Gordon G. Tucker, 75, of Turtlepoint, passed away on Sunday, February1, 2026, in UPMC Williamsport, after a long illness.
Family and friends may gather from 12 noon to 1pm on Friday, February 6, 2026, at the Riverside United Methodist Church, River Street, Roulette, where funeral services will follow at 1pm with the Rev. Greg Rapp, pastor of Park United Methodist Church, Coudersport and Pastor Jim Cannistraci, of Riverside United Methodist Church, officiating. Burial will be in Fairview Cemetery, Port Allegany.
Gordon’s wife entrusted his care to Kevin J. Dusenbury, funeral director/owner of the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse.
To express condolences, light a candle or share a fond memory of Gordon, please visit www.virgillhowardfuneralhome.com or the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home Facebook page.
Alfred F. “Buddy” Lamb, 85, a resident of Elk Haven Nursing Home, passed away on Friday, January 30, 2026 following a brief illness.
He was born on August 19, 1940 in Austin, PA, a son of the late Alfred and Gladys Hoak Lamb.
Buddy worked for several years at Elcam in St. Marys. He was a member of the PFL, CMF, and the K of C. Coming from a musically inclined family, Buddy loved listening to music and attending square dances with the Bells of St. Marys Square Dance Club. He also enjoyed spending time at the St. Marys Senior Center and with the Spark Club, where he met and made many friends. Buddy loved the outdoors, especially hunting and fishing. He loved nothing more than spending time at hunting camp with family. As an avid fisherman, Buddy always looked forward to stocking trout in the area with the Fish and Boat Commission.
Buddy is survived by his sister-in-law; Lesa Lamb of Kersey, and by two nieces, two great-nieces, and one great-great niece.
In addition to his parents, Buddy was preceded in death by his brother; George Lamb, in 2023, and by a nephew; Jeff Lamb in 2015.
A Memorial Service for Alfred F. “Buddy” Lamb will be held on Tuesday, February 10, 2025 at 1:00 PM at the Lynch-Green Funeral Home with Rev. Robert Zilhaver, Pastor of St. Marys Methodist Church, officiating.
Burial will follow in Parklawn Memorial Gardens.
Family and friends will be received at the Lynch-Green Funeral Home on Tuesday, February 10, 2026 from 12:00 PM until the time of the service.
Memorial Contributions may be made to Elk Haven Nursing Home Activities Fund.
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.krisefamilyfuneralhomes.com
Travis S. “Shovelhead” Wackwitz, 42, of Shinglehouse, passed way unexpectedly at the home of his parents in Shinglehouse, PA, on Saturday, January 31, 2026, after suffering an apparent heart attack.
Born on Monday, December 19, 1983, in Olean, NY, he was a son of Melvin T. Wackwitz, Sr. and Lydia V. Stevens Carpenter.
Travis was a graduate of Bradford High School. He was employed by George Jones as a logger in Shinglehouse. He was a concrete specialist having installed but also constructed wave pools in New Jersey, Pennsylvania (including Waldameer Park in Erie, PA), and Darien Lake in New York. He also built log homes and was an electrician. He was a talented person.
His many hobbies and interests included hunting, fishing, kayaking, riding his Harley, snowmobiling and riding his side by side. He loved his dog, Kara.
Left to cherish his memory are his father, Melvin T. “Todd” Wackwitz, Sr. of Bradford; his mother, Lydia V. (Harold) Carpenter of Shinglehouse; his longtime girlfriend, Tracy L. Bliss of Shinglehouse; his siblings, Shambra L., Melvin T., Jr., Dustin L., Harold M. Jr., Brittany L., Michael T., Steven L., Sharon A., Selena L., and Samantha L.; many nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews; and so many friends he called family.
Travis was predeceased by a sister; a brother; his paternal and maternal grandparents; and his stepmother, Angie B. Wackwitz.
Family and friends may gather from 5pm to 8pm on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, at the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, 118 South Union Street, Shinglehouse, PA, where funeral services will follow at 8pm with Pastor Hank St. Amour of Hebron Union Church, Coudersport, officiating.
In lieu of flowers, memorials in Travis’ name may be made to the Oswayo Valley Rod and Gun Club, PO Box 186, Shinglehouse, PA 16748 or to Shinglehouse American Legion Post 530, 1365 SR 44S, Shinglehouse, PA 16748.
Travis’ family has entrusted his care and funeral arrangements to Kevin J. Dusenbury, funeral director/owner of the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse.
To express condolences, light a candle or share a fond memory of Travis, please visit www.virgillhowardfuneralhome.com or the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home Facebook page.
Congratulations to Aliza Penick, a senior from Port Allegany School District, on being named Student of the Week in the Culinary Arts Department at Seneca Highlands Career and Technical Center.
Aliza consistently demonstrates strong culinary discipline and professionalism. She is always in the right place at the right time, willingly takes on any task assigned, and leads by example by setting high standards for herself and others. Her leadership and reliability make her a valued member of the program.
Outside of the culinary classroom, Aliza competes in long jump and serves as President of the Yearbook Organization at her home school, further reflecting her commitment, leadership, and dedication.
Family and friends are invited to attend a memorial visitation for Mr. Lester C. Neal, 87, of Myrtle, from 11am to 12 noon on Saturday, February 7, 2026, at the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, 118 South Union Street, Shinglehouse, where a celebration of Lester’s life will follow at 12 noon with Ronald Fitch, Elder of Central Hinsdale Jehovah Witnesses, officiating. Burial will be in McKean Memorial Park, Lafayette.
Lester passed away on January 22, 2026.
Lester’s family has entrusted his care and cremation arrangements to Kevin J. Dusenbury, funeral director/owner of the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse.
Verna L. MONROE, 84, passed from this world on January 31, 2026, peacefully with daughters by her side, to go home to her husband, son, mom, dad, and her sisters. She had a huge heart and loved her family.
Verna is survived by her two sons, two daughters and their families, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews, stepchildren, and friends. As per Verna’s wishes, there will be no services.
Arrangements are under the direction of Olney-Foust Funeral Homes & Crematory, Ulysses, PA. Online condolences may be expressed at www.olneyfoust.com.
The City of Bradford Police Department reports the arrest of Kenneth Bell following incidents involving active warrants, flight from police, and drug-related offenses. On November 10, 2025, at approximately 10:39 p.m., officers encountered Bell as a passenger in a vehicle operated by Raymond Kelley at the Country Fair gas station on West Washington Street.
Kelley, who was known to be DUI-suspended, admitted to driving and identified Bell, who had an active warrant issued by PSP Lewis Run. Bell was taken into custody. A search revealed a glass smoking pipe with burnt residue and approximately eight grams of suspected crack cocaine, along with packaging materials, a digital scale, Suboxone strips, THC vape cartridges, and other paraphernalia inside Bell’s backpack.
A silicone container inside the vehicle also contained suspected crack cocaine, which field-tested positive. The vehicle was searched after a search warrant was obtained. Bell was remanded to jail this date on the arrest warrant. Bell later made bail and was released.
On January 25, 2026, at approximately 11:05 a.m., officers observed Bell outside 9 Kiwanis Court and recognized he had an active warrant issued by the City of Bradford Police Department in relation to the prior offense on November 10th, 2025. When ordered to stop, Bell fled on foot.
After a brief pursuit through deep snow Patrolman T. Blair with the assistance of Patrolman C. Keane, safely took Bell into custody without further incident. Police also noted Bell had previously fled officers on January 16, 2026, by jumping from a window at 6 Kiwanis Court while officers attempted to arrest him on the same warrant.
All charges are pending through the appropriate judicial process. The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Bell was arraigned before Judge Luther on the flight-related charges and was remanded to the McKean County Jail on $50,000 bail. He was also arraigned before Judge Engman on the drug-related charges and remanded to the McKean County Jail on an additional $50,000 bail.
SHINGLEHOUSE, PA. Mr. Erich Zaun, Principal, has announced the following students, grades six through twelve, have been named to the Honor Roll for the second nine-week grading period at the Oswayo Valley Jr./Sr. High School. Students named to the High Honor Roll have maintained an average of 93% or above, while those on the Honor Roll have averaged 87% or above.
HIGH HONOR ROLL
GRADE 12: Lucas Dickerson, Luke Karr, Ridge Mesler, Trevor Miller, Soi Sang Nguyen, Rachel Rathbun, Mia Shaffer, Wynter Turek
Charles L. “Chuck” Claycomb, 67, of Coryville, PA, passed away unexpectedly, Sunday (February 1, 2026).
He was born November 25, 1958 in Johnstown, PA, the son of Roy and Twila (Hudson) Claycomb. On March 29, 1997, in the Coryville Church of Faith, he married Melissa S. Bhe, who survives.
Chuck was a graduate of Smethport Area High School. He owned and operated Claycomb Autobody in Coryville for many years, up until his passing.
He was a former EMT for the Smethport Ambulance Association. Chuck enjoyed spending time with his family and going fishing, especially with his grandchildren.
In addition to his wife, Melissa, he is survived by:
His mother: Twila Claycomb of Smethport
Three sons: Christopher P. (Stacy) Claycomb of Duke Center, PA, Scott M. (Stacey Strait) Ayers, along with Ashley McClellan, and Joshua A. (Amber Cline) Ayers, both of Coryville
Grandchildren: Ethan and Logan Claycomb; Brooke, Alyssa, Summer, Harper, Peyton, Cannon and Brantlee Ayers; Caydence Gilbert; Ethan and Kaylee Horn; Christian and Oakley Cline; Braelyn and Levi Lamberton
One great grandson: Callum Steeples
One sister: Gloria Wilson of Eldred
Two brothers: Earl (Angie) Claycomb in West Virginia and Ron (Kara) Claycomb of Smethport
And several nieces and nephews
In addition to his father, Chuck was preceded in death by two nephews: Stephen Claycomb and Andrew Wilson.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, from 2-4 and 6-8 PM at Hartle-Tarbox Funeral Homes, Inc., 2 Bank St., Smethport. A celebration of Chuck’s life will be held at a later date and time to be announced.
Memorials, if desired, may be made to the family at this time to start an Autobody Scholarship in Chuck’s name at 1527 Rt. 446, Eldred, PA 16731 or to your local Ambulance Service or Fire Department. Online condolences may be made at www.hartle-tarboxfuneralhomes.com.
Arrangements are under the direction of the Hartle-Tarbox Funeral Homes, Inc., Smethport.
SHINGLEHOUSE, PA—Travis S. “Shovelhead” Wackwitz, 42, of Shinglehouse, passed way unexpectedly at the home of his parents in Shinglehouse, PA, on Saturday, January 31, 2026, after suffering an apparent heart attack.
Family and friends may gather from 5pm to 8pm on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, at the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, 118 South Union Street, Shinglehouse, PA, where funeral services will follow at 8pm.
A complete obituary will follow.
Travis’ family has entrusted his care and funeral arrangements to Kevin J. Dusenbury, funeral director/owner of the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse.
To express condolences, light a candle or share a fond memory of Travis, please visit www.virgillhowardfuneralhome.com or the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home Facebook page.
Dolores “Dot” D. Manno, 97, of Ridgway, passed away on Monday, January 26, 2026, at Pinecrest Manor Nursing Home.
She was born on August 19, 1928, in Altoona, the daughter of the late Thomas and Alice Reilly Zimmerman.
On May 21, 1949, at St. Leos Church, she married the late Armond E. Manno, who preceded her in death on March 15, 2005.
A member of St. Leo’s Church, Dot found great joy in her faith and the community that surrounded her. She cherished the friendships she nurtured at the Ridgway Senior Center, where she enjoyed playing cards and sharing laughter with her friends. Her remarkable baking skills were known throughout the neighborhood; she loved baking for those around her, bringing warmth and delicious treats to many friends and neighbors.
She is survived by 3 children: John Manno and his wife Carol of Houma, LA, Joseph Manno and his wife Cindy of Suffolk, VA, and Jane Marroni of Pittsburgh, PA, 6 grandchildren; Megan, Jack, Dean, Kelly, Lauren, and Kirsten, and 2 great grandchild, Owen and Aanya. She is also survived by a sister, Alice Piccirillo of Ridgway, and several nieces and nephews.
In addition to her husband and parents, she was preceded in death by a sister, Peggy Zimmerman and a brother, Tom Zimmerman.
Funeral Services for Dolores D. Manno are being held privately by the family.
Burial will follow at St. Leos Cemetery.
Krise Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 130 Center Street, Ridgway, PA 15853 is handling the services and online condolences may be offered to the family at www.krisefamilyfuneralhomes.com.
Gisela M. “Pat” Sterner, 90, of longtime resident of both Cheektowaga,NY, and Austin, PA, passed away Saturday, January 31, 2026, at Elderwood of Williamsville.
Pat was born on February 10, 1935, in Worms, Germany, the daughter of the late Johannes and Anna (Herrmann) Sackreuther. She married George Sterner on August 14, 1956, and celebrated over 57 years of marriage until his passing on January 12, 2014 Pat was an avid reader, enjoyed knitting, and was a loving mother and wife.
Pat is survived by daughters: Deborah Sterner of Hamburg, NY; Kimberly (Mark) Sullivan of Buffalo, NY; a daughter-in-law, Judy Sterner of Tonawanda, NY; 7 grandchildren, 3 great grandchildren, and one on the way.
In addition to her husband and parents, Pat was preceded in death by sons: Frank Sterner, Scott Sterner, and a brother, Hans Sackreuther.
At Pat’s wishes, there will be no visitation or services. A private burial will be in Forest Hill Cemetery, Austin. The family has entrusted her arrangements to the Thomas E. Fickinger Funeral Home, 210 N. East St., Coudersport. To share a memory or condolence with the family, please visit www.thomasfickinger.com.
Considering a career as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)? Penn College has scheduled an Information Session for its upcoming LPN course beginning in April. When you enroll in the full-time Practical Nursing program, you’ll be on your way to a fulfilling career in just one year. With skilled faculty, hands-on learning labs, 1,536 hours of instruction, and access to Penn College student services, you’ll be confident and ready to take the Practical Nursing licensing exam (NCLEX-PN), and if you want to advance your career, we have pathways to get you there.
To learn more, attend the Information Sessions scheduled for Thursdays, February 12th and March 12th, at 6:30 p.m. at Penn College/Wellsboro, 22 Walnut Street, or live via Zoom at the Education Council’s office at 5 Water Street. Registration is required. For more information or to register for an Information Session, call Wendy Joachim at (570) 724-7703.
The Family of Mr. Larry J. Smith wishes to thank their family, friends, and community for the comfort their memorial gifts and kind words have given our loved ones during this difficult time.
Chili & Chowder with a Chance for Chocolate is back with sweet and savory goodies on Saturday, Feb. 14, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. during the Ice and Spice Winter Weekend in Wellsboro, Pa. Proceeds benefit Second Chance Animal Sanctuaries and go directly to help Tioga County animals in need.
Several local businesses (15 last year; this year’s TBA), will concoct and serve up chili and/or chowder. With the purchase of a tasting passport for $10, participants can visit each business to sample the creations, and enter to win a different chocolate-themed gift basket at each site. The passport comes with a map, and signs outside will mark each site, all downtown within walking distance. When done tasting, participants can vote for their top three favorite dishes, with those chefs being recognized at the end of the event.
The Bingham Township Supervisors are seeking applications for a part-time Secretary/Treasurer. Experience in bookkeeping with QuickBooks, Computer skills, and Secretarial skills are needed. Duties would include:
Payroll, Quarterly Taxes, Annual W-2’s, Reconciliations, Paying & Recording Invoices, Making Deposits, Balancing Bank Statements, State Reports, DCED Reports, Grant Applications, Attending monthly meetings, Taking & Recording Minutes, providing Financial Records, Assessment Building Permits, Driveway Permits, Road Bonds & Permits, Open Record Requests, and Budgets.
Last week in review: A two-win week allowed the women’s basketball team not only to surpass last season’s win total, but matched the most wins since the 2008-09 squad won 16 games, and, with three regular-season games remaining, put it in position to match or surpass the program-win record of 19 set in 2005-06. The victories also clinched a United East Conference postseason playoff berth.
On the horizon: The athletics department will host its eighth Girls and Women in Sports Day Clinic from 1-3 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 8, at Bardo Gymnasium on West Third Street. The registration deadline is Friday, Feb. 6. During the free clinic, student-athletes from basketball, soccer, softball, tennis and volleyball will instruct participants on the basics of their respective sport. Each participant will have the opportunity to participate in all five sports.
Marie L. Gahr, 63, of St. Marys, passed away on Tuesday, January 20, 2026 at Highland View Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center in Brockway.
She was born on November 5, 1962 in St. Marys, PA, a daughter of the late Donald and Etha Leithner Gahr.
Marie was a lifelong resident of the area and a graduate of St. Marys Area High School. A faithful Catholic, Marie attended church every Sunday, serving as a Eucharistic Minister at both Sacred Heart Church and Queen of the World Church over the years. She found great joy in participating in church activities.
She is survived by two sisters; Diane (Jeff) Fogleboch of Virginia, and Linda Gahr of Smethport, and by a brother-in-law; Mark O’Connor of St. Marys. She is also survived by two nieces and one nephew.
In addition to her parents, Marie was preceded in death by two sisters; Kathleen O’Connor and Jean Gahr.
A Mass of Christian Burial for Marie L. Gahr will be celebrated on Friday, February 6, 2026 at 11:00 AM at Queen of the World Church, 134 Queens Road, St. Marys, PA 15857 with Fr. Jeffery Noble, Pastor, as celebrant.
Family and friends will be received at the Queen of the World Church on Friday, February 6, 2026 from 10:30 AM until the time of the Mass.
Memorial Contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society.
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.krisefamilyfuneralhomes.com
Doreen M. Marzella, 83, of Ridgway, passed away on Thursday, January 29, 2026, at Penn Highlands Dubois following a lengthy illness.
She was born on October 6, 1942, in Philadelphia, the only daughter of the late Raymond and Iva Silvis Case.
On October 8, 1960, she married the late John R. Marzella, who preceded her in death on February 12, 2002.
Doreen was a proud graduate of St. Leo’s High School and a active member of St. Leos Church. She was a dedicated employee at Cliffe’s Pharmacy, where she worked for 45 years before retiring in 2013. In her free time, she enjoyed gardening and crafting. Throughout her life, Doreen cherished spending time with her family and friends.
She is survived by 3 sons; Raymond (Luanne) DeAngelo, Richard (Julee) Marzella, and David Marzella (Jill), all of Ridgway, by 8 grandchildren, and 8 great-grandchildren.
The Bingham Township Supervisors are seeking applications for a part-time Secretary/Treasurer. Experience in bookkeeping with QuickBooks, Computer skills, and Secretarial skills are needed. Duties would include:
Payroll, Quarterly Taxes, Annual W-2’s, Reconciliations, Paying & Recording Invoices, Making Deposits, Balancing Bank Statements, State Reports, DCED Reports, Grant Applications, Attending monthly meetings, Taking & Recording Minutes, providing Financial Records, Assessment Building Permits, Driveway Permits, Road Bonds & Permits, Open Record Requests, and Budgets.
