Emma Gaylord
Feb. 24, 2004
Emma Mae Gaylord, age 78, of 173 East Tioga St., Apt. A-3, Tunkhannock, PA, passed away at Tyler Memorial Hospital in Tunkhannock on Tuesday, Feb. 24, 2004.
Born in Nichols, NY on Feb. 16, 1926, she was the daughter of the late Harry and Theresa Munn Fuhrey. She was married to William M. Gaylord, who preceded her in death on April 14, 1991.
Mrs. Gaylord attended Coudersport and Falls Overfield High School. She worked as a waitress at the Shadowbrook Dairy Bar and volunteered at Tyler Memorial Hospital.
She was a member of the Tunkhannock Women’s Club.
Survivors include a son, William Gaylord, Tunkhannock; a brother, William Fuhrey, Springville; three grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by a daughter, Bonnie Bassano on Feb. 16, 2004; a sister, Joan Swisher; three brothers, Robert, Rodney and Harry, Jr.
Funeral services will be held at the Tunkhannock Presbyterian Church, 51 Putnam St., Tunkhannock, on Saturday, Feb. 28 at 11 a.m., with the Rev. John P. Sheperd, Jr., pastor, officiating. Interment will be in Sunnyside Cemetery.
Friends may call at the Harding-Litwin Funeral Home, Tunkhannock from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 27.
Memorial donations may be made to the Tyler Memorial Hospital Foundation, Route 6W, Tunkhannock or to the Wyoming County Cancer Society, PO Box 629, Tunkhannock, PA 18657.
Henry G. Bonhamer
Feb. 18, 2004
Henry G. Bonhamer, 87, formerly of Lee Park Towers in Hanover Township, passed away on Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2004 at the East Mountain Manor in Plains Township.
Born in Astoria, Queens, NY, on Dec. 7, 1916, he was a son of the late Henry and Cora (Weiler) Bonhamer. He spent his childhood in New York City and attended Theodore Roosevelt High School.
He married the former Elizabeth (Peggy) Lane, of Wilkes-Barre, on July 14, 1941, at St. Matthews Evangelical Lutheran Church, in New York City. After residing in the city for several years, the couple moved to the Wyoming Valley in 1952 where they lived for most of the past five decades.
A proud and decorated veteran of World War II, Mr. Bonhamer saw extensive combat duty as a machine-gunner with the famed Third Armored (Spearhead) Division during the European Theater of Operations in 1944. He was awarded the Purple Heart and Bronze Star Medals, along with the Combat Infantry Badge and three bronze Campaign Service Stars. He also received the American Defense Service Medal, the Distinguished Unit Emblem, the Good Conduct Medal and the World War II American Victory Medal.
Following the war, he completed an apprenticeship and worked for most of his life as a tool and die maker in New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania. While semi-retired, he also worked as a security guard at the RCA Plant in Mountain Top and at other facilities in the Wyoming Valley.
Mr. Bonhamer was a member of the Albright United Methodist Church in Wilkes-Barre and the Kingston Veterans of Foreign Wars.
A lifelong fan of the New York Yankees, he worked for a time during his youth as a vendor at Yankee Stadium during the Babe Ruth/Lou Gehrig era. He also had a great interest in high school sports, particularly track-and-field, wrestling and football, and he was a fixture at Meyers High School (Wilkes-Barre) and Wyalusing athletic events during the latter part of his life. He was especially proud of the accomplishments of his grandson, David, who helped the Ram track and field team to a pair of NTL championships in the early 1990s.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Peggy on Sept. 29, 2002; also by a twin brother, Howard and brothers, Herman, Fred and Arthur, and sisters Hazel and Margaret.
He is survived by a son, Lee and “daughter” Linda of Wyalusing; a grandson, David and great-grandchildren, Alyssa and Michael, all of Wyalusing; also by several nieces and nephews.
Funeral services were held on Sunday, Feb. 22, at the Kniffen-O’Malley Funeral Home in Wilkes-Barre, with the Reverend Patrice H. Goodwin of Albright United Methodist Church officiating. Private interment was at the Chapel Lawn Memorial Park in Dallas.
Memorial donations may be made to the family to be used for the Tree of Life in Henry’s memory at the Veterans Administration Medical Center in Wilkes-Barre.
Alice Fuhrey
Feb. 19, 2004
Alice Fuhrey, age 80, 335 Harwood Ave., Clarks Summit, passed away at CMC, VNA Hospice Unit, Scranton, on Thursday, Feb. 19, 2004, following a brief illness.
Born in West Auburn, Susquehanna County, on Jan. 29, 1924, she was the daughter of the late Levi and Leah Elizabeth Sink LaFrance.
Her husband, Robert J. Fuhrey passed away on April 30, 1994.
Alice was a hairdresser in Tunkhannock before moving to Clarks Summit in 1956. She was a member of the Clarks Summit United Methodist Church, a 1942 graduate of Laceyville High School and the Elmira Beauty School. She also worked at Vandervort Mills in Laceyville.
Alice was a wonderful, kind-hearted mother, grandma, sister and aunt who loved her family very much. She enjoyed going shopping and she loved her two cats dearly.
Survivors include a daughter, Rhonda Leah McClurg and husband, John of Tunkhannock; grandson, Liam McClurg of Tunkhannock; sister, Vergie Green of Tunkhannock; brother, Clyde LaFrance of Laceyville; special friend, Ralph Tewksbury; several nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by two sisters, Genevieve Ace and Pauline Tewksbury.
Funeral services were held at the Harding-Litwin Funeral Home, 123 W. Tioga St., Tunkhannock, on Sunday, Feb. 22 at 1 p.m. Rev. Gabriel Liew, pastor of the Clarks Summit United Methodist Church, officiated. Family and friends called on Saturday from 4 to 7 p .m.
Interment was in Sunnyside Cemetery, Tunkhannock.
Memorial donations may be made to the VNA Hospice, 301 Delaware Ave., Olyphant, PA 18447; Lackawanna County Humane Society, 967 Griffin Pond Rd., Clarks Summit, PA 18411 or the Clarks Summit United Methodist Church, Morgan Hwy., Clarks Summit, PA 18411.
Burleigh M. Kelley
Feb. 20, 2004
Burleigh M. Kelley, 68, of Retta, PA, died Friday, Feb. 20, 2004. Born June 20, 1935 in Montrose, he was the son of the late Roy Kelley and Reta Jones Flynn. His wife, Marlene R. Kelley, survives him.
Throughout his life, he drove oil truck for Suden & Hulahane, worked in the maintenance department at Procter & Gamble for 25 years and also worked for Sherwood Auto.
Burleigh provided transportation for members of the community when they needed assistance. He was a member of Black Walnut American Legion Post #510 and also the Retta United Methodist Church. He mowed the Retta church and Retta cemetery lawns. He was a baseball coach for little league squidgets and umpired baseball. He also loved fishing. He served in the Navy during the Korean War.
Survivors include his wife, Marlene Kelley, Montrose; daughters and sons-in-law, Debbie and Dale Severcool, Montrose, Jenice Marie and Dennis Tewksbury, Fayetteville, NC; sons, Paul M. Kelley, Rushville, Aric E. Kelley, Retta; six grandchildren, Jeremy, Sheena, Addie, Amanda, Bryant and Brandon; one great-grandchild, Camden; several half-brothers and sisters, nieces and nephews, cousins, aunts and uncles.
Services will be held at 1 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 26 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 Wednesday. The family suggests that, if desired, memorial contributions may be made to Retta United Methodist Church, RR5, Box 36, Montrose, PA 18801.
Robert W. Hunsinger
Feb. 22, 2004
Robert W. Hunsinger, 84, of Rush, PA, died Sunday, Feb. 22, 2004 at home. Born June 1, 1919 in Benton, he was the son of the late George and Mary Cole Hunsinger. His wife, Betty E. Hunsinger, of 64 years, survives him.
He was a former member of the Rush Volunteer Fire Company and the Ayres-Stone VFW Post #5642, Montrose. He was an operator for PENNDOT for 19 years and a custodian for the Elk Lake School for over 15 years.
Survivors include his wife, Betty E. Hunsinger, Rush; daughters and son-in-law, Connie L. and Carl Kopatz, Rushville, Judy Y. Krupinski, Montrose; sons and daughters-in-law, Richard R. and Arlene Hunsinger, West Chester, Stephen M. and Ruth Hunsinger, Montrose; eight grandchildren, Carla, Carolyn, Craig, Richard, Jr., James, Karyn, Hannah, Lydia; six great-grandchildren; a sister, Belma Herrala, South Montrose; a brother, Albert Hunsinger, Bloomsburg; a half-sister, Joyce Nelson; a half-brother, Dale Pasker; nieces and nephews.
Services were held at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 25 at the Bartron-Myer Funeral Home, Inc., a Selected Independent Funeral Home, 74 Church Street, Montrose. The family received friends from 7 to 9 p.m. on Tuesday and one hour prior to the service on Wednesday. The family suggests that, if desired, memorial contributions may be made to American Cancer Society, 1101 Hill Street, Jessup, PA 18434, or to the American Lung Association, 738 South Main Street, Scranton, PA 18504.
Richard Higley
Feb. 23, 2004
Richard W. Higley, age 82, of Forksville, PA, passed away at his home in the early morning of Monday, Feb. 23, 2004.
He was born on Jan. 24, 1922 in Estella, the son of the late Clayton John and Maude Kunzman Higley.
He was a veteran of the United States Army, having served during World War II in the European Theatre.
On June 6, 1942, Richard married the former Alfreda Carpenter in Canton. It was a loving and devoted marriage of 61 years.
Mr. Higley was engaged in dairy farming for 20 years. Prior to retirement in 1981, he was a self-employed lumberman at L&H Lumber.
He was a former member of the Estella United Methodist Church and a member of the Forksville United Methodist Church; was a 50-year member of the Loyal Order of the Moose in Canton; a member of the Sullivan County Fair Association; a 29-year member of American Legion Post No. 996 of Dushore and was a member of the Sullivan County Agricultural Society.
He enjoyed fishing, hunting big game, being in the outdoors, traveling and especially time spent with his family.
He leaves surviving, his wife, Alfreda, at home; his children and their spouses, Sandra Bennett and Ronald McCarty, Forksville, Richard R. and Charlotte Higley, Forksville, Marvin and Rose Higley of Forksville, Cheryl and Keith Rohrer of Enola; two brothers, Laurence Higley of Forksville, Dawin Higley of Shunk; nine grandchildren, Roy, Terry and Greg Bennett, Lanette Russell, Dawn Higley, Jeff Higley, Nichole Higley and Rob and Ryan Rohrer; 12 great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by brothers, Evan and Harold Higley.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, Feb. 28 at 1 p.m. in the Forksville United Methodist Church, with the Rev. Theodore H. Stiltner, pastor, officiating.
A military presentation will be held at the church on Saturday.
Interment will be in Forksville Cemetery at the convenience of the family.
Friends and family are invited to call on Saturday at 12 p.m. until the time of the memorial service.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the American Cancer Society, Bradford-Sullivan County Unit, 1948 East Third St., Williamsport, PA 17701 in Mr. Higley’s memory.
Arrangements were entrusted to the Russell P. McHenry Funeral Home, 119 Carpenter St., Dushore.
Barbara Hendrickson
Feb. 18, 2004
Barbara Hendrickson, 65, of Friendsville, PA died Wednesday, February 18, 2004 at Wilson Memorial Regional Medical Center. Born December 16, 1938 in Endicott, NY, she was the daughter of the late Lena Crofut. Her husband, Howard I. Hendrickson of 47 years, survives her.
Besides her husband, survivors include daughters and sons-in-law, Debra and David Newhart, Friendsville, Pamela Labbe and Roger Newhart, Rushville, Cindy and Michael Flynn, Sr., Montrose; son and daughter-in-law, Michael D., Sr. and Penny Hendrickson, Nichols, NY; 14 grandchildren; 11 great- grandchildren; sisters and brother-in-law, Billie and Vern Bates, North Pole, AL, Helen Grow, Salinas, CA, nieces and nephews.
She was predeceased by her son, Jerry, brother, James Crane, sister, Margaret Hill and step-father, Perly Crofut.
Services were held at 4 p.m. Sunday, February 22, 2004 at the Bartron-Myer Funeral Home, Inc., a Selected Independent Funeral Home, 74 Church Street, Montrose, PA. The family received friends from 2 p.m. until 4 p.m. on Sunday.
The family provided all flowers and suggests, that if desired, memorial contributions may be made to American Heart Association, 59 Court Street, Binghamton, NY 13903.
Mary Ellen Griffin
Feb. 23, 2004
Mary Ellen Griffin, 65, of Little Meadows, PA, passed away on Monday, Feb. 23, 2004 at her home, surrounded by her family. She was born in St. Joseph, to the late James Edward and Julia Helen (Golden) Flaherty. Her loving husband of 43 years, Donald J. Griffin, survives.
Mary Ellen was a member of St. Francis Xavier Church, Friendsville, and the Altar and Rosary Society. She was a loving wife, mother and grandmother.
Four children and their spouses, Patti and Joe Kucinsky, Vestal, NY, Gerard and Kirsty Griffin, Little Meadows, Roseanne and Jeff Williams, Howard, Dennis and Maureen Griffin, Avon, CT; eight grandchildren, Megan Adams, Elissa and Kailey Kucinsky, Julia, Kaitlyn and Thomas Williams, Cecilia and Fiona Griffin; a brother, Thomas Flaherty; a sister, Margaret Flaherty; sisters and brothers-in-law, Helena Flaherty, St. Joseph, William Griffin, Forest Lake, Katherine and George Hardy, Binghamton, NY, Robert P. Griffin, Friendsville, Doris Kessler, Albuquerque, NM, Bernie and Mary Martha Griffin, Binghamton, NY, Barbara and Harry Winnie, Palm Bay, FL, Mike and Mary Ellen Griffin, Friendsville; many nieces, nephews and cousins survive Mary Ellen.
Two brothers, James and Lawrence Flaherty predeceased Mary Ellen.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m., Friday, Feb. 27, at the St. Francis Church in Friendsville, with Father W. Jeffrey Paulish, officiating.
A prayer service before Mass will be at the funeral home at 9:45 a.m.
Interment will be in the St. Francis Xavier Cemetery.
Friends may call on the family from 7 to 9 p.m., Thursday at the Daniel K. Regan Funeral Home, Montrose, PA.
The family will handle floral arrangements; donations in Mary Ellen’s name can be made to the St. Francis Xavier Church, P.O. Box 50, Friendsville, PA 18818 or to the charity of one’s choice.
Douglas Ayers
Feb. 20, 2004
Douglas J. Ayers, age 84, of Dushore, PA, went home to be with the Lord on Friday evening, Feb. 20, 2004 at the Veterans Medical Center in Wilkes-Barre, following a period of declining health.
He was born on Jan. 15, 1920 in Monroeton, a son of the late Rudolph and Nina Kennedy Johnson.
He was a veteran of the U.S. Army, having served during World War II and was then granted an honorable discharge.
Mr. Ayers spent most of his lifetime in the Dushore area.
He had attended the United Methodist Church in Dushore and was a member of the Dushore American Legion Post No. 996 and the VFW Post of New Albany.
Prior to his illness, he was self-engaged in property management. He would purchase and repair properties to be sold. He also had a big love for the stock market and enjoyed investing his money.
He is survived by his two children, Edward A. Ayers, Dushore and Carol A. Benjamin and her husband, Jud Benjamin of New Albany; two very special grandchildren, Jana L. Miller and her husband, Ralph L. Miller of Monroeton, Ross A. Ayers and his girlfriend, Catrina A. Pedro of Wyalusing; two other grandchildren, Kay Wettlaufer of Dushore and Darla Treaster of Dushore; four very special great-grandchildren, Desirae, Skylar and Tanner Miller of Monroeton and Kaylee Ayers of Wyalusing; two other great-grandchildren, Elle Wettlaufer of Dushore and Tamara Treaster of Dushore and a great-grandson; a special cousin, Mr. Charles Pelton and his wife, Geraldine of Rochester, NY and a very good friend, James Pruyne.
Funeral services were held on Wednesday, Feb. 25 at 11 a.m. in the Russell P. McHenry Funeral Home, 119 Carpenter St., Dushore, with the Rev. Robert W. Brown, pastor, officiating.
Interment followed in Bradford County Memorial Park, Luthers Mills.
Full graveside military honors were accorded by American Legion Post No. 996 of Dushore.
Friends and family called on Tuesday, Feb. 24 at the funeral home from 7 to 9 p.m. and on Wednesday from 10 a.m. until the time of the service.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Dushore American Legion Post No. 996 in Mr. Ayers’ memory.
Alverta Rohe
Feb. 22, 2004
Alverta “Bert” Rohe, age 91, of Dushore, passed away in the early morning of Sunday, Feb. 22, 2004 at DarWay Nursing Home in Estella, PA.
She was born on July 8, 1912 in Wilkes-Barre, a daughter of Ella Daily. She was the foster daughter of George and Bertha Crouse.
She was raised in Wilkes-Barre until her family relocated to the Dushore area. She later moved back to Wilkes-Barre to work for a manufacturing company. In 1945, she relocated back to Dushore.
On Jan. 6, 1945 in Tunkhannock, she became the bride of Lawrence Rohe, Sr. Bert and Lawrence had celebrated 53 years of marriage. Lawrence preceded her in death in December of 1998.
Mrs. Rohe was a member of St. Paul’s United Church of Christ in Overton.
She enjoyed collecting dolls, sewing and making doll clothes and cooking.
She had spent some time as a cleaning lady, was a caregiver and would also, at times, take people into her home.
Surviving are her children, Bernadine Burke of Binghamton, NY, Thomas and Marilyn Waluk of Wyalusing, Mary Rohe and Dick Taffe of Dushore, Lawrence, Jr. and Jo Elaine Rohe of Dushore, Catherine Pedro of Red Lion; a foster daughter and husband, Mary and James Richlin; brothers and sister-in-law, Melvin and Betty Rohe and Donald Rohe; 10 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.
In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by a brother, Franklin Burgess and sisters, Marie Rowan and Ella Litzelman.
A funeral service was held on Wednesday, Feb. 25 at 3:30 p.m. at St. Paul’s United Church of Christ in Overton, with the Rev. Robert W. Martin, her pastor, officiating.
Interment will be at the convenience of the family in the Reformed Cemetery.
Friends and family called on Wednesday afternoon, Feb. 25 at St. Paul’s United Church of Christ in Overton from 2:30 until the time of the service.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Paul’s United Church of Christ in Overton or the DarWay Nursing Home Patient Activity Fund in Mrs. Rohe’s memory.
Carl Shoemaker, Sr.
Feb. 14, 2004
Mr. Carl S. Shoemaker, Sr., age 63, of 319 Montrose Terrace Park, Montrose, PA, passed away at the University of Pennsylvania Hospital in Philadelphia, PA on Monday morning, Feb. 16, 2004 from injuries he sustained from a structure fire in Lake Carey that occurred on Saturday morning, Feb. 14, 2004.
Carl was born on June 11, 1940, the son of the late Leo Shoemaker, who passed away on Dec. 5, 1976 and the late Hazel L. Emmons Shoemaker, who passed away on Oct. 17, 2003.
He was employed for many years by the Brunges Pallet Mill in Nicholson.
Carl is survived by his wife of 24 years, the former Donna L. Harvey, Montrose; three daughters and son-in-law, Patricia and Eric Glemser of Springville, Kandi Warfle of Falls, Paula Shoemaker of Tunkhannock; three sons, Carl Shoemaker, Jr., Laceyville, Charles Shoemaker, Laceyville and Ronald Shoemaker, Jr., Elizabethtown; four brothers and their spouses, William and Rose Shoemaker of Mehoopany, Glen and Lorraine Shoemaker of Laceyville, Donald and Claudia Shoemaker of Laceyville and Ronald, Sr. and Laurie Shoemaker of Tunkhannock; two granddaughters, a grandson and several nieces and nephews. Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by two sisters, Elizabeth (Skeeter) Shoemaker and Betty Wolf.
Funeral services will be held on Friday, Feb. 20 at 11 a.m. from the Sheldon Funeral Home, Main St., Meshoppen, with Rev. Gary Myers of the Meshoppen Biblical Church, officiating. Interment will be in the Overfield Cemetery in Meshoppen. Family and friends may call at the funeral home on Thursday evening, Feb. 19 from 6 to 9 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, those wishing, may make memorial donations to the University of Pennsylvania Hospital, 3400 Spruce St., Philadelphia, PA 19104.
Sally W. Schmoll
Feb. 17, 2004
On Feb. 17, 2004, Sally Welles Schmoll, wife of Allen F. Schmoll, Jr., Wyalusing, PA (Terrytown) went to be with her Lord. She was 86 years old and had been in declining health for sometime, due to Alzheimer’s disease.
She was born Bertha C. Schulze in Terrytown on Dec. 23, 1917, the daughter of Christian and Genevieve (Horton) Schulze. Given up by her parents, Sally was caringly raised by her aunt and uncle, Mr. and Mrs. Harry O. Schulze of New Era.
She attended Wyalusing schools and put herself through Mansfield State Teacher’s College, graduating with a degree in education. In college, she was an accomplished cellist, playing in a performing string quartet. She carried her musical interests through life, with active participation in Wyalusing Chapter No. 524 Order of the Eastern Star and was a member of Meshoppen Chapter No. 70.
Following graduation, she began a career as an elementary school teacher, beginning in a one-room schoolhouse at Moxie in 1938 and ending at the Towanda J. Andrew Morrow School in 1977. Along the way, she taught fifth grade at Laceyville and second grade at Wysox and Luthers Mills.
She was dedicated to her students and always remembered them at Christmas. When silver dollars went out of circulation, she gave each one of her students a silver dollar that year, a gift that some of those students still cherish.
In 1940, she married Charles F. Welles, II at the Schulze farm in New Era. She was devoted to Charles, a long-time Schulze family friend, whose generous and kind spirit had helped her as a young woman coming of age during the depression years.
Her marriage to Charles produced two sons: Nelson A. Welles, II (Jean Stone) of Sheshequin and Charles F. Welles, III (Lyn) of Terrytown (Norway Ridge).
From her challenging childhood, she garnered a strong work and saving ethic that she transferred to her family. Her most precious human quality, though, was her gentle and somewhat insecure inner core that likely came from being shuttled around in early childhood. She clung to and gave enormous love and tenderness to her family, a characteristic that is her greatest legacy to her survivors.
When her husband died in 1964, she continued teaching and bore the financial responsibility of maintaining the family tree farm and upkeep on her husband’s beloved Old Log House in Terrytown, all with little help from her sons, who were then away at school and military service.
In 1966, she married Allen F. Schmoll, Jr. of Durell. Her marriage to Allen brought her the love and support that she greatly needed to shoulder the responsibilities she had endured alone for two years. Together, they continued to keep the Old Log House in great condition to this day.
When Alzheimer’s struck, Allen demonstrated an unusual level of devotion to her by choosing to become an around-the-clock caregiver to her at home. When the demands became too much for one person, he engaged Sandi English and Sally Tomlinson to help him with home care, never once considering removing her from her beloved Old Log House.
In addition to her sons and their better halves, she leaves four grandsons: Charles (Elisa) of Tunkhannock; Matthias of Corpus Christi, TX, Nelson, III (Chantel Johnson) of Wysox, Fisher (Kelly) of Elmira, NY and a granddaughter, Angela Bechtel (John) of Butte, MT. She has one great-granddaughter, Marina Welles of Wysox, a brother, William (Herm) Schulze of Wyalusing, a sister-in-law, Lillian (Bill) VanNest of Florida, several nieces and a nephew.
She was predeceased by a brother, Fred, of Harrisburg.
A memorial service will be held on Sunday, Feb. 22, 2004, at 1 p.m. in the New Era United Methodist Church, with Robert Hockenberry, officiating.
Interment will be at the convenience of the family in Wyalusing Cemetery.
Friends and family are invited to call on Saturday, Feb. 21, 2004, at McHenry Funeral Home, 106 Church Street, Wyalusing, from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m.
Those wishing to honor her memory may wish to contribute to the New Era Methodist Church or a charity of one’s choice.
Leona J. Knapman
Feb. 14, 2004
Leona Knapman, 88, of Montrose, PA died Saturday, Feb. 14, 2004 at home. Born May 21, 1915 in Jessup Twp., she was the daughter of the late L. Earl and Mabel M. Pettit Jones. Her husband, George R. Knapman predeceased her.
She was a member of the Fairdale Grange #1157, Fairdale, Ernestine Rebekah Lodge #548, Rush, the tax collector for Jessup Twp., a Judge Of Elections for Jessup Twp. and an avid bowler.
Survivors include her sisters, Rena Graham, South Montrose, Ruth Carter, Auburn Four Corners, a brother and sister-in-law, Paul and Doris Jones, Fairdale; sisters-in-law, Sylvia Jones, South Montrose, Elsie Jones, Fairdale; nieces and nephews and a good friend, William Anderson.
She was predeceased by her siblings, Reta Flynn, Earl, Amos, Wreford and Searle Jones.
Services were held at 5 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 18 at the Bartron-Myer Funeral Home, Inc., a Selected Independent Funeral Home, 74 Church Street, Montrose. The family received friends from 3 p.m. until time of service on Wednesday. The family suggests, that if desired, memorial contributions may be made to Fairdale United Methodist Church, RR5, Box 36, Montrose, PA 18801.
Michael Kiefer
Feb. 16, 2004
Michael C. Kiefer, 43, of Sayre, PA, passed away unexpectedly at work on Monday, Feb. 16, 2004.
Born Oct. 16,1960 in Elmira, NY, the son of Reese and Joan Mackiewicz Kiefer, he was a graduate of Notre Dame High School. Michael delivered for Schwan’s Food. He was a member of Alcoholics Anonymous for 22 years. An avid sports fan, his favorite team was the New York Giants. Mike was most known for his coffee.
His father, Reese Kiefer, predeceased him in 1985.
Survivors include his wife of 22 years and best friend, Jody, at home; his daughter and son-in-law, Shannon and Douglas Richer of Syracuse, NY; his son, Michael Kiefer of Sayre; his mother, Joan Kiefer of Windham Center; his mother-in-law and father-in-law, Rita and Walter Fisk, Sr. of Athens; his sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Kathy and Walter Fisk, Jr. of Wyalusing; a sister, Janet Kiefer of California; a brother, Steven Kiefer of Williamsport and nephews, Josh and Matt Fisk of Wyalusing.
A memorial service will be held on Thursday, Feb. 19 at 1 p.m. at the Athens Wesleyan Church, with Rev. David Larson, officiating.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Jay E. Lowery Funeral Home, Inc., 225 South Main St., Athens.
Tracy Fenton
Feb. 12, 2004
Tracy G. Fenton, age 65, of Sugar Run, PA, passed away on Thursday, Feb. 12, 2004 at his home.
Born Oct. 3, 1938 in Wilmot Township, Sugar Run, he was a son of the late Rufus Fay and Ruth Neuber Fenton.
Tracy graduated from the Camptown High School and served in the United States Marine Corps.
On July 29, 1967, he was united in marriage to the former Kathryn Kisner. It was a loving and devoted marriage of 36 years.
He was a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Wilmot.
His other memberships include the Penn York Marine Detachment and the Wyalusing American Legion Post No. 534.
Prior to his retirement in 2001, he was employed as a group leader for Arrow United Manufacturing in Wyalusing, giving 20 years of service.
Tracy enjoyed time spent hunting and working around the house.
He leaves surviving his wife, Kathryn, at home; a daughter and son-in-law, Tracey Lynn and Michael Ferguson, Wyalusing; sisters and brothers, Dolly, Donald, Edith, Harold, Arthur, Lyle, Joan and Lula Belle; two grandsons, Dillan and Nicholas Ferguson of Wyalusing and his many nieces and nephews.
Funeral services were held on Monday, Feb. 16 at 12 noon in the McHenry Funeral Home, 106 Church St., Wyalusing, with the Rev. Wade Clauser, pastor of the Hope Baptist Church in Herrickville, officiating.
Interment followed in the Colley Cemetery. Full military honors were accorded by the Penn York Marine Corps League.
Friends and family called on Monday morning at the funeral home from 10 a.m. until the time of the funeral service.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Marine Corps League, c/o Roy Shrimp, RR1, Box 262, Towanda, PA 18848 in Mr. Fenton’s memory.
Helen Cott
Feb. 14, 2004
Helen V. Cott, age 90, of Forksville RR1, PA, passed away in the early morning of Saturday, Feb. 14, 2004 at Dar-Way Nursing Home in Estella.
She was born on Nov. 18, 1913, in Shrewsbury Township, a daughter of the late Harry and Maude Secules Montague.
Helen was a lifetime resident of Sullivan County.
On Nov. 21, 1934, she was united in marriage with Lynwood Cott. Her husband, Lynwood preceded her in death on Oct. 23, 1981.
She was a member of the Elkland Friends Meeting Church and was a member of the Forksville, Hillsgrove and Shunk Fire Companies.
She enjoyed her time spent sewing, baking, tending her flower garden, fishing and the outdoors. She was also supportive and helped her husband with the farming.
She is survived by two daughters and sons-in-laws: Louise and James Rinker, of Forksville, Dorothy and Malyn Norton, of Shunk; a sister-in-law, Glenna Montague, Strawbridge; grandchildren: Ellen Lazur, of Selinsgrove, Jack Dymond, of Dushore, Tony Rinker, of Spring City, Cindy Norton, of Dushore, Mike Norton, of Forksville, Lori Newman, of Shunk, Kelly Norton, of Bellingham, WA, Peggy Savage, of New Albany; great-grandchildren: Jason Purdy, Natlie Dymond, Katie Dymond, A.J. Rinker, Ava Rinker, Kimberly and Josh Norton, Jamie and Kally McBride, Renee and Nicole Arment and Zachery Norton.
Funeral services were held on Tuesday, Feb. 17, at 12 noon in the Russell P. McHenry Funeral Home, 119 Carpenter Street, Dushore, with the Rev. Robert Brown, pastor, officiating.
Interment followed in the Elkland Friends Cemetery, Elkland.
Friends and family called Tuesday morning, Feb. 17 at McHenry Funeral Home in Dushore from 10 a.m. until the time of funeral service.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to any local fire company in Mrs. Cott’s memory.
Ronald G. Brown
Feb. 16, 2004
Mr. Ronald George (R.G.) Brown, age 59, of RR2, Box 2052, Laceyville, PA, passed away at his home on Indian Hill, Tuscarora Township, Bradford County, PA on Monday morning, Feb. 16, 2004.
He was born on April 13, 1944, in Wilkes-Barre, the son of the late George Edward Brown, who passed away on Dec. 21, 1993 and Marian Elizabeth Eddy Brown of Laceyville.
R.G. owned and operated R.G. Brown Refuse Removal in Laceyville for the last 36 years. He began his business in 1967 with one truck, and built it to what it is today, servicing many areas throughout Northeast Pennsylvania. In his younger years, he also worked for Bucky Powell’s Garage in Laceyville and also for the Laceyville Agway. He was also employed, during the winter months, by the Laceyville Borough, doing winter maintenance.
When he was younger, he attended the Braintrim Baptist Church in Laceyville and was also a past member of the Laceyville Good Will Fire Company Auxiliary Police and the Wyalusing Fire Company Auxiliary Police. He was a social member of Rought-Hall Post #510 American Legion in Black Walnut.
Besides his mother, he is survived by three daughters and a son-in-law, Wendy Joy and Wally Dunlap of Mehoopany, Rebecca Jean Youells of Meshoppen and Ronda Ann Ashley of Lawrenceville; two sons and a daughter-in-law, David Ronald and Jennifer Brown of Laceyville and Dale Christopher Brown of Collins, NY; a sister, Janet E. Brown of Meshoppen; a brother, Brian A. Brown of Laceyville; 11 grandchildren and their spouses, Darin and Jennifer Dunlap of Virginia Beach, VA, Garria and Ron Toth of Heart Lake, Justin and Rose Kinne of Mehoopany, Georgia Kinne, Mehoopany, Joshua Battles, Enid, OK, Stephany Ward of Lawrenceville, Spirit Ashley, Lawrenceville, Tyler Brown, David Brown and Dustin Brown, all of Laceyville and Jordan Perez of North Carolina; two great-grandchildren, Keyara Kinne and Kenya Kinne of Mehoopany and many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins.
Funeral services will be held on Thursday, Feb. 19 at 11 a.m. from the Sheldon Funeral Home, Main St., Laceyville, with the Rev. Thomas Davis of the Braintrim Baptist Church, officiating. Interment will be in the North Flat Cemetery in Laceyville. Family and friends called at the funeral home on Wednesday, Feb. 18 from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m.
The Brown family will furnish their own flowers, but those wishing, may make memorial donations to the Good Will Fire Company, PO Box 207, Laceyville, PA 18623 or to the Laceyville Ambulance Association, PO Box 274, Laceyville, PA 18623.
Edward Reed, Jr.
Dec. 16, 2003
Masonic graveside services will be conducted by Wyalusing Lodge #618 F&AM on Saturday. June 26th at 11 a.m. at the Wyalusing Cemetery for Edward Reed, Jr. Rev. John Dabback will officiate at the services.
Edward Reed Jr., formerly of Sugar Run, PA passed away Tuesday, Dec. 16, 2003 in Ocala, FL at the age of 83.
Born in Mehoopany, Dec 25, 1919, he was one of six children. In 1958, Ed moved with his family to Horseheads, NY.
Ed was an avid carpenter, outdoorsman and golfer. He spent his career as a building materials salesman, winning many salesmanship awards.
He was a veteran of WWII, serving three years in the Army Signal Corps.
Ed was a member of the Rotary Club and the Elks. He just recently received his 50-year membership pin from the Masons.
Ed is survived by his childhood sweetheart and wife of 57 years, Edith; one brother, James of Melbourne, FL, three sisters, Gertrude Whipple of Wyalusing, Ruth Eberlin of Melbourne, FL and Doris (Bill) Madill of Monroeton; his children, Edward M. (Patty) of Tipp City, OH, Scott of Horseheads, NY and Cindy Chilton (Michael) of Phoenix, AZ; seven grandchildren and one great-granddaughter.
Memorial services were held Dec. 29 at 2:30 p.m. at the Roberts Funeral Home, Ocala, FL.
Contributions in his name can be made to Hospice of Marion County, 3231 SW 34th Ave., Ocala, FL 34474 or Countryside Presbyterian Church, 7708 SW Highway 200, Ocala, FL 34476.
Local arrangements are under the direction of McHenry Funeral Home, 106 Church St., Wyalusing.
George Houser
June 22, 2004
Mr. George E. Houser, age 83, of RR3, Box 158-A, Meshoppen, PA, passed away early Tuesday morning, June 22, 2004 at his home in Auburn Township, Susquehanna County, PA.
He was born in Fredericksburg, TX on May 14, 1921, the son of Helen Russell Houser.
Mr. Houser served his country during World War II, as a member of the U.S. Navy, serving in the Pacific Theater. After serving in the Navy, he worked as an electrician until ill health forced an early retirement.
He was a member of the American Legion and the Veterans of Foreign Wars.
There are no known family members, his only survivors are his friends and caregivers, Rev. Timothy and Char Barnett and their family of West Auburn.
Memorial services will be held on Sunday, June 27 at 11 a.m. from the Auburn Baptist Church in West Auburn, with Rev. Timothy Barnett of the church, officiating.
In lieu of flowers, those wishing, may make memorial donations to the Auburn Baptist Youth Center, c/o Mr. Reed Brotzman, RR1, Box 1409, Laceyville, PA 18623.
Earl Fry
June 18, 2004
Earl T. Fry, 73, of 713 Chippewa Road, Muncy, PA, died on Friday, June 18, 2004 at the Muncy Valley Hospital. He and his wife, the former Marjorie Bieber, celebrated their 52nd wedding anniversary on April 17. Born Nov. 18, 1930 in Muncy Township, he was a son of Narber P. and Beatrice Robb Fry.
Earl, a lifetime dairy farmer, also hauled milk for area farmers. He was a member of the Pennsdale United Methodist Church, the Pennsylvania Farmers Association and the Ticklish Rock Hunting Club. Earl enjoyed hunting and gardening. He especially loved spending time with his grandchildren.
In addition to his wife, Marjorie, Earl is survived by four sons, Roderick (Ann) Fry of Cogan Station, Thomas (Debbie) Fry of Muncy, Woodrow (Ruth) Fry of Hughesville and Theodore (Angie) Fry, Muncy; five daughters, Audrey (Jack) Schupp of Benton, Lorrie (Jim) Schools of Wyalusing, Virginia Bitler of Hughesville, Doris (Wayne) Wagner of Muncy and Melissa (Jeff) Thomas of Montoursville; a brother, Clifford (Faye) Fry of Muncy; four sisters, Hazel Hill of Hughesville, Beatrice (LaRue) Bay, Stella (Brad) Teter and Beverly (Evon) Gardner, all of Muncy and 21 grandchildren, Lora Fry, Amanda and Kristen Fry, Travis and Brandon Schupp, Colton, Savannah, Jordan and Mitchell Schools, Philip and Hannah Bitler, Jacob, Joshua and J. Zachary Fry, Tyler Wagner, Jerrett, Jamison and Jase Thomas, Joshua and Adam Gochnauer and Amber Fry.
Earl is predeceased by three brothers, Hailey, Rolland and Kenneth Fry and four sisters, Isabelle Winters, Ruth Whitmoyer, Helen Drick and Ocie Gardner.
Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, June 22 at McCarty-Thomas Funeral Home, 557 E. Water St., Hughesville, with Rev. William Gibson, his pastor, officiating. Interment was in Twin Hills Memorial Park. Friends called from 7 to 9 p.m. on Monday, June 21 at the funeral home. The family provided their own flowers and suggests memorial contributions be made to the Pennsdale United Methodist Church, 658 Village Rd., Pennsdale, PA 17756.
Robert Elliott, Sr.
June 17, 2004
Robert “Jack” Jackson Elliott, Sr., age 68, of Cassia, FL, died on Thursday, June 17, 2004 at the James Haley Veterans’ Hospital in Tampa, FL.
Born in Philadelphia on May 1, 1936, he was the son of the late Robert Fuller Elliott and Helen Stevens Elliott Reinhart.
After graduating from Wyalusing High School in 1955, he entered the U.S. Navy, serving from 1955 to 1965. After the service, he and his family moved from Philadelphia to Jenningsville in 1969, where he owned and operated his own tractor-trailer for many years. In 1985, he and his family moved to Cassia, FL. He worked with his longtime friend, Richard Wilbur in Sanford, FL until his retirement in 1999.
He belonged to the Antique Truck Historical Society and had just returned from their annual meeting and truck show in California, which he had been very happy to attend. He was a huge fan of NASCAR racing and enjoyed fishing with his friends and family. He will be greatly missed by all of his family and friends, especially on race day.
He is survived by his wife of 22 years, the former Joan Gassner; daughters and sons-in-law, RondaLin and David Mooers of Tunkhannock, Jacqueline and Robert Yesuvida of Tunkhannock, Sharon Askew of Louisville, KY, Courtney Gassner of Tavares, FL, Heather Gassner, Eustis, FL; sons and daughters-in-law, Robert Jackson, Jr. and Tonya Elliott of Rome, Russell and Mary Jo Elliott of Springville, Thomas and Mary Elliott of Athens, Edward Elliott of Seattle, WA, Sean and Danielle Gassner of Tavares, FL; 26 grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; six nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his sister, Naomi Jayne Davis; his son, Joseph Robert; daughter, Dawn Elliott and a granddaughter, Angels Treneice Calloway.
A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, June 30 at 11 a.m. at the Sheldon-Kukuchka Funeral Home, Inc., 73 West Tioga St., Tunkhannock, with the Rev. Charles Bishop, pastor of the Elk Lake Community Church. Interment will be in the North Flat Cemetery, Laceyville. Friends may call at the funeral home from 10 a.m. until the time of the service.
Edward Arey
June 17, 2004
Edward D. Arey, age 64, New Albany, PA, passed away on Thursday, June 17, 2004 at Memorial Hospital in Towanda.
He was born on Aug. 13, 1939 in Sayre, a son of the late Fred T. and Rachel Manahan Arey.
Edward was raised in the Wyalusing area and has lived with his sister, Anna and Paul Meas for the last 30 years in New Albany.
He enjoyed jigsaw puzzles, latch hook, watching TV and especially time spent with his family.
He has been a resident at Skilled Nursing Unit for the past 11 years.
Edward was a special brother to the following brothers and sisters: Alice Armitage of Wyalusing, Louise Ross of Meshoppen, James and Marian Arey of Wyalusing, Paul and Dorcus Arey of Tupper Lake, NY, Anna and Paul Meas, New Albany, Kenneth and Barbara Arey, Wyalusing; a brother-in-law, George Matlack of Broomall and by many nieces, nephews and cousins.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Evelyn Matlack; three brothers-in-law, Max Whitney, James Armitage, Clymer Ross and a niece, Sally Brown.
Funeral and committal services were held on Sunday, June 20 at 1 p.m. in the McHenry Funeral Home, 106 Church St., Wyalusing.
Friends and family called on Sunday at the funeral home from 12 p.m. until the time of the service.
Interment will be at the convenience of the family.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Skilled Nursing Unit, One Hospital Drive, Towanda, PA 18848 in memory of Edward D. Arey.
Richard Leroy Shadduck
June 9, 2004
Richard Leroy Shadduck, 62, of Henderson, NV died Wednesday, June 9, 2004. Born in Sayre, he was the son of the late Frank and Leata (Arnold) Shadduck. His wife, Ellie survives him.
He served in the U.S. Air Force 1960-1964. He worked as a heavy equipment operator out of Binghamton, NY, Salina, UT and Henderson, NV. He enjoyed his many fishing and hunting trips around the world.
His daughter, Kimberly Ann Shadduck and friend, Preston Steigher of Salina, UT; stepchildren, Tammy and Ross Morrison, Lance and Gaylene Dobish, Todd Dobish and friend, Diane Garlick; three brothers and sisters-in-law, David and Marleta Shadduck, Francis and Chris Shadduck and Charles Shadduck; four step-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, uncle and cousins survive him.
A memorial service will be held at 4 p.m., Saturday, June 19, at the Rushville Presbyterian Church, with Rev. William Nelson of the Beaver Meadows United Methodist Church, officiating. The family will receive friends one hour before the service at the church. In lieu of flowers, donations in Richard’s name, can be made to Rushville Church, c/o Marie Watkins or Rushville Cemetery Association, c/o Glenn Watkins, each at RR1, Box 1365, Rushville, PA 18828.
Arrangements were made through Daniel K. Regan Funeral Home.
Dorothy Harvey
June 8, 2004
Dorothy M. Harvey, 81, of Tunkhannock, PA died on Tuesday, June 8, 2004 at her home. She was born in Meshoppen to the late Daniel Harvey and Nellie Harvey Severcool.
Dorothy worked in the Endicott-Johnson Shoe Factory in Tunkhannock and loved her dog, Shep.
Nieces, nephews and cousins survive Dorothy. Her long-time companion, William Kitchnefsky, predeceased her.
Dorothy’s family received friends at the Daniel K. Regan Funeral Home in Montrose on Friday, June 11 from 10 to 11 a.m. Interment was in the Lynn Cemetery, Springville Twp.
Harry Epler
June 10, 2004
Harry Epler, age 87, of New Albany, PA, passed away on Thursday morning, June 10, 2004 at his home, following a lingering illness.
He was born on Jan. 19, 1917 in Eldridgeville, Sullivan County, a son of the late Arthur and Rebecca Keeney Epler.
He was a graduate of New Albany High School, Class of 1936.
On April 3, 1938, he married the former Mary Bleiler. She preceded him in death in 1991.
Harry started the Epler Family Farm in New Albany in 1944, and was actively engaged in farming until December 2003, when he was forced to retire due to health reasons.
In his early years, he was employed by the coal mines of Forksville and Hillsgrove. Prior to operating his own dairy farm, he was employed by Kennedy Valve, in Elmira, NY.
He leaves surviving his two sons, Larry Epler and Connie Kobbe, New Albany, Robert and Judy Epler of New Albany; grandchildren, Theresa Berry and Drew Conklin, Debbie and Errek McComb, Thomas and Amy Allen, Mike and Nancy Epler, Randy Epler and Karen Neimyer, Scott and Becky Epler, Penny Epler-Carl and Brian Carl; great-grandchildren, Amber and Robert Cook, Tara Mosier, Timothy Mosier and Christine Donnelly, Courtney McComb, Paris Allen, Jason Allen, Mitchell Epler, Chelsea Epler, Kaitlyn Epler, Christy Epler, Michaela Carl; step-grandson, Suede Reed; step-granddaughters, Babette Densmore, Annette Fowler and Suezette O’Neal and by great-grandchildren, Alex Mosier and Alexis Fryer; a brother, Kenneth Epler of Millport, NY and a brother-in-law, Harold (Tom) Bleiler of Bothell, WA.
In addition, he was preceded in death by his father, Arthur Epler (1971); mother, Rebecca Epler (1986); wife, Mary E. Epler (1991); sister, Marie Epler Leo (1978); brother-in-law, George Leo (1987); daughter, Nina Joyce Epler Allen (1970) and brother-in-law, Victor “Barney” Heverly (1998).
Funeral services were held on Saturday, June 12 at 1 p.m. in Russell P. McHenry Funeral Home, 119 Carpenter St., Dushore, with the Rev. Rendele Albers, pastor, officiating.
Interment was in Bradford County Memorial Park, Luthers Mills.
Pallbearers were Roy Robinson, Floyd Hatch, Mike Epler, Randy Epler, Scott Epler, Tom Allen, Errik McComb and Drew Conklin. Honorary pallbearers were Martin Shaffer, Norman Shores, Bob Pond, Sam Welles, Al Curtin, Jim Manella, Bill Thompson and Irvin Sayman.
Friends and family called on Friday evening, June 11 at McHenry Funeral Home in Dushore from 6 to 9 p.m. and on Saturday from 11 a.m. until the time of the service.
The family provided flowers. They suggest that donations be made to the New Albany Fire Company, c/o Linda Abrams, New Albany, PA 18833 or to the American Cancer Society, Bradford-Sullivan County Unit, 1948 East Third St., Williamsport, PA 17701.
