William M. Deems, 81, of Limestone, NY, passed away on Wednesday, January 8, 2025 at the Olean General Hospital, Olean, NY.
He was born on July 6, 1943 in Kane, the son of the late Francis and Verna “Susie” Agens Deems.
ROULETTE, PA—Michael P. “Mike” Milford, 56, of Roulette, passed away on Wednesday, January 8, 2025, in Coudersport, after suffering injuries while at work.
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.
Gertrude Hawk Candy Bar Sale: The library is selling Gertrude Hawk candy bars in various flavors. Stop at the library or Sprout’s Drug Store and get some today!
Little Caesars Fundraiser: The library will have another Little Caesars Pizza Kit Fundraiser from Tuesday, January 14th – Thursday, February 13th just in time for the Superbowl! Place orders online and have the kits delivered right to your door, or order a meal kit and pick it up at a local Little Caesars! Watch our website and Facebook page for more information at the start of the fundraiser.
Teens’ Night: Please join us on Tuesday, January 7th at 5:30 pm to socialize and play games! Bring your favorite board games, card games, and your friends. This program is for ages 12-18.
Diamond Art Class: Join us at the library on Saturday, January 18th at 1:00 pm for a Diamond Art Class! You will decorate and take home a compact mirror in this class. All supplies are provided, and limited seating is available! Please call or stop by the library to sign up! 814-697-6691.
Students in the Early Childhood shop at the Seneca Highlands Career and Technical Center lent a hand to the Port Allegany Rotary Club when the club hosted their annual Christmas Party for PAES students with special needs. In preparing for the event, the class wrapped gifts to be given by club members to the children. A few days later, the class attended the weekly Rotary meeting, held at the local Moose Lodge, and assisted the Rotarians in serving lunch and helping Santa hand out gifts. The Early Childhood class is pictured with their teacher, Kim Mooney (seated) and CTC Director, Jim Young. Mr. Young is also the president of the local Rotary Club.
Six Port Allegany High School students traveled to Coudersport High School to participate in a day-long Chorus Festival. The IU9 Chorus Fest gave students, 150 in total, an opportunity to work with directors Steve Luxbacher from Oil City High School and Daniel Sensenig from Wellsboro High School. A performance was held that evening at the school. Representing Port Allegany were (pictured left to right) Lena Skinner, Grace Finn, Brielle Kaple, Tessa Evens, Kaydence Beaver and Bailey Looyd. The students were accompanied by high school music instructor, Camille Baptiste.
Frederick L. Stives, Jr. Husband, Father, Grandfather, Friend
Frederick L. Stives, Jr., 79, of 85 Wellsville Street, Bolivar, passed away Monday, January 6, 2025 after a short illness.
Born on December 31, 1945, in Wellsville, he was the son of Frederick and Beulah Cole Stives, Sr. On October 14, 2006, at the Bolivar Country Club he married the former Ella M. Slocum, who survives.
Fred was a graduate of Bolivar Central School Class of 1964. While in high school he was a three sport athlete and played football one season with a broken arm. He attended Alfred Tech. He proudly served in the United States Army from 1965 to 1967.
When he returned to Bolivar he went to work for the former Clark Brothers in Olean holding various positions from March 8, 1965 until his retirement on December 31, 2008.
Fred was active in the Bolivar Community for many years. He was a life member and past commander of the Kenyon Andrus American Legion Post 772, was a former Village of Bolivar Patrolman and Village of Bolivar Town Justice. He was also a past commander of the Allegany County American Legion, served as the 8th District Vice Commander of the American Legion, was past Chief of the Bolivar Fire Department, and Bolivar Rescue Squad.
Robert E. Dennis: Beloved Son, Brother, Uncle
Robert E. Dennis, 63, of 8751 County Route 1, Clarksville, passed away Sunday, January 5, 2025 at Erie County Medical Center after a short illness.
Born on January 15, 1961, in Cuba, he was a son of Ronald E. and Janice E. Edwards Dennis.
Robert was a graduate of Richburg Central School and Alfred State College where he received an Associate’s degree in Animal Husbandry.
Robert went on to serve as Assistant Dairy Herdsman for the Alfred State College Farm during the 1980’s through the mid 1990’s. It was also during that time, that he and his brother Raymond also operated a dairy farm in Angelica, New York. They were proud to have built up a very nice herd of Guernsey cattle and also produced maple syrup. Robert enjoyed showing his cattle at the County and State fairs, and loved attending several other county fairs throughout Western New York and Pennsylvania.
Robert finished out his career as a groundskeeper for SUNY Geneseo and then spent several years serving the Amish Community as a driver, where he developed many long-lasting friendships.
To say the least, Robert was a man of many hobbies. He enjoyed going to all types of auctions, especially those with antiques and collectibles. He loved having friends over for dinner in which he cooked on his wood cookstove, and would spend time explaining the history of his collectibles and furnishings while he hand-cranked homemade ice cream for dessert.
Kenneth W. Rall, 75, of Wellsboro, passed away at his home Monday January 6, 2025. He was born June 22, 1949, in Williamsport, to Arthur and Arlene “Ruth” (Baysore) Rall. He graduated from Hughesville High School, served in the US Air Force, and married Jacqueline “Jackie” Medori. Ken worked as a machinist at the Dresser Foundry. He was an avid fisherman.
Kenneth is survived by two daughters: Pauline Medori of Harrisburg, and Angie Lattanzio of Reading; three grandchildren: Kristi, Kelli, and Kevin; two brothers: Robert (Deb) Rall of Westfield, and William (Amy) Rall of Tioga; and three sisters: Sandra Burdick of Middlebury Center, Linda (Jay) Lamphere of Monroeton, PA, and Jean Huck of Fayette, TN. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, and two sisters: Mary Holmes and Sherry Frisch.
In accordance with his wishes, the Tussey-Mosher Funeral Home 139 Main Street Wellsboro, PA 16901 has been entrusted with his arrangements, and there will be no public services. To share a memory or condolence with his family, visit www.tusseymosher.com.
John W. Brocious, age 64, of Wellsboro, PA, died on Tuesday, January 7, 2025.
He was born on January 11, 1960 in Wellsboro, PA a son of the late Quay E. Brocious, Sr. and Stella M. (Campbell) Brocious. John worked for General Dynamics, Groton, CT for many years and other employers since then. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, woodworking, painting, making candles and many more crafts.
Interested in learning to make maple syrup from start to finish? Penn State Extension will hold a no-cost workshop on identifying and tapping maple trees, collecting sap, and cooking it into syrup using beginner-friendly techniques. Both in-person and virtual options are available.
The “Getting Started in Maple Syrup” webinar will occur from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Jan. 29. The in-person version will take place from 10 a.m. to noon Feb. 1, at Penn State Extension’s Potter County office, 1 N. Main St., Room 216, Coudersport.
The program is aimed at individuals considering making maple syrup for the first time, beginner maple syrup producers, and members of the public interested in learning about maple syrup production.
Led by Scott Weikert, forest resources extension educator, the program will cover:
The community is invited to join the congregation of the Evangelical Covenant Church as they celebrate their history in Port Allegany.. It’s been 125 years from Swedish immigrants to modern America with the same message of faith, hope and commitment to Christ. An Open House will be held from 12:15 – 2 p.m. on February 9 at the church located at 67 Church Street. Light refreshments will be served. Pictured are Pastor J.T, Madison and Netra Baker, Committee Chairperson. Other members of the committee include Sara Bishel, Linda Niles, Jess Klein and Evelyn Guncheon.
(McKean County, Pennsylvania: January 9, 2025): District Attorney Stephanie Vettenburg-Shaffer honors Officers on Law Enforcement Appreciation Day, a day that allows us to honor the officers who take on the responsibility of enforcing the law and protecting their residents: “Our Officers take exceptional risks to ensure that we are safe from harm. And they must take these risks on a moment’s notice. While their day may start out as peaceful and orderly, it too often flips to violence and chaos. Many of our McKean County neighbors have taken the pledge to accept this risk and so have many others who live elsewhere but come to McKean County to protect us.
The uncertainty they face is challenging. But it is the certainty that they will face violence more days than not- but nonetheless report for duty-that makes them heroes. Some of them have faced violence during a routine traffic stop that turned deadly. Some of them have succumbed to the abuse their bodies have suffered merely from performing their jobs. And some have been murdered merely for putting on their uniform without regard to the human beings they are or the families they leave behind. Yet these Officers respond to every call that comes in during their shift as if they have put this knowledge out of their minds.
It is our privilege to work with these officers. We look at the legacies of Patrolman Steven Jerman, Sergeant David Distrola, Lt. Jeff Shade and Trooper Jay Rougeau with honor and which we hold in the highest place of esteem. Today and every day we remember and honor these gentlemen. And we thank and honor those that continue to take these risks for our security. Thank you ladies and gentlemen. We honor all law enforcement officers – McKean County Detectives’ Bureau & K9 Unit, McKean County Drug Task Force, Bradford City Police & K9 Unit, Pennsylvania State Police, Bradford Township Police, Foster Township Police, University of Pittsburgh at Bradford Police, Otto Police, Smethport Borough Police, Port Allegany Police, Kane Borough Police, Sheriff’s Department, Game Commission, Fish and Boat Commission, U.S. Marshalls, , McKean County 911, FCI-McKean, SCI-Forest, McKean County Jail, Potter County Jail, Warren County Jail, McKean County Juvenile and Adult Probation, State Parole and the families of our Officers. These officers are family, friends and heroes. God bless our Officers and their families. On behalf of the McKean County District Attorney’s Office, thank you”. – Stephanie L. Vettenburg-Shaffer, District Attorney
(Pennsylvania) – Mother Nature might be saying it’s winter, but the American Cancer Society is helping you to think spring with the return of Daffodil Days! This colorful first flower of spring represents a campaign that brings hope to cancer patients, their caregivers, and families, while providing much-needed funding to support the groundbreaking research, programs, and services of the American Cancer Society.
Clinton James Baker (Jim), formerly of Wellsboro, PA and Port Allegany, PA, passed away at the UPMC Hospital, Carlisle, PA, with his wife by his side, on January 6, 2025.
Jim was born November 14, 1946 in Bradford, PA, the son of the late Clinton L. and Naomi Jamieson Baker. On December 16, 1966, he married the love of his life Darlene Anderson, who survives. He and Darlene went to her senior prom together in 1965 at Port Allegany High School.
Roman Tuma, M.D.
UPMC Infectious Disease
During cold and flu season, it can be challenging to differentiate illnesses like the common cold, flu, COVID-19, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and norovirus. Each show distinct symptoms, modes of transmission, and treatment approaches. Knowing what you’re dealing with can help you make informed decisions about care and prevention.
The Common Cold
Symptoms: Runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, sneezing, mild cough, mild fatigue, possible low-grade fever.
Roger Dale Tingue, 67, of 3 Bayberry Court, Bradford, passed away, Friday, January 3, 2025, surrounded by his loving family at his home.
Born February 20, 1957, Springville NY, he was the son of the late Clarence “Bub” Tingue and Mary (Hess) Tingue-May.
He was raised in West Valley NY and graduated from West Valley High School in 1975.
Evelyn L. Beers, 93, a resident of Elk Haven Nursing Home and formerly of Elk Towers, St. Marys, passed away on Friday, January 3, 2025, following a lengthy illness.
She was born on December 25, 1931 in Daguscahonda, a daughter of the late Burton and Lillie Wolff Himes.
She was married to Leo Zuchowski, who preceded her in death. She then married Gerald “Bud” Nichols, who also preceded her in death.
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Michael David “Dunsy” Dunsmore, who left us on January 3, 2025, at his home in Bolivar, NY. He was 57 years old.
He was born on October 9, 1967 in Ithaca, NY and spent his childhood in Shinglehouse, PA and Bolivar, NY. Mike graduated from Bolivar Central School in 1986, where he excelled in athletics, making his mark as an outstanding wrestler, football player, and baseball player. His competitive spirit and love for sports carried through his life, and his time at BCS fostered lifelong friendships and memories.
Sarah Elizabeth Dush Plyler Wonderling, 94, of Ridgway, passed away on Saturday, January 4, 2025, at Elk Haven Nursing Home.
She was born on March 16, 1930, in Ridgway, a daughter of the late Lester and Anna Mae Hadden Dush.
In 1949, she married the late Samuel Plyler Sr., who preceded her in death in 1966, and had 3 children: Samuel Plyler Jr. and his wife Carol, Elizabeth Libby McKinny and her husband Michael, and Paul Plyler and his wife Barb.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is issuing a public health alert due to concerns of frozen, raw ground beef products that may be contaminated with foreign material, specifically hard plastic and metal.
Juanita Vining ELDER, 64, of Whitesville, NY, passed peacefully on December 27, 2024, with her devoted husband, Mark, by her side.
Born June 22, 1960, in New Orleans, LA, she was the daughter of Raymond and Eula Mitchell Vining and the youngest of their five children. She spent most of her early years making cherished, life-long memories with her cousins, siblings, and some very dear friends that she considered family. On May 15, 1982, in Bayou L’Orurse, LA, she married Mark E. Elder, who survives. They moved to Whitesville, NY, where they raised their two daughters.
She was well known for her contagious laughter, immeasurable love, and incredible singing voice. For many years, she shared in leading the worship service at Ellisburg Church, where she also led the youth group. When not singing in church, she delivered singing telegrams as the Cowabunga Cavewoman to friends, complete with original poems she had written. Juanita loved her children with her whole heart and was a second mom to any child that entered her home. Her most cherished role by far was that of Grammy to her adoring granddaughters, with whom she loved to exploring nature. She touched countless lives with her kindness, creativity, and love, and will be dearly missed.
Surviving besides her husband, Mark, are: daughters, Julia Elder (Kevin Stephens) and Leah Kalpin (Justin Penna); granddaughters, Natalie Kalpin and Lyla Kalpin; three siblings, Deloris Gilchrist, Evy Vining (Amy), and Herbert Vining (Vickie); many nieces, nephews, and cousins; her mother-in-law, Dortha Caylor; and brother-in-law, Scott Elder.
In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by a brother, Raymond Vining Jr.; son-in-law, Nicholas Kalpin; and dear cousin, Dodie Duke.
Friends may call at Ellisburg Union Wesleyan Church, 2005 Ellisburg Road, Genesee, PA on Saturday, January 11, 2025 from 10:00 – 11:00 AM, with a Memorial Service following at 11:00 AM. Rev. Roy Ward and Rev. Barbara Mosher will co-officiate.
Juanita will be laid to rest with her parents in Morgan City, LA. Memorials may be made to Ellisburg Union Wesleyan Church, 1020 Rag Hill Road, Genesee, PA 16923 or a charity of the donor’s choice. Arrangements are under the direction of Olney-Foust Funeral Homes & Crematory, Ulysses, PA. Online condolences may be expressed at www.olneyfoust.com.
Carl Joseph Luppino
Mass of Christian Burial for Carl Joseph Luppino will be held at 11:00 AM on Thursday, January 9, 2025, in St. Joseph R.C. Church, 600 Pennsylvania Ave. W. Warren, PA. To view a complete obituary please visit www.lewisfuneralhomeinc.com.
