Dusenbury announces Re-election Bid for Potter County Coroner
Shinglehouse, PA—Kevin J. Dusenbury of Shinglehouse, PA, is announcing his candidacy for re-election for Potter County Coroner.
Dusenbury is a longtime resident of Shinglehouse. He holds an Associate’s Degree in Mortuary Science from Hudson Valley Community College in Troy, NY. He is a licensed funeral director and embalmer, who along with his wife, Patty, own and operate the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home in Shinglehouse since 1984.
His mortuary education and many years of being, first a Deputy Coroner and then Coroner since 1994, give him the knowledge and experience to serve not only the deceased but the families left behind. The Coroner’s Office and it’s Coroner are a medicolegal death investigator charged with the investigation of traumatic, suspicious, or unexpected deaths. The Office of the Coroner applies principles of both medicine and the law in the course of the investigation which ultimately determines a cause and manner of death for the person who has died. Dusenbury has investigated more than 4000 deaths since he began his career as Coroner in 1984. He has handled every imaginable death, from unexpected natural deaths, vehicle accidents, plane crashes, suicide, fire deaths, drownings, and homicides.
Dusenbury, who considers himself a fiscal conservative, has always given back (long before it was politically the “right thing to do”). Approximately $85,000.00 in grants have been received over the years for his office due 100% from the work his wife, Patricia, does in her position of Chief Deputy Coroner, a position she has never been paid to serve in.
Dusenbury has several Deputy Coroners who he said are wonderful, caring and ethical people…they all have backgrounds in either law enforcement or emergency medicine and fire service. Dusenbury said, “our deputies are the best professionals who along with myself and my wife respond to some of the most horrific death scenes one could imagine. The Office of the Coroner and it’s staff must possess physical strength, character, ethics and a heart and mind that can feel and sympathize with grieving family members on likely the worst day of their lives”.
Through many years of service, Kevin has made many connections and friendships with people he may have never known if not for them loosing a loved one and his office being there to help. From sitting in the hospital for hours while a family drives from their home to be told their child has passed away. To catch a devastated loved one who collapses in front of you when you go to their home to compassionately tell them there has been a crash and sadly their loved one has passed.
Kevin stated that a great deal of time and dedication is required to serve the citizens and visitors of Potter County who face the unimaginable loss of a love one.
Along with his daily duties, he has for years made himself, his deputies, and his vehicles available to any school who has requested a Prom Promise presentation which depicts the horrors of drinking and driving, with the students playing the roles of victims, parents, and the drivers of the vehicles in the mock accident (complete with wrecked vehicles, fire and ambulance personnel, local Police and the State Police). Dusenbury states, “our goal is to prevent tragedies by stark demonstrations of the dangers of drinking and driving”.
Fire prevention has been another cause Kevin is dedicated to spreading the word on, reminding people to check smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors, checking chimneys, furnaces, and wood stoves, etc. He said, “I have pronounced friends who have died from malfunctioning gas heaters that leaked deadly carbon monoxide. There is nothing sadder than going into a home where a fire death occurred only to find a smoke alarm that has no batteries in it”.
Another program Dusenbury brought to Potter County is “Child Death Review”. Along with other county officials, Human Services, and physicians examine the deaths of children occurring in Potter County. Death certificates are confidentially reviewed, medical records are examined, and educators and clergy are asked, “what could have been done to prevent this death?”. The title of this state/county committee would be better called Child Death Prevention. The bottom line end result is preventing tragedies in the hope we never have to review another child death.
Dusenbury has always been happy to share his Coroner’s office duties and his experiences with students at career day at local schools. He has also served on Suicide Prevention committees. In the days before digital publications showing the dangers of underage alcohol use, he delivered hundreds of posters he obtained fro the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board. “I would make trips to all our schools as new posters and prevention publications became available”.
One of the saddest things that goes beyond the death of the person I am called to investigate is seeing hurting adults and most especially hurting children. “I’ve been in homes where children and elderly folks are living without the things you and I take for granted. I would go home and wonder what can I do to make those children’s lives a little better, a little brighter. I had heard of a gift program that a funeral home had started where people could bring in new, unwrapped gifts to the funeral home in memory of loved ones. Those items were then distributed by a Toys 4 Tots program in that community. I reached out to a dear friend of ours, Alice Reese, who along with others had started the Christmas House in Coudersport. I asked Alice, who knew the needs of our area well, especially at our schools, if it was possible that we help the Christmas House in this way. We launched our “Gift of Memory” program which just recently marked our 24th year of collecting toys, toiletries, etc. for infants to teens.”
Kevin is a member of the Pennsylvania State Coroner’s Association, the Pennsylvania Funeral Director’s Association, has previously served and currently serves on several committees. He is a life member of the Shinglehouse Volunteer Fire Department and is a former EMT.
The continued support from the community is greatly appreciated. Please visit, like and share my Facebook page, Kevin Dusenbury Potter County Coroner.
Please vote for Kevin Dusenbury, Potter County Coroner, for re-election on Tuesday, May 20, 2025. Thank you!!!
Rew, Smethport, And, Bradford Twp. Responded To A Fire Sunday Night
Sunday night just before 11 pm, station 8 and station 2 were sent to Bordel Road for a structure fire. First arriving units requested a second alarm. Station 15 was to stand by at station 8. While en-route Squad 15-2 was upgraded to the scene. Station 15 crew did interior operations. A crew from station 3, that was on stand-by at station 2, was also requested to the scene. Tanker from stations 2,6,7,8, and 9 shuttled water to the scene. Station 11 supplied air. Penelec, BT and FT road crews also assisted. Squad 15-2 was back in quarters at 0519 hrs. Station 8 remained on scene until 0800 hrs. Original Post HERE
Fred Norman Highhouse, 85, of Starbrick, PA
Fred Highhouse
Fred Norman Highhouse, 85, of Starbrick, PA., died peacefully with his family at his bedside, Saturday morning, January 25, 2025, at his home.
He was born September 7, 1939, in Warren, PA. He was the son of Norman and Helen Betts Highhouse. He was originally from Sheffield, PA., and was a 1957 graduate of Sheffield High School. He served with the United States Navy from 1958 to 1962, was honorably discharged with the rank of RD2. He was employed for 30 years as a foreman with Betts Industries, retiring in 2001. He loved the Lord and shared his faith in Jesus Christ. He loved teaching Sunday School and preaching the word of God. He was a lay preacher for 40 years in various churches throughout the county. He served at Emmanuel Baptist Church for 40 years. He was a member who attended and preached at Starbrick Community Church. He has gone to be with his Savior and family. He invited anyone who has not given their hearts and lives to Jesus to take this opportunity to do so now. He will be missed, but we have that blessed hope of seeing him in heaven someday.
Dorothy Tannler Culbertson, 100, of Warren, PA
Dorothy Culbertson
Dorothy Tannler Culbertson, 100, of Warren, PA. died Thursday morning, January 23, 2025, at the Rouse Home, Youngsville, PA.
She was born August 29, 1924, in Warren, PA. Dorothy was the daughter of John Walter and Rachel Lynn Greer Tannler. She was a former resident of Kinzua for 14 years, and a lifelong Warren area resident. Dorothy was a 1942 graduate of Warren High School. She was employed with the former G.C. Murphy Company, Solar Electric and retired after 29 years employment with New Process Company. She was a member of Grace United Methodist Church, Warren Senior Center. She enjoyed playing bingo, completing crossword puzzles, watching golf, or any sporting events. She was an avid reader of mysteries. Dorothy loved to watch her favorite television program, the Golden Girls and play noodle ballon game, especially with all her grandchildren. She raised 4 children on her own, and is remembered as the most loving mother, grandmother, great grandmother, great-great grandmother and friend.
Susan J. Saunders, 64, of 70 Olean Street, Bolivar, NY.
Susan J. Saunders: Beloved Wife, Mother, Grandmother, Sister
Susan J. Saunders, 64, of 70 Olean Street, Bolivar, passed away Saturday, January 25, 2025 at Olean General Hospital after a short illness.
Born on July 22, 1960, in Olean, she was a daughter of Robert and Gene (Colter) Doane. On December 2, 1978, in San Antonio, Texas, she married Donald “Andy” Saunders who predeceased her on December 31, 2021.
Susan was a graduate of Bolivar Central School Class. She was a proud Bulldog.
She was a loving wife and mother to her children, dedicated to making their lives better however she could. She loved and adored her grandchildren. She always kept busy making wooden décor crafts.
Cindy L. Swander, 70, of Shonts Road, Bradford, PA.
Cindy L. Swander, 70, of Shonts Road, Bradford, passed away at home on Sunday, January 19, 2025, with her husband and son by her side.
Born April 1, 1954, in Culver, she was a daughter of the late Emma (Sunderlin) Burns and Larry Rorabaugh.
Cindy was a 1972 graduate of Bradford High School.
On July 1, 1972, in Bradford, she married Donald G. Swander, who survives.
Virginia M. Ross, 93, of Bradford, PA
Virginia M. Ross, 93, of Bradford, passed away Thursday, January 23, 2025, surrounded by her loving family, at the Bradford Ecumenical Home.
Born in Red House, NY on September 13, 1931, she was a daughter of the late Carl and Emma (France) Goodrich. She attended Randolph High School, and later attained her G.E.D.
On December 24, 1949, in Red House, NY, she married Anthony Ross, who died May 8, 1990.
Virginia was employed at Rathburn Molding, Holiday Valley, and in the Court System of the Cattaraugus County Sheriff’s Office for several years.
She was a member of the Bradford Moose Lodge. She was an avid Bingo player and enjoyed attending Bingo at the Derrick City Fire Department.
Philip L. “Toby” Mangus, 82, of 100 Rockland Avenue, Bradford, PA
Philip L. “Toby” Mangus, 82, of 100 Rockland Avenue, Bradford, passed away Wednesday, January 22, 2025, surrounded by his loving family at Bradford Regional Medical Center.
Born January 5, 1943, in Bradford, he was a son of the late Ralph and Angeline “Angie” (George) Mangus. He was a 1962 graduate of Bradford High School.
On July 9, 1964, he was drafted into the United States Army. He served with Company D 249th Engineer Brigade 7th and was honorably discharged on June 23, 1967. He was awarded the National Defense Service and the Rifle Sharpshooters Badge.
On February 5, 2000, in Bradford, he married Barbara A. (Haynes) Zeigler Mangus, who preceded him in death on February 10, 2003. They were together for over 15 years.
Virginia L. “Ginny” Stoneking, 80, formerly of 1050 East Main Street, Bradford, PA
Virginia L. “Ginny” Stoneking, 80, formerly of 1050 East Main Street, Bradford, passed away Saturday, January 25, 2025, surrounded by her loving family, in Mechanicsburg.
Born May 13, 1944, in Bradford, she was the daughter of the late Lynn and Jessie (Graham) Abbey. Ginny was raised in Smethport, where she was a 1962 graduate of Smethport High School.
On June 8, 1963, in the Smethport United Methodist Church, she married H. Daniel Stoneking, who died May 25, 2010.
Ginny was a Staff Accountant and co-owner of Smith, Best & Stoneking CPA, along with her husband Dan. She enjoyed watching the Mets play baseball (even when they lost), traveling, baking, and volunteering at Bradford Regional Medical Center. The thing she enjoyed the most however, was spending time with her family…especially her grandchildren.
Alcohol and Drug Abuse Services, Inc. Opens New Recovery Center In Emporium
Alcohol and Drug Abuse Services, Inc. is excited to announce the opening of its new Recovery Center at 34 E. Fourth St., Emporium.
The center will provide those in recovery a safe, supportive environment to develop and maintain a healthy support system and sense of community. The center will offer recovery specific tools and other resources, access to treatment, harm reduction information and supplies and various groups and activities to enhance a healthy recovery lifestyle.
Please join us on Feb. 4, 2025 from 2-5 p.m. for the grand opening of the Recovery Center.
Jeffrey D. “Jeff” Kelly, 63, of Coudersport, formerly of Orlando, Florida
Jeffrey D. Kelly
Jeffrey D. “Jeff” Kelly, 63, of Coudersport, formerly of Orlando, Florida, passed away unexpectedly in his home on Sunday, January 26, 2025.
Born on Thursday, October 26, 1961 in Rochester, NY, he was a son of Gene Kelly and Joan M. Jackson Kelly Freeman.
Jeff was a graduate of Coudersport High School. For many years he was employed by Twin Trucking in Georgia where he transported travel trailers and campers.
He enjoyed NASCAR.
Jack L. “Scotty” Scott, 82, of Alma, formerly of Black Creek,
Jack L. Scott “beloved father and grandfather”
Jack L. “Scotty” Scott, 82, of Alma, formerly of Black Creek, passed away in his home with his loving family on Sunday, January 26, 2025, after a long illness.
Born on Monday, June 29, 1942 in Belvidere, NY, he was a son of Edward C. and Rose Mastin Scott.
Jack attended Belmont High School in Belmont. He held many positions throughout his life, having worked at the cast iron foundry in Friendship, had also worked in construction, and had been employed by Turbodyne in Wellsville. He retired from Cooper Industries in Olean where he was employed as an electronic tester.
Jack, also known as “sure shot Scott” loved hunting, trapping and fishing.
Harry Glotz, 95, of Warren, PA
Harry Glotz
Harry Glotz, 95, of Warren, PA. died peacefully in his sleep Monday morning, January 27, 2025, at Kinzua Valley Healthcare, after an extended illness. He was born October 30, 1929, in Tidioute, PA. to the late Carl and Rozella Yazinski Glotz, Sr.
Harry was a 1948 graduate of Warren High School. He had served with the U.S. Army as a sergeant during the Korean War, serving from 1951 to 1953 with the 101st Signal Battalion Corp. where he earned the Korean Service Medal with 4 stars, United Nation Medal, National Defense Medal and Unit Merit Commendation. He was employed with the former Bell Telephone Company for 35 years as a PBX Installer, retiring in 1984. He was a member of St. Joseph R.C. Church.
He enjoyed crossword puzzles, woodworking and any handyman projects. Harry also enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Jeffrey D. “Jeff” Kelly, 63, of Coudersport, formerly of Orlando, Florida
Jeffrey D. Kelly
Jeffrey D. “Jeff” Kelly, 63, of Coudersport, formerly of Orlando, Florida, passed away unexpectedly in his home on Sunday, January 26, 2025.
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.
Free February Programs at Sinnemahoning State Park!
Saturday, February 8th, 2025
12:00 P.M.-2:00 P.M –Snowshoeing for Beginners – Snowshoeing is a great way to explore your favorite trails in winter. Snowshoes and trekking poles will be provided. Program will begin indoors with an introduction to snowshoeing equipment and styles, followed by a guided practice instruction on level ground, then a short excursion on the trail. If snow depth is insufficient for snowshoeing, the indoor portion of the program will still be held, followed by a roughly 2-mile nature hike.
Registration is required.
Register at: http://eventsreg.dcnr.pa.gov/register/create/48674667236145
Join the Great back Yard Bird Count at Sinnemahoning, February 14-17!
Saturday, February 15th, 2025
9:00 A.M.-10:30 A.M –Coffee with the Birds – Enjoy a cup of coffee, tea, or cocoa, INDOORS, as we participate in Great Backyard Bird Count and learn to identify the birds visiting the feeders just outside the window. Stop by anytime during the program hours.
Meets at: Wildlife Center Fireplace
John M. Peterson, Jr., 85, of Windfall Road, St. Marys, PA.
John M. Peterson, Jr., 85, of Windfall Road, St. Marys, passed away on Saturday, January 25, 2025, at Elk Haven Nursing Home following complications of a fall and battle with dementia.
He was born on October 25, 1939 in Wildwood, NJ, a son of the late John Peterson, Sr. and Mary Louise Souders Peterson.
On October 22, 1966, in Arlington, VA, he married Rita Hnath Peterson, who survives. Together they shared more than 58 years of love, laughter, and marriage. John spent his entire married life prioritizing his wife and his love for her.
John was a graduate of Falls Church High School, class of 1959. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1959-1963 and was a member of Queen of the World Church. He spent the first part of his career running heavy equipment for a construction company, and then moved into the insurance industry, selling insurance for many years. When he wasn’t mowing his grass, he could be found woodworking or taking his Harley for a ride. He delighted in spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. A dedicated, hard working and loving man, John was affectionately known as “Poppy” to all those who loved him.
Recalls
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is issuing a public health alert for frozen, fully cooked Wegmans breaded chicken breast nuggets that may be contaminated with extraneous material, specifically bone fragments. FSIS is issuing this public health alert to ensure that consumers are aware that this product should not be consumed. A recall was not requested because the product is no longer available for purchase.
A BAND OF HEAVY SNOW WILL AFFECT PARTS OF MCKEAN…WARREN…POTTER…AND TIOGA COUNTIES
Special Weather Statement
National Weather Service State College PA
719 AM EST Tue Jan 28 2025
…A SNOW SQUALL WILL AFFECT PARTS OF POTTER…NORTHERN CENTRE…
NORTHERN CLINTON…CAMERON…CLEARFIELD…NORTHERN LYCOMING…
TIOGA…AND ELK COUNTIES…
HAZARDS…A snow squall accompanied by winds of up to 30 MPH which
can rapidly reduce visibility to less than one mile.
LOCATION AND MOVEMENT…At 718 AM EST, a snow squall was along a
line extending from near Liberty to near Ridgway and moving
southeast at 35 MPH.
THIS SQUALL WILL BE NEAR…
Cedar Run, Cross Fork, and Benezette around 725 AM EST.
Force around 730 AM EST.
Penfield, Parker Dam State Park, and English Center around 735 AM
EST.
Hyner, Westport, and South Renovo around 740 AM EST.
Little Pine State Park and Keating around 745 AM EST.
Waterville around 750 AM EST.
SAFETY INFO…
Use extra caution if you must travel into or through this squall.
Rapid changes in visibility and potentially slick roads may lead to
accidents.