Patrick Lynn Nelson Jr., 45, of Warren, PA, passed away unexpectedly on Monday March 13, 2023, in his home.
He was born on April 6, 1977, in Warren, PA, the son of Patrick Lynn Nelson Sr. and Laural Falconer. Pat currently worked for Walmart in the Meat Department, he previously drove truck for Fox and Sons, and Falcon Compass. He was a member of Hessel Valley Lutheran Church, Chandlers Valley, PA. Pat was a member with the AM Vets Post 50 of Sugar Grove, PA and the Warren American Legion Post 135.
He enjoyed gardening, working on cars, loved racing, and was always willing to help a person in need. He also had a great joy for his cats Jax and Rollie. Pats main enjoyment in life was spending time with his son KC, and enjoyed watching him wrestle, play football, and soccer, they enjoyed splitting wood and having fires.
Pat is survived by his parents Patrick Lynn Nelson Sr. and Kellie of Corry and Laural Falconer of Warren, PA; his son Kylecole (KC) Nelson of Warren, PA; partner of 8 years Sarah Meddock of Warren; stepdaughter Patricia of Bradford; siblings James Nelson and Tara of Warren, Pa and Beth Olewine and Mike of Youngsville, PA; paternal grandmother Margaret Nelson; 3 nephews Coltton Nelson, Warren,PA, Trenton Olewine and Hunter Olewine, both of Youngsville; two nieces Dakkota Shrefler (Cody), Clarendon and Erikka Nelson of Warren, Pa; two great nephews Ryan Slocum and Ryker Shrefler of Clarendon, PA; numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his paternal grandfather John A. Nelson Sr. and his maternal grandparents Edwin J. Falconer and Carriebelle M. Falconer.
Friends may call on Thursday March 23, 2023, from 5:00 to 7:00 pm in the Donald E. Lewis Funeral Home Inc. 304 East St. Warren, PA. Funeral services will be held on Thursday at 7:00 pm in the funeral home with the Rev. Dr. Dale Haight, officiating. E-mail condolences may be sent by visiting www.lewisfuneralhomeinc.com.
LIBERTY, Ky. – Gwen Elizabeth Miller is no longer bound by her earthly body of 93 years. As of Thursday, March 9th, 2023 she resides with God and in the hearts of all who love her. Though a decades-long resident of Port Allegany, Pa., in 2014 she ventured to share life with family in Idaho and moved with them to Kentucky in 2018. She lived at home in Middleburg, Ky. until December, then was tenderly cared for by Liberty Care & Rehab and her family until the time of her death.
The daughter of Herman “Steve” and Lillian Rose Grove, she was born in Bradford, Pa. on July 8, 1929 and grew up there playing stick ball and kick-the-can on Bradford Avenue with her friends, one of which was her childhood sweetheart Gerald “Jerry” Miller, whom she wed on July 19, 1947.
They began their marriage in Bradford, relocating to Port Allegany around 1957 where they raised their six children and had enough love to graft two more into the family. Amidst the flurry of running a large household, Gwen as a young mother was totally “in,” teaching Sunday School, leading Girl Scouts, participating with community youth activities.
She then spread her wings and participated and served Women’s Presbytery (Lake Erie Presbytery President 1978), Church Women United, and Women’s Club. She was instrumental in coordinating start-up and ongoing leadership of “Meals on Wheels,” even into her 80s. She served Camp JJ with Jerry for many years. She even drove a mini school bus for a season. Gwen did all this while singing in the choir at the First United Presbyterian Church!
How in the world did she have time to chase a racing canoe (with Jerry in it) around the country and ride tandem with him coast to coast on their motorcycle, more than once? It’s simple… humble devotion, commitment, grace and love beyond measure! Oh, and the ability to multi-task!
Gwen is survived by her loving children, Kevin (Kathy) Hanley of Portville, N.Y., Kris deDiego of Phoenix, Ariz., Jan Treat of Angola, Ind., Susie (Glenn) Twigg of South Waverly, Pa., Hedy (Curtis) Hopewell of Middleburg, Ky., Holly (Gregg) Schena of Port Allegany, Pa.; 14 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild. Also, extended family Dave (Julie) Kio.
In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband of 56 years, Jerry Miller; two sons, Gregory Miller and Kim Miller; a daughter, Jill Kio, and brother, Merlyn “Murph” Grove.
Gwen loved to sing, walk, swim, read, bird-watch, and write rhyming poetry. This is what she had to say when her earthly body was letting her down, “The sunrays enter warming my bones, proving to me I’m not alone…God’s in the sun and everywhere, reminding me to meet Him there…No matter what this day may bring, songs of praises I will sing…When night time falls and I’m in prayer, I’ll thank my God for being there.”
There will be a Celebration Memorial Service at First United Presbyterian Church of Port Allegany on Saturday, May 6, 2023 at 11 a.m. with Garen Smith officiating. Join the family for a light lunch in the social rooms following service to reminisce and share your favorite “Gwen” remembrance.
In lieu of flowers memorials can be made to Clarion Foundation, Inc. for the Emily Schena Scholarship Endowment, 840 Wood Street, Clarion, PA 16214 or First United Presbyterian Church, 12 Church St, Port Allegany, PA 16743.
Cremation arrangements were entrusted to McKinney-Brown Funeral Home, Liberty, Ky.
John H. Smith, 78, of Port Allegany, formerly of Austin, passed away surrounded by his loving family on Thursday, March 16, 2023, in Roswell Park Cancer Institute, Buffalo, after a short illness.
Born on Friday, July 7, 1944 in Coudersport, he was a son of George and Juanita Clinton Smith.
John was a graduate of Austin Area High School. He was employed for over 35 years by National Fuel Gas in Wharton.
John was a member of the Austin United Methodist Church, a life member of the Austin Fire Department and Ambulance Association, a member and past master of Arcana Lodge #580 F. & A.M. in Austin, a member of the Coudersport Consistory, and a member of the Cameron County Country Club. He was an avid golfer, hunter and fisherman.
He loved animals and was a generous donor to the McKean County SPCA and while visiting in Florida, John always went to Dogs and Cats Forever, a no kill shelter, donating to them as well. His greatest love was his family.
Left to cherish his memory are a daughter, Annette (David) Carr of Coudersport; a son, Wade (Michelle) Smith of Port St. Lucie, Florida; three grandchildren, Brittany M. (Harry Hooftallen) Simms, Benjamin Simms, and Emily Simms; a great-granddaughter, Molly J. Hooftallen; a sister, Rebecca S. Anthony of Lakeland, FL; a niece; and his caregiver/companion, Betty Springer.
In addition to his parents, John was predeceased by a sister, Esther Smith.
Family and friends may call from 4pm to 6pm on Monday, March 20, 2023, in the Austin United Methodist Church, Turner Street, Austin, where a celebration of life will follow at 6pm with Pastor Todd Lamer of the Austin United Methodist Church and Pastor Donald Caskey of the First Presbyterian Church in Coudersport, officiating. Burial will be next to his mother in the Odin Cemetery.
Members of Arcana Lodge #580 will conduct a Masonic memorial service at 5:45pm in the church on Monday.
In lieu of flowers, memorials in John’s name may be made to the McKean County SPCA, 80 Glenwood Ave, Bradford, PA 16701 or to the Austin Fire and Ambulance Association, PO Box 328, Austin, PA 16720.
John’s family has 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 John, please visit www.virgillhowardfuneralhome.com or the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home Facebook page.
Elaine B. Pinheiro, 86, of 36 Euclid Avenue, Bradford, passed away, Thursday, March 16, 2023 at The Pavilion @ BRMC.
Born on July 5, 1936, in Olean, NY, she was a daughter of the late Orin and Mary (Swarm) Elliott.
She was a 1953 graduate of Olean High School.
On April 3, 1971, she married John L. Pinheiro, who passed away January 13, 2020.
She enjoyed crafting, reading, gardening, and being with her husband Johnny.
Surviving are three daughters, PeggyAnn Cramer, of Bradford, Bonnie (Andrew) Dolecki, of Terryville, CT and Linda Ryan, of Bristol, CT, one son, Danny (Sandra) Ryan, of Orange, CA, 11 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband John, of 48 years.
There will be no public services held.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes Inc.
Memorial contributions, if desired, may be made to American Cancer Society, or the SPCA.
John H. Smith, 78, of Port Allegany, formerly of Austin, passed away surrounded by his loving family on Thursday, March 16, 2023, in Roswell Park Cancer Institute, Buffalo, after a short illness.
Family and friends may call from 4pm to 6pm on Monday, March 20, 2023, in the Austin United Methodist Church, Turner Street, Austin, where a celebration of life will follow at 6pm.
A complete obituary will follow.
John’s family has entrusted his care and cremation arrangements to Kevin J. Dusenbury, funeral director/owner of the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse.
Evelyn M. Johnson, 86, of Sunset Drive, Ridgway, died on Friday, March 17, 2023, at the Kane Lutheran Home following a lengthy illness.
She was born on September 25, 1936, in Ridgway, a daughter of the late John and Dorothy Earon Egger.
On May 4, 1957, in the Evangelical Covenant Church she married the late Richard H. Johnson, who preceded in death on October 20, 2021.
Evelyn resided in Ridgway all her life. Graduating from Ridgway Area High School, Class of 1954. She then attended Dubois Business School and Penn State, Dubois Campus. She worked with her husband and family at Johnson Poultry Farm for thirty years, worked with family at Rich’s Farm Market, and worked as Church secretary at Trinity United Methodist for over 16 years.
She was a member of the Evangelical Covenant Church, YMCA, AARP, and Lumpy’s Weightlifters. She was an avid runner for many years. She joined the Trinity United Methodist Church after the closing of the Evangelical Covenant.
Evelyn is survived by 3 children; Lester R. Johnson and his wife Sue, Karen J. Stilwell and her husband Paul, and Eric J. Johnson , Ridgway, 5 grandchildren; Amber (Drew), Louis ( Ashley), Robert, Shawn (Malia), and Daniel (Dakota), and 2 great-grandchildren, Parker and Clayton. She is also survived by 2 sisters, Dorothy Workinger of MD and Gladys (Bill) Picht of CA, and many nieces and nephews.
In addition to her husband and parents, she was preceded in death by a daughter, Dorothy A. “Dottie” Johnson, four brothers: Richard, James, John and Robert Egger, a brother in law, Donald Workinger, and a daughter in law, June Bush Johnson.
Funeral Services for Evelyn M. Johnson will be held on Tuesday, March 21, 2023, at 11:00AM at Krise Funeral Home, 130 Center Street, Ridgway, PA 15853, with Rev. Roger Peterson officiating.
Visitation will be held on Tuesday, March 21, 2023, at Krise Funeral Home from 10:00 AM until the time of service.
Burial will follow at Oakmont Cemetery.
Memorial contributions can be made to Trinity United Methodist Church.
Krise Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 130 Center Street, Ridgway, PA 15853 is handling the arrangements and online condolences may be offered to the family at www.krisefuneralhome.com
Jean E. Giacomini, 92, a resident of the Rouse Home, Youngsville, PA., and formerly of Long Island, N.Y., died Thursday morning, March 16, 2023.
She was born in New York City, N.Y., on February 14, 1931. She was the daughter of Adrian and Evelyn Herbert Wuttke. Jean has resided in Youngsville, PA., for the past 3 years, moving from Long Island, N.Y. She was employed with the U.S. Government, working as a secretary for Pharmacy Services Veterans Affairs office. She was a member of St. John’s Episcopal Church, active with St. Hilda’s and managed the Canterbury Shop. She along with her husband, were members of the Couples Club.
She is survived by her daughter, Addy Landrio and husband, Gary of Warren, PA., 3 Grandchildren – Paul & Peter Landrio, Daniel Giacomini.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Jerry L. Giacomini whom she married in 1950 in Long Island, N.Y. who died August 2, 2017, 1 son – Roger Giacomini. A Memorial Service will be conducted in Long Island, N.Y. at the convenience of the family. Interment will be in Calverton National Veterans Cemetery, Wading River, N.Y. Those wishing to place memorials may do so through St. John’s Episcopal Church, 12 Prospect Street, Huntington, N.Y. 11743, or ALSCA/St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or www.stjude.org
E-mail condolences may be sent by visiting www.lewisfuneralhomeinc.com The Donald E. Lewis Funeral Home, Inc. has been entrusted with funeral arrangements.
Irene Coneys of Machias, formerly of Port Allegany, PA, passed away on March 16, 2023 at the Pines in Machias, NY
Arrangements are under the direction of the Hartle-Tarbox Funeral homes, Inc. Port Allegany, PA are incomplete and will be announced with a full obituary
Shirley Jane Lee, age 99 of Knoxville, PA passed away at the family farm on Thursday, March 16, 2023 surrounded by her loving family.
Born October 5, 1923 in Westfield, PA, she was the daughter of the late Robert and Frances (Patterson) Haynes, Jr. She was a 1941 graduate of Westfield High School.
Shirley married Joseph Lee Jr on July 5, 1946 and they celebrated 44 years together before his passing in Oct. 1990.
Through the years, Shirley enjoyed helping on the family farm, cooking, baking, reading, plants and gardening, Hallmark movies, nightly rides and most of all her family. She was a silver star member of the Valley Grange #876 and was known for making their pies.
She is survived by her son, Joseph (Debra) Lee, III; grandchildren, Stephanie and Joseph Lee, IV; sister, Ruth Allen and several nieces, nephews, cousins and many friends and neighbors.
Shirley was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph; brothers, Douglas and Robert Haynes and nephews, Richard Keck and Robert Haynes, IV.
Family will receive friends at Kenyon Funeral Home, 214 W Main St., Elkland on Monday, March 20th from 2:00 – 3:00 PM. A funeral service will be held immediately following at 3:00 PM. Burial will be in Fairview Cemetery, Osceola.
In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made in Shirley’s honor to the Valley Community Ambulance, PO Box 280, Osceola, PA 16942 or the Susquehanna Health Home and Hospice, 1100 Grampian Blvd., Williamsport, PA 17701. www.kenyonfuneralhome.com
Alice D. Eckert, 96, of Pinecrest Manor and formerly of Rosely Road, St. Marys, passed away on March 15, 2023 following a lengthy illness.
She was born on October 16, 1926 in St. Marys, a Daughter of the late Louis and Catherine Feldbauer Dumich.
On November 22, 1947, she married the late Thomas B. Eckert, who preceded her in death on August 7, 2015. Together they shared more than 67 years of love and marriage.
Alice worked at Speer Carbon and Sylvania for many years. She also owned and operated The Colonial Linen Shop alongside her sister Dorothy. Alice cherished spending time with her family, especially her granddaughter and great-granddaughters. She also devoted a lot of her time to prayer and prayed the rosary often.
She is survived by 1 son; Dennis Eckert of St. Marys; and by her beloved granddaughter; Tina Kossman (Brett Rooker). She is also survived by 2 great-granddaughters; Megan and Nadia.
In addition to her parents and her husband, Alice was preceded in death by 4 brothers; Stephen Dumich, John Dumich, Louis Dumich Jr., and Robert Dumich, and by 2 sisters; Grace Wellde and Dorothy Bush. Alice was the last member of her immediate family.
A Mass of Christian Burial for Alice D. Eckert will be celebrated on Saturday, March 25, 2023 at 10:00 AM at Queen of the World Church, 134 Queens Road, St. Marys, PA 15857 with Fr. Jeffrey Noble as celebrant.
Burial will follow in the St. Marys Catholic Cemetery.
There will be no visitation.
Memorial Contributions may be made to the Pinecrest Manor Activities Fund.
Lynch-Green Funeral Home, 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
Michael P. Rachiele, 74, of Gaines, PA, passed away on Wednesday, March 15, 2023 at his home.
Born May 11, 1948 in Wurzburg, Germany, he was a son of the late Frank and Nora (Jordan) Rachiele. Mike was a 1967 Graduate of Galeton High School. He was a Veteran having served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. On April 13, 1974, he married the former Patricia Parker, who survives.
Mike worked as a machinist at St. Mary’s Carbon in Galeton. He was a member of the Valley Christian & Missionary Alliance Church in Ansonia, a member of the Galeton VFW and a member of the Gaines Game Feeders.
He was an avid outdoorsman, enjoyed trapping, loved hunting rattlesnakes, raccoons, deer and bear, but most of all, he enjoyed spending time with his family and friends.
In addition to his wife, Patsy Rachiele of Gaines, he is survived by a son, Michael (Janae) Rachiele II, Naugatuck, CT; a daughter, Ricci (Brandon) Reed, Genesee, PA; four grandchildren, Elisha Rachiele, Grayson Reed, Oceana Rachiele and Daisy Rachiele; two sisters, Theresa Button, Galeton and Nancy Rachiele, New Jersey; and several nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, Mike was predeceased by four brothers, Benjamin, Kenneth, Lawrence and Daniel Rachiele.
A Private Memorial Service will be held at the family’s convenience. Military Honors will be accorded by the Tioga County Honor Guard.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Vietnam Veterans of America. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Hess Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Galeton.
Irma Carol Geiser, 91, of Germania, PA, passed away on Sunday, March 12, 2023, at UPMC Susquehanna, Williamsport, PA.
Born March 10, 1932 in Elmira, NY, she was a daughter of the late Wilbur and Alma (Schnautz) Heuser. She was a 1950 Graduate of Galeton High School. Irma married Harold Geiser, who survives, they enjoyed 71 years together.
Irma played the organ at the Germania Lutheran Church for many years before it closed. She enjoyed baking, watching deer and other animals, working in her flower garden, helping others who were in need, and most of all, she loved spending time with her family.
Surviving in addition to her husband, Harold Geiser, are two sons, Lynn (Marie) Geiser, Coudersport, PA and Lowell (Virginia) Geiser, Germania; a daughter, Michelle (Steve) Piaquadio, Germania; six grandchildren, Talia (Bill) Robertson, Valerie Geiser, Carolyn (Adam) Rohrer, Lauren (Peter) Grace, Braden (Kaiti) Piaquadio and Nathan (Elizabeth) Geiser; 13 great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.
Friends may call on Saturday, April 22, 2023 from 10:00-11:00am at the Pine Creek Valley United Methodist Church. A Memorial Service will follow at 11:00am. The Rev. Rick Lehman and Pastor Lynn Geiser will co-officiate.
Memorial contributions may be made to any animal shelter. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Hess Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Galeton.
Rose Marie (Torres) Jirgensons, age 79, of Wellsboro, PA, died on Wednesday, March 15, 2023.
She was born on September 21, 1943 in SanJuan, Puerto Rico a daughter of the late Carlos and Albertina (Rosario) Torres and was the wife of the late Udo Jirgensons.
Rose was a flight attendant for American Airlines for 45 years, a member of St. Peter’s Catholic Church and loved her cats and traveling.
She is survived by a brother: Jose Torres of Miami, FL, two sisters: Luz Swontek and Santa Maria (Kenny) Swinnich both of Wellsboro, PA.
A viewing will be held on Monday, March 20, 2023 from 10 to 11 am at the Carleton Funeral Home, Inc. www.carletonfh.com Wellsboro, PA. A prayer service will follow at 11:00 am with Rev. Jacek Bialkowski officiating. Interment will be in St. Peter’s Catholic Cemetery, Wellsboro, PA.
“beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, cousin, and friend”
CARLISLE, Pa.—Delores “Dee” Walaski Taylor, 91, born on November 9, 1931 in Coudersport, to Joseph and Gladys Davey Walaski, passed away just how she wanted and doing the things she enjoyed with loving friend and her extended family by her side Wednesday, March 15, 2023 at the Thornwald Home in Carlisle.
Known to most as Dee but best known by her family as wife, mom, mother dear, gram, grandma Dee Dee, aunt Dee and sister. Dee graduated Coudersport High School in 1949 and on June 24, 1950 she married her one true love, J. James “Jim” Taylor. She was a devout catholic and member of St Theresa’s Parish in Shinglehouse, where she joyfully sang with the choir. Dee enjoyed a few jobs early in life, working at the Coudersport Movie Theater and the Toy Factory, but none were greater than 71 years being a mother. Together Jim and Dee raised five children in Shinglehouse, Patricia, RoxAnn, Terry, Sheila and Jay.
Dee’s lived a long and at times adventurous life. She spent many of those years as a devoted at home wife of a pipeline operator. When the time came she traveled with Jim to those endeavors until his retirement when they became snow birds traveling from Shinglehouse to Florida. After Jim passed away Dee continued to travel the east coast and an occasional safari with her sister Rose Marie and daughter Dorrie including a trips to Las Vegas and Hawaii.
When traveling was no longer an option, Dee became a volunteer ombudsman with the Pennsylvania Department of Aging. That strong advocacy made her an easy choice to become the Thornwald Home Resident Council President after she moved there for her home comfort and care. The Thornwald staff were all amazing people who loved Dee and provided outstanding care. Dee thrived there because of that love and compassion and made it a point to call each of them by name.
Her time at Thornwald was always brightened when her sister Jean and husband Don Grom would stop for a visit. The stakes were high during these visits because Dee is formidable card shark and a game of Skip-bo would be afoot.
Left to cherish her memory are her children Patricia & Robert Danforth of Onfallen, IL, RoxAnn & Daniel Dibble of Iron Station, NC, Terry & Judy Taylor of Cheyenne, WY, Sheila & Glenn Parsons of Midwest City, OK and Jay & Dorrie Taylor of Mechanicsburg; her sisters, Jean (Don) Grom of Bethlehem, Shirley Zebracki of Fredonia, NY; a brother Gary (Sue) Walaski of Coudersport; a sister-in-law, Soledad Walaski of Dallas, TX; 10 grandchildren, Todd, Erin, Jennifer, Riann, Korrie, Ann Marie, Kimberly, Scott, Daniel, and Joshua, 15 great-grandchildren, Shane, Logan, Payton, Kaleb, Kypton, Kindall, Keegan, Taylor, Carter, Elvis, Annalisa, Thadious, Elizabeth, Abigayle, Auroraa a great-granddaughter, Alayna Jo; and countless nieces, nephews and cousins all who loved her dearly!
Dee was preceded in death by her parents, Joe and Gladys Walaski and John and Marie Taylor; husband, Jim; brothers, James and Bill Walaski; sisters, Nancy Walaski (Tom) Chitister, and Rose Marie Taylor (Bob) Sereno; bother-in-law, Pete (Marilyn) Taylor.
Family and friends may call from 2pm to 4pm and 6pm to 8pm on Sunday at the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, 118 South Union Street, Shinglehouse. Parish prayers will be recited at 2:30pm in the funeral home on Sunday. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11am on Monday, March 20, 2023, in St. Theresa Catholic Church, Puritan Street, Shinglehouse, with the Rev. Thomas E. Brown, pastor, as celebrant. Burial will be in the Rathbone Cemetery, Coneville.
In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the activities department at the Thornwald Home, 442 Walnut Bottom Rd, Carlisle, PA 17013.
Dee entrusted her care to 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 Dee, please visit www.virgillhowardfuneralhome.com or the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home Facebook page.
“beloved mother, sister, aunt, wife, artist, and friend to all”
Elaine Mary Margaret Bell of Coudersport, died on Saturday, March 11, 2023 in UPMC Cole, Coudersport.
Born in Worcester, MA to Gordon A and Mary R (Philbin) Bell, she was raised in Shrewsbury, MA, graduating from Shrewsbury High School in 1967. After high school she lived in a wide variety of locations including Fredericksburg and Charlottesville, VA; Narragansett and Providence, RI; Worcester, Northborough, Boston, Cambridge and Somerville , MA; Windsor, West Hartford, Collinsville and Newington, CT and finally Coudersport, PA.
She holds a BA in Philosophy from Mary Washington University in Fredericksburg, VA and a Masters in Creative Writing from Brown University in Providence, RI.
Elaine earned her living as a Technical Writer both independently and for a number of firms throughout the Northeast but her life passion was for her personal writing. Her prolific output of over 60 years includes plays, short stories, song lyrics and above all, her poetry. She was a loved member of every community she was a part of.
She is survived by her beloved daughter, Jesse Jane Bell of Richmond, VA; her husband, Jason Krug of Connecticut; her brother, Scott, his wife Pat and nephews, Ian and Evin Bell also of Connecticut; a cousin, Suzanne Gilrein of Massachusetts; and close friends and long term supporters, Linda Argenti and her wife Pat of Maine and Florida.
A memorial service will be planned and announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials in Elaine’s name may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.
Elaine’s family 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 Elaine, please visit www.virgillhowardfuneralhome.com or the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home Facebook page.
Philip J. Bartoletti, 71, of Emporium, PA passed away at UPMC Cole, Coudersport, PA on Tuesday afternoon (March 14, 2023). He was born June 22, 1951 in Colver, PA a son of the late Illo Louis and Margaret L. (Phillips) Bartoletti. On September 9, 1972 in St. Mary’s Catholic Church, in Nanty Glo, PA, he married Bess Tripp, who survives.
Philip graduated from Blacklick Valley High School in Nanty Glo, PA, and then from Penn Tech College in Pittsburgh, where he received an associate degree in electronics. He was a quality engineer at various companies in the area, most recently at AST/Embassy Powdered Metal. Playing with his grandchildren is what he loved the most, but it usually ended with everyone, including himself, in trouble. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, NASCAR, Boston Red Sox, Pittsburgh Steelers, working on cars and telling “dad jokes”.
In addition to his wife he is survived by four daughters, Wendy Luckenbill (Steve); Amy Crowell (Karl); Erin Bartoletti; Melissa Bartoletti, and a son, Philip Bartoletti, Jr.; five grandchildren: Alex, Tyler, Evan, Gabriel and Iris; sister, Elaine Irving (Herb); brother, Geno Bartoletti (Terri); brother, Rick Bartoletti (Joyce); sister, Teresa Casella (Barry); brother, Gary Bartoletti (Aggie).
He was preceded in death by his parents.
There will be No Visitation. Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at the St. Mark’s Catholic Church, 235 East Fourth Street, Emporium, PA on Saturday, March 18, 2023 at 11:00 AM with Msgr. Charles A. Kaza, as Celebrant.
Burial will be in the St. Mark’s Catholic Cemetery, Emporium, PA, at a later date.
Mary Joan (Hoden) Metzger, 96, of Warren, PA, formerly of Inverness, FL, passed away on Wednesday, March 15, 2023, at Warren General Hospital.
Born on October 5, 1926, in Ludlow, PA, she was the daughter of George and Mary Steffan Bires. On June 28, 1947, she married Steve Hoden, who passed away on November 25, 1982. On May 1, 1993, she married Edward Metzger, who passed away on April 4, 2019.
Mary was a former employee of New Process Company from where she retired. She was a member of St. Michael’s Byzantine Church of Sheffield, PA. She enjoyed her many trips to various NASCAR races and RVing.
Mary is survived by her children; Steven G. and Darielle Hoden of Warren, PA, John M. Hoden of Titusville, PA, Kristine A. and G. Richard Myers of Warren, PA and Renee M. and Brian Carlson of Georgia; Six Grandchildren; 12 Great Grandchildren; her sister, Margaret Hammerbeck of Warren, PA; brother Robert and Karen Bires of Youngsville, PA and many nieces and nephews.
Mary was preceded in death by her two brothers, George and Bernard Bires; daughter-in-law Patricia Cotton Hoden; and brother-in-law Robert Hammerbeck.
Friends may call on Saturday, March 18, 2023, at St. Michael’s Byzantine Church, 407 School St., Sheffield, PA form 10:00 to 11:00 am. A Memorial Divine Liturgy will be held at 11:00 am in the church with the Rev. David A. Bosnich, officiating. Interment will be in St. Michael’s Catholic Cemetery, Sheffield, PA.
Those wishing to place memorials may do so to Disabled American Veterans Chapter 75, C/O John Hoden, Treasurer, 301 Mount Hope Rd, Titusville, PA 16354.
The Donald E. Lewis Funeral Home Inc., 304 East St. Warren, PA, has been entrusted with the funeral arrangements.
Gifford Murry Quiggle, 79, of Warren, PA, recently of Wexford, PA, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, March 13, 2023.
Murry was born on April 29, 1943 in Warren, PA to the late Gifford and Maude Murry Quiggle. Murry grew up in Kinzua enjoying the many advantages of living in a beautiful small village. He attended Kinzua Elementary, Beaty Junior High School and graduated from Warren Area High School in 1961. He and his family moved to Warren in 1962 due to the building of the Kinzua Dam. Murry attended Bryant and Stratton Business School in Buffalo, NY and later graduated from Edinboro College in 1967 with a degree in Elementary Education. He also attended The University of Pittsburgh graduating with a Masters Degree in Education specializing in remedial reading.
He married the beautiful Sharon Mae Gates on August 17, 1968 at the Pleasureville United Methodist Church in Pleasureville, PA. Sharon was deeply loved and sadly missed by Murry and his three children after she passed away suddenly on April 26, 1989 from an automobile accident. She will be forever loved by her family and friends.
Shirley A. (VanDusen) Weller, 75, of Wellsboro, PA passed away Sunday March 12, 2023 at The Green Home.
She was born June 23, 1947 in Corning, NY, to LaVern Delose and Myrtle Sephronia (Cole) VanDusen. Shirley was raised by her foster parents: Lee Harry and Mary Herrick Bulkley.
Shirley graduated from Corning Painted Post West High School in 1966, and Practical Bible Training School in 1970. She worked for several local businesses including the coffee shop in Dunham’s Department Store, but the jobs she enjoyed most were when she was able to do some baking. On May 31, 2013 she married Thomas Harry Weller with whom she shared nearly five years of marriage.
Shirley was a strong Christian and attended Daybreak Ministries and Charleston Baptist Church locally. She was an accomplished and avid baker, having made wedding cakes for friends and family, Shirley also enjoyed making crafts.
Shirley is survived by her son: Lee Bump of Wellsboro; two grandchildren: Brad Bump of Mansfield and Chloe Barrett of Troy; two great-grandchildren: Carson Bump and Ava Barrett; six brothers: Walter Ronald VanDusen (Mary Esther), LaVern Delose VanDusen (Susan), Charles Ernest VanDusen (Anne Louise), David Gerald VanDusen (Linda Jean), Leland Amos VanDusen (Margery), and Leslie Earl VanDusen (Missy); three sisters: Donna Marie Conkright, Vanda Jean Covell (Terry Lee), and Violet Patricia Meredith (Joseph); two sisters-in-law: Ginger VanDusen and Nancy A. VanDusen, and many nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her husband, parents, foster parents, two brothers: LaVern Robert VanDusen and Daniel Joseph VanDusen, and a brother-in-law: Hugh Francis Conkright.
Shirley’s family has entrusted the Tussey-Mosher Funeral Home 139 Main Street Wellsboro, PA with her arrangements. There will be a memorial service at a future date, and she will be interred in the Wellsboro Cemetery. To share a memory or condolence with her family visit: www.tusseymosher.com.
Gerald D. “Jerry” Lanphere, 73, a longtime resident of Roulette, passed away in his home on Monday, March 13, 2023, after a long illness.
Born on Saturday, April 2, 1949 in Olean, N.Y., he was a son of Leslie C. and Shirley J. Freelove Lanphere. On July 21, 1988 in Reno, Nevada, he married Pamela J. Varney, who survives.
Jerry was a graduate of Cameron County High School, Class of 1967. After graduating from high school, Jerry enlisted in the US Navy serving in the Viet Nam War. He was a career serviceman, his home base being the Naval Air Station Lemoore in California. He retired as a Chief Petty Officer after more than 21 years of honorable service to his country.
After his military service, Jerry was employed by Emporium Specialties in Austin, the former Ball Encon in Port Allegany, Pittsburgh Corning in Port Allegany, and lastly by Smith’s Fire Service in Eldred from where he retired. He also, along with his wife, owned and operated P.J.’s Family Restaurant in Roulette for 10 years. Sadly his health deteriorated after his retirement.
He was a former member of the Port Allegany American Legion and a former member of the Port Allegany Moose Club. He enjoyed hunting. He loved his dog, Bridgey who survives, and his dogs, Izzy and Daisey who predeceased him.
Left to cherish his memory are his wife; four children, Helen I. (Bobby) McGuire of Youngstown, Ohio, Bernard Hammond, Jr. of Port Allegany, Leslie E. (Erin) Lanphere of Port St. Lucie, Florida, and Jeremy O. Lanphere of Roulette; eleven grandchildren; a grandchild to be born in the Fall; three great-grandchildren; a great-grandchild to be born in the Fall; a sister, Dawn M. (Dennis McKeirman) Lanphere-Spencer of Port Allegany; a brother, Claude L. (Sherry) Lanphere of Sizerville; and several loving nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, Jerry was predeceased by three brothers and two sisters.
In keeping with Jerry’s wishes, there will be no public visitation or funeral services. Jerry will be laid to rest with his parents in the Bell Run Cemetery in Shinglehouse.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Roulette Volunteer Fire Department and Ambulance Association, PO Box 172, Roulette, PA 16746; to Teacher’s Pet Rescue, 19 Blackberry Lane, Coudersport, PA 16915; or to the Wounded Warrior Project at www.support.woundedwarriorproject.org
Jerry’s family has 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 Jerry, please visit www.virgillhowardfuneralhome.com or the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home Facebook page.
Gerald D. “Jerry” Lanphere, 73, a longtime resident of Roulette, passed away in his home on Monday, March 13, 2023, after a long 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.
Maryellen A. Bateski, 86, formerly of 29 Clark Drive, Bradford, passed away Monday, March 13, 2023, surrounded by her family at the Bradford Ecumenical Home.
Born on June 26, 1936, in Bronx, NY, she was a daughter of the late John and Agnes(Monihan) Cooley.
She was a graduate of Pauline High School in the Bronx. After high school she enrolled in the Elaine Powers Modeling School in New York.
On July 29, 1978, in Portville, NY, she married James L. Bateski, who passed away April 20, 2016.
She worked for IBM as a keypunch operator, in Poughkeepsie, NY.
Maryellen was a PTA president, the Variety Club Telethon Chair, she was an avid golfer, bowler, and gardener. She was a Lady Powder Puff Stock Car driver and enjoyed playing cards, especially euchre and blackjack, camping at Rainbow Lake and boating on Lake Chautauqua, with family and friends.
Surviving are three daughters, Vanessa (David) Hammond, of Portville, NY, Kathy (the late Kevin) McBride, of West Seneca, NY, Robin (Matthew) Ridenour, of Bradford, one son, Timothy (Tammy) Ortung, of South Carolina, one sister, Catherine (Robert) Powell, of Spring Hill, FL, one brother, John (Carol) Cooley, of MI, eight grandchildren, 14 great grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Jim of 37 years, one daughter, Lori Petty, three sisters, Joan Ruvola, Jeanette Schunk, and Agnes Cooley, and one brother, Edmund Cooley.
Friends will be received on Friday, March 17, 2023, from 1:00 to 2:00 PM in Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes Inc., 33 South Avenue, where funeral services will be held at 2:00 PM with Rev. John Jacquel, Pastor of St. Bernard Church, officiating. Burial will be in Willow Dale Cemetery.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes Inc.
Memorial contributions, if desired, may be made to the McKean County SPCA, PO Box 113, Bradford PA, 16701 or to a charity of the donor’s choice.
Annbeth Margaret Resotko (nee Kurtzo) passed away peacefully in her sleep on February 26, 2023, after a brief illness. She was born in Hackensack NJ on February 16, 1939, to Lawrence and Kathryn (Marolf) Kurtzo.
She graduated from Fairlawn High School in New Jersey in 1957 and became an office manager for an insurance company. She married John Resotko in October 1961, and they were together 41 years until his death in March 2002.
They relocated from New Jersey to Pennsylvania to become the owners of The Great Valley House Restaurant in Ansonia from 1971 to 1981, raising their family in a small apartment attached to the kitchen. Annbeth also worked for the Wellsboro Area School District in the high school cafeteria and as a custodian at Don Gill Elementary for almost 30 years. After her husband’s death, she also became a Hospice volunteer.
Besides her husband, she is preceded in death by her parents, and her two brothers, Robert A. Kurtzo in 1957 and Lawrence E. Kurtzo in 2019.
She is survived by her daughter, Terry Resotko Galler (Julius) of Goodyear, AZ and son, John Resotko (Christine) of Holt, MI along with her three beloved grandchildren: Kate Calles (Esai), Hannah Weir (Dylan Garcia) and Connor Resotko.
Annbeth was deeply devoted to her faith and was a member of St. Peter’s Catholic Church for over 40 years. She enjoyed working church dinners and thrift sales.
Cooking truly was her love language. She made fantastic meals and was a professional-level baker. She made holiday dinners single-handedly until her stroke in 2021 and then under exacting supervision! They were never as good as hers.
There are so many others that called her “mom” and she never turned away anyone in need. She was a safe and accepting harbor, being there without question or fail, guiding us through life’s toughest challenges with compassion, humor, wisdom, and cookies.
She was an avid reader. She loved family history and stories. She called nightly Jeopardy her “college.” In 2012, she moved to Arizona to enjoy warmer weather and be closer to her family. In the last 11 years, she became an enthusiastic Arizona Cardinals fan and loved cheering her team with her son-in-law Julius every Sunday!
Visitation with the family will be at Tussey Mosher Funeral Home 139 Main Street Wellsboro, PA on March 24, 2023, from 6-8pm. Mass of Christian Burial will be at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Wellsboro Pa on March 25 at 12pm with burial at St. Peter’s Cemetery, Pearl Street, Wellsboro.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to your local food bank in her honor. To share a memory or condolence with her family visit www.tusseymosher.com.
Charles L. Sisler, Sr., 74, of Bradford, passed away on Monday, March 13, 2023 at his home.
He was born on October 15, 1948 in Susquehanna.
In 1969 he married Lena Wailes; who preceded him in death.
He is survived by one son, James (Lori) Sisler of Bradford; three grandchildren, Kristen Sisler, Lucas Sisler and Chad Sisler all of Bradford and five great grandchildren.
In addition to his wife of 34 years, Lena Sisler he was also preceded in death by one son, Charles Sisler, Jr. and one daughter, Cherri Heffner.
Private funeral services will be held at the convenience of the family.
Funeral arrangements are entrusted to the care of the Mascho Funeral Home, Inc.
My beautiful wife, Joanne Marie Barbine, of Wellsboro, Pennsylvania, peacefully passed into heaven surrounded by her loving family on Friday, March 10,2023, at 62 years old. Joanne is survived by her husband George; her children George, Marianne Loheide (Matthew), and Jennifer Mulato (Raymond); her grandchildren Raymond, Nathan, Annabella, Carter, and Victoria; her sisters Kathleen and Annemarie; her aunt, Grace Dodds; and her brothers, Joey Barbine and David Grimes.
She was preceded in death by her parents, David E. Grimes and Anne M. Grimes; her sister, Judy Innamorato; and her brother, Steven P. Grimes.
Friends and relatives may visit at Tussey Mosher Funeral Home, 139 Main Street, Wellsboro, Pennsylvania, on March 18, 2023, from 9:30am–11:30am, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at St. Peter’s Catholic Church, 47 Central Avenue, Wellsboro, Pennsylvania, at 12:00pm.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Joanne’s name to the Wellsboro Firemen’s Ambulance Association, the Wellsboro Fire Department, or St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital.
Patricia I. “Pat” Pfeufer, 77, of 106 Capri Road, St. Marys, PA passed away Saturday, March 11, 2023 surrounded by her family at Good Samaritan Hospice in Wexford, PA.
She was born March 11, 1946 in St. Marys, daughter of the late Joseph and Margaret “Peg” Cooney Krellner. She was a lifelong resident of the area and a graduate of Elk County Christian High School, Class of 1964. Following high school, Pat pursued a degree in education, attending Villa Maria for her bachelor’s degree and Clarion State College for her master’s degree.
On August 17, 1968, at Queen of the World Church, she married Carl Pfeufer, who survives. Together they shared over 54 years of marriage. In 1993, they started their small tool and die business, Phaztech, Inc. They grew the business, which they viewed as an extension of their family, for more than 25 years.
Along with her caring husband, Pat is survived by three daughters: Sally Lion and her husband Andy, of Gibsonia, PA, Julie Sober and her husband Troy, of Stoneham, MA, and Christie Tenorio and her husband Ricardo, of Pittsburgh, PA; two sons: Gregg Pfeufer and his wife Ann, of Pittsburgh, PA, and Benji Pfeufer and his wife Tara, of DuBois, PA; ten grandchildren: Ava Lion, Reese Lion, Drew Lion, Olivia Sober, Lillian Sober, Thiago Tenorio, Bastian Tenorio, Maddie Pfeufer, Allie Pfeufer, and Alexas Pfeufer; four sisters: Sandy Metzler, Evelyn Krug and her husband Bud, Susanne Astley and her husband Bill, and Paula Micale and her husband Dan; one brother, Justin Krellner and his wife Becky; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
In addition to her parents, Pat was preceded in death by one sister, Kathy Wilson, survived by her husband Wally Wilson; and by two brothers, Teddy Krellner, survived by his wife Annice, and Brian Krellner, survived by his wife Chris.
Pat loved and accepted everyone. She called herself a ‘people collector’ because she loved to make connections with those around her and was always willing to lend a hand. She wanted nothing more than to make those around her happy. She lived a life of unwavering service to others and to God. She was a member of the Queen of the World Church where she was a Eucharistic Minister. As a hospice volunteer for the Community Nurses, she practiced Reiki. She also volunteered for Meals on Wheels and helped countless others along the way. Since her first cancer diagnosis in 1998, she organized annual fundraising for Relay for Life.
Family and friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial on Saturday, March 18, 2023 at 10:00 AM at Queen of the World Church with the Rev. Jeffery Noble, Pastor, celebrating.
Visitation will be held in the Lynch-Radkowski Funeral Home on Friday, March 17, 2023 from 4:00 PM until 7:00 PM.
Memorial contributions, if desired, may be made in memory of Patricia Pfeufer to Penn Highlands Heathcare Community Nurses, 757 Johnsonburg Road, Suite 200, Saint Marys, PA or to the Good Samaritan Hospice, C/O CLM Foundation, 134 Marwood Road, Cabot, PA 16023. Please also consider contributing to your local Relay for Life.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Lynch-Radkowski Funeral Home. Online condolences may be offered at www.lynch-radkowski.com.
Betty Jane COLWELL, 95, of Alma, NY, died Monday, March 13, 2023 in Olean General Hospital.
Born May 9, 1927, in Olean, she was the daughter of Virgil B. and S. Irene Gadsby Stebbins. On February 25, 1961, in Shinglehouse, she married Jacob I. Colwell, who predeceased her on September 25, 2019.
Betty was a 1945 graduate of Shinglehouse High School. She was employed by the United States Postal Service and was then transferred to the Social Security Administration Office in Olean. While her husband was in the military, she was transferred to the Washington D.C. office. From there, she worked for the US Air Force as a secretary in Maryland and Guam. When they returned to the area to live, she was employed by the ROTC at St. Bonaventure and then retired from the Olean Social Security Office.
Betty was a member of the Shinglehouse United Methodist Church.
Surviving are: two daughters, Mary Ann (Patrick) Dalton of Hamburg and Nancy (Richard) Middaugh of Alma; five grandchildren, Shawn (Amanda) Dalton, Shannon Dalton, Jacob Middaugh, Nicholas Middaugh, and Kaylee Middaugh; four nieces and nephews, including a close nephew Kirk (Margie) Stebbins of Shortsville.
In addition to her husband, she was predeceased by a brother, Edwin Stebbins.
Friends may call at Shinglehouse United Methodist Church, 209 N. Lincoln Street, Shinglehouse, PA on Monday, March 20, 2023 from 10:00 – 11:00 AM, with Funeral Services following at 11:00 AM. Rev. Preston L. Hutchins, Jr. will officiate. Burial will be in Maple Grove Cemetery, Shinglehouse. Memorials may be made to Shinglehouse United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 296, Shinglehouse, PA 16748.
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.
