Eli Anekite
SAEGERTOWN - Eli Anekite, 85, of 18907 Grange Center Road, Saegertown, died Sunday, April 29, 2001, at Meadville Medical Center.
Arrangements are incomplete and under the direction of White-Cool Funeral Home, 1405 Main St., Conneautville.
Vivien Alice Davis
Former Linesville resident Vivien Alice Davis, 90, died Sunday, April 29, 2001, at Wesbury United Methodist Retirement Community in Meadville.
Born Dec. 20, 1910, in Westford, she was a daughter of Harry J. and Lula Martin Hays. She married Roland E. Davis on Aug. 6, 1940, in Linesville; he preceded her in death in 1984.
A member of Linesville Presbyterian Church, she taught Sunday school and was active with the Missionary Society of the church.
After beginning her teaching career at Martin School in Westford, a one-room schoolhouse, she taught at Linesville Junior High School and Alice Schafer Elementary School in Linesville, where she taught fifth grade. She retired in 1975 after 43 years of teaching. She was a member of the Pennsylvania State Education Association and Retired Teachers of Pennsylvania.
Survivors include two sons, Dr. Duane E. Davis and his wife, Marie, of Danville, and Robert R. Davis and his wife, Marsha, of Linesville; five grandchildren, Dr. Bradley D. Davis, Wendy M. McCullough, Mark E. Davis, Tyler B. Davis, and Wesley C. Davis; two stepgrandchildren, Chad Godina and Cory Godina, and one nephew.
In addition to her husband, one sister, Wilda Litwiler, preceded her in death.
Calling hours will be Tuesday from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. at the Harold W. Coleman Jr. Funeral Home, 6028 U.S. Highway 6, Linesville.
The funeral will be Wednesday at 11 a.m. at the funeral home with the Rev. Patrick S. Pettit of Linesville Presbyterian Church officiating.
Burial will be in Linesville Cemetery.
The family suggests memorials be made to Linesville Presbyterian Church, P.O. Box 235, Linesville, Pa. 16424.
Charles David Schellberg
CONNEAUT LAKE - Conneaut Lake resident Charles David Schellberg, 74, died Saturday, April 28, 2001, at his home.
Born May 28, 1926, in Peoria, Ill., he was a son of Harold Charles and Ruth Ann Rapalee Schellberg. On July 3, 1949, he married Betty Jane Johnson at Wheatland Avenue Methodist Church in Logansport, Ind.
A member of First Presbyterian Church of Meadville, serving as deacon, trustee and elder.
After graduating from Logansport High School, he attended Purdue University and received his bachelor of science degree from the University of Cincinnati.
He was a combat infantryman in the U.S. Army, serving in Germany during World War II.
Before moving to Meadville in 1966 as a sales engineer for Stedman Machine Co. of Aurora, Ind., he held engineering department positions in Indianapolis with J.D. Adams, Hetherington and Berner, and Merz Engineering, and in Aurora with Stedman Machine Co.
Beginning in 1975, he was president of Schellberg Machinery Inc., manufacturers' representatives working principally for McLanahan Corporation of Hollidaysburg. He retired in 1995.
A past president of Meadville Kiwanis Club, a member of Masonic Lodge No. 408 of Meadville, the Scottish Rite Valley of Indianapolis, and the Conneaut Lake Radio-Controlled Model Airplane Club, he was a former member of Iroquois Boating and Fishing Club. He served on the Boy Scout Committee both in Aurora and Meadville.
He enjoyed outdoor activities, especially hunting and fishing. When his children were young, the family camped from coast to coast. He also enjoyed acting with the Buttonwood Bay, Fla., Theater-in-the-Park.
In addition to his wife of 51 years, survivors include a son, David B. Schellberg and his wife, Rochelle, of Duncansville; one daughter, Donna Kay Cupp and her husband, James, of Indiana, Pa.; and five grandchildren, Vicki and Ann Schellberg and Jackie, Jenny and David Cupp.
Calling hours are from 10 to 11 a.m. Tuesday, followed by a memorial service at 11 a.m. in the chapel of First Presbyterian Church, 890 Liberty St., Meadville, with the Rev. David Hosick officiating.
Interment will be in Oak Ridge Cemetery in Farmington, Ill., at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials be made to Hospice of Crawford County Inc., 448 Pine St., Meadville, Pa. 16335.
Arrangements are under the direction of Hatheway-Tedesco Funeral Home and Crematory, 614 Baldwin St., Meadville.
Betty Jane Schwab
Betty Jane Schwab, 70, of 11310 Hunters Ridge Blvd., Meadville, died Saturday, April 28, 2001, at her residence after a courageous battle with cancer.
Born in Meadville Feb. 6, 1931, she was a daughter of Clarence (Herb) and Elizabeth Sample Peters. On Jan. 29, 1949, she married Francis R. (John) Schwab, who preceded her in death Jan. 4, 1997. After converting to the Catholic faith, she was married in St. Agatha Roman Catholic Church by the Rev. Weschler in June 1955.
She was a member of St. Agatha Roman Catholic Church.
An in-home assisted living provider in the Meadville area, she was a member of the Zipperette Cootiettes, a group that performed volunteer work at the Erie Veterans Hospital, and a member of the senior center line dancing group, AM Walkers at the Meadville Mall and TOPS Club 831.
She was a loving mother, grandmother and sister.
Survivors include two daughters, Phyllis C. Hamilton and her husband, Marvin, of Conneaut Lake, and Maureen Schwab of Meadville; one son, Mark S. Schwab and his wife, Cindy, of Meadville; eight grandchildren, Kurtis, Brett, Heather, Andrea, Keeley, Kerstyn, Cara and Molly; one great-granddaughter; a sister, Jean Green of Meadville; and several nieces and nephews.
In addition to her husband of 47 years, she was preceded in death by a son, David Lee Schwab; and an infant sister, Shirley Peters.
Private calling hours will be held at the convenience of the family.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Tuesday at 10 a.m. at St. Agatha Roman Catholic Church with the Rev. Regis Meenihan as celebrant.
Interment will be in St. Agatha Cemetery in Meadville.
Arrangements are under the direction of Byham-Miller-Mizner Funeral Home Inc., 404 Chestnut St., Meadville.
The family suggests memorials be made to St. Agatha Roman Catholic Church, 353 Pine St., Meadville, Pa. 16335; or Hospice of Crawford County Inc., 448 Pine St., Meadville, Pa. 16335.
Alice Hoffman
CAMBRIDGE SPRINGS - Alice Hoffman, 85, a resident of Beverly Healthcare, Cambridge Springs, died there Friday, April 27, 2001.
Born March 31, 1916, in Mercer County's Sandy Lake, she was a daughter of John Hoffman and Annie Murdoch Hoffman Sponsler.
After 41 years in Polk, she moved to Meadville, where she lived for 10 years before moving to Beverly Healthcare, where she resided for several years.
Survivors include her cousin, Alice Bell of Meadville, who was her caretaker; a half brother, Charles Sponsler of Kinsman, Ohio; a sister, Sarah Hoffman of Elwood City; one brother, Paul Hoffman of Kinsman; and several nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by a half sister, Betty Henry; two sisters, Hazel Hoffman and Tillie Myers; and a brother, Clyde Hoffman.
Calling hours are Monday from 5 to 7 p.m. at Ronald Dickson Funeral Home, 123 S. Franklin St., Cochranton.
The funeral will be at 7 p.m. Monday at the funeral home with the Rev. Daniel Artman of Wadsworth Avenue Evangelical Church of Meadville officiating.
Interment will be in Lupher Cemetery.
Betty Jane Schwab
Betty Jane Schwab, 70, of 11310 Hunters Ridge Blvd., Meadville, died Saturday, April 28, 2001, at her home.
Arrangements are incomplete and under the direction of Byham-Miller-Mizner Funeral Home inc., 404 Chestnut St., Meadville.
Hazel B. Holmberg
RIDGWAY - Hazel B. Holmberg, 95, formerly of Laurel Mill Road, Ridgway, died Wednesday, April 25, 2001, at Elk Haven Nursing Home in St. Mary's following a lengthy illness.
Born Sept. 15, 1905 in Sigel, she was a daughter of Arthur L. and Minnie Edeburn Dunkle. On Oct. 2, 1923, she married Clarence Holmberg; he preceded her in death April 24, 1978.
A resident of Ridgway most of her life, she had been a very active member of the Church of Christ in Ridgway and was a Gold Star Mother.
Survivors include three sons, Ronald Holmberg of Ridgway, Merle Holmberg of Meadville, and Gayle Holmberg of Hendersonville, N.C.; a daughter, Arveta Carson of Ridgway; 15 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; and several nieces and nephews.
In addition to her husband of 54 years, she was preceded in death by a son, Clarence Holmberg Jr., in World War II; a grandson, Bradley Holmberg; five brothers and five sisters.
Funeral and committal services were Saturday; burial followed in Fairview Cemetery.
Arrangements were under the direction of Thompson Funeral Home, 136 Center St., Ridgway.
The family suggests memorials be made to Church of Christ, 225 Ash St., Ridgway, Pa. 15853; or Elk Haven Nursing Home, 785 Johnsonburg Road, St. Mary's, Pa. 15857.
Jeffrey L. Power
NEW FAIRFIELD, Conn. - Jeffrey L. Power, 45, of New Fairfield, Conn., died Wednesday, April 25, 2001, at the Danbury, Conn., Hospital, of pneumonia.
He was born in Butler April 9, 1956, a son of Donald and Fern Chiterster Power, formerly of Cochranton. He wasn't married.
He was a mechanic and was on call when tow trucks were needed.
Survivors, in addition to his parents of Jensen Beach, Fla., include a brother, Gregory A. Power of Jensen Beach.
The memorial service will be Monday at 11 a.m. at Trinity United Methodist Church, Jensen Beach.
Burial will be in Fernhill Memorial Gardens, Stuart, Fla.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials be made to the Memorial Fund at Trinity United Methodist Church, 2221 Savannah Road, Jensen Beach, Fla. 34957.
Arrangements are under the direction of Aycock Funeral Home, 950 NE Jensen Beach Blvd., Jensen Beach, Fla.
John Leroy Patterson
CONNEAUTVILLE - John Leroy Patterson, 89, a resident of Rolling Fields, Conneautville, for the past two years, died there Thursday, April 26, 2001.
He was born in Wilkinsburg April 23, 1912, a son of Roy and Jeanette Sloan Patterson. He married Elizabeth Green May 6, 1936.
He was employed with Westinghouse and Steel Car as a welding instructor.
He lived with his daughter for 21 years before moving to Rolling Fields.
Survivors, in addition to his wife of 64 years, include two sons, Ronald Patterson and his wife, Sandra, of Trinidad, Texas, and Marvin George Patterson and his wife, Patricia, of Mercer; a daughter, Debra Ann Lyons and her husband, Richard, of Cochranton; eight grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and a sister, Mary Louise Oakes of Conneautville.
He was preceded in death by a sister, Dorothy Gregory.
The funeral is today at 1 p.m. at Ronald Dickson Funeral Home, 123 S. Franklin St., Cochranton., with the Rev. Gary Runtas of Cochranton United Methodist Church officiating.
Burial will be in Hadley Cemetery.
John Leroy Patterson
CONNEAUTVILLE - John Leroy Patterson, 89, a resident of Rolling Fields, Conneautville, for the past two years, died there Thursday, April 26, 2001.
He was born in Wilkinsburg April 23, 1912, a son of Roy and Jeanette Sloan Patterson. He married Elizabeth Green May 6, 1936.
He was employed with Westinghouse and Steel Car as a welding instructor.
He lived with his daughter for 21 years before moving to Rolling Fields.
Survivors, in addition to his wife of 64 years, include two sons, Ronald Patterson and his wife, Sandra, of Trinidad, Texas, and Marvin George Patterson and his wife, Patricia, of Cochranton; a daughter, Debra Ann Lyons and her husband, Richard, of Cochranton; eight grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and a sister, Mary Louise Oakes of Conneautville.
He was preceded in death by a sister, Dorothy Gregory.
Calling hours are today from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. at Ronald Dickson Funeral Home, 123 S. Franklin St., Cochranton.
The funeral will be Saturday at 1 p.m. at the funeral home, with the Rev. Gary Runtas of Cochranton United Methodist Church officiating.
Burial will be in Hadley Cemetery.
Richard T. Phillips
ESPYVILLE - Richard T. Phillips, 79, of Collins Drive, Espyville, died Wednesday, April 26, 2001, at Meadville Medical Center.
Born in McKeesport Aug. 19, 1921, he was a son of Robert and Thelma Ferguson Phillips. He married Stella Yonich Pagliarulo May 10, 1965, and she preceded him in death Jan. 10, 1986.
He was a graduate of Duquesne High School and Robert Morris College with a bachelor of science in business administration. He was also a graduate of the Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science and the Cleveland School of Cosmetology.
He was a U.S. Navy Veteran of World War II.
He held an administrative position with the Pennsylvania Railroad, Pittsburgh, for 10 years and subsequently worked for General Motors in West Mifflin for 28 years, retiring in 1988 as a fork lift operator.
He was a member of Adelphia Masonic Lodge 241, Jamestown, where he was a 32nd degree Mason. He was also a member of Scottish Rite Bodies and Syria Shrine, Pittsburgh.
He was a member of Espyville United Methodist Church and its Wednesday morning breakfast club. He enjoyed shopping and playing bingo.
Survivors include a daughter, Victoria Gallo and her husband, John, of Espyville; three grandchildren, John, Chase and Jared Gallo; two sisters, Mary Lou Lopretta and her husband, Bernard, and Helen Kalo and her husband, Joseph, all of Port View; a brother, William Phillips of McKeesport; and nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by a brother, Jack Phillips, and a stepson, Christopher Pagliarulo.
Calling hours are today from 7 to 9 p.m. and Saturday from noon to 2 p.m. at Waid-Coleman Funeral Home, 12422 Conneaut Lake Road, Conneaut Lake, with a Masonic service today at 9 p.m.
The funeral will be Saturday at 2 p.m. at the funeral home, with the Rev. Jay Polowsky of Espyville United Methodist Church officiating.
Burial will be in St. Clare of Assisi Cemetery, Clairton.
William A. Welsh
ESPYVILLE - William A. Welsh, 63, of Espyville, formerly of North Side, Pittsburgh, died Monday, April 23, 2001 at Meadville Medical Center.
Born in Pittsburgh Nov. 8, 1937, he was a son of William A. and Kathryn Dunlevy Welsh. He married Marsha L. Rovitto Sept. 25, 1965, at St. Joseph's Church, Pittsburgh.
He served in peacetime with the U.S. Army as a tank driver. He retired from United Parcel Service as a tractor trailer driver in 1998 after 35 years.
He was a member of Linesville American Legion Post 462 and Teamsters Union 249 of Pittsburgh.
He enjoyed the outdoors, especially hunting, fishing and vegetable gardening. He also enjoyed NASCAR.
Survivors, in addition to his wife, include a son, William J. Welsh of Bellevue; and a daughter, Anna Marie Boylan and her husband, Glenn, of Westview.
The memorial service will be Saturday at 11 a.m. at St. Philip Church, 401 S. Mercer St., Linesville, with the Rev. John G. Barwin officiating.
Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, 464 Pine St., Meadville.
Arrangements are under the direction of Harold W. Coleman Jr. Funeral Home, 6028 U.S. Highway 6 Linesville.
Stanley M. Hazen
LOWER BURRELL - Stanley M. Hazen, 83, of Lower Burrell for the past 20 years, and formerly of Cheswick, died Tuesday, April 17, 2001, at Allegheny Valley Hospital, Harrison.
Born in Greenville March 11, 1918, he was a son of Murl M. and Lou Zella Smock Hazen. He married Lois Adsit, who is originally from Geneva and grew up in Crawford County.
A graduate of Thiel College, Greenville, with a bachelor's degree in chemistry, he was a research chemist for 35 years at Gulf Research and Development in Harmar before retiring 19 years ago.
He was a member of Bethel United Methodist Church, Lower Burrell; the American Association of Retired Persons, serving as treasurer; volunteer for Lower Burrell Meals-on-Wheels; and a former member of the Gulf Research bowling league.
He enjoyed woodworking.
Survivors, in addition to his wife of 58 years, include a son, Paul Hazen of Verona; three daughters, Theresa (Terri) Carmen and her husband, Joseph, of O'Hara, Diane Lloyd and her husband, Edward, of Lower Burrell; and Jeannette Sherman and her husband, Richard, of Oak Hill, Va.; and nine grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by a brother, Willard M. Hazen.
The funeral was April 18 at Rusiewicz of Lower Burrell Funeral Home, 3124 Leechburg Road at Alder Street, with the Rev. Warren Jones officiating.
Burial was in Greenwood Memorial Park, Lower Burrell.
The family suggests memorials be made to Bethel United Methodist Church, 150 Alder St., Lower Burrell, Pa. 15068.
Vincent R. Gladis
Vincent R. Gladis, 84, of 698 Arch St., Meadville, died Tuesday, April 24, 2001, at his residence.
He was born in Meadville Aug. 17, 1916, a son of John and Mary Konce Gladis. He married Lois M. Callahan April 5, 1947.
He retired as a signalman from Conrail.
He attended St. Agatha Roman Catholic Church.
Survivors, in addition to his wife of 54 years, include two sons, Timothy M. Gladis of Brookfield, Ohio, and V. Patrick Gladis of Meadville; two stepdaughters, Jane Benham and her husband, Al, and Ann Louise Hays and her husband, Jerry, all of St. Petersburg, Fla.; a stepson, Richard B. Bulger of Meadville; 16 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; two sisters, Francis Maysak of North Olmstead, Ohio, and Jenny Sivik of Meadville; and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by a sister, Mary Keefe, and two brothers, John and Thomas Gladis.
There are no calling hours.
Services will be private and at the convenience of the family at Roofner-Collins Funeral Home, 544 Chestnut St., Meadville, with the Rev. Gregory P. Passauer, pastor of St. Agatha Roman Catholic Church, officiating.
Burial will be in St. Brigid Cemetery.
The family suggests memorials be made to a charity of the donor's choice.
Richard T. Phillips
ESPYVILLE - Richard T. Phillips, 79, of Espyville, died Wednesday, April 25, 2001, at Meadville Medical Center.
Arrangements are incomplete and under the direction of Waid-Coleman Funeral Home, 12422 Conneaut Lake Road, Conneaut Lake.
Frederic G. (Bud) Gillespie
FLORIDA - Frederic G. (Bud) Gillespie, 78, of Florida died Sunday, April 22, 2001, at home.
He was born in Greenville Dec. 10, 1922, and raised there, a son of Robert W. and Mildred Ellis Gillespie. He married Ann Baird.
He attended public schools in Greenville and Long Beach, Calif., and attended college at the University of New Mexico, Long Beach College, Baldwin Wallace College in the Naval V-12 Program and graduated from Thiel College, Greenville, with a bachelor of science in economics.
He enlisted in the U.S. Navy in World War II as an apprentice seaman, and advanced to Midshipmen's School where he was commissioned a naval officer in 1943. He trained in amphibious warfare at Ft. Pierce, Fla. and spent the next three years in the Pacific taking part in landings in the Marshall Islands, the Caroline Islands, Okinawa, the Philippines and Shima with landings of army and marine troops. As a boat group commander, he landed the first Occupation troops in Japan at Tokyo Bay Aug. 25, 1945. He witnessed the Japanese surrender aboard the battleship Missoura in September 1945.
Upon his return in 1946 from Japan, he completed his education and embarked on an insurance career that lasted 50 years. During this time he formed his own company, Associated Life Underwriters, where he served as president from 1966 to 1980. At that time he retired as a trustee of the School Employees Insurance Trust.
He was active in Scouting, serving as cubmaster of Troop 90; the Meadville Lions Club; Masonic Lodge 408 in Meadville; Eureka Masonic Lodge 290 of Greenville; president and director of Crawford County Life Underwriters Association. He was also chairman of the Creditors Committee of Try-M Finance Co.; director of FNB Consumer Discount Company; officer and director of TROA, the retired officers association; member of the Iroquois Boating and Fishing Club; and past member of the Greenville Country Club.
Survivors include his daughter, Pamela Harford of Greenville; a son, Todd Gillespie of South Carolina; five grandchildren; and a sister, Miriam Filer of Columbus, Ohio.
He was preceded in death by a brother, Robert Gillespie Jr.
Calling hours will be Friday from 6 p.m. until time of the service at John W. Kerpan Funeral Home, 1 Donation Road, Greenville. Eureka Masonic Lodge 290 will conduct a Masonic service there at 7 p.m.
The memorial service will follow Friday at 8:30 p.m. at the funeral home, with the Rev. John O. Woods, retired colonel chaplain, officiating.
The family suggests memorials be made to Shriners Hospital for Children, 1645 W. Eighth St., Erie, Pa. 16505.
Arthur Berardi
CONNEAUT LAKE - Arthur Berardi, 78, of 12060 Shady Ave., Conneaut Lake, died Monday, April 23, 2001 at Meadville Medical Center.
He was born in Coraopolis April 15, 1923, a son of Basil and Marie Mele Berardi. He married Mildred Granilo Knezo Dec. 2, 1980.
A 1941 graduate of Moon Township High School, he was a U.S. Army veteran of World War II serving from Jan. 12, 1943, to Oct. 1, 1945. He served with the 5th General Hospital, Harvard University Medical Unit as a medic in the European Theatre of Operations.
He was a 1946 graduate of the Pennsylvania State Police Academy and subsequently worked as a state policeman from May 1, 1946, to May 23, 1974, retiring as sergeant. He served as police commissioner for the city of Pottsville, Schuylkill County, from Oct. 1, 1975, to Jan. 1, 1979. He then was appointed by former Mayor Louis Tullio as director of police operations for the city of Erie and served from Jan. 14, 1984, until his retirement Jan. 1, 1989.
He was president of the Pennsylvania Association of Retired State Police in 1998 and current president of the Northwest Pennsylvania Chapter of Retired State Police since 1991. He was a member of the American Society of Criminology, American Federation of Police, International Association of Chiefs of Police and was a charter member of the Fraternal Order of Police. He was a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, American Legion, Catholic War Veterans, Meadville Elks Lodge 219 and the Italian Civic Club, Meadville.
He was a member of Our Lady Queen of Americas Roman Catholic Church.
Survivors, in addition to his wife of 20 years, include a stepson, Jack Knezo and his wife, Barbara, of Coatesville; two daughters, Karen Knezo of St. Petersburg, Fla., and Janice Stramara and her husband, Jason, of Auburn; three stepgrandchildren, Jason, Zachary and Elise Knezo; two sisters, Gilda Pitaro and her husband, Eugene, of South Heights, and Emma Lacenere and her husband, Ray, of Mary Esther, Fla.; and three brothers, Angelo Berardi and his wife, Becky, Enrico Berardi and his wife, Isabelle, and Alfred Berardi, all of Coraopolis.
He was preceded in death by a sister, Josephine Berardi.
Calling hours will be Thursday from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. at Waid-Coleman Funeral Home, 12422 Conneaut Lake Road, Conneaut Lake, with a scripture prayer service at 6:45 p.m. and an Elks service at 7.
Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Friday at 10 a.m. at Our Lady Queen of the Americas Roman Catholic Church, 155 S. Ninth St., Conneaut Lake, with the Rev. Steven Anderson as celebrant.
Burial will be in Our Lady Queen of Americas Cemetery.
The family suggests memorials be made to Our Lady Queen of Americas Roman Catholic Church, P.O. Box 110, Conneaut Lake, Pa. 16316.
William A. Welsh
ESPYVILLE - William A. Welsh, 63, of Espyville, formerly of North Side, Pittsburgh, died Monday, April 23, 2001 at Meadville Medical Center.
Born in Pittsburgh Nov. 8, 2001, he was a son of William A. and Kathryn Dunlevy Welsh. He married Marsha L. Rovitto Sept. 25, 1965, at St. Joseph's Church, Pittsburgh.
He served in peacetime with the U.S. Army as a tank driver. He retired from United Parcel Service as a tractor trailer driver in 1998 after 35 years.
He was a member of Linesville American Legion Post 462 and Teamsters Union 249 of Pittsburgh.
He enjoyed the out-of-doors, especially hunting, fishing and vegetable gardening. He also enjoyed NASCAR.
Survivors, in addition to his wife, include a son, William J. Welsh of Bellevue; and a daughter, Anna Marie Boylan and her husband, Glenn, of Westview.
The memorial service will be Saturday at 11 a.m. at St. Philip Church, 401 S. Mercer St., Linesville, with the Rev. John G. Barwin officiating.
Arrangements are under the direction of Harold W. Coleman Jr. Funeral Home, 6028 U.S. Highway 6 Linesville.
Roberta (Bert) Wilson
MODESTO, Calif. - Roberta (Bert) Wilson, 71, of Modesto, Calif., died Saturday, April 21, 2001, at her residence.
Born in Meadville Jan. 4, 1930, she was a daughter of Alton and Mabel Lee Hendryx Ewing.
She lived in Pleasanton, Calif., from 1970 to 1986 and in Modesto for the past 15 years.
She was a dispatcher for Shell Oil for 25 years and a bookkeeper for ADK Pilot Car for the last 10 years.
An avid square dancer for many years, she also loved water skiing, ceramics, sewing and reading.
Survivors include her stepmother, Virginia Ewing of Centerville, Ohio; five children, Dianna Macklin of Modesto, Chris Bechler of Modesto, Walter Bechler II of Post Falls, Idaho, Karen O'Dell of Valley Springs, Calif., and Kim Lewis of Modesto; 18 grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and a cousin.
There are no calling hours.
The memorial service will be Sunday at 10:30 a.m. at Lone Oak Hall, 913 S. Santa Cruz Ave., Modesto.
The family suggests memorials be made to American Cancer Society, 1604 Ford Ave., Modesto, Calif. 95350; or Community Hospice, 601 McHenry Ave., Modesto.
Arrangements are under the direction of Colonial Chapel-Franklin and Downs Funeral Home, Modesto.
Norman J. (Pooch) Sugar
LAS VEGAS, Nev. - Norman J. (Pooch) Sugar, 61, a 15-year resident of Las Vegas, Nev., died Wednesday, April 18, 2001.
He was born in Meadville Nov. 24, 1939, a son of Joseph and Lena Sugar.
A U.S. Navy veteran, he was a bartender.
He was a member of the Italian-American Club.
Survivors include his companion, Debra Thompson of Las Vegas; a son, Joseph of Las Vegas; two daughters, Leslie of Pittsburgh and Melanie of Slippery Rock; a sister, Patricia Preus of Las Vegas; and two grandchildren.
Graveside services were in Palm Valley View Memorial Park, Las Vegas.
The family suggests memorials be made to the American Cancer Society, 505 Poplar St., Suite P310, Meadville, Pa. 16335.
Virginia M. Johnson
GUYS MILLS - Virginia M. Johnson, 89, of 13586 State Highway 198, Guys Mills, died Tuesday, April 24, 2001, at Meadville Medical Center.
Born in Pittsburgh April 5, 1912, she was a daughter of Joseph and Mary Kline Elmen. She married Henry T. Johnson. He preceded her in death March 6, 1997.
She was a homemaker.
She was a member of St. Hippolyte Roman Catholic Church and Meadville Eagles Aerie 429 Auxiliary.
She liked bowling, fishing, playing cards and enjoyed making quilts.
Survivors include three daughters, Jean Bollis and her husband, Wilbur, of Meadville, Elizabeth Conrad of Blooming Valley, and Kate Johnston and her husband, James R., of Meadville; a son, Ronald Johnson and his wife, Laura, of Blooming Valley; 10 grandchildren; several great-grandchildren; a sister, Margaret Cupples of Sebastian, Fla.; and several nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by six brothers and sisters.
Calling hours will be Thursday from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. at Roofner-Collins Funeral Home Inc., 544 Chestnut St., Meadville.
The funeral and committal service will be Friday at 11 a.m. at the funeral home, with the Rev. B. LaMounte Sayers of St. Hippolyte Roman Catholic Church officiating.
Burial will be in Blooming Valley Cemetery.
Deborah L. Palmer Swartzfager
GROVE CITY - Deborah L. Palmer Swartzfager, 44, of 25 McConnell Road, Findley Township, Grove City, died Monday, April 23, 2001, at her home after a short illness.
Born in Grove City Aug. 11, 1956, she was a daughter of Dewitt B. and Marjorie J. Swickard Palmer. She married James E. Swartzfager Dec. 24, 1985.
In her earlier years, she worked at GTI of Hadley and Custom Fold of Stoneboro.
She was a homemaker and devoted mother, daughter and a great friend to many. She loved growing flowers and gardening and was a motorcycle enthusiast.
She was of the Protestant faith.
Survivors, in addition to her husband who resides at Orchard Manor Nursing Home, Grove City, include her parents of Mercer; her companion, Timothy E. Crissman; a daughter, Tamrah Jean (T.J.) Swartzfager at home; two brothers, Robert C. (Bill) Palmer and his companion, Gail, of Mercer, and Donald D. Palmer and his wife, Patricia, of Sharon; and a granddaughter, Jordan Torma.
She was preceded in death by her grandparents.
There are no calling hours.
Private services will be at Scott A. Black Funeral Home, 99 Franklin St., Stoneboro, with the Rev. Randy L. Ritchey of Oak Grove Wesleyan Church, Mercer, officiating.
The family suggests memorials be made to Sharon Regional Health System Hospice, 490 N. Kerrwood Drive, Hermitage, Pa. 16148.
Helen M. Benedict
Helen M. Benedict, 86, formerly of School Street, Pleasantville, died Tuesday, April 24, 2001, at Wesbury United Methodist Retirement Community, where she had been a resident since Feb. 9, 1995.
Born in Titusville May 4, 1914, she was a daughter of Ralph J. and Lillian Higby Berlin. She married Richard L. Benedict Aug. 20, 1936, in Pleasantville. He preceded her in death Dec. 17, 1997.
She was a 1931 graduate of Titusville High School, was formerly a nurse's aid at several local nursing homes and was a homemaker.
She was a member of Pleasantville United Methodist Church, where she formerly served as youth director and was a former member of United Methodist Women. She was also a former member of Pleasantville Woman's Club, Pleasantville Senior Citizens and Lady Drake Rebekah Lodge 301 Order of Eastern Star.
Survivors include four daughters, Jeannette Prody and her husband, Thomas, of Meadville, Susanne Hunter and her husband, Jeffrey, of Hollister, Calif., Frances Smith and her husband, William, of Meadville, and Kathleen Pasquale of Erie; nine grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; two sisters, Beatrice Monroe of winter Haven, Fla., and Beaulah Reisinger of Titusville; a brother, Orlo A. Berlin of Titusville; and numerous nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by a brother, Ralph Berlin.
Calling hours are today from 7 to 9 p.m. and Thursday from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Leo N. Hennes Funeral Home, 203 E. Main St., Titusville.
The funeral will be Thursday at 11 a.m. at the funeral home, with the Rev. Alice Jean Parker of Pleasantville United Methodist Church officiating.
Burial will be in Fairview Cemetery, Pleasantville.
The family suggests memorials be made to Pleasantville United Methodist Church, Merrick and North Main streets, Pleasantville, Pa. 16341; or Wesbury United Methodist Retirement Community, 31 Park Ave., Meadville, Pa. 16335.
Arthur Berardi
Arthur Berardi, 78, of 12060 Shady Ave., Conneaut Lake, a retired Pennsylvania State Police trooper and former director of police operations for the city of Erie, died Monday, April 23, 2001, at Meadville Medical Center.
Arrangements are incomplete and under the direction of Waid-Coleman Funeral Home, 12422 Conneaut Lake Road, Conneaut Lake.
William A. McFarlin
William A. McFarlin, 91, a Marion, Ohio native and a resident of 11115 Hunter's Ridge Blvd., Meadville, died Sunday, April 22, 2001, at Rolling Fields, Conneautville, after a period of declining health.
He was born in Marion June 27, 1909, a son of Harry and Effie Andrews McFarlin. He first married Glendora Sims, who preceded him in death July 1, 1967. He subsequently married Ruth Anna Brinkman Oct. 10, 1971.
He had been employed as a truck driver for many years, and retired as warehouse manager for Sims Brothers Recycling of Marion.
He was a member and former deacon of Emmanuel Lutheran Church of Marion. He especially enjoyed his family and had been an avid fisherman.
Survivors, in addition to his wife of 29 years of Meadville, include a daughter, Sheila Dix and her husband, John, of Greenville, N.C.; two sons, Allen McFarlin and his wife, Debbie, of Tampa, Fla., and Brendt McFarlin and his wife, Barbara, of Tucson, Ariz.; a stepdaughter, Barbara Creasap of Meadville; six grandchildren; five step-grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; seven stepgreat-grandchildren; seven great-great-grandchildren; a stepgreat-great-grandchild; and a brother, Harry McFarlin of Lakeland, Fla.
He was preceded in death by a sister, Mildred Ledley.
Calling hours will be Thursday from 6 to 8 p.m. at Gunder, Hall and Folk Funeral Directors, 347 W. Center St., Marion.
The funeral will be Friday at 10:30 a.m. at the funeral home, with the Rev. Weston Jones of Emmanuel Lutheran Church officiating.
Burial will be in Chapel Heights Memorial Gardens, Marion.
The family suggests memorials be made to Emmanuel Lutheran Church, 241 S. Prospect St., Marion, Ohio 43302; or Trinity Lutheran Church, 649 Park Ave., Meadville, Pa. 16335.
Local arrangements are under the direction of Robert W. Waid Funeral Home Inc., 581 Chestnut St., Meadville.
Virginia (Ginny) Palka
Virginia (Ginny) Palka, 81, of 15903 State Highway 86, Meadville, died Monday, April 23, 2001, at her residence.
Born in Union Township Feb. 18, 1920, she was a daughter of Wallace and Irene Reitze Thatcher, later Irene Freyermuth.
She married John J. Palka July 6, 1946. He preceded her in death June 13, 1993.
A 1938 graduate of Meadville High School, she later graduated from Meadville Commercial College. She worked in the accounting department of Abex Corp. for 39 years, retiring in February 1982.
She was a member of St. Agatha Roman Catholic Church and the Heart to Heart Club. She enjoyed reading, crocheting, cards, bingo and spending her winters in Ft. Pierce, Fla., the past several years.
Survivors include a sister, Pauline Kebert of Meadville; and several nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by a sister, Bernice Peterson.
Calling hours will be Wednesday from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. at Roofner-Collins Funeral Home, 544 Chestnut St., Meadville, with a vigil prayer service at 8 p.m.
Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Thursday at 10 a.m. at St. Agatha Roman Catholic Church, 353 Pine St., Meadville, with the Rev. Gregory P. Passauer as celebrant.
Burial will be in Roselawn Memorial Gardens.
The family suggests memorials be made to St. Agatha Roman Catholic Church, 353 Pine St., Meadville, Pa. 16335; or a charity of the donor's choice.
Rosannah McHale Campbell Royer
SHARON - Rosannah McHale Campbell Royer, 99, of Cordia Commons at the Shenango Inn, Sharon, and formerly of 513 Liberty St., Jamestown, died Sat., April 21, 2001, at Cordia Commons.
Born May 21, 1901, in Jamestown, she was a daughter of William Henry and Edith Rosetta Adsit Campbell. She married David R. Royer in 1945. He died in 1951. She was previously married to James A. McHale. He died in 1933.
The lifelong homemaker was a member of Jamestown Presbyterian Church since 1913. She was also a member of Jamestown Senior Citizens, a life member of the Order of Eastern Star, Stoneboro chapter, and was the great-granddaughter of the founder of the city of Jamestown, James Campbell.
Survivors include two daughters, Marilyn L. (Mae) Patton of Jamestown and Pauline (Polly) Hendrix of Lake Latonka, Mercer; nine grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.
In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by three sons, James A. McHale, Marvin E. McHale and an infant son, Robert W. Moyer; five brothers, James, Charles, Fred Lawrence and Wilburt; five sisters, Jennie, Gail, Inez, Gertrude and Edith; and one granddaughter, Marjorie L. Patton.
Calling hours will be Monday from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Randall Funeral Home, 416 Liberty St., Jamestown.
The funeral will be Tuesday at 11 a.m. at the funeral home with the Rev. Robert Kobele of Jamestown Presbyterian Church officiating.
Burial will be in Park Lawn Cemetery, Jamestown.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to the Jamestown Presbyterian Church, 411 Liberty St., Jamestown, Pa., 16134.
Charles Katulich
Charles Katulich, 72, of 13017 Park Lane Drive, Meadville, died Friday, April 20, 2001, at Meadville Medical Center.
Born May 24, 1928, in Warren, Ohio, he was a son of John and Sarah Katulich. He married Grace Norris.
During a career at Talon Inc., he was a member of International Association of Machinists Union Local 2213, served as a business representative for IAM District 83 from 1967 until 1987, and was elected state vice-president of the Pennsylvania AFL-CIO.
Friends and family say he dedicated most of his adult life to the labor movement, and made a difference in the lives of men and woman across the state as a result of that commitment.
His dedication to the union was only one facet of his work on behalf of labor. He also served as director of the Crawford County Labor Management Committee, was on the Democratic Executive Board, was a member of the Northwest Partnership Training Consortium and was president of the Crawford County Labor Union Council.
In addition, the veteran of the Korean conflict was a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, was member and past president of the Eagles Club, a member of Elks Club 219 and the Meadville Club.
Survivors, in addition to his wife of 48 years, include two sons, Douglas Katulich of Tampa, Fla. and John Katulich of Meadville; one daughter, Mrs. Joseph Carol Raab of Butler; two brothers, Rudy Katulich and his wife, Donna, of Erie and Tony Katulich of Corry; two sisters, Lois Ostrynice and her husband, Robert, of Erie and Mary Rosier and her husband, Mel, of Meadville; three grandchildren, Nichole Katulich, Ryan Katulich and Joseph James Raab, all of Meadville, and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by a brother, Michael Katulich.
Calling hours will be Monday 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. at the Roofner-Collins Funeral Home Inc., 544 Chestnut St.
A funeral service will be Tuesday at 11 a.m. at the funeral home with the Rev. John L. Miller of Park Congregational Church presiding.
An Eagles service will be at 7 p.m. Monday at the home.
Burial will be in Roselawn Memorial Gardens.
Donna L. Lloyd
Donna L. Lloyd, 62, of 666 N. Morgan St., Meadville, died Friday, April 20, 2001, at Meadville Medical Center.
Born April 17, 1939, in Leechburg, she was a daughter of Ralph D. and Pauline M. Peters Brunton. She married Robert E. Lloyd Aug. 27, 1960.
The 1957 Grove City High School graduate earned a degree in airline reservations and traffic management from the Humboldt Institute of Traffic, Minneapolis, Minn., in 1957. She then worked as a reservation agent with Burlington Northern Railroad in Chicago, Ill., from 1958 until 1963, and for seven years, she was secretary at Bob's TV and Appliance of Meadville. She then served as manager of Lloyd's Speed Wash of Conneaut Lake for 24 years, retiring in 1998.
In addition to being a former member of the Iroquois Club, she also enjoyed cross-stitching and spending time with her family.
She was a member of the Stone United Methodist Church, where she was a member of the bell choir and taught Sunday school and Bible school.
Survivors, in addition to her husband of 40 years, include her mother, Pauline Brunton of Grove City; two sons, Douglas S. Lloyd and his wife, Shelley, and Brian K. Lloyd and his wife, Tracey, all of Meadville; one daughter, Kimberly K. Corey and her husband, Dennis, of Harmony; 11 grandchildren, Jennifer K. Lloyd, John M. Crandall, Joshua R. Crandall, Adam K. Lloyd, Aaron M. Lloyd, Alec D. Lloyd, R. Thomas Lloyd, Cade D. Corey, Keegan C. Corey, Trista Corey and Channing Corey; and one great-granddaughter.
In addition to her father, she was preceded in death by an infant brother and three infant sisters.
Calling hours will be today from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. at the Robert W. Waid Funeral Home, 581 Chestnut St., Meadville.
The funeral will be Tuesday at 2 p.m. at Stone United Methodist Church, 956 S. Main St., Meadville, with the Rev. William L. Brown, visitation pastor, officiating.
Burial will be in Greendale Cemetery.
The family suggests memorials be made to Stone United Methodist Church, 956 S. Main St., Meadville, Pa., 16335, or to a charity of the donor's choice.
Frank Edward Rey
DALLAS, TEXAS - Frank Edward Rey, 80, died unexpectedly April 3, 2001, at his home in Dallas, Texas.
Born Feb. 11, 1921, in Meadville, he was a son of Joseph Rey and Ernestine Mona of Alsace Lorraine, Germany. He married Dorothy Frances Platt in 1946. They divorced in 1968. She died in 1986.
He was a graduate of St. Agatha's School in Meadville and Notre Dame College. He was a World War II U.S. Navy veteran who participated in the Normandy invasion.
He enjoyed a long career in education, teaching economics and business at Notre Dame, business administration and accounting at the University of Dallas and journalism and accounting at Bishop Dunn in Dallas, Texas.
He later worked as secretary-treasurer of Gopher Oil Co. of Dallas, Texas.
In recent years, he was an avid supporter of the Theatre Three of Dallas, Texas. and The Lyric Stage of Irving, Texas.
Survivors include a daughter, Margaret L. Rey of Dallas, Texas; a son, Thomas Edward Rey and his wife, Kelly, of Aubrey, Texas; a granddaughter, Dorothy Gail Rey of Aubrey, Texas; his companion, Harland Wright of Dallas, Texas, and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by five sisters, Ernestine Rey Harmon, Mary Rey Diehl, Theresa Ann Rey and Sister Louisa Rey of the Order of St. Joseph, all of Meadville and Rita Rey Kemper of Beverly Hills, Fla.; and one brother, Joseph Eugene Rey of West Palm Beach, Fla.
A memorial service was April 16 at the Restland Funeral Home, Greenville Avenue, Dallas, Texas.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to the Frank Rey Memorial Fund, Theatre Three, 2800 Routh St., Dallas, Texas, 75201.
Marcia Moffitt Shorts
Marcia Moffitt Shorts, 77, of 24497 State St., died Friday, April 20, 2001, at Meadville Medical Center.
Born Oct. 1, 1923, in Franklin, she was a daughter of Robert Bruce and Dorothea Campbell Moffitt. She married Ronald L. Shorts Nov. 18, 1950.
A 1941 graduate of Franklin High School and also a graduate of Franklin Business College, she worked as a secretary at Joy Manufacturing Co. of Franklin for nine years. She later did clerical work for the former Carpenter Electric of Meadville, was a secretary at Talon Inc. and was a homemaker.
She was an avid doll collector and loved to travel.
A member of the Blooming Valley United Methodist Church and former member of the United Methodist Women, she also attended Woodcock Presbyterian Church.
Survivors, in addition to her husband of 50 years, include one son, Jeffrey James Shorts of Saegertown; two brothers, William Moffitt and his wife, Marilyn, and Thomas Moffitt and his wife, Eleanor, all of Franklin; seven nieces and 10 nephews.
She was preceded in death by a sister, Marilyn Allen, and a brother, Robert Bruce Moffitt Jr.
Calling hours will be Monday from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. at the Robert W. Waid Funeral Home, 581 Chestnut St., Meadville.
The funeral will be Tuesday at 11 a.m. at the funeral home with the Rev. Tracy Cox, pastor of Blooming Valley United Methodist Church, officiating.
Burial will be in Blooming Valley Cemetery.
The family suggests memorials be made to the American Cancer Society, Crawford Unit, 464 Pine St., Meadville, Pa., 16335.
Ruth H. Deeter
FRANKLIN - Ruth H. Deeter, 80, of RD 2, Franklin, died Thursday, April 19, 2001, at The Caring Place, Franklin.
She was born in Canal Township Feb. 16, 1921, a daughter of William David and Hallie Ellen Yarger Cotterman.
She retired from Venango Manor in 1985 as a nurse's aide.
Survivors include three sons, Charles LeRoy Young Jr. of Franklin, Ronald Eugene Young and his wife, Karan, of Cranberry, and Richard Allen Whitling Sr. and his fiance, Melissa Sliter, of Franklin; a stepson, Steven Lee Deeter of Greenville; a stepdaughter, Tiny Young-McFarland of Ohio; 10 grandchildren, Helen Littlefield, Scott Miller, Richard A. Whitling Jr., Ronald A. Whitling, Rebecca L. Whitling, Karrie J. Young, Kristy L. Young, Randall S. Whitling, Sadie A. Bosley and Leah Moore; and nine great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Charles Young; a stepson, Larry Gene Deeter; a granddaughter, Katie Young; six brothers, Walter, Carl, Leon, Frank, Lawrence and Harry Cotterman; and five sisters, Frances Ace, Edna Rhoades, Florence Gardner, Twila Fuller and Mabel Haun.
Calling hours are today from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. at Robert W. Gardinier Funeral Home Inc. 1315 Chestnut St., Franklin.
The funeral will be Sunday at 1:30 p.m. at the funeral home, with the Rev. Robert Guy, chaplain of The Caring Place, officiating.
Burial will be in Peters Cemetery.
The family suggests memorials be made to the Christian Loving Fund at The Caring Place, 103 13th St., Franklin, Pa. 16323; Visiting Nurse Association of Venango County, 308 Seneca St., Oil City, Pa. 16301; or Northwest Medical Center Foundation, 1 Spruce St., Franklin, Pa. 16323.
The Rev. James G. Cousins
BLOOMING VALLEY - The Rev. James G. Cousins, Doctor of Divinity, 88, of Blooming Valley, died Thursday, April 19, 2001, at Meadville Medical Center following a brief illness.
He was born in Pleasantville, Venango County, Dec. 14, 1912, a son of Joseph A. and Jessie Beck Cousins. He married Thelma Johnston June 14, 1937.
A United Methodist clergyman, he was a graduate of Academy High School, Erie, a 1937 graduate of Allegheny College and a 1940 graduate of Drew Theological Seminary, Madison, N.J.
He pastored churches in northwestern Pennsylvania including Blooming Valley, New Castle, Linesville, New Bethlehem, Ridgeway, Warren, Oil City and Girard, retiring in 1978. In his retirement he continued to serve, first at the Mt. Hope-Pine Grove charge and then at the State Road-Teepleville charge. He had served as district superintendent of the Erie-Meadville district of the Western Pennsylvania Conference of the United Methodist Church from 1968 to 1973.
He was honored by his alma mater, Allegheny College, in 1971, with the presentation of doctor of divinity degree. It was stated at that time that he was an effective preacher presenting the gospel in vivid and convincing terms. He was described by his colleagues as a "big man physically, intellectually and spiritually."
His hobbies and interests included hunting, fishing, camping and woodworking, having made several grandfather clocks.
Survivors, in addition to his wife of 63 years, include two daughters, JoAnn Ebbert and her husband, Richard, of Sturgis, Mich., and Janet Lochrane and her husband, Thomas, of Walworth, N.Y.; a son, James A. Cousins of Blooming Valley; six grandchildren, Amy Roan, Scott Ebbert, Allen and Brian Cousins, JoAnn Cedruly and Thomas Lochrane; five great-grandchildren; and two sisters, Neva Chismar of Blooming Valley and Helen Bishop of Hermitage.
He was preceded in death by two sisters, Jessie Berry and Dorothy Cousins; and four brothers, the Rev. William A. Cousins, Joseph Cousins, Richard Cousins and Albert Cousins.
Calling hours are today from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. at Robert W. Waid Funeral Home, 581 Chestnut St., Meadville.
The funeral will be Sunday at 2 p.m. at the funeral home, with the Rev. Tracy Cox, pastor of Blooming Valley United Methodist Church, and the Rev. Herman Roney, retired United Methodist clergyman, officiating.
Burial will be in Blooming Valley Cemetery.
The family suggests memorials be made to Blooming Valley United Methodist Church, 24740 State St., Meadville, Pa. 16335.
