Joyce's Search Tip - January 2008 Do You Know that you can search just the Obituaries on the site by using the three County Specific Obituary selections in the Partitioned search engine at the bottom of the Current What's New Page? You can narrow your search by including a key word in the cemetery name or a township name in addition to the surname you search. Then select the Find All Words option.  You'll also find obituary and other newspaper clippings using Clippings partition. Additional clippings can be found in the Birth, Marriage, and some other partitions.

Reading a series of obituaries from a single cemetery, as they are presented here, is like reading the multi-generational history of a community. These people were the local populace at a particular time. The people buried here knew each other, were neighbors, relatives and school mates. They attended church together and engaged in "trade" or business.  All people are listed in alphabetic order by surname at BIRTH. Women identified by a married alias only and  for whom a birth surname can not be identified, are listed on the last page for the cemetery's obituaries. Please send in typed obituaries for people buried in our local cemeteries. If possible include name of newspaper and date. Send typed in your email or in attached Word files. Send to Joyce M. Tice (JoyceTice@aol.com)

FLORETTA M. VANSYCKEL, 84, Wellsboro died June 14, 1999 at the Green Home where she resided.  Born December 3, 1914 in Canton, she was the daughter of the late Archie and Elsie Rutty VanSyckel.  She was a homemaker.  Surviving are sisters, Lois Pidcoe, Mansfield and Claribel Holcomb, Estella; several nieces and nephews.  A memorial graveside service will be held Saturday, June 26 at 4:00 p.m. at the Grover Cemetery, Canton with the Rev. Eugene H. Charsky officiating.  The family will provide the flowers.  Arrangements are by Tussey-Mosher Funeral Home, 139 Main Street, Wellsboro, PA.  –Canton Independent Sentinel

VARGESON - MRS. BERTHA MORGAN
 Mrs. Bertha I. Morgan, 92, of 410 Maple Avenue, Elmira, NY, formerly of Canton, and mother of Mrs. Arlene Biichle, of this city, died Tuesday, Aug. 23, 1988, in Arnot-Ogden Hospital, Elmira.  She leaves 128 direct descendants. Her husband, Daniel N. Morgan, died in Jan. 23, 1961. Born April 21, 1896, at Estella, she was a daughter of George and Edith Shoemaker Vargeson. Surviving, besides her daughter here, are two other daughters, Mrs. Agnes Quail, of Canton, and Mrs. Vivian Kieffer, of Elmira; four sons, Leslie, of Gillett, Bradford County, Raymond, at home, Vernon, of Elmira, and Duane, of Breesport, NY; a sister, Mrs. Louisa Sullivan, of Gillett, 28 grandchildren, 61 great-grandchildren and 32 great-great-grandchildren. The funeral will be at 1 pm Saturday at Morse and Kleese's, 40 North Center Street, Canton.  Burial will be in Grover Cemetery. Friends may call at the funeral home from 7 to 9 pm Friday.

VARGESON - MORGAN, MRS. BERTHA I.
 Age 92, of 410 Maple Ave, Elmira, NY, formerly of Canton, PA, Tuesday evening, August 23, 1988 at the Arnot Ogden Memorial Hospital, Elmira, NY.  Friends may call at the Morse & Kleese Funeral Home, 40 N. Center St. Canton, PA, Friday, August 26, 7 to 9 pm.  Funeral and Committal Services will be held there Saturday, 1 pm.  Burial, Grover Cemetery, Canton, PA.   Those wishing may send Memorial Donations to the American Heart Association.  Survived by 7 children and their spouses, Agnes and Ellery Quail of Canton, PA, Leslie and Mildred Morgan of Gillett, PA, Raymond Morgan at home, Vernon and Frances Morgan and Vivian and Paul Kieffer, all of Elmira, Duane and Annalee Morgan of Breesport, NY, Arlene and Frederick Biichle of Williamsport, PA; 28 grandchildren, 61 great grandchildren, 32 great, great grandchildren; sister, Mrs. Louisa Sullivan of Gillett, PA.  She was predeceased by her husband, Daniel N. Morgan, January 23, 1961.  She was born April 21, 1896, at Estella, PA, the daughter of George and Edith Shoemaker Vargeson.  She was a homemaker.

VARGASON Louise J. “Louisa” SULLIVAN, formerly a long time resident of Sullivan County and Canton, died on her 95th birthday Wednesday, August 12, 1998 at the Bradford County manor, Burlington, PA.  Born August 12, 1903 in Bear Mountain, Sullivan County, PA she was the daughter of the late George and Edith Shoemaker Vargason.  Mrs. Sullivan attended the Elmira Christian Center.  Surviving are daughters and sons-in-law, Berneda and George Cheesman of Shunk, PA, Marlene and Kenneth Brown of Grover, PA and Geraldine and Eugene Heinze of Forksville; sons and daughters-in-law Sheldon and Lucy Sullivan and his special friend Kathy Solcum, both of Mansfield, Alva and Nellie Sullivan of Allentown, PA and Larry and Linda Sullivan of Gillett RR 2; 30 grandchildren and 67 great-grandchildren; 15 great-great-grandchildren; numerous step-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and cousins.  In addition to her parents, Mrs. Sullivan was preceded in death by her husband, Emerson on May 1, 1981; a son Leo in 1951; a daughter, Thelma, in 1966; two sisters and two brothers.  Memorial services with held at the Pepper Funeral Home in Canton on February 14 with Mrs. Sullivan’s nephew, Rev. Kenneth Sullivan, officiating.  Interment will be held in the Grover Cemetery.  Memorials may be directed to the Canton Ambulance Association, PO Box 38, Canton, PA in Mrs. Sullivan’s memory.

VEENHOF –MAAYKE W. DEBRUIN, 92, formerly of the McCallum Manor in Canton, died Monday, August 16, 1999, while surrounded by her loving family.  Born April 9, 1907, in the Netherlands, she was a daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Veenhof.  Moe, as she was affectionately referred to by her family, enjoyed knitting and crocheting.  In later years, she loved playing bingo and cards with her friends at the McCallum Manor.  Moe’s main interest throughout life was the love she shared with her family.  She is survived by: eight daughters and sons-in-law – Jenny & Hans Holman of Elmira, Maayke & Abraham deKnect of Trout Run, Marie & Sjel Zaniman of Holland, Alie and Adrianus deJong of New Jersey, Corrie & Lee Denson of Elmira, Bertha & John Liddic, Johanna & Joe Wilcox, and Wilhelmina & Paul Dibble, all of Canton, two sons and daughters-in-law, William & Nona deBruin and Marinus deBruin and Shari O’Neal, all of Canton.  24 grandchildren, 31 great-grandchildren, 3 great-great-grandchildren, five step-grandchildren, and 14 step-great-grandchildren.  Mrs. deBruin was predeceased by her husband of 39 years, Cornelius deBruin, a grandson, Casey Wilcox, a daughter-in-law, Gree deBruin; and several brothers and sisters.  The family will receive friends from 1 to 3 p.m., Thursday, August 19, at the Pepper Funeral Home, Springbrook Drive, Canton.  The funeral service will immediately follow at 3 pm at the funeral home with Rev. Willard Strunk officiating.  Burial will follow in the Grover Cemetery.  The family suggest that memorials may be directed to a charity of one’s choice in Mrs. deBruin’s memory.

ELMO MERRICK ‘CORKY’ VERMILYA, 84, life-long Canton-area resident, died on Saturday, April 30, 2005, at the Williamsport Hospital.  Elmo Merrick Vermilya was born on Nov. 4, 1920 in Grover, the son of the late Merrick and Jennie (Kilborn) Vermilya.  He was married to Edith “Edie” (Reed) Vermilya for more than 54 wonderful years until her passing on Jan. 10, 2001.  Mr. Vermilya was a proud World War II veteran, serving as a ship fitter in the U.S. Navy in both the North and South Atlantic.  He also was involved in the Normandy invasion.  Corky was a self-employed house painter for the majority of his working years.  He was a lifetime member of the Canton V.F.W. Post No. 714.  Elmo loved being around his family and visited them often in recent years.  Highlights of many years were the Canadian fishing trips made with his son Jim and other family members.  He was known and loved as a very kind and decent gentleman who will be deeply and forever missed by his family.  Surviving are nine children and their spouses, Joseph C. and Helen Vermilya of Williamsport, Pa., James and Janet Vermilya of Windgap, Pa., William Vermilya of Williamsport, Nanette and Charles Swain of Rochester, N.Y., Cynthia A. Vermilya of Easton, Pa., Randy and Denise Vermilya of Perry, Ohio, Jeff and Paula Vermilya of Kennesaw, Ga., Eric Vermilya of Glenshaw, Pa., and Chris and Kathy Vermilya of Cannonsburg, Pa.; 19 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren; a brother, Francis Vermilya of California; a sister; Incel Stone of Virginia; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, dear friends and neighbors.  In addition to his beloved wife, Edie, Mr. Vermilya was predeceased by a daughter, Linda Jane Chestnut, in 1997; a son, Terry Lee Vermilya, in 1958; and three brothers, Clarence, James and Ted Vermilya.  The family invites friends to call from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday at Pepper funeral Home, Springbrook Drive, Canton.  The funeral and committal services will be held at the funeral home 11 a.m. Wednesday, May 4.  The Rev. Duane Taylor and Mr. Vermilya’s son, the Rev. Jeff Vermilya, will officiate.  Burial will be held in the Grover Cemetery with full military honors accorded.  His family suggests that those who wish, consider, a donation in Mr. Vermilya’s memory to the Canton V.F.W. Post No. 714 at P.O. Box 74, Canton, Pa. –Towanda Daily Review.

FLOYD C. VERMILYA, 76 OF Grover died Friday, Aug. 7, 1981 in the Troy Community Hospital, where he was admitted July 20.  His wife, Leone June Vermilya died July 18.  He was a member of the Grover Church of Christ and had served as the Republican Committeeman for Bradford County.  Survivors include two daughters, Mrs. George Corey, of Troy and Mrs. Robert Wheeler of Elmira, N.Y.; three sons, Frank E., Lyle V. and Glenford C. all of Canton; a sister, Mrs. Esther Griswold of Grover; 16 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren.  The funeral will be Monday at 11 a.m. at the Morse and Kleese Funeral home, 40 North Center Street, Canton with Pastor William T. McNett a lay clergyman officiating.  Burial will be in Grover Cemetery.  Friends may call at the funeral home today from 7 to 9 p.m.  The family will provide the flowers.  –Williamsport Sun-Gazette

GLENFORD C. VERMILYA, 61, Canton RR1, died following a recent illness, February 10, 1996 at Divine Providence Hospital, Williamsport.  Born October 26, 1934 in McNett Township, he was a son of the late Floyd and Leone June Vermilya.  Mr. Vermilya was a graduate of Canton High School class of 1952.  He owned and operated Vermilya’s Milk Hauling in Canton for 30 years and was an active member of the St. John’s United Methodist Church in Grover.  He served as past president of Quo Vadis Drug and Alcohol Rehabilitation Center, Towanda and also served on the board of Bradford County Drug and Alcohol Council.  He was supportive of the local Boy Scouts and sponsored many area sporting teams, was a well-known soloist and sang at numerous churches and weddings.  Mr. Vermilya’s main interests throughout life encompassed his family, church and dedication to helping others.  Surviving are his wife of 42 years, Marlene Vermilya; a son and daughter-in-law, Stephen and Judy Vermilya, Grover; a daughter, Suzanne K. Vermilya, Portland, ME; five grandchildren; two brothers and sisters-in-law, Frank Edgar “Ed” and Mary J. Vermilya and Lyle and Ginny Vermilya all of Canton; a sister and brother-in-law, Joyce and Robert Wheeler, Elmira, NY and several nieces, nephews and cousins.  In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by a son, John in 1974 and a sister, Clarice Corey in 1989.  The funeral and committal service was held February 13 at St. John’s United Methodist Church, Grover with its pastor, the Rev. James Weibly and former pastor, the Rev. Richard Leonard officiating.  Organist was Sherry Emillani.  Special music was provided by Elwin Hoose. Soloists were Mr. Vermilya’s son Stephen and nephew Denny Vermilya.  Pallbearers were Gerald Brown, Roger Hickok, Denny Vermilya, Don Heller, Joe Renzo and David Hertel.  Interment was held in Grover Cemetery.  The family suggests that memorials may be directed to St. John’s United Methodist Church, c/o Carol Hickok, RR 2 Box 340, Canton, PA or to a charity of one’s choice in Mr. Vermilya’s memory.  Arrangements were under the direction of the Pepper Funeral Home, Springbrook Drive, Canton.  –Canton Independent Sentinel

JOHN VERMILYA –The entire Canton area was saddened by the tragic death of 18-year old John Vermilya, Spring Brook Drive, Canton.  The popular young man was enroute home from Millerton where he had spent the evening with his fiancée, Miss Sherri Frank.  Also killed in the two-car accident was Miss Bonnie Lou Andrus 20, of Millerton RD 2.  Mansfield State Police said Miss Andrus was westbound on Route 328 when she apparently fell asleep of the wheel of her auto.  Her car crossed into the eastbound lane, where it collided with the Vermilya auto, police said.  Damage totaled $880.  John Vermilya was born in Sayre on Oct. 25, 1955, a son of Glenford and Marlene Calkins Vermilya.  He was a member of St. John’s United Methodist Church, Grover, where he played the drums in a musical group every Sunday evening.  A 1973 graduate of Canton Area High School, he was a member of the Steel Sun rock group.  His activities at CHS included the Astronomy Club, Dramatics, Audio=Visual Club, One-Act Play Festival Cast, Chorus, Operetta Crew, Senior Play and attended WACC in his senior year.  He was a fine young man and had many friends in the community, St. John’s Methodist Church and throughout his school years here.  He is survived by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Glenford Vermilya, with whom he lived; a sister, Suzanne at home; a brother, Stephen of Camp LeJeune, N.C. and grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. John Calkins of Canton and Mr. and Mrs. Floyd Vermilya of Grover.  The Rev. Wilma Barker Hoose, his pastor conducted funeral services Saturday afternoon in the Morse Funeral Home, 12 East Main St., Canton.  Many of his classmates and young friends attended the service.  Burial was in the Grover Cemetery.  Serving as pallbearers were: Alton Allen, Kenneth VanHorn, Gene Fromille, Les Turner, Donald Wooster, Thomas Morgan.  The young woman who was also killed in the same accident, July 18, 1974 is survived by her mother, Alice Peterson Andrus; brother, Richard of Elmira; maternal grandfather, Russell Andrus of Roaring Branch.  –Canton Independent Sentinel

VERMILYA, Stephen - Stephen Vermilya, 64, of Grover, PA passed away at home unexpectedly on Saturday,  November 4, 2018. Born to the late Glenford Charles and J. Marlene (Calkins) Vermilya, Stephen Glenford Vermilya was born November 9, 1953 in Sayre, PA.  After graduating from Canton High School in 1971, he attended Williamsport Area Community College for studies as a heavy equipment mechanic. In earlier years, Steve developed his talents as a local musician, singer and songwriter performing from the age of 11 with groups such as The Green Mist, The Messengers, Steel Sun and Spice of Life.  Music was always his passion throughout his life and later became his means to connect with others spiritually with the group Malachi and his family ministry eventually leading to his solo album, “He’s Alive” in 1986.  Steve was a proud patriot serving his country as a Sergeant in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1972 to 1976 where he was notably one of only three Marines to ever receive musical orders to entertain the troops while deployed.  On March 18, 1978, he married the former Judy Mills in Jacksonville, NC.   In 1981, Steve and his family returned to Pennsylvania where he spent the next 15 years working alongside his father, Glenford, in their family owned and operated business, Vermilya’s Milk Hauling, which he continued after his father’s passing until 2007.  He also dedicated 15 years to the Canton Ambulance Association as an EMT and driver and later worked for Cudd, Inc driving truck and working in the accounting department, where he retired in 2015. Steve’s life was guided by his faith in the Lord and he was a member of St. John’s United Methodist Church in Grover.  He was the 2nd Vice Commander of American Legion Post 303 in Canton and volunteered with the Honor Guard performing funeral services for fellow veteran’s burials.  Foremost, Steve was a devoted family man.  He enjoyed many interests including his ministry of God’s love in his life, restoring old tractors, riding motorcycles and RVing. In addition to Judy, his beloved wife of 40 years, surviving are his sister, Suzanne (Richard) Vermilya-McFaul of Bremen, Maine, five children, Stephen Grant (Michelle) Vermilya of Cedar City, Utah, Erik John Kling of Roaring Branch, Sondra Kay (Scott) Hammond of Spanish Fork, Utah, Jeremy Jacob Vermilya of Grover and Celeste Alaine  (John) Brucklacher of Liberty; 17 grandchildren, Braxton, Braydon, Canyon and Oakley Jo Ferguson; Trinity, Braydon, Dakota and Kaiden Hammond; Balazs and Dominick Vermilya; Viktoria Vermilya; Shawn Petersen and Kelly Zambrano; McKenna and Riley Kling; Abby and John “Jeb” Brucklacher; several nieces, nephews, cousins and many dear friends.  Also noted is his “adopted” daughter, Lisa Krise, and his two beloved dogs, Anika and Chloe. Steve was predeceased by his father Glenford in 1996, mother Marlene in 2010 and his brother John Vermilya in 1974.  Family invites friends to call 6 – 8 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 6 and 11 – 12 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 7, at Pepper Funeral Home & Cremation Facility, 578 Springbrook Dr., Canton.  At noon on Wednesday, Rev. Richard Leonard and Rev. Duane Taylor will officiate a memorial service in celebration of Steve’s life with full military honors accorded at the funeral home.   Burial will be in Grover Cemetery at a later date.  In Lieu of flowers, consider a donation to Nevus Outreach, Inc. at 600 SE Delaware Ave. Suite 200 in Bartlesville, OK 74003.  Please make a note that the donation is to be made in the name of  John “Jeb” Brucklacher, IV who is the grandson of Judy and Steve Vermilya and son of Celeste and John Brucklacher, III. – Williamsport Sun-Gazette, 6 November 2018

MR. MERRICK C. VERMILYA, 88 formerly of Canton died Thursday Nov. 18, 1976 at the Bradford County Manor in W. Burlington where he had lived for the past eight years.  He was born Feb. 23, 1888 in Morris, Tioga County, Pa. a son of S. K. and Rosette Jones Vermilya.  Mr. Vermilya was a member of the Grover Church of Christ.  He also was a member of the Canton Odd Fellows Lodge No. 321 since 1905 and a member of Canton Encampment N. 184.  Mr. Vermilya was a retired self-employed house painter and paper hanger.  Surviving are a daughter, Mrs. Encil Balmer of Riverside, Calif.; four sons, Elmo of Canton, James of Chicago, Ill. And Clarence and Francis, both of Riverside, Calif.; three half-sisters, Mrs. Joseph Whipple of Wellsburg RD 2, N.Y., Mrs. William Terrell of Newark, Del. And Mrs. Edna Hickok of Mosherville, Pa.; 23 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.  Funeral and committal services will be held at the Ralph T. Kleese Funeral Home, 40 N. Center St., Canton Saturday at 2 p.m.  Officiating will be the Rev. Duane Taylor, interim pastor of the Canton Church of Christ, Disciples.  Burial will be in the Grover Cemetery.   –Towanda Daily Review

VERMILYA –RUBY J. HAGER age 90 of Mainesburg RD 1, Monday, August 2, 1965.  Body at the Shaw-Robena Funeral Home, Mansfield.  Calling hours Tuesday 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m.  Funeral Wednesday at 2 p.m. in the Mainesburg Methodist church, the Rev. Glen Dewey.  Turner Cemetery, Grover, Pa.  Survived by daughter; Mrs. Daisy Fethers of Mainesburg RD 1; grandson, George Fethers of Mansfield RD 3; great-granddaughters, Deborah and Linda Fethers.  She was a member of the Mainesburg Methodist Church.  –Elmira Star-Gazette 8/3/1965

STEPHEN VERMILYA, 64, of Grover, Pennsylvania, passed away at home unexpectedly on Saturday,  Nov. 4, 2018. Born to the late Glenford Charles and J. Marlene (Calkins) Vermilya, Stephen Glenford Vermilya was born Nov. 9, 1953 in Sayre, Pennsylvania. After graduating from Canton High School in 1971, he attended Williamsport Area Community College for studies as a heavy equipment mechanic.  In earlier years, Steve developed his talents as a local musician, singer and songwriter, performing from the age of 11 with groups such as The Green Mist, The Messengers, Steel Sun and Spice of Life. Music was always his passion throughout his life and later became his means to connect with others spiritually with the group Malachi and his family ministry, eventually leading to his solo album, “He’s Alive” in 1986.  Steve was a proud patriot serving his country as a sergeant in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1972 to 1976 where he was notably one of only three Marines to ever receive musical orders to entertain the troops while deployed. On March 18, 1978, he married the former Judy Mills in Jacksonville, North Carolina. In 1981, Steve and his family returned to Pennsylvania where he spent the next 15 years working alongside his father, Glenford, in their family owned and operated business, Vermilya’s Milk Hauling, which he continued after his father’s passing until 2007. He also dedicated 15 years to the Canton Ambulance Association as an EMT and driver and later worked for Cudd, Inc. driving truck and working in the accounting department, where he retired from in 2015. Steve’s life was guided by his faith in the Lord and he was a member of St. John’s United Methodist Church in Grover.  He was the 2nd Vice Commander of American Legion Post 303 in Canton and volunteered with the Honor Guard performing funeral services for fellow veteran’s burials. Foremost, Steve was a devoted family man. He enjoyed many interests including his ministry of God’s love in his life, restoring old tractors, riding motorcycles and RVing. In addition to Judy, his beloved wife of 40 years, surviving are his sister, Suzanne (Richard) Vermilya-McFaul of Bremen, Maine; five children, Stephen Grant (Michelle) Vermilya of Cedar City, Utah, Erik John Kling of Roaring Branch, Sondra Kay (Scott) Hammond of Spanish Fork, Utah, Jeremy Jacob Vermilya of Grover and Celeste Alaine  (John) Brucklacher of Liberty; 17 grandchildren, Braxton, Braydon, Canyon and Oakley Jo Ferguson; Trinity, Braydon, Dakota and Kaiden Hammond; Balazs and Dominick Vermilya; Viktoria Vermilya; Shawn Petersen and Kelly Zambrano; McKenna and Riley Kling; Abby and John “Jeb” Brucklacher; several nieces, nephews, cousins and many dear friends.  Also noted is his “adopted” daughter, Lisa Krise, and his two beloved dogs, Anika and Chloe. Steve was predeceased by his father Glenford in 1996, mother Marlene in 2010 and his brother John Vermilya in 1974. Family invites friends to call from 6 – 8 p.m., Tuesday, Nov. 5 and 11 a.m. to noon on Wednesday, Nov. 6, at Pepper Funeral Home & Cremation Facility, 578 Springbrook Dr., Canton.  At noon on Wednesday, Rev. Richard Leonard and Rev. Duane Taylor will officiate a memorial service in celebration of Steve’s life, with full military honors accorded at the funeral home. Burial will be in Grover Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers, consider a donation to Nevus Outreach, Inc. at 600 SE Delaware Ave. Suite 200 in Bartlesville, OK.  Please make a note that the donation is to be made in the name of  John “Jeb” Brucklacher, IV who is the grandson of Judy and Steve Vermilya and son of Celeste and John Brucklacher, III. –Towanda Daily Review 11/6/2018

LYNN H. WAGNER - On Thursday, June 19, 2008 Lynn H. Wagner of Burlington went home to be with the Lord after a brief stay at the Robert Packer Hospital.  He was 62 years of age.  Born July 21, 1945 in Muncy, he was the son of James and Helen (Godfrey) Wagner.  Early in life Lynn was stricken with cerebral palsy, but he never let it hold him back.  He saw his handicap not as a barrier, but merely a challenge. He worked for many years as a security guard with the Pinkerton agency.  It was during this time that Lynn met his future wife, the former Janet Stone.  Lynn was a man who knew the Lord and loved him with all his heart.  He had been an active member of the Saco Hill Christian Church for many years where he sang the Lord's praises in the church choir, and served as a lay speaker.  Lynn often spoke in the pulpits of several area churches, as well as serving as a lay chaplain at Memorial Hospital and Bradford County Manor for as long as his health would permit.  He also had a puppet ministry, featuring "Farley D. Bear," which he often incorporated into his chaplain duties.  At the time of his passing, Lynn and Janet were in the midst of establishing a new church in their community.  With his warm personality and love for his fellow human beings, Lynn touched many lives in Bradford County and will be greatly missed.  He is survived by his wife, Janet, at home; sister, Andrea (and Jack) Parker of Delaware; niece Ann Louise of Delaware; and nephew Mark of Maryland; one great niece, two great nephews, several sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law on his wife's side and two beloved companions, his cat, Joc, and his dog, Morgan.  He was preceded in death by his parents.  A celebration of Lynn's life will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, June 21, at Saco Hill Christian Church, with Rev. William Shepherd of the Ogdensburg Church, officiating.  There will be visitation at the church from 12:30 to 1 p.m.  Following the service, internment will proceed in the Grover Cemetery, Canton Township.  The family will provide the flowers, and suggest that memorial contributions in Lynn's name be made to the Noble Road Fellowship Church, c/o Mary Isbell, RR 2 Box 64, Ulster, PA.  Professional services have been entrusted to Morse & Kleese Funeral Home, Canton.  –Canton Independent-Sentinel 6/28/2008

FRANK J. WARD, 66, died Thursday, July 28, 1938 at the family home at Leolyn, Pa.  He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Kate Ward; a daughter, Mrs. Garth McNett and a son, Norman C. Ward of Leolyn; four sisters, Mrs. Minnie Beers and Mrs. Mae Ward of Elmira, Mrs. Jennie Saxon of Ralston, Pa; Mrs. Ida Owens of Leolyn; four grandchildren.  Funeral Saturday, 2 p.m. at the family home, Rev. Mr. Fahr of Ralston.  Burial Grover Cemetery, Canton, Pa.  –Elmira Star-Gazette 7/28/1938

WARD –MRS. MARIAN E. MCNETT, 90, Roaring Branch RR 1, died, Oct. 7, 1992, in the Troy Community Hospital.  Mrs. McNett was born July 11, 1902 at English Hill, Tioga County, PA, a daughter of Frank and Kate Penrod Ward.  She was a homemaker and attended the Newelltown United Methodist Church.  Surviving are two sons, Jack, Canton and James, Houston, TX; a daughter, Miss Eloise McNett, Canton; stepson Samuel McNett, Millport, NY; five grandchildren, Dr. Dale McNett, Warren, PA, Jerry and Craig McNett, Canton, and Sarah and Christopher McNett, Houston; seven great-grandchildren; and a sister-in-law, Mrs. Ruby Ward, Canton RR 1.  Mrs. McNett was predeceased by her husband, Woods Garth McNett on Sept. 1, 1987; a daughter, Miss Kathryn McNett, on Feb. 20, 1986; a son, Thomas McNett; and a brother, Norman Ward on Nov. 8, 1986.  The funeral service was conducted from the Morse and Kleese Funeral Home, Canton on Oct. 10.  The Rev. Phyllis Hunter, pastor of the Newelltown United Methodist Church, officiated.  Interment was in Grover Cemetery.  Memorial donations may be directed to a charity of one’s choice in Mrs. McNett’s memory.  –Canton Independent Sentinel.

WATKINS - AUSTIN, EMMA C.  Private services for Emma C. Austin, 89, formerly of Canton, were held Mar. 2 at Morse-Kleese Funeral Home with Rev. David B. Morris officiating.  Burial was in Grover Cemetery.  Mrs. Austin died Feb. 28, 1984 at Skilled Nursing Unit, Memorial Hospital, Towanda.  She was born July 16, 1894 in Arnot Cty., daughter of David and Carrie Hopkins Watkins.  She was a member of the Church of Christ Disciples, Canton, for 71 years.  She was a member of Canton VFW Post 714 Aux. and member of the Canton Rebekah Lodge.  She was also a member of Canton Sr. Citizens.  She is survived by sons, David of Gillett, Elwin of Big Flats, NY, Edward of Troy and Leon (Bud) of Canton; daughters, Mrs. Virginia Roupp of Elmira and Mrs. Harold (Edna) Landon of Canton; 31 grandchildren; 38 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandson; sister, Nettie Brooks of Bath, NY; several nieces, nephews and cousins.  (TGR March 8,1984)

WATKINS –EMMA C. AUSTIN, 89, a former resident of Canton, died Tuesday, Feb. 28, 1984 at the Skilled Nursing Unit of Memorial Hospital, Towanda.  Mrs. Austin was born July 18, 1894 in Arnot, Tioga County, Pa., the daughter of David and Carrie Hopkins Watkins.  She was a member of the Church of Christ Disciples, Canton, for 71 years.  Mrs. Austin was a member of the Canton V.F.W. Post No. 714 Auxiliary and a member of the Rebekah Lodge, Canton, and was a past noble grand matron.  She was also a member of the Canton Senior Citizens.  She was predeceased by her husband, Clarence Austin, on Jan. 13, 1981.  Mrs. Austin is survived by four sons, David Austin of Gillett RD 2, Elwin of Big Flats, N.Y., Edward of Troy RD 3 and Leon (Bud) of Canton; two daughters, Mrs. Virginia Roupp of Elmira, N.Y. and Mrs. Harold (Edna) Landon of Canton RD 2; 31 grandchildren; 38 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandson; a sister, Mrs. Nettie Brooks of Bath, N.Y.; several nieces, nephews and cousins.  A private family funeral and committal service will be held Friday, March 2, at 1 p.m. at the Morse-Kleese Funeral Home, 40 N. Center St., Canton, with Rev. David B. Morris, her pastor, officiating.  Burial will be in the Grover Cemetery.  Friends may call at the funeral home Thursday from 7 to 9 p.m.  Memorial donations may be directed to the Canton Church of Christ Disciples, in Mrs. Austin’s memory. –Canton Independent Sentinel.

 

WATKINS George Frederick Watkins

84, lifelong resident of Canton, Pa., (Union Twp.) died on Sunday, Jan. 30, 2011 from the Bradford County Manor.  Known as "Fred" or "Fritz" to family and friends, he was born on Aug. 5, 1926 on the family farm in North Union, Tioga County, Pa. He was the son of the late Fred and Edna (Wilcox) Watkins.   On April 9, 1947, Fred married the former Virginia Lee Wooster at her parents' home. He and Virginia made their home on the Watkins' farm where they shared over 53 years together and raised three children. Fred's life work was dairy farming and cattle hauling. He enjoyed times spent visiting with area farmers while picking up their cattle for weekly sales or making trips to the Troy Veterinary Clinic. Fred was an active member and elder of the Grover Church of Christ. He sang in the choir and looked forward to church functions. He was also a member of the North Union Grange No. 784.  Surviving are his three children, Ann (Frank) Campbell of Grover, Cindy (Luther) Fitzwater of Troy and Tom (Penne) Watkins of Canton; six grandchildren, John (Stephanie) Campbell of Mechanicsburg, Rose Campbell attending Messiah College, Alex Summers of Troy, Olga Summers of Texas, Kelsey (Dane) Dowling and Logan Watkins, both of Canton; a great-grandson, Aaden Dowling; a niece and nephew; Dianne (Erwin) Spencer of Roaring Branch and Larry (Janice) Wooster of Bentley Creek; a brother-in-law, Carty (Eleanor) Wooster of Roaring Branch and several cousins.  Fred was predeceased by his wife Virginia on Nov. 12, 2000.  Friends may call 10 a.m. – noon Thursday, Feb. 3, at Pepper Funeral Home, Springbrook Drive in Canton. The funeral and committal services will follow at noon with Pastor Will Strunk officiating. Burial will be in Grover Cemetery. His family suggests those who wish may make memorials in Fred's name to the Grover Church of Christ Memorial Fund, P.O. Box 139 Grover, PA 17735.  Towanda Daily Review – February 1, 2011

 

WATKINS –MRS. MARY M. BOYCE age 74 of Roaring Branch RD 2 Sunday, August 19, 1973 at the Troy Community Hospital.  Calling hours will be Monday 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. at the Morse Funeral Home.  Funeral services will be held there Tuesday at 2 p.m. Rev. Harry Krouse.  Interment Grover Cemetery.  Survived by two foster sons, Robert Boyce of Williamsport, Pa., Foster Boyce of Tunkhannock; five grandchildren; several nieces and nephews.  She was a member of the Newelltown United Methodist Church and The Carpenter Grange No. 454 and the Tioga County Rural Mail Carriers Auxiliary.  –Elmira Star-Gazette

WATKINS - MARY WATKINS BOYCE
Williamsport Sun Gazette - August 20, 1973
MRS. MARY M. BOYCE, 74, of Roaring Branch RD2, foster mother of Robert Boyce of this city, died Sunday, Aug. 19, 1973, in the Troy Community Hospital.  She was the widow of Leonard Boyce.  She was born in Union Twp., Tioga County, on April 10, 1899, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William Watkins.  Mrs. Boyce was a member of the Newelltown United Methodist Church.  She was also a member of the Carpenter Grange, Newelltown, and the auxiliary of the Tioga County Rural Mail Carriers.  Also surviving is another foster son, Foster Boyce of Tunkhannock.  The funeral will be a 2 pm Tuesday at Morse’s, 12 East Main St., Canton with the Rev. Harry D. Krause, her pastor, officiating.  Burial will be in Grover Cemetery.  Friends may call at the funeral home from 7 to 9 tonight.  Submitted by:  George and Peg Boyce

WATTS –GLADYS L. ELLIS, 74, wife of Robert A. Ellis of Canton RD 1 died at her home Sunday afternoon, April 17, 1983 following a lengthy illness.  Born in Canton on Oct. 10, 1908 she was a daughter of Clyde and Margaret Mae Doud Watts.  She was a life member of the former Canton Methodist Church and of its Friendly Missionary Society.  Mrs. Ellis was a bookkeeper and a partner in her husband’s heating and coal contracting business for 45 years.  She was a member of the Canton Lady Rebekah Lodge No. 362, serving in all the local offices and also as a state officer.  She and her husband were married for 53 years.  Surviving, in addition to her husband are a daughter and son-in-law, Leora W. and Ralph Wilcox of Canton RD 1; a son and daughter-in-law, Clyde R. and Nancy Ellis of Stewartston, Pa.; seven grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; a brother J. Ernest Watts of Vestal, N.Y.; nieces, nephews and cousins.  The funeral will be Wednesday at 2 p.m. at the Morse and Kleese Funeral Home, 40 N. Center St., Canton, Pa.  Burial will be in the Grover Cemetery.  The Rev. John S. Millen, pastor of the Canton Ecumenical Parish will officiate.  Friends may call at the funeral home today from 3:30 to 5 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m.  The Canton Lady Rebekah Lodge will hold a memorial service this evening at 8:00 at the funeral home.  Memorial contributions may be made to the Canton Community Nursing Service.  –Towanda Daily Review
 

WELCH – Mrs. Myrtle Welch Gail, 70, of 45 Troy St., Canton, PA died suddenly Thursday morning, April 6, 1961, at her home. Mrs. Gail and her husband, who died several years ago, operated Gail’s Restaurant for 10 years. Born at Mansfield RD, Jan. 5, 1891, she was the daughter of Elmer and Ella Smith Welch. She was a member of Canton Lodge No. 981, Women of the Moose. Surviving are two sons, Donn Calkins of Canton and Faye Calkins of Corning, NY; 7 grandchildren; 10 great grandchildren; one brother, Gus Welch of Mansfield RD. Funeral services were conducted at Kleese’s Funeral Home, Canton, on Saturday at 2 PM, the Rev. Herman C. Humke pastor of the First Presbyterian Church officiating. Burial was in Grover Cemetery. – Mansfield Advertiser, 12 April 1961, p.4

WESNESKI Mary Lou DUNBAR, age 58, of Canton, PA died at her home September 16, 2001.  Born November 2, 1942 in Gleason, PA she was one of nine children born to the late Charles and Helen Louise Page Wesneski.  Mary Lou was a homemaker.  She is survived by her husband of 41 years Larry C. Dunbar at home; daughters and sons-in-law, Lou Ann and Paul Slater and Pam and Paul Pidcoe, all of Canton, PA; sons and daughters-in-law, Larry T. and Melissa Dunbar and Chuck and Georeanna Dunbar, all of Canton; six grandchildren; sisters and brothers-in-law, Jane and Donald Ogden of Blossburg, PA, Frances and Stanley Wilston of Williamsport, PA, Louise and Daniel Woodward of Troy, PA and Shirley Allen of Canton; brothers and sisters-in-law, William and Delores Wesneski of Blossburg, PA and Edward and Sharon Wesneski of Alba, PA; many nieces and nephews; and a special friend Pastor Nancy Goff.  In addition to her parents, Mary Lou was predeceased by brothers, Robert and Harold Weskneski.  Funeral services were held at the Pepper Funeral Home in Canton with Pastor Nancy Goff and the Rev. Jasper Smith officiating and interment to be in Grover Cemetery.

WESNESKI –MARY LOU DUNBAR, 58, while surrounded by her loving family, Mary Lou Dunbar, 58, of Canton, peacefully died to join her mother in heaven Sunday morning, Sept. 16, 2001, at her home.  Born Nov. 2, 1942, in Gleason, she was one of nine children born to the late Charles and Helen Louise Page Wesneski.  Mary Lou was a devoted homemaker.  Her main interest throughout life encompassed the love she shared with her family.  Mary Lou also enjoyed collecting many different types of “Knick-Knacks”.  She is survived by her husband of 41 years, Larry C. Dunbar at home; two daughters and sons-in-law, LouAnn and Paul Slater and Pam and Paul Pidcoe, all of Canton; two sons and daughters-in-law, Larry T. and Melissa Dunbar and Chuck and Georgeanna Dunbar, all of Canton; six grandchildren, Lindsey and Megan Slater; Jennifer, Joshua, Parker and Karlind Dunbar; four sisters and brothers-in-law, Jane and Donald Ogden of Blossburg, Frances and Stanley Wilston of Williamsport, Louise and Daniel Woodward of Troy, Shirley Allen of Canton; two brothers and sisters-in-law, William and Delores Wesneski of Blossburg and Edward and Sharon Wesneski of Alba; many nieces, nephews and cousins, and a very special friend, Pastor Nancy Goff.  In addition to her parents, Mary Lou was predeceased by two brothers, Robert and Harold Wesneski.  A private family viewing will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. Tuesday at the Pepper Funeral Home, Springbrook drive, Canton.  The family invites friends to call from 7 to 9 p.m. Tuesday.  The funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 19, at the funeral home, with Pastor Nancy Goff officiating and the Rev. Jasper Smith assisting.  Interment will follow in the Grover Cemetery.  Honorably acting as pallbearers are Dick Lepper, Tom Boyd, Gene, Tink, Ron and Jerry Wesneski.  The family suggests that those who wish may make donations in Mrs. Dunbar’s memory to the Juvenile Diabetes Research foundation Center, Pennsylvania Chapter; 3607 Rosemont Ave., Suite 404, Camp Hill, PA or the American Kidney Fund, 6110 Executive Blvd., Suite 1010 Rockville, MD.  –Towanda Daily Review.

WETTLAUFER –NANCY JANE (WETTLAUFER) CAMPBELL, Ralston died quietly at the Williamsport Hospital, February 18, 1999 after a brave battle with a lengthy illness.  She was born February 22, 1920 in Cascade, PA to Frank and Nancy (Shires) Wettlaufer.  She developed skills as a seamstress and this talent would ultimately serve her well in the ensuing years.  She worked for may years in the garment industry for such firms as Weldon’s Apparel and Glamorize foundation.  In March of 1938 she married Lloyd Campbell and they shared 38 years together until his passing in 1976.  Mrs. Campbell was perfectly contented to stay at home and tend to her house and family except for Bingo night.  She was a well-known personality at the Ralston Fire Hall and at just about every other venue for the game.  She enjoyed working jigsaw puzzles, cooking and baking.  Her homemade breads and biscuits were well known even beyond the scope of her family.  She always enjoyed the holidays, as it gave her the opportunity to outdo herself in the kitchen.  Surviving are her daughters, Shirley (and Bud) Apker, Marsh Hill and Dolores (Torrence) Bonnell, Ralston; brothers Ellis (Grace) Wettlaufer and George Wettlaufer, Bodines; John (Helen) Wettlaufer, Williamsport; James (Helen) Wettlaufer, Florida and Raymond Wettlaufer, Bodines; sisters Caroline (Francis) Livermore, Cogan Station; Viola (Ben) Gair and Susan Betts, Williamsport; and granddaughters Wendy Adams, Jeannie Smith, Diane Winner and Debra Morgan.  In addition to her husband she was predeceased by a granddaughter, Joycelyn Lewis.  Funeral services were held at the Morse and Kleese funeral Home, February 22, 1999 with the Rev. Daniel Speer, pastor of the City Church of Williamsport officiating.  Interment followed in the Grover Cemetery. –Towanda Daily Review.

WHEAT –MRS. ROSSALYND BEBBLE, 55, wife of James W. Bebble, died suddenly at her home, 430 West Forth Street, Monday evening at 7 o’clock.  Death was due to a heart attack, it was reported.  Besides her husband she is survived by three daughters and seven sons as follows:  Mrs. Charles Apker, this city, Mrs. Donald Williamson, Naugatuck, Conn., Marjorie, at home, Victor, Lewis, George, Bert and Donald, this city, Paul, Naugatuck, and Benjamin, Leolyn; five sisters, Mrs. Elmer Everitts, Breesport, N.Y., Mrs. Leon Ives, Tonawanda, N.Y., Mrs. James Gibbs, Buffalo, N.Y., Mrs. P. J. Lemmunyan, Elmira, and Mrs. James Raker, this city; two brothers, Paul Wheat, Penn Yan, N.Y., and Lewis, Stockley, N.Y.  Funeral services will be held Friday morning at 10:30 o’clock at the Bastian’s Funeral Home with the Rev. Foster Fuller, pastor of the Newberry Church of Christ, officiating. Interment will be made in Turner Cemetery at Cedar Ledge.  Friends may call at the home 430 West Fourth Street, after 5 o’clock Wednesday afternoon.  (Parents Benjamin and Martha Wheat, born 1883, died 1939)

WHITMAN, THAD W.,  Services for Thad Walter Whitman, 73, Canton, were held from Morse & Kleese Funeral Home on April 6 with  Rev. John J. Mullen officiating.  Interment was in Grover Cemetery. Mr. Whitman  died April 4, 1984 at Troy Community Hospital.  He was born May 2, 1910 in Williamsport, son of Fred and Nell Walter Whitman.  He was a member of Canton Ecumenical Parish, member of Canton VFW Post No. 714.  He was a 1928 graduate of Canton High School and was a WWII Air Force veteran.  He is survived by cousins and numerous friends.  (TGR April 12, 1984)