Jeffrey J. Gebauer, 62, of Sena Kean Manor, Smethport, PA went to heaven peacefully in his sleep at Sena Kean on Sunday morning (April 30, 2023). He was born June 15, 1960 in St. Marys, PA and raised in Emporium, PA, a son of the late Gerhard and Pauline Kassawara Gebauer.

Jeff graduated from Cameron County High School in 1978 where he was on the Raiders basketball and track team for several years.   After graduation, Jeff attended welding school in Genesee, PA.  He was employed by Ridgway Steel Fabricators until his accident in 1980.  Since that day, Jeff’s life touched many.  He now sees how the ripple effect of his life has encouraged others, especially the treasured people who helped him. Many people learned to be a strong advocate for those with disabilities by watching his mother, who was unsurpassed. 

Jeff earned certificates for computer training and enjoyed making greeting cards to sell.  After years of living in several rehabilitation facilities or with his parents, Jeff realized his dream of his own apartment in Olean, NY for 12 years. Jeff loved photography, Penn State football, Duke basketball and the Dolphins.  Most of all, Jeff loved his family. 

Jeff is survived by two sisters, Kathy Ann Gebauer, Columbus, OH; Christine Howard (James), Eldred; and a brother, Greg Gebauer (Dana), St. Marys; his nephews, Aaron Howard, Auston (Gabby) Howard, Andy (Natalie) Gebauer, Josh (Kathryn) Gebauer, greatniece, Marjorie Gebauer and his bestfriend, Scott Gearhart.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Gerhard and Pauline Kassawara Gebauer,

Jeff’s family wishes to thank, with deep appreciation, all those who helped Jeff over the years.  Many will remember his sense of humor and the nicknames he gave to those closest to him.   

There will be no visitation.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Mark Catholic Church, 235 East Fourth Street, Emporium, PA on Thursday (May 4, 2023) at 10:30 AM with Rev. Paul S. Siebert, Pastor, as Celebrant.

Burial will be at St. Mark’s Cemetery, Emporium. In memory of Jeff, donations may be sent to the Cameron County Ambulance Service, Emporium or Intandem (the former Rehabilitation Center), Olean, NY 

Online Condolences may be placed at www.BarnettFuneralHome.net

BARNETT FUNERAL HOME, Inc. entrusted with arrangements.