Charles J. Palmer, Sr.
April 12, 2004
Charles J. Palmer, Sr., 92, of RR4, Wyalusing (Standing Stone Township), PA, passed away on Monday, April 12, 2004 at the Skilled Nursing Unit, Memorial Hospital, Towanda.
Born April 9, 1912 in Sugar Notch, he was the son of the late Stanislas Plominski and Josephine Brozdowski Plominski.
In early years, Charles grew up in Sugar Notch and Warrior Run and attended Hanover High School in Hanover. He then moved to New York City during the Depression to help support his family. Charles owned and operated a large laundry service in New York City and later moved to Stamford, CT for five years, where he owned and operated a restaurant until he was drafted into the U.S. Army during World War II.
He served in England and Scotland and was in England during the V1 bombings.
After four years of military service, he was honorably discharged as a staff sergeant and moved back to Stamford, where he met the love of his life, Helen. They were married and moved to Westport, CT and opened the Evergreen Restaurant at Railroad Place, which he operated for over 20 years. During this time, Charles met many celebrities and other famous individuals, such as Eleanor Roosevelt. He retired to the Bradford County area in 1981.
Charles was a communicant of St. Mary’s of the Assumption Catholic Church in Wyalusing.
He was a life member of Beirne-Webster VFW Post No. 1568, Towanda; a member of the VFW in Westport, CT and was a long-time supporter of the Westport Little League. Charles loved the New York Yankees.
Surviving are his daughter and son-in-law, Claire and Norman Nickeson of Sugar Run; two sons and daughters-in-law, Charles J., Jr. and Robin Palmer of Wyalusing RR4 and John P. and Julie Palmer of Wysox; 10 grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; a sister, Helen Priam of Spotswood, NJ; a brother, Walter Plominski and his wife, Margaret of Swoyersville; his sisters-in-law, Catherine, Marjorie and Millie and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Helen Palmer; a daughter, Patricia Palmer; a grandson, Stephen James Booker; a sister, Essie and brothers, Max, Ed, Zigmund and Stanley.
The family received friends on Tuesday evening from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Maryott-Bowen Funeral Home, 217 York Ave., Towanda.
A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Wednesday, April 14 at 10:30 a.m. at St. Mary’s of the Assumption Catholic Church in Wyalusing. Interment followed in SS Peter and Paul’s Cemetery, North Towanda, with Towanda American Legion Post 42 according full military honors.
The family requests that memorial donations be directed to St. Mary’s of the Assumption Church, Wyalusing, PA 18853 in Charles J. Palmer, Sr.’s memory.
Donald Barker
April 6, 2004
Donald Mervin Barker, age 75, of Dushore, PA, passed away on Tuesday, April 6, 2004 at the Memorial Hospital, Towanda.
Don was born in Panora, IA, Aug. 27, 1928, son of the late Mervin and Mabel Bailey Barker. He graduated from the Panora High School, a member of the Class of 1946, and also attended the University of Maryland. His entire career was spent with Western Union, working in England, Maryland, Washington, DC and retiring in New York City in 1984 as a Senior Director. He and Vi retired to Sullivan County in 1993.
Surviving are his spouse, the former Violet Ann Jagusiak, at home; a son and daughter-in-law, Robert and Carol Barker, Lynchburg, TN; daughters and sons-in-law, Sandra and George Bellias, Morris Plains, NJ, Amy Standera, Frenchtown, NJ; brothers and sisters-in-law, Delbert C. and Mary Barker, Blue Springs, MO, Michael and Terry Barker, Omaha, NE; stepchildren and spouses, Martin Faulborn, Gladstone, NJ, Christopher Faulborn, Hillsboro, NJ, James and Peggy Faulborn, Belvedere, NJ, Karen Boos, Brooksville, FL; seven grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.
Funeral services were held at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, E. Millstone, NJ on Tuesday, April 13, with Msgr. Raymond Cole presiding. Interment was in the Cedarhill Cemetery in E. Millstone.
Friends called at the P. Dean Homer Funeral Home, 206 Water St., Dushore, on Thursday, April 8 from 7 to 9 p.m.
Marion Bryant Smith
April 8, 2004
Marion B. Smith died April 8, 2004 at Mt. Nittany Medical Center, State College, PA, following a brief illness. For the past nine years, she resided at Renaissance, 1105 Plaza Drive, State College.
Born July 13, 1909 in North Jackson, she was the daughter of the late Clayton and Mary Bryant. On June 4, 1937 in Glenburn, she married Richard Lyman Smith of Springville. They were married over 53 years and lived in Springville for the duration. Her husband preceded her in death on March 6, 1991. She was also preceded in death by her brothers, Robert, Dr. Jay and Carlton Bryant.
After receiving her teaching certificate at Penn State in 1930, she moved to Springville to teach elementary school. From that time until 1969, she taught second grade, first in Springville, then at Elk Lake, with a hiatus to raise her children. She was a dedicated, caring and very skillful teacher, as well as a devoted and loving wife, mother, aunt and friend. She will be missed by all who knew her.
She was a long-time member of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, Montrose, and the Retired Teachers Association.
She is survived by daughter and son-in-law, Suzanne and James L. Karg of Springville; son and daughter-in-law, Dr. Richard B. and V. Carol Smith of State College and Springville. Also surviving are seven grandchildren: Ann Marie Karg of Springville, Christine Karg-Palreiro of Ashburn, VA, Rhonda Karg of Durham, NC, James D. Karg of Acworth, GA, Mary (Karg) May of Marietta, GA, Jennifer (Smith) Rauch of State College and Marion M. Smith of State College. Also surviving are seven great-grandchildren, as well as several nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be held at Bartron-Myer Funeral Home, 74 Church St., Montrose, on Thursday, April 15 from 7 to 9 p.m. Memorial services will be held at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 60 Church St., Montrose, on April 16 at 1 p.m.
Memorial contributions may be made to St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, P.O Box 314, Montrose, PA 18801 or to the charity of your choice.
William Lutz, Sr.
April 8, 2004
Mr. William D. Lutz, Sr., age 76, of RR2, Box 269, Mehoopany, PA (Lovelton), passed away on Thursday afternoon, April 8, 2004 at Tyler Memorial Hospital in Tunkhannock after a long illness.
He was born in South Auburn, Susquehanna County, on July 13, 1927, the son of the late George, Sr. and Florence Bunnell Lutz.
Mr. Lutz was a graduate of the Meshoppen High School, Class of 1945, after which he attended and later graduated from the University of Tennessee. After college, he served in the U.S. Navy, serving in the Pacific Theater, mostly in Japan and the Philippines. After college he owned and operated Lutz’s Garage in Wyalusing for many years, during the 1950s and 1960s. William was later employed by Daniels Construction, where he worked at Procter and Gamble Paper Products in Mehoopany and was also employed by Daniels in Vermont, retiring in 1990.
He was a member of the Hollenback United Methodist Church, the Wyalusing VFW and the Wyalusing American Legion Post #534.
Surviving are his wife of 43 years, the former Donna B. Brown; two sons and their wives, William, Jr. and Kathy Lutz of Wyalusing and Randy and Linda Lutz of New Albany; a daughter and her husband, Denise and Tim Delamarter of South Auburn; four brothers and sisters-in-law, Carlos (Toad) and Phyllis Lutz of Goffstown, NH, George (Bud) and Betty Lutz of Nineveh, NY, Victor and Carol Lutz of Cincinnatus, NY and Paul and Roberta Lutz of Camptown; two sisters and brothers-in-law, Pearl and Robert Long of Geneva, NY and Lottie Crosby of Belleville, MI; four grandchildren, Zechariah and Mariah Lutz of Wyalusing and Marshall McCarty and Kahlan Delamater of South Auburn; a special niece, Becky Lutz Smith of Wyalusing, and several other nieces and nephews.
Memorial services were held on Monday, April 12 at 11 a.m. from the South Auburn United Methodist Church with Rev. Beverly Murphy of the church officiating. Interment will be at a later date at the convenience of the family. At the request of Mr. Lutz, there will be no calling hours.
Arrangements were made through the Sheldon Funeral Home, Main St., Laceyville.
The family furnished their own flowers, but those wishing may make a memorial contribution to the Laceyville Library, PO Box 68, Laceyville, PA 18623 or to the Northeast Health and Hospice, 38 North Main St., Pittston, PA 18640.
Russell Snyder
April 3, 2004
Russell Sheldon (Skip) Hill Snyder, age 72, of Mineola, TX, formerly of the Sullivan County, PA area, passed away peacefully on Saturday, April 3, 2004 at Trinity Mother Frances Hospital in Tyler, TX, with his family at his side.
Skip was born March 20, 1932, a son of Nedra Kline Snyder and the late Stewart Lloyd Hill. He attended the Sonestown High School, a member of the Class of 1950. Skip served in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War. He married the former Dorothy Louise Culver of Laceyville, PA on March 4, 1954 in Towson, MD.
Skip worked for Fitzpatrick & Lambert in Dushore and then was employed by Bethlehem Steel Company of Lackawanna, NY for 28 years and was a member of REBCO. After retiring, he became vice-president of Schoenle Construction in Carrollton, TX. He later became vice-president of Keepsake Pictures, Dallas, TX and moved to Mineola.
Skip was a member of the Laceyville American Legion Post #510 at Black Walnut and a member of the Loyal Order of the Moose for 40 years. He was a past president of the New York State Snowmobile Coordinating Group and was vice-president and member of the board of directors of the Enchanted Lakes Property Association.
Skip loved to hunt and fish and travel with his best friend and spouse, Lou. He also loved to work on computers and constructed several of his own PCs.
Surviving are his spouse of 50 years, Lou; two sons and daughters-in-law, Jay Russell and Jennifer Snyder of Alexandria, VA and Richard Wayne and Karen Snyder of Merritt Island, FL; mother, Nedra K. Snyder of Laporte: granddaughters, Katelyn Michelle Snyder and Kelly Nicole Snyder: three brothers and sisters-in-law: Stansbury and Nancy Hill of Elysburg, PA, Orlen and Vera Hill of Parlin, NJ and William Snyder of Silver Creek, NY; sisters and brother-in-law: Geraldine and Charles Hart of Shamokin and Rebecca Snyder of Indiana; cousins, Marjorie and Jay McCall of Surprise, AZ, Coletta Katz of New York, NY and Eugene and Ann Kline of Watsontown and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his stepfather, William Evert Snyder in 1984.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday, April 10 at 11 a.m. at the P. Dean Homer Funeral Home, 206 Water St., Dushore, with the Rev. Robert W. Brown, pastor of the Laporte United Methodist Church, officiating. Interment will be in the Mountain Ash Cemetery, Laporte.
Friends may call at the funeral home on Saturday from 10 a.m. until the time of the service.
Graveside military services will be accorded by members of Laceyville American Legion Post #510, Black Walnut.
The family will provide flowers. Memorials may be directed to Moosehaven, 1701 Park Avenue, Orange Park, FL 32073.
Peter Pisaneschi, III
April 2, 2004
Peter Anthony Pisaneschi, III, 39, of Honesdale, PA, died suddenly on Friday, April 2, 2004, at home. His wife is the former Kathleen Ann Rudolf.
He was born in Montrose on Feb. 25, 1965, son of Peter, Jr. and Betty Pisaneschi of Lawton.
In addition to his wife and parents, he is survived by his children, Kyleen, age nine, and Timothy, age four; brothers and sisters, Sharon Nance of Roanoke, TX, Monica Pifcho, of Lawton, Renee Hovland, of Apopka, FL and Chad Pisaneschi of Bronx, N.Y.
He attended Elk Lake High School in Dimock. He worked as a carpenter, and he enjoyed fishing and hunting.
Calling hours were Tuesday, April 6 from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. from the Hessling Funeral Home, 428 Main St., Honesdale. Cremation will follow.
Lucille Muller
April 6, 2004
Lucille Ann Muller, age 70, of Dushore, PA, passed away on Tuesday, April 6, 2004 at the Memorial Hospital, Towanda, PA.
Lucille was born in Towanda, daughter of the late Gordon L. and Florence Emory Gavitt. She graduated from Towanda High School, a member of the Class of 1952. She also attended the Elmira Business College and worked as a clerk for the New Albany Tool Company. Lucille married Paul J. Muller of Dushore on August 11, 1956.
Lucille was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother. She enjoyed reading and was accomplished at embroidery and crewel, and also traveled extensively across the United States with Paul.
She was a member of St. Basil’s Catholic Church and a member of the Catholic Women’s’ Guild.
Surviving are her spouse, Paul, at home; a son and daughter-in-law, Benjamin G. and Stephanie Muller, Park City, UT; a daughter, Elizabeth Shaffer, Columbia Cross Roads; a sister and brother-in-law, Laura and William Bohensky, Jr., Dushore; grandchildren and spouses, Jeremey Shaffer and spouse, Rachelle, Melissa Shaffer O’Connell and spouse, Ken and August Rain Muller; several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by a son, Mark H. Muller, on Sept. 28, 1981.
A graveside service will be held from the P. Dean Homer Funeral Home, on Thursday, April 8, at 9 a.m., with the Rev. David R. Betts, her pastor, presiding. Interment will be in St. Basil’s Cemetery.
Friends may call at the funeral home from 8:30 a.m. until the time of the service.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, April 12 at 8 a.m. at St. Basil’s Church, Dushore, with the Rev. David R. Betts, her pastor, presiding.
Memorials are directed to St. Basil’s Church, PO Box 307, Dushore, PA 18614.
Margaret Barna
April 1, 2004
Margaret Barna, age 88, of Staten Island, NY, passed away on Thursday, April 1, 2004 at the Vanderbilt Nursing Home, Staten Island, NY.
She was born Oct. 29, 1915 in New York, NY, a daughter of the late Peter Zito. Her husband, Joseph Barna predeceased her on March 7, 1995. She worked most of her career as a seamstress. Margaret and Joe lived in Albany Township for several years.
Surviving are a son, Peter Barna of Matawan, NJ and a daughter, Catherine Barna of Laceyville; four grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by a brother, Joseph Zito of Linden Falls, NJ.
Graveside funeral services were held Monday, April 5 at St. Basil’s Cemetery, Dushore, with the Rev. David R. Betts, pastor, presiding. Graveside services were under the direction of the P. Dean Homer Funeral Home, 206 Water St., Dushore, PA.
Russell McHenry
March 30, 2004
Russell P. McHenry, Sr. age 77, of Dushore, PA, a well known and highly regarded local funeral director, passed away on Tuesday morning, March 30, 2004 at Manatee Memorial Hospital in Bradenton, Florida after a brief illness.
He was born on July 9, 1926 in Sayre, a son of the late Ralph and Dolletta Williams McHenry.
Russell was a veteran, having served in the United States Navy from 1944-1946.
Mr. McHenry received his Bachelor’s degree in Mortuary Sciences from Cincinnati School of Embalming.
On Oct. 31, 1953, he married the former Barbara Todd in West Virginia. His wife, Barbara preceded him in death on Nov. 28, 1993, after celebrating 40 years of marriage.
In November of 1959, Russell and his wife moved their family to Dushore, when they purchased the former Holcomb Funeral Home, now known as the Russell P. McHenry Funeral Home.
In the early 1960’s, he and his wife began the ambulance service for Sullivan County, with operations being dispatched out of their home until the Dushore Ambulance Service was organized and certified in the late 1960’s.
Russell was a very community oriented man, and served on numerous committees for local organizations. In addition, he served for some time as Deputy Sheriff of Sullivan County under Edward Beinlich; he also was a charter board member of the Endless Mountains Transportation Authority, known as EMTA.
He was elected Sullivan County Coroner, serving from Jan. 1, 1978, retiring Dec. 31, 1995. He served as Deputy Coroner under Dr. T.J. Saul for many years, prior to being elected.
In November of 1988, Russell purchased the former Kenneth D. Kerr Funeral Home in Wyalusing, now known as McHenry Funeral Home. In 1989, it was with great pride that his son, John R. McHenry, joined him in the business operations.
Mr. McHenry will be remembered for his dedication and devotion to the families he served in the Sullivan, Wyoming, Lycoming and Bradford County areas.
On June 7, 1996, Russ married Doris Loreman Bidlespacher at Redeemer United Church of Christ in Dushore. Russ and Doris celebrated seven years of marriage.
He had an extreme love and pride for his family, and his grandchildren will fondly remember their “Pop Pop.” He will be greatly missed by all those who loved him.
His memberships include: Redeemer United Church of Christ, of Dushore; an honorary member of the International Coroner’s & Medical Examiner’s Association; an honorary member of the Pennsylvania State Coroner’s Association; a 50 year member and Past Master of Evergreen Lodge No. 163 F.&A.M., of Monroeton; a 50 year member of Ancient & Accepted Scottish Right, Valley of Harrisburg; a Past Commander of Northern Commandery No. 16 Knights Templar, of Towanda; Union Royal Arch Chapter 161, of Towanda; Northern Council No. 24 of Royal and Select Master Masons, of Athens; a life member of Loyalsock Post No. 996 American Legion, of Dushore; Beirne-Webster Post No. 1564 V.F.W., of Towanda; 40/8 Voiture Locale No. 549; B.P.O.E. Elks No. 2191, of Towanda; Loyal Order of the Moose, of Bradenton, FL and the Towanda Gun Club.
He leaves surviving his wife, Doris, at home; his six children and their spouses, Sylvia and David Patrick, Harrisburg, Marilyn and Anthony Skicki, Wyomissing, Sharon and Bruce Orlowski, Mildred, John and Sheri McHenry Wyalusing, Russell P., Jr. and Lisa McHenry, Foleys Corners, Tracy McHenry, Harrisburg; stepchildren, Ronna Woodhams, South Glens Falls, NY, Scott and Kerry Bidlespacher, Gansevoort, NY; his grandchildren, Christopher and Kim Evangelisti, Champaign, IL, Edward, John and Andrew Skicki, Wyomissing, Robert J. Fulmer, Lancaster, Shannon, Ryan and Sheridan McHenry, Wyalusing, Matthew Nagle and Courtney McHenry, Mildred, Michael and Dietrik Ferster, Harrisburg, Nicholas and Katelyn Woodhams, South Glens Falls, NY, Zachery and Sarah Bidlespacher, Gansevoort, NY; and by two great-granddaughters, Madelyn and Olivia Evangelisti, Champaign, IL; a brother and sister-in-law, Charles and Mickey Simpson, Wormleysburg, Joyce and Harold Arnold, Harrisburg; a sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Ann and Robert Bonitz, Harrisburg, Robert and Pat Loreman, Lancaster, Bonnie Loreman, Williamsport, Richard and Shawn Loreman, Williamsport and by several nieces and nephews.
Funeral services will be held on Sunday, April 4, at 2 p.m. in St. Paul’s United Church of Christ in Overton, with the Rev. Robert W. Martin, his pastor, officiating, assisted by the Rev. Robert W. Brown.
A private committal service will follow in Wyalusing Cemetery. Graveside military honors will be conducted.
Russell’s family will receive family and friends on Saturday, April 3, 2004, at the Russell P. McHenry Funeral Home, 119 Carpenter Street, Dushore, from 3 until 9 p.m.
There will be a Masonic Funeral Service conducted by Evergreen Lodge Lodge No. 163 F.&A.M., and a Military Pass In Review by Loyalsock Post No. 996 American Legion of Dushore on Saturday evening at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that donations be made to a charity of one’s choice in Mr. McHenry’s memory.
Charles VerBryck
March 26, 2004
Charles Fisher VerBryck, age 95, well-known Sugar Run resident, passed away on Friday, March 26, 2004 at the Memorial Hospital, Towanda, PA
He was born Aug. 17, 1908 at home in Wilmot Township, a son of the late Ira L. and Harriet Sigler VerBryck. He graduated from the Wyalusing High School, Class of 1926. He married the former Pearl Morrow of Rummerfield, on Feb. 26, 1927 and she predeceased him on June 10, 1996 after 69 years of marriage. He was a dairy farmer for 57 years, and then continued beef farming until his death.
He was a member of the PA Dairy Association.
Charles loved his family, farming, animals and gardening. He and his wife had farmed his grandfather’s farm since their marriage.
Surviving are a daughter, Cleo Eberlin, Binghamton, NY; grandchildren, Richard Eberlin and Lisa Zionkowski, Sugar Run, Gail Heath and Raymond Davidson, Norfolk, VA; great-grandchildren, Jonah and Danielle Eberlin, Laceyville, Bryan Eberlin Laceyville, Heather Eberlin, Myrtle Beach, SC, Tina Heath, Durham, NC; great-great-grandchildren, Dakota Eberlin, Laceyville, Helena Heath, Durham, NC.
He was predeceased by his son, Charles Emerson VerBryck in 1957, a son-in-law, Thomas Eberlin in 2001, and a great-grandson, Michael Eberlin in 1986 and by three brothers and one sister.
Funeral services were held on March 31 at 11 a.m. at the P. Dean Homer Funeral Home, 1 Grovedale Lane, Wyalusing, with the Rev. Glenn R. Kennedy, his pastor, officiating. Interment was in the Quick’s Bend Cemetery.
Friends called at the P. Dean Homer Funeral Home from 7 to 9 p.m. on Tuesday, March 30.
The family provided their own flowers and ask that memorials be directed to the American Heart Assoc., Bradford County Chapter, 1704 Warren Avenue, Williamsport, PA 17701.
Charles Griffin
March 25, 2004
Charles E. Griffin, age 57, of Herrick Township, Wyalusing, PA, passed away unexpectedly at his home on Cole Road early Thursday morning, March 25, 2004.
He was born on Nov. 12, 1946 in New Jersey, a son of William and Mary Griffin.
Mr. Griffin is a veteran of the United States Marine Corps, having served during the Vietnam War.
On May 19, 1973, Charlie married Carmen Corsilli in Whitehouse, NJ. It was a loving and devoted marriage of over 30 years.
He and his wife ran Pine Ridge Farm in Herrick Township, having moved to this area several years ago from New Jersey.
Charlie will be remembered by all who knew him for his easy-going outlook on life and his “quick-with-a-joke” manner.
He leaves surviving his wife, Carmen and their two daughters, Jaeme, 24 and Bobbi, 22, as well as family outside this area.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, March 27 at 2 p.m. in the Camptown Community Church, Rt. 706 in Camptown, with the Rev. Helen Learn, pastor, officiating.
Sally Brown
March 9, 2004
Sally Arey Brown, age 52, of Oak Hill, Wyalusing, PA, passed away unexpectedly at her home on Tuesday, March 9, 2004.
She was born on Oct. 4, 1951 in Meshoppen, the daughter of James and Mimi Arey of Wyalusing. Sally leaves behind a brother, Jim and his wife, Joanne Arey of Harrisburg; her sister, Donna and brother-in-law, Brian Ace of Laceyville.
Sally had an especially great love for her family and is survived by her husband of 23 years, Jan R. Brown; two sons and daughter-in-law, Wayne, II and Nichole Felter, their children, Andy and Mallory Maloney and twin sons, Braden and Mitchell of Wyalusing. Among her greatest joys was the birth of her twin grandsons, now two years old. Her other son, Pvt. Jesse L. Brown, is currently serving in the United States Army at Fort Knox, KY. She will also be missed by her brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, numerous nephews, nieces, aunts and uncles.
It is well-known among those who knew her, she also had an enormous love of the outdoors and animals, especially her horses.
Sally was currently employed at Arrow United Industries in Wyalusing, where she worked for the last 27 years in numerous capacities. She was a member of the United Sheet Metal Workers Union, Local #44.
Funeral and committal services were held on Saturday, March 13 at 11 a.m. in the McHenry Funeral Home, 106 Church St., Wyalusing, with the Rev. Barry Ballard officiating.
Friends and family called on Friday evening, March 12 at the funeral home from 7 to 9 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Wilmot Fire Company, Wyalusing Public Library or to the local American Red Cross Chapter in Mrs. Brown’s memory.
Keith Roberts
March 16, 2004
Keith Elden Roberts, 63, of Paradise Road, Terry Township, PA, passed away peacefully, with his family at his side on Tuesday, March 16, 2004 at home.
He was born Dec. 29, 1940 at home in Terry Township, a son of the late Harold M. and Georgia Huffman Roberts. He graduated from the Wyalusing Valley Jr.-Sr. High School, Class of 1958. On March 11, 1972, he married the former Susan I. Johnson of Wyalusing. He was employed in the maintenance department of CraftMaster (formerly Masonite and International Papers) for the past 38 years.
He was a member of the Sons of American Legion Squadron #534 of Wyalusing, the Towanda Gun Club and the New Era United Methodist Church.
Keith loved his family, fishing, hunting, farming and his dog “Bo.” He and his wife had farmed his grandfather’s farm since their marriage.
Surviving are his spouse, Susan, at home; sons, Brian K. Roberts, Wyalusing, Michael W. Roberts and fiancée, Susan Ackley, Towanda, Eric Roberts, Texas; a step-son, Lowell Burt, Somerset; two brothers and sisters-in-law, James H and Cathy Roberts, Anchorage, AK, Lawrence and Debra Roberts, Wyalusing; three sisters and brothers-in-law, Florence and Edmund Campbell, Wyalusing, Virginia and John Carter, Wyalusing, Linda and James Randal, Buffalo, NY; his grandchildren: Josyln Sue Roberts, Mindy Rose Burt, Nicole Christine Burt and Jessica Heath.
He is also survived by his loving in-laws, the Johnson family, to whom he meant so much and numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by brothers, Harold Roberts, Jr. in 1990, Ralph V. Roberts in 1993 and an infant son in 1974.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday, March 20 at 11 a.m. at the P. Dean Homer Funeral Home, 1 Grovedale Lane, Wyalusing, with the Rev. Dennis W. Fox, his pastor, officiating. Interment will be in the New Era Cemetery.
Friends may call at the P. Dean Homer Funeral Home on Friday, March 19 from 2 to 4 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m.
The family will provide flowers and asks that memorials be directed to the American Cancer Society, Bradford County Chapter, 1948 Third St., Williamsport, PA 17701.
Robert Shaffer, Sr.
March 15, 2004
Robert N. “Bigger” Shaffer, 61, of Wyalusing, PA, passed away unexpectedly at Towanda Memorial Hospital on Monday, March 15, 2004 as a result of knee surgery complications.
He was born in Johnson City, NY on July 16, 1942, a son of Norma (Traver) Shaffer and the late Robert C. Shaffer.
Robert was a graduate of Wyalusing High School, Class of 1962, and served with the United States Army in the Vietnam War.
On April 10, 1970, he was united in marriage to his high school sweetheart, Betty Jane Camp.
For the past 28 years, he drove concrete truck for Wysox Sand and Gravel. In his spare time, he met and kept close to his heart, many friends.
He enjoyed playing cards, riding four wheeler, lawnmower races and going to elementary and high school sports, with his favorite always being wrestling. He especially enjoyed time spent with his grandchildren.
He was a member of the American Legion Post #534 of Wyalusing and attended the Hope Baptist Church.
He has gone to join his father, Robert C. Shaffer; a brother, Arnold K. Shaffer; mother-in-law, Ethel Camp; father-in-law, Harry E. Camp and son-in-law, Roger Moore.
He leaves behind his loving wife of 33 years, Betty J. (Camp) Shaffer; his mother, Norma Shaffer of Wyalusing; one son, Robert N. Shaffer, Jr. of Meshoppen; daughters and their husbands, Tammy and Mike Darling of Montrose, Terry Moore and fiancé, Leo Hutchinson of Wyalusing, Lori and Daniel Barr of New Albany; grandchildren, whom loved their “Pop Pop,” Brian Michael and Kelly Ann Darling, Rachel Lee Moore, Snyder Edward Robert and Sheyann Elizabeth Jean Barr; sisters, Beverly Jayne of Texas, Helen Bastian of Elmira, NY, Ruth and James Philbrook of Vinalhaven, ME, Marilyn (Toot) and special brother-in-law, Douglas Walton of Silvara; sister-in-law, Brenda Stafford of Rochester, NY; in-laws whom he loved as his own family, Harry, Jr. and Maxine Camp, Glenn and Donna Camp, Roy and Connie Camp, Jerry and Judy Camp, Rosemary and Wally Stewart, Diana and special friend, Gary Bacorn and many special aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. He will be remembered and greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.
Funeral services will be held on Friday, March 19 at 11 a.m., at the Hope Baptist Church, High Duke Road, Herrick Township, with the Pastor Wade Clauser officiating.
Interment will follow in Camptown Cemetery. Full military honors will be accorded by American Legion Post #534.
Friends and family are invited to call on Thursday evening, March 18 at the Hope Baptist Church from 5 to 8 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorials be directed to the Hope Baptist Church in Mr. Shaffer’s memory.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the McHenry Funeral Home, 106 Church St., Wyalusing.
Iva E. Hitchcock
March 13, 2004
Iva E. Hitchcock, 85, of Endicott, NY, passed away on Saturday March 13, 2004 at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Syracuse, NY. She was born in Herrickville to the late Clarence S. and Vera (Brotzman) Hitchcock.
Her seven children and their spouses, Mary Ann and James Webster, Sayre, George and Aline Snell, Port Aransas, TX, Gwendolyn and Allan Warner, Elk Lake, Wilber and Kathy Hitchcock, Port Crane, NY, Wilma and Myron Severcool, East Rush, Gloria and Edward Mosier, Towanda, Thomas and Julie Hitchcock, Owego, NY; daughter-in-law, Pamela J. Hitchcock, Montrose; sister and brother-in-law, Belva and Wayne Very, Rush; 25 grandchildren; 36 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; many nieces and nephews survive Iva.
Her husband, LaVerne W. Hitchcock in 1990, and son, Kenneth Hitchcock in 2002, predeceased Mrs. Hitchcock.
She was a loving wife, mother and grandmother who gave of herself selflessly, asking for nothing in return. She was a member of Vestal Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses, serving as a regular full-time Pioneer Minister.
A memorial service was held at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, March 17 at the Vestal Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 749 Vestal Pkwy, Vestal. Presiding over the service was Eric Jackson. Interment was in the Herrickville Cemetery, Bradford County, PA.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Mrs. Hitchcock’s name can be made to the charity of one’s choice. Arrangements were made through the Daniel K. Regan Funeral Home in Montrose.
Michael Rayanic
March 16, 2004
Michael Rayanic, 93, Meshoppen, PA, passed away on Tuesday, March 16, 2004 at the Carpenter Care Center in Tunkhannock.
He was born in Jessup on Nov. 19, 1910, a son of the late Max and Olga Maciejowsky Rayanic.
He was married to the former Mildred Doshna, who predeceased him.
Mr. Rayanic was a dairy farmer and had previously worked for Allied Bendix Co. in South Montrose.
A veteran of the United States Army, he was a former member of St. Andrews Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church. He was an avid reader and loved working in his garden.
Survivors include a son, Steve Rayanic, Meshoppen, and a grandson. Besides his parents and his wife, he was preceded in death by three sisters, Mary, Pauline and Anna and five brothers, John, Nicholas, Marshall, Stephen and Walter.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the Harding-Litwin Funeral Home, 123 W. Tioga St., Tunkhannock, and will be held at the convenience of the family.
There will be no calling hours and interment will be held in the St. Andrews Ukranian Greek Catholic Cemetery.
Steven Heath, Sr.
March 4, 2004
Steven Edward Heath Sr., age 58, of Blackwood, NJ, passed away on Thursday, March 4, 2004 at the Stratford Nursing Center, Stratford, NJ.
Steven was born in Wyalusing on April 25, 1945, a son of the late Donald and Helen Kinsley Heath. He graduated from Wyalusing Valley High School, a member of the Class of 1963. He graduated in 1967 from Mansfield State University with a degree in English, and in 1972 earned his L.L.B. from Rutgers University. While in Law School he worked for U.S. Pipe Corp., and following law school he went to work for Inductotherm Corp., where he was Corporate Council. He also worked for Union Valley Corp., where he was Corporate Council, and he had a private law practice as well.
He had many interests and pursuits: he was mayor and councilman of Willingboro, NJ, a member of Rotary International and many other church and civic organizations. He loved playing golf and also enjoyed debate as a hobby
Surviving are sons and daughters-in-law, Steven E. And Elizabeth Heath, Woodbridge, VA, Michael K. and Crystal Heath, Philadelphia, Matthew D. and Jampa Heath, Oakland, CA; two brothers, Joseph F. Heath, Orlando, FL, Lin C. Heath, Milton; two sisters, Tana Porter, Orlando, FL and Rosemary Grebeck, Wilkes-Barre. He also leaves three grandchildren, three nieces, six nephews and a host of friends.
A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Wednesday, March 10, at 10 a.m. at St. Bartholomew’s Catholic Church, 751 Kaighns Ave., Camden, NJ with the Rev. Gerard Marable, his pastor, presiding.
Interment was in Homet Family Cemetery, Homets Ferry, PA at approximately 5 p.m. on Wednesday.
Friends called on Tuesday evening from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Murray-Paradee Funeral Home, Route 70, Cherry Hill, NJ and on Wednesday morning at St. Bartholomew’s from 9 a.m. until the time of the Mass.
The family will provide the flowers and memorials may be directed to St. Bartholomew’s Catholic Church, 751 Kaighns Ave., Camden, NJ 08103.
Funeral arrangements were under the direction of the P. Dean Homer Funeral Home, 1 Grovedale Lane, Wyalusing, PA 18853.
Paul Gorman
March 5, 2004
Paul Jacob Gorman, 58, well-known resident of Bridge St., Monroeton, PA, passed away on Friday, March 5, 2004 at his home.
Born July 2, 1945 in Towanda, he was a son of the late Thomas B. Gorman and Joanna Hunsinger Gorman. Paul attended St. Agnes School in Towanda. He was employed by GTE Sylvania and E.I. DuPont in Towanda. Paul also formerly served as a police officer in Monroe Borough for several years and was a well-known masonry contractor in the area for over 30 years. He was a noted weather forecaster and record keeper in the area and also collected information for the National Weather Service for many years. In earlier years, Paul was an avid body builder and weight lifter. He loved his grandchildren dearly and enjoyed the annual construction of an ice skating rink on his property for use by his family and friends. Paul also loved the outdoors, deer hunting, wintertime, snow and especially Christmas.
He was a member of SS Peter and Paul Catholic Church of Towanda, Monroeton Rod and Gun Club and was a social member of the Towanda American Legion.
Surviving are his children, Thomas Paul Gorman of Meshoppen, Susan Lisa Bailey and her husband, Johnpaul P. Bailey of Towanda, Dr. Jill Colleen Gorman of Winter Park, FL; five grandchildren, Jesse Bailey, Loribeth Bailey, Mercedes Bailey, William Brague and Emily Gorman; his sister, Mary Jo Stopper of South Williamsport; a niece, Jacqueline; two nephews, Shawn and Curt; his former wife, Judy Barnes Gorman of Towanda.
He was preceded in death by his stepfather, William Bordinger.
The family received friends Monday evening from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Maryott-Bowen Funeral Home, 217 York Ave., Towanda. A vigil prayer service was held at the conclusion of calling hours.
A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Tuesday, March 9 at 10 a.m. at SS Peter and Paul Catholic Church, with Rev. Ronald Hughes, pastor, as celebrant. Interment was in SS Peter and Paul Cemetery, North Towanda Township.
The family requests that memorial contributions be made to the St. Agnes School, 102 Third St., Towanda, PA 18848 in his memory.
Mildred Farley
March 4, 2004
Mildred Louise Sick Farley, age 90, of Dushore, PA, passed away on Thursday, March 4, 2004 at the Dar-Way Nursing Home in Estella.
Mildred was born May 22, 1913 in Dushore, daughter of the late John C. and Louise Ambs Sick. She attended the Cherry Mills School and married James Farley of Cherry Township on April 16, 1934 at St. Basil’s Church. James predeceased her on April 8, 1950.
Mildred was a homemaker and after her husband’s death, worked for many years at the Endicott-Johnson Mfg. Co. in Mildred and Sull-Craft Mfg. Co. of Dushore. After retirement, Mildred was an Avon lady and also groomed dogs. She was a member of the Cherry Mills Homemakers, where she made many crafts and quilts.
Mildred was a very active member of St. Basil’s Church, Dushore, and a member of the former Altar and Rosary Society.
Surviving are two daughters, Ann Dehler, Dushore and Mary Lou Murray, Dushore; six grandchildren, Mitchell Dehler, Pasadena, CA, John Dehler, New Albany, Stacey Fiester Ceely, Los Angeles, CA, James Farley Fiester, Mildred, Kristie Murray, Dushore, Jennifer Kiess, Dushore; five great-grandchildren, Tyler Murray, Alexis Kiess, Daniel Dehler, Sonia Dehler, Nicholas Dehler and numerous nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by two sisters, Marie Farrell and Margaret Gainer and two brothers, Francis Sick and Joseph Sick and a special friend, Elwood Arey.
Funeral services were held on Monday, March 8, at 10 a.m. from the P. Dean Homer Funeral Home, 206 Water St., Dushore, and was followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 a.m. at St. Basil’s Church, Dushore, with the Rev. David R. Betts, her pastor, presiding. Interment was in St. Francis of Assisi Cemetery, Cummiskey.
Friends called on Sunday, March 7, at the P. Dean Homer Funeral Home, 206 Water St., Dushore, from 2 to 4 p.m. and on Monday from 9 a.m. until the time of the service.
The Catholic Women’s Guild recited the Rosary on Sunday at 3 p.m. at the funeral home.
The family provided their own flowers and memorials may be directed to St. Basil’s Church, PO Box 307, Dushore, PA 18614 or to the Dushore Fire and Ambulance Assn., PO Box 1, Dushore, PA 18614.
Donald Manns
March 8, 2004
Donald Albert Manns, age 81, of Mehoopany, PA, passed away on Monday, March 8, 2004 at Smith Health Care, Ltd. in Mountain Top, following a lingering illness.
He was born on June 6, 1922 in Firdale, Manitoba, Canada, a son of the late George and Alice Mary Bennett Manns.
Donald was honorably discharged as a Gunner’s First Mate for the United States Navy, having served during World War II.
In October of 1947, he married the former Nellie B. Naylor.
Prior to retirement, he was a supervisor in the manufacturing industry.
Mr. Manns had been a resident of this area since July 1, 1994, moving from Brooklyn, CT.
He enjoyed time spent fishing, being in the outdoors, gardening and time spent with his family.
Surviving are his wife, Nellie, at home; two sons and daughter-in-law, Donald and Marcia Manns of Brooklyn, CT and David Manns of Dushore; two brothers, Wilfred and Samuel “Roy” Manns; a sister, Olive House; two grandchildren, Kimberly Stuyniski of Brooklyn, CT, Daniel J. Manns of South Kingston, RI and a great-grandson, Justin Larson.
A memorial service was held on Wednesday, March 10 at 1 p.m. in the Russell P. McHenry Funeral Home, 119 Carpenter St., Dushore, with the Rev. Robert W. Brown, pastor of the United Methodist Church in Dushore, officiating.
Interment will be held at a later date and at the convenience of the family.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, Northeast Region, 63 North Franklin St., Wilkes-Barre, PA 18701 or to the United Cerebral Palsy Association, 1660 L Street, N.W., Suite 700, Washington, DC 20036 in Donald Manns’s memory.
Harry Magann
March 5, 2004
Harry Eastwood Magann, age 66, of the Kahill Mountain, Overton Township, PA, passed away on Friday, March 5, 2004 at the Dar-Way Nursing Home in Estella.
Harry was born in Darby on Dec. 13, 1937, a son of the late Harry E. and Frances Elizabeth McCully Magann. He graduated from the Sharon Hill High School, a member of the Class of 1955. He married the former E. Virginia Taggart of Sharon Hill on Oct. 6, 1962. They moved to Bradford County and he worked at Rheem Textile, now Hoffman-New Yorker, for 14 years, until his illness forced his retirement.
Harry was a member of St. Basil’s Catholic Church and was a life member of the Sharon Hill Fire Company and the National Rifle Association.
Surviving are his spouse, E. Virginia Magann, Forksville; a son and daughter-in-law, Scot E. and Phenny Magann, Wysox; eight daughters and sons-in-law: Joyce L. Magann, Royersford, Christine E. and Thomas Keyes, Denver, CO, twins, Bonnie J. and Russell Meredith, Newark, DE, Heather L. and Dale Russell, Fayetteville, NC, Frances G. and Shawn Maier, Scottsville, NY, Rita S. Magann, Santiago, Chile, Bridget E. Magann, Boulder, CO, Abigail R. Magann, Forksville; a brother and sister-in-law, John W. and Judith Magann, Downingtown; a sister and brother-in-law, Frances E. and William J. Meyers, Somers Point, NJ; five grandchildren, Marcus Comeau, Amanda Comeau, Olivia Magann, Matthew Meredith and Ronan Maier; numerous nieces and nephews.
Funeral services were held from the P. Dean Homer Funeral Home, 206 Water St., Dushore, on Tuesday, March 9th at 10 a.m. and followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 a.m. at St. Basil’s Church, Dushore, with the Rev. David R. Betts, his pastor, presiding. Interment was in St. Basil’s Cemetery.
Friends called at the P. Dean Homer Funeral Home on Monday, March 8 from 2 to 4 p.m. and from 7 to 9 p.m.
Grace Wickwire
Feb. 23, 2004
Grace Lines Wickwire, 86, widow of Harry B. Wickwire of Mercur Hill, Wysox RR2, PA, passed away Monday evening, Feb. 23, 2004 at The Manor in West Burlington Township.
Born Oct. 25, 1917 in LeRaysville, she was a daughter of the late Earl and Lena Lewis Lines. In early years, Grace attended school in LeRaysville.
Grace assisted her husband, Harry in the operation of their farm on Mercur Hill for many years and also was employed by Esther Pipher at the Wysox Motel for many years. Her life encompassed her home and family and she enjoyed working among her flowers.
Surviving are two grandsons, Ronald L. Wickwire and his wife, Twyla Wickwire of LeRaysville, Garry D. Wickwire of Mercur Hill, Wysox RR2; seven great-grandchildren: David Wickwire of Washington, DC, Travis Wickwire of Rapid City, SD, Theron Wickwire of Wysox, Matthew Wickwire of Rome, Montana Wickwire of Spring Lake, Selena and Julia Wickwire of LeRaysville; five great-great-grandchildren; a sister, Helen Hammerly of Rome; a brother and sister-in-law, Duane Hoover Lines and Verna Lines of LeRaysville and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
She was preceded in death by her husband of 66 years, Harry B. Wickwire, on Nov. 10, 2001; a son, Norman D. Wickwire, on July 23, 2001, an infant son, Edward Wickwire; her daughter-in-law, Joyce Badger Wickwire, on Feb. 10, 1986; four sisters, Midge Monroe, Maggie McMann, Betty Cragle and Charlotte Stalford; four brothers, Ralph, Robert, Joseph and Leo Lines.
The funeral service was held Thursday, Feb. 26, at 11 a.m. at the Maryott-Bowen Funeral Home, 217 York Ave., Towanda, with the Rev. Ronald Troup, pastor of the Monroeton United Methodist Church, officiating. Interment followed in the Wysox Cemetery.
The family received friends on Thursday from 10 to 11 a.m. at the funeral home.
The family suggests that memorial contributions may be directed to The Manor, Resident Activities Fund, RR3, Box 322, Troy, PA 16947 in Mrs. Wickwire's memory.
Martin Knolles
February 29, 2004
Martin Thomas “Mark” Knolles, age 56, of Ulster RR, Sheshequin Township, PA, formerly from Towanda, passed away on Sunday evening, Feb. 29, 2004 a Memorial Hospital in Towanda.
Born Aug. 22, 1947 in Wilmot Township, he was the son of Donald and Dorothy Saxe Knolles.
Mark was a graduate of Athens High School. He was employed by the Ingersoll Rand in Athens for over 32 years, until declining health no longer permitted him to continue.
He was a member of the Bradford County Four Wheelers Association, life member of the Last Minute Racing Team, co-owner of Team Knolles ATV Racing Team and a Mopar enthusiast.
Mark enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and took a special interest in his grandsons’ wrestling activities.
Surviving are his children, Chris Knolles of Athens, Michelle Renee Knolles Gordon and her husband, Stephen Gordon of Towanda, David Thomas Knolles, Sr. of Sheshequin; three grandchildren, Stephen Gordon, Marissa Gordon and David Thomas Knolles, Jr., all of Towanda; his parents, Donald and Dorothy Knolles of Sheshequin; brothers and sisters-in-law, Daniel and Kathleen Knolles of Athens, Clyde and Monica Knolles of Ulster; sisters and brothers-in-law, Kay and Bill Green of Hornbrook, Ruth Ann and Jim Jones of Athens; several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins; special friends, Patricia Sue Williams Knolles of Hornbrook and Bessie Johnson of Towanda.
The funeral services will be held on Friday, March 5 at 11 a.m. at the Maryott-Bowen Funeral Home, 217 York Ave., Towanda, with the Rev. Ronald Hughes, officiating.
The family will receive friends on Thursday evening from 7 to 9 p.m. and Friday morning from 10 to 11 a.m. at the funeral home.
Interment will be in the Sheshequin Cemetery, Sheshequin Township.
The family suggests that memorial contributions be made to Memorial Hospital, One Hospital Drive, Towanda, PA 18848 in Mark Knolles’s memory.
Vera M. Greenwood
February 27, 2004
Vera M. Greenwood, 92, of Dimock, PA, died Friday, Feb. 27, 2004 at home.
Born Aug. 1, 1911 in Brooklyn, she was the daughter of the late Fred and Maude Ainey Kinney. Mrs. Greenwood married Guy L. Greenwood, who predeceased her in death in 1972.
She and her husband owned and operated a dairy farm in Dimock. She was also employed by the former Bendix Corporation in South Montrose.
Survivors include two daughters and a son-in-law, Joyce Beardsley, Montrose, and Sandra and Thomas Sipe, Dimock; a daughter-in-law, Rosemarie Greenwood, Montrose; nine grandchildren, Gary, Debbie, Jim, Kim, Jamie, Jeff, Todd, Brian and Bradley; 11 great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; a sister-in-law, Ruby Greenwood, Clark Mills, NY, and nieces and nephews.
She was predeceased by her daughters, Evelyn Greenwood, Betty Arbosheski and a son, James F. Greenwood.
Services were held at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, March 2 at the Bartron-Myer Funeral Home, Inc., a Selected Independent Funeral Home, 74 Church Street, Montrose. The family received friends from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. on Monday. The family suggests, that if desired, memorial contributions may be made to Montrose Minute Men, PO Box 461, Montrose, PA 18801-0461 or to the American Diabetes Association, 5020 Ritter Road, Suite 106, Mechanicsburg, PA 17055.
