Obituaries

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.

Online Condolences may be placed at www.BarnettFuneralHome.net 

BARNETT FUNERAL HOME, Inc. entrusted with arrangements.

Alice D. Eckert, 96, formerly of Rosely Rd., St. Marys, PA died on Wednesday, March 15, 2023 at Pinecrest Manor.

Funeral arrangements are incomplete and will be announced by the Lynch-Green Funeral Home.

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.

Smethport – Peggy J. Cunningham, 94, longtime resident of Betula and Smethport, PA passed away Tuesday (March 14, 2023) at her home.

At Peggy’s request, there will be no visitation or services.

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

 “beloved family man and proud veteran”

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. 

Online condolences may be expressed at www.hollenbeckcahill.com

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.  

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

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.

Irma Geiser , 91, of Germania, PA, passed away on Sunday, March 12, 2023 at UPMC Williamsport. 

Arrangements, which are incomplete at this time, have been entrusted to the Hess Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Galeton.   

CWO3 US Army (retired) Clark P. Hewitt, age 90, of Wellsboro, PA, died on March 9, 2023.

He was born on May 28, 1932 in St. Petersburg, FL, a son of the late John C. Hewitt and Dorothe Roache.  He was married to Akiko (Matsuda) Hewitt for 68 years.

Clark retired in 1970 from the US Army as a Nike-Hercules Senior Radar Technician and served in the Korean War and during the Vietnam War.  He is the recipient of the Purple Heart from wounds in the Korean War. 

Upon retirement from the Army, he was employed by the Boy Scouts of America as a District Scout Executive where he directed the Boy Scout programs in central Maine and then transferred to Wellsboro where he directed programs across north central Pennsylvania.

Clark was an active parishioner in St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Wellsboro.  He with Akiko are the owners of Akiko’s Floral Arts.

Clark is survived by his wife: Akiko Hewitt of Wellsboro, PA, six sons: William (Terry) Hewitt of Battle Creek, MI; Jyuji (Susan) Hewitt of Peach Bottom, PA, Clark Hewitt, Jr. of Wellsboro, PA, Timothy (Barbara) Hewitt of Stafford, VA, Patrick (Nancy) Hewitt of Wellsboro, PA, Joseph (Wendy Estock) Hewitt of Wellsboro, PA, and two daughters: Mary (Greg) Brannon of Hughesville, MD; and Therese Hewitt of Westford, VT.  He has three sisters: Merrie Anne Slater of St. Petersburg, FL; Valerie Hewitt of St. Petersburg, FL; and Susan (Alan) Hewitt-Hardacre of Macon, GA.   In addition, he has 18 grandchildren and 27 great grandchildren.

He was predeceased by his brother John Hewitt and 3 grandsons. 

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday, March 23, 2023 at 11:00 am at St. Peter’s Catholic Church, Wellsboro, PA with Rev. Bryan B. Wright officiating. Interment will be in St. Peter’s Catholic Cemetery, Wellsboro, PA. 

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

Donald Leroy Pratt, 85, of Warren, PA, passed on Saturday March 11, 2023, in the Warren Manor.

He was born on June 26, 1937, in Warren, PA, the son of the late Oras and Pauline Wonderling Pratt. Donald was a self-employed Autobody Repair Man and took great pride in his work. He enjoyed motorcycling, Nascar, camping, his pets and spending time with his family and friends.

Donald is survived by his children William Emple, Sandy Galloway of Bradenton, FL, and Katie Poff of Cortland, OH; ten grandchildren Lisa Hutchins, Anthony and Tammie Antonuccio of Kane, Adam, Cody, Tyler Fleming and Cassie Williams of Bradenton, FL, Jessie and William Emple of Warren, PA, and Brandy Benton of Cortland, OH; 17 great grandchildren; siblings David Pratt and wife Nancy of Sugar Grove, PA, and Beverly Devereaux of Warren, PA; several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his loving wife Mildred Pratt; two daughters Robin Antonuccio and Lynda Hughes; two grandchildren Jennifer Galloway and Ricky Antonuccio; two brothers Kenneth and Richard Pratt; and two nephews Ronny and Scott Devereaux.

Funeral services will be private and held at the convenience of the family. Burial will be in Warren County Memorial Park, next to his wife, Mildred. Those wishing to place memorials may do so through Paws Along the River, 212 Elm St. Warren, PA, 16365. The Donald E. Lewis Funeral Home Inc. has been entrusted with the final arrangements. E-mail condolences may be sent by visiting www.lewisfuneralhomeinc.com.

Clara J. Laskey, 73, of 89 East Main Street, Bradford, PA passed away Monday, March 13, 2023, at Bradford Manor.

Born December 12, 1949, in Springville, NY, she was a daughter of the late Earl M. and Nina V. (VanValkenburg) Fuller. She attended school in Springville NY.

On October 23, 2018, she married Howard Laskey who died in March of 2020.

Clara was employed in the health care field all her life, having worked at BRMC in the food service department, as a CNA in Olean and Allegany NY, at the Pavilion at BRMC and in Conshohocken.

Clara was a member of First Wesleyan Church, the Ladies Ministry, Encouragers, and Bible Study, and T.O.P.S.

Surviving is one daughter, Tammy (Christopher) Turner, of Allentown, one son, Robert Moore of Baxley GA, four grandchildren, and five great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, and one brother Morris Fuller.

Family will receive friends from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM on Thursday, March 16, 2023, at First Wesleyan Church, followed by funeral services 11:00 AM on Thursday, March 16, 2023, with Pastor Terri Niver, officiating. Burial will be in Hillside Cemetery, in Abigton.

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

Memorial contributions if desired may be made to the First Wesleyan Church.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.hollenbeckcahill.com

J Arland Wagner, age 87, of Middlebury Center, PA, passed away on Thursday, March 09, 2023.  He was born on July 13, 1935 in Middlebury Center, PA, a son of the late Charles D. and Elizabeth (Elsenheimer) Wagner and was married for 64 years to Elaine Audrey (VanZile) Wagner.  

A man of few words, his 64 year marriage spoke volumes of his never-ending devotion.  Arland was a proud dairy farmer, managing his herd for more than 60 years.  An avid outdoorsman, you could find Arland spending his spare time hunting and enjoying the outdoors. He was a loving father, grandfather and great-grandfather and found great joy in spending time with his family.

He is survived by his wife: Audrey Wagner, two daughters: Deborah Campbell and Melanie Love, both of Middlebury Center, PA, two sisters: Mary Ann Bachman, of Wellsboro, PA, Carol (Gene) Davis, of Dillsburg, PA, three grandchildren and five great grandchildren. 

A private family memorial service will be held at a later date. 

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

Nancy I. Kness, 73, of Hazel Hurst, PA, passed away Friday (March 10, 2023) surrounded by her loving family.

She was born May 27, 1949 in Kane, the daughter of Joseph E. Suain, Jr. and Hazel I. Taylor-Irons.  On April 22, 1967, in Bradford, she married Larry E. “Nutsy” Kness, who survives.

Nancy was a graduate of Smethport High School and had worked several part time jobs over the years while being a homemaker. She worked for the US Postal Service and Census Bureau while taking care of her family. Later, she began working for Helpmates and Evergreen Elm of Bradford because she enjoyed helping people. As a longtime member of the Hamlin Twp. Volunteer Fire Dept. Nancy often served as a flagger and helped with Bingo.

Nancy truly lived her life to the fullest through simple pleasures and was gifted at storytelling. A friend to so many, she enjoyed chatting and spending time with her friends and family, sitting on her front porch enjoying a good thunderstorm, or reading a book. In fact, as a child, she read every book in her home. Her love of cooking brought many canned goods and preserves. There was always something freshly baked, whether it be homemade bread or cookies being pulled out of the oven. Making crafts with her grandchildren and sewing also brought her joy, as would a “good deal”. For a number of years, Nancy was a member of the “Goodwill Frequent Flyer Club” and a Tupperware Salesperson.

Nancy was so many precious things to her friends and family. Her family describes her as “our” rock and they will miss her dearly.

In addition to her husband, Larry, she is survived by three daughters: Renae I. (Dick) Johnston of TN, Bobbi S. (Edward) Nystrom of Erie, and Misty L. (Cory) Kness of Mt. Jewett.

Six grandchildren:  Matthew (Cassie) Burt, Arthur Burt, Jonathan Kimble, Katelyn Kimble, Shelley Chapman and Amylia Jo Yasurek

Seven great grandchildren: Vata, Marcus, Rain, Harmony, Gideon, Lucian & Cameron and one great-great grandchild: Estella

One brother: Harold H. (Melissa E.) Suain of VA, and several nieces, nephews and step-siblings.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her niece Donna Suain-Giannattasio.

At Nancy’s request, there will be no visitation or services.

Family, friends and others whose lives Nancy touched are invited to donate to:

Fish n Kids Club, PO Box 97, Hazel Hurst PA 16733 or the Hamlin Twp. VFD Station 20, PO Box 104, Hazel Hurst PA 16733.  Online condolences may be made at www.hartle-tarboxfuneralhomes.com.

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

Michael A. Lukaschunis, 62, of Bradford and formerly of State Street, St. Marys, PA died on Saturday, March 11, 2023 at Erie County Medical Center in Buffalo, New York following an illness of the past few years.

Funeral arrangements are incomplete, and will be announced by the Lynch-Green Funeral Home.

Lorraine Ann Minor, of Coudersport, PA went home to be with the Lord on March 9, 2023, surrounded by her family.  

Lorraine Ann Moore was born on May 13, 1926, in Bethpage, New York, to Ellsworth and Florence Moore. She was one of seven children.

On September 21, 1947, she married the love of her life David Minor. After the marriage, Lorraine accompanied David to Providence, Rhode Island, to attend seminary at the Zion Bible Institute. Upon completion of David’s education, they returned to Long Island, New York, to work in ministry with their good friends Joseph and Marjorie Crandall.

While living in New York, Lorraine gave birth to three children, Sharon, Karen, and David. In 1956, David and Lorraine moved to Potter County, Pennsylvania, to help establish a new church, the Gospel Tabernacle. After the move to Pennsylvania, Lorraine gave birth to three more children, Stephen, Timothy, and John.

During her life, Lorraine was employed as an administrative assistant for a private business in New York and then at the Gospel Tabernacle until her retirement. During her early years in Coudersport, she supervised the playground at Coudersport Elementary School where she was often found providing clothing and hugs for the children. She was also honored to be a foster parent. 

Lorraine was known as a woman of integrity, humility, and compassion. Her acts of kindness were legendary. She was affectionately referred to as “Mother” because she was a mother figure to so many people. Even in her later years, Lorraine would often visit the local nursing homes, hospitals, and those who were homebound who had no visitors. She regularly purchased clothes and food for the less fortunate. Once you met Lorraine, you were no longer a stranger but a friend.  

She did all her kind acts in secret and never sought recognition for herself. Her husband would often say that the Church they built together in Coudersport would not have existed but for Lorraine’s love and sacrifice for her family, the congregation, and the community. After Lorraine’s passing, many messages flooded in from across the country from people whose lives she had impacted. 

Lorraine’s husband, Pastor David Minor, passed away in 2017, but she continued her personal ministry of compassion, and when she could no longer walk, she was often heard on the phone offering support, prayers, and encouragement from her bed. Many lost souls found their way to her bedside for counseling and prayer. 

Lorraine is predeceased by her brothers Charlie (Mary) Moore and Buddy (Mary) Moore, and sisters Nellie (George) Linden and Lillian Moore, and her son Timothy (Barb) Minor. 

She is survived by her brothers, Jay (Lore) Moore and George (Susan) Moore, sister Ruth (John) Sallade; her five children, Sharon (Larry) Richter, Karen (Tim) Knapp, David (Michelle) Minor Jr., Stephen (Marie) Minor and John (Gina) Minor; her 17 grandchildren; 27 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild. Because Lorraine had a way of making each of her children and grandchildren feel special, they all felt that they were her favorite.    

Lorraine joins her husband, David, of 71 years, her son, her parents, siblings, and friends in heaven. Well done, thou good and faithful servant. Our lives were enriched because of you. 

Public viewing will occur on Saturday March 18, 2023, at the Gospel Tabernacle Church, 420 US Route 6 West, Coudersport, Pennsylvania, from 12:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. with a Celebration of Life Service.

The family has entrusted Lorraine’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.

“beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and aunt”

Ruby A. Stahl, 69, a lifelong resident of Austin, PA passed away with her loving family by her side on Thursday, March 9, 2023, in Robert Packer Hospital, Sayre, after a short illness.

Born on Tuesday, June 23, 1953 in Port Allegany, she was a daughter of Woodrow and Norma Murray Lentz.  On August 11, 1990 in Emporium, she married Alfred “Al” Stahl, who survives.

Ruby attended Austin Area High School. She was employed by Emporium Specialties in Austin for 29 years as a machine operator and inspector.  She was later employed by the Austin Area School in the janitorial department and the cafeteria until her retirement in 2018.

Ruby was a member of the Austin United Methodist Church.  She was also a very active life member of the Austin Volunteer Fire Department,  an active member of the Austin Pride Committee, a life member of the VFW Auxiliary 7810 in Austin, and a member of the Crazy Ladies Get Together Club.

Ruby had many hobbies which she thoroughly enjoyed, including plastic canvas and crocheting.  Each Christmas she was a part of the annual craft bazaar at the Austin School.. She enjoyed playing Bingo.  Her greatest love was her family, especially her grandchildren.

Left to cherish her memory are her husband of 32 years; a son, Alfred Q. “Alfie” Stahl of Emporium; twin grandchildren, Addyson Carpin and Grayson Carpin; a sister, Patty (Jack) Payne of Port Allegany; several nieces and nephews, including her grandniece, Carrie R. Zawatski, whom Ruby considered like a granddaughter; and a brother-in-law, Arthur Moate of Port Allegany.

In addition to her parents, Ruby was predeceased by a sister, Sarah Moate.

Family and friends may call from 11am to 1pm on Saturday, March 25, 2023, at the Austin United Methodist Church, Turner Street, Austin, where a Celebration of Life will follow at 1pm in the church with Pastor Todd Lamer, officiating. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials in Ruby’s name may be made to Austin Volunteer Fire Department, PO Box 328, Austin, PA 16720 or to the Austin Pride Committee, c/o Joseph Pennypacker, 28 Reading Street, Austin, PA 16720.

Ruby’s family has entrusted her care 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 Ruby, please visit www.virgillhowardfuneralhome.com or the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home Facebook page.