Alton Everett Hollebeke Jr. (79), better known as “Buddy” or “Bud”, is now resting after a hard fight against a cancer diagnosis. He was at home, surrounded by his loving family when God called him home on October 12, 2024.
Born in El Paso, Texas, on April 7, 1945, Buddy was the first-born son to Alton E. Hollebeke Sr. and Florence Margaret (Gilmore) Hollebeke. True grit was ingrained in him from the beginning, as he was raised at Hollebeke Stables, the family horse ranch in El Paso, TX.
He graduated with the class of 1963 from Ysleta High School. He grew up doing things only a cowboy would do…things like arrowhead hunting and catching rattlesnakes in the desert, coyote and jackrabbit hunting, rodeos, and driving fast cars.
Thanks to his baby sister Bussie arranging a get-together, Buddy met Sharon Lee (Alviti) Hollebeke in 1978. Little did he know, that day he was introduced to his soulmate, his light, and love of his life. Soon enough, he was calling her “Sugar”, and became her husband on November 17, 1979 in Kermit, TX.
Mary Kathryn “Kathy” Farrell, 83, of St. Marys, PA passed away peacefully on Monday, October 14, 2024.
Kathy was born July 19, 1941, in Norfolk, VA, daughter of the late George and Bernadette Kosco. Her father was a Captain in the Navy and part of her childhood was spent in Alaska which prepared her for the western PA winters. She was a graduate of Maryknoll High School in Hawaii, Class of 1958 and continued her studies at Rosemont College where she met many of her lifelong friends who she graduated with in 1962.
Clarence P. Cook, 88, of Kane passed away on September 18, 2024 at UPMC Cole.
Born on November 8, 1936 in James City, Pa. he was the son of Melvin James Cook and Jennie Elizabeth Confer. On May 21, 1956 he married Irene Marie Roush, where they had many children together; Marlene, Janet, Jane, Joe Sr., and William. Irene Marie Roush preceded him in death on December 5, 1996. He then remarried Ida Sidelinger on July 19, 2005 and she preceded him in death on December 03, 2021.
Gerald E. Blumer age 93 of Brownsville TX, formerly of Coudersport Pa passed away October 16, 2024.
He was married to the former Katherine Eleanor Walter and on October 24th, they would have celebrated 70 years of marriage.
Gerald is survived by his wife Katherine, 2 sons David (Janice) Blumer of Bakersfield CA and Jon (Jana) Blumer of Coudersport PA, 4 Grandchildren Haakon, Calli, Hunter and Skyler Blumer, and 5 great-grandchildren.
In keeping with Geralds wishes, there will be no services.
Edwin H. “Ed” Fichtner, 88, of Webster, a former longtime resident of Eldred, passed away on Wednesday, October 16, 2024, in the James A. Haley Veterans’ Hospital, Tampa.
Born on Friday, September 18, 1936 in Salamanca, NY, he was a son of Charles M. and Violet M. Lamberson Fichtner.
During his grade school years, Ed resided in Turtlepoint. He entered the US Air Force at the age of 18 and honorably served his country. After discharge from active duty, he served in the Army Reserves.
Steven P. Hathaway “beloved companion, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend”
Steven P. “Steve” Hathaway, 75, a longtime resident of Shinglehouse, passed away in his home with his loving family by his side on Thursday, October 17, 2024, after a courageous battle with cancer.
Born on Friday, January 7, 1949 in Olean, NY, he was a son of Alfred L. and Theo Schoonover Hathaway. He was the beloved companion of Linda Clayton.
Sandra “Sandy” Reese, 78, of 14 Cornen Street, passed away Tuesday, October 15, 2024, at Bradford Ecumenical Home.
Born September 29, 1946, in Bradford, she was a daughter of the late Domenic and Mildred Barrile. Sandy was a 1964 graduate of Limestone High School.
On March 1, 1992, she married Charles E. Reese at Hill Memorial United Methodist Church, he preceded her in death on February 10, 2016.
Sandy was employed at and retired from The Pavilion @ BRMC. She was a member of Grace Lutheran Church. Sandy was strong in her faith and loved flea markets and being with her family.
Surviving are two sons, Jim (Sean) Fetterman of Farmington, MN, Jeff Fetterman of Bradford, one daughter, Jenni (Dave Hart) Fetterman of Asheville, NC, one sister, Melissa Dixon of Limestone, NY and one brother, Michael Barrile of Sheboygan, WI, two grandchildren, Devyn Hart (Roman Alvarado) and Jeffery Fetterman (Caitlin Williams), and eight great grandchildren.
She is preceded in death by her parents, husband, and one granddaughter Kelsi Hart.
Private graveside services will be held for the family at Willow Dale Cemetery with Rev. Barry J. Keurulainen, Interim Pastor of Grace Lutheran Church, officiating.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes Inc.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Grace Lutheran Church of Bradford.
Elaine Janette Blowers of Painted Post, New York entered into the joy of her Lord on Sunday, October 13, 2024. Elaine was born on June 27, 1935, to Everette and Evelyn (Janousky) Blowers in Sharpsville, Pennsylvania.
Elaine graduated from Wellsboro High School in 1953, completed her bachelor’s degree from Mansfield State Teachers College in 1959, and did postgraduate work in Library Sciences. She taught high school English and worked in the library at Addison Central High School for thirty-plus years. Following retirement, she also taught English-second language for Corning Incorporated and taught Bible and English classes at Wesley Academy in Elkland, Pennsylvania. Elaine was an avid tennis player and skier and could be often seen taking daily walks around her neighborhood. Tending to her home, lawn, and beautiful flower gardens were her chief joys and gave her great satisfaction, bringing beauty to the neighborhood and sharing her special sunshine with everyone.
Torben A. Martin, of Coudersport, passed away at birth, Friday, October 11, 2024, at UPMC-Cole, Coudersport.
He was the son of Aaron M. Martin and Jessica L. (Gentzler) Ruppert. Torben is survived by his paternal grandparents, Timothy and Kathy Martin of Coudersport; maternal grandparents, Michael Garrett and Shelia Gentzler of York; brothers: Kenneth Ruppert IV, Riley Ruppert, Peyton Ruppert, Ryder Reimold, and Wyatt Martin, and sisters, Shaylynn Ruppert and Astrid Martin.
Torben was preceded in death by a brother, Jaydyn Reimold.The family has entrusted Torben’s care with the Thomas E. Fickinger Funeral Home, 210 N. East St., Coudersport, PA 16915.
Julian F. “Bud” Asti, 82, of 120 Edward Road, St. Marys, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, Sunday, October 13, 2024 at Elk Haven Nursing Home. Bud was born at home in Johnsonburg on July 27, 1942.
He was the son of the late Anthony “Tony” and Mildred Aiello Asti. He was a lifelong resident of the area, attended Johnsonburg schools. Following high school, Bud started working at Pure Carbon until he furthered his education at the Educational Institute of Pittsburgh, where he earned his diploma in Design and Engineering Drafting.
Toby Bernard Lent, a cherished person known for his kind, loving, caring and vibrant personality, left us on October 7, 2024. Born on January 21, 1971, Toby lived a life of tremendous passion and service towards others. Toby was 53.
Lois E. BALCOM, 82, of Wellsville, NY, died Thursday, October 10, 2024 in her home.
Born April 27, 1942, in Dansville, she was the daughter of Ruth I. George. On September 26, 1959, in Scottsburg, she married James E. Balcom, who predeceased her on August 16, 2003. She was employed as an office manager by various companies through the years. She enjoyed sewing, crocheting, spending time with her family, and vacationing when she could. She had a deep love for her pets.
Alan LITTELL, novelist and travel journalist, dies at age 95.
Alan LITTELL, a Western New York author and journalist best known for his evocative articles on travel that appeared widely in newspapers and magazines in this country and in Europe, died October 13, 2024 at Hart Comfort House, in Wellsville, N.Y. He spent his last days surrounded by family and friends. He was 95 years old and lived in Alfred, N.Y.
The cause was a stroke, his family said.
For more than 40 years Mr. Littell, writing as a freelance, reported on travel for publications ranging from The New York Times and Travel & Leisure Magazine to The Athens (Greece) News. He contributed articles on voyaging and nautical history to Ocean Navigator, a national yachting publication.
In Western New York his work appeared regularly in The Buffalo News, The Rochester Democrat and Chronicle and The Olean Times Herald, and for 10 years he served as travel editor of The Hornell Sunday Spectator.
Julian F. “Bud” Asti, 82, of Edward Road, St. Marys, passed away peacefully Sunday, October 13, 2024 at Elk Haven Nursing Home. Funeral arrangements are incomplete and under the direction of Lynch-Radkowski Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc.
Janet M. Buck, 76, of Montoursville, passed away Friday, October 11, 2024, at The Williamsport Home in Williamsport. She was born April 23, 1948, in Wellsboro to John and Betty (Barnhart) Winters. She was married to the love of her life, Edward A. Buck, for 59 years. Janet was a daughter, a sister, an aunt, and a friend to many, but her most cherished titles were Wife and Mother.
Carole R. (Howarth) Miller, 86, of Little Marsh, passed away October 11, 2024 at UPMC Cole in Coudersport, PA. She was born August 5, 1938, in Philadelphia to James and Gladys (Specketer) Howarth. On November 28, 1969, she married Russell A. Miller with whom she shared nearly 55 years of marriage.
Linda B. Neal, age 71, of Little Marsh, PA, died on Wednesday, October 9, 2024.
She was born on March 10, 1953 in Baltimore, MD, a daughter of the late James and Ruby (Quailes) Brooks and was married to George E. Neal. Linda was formerly employed by Patterson Farms as the office manager for 30+ years.
Olean- Rodney R. “Rod” Edwards “Loving Brother, Uncle, & Friend”
Rodney R. Edwards of South 2nd Street Olean, formerly of Cuba and Belfast, passed away on Wednesday, October 9, 2024, at home following a brief battle with Pancreatic Cancer.
Rod was born on November 11, 1965, in Cuba and was the son of Richard H. and Beverly Mills Edwards.
James J. Macfarlane, 62, of Rew, passed away Wednesday, October 9, 2024, at his home, with his wife Sandy by his side.
Born April 23, 1962, in Bradford, he was a son of the late Robert M. and Olga M. (Pelino) and Macfarlane, Sr.
Jim was a 1980 graduate of Bradford Central Christian High School. He later earned an Associate’s Degree in Petroleum Engineering Technology in 1982, and a Bachelor of Science degree in 1985 in Petroleum Geology both from the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford.
Catherine M. Cuneo, 76, of Buffalo and formerly of Hemlock Road, St. Marys, passed away Wednesday, October 2, 2024 at Mercy Hospital in Buffalo.
She was born April 21, 1948 in St. Marys, daughter of the late Victor E. and Mary Margaret Henkel Marconi. Cathy was a lifelong resident of the area and was a retired office manager for PennDOT.
On August 14, 1976 in the Sacred Heart Church, Cathy married the late Charles J. Cuneo, who preceded her in death on July 21, 2013.
Bruce E. DeWalt, 69, of Bradford and winter resident of Kissimmee, FL passed away Wednesday, July 31, 2024, at his home surrounded by family.
Born February 26, 1955, in Spring Valley, IL, he was a son of the late Merlin and Dorothy (Landers) DeWalt. His family relocated to Phoenix AZ when Bruce was very young. He attended schools in Arizona.
Sherry M. Davidson, 67, of Curtis Rd. in Ludlow, passed away Thursday (Oct. 3) at UPMC-Hamot. Born May 23, 1957 in Kane, she is the daughter of the late Gerald and Ruth (Beane) Holmes. On Sept. 3, 1977 in Kane she married Daniel Davidson, who preceded her in death.
Sherry had worked in home health care. She had several nieces, nephews,grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and she loved each and every one of them. She had a heart of gold and would do anything for anyone. She would always put others needs before her own.
Jay B. Alexander, 67, of 433 High Street, Bradford, passed away Tuesday, October 8, 2024, at Bradford Regional Medical Center.
Born on April 19, 1957, in Bradford, he was a son of the late Gerald M. and Gwendolyn L. (Thrush) Alexander. He was a 1975 graduate from Bradford High.
On August 29, 1992, in Bradford, he married Wendy M. (Tyger) Alexander, who survives.
Jay worked for Lloyd-Smith, drilling water wells for 37 years. He worked in the oil industry for Cline Oil and Philips & Dart and was employed as a custodian at Bradford Area School District working at Fretz Middle School.
He was an avid Steelers fan, loved to hunt, fish, camp, dig leeks, watch Mash and Gunsmoke, and spend time with his dog Jasmine.
In addition to his wife of 32 years, he is survived by three children, Jocylen (Michael) Bombasay of Bradford, Jason (Katie) Alexander of Bradford, and Justin (Jenn) Alexander of Hawaii, four grandchildren, Joey Alexander, Hadley Alexander, Isaac Alexander, Johnny Alexander, two sisters, Jayne (Tate) Ingram of Dawsonville GA, Jan S Alexander of Dawsonville GA, three brothers, Gerald (Deanna) Alexander Jr. of Erie, Jack (Denise) S. Alexander of Olean, NY, Jim (Mary) Alexander, of Savannah GA.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
There will be a Celebration of Life held in the summer of 2025 that will be announced at a later date.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes, Inc.
Memorial contributions, if desired, may be made to McKean County SPCA, PO Box 113, Bradford PA 16701, or a charity of the donor’s choice.
James J. Macfarlane, 62, of Rew, passed away Wednesday, October 9, 2024, at his home, with his wife Sandy by his side.
Born April 23, 1962, in Bradford, he was a son of the late Robert M. and Olga M. (Pelino) and Macfarlane, Sr.
Jim was a 1980 graduate of Bradford Central Christian High School. He later earned an Associate’s Degree in Petroleum Engineering Technology in 1982, and a Bachelor of Science degree in 1985 in Petroleum Geology both from the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford.
On November 9, 1985, in Elmira, NY, he married Sandra Jean (Curren) Macfarlane who survives.
Julius J. “Butch” Hepner, age 87, of Russell, PA (formerly of Fairport Harbor, Ohio), died peacefully on Monday, October 7, 2024, at his home in Russell, PA.He was born on May 26, 1937, in Cleveland, Ohio, son of the late Julius and Magdalene (Hartman) Hepner.
At the age of 10, his family moved to Fairport Harbor, Ohio where he resided until 2021 when he moved to Russell, PA to be near his daughter.
Marilyn I. “Molly” Malone: Loving Mother, Grandmother, Sister
Marilyn I. “Molly” Malone, 88 of 9400 Laidlaw Rd, Franklinville, and formerly of Hinsdale, passed away Wednesday, October 09, 2024 at Olean General Hospital after a short illness
Born on November 21, 1935, in Farmersville, New York she was a daughter of Jay and Ethelyn (Chamberlain) Brown. In 1958, she married John P. Malone who predeceased her on February 26, 2024.
Marilyn was a graduate of Hinsdale Central School Class of 1954 and three years later graduate as a Registered Nurse from the Buffalo School of Nursing.
She began her nursing career at Cuba Memorial Hospital before going to work at Olean General Hospital from where she retired after 30 years.
When her children were young, she was an active Girl Scout Leader and horse show mom always looking forward to when her girls would show horses at the Cattaraugus County Fair. At home she enjoyed gardening, watching the wildlife, baking, and raising cats and dogs throughout the years.
Beverly Joan Retzer, 92, formerly of South Avenue and Congress Street Apartments, Bradford, passed away Saturday, October 5, 2024, at the Bradford Ecumenical Home.
Born April 24, 1932, in Buffalo, NY, she was the daughter of the late Horace W. and Bernice Elvira (Davis) Mines.
She graduated from Wilcox High School in 1950 and was a graduate of Jamestown Business College as a Medical Secretary. She worked for Samuel A. Dispenza, M.D. in Jamestown. Later, she worked at the Child Guidance Clinic, Social Services, and Cerebral Palsy Clinic at Children’s Hospital in Buffalo, NY. Beverly retired in 1993 after working 23 years as secretary to Widad E. Bazzoui, M.D., Medical Director of the Guidance Center.
On April 4, 1953, in the Presbyterian Church in Wilcox with Rev. T. Lambert officiating, she married Ernest N. Retzer who preceded her in death on November 19, 2014.