Helen Jeanette McKinney, 88, formerly of Hazen, died on Tuesday, June 25, 2013, at Jefferson Manor in Brookville, Pa.

Born on December 1, 1924, in Hazen, Pa., she was the daughter of Cad Morey and Mary McGee Morey.

She was married to Matthew McKinney who preceded her in death.

She retired as a packer from Brockway Glass.

She was a member of the Order of the Eastern Star. She actively participated and volunteered with the PEER group through the Jefferson Manor. She also enjoyed genealogy.

Surviving is a son Matthew M. McKinney (Linda) of Somerville, Alabama.

In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by two brothers, George and Clair Morey, and three sisters, Ethel Keefer, Linda Ormsbee, and Edna Martin.

Visitation hours are on Thursday, June 27, 2013, 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. at McKinney Funeral Home on 345 Main Street, Brookville, Pa.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, June 28, 2013, at McKinney Funeral Home with The Rev. Vic Baxter officiating.

Interment will be at Temple Cemetery in Warsaw Twp., Jefferson Co., Pa.

Memorials can be made to PEER Group, in care of the Jefferson Manor, 417 Rt. 28N, Brookville, Pa. 15825

Earl H. Sorlie, 93, a resident of Wesbury United Methodist Retirement Community, passed away there Tuesday, June 25, 2013.

He was born May 3, 1920 in Jewell, Iowa, a son of Einar and Marion Hanson Sorlie. He married Anna Stephens November 13, 1954. Earl was a 1938 graduate of Marshfield High School, Marshfield, WI. In 1939, he joined the Civilian Conservation Corps at City Point, WI. He was a Veteran of World War II, serving in the U.S. Army in the Pacific Theater of Operations. In 1943, Earl was with a unit that participated in the Buna Gona campaign in New Guinea and was awarded the Purple Heart for the wounds he received during the fighting in that campaign. He was also the recipient of 3 bronze battle stars. Earl was a 1949 graduate of Augustana College, Sioux Falls, SD. He was employed by the United Methodist Publishing Company for 30 years, retiring in 1984 as a shipping clerk. Earl was a member of Stone United Methodist Church and was a former board member of the John Brown Society. He had a great love of history and enjoyed square dancing, quilting, and playing ping pong.

Survivors, in addition to his loving wife Anna of 58 years, include numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two brothers, John and Victor Sorlie and a sister, Harriet Hotsenpiller.

Calling hour will be Saturday from 2 to 3 p.m. at McCracken Chapel in Cribbs Home, Wesbury United Methodist Community, 31 N. Park Ave., Meadville where a memorial service will follow at 3:00 p.m. with the Rev. Sarah Roncolato, Pastor of Stone United Methodist Church, officiating. Interment will be in Reno Cemetery. The family suggests memorials may be made to Stone United Methodist Church, 956 S. Main St., Meadville, PA 16335 or the American Heart Assn. (for the research of the St. Jude’s Mechanical Valve), 823 Filmore Ave., Erie, PA 16505.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Robert W. Waid Funeral Home, 581 Chestnut St., Meadville where memories and condolences may be shared at waidfuneralhome.net.

Richard C. (Dick) Pullease, 83, of Oil City, PA, died at 8:30 p.m. on Wednesday June 26, 2013, at Oakwood Heights in Oil City after a period of declining health.

Born Sept. 14, 1929, in Oil City, PA, he was the son of the late Dominic & Anna Guydes Pullease.

Dick was a 1948 graduate of Oil City High School.

A veteran of the United States Army, he had served during the Korean War.

Mr. Pullease had worked as a mechanic at Weaver Chevrolet, White Ford and had his own garage with John O’ Neill for a number of years. He started to work for General Telephone in the 1960’s and would retire from there as a supervisor.

He was a member of the Seneca United Methodist Church.

Dick was married to the former Barbara H. Voith and she preceded him in death on Oct. 17, 2011.

Mr. Pullease enjoyed taking care of his lawn, golfing and spending time with his grandchildren.

He is survived by his son, Randal J. Pullease & his wife Laura, of Oil City, and two grandchildren, Zachary & Emilee Pullease.

He is also survived by a sister, Lillian Hannratty, of Tampa, FL.; two brother-in-laws, Ralph Voith & his wife Mary, of Rockwell City, Iowa, and Phil Amsdell, of Seneca; two sister-in-laws Kay Kifer & her husband Jim, of Seneca, Judy Voith, of Oklahoma; and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by a son, Richard J. (Rick) Pullease; four brothers, Carl, John, Don, and Eugene (Pete) Pullease and three sisters, Theresa Waitkus, Elizabeth Winger and Rose Pullease.

Friends will be received from 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Saturday in the Reinsel Funeral Home. A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. in the funeral home with Rev. William Hopkins presiding.

Interment will take place in Grove Hill Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to Hospice of Crawford County, 310 N. Monroe St., Titusville, PA 16354.

Condolences may be sent at www.reinselfuneralhome.com.

Arrangements are being handled by the Reinsel Funeral Home & Crematory 116 Bissell Ave., Oil City, PA 16301.

James L. “Billy” Fitzgerald, 69, of East Main St. Brookville, Pa., died on Wednesday, June 26, 2013, at home.

Born on December 15, 1943, in Brookville, he was the son of Eugene Fitzgerald and Ruth McCloskey Fitzgerald.

He is survived by Jean Hanford Fitzgerald, the mother of his daughters.

HE was a US Army Veteran, Vietnam Conflict, with an Honorable Discharge and Good Conduct Medal.

He worked as the head mechanic for Owens-Illinois in Brookville, Pa.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by two daughters, Julie Greene (John) of Highland Beach, Fla., and Janna Fitzgerald Price (Lee) of Pensacola, Fla., and a grandson, Jameson Fitzgerald Price

He is also survived by three sisters, Mary Harkless (Jim) of Corsica, Pa., Patricia Von Duyke of Sullivan, Ohio, and Janet (Bine) Ochs of Thurmont, MD.

We was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, William Fitzgerald.

There will be no visitation and service as requested by the family

Arrangements were made by McKinney Funeral Home, 345 Main Street, Brookville, Pa.

Monsignor John Raymond Snyder, 86, died Tuesday, June 25, 2013, at his residence in Erie. Monsignor Snyder was born in Erie on October 16, 1926, the son of John R. and Rosemary Eckl Snyder. He was raised in Ridgway and attended Ridgway public elementary school and graduated from St. Leo Parish High School. During World War II he served in the U.S. Army Quartermaster Corps.

Following the war, he enrolled at Gannon College, Erie, with residence at the old St. Mark Seminary on Third Street to begin studies for the priesthood. Archbishop Gannon assigned him to study philosophy and theology at Christ the King Seminary at St. Bonaventure, New York. He received his degree in philosophy from St. Bonaventure University, and later pursued graduate work at John Carroll University in Cleveland.

He was ordained to the priesthood for the Roman Catholic Diocese of Erie on Ascension Thursday, May 27, 1954 by Auxiliary Bishop Edward P. McManaman, S.T.D. Auxiliary Bishop of Erie. He celebrated his first solemn Mass in his home parish, St. Leo in Ridgway, on May 30, 1954.

His first assignment was as Assistant Pastor at St. Michael Parish in Greenville where he also taught in the parish high school. When the new St. Mark Seminary was opened in Erie in 1959, he was named a member of the first faculty and at the same time served as an assistant at St. Luke Parish for two years. He continued on the faculty full-time while assisting St. Cyprian Parish in Waterford until June 1969.

He was pastor of St. Raphael Parish in Eldred with its missions of St. Mary in Sartwell and St. John in Duke Center from 1969 to 1975. During his tenure he renovated both mission churches and St. Raphael Church and rectory. Bishop Watson appointed him the Dean of McKean and Potter Counties in 1973.

In April of 1975, he was appointed pastor of St. Patrick Parish in Franklin where he remained for twenty-one years. During his time in Franklin, he renovated the entire parish complex and purchased and renovated a new convent for the Sisters of Mercy who staffed the parish. He continually fostered the growth of the parish school by his presence and financial support. He served as Dean of Venango and Clarion Counties for ten years.

Monsignor Snyder served as a diocesan consultor under both Bishop John F. Whealon and Bishop Alfred M. Watson. He was one of the Erie diocesan priests present in Rome during the final session of the Second Vatican Council in 1965. He was named a Prelate of Honor with the title of Monsignor by Pope John Paul II in 1991. He has served as a member of the priests’ retirement board and the Diocesan Finance Council.

Upon retirement from St. Patrick Parish in Franklin on August 1, 1996, he took up residence at Mercy Terrace Apartments in Erie where he served as Chaplain and as a weekend assistant at Holy Rosary Parish. In 1997 Bishop Trautman named him the Bishop’s Delegate for retired priests.

From 2000 to 2010 he served as Chaplain at the Sisters of Mercy Motherhouse during which time he also served as spiritual director for the Erie Carmelite Sisters. In 2010 he became a resident at the Sisters of Mercy Health Care Center where he died peacefully on June 25, 2013.

Friends may call on Sunday, June 30, 2013 at the Sisters of Mercy Motherhouse, 444 East Grandview Blvd., Erie, PA. 16504, from 2:00 pm until the time of the Vigil service at 7:00 pm. Also, on Monday, July 1, 2013 at St. Patrick’s Church, 949 Liberty St. Franklin, PA. 16323, from 2:00 pm until 4:00 pm and then again from 7:00 pm until 9:00 pm. Visitation will continue on Tuesday, July 2, 2013 from 9:00 am until the Funeral Mass at 11:00 am with the Most Reverend Lawrence T. Persico, JCL, Bishop of Erie, officiating. Memorials may be made to the Sisters of Mercy, 444 East Grandview Blvd. Erie, PA. 16504, Mercy Terrace Apartments, 430 East Grandview Blvd. Erie, PA. 16504 or to St. Patrick Church, 949 Liberty St. Franklin, PA. 16323.

The Francis V. Kloecker Funeral Home, Inc. is in charge of Arrangements. Send condolences to www.kloeckerfuneralhome.com

Frances R. Shick, 76, of Rimersburg, PA, passed away on Thursday, June 27, 2013 at VNA Inpatient Hospice of Butler with her family by her side.

She was born in Franklin, PA on May 18, 1937, the daughter of Joseph and Margaret (Angeline) Pastor.

Frances was born and raised in Franklin, graduating from Franklin High School. She lived in Verona for five years and then moved to Rimersburg, calling the area her home ever since. Frances did clerical work for Joy Manufacturing in Franklin and also worked at Glass Containers in Knox. For 30 years, she worked as a sales associate at JCPenney in Clarion and enjoyed getting to know the many customers she served.

She was a member of St. Eusebius Catholic Church and also participated in Young at Heart in East Brady. Traveling was one of her favorite activities and she was happy to have traveled to Spain and Tennessee. Frances also enjoyed listening to country music and she and Fred attended many music shows throughout her life. Family was paramount in her life, and she loved playing golf with her sons and watching her grandchild, Taylor. Frances had the gift of talking to anyone at great lengths and the ability to befriend anyone she met. Her friends and family will always remember her outgoing personality and positive outlook, and she will be greatly missed.

Her memory will be cherished by her loving husband of 45 years, Fred Shick, whom she married November 4, 1967; sons, Eric Shick and wife, Anita, of Rimersburg, and Curt Shick and wife, Erin, of Lancaster; grandchild, Taylor Shick; brothers, Frank Pastor and wife, Carol, of North Hills, John Pastor and wife, Dorothy, of Oil City, and Joe Pastor, of Oil City; and sisters, Mary Kleck and husband, Donald, of Franklin, Rose Beveridge and husband, Neal, of Franklin, and Peg Driscoll, of Erie.

Frances was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Vinny Pastor; and sister, Josaphine McIntire.

Family and friends will be received from 2-4 and 6-8 on Friday, June 28, 2013, at the Bauer-Hillis Funeral Home, 758 Main Street, Rimersburg.

A Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, June 29, 2013, at St. Eusebius Catholic Church, 301 East Second Street, East Brady, at 10 AM with the Rev. William Kuba officiating.

Burial will follow in St. Eusebius Cemetery, East Brady, PA.

Contributions may be made in Frances’ memory to St. Eusebius Church, 301 East Second St., East Brady, PA 16028, or VNA Inpatient Hospice, 115 Technology Dr., Butler, PA 16001.

Debra (Deb) L. Kaltenbach, 54, of Leeper passed away on Thursday, June 27, 2013 at the Clarion Hospital after a lengthy battle with cancer.

Born April 6, 1959, in Clarion she was raised by her grandparents, the late Carl and Olive Swartzfager.

She is survived by her husband Randy Kaltenbach; who she married on April 19, 1980, at St. Joseph Church in Lucinda.

Deb worked at North Clarion Schools for over 15 years as an aide and also enjoyed working with the North Clarion Drama Club on their plays and musicals.

She ran a daycare from her home for many years.

She was a member of the St. Joseph Church of Lucinda. Deb was also active in fund raisers for the Clarion Cancer Center and Relay for Life.

Mrs. Kaltenbach is survived by a son, Michael Kaltenbach and his wife, Makenzie of Leeper and two grandchildren: Kendal and Karissa Kaltenbach. She is survived by two sisters, Sue Hutton of Leander, Texas and Kelly Clinger of Strattanville.

In addition, she is survived by her mother-in-law Joan Kaltenbach of Lucinda. She is also survived by her beloved niece Tina Baumcratz Coleman of Summerville. In addition Deb is survived by a sister-in-law Diane Becker and her husband, Richard of Lucinda; a brother-in-law Roger Kaltenbach and Sara Troup of Strattanville; a brother-in-law Jefferey Kaltenbach of Lucinda; a brother-in-law Tim Kaltenbach and his wife, Charlotte of Lucinda; a sister-in-law Bev Schmader and her husband, Keith of Lucinda; a sister-in-law Laura Schmader and her husband, Jeff of Lucinda; a sister-in-law Patty Kaltenbach and Mike Williams of Rockland; a sister-in-law Debbie Kaltenbach of Lucinda; a brother-in-law Eric Kaltenbach and his wife, Faith of Fryburg; a brother-in-law Kevin Kaltenbach and his wife, Carol of Fryburg; a brother-in-law Matt Kaltenbach of Lucinda and a sister-in-law Missy McCahan and her husband, Greg of Mifflinburg.

In addition to her grandparents, Mrs. Kaltenbach was preceded in death by a brother, Ron Swartzfager and her father-in-law, Joe Kaltenbach.

Friends and family may call on Saturday, June 29, 2013 from 6:00-8:00 P.M. and Sunday June 30 2013, 2:00-4:00P.M. and 6:00-8:00 P.M. at the Borland Funeral Home Inc. in Leeper.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 A.M. on Monday, July 1, 2013 at St. Joseph Church in Lucinda with Rev. Joseph Czarkowski, pastor, as celebrant. Interment will follow in the church cemetery.

The family requests memorial contributions be made to the Borland Funeral Home Inc, P.O. Box 127, Leeper PA 16233 to help defray funeral expenses.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at borlandfh.com.

Irene F. Kinch, 95,  of Sandy Lake, PA. and formerly of Oil City died at 1:30 P.M. Thursday June 27, 2013 at UPMC-Horizon-Greenville after a brief illness.

Born Dec. 23, 1917 in Rouseville, PA., she was the daughter of the late Thomas & Anna Sloan Cochran.

She was married in Ripley, NY. on Aug. 25, 1937 to Raymond E. Kinch and he preceded her in death in 1986.

Mrs. Kinch had been a cook for many years at the Valley Lunch and at the Villa Italia.

She had lived in Oil City for most of her life, moving to Sandy Lake in 1990.

She was a member of St. Columbkille Church in Stoneboro.

Irene was also a member of the Senior Citizen Center in Sandy Lake, she enjoyed crocheting , walking with her friends at the senior center and playing cards.

She is survived by her children, Shirley A.Turner of Sandy Lake, Janet L. and Paul Hogue of Pleasantville, Sandra M. and Paul  Fiorelli of Erie, Thomas and Diane  Kinch of Oil City, Raymond  ( Tim ) & Kimberly Kinch of Greenville; 10 grandchildren; 17 great grandchildren; and 6 great great grandchildren  also survive.

She was preceded in death by 5 sisters, Mary Harper, Margaret Preston, Francis McCammon, Mildred Nicholson and Dorothy Schrum; a grandson Matthew Kinch; and a great great grandson Johnathan Wenner.

Friends will be received from 2-4 and from 7-9 P.M. Saturday in the Reinsel Funeral Home & Crematory

Funeral Services will be held in the Funeral Home on Sunday at 3 P.M. with Fr. Robert Manning, Pastor of St. Columbkille’s Presiding.

Interment will follow in Sunset Hill Memorial Gardens.

Memorials may be made to St. Columbkille Church 2446 Franklin St. Stoneboro, PA. 16153

Condolences may be sent at www.reinselfuneralhome.com

Denise M. Clark, 56, of 10998 Johnson Rd. Titusville, died Thursday afternoon June 27, 2013 at UPMC Hamot in Erie.

Denise was born on January 4, 1957 in Titusville, a daughter of Gerald F. Southwick and the late Mary Wagner Southwick.  She was married to Jeff A. Clark on February 10, 1990 in Titusville.

Denise was a graduate of Titusville High School, class of 1975.  She had been employed at Joy Mining and Machinery in Franklin since 1992.  She had previously been employed at PNC Bank in Titusville.

Denise enjoyed traveling, golfing, taking rides with her pet dogs “Skippy” and “Katie”, and mostly spending time with her grandchildren.

She is survived by her father of Titusville; her husband of Titusville; a son, Chad Weaver and his wife Jennifer of Brookville; three grandchildren, Carson, Bryce, and Owen Weaver; a brother, Gerald F. Southwick, Jr. of Titusville; two sisters, Ronda Anderson and husband Michael of Arlington, VA, and Sherry Vincent and husband Ronald of Hydetown; two aunts; and numerous nieces and nephews which include Corey Vincent of Meadville, Carey Vincent of Ashburn, VA, and Steven Anderson of Arlington, VA.

Friends may call at the Gordon B. Garrett Funeral Home 303 N. Washington St. Titusville on Monday from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 PM at which time the funeral service will be conducted with Pastor Gary Kinnear, officiating.

Interment will be in St. Catharines Cemetery.

The family asks that memorials be made to the Brookville Area Little League P.O. Box 85 Brookville, PA 15825, or to any local Humane Society.

If you would like to leave a condolence for the family, go to garrettfuneralhomeinc.com

Frances R. Shick, 76, of Rimersburg, PA, passed away on Thursday, June 27, 2013 at VNA Inpatient Hospice of Butler with her family by her side.

She was born in Franklin, PA on May 18, 1937, the daughter of Joseph and Margaret (Angeline) Pastor.

Frances was born and raised in Franklin, graduating from Franklin High School. She lived in Verona for five years and then moved to Rimersburg, calling the area her home ever since. Frances did clerical work for Joy Manufacturing in Franklin and also worked at Glass Containers in Knox. For 30 years, she worked as a sales associate at JCPenney in Clarion and enjoyed getting to know the many customers she served.

She was a member of St. Eusebius Catholic Church and also participated in Young at Heart in East Brady. Traveling was one of her favorite activities and she was happy to have traveled to Spain and Tennessee. Frances also enjoyed listening to country music and she and Fred attended many music shows throughout her life. Family was paramount in her life, and she loved playing golf with her sons and watching her grandchild, Taylor. Frances had the gift of talking to anyone at great lengths and the ability to befriend anyone she met. Her friends and family will always remember her outgoing personality and positive outlook, and she will be greatly missed.

Her memory will be cherished by her loving husband of 45 years, Fred Shick, whom she married November 4, 1967; sons, Eric Shick and wife, Anita, of Rimersburg, and Curt Shick and wife, Erin, of Lancaster; grandchild, Taylor Shick; brothers, Frank Pastor and wife, Carol, of North Hills, John Pastor and wife, Dorothy, of Oil City, and Joe Pastor, of Oil City; and sisters, Mary Kleck and husband, Donald, of Franklin, Rose Beveridge and husband, Neal, of Franklin, and Peg Driscoll, of Erie.

Frances was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Vinny Pastor; and sister, Josaphine McIntire.

Family and friends will be received from 2-4 and 6-8 on Friday, June 28, 2013, at the Bauer-Hillis Funeral Home, 758 Main Street, Rimersburg.

A Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, June 29, 2013, at St. Eusebius Catholic Church, 301 East Second Street, East Brady, at 10 AM with the Rev. William Kuba officiating.

Burial will follow in St. Eusebius Cemetery, East Brady, PA.

Contributions may be made in Frances’ memory to St. Eusebius Church, 301 East Second St., East Brady, PA 16028, or VNA Inpatient Hospice, 115 Technology Dr., Butler, PA 16001.

Frank P. Guerra, Jr., 81, of 24221 Byler Rd. Spartansburg, died Friday, June 28, 2013 at the Cambridge Springs Rehab and Nursing Center.

Frank was born on April 23, 1932, in Cleveland, OH, a son of the late Frank and Josephine Piccolo Guerra.

He was married to Patricia Buis on March 8, 1958, in Willoughby, OH.

Frank was a veteran of the Korean War having served in the US Army. He entered the service on Aug. 9, 1950, at Cleveland, OH, and was honorably discharged on Aug. 18, 1953 at Ft. Sheridan, IL with the rank of corporal.

He was a member of the American Legion Post 237 in Union City.

He is survived by his wife of Spartansburg and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by three sisters, Theresa Jacobs, Ann Guerra, and Marie Devine.

Private services will be conducted for the family with full military rites.

Interment will be in Woodlawn Cemetery in Titusville.

The Gordon B. Garrett Funeral Home in Titusville is in charge of arrangements.

Margie S. Hummer, 91, of 46247 Cloverdale Road Titusville, passed away Saturday morning June 29, 2013, at the Golden Living Center in Titusville.

Mrs. Hummer was born on May 23, 1922, at Diamond, the daughter of the late Harry and Mary Alwilda Rice Sharp.

She was married to Basil F. Hummer on Aug. 23, 1944, at Diamond. He preceded her in death on Feb. 29, 2012.

Mrs. Hummer was a graduate of Titusville High School, class of 1939 and a graduate of the Meadville Commercial College.

Mrs. Hummer had been employed as office manager for 19 years at the former Quality Motors until her retirement in 1989. She had also been employed at Robinson’s “Golden Rule” for four years and at Twombly Auto Sales. She was last employed at the former Dick Brown Motors for two years.

She was a member of the Bethel United Methodist Church where she was church treasurer for over 50 years. She was instrumental in establishing the memorial scholarship fund at the church. She also coordinated the effort to write the published church history with the help of Dorothy Dressler.

Mrs. Hummer is survived by five children, Jody Bruckner and husband Charles of New Castle, Cheryl Thurau and husband William of Oil City, Lance Hummer and wife Sherry of Titusville, Trudy Carlson and husband Steven of LatPlatta, MD, and Judy Lundberg and husband Brad of Centerville; 8 grandchildren; 9 great grandchildren; a sister-in-law, Barbara Beauchat Sharp of Marco Island, FL; a brother-in-law, Jerry Hasbrouck of Titusville; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by a sister, Ann Hasbrouck; and three brothers, Roderick “Dick” Sharp, Harry Sharp, and Carl Sharp.

No public calling hours will be observed. A private funeral service for the family will be conducted at the Bethel United Methodist Church with Rev. Jerry Gray, pastor, officiating.

Interment will be in Union Cemetery.

The family asks that memorial contributions be made to the Bethel United Methodist Church.

The Gordon B. Garrett Funeral Home 303 N. Washington St. Titusville is in charge of arrangements.

If you would like to leave a condolence for the family, go to garrettfuneralhomeinc.com.

Virginia M. Harley, 95, of Kennerdell, passed away at UPMC Northwest, Seneca, on Friday, July 12th.

Born February 4, 1918 in Foxburg, Virginia was the daughter of the late Alfred Lynn and Donia A Cockram Jordan. She was married on March 31, 1945 to Howard Boyd Harley, who preceded her in death on January 25, 1995.

Mrs. Harley was a 1938 graduate of Rockland High School. She worked briefly as a telephone operator at Rockland Telephone Company and as an Aide at Polk State School, but she spent most of her life as a homemaker raising her children and in later years taking care of her parents. Virginia was an active member of Rockland United Methodist Church. She was a member of the United Methodist Women, and memorized and recited poetry at various church functions. Virginia lived on the family homestead since 1922, where she raised and sold chickens. She enjoyed music, flowers, gardening, canning, reading, watching wildlife, and word search puzzles. Her greatest joys in life were her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. It was always her pleasure and joy to attend special events in which her family members participated – the most recent event being the Baptism of her youngest great-grandchild on June 30.

Virginia is survived by her 4 daughters, Dorothy Smith of Knox, Sharon Nesta and her husband, Fran, of Knox, Beth Lesniak and her husband, Shane, of Knox, and Christine Anderson and her husband, Dan, of Bemus Point, NY.

She is also survived by her grandchildren, Shelly Kinney and her husband, Michael, of Columbus, Ohio, Melinda Smith-Yeargin and her husband, Rocco, of Uniontown, Ohio, Jamison Nesta and his wife, Meghan, of Eagleville, PA, Jonathan Nesta of Nashville, Tennessee, Kyle Nesta of Philadelphia, PA, Kristan Nesta, currently living in Japan, Joshua Lesniak and his wife, Chellsi, of Strattanville, Chad Lesniak and his fiancee’, Heather Nicholson, of Knox, and Nicholas Anderson and Nicolette Anderson, both of Bemus Point, New York; her great-grandchildren, Lauren Kinney, Sarah Kinney, Isabella Yeargin, Boyd Nesta, Sutherland Nesta, and Pacen Lesniak; and her two step great-grandchildren, Schuyler Yeargin and Caitlin Yeargin.

Virginia additionally is survived by her niece, Shirley Jordan Bahr of Linesville, whom she raised; her sister-in-law, Betty Harley of Rockland; her part-time caregiver and friend, Jane McCreary, of Rockland; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents and husband, Virginia was preceded in death by her 2 sisters, Nannie Jean Hendershot and Pearl Jordan; and her brother, Clair A. Jordan.

Family and friends of Virginia will be received at the Gardinier Funeral Home, Inc., 1315 Chestnut Street, Franklin PA on Sunday, July 14, from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m., and also on Monday, July 15 from 10 to 11 a.m. at the Rockland United Methodist Church. Funeral Services will be held at the Church following visitation on Monday at 11 a.m., with Rev. Linda Dinger, pastor of the Church, officiating, and Pastor Jamison Nesta (grandson), of Storehouse Church in Plymouth Meeting, PA, co-officiating. Interment will follow at Rockland Cemetery.

The family suggests that memorial contributions be made to Rockland United Methodist Church – 4357 Kennerdell Road, Kennerdell, PA 16374; and or Venango County Youth for Christ – 107 Bredinsburg Road, Seneca, PA 16346.

To send flowers, cards, online condolences, or for further information, family and friends are invited to visit www.gardinierfuneralhome.com
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Robert W. Hartz, age 76 of Lewiston, died Tuesday July 9, 2013 in Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester, NY after a brief illness.

Robert was born June 19, 1937 in Oil City, PA, the son of the late Robert C. and Geraldine (Carey) Hartz. He was a graduate of Oil City High School where he was an All American Basketball player. Robert received his B.S. Degree from Clarion University in Clarion, PA and his Masters in Education from Buffalo State Teacher’s College. He enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1962 and was stationed in France for over two years. He was honorably discharged in 1965.

Robert was a science teacher in Western New York for 33 years. He began his career in the Sweet Home School District where he taught for three years. For the next 30 years Robert taught in the Wilson School District where he also coached baseball, track, and basketball, retiring in 1999.

An accomplished musician, he had a band, “Bob Hartz & The Pacemakers” for 25 years. Robert also was active in many organizations, He was past Master of the Charlotteville Lodge #73 F&AM in Newfane; a member of the Elks Club in Lockport, the Lewiston Lions Club, the American Legion, Eagles Club, and the Polaski Club all in Oil City, PA; as well as the Shriners in Ft. Myers, Florida where he spent half the year. Robert was a 10 year member of the All Faiths Unitarian Congregation in Ft. Myers and also played drums in its resident band. Robert was also a great lover of animals, a life member of the Musicians Union, an avid golfer, and an extreme fan of the Pittsburgh Steelers.

He is survived by his companion of 11 years, Carol Sommer and her daughter, Michele Ninacs; his children, Robert P. Hartz of Wilson, James D. (Amy) Hartz of Kenmore, NY, Michael C. Hartz of Buffalo, NY, Elizabeth Hartz of Tonawanda, and Bryan Hartz of New Paltz, NY; and his grandchildren, Emma, Joshua, and William.

Friends may call at HARDISON FUNERAL HOME, N. Fourth & Ridge Streets, Lewiston on Monday, July 15, from 4 – 8 pm. A Masonic Service will be held in the funeral home at 7:45 pm followed by Military Honors. Burial will be private in the Grove Hill Cemetery, Oil City, PA .In lieu of flowers, Memorials may be made to the Lewiston Jazz Festival, P.O. Box 663, Lewiston, NY 14092 or to the Niagara County SPCA, 2100 Lockport Rd., Niagara Falls, NY 14304.

Paula Renee (Walker) Ripple, 44, of Oak Ridge, died on Wednesday evening, July 10, 2013.

Alcorn Funeral Home in Hawthorn is handling arrangements.

A complete obituary will be published soon.

Nancy L. Dashner, 69, formerly of Towne Towers, died at 7:45 pm, Saturday, July 13, 2013, at the Golden Living Center, Oil City.

Born March 8, 1944 in Oil City, she was a daughter of the late Floyd Taft, Sr. and Jessie Moore Taft.

Nancy had been a housekeeper.

She is survived by six children, Julie Solinger, Edward Dashner, Jr., Connie Goodman, Alvie Dashner, Julia Dashner and John Dashner; 11 grandchildren; and one great grandson.

Also surviving are a brother, John Taft; a sister, Dorothy Swires; numerous nieces and nephews; and a special friend, James Pascorell.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a son, Richard Allen Dashner; a brother, Floyd Taft Jr.; a sister, Carol Gray; and a great grandson.

Friends may call at the Morrison Funeral Home on Wednesday from 11 am to 1 pm.

Funeral services will be held in the funeral home at 1 pm with the Rev. Pete Knight, officiating.

Interment will be in Sunset Hill Memorial Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to a charity of one’s choice.

Please visit the Tribute Wall at www.morrisonhome.com to share a memory or leave a condolence.

John E. (Jack) Strus, 62, of 204 Sycamore St. Oil City, Pa., died unexpectedly Friday July 12, 2013, at his home.

Born July 6, 1951, in Oil City, PA., he was the son of the late Andrew & Beulah Dunkle Strus.

Jack was a graduate of Oil City High School.

He had worked had Foster Forbes Glass Plant in Oil City and had worked in Florida for a short time.

He enjoyed taking walks and watching the Pittsburgh Pirates.

Survivors include his four children: Karen S. Warsing and her husband Brett of Butler, Pa.; Mark A. Strus of Rimersburg, Pa.; Shelly R. Allen and her husband Scott of New Cumberland, WV; and Jennifer L. Strus and her husband Joe English of Venus.

Also surviving are seven grandchildren: Landen, Cade, Audra, Lilly, Garrett, Brandon, and Aaron; his former spouse and the mother of his children, Molly Strus; a brother Dean Strus; and several nieces and nephews.

Their will be no viewing or visitation.

Private Funeral Services will take place at the convenience of the family.

The Reinsel Funeral Home & Crematory is in charge of the arrangements.

Condolences may be sent at www.reinselfuneralhome.com.

Neva Emmaline LaVan, 84 of New Bethlehem, went to be with her Lord and Savior on Saturday morning, July 13 at Golden Living Center in Clarion.

She was born on March 11, 1929 in Porter Township, Jefferson County and daughter of James and Margaret (Copenhaver) Schrecengost.

She married Alvin F. LaVan on October 12, 1951 and he preceded her in death on December 14, 1993.

Neva attended the Cornerstone Church of God in Fairmount City. Church and her church family were an important part of her life. She worked for Rola Jensen in Hawthorn, a hospital supply in Shippenville and was a caretaker for the elderly.

She is survived by a sister, Connie Henry and her husband Larry of Corry and many family and friends.

In addition to her husband, Alvin, she was preceded in death by both parents, a step daughter and her husband, Lois and Lowell Kendell, and four brothers: Clarence Schrecengost, Daniel Schrecengost, James Schrecengost, II, and Gilbert Burr.

She is also preceded in death by seven sisters: Vesta Fiscus, Amy Vanderbuilt, Shirley Murphy, Mildred Kunselman, Mary Shirey, Ruthie Schrecengost, and Twila Orr.

Visitation will be on Monday, July 15 from 3 – 7 at the Cornerstone Church of God in Fairmount City.

The funeral service will follow at 7:00 pm with Pastor Mike Hicks officiating.

Interment will be in the Oakland Cemetery in Distant.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorial donations may be made to the Cornerstone Church of God at 134 Pine St. Fairmount City, Pa. 16224.

The Alcorn Funeral Home in Hawthorn is handling the arrangements.

Paula Renee (Walker) Ripple, 44 of Oak Ridge died suddenly on Wednesday evening, July 10.

She was born on June 11, 1969, in Brookville and daughter of James L. “Jim” and Judy D. (Burford) Walker.

On June 11, 1988, she married John M. Ripple.

Paula enjoyed playing Bingo. She loved her dogs and her nieces and nephews.

She is survived by her husband, John Ripple of Fairmount City, a son, Shelby Ripple and his wife Alisha of Sharpsville, her parents, Jim and Judy Walker of Oak Ridge, a sister, Shawna Walker Davis and her husband Michael of New Bethlehem, a brother Jimmy S. Walker and his wife Jannette of South Bethlehem, numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, and nephews.

She was preceded in death by a son, Joshua M. Walker, maternal grandparents, Bill and Ruth Burford, and paternal grandparents, Rev. Paul and Rev. Hazel Walker.

Visitation will be on Sunday, July 14 from 2 – 4 and 6 – 9 at the Oakland Church of God in Distant.

The funeral service will held on Monday at the church at 1:00 pm with Pastor Jimmy Swogger officiating.

Interment will be in the Mt. Zion Cemetery, Mahoning Township, Armstrong County.

The Alcorn Funeral Home in Hawthorn is handling the arrangements.

David Crate, 39, of Corsica, died on Friday, July 12, 2013 as a result of an ATV accident in Clarion Township.

A complete obituary is not available at this time.