Obituaries

Belmont, NY – Carl J. Laici Sr, 57, of Schuyler Street, passed away on Monday, May 6, 2024, after a brief illness. He was born December 6, 1966, in Wellsville, the son of the late Joseph C. and Elizabeth A. (Blue) Laici.

Carl was raised in Wellsville. In 1984 he enlisted during the Gulf War with the United State Army and served as a Jumper. Upon his honorable discharge in 1992 he returned to Allegany County and followed in his mother’s footsteps, finding his career in healthcare working for Jan and Bev’s until his retirement; he also previously worked in construction. Outside of his employment, he was a former member of Wellsville’s Fire and Rescue Squads.

John “Jay” Collins Jr. passed away at his home on Monday, May 6, 2024, in Wellsboro, PA, at the age of 61.

Jay was born on March 13, 1963 in Wellsboro, PA. He grew up in Galeton and was a graduate of Galeton Area High School in 1981. From there, he went on to study hospitality management. His career in hospitality took him to many different places, including Pittsburgh, PA, Washington, DC, and Hershey, PA. In 2004, he returned home to Galeton to care for his mother, Margaret until her passing in 2021. 

Everyone who knew Jay would describe him as the “life of the party.” With his quick wit and great sense of humor, he always knew what to say to make everyone laugh. Jay was an excellent cook, and loved to host holiday dinners and picnics for his family and friends. He took great pride in the appearance of his home, and everyone admired his keen eye for decorating – as well as his personal style. In his free time, Jay enjoyed listening to music, going on weekend trips to Corning, and spending time with his coworkers who became dear friends.

David M. Burton, 66, of 3131 State Park Avenue, Salamanca, NY, passed away Saturday, May 4, 2024, at Olean General Hospital. 

David was born December 29, 1957, in Olean NY, he was a son of the late Kenneth W. and Geraldine (Eidson) Burton. He was a 1976 graduate of Limestone High School.

On December 16, 1978, he married Debra Lynn (Jackson) Burton who survives.

Dave was formerly employed at Dresser Rand as a Machinist, and Elliott Rolls Royce. Prior to his retirement he was employed at Dresser Siemens in Houston TX.

He was a member of the Limestone Sportsman’s Club. He enjoyed golfing, gardening, and his two dogs, Kiya and Duke.

Michael T. “Reesey” Reese, 53, of 89 Garlock Hollow, Bradford, passed away Monday, May 6, 2024, at his residence. 

Born October 11, 1970, in Bradford, he was the son of Gerald “Jerry” and Judith “Judy” (Milks) Reese. He was a 1989 graduate of Bradford High School.

Reesey was employed at Tasta Pizza for over 20 years, and presently worked as Manager at Napoli Pizza. He also helped his father at the Kinzua Vending Company and Bradford Meat and Provisions.  

He enjoyed golfing at Pine Acres Country Club, bowling at Byllye Lanes, and watching the Buffalo Bills.

Patricia Lynn DURGAN, 57, of Wellsville, NY, died Sunday, May 5, 2024 in her home. 

Born February 15, 1967, in Sodus, she was  daughter of Edwin and Muriel Olmstead Durgan.  A graduate of Wellsville High School, she attended BOCES for cosmetology.  She was previously the manager at Dollar General in Wellsville. 

Patricia loved her grandchildren and was a kind and giving person.  

David L. Duck, 78, of Greeves St. in Kane, PA passed away Sunday morning (May 5) at his residence.  Born July 1, 1945 in Erie, he is the son of the late William and Violet (Smith) Duck.  On Dec. 29, 1976 in Kane he married Theresa Latshaw, who survives.

Mr. Duck had worked various jobs throughout his career, including working at Holgate in Kane and Jamesway in Warren.  He also did handyman work in and around Kane.  He was a member of the Kane Eagles Club AERIE # 307 and the Kane VFW Lodge #1132.  He had also served in the Army National Guard for 12 years.

Josephine “Peppy” Orozin Bradley, 92, of James City, PA passed away on May 5, 2024, surrounded by her loved ones, during her recent residence at The Lutheran Home at Kane.

Born on November 17, 1931 in Highland, PA, she was the daughter of Valentin Orozin and Ann (Mischic) Castellani.

Peppy was a 1949 graduate of the Kane Area High School and was a life-long member of the St. Callistus Roman Catholic Church of Kane. On October 4, 1952 she married John Bradley Sr. who preceded her in death on July 13, 2001.

Peppy was an avid reader. She enjoyed the search for a good book to read, listening to button-box polkas, and having lunch with her friends.

John E. Wheeler, 81, of Wellsboro, PA passed away early Sunday, May 5, 2024, at his home surrounded by family. 

He was born June 15, 1942, in Elmira, NY to John W. and Edith (Jelliff) Wheeler.  He graduated from Wellsboro High School in the class of 1961.  On September 11, 1965 he married Kathleen Lubertowicz with whom he shared 58 years of marriage. 

He served in the US Army National Guard.  John started working for the Wellsboro Police department in 1971, and retired as chief in 2001, served on the Wellsboro Council, and from 2014 to present served as the mayor of Wellsboro.  John was also a member of the Wellsboro Fire and Ambulance for fifty years.  He was a member of St. Peter’s Catholic Church, the Wellsboro Men’s Chorus, Wellsboro Lions Club, Wellsboro Moose and the Fraternal Order of Police.  John enjoyed the outdoors – camping, fishing and hunting, and he was an accomplished woodworker.

Crieg S. Johnson, 58, of Meadville PA, passed away on Saturday, May 4 at Twin Lakes Nursing Home after
battling an 8 year illness, scleroderma.

Born on October 7, 1965, he was the son to James and Sandra (Gier) Johnson.

Crieg was a graduate of Ridgway High School, where he later went on to serve in the United States Marine Corps. After serving for 4 years, he dedicated the rest of his career to being a lineman. He worked as a lineman at First Energy from 1992-2021. Crieg enjoyed spending time at his hunting cabin where he spent much of his time hunting deer and turkey. He spent time riding his beloved Harley Davidson with his friends.

In addition to his parents, Crieg is survived by his daughter Marissa Johnson of Zelienople PA, his
siblings, Kevin Johnson of Hubert, NC and Kimberly O’Rourke of Du Bois PA; his nieces and nephews,
Shelby (Tony) Aquilina of Alfred NY, Kaitlyn (Mark) Ahearn of Canisteo NY, and Joesph Johnson of
Scottsdale AZ; and great nephews and niece, Beau, Elden, and Meredith.

Funeral Services for Crieg Johnson will be held privately by the family.

Burial will be at St. Leo Cemetery in Ridgway.

Krise Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 130 Center Street, Ridgway, PA 15853 is handling the arrangements and online condolences may be offered to the family at www.krisefuneralhome.com

Barbara A. “Barb” Slike, 53, passed away Saturday, May 4, 2024, at Roswell Park Cancer Institute Center after a long fight with cancer.  

Funeral arrangements are incomplete and under the direction of the Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes Inc.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.hollenbeckcahill.com

Karen Marie (Kriz) Benedict, 69, from Bradford, PA peacefully departed on Saturday, May 4, 2024, in the comfort of her own home.

Born on January 26, 1955, in Bradford, she was the cherished daughter of George Kriz and Elnora Ammons Kriz-Morgan. She graduated from Limestone High School in 1973.
 
On May 7, 1977, at St. Patrick’s Church in Limestone, NY, she married her devoted partner of 47 years, William M. Benedict, who continues to hold her close in his heart.

Karen lovingly cared for her four children and spent many years working as a self-taught seamstress, dressmaker, quilter, and crafter. She diligently managed the finances for her husband’s business and lent her expertise to organizing estate sales for members of the community.

A devout Catholic her entire life, she recently enjoyed participating in the St. Francis Bell Choir and formerly served as president of the Catholic Girls Club of Our Mother of Perpetual Help Church in Lewis Run. She spent countless hours volunteering for St. Bernard and Central Christian schools and supervising many fish dinners and pancake breakfasts for the church community. 

Additionally, Karen took pleasure in playing bridge and hosting bridge club gatherings. She enjoyed spending time with her husband on home renovation projects, attending car and tractor shows, and exploring antique shops and flea markets.

Brian E. Lowry

Brian E. Lowry, 69 of 185 Olive Street, Bolivar, NY passed away Monday, May 6, 2024 at Highland Park Rehabilitation and Nursing Center after a brief illness.

Born on August 8, 1954, in Islip, New York, he was a son of Robert and Loretto Ann McEvoy Lowry.  On July 23, 2008, in Bolivar, he met the former Peggy A. Nolan who survives and they were just recently married on April 17, 2024.

Brian was a graduate of Sayville High School.  He then enlisted in the United States Army serving from 1975-79.  He had worked in Air Conditioning, was a painter for 25 years, and when he relocated to Western New York he became a truck driver, driving for different companies until his retirement from Strong Trucking in Tunkhannock, Pennsylvania.

He was a member and had been a bartender for the Kenyon Andrus Post 772 American Legion, Bolivar.  He loved golfing, was a football fan with his favorite team being the Minnesota Vikings, loved spending time with his grandchildren, and enjoyed practical jokes and making people laugh.

Floyd W. GEIGER, 92, of Andrews Settlement, PA, died Monday, October 30, 2023.

A gathering to celebrate Floyd’s life will be held Saturday, May 11, 2024 from 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM at American Legion Potter Post #192, Two Buffalo Street, Coudersport, PA.  Military Rites will be accorded by members of the Potter County Honor Guard.  Memorials may be made to Teacher’s Pet Rescue, 19 Blackberry Lane, Coudersport, PA 16915.  

Cremation was at OLNEY-FOUST Private Crematory, Ulysses, PA.  Online condolences may be expressed at www.olneyfoust.com.

Ronald C. Zetwick, 76, of Smethport, PA passed away unexpectedly Thursday (May 2, 2024) at his home.

He was born January 13, 1948 in Port Allegany, the son of Gerald and Achsah (Clark) Zetwick. On June 13, 1970, in Emporium, PA, he married Claudette M. Uber, who passed away on November 22, 1995. He then married Sherry  L. Weismiller, who died on December 4, 2019.

Ron was a Smethport High School graduate and attended Vale Technical Institute in Blairsville, PA for autobody repair.  During that time, he was drafted into the U.S. Army and served in Vietnam from 1968 to 1970.

Ron worked at GKN of Emporium for many years, retiring in 2011, as maintenance supervisor.  He also had his own autobody shop.

Smethport – Ronald E. Appleby, 78, of Port Allegany, PA passed away Thursday (May 2, 2024) at Lakeview Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center, Smethport.

He was born February 15, 1946 in Port Allegany, PA, the son of Herbert, Sr. and Alice (Stark) Appleby.

Mr. Appleby was a 1964 graduate of Otto-Eldred High School.

He served in the U.S. Army during Vietnam.  Ron was a furrier in the area of Turtlepoint and Eldred for many years.

Ron loved the outdoors and was an avid hunter, fisherman and loved digging Ginseng and buying it from his loyal customers. His favorite thing was just spending time at the Fur House. He also played softball for many years. He was a lifetime Dallas Cowboy fan.

He is survived by:

Caroline S. Smith, 58, of Smethport, PA passed away Thursday (May 2, 2024) at her residence.

On March 14, 1966, a Yankees fan was born, named Caroline Sakin to her parents Edna and Howard Sakin of Scarsdale, NY.  Her love for the Yankees permeated most every aspect of her life.  So, when Caroline met Kent W. Smith, while attending Mitchell College in New London, CT, it was only natural that one of their first dates was to see the Yankees play at Yankee Stadium.   On the way, they got lost, and ended up in the wrong section of the bleachers.  Suddenly, there was a great commotion and Caroline and Kent realized that a ball — a home run ball — was coming right their way!  It was Ricky Henderson’s 32nd lead-off home run ball and Kent picked it up as they made their way to their seat.  It was the beginning of a long and happy relationship.  They celebrated their 30th anniversary in March this year.

Caroline and Kent dated 9 years before marrying on 3/5/1994 in Scarsdale, NY.  They settled in Hillsdale, NJ, where they frequently had friends over for get together.  Caroline worked at a day care and later at Cherry Lawn Farmers Market.  They spent their evenings watching the Yankees every chance they could.  In 2008, Caroline fulfilled a dream by watching the World Series with Yogi Berra and meeting him in person.

Ted A. Mackey, 80, of 822 Bolivar Drive, Bradford, PA passed away Tuesday, April 30, 2024, at the Pavillion @ BRMC, with his loving daughters by his side.

Born August 5, 1943, in Bradford, he was a son of the late Arthur H. and Lucy E. (Himes) Mackey. He was a 1962  graduate of Bradford High School.

Ted was employed as a machinist at Dresser Manufacturing in Bradford for over 37 years, he retired in 2012.

Alice J. “A.J.” Stiles              

COUDERSPORT, PA—Alice J. “A.J.” Stiles, 84, a lifelong resident of Coudersport, passed away with her loving family by her side on Thursday, May 2, 2024, in UPMC Cole, Coudersport, after a short 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.

Ruth E. Irwin, 100, a resident of the Lutheran Home at Kane and formerly of 959 Hickory Road, St. Marys, PA passed away Saturday, May 4, 2024, at the Lutheran Home.

She was born July 8, 1923, in St. Marys, daughter of the late Gregory and Margaret Nissel Schlimm.  She was a graduate of Central Catholic High School, Class of 1941.  Ruth went on to earn her nursing degree and was a devoted nurse throughout her lifetime.

On September 19, 1970, in St. Catherine’s Church in Martinez, CA, Ruth married the late John J. Irwin, who preceded her in death on May 16, 2012.  She and John made their homes in Buffalo and California before moving back to St. Marys in 2002. 

David A. KINNICUTT, 62, of Wellsville, NY, died Monday, April 29, 2024 in his home.  

Born June 20, 1961, in Rome, he was the son of Donald and Cora Jackson Kinnicutt.  He was a graduate of Scio Central School and attended Alfred State College. 

He was employed as a truck driver by numerous companies.  David enjoyed riding his motorcycle and spending time with his family.  

Smethport – Ronald C. Zetwick, 76, of Smethport, PA passed away suddenly Thursday (May 2, 2024) at his home.

Arrangements are incomplete and will be announced by the Hartle-Tarbox Funeral Homes, Inc., Smethport.

Jay E. Wolfer:  Loving Husband, Father, Brother

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–Caroline S. Smith, 58, of Smethport, PA passed away Thursday, May 2, 2024 at home.

Arrangements are incomplete and will be announced by Hartle-Tarbox Funeral Homes, Inc., Smethport.

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.

Memorial Contributions may be made to benefit Lane at Lukas A. “Luke” Slosser, 23, http://Lukas A. “Luke” Slosser, 23,

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 2^nd 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.