Obituaries

Brenda Kaziska Rettger, 84, of Lakeview Senior Living Center, Smethport, PA passed away Thursday, July 18, 2024, at UPMC Cole, in Coudersport.

Born on September 10, 1939, in Erie, she was a daughter of the late William Barthel and Marion (Hudson) Deck. She was a 1957 graduate from Villa Maria High School.

On March 10, 1960, in Erie, she married Raymond V. Rettger, who preceded her in death on June 21, 1988. She later married Floyd Kaziska, who preceded her in death on December 3, 2015.

Brenda was a long-time employee of Costa’s Supermarket in the meat and delicatessen department, she most enjoyed catering events and the challenge they presented. She was an avid reader, excellent cook and she loved to sew, serving as a seamstress for area people she prided herself on the Victorian gowns she created for local historical/cultural events. She was a resident, vocal advocate for other residents, and role model at Lakeview Senior Care.

She enjoyed taking frequent walks around Hamlin Lake with her dog Walter, year-round if possible, and didn’t mind the geese. Brenda was a member of the St. Elizabeth of Hungary Church, and the Smethport Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary.

Donald J. Ives, 79, of Emporium, PA passed away peacefully at his residence, with his family by his side, early Friday morning (July 19, 2024) following a brief bout of pancreatic cancer. He was born September 18, 1944 in St. Marys, PA a son of the late Donald and Sylvia Tartaglia Ives. On August 13, 1966 in Ft. Gordon, GA he married the late Mary Klees.

Don and his loving late wife Mary were married over 53 years. He happily spent his last years with his loving companion, Denon Scott. He graduated from Cameron County High School in the class of 1962. He then graduated from Williamsport Technical College with a degree in electronics. After college he served with the US Army, Medical Corpsman in the 3rd US Army division during the Vietnam War. Don retired from 3M/Lanier where he worked for many years. He was a proud member of the National Rifle Association, American Legion, VFW, Bucktail Rod & Gun Club, May Hollow Sportsman Club and St. Mark Catholic Church.

Shirley D. Feidler, 93, a resident of Pinecrest Manor and formerly of 602 South Michael Street, St. Marys, PA passed away Thursday, July 18, 2024 at Pinecrest Manor.

She was born June 5, 1931, in St. Marys, daughter of the late Anthony and Ruth Schauer Detsch.  She was a lifelong resident of the area and was a graduate of Central Catholic High School.

On February 27, 1960 in Queen of the World Church, she married the late Norman F. Feidler, who preceded her in death on July 19, 2018.

Colette Linea Carlson, 38, of Coudersport, PA, passed away surrounded by family and loved ones following a long battle with cancer on Thursday, July 18, 2024.

Colette was born September 11, 1985, in Olean, NY, the daughter of Rob and Alisa Hayes Haskins, who survive. She was a 2004 graduate of Coudersport High School and earned a degree in Graphic Design at Pittsburgh Technical Institute.

She was employed as Assistant Manager at McDonald’s. After leaving McDonald’s, Colette traveled with Dustin pipelining across the country and seeing beautiful historical sights and beaches in Northern and Southern California, spending their time off hiking the Bay Area. She worked at Best By Foods upon coming off the road with Dustin where she loved the people she worked with until her cancer diagnosis in September of 2022.

Colette had a passion for art and loved bringing things to life and seeing them on display. Her canine companion and daughter, Rodie, was Colette’s world and would tag along wherever they went on an adventure. Together they would spend endless time on walks and hikes, forever loving each other.

Gary E. Miller, Sr., 77, of 1222 East Main Street, Bradford, passed away Thursday, July 18, 2024, at the Bradford Manor.

Born on August 4, 1946, in Kane, he was a son of the late Frank J. Miller and Phyllis J. (Stoddard) Miller. He was a 1964 graduate of Smethport High School.

On July 15, 1964, he enlisted into the United States Navy and remained in service for three and a half years, serving as an E4, before being honorably discharged on August 3, 1967. 

On November 29, 1969, in Bradford, Gary married Linda (Cramer) Miller, who passed away on August 16, 2016.

Priscilla H. “Sibby” Lenze, 84, of Johnsonburg and the wife of Mark Lenze of Shadows of the Past, passed away unexpectedly Thursday, July 18, 2024 at Penn Highlands Elk. 

Funeral arrangements are incomplete and under the direction of Lynch-Radkowski Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc.

Shirley D. Feidler, 93, a resident of Pinecrest Manor and formerly of 602 South Michael Street, St. Marys, passed away Thursday, July 18, 2024 at Pinecrest Manor. 

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Lynch-Radkowski Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc.

Kenneth J. Schwentner, 93, a resident of Elk Haven Nursing Home and formerly of 288 Brandy Camp Circle, Ridgway, passed away Wednesday, July 17, 2024 at Elk Haven.

He was born April 11, 1931, in St. Marys, son of the late Joseph and Irene Herbstritt Schwentner.  He was a lifelong resident of the area and was a graduate of Central Catholic High School, Class of 1950.  He worked in retail most of his life and retired from Burke’s Home Center in 1993.

On May 16, 1953, in Holy Cross Church in Brandy Camp, Ken married the late Helen F. Kline, who preceded him in death on May 13, 2009. 

Clare Walker, age 91, of Knoxville, PA passed away on Thursday, July 11, 2024 at The Gatehouse in Williamsport. Born August 15, 1932 in Knoxville, she was the daughter of the late Reed and Ada (Cooper) Merrick.

She was the bookkeeper for Walkers Hardware, owned by her and her husband, Ardell. She enjoyed crocheting and sewing; making many blankets for weddings and showers. She loved to dance and talk with anyone who would chat; most of all she loved spending time with her grandchildren.

Larue Leavitt

AUSTIN, PA—Larue Leavitt, of Austin, PA passed away in the comfort of her home on Wednesday, July 17, 2024.

All services are being held privately.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Home Health and Hospice, 102-108 South Main Street, Coudersport, PA 16915.

Larue entrusted her final care to Kevin J. Dusenbury, funeral director/owner of the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse.

Josephyn M. Tanner

SHINGLEHOUSE, PA—Josephyn M. Tanner, 16, of Shinglehouse, passed away on Monday, July 15, 2024, in the Olean General Hospital, Olean, NY.

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.

At 5:44 PM on Wednesday, Coudersport Ambulance was dispatched to Ross Glen Road for chest pain.

Albert E. Chaplain, 81, formally of Ridgway, PA died on Friday, July 12, 2024, at Elk Haven Nursing Home following a lengthy illness.

He was born on December 1, 1942, the son of the late Chester and Louise Chaplain. He married the late Clara Ann Chaplain, who preceded in death on July 8, 2000.

Albert was a resident of Elk County for most of his life and served in the U.S Army. He worked many years in the oil fields and Stackpole, later working as a forester. Albert was a member of the American Legion and VFW. He enjoyed reading, fishing, and hunting.

Patricia Hart, 84, formerly of 900 West Corydon Street, Bradford, PA left this life to be with her Lord and Savior on Tuesday, July 16, 2024, surrounded by family and friends at Bradford Regional Medical Center.

Born June 8, 1940, in Reynoldsville, she was a daughter of the late Thomas and Gertrude (Alessi) Gill.

On February 23, 1957, in the Christian Missionary Alliance Church, she married Thomas W. Hart who preceded her in death.

Pat was formerly employed at The Emery Hotel, where she met her husband, Case Cutlery, Byllye Lanes, DeSoto Motel Restaurant, and retired from Zippo Manufacturing Company in 2002.

She was a member of the First Wesleyan Church. Pat enjoyed her beloved pets, camping, fishing, playing cards, crocheting, bowling, corn hole, and mostly helping others. She often opened up her home for others to stay who found themselves alone, or family and friends who visited. She was a wonderful hostess to all that entered her home.

She was the main driver in our home growing up. She could drive
anything, from a school bus converted into a camper, to a small sedan. She never complained about driving anyone anywhere, and frequently took even strangers to doctor’s appointments, or family visits.

She loved doing crossword puzzles, but could solve most any puzzle placed before her. She loved game shows, watching Hallmark Mysteries, Perry Mason, and Adam 12 in her later years. She worked tirelessly during events at the church with her husband Tom at chicken barbecues, Sunday Morning
breakfasts, October festivals, and a host of other events.

George A. BOWEN, Jr., 85, of Galeton, PA, died Tuesday, July 16, 2024 in his home.  Born September 30, 1938, in Blossburg, he was the son of George A. and Hilma M. Hakes Bowen.  

The family resided in Wellsboro and Spring City, and in 1945 moved to Galeton, where his parents established the Bow Inn.  The Bow Inn started out selling gasoline and a snack bar, like the modern mini mart, eventually adding a motel, which they operated for many years. 

 A 1957 graduate of Galeton High School, he served honorably with the U.S. Army from November 29, 1961 – November 28, 1963.  He attained the rank of Sergeant and worked as a clerk in the post headquarters training office in Fort Polk, LA, where as many as 15,000 recruits received basic and advanced training at a time.  

George and his brother, Perley, worked with their father in the contracting business building homes and custom kitchens in the Galeton area for several years.  In the mid 1960’s, George started in the insurance business with Metropolitan Life Insurance Co. for a couple years, then opened Bowen Insurance Agency on Main Street, Galeton.  

Following the major fire, he moved the agency to the former GLF (Agway) building on Bridge Street and totally remodeled the building into his office and a rental apartment.  He operated as an Independent Agent/Broker for 30 years, retiring in 1999.  

George was a past member of Goodyear Hose Co., Gale Hose Ambulance, and Galeton Rotary Club, rejoining Rotary in 2012.  On November 14, 1975, in Galeton, he married the former Suzanne “Sue” Foster, who predeceased him on September 20, 2012.  He and Sue traveled to the 49 continental United States and all the Canadian Provinces in an RV.  They were members of the Holiday Rambler RV Club for nearly 35 years, attending regional and national events throughout the U.S. and Canada.  He served as national secretary and national director.  

He served as a Pike Township supervisor and secretary/treasurer for several terms.  George assisted at the Collins and Collins-Olney Funeral Homes in Galeton for many years.  He served as a Potter County Deputy Coroner and Chief Deputy Coroner for 20 years.  

In retirement, he drove charter motor coach for Benedict’s Bus Service in Wellsboro for 12 years, traveling throughout the eastern United States from Atlanta to the Canadian maritime provinces.  He also drove tractor and trailer for Campbell Trucking of Galeton for many years.  

James L. Ludwig                   

KEATING SUMMIT, PA—James L. “Jim” Ludwig, 89, a longtime resident of Keating Summit, PA passed away at home in the comforting presence of his loving family on Wednesday, July 17, 2024, after a brief 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.

Marlene Irene “Molly” Chapman

Marlene Irene “Molly Chapman, 93, of Olean, NY died Monday (July 15, 2024).

She was born in Ceres to parents, Roy and Edrie Torrey Loucks.

Molly was loved and considered an icon of the community. Beginning in the 1960s when she co-owned the Dairy Bar in Ceres, people came from miles around for her delicious pies and charming conversation.

In the 1970s, she became involved in the League of Women Voters, eventually becoming president of the Cattaraugus County chapter. Her enthusiasm for an honest and fair political environment in the U.S. became one of her life-long passions, resulting in volunteerism in state and county political parties. She became so well-known by state and local representatives, one state senator always stopped by her house every Christmas to fill his pockets with gingerbread men.

Molly’s proclivity for volunteerism did not stop with politics, however. Some of the many social groups she enjoyed were Sweet Adelines, Order of Amaranth, White Shrine, The Daughters of the American Revolution, Oswayo Valley Historical Society, Cattaraugus County Republican Party (secretary), Town of Olean Planning Board (committeeman), the Weston Mills Fire Department Volunteers and manning the information desk on Interstate 86 for the Department of New York State Tourism.

Molly’s extensive involvement earned her the Cattaraugus County Woman of the Year Award in 2008 and the 2024 Volunteer of the Year Award, which was presented to her by New York State Governor Kathy Hochul in Albany in April.

Besides belonging to and engaging in a myriad of social groups, Molly was a devout Christian who thrived within her church community. From singing in the church choir to playing the organ for services until just a short time before her death, Molly was a constant role model of faith and an inspiration to others.

Molly’s love of others was shown in many ways. She baked hundreds of cookies to give away during the year and was known to open her home to strangers in need. She exemplified the meaning of kindness and love to others.

Gary Lee Gerges, 81, of Wellsboro, PA passed away July 9, 2024, at Guthrie Robert Packer in Sayre, PA.  He was born September 11, 1942, in Royersford, PA to Daniel C. and Velma Hazel (Wood) Gerges. 

Gary worked as a carpenter, and owned and operated his business, often with other family members.  Gary was a member of the Royers Rod and Gun Club near Hills Creek State Park, Limerick Bowmen of Limerick, PA, the Humane Fire Company and the National Rifle Association.  He was an avid hunter, camper and fisherman.  

Lois M. Lendvay, 77, of Youngsville, PA, formerly of Scandia, PA, died on Monday July 15, 2024, in Warren General Hospital.

She was born in Bradford, PA, on March 18, 1947, the daughter of the late Clayton N. and Harriet A. (Gardner) Hansen. She was a nurse’s aide with many local establishments in Warren County, then was a bartender for Hog Haven. Lois enjoyed traveling, going to the beach, and spending time with her family and friends. She volunteered with the ladies auxiliary with the Scandia volunteer fire department. She was also a member of the Warren American Legion.  Lois was also known as the Queen of Hog Haven.

George A. BOWEN, Jr., 85, of Galeton, PA, died Tuesday, July 16, 2024 in his home.  Arrangements will be announced by Olney-Foust Funeral Homes & Crematory, Ulysses, PA.  Online condolences may be expressed at www.olneyfoust.com.

Rosalie A. Brown, age 85, of Lawrenceville, PA passed away on Friday, July 12, 2024 at Arnot Ogden Medical Center in Elmira, NY. Born September 9, 1938, she was the daughter of the late Walter and Betty (Stewart) Rumburger. Rosalie married Alfred J. Brown on November 23, 1957 and they shared 65 years together until his passing on December 24, 2022.

She enjoyed crocheting, quilting, crafting and painting.

Jeanne M. Warsheski, age 76 of Sabinsville, PA passed away at home on Sunday, July 7, 2024. Born September 10, 1947 in Baraboo, WI, she was the daughter of the late Herman and Helen (Kessler) Kluender. Jeanne met Frank P. Warsheski, Sr. at a mixer dance in Quantico, VA. One dance that night and they were together for 57 years, only being separated once when he was deployed and then his passing on October 14, 2022.

She was a loving wife of a Vietnam Combat Marine, avid bird watcher and wildlife and enjoyed her flower gardens.

Carolyn E. Fish, age 89, of Knoxville, PA passed away at home on Friday, July 5, 2024. Born August 2, 1934 in Elkland, PA, she was the daughter of the late Leon and Grace (Townsend) Cruttenden. She married Wesley L. Fish and they shared 67 years together until his passing on July 4, 2023.

Carolyn enjoyed crocheting, reading, going to the casino, traveling and spending time with the grandchildren.

Frederick L. “Butch” Lininger, II

  PORT ALLEGANY- Frederick L. “Butch” Lininger, II, 64, of E. Maple St., Port Allegany, PA passed away Friday (July 12, 2024) in the Olean General Hospital, after a brief illness.

     Born November 29, 1959, in Port Allegany, he was a son of Frederick L. and Anna M. Davis Lininger.  On July 26, 2020, in Port Allegany, he married his longtime friend of 25 years, Amy L. Billyard, who survives.

      Butch was a longtime resident of the area and a graduate of Port Allegany High School, class of 1977.

      He was employed with Verallia Co., Port Allegany, for several years, retiring in 2019.

      Butch was a veteran having served with the US Navy.

     After retiring, he enjoyed visiting his family in Florida during the holidays and going to drag races.

Kathleen Teresa (Bauer) McDonald, 81 of Wilcox, Pa passed away on July 15, 2024, at home surrounded by her family. Born November 26, 1942 in Pittsburgh, Pa, a daughter to the late John L Bauer and Mildred L. (Dye) Bauer of Oakmont, Pa.  

Kathy attended Mt Mercy Academy in Oakland, Pa and graduated in 1960. Following her graduation, Kathy relocated with her family to Johnsonburg, Pa where they ran a family business; Bauers’ Fashions (1959) and Bauers’ Brides and Belles for over 70 years. Kathy was a seamstress for the business and was known for the beautiful work she did on wedding gowns and alike. Kathy later became part owner of the business and retired in 2016.

Kathy married James H. McDonald of Johnsonburg on April 6, 1963 at St. John’s Lutheran Church, Johnsonburg. They created a home in Wilcox for three daughters; Dawna K. McDonald of Wilcox, Rhonda L. McDonald of Montoursville, Pa and Tammy L. (Ricky) Love of Wilcox. Our mom was a wonderful mother, who supported us and from whom we learned a lot of life lessons. One of the most important was how to “sound it out” when she was asked how to spell a word. To this day that advice is used almost daily.

Kathy was “Gum Gum” to her three grandchildren, who she loved dearly. John H. Schneider (Johnny Jings) of Montoursville, Pa; Sarah L. Love (Miss Sarah) and Katelyn M. Love (Katie-did) of Wilcox. Kathy loved spending time with her family; especially her grandchildren. She was an animal lover and always had a four-legged companion by her side. She and her “Shadow” were inseparable unless she was chasing him through town, when he decided to check out the neighborhood.

Kathy was gifted, not only with sewing but also painting ceramics, which she did for years. Her family will cherish the pieces that she made. Kathy also loved crossword and jigsaw puzzles; the bigger and harder the better. Mom loved her detective and law shows. From Perry Mason, and Quincey, to NCIS, and Blue Bloods, she could solve crime with the best of them. Early on she was a member of the Johnsonburg Women’s Club and a Girl Scout leader.

Port Allegany – Donald M. Freer, 89, of Bradford, PA passed away Saturday (July 13, 2024) at his home surrounded by his loving family.

He was born May 22, 1935, in Port Allegany, the son of Milford S. and Clara (Jackson)Freer. On September 18, 1966, in Emporium, PA, he married Shirley Rose Freer, who survives.

Donald attended Eldred and Port Allegany Schools

Mr. Freer was a stock clerk, employed by Market Basket and The Jubilee in Port Allegany, PA, for 41 years.

Richard “Rick” L. Bish, 75, of Cottage Lane in Kane, PA passed away Sunday (July 14) at UPMC-Kane, surrounded by his family.  

Born October 18, 1948 in Kane, he is the son of the late John “Jack” and Leona (Williams) Bish.

Rick was a 1967 graduate of Smethport Area High School. On Oct. 27, 1978 in Hazel Hurst, he married Debbie Anderson, who survives.

Rick worked for Kane Decorating for many years before joining the US Army and serving in Vietman. During his time of service, he was a combat engineer, a switchboard operator, as well as a member of a rock band that traveled from base to base to boost morale and entertain fellow troops, an experience he fondly remembered.

Rick worked for UPS where he had a safe driving record for 30 years. He was a member of the Mt. Jewett American Legion Post 574 and gave much of his time to the Little League field, community park and Fishin’ Kids Club in Hazel Hurst.

To his family he was known as a handy man and a Mr. Fix It. He believed “If it’s a job worth doing, it’s worth doing right.” Rick enjoyed working outdoors, landscaping, live music and dancing, Nascar, jigsaw puzzles and taking cruises with family.

Port Allegany – Carl G. Larkin, 80, of Turtlepoint, PA passed away Sunday (July 14, 2024) at his home.

He was born July 11, 1944, in Olean, NY the son of Ralph and Glenna (Causer) Larkin.

In  1962 in Olean, NY he married Margaret Knowlton.

In 2012 in Smethport, he married Donna M. Parris, who died on November 17, 2022.

He was a Vietnam Veteran having served in the U.S. Army.

Mr. Larkin was employed by Portville Gravel Pit for many years.

Betty Joann Connolly (Goodyear) passed away peacefully on March 26, 2024 in Richmond, Virginia at the age of 84 after a long battle with Primary Lateral Sclerosis (PLS).

She was born on February 9, 1940 in Olean, New York, to the late George E. Goodyear and Marthanna (Shields) Goodyear. Betty was a kind, generous, and loyal friend, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and aunt. She was known for her selfless and faithful nature.

Betty graduated from Otto-Eldred High School (Class of 1958) and was a faithful member of St. Gabriel Catholic Church. In her free time, she enjoyed reading, knitting, playing bingo, birdwatching, and spending quality time with her family and dear friends as well as her WINGS and Praying Hands family. On June 25, 1966, she married Jon Connolly, the love of her life. Their adventures together included raising a family in such places as Germany, Morocco, Taiwan and England and making lifelong friends along the journey.