Helen M. Courson
Pittsburgh Pirates fan
Helen Marie Courson 86, of Clubhouse Drive, Washington, formerly of 241 Gabby Avenue, Washington, died Monday, December 8, 1997, in Washington Hospital. Born May 12, 1911, in Washington, she was a daughter of Louis N. and Mary Lynch Vandever. Mrs. Courson was a member of the Faith United Presbyterian Church for 66 years, where she taught Sunday School; graduated from Trinity High School; and was a former employee of Hazel Atlas No. 2 and the Atlas Plant. For 29 years, she was a licensed practical nurse at Hillsview Clinic and Southminster Place, retiring in 1991; was an avid Pittsburgh Pirates fan; and was a member of the Lincoln Chapter Order of the Eastern Star No. 112. On January 31, 1931, in Moutain Lake Park, Md., she married R. Wylie Courson, who survives. Also surviving are two sons, Robert W. Courson II of McMurray and Ray Douglas Courson of Marietta, Ohio; a daughter, H. Marlene Bryant of Carlisle; three sisters, Madlyn V. Bebout, Genevieve V. Wise and Evelyn M. Vandever, all of Washington; eight grandchildren, D. Shawn Bryant, Colin W. Bryant, D. Patrick Bryant, Paige A. Sweeder, Kelle L. Cunningham, Robert W. Courson III, Megan L. Courson and Caleb D. Courson; and three great-granddaughters. A brother, Louis Vandever, is deceased.

Mary C. Danley
Bell Telephone operator
Mary Catherine Danley, 88, of Washington County Health Center, formerly of 45 Hayes Avenue, Washington, died at 1:40 p.m. Tuesday, December 9, 1997, of a lengthy illness. She was born September 6, 1909, in Washington, a daughter of John and Frances Matthews Miklic. Mrs. Danley attended Immaculate Conception schools and was a member of the Immaculate Conception Church of Washington. She was a retired telephone operator for the Bell Telephone Co. On March 6, 1931, she married Ralph M. Danley, who died April 9, 1980. Surviving are two daughters, Mrs. Harry Ullom and Mrs. James Gratz, both of Washington; seven grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren. Deceased are six brothers, Frank, John, Henry, Paul, Herman and William Miklic; three sisters, Rose and Lillian Miklic and Anna Kervin. She was the last of her immediate family.

Dora Francis Hope
Teletype operator for J&L Steel Corp.
Dora Francis Hope, 62, of Venetia, died Tuesday, December 9, 1997, at Mercy Hospital. Mrs. Hope was a teletype operator for J&L Steel Corp. and a member of St. Francis of Assisi Church in Finleyville. She is survived by her husband, Francis "Skip" Hope; two daughters, Beth Hope-Cushey of Monongahela and Heather Hope of Venetia; two grandchildren, Morgan and Paige Cushey; two sisters, Clara Seman and Nancy Hobbins; two brothers, Paul and Lawrence Stiver. Deceased are her parents, Edward and Mercedes Cusick Stiver; one son, Brett Hope; and one daughter, Wendy Hope. Memorial donations can be made to the American Diabetes Association, 300 Penn Center Boulevard, Suite 700, Pittsburgh, PA 15235.

Edith Rometti
Arrangements Incomplete
Edith Rometti, 85, of Bulger, died Tuesday, December 9, 1997, in her home. Arrangements are incomplete and are being handled by Lee and Martin Funeral Home in Burgettstown. A full obituary and death notice will be published in later edition.

Edward Sterling Jr.
Self-employed building contractor
Edward L. Sterling Jr., 55, of Eighty Four, died Tuesday, December 9, 1997, in Allegheny University Medical Centers - Canonsburg, following a brief illness. He was born November 16, 1942, in Indiana, a son of Edward L. Sterling Sr. of Butler and the late Devona Engle Sterling. He was a 1960 graduate of Marion Center High School. He was a member of the Lakeside Baptist Church of McMurray and the Eighty Four Lions club. He was a self-employed building contractor and was the proprietor of Sterling Construction for more than 30 years. Surviving are his wife Leona H. Hummell Sterling, whom he married February 24, 1964, in Marion Center; three sons, Dale Sterling of Cincinnati, Ohio, Mike Sterling of Eighty Four and Scott Sterling of Vestaburg; two daughters, Nancy Weller of Washington and Amy Sterling of California; one sister, Wanda Kuczykowski of Clarksville; one brother, Kenneth Sterling of Brownsville; 11 grandchildren; several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.

John F. Smith
Retired miner from Southview
John F. Smith, 91, of Southview, died Tuesday, December 9, 1997, in his home. He was born February 2, 1906, in Barton, Ohio, a son of Daniel and Marie Litvin Lukasik. Mr. Smith was a retired coal miner and a member of the United Mine Workers of America. He had been a resident of Southview since 1936. He was married to Frances Simpson, who died March 16, 1991. Surviving are four daughters, Evelyn Weese of Chesterland, Ohio, Shirley F. Maga of Southview, Katherine McDowell of Philadelphia and Mary Jane Lupsa of Collings Lake, N.J.; four sons, Walter J. Smith of Houston, Robert F. Lukasik of Philadelphia, Daniel M. Lukasik of Cecil and Joseph R. Smith of Sturgeon; two sisters, Annie Hemming and Catherine Kavosick, both of Akron, Ohio; one brother, Edward Lukasik of Wheeling W. Va.; 26 grandchildren; and 15 great grandchildren. Deceased is one grandson, David Allen Smith.

Pearle P. Spence
Descendant of early Cross Creek family
Pearle Powelson Spence, 88, of Mt. Dora, Fla., died Monday, December 8, 1997, in Mt. Dora. Born October 28, 1909, in Cross Creek, she was a daughter of John M. and Nannie Thompson Powelson. Mrs. Spence was a descendant of one of the early families of Cross Creek. She attended California Normal School for Teachers and taught in both Smith and Mt. Pleasant Townships before moving to Florida. Then on September 7, 1962, she married Robert W. Spence in the Presbyterian Church of Coral Gables, Fla., where she was a member. Mr. Spence survives. Both Mr. and Mrs. Spence were employed in the reservation department of Eastern Airlines in Miami. After their retirement they made their home in Mt. Dora, Fla. Also surviving are two sisters, Ruth Biernesser and Martha Miller, both of Washington. Deceased are two brothers, Ralph H. and Leonard S. Powelson; and three sisters, Helen Findling, Alverda Stewart and Elizabeth Grimm.

Francis Velican
Born in Bentleyville
Francis (Frank) Velican, 59, of Grayslake, Ill., died Monday, December 8, 1997, in Fraderat Hospital, Wisconsin. Born August 9, 1938, in Bentleyville, he was a son of the late Frank and Emma Velican, who were natives of Bentleyville. Mr. Velican was a veteran of the U.S. Air Force and an executive of the Sheraton Hotel in Chicago. Surviving are his wife, Rosalie D'Amico Velican and a daughter, Christine Thomas of Grayslake. Memorial contributions can be made to the Bentleyville Library.

Paul Edwin Welling
Vietnam War vet and farmer
Paul Edwin Welling, 49, of Ward Street, Washington, died at 7:50 p.m. Monday, December 8, 1997, in Washington Hospital. Born November 14, 1948, in Aleppo, he was the son of Paul Wilbur Welling of Polk, Ohio, and Betty Jeanne Miller Welling of Nashville, Tenn. During the Vietnam War he served with the U.S. Marine Corps in Vietnam, receiving the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal, the Vietnam Campaign Medal, the Combat Action Ribbon and the R.V.N. Cross of Gallentry. Mr. Welling was a farmer and worked for William Stewart Family Farms in Washington. On November 14, 1970, he married Georgia "Jody" Faye Alkire, who survives. Also surviving are a son, Rodney L. Welling of Washington; two daughters, Taishea Courtwright of Wind Ridge and Paulie Jo Welling, at home; seven brothers, Bob Welling of Phoenix, Ariz., David Logan of Wind Ridge, Jack Welling of Ohio, Bryan Welling of Taylorstown, Ryan Welling of the state of California, Ronald Welling of Knoxville, Tenn., and Donald Logan of Houston, Texas; a sister, Barbara Fox of Nashville; a stepmother, Jane Welling of Polk; and three grandchildren, Seth and Derrik Courtwright and Elijah Welling.

Stelvio W. Zanolli
W&J professor was practicing attorney
Stelvio W. "Steve" Zanolli, 75, of Washington, died Tuesday, December 9, 1997. He was born February 6, 1922, in Fredericktown, a son of Fortunato and Anna Dalla Santa Zanolli. Mr. Zanolli was a 1939 graduate of East Bethlehem High School and a graduate of Washington and Jefferson College, He received his master's and law degree from the University of Pittsburgh. He enlisted in the U. S. Army Reserve Corps in 1942, serving overseas as a commissioned second lieutenant in Company D, 276 Infantry Regiment, 70th Infantry Division and in Company M, 310 Infantry Regiment, 78th Infantry Division. He received many medals in recognition of his distinguished service including a Purple Heart with two oak leaf clusters, Bronze Star with oak leaf clusters, the African-European Theater Medal for his participation in the Ardennes Alsace, Rhineland and Central Europe campaigns, American Theatre Defense Medal, German Occupation Medal, Victory Medal along with several French and Belgian medals. He was employed as an industrial relations executive and was an attorney for Island Creek Coal Co., U.S. Steel, Bituminous Coal Operators Association and Kaiser Industries and Kaiser Steel Corp. He also had a private practice. When Mr. Zanolli retired from law practice he became a professor at Washington and Jefferson College. From 1984 until his death he served as adjunct professor in economics and business and took an active role at the college, serving as a member of the W&J Old Guard, honorary sponsor of the varsity football team, counselor to many students, member of the American, Pennsylvania and Washington County bar associations, Disabled American Veterans Association and the American Legion Post 175. On November 8, 1947, he married Lenora Paler at St. Michael's Church in Fredericktown, who survives. Surviving, in addition to his wife, are two sons, William Zanolli of Donora and Michael Zanolli of Pittsburgh; three daughters, Jane Lowell of Gray, Maine, Ann Lettin of Lake Oswego, Ore., and Mary Natkin of Lexington, Va.; 11 grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; two brothers, Louis Zanolli of Bellevue, Neb., and F. Patrick Zanolli of Masury, Ohio; and a sister, Dorothy Hughes of Jefferson.

Wallace Carroll
Lifelong member of St. Benedict the Abbot Church
Wallace Carroll, 68, of McMurray, died Tuesday, December 9, 1997, in his home. He was a member of St. Benedict the Abbot Church in McMurray. Surviving are his wife, Elizabeth Florian Carroll; four sons, David of New Castle, Colo., Gregory of Venetia, Mark of Pittsburgh and Jeffrey of Peters Township; four daughters, Melinda Guritz of Salinas, Calif., Jeanne Downing of Mt. Lebanon, Diane Hemmo of Upper St. Clair and Nancy Lammie of Bethel Park; 18 grandchildren; two brothers, Ralph and Kenneth Bafinski and one sister, Gloria Bostaph.

Michael P. Fiala
Retired coal miner and veteran of WW II
Michael Paul Fiala, 83, of Dilliner, died Sunday, November 9, 1997, at his home. He was born December 13, 1913, in Shoaf, a son of Michael and Mary Klonga Fiala. He was a member of Holy Family Church, Greensboro. Until his retirement, Mr. Fiala had worked as a coal miner for Duquesne Light Co. and was a member of UMWA Local 6310. He was a veteran of World War II and had served in the Pacific Theater. Mr. Fiala was also a member of VFW Post 6303, Greensboro, and the Slovak Catholic Sokal Lodge. Surviving is his wife, Mary Kuis Fiala. Also surviving are four children, Janet Mangiacarne of Uniontown, Connie Wallace of Mt. Morris, Marlene Warren of Spartansburg, S.C., and Michael Fiala of Uniontown; six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren; one brother, Paul Fiala, Greensboro; and two sisters, Rose McManis of Greensboro and Mary Matyk of Rices Landing. Deceased are two sisters, Josephine Boggio and Ann Kois.

Evelyn J. Harvey
Member of First Baptist Church of Pitt Gas
Evelyn Jones Harvey, 74, of Clarksville, died Saturday, November 8, 1997, in Uniontown Hospital. She was born April 18, 1923, in Monongahela, a daughter of James and Luvenia Carrington Jones. Mrs. Harvey was a retired house parent with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and was a member of First Baptist Church of Pitt Gas. Her husband, Samuel L. Harvey, survives. Also surviving are two sons, Robert and Charles Broadus, both of Kokomo, Ind.; one stepson, Dewayne Holbrook of Chicago, Ill.; two stepdaughters, Beverly Grooms of Detroit, Mich., and Emaline Erwin of California, Pa.; 23 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. Deceased are one brother, Thornton Jones, and one sister, Martha West.

Denis A. Meighen
Former employee of National Annealing Box Co.
Denis Albert Meighen, 77, of Graham Avenue, Washington, died Saturday, November 8, 1997, in Humbert Lane Health Care Center, Washington, following a one-year illness. He was born October 15, 1920, in Pine Bank, a son of John W. and Jane Gunn Meighen. Mr. Meighen was employed at National Annealing Box Co. in the welding and maintenance departments. He was a member of Immaculate Conception Church and a member of South Franklin Fire Department. Mr. Meighen attended Greene County schools and later attended Allegheny Technical Institute, where he studied radio and television. He served with the US Navy during World War II. On September 24, 1940, he married Mary T. Crouse, who survives. Also surviving are two sons, Denis T. Meighen of Washington and Gary W. Meighen of Latrobe; one daughter, Teresa Harper of Pittsburgh; one sister, Virginia Wachter of Doylestown; eight grandchildren, Eve, Wendy, Patrick and Benjamin Meighen, Beth Rager, Gary J. and Cindy Meighen and Christine Harper; and five great-grandchildren. Deceased are three grandchildren, Dale, Daren and Gregory Meighen; one sister, Betty Jelenski; and two brothers, Joseph Meighen and the Rev. John W. Meighen.

Austie R. Aston
Member of Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints
Austie R. Aston, 89, of McClane Farm Road, Washington, died Thursday, October 9, 1997, in Kade Nursing Home, Washington. She was born on June 26, 1908, in Houston, a daughter of Charles and Margaret Tolley McCracken. Mrs. Aston was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, Washington, and was a homemaker. On February 14, 1930, she married Clyde Aston, who survives. Also surviving are a son, Clyde Aston Jr. of Jacksonville, Fla.; three granddaughters, Diana Courtright, Linda Coleman and Jeannie Venstra; and a sister, Violet Poole. Deceased are a sister, Mary Shanks; and two brothers, Charles McCracken and Merwyn McCracken.

Clotilde Kratz
Former Mt. Lebanon resident was WHS grad
Clotilde Kratz, 98, of Minneapolis, Minn., and formerly of Mt. Lebanon, died Sunday, November 9, 1997, in St. Anthony Health Center, Minneapolis. She was born September 22, 1899, a daughter of Otto and Clotilde Sittler Hundertmark. Mrs. Kratz was a member of United Presbyterian Church and was a homemaker. She graduated from Washington High School in 1920. On March 18, 1926, she married John S. Kratz Sr., who died April 3, 1983. Surviving are two sons, John S. Kratz Jr., of Troy, Mich., and Leonard F. Kratz of Redondo Beach, Calif.; two brothers, Paul E. Hundertmark of Waynesburg and William Hundertmark of Washington; three sisters, Louise Gibala of Long Island, N.Y., Esther Davis of Washington and Ruth Mintun of Reno, Nev.; five grandchildren, John L. Kratz, Leslie Ann Backlund, Susan Zachman, Sharon and Beth Kratz; and five great-grandchildren. Deceased are three brothers, John Louis, Helmuth and Otto Hundertmark; three sisters, Johanna Dechert, Helena McGhie and Pauline Endres.

Andrew C. Cherup
Wards Bakery salesman
Andrew Carl Cherup, 78, of Uniontown, died Thursday, December 11, 1997, in Laurel Health Care Center. He was born November 4, 1919, in Fredericktown, a son of Michael and Elizabeth Gabler Cherup. Mr. Cherup was a salesman for Wards Bakery for 40 years and Stroehmann Bakery for 10 years, and also worked at the Green Garden Miniature Golf in Hopwood. He was a graduate of East Bethlehem High School. Surviving is his wife of 49 years, Beverly Reed Cherup; one brother, Dr. David Cherup of Bethel Park; two sisters, Mary Zibrida of Fredericktown and Marge Williamson of Yuma, Ariz. Deceased are two brothers, Michael and Frank Cherup; and a sister, Anne Hayes.

Dolores A. Chobany
Employed in retail at Franklin Mall
Dolores A. Chobany, 61, of Washington, formerly of Somerset County, died Wednesday, December 10, 1997, in her home. She was born December 30, 1935, in McClellandtown, a daughter of John and Anna Sinko Kipila. Mrs. Chobany was a graduate of German Township High School. She was employed at The Limited at the Franklin Mall. On November 1, 1958, in New Salem, she married John Chobany, who survives. Also surviving are four sons, John Chobany of Reston, Va., Rodney Chobany of Maui, Hawaii, Matthew Chobany of Washington and Alexander Chobany of Baltimore, Md.; two daughters, Deborah Chobany of Barnwell, S.C., and Tamara Suwak of Pittsburgh; one sister, Eleanor Yuras of Masontown; three grandchildren, Anastasia Chobany, Christian Kanoa Chobany and Melia Chobany; and several nieces and nephews.

Frank R. Clutter
Dairy farmer and former Jessop employee
Frank Raymond Clutter, 89, of Nineveh, died at 2:30 p.m. Thursday, December 11, 1997, in Rolling Meadows Nursing Home, Waynesburg, after a brief illness. He was born December 17, 1907, in Richhill Township, a son of John Newton and Berta Mae Clutter Clutter. He lived in Morris Township, Greene County, for more than 25 years and lived in Nineveh from 1970 until moving to Waynesburg in 1993. He returned to Nineveh in November 1997. Mr. Clutter was a member of Union Valley United Methodist Church. He was a former employee of Jessop Steel Co., Oakdale Boys Home in Morris Township and prior to his retirement, he operated a dairy farm in Morris Township for more than 25 years. Surviving are his wife, Della Margaret Ealy Clutter, whom he married April 5, 1932; one daughter, Lois Moore of Nineveh, with whom he made his home; one son, Stoy Clutter of Waynesburg; one sister, Goldie Clutter of Graysville; one brother, Havel Clutter of Claysville; four grandchildren, Peggy Ewing, Randy Moore, Larry Moore and Carol Kerr; and nine great-grandchildren. Deceased are four brothers, Lester, Orvis, Willis and Wilbert Clutter; and three sisters, Zella Moffitt, Clarice Rush and Verna Davis.

Catherine C. Harris
Retired railroad worker
Catherine C. "Kate" Harris, 78, of Prosperity, died Thursday December 11, 1997, at her home. She was born May 17, 1919, in Elco, a daughter of William and Anna Collins. She was retired from P&LE Railroad. She was a member of Immaculate Conception Church in Washington, and a member of the McGuffey Senior Citizens and auxiliary volunteer at Washington Hospital. Surviving are one daughter, Kathleen Harris of Prosperity; one brother, William Collins of California; and several nieces and nephews. A Mass of Remembrance will be celebrated at Immaculate Conception Church in Washington at 6 p.m. Monday, December 15, 1997.

Joseph M. Holzer
Baldwin resident
Joseph M. Holzer, 93, of Baldwin Borough, died Thursday, December 11, 1997. He was born November 12, 1904, in Pittsburgh, a son of John and Mary Gloeckl Holzer. He was married to Margaret Bronder Holzer. Surviving are two sons, Richard J. and Joseph P Holzer both of Pittsburgh; a daughter, Nancy M. Moore of Houston; five grandchildren, Richard Holzer, Raymond Holzer, Matthew, David and Megan Moore; five great-grandchildren; two brothers, Lawrence and Charles Holzer of Pittsburgh; a sister, Betty Staudinger of Pittsburgh. Deceased are two sisters, Ester Magadof and Marie Berger; and four brothers, John, Alex, Richard and Clarence Holzer.

Estelle Howard
Word has been received of the death of Estelle Howard, 67, of Summersville, W.Va., who died December 3, 1997, at her home. She was born October 31, 1930, in Richmond, Va., a daughter of the late Fred and Clara Davis Childress. Surviving are her husband, H. Wayne Howard; a son, H. Wayne "Tom" Howard Jr. of Cecil; a daughter, Deborah E. Hale of Roanoke, Va.; a sister, Vernelle Condrey of Powhatan, Va.; three grandsons, Stephen Howard, David Hale Jr. and Joshua Hale; and a granddaughter, Stacy Howard. Services were held December 7 in the Clark Chapel of Bauer Funeral Home, Elderton, Armstrong County. Interment in the Elderton Cemetery.

Blanche L. Phillians
Clerked at Kaufmann's and post office
Blanche Louise Shipley Phillians, 85, of Clarksville, died Thursday, December 11, 1997, in Monongahela Valley Hospital following a brief illness. She was born December 12, 1911, in Blainesburg, a daughter of Howard Francis and Annabell Ferguson Shipley. She was a graduate of Brownsville High School and spent her early years in the Brownsville area where she worked as a clerk at Kaufmann's and was once employed as a clerk at the Millsboro Post Office. Mrs. Phillips lived in Clarksville since 1956 and also lived for four years in Bentleyville. She was a member of Hewitt Presbyterian Church of Rices Landing, the Order of the Amaranths in Brownsville and the former Millsboro Women's Civic Club. She enjoyed sewing and baking bread. On June 11, 1938, in Hagerstown, Md., she married George H. Phillians, who died March 3, 1980. Surviving are a daughter, Roberta Lee Ross of Clarksville, with whom she made her home; four granddaughters, Randi Ross Marodi, Kelly, Morgan and Taylor Ross; one great-granddaughter, Abigail Marodi; and three nieces. Deceased are two sisters, Trissa Shipley Rodgers and Mildred Shipley Virgin; and an infant brother.

Elizabeth K. Ruscello
Inducted into county Sports Hall of Fame
Elizabeth K. Ruscello, 75, of Washington, died Wednesday, December 10, 1997, at Washington Hospital following a lengthy illness. She was born May 17, 1922, in Pittsburgh, a daughter of Thomas and Mary Yurisek Mrkvar. Mrs. Ruscello was a member of Immaculate Conception Church. She was a homemaker and enjoyed flower gardening. She was on the championship basketball team for Trinity High School from 1938 to 1939 and was inducted into the Washington County Sports Hall of Fame. On March 12, 1943, she married Ralph J. Ruscello, who survives. Also surviving are one son, Dennis M. Ruscello of Morgantown, W.Va.; four sisters, Ann McCollum of Washington, Helen Mrkvar of Washington, Mitzie Piatt of Lone Pine and Theresa Sumincic of the state of California.; three grandchildren, Scott, Craig, Mark Ruscello; several nieces and nephews.

Frank J. Spina
Forbes Steel foreman was Army veteran
Frank J. "Teck" Spina, 70, of 331 North Main Street, Houston, died at 11:37 p.m. Wednesday, December 10, 1997, in Allegheny University Medical Centers-Canonsburg. He was born November 16, 1927, in Houston, a son of Paul and Julie Mascaro Spina. Mr. Spina had lived most of his life in Houston where he was a member of the American Legion Post 902. He served with the U.S. Army and prior to his retirement in 1990, he had been employed as a foreman at the former Forbes Steel Corp. He was a member of St. Patrick Roman Catholic Parish in Canonsburg. On September 12, 1953, he married Pat Skiles, who survives. Also surviving are one daughter, Paula Pagliai, of McDonald; and several nieces and nephews. Deceased is a sister, Catherine Chimento.

Byron D. Staley
Korean War veteran
Byron D. Staley, 64, of Washington, died Thursday, December 11, 1997, at his home. He was born October 18, 1933, in Centerville, a son of Myrtle E. Wheeler Staley of Washington and the late Byron E. Staley. Mr. Staley was a 1951 graduate of Centerville High School. He had served with the U. S. Army from 1952 to 1954 during the Korean War. Mr. Staley had been employed by Black Top Paving Co. and later by Victor Paving Co. for many years. He was a member of Davidson Methodist Church in Glyde, Sunset Lodge 623, F&AM of Washington, the Valley of Coudersport and the American Legion Post 175 in Washington. On July 14, 1957, he married Jane Hathaway, who survives. Also surviving are three daughters, Kim Longdon, Jennifer Aloia and Rachel Scott, all of Washington; one sister, Patricia Bush of Ohio; three grandchildren, Wesley and Travis Longdon and Hannah Aloia; and several nieces and nephews.

Harriett Vetcher
Former Washington resident enjoyed traveling
Harriett Vetcher, 69, of West Palm Beach Fla., died Wednesday, December 10, 1997, at the John F. Kennedy Medical Center in Atlantis, Fla. She was born April 13, 1928, in Washington, a daughter of John and Clara Church Johnston. She was a graduate of East Washington High School. Her husband, Peter A. Vetcher of West Palm Beach, was a member of the original Darby's Rangers. During his 38-year military career, she lived in different places. While living in Japan in the 1950s, she worked in security at the American Embassy. She was an avid golfer and enjoyed traveling with her brother. Surviving, in addition to her husband, are a brother, retired Air Force Col. John D. Johnston of Vienna, Va.; two aunts, Jeanette Gillogly of Waynesburg and Mary D. Johnston of Washington; and several cousins.

Corola E. McCollough
Ohio woman owned beauty shop and market
Corola E. McCollough, 81, of Carmichaels Arbors, Carmichaels, died at 9:31 a.m. Tuesday, November 11, 1997, in Pratt's Nursing Home, Carmichaels. She was born August 31, 1916, in Wellsville, Ohio, a daughter of Okay and Dova Louise Keenen Hudson. Mrs. McCollough was a beautician in her own shops and had co-owned McCollough's Market in Salineville, Ohio. She had also worked in Salem Hospital credit department and as a bookkeeper at Wellsville Bank. She had rented and remodeled several homes in the Salineville area. Mrs. McCollough was worthy high priestess-Supreme White Shrine of Jerusalem Sojourner of Wellsville, Shrine 21, Wellsville, Ohio; worthy matron Betsy Ross Chapter 464 Eastern Star, Salineville; was a member of Youngstown Beauty Academy and Mt. Vernon Beauty Academy; a Sunday school teacher and deaconess at Bethesdia Presbyterian Church, Millport, Ohio; president of the Parent Teacher Association of Franklin Local School; president of the Women's Civic Club; a 4-H leader, all in Summitville, Ohio; and active in bridge clubs in Summitville and Ocala, Fla., and I.E.S. Chapter 29 in Ocala. Surviving are a daughter, Deborah C. Reynolds of Carmichaels; two grandchildren, Michael Reynolds and Amy Clovis; and a brother, Hilbert Hudson of Ocala.

Kathryn A. Keener
Member of America Legion Post 907 ladies auxiliary
Kathryn Agnes McDonald Keener, 83, of Claysville (Buffalo Township), died Saturday, October 11, 1997, in Washington County Health Center, following a lengthy illness. She was born July 22, 1914, in Amity, a daughter of Vada McDonald. She was raised by her maternal grandparents, Daniel and Sarah McDonald. Mrs. Keener attended Mt. Hermon Baptist Church and was a 1933 graduate of Morris Township High School. She was a member of the ladies auxiliary of American Legion Post 907, Taylorstown; Washington Senior Citizens Center; and the Tops Club, West Alexander. Mrs. Keener was a homemaker who enjoyed gardening, playing bingo, visiting covered bridges, listening to country music and taking train rides. On November 5, 1960, in United Presbyterian Church, Claysville, she married Robert Keener, who survives. She previously was married to Walter Morris, who died September 22, 1977. Also surviving are three sons, Walter Morris of Claysville, Donald Morris of Rancho Cucomonga, Calif., and Gary Keener of Avella; four daughters, Ethel Klages of Taylorstown, Patricia Kiskadden of Washington, Katy Walton of Pleasant Grove and Becky Hancher of West Alexander; three brothers, Kenneth Loar of St. Albans, W.Va., Jim Loar of Cleveland, Ohio, and Danny Chew of Brownsville; two sisters, Sarah Fodor of Imperial and Thelma Lou McLaurin of Detroit, Mich.; an aunt, Louise Sowers of Amity; 20 grandchildren; 29 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. Deceased are a son, Edward Morris; a brother, Melvin Loar; and a sister, Jean Carroll.

Bernard John Henrich
Formerly of West Finley
Bernard John Henrich Sr., 78, of Pittsburgh, formerly of West Finley, died Tuesday, August 12, 1997, in Mercy Hospital, Pittsburgh. He was born on July 4, 1919, in Pittsburgh, a son of John I. and Mary Dithron Henrich. Surviving are his wife, Colette "Kitty" Kimble Henrich; a son, Bernard J. Henrich Jr. of Valley Grove, W.Va.; four daughters, Joan Vickers of Chicago, Ill., Nancy Leonard of Florida, Sandra Beck of West Finley and Edna "Pixie" Henrich of Pittsburgh; two brothers, Joseph Henrich of Pittsburgh and Edmund Henrich of Buffalo, N.Y.; two sisters, Mary Campert of Pittsburgh and Eleanor Walters of Pittsburgh; 12 grandchildren; and 13 great-grandchildren. The funeral was held at the convience of the family and a memorial service will be announced at a later date.

David L. McVay
Worked as landscaper
David L. McVay, 57, of West Lincoln Street, Waynesburg, died at 4 a.m. Tuesday, August 12, 1997, in Greene County Memorial Hospital, following a lengthy illness. He was born April 8, 1940, in Waynesburg, a son of Edna Jane Dillie Bane of Waynesburg and the late James McVay. Mr. McVay lived his entire life in Waynesburg. He was a landscaper for Dr. Carl Walker in Waynesburg for 15 years. Mr. McVay was a member of the James Farrell American Legion Post No. 330 and the Disabled American Veterans Post No. 123, both of Waynesburg. He is survived, in addition to his mother, by his wife, Joan Morse McVay; two sisters, Carolyn Wilson of Woods and Judy Hopkins of New Britain; two stepbrothers, George R. Bane of Jefferson and Fred V. Bane of Waynesburg; and several nieces and nephews.

Cecil Jones Jr.
1979 Wash High graduate
Cecil Jones Jr., 36, of Washington, died Wednesday, November 12, 1997, at home following a lengthy illness. He was born August 11, 1961, in Washington, a son of Cecil and Janice Dilliard Jones of Washington. Mr. Jones was a graduate of Washington High School class of 1979. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army and was formerly employed by Union Electric Steel of Carnegie. Surviving, in addition to his parents, are a son, Cecil Jones III at home; two sisters, Toi Jones and Michelle Shelly Jones, both of Canonsburg; his maternal grandmother, Waunita Johns of Washington; and several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins. Deceased are his maternal grandfather, Ellsworth Dilliard; and fraternal grandparents, Willa B. Watson and Jordan Jones.

Charles Bedilliore
Florida man was originally from Washington
Word has been received of the death of Charles Keith Bedilliore, 75, of Orlando, Fla., who died Tuesday, December 2, 1997, in Orlando Hospital. He was born July 7, 1922, in Washington, a son of Golie and Myrtle Bedilliore. He graduated from East Washington High School in 1940 and played football and basketball. Mr. Bedilliore was Protestant. He enlisted in the Navy in 1942 and served in the South Pacific Discharge in 1945. In 1955 he enlisted in the Air Force, retiring as a sergeant. He moved to central Florida in 1968. Surviving are his wife, Angelina; a son, Carlos; a daughter, Mary and one granddaughter, all of Florida; a sister, Helen Day of Washington; a brother, Donald of Claysville; two nieces and seven nephews. He was buried in the National Cemetery in Bushell, Fla., December 4, 1997.

Leo E. Elikan
Made armament during war at Bridgeville factory
Leo E. Elikan, 88, of Monroeville and formerly of Carnegie and Washington, died Thursday, December 11, 1997, in Albany, Ga. He was born June 8, 1909, in Bellaire, Ohio, a son of Emil and Leona Bloch Elikan. Mr. Elikan was employed by Flannery Bolt in Bridgeville as a machinist making armament during World War II. Following the war he worked for B&O Railroad in the machine shop, retiring in 1974 after 30 years of employment. Mr. Elikan was a member of Temple David in Monroeville and was an active member and past master of Centennial Lodge No. 544 F&AM, Carnegie. Surviving are one sister, Sophia Deutschberger of Athens, Ga.; four sons, Leonard of Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla., Ralph of Albany, Ga., Edward of Crafton and Martin of Pittsburgh; a stepson, Irwin Engle of Monroeville; a stepdaughter, Rhoda Dorfzann of Pittsburgh; 10 grandchildren; two stepgrandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. Deceased are his two wives, Laura Mae Cohen and Yetta Cohen Engle.

Roger Carl Hogbin
Vietnam vet was painter for General Motors
Roger Carl Hogbin, 52, of 921 Stewart Road, Salem, Ohio, died Tuesday, December 9, 1997. He was born April 12, 1945, in Romney, W.Va., son of the late Carl and Katharine McBride Hogbin. Mr. Hogbin was a painter for General Motors in Lordstown, Ohio. He was also a life member of the Salem VFW Post 892, Salem AM VETS Post 45, the Salem Italian American Club, the Salem Slovak Club, the Salem Eagles 316, Leetonia American Legion Post 131, the 40&8 Voiture Columbiana Locale No. 273, the Salem Heritage Club and the American Bowling Congress. He served in the Vietnam War in the Marine Corps from 1967 through 1969. Surviving are a daughter, Beth Gibson of Fairfield, Calif.; a sister, Shirley Mueller of Canonsburg; and one grandchild.

Joseph N. Sklinchar
Former Cokeburg resident in Navy for 20 years
Word has been received of the death of Joseph N. Sklinchar, 75, of Oakland, Calif., formerly of Cokeburg, who died Saturday, December 6, 1997, at the Summitt Medical Center in Oakland. He was born December 8, 1921, in Cokeburg, the son of Michael and Anna Tomasula Sklinchar. Mr. Sklinchar served his country for 20 years in the United States Navy. He fought in both World War II and the Korean conflict. In his spare time he enjoyed fishing and crossword puzzles. On June 27, 1964, he married Ardeth Boughton, who survives. Also surviving are one son, Jarel and one daughter, Jena, both of Kennebuck, Wash; a sister, Ann Dranzo of Cokeburg; and two granddaughters. Deceased are two brothers, Michael and George; two sisters, Mary Prosnak and Sue Rosena; and his first wife, Elsie Sklinchar. Private services were held in California.

Loretta P. Witosky
Erie homemaker was formerly of Canonsburg
Loretta Popiolkowski Witosky, 87, of Erie, died Friday, December 12, 1997. She was born November 20, 1910. Mrs. Witoski was a homemaker who previously lived in Canonsburg. Surviving are her husband, Charles "Chick" Witosky; three sons, Bernard, Edward and Donald; a sister, Alfreda D'Amico of Canonsburg; a brother, Louis of Houston; 12 grandchildren; six nephews and four nieces. Deceased are three brothers, Leo, Edward and Jerome; and two sisters, Agnes and Rose.

Frank P. Andredas
Ellsworth miner was decorated in World War II
Frank P. Andredas, 77, of Scenery Hill, died at 12:10 p.m. Friday, December 12, 1997, at Humbert Lane Personal Care Home, Washington. Mr. Andredas was born July 8, 1920, the son of Frank and Anna Gavalier Adredas. Mr. Andredas retired from Bethlehem Mines Corp. where he worked in Mine 51 in Ellsworth. He also served in the U.S. Army during World War II from July 20, 1942, to December 22, 1945. He served in the European Theater in the war and received the Bronze Star. Mr. Andredas belonged to several groups, including United Mine Workers Local 1197 and St. Clements Church in Ellsworth (Ave Maria Parish). On April 10, 1948, he married Sophia Cyanovich, who survives. Also surviving are one daughter, Kathleen McGee of Marlinton, W.Va.; two sons, Paul and Mark Andredas, both of Scenery Hill; a sister, Helen Lancy of Dayton, Ohio; and two grandchildren. Deceased are two sisters, Margaret Shepherd and Ann Verosko.

Betty W.B. Minech
Hostess at Pioneer Grill
Betty Watson Braden Minech, 82, of Hickory, died at 7:22 p.m. Friday, December 12, 1997, in Kade Nursing Home, following a lengthy illness. She was born November 29, 1915, in Washington, a daughter of Lon and Sylvia Boyce Watson. Mrs. Minech was a member of First Christian Church of Washington and was a January 1935 graduate of Washington High School. She had been employed at Pioneer Grill in the George Washington Hotel as hostess and as a secretary for Andy Brothers. She was married twice. She first married Gilbert Braden, and in February 1961, she married Jack Minech, who died in August 1980. Surviving are a daughter, Linda Braden Carlisle of Hickory, with whom she made her home; a brother, Walter Watson of Washington; four grandchildren, James Carlisle Jr., Lisa Duhig, and Matthew and Steven Carlisle; and six great-grandchildren. Deceased is a brother, Frank Watson.

Charles Valentino
Arizona man born in Washington
Charles "Chuck" Valentino, 60, of Phoenix, Ariz., died Friday, November 28, 1997. He was born in Washington, the son of the late Charles and Caroline Jutca Valentino. Mr. Valentino, a painter, served in the National Guard. Surviving are his wife, Kathy; two sons, Peter Joseph Valentino and Charles R. Valnetino Jr.; three daughters, Lynn Ann Throckmorton, Corbie Kuntz and Jill Renee Valentino; a stepdaughter, Kerrie Lee; a stepson, Jeffrey Holland; three sisters, Frances Vitteck, Delores Youngquist and Betty Vucic; a brother, Stush Valentino; and seven grandchildren.

Mary B. Ward
Homemaker was member of Holy Trinity Church
Mary B. Ward, 84, of West Wylie Avenue, Washington, died Friday, December 12, 1997, at Washington Hospital after a lengthy illness. She was born January 26, 1913, in Washington, a daughter of Julian and Karoline Yaros Bredniak. Mrs. Ward was a homemaker and a member of the Holy Trinity National Catholic Church. On October 27, 1928, she married Thomas Ward who died May 24, 1990. Surviving are one son, Bernard "Bird-eye" T. Ward of Washington; one daughter, Jane Fedis of Washington; four sisters, Rose Rakoskie of Glendale, W.Va., Viola Pawich of Sacramento, Calif., Joann Zullo and Wanda Pasierbek, both of Washington; five grandchildren, Robin Gesuale, Terrie Georgalas, Jody Aloia, Lori Ward and Christy Berry; eight great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. Deceased is one brother, Delfine Bredniak; and one sister, Mildred Krofcheck.

James Francis Brooks
Retired from U.S. Steel
James Francis Brooks, 74, of Clairton, died Tuesday, November 11, 1997, at Jefferson Hospital. He was born August 3, 1923, in Glassport, son of Ernest and Birtie Lee Newman Brooks. Mr. Brooks was a staff member of Newman-Winston Memorial Chapel in McKeesport. He was retired from U.S. Steel, Christy Park Works, McKeesport. He was married to Mary Elizabeth Harper Brooks, who survives. Also surviving are a son, Ronald Brooks of Detroit, Mich.; four grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; a sister, Marguerite Catlin of Washington; two brothers, Calvin Brooks of McKeesport and Charles Brooks of Philadelphia; and several nieces and nephews. Deceased is his oldest son, James Brooks Jr., who was killed in the Vietnam War.

Anne B. Ferguson
Volunteered for KDKA, Pa. Bar Association
Anne B. Gallagher Ferguson, 68, of Peters Township, died Monday, October 13, 1997, at home. She was born July 11, 1929, in Bayonne, N.J., a daughter of Bernard and Marjorie Duffy Gallagher. Mrs. Ferguson was a longtime volunteer for KDKA Call for Action, served on the judicial selection committee for the Pennsylvania Bar Association, and was a consumer arbitrator for consumer complaints for Chrysler Corp. She was active with St. Paul of the Cross Monastery, South Side, Pittsburgh. Surviving are her husband, Dr. Donald G. Ferguson; two sisters, Maureen O'Halloran and Marjorie Incognito, both of Bayonne, N.J.; a brother, Donald T. Gallagher of Columbus, Ohio; and several nieces and nephews.

Viola M. Sicher
Peters resident born in Austria in 1906
Viola M. Sicher, 91, of Peters Township, formerly of Upper St. Clair, died Sunday, October 12, 1997, at the home of her daughter, Daria. She was born January 30, 1906, in Austria, a daughter of Mansueto and Chiarina Pilati Marinconz. Surviving are two sons, Dr. Bruno Sicher of Kane and Dr. Ermo Sicher of Elizabethtown; four daughters, Clara Hegedus of Bethel Park, Anna Orr of Altoona, Daria Hofbauer and Nancy McKenna, both of Peters Township; 23 grandchildren and 38 great-grandchildren.

Charles K. Bedillion
Played football, basketball at East Washington High
Word has been received of the death of Charles Keith Bedillion, 75, of Orlando, Fla., who died Tuesday, December 2, 1997, in Orlando Hospital. He was born July 7, 1922, in Washington, a son of Golie and Myrtle Bedillion. He moved to central Florida in 1968. Mr. Bedillion graduated in 1940 from East Washington High School, where he played football and basketball. He enlisted in the Navy in 1942, serving in the South Pacific, and was discharged in 1945. In 1955, he enlisted in the Air Force, retiring as a sergeant. Mr. Bedillion was Protestant. Surviving are his wife, Angelina; a son, Carlos; a daughter, Mary; and one granddaughter, all of Florida; a sister, Helen Day of Washington; a brother, Donald of Claysville; and two nieces and seven nephews. Mr. Bedillion was buried December 4, 1997, in the National Cemetery in Bushell, Fla.

Homer D. Bennett
Owned bus-taxi service, restaurants
Homer D. "Push" Bennett, 91, of 361 Thrush Drive, Gilbertsville, formerly of Clarksville, died at 10:20 a.m. Sunday, December 14, 1997, in Pottstown Memorial Medical Center, Pottstown. He was born October 6, 1906, in Clarksville, a son of Clyde A. and Minerva J. Bane Bennett. Mr. Bennett was a member of Pine Bank United Methodist Church. He was a retired miner from Gateway Coal Co. and was a member of the former Chartiers Local UMWA. In the 1930s and '40s, he and his wife owned and operated the Bennett Bus and Taxi Service in Clarksville and in the 1940s operated restaurants in Clarksville and Beallsville. His wife, Helen D. Bennett, died November 18, 1994. Surviving are a daughter, Ruth Battistoni of Gilbertsville, with whom he resided.; two grandsons, Richard of Boyertown and Ronald Battistoni of Lansdale; two great-grandchildren, Tyler Anthony Battistoni and Christina Arlene Battistoni; a sister, Jane Lawrence of Clarksville; and many nieces and nephews. Deceased are five brothers, Lesley, James, Clyde, Howard and Carl Bennett; and two sisters, Jessie Bennett Little and Alice Bennett Hepner.

Jesse C. Buchanan
Clarksville man retired from Gateway Coal
Jesse C. Buchanan, 75, of Pitt Gas, Clarksville, died Friday, December 12, 1997, in Washington Hospital. He was born January 3, 1922, in Coxton, Ky., a son of Clyde Buchanan and Florence Wade Buchanan Cooper. Mr. Buchanan was employed by U.S. Steel Clairton Works and J&L Steel of Pittsburgh, and retired from Gateway Coal Co. He was a member of Local Union 6330 and was a World War II veteran of the U.S. Army. Surviving are his wife of 55 years, Edith Moore Buchanan; two daughters, Florence M. Buchanan of Monroe, Mich., and Beverly C. Simmons of Pittsburgh; a son, Vernon C. Buchanan, at home; two grandchildren, Nicole R. Cyrus and Antonio J. Cyrus; and several aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews. Deceased, in addition to his parents, are his stepfather, Amos Cooper; and a daughter, the Rev. Audrey C. Cyrus.

Meghan C. Canterna
1991 Trinity grad owned Strive Fitness Center
Meghan Christine Canterna, 24, of Airport Road, Washington, died at 5:25 a.m. Sunday, December 14, 1997, from injuries received in an auto accident. She was born November 15, 1973, in Washington, a daughter of Anthony C. and Patricia J. Coleman Canterna of Washington. Miss Canterna was a member of Immaculate Conception Church, Washington, a 1991 graduate of Trinity High School and a 1995 graduate of Ohio University in Athens, Ohio. She enjoyed all sports and was the owner of Strive Fitness and Health Center in Canonsburg. Surviving, in addition to her parents, are a brother, T. C. Canterna, a student at Dennison University, Granville, Ohio; four sisters, Tracey DeBoer, Kiersten Canterna and Courtney Canterna, all of Washington, and Darrilyn Canterna, a student at Mercyhurst College, Erie; maternal grandmother, Pearl Barbour Horne of Houston; maternal grandfather and stepgrandmother, Harry and Hope Coleman of Florida; paternal grandfather, Albert J. Canterna of Clairton; several aunts, uncles and a nephew. Deceased are paternal grandmother, Theresa Coriale Canterna; and an uncle, Chuck Coleman.

Emilio Cuervo
Cecil man retired from Social Security service
Emilio "Chad" Cuervo, 71, of Cecil, died Saturday, December 13, 1997, in West Penn Hospital, Pittsburgh. He was born October 16, 1926, in Langeloth, a son of Manuel A. and Jesusa Rodriquez Cuervo. He was a graduate of Manhattan College, New York. Mr. Cuervo served with the U.S. Air Force in the South Pacific and Vietnam and Europe and retired with the rank of master sergeant after 20 years of service. He retired from civil service having worked for the Social Security service as a claims representative. Mr. Cuervo was a member of the Church of Christ of Coraopolis and the VFW of Burgettstown. On September 24, 1971, he married Norene Finney, who survives. Also surviving are a stepson, Stan Diamond of Florida; and a stepdaughter, Vicki Diamond of Spain; six grandchildren; a sister, Predad Monaco of Cecil; and three nephews.

John D'Amico
Longtime resident of Canonsburg born in Italy
John D'Amico, 92, of Canonsburg, died Sunday, December 14, 1997, in South Hills Convalescent Center. He was born December 9, 1905, in Quadri Provenzia di Chieti, Italy, a son of Vincent and Sabia Detorri D'Amico. Mr. D'Amico lived in Canonsburg since 1920, where he was a member of St. Patrick Roman Catholic Church. He served as a sergeant with the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II. Mr. D'Amico was employed at the former Standard Tinplate in Canonsburg and, prior to retirement, was employed for 22 years in the maintenance department of Pittsburgh Metal Lithograph. His wife, Laura D'Angelo D'Amico, died in June 1983. Surviving are a sister, Genevieve Easter of Canonsburg; and several nieces and nephews. Deceased are two brothers, Oriente "Jack" D'Amico and Mayo D'Amico.

Robert G. Kuhn Sr.
Resident of Reynoldsville
Robert G. Kuhn Sr., 67, of Reynoldsville, died Saturday, December 13, 1997. He was a son of Laura Meute Kuhn of Houston and the late Ernest Kuhn. Surviving, in addition to her mother, are three sons, Robert Jr., Ernest and Phillip; two daughters, Nancy Eichenauer and Linda Gold; and 10 of grandchildren, Julie, Kristen, Sara, Leah, Holly, Keith, Sean, Laura, Mary and Heather.

Frank Liberatore
Retired carpenter for Washington County
Frank Liberatore, 77, of Low Hill, Brownsville (Centerville Borough), died at 5:20 p.m. Wednesday, December 10, 1997, in Mon Valley Hospital. He was born March 25, 1920, in Vesta 6, a son of Dominic and Basicilia Sabatini Liberatore. Mr. Liberatore retired in 1981 as a carpenter for Washington County, where he worked for many years. He was a veteran of World War II, having served in the U.S. Army. Deceased is his wife, Norma Jean Gaster Liberatore, who died December 18, 1983. Surviving are two sons, Marty Liberatore and Larry Liberatore, both of Low Hill, Brownsville; two grandchildren, Shaun Liberatore and Ross Liberatore; three sisters, Rose Rush and Mary Gaster, both of Low Hill, and Nellie Amato of Hagerstown, Md.; and many nieces and nephews. Deceased are five brothers, Joseph, George, Valentine, Anthony and Sam Liberatore.

Hazel P. Manfredi
Arrangments Incomplete
Hazel P. Manfredi, 82, of Washington, died Sunday, December 14, 1997, at home. Arrangements are incomplete and being handled by Piatt & Barnhill Funeral Home, Washington. A complete obituary will be published in a later edition.

Donald M. Pettit Sr.
W.Va. resident retired from Peoples Gas Co.
Donald M. Pettit Sr., 63, of Blacksville, W.Va., died Friday, December 12, 1997, in his home. He was born February 18, 1934, in Rutan, a son of the late Floyd and Millis May Hull Pettit. Mr. Pettit was a member of Life Center Foursquare Church, Pentress, W.Va. He served in the U.S. Air Force from 1952 to 1956 and retired from Peoples Natural Gas Co. with 32 years of service. Surviving are his wife, Laura June Higgins Pettit; two sons, Donald M. Pettit Jr. of Brownsville and David K. Pettit of Pentress; two daughters, Darlene Pettit Rossi of Pine Island, N.Y., and Marlene Pettit Nolin of Claysville; five brothers, Floyd Elwood Pettit of Daisytown, Melvin Pettit of Bedford, Ohio, Noel Pettit of Alexandria, Va., Lemoyne Pettit of Burgettstown and Monty Blair Pettit of Eighty Four; three sisters, Edna Phillips of Spraggs, Izola Clukey of Shreveport, La., and Wilda Litton of Weirton, W.Va.; and eight grandchildren, Steven Keith, Christina, Laura and Michelle Pettit, Antonia and Faye Rossi, and Eric and Kelsey Nolin. Deceased is a brother, Alvin Pettit.

Laura G. Ridge
Daisytown resident had lived in Baltimore, Md.
Laura G. Ridge, 59, of Walkertown Hill Road, Daisytown, formerly of Baltimore, Md., died at 10:30 a.m. Sunday, December 14, 1997, at home. She was born May 1, 1938, in Baltimore, Md., a daughter of the late Evelyn V. Rochfort. Mrs. Ridge had been employed at Woolworth's Store in Baltimore for 25 years. In May 1958, she married William R. Ridge, who survives. Also surviving are three sons, William R. Ridge III, Steven R. Ridge, both at home, and Robert J. Ridge of Baltimore; and two grandsons, William Robert and Kevin Ridge.

Gladys Sokolosky
Bentleyville resident was native of Charleroi
Gladys M. Johnson Sokolosky, 74, of Bentley Tower, Bentleyville, died Saturday, December 13, 1997, in her home. She was born May 12, 1923, in Charleroi, a daughter of George Henry and Mary Palfrey Johnson. Mrs. Sokolosky was a 1941 graduate of Bentleyville High School. She was employed for 18 years as an EKG technician at Lakewood (Ohio) Hospital, and had once been employed at Model Cleaners in Charleroi. Mrs. Sokolosky lived for the last 10 years in Bentleyville, where she was a member of Bentleyville United Methodist Church. On August 15, 1945, in Bentleyville, she married Henry Raymond Sokolosky, who died October 22, 1981. Surviving are several nieces and nephews. Deceased are three brothers, Samuel H., Robert and George "Bud" Johnson.

Alice B.H. Stalker
Former Washington resident
Alice B. Harraka Stalker, 71, of 70 Day Street, Paterson, N.J., died Friday, December 12, 1997, in the home of her daughter, Sally Stalker, following an illness. She was born November 11, 1926, in Paterson, a daughter of Elias and Selma Harraka Harraka. Mrs. Stalker was a resident of Paterson for the past 15 years and received her education there. She previously lived in Washington. After the death of her husband, Willis L. Stalker, she was employed in the packaging department of Shulton perfume manufacturing. Mrs. Stalker was a member of St. George's Parish, Paterson, N.J., and a surviving brother, George Harraka, is from Totowa, N.J. Others surviving are four daughters, Doris Long of Alpine, Utah, Sally Stalker of Nashua, N.H., Connie Bredniak of Avella and Nancy Stalker of Mechanicsburg; five grandchildren, Kristen, Renee and Bobby Bredniak, and Tracy and Kenneth Chase; one great-granddaughter; three brothers, George Harraka and Joseph Harraka, both of Paterson, and James Harraka of New York; and two sisters, Rose Portelli of Paterson and Jessie Hladik of Clifton, N.J.

Garnet Chambers Trax
Member of Peters Creek Baptist Church
Garnet Irene Moxon Chambers Trax, 85, of McMurray, died Sunday, December 14, 1997. She was born August 25, 1912, a daughter of Joseph and Ann Moxon. Mrs. Trax was affiliated with Peters Creek Baptist Church of Library. Surviving are a son, Lowell J. Chambers; two grandchildren, Carol C. Kopp and Kevin Lowell Chambers, all from the state of California ; five great-grandchildren; and a sister, Ann McClure of Venetia. Deceased is a brother, Joseph K. Moxon.

Rosemarie S. White
Office manager for husband's medical practice
Rosemarie "Rosebud" Steele White, 72, died Thursday, December 11, 1997, in Washington Hospital. She was born April 23, 1925, in Pittsburgh, a daughter of Charles R. Steele and Ann Janetti Steele Mancini. Mrs. White graduated in 1943 from Westinghouse High School. She worked as a medical transcriptionist at Presbyterian Hospital and became office manager for her husband, Dr. William L. White, who is deceased. During nearly 40 years of medical office management, she was active in professional organizations, serving as president of the Allegheny County Medical Assistants Association and Pennsylvania Medical Assistants Society. In 1982, she retired with her husband to their farm in Washington County. Surviving are three stepsons, William L. III, G. Jeffrey and Mark A. White; four stepdaughters, Deborah W. Karvey, Nancy W. Norris, Georgea L. White and Candace W. Holmes; three brothers, Anthony, Charles and Ronald Steele; four sisters, Margaret Hay, Carol Mascara, Linda Becker and Annette Mancini; 12 grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.

John A. Lugaila
Retired laborer from Cooper Power Systems
John A. Lugaila, 79, of Hickory, died Tuesday, October 14, 1997, after a lengthy illness. He was born September 25, 1918, in Primrose, son of Michael and Anna Dombroska Lugaila. Mr. Lugaila was a member of St. Alphonsus Church, McDonald. He was a U.S. Army Air Force veteran of World War II. Mr. Lugaila was a retired laborer from Cooper Power Systems, formerly McGraw-Edison. He enjoyed hunting and sports. He was married for 49 years to Josephine Dire Lugaila of Hickory. Also surviving are a sister, Agnes Kramer of Midway; two daughters, Therese Dott of Washington and Denise Hoyle of Bethel Park; and two grandchildren, Nicholas and Jeffrey. Deceased are three brothers, Joseph, Michael and Alex Lugaila; and two sisters, Bertha Truzzi and Mamie Kerekes.

Henry J. Ritenour Jr.
Served in U.S. Army during Vietnam era
Henry Jacob Ritenour Jr., 56, of Muse, died Monday, October 13, 1997, in his home. He was born May 10, 1941, in Hunker, a son of the late Henry J. and Madaline Cindric Ritenour Sr. Mr. Ritenour was a welder, employed by the General Fabricating Co. of Carnegie. He served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam era. His wife, Grace Clark Ritenour, survives. Also surviving are five daughters, Linda Carlile of Washington, Patty Silos of New Mexico, Brenda Huber of Claysville, Gracie Africa of Canonsburg, and Darlene Carlile of Washington; three sons, Billy Africa of Canonsburg, and Jimmy Africa and Glenn Africa, both of Washington; two sisters, Margaret Kimmel of Marionville and Marcia Ritenour of Allenport; one brother, John R. Ritenour of Morgan; 23 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. Deceased is one sister, Mary Young.

Peter Wood
Attended Holy Altar Church of God in Fredericktown
Peter Douglas Wood, 50, of Jefferson, died unexpectedly Saturday, October 11, 1997. He was born May 18, 1947, in Washington, D.C., a son of Ramsey Wood of Chevy Chase, Md., and the late Naomi Liebowitz Wood. An electrician by trade, he was a member of Holy Altar Church of God in Fredericktown. His wife, Linda Hubble Wood, survives, along with two daughters, Catherine and Megan Wood, both at home; a brother, Michael Wood of Piscataway, N.J.; and two sisters, Barbara Stuck of Dale City, Va., and Alice Griffin of Rocksburry, Conn.

Virginia I. Cain
54-year member of Canonsburg U.P. Church
Virginia I. "Sonny" Cain, 75, formerly of 120 North Jefferson Avenue, Canonsburg, died Sunday, December 14, 1997, in McMurray Hills Manor, McMurray. She was born February 4, 1922, in Waynesburg, a daughter of Walter R. and Mary McElhany Cain. Mrs. Cain was a member of Canonsburg United Presbyterian Church for 54 years, where she was a member of the Lydia Circle and helped to compile the Spire newsletter of the church. She was a Sunday school teacher at the former Greenside United Presbyterian Church and a member and past president of the former Monday Evening Women's Club. She was an inactive member of the American Legion Auxiliary of McDonald and Canonsburg Hospital Women's Auxiliary. A1939 graduate of Cecil High School, she took postgraduate classes in bookkeeping and shorthand. Mrs. Cain was employed as secretary to the manager of Muse Supply Co., where she advanced to office manager. She worked at Canonsburg Pottery as office manager until its closing and then at Mulach Steel Corp., serving as head of the payroll department before retiring in 1991. Surviving are a sister, Doris Hughes of Houston; and a nephew, Robert Hughes. Deceased is a sister, FahyEvelyn Cain.

Nicholas James Greco
Worked at Tinplate, Hazel Atlas and Federal Paper
Nicholas James Greco, 86, of Hazelwood Drive, Washington, died at 8 a.m. Monday, December 15, 1997, in Washington Hospital. He was born October 25, 1911, in Washington, a son of Michael and Jennie Franco Greco. He attended Bellvue Grade School and was a graduate of Bellvue High School, Washington. Mr. Greco was first employed at Washington Tinplate as an operator and later worked at the Hazel Atlas Glass Plant and as a security guard at Federal Paper Board in Arden, retiring in 1977. His first wife, Mary Bellino Greco, died in 1951. On December 6, 1952, he married Carmella Nicolella Greco, who survives. Also surviving are a daughter, Arlene Siburt of Falls Church, Va.; and several nieces and nephews. Deceased are four brothers, Carl, James, Joseph and Ralph Greco.

Jack E. Jacobs
Arrangements Incomplete
Jack E. Jacobs, 79, of Washington, died Monday, December 15, 1997, in Vencor Hospital, Pittsburgh. A complete obituary and funeral arrangements will be announced at a later date by the William G. Neal Funeral Homes Ltd., 925 Allison Avenue, Washington.

Joe Graham
Arrangements Incomplete
Joe Graham, 88, of Bossier, La., formerly of Greene County, died at 9 a.m. Monday, December 15, 1997, at Glen Retirement Center, Shreveport, La. Funeral arrangements are incomplete and are under the direction of the Milliken and Throckmorton Funeral Home Inc., 197 North Maiden Street, Waynesburg. A complete obituary will be published in a later edition.

Edwin M. Taylor
1940 Union High graduate served in WW II
Edwin M. Taylor, 75, of Eldersville, died Saturday, November 15, 1997, in Weirton (W.Va.) Medical Center. He was born October 2, 1922, in Burgettstown, a son of Benjamin F. and Ethel S. Scott Taylor. Prior to his retirement in 1984, Mr. Taylor was employed as a tower operator for Conrail. He was a 1940 graduate of Union High School in Burgettstown. Mr. Taylor served in the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II in China and India. Mr. Taylor was a member of Eldersville United Methodist Church and the Jefferson Township Historical Society. On October 9, 1954, he married Roseleta Blaker, who survives. Also surviving are two brothers, Harold Taylor of Eldersville and Donald Taylor of Hickory; two sisters, Ruth Vega of Burgettstown and Doris Diaz of Langeloth; and several nieces and nephews.

Paul K. Roberts
Retired from Kraft Glass, delivered coal to homes
Paul K. Roberts, 82, of Wolfdale, died Saturday, November 15, 1997, in the Washington Hospital intensive care unit. He was born March 21, 1915, in Washington, a son of Guy Upton and Inez Fern Gray Roberts. Mr. Roberts was a member of the Third United Presbyterian Church of Washington and had attended Eighth Ward school. He retired from Kraft Glass, formerly Metro Containers, where he worked as a machine operator. He was also a self-employed carpenter and a strip miner, and was owner and operator of Paul K. Roberts Home Delivery Coal Company, and worked at Hazel Atlas Glass Plant No. 2. Mr. Roberts was a veteran of the U.S. Army during World War II and was a member of Taylorstown American Legion Post 907. On May 23, 1934, he married Mary F. "Betty" Holmes Roberts, who died March 30, 1991. Surviving are four sons, Thomas E. Roberts of Claysville, Charles R. Roberts of Toronto, Ohio; David K. Roberts of Washington, and Roger D. Roberts of Wakeman, Ohio; three daughters, Fern Miklic of Washington, Estelle "Tillie" Wallace at home; and Jane L. Naraskivitch of Washington; two brothers, Donovan Roberts of Hazlet, N.J., and James Roberts of North Jackson, Ohio; four sisters, Edith Amos of Greenock, Esther Strope, Jean Kraeer and Helen Huffman, all of Washington; 28 grandchildren; 40 great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews. Deceased are an infant son, Richard Allen Roberts, and two sisters, Ruth Kramer and Dorothy Holmes.

Alfred R. Bartolotta
Retired from Combustion Engineering, Monongahela
Alfred R. "Rudy" Bartolotta, 70, of Monongahela, died Tuesday, September 16, 1997, in Monongahela Valley Hospital, Carroll Township. He was born September 19, 1926, in New Eagle, a son of Vincenzo and Julia Sarnoskie Bartolotta. Mr. Bartolotta retired in 1973 with 21 years employment at Combustion Engineering, East Monongahela. He was a U. S. Army veteran holding the rank of sergeant in Company A, 110th Infantry during the Korean War. Mr. Bartolotta was a member of Full Gospel Assembly Church in Monongahela, Carroll Township American Legion Post 949, Dunkirk, and the former Sons of Italy and Italian Citizens Club, both of Monongahela. Surviving is his wife, Teresa Guastella Bartolotta, with whom he celebrated 49 years of marriage on July 13, 1997. Also surviving are two daughters, Cynthia and Katherine Bartolotta, both of Monongahela; a son, Dennis Bartolotta of Monongahela; three grandchildren, Christopher, Joshua and Tina Bartolotta; a sister, Mary Bartolotta Pomponio of Charleroi; two brothers, Fred Bartolotta of Washington and Antonio Bartolotta of Fayette City; and several cousins, nieces and nephews. Deceased are three brothers, Steve, Frank and Ernest Bartolotta; and three sisters, Clair, Catherine and Margaret Bartolotta.

Victoria Loria
Worked for Gimbels Department Store 25 years
Victoria Oliverio Loria, 83, of Bellrose Avenue, Pittsburgh, died at 7:35 a.m. Thursday, December 18, 1997, in the home of her sister, Louise Oleski of Washington with whom she lived the past seven months. She had lived most of her life in Dormont. She born September 15, 1914, in Everston, W.Va., a daughter of William Sr. and Rosina Tallaricco Oliverio. She was a member of St. Bernards Roman Catholic Church of Mt. Lebanon. She was employed at Gimbels Department Store for 25 years prior to her retirement. Surviving are four brothers, Anthony Oliverio, of Phoenix, Ariz., Frank Oliverio and Joseph Oliverio, both of Washington and Thomas Oliverio of Palo Alto, Calif.; three sisters, Catherine Biafore of Parma, Ohio, Rose Chomiak of Washington and Louise Oleski of Washington, with whom she lived the past seven months; and several nieces and nephews. Deceased are two brothers, John Oliverio and William Oliverio Jr.

Linda T. Short
Louisiana woman former teacher in area schools
Linda Talbert Short, 53, of DeRidder, La., died Wednesday, December 17, 1997. Mrs. Short is the daughter of Beulah Martin Talbert of DeRidder and the late Marvin Talbert. She was a member of the First Balptist Church for many years and graduated from high school in DeRidder. Mrs. Short received her master's degree from Northwestern University in Natchitoches. She taught at several area schools in Louisiana and Pennsylvania. She was the director of Beauregard Activities Center in DeRidder. Surviving are a half sister, Dorothy Carter of Houston, Texas; two stepchildren, Blanchard Short of Shreveport, La,. and Sally Short of Albuquerque, N.M. Deceased, in addition to her father, is her husband, Ben Short. Funeral services will be held Friday in DeRidder with the Rev. Stan Allcorn officiating. Burial will be in Beauregard Cemetery.

James L. Cox
Former steel worker from North Franklin
James L. Cox, 78, of 206 Baltimore Avenue, North Franklin Township, formerly of Cleveland, Ohio, and Prosperity, died Tuesday, November 18, 1997, at home following a brief illness. He was born February 5, 1919, in Washington, a son of Thomas E. Cox Sr., and Cinda M. Horner Cox. Mr. Cox was a former steel worker and later worked as a driver for the former Peter Pan Cleaners. He was a member of AAA auto club and a former member of VFW Post 927 of Washington. Mr. Cox was a U.S. Army veteran of World War II. He enjoyed pitching horseshoes. He was twice married. His first wife, Tiny Pearl Thompson Cox died October 22, 1952. On August 10, 1958, he married Mary L. Corbin Burgess, who died March 4, 1991. Surviving are two sons, Raymond L. Cox of Williamsburg, Va., and Edgar E. Cox of Chesapeake, Va.; a daughter, Ruby Janice Cox Gray of Muse; five stepsons, James P. Moss, Larry, David and Walter Burgess, all of Washington and Clyde Burgess of Charleroi; five stepdaughters, Mary Wood of Ohio, Bessie Crawford, Glenora Aloia and Phyllis Jean Miller, all of Washington, and Judy Barton of Finleyville; two sisters, Betty Stetson of Washington and Florence Daniels of Bentleyville; several grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren. Deceased are two brothers, Thomas and John Cox; and two stepsons, Franklin Moss and Robert Burgess.

Stanley I. Barker
family formerly of Washington
Word has been received of the death of Stanley I. Barker, 86, of Toledo, Ohio, who died August 16, 1997, in St. Vincent Mercy Medical Center. He was born the son of Frank and Sophie Barker, formerly of Washington. Surviving are a son, Robert Barker; stepchildren Tom Miller, Connie Marietta and Sue Rooks; a sister Sylvia Jamison of Washington; 14 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; and several nieces and nephews. Deceased are his wife, Alice Barker; four brothers, Elzie, Howard, Arthur and Don; and a sister, Goldie Vitteck.

Alma G. Andrews
Member of Faith Chapel in Lawrence
Alma Gardner Andrews, 96, of Lawrence, died Saturday, November 29, 1997, in South Hills Convalescent Center. She was born June 29, 1901, in Sturgeon, a daughter of Calister and Josephine Batiste Vallet. Mrs. Andrews was a member of Faith Chapel in Lawrence. Surviving are three daughters, Olive Shaffer of Canonsburg, Alma Brooks of Lawrence and Virginia Fickes of Hollidaysburg; one son, Allen B. Gardner of Union City; 10 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; and six great-great-grandchildren.

Ella Mae Clark
Was a resident of Clarksville for 65 years
Ella Mae Clark, 86, of Clarksville, died Friday, November 28, 1997, in Providence Medical Center, Columbia, S.C. She was born December 20, 1910, in Talladega, Ala., a daughter of James J. and Betty Jackson. Mrs. Clark resided in Clarksville for 65 years. She moved to Columbia, S.C., on November 1, 1997. She was a homemaker and a longtime member of the former Church of the Living God in Clarksville. She later became a member of the First Baptist Church of Clarksville. Her husband, Grant Clark, is deceased. Surviving are three sons, Charles Brown of Columbia, S.C., Donald Clark of Lorain, Ohio, and Raymond Clark of Pittsburgh; four daughters, Betty Wheeler of Penn Hills, Rose Benford of Youngstown, Ohio, Marva Lockett of Clarksville and Imogene Clark of Monroeville; 26 grandchildren; several great-grandchildren; several great-great grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. Also deceased are one son, Grant Clark Jr., and a sister, Olivia Byrd.

Wilbert H. Corwin
Former employee of J&L Steel Co.
Wilbert H. Corwin, 84, of McDonald, died Saturday, November 29, 1997, in Allegheny University Medical Centers-Canonsburg. He was born July 31, 1913, in West Elizabeth, a son of Oliver M. and Florence Warn Corwin. Mr. Corwin served in the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II. He worked for for 16 years at J&L Steel Co., Aliquippa Works, and retired in 1975. He was a member of Trinity Presbyterian Church, McDonald, McDonald American Legion Post 485 and United Steelworkers of America, Local 1211, Aliquippa. On April 8, 1943, he married Florence A. Dunkle, who survives. Also surviving are one son, William W. Corwin of Butler; one daughter, Susan J. Matsko of Beaver; one sister, Blanche Richter of Aliquippa; and five grandchildren, Kevin and Jamie Corwin and Joe, Megan and Jennifer Matsko. Deceased are two brothers, Harry and Carl Corwin; and one sister, Lillian "Lee" Michael.

Ellen S. Desmet
Member of Gladden UP choir nearly 70 years
Ellen S. Desmet, 81, of South Fayette Township, died Saturday, November 29, 1997, at her residence. She was born November 15, 1916, in Cecil, a daughter of Joseph and Mary Jane Cox Laing. Mrs. Desmet was a member of Gladden United Presbyterian Church, where she served as an elder and president of the Women's Association of the church. She had been a member of the church choir for nearly 70 years. On December 27, 1933, she married Leonard Desmet, who survives. They had celebrated 63 years of marriage. Also surviving are three daughters, Jane Mitchell of South Fayette, Florine Rolin of Hickory, Sandra Desmet of South Fayette; two sons, Leonard J. and Alan Desmet, both of South Fayette; one sister, Florence Seretvay of Carnegie; 12 grandchildren; and 16 great-grandchildren. Deceased are two sisters, Dorothy Mitchell and Virginia Veltri; and three brothers, Kenneth, Joseph and Calvin Laing.

Stella Faryna
Member of St. Luke's Church, Bentleyville
Stella Faryna, 73, of Chestnut Street, Ellsworth, died at 10:30 p.m. Saturday, November 29, 1997, at Mt. Macrina Manor, Uniontown. She was born May 1, 1924, in Jerome, Cambria County, a daughter of Theodius "Frank" and Mary Kolarcheck. Mrs. Faryna was a member of Ave Maria Parish, St. Luke's Church, Bentleyville. On November 6, 1954, she married John Faryna. Also surviving are two daughters, Ella Louise Watkins of Speers and Barbara Ann Hollier of Eighty Four; two sons, Michael John Faryna of Donora and Frank Faryna of Ellsworth; 14 grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren. Deceased are a daughter, JoAnn Axton; a granddaughter, Cherly Ann Axton; and a brother, Frank Tanski.

Lois E. Hartman
Lawrence resident formerly of North Hills
Lois E. Hartman, 86, of Third Street, Lawrence, formerly of North Hills, died Saturday, November 29, 1997, at Allegheny University Medical Center-Canonsburg. She was born October 7, 1911, a daughter of Elmer S. and Harriet Stevens McNary. Mrs. Hartman was a homemaker. Her husband, Edwin T. Hartman, died in 1960. Surviving are a son, Edwin L. Hartman M.D. of Smithfield, N.C.; a daughter, Linda Babeji of Lawrence; a brother, Rex McNary of Crafton; a sister, Dorothea Neals of Crafton; five grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. Deceased is a nephew.

Lenore G. Haught
Longtime member of IC Church
Lenore G. Haught, 87, of Hawthorne Road, Washington, died at 5:05 a.m. Saturday, November 29, 1997, in Washington Hospital. She was born October 19, 1910, in Washington, a daughter of John Vincent and Sarah Welsh Griffin. Mrs. Haught was a longtime member of Immaculate Conception Church, Washington. She also was a member of the Christian Mothers and the Catholic Daughters groups, and was a 1927 graduate of Immaculate Conception High School. She was last employed at Washington Hospital, where she worked for 19 years until her retirement. On July 13, 1940, she married John W. Haught, who survives. Also surviving are two daughters, Sarah A. Iannone of Sacramento, Calif., and Catherine H. Schwarzbach of Eighty Four; three grandchildren, Michael and Steven Iannone and Megan Schwarzbach; and several nieces and nephews. Deceased are a daughter, Barbara Jean Haught; and four brothers, Gerald, Stanley, John and Raymond Griffin; and two sisters, Isabelle Griffin and Catherine Earley.