Joshua Stuart SILSBY, 31, of Andrews Settlement, PA, died Friday, February 10, 2023.
Friends may call at Olney-Foust Funeral Homes & Crematory, Ulysses, PA on Sunday, February 19, 2023 from 6:00 – 8:00 PM, with Funeral Services following at 8:00 PM. Rev. Joseph V. Dougherty will officiate.
Wayne S. ERWAY, 80, of Genesee, PA, died Monday, February 13, 2023.
Friends may call Friday, February 17, 2023 from 4:00 – 7:00 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 Genesee Methodist Church, P.O. Box 137, Genesee, PA 16923, SonShine Charitable Fund, 8921 Shumla Road, Fredonia, NY 14063 or online at www.sonshinefund.com, or Headwaters FFA, Northern Potter School District, 745 Northern Potter Road, Ulysses, PA 16948.
Floyd K. “Gus” Nelson, age 95, of Milton, DE passed away peacefully on January 29, 2023. Born in Bradford, PA he was the son of the late Floyd and Isabelle (Giles) Nelson of Bradford, PA.
Floyd worked for Dresser and Plexowood Manufacturing in Bradford, PA prior to retirement and moving to Delaware. He was a proud veteran, stationed at Camp Perry during WWII while serving his country in the Unites States Navy. He was a 32nd Degree Free and Accepted Mason.
Floyd was an avid outdoorsman who loved to hunt deer from his hunting lodge. He was a master craftsman who built all his homes with his wife, Anna, by his side. Earlier in their marriage, Floyd and Anna enjoyed travel and together they explored and discovered much of the wonders of the United States together. He was a friend to many, ready to lend a helping hand. Floyd believed in helping those who may not be able to help themselves and he dedicated many hours to charity work – quietly and without seeking recognition. His devotion to his family, however, took precedence above all and the time spent with those he held dear was what he cherished most. He was a loving a devoted husband, father, grandfather, uncle, Mason, and friend who will be deeply missed by those that knew and loved him.
He was the loving husband of Anna Marsh Nelson for 67 years at the time of her death. Floyd is survived by three of his six children: Judy (George), Floyd (Kathy) and Joann. Floyd also is survived by his remaining sibling, Margaret Angevine of Warren, PA. Also surviving are his grandchildren – all of whom he loved dearly, and many nieces and nephews who fondly called him “Uncle Gus”.
The family would like to thank Harbor Health Care and Rehabilitation of Lewes, DE for all the love and care they provided for Floyd the past few years.
Irvin S. Pontious, 81, of Cuneo Road, Kersey, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, February 15, 2023, at Penn Highlands Dubois.
Krise Funeral Home and Cremation Services-Kersey, 339 Main Street, Kersey, PA 15846 is handling the arrangements and online condolences may be offered to the family at www.krisefuneralhome.com
Joseph Michael Flint, 65, of Port Allegany, died Wednesday (February 15, 2023) at his home, with family by his side, in Port Allegany.
Arrangements are under the direction of the Hartle-Tarbox Funeral Homes, Inc., Port Allegany are incomplete and will be announced with a full obituary.
Fred Robinson, 87, of Bradford, passed away February 14, 2023.
Born on December 16, 1935, in Kane, he was a son of the late Pearle and Irene (Legters) Robinson. He was a veteran of the United States Navy.
He was a 1954 graduate of Bradford Area High School, and attended Buffalo Christian Academy.
Fred worked for Airco Speer, Quaker State, and Pepperell Braiding.
He enjoyed reading his bible, gardening, fishing, and bowling.
Surviving is his wife of 57 years, Judy (Eldridge) Robinson, one daughter, Jodi (Mark) Smith, of Sugar Valley GA, one son, Brian Robinson, of Bradford, one brother, Rev. Ron Robinson, of Georgetown, TX, four grandchildren and one great grandchild.
He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, George Robinson.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
Memorial contributions, if desired, may be made to the Bradford Manor Alzheimer’s Unit or Sawyer Evangelical Church.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes Inc.
Max C. Gauthier, 31, of Bradford, passed away on Thursday, February 9, 2023.
He was born on January 26, 1992 in Olean, NY; a son of Christine Deems Hallowell.
He was a graduate of the Ashville BOCES, Ashville, NY.
Max enjoyed playing Dungeons & Dragons and various card games. He also enjoyed building computers and creating, printing and painting gaming miniatures.
He was currently employed by Kabob’s at the Option House as a cook.
In addition to his mother Christine Hallowell of Salamanca he is also survived by one sister, Kiera Hallowell of Bradford; one brother, Mackenzie Kuhn of Olean, NY; maternal grandparents, Nancy Deems of Bradford and Bill Deems of Limestone, NY; paternal grandparents, John (Bonnie) Walker of Bradford; one uncle, Michael Deems; one stepsister, Caitlin Hallowell of Great Valley, NY; stepfather, Scott Hallowell of Cattaraugus, NY and many close friends.
A celebration of life for Max will be held on Thursday, February 23, 2023 at 5:00 PM in the Mascho Funeral Home, Inc. with the Rev. Ricky Price, pastor of the Church of Christ, officiating.
Memorial contributions in his memory can be made to Autism Speaks, 1060 State Road, Second Floor, Princeton, NJ 08540 or to American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), 199 Water Street, 11th Floor, New York, NY 10038.
Funeral arrangements are entrusted to the care of the Mascho Funeral Home, Inc.
Dorothy L. “Dot” Holsopple, 82, a lifelong resident of Austin, PA went to be with the Lord, February 12, 2023, with her family by her side.
Dorothy was born July 14, 1940, the daughter of the late George and Alvina (Kornaski) Lininger.
Dorothy was a graduate of Austin Area high School, Class of 1958. Soon after graduation she met and married the love of her life, Charles “Sonny” Holsopple who preceded her in death on March 10, 1999.
Dorothy spent her life doing what she loved the most, laundry, cooking, babysitting, and most of all taking care of the ones she dearly loved.
Dorothy is survived by a son, Joseph Holsopple of Austin; granddaughters, Ratchel (Jeff) Huss of Port Allegany; Brooklyn Danowski of Rew; and Kendra Keck of Bath, NY; a daughter-in-law, Becky Holsopple of bath NY; an unofficial granddaughter, Jessica (Tom) Reed of Bradford; 5 great granddaughters, Breanna Shephard, Bella Huss, and Rory Huss all of Port Allegany; Remilyn Danowski of Rew; and Ryleigh Barber of Bradford; and a Godson, Jamie (Teia) Van Horn of Port Allegany, who Dorothy loved as her own. She is also survived by two brothers, Fred of Florida; and Tom of Mt. Jewett; a sister, Rita of Eldred; as well as many cousins, nieces and nephews.
In addition to her husband and parents, Dorothy was preceded in death by two sisters, Jeanie and Marie and two brothers, Kenneth and Richard.
There will be no visitation and a Celebration of Dorothy’s life will be announced at a later date.
The family has entrusted Dorothy’s arrangements to the Thomas E. Fickinger Funeral Home, 210 N. East Street, Coudersport, PA 16915. To share a memory or condolence visit www.thomasfickinger.com.
Timothy L. Cummings, Age 73, passed away on February 12, 2023 at the home of his granddaughter and her husband, surrounded by his loving family.
He was born December 12, 1949, in Blossburg, Pennsylvania, the son of Gordon and Ruthadel. Tim graduated from Cowanesque Valley High School, Class of 1968. After graduating, he married his high school sweetheart, Rose Witter in 1970. They celebrated 53 years of marriage in July.
Tim was a former social member of Elkland Moose Lodge #746, Knoxville Firehall, and the Knoxville VFW Post 6753.
In his early years, Tim was an avid doodler, and could often be found drawing in numerous school books, earning himself quite a bit of trouble. As the years progressed, Tim became an avid outdoorsman, with some of his favorite activities including traveling, fishing, hunting, camping and gardening, attending the annual Bike Rally in Lake George, New York…And trying to fulfill his lifelong dream of winning the powerball, mega-million or anything that would earn him a million…or more.
With a career that spanned over 40 years, Tim was a welder for the Ingersoll-Rand, and later, Dresser-Rand, out of Painted Post, N.Y, for which he was a member of the local union and from which he retired in 2010.
In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by a brother, Roger Cummings, a niece, Sara Jo, A sister-in law, Linda Cummings, and his faithful companion, Soxx.
Surviving in addition to his wife, Rose, are his daughter, Anita Loucks, granddaughters, Allison (Nathaneil) Peet all of Knoxville and Ashley Loucks of North Carolina, a grandson, Avery Hutcheson of Tioga, and his four-legged friend, Tucker. Siblings Gary Cummings of Middlebury Center, Myraetta (Jerry) Austin of Wellsboro, Sandy Vargeson of California, Hughie (Julie) Heck of Mainesburg, and Karen (Randy) Casey of Colorado, lifelong best friends, Sherrel (Stuart) Lampman of New York, along with several nieces, nephews, and cousins.
In line with Tim’s last wishes, the family will not be holding services at the Funeral home. Instead, the family invites everyone to join them for a memorial service and to have one last drink with Tim at the Knoxville Firehall (Upstairs), on February 18th, 2023 at 6:00 P.M.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial contributions be made to one of the following: The family to help with funeral expenses or to the Parkinson’s Foundation. Arrangements are in the care of Kenyon Funeral Home, 214 W. Main St. Elkland, PA 16920, www.kenyonfuneralhome.com.
Billy G. Bloom, age 92 of Sabinsville, PA passed away on Sunday, February 12, 2023 at his home surrounded by family.
Born on January 20, 1931 in Knoxville, PA he was a son to the late Hubert and Beatrice (Abbott) Bloom. Billy married the love of his life, Betty Patterson on August 25, 1950 and they celebrated 55 loving years together before her passing in August 2005.
He was a dairy farmer on his own farm for several years and he was a well-known bus driver for over 30 years. Billy loved his community and wore many hats throughout his life. He worked at both the Elkland and Westfield Tanneries before they closed down, he was also the Clymer Township supervisor for 12 years and he was on the committee that started the sewer plant. On top of that, he was one of the founding members of the Sabinsville Ambulance Association and was a lifetime member of both the Sabinsville Ambulance and Fire Department. Billy also helped coach little league baseball while his children were on the team.
He enjoyed spending time with his horses, woodworking, hunting, gardening in his later years, seeing his grandchildren, watching sports and eating breakfast at the Home Comfort Restaurant in Westfield; where he was a regular.
Billy is survived by his sons; Barry (Dorothy) Bloom of Evans, CO, Bruce (Bonnie) Bloom of Sabinsville, Brett Bloom (Nancy) of Evans, CO, and Billy (Michelle) Bloom of Sabinsville; grandchildren, Ashley (Sean) Jones, Josh (Christiana) Bloom, Bryce (Autumn) Bloom, Ryan Bloom, Helena (Joseph) Hill, Tammy (Jay) Halsted, and Chris (Christine) Bloom; 13 great grandchildren; 3 great-great grandchildren; and sisters, Beverly and Leona.
He was preceded in death by both his parents and his beloved wife, Betty Bloom. Family and friends are called to Kenyon Funeral Home, 222 W. Main St. Westfield on Thursday, February 16, 2023 from 2:00 – 4:00 pm and 7:00 – 9:00 pm. A funeral service will be held Friday, February 17, 2023 at 11:00 am with Tim Miller officiating. Burial will take place at Sabinsville Cemetery following the service.
Memorial donations in Billy’s honor can be sent to the Sabinsville Fire Department. Arrangements are in the care of Kenyon Funeral Home, www.kenyonfuneralhome.com
Harry Samuel “Sam” Snyder, 80, of Warren, PA., died at his residence, Tuesday morning, February 14, 2023, with his family at his side.
He was born March 11, 1942, in Pedricktown, New Jersey. Harry was the son of Clarence R. and Helen E. Harrop Snyder. He has resided in Warren, PA., for the past 31 years and was a former resident of Norfolk, N.Y. for 14 years where he worked at St. Lawrence Railcar & Railroad. Harry was employed as a production manager with Petrex, Inc.
He was a member of Faith Fellowship Church of God where he was very active and his ministry, he enjoyed was with Helps, doing banquets and cooking. He enjoyed attending the Audubon, was an avid hunter, fisherman and camping. Harry was a longtime Philadelphia Eagles and Flyers Hockey fan.
Harry is survived by his wife of 57 years, Sharon E. Collins Snyder, whom he married March 20, 1965, in Pennsville, N.J.,
3 Children – Melissa A. Radcliff of Warren, PA., Meloney M. Franklin of Sarasota, FL, Joseph E. Snyder and his wife, Rachel of
Warren, PA., 1 Sister – Cheryl Lynn Snyder of Toms River, N.J., 10 Grandchildren – Michelle Radcliff, Joshua, Jacob, Mackenzie, Kassidy Franklin, Carly, Keith, Leo, Jaynah and Kaitlea Snyder, 1 Great Granddaughter – Coraline Hollingsworth.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a son, Samuel B. Snyder, 1 Brother – William “Bill” Snyder.
Friends may call at the Donald E. Lewis Funeral Home, Inc., 304 East Street, Warren, PA., on Thursday, February 16, 2023, from 6 to 8 P.M. where a funeral and committal service will be conducted on Friday, February 17, 2023, at 11:00 A.M. with Rev. Dorothy Hilliard, Pastor, officiating.
Interment will be in Warren County Memorial Park. Those wishing to place memorials may do so through Hospice of Warren County, 1 Main Avenue, Warren, PA. 16365 www.hospiceofwarrencounty.org or Tunnels to Towers Foundation, 2361 Hylan Blvd., Staten Island, N.Y. 10306 or t2t.org
Trebor A. McDonald, 23, of 120 San-Saba Avenue, Benbrook, TX and a former Bolivar, NY resident passed away on Thursday, February 9, 2023. Trebor was born on March 22, 1999 in Olean, he was the son of Robert “Guts” and Theresa Cross.
He was a Certified Nursing Assistant. He was employed as heavy equipment operator for Tysons Foods in Ft. Worth, TX. Trebor loved riding his motorcycle and playing his guitar.
Surviving are his Father, Robert “Guts” McDonald, Bolivar, NY; his mother Theresa “Terry” Cross, Cisco TX; three sisters, Neka (David) Maull Bolivar, Tori Cross, Cisco, TX and Lesha McDonald, Bolivar, NY; three brothers, Dana McDonald, Bolivar, NY, Josh (Amanda) McDonald, Jacksonville, FL and Rob Lundy, North Carolina. Also surviving are special nieces and nephews, Hunter Johnson, Nate Bradley, Carter Johnson, Natalie Bradley, Denver Johnson, Abby, Amayah, Seth and Alyssa McDonald and several aunts, uncles and cousins.
He was preceded in death by two brothers, Robert Matthew McDonald and Edward Gordon Churchill III; his paternal grandparents, Theodore and Betty McDonald and maternal grandmother Florence Slater.
Friends may call at the Obi Community Church on Saturday, February 18, 2023 from 11A.M.-1P.M. Funeral Services will follow at 1 P.M. Pastor David Cook will officiate. Burial will be in Bowler Memorial Cemetery, Little Genesee, NY.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Schaffner Funeral Home Inc., Bolivar.
Dennis M. Johnson, 66, of W. 4th St., Emporium, PA formerly of Driftwood, PA passed away unexpectedly at his residence on Sunday morning (February 12, 2023). He was born March 15, 1956 in Kane, PA a son of the late Russell and Lillian Gabriel Johnson.
Dennis graduated from Kane Area High School and served with the US Army and later with the Army Reserves. He had worked as a certified Harley Davidson mechanic for many years. He was a member and leader of the HOG Chapter (Harley Owners Group) in Eagle, PA for many years. He was also member of the Austin Dam Association. Dennis enjoyed spending time with family and friends, spending time outdoors, and riding his Harley Davidson. He was a man that would help anyone and always had a story to tell. He will be truly missed by all.
He is survived by a son, Douglas Johnson (Betty), St. Marys, PA; two daughters, Alana Larkie and Ashley Groff both of Ephrata, PA; five grandchildren: Alyssa Straitiff, James Varner, Miracle Johnson, Arianna Johnson, Audrey Rhodes & Kallum Alston; long time companion, Ina Bohling, Germany; two brothers, Matt Johnson (Patricia Sorrentino), Colorado and Richard Johnson (Linda), Wellsville.
In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by a daughter, Kelli Sue Johnson, and a brother, Cy Johnson.
There will be No Visitation. The family will hold a Celebration of Life Gathering at the Knights of Columbus, Broad Street, Emporium, PA on Saturday, February 18, 2023 at 3:00 PM with Pastor Janie McDonald, officiating.
Wayne S. ERWAY, 80, of Genesee, PA, died Monday, February 13, 2023 in Strong Memorial Hospital, Rochester, NY.
Born September 26, 1942, in Coudersport, he was the son of L. Clifton and Mary E. Gearhart Erway. On October 12, 1962, in Genesee, he married the former Janet Butler, who survives.
He attended Northern Potter High School. Wayne owned and operated a dairy farm for many years and raised Angus beef in later years. He was also a salesman for Seneca Seed. In retirement, he worked for Easton’s Mundy Brook Farm.
He was a member of the Genesee Methodist Church, Gold Grange, Potter County Fair Board, and the Grand Squares in Wellsville. Wayne served as a Genesee Township Supervisor and 4-H leader.
He was a strong supporter of youth in agriculture. He enjoyed gardening, making maple syrup, and camping.
Surviving besides his wife, Janet, are: four children, Susan (Greg) Ralyea of West Almond, NY, Marie (Steve) Ackley of Wellsville, NY, Judy (Phil) May of Wellsville, NY, and Charles (Michele) Erway of Genesee; three grandchildren, Jessica (Jeremy) Hoffman of Odessa, NY, Alan (Athena) Ackley of Hornell, NY, and Clifton Erway of Lima, OH; four great-grandchildren, Nathaniel Ackley, Nelle Ackley, Nikolas Ackley, and Lainey Hoffman; three brothers, Melvin (Kay) Erway of Ulysses, Gordon (Marylou) Erway of Gold, and Gary Erway of Ulysses; a sister-in-law, Louise Erway of Cincinnati, OH; many nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by three grandsons, Raymond Charles Erway, Tristan Wayne Erway, and Evan Jordan Erway; a brother, Lawrence C. Erway; a sister, Carol Erway; and sister-in-law, Rita Erway.
Friends may call Friday, February 17, 2023 from 4:00 – 7:00 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 Genesee Methodist Church, P.O. Box 137, Genesee, PA 16923, SonShine Charitable Fund, 8921 Shumla Road, Fredonia, NY 14063 or online at www.sonshinefund.com, or Headwaters FFA, Northern Potter School District, 745 Northern Potter Road, Ulysses, PA 16948. Online condolences may be expressed at www.olneyfoust.com.
Madalynn Inez Bennett, was born Wednesday, February 1, 2023 at 5:00 P.M. and went to be with the Lord while surrounded by family on February 5, 2023, at 3:00 A.M., due to a severe medical condition.
She was deeply loved by her parents, Matthew D. and Mikaela M. Bennett, her twin brother, Myles G. Bennett, her grandparents, aunts, uncles, and extended family. She gave her family a lifetime of love during her brief time on earth.
In lieu of flowers the family would be pleased to have donations made Grady’s Decision, P.O. Box 9343, Erie, PA. 16505 info@gradysdecision.com and Pennies from Heaven Fund, P.O. Box 310 Bradford Woods, PA., 15015 penniesfromheavenpittsburgh.org/.
Close friends and family will celebrate and honor Madalynn’s life at Praise Fellowship in Russell, PA., on Saturday, February 18, 2023, starting at 11:00 A.M.
E-mail condolences may be sent by visiting www.lewisfuneralhomeinc.com The Donald E. Lewis Funeral Home, Inc., Warren, PA. has been entrusted with final arrangements.
Marion Eugene “Gene” McDowell, 80, retired Quaker State executive, formerly of Seneca, Pennsylvania, passed away on February 11, 2023, surrounded by his immediate family, after a brief illness.
Gene was born August 9, 1942, in Cross Roads, York County, Pennsylvania, the son of Maynard Marion McDowell and the former Dorothy Smith Trout. He graduated from Kennard-Dale High School, Fawn Grove, Pennsylvania, in 1960 and from Grove City College in 1965 with a degree in chemical engineering.
Earlier in his life, Gene was active with his sons as a Scouting leader and served as the Chapter President of the Lion’s Club in Smethport, Pennsylvania. Read more here……….
Lois A. Thorwart, 78, of 114 Capri Road, St. Marys, passed away Monday, February 13, 2023 at Pinecrest Manor.
She was born August 20, 1944, in St. Marys, daughter of the late John and Winifred Bauer Schreiber. Lois was a lifelong resident of the area and a graduate of Central Catholic High School, Class of 1962.
On March 2, 1965, in the Sacred Heart Church, Lois married Daniel P. Thorwart, who survives. They were blessed with nearly 58 years of marriage.
Along with her loving husband, Lois is survived by two daughters: Deborah Auman (Tom) of St. Marys and Michelle Mannino (Joe) of Warriors Mark, PA; two sons: Michael J. Thorwart (Teresa) of Holland, PA and Joseph D. Thorwart (Deanna) of St. Marys; seven grandchildren: Kylie Centore (Vincent), Samantha Thorwart, Michael Thorwart, Daniel Thorwart, Zachary Thorwart, Noah Thorwart, and Riley Mannino; two sisters: Mary Lee Engel (Tom) of St. Marys and Laura Kilmer (Galen) of Sabula; four brothers: Donald Schreiber (Jean), Thomas “Peeps” Schreiber (Judy), Steve Schreiber (Judy), and William Schreiber, all of St. Marys; and by several nieces and nephews.
Lois was a member of the Sacred Heart Church. She enjoyed baking and being outdoors where she would admire all that nature had to offer, in particular, flowers and animals. She had a strong affinity towards all animals and would often feed the squirrels through her window. Nothing brought her more joy however than the time she spent with her family, especially her grandchildren.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in the Sacred Heart Church on Friday, February 17, 2023, at 10:15 AM, with the Rev. Kevin Holland, officiating. Burial will follow in the St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery.
Visitation will be held at the Lynch-Radkowski Funeral Home on Thursday, February 16, 2023 from 4:00 PM until 7:00 PM.
Memorials, if desired, may be made to Pinecrest Activities Department, c/o Megan Bolden, 763 Johnsonburg Road, St. Marys, PA 15857 or to the Elk County Humane Society, 1029 E. Eschbach Road, St. Marys, PA 15857.
Online condolences may be offered at www.lynch-radkowski.com.
Edward J. Sloff, 89, of Walnut Street, St. Marys, passed away Monday, February 13, 2023, surrounded by his family. Funeral arrangements are incomplete and under the direction of the Lynch-Radkowski Funeral Home.
William M. Colestro, 84, formerly of Bradford and Ellicottville, passed away, Sunday February 12, 2023, at Absolut Care in Westfield NY.
Born May 25, 1938, in Alliance OH, he was a son of the late Joseph Henry Colestro and Alice (Steck) and her husband Joseph Bizzaro.
Growing up in Bradford, Bill was a 1951 graduate of St. Bernard. His skills in basketball and football resulted in a basketball scholarship for Rochester Institute of Technology where he studied art and design. Later, active in the Bradford Youth Basketball League, many people in Bradford fondly called Bill “Coach”. He also provided leadership and support for the Bradford Central Christian Rambler Association. Many Good Fridays until a few years before his death you would find Bill in St. Bernard kitchen baking excellent fish dinners for hundreds of people followed by an evening at the Italian Club.
On February 16, 1961, Bill enlisted in the United States Air Force and was stationed near Pearl Harbor at Hickam AFB in Honolulu, Hawaii. He was an aircraft mechanic and was awarded the Good Conduct Medal and was the fearless Center of the Hickam AFB Football Team. He was honorably discharged on August 6, 1964.
He was a Master Carpenter and contractor and worked on homes and condos in Bradford and Ellicottville NY. After his hard days at work, he enjoyed kicking back with his friends and coworkers, and having beers at the Ellicottville American Legion Post #659 and the Little Valley VFW. He enjoyed telling jokes and playing cards, especially SCAT. He had an excellent voice and would often be asked to sing the Irish favorite, Danny Boy, or Louis Armstrong’s Wonderful World.
Surviving is one daughter, Debra (David) Wilber, and their children, Mary and Abby, one son, Joseph Colestro, one stepdaughter, Lisa (Brett) Crassi, and their children, Ariana and Briella, and one stepson, Jesse Grzankowski, and several great-grandchildren, one brother, Jim (Ann) Colestro, of Bradford, and Bill’s former wives, Molly Colestro, and Janice (Grzankowski) Colestro, and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his stepfather, his first wife, Mary (Gigliotti) Colestro, two brothers, Charles Colestro, Robert “Bob” (Freda) Colestro of Streetsboro, OH and one sister, Judith (Walter “Red”) Smith of Lexington, KY.
Friends will be received on Thursday February 16, 2023, from 11:00 am to Noon at Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes, Inc. 33 South Ave. where funeral services will be held at Noon with Fr. Jim Gutting of St. Bernard Church, officiating. Following the service Military Honor’s by members of the United States Air Force and the Honor Guard from the American Legion Post 108 of Bradford will be accorded at the funeral home. Burial will be in St. Bernard Cemetery.
Memorial contributions if desired may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes Inc.
Doris V. Vinca, 96, of 66 Little Gilbert Lane, Bradford, passed away Saturday, February 11, 2023, at The Pavilion @ BRMC.
Born September 14, 1926, in Bradford, she was a daughter of the late Carl and Gertrude (Myers) Lyons.
Doris was a lifetime resident of the area and was a 1945 graduate of Bradford High School.
On February 2, 1946, she married Peter F. Vinca, who preceded her in death on May 11, 1987.
She was employed at Zippo Manufacturing Company for 29 years.
She was a member of the Emanuel Evangelical Lutheran Church. Along with other volunteers in the church she was active with Nancy’s Quilts, where they made dozens of lap robes for the area nursing home residents. She also volunteered at the Bradford Area Public Library up until the age of 78.
Doris was very focused on her family and always made time for them. She cooked all the yearly holiday meals on her own, doing so into her early 90’s. She enjoyed knitting, reading, going to church, and taking care of her beloved cat Mittens.
Surviving are her four sons, Peter (Leona) Vinca, of Eminence, KY, Pat (Gladys) Vinca, of Bradford, Neal (Cathleen) Vinca, of Bradford, and Ken (Pam) Vinca, of Smethport, nine grandchildren, Michele Matoka, Teri Vinca, Wendy Vinca, Tony (Josie) Vinca, Ann (Pat) Vinca-Nolan, Matt Vinca, Leah Vinca, Erica (Kyle) Freer, and Sarah (Luke) Rittberg, 14 great-grandchildren, and 14 great-great grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, and two sisters, Evelyn Meador, and Jean Marie Kemick.
Friends will be received on Thursday, February 16, 2023, from 9:30 am to 11:00 am, at the Emanuel Evangelical Lutheran Church, where funeral services will be held at 11:00 am with John Kearns, ALWL, officiating. Burial will be in Willow Dale Cemetery.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes Inc.
Memorial contributions, if desired, can be made to the Emanuel Evangelical Lutheran Church, Bradford Area Public Library, or the McKean County SPCA.
Christine M. Hetrick, 75, of 642 Vermont Road, St. Marys, passed away unexpectedly Sunday, February 12, 2023 at her residence.
She was born August 5, 1947, in St. Marys, daughter of the late Leo T. and Marie Wildnauer Jacob. Christine was a lifelong resident of the area and was a graduate of Elk County Christian High School, Class of 1965. She was a retired employee of the St. Marys Carbon Company.
On March 29, 1974, in the First United Methodist Church, Christine married the late Paul D. “Denny” Hetrick, who preceded her in death on September 16, 1994.
Christine is survived by her daughter, Amy Buerk and her husband Toby of Erie; and by her two grandchildren, Ben and Nathan.
Along with her husband and parents, Christine was preceded in death by her brother, Howard T. Jacob. She was the last surviving member of her immediate family.
Christine was a member of the St. Mary’s Catholic Church. She loved spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in the St. Mary’s Catholic Church on Friday, February 17, 2023, at 11:00 AM, with the Rev. Thomas More Sikora, OSB, Pastor, officiating. Burial will follow in the St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery.
Visitation will be held at the Lynch-Radkowski Funeral Home on Friday morning, from 9:00 AM until 10:30 AM.
Memorials, if desired, may be made to the St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 325 Church Street, St. Marys, PA 15857.
Florence C. “Puggie” Iorfida, 85, of 129 Straub Avenue, St. Marys, PA passed away with her family by her side Sunday, February 12, 2023, at her residence.
She was born December 13, 1937, in St. Marys, daughter of the late James and Alice Curry Harlan. Florence was a lifelong resident of the area, a graduate of St. Marys High School, Class of 1956, and was formerly employed by Stackpole Carbon and Kronenwetter Nursery School.
On March 3, 1962, in Queen of the World Church, Florence married Louis S. Iorfida, who survives. They were blessed to share 60 years of marriage.
Along with her loving husband, Florence is survived by her daughter, Mary Jo Fennell of Lansdale, PA and her two grandchildren, Anna and Ava.
In addition to her parents, Florence was preceded in death by her brother, Larry Harlan. She was the last surviving member of her immediate family.
Puggie, along with her husband, was a committed member to the community. She was a member of the Sacred Heart Church. She enjoyed reading and yard sales. Above everything, she cherished each moment with her husband, daughter, and grandchildren.
A Mass of Christian Burial for Florence will be celebrated in the Sacred Heart Church at a future date to be announced, with the Rev. Thomas Curry, OSB, Pastor, officiating. Burial will be in the St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery.
There will be no visitation.
Memorials, if desired, may be made to Catholic Charities Counseling & Adoption Services, 32 South St. Marys Street, Franklin Center, St. Marys, PA 15857 or to Make-A-Wish, The Gulf Tower, 707 Grant Street, 37th Floor, Pittsburgh, PA 15219.
Elizabeth B. “Libby” Riley Stickles, 93, of Bradford, went to be with her Lord and Savior, Tuesday, February 7, 2023.
Born September 2, 1929, in Bradford, she was a daughter of the late Lloyd and Florence (Anning) Sherk Sr.
Libby attended Bradford Area High School and later graduated from the Continental School of Beauty. She worked in the beauty salon of Steve Gigliotti for her first two years, then opened Libby’s Beauty Salon which she operated for many years. She also owned and operated the L n A Dress Shop. Later in her career, Libby was the beautician at the Bradford Manor until she retired at the age of 70.
On April 9, 1948, in Salamanca, NY she married her beloved husband Donald J. Riley who passed away June 26, 1996. She later married Jay N. Stickles on January 1, 2005, who passed away February 18, 2010.
Libby was a member of West Branch United Methodist Church where she taught Sunday School, Vacation Bible School, and loved to sing in the choir. She was a member of the Order of the Eastern Star and a member of the Red Hat Society. Libby enjoyed spending her time golfing, camping, boating, playing cards, cooking, and knitting, but there was nothing she loved more than being with her family.
Surviving are two daughters, Kathleen Crosby, of Smethport and Jodi (Michael) Yohe, of Bradford and one daughter-in-law Karen Riley, of Florida, five grandchildren, Timothy (Marsha) Riley, Drew Crosby, Chad (Anna) Yohe, Jennifer (Raymond) Douglass, Sarie Yohe (Jacob Johnson), and several great-grandchildren, three sisters, Shirley Frederick, of Rew, Nancy Anning, of Oklahoma City, OK and Diane Martin, of Seattle, WA, one brother, Gordon Sherk, of Bradford, and several nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, both husbands, one son, Michael D. Riley, three brothers Robert Sherk, Richard Sherk and Lloyd “Brud” Sherk Jr., three sisters, Florence Gilbert, Audrey Besecker, and Evelyn Edmonds.
Family will receive friends on Saturday February 18, 2023, from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm at the West Branch United Methodist Church, where at 1:00 pm a Celebration of Life will be held with Rev. Fred Zickefoose, Pastor and Steve Sherk Sr. Co-officiating Burial will be in McKean Memorial Park.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes Inc.
Memorial contributions if desired may be made to the West Branch United Methodist Church.
Joseph Woodrow Foltz, 98, of 159 Buchanan Hollow, Bradford, passed away Thursday, February 9, 2023, at The Pavilion @ BRMC.
Born May 24, 1924, in Winslow Twp. he was a son of Grover Cleveland and Ida (Sprankle) Foltz.
He attended schools in Winslow Township. He went to work at an early age for Rochester and Pittsburgh Coal Company in Ernest PA.
On March 30, 1943, he enlisted in the United States Navy. He served during WWII and was honorably discharged on June 3, 1946.
On March 10, 1951, he married Katherine (Shank) Foltz, who preceded him in death on December 6, 1971.
He and his wife moved to Bradford after the service and he was employed at Boviard & Seyfang for 25 years and later as a welder at Dresser Clark for over 10.
Joe was a member of the VFW and the American Legion. He enjoyed gardening and woodworking.
Surviving are four daughters, Sara Buck, of Galax, VA, Linda (Ron Nuhfer) Foltz, of Bradford, Roberta Conner, of Kane, and Laura (Rick) Facteau, of Plattsburg NY, two sons, Robert (Cathy Marie) Foltz, of Bradford, and Dennis Foltz, of Bradford, daughter- in-law, Judy Foltz, of Kane, 17 grandchildren, many great grandchildren and great great grandchildren, one sister, Barbara Hanna, of Canada, and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Katherine, one daughter Brenda Foltz, and one son, Joseph J. Foltz, and 10 brothers and sisters.
Family will gather at 11:00 am on Wednesday February 15, 2023, at Lamphier Cemetery in Eldred for Military Honor’s by members of the United States Navy and the Honor Guard from the American Legion Post 108 of Bradford. with burial will follow.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes Inc.
Memorial contributions if desired may be made to McKean County SPCA PO Box 113 Bradford, PA 16701.
