Jay E. Wolfer, 61, of 8468 Glen Rd., Rushford, NY passed away Thursday, May 2, 2024 at home.
Born on July 4, 1962, in Springville, he was a son of Junior Edward and Geraldine Frances Obrachta Wolfer. On October 20, 1991, in Rushford, he married the former Audrey A. Pomeroy who survives.
Jay was raised on a farm and enjoyed doing farm work when he was younger. Later he worked as a tree trimmer for several area businesses, but then owned and operated his own business Wolfer’s Tree Service until his retirement.
Smethport – Ronald E. Appleby, 78, of Port Allegany, PA passed away Thursday (May 2, 2024) at Lakeview Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center, Smethport.
Arrangements will be announced by the Hartle-Tarbox Funeral Homes, Inc., Smethport.
Mary E. “Missy” Shirey, 64, of Evergreen Drive, Ridgway, PA died on Wednesday, May 1, 2024, at Allegheny General Hospital after a lengthy illness.
She was born on June 10, 1959, the daughter of the late Paul and Audrey Bradley Shirey.
Missy was Christian by faith, attending St. Leos Church and Trinity United Methodist Church. She graduated from Ridgway High School Class of 1977 and attended Edinboro University. Missy led a life filled with love, compassion, and dedication to her family and community. She touched the lives of many through her work and numerous contributions. Missy worked for many years at Dickenson Center, New Light, and Community Links.
In addition to her family, Missy was deeply involved in various community organizations. She served on the CAPSEA Board of Directors, where she worked to support and advocate for those in need. She was also a past Board member of the Ridgway Ambulance and served as an Assistant Manager of the Elk County/ Cameron County Special Olympics, demonstrating her commitment to helping others and making a difference in the world. She had a passion for baking and was known for making the best cakes with her secret peanut butter frosting.
Betty Lou Mack, age 79, of Middlebury Center, PA passed away on Saturday, April 27, 2024.
Born September 17, 1944 in Potter Brook, she was the daughter of the late Leroy K. and Vivian C. (Clark) Stermer.
Betty obtained her Masters Degree in Education from Mansfield University. She married Richard P. Mack and they shared 26 years together until his passing in November 1996.
Betty was a long time member of the DAR, Delegate to United Methodist Conference and a member of the Keeneyville United Methodist Church. She liked reading, word games, square dancing, playing dominoes, making jams and jellies, bird watching, gardening and tending to her house plants. She enjoyed going to church, traveling, helping people, raising her children and spending time with family.
Cora E. Flynn, age 72, of Elkland, PA passed away on Friday, April 26, 2024 at Robert Packer Hospital in Sayre. Born July 20, 1951 in Sabinsville, she was the daughter of the late Archie and Evelyn (Carmen) Moon. Cora married Marvin G. Flynn, Sr. and they shared 52 years together.
She worked for the Osceola Big M for many years, was a member of the TOPS and the Cowanesque Valley Rod and Gun Club. Cora loved playing cards, poker and Bingo. She enjoyed fishing and being a grandmother.
Larry S. JAMES, 74, of Andrews Settlement, PA, died Wednesday, May 1, 2024 in his home.
Born July 18, 1949, in Coudersport, he was the son of Truman H. and Corrine E. Chilson James. On November 27, 1982, in Ulysses, he married Gina M. Calcote, who survives.
A 1967 graduate of Northern Potter High School, he was employed by CNG / Dominion for 35 years. Larry was a member of Potter County Anglers Club.
Lukas A. “Luke” Slosser, 23, passed away on Monday, April 29, 2024, in Sigel, PA.
He was born on September 9, 2000 in Clarion, PA, the son of Paul and Judith Atwell Slosser.
Luke attended Venango Regional Vo-Tech in Oil City and was employed as an Operations Engineer for Catalyst Energy. He had a passion for all things mechanical, a true gear-head who loved Dodge Cummins diesel trucks, and never passing up the chance to buy and fix up a truck.
An avid outdoorsman, Luke could often be found hunting and fishing. With a great love for motocross, Luke always reveled in the thrill of riding dirt bikes and spending the day with friends on the track. Luke also found solace on the farm, nurturing a special bond with animals and spending time there with his parents.
A devoted father, Luke cherished his son, Lane, who was his pride and joy. His bond with his family was unwavering and filled with love. Luke’s loyalty extended to his faithful companion, his dog Ellie, who shared in his adventures and provided him with endless joy. Luke always cheered on the underdog, had the biggest heart, and was a friend to all. He will be dearly missed by all who knew him.
In addition to his loving parents, Paul and Judy Slosser, he is survived by his beloved son; Lane Slosser, and by his maternal grandmother; Dorothy Campbell Atwell of Reading, MA. He is also survived by two aunts; Susan (Ronnie) Colburne and Linda (Bruce) Goodwin, both of North Reading, MA, and by two uncles; Robert (Patty) Slosser and David Slosser, both of Bessemer, PA, as well as by numerous cousins and good friends.
Luke was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents; Robert and Phylis Snyder Slosser and by his maternal grandfather; Richard Atwell. A Memorial Service for Lukas A. Slosser is being planned and will be announced at a later date.
Lynch-Green Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 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
Shirley J. McGonnell, 89, of 25 Mark Street, St. Marys, PA passed away Thursday, May 2, 2024, at Penn Highlands Elk Hospital.
She was born May 26, 1934 in Willimantic, CT to the late Carl and Margaret Anderson Warren. She was a graduate of Indiana High School, Class of 1951 and continued her education graduating from Indiana State Teacher’s College Class, of 1955. She started her teaching career in Port Allegany in 1955 and continued teaching for over 35 years. With the majority spent teaching kindergarten and 2nd grade at South St. Marys Street Elementary, she continued to volunteer there for many years after her retirement.
Shirley married the love of her life, the late James A. McGonnell on June 1, 1957 in St. Gabriel’s Church in Port Allegheny. Jim and Shirley were married for over 62 years. Jim preceded her in death on June 17, 2019.
Joseph P. “Moe” Cardoni, 87, of 3377 Long Level Rd., Johnsonburg, PA passed away peacefully with his family by his side, late Tuesday evening, April 30, 2024, at his residence following a lengthy illness.
He was born in Johnsonburg on March 13, 1937, a son to the late Nicholas and Mary Cherry Cardoni. He married Evelyn Mannella, she passed January 5, 1968. On September 26, 1970, in Holy Rosary Church he married Dorothy E. “Dot” Kennedy. She passed October 6, 2021.
A lifelong resident of Johnsonburg, Moe attended Johnsonburg High School. He was a member of Holy Rosary Church and the Prince of Piedmont Club. Moe loved to be around his family and enjoyed his Sunday dinners. He was an avid gardener, canner and loved to cook. He also loved to go fishing and hunting.
A Veteran of the US Air Force, Moe served as an Airman First Class, aircraft mechanic, with 393rdBomb Squadron from 1954 to 1958.
In 1998, Moe retired from Carbon Graphite in St. Marys after over 50 years of service. After retirement, he worked for several years at the St. Marys WalMart.
Rev. Peter A. DeVantier, age 82, of Wellsboro, PA, died on Tuesday, April 30, 2024. He was born on January 1, 1942 in Sanborn, NY a son of the late Alfred and Martha (Williams) DeVantier and was married to the late Judith A. (Simson) DeVantier for 60 years.
He attended St. James Lutheran Elementary School, Betgholz, NY, and Starpoint Central High School, Lockport, NY. Pete graduated from Buffalo State College with a Master of Education Degree.
He was an art teacher for 23 years at the North Tonawanda High School. After he retired from teaching, he received his Master of Divinity Degree from Concordia Seminary. He was the pastor of the Trinity Lutheran Church, Wellsboro, PA for 27 years.
Pete was a member of the Wellsboro Lions Club, the Wellsboro Men’s Chorus and was the Chaplain for the Wellsboro Fire Department for many years. He was an avid gardener, artist and birdwatcher.
Pastor Pete is survived by a son: Brian (Phil Ammons) DeVantier of CT, daughters: Kim (Kerry) Taylor of North Tonawanda, NY, Heather (David) Benedict of Wellsboro, PA, Jennifer Pinto of Westchester, NY, brother: Fredric (Pam) DeVantier of Sanborn, NY, sister-in-law: Jacqueline Rollison of Lancaster, NY, 13 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren.
A viewing will be held on Saturday, May 4, 2024 from 9 to 11 am at the Trinity Lutheran Church, Wellsboro, PA. A funeral service will follow at 11:00 am with Pastor Joseph Weatherell and Pastor Barry Keurulainen officiating. Interment will be in the Shumway Hill Cemetery, Wellsboro, PA.
Memorial donations may be made to the Trinity Lutheran School, 53 West Ave., Wellsboro, PA 16901. Arrangements are entrusted to the Carleton Funeral Home, Inc. www.carletonfh.com Wellsboro, PA
Smethport – Eleanor Mary Montgomery, 78, of Smethport, PA passed away Saturday (February 10, 2024) at Sena Kean Manor, Smethport.
A memorial service will be held on May 4, 2024 at 11AM in the Trinity Lutheran Church of Smethport. Burial with graveside committal will be in Bells Run Cemetery, Shinglehouse.
Arrangements were under the direction of the Hartle-Tarbox Funeral Homes, Inc., Smethport.
Richard K. Michuck, affectionately known as Rat, of 34 Carr Lane, St. Marys, PA passed away at the age of 69, following a lengthy illness Tuesday, April 30, 2024 at Penn Highlands DuBois with his children by his side.
He was born June 13, 1954, son of Jean Weidow Wise and the late Joseph Michuck, II. He was a lifelong resident of the area, attended St. Marys schools, retired from Powder Metal Products, and was a committed member of the Crystal Fire Department for 30 years, where he was a deputy fire chief for some of those years.
Louise E. MERRELL, 65, of Cuba, NY, went to be with the Lord on Tuesday, April 30, 2024 in her home.
Born December 28, 1958, in Cuba, she was the daughter of Roswell H. and Ethel Mae Sprague Gowdy. On September 25, 1982, in Avon, she married George W. Merrell, who survives.
A graduate of Belmont Central School, she was a stay-at-home mother. Her children and grandchildren were her world and she loved spending every minute she could with them. Louise enjoyed walking and spending time outside, and loved roosters.
Thomas R. Miller, Jr., 73, of 187 West Washington Street, Bradford, passed away Monday, April 29, 2024, at UPMC Hamot.
Born October 30, 1950, in Buffalo, he was a son of the late Thomas “Dick” Miller Sr. and Laura V. (Iverson) Miller. He moved to Bradford with his mother and brother in 1960. He was a 1969 graduate from Bradford High School.
In his younger years, Tommy was active in the Special Olympics, excelling in bowling, swimming, and softball. Tommy moved into residential housing through Evergreen Elm in April of 1987. For the past couple of decades, he was a member of the Kiwanis Aktion Club, where he was involved in various service projects.
Paul M. Perri, avid outdoorsman and life-long resident of Warren, PA., died unexpectedly on Tuesday, April 30, 2024, at the age of 63. Paul was born August 9, 1960, to Frank and Nancy Schultz Perri. He graduated from Warren Area High School in 1978 and joined the U.S. Marine Corps. He worked as a contractor building and remodeling houses, prior to retiring.
Tia L. Dyne, 33, of Yarnell St., Kane, PA passed away Friday, April 26, 2024, at UPMC-Kane. Born Sept. 27, 1990, in St. Marys, she is the daughter of Timothy (Emily) Dyne and Shelly (Joe Ferranto) Dyne.
Tia was the epitome of fun-loving, the life of every gathering, and the heartbeat of countless joyful moments. Her infectious laughter and energy lit up every room she entered, making her a cherished friend to so many. Tia had an impact on everyone she encountered. She had the biggest heart and always put others first. She had a unique ability to make others feel seen and loved, even amidst her own struggles.
She enjoyed spending time with her family and oftentimes was the glue that held them together. A true nurturer at heart, Tia was devoted to all her nieces and nephews, as well as her younger sister and brother. She showered them with love and affection and left them with many cherished memories.
In addition to the people in her life, Tia cherished her dogs. She had an immense love for animals and dedicated much time to rescuing and nurturing them.
Duane H. Baumgarner, 73, of Skinner Creek Rd., Port Allegany, PA passed away Saturday, April 27, 2024, in his home, surrounded by his family.
Born June 28, 1950, in Coudersport, he was a son of David C. and Ava D. Lucas Baumgarner. On Oct. 2, 1968, in Rochester, NY, he married Rebecca J. VanSickle, who survives. They were married 55 years.
Duane was a lifetime resident of the area and a graduate of Port Allegany High School, class of 1968, and later from the Dubois Business College.
Duane worked in Port Allegany at the Port Allegany Community Hospital from 1975 to 1983 as controller. In 1983 he was vice president of PA Hospital Systems where he was responsible for developing computerized hospital financial systems. He was a member of the PAHS School Board in the 80s until his move to S. Carolina where he took a position as Financial Coordinator at Baptist Medical Center, a 350 bed Hospital in the capitol city of Columbia. He worked there from 1987 to 1998 while also running his own company Provision Healthcare Systems, where he designed and programmed SBS physician billing and collection system. From 1998 until 2002 he owned Reimbursement Software Systems Inc and worked with American Claims Expeditors as a Medicare reimbursement consultant.
He was a member of the Free Methodist Church of Port Allegany, where he always taught Sunday school. He was passionate about his faith and loved his Lord. He enjoyed witnessing and scientific/theological debating.
Music was an important part of his life where he enjoyed playing drums in a band, The Changing Times, the trombone, trumpet, and the harmonica. He loved his family above all else and was a devoted husband arguably the best father and friend ever.
Loving mother, Grandmother (affectionately called Getti), Life Partner, sister, and friend.
Born in Olean New York on January 25, 1955 at St. Francis Hospital to parents George Nelson Shields and Geneva Shields.
Pamela was born and raised in Eldred, Pa. She was an LPN for 40+ years. She worked at the Medical Group in Olean, NY, Charles Cole Medical Group in Eldred, PA and The Bradford Pavilion.
Thelma R. SMITH, 73, of Westfield, PA, died Thursday, April 25, 2024 in her home.
A gathering to celebrate Thelma’s life will be held Thursday, May 2, 2024 at Moon’s Big Red Barn, 453 Rowley Road, Ulysses, PA from 1:00 – 4:00 PM, with a service at 1:30 PM.
Gordon Claude GRAVES, 85, of Mechanicsburg, PA, formerly of Ulysses, PA died Sunday, April 28, 2024 at his daughter’s home. Born May 5,1938 in Whitesville, NY, he was the son of Clayton Lowell and Madge Fillmore Graves. He attended Harrison Valley School and Northern Potter High School. On December 31, 1957, in the Ulysses Free Methodist Church, he married Charlotte M. Moore, who predeceased him in September, 22, 2020.
Gordon spent most of his younger years working with his family on the farm and driving truck. For several years he operated Gordon Graves Trucking which involved a lot of feed hauling for Agway out of Buffalo. In his later years, he worked driving for Smith’s Transfer and Fed Ex Custom Critical which took him and Charlotte all over the country. In his final years, he enjoyed driving school bus and school van for Miller and Sons. He loved bribing all of the kids on his bus with candy to keep them occupied.
Judith Ann “Judy” BRAYMILLER, nee Evans, 84, of Riverside Drive, Wellsville, NY, died in her sleep at home on January 10, 2024.
Friends may call at OLNEY-FOUST Funeral Homes & Cremation, Crowell Chapel, Wellsville, on Tuesday, April 30, 2024 from 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM, with a Memorial Service following at 1:00 PM. Burial will be in Fairlawn Cemetery, Scio.
Cremation was at OLNEY-FOUST Private Crematory. Memorials may be made to Alzheimer’s Association of Western New York at www.alz.org/wny or SPCA serving Allegany County at www.spcaallegany.org. Arrangements are under the direction of Olney-Foust Funeral Homes & Cremation, Crowell Chapel, 296 North Main Street, Wellsville. Online condolences may be expressed at www.wellsvillefuneralhome.com.
Kathryn Eloise Coast, 102, of Smethport, formerly of Cyclone, passed away Saturday (April 27, 2024) at Lakeview Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center, Smethport.
She was born March 14, 1922 in Edenburg, PA, the daughter of Orlo and Martha (Cobler) Best. On September 27, 1939, she married Thomas E. Gorrell, who preceded her in death. She then married Darel E. Raught on December 28, 1985. After his passing, she married Harry E. Coast on September 21, 1991. He preceded her in death as well.
Kathryn attended Cyclone Elementary School and Smethport High School.
She worked for Herzog Toy Factory, Corning Glass Works, and for many households in the area wall papering, painting and cleaning.
She was a member of the Bradford and Smethport Senior Centers. She attended several local community churches over the years. She was a member of the Methodist Church in Cyclone and later held membership in the Farmers Valley Mission Church. Her last attendance was at East Smethport United Christian Church. When Kathryn was no longer able to attend, she was a participant in Bible Study at Dickinson Manor, Smethport. She loved fishing, hunting and camping. She had many stories to tell. She also raised and sold Chihuahuas for many years. She was a lover of all family dogs. She also loved ice cream.
Lois Ann Langberg Hicks, 91, a longtime resident of Coudersport, went to be with the Lord, on her birthday, Friday, April 26, 2024, in Buffalo General Medical Center, Buffalo, NY.
Lois was born on April 26, 1933 in Malverne, Long Island, New York. She was the daughter of Oscar and Bessie Bliss Langberg. On June 30, 1956 in Peterboro, New York, she married Norman Hicks.
Lois earned her undergraduate degree from Potsdam State Teacher’s College in Potsdam, New York, and then her Masters degree from Oswego State Teacher’s College in Oswego, New York. She was employed as an Elementary and Special Education teacher for many years. She officially retired from teaching in 2015 at the age of 82. She had been an elementary teacher for about 55 years.
She taught in many places, including Palmyra, Marion, and Dansville in New York State, St Marys, Pennsylvania, and at many of the elementary schools throughout Potter County near Coudersport, Pennsylvania.
Lois was a member of the Gospel Tabernacle, where she was active in her church. She enjoyed reading, playing her piano, and keeping up with local news. She also loved gardening, flowers, her family & friends, and most of all Jesus.
She was preceded in death by her husband of 66 years, Norman Hicks.
Carol S. Kuntz, 86, of Church Street, St. Marys, passed away peacefully Saturday, April 27, 2024 at Bradford Ecumenical Home.
Carol was born on October 12, 1937 in St. Marys, daughter of the late John and Priscilla Rigard Sterbank. Carol was a lifelong resident of the area and graduated from Central Catholic High School, Class of 1956.
On May 5, 1962 in Queen of the World Church, Carol married Edward H. Kuntz, who survives.
She was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church and Catholic Daughters of America. She was a devoted wife and mother. She enjoyed nothing more than spending time with her loving husband, children, grandchildren, family and friends. Carol and her husband, Ed, loved to travel throughout North America. Carol always had a smile and was there with a willing hand to help others. She had a beautiful spirit. Her kind words and actions touched many people. Carol was very artistic and loved to paint with oil and watercolors.
Carol was active in the local community and held several positions. She was the former President and Director of Elite Metal Products. She was a board member of Elcam. She also was a chairperson of Andrew Kaul Hospital Auxiliary Charity Ball. Carol assisted with keuchel and bake sales at the local churches. She was a Cub Scout leader and helped with various activities with her children. Carol sent letters to the elderly people of Elk County and also military overseas personnel during military engagements.
Guy E. Moscato, 92, of Sylvan Heights, Emporium, PA passed away Saturday morning, April 27 after a brief stay at Guy and Mary Felt Manor. He was born in DuBois on December 30, 1931.
His life can be defined by an unwavering commitment to family and a love for life that included a multitude of interests. Beginning at an early age and aided by his grandfather was a love for animals, especially his ever present and faithful collies having nine in total over his adult life.
Guy moved with his family to Emporium in 1939 where his father operated Moscato’s shoe repair and he and his mother ran a pet shop. He graduated from Emporium High School in 1950 and the Pennsylvania State University in 1955 with a degree in chemistry. He was employed by Hooker Chemical and then Occidental Petroleum in Niagara Fall, NY until his retirement in 1989. Despite the distance he made it a priority to drive home every weekend to enjoy time with family, his dogs and his hobbies.
Claire E. Myers, 36, of 330 Main St., Kersey, PA passed away unexpectedly after her long battle with addiction, on Friday, April 26, 2024. She was born on November 29, 1987, in DuBois, a daughter to the late Timothy A. “Red” Myers and Jessica Jakuboski Myers. Claire had lived in Kersey for the past 5 years and had lived in the Valley for several years and previously spent most of her life in Rasselas.
Claire was a 2006 graduate of Johnsonburg Area High School. Claire will be remembered for her smile, for her laugh, her silliness and her wit. She loved her boys and being a mother. She was so compassionate, but never got to fulfill her true calling of becoming a nurse.
She is now at peace after years of battling her demons and is with her dad, whom she loved dearly.
Gordon C. GRAVES, 85, of Mechanicsburg, PA, formerly of Ulysses, died Sunday, April 28, 2024 in his daughter’s home. Friends may call Wednesday, May 1, 2024 from 6:00 – 8:00 PM at Olney-Foust Funeral Homes & Crematory, Ulysses, PA.
Funeral Services will be held 11:00 AM, Thursday, May 2, 2024 in the Ulysses Free Methodist Church. Burial will be in Ulysses Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Ulysses Free Methodist Church. A complete obituary will be announced. Online condolences may be expressed at www.olneyfoust.com.
