Raymond R. Ishman, 83, of Charlotte, NC and previously Sheffield, PA passed away on Thursday, Dec. 1, 2022.
He was born on Nov. 26, 1939, in Barnett Twp., Forest County, PA the son of the late Alexander and Julia (Haight) Ishman. He married Linda Eckstrom on August 27, 1977.
They were happily married for 31 years before her passing on November 12, 2008.
Ray worked as a Journeyman Machinist in the aerospace industry prior to his retirement.
Surviving relatives include six sons, Randy, Ray Jr., Chris (Rachel), Joshua (Amanda), Kyle (Jessica), and Alexander (Brandi); one daughter, Nicole; three grandchildren, Caleb, Eric and Marissa and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, six siblings, his wife Linda, and son Dennis.
Friends are invited to attend a memorial service, which will take place on Saturday, December 10 at 2:00 p.m. at the Cummings Funeral Home, with the Rev. Calvin Cook, officiating.
Interment will be in Gibbs Hill Cemetery.
Memorial donations may be made to the American Diabetes Association.
Germaine C. Dietz, 83, of 116 Catalina Road, St. Marys, passed away unexpectedly Sunday, December 4, 2022 at Penn Highlands DuBois. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Lynch-Radkowski Funeral Home.
Shane M. WEINREBER, 43, of Shongo, NY, died Friday, December 2, 2022 in his home.
Born August 14, 1979, in Wellsville, he was the son of Mark and Linda Skillman Weinreber.
Shane attended Wellsville High School, owned and operated SW Sheetmetal in Shongo, and was employed by Mazza Mechanical Services in Olean, Bill Scott Heating, and Tim Shea Plumbing and Heating.
He was a social member of Shinglehouse American Legion Post #530.
Surviving are: his mother, Linda Weinreber of Belmont; three daughters, Sarah (Ryan Newman) Weinreber of Wellsville, Mackenzie Payne of Sebastian, FL, and Chelsey Payne of Vero Beach; three grandchildren, Olivea, Bentley, and Remington; two sisters, Heather (Melvin) Smith of Circleville, OH and Dawn (Kevin) Scott of Angelica; step-brothers, Matthew (Joanne) Cook of Harrisburg, NC and Olen Cook of Rockwood, TN; the mother of his children, Jeana (Jason) Wood of Sebastian, FL; aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins.
He was predeceased by his father and both maternal and paternal grandparents.
A gathering to celebrate Shane’s life will be held on a later date. Memorials may be made to the family.
Arrangements are under the direction of OLNEY-FOUST Funeral Homes & Cremation, Crowell Chapel, 296 North Main Street, Wellsville, NY. Online condolences may be expressed at www.wellsvillefuneralhome.com.
Barbara E. BOEKELL, 95, of Wellsville, NY, died Friday, December 2, 2022 in Highland Park Rehabilitation & Nursing Center, Wellsville.
Born January 22, 1927, in Wellsville, she was the daughter of John and Ruth Hann Baldwin.
A graduate of Wellsville High School, she was employed by Reuning’s Bakery and Wellsville Auto Parts. Barbara was a member of Wellsville Country Club and JMH Twig. She was an avid golfer with her husbands and loved to watch it on TV. Barbara enjoyed crocheting, especially for the newborns at Jones Memorial Hospital. She was an avid Buffalo Bills fan.
Surviving are: a daughter, Bonita (David) Sweet of Penfield, NY; a daughter-in-law, Deirdre “Dee” Roeske of Wellsville; grandchildren and great-grandchildren; nieces, nephews and cousins; and a special friend, Linda Trask of Wellsville.
She was predeceased by her first husband, Eli Roeske; her second husband, Franklin C. Boekell; a son, Randy E. “Rocket” Roeske; an eight-year-old brother; and a sister, Elizabeth E. Johnson.
Private burial will be in Woodlawn Cemetery, Wellsville.
Arrangements are under the direction of OLNEY-FOUST Funeral Homes & Cremation, Crowell Chapel, 296 North Main Street, Wellsville, NY. Online condolences may be expressed at www.wellsvillefuneralhome.com.
PORTLAND, Oregon—William Robert “Billy” Dickerson, 36, of Portland, formerly of Shinglehouse, Pa., passed away in the early morning hours of Thursday, December 1, 2022, in his home in Portland, after many years of opioid addiction that stemmed from chronic pain through the years.
Born on Wednesday, June 11, 1986 in Coudersport, he was a son of Don and Judy Strait Dickerson.
Billy was a graduate of Oswayo Valley High School, Class of 2004, in Shinglehouse. He attended Slippery Rock University and furthered his education majoring in Communications, minoring in French, graduating from Buffalo State University with a Bachelor of Science degree. He also was given the opportunity to travel abroad to study in France for a semester.
He was previously employed in technical support for Apple in many cities throughout the country.
Billy enjoyed listening to all genres of music and was often found singing, dancing and living life to the fullest. Traveling was his passion. Everyone who knew Billy, knew that he wanted to live. His family and friends will remember his infectious laugh, love for adventure, and his sensitive soul.
Left to cherish his memory are his parents of Shinglehouse; two sisters, Amy Murray of Farmington, Pa. and Jennie (Eddie) Jackson of Genesee, Pa.; three nephews, Chase, Xavier, and Damion; a niece, Cassandra; his paternal grandfather, William Dickerson of Shinglehouse; several aunts, uncles, and cousins; and many friends across the country.
Billy was predeceased by his paternal grandmother, Theo Dickerson; his maternal grandparents, Robert and Dorothy Strait; and several aunts and uncles, who he adored.
Family and friends may call from 5pm to 7pm on Wednesday, December 14, 2022, at the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, 118 South Union Street, Shinglehouse, Pa., where a celebration of Billy’s life will follow at 7pm.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.
Billy’s family has entrusted his care and cremation arrangements to Kevin J. Dusenbury, funeral director/owner of the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse, Pa.
To express condolences, light a candle or share a fond memory of Billy, please visit www.virgillhowardfuneralhome.com or the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home Facebook page.
COUDERSPORT, P a.—Family and friends are invited to attend a memorial service for Beverly J. Higley, 90, of Coudersport, at Noon on Saturday, December 10, 2022, at the Coudersport Alliance Church, 7 Alliance Avenue, Coudersport, with the Rev. Josh Dean, pastor, officiating.
Beverly’s family entrusted her care and cremation arrangements to Kevin J. Dusenbury, funeral director/owner of the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse.
Timothy Bradybaugh, 75, of N. Fraley St. in Kane, PA passed away Friday (Dec. 2) at UPMC-Kane. He was born on Dec. 23, 1946 in Kane, the son of the late Robert and Jessie (Ewing) Bradybaugh.
Tim had worked in the oil fields and also as a carpenter. He also had worked for several years at Kane Screen. He also served as a Marine in the Vietnam War during 1968-1969. He was an avid hunter up until a few years ago and enjoyed the outdoors.
He is survived by one son, Greg Bradybaugh of Kane; one daughter Nicole (Eric) Seelye of St. Marys; three grandsons, Trenton, Chesney and Trey Bradybaugh; one granddaughter, Hannah Seelye and a sister, Sandra Johnson of Kane. Also many nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one brother, Bud Bradybaugh; four sisters, Connie Dalton, Colleen Taraska, Peggy Davidson and Sue ann Whippo and a grandson, Andrew Scott Bradybaugh.
Friends are invited to attend a visitation which will take place on Tuesday (Dec. 6) from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Cummings Funeral Home. A funeral service will follow at 1:00 p.m., with the Rev. William O’Brien, pastor of St. Callistus Catholic Church, officiating.
Memorial donations may be made to any veteran related charity.
Harry James “Jim” Thomas, 75, of Sunrise Acres Rd., Emporium, PA passed away at his residence on Saturday morning (December 3, 2022) following a lengthy illness.
He was born July 28, 1947 in St. Marys, PA a son of the late Harry D. and Jean Lingenfelter Thomas. On February 24, 2018 in Emporium he married Beth Berry, who survives.
Jim graduated from Cameron County High School, Class of 1965. He worked for GTE Sylvania right out of high school and through college as a Materials Manager for 20 years before coming back to Emporium in 1985, where he worked for Pennsylvania Pressed Metals for 2 years. In 1987, he owned and operated The Happiness Inn with his then wife, Charli until 1990 when they purchased The Cabin Kitchen. They ran the Cabin together until her death, eventually selling the business in 2009.
His love for his community led him to run for County Commissioner, serving 2 terms from 2012-2019. Jim enjoyed spending time with his family, especially his granddaughter Carmella whom he thought of as a daughter. He was an avid golfer and was a member of the Emporium Country Club for over 52 years. He also enjoyed his weekly poker games and betting on sports with his friend Dick Green.
In addition to his wife Beth he is survived by two daughters, Darlene (Jim) Morton and Anne (Randy) Horning, both of Emporium; a son, Robert (Tracy) Thomas, Tamaqua; two stepsons: Justin Austin of Irvonia and John Legersky of Emporium; one step daughter, Janelle Legersky of Emporium; eight Grandchildren: Christopher and Adam Barnett, of Emporium, Dustin Thomas, of Tamaqua, Kelsey (Tim) Smith of Zebulon, NC, Dylan, Eric, & Gavin Morton; all of Emporium, Carmella Austin of Emporium; Great Grandchildren Jack and Saylor Smith, Zebulon, NC; sister, Becky (Lowell) Fryxell, Emporium; brother, Tim (Ginger) Thomas, Pasadena, MD; sister-in-law, Carol Thomas, of Emporium.
In addition to his parents, Jim was preceded in death by his wife, Charlotte “Charli” Thomas in 2001; a son, Shannon Thomas in 1980; great granddaughter, Maisie Michelle Smith; and one brother, Arnold “Butch” Thomas.
Visitation with Video Tribute will be at the Barnett Funeral Home, 207 E. Fourth Street, Emporium, PA on Wednesday (December 7, 2022) from 11:00 AM – 1:45 PM. with a funeral service to follow at 2:00 PM with Father Matthew Ryan, officiating.
Burial will be take place in the Thomas-Ryan Cemetery, Emporium, PA.
Memorial Contributions may be made to the charity of the donors choice.
Carmen M. Wehler, 79, of Teaberry Road, St. Marys, PA passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, December 3, 2022 at her home.
She was born on April 18, 1943 in St. Marys, PA, a daughter of the late George and Rose Cornelio Garbic.
On October 2, 1961, at Sacred Heart Church, she married the late Richard J. Wehler, who preceded her in death on March 20, 2008. Together they shared more than 47 years of love and laughter.
Carmen was a lifelong resident of the area and graduate of St. Marys High School. She was a member of Queen of the World Church and retired from Grotzinger’s Equipment after many years of service. She had also worked at Penn Bank for a number of years.
She was a talented crocheter, always enjoying making blankets for her family. She also enjoyed sewing and swimming, and could often be found cooking for her family. Together with her husband, they were members of the Elk County Cloggers and the North Country Cloggers.
A kind, loving, and generous mother and grandmother, Carmen cherished nothing more than spending time with her family.
She is survived by 3 children; Denise Cheatle and her husband Dan, Richard (Amy Pichler) Wehler, and Keith (Nancy Pistner) Wehler, all of St. Marys, by her 7 grandchildren; Shane Cheatle, Betsy (Edison) LaValle, Nastashya (Richard) Butto, Kyle Wehler, Savannah Wehler, Jordan Wehler and Nash Wehler, as well as by her 9 great-grandchildren. She is also survived by a brother; David Shope of Erie and a sister; Theresa “Sis” Fox of Maryland, as well as by several nieces and nephews.
A Mass of Christian Burial for Carmen M. Wehler will be celebrated on Wednesday, December 7, 2022 at 11:00 AM at Queen of the World Church, 134 Queens Road, St. Marys, PA 15857 with Rev. Jeffery Noble, Pastor, as celebrant. Burial will be in the St. Marys Catholic Cemetery.
There will be no public visitation.
Memorial Contributions may be made to Queen of the World Church or to a charity of choice.
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
Velma Miles Gross, 91, a resident of Elk Haven Nursing Home and formerly of 631 Cedar Road, St. Marys, PA passed away on November 27, 2022, at Elk Haven.
She was born April 26, 1931 in Ridgway, PA, daughter of the late Sarah Hasselman Miles. She graduated from Central Christian High School in 1949, and on September 9, 1950 she married Jay Gross Jr. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church. Her husband Jay preceded her in death on April 11, 2021.
While Velma was busy raising nine children, she found a second home at the St. Marys Public Library, working part-time from 1969-2020. Her family thanks all of Velma’s co-workers for all of their love and kindness. This was an ideal job for Velma, since she was a voracious reader, who kept her husband, Jay, busy adding new bookshelves in their home to contain her ever growing collections.
She also enjoyed watching Jeopardy and Masterpiece Theater, lunching out at the Village Peddler and Hoss’s with Jay, and spending time with her beloved cats, especially Gracie.
Velma will be remembered for her loving commitment to her family, and being one of the most kind and sweetest persons most people have ever met.
Velma is survived by six children: Lynda O’Connor and Valerie Gerg of St. Marys; Mary Gross (Jeff Poling) of Elkins, WV; Alan Gross (Amy), Mark Gross (Amy), and Tom Gross (Sheila) of Kersey; and by grandchildren: Kim Gross, Renata Haberberger, Joshua Gross, Leanne Smith, Crystal Thompson, Adam Gross, Adam Azzato, Patrick O’Connor, Caleb Gross, Justine Pesce, Ashley Poling, Dustin Gross, Amber Kisner, Evan Gerg, and Bree Keller; and by numerous great and great-great grandchildren.
Velma was preceded in death by a daughter, Janet Benninger; two sons: James “Casey” Gross and Bob Gross; and daughter-in-law, Sandy Gross; two grandchildren: Sherry Benninger and Brandon Gerg; and by two sisters: Eileen Erich and Sara Jane Schaberl.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in the Sacred Heart Church on Saturday, December 10, 2022, at 10:30 AM, with the Rev. Thomas Curry, OSB, Pastor, officiating.
Visitation with the family will be held at the Lynch-Radkowski Funeral Home from 9:00 AM until 10:00 AM.
Due to the Bah Humbug Festival at the Sacred Heart Parish Center, we kindly request that anyone attending the funeral park in either the back lot at Sacred Heart Church or in the parking lot of the Lynch-Radkowski Funeral Home.
Memorials, if desired, may be made to the St. Marys Public Library, 127 Center Street, St. Marys, PA 15857 or to the Elk County Humane Society, 1029 East Eschbach Road, St. Marys, PA 15857.
PORTLAND, Oregon—William Robert “Billy” Dickerson, 36, of Portland, formerly of Shinglehouse, Pa., passed away in the early morning hours of Thursday, December 1, 2022, in his home in Portland, after many years of opioid addiction that stemmed from chronic pain through the years.
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.
Renelda I. Ferragine, 92, of Elk Haven Nursing Home and formerly of Shawmut Ave., Johnsonburg, PA died early Saturday morning, December 3, 2022 at Elk Haven following a brief illness.
She was born on April 1, 1930 in Johnsonburg a daughter to the late Vincent and Elsie Biler Lupole. On December 24, 1950 she married Almondo “Elmer” Ferragine. He preceded her in death on August 8, 2019.
Renelda was a lifelong resident of Johnsonburg and was a 1948 graduate of Johnsonburg High School. She was a member of Holy Rosary Church and she loved spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was at home in the kitchen where she enjoyed baking and home canning. She also enjoyed knitting and flower gardening. A homemaker most of her life, she worked at PMP in St. Mary’s for several years.
Renelda is survived by her daughter Julie, Mrs. Larry Holjencin of Canon City, CO and her son Thomas Ferragine and his wife Alice of Bradford and her grandchildren; Keith, Kristy, Jody and Meghan and her great-grandchildren; Riley, Markie, Emily, Finn, Mave and Kole.
In addition to her parents and husband, she is predeceased by a daughter Mary M. Clelland, brothers; William, Vincent and Robert Lupole a sister Margaret Mowrey.
Funeral services and interment for Renelda Ferragine will be private and at the convenience of the family. There will be no visitation.
Arrangements are under direction of the Anthony F Ferragine Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 401 Chestnut Street, Johnsonburg, Pa.
He and his high school sweetheart, Georgia, were married while Don was in the military. He became an officer in the Army and served as an Artillery Battery Commander overseas. After leaving the military, he earned a degree from Temple University.
Don was the son of Dr. William and Elizabeth Igoe. He and Georgia have two children and five grandchildren – Jill Igoe Grimm (Brian), Audra, and Jeremiah; David Igoe (Jennifer) Alayna, Serena, and Ronan. He has a sister and brother-in-law, Carol and John Morton, along with many cousins, nieces, and nephews.
Don was a talented musician and enjoyed many years on the radio as a D.J. sharing his vast Bluegrass music collection with listeners.
He loved playing golf with his son, their family, and many friends. He enjoyed playing basketball and baseball, as well as coaching and scorekeeping for the children and grandchildren’s teams. Don and Georgia also loved attending the family’s many soccer games and band shows.
When the extended families would gather in the hills for picnics, Don and brother-in-law, Roger Green, loved to fish the Pennsylvania streams.
Rest in Peace, Don Igoe. You are forever in our hearts. We love you.
Mary Ann Bleem, 68, of Ranch Road, Lewis Run, PA passed away Friday, December 2, 2022, at her residence.
Born September 23, 1954,in Bradford, she was a daughter of the late Paul Sorokes and Dorothy (Bartoo) Abbott.
Surviving is her companion for the last 12 years, James L. Knight, one daughter, Becky Smith, one son, Harvey Smith, three step children, Laura Predmore, Roger Smith, and Michael Knight, one brother, Tom Barrett, and several nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, one step son, Randy Smith, one brother, Paul Sorokes, ands a half sister, Donna Blanchard.
Private services will be held for family. Burial will be in St. Bernard Cemetery.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes Inc.
David M. Hallock, 57, of Bradford, PA passed away on Thursday, December 1, 2022 at his home.
He was born on June 23, 1965 in Bradford; a son of the late Howard Hallock, Sr. and Margaret Bridge Goodmote.
He was a 1983 graduate of the Bradford Area High School.
On July 15, 2005 in Bradford, he married Lori L. Saar who survives.
Dave was known for his quick wit and his sharp sense of humor. He loved animals; especially his two dogs, Bob and Bear and his two cats, Sheldon and Stewart.
Dave was employed by various local contractors and plumbers throughout the years; most recently being self-employed.
In addition to his wife of seventeen years; Lori Hallock of Bradford, he is also survived by two daughters, Amber Hallock of Bradford and Dani Tolin of Bradford; one son, Michael Tolin of Grove City; three sisters, Sharon (Stacy) Sprester of Lewis Run, Debbie (Tim) McCormick of Bradford and Bridgette Burkett of Myrtle Beach, SC; two brothers, Howard Hallock, Jr. of Bradford and Bill (Neena) Hallock of Bradford; two grandsons, Axton and Aceson Bradford of Bradford; two aunts, Susie Collins of Lewis Run and Terrie Moore of Olean, NY; his in-laws, Larry and Kathy Saar of Bradford and several nieces, nephews and cousins.
In addition to his parents; he was also preceded in death by his stepfather, William Goodmote and one nephew, Timmy McCormick.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, December 7, 2022 at the Mascho Funeral Home, Inc. from 3:00 to 5:00 PM with a funeral service to immediately follow at 5:00 PM in the funeral home with the Rev. Ricky Price, pastor of the Church of Christ, officiating.
Memorial contributions in his memory can be made to No Feline Left Behind, P.O. Box 783, Bradford, PA 16701 or the American Cancer Society, 108R North Second St., Suite 1B, Clearfield, PA 16830.
Funeral arrangements are entrusted to the care of the Mascho Funeral Home, Inc.
Cynthia “Cindy” L. Fink, 63, of Ridgway, PA died on Wednesday, November 30, 2022, at Penn Highlands Dubois after a brief illness.
She was born on January 1, 1959, in St. Marys, a daughter of Helen Polaski Erickson and the late Clifford Erickson.
On August 21, 1982, at Holy Rosary Church, she married John Fink, who survives, of Ridgway.
Cindy was a graduate of Johnsonburg High School class of 1977 and was a member of St. Leos Church. She worked many years in health care before retiring to be a full-time grandma. She loved spending time with her family and talking to her friends on the phone.
In addition to her husband and mother, she is survived by 2 sons; Sean Fink and his wife Lacy of Ridgway and Ryan Fink of Ridgway, and 3 grandchildren: Abby, Sean Jr., and Luke.
In addition to her dad, she is preceded in death by a grandson, Charles Fink.
A Mass of Christian Burial for Cynthia L. Fink will be celebrated on Monday, December 5, 2022, at 10:00 AM at St. Leo Magnus Church, 111 Depot Street, Ridgway, PA 15853, with Fr. Jeffery Noble officiating.
Burial will follow at St. Leos Cemetery.
Visitation will be held at Krise Funeral Home, 130 Center Street, Ridgway, on Sunday, December 4, 2022, from 5:00PM until 7:00PM.
Memorial contributions can be made to St. Leo Magnus Church.
Krise Funeral Home, 130 Center Street, PA 15853 is handling the arrangements and online condolences may be offered to the family at www.krisefuneralhome.com.
Joanna Deming Stickler, age 87, of Lawrenceville, PA passed away on Monday, November 28, 2022 at Williamsport North Nursing Facility in Williamsport, PA.
Born on August 9, 1935 in Elmira, NY, she was the daughter to John A. Sr. and Elizabeth “Betty” (Woodford) Deming. Joanna married her high school sweetheart, Lester George Stickler, Jr. on December 4, 1953. They were just six days shy of celebrating 69 wonderful years of marriage together.
Joanna worked as a secretary for Bostwick Motor Sales in Lawrenceville, PA, but most of her life’s work was at home, as a homemaker. She enjoyed cooking, baking, gardening, preserving food, identifying plants, fishing, crocheting, photography, bird watching, and being hospitable to family and friends. She was also a member of the National Audubon Society, the East Lawrenceville Cemetery Association, and the East Lawrence Baptist Church.
Joanna is survived by her loving husband, George; two children, Mary K. Monger, and Michael Stickler, both of Lawrenceville, PA; seven grandchildren, David (Jill) Trimble, Jolene (Joe) Stickler-White, Dorothy (T.J.) Scott, Charlie (Jessica) Monger, Elizabeth (James) Caldwell, Andrew Takano, Aaron Bliss; many great grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews; and a son-in-law, Takashi Takano.
She was preceeded by her mother and father; a daughter, Dr. Jeanne Takano, and brother John “Jack” Deming Jr.
Family and friends are called to join a memorial service on December 17, 2022 at 1:30 PM at Kenyon Funeral Home, 214 W. Main St., Elkland, PA. Burial will be in East Lawrence Cemetery at a later date.
Francis “Manny” Gerhart of Kane, PA passed away peacefully at his residence and went home to be with the Lord early Saturday morning, November 26, 2022.
Manny was born in Leeper, Pennsylvania on July 7, 1935. He was the son of Louis L. and Sarah Heasley Gerhart Sr., and the brother to ten siblings.
Manny, a lifetime resident of Kane graduated from the Kane Area High School in 1954. He was an avid basketball player and part of the 1953-54 District Champion basketball team. He married his beloved wife of 61 years, Donna (Dunkle) on August 12, 1961.
On April 1, 1958 through March 16, 1960 he was enlisted in the United States Army where he was stationed in Germany as a clerk. Manny’s “claim to fame” was meeting Elvis Presley while stationed overseas and loved to share this story. Manny eventually transferred from active duty into the Army National Guard serving for three years in Company D, (Forward Support), 728th Maintenance Battalion, 28th Infantry Division located in Kane, as an Ordnance Supply Specialist. While serving in the Pennsylvania Army National Guard, he attained the rank of Specialist 4 prior to receiving an Honorable Discharge from the military.
Manny was a supervisor at Houston Electronics Corporation in Kane both prior to and after his military enlistment until the company closed in the 1990s. He then enjoyed driving for IU9 across local towns during his early retirement years.
Manny was a true sports enthusiast. Whether rooting for the Kane Wolves, Pittsburgh Steelers, Pirates and Penguins he enjoyed watching almost any kind of sporting event, many times watching multiple games simultaneously by flipping the TV channels to keep track of scores. He participated in fantasy football pools with friends and had his name added to the trophy after winning the pool on a couple occasions. He loved the community of Kane and could often be found having coffee with friends and visiting local shops. His quick-witted humorous remarks will be missed by everyone.
More than anything, Manny was extremely proud of and loved spending time with his twin daughters and six grandchildren. “Papa” was his family’s rock and will greatly be missed by them.
Manny is survived by his wife, Donna, twin daughters, Lori A. Trunzo of Pittsburgh, PA; Lisa M. McCord and her husband Alan of Hollsopple, PA; six grandchildren, Laurel (Pierotti) and Dylan Hyman, Kaleb Pierotti, Kyle Pierotti, Kieran Pierotti, all of Pittsburgh; Kristen McCord and Amber McCord of Hollsopple, PA; one sister Pearl “Sissy” Benson of Kane; and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; six brothers Louis, Milton, Thomas, Frank, Robert and John; and three sisters Jane Reed, Gloria Swanson and Martha Kwiatowski.
A private memorial service will be held at a later date.
The family requests donations be made in honor of Manny’s memory to either the First United Methodist Church of Kane or the Kane Volunteer Fire Department.
The Cummings Funeral Home, Inc. is in charge of services.
Kathleen S. “Kathie” CURRIER, 74, of Ellisburg, PA, died Monday, November 28, 2022 in Jones Memorial Hospital, Wellsville, NY.
Born August 19, 1948, in Cuba, NY, she was the daughter of Laddie A. and Marjorie R. Childs Parry. On February 15, 1974, in Obi, NY, she married Larry G. Currier, who predeceased her on May 23, 2011.
A 1967 graduate of Portville Central School, she earned her nursing degree from St. Francis School of Nursing in 1970. She was employed by Charles Cole Memorial Hospital in Coudersport for many years.
Kathie was a devoted Bills fan and enjoyed reading mysteries. She was a member of Ellisburg Union Wesleyan Church. Kathie loved spending time with her family.
Surviving are: two sons, Shawn Currier of Wellsville and Perry (Julie) Currier of Coudersport; a daughter, Sheena (Brandon)Yuhas of Phoenix, AZ; three grandchildren, Searah Anne Shutt, Phillip Currier, and Monique Currier; two brothers, Rick (Wendy) Parry of Obi, NY and Dale (Kay) Parry of Aiken; nieces and nephews.
She was predeceased by her parents and husband.
Friends may call at Ellisburg Union Wesleyan Church on Friday, December 2, 2022 from 10:00 – 11:00 AM, with Funeral Services following at 11:00 AM. Rev. Roy Ward will officiate. Burial will be in Andrews Settlement Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to Genesee Volunteer Ambulance, P.O. Box 9, Genesee, PA 16923.
Arrangements are under the direction of Olney-Foust Funeral Homes & Crematory, Ulysses, PA. Online condolences may be expressed at www.olneyfoust.com.
Shirley June Wiles, 95, formerly of South Kendall Avenue, Bradford, PA passed away Friday, November 25, 2022, at the Bradford Ecumenical Home.
Born November 21, 1927, in Bradford, she was a daughter of the late Leonard and Elsie ( Middlebrough) Schuetrum.
She was a 1946 graduate of Otto Township School.
On December 14, 1946, in Rixford, she married Jack E. Wiles who preceded her in death on June 6, 2011. June worked at Corning Glass during WWII. She also worked at Gray’s Drug Store and McCrory’s 5 &10. Shirley attended the Sawyer Evangelical Church.
She enjoyed gardening, canning, completing jigsaw puzzles, and was known for her extensive doll collection.
Surviving is one son, Paul F. Wiles, of Highspire, four grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, two great-great grandchildren, two brothers, Robert Schuetrum, of Bradford, and Leonard Schuetrum, of San Diego, CA, and several nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Jack of 64 years, one son, Gerald A. Wiles, two daughters, Marcia Darlene Howard, Cheryl L. Schaefer and one sister, Betty Marie Holsinger one brother, Edwin Schuetrum.
A Memorial service will be held at the convenience of the family. Burial will be in McKean Memorial Park.
Memorial contributions if desired may be made to the SPCA, or a charity of the donor’s choice. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes Inc. Online condolences may be made at www.hollenbeckcahill.com
Dennis J. Confer, 66, of Bradford, PA passed away on Monday, November 28, 2022 at the Bradford Manor.
He was born on August 13, 1956 in Bradford, the son of Shirley Weaver Confer of Bradford and the late William Confer.
He was a 1974 graduate of the Bradford Area High School.
After High School he was employed by Futures Rehabilitation Center, Inc. for several years prior to working for the Bradford Department of Motor Vehicles until he retired due to disability.
He attended the Sawyer Evangelical Church. He enjoyed playing video games on his laptop computer and watching wrestling on television and while at the Bradford Manor he enjoyed playing Bingo and painting.
In addition to his mother, he is also survived by one sister, Linda (Richard) Kliment of Bushnell, FL; two nieces, Tracy (Mike Ketchner) Piller of Olean, NY and Krista (Jay) Whitlow of Derrick City and five great nieces and nephews, Hunter Ackley, Jordan Piller and Morgan, Mallory and Jake Whitlow.
Private funeral services will be held at the convenience of the family.
Burial will be in McKean Memorial Park, Lafayette.
Funeral arrangements are entrusted to the care of the Mascho Funeral Home, Inc.
Memorial contributions in his memory can be made to Shriners Hospitals for Children—Erie Development and Donor Relations Department, 1645 West 8th Street, Erie, PA 16505 or the McKean County Special Olympics, P.O. Box 101, Bradford, PA 16701.
William Joseph (Bill) Walaski, 78, passed away on Thanksgiving Day, November 24, 2022, in Dallas, Texas.
Bill was born November 28, 1943, to Joseph M. and Gladys Davey Walaski in Coudersport, Pennsylvania. He was raised in a family of devote Catholics with two brothers and three sisters.
Growing up in Coudersport, he played basketball at Coudersport Area High School, worked various jobs including delivering newspapers and bagging peas at a local pea vinery, enjoyed watching wrestling and shooting pool with his friends. His small-town roots cultivated a strong work ethic and a deep love and respect for his family.
He joined the Army during the Vietnam War and was stationed at Fort Bliss in El Paso, Texas where he met and married his wife, Soledad. He had a strong affection for El Paso where he raised his family and worked as a Transportation Supervisor with the Southern Pacific and Union Pacific Railroads. Eventually retiring, he moved to Rockwall, Texas to be closer to his children and grandchildren.
Bill was charming, funny, and generous. He enjoyed long conversations with family and friends and was genuinely interested in listening. He assigned people clever nicknames, liked to tell stories, and never rushed a conversation. He listened to country music, played Yahtzee, watched football, NASCAR and the news, drank too much coffee and recycled anything he could get his hands on. He spoke his own language and did things his own way. Above all else, he was committed to providing for his family.
Whether he was Billy, Dad, Pops, Grandpa, Brother Bill or Uncle Bill, he will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Bill is survived by his wife of 56 years, Soledad M. Walaski, his son James Robert Walaski (Michelle) of McLendon-Chisholm, and daughter Rebecca Walaski Sabin (James Troy) of Lucas, TX; grandchildren Korie Lynn Walaski, Evan Sabin, and Ryan Sabin; siblings Delores Taylor, Jean Grom (Don), and Gary Walaski (Sue) and many nieces and nephews
He was preceded in death by his beloved mother and father, siblings James T. Walaski and Nancy W. Chitester.
Visitation will be held from 4 PM to 8 PM with a Rosary at 7:00 PM, Tuesday, December 6th at Rest Haven Funeral Home, 3701 Rowlett Road, Rowlett, TX 75088. Funeral Mass will be held at 10:30 AM, Wednesday, December 7, 2022, at Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church, 1305 Demascus Rd., Rockwall, TX 75087.
Interment will take place on Monday, December 12th at 9:30 AM at Fort Bliss National Cemetery in El Paso, Texas.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Corpus Christi Monastery, 451 Mockingbird Lane, El Paso, TX 79907.
Joel T. BLASS, 68, of Santa Barbara, CA, died Monday, November 7, 2022 in his home.
Born May 22, 1954, in West Reading, PA, he was the son of Lowell R. and Emilie Verone Holtzman Blass.
Joel loved riding the electric bike he built every single day. Most often, he went to the beach to read his books. He also loved building and working with computers, spending most all his working years in information technology. All his life he enjoyed being outside in beautiful environments.
Surviving are: a brother, Jeffery Blass of Parksville, MO; a sister, Betsy Haley of Dover, NH; cousins; a niece; and nephews.
In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his brother David J. Blass; and his step-mother, Elaine J. Blass.
A graveside service will be held in Yochum Hill Cemetery, Carter Camp, PA on a later date.
Arrangements are under the direction of Olney-Foust Funeral Homes & Crematory, Ulysses, PA. Online condolences may be expressed at www.olneyfoust.com.