Robert “Bob” P. Metarko, 90, formerly of Wellsboro, PA
Robert “Bob” P. Metarko, 90, formerly of Wellsboro, died on Saturday, February 22, 2025 surrounded by loved ones. He was born June 22, 1934 in Blossburg, PA, a son of Pete and Anna (Wasil) Metarko. After graduating from Charleston Wellsboro Joint High School, he served in the U.S. Army and then graduated with both his Bachelors and Masters of Science in Engineering from Drexel University. Decades of employment at Honeywell were characterized by excellence and advancement. He served as Director of Engineering, providing international oversight and consulting.
Alyssa Young is the Student of the Week for the week of February 24th, 2025
Alyssa Young is the Student of the Week for the week of February 24th, 2025. She is participating in the afternoon session of the Early Childhood Education program at the Seneca Highlands Career and Technical Center. Alyssa is a senior enrolled at Smethport Area High School. Upon graduation, Alyssa plans to attend Wilson College for a degree in Early Childhood Education.
Alyssa is currently working to gain her CDA, a national credentialing program sponsored by the Council for Professional Recognition. She plans on taking the CDA (Child Development Associate) in the next few months. She is volunteering in a clinical setting in the Port Allegany pre-K classroom to gain her required hours for her CDA. Alyssa enjoys working with the children, watching them grow academically, as well as watching them grow friendships with one another. She has been involved with the student committee at the Career and Technical Center as president in her first year. She was inducted into the National Technical Honors Society in the 2023-2024 school year.
We look forward to her efforts paying off as she strives to attain her Child Development Associate credential in the near future. Alyssa was chosen because her instructor, Kim Mooney, does not ever remember a time when she did not complete her work, failed to inform her about changes in the schedule, and did not organize and take care of items in the classroom. She is pleasant and has always been very personable and thoughtful of others. She extends herself and knowledge by taking dual enrollment classes and by being a SkillsUSA competitor.
Thomas H. Harbaugh, 83, of 955 West Washington Street, Bradford, PA
Thomas H. Harbaugh, 83, of 955 West Washington Street, Bradford, went to be with the Lord, Friday, February 21, 2025, at Bradford Regional Medical Center.
Born October 9, 1941, in Bradford, he was a son of the late Roy A. and Anna Rachael (Kroah) Harbaugh. He was a 1959 graduate of Bradford High School, and attended Green Lane Theology College.
On November 17, 1962, he married Kathryn L. (Bromley) Harbaugh, who survives.
Tom was employed at Hull Electric Company for 39 years. He held various positions in sales and at one time was the manager of the Warren store. He enjoyed woodworking and hunting. He was a member of Abundant Life Assembly of God Church.
Ralph Augustas Rose, 91, of Derrick City, PA
Ralph Augustas Rose, 91, of Derrick City, a loving husband, father, brother, uncle, grandfather and great grandfather died on February 24, 2025 at his residence, with his four daughters by his side.
Born in Lewis Run on April 20, 1933, he was the son of Philip M. and Pauline Knapp Rose, Sr.
Ralph attended St. Bernard’s school and graduated from Bradford High School in 1952. He graduated in 1953 from Kimball Union Academy, a top private school in New England.
Ralph was married to Judith Oliver Rose on August 28, 1954 in St. Francis Church and enjoyed 63 years together. They started dating when they were in the 9th grade and met in typing class.
William James Cummiskey, 95, of East Aurora, NY
William James Cummiskey, 95, of East Aurora, NY, passed away, Wednesday February 19, 2025, at Veterans Hospital in Buffalo, NY.
Born March 2, 1929, in Bradford, he was a son of the late Francis “Frank” and Mary Ellen (Hogan) Cummiskey.
Bill was a 1947 graduate of St. Bernard High School and attended University of Tulsa, Canisius College and University at Buffalo.
On January 5, 1948, he enlisted into the United States Navy, he served in Korea on LSM 419, and was stationed at Destroyer Base, San Diego, CA, The battles he seved in during the Korean War, Inchon Landing 1950, Evacuation at Hungnam 1950 and First U.N. Counter Offensive 1951. He was honorably discharged on December 19, 1951.
Joanne Dorothy Mosier, 88, Of Elk Haven Nursing Home
On Monday, February 24th, 2025, the heavens welcomed Joanne Dorothy Mosier, who passed away peacefully at Elk Haven Nursing Home, surrounded by her loving family.
Born on November 10, 1936, in St. Marys, PA, Joanne was the daughter of the late Howard and Dorothy (Heiberger) McAllister. On January 22, 1955, she married the love of her life, William “Bill” H. Mosier, at Sacred Heart Church in St. Marys. Together, they shared 47 wonderful years, raising their seven children in their home on Main Street in Kersey, PA. Bill preceded her in death in 2002.
Joanne attended Kaulmont, Sacred Heart, and Central Catholic High School before earning her Certificate of Director of Religious Education from Mercyhurst College. She worked as a nurse’s aide at Andrew Kaul Memorial Hospital for 15 years and later in the cafeteria at Elk Christian Catholic High School.
Faith played a central role in Joanne’s life. She dedicated many years to teaching religious education at St. Boniface Elementary School and served as a lector and chairperson at St. Boniface Church. She and Bill also sang together in the church choir, sharing their love of music with the community.
CRCF to host cybersecurity Link and Learn seminar
The Cattaraugus Region Community Foundation will host its first link and learn seminar of 2025, “Cybersecurity for nonprofit and small business,” on March 24 at 9 a.m. in The Hub.
This free, educational session is open to nonprofit staff and volunteers and will provide valuable insights into best practices for protecting businesses against cyber threats.
New this year, the session will be open to the small business community as well.
The seminar will feature cybersecurity and IT experts, including Jim Finch, president and owner of Acme business; Dominic Rogers, vice president and director of information technology at Cutco Corporation; and Patrick Rost, founder of InfoSecurity Blueprint, LLC.
Gary Edward FALK, 78, of Kane, PA, formerly of Port Allegany,
Gary Edward FALK, 78, of Kane, PA, formerly of Port Allegany, died Monday, February 24, 2025 in his home.
Arrangements will be announced by Olney-Foust Funeral Homes & Crematory, Switzer Chapel, 77 Willow Street, Port Allegany, PA. Online condolences may be expressed at www.olneyfoust.com.
Last Day Foxes at Rolfe Beagle Club’s Coyote and Fox Hunt or Trap
Johnsonburg, Pa.: Josh Bizzak out of Wilcox and Paul Costanzo from Ridgway helped fill out a busy last day at Rolfe Beagle Club’s Coyote and Fox Hunt or Trap by bringing in foxes to the weigh station.
Josh Bizzak hunts with red lights, an electronic call, and shoots a .17 Hornet. He harvested two gray foxes, both females, at 1:00 am Saturday morning. One tipped the scale at 7.4# and the second one weighed 8.6#. “I harvested one and was able to call the second one back,” said Josh. Josh was hunting private lands in Elk County. At a later stand in the morning, Josh was able to call in a 12.4# male near 4:30 am.
Paul Costanzo was hunting near Johnsonburg Friday evening and harvested two foxes on private lands in Elk County. The female red fox weighed in at 9.4# and the female gray fox weighed in at 10.0#. Both foxes were harvested with a .204 rifle, and Paul uses both electronic and hand calls.
Hunters are reminded that Rolfe Beagle Club will be offering their 10-day coyote/crow hunt from August 28 thru 6:00 p.m. on September 6, bracketing Labor Day.
Additional information at the Facebook Page, Rolfe Beagle Club.
Robert “Bob” P. Metarko, 90, formerly of Wellsboro, PA.
Robert “Bob” P. Metarko, 90, formerly of Wellsboro, died on Saturday, February 22, 2025 surrounded by loved ones.
He was born June 22, 1934 in Blossburg, PA, a son of Pete and Anna (Wasil) Metarko. After graduating from Charleston Wellsboro Joint High School, he served in the U.S. Army and then graduated with both his Bachelors and Masters of Science in Engineering from Drexel University. Decades of employment at Honeywell were characterized by excellence and advancement. He served as Director of Engineering, providing international oversight and consulting.
He was married for 67 years to his best friend, the late Edith J. (Greener) Metarko and loved spending time with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Wit and wisdom were par for the course. A blessing to all who knew him, his unwavering passion to help others was evidenced by his generosity of time, talents, and gifts.
Consiglia A. “Consi” Wheeler, 96, of Kersey, PA
Consiglia A. “Consi” Wheeler, 96, of Kersey, passed away on Sunday, February 23, 2025, at Penn Highlands Elk.
She was born on October 31, 1928, in Rasselas, the daughter of the late Dominic and Eva DeStefano DiNardo.
On April 11, 1953, at Holy Rosary Church, she married the late Russell B. Wheeler, who preceded her in death on January 27, 2009. Consi spent many years working at Stackpole, Anthony’s Restaurant, and Imbrogno Italian Market. Known for her love of baking and cooking, she especially looked forward to making homemade pasta and pies for holiday gatherings, a culinary tradition that brought joy to her family and friends. Consi cherished her upbringing on the family farm, often reminiscing about the fond memories of her childhood. She was also known for her compassionate spirit, volunteering with the Guardian Angels for many years.
Elk Dems To Host 2025 Grand Opening
ST. MARYS — For the fourth consecutive election cycle, the Elk County Democratic Committee will have a permanent headquarters in Saint Marys. Originally opened in August of 2022 for that year’s general election, through generous donations, the Committee has been able to keep the office, located at 210 Brusselles Street, a permanent fixture in the downtown area.
The committee is marking this achievement by hosting a 2025 Grand Opening at the headquarters on Friday, Feb. 28th starting at 6:30 p.m. The event is open to all Democrats from Elk and surrounding counties. There will be pizza and drinks served, and all local and statewide Democratic candidates can join and help celebrate. Candidates are in the middle of the three-week petition signing period, so it is a terrific opportunity to stop in, meet candidates, and sign petitions to get them on the May primary ballot.
In Elk County, Judge and Inspector of Elections in each voting precinct, township supervisor, auditor and tax collector, city and borough mayor, councilmember, and tax collector as well as school director (school board) positions are on the ballot. Along with local races, there are also two statewide offices on the ballot – one vacancy on Commonwealth Court and one on the Superior Court. The committee has petition forms for Elk, Cameron, Jefferson, McKean, Clearfield, and Forest County Democrats to sign for the Democratic statewide candidates – Judge Brandon Neuman (Superior Court) and Judge Stella Tsai (Commonwealth Court).
Following the Grand Opening, the headquarters will host monthly meetings, planning sessions, and Get-Out-The-Vote events throughout the 2025 election period.
For more information about the committee, party resources for candidates, or questions about running for office, visit www.facebook.com/ElkCoDC, email elkcountydemocrats@gmail.com or call/text 814-636-1030.
Lila Pepperman-Hewitt, 99, of Coudersport, formerly of Coneville, PA.
Lila Pepperman-Hewitt “beloved aunt”
Lila Pepperman-Hewitt, 99, of Coudersport, formerly of Coneville, passed away on Saturday, February 22, 2025, in Sweden Valley Manor, Coudersport.
Born on Saturday, August 8, 1925 in Coneville, she was a daughter of Thomas J. and Frankie Sprague Pepperman. She was married to Jack D. Hewitt, who passed away on February 10, 2017.
Lila was a graduate of Shinglehouse High School. She was employed for many years as a secretary for the Department of Agriculture. After her retirement, Lila worked with her brother, Si Pepperman, in his auction business.
Linda J. ANDREWS, 77, of Mechanicsburg, PA, formerly of Cowanesque
Linda J. ANDREWS, 77, of Mechanicsburg, PA, formerly of Cowanesque, died Monday, February 17, 2025 in her home. Born May 11, 1947, in Westfield Township, she was the daughter of Lewis Calvin and Fern E. Webster Andrews.
A 1965 graduate of Cowanesque Valley High School, she earned a bachelor’s degree in French and Elementary Education from Houghton University and a master’s degree in education from Mansfield University. She was a teacher at Westfield Elementary School for 37 years. Linda attended the First Baptist Church in Westfield. Her sister, Bonnie L. Andrews, survived until her death on Thursday, February 20, 2025.
Linda is survived by nieces, nephews, cousins, and a host of friends and former students.
She was predeceased by her brother, Billie L. Andrews, on May 25, 2022. Private burial will be in Fairview Cemetery, Holiday, Middlebury Township.
Memorials may be made to Houghton University, One Willard Ave., P.O. Box 128, Houghton, NY 14744 or online at www.houghton.edu/giving.
Arrangements are under the direction of Olney-Foust Funeral Homes & Crematory, Ulysses, PA. Online condolences may be expressed at www.olneyfoust.com.
Causer, Dush Announce Funding for Area Roadwork
Rep. Martin Causer (R-Cameron/McKean/Potter) and Sen. Cris Dush (R-25) today announced more than $650,000 in state grants have been awarded for three road paving and reconstruction projects in McKean County.
“Maintaining our infrastructure is important but costly,” Causer said. “I was happy to work with officials in these communities to support funding for much-needed road improvements that will benefit residents and all who pass through these areas.”
“We all share the benefits of an adequately funded and properly maintained local transportation infrastructure,” said Dush. “Strategically bundling infrastructure upgrades, drainage improvements, utility work and other quality of life enhancements whenever possible are proven methods to reducing overall construction costs, increasing public safety and minimizing disruptions for McKean County residents and job creators.”
The grants were awarded as follows:
- Kane: $225,000 for repaving several streets in the borough.
- Ceres Township: $200,000 toward reconstruction of Barden Brook Road.
- Eldred Township: $228,500 for reconstruction of Township Route 338, also known as Newell Creek Road.
The funding comes from the Multimodal Transportation Fund under the Commonwealth Financing Authority, which manages the state’s economic stimulus programs. The fund provides grants to encourage economic development and ensure a safe and reliable system of transportation is available in the Commonwealth.
Stephen Baldoni, 74, of Edson St.
Stephen Baldoni Eldred
Stephen Baldoni, 74, of Edson St. passed away on Wednesday (February19th, 2024) at the St. Vincent Medical Center in Erie following a brief illness. Born July 21st, 1950 to the late Gino and Jane (Renehan) Baldoni. Steve graduated from Archbishop Walsh High School Class of 1968.
After High School Steve enlisted in the US Navy where served during the Vietnam War. When Steve Returned to the area he worked at PetroWax in Farmers Valley as a security guard for many years. His main passion in life was his work at the Eldred Borough Volunteer Fire Department and Ambulance service, where he was a lifetime member and held many different positions, Including being an EMT for many years, he was also active with McKean County EMS services.
HOMICIDE CHARGES FILED AFTER FEMALE’S BODY FOUND IN PORT ALLEGANY MOTEL
District Attorney Stephanie Vettenburg-Shaffer reports that Pennsylvania State Police have filed a criminal complaint against a man regarding the death of the woman whose body was found at the Midtown Motel in Port Allegany. Pennsylvania State Police accuse Brian KUCHINKA, most recently from Port Allegany, with Criminal Homicide, Aggravated Assault (causing serious bodily injury and attempting to cause serious bodily injury), Aggravated Assault (with a deadly weapon) and Recklessly Endangering Another Person. The complaint alleges that the Pennsylvania State Police were requested to assist at the Midtown Motel after Officers with Port Allegany Police Department responded to the motel following up on a tip in a missing person investigation. The complaint alleges that the Port Allegany Officers attempted to contact KUCHINKA, who was the missing victim’s ex-boyfriend. He was known to be staying at the Midtown Motel after the end of the relationship with the victim caused him to relocate to the motel earlier this month. The complaint reports that Officers heard a single gunshot come from the room and could smell gunshot residue.
A perimeter was established, and Pennsylvania State Police made telephone contact with KUCHINKA. Eventually police were successful in causing him to exit the motel room and he was found with a handgun on his person. He had an apparent self-induced head injury and was taken to an out of state hospital for treatment in a secure location. Public records reveal law enforcement obtained surveillance footage that is alleged to show KUCHINKA carrying what appears to be the female’s body from a small SUV into his room at the motel. The female victim was found deceased with an obvious head injury, consistent with a gunshot wound to her head. The investigation is ongoing.
Trooper Whitney Boshart is the investigator. Anyone with information on the case or a reported disturbance that occurred in the parking lot of Costa’s Supermarket in Smethport Friday night (February 21st) between 9:00 pm and 10:00 pm that may be related to the case is requested to call the Pennsylvania State Police-Lewis Run at (814) 368-9230 or 911.
Jack Lewis Lent, 79, of Colesburg, PA
Jack Lewis Lent
COLESBURG, PA–Jack Lewis Lent, 79, of Colesburg, PA, passed away in the comfort of his home on Saturday, February 22, 2025, with his loving family at his side, after a brief illness.
He was born on April 22, 1945, in Coudersport, PA son of Lewis L. and Ruth “Marie” Barker Lent. On June 12, 1968, at Park United Methodist Church, Jack married the love of his life, Nancy K. Snyder who survives.
He was a graduate of Coudersport High School, class of 1963. He went on to study and play football at Glenville College, in West Virginia. Soon after, he was drafted and served in the United States Army from 1966 to 1967 attaining the rank of SP4. After active military he served in the National Guard for several years.
As soon as he was able to milk a cow, he worked on his parent’s dairy farm and continued to do so until his parents retired from farming. He spent his entire career at Tennessee Gas Pipeline Company, which later became El Paso Energy. After a hunting accident in 2003, he retired after 35 years of service.