Obituaries

Caroline S. Smith, 58, of Smethport, PA passed away Thursday (May 2, 2024) at her residence.

On March 14, 1966, a Yankees fan was born, named Caroline Sakin to her parents Edna and Howard Sakin of Scarsdale, NY.  Her love for the Yankees permeated most every aspect of her life.  So, when Caroline met Kent W. Smith, while attending Mitchell College in New London, CT, it was only natural that one of their first dates was to see the Yankees play at Yankee Stadium.   On the way, they got lost, and ended up in the wrong section of the bleachers.  Suddenly, there was a great commotion and Caroline and Kent realized that a ball — a home run ball — was coming right their way!  It was Ricky Henderson’s 32nd lead-off home run ball and Kent picked it up as they made their way to their seat.  It was the beginning of a long and happy relationship.  They celebrated their 30th anniversary in March this year.

Caroline and Kent dated 9 years before marrying on 3/5/1994 in Scarsdale, NY.  They settled in Hillsdale, NJ, where they frequently had friends over for get together.  Caroline worked at a day care and later at Cherry Lawn Farmers Market.  They spent their evenings watching the Yankees every chance they could.  In 2008, Caroline fulfilled a dream by watching the World Series with Yogi Berra and meeting him in person.

Ted A. Mackey, 80, of 822 Bolivar Drive, Bradford, PA passed away Tuesday, April 30, 2024, at the Pavillion @ BRMC, with his loving daughters by his side.

Born August 5, 1943, in Bradford, he was a son of the late Arthur H. and Lucy E. (Himes) Mackey. He was a 1962  graduate of Bradford High School.

Ted was employed as a machinist at Dresser Manufacturing in Bradford for over 37 years, he retired in 2012.

Alice J. “A.J.” Stiles              

COUDERSPORT, PA—Alice J. “A.J.” Stiles, 84, a lifelong resident of Coudersport, passed away with her loving family by her side on Thursday, May 2, 2024, in UPMC Cole, Coudersport, after a short illness.

Funeral arrangements, entrusted to the care of  Kevin J. Dusenbury, funeral director/owner of the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse, are incomplete and will be announced with a full obituary.

Ruth E. Irwin, 100, a resident of the Lutheran Home at Kane and formerly of 959 Hickory Road, St. Marys, PA passed away Saturday, May 4, 2024, at the Lutheran Home.

She was born July 8, 1923, in St. Marys, daughter of the late Gregory and Margaret Nissel Schlimm.  She was a graduate of Central Catholic High School, Class of 1941.  Ruth went on to earn her nursing degree and was a devoted nurse throughout her lifetime.

On September 19, 1970, in St. Catherine’s Church in Martinez, CA, Ruth married the late John J. Irwin, who preceded her in death on May 16, 2012.  She and John made their homes in Buffalo and California before moving back to St. Marys in 2002. 

David A. KINNICUTT, 62, of Wellsville, NY, died Monday, April 29, 2024 in his home.  

Born June 20, 1961, in Rome, he was the son of Donald and Cora Jackson Kinnicutt.  He was a graduate of Scio Central School and attended Alfred State College. 

He was employed as a truck driver by numerous companies.  David enjoyed riding his motorcycle and spending time with his family.  

Smethport – Ronald C. Zetwick, 76, of Smethport, PA passed away suddenly Thursday (May 2, 2024) at his home.

Arrangements are incomplete and will be announced by the Hartle-Tarbox Funeral Homes, Inc., Smethport.

Jay E. Wolfer:  Loving Husband, Father, Brother

Jay E. Wolfer, 61, of 8468 Glen Rd., Rushford, NY passed away Thursday, May 2, 2024 at home.

Born on July 4, 1962, in Springville, he was a son of Junior Edward and Geraldine Frances Obrachta Wolfer.  On October 20, 1991, in Rushford, he married the former Audrey A. Pomeroy who survives.

Jay was raised on a farm and enjoyed doing farm work when he was younger.  Later he worked as a tree trimmer for several area businesses, but then owned and operated his own business Wolfer’s Tree Service until his retirement.

Smethport–Caroline S. Smith, 58, of Smethport, PA passed away Thursday, May 2, 2024 at home.

Arrangements are incomplete and will be announced by Hartle-Tarbox Funeral Homes, Inc., Smethport.

Smethport – Ronald E. Appleby, 78, of Port Allegany, PA passed away Thursday (May 2, 2024) at Lakeview Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center, Smethport.

Arrangements will be announced by the Hartle-Tarbox Funeral Homes, Inc., Smethport.

Mary E. “Missy” Shirey, 64, of Evergreen Drive, Ridgway, PA died on Wednesday, May 1, 2024, at Allegheny General Hospital after a lengthy illness.

She was born on June 10, 1959, the daughter of the late Paul and Audrey Bradley Shirey.

Missy was Christian by faith, attending St. Leos Church and Trinity United Methodist Church. She graduated from Ridgway High School Class of 1977 and attended Edinboro University. Missy led a life filled with love, compassion, and dedication to her family and community. She touched the lives of many through her work and numerous contributions. Missy worked for many years at Dickenson Center, New Light, and Community Links.

In addition to her family, Missy was deeply involved in various community organizations. She served on the CAPSEA Board of Directors, where she worked to support and advocate for those in need. She was also a past Board member of the Ridgway Ambulance and served as an Assistant Manager of the Elk County/ Cameron County Special Olympics, demonstrating her commitment to helping others and making a difference in the world. She had a passion for baking and was known for making the best cakes with her secret peanut butter frosting.

Betty Lou Mack, age 79, of Middlebury Center, PA passed away on Saturday, April 27, 2024.

Born September 17, 1944 in Potter Brook, she was the daughter of the late Leroy K. and Vivian C. (Clark) Stermer.

Betty obtained her Masters Degree in Education from Mansfield University. She married Richard P. Mack and they shared 26 years together until his passing in November 1996.

Betty was a long time member of the DAR, Delegate to United Methodist Conference and a member of the Keeneyville United Methodist Church. She liked reading, word games, square dancing, playing dominoes, making jams and jellies, bird watching, gardening and tending to her house plants. She enjoyed going to church, traveling, helping people, raising her children and spending time with family.

Cora E. Flynn, age 72, of Elkland, PA passed away on Friday, April 26, 2024 at Robert Packer Hospital in Sayre. Born July 20, 1951 in Sabinsville, she was the daughter of the late Archie and Evelyn (Carmen) Moon. Cora married Marvin G. Flynn, Sr. and they shared 52 years together.

She worked for the Osceola Big M for many years, was a member of the TOPS and the Cowanesque Valley Rod and Gun Club. Cora loved playing cards, poker and Bingo. She enjoyed fishing and being a grandmother.

Larry S. JAMES, 74, of Andrews Settlement, PA, died Wednesday, May 1, 2024 in his home. 

 Born July 18, 1949, in Coudersport, he was the son of Truman H. and Corrine E. Chilson James.  On November 27, 1982, in Ulysses, he married Gina M. Calcote, who survives.  

A 1967 graduate of Northern Potter High School, he was employed by CNG / Dominion for 35 years.  Larry was a member of Potter County Anglers Club.  

Lukas A. “Luke” Slosser, 23, passed away on Monday, April 29, 2024, in Sigel, PA.

He was born on September 9, 2000 in Clarion, PA, the son of Paul and Judith Atwell Slosser.

Luke attended Venango Regional Vo-Tech in Oil City and was employed as an Operations Engineer for Catalyst Energy. He had a passion for all things mechanical, a true gear-head who loved Dodge Cummins diesel trucks, and never passing up the chance to buy and fix up a truck.

An avid outdoorsman, Luke could often be found hunting and fishing. With a great love for motocross, Luke always reveled in the thrill of riding dirt bikes and spending the day with friends on the track. Luke also found solace on the farm, nurturing a special bond with animals and spending time there with his parents.

A devoted father, Luke cherished his son, Lane, who was his pride and joy. His bond with his family was unwavering and filled with love. Luke’s loyalty extended to his faithful companion, his dog Ellie, who shared in his adventures and provided him with endless joy. Luke always cheered on the underdog, had the biggest heart, and was a friend to all. He will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

In addition to his loving parents, Paul and Judy Slosser, he is survived by his beloved son; Lane Slosser, and by his maternal grandmother; Dorothy Campbell Atwell of Reading, MA. He is also survived by two aunts; Susan (Ronnie) Colburne and Linda (Bruce) Goodwin, both of North Reading, MA, and by two uncles; Robert (Patty) Slosser and David Slosser, both of Bessemer, PA, as well as by numerous cousins and good friends.

Luke was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents; Robert and Phylis Snyder Slosser and by his maternal grandfather; Richard Atwell.

A Memorial Service for Lukas A. Slosser is being planned and will be announced at a later date.

Memorial Contributions may be made to benefit Lane at Lukas A. “Luke” Slosser, 23, http://Lukas A. “Luke” Slosser, 23,

Lynch-Green Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 151 N. Michael Street, St. Marys, PA 15857 is handling the arrangements and online condolences may be offered to the family at www.lynchgreenfuneralhome.com

Shirley J. McGonnell, 89, of 25 Mark Street, St. Marys, PA passed away Thursday, May 2, 2024, at Penn Highlands Elk Hospital.

She was born May 26, 1934 in Willimantic, CT to the late Carl and Margaret Anderson Warren.  She was a graduate of Indiana High School, Class of 1951 and continued her education graduating from Indiana State Teacher’s College Class, of 1955.  She started her teaching career in Port Allegany in 1955 and continued teaching for over 35 years.  With the majority spent teaching kindergarten and 2^nd grade at South St. Marys Street Elementary, she continued to volunteer there for many years after her retirement.

Shirley married the love of her life, the late James A. McGonnell on June 1, 1957 in St. Gabriel’s Church in Port Allegheny.  Jim and Shirley were married for over 62 years. Jim preceded her in death on June 17, 2019.

Mary “Missy” Shirey, 64, of Evergreen Drive, Ridgway, PA died on Wednesday, May 1, 2024, at Allegheny General Hospital.

Funeral arrangements are incomplete and under the direction of Krise Funeral Homes and Cremation Services.

Joseph P. “Moe” Cardoni, 87, of 3377 Long Level Rd., Johnsonburg, PA passed away peacefully with his family by his side, late Tuesday evening, April 30, 2024, at his residence following a lengthy illness.

He was born in Johnsonburg on March 13, 1937, a son to the late Nicholas and Mary Cherry Cardoni. He married Evelyn Mannella, she passed January 5, 1968. On September 26, 1970, in Holy Rosary Church he married Dorothy E. “Dot” Kennedy. She passed October 6, 2021. 

A lifelong resident of Johnsonburg, Moe attended Johnsonburg High School. He was a member of Holy Rosary Church and the Prince of Piedmont Club. Moe loved to be around his family and enjoyed his Sunday dinners. He was an avid gardener, canner and loved to cook. He also loved to go fishing and hunting. 

A Veteran of the US Air Force, Moe served as an Airman First Class, aircraft mechanic, with 393rdBomb Squadron from 1954 to 1958.

In 1998, Moe retired from Carbon Graphite in St. Marys after over 50 years of service. After retirement, he worked for several years at the St. Marys WalMart.

Rev. Peter A. DeVantier, age 82, of Wellsboro, PA, died on Tuesday, April 30, 2024.  He was born on January 1, 1942 in Sanborn, NY a son of the late Alfred and Martha (Williams) DeVantier and was married to the late Judith A. (Simson) DeVantier for 60 years.  

He attended St. James Lutheran Elementary School, Betgholz, NY, and Starpoint Central High School, Lockport, NY.   Pete graduated from Buffalo State College with a Master of Education Degree.   

 He was an art teacher for 23 years at the North Tonawanda High School.  After he retired from teaching, he received his Master of Divinity Degree from Concordia Seminary.  He was the pastor of the Trinity Lutheran Church, Wellsboro, PA for 27 years. 

Pete was a member of the Wellsboro Lions Club, the Wellsboro Men’s Chorus and was the Chaplain for the Wellsboro Fire Department for many years.  He was an avid gardener, artist and birdwatcher. 

Pastor Pete is survived by a son: Brian (Phil Ammons) DeVantier of CT, daughters: Kim (Kerry) Taylor of North Tonawanda, NY, Heather (David) Benedict of Wellsboro, PA, Jennifer Pinto of Westchester, NY, brother: Fredric (Pam) DeVantier of Sanborn, NY, sister-in-law: Jacqueline Rollison of Lancaster, NY, 13 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren. 

A viewing will be held on Saturday, May 4, 2024 from 9 to 11 am at the Trinity Lutheran Church, Wellsboro, PA.  A funeral service will follow at 11:00 am with Pastor Joseph Weatherell and Pastor Barry Keurulainen officiating.  Interment will be in the Shumway Hill Cemetery, Wellsboro, PA. 

Memorial donations may be made to the Trinity Lutheran School, 53 West Ave., Wellsboro, PA 16901.  Arrangements are entrusted to the Carleton Funeral Home, Inc. www.carletonfh.com Wellsboro, PA

Smethport – Eleanor Mary Montgomery, 78, of Smethport, PA passed away Saturday (February 10, 2024) at Sena Kean Manor, Smethport.

A memorial service will be held on May 4, 2024 at 11AM in the Trinity Lutheran Church of Smethport. Burial with graveside committal will be in Bells Run Cemetery, Shinglehouse.

Arrangements were under the direction of the Hartle-Tarbox Funeral Homes, Inc., Smethport.

Richard K. Michuck, affectionately known as Rat, of 34 Carr Lane, St. Marys, PA passed away at the age of 69, following a lengthy illness Tuesday, April 30, 2024 at Penn Highlands DuBois with his children by his side.

He was born June 13, 1954, son of Jean Weidow Wise and the late Joseph Michuck, II.  He was a lifelong resident of the area, attended St. Marys schools, retired from Powder Metal Products, and was a committed member of the Crystal Fire Department for 30 years, where he was a deputy fire chief for some of those years.

Larry S. JAMES, 74, of Andrews Settlement, PA, died Wednesday, May 1, 2024 in his home.  

Arrangements will be announced by Olney-Foust Funeral Homes & Crematory, Ulysses, PA.  

Online condolences may be expressed at www.olneyfoust.com.

Louise E. MERRELL, 65, of Cuba, NY, went to be with the Lord on Tuesday, April 30, 2024 in her home. 

Born December 28, 1958, in Cuba, she was the daughter of Roswell H. and Ethel Mae Sprague Gowdy.  On September 25, 1982, in Avon, she married George W. Merrell, who survives. 

A graduate of Belmont Central School, she was a stay-at-home mother.  Her children and grandchildren were her world and she loved spending every minute she could with them.  Louise enjoyed walking and spending time outside, and loved roosters.  

Thomas R. Miller, Jr., 73, of 187 West Washington Street, Bradford, passed away Monday, April 29, 2024, at UPMC Hamot.

Born October 30, 1950, in Buffalo, he was a son of the late Thomas “Dick” Miller Sr. and Laura V. (Iverson) Miller. He moved to Bradford with his mother and brother in 1960.  He was a 1969 graduate from Bradford High School.

In his younger years, Tommy was active in the Special Olympics, excelling in bowling, swimming, and softball.  Tommy moved into residential housing through Evergreen Elm in April of 1987.  For the past couple of decades, he was a member of the Kiwanis Aktion Club, where he was involved in various service projects. 

                   Paul Perri

Paul M. Perri, avid outdoorsman and life-long resident of Warren, PA., died unexpectedly on Tuesday, April 30, 2024, at the age of 63. Paul was born August 9, 1960, to Frank and Nancy Schultz Perri.  He graduated from Warren Area High School in 1978 and joined the U.S. Marine Corps.  He worked as a contractor building and remodeling houses, prior to retiring.

Tia L. Dyne, 33, of Yarnell St., Kane, PA passed away Friday, April 26, 2024, at UPMC-Kane.  Born Sept. 27, 1990, in St. Marys, she is the daughter of Timothy (Emily) Dyne and Shelly (Joe Ferranto) Dyne.

Tia was the epitome of fun-loving, the life of every gathering, and the heartbeat of countless joyful moments. Her infectious laughter and energy lit up every room she entered, making her a cherished friend to so many.  Tia had an impact on everyone she encountered. She had the biggest heart and always put others first. She had a unique ability to make others feel seen and loved, even amidst her own struggles.

She enjoyed spending time with her family and oftentimes was the glue that held them together. A true nurturer at heart,  Tia was devoted to all her nieces and nephews, as well as her younger sister and brother. She showered them with love and affection and left them with many cherished memories.

In addition to the people in her life, Tia cherished her dogs. She had an immense love for animals and dedicated much time to rescuing and nurturing them.

Duane H. Baumgarner

Duane H. Baumgarner, 73, of Skinner Creek Rd., Port Allegany, PA passed away Saturday, April 27, 2024, in his home, surrounded by his family.

     Born June 28, 1950, in Coudersport, he was a son of David C. and Ava D. Lucas Baumgarner.  On Oct. 2, 1968, in Rochester, NY, he married Rebecca J. VanSickle, who survives. They were married 55 years.

    Duane was a lifetime resident of the area and a graduate of Port Allegany High School, class of 1968, and later from the Dubois Business College.

    Duane worked in Port Allegany at the Port Allegany Community Hospital from 1975 to 1983 as controller. In 1983 he was vice president of PA Hospital Systems where he was responsible for developing computerized hospital financial systems. He was a member of the PAHS School Board in the 80s until his move to S. Carolina where he took a position as Financial Coordinator at Baptist Medical Center, a 350 bed Hospital in the capitol city of Columbia. He worked there from 1987 to 1998 while also running his own company Provision Healthcare Systems, where he designed and programmed SBS physician billing and collection system. From 1998 until 2002 he owned Reimbursement Software Systems Inc and worked with American Claims Expeditors as a Medicare reimbursement consultant.

     He was a member of the Free Methodist Church of Port Allegany, where he always taught Sunday school. He was passionate about his faith and loved his Lord. He enjoyed witnessing and scientific/theological debating. 

    Music was an important part of his life where he enjoyed playing drums in a band, The Changing Times, the trombone, trumpet, and the harmonica. He loved his family above all else and was a devoted husband arguably the best father and friend ever.

Pamela J Medeiros (January 25, 1955-April 27, 2024) 

Loving mother, Grandmother (affectionately called Getti), Life Partner, sister, and friend.  

Born in Olean New York on January 25, 1955 at St. Francis Hospital to parents George Nelson Shields and Geneva Shields.

Pamela was born and raised in Eldred, Pa. She was an LPN for 40+ years. She worked at the Medical Group in Olean, NY, Charles Cole Medical Group in Eldred, PA and The Bradford Pavilion.

Thelma R. SMITH, 73, of Westfield, PA, died Thursday, April 25, 2024 in her home.  

A gathering to celebrate Thelma’s life will be held Thursday, May 2, 2024 at Moon’s Big Red Barn, 453 Rowley Road, Ulysses, PA from 1:00 – 4:00 PM, with a service at 1:30 PM.  

Gordon Claude GRAVES, 85, of Mechanicsburg, PA, formerly of Ulysses, PA died Sunday, April 28, 2024 at his daughter’s home.  Born May 5,1938 in Whitesville, NY, he was the son of Clayton Lowell and Madge Fillmore Graves.  He attended Harrison Valley School and Northern Potter High School.  On December 31, 1957, in the Ulysses Free Methodist Church, he married Charlotte M. Moore, who predeceased him in September, 22, 2020.  

Gordon spent most of his younger years working with his family on the farm and driving truck.  For several years he operated Gordon Graves Trucking which involved a lot of feed hauling for Agway out of Buffalo.  In his later years, he worked driving for Smith’s Transfer and Fed Ex Custom Critical which took him and Charlotte all over the country.  In his final years, he enjoyed driving school bus and school van for Miller and Sons.  He loved bribing all of the kids on his bus with candy to keep them occupied.  

Judith Ann “Judy” BRAYMILLER, nee Evans, 84, of Riverside Drive, Wellsville, NY, died in her sleep at home on January 10, 2024.  

Friends may call at OLNEY-FOUST Funeral Homes & Cremation, Crowell Chapel, Wellsville, on Tuesday, April 30, 2024 from 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM, with a Memorial Service following at 1:00 PM.  Burial will be in Fairlawn Cemetery, Scio.

Cremation was at OLNEY-FOUST Private Crematory.  Memorials may be made to Alzheimer’s Association of Western New York at www.alz.org/wny or SPCA serving Allegany County at www.spcaallegany.org.  Arrangements are under the direction of Olney-Foust Funeral Homes & Cremation, Crowell Chapel, 296 North Main Street, Wellsville.  Online condolences may be expressed at www.wellsvillefuneralhome.com.