Obituary Notice: Billi Joann “Billi Jo” Johns and James R. Spencer (Provided photo)

Billi Joann “Billi Jo” Johns, 46, and James R. Spencer, 49, of Beccaria died Friday, Oct. 27, 2017 as the result of an auto accident in Osceola Mills.

She was born Sept. 9, 1971 in Cleveland, Ohio. She was the daughter of late William and Elizabeth (Wrobleski) Johns. She was a homemaker.

She is survived by one daughter, Libby Ann Spencer, at home; one son, James Spencer of Reynoldsville; four sisters, Sharon Price and her husband, John, Valarie Morris, Julie Flick and her husband, Ron and Joyce Spencer and her husband, Chalmer; and one brother, Dennis Johns and his wife, Jackie.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by one sister, Patricia Hall and one brother, Gary W. Johns Sr.

Mr. Spencer was born June 13, 1968 in Philipsburg. He was the son of the late Chalmer E. Spencer and Sarah (Kerr) Spencer. He worked as a tree climber.

He is survived by two daughters, Sarah Demaio of Stroudsburg and Libby Ann Spencer, at home; one son, James Spencer of Reynoldsville; two sisters, Mechele Gaston and her husband, Tom and Cora Gathagan and her husband, Glen; and two brothers, LeRoy Spencer and his wife, Nancy and Chalmer Spencer Jr. and his wife, Joyce.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one brother, Melvin Spencer.

A joint memorial service will be held at 7 p.m. Thursday at the Heath Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Osceola Mills with Pastor Robert Kline officiating.

Friends will be received from 4 p.m. – 7 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be made to Heath Funeral Home & Cremation Services, P.O. Box 157, Osceola Mills, PA 16666.

To sign the online guestbook, go to: www.heathfuneral.com.

Obituary Notice: Annette I. (Williams) Martell (Provided photo)

Annette I. (Williams) Martell, 57, of Frenchville died Friday, Oct. 27, 2017 at Mount Nittany Medical Center, State College.

She was born April 15, 1960 in Clearfield, a daughter of Ottis W. and Elda M. (Maines) Williams, both of whom preceded her in death.

She was a 1978 graduate of Philipsburg – Osceola Area High School. She was employed for more than 25 years with the Philipsburg – Osceola School District as an instructional assistant until her retirement in June of 2017.

She was a member of the Loyal Order of Moose, Clearfield Lodge No. 97, Wallaceton.

She was married Sept. 30, 1978 in Philipsburg to Robert L. Kyler Jr. He preceded her in death Dec. 29, 2009.  She was then married Nov. 3, 2012 in Morrisdale to Raymond P. “Butch” Martell III. He survives at home.

She is also survived by two sons, Robert L. Kyler III and his wife, Dawn of Philipsburg and Shawn M. Kyler of (Atlantic) RD Houtzdale; two step-daughters, Bethany Martell and her companion, Robert “Bob” Hampton and Jamie Dunlap and her companion, Curt Maines, all of Clearfield; two step-sons, Kyler Figart of Osceola Mills and Raymond P. Martell IV of Winburne; three grandchildren, Robert L. Kyler IV, Natalie Kyler and Collin Kyler, all of Philipsburg; four step-grandchildren, Wyatt and James Hampton and Adriana and Malachi Maines, all of Clearfield; one sister, Cynthia E. Williams of Philipsburg; two brothers, David E. Williams of Clearfield and Edward A. Williams of (Atlantic) RD Houtzdale; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was also preceded in death by three brothers, Ottis W. “Butch” Williams Jr., Jon A. “BeBe” Williams and Daniel J. “Dan” Williams.

A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday at the Beezer-Heath Funeral Home, 719 E. Spruce St., Philipsburg, with Dean Richards officiating.

Friends will be received from 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. Friday and from 9 a.m. – 11 a.m. Saturday at the funeral home.

The family has extended an invitation to join them for a reception and time of fellowship at the Clearfield Moose Lodge No. 97, Wallaceton, immediately following the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Moose Charities/Mooseheart Program, 155 S. International Dr., Mooseheart, IL 60539 or at mooseheart.org.

Family and friends may sign the online guestbook and share memories at www.beezerheathfh.com.

Harold James Muir, 88, a resident of Windy Hill Village P.S.L., Philipsburg, died Sunday, Oct. 29, 2017 at the village.

Born Dec. 1, 1928 in Philipsburg, he was a son of the late Ernest and Ruth (Emigh) Muir.

He was a 1946 graduate of the Philipsburg High School. He worked as a lineman for the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) until his retirement in 1992.

He was a veteran of the U.S. Army during the Korean era. He was also a member of the Grace United Methodist Church, Philipsburg.

He enjoyed gardening, fishing and hunting and cherished his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

On Oct. 16, 1950 in Philipsburg, he married Beulah M. “Boots” (Burge) Muir. She preceded him in death July 30, 2007.

He is survived by two daughters, Ruth M. Krause and her husband, Scott of Osceola Mills and Patricia A. Tarbay and her husband, Paul of Philipsburg; two daughters-in-law, Beth Muir of Frackville and Kathy Muir of Philipsburg; and a sister, Betty Hughes of Pittsburgh.

He is also survived by seven grandchildren, Melissa McMullen, Jason Muir, Joshua Muir, Jayne Livergood, Julie Cowher, Krista Muir and Jennifer Tarbay and 11 great-grandchildren, Andrew McMullen, Lydia McMullen, Nevaeh Muir, JJ Muir, Tyler Muir, Jackson Muir, Alyvia Muir, Paisley Muir, Nolan Livergood, Adalynn Cowher and Emily Cowher.  

In addition to his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by two sons, Harold James “Jim” Muir Jr. and Thomas R. Muir; a grandson, Douglas Harold Krause; two brothers, John and Richard Muir; and a sister, Pyretta Dumpleton.

A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday at the David K. Dahlgren Funeral Home, Philipsburg, with the Rev. Michelle R. Bodle officiating. Burial with military honors will be held at the Philipsburg Cemetery.

Friends will be received from 5 p.m. – 8 p.m. Wednesday and from 9 a.m. – 11 a.m. Thursday at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be made to Grace United Methodist Church, 912 E. Pine St., Philipsburg, PA 16866 or to Abundant Life Fellowship, 102 Fairway Dr., Philipsburg, PA 16866.

Online condolences to the family may be made at www.dahlgrenfuneralhome.com.

Lois A. Knepp, 68, of Clearfield died Saturday, Oct. 28, 2017 at Christ the King Manor, DuBois.

She was born Sept. 8, 1949, a daughter of Ruth (Liegey) Wooster of Clearfield and the late Fredrick S. Wooster.

She had been a humane officer for Clearfield County for several years. She then worked in the maintenance department at Parker Dam State Park; she later was employed by HRI Construction in State College.  She had most recently worked at Fink Transportation. 

She loved to fish and take leisure drives in the country.  Most of all, she had a deep love of animals and gave many stray animals homes throughout her life.

In addition to her mother, she is survived by her beloved fiancé, Roger D. Thomas of Clearfield; three children, Donald ‘Beaver’ Read and his wife, Lorre of Clearfield, Dale ‘Vern’ Read of Tyrone and Gail ‘Tommy’ Crain and her husband, Rich of Gearhartville; three step-children, Susan Knepp Moore and her husband, Chris and David Knepp, both of Clearfield, and Daniel Lee Knepp and his fiancée, Stacy Robison of Bigler; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and a sister, Billie Jean Steinbach and her husband, Jerome of South Carolina.

In addition to her father, she was preceded in death by an infant son, William Brian.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday at the Kevin A. Beardsley Funeral Home, Clearfield.

It was Ms. Knepp’s specific request that anyone coming to the funeral home to dress casual and jeans are encouraged.

Friends will be received from 9 a.m. – 11 a.m. Saturday at the funeral home.

The family suggests that memorial contributions be made to Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, 275 21st St., Clearfield.

To sign the online guestbook, go to www.beardsleyfuneralhome.com.

Stanley F. Solarczyk Jr., 72, of Clearfield died Saturday, Oct. 28, 2017 at his home.

He was born May 11, 1945 in Lilly, a son of the late Stanley and Phoebe (Sweeney) Solarczyk.

Mr. Solarczyk retired from West Branch School District as an elementary physical education teacher for 30 years. 

He coached girls’ basketball at West Branch High School and assisted with girls’ basketball at Clearfield High School. 

Mr. Solarczyk enjoyed his time golfing and being a member of the Clearfield Curwensville Country Club. 

He was also a member of the St. Francis Catholic Church, Clearfield. He served with the U.S. Army during the Vietnam era.

He is survived by his son, David Solarczyk and his wife, Colleen of Hamilton Square, NJ; a granddaughter, Lilly Solarczyk; and three sisters, Frances Bacchus of Glen Mills, Dotty Smith and her husband, Sam of Southbury, Conn., and Joan Turner of Woodridge, Va.; and several nephews and nieces and great-nieces and great-nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Maryanne Solarczyk.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be said at 10:30 a.m. Friday at the St. Francis Catholic Church, Clearfield, with Father Brandon Kleckner as celebrant. Burial will be in the Calvary Cemetery, Clearfield.

Friends will be received from 5 p.m. – 8 p.m. Thursday and from 9:30 a.m. – 10 a.m. Friday at the Kevin A. Beardsley Funeral Home, Clearfield.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorial contributions be made to the West Branch High School Girls’ Basketball Boosters, 444 Allport Cutoff, Morrisdale, PA 16858 or to the Clearfield Bison Girls’ Basketball Boosters, 2831 Washington Ave., Clearfield, PA 16830.

To sign the online guestbook, go to www.beardsleyfuneralhome.com.

Obituary Notice: Bruce A. Baggett (Provided photo)

Bruce A. Baggett, 82, of Clearwater, Fla., and formerly of Clearfield, died Tuesday, Sept. 26, 2017 at Freedom Square Rehab and Nursing Services in  Seminole, Fla.

He was the son of the late Joseph Jennings and Mary Virginia Armstrong Baggett.

In 1963, he married “Ginny” Virginia (Davis) Baggett. She preceded him in death March 10, 2015.

He graduated in 1956 from Occidental College, Pasadena, Calif., with a Bachelor’s degree in voice with minors in woodwinds and conducting.

Later in New York City, he attended Columbia University, earning a Master’s degree and ED.D., in music and music education.

His doctoral dissertation was titled “A Guide to the Understanding and Performance of Selected Schubert Song Cycles.”

He had many opportunities during his lengthy career to purse both classical music and that of the popular music genre.

After his undergraduate studies in California, he went to New York City and studied voice under the tutelage of Sergius Kagan at Juilliard.

He sang with the Robert Shaw Chorale and was bass baritone soloist at Fifth Avenue Presbyterian Church and Hitchcock Presbyterian Church in Scarsdale, NY.

He performed in summer stock with a leading role in “Brigadoon” and in “Wish You Were Here.” He sang at the New York City Center with Howard Keel in “Carousel.”

He joined the Ray Charles Singers on the Perry Como Show and sang in a trio with Harry Belafonte on his World Tour.

He performed in many television shows, such as the Ed Sullivan Show, The Garry Moore Show with Carol Burnett, Omnibus, Bell Telephone Hour and the Hallmark Hall of Fame. He worked as a special products music producer for CBS Columbia Records and sang in a quartet during Radio City Music Hall holiday specials.

He was a member of the Chuck Cassey Singers on the Jimmy Dean Show. When the show ended, he went on the road to perform in such places as Harrah’s Club in Lake Tahoe and The Sands in Las Vegas.

After several years with Jimmy Dean, he joined The Four Lads. The group performed all over the country and in Singapore and Japan; they were well-known for their hit songs, “Standing on the Corner” and “Moments to Remember.”

Later he sang with the Pied Pipers, a group made by Frank Sinatra and Jo Stafford, and he sang the Sinatra solos. Both the Four Lads and Pied Pipers were featured selections of the Clearfield Community Concert Association series while he was a member of these groups.

He also sang as a soloist with the Glenn Miller Orchestra and Al Martino.

He was a secondary music teacher in Westport, Conn., and assistant professor of music at City University of New York (CUNY).

After moving to Clearfield with his wife and two children, he taught in the Clearfield Schools as well as Penn State DuBois as a music lecturer.

He was also director of the Clearfield County Head Start Program and director of the Clearfield Choral Society. He performed in the State College Opera Society and was director of music at St. John’s Lutheran Church.

Along with his wife “Ginny,” he was owner and proprietor of the historic Christopher Kratzer House Bed and Breakfast since 1991.

He is survived by his two children, Paige Riggins of Orlando, Fla., and Tim Baggett of Los Angeles, Calif. Also surviving are two grandchildren, Austin and Baylee Riggins and a sister, Jeanine Kornstein and her husband, Robert of San Dimas, Calif.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 9 at the Clearfield Presbyterian Church with the Rev. Dr. Jimmy Hopper and Mr. Richard B. Barkley co-officiating.

There will be a time of receiving of friends at a light luncheon following the service held at the church hall. Burial will be in Hillcrest Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the Clearfield Arts Studio Theatre, P.O. Box 613 Clearfield, PA 16830.

Online tributes can be made at www.bennettandhouser.com or www.mem.com.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Bennett & Houser Funeral Home Inc., Clearfield.

Obituary Notice: Gerald P. “Jerry Paul” Pollock (Provided photo)

Gerald P. “Jerry Paul” Pollock, 51, of Treasure Lake, died unexpectedly Sunday, Oct. 29, 2017 at Penn Highlands DuBois.

He was born Sept. 6, 1966 in Philipsburg, the beloved son of Alice J. (Simcox) Pollock of Hawk Run and the late Gerald G. “Jerry” Pollock.

He was a 1984 graduate of West Branch Area High School, Allport. During his junior year in high school, he attained the rank of Eagle Scout as a member of Troop 46, Bucktail Council, Boy Scouts of America.  

Following high school, he graduated from the Williamsport Hospital Paramedic Program in 1986.

He met the love of his life, the former Jill M. (Pyle), and they were married on April 22, 1995, at the Punxsutawney Church of God.

He began his professional career in Kansas City, Mo., where he was first employed as a firefighter paramedic and then as a paramedic for Claycomo and MAST. 

He then moved back to Pennsylvania where he continued his medic career for ASMC at Citizens, Punxsutawney and Clearfield.

He continued his career in public service work as a deputy director for the Clearfield County Department of Emergency Services and the Silver Jackets Organization.

He was a member of the Central District Fireman’s Association. He was a lifetime member of the Wallaceton and Morris Township Fire Departments.

He was also a member of Northpoint Fire Department, and he was a volunteer for its water rescue team for which he recently attended training in South Bend, Ind.

He was also a member of the Treasure Lake Sportsmen’s Club and enjoyed participating as an instructor for its “Women on Target” program.

In his spare time, he loved cooking, canning, woodworking, traveling and spending time with his family.

The family will receive friends from 4 p.m. – 8 p.m. Wednesday at the Beezer-Heath Funeral Home, 719 E. Spruce St., Philipsburg. A memorial service will be held at the convenience of the family.         

Family and friends may sign the online guestbook and share memories at www.beezerheathfh.com.

Obituary Notice: Vivian Charlene Read

Vivian Charlene Read, 66, of Woodland died Sunday, Oct. 29, 2017 at UPMC Presbyterian Hospital, Pittsburgh.

Mrs. Read was born Feb. 26, 1951 in Buckhannon, W.Va., the daughter of the Rev. Leo and Ethleen (Casto) Black.

She had worked at Ridgeview Elder Care and Clearfield Home Health as a nurse’s aide for 20 years.

Mrs. Read loved to read Stephen King books and enjoyed her fur babies.

She is survived by her husband, Charles G. Read, to whom she was married Dec. 16, 1967 in Clearfield by the Rev. Bishop.

She is survived by two children, Lisa Read of Gaithersburg, Md., and Brian Read and his wife, Sue Pavlosky Read of Woodland; five grandchildren, Joshua Read of DuBois, Courtney Craft and her husband, Ryan and Stephanie Dilts, all of Punxsutawney, Eric Dilts of Texas and Christina Dilts of Woodland; three great-grandchildren, Connor Harvey and Brielle Craft, both of Punxsutawney, and Damian Read of Penfield; and a sister, Sylvia Snyder and her husband, Jim of West Virginia.

She was preceded in death by her parents; an infant son, Charles Neil Read; and two brothers, Roger and Gary Black.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday at the Bennett & Houser Funeral Home Inc. of Clearfield with Sallie Swenson, pastoral leader, officiating. Burial will be in Goshen Cemetery.

Friends will be received from 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. Friday and from 10 a.m. – 11 a.m. Saturday at the funeral home.

The family suggests that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be made to the Bigler-Jackson-Woodland Volunteer Fire Company.

To send online tributes, go to www.bennettandhouser.com or www.mem.com.

D. Elaine “Tyke” Amon, 83, of Milton and formerly of DuBois, died Tuesday, Oct. 31, 2017 at the Watsontown Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Watsontown, Pa.

Born Dec. 5, 1933 in Indiana County, Pa., she was the daughter of the late Marlin and Margaret (Sink) Lukehart.

She married James Stewart. He preceded her in death. On Feb. 15, 2003, she married Robert F. Amon. He survives.

She retired after having more than 30 years of service as an administrative assistant for the Riverside division of the Penn Traffic Company.

She was a member of the Christian Missionary and Alliance Church in DuBois and attended the First Baptist Church of Milton. She taught for PA Literary Council in DuBois and enjoyed reading and needlework.

She is survived by one step-daughter, Barbara Hunter and her husband, David of Turbotville, Pa.; two step-grandchildren, Chad and Daniel Hunter; and two step-great-grandchildren, Sidney and Hannah Hunter.

She was preceded in death by a sister, Louise Wray.

Friends will be received from 9 a.m. – 11 a.m. Saturday at the Baronick Funeral Home & Crematorium Inc.

A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday at the Baronick Funeral Home & Crematorium Inc. with Pastor Dick Whitaker officiating. Burial will be in Morningside Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to the Christian Missionary & Alliance, 8595 Explorer Dr., Colorado Springs, CO 80920 or the World Gospel Mission, 3783 E. State Rd., 18, P.O. Box 948, Marion, IN 46952-0948.

Online condolences may be sent to www.baronickfuneralhome.com.

Garry Kenneth Sones, 66, of Drifting went to be with the Lord on Tuesday, Oct. 31, 2017 at Mount Nittany Medical Center, State College.

Born July 21, 1951 in Philipsburg, he was the son of the late Myles K. and Pauline Miller Sones.

Surviving is his fiancée, Shelly O’Neill, who resides in Allport.

Also surviving are his son, Michael P. Sones and his wife, Fawn of Houtzdale; his sister, Lorrayne Martin and her husband, Lenny of Drifting; his brothers, Dale Sones and his wife, Cathy of Clearfield and Randy Sones and his wife, Donna and Jack Sones and his wife, Lisa, both of Hyde; six grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Mr. Sones was a 1969 graduate of West Branch Area High School. He was a veteran of the U.S. Navy, serving during the Vietnam era. He enjoyed hunting, motorcycling and working.

Family and friends will be received from 4 p.m. – 6 p.m. Saturday at Strange & Weaver Funeral Service, Morrisdale.

Funeral services will be held at 6 p.m. Saturday at the Chapel of Strange & Weaver Funeral Service, Morrisdale, with the Rev. James Hollister officiating.

The family suggests that memorial contributions be made to, West Branch Sportsman Club, 2657 Schoonover Rd., Morrisdale, PA 16858.

Obituary Notice: Genevieve Mae Kennedy (Provided photo)

Genevieve Mae Kennedy, 82, went home to be with the Lord Jesus in the afternoon of Nov. 1, 2017 at Mount Nittany Medical Center, State College.

Born Nov. 19, 1934 in Philipsburg to Edward Sr., and Mary (Burton) Long of Gearhartville, she was a life-long resident of Osceola Mills.

She attended the former Philipsburg High School, and on March 21, 1951, she wed Harold Lee Kennedy at the Christian and Missionary Alliance Church in Osceola Mills.

She worked at several local businesses, including the Quaker Market and Navasky’s of Philipsburg.

Along with her husband, she also owned and operated a small second-hand shop at her home.

She faithfully attended the Christian and Missionary Alliance Church, where she was a lifetime member.

At 7:30 every weekday evening, she, along with whoever happened to be visiting, would sit down to watch her favorite show, Wheel of Fortune.

She also loved camping with family, cooking, crocheting, Penn State football and ice cream.

Welcoming her home are her husband, Harold; her parents; a brother, Ed Long; and a sister, Doris Crain.

She is survived by three daughters, Diana Tormey and her husband, Robert and Sharon Laskowsky and her husband, Terry Sr., all of Osceola Mills, and Amy Pepperday and her husband, Douglas of Philipsburg.

She is survived by six grandchildren, Shawn Minerich and his wife, Bev, Terry Laskowsky Jr. and his wife, Marisa, Ashley Roney, Kristina Zendek and her husband, Jason and Cody and Caleb Pepperday and six great-grandchildren.

Also surviving are a sister, Florence Hamer of Brisbin and a brother, Duane Long and his wife, Jane of Philipsburg.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday at the Osceola Mills Christian and Missionary Alliance Church.

Friends and family will be received from 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. and from 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. Friday at the Heath Funeral Home & Cremation Services in Osceola Mills and from 10 a.m. Saturday until the funeral time at the church, with the Rev. William G. Murphy officiating. Burial will be at the Umbria Cemetery in Osceola Mills.

Any interaction with Mrs. Kennedy was sure to include an update on her children and grandchildren. She never missed an opportunity to tell others how much God had given her, and her heart had an infectious love and spirit that spread to everyone she met.

Our hearts were broken when we saw you go, but there is no question that you finished the race. The Eastern Gates are open wide, so just follow the whistling and you will find Dad and Jesus in Glory.

To sign the online guestbook, go to: www.heathfuneral.com.

Harold “Hun” Bell, 92, of Frenchville died Wednesday, Nov. 1, 2017 at his residence.

The family will receive friends from 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. Saturday at the Beezer-Heath Funeral Home, 719 E. Spruce St., Philipsburg. A complete obituary will be published when available.

Family and friends may sign the online guestbook and share memories at www.beezerheathfh.com.

Florence C. Stoltz Jack, 84, of DuBois and formerly of Emporium, died Thursday, Nov. 2, 2017 at Christ the King Manor.

Born June 11, 1933 in St. Boniface, Pa., she is the daughter of the late Wilfred and Anna (Thomas) Anna.

On April 18, 1953, she married Ronald Stoltz. He preceded her in death in 1992. On June 27, 1998, she married Robert Jack. He preceded her in death in 2011.

She was happiest serving her family. She loved to cook meals and pray for those she loved. Out of love for God, she gave to those she knew had needs with no expectation of recognition for herself.

She led a deeply spiritual life. Her Bible was well-worn and highlighted with her favorite verses. She lived a life of beautiful simplicity.

In her last years, she was always sure to express appreciation to anyone who cared for her. We will miss her beautiful smile and the life she lived.

She is survived by seven children, Debra Miller and her husband, Barry, Eric Stoltz and his wife, Cindy, Mark Stoltz and his wife, Sharon, Sally Wigfield and her husband, Greg, Harry Stoltz and his wife, Mary Beth “Biz,” Todd Stoltz and his wife, Beth and Stephen Stoltz and his wife, Billie Jo; three brothers, Edgar, Richard and Dennis Anna; three sisters, Kathleen Waksmunski, Connie Dubetsky and Linda Hoelman; 26 grandchildren; and 25 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by three brothers, Gerald, Robert “Bones” and Dan Anna and two sisters, Penny Bender and Mary Grace Strittmatter.

Friends will be received from 2 p.m. – 5 p.m. Sunday at the Baronick Funeral Home & Crematorium Inc. in DuBois.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. Monday at St. Michael the Archangel Roman Catholic Church with Fr. Paul Siebert as celebrant.

Burial will be in St. Mark’s Cemetery, Emporium.

Although flowers are appreciated, memorials may be placed with Christ the King Manor, 1100 W. Long Ave., DuBois, PA 15801 and or Penn Highlands Hospice, 100 Hospital Ave., DuBois, PA 15801 and or Guy and Mary Felt Manor Assisted Living, 110 E. Fourth St., Emporium, PA 15834.

Online condolences can be sent to www.baronickfuneralhome.com.

John Paul Scarpelli, 41, of Curwensville and formerly of Emporium, died Friday, Oct. 27, 2017 in Sugarloaf Township, Luzerne County.

He was born Jan. 2, 1976 in Alpena, Mich., the son of Sharon (Dombrowski) Scarpelli.  Mr. Scarpelli was a self-employed truck driver.

Surviving are his partner, Stacy L. (Allison) Scarpelli, as well as his two children, Madyson and Chanz Scarpelli, all at home.

He was preceded in death by his mother and a brother, Daniel Scarpelli.

There will be no public visitation.

A “Celebration of Life” Service will be held at 1 p.m. Nov. 11 at the Chester C. Chidboy Funeral Home Inc. of Curwensville.

Friends will be received from 12 p.m. – 1 p.m. Nov. 11 at the funeral home.

Online condolences may be made to the family at www.chidboyfuneralhome.com.

The Chester C. Chidboy Funeral Home Inc. of Curwensville is in charge of the arrangements.

Obituary Notice: Donald James Bannon (Provided photo)

Donald James Bannon, 92, a life-long resident of Osceola Mills and more recently of (North) Philipsburg, died Tuesday, Nov. 2, 2017 at Wynwood House at Greenhills, State College.

Born Aug. 18, 1925 in Tyrone, he was a son of James L. and Elizabeth M. (Eggeson) Bannon, both of whom preceded him in death.

He left high school early to serve with the U.S. Navy during World War II. Following the war, he returned to graduate from the (former) Philipsburg High School.

He was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Osceola Mills, for most of his life. While a member of Immaculate Conception, he served as a lector and as a Eucharistic Minister. 

He was a Third-Degree Member of the Knights of Columbus, Council No. 2250, and the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Post No. 5020, both of Osceola Mills. More recently, he was a member of Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church, Philipsburg. 

He was active in the Osceola Mills community and had previously served as a borough councilman and Little League coach.

He was employed with the former Philipsburg A&P Market. He would later work for the former Philipsburg Ames Department Store.

If he wasn’t working, he was an avid sports fan. He was a local high school sports fan, rooting for his children’s and grandchildren’s teams or his Penn State Nittany Lions.

However, his favorite pastime was working on countless home improvement projects and a meticulous devotion to his landscaping and yard work.  

He was married Feb. 7, 1948 in Philipsburg to the former Ann Christine (Tekely), who preceded him in death June 13, 2017.

He is survived by two sons, Gary Bannon and his wife, Sue (Townsend) of Harrisburg and Richard Bannon and his wife, Genya (Guillard) of Ramey and three daughters, Cynthia Murphy and her husband, Alan of Philipsburg, Teri Hudish and her husband, Daniel of Nazareth and Michelle Reno and her husband, Michael of Somerville, NJ.

He is survived by one sister, Beverly Bannon of Philipsburg; 15 grandchildren, Thomas Bannon, James Bannon, Julianne Brett and her husband, Darin, Robert Bannon and his wife, Paula, Benjamin Bannon and his wife, Lorri, Bethany Bannon, Jon Paul Bannon, Alissa (Murphy) Smethers and her husband, Joshua, Brittany Murphy, Lauren Murphy, Kevin Hudish, Jill Hudish, Molly Hudish, Seth Reno and Aubrey Reno; six great-grandchildren, Emerson and Arlowe Brett, Grace, Claire and Jack Bannon and Lillian Becker; and a number of nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by one sister, Hazel Gould.  

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Tuesday at the Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church, 400 S. Fourth St., Philipsburg, with the Rev. John Gibbons as celebrant.

Friends will be received from 5 p.m. – 8 p.m. Monday at the Beezer-Heath Funeral Home, 719 E. Spruce St., Philipsburg.

A Vigil Service will be held at 5 p.m. followed by the Recitation of the Rosary at 5:30 p.m., both on Monday at the funeral home.

Burial will be at Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Cemetery, RD Philipsburg. Military honors will be accorded by the Osceola Mills Honor Guard.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church, 400 S. Fourth St., Philipsburg, PA 16866.

Family and friends may sign the online guestbook and share memories at www.beezerheathfh.com.

A special thank you was given to the Wynwood House at Greenhills and Grane Hospice for the exemplary loving care they all provided to Mr. Bannon.

Brett Michael Bamat, 36, of RD Philipsburg died Monday, Oct. 30, 2017 in Morris Township, Clearfield County.

Born Nov. 10, 1980 in State College, he was a son of William Bradley “Brad” Bamat of State College and Patricia “Patty” L. (Couturiaux) Lynn of RD Philipsburg.

He was a graduate of the Philipsburg–Osceola Area High School. He was employed as a painter by trade. He previously served with the Pennsylvania National Guard, Hyde. He loved hunting and fishing in his spare time.

He was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather, Robert E. Couturiaux and his paternal grandparents, William and Barbara Bamat.

In addition to his parents, he is survived by two brothers, William Bamat and his wife, Sarah of Philipsburg and Timothy “Tim” Bamat and his wife, Valerie of Morrisdale; two nieces, Alaina Bamat of Philipsburg and Allison Bamat of Clearfield; one nephew, Easton Bamat of Clearfield; and his maternal grandmother, Betsy Jane (Price) Couturiaux of Philipsburg.

The funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Monday at the Beezer-Heath Funeral Home, 719 E. Spruce St., Philipsburg, with the Rev. Brenda K. Leigey officiating.

Friends will be received from 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. and from 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. Sunday and from 10 a.m. – 11 a.m. Monday at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Beezer-Heath Funeral Home, 719 E. Spruce St., Philipsburg, PA 16866.

Family and friends may sign the online guestbook and share memories at www.beezerheathfh.com.

John F. Coons, 63, of Clearfield died Friday, Nov. 3, 2017. Born Oct. 28, 1954, he was the son of the late Robert E. and Mary Jane (Danver) Coons.

He attended the Curwensville Area High School. He first worked at Berg Electronics and then at Fullington Auto Bus Co.

On Sept. 14, 1991, he wed the former Denise Coble, who survives.

He is also survived by two brothers and two sisters, Robert Coons and his wife, Connie, Richard Coons and his wife, Janet, Mary Jane Sherman and her husband, Bill, all of Curwensville, and E. Ann Jury and her husband, Butch of West Palm Beach, Fla.; a sister-in-law, Janet Coons of Clearfield; his father-in-law, Willard Coble of Clearfield; and mother-in-law, Thelma Thompson and her husband, John of Kent, Ohio; numerous aunts, nieces, nephews and cousins; and special family members, Anthony and Ronald Provost.

Mr. Coons was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, James and Michael Coons; and two nephews, Justin and Jarrod Sherman.

A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday at the Bennett & Houser Funeral Home Inc. with the Rev. Stephen L. Collins officiating.

The family will receive friends from 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home. They also will receive friends from 10 a.m. until the hour of services on Wednesday at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions can be made to Penn Highlands Clearfield Hospice, 757 Johnsonburg Rd., Suite 200, St. Marys, PA 15857 or Clearfield SPCA, 275 21^st St., Clearfield, PA 16830.

Online tributes can be made at www.bennettandhouser.com or www.mem.com.

Obituary Notice: Leonard Ray Mullen “Stampman” (Provided photo)

Leonard Ray Mullen “Stampman,” 78, of Clearfield went to be with the Lord on Thursday, Nov. 2, 2017 at UPMC East Monroeville.

He was born May 27, 1939, the son of the late Gerald and Eva (Snyder) Mullen. On June 17, 1960, he married Mona J. (Livergood) Mullen, who survives.

Retired, he had worked for Wal-Mart Transportation as a truck driver. He had previously worked for S&H Green Stamps for 21 years as a salesmen.

He was a member of the West Side United Methodist Church. He belonged to the Antique Automobile Club of America and Central Mountains Car Club. He had a special interest in trucks.

He was also a member of the BOP Elks 540, West Side Methodist men, Order of the Arrow and Scout Master Troop 1 for 14 years.

He is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Mona Mullen, and three sons, Scott A. Mullen and his wife, Karen of Lanse, Travis J. Mullen and his wife, Angela of Clearfield and Jason L. Mullen of Lakewood, Ohio.

He is survived by five grandchildren, Miranda (Kevin) Fusco, Mitchell (Heidi) Mullen, Ben Lukens, Zachary Mullen and Tyler Mullen and three great-grandchildren, Madison and Max Mullen and James Fusco.

He is also survived by six siblings, Connie Smith of Mineral Springs, Jack Mullen of Woodland, Shirley Killian of Johnstown, John Mullen and his wife, Judy of Shiloh, Lois Shimmel and her husband, Elwood of Palmerton, Pa., and Mert Mullen and Edith of Delaware.

Friends will be received from 10 a.m. until the hour of service, which will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday at the Bennett & Houser Funeral Home Inc. with the  Rev. Dr. Joleen Willis officiating. Burial will be in Crown Crest Cemetery.

Memorial contributions can be made to: West Side United Methodist Church, United Methodist Men.

Online tributes can be made at www.bennettandhouser.com or www.mem.com.

Obituary Notice: Robert M. Coulter (Provided photo)

Robert M. Coulter, 69, of Curwensville died Saturday, Nov. 4, 2017 at the Ridgeview Elder Care and Rehabilitation Center, Curwensville.

He was born April 28, 1948 in Morrisdale, a son of the late Robert L. and Florence M. (Pollic) Coulter.

Mr. Coulter was a self-employed logger, and he’d logged for more than 45 years.  He enjoyed riding motorcycles, camping and going for walks; he was also an avid reader.

He attended First Baptist Church, Curwensville, and was a veteran of the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam era.

He is survived by his wife, Ellen M. (Wilkinson) Coulter; a son, Michael L. Coulter and his wife, Tammy of Marysville; a granddaughter, Courtney Coulter; and two brothers, Patrick Coulter and his wife, Shirley of Spring Valley and Thomas Coulter and his wife, Mona of Hepburnia.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday at the First Baptist Church, Curwensville, with Rev. Daniel Osterhout and Pastor Scott Schultz officiating.  Burial will be in the Oak Hill Cemetery, Curwensville.

Friends will be received from 9 a.m. – 11 a.m. Wednesday at the First Baptist Church, Curwensville. 

The family suggests that memorial contributions be made to Curwensville First Baptist Church, Attn: Building Fund, P.O. Box 312, Curwensville, PA 16833 or to Faith Bible Church, 398 Grandview Rd., Curwensville, PA 16833.

The Kevin A. Beardsley Funeral Home, Curwensville, is in charge of arrangements. 

To sign the online guestbook, go to www.beardsleyfuneralhome.com.

Obituary Notice: Jess C. E. Neeper (Provided photo)

Jess Christian Elsworth Neeper, 51, of Hyde died Friday, Nov. 3, 2017 in Clearfield.

Born July 14, 1966 in Clearfield, he was the son of Howard and Mary (Rader) Neeper. 

He was a former emergency medical technician (EMT) for both Clearfield and Curwensville emergency medical services. He had worked for Bigler Boyz and also for Lowe’s of Clearfield. 

He was a life member of both the Lawrence Township Station 6, Hyde, and Clearfield volunteer fire departments. He was also a member of the Central District Volunteer Fireman’s Association.

He was wed to the former Marcella “Marcie” Kelly on April 25, 1992 in Hyde. She survives.

He is survived by his mother of Hyde and three children, Josh Neeper and his fiancée, Deedra Geer of Mahaffey and Marissa A. Neeper and Alyssa M. Neeper, both at home, as well as two granddaughters, Adelyn Peterson of Clearfield and Maddison Floyd of Woodland.

Also surviving are his siblings, twins Ronald L. Neeper and his wife, Polly of Hyde and Randal L. Neeper and his companion, Kathy Leigey of Clearfield and Theresa Treantafellou and Robert L. Neeper and his wife, Cindy, all of Hyde. 

He was preceded in death by his father.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday at the Chester C. Chidboy Funeral Home Inc. of Curwensville with Fireman Chaplain Gary B. Jewart officiating. Burial will be in the Bradford Cemetery in Woodland.

Friends will be received from 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. and from 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. Tuesday and from 10 a.m. – 11 a.m. Wednesday at the funeral home.

Contributions may be made to the family for his two younger children.

Online condolences may be made to the family at www.chidboyfuneralhome.com.

The Chester C. Chidboy Funeral Home Inc. of Curwensville is in charge of the arrangements.