James A. “Jim” Moore, 87, of Bradford, PA passed away on Tuesday (Dec. 12, 2023) at UPMC Cole, Coudersport.
The family will receive friends on Saturday, April 20, 2024, from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at the Abundant Life Assembly of God Church, Bradford, with a memorial service to immediately follow at noon with Pastor Ron Spencer officiating.
Memorial contributions in his memory can be made to the Abundant Life Assembly of God Church, 140 Minard Run Rd., Bradford, PA 16701.
Funeral arrangements are entrusted to the care of the Mascho Funeral Home Inc.
Norma J. Farnsworth, 87, of Warren, PA, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, April 16, 2024, in her home, after a battle with cancer.
She was born in Warren, PA, on May 19, 1936, the daughter of the late Arthur E. and Eva L. (Irwin) Burgeson. Norma was a graduate of Warren Area High School Class of 1954. She went on to retire from Osram-Sylvania after 32 years of service retiring in 1994. On February 19, 1955, Norma married Clyde J. Farnsworth in Warren, and they spent 49 years together before he passed on September 29, 2004.
Norma was of the Methodist faith and was a member at the former Epworth Methodist Church, later she attended First Methodist Church in Warren. She enjoyed traveling, artwork, and reading a good murder mystery. Norma also loved wintering in Arizona and Florida, to get away from the cold weather.
Lucile “Polly” Wightman Baldwin was born in Friendship, New York, on August 26, 1924, at age 99. She went home to be with her Lord on April 15, 2024. She will be laid to rest next to her husband at Dimmick Cemetery, Wirt, NY.
In addition to being a loving mother and homemaker, Lucile was a partner to her husband during their 50 years in the ministry in Pennsylvania, New York, and Ohio. During WWII, she did her part in the war effort as a welder in Olean, NY. She enjoyed her extended family, and nothing pleased her more than having all of her nieces and nephews congregate at the family homestead as “the cousins” reminisced about old times with each other and Aunt Polly.
She was a gifted musician and used her skills as church pianist, piano teacher, and accompanist for school choirs until she was 90 years old.
After retiring, and until her passing, she was an active member of First Day Baptist Church in Richburg, New York, where she and her husband had met as teenagers. After graduating from Richburg High School, she attended Practical Bible Training School in Binghamton, NY.
Ralph N. Pearce, 72, of 158 Williams Street, Bradford, PA passed away Monday, April 15, 2024, at Bradford Ecumenical Home. He lives in victory with his Savior Jesus Christ.
Born November 10, 1951, in Bradford Hospital, he was a son of the late Ralph A. and Mary (Norton) Pearce.
Ralph was a 1969 graduate of Bradford Area High School. After graduating he started working as a stock handler at Zippo Manufacturing.
He was drafted into the United States Army 1971, a week later he enlisted into the Army to improve his opportunities for future advancement. He earned certifications in Ground Surveillance Radar Diploma at Fort Huachuca AZ in 1971 and was stationed in Troop C Third Squadron of the 8th US Cavalry at the Coleman Barracks in Sandhofen District of Mannheim Germany. There he earned his certificate of Achievement in Completion of Unit/Organizational Supply Procedures in 1972 and Basic Leadership Course. He completed his Ground Surveillance Radar School in 1972. Ralph patrolled the East West German border and drove armored personnel carriers during the Cold War. He was awarded the Sharpshooter M16 Badge, the National Defense Service Medal, and the Good Conduct Medal. He was honorably discharged in 1974. While in the service in Germany he played on the Army soccer team to promote better German American relations.
On June 2,1973, in the First Presbyterian Church, he married Susan C. (Rhoades) Pearce who survives.
Bonnie A. Nichols, 96, formerly of 656 South Avenue, Bradford, PA passed away Sunday, April 14, 2024, at Bradford Manor.
Born January 13, 1928, in Dayton WV, she was a loving daughter of the late Burtis and Artrolia (Chisler) Moore.
On October 6, 1947, in Clarksburg, WV, she married Dr. William D. Nichols (Nick), who preceded her in death on April 23, 2003.
Bonnie was a dedicated wife, homemaker and a member of the Church of Christ. She had a passion for gardening, she was an amazing baker, she loved being surrounded by family and mentoring children. In earlier days, she and Nick would spend time boating at the lake and enjoying life.
Elaine C. Ekblom, 76, of Warren, PA., died Sunday morning, April 14, 2024, at Kinzua Healthcare & Rehabilitation Center, Warren, PA., after an extended illness. She was born January 21, 1948, in Williamsport, PA. She was the daughter of Catherine Vogel and Ero J. Ekblom. Elaine was a graduate of Titusville High School. She was employed for 25+ years with the Warren State Hospital as a psychiatric aide. She was a member of St. Joseph R.C. Church. Elaine enjoyed hunting, gardening, and crocheting.
Shirley Ann Keller Rupprecht, 86, of 219 South Paul Road and formerly of Lawrence Street, St. Marys, PA, passed away peacefully with her family by her side Monday, April 15, 2024 at Elk Haven Nursing Home.
Shirley was preceded in death by her parents, Paul L. and Viola Wurm Keller; her stepmother, Elizabeth “Betty” Orsini Keller; and her brother, Paul F. Keller.
Thomas (Tom) Arthur Maynard, 86, passed away on April 15, 2024 in Huntersville NC. He was predeceased by his wife, Joan (Oviatt) Maynard, who passed away on March 4, 2024.
Tom was born and raised in Coudersport PA, the son of Arthur and Susan (Neefe) Maynard. He graduated from Coudersport High School in 1956. He and Joan married on October 11, 1957. He was a longtime resident of Coudersport until moving to North Carolina in 2015
He was employed from 1956 to 2005 in manufacturing, as an insurance agent, as a bank trust officer, in bookkeeping, and in commercial real estate management and ownership.
Smethport – David L. Petruzzi, 87, of Smethport, PA passed away Monday (April 15, 2024) at his home in Smethport.
He was born April 10, 1937 in Kane, the son of Fred and Shirley (Rifle) Petruzzi. On March 17, 1956, in St. Marys Church, Oak Ridge, TN, he married his life’s love and best friend, Mary Pat VanFleet, who survives.
He was a graduate of Smethport Area High School and attended the University of Tennessee.
Dave lived and worked in the Olean-Allegany area for 25 years as a construction electrician. In 1983, he went to work at Hull Electric of Bradford as an outside sales representative. He retired from there in 2003.
He was a member of International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers #106 of Jamestown, NY for 43 years. He was also a member of the Olean Elks Club, Allegany Legion and Knights of Columbus Council #1220 in Allegany, NY. He is a member of St. Elizbeth Church, Smethport, where he was a former council member. He was also involved with Meals On Wheels, was a member of the Crosby Legion, the Keating Sportsman Club and the NRA. He was an avid New York Yankees fan. Dave was also a former member of the Big 30 Committee. He enjoyed the outdoors, hunting and fishing. He especially enjoyed being with family at family gatherings. He loved his family very much and was extremely proud of them.
Port Allegany – Joyce M. Sizer, 88, of Smethport, PA passed away Monday (April 15, 2024) at Sena Kean Manor, Smethport.
She was born August 26, 1935 in Port Allegany, the daughter of DeForest and Leona (LaBarr) Baker. In Emporium, PA, she married Frederick Sizer, who died August 2004.
Mrs. Sizer was a graduate of Port Allegany High School and was employed by Motor Coil in Emporium.
She is survived by: a niece, Pamela (Donald) Keech who took care of her
Two step-daughters; Karen Rhinebolt and Chris Hughes
Four step-grandchildren and many other nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, a brother John Baker and a sister Euretta Amell
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, April 17, 2024 from 11:00 am- 12:00 noon at the First Church of God, Main St., Eldred, PA, where funeral services will start at 12 noon with the Rev. James Kazimer, Pastor, officiating. Burial will be in the Portage Township Cemetery, Sizerville, PA.
Memorials may be made to Alzheimer’s Association, 225 N. Michigan Ave., Fl. 17, Chicago, IL 60601.
Joan H. Debolt (nee Hoffman), passed away peacefully at her home on March 22, 2024, in Bradford at the age of 83.
Born on September 1, 1940, in Akron, Ohio. Joan was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother and friend.
Joan was an avid bridge player and master knitter. She dedicated her life to sharing her passion for knitting by teaching and mentoring numerous individuals. Her kindness and patience touched the lives of many. Her wish to be remembered in life as a loving wife and mother goes without question.
Thomas E. Payne, 86, of 7722 Rte. 417W., Bolivar, NY passed away Monday, April 15, 2024 at Wellsville Manor after a short illness.
Born on August 11, 1937, in Wellsville, he was a son of Vaughn A. and Frances (Bryan) Payne. On September 12, 1958, in Richmond, VA he married the former Charlotte Crandall who survives.
Tom went to school in Pensacola Florida. He had worked at Reid Hayden in Richmond, VA, Smith Construction in Pensacola, FL, Pratt & Whitney Air Craft in Hartford CT, St. Francis Hospital in Olean, Martin Dry Cleaners in Attica, and last was a counselor for the New York State Department of Corrections retiring in 1999.
He was best known for selling his veggies, fruits and flowers in Cuba, Allegany, Portville, and Bolivar from his roadside stand.
In addition to his wife Charlotte of Bolivar, he is survived by
Gary L. Foster, 63, of Sabinsville, PA, passed away on Sunday, April 14, 2024 at the Sweden Valley Manor, Coudersport, PA.
Born June 18, 1960, in Wellsboro, PA, he was a son of Junior E. and Nancy K. (Gridley) Foster, who both survive. On August 27, 1983, Gary married the former Pamela Williams, with whom he shares two sons.
He worked on the railroad for several years and then moved into the beer distributing business and worked there for 30 years. Gary was an avid hunter, trapper and loved fishing and was an excellent fly fisherman. He was a member of Kamp Kan’thitem. He loved camping and especially sleeping under the stars (which is the only thing he would miss a NASCAR race for).
Gary loved the races. He was a true fan who passed on that love to his boys. They will also carry on his tradition of a quick wit always having a joke and a laugh.
Port Allegany – Joyce M. Sizer, 88, of Smethport, PA passed away Monday (April 15, 2024) at Sena Kean Manor, Smethport.
She was born August 26, 1935, in Port Allegany, the daughter of DeForest and Leona (LaBarr) Baker. In Emporium, PA, she married Frederick Sizer, who died in August 2004.
Mrs. Sizer was a graduate of Port Allegany High School and was employed by Motor Coil, in Emporium.
She is survived by: a niece Pamela (Donald) Keech who took care of her
Two step-daughters; Karen Rhinebolt and Chris Hughes
Four step-grandchildren and many other nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, a brother John Baker and a sister Euretta Amell
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, April 17, 2024, from 11:00- 12:00 PM at the First Church of God, Main St., Eldted, Pa where the funeral service will start at noon with the Rev. James Kazimer, Pastor, officiating. Burial will be in the Portage Township Cemetery, Sizerville, PA.
Memorials may be made to Alzheimer’s Association, 225 N. Michigan Ave., Fl. 17, Chicago, IL 60601.
Karen L. Atwell “beloved wife, mother, sister, and grandmother”
LITTLE GENESEE, NY—Karen L. Atwell, 62, a longtime resident of Little Genesee, passed away unexpectedly with her loving husband by her side on Friday, April 12, 2024, in the Olean General Hospital, Olean, NY.
Born on Sunday, September 10, 1961 in Wellsville, she was a daughter of Paul W. and Lucymae Truman Atwell. She was married to Tom Johnson for almost 40 years.
Karen was a graduate of Bolivar High School, a graduate of the former Olean Business Institute in Olean, and was also a graduate of the Continental School of Beauty in Olean.
Karen was kind and loving person. She was briefly employed by Arc in Belmont as a resident aide until an injury at work forced her retirement.
She enjoyed her adopted families and kids. She also enjoyed doing yard work. She loved her many animals throughout the years. Karen’s greatest love was her family, especially her grandchildren.
Donna M. Carlson, 74, of Brockport, PA passed away on Friday, April 12, 2024, at her home with her family by her side.
She was born on June 17, 1949, in Olean, NY, a daughter of the late Sidney and Ruth Holtz Bennett.
Donna was a member of the Brockway Church of God. She worked at Metaldyne for many years and always looked forward to dinner and game nights with the girls from work. She enjoyed playing with her dog Izzy and loved nothing more than spending time with her children and grandchildren.
Steven Milton Freeman, of Coudersport, PA passed away at his home with family members at his side, on Saturday, April 13, 2024, following a lengthy illness.
Steve was born June 22, 1952, in Coudersport, the eldest son of Milton S. Freeman and Betty Palmatier Freeman.
Steve served his nation throughout the United States and Europe in the US Air Force from April 27, 1972 to October 31, 1994, retiring with the rank of Master Sgt. His duty assignments were located in New York (two tours), Alaska, Wyoming, Germany, and Nevada. Steve’s duties included heating, plumbing and Civil Engineering taskings. He received numerous commendations and a prestigious thank you from President Reagan as he was hand-picked for a special project.
Upon retiring from the military, Steve was employed by Wending Creek Farms of Coudersport from 1994 until civilian retirement in 2022.
Steve was known for his incredible humor, wit, lifelong compassion for storytelling and pulling pranks, and helping family and friends. He was a very proud Poppop to his six grandchildren and enjoyed teasing them and making them smile. He enjoyed woodworking, fishing, gardening, hunting, camping, taking family trips, and producing maple syrup at Wending Creek Farms.
AUSTIN, PA—-Family and friends are invited to attend a Celebration of Life for Ralph M. Young, 80, of Austin, from 12 noon to 2 pm on Sunday, April 21, 2024, followed by a time of sharing at 2 pm, at the Coudersport American Legion, Buffalo Street, Coudersport.
Ralph passed away on December 7, 2023.
Ralph’s family entrusted his care to Kevin J. Dusenbury, funeral director/owner of the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse.
Elaine C. Ekblom, 76, of Warren, PA, died Sunday morning, April 14, 2024.
Friends will be received at St. Joseph R.C. Church, 600 Pennsylvania Avenue West, Warren, PA., on Friday, April 19, 2024, from 10:00 to 11:00 A.M. A Mass of Christian Burial will be conducted at 11:00 A.M. A complete obituary will be announced through the Donald E. Lewis Funeral Home, Inc., Warren, PA.
Corie L. Carpenter: Loving Mother, Daughter, Sister, and Friend
Corie L. Carpenter, 39, of 3 Keller Street, Cuba, passed away unexpectedly Saturday, April 13, 2024 at Olean General Hospital after a brief illness.
Born on February 19, 1985, in Olean, she was a daughter of Keith and Julie Perry.
Corie was a graduate of Cuba-Rushford Central School Class of 2003. She furthered her studies and became a Certified Nurse’s Assistant.
She had worked as a CNA for Cuba Memorial Hospital, was a direct care aide for Venture Forth, and worked for Intandem in Youth homes. She was currently employed by CCMR3 as a debt collector.
Corie loved spending time with her children and family. She was a kind hearted soul that would help anyone she could anytime. She also enjoyed crafting and shopping.
On Wednesday, April 10, 2024, Leah Elizabeth Bacchetti (Rowland) beloved mother and grandmother, passed away peacefully at the age of 100.
Graduating Valedictorian of her 1942 Lander High School class, Leah went on to pursue a nursing degree from Meyer Memorial Hospital in Buffalo, N.Y. A strong and caring woman, she spent her career helping others, but the highlight for her was working in the surgical suite of the cardiology department.
Leah married to the love of her life, Robert, for 48 years before his passing in 1995. After his passing, she decided she wanted to see the world. She traveled to Alaska, Hawaii, the Caribbean, Africa, and through Europe.
In her 60’s, Leah read a book called “Be an Outrageous Older Woman”, and boy did she take that seriously. She was outrageous in every wonderful way. A lover of animals and mischief, Leah would go for walks in the park where it was illegal to feed deer and fashioned herself a pair of pants that allowed food to fall out of the bottom as she walked. She enjoyed feeding the deer but was incensed that the authorities told her she wasn’t allowed to. The greatest non-Italian cook of Italian food, Leah’s ravioli was well-known for being world class and often caused family fights as to who got to take home the leftovers.
Above all else, Leah valued the relationships she had with her family. She was a loving mother and doting grandmother. A special “thank you” to son David, daughter-in-law Christine, and her aides Celestine, Winnie, Denise, and Mary for taking such wonderful care of her the last few years of her life.
Leah was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Robert, brothers, Robert and Howard, and sister, Pauline Sarvis.
She is survived by sons Robert (Astrid) and David (Christine), grandchildren Christina (Jobin) and Andrew, great-grandchildren Lillana, Riley, and Juliet, sister Eleanor Johnson, and several nieces and nephews.
Visitation hours will be on Friday, April 19, 2024, from 12:00 Noon until 1:00 P.M. at the Donald E. Lewis Funeral Home, Inc., 304 East Street, Warren, PA. Burial will be in Pine Grove Cemetery, Russell, PA. E-mail condolences may be sent by visiting www.lewisfuneralhomeinc.com
LITTLE GENESEE, NY—Karen L. Atwell, 62, a longtime resident of Little Genesee, NY passed away unexpectedly on Friday, April 12, 2024, in the Olean General Hospital, Olean, NY.
Arrangements entrusted to the care of Kevin J. Dusenbury, funeral director/owner of the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse, PA, are incomplete and will be announced with a full obituary.
CUBA, NY—A Celebration of Life for William E. “Bill” Miller, 97, of Cuba, will be held at 2pm on Sunday, April 14, 2024, at Bethel Lutheran Church, 79 Brooklyn Street, Portville, NY. A dinner will follow the service.
Bill’s family has entrusted his care and cremation arrangements to Kevin J. Dusenbury, funeral director/owner of the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse, PA.
Kay A. Baker, 57, of Emporium, PA passed away at her residence, with her family by her side, on Saturday (April 13, 2024) morning following a lengthy illness.
She was born August 4, 1966 in Altoona, PA a daughter of the late Sheldon Lee and Catherine Joann Snyder Baker. She had been a resident of Emporium for many years with her long-time companion Thomas McKimm.
Kay enjoyed life and spending time with her family and friends. She enjoyed kayaking with friends and spending time fishing and camping with Tom. She was the life of the party.
Kay is survived by a daughter, Cassie (Mark) Buoymaster, Altoona; two sons, Ren LaPenna, Bedford and Joseph LaPenna, Jr., Juniata; 9 grandchildren: Mackenzie, Brycin, Landen, Austin, Arya, Ethan, Sam, Eva and Myra; long time companion, Tom McKimm; four sisters: Barbara, Nancy, Kim, and Donna.
In addition to her parents, Kay was preceded in death by a sister, Catherine and a brother, Sheldon, Jr.
There will be No Visitation and services will be at the convenience of the family.
John M. Rymell, age 72, of Muncy, PA, died on Thursday, April 11, 2024.
He was born on March 1, 1952 in Ft. Benning, GA a son of the late Jack and Margaret (Bookmiller) Rymell and was married to Doreen (Reamer) Rymell.
John was formerly employed by Bloomsburg, University and was a ham radio operator, youth shooting instructor and enjoyed shooting and reloading.
He is survived by his wife: Doreen Rymell of Muncy, PA, son: Jason (Robyn) Rymell of Shickshinny, PA, brothers: James Rymell of Athens, PA, Joel (Toni) Rymell of Gillett, PA, sister: Jeanne (Sunil) Kulatunge of Waverly, NY and a grandson: Jenson Rymell.
A family graveside service will be held at the Wellsboro Cemetery, Wellsboro, PA.
Arrangements are entrusted to the Carleton Funeral Home, Inc. www.carletonfh.com Wellsboro, PA.