BOLIVAR – Winifred F. Barber, also know as “Winnie,” passed away Friday (Dec. 1, 2023) at the age of 85, in Rochester.
She was born July 31, 1938, in Olean, to the late Junior and Loretta Gowan.
Winnie was a loving wife, mother and grandmother, and she will be deeply missed by her family and friends.
Winnie was a graduate of Olean High School and later worked for Service Stores/Park and Shop. She also had a career as a teacher’s aide at Allegany/Cattaraugus County BOCES.
Winnie was a faithful prayer warrior and had a passion for serving in her local church. She worshiped at the First Day Baptist Church in Richburg and later at Grace Baptist Church in Marion.
Port Allegany – A Celebration of life for Karen A. Benjamin, 67, of Port Allegany, who passed away Friday (November 17, 2023) will be held on Saturday, December 9, 2023 at the Port Allegany Moose Club, Pearl St, Port Allegany from 1pm till 4pm.
Arrangements are under the direction of the Hartle-Tarbox Funeral Homes, Inc., Port Allegany.
Paul H. Blank, 79, of 216 Rose Street, Johnsonburg, and formerly of St. Marys, Punxsutawney and McKeesport, died Friday morning, December 1, 2023 at Penn Highlands-Elk, St. Marys, PA.
Paul was born on January 17, 1944 and was originally from McKeesport, PA. Paul was a Vietnam War Army Vet serving as a Tech Sergeant-Medic with the 2nd Evac Hospital MAH MEDDAC. For his service he received the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm, 5 Overseas Bars, Good Conduct Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal with Device, Army Commendation Medal, Sharpshooter Badge with Carbine Bar, Expert Badge with Automatic Rifle Bar and Marksman Badge with Rifle Bar.
Charles M. NELSON, 87, of Genesee, PA, died Monday, December 4, 2023 in his home.
Born June 29, 1936, in Bingham Twp., he was the son of Charles B. and Mary M. Easton Nelson. On November 9, 1956, in Potter Brook, he married the former Laura J. Carpenter, who survives.
A 1953 graduate of Genesee High School, he attended trade school in Olean, NY. He was employed by Rankin Dairy in Westfield, Ingersoll-Rand in Painted Post, Downer’s Hardware and Building Supply in Genesee for 13 years, Dresser-Rand in Wellsville for 12 years, Cass Appliance in Ulysses for several years, self-employed technician for ten years, and served as Bingham Township Tax Collector for 24 years, retiring at age 85.
He served as Bingham Township Supervisor for 22 years and treasurer of North Bingham Cemetery since 1982. He owned and operated Charles B. Nelson Sons Maple with his brother, Don.
Maxine A. WATTER, 80, of Wellsville, NY, died Sunday, December 3, 2023 at Manor Hills Assisted Living, Wellsville.
Born April 12, 1943, in Huntington, Long Island, she was the daughter of Max and Tillie Urban Watter. A 1961 graduate of Half Hollow Hills High School in Long Island, she earned her BA in Art and English from Elmira College, MS in Art Education from Syracuse University, MFA and CAS in Synesthetic Education from Syracuse University, and MFA in Art from Marywood College in Scranton, PA.
Victor A. “Vic” Wentworth, 91, of 800 West Washington Street, Bradford, PA passed away Saturday, December 2, 2023, at his home surrounded by his family.
Born on May 31, 1932, in Duke Center, he was a son of the late Glenn and Vivian (Barnes) Wentworth.
Vic graduated from Bradford Area High School in 1952. On January 5, 1953, he enlisted in the United States Army. He served during the Korean War and was honorably discharged January 4, 1955.
Vic worked many years as a food representative for several food service companies in the western New York and western Pennsylvania area.
Rose A. Kline, 89, passed away on Saturday, December 2, 2023 at Penn Highlands DuBois following a short illness.
She was born on October 1, 1934 in Brooklyn, NY, a daughter of the Isaac Gusmerotti and Marie Bleggi Gusmerotti.
On December 18, 1971, she married the late Richard Kline, who preceded her in death in 2000. Together they shared nearly 30 years of marriage.
Rose was a graduate of Horton High School and a member of Queen of the World Church. Rose enjoyed cooking and reading. To Rose, her family was her life and she delighted in caring for them. Always ready to help with her grandchildren, she loved nothing more than watching her grandkids grow. She will be remembered as a loving wife, mother, and “Nona”.
Rose is survived by two sons; James Klein and his wife Cindy of St. Marys, and Donald Klein and his wife Liz of Weedville; and by her 8 beloved grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. She is also survived by one sister; Yolanda Corradi of Erie, and by numerous nieces and nephews.
In addition to her parents and her husband, Rose was preceded in death by her son; Gary R. Klein, who preceded her in death Nov. 2, 2023, by two brothers; James and William Gusmerotti, and by two sisters; Dolores Swanson and Helen Weis.
A Mass of Christian Burial for Rose A. Kline will be celebrated on Wednesday, December 6, 2023 at 10:00 AM at Queen of the World Church, 134 Queens Road, St. Marys, PA 15857 with Fr. Jeffery Noble, Pastor, as celebrant. Burial will follow in Parklawn Memorial Gardens.
Matthew Scott Leach, 44, of Russell, PA, died peacefully of natural causes, with his family by his side, on Saturday, December 2, 2023.
Matt was born November 30, 1979, in New Martinsville, WV. He was the son of Donald R. and Janet Rogerson Leach of New Martinsville, WV. He was a graduate of Magnolia High School in New Martinsville, WV, and he earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Chemical Engineering with a minor in Chemistry from West Virginia Institute of Technology, Montgomery WV.
Matthew was employed by Veolia Environmental Services as account manager working primarily at United Refinery Company in Warren, PA.
James C. “Jamie” Loy II, 43, a lifelong resident of Sweden Hill, passed away with his loving mother by his side on Friday, December 1, 2023, in Sena Kean Manor, Smethport, after a short illness.
Born on Friday, August 22, 1980 in Coudersport, he was a son of James C. Sr. and Patricia L. Boden Loy.
Jamie was a graduate of Coudersport High School. He was an avid reader who thoroughly enjoyed studying and researching many matters in which he was interested. He spent his entire life on Sweden Hill, greatly enjoying the outdoors. Along with his late father, he spent countless hours walking and enjoying nature on the family farm.
Matthew S. Leach, 44, of Russell, PA., died peacefully Saturday, December 2, 2023 with his family at his bedside.
Friends may call on Wednesday, December 6, 2023, from 4 to 7 P.M. at the Donald E. Lewis Funeral Home, Inc., 304 East Street, Warren, PA. A complete obituary will be announced on Tuesday.
Delores T. “Toots” Frey passed away peacefully at 88 ½ years old (she was very proud of the ½ of the year) Saturday, December 2, 2023 at Pinecrest Manor Nursing Home.
She was born May 3, 1935, in St. Marys, daughter of the late Leo and Agnes Krieg Samick. She was a lifelong resident of the area, formerly resided on South Michael Road, and was a graduate of St. Marys High School, Class of 1953. She was employed as an advertising sales representative for the Lake Shore Visitor and WKBI.
On September 15, 1956 in Queen of the World Church, she married Joseph R. Frey, who preceded her in death on January 28, 2015.
Michael D. Moscato, 52, of Emporium, PA passed away at Penn Highlands DuBois, DuBois, PA on Saturday (December 2, 2023).
He was born March 22, 1971 in Coudersport, PA a son of William Moscato, Emporium and the late Phyllis Agliardo Moscato.
Mike graduated from Cameron County High School. He worked for DiNardo Paving Company in Johnsonburg for many years and most recently he worked for the Emporium borough street crew. He was a member of the VFW, Moose and the Christabelle Clubs. He enjoyed his yearly trips to the Gettysburg battlefield, working on automobiles and animals.
Robert L. BOWMAN, 83, of Coudersport, PA, formerly of New Holland, passed away Friday, December 1, 2023, surrounded by his loving family at UPMC Cole following a valiant battle with cancer.
Born October 3, 1940, in New Holland, he was the son of Aaron R. and Edna M. Weaver Bowman. He is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Monica F. (Deller).
He was a devoted and loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who cared deeply for all his family. He was employed as a clerk for ten years and then a rural carrier for 25 years by the U.S. Postal Service in Lancaster County.
After retiring and relocating to Potter County, he delivered vehicles for Adelphia Communications throughout the country. Calling Potter County home for more than 25 years, Bob and Monica have been thoughtful stewards of “God’s Country” by maintaining roadsides and nature trails.
Bob was an active member of St. Eulalia Catholic Church, Coudersport, assisting in the kitchen, caring for church grounds as a “yard bird” and serving as a Eucharistic Minister for residents at a local nursing facility. He also compassionately served others by providing transportation for Potter County Human Services. In Lancaster County, he volunteered many years at Our Lady Of Lourdes Catholic Church and as a Scout Leader for the Boy Scouts of America.
SWEDEN HILL, PA—James C. “Jamie” Loy II, 43, a lifelong resident of Sweden Hill, passed away with his loving mother by his side on Friday, December 1, 2023, in Sena Kean Manor, Smethport, after a short illness.
Jamie’s mother entrusted his care and cremation arrangements to Kevin J. Dusenbury, funeral director/owner of the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse.
Michael S. PROCTOR, 57, of Galeton, PA, died Friday, December 1, 2023 in his daughter’s home in Coudersport.
Born July 5, 1966, in Coudersport, he was the son of Richard and Cindy Lou Huggler Proctor. A graduate of Galeton Area High School, he was employed by Patterson Lumber for many years. Mike was known for being a hard worker and a caring person. His family was his pride and joy. He loved being with family and friends.
Steven Eugene Cochran of Hopewell, Va. was promoted to heaven on Sunday, November 26, 2023 in his home with family around him.
Survivors include his wife, Sandra J. Cochran; his sons, Steven J. Cochran and Tony E. Cochran (Johnie); his daughters, Kera M. Kellogg and Anna J. Garst (Casey); his grandchildren, Natasha Cochran, Joseph Flahart, Madison Hoyt, Travion Cochran, Braedyn Gilormini and Haven Garst; his brothers, Thomas Cochran (Karen), Frederick Cochran (Tracy) and Joseph Cochran (Angela); and his sister, Jean Mealy (Clayton).
Steven was preceded in death by his brother, Duncan Cochran; parents Frederick Cochran (Mabel) and his adopted son, William Beason.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 3 p.m. on Saturday, January 6 at the VFW Post 637 Banquet room in Hopewell, Va and the Kelley Reunion.
Nancy L. Mckee, 81, of Warren, PA went home to be with the Lord, on Thursday, November 30, 2023, at the John and Orpha Blair Hospice House, Warren, PA.
She was born on April 21, 1942, in Coudersport, PA, the daughter of the late Harry Kellogg and Isabella (Arnold) Kellogg. Nancy had resided in Warren, PA since 1983 and lived in Sugar Grove, PA, before.
Nancy was raised by her aunt and uncle, Irvin “Bucky” and Cecil Chandler. She was a graduate of Youngsville High School, Class of 1960. Nancy was a graduate of Nursing from Jamestown Community College, and she received a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Fredonia.
Nancy was employed with Warren General Hospital, then with First American Healthcare as an administrator, and retired from Warren State Hospital in 2004.
July 25, 1936 – Nov. 28, 2023 JEFFERSON, IA — Dean G. Scalfaro, 87, recently of Grand Junction, IA, passed away on Tuesday, November 28, 2023, at the Greene County Medical Center in Jefferson, IA. A visitation was held Friday, December 1, 2023 at the Slininger-Schroeder Funeral Home in Jefferson, with a Celebration of Life planned for a later date.
Dean was born July 25, 1936 in Olean NY the son of Philip “Pat” and Beulah (Hatch) Scalfaro. Dean was influenced by and especially close to his grandfather Dominick “Grandpa Nick” Scalfaro and his grandmother Lena “Grandma Lena” Martin. All preceded him in passing.
He was a 1955 graduate of Otto Eldred High School, Eldred PA. Dean began working as a welder for Dresser Clark in Olean NY in 1956. He had a keen interest in utilizing his self-taught mechanical skills and expanding his career with Dresser and after several years was recruited by the Service Department to become an Erecting Superintendent, traveling both domestically and the world overseeing the installation of complex reciprocating engine compressors as well as centrifugal compressors and complimentary equipment. Dean was eventually promoted to lead the Franklin Park IL mid-west service office and went on to oversee service operations in Abu Dhabi and Philadelphia for the company. Dean was instrumental in developing the highly successful Contract Maintenance Group and retired from Dresser Rand, a joint venture formed by Dresser Clark and Ingersoll Rand, after 50+ dedicated years of service. Dean instilled his exemplary work ethic in all his children.
John H. Bixler, Jr., 84, of Emporium, PA passed away at Elk Haven Nursing Home, St. Marys, PA on Thursday evening (November 30, 2023).
He was born January 6, 1939 in St. Marys, PA a son of the late John H. and Dorothy McDonald Bixler.
John graduated from Cameron County High School. He served in the US Army during Vietnam. After serving in the Army he graduated from Indiana State Teachers College in Indiana, PA where he earned a teaching degree. He went on to teach music at Union School District in Rimersburg for over 30 years. Years ago he enjoyed playing tennis, baseball and target shooting as he was a sharpshooter. He liked animals, especially his cats and dogs.
John G. Fedorko, 90, a resident of Silver Creek Terrace and formerly of 128 Laurel Lane, Kersey, PA passed away unexpectedly Wednesday, November 29, 2023 at Penn Highlands Elk.
He was born February 5, 1933 in Johnsonburg, son of the late Stephan and Anna Paralic Fedorko. He was a lifelong resident of the area and a graduate of Johnsonburg High School, Class of 1950.
On October 5, 1957 in St. Mary’s Catholic Church, John married Doris C. Dippold, who preceded him in death on July 15, 1997.
Dora Rae Hottel Berardi, 80, of Warren, PA., died suddenly on Wednesday, November 30, 2023.
She was born at home in North Warren, PA., on February 9, 1943. She was the daughter of Garrett Sager and Laura Iva Blandin Hottel, Sr.
Dora was a lifelong N. Warren and Warren area resident. She was a 1961 graduate of Warren High School. Dora was employed with the Warren State Hospital Dietary Department and retired in May of 2007 from Blair Corporation, after 15 years of service. Dora loved being a wife, mother, and grandmother.
Clifton L. “Skip” Lunn, 79, of Route 417, Allegany, NY passed away on Thursday, November 30, 2023, shortly after arrival at Olean General Hospital.
Skip was born on March 17, 1944, in Hinsdale and was the son of Clifton J. and Carolyn Sherwood Lunn. On February 23, 1964, he married his loving wife of almost 60 years, Dorothy I. Austin, who survives.
Skip was a 1964 graduate of Port Allegany High School. He worked for Dresser Rand as a Pipefitter where he retired from in 2006 after 41 years of service. Skip was a member of the local 4601. He enjoyed scroll sawing, hunting, and fishing.
M. Myrtle KEAR, 83, of Whitesville, NY, died Thursday, November 30, 2023 in Jones Memorial Hospital, Wellsville.
Born February 6, 1940, in Willing, she was the daughter of Claude L. and Martha Teater Payne. On February 12, 1955, in Wayland, she married Bruce D. Kear, who survives.
She attended Whitesville Central School and went on to St. James Hospital School of Nursing. She was employed as an LPN by Highland Park Nursing Home and Jones Memorial Hospital.
Myrtle was a member of Whitesville Firemen’s Auxiliary and a founding member of the Independence Rescue Squad.
Marie A. Clayson, 75, of 338 Yankee Hill Road, Ischua, NY passed away Thursday, November 30, 2023 at Olean General Hospital after a lengthy illness.
Born on September 13, 1948, in Olean, she was a daughter of Reid and Mazie Adams Levia. On July 8, 1989, in Cuba, she married Lanny Clayson who survives.
Marie attended Olean Schools. She had worked for Crown-y Recycling for ten years and then went to work for Wilcare as a home health aide, a job she truly enjoyed.
She loved spending time with her family, grandchildren and friends showering them with love. On Monday nights she could be found playing bingo in Ischua and at home she found joy in gardening and watching wildlife from the front porch. The last few years she helped care for her mother-in-law with her husband.
In addition to her husband, she is survived by
Her Children: Dan Bishop, serving as a missionary in Budapest, Hungary; Hiram (Amy) Clayson, Arcade, Heidi Clayson, Cuba.
Her grandchildren: Bobby (Nicole), Heather (Justin), Amber (Chris), Haley, JT, Alyah, and Ayden, and many great-grandchildren.
2 Brothers: Robert Levia, Binghamton; Chuck (Caroline) Levia, Olean.
2 Sisters: Billie Jean (Bob) Levia-Perini, Phoenix, Arizona; Marilyn Levia, Willis, Texas
Son-in-law: Don Vanetten, Portville
Several Nieces and Nephews
In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by a son Robert Bishop, Jr., a daughter Christine VanEtten, and a daughter-in-law Stephanie Bishop.
Friends may call at the Mark F. Rinker Funeral Home & Memorial Service, Inc., 9 Bull Street Cuba, on Monday, December 4, 2023 from 5-7 P.M. at which time a Memorial Service will be held. The Rev. Rebecca Worth will officiate.
Marie will be laid to rest at the Carpenter Hill Road Cemetery, Town of Ischua this coming Spring.
Dennis J. Bechtel, 70, of Two Mile Rd., Port Allegany, PA passed away Wednesday (Nov. 29, 2023) in Olean General Hospital.
Born November 20, 1953, in Phoenixville, PA, he was a son of Donald and Evelyn Detweiler Bechtel. On June 2, 1979, in Port Allegany, he married Patricia J. Blackman, who survives. They were married 44 years.
Dennis was a longtime resident of the area and a graduate of Perkiomen High School, Collegeville, PA.
He was employed with Ardaugh Glass Packaging of Port Allegany, retiring in 2016, after 29 years of service. He most recently worked as a bus driver for Muccio of Port Allegany.
Earl Dean Tompkins, age 76 of Knoxville, PA passed away on November 25, 2023 at the Albany Medical Center in Albany, NY.
He was born in Pennsylvania on January 12, 1947 and was a son to the late Vern and Elna (Perry) Tompkins.
Dean enjoyed everything to do with the outdoors. He loved hunting, vegetable gardening, taking care of his property and mowing the lawn. Dean was always ‘running the road’, driving up and down the valley whenever he could. He was a proud Army veteran, serving 2 years and going overseas to Vietnam.
He was a member of the Knoxville VFW Post 6753 and Knoxville-Deerfield Fire Department.
Lois J. Ostrom, 81, formerly of Sartwell Creek Rd., Port Allegany, PA passed away Monday (Nov. 27, 2023) in UPMC Susquehanna, Williamsport.
Born February 16, 1942, in Coudersport, she was a daughter of Torrence and Elizabeth Hochstine Davis. In April 1970, in Port Allegany, she married Robert H. Ostrom, who died Nov. 11, 2017.
She was a lifetime resident of the area and a graduate of Port Allegany High School, class of 1961.
Lois started working right out of high school at Galeton Production, Galeton, and most recently Pure Carbon of Coudersport, for many years, before her retirement.
Working alongside of her husband Robert, they built their family business, Pennsylvania Flagstone located in Roulette. They worked very hard and sacrificed everything for it to become a very successful business that they were both proud of.