COUDERSPORT, Pa.—Barbara J. Neefe, 73, a lifelong resident of Coudersport, passed away with her loving family by her side on Wednesday, October 18, 2023, in UPMC Cole, Coudersport.
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.
Chief Timothy M. Johnson (TJ), 56, of Warren, PA, lost his life in the line of duty shortly after responding to an EMS call on Monday evening, October 16, 2023. He passed away early Tuesday morning, October 17 at Warren General Hospital after an unexpected medical emergency.
Tim was born in Warren, PA, on December 1, 1966, the son of the late Gary W. and Jane L. (Bertetto) Johnson. On June 19th, 1993, he married the former Kathryn (Kathy) McAulay at St. John’s Lutheran Church.
He was a graduate of Warren High School Class of 1985, he then graduated from the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford, with a bachelor’s degree in computer science. He was employed by Whirley Industries for 34 years and most recently was the IT Director.
Tim was a very active member at Pleasant VFD for the past 37 years. He was the current Chief and Trustee as well as an EMT for over 35 years. Tim had also served Pleasant VFD as a secretary, deputy chief, and assistant chief.
COLUMBUS, Ohio—The family of Ruth Ann Girlando will receive visitors from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m., followed by a Celebration of Ruth’s life at 5:00 p.m., on Sunday, October 22, 2023, at J. Liu’s, 6880 North High Street, Worthington. Friends are encouraged to attend and share stories about Ruth, if they wish. Ruth’s ashes will be interred at Maple Grove Cemetery in Shinglehouse, Pennsylvania on November 4.
Ruth’s family entrusted her care and cremation arrangements to Kevin J. Dusenbury, funeral director/owner of the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse, Pa.
For further information, please visit www.virgillhowardfuneralhome.com
Lee F. LaBARR, 82, of Harrison Valley, PA, formerly of Elkland, died Monday, October 16, 2023 in his home.
Born October 1, 1941, in Blossburg, he was the son of Frederick and Alice J. Minnick LaBarr. On March 3, 1962, he married the former Janet Eileen VanCise, who predeceased him on June 17, 2015. He was employed by Ingersoll-Rand and Dresser-Rand in Painted Post, NY for 45 years.
Mary L. PROUTY, 80, of Ulysses, PA, died Wednesday, October 18, 2023 in Sweden Valley Manor, Coudersport.
Arrangements will be announced by Olney-Foust Funeral Homes & Crematory, Ulysses. Online condolences may be expressed at www.olneyfoust.com.
Cornelia Wheeler Boyden “Corkie” THUM, 84, of Sabinsville, PA, died Sunday, October 15, 2023, in Wellsboro. Born February 23, 1939, in New Brunswick, NJ, she was the youngest child of Alan Arthur and Mabel Josephine Gregg Boyden.
Her early life was on the family farm that her oldest brother managed and where she learned to love and take care of all kinds of animals and value the outdoors. A 1956 graduate of Princeton High School, she earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Douglass College. After college, Corkie began employment as a caseworker for Middlesex County Welfare Board, where her fondness for all beings was realized by working with the poor. On August 5, 1961, in Franklin Park, NJ, she married Richard D. “Rick” Thum, who predeceased her on January 23, 2019. Together they enjoyed 57 years of marriage and had two sons, Douglas Scott Thum and David Steven Thum.
In addition to her husband and parents, she was predeceased by her son, Davey; brothers and sister-in-law, Alan Arthur Boyden, Jr. and Douglas Gregg (Helen) Boyden; and a sister, Mabel Maxon Davenport.
Larry K. Legersky, 54, of Emporium, PA formerly of Apollo PA passed away at his residence, Emporium, PA on Wednesday (October 18, 2023) morning following a lengthy illness. He was born June 23, 1969 in Natrona Heights, PA a son of the late John and Virginia Nale Legersky.
Larry worked for Kautz Plumbing for several years. He enjoyed the outdoors, fishing and hanging out with his friends.
Alan J. Peyno “beloved father and grandfather”
Alan J. Peyno, 65, of Coudersport, passed away with his loving son by his side on Monday, October 16, 2023, in Sweden Valley Manor, Coudersport, after a short illness.
Born on Monday, November 18, 1957 in Havana, Cuba, he was a son of Edwin and Virginia Velaseo Peyno.
Alan graduated from high school in Havana. He was an auto mechanic by trade.
In keeping with his Cuban heritage, Alan enjoyed Cuban Salsa dancing, both in Cuba and in the United States. He enjoyed fishing. His greatest love was his family, especially spending time with his granddaughter and grandson. His grandchildren loved it when he pushed them on the swing and gave them ice cream!!
Sherri L. (Moon) Thornton, age 51, of Cogan Station, PA, formerly of Wellsboro, PA, died on Tuesday, October 17, 2023.
She was born on May 29, 1972 in Wellsboro, PA, a daughter of George and Carol (Baldwin) Moon and was married to John Thornton.
Sherri was formerly employed by Robert Packer Hospital, Sayre, PA and as a Medicare claims examiner in Williamsport, PA and enjoyed crafting, birdwatching and cooking.
She is survived by her parents: George and Carol Moon of Wellsboro, PA, husband: John Thornton of Cogan Station, PA, daughter: Taylor Hill of Liverpool, NY and a brother: Gary Moon of Lawrenceville, PA.
A private family graveside service will be held at the Ansonia Cemetery.
Arrangements are entrusted to the Carleton Funeral Home, Inc. www.carletonfh.com
James Henry Bogdan, 71, of Otto Township, Pa., died Saturday (Oct. 14, 2023) at Olean General Hospital with his family by his side, after a battle with multiple myeloma.
Born to Henry and Dorothy Bogdan on Jan. 6, 1952, in Buffalo, Jim was a 1970 graduate of Canisius High School. He studied geology at SUNY Fredonia and moved to Pennsylvania to work in the oil fields. There, he worked for Piper Well Surveys Inc., Gearhart Wireline Inc., Kmart, Belden & Blake, and Catalyst Energy. Post-retirement, he worked for Metz at the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford.
John Stephen Kohut, age 82, of Elkland, PA passed away at his home on Sunday, October 15, 2023.
Born April 3, 1941 in Corning, NY, he was the son of the late John J. and Frances M. (Piecuch) Kohut.
John graduated from the University of Cincinnati and built his career as a Software Engineering Manager with Control Data Corporation, where he was highly regarded among his peers, upper management, and those who worked for him.
During his time in California, he was recognized for his years of service by holding the title of Chairman Emeritus of the Loaves & Fishes Family Kitchen in San Jose, CA.
BORN: Katherine Rita Joyce on August 10, 1919 in County Galway, Ireland
DIED: October 9, 2023 at St. Elizabeth Motherhouse, Allegany, NY.
DAUGHTER OF: Peter and Mary McDonnell Joyce, Dorchester, MA.
Sr. Therese entered the Franciscan Sisters of Allegany on August 14, 1940, was received into the Congregation on August 15, 1941, and professed her final vows on August 16, 1948. Committed to the Franciscan charism, Sister lived for 83 years as a devoted member of the Allegany Franciscan Sisters sharing her life in community and ministry.
Loving Wife, Mother, Grandmother, Sister
Donna M. Weatherly, 71, of 120 Abbotts Road, Lyndon, NY passed away Tuesday, October 17, 2023 at Olean General Hospital after a lengthy illness.
Born on July 31, 1952, in Buffalo, she was a daughter of Frederick and Loretta M. Lederhouse Witt, Sr. On July 5, 1975, in Scio, she married Burton J. Weatherly who survives.
Donna worked as a one-on-one Aide in multiple schools, had been a clerk at the Uni-Mart in Cuba and last was a personal care aide for the Rehabilitation Center in Olean.
“beloved companion”
Jane C. Nicholas, 70, of Shinglehouse, PA passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, October 15, 2023, in the Olean General Hospital, Olean, NY.
Born on Tuesday, December 30, 1952 in Easton, she was a daughter of Stewart and Phyllis Chamberlin Ruch.
Jane was a graduate of Bangor High School, Class of 1971, in Bangor, Pa. She was employed as a school bus driver for STA-Krise Bus Company in Bangor and also had been employed as a school bus driver for David Ebeling in Shinglehouse.
Jane loved her cats and dogs. She was an avid gardener and loved studying the Bible. Jane took care of and fed Bwana Jim’s many animals while he was away doing his shows.
Deborah L. VanAlstine, 58, of 120 Pear Road, St. Marys, PA passed away unexpectedly Sunday, October 15, 2023.
She was born December 26, 1964, in St. Marys, daughter of Donald Cunningham, who survives of St. Marys, and the late Carol Roth Cunningham. She was a lifelong resident of the area and was a graduate of St. Marys Area High School, Class of 1984. Deborah worked as a housekeeper at the Best Western Hotel.
In July of 1987, in St. Marys, Deborah married Keith A. VanAlstine, who survives.
Todd D. Muroski, 52, of Warren, PA passed away unexpectedly on October 16, 2023, in his home.
A complete obituary will be published when it’s available through the Donald E. Lewis Funeral Home Inc.
Timothy M. Johnson, 56, of Warren, PA, passed away early Tuesday morning October 17, 2023, in Warren General Hospital after an unexpected medical issue.
Friends may call on Friday, October 20, 2023, from 6 to 8 pm in the Donald E. Lewis Funeral Home Inc., 304 East St., Warren. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, October 21, 2023, at 11:00 am in Pleasant Township Social Hall, 40 Fuller Ave., Warren, PA.
A complete obituary will be published when it’s available
Patrick Stewart Fargo, 59, of Bradford, PA passed away Friday, October 13, 2023 at the Olean General Hospital, after a long illness.
Born December 28, 1963, in Bradford, he was a son of the late Bruce C. and Beverly J. (Yard) Fargo.
He was a 1982 graduate of Limestone Union Free School, where he played varsity football and was proud to wear the “88” Jersey. He also played baseball and basketball.
On March 2, 2013, in Limestone, NY, he married Patricia Ann (Dewyer) Fargo who survives.
He was employed at Bush Industries and retired as a CNC Machine Operator at W. R.Case Cutlery.
V. Carol Wilson, 88, formerly of Aiken, passed away, Saturday October 14, 2023, in Westfield.
Born December 29, 1934, in Lewis Run, she was the daughter of the late Albert and Helen (Collins) Peterson.
Carol graduated from Bradford High School in 1952 and Otterbein College in 1956 with her Bachelor of Arts degree in Education. She also served as an assistant professor at Otterbein College.
On September 21, 1957, in Westerville, OH, she married Richard Arthur Wilson who preceded her in death on November 29, 2021.
Carol taught English and Spanish in Smethport and Bradford High Schools until 1970. She was the administrator of the Hannum Memorial Rest Home from 1977-1980 and the bookkeeper for the Salvation Army until 1985.
She was a member of the Gifford United Methodist Church, the Choir director and organist. She served on the Elderberry board at the Smethport Senior Center, where she was Secretary and Treasurer. Carol also volunteered at BRMC. She enjoyed crossword puzzles, knitting and reading.
Jane C. Nicholas, 70, of Shinglehouse, PA passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, October 15, 2023, 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.
“a great storyteller that created strong connections with loved ones”
PORT ALLEGANY, Pa.—Kevin Allen Kohn, 67, of Port Allegany, PA, a former longtime resident of Smethport, passed away on Thursday, October 12, 2023, in UPMC Susquehanna Williamsport after a long illness.
Born on Friday, February 10, 1956 in Buffalo, NY, he was a son of Ernest B. Kohn and Marlene Sullivan. Kevin was raised by his grandparents, Ernest H. and Myrtle Kohn of Smethport.
As a young boy, he spent time delivering milk with his grandfather. In the summer, he spent time in Emporium with his father and stepmother, Cassie Kohn. Kevin was a graduate of Smethport Area High School, Class of 1974, where he excelled in sports. Kevin participated in the first Big 30 Football game in 1974. He spent two years at Grove City College and then went into the workforce. He had a variety of jobs but spent most of his time as an over-the-road truck driver.
Elizabeth A. “Betsy” Snyder, 62, of Roulette, PA, a lifelong resident of the area and had previously resided in Coudersport, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, October 13, 2023, in the Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio.
Born on Tuesday, April 11, 1961 in Coudersport, she was a daughter of Milton L. “Bud” and Waneta P. Perkins Snyder.
Betsy was a graduate of Coudersport High School, Class of 1980 and later in life she attended the former Olean Business Institute where she earned her Associate’s Degree. She was employed for many years at Midland Optical in Coudersport in the Quality Control department, then at Acker and Larson Attorneys at Law in Coudersport and at JV Bank in Coudersport. At the time of her passing, she was employed at Edward Jones in Coudersport where she worked for Kelly Wieder, Financial Advisor, whom she considered a dear friend.
Richard S. Houck, 86, of Smethport, PA passed away Friday (October 13, 2023) at UPMC-Hamot, Erie.
He was born February 24, 1937 in Olean, the son of George and Clare (Arto) Houck. On August 19, 1961, in St. Elizabeth Church, Smethport, he married Sylvia J. Bryson, who survives.
Rich had worked in several areas of construction over the years. He was an electrician working for the Local #1319 Union. He had also worked for Case Cutlery of Bradford.
A Funeral Service for Robert V. Howard will be celebrated in the Lynch-Radkowski Funeral Home on Saturday, October 21, 2023, at 10:30 AM, with the Rev. Ann Foor officiating. Burial will follow in Mount Pleasant Cemetery in Benezette.
Lawrence J. Nicklas, Jr., a lifelong resident of St. Marys, PA passed away on Sunday, October 15, 2023 at Penn Highlands Elk at the age of 91.
Lawrence was born on April 19, 1932 in St. Marys at 526 Chestnut Street, son of the late Lawrence Sr. and Eleanor (Simbeck) Nicklas.
He was a 1950 graduate of St. Marys Public High School. He met the late Shirley (Schreiber) Nicklas, his future wife, in 1949 at the Fox’s Skating Rink. The couple married on October 25, 1952 at the St. Mary’s Catholic Church and celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary last fall. She preceded him in death on June 4, 2023.
Smethport – Elijah Charles Thomas Bailey, infant, was still born Wednesday (October 11, 2023) at Oishei Children’s Hospital, Buffalo, NY.
He was the infant son of Thomas R. Bailey and Jennifer M. Gault.
He is survived by his father Thomas R. Bailey of Bradford and mother Jennifer M. M. Gault of Smethport
One brother: Ethan W. C. Edwards of Smethport
One sister: Brooke A. Bailey of Glenwood, NY
Maternal grandparents: Rob & Lorie Gault “G-G” of Bradford
One Aunt: Shawna Gault
One Uncle: Rob (Justina Rodgers) Gault
Cousins: Maddison, Mackenzie, and Waylon Gault, Lydia Colts, and Cadin and Abram Rogers
Little Elijah was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Thomas and Martha Bailey.
Visitation will be held on Friday, Oct. 20, 2023, from 5-7PM in the Hartle-Tarbox Funeral Homes, Inc., 2 Bank St., Smethport, where a memorial service will begin at 7PM with the Rev. Josh Haney, pastor of the First Church of the Nazarene of Bradford, officiating.
Memorials, if desired, may be made to Oishei Children’s Hospital, 818 Ellicott St., Buffalo, NY 14203. Online condolences may be made at www.hartle-tarboxfuneralhomes.com.
Arrangements are under the direction of the Hartle-Tarbox Funeral Homes, Inc., Smethport.
“Loving Husband, Father & Grandfather”
Joseph M. Champlin, 76, of Genesee Street, Olean, NY passed away at his home on Friday, October 13, 2023, surrounded by his family, following a brief battle with cancer.
Joe was born on July 19, 1947, in Rochester and was the son of Lawrence L. and Betty Geise Champlin. On July 11, 1970, at the Hillside Wesleyan Church in Olean, he married his loving wife, Nancy Helen Marsh, who survives.
Joe attended grade schools in Olean, Millport, Ellicottville, Roulette, and finally, Hinsdale Central School, where he graduated in 1966.
Dale L. Lowrie, 68, of 152 Pine Street, Wellsville, NY passed away at home on Friday, October 13, 2023.
He was born February 12, 1955, in Bath, NY, the son of the late Leroy J. and Gladys M. (Raub) Lowrie.
Dale was a 30-year resident of Oswayo, Pennsylvania, and a graduate of Oswayo Valley High School in Shinglehouse, PA. He was formerly employed at Hennigh’s Trailer Sales in Shinglehouse. In 1995 he moved to Wellsville, and was employed by K-Arcy Corporation, Benjamin Smith Company, and Giant Food Mart. Dale was a long-time resident of 269 S. Main Street, and enjoyed swimming, hiking, winter sports, outdoor activities, and maintaining his home and lawn.
Marilyn I. Veit, 84, of Port Allegany, PA passed away Monday (October 9, 2023) at UPMC-Cole, Coudersport.
She was born January 6, 1939 in Brooklyn, NY, the daughter of Clarence and Dorothea (Babcock) Gulick. On September 6, 1957, in Elkton, MD, she married Henry P. Veit, who died on June 5, 2004.
Marilyn was a graduate of Franklin K. Lane High School and was a homemaker, tending to the needs of her family.
Scott Raymond Gibson, 53, of Northwest Rd., Kane, PA died unexpectedly, Thursday, October 12, 2023, at UPMC-Hamot.
He was born October 28, 1969 in Kane to Corine Varga and the late James Gibson, and on June 7, 2008 in Kane, he married Kathleen Lindquist. On September 10, 2009, he became a father to Tyler Raymond Gibson, and then on September 9, 2011, his second son, Kellen George Gibson, was born.
Scott graduated from Kane High School in 1987. He then graduated from Gannon University with a degree in accounting. He went on to be the Controller at Clarion Sintered Metals where he would have celebrated his 30th anniversary this week.
