Obituaries

Sharon L. Swartzfager, 81, of Smethport, PA passed away Wednesday (January 25, 2023) at her residence, surrounded by her children.

She was born November 19, 1941 in Cyclone, the daughter of John and Elizabeth (Powers) Swartzfager.

Sharon was a graduate of Smethport High School and was employed at Ethan Allen of Eldred for over 35 years.  She worked in home health care for Community Nurses, a profession well-suited to her caring nature.

She is survived by:

One daughter:  Deb (Jessica Lee) Fenstermaker of Washington, D.C.

Four sons:  Larry (Bonnie) Fenstermaker of Hesston, KS, Art (Pam) Fenstermaker of Smethport, Joe (Lori LaBella) Fenstermaker of Olean, NY, and Don (Darlene) Fenstermaker of Rochester, NH

Grandchildren: Joshua Fenstermaker, Olivia Blaylock, Debra Lynch, Breanna Fenstermaker, and Robbie Cornock

Several great grandchildren

Siblings:  Dorothy Maholic of Bradford, William Swartzfager of West Henrietta, NY, Mary O’Connell of Lewis Run, Dennis Swartzfager of New Bethlehem, PA and Julie Glenn of Ohio

In addition to her parents, Sharon was preceded in death by three brothers, Lawrence, John, and Brian Swartzfager, and sister Cindy Fitzgerald.

There will be no visitation.  Burial will be in Rose Hill Cemetery, Smethport.  A Celebration of Life will be held at the American Legion in Eldred, PA on Saturday, February 4 from 1 to 4.  

Memorials, if desired, may be made to VNA of Northwest PA, 1223 E. Main St., P.O. Box 465, Bradford, PA  16701 or the American Cancer Society (cancer.org).  Online condolences may be made at www.hartle-tarboxfuneralhomes.com.

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

Joseph J. Bennardi, 93, of 15 Bon Air Avenue, Bradford, PA passed away Wednesday, January 25, 2023, with his family at his side at UPMC Hamot.

Funeral arrangements are incomplete and under the direction of the Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes, Inc.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.hollenbeckcahill.com

S. Jeanne Daley passed away on January 24, 2023, at the Warren Manor on her 61^st wedding anniversary.

She was born in 1941 on St. Valentine’s Day in Kane, PA and lived in Wilcox, PA until her late parents- John and Sue Powley- moved to Warren to open a Nationwide Insurance Agency. Always known as “Jeanne”, she started working in high school creating window displays for the Betty Lee Women’s Fashion Store. Her creative art talents won her the Warren Art League Scholarship award in her senior year. Also in 1959, Jeanne was chosen Miss Warren County as part of the Jaycee’s annual July 4^th Celebration. That year she enrolled at Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, New York, majoring in fashion design, plus worked for Franklin Simon Department Store. She returned to Warren as print advertising manager of Betty Lee and also produced and hosted Betty Lee’s 10-minute daily radio show on WNAE.

In 1962 she married William F. Daley and began her favorite job in life- raising a family. Her never-quit philosophy was evident in going the extra mile, and she strived to instill this attitude as her family’s way of life. While awaiting her first child she decided to get a beautician’s license plus a license to teach the profession. Swimming was always her favorite exercise, so she became a certified as a lifeguard and then a lifeguard instructor. While her three children were high school athletes, she served a term on the Sports Booster Board of Directors. She also was certified as a PIAA swimming and diving official. As a volunteer at Warren State Hospital, she organized a girls Y-Teen Club for patients, culminating in their own talent show.

In 1988 Jeanne decided to become a realtor and of course, eventually a broker. She opened Howard Hanna Daley Real Estate, Inc. in June 2000. At one period Jeanne had a staff of 14 realtors. She retired in December 2021.

She is survived by her husband of 61 years, William “Bill” F. Daley, whom she married January 24, 1962, in Warren, PA., 2 children- Diane Hoffmann and husband, Dr. Ralph Hoffman of Charlotte, NC., Brendan Daley and wife, Maria Troyan Daley of Phoenix, AZ., 3 Siblings- Carol Duell and husband, Dr. Bruce Duell of Cranberry Township, PA., Margie Powley of Windsor, CO., Dr. John Powley of Mankato, Hawaii, 9 Grandchildren- Logan, Connor, Shannon and Brendan Hoffman; Jack Allison, Abbey and Brendan Daley, and Elley Trubic Marshall, 1 Great Grandson- Brooks Aholt.

In Addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her daughter, Shannon Daley Trubic on August 8, 1994.

Friends may call at Holy Redeemer Church Gathering Space, 11 Russell St., Warren, PA., on Saturday, January 28, 2023, from 10:00 to 11:00 AM at which time a Mass of Christian Burial will be conducted by Fr. Stephen Schreiber, Pastor, officiating. Interment will be in St. Joseph R.C. Cemetery, Warren, PA. Those wishing to place memorial contributions may be made through Susan G. Komen Foundation, 13770 Noe Road, Suite 801889, Dallas, TX 75380, a favorite charity of Jeanne because of her late daughter Shannon’s- illness, or email condolences may be sent by visiting www.lewisfuneralhomeinc.com. The Donald E. Lewis Funeral Home, Inc. has been entrusted with the arrangements.

Peter B. Gorda, age 88, of Wellsboro, PA, passed away on Tuesday, January 24^th, 2023.   He was the son of Alexander Sr. and Anna Nemerovich Gorda.

Pete lived nearly all of his life in Welsh Settlement and was a graduate of Charleston High School.

Pete had his own construction business for over 20 years. He worked and lived in Messenia, NY for multiple years while working on the Eisenhower Locks on the St. Lawrence Seaway. He also worked for the Wellsboro Electric Company for many years. Pete was a member the International Bricklayers Union.

Pete was inducted into the Tioga County Sports Hall of Fame in 2002 for basketball recognizing his career at Charleston High School. He was also an avid spectator of his families’ sporting events.

His interests included fishing, collecting, restoring old houses, mowing lawn on his John Deere and being outside to experience nature and campfires. 

Pete is survived by his 5 children: Tonya (Tom) McNamara of Blossburg, PA, Rhett (Jeannette) Gorda of Fairbanks, AK, Julie (Aaron Graham) Gorda of Louisville, KY, Aimee (Mark) Sapita of Altoona, PA, Carrie (Matthew) Gorda of Seattle, WA. And, in addition, his sister Lovie (Thomas) Cunningham of Elmira, NY as well as many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. He is proceeded in death by his 1st wife, Phyllis Gorda, his brothers Paul and Alexander, Jr. and sister, Dorothy Miller.

Friends and family are invited to pay tribute to Peter’s life from 6-8pm Tuesday, January 31, 2023 at the Tussey-Mosher Funeral Home, 139 Main Street, Wellsboro, PA 16901. 

His family has entrusted the Tussey-Mosher Funeral Home with his arrangements, to share a memory or condolence with his family, visit www.tusseymosher.com.

Judith A. Lynch, 80, of Route 666, outside of Sheffield, PA passed away early Tuesday morning (Jan. 24)  at her residence.  She was born in Erie on July 10, 1942, the daughter of the late Harry and Irma (Orr) McClelland.  On Aug. 29, 1992, in Girard, she married Robert Lynch, who survives.

Prior to living in the Sheffield area, Mrs. Lynch had lived in Girard.  She attended the University of Buffalo and received her BSN.  She had worked as a registered nurse at Warren Family Practice and had also worked at Girard Family Practice and the Elk Valley Medical Center in Girard.  She was a member of the Kushequa Union Church and also the First Baptist Church of Kane.

In addition to her husband, she is survived by one daughter, Holly (Stacy) Shaffer of Sheffield; two sons, Steven (Carrie) Pier of Wake Forest, NC and David Pier of Girard; Ray (Kathy) Langworthy of Warren, whom she loved like a son; Lisa Arrieta of Miami, FL, whom she loved like a daughter; one sister Barb (Ron) Wygant of Girard; six grandchildren, Chloe Shaffer, Olivia Shaffer, Miles Pier, Addyson Pier, Stanton Pier and Noah Pier; and four nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

Friends are invited to attend visitations which will take place on Thursday (Jan. 26) at the Cummings Funeral Home from 2:00-4:00 p.m. and 7:00-9:00 p.m.  A funeral ceremony will take place on Friday (Jan. 27) at 11:00 a.m., at the First Baptist Church of Kane, with the Rev. Bruce Kumher, officiating.  Burial will follow in Barnes Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers the family asks that Memorial Donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105-1905.

Online condolences can be expressed at www.cummingsfh.com.

Marilyn J. Slagle, 96, of Mechanic Street, Eldred, PA passed away Saturday (Jan. 21, 2023) at Sena Kean Manor.

Born Nov. 6, 1926, she was the daughter of Peter C. Leffler and Marjorie Ostrander Leffler. In 1961 she married Leonard Slagle, who preceded her in death in 2000. She had one sister, Dorothy Leffler Mraz, who died in 1970.

Marilyn was a lifelong resident of Eldred. She worked as an administrative assistant for WA Grow Insurance until her retirement in 1981.

She formerly was involved in the Eldred United Methodist Church and Camp Penuel. She always had a cat.

Surviving are Jacquelyn (Glenn) Cavanaugh of Greensburg; Samuel “Jim” (Scilene) Mraz of Latrobe; great-niece, Carolyn Mraz of Los Angeles Calif.; great-nephew, David (Alexis) Mraz of Philadelphia; and their son, Maxwell.

Visitation will be held from 10 a.m. until noon today (Jan. 25, 2023) at the Frame Funeral Home, Eldred, at which time a service will be held with Pastor Bruce Ireland officiating. Burial will be in Lamphier Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Eldred Ambulance Fund.

Online condolences may be made at www.framefuneralhome.com.

Stevie Nicole Mann, 31, of St. Marys, PA died unexpectedly on Sunday, January 15, 2023. She was born on October 8, 1991 in St. Marys, a daughter of DeAnna Brooks of St. Marys and Stephen F. Mann of Wilcox.
Stevie attended Johnsonburg Schools and graduated from Agora Charter School in 2012. She took great pride in her work ethic; while still in high school, she worked three jobs – including catering, BiLo in Johnsonburg and Osram-Sylvania. She was also an Enrichment Student and she and her family were thrilled when she was accepted into the University of Pittsburgh main campus as a freshman to pursue a four-year History Degree, which she was just a few credits shy of completing.

To know Stevie, was to know how she loved her children.

She loved Alternative Music, reading, and was a fan of famous Skateboarder, Nyjah [Ny-Jah] Huston, whom she named her son.

After living in Pittsburgh for four years, she had a heart for the city and was an avid Pittsburgh sports fan. She took great pleasure in watching and following the Steelers, Pirates, and Penguins and could talk stats and knew the players as well as the best of them.

During her adolescent and teen years, Stevie loved enjoying summers in Florida with her Aunt Cristal, her sister Kaysie and brother Michael. She loved the ocean and the beach.

Not just a pretty face with a beautiful heart, Stevie was extremely intelligent. She loved deep, intellectually stimulating conversations, and cared deeply for her loved ones and those she connected with.

Along with her parents, Stevie is survived by her son, Nyjah; her daughter, Amiyah; her brother, Michael Cherry; her grandmother, Jean Brooks; her grandfather, Michael Spangler; a special aunt, Cristal Brooks; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. She was predeceased by: a sister, Kaysie Mann; and grandparents, Roger and Noreen Mann, Louis Brooks and Gloria Spangler.

There will be a memorial service for Stevie at a time convenience for the family.

There will be no visitation.
The family suggests memorials to The Mecca-Mann Mission, Inc.

A Mass of Christian burial for Patricia F. McAnallen will be held on January 28, at 10 AM in St. Elizabeth of Hungary Parish, Smethport with a luncheon and Celebration of Life to follow.  Pat passed away on December 19, 2022.

The full obituary can be found at www.hartle-tarboxfuneralhomes.com.  Arrangements are under the direction of the Hartle-Tarbox Funeral Homes, Inc., Smethport, PA.

Geraldine R. Shepherd, 89, of Bradford, passed away on Monday, January 23, 2023 at her home.

She was born on June 19, 1935 in Brockway to Orvetta Starr Miller.

She was the widow of Lee A. Shepherd who preceded her in death on November 6, 1991.

She is survived by five children, Patricia Coleman of Belmont, NY, Jack Peterson, Jr. of Bradford, Wendy (James) Gonzales of Erie, Sharon (Kevin) Pire of Bradford and Timothy (Kelly Holcomb) Peterson of Bradford; four stepchildren, Lee Allen Shepherd of Friendship, NY, Maryanne Shepherd of Houghton, NY, Philip Shepherd of Westfield and Frankie (Richard) Fredrick of DuBois; one sister, Joanne Hills of DuBois and many grandchildren, great grandchildren, great great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

In addition to her mother and husband she was also preceded in death by one son, Brian Peterson, one son-in-law, John Coleman, one grandson, Simon Dowell, one sister and two brothers.

Private graveside services will be held at Willow Dale Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Funeral arrangements are entrusted to the care of the Mascho Funeral Home, Inc.  

Online Condolences can be expressed at www.maschofuneral.com.

Barbara A. ECK, 66, of Wellsville, NY, died Monday, January 23, 2023 in her home.  

Born January 28, 1956, in Olean, she was the daughter of Arvis and Dorothy James Bellamy.  A graduate of Oswayo Valley High School in Shinglehouse, PA, she was employed by Olean Tile Co., The Store in Scio, and retired from Steuben Trust Company in Wellsville.  Barb enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren. 

Surviving are:  her children, Christina (Anson) Beckwith of Bolivar, Clayton (Beth) Eck and Cory Eck, both of Wellsville; eight grandchildren, Adacyn, Quinton, Nathan, Greyson, Ari, Paige, Sommer, and Lennox; five siblings, Ann (Scott) Pequeen of OK, Bonnie (Dale) Bellamy of Hinsdale, Penny (Eric Wagner) Bellamy of Allegany, Jeffrey Bellamy of OK, and Arvis “Bud” Bellamy, Jr. of Hinsdale; nieces and nephews. 

She was predeceased by her parents; and her former husband, Michael T. Eck.  A memorial gathering will be held on a later date.  Burial will be in Fairlawn Cemetery, Scio.  

Memorials may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.  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 J. Bernheisel, 79, of 2 South Avenue, Bradford, passed away Tuesday, January 24, 2023, at The Pavilion. 

Born March 13, 1943, in Bradford, she was a daughter of the late Herman E. and Lorraine Harriett (Sloppy) Black.

Barb was a 1962 graduate of Bradford Area High School.

She worked at Mister Donut, in Olean, and in housekeeping at St. Francis Hospital for many years and later worked at Walmart as a stock clerk.

Barb enjoyed spending time crocheting, baking, and was an avid bingo player.

Surviving are one daughter, Sharon Foster, of Bradford, three sons, John Bernheisel, of VA, Daniel (Laurie) Bernheisel, of Allegany, NY, and Michael (Shannon) Bernheisel, of Granite City, IL, one sister, Kathy Bryant, of Bradford, nine grandchildren, Jacob, Casey, Brittany, Caitlin, Alex, Anthony, Natasha, Nichole, and Makayla, three great grandchildren, Nevaeh, Caden, and Greyson.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

Family will receive friends on Monday, January 30, 2023, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at the Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes Inc., 33 South Avenue, at Noon funeral services will be held with Fr. Jim Gutting, of St. Bernard Church, officiating.  Burial will be in McKean Memorial Park.

Memorial contributions, if desired, may be made to the American Cancer Society, 2115 West 38th Street., Erie, PA 16508

Online condolences may be expressed at www.hollenbeckcahill.com

Sandra R. Wright RAMSEY, 82, of Belfast, NY, formerly of Scio, died Monday, January 23, 2023 in Jones Memorial Hospital, Wellsville. 

Born December 6, 1940, in Wellsville, she was the daughter of Clarence and Dorothy Harms Grossman.  In 1965, she married Clayton Wright, who predeceased her on January 3, 1993.  On December 1, 2012, in Wellsville, she married Ernest H. Ramsey, who predeceased her on July 17, 2013.  A graduate of Wellsville High School, she was employed by Eastside Garage in Angelica and Belmont, numerous auto parts stores, including Tyler’s Yamaha in Caneadea and Fred Roberts Auto Parts.  She retired from Alfred State in the automotive parts department.  Sandy was a member of the Trinity Lutheran Church in Wellsville, the Farm Bureau, Angelica Fair Board, past Belfast Town Clerk, and the Belfast Fire Auxiliary. 

Surviving are:  a son, Lew (Rebecca) Wright of Belfast;  two step-sons, James Ramsey of Scio and John (Alissa) Ramsey of Wellsville;  a grandson, Clayton “CJ” Wright of Belfast;  a sister, Betty (Marvin) Wood of Wellsville;  nieces and nephews. 

In addition to her husband, she was predeceased by a step-daughter, Jennette A. Ramsey;  and two brothers, Carl Grossman and Robert Grossman. 

Friends may call at First Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church, 470 North Main Street, Wellsville, on Saturday, January 28, 2023 from 1:00 – 2:00 PM, with Funeral Services following at 2:00 PM.  The Rev. Dr. Eric Ash will officiate.  Burial will be in Fairlawn Cemetery, Scio. 

Memorials may be made to First Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church, 470 North Main Street, Wellsville, NY 14895.  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.

Helen M. “Coby” Keesler, 88, of Hazel Hurst, passed away Monday (January 23, 2023) at her residence.

She was born May 10, 1934 in Drummond, PA, the daughter of Robert and Marie Uhl Henry. On March 12, 1955, in St. Joseph Catholic Church, Mt. Jewett, she married Paul Richard “Dick” Keesler, who died December 28, 2021.

“Coby” worked earlier in life at several locations in the area.  She was employed at The Colonial in Smethport for a period of time, then worked at The Old Kettle, and finally worked in the cafeteria of the Hazel Hurst Elementary School.  She ultimately enjoyed being a homemaker for family, friends and anyone who would come through the door.

She was an avid bowler and enjoyed crosswords.

She is survived by:

One daughter:  Debra L. Keesler of Hazel Hurst

Two sons:  Robert L. Keesler of Hazel Hurst and Paul R. Keesler, Jr. of Kane

One granddaughter:  Dawn Stoddard

One great granddaughter: Mya Stoddard

And several nieces and nephews

In addition to her parents and husband, Coby was preceded in death by three sisters and two brothers.

There will be no visitation or services. 

Memorials, if desired, may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.  Online condolences may be made at www.hartle-tarboxfuneralhomes.com.

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

Harold C. “Hank” Jones, age 89, of Wellsboro, PA, died on Monday, January 23, 2023. 

He was born on September 23, 2933 in Oswayo, PA. a son of the late John P. and Delma (Bettinger) Jones and was married for 35 years to Marsha (Ballinger) Jones. 

Hank was a self employed logger for many years.  He was a hard worker and enjoyed mowing lawn, cutting wood, and was an amazing carpenter making furniture and cabinets. 

A family graveside service will be held on Friday, January 27, 2023 at the Wells Cemetery, Oswayo, PA.  

Arrangements are entrusted to the Carleton Funeral Home, Inc. www.carletonfh.com Wellsboro, PA.

S. Jeanne Daley, 82, of Warren, PA., died Tuesday, January 24, 2023. 

A complete obituary will be announced when available through the Donald E. Lewis Funeral Home, Inc., Warren, PA.

Cheri L. Schreiber, 33, of New Port Richey, FL, and formerly of St. Marys, PA passed away on Sunday, January 22, 2023 following a year-long battle with cancer.

She was born on November 1, 1989 in St. Marys, PA, a daughter of Robert and Patricia Scutella Haberberger, who survive of Palm Harbor, FL.

On July 7, 2017, she married Thomas “TJ” Schreiber, who survives of New Port Richey.
Together they were blessed with love, laughter, and their beautiful daughter, Wynter.

Cheri was a graduate of St. Marys Area High School, class of 2008, where she was also active with the Swim and Dive Team. She was a graduate of the Toni and Guy School of Cosmetology in Erie, and had worked the past years as a medical receptionist at the St. Marys hospital and at a medical office in New Port Richey. In her free time, she enjoyed arts, crafts, swimming, and spending time at the beach.

In addition to her parents and husband, she is survived by her beloved daughter; Wynter Schreiber; by two sisters; Kelly (Michael) Doerfler and Suzanne (JD) Overturf, and by her in-laws; Benjamin and Diane Schreiber.

Cheri was preceded in death by her maternal grandparents; Anthony and Jane Scutella, and by her paternal grandparents; Robert and Dorothea Haberberger.

Funeral Services for Cheri L. Schreiber will be held on Tuesday, January 31, 2023 at 11:00 AM at Lynch-Green Funeral Home with Ginger Gardner officiating. Burial will follow in Wardvale Cemetery in Johnsonburg.

Visitation will be held at the Lynch-Green Funeral Home on Tuesday, January 31, 2023 from 10:00 AM until the time of the service.

Memorial Contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society.

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

H. LaVonne BLAIR, 87, of Genesee, PA, died Monday, January 23, 2023 in Olean General Hospital, Olean, NY.  

Born November 18, 1935, in Pitcairn, she was the daughter of Ellsworth C. “Pete” and Hazel R. Wilson Hysong.  On January 29, 1955, in Winchester, VA, she married Robert E. Blair, who predeceased her on March 22, 2002.  

A former resident of Irwin, PA, she resided in Genesee since 1971.  She was employed by Galeton Production and at Ole Bull State Park for 15 years.  LaVonne served as a volunteer at Cole Memorial Hospital and Sweden Valley Manor.  

Surviving are:  a daughter, Cheryl Young of Genesee;  two granddaughters, Jaime (Robert) Stiles of Eldred, PA and Pamela (David) Seifert of Fredericksburg, VA;  four great-grandchildren, Zachary Seifert, Caleb Seifert, Riley Stiles, and Ethan Stiles;  nieces and nephews. 

 In addition to her husband, she was predeceased by a son-in-law, Michael Young;  and two brothers, Earl Hysong and Ray Hysong.  

Friends may call Friday, January 27, 2023 from 2:00 – 5:00 PM at Olney-Foust Funeral Homes & Crematory, Ulysses, PA, where Funeral Services will be held on Saturday at 11:00 AM.  Rev. Rob Anderson will officiate.  Burial will be in Genesee Cemetery.  

Memorials may be made to Mills Union Church, P.O. Box 11, Mills, PA 16937.  Online condolences may be expressed at www.olneyfoust.com.

COUDERSPORT, Pa.—Please join family and friends on Saturday, January 28, 2023, from 12 noon to 3pm for a Celebration of Life for Maxine Parrish, 70, a lifelong resident of Coudersport, at the Coudersport American Legion.  Lunch will be served by the Auxiliary.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Maxine’s name to the Ladies Auxiliary of Potter Post 192, 2 Buffalo Street, Coudersport, PA 16915.

Maxine’s family entrusted her care to Kevin J. Dusenbury, funeral director/owner of the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse.

For further information, please visit www.virgillhowardfuneralhome.com

“beloved mother, grandmother, mother-in-law, and aunt”

Ruth N. Clark, 80, a lifelong resident of Coudersport, PA passed away with her loving family by her side on Saturday, January 21, 2023, in UPMC Susquehanna Williamsport, after a short illness.

Born on Sunday, April 26, 1942 in Coudersport, she was a daughter of Warren E. and Kathryn Thompson Bryington. On August 28, 1993 in Port Allegany, she married Richard A. “Dick” Clark, who passed away on October 23, 2004.

Ruth was a graduate of Coudersport High School. She held various positions throughout the years, her last one being a well tender in the field for Dominion Gas in Ellisburg, retiring after 17 years of service.  Ruth loved her job, only retiring to spend time with her husband in his retirement.

She was instrumental in establishing the 4-H Club, the Rough Riders, in Coudersport with her best friend, Ruth Wilson of Coudersport, where they taught the members how to care for their horses. They also took members to ride in local parades and compete at various fairs.  The “Ruths” also established the Double R Tack Shop so the members could get supplies for their horses. She enjoyed camping, boating, her flowers and plants, and gathering her family together.  She also enjoyed hunting and was an excellent marksman.  Ruth loved her horses.  Her greatest love was her family.

Left to cherish her memory are her daughter, Kimberly S. “Kim” (George) Green of Roulette; her daughter-in-law, Lena M. Clark of Coudersport; six grandchildren, Stephanie Green, Travis (Nicole) Green, Kandice (Jason) Gross, Jessica (Travis) Paddison, Terry “Mason” (Megan) Clark, and Ashley K. Simar; eleven great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents and husband, Ruth was predeceased by her son, Terry R. Clark, who passed away on November 26, 2022; two sisters, Olive Drabert and Virginia Ninkovich; two brothers, Robert “Bob” Bryington and infant Stanley Bryington.

In keeping with Ruth’s wishes, there will be no public visitation or funeral services.  Burial will be in the Ulysses Cemetery with her husband.

Flowers are gratefully declined. Memorials in Ruth’s name may be made to the Coudersport Volunteer Ambulance Association, PO Box 651, Coudersport, PA 16915.

Ruth’s family has entrusted her care and cremation arrangements to Kevin J. Dusenbury, funeral director/owner of the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse.

To express condolences, light a candle, or share a fond memory of Ruth, please visit www.virgillhowardfuneralhome.com or the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home Facebook page.

Lee W. L. Finster, 79, of Coudersport, formerly of Roulette, PA passed away on Friday, January 20, 2023, in UPMC Cole, Coudersport, after a long illness.

Born on Friday, October 15, 1943 in Buffalo, N.Y., he was a son of Joseph G. and Ernestine V. Hyde Finster.  On October 12, 2002 in Shinglehouse, he married Georgia Ellen Shenberger, who passed away on July 5, 2020.

Lee graduated from Warren High School in Warren and had attended Erie Business School in Erie.  He had been employed by the former Damascus Tannery in Coudersport and by the former Pittsburgh Corning Glass Plant in Port Allegany.

Lee was a former member of the Sons of the American Legion.  He enjoyed writing. He loved animals, traveling, and staying home to watch TV.

Surviving are two brothers, George A. (Tonya) Finster of Roulette and David M. Finster of Auburn, N.Y.; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents and wife, Lee was predeceased by a brother, James Alan Finster; and a sister, Marie M. Russell.

In keeping with Lee’s wishes, there will be no public visitation or funeral services.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.

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

To express condolences, light a candle, or share a fond memory of Lee, please visit www.virgillhowardfuneralhome.com or the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home Facebook page.

Joseph C. “Joe” Goetz, 82, of St. Marys, PA passed away at his home on Sunday, January 22, 2023, following a lengthy illness.

He was born on October 30, 1940 in Ridgway, PA, a son of the late Alphonse and Mary Hasselman Goetz. On November 8, 1959, in St. Marys Church, he married the love of his life, Dorothy Portzer Goetz, who survives. Together they were blessed with more than 63 years of marriage.

Joe was a lifelong resident of the area and member of St. Marys Church. He was a talented Master Carpenter, having created many pieces of custom-made works of art over the years. Having built his home from the ground up, he spent his time filling it not only with love and compassion for his wife and family, but with many beautiful displays of cabinets, furniture, and keepsakes.

A kind, loving man of deep faith, he was a devoted father and husband who loved and appreciated his family and spent his days honoring his wife. He also had a passion for animals, and he delighted in spoiling his 2 cats, Lilly and Cutie.

In addition to his wife of 63 years, Dorothy Portzer Goetz, he is survived by 3 daughters; Denise “Dee” (Rick) Danner of Emporium, Tama (Joe) Foster of St. Marys, and Lynnette “Lynn” (Marty) Reuscher of Knoxville, TN; and by 3 beloved grandchildren; Joe, Alec, and Courtney. He is also survived by 2 great-grandchildren; Bently and Kaden as well as by a sister; Grace Cocoran of CA, and by numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Joe was preceded in death by a great-granddaughter; Kaylee Hostetlar, a brother; Theodore Goetz, a sister; Rita Kubaski, and by an aunt and uncle who helped raise him; Clarence Goetz and Martha Goetz.

A Mass of Christian Burial for Joseph C. Goetz will be celebrated on Friday, January 27, 2023 at 10:00 AM at St. Marys Church, 315 Church Street, St. Marys, PA 15857 with Fr. Thomas More Sikora, OSB, as celebrant.

Burial will follow in the St. Marys Catholic Cemetery.

Family and friends will be received at the St. Marys Church on Friday, January 27, 2023 from 9:30 AM until the time of the Mass.

Memorial Contributions may be made to the St. Marys Church or to the Elk County Humane Society.
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

Helen M. “Coby” Keesler, 88, of Hazel Hurst, PA passed away at her home on Monday, January 23, 2023.

A full obituary will be announced by the Hartle-Tarbox Funeral Homes, Inc., Smethport.

Patrick Weakland passed away peacefully on December 21, 2022 at home with family,

following a brief illness.

Pat was born on November 4, 1934 in Chest Springs, Pennsylvania, to Helen (Sherry) and Modestus Weakland, the oldest of their ten children.

On October 17, 1953, he married his high school sweetheart, Malvina Westrick, who passed away

in May of 2022. They were married for 68 years.

In the late 50’s they moved to Hamburg, New York, where they lived for over 40 years and raised six children. Pat worked as a professional landscaper for Turtle’s Nursery for over 25 years and later, retired after  20 years at the Ford Stamping Plant.

He was an avid hunter and a life long fan of the Buffalo Bills. He also loved classic John Deere tractors, woodworking, tinkering, classic country music and spoiling his canine friends.

Pat and Mally retired to Mount Jewett, PA in 1996 and lived there for 20 years before moving to Boerne, Texas.

Whether it was putting in a vegetable garden, tending to his flowers and shrubs, or helping out a neighbor, he never sat still long. He was generous with his time and talents, sharing them with his family, friends and his church.

In addition to his wife, Mally, he was a preceded in death by his son, Amandus, his brother, Roy and his sister, Elizabeth “Betty” Brennan.

He is survived by five children: Karen (Del) Eulberg, Boerne, TX; Lucinda Weakland, Harrison Valley, PA; Wayne (Anna) Weakland, Petrolia, WV; Jeanette (Mark) Ernewein, Hamburg, NY; and Judi Kogler, Hamburg, NY; 10 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

He is also survived by three brothers: Earl Weakland, Harvey Weakland and Robert Weakland, and four sisters: Edna Miller, Stella Kline, Verna Petrie,  Dorothy Teribury.

A funeral mass / a celebration of life will be held at St. Elizabeth of Hungary Catholic Church in Smethport on March 25^th at 11:00 a.m. preceded by a rosary at 10:00 a.m.

Ruth N. Clark, 80, a lifelong resident of Coudersport, passed away with her loving family by her side on Saturday, January 21, 2023, in UPMC Susquehanna Williamsport, 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.

Marion E. VANORDEN, 94, of Westfield, PA, died Saturday, January 21, 2023 in Sweden Valley Manor, Coudersport.  

Born December 29, 1928, in Westfield, she was the daughter of Arthur L. and Grace E. Nickerson Seeley.  She was a homemaker and a lifelong area resident.  

Surviving are:  three children, Donna Glover of Coudersport, Richard Seeley of Addison, NY, and Debbie Williams of Plymouth, VA;  several grandchildren including Christina Glover of Coudersport;  a brother, Franklin (Sharon) Seeley of Westfield;  and many nieces and nephews.  

She was predeceased by her husband, Richard Vanorden;  a son, Matthew Smith;  four brothers, Clayton Seeley, Floyd Seeley, Lawrence H. Seeley, and Dee Seeley;  and four sisters, Evelyn Jadoski, Maryetta Ruth Seeley, Lula Causer, and Pauline Williams Buchholz.  

Services will be private.  Burial will be in Champlin Cemetery, Westfield, PA.  Arrangements are under the direction of Olney-Foust Funeral Homes & Crematory, Ulysses, PA.  Online condolences may be expressed at www.olneyfoust.com.

Herbert C. “Herbie” Nussbaum, Jr., 73, formerly of Poplar Road, St. Marys, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, January 22, 2023, at Penn Highlands Elk following a brief illness.

He was born on February 17, 1949 in St. Marys, a son of the Herbert and Edna Thompson Nussbaum.
On April 19, 1973, at St. Marys, he married the late Sandra Kephart, who preceded him in death on February 16, 2021. Together they shared nearly 48 years of marriage.

Herbie was a lifelong resident of the area and was Catholic by faith. He worked for many years at the lumber mill. In his free time, he enjoyed hunting, fishing, and camping. Most of all, he loved spending time with his family, especially his great-niece and great-nephew.

He is survived by a brother; Roger Nussbaum of Johnsonburg, and by a sister; Wanda Fulton of Johnsonburg, as well as by several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents and his wife, he was preceded in death by a son; Herbert “Butch” Nussbaum in 2020, a daughter; Jean Marie Nussbaum in 1976, and by a brother; Lester Nussbaum.

A Memorial Service for Herbert C. “Herbie” Nussbaum will be held on Monday, January 30, 2023 at 11:00 AM at Lynch-Green Funeral Home.

Family and friends will be received on Monday, January 30, 2023 at Lynch-Green Funeral Home from 10:00 AM until the time of service.

Memorial Contributions may be made to Penn Highlands Community Nurses.

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

Thomas C. Nellis, Jr., 49, of Brockway, PA passed away unexpectedly at his home on Saturday, January 21, 2023.
He was born on August 8, 1973 in St. Marys, PA, a son of Thomas Nellis of Emporium and the late LouAnn Botera Nellis, who preceded him in death on July 19, 2021.

On August 10, 1994 in Emporium, he married Amy Burkey Nellis, who survives.

Tom was a member of Sacred Heart Church and spent many years working outdoors, always enjoying farming and logging. He also enjoyed spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren.

In addition to his wife of more than 28 years, Amy Burkey Nellis, he is survived by 2 children; Devin Thomas Nellis of Ridgway and Darien Heather (Brandon Martz) Nellis of Eldred; and by his 2 beloved grandchildren; Brentley and Moxson.
He is also survived by four siblings; Tammy (Lee) Pearsall, Fantasia (Frank) Dourado, Brittany McKelvey, and Nicholas (Heather) Nellis, as well as by numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews.

In addition to his mother, he was preceded in death by his maternal and paternal grandparents.

A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial for Thomas C. Nellis, Jr. will be celebrated on Friday, January 27, 2023 at 12:00 PM at Sacred Heart Church, 337 Center Street, St. Marys, PA 15857 with Fr. Thomas Curry, OSB, as celebrant.

Burial will be in the St. Marys Catholic Cemetery.

There will be no visitation.

Memorial Contributions may be made to American Behcet’s Disease Association or to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.

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

Cherie L. Schreiber, 33, of New Port Richey, FL, and formerly of St. Marys, PA died on Sunday, January 22, 2023 following a year long battle with cancer. Funeral arrangements are incomplete and are under the direction of the Lynch-Green Funeral Home.

H. LaVonne BLAIR, 87, of Genesee, PA, died Monday, January 23, 2023 in Olean General Hospital, Olean, NY.  

Arrangements will be announced by Olney-Foust Funeral Homes & Crematory, Ulysses, PA.  Online condolences may be expressed at www.olneyfoust.com.

Marilyn J. Slagle, 96, of Mechanic Street, Eldred, PA passed away on Saturday (January 21, 2023) at the Sena Kean Manor in Smethport.

Arrangements are incomplete and under the direction of the Frame Funeral Home, Eldred. A complete obituary will follow.