Tri County Clippings- Page Five Hundred Ninety Four This page includes obituaries of people with connection to our three counties but not buried in them or cemetery not identified. If local cemetery is known, see the Obituaries by Cemetery section of the site.

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ALLYN –DORIS L. SMITH, 77, passed away on Thursday, December 24, 2015 at Robert Packer Hospital in Sayre, Pa. She was born at home on July 11, 1938, the daughter of Thomas Martin and Mary (Lounsbury) Allyn, and was a lifelong resident of Allyn Road in Tioga Center, N.Y. Doris has been a member of the Tioga Center United Methodist Church since 1950 and was Salutatorian of the first graduating class of Tioga Central High School in 1955. On July 26, 1958, she married Burt Smith; he predeceased her on December 13, 1998. Doris had been employed at Endicott Johnson in Owego, IBM Owego, and the family business: Smith's Grocery. She was Charter President of the Ladies Auxiliary of Tioga Fire Co. #1, 20 year member of Tioga Fire Co. #1, and Charter member of Tioga Emergency Squad. Doris is survived by her nephew, Thomas L. Wiggins; her "adopted" family, Kenny, Kathy and Thomas Cook; her sister-in-law, Beatrice and Charles Struppler; with their sons, John (Mariesa), Jeffrey, Jerrold, James, and their families; her sister-in-law, Jeanie Smith; with her children, Frank (Linda), Bernard (Debbie), Edward (Kelly), and their families; also her extended family, Douglas and Linda Kinney, MaryLou and Sean Mongan, Patrick and Patti Kinney, and their families; several great nieces and nephews, great-great nieces and nephews, great-great-great nieces and nephews; and several cousins. Doris was predeceased by her husband; her parents; half-sister, Hilda and Raymond Wiggins; nephew, Raymond A. Wiggins; niece, Vivian and Doug Horton; granddaughter, Sydney Alexandra Cook; in-laws, John G. and Blanche Smith; brother-in-law, Frank E. Smith; niece, Vickie L. Smith; and special friend, George Kinney. Family and friends are invited to visit at Richards Funeral Home, Rte. 17c West, Owego, N.Y. from 2 to 4 p.m. on Wednesday, December 30, 2015. A funeral service will begin at 4 p.m. with Pastor Mary Jean Simonin officiating. At Doris' request: In lieu of flowers that will only wither away, please consider a donation to the Tioga Center United Methodist Church; a Food Pantry of one's choice; or Stray Haven, 194 Shepard Rd. Waverly, NY. –Sayre Morning Times 12/28/2015

ROBERT L. AUSTIN, age 53 of Elmira died Friday April 3, 1981. He was an Army veteran of WWII, a 27 year employee of Remington Rand, Elmira and was employed by the Elmira Water Board. He is survived by his wife, Margaret Ames Austin, daughters: Mrs. Barbara J. McLaughlin of Elmira, Mrs. James (Linda M.) Congdon, Millerton, granddaughter, Kimberly McLaughlin, mother Alice Walburn Austin of Canton, brothers: Lawrence Austin of Elmira, Dr. Fred Austin of Los Angeles, CA, sisters: Doris Russell, Elmira, Edna Schmick of Horseheads, NY, Jane Rockwell of Pine City, NY and Mary Lou Parsons of Canton, several nieces and nephews. His father, Lawrence Austin predeceased him on Sept. 2, 1980. Funeral and committal services were held at the Olthof Funeral Home, Elmira on Saturday at 4:00 p.m. with the Rev. J. Sydney Kane officiating. Interment was in Bath National Cemetery. –Canton Independent-Sentinel 4/9/1981

BIDDLE –PHYLLIS J. (BIDDLE) MATTESON, 83, of Endicott, NY, passed away on Sunday, December 27, 2015 at the Ideal Nursing Home after an extended illness. Phyllis is survived by her husband of 63 years Earl L. Matteson, her children Dennis Matteson and Vicky (Eric) Sornberger, her special grandchildren and great grandchildren, along with several nieces and nephews. Services for Phyllis will be private and at the convenience of her family. The Gerald W. Vickery, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. 1093 West Main Street Troy, PA has been entrusted with the arrangements. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Phyllis’s memory to the Alzheimer’s Association 225 N. Michigan Ave. Fl 17 Chicago, IL or to the charity of one’s own choosing. (Born May 15, 1932)

BLOOM –SHIRLEY MAE BLOSS of Waverly, NY passed away peacefully with her family by her side at Elderwood Health care at Tioga in Waverly, NY on December 30th, 2015. She was 91 years old. She was born March 30, 1924 in Corning, NY to the late Helen Lincoln and Paul Bloom. Shirley was an avid sports fan who over the years was dedicated to Derek Jeter and the New York Yankees, Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls, and Joe Montana and the San Francisco 49ers. She was also and avid music fan could be found on her porch singing and dancing to tunes by the Beatles, Neil Diamond, Pink Floyd, the Eagles and many more. She could be found in her garden and planting flowers for a daily boquet of fresh flowers on her table. She was predceased by her husband Robert E. Bloss,and her Great grandson Kaelen Bloss. She is survived by her sister, Doris Bostwick whom she would chat with every day on the telephone. Her children Lawrence (Nita ) Bloss of Oklahoma , Suzanne Bloss Beadle of Sayre PA, Jeanne Robbins of Waverly NY, Edward ( Sandra) Bloss of Athens PA , and Mark Bloss of Waverly NY. Her Grandchildren Brian (Toni) Bloss, Christopher Keysaw, Michael (Lynette) Bloss, Melanie (Christopher) Powell, David Keysaw, Jeffrey (Christine) Bostwick, Kimberly (Brad) Kennedy, Jennifer Bostwick, Sarah (Mark) Christman, Kimberly Bloss, Mary Bloss, Kevin Bloss, Gregory (Kate) Bloss, Kati Ryder, Jonathan Bloss, Timothy Bloss, Aaron Bloss and Geoffrey Bloss . Niece Kathy Brunton of New Mexico. Nephew Ronald Bostwick of Waverly NY, and a special cousin Michelle DeWitt Varvel of Williamsport PA. 30 Great Grandchildren and one grea- great-grandchild. Shirley had a special relationship with her Great Grandaughters Sydney and Hannah Mae Powell having many slumber parties laughs and memories. At Shirley's request there will be no services, there will be a private family celebration of Shirley's life with a family dinner. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations forwarded to the Humane Society and Stray Haven in Waverly as Shirley was faithful in her donations to all organizations involving animals. Shirley had a great love for Dogs and Cats and all animals alike. –Sayre Morning Times 1/2/2016

JOHN W. BRIMMER, 70, of Harrison Valley, PA, died Tuesday, January 5, 2016 in his home. Born November 9, 1945, in Troupsburg, NY, he was the son of Warren A. and Merna M. Cornish Brimmer. On June 6, 1970, in Potter Brook, he married the former Vicky E. Stevens, who survives. He was employed by Eberle Tannery in Westfield, Ulysses Lumber, and Bi-Con Services, retiring in 2007. Surviving besides his wife, Vicky, are two children, Candy (Mike Lewis) McNeely of Knoxville and Warren (Jamie) Brimmer of Harrison Valley; five grandchildren, Kirsten McNeely, Hunter McNeely, Chloe Brimmer, Wyatt Brimmer, and Austin Brimmer; five sisters, Margaret Huggins of Westfield, Katherine (William) Van Dusen of Cowanesque, Joan (Roy) Billings of Wellsville, NY, Betty (Leon) Payne of Harrison Valley, and Ann (Dewitt) Haskins of Whitehall; a brother, Michael (Leta) Brimmer of Harrison Valley; a sister-in-law, Debbie (Dale) Schoonover of Knoxville; two uncles, Chester Cornish of Harrison Valley and Edward Cornish of Wellsville, NY; an aunt, Elizabeth Painter of Wellsville, NY; nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by a sister, Marion E. Courtright. Friends may call Friday, January 8th from 2:00 - 4:00 and 7:00 - 9:00 PM at the Olney Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Ulysses, PA, where Funeral Services will be held on Saturday at 11:00 AM. The Rev. David R. Brelo will officiate. Burial will be in Mills Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Harrison Township Volunteer Fire Company, 112 E. Tannery St., Harrison Valley, PA. –Elmira Star-Gazette 1/7/2016

BROTZMAN –ELSIE L. HALL, 78, of Tunkhannock passed away at the Golden Living Center, Tunkhannock on Jan. 2, 2016. She was born in Gibson, Pa on Aug. 1, 1937 and she was raised on the family farm in Laceyville by the late Gideon and Ruth Tyler Brotzman and her sister Harriette Brotzman Bartron. Elsie attended Laceyville High School and was a veterinarian assistant. Elsie enjoyed collecting salt and pepper shakers, she had a love for all animals, and she enjoyed listening to Elvis Presley. In addition to her parents Elsie is preceded in death by her first husband Robert Jackson Elliott and her second husband Sydney G. Hall. Elsie is survived by her two daughters RondaLin and husband David Mooers of Tunkhannock, Jacqueline and husband Robert Yesuvida of Mehoopany and her three sons Robert and wife Tonya Elliott of Rome, Russell and Mary Joe Elliott of Springville, and Thomas and wife Mary Elliott of Athens. Elsie is also survived by a sister Harriette Brotzman Bartron of South Carolina, and 21 grandchildren and 21 great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be held Monday Jan. 4th at 10:30am at the Harding-Litwin Funeral Home 123 W. Tioga St. Tunkhannock with Pastor Charles Bishop of the Elk Lake Community Church officiating. Friends may call from 9:30am until the time of the service. Interment will be held at a later time at the Lacey St. Cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Indraloka Animal Sanctuary, P.O Box 155, Mehoopany, Pa. –Funeral home obit contributed by Carol Brotzman

FRANCIS ‘JOHN’ BULL of Hillside Drive, Towanda Pa., passed away Dec. 29, 2015 at the Robert Packer Hospital in Sayre, Pa. Born April 5, 1943 in Towanda, he was the son of the late Emerson R. and Evelyn Hawkins Bull. Surviving are his daughter, Michelle Walbridge in San Antonio Fla., grandson, Payson Walbridge; granddaughter Audrey Walbridge; also of Fla., and several nieces and nephews. Beside his parents, John was predeceased by Malcolm Bull, Marjorie Bull Weaver and Lawrence A Weaver. Early in life, John was employed by Endicott Johnson Shoes in Mildred, Pa. and Endicott, N.Y. He then went to work for Ribstone Silos of Troy for many years and Burgess Well Drilling until the time of his retirement. John was naturally athletic; enjoying bowling, snowmobiling, and baseball during his lifetime. He played baseball in his youth for various baseball teams in Wysox. He was also an avid outdoorsman, hunting and fishing with many family members and friends until the time of his death. As he got older, John loved passing the time playing cards and games with family and caregivers with his best pal Smokey the cat, on his lap. A private funeral service will be held at the convenience of the family with no calling hours. If you wish to make a memorial in John's memory, please direct it to the Bradford County Humane Society in honor of his many animal friends. –Towanda Daily Review 1/10/2016

CALKINS –MARY CALKINS FOSTER KOZDEMBA of Cortland, NY passed away January 8, 2016, in the Cortland Regional Medical Center, Cortland, NY. Born in Towanda, PA May 2, 1928, daughter of Mary and Leo Calkins. A graduate of St. Agnes high school, Towanda, PA. She retired from Westinghouse Electric in Horseheads, NY. Mary was a member of St Patrick's Catholic Church for many years, serving as Eucharistic Minister. A long-time volunteer in the Soup Kitchen, Food Pantry and Samaritan Center. She is survived by two sons, Kevin (Terri) Foster and Andy (Joette) Foster and daughters Lynn (Bob) Ziegenfuss, Julie (John) Foster and Eileen (Craig) Allen. Also by 13 grandchildren, 2 great grandchildren, several nieces and nephews. Mary was predeceased by husbands Earl Foster, Anthony Kozdemba, and by all brothers and sisters, including Helen (Dean) Place of Elmira. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 1:00 p.m. Monday at St. Mary's Catholic Church, Cortland, NY with Fr. Joseph Zareski presiding. Friends are invited to call from 11:30 am - 12:45 p.m. prior to the service at the. Wright-Beard Funeral Home. 9 Lincoln Ave. Cortland, NY –Elmira Star-Gazette 1//9/2016

RICHARD J. ‘DICK’ CAMPBELL, age 87, passed away peacefully on Friday, January 8, 2016 at the Chemung County Nursing Facility. Dick was born in Elmira NY, a son of Garrett and Frances (Thatcher) Campbell. He was predeceased by his wife Nona; sisters, Frances Hitchcock and Irene Ketel; grandson, Earl K. Plate. Dick is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Norina and Earl Plate; son and daughter-in-law, Earl "Duke" and Robin Campbell; granddaughters, Nicole (Owen) Newkirk, Katrina (Ryan) Marsh, Brenda (Rick) Smith and Brandy Lewis; sister Cynthia Webb; brother Gerritt Dexter "Lad" Campbell, Jr.; seven great-grandchildren. Dick retired as a mechanic from Bendix after 30 years of service. He was co-owner of Dad's Den, former member of the Eagles Club and Moose Club. Dick enjoyed gardening, camping with family and loved antique cars. He will always be remembered as a thoughtful and caring man. Private family services will be held. Those wishing may remember Dick with a donation to Meals on Wheels of Chemung County, 150 Fox Street, Elmira NY. The Campbell family would like to extend their sincere thanks to the 2nd floor staff at the Chemung County Nursing Facility for the wonderful care provided to Dick over the last 11 months. Arrangements by McInerny Funeral Home. –Elmira Star-Gazette 1/12/2016

RUSSELL C. CAMPBELL, age 84, of Arnot, PA, died Saturday, December 26, 2015 at his home. He was born January 18, 1931 in Ansonia, PA; a son, of Glenn and Edna (Kennedy) Campbell. Russell was married to Beverly (Bellinger) Campbell for 59 years. He was employed as a bridge foreman for PennDot. Russell was a member of the Arnot Presbyterian Church, the Arnot Sportsmen's Club, the Blossburg V.F.W., collected Coke memorabilia, gas pumps, and working on his 1954 Mercury. He enjoyed old car shows, and planting flowers. Russell was a US Army veteran serving from 1952 to 1954 in the Korean War. Russell is survived by his wife, Beverly; a son, Glenn Campbell of Blossburg, PA; 3 daughters and sons-in-law, Debra and Terry Wescott of Elgin, SC, Robin Perla of Arnot, PA, and Jacqueline and Thomas Edwards of Fort Wayne, IN; 8 grandchildren; 14 great grandchildren; 2 great great grandchildren; 2 brothers; Glen B. (Betty Cross) Campbell, of Wellsboro, PA, Leon and Sandra Love of Horseheads, NY; a sister, Carolyn O'Connell of Gang Mills, NY; a special friend, Frank Sherant of Arnot, PA and a canine companion, Needles. He was predeceased by 2 brothers, Frederick and Gordon Campbell; 2 sisters, Alice Cole and Margaret Campbell. A Memorial Service will be announced at a later date. Memorial donations may be made to the Arnot Presbyterian Church, c/o Lois Kirkendall, P. O. Box 61, Arnot, PA. Buckheit Funeral Chapel and Crematory, Inc., 637 S. Main St., Mansfield, PA is assisting the family. –Elmira Star-Gazette 12/29/2015

STEWART E. CHAMBERLAIN, 90, of Enola, Pa., passed away Tuesday, Dec. 22, 2015, at the West Shore Hospital, Mechanicsburg, Pa. He was the loving husband of the late Doris Tobin Chamberlain. He was born on March 2, 1925, in East Smithfield, Pa. Mr. Chamberlain was a veteran of the US Army and was a member of Enola Emmanuel United Methodist Church. Surviving Stewart are his son, Brian Chamberlain; daughter, Tracy Farner (Don); sister, Marlene Devoe (Jim); three grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; one great great-grandchild; and several nieces and nephews. In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by a brother, Ed Larcom and sister, Maxine McCormick; and mother, Lillian Chamberlain. Services are at the convenience of the family. Arrangements by Cremation Society of Pennsylvania, Inc. –Towanda Daily Review 12/27/2015

RICKIE L. CLAPPER, 66, of Montrose, PA, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, December 27, 2015 at Regional Hospital, Scranton, PA. He was born on December 5, 1949 in Orlando, FL, to the late Donald W. and Nora M. (Grissinger) Clapper. His wife of 48 years, Bonnie J. (Kingsley) Clapper, survives. Also surviving are his daughter and son-in-law, Tammie and Douglas Decker, Endicott, NY, granddaughter, Ashlie Clapper, Wilkes Barre, PA, two great grandchildren, Caden and Aurora Educaitis, sister and brother-in-law, Pamala and Rich Fisher, three brothers and sisters-in-law, Ronnie and Karen Clapper, Randy and Tina Clapper, Donald Clapper and significant other, Becki Troy, sister-in-law, Janet Clapper, many nieces, nephews and cousins. He was predeceased by his two brothers, Sidney and Roger Clapper. Rickie graduated from the Montrose Area High School, he soon went to work there as a custodian, and retired 45years later as Administrator for Grounds, Building and Transportation. Rickie was a loving husband, father and grandfather who enjoyed traveling. A Funeral Service will be held at 2 p.m. Wednesday, December 30, 2015 at the Daniel K. Regan Funeral Home with Rev. Richard Spering, Elk Lake, PA, officiating. Interment will be in the Fairdale Cemetery, Jessup Twp., PA. Visitations will be from 12 to 2 p.m. prior to the service. Donations in Rickie’s name can be made to the American Heart Assoc., 71 North Franklin St., Wilkes-Barre, PA. –Funeral Home Notice contributed by Carol Brotzman

TERRY D. CLAPPER, age 52, of Clapper Hill (Laceyville), passed away unexpectedly at his home on Thanksgiving Day, November 26, 2015 following a long period of declining health. Terry was born on December 22, 1962 in Meshoppen, PA the son of Rita Stine and the late Daniel O. Clapper Jr. Terry graduated from the Wyalusing Valley High School with the Class of 1980. After graduation he worked for Tyler Memorial Hospital as an orderly in the operating room. Terry served his country with the United States Air Force from 1983-1988. He was stationed in Baltimore, MD and served at the Iraklion Air Station in Crete, Greece. After serving he was an EMT with the Wyalusing Valley Ambulance Association for three years from the fall of 1993 to June 1997 during this time he worked for Arrow United in Wyalusing. Terry is survived by his mother, Rite Stine Clapper of Clapper Hill, PA; long-time good friend Tom Loven of Scranton, PA; siblings Jack and Sharlene Clapper of Williamsport, PA; Linda Krukowski of Clapper Hill, PA; and Jerry Clapper (Tina Bennett) of Clapper Hill, PA. Also surviving are many nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts and uncles as well as many military and Facebook friends that kept him company during his declining health. Terry was preceded in death by his father Daniel O. Clapper who passed away on October 20, 1994. A private family memorial service will be held at the convenience of the family with Father Marshall officiating. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Disabled American Vets, PO Box 14301, Cincinnati, OH. Funeral arrangements are entrusted with Sheldon Funeral Homes, 459 Main Street, Laceyville, PA. –Funeral Home notice contributed by Carol Brotzman

RONALD T. “BUD” COOK, 88, of West Warren, Pa. passed away on Tuesday, Jan. 5, 2016. Bud, as he was affectionately known by his family and friends, was born on the family farm on May 19, 1927. A son of the late John Tyler and Aline (Beckwith) Cook. He was a graduate of the LeRaysville High School class of 1944. On Nov. 19, 1954 he married Joanne Chaffee. Together they shared 39 years of marriage until her passing on Dec. 28, 1993. For many years, Bud owned and operated the family farm. Bud was also a meticulous woodsman, and a Steward of the Lukens, (a large tract of timber near West Warren.) He enjoyed bowling, golfing, hunting, and traveling the country side. Many will remember him as he played on the West Warren baseball team with the Tri-County league. Bud is survived by his daughters and son-in-law, Jill and Jay Edwards of Owego, Roberta Seeley of Warren Center, Pa.; his sons and daughters-in-law, Scott and Lynn Cook of West Warren, Pa., Roger and Janean Cook of Nichols, N.Y.; his sisters, Carol "Cal" Cook of Rome, Pa., Alice C. "Tink" Brown of Rome, Pa.; a brother, Bernard "Edie" Cook of Warren Center, Pa.; a sister-in-law, Sherry Lunger, of Fla.; his special grandchildren, Jocelyn (Ian) Mumbulo, Jolene (Adam) Williams, Amanda (Myron) Eastman, Kaleena (Joe) Dughi, Tyler (Cathy) Cook, Nate Seeley, Andy Seeley, Daniel Seeley and Reed Cook; his great-grandchildren, Zachary, Austin, Jared Mumbulo; Edwin, Charles, Gerald Eastman; Caleb and Kara Dughi. Joanne's aunt, Yvonne Cole, of Nichols; several nieces, nephews, cousins and their families also survive. Family and friends are invited to attend a period of visitation from 2-4 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 10 at the Sutfin Funeral Chapel, 273 S. Main St., Nichols, N.Y. and from 10–11 a.m. on Monday, Jan. 11. Funeral services and a celebration of Bud's life will follow at 11 a.m. Those who wish may kindly consider a memorial contribution to Northeast Bradford Area Little League (NEBALL), Bud's home field, when he played with the West Warren Ball Team, c/o Ken Crown, 290 Woodland Lake Rd., Rome, PA. –Towanda Daily Review 1/8/2016

RONALD N. CRAIG, 67, of East Troy, PA, went to be with his Lord and Savior on Tuesday, December 29, 2015 from his home surrounded by his loving family. He was the loving husband of Rebecca A. “Becky” (Van Noy) Craig. The couple married June 29, 1965 and had 50 happy years together. Ron was born on August 2, 1948 in Elmira, NY, son of the late Glenn L. and Emily June (Seymour) Craig. He was a 1966 graduate of Troy High School and was a Construction and Maintenance Supervisor at Cummings Lumber until his retirement in 2010. Ron loved the Lord and was a founding member of Grace Community Church of Troy. He was gifted with his hands and readily used that gift to serve others. Ron was a true outdoorsman. He loved hunting and fishing, marksmanship and archery, working with wood, and just being “On the Hill’. Ron was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, and friend; he will be greatly missed. Ron is survived by his wife Becky, his daughters Wendy K. Schultheis (Rich Bruce) of Clifton Heights, PA, and Tracey L. (Tad) Culkin of East Troy, his beloved grandchildren: Caden Brock Schultheis, Zachary Thaddeus Culkin, Madison Schultheis, Jacob Culkin, Izabelle Culkin, and Zadie Culkin, his brothers and sisters: Glenn (Gail) Craig of Melbourne, FL, Linda (Dale) McClelland of Gillett, PA, Carolyn Craig of Troy, Darla (Neil) Moore of Elmira, several nieces and nephews, along with his “deer” friend Bill Wilkinson. Ron was preceded in death by his parents and his in-laws Jacob and Doris Van Noy. Family and friends are welcome to gather from 1:00-2:00 pm on Saturday, January 2, 2016 at the First Baptist Church of Troy, 579 Canton Street Troy, PA. The memorial service to honor Ron’s life will be held at the conclusion of the visitation at 2:00 pm on January 2nd at the church with Pastor Dylan Pepper officiating. The Gerald W. Vickery, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. 1093 West Main Street Troy, PA has been entrusted with the arrangements. Memorial donations be made in Ron’s memory in lieu of flowers to Grace Community Church c/o D. Pepper Box 91 Troy, PA or to Guthrie Hospice 421 Tomahawk Drive Towanda, PA. –Funeral home notice

DIBBLE –MARIJANE AMES, age 85 of Horseheads, NY. She was born May 31, 1930 in Elmira, NY, daughter of the late Fred and Myrtle Dibble and passed away Sunday, December 27, 2015 at Arnot Ogden Medical Center. In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her 5 sisters. She is survived by her sister, Shirley Hall of Elmira; children: Barbara Buczek and Sandra Catron both of Elmira, Michael Ames and David (Bonita) Ames both of Blackrock, AR, Norma (Joseph) Fortier of Horseheads and Howard (Kerry) Ames of Elmira; 12 grandchildren; 15 great grandchildren along with several nieces and nephews. Marijane retired from Fairway Spring in Elmira. At her request, there will be no services. Walter J. Kent Funeral Home is assisting the family. –Elmira Star-Gazette 12/29/2015

ALAN V. DILDINE, age 54 of Millport, NY passed away on Friday January 1, 2016. Alan was born May 13, 1961 in Elmira, NY the son of the late Leo and Mary Sopp Dildine. In addition to his parents, Alan was pre-deceased by his nephew Vinnie Stafford and his brother and sister-in-law Louis R. and Elizabeth M. "Betty" Bellinger Dildine. Alan loved his family and they were his primary focus in life. Alan is survived by his loving wife Rena M. Dildine; his beloved children Jessica "Jessie Girl" & Junior Parker of Breesport, NY, Zac Alan Dildine & George Coolbaugh Jr. of Elmira, NY, and Candice Dildine & James R. West II of Elmira Heights, NY; cherished grandchildren: Merissa Rose Parker and Jaxson Alan Parker; sisters and brothers-in-law: Jeanne & Ed Stafford of Florida and Annette & James Valentine of Arizona; mother-in-law: Rosalie Misuraca of Horseheads, NY; brother-in-law: Mikey Stonemetz of Elmira Heights, NY; loving nieces and nephews Kim Waugh(Gerry), Christy Hager(Billy), Karrie Lewis (Matt), and Chad Dildine. Alan had many caring cousins and friends that he enjoyed spending time with. He was a Banquet Chef at Pierce's Restaurant and later became the Head Chef at Pippin's Restaurant and worked at The Watkins Glen Track catering many events. He worked at Ferrario Ford/Lincoln as a painter in the body shop prior to his disability. Alan enjoyed hunting, fishing and trapping, loved animals, music, and was an avid horticulturist and especially loved gladiolus. Halloween has always been his favorite time of the year, his creativity brought everyone to visit his display. He volunteered many years participating in various events at the Elmira Heights softball fields. It was Alan's wishes that there be no public calling hours and that private funeral services will be held at the Lynch Funeral Home, 318 W. Broad St., Horseheads, NY at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers please send a donation to your local animal shelter. –Elmira Star-Gazette 1/6/2016

DOAN –LUCINDA M. ‘CINDY’ LANE, 54, of Harrison Valley PA, a native of Knoxville, died Thursday, December 31, 2015 in Philadelphia. Born August 26, 1961, in Wellsboro, she was the daughter of Carroll and Marie Spencer Doan. On August 1, 1981, in Butler Hill Baptist Church, she married Rodney E. Lane, who survives. A 1979 graduate of Cowanesque Valley High School, she was employed as a mail carrier by the US Postal Service. She and her husband owned and operated Lane Farms. Cindy was a member of God's New Beginnings Church in Harrison Valley, Order of the Eastern Star #95 in Ulysses, and the Farm Bureau. Surviving besides her husband, Rodney, are four children, Kristie Lane, Kelli (James) Lamoureux, J. Wade Lane, and Jacob Lane, all of Harrison Valley; six grandchildren; her mother, Marie Doan Field of Knoxville; four sisters, Michelle Miles of Knoxville, Yvonne (Brian) Zerby of Elkland, Brenda (Chris) Kirchner of VA, and Charlotte (Michael) Hall of VA; nieces and nephews; her caregiver, Lois Neal of Wellsboro and a host of friends. She was predeceased by her father. Friends may call Sunday, January 3rd from 2:00 - 4:00 and 7:00 - 9:00 PM at the Olney Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Ulysses, PA, where Funeral Services will be held on Monday at 11:00 AM. The Rev. David Brelo will officiate. Burial will be in Whites Corners Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Harrison Township Volunteer Fire Company, 112 E. Tannery St., Harrison Valley, PA or God's New Beginnings Church, 104 East Main St., Harrison Valley, PA. –Elmira Star-Gazette 1/2/2016

WILLIAM C. ENGELKE, JR., age 83 of Mud Creek Road, Troy, passed away Tuesday, December 29, 2015 at home. Bill was born June 10, 1932 in Chester, Delaware County, PA son of the late William C. and Lillian Mae (Baxter) Engelke, Sr. following graduation from high school he enlisted in the US Air Force and served his country until his retirement following 37 years of service with the US Air Force and US Air Force Reserves. Family and friends are invited to call from 1 to 2 PM Monday, January 4, 2016 at the Gerald W. Vickery, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc. 1093 West Main Street, Troy PA. His funeral will be held there at 2 PM with Pastor Mark A. Steckiel officiating. Interment with full military honors will follow in Glenwood Cemetery, Troy. In addition to serving his country Bill was very active on his farm. He was a crop and beef farmer on the Mud Creek Road and enjoyed his farm in the country. His memberships included the Fellowship Bible Church of Troy, Air Force Sergeants Association and liked deer hunting. Bill will be missed greatly by his family and many friends. Survivors include his children, William C. Engelke, III of Troy, James T. Engelke (Leslie) of Green Lane, PA, Elizabeth A. Engelke (Mike) of Kunkletown, PA, Carl R. (Jessica) Engelke of Souderton, PA, step-children, Bonnie Jean (Curtis) Weigner of Lansdale, PA, Sandra Elaine Stevens of Tipp City, OH, seven grandchildren, thirteen great-grandchildren, sisters, Joyce (Dick) Dickerson, Doris (Richard) Kuhlman, many nieces, nephews and friends. Bill was predeceased by his parents, both wives, Margaret Shaw Crystle Engelke, Sylvia Marie Crockett Ludwig Engelke, a sister, Mae VanEss, brother-in-law, Neil VanEss III and his son-in-law, Chauncy Stevens. Memorials are directed to Fellowship Bible Church, 121 Mud Creek Road, Troy, PA. –Funeral home notice 12/31/2015

MICHAEL FORYS - A heart of gold stopped beating, two willing hands at rest, God broke our hearts to prove to us…He only takes the best ~ Michael Forys, 62, of LeRaysville, Pa passed away on Thursday, December 24, 2015 following complications during his courageous battle with cancer. Michael was born on May 11, 1953 in Sayre, Pa a son of Geraldine (Ayers) and the late Fred Forys. He was a graduate of Northeast Bradford High School class of 1971. On June 4, 1977 he married Lynn Chaffee and together they made LeRaysville their home. He was a retired employee of DuPont following over 30 years of service. Mike enjoyed the peaceful reflections of being outdoors and spending time on his 4-wheeler. He was an avid New York Giants fan, enjoyed golfing ~ although his greatest pleasure was being surrounded by his girls and his pride and joy ~ his grandchildren. Mike will be greatly missed by his loving wife of 38 years, Lynn; his daughters: Kelly and her husband Matthew Donahue of Frederick, Maryland; Kim and her husband Todd Legg of Brackney, Pa; Kari and her husband Taylor Smith of Montrose, Pa; his special grandchildren: Weston Donahue, Zachary and Colin Legg; Ava Bell, Ayden and Alexander Smith; his mother Geraldine Forys of LeRaysville, Pa; sisters: Teresa (Jim) Savage of Friendsville, Pa; Cindy Robinson of Rome, Pa; Mary Souto of LeRaysville, Pa; his mother-in-law: Minnie Chaffee of Rome, Pa; brother-in-law and sister-in-law: Brian and Loretta Chaffee of Rome, Pa; several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins also survive. Michael was predeceased by his father Fred Forys and his father-in-law: Ellis “Pete” Chaffee. Dad, until we meet again, may you find comfort in the arms of angel. Family and friends are invited to attend a period of visitation on Tuesday, December 29th from 2 – 5 pm at the Sutfin Funeral Chapel, 273 S. Main St., Nichols. A memorial service and celebration of Mike’s life will follow at 5pm. Those who wish may kindly consider a memorial contribution to the Bradford County Humane Society, PO Box 179, Ulster, Pa in loving memory of Michael Forys. –Towanda Daily Review 12/27/2015

REV. EDWARD KREWSON FURMAN of Wesley Village, Pittston, passed away on Jan. 5, 2016. He was born February 11, 1927 in Mehoopany, PA to the late Hobart and Francis Krewson Furman. He graduated from Mehoopany High School in 1945 and enlisted in the United States Army, where he served in the 82nd Airborne Division in Fort Bragg, NC. On January 10, 1947 he married the late Betty Lou Henry, who passed on January 1, 2015. For more than 25 years they operated a dairy farm in Mehoopany. He and Betty Lou also ran a farm vacation business that gave them an opportunity to meet people from around the world and build lifelong friendships. After selling their farm Ed enrolled in Keystone Junior College and graduated in 1980 with an Associate in Arts degree. He continued his educational pursuits at Wilkes University where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in 1983. Following graduation he answered the Call of God and attended Drew University where he completed his Master of Divinity in 1987. While attending college he and Betty Lou volunteered at Sky Lake Methodist camp, which included taking young people on backpacking treks in the northeastern United States. Ed served as an ordained minister in the United Methodist Church, primarily in Wyoming Conference, including time at Lake Como and Jermyn. In 1989, Ed accepted an assignment as a missionary to Africa and spent most of the period from 1989 to 1996 in Zimbabwe where he employed his love of agriculture to assist teaching and development of multiple farming activities. He also supported the development of Africa University which today has a scholarship program named in honor of Ed and Betty Lou to recognize their support to the University. During the time Ed was running his farm, he was a member of various agricultural organizations, a Mehoopany Township supervisor for 12 years, and a member and officer of the FWM Volunteer Fire Company. As a member of the Mehoopany United Methodist church, he served as a trustee and a member of the Men’s Club among other positions. He was also a member of the Tunkhannock Rotary Club where he served as president and was named a Paul Harris Fellow. After returning from Zimbabwe he and Betty Lou volunteered at ECHO, an agricultural non-profit in North Fort Myers, FL. Ed is survived by three children: Jerome (Patty) of Pottstown, Karen Wargo of Mehoopany, and Carolyn 'Jeannie' Furman of Oshkosh, Wis.; and nine grandchildren: Justin (Amanda) Furman, Joshua Furman, Jennifer (Phillip) Rupert, Andrew Wargo, Rebecca Peterson, Francis (Karen) Dymond, Shane (Rev. Renae) Dymond, Preston (Michelle) Dymond and Scott (Emily) Dymond. He also leaves behind 18 great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren. He is also survived by brother Clifton Furman and sisters-in-law: Elsie Fay Hamilton, Ruth (Webb) Comfort, and Kay (Al) Dymond; and sisters-in-law: Lenore Henry, Cindy Henry, and Nancy Henry; he was pre-deceased by sister-in-law Clara Mae(Irving) Witter; by brothers-in-laws Charles Daniel Henry Jr., Carl Henry, and Walter Henry; and James Hamilton. Additionally, he is survived by numerous nieces and nephews. The family would like to thank the staff at Wesley Village for their support, assistance and prayers. Special thanks to Marilyn Kilbourn for her help and support and also to Sacred Heart Hospice. A celebration of Ed’s life will be held on Friday, January 22, 2016 at the Sheldon-Kukuchka Funeral Home Inc., 73 W. Tioga St., Tunkhannock, from 6 to 8 p.m., with a memorial service on Saturday, January 23, 2016 at 10:30 a.m. from the Mehoopany United Methodist Church with Pastor Joshua Yorks and Pastor Renae Dymond, granddaughter of Rev. Furman, officiating. Rev. Furman requested that in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Furman Endowed Scholarship at Africa University. Checks can be made payable to Africa University and sent to Africa University Development Office, PO Box 340007, Nashville, TN. Please indicate that donation is for the Furman Endowed Scholarship at Africa University. (Son of Hobart Waller and Frances Krewson Furman)

GAIR –ANNA ‘NANCY’ MCCRACKEN, 90, of Muncy, died Thursday Jan. 7, 2016 at Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation Center in Muncy. Born Aug. 21, 1925 in Williamsport, she was a daughter of the late George W. and Anna J. (Stahl) Gair. She married the late Perry A. McCracken, who preceded her in death on July 31, 1991. Nancy was a member of the Hughesville borough voter election board, and was a former president of the American Legion Auxiliary. In her spare time she enjoyed volunteering at the Muncy Valley Hospital. She is survived by a son, Patrick W. (Bonnie) McCracken, of Hughesville; two daughters, Cathy J. (Michael) McCoy, of Muncy and Kim E. McCracken, of Leesburg, Fla.; five grandchildren, Amy McCoy, Jennifer Mausteller, Aaron McCoy, Megan McCracken and Ashley McCracken; and two great-grandchildren, Dylan and Kensie Mausteller. A memorial service will be held 11 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 12, at Moreland Baptist Church, 118 Moreland Baptist Road, Muncy, with Rev. Robert Ingram officiating. Friends may call from 10 to 11 a.m. Tuesday, at the church. In lieu of flowers, the family request that memorial contributions be made to McCarty-Thomas Funeral Home, 557 E. Water St., Hughesville, PA to help defray funeral expenses.  –Funeral home notice contributed by Carol Brotzman

GALLIPEAU –VIRGINIA M. ‘GINNY’ RAYNOR, 67, from Sayre, PA passed away at home with her family by her side on Thursday, December 31, 2015. She was born on December 30, 1948 Camden, NJ, the daughter of James and Virginia Mayfield Gallipeau. Ginny was an LPN for over 40 years and she loved nursing. She retired in 2010 from the Highlands Nursing Home, LaPorte, PA. Ginny loved spending time with her family and friends, especially her grandchildren. And she recently got to welcome her first great-grandson, Koby, whom she adored. She was a collector of antiques, especially dolls. Ginny enjoyed attending auctions all over in search of any type of antiques that caught her attention. She is predeceased by the love of her life Edwin Raynor and her father James Gallipeau. Ginny is survived by her daughter and son-in-law Casandra “Casey” and Stephen Clinton and son and daughter-in-law Scott and Theresa Raynor of NJ, grandchildren Jamie Raynor and Glenna Benson of Lowman, NY, Codey Raynor of Chemung, NY, Adrianah Clinton of Chemung, NY and Conrad, Samuel and Shane Raynor of NJ, great-grandson Koby Raynor, her Yorkie companion GiGi, and the dog she rescued Jack. At Virginia’s request, there will be no calling hours or services. The family is being assisted by Jay E. Lowery Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc., Athens, PA. –Funeral Home obit contributed by Carol Brotzman

GARRISON –GWENDOLYN LUCILLE (GARRISON) VINESKI passed away peacefully at 91 years of age on Dec. 29, 2015 in Loma Linda, Calif. She was the daughter of Herbert and Helen (Wilson) Garrison of Troy Pa., where she grew up and graduated from Troy High School in 1942. She graduated from Penn State University and worked in Harrisburg as a dietician before her marriage to Robert R. Vineski, Esq. in 1949. They started a family in Troy in 1950 and later moved to Canton in 1956. She was a devoted mother and focused her life on her family and friends. She is survived by her children, Thomas (Nancy) of Corona, Calif., Robert (Sony) of Troy, John of Canton and Mary (Bruce) Samson of Yucaipa, Calif.; granddaughter, Lauren (Erik) and great-grandson, Parker of Poway, Calif. A celebration of Gwendolyn's life will be held at the convenience of the family later in 2016 in Troy, Pa. She was predeceased by her parents, Herbert in 1969, Helen in 1984 and her husband Robert in 1996. Gwen knew joy and happiness in her life and inspired those who knew and loved her to know the same. Memorials may be directed to the chairty of your choice in Gwen's memory. –Towanda Daily Review 1/7/2016

WAYNE F. HENDERSHOT, 88 of Altoona, formerly of Towanda, passed away on Jan. 1, 2016 at UPMC Altoona Hospital. He was born June 20, 1927 in Taylor, Pa., the son of Clyde Oliver and Ella Weller (Vaughn) Hendershot. He was preceded in death by his parents and these siblings, Claude Hendershot, Gerry Manley and Doris Jones. He is survived by loving wife, Carole A. (Maynard) Hendershot of Altoona whom he married in Elmira, N.Y. on Feb. 1, 1958 and these children: Lon Hendershot (Jody) of Santaquin, Utah, Jim Hendershot (Becky) of Morgan, Utah, Greg Hendershot (Sally) of Pomona, Kan., Lisa Hendershot of Altoona and Mark Hendershot (Amanda) of Roosevelt, Utah. He is also survived by 20 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren. He was the brother of Blair Hendershot (Joan) of Webster, N.Y. He was a Navy and Merchant Marines Veteran of WWII. After Wayne's service in the military he went back to school and received his diploma, graduating with his sister Gerry. From there he took a job with Sun Oil and worked on a tanker ship. He loved the ocean, gardening and tending to his bonsai trees. He learned tatting, which is the skill of weaving fine thread into lace, from his mother when he was 12 years old. Wayne belonged to "The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints." He devoted his life to the gospel of Jesus Christ serving in many callings in the church. He demonstrated Christ-like love to others and set a fine example to his family and friends. He was a loving son, brother, father, and friend who has made a difference in the lives of many. Family will receive friends from 5 to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 5 and from 10 until 11 a.m., the time of service on Wednesday, Jan. 6 at The Good Funeral Home, Inc., 108 Alto Reste Park, Altoona, PA. Committal will be in Alto Reste Park Cemetery. Graveside military rites will be by the Blair County Veterans Honor Guard. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made in Wayne's name, c/o The Good Funeral Home Inc., 108 Alto Reste Park, Altoona, PA. –Towanda Daily Review 1/4/2016

HEUSER –JUDITH E. BRADLEY, age 75 of Horseheads, NY passed away on Friday December 25, 2015. Judith was born July 19, 1940 in Gaines, PA the daughter of the late Gorden and Beatrice Hill Heuser. She attended and graduated from Thomas A. Edison High School Class of 1958. Judith married her husband Donald A. Bradley on March 28, 1970. She retired from St. Joseph's Hospital where she worked in the Rehabilitation Department, Outpatient Services, and the Business Office. Judith was a member of New Beginnings United Methodist Church, Order of The Eastern Star Excelsior Southern Lights Chapter, Daughters of The Nile, and The Red Hats Society. She also volunteered at The Arnot Ogden Medical Center. In addition to her parents, Judith was pre-deceased by her brothers Clark Heuser, Gary Heuser, and Ernie Heuser and a special aunt, Beverly LeVesque. Judith loved her family and friends and treasured the time she spent with them. Mrs. Bradley is survived by her husband Donald Bradley; her children Mark (Mitch) D'Angelo of Elmira, NY, Tammy (Joe) Romero of Tampa, Florida, Paula (Tim) Fish of Horseheads, NY, Gordy Bradley of Elmira, NY, and Shawn (Kate) Bradley of Horseheads, NY; 10 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren; brother: Tracy (Joyce) Heuser of Elmira, NY; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law: Barry (Pat) Bradley of Gillett, PA, Scott (Terry) Stafford of Dryden, NY, and Mary Heuser of Virginia Beach, VA; several nieces, nephews, cousins, grand-dogs, and a host of caring friends. Judith's Family will receive friends from 4-5 PM on Wednesday December 30, 2015 at The New Beginnings United Methodist Church 300 East Miller Street Elmira, NY. Mrs. Bradley's Funeral Services will be held at the conclusion of calling hours at 5 PM with the Rev. Lee Anne Zeck and The Rev. Robert Briggs officiating. Arrangements are entrusted to the Lynch Funeral Home, 318 W. Broad St., Horseheads, NY. –Elmira Star-Gazette 12/28/2015

HOFFMAN –MARY ELIZABETH ‘BETTY’ MASTERS, 74, of Sugar Run, Bradford County died Thursday (Dec. 1925) at her home. Born in Scranton, she was the daughter of the late George and Lela (George) Hoffman. She was a graduate of Scranton Technical High School, and was employed for several years at Golo Shoe of Dunmore. When she moved to Wyalusing, she operated a child day care for many years. Betty loved caring for children, and cherished her work. She also worked in a factory, nursing home, Dandy Lion and did home health nursing. People were the most important to Betty, and they enjoyed her friendship. She was an active member of the Wyalusing American Legion Auxiliary. She enjoyed dancing at the Black Walnut Legion, and was a terrific dancer. She was also a member of the Sugar Run Presbyterian Church. Betty enjoyed daily walks, growing plants and caring for her cat, Elvis, and attending family reunions. Surviving are her son, Ronnie Masters and wife, Cathy; daughters, Michele Tague and husband, Kenny; and Cherl Chamberlin and husband, Ben; seven grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren; her brother, Bobby Hoffman and wife, Ann, who were very supportive; and her loving sister, Barbara Lutz and husband, George. She was also preceded in death by her brother, Richard Hoffman. A memorial service will be conducted at a later date at the Sugar Run Presbyterian Church. Interment will be conducted at Fairview Memorial Park, Elmhurst Twp. Arrangements have been entrusted to Duffy & Snowdon Funeral Home, Moscow. –Contributed by Carol Brotzman

MARY LOU JOHNSON, 88, of Wysox, PA formerly of Main St. Towanda. PA passed away peacefully at home early Friday morning, January 1, 2016. Mary Lou was born in Towanda Township, PA on January 29, 1927 the daughter of Lester and Lottie Johnson. Her main interest in life encompassed her home and family. Surviving are her sons, Edwin Johnson Jr. of N. Towanda, Emery Johnson and fiancé Debra L. Smith of Wysox, James Johnson and Vicki Potter of Towanda, Howard Johnson of Laceyville, brother, Timothy Johnson of New York State, several grandchildren and great grandchildren. In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her husband of 39 years, Edwin F. Johnson Sr. on September 15, 1992 and by her daughter, Edna Searfoss. A private funeral service will be held at the convenience of the family. There are no calling hours. –Contributed by Carol Brotzman

JOHNSTON –LYNDA CHAPPELL – It is with profound sadness that the family of Lynda Chappell announces her passing on Tuesday, Jan. 5, 2016 at Lakeridge Health Oshawa, after a courageous battle with cancer. She was the wife of the late Bruce Chappell; beloved mother of Michelle (Kirk) Riley of Niagara, Ontario, Elizabeth (John) Driesbaugh of Athens, Pa., and Mark (Shannon Bernard) of Quispamsis, New Brunswick; proud and loving Nana of Kyle, Sarah, Emma, Lucas and Alex Riley and Matthew and Ryan Driesbaugh; sister, of Ian (Sharon Paul) Johnston, and Donna (Grant) Arnold. She was predeceased by her brother, Rob Johnston. Lynda will be greatly missed by several nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews and extended family members. Lynda's community involvement included Home and School President, St. David's United Church, United Church Women's member and president, Sunday school teacher, New Brunswick Liberal Association, St. John Real Estate Board and Village Clerk, Gondola Point. Her latter years were spent living with and enjoying time with her grandchildren in Ontario and Pennsylvania.  A memorial celebration will take place at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 9, 2016 at Simcoe Street United Church, 66 Simcoe Street South, Oshawa, with a visitation and reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations to Hearth Place Cancer Support Centre or R.S. McLaughlin Cancer Centre. –Towanda Daily Review 1/9/2016

ROBEERT C. KERNS, 95, of Parker, CO, and formerly of Burdett, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, December 29, 2015. He was born in Waltham, MA on July 18, 1920 the son of the late Robert and Bernice (McQueen) Kerns. Robert served with the US Army Corps 328th Infantry Regiment, 26th Division during WWII. He served most of his Army time serving in Germany and France from December, 1944- February 1946. He was a platoon guide, with a rank of Staff Sergeant (4 stripes), which meant doing whatever his Tech Sergeant (5 stripes) told him he needed done. He was often sent on "forward trips" to check out what was ahead for the troops in his division. Sometimes these were enjoyable trips, other times, dangerous. He often told the story of wearing out two pairs of boots marching across Europe. In his early working years, Robert was a driver for Cotton Hanlon Lumber. He later worked in road construction, retiring in 1982. He was predeceased by his wife, Flora Bush Kerns in 1997; a daughter, Sharon Kerns Miller in 1999; son, Owen Kerns in 1996; son-in-law, Bruce Leonard in 2013; two sisters: Hazel Eva and Kathy Kerns; brothers, Elliot Kerns, Donald Kerns and Dick Kerns; and step-mother, Polly Clark Kerns. He is survived by two daughters, Bonnie Kerns Leonard of Hampstead, MD, Carolyn Kerns Higginson (David) of Parker, CO; son-in-law, Roy Miller of Pennsylvania; daughter-in-law, Emily Kerns of Montour Falls (Randy Fish); two sisters, Dorothy Manheim of Trumansburg and Betty Lane of Ulster, PA; 10 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. Relatives and friends are invited to call on Saturday, January 9, 2016 from 10 am - 1 pm at Vedder and Scott Funeral Home, 122 N. Genesee St., Montour Falls. Funeral services will begin at 1:00 pm at the funeral home. Burial with full military honors will follow at Union Cemetery of Hector. –Elmira Star-Gazette 1/4/2016

JAMES RUSSELL LATHROP SR., 100, formerly of Sayre, Pa., passed away peacefully with his family by his side at Elderwood Healthcare at Tioga in Waverly, N.Y., on December 30 after an extended illness. Born September 2, 1915 in Auburn, N.Y., to the late Guy and Parthina Lathrop, James lived a long and eventful life. In 1937, he began a long and illustrious career on the Lehigh Valley Railroad, where he served as a fireman, an engineer, and as Assistant Road Foreman of Engineers. On March 24, 1939, he married Lillian T. Cramer, also of Auburn, in Towanda, Pa. His career on the LVRR led them to settle in Sayre in 1954, where they remained until moving to Elderwood in 2009. James was the proud patriarch of the family, and enjoyed spending time with all of his children and grandchildren. Upon retiring from the railroad in 1975, James enjoyed a variety of activities that included racing, boating, collecting and displaying railroad memorabilia, tinkering in his garage, and perhaps most of all, photography. He always had a camera with him wherever he went, and enjoyed showing all of his slides to family and friends. James always enjoyed talking about the railroad to everyone he met, and was never in short supply of stories to tell. James was predeceased by his wife of 74 years, Lillian, in 2013, his parents Guy and Parthina, his son, Douglas Lathrop, and two grandchildren, Robert Scott Lathrop and John Lathrop. He is survived by his four sons James R. (and Sandra) Lathrop Jr., Ronald (and Phyllis) Lathrop, William (and Marcella) Lathrop, and Blane Lathrop; his eight grandchildren Ricky (and Cathy) Lathrop, Valerie (and Michael) McCarty, Jennifer (and Ray) Casselbury, Eric (and Georgia) Lathrop, Rebecca Lathrop, Christopher (and Triscia) Lathrop, Robert James Lathrop, and Justin Lathrop; as well as many great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren. A private graveside service will be held for family members at Fort Hill Cemetery in Auburn. In lieu of flowers, the family is asking that people make a donation in James's name to a charity of their own choosing. –Sayre Morning Times 12/31/2015

LISKOVEC –MARY L. BEMENT age 81 of Millerton, PA, passed away January 8th, 2016. She was born in Elmira, NY January 21, 1934 the daughter of the late Charles and Lucille Liskovec. Her husband Donald Bement, Sr., predeceased her in 2008, and grandson: Bradley Powell in 2014, brother: Joseph Liskovec in 1995. Surviving are her loving children: Deborah (Robert) Rodgers of Corning, Donald (Edith) Bement, Jr., of Millerton, Dennis (Marie) Bement of Elmira Heights, Dianna Lynn Parise of Vestal; 11 grandchildren, 22 great grandchildren, many great great grandchildren; Sister: Joan Andrews of Elmira along with several nieces and nephews. She retired from Purolator, and worked in the past for Elmira Stamping. Mary will always be remembered for her perfect ginger snaps and her skilled card playing. She loved family gatherings, picnics, rummage sales, collecting, and flowers. Family and friends are invited to gather at the Olthof Funeral Home, Inc. 1050 Pennsylvania Ave. Elmira, NY Monday, January 11th, 2016 from 6 to 8pm. Funeral services celebrating Mary's life will follow the calling hours at 8pm. The family would like a special heartfelt "Thank You" to Anita Deyo and Fantasia Lyons for their special care. –Elmira Star-gazette 1/10/2016

LOVELL –CECELIA L. PIERCE, 83, of Westfield, PA, passed away on Friday, December 25, 2015 in her home. Born July 21, 1932, in Blossburg, PA, she was a daughter of the late Lewis and Gladys (Kio) Lovell. Ceil was married to Clyde N. Pierce, who preceded her in death. She was a homemaker who enjoyed delivering Meals on Wheels, playing bingo, scratching lottery tickets, reading, doing crossword puzzles and playing solitaire. She was a loving and kind woman who will be missed by all those that had the privilege to know her. Ceil is survived by four sons, Clyde (Sharon) Pierce, Hector, PA, Roy Pierce, Mt. Morris, NY, Jeffery (Cindy) Pierce, Westfield, and Bruce (Brenda Warren) Pierce, Westfield; five daughters, Connie (Dean) Hess, Elmer, PA, Patricia (Randy) Metcalf, Potter Brook, PA, Mary (John Campbell) Taft, Westfield, Jacqueline Bonniger, Westfield, and Cecelia (Leo Campbell) Pierce, Austinburg, PA; a sister, Edie (Tom) Lockamy, York, PA; a daughter-in-law, Diana Pierce, Elmer, PA; and several grandchildren, great grandchildren, great great grandchildren, nieces and nephews. In addition to her husband, Ceil was predeceased by three sons, William, Lewis and Richard Pierce; three grandchildren, Lacey Pierce, Jeffery Pierce, Jr. and Zachary Metcalf; ten siblings; and a son-in-law, Curtis Bonniger, Sr. Friends may call on Monday, December 28, 2015 at the Jemison Valley Church in Westfield from 2:00-4:00pm and from 6:00-7:00pm with Funeral Services following at 7:00pm. Pastor Ed Collins will officiate. Memorial contributions may be made to the funeral home. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Hess Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Galeton. –Elmira Star-Gazette 12/27/2015

ANN LUCY, 71, of Cabin John, Md., died on Dec. 31, 2015. Ann was born in Athens, Pa., on Dec. 9, 1944. She was the daughter of the late Charles and Mary Elizabeth (McCabe) Lucy. Ann was a graduate of Athens Area High School and The College of Mount Saint Vincent, in NYC. After graduating as class valedictorian, she pursued a doctorate at Saint Louis University. As a CPA, Ann had a distinguished 35-year career in the Washington, D.C., area. Ann excelled at many things in life; motherhood, tennis, cooking. She was an avid birder, and she loved her time in Glenora, N.Y., on Seneca Lake. Ann is survived by her son, Shahab Farzanegan of Salem, Ore.; her aunts, Mary Anne Lucy of Waverly, N.Y., Tessie (Jack) Wilgus of Mechanicsburg, Pa., and Eva McCabe of Sayre, Pa. She is survived by her siblings Kathy (Dick) Hughes, Charles (Nina) Lucy, Eileen (Bill) Holgate, Beth Reagan, Theresa (Stephen) LoPresto and many cousins, nieces and nephews. Friends will be received at Pumphrey Funeral Home in Bethesda, Md. on Thursday, Jan. 14 from 3-5 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family request that donations be made in Ann's name to the Montgomery Bird Club of the Maryland Ornithological Society. –Sayre Morning Times 1/11/2016

MCCLURE –VIRGINIA MCCLURE PALMER passed away peacefully Thur. Jan. 7, 2016 at Bethany Manor. She was born September 14, 1922 in a farmhouse in Roseville, PA, to William and Ida (Williams) McClure. On Feb. 17, 1945 she married the love of her life, Lawrence R. "Bud" Palmer and they had over 62 years of love and life together until Bud's passing on Sep. 29, 2007. Together they raised a loving and caring family: children, Kathleen (Stephen) Palmer Swecker, William (Christine) Palmer, Mary Ann (Eugene) Ploucha, Thomas (Ann) Palmer and Mark (Susan) Palmer; beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Jennifer (Sean) Latham with [Zoe, Sophie]; Todd (Valérie) Besanceney with [Josephine, Madeline]; Matthew Besanceney, Seth Palmer, Sarah (Andrew) Haflett with [Whitney, Olivia, Thomas]; Jeffrey Palmer, Katie (Peter) Vonderheide with [Lily]; Samuel and Benjamin Palmer;3 step-grandchildren, and their families; several nieces and nephews. Virginia was predeceased by her parents, sister and brother-in-law, Dr. Thomas E. and Christine (McClure) Boughton; brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Alton & Lois (Palmer) Crippen; sister-in-law, Joyce Palmer and great-granddaughter, Ellie Latham. Beloved as a wonderful mother, grandmother, cookie-maker and neighbor, Virginia led a rich and active life. After graduating from the Elmira Business Institute, she married Bud, raised her family and worked for many years as an executive secretary at Marine Midland Bank in Elmira. She traveled widely across the U.S. to visit her children and grandchildren, and delighted in Skyping with her great grandchildren in France. She was a voracious reader and a formidable competitor in word games. And few, if any, could match her skills as a maker of filled cookies and sausage gravy with biscuits. Family and friends will be received at Caywood's Funeral Home & Gardens, 1126 Broadway, Southport/Elmira, NY on Sat. Jan. 16, 2016 between the hours of 1-3 p.m. A memorial service will follow the visitation at 3 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be directed to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Pl. Memphis, TN or So. Tier Assoc. for the Visually Impaired, 719 Lake St. Elmira in her memory. –Elmira Star-Gazette 1/10/2016

WILLIAM E. MCCORMICK age 65 of Erin, NY passed away on Saturday, December 26, 2015. Billy was born in Elmira, NY, to the late Claude and Eleanor (Dibble) McCormick. In addition to his parents he was also predeceased by his mother-in-law and father-in-law, Frances and James Lyon. Billy is survived by his loving wife, Sandy McCormick of Erin; son, Shaine (Eva) Lyon also of Erin; grandchildren, James, Freddy, Kevin, and Kasandra; one great grandchild, Sofia, all of NE; siblings, Robert, Carol, Allen, Betty, Donna, Larry, Elaine, Donald, Mary Jane, and Tommy; many nieces and nephews. Billy had a passion for racing, hunting and fishing. He will be dearly missed by his entire family. Family and friends are invited to call at the Barber Funeral Home, Inc., 413 S. Main St., Horseheads on Saturday, January 2, 2016, from 12:00PM -2:00PM. Funeral service with military honors will be held at the conclusion of calling hours at 2PM. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to TJ's Auto Sales, 960 Sullivan St, Elmira, NY. –Elmira Star/Gazette 12/29/2015

MERRITTS –PAULINE M. GEIGER of Towanda, Pa., peacefully went home to meet her Lord and Savior on Jan. 6, 2016. She was born on April 8, 1932 in Huntingdon, Pa. Pauline was the daughter of Luther and Iva O'Donnell Merritts. She was a graduate of Huntingdon High School. Shortly after graduation, she was employed by J.C. Blair of Huntingdon, Pa. She was also active in the Huntingdon Assembly of God Church as a Sunday school teacher, youth leader, and counselor at the church camp. She later attended Eastern Bible Institute (University of Valley Forge) where she met the love of her life and best friend, Thomas Geiger. She was an employee of the Towanda Area School District for 27 years. Pauline was the pastor's wife for the Towanda Assembly of God Church for 55 years.Surviving are her husband and soul mate, Rev. Thomas Geiger of 61 ½ years of marriage; her five children who loved her so much, Miriam Geiger of Towanda, Pa., Thomas Geiger Jr. (Cindy) of Rome, Pa., Michele Haggerty (Joe) of Towanda, Pa., Rev. Timothy Geiger of Towanda, Pa., and Melinda Geiger of Harrisburg, Pa.; her five grandchildren, Elizabeth Geiger, Luke Geiger, Meredith Haggerty, Melinda Haggerty and Evan Haggerty; her sister, Leona Hayden of Punxsutawney, Pa., and her brother, John Merritts of Altoona, Pa. Pauline was predeceased by her parents, her sister, Jean Iseman, and her beautiful baby girl, Ruth Ann Geiger.Pauline touched so many lives with her homemade cookies and true love for the Lord. Her tender heart and compassionate spirit were evident by the bright smile she displayed to friends and strangers alike.Her friends and congregation knew her as a "prayer warrior" and a strong woman with great faith in God.A private memorial service will be at the convenience of her family. There will be no calling hours per Pauline's wishes. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions can be given to the Towanda Assembly of God Church located at 20 Kingsbury Ave., in honor of her love for her church family. As we mourn the loss of our wonderful, caring, and amazing wife and mother, we can hear her say, "Our God is an awesome God." Psalm 42:1 "As the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after thee, Oh God." Funeral arrangements are under the entrusted care of Bowen Funeral Service and owner, Jim Bowen, a true friend. –Towanda Daily Review 1/9/2016

L. JEFFREY MILLARD - It is with great sadness that the family of L. Jeffrey Millard announces his passing on Tuesday, Jan. 5, 2016, at the age of 73 years. Jeff was born in Sayre, Pa., to Mary Elizabeth Kinsley and Seymour Millard, on June 29, 1942. He graduated from Waverly High School in 1960 and went on to earn a Bachelors Degree in Education from Albany State University and a Masters degree from Elmira College. He returned to his alma mater and dedicated the next 39 years to educating young men and women both in the classroom and on the athletic field. He began his teaching career in business education and later taught history, a subject that he was most passionate about as evidenced by anyone who ever watched an episode of Jeopardy with him. His outstanding coaching career was in softball and football. He began the WHS softball program in 1977 and coached his teams to several championships. Over a 29 year span, he held both assistant and head football coaching positions at the JV and Varsity levels. Spending most of his career at the JV level with a record of 109-39-4, he also led four teams to undefeated seasons as well as a 22 game winning streak. Of higher value to Jeff than any win though, was being awarded the Elmira Football Officials Sportsmanship award in 1992 and being inducted into the Waverly Hall of Fame in 2003. Anyone who had the honor of knowing Jeff knows that sportsmanship and integrity both on the field and in life were his highest priorities. Jeff greatly enjoyed Penn State football and watching the Mets play baseball. Besides being a sports enthusiast, he loved reading and crossword puzzles. He was also interested in current events and politics. He was a true lifelong learner and a loving, dedicated family man. Jeff touched many lives throughout his community and was highly loved and respected as an educator, coach, mentor, and friend. He was truly a great man. Jeff will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 49 years, Helen, and his children Kathy (Jamie) Gorman and MaryBeth (Mark) Worthington. He will also be fondly remembered by his three grandchildren, Michael, Katie, and Ryan, and by his sisters Lynne Scheiderer and Marilyn Rhodes; brothers-in-law: Ron Scheiderer, Mark Rhodes, and Joe Noonan; sister-in-law Dodie Noonan, as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins. Jeff was predeceased by his parents and his brother, Dale Millard. A time of gathering with family and friends will be from 4 to 6 p.m., Friday, Jan. 8, 2016, at Blauvelt Funeral Home, 625 Broad St., Waverly, N.Y. A celebration of Jeff's life will be held on Saturday, Jan. 9, 2016 at the Waverly United Methodist Church, 158 Chemung St., Waverly, N.Y. with Rev. Anne Bey Canfield officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Waverly Free Library, 18 Elizabeth St., Waverly, NY. –Towanda Daily Review 1/7/2016

GARY T. MILLER, 62, of 404 Bridge St., Towanda, Pa. passed away Saturday, December 26, 2015 at his home following declining health. Gary was born in Sayre, Pa. on September 22, 1953 the son of Joseph and Ruth McCutcheon Miller. He spent the early years of his life growing up in Milltown and was a graduate of Sayre High School class of 1971. Gary began his 38-year career with the railroad with Conrail and retired from the Norfolk Southern Railroad in the summer of 2015. Gary loved spending time with his family, sharing laughter and story-telling with others, music and railroad history. Surviving are his wife, Deborah McClintic Miller, children, Christopher Miller (Billie Jo) of Waverly, N.Y., Shawn Miller (Katie) of Philadelphia, Joshua Miller (Danielle) of Berkshire, N.Y., Shane Searfoss (Brandon) of Elmira, N.Y., Gregory Bishop (Christy) of State College, Pa., Melissa McLinko (Corey) of Towanda, grandchildren, Alicia, Jimmy, Kristin, Hannah, Alyssa, Zach, Emma, Ellie, Alec, Emily, Bella, Brendan, and Caden, great grandchildren, Landon, Colton and Reagan, brothers, Joseph Miller (Kay), Glenn Miller (Debra), sister, Ruth Ann Dobrzensky (Gary), mother-in-law and father-in-law, Betty and Robert McClintic Sr., brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Jim McClintic (Brenda), Donna Stout (Will), Robert McClintic Jr. (Darlene), Terry McClintic (Charlotte), William McClintic, special friends, Bob Houser, Bill Buck, Dennis Kurak and Julie Bump, several nieces, nephews and cousins. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by nephews, Tony Eltringham and Ryan Miller. The family will receive friends Wednesday, December 30, 2015 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. followed by a memorial service at 1 p.m. at the Maryott-Bowen Funeral Home, 217 York Ave., Towanda. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that contributions be directed to the American Cancer Society, Bradford Unit, 1948 East Third St., Williamsport, PA in Gary T. Miller's memory. –Sayre Morning Times 12/28/2015

MOSIER –JOAN MARIE CASWELL, age 87, of Wyalusing, PA, passed away on December 29, 2015 at the Skilled Nursing Unit at Guthrie Towanda Memorial Hospital where she resided for the past year. Born on March 11, 1928 in Brooklyn, NY, she grew up in the New Albany, PA area and was the daughter of late Ralph and Pauline Capwell Mosier. Joan was a graduate of New Albany High School with the Class of 1946. She worked as a telephone operator and bank teller in Dushore, PA before marriage. In her younger years, she was a member of the New Albany Baptist Church and sang in their choir. She married Robert Caswell, Jr. on April 21, 1957 and became a housewife and mother. In addition, she babysat dozens of Wyalusing area children for many years. Joan liked to bake and crafted many beautiful Christmas stockings, decorations, and ornaments for friends and family over the years. She loved her pet cats and treasured her collection of dolls. She and Bob enjoyed taking many bus trips after his retirement in 1989. Joan was a member of the Wyalusing Presbyterian Church where she was a member of the Fidelis Club in the 1960's and 1970's. Besides her parents, Joan was predeceased by her husband, Bob, after 57 years of marriage on January 18, 2015. She is survived by her daughter, Janet Caswell of Elmira, NY, and son and daughter-in-law, David and Maryellen Caswell of Port Matilda, PA, grandchildren Michael and Meghan Caswell of Port Matilda, PA, sister, Janet Dempsey of Tunkhannock, PA, along with nephews and cousins. Joan was also very blessed with wonderful neighbors and friends in the Wyalusing community who did so much for her and Bob. The family would like to thank the amazing nurses and aides at the Skilled Nursing Unit at Guthrie Towanda Memorial Hospital for taking such wonderful care of Joan, as well as the Guthrie Hospice staff, the Wyalusing Presbyterian Church community, and Joan’s devoted and generous neighbors. It was Joan's wish not to have calling hours or a funeral service. Memorial contributions in Joan's name may be made to the Wyalusing Presbyterian Church, PO Box 25, Wyalusing, PA. Arrangements were entrusted with Sheldon Funeral Homes, 155 Church St, Wyalusing, PA. –Contributed by Carol Brotzman

DAVID R. ‘WAG’ OLMSTEAD, 51, of Stevensville, died Wednesday July 19, 2000 at his home. Born Oct. 31, 1948, in Stevensville, he was a son of the late David F. and Annabelle (Durland) Olmstead. He was a 1966 graduate of Wyalusing Valley High School. He was a U.S. Army veteran of the Vietnam War.  He was preceded in death by his brother, Jack Eugene. Surviving are his brother, Larry D., Tunkhannock; half-brothers, Stanley and Emerson Sands, both of Tunkhannock; Robert Sands, Dallas; Wayne Sands, Meshoppen; and James Sands, Laceyville; half-sisters, Donna Etheridge, Russellville, Ky.; and Shirley Proof, Cucumonga, Calif.; and several nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be private. There will be no calling hours. Arrangements are by the Sheldon Funeral Home, Main Street, Laceyville. Buried on the Sharer Farm, Stevensville, PA, but has a plot in Beaver Meadows. –Citizens Voice Newspaper Contributed by Carol Brotzman

ALBERT W. PRESTON JR., 82, also known as Ted to his family and friends passed away on Sunday, December 20, 2015 at the Moran Hospice Center on Amelia Island, Florida, his home for the last seventeen years. He was born in Philadelphia, PA on June 17, 1933 and spent his youth in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Ted was a graduate of Swarthmore College. He received his Master’s in Electrical Engineering from Colorado State University and a Juris Doctor degree from Temple University Law School. He was a partner in the intellectual property firm of Woodcock, Washburn, Kurtz and Norris until his retirement in 1999. Ted and his family were summer residents of Laporte, PA for 48 years. He loved the beauty and tranquility of their cottage on the east side of Lake Mokoma. He served on the board of directors of the Eagles Mere Country Club. He is survived by his wife, Jane of 49 years. Daughter, Cynthia Preston Arch, two grandchildren TJ and Kayla Arch, an identical twin brother Thomas Preston of Seattle, WA., and numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by a son Thomas E Preston. Private funeral services will be held at the convenience of the family. Memorial contributions may be made to Sun Home Hospice, a division of Geisinger, 780 Broad St., Montoursville, PA. –Funeral home notice contributed by Carol Brotzman
 
PRUTZMAN –DOROTHY LOUISE DICKINSON JERVIS, 82, of Forkston Twp., passed away peacefully, Dec. 21, 2015, at home with her family. Born in Dallas on Feb. 19, 1933, she was a daughter of the late Robert and Minnie Arlene Martin Prutzman. A 1951 graduate of Dallas High School, Dorothy played the trumpet in the school band and on weekends danced at the Kunkle Dance Hall with friends. Everyone danced with "Dottie." In her senior year she was crowned Miss Wyoming Valley. Dorothy was a devoted mother and wife who instilled in her children a deep appreciation for the beauty and magic of nature. She taught them to rise with the sun, to make the most of each day, to be open and honest, to let others have glimpses into your soul, and to go to bed with a clear conscience. Dorothy enjoyed gardening, reading, listening to opera, and spending time with her children and grandchildren. She loved to fish, and she baited her own hooks. She will forever be with them, especially when it rains, and when the leaves change color in the fall. Preceding Dorothy in death was her husband of 16 years, Alex Jervis. Surviving her are six children: Clifford R. Dickinson and his wife Crystal of Richmond, Va., Diane L. Dickinson and her husband Kevin of Richmond, Va., Patricia Taylor and her husband Denis of Richmond, Va., Terri Alderson and her husband John of Roanoke, Va., Russell Dickinson and his wife Mary of Mill City, and Kimberly Mock and her husband Keith of Tunkhannock. Also surviving Dorothy are 14 grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren; a brother Arthur Prutzman and his wife Betty of Dallas; two sisters: Lorraine Music of Saluda, Va., and Patricia Yenchak of Ashley; and several nieces and nephews. Dorothy was a member of the Church of Latter Day Saints of Tunkhannock. The church brought her comfort and solace in her later years. The family would like to give special thanks to Jacey and Austyn Mitchell and the Hospice of the Sacred Heart, Wilkes-Barre, for their kindness and devoted care to Dorothy and her family. A memorial service celebrating Dorothy's life is planned for Jan. 16 at 2 p.m. in the Nulton-Kopcza Funeral Home, 5749 SR 309 (Beaumont) Monroe Twp. Friends may call from noon until time of service at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association of Northeastern Pennsylvania, 57 N. Franklin Street, Wilkes-Barre, PA or the Hospice of the Sacred Heart 600 Baltimore, Drive No. 7 Wilkes Barre, PA –Wyoming County Examiner 12/30/2015

LEE LEONARD ROBBINS, age 84 of Chatham Lane, Elmira, formerly of Hickory Grove Rd. Horseheads, took is final flight on December 25, 2015, after a 10 year battle with prostate and bone cancer. Lee is survived by his wife of 60 years, Vivian Gustin Robbins, daughter Debra Lattin of Burdett, NY, Pamela Tarver and husband Paul of Meridian MS, and Karen Robbins (Carl Tremaine), of Elmira, NY. Also surviving him is his twin brother, and "partner in crime", Clyde E. Robbins of Troy, PA, sister Jeanne Parker and husband Joel of Bridgeville, PA, and sister-in-law Rose Marie Robbins of Zelienople, PA. He leaves two granddaughters, Heather Rounds of Horseheads and Olivia Lattin of Burdett, (Debra's), grandsons, Daniel Hoover of Corning, (Pam's), Joseph Heifferon, of Buffalo, and Zachary Heifferon, of Lynchburg, VA (Karen's). He also leaves 2 great granddaughters McKenna Rounds and Annabell Rounds and many nieces and nephews. Plus many wonderful life-long friends and co-workers. He was predeceased by his son Michael Lee Robbins, granddaughter Alicia Hoover (Pam's), sister Louise Phillips and husband Fred, of Granbury, TX, brother Ray and Edith Robbins of Troy, PA, and Wilfred (Bill) Robbins of Troy, PA. Lee was born in Columbia Cross Roads, PA, on April 24, 1931 (along with his twin brother Clyde) to Howard and Lisle Leonard Robbins. He attended Troy High School, where he played many sports and was in the band. He attended University of Michigan and Mansfield University. He joined the Navy, hoping to get into the Cadets flying program, but they didn't want guys with flat feet and told him he would never be able to fly. But fly he did! He soloed at 17, flew many, many different kinds of planes, gave rides, instructed, built, and rebuilt many planes and wanted nothing more than to fly his whole life. One plane he and some friends built, Breezy, was donated, and is on display, at the Wings of Eagles Discovery Center. He went to work for his brother Bill at Elmira Aeronautical Corp. at the Elmira Airport. There he washed planes, instructed, did the bookkeeping, and took passengers for rides to gain his many needed certifications. He was hired by Corning Inc. in 1954 as a co-pilot. He worked his way "up the ranks" and became the Director of Aviation for Corning Inc. He retired after 36 years and thoroughly enjoyed every bit of those years, except for the times he was away from his family for days and sometimes weeks at a time. A few years before his retirement he was asked to take over as Director of the LPGA Corning Classic and he did for 11 years, while still with the aviation department. He was elected to be president of the LPGA Sponsors Board. He and wife Vivian volunteered all 31 years it was held in Corning. Lee was very community minded. He assisted his wife as a Girl Scout leader when he wasn't flying, was a member and President of Horseheads Optimist Club, Horseheads Rotary Club, Trustee and President of the National Soaring Museum where he also flew and towed gliders for the Harris Hill Flying Club. Lee also served as Trustee at Glenn Curtiss Museum and organized their first fund raising Golf Tournament for them. He was a 60 year member of the Masonic Lodge of Troy, a past member of the Horseheads Elks and Corning Country Club. Lee was honored to be elected a member of and then Chairman of, the National Business Aircraft Assoc. representing Corning, Inc., served as board member and president of the Experimental Aircraft Assoc., the Red Cross, Southern Tier Economic Growth, Past Board Member and Vice Chairman of the Board of Elmira Savings Bank, Horseheads School Board for 9 years, Past President of Community Foundation of Steuben and Chemung County, and Vice President of Corning Enterprises. The three Robbins brother's Bill, Clyde and Lee received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the FAA in 2002.He loved flying for the National Warplane Museum, now the Wings of Eagles Discovery Center, and worked on and flew many of their planes, and was honored to fly the DC-3 when it was taken to Illinois to be sold. After he retired he enjoyed building radio controlled model planes and playing golf, and going to his brother Clyde's airport in Troy to work on their planes or to the EAA to work on the club's planes. Lee and his wife, Vivian enjoyed many years traveling in their motor home and going to campouts with their motor home club, first with The Fingerlakers and then with the Penny-Mixers Club and spending winters after retirement in Florida. There will be calling hours at the Lynch Funeral Home, 318 W. Broad St., Horseheads, NY on Monday, December 28th from 2-4 and 6-8. The family invites relatives and friends to a Celebration of Lee's life to be held at the Wings of Eagles (formerly the Warplane Museum) at 339 Daniel Zenker Drive in Horseheads on Tuesday December 29th at 2 p.m. Bring your stories. In lieu of flowers the family asks that any donations to be made in Lee's name to Care First Hospice, 11751 E. Corning Rd., Corning, NY or Wings of Eagles Discovery Center, 339 Daniel Zenker Dr., Horseheads, NY. The family also wishes to express their many thanks to all the nurses that have come from Hospice to help with his care. Also, many thanks to his doctors through this battle, Dr. Bradley Lash at Guthrie Clinic, in Sayre and Dr. Kimberley Kaffenbarger at Arnot Medical. –Elmira Star-Gazette 12/27/2015

ROSS –CATHERINE CAVANY, 92 years young, of Lake Winola, went home to be with the Lord on Wednesday morning January 6, 2016. She was born on September 12, 1923 in Ashley, Pennsylvania, to the late Andrew and Anna Duffy Ross. Catherine loved to make people laugh and always said that laughter was the best medicine. She had an affinity for clowns and being a recycled teenager. She loved camping at Shore Forest Campground in Hop Bottom, sitting in the sunshine with friends, and spending time with her family, especially those grandkids of her’s. The only thing that she wanted more was a great grand baby! Catherine will be remembered as being a very caring woman who will be missed by many. Catherine ran a day care out of her home for 3 years before going to work at the Child Development Center in Tunkhannock until she retired in 1984. She, then, went to work and volunteered at Interfaith Friends in Tunkhannock, and was the first greeter at the Seven Loaves Soup Kitchen when it opened. She was a member of the Lake Winola United Methodist Church, in Lake Winola, and the Wyoming County Senior Citizen Council. Catherine was preceded in death by her husband, Robert “Red” Cavany, formally of Mountain Top, sisters, Helen Passetti, Mary Jackson, Nancy Ross, and Theresa Radovic, and brother, Joseph Ross. She was the last remaining member of her family. Catherine’s legacy includes her sons: Jack Brady, Bob Cavany and wife, Pam, daughter-in-law, Jeannie Brady, all of Tunkhannock. She is also survived by her three grandchildren: Mei-Ling Brady, Kyle Cavany and Kirsten and husband, Nathaniel Raymond. Funeral services will be held on Monday, January 11th at 11 am from the Lake Winola United Methodist Church with Pastor Gay Irwin officiating. Interment will be at the convenience of the family. Family will receive family and friends at the church from 10 am until the time of the service. Arrangements by the Sheldon-Kukuchka Funeral Home Inc. Tunkhannock. In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to Lake Winola United Methodist Church, PO Box 400, Lake Winola, PA or to Seven Loaves Soup Kitchen, 5630 SR 6, Tunkhannock, PA. –Funeral home obituary contributed by Carol Brotzman

JOSEPH ROSS - Former Springville resident Joseph E. Ross, LCDR, USN (Ret.), 99, died Nov. 25, 2015, at Country Meadows in York. He was preceded in death by his wife of 46 years, Louise 'Shay' Ross, who died in Beaufort, S.C., in 2000. Born Joseph Edwin Roszykiewicz (the family later changed its last name to Ross) on April 23, 1916, in Duryea, he was the son of Julius and Edith (Ratajski) Roszykiewicz. He had five brothers and two sisters, all deceased. Joe graduated from high school in Detroit, Mich., in 1935, worked in the Civilian Conservation Corps, was employed by Chrysler Corp., and did a brief stint in the U.S. Army before enlisting in the U.S. Navy in 1941. After boot camp he trained as an aviation machinist's mate at Norfolk, Va., where he was retained as an assistant instructor. In 1943 he was accepted for flight training as an enlisted aviator. He was awarded his naval aviator wings in August of 1944, and there followed an interesting career in U.S. Naval aviation, with assignments all over the United States, Europe, North Africa and the Mediterranean, and the Pacific. In 1954, while serving as a test pilot in Litchfield Park, Ariz., Joe met and married 1st Lt. Louise I. Shea of Willimantic, Conn., who was in charge of recruiting women in the state of Arizona for the Women's Army Corps. After the birth of their first child (Timothy) in 1955, Joe was reassigned to transport duty in the Territory of Hawaii, where children Robert and Kathryn were born, and in 1959 Joe was reassigned to his last duty station in El Centro, Calif. In 1964 Joe retired from the Navy and moved with Shay and the kids to a farm in Springville. Around 1985, he and Shay relocated to Royal Pines on Lady's Island, Beaufort, S.C. An avid golfer, Joe was two-time Club Champion at the Montrose Country Club, and golfed well into his 80s at the Lady's Island Country Club. Joe was a lifelong music lover, playing the accordion and piano, and accompanying himself singing on the guitar. He was a member of the Masons in Montrose, and the Silver Eagles Association (U.S. Navy, Marine and Coast Guard pilots who flew as enlisted men). He was a 5,500-hour pilot who flew around 30 different aircraft types during his military career. In his 90s, Joe moved to Stewartstown (York County), where he lived with his son Tim's family for several years, and then to Country Meadows of Leader Heights in York. He is survived by his three children: Timothy J. Ross (wife Kathleen Ross) of Stewartstown, Robert Ross of Gainesville, Fla., and Kathryn M. (Ross) French of Summerville, S.C.; and five grandchildren: Jessica (French) Almquist, Lauren K. Ross, Megan N. Ross, Adeline L. Ross and Ian T. Ross. A graveside ceremony will be held at the Beaufort, S.C., National Cemetery on Dec. 31 at 11 a.m. –Wyoming County Examiner 12/30/2015

WAYNE E. SANDS SR., age 77, of Meshoppen, PA passed away early Monday morning January 4, 2016 at the Bradford County Manor in Burlington, PA. Wayne was born on May 8, 1938 the son of the late Emerson and F. Annabelle Durling Sands Sr. in Towanda, PA. He was a graduate of the Wyalusing Valley High School. He worked for Taylor Beef, now known as Cargill, for over 25 years until he retired in the 1990’s. He also worked for the Indian Hill Charcoal Plant and Laceyville, PA. He was married to Marlene M. Conrad who passed away on December 11, 1989. Wayne thoroughly enjoyed being surrounded by his family and many friends. Wayne is survived by his children Lisa Sands of Meshoppen, PA; Brian Sands (Anne Rosencrance) of Laceyville, PA; Wayne Sands Jr. of Somerset, PA; David Sands and his wife Celia of Towanda, PA; and Sandra Owen of South Carolina. He is also survived by 10 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren as well as his brothers Stanley Sands and his wife Debra of Tunkhannock, PA; James Sands and his wife Jodi of Laceyville, PA; Emerson Sands Jr. of Dimock, PA; Larry Olmstead of Tunkhannock, PA; sisters Shirley Proof and Donna Eldrich both of Kentucky. Besides his parents and wife Wayne was preceded in death by his daughter Tammy Lynn Sands Fassett (2002); son-in-law Eugene Owen (1998); brother Jack Olmstead (1981); brother David Olmstead; brother Robert Sands; sister-in-law Dorothy Sands; sister-in-law Nancy Sands; and nephew Randy Sands. Funeral services for Wayne will be held on Thursday, January 6, 2016 at 11:00 AM at the Sheldon Funeral Home, Main Street, Laceyville, PA. Interment will follow at the Lacey Street Cemetery. Family and friends may call at the funeral home on Wednesday evening, January 5, 2016 from 7:00-9:00 PM. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to the Mehoopany Baptist Church Awana Club, Route 87, Mehoopany, PA. –Funeral home notice contributed by Carol Brotzman 1/5//2016

SCAIFE –UARDA V. (SCAIFE) VAUGHN, 93, formerly of Orefield and Blossburg, died Wednesday, January 6, 2016 at Fellowship Manor, Whitehall. She was the wife of the late James W. Vaughn. Born in Blossburg Tioga County, August 18, 1922, Uarda was the daughter of the late Fred and Hannah (Johnson) Scaife. She was employed as Manager of the former L.F. Widmann Co. in Mansfield, Tioga County. Prior to that, she was a clerk at the former Ben Franklin Five & Dime in Blossburg. During the Second World War, Uarda was employed at Bendix Corp. in Elmira, NY for several years. She was a member of the First United Methodist Church, Blossburg, where she sang with the choir for over 50 years. Survivors: Son, Dr. Robert W. Vaughn and his wife, Dr. Lisa B. Vaughn of New Tripoli; daughter-in-law, Jane R. Vaughn of Bath; grandchildren, Jessica and her husband, Barthelemy Tossenou, James R. Vaughn II and his wife, Danielle (Cassler), Elizabeth and her husband, Gregory Bringhurst, and Amy Vaughn; great granddaughters, Rebecka and Sarah Vaughn; predeceased by a son, James R. Vaughn, two brothers, and one sister. Service: Memorial services will be held 11:00 am. Monday, January 11, 2016 at the Zentz Community Center, Fellowship Community, 3020 Fellowship Drive, Whitehall. The Rev. Philip E. Yerrington will be officiating. Family and friends may pay their respects from 6 - 8:00 pm. Sunday in the Heintzelman Funeral Home, Inc., 4906 Route 309, Schnecksville and 10 - 11:00 am. Monday in the Zentz Community Center. Contributions: In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Fellowship Community Vaughn/ Baker Trust c/o the funeral home, P.O. Box #196, Schnecksville, PA. –Elmira Star-Gazette 1/9/2016

SHAFFER –JILL C. SHAFFER SHUGARS, 55, of Waverly, NY passed away on Saturday, December 26, 2015 with her family by her side at the Robert Packer Hospital, Sayre following an extended illness. She was born on June 25, 1960 in Sayre, PA, the daughter of James C. and June C. Sager Shaffer. Jill was a stay at home mom raising her children and two of her grandchildren. She loved spending time with her family and friends, especially her grandchildren. Her Sundays were spent at her parents home where everyone gathered for Sunday breakfast. Jill was a person that spent her whole life caring for others and was always ready to help anyone in need. She had a deep concern for all those around her and caretaker to anyone she met. No matter the circumstances, she was always available to be there for those around her. She enjoyed playing cards, bingo, and going to the Casino. Jill was very involved with Chinese Auctions and also loved to attend them. Jill will be missed by all who knew and loved her. She is predeceased by her daughter Melissa Lynn Peters in 1982, grandson James Shaffer in 1999, maternal grandfather Howard Leonard, paternal grandparents Thomas (Dad) and Euleta (Ma) Shaffer, paternal aunt Cindy Shaffer, and paternal uncle Douglas Shaffer. Jill is survived by her children Thomas and Melissa Shaffer of Lowman, NY, and Jessica Peters of Waverly, NY, grandchildren Thomas R. Shaffer of Avoca, NY, Melissa, Zachary, and Chole Shaffer of Lowman, NY, Shasta S. Peters of Lexington, KY, and Abigail Westbrook of Waverly, NY. She is also survived by her parents James C. and June C. Shaffer of South Waverly, PA, maternal grandmother Helen Leonard of Sayre, PA, sisters Jackie Shaffer and her partner Stephanie Jordan of Athens, PA, brothers and sisters-in-law James, Jr. and Dora Shaffer, of South Waverly, PA, John and Anne Shaffer of Waverly, NY, and sister Jennifer Shaffer of Athens, PA, maternal aunt Sandra and her husband Murt Garrison of Ulster, PA, maternal uncles Gary Leonard and his wife Karen of Salt Lake City, UT, maternal uncles Mark Leonard of Sayre, PA, and Randy Swackhammer of Sayre, PA, paternal aunts Roberta DeSisti of Sayre, PA, Marlene Quatrini and her husband Thomas of Athens, PA, Betty Gable of Waverly, NY, Grace Gardner and her husband Paul of SC, and Shelly Fraley and her husband Tyler of Athens, PA, paternal uncles Thomas “Tokey” Shaffer of Waverly, NY, Leslie Shaffer and his wife Kathy of Waverly, NY, William “Cubby” Shaffer and his wife Cindy of Sayre, PA, and Dean Shaffer of Waverly, NY, the father of her children and a lifelong friend Rex J. Peters of Corning, NY, close friends Jennifer McIntire of Sayre, PA, Pam Macumber of Halsey Valley, NY, and Tina VanDyke of CO, and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. She will also be missed by her beloved cat Breezer. Friends and family may call on Wednesday, December 30, 2015 from 4pm – 6pm at the Jay E. Lowery Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc., 225 South Main Street, Athens, PA. Funeral services will follow at the funeral home at 6pm with the Rev Anne Bey Canfield officiating. Memorial donations may be made in her memory to Jay. E. Lowery Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc., 225 South Main Street, Athens, PA to help offset the funeral expenses. –Funeral home obit contributed by Carol Brotzman

SHERMAN –GAIL G. (SHERMAN) SILVER age 66 of Pine City, passed away Monday, January 4th, 2016 at home surrounded by her family. She was born July 8th, 1949 in Elmira, the daughter of the late Gloria and Loring Sherman. She was also predeceased by her husband, Chad Silver. She is survived by her loving siblings: Larry E. (Chris) Sherman of Melbourne Beach, FL, David (Laurie) Sherman of Elmira, Daniel (Janet) Sherman of Pine City, and Scott (Peg) Sherman of Brunswick, GA; aunts: Joyce Jankowski, Joni Barneski and families, both of Elmira; along with several nieces and nephews. Gail was the owner and operator of Carriage Estates in Wellsburg for many years. She will be remembered for her beautiful smile, her love of all animals, especially her Arabian horses, playing her piano and great memories shared at the family home. At Gail's request, funeral services celebrating her beautiful life will remain private at the family's convenience. Please make memorials in Gail's name to benefit animals at the Kramer Foundation, C/O 3171 Watkins Road, Horseheads, NY or the Reins of Hope Inc. P.O. Box 206, Elmira, NY. –Elmira Star-Gazette 1/6/2016
 

SICKLES –BERNICE S. FORCER age 95 passed away peacefully in her sleep on Monday, January 4, 2016. She was the daughter of William Sickles and Harriet (Harvey) Sickles of Southport, NY. Bernice spent her early years raising her family in Millport and later Big Flats. She spent her retirement years in Tampa, FL with her husband, Horace B. Force before returning back to the area in 2000. Bernice was a resident at Elcor Nursing Home in Horseheads until her passing. She is survived by her son, William A. Force (Sylvia) of Elmira and her daughter, Betsy Force of Worcester, NY. Also, she is survived by her granddaughters, Lori Force-Phelps (Michael) of Pittsfield, MA and Teri Force-Drake (Cory) of Odessa. She is also survived by four great-granddaughters. Bernice was pre-deceased by her husband, Horace B. Force in 1997 and her son, Roger D. Force (Pete) in 1969. Bernice was a 2nd generation Irish American whose descendants emigrated from County Limirick. She is a direct descendent of James Joyce. Bernice was a homemaker for many years attending her sons' sporting events as well as her daughters' plays and musical events. Bernice enjoyed her summers in the Catskill Mountains surrounded by family and friends. Her final years were enjoyed in her great-granddaughters' company and family holidays. She was a dedicated mother as well as a doting and caring wife. She was a gracious grandmother. Bernice had a wonderful sense of humor and will remain a light in the memory of all who remember her. A private family memorial service will be held at the James D. Barrett Funeral Home in Elmira on Saturday, January 9, 2016. Donations can be made to Elcor Nursing Home in her name. –Elmira Star-Gazette 1/8/2016

RICHARD E. THRESHER - Those we love don’t go away, they walk beside us every day. Unseen, unheard, but always near, so loved, so missed, so very dear…Richard E. Thresher, 72 of Front St., Athens, PA passed away on December 28, 2015 following a brief period of declining health. Dick, as he was affectionately known by his family and friends was born on October 4, 1943 a son of Lilith (Bowman) Morningstar and step son of Elden Morningstar. He was a graduate of Athens High School class of 1962. For over 38 years, Dick was employed as a machinist for Ingersoll Rand. Dedicated and devoted to his community, Dick was a Life Member of the Valley Ambulance Corps where he served as an EMT. In addition, he also was a member of the Fire Department and Fire Police for Athens Township and Fire Department for Athens Borough. In 2002, he received the “Top Five” Fire Police Responders Award. When not assisting his community and others in need, Dick enjoyed spending time on his computer and building furniture. He will be greatly missed by his wife of 52 years, Joan (Zimmer) Thresher; his sons and daughter-in-law: Robert A. Thresher of Waverly, NY; Michael C. and Clarice Thresher of Sykesville, MD; his grandchildren: Noelle and Benjamin; and a special sister-in-law Betty Bradley of Waverly. Abiding with his wishes, there will be no services Those who wish may kindly consider a memorial contribution to the American Heart Association, 228 Russell Ave., Williamsport, PA; the American Diabetes Foundation, 150 Monument Road, Suite 100, Bala Cynwyd, Pennsylvania; the National Kidney Foundation of Pennsylvania, 3109 Forbes Ave Ste 101, Pittsburgh, PA or a charity of one’s choice in loving memory of Richard E. Thresher. Caring assistance is being provided by the Cooley Family of the Sutfin Funeral Chapel, 273 South Main St., Nichols. –Funeral home notice contributed by Carol Brotzman

VANDERPOOL –DONNA M. ROBINSON, age 58, of Wellsburg, passed away Monday, January 4, 2016 at the Arnot Ogden Medical Center. Donna was born February 21, 1957 in Elmira daughter of the late Edwin and Yvonne (Shores) Vanderpool. She was a graduate of Thomas A. Edison High School and was employed in the Shipping and Receiving Department at Trayer Products, Inc. prior to her illness. Donna enjoyed playing bingo being on the internet and camping, but found the greatest joy being with her family especially her grandchildren. She was married to Jeffrey L. Robinson on February 12, 2000 and enjoyed the 15 years they shared together. Survivors include her husband, Jeffrey L. Robinson of Wellsburg; daughters, Jessica Glosenger of Elmira, Michelle Allen of Wellsburg, Nicole Robinson of Elmira; 12 grandchildren; sisters, Dorothy (Don) Gallagher of Horseheads, Sharon Pier of Waverly; father-in-law, Stephen L. Robinson of Wellsburg; her canine companion Bella; several nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Donna was predeceased by her parents and her mother-in-law, Jean Robinson. Family and friends are invited to call from 5 to 7 PM Friday, January 8, 2016 at the Roberts Funeral Home, Inc. 279 Main Street, Wellsburg, NY. Her committal will be held at the conclusion of calling hours at 7 PM. Donations in her memory may be made to the family to offset her medical costs. The family would like to give special thanks to Ron & Diane Ness and Jackie Stabel for all their assistance, help and care. –Elmira Star-Gazette 1/6/2016

ROBERT ‘BOB’ WHEELER, 87, passed away at his home in Sarasota, FL on Wednesday, January 6, 2016. Formerly of Meshoppen and Springville, PA, Bob was the son of the late Fenn and Beatrice Wheeler. He was born on January 1, 1929 in Sherman, NY and moved to Tunkhannock, PA in 1937. He graduated from Tunkhannock High School in 1946 and then from the Penn State School of Agriculture in June 1950. Bob worked as a lab technician for Dairymen's League, NY and the Aldovin Dairy. He was a part-time agent for Nationwide Insurance. He operated his own business, the Wheeler Mobile Feed Service, from 1959 to 1965. He then became a bank teller for the Grange National Bank at that time based in Laceyville. He rose to the position of Chief Executive Officer and retired in 1990. Bob participated as a bank director and associate director until 2011, and was also on the Federal Reserve Bank Board for 3 years. Bob was a 60 year Mason and Past Master (1959) of the Franklin Lodge #263 F&AM. He was a member of the Wyoming County Camp of Gideon's International, and a charter member of Tunkhannock's barbershop chorus. Bob's interests also included antique cars and tractors. Bob married Katherine (Babe) Gyle on December 30, 1950. They lived in Meshoppen and Springville, and then moved to Florida in 2011. He was a member of the Meshoppen United Methodist Church where he served on many committees over the years. Bob also attended the St. John's Methodist Church in Sarasota. Bob is survived by Katherine, his wife of 65 years; his daughter, Vera Wheeler and husband Andy Anderson of LaPlata, Maryland, and his son, Fred Wheeler and wife Lisa of Sarasota, Florida. Bob has six grandchildren: Jay and Jonas Walters, Brittany Brown, Ashley Anderson, Trent and Calvin Wheeler. Bob also has 4 great grandchildren: Kylie Walters, Jonas and Genevieve Walters, and Grace Brown. Besides his parents, Bob was preceded in death by his sisters, Lois Meidenbauer and Shirley Beach, and nephew Jeff Beach. Funeral services to honor the life of Bob will be held on Saturday, January 16, at 12:00 noon, at the Meshoppen United Methodist Church. Interment will follow at the Overfield Cemetery in Meshoppen, PA. Family and friends may call at the church on Saturday from 11:00 AM until the time of the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Meshoppen United Methodist Church P Box 159, Meshoppen, PA or charity of donor’s choice. –Funeral home obit contributed by Carol Brtozman

RICHARD CARTER WHITE, age 80, of Retta, PA, passed away peacefully at his home, surrounded by his loving family on Tuesday, January 5, 2016. Richard was born on June 22, 1935 in Retta, PA the son of the late Clayton and Norma Carter White. He was a graduate of the Meshoppen High School with the Class of 1953. In high school, he was a member of the baseball team. Richard was an avid baseball and softball player throughout the years. Richard was a huge supporter of his favorite team, the Philadelphia Phillies. He also enjoyed bowling in various local leagues. On July 24, 1954 he married the former Betty Jean Carney and together they raised four children. He was a lifelong dairy farmer who owned and operated the R-Whiteway Farm in Retta, PA which is still in operation today. Richard loved spending time with his family and friends, especially his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He was an avid hunter and fisherman. He enjoyed his many trips to Canada, especially after purchasing his place at Pike Lake. He was a member of the Retta United Methodist Church and the Retta Men’s Club. Richard is survived by his loving wife of 61 years, Betty Jean White of Retta, PA; his four children: Boyce (Tammy) White of Meshoppen, PA, Carolette (Brian) Naylor of Retta, PA, Judy (Donald) Olshan of Factoryville, PA and Ronald (Terry) White of Retta, PA; grandchildren Candice (Josh) Kennedy, Chasty (Cesar) Alvarenga, Clayton (Natalie) White, Mary (AJ) Daley, Laura White, Megan (Daniel) Newhart, Brianna (Travis) Fryer, Jesse (Sabrina) Naylor, Christine Olshan, Tyler (Greta) White, Cameron White, and Ryan Stone; great-grandchildren Kiah Kennedy, Nevan Kennedy, Alexis Fryer, Karaya Faigle, Amanda Daley, Ian Norton, Tristin Fryer, Rylee Naylor, Brynn Fryer, Logan Alvarenga, Noah Alvarenga, Austin Daley, Tucker White, Scarlett Naylor and Colby Alvarenga. He is also survived by a sister Marlene Kelley; sister-in-law Marie McMicken, and several nieces and nephews. Besides his parents, Richard was preceded in death by sisters-in-law Doris Kolesar and Shirley Fuller; brothers-in-law: Burleigh Kelley, John Kolesar, and Lancer McMicken. The funeral service for Richard will be held on Friday, January 8, 2016 at 1:00 PM at the Retta United Methodist Church with Reverend Edward C. Kerber II of the church officiating. Interment will follow at the Retta Cemetery. Family and friends may call at the church from 11:00 AM until the time of the service. In lieu of flowers, those wishing may make memorial donations to the Retta United Methodist Church, 651 Retta Road, Montrose, PA. –Funeral Home Notice contributed by Carol Brotzman

WYGRALA –KATHRYN M. KATY’ VANDERPOOL, age 80, a lifelong resident of Laceyville, PA passed away on Christmas Eve, December 24, 2015 with her loving family by her side. Katy was born at home in Skinners Eddy, PA on July 24, 1935 a daughter of the late Emil W. & Marie M. “Mimi” Wygrala. She married Charles E. Vanderpool and they enjoyed 40 years of marriage before his passing on May 30, 1993. Having lived all of her life in Laceyville, she worked in the local dress factories. She was a member of the Spring Hill United Methodist Church and a member of the International Ladies Garment Workers Union. She was formerly a member of the Indian Hill Birthday Club. She enjoyed baking and cooking and was always entertaining her friends and family with meals in her home. A true gambler always wanting to hit the jackpot, she enjoyed going to the local casinos, especially Tioga Downs had made numerous trips to Las Vegas. She also enjoyed playing bingo. She would always look forward to playing weekly bingo at Park Place in Wyalusing and always had her mother by her side until her passing in 2011. She also enjoyed gardening and tending to her flowers around her home. She was a great seamstress and could mend and fix anything and also get any type of stain out of any piece of clothing. As an avid card player, she was always up for a game of cards. She enjoyed running the roads and visiting with her friends and most of all enjoyed being surrounded by her family. One to never sit still; she always lived life to its fullest, enjoying everyday. To know Katy was to love her. She was a loving and devoted mother, grandmother, great grandmother, and friend and will be missed by all who knew her. She is survived by two sons and daughter-in-laws; Philip & Vickie Vanderpool and Jack & Gail Vanderpool, all of Laceyville. Daughter and son-in-law, Lana & Duane Clark of Wyalusing. Also surving are five grandchildren: Branden & Eva Vanderpool, Nick & Kristy Vanderpool, all of Laceyville, Austen McGee of Towanda, and Jared Clark and Ashlyn Clark, both of Wyalusing. Five great grandchildren, Taylor, Jada, Nicholas Jr., Tacoma, and Quinn Vanderpool, all of Laceyville. She is also survived by a sister in law, Jean Wygrala of Towanda and by three nieces. She also leaves behind a host of many friends and her beloved cat, Baby. Besides her husband, she was predeceased by her father, Emil on October 30, 1988 and her mother, Marie on January 5, 2011. A great granddaughter, McKenzie June Vanderpool on March 7, 2014 and by a brother, James Donald Wygrala on April 6, 2014. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, December 29, 2015 at 11:00 AM from the Spring Hill United Methodist Church with family friend Lay Minister Vickie Ellis officiating. Interment will follow at the Lacey Street Cemetery. Family and friends may call on Monday, December 28, 2015 from 4:00-7:00 PM at the Sheldon Funeral Home, Main St., Laceyville. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to her granddaughter’s memorial fund, McKenzie June Vanderpool Memorial Fund, c/o PS Bank, PO Box 217, Wyalusing, PA or to the Spring Hill United Methodist Church, c/o Reverend Heather M. Baker-McAllister, PO Box 155, Wyalusing, PA. –Towanda Daily Review 12/27/2015

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Published On Tri-Counties Site On 24 APR 2016 Typed by Pat Mott Goea By Joyce M. Tice

 

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