Dolores I. Hatch, 92, of 5872 Church Street, Limestone, NY
Dolores I. Hatch, 92, of 5872 Church Street, Limestone, NY, passed away Monday, December 11, 2023, surrounded by her family, at Bradford Regional Medical Center.
Born October 5, 1931, in Scio, OH, she was a daughter of the late Frederick F. and Iris M. (Mull) Speedy Sr. Dolores was a 1949 graduate at Limestone Union Free School.
On March 21, 1953, in Limestone United Methodist Church, she married Richard G. Hatch Sr., who preceded her in death on April 3, 1980.
Dolores worked at Case Cutlery before she joined the United States Army Women’s Army Corp., on April 5, 1951. During her time in the service, she worked as a clerk in the Pentagon until being honorably discharged on April 5, 1953. After her discharge she returned to work at Case Cutlery for over 40 years. During retirement, she worked part-time at K-Mart and as a clerk at the Zippo-Case Museum.
Elsie M. Klaiber, 96, a resident of Pinecrest Manor and formerly of 122 Locust Road, St. Marys, PA
Elsie M. Klaiber, 96, a resident of Pinecrest Manor and formerly of 122 Locust Road, St. Marys, PA, passed away on Saturday, December 9, 2023, at Pinecrest Manor following a lengthy illness.
She was born December 15, 1926, in St. Marys, a daughter of the late Edward and Mary Mohr Schneider.
On November 18, 1950, she married the late Raymond W. Klaiber Jr., who preceded her in death on March 19. 2019. Together they shared 69 years of love and marriage.
Elsie grew up in St. Marys and was a graduate of Central High School, class of 1944. She worked at Pure Carbon for several years as a switchboard operator until the birth of her daughter, Carol, and then became a full-time homemaker, often volunteering at the St. Mary’s Catholic school cafeteria and then Queen of the World cafeteria.
Verna W. WILLIAMS, 89, of Harrison Valley, PA, formerly of Hudson, FL and Lenox, MA
Verna W. WILLIAMS, 89, of Harrison Valley, PA, formerly of Hudson, FL and Lenox, MA, went to be with the Lord on Sunday, December 10, 2023 in UPMC Cole, Coudersport.
Born November 6, 1934, in Great Barrington, MA, she was the daughter of E. Frank and Ethel Stevens West. On July 9, 1955, in Sheffield, MA, she married Theodore Ryder Williams, Jr., who survives.
A graduate of Sheffield High School, she earned a degree in nursing from Hartford (CT) Hospital School of Nursing. After graduating from nursing school, she was employed by Sharon Hospital, Sharon, CT, as a registered nurse in the ICU for 22 years and then by Hillcrest Hospital in Pittsfield, MA in the ER department for a short time.
Verna loved the Lord and serving Him, spending time with family, gardening, sewing, and traveling.
In their retirement, Ted and Verna became adventurous. They ditched the kids and set off sailing the ocean blue for two years. When they returned to land, their love for the Lord led them to join Roving Volunteers in Christ’s Service (RVICS) for nine years, volunteering their time and talents for Christ.
Mary Virginia Devling, 101, of Galeton, PA
Mary Virginia Devling, 101, of Galeton, PA, passed away peacefully on Thursday, November 9, 2023, at her home surrounded by her loving family.
A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, December 16, 2023 at 11:00am at the First Presbyterian Church in Galeton. The Rev. Sherry Elliott will officiate.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the Hess Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Galeton.
James J. “Jim” Schutz, Sr., 75, of Grant Road, Ridgway, PA
James J. “Jim” Schutz, Sr., 75, of Grant Road, Ridgway, PA died on Saturday, December 9, 2023, at Jefferson Manor Nursing Home.
He was born on March 1, 1948, in St. Marys, a son of the late James G. and Marie Donachy Schutz.
Jim was a lifelong member of the area and graduate of St. Marys High School class of 1967. He served in the U.S Marines during the Vietnam War. Jim enjoyed his time gardening, hunting, and fishing.
Thomas T. Siegel, 66, of St. Marys, PA
Thomas T. Siegel, 66, of St. Marys, PA passed away unexpectedly at his home on Saturday, December 9, 2023 following a lengthy illness.
He was born on May 9, 1957 in St. Marys, a son of the late Albert and Vera Dippold Siegel.
Tom was a lifelong resident of the area and had worked at Exotic Metals for many years and then at Cameron Diversified for nearly 15 years as a Class A Diesetter.
Tom had a passion for the outdoors, and enjoyed hunting and raising deer. He never turned down the chance to take his motorcycle for a ride, especially his trike. Tom will be remembered as a “Cool Papa” to his four granddaughters, whom he loved spending time with. He also looked forward to turning wrenches and sharing his mechanical inclinations with his son.
Alan M Dillenbeck, 69, Kane, PA
Alan M Dillenbeck, 69, went to be with his Lord and Savior on Dec. 10, 2023 at the Lakeview Skilled Nursing Home, after a hard-fought battle with cancer.
Alan was a devoted and loving husband, father, grandfather and Papa, who cared deeply for all of his family. He was so kind and always willing to help those in need. He was born Oct. 29, 1954 in Kane and was the son of the late Ralph and Ruth (Larson) Dillenbeck.
On June 30, 2001, in the Nebo Chapel in Mt. Jewett, he married Kristin (Edinger) Elliott, who survives. Alan was a 1972 graduate from Smethport High School and a 1974 graduate from Faith School of Theology in Maine. He worked at Kane Hardwood for 34 years, retiring in 2020. He had also worked at Ethan Allen , Pennzoil and he had pastored at two churches. He loved to share his love for Jesus Christ and the Word of God.
Debra L. Sherk, 70, of 23 Chamberlain Hollow, Bradford, PA
Debra L. Sherk, 70, of 23 Chamberlain Hollow, Bradford, PA passed away Sunday, December 10, 2023, at Bradford Ecumenical Home.
Born May 20, 1953, in Bradford, she was a daughter of the late William B. and Eva Lucille (Selner) Burkett. She attended Limestone Union Free School.
On April 11, 1970, at the East End Presbyterian Church, she married Gordon A. Sherk who survives.
Debbie formerly worked at Floyd C. Fretz in the cafeteria.
Robert J. Pesce, Sr., 85, formerly of 237 Madison Street, St. Marys, PA
Robert J. Pesce, Sr., 85, formerly of 237 Madison Street, St. Marys, PA passed away peacefully Friday, December 8, 2023, at Elk Haven Nursing Home.
He was born March 13, 1938, in St. Marys, son of the late Louis and Angeline Pirazzi Pesce.
On May 2, 1959 in Queen of the World Church, he married Janet L. Leithner, who survives. They were blessed to share 64 years of marriage together.
Bob was a lifelong resident of the area and was a graduate of St. Marys High School, Class of 1957. He was employed at Keystone, where he retired.
The family of Dennis J. Bechtel Says Thanks
The family of Dennis J. Bechtel wants to extend our sincere gratitude and thanks to all those who have reached out with cards, food offerings and kind words during our time of grief.
A special thanks to The Daily Bread (Spot and Ginny) for providing the luncheon after the funeral services. May GOD Bless and Keep you all in HIS loving arms.
Sincerely,
The Bechtel Family
December star award recipients recognized at UAHS
BRADFORD, PA & OLEAN, NY – Caitlin Bachman and Katelyn Spears, RN, were announced as the Upper Allegheny Health System (UAHS), parent company of Bradford Regional Medical Center (BRMC) and Olean General Hospital (OGH), December Star Award winners.
The star award is offered monthly at BRMC and OGH to an employee who displays exceptional performance and inspires others to do the same. Members of the team are nominated for outstanding customer service, ongoing performance improvement, teamwork, communication, ownership/accountability, and excellence. Employees are selected by patients as well as co-worker nominations.
The December Star Award winner for BRMC was Caitlin Bachman, lead CT tech, CT scanning.
“Caitlin has received several positive comments from patients and co-workers commenting on how she displayed a high level of patience while conducting a CT scan on an extremely nervous patient. She is also diligent with her work and recently played an integral role in finding a possible fracture on another patient which was communicated with the radiologist who was able to use another imaging exam to confirm the fracture,” said her nomination. “She is very compassionate, empathetic, and a huge patient advocate. Caitlin does her best to ensure the patient receives the correct study for the diagnosis and is a valued member of our imaging team.”
Katelyn Spears, RN, acute care 3A, was announced as the December OGH star award winner.
“Katelyn was recently recognized to have a positive impact on a patient’s experience which commented how she continuously went above and beyond caring for a patient’s family member who has severe dementia and underwent hip surgery. Katelyn stayed after her shift to ensure that the patient was safe. She is highly skilled, patient, cares, and goes above and beyond to communicate with knowledge and empathy,” said her nomination. “I am very thankful she was on the team of providers when my family member needed care.”
Other employees who were recognized and nominated for the November star award included Eileen Smith, EVS; Patricia Houghton, respiratory care. OGH nominees were: Bridget Flannery, acute care 3A; Conrad Gadson, EVS; Bonnie Lyman, acute care 3A; Lisa Sworts, RN, subacute rehab. All five nominations for the December Star Award at OGH were made by patients.
“These ceremonies are a great way to bring everyone together and recognize the hard work of team members from all levels of the organization. This month with having all our nominations for our Olean star award come from patient nominations is a testament to how our employees can positively affect the lives of others,” said Jill Owens, MD, president, UAHS. “No gesture is too small to help make a difference for one of our patients. These nominations exemplify the work we’re doing overall to improve quality of care and change the company culture throughout UAHS.”
Star award recipients received a Chamber of Commerce gift certificate, additional paid time off, certificate of recognition as well as the coveted star award parking spot. All nominees were recognized for their hard work towards UAHS’ drive to five ¾ five-stars!
Ellen Patricia Hays, 89, Gerry, NY
Ellen Patricia Hays
Ellen Hays passed away peacefully at the age of 89 years on the morning of Sunday, Dec 10th, 2023 in Gerry, NY.
Ellen was born in Manhattan, NY to Guy V. Wilber and Mary Butler-Shaw on Nov. 14th, 1934. On June 26, 1954 she married her loving husband of 49 years, Donald J. Hays who predeceased her November 23, 2003.
Ellen went to Allegany School and lived in several places including Shinglehouse, Allegany, Olean, and Bradford. She was employed throughout her lifetime as a waitress with her mother in Bradford, worked at Corning Glass, a company called Spears, and then Line Material/McGraw Edison/Cooper Power and retired from Cooper after 35 years in 1996.
Amongst many things that she loved to do were playing cards, spending time with her friends at Cranberry Court, spending time with family, and life with her dog Bandit.
Surviving are her remaining children, Cheryl Underwood, of Chico, CA, Michael (Remilee) Hays of Russell, PA, and Donald R. (Brenda) Hays, of Oswayo, PA. She had 9 grandchildren: Tonie Columbia of Frankfort, KY, Pete Cunningham of Frankfort, KY, Dustin Underwood of Phoenix, AZ, Mike Underwood, of Chico, CA, Shawna Rothery of Tully, NY, Matt Hays of Meadville, PA, Mikela Davis of Gold, PA, Alex Hays of Oswayo, PA, and Nicholas Flamini of Oswayo, PA, and 20 great grandchildren, and 5 great-great grandchildren.
Along with her loving husband, Donald, Ellen was predeceased by; her parents; her daughter Patricia J. Cunningham; her sister, Joan (Ayers) Firkel.
Friends will be received at the Letro-McIntosh-Spink Funeral Home, Inc., 646 E. State St., on Thursday, December 14, 2023 from 11:00am to 1:00pm at which time a funeral service will be held. Deacon Matt Wenke will officiate. Burial will be in St. Bonaventure Cemetery. A memorial gathering in Ellen’s honor will be held at later date and time to be announced. Online condolences may be made at www.letromcintoshspinkfuneralhome.com
In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to any SPCA in her memory.
Jesse William Chaffee, age 91, of Elkland, PA
Jesse William Chaffee, age 91, of Elkland, PA passed away on Saturday, December 9, 2023 at his home surrounded by family.
Born January 26, 1932 in Mills, PA, he was the son of the late Clarence and Bessie (Sabin) Chaffee.
Jesse was a proud worker for the WAG Railroad. He enjoyed puzzles, reading, tinkering and building things. He was a simple man who loved his family, his grandkids and his animals.
David “Dave” Amidon, 81, a lifelong resident of Shinglehouse, PA
“loving husband, father and grandfather”
David “Dave” Amidon, 81, a lifelong resident of Shinglehouse, PA passed away with his loving family by his side on Friday, December 8, 2023, in UPMC Cole, Coudersport, after a short illness.
Born on Tuesday, June 2, 1942 in Wellsville, NY, he was a son of Lewis H. and Luella E. “Midge” Studer Amidon. On August 4, 1962 in Shinglehouse, he married Rachelann “Cookie” Bryant, who survives.
Dave was a graduate of Oswayo Valley High School in Shinglehouse. He was employed as a traveling supervisor for the former Market Basket grocery chain. He then was employed for over 34 years as a scheduler for the former Dresser Rand in Olean, NY. He later worked for Wending Creek Farms in Coudersport for almost 18 years.
Darrell E. (Sonny) Henry, age 83, Wellsboro, PA
Darrell E. (Sonny) Henry, age 83, died on December 7, 2023 at Valley View Nursing Home.
Born April 15, 1940 in Blossburg, PA and raised in Charleston Township, he was the son of the late Wayne Henry and Anna (Wagner) Henry. Darrell was the very beloved husband and soulmate of Susan (Wetmore) Henry for 42 years.
Darrell graduated from Wellsboro High School in 1958. Then he went into heavy construction with his dad, eventually becoming a diesel mechanic, then Master mechanic and sometimes equipment superintendent. He worked construction all over the United States and for many years, Susan went with him. He always was passionate about his work and loved his bulldozers and tractors.
Lydia G. Rich, 100, Warren, PA
Lydia G. Rich, 100, Warren, PA passed away on Thursday morning, December 7, 2023, surrounded by her family.
She was born in Rome, Italy on April 26, 1923. She completed her education at the University of Rome. On March 1, 1945, she married her husband, Frank Rich. She arrived in the United States in March of 1946. She retired from IPSCO, a drilling company owned by UGI Corporation, where she was employed for many years as an accountant.
Patricia Lee (Beers) Brill, 74, of Wellsboro, PA
Patricia Lee (Beers) Brill, 74, of Wellsboro, PA passed away on December 9, 2023, at Valley View Nursing Center in Montoursville.
She was born in Jorhat, Assam in India to Richard and Ann Elizabeth (Baker) Beers on January 30, 1949. She married Donald Lee Brill on January 16, 1970, having shared more than 53 years together.
Patricia was an Elementary Crisis Counselor for The Phoenixville School District in Phoenixville, PA. She was a member of The American Baptist Women’s Ministry Program and The First Baptist Church of Wellsboro for many years, where she took on many roles within the church. Aside from founding The Sleighton School Chaplaincy Program, she was also a very active volunteer within her community having sung in numerous chorus and choirs over the years and enjoyed teaching Christian education.
Cheryl Anne “Baha” Zero, 72, of Russell, PA, formerly of Goodyear, AZ
Cheryl Anne “Baha” Zero, 72, of Russell, PA, formerly of Goodyear, AZ, passed away on Saturday, December 09, 2023, surrounded by her family in her home.
She was born in Lander, Wyoming, on October 3, 1951, the daughter of the late Robert Wilson and Joyce Parks. Cheryl was a graduate of Saguaro High School in Scottsdale, AZ. She worked as a merchandiser, dental technician and loan officer, however her true passion in life was crafting. Cheryl spent her later years devoted to creating unique greeting cards that she not only shared with family and friends, but also donated to bring joy to those in need. Cheryl was a loving mother and grandmother who shared very special bonds with her children and grandchildren.
On January 17, 1987, she married Alan Zero in Tucson, AZ, and they enjoyed 36 years of blissful marriage.
1400 Toys & Gifts For Potter County Children Donated Via “Gift of Memory Program”
Kevin and Patty Dusenbury, of the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse, are grateful for the extreme generosity of many donors to their Gift of Memory program again this year. Toys and gifts in excess of 1400 items were delivered to the Christmas House in Coudersport, marking the 23rd year of the program.
Delivering the toys were Kevin and Patty and the Klesa family, who have graciously embraced the Gift of Memory program to honor their son and brother, Jon, having themselves brought almost 500 gifts and toys donated by their family and friends this year.
Dusenbury said, “We have donors from the first year that continue to donate and new donors every year. We had several donors who contributed very generous amounts of money which allowed us to shop for specific needs to purchase items for the older children”.
Dusenbury, who is the owner and funeral director of the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home in Shinglehouse and the Potter County Coroner stated, “we are once again amazed by the generosity of so many people. As we have done the last three years, we started collecting gifts early at the request of the Christmas House. We truly THANK each person who donated, assuring that many less fortunate individuals and families will have a brighter and happier Christmas. We wish everyone a beautiful, blessed and very Merry Christmas.”
Pictured with this year’s gifts are the Klesa family, volunteers from the Christmas House, and Kevin Dusenbury.
The following donated toys and gifts in memory of their loved ones: