Ms. Caryl “Lorraine” Reed, age 86, of Summerville SC, formerly of Oil City, entered into eternal rest on Friday, December 20, 2013.

A complete obituary is not available at the time.

John H. Smith, 66, of 16959 Jerusalem Corners Road, Pleasantville, died peacefully, at his home, on Tuesday, Dec. 24, 2013.

He was born on Oct. 10, 1947, to the late Hilary and Bernenice Wyant Smith, in Ridgway.

John was a graduate of Elk County Christian High School, Class of 1965.

He attended Gannon University, where he graduated with a B.S. in accounting.

John was a veteran of the U.S. Army, having served in Germany during the Vietnam War.

John moved to Pleasantville, in 1971, where he worked for GTE/Sylvania, in Titusville and Warren, for 10 years.

He joined Liberty Electronics, in Franklin, as one of the first employees. John was instrumental in the growth and success of the company, where he worked in various accounting and management positions of increasing responsibility. He was a member of the board of directors until his time of death.

Even though John had a full-time business career, he enjoyed working on his farm, where he raised beef cattle. He grew and processed all feed for his animals, and provided oats, corn, silage and grain to neighbors. His reputation for quality and fairness was far-reaching.

John’s love of animals was evidenced by the care he provided to them, even individually naming every cow born on his farm.

His love for his collie dogs was immeasurable — Buddy and Ike are his remaining pets.

He was an active member of the Catholic Community of Titusville.

John is survived by four siblings: a brother, William, and wife Sarah (Fisher) Smith, of St. Marys; three sisters, Donna Herzing and husband, James, of St. Marys, Marilyn Mitcheltree and husband, Dennis, of Ridgway, and Catherine Ginivisian and husband, Peter, of Chelmsford, Mass.; numerous nieces, nephews and his many friends.

A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated on Friday, at 11 a.m., at St. Walburga’s Church, 120 Brook St., Titusville, with Fr. Walter E. Packard, pastor of the Catholic Community of Titusville, as celebrant.

Private interment services will be held at St. Leo’s Cemetery, in Ridgway.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Venango County Humane Society, 744 Liberty St., Franklin, Pa., 16323; Hospice of Crawford County Inc., 301 N. Monroe St., Titusville, Pa., 16354.

If you wish to leave a condolence for the family, go to Garrett Funeral Home

Helen M Dudzic, 80, of Oil City, PA. died at 12:45 A.M. Dec 26, 2013 after a brief illness.

Born Jan. 14, 1933 in Oil City, PA., she was the daughter of the late Harold Maxwell & Clara Swanson Moulton.

Helen was a 1951 graduate of Franklin High School.

On Sept. 26, 1953 she was married to Norman Porter, and he preceded her in death on Feb. 20, 1974.

She later married Max S. Dudzic on Nov. 17, 1984 and he preceded her in death on Oct. 25, 2013.

Helen worked briefly at the News Herald and then at Polk Center where she worked as a RSA for 23 years.

She was a member of the Pulaski and PNA Club as well as the Oil City Garden Club.

Helen enjoyed reading, gardening and poetry, and was currently writing the story of her life for her family. She had written several poems that were published by the Keystone Magazine, the magazine of the Garden Club.

She is survived by four children; Norman Porter of Rocky Grove, Willard Porter & his wife Brenda of Haughton, LA, David Porter of Santa Maria, CA, and Mike Porter & his wife Mely of Mechanicsburg, PA. Also surviving are three step children; Max Dudzic & his wife Beth of Oil City, Ann Winger & her husband Mark of Oil City, and Mark Dudzic of Franklin.

She is also survived by eight grandchildren; Catrina Tomsich & her husband John, Felicia Porter, Stefanie Rhynard, Sean Porter, Christina Porter, Samantha Porter, James Porter and Michelle Porter.
Five great grandchildren; Logan Rhynard, Jade Porter, Savanna Steigerwald, Evan Steigerwald and Brianna Porter, twelve step grandchildren; Allie & Eddie Olszowka, Rachael, Abby, Max III and Nathan Dudzic, Matt Healy & his wife McKenzie, Beth Stewart & her husband Dan, Katie Healy, Haley Eckert &her husband Michael, Shelby Winger and Kyle Winger. Helen is also survived by a step-great grandson, Carson Eckert.

She is also survived by two brothers, Harold Maxwell Moulton Jr.& his wife Jean of Newport News, VA, and Joseph Russell “Russ”Moulton & his wife Angie of Seneca.

In addition to her parents, and her husbands, she was preceded in death by her step-father, Willard F. Hopwood; Two sisters, Eileen Ochs and Susan North, Two step-daughters; Paula Healy and Pamela Olszowka, A great grandson, David Terrell Porter, and a step granddaughter Emma Dudzic. Helen also is preceded in death by a special adopted family member Alda Greenewald.

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

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 A.M. Monday in St. Patrick’s Church with Msgr. John Herbein, Pastor, Presiding.

Interment will be in Old Sandy Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, St. Jude and Penn State Hershey Children’s Hospital, Penn State Children’s Hospital

Condolences may be sent at Reinsel Funeral Home

Wayne J. Stahlman, Jr., age 89, of Parker, PA, passed away on Thursday, December 26, 2013 at his daughter’s home.

He was born in Clarion, PA on July 9, 1924, the son of Wayne J. Stahlman, Sr. and Margaret (McIntire) Stahlman.

Wayne was a self-employed farmer for forty years in Conneration and he also worked for Stahlman Plumbing and Heating. He honorably served in the US Navy during World War II and was a lifetime member of the Rimersburg American Legion Post 454 and the VFW Post 7132. Wayne attended the Concord Presbyterian Church in Parker. He was a very talented carpenter who enjoyed woodworking. His family will forever cherish the grandfather clocks, music boxes, and gun cabinets he made for them.

He is survived by his two daughters, Mary Margaret “Peggy” Fair and friend, Joseph Cook of Parker, and Judith A. Huff of Sykesville; five grandchildren; thirteen great-grandchildren; a brother, Stanley Stahlman and wife, Eileen of Brookville; and a sister, Alice Brown of Corsica.

Wayne was preceded in death by his parents; his loving wife of 56 years, Laura Elsie (Smith) Stahlman whom he married May 9, 1946 and who died April 15, 2002; an infant granddaughter, Crystal Huff; two brothers, Carl and Donald Stahlman; and a sister, Dorothy Oakes.

Family and friends will be received from 2-4 and 7-9 PM on Friday, December 27, 2013 at Bauer-Hillis Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 758 Main St., Rimersburg.

Additional visitation will be from 10 AM until the time of funeral services at 11 AM on Saturday, December 28, 2013 at the Concord Presbyterian Church, 2662 Concord Church Road, Parker, PA 16049, with the Pastor Randy Evans officiating. Full military honors will be presented by the Rimersburg VFW Post #7132 and American Legion Post #454 immediately following the service.

Burial will be in Roseville Cemetery, Jefferson County, PA.

Contributions may be made in Wayne’s memory to the Concord Presbyterian Church, 2662 Concord Church Road, Parker, PA 16049, or to the Clarion Forest VNA Hospice, 271 Perkins Road, Clarion, PA 16214.

Paul Edward McKee, Sr. of Clarion, PA was called Home by His Lord to Heaven on December 26, 2013.

He was born in Sligo, PA on June 24, 1922. He was the son of Leslie Rimer McKee and Anna (Graff) McKee. He was married to Evelyn “Dutch” Jane Burns on November 10, 1941. She was the love of his life and preceded him in death on May 6, 2011. They were married 70 years.

Paul was a kind and gentle man that everyone loved. He was a veteran of WWII, serving in the U.S. Navy on an LST ship from 1941-1943. He loved to tell stories about his military days and was proud to have served his country. For many years he owned and operated Clarion Monuments in Clarion, PA. He loved to talk with people about the Lord, and in their younger years he and Dutch loved to square dance and camp in their RV camper, traveling all over the USA.

He was the beloved father of Paul Edward McKee Jr. and wife Doris of Morristown, TN; Bonnie Aaron and husband Mike of Clarion PA; and Janie Chitester and husband John of Beaufort, SC. He and Dutch had 10 grandchildren: Ashley Taylor and husband Jeff, Paul E. McKee III, Ben McKee and wife Heather, Beau McKee and wife Rebecca, Kim Kahle and husband Mark, Steve Aaron and wife Gail, Tamar Kern and husband Nate, Terah Chitester, Tricia Cano and husband Alex, and Jonathan Chitester and 21 great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Leslie and Anna (Graff) McKee, a brother, Leslie McKee Jr., and two sisters, Beulah Switzer and Lois Switzer. He was a caring and giving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather and he will be sorely missed.

A memorial celebration will be held for Paul on January 4, 2014, at 4:00 p.m. at the River Hill Evangelical Congregational Church.

Interment will be in Sligo Grandview Cemetery.

The family suggests memorial contributions be sent to Harvest Alliance International for “Bibles for Africa” at P.O. Box 4550, Oceanside, California 92052 or Clarion-Forest Visiting Nurse Program, 271 Perkins Rd, Clarion, Pa 16214.

Arrangements are under the care of the Goble Funeral Home and Crematory in Clarion. Friends and family may get additional information or send online condolences by visiting the funeral home website at www.goblefh.net.

Edward “Shang” Goheen, of Clarion, passed away at the Golden Living Center in Clarion on December 27, 2013. He was 83 years old.

Born on January 13, 1930, in Clarion, he was the son the late John and Margaret Pence Goheen.

On July 1, 1953, he married the former Shirley Dee McAnich. She preceded him in death on June 27, 1995. He was the father of Larry Edward Goheen who preceded him in death on August 29, 2004, and Daniel Irwin Goheen who preceded him in death on May 27, 1994.

He served his country in the United States Navy during the Korean War from 1948 to 1952. He enjoyed working on and fixing tractors and cars, mowing and going to the McDonald’s on Main Street in Clarion to socialize in the mornings. He retired from Electralloy in 1995.

Mr. Goheen is survived his two daughters-in-law, Deb Goheen of Clarion and Eunice Shreffler of Nickleville; five grandchildren, Marta Adams and husband Nick of Strattanville, Garrett Goheen and wife Monica of Clarion, Deena Love and husband Scott of Corsica, Danielle Goheen of Pittsburgh, and Shannan Goheen of Shippenville; seven great-grandchildren, Austin, Kaydee, Marisa, Curvin, Bracey, Raegan, and Tanner; his brothers, Paul Goheen and wife Dorian of Strattanville, William “Jiggs” Goheen and wife Carol of Seneca, and Keith “Red” Goheen of Strattanville; his sisters, Leona Beers and husband Henry of Strattanville, Donna Beers of Shippenville, and Carol “Sis” Amsler and husband Don of Shippensburg; his brother-in-law, Donald McAnich of Brookville, his sisters-in-law, Mary McAnich of Brookville, Thyra Rhodes and husband Eddie of Brookville, Beverly Pangallo and Jim of Brookville; many nieces and nephews; and a special friend, Dona Smith formerly of Clarion.

Mr. Goheen was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, his sons, Larry and Dan, brother-in-law John Schimp, sister-in-law Roma Goheen, brother-in-law Eddie Beary, sister Helen Bauer, broterh-in-law, Alvin “Spike” Bauer, brother-in-law Lawrence McAnich, and in-laws Albert and Betty McAnich.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Mr. Goheen’s honor to the Cancer Center at Clarion Hospital.

Arrangements are under the care of the Goble Funeral Home & Crematory, 330 Wood Street, Clarion, where friends and family will be received from 2-4 and 7-9 pm on Sunday, December 29. Funeral services will be held at the funeral home at 11:00am on Monday, December 30 with Rev. Randy Evans, Clarion-Forest VNA Hospice Chaplain officiating. Full military honors will be accorded by the Honor Guard of American Legion Post 66 of Clarion at that time. Interment will follow in the Mead Chapel Cemetery in Brookville.

Friends and family can send online condolences, share memories, and obtain additional information by visiting the funeral home website at www.goblefh.net.

Professor Vahé H. Berberian, of Clarion, passed away at his home on December 25, 2013. He was 83 years old.

Born on January 2, 1930, in Athens Greece, he was the son of Hampartzoum and Serpouhi Takvorian Berberian, both of whom have preceded him in death.

On June 17, 1967, he married the former Janet E. Burke, who survives.

Professor Berberian was a professor of music at Clarion University ofPennsylvania for 33 years prior to his retirement. He is holder of the Diploma of Music in Violoncello from the Lebanese Academy of Fine Arts in Beirut, where he was a student of Nicolas Dale. After graduation, Mr. Berberian had pursued musical training at the Benedetto Marcello Conservatory of Music in Venice and the Mozarteums International Summer Academy in Salzburg, followed by two years of private cello studies with Enrico Mainardi in Rome. He was a doctoral candidate in performance at the Indiana University in Bloomington, Indiana where he studied with Fritz Magg. He was on the faculty at the National Conservatory of Music in Beirut and the Lamar State College of Technology in Texas before coming to Clarion. He recorded the Dvorak Concerto with the Athens Broadcasting Symphony Orchestra in Greece. Professor Berberian was an adjudicator of a number of competitions for string instruments, including the Carnegie Awards Festival sponsored by Carnegie-Mellon University.

Upon his retirement, Professor Berberian, launched upon an endeavor to publish the works of his father Hampartzoum Berberian, a renowned Armenian composer.

In addition to his wife, Mr. Berberian is survived by his daughter, Anahid Berberian Temesi and her husband Michael of Chesterland Ohio; two grandchildren, Michael Avedis Temesi and Myles Dirahn Temesi; two brothers, Hratch Berberian of Brookings, South Dakota, and Shahé Berberian of Cambridge, Massachusetts; and his sister, Nayiri Berberian of Watertown, Massachusetts.

Arrangements are under the care of the Goble Funeral Home and Crematory, 330 Wood Street, Clarion, where friends and family will be received from 2-4 pm on Sunday, December 29. Additional visitation will be held at 11:00am on Thursday, January 2, 2014, at St. Gregory of Narek Armenian Church, 678 Richmond Road, Richmond Heights, Ohio, to be followed immediately at 11:30am with funeral services in the church. Father Hratch Sargsyan, pastor of St. Gregory Church will officiate.

Interment will follow in Knollwood Cemetery in Mayfield Heights, Ohio.

Friends and family can send online condolences, share memories, order flowers, and obtain additional information by visiting the funeral home website at www.goblefh.net.

Timothy Eugene Martin, 49, of Clarion, gave up a courageous battle to cancer on Wednesday, January 1, 2014.

He was born on April 20, 1964, in Clarion. He was the son of Norma Clinger Martin of Clarion and Eugene “Pene” and Marsha Martin of Strattanville.

He attended North Clarion School, graduating in 1982.

Tim enjoyed hunting, fishing, and the outdoors. He was a wonderful woodworker in his spare time. He loved being with his family and friends.

He married the former Jerri Beth Magness on September 26, 1996, in Lakeland, Florida; and she survives. They spent 24 years happily
together.

Tim was a truck driver and mechanic his whole life, lastly working for Arsenberger Trucking.

He attended the Grace Lutheran Church of Clarion.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his children, Kimberly Ann Smith and her husband, Mike, of New Bethlehem, Kenneth Earl Martin and his wife, Monica, of Clarion, and Christopher S. Magness of Clarion. His grandchildren are Gabrella “Gabby” Smith and Alexandria Lewis of New Bethlehem and Landon Martin of Clarion.

Also surviving are four brothers and their wives, Scott Martin (Chris) of Strattanville, Albert Martin of Clintonville, Greg Martin (Terrie) of Leeper, and Robert Martin of Strattanville; a dear friend, Gail Kline of Fryburg; and numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Albert and Thelma Martin; maternal grandparents, Paul and Alice Clinger, and a nephew, John Robert Eugene Martin.

At Tim’s request, there will be no viewing or services.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Robert V. Burns Funeral Home, 638 Wood Street, Clarion.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials and donations be made to The Clarion Center, One Doctors Drive, Clarion PA 16214, or to the Clarion Forest VNA, 271 Perkins Road, Clarion PA 16214.

Online condolences can be sent to the family by visiting www.rvburnsfuneralhome.com.

Jere Joseph Toven, 72, of Brookville, beloved husband, father, grandfather, uncle and friend passed to eternal life peacefully at McKinley Health Center, Brookville, Pa. after a strong fought battle against leukemia, surrounded by his loving family on Wednesday, January 1st, 2014.

Jere was born on July 15th, 1941, in Reynoldsville Pennsylvania.

He was a 1959 graduate of Reynoldsville High School.

He is survived by; his wife Joyce (Knapp) Toven of 51 years. They were married on October 27th, 1962 in Mayport Pennsylvania.

He is also survived by his son Paul Toven (Brenda) of Summerville Pa, and his daughter Roxanne Hetrick (Philip) of Brookville Pa.

His surviving grandchildren are; Andy Toven, Vanessa Yard, Cameron Yard, Hanna Toven, and Isaac Hetrick. His surviving step-grandchildren include; Ian Hetrick, Amber Allshouse, Andrew Crissman, Heather Crissman, and Brooke Hetrick. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Jere retired from OI/Rexam July 1st, 2013. He was employed there for 30 years.

Jere enjoyed watching his grandchildren play sports, watching and attending the Pirates, Penguins, Steelers, and Pittsburgh Power. He also enjoyed spending his summer family vacations at North Carolina Beaches.

He was predeceased by his father and mother; Angelo Toven and Grace (Pomroy) Toven and his brother Ronald Toven. He was also predeceased by his beloved pets; Buttons, Bows, Muff, Twoie, Callie, and Taffy.

Visitation will be at the McKinney Funeral Home at 345 Main Street, Brookville, PA, on Saturday, January 4th from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.

The funeral will be held on Sunday, January 5th at 1 p.m. also at McKinney Funeral Home, with Rodney Martz officiating.

Memorials may be made to the Leukemia Foundation, in care of: The Clarion Cancer Center – One Hospital Drive, Clarion, Pa. 16214 and the Bar-None Cowboy Church – 1963 Richardsville Rd., Brookville, Pa. 15825.

Memorial Donation cards will be available at the funeral home.

Please remember to donate blood to your local blood bank to help others who are fighting against Leukemia.

Zachary S. Hartzell, 31, of Oil City, Pinegrove Township, died at 3:10 p.m. Wednesday, January 1, 2014 at his residence surrounded by loving family and friends.

Born July 10, 1982 in Oil City, he was a son of Alan S. and Pamela (Shirey) Hartzell.

He attended Cranberry High School and graduated from the Erie County Homeschooler’s Association.

He was of the protestant faith.

Zach enjoyed the outdoors, working on vehicles, attending car shows, and four-wheeling. He also cherished time spent with his family and friends.

Mr. Hartzell was employed by the family business, Hartzell Water Conditioning, handling sales, service, and installation. He was active with the business from 1997 until 2010.

He was married in Shippenville on August 26, 2006 to the former Kara C. Bowen, who survives.

Also surviving are three children, Tytus, Kaylee, and Zayden, all at home; his parents, Alan and Pamela Hartzell of Seneca; his siblings, Andrea McCauley and husband Michael and their children, Jacob, Maria, and Micah, all of Oil City, Travis Hartzell of Venus, Ashleigh Eakin and husband Brian of Seneca, and Josiah Hartzell of Seneca; his grandmother, Marian Hartzell and her husband Carl Aaron of Tionesta; aunts and uncles: Steve Hartzell and wife Tracey, Rhonda Brooks and husband Dennis, Patty Switzer and husband Chris, Dan Shirey and wife Kim, and Karl “Buddy” Shirey; and his father-in-law and mother-in-law, John W. “Bunk” Bowen III and his wife Edna, of Seneca. Numerous cousins also survive.

He was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Alan and Shirley Shirey; his paternal grandfather, David Hartzell; two uncles, Kevin and Wayne Hartzell; and a cousin, Kyle Hartzell.

Friends will be received Friday (Jan. 3) from 4-6 p.m. and on Saturday (Jan. 4) from 1-3 and 6-8 p.m. in Hile-Best Funeral Home, Inc., 2781 Rte. 257 in Seneca, Cranberry Township. A funeral service for family and close friends will be held in the funeral home Sunday (Jan. 5) at 1 p.m. with the Rev. Richard Kightlinger, pastor of Venus United Evangelical Church, officiating.

Interment will follow in Venus Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Hartzell Children Benefit Fund, c/o First United National Bank, PO Box 266, Cranberry PA 16319.

Condolences may be expressed to the family online by visiting www.hilebest.com.

James Junior Sample – 91, passed away January 2, 2014 at his home in Porter Twp with his family beside him. Born September 19, 1922, on the old Sample homestead located along the Olean Trail in Porter Township, New Bethlehem, Pa. He was the son of James Marion Sample and Margaret Ruby Bowersox Sample.

Jimmy was preceded in death by his wife Martha Irene Emhoff Sample, a baby son Donnie Lee, a grandson Frederick William Loncharich, Jr and great granddaughter Scarlett Rayne Sample.
Surviving relatives included one sister Bernice Theone Sample York of Tampa, FL, two sons- James Vernon Sample and wife Mary of Sewickley, PA, and Gary DeWayne Sample and wife Dorothy of Cochranton, PA, two daughters- Jean Sample Gilmore of Ligonier, PA, and Jane Sample Pappler of Southampton, NJ, 9 grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren and 1 great great grandson.

Mr Sample attended the Jack’s School in Leatherwood. Besides being a full time Dairy Farmer and milking cows daily, Jimmy had numerous other jobs that he worked at over the years to help support his family. His first job was working for local farmers for 50 cents a day. Then he knapped stone for the Pa. Highway Department when they built the Starburg Road that ran from Reidsburg to the New Bethlehem Borough Line. Next was the Erie Continental Rubber Works, driving truck a coal for Isemen Coal Co and many years working for the White Fire Equipment Company of Cottage Hill. Next was working for the Porter Township Supervisor, then the PA Department of Highways in Clarion for 10 years. He was then hired as a security guard at the Clarion Hospital Supply Company followed by being a dispatcher for the 911 Emergency Center of Clarion County at its inception. He was hired as Superintendent of the Water and Sewage Plant for Rimersburg Boro after which he was a night janitor at Clarion State College.

Jim served his country in the U.S. Army during WWII in the European Theater. After being discharged he attended 2 years of GI School getting a Pennsylvania State College Diploma in Agriculture.

Mr Sample enjoyed Coon and Deer Hunting, collecting firearms and exhibiting them at Gun Shows, flea markets. He participated in numerous Parades and weddings with his teams of ponies and mules. On Sept. 3, 1983, the Fort Armstrong Horsemen’s Association honored Jimmy by inducting him into their Horsemen’s Hall of Fame. He was honored as a person who had special qualities used within all phases of the horse industry. Jim was an avid member of the Leatherwood Anti-Horse Thief Association.

Jim will long be remembered for his love of animals, his quick wit and his “almost believable” stories!

Viewing Friday, January 3, 2014 at Goble Funeral Home and Crematory in Clarion 3p-8pm. Viewing on Saturday January 4, 10-11am at the White Chapel Church, Climax Rd, New Bethlehem, with an 11am Funeral Service to follow, officiated by Rev Ben Shindledecker. Jim will be given full Military Honors by the Walter Craig Post 354 of New Bethlehem. Interment will be at the Leatherwood Cemetery. The family requests no flowers but instead you may make a donation, in his name, to the St Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.goblefh.net.

Gwendolyn W. Hovis, 74, of 1860 Chapel Hills Drive, Colorado Springs, CO 80920 died unexpectedly at 8:30 AM Tuesday, December 24, in the year of our Lord 2013 at Penrose Hospital. 
Born August 29, 1939 in Philadelphia, PA Gwen was the daughter of Alexander G. and Ada B. Walker. Gwen’s family moved to Oil City, PA in 1943 where she graduated from Oil City High School in 1957. Gwen met her beloved husband James at the Oil City swimming pool and soon after they were united in holy matrimony at Trinity United Methodist Church on November 29, 1957. Through all the adversity they endured during their time together here on earth, they never once left each other’s side for 56 glorious years.

Gwen began her working career at the Oil City Telephone Company before becoming a full time wife and mother to her two children, Julie and David. In 1969 she resumed working for the YWCA as Executive Secretary, then Health Club Instructor, and finally as Executive Director where she served for 13 years and provided excellent leadership during very challenging times.

After retiring from the YWCA, Gwen relocated to Colorado Springs, CO where she continued to work part time for the Olympic sport, USA Field Hockey, as well as volunteering with the Colorado Springs Assistance League. Gwen was an active member in Second Presbyterian Church, United Way, Literacy Council of Venango County, Belles Lettres Club, Oil City/Franklin Zonta Club, and several bridge clubs where she developed many great friendships with people she loved very much. She was an avid reader and seamstress, enjoyed knitting and crocheting, but especially loved camping trips and traveling with her family.

During the last 12 years of her life she and her husband Jim often traveled back to PA in order to help their son David recover from a tragic accident that left him confined to a wheelchair and take care of their beloved granddaughter, Sarah.

An intimate funeral service was held at 10:00 AM, December 26, 2013 at the MountainView Mortuary in Colorado Springs with only her family at her side.

She is survived by her husband, James E. Hovis Jr., daughter Julie Dale and son-in-law Warren Dale, all of Colorado Springs, CO, son J. David Hovis of Coatesville, PA, two very special grandchildren Sarah Elizabeth Hovis of Coatesville, PA and David James Thomeier of Colorado Springs, CO, and one great granddaughter Brooklyn Sara Thomeier of Colorado Springs who became the wind in Gwen’s sails and brought immense joy to her life during her final days. Also surviving is her very special sister, Rena Henderson McLaughlin, of Pittsburgh, PA along with many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends across the globe that are too numerous to mention but that she loved very much.

A memorial portrait of Gwen and a plaque will be donated to the YWCA of Oil City, PA by her family.

In lieu of flowers it was Gwen’s wish to have memorials sent in her name to benefit the YWCA, 109 Central Avenue, Oil City, PA 16301. Her husband Jim will always thank God for the day he met her and she will be sorely missed by her family. – See more at: legacy.com.

Ryan Heath, 48, of Oil City, died on December 29, 2013.

A complete obituary has not been released.

Ray L. Brenoel, 87, of Cochranton, died Thursday, December 19, 2013 at his residence.

Born, August 1, 1926 in Meadville, he was the son of Ralph and Celestine Emig Brenoel. He married Dorothy (Dot) Smith on December 31, 1949 and she survives.

Ray attended St. Agatha’s School until 11th grade when he enlisted in the US Navy on July 24, 1944 and served until June 7, 1946. Coming back from the war he returned to school at the former Meadville VoTech and graduated with the 1947 class. He continued his education at Orra Jean Barber School in Erie and also Michael’s Beauty Academy in Meadville.

Ray began cutting hair in Cochranton in 1956 and retired in 2006. He also owned and operated Ray’s Gun Shop beginning in 1962.

He was a member of Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church in Cochranton, a charter member of the Cochranton Lions Club and Community Park. He also belonged to the Cochranton American Legion Post #836, the Meadville Moose, Meadville Elks, Cochranton Fire Department Station #4 and the Cochranton Sportsmen’s Club.

His hobbies included hunting, fishing, golfing and anyone who liked to carry on a conversation. He also took great pride in watching his grandchildren and great grandchildren grow.

Survivors in addition to his wife of 63 years, include a son Michael Brenoel and his wife Gaylynn of Michigan, a daughter Kathleen DeVoge and her husband Michael Snyder of Barbousville, West Virginia, a daughter Rebecca Niklas and her husband Michael of Ellicottville, New York and a son Bill Brenoel of Conneaut Lake. Seven grandchildren, Joseph (Chip) DeVoge, Kristine DeVoge, Dr. Sara Niklas, Katie Priest, Jaben Brenoel, Abbi Brenoel, and Chandra Brenoel. Eight great grandchildren and a sister Mary Lou Davies of Simi Valley, California..

He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother Paul Brenoel and a sister Geraldine Wyant.

Friends will be received at the Dickson Family Funeral Home, Inc., 123 S. Franklin St. Cochranton on Sunday from 2-4 and 6-8. Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:00am Monday at Our Lady of Lourdes Church in Cochranton with the Rev. Daniel Prez and the Rev. Dennis Veltri, Co-Celebrants.

Interment will be in the Cochranton Cemetery.

Russell Wayne Baker, 94, of Canal Township, died Thursday, January 2, 2014 at his residence following a lengthy illness.

Born, March 18, 1919 in Franklin , he was the son of Cecil and Margaret Reese Baker. He married Dermalyn Cotterman on October 2, 1948 and she preceded him in death on October 9, 1997.

He was a corporal with the US Army during World War II having served with the 445th Anti Aircraft Battalion, and received the European and African Campaign Medal as well as Good Conduct and WWII Victory Medal.

Returning from the war he worked as a lumberman with his family and also farmed raising cattle, horses and trained ponies. He also owned and drove school buses and enjoyed woodworking with his wife.

He was a member of the Utica Volunteer Fire Department and also worked for Canal Township and served as the Township Supervisor.

Survivors include a son Russell L. (Butch) Baker of Franklin and a daughter Kay Bell and her husband Larry of Cochranton. Four grandchildren, Rusty Baker and his wife Tami of Cochranton, Scott Baker and his companion Louise Plummer of Utica, Nicole Bell and friend Ryan Chmura of Hermitage and Traci Neely and her husband Brian of Utica. Two great grandchildren, Austin Plummer and Derek Baker a brother, Curtis Baker and his wife Marilyn of Cochranton, a daughter in law Andy Baker, and several nieces and nephews..

In addition to his wife and parents, he was preceded in death by a brother Lawrence and his wife Peg, a sister Audrey Turner and her husband Grover and an infant sister Rollajolene and an infant brother Kenneth.

The family wish to extend a special thank you to Russell’s caregivers, Tom Cramer, Brenda and Sheena Goodman, Dana Foster, Chris Keith and Pat Bell.

Friends will be received at the Dickson Family Funeral Home Inc., 123 S. Franklin St. on Saturday from noon until time of the funeral service at 2:00pm with the Rev. Harrietta Serrins and Rev. Wayne Rapp, coofficiating.

Interment will be in Peters Cemetery, Canal Township, Venango County.

The family ask that memorials be made to the Utica Volunteer Fire Department, Box 83, Utica PA 16362 or Lupher Chapel United Methodist Church, Old Rte 322, Franklin.

Linda Kay Wolbert, 71, of Shippenville, went to be with the Lord on Friday morning, January 3, 2014, at her home surrounded by her family following a courageous battle with cancer.

Linda was born on December 17, 1942 in Kane, to the late Virgil and Ernestine Hallberg.

She was the beloved wife of Francis J. Wolbert Sr., with whom she was married to for fifty-one years.

Linda retired from the Marienville Pharmacy. She enjoyed reading, spending time with her family, and shopping with her granddaughters.

She was of the Catholic faith.

In addition to her husband, she is survived by one daughter, Marcy Lambert and her fiancé, Bret Montana, of Strattanville; four sons, Frank Jr. and his wife, Nancy, of Strattanville, Vergil and his wife, Kathy, of Shippenville, Doug and his wife, Shayla, of Crown, Scott and his wife, Stephanie, of Shippenville; thirteen grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.

Also surviving are five brothers, Harold, Virgil “Orv”, and Rick Hallberg, all of Kane, Melvin Hallberg of San Antonio, Texas, and Dennis “Pete” Hallberg of Rock Springs, Wyoming.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

The family will receive friends from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. on Monday, January 6, 2014, at the Robert V. Burns Funeral Home, 638 Wood Street, Clarion.

Funeral services and interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to the Cancer Center at Clarion Hospital, at 150 Doctors Lane, Clarion PA 16214.

Online condolences can be sent to the family by visiting www.rvburnsfuneralhome.com.

Betty L. Haines, 77, of Asbury Road Corsica went to her eternal home on January 2, 2014, from UPMC Presbyterian Hospital in Pittsburgh.

She was born on August 4, 1936 in Clarion; the daughter of Raymond and Twila Davis Fink.

She was a 1954 graduate of Clarion-Limestone High School. Betty married her beloved husband, Kenneth D. Haines, on March 23, 1957. They had been married over 56 years.

Betty had been employed at Owens-Illinois and Jamesway in Clarion and worked a number of years in the meat department at Riverside market. She faithfully drove Clarion-Limestone students to school on “Bus 15” for 17 1/2 years. She enjoyed volunteering at the Clarion Hospital. She was a member of the Asbury United Methodist Church where she had served as a communion steward.

Betty took great pride in having an immaculate house and was a wonderful cook. She took great care in maintaining a beautifully manicured lawn and flowerbeds. She and Ken enjoyed following their grandchildren’s activities, family gatherings, and traveling.

She is survived by her husband; three children, Tracey (David) Beers, Kevin (Teresa) Haines, both of Corsica, and Rhonda (Daniel) Wright of Overland Park, Kansas; and six grandchildren, Ryan and Tyler Beers, Kyle and Drew Haines, and Austin and Evan Wright.

Also surviving are a sister, Jean McCleary of Worthington, three brothers, William (Twila) Fink of Clarion, Don (Roberta) Fink of Rimersburg, Robert (Shirley) Fink of Butler, and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; three brothers, Ken Ransom, Dale Ransom, and Gary Fink; and a granddaughter, Emily L. Beers,

Friends will be received 1 to 3 p.m. on Sunday, January 5, 2014, at the Asbury United Methodist Church in Strattanville.

Funeral services will be held at 3 p.m. on Sunday, January 5, 2014, in the church with Nancy Zahn, pastor of the Strattanville United Methodist Charge, presiding.

Interment will be at the Asbury Cemetery.

Memorials may be made in Betty’s memory to the Asbury United Methodist Memorial Fund, c/o
Linda Heasley, 4346 C-L School Road, Strattanville PA 16258.

Online condolences can be sent the family by visiting www.rvburnsfuneralhome.com.

Robert J. Shoup, Upper Yoder Township, died January 4. Born November 7, 1915 in Clarion County.

Preceded in death by parents Earl and Ruth Shoup, brother Clifford, and brother Tim. Survived by wife Mary (Conrad), brother Leon of Ellwood City, and special nephew Karl Sr. of New Castle. Enlisted in the U.S. Army at age 18 and served in the European Theatre of Operations World War II, receiving two bronze stars and the Meritorious Service Medal. Retired as Chief Warrant Officer Grade 4.

Bob served on the Westmont Hilltop School Board, and was elected President of Chapter #14 of the Reserve Officers Association (ROA), receiving the Minute Man Award.

He served on the Upper Yoder Sewer Authority.

He was a 60-year member of the United Commercial Travelers of America, Member of Free and Accepted Masons #538, Tall Cedars of Lebanon #127, Jaffa Temple Altoona, American Legion Post #294, ROA and Military Officers Organization Association.

He was a member of Westmont Church of the Brethren. Bob was a skilled industrial sewing machine mechanic for sewing machines and Saxmayer tying machines, servicing equipment throughout the United States.

Service will be held at Picking Treece Bennett Mortuary, West Hills on Wednesday, January 8 at 1pm, with viewing from 11am to 1pm. In lieu of flowers, please make a memorial contribution to your favorite charity.

Theodore W. “Tedd” Ochs, 72, of Lucinda, passed away on Friday, January 3, 2014, at his home after a two year battle with cancer.

Born September 3, 1914 in Brookville; he was the son of Regis W. and Edythe Schmader Ochs.

Tedd was married on July 29, 1967 to the former Janet Friedrich in Warren; and she survives.

He graduated from Dubois Business College and Clarion State Teachers College.

Tedd taught school in Warren and Oil City. He was also part owner of Ochs Forestry Consulting and Ochs Lumber Company. He was one of the original founders of Pet Adoption and Welfare Society, commonly known as Clarions PAWS. While teaching in Oil City, he was a member of the Adelphoi Club.

He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and farming. He also volunteers with Best Friends Animal Sanctuary during hurricane Katrina animal rescue effort.

Tedd is survived by his wife, Janet; a son, Matthew R. Ochs and his wife, Cheri, of Lucinda; a daughter, Suzanne M. Ochs-Fisher and her husband, Robert H. Fisher of Eads, Tennessee; five grandchildren, Hannah Fisher, Hugh Fisher, Dan Eberts and his wife, Tanya, Jessica Eberts, and Ashley Best Aikens and her husband, Greg; and two great grandchildren, Keira Best and Brady Eberts.

Also surviving are a brother, Regis “Rick” Ochs and his wife, Patricia, of Lucinda; a sister, Aleta Nichols and her husband, Jerry, of Missouri; brothers-in-law, Mark Friedrich of Clarion and John “Jack” Friedrich and his wife, Lisa, of Washington, PA; and numerous nieces and nephews and their children; and special family friends, Janice Fuellhart of Crown and her son, Jake Fuellhart, of Mount Lebanon.

He was preceded in death by his parents, who died November 21, 1967, in an airplane crash; his in-laws, John and Margaret Friedrich; and a grandson, Ryan Powell.

Family will receive friends from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, January 7, 2014, at the Robert V. Burns Funeral Home, 638 Wood Street, Clarion.

Christian wake service will be held at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, January 7, 2014, in the funeral home.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, January 8, 2014, at the Immaculate Conception Church, Clarion, with Rev. Monty Sayers, pastor of the Immaculate Conception Church, presiding.

Interment will be held at the St. Joseph Church Cemetery in Lucinda.

In lieu of flowers, Tedd asked that memorial contributions be made to Clarion PAWS, PO Box 804, Clarion PA 16214, or Charitable Deeds, 98 Hickory Nut Lane, Knox PA 16232.

Online condolences can be sent to the family by visiting www.rvburnsfuneralhome.com.

Pvt. Jonah Benjamin Sovik, 19, died suddenly in a tragic incident at home at 21:07 hours on January 3, 2014.

He was born April 13, 1994, at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, was the son of Anjanette Michelle and Marc Steven Sovik. He was later raised by a step-father, Eric Walter Keller.

A resident of Porter Township, Clarion County, Pvt. Sovik was currently stationed at Ft. Benning, Georgia, as a member of the 194th Armored Brigade, serving with the G Troop, 3rd Platoon of the Cavalry Scouts, a reconnaissance division of the U.S. Army which serves as the eyes and ears of the commander during battle.

He attended Wee Care Day Care in New Bethlehem and New Bethlehem Elementary School. He was a member of the 2013 graduating class of Redbank Valley High School in New Bethlehem.

Pvt. Sovik worked as a maintenance assistance with New Bethlehem Borough for a short time before joining the military.

He attended Zion Baptist Church in Reidsburg, where he was baptized, and Hawthorn Church of the Nazarene during his childhood and teenage years and was active in the children and youth groups. More recently, he partnered with the ministries of Leatherwood Chuch in Porter Township and First Church God along Bryan Lane in New Bethlehem. Attending the Redbank-Valley community-sponsored “Snow Camp” event in New York made a tremendous spiritual impact on his life and future ambitions.

Several years ago, Pvt. Sovik and his older brother, Nolan, accompanied a ministry outreach team to Costa Rica and often spoke of the satisfaction it brought him in helping less-fortunate people.

He was a man with a truly unselfish heart and had an uncanny calling to always support the “underdog” in any situation. Thus, he was an avid and outspoken fan of The Cleveland Browns.

Pvt. Sovik was an active athlete and participated in The United Valley Soccer Association from age 5 through age 13. He also played baseball with the New Bethlehem Little League program beginning at age 4 through the transition into school varsity sports. He and his brother Nolan were members of the New Bethlehem Junior League team that competed at the state tournament. He continued his athletic interests in varsity basketball and football and was a multiple letter-winner in the Redbank Valley Varsity Club.

He also very much enjoyed pick-up games of back-yard golf, football and basketball with family and friends.

Pvt. Sovik was an extreme outdoor enthusiast and regularly harvested rabbits, squirrels, game birds, fish and deer and happily shared meals he prepared from his bounty. He had a special interest in catching giant snapping

turtles. He also took great pride in taking his younger brother and sister on outdoor excursions and teaching them gun safety as well as various hunting and fishing techniques.

In addition to his mother, Anjanette Michelle Keller, of Porter Township, Clarion County, his father, Marc Steven Sovik of Grand Rapids, Michigan, and his step-father, Eric Walter Keller of Fairmount City, Pvt. Sovik is survived by a three brothers: Nolan McKinley Sovik, 21, Tristan Josiah Keller, 14, both of New Bethlehem; and Cayden Marck Sovik, 15, of Grand Rapids; and two sisters: Alena Jade Keller, 13, of New Bethlehem, and Kennadee LeeAnne Sovik, 12, of Grand Rapids.

Pvt. Sovik is also survived by his maternal grandparents, Timothy and Peggy Bish of Mayport, his maternal uncle and aunt, Neil and Kristie Bish of Fletcher, N.C., his maternal aunt and uncle, Rebecca and Donald Doverspike of Fairmount City, his maternal great-grandmother, Florence Cook of New Bethlehem, and cousins Alicia Doverspike, Seth Doverspike, Aubrey Bish, Coleman Doverspike and Maggie Bish.

In addition, he is survived by his paternal grandparents, John ‘Jack’ and Marianne Sovik of Bethel Park; paternal uncle and aunt, Christopher and Jill Sovik, three cousins, Hannah Sovik, Callen Sovik and Shane Sovik, all of Brighton, MI; his paternal step-grandmother, Ethel Keller of Fairmount City; and paternal aunt and uncle Holly and Michael Pence of Distant; and three cousins, David Pence, Mackenzie Pence and Landon Pence, all of Distant.

Pvt. Sovik was preceded in death by an infant sibling.

Visitation for family and friends will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, January 7, 2014, at the First Church of God along Bryan Lane off Route 861 in New Bethlehem.

Funeral services are set for 1 p.m. Wednesday at the church.

Graveside services with full military salute will be held following the funeral at Leatherwood Church along Olean Trail in Porter Township.

Interment will be in Leatherwood Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Hawthorn and/or Seminole Rod and Gun clubs to be used for fish stocking or hunter safety training.

Arrangements and online condolences are under the direction of Alcorn Funeral Home in Hawthorn.