Obituaries

Richard G. “Hinder” Geitner, 58, of S. Michael Road, St. Marys, PA passed away on Saturday, January 27, 2024, at Allegheny General Hospital in Pittsburgh following a lengthy illness.

He was born on September 3, 1965 in St. Marys, PA, a son of the late Gerhart “Gary” Geitner, who preceded him in death in 2003 and Carol Meyer Geitner, who survives of St. Marys.

On October 14, 1989, in St. Marys Church, he married Lori Nasoni, who survives. Together they shared more than 34 years of love and laughter.

Hinder was a 1983 graduate of St. Marys Area High School and had worked at Eastern Sintered Alloys for the past 38 years. He was a longtime member of the Eagles and the Camp Owners. He loved being outdoors, and enjoyed spending time in the woods hunting and going to camp. Most of all, he loved being with his family and being a Papa to his five grandchildren.

Beloved Husband, Father, Grandfather

Bernard A. “Bernie” Hawks, 76, of Cuba, NY passed away Saturday, January 27, 2024 at home with family by his side after many years of related illnesses to Agent Orange he lost his battle to pancreatic cancer.

Born on January 31, 1947, in Wellsville, he was a son of Robert E. and Isabelle Linza Hawks.  On February 22, 1969, in Friendship, he married the former Julie A Graves who survives.

Bernie was a graduate of Richburg Central Schools Class of 1966 where excelled in sports.  He served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War from 1966-68.  For his service he received the Vietnam Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal with Bronze Service Star, and the Vietnam Campaign Medal with Device 60. 

His entire working career was in Tire Sales, but retired from Valley Tire Co., in Olean after 40 years in the tire industry. 

Bernie was an active member of the Cuba Methodist Church where he served in many board positions and the Cuba American Legion Post 655.  He had coached the Cardinals Little League Team during his son’s youth and was a basketball referee for many years.  He was well known in the area for selling tires and attending sporting events. 

In addition to his wife of 54 years, Julie, he is survived by

Linda M. Kemick, 73, of Bradford, PA passed away Saturday, January 27, 2024, at Olean General Hospital.

Family will be receiving friends on Wednesday, January 31, 2024, from 4:00 to 6:00 pm in the Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes, Inc. 33 South Ave. followed by funeral services at 6 pm. A complete obituary will follow soon.

 Online condolences may be made at www.hollenbeckcahill.com

M. Phyllis Daly, 92, formerly of Forest Road, St. Marys, PA passed away Friday, January 26, 2024, at Christ the King Manor in DuBois.

She was born January 24, 1932, in St. Marys, daughter of the late Alfred and Frances Meyer Gleixner.  She was a lifelong resident of the area and a graduate of Central Catholic High School, Class of 1949 and a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church.  After graduating from Central Catholic, Phyllis continued her education at Seton Hill College, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in Home Economics.

On April 24, 1954, in St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Phyllis married the late Eugene F. Daly, who preceded her in death on July 23, 2008. 

Daniel J. Romaneo, 77, of Westfield, PA, passed away on Friday, January 19, 2024, at the Robert Packer Hospital, Sayre, PA. Born November 11, 1946, in Wellsboro, PA, he was a son of the late Garry and Helen (Zengerle) Romaneo.

Dan was a 1966 Graduate of Cowanesque Valley High School in Westfield. After graduation, Dan worked in the music industry in marketing, was a DJ at many Elmira, NY radio stations and was the lead singer in the band, Them Five and Eye. On June 19, 2004, Dan married the former Pamela (Smith) English, who survives. Dan and his wife, Pam, owned and operated the The Log Cabin Inn, located in Wellsboro, for 20 years. His love of music and being a talented pianist led him to start the East Hill Blues Band, and then later, the band, Cabin Fever. He also greatly enjoyed fishing and spending time with his family, friends, and patrons.

Albert J. Stage, 89 of Lawrenceville, PA passed away on Tuesday, January 23, 2024 at his home surrounded by family.

He was born May 28, 1934 in Lawrenceville, PA to the late Fred and Marian (Osgood) Stage. He married Lucille Erickson and they shared 60 plus loving years together before her passing in April 2022. 

Albert worked at Ingersol-Rand for 30 plus years before he retired. He enjoyed being outdoors in the woods, riding his bulldozer and cutting wood.

M. Phyllis Daly, 92, formerly of Forest Road, St. Marys, PA passed away Friday, January 26, 2024 at Christ the King Manor in DuBois. 

Funeral arrangements are incomplete and under the direction of Lynch-Radkowski Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc.

Kathy A. Lauffenberger, 80, of Warren, PA., died Friday morning, January 26, 2024, at her residence, after an extended illness. 

She was born May 22, 1943, in Columbus, Ohio.  She was the daughter of Byron and Emma Jean Keller Gross.  She has resided in Warren area most of her life.  Kathy was employed as secretary of the president of New Process Company and worked with her husband, building fireplaces.  She was of the Lutheran faith, she enjoyed motorcycle riding, going to the beach, spending time with family, especially her grandchildren. 

Timothy R. Thomas, of Ridgway, PA, peacefully departed this life at the age of 67 on Thursday, January 25, 2024 surrounded by his family after a hard-fought battle with cancer.

He was born on March 29, 1956 in Ridgway, PA. He was the son of the late Lloyd R. Thomas (Georgeanna) and Mary T. Viglione Popson (James).

Tim was a 1974 graduate of Ridgway Area High School. After, he enlisted and served in the United States Airforce.

On August 6, 1977, he married the love of his life, Susan Anderson. She survives.

After the United States Airforce, he worked for a defense contractor, attained his college degree, and travelled across the USA and world while raising his family. After returning to Ridgway in 1997, he owned and operated a contracting business, Christmas tree farm, and clock repair. He taught industrial electronics at I.T.E.C. and retired from Dickinson Center, Inc. as the Program Director of Elkwood Arts.

Tim was a true craftsman. He built his family’s residence. He enjoyed spending his time with his wife, children, and grandchildren. He could be found listening to bluegrass while working on projects in his workshop or barn. He maintained a garden and homestead. He could fix anything but a broken heart.

David J. STONEHAM, Jr., 43, of Wellsville, NY, died Wednesday, January 24, 2024 in his home.  He was born November 1, 1980, in Wellsville.  

Dave was a 1999 graduate of Wellsville High School.  He enjoyed helping DJ Jazzy Jeff, The Music Alley, ZOAR, and his good friend, Tim Whitesell.  He was part of the Green Machine bowling team and loved spending time outdoors hunting and fishing.  David touched many lives in the community.  

Frank O. Pier, age 86, of Wellsboro, PA, died on Thursday, January 25, 2024. 

He was born on May 18, 1937 in Wellsboro, PA a son of the late Oliver and Dorotha (Lloyd) Pier and was the husband of the late Alice (Arwin) Pier. 

Frank was a member of the First Baptist Church of Wellsboro, Wellsboro Men’s Chorus, he was a teacher for the Wellsboro Area School District for 29 years, an avid walker and enjoyed woodworking. 

Edward L. Stebick, 83, of St. Marys, PA passed away Wednesday, January 24, 2024, at Penn Highlands DuBois.

He was born September 14, 1940, in St. Marys, son of the late Alfred Stebick, Sr. and Geraldine Kreckle Stebick.  He was a lifelong resident of the area and a graduate of Central Catholic High School, Class of 1958.  He was employed at Powdered Metal Products for 42 years and was a parishioner of St. Mary’s Catholic Church.  He was a sacristan at the church and was a devout and loving Christian throughout his life.

On February 4, 1961, in Sacred Heart Church, Ed married Patricia “Patty” Vollmer.  They were blessed to share 62 years of marriage and were very much looking forward to celebrating their 63^rd anniversary in a few days.

David W. Herzing, 82, of 733 West Creek Road, St. Marys, PA passed away Tuesday, January 23, 2024, after a lengthy illness.

He was born February 24, 1941, in St. Marys, son of the late Frank X. and Louise Brown Herzing.  He was a lifelong resident of the area and a graduate of St. Marys Area High School, Class of 1958. 

On February 23, 1963, Dave married Carol Jean Haberberger, who survives.  They were blessed to share 60 years of marriage.  Along with his loving wife, Dave is survived by their four children: David Herzing, Jr., of Concord, North Carolina, Shelley Herzing (Carly) of Richmond, Virginia, Melissa Herzing of Scranton, Pennsylvania, and Peter Herzing (Khrista) of Disputanta, Virginia; grandchildren, Alex Herzing, Marlies (Michael) Young, Jacob (Bethany) Herzing, Wyatt, Rion, Kyla, Zeke, and Mazie Herzing; great-granddaughter, Gemma Young; three sisters: Margaret Ruckman of Fredonia, New York, Sally Caskey of St. Marys, and Marie Kresge (Ronald) of Columbus, Ohio; a brother, Frank Herzing (Helen) of St. Marys; a sister-in-law, Donna Herzing of St. Marys; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Scott Aaron Bebko, 52, of Bradford, Pennsylvania, died all too suddenly while at work on January 17, 2024.

Scott was born on April 8, 1971, in Erie, PA.  He was the beloved son on the late Ronald J. and Peggy Comita Bebko. Scott graduated in 1989 from Cathedral Preparatory School in Erie. He then attended Penn State Erie, The Behrend College, where he pledged and became an Active in the Alpha Phi Omega (ABN) fraternity organization. This was one of the most pivotal and happy times in Scott’s life, and where he made lifelong friends.

Scott lived in Richmond, Virginia for 5 years, where he worked for Time-Life. After moving back to Olean, NY in 1999, Scott met the love of his life, his wife, Lori. On August 21, 2004, they were married in Allegheny State Park. They were each other’s best friend.

Scott worked in many trades, with the majority being in sales. He was employed by Bradford Forest Products, Autozone, Walmart, and then found his calling at Keystone Powdered Metal in Lewis Run, Pennsylvania. He was employed as a CNC Operator at the time of his death.

Scott was the epitome of honor, loyalty, and goodness. Anyone who met him was better for having the opportunity. His love and expertise at Magic the Gathering and D&D was legendary.

Geraldine P. “Gerri” Hoffman, 80, of 148 Upper Cherry Road, Kersey, PA passed away Wednesday, January 24, 2024 at Pinecrest Manor.

She was born February 27, 1943 in St. Marys, daughter of the late George and Elsie Martin Pfaff.  She was a lifelong resident of the area, graduated from the first graduating class at Elk County Christian, Class of 1962, and was employed at Sylvania.

On November 23, 1962 in Sacred Heart Church, Gerri married Louis Hoffman, who survives.  They were blessed to share 61 years of marriage.

Donald R. “Bear” Dalrymple, 65, of Coudersport, PA passed into the presence of his Lord and Savior on Friday, January 19, 2024.  Bear was born on July 19, 1958, in San Mateo, CA, the son of the late Linda Dalrymple.  

Bear worked for many years as a computer programmer for Adelphia, Level 3 and Ithaca College. Bear was a member of Gospel Tabernacle, in Coudersport and enjoyed playing guitar and riding motorcycles. Before moving to Coudersport, Bear was ordained by Calvary Chapel in 1996 and served as the planting pastor of Vista Christian Church right outside of Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas.  He was passionate about serving his Lord and helped many area churches with worship and preaching.

Bear is survived by his two daughters, Bonnie and Caitlyn, a brother David Hickey of Lathrop, CA; and close friends; Pastor Joe Gerhart of Karthaus; Roxanne Bencardino of Austin; Pastor John and Gina Minor of Coudersport; and Walt Miles Jr of Roulette. 

A celebration of Bear’s life will be held on February 1st at 6:00 pm at the Gospel Tabernacle. 420 Route 6 West, Coudersport. 

The family has entrusted Bear’s arrangements to the Thomas E Fickinger Funeral Home, 210 N. East St., Coudersport.  To share a memory or condolence, visit www.thomasfickinger.com. 

William C. Hendrickson, 75, of Driftwood, PA passed away at his residence on Wednesday (January 24, 2024) morning following a lengthy illness.

He was born September 15, 1948 in Altoona, PA a son of the late Charles and Jean Fredrick Hendrickson. On June 22, 1991 in Emporium Country Club he married Marsha Jeffrey, who survives.

Bill graduated from Cameron County High School in 1966. He received a bachelors degree in education from Penn State, and was a lifelong Penn State football fan. He served two years in the US Army during the Viet Nam War

He retired from the Postal Service in 2010. He loved birding, traveling, hunting, fishing, the family land in Nebraska, and cats.

George L. Lewis, 76, of Emporium, PA passed away at Guy & Mary Felt Manor, Emporium, PA on Monday morning (January 22, 2024) following a lengthy illness. He was born April 8, 1947 in St. Marys, PA a son of the late Lawrence and Mary Hornung Lewis.

George graduated from Cameron County High School and served with the US Navy during the Vietnam War. He enjoyed trapping and being with his family.

David W. Herzing, 82, of 733 West Creek Road, St. Marys, passed away Tuesday, January 23, 2024 at Elk Haven Nursing Home. 

Specific visitation information for Friday and service information for Saturday will be announced in the full obituary.  

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Lynch-Radkowski Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc.

Albert L. Reist, 94, of Warren, PA, died Tuesday morning, January 23, 2024, at Warren Manor Nursing Home, Warren, PA., after an extended illness. 

He was born August 27, 1929 in Warren, PA., to the late Charles and Mina Stoddard Reist.  Albert was a lifelong Warren area resident.  Albert had served with the U.S. Army as a Corporal during the Korean War. He was a self-employed contractor building numerous homes in the Warren County area.  He was a member of the Youngsville American Legion.

He is survived by his 5 children – Sherry Smith of Youngsville, PA., Robert (Bob) Reist and wife, Joan of Warren, PA., Tim Reist of Youngsville, PA., Linda Kasaback of Ludlow, PA., Cathy Yeskey of Youngsville, PA., 1 Sister – Mary Chapel, of Warren, PA., 8 Grandchildren, 3 great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. 

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Dorothy L. Berlin Reist who died June 5, 2021, whom he married January 16, 1954, at Whig Hill, Forest Co., PA., 2 Brothers – Robert and Richard Reist, 2 Sisters – Rose Reist, Barbara Cook 1 Granddaughter – Casey Reist. 

A private service will be conducted at the convenience of the family.  E-mail condolences may be sent by visiting www.lewisfuneralhomeinc.com  The Donald E. Lewis Funeral Home, Inc. has been entrusted with final arrangements.

“beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother”

Linea L. Simons, 70, of Shinglehouse, PA passed away on Tuesday, January 23, 2024, in UPMC Cole Place, Coudersport, after a long illness.

Born on Wednesday, September 16, 1953 in Lackawanna, NY, she was a daughter of Vergil S. and Alyene O. Karr Smith.  On November 25, 1972 in Shinglehouse, she married Howard P. “Scuff” Simons, who survives.

Linea was a graduate of Oswayo Valley High School, Class of 1971 in Shinglehouse. She later attended Williamsport Community College and later the University of Pittsburgh in Bradford.

Linea was employed by the former Olean American Tile Plant in Olean, NY, AVX Corporation in Olean, Cutco Corporation in Olean where she was a line worker, and by the former Dr. Clark’s Veterinary Office in Portville, NY.  She was later employed in the Mental Health Unit at the former St. Francis Hospital in Olean and lastly as a waitress at Perkins Restaurant and Friendly’s Restaurant, both in Olean. Linea also babysat many local children in town, they all loved her!!

Linea was a former member of the Shinglehouse Volunteer Fire Department and a life member of the former Shinglehouse Volunteer Firemen’s Ladies Auxiliary.  She loved riding her Honda trike with her husband, Scuff.  She also loved scrapbooking and traveling, the most memorable being their trip to the redwoods in California and all points in between.  Her greatest love was spending time with her family, especially with her great-grandchildren.

Linea L. Simons, 70, of Shinglehouse, PA passed away on Tuesday, January 23, 2024, in UPMC Cole Place, Coudersport, after a long illness.

Arrangements, entrusted to the compassionate 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.

Donald R. “Bear” Dalrymple, 65, of Coudersport, PA passed away on Friday, January 19, 2024, at UPMC-Cole. 

Bear was born on July 19, 1958, in San Mateo, CA, the son of the late Linda Dalrymple.

Bear worked many years for Level 3 as a computer programmer and later worked for Ithaca College.  Bear was a member of Gospel Tabernacle, Coudersport and enjoyed playing guitar and riding his motorcycle.  Bear was also a Pastor in Texas and helped at various churches in the Coudersport area. 

Bear is survived by a brother, David Hickey of Lathrop, CA; and close friends; Pastor Joe Gerhart of Karthaus; Roxanne Bencardino of Austin; and Pastor John and Gina Minor of Coudersport.

A celebration of Bear’s life will be held Thursday, February 1, 2024 at 6:00 pm, at the Gospel Tabernacle, 420 Route 6 West, Coudersport, with Pastor John Minor, officiating.

The family has entrusted Bear’s arrangements to the Thomas E. Fickinger Funeral Home, 210 N. East St., Coudersport. To share a memory or condolence visit www.thomasfickinger.com.

James H. “Jim” Cochran, age 82, of Wellsboro, PA, died on Tuesday, January 23, 2024. 

He was born on January 5, 1942 in Wellsboro, PA, a son of the late Hiel and Loretta (Patt) Cochran and was married for 60 years to Linda L. (King) Cochran. 

Jim was a lifelong truck driver and had driven for the H. W. Taynton Trucking Company, Wellsboro, PA for 20 years.  He loved spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. 

William C. “Bill” Henry, 87, of Warren, PA, formerly of Lakewood, FL, passed away on Sunday, January 21, 2024, in his home surrounded by his loving family.

He was born in East Brady, PA, on April 28, 1936, the son of the late John and Florence Henry. Bill was a graduate of East Brady High School Class of 1954. He retired as a mechanical engineer, May 1, 1996, after 21 years of service from Cummins, Inc. of Lakewood, NY. He was of the Catholic faith and a former member of Holy Redeemer Catholic Church, Warren, PA.

Bill enjoyed baseball and played every chance he got; in his later years he also played softball for local adult leagues in Warren and the surrounding areas. He enjoyed motorcycles, boating, hunting, snowmobiling, and golfing in Florida. In his later years he found a passion for model trains and airplanes. Bill was a member of the Lakewood Rod and Gun Club. He and his wife, Kathryn, enjoyed traveling and for their 50th wedding anniversary, they went on a cruise to Hawaii.

On August 24, 1957, he married Kathryn Bearfield in East Brady, PA and they spent 66 loving years together.

Eric W. Tampuu, 47, of Main St., Roulette, PA passed away unexpectedly Sunday (Jan. 14, 2024) from injuries sustained in a snowmobile accident.

     Born December 27, 1976, he was a son of Vello and Joanne Covone Tampuu.

     Eric was a resident of the area for 14 years coming from New Jersey. He was a graduate of Lakewood High School, Lakewood, NJ, class of 1995.

     He was a self-employed mason and logger for several years.

     Eric was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed fishing, hunting, and snowmobiling. 

     Surviving in addition to his mother, Joanne Tampuu of Port Allegany, are two sons, Eric W. Tampuu, Jr. of Bricktown, NJ, Travis H, Tampuu of New Egypt, NJ; a daughter, Alyssa Tampuu of New Egypt, NJ; a granddaughter, River Rose Tampuu of Bricktown, NJ; two brothers, Marcus J. Tampuu of Port Allegany, and Anthony V. Tampuu of Toms River, NJ.

     Friends are invited to attend a memorial service on Saturday (Jan. 27, 2024) at 11 a.m. in the Switzer Funeral Home, Port Allegany, with Rev. J.T. Madison, officiating.

     Condolences can be made to:  Marcus J. Tampuu, 999 Coleman Mills Rd., Port Allegany, PA 16743.

Eleanor M. Carpenter, age 93, of Westfield, PA passed away peacefully on Sunday, January 21, 2024 at the Green Home in Wellsboro.

Born June 2, 1930 in Gowanda, NY, she was the daughter of the late Martin and Mary (Klancer) Matekovich. She married Embert L. “Carpy” Carpenter in 1948 and they shared 64 years together until his passing on September 8, 2013.

Eleanor was a graduate of Gowanda High School and Westbrook Commercial Academy in Olean, NY. She was employed by Clark Brothers Co. in Wellsville, NY and the Free Press Courier in Westfield.

She was a member of the Clymer Baptist Church.

Eleanor is survived by her sons, James D. (Charis) Carpenter of Newport News, VA and Richard K. Carpenter of Westfield; three grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

Per Eleanor’s wishes, there will be no services held.

Burial will follow a private family service in Card Creek Cemetery, Roulette, PA.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Clymer Baptist Church, PO Box 5, Sabinsville, PA 16943 or to the Sabinsville Ambulance Association, PO Box 156, Sabinsville, PA 16943. Arrangements are in care of Kenyon Funeral Home, Westfield. www.kenyonfuneralhome.com.

Fern Plumley, 93 of Cowanesque, PA passed away peacefully after a brief illness on Saturday, January 20, 2024.

Fern was born April 14, 1930 in Brookfield Township Pa. She was the daughter of the late Iva (Cleveland) Vanzile and was adopted at an early age by her aunt, the late Margaret VanZile. 

 She was preceded in death in September 2000 by her husband of 51 years, Francis Plumley, the love of her life. 

She remained mentally sharp, generous in spirit and deed, appreciative of visits with her friends, family and was a faithful member of The Cowanesque United Methodist Church for 70 plus years. She held many positions in the church. 

She was a wonderful caring mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. Fern was extremely close with her family. Her life was happy and joyful. Her positive uplifting approach to life was an inspiration to all that knew her. Fern always had an open door for family and friends.

Fern enjoyed many activities. She enjoyed cooking, gardening, hiking, traveling, sewing, knitting, crocheting, snowmobiling, camping, the great outdoors and she made an amazing 70 afghans to share.

She was a lifetime member of The Cowanesque Rod & Gun Club. She was inducted into the Voter Hall of Fame (50 years).

Fern was a 1947 graduate of Westfield High School. She taught Sunday School in the United Methodist Church and led the United Methodist Church Women’s Group for many years.

Fern worked at Clark’s Drug Store, Galeton Production, Northern Tioga School District and was co-owner and Manager of the VanZile Home for the Aged until her retirement. Her sweet, thoughtful and compassionate care was known throughout the area.

She was proud of the Cowanesque Valley School District, Church and her community for which she was active and involved.

Philip Green Jr., 62, of N. Tionesta Ave. in Kane, PA passed away Saturday (Jan. 20) at Penn Highlands Dubois.  Born March 18, 1961 in Port Allegany, he is the son of Philip (Harvetta) Green Sr. and the late Donna (Klawuhn) Dugener. On June 4, 2005, in Kane, he married Jill Weirich, who survives.

Phil was retired from Kane Innovations.He was a member of the Kane VFW, the Kane Eagles Club and the Wilcox Sportsman club.  He was also a very active member of the Kane Country Club.  He loved hunting, fishing, golfing and traveling with his wife.