Roy “Butch” E. Hines, 66, of Lincoln Street ,Franklin died at 10:17 AM Sunday ,April 13, 2014 at his residence.

Born November 8, 1947 in Franklin, Roy was the son of the late Howard and Helen (Slocum) Hines.

On July 25, 1991 he married Kristy K. Wood, who survives.

Butch proudly served his country in the Army Reserves.

On January 1, 2011 he retired after 42 years from Joy Manufacturing where he had been an electrician.
He enjoyed Pittsburgh Steeler’s football, racing, playing poker at the VFW, and most of all spending time with his family.

In addition to his wife, Kristy , Roy is survived by his sons, David R. Hines of Wyattville and Jason M. Ross of Baden, PA; his daughter, Valerie Wheeling and her husband, Monte, of Cooperstown; his brothers. John Hines and his wife, Nancy, of Cochranton, and Michael Hines and his wife, Cathy, of Ft. Myers, FL; his sisters, Jean Rodgers and her husband, Wayne, of Guys Mills, Joyce Dehner and her husband, Ray, of Oil City, and Donna Riodan and her husband, Blaze, of Meadville.

He is additionally survived by his grandchildren, Jossilyn Ross, David Hines, Julie Hines, Megan Hines, Matthew Wheeling, and Michael Wheeling; his sister-in-laws, Sandy Hoffman and her husband, John, and Barbara McFeaters both of Franklin; and his brother-in-law, Michael Wood and his partner Kevin Wagner of St. Petersburg, FL

Butch was preceded in death by his parents and his sister-in-law, Patricia Platt.

Services for Butch will be private and held at the convenience of the family.

In Roy’s memory, memorial donations may be made to the American Heart Association, PO Box 15120, Chicago, IL, 60693, and/or a charity of one’s choice.

To send online condolences, flowers, cards, or for further information, family and friends are invited to visit www.gardinierfuneralhome.com.

Terry L. “Buck” Shirey, Sr., 65, of Meadow Church Road in Seneca, died Monday afternoon, April 14, 2014 at his home following a lengthy illness.

Born September 6, 1948 in Oil City, he was the son of the late Claude Victor Shirey, Jr. and Beverly J. (Hartman) Shirey Repman.

Terry was a 1964 graduate of Oil City High School. He then enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served from 1964 through 1967 during the Vietnam War. He was stationed on the USS Essex aircraft carrier.

He was a lifetime member of the National Rifle Association.

Mr. Shirey was of the protestant faith.

Buck enjoyed the outdoors, hunting, and camping. He was a talented cook using a dutch oven and a meat smoker. He loved listening to country western music of all eras.

Mr. Shirey was employed as a truck driver for nearly 40 years, and had driven more than 3 million miles throughout his career. He drove for Superior Carriers of Karns City for eighteen years.

He was married in Las Vegas, Nevada on June 3, 1997 to the former Betty L. (Morrison) Hoover, and she survives.

Also surviving are seven children, Chad Shirey and wife Deb of Oil City, Terry L. Shirey, Jr. and fiancé Jennifer Weiser of Franklin, Tawnya Shirey of Oil City, Jodi Hockman and husband Steve of Franklin, Patricia Ann Yeager and husband Don of Oil City, Richard G. Hoover and wife Michelle of Oil City, and Joseph Alan Hoover and fiancé Stacey of Oil City; sixteen grandchildren and five great-grandchildren; four sisters: Donna Marshall and husband Blaine of Queen Creek, Arizona; Patricia Puleo and husband Dennis of Mesa, Arizona; Vicki Kahle and husband Ed of Mesa, Arizona; and Tammy Coniglio and husband Daniel of Mesa, Arizona; and three brothers: Charles Shirey and wife Mary Anne of Oil City; Thomas Shirey and wife Linda of Utica; and Randy Shirey and wife Mary of Oil City. Numerous nieces and nephews also survive.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, June L. Stover; and a niece, Terry Lynn Chase.

Family and friends are invited to attend the memorial service to celebrate Buck’s life at 5 p.m. on Thursday (April 17th) in the Hile-Best Funeral Home, 2781 Rte. 257 in Seneca, Cranberry Township. The Rev. Randy Kightlinger, V.N.A. hospice chaplain, will officiate.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Kirtland Cancer Foundation, P.O. Box 108, Franklin, PA 16323.

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

James Michael Ahrens, 60, a resident of the Golden Living Center in Clarion and formerly of Oil City, died Sunday afternoon April 13, 2014 in Clarion after an extended illness.

Born Jan. 24, 1954 in Oil City, PA., he was the son of Colleen J. Smith Ahrens and the late Donald P. Ahrens Sr.

James was a 1972 graduate of Oil City High School.

In his youth, James belonged to the Explorer’s Club and the Boy Scouts.

Later in life he enjoyed gardening, hiking, walking the bike trail, watching studio wrestling and enjoyed sports cars.

He had worked at Heath’s Market, the Oil City Hospital and as an assembler at Oilwell Supply.

In addition to his mother, Colleen J. Ahrens of Oil City, he is survived by a sister, Joyce Schattauer & her husband Fred of Oil City; two brothers, Christopher Ahrens of Ahrensville and Donald P. Ahrens of Oil City. Several aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews also survive.

He was preceded in death by his father, two sisters, Deborah Lee Ahrens; and an infant sister Mary Frances Ahrens.

Their will be no viewing or visitation.

Memorials may be made to the Venango County Humane Society or to the Samuel Justus Trail c/o Cranberry Twp. 3726 State Route 257 Seneca, PA. 16346

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

Condolences may be sent at www.reinselfuneralhome.com.

Helen Louise Dean, 85, of Henderson St., Brookville, passed away Tuesday April 15, surround by her family.

She was born in Portersville, Pa., on May 16, 1928, the daughter of William L. Duncan and Bessie C. Bartle Duncan.

She was married to Jay Fred Dean Sr., who survives.

Helen retired from the Brookville Area School District where she was the supervisor and cook of the Hickory Grove Cafeteria for 27 years.

Helen was a snowbird to St. Cloud, Fla. where she spent her winters until a few years ago when her health kept her from going. She enjoyed reading and cooking, but family was her passion and delight. There was nothing she loved more than spending time with her family. Helen was the glue that held the family together and her passing will leave a hole that can never be filled. She was a thoughtful, caring, loving, and kind person who touched many lives and will be missed by everyone that knew her.

She is survived by her 6 Daughters – Betsy Shanor (Don) of Beaver Falls, Pa., Alene Joiner (Bill) of Brookville, Pa., Susan Olson of Indiana, Dottie McStay (Jim) of Kissimmee, Fla., Kathy Park (Ben) of Corsica, Pa., and Rusty Pickard (John) of Butler, Pa. and 3 Sons – Jay Fred Dean Jr. of DuBois, Pa., Tom Dean (Patty) of Beljiumtown, Pa., and Rob Dean of Brookville, Pa., also, her 16 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in Death by: Parents, 5 brothers – William L. Duncan Jr., Orville R., Walter G., Arthur H., and Raymond C. Duncan, 2 Sisters LaVerna Baxter and Bessie Sanders.

Visitation hours will be Thurs. April 17, 2014 2-4 PM and 6-8 PM at McKinney Funeral Home.

Service will be held at 11:00 a.m., on April 18, and internment will be at Brookville Cemetery, in Brookville, Pa.

Memorials can be sent to McKinley Health Care Center – 133 Laurelbrooke Dr., Brookville, Pa. 15825.

Carlene Moody Chairge, 47, was welcomed into Jesus’ arms on Thursday, April 16, 2014. She passed peacefully surrounded by her family at Wilkes-Barre General Hospital after a 29-year battle with cancer.
She was born on Feb. 15, 1967, to Fred Moody and Frances Siracuse Moody of Forty Fort.

Carlene graduated from Wyoming Valley West High School in 1985. She worked for many years as a claims analysis at Sallie Mae. She was an inspirational mother, wife and grandmother. She was a member of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church.

Carlene is survived by her devoted husband, Anthony P. Chairge; her daughters, Deanna Chairge Appleton and Richard, Fort Lauderdale, Fla.; Kara Chairge Kohler and Arthur, Swoyersville; and her beloved grandchildren,

Griffin Anthony Kohler and Coral Elizabeth Appleton. Carlene also left behind her adored dogs, Emma and Febe.

In addition to the above, she is also survived by her brothers, Dr. Kurt Moody and Georgia, Jacksonville, Fla.; Fred S. Moody and Cathy, Larksville; sister, Karen Moody Schmader, and Larry, Lucinda, Pa.; her in-laws, Samuel and Shirley Bernardi Chairge, West Pittston; Samuel and Rose Chairge; Lisa and Frank Yurek, Suzanne and Michael Saville; along with many nieces, nephews and other wonderful family members.

Her family thanks all her dedicated doctors and staff who battled with her throughout the years. Despite her long journey, fighting disease after disease, Carlene lit the world up with her positive attitude and uplifting grace. She  led by example, teaching everyone around her to show unconditional love. Her contagious smile will be missed.

Viewing will take place 3 to 7 p.m. Saturday at the Anthony Recupero Funeral Home, 406 Susquehanna Ave., West Pittston. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 9 a.m. Monday in St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church, Swoyersville.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Medical Oncology Associates Prescription Assistance Fund, 382 Pierce St., Kingston, PA 18704.

Martha Fern Matthews, 90, of Kittanning, died Monday, April 14, 2014, surrounded by her loving family.

She was born on June 28, 1923 in Toby Township, Clarion County, the daughter of Samuel V. and Anna Blanche (Wilson) Myers.

Fern was a lifetime resident of the Kittanning area and graduated from Sligo High School in 1942. She was a member of St. Luke’s United Church of Christ.

Fern enjoyed quilting and walking her dog. She also loved the beach, but her favorite place to be was with her family.

Fern will be greatly missed by her family who deeply loved her.

Left to cherish her memory is her son, Ronald David Matthews and wife, Darlene, of Madison, Ala., and their son, Rick Korab; her daughter, Carol Bucko and husband, John, of Dayton, Pa., and their son, Matthew Bucko; her daughter, Barbara G. Heilman and husband, Curt, of Kittanning, and their daughter, Stephanie Edwards and husband, Matt; brother, Orville Myers, of Manfield, Texas; and sister, Anna Mae Lingenfelter, of Mechanicsburg, Pa.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Thomas D. Matthews; and three brothers: Dwight, Eugene and Vincent Myers.

At Fern’s request, services will be private. Arrangements are entrusted to Bauer Funeral Home in Kittanning.

Burial will be in Lawn Haven Burial Estates in Worthington.

Contributions can be made in Fern’s honor to St. Luke’s United Church of Christ, 333 N. McKean St., Kittanning, PA 16201.

To leave a condolence for Fern’s family, visit www.bauerfuneral.com.

Clyde E. Horner, 94, of Tionesta, passed away Friday, April 18, 2014 at Clarview Nursing and Rehad Center in Sligo.

Arrangements are incomplete at this time. A full obituary will be published as soon as it becomes available.

Faller Funeral Home, Inc. in Fryburg will be caring for the family.

Anne M. Kerle, 81, of Clarion, was called home to the Lord on Thursday, April 17, 2014.

Born October 9, 1932 in Clarion; she was the daughter of the late Joseph J. and Agnes B. Schill Kerle.

Anne was a graduate of the Immaculate Conception School.

She owned the Doris-Anne Beauty Salon on Main Street in Clarion for many years.

Anne was a member of the Immaculate Conception Church in Clarion, where she was very active in church activities.  She was also a member of Charitable Deeds and Services for 11 years.

She enjoyed cruises and traveling, especially to Europe, Lourdes, and Hawaii.  Anne also enjoyed hosting parties and cooking.  She looked forward to the Autumn Leaf Festival every year because she was surrounded by her friends and family.  Anne was devoted to her family and enjoyed making others happy.

Surviving are a sister, Doris Callen and her husband, Butch, of Florida; three brothers, John Kerle and his wife, Kate, of Knox, Jim Kerle  and his wife, Martha, of Clarion, and Jerome Kerle and his wife, Jan, of Florida; a sister-in-law, Dorothy Kerle of Fryburg; a number of nieces and nephews; and longtime friend, Mary Helen Senard of Clarion.

She was preceded in death by her parents, a brother, Joe Kerle, and a sister, Mary Lou Ball.

Family will receive friends from 4 to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, April 23, 2014, at the Robert V. Burns Funeral Home, 638 Wood Street, Clarion.

Wake service will be held at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, April 23, 2014, in the funeral home.

Mass of Christian burial will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, April 24, 2014, at the Immaculate Conception Church in Clarion with Rev. Monty Sayers, pastor of the Immaculate Conception Church, presiding.

Entombment will be held in the Immaculate Conception Cemetery Mausoleum.

In lieu of flowers, memorials and donations can be made to Charitable Deeds and Services, 98 Hickory Nut Lane, Knox PA 16232.

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

Virginia Sue Brosius, 63, of Jamestown, formerly of Oil City, passed away on April 17, 2014, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Virginia was born July 18, 1950, the daughter of Robert J. and Edna P. Baughman Brosius.

A complete obituary is not available.

Thomas A. Szafran, 64, of 296 Seaward Ave., Bradford, passed away Thursday, April 17, 2014, at his residence.

Born August 7, 1949 in Oil City, he was a son of the late Joseph and Frances (Woloszyn) Szafran. On June 29, 1991 in the First Baptist Church, he married Geneva Szafran who survives.

Mr. Szafran was a 1967 graduate of Oil City High School and a 1971 graduate of Slippery Rock University with a degree in Health and Physical Education. While in college, he was on the cross country and track team. He served four years in the United States Navy. He had worked for the Oil City Chamber of Commerce and owned and operated the Ultimate Record Store in Oil City. He then worked for the Chamber of Commerce in Bradford, was a substitute teacher for the Bradford Area School District and worked at Temple Inland for ten years. Prior to his retirement, he worked as a supervisor for McKean County Children and Youth Services.

He was a member of the YMCA and volunteered for Big Brothers and Big Sisters. He enjoyed watching the Pittsburgh Penguins, running, biking, gardening and do-it-yourself projects. He was a history buff, loved trivia and rescued many cats over the years. His most favorite times were spent with his grandchildren. He attended the First Baptist Church.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by two daughters, Susie (Brad) Walker, of State College, and Katie Szafran, of Las Vegas, NV, two grandchildren, Dexter Walker and Nolan Walker, two brothers, James (Frances) Szafran, of High Point, NC, and Frederick (Christy) Szafran, of Oil City, a sister-in -law Laurel (Todd) Homet of Waynesburg and several nieces and nephews.

Family will be receiving friends on Monday, April 21, 2014, from 3 to 5 and 7 to 9pm in the Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes, Inc., 372 East Main St., and again on Tuesday, April 22, 2014 from 10:00 to 11:00am in the First Baptist Church, 71 Congress Street, followed by funeral services at 11:00am with Jeremy Childs, pastor, and Rev. Leon Canfield, retired pastor co-officiating. Committal services, full military honors and burial will be in Willow Dale Cemetery.

Memorials, if desired, may be made to McKean County SPCA PO Box 113 Bradford, PA 16701 or Big Brothers and Big Sisters 110 Campus Dr., Bradford, PA 16701 or the American Heart Association 823 Filmore Ave. Erie, PA 16505.

Online condolences may be made at www.hollenbeckcahill.com

Ronald R. Fair, 89, of Buena Vista Rd., Chicora, passed away Friday morning, April 18, 2014, at the Butler Veteran’s Affairs Medical Center.

Mr. Fair was born in Butler on January 14, 1925. He was the son of Ray C. and Alice Gould Fair. Ronald was a graduate of Fairview Township Karns City High School. He had been employed by Pullman Standard in Butler as a welder and retired in 1980. Mr. Fair was long time member of the Concord Presbyterian Church and a member of the VFW in Chicora. He was a United States Army Veteran of World War II, and served in the 10th Mountain Division headquartered at Fort Drum in Watertown, NY. Mr. Fair was stationed in Italy during the war and was a Bronze Star recipient.

He is survived by his wife, Barbara Thompson Fair, whom he married in North Washington on July 28, 1950. Also surviving are two children, Gale L. Fair of Meridian, and Duane L. Fair and his wife, Barbara of Pensacola, FL; three grandchildren, Michelle Van Camp and her husband, Forrest of Pensacola, FL, Dr. Joshua Fair and his wife, Jolie of Fremont, MI, Matthew Fair and his wife, Anna of Pensacola, FL; eight great grandchildren, Riley, Winnie, Max, Jackson, Jude, Hudson, Beau, and Kinsley; two sisters, Shirley Protzman of Fenelton and Laura Brothers and her husband, George of Chicora; two brothers, Richard Fair and his wife, Martha of Butler and Darrell Fair and his wife, Dorothy of Palmetto, FL, as well as a number of nieces, nephews, cousins, brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law.

Friends will be received at the Hile Funeral Home of Karns City, 128 Main St., Karns City, from 2 -4 and 7 – 9 p.m. Tuesday. A funeral service will be held from the Concord Presbyterian Church at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday with the Rev. Robert Mathias, a retired Presbyterian pastor, officiating. Interment with military honors will be in the Concord Church Cemetery. Military honors will be provided by the Chicora and Brady’s Bend American Legion Posts and the Chicora VFW. To send a condolence, please visit www.hilefh.com

Helen C. Delaney, 94, of Chicora, formerly of Petrolia, died early Wednesday morning, April 16, 2014 at the VNA Inpatient Hospice in Butler.

Helen was born in Kaylor on November 12, 1919. She was the daughter of John William and Laura Rebecca Smith Bishop. She was of the Lutheran faith. She enjoyed word puzzles, crossword, crocheting, and playing bingo with her friends in the community room at the Chicora Commons. She had been a member of the Donegal Grange.

Helen was married on April 15, 1939 to Lester T. Delaney. He preceded her in death in 1972.

Helen is survived by a daughter, Donna L. Dunmyre and her husband, Terry of Chicora; a son, Lester A. Delaney and his wife, Patricia of Chicora; six grandchildren, Pamela Scott and her husband, Stephen, Susan Rothbauer and her husband, Joseph, all of Connoquenessing, Terry L. Dunmyre and his wife, Tammy of Fenelton, David Delaney of Butler, Marie Delaney of Chicora, and Joseph Delaney of Butler; eight great grandchildren, a long time special friend, Audrey Shearer of Butler, as well as a number of nieces nephews, and friends.

In addition to her husband, Mrs. Delaney was preceded in death by a grandson, Michael Dunmyre, a sister, Mildred Bishop Hiles, and brothers, Arthur, Joseph, Clarence, Charles, and John Bishop.

Friends will be received at the Hile Funeral Home of Chicora, 339 Chicora Fenelton Rd., Chicora from 11:00 a .m. – 2:00 p.m. Saturday. A funeral service will follow from the funeral home at 2:00 p.m. with the Rev. Joseph Boomhower, pastor of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, Chicora, officiating. Interment will be in Bear Creek Cemetery, Petrolia. Memorial contributions in Mrs. Delaney’s name may be made to The American Heart Association at www.heart.org or to the VNA Inpatient Hospice, 115 Technology Dr., Butler, Pa 16001. To send a condolence, please visit www.hilefh.com.

Betty E. Duncan, 88, of Western Avenue, Brookville, Pa., passed away on Friday, April 18, 2014, at Jefferson Manor in Brookville.

Born on August 11, 1925, in Brockway, Pa., she was the daughter of Warren Ent and Mary Elizabeth Dinger Ent.

On September 19, 1946, she married David John Duncan, in Franklin, Pa.; he survives. They were married for 68 years.

She was a homemaker and worked for Sylvania in Brookville.

She was a member of the Presbyterian Church in Brookville and the Order of the Eastern Star #320 of Brookville, Pa.

She enjoyed golfing, reading, sewing, and knitting.

She is survived by two daughters, Crystal L. Wilson (Larry) of Reynoldsville, and Tammy J. LaPlante (Jeff) of Houston, TX, and a son, David A. Duncan of Brookville.

She is also survived by a brother, Richard Ent (Phyllis) of Brookville; seven grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by two brothers, Robert Ent and Ramsey Ent, and a sister, Nellie Shaffer.

Visitation hours will be on Tuesday, April 22, 2014, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at McKinney Funeral Home located at 345 Main Street, Brookville, Pa.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, April 23, 2014, at 11:00 a.m. at McKinney Funeral Home, with The Rev. Nathan Royster officiating.

Interment will be at Brookville Cemetery in Brookville, Pa.

Memorials can be made to the Presbyterian Church, White and Main St., Brookville, Pa. 15825.

Mary E. Hankin, 84, of Seneca, died peacefully at her home on Thursday, April 17, 2014.

She was born September 29, 1929 in Oil City to the late Otto Howard and Rhea Alma (Deets) Lockwood.

In 1948 she graduated from Oil City High School.

In her earlier years, she was a homemaker and provided babysitting services from her home.

She then worked as a sales clerk for the Kresge Department store, and in the office for the Printz Co. clothing store. She later became employed by Oilwell Supply, and then worked as a key punch operator at Joy Manufacturing. She was also an Avon sales consultant.

Mary was involved with many area churches. She was a Sunday school teacher for the Christian Missionary Alliance Church in Oil City; president of the missions committee at the Franklin Christian Missionary Alliance Church; and was currently a member of the Seneca Evangelical Congregational Church, where she was active with their missions projects, and attended their widow support meetings.

Mary enjoyed crocheting, cooking, raising and caring for her family, and being involved with her church activities.

She was married in Trinity United Methodist Church in Oil City on August 25, 1951 to David E. Hankin, and he preceded her in death in 1990.

Surviving are five children: David Hankin and wife Rebecca of North Carolina, Paula Sanders and husband Gerald of Georgia, Joel Hankin and wife Sandy of Polk, Cynthia Wilkens and husband Paul of Florida, and Jonathan Hankin and wife Heather of Duluth, Minnesota. Her grandchildren include Eric, Caleb and Crystal Hankin, Meagan and Cassie Sanders, Ryan, Corrine, and Michael Hankin, Autumn and Grace Wilkens, and Heidi and Kristen Hankin; and one great-grandchild, Blaikely Trotter.

Also surviving are two sisters-in-law, Pat Lockwood of Oil City and Shirley Lockwood of Cranberry; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by a sister, Betty Driscoll; and three brothers, Howard, Charles, and Clifford Lockwood.

Friends will be received Monday (April 21) from 5-8 p.m. in the Hile-Best Funeral Home, Inc., 2781 Rte. 257 in Seneca, Cranberry Township. The funeral service will be held Tuesday (April 22) at 1 p.m. in the Seneca E.C. Church, 2844 Rte. 257, Seneca, with the Rev. Janor Bestwick, church pastor, and the Rev. David Hart, former pastor, officiating.

Interment will follow in Brandon Cemetery in Cranberry.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Seneca E.C. Church, 2844 Rte. 257, Seneca, PA 16346.

Anne M. Kerle, 81, of Clarion, was called home to the Lord on Thursday, April 17, 2014.

Born October 9, 1932 in Clarion; she was the daughter of the late Joseph J. and Agnes B. Schill Kerle.

Anne was a graduate of the Immaculate Conception School.

She owned the Doris-Anne Beauty Salon on Main Street in Clarion for many years.

Anne was a member of the Immaculate Conception Church in Clarion, where she was very active in church activities. She was also a member of Charitable Deeds and Services for 11 years.

She enjoyed cruises and traveling, especially to Europe, Lourdes, and Hawaii. Anne also enjoyed hosting parties and cooking. She looked forward to the Autumn Leaf Festival every year because she was surrounded by her friends and family. Anne was devoted to her family and enjoyed making others happy.

Surviving are a sister, Doris Callen and her husband, Butch, of Florida; three brothers, John Kerle and his wife, Kate, of Knox, Jim Kerle and his wife, Martha, of Clarion, and Jerome Kerle and his wife, Jan, of Florida; a sister-in-law, Dorothy Kerle of Fryburg; a number of nieces and nephews; and longtime friend, Mary Helen Senard of Clarion.

She was preceded in death by her parents, a brother, Joe Kerle, and a sister, Mary Lou Ball.

Family will receive friends from 4 to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, April 23, 2014, at the Robert V. Burns Funeral Home, 638 Wood Street, Clarion.

Wake service will be held at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, April 23, 2014, in the funeral home.

Mass of Christian burial will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, April 24, 2014, at the Immaculate Conception Church in Clarion with Rev. Monty Sayers, pastor of the Immaculate Conception Church, presiding.

Entombment will be held in the Immaculate Conception Cemetery Mausoleum.

In lieu of flowers, memorials and donations can be made to Charitable Deeds and Services, 98 Hickory Nut Lane, Knox PA 16232.

Clyde Earl Horner, 94, of Tionesta, passed away Friday, April 18, 2014 at Clarview Nursing and Rehab in Sligo PA.

Born October 12, 1919 in Hooversville PA, he was the son of the late Levi M. and Lottie A. Shaffer Horner.

Clyde was married May 10, 1940 to the Dorothy Jane Fisher Horner; in a double wedding with his sister-in-law Helen Corbett and her husband Charles, formerly of Hooversville, PA. The ceremony took place at Christ Lutheran Church in Jennerstown. His loving wife Dorothy preceded him in death on January 24, 2011, after seventy years of marriage.

Clyde attended eight years of school at Quemahoning Township School. At age 10 he grew his first potato crop as a 4-H project. Clyde joined his father on the home farm after completing school. He also lumbered, deep mined, and produced maple syrup. In 1940 upon marriage Clyde joined Fisher Brothers Farms as a partner with his brother-in-law, David Fisher and grew potatoes and dairy farmed through 1954. In 1955 Clyde and Dorothy moved to Stoystown, PA and created Long Acres Potato Farms. In 1967 Clyde and Dorothy moved to Clarion County and for two years they farmed in both Clarion and Somerset Counties. The three-generation farming operation produces and sells potatoes and grain on 3000 acres and supplies crop inputs, equipment and trucking throughout Western Pennsylvania. Clyde was active in all aspects of the family business from grading and selling potatoes, to bookkeeping and strategic planning. He actively ran equipment including his favorite 7810 John Deere tractor until recently.

Clyde was extremely proud of his family, grandchildren and employees and was happiest when surrounded by them. He will forever be remembered for his kindness, practicality, devotion, and love of education and reading. He will be remembered for his hard work and cooperative spirit and always believed that “Any job worth doing was worth doing well.” He enjoyed traveling, visiting many foreign countries and all 50 states. He was extremely passionate about agriculture and was very proud to be the founder of Long Acres Potato Farm. He enjoyed gardening and had a hunting camp for many years in Clinton County. He especially enjoyed spending the winter in Kissimmee, Florida with his family.

He was a committed member of Faith Lutheran Church in Venus, PA. He was also very active in Farm Bureau Advisory Council. In 1977 and 2014 Clyde and Long Acres Farms were selected as Clarion County Farmer of the Year.

He is survived by two children and their spouses: Donald J. Horner and wife Ethel (Shockey), of Tionesta; and Doris J. Beck and husband Clarence, of Tionesta.

Clyde “Poppy” will be deeply missed by his 5 grandchildren and spouses: Rhonda Bendal and husband Larry of Tionesta; Douglas Horner of Orlando, FL; Janeen Leon and husband Carlos of Strongsville, OH; Dr. Janice Dunkle and husband John of Sigel; and Bryan Beck and wife Heidi of Tionesta; twelve great-grandchildren, one great-great-grandchild and several nieces and nephews.

Clyde was preceded in death by his wife Dorothy, his parents, his step-mother Velma Roland, an infant brother, an infant sister, a brother Herbert Horner and sisters Mildred Stotler and Betty Phillippi.

Friends will be received from 2 to 4 & 7 to 9 p.m. on Monday, April 21, 2014 at the Faller Funeral Home in Fryburg.

Funeral Services and Liturgy will be conducted at Faith Lutheran Church, Venus, on Tuesday, April 22, 2014 at 11:00 a.m., Rev. John Wood will officiate.

On Wednesday, April 23, 2014 friends will be received at Hauger-Zeigler Funeral Home, 494 Main Street, Somerset, PA 15501 from 10am to 11:30am. Internment will be at 11:30am at the Somerset Memorial Park, 104 New Centerville Road, Somerset, PA with Rev. John A. Wood will be officiating.

Charitable donations may be made in Clyde’s memory to the Faith Lutheran Church.

Please visit www.fallerfuneralhome.com to share your memories and photos and offer your condolences.

Charitable donations may be made in Clyde’s memory to the following organization:

Faith Lutheran Church
1759 County Line Rd., Venus, PA 16364
Tel: 814-354-2537

Patricia Ann (McCue) Finnegan, 83, of 25 Lake St., Stoneboro, passed away peacefully with her family at her side early on Easter Sunday, April 20, 2014, at home of natural causes.
She was born July 26, 1930, in Pittsburgh. She was a 1948 graduate of Shaler High School.

In her early years, she worked at Allegheny General Hospital in Pittsburgh. In the past, she was employed locally by the following: Lakeview School District, Costello’s Candies, Orchard Manor Nursing Home and Natili’s Restaurant of Butler.

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

Her husband Lawrence J. Finnegan, whom she married July 29, 1950, preceded her in death on July 27, 1995.

She was the loving mother of seven children, including two daughters: Mary T. Stephens and her husband, Dennis, and their children Scott and Sally of Vienna, Va.; and Rita A. Romig and her husband, Jeffrey, and their children Melanie (Wagner), Amanda and Jonathan of Penfield, N.Y.

She is also survived by four sons: Lawrence J. Finnegan, Jr. and his wife, Cynthia M. Russo, of Mount Laurel, N.J.; Thomas R. Finnegan and his wife, Karen J., and their daughter, Stephanie, of Mercer; Edward C. Finnegan and his wife, Cheryl L., of Cary, Ill.; and Robert A. Finnegan and his wife, Susan M., and their son, Bobby, of Sandy Lake.

She was also the great-grandmother of William G. Wagner, son of Melanie and Michael Wagner, of Victor, N.Y.

In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by a son, Kenneth J. Finnegan, in 2001.

Friends and family may call from 2 to 4 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m. Wednesday in the Scott A. Black Funeral Home, 99 Franklin St., Stoneboro. A prayer vigil will take place at 8:30 p.m. in the funeral home.

Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10 a.m. Thursday in St. Columbkille Roman Catholic Church, 70 Franklin St., Stoneboro, with the Rev. Robert A. Manning, as celebrant.

Interment will follow at the Calvary Cemetery in Butler.

Donations in Patricia’s memory can be made to Kings and Queens of Lakeview Manor, 25 Lake St., Stoneboro, Pa., 16153.

Elery Leroy Smith, age 86, of Guys Mills, died April 19, at Marquette Hospice House, Meadville.

He was born on August 20, 1927 in Black Ash. He was the son of Elmer and Irene Walker Smith. He married Florence Bumpus Smith on November 10, 1951.

He was a 4th generation dairy farmer for over 60 years, in partnership with his wife Florence and son Keith. He also drove school bus for Cochranton schools for many years.

He was an active member of the Sugar Lake United Methodist Church, where he served in many roles. He and his wife were board members for Black Ash Cemetery, where his wife is interred.

In his younger years, he enjoyed baseball, playing for the Black Ash team. He declined recruitment offers to play baseball in favor of leading a family oriented life in the country with his wife Florence. He will be remembered for his soft spoken manner, kind and generous heart, steadfast faith in God, and an overwhelming love for his family.

He was preceded in death by his wife Florence, who passed away on May 21, 2008, after 56 years of marriage.

He is survived by his four children: Noreen Sayers of Bradleytown, Keith Smith of Cooperstown, Cheryl Thomas and her husband David, of Guys Mills, and David Smith and his wife Deborah, of Duarte, California. Nine grandchildren, Jameson Walker and his wife Kristin, Sarah Mattocks and her husband Alex, Tavis Sayers and his wife Stacey, Zachary Smith, Nathaniel Smith, Elizabeth Baker and her husband Brent, Andrew Cervone and his wife Alynn, Jordan Smith and Taylor Smith. Nine great-grandchildren, Jaiben Walker, Justice Walker, Judson Walker, Jackson Mattocks, Jillian Mattocks, Isaiah Sayers, Alexia Sayers, Grace Cervone, and Sophia Baker, and a new great-grandson due in May, Asher Sayers.

He is also survived by his sisters Alice Marie (Peg) Messerall of Meadville, and Linda Vaughn and her husband Bill, of Paris, Illinois, and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by a sister Mildred Brown, and brothers Howard Smith, Walter Smith, and Gaylord Smith and a son in law, Thomas Sayers.

Friends may call at the Dickson Family Funeral Home, Inc., 123 S.Franklin St., Cochranton, on April 22 from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9. Funeral services will be held April 23 at 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home, with Frank Weingard, pastor of Sugar Lake United Methodist Church, officiating. Interment will be in Black Ash Cemetery.

Memorials can be made to the Sugar Lake United Methodist Church, 6680 Sugar Lake Rd. Cochranton, PA 16314 or to the Elery Smith Memorial Gift at the Marquette Hospice House, c/o Crawford County Hospice, 464 Pine Street, Meadville, PA 16335.

James M. Beichner “Grumpy”, 74, of Shippenville passed away suddenly on Saturday April 19, 2014.

Born on August 14, 1939 in Shippenville, PA, he was the son of Frank E. and Hattie E. Baughman Beichner.

James attended Shippenville School.

On October 2, 1965, he was married to Virginia “Ginny” Gatesman Beichner who survives.

He was a member of St. Michael Church in Fryburg, K of C in Lucinda, and the Liars Club at the Carriage Inn in Knox.

James worked for Fred Deemer Trucking in Reynoldsville, PA, Knox Glass for 23 years, Gatesman plumbing and heating for 12 years, he also owed the Deer Creek Trailer Park in Shippenville and Pure Water Supplies.

He enjoyed gardening, playing his version of 500, visits to the casino, cruises, and his daily Crown. He was always there to lend a helping hand to anyone who need it.

James served in the United States Army from 1962 to 1964.

He is survived by his wife Virginia “Ginny” and their children: James Beichner, Jr., and wife Marci “Keatley,” of Marble, and their children Zachery, and Maddi; Frank Beichner of West Newton, PA, and children Casey, Cameron, and Caleb; Dr. Scott Beichner and wife Lynda “Varner,” of Boardman, OH, and their children Andrew, Lainey, Matthew, and Charlie; Heidi Vacca and Husband Dan, of Palm Beach Gardens, FL, and children Daniel and Samantha.

Also surviving are a brother Allen Beichner and wife Delores, of Shippenville; a brother Richard Beichner and wife Meda, of Shippenville; a sister Geraldine Deemer, of Reynoldsville, PA; a sister Margaret Fair of Spring Hill, FL; a sister Rita Kiehl and husband Richard, of Cranberry; and a sister Judy McCleary and husband Terry, of Knox; and brother-in-law Thomas Kiehl and William Matthews.

James was preceded in death by his parents; brother Francis “Tiger” and his wife Esther; and a brother Leonard; brother-in-law Fred Deemer; sister Esther Matthews; brother-in-law Joe Fair; sister Elva Kiehl; and brother-in-law Raymond Cope.

The family will receive friends from 2pm to 4pm and 7pm to 9pm on Tuesday, April 22, 2014, at Faller Funeral Home, Inc. in Fryburg.

A parish vigil service will be held at 3:45pm on Tuesday, April 22, 2014, at the funeral home.

Mass of a Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11am on Wednesday, April 23, 2014, at St. Michael Church in Fryburg with Rev. D.G. Davis III, Pastor as celebrant.

Interment will be in the St. Michael Cemetery following the Mass.

Memorials may be made to St. Michael Church Interior Restoration Fund.

Please visit www.fallerfuneralhome.com to share your memories and photos and offer your condolences.

Alfred W. Porter, Jr., 52, of Seysler Road, Franklin died at 11:41 p.m. on Saturday, April 19, 2014 at his residence.

Born July 2, 1961 in Franklin, PA, Alfred was the son of Alfred and Margaret (Ferringer) Porter.

Alfred was a 1980 graduate of Rocky Grove High School. He attended Abundant Life Fellowship Church. He enjoyed watching services from the Christ United Methodist Church on television.

Mr. Porter is survived by his father, Alfred W. Porter, Sr. of Franklin and his brother, Charles S. Porter of Sugarcreek.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Margaret (Ferringer) Porter in 2007.

Services are private and will be held at the convenience of the family. The Gardinier Funeral Home, Inc., 1315 Chestnut Street, Franklin is handling the arrangements.

Interment will be in Rimersburg Cemetery.

In Alfred’s memory, memorial donations may be made to the Humane Society, P.O. Box 1045, Oil City, PA 16301.

To send online condolences, flowers, cards, or for further information, family and friends are invited to visit www.gardinierfuneralhome.com.