These include death notices reported by December 1, 2023.
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Evelyn Mae Becker Lieberman on October 30, 2023. Evelyn Mae (Becker) Lieberman was born Aug. 11, 1925, in Manor, Westmoreland County, to the late Robert and Mary Edith (Everett) Becker. After her mother died in 1934, Evelyn was raised in Jeannette by her paternal uncle, James Becker, and his wife, Lillian Naomi (Greenawalt) Becker. Evelyn always excelled in her studies. She also loved playing the piano. She graduated from Allegheny College and went to the University of Kentucky for her master’s degree. It was there that Evelyn met her husband, Irving Lieberman. Evelyn taught science in the Pittsburgh Public School system for more than 25 years. She was also a die-hard Pittsburgh Penguins fan. She is survived by her daughter, Mary D’Abarno, and her son-in-law, Francesco; her grandson, Francesco Jr., and his wife, Stephanie; her grandson, Joseph, and his wife, Krystal. She is also survived by two beloved half-sisters and various nieces and nephews. Evelyn was preceded in death by her beloved son, James Irving Lieberman, her husband, Irving Lieberman, her birth parents, her stepmother, her treasured uncle and his wife, her half-brother and his wife.
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Barbara Ann “Bobbie” Osburn Watkins on July 16, 2023. Barbara Ann “Bobbie” Watkins, 97, formerly of Polk, passed away Sunday July 16th, 2023 in Midlothian, Texas, surrounded by love and family. Bobbie was born January 9, 1926, in Vincennes, Indiana to H.T. and Vesta Archer Osburn. Shortly after her birth, her family moved to Cannonsburg, Pa where she was raised until the family settled in Franklin, Pa in 1940. Barbara attended Purdue University, her parent’s alma mater, before transferring to Allegheny College in Meadville, where she met her first husband, Charles Ritter ’49, whom she married in 1946. They had six children, and after their divorce Barbara finished her psychology degree at Allegheny, while solely raising their children. She was a dedicated mother, spending 7 years as a Brownie Girl Scout Leader, and 12 years as PTA president. She always had time for others and an ear to lend; no one was a stranger to Bobbie. Bobbie was retired from Polk Center, spending 10 years in the education department, and she also worked at the Polk Post Office. Bobbie married Harry Watkins in 1971, and he preceded her in death in 1978. They made their home in Polk, Pa, where she lived until 2020, when the Covid pandemic necessitated a move to Midlothian, Texas to live with her daughter, Judy. Bobbie was able to live alone in her home until the age of 94 with the help of her daughter Wendy and her husband Dan, and also her special friends Larry and Linda Watkins of Stoneboro, Pa. Her incredible memory, sharp mind and wit stayed with Bobbie throughout her life, amazing friends and family with her knowledge and memory of people and events. She never forgot a birthday, and always sent a card. She was an exceptional card player and scrabble queen, to beat her would be cause to celebrate she always won! She played Contract Bridge, attaining the rank of Silver Life Master, and was a certified director of the weekly game at the women’s club in Oil City. More recently, she enjoyed playing at her local community center. Bobbie was also a remarkable hand quilter, sharing her skills with others as a member of the Polk Community Quilting Bee. She cherished her memories, friendships, and time spent with this great group of ladies. She also created and directed the Quiltathon fundraiser at the Franklin Library for 25 years. In addition to quilting, Barbara was also skilled at other hand crafts, and was always making crocheted dish scrubbies, which she would hand out all over the world! “Marking her territory”, she would laugh. She was also a voracious reader, often finishing a book a day. Bobbie had a love of cooking, great food & wine, and could always remember the best restaurants in any given city! She was an amazing cook, sharing her knowledge and passion with her family everyone loved getting her plate of Christmas cookies every year! Bobbie was a world traveler, making friends and memories across the globe. She visited 20 countries, and spent time in every US state except Alaska and Montana. She particularly cherished her time spent in Oaxaca, Mexico with her daughters, as recently as 2020. She had a keen sense of adventure, and traveled to many interesting places including the Great Wall of China, the Taj Mahal, temples in Japan, jungles and beaches in Costa Rica, and paddling past glaciers in New Zealand at the age of 81. She also had a love of tent camping, and enjoyed road trips with her family throughout her life as recently as June, when she traveled to Nashville for a family reunion. Her family was very important to Bobbie, and we were all blessed with the most amazing matriarch and sterling example of a mother and grandmother. A remarkable woman. Bobbie truly was a “Beacon of Light” to many, earning the first ever award of that name by the Venango County RSVP Senior Corps. She logged more than 16,000 hours of volunteer time over 12 years of service in the Franklin Community. She volunteered at the Franklin Library, the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, the Visiting Nurses Association, the Franklin Garden Association, and the Polk Fire Department, to which she donated funds raised by making and selling quilts. She tirelessly endeavored to better the lives of her fellow citizens and loved ones, and firmly believed in recognizing and marching for women’s rights. She also received other awards for her volunteer work, including citations from the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, and two President’s Call to Service Awards. Bobbie was an American Red Cross Disaster Action Team Captain, serving with the Red Cross during 20 national disasters, including Hurricane Katrina and Ground Zero relief efforts after 9/11. She went where the people needed her, even into her 80’s. Barbara is survived by daughters Judy O’Polka of Midlothian, Texas, and Wendy (Dan) Norris of Dempseytown, and son Jeremy Ritter of San Francisco, CA. She is also survived by grandchildren Teresa Ritter and husband Ron Cook, of Bothell, Washington, Karyn Ritter and husband Andrew Littlefield of San Francisco, CA, Christopher Ritter and wife Crystal of Shingle Springs, CA, Jeff O’Polka and wife Shannon of Grand Prairie, TX, John O’Polka and wife Marnie of Midlothian, TX, Fargo Ray of Colorado, Ron and Cody Ray of Polk, Pa, Melanie Ray of Albion, Pa, and Myria Kutchravy and husband Matt of Stafford, VA, in addition to numerous great grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by her sister, Patricia Pratt, and the following children Leslie in 1955, Tom Ritter in 1987, and Beth Ritter in 2010. She was also preceded by grandchildren Kinyen Ray in 2001, and Jessica Scurry in 2022.
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Richard L. Biemer on September 12, 2023. Richard L. Biemer, 98, of Conneaut Lake, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, September 12, 2023 at home.
He was born January 22, 1925 in Meadville, a son of Lawrence and Ida Mosbacher Biemer. He married Helen Remigio January 28, 1967.
Rick was a 1943 graduate of St. Agatha High School and then enlisted in the U.S. Navy where he served in World War II and Korea. He then graduated from Allegheny College in 1949 with a Bachelor’s degree in Geology. He subsequently received his Master’s degree in Guidance from Allegheny and a certification in School Psychology from Penn State.
Rick worked in the Townville schools as a teacher, guidance counselor, and school psychologist and later for the Intermediate unit 5. He was a member of Our Lady Queen of the Americas Church where he served as a reader and Eucharistic minister.
Rick was a member of the Meadville Coin Club and the former Submarine Veterans of World War II. He enjoyed coin collecting, woodworking, cutting wood, building his cabin, and was an avid Pirates fan.
Survivors, in addition to his loving wife Helen, include three children, Jon Biemer (Willow) of Truth or Consequences, NM, Andrea Collins (Jeff) of Bay Village, OH, and Philip Biemer of Conneaut Lake; three grandchildren, William Lightning (Stacey), Ryan Horne, and Sean Horne; two great-grandchildren, Adwin and Michael; and a sister, Jeanne Plementosh of Meadville.
He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Gordon Biemer.
Jean Gillis Harth on August 10, 2023. Jean Harth, age 96, of Harlingen, Texas passed away on Thursday, August 10, 2023.
I’d like the memory of me
To be a happy one.
I’d like to leave an afterglow
Of smiles
When life is done.
I’d like to leave an echo whispering
Softly down the ways.
Of happy times and laughing times
And bright sunny days.
I’d like the tears of those who grieve,
To dry before the sun
Of happy memories that I leave
When life is done.
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Phyllis Isabelle Rosen Hollander on July 13, 2023. Hollander–Phyllis Isabelle. On July 13, 2023 at the age of 94, this lifelong New Yorker left behind a legacy of love, activism, and dedication to her community. Born and raised on the Upper West Side, attended Hunter High School, Allegheny College and the University of Michigan. Summers at Camp Red Wing on Schroon Lake were cherished. Briefly resided in Baldwin, NY, but her true love and passion was New York City. She embraced all New York City had to offer and lived independently until 94. Always active in the arts, culture, politics, women, disabilities, and civil and human rights. Her life extended beyond her activism as a celebrated volunteer in the Glass Garden Horticulture Program at NYU-Rusk working within the hospital especially with children who had cancer. Also loved gardening on the High Line and Central Park Conservancy well into her 80’s and at her treasured home in Millerton, NY. She worked as a social worker and collaborated with her husband and on her own editing and writing sports books. Known for her unwavering dedication to others and as a caregiver and loyal friend to many. Preceded in death by husband, Zander, and son, Peter. Survived by daughter, Susan (son-in-law, Neil Whitman), sister, Davee Israel, as well as cherished granddaughters, Tobye (Isada) and Emma (Andrew), great- grandchildren, Patrick and Zuri who brought her great joy and her special caregiver Andrea Cordova.
Pierre DeMaison Poux on October 27, 2023. Pierre DeMaison Poux slipped quietly from this world, just as he hoped he would, on October 27, 2023, at Regional Hospice in Danbury CT. He was 96.
Pierre’s email handle was “bosspoux,” a title that didn’t refer to his career, but rather to the defining role of his life: father to seven children, father-in-law to seven more, grandfather to thirteen, and great-grandfather to three. If a person’s wealth can be measured in the love he gave to his family and received in return, Pierre Poux was the richest of men. And he was among the most fortunate of men to take on those roles with the love of his life, Rita Beaudoin Poux, who preceded him in death in 2015.
Large immediate and extended families were a recurring theme in Pierre’s life. Born August 4th, 1927, in Frenchtown, PA, he was the second of eight children, one of seven boys. His mother, Germaine (Taillez) Poux, was raised in France; his father, George Poux, was raised in Frenchtown. Pierre was an altar boy, helped his cousins and uncles with farm chores and attended the local Catholic schools. “I was always inquisitive, wanting to know how mechanisms worked, taking orange crate wood (gotten from the grocer across the road) and pounding crooked nails with an immensely heavy hammer, trying to will a go-cart into being,” he wrote in his memoirs.
Their family life was dealt a terrible blow when Pierre was 12. Even at the age of 96, Pierre could still recall with emotion and visual acuity the day in 1939 when a priest entered his classroom, gestured for him to follow, and told him that his father had died after surgery. His father’s death required that he grow up quickly, and he became “the handyman of the house.”
After high school, Pierre attended Allegheny College for one year and then enlisted in the U.S. Navy in July of 1945 at the age of 17, knowing full well that the U.S. was planning an invasion of Japan to end the war. After boot camp at the Great Lakes Navel Training Station, he attended radio school so that he could diagnose and repair radio, sonar, and radar equipment, fulfilling a curiosity about how things work. He achieved the rank of Radio Technician’s Mate, 3rd Class, and was honorably discharged after one year of service. Taking advantage of the GI Bill, Pierre attended Carnegie Tech in Pittsburgh, (now Carnegie Mellon) and graduated with a degree in Electrical Engineering in 1950.
The IBM Corporation offered Pierre his first job after college as a systems engineer, and he would stay with the company for his 38-year career. One of his first assignments was to support the installation of a payroll computer for the Ford Motor Company in Detroit. As auto workers were paid in cash, the large-scale computer (the IBM 705) would tell payroll what denominations of cash and coins were needed to meet payroll for each employee. The Detroit area was also the scene of something more important: It was there at a house party that he met Rita Mae Beaudoin, a beautiful occupational therapist. According to his memoirs, Pierre “waited a week or so (mustn’t seem over-anxious!)” to call to arrange a first date. The two bonded over their shared Catholic faith, losing a parent early in life, interest in DIY projects, and their small-town childhoods. Pierre proposed in the fall of 1955, and the couple married on April 7th, 1956.
IBM transferred Pierre to Poughkeepsie, N.Y., where he and Rita had six of their seven children. And in 1966, he had his fifteen minutes of fame. Pierre was featured in the World Book Encyclopedia under “Computer” in a photo with the caption, “Man working at a computer.” Years later, one of his children would come across a copy of that edition at a used bookstore, much to everyone’s delight. Also in 1966, the family moved to White Plains, N.Y., where Pierre continued to work for the computer manufacturer. In the 1960’s and 70’s, he began to travel for work to California and Asia, satisfying a lifelong, romantic curiosity about other places and cultures. And there were also a number of family road trips.
Vacation storytelling is a Poux pastime, and with so many kids, road trips were a major feat of engineering. Nine people stuffed into a wood-paneled station wagon, a mountain of luggage strapped to the roof and covered in a home-made tarp, their fuel consumption and mileage meticulously calculated in his small notebook, Pierre orchestrated every road trip with precision and was put out by the slightest deviation in plans. The annual reunion with his seven siblings, their spouses, and a mess of kids in a ramshackle house on the shores of Lake Erie produced some of his children’s most enduring memories and taught them to cherish their extended family.
The family’s greatest adventure kicked off in August 1974 when Pierre was asked to be part of the IBM Europe team. No amount of engineering could prepare them for the move to suburban Paris where they would live for three years. As Pierre tells it, “The enormity of the task rivaled planning for the D-Day invasion,” packing up an entire household, including 27 pieces of luggage. Relocating to France was a pivotal marker in everyone’s life that allowed them to renew relationships with French family, and develop a deep appreciation for French culture, food, architecture, and the countryside.
If he hadn’t been an engineer, Pierre might have enjoyed being a reporter: he was a political news junkie and a keen observer of human behavior. Even in his last months of life he watched MSNBC regularly and looked forward to discussing the news of day with visitors. His Catholic faith was extremely important to him, and along with Rita, he participated in many spiritual and religious activities throughout their marriage. A highlight was leading a number of spiritual retreats with the Cursillo organization.
Pierre considered himself an amateur photographer and loved to take photos of his family and the sights on his trips. He was an adept handyman around the house, a tenor in a barbershop quartet, a bird watcher, a football fan, and a lifelong learner. He loved a classic film, conversation and a meal with friends and family – particularly his grandchildren, radio-controlled planes, and helping his community in myriad ways.
Pierre was a founder of SHORE – Sheltering the Homeless is Our Responsibility – a grassroots organization started after a homeless man froze to death on the streets of White Plains in 1985. SHORE advocated for safe shelters, and later built and bought transitional houses for homeless families. Pierre loved his work with the organization and devoted much time and energy to their efforts, providing him with a second vocation as he contemplated retiring from IBM. He was always humble about his work with SHORE and other volunteer efforts that he took part in throughout his life to help people who were disenfranchised. SHORE continues its work today and Pierre was an active participant well into his 90’s.
When he wasn’t working with SHORE, Pierre spent much of his time with his family. We will miss his wonderful wry sense of humor, his unrestrained laugh, the loving way he kissed your cheek, the firm grasp of his hand, how he said “you see” when he told a story, his delight at the sight of his great-grandchildren, the stories of his own childhood, his generosity, his undivided attention, and his quirky phraseology.
Pierre was preceded in death by his wife of almost 59 years, Rita, his son-in-law Philip Calabro, and all of his seven siblings – Paul, Marie Therese, John, Andre, Francis, Joseph and Thomas.
He is survived by his seven children: Anne Poux MacDonald (Bruce) of Tarrytown, Sarah Calabro of Lake Carmel, Paul Poux (David Pfingstler) of Valatie, Carolyn Penot (Eric) of Le Pecq, France, Johnny Poux (Amy Rosenfeld) of Rosendale, Stephen Poux (Jennifer Sabin) of Pocantico Hills and Suzanne Newhouse (Corey) of Austin, Texas– as well as 13 grandchildren: Matthew Calabro (Erika Johnson), Emily MacDonald, Casey Calabro, Hayley Del Padre (John), Sabine Poux, Sophie Poux, Tucker Poux, Jules Penot, Sydney Penot, Trudy Poux, Reede Newhouse, Chloé Penot and Jack Newhouse. Pierre was also blessed with three great-grandchildren: Colbie Mae Calabro, Kennedy Rose Calabro, and Jolie Francesca Del Padre – with a fourth on the way.
Dr. Neal Dahl Van Marter on September 26, 2023. Neal D. Van Marter was an exceptional man who loved the Lord, his family, medicine, and the community. He was a family physician who provided medical care in Erie, PA and Anniston, AL. He died of natural causes in Atlanta, Georgia on September 26th, 2023. He was 95 years of age. Dr. Van Marter was born in Sheffield, PA, on December 18, 1927 and was raised in Warren County, PA where his grandfather was a blacksmith, and his father owned a trucking business. After two years at Allegheny College, Dr. Van Marter paused his education to serve in the United States Army where he was stationed in Japan just after World War II ended. Upon his return, he married his high school sweetheart, Martha Erickson. Dr. Van Marter graduated from the University of Pittsburgh Medical School in 1954. He established his family medicine practice in Erie, PA with Martha as business manager of the practice. During the early years of practice, Dr. Van Marter’s office was situated on the first floor of the home in which the family lived. In 1976, the family moved to Anniston, AL where Dr. Van Marter expanded to Family and Occupational Medicine, caring for his patients until age 84. Dr. Van Marter was a knowledgeable, skilled, and compassionate physician who regularly cared for families through several generations and often was called upon to consult with other physicians to provide expertise in managing their sickest patients. He was the family doctor who delivered babies, did office surgery, made house calls, conducted rounds at the hospitals, and visited the nursing homes. Many of his patients wrote and visited him until his passing. He also was a history buff and enjoyed visiting national parks and sites of historical interest such as the Freedom Trail in Boston and the Gettysburg battleground. Dr. Van Marter was always in motion. He was an avid tennis player, and an Atlanta Braves fan. He was always engaging his children and grandchildren is swimming, tennis, and cycling. He modeled living life to the fullest. Dr. Van Marter is predeceased by his beloved wife Martha Erickson Van Marter, son David, and daughter, Rebecca Susan. He is survived by his sister, Sybil Hinkle, daughters Linda J. Van Marter, Melissa V. Hoggatt (Mark), Molly J. Van Marter, and son Neal D. Van Marter, Jr., as well as grandson Neal D. Van Marter III (Heath), grand-daughters Christine Emerson (Michael), Erica Raasch (Christian), Laura Van Marter Newby (Bryant), and Katherine Van Marter, as well as great-granddaughter, Margot Emerson and great-grandsons, Warren and Micah Newby. An extraordinary man and outstanding physician, Dr. Van Marter will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
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Donald “Don” F. Rupert on November 23, 2023. Donald “Don” Rupert, age 96, residing at the Regency at South Shore, passed away there on Thursday, November 23, 2023. He was born in Kittanning, PA on June 7, 1927, the son of the late Kenneth and Blanche Booher Rupert. He graduated from New Kensington High School in 1945 and then served in the US Navy during WWII. He graduated from Allegheny College in 1951.
Don worked at Erie Malleable Iron Co. for over 40 years. As Vice President of Sales, he had a keen understanding of their product and his customers’ needs.
Don was a great storyteller and an even better conversationalist because he was a great listener, had a remarkable memory, and a genuine interest in whomever he was talking with.
He especially loved spending time with his family. All his children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, extended family, old and new friends have memorable stories about their interaction with Don.
He was a member of Wayside Presbyterian Church and was a F &A M; belonging to the Tyrian Lodge and the Scottish Rite.
He enjoyed golf and was extremely proud of his hole-in-one at the Kahkwa Club where he was a longtime member. He also enjoyed riding motorcycles, especially with his son and his brother, as well as playing billiards. He rooted for the Pittsburgh Pirates and Steelers.
Besides his parents, Don was preceded in death by his wife of 61 years, Betty Ann Barber Rupert and his brother, Richard Rupert.
He is survived by his children: Jane Gilewicz ’72 (Peter), Carol Sechrist (James), Don Rupert, Jr. (Katy), twelve grandchildren: Sarah, Amy ’99, Matthew, Rebecca, Brian, Lisa, Diana, Pamela, Jessica, Jennifer, Courtney, and William, and 24 great grandchildren with one on the way.
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Job Thomas “Tom” Hares on June 12, 2023. Job Thomas “Tom” Hares, 92, of Jenks, Oklahoma passed away on June 12th, 2023 after living a long and fulfilled life. He was born February 2nd, 1931 in New Castle, Pennsylvania to Job and Edith Hares. He was one of eight children, the brother of Sarah Gaston, Jim Hares, Edith George, Ethel Toth, Bill Hares, David Hares, and Sandy Richards. After Tom graduated from New Castle High School in 1948 he went on to earn a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from Allegheny College in 1952. Tom joined the Army in August 1952 and served in the Korean War. Tom was an Accountant for the Housing Authority in Anchorage, AK and later moved his family to Tulsa, OK and served as Director of the Tulsa Housing Authority for the remainder of his career. He was retired for over 30 years. Tom married the love of his life, Ruth Gayle Vernon in 1980, and they were married for 41 years.Tom was strong willed and stubborn at times, but he had an enormous heart and displayed great humility. He was intelligent, loyal, brave, and full to the brim of knowledge gained through his life experiences. All who knew him knew that he was a major jokester with a great sense of humor. Tom loved spending time with his two daughters, four step-daughters, thirteen grandchildren, and thirteen great grandchildren. Tom and Ruth were closely connected and always together. “Tommy” to all of the grandkids, he spent his retired days with Ruth “Mema” babysitting, attending sporting events, and supporting their grandchildren in everything they did. The family spent many years gathering at the Ft. Gibson lake house that was filled with laughter, love, and memories galore. Tom will never be forgotten but forever remembered and missed by all who were fortunate enough to know him.Tom was preceded in death by his wife, parents, and siblings, Sarah, Jim, Bill, and Sandy. He is survived by his sisters, Edith and Ethel; brother, David; children, Kathleen and Tim Giese and Kristin and John Fox; stepchildren, Vicki Hensley, Jami and Jimmy Wright, Joni and Noel Moore, Kendal and Shawn Peerson; and 26 grandchildren.
James D. Young on October 24, 2023. James D. Young, age 95, passed away on Tuesday, October 24, 2023, in his home in Oregon. He was born on November 20, 1927, in Philadelphia, PA the son of John and Helena (Moses) Young. He bravely served his country in the United States Army during World War II. James married the love of his life, Mary Louise Flasser, on November 4, 1961. After graduating from Allegheny college, he worked as a CPA and also owned Alfano’s Pizzeria in Galesburg, IL. During his free time, he enjoyed watching sports, especially the Chicago Bears and the Philadelphia Phillies and when his children were younger, he would coach their little league teams. He also enjoyed collecting stamps and coins. Most of all however he was an avid family man. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and dog-dad. He is preceded in death by his wife Mary, parents, and sister Betty. He is survived and missed by his sons James (Deborah) Young of Montello, WI, Michael Young of Oregon, IL, John Young of Dekalb, IL; grandchildren Sean (Tiffany) Young, Alana Young; great-grandchildren Brylee, Renee, Patrick Michael, Johnathon Thomas; his beloved four-legged companion Max; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
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Thomas J. Beagan Jr. on July 11, 2023. Thomas J. Beagan, Jr, born on November 1, 1931, in Queens, NY, passed away on July 11, 2023, in Philadelphia, PA. He was preceded in death by his parents Thomas James Beagan Sr. and Edna (Lake) Beagan, and great-grandchild Lincoln Thomas Steven Voss. He is survived by his devoted wife Nancy and loving sons David and TJ, daughters-in-law Lisa and Marian, Grandchildren Devon, Matthew, Erin and Ryan, and great grandchildren Sawyer and Crew. Tom graduated from Mount Lebanon Township High School in Mt. Lebanon, PA in 1949, earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Allegheny College in 1953. He achieved a Juris Doctor at Dickinson School of Law in Carlisle, PA in 1956 where he was president of the Corpus Juris Society and Student Bar Assn. representative. He was accepted to practice and counsel in front of both the Pennsylvania and United States Supreme Courts. After five years in the Philadelphia law offices of John McDevitt, in 1969 Tom Beagan started his own private practice in Media, PA where he thrived for 45 years. He served in the US Army, and as a Special Agent for the Federal Bureau of Investigation. He worked as Middletown township Counsel and Solicitor in the 1970s and was a career-long member of the American Arbitration Association. He enjoyed fishing, baseball, Philadelphia Flyers hockey, and spending time with his family.
Frank Cummins on August 26, 2023. Mr. Frank Cummins, a veteran of nearly 60 years in broadcast journalism and international relations passed away at age 91, Saturday, August 26, 2023, in his home surrounded by family.
Frank moved to Lancaster in 2006 from Northern Virginia where he spent 35 years with the Voice of America (VOA), the U.S. Government’s international broadcasting agency.
Son of the late Dr. Frank Newton Cummins and Clara Yates Cummins of Erie, Pennsylvania, Frank was educated at the University of Chicago (which he entered at age 15), Allegheny College, Gannon College, and Columbia University. Frank began his radio/television career in Erie.
In 1963, he joined the Washington-based VOA where he served as a presenter, correspondent, editor and executive. His assignments included Deputy Chief of Middle East/South Asian broadcasting, Deputy Program Manager, and Director of Program Evaluation. Overseas postings included tours in Lebanon, Pakistan, Nigeria and Germany. At various times, Frank provided consulting services to the British Broadcasting Corporation, National Public Radio, and Radio Finland.
After retirement, from VOA, Frank spent five years as an international consultant to the National Association of Chain Drug Stores, recruiting and working with European, Asian, and Latin chains.
An avid student of naval history, Frank belonged to the Nelson Society, the 1805 Cub, the Navy Records Society, and the U.S. Naval Institute. His own navy service (1954-1958) included assignments as a gunnery officer on the USS Canberra (America’s second guided missile cruiser), and on the staff of the Commander-in-Chief, Atlantic fleet.
Frank was a member of the Lamberton Lodge (F.&A.M.); the Shriner-Concord Cemetery board; Thaddeus Stevens Society; the ACLU, and a variety of liberal organizations.
A member of Alcoholics Anonymous since 1979, Frank credited the AA and an “attitude of gratitude” for his more than thirty years of sobriety.
Frank is survived by his beloved wife, Christine Renae Cummins (nee Weichel) of Lancaster; a son, Alexander Christian Cummins; a son-in-law, Hutch Chen- both of Taipei, Taiwan; two stepdaughters, Brandy Moye (Ray) and Lexi Smith (Jahan) both of Lancaster, PA; four grandchildren of Lancaster, PA; and a brother, James E. Cummins.
Daphne A. Wolf Franc on September 24, 2023. Daphne A. Franc, 92, passed away peacefully on September 24, 2023, in Dublin, Ohio. She was born to the late Frank and Katharine Wolf on June 12, 1931. Daphne is preceded in death by her husband, Melvin E. Franc, her first husband, Robert Louis Falck ’51, her sons Robert B. and Randall E. L. Falck, and her brother F. Lehn Wolf. Daphne was a 1949 graduate of West View High School and completed her B.A. in Elementary Education at Allegheny College in 1953. She was a talented majorette in both high school and college and was a proud member of the Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority. In addition to her fabulous baton-twirling routines, Daphne was a gifted ballerina and she danced for Civic Light Opera. She was an elementary school and ballet teacher for many years and instructed her students to spread kindness wherever they went. Daphne had strong faith in God and was a devout member of St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church in Perrysville until moving south, where she became a member of Ponte Vedra Presbyterian Church in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida. In her spare time, Daphne loved playing bridge, winning far more times than she lost. In her later years, she became a prolific Sudoku player and probably the number one Blue Bloods fan in the country. Caring for her family brought her great joy and she truly cherished the people she held most dear.
Daphne is survived by her daughter, Becky Wininger (David) and stepson Bruce Franc (Janine), her four grandchildren: Rachel, Nathan, Laura, and Audrey Wininger, as well as family and friends from Pittsburgh to Ponte Vedra Beach to New Zealand. Her family will miss her big bowls of ice cream, her yelling at the TV during a Steelers game, and the amount of love she gave so willingly and freely.
Nancy Stuart Maxwell Guarnieri on October 2, 2023. Nancy Stuart Maxwell Guarnieri, 90, PhD, Prof. Emeritus, went to be with the Lord on Oct. 2, 2023. Born Mar. 2, 1933, to the late Rev. John Stuart Maxwell and Martha Maxwell. Nancy began her journey as a lifelong educator in 1949, starting her Bachelor’s degree at Allegheny College with a major in Education and minors in speech and German language. She made her first contribution to the educational community two years later, where she hosted the Children’s Literature Radio Show on WMGW and subsequently wrote scripts for the WILK radio station in 1953. She started her teaching career after graduation in 1953, educating students from kindergarten to third grade in numerous public schools. In 1957, Nancy began her Masters in Education and Group Dynamics at Temple University, where she met the love of her life, Lewis. She then continued her career as an educator by serving as a Professor at the University of Virginia. Nancy’s passion for teaching children eventually led her to serve as a Professor in Early Childhood Education at Tidewater Community College in 1971. She supported child development both at home in Virginia Beach and abroad as a Montessori Representative for St. Nicholas College in London, England. She proudly served as President of the American Montessori Society. One of her proudest accomplishments was the key role she played as founder and program head of the Child Development Lab and Montessori School in Virginia Beach. Yet another dream of Nancy’s was realized when her daughter, Nancylew Guarnieri O’Donoghue, joined Tidewater Community College as an instructor in 2002, where Nancy felt at home leading the Child Development Lab with her daughter teaching Psychology and Child Development just a few doors away. She officially retired in 2007, shortly before her husband, Lewis, went with the lord in heaven. Nancy constantly looked for ways to give back to her family and local community. She worked with her oldest son, Dr. Johnstuart Guarnieri, managing his surgical practice. She also served as a President of the Virginia Beach branch of the American Cancer Society. Nancy was an active member of Old Donation Episcopal Church where she served as a vestry member, a lay reader and a chalicer. She was a loving and devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and godmother. A passionately spiritual woman, she left smiles and good humor behind her wherever she went. Left to cherish her memory are her dear family and loved ones, Dr. Johnstuart Guarnieri and his wife, Dr. Deborah Giorgi-Guarnieri, Nancylew Guarnieri O’Donoghue and her significant other, David H. Armstrong Jr., and Stuart Guarnieri and his wife, Lisa Guarnieri; grandchildren, Brendan, Bryan, D’Elia, Grace, Asher, and Aymeric; and all those whose lives she touched with her loving ways.
Dr. Winfield Scott “Skip” Zehrung III on September 7, 2023. Winfield Scott “Skip” Zehrung, III, of Marietta, GA, passed away on September 7, 2023 after a brief illness. Born in Oil City, PA on July 4, 1931, Skip was the son of the late Winfield Scott Zehrung Jr. 1919 and Sara Lane (Myton) Zehrung. He is survived by his loving wife, Mary Ruth Sutter Zehrung ’55, to whom he was married for 66 years. He was a wonderful father to Melanie Slezak of Chadds Ford, PA, Sally Wright (Michael) of Marietta, GA and Bill Zehrung (Sheri) of Charlotte, NC. His seven grandchildren brought him a great amount of joy and he loved being “Papa” to Tyler and Madeline Slezak; Meredith, Andrew and Patrick Wright; and Emily and Bennett Zehrung. He was predeceased by his parents and his sister Saralane (Zehrung) Hedderich of Whitesboro, NY. Skip was raised in Oil City, PA and graduated from Oil City High School in 1949. He attended Allegheny College, in Meadville, PA, graduating in 1953 with a B.S. in Chemistry and a Master of Science in Organic Chemistry in 1954. He was a member of the Phi Gamma Delta Fraternity and met his future wife, Mary Ruth, on the Allegheny campus. Skip went on to receive a PhD in Organic Chemistry from the University of Buffalo in 1957, where he also served as a professor while working on his Doctorate. Skip began his professional career as a Research Chemist with DuPont in Buffalo, NY. In 1967, his job took him to Wilmington, DE where he and Mary Ruth raised their family. After nearly 20 years in Delaware, Skip became the Corporate Laboratory Director for Printpack, Inc. in Atlanta. He and Mary Ruth have lived in Marietta, GA since 1986. After retiring from the Corporate Lab in 1999, Skip went back to the classroom and served as an Adjunct Professor of Chemistry at Life University until he was in his mid 80’s. Skip was an avid golfer and was never happier than when on the course. Hilton Head Island, SC was one of his favorite places, and many vacations there, with family and friends, allowed him to pursue his passion for the game. Skip was always quick to serve his community and in that capacity he and Mary Ruth tutored through their church’s after school program and served a weekly Wednesday night dinner for many years. He was President of his neighborhood association and his golf club, and many knew that he was great at making a big pot of coffee! Attending his grandchildren’s sports and arts activities, playing bridge and reading mystery novels also gave him a lot of joy.
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Robert “Bob” Strong Gourley on September 11, 2023. Robert (Bob) Strong Gourley, age 93, of Erie, died peacefully on Monday, September 11, 2023 after a brief illness. Born on March 19, 1930, in Erie, the son of the late Ernest E. Gourley and Clara Strong Gourley.
Bob graduated from Strong Vincent High School in the June class of 1948. He attended Penn State, Allegheny College, and graduated with a degree in Physical Therapy from the Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland Ohio in September, 1952. He served his country during the Korean War as a staff physical therapist at the Valley Forge Army Hospital located in Phoenixville, Pa. Upon his discharge, he worked as a physical therapist for the Chronic Disease Research Institute in Buffalo, N.Y. After returning to Erie, he worked for a number of years as a professional pharmaceutical salesman for Schering Corporation in the Erie area. He retired from the American Sterilizer in 1992 with 24 plus years of service.
Both of his great-great grandparents immigrated to the USA in the 1840’s from Ireland and he was very proud of his Irish heritage, although he did not discuss it much.
Bob loved his family, traveling, his computer, and especially ballroom dancing with his wife Valerie, whom he called his Ginger Rogers. She was his high school sweetheart and the love of his life.
He is survived by his loving wife of 72 years, Valerie Sigmond Gourley, who he married on March 31, 1951, three sons; Patrick Gourley and his wife Colleen, Scott Gourley and his wife Kathi, both of Erie, and Keith Gourley and his late wife, Kathryn of Chatham, Massachusetts, and four grandchildren, Aaron who he said was always joyful and three granddaughters, Meghan, Meredith, and Katelyn Gourley. He loved and was very proud of these girls, who he said had it all, brains, beauty, and personality. He was also blessed with two great-grandchildren, Eli and Arthur.
Dane Hannum on September 25, 2023. Dane Hannum, 91, beloved husband, father, brother, and friend, died on Monday, September 25, 2023. He was born on September 21, 1932, in Summit, NJ, to Dane and Helen Hannum. He is survived by his wife, Thomasina Hannum; sister, Martha Tait; son, Dane “Eric” Hannum; daughter, Christine Hannum; grandchildren, Dane Shade, Ryland, and Ben Hannum; son-in-law, Dan Ginter; daughter-in-law, Gail Evans; nephew, David Frank; and nieces, Cathy Matejka and Jennifer Morneault.
Dane was always a romantic at heart and the story about his courtship of Tommie, including a cross-country drive to Albuquerque to find her and a marriage proposal in Old Town, has been a favorite in the family for many years. Dane taught history for more than 35 years, starting in New York, then on Catalina Island, and finally in New Mexico where Southwestern culture and landscapes captured his imagination. He dedicated 20 years to teaching middle school at the Albuquerque Academy. Dane was a storyteller and kind of a ham, and singing and acting were always part of his life. He performed in his first musical, Finnian’s Rainbow, in his early 20s. His acting career continued into the 1990s and included many shows at the Adobe Theater, Classics Theater, and the Albuquerque Civic Light Opera. Always seeking adventure, he floated wild rivers around the West with friends and traveled with his wife to Mexico, Puerto Rico, England, Ireland, Scotland, and Spain. After retiring in 1992, he and Tommie hiked the Camino de Santiago in 1996, and he dedicated more time to gardening (his passion and his bane), playing the guitar, and spending time with his grandkids. Dane has been described as kind, wise, generous, funny, a great dad and mentor, Papa, a loving husband, and one-of-a-kind. He will be remembered fondly by friends, colleagues, and generations of students.
Michael N. McGrew on October 4, 2023. Michael N. McGrew, 91, of Manlius, passed away peacefully on October 4, 2023 at the Borer Memory Care Facility in Jamesville.
Mike was born August 27, 1932 in Cleveland, Ohio, son of Marion and Ellen Nolzes McGrew.
He graduated from Allegheny College in Meadville PA. He met and married Ellen White ’57 in 1954, a blessed Union of 69 years.
Mike was a captain of the US Airforce and would love to fly in his spare time. He was an active member of the QB organization. Mike was also very active in the Boy Scouts of America. He was recognized for his contributions with the prestigious North Star award in 2019. Mike moved to Manlius in 1975 when he bought RH Schaub and Associates. He successfully ran this business for 48 years up to the time of his death. In his spare time he love to spend summers up at a his fishing camp in Lake Temagami Canada and at the lake house In Speculator. This past year he became a resident of the Loretto Borer Memory Care Facility and quickly became family to the staff and residents.
Mike is survived by his wife Ellen, brother Thomas (Wynne), and his sons Perry ’79 (Marie), Scott (Debra), Kevin (Lise) and Wayne (Sandra). He has 7 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren.
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Roberta Amy “Becky” Bailey on June 16, 2023. Roberta A. (Becky) Bailey, 89, of Meadville, passed away June 16, 2023 at Meadville Medical Center surrounded by her loving family following a lengthy and courageous battle with cancer.
She was born October 6, 1933 in Milwaukee, WI, a daughter of Robert N. and Edna Guyot Amy. She married Dr. Alan D. Bailey ’53 July 30, 1955.
Becky was a 1951 graduate of Meadville High School and a 1955 graduate of Allegheny College with a double bachelor’s degree in sociology and elementary education. She worked as an elementary school teacher for several years at Crawford Central School District.
A member of Stone United Methodist Church, she was also a member of Alpha Gamma Delta Sorority at Allegheny College, Meadville and Hilltop Garden Clubs and the YMCA, participating in Silver Sneakers, swim, and exercise classes. Becky actively supported her children’s activities including the Meadville H.S. boys swim team. She enjoyed antiques, golfing, playing in two bridge clubs, wintering on the Gulf Coast for 25 years, being a Docent at the Kenneth Beers Log Cabin and the Baldwin Reynolds House, and as a volunteer grandmother.
Survivors, in addition to her loving husband Alan, include three sons, Dr. Todd Bailey ’78 (Sheree Shorey) of Meadville, Bret Bailey (Vicki) of Ormond Beach, FL, and Matthew Bailey ’83 (Rusty) of Orlando, FL; seven grandchildren, Aaron Bailey (Michelle), Andrew Bailey (Ryann), Ethan Bailey (Elspeth), Chelsea McCoy (Joel), Amber Denney (Michael), John Burns, and Emily Burns; and nine great-grandchildren, Cameron, Alex, Charlotte, Alex (Morty), Brooklyn, Ava, Brody, Eloise, and Astria.
She was preceded in death by her parents and an infant granddaughter, Isabel Amy McCoy.
Jean Ann Christman Kalberer on July 3, 2023. JEAN ANN CHRISTMAN KALBERER, born on September 5, 1933 in Warren, Ohio, passed to God at the age of 89, on July 3, 2023, at her home in Gates Mills, Ohio. For 68 years, Jean has been the cherished wife of Walter; loving mother of Gwenn (John Winkhaus), Lori, Christa (Jeffrey Goodell) and Lisa (Samuel Landau); adored grandmother of Lea Wildermuth, Megan Winkhaus, Jean, Evan, Joseph, Charlton, Delaney and Keegan Goodell, and Madeleine, Lucy, Nathaniel, Charlotte and Walter Landau; dear sister of David Christman (Brenda) and caring aunt to many. Jean is the beloved daughter of the late Charles and Virginia Rose Christman.
Jean graduated Cum Laude in 1955 from what is now Case Western Reserve University, and in 1981, at the age of 48, she earned her JD at the CWRU School of Law
Jean loved to travel. She and Walter visited a myriad of countries, experiencing diverse cultures and wildlife around the world, and shared their love of excursions with friends and family alike.
Walter and Jean are known for their philanthropy, particularly their development support within the greater Cleveland area. Through her work on several boards, Jean led giving drives and capital campaigns to generate funding for the music and arts, cultures, museums, and gardens of Cleveland. With generous and broad donor initiatives from the Walter and Jean Kalberer Foundation, Jean and Walter have challenged donors to give more to the Cleveland Museum of Art, Cleveland Botanical Gardens, Holden Arboretum, Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, Cleveland Orchestra and Cleveland Play House. Jean was also proud to support the Maltz Museum and Ideastream Public Media.Cleveland has been Jeans home since 1974. With her steadfast friends and dedication to her community and its enriching institutions, she tirelessly worked as a passionate Cleveland advocate.
Joseph F. Riesenman on June 22, 2023. We are sad to announce that on June 22, 2023, at the age of 89, Joseph F. Riesenman of West Milford, New Jersey, born in Franklin, Pennsylvania passed away.
He was predeceased by : his wife Doris Forshay Riesenman ’55; his son John T. Riesenman; and his sister Catherine Patricia Riesenman. He is survived by : his children, Ann E. Riesenman and Dr. Joseph; his siblings, Robert Riesenman (England) of London and Marion O’Leary of State College, PA; his daughter-in-law Noelle; and his grandchildren, Matthew and Isabel.
Mary Lou Robinson Seamens on July 9, 2023. Mary Lou Seamens of Gettysburg joined her family in heaven on Sunday, July 9, 2023, at peace and with her adult children in attendance, after a short battle with cancer. Mary Lou, age 89, was born in Boston, Massachusetts, in March 1934, the fourth of four children. In 1941, she moved with her family to Pittsburgh when her father accepted a position with US Steel. She graduated from Sewickley High School in 1951 and matriculated at Allegheny College, Meadville, Pa.
Mary Lou married Howard Seamens of Greensburg and began building a family. In 1955, Howard was commissioned in the United States Air Force and Mary Lou began her first career as military spouse, raising her family through multiple assignments in the US and overseas. She was involved in volunteerism for the next 20 years, supporting the American Red Cross and other causes. She was a regular blood donor earning her 10-gallon pin. ML was an avid bowler and the strength of multiple teams, achieving a 197 average.
Her family moved to Gettysburg in 1967, settling in Seven Stars. In 1970, she completed her college degree and graduated from Gettysburg College. After divorcing, she began her next chapter in life as a career woman.
Mary Lou worked at Gettysburg College in fund raising and went on to be the director of the Gettysburg YWCA. She oversaw fundraising for the prospective recreational center and then managed the day-to-day operations of the beautiful facility we know today. Afterward, she became executive director of the Adams County Red Cross, a position she held for over 20 years. She led disaster relief, blood services, taught CPR classes and other lifesaving skills, aided military families, and built a network of volunteers, donors, and partners. In 1989, she spent three weeks in South Carolina providing disaster relief after Hurricane Hugo.
Mary Lou was an Exchange Club member, serving as an officer for many years. She spearheaded their Boost PA Day for many years, during which an unsuspecting tourist is ‘nabbed’ by a police officer and treated to a day’s deluxe tourist experience of all the wonderful Gettysburg attractions at no expense. She also led or served other programs including the yearly Apple Harvest Festival fundraising booth.
Mary Lou was a proud and energetic member of the Gettysburg Presbyterian Church (GPC) for 56 years. She was a devoted choir member; her alto voice being a staple of the choir. She also sang with the Gettysburg Community Chorus. As a faithful Christian, she served Gettysburg Presbyterian as an Elder on Session, a Stephen Minister, Sunday school teacher, youth ministry leader, a member of Presbyterian Women’s group, along with many other leadership and volunteer roles.
Often, Mary Lou would emcee church gatherings and potluck dinners. She participated in mission trips to include a medical mission trip to Honduras in the 70s. She offered her expertise as a Gettysburg historian and guide giving tours of the church and sharing the storied past of GPC as a Civil War field hospital, the home church to Ike and Mamie Eisenhower and hosting a political rally with Abraham Lincoln in attendance.
Mary Lou’s tireless volunteerism and community support extends far beyond what can be offered in brief. Much of her labor was behind the scenes and without fanfare.
Mary Lou was preceded in death by her parents, John F. and Elsie Moir Robinson; her siblings, Jack Robinson ’47, Jill Robinson Bengston, and Gordon Robinson; and her daughter, Catheryn Seamens (Kenneth) O’Meara. Surviving are Howard ’76 (Charlene McCartney) Seamens Jr., Patricia Seamens (Steve) Filus, and John (Susan Hering) Seamens; 10 grandchildren; and 16 great-grandchildren.
Henry Benton Suhr Jr. on October 12, 2023, Alumnus and Trustee Emeritus
Suhr began serving on the Allegheny College Board of Trustees in 1971 and was named Trustee emeritus in 1996.
He attended Oil City schools and graduated from the Hill School at Pottstown in 1951. He went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in economics from Allegheny. He served from 1955-57 in the U.S. Army and continued with the Army Reserves until 1967 at which time he held the rank of captain. Up until the time he died he maintained his personal and family business offices in Oil City.
Suhr is survived by his wife of 67 years, Beverly Lauffer Suhr; his children, Douglas Henry Suhr ’84 and his wife, Sarah; Henry “Hank” Benton Suhr III ’88 and his wife, Renee; Elizabeth Suhr Heisey ’88; and four grandchildren.
Taras G. Szmagala on June 7, 2023. TARAS G. SZMAGALA age 90, passed away June 7th, 2023. Beloved husband of 64 years to Katherine Szmagala (nee Herman); loving father of Taras Szmagala and his wife Helen Jarem. Dear grandfather of Gregory Szmagala. Loving brother of Mary Bobeczko (deceased) and Estelle Woloshyn (deceased).
Imelda Anne McNamara Way on August 7, 2023. Imelda Anne Way was born in North Hornell, NY on December 27, 1933 to the late Edward P. and Alma May (Falle) McNamara. She passed away on August 7, 2023 at Brookdale Senior Living. She was a member of First Presbyterian Church and the A.A.U.W. She graduated from Allegheny College.
Survivors include her husband John H. Way ’54, M.D. who she married June 6, 1955, five children: Jeffrey C. (Pamela Silver) Way, Kathleen M. (Robert Molloy) Way, Ellen R. Way, Douglas E. Way, and Brian H. (Katharina) Way, and seven grandchildren.
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William E. Bowser on July 19, 2023. William E. Bowser, of Kalamazoo, Mich., 89, died on Wednesday, July 19, 2023. Bill was born March 23, 1934, in Butler, to Earl and Doris (Gray) Bowser. A wonderful student and lifelong learner, Bill was president of his high school senior class and went on to earn his bachelor’s degree in economics from Allegheny College in 1956. His diligence was rewarded with a full-ride scholarship to University of Michigan Law School, from which he graduated in 1959. Bill’s practice focused on corporate and real estate law in Kalamazoo from 1960 until his retirement in 2015. He was most proud to have earned his certificate of admission to argue cases in front of the Supreme Court, though such a case never came to him.
An avid sailor, Bill handcrafted beautiful model ships and enjoyed reading about the Great Lakes. He also devoted a great deal of time learning about the history of the United States. Always looking to build relationships in the community, Bill became instrumental in establishing the Kalamazoo chapter of Habitat for Humanity.
Bill was preceded in death by his adoring wife, Sheila; and his siblings, Vivian Miller, Judith White and James Bowser.
Surviving are his children, of whom he was so proud, Carrie (Rachel) Bowser, Anne ’84 (Jim) Lewis and Bill (Julie) Bowser; his grandchildren, Bill and Jacob; and many nieces and nephews.
Clifford Alan Morton on September 28, 2023. The former Bethel Park Mayor, Clifford Alan Morton, age 90, passed away peacefully on Thursday, September 28th in the Artis Memory Care Facility in Bethel Park. He was born on September 23, 1933, to Jay Sidney and Irene Stover, and grew up in farm country in northern Pennsylvania, where he attended Spartanburg High School. He attended Allegheny College as a freshman where he met his wife, Joan Mitchell ’56. After serving three years in the Marine Corps, he went on to receive his bachelor’s degree from Washington and Jefferson College, and later his master’s from Indiana University of Pennsylvania. He is survived by his beloved wife of 67 years Joan Mitchell Morton; devoted sons, Mitchell Jay ’84 (Karen), and Shawn Alan (Kelly); grandchildren, Jarrett Morton, Alayna (Cameron) Carver, Tanner Morton, Sarah (Michael) Maynard, Anna Morton, Matthew Turner, and Justin Turner (Melissa); and 12 great-grandchildren. Deceased in addition to his parents, are sisters, Willa Morton, and Carol (William) Phillips; and an infant granddaughter, Brittany Morton. Surviving is a brother, William (Connie) Morton; and a sister, Linda (Phillip) Cotter. Cliff was a devoted and loving husband, father, and grandfather. He enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren as well as his extended family. He always enjoyed playing, watching, and coaching his sons in many sports, particularly baseball and football. Many weekends were spent at Lake Seneca, Ohio, where the family enjoyed camping, boating, water skiing, fishing, and golfing. Cliff was a member of the Ruthfred Lutheran Church in Bethel Park where he, many times, served as trustee. He loved participating in a men’s weekly church bible study called “Journey through the Word.” Through the years, Cliff held a variety of positions that qualified him to run for the mayor’s position in 1998. Serving 16 years as mayor, Cliff was dedicated to serving his community and implemented many improvements and programs benefiting his community. These programs include Bethel Park beautification projects, utilizing volunteers, Boy Scouts, and residents; the decorative banner program; organized a holiday lighting display contest including a winner from each ward. The most popular was the 90-plus club recognizing senior citizen birthdays and recognizing them at an annual luncheon to honor their milestone. These programs are still in effect today thanks to him. He also contributed articles to the Bethel Park Magazine. Prior to his mayoral position, he served seven months working as a seaman on the Great Lakes; five years teaching English in the Bethel Park junior and senior school district; 18 years employed at U.S. Steel as a sales service supervisor (retired); a six-year term on Bethel Park School Board; 10 years as owner of (Wood Whims), a custom-made wood shop; a passion for woodworking skills he passed onto his sons. He was also employed by Paul Henney Funeral Home, where he was a driver and greeter. He was also a member of the Historical Society; Elks Club, American Legion; and former member of the Lion’s Club and Gideons. He was also part of the Allegheny County, and PA, State Mayor Association; and a trustee of the Ruthfred Lutheran Church and the Bethel Park Foundation.
Mary Louisa Soisson Nettrour on November 28, 2023. Mary Louisa Soisson Nettrour, passed away peacefully on November 28, 2023, at the age of 89. She was the daughter of William and Pauline Soisson of Connellsville, PA and Naples, FL and the oldest of seven siblings. She was the devoted wife of the late Charles Nettrour ’54, who she met at Allegheny College. They were married 65 years and had three daughters; Christine Nettrour, Sandra Rothwell, and Barbara Lee. Three grandchildren; Alexander Lee ’10, Jocelyn Lee and Kendall Greene. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews.
She was an avid reader, and loved travel, bridge and volunteer work. Chief of them was being a docent at Hartwood Acres, Passavant Hospital and Lawnvue Acres Care Home.
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Thomas Vath Dolan on June 3, 2023. Thomas Vath Dolan, 88, of Bluffton, South Carolina, passed away on June 3, 2023, due to complications associated with heart failure.
Tom was born on May 17, 1935, to Thomas William and Thelma Vath Dolan in Sharon, Pennsylvania. After graduating from West View High School in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, in 1953, he went on to study biology at Allegheny College in Meadville, Pennsylvania, where he was a proud member of Phi Delta Theta fraternity. While at Allegheny, Tom joined the U.S. Air Force (USAF) Reserve Officers’ Training Corp and, after graduation in 1957, he received his commission as a Second Lieutenant in the USAF. He attended flight school in Florida after graduation and went on to serve in the Air Force for 6 years.
Tom met his wife, Ruth Doeffinger, while at Allegheny and they wed upon her graduation in 1960. Together they moved to Baudette, Minnesota, where they lived for 2 years before relocating to Hof, Germany. Tom retired from the USAF as a Captain in 1963 and he and Ruth returned to Sharpsville, Pennsylvania, where they had two children, Kirstin Lee and Thomas Clark Dolan. Tom worked in the transportation logistics industry until his retirement in 1997.
After their retirement, Tom and Ruth moved to Bluffton, South Carolina, to enjoy life as snowbirds. They spent the summer at their beloved summer cottage on the St. Lawrence River in Clayton, New York, and enjoyed not having to shovel snow in Bluffton in the winter. They also enjoyed their annual cruise in the Caribbean each winter.
Tom’s family meant more to him than anything else in the world. He was devoted to his wife, children, grandchildren, and a dog and several cats over the years. He loved nature and liked to boat and fish and dabbled in ornithology. Tom was also a lover of music and sang and directed choirs his whole life. He played the trumpet and had perfect pitch. He enjoyed sharing his love of music with his church family wherever he lived. He was a member of the Sharpsville United Methodist Church and, upon moving to Bluffton, joined St. Luke’s United Methodist Church. He was instrumental in St. Luke’s purchasing a new organ in 2007; one that he first heard being played in a little church while visiting Turks and Caicos on a cruise.
Anyone who knew Tom knew that he was a loving husband, father and grandfather. Tom was predeceased by his parents, Tom and Thelma. Tom is survived by his wife Ruth Doeffinger Dolan ’60; children, Kirstin ’86 and Tom ’91; daughter-in-law, Christina ’96; and grandchildren, Alexandria and Thomas Samuel.
Linda Jensen Pointer on July 4, 2023. Linda Pointer, age 88, passed away Tuesday, July 4th at The Forum in Columbus. Born May 12th,1935, in Elizabeth, NJ, to Diana and Emil Jensen, she was preceded in death by her husband of 64 years, Peter, her parents, and younger brother, Dave. She is survived by sons Philip (Kim) and David, granddaughters Katie Pointer, Nicole Jackman and Megan Jackman, and sister Mary Mahon (Jensen). Linda attended Allegheny College, and is a graduate of University of Central Missouri. Linda retired as an executive of several regional insurance companies, and was a partner in her husband Peter’s stock brokerage, Pointer Investments. Linda was a long-time member of the Trinity United Methodist Church.
Dr. Darel Kerr Straub on May 22, 2023. Darel Kerr Straub passed away on May 22, 2023 after a long and full life. Darel was born on May 17, 1935, in Petroleum Center, Pennsylvania. After retiring, he moved back to the family homestead in Hydetown, Pennsylvania. He was 88 years old at the time of his death.
Darel received his Doctorate from University of Florida in Gainesville, Florida and then received his PhD from the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign. Dr. Straub started his career at Allegheny College in Meadville, Pennsylvania before he retired at the end of June 1998 from the University of Pittsburgh in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania with over 30 years in the Department of Chemistry as an Associate Professor of Inorganic Chemistry and well-known teacher of general chemistry. Upon Dr. Straub’s retirement, he was awarded with the Special Phillips Medal in recognition for his many contributions to undergraduate and graduate education within the chemistry department.
Due to his life long quest for learning, Darel was an inquisitive and voracious reader who had a deep knowledge of literature. He had a massive library that crossed all genres of books, literature, music, poetry, art and movies. He also had a great love for research and writing and has written numerous published and unpublished papers and books on scientific and technical information. Darel was an extensive traveler of the world and favored underdeveloped countries and remote areas. Often hiring a guide from an interior village when traveling. He was fluent in multiple languages, which he used in his many travels. He had a love for nature and animals.
In addition to his parents; William and Madeline Straub, Darel was preceded in death by his brothers Bill, Joe, and Peter Straub, and his sister Sherry Lowrie. Darel is survived by his brother Daniel H. Straub and wife Linda, his many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews and all of their families.
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Mary Jo Howard Cornes on September 2, 2023. Mary Jo Howard Cornes, 87, of Sykesville, passed away peacefully on Saturday, September 2, 2023, at Inspirations Memory Care in Westminster. She was the wife of Butch Cornes. Mary Jo was born in St. Marys, PA, on May 9, 1936, to the late Rev. Mark and Margaret Seeley Howard. She grew up in Emporium, PA. In 1952 her family moved to Kane, PA in her junior year of high school where she met her high school sweetheart Butch, with whom she shared 64 years of marriage. Mary Jo graduated from Allegheny College, Meadville, PA in 1958. As a young wife and mother, Mary Jo and her family lived overseas from 1968-1975 in both Athens, Greece and Rome, Italy. She volunteered at her children’s schools, Girl Scouts, women’s guilds and enjoyed traveling. After moving to Carroll County in 1975, Mary Jo taught at Eldersburg Elementary for 24 years, retiring in 2001. She obtained her Master of Education from McDaniel College, formerly Western Maryland College. Upon her retirement, she held a monthly tea at Carroll Lutheran Village and became a Carroll Hospice volunteer. Mary Jo was a woman of strong faith and remained a dedicated member and active volunteer at the Church of the Ascension. In addition to her husband, Mary Jo is survived by her children, daughter Kim Cornes Tompkins ’84 of Eldersburg; son Kevin Cornes and his wife, Faith Couvillon of Mountain Brook, AL.; grandchildren, Andrew Tompkins and wife Cori; Marielle Cornes; Caroline Cornes; and Hudson Cornes; brother Robert “Bob” Howard and wife Judy of Milton, DE; sister-in-law Jeanne Howard of Belair, and many loving nieces, nephews and other family members. In addition to her parents, Mary Jo was predeceased by her brother, Tom Howard.
Antony “Tony” E. Fiorentino on September 6, 2023. Antony (Tony) E Fiorentino (87) of Pensacola, Florida, passed on September 6, 2023, surrounded by friends who loved him. He was preceded in death by his mother, Claire Deiss; his father, Anthony Elmer Fiorentino Sr., and half sister, Maryanne Wickersham.
Tony earned his undergraduate degree in History from Allegheny College in Meadville, Pennsylvania. He then pursued a degree in Law from West Virginia University in 1967. He moved to Pensacola, Florida in 1968 and served his community for several decades as a trial attorney. All the while serving his country as a Lt. Cmdr. in the US Naval Reserves.
Tony was an avid pilot; he owned and operated Coastal Airport in Pensacola, Florida and was known to pilot everything from remote control airplanes to full scale aircraft.
Tony was a philanthropist at heart. He believed in education and assisted many people over the years achieve their dreams in medicine, construction, accounting, and nursing. He was a member of the 1904 Society at Davis and Elkins College in Elkins, West Virginia, where he chaired the drama department in honor of his mother in addition to funding scholarships for students. He was loved by his friends and will be missed.
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Mary Ann Secarea Berg on June 24, 2023. Mary Ann Berg, 85, of Savoy, formerly of Urbana, passed away at 3:01 p.m. Saturday, June 24, 2023, at home, surrounded by family.
She was born on Oct. 15, 1937, in Erie, Pa., the daughter of Valer and Emilia (Verdea) Secarea. She married David Berg on Sept. 1, 1962, in Erie.
Mary Ann is survived by her husband, David; son, Richard Henry Berg of Dallas; daughters, Frances Ann Berg of Albuquerque, N.M., and Rebecca (Thomas) Blakeslee of Vincennes, Ind.; grandson, Robert Blakeslee; and siblings, Rebecca Maganuco of Glencoe, Valer Secarea of Trabuco Canyon, Calif., and Sam Secarea of Elk Grove, Calif.
She was preceded in death by her parents.
Mary Ann graduated from Allegheny College with a bachelor’s degree in mathematics and a master’s degree from Lehigh University. She worked for the University of Illinois as an academic professional in computers and the supercomputer. She was a lifelong learner, an accomplished violinist sitting first chair in the Illini Strings Orchestra, “Nationals” bronze medal winner in swimming, ballerina, black belt in taekwondo and a Master Gardener.
Pauline “Polly” Parker Seely Cosyns on June 11, 2023. Pauline “Polly” Seely Cosyns, nee Parker, age 98, of Tucson, AZ, was born on October 6, 1924 in Chesterfield, IL to Fanny and Fred Parker. She moved to Meadville, PA in 1937 and was a “Senior Six” member of the graduating class of 1942 at Meadville HS. Polly completed an executive secretarial curriculum at Gregg Business College in Chicago, IL in 1943. She obtained her Bachelor of Arts degree cum laude (1959) and her Master of Arts degree in Education (1968) from Allegheny College in Meadville. Polly had diverse career experiences as a proficient legal secretary, a devoted high school social studies teacher, and a successful broker of real estate on Sanibel Island, FL. She retired from the latter in 2000 and in 2003 moved to Tucson, AZ where she volunteered and was a member of the Tucson Botanical Gardens. She was preceded in death by husbands Howard L. Cosyns (2015) and Frederick Seely (1981). She was also a loving sister to older brother Ryland S. Parker (deceased, 2002). Polly is survived by a large extended family scattered across the United States and Europe. Her family was the centerpiece of her life, and Polly made a concerted effort to maintain contact with each and every relative near and far including former students she corresponded with over the years.
Polly lived a long, fulfilling life and was prepared to embark on a new journey. She was kind, generous and a friend to many. She had a sharp wit, great sense of humor and enjoyed her morning coffee, the NY Times, baseball, and conversation, especially when it turned to family dynamics and history. She was a world traveler and lover of the arts. Polly was an impassioned advocate of education as she realized how much it meant for her to get her advanced degrees later in life than most. She was proud of her family and her humble beginnings on a farm in rural Illinois. An avid reader and writer, she diligently maintained a daily journal for more than 80 years! Known for her beautiful penmanship and use of formal language, receiving a card from Polly on a special occasion reminded you how intelligent, caring and wonderful she truly was. Independent to the very end, she traveled to Europe at 92 and continued driving the streets of Tucson until age 97. An inspiration to many and a role model for all, she will be dearly missed by her family. We are eternally grateful she lived for so many years enabling us to create and treasure the wonderful moments spent with her.
Susan Tschirgi King on June 18, 2023. Susan T. King passed from this life on Sunday, June 18, 2023; one day after celebrating her 64th wedding anniversary with her beloved Fred. Hers was a life filled with family, faith, love, laughter, curiosity, adventures and possibilities. Susan was the eldest child of Harvey and Jeanne Tschirgi, born in 1937 in Shanghai China where her father was stationed with US Marine Corps. Growing up in a military family, she lived in many places including Iowa, North Carolina, Virginia, and California. She graduated from Allegheny College in Meadville, PA where she met the love of her life Frederick M. King ’59 after she tripped over his feet (or she kicked his feet there’s still some debate) as she was taking her seat in a shared class their freshman year. After graduation, Susan and Fred met in St. Louis, MO where they eloped to get married. They headed to Lackland AFB in San Antonio, TX so Fred could begin pre-flight training for the US Air Force. Their daughters, Karen & Kathy were born while they were stationed in Spokane, WA. Susan would say her favorite career was a “stay at home” mom but she didn’t stay at home. There was always something to do to help her girls, to help her neighbors and to help her community. She was also a kindergarten teacher in Mountain Home, ID, while Fred was deployed to Vietnam for the fourth time. She worked in a school cafeteria in Northern Virginia for years making sure children were fed nutritious and tasty meals with a ready smile and listening ears if needed. She concluded her working career as a customer service representative for Pentagon Federal Credit Union where she worried about her customers making smart financial choices. Besides having an encyclopedic knowledge of Hollywood trivia, being a voracious reader of newspapers and novels, Susan loved being with her family. She was always ready for whatever plans her family made, from travels, to attending plays and musical events, visiting museums and most importantly attending any activity in which a granddaughter participated. When it came time to truly retire, two sets of granddaughters narrowed the options to Hampton and Minneapolis. The southern Virginia weather beat out Minnesota’s. However, that did not mean there weren’t multiple trips to Minneapolis because things needed to be fair. Each granddaughter needed her Grammy time, and she needed time with her girls. While in Hampton, she became a member of Emmanuel Episcopal Church. There she found another outlet for her love and compassion; becoming a member of the Altar Guild, the Kaiser Reese Circle, Vestry, Counters, Book Club, Bereavement Committee, and the Night’s Welcome Breakfast Crew. She spent her life showing her daughters, sons-in-law, and granddaughters that people are endlessly fascinating and that we all have so much in common if we take the time to ask folks about themselves; as many grocery line, sporting event, waiting room conversations will attest. Who knows, there may be a way we can all be of help to others if we follow Susan’s example. Finally, when her body became too limited for her soul, she returned home to God where she can love, laugh, and share to her fullest. In God’s good time, she is waiting for her beloved and often bemused husband Fred, her favorite eldest daughter Karen Harrington and her favorite youngest daughter Kathy Martin; her favorite naval/teacher son-in-law Keith Harrington and her favorite lawyer son-in-law George Martin; her favorite eldest granddaughter Grace Harrington; her favorite Hong Kong born granddaughter Taylor Martin; her favorite Virginia born granddaughter Olivia Harrington; her favorite youngest granddaughter Sophia Martin; and her precious pup Carlotta.
Theodore R. “Ted” LeSuer on July 1, 2023. Theodore R. “Ted” LeSuer, age 89, of Maple Ln., S. Shenango Twp., Jamestown, PA passed away Saturday morning July 1, 2023 in his residence. He was born in Union City on September 6, 1933 to Karl and Iva (Van Epps) LeSuer. Ted was a 1951 graduate of Union City High School, received his Bachelor’s Degree in Education from Edinboro University and received his Master’s Degree in Education and Administration from Kent State University. He served in the U. S. Army from 1953-1955. Ted retired as a Real Estate Agent in Lorain County, OH after 10 years of employment and had also served as the Civil Service Director for the city of Lorain. He had also worked as a guidance counselor for Elyria Catholic High School, served as the principal for Brookside High School, assistant principal for Riverside High School and English and Math teacher at Mentor Junior High School. Ted was a current member of the Westford United Methodist Church and he had taught Sunday School within the Methodist Church for 65 years. He served as a Boy Scout Troop Leader. Ted was an avid Cleveland Sports fan and he also enjoyed fishing, campfires and canoeing. On February 6, 1960, he married the former Barbara J Ruffner, she survives. Also surviving is a daughter Deborah S LeSuer of Amherst, OH; three sons Mark D LeSuer and his wife Lisa of Ewing, KY, Douglas J LeSuer of Jamestown, PA, and Kevin T LeSuer and his companion Vanessa Perez of University Heights, OH; two sisters Betty Wright (Delmar) of Franklin, PA and Mary Ring of The Villages, FL, a brother-in-law; Donald Ruffner of Greenville, PA and a granddaughter; Jesseca LeSuer. He was preceded in death by his parents, two sisters, and four brothers.
Sarah A. Lucas Madej on October 15, 2023. Sarah A. Madej (nee Lucas), 85, entered into rest Sunday, October 15, 2023. She was born on December 2, 1937 in Meadville, Pennsylvania.
Sarah graduated from Meadville High School Class of 1955 and then attended and graduated from Allegheny College in 1959. She was a secretary for Culverson & Dempsey Law Firm in Meadville, and then later for Squires, Sanders and Dempsey in Cleveland. She also worked for the Lakewood Board of Education for over 17 years.
Sarah enjoyed poetry, Broadway shows, traveling, reading and ‘Girls Trips.’
She is survived by her husband of 58 years, Bernard R. Madej; children, Laura (William) Exley and Gary (Peggy) Madej; grandchildren, Ian and Corinne; and a sister, Mary (Jack) Lybarger.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Walter and Edna (nee Russell) Lucas.
Nancy Blomquist Shattuck on August 12, 2023. Nancy Blomquist Shattuck, 86 years old of Mars, PA, was an extraordinary mother, aunt, grandmother, and great grandmother. She left this world peacefully on August 12, 2023 in Wexford, PA.
She was born May 22, 1937 to the late James Alfred and Audrey Sears Blomquist of North Warren, PA where she lived most of her life. After graduating from Warren High School, she attended Allegheny College and Jamestown Business College.
While raising her children as a single mother in North Warren, she worked in the loan department of Pennbank, was active in the Daughters of the American Revolution, was a Notary Public, coached girl’s softball, and cared for her elderly parents, aunts, and uncle.
When Nancy retired from full-time work and moved to Mars, PA she was able to pursue her calling, caring for and working with children. She worked as a nanny for various loving families over the years and in church nurseries at Memorial Park Church and Valencia Presbyterian Church. Most of all, she was always there for her grandchildren and prioritized attending their activities, taking them on special outings, and showering them with love.
In recent years, Nancy was active in the PennMar Plaza apartment building association where she resided. She acted as board president for several years, planned monthly resident parties, organized the weekly Steelers football game pools, and provided musical support for the monthly Caring Hearts Program. She was always there for her neighbors, providing support for whatever was needed be it transportation, pet assistance, shopping or just a listening ear. She was sad when she had to move next door to St. John’s Specialty Care Center, but kept her friends close in her heart.
Committed to her Presbyterian faith, Nancy was a member of North Warren Presbyterian Church until she joined Valencia Presbyterian Church upon moving to Mars. She was an avid sports fan following the Cincinnati “Big Red Machine” baseball team in the 1970s and later the Pittsburgh Pirates and Pittsburgh Steelers. Nancy loved to read, sing, dance, draw, paint, work on her family’s genealogy, and travel – especially to anywhere near the ocean. She loved the water and spent every summer of her childhood and young adult life at her family’s cottage at Cheney’s Point on Chautauqua Lake. She also fostered a passion for animals, loving many pet cats over the years, decorating her homes in chicken and rooster decor, and volunteering at Animal Friends in Pittsburgh.
Nancy demonstrated strength in many ways, including surviving breast cancer twice. Her life was full of love, laughter, faith, and family, which she treasured above all else. Her love for them is matched only by their love for her and they will forever hold dear her memory.
She is survived by her children John R. (Mary Pat) Shattuck, Jr. of Warren, PA and Tammy (Stephen) Hawbaker of Gibsonia, PA; one sister, Barbara Kocher of Honey Brook, PA.
She was blessed with seven grandchildren – Jade Shattuck (Michael) Burrus, Robin Hawbaker (Kevin) Elrod, Tara N. Shattuck, Megan Hawbaker (Jordan) Oeler, Coleton Hawbaker, Ryan Shattuck and Troy (Emily) Shattuck; four great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews, grand and great grand nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her sister Rachel Blomquist Loree and nephew Thomas Loree.
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Ann Jones Gerace on September 24, 2023, Alumna and Former Trustee
Gerace served on the Allegheny College Board of Trustees from 2002-2006.
Gerace served as a proud Highlander at Baldwin High School and went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in education from Allegheny, graduating as the class valedictorian and serving as president of the Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority. She further pursued her education at Carnegie Mellon University, where she obtained a master’s in public management from the Heinz School in 1996.
Gerace began her career as a school teacher in Nassau, New York. She then returned to Pittsburgh, where she married Samuel P. Gerace ’58 and taught elementary education in the Baldwin-Whitehall School District. She followed in her mother’s footsteps by serving in various leadership roles with the Girl Scouts of Southwestern Pennsylvania. Her dedication to conservation and sustainable practices led her to Conservation Consultants Inc. (CCI), where she served in the role of executive director for 24 years.
Gerace is survived by her beloved sister, Mary Lou Herrold (Dan); and her children, Samuel P. Gerace (Lynne), Julie A. Doumont (Verne), Thomas A. Gerace, and Kristin L. Gerace. She also leaves behind several grandchildren and many nephews, nieces, cousins, and cherished friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, Thomas Lewis Jones Sr. ’30 and Anna Mae (Zitzman) Jones; her brother, Thomas Lewis Jones Jr. ’64; and Samuel P. Gerace Sr.
Ann Crandall Hills on September 30, 2023. Ann Crandall Hills of Lakewood, WA, passed away on Saturday, September 30, 2023.
She was born in Erie, PA, on October 25, 1938, the daughter of the late Thomas Harold and Charlotte T. Withrow Crandall, and the sister of older brother, Tom, and younger sister, Martha.
Ann graduated from Academy High School in 1956 and went on to attend Allegheny College in Meadville, PA, before leaving school to marry her high-school sweetheart, James W. (Jim) Hills, provide for their needs as he attended Air Force ROTC, and support him through his Air Force career as they moved to Enid, OK, Waco, TX, and Lakewood, WA. Later in life, Ann earned a computer programming degree which she used for many years while working for Boeing.
Ann was very involved in her children’s schooling and activities. She was extremely active in the Parent Teacher Association (PTA) at Tyee Park Elementary School, including serving as its President, and was very involved in her kid’s swim teams, sitting poolside or supporting them and their teammates by helping organize and run countless swim meets.
Ann was active in her grandchildren’s lives as well, providing after-school care for several of them, regularly visiting those not living in Washington State, and twice surprising them with trips to Disney World, giving them lifelong memories of the excitement and joy they experienced being together.
Ann loved being surrounded by family and her home always remained the gathering place for family activities and meals anytime her children or grandchildren would visit from out of town. Extended family was important, too, so Ann was the driving force behind regular Crandall family reunions.
Beyond family activities, Ann was involved in the community as well. She worshiped with her church, United Methodist Church in Lakewood, where she was the treasurer for several years; was very active in Al-Anon, serving in multiple roles at the local, state, and national level; and enjoyed scrapbooking both on her own and as a consultant for Creative Memories, frequently hosting scrapbooking parties both in her home and as get-away weekends at the ocean.
Ann is survived by her older brother Thomas H. Crandall (Janet), of Erie, PA; her four children, Jamie Hills (Lynn), of Rogers, AR, Geoff Hills (Judy Cashen), of Colorado Springs, CO, Virginia Preston (Ralph), of Tacoma, WA, and Kerry Hills (Heather), of Lakewood, WA; ten grandchildren; and one great grandson.
Victor “Vic” Paul Kress on July 22, 2023. Victor Paul Kress drove his precious convertible (top down, of course) for the last time Saturday, July 22, 2023.
Born August 8, 1938 to Victor Frank ’27 and Helen Gail Kress, he graduated from St. Agatha’s High School (now Seton) and Allegheny College, and served in the Pennsylvania Army National Guard and the Air National Guard in Vienna, Ohio.
Graduating from Allegheny College, he was a successful realtor, investment property specialist and insurance agent, with Vic Kress Real Estate for a half century. He was an investor in the City of Meadville. Starting at the age of 22, over the years, he owned and managed many rental properties in the city he loved.
All that aside, his true passion was sports. At St. Agatha’s he was a 1,000-point scorer and leading rebounder. At Allegheny he held a long-standing record, with 23 rebounds in a game against W & J and is currently tied for fourth place for all time. He coached St. Brigid’s grade school basketball, the Hawks, for three years and was gratified that many of his proteges ended up playing for MASH. He umpired little league baseball at Odd Fellows field, and co-organized/managed the first women’s adult softball team, the Chickadees – also known as ‘Vic’s Chicks.’ He pitched fast-pitch softball for the Red Barn and Cottage restaurants for 15 years and threw a mean knuckleball and changeup but regretted only having one no-hitter in his career. Vic Kress Real Estate Specialists men’s basketball travel team dominated the YMCA adult league for years. Vic’s personal high was blocking three of all-pro Gus Johnson’s (a guard with the San Francisco Warriors) shots in an Ohio tournament. His personal low was going for a rebound in a benefit game and being shoved under the basket by all-pro Jim Kanicki (300 lb. defensive tackle for the Cleveland Browns). Briefly losing his sanity, Vic drove his elbow into Kanicki and both went to the floor creating a kerfuffle. Good thing for him, it was quickly broken up.
A part-time freelance sports writer and columnist, he worked under three sports editors at the Meadville Tribune (Chuck Anderson, John Wellington, and Craig Phillips). For over a decade he covered top games of the week for local high school, county league and college basketball and football, and wrote the prediction column “Vic’s Pic’s” for NFL games. Always a loyal Cleveland fan, he also rooted for Notre Dame.
In 1990, Ray Horner, a popular local play-by-play announcer at WMGW/Forever Broadcasting, invited Vic to leave his writing gig to be his co-anchor for high school and Allegheny College sports on the radio. Vic did, and was a color analyst for more than 1,000 games.
His sense of humor was “off the charts”. He was self-deprecating but could trash-talk with the best. He had a penchant for giving nick names. Some of his favorites: Pogo Joe, Blue Shoes Hughes, Whispering Smith, Mouse Mottillo and his wife Minnie Mouse. When his brother Richard Bryan was born, Vic called his brother ‘Biff’, a name which stuck.
He got his “handle” “the Professor” from now deceased Gary Clark (also a local radio personality at WMGW). While some might have thought it scholarly, it was actually after Jerry Lewis’ absent-minded professor, appropriate because Vic was always looking for his keys, clipboard, glasses. He later elevated the title to “Professor of Gibberish”.
He was a fierce competitor, not only in sports and business, but he loved to play – and win at poker and 500 bid … and scrabble with Karen. He loved to sport his self-proclaimed title, World Backgammon Champion, especially around the pool in Marco Island. That is not mentioning a receiver of many tennis, racquetball, volleyball and even paddleball honors.
In 1985 Vic married Karen Kusmierek, a Kittanning girl who swept him off his feet and was the love of his life. Besides Karen, he is survived by his sister Patricia Cotta and her husband Dan of Plymouth, MA and, sister Karen Sherman and her husband Craig of Erie, CO, and brother Richard (Biff) Kress and his wife Victoria of Meadville, brother and sister-in-law Joseph and Karen Kusmierek of Warren, OH.
He is also survived by his nephews David Cotta and his wife Rachel, Dominic and Anthony Loiacona and nieces Courtney Cotta, Kendra Fryburg, Kristen and her husband Justin Zaitz, Theresa McKnight, Jennifer Kusmierek.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Kimberly Prager ’68, and “Lil’ Bear, his loving Australian Shepherd.
Frances Dalzell Miller on June 14, 2023. Frances D. Miller, age 85, of Center Twp., passed away at UPMC Mercy on June 14, 2023, after a recent illness. Born in Monaca on May 5, 1938, she was the daughter of the late Charles and Audrey (Hunter) Dalzell.
In addition to her parents, Fran was preceded in death in 2007 by her beloved husband of 45 years, John, their longtime best friends Ernie and Judy Martin, and her faithful canine companion Cassie.
After graduating from Monaca High School Class of 1956 and earning a teaching degree at Allegheny College, Fran taught fifth-grade English and Mathematics at Center Area School District in the 1960’s until she became a mother. She also was a Patricia Gaile cosmetics sales representative, a top agent at E.A. Martin Real Estate, and co-owner of Miller’s Flowers & Gifts.
Fran was a past president and member of the Beaver County Board of Realtors. Recognitions included Beaver County Realtor of the Year and winner of an ATHENA Award of Beaver County. She was also a member of the Order of the Eastern Star, and, most proudly, dedicated her time and creative talent to the Center Civic Women’s Club. She was a CCWC member since its founding in 1962, taking on many leadership posts over the years including club president, choir director, and annual fashion show fundraiser chairwoman. She also led the creation and supported the continued success of its impactful “CCWC Cancer Fund at Heritage Valley” charity which has raised more than $460,000 and served more than 1,500 local women over the past 24 years. She treasured her lifelong CCWC and 50’s+ card playing friends.
Fran is survived by her son Gregory, of Aliquippa, daughter Lauren, of Exton, grandson Corvin (Brittany) and great-grandson Colton, all of Aliquippa, along with her Vince family nieces and nephew.
Heartfelt thanks to her talented healthcare team at UPMC Mercy; caregivers Jessica Lawrence, Cindy Boff, and Nancy Schafer; and the devoted care and company from Brittany, Corvin, and Greg over the past eight months.
Sally Jane “Bess” Welch Philip on April 13, 2023. Sally Jane “Bess” Philip, 84, of Hilton Head Island, SC passed away Thursday, April 13, 2023 at her home. Bess was a kind and caring soul. She was born May 16, 1938 to the late Wendell Welch and Dorothy Blue Welch in Ford City, PA, where she grew up. Bess went on to pursue nursing at the Columbia Presbyterian Medical Center in New York, where she met the love of her life, Dr. James Philip. They married in 1960. After incredibly fulfilling careers, they moved to Hilton Head Island in 1995. Bess gave her entire life to serving others as a nurse and a friend. Bess is survived by her husband of 62 years, Dr. James Philip; son, Dr. Jeff Philip (Dr. Lori Philip) of Cincinnati, OH; daughter, Alison Delisio (Scott) of Cleveland, OH; brother, Bob Welch (Marlene) of Ford City, PA; and grandchildren, Andrew, Allie, Nicholas, Zachary, and Jake.
Harry Smith on July 16, 2023. Harry Smith, of Cedar Crest Village in Pompton Plains, NJ, passed away on July 16, 2023. Previously Harry and his wife Barbara lived in Ramsey for 47 years.
Born in Buffalo, NY, Harry was the son of Anne and Harry Smith. His early schooling was in Buffalo, where he graduated high school in 1956. Harry then graduated from Allegheny College in 1960.
While in High School, Harry joined the Army Reserve as a Private. He continued to serve while in college and was called to Active Duty to serve during the Berlin Crisis. Returning home, he was discharged as a Staff Sergeant.
Harry met Barbara Keefe, a Syracuse student, at the company where he was a sales trainee. They got engaged during Christmas 1964 and married in 1965.
They moved to Ramsey and purchased their first of four homes in Ramsey. Their sons Brad and Dan were both born in Ramsey. Brad lives in Ramsey with daughters Alexa and Brielle. Brad retired from the Ramsey Police Department after 25 years. Dan and his wife, Wendy, and their children, Nick and Emilia, live in Attleboro, MA. Dan is a computer programmer for Capital Crossing in Wellesly, MA.
During their stay in Ramsey, Harry served on the Ramsey Borough Council with elections to a 1 year and a 3 year term. He also served on the Board of Adjustment, Planning Board, the Shade Tree Commission and was the Recycling Coordinator.
Harry was always in sales, the last 25 as a partner in D&H Enterprises as a manufacturer’s representative.
He lived at Cedar Crest with his wife, Barbara, until her passing in 2021. During his time at Cedar Crest, he served on the Resident Advisory Council for 3 years.
Harry and Barbara enjoyed traveling in the US and Europe, but especially the years the family spent at the beach in North Carolina.
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Alan Ansell on March 27, 2023.
Richard A. Valone Sr. on April 22, 2023.
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David J. Lipsitz on September 1, 2023. David J. Lipsitz, 82, of Millcreek, PA and Fort Myers, FL, passed away on Friday, September 1, 2023, at Manchester Commons. He was born in Pittsburgh, a son of the late Ben and Selma (Leff) Lipsitz, and grew up in Beaver, PA.
A graduate of Allegheny College, David served as Captain in the U.S. Air Force. He was stationed in Bangkok, Thailand and Frankfurt, Germany, and taught ROTC at Duquesne University. He married his Beaver High School sweetheart, Judy (Roberts). From the age of 16, he was as much a part of the Roberts family as his own. He loved golfing, reading, spending time in his paradise of Fort Myers, the Steelers, Twizzlers, music, good food, and, most of all, getting to see his grandchildren, whom he adored. He was a member and served on the boards of Lakeview Country Club in Northeast and Temple Anshe Hesed in Erie and quietly gave his time to help others. He had many wonderful friends who, along with his family, enriched his life and played starring roles in his escapades of laughter and love.
David began working at age 13 at the Hippity Hop in Bridgewater, PA. He was a stockbroker at Singer, Dean and Scribner in Pittsburgh and worked at the Juvenile Shoe Shop at the Beaver Valley Mall. In 1973, he moved to Erie to open one of the first stores in the Millcreek Mall, Jay’s Stride Rite Bootery, where he spent many years fitting children in shoes and smiling and waving to all who walked by. In the 1990s, he became a financial advisor with Parker Hunter, now Janney Montgomery Scott, where he remained happily employed until his official retirement date Friday.
In addition to his parents, David was preceded in death by his brother, Michael Lipsitz, his parents in law, Ewing and Claire Roberts, and his brother-in-law Don Roberts. Survivors include Judy, his loving wife of nearly 61 years; his children, Susan Lipsitz ’88 of Ashland, MA and Jay Lipsitz (Lori) of Johns Creek, GA; his four grandchildren, Emily and Daniel Schwartz and Will and Jack Lipsitz; sister Ellen Callahan (Pat); sister-in-law Linda Bulgach; brother-in-law Rich Roberts (Diane) and many loving nieces, nephews and cousins.
Roger Murray Smith on October 29, 2023. On October 29, 2023 Roger Murray Smith, 83, passed away peacefully with his daughters, sons in- law and grandchildren by his side. Laughter, tears and smiles filled the room and ushered him to heaven.
Born September 9, 1940 to Florence and Walter Smith, Roger was raised in Laurel Beach, CT with his brothers Walter and Tommy.
After graduating from Allegheny College Roger went to work for Aetna where he had a successful 31 year career. He began as a field sales associate in Detroit and retired as the Head of Pensions and Financial services in Hartford CT.
In Old Lyme he and his wife Marcia volunteered for many organizations. These included High Hopes Therapeutic Riding Center, the Old Lyme Congregational Church, Lyme’s Youth Service Bureau, and The Phoebe Griffin Noyes Library. In honor of his commitment to service, he was named Old Lyme’s Citizen of the Year in 2021 for his charitable work.
Roger was never happier than when he was surrounded by the people he loved. He never discouraged his daughters in their diverse (and sometimes challenging for him) professional and personal pursuits. Rather he offered his wisdom, guidance and insight gained from a life committed to hard work, honesty and integrity.
His spirit of adventure, curiosity and fun drove him to prioritize activities with family and friends. These included; traveling the world, playing tennis, skiing, watching sports (Go Huskies!), and attending theater and local music events.
Roger is survived by his wife Marcia, daughters Katie Smith -Cashen (Chris), Elizabeth Smith (Bill), Sarah Smith-Blanchard (Rob) his eight grandchildren Lael, Connelly, AnneMae, Devon, Alea, Christopher John, Izzy and Elliot.
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Bruce Beyer Africa, M.D., Ph.D. on June 5, 2023. Bruce Beyer Africa, M.D., Ph.D. passed away on June 5, 2023, in Lafayette, California, at the age of 82.
Bruce was born in Warren, Pennsylvania to Wesley (Beyer) ’36 and Virginia (Ginny) Kane ’36 Africa on March 10, 1941. He was followed two years later by a brother, Thomas. Bruce graduated from Warren High School in 1959 and Allegheny College (B.S. Chemistry, cum laude) in 1963. He received a Ph.D. in Biochemistry from the University of California at Berkeley in 1968, held a postdoctoral research fellow position at Harvard Medical School from 1968-70, and received a M.D. from Duke University in 1973. Following his Residency in Psychiatry at Langley Porter Psychiatric Institute (UCSF), Bruce became a board-certified Psychiatrist in 1980.
Bruce remained in the Bay Area where he became a noted specialist in the biochemistry and pharmacological management of Schizophrenic Disorders and Psychosis. He divided his time between private practice and a position as Associate Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at the University of California, San Francisco, where he supervised residents, taught courses and wrote for academic journals. He also served as a member of the active medical staff and of the Medical Executive Board at Alta Bates-Herrick Hospitals in Berkeley.
Bruce lived in and around Berkeley for the last 50 years. He maintained a life-long interest in psychoactive ethnobotanical practices among indigenous groups and their potential for adaptation within Western psychopharmacology. Above all, he prized the vibrant culture of freedom of expression that catalyzed Berkeley in the Sixties and Seventies. He is survived by a daughter, her husband, two grandchildren, and many cousins, in-laws, and friends. He was predeceased over the last decade by his former spouse and their son, a second former spouse, and his brother.
Dr. Ross W. Buck on September 1, 2022. Dr. Ross W. Buck passed away peacefully in Windham Hospital on September 1, 2022. He was born on August 16, 1941 in Sewickley, PA to Ross and Ruth Buck. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Judith Buck Davis. He leaves his wife, Marianne of 58 years; children Ross William and his children Eleanor (Al) and William Christopher of Washington, DC; Maria Lenore of Brooklyn, NY; Nancy Jenney of White Plains, MD; and Theodore Reed and his children Maya Rose and Hannah Judith of Tolland, CT. He also leaves cousins, Lynda Thill of Gibsonia, PA and Marilyn McAllister of Coraopolis, PA, sister- and brother-in law, Nancy and Howard Pears of Meadville PA, in addition to many nieces and nephews. Ross also leaves many grieving colleagues and those he often referred to as his second family, former graduate students – too many to count from his 48 years of teaching at the University of Connecticut, Storrs. Although he was an amazing father to our four children, he always had room in his heart for more of his students whom he mentored.
Ross earned his PhD in Psychology from the University of Pittsburgh and his early career included work at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine followed by appointments to Carnegie Mellon University and the University of Connecticut, where he was a Professor of Communication and Psychology. He authored four books on Communication, Emotion, Motivation, and Nonverbal Communication and numerous chapters and professional journal articles. He served as Editor of the International Society of Research on Emotion Newsletter and belonged to many professional organizations.
Philip L. Keisel Sr. on October 27, 2023. Philip L Keisel, Sr of Rock Hill, South Carolina passed away on October 27,2023. Philip was born on August 1, 1941, in Meadville, PA, the son of Louis W and Garnet B Keisel.
Philip graduated in 1959 from Meadville High School where he maintained lifelong friendships. After high school, he attended Allegheny College for 2 years. In 1962, he became a Tool and Die Maker Apprentice with Talon Inc. Philip graduated in 1966 as a Tool and Die Journeyman, which was his lifelong calling. Philip worked at Talon for many years before moving to Indianapolis, Indiana where he continued his career at LCD Inc. In 1983 he moved to Rock Hill, SC where he worked with Duracell/Gillette until he retired as their Toolroom Supervisor / Engineer in 2000.
Throughout his life, Philip was very civic minded, with a servant heart. During the years of 1958 through 1977 in Meadville, PA, he was a fireman with West Mead #1 Volunteer Fire Department. He eventually became their Assistant Fire Chief. He later became the Fire Chief at East Mead Volunteer Fire Department. Philip was a member of St. Agatha Church in Meadville, PA, and St. Anne’s Catholic Church in Rock Hill, SC. He earned the distinction of being a 4th Degree Knight with the Knights of Columbus. Philip was a former Reserve Deputy of the York County Sheriff’s Department. He was also very active in his local community and called many neighbors his friends.
Philip is survived by his wife of 61 years, Bonnie Beige Keisel; three children, Beth A Storlie (Kevin), Philip L Keisel Jr (Vicki), and Jill K Perry; 5 grandchildren, 7 great grandchildren, and his brother Dan W Keisel.
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Dr. Robert “Bob” William Stinson on July 7, 2023. Robert “Bob” William Stinson, age 81, died peacefully at the East Lansing, Michigan, home of his daughter, Jennifer Stinson, on July 7, 2023. He was in hospice there, surrounded by family, friends, love, laughter, and music.
Robert was born in Elmhurst, Illinois, on September 12, 1941, to William and Marie McCoy Stinson. He grew up there and in Ridgewood, New Jersey, with brother Stephen “Steve” Stinson and sisters Sharon Stinson and Lorene “Lori” Stinson Stone. He also had a half-sister, Carol Stinson. He is survived by his wife of fifty-seven years Margaret “Peggy” (nee Frye) Stinson; by daughter Jennifer, son-in-law John Baesler, and granddaughter Charlotte; and by son Jonathan and daughter-in-law Samantha Stinson, and granddaughters Abigail, Amalia, and Ariana. He is also survived by siblings Steve and Lori and their children and grandchildren, as well as brother-in-law and sister-in-law Jerry and Mary Frye. He is remembered as a warm, wise, funny, and loving husband, father, brother, and uncle-and especially as a doting and delightful grandpa.
Robert graduated from Ridgewood High School in 1960 and from Allegheny College in Pennsylvania in 1964. He fell in love with the life of the mind in Manchester, England, where studied abroad from 1962 through 1963. He fell in love with his wife Peggy while earning his doctorate in American History at Indiana University, in Bloomington, Indiana. He fell in love with student activism, politics, social justice, and the “sixties” there, too. Robert and Peggy married at Edgewood United Church in East Lansing, Michigan, on June 11, 1966, and he completed his Ph.D. in 1971. Their daughter Jennifer was born in 1971, son Andrew (died in infancy) in 1976, and son Jonathan in 1978.
A dedicated teacher, Robert served as a professor in the History Department at Moravian College, in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, from 1970 through 2004. He specialized in the history of historical writing, Progressivism, urban history, journalism history, film history, and the Vietnam War. He mentored future social studies teachers in collaboration with the Education Department, and he helped to coordinate the National History Day competition. Robert was an enthusiastic supporter of Moravian College athletics; he could frequently be heard cheering for the football and softball teams, as well as for the men’s and women’s basketball teams. Following his retirement to Oberlin, Ohio, in 2004, he taught part-time at Baldwin Wallace University and Lorain County Community College.
Robert loved music deeply. He sang in choruses and at all-state concerts as a high school student, also acting in musical theater productions. He volunteered as a classical radio host for the Lehigh Valley’s WDIY public radio station in the 1990s and early 2000s. At Christmas, he sang with the Moravian College Choir in Vespers services. His singing in the choir at the Cathedral Church of the Nativity (Episcopal) in Bethlehem, as well as his travels to England and Ireland with that choir, brought him great joy. He composed songs for family, friends, and local choirs. The notes of Mahler, Mozart, Bach, Brahms, Beethoven, the Bee Gees, and many others accompanied his last days, as they had his whole life.
Robert was also a gifted and prolific writer. He kept a diary from 1954 through 2023, and he wrote memoirs, vignettes, and comics for his family and friends, who were all familiar with his work. His publications include Lincoln Steffens (an eponymously titled biography of the Muckraker journalist), The Faces of Clio (an historiographical anthology), and The Long Dying of Baby Andrew (a medical ethics memoir co-written with Peggy Stinson). He published editorials in the Morning Call and wrote the Ohio Newspaper Association award-winning column “A Second Look” for the Oberlin News-Tribune. Robert penned numerous short stories, including “Bringing Rasputin Home for Christmas,” which appeared in the anthology Crossing Class: The Invisible Wall. In his retirement, he published the novel Love and Death on Public Radio, a musically inspired murder mystery.
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Katherine “Kaye” Wynn Simonton Schlueter on June 20, 2023. Katherine “Kaye” Simonton Schlueter battled through her 2016 stage 4 breast cancer and lymphoma diagnoses.
However, in March 2023 an aggressive single-cell carcinoma, ureteral cancer, turned up uninvited. After unsuccessfully attempting to convince this unwanted guest to leave, Kaye made peace with her and entered Hospice treatment on June 9. She passed away courageously at home on June 20, 2023 at the age of 79 near her loving husband Rich Schlueter.
Kaye was raised in Erie, PA under significant financial hardship. She experienced homelessness at one stage. Her father was institutionalized for the last nineteen years of his life and through much of her upbringing. He passed away when she was in her mid-20s.
She got by with help from a protective mother and extended family, connectivity with her local church, the generosity of neighbors and her belief in an inclusive and powerful spirituality.
She also used her circ*mstances to fuel her independence out of a will to survive and thrive.
She walked several miles to her waitressing job in high school. She finished near the top of her high school class and worked forty hours a week as part of her work-study scholarship to Allegheny College. There she was president of her sorority, homecoming queen and met her first husband Steve Simonton ’64.
Two of her three goals growing up were to be a mother and a teacher. She achieved both by the age of twenty-three when she welcomed daughter Shelley to the world. Her first teaching gig was for grades 4-8 at the Little Laramie Valley View’s 2-room school-house in the Snowy Range of Wyoming. Son Mike would follow five years later.
Music was the thread that weaved through Kaye’s life. It was her rock from her first church solo at the age of three, to her solo at the new federal Senate building in Washington, D.C. as a sophom*ore in high school, to directing a Bob Hope USO event at Clark Air Force base in the Philippines in her early 20s where she and Shelley were stationed with Steve.
When things were hard Kaye retreated to music as a therapeutic refuge. When things were coming together, she would similarly seek to grow through music – singing, piano, harp, percussion triangles, mandolin and others.
After her divorce, Kaye reinvented herself in her 40s.
She received her masters in special education at the age of 50 from the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs. Her compassionate heart was drawn toward students with more severe and complex needs. She listened to and advocated for them and at the same time she gained insights into, reflected upon and learned to retrospectively empathize with her father’s condition as part of her own journey.
Among a variety of teaching roles, Kaye worked at the Griffith Residential Treatment Center, the Children’s Ark Residential Treatment Center and the School for the Deaf and Blind. She also taught a severe needs autistic program in Colorado Springs District 11. Her career ultimately reached its pinnacle when she served as the Director of Disability Services at the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs.
Her third goal growing up was to feel unconditionally loved and safe. Achieving this goal was worth the wait. In her 50s she met and married the man of her dreams, Rich Schlueter.
While teaching was a goal, her true gift was as a voracious life-long learner. Her loving marriage provided the foundation for her to comfortably pursue her interests which included reading, physical health, nutrition, volunteering, nature, traveling and hunting for fashion bargains.
She didn’t play any sports growing up. She took tennis lessons in her 20s. She then learned racquetball. In the decades that followed, Kaye won hundreds of local and statewide medals and trophies in both sports in Wyoming, Montana, Colorado and Utah.
She competed in singles and mixed doubles tennis in the Senior Olympic Games, finishing in the top 10 nationally three times in women’s singles for her age bracket. Two of those times she was fighting cancer. She was competitive and gracious. Win or lose she always found something to laugh about, especially when on the court with her partner Rich.
Kaye had a zest for life. Her ideal day involved sleeping in; playing mixed doubles with Rich; grabbing brunch/coffee; an early afternoon work-out class at the “Y”; reading and listening to instrumental music; marveling at the spiritual visits from humming birds, monarch butterflies and deer outside her home; happy houring on the deck with Rich and joining him for a concert at the Tri-Lakes Center for the Arts near their home in Monument, CO.
Kaye’s light will keep shining as her defining qualities of caring, optimism, perseverance, hard work and gratitude leave a lasting legacy on family and friends who were open to her teachings.
Kaye was preceded in death by her daughter Shelley Simonton and parents Julia and James Wynn.
She is survived by her beloved husband Rich Schlueter; son Mike Simonton (Natania) and grandsons Jack and Max; step-daughters Deb Bush (Jerry) and Dana Slimko (Mark), grandchildren Zach, Kylie, Nicole, Emily, and Christopher; her sister Barbara Geiser, niece Lynn Soots and nephews Richard and Mark Geiser.
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William “Bill” K. Gilbert, M.D., on July 27, 2023. William (Bill) K Gilbert MD, of Eliot, Maine, passed away peacefully on July 27, 2023, surrounded by his loving family in his home of forty seven years.
Born on March 31, 1944 to Karl Clinton Gilbert and Virginia Elizabeth (nee Cutshall) Gilbert, Bill was raised on a farm in Guys Mills, Pennsylvania with his four brothers. He is predeceased by his parents and brothers Larry ’64 and Bob ’70. He is survived by his wife of fifty two years, Wendy Lee Gilbert (nee Fuss), four children, Allison Gilbert of Eliot, Justin and his wife Angie Gilbert (Bryan) of Eliot, Adam and his wife Amy Gilbert (Kuchinski) of Apex, NC, Jacob Gilbert of Eliot, and ten grandchildren Kaylee, Ozzie, Ella, Leona, Noah, Harper, Lyla, Lucas, Rose, and Hallie.
A graduate of Randolph-East Mead High School, Bill attended Allegheny College in Meadville, PA and went on to complete Medical School at the University of Pennsylvania. After residency at Methodist Hospital in Indianapolis, he then served in the USAF as a physician at Wright-Patterson AFB in Dayton, OH. After moving to Eliot in 1975 with his wife and young family, he co-founded Kittery Family Practice, the first family practice in the area. He remained at KFP for the next 37 years, reassuringly caring for many residents of the southern Maine region with his calm demeanor. His early career brought many home visits, as well as free well-child checks in Eliot for many years. Later in life he volunteered his services as a physician on mission trips to Guatemala.
He ardently pursued his many passions and interests without bound. His homestead was an immense source of pleasure and satisfaction to him. He often walked visitors through his array of gardens, projects and plans-in-the-making. He was tirelessly tackling home renovations, transforming the landscape, gardening, crafting wine, boiling maple syrup, churning out fresh pressed cider, raising livestock, poultry and peaco*cks, beekeeping, and even had a brief stint as the owner of a very stubborn pony.
He loved sports; his years were full of coaching his own children’s team and umpiring, playing mens’ basketball, served as MSAD 35 sideline physician and spectator that spanned four decades. He was a proud and devoted fan of his grandkids musical activities and sporting events.
A devoted member of the Eliot United Methodist Church (newly renamed Living Water UMC) he served as lay leader, on the board of trustees, in the voice and bell choirs, and made several service trips abroad. One of his prominent accomplishments close to his heart was the creation of the community garden that flourishes on the premises of UMC in Eliot.
Another aspect of his giving back to the community was his years-long service on the MSAD 35 School Board. He was proud to have been a part of the planning and building of the current Marshwood High School.
And yet, above all, Bill was a devoted husband, father and grandfather, a source of great strength and wisdom to his family; he was their cornerstone and will be missed beyond measure.
Norman “Don” Gordon on May 23, 2023. Norman “Don” Gordon, of Springfield, MA, passed away peacefully on May 23, 2023, surrounded by his loving family, after a brief battle with cancer. Don was born in Rochester, NY, to the late Irwin & Marjorie Gordon.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 59 years, Penny Gordon (Brown), and his children, Sherri Tower (Bobby), Michelle Gordon Cirino & Robert Gordon (Erica). He leaves behind 8 grandchildren, Bryan Gordon (Kristina Kraft); Nicole Cirino (Joe Clover); Sarah Tower, Madeline Cirino, Sam, Bailey & Ben Gordon & Jessica Gordon.
He is also survived by his sister Gail Price; brother-in-law, Alan Brown (Phyllis); sister-in-law, Marilyn Brown; niece Dawn Price; nephew Don Price (Lisa), and their families; niece, Meredith Zimmer & family members Jodi Roberts & Carlos Cirino. He was pre-deceased by his in-laws, James & Helen Brown, and brother-in-law, Gordon Price.
Don grew up in the heart of KodaVista. He attended Greece Olympia High School, where he ran track & played other sports. He worked at Kodak as a young man. He graduated with a Bachelor’s degree from Allegheny College. He retired from Aetna/Travelers Insurance, Hartford, CT. He was a member of The Meadows Masonic Lodge in East Longmeadow.
He was most proud of his family, his Scottish heritage. He loved the Red Sox, music & golfing. He was a wonderful storyteller and the best sense of humor. Special thanks to Sister Caritas Cancer Center & Beacon Hospice for their compassionate care.
Ann Mary Ruhling on August 1, 2023. Ann Mary Ruhling, 90, of Titusville passed away at her residence. Ann was born on December 25, 1932, in Erie to the late Arthur and Marguerite (Batchelor) Ruhling. She was a graduate of Erie public school, Edinboro University and Allegheny College. Ann had a master’s degree in teaching and taught in the Titusville Area School District for 30 years. She attended St. Titus Church. Ann was a talented gardener who enjoyed reading classical literature and listening to classical music. During her summers she would tutor children and supported organizations for children across the globe. She is survived by several nieces and nephews and preceded in death by 4 brothers and 2 sisters, one who died in infancy.
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Ronald J. D’Arcy-Clarke on June 21, 2023. Ronald J. D’Arcy-Clarke was born in Teaneck, New Jersey to John P. D’Arcy-Clarke and Elizabeth D’Arcy-Clarke (Verlini), both deceased. Dear brother of Lynn Stewart and uncle of Christine Stewart and Donna Stewart. Beloved partner of Marilynne Zigman. Dear uncle, cousin and friend to many, both lifelong and recent. Ron was a complex man and deep thinker, well-spoken, well written and well read. Yet he was analytical and (usually) logical. He had a quick wit and a mind as sharp as his sense of humor. He was a wordsmith, a punster, a puzzler of all types, a writer, and computer geek. Ron was a jack of all trades and master of most. He enjoyed art and reading, music and movies. He was a consummate researcher. Ron was the “go to guy” for help for most everything from solving tech problems to buying a car to putting together Ikea furniture. His tool box was among his most prized possessions. Those who knew him soon realized that he did not suffer fools gladly nor silently. He could have chosen a career in any field. He would have achieved great success in any of the sciences, the arts, technology, or industrial trades. But in his soul, he was a teacher. Teaching was his vocation and lifelong learning was his avocation. Ron loved teaching children, especially those in the middle grades. He was challenged by teaching youth who were gifted with a high level of intelligence. He taught thousands of children during his 50 years in education, the great majority of them in the east side neighborhoods of the Cleveland Municipal School District. He taught many years in the district’s Major Work program, later termed Gifted and Talented programming. Ron taught at various schools including Gracemount, Fullerton and for many years at Whitney M. Young School for the Gifted and Talented. Concurrently and after his retirement he enjoyed teaching mathematics to boys in the REACH program, a program for academically talented African-American middle school young men located at University School. Ron had the same goals throughout his entire career. He wanted to teach his students critical thinking skills and he did it through hands-on experiential learning. Ron taught children how to think, not what to think. He delighted in demonstrating to them how to solve problems and apply reasoning. He taught them how to use those thought processes in everything they did, not only in the classroom but throughout their lives. For a teacher, there is no joy so great as seeing one’s students succeed. Ron had a lot to smile about. Ron left this life unexpectedly. Leave it to the science guy to depart this world on the evening of the summer solstice. As C.S. Lewis wrote: “There are far far better things ahead than we leave behind”.
Dr. Sherrill Anne Foradora Kuckuck on June 24, 2023. Sherrill Anne Kuckuck of Indiana passed away on Saturday, June 24 after an eight-year battle with Alzheimer’s Disease. She was born on December 17, 1945 in Corry, PA and was the daughter of Louis and Ada (Wissinger) Foradora. She was a graduate of Union City, PA High School. Sherrill received a bachelor’s degree in communications from Allegheny College, a master’s degree in counseling and a Doctor of Education Degree from the University of Pittsburgh. Sherry worked as Assistant Dean of Women at Slippery Rock College for two years. In 1971 she married Edward D. “Ted” Kuckuck and began work as Assistant Dean of Women at Indiana University of Pennsylvania. During a 33-year career at IUP she served many roles. She served as Director of Student Development Programs and Director of Orientation. She initiated several innovative and well-received programs while at IUP including the highly successful Six-O’Clock Series. For a number of years, she also served as the liaison with the various ministers who served the IUP student population. In the latter part of her career she also taught Career Exploration Courses. She retired as a faculty member in 2004 and was named professor emeritus shortly thereafter. Although she had a very successful and rewarding academic career, her greatest love was her family. She was a dedicated and enthusiastic wife and mother, always making family time her top priority. Even while managing a full-time job and earning a doctorate, she never missed any school events, sports or any other activities that involved her children. In addition to her husband, she is survived by her three children: Allison Noel Slezak (Chris) of Meridian, ID; Edward Alan Kuckuck (Amber) of Louisville, KY, and Gregory Stuart Kuckuck (Tabby) of Westerville, OH. She is also survived by six grandchildren, Carl, Abby and Victor Slezak and Connor, Eliza and Zander Kuckuck. A brother, Stuart Foradora of Wattsburg, PA also survives her. A woman of great enthusiasm and love of life, Sherry was involved with many activities and community service organizations. She was a Cub Scout Den Mother, served on the Indiana Free Library board, was a board member and president of the Red Line Hockey Boosters Club, a board member of the Friends of the Parks and was a Penn State Master Gardener. Other favorite activities included dog walking, dancing, travel and Sunday breakfasts at Valley Dairy. The family wishes to extend heartfelt thanks to Drs. Mike Dinger and Indiana Judy as well as the entire staff at Latrobe Area Hospital for their care and compassion. A special thanks also is extended to Sherry’s two caregivers: Selah McCracken and Linda Foust. Their care and companionship did much to brighten her final months.
Michael Paul Varble on August 14, 2023. Michael Paul Varble was born July 14, 1942 and left us at age 81 on August 14, 2023. He was known by all as a kind and gentle soul, a steadfast, warm, loyal, and caring person, a true mensch. He will be forever missed by his wife Bobbie (née Roberta Freeman ’68) his two sons Ben (Michelle) of Elmhurst, IL, and Jon of Solon, OH his grandchildren Kyla, Camryn, Audriana, and Paxton, and his sister Mary Wahlmark (Curt) of Rockford, IL.
Mike grew up in East Cleveland, OH, where his father (Roscoe) was a Presbyterian minister, and his mother (Carolyn) was a teacher, and he graduated from Shaw High School in 1960. He enrolled at Allegheny College in Meadville, PA, to participate in its renowned vocal music program, but unsure of his vocational goals, he left school, joined the Teamsters, and drove a Pepsi delivery truck. He returned to Allegheny in 1964 (the year Bobbie started) to become a Social Studies educator. By this time, Mike knew his heart well— he knew he couldn’t fight in the Vietnam War, he knew he wanted to work with children, and he knew he wanted to spend his life with Bobbie. They were married in 1968, thirteen days after her graduation, and marked their 55th anniversary this year.
As quiet and unassuming as Mike presented himself, he was a progressive rebel in many ways. He chose to marry outside his original faith, and, as was thought necessary in those days, became a Jew by choice before his marriage to Bobbie. Their wedding ceremony was co-officiated by a rabbi and Mike’s liberal father, so unusual for its time that it was the subject of newspaper articles. And while others in the late sixties and seventies were being pushed into business careers with monetary rewards, Mike took his Master’s Degree in Education and Counseling, and until retirement, worked at Westlake’s Lee Burneson Middle School as a teacher, Association President, counselor, and assistant principal. He finished his career there in a position created just for him, Dean of Students. Along the way, he was awarded a one-year sabbatical to help develop the PACE Association, a community-based education support group. Also, in 1984, Mike was honored by the State of Ohio with a district Teacher of the Year award, another proud professional accomplishment. After his retirement from Westlake, he counseled at Trinity High School and Hillside Middle School in Parma. He loved counseling, he loved kids, and he believed in public education.
Among his other loves was Mike’s passion for singing. He studied under Morten Luvaas while in college, and over the following years sang in a number of choral groups, including the West Shore Chorale, the Cleveland Choral Union, the Chagrin Valley Choral Union, the Choral Arts Society, the Western Reserve Chorale, the Cleveland Orchestra Summer Chorus, and Good Company. When his advancing cognitive impairment made it impossible to read or learn new music, he was welcomed into the Solon Act II Singers where he made up his own harmonies.
Always driven by his considerate and helpful nature, Mike took on the role of primary parent when Bobbie opened her own business, and gave her thousands of hours of technical and emotional support in her duties as an officer of the local Jewish Secular Community and the national and international organizations with which it affiliated. He stayed home with the kids as she traveled all over the world for meetings, he helped take care of her sick and failing relatives, willingly made any sacrifices necessary to be of service, and never complained.
A devoted father, Mike personally embraced his children’s hobbies and athletic pursuits. When they took up baseball, Mike successfully coached their little league teams. He learned how to ski and even sponsored Lee Burneson’s ski club so that he could take his family on multiple ski trips to Pennsylvania and New York. Along with Bobbie, Mike was a great provider affording his children the education and experiences, such as memorable family vacations and international travel opportunities, that they have grown to appreciate from a loving father.
After retiring at 65, Mike was finally free to do as he had always wished. He and Bobbie traveled extensively throughout the U.S. as well as internationally, including Europe, South America, Australia and New Zealand, the Far East, and Israel. Mike also exercised his prodigious intelligence studying and playing bridge, for which he had demonstrated genuine skills (undoubtedly acquired during many hours spent at the Allegheny College Student Union instead of attending classes), so some of their trips were to tournaments where they almost achieved Life Master status before his condition made continuing unfeasible.
Mike had a delightful sense of whimsy, and much enjoyed wordplay. He punned incessantly, deliberately looked for ways to use the word “peradventure” instead of perhaps, referred to dinner meat as “roast beast,” and expressed his disapproval of something by invoking the term “marginal.” He was witty, but never acerbic, insulting, or judgmental. Everyone who ever met him sensed the goodness in his heart, and he will be missed.
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John Curtis Artz on November 22, 2023. John Curtis Artz, 77, passed away on November 22, 2023. He was born on March 4, 1946, in Columbus, Ohio.
John attended Kent School, Allegheny College, and the University of South Carolina School of Law.
He worked for Eckert Seamans Cherin & Mellott, Polito & Smock, and Ogletree Deakins.
John served in the Air Force.
He was loved and cherished by many people including : his parents, Curtis Price Artz and Kathryn Lucille Risley Artz; his wife Nancy (Jones) ’69; his children, Jay (Laura) of North Andover, MA, Andy (Lan To) of New York City and Casey Schneider of O’Hara Township; and his sisters, Susan Okun of Benicia, CA and Joann Artz of Evansville, IN. He was also cherished by many brothers and sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews.
Nancy Kay Nicholson Grabiak on July 27, 2023. Nancy Kay Grabiak, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on July 27, 2023, at the age of 76 in Louisville, KY. She was born on August 22,1946, in the District of Columbia. Nancy was known for her kind and supportive nature, intuitive guidance, and unwavering encouragement. She had a bright and artistic spirit, finding solace in nature and books. Nancy was a friend to all who knew her, always putting others before herself and helping them find their own solutions.
Nancy had a rich and adventurous upbringing, traveling from coast to coast, from California to New York. Beaufort, SC, where she attended Beaufort High School, held a special place in her heart. Throughout her life, Nancy maintained strong family ties, with many extended family members residing in Pittsburgh, PA.
After high school, Nancy’s life led her to Haddonfield, NJ, where she met Charles L. Grabiak. They married and had three children. In the early 1990’s, Nancy moved to Louisville, KY, with her three children, to be closer to her mother and brother. She cherished being around family, especially her grandchildren, and spent her last days in the comfort of her own home, lovingly cared for by her two daughters.
Nancy is survived by her children: Mark A. Grabiak of Little Rock, AR, Jennifer L. Coombs (Jeff) and Lisa M. Snyder (Bryan) of Louisville, KY. She is also survived by her siblings: Thomas J. Nicholson (Sheila) of Louisville, KY, and Richard L. Nicholson of Paso Robles, CA. Nancy was a proud grandmother to Lexi M. Coombs, Logan G. Snyder, Van M. Snyder, Lleyton M. Coombs, Blake A. Snyder, and Brooke M. Coombs. She was preceded in death by her mother, Patricia M. Nicholson, father, Earl M. Nicholson (US Navy, Ret.), and brother, Robert M. Nicholson.
Nancy’s educational journey included attending Beaufort High School in SC and Allegheny College in PA. Professionally, she devoted her time to being a loving mother and also worked as an accountant and bookkeeper.
She lived a life guided by her beliefs and was an inspiration to those around her.
In her leisure time, Nancy enjoyed reading, traveling, painting, cooking, and indulging in music. She also loved challenging herself with Sudoku puzzles and watching game shows like Jeopardy and Wheel of Fortune.
James Peter Green on June 14, 2023. James Peter Green, age 77, of Marco Island, Florida passed away on Wednesday, June 14, 2023.
Dr. Karen Ruth Lichtenstein on May 9, 2023. Lichtenstein, Karen Ruth, 76, Olympia, died Tuesday, May 9, 2023, at home.
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Cathy Jean Artis, M.D., on November 7, 2023. Cathy Jean Artis, 75, passed away on Tuesday, November 7, 2023.
Cathy attended Allegheny College and Woman’s Medical College of Pennsylvania.
Dr. Richard J. “Rick” Stadtmiller on July 24, 2023. Dr. Richard J. “Rick” Stadtmiller, 76, of Morgantown, WV and formerly of Curwensville passed away July 24, 2023 at his residence.
Born February 17, 1947 he was the son of William and Jane (McNaul) Stadtmiller.
He was 1965 graduate of Curwensville Area High School where he was Valedictorian and graduated with High Honors. He received many honors while in high school John Philip Sousa award for trumpet abilities, National Merritt Scholarship finalist, and P.G. Robison Memorial Essay Winner.
He graduated with Honors from Allegheny College in Meadville, PA. He then received his doctorate degree from Harvard Medical School in family medicine and surgery. He furthered his medical education at Dartmouth College. He practiced medicine in Johnstown, Philadelphia, Monroeville, and West Virginia. He also specialized in supervising clinics in W.V in drug and alcohol abuse. He was a former mentor in Big Brothers and Big Sisters Program, and was a member of American Medical Association.
He is survived by his sister Rebecca Anderson, sister-in-law Lois Stadtmiller both of Curwensville. Also surviving are nephews Erik Anderson (Becky) of Pittsburgh, Jonathan Anderson (Katie) Angola, NY, Nieces Michelle (Allen) Nutt, Westminster, MD and Sharon (Jason) Vogel Altoona, PA. His beloved cat Diego, and all of his McNaul Cousins who were apart of their close knit family.
He was preceded in death by his parents, and his brother William Stadtmiller.
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Frederic George Antoun Jr. on June 30, 2023. Frederic George Antoun Jr, 75, of Chambersburg passed away June 30, 2023. He was born in Meadville, PA on May 7, 1948 to the late Frederic G. Antoun Sr. ’49, and Annette Adelman Antoun ’50.
Fred graduated from Bishop McDevitt High School in Harrisburg in 1966. He attended Allegheny College in Meadville, PA where he met many lifelong friends (and lived with many of them at the house known as “The Zoo”). He earned his law degree and formed many great friendships at Ohio Northern University School of Law, where he graduated in 1975.
Fred married the love of his life DeEtta Riordan Antoun on April 19, 1969, and they had two children, Vanessa and Freddy.
A prominent attorney and advocate for many years, Fred was respected and beloved in the community he served. He was also loved by his children’s friends who spent much time at the Antoun house, as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins and other family and friends.
Fred enjoyed bird watching, building computers and researching new technology, hiking, traveling the world, and following the Philadelphia sports teams.
He will be remembered for his sense of humor, his kind and caring nature, and through the many stories he shared with friends and family.
Fred was father to Vanessa Antoun and Frederic Antoun III (Jamie); grandfather to Emily Antoun; and stepfather to Avery, Hugh and Haley Wissinger, the children of his beloved companion Meg Wissinger. He is also survived by his siblings Gregory Antoun ’73 (Christie), Laureace McCarthy (Ed), Scott Antoun (Carole), Jonathan Antoun ’90 (MaryLeigh), and Lisa Mulholland.
He was preceded in death by his wife, DeEtta Antoun; his parents; and his brothers, Lawrence Antoun and Mark Antoun.
Robert Bruce Washburn on June 29, 2023. Robert Bruce Washburn, 80, of Meadville, PA passed away on June 29, 2023. He was born on September 13, 1942.
He is survived by three children, Shawn Washburn, Sharla Buzzard and Fran Gordon and 6 grandchildren.
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James Auld Anderson Jr. on July 8, 2023. James Auld Anderson, Jr., age 74 of Lewes, DE passed away on Saturday, July 8, 2023. He was born on February 7, 1949, in Buffalo, NY, son of the late James A. Sr. and Lois (Bixby) Anderson. Mr. Anderson grew up in Kenmore, NY and was a former longtime resident of Takoma Park, MD, and Walterboro, SC. He was currently residing in Angola by the Bay, Lewes, DE and Amherst, Nova Scotia. Mr. Anderson graduated from Kenmore West Senior High School in NY. He continued his education at Rutgers University in NJ, obtaining his BA in 1976 and ultimately his master’s degree in 1982 from the University of South Carolina. Mr. Anderson enjoyed a lifelong career in education, working for several schools throughout his career and holding multiple positions in SC and MD, including teacher, coach, and principal. After moving to Maryland, he resumed his career in Prince George’s County Public Schools, working as a teacher and coach at Crossland High School, Tall Oaks, and Bladensburg High School. After retiring from teaching, and until his death, Mr. Anderson worked as CFO for the Law Office of Adele L. Abrams PC in Beltsville, MD. Mr. Anderson loved boating, golf, traveling, reading history, rooting for the Nationals and attending musical concerts. He was a Friend of Bill W. for nearly 30 years. Mr. Anderson brought history to life for his students and his passion for educating future generations never waned. He truly enjoyed time spent with his friends and family, and his presence will be deeply missed. Mr. Anderson is survived by his wife, Adele L. Abrams; his children: Jeffrey M. Anderson, Elspeth Anderson Dyal, and Meagan Anderson Marvin, and his six grandchildren, all of SC; his sister, Holly A. Conners; his niece, Sharon Conners; his nephew, Patrick Conners; and his two beloved dogs, Pinkie, and Kingston (Little Bits).
Jacquard Welsh Guenon on July 20, 2023. Jacquard Welsh Guenon, born on Jan. 19, 1949, in Waynesboro, Penn., peacefully passed away in his sleep surrounded by family and friends on July 20, 2023, in Paso Robles, Calif. He was the beloved son of William Sr. and Dorothy Guenon, who predeceased him. He was raised in Greencastle, Penn. and graduated from Mercersburg Academy in 1966.
Jacquard is survived by his loving daughters, Eleanore and Grace Guenon. Additionally, he leaves behind his niece, Lisa Saindon, and nephew, William Guenon.
Educated at Allegheny College, Jacquard earned a degree in Mathematics. He further pursued his passion for technology at Michigan State University, where he obtained a Master of Science in Computer Science. Throughout his career, Jacquard held various positions in computer technology departments for different companies. Notably, he found great fulfillment during his tenure as Director/CEO for the Computer Center at the University of Maryland Shock Trauma Center and later as Chief Technology Officer and Vice President at Wired.
Outside of work, Jacquard found joy in the simple pleasures of life and finding humor in the little things to bring laughter to his friends and family. He was an avid reader, constantly expanding his knowledge and exploring new ideas, and loved challenging himself with the Sunday NYTimes crossword. Jacquard had a soft spot for the family dogs, whom he spoiled with bacon and treats, even if he protested each new dog that joined the family.
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James Daniel Murphy on June 26, 2023. James Daniel Murphy, 72, of Westmont, Illinois passed away on June 26, 2023. Beloved husband of Bernadette (nee Szczech), he is also survived by two sisters and a brother: Patricia Murphy (Blair Reese), Florence (Flossie) L’Estrange (John) and Jamison (Maryeileen). Born July 2, 1950 in Clearfield, Pennsylvania to the late Dr. James H. and Helen Murphy, Jim attended Allegheny College where he earned a B.A. in Speech and Dramatic Art, and then moved to Chicago where he performed in numerous theaters, commercials and industrial productions. Known to many as “Murph,” Jim will be fondly remembered by those who worked with him for his comedic talent, good humor and loyal friendship.
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The Rev. Dr. Carol J. Jablonski on June 19, 2023. The Rev. Dr. Carol J. Jablonski passed away on June 19, 2023, at an Asheville, NC hospice after a brief illness. Her intelligence, insight, wit, grace, and compassion were known to many, both within the Communication discipline and outside it. Her life as a teacher, scholar, and Episcopal priest was rich and multifaceted.
Born in Milwaukee, WI, on July 12, 1951, Carol earned her BA in English from Allegheny College (1973), her MA in Communication from Purdue University (1975), and her PhD in Communication, also from Purdue (1979). Carol served on the faculties of the University of Virginia (1978-1981), Indiana University (1981-1986), and the University of South Florida (1986-2005), with two semesters at Wake Forest University as a Visiting Associate Professor (1990-1991).
Carol taught a range of undergraduate and graduate courses, including Rhetorical Theory and Criticism, Rhetoric and Social Change, and the Rhetoric of the Sixties. Her publications focused on leadership in times of social and institutional tumult, including three articles in The Quarterly Journal of Speech. She received grants from USF and the University of Notre Dame for her work on Dorothy Day, the twentieth century radical whose advocacy for peace prompted her incarceration on numerous occasions, and whose actions on behalf of the poor made her a saint to many.
Carol actively engaged in university service and leadership, particularly in program development and curricular reform during her years in the professorate. Having been elected to Phi Beta Kappa as an undergraduate, it was a privilege for her to have been part of a decades-long effort on the part of many faculty and administrators to improve the undergraduate curriculum at USF and (eventually) secure a chapter of Phi Beta Kappa for the university.
While at USF, Carol married her best friend and the love of her life, John Tyler Jones, in 1987. Together they explored many state and national parks, as well as the joys of making a home in the various places they lived. A technical writer and IT manager, Ty was later ordained as a vocational deacon in the Episcopal Church.
In a move that stunned many, given her professorial success, Carol’s profound faith led her to leave the Academy to answer a call to ordained ministry in the Episcopal Church. She received her MDiv Cum Laude from Virginia Theological Seminary (Harris Prize, 2006). As part of her preparation for ministry, she served as a chaplain intern at Duke Medical Center. Carol was ordained to the diaconate in June 2006 and was ordained to the priesthood by The Rt. Rev. Michael Curry in February 2007. During these years Carol continued to teach Communication classes at George Washington University and at North Carolina State University. Carol served in multiple priestly roles at St. Stephen’s in Durham, NC; as Rector at St. Andrew’s, in College Park, MD; as Interim Priest-in-Charge at St. George’s in Asheville, NC, and as Interim Rector at St. James, in Hendersonville, NC. She also served as a supply priest at six other congregations in this area. Her last celebrations of the Holy Eucharist occurred on Easter Sunday of this year.
Carol became a quilter in her later years, embracing a hobby which brought her much joy. She also enjoyed hiking, knitting, cooking, icon writing, and reading widely, leaving the gardening and the cleaning to her husband, Ty, who survives her.
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Michael H. Longo on October 5, 2023. Michael H. Longo, 70, of Toronto, OH, passed away Friday, Oct. 5, 2023, in the Trinity Medical Center West in Steubenville, OH.
Mike was born Aug. 29, 1953, in Steubenville, son of the late Hugh and Julieann (Bright) Longo.
Mike was retired from the First Energy W.H. Sammis Plant, in Stratton, OH, having worked in the Electrical Shop.
He was a 1972 graduate of Steubenville Catholic Central High School and attended Allegheny College in Meadville, PA. Mike loved playing his guitar. He was an avid Pittsburgh Steeler fan and loved his nieces and nephews.
Surviving is his wife, Nancy E. (West) Longo, whom he married Sept. 23, 1985; two brothers, David (Anne) Longo of Milan, OH, James (Debbie) Longo of Cranberry, PA; several nieces and nephews and his loving extended family.
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Mary Martha Truschel on August 27, 2023. Mary Martha Truschel went to her heavenly home on Sunday, August 27, 2023, after a brief illness. Born on January 17, 1956 to the late Eugene John “Jack” Truschel and Mary Margaret O’Connell “Micky” Truschel, she was a graduate of Allegheny College and the Dickinson School of Law. She had a distinguished 33 year career as a lawyer for the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, counseling and representing all aspects of the department from mining and mine safety to emergency response to safe drinking water. A skilled litigator, she argued and won 5 cases before the Pennsylvania Supreme Court, resulting in landmark decisions preserving our environment. She was honored with the Pennsylvania Bar Association (PBA) Environmental and Energy Law Section Lifetime Achievement Award in 2021.
A devoted member of the Church of the Ascension, she served in multiple leadership roles including vestry, stewardship, chancellor, and serving on diocesan committees. Most recently she was part of the children’s ministry prayer team, a demonstration of her love for young people and their families.
She was an avid reader and loved politics, travel and adventure, and hosting numerous family getaways. She was a beloved daughter, niece, sister, and most especially aunt and great-aunt to her 10 nieces and nephews and 3 grandnieces and nephew, to whom she was known as Aunt Money, spoiling them accordingly. Nothing was more important to her than her faith and her family, and she never missed an opportunity to organize a get-together to watch a Steelers game or celebrate any other excuse for a party. She was enthusiastically looking forward to the start of football season at the time of her death.
She is survived by her aunt, Patricia Truschel of Pittsburgh, her uncle and aunt John and Judy O’Connell of Greensburg, brother John Truschel and wife Laurie of Chapel Hill, NC, brother Tim and wife Natalie Hauser of Miami Beach, sister Ann Truschel and Jim Evans of Pittsburgh, sister Peggy Peeler and brother-in-law Tom of Selinsgrove, PA, sister-in-law Maria Boos of Montclair New Jersey, nieces and nephews Andrew (Larissa), Jenny (Mike), Amy, David, James, Matt, Jack (Jess), Chuck, Mike, and Lucy, great nieces Noelle and Cora and great nephew Jack, as well as numerous loving cousins and friends. All of us understood what it felt like to be in the circle of her love.
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David P. Zielinski on November 17, 2023. David P. Zielinski, 67, of McCandless Township, went to be with the Lord Friday afternoon, Nov. 17, 2023. “Dave” was born May 9, 1956, in Pittsburgh, to the late Mr. Edward Zielinski and the late Mrs. Mildred Zielinski. He is survived by his wife of 34 years, Sandrea (Mulneix) Zielinski, and his stepson, Jayson Stein (fiancee Holly). Also surviving are two brothers, Raymond (Ann) Zielinski, of Colorado Springs, Colo., and James (Mary) Zielinski, of DeLand, Fla.; a niece, Linnea (fiance Cody); and three nephews, Paul, Mark and Carl (Victoria). Dave will not only be missed by his immediate family, but also by the many relatives from the Mulneix family, many coworkers, neighbors and many friends. David was at Allegheny college for two years and went on to graduate from the University of Pittsburgh with a bachelor’s degree in chemistry. He worked for PPG Industries in his early career, moved to Michigan for a position with Dupont, and then retired after more than 25 years at Covestro. Dave attended services at Christ Church of Grove Farm, where he and Sandy were involved in many activities over the years. Since he retired, the couple had been enjoying travels to different destinations. He was an avid golfer in the summer and an avid bowler in the winter. Dave could do almost any home repair from electrical to plumbing to drywall. He was always puttering in his work shop, which is what he was doing at the end of his life.
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Dr. Samuel Adam Abrash on February 15, 2023. ABRASH, Dr. Samuel Adam, of Richmond, died on February 15, 2023, surrounded by his family. Sam was born on December 1, 1957, in Brookline, Mass. to Ross and Rachel Eliezer Abrash. He is survived by his wife, Katherine Whitney; daughter, Elizabeth Abrash; son, Ross Abrash; sister, Deborah Abbenante (Phil); and brother, Dan Abrash (Lennie). Sam graduated from the University of Chicago and earned his Ph.D. in Chemistry at UC Berkeley. For more than 30 years, Sam was passionate about teaching and mentoring his students at the University of Richmond. Nothing made him happier than seeing them succeed. He was known for his long list of eye-rolling Dad jokes and word plays. Sam lived surrounded by books, movies and music. He began playing the acoustic guitar later in life, and brought joy to many by playing folk songs at assisted living facilities around town. He loved his years of coaching Little League Baseball and teaching Contra dance workshops and treasured the friendships he made through them.
Julia Lee Eberhart on June 10, 2023. Julia Lee Eberhart, 65, a longtime resident of Chelmsford, MA, passed away peacefully on Saturday, June 10, 2023 at her home surrounded by her loving family.
Julia was born in Pittsburgh, PA on November 9, 1957, and was the daughter of Lois (Schove) Eberhart and the late Paul Eberhart. She was raised in Westfield, New Jersey with her parents and two sisters. Julia graduated from Westfield High School in 1975 and attended Allegheny College in Allegheny, PA where she graduated Magna Cum Laude with a degree in Economics in 1979. After college, Julia headed north to Boston, MA where she obtained her MBA from Boston University. She then was blessed with an illustrious and decorated career as a Strategic Planning and Business Development Executive for a number of hospital and healthcare systems throughout the New England region.
Julia raised her two children in Chelmsford, MA, where she met some of her closest lifelong friends. While her children moved off to college, Julia developed a passion for riding horses and became a skilled rider in the art of dressage. She consistently sought out opportunities to share her passion for horseback riding by volunteering her time helping disabled youth and military veterans through equine therapy. She continued her passion for riding well after she was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in August 2022. Julia could be found in a barn or on a beach with a book in her hand. As her career wound down, she took on a new role as grandma to her four grandchildren, whom she cherished deeply.
Julia is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Katharine L. and Scott W. Evans of Chelmsford, MA, and by her son and daughter-in-law, Michael P. and Kristen E. Fitzpatrick of Chelmsford, MA; 4 grandchildren, Jackson, Presley, Sloane and Sadie; her mother and her husband, Lois Eberhart and Donald Noffsigner of Lavallette, NJ; two sisters and their husbands, Linda and Mark Mahaffey of Orlando, FL and Kathy and Digby Christmas of Godstone, Surrey, UK; along with many loving nieces and nephews.
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Paul E. Curtis on August 28, 2023.
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Barry Johnson on October 2, 2023. Barry Johnson, born 5/26/1958 in San Angelo, Tx, passed away on Oct 2, 2023 after a lengthy battle with Leukemia. Barry graduated from Allegheny in both 1980 and 81. He was a member of Delta Tau Delta. His whole career was working for GTE/Verizon, and he retired at 49. He is predeceased by his father James (Rocky) and his brother Lawrence (Lonnie). He is survived by his mother Helen, sister Helayne, and brother Todd. He leaves behind his wife of 28 years Dee, 6 children, and 8 grandchildren.
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Christopher “Chris” Keating on October 7, 2023. Christopher Keating, 63, of Erie, PA passed away peacefully at his home on October 7, 2023, after battling ALS disease. He was surrounded by his loved ones, basking in the unconditional love he had always given them.
Born in Pittsburgh, PA on March 4, 1960, Chris was the eldest son of the late Peter and Ruth “Gretchen” Keating. After attending Our Lady of Peace School, he graduated from Cathedral Preparatory School in 1978. He enjoyed being a part of the bowling team, playing basketball with his neighbors and colleagues, and working various summer jobs.
In 1981, Chris earned a bachelor’s degree in history from Allegheny College. To support himself during the 1980 recession, he moved to New Orleans, LA, where he worked as a manager at Wendy’s. In 1984, he returned to the Erie area, dedicating 18 years as a manager in the rent-to-own industry. In 2002, he transitioned to the Pennsylvania Auditor General’s office, where he worked as an auditor until January of the current year.
In Erie, he met his wife, Lisa (Diehl) of Greensburg, PA on a blind date. They were married at St. Jude Parish on March 28, 1992. Together, they built and nurtured Lisa’s DJ business, Entertainment by Keating for three decades. Chris was the well-known “unpaid roadie” alongside Lisa, bringing music, dancing, karaoke, and joy to thousands in the Erie community.
In August of 2002, Chris and Lisa traveled to China to adopt their first child, Sarah Keating, and returned in March of 2004 to adopt their second child, Elizabeth “Ellie” Keating. Chris loved being a dad. His time was spent driving and supporting his daughters in Tae Kwon Do lessons at Mancino Academy, dance classes and competitions with Spotlight Dance Studio by Stacey Kabasinski, soccer practices for OLCS and EYSA, or theatrical performances with Corella Productions. He was a dedicated fan to his daughters and friend to their coaches and teachers.
Chris also devoted many days to serving his friends and family at Our Lady’s Christian School and St. Jude Apostle Church events. His service continued as his children moved to Mercyhurst Preparatory School, where he was an active in the performing arts department and student government. Chris held cherished memories of the lifelong friends he acquired through service, events, and many excursions.
In his later years, Chris found contentment in a simple life in his hometown, enjoying his porch and the weather, cracking witty dad-jokes, watching action movies and HGTV shows, discussing sports with his brother Pat, and frequenting Erie’s food spots-especially Popeye’s Chicken for his beloved Louisiana fried chicken.
Chris was preceded in death by his parents, Peter and Ruth, as well as several aunts, uncles, and cousins.
He leaves behind his wife of 31 years, Lisa, and their children Sarah and Ellie, along with their faithful dog Boo Bear, and parents-in-law Ronald and Eleanor Diehl. His brother Patrick Keating, sister-in-law Kathryn, and their children Patrick, John, Paul, and Maureen of Fairfax, VA. Brother-in-law Ron (Amanda) Diehl, and Jack and James. First cousins Emily Blake, James (Sue) Hewitt, John (Sue) Dailey, Paul (Angela) Dailey, Tom (Kathy) Dailey, and Carol (Keith) Cron. Great cousin, Marilyn Gerrell. And many more relatives from afar.
Yuko Iino Love on July 15, 2023. Yuko Iino Love and her husband David Love ’82 were swept away by the flash flood that occurred near Washington Crossing, PA on July 15, 2023. David survived but Yuko did not. She is also survived by her father Yuhachi and sister Masako, who reside in Tokyo and Yokohama, Japan, respectively. Her mother Harue had passed away in 2021. Since Japan does not allow dual citizenship, she retained her Japanese citizenship. Yuko was a young, healthy, active and attractive 64-year-old.
Yuko and Dave have resided in Newtown, PA since 1997. They did not have children but owned (one at a time) two golden retrievers: Gina (2000-2005) and Cassie (2006-2021). They frequently enjoyed sharing their dog with other pedestrians, performing a multitude of tricks using commands in English and Japanese, as well as using hand signals. Per Yuko’s wishes, the dogs’ ashes will be included with her ashes.
Yuko was born and raised in Tokyo. In order to immerse herself in English, she attended Allegheny College in Meadville, PA. She completed a degree in Music with honors in 2 ½ years, but she also took courses in advanced mathematics (calculus, linear algebra, probability & statistics) and computer science (programming, data structures). She was a member of the Allegheny College choir, which is where she first met Dave, but their romance did not start until they both returned to Meadville for a choir reunion in 1989.
Besides being very intelligent (she could write and speak fluently in Japanese, English and German), Yuko was gregarious. She made friends everywhere she went: each gym she joined (a daily ritual for Yuko and Dave), her coworkers in pharmaceutical market research, Dave’s coworkers, people she met on vacations. She genuinely cared about her numerous friends.
As Dave often said, “everybody loves Yuko”. She was well known for her affinity for “Hello Kitty”, snoopy, and all things Disney. Dave and Yuko visited all the Disney parks in Florida and Tokyo.
Yuko and Dave did almost all their adventures together. In their younger years they alternated their annual vacations between scuba diving in the Caribbean and sightseeing across Japan. Almost every year included numerous trips to NYC to see Broadway plays with friends and to partake in fine dining. Yuko always told Dave how happy she was that he was open minded to trying new and different cuisine. There were almost annual trips around the US to visit friends and Dave’s large extended family. Attending college choir reunions was a high priority.
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Stephen W. Minnigh on October 27, 2023. Stephen W. Minnigh, 58, passed away suddenly on Friday, October 27th, 2023 in the presence of his loving family.
He has been the beloved husband of Christina (Focosi) Minnigh for 22 years and a loving father to 5 boys; twins Zachary and Kadyn Minnigh, T.J. DiGiantommaso, Bryce Minnigh, and Tyler Minnigh.
Stephen was born on April 1st, 1965 to Wendell E. Minnigh Jr. ’59 and Beverly Bell Minnigh ’60 in McKeesport, PA. He lived in Harbor Creek, PA; Rock Hill and Bath, NY; Milford, Manchester, and Hooksett, NH before ultimately finding his forever home in Berwick, ME.
Stephen had an incredibly sharp mind. After graduating from high school in Bath, NY as Valedictorian in 1983, he earned his BS in Physics at Allegheny College and an MS in Physics from Carnegie Mellon University. He was a fourth-generation Alleghenian and a member of Alpha Chi Rho. He continued his studies at U. Mass., Lowell while working at Lockhead Martin. He subsequently worked at Palomar, Kollsman, and for the past four years at Raytheon Technologies where he was a Supervisory Engineer. Steve loved teaching and taught many high school physics and math courses in Exeter, Concord, and Nashua South High School in NH. He also taught as an adjunct professor at several regional community colleges.
Steve’s interests included triathlons, cycling, Mustangs, coaching and playing soccer with his sons, playing trombone, Invicta watch collecting, building Legos, and volunteering with his family. He also compassionately fostered five children. As an avid Pittsburgh Steelers fan he had followed them faithfully and had a large collection of memorabilia. He also took great pride in maintaining his home and yard and loved having campfires with s’mores in the backyard. He was very proud of his achievements which included earning the Eagle Scout award in Boy Scouts and earning a trophy for his beautifully maintained 2011 Mustang at a car show.
Steve participated actively in the United Methodist Churches his father served. He most recently attended the Bow Mills United Methodist Church in Bow, NH, with his family. His strong faith guided him in life decisions and his character development.
Stephen is predeceased by his father, Rev. Dr. Wendell E. Minnigh, Jr. Stephen is survived by beloved wife Christina, sons Zachary and Kadyn of Berwick, Thomas (T.J.) DiGiantommaso of Boston, and Tyler and Bryce of San Antonio, mother Beverly Minnigh of Concord, NH, and sister Cynthia (Christopher) Runyan of Washington D.C., and a large extended family and many friends.
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Chris A. Daverse on June 21, 2023. Chris A. Daverse, 57, of Austin, Texas, formerly of Greensburg, died Wednesday, June 21, 2023. He was born Dec. 17, 1965, in Greensburg, the son of Betty (Mason) Daverse and Dominick Daverse. Chris was a graduate of Hempfield Area High School and Allegheny College in Meadville. Chris was a talented business development professional, known for his generosity, intelligence and integrity. A native of Greensburg, Chris was a member of Boy Scout Troop 419, earning his Eagle Scout badge in 1983. In high school, Chris became certified as an emergency response tech, one of the youngest to work in Westmoreland County emergency services. He graduated from Allegheny College with a bachelor’s degree in physics, where he was a member of the jazz band. Additionally, Chris was dedicated to every single dog he ever met and was committed to providing comfort and care to many foster dogs through English Springer Rescue. After graduating from Allegheny College, Chris worked at SEMATECH in Austin, Texas, as a process engineer, eventually moving into managing relationships between the semiconductor industry and the U.S. government. In 2003, he became an independent consultant specializing in building and managing industry-government relationships. Chris is survived by his mother, Betty Daverse; his father, Dominick Daverse and wife, Eileen; and several aunts and cousins. He will be missed by his former wife, Sally Mayo, and his many friends in Pennsylvania and across the country. He was preceded in death by his grandparents and many Springer Spaniels.
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Alice Voigt on October 3, 2023. It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved, Alice Voigt. Alice was not just a colleague but a dear friend to all of us at LCM. Her dedication to accessibility and service has left an indelible mark on our hearts and the work we do.
Alice’s career spanned over two decades, during which she became an authority on accessibility standards and regulations. Her extensive experience in disability-related work and her dedication to making the world a more accessible place left an enduring impact on all who had the privilege of working alongside her.
But Alice was more than just a professional. She was a compassionate advocate for the rights and dignity of all individuals. Her belief that accessibility and inclusive design benefits everyone was not just a philosophy but a guiding principle that she put into practice every day.
Those who knew her best remember how she could always make them laugh, adding a touch of warmth and humor to every situation.
In addition to her work, Alice engaged in direct service for people with disabilities, helping them lead independent lives. Her kindness, empathy, and dedication touched countless lives and left an indelible legacy of support and empowerment.
Alice worked with the National Center on Accessibility (NCA) for 12 years. Their mission was to improve access to recreation and leisure opportunities for people with disabilities; therefore, much of her work has involved local, state, and national parks as well as private recreation and tourism facilities. She had a special connection with the outdoors, and her passion for nature and recreation was evident in her commitment to accessible experiences for all.
Beyond her career, Alice was a passionate traveler, a lover of national parks and museums, a theater enthusiast, and a devoted family member. Her favorite song, “Moon River,” spoke to her appreciation for life’s journey, and her loyalty to all things Pittsburgh was unwavering.
Alice passed away on Tuesday, October 3rd, following a brave battle with cancer. Her strength, resilience, and grace in the face of adversity continue to inspire us all.
We will honor Alice Voigt’s memory by carrying forward her passion for accessibility, service, and inclusivity. She will be profoundly missed, but her spirit will forever remain a guiding light in our firm and in the lives she touched.
Rest in peace, dear Alice.
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Dr. Patrick Michael Martinucci on September 28, 2023. Dr. Patrick Michael Martinucci, 47, went home to the Lord on Sept. 28, 2023. After a valiant four-year journey with cancer, he passed gently and beautifully at home, surrounded by his loving family.
Patrick was a bit of a surprise mid-life baby for his parents, Arthur R. and Helen Ann (McLaughlin) Martinucci. Before he arrived, he was going to be christened Vincent Rafael, but the shock of his red hair changed everything. Instead, when he arrived on Aug. 16, 1976, his mother suggested Patrick Michael for her favorite saint and archangel.
At Pat’s baptism, Fr. Daly said that he would have been unwilling to name Patrick anything else.
Pat’s father was fond of home videos, which in the 1970s required a very strong light. Pat was so fair that he practically glowed — the camera was unable to capture his features.
Adoring big sister Tammy treated Pat like her very own baby doll, doting on him and carrying him around until he grew too big for her to lift.
Older brother Artie often took the blame for little Patrick’s mischief, even on one occasion when Pat mistakenly hit him with a hoe. Upset that he’d hurt his big brother, Patrick broke into tears, and the bellow of “Artie!” from their dad left no question who was to blame for getting in the way.
From a young age, Patrick had many talents. He played piano, he danced, and was a competitive athlete in soccer, tennis and baseball. At Erie Cathedral Prep, Patrick’s skill and determination as sweeper contributed to many Rambler victories.
Patrick attended Allegheny College, where he continued to play collegiate soccer. After graduating from Allegheny with a BS in Chemistry, he attended The Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, where he earned his Doctorate of Osteopathic Medicine.
While completing his Internal Medicine Residency at The Western Pennsylvania Hospital in Pittsburgh, Pat received the 2005-2006 Professionalism Award for the individual who best exemplifies the ideals of professionalism in medicine. He then completed his nephrology fellowship at the State University of New York in Buffalo. He joined The Kidney Group in 2008 and went on to become a partner there. His colleagues at The Kidney Group fondly remember his sly sense of humor, endless well of empathy for patients, and rapport with staff and strangers alike. Patrick also served as Assistant Professor of Internal Medicine at Northeast Ohio Medical University.
While attending Allegheny College, Patrick met the love of his life, Amy Cappabianco ’98. She was captivated by the gentle redhead who was unwilling to euthanize his lab rat after their shared psychology lab. They married in her hometown of New Castle, Pennsylvania, in 2001, celebrating with plentiful cousins, siblings, aunts, uncles and grandparents.
Pat’s family was his everything. Pat and Amy welcomed three amazing sons, Luke, Max and Carson (named for Amy’s beloved mother, Carmie, and sister, Alison), who truly blossomed under their parents’ devoted care.
The Martinuccis loved to travel with their children. Over the years, the family ventured throughout the United States, the Caribbean and Europe. This summer, Pat had the strength to take his family on a Mediterranean cruise, where they visited Turkey, Greece and Italy.
Pat enjoyed cooking a meal for his family to enjoy together and fishing with the boys. He was most passionate about his son’s endeavors. He enjoyed watching his son, Luke, a trained classical pianist, perform at recitals and at home. He was known as the loudest father at Max and Carson’s soccer games, willing to explain the offsides rule to anyone who would listen, including the referees.
Pat now dwells in the Lord’s embrace with his father, Art; mother-in-law, Carmie; sister-in-law, Alison; grandmother, Mary Bruno Tetuan; uncle, Vinnie Tetuan; grandfather, Vincent Tetuan; and dear cousin, Paula Bruno Bixby.
In addition to his wife and children, he leaves behind his beloved mother, Helen Ann; father-in-law, Mark Cappabianco; brother, Artie ’88 (and wife Deb); sister, Tammy ’90; nieces, Kellie-Sue (and husband, Luke), Jessie (and husband, Joe), Morgan, Rhiannon, and Tori; and nephew, Sam (and fiancée Addie), all of whom truly adored their “Uncle Pagoo,” as well as countless cousins on both sides of the families.
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Jermaine Mitchell on August 13, 2023, Alumnus, Former Assistant Football Coach, and Former Student Life Coordinator – Residence Life
Born on September 7, 1989, in Brooklyn, New York, Mitchell was the epitome of kindness, compassion, and integrity. His laughter was infectious, his work ethic unparalleled, and his loyalty unwavering.
As a former defensive line player, Mitchell proudly showcased his dedication and passion on the field. He began at Xaverian High School as a defensive tackle, helping the school capture their first and only CHSFL AA City Championship in 2006. He then went on to become a four-year starter at Allegheny from 2007-2010, where he majored in economics and minored in math. During his senior year, he earned Second Team All-NCAC honors. His subsequent coaching journey took him to Marietta College, the University of Charleston, Gannon University, and eventually back to Allegheny. Most recently, in 2022, he served as the linebackers and special teams coordinator at North Carolina Wesleyan College.
In addition to his beloved wife Olivia Lang Mitchell ’11 and their newborn, Maya, Mitchell is survived by his parents, Rudolph and Patricia Mitchell; siblings Jason, and his wife, Kehnesha, Rudolph Mitchell Jr., his nieces, and a large circle of in-laws including Pamela Dailey, Jeff Lang and Sandy Wycoff Lang ’77, Maxwell ’09, Nicole, Quinn, and Nolan Lang, Veronica Lang ’14 and Travis Pratt, Isabel Lang, and Sara and Jeff Handler.
Friends
Barbara Charlton Adams on August 2, 2023. Barbara Charlton Adams of Meadville, PA and Hyannis Port, MA, died on August 2, 2023 after a brief illness.
Born to Robert Norman and Lillian Charlton in Toronto, Ontario on April 8, 1935, Barbara was raised in Boston. She started her primary education at the Boston Girl’s Latin School and completed it at the West Roxbury High School graduating in 1953. During her high school years, Barbara studied ballet at the Alicia Langford School of Ballet, a professional ballet school directed by Edwin Binney.
Barbara attended Brown University (Pembroke College), graduating in 1957 with a degree in English. At Brown she wrote dance and music reviews for the school paper and formed many lifelong friendships.
After graduation, Barbara enjoyed a period of international travel with her dear friend and fellow Brown alumna, Barbara S. Tessmer.
Barbara studied library sciences in New York and Boston and was a librarian at MIT’s Dewey Library specializing in Economics, Industrial Relations and Management where she met her future husband, Earl Adams, Jr., a Ph.D candidate at MIT. They were married in Boston on August 4, 1964.
Barbara and Earl subsequently moved from Amherst to Pittsburgh ending up in Meadville, where Earl became the Andrew Wells Robertson Professor of Economics at Allegheny College.
An avid reader, proud feminist and devoted balletomane, Barbara was also a certified indexer and trained editor. Throughout her life she belonged to numerous book groups and clubs. Barbara was also a devoted patron and financial supporter of the Meadville and Hyannis Public Libraries.
She is survived by her husband of 58 years, Earl, Jr. and two sons, Earl, III of New York City and Nicholas of Pittsburgh, PA.
David Bruce Allen on June 20, 2023. David Bruce Allen, founder and Head Coach of the UNCW Swimming and Diving teams passed away on June 20, 2023, after a long courageous fight.
David or Dave, as most everyone called him, was born on October 15, 1947, in Rochester, NY to Gordon LaVerne and Iva May Birmingham Allen. He graduated from Irondequoit High School in 1965 and began his college education at Springfield College in Springfield, MA. Dave’s dad had been the coach of many different teams and the Athletic Director at Irondequoit High and Dave decided at an early age he wanted to follow in his father’s footsteps, but his heart, soul and passion was swimming. He received his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in physical education from Springfield College and began his college coaching career at Allegheny College in Meadville, PA. One year later he took the head coaching position at Potsdam State University, Potsdam, NY where he had a very successful six years coaching the men’s swim team.
In 1977 he moved his small family to Wilmington, NC and began both the Mens and Women’s swim teams at UNCW. He has left a lasting impact on decades of students, student-athletes and young swimmers in his 37 years of outstanding service to the Athletic Department and UNCW. David coached the men’s team to 13 unprecedented consecutive Colonial Athletic Association championships from 2002-2014 and two Eastern titles and the women’s team to three CAA championships from 1977-2014. He received 15 CAA Coach of the Year honors and six of his swimmers qualified for the NCAA Championships.
He wanted his swimmers to excel in the pool, but also to excel in their academics, insisting on study hall and keeping in touch with their professors. Nine of his Seahawks received the Chancellor’s Cup, the highest academic honor for student-athletes and another was the first UNCW student-athlete to earn an NCAA post graduate scholarship. Dave was inducted into The Potsdam State University Athletic Hall of Fame, The Greater Wilmington Sports Hall of Fame, the NC Swimming Hall of Fame, the UNCW Athletics Hall of Fame and in 2022 the UNCW natatorium was dedicated and renamed The David B. Allen Natatorium in his honor.
The student-athletes that came through his program knew he wanted them to achieve their very best both in the pool and in their academics; many close relationships were formed with firm friendships continuing long after graduation. He loved hearing from alumni from UNCW and also kept in touch with Potsdam State alumni. He thoroughly enjoyed his coaching career and was devoted to the University of North Carolina at Wilmington.
Numerous young children learned how to swim through the Learn-to-Swim Program Dave and Ellen started in 1978 from their kitchen table. Local children and now grandchildren have flowed through the program where he himself enjoyed introducing the youngest children to the joy of swimming.
David is survived by his college sweetheart and much loved wife of 52 years, Ellen Reynolds Allen, his three beloved children and his well loved son and daughters-in-law; Matthew Gordon Allen, wife Angela of Marblehead, MA, Stephanie Allen Hoffman, husband Darrin of Rocky Point, NC and Brian David Allen, wife Crissie of Wilmington, NC. All three children were thrilled to attend UNCW and be a Seahawk on the UNCW Swim and Dive team and be coached by their father. His two brothers survive him as well, Richard P. Allen (Judy) of Rochester, NY and William G. Allen (Patricia) of LaGrange, GA. He dearly loved his six grandchildren and so enjoyed being with them – Collin Allen, Hudson Allen, Rowan Allen, Bryson Allen, Abigail Hoffman and Henry Hoffman.
David was a member of Windermere Presbyterian Church for over twenty years and served as an Elder and Clerk of the Session. Many wonderful friendships were formed with his church family, and he deeply appreciated all the love, prayers and support sent his way during his illness.
Gerard R. Bey on September 24, 2023. Gerard R. Bey, Jr. died on Sunday, September 24, 2023. Jerry was formerly of Conneaut Lake, Pennsylvania and a parishioner of Queen of the America’s Catholic Community. He was born and raised in Sheraden and was a member of the first graduating class of Holy Innocents High School in 1959. He served in the U.S. Army as a Staff Sergeant in Germany and was a retired Pennsylvania State Trooper out of the Meadville Barracks. He enjoyed the monthly gatherings with his fellow retired officers. He was the beloved husband of the late Jeannette McGuire Bey and loving father of Theresa ’07 (Jess) Williams and Elizabeth Bey. Dear grandfather of Ruby, Peter and Penny. Son of the late Gerard R. Bey, Sr. and Irene Capretti Bey. Brother of Patricia Rodgers-Dowd, Frank E. (Linda) Bey, Beatrice, William and the late Joseph Bey and uncle to numerous nieces and nephews.
Dick Biddle on August 11, 2023. Richard Lee Biddle, age 75, of Charlottesville, Virginia passed away on Friday, August 11, 2023.
Donald Ray Boatman on July 18, 2023. Former employee of Allegheny College.
Luciana Antonia Bohne on August 9, 2023. On August 9, 2023 Luciana Antonia Bohne, nee Opassi, passed away after a short illness, leaving behind a world impoverished by her departure.
Born December 12, 1939 in Cerreto, Istria (part of Italy at the time, later Yugoslavia, and now Croatia), Luciana had a small-village childhood prior to the day in May 1948 when her family was forced to flee, traveling first to Italy and ultimately to the United States. Her early experiences were to affect Lucy profoundly throughout her lifetime; a grandfather, an uncle, and an aunt were killed during the war, and, as a five-year-old, she was strafed by a plane, traumatized but not injured. As a war refugee, Lucy was forever haunted by the past and by the spectre of other wars. When asked her nationality of origin, Lucy (as she did in a 2002 essay) would describe herself as “a Slav-Italian from the northeast of the Italian peninsula,” since during her lifetime three different powers serially claimed the area of her birth.
While studying Spanish at New York University she met Frederick John Bohne, the love of her life; a man she described as being perfect in “decency and intelligence.” They married and had a daughter, Catherine, in 1968. When Fred was hired at Edinboro University of Pennsylvania, the family settled in this area. After years spent moving around during childhood, unsure of her safety, Lucy was happy to make a stable, secure home for her family. An incomparable hostess, cook and baker, Lucy delighted in entertaining, and for every holiday invited into her home people who did not have relatives nearby with whom to celebrate. Over time, after Fred died in 1990, Lucy made her home into an artistic salon, a haven where people could discuss books, current events, or their own creative works. Between 1977 and her retirement in 2014, Lucy taught courses in Film, World Literature, English, and Women’s Studies at a number of local universities, including Allegheny College, Mercyhurst University, and Penn State Behrend. At Edinboro University of Pennsylvania she was tenured and taught for more than two decades, always challenging her students to think critically and write clearly. Some former students remained in close contact with Lucy and became her treasured friends. A scholar with many interests, Lucy co-founded Film Criticism in 1975, a journal that brings together cinema and media studies and still operates today. While at Edinboro University she was a founding member of the North Africa/West Asia Studies Committee. Ever curious and passionate, Lucy’s final years were devoted to a sudden passion for China – history, modern politics, and culture. She was learning Mandarin. After her retirement, Lucy began writing for the online political and literary journal, Counterpunch.
Besides cooking, Lucy enjoyed crocheting and gardening; her yard was always a showplace full of lush growth. Lucy loved animals, having had a series of feline and canine companions over the years, and she always kept full bird feeders on her deck.
Lucy leaves behind her beloved daughter, Catherine, relatives in Italy and her current Shih Tzu companion, Mao. Luciana is terribly missed by her many friends.
Dr. Alice Solomon Gertzog on August 11, 2023. Dr. Alice (Solomon) Gertzog died in Manhattan on August 11, 2023. The daughter of Louis and Betty (Itzkowitz) Solomon, Alice attended public schools in Brooklyn; received a BA from Antioch College (1956), a Master’s Degree in Library Science from Catholic University (1961), and a PhD. in Communication, Information and Library Studies from Rutgers University (1989). Alice was a committed librarian, scholar and teacher. As a reference librarian at the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, and as head of reference at New Haven Public Library, she excelled at helping patrons find the information they sought. Later, as Director of the Meadville, PA Public Library, she instilled in her staff the importance of public service. She also authored and co-authored four books on Library Administration. Alice was a superb teacher, admired by colleagues for bringing out the best in students. Later in her career, she offered courses in writing and literature at Allegheny College (Pennsylvania) and at SUNY New Paltz. Alice lit up the lives of students, colleagues and friends. She was a champion of social justice. Her family cherished her and is deeply saddened by her loss. Survivors include Irwin, her husband of 66 years; children Joshua ’80 and Rachel (Rodrigo Naranjo) and five grandchildren Johana, Ben, Sam, Jesse, Sophia, nephew Philip and niece Beverly
Carl G. “Butch” Gilliland on November 27, 2023. Retiree, Former Material Control Coordinator
Gilliland attended Conneaut Valley High School. He then served our country in the United States Army for 12 years including a tour of duty in Vietnam.
For 28 years, he worked in the maintenance department at Allegheny and retired in 2005.
Survivors include his loving wife of 61 years, Janice Young Gilliland; a daughter, Barbara (Robert) Kurtz; two sons, Jeffrey (Theresa) Gilliland and Gregory (Molly) Gilliland; four grandchildren, Madison, Hailey, Teagan, and Lincoln; and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Kenneth and Elizabeth (Linn) Gilliland; five brothers, Clyde, Kenneth (Red), Peter, Frederick (Fritz), and William Gilliland; and a sister, Betty Troup.
Rosalind “Roz” Jean Hupp on August 7, 2023. Rosalind Jean Hupp, of Warren, PA, passed into the arms of her Lord and Savior on Monday, August 7, 2023, with her daughter, son-in-law, and pastor at her side.
Rosalind, known as ‘Roz’ to many, was born to Hobart Emerson Hupp and Talitha Isabel Kuhn Hupp on February 2, 1932, in Chillicothe, OH. She lived an amazing 91 ¢ years on this earth, sharing her faith, talents, kindness, humor, and generosity with countless people.
A top graduate of Chillicothe High School, Class of 1950, Rosalind set out to achieve her childhood dream of becoming an opera singer. Her studies at Boston University and New England Conservatory of Music afforded her much experience with notable conductors such as Sarah Caldwell and Boris Goldovsky.
She went on to grace audiences with her unforgettable mezzo-soprano voice, singing oratorios, recital tours throughout the US and Europe, making recordings, and performing more than 40 roles with leading opera companies throughout the United States.
She was an A.G.M.A. Showcase Award Winner, which earned her a Judson Hall recital in NYC, and the recipient of two Martha Baird Rockefeller Grants, and a Kathryn Long Scholarship.
She won the role of the Mother Abbess with the Second National Touring Company of The Sound of Music in 1962-63, touring the US and Canada for nine months.
Rosalind made her Metropolitan Opera Association debut in the Fall of 1967 in Die Walkure, conducted by Maestro Herbert von Karajan. She also sang in numerous temples and churches, including Marble Collegiate Church in NYC, as the alto soloist during the tenure of Dr. Norman Vincent Peale.
In 1975, Roz moved her family to Warren, PA, and became the administrative assistant to the president of United Refining Company, working in various positions within the company before retiring in 2001. During her time there, she began writing a column, a la Erma Bombeck, for the company’s newsletter titled, ‘Roz’s Rhetoric,’ which later was published monthly in the local magazine “Steppin’ Out.”
She also continued her evolving music career as Assistant Professor of Voice at Allegheny College (1978-1990); soloist and youth choir/handbell choir director at Trinity Memorial Church, Warren; and maintained a private voice studio in Warren until 2020, through which she became a teacher, mentor, and friend to hundreds of students of all ages.
Locally, Rosalind was one of the original members of the Board of the Friends of the Library Theatre, acting as secretary for many years. She was a performing member of the Philomel Club, as well as a past president, and a member of the First Lutheran Church, where she was part of the Senior Fellowship Group, Bible Study, and prayer shawl ministry, knitting more than 100 prayer shawls to comfort those going through trying times.
Always wanting to share her love and knowledge of her craft, Roz created and performed operalogues for civic organizations and schools, introducing people to the world of opera. She formed the ‘Ensemble Musica’ in the late 1980s with a few close friends who were singers/ music teachers. The musical group performed artistic concerts throughout the region for 20 years, often inviting guest musicians to join them. They shared their love of music and their faith, giving free-will concerts regularly during the Christmas and Easter seasons.
In 1981, Rosalind created, organized, and directed the Warren Festival of the Arts, which became an annual event for 39 years, showcasing local talent, bringing the community together, and giving many their first chance to perform on the historic Struther’s Library Theatre’s beautiful stage. She received the Jaycees’ Community Service Award that first year, and was ultimately granted a key to the City of Warren for her efforts.
A life-long learner, Roz completed a Bachelor’s degree in Professional Studies from SUNY, Empire State College when she was in her fifties. She felt fortunate to be able to travel in her retirement years, and explored five continents, making many friends during her travels.
Just prior to her passing, Roz was humbled to learn of her inclusion in an upcoming exhibit at the Ross County Historical Society in her hometown of Chillicothe, OH, paying tribute to her exceptional music career and life-long contributions to the Arts.
Of all the roles and achievements during her lifetime, Roz considered the greatest of them to be raising her twins.
Left to cherish her memory and continue her legacy are her children William Larry Hayes, Jr. (and wife Deborah Nettles) of Mechanicville, NY, and Catherine Hayes Lyon ’90 (and husband Michael) of Warren, PA; two brothers, James R. Hupp (and wife Samantha Hansen) of Charlottsville, VA, and William M. Hupp (and wife Patricia) of Perrysburg, OH; six grandchildren, Adam, Gideon, and Simcha Winter of OH, Veronica Nettles Kolegas (and husband Ryan) of Chicago, IL, and twins Nick and Alex Lyon of Warren, PA; two great-grandsons Milo and Ferris Kolegas; many treasured nieces and nephews, great-nieces and nephews, several great-great-nieces and nephews, and many beloved friends and former students.
In addition to her parents, family members who have passed on before Rosalind include her four sisters and brothers-in-law: Phyllis June Dickhaus (Joseph), Laura Virginia Dennewitz (Kenneth), Barbara Jean Dixon (David), and E. Sue McQuirt (Richard); an infant brother; two nephews, Samuel and Dennis Dennewitz; and twin infant grandchildren, William and Miranda Hayes.
James Jenkins on September 2, 2023. James Jenkins, 63, was born on August 6, 1960 in Meadville. He died on September 2, 2023 in Meadville.
James was employed at Allegheny College, C & J Industries, and Warren Industries.
Richard E. Lundahl on September 8, 2023. Richard E. Lundahl, 88, of Meadville, PA, passed away Friday, September 8, 2023, at Meadville Medical Center.
Richard was born in Warren, PA, on February 7, 1935, a son of the late Elmer T. and Dorothea Erickson Lundahl.
On May 3, 1958, Richard married Jean Carol Nystrom at First Presbyterian Church, Meadville, who survives.
Richard attended First Presbyterian Church, Meadville, and, while growing up, was affiliated with St Paul Lutheran Church in Warren, PA.
Richard was a 1953 graduate of Warren High School where he was a member of the basketball team. He earned his bachelor’s degree in 1957 from Grove City College. From 1958-1960 Richard served his country honorably as a member of the US Air Force in Prestwick, Scotland. For nearly 14 years Richard was employed by the American Viscose/FMC as an Industrial Engineer. In the mid 1970’s he purchased the Isaly’s Store on North St. For the next 20 years he became known as “Mr. Isaly” to countless students who frequented the store before and after school. He was a huge fan and supporter of Allegheny College sports and enjoyed attending their athletic events. In his younger years he was an avid skier.
In addition to his wife, Jean, of 65 years, Richard is survived by two sons: Paul R. Lundahl (Claudia) of Dublin, OH, and Dr. Robert E. Lundahl (Kimberly Samson) of San Francisco, CA. Also, he is survived by a sister, Barbara Reese, of Sun City Center, FL, and a brother-in-law, Donald Nystrom, of Pittsburgh.
In addition to his parents, Richard was preceded in death by a brother, Kenneth Lundahl, and a sister, Dorothy Boyer.
Harold “Mack” McElhaney on November 7, 2023. Harold “Mack” McElhaney was called home on November 7, 2023, in Greensboro, NC after a major stroke. He was born on August 13, 1935 and grew up in Burgettstown, PA.
He is preceded in death by and now reunited with his beloved wife of 62 years, Gloria (Mazzocco) McElhaney; his parents Dorothy (Luttrell) and Harold McElhaney, Sr.; brother James; sister-in-law Phyllis “Petey” McElhaney; brother-in-law Warren Mazzocco; and many other cherished friends, relatives and colleagues.
Mack is survived by his children Jeff of Washington, DC; Mary Lynne and her partner Ginger Watkins of Greensboro, NC; Kellie of Oakland, CA; his grandchildren Griffin Self of Charleston, SC; Mackenzie Self of New York, NY; Isabel Weinerth of San Francisco, CA; and Juliana Weinerth of Oakland, CA; his brother George of Newtown, PA; cousins Doug McElhaney and Claudia McElhaney of St. Petersburg, FL; sister-in-law Susan Mazzocco of Weirton, WV; and nieces and nephews Amy, Georgeann, Phil and Tom McElhaney.
After graduating from high school in 1953, where he was a football and wrestling standout, he was awarded a full scholarship to play football and wrestle for the Duke University Blue Devils. He went on to become team captain and play in two Orange Bowls.
Upon graduating from Duke in 1958 with degrees in history and education, Mack passed up an NFL draft selection from the Philadelphia Eagles to go to grad school, fulfill duties to the Marine Corp. Reserves, then coach high school football in Sturgis, MI. He moved on to Dickinson College in Carlisle, PA before returning to his beloved alma mater Duke University as a coach and administrative assistant to the director of athletics.
In 1970, Mack returned to his home state as athletic director at Allegheny College in Meadville, PA. In 1978 he was hired to head up the athletic department at Ohio University in Athens, OH where he spent 17 successful years, winning 30 Mid-American Conference championships. While there he raised over $1M to overhaul the university stadium complex and helped create one of the first sports administration master’s programs. His proudest achievement at OU was creating PAWS (Providing Athletes With Scholarships), endowing money to increase scholarship opportunities for young people. Because of his focus on student-athlete success, OU football achieved one of the highest graduation rates in the nation.
In 1995 he moved on to NC State as assistant director of compliance and special consultant to the athletic director, in what he thought was his final stint.
In 1998 Mack was coaxed out of retirement for a final “tour of duty” at Duke University as assistant to the athletics director where he lent his fundraising muscle to building Duke’s Pascal Field House, helping to secure a $6M gift from his best friend and teammate Bob Pascal.
Mack’s other career milestones include: Induction into the Duke University Hall of Fame (for two sports), Allegheny College Athletic Hall of Fame, Ohio University Hall of Fame, and Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame. While at Duke he also received UPI honorable mention All-America, ACC Jacobs Blocking Trophy (the only Blue Devil to win it twice), and ACC Wrestling Titles.
To those who knew and loved him, Mack was a widely respected kindhearted, loving, eternally patient and giving man of integrity with a gentle nature that belied his 6’4″ athletic figure and ferocious persona on the football field. He had the kind of wisdom that only comes from a life richly, humbly and colorfully lived. As he grew older, he blossomed from a man of few words into a masterful and gifted storyteller: He lived a storied life and the stories he shared are his legacy and our gifts to pass on.
Mack often said he didn’t want to be remembered as an all-star athlete, coach or athletic director, but rather, a man of faith, family and friends. He was an agent of change through nurturing and mentoring young people, especially those from challenged upbringings, like his own journey. He believed that athletics could teach the most valuable life lessons of all and help instill lifelong discipline, confidence, character, and the inspiration to accomplish any goal and overcome hardship. He was instrumental in creating the first full scholarships for Black football recruits at Duke in the early 60s, and was a staunch advocate of gender equality in women’s sport programs even before Title IX became law. Mack showed his truest colors devotedly caring for his wife Gloria during 11 years of illness. He truly saved his most heroic self for her.
A special thank you to Dr. Mary Lynne McElhaney and her partner G for their tireless and loving day-to-day care of Mack since Gloria’s passing, and to Harmony at Greensboro Senior Living.
Ann M. McEntee on August 7, 2023. Ann M. McEntee, 67, of Fitzwilliam, NH, passed away on August 7, 2023, at the Jack Byrne Center for Palliative and Hospice Care at the Dartmouth Hitchco*ck Medical Center in Lebanon, NH, after a long period of failing health, the result of a thirty-year long battle with scleroderma.
Ann was born July 24, 1956, in Baldwin, NY, the daughter of William and Lucille McEntee. Her parents moved to Wadsworth, OH, where she grew up when she was two years old.
She married Richard Marshall in Annie Merner Chapel on July 20, 1997 and he survives. She is also survived by her brother W.J. McEntee of Corvallis, Oregon. She was preceded in death by her parents.
Ann was a devoted lifelong learner who earned four college degrees, including a BA in Literature from the University of Texas at Austin, an MA in Literature from the University of California, Berkely, a Ph.D. in Theatre Arts from the University of California, Los Angeles, and an MLA from the University of New Mexico, Albuquerque.
She held faculty positions at Illinois College and Allegheny College and taught part-time at several other institutions. While in Fitzwilliam she taught a variety of architectural, landscape and cultural history courses for the Cheshire Academy for Lifelong Learning at Keene State College, a teaching experience she much enjoyed.
Ann engaged in charitable and civic activities, she helped deliver meals-on-wheel, knitted scarves for the homeless, was a member of the Friends of the Fitzwilliam Library and was elected a Trustee of the Fitzwilliam Library.
She led an active lifestyle and had numerous interests including gardening (she earned Master Gardener status in three states), architectural and landscape history, theatre, music, knitting, sewing, and reading.
Rebecca A. Schreckengost on July 29, 2023. Rebecca A. Schreckengost, 66, of Meadville, passed away on July 29, 2023, in Meadville. She was born on March 13, 1957, in Meadville.
Rebecca attended Meadville schools. She was employed at Allegheny College.
Robert G. Seddig, Ph.D. on January 11, 2024, Retiree, Professor Emeritus of Political Science
During more than four decades on the Allegheny faculty, Professor Seddig exemplified the very best of a teacher-scholar. His legacy includes teaching and mentoring thousands of students in political science, particularly in constitutional law and law and American politics.
In 2009, Professor Seddig was honored with the Julian Ross Award for Excellence in Teaching, a testament to the lasting difference he made in his students’ lives. Among his nominations for the award, one alumnus reflected that Professor Seddig taught “in a way that would capture his students’ imaginations and get them to think about how to solve problems,” and others reflected on his hands-on teaching, which ranged from open forum-style debates to semester-long case studies that encouraged students to have an active role in their learning.
Professor Seddig regularly led trips for students to Washington, D.C., so they could connect and learn directly with professionals in law, policy, and government. His colleagues in the Political Science Department also note that his passion for justice and equity ran through his academic work. Professor Seddig served as chair of political science and served on a wide range of college committees throughout his career. In 2016, his legacy was honored with the establishment of the Robert G. Seddig Chair in Law and Policy.
Larry J. Yartz on August 6, 2023, Former Assistant Professor of Mathematics; Former Treasurer and Director of Institutional Research
Yartz graduated from Moniteau High School in May 1960 and earned a bachelor’s degree in mathematics from Slippery Rock State University, graduating summa cum laude. After graduating from Slippery Rock he was awarded a NASA Fellowship at the University of Oklahoma to pursue a Ph.D. in mathematics. He earned a Master of Arts degree from Oklahoma University in June 1966 in mathematics.
Yartz was an assistant professor of Mathematics at Allegheny and served as the treasurer and director of Institutional Research at Allegheny beginning in 1978 through January 1996. In May 1992 Yartz founded the Meadville Medical Center Foundation where he was president and CEO. He retired from that position in January 1999.
Yartz married Carolyn R. Weilacher in August 1966. He was preceded in death by an infant son, Derek J. Yartz, born May 25, 1970, died May 26, 1970. He is survived by wife Carolyn R. Yartz and daughter, Kristen R. Yartz ’93, son-in-law Jeremy P. Slade, and two granddaughters.
