Obituary Notice: Fred A. Redden (Provided photo)

Fred A. Redden, 79, of New Millport died Wednesday, July 20, 2016 at Penn Highlands DuBois Hospital.

Born Nov. 8, 1936 in Bells landing, he was the son of Ford and Rosa Jane (Whitten) Redden.

Mr. Redden had been the co-owner of the former Pete & Fred’s Barber Shop in Curwensville until 1971.

After that, he had worked for the former Piper Aircraft and the former Howe’s leather and then for the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation as a bridge foreman until his retirement in 1999.

He also co-owned Champion’s Choice Sports in Curwensville with his wife, Icie Redden.

He was a member of the Curwensville Loyal Order of Moose and of the former Curwensville Jaycees. He was named PennDOT’s “Man of the Year” two times.

On June 21, 1959 in New Millport, he wed the former Icie M. Thurston, who survives, along with four sons,  Rick R. Redden and his wife, Lisa and Fred E. Redden and his wife, Jill, both of Clearfield; Chris A. Redden and his fiancée, Tammy Newpher of Curry Run; and Scott L. Redden and his wife, Pam of New Millport.

Also surviving are five grandchildren, Nick Redden, Andrew Redden, Ashley Bortot and her husband, Kris, Raeleigh Redden and Makeeli Redden; a great-grandchild, Rylan Bordas; as well as a sister-in-law, Virginia Barrett of Bells Landing.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Glen and Delton “Bud” Redden; an infant sister, Verla Redden; and a great-grandson, Ezra J. Bortot.  He was the last member of his generation.

A “Celebration of Life” Service led by Mr. Roger Thurston will be held for Mr. Redden at 5 p.m. Sunday at the Chester C. Chidboy Funeral Home Inc. of Curwensville.

Friends will be received from 1 p.m. – 5 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home.

The family suggests contributions be made to the American Heart Association, Pittsburgh Metro Chapter, 444 Liberty Ave. Suite # 1300, Pittsburgh, PA 15222; the Arthritis Foundation, Central PA Chapter, 4811 Jonestown Rd., Suite # 230, Harrisburg, PA 17109; or Friends of the Curwensville Lake, P.O. Box 181, Curwensville, PA 16833-0181.

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.

Kenneth L. Reitz, 72, of DuBois died Friday, July 22, 2016 at Geisinger Medical Center in Danville.

Born Sept. 28, 1943, he was the son of the late Harry and Florence (Hoover) Reitz.

He was a veteran of the U.S. Army and served during Vietnam. He retired in 2005 as an optician and partner in Lens Tech after 17 years of service.  Prior to that, he worked for DuBois Optical for 36 years.

He was a member of the George D. Montgomery American Legion Post 17.  He enjoyed skiing, tennis and swimming.  He loved motorcycles and his cars.

He is survived by a sister, Donna Ishman of Brookville; a brother, Gary Reitz and his wife, Judy of Delray Beach, Fla.; numerous nieces and nephews and great-nieces and nephews; and five great-great-nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his long-time friend and caregiver, Bernie Knarr.

He was preceded in death by his sister, Nancy Duttry.

There will be no public visitation.

A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. Thursday, at the Goble-Baronick Funeral Home with Pastor Terry Felt officiating.

Full military honors will be accorded by the members of the DuBois Area Honor Guard from the funeral home.

Burial will be in Beechwoods Cemetery.

Memorials may be sent to the charity of the donor’s choice.

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

Obituary Notice: Richard F. Washek (Provided photo)

Richard F. Washek, 93, of Clearfield died Sunday, July 24, 2016 at UPMC Altoona Hospital.

Mr. Washek was born July 29, 1922 in Madera, the son of Jacob and Sadie (Bloom) Washek.

He was a graduate of the Clearfield High School and the California State Teachers College.

Mr. Washek taught woodshop and industrial arts at the Clearfield Junior High School until retiring after 35 years.

He was varsity basketball coach for Clearfield Junior High School. He was also a PIAA basketball official and had played for Riverside Motors, an independent basketball team.

Mr. Washek was a U.S. Army Air Force veteran who served in Europe and France during World War II.

He was a member of the Madera VFW where he served with the honor guard as Chaplin.

He was also a member of the Clearfield Lodge No. 314 F&AM for more than 60 years and the Central Mountains Region Car Club.

He was a member of the Grace United Presbyterian Church of Glen Richey.

Mr. Washek is survived by his wife, Mina Jean (Morgan) Washek, to whom he was married May 5, 1951 at the Curwensville Presbyterian Church and four sons, Jay Washek of Tempe, Ariz., Richard Washek of Atlanta, Ga., and Chris Washek and William J. Washek, both of Clearfield.
He was the last member of his generation and was preceded in death by his parents.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, at the Bennett & Houser Funeral Home Inc. of Clearfield with Commissioned Lay Pastor Leanne M. Peters officiating. Burial will be in Fruit Hill Cemetery.

Friends will be received from 5 p.m. – 8 p.m. Wednesday and from 10 a.m. – 11 a.m. Thursday at the funeral home.

The family suggests that memorial contributions be made to the charity of the donor’s choice.

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

Melessa A. “Lessa” Casteel, 54, of Treasure Lake, DuBois, died Sunday, July 24, 2016 at Penn Highlands DuBois surrounded by her loving family.

Born May 10, 1962 in Orlando, Fla., she was the daughter of Daniel M. Maslona of Murrells Inlet, SC and the late Delores (Wenix) Maslona.  She joined her in heaven, as her mother died one month prior, on June 24, 2016.

On Oct. 29, 1988, she married Scott B. Casteel. He survives.

She was the office manager at Casteel Chiropractic Center in DuBois for many years.

As many know, she loved the DuBois area and the people who lived in it.  She was actively involved in numerous organizations and activities in an attempt to make our community a better place to live.

She lit up any room she entered.  Her infectious smile, her outgoing personality and caring ways made you feel loved, welcome and important.  She not only will be missed by her loving family and friends, she will also be missed by everyone she met.

In addition to her husband, Scott, she is survived by her children, Palmer S. Casteel and Chloe A. Casteel; a brother, Michael Maslona and his wife, Tracy of Maryville, Tenn.; a sister, Micky Bubnik and her husband, Dan of DuBois; and cherished nieces and nephews.  She is also survived by her dog, “Jazzy.”

There will be no public visitation.

A private funeral service will be held on Saturday, July 30 at the Treasure Lake Church with Pastor Dick Whitaker officiating.

Her friends and family are invited for a celebration of her life at the DuBois Country Club on Saturday, July 30, between the hours of 3 p.m. and 5 p.m.

Although flowers are appreciated, the family requests that memorial donations be made to a charity of the donor’s choice in the DuBois area.

Online condolences can be made to www.gbfuneralhome.com.

The Goble-Baronick Funeral Home is in charge of Arrangements.

Melvin C. Smith, 88, of Brookville and formerly of DuBois, died Sunday, July 24, 2016 at the Jefferson Manor.

Born Dec. 6, 1927 in Clearfield, he was the son of the late Virginia (Green) Smith. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army for 20 years.

On May 23, 1970, he married Mary Lou (Meholick) Smith.  She preceded him in death on May 27, 2015.

He retired from the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board after 30 years of service.

He was a member of the James J. Patterson Post 813 and the George D. Montgomery Post 17 American Legion.

He is survived by a daughter, Melanie Kronenwetter of DuBois; a son, Allen C. Smith of Derry, NH; a brother, Oscar Smith of Clearfield;  and a sister, Evelyn Madezie of Canfield, Ohio.

There will be no public visitation.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, at the Goble Baronick Funeral Home with Pastor Mike Catanzarito officiating. Burial will be in Morningside Cemetery.

Memorials may be sent to the charity of the donor’s choice.

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

The Goble-Baronick Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.

Nicole Marie “Red” Kritzer, 27 of Morrisdale went to be with the lord on Monday, July 25, 2016 at Penn Highlands Clearfield.

Born Sept. 20, 1988 in Tyrone, she was the daughter of Wanda Kritzer and her fiancé, Randy Martin, Morrisdale and Richard Kritzer and his wife Amanda of Grampian.

Surviving are two daughters who loved their mommy, Kendra Jean Kritzer and McKenzie Lee Harbold, both of Morrisdale.

Also surviving are a brother, Ryan Kritzer of Morrisdale; a paternal grandmother, Mary Ann Kritzer of Olanta; and several aunts and uncles, all of whom loved her dearly.

She was preceded in death by her maternal grandparents, Melford and Norma Jackson Teats; her paternal grandfather, Richard Kritzer; and two uncles, Martin “Pole Cat” Teats and Michael Kritzer.

Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. Friday, at Holy Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church, Lanse, with the Rev. Robert J. Way officiating. Burial will be in Grassflat-Lanse Lutheran Cemetery, Grassflat.

Family and friends will be received from 11 a.m. until the time of service Friday at the church.

Memorial contributions may be made to: Wanda Kritzer, 1322 Deer Creek Rd., Morrisdale, PA 16858.

Strange & Weaver Funeral Home of Morrisdale is in charge of the arrangements.

Obituary Notice: Jean E. Stodart (Provided photo)

Jean E. Stodart, 84, of Sinking Spring died July 8, 2016 at Reading Hospital following heart surgery.

She was born Jan. 21, 1932 in DuBois to George F. and Mildred L. (Smith) Solley. She grew up in Curwensville near the entrance to the famous Bilger’s Rocks.

She attended a one-room schoolhouse along Anderson Creek Hill Road during the early years of her education.

Her best early memories were of playing at her grandmother Susanna Solley’s house and with her beloved neighbors, Buzz and Virgie Michaels.

She married Francis B. Stodart in Houtzdale in 1951 and they lived briefly in Niagara Falls, NY, before returning to her husband’s hometown of Madera, a place she dearly loved.

There, she was a volunteer election poll worker and a Girl Scout leader, and she cared for her parents, neighbors and in-laws and raised her family.  In October of 1992, she moved to Sinking Spring to be near her four children.

She is survived by her children, Diane T., wife of James Yarger; Marilyn L., wife of Donald Faughner; Kevin F. Stodart; and Hugh C. Stodart, all of Sinking Spring.

In addition, there are her grandchildren, Courtney N. and Jacob T. Stodart, and former daughter-in-law, Teresa Stodart of Olanta.  She is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews, including Linda Guerin and Sally Villar, all of Niagara Falls, NY, and her cat, Dollie.

She enjoyed her trip to Disney World in 1986, a fond memory that lasted her lifetime.  She loved animals and was a volunteer with Save A Yorkie Rescue.  She was a Methodist, an organ donor and a life-long Democrat.

She was preceded in death by her husband and her parents; her sisters, Ruth Avanell Bennett and Dorothy Lubert; and a nephew, Joe Conrad.

A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, at the Kruise-Spewock Funeral & Cremation Services Inc., Madera. Rev. Robert Ford will officiate.  Burial will follow in Immaculate Conception Cemetery, Madera.

Condolences may be made at www.kruise-spewock.com.

Marjorie L. McIntosh, 86, of DuBois died Tuesday, July 26, 2016 at Christ the King Manor.

Born April 21, 1930 in Beaver, Pa., she was the daughter of the late Charles and Eva May (Burger) Lindahl.

On May 28, 1948, she married Thomas W. McIntosh. He preceded her in death on Dec. 29, 2009.

Mrs. McIntosh was a past Girl Scout and Cub Scout Leader and a volunteer in the nursery of the Beaver Hospital.

She was an avid quilter and enjoyed reading and humor. But most of all, she enjoyed being with her family, especially her grandchildren.

She is survived by five children, Nancy L. McIntosh and Annette M. Smith, both of DuBois, Edward T. McIntosh and his wife, Loretta and Amy M. Snell and her husband, Jeffrey, all of Falls Creek, and Philip W. McIntosh and his wife, Jann of Charles Town, W.Va.; a sister, Sally Pugh of Collins, Ohio; nine grandchildren; 33 great-grandchildren; and six great-great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her sister, Nancy Pershing.

Mrs. McIntosh would like to say good-bye to the many friends she made at Christ the King Manor during her stay there.

There will be visitation from 4 p.m. – 8 p.m. Thursday at the Goble-Baronick Funeral Home.

A funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, at the funeral home with Pastor Dick Whitaker officiating. Burial will be in Morningside Cemetery.

Memorials may be sent to charity of the donor’s choice.

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

Obituary Notice: Ann M. Smeal (Provided Photo)

Ann Marie Smeal, 78, of Morrisdale, Graham Township, died Tuesday, July 26, 2016 at her residence, surrounded by her loving family.

Born July 4, 1938 in Curwensville, she was the daughter of the late Louis and Mary Elizabeth (Kula) Tkacik.

On Feb. 11, 1956 at St. Timothy’s Church in Curwensville, she wed Fred H. Smeal.   She was preceded in death by her husband on Oct. 14, 1993 and her daughter, Jacqueline Louise on Nov. 1, 2007.

She was also preceded in death by her parents; sister, Margaret Wiertel; and brothers, Edward, Ludvik and George Tkacik.

Surviving are her three children, Debra A. Smeal of Bellefonte, Sharon Camise and her husband, John of DuBois and F. Mike Smeal and his wife, JoAnne of Curwensville, five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Also surviving are her sisters and brother, Agnes Flanagan and her husband, Arden of Olanta, Madeline Mary and her husband, Walter of Sun City, Fla., and John Tkacik and his wife, Karen of Curwensville and numerous nieces and nephews.

Mrs. Smeal was a homemaker and very faithful to her Roman Catholic upbringing. She enjoyed life with family and friends.

She spent many recent years assisting and providing care to others. She enjoyed traveling, frequenting eateries and talking on the phone.

Her first out-of-the-house job was at a local family-owned eatery known as Hamer’s Restaurant.

She was recognized in retail as an Avon representative for more than 42 years. During that time, she was a leader in sales; she was also a member of the National Honor Society and of Avon’s prestigious President’s Club for Excellence in Service.

She was very well-known in the community. She was Judge of Elections for Graham Township for many decades and enjoyed the time spent at the election hall.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 1 p.m. Saturday at St. Timothy Roman Catholic Church, Curwensville, with the Rev. Father Mark J. Mastrian as celebrant.  Burial will be in the Crown Crest Memorial Park in Hyde.

The family suggests contributions be made to the charity of the donor’s choice.

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.

Richard D. “Dick” Dixon, 83, of North Philipsburg died Wednesday, July 27, 2016 at his residence.

Born Nov. 26, 1932 in West Decatur, he was a son of Eugene and Zella (Knepp) Dixon.

Mr. Dixon was a member of Grace United Methodist Church, Philipsburg, where he enjoyed volunteering and was a member of the fellowship committee. He was also a member of Reliance Fire Company.

He enjoyed hunting and fishing and was a little league coach for more than 30 years. His greatest joy was spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren who called him “Happy Pappy.”

He was a master grinder at Lee Metals until his retirement. A veteran of the U.S. Army, he served during the Korean War.

On June 13, 1953 at the former Evangelical United Brethren Church, Philipsburg, he married DeMaris (Braund) Dixon, who survives at home.

He is also survived by a daughter, Carla Dixon and her companion, Mike Catherine of Philipsburg and four sons, Richard Dixon and his wife, LuAnn and Darren Dixon and his wife, Lori, all of Philipsburg, Garman Dixon of Bangkok, Thailand, and Duane Dixon and his wife, Sharon of Avondale, Ariz.

Mr. Dixon is also survived by 11 grandchildren, Ethan, Travis, Sean, Shannon, Joshua, Rachel, Michael, Todd, Tobi, Kyle and Courtney and 10 great-grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by five brothers, Floyd, William, Russell, Vernon and Charles and seven sisters Virginia Fravel, Carmel Greenawalt, Alverta Vallalla, Katherine Williams, Grace Dunlap, Beatrice Smith and Velda Dixon.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday at the Grace United Methodist Church, Philipsburg, with the Rev. Michelle R. Bodle officiating.

Burial will follow at Reidy Cemetery, Wallaceton, where military honors will be conducted by the Moshannon Valley Independent Honor Guard.

Friends will be received from 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. and from 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. Friday at the David K. Dahlgren Funeral Home, Phillipsburg, and from 10 a.m. – 11 a.m. Saturday at the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Grace United Methodist Church, 912 E. Pine St., Philipsburg, PA 16866 or to the Clearfield County SPCA, 275 21^st St., Clearfield, PA 16830.

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

Obituary Notice: Mildred C. Pritchard (Provided photo)

Mildred C. Pritchard, 100, of Altoona died Tuesday, July 26, 2016 at her residence.

Born Nov. 17, 1915 in Ebensburg, Pa., she was the daughter of the late Hugh John and Alice Rebecca (Sharp) McCartney.

Mrs. Pritchard was a homemaker and a member of St. Catherine of Siena Roman Catholic Church in Duncansville, Pa.

On Aug. 15, 1933 in Cumberland, Md., she wed Gorman W. Pritchard, who preceded her in death on Oct. 22, 1978.

She was also preceded in death by her parents; a daughter, Thelma Snyder; two brothers, William J and James B.; and three sisters, Rose Marie, Loretta and Mary Ellen.

Surviving are three children, James H. Pritchard and Kathleen Judith Hoover and her husband, Richard, all of Altoona, and Wayne T. Pritchard of Washington, D.C.

Also surviving are 11 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren, five sisters,  Margaret Kovachick of Tampa, Fla., Veronica Lewis of Brush, Colo., Cecelia Looney of Pensacola, Fla., Louise Frederick of Cresson, Pa., and Lillian Lewis of White Bear Lake, Minn., and numerous nieces and nephews.

Services for Mrs. Pritchard will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday at the Good Funeral Home Alto Reste Park, Altoona, with the Rev. Msgr Robert J. Saly officiating.  Burial will follow in the Alto Reste Park in Altoona.

Friends will be received from 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. and from 7 p.m. – 9 p.m. Friday and from 9 a.m. – 10 a.m. Saturday at the Good Funeral Home Alto Reste Park.

The family suggests contributions be made to either the Blair County Home Nursing/Hospice Agency, 201 Chestnut Ave., Altoona, PA 16602 or St. Catherine of Siena Roman Catholic Church, P.O. Box 88, Duncansville, PA 16635.

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.

Joseph T. Marando, 89, of DuBois died Wednesday, July 27, 2016 at Christ the King Manor.

Born Aug. 24, 1926 in Pittsburgh, he was the son of the late Harry L. and Mary (Poulfka) Marando.

Mr. Marando was a veteran of the U.S. Navy where he served in World War II as a third-class machinist.

On Aug. 24, 1963, he married Esther M. Bojalad.  She preceded him in death in 1999.

He retired as an iron worker after many years of membership with the International Brotherhood of Iron Workers Local No. 772.

Mr. Marando was a member of St. Catherine of Siena Roman Catholic Church.

He was a member of the Knights of Columbus Council No. 519 and a fourth-degree member with Assembly No. 2661.

He was a member of the James J. Patterson Veterans of Foreign Wars No. 813 and the Independent, Political and Social Club. He was also the past Clearfield County chairman of the Pennsylvania Federation Sportsman Club.

Mr. Marando was also an avid Pittsburgh Pirates fan.

He is survived by his daughter, Mary Theresa Grecco of DuBois; two sisters, Mary L. Marando of DuBois and Gloria Paulinellie of Harrisburg; and one grandson, Thomas Grecco.

He was preceded in death by a brother, Harry L. Marando Jr.

Friends will be received from 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. Sunday at the Goble-Baronick Funeral Home.

A Scriptural Wake Service will be held at 12:30 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home with Msgr. Richard Siefer.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Monday at the St. Catherine of Siena Roman Catholic Church with Msgr. Richard Siefer as celebrant.

Burial will be in St. Catherine’s Cemetery where full military honors will be accorded by the members of the DuBois Area Honor Guard.

Memorials may be sent to DuBois Area Catholic Schools, P.O. Box 567, DuBois, PA 15801.

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

Obituary Notice: Howard E. Neeper (Provided photo)

Howard E. Neeper, 78, of Hyde died Wednesday, July 27, 2016 at Penn Highlands DuBois Hospital.

Born Oct. 27, 1937 in Clearfield, he was the son of the late Truman LeRoy and Violet Alethea (Lanich) Neeper.

Mr. Neeper started out working for the Edgar T. Henry Farm, which was followed by a stint at the Zimmerman Block Plant.

He later worked at the Michael Bears Farm in Spruce Creek and CCI Security in Clearfield. But he retired from Chapin and Chapin Construction as a truck driver.

He was a lifetime member of both the Hyde Volunteer Fire Company and the former Second Ward Volunteer Fire Company (now the Clearfield Fire Department).

He was a former member of the FOE Clearfield Eagles, and he always worked for the Clearfield County Fair. He enjoyed hunting and fishing.

On Oct. 1, 1959, he wed the former Mary E. Rader, who survives, along with five children, twins Ronald L. Neeper and his wife, Polly and Randal L. Neeper and his companion, Kathy Leigey, both of Clearfield, and Theresa Treantafellou, Robert L. Neeper and his wife, Cindy and Jess E. Neeper and his wife, Marcie, all of Hyde.

Also surviving are 11 grandchildren, two step-grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, two step-great-grandchildren and two sisters and a brother, May Irene Powers and her husband, Thomas of Mt. Airey, Md., and Violet Arlene Neeper and her companion, Blaine Billotte and Truman “Mike” Neeper Jr., both of Clearfield.

In addition, he is survived by a life-long childhood friend, Wilbur “Snooks” Lines, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Edward Neeper; and a grandson, Sean Ryan.

Funeral services for Howard Neeper will be held at 3 p.m. Saturday at the Chester C. Chidboy Funeral Home Inc. of Curwensville with Mr. Gary B. Jewart officiating.

Friends will be received from 12 p.m. – 3 p.m. Saturday at the funeral home.

The family suggests contributions be made to the Hyde Volunteer Fire Company, P.O. Box 246, Hyde, PA  16843-0246

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: Elsie R. Penny (Provided photo)

Elsie R. Penny, 97, of the Mountain Laurel Nursing & Rehabilitation Center, Clearfield, and formerly of Osceola Mills, died Monday, July 25, 2016 at the Mountain Laurel Nursing & Rehabilitation Center in Clearfield.

Born Dec. 17, 1918 in Decatur Township, she was the daughter of the late Elmer and Faith (Ibberson) Kephart.  She married James G. Penny on June 19, 1937 in Beccaria; he preceded her in death on March 23, 1978.

Mrs. Penny was a member of the Osceola Mills United Methodist Church.  She was a retired cafeteria employee of the Philipsburg-Osceola Mills Area School District and a 1936 graduate of the former Osceola Mills High School.  She enjoyed sewing and cooking.

She was a former member of the Osceola Mills Borough Council and the Philipsburg Chapter No. 387 Order of the Eastern Star.

She was a member of the Osceola Mills Civic Club, Osceola Mills Historical Foundation, Penn State Education Foundation, Friends of the Library, Osceola Mills Ladies Auxiliary of the Loyal Order of Moose and Ladies Auxiliary of the VFW Post No. 5020, Osceola Mills. She was also a charter member of the BPOE Philipsburg.

In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by a son, James R. Penny; two brothers, Gerald and Albert Kephart; and a niece, Marsha Pedrazzani.

She is survived by a daughter, Elizabeth A. “Betsy” Schnarrs and her husband, Harold of Allport; a son, Robert E. “Gene” Penny of Tampa Fla.; seven grandchildren; and 18 great-grandchildren.

The funeral service will held at 11 a.m. Saturday at the Heath Funeral Home & Cremation Services in Osceola Mills, with Pastor Jennifer C. Heikes officiating.  Burial will be at the Umbria Cemetery in Osceola Mills.

Friends will be received from 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. Friday and from 10 a.m. Saturday until the funeral time at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Osceola Mills United Methodist Church, 303 Curtin St., Osceola Mills, PA 16666 or the SPCA, 275 21st. St., Clearfield, PA 16830.

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

Obituary Notice: Douglas T. McLaughlin (Provided photo)

Douglas T. McLaughlin, 51, of Clearfield died Friday, July 22, 2016 at UPMC Altoona Hospital.

Mr. McLaughlin was born May 25, 1965 in Clearfield, the son of Irvin and Mary (Smeal) McLaughlin.

He was a member of the Centre Grove United Methodist Church. He loved growing a garden, playing his guitars and working on vehicles.

He is survived by a son and daughter, Shannon L. Swoope of Fredericksburg, Va., and Jessica D. McLaughlin of Curwensville; six grandchildren, Jonathan Thomas, Justen Crutchfeld, Jayden McLaughlin, Ajah Rose, Nathan Blair and Joshua Swoope; a brother, Scotty McLaughlin of Clearfield; and a number of nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and three brothers, Albert, Ernie and Eddie McLaughlin.

A Celebration of Life Service will be announced at a later date.

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

Kenneth E. Lukens, 87, of Chester Hill died Friday, July 29, 2016 at his home.

Born Sept. 23, 1928 at Philipsburg, he was a son of the late Arthur W. and Emma B. (Bergh) Lukens.

Mr. Lukens was a 1947 graduate of Philipsburg High School and received a certificate in construction management from Penn State.  He was self-employed as a carpenter and started his business, Lukens Kitchens.

He was a member of the First Lutheran Church Philipsburg.  Also, Mr. Lukens was a retired member of Carpenters Union Local No. 1333, a lifetime member of the National Rifle Association and a member of the Philipsburg Rod & Gun Club. He enjoyed woodworking, hunting and fishing.

On Aug. 14, 1950 at Winchester, Va., he married Goldie W. (Butterworth) Lukens, who died Oct. 31, 1997.

He is survived by two sons, Scott L. Lukens and his wife, Robin of Chester Hill and Kim A. Lukens and his wife, Stephanie of Cranberry Township and a daughter, Karen Phillips and her husband, Robert of Mississauga, Ontario.

He is also survived by a sister, Margery Hogue of Meadville; six grandchildren, Michael Irvin, Jessica Phillips, Justin Phillips, Eric Lukens, Amy Ford and Jennifer Lukens; and six great-grandchildren.

In addition to his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by seven brothers Evard, William, David, Haldane, Wilfred, Robert and Arthur Lukens and four sisters, Edith Zellers, Lois Lukens, Alma Frack and Evelyn Lukens.

Private funeral services will be held at the convenience of the family, and burial will be in Philipsburg Cemetery. There will be no public visitation.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Penn Highlands Clearfield Hospice, P.O. Box 992, Clearfield, PA 16830 or to the American Cancer Society, 26 S. Second St., Clearfield, PA 16830.

Arrangements are under the direction of David K. Dahlgren Funeral Home, 228 N. Centre St., Philipsburg, PA 16866.

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

On Saturday, July 30, 2016, God called another angel home when Joan F. Bracken, 68, of Philipsburg, died suddenly at home.

She was born April 18, 1948, a daughter of the late David F. and Tressa K. (Contadelucci) Lewis.

On June 24, 1966, in Cumberland, Md., she married Ronald J. Bracken, who survives at home. She was his true North, the light of his life and his soulmate.

She is also survived by a daughter, Janine K. Barony and her husband, Jim of Warriors Mark and two granddaughters, Kayla Rae and Kylie Jo Barony, both of Tyrone.

She is survived by one sister, Jean Schwiderske and her husband, Dan of Allport and two brothers, David Lewis of Curwensville and Charles Lewis of Topeka, Kan.

She is also survived by four nephews, Paul Schwiderske of Forest, Ryan Schwiderske of Allport and Thomas Earhart and Adam Lewis, both of Philipsburg; two nieces, Jill Wayland of Philipsburg and Rene Brown of Topeka, Kan.; and one great-nephew, Tanner Schwiderske of Allport. She loved them all beyond measure.

She was preceded in death by her parents; one sister, Eleanor Earhart; three nephews, Steven Earhart, Michael Lewis and Anthony Lewis; and one niece, Heather Lewis.

A 1966 graduate of Philipsburg–Osceola High School, she spent her working years as an insurance broker first for the Wayne Kelly Agency in Philipsburg and later for Helmbold & Stewart Agency in Philipsburg and Clearfield. She made countless friends during her career and took great pride in doing her job well.

She was a member of the New Life Center Church in Philipsburg, where she treasured each Sunday morning when she joined her church family for the service.

A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, at the New Life Center, 111 S. Second St., Philipsburg, with the Rev. John T. Dill, officiating.

Friends will be received from 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. and from 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. Tuesday at the Beezer-Heath Funeral Home, 719 E. Spruce St., Philipsburg, and from 10 a.m. – 11 a.m. Wednesday at the church.

Burial will be in Philipsburg Cemetery, Philipsburg.

Memorial contributions may be made to the New Life Center, P.O. Box 57, Philipsburg, PA  16866.

Online condolences may be submitted at www.beezerheathfh.com.

Obituary Notice: William John “Bill” Benamati (Provided photo)

William John “Bill” Benamati, 47, of Curwensville and formerly of Barnesboro, passed away in the loving arms of his wife on July 29, 2016 at the University of Maryland Medical Center, Baltimore, Md.

He was born Oct. 12, 1968, a son of Jean M. (Tomallo) Benamati of Northern Cambria and the late David V. Benamati.

He married his high school sweetheart, Julie M. Kline, on May 26, 1990 at St. Nicholas Roman Catholic Church, Nicktown.

He is survived by their three children, Alyssa Kate, Adam William and Ashton James, all of Curwensville.

He is also survived by a sister, Gina M. (Barry) Long of Penfield and a brother, Christopher R. Benamati of Northern Cambria; his mother- and father-in-law, John and Linda Kline of Nicktown; a brother-in-law, Matthew (Kathleen) Kline of Frostburg, Md.; three sisters-in-law, Kelly (Frank) Nicolini of Buford, Ga., Molly (Ritchie) Barlow of Hickory, NC and Lori (Johnathan) Rossio of Frederick, Md.; and several nieces and nephews.

He is also survived by his dear friend and “honorary” father, James H. Pritchard of Altoona and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his father on Nov. 24, 2007; his older brother, David R. Benamati on May 31, 2009; his paternal grandparents, Delmo B. and Mary A. Benamati; and maternal grandparents, John C. and Magdalena Tomallo.

He was Roman Catholic by faith, and had volunteered for several years as a religious education teacher at St. Timothy Catholic Church, Curwensville. He was also a first degree knight in the Knights of Columbus.

He was a 1986 graduate of Northern Cambria High School, a 1988 graduate of The Pennsylvania State University and a 1989 graduate of The Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science.

He began his career in funeral service as an intern at Spitler Funeral Home Inc. of Montoursville, Lycoming County.

He later joined Service Corporation International and served families for several years at the Bennett & Houser Funeral Home Inc. of Clearfield, where he was promoted to location manager of that funeral home and the Mohney –Yargar Funeral Chapel Inc. of DuBois.

Due to health complications, he retired from funeral service in 2013, but he continued to serve families on a casual basis at the Chester C. Chidboy Funeral Homes of Curwensville and Clearfield.

He was especially grateful to the Chidboy family for giving him the opportunity to continue being useful in funeral service despite his health challenges.

He was known for his professionalism, compassion and attention to details. He was a member of the Pennsylvania Funeral Directors Association and the Clearfield-Jefferson Funeral Directors Association.

He was a former board member of the Clearfield County United Way.

He was a gifted artist, with a talent for oil and acrylic paintings. Most of his art is hanging in his home with blue ribbons won at the Clearfield County Fair.

He was also a talented and gifted baker, as he crafted wedding and special occasion cakes since age 14, which eventually helped pay his way through mortuary school. His last wedding cake was crafted on May 28, 2016.

He was a former Curwensville T-ball coach and an enthusiastic supporter of the Curwensville Area High School Marching Band, Golden Tide Football and Golden Tide Golf Team. He also enjoyed traveling, particularly to any warm beach.

He was blessed to enjoy trips to Maui, Hawaii, with his wife in 2006 and again in 2015 to celebrate their 25th wedding anniversary. He was also an avid Penn State football fan and recently became a Pittsburgh Penguins hockey fan.

He received a simultaneous heart and liver transplant on Feb. 21, 2011, in Baltimore, Md., in his fight against familial amyloidosis. The generosity of his donor family provided him with almost six years more years of life with his beloved family.

He was a volunteer speaker for Donate Life Pennsylvania and the Center for Organ Recovery & Education.

The family will receive friends on from 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. Tuesday at the Bennett & Houser Funeral Home Inc., Clearfield, and from 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. Wednesday at the Moriconi Funeral Home Inc., 1303 Bigler Ave., Northern Cambria, where a Vigil Service will be held at 2 p.m.

A Funeral Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday at the St. Nicholas Roman Catholic Church, 1169 Alverda Rd., Nicktown, with the Rev. Fr. Michael Gabler officiating. Burial will follow at St. Nicholas Catholic Cemetery, Nicktown.

In lieu of flowers, Mr. Benamati requested memorial donations be made in his name for his family to CNB Bank, Attn. Jo Maines-Lowman, 1 S. Second St., Clearfield, PA 16830.

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

The Bennett & Houser Funeral Home Inc. of Clearfield is in charge of the arrangements.

Lee W. Thompson, 86, of Osceola Mills died Sunday, July 31, 2016 at his home.

Born Aug. 23, 1929 in West Decatur, he was the son of the late Lee and Bessie (Wood) Thompson.

He married Rhea J. (Grove) Thompson on March 29, 1947 in Osceola Mills. She survives at home.

Mr. Thompson was of the Christian faith and served in the U.S. Army.  He was retired from the former Piper Aircraft in Quehanna.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a daughter, Mary Louise Thompson; two sons, Robert Charles Thompson and Walter Lee Thompson; a granddaughter, Michelle Lee Thompson; and a son-in-law, Roy Quick.

He is survived by two daughters, Alice Quick of Morrisdale and Patricia Jury of Lamar and four sons, William E. Thompson and his wife, Cindy of Munson, David L. Thompson and his wife, Debra of Osceola Mills, Kenneth R. Thompson of Morrisdale and Todd A. Thompson and his wife, Brittany of Grampian.

He is survived by a brother, Raymond Thompson and his wife, Anna Mae of Morrisdale.  He is also survived by 16 grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren and six great-great grandchildren.

Memorial services will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday, at the Heath Funeral Home & Cremation Services in Osceola Mills, with Pastor Jennifer C. Heikes officiating.  Burial will be at the Umbria Cemetery in Osceola Mills.

Friends will be received from 1 p.m. Thursday until the funeral time at the funeral home.

Military honors will be accorded by the Osceola Mills Honor Guard at the funeral home at 2 p.m. Thursday.

Memorial contributions may be made to: Rhea J. Thompson, 412 Walker St., Osceola Mills, PA 16666.

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

Obituary Notice: Kendra Dawne Steele (Provided photo)

Kendra Dawne Steele, 26, of Morrisdale died Sunday, July 31, 2016 in Philipsburg.

Born Oct. 28, 1989 in Philipsburg, she was the daughter of George Steele of Virginia and Jackie Kopchik Wheeland of Morrisdale.

Along with her parents, she is survived by a brother, Kurtis Steele and his wife, Danae of Philipsburg.

Also surviving are her maternal grandparents, Joseph and Linda Kopchik of Morrisdale; her paternal grandmother, Virginia Steele of Virginia; and numerous aunts and uncles.

She was preceded in death by her paternal grandfather.

She was a 2007 graduate of West Branch High School. She had attended Penn State DuBois and most recently the School of Cosmetology in DuBois.

There will be no public visitation.

A public memorial service will be held at 3 p.m. Saturday, at the Summit Hill United Methodist Church, Morrisdale RD, with Pastor Tina Hawkins officiating.

The family suggests that memorial contributions be made to, Strange & Weaver Funeral Service, c/o Kendra D. Steele, P.O. Box 238, 171 Deer Creek Rd., Morrisdale, PA 16858.