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.
Dorothy E. Zimbicki, 95, of Russell, PA., died Friday February 10, 2023, in her home, with her family by her side, after an extended illness.
She was born May 21, 1927 in Heidelberg, PA., the daughter of the late Henry and Dorothy Briggs Hoeflich, Sr. She has resided in the Russell area since 1986 moving from Carnegie, PA. Dorothy was employed with the Warren Manor Nursing Home in the Laundry Dept. since 1988.
She is survived by 2 Sons – Stanley Zimbicki, Jr. and his wife, Cindy of Russell, PA., and Don Zimbicki of Pittsburgh, PA., 4 Daughters – Marlene Fricano of Cary, N.C., Joyce Sixsmith of Westfield, NY, Dorothy Moretti and husband, Mark of Carnegie, PA., and Karen Lytle of NC., 1 Sister – Anna Marie Hamilton of Ohio; and several grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Stanley Zimbicki, Sr. whom she married January 19, 1949 in Heidelberg, PA, and one brother Henry Hoeflich, Jr.
Private services and internment will take place at the National Cemetery of the Alleghenies at the convenience of the family. Those wishing to place memorials may do so through Aseracare Hospice, 12664 US-19 Unit 1A, Waterford PA 16441. The Donald E. Lewis Funeral Home, Inc. has been entrusted with the funeral arrangements. E-mail condolences may be sent by visiting www.lewisfuneralhomeinc.com.
Donald E. HACKMAN, 84, of Ulysses, PA, died Saturday, February 11, 2023 in his home.
Born October 7, 1938, in Bethlehem, he was the son of Paul and Mary Keeler Hackman. On June 22, 1985, in Galeton, he married the former Patricia A. Freeman Emmick, who predeceased him on October 4, 2021.
He was employed by the Carpenter’s Union and worked as a self-employed carpenter. An outdoorsman, he loved hunting, fishing, and camping.
Surviving are: five step-children, Michael Emmick of Wellsboro, Donald Emmick of Nelson, Donna (Vincent Monks) Emmick of Wellsboro, Bruce (Shannon) Emmick of Ulysses, and Ben (Candy) Emmick of Ulysses; eight grandchildren; several great-grandchildren; three sisters, Elaine Stevens of Houston, TX, Louise (Norman) Yons of Coopersburg, and Linda (John) Culpepper of Allentown; lifelong friend, George Heiserman of Zionsville; nieces and nephews.
In addition to his wife, he was predeceased by three brothers, Floyd Hackman, Robert Hackman, and Leonard Hackman; a step-daughter, Brenda Bowen; three grandsons, Michael L. Emmick, Jr., Dennis Emmick, and Jesse Adams; and two step-daughters-in-law, Carol Emmick and Debra Emmick.
Services will be private. Burial will be in Niles Valley Cemetery, Middlebury Center.
Memorials may be made to Goodyear Hose Co., Galeton, 16922 or Tri-Town Volunteer Fire Co., Ulysses, PA 16948.
Arrangements are entrusted to Olney-Foust Funeral Homes & Crematory, Ulysses, PA. Online condolences may be expressed at www.olneyfoust.com.
Joshua Stuart SILSBY, 31, of Andrews Settlement, PA, died Friday, February 10, 2023 as a result of injuries sustained in an automobile accident in Ulysses Township. Arrangements will be announced by Olney-Foust Funeral Homes & Crematory, Ulysses, PA. Online condolences may be expressed at www.olneyfoust.com.
Mary Jane “Butzie” Raubenstrauch, 88, of the Lutheran Home at Kane and formerly of Klodike, Johnsonburg, passed away Thursday morning, February 9, 2023 at the Lutheran Home following a brief illness.
She was born on September 2, 1934 in Ridgway a daughter to the late Harold and Florence Steger Erickson. On July 6, 1968 in Holy Rosary Church, Johnsonburg, she married Stephen James “Jimmy” Raubenstrauch. He preceded her in death on June 25, 1992.
Mary Jane had graduated from Ridgway High School. She resided in Johnsonburg for most of her life and was a member of Holy Rosary Church. She enjoyed being a homemaker, caring for and loving her pets and going to yard sales.
She is survived by her brother Charles “Chuck” Erickson of Ridgway and numerous nieces and nephews.
In addition to her parents and husband, Mary Jane is predeceased by brothers Walter “Snookie”, Donald, Norman and Clifford Erickson, and sisters Doris Launer and Maxine Gunsallus.
Friends and family are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial for Mary Jane Raubenstrauch to be conducted at Holy Rosary Church, Johnsonburg on Thursday, February 16, 2023 at 10 AM with Fr. David Wilson, Pastor as celebrant. Interment will be in Holy Rosary Cemetery. There will be no visitation.
If desired, memorial contributions should be made in her name to the Lutheran Home at Kane, 100 High Point Dr., Kane, PA 16735.
Arrangements are under direction of the Anthony F Ferragine Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc., 401 Chestnut Street Johnsonburg, PA.
Richard Eugene Appleby Sr., 82, resident of Greenwood, passed away Friday, February 10, 2023, at Self Regional Healthcare.
Born February 8, 1941, in Bradford, PA, he was a son of the late Herbert Thomas Appleby, Sr. and Alice Octavia Stark Appleby. He was a graduate of Otto-Eldred High School and was an avid reader and loved thrift stores. He enjoyed being outside, loved collecting blue glass, and was an animal lover especially his buddy Duncan.
Surviving are a son, William Alan Appleby of Pittsburgh, PA; a sister, Rebecca Schoenberger (Robert C.) of Greenwood; a brother, Ronald E. Appleby of Eldred, PA; and a great-grandson, Jamie Studeny.
He was predeceased by a son, Richard E. Appleby, Jr.; a granddaughter, Jade E. Appleby; two sisters, Sondra Guilford and Annie Williams and a brother, Herbert Thomas Appleby, Sr.
A memorial service will be held at a later date in Pennsylvania.
Lucille A. Foster Baker Shavalier, of 15 First St., Eldred, and a former Olean, N.Y. and Portville, N.Y. resident, passed away Wednesday (Feb. 8, 2023) peacefully, at home.
Born June 27, 1936, in Rochester, she was the daughter of the late Edward and Sydney Jellison Foster. Lucille first married Lyman W. Baker Sr., and together they had four children. On Jan. 16, 1993, at the former Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Portville, she married Daniel Shavalier, who survives.
Lucille worked as an inspector for Cooper Power Systems (now Eaton) in Olean for several years.
She was a proud parishioner of the St. Mary of the Angels Basilica. In her younger years, Lucille served on the altar society at Sacred Heart Catholic Church.
In her free time, Lucille enjoyed her perennial gardens and sending birthday cards to her extended family and friends. She will fondly be remembered as being the best pie maker and baker.
In addition to her husband of 30 years, Lucille is survived by three children, Lucinda Baker of Eldred, Lance (Martha) Baker of Eldred and Leslea Baker Weil of Philadelphia; eight grandchildren, Kristin (Dennis) Kupiec, Amanda (Jude) Auman, Lance E. (Sarah) Baker, Jeffrey (Morgan) Baker, Zachary Weil, Peter (Marjorie Fiering) Weil, Lily Weil and Adam Weil; four great-grandchildren, Jude, Luke, Sawyer and Lincoln; one sister, Joan (Jerry) Jordan; and several nieces and nephews.
She was predeceased by one son, Lyman W. Baker Jr.; and two sisters, Francine Aloi and Sydney Foster.
Family and friends will be received from 4 to 7 p.m. Monday (Feb. 13, 2023) at the Guenther Funeral Home, Inc., 51 S. Main St., Portville. Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Tuesday (Feb. 14, 2023) at the Sacred Heart Oratory, 43 Maple St., Portville. Burial will follow in Chestnut Hill Cemetery, Portville.
In lieu of flowers, memorials, if desired, may be made to the American Cancer Society, cancer.org; or to St. Mary of the Angels Basilica, 202 S. Union St., Olean.
Roger L. Okerlund, 73, of Berts Dr., Port Allegany, PA passed away Thursday (Feb. 9, 2023) in Lakeview Senior Care & Rehabilation, Smethport, PA.
Born December 21, 1949, in Kane, PA, he was a son of John E. and Gayle Cole Okerlund. On June 18, 1977 in Smethport, he married Linda M. Harpster, who died Dec. 5, 2018.
Roger was a lifetime resident of the area and a graduate of Smethport Area High School, class of 1968.
He was a veteran of the Vietnam War, having served with the US Navy.
Roger was employed with the Penn. Dept. of Transportation for 35 years as assistant maintenance manager, before his retirement.
He was a member of the East Smethport United Christian Church, Port Allegany Fire Dept., McKean County Fair Assoc., and Moose Lodge #460, Port Allegany.
Surviving is a son, Jason L. (Danielle) Okerlund of Port Allegany; a daughter, Stephanie M. (Travis) Rankin of Port Allegany; four grandchildren: Savannah and Madison Okerlund, Jackson and Lyndee Rankin; two brothers, Gerald (Muriel) Okerlund of Gifford, and twin Robert (Joan) Okerlund of Marvindale, PA; two sisters, Donna Kay Carpenter of Port Deposit, MD, Debra (Richard) Plummer of Eldred; and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, Linda, two grandchildren, Watt and Levi Rankin; and a brother, John W. Okerlund.
Friends will be received from 1-4 p.m. Sunday (Feb. 12, 2023) in the Switzer Funeral Home, Port Allegany, where a funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Monday (Feb. 13, 2023) with Rev. Allen Young and Rev. Max Simms, co-officiating. Burial will be in Grimes Cemetery. Port Allegany.
Memorials can be made to the Port Allegany Fire Dept. or Port Area Ambulance Service.
Condolences can be made to: Jason L. Okerlund, 25 Berts Dr., Port Allegany, PA 16743
Sandra K. (McConnell) Williammee, 71, of Wellsboro, PA passed away Thursday, February 9, 2023 at UPMC Cole in Coudersport.
She was born November 14, 1951 in Blossburg to Grant M. and Lorna (Crumb) McConnell. Sandra worked as a personal care aide at the Green Home and volunteered at the Tioga County Homeless Shelter. She attended the Marsh Creek Fellowship Baptist Church, was a member of the Ladies Chapter 60 of the Wellsboro Moose and was a life member of the VFW Auxilliary in Mansfield for over 30 years.
Sandra is survived by a son: Martin Jelliff of Lawrenceville; four daughters: Amber Lynn Hull of California, Vickie Lynn Swan (Michael Hart) of Middlebury Center, Angela Renee Knighten (Loretta) of Wellsboro, and DelAnn Marie Swan of Wellsboro; a step-son: Mikey Williammee (Chelsea) of State College; a son-in-law: Russell Hull “Golden Child” of Antrim; nine grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; two sisters: Patricia “Pat” McConnell Heck (Wayne) of Middlebury Center, and Diane M. McConnell Ferrell (Tony), and close lifelong friends: Nora Boom and Sandy Crumb.
She was preceded in death by her parents, a granddaughter: Ciara Hart, and her companion: John Thompson.
Friends and family are invited to pay tributes to Sandra’s life from 11:00am – 1:00pm on Wednesday, February 15, 2023 at the Tussey-Mosher Funeral Home, 139 Main Street, Wellsboro, PA, with a funeral service to follow in the funeral home. To share a memory or condolence with her family visit www.tusseymosher.com.
Nancy J. Sweet, 94, of Knoxville, PA passed away Thursday, February 9, 2023 at UPMC Cole in Coudersport.
She was born October 31, 1928 in Taylor, Pa to James and Hannah (Curtis) Morgan. On August 7, 1970, she married Robert N. Sweet, and together they owned and operated the Country Store Sewing Center in Wellsboro.
Nancy had been a member of the Dexter Baptist Church, and more recently was a member of the Butler Hill Baptist Church. She loved sewing, and was very active in her church and especially enjoyed singing in church.
Nancy is survived by her son: James (Maria D.) Ace of Knoxville, PA, a daughter: Linda Kiefer of Lexington, VA; three grandchildren: Ashley Zakowitz, Morgan LeRoyer, and Robert Ace; 10 great-grandchildren; and two sisters: Beverly Rodgers, and Gail Morgan. She was preceded in death by her parents; three husbands: William Lanzer, Ronald Ace, and Robert Sweet; a sister: Gertrude Griffiths; and three brothers: Harold, Jimmy, and Wendel Morgan.
Friends and family are invited to pay tribute to Nancy’s life from 6:00-8:00pm Monday, February 13, 2023 at the Tussey-Mosher Funeral Home, 139 Main Street, Wellsboro, PA, and to her funeral service 11:00am Tuesday, February 14, 2023 in the funeral home with pastor William O’Neil officiating. Burial will be in the West Branch Cemetery.
Donations in her memory may be made to the Butler Hill Baptist Church, 1141 Butler Hill Road, Knoxville, PA 16928. To share a memory or condolence with her family visit www.tusseymosher.com.
Howard W. JACKSON, 88, of Wellsville, NY, passed away Friday, February 3, 2023. A Memorial Service will be held 11:00 AM, Saturday, February 11, 2023 in Knights Creek Evangelical Methodist Church. Rev. Carl Kemp will officiate. Burial will be in Knights Creek Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to Highland Park Rehabilitation and Nursing Center, 160 Seneca St., 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.
Dorothy M. Wennin, 93, of Coudersport, PA passed away at UPMC Susquehanna in Williamsport Wednesday, February 8, 2023.
She was born May 21, 1929 in Keating, PA, and graduated from high school in Renovo, PA.
Early in her life Dorothy worked for Sylvania, later she worked for Green Thumb , and Futures, and then she worked with the Cancer Society.
Outside of her work, she enjoyed doing crafts and volunteering as a Cub Scouts leader and a 4H leader. Dorothy was also a member of the St. Eulalia Catholic Church in Coudersport and a 60+ year member of the Catholic Daughters.
Dorothy is survived by her son: Martin Wennin of Coudersport, and several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents and her siblings.
Friends and family are invited to her funeral Mass at 11:00am Tuesday, February 14, 2023 in the St. Eulalia Catholic Church with Rev. Daniel Hoffman officiating. Memorials in her memory may be made to the American Cancer Society ,P.O. Box 6704, Hagerstown, MD 21741.
Her family has entrusted the Thomas E. Fickinger Funeral Home, 210 N. East Street, Coudersport, PA with her arrangements. To share a memory or condolence with her family visit www.thomasfickinger.com.
Denise A. Zuchowski, 47, of St. Marys, passed away peacefully at her home on Wednesday, February 8, 2023, following a lengthy battle not only with cancer, but with years of addiction. She was born on October 31, 1975 in Ridgway, PA, a daughter of the late Leo S. “Butch” Zuchowski, Jr., who preceded her in death in 2005, and Mary Stevens Zuchowski, who survives of St. Marys.
On May 31, 2015, in Ridgway, she married Willard Kennedy, who survives of St. Marys. Denise was a graduate of Ridgway High School, class of 1994. She worked as a nurse’s aid at numerous places over the years, and also worked at Goodwill. She enjoyed spending time outdoors, especially enjoying camping. She enjoyed attending the handicapped fish rodeos, and was fond of her dog, Lucy. Denise will be remembered as a kind and giving wife, mother, sister, and daughter who had a big heart and would help anyone.
In addition to her mother and her husband, she is survived by 4 children; Amanda (Billy) Rich of NJ, Angelina “Rita” Maturano of NJ, Alexander Zuchowski of St. Marys, and Adriana Maturano of NJ; and by 1 granddaughter; Colbie. She is also survived by five siblings; Eugene Lillie of St. Marys, Robert Lillie of Butler, Mary Kay Lillie of NJ, Dagus Zuchowski of St. Marys, and Molly Zuchowski of St. Marys, as well as by numerous nieces and nephews. She is also survived by 2 step-children; Nico and Morgan, her paternal grandmother; Evelyn Beers of St. Marys, her best friend and constant source of support; Susan Catalano and by a special aunt; Sharon Zuchowski.
A Memorial Service for Denise A. Zuchowski will be held on Tuesday, February 14, 2023 at 11:00 AM at Lynch-Green Funeral Home.
Friends and family will be received at the Lynch-Green Funeral Home on Tuesday, February 14, 2023 from 10:00 AM until the time of the service.
Memorial Contributions may be made to a favorite charity.
Dianne L. Kohl, 71, of 426 Water Street, Johnsonburg, and formerly of Emporium Arms, Emporium and Coudersport, PA, died early Thursday morning, February 9, 2023 at her residence following a lengthy illness.
She was born on June 17, 1951 in Cuba, NY a daughter to the Frances I. Truax Story and the late William C. Kottwitz. She had been married to the late Roy Washburn and the late Charles Kohl.
Dianne was a 1969 graduate of Coudersport High School and had lived most of her life in the Coudersport area and had been a member of the Sweden Valley United Methodist Church.
Dianne is survived by her son Shane M. Washburn and his wife Tonya of Johnsonburg, her mother Frances I. Story and her husband Arthur, a sister Sharon Haskins and her husband Ron of Sweden Valley and a brother Bill Kottwitz and his wife Linda of St. Marys. She will also be missed by her special cat, Bear.
She is predeceased by her father William and husbands Roy Washburn and Charles Kohl.
Funeral Services for Dianne L. Kohl will be private and at the convenience of the family. There will be no visitation.
Arrangements are under direction of the Anthony F Ferragine Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc. 401 Chestnut Street Johnsonburg, PA.
If desired, memorial contributions should be made to the charity of ones choice.
Bonnie S. Orinko, 73, a resident of Barnes and formerly of Kane, PA passed away peacefully at UPMC-Hamot, surrounded by her family, on Monday (Feb. 6). Bonnie was born on Dec. 21, 1949 in Kane to the late Jack and Joyce (Spence) Bundy.
Bonnie was proud of her Mayflower and Boones Mountain heritage and loved to tell stories of growing up on the west end of Kane, where “the west end was the best end”. She also liked to tell of her ice skating abilities and her responsibilities as a school patrol member.
On Oct. 3, 1997 she married Denny Orinko, who survives. Bonnie is also survived by her children, Larry (Betty) Beimel, Tammy (Tim) Weidow, and Shawn Beimel, all of Kane, and Mary (Frank) Bernecky of Burning Well; five stepchildren, Kim (Todd) Fitch, Denise (Mike) Heckathorn, Lori (Kyle) McNeal, Stan Orinko and Theresa (Tony) Nally; Eleven grandchildren, thirteen step grandchildren, four great-grandchildren and seven step great-grandchildren.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a son, Scott Beimel, brothers, Robert, Jack and Mike, a grandson Jacob Bernecky and her pets Kiki and Tito.
Friends are invited to attend a memorial service which will take place on Feb. 17, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. at the Cummings Funeral Home.
Memorial donations may be made to the Kane Depot Preservation Society, P.O. Box 525, Kane, PA 16735.
Joyce L. Reinard, 88, of Fraley St. in Kane, PA passed away Tuesday, Feb. 7, 2023, at UPMC-Kane. She was born in Ludlow on Feb. 22, 1934, the daughter of the late Arthur and Bertha (Keller) Larson. On June 11, 1994, she married William Reinard, who preceded her in death.
Joyce was a 1952 graduate of Kane. She had worked as a waitress at many establishments including the Kane Manor and the Arcade Restaurant. She loved people and treated everyone as family. She attended Living Waters Free Methodist Church, New Beginnings Assembly of God and the First Church of God, and supported many ministries and missionaries. She enjoyed music and played the Piano, guitar, accordion, and tambourine. Joyce loved spending time with her family and she loved Dylan, her cockatoo.
She is survived by two sons, Don (Kelly) Bush Jr. of Kane and John (Carolyn) Bush Sr. of Clarendon; one daughter, Beverly (Scott) Austin of Kane; her son James’ fiancé Patricia Bigley; one stepson Robert Reinard of Virginia; thirteen grandchildren, Melissa Haight, Melanie Bush, Robert Bush, Rhawnie Barrett, John Bush Jr., Kevin Bush, Rebecca Lucas, Shelby Brennan, Riley Austin, Joseph Bush, Andrew Bush, Kayla Leet and Caleb Leet; 21 great-grandchildren, 5 great great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by one son James A. Bush, one grandson Micheal P. Bush, one great-grandson John H. Bush III; her former husband and father of her children Don R. Bush Sr.; four brothers, Robert, Leonard and Keith Larson and Harold Larson in infancy and six sisters, Doris Malm, Mildred Johnson, Ruth Dillenbeck, Lucille Swedenhjelm, Martha Eastman and Betty Larson in childhood.
Friends are invited to attend a visitation which will take place at the Cummings Funeral Home on Friday (Feb. 10) from 4:00-7:00 p.m. A funeral service will be conducted on Saturday at 11:00 a.m. at the First Baptist Church of Kane, with the Rev. John H. Bush Jr. of Living Waters Free Methodist church officiating. Burial will be in Gibbs Hill Cemetery.
Memorial donations may be made to the McKean County SPCA, 80 Glenwood Ave., Bradford, PA 16701.
Harold (Harry) Eugene Blair (67) of Johnsonburg, PA sadly passed away in his home February 5th, 2023 after a little over a year’s battle with stage 4 cirrhosis.
Harry was born September 6th of 1955 in Twinfalls, Idaho to Jodie & Emma Blair. He married Renee Dawn Blair in Las Vegas, NV on April 27th, 2009.
He was preceded in death by his mother Emma Christine Blair and his father Jodie Carl Blair.
He leaves behind his wife Renee of 14 years, his sisters Emma Jo Blair and Phyllis Blair, brother Ronald Dean Blair of Emmett, ID , a son Clayton John Blair of Texas, 2 step-daughters Danielle Button of St Marys PA and Kassandra (Abraham) Gilmore of Kane PA, 2 stepsons John (Megan) Baker of Metropolis, IL and Brandon McFall of Strattenville, PA along with 15 grandchildren, 2 great-grandaughters, and several nieces and nephews.
Harry was a potato farmer with his father in Idaho when he was young. He went on to serve in the United States Army from March 1977 until September 1991 where he spent 9 years active duty and repaired attack helicopters. After the army he was a truckdriver for many years with various companies. He also worked as a geothermal driller for Enlink Geothermal. He was last employed with Targeted Pet Treats in Warren, PA when he decided to take early retirement in 2018 to enjoy time with family.
Harry’s kids and grandkids were his world. He loved his dog (Ladybug) who followed him everywhere and was always by his side. He also loved seafood, fishing, gardening, tinkering with anything in the garage, and doing small engine repairs after retirement.
There will be no formal funeral services as he requested cremation. However, there will be a small celebration of life scheduled at a later date when the weather is warmer.
Della J. “Jean” Ecklund, 82, of Ridgway, PA died on Wednesday, Februarys 8, 2023, at Penn Highlands Elk.
She was born on June 5, 1940, a daughter of the late Daniel and Florence Sherman Sherry.
Jean was a resident of Ridgway for many years. She enjoyed going camping, sitting around the fire and listening to country music with friends. Jean had a special love for family, and enjoyed family gatherings.
Jean is survived by 5 daughters; Pamela Davidson of Kane, Christine Prechtl and her husband Mark of Ridgway, Susan Parson and her husband Jay of Ridgway, Sharon Hamilton and her husband Brian of Ridgway, Amy Piccirillo and her husband Tony of Ridgway, 2 sons; Gregory Ecklund and his wife Aloha of Ridgway and Mark Ecklund and his wife Pam of Kersey, 27 grandchildren,30 great grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a daughter, Lynn Skerl, a great grandchild, Ronnie Jean Smith, a son-in-law, Robert Davidson, a sister, Patricia Sherry, a brother Daniel Sherry, a brother at birth, Dennis Sherry, and the father of her children, Ronald Ecklund.
A Celebration of Life for Della J. Ecklund will be celebrated on Saturday, February 18, 2023, at 3:00 PM at North Broad Fire Hall, 28 North Broad Street, Ridgway, PA 15853.
All family and friends are welcome.
Memorial contributions can be made to Elk County Humane Society.
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
Robert D. Johnson, 86, of Bradford, PA passed away on Wednesday, February 8, 2023 at the Pavilion at BRMC.
He was born on July 2, 1936 in Bradford, the son of the late David and Elizabeth Iddings Johnson.
He was a 1954 graduate of the Bradford Area High School.
On August 9, 1958 in the St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church he married Marilyn A. Merkt; who survives.
He was a member of the BAHS Alumni Association and a former member of 50+. He also enjoyed spending time with his wife and their many friends on their various road trips.
He was employed by the local oil refinery for forty six years until he retired from ARG in 2000.
In addition to his wife of 64 years, Marilyn Johnson of Bradford; he is also survived by one son, Gregg (Evelyn) Johnson of The Woodlands, TX; two daughters, Christine (Steven) Moyer of Bradford and Kelly (Rocky DeCasper) Frisina of Bradford; eight grandchildren, Brandon Moyer, Katie Williamson, Erica Moyer, Carley Frisina, Natalie Frisina, Nick Johnson, Shannon Johnson and Adriana Johnson and six great grandchildren.
In addition to his parents he was also preceded in death by one son, Mark Johnson and one granddaughter, Sarah Johnson.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, February 11, 2023 at the Mascho Funeral Home, Inc. from 11:00 AM until 1:00 PM with a funeral service to immediately follow at 1:00 PM in the funeral home with the Rev. James Gutting, senior associate pastor of the St. Bernard Catholic Church, officiating.
Private burial will be in St. Bernard Cemetery.
Memorial contributions in his memory may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.
Funeral arrangements are entrusted to the care of the Mascho Funeral Home, Inc.
