Obituaries

John R. Osborne, 80, of 24 Hedgehog Hollow, Bradford, PA passed away Tuesday, December 5th, 2023, at the Bradford Regional Medical Center. 

Born June 4th, 1943, in Bradford Hospital, he was a son of the late J. Russell and Elizabeth W. (Carr) Osborne.

A 1961 graduate of Bradford Area High School, he went on to receive a bachelor’s degree in history from High Point University. He always remembered his time at High Point fondly joined by childhood friends and fellow alumni Chuck Schreiber and Richard McDowell.

On October 28, 1968, in Elkton MD, he married Rosemary (Harris) Osborne who survives. 

After a brief employment with the Public Assistance Office, John joined the Pennsylvania National Guard. While serving his country, he was employed at the family owned W. R. Case & Sons and ultimately Vice President of Manufacturing for the cutlery company his Great Uncle Russ founded. He later became a small business owner himself of office supplies and culminating in Copy Connection, a Xerox sales franchise he co-owned with his lifetime friend Colin Heron.

John L. “Jack” Green, 86, of Warren, PA, died on Wednesday, December 6, 2023, in Warren General Hospital.

Family will receive friends from 2:00 to 4:00 pm Monday, December 11, 2023, at the Donald E. Lewis Funeral Home Inc., 304 East St. Warren, PA. Funeral services will follow at 4:00 pm in the funeral home.

A complete obituary will be published when it’s available.

The family and friends of Thomas A. Krise, Sr. are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial to be celebrated in the St. Boniface Church on Saturday, December 9, 2023 at 10:00AM with Rev. Kevin Holland, Pastor, officiating.  Burial will follow in Ridge Cemetery in Kersey.

Joyce E. Cherry, 92, of 706 Bridge Street Johnsonburg, PA passed away early Tuesday afternoon, December 5, 2023 at Penn Highlands-Dubois following a short illness.

She was born on April 22, 1931 in Johnsonburg, a daughter to the late Chet and Florence Nagle Nortum. On November 26, 1949, she married Joseph A. Cherry and he survives. 

A lifelong resident of Johnsonburg, Joyce was 1948 graduate of Johnsonburg High School and was a member of St. John Lutheran Church. Joyce loved spending time with her family and tending her flower and vegetable gardens. She and her husband loved to travel and play cards. She was an excellent bowler and loved to do crossword puzzles and enjoyed reading her family bible.

Joyce had worked at Sylvania in Emporium for 15 years and she, along with her husband, owned and operated the Blue Jay Bar and Grill in Johnsonburg for 10 years.  

Constance S. “Connie” Kandare, 63, of Big Run, formerly of Smethport, PA passed away Sunday (Dec. 3, 2023) at her home.

She was born July 25, 1960, to the late Norman and Lucille (Brady) Seger in Punxsutawney.

Connie was a graduate of Port Allegany High School in 1978. Connie owned the Cottage House Restaurant in Smethport. She mainly worked in the restaurant industry most of her life. Connie moved to Big Run in 2012 to be closer to family.

Daniel Howard, 71, of Route 6 west of Mt. Jewett, PA passed away Monday morning (Dec. 4) at his residence.  

Born Dec. 6, 1951 in Kane, he is the son of the late Joseph and Dorothy (Degolier) Howard.  On Nov. 8, 1986, in Ridgway, he married Cheryl Mecca, who survives.

Dan graduated from Smethport High School and worked as a Plant Manager at Howes Leather, until it’s closing.  He then worked for Brian Sees.  He was also a Life Member of the Mt. Jewett Volunteer Fire Dept.

Rita Ann Kent, 79, of 5 Fullerton Road, Derrick City, PA passed away Tuesday, December 5, 2023, at Bradford Ecumenical Home.

Born January 30, 1944, in Jamestown, NY, she was a daughter of the late James and Kathrine (Cardy) DeMuro.

Rita was a 1962 graduate of Jamestown High School and later graduated from Continental Beauty School in Olean, NY.

On May 11, 1966, in Jamestown NY, she married Ronald E. Kent who survives.

Rita was a beautician for many years, and prior to her retirement worked as a CNA at the Bradford Ecumenical Home.

Murray M. Peterson, 79, of Russell, PA., died at his residence, Monday evening, December 4, 2023. 

Visitation hours will be held on Saturday, December 9, 2023 From 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 P.M. at the Donald E. Lewis Funeral Home, Inc., Warren, PA. 

A complete obituary will be announced when available.

BOLIVAR – Winifred F. Barber, also know as “Winnie,” passed away Friday (Dec. 1, 2023) at the age of 85, in Rochester.

She was born July 31, 1938, in Olean, to the late Junior and Loretta Gowan.

Winnie was a loving wife, mother and grandmother, and she will be deeply missed by her family and friends.

Winnie was a graduate of Olean High School and later worked for Service Stores/Park and Shop. She also had a career as a teacher’s aide at Allegany/Cattaraugus County BOCES.

Winnie was a faithful prayer warrior and had a passion for serving in her local church. She worshiped at the First Day Baptist Church in Richburg and later at Grace Baptist Church in Marion.

Port Allegany – A Celebration of life for Karen A. Benjamin, 67, of Port Allegany, who passed away Friday (November 17, 2023) will be held on Saturday, December 9, 2023 at the  Port Allegany Moose Club, Pearl St, Port Allegany from 1pm till 4pm.                   

Arrangements are under the direction of the Hartle-Tarbox Funeral Homes, Inc., Port Allegany.

Paul H. Blank, 79, of 216 Rose Street, Johnsonburg, and formerly of St. Marys, Punxsutawney and McKeesport, died Friday morning, December 1, 2023 at Penn Highlands-Elk, St. Marys, PA. 

Paul was born on January 17, 1944 and was originally from McKeesport, PA.  Paul was a Vietnam War Army Vet serving as a Tech Sergeant-Medic with the 2nd Evac Hospital MAH MEDDAC. For his service he received the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm, 5 Overseas Bars, Good Conduct Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal with Device, Army Commendation Medal, Sharpshooter Badge with Carbine Bar, Expert Badge with Automatic Rifle Bar and Marksman Badge with Rifle Bar. 

Charles M. NELSON, 87, of Genesee, PA, died Monday, December 4, 2023 in his home.  

Born June 29, 1936, in Bingham Twp., he was the son of Charles B. and Mary M. Easton Nelson.  On November 9, 1956, in Potter Brook, he married the former Laura J. Carpenter, who survives.  

A 1953 graduate of Genesee High School, he attended trade school in Olean, NY.  He was employed by Rankin Dairy in Westfield, Ingersoll-Rand in Painted Post, Downer’s Hardware and Building Supply in Genesee for 13 years, Dresser-Rand in Wellsville for 12 years, Cass Appliance in Ulysses for several years, self-employed technician for ten years, and served as Bingham Township Tax Collector for 24 years, retiring at age 85.  

He served as Bingham Township Supervisor for 22 years and treasurer of North Bingham Cemetery since 1982.  He owned and operated Charles B. Nelson Sons Maple with his brother, Don.  

Maxine A. WATTER, 80, of Wellsville, NY, died Sunday, December 3, 2023 at Manor Hills Assisted Living, Wellsville. 

Born April 12, 1943, in Huntington, Long Island, she was the daughter of Max and Tillie Urban Watter.  A 1961 graduate of Half Hollow Hills High School in Long Island, she earned her BA in Art and English from Elmira College, MS in Art Education from Syracuse University, MFA and CAS in Synesthetic Education from Syracuse University, and MFA in Art from Marywood College in Scranton, PA. 

Victor A. “Vic” Wentworth, 91, of 800 West Washington Street, Bradford, PA passed away Saturday, December 2, 2023, at his home surrounded by his family. 

Born on May 31, 1932, in Duke Center, he was a son of the late Glenn and Vivian (Barnes) Wentworth.

Vic graduated from Bradford Area High School in 1952. On January 5, 1953, he enlisted in the United States Army. He served during the Korean War and was honorably discharged January 4, 1955.

Vic worked many years as a food representative for several food service companies in the western New York and western Pennsylvania area.

Rose A. Kline, 89, passed away on Saturday, December 2, 2023 at Penn Highlands DuBois following a short illness.

She was born on October 1, 1934 in Brooklyn, NY, a daughter of the Isaac Gusmerotti and Marie Bleggi Gusmerotti.

On December 18, 1971, she married the late Richard Kline, who preceded her in death in 2000. Together they shared nearly 30 years of marriage.

Rose was a graduate of Horton High School and a member of Queen of the World Church. Rose enjoyed cooking and reading. To Rose, her family was her life and she delighted in caring for them. Always ready to help with her grandchildren, she loved nothing more than watching her grandkids grow. She will be remembered as a loving wife, mother, and “Nona”.

Rose is survived by two sons; James Klein and his wife Cindy of St. Marys, and Donald Klein and his wife Liz of Weedville; and by her 8 beloved grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. She is also survived by one sister; Yolanda Corradi of Erie, and by numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents and her husband, Rose was preceded in death by her son; Gary R. Klein, who preceded her in death Nov. 2, 2023, by two brothers; James and William Gusmerotti, and by two sisters; Dolores Swanson and Helen Weis.

A Mass of Christian Burial for Rose A. Kline will be celebrated on Wednesday, December 6, 2023 at 10:00 AM at Queen of the World Church, 134 Queens Road, St. Marys, PA 15857 with Fr. Jeffery Noble, Pastor, as celebrant.
Burial will follow in Parklawn Memorial Gardens.

Matthew Scott Leach, 44, of Russell, PA, died peacefully of natural causes, with his family by his side, on Saturday, December 2, 2023. 

Matt was born November 30, 1979, in New Martinsville, WV.  He was the son of Donald R. and Janet Rogerson Leach of New Martinsville, WV.  He was a graduate of Magnolia High School in New Martinsville, WV, and he earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Chemical Engineering with a minor in Chemistry from West Virginia Institute of Technology, Montgomery WV. 

Matthew was employed by Veolia Environmental Services as account manager working primarily at United Refinery Company in Warren, PA.

Eugene M. Barr, Sr., 80, of DuBois, PA passed away on Sunday, December 3, 2023 at Penn Highlands Jefferson Manor, Brookville.

He was born on April 9, 1943 in Syracuse, NY, a son of the late Clare and Christine Thomas Barr.

On May 10, 1968 in Emporium, he married Lois R. Harrington who preceded him in death on July 23, 2015.

Eugene was a member of the Oasis Ministries, DuBois.  He enjoyed watching auto races and football and he loved listening to Elvis Pressley music.

James C. Loy II             “beloved son and nephew”

James C. “Jamie” Loy II, 43, a lifelong resident of Sweden Hill, passed away with his loving mother by his side on Friday, December 1, 2023, in Sena Kean Manor, Smethport, after a short illness.

Born on Friday, August 22, 1980 in Coudersport, he was a son of James C. Sr. and Patricia L. Boden Loy.

Jamie was a graduate of Coudersport High School.  He was an avid reader who thoroughly enjoyed studying and researching many matters in which he was interested.  He spent his entire life on Sweden Hill, greatly enjoying the outdoors. Along with his late father, he spent countless hours walking and enjoying nature on the family farm.

Matthew S. Leach, 44, of Russell, PA., died peacefully Saturday, December 2, 2023 with his family at his bedside. 

Friends may call on Wednesday, December 6, 2023, from 4 to 7 P.M. at the Donald E. Lewis Funeral Home, Inc., 304 East Street, Warren, PA.  A complete obituary will be announced on Tuesday.

Delores T. “Toots” Frey passed away peacefully at 88 ½ years old (she was very proud of the ½ of the year) Saturday, December 2, 2023 at Pinecrest Manor Nursing Home.

She was born May 3, 1935, in St. Marys, daughter of the late Leo and Agnes Krieg Samick.  She was a lifelong resident of the area, formerly resided on South Michael Road, and was a graduate of St. Marys High School, Class of 1953.  She was employed as an advertising sales representative for the Lake Shore Visitor and WKBI.

On September 15, 1956 in Queen of the World Church, she married Joseph R. Frey, who preceded her in death on January 28, 2015.

Michael D. Moscato, 52, of Emporium, PA passed away at Penn Highlands DuBois, DuBois, PA on Saturday (December 2, 2023).

He was born March 22, 1971 in Coudersport, PA a son of William Moscato, Emporium and the late Phyllis Agliardo Moscato.

Mike graduated from Cameron County High School. He worked for DiNardo Paving Company in Johnsonburg for many years and most recently he worked for the Emporium borough street crew. He was a member of the VFW, Moose and the Christabelle Clubs. He enjoyed his yearly trips to the Gettysburg battlefield, working on automobiles and animals.

Robert L. BOWMAN, 83, of Coudersport, PA, formerly of New Holland, passed away Friday, December 1, 2023, surrounded by his loving family at UPMC Cole following a valiant battle with cancer.

Born October 3, 1940, in New Holland, he was the son of Aaron R. and Edna M. Weaver Bowman. He is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Monica F. (Deller).

He was a devoted and loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who cared deeply for all his family. He was employed as a clerk for ten years and then a rural carrier for 25 years by the U.S. Postal Service in Lancaster County.

After retiring and relocating to Potter County, he delivered vehicles for Adelphia Communications throughout the country. Calling Potter County home for more than 25 years, Bob and Monica have been thoughtful stewards of “God’s Country” by maintaining roadsides and nature trails.

Bob was an active member of St. Eulalia Catholic Church, Coudersport, assisting in the kitchen, caring for church grounds as a “yard bird” and serving as a Eucharistic Minister for residents at a local nursing facility. He also compassionately served others by providing transportation for Potter County Human Services. In Lancaster County, he volunteered many years at Our Lady Of Lourdes Catholic Church and as a Scout Leader for the Boy Scouts of America.

SWEDEN HILL, PA—James C. “Jamie” Loy II, 43, a lifelong resident of Sweden Hill, passed away with his loving mother by his side on Friday, December 1, 2023, in Sena Kean Manor, Smethport, after a short illness.

Jamie’s mother entrusted his care and cremation arrangements to Kevin J. Dusenbury, funeral director/owner of the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse.

A complete obituary will follow.

Julia Joanne Fishkin, 85, of 12 Valleybrook Dr., Bradford, passed away peacefully at her home on Saturday, December 2, 2023; surrounded by her family.

She was born on June 8, 1938 in Jamestown, NY, a daughter of the late James “Jim” and Amy Kathryn Cardy DeMuro.

She was a 1956 graduate of the Jamestown High School.

On November 17, 1956 she married Richard J. Fishkin; they later divorced in 2003.

Michael S. PROCTOR, 57, of Galeton, PA, died Friday, December 1, 2023 in his daughter’s home in Coudersport.  

Born July 5, 1966, in Coudersport, he was the son of Richard and Cindy Lou Huggler Proctor.  A graduate of Galeton Area High School, he was employed by Patterson Lumber for many years.  Mike was known for being a hard worker and a caring person.  His family was his pride and joy.  He loved being with family and friends.  

Steven Eugene Cochran of Hopewell, Va. was promoted to heaven on Sunday, November 26, 2023 in his home with family around him.

Survivors include his wife, Sandra J. Cochran; his sons, Steven J. Cochran and Tony E. Cochran (Johnie); his daughters, Kera M. Kellogg and Anna J. Garst (Casey); his grandchildren, Natasha Cochran, Joseph Flahart, Madison Hoyt, Travion Cochran, Braedyn Gilormini and Haven Garst; his brothers, Thomas Cochran (Karen), Frederick Cochran (Tracy) and Joseph Cochran (Angela); and his sister, Jean Mealy (Clayton).

Steven was preceded in death by his brother, Duncan Cochran; parents Frederick Cochran (Mabel) and his adopted son, William Beason.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 3 p.m. on Saturday, January 6 at the VFW Post 637 Banquet room in Hopewell, Va and the Kelley Reunion.

Nancy L. Mckee, 81, of Warren, PA went home to be with the Lord, on Thursday, November 30, 2023, at the John and Orpha Blair Hospice House, Warren, PA.

She was born on April 21, 1942, in Coudersport, PA, the daughter of the late Harry Kellogg and Isabella (Arnold) Kellogg. Nancy had resided in Warren, PA since 1983 and lived in Sugar Grove, PA, before.

Nancy was raised by her aunt and uncle, Irvin “Bucky” and Cecil Chandler. She was a graduate of Youngsville High School, Class of 1960. Nancy was a graduate of Nursing from Jamestown Community College, and she received a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Fredonia.

Nancy was employed with Warren General Hospital, then with First American Healthcare as an administrator, and retired from Warren State Hospital in 2004.

July 25, 1936 – Nov. 28, 2023 JEFFERSON, IA — Dean G. Scalfaro, 87, recently of Grand Junction, IA, passed away on Tuesday, November 28, 2023, at the Greene County Medical Center in Jefferson, IA. A visitation was held Friday, December 1, 2023 at the Slininger-Schroeder Funeral Home in Jefferson, with a Celebration of Life planned for a later date.

Dean was born July 25, 1936 in Olean NY the son of Philip “Pat” and Beulah (Hatch) Scalfaro. Dean was influenced by and especially close to his grandfather Dominick “Grandpa Nick” Scalfaro and his grandmother Lena “Grandma Lena” Martin. All preceded him in passing.

He was a 1955 graduate of Otto Eldred High School, Eldred PA. Dean began working as a welder for Dresser Clark in Olean NY in 1956. He had a keen interest in utilizing his self-taught mechanical skills and expanding his career with Dresser and after several years was recruited by the Service Department to become an Erecting Superintendent, traveling both domestically and the world overseeing the installation of complex reciprocating engine compressors as well as centrifugal compressors and complimentary equipment. Dean was eventually promoted to lead the Franklin Park IL mid-west service office and went on to oversee service operations in Abu Dhabi and Philadelphia for the company. Dean was instrumental in developing the highly successful Contract Maintenance Group and retired from Dresser Rand, a joint venture formed by Dresser Clark and Ingersoll Rand, after 50+ dedicated years of service. Dean instilled his exemplary work ethic in all his children.

John H. Bixler, Jr., 84, of Emporium, PA passed away at Elk Haven Nursing Home, St. Marys, PA on Thursday evening (November 30, 2023).

He was born January 6, 1939 in St. Marys, PA a son of the late John H. and Dorothy McDonald Bixler.

John graduated from Cameron County High School. He served in the US Army during Vietnam. After serving in the Army he graduated from Indiana State Teachers College in Indiana, PA where he earned a teaching degree. He went on to teach music at Union School District in Rimersburg for over 30 years. Years ago he enjoyed playing tennis, baseball and target shooting as he was a sharpshooter. He liked animals, especially his cats and dogs.

John G. Fedorko, 90, a resident of Silver Creek Terrace and formerly of 128 Laurel Lane, Kersey, PA passed away unexpectedly Wednesday, November 29, 2023 at Penn Highlands Elk.

He was born February 5, 1933 in Johnsonburg, son of the late Stephan and Anna Paralic Fedorko.  He was a lifelong resident of the area and a graduate of Johnsonburg High School, Class of 1950.

On October 5, 1957 in St. Mary’s Catholic Church, John married Doris C. Dippold, who preceded him in death on July 15, 1997.