Gamma Brothers No Longer With Us Arranged by Class Please let us know of any corrections. Tell Wayne Norris or Larry Kuzma or [email protected]
Brother Class Year Passed Notes
Chester Brogan 1936
Edward Camiolo 1936
Ralph Coulter
Emmett Graybill 2017 GRAYBILL, Emmett Davies Jr., passed away December 25, 2017. He was predeceased by his sister, Barbara. Emmett was born on November 1, 1931, in Massillon, Ohio, to the Honorable Emmett Davies Graybill and Dorothy Bankerd Graybill. He graduated from Kenyon College in 1954, where he was a member of the Alpha Delta Phi fraternity. He earned a master's degree from Ohio State University, taught briefly at Allegheny College, and then joined Clarion University of Pennsylvania as a professor of Political Science. Upon retirement, Emmett moved to Richmond, Virginia, where he explored the rich history of the city, refinished furniture, and enjoyed the arts. He continued to share his love of history as a docent for Wilton House Museum and an instructor at Open University. Emmett was full of life, opinions, knowledge and humor. He touched all whom he encountered and was much beloved. He will be deeply missed by those fortunate enough to have met him and call him friend. He is survived by nephews, David L.Titus (Polly) and Richard E. Titus (Jane); niece, Gale Morrison; and six grand- nephews and grand-nieces. Eugene Pifer
Chuck Ross
James Sandrock
Willard Shreffler
Fred Their
Paul Vangura 1994
10 Death(s) are 2.72% of Total
Albert Chitester 1930 1965 Albert H. Chitester 57. af 321 W. Washington St., died at home at 4:30 a.m. Friday following an illness of one year. Mr. Chitester was born at Brookville on March 12. 1908, a son of the late Robert and Lulu Switzer Chitester and attended schools in Brookville. After graduating from the Brookville High A CHITES he attended the Clarion State Teachers College, graduating with honors in 1934. Before becoming associated with the Bradford schools in 1944, he had taught in the Port Allegany school system. Mr. Chitester was active in civic affairs and also in sports. Back in the late 1940‘s he was named as the business manager if the Bradford Blue Wings of the Pennsylvania-Ontario-New York Baseball League. He was a member of the First Methodist Church, where he also taught Sunday School, and was treasurer of the Boy Scout movement of the church. On April 28, 1937, in Bradford, he was married to the former Florence Fessenden. Besides his wife, Mr. Chitester is survived by a daughter. Miss Doris Sue Chitester. at home; a son, Harold Lee Chitester, a teacher in the Phillips- burg N. .1 , High School; one grandchild; three sisters, Mrs. 'lair Johns of Bradford. Mrs William Rhodes of Erie, and Mrs Mildred Michaels of Brookville; four brothers. Howard and Stanley of Brookville. Palmer of Coudersport, and Leonard Chitester of Colorado Springs. Colo., and several nieces and nephews. Wayne Fulton 1930 2001 Brother of Ralph Fulton and Uncle of Ed and Gail. Wayne was older, but became a Gamma a little later than Ralph. I spoke to Wayne a few times on the phone and was impressed with his sharp mind in remembering events of the Gammas during his era. Wayne donated $50.00 to our Scholarship fund just before he passed on. George Gifford 1930 Unknow
Sherman Horne 1930 Unknow
Gilbert Hoyt 1930 Unknow
Monday, January 18, 2021 Page 1 of 56 Brother Class Year Passed Notes
Fred Mller 1930 Unknow
Robert Powers 1930 2000
Ralph Thomas 1930 Unknow
8 Death(s) are 2.17% of Total
Ralph Fulton 1931 2001 Father of Dr. Gail Grejda and father-in-law of Brother Dr. Edward Grejda. Ralph was an early member of the Gammas and lived his retirement years in Bradenton Florida. He is survived by his wife Virginia. Ralph was very helpful in outlining early Gamma history and identifying some Brothers from his era. When Clarion’s President Diane Reinhard paid him a visit, he greeted her at the door with his Gamma shirt that Ed Gredja had sent to him. Sam Schettino 1931 Unknow
Victor Vassia 1931 Unknow
3 Death(s) are 0.82% of Total
Joseph Kata 1932 1973 Secondary Education ... Joe Kata was an outstanding three-sport athlete at Clarion University and went on to great accomplishments following graduation ... At Clarion he started on both the offensive and defensive lines for four years (1928-31) ... Joe was captain of the 1931 football team ... He also lettered in basketball and baseball, was President of Student Government, on the Clarion Call and Sequelle staffs, and a member of the Varsity “C” Club ... A native of Ambridge, Pa., Joe went on to coach football at New Bethlehem and led his teams to undefeated seasons in 1940, 41 & 42, including a 37-game winning streak ... Following WWII he had another undefeated season in 1948 ... Joe was principal at N-B/Redbank Valley from 1950-61 and Superintendent from 61-73 ... He was President of the PIAA for 13 years ... Joe died in 1973 and is survived by his wife Verna Kata of New Bethlehem. John Mochnick 1932 2001 Retired Administrator from the Penn Township School district. One of the original members of the Alpha Gamma Phi Fraternity started in 1930. John was 92 yrs. old when he passed on and had large influence on the local area as an educator; administrator and local historian. John received many awards for his efforts and will be remembered by all as a great man. One Brother who was influenced positively was Brother Robert Poth who relayed to me that John was responsible for his attending Clarion which proved to be his foundation for future rewarding benefits. Jim Sinclair 1932 Unknow
William Slattery 1932 Unknow
Russell Switzer 1932 Unknow
Kenneth Williams 1932 Unknow
Thomas Wilson 1932 2014 Tom Wilson, Bradenton, FL passed away in 2014. Tom was from Sigel, PA and graduated from Brookville High School.
He graduated in 1932 with a degree in Secondary Education. While at Clarion he was Travel Club President, member of the Outdoor Club, Varsity "C" Club President. Football Manager, member of YMCA and Class Vice President.
Most importantly he was a founding member of the Alpha Gamma Phi class of 1932. 7 Death(s) are 1.90% of Total
Daniel Coleman 1933 Unknow
Darrell Dovenspike 1933 Unknow
Jewell Moore 1933 Unknow
William Russell 1933 Unknow
Charles Sayers 1933 Unknow
Blair Schuckers 1933 Unknow
Monday, January 18, 2021 Page 2 of 56 Brother Class Year Passed Notes
Charles Sherrieb 1933 Unknow
Albert Snyder 1933 Unknow
Merrill Snyder 1933 Unknow
George Startzel 1933 Unknow
William Stewart 1933 2007
James Sweeny 1933 Unknow
John Truby 1933 2009
Paul Van Dyke 1933 2000
14 Death(s) are 3.80% of Total
Percy Bartlow 1934 1997
James Cassel 1934 Unknow
Charles Frederick 1934 Unknow
Eugene Hartman 1934 Unknow
Norbert Master 1934 2002
Maurice Moffatt 1934 Unknow
6 Death(s) are 1.63% of Total
Tryus Bartley 1935 Unknow
Leo Brown 1935 Unknow
Ralph Castafero 1935 2007
Robert Heverly 1935 1991
Emil Rosenzweig 1935 Unknow
Willard Simpson 1935 Unknow
Samuel Wilheim 1935 1996
7 Death(s) are 1.90% of Total
Carl Bean 1936 2012
Bryon Gilfillan 1936 Unknow
George Hess 1936 2000
Thomas Hosack 1936 Unknow
Joseph Kenny 1936 Unknow
5 Death(s) are 1.36% of Total
William Byers 1937 Unknow
Charles Hetrick 1937 Unknow
Monday, January 18, 2021 Page 3 of 56 Brother Class Year Passed Notes
Zeigy Kunczewski 1937 Unknow
Marcus Priester 1937 Unknow
Charles Reed 1937 Unknow
Richard Sloan 1937 Unknow
6 Death(s) are 1.63% of Total
Edward Jacobs 1938 2000
Theodore McDonald 1938 Unknow
Edward Schierberl 1938 1995
Bronie Smolak 1938 Unknow
4 Death(s) are 1.09% of Total
Joseph Andreo 1939 Unknow
Paul Griffin 1939 Unknow
John Sershen 1939 Unknow
Paul Trunk 1939 Unknow
Harry Wozniak 1939 Unknow
5 Death(s) are 1.36% of Total
Albert Andreo 1941 1996 9 Nov 1996 William Bratkovich 1941 2007
Leo McDonald 1941 2006
Robert McKenzie 1941 2008 Clarion Grad of l937/'4l. I played basketball with Wesley Freeman although I did know he was from the Erie area. I was also a B-24 Pilot but did my 35 mission tour in the European Theater out of England. I was not a super athlete, but I did letter in 3 sports, football, basketball and tennis. My football was limited to my freshman year as I suffered a serious knee injury. In successive years I did some scouting of teams we were to play. I don't know how I came by it, but I think I have the l930 pic that you show. If so, I only know 2 of the members on it. One was Gilbert Hoyt with whom I did my practice teaching at Clarion JR high and he was also faculty advisor of the Gammas while I was in School along with Dr Pierce. Another member in the pic was Ralph Sweitzer of Youngsville, Pa. He was my social studies teacher in Otto High School, a small consolidated school 10 miles out of Bradford. He then became Principal and later Superintendent until his retiremnt. He was also honored by naming the street where he lived, "Sweitzer Drive". Although he did attend Clarion, I think he graduated from Grove City. After Clarion, I taught in St Petersburg, PA for 1 year and then spent 5 years in the Air Force. Following that I worked for the Air Lines on the ground for 10 years. I eventually got back into teaching in Jamestown, NY and retired from there as a School Counselor in 1985. My wife is an E. Stroudsburg Grad and also retired as a School Counselor in '85. During my school tenure, I also served two terms on the Board of Directors of the National Education Association. Since then we have spent our summers in Jamestown and wintered in our condo at Cape Canaveral. This winter and to date, due to my wife's condition, we are living in an assisted living facility on a trial basis in Merritt Island, about 20 min from our condo at the Cape. Whether we stay here permanently remains to be seen. Joseph O'Brien 1941 1995
Kenneth Rodgers 1941 2001
6 Death(s) are 1.63% of Total
Monday, January 18, 2021 Page 4 of 56 Brother Class Year Passed Notes
Claude Bole 1942 1994
Stephen Kovalyak 1942 2000
Clyde Pence 1942 2013
Andrew Sevok 1942 1943 Killed in action 4 Death(s) are 1.09% of Total
James Buzard 1943 1991
Wesley Freeburg 1943 2016 Wesley C. Freeburg, 96, formerly of Albion, Pa., passed away on April 3, 2016, in Country Meadows, Bethlehem. Wes “Nurmi” Freeburg was a talented multi-sport athlete at Clarion from 1939-42. Freeburg earned 11 varsity letters at Clarion in football, basketball, baseball and tennis. In football he was described in the “Sequelle” yearbook as a “one of the most brilliant defensive ends in Clarion history”. Moved to running back his senior year, Freeburg was also quality punter and a team captain. In basketball he was a starter for several years, and although known as a strong defensive player, led the team a number of games in scoring. In baseball Wes was a pitcher and outfielder who excelled at both positions recording wins on the mound and powering home runs at the plate. He was also recruited to play for the tennis team by Waldo Tippin. A native of Erie, Pa. and a 1939 graduate of Mill Creek (now McDowell) high school, he returned to the Erie area after WWII and was a teacher at Albion (Northwestern) high school until his retirement in 1977. He coached football, baseball, track and was the j.v. basketball coach at different times at Albion (Northwestern). A resident of Albion, Pa., Wes and wife Marge have two daughters Linda and Johanna.
He was the husband of the late Marjorie E. (Stewart) Freeburg who passed away on February 6, 2016. Wesley was born on November 1, 1919, in Erie, Pa. He was the son of the late Andrew and Florence (Carver) Freeburg.
Wesley was a Jr. High Teacher for 35 years before retiring at Northwestern Jr.-Sr. High School, Albion.
He proudly served as a Pilot in the Army Air Corp., during WWII. Wesley earned his Bachelor's degree at Clarion State University, where he was inducted into the Clarion Athletic Hall of Fame and was lettered in three sports. He was a member of the Grace United Methodist Church, Albion, Pa. Welsey enjoyed coaching high school football, baseball and basketball. His passion was sailing, he absolutely loved it.
Wesley is survived by two daughters, Lynda Freeburg Codega of Columbia, S.C. and Johanna Freeburg Geider and her husband, Steven Geider of Nazareth, Pa., and a daughter-in-law, Helen Crane Freeburg Arguello of Crownsville, Md. He is also survived by seven grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by a son, Wesley Carver Freeburg, Jr., a great-grandson, Noah Riley Freeburg, a sister, Betty Von Buseck, and son-in-law, James Codega.
Burial with military honors took place on Friday, April 15, 2016, at 1:30 p.m. in the Indiantown Gap National Cemetery, Annville, PA. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Alumni Association Athletic Scholarship, of Clarion University, 840 Wood St., Clarion, PA 16214. Willaim Solonchak 1943 1975
Robert Stroupe 1943 1997
4 Death(s) are 1.09% of Total
John Chuldenko 1946 1945 Killed in action WW II 1 Death(s) are 0.27% of Total
James Arner 1947 2003
John Tile 1947 2002
Monday, January 18, 2021 Page 5 of 56 Brother Class Year Passed Notes
2 Death(s) are 0.54% of Total
William Crissman 1948 2017
James Helmintoller 1948 2010 27 Feb 2010 Published in Butler Eagle from March 1 to March 2, 2010 James Richard 'Dick' Helmintoller, ex-A-C Valley official James Richard "Dick" Helmintoller, 86, of Route 58, St. Petersburg, Clarion County, a well-known retired teacher, coach, athletic… Gordon Sills 1948 2006 Gordon Sills passed away in Tonawanda, New York on March 10, 2006. Beloved husband of Annabelle H. (nee Thompson); dear father of Bonnie (Mark) Mamizuka, Jeffrey (Dana) Sills, Gregory Sills and Kathleen (Paul) Nesper. Grandfather of 8 grandchildren. Brother of the late Mabel Sills, Irene (Robert) Jackson, and Myles Sills. Also survived by nieces and nephews. Robert Zelechoski 1948 2019
4 Death(s) are 1.09% of Total
Ralph Blewitt 1949 2010
John Brennan 1949 2006
George Kuhn 1949 2007
James McKinley 1949 1991
C Ramsden 1949 1990
Lynn Rhodes 1949 2008 Retired principal in the Tucson AZ school district
Halley Willison, Jr 1949 2011 Halley O. "Doc" Willison, Jr., 85, of Indiana, died Wednesday, Feb. 9, 2011 at the Village House at St. Andrew's Village.
A son of the late Halley O. Willison Sr. and Alice Adams Willison, he was born September 15, 1925 in Sewickley. Mr. Willison attended Quaker Valley High School, completed his undergraduate work at Clarion University and his graduate work at the University of Pittsburgh.
He was a high school and college basketball player, earning hall of fame honors at Quaker Valley and Clarion University.
He taught for 16 years at Quaker Valley High School and for 15 years he taught in the mathematics department at Indiana University of Pennsylvania.
He was a member of Grace United Methodist Church, where he sang in the church choir. He was also a member of the Sprucemen Barbershop Quartet and a committee member for Grace Manor.
Surviving are by two children, Donald J. Willison and wife, Judy, of Milton, Wisc. and Anne Nelson and husband, Jim, of Pittsburgh; a brother, Gary Willison of Standish, Maine; six grandchildren, Nicholas Tverdosi, Andrew Tverdosi, Michelle Tverdosi, Bonnie Willison, Robby Willison and May Willison and numerous nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Jean Wick Willison.
Interment was in Greenwood Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, Indiana Unit, 320 Bilmar Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15205-4620. 7 Death(s) are 1.90% of Total
Harry Allen Askey 1950 1991
Jack Bittner 1950 1999
Monday, January 18, 2021 Page 6 of 56 Brother Class Year Passed Notes
Edward Blockowicz 1950 2017 Age 90, of Catonsville, MD (Charlestown Retirement Community), formerly of Rockville, MD, passed from this life on January 31, 2017, at Gilchrist Hospice Center in Columbia, MD. He was the beloved husband of Margaret (Patsy) Blockowicz (Stapinsky), his wife of 63 years. Edward was born July 30, 1926, in Morgan, PA to Julia (Rakoczy) and Joseph Blockowicz. He served in the United States Army in both World War II and the Korean Conflict and received an honorable discharge after both enlistments. After his service, he attended Clarion State Teachers College where he also played football and then obtained his Master's in Education at the University of Pittsburgh. He and Patsy were married June 6, 1953. He taught biology at McDonald High School in McDonald, PA where he also coached football before moving to Rockville, MD to raise his family while teaching and coaching football at Woodward High School in North Bethesda, MD and for Montgomery County, MD Schools until he retired from teaching in 1988. After his retirement, Ed and Patsy enjoyed traveling with the retired teachers. They vacationed in New Smyrna Beach, FL every winter for 20 years with friends. He also enjoyed golf and worked as a starter at Needwood Golf Club in Montgomery County, MD as well as a scorekeeper and referee for county softball and basketball games for many years. He loved sports and enjoyed watching his grandchildren play as well. He was an avid Pittsburgh Steelers fan. He and Patsy moved from Rockville, MD to Charlestown Retirement Community in 2015. Ed was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather and great- grandfather. In addition to his wife, Ed is survived by daughters, JoAnn Santmyer (Garry) of Mount Airy, MD, Judith McNamara (Peter) of Ellicott City, MD; and son, Joel Blockowicz (Veronica) of Potomac, MD. Ed was known as "Dziadzi" (Judgie) to his treasured eight grandchildren, Kyle Santmyer (Allissa) of Conway, SC, James Santmyer of Mount Airy, MD and Ryan Santmyer of Myrtle Beach, SC, Lauren (McNamara) Hollinger (Aaron) of New York, NY, William McNamara of Carlsbad, CA, Joel Blockowicz, Jr. of New York, NY, Margot Blockowicz (d) and Anna Blockowicz of Potomac, MD; and two great-grandchildren Lucas Santmyer and McKinley Santmyer. Ed is also survived by his three sisters, Genevieve Chatowski of Bridgeville, PA, Celeste Stasiowski of Carnegie, PA, and Loretta Miller of Clearwater, FL; and many nieces and nephews. John Bove 1950 1989
William Casper 1950 1995
Steve DelPero 1950 1999
George Derk 1950 1999
Joe Devey 1950 1993
Robert Flath 1950 2014 "Mope" comes from Greensburg, PA 22 years old, 6 feet tall and weighs 210. Played guard on the football team and also an outstanding wrestler. Won STC heighweight championship in 1946. William Gargano 1950 2005
Frank Grubbs 1950 2013
F M Jones 1950 2003
John Robert Kerr 1950 2010 ERIE – John R. Kerr, 86, a resident of Wesbury United Methodist Retirement Home for the past five years, and a former resident of Cochranton, died Saturday, March 6, 2010, at the Hamot Medical Center in Erie. Born November 8, 1923, in Kingsville, Clarion County, he was the son of the late William I. “Nate” and Josephine V. Keck Kerr
Monday, January 18, 2021 Page 7 of 56 Brother Class Year Passed Notes
C. Thomas Komisak 1950 2012 Brother C. Thomas "Muskie" Komisak, Class of 1950 passed away Wednesday, Sept. 26, 2012.
He was born May 31, 1926, the son of the late Charles and Elizabeth (Kolesar) Komisak. Tom graduated from Greensburg High School in 1944 and was a 1950 graduate of Clarion State Teacher's College.
He served in the Navy during World War II on the U.S.S. Bingham. He was married his loving wife, Eleanor (Mizikar) Komisak, on Aug. 22, 1951. He was employed as a school teacher for 35 years. The first seven years of which were in Oil City and the final 28 years were at Hempfield Area Senior High School in Greensburg.
During his career, he also served as a football coach, golf coach and driver's education instructor. Tom was a volunteer manager and coach for a championship West Point Little League Baseball team. He was a social member and volunteer at the West Point Vol. Fire Department and also volunteered with Meals-on-Wheels.
Tom was a member of Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church in Greensburg.
Some of his favorite hobbies included fishing, especially for trout and muskie, and playing golf in the Westmoreland Senior Men's Golf League at Cloverleaf Golf Club.
He is survived by his loving wife, Eleanor; sister, Mary Kazmir, of Tennessee, sister, Roseann Polet, of Colorado, and sister, Patricia Marchiando, of Texas; also survived by his children: son, Thomas and his wife, Marlene, of Steubenville, Ohio, son, Terence and his wife, Juanita (Johni), of Long Beach, Calif., son, David and his wife, Nancy, of Toccoa Ga., daughter, Pamela DiNardo, of Pittsburgh, son, Timothy and his wife, JoAnn, of Latrobe, and son, John and his wife, Michelle, of Lapeer, Mich.
Services will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, 29 Sep, in Our Lady of Grace Church, 1001 Mt. Pleasant Road, Greensburg. Everyone please go directly to the church. Interment will follow at Westmoreland County Memorial Park where VFW Post 33 will perform full military honors.
Monday, January 18, 2021 Page 8 of 56 Brother Class Year Passed Notes
Frank Lignelli 1950 2019 Frank "Ligg" Lignelli, Jr. passed away on September 1, 2019 at UPMC Northwest following a period of declining health. He was 94 years of age.
Frank was born on April 26, 1925 in East Monongahela, Washington County, PA, the son of the late Francesco and Domenica (Pascarella) Lignelli. His parents emigrated from Italy in the early 1900s. There were 8 children in the family; all his siblings have preceded Frank in death. He was the last surviving member of his family.
On November 21, 1949, he married the former Joyce R. Simpson, who survives. Together they enjoyed nearly 70 years of marriage, building a home, raising their children and enjoying life around the Clarion community and college.
After graduating from Monongahela High School in 1943 he served in the U.S. Navy during World War II in the Mediterranean and the Pacific aboard a mine sweeper. He came to Clarion in the Fall of 1946 and the rest is history. As a student athlete Lignelli earned 11 varsity letters including 4 in wrestling and football and 3 in baseball. A center & linebacker in football, wearing #78, he was named to the “Little All-America” team among other awards. A wrestler at 175-pounds, he spent the last two years as student coach. In baseball he led the team in hitting his senior year with a .462 average. And he was a Gamma!
Upon graduating from Clarion in 1950, Lignelli then spent a year teaching at North Versailles Elementary, then taught and coached at Monongahela High from 1951-57. He was assistant football coach 5 years and head coach 1 year, plus head soccer coach 6 years. His soccer teams won the WPIAL Championship in 1956 and 1957.
In 1957, he returned to his alma mater to revitalize Clarion’s wrestling program as head coach. In the 1959-60 season and in 7 years was 69-12 in dual meets, plus won the school’s first PSAC title in 1965. He also coached the golf team for 10 years (1977-86) and led Clarion to the PSAC title in 1982 and NAIA D-18 crowns in 1982 and 83.
Frank spent 37 years devoted to Clarion University. He succeeded Waldo S. Tippin as Athletic Director in the Fall of 1966 and was the Golden Eagles Athletic Director from 1966-90. He led Clarion to unprecedented athletic success as the #1 Athletic Department in the PSAC and recognized nationally among the elite athletic programs.
With Lignelli as Clarion’s A.D. the Golden Eagles won 59 PSAC titles, 12 national championships, and countless PSAC-West and PSAC runner-up honors. During that time the football team was 165-73-3 (68%), while NCAA Division I Wrestling was 301-107-2 (74%) and men’s basketball posted a 352-257 (58%) mark. Football won 4 PSAC and 7 PSAC-West crowns, basketball captured 8 PSAC-West titles and wrestling won 9 PSAC titles and placed in the top 15 at D-I nationals 7 times. Clarion’s success was widespread as Women’s Gymnastics won Division I team titles in 1977 and 78, women’s swimming and diving won 8 Division II national championships and 15 straight PSAC titles, while men’s swimming and diving won 19 straight PSAC crowns and placed as one of the top teams at nationals nearly every season.
He was active on campus in a variety of capacities. Lignelli was Director of Housing, Dean of Men, Financial Aid Director and more from 1960-66. An active community member, he served as President of Kiwanis, on the Clarion Hospital Board, Borough Council, and Board of Directors of the Clarion Chamber of Commerce. He was also instrumental is starting the Clarion Little League. Lignelli also started the “Quarterback Club” in 1966 as a generator of funds for football. He also started to raise money for scholarships following 1966 and was the driving force behind the Centennial Scholarship Fund started in 1967. The name was changed to the W.S. Tippin Scholarship Fund in 1974-75 which remains today. Lignelli raised well over a million dollars for general athletic scholarships.
Frank is survived by his wife, Joyce; his children, Joy Lynne Lignelli of Pittsburgh, and Frank Lee Lignelli of San Francisco; along with numerous nieces and nephews.
Memorial donations may be made in Frank's honor to the Frank Lignelli Scholarship Fund at the Clarion University Foundation, 840 Wood St., Clarion PA 16214 (https://alumniandfriends.cuf-inc.org/), the First United Methodist Church, 600 Wood Street, Clarion PA 16214 (www.fumc-clarion.org), or the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, Western PA & West Virginia Chapter, River Walk Corporate Center, 333 E. Carson St., Suite 441, Pittsburgh PA 15219 (www.lls.org).
Arrangements are under the care of the Goble Funeral Home and Crematory, 330 Wood Street in Clarion where visitation will be held on Thursday 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. An additional visitation will be held at the First United Methodist Church, 600 Wood Street in Clarion on Friday 12:00 noon to be followed by a celebration service of Frank's life at 1:00 p.m. Military honors will be accorded at that time by the Funeral Honor Guard of American Legion Post 66, Clarion. Rev. Arnie Rhodes will be the officiant. Interment will be in the Clarion Cemetery.
Monday, January 18, 2021 Page 9 of 56 Brother Class Year Passed Notes
Norge Luvison 1950 2016
Robert MacBeth 1950 1996
Tony Mason 1950 1994
Robert Moore 1950 2015
John Palaggo 1950 2002
John Panciera 1950 2011 John (Penny) Panciera, 86, passed peacefully away on Sunday, July 17, 2011, in his home at Conneaut Lake.
He was born Jan. 6, 1925, in St. Charles, a son of the late John Anthony and Clara Isabelle Cresswell Panciera.
After serving in the U.S. Merchant Marines and U.S. Fifth Army during World War II, he returned home to New Bethlehem and worked for Crawford Furniture and Keystone Salt Company.
Penny enjoyed a very rich life. He enjoyed writing poetry, cooking, hunting, fishing and public speaking.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and a sister, Patricia Kundick.
Surviving are his wife, Diane Kahle Panciera of Conneaut Lake; his son, Joel, and wife, Susan; his son, Mark, and wife, Cheryl; his sisters, Elva Vanderveen and Kay Lucas; his brother, Harold (Bunk) Panciera; and his prized grandchildren, Luke, Anne and Jacob Panciera. Frank Pecoro 1950 2015 Mr. Frank J. Pecora, 89, of 62 Orchard Street, Canajoharie, New York died Monday, June 29, 2015 at Wells Nursing Home in Johnstown.
Born on April 6, 1926 in Bradford, PA, he was the son of Louis Pecora and Amelia Brown Pecora. He was a graduate of St. Bernard High School and a graduate of Clarion State Teacher's College in Pennsylvania, Class of 1950. He then received his Master's in Elementary Education from Oneonta and continued his ongoing education at Cornell University, working his way towards a PhD.
Upon graduation from High School, Mr. Pecora joined the US Navy, serving in World War II.
Mr. Pecora started his teaching career at VanEtten Central School, where he taught for a short time. He then taught for Canajoharie Central School for over 30 years, teaching 4th and 6th grades. Following his retirement, Frank continued to substitute teach until the age of 78.
Frank had been a resident of Orchard Street in Canajoharie for over 56 years.
He was a member of St. John's & St. Mark's Lutheran Church in Canajoharie.
Mr. Pecora coached track, basketball, and football. In 1961, along with coach Franz Brill, they had the only undefeated Football Team in 50 years of Canajoharie Football. He loved golf and greatly enjoyed reading. He looked forward to the daily crossword puzzles. Frank was also a member of the Fort Rensselaer Club. One of his greatest joys was traveling with his wife, Jimmie.
On September 3, 1949, Frank was married to "Jimmie" Allen. She preceded him in death on June 17, 2011, after more than 61 years together. His sister, Frances Walsh also predeceased him in 2014.
His daughters, Lois A. Pecora and Mel Overstreet of Canajoharie, NY, Lisa A. Pecora and Donna Novak of Bethlehem, PA; several nieces, nephews, and cousins survive Mr. Pecora. Edward Prusick 1950 2002
Robert Robinson 1950 1999
Charles Schwarzwal 1950 der Edward Skacan 1950 2004 Art collector of Andy Warhol - Family of painters Burton Stroupe 1950 2002
Milan Svitchan 1950 1999
Paul Taylor 1950 2001
Russell Whitford 1950 1996
Monday, January 18, 2021 Page 10 of 56 Brother Class Year Passed Notes
Andrew Yakim 1950
Robert Zakula 1950 2008
32 Death(s) are 8.70% of Total
Daniel Balya 1951 2008
Ed Dolecki 1951 2008
George Fallon 1951 1995
Chuck Herron 1951 2007
Robert Lindholm 1951 2000
Daniel Lounsberry 1951 2003
Mike O’Toole 1951 2008 Lived in Tionesta, PA with his wife Mary, also a Clarion graduate ahd retired as a high principal with the Forest County Schools. Myron Petruska 1951 1992
Anthony Pitocco 1951 2005 Anthony was a retired educator in the Canton, Ohio School District. He was a veteran of WWII. He is survived by his wife Mabel and sons Mark, David, James and John Pitocco. Hadley Thompson 1951 2012 Colonel Hadley N. Thompson, USAF (Ret) passed away peacefully October 14, 2012. He was born July 14, 1929 to Harold and Helen Thompson in Pittsburgh, PA. He attended Wilkinsburg High School and Clarion State Teachers College where he co-captained the 1949 varsity football team.
In December 1950 he enlisted in the Air Force, and in 1953 he earned his pilot wings and commission as an officer via the Aviation Cadet Program. Hadley completed his degree in the USAF.
In November 1953 he married his high school sweetheart, Lois Jean LeGoullon, and they remained devoted to each other for the next 57 years until she passed in 2011. Lois supported Hadley throughout their Air Force career all around the world, and was a wonderful example of an Air Force wife. During their tour at the Pentagon, Lois served as an officer on the AF OWC Board
Col Thompson served in the Air Force for over 31 years, completing a combat tour in SE Asia flying 125 combat missions. After retirement, he taught at Judson High School for a number of years. He will be remembered by his family and many friends as a loving, generous man, full of love for life, especially by all of those who knew him as their "Boo Boo".
He was preceded in death by his infant daughter.
He is survived by his sister Shirley and husband Joe White, sister Peggy “Pat” Mitchell, son Howard and wife Patty, son Hadley and wife Laura, granddaughter Lauren Chase and husband Jeff, granddaughter Katherine Thompson, grandson Zachary Thompson and wife Correy, granddaughter Hayley Thompson, and great granddaughters Campbell, Caitlin and McKenna Chase.
Memorial Service 10:30 - a.m., Thursday, November 1, 2012 Porter Loring Mortuary North 2102 North Loop 1604 East San Antonio, TX 78232 Click Here to view a map.
Interment with Full Military Honors will follow in Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery.
Thursday, November 1, 2012 Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery 1520 Harry Wurzbach Rd. San Antonio, TX 78209 Click Here to view a map..
In lieu of flowers, please donate in his name to the Wounded Warrior Project (www.woundedwarriorproject.org), Heroes on the Water (www.heroesonthewater.org), or the Austin, TX chapter of Patriot Guard Riders (www.patriotguard.org). Louis Tosi 1951 1998
Monday, January 18, 2021 Page 11 of 56 Brother Class Year Passed Notes
Frank Vescio 1951 2000
Cecil Willoughby 1951 2014 Cecil David Willoughby, 85 of Lakeland, FL, died on April 3, 2014, in Lakeland Regional Hospital due to a stroke. He was born on June 23, 1928 in Rochester, Pennsylvania. He was the son of Cecil S. and Mona Mennell Willoughby. Cecil was a veteran of the U.S. Army and served in the Korean War. He was a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Lakeland, the Freeport, PA Masonic Lodge, the Pennsylvania State Education Association, and the National Education Association.
Cecil taught social studies and driver's education classes at Freeport, PA High School. He was an assistant football coach and the head basketball coach at Freeport. Cecil grew up in the Beaver, PA area, and played football, basketball, and baseball for Beaver High School. He graduated from Clarion University in 1951 and was a member of the Alpha Gamma Phi fraternity.
In 1956, Cecil earned his Master's degree from the University of Pittsburgh. As an outstanding football and basketball athlete for Clarion, he was inducted into the Clarion University Sports Hall of Fame. As a coach, he was also inducted the Armstrong County, PA Sports Hall of Fame. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Bonnie Davidson, in 2005. He is survived by his wife, Martha Smith Willoughby, three sons: Mark David Willoughby and Debra Knox of Pittsburgh, PA, John Albert Willoughby and Lisa of Lewisburg, PA, and Benjamin Paul Willoughby and Chong Hui of Riverview, FL, one sister: Mona Jane Eckman of the Villages in Florida. He is also survived by six grandchildren: Thomas David Willoughby of Cranberry Twp. PA, Aaron David Willoughby of Fort Wayne, IN, Julie Davidson Meleason of Roanoke, VA, Andrew James Davidson of Adrian, PA, Laura Alyse Willoughby of Pittsburgh, PA, and Jeffrey Ross Willoughby of Philadelphia, PA. He is also survived by five great grandchildren with a sixth great grandchild to arrive in September.
Throughout his years, he loved gardening, decorating his house for every holiday, traveling, socializing with neighbors and friends, golfing, attending various shows at the Lakeland Center, cooking for his 19th hole golf buddies, and cheering for the Steelers and Lakeland Dreadnaughts. He also was active in the Presbyterian Church attending various church activities and functions wherever they lived. Most of all, he enjoyed spending time with his wife of 62 years, and the frequent visits from his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. Robert Wolfe 1951 1975
William Worell 1951 2007
Joseph Zelek 1951 2000 Retired Guidance Counselor from the Riverview/Verona School District. George Zissis 1951 2005
17 Death(s) are 4.62% of Total
Richard Astor 1952 1995 Richard ‘Dick’ Astor graduated from Clarion in 1952. He married Irene Stauffer from Clarion. He was hard working, faithful and true to his wife and family, raised 4 boys, and had 10 grandchildren. He later earned a Graduate Certificate in Teaching from Clarion University. He suffered heart failure, and passed away on Christmas Day, 25 Dec 1995. He spent half of his career at Gulf Research (R&D), and half Teaching Science (and Social Studies) at Kiski Junior High School. He had lifelong friends, no enemies, and was active in the Community and church (in New Kensington PA). He loved his wife and 4 boys. He instilled a sense of teamwork, cooperation, and Brotherhood to his sons, and his students at Kiski. This is the foundation for having a successful marriage and career. He displayed a sense of compassion, good-will, and humor, common traits among brothers of “Alpha Gamma Phi.” Frank Augustine 1952 2013
Eugene Boschini 1952 2009 Mr. Eugene Boschini, class of 1952, passed away recently. Gene was a retired teacher at the Lincoln High School in Ellwood City, Pa. He is survived by his companion Martha Rocco and three children, Elizabeth, Ronald and Mary. John Busch 1952 2011
Robert Cooley 1952 2017
Robert Coury 1952 2000
Monday, January 18, 2021 Page 12 of 56 Brother Class Year Passed Notes
Herb Elias 1952 2013 Herbert Edward "Herb" Elias, 83, of Butler, Pennsylvania, passed away in the comfort of his home surrounded by family and guarded by the family dog, Buddy, on March 18, 2013 at 9:48 a.m.
He was born November 1, 1929 in Crenshaw, Pennsylvania to the late Frank Elias and Ethel (Johnson) Elias.
Mr. Elias was a graduate of Brockway High School. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree from Clarion University, then went on to earn his Masters of Psychology at the University of Pittsburgh.
He was a member of the baseball, football and basketball teams in high school and at Clarion.
Brother Elias was a teacher in the Butler Area School District for 41 years, retiring on May 28, 1993.
He owned the Elias Driver Training School for the past 60 years. It is estimated that he taught over 20,000 area residents how to drive. He enjoyed the interaction with his many students and colleagues over the years. He continued operating the driving school until his brief illness in February.
Mr. Elias was an Eagle Scout, a member of the St. Andrew's Roman Catholic Church, the Oakview Golf Club, the Elks Club and the Pennsylvania Association of Professional Driving Schools.
He enjoyed spending the holidays, vacations and special occasions with his large and loving family. He enjoyed golf, Pirates baseball and the Sunday ritual of maintaining his cars with his trusted friend, Pat Mohn.
Mr. Elias is survived by his wife, Marian J. (Burton) Elias, whom he married August 8, 1953; three sons, Rick Elias and his wife Carol of Butler, PA, Doug Elias and his wife Jen of Twinsburg, OH and David Elias and his wife Lori of Bradford Woods, PA; two daughters, Kathy Rubin and her husband Eddie of Acton, MA and Terri Ronald and her husband Carl of Allison Park, PA; thirteen grandchildren, Logan and Chelsea Elias, Avery, Lucas and Brody Elias, Sam, Jack and Ben Rubin, Nathan, Maddie and Noah Elias and Abby and Zach Ronald; two sisters, Alma Capetta and Joyce Grecco, both of Brockway, PA.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two brothers, James and Donald Elias.
Friends will be received Thursday, March 21, 2013 from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. at the Thompson - Miller Funeral Home, Inc., 124 East North Street, Butler, PA.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, March 22, 2013 at 10:00 a.m. at the St. Andrew's Roman Catholic Church, 1660 North Main Street Ext., Butler, PA, with Father James Salberg, officiating. Entombment will take place in the Calvary Cemetery.
If desired, Memorial Donations may be made to the St. Andrew's Roman Catholic Church, 1660 North Main Street Ext., Butler, PA 16001 or to the Good Samaritan Hospice, 3400 Brooktree Road, Suite 320, Wexford, PA 15090. Edward Ewaskey 1952 2014
E Helmintoller 1952 2017
John Jannuzi 1952 1998
John Juban 1952
Monday, January 18, 2021 Page 13 of 56 Brother Class Year Passed Notes
Anthony Loschiavo 1952 2016 Anthony J. Loschiavo, 92, of Aliquippa, passed away unexpectedly Friday, October 28, 2016.
He was born July 13, 1924, in Ambridge and was the son of the late Carmen and Maria (Arturo) Loschiavo. Tony was joyfully reunited with his beloved wife Lena (Silvestri) Loschiavo; three brothers, George, Vincent and Peter J. Loschiavo and a sister, Josephine Swiaka.
He was a member of Saint Titus Roman Catholic Church and the Holy Name Society where he was recently honored as Man of the Year. Tony was also a member of The Knights of Columbus Council 2161. He was a graduate of Clarion State University and University of Pittsburgh where he earned a Master’s Degree. He was an elementary teacher and retired as a school principal. Tony was a life member of the Aliquippa Education Association and the PA State and National Education Association. He was also a member of Beaver County Elementary Principal Association. Tony was a veteran of the U.S. Air Force, 366 Fighter Group, in the European Theater during World War II. He was also the last member of R.O.M.E.O club, (Retired Old Men Eating Out).
Tony is survived by a son and daughter-in-law, Dr. Charles Loschiavo and Evlyn Akury Loschiavo. and four grandchildren, Ashley L. Godoy, Chaz Loschiavo, Alexis L. Wagner and Dr. Christopher Loschiavo. He was also blessed with two great-grandchildren, Adrian and Julian Godoy and was looking forward to the birth of another great-grandchild. Tony is also survived by a sister, Rose Platz; a brother-in-law, Michael Mayconich, and numerous nieces and nephews. Tony will be sadly missed by his niece, Marlene Koledin and a dear friend, Sandy Coates, who lovingly took care of him. Joseph Matthews 1952 1986
Kennith Miller 1952 2003
Frank Palaggo 1952 2002
Raymond Predebon 1952 2007 Ray played basketball and remained an active part of the University after graduating. Ray is survived by his wife Norma and three childern. Raymond Sacolic 1952 2015 Raymond G. Sacolic, 92, of Clearfield, passed away Saturday, August 1, 2015 at his home.
Mr. Sacolic was born November 15, 1922 in Beulah, the son of Andrew and Mary (Manjack) Sacolick.
He was a graduate of the Bigler Township High School, Madera and the Clarion State Teachers College, Class of 1952.
Mr. Sacolic had retired after 35 years of teaching, having taught at Clarion-Limestone, Cornwath, Girard and Goshen Elementary Schools.
He was a member of St. Francis Roman Catholic Church, Clearfield and St. Mary Ukrainian Catholic Church, Ramey.
Mr. Sacolic was a member of the Clearfield Lions Club where he received the Merle Jones Award. He also belonged to the Retired Teachers Association, Civilian Conservation Corp., Watershed Group, Master Gardener, RSVP, Democrat Club and Clarion University Alumni Association and volunteered at the Clearfield Historical Society.
He is survived by five children; Karen Siegel and her husband Dennis of Mt. Joy, PA, Frank McIlvaine and his wife Trudy of Clearfield, Tim McIlvaine and his wife Maria of Canyon Country, CA, Nancy Graham and her husband Darrin and Cathy Sacolic all of Clearfield, twelve grandchildren; Nicholas, Chelsea, Brittany, Lukas and Shannon McIlvaine, Derrick, Shane and Spencer Graham, Kate Hough and Andy, Ben and Daniel Siegel, four great-grandchildren, a number of nieces, nephews and cousins and his beloved cats; Woody and Buzz.
Raymond was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Elsie P. (Mariani) McIlvaine Sacolic and two brothers; Andrew Sacolick and Walter Sacolic.
The family suggests that memorial contributions be made to the American Heart Association , P.O. Box 92, Clearfield, PA 16830. Peter Scierka 1952 1995
Pete Seirka 1952 1995
Dean Shoup 1952 2003
Glen Stennett 1952 1999
Don Weitz 1952 2001
Monday, January 18, 2021 Page 14 of 56 Brother Class Year Passed Notes
22 Death(s) are 5.98% of Total
David Bevevino 1953 2012 David "Red" Bevevino, 82, of Hillcrest Lane, Shippenville, died Friday morning, February 17, 2012, at the home of his daughter, Janie, where he resided for the past six and half years.
Born February 16, 1930, in Warren; he was the son of Joseph A. and Jane Lytle Bevevino. He was married on December 14, 1952 to the former Janice Wagner, who preceded him in death. Mr. Bevevino was a member of the Immaculate Conception Church in Clarion.
A veteran, he served in the Army. Mr. Bevevino was a 1948 of Warren Area High School. He then graduated from the Clarion State Teacher's College in 1953.
In 1952, he led the Clarion Teacher's College Football team to an undefeated season ending with a victory in The Lion's Bowl where he was named the game's MVP. He was inducted into the Clarion University's Sports Hall of Fame in 1991.
He worked as a school teacher for Clarion Area High School for 12 years, three years at Keystone High School, and 20 years at AC Valley, where he retired in 1992. He was a coach of football, basketball, track, baseball, and cheerleading in the Clarion area, including stints at Immaculate Conception, Clarion Area, Keystone, and AC Valley.
Mr. Bevevino was a member of the Northwest Coaches Association and was a PIAA certified official.
He especially enjoyed watching his grandchildren participating in athletic events and after was often seen at local sporting events as a loyal Clarion Bobcat fan.
Mr. Bevevino is survived by four children, Mark Bevevino and his wife, Jean, of Algonquin, IL; D.J. Bevevino and his wife, Patti, of Clarion; Janie Campbell and her husband, Mike, of Shippenville; and Lori Johnston and her husband, Dan, of DuBois; eleven grandchildren, Amy Bevevino and her husband, Shane O'Dell, Matthew Bevevino and his wife, Kristi, Ross Sandora and his wife, Liz, Erika Bevevino, Ben Bevevino, Emily Sandora, David McCleary, A.J. Bevevino, Drew McCleary, Adam Bevevino, and Patrick Johnston; and three great grandchildren, Bryan, Jonathan, and Lucy.
Also surviving are four siblings, Abigail Wolf of Warren, Mark Bevevino and his wife, Fran, of Warren; Frank Bevevino and his wife, Carole; of Dallas, PA; and Joseph B. Bevevino and his wife, Beth, of Dallas, PA. He was preceded in death by his parents and wife.
Memorials and donations can be made to the CUP Athletic Scholarship Fund.
“Red” remained active in Clarion Sports mostly all of his life. He lived in the Clarion area and was a longtime member of the Hall of Fame Committee.
Dave will always be remembered as the Quarterback of the undefeated 1952 Clarion Golden Eagles. Dave is and will always be #66. Thomas Brady 1953 2017
Frank Crowley 1953 1972
George Curry 1953 2002
George Czap 1953 1997
Hugo DeFelice 1953 2002
Fred Donelli 1953 1999 Wayne Norris would like to acknowledge Mr. Harry Shindledecker (53) for his generous monetary gift to our Association, that was made as a memorial to remember his good friend and Fraternity Brother, Mr. Fred Donelli. Harry shared with Wayne his story of how he visited Fred in his final days and the two relived old memories of their past. Harry brought along his old Gamma beer mug to toast their reunion, and left the mug with Fred. Mrs. Donelli still has the mug which we hope to be able to retrieve it for our archives. Thank you again Harry. We will remember Fred.
Monday, January 18, 2021 Page 15 of 56 Brother Class Year Passed Notes
David Dunn 1953 2014 David S. Dunn Sr., 82, of Lower Burrell, passed away peacefully Saturday, June 7, 2014, after a year- long battle with Parkinson's disease. He was born June 30, 1931, in Pittsburgh, the second of 11 children of the late Robert F. and Jean (Anderson) Dunn. Dave grew up in Oakmont and graduated from Oakmont High School in 1949.
After graduating from Clarion State Teacher's College in 1953, he accepted a teaching position with the Latrobe School District. He taught algebra and was an assistant football and track coach.
In 1960, he moved with his family to Leechburg where he accepted a position with Allegheny Ludlum Steel Corporation. He retired in 2003 as director of Quality Assurance. Dave held leadership positions in several technical societies. After retiring, he attended Pittsburgh Theological Seminary and became a lay pastor in the Presbyterian faith. He was a member of Grace Community Presbyterian Church in Lower Burrell where he was an ordained elder. Dave was also a life member of the Oakmont Elks.
Beside his parents, Dave was preceded in death by brothers, Robert, who died in infancy, William and Lee; and a stepgranddaughter, Lisa Hollis Ziccarelli. He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Dolores "Dee" (Hagemann) Dunn; sons, David Jr. (Bonnie) and Robert H., both of Lower Burrell; daughter, Alice Ritenour, of Uniontown; grandchildren, Autumn (Lucas) Seskey, Addie Ruth Dunn (Josh Werthiem), Haley Dunn, Dalton Dunn, Beth Ann Gohn, Renn Ritenour, Charity Ritenour and Amber (Jason) Hays; 12 great-grandchildren; brother, James Dunn; sisters, Judy (Leland) Rupert, Bonnie (Steve) Hookstra, Martha Dunn, Laurel George, Elizabeth Hays and Rebecca (Lenny) Zucco; and a number of nieces and nephews. Lou Galli 1953 2015 We have lost a significant Gamma Brother Lou Galli. Lou was one of the founding members of our Gamma Alumni Association and a valuable source of information regarding the 1950’s Gammas. Without his help and encouragement we would not have the Gammas today. His loss is painful.
Louis J. Galli, 83, of Lower Burrell, formerly of Arnold, died Saturday, February 7, 2015 in his home.
He was born in New Kensington on May 3, 1931 to the late Giuseppe and Giuditta Galli and had been a life resident of the local area. An Educator, he was a Librarian for the Aliquippa, Arnold, Lower Burrell, and Forbes Road East School Districts and retired as the Guidance Consoler for Northern Westmoreland Area Vocational Technical School after 32 years of teaching.
He received his Bachelor Degree in Education from Clarion State University and his Masters Degree from the University of Pittsburgh. He was an Army Veteran of the Korean War serving as a SP4.
Lou was a member of Mt. St. Peter Roman Catholic Church, New Kensington, the Alpha Gamma Phi Fraternity at Clarion, the New Kensington-Arnold Education Association and the Pennsylvania and National Education Associations.
He also served on the New Kensington-Arnold School Board for eleven years.
He enjoyed woodworking and time with his family, especially his grandchildren.
Survivors include: his wife of fifty-nine years: Concetta “Connie” Carnabuci Galli his children: Karen L. (Jeffrey) Snavely, Hershey, Sharon A. Galli, Wexford, Joseph S. (Shelly) Galli, Washington, DC, and Tina Marie (Christopher Haidze) Galli , Lower Burrell; grandchildren: Isabella, Camille and Francesca Galli; Sarah Snavely, and Luke and Benjamin Haidze. John Gray 1953 1999
Clare Lias 1953 1962
Edward Lloyd 1953 1991
Albert Marinich 1953 1962
Monday, January 18, 2021 Page 16 of 56 Brother Class Year Passed Notes
Peter Mervosh 1953 2016 Brother Pete Mervosh, age 84, of Lower Burrell, passed away peacefully on Monday, July 11, 2016. He was born November 28, 1931, in Pittsburgh, to the late Peter and Virginia Acklin Mervosh, graduated from the Clarion State Teachers College and was an Army veteran in the 1950s.
Mr. Mervosh was a Guidance Counselor for Penn Hills School District and Highlands High School. He also was an admissions counselor for Clarion University.
A member of Alpha Gamma Phi, he was recipient of the Distinguished Alumni Volunteer Award from Clarion University. He was a member of First United Presbyterian Church of Tarentum, and enjoyed spending time with his family.
Survivors include his wife of 63 years, Glenna Rose Mervosh; children, Kristin (Edward) Melville of Orlando, FL and Peter (Dottie) Mervosh, Jr. of Harrison City; grandchildren, Edward and Emily Melville, and Claire, Sean, Kate and Mike Mervosh; his sister, Christine (Mike) McBride; and sister-in- law, Marilyn Mervosh.
Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Robert Mervosh. Larry Schulte 1953 1997
Lawrence Schulte 1953 1997
Frank Sharrow 1953 1995
Robert Shaw 1953 1951 All-PSAC Team. Robert "Bob" Shaw, a Clarion native, was an outstanding ·football player at Clarion. Earning four letters from 1949 through 1952, Shaw helped lead the 1952 Golden Eagles to its first undefeated season (9-0), including the Lions Bowl win over East Carolina. Considered an outstanding guard, Shaw co-captained the 1952 team and was voted as a "Little All-American," plus being named to Clarion's All-Time Team in the 1960's. At Clarion he also was president of the Varsity "C" Club and president of Student Senate (1952-53). An Education/Math major and 1953 graduate, Shaw distinguished himself as an outstanding coach after graduation. The defensive coordinator at West Virginia from 1988-90, Shaw also has had stints as assistant head coach at Akron (1986-87), the coordinator of run defense with the Portland Breakers (USFL) from 1984-85, linebackers coach at Arkansas (1983-84), and others: Harry Shindledecker 1953 2011 Harry E. Shindledecker, 86, of Cabot, passed away Saturday, Nov. 19, 2011, at Concordia Lutheran Ministries. Born Aug. 6, 1925, in Natrona Heights, he was the son of Harry E. and Minnie K. (Michel) Shindledecker.
Harry graduated from Har-Brack High School and worked at PPG in the research lab. He then went on to graduate from Clarion University and received his master's degree from the University of Pittsburgh. He also attended Rowan University, where he had 60 credits. Harry taught school in Freeport, Castle Shannon, Whitehall and retired as principal in Pennsville, N.J.
He was a member of St. Luke's Evangelical Lutheran Church in Saxonburg. He loved children and enjoyed teaching and traveling. Harry was a loving husband, father and grandfather. Surviving are his loving wife, Lois (Black) Shindledecker, whom he married in 1954; his daughter, Lisa Ryder, of Philadelphia; two grandchildren, Dawn and Michael Murty; and two great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents and three sisters, Helen Stennett, Esther Kurn and Twila Thompson.
At Harry Shindledecker's request, there will be no public visitation. Relatives and friends will be welcome to attend his memorial ceremony at 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 26, 2011, at St. Luke's Lutheran Church, 310 Main St., Saxonburg, with the Rev. Roger Keller officiating and the Rev. Arthur Kringel, of Dover, Del., assisting. Memorial donations may be made to the St. Luke's Evangelical Lutheran Church or to the Good Samaritan Hospice, 134 Marwood Road, Cabot, PA 16023. Arrangements are being handled by the FOX FUNERAL HOME INC., Saxonburg Wayne Norris would like to acknowledge Mr. Harry Shindledecker (53) for his generous monetary gift to our Association, that was made as a memorial to remember his good friend and Fraternity Brother, Mr. Fred Donelli. Harry shared with Wayne his story of how he visited Fred in his final days and the two relived old memories of their past. Harry brought along his old Gamma beer mug to toast their reunion, and left the mug with Fred. Mrs. Donelli still has the mug which we hope to be able to retrieve it for our archives. Harry lives in Pennsville, NJ with his wife Lois, and is a retired Elementary Principal. His hobby is going on cruises. He and Lois have virtually seen the world while enjoying their retirement. Thank you again Harry. We will remember Fred. Floyd Stanczak 1953 2005
Monday, January 18, 2021 Page 17 of 56 Brother Class Year Passed Notes
Michael Wolsonovic 1953 2006 Michael "Casey" Wolsonovich, 89, of Ford City, died peacefully on Tuesday, Jan. 24, 2006, in h Armstrong County Health Center, Kittanning. Born June 15, 1916, in Ford City to the late Nick and Anna Elash Wolsonovich, he was a lifelong community resident.
Casey was a World War II Army veteran who served from 1941 to 1945 and received service medals and a Good Conduct Medal.
He was a fleet centerfielder and one of the top players in Ford City history, with a career spanning 17 years. Casey played for Army teams in Africa, Egypt and Europe, and his team won the Mideast and European championships in 1942-43. He tried out with the old St. Louis Browns' farm club in Mt. Airy, N.C., but a beanball shortened his career. He competed against many teams, including the Homestead Grays and the Pittsburgh Crawfords, during a career in which he was a .350 hitter.
Casey was inducted into the Armstrong County Sports Hall of Fame on April 24, 1994. He loved watching Pittsburgh college sports, the Pirates and the Steelers; bowling; attending his grandchildren's sporting events, and spending time with his family. He was a member of St. Mary Ukrainian Church.
He worked at PPG, Ford City, before retiring.
He was the husband of 50 years of Pauline Virginia Bonora Wolsonovich; father of Paul (Colleen) Wolsonovich of Kittanning, Lenora (Keith) Shiring of Decatur, Ill., and Michele Meixelberger of Manorville; brother of Anne Fluehr of Philadelphia, and the late Wallace "Bunker" and John "Koe" Wolsonovich, Mary Turko and Sadie Preksta, grandfather of John and Matthew Shiring, Laura, Jamie and Eric Meixelberger, and Casey, Dylan and Jenna Wolsonovich. 21 Death(s) are 5.71% of Total
Anthony Ardito 1954 1997
Andrew Bach 1954 2018
John Brown 1954 2000
Jack Hackett 1954 2015
Lawrence Lewando 1954 2006 Lawrence J. Lewandoski, 75, of Level Green, died Monday, June 26, 2006, in his home. He was born wski June 21, 1931, in Braddock, the son of the late Joseph and Stella Styke Lewandowski. Lawrence was a member of St. Regis Church, Trafford. Lawrence graduated in 1950 from Westinghouse Memorial High School and played football. As a youngster, he played in the first football game in the newly renovated Turtle Creek Stadium, now known as the Wolverena. In May of 1954, he received his B.S. in education from Clarion State Teachers College, where he was a member of Alpha Gamma Phi Fraternity and the trainer for the men's basketball team. He taught all levels of mathematics at Turtle Creek and Woodland Hills high schools and introduced calculus to the Turtle Creek curriculum around 1970. He was the former head of the math department, as well as assistant athletic director at Turtle Creek High School, and helped the Turtle Creek men's basketball team by serving as the score keeper for many years. Lawrence was involved with his students in many ways, such as being the junior class adviser and prom sponsor for most of his 35 years as an educator. He is survived by his wife of 51 1/2 years, Blanche Mullen Lewandoski; a daughter, Carolyn Phillips and husband, Robert, of Avonmore; and two grandchildren, Shane and Amber Phillips. He will be sadly missed by all his family and friends. There will be no visitation. A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 9:30 a.m. Friday in St. Regis Church, Trafford, with the Rev. James D. Tringhese as celebrant. Interment will follow in Penn-Lincoln Memorial Park, North Huntingdon. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Family Hospice & Palliative Care, 50 Moffett St., Pittsburgh, PA 15243. JOHN M. DOBRINICK FUNERAL HOME INC., 602 Seventh St. (Route 130), Trafford, 412-372-3111, is assisting the family with arrangements.
Monday, January 18, 2021 Page 18 of 56 Brother Class Year Passed Notes
Enrico Paperello 1954 2011 Brother Papurello was born June 29, 1932, in Blairsville, a son of the late Domenic Papurello and Carolina M. (Martz) Papurello. He was employed as the director of instructional materials for the Westmoreland Intermediate Unit in Greensburg for 37 years, retiring in 1991.
A Korean War Army veteran, he was a member of Christ the King Parish, in Leechburg. Mr. Papurello was a 1949 graduate of Ford City High School and a 1953 graduate of Clarion State College with a Bachelor of Science degree in education. He received a master's degree in 1967 from Duquesne University, in Pittsburgh.
Rick was a teacher and a librarian at Burrell High School and was a coach for the Burrell High School football and baseball teams. He was also a coach for Leechburg Senior League Baseball for many years and was an announcer at Leechburg Area football games.
He was also a photographer for area sports teams and weddings, a member of the West Leechburg Volunteer Fire Company and the Pa. Association of Retired Teachers.
Brother Papurello was an avid Pittsburgh Steelers fan, enjoyed fishing, photography, walking and spending time with his children and grandchildren.
Survivors include his wife of 57 years, Alice A. (Caveglia) Papurello; three sons, Michael J. (Rebecca) Papurello, of New Kensington, Vincent D. "Vinnie" (Linda) Papurello, of Mt. Lebanon, and Rick A. (Tracy) Papurello, of Mt. Pleasant; a daughter, Diane "Dee Dee" (Art) Socha, of Scottsdale, Ariz.; and three grandchildren, Vince, Sophie and Emily Papurello. He was preceded in death by his parents. Howard Reasinger 1954 1993
Alexander Sandusky 1954 2020 1953 All-PSAC Team, 1952 All-PSAC Team, Alex was certainly one of the best to don a football uniform at Clarion. NFL All-Pro for Balitmore Cots.
The Stowe Township native came to Clarion and played offensive and defensive end for the Golden Eagles. A player from 1950-53 and a letterman 1951-53, he was one of the mainstays on the 1952 Clarion team which was undefeated and untied with a 9-0 mark. From 1951 to 1953 Clarion had an overall record of 17-4-1.
Voted to the Little All-America and All-State teams, Sandusky graduated from Clarion in 1954, was drafted 16th in 1954 by the Baltimore Colts, and reported at defensive end for camp. At camp coach Weeb Ewbank decided he would be better protecting the quarterback than rushing him, and Sandusky became a great offensive guard and NFL All-Pro for the Colts. He started the second game of his rookie season and was a starter the remainder of his illustrious 13-year career, missing only one game during that time due to injury. The Colts won the NFL Title in 1958 and 1959 and went to the title game numerous times.
Said Alex Karras (Detroit Lions) of Sandusky in a 1967 Sport Magazine article, "Sandusky is as fine a guard as there is in this league (NFL) and always has been." Joe Tessitore 1954 1993
Richard Vidunas 1954 2004 Retired coach and Social Studies teacher Union School District
Ron Yesky 1954 2019 Ronald A. Yeskey, 86, of Unity Township, died Friday, May 10, 2019, at The Grove at Latrobe, Unity Township. He was born Oct. 16, 1932, in Greensburg, a son of the late Fred L. and Dollie C. (Carnes) Yeskey. He was a graduate of Warren Senior High School, Clarion University, West Virginia University and Duquesne University. He began his career as a teacher at Harrold's Junior High and Hempfield High School, where he also was the wrestling coach. Prior to retirement, he was a teacher, business manager, transportation director, assistant principal then principal at Greater Johnstown School District. He served as recreation director at Hempfield Township and also for the city of Williamsport. He was a member of Pleasant Unity United Methodist Church; the Pennsylvania State Education Association; National Education Association; Pennsylvania Recreation Association; B.P.O.E. No. 907; Clarion University Alumni Association; the Ligonier, Greensburg and Williamsport YMCAs; the Silver Sneakers; and the Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite Order of Free Masonry. Ronald participated in the Westmoreland County senior games since age 65 and, in 2014, was voted Senior Sportsman of the year. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Richard D. Yeskey, and a sister, Rowena Lynn Nelson. He is survived by his wife, Ilse E. (Korneke) Yeskey; two sons, Michael B. Yeskey and wife Ellen, of Ligonier, and Dr. Kevin S. Yeskey and wife Dr. Debra, of Holidaysburg; his daughter, Lisa C. Yeskey and husband John Kent, of Port St. Lucie, Fla.; five grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; a sister, Patricia A. Carlson, of Warren; and several nieces and nephews. 11 Death(s) are 2.99% of Total
Monday, January 18, 2021 Page 19 of 56 Brother Class Year Passed Notes
Ross Damaso 1955 2009 Ross Damaso, 76, of Hopewell Township, passed away after an extended illness on Wednesday, October 14, 2009, surrounded by his loving family.
Born May 11, 1933, in Sewickley, a son of the late Peter and Helen (Gamber) Damaso, he was a member of Our Lady of Fatima Roman Catholic Church, Hopewell Township. Mr. Damaso was a retired teacher of the Hopewell Area School District, where he taught for 30 years, and was a Hopewell Township commissioner for 16 years. He also served as the president of the Sons of Italy Italian Club in Sewickley.
In additions to his parents, he was preceded in death by three sisters, Antoinette Vaccaro, Teresa Nicastro and Mary Christiano, and two brothers, Louis and Meday Damaso.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 53 years, Jeanne "Pat" (Summers) Damaso; three sons and two daughters-in-law, David and Brenda Damaso, East Liverpool, Ohio; Dwight Damaso, Hopewell Township, and Duane and Denise Damaso, Center Township; six grandchildren, Dayna Damaso, Samuel Damaso, Robert Banks, and Michael, Nicholas, and Timothy Guiliani; two special nephews, who were raised by their uncle Ross and aunt Jeanne, Peter and Paul Summers; a brother and sister- in-law, Michael and Cynthia Damaso, Tampa, Florida; his twin sister, Rosemarie Belczyk of Beaver Falls, and many nieces and nephews.
At Ross's request, there will be no public visitation. Family and friends are invited to celebrate a memorial Mass on Tuesday, October 20, 2009 at 10 a.m. in Our Lady of Fatima Church with Father Howard Campbell officiating. A luncheon for family friends will follow at the Fez.
The family respectfully requests that donations may be made, if desired, in memory of Ross, to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, P.O. Box 4072, Pittsfield, MA 01202. John Forringer 1955 2008 John Forringer, class of '55 passed away on June 28, 200808. John Monroe Forringer, of 1543 Regent Street, Niskayuna, NY., died June 28, 2008, at home at about 6:45 PM. Born June 17, 1933 in Clarion, Pennsylvania, he was the son of Margaret (Peg) Van Allen and the late Russell R. Forringer.
John was married on March 6, 1954, to Donna Jean Keefer who together with their children Jon Alan, Kathleen Leslie, and Susan Michelle, survive him. Mr. Forringer is also survived by his mother, Margaret, two brothers, Paul and David, and his sister, Judy. John is also survived by 10 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren.
Mr. Forringer attended Clarion State Teacher’s college, graduating with the class of 1955, and initially taught science and math in New Bethlehem Pa. Mr. Forringer then attended RPI in Hartford, CT. from 1956 to 1958, graduating with a master’s degree in mechanical engineering while working with Pratt &Whitney In East Hartford, Connecticut. Since that time he has worked with General Electric on various projects, including some that went to the moon in 1969.
Mr. Forringer was a member and Elder of the Clifton Park Community Church, and was a loving father to his children and his grandchildren, and a loving husband to his wife Donna. John was a quiet mentor to his many friends and extended family.
John enjoyed hiking in the Adirondack’s high peaks, has enjoyed driving and maintaining English sports cars since his youth, was an avid reader and photography buff.
Mr. Forringer was a member of the Glenville Seniors Center photo club, where he participated actively for the past few years.
Visitation will be at the Daly Funeral Home on Tuesday July 1, from 6PM to 8PM. Services will be held at Clifton Park Community Church, on Moe Road, Clifton Park, Wednesday, July 2nd at 9:00 AM.
John will be interred in his hometown of Clarion Pennsylvania on Thursday, July 3rd, 2008 at 11 AM.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Schenectady City Mission, or to the Schenectady Christian School, in Scotia, NY. Walter Lonchena 1955 2000
Joseph Lynch 1955 1929
John Mancini 1955 2011
Monday, January 18, 2021 Page 20 of 56 Brother Class Year Passed Notes
Donald Reno 1955 2010 Brother Donald E. Reno, 84, of McMurray, passed away Monday, Nov. 29, 2010. He was the beloved husband for 52 years of Mary Rose (Vescio) Reno; loving father of David S. (Jennifer) Reno and Elizabeth Anne (Keith) Rouleau; proud grandfather of Mary Katherine and Patrick Rouleau and Joshua Reno; and brother of the late Alan.
A graduate of Beaver Area High School, Mr. Reno received his bachelor's degree from Clarion University and a master's from California University of Pennsylvania. At Clarion, he was captain of the varsity basketball team and a member of Alpha Gamma Phi fraternity.
A teacher of American history and assistant basketball coach in the Bethel Park School District, he retired from teaching in 1989 and coaching in 1998. During his retirement, he enjoyed an active life, spending time with his grandchildren, trips to Hilton Head and Penn State football games, golf and various Clarion University activities.
He was a member of the board of directors of the Clarion University Alumni Association and served 10 terms as president and board member of the Bethel Park Athletic Hall of Fame.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 AM Friday in St. Thomas More Church. Entombment in Queen of Heaven Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Clarion University Foundation Inc., 840 Wood St., Clarion, PA 16214.
Don was a Gamma alumni member, a Last Gamma Standing and a strong supporter of the Gammas and the University. He had been fighting rectal cancer for some time but on Monday succumbed to the terrible disease. Harvey Shapiro 1955 2018 Harvey Shapiro, age 86, of Millcreek, passed away Saturday, June 30, 2018 at St. Vincent Health Center.
He was born in Pittsburgh, on July 29, 1931, son of the late Charles and Naomi Rubinoff Shapiro.
Harvey was a graduate of Fifth Avenue High School, Pittsburgh University, Clarion University and Edinboro University. He was a member of Alpha Gamma Phi.
He retired after 35 years as a teacher in the Warren County School District. Harvey was an official for football and basketball and coached basketball and track. He also coached Mike Shine who became a silver medalist in the 1976 Olympics.
He was a member of Temple Anshe Hesed.
Harvey was an avid Pittsburgh fan and was most proud of his only granddaughter.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by aunts and uncles.
He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Barbara Shapiro; a daughter, Susan Comi and husband Dominick of Erie; a son, Barry Shapiro and his wife, Jennifer Merz of Erie; and a granddaughter, Deborah Comi of Buffalo, and a few nieces and nephews.
Burial will be at the Temple Anshe Hesed Cemetery.
The family would like to thank the staff at Golden Living and especially his table-mate Doug and the bingo gang.
Memorials may be made to the Temple Anshe Hesed, 930 Liberty Street, Erie, Pa. 16502, ANNA Shelter, 1555 E 10th St, Erie, Pa. 16511 or the Humane Society, 2407 Zimmerly Rd, Erie, Pa. 16506 Jim Verbanac 1955 2010 Brother Jim Verbanic unexpectedly passed away last Tuesday, 29 Dec 2009. Jim was a member of the 1952 undefeated and Lions Bowl champs. Jim is number 74. Son of the late Joseph & Anna (Becic) Verbanac; beloved father of Karen E. Smith of San Francisco, CA; brother of Eleanor V. (Jerome) Madden of NJ; uncle of Joanne Ouligian of Merion Station, PA., Jerome A. Madden of Portland, OR, Mary E. Madden of Arlington, VA. & Eileen M. Durey of Essex, MA; survived also by grand-nieces & nephews. Services were held on Saturday, 2 Jan 2010 at St. Cyril of Alexandria Church followed by FOP/County Police Association Service later in the day. In lieu of flowers family suggest Memorials to: St. Cyrils Athletic Association. Chester Warden 1955
Monday, January 18, 2021 Page 21 of 56 Brother Class Year Passed Notes
John Zissis 1955 2014 John Zissis, 87, of New Bethlehem, died Thursday afternoon, October 16, 2014, at UPMC Montefiore in Pittsburgh, following an illness. Born June 25, 1927, in Pittsburgh, he was the son of Frank and Anna Zissis. Mr. Zissis was a veteran of the United States Navy, serving during World War II. He was honorably discharged in July of 1946. He married Beverly "Deane" Kahle, on August 26, 1956. She survives. Mr. Zissis was an elementary school teacher and retired from the Redbank Valley School District. He was a member of the Masonic Lodge No. 522, L.O.O.M., FOE, VFW and American Legion clubs all of New Bethlehem. He was an avid golfer and sports fan. In addition to his wife, survivors include a daughter, Jana Lyons and her husband, Bill, of Pittsburgh; and a brother, Tony Zissis and his wife, Espy, of Pittsburgh. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, George. The family will receive friends from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Monday, October 20, at the Rupert Funeral Home and Cremation Service Chapel in New Bethlehem. Immediately following calling hours, everyone is invited and encouraged to attend a reception and time of fellowship in Mr. Zissis' memory at the New Bethlehem MOOSE Lodge basement in New 10 Death(s) are 2.72% of Total
Peter Bono 1956 2016 Peter Ralph Bono, 81, of Allegheny Township, passed away Thursday, Nov. 24, 2016.
Born Jan. 18, 1935, in Leechburg, he was a son of the late James and Lucy (DeFilippi) Bono.
Peter lived in Allegheny Township since the early '60s, and was a 1952 graduate of Leechburg High School. He received his bachelor's degree in chemistry from Clarion University, and was a member and captain of the basketball team.
Peter served our country with the Army.
He worked as a lab technician in the Research Department at Alcoa for more than 30 years, retiring in the mid '90s.
Peter was a member of St. Gertrude Roman Catholic Church, and the BPOE Lodge 377 in Leechburg.
He was an avid woodworker, building many pieces of furniture, along with toys for his grandchildren. Peter also enjoyed golfing, and taking golf trips with his friends. He loved reading, especially anything related to history, and liked working on crossword puzzles.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, James Bono. Peter is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Barbara Jean (Parlett) Bono; children, Patrick J. (Rebecca) Bono, of Apollo, and Rita A. (Dan) Kastner, of Pine Township; grandchildren, Josh, Katie, Luke, and Alex; great- granddaughter, Evelyn; brothers, Frank Bono, of Vandergrift, and Edward (Nancy) Bono, of Leechburg; and nieces and nephews.
Memorial contributions may be made in Peter's memory to the American Lung Association , 810 River Ave., Suite 140, Pittsburgh, PA 15212. Domenick Cavalanci 1956 2001 Brother of James Cavalancia. Domenick lived in Asthabula, Ohio with his wife Audrey who also a graduated from Clarion in 1957. Domenick also coached Jr. High football, track and girls basketball
Monday, January 18, 2021 Page 22 of 56 Brother Class Year Passed Notes
Furman Curry 1956 2012 Furman Clair Curry Jr., 82, of Apollo, passed away Monday, Nov. 5, 2012, at his home. He was born Feb. 7, 1930, in North Apollo, the son of the late Furman Clair Sr. and Lena Ebbert Curry.
Before his retirement, he was first employed at the Apollo High School as a math teacher and football coach, then by U.S. Steel in Vandergrift and the Irvin Works in Dravosburg as a foreman and systems analyst. He was an Army veteran having served during the Korean War with the Army Security Agency during his tour of duty in Tokyo.
Furman attended Park Hill Church of God, where he was a teacher and, most recently, the North Apollo Church of God where he held the positions of vice chairman and elder.
He was a trustee of Clarion University, a 1992 inductee of the Armstrong County Sports Hall of Fame, a member of the Keystone Boy Scouts, The Armstrong County HUD Board, the ARIN Board and past president of the Apollo Ridge School Board.
He was a 1948 graduate of Apollo High School and a 1956 graduate of Clarion University.
He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Mary L. Lobaugh Curry; four daughters, Rose Solkovy and her husband, Charley, of Freedom, Beth Schoendorf and her husband, Brian, of Glenshaw, Patty Grubbs and her husband, Jon, of Gibsonia, and Carol Yarros, of Verona; a son, Furman John Curry and his wife, Carol, of New Alexandria; 14 grandchildren, Brian Solkovy and his wife, Michelle, of Hampton, Shannon Boone and her husband, Anthony, of Hookstown, Megan, Zach and Sarah Schoendorf, Joshua Grubbs, of Mechanicsburg, Bethany Wentz and her husband, Brad, of Gibsonia, Jeremy Grubbs, of Hartsville, S.C., Matthew Curry and his wife, Leah, of Blairsville, Jordan and Chelsea Curry and Justin, Kirsten and Rachel Yarros; eight great-grandchildren; and a sister, Katherine Schmitzer and her husband, Elmer, of Penn Hills.
The family will receive friends from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. Wednesday in the KELLY L. CORRIDONI FUNERAL HOME LTD., 1916 Moore Ave., North Apollo. Additional visitation will take place one hour prior to services at 10 a.m. Thursday in North Apollo Church of God. Services will be conducted at 11 a.m. Thursday in the church with Pastor Robert Shallenberger officiating. Interment will follow in Fairview Cemetery, Spring Church. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions in Furman's name to North Apollo Church of God, 507 20th St., North Apollo, PA 15673, or the Whitehall Camp, 580 Whitehall Road, Emlenton, PA 16373. Gerald Etzel 1956 2010 17 June 2010 Lawrence Ferguson 1956 2005
Monday, January 18, 2021 Page 23 of 56 Brother Class Year Passed Notes
Marion Goodwill 1956 2007 Marion Samuel "Sam" Goodwill Jr., 78, of Beech Avenue, Brookville, died Wednesday, Oct. 17, 2007, in McKinley Health Center, Brookville. Born Aug. 11, 1929, in Oil City, he was the son of Mary Morrison Goodwill and Marion S. Goodwill. He graduated from Oil City High School. Mr. Goodwill served in the U.S. Navy from 1949 to 1953, proudly sailing aboard the USS Jarvis and was a veteran of the Korean War. He graduated in 1956 from Clarion State Teachers College, now Clarion University, and later earned his master's degree in administration from Penn State. His 30-year career in Pennsylvania public education included positions as a teacher in Red Lion, teacher and principal in Freeport, administrative assistant for academic affairs at Johnstown Vocational Technical School, principal of Hampton Township High School, and principal of Brookville Area High School from 1971 until retiring in 1986. Mr. Goodwill was an avid golfer and enjoyed friendships made through memberships in many organizations including the First United Methodist Church of Brookville, Pinecrest Country Club, American Legion Post 102, Armstrong Lodge No. 239, F. & A. M. of Freeport, Valley of New Castle Scottish Rite, and the Pennsylvania Association of School Retirees. He was married in Winchester, Va., Aug. 24, 1956, to Gwendolyn Middleton Goodwill, who survives. Also surviving are three sons, David S. "Sam" Goodwill of Gig Harbor, Wash., Scott W. Goodwill and wife, Mary, of Mount Joy and Steven F. Goodwill and wife, Carol, of Ogden, Utah; grandchildren, Samuel Goodwill of Gig Harbor, Wash., Hannah and Caroline Goodwill of Mount Joy and Steven and Sydney Goodwill of Ogden, Utah. He also is survived by two brothers, Guy Goodwill and wife, Marjorie, of Oil City and John Goodwill and wife, Beth, of Magnolia, Del.; and two sisters, Virginia Womer and Helen McIntyre and husband, John, all of Oil City. Family and friends will be received from 7 to 9 p.m. Friday and from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. Saturday in the McKinney Funeral Home in Brookville. Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. Sunday in the First United Methodist Church in Brookville with the Rev. William Mick Chittester officiating. Interment will be in Emlenton Cemetery, Emlenton. Memorial contributions can be made to the First United Methodist Church of Brookville, 205 Jefferson St., Brookville, 15825, or to the American Heart Association, Northwest Central Pennsylvania Chapter, 501 Howard Ave., Bldg. D, Suite 101, Altoona, 16601.
Monday, January 18, 2021 Page 24 of 56 Brother Class Year Passed Notes
Edward Lendenski 1956 2012 I’m saddened to tell you another Gamma has passed on. Brother Ed Lendenski, ’56, age 80 of West Milton, OH passed away on Tuesday, May 1, 2012 at Hospice of Dayton surrounded by his loving family.
He was born April 7, 1932 in Natrona, PA. Proceeded in death by his parents John J. and Irene (Achkio) Lendenski, brothers Joseph and John Lendenski, sisters Irene Pszczolkowski, Margaret Derewicz and Mary Lou Lendenski. Ed is survived by his beloved wife of 50 years Beatrice Carolyn (Oliver) Lendenski, son and daughter-in-law Eddie and Chris Lendenski-Loveland, daughters and son- in-law Julie and Mark Newman-West Milton, Carol Ann Patton and Gary Hampton-Englewood, OH, grandchildren Marcus Patton, Aimee Newman Geise, Sam and Carly Newman, Mitchell and Johnny Lendenski and great-grandchild Ava Marie Geise, special brother-in-law and sister-in-law Hick and Sandy Oliver and numerous nieces and nephews.
Ed He proudly served his country in the US Army during the Korean War. He was scheduled to graduate from Clarion in 1954, but postponed graduation to 1956 so he may serve his country. He received a Master's Degree in School Administration from Marshall University, taught and coached at Paint Valley High School, Logan High School, Milton-Union (1963-1968) and served as principal of Milton-Union High School from 1968-1991. He also coached football at Marshall University, was inducted into the Milton-Union Hall of Fame in 2012 and Milton-Union Wall of Fame
Ed was founder of "Senior Citizens Day" at The Milton-Union Schools. He was a member of Transfiguration Catholic Church, member of American Legion Post #487, Past President of West Milton Rotary, and former member of Ohio High School Athletic Association, Southwest Athletic School Board and Ohio High School Athletic Board of Control.
He enjoyed fishing, golfing, reading, coaching and spending time with his grandchildren, family and friends. Ed will be remembered as a man of great-sensitivity and compassion, a man whose life family, faith, and flag have always played a significant part in his life. The community and all the lives he has touched have lost a great friend.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 A.M. on Monday, May 7, 2012 at the Transfiguration Catholic Church, 972 S. Miami Street, West Milton with Father John MacQuarrie and Father Charles Caserta officiating, burial with Military Honors to follow at Riverside Cemetery, West Milton. Friends may call on Sunday from 5:00-9:00 P.M. at the Hale-Sarver Family Funeral Home, 284 N. Miami Street, West Milton. If so desired, contributions may be made to Ed Lendenski Rotary Scholarship Fund, P.O. Box 34, West Milton, Ohio 45383 or Hospice of Dayton, 324 Wilmington Avenue, Dayton, Ohio 45420. Following the burial a Celebration time will take place at Overlook Park, 444 N. Miami Street, West Milton. Ken Nelson 1956
James Warmbrodt 1956 1972
Ted Wisniewski 1956
Michael Zeravica 1956 2010 Michael Jonathan Zeravica Jr., 77, of Salinas, Calif., formerly of Trafford, passed away peacefully at home on Friday, Sept. 10, 2010, after a heroic nine-year battle with cancer. He was born in Trafford, a son of Mike Sr. and Elizabeth Borgon Zeravica. He was best known as the proprietor of the former Lamplighter Lounge on Route 130 in Trafford. Mike worked with Pittsburgh Trucking, McDain Golf Center, was an associate with the John M. Dobrinick Funeral Home Inc. for more than 10 years and the YMCA in Wilmerding before moving to Spokane, Wash., to be near his only daughter and son-in- law. Mike loved the Y and worked at the YMCA of the Northwest for five years before moving to California. Mike was preceded in death by his brother, Steve; and two sisters, Marie Zeravica and Betty Kromer. Mike is survived by his wife of 52 years, Rosemarie Angell Zeravica; his daughter, Traciann Williams and husband, Marc, of California; his son, Michael Eric, of Pennsylvania; two sisters, Anna Mae Milovats and Carol Laird, of Trafford; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Mike was a good friend of John Lovre who passed away on Sept 10 in Calif. They grew up together in Trafford and because of him John went to Clarion.
Mike will be remembered by the Gammas of the years 1951 to 1956. He was a Gamma and Clarion football player. Like John , he attended school for two years and then was inducted into the Service. He came back for his junior year and dropped out after the football season. 11 Death(s) are 2.99% of Total
Monday, January 18, 2021 Page 25 of 56 Brother Class Year Passed Notes
Theodore Calkins 1957 2020 Theodore Elbert Calkins of Feasterville, Pa. passed away peacefully on Thursday, May 7, 2020 at Meadowview Nursing Home from Covid-19. He was 85.
Theodore was born July 29, 1934 in Johnsonburg, Pa. to Paul R. Calkins and Frieda R. (Muff) Calkins. He graduated from Rolfe School and received a B.A. degree from Clarion University.
He married Carole D. (Guinard) Calkins in 1962, and lived together in Feasterville. Theodore worked at NADC.
He served his country in the U.S. Air Force for four years.
Theodore is survived by four children, Craig, Kim, Lori, and Kyle, and seven grandchildren. Paul Forringer 1957 2019
Edward Grejda 1957 2006 Former English Professor at Clarion and former advisor of the Gammas. Ed received the Distinguished Faculty Award in 1985 and was a very well known member of our Fraternity. He is survived by his wife Dr. Gail Grejda, and sons Richard and Steve. Frank Miszkowski 1957 1956
John Raso 1957 1998
George Reed 1957 2019
Thomas Romett 1957 2014 Brother Thomas P. Romett, ’57, of Butler passed away Thursday 4 December 2014 following an illness.
Dr. Romett was the beloved husband of Dr. Ellen Romett, who survives him.
Tom was born on June 3, 1935, son of the late John and Erma Sauro Romett of Northern Cambria.
He was a U.S. Army veteran.
Dr. Romett was a graduate of Clarion University and held a doctorate from the University of Pittsburgh. He had a long and distinguished career as an education administrator. He served as the assistant superintendent of the Butler Area and Pennsbury school districts and as acting superintendent of the Karns City, Moniteau and Laurel school districts.
Tom was a recognized expert in school administration and finance, and was appointed by the Pennsylvania Department of Education as chairman of the Board of Control in various distressed school districts throughout the state, including Woodland Hills and Sto-Rox. He also taught undergraduate and graduate courses at the University of Pittsburgh and Slippery Rock University. Tom was honored by the American and the Pennsylvania Associations of School Business Officials for his long and distinguished career.
Dr. Romett was very active in the community through the years and held numerous offices in a wide variety of organizations. H e served as a board member of the Western Pennsylvania Blue Cross/Blue Shield Association, the United Way of Butler County, the Mental Health Association and the Optimist Club. He was an active parishioner at the St. Paul Roman Catholic Church.
In addition to his strong commitment to family and community, Tom loved national and international travel, reading finance books, watching sports and playing with his Airedales, Teddy and Louie.
In addition to his wife, Tom is survived by his cherished son, Jonathan (Tricia); his stepchildren, Todd Fair (Melissa) and Sarah Edwards (Thomas); his grandchildren, Julia and Landon Romett and Frederick Edwards; his brother, Sylvester (Kathryn) of Northern Cambria; and his 30 nieces and nephews.
Tom was preceded in death by his brothers, John, Joseph, Gregory and James, and his sister, Roselyn Bush.
The family wishes to thank the nurses and staff of the Butler VNA Inpatient Hospice for their outstanding and compassionate care. Rudolph Rozanc 1957 2000
Lawrence Salvetto 1957 2003
Roy Smaltz 1957 1982
Steve Zigaravich 1957 2002
Monday, January 18, 2021 Page 26 of 56 Brother Class Year Passed Notes
11 Death(s) are 2.99% of Total
Theodore Aiken 1958 2007
Paul Bucar 1958 2004 Paul "Lou" Bucar, 72, of Trafford, died Monday, Jan. 26, 2004, in UPMC Montefiore hospital, Pittsburgh. He was born Feb. 23, 1931, in Trafford, a son of the late Frank and Katy Krajacic Bucar. Prior to retirement in 1992, Lou was a principal for Norwin School District. He also was a member of St. Regis Church, Trafford, and a former member of Trafford Lions Club. Lou attended Clemson University on a football scholarship and later graduated from Clarion University. After retirement, he was active with the Penn Trafford Football Boosters and enjoyed traveling and spending time with his four grandchildren. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Peter P. Bucar. Lou is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Marjorie Lawrence Bucar; two sons, Paul and wife, Beverly, of North Canton, Ohio, and David, of Level Green; his four grandchildren, David Jr., Sarah, Nathan and Jordan Bucar; and a sister Elizabeth "Betty" Vuick, of New Castle. Donald Dombart 1958 2015
Donald Ehrhart 1958 2012 Brother Donald “Dutch” Lewis Ehrhart of Irvine, Pa. passed away on July 10th, 2012 at 10:45 a.m. in Warren General Hospital. He had been ill for some time with COPD, and died peaceably with his daughter Pamela Mock Wilson by his side Dutch was born in Seneca, Pennsylvania, on May 18, 1932, but grew up around Venus, Pennsylvania. He served in Korea and recently was honored by the Warren County Hospice for his service in the United States Air Force. Dutch was discharged in 1954. He had served for four years in the Korean Conflict as a staff sergeant working as an air traffic controller. Dutch graduated from Clarion State College as an English teacher in 1958. He taught for five years in Fillmore, NY, where he and Alma made many good and long lasting friends. While he was teaching in Fillmore he earned his Masters in Speech Pathology and Audiology from Geneseo State in 1963. He practiced as the district speech pathologist in the Olean School District and was in private practice for a number of years. At that time, he became quite active in the New York State Teachers Association which then became New York State United Teachers-A.F.T., and eventually was employed by them as a field representative. He was also president of the union's professional association in 1970's. He worked in that capacity in the Williamsville and Jamestown offices until his retirement in 1988. During much of that time the family lived in Allegany and Franklinville, N.Y. In both those towns, they met many more families who have remained lifelong friends. James Galbraith 1958 2014
Robert Gray 1958 1965
Don Grogan 1958 2000
George Koelsch 1958 2019
Ted Kukich 1958 2014 Age 79, of North Huntingdon, passed away on Saturday, April 19, 2014, in the Westmoreland Hospital. He was preceded in death by his wife of 42 years, Lois A. Kukich and wife of 11 years Linda J. Kukich; father of Ted (Lorie) Kukich of N. Huntingdon, Lisa Lehman of Herminie, Patsy (Linda) Dent, of Latrobe, Karen Dent, of Adamsburg, Alan (Bertha) Dent, of Colorado Springs, CO.: brother of Melvin " Peach" Kukich, Sr., John "Jack" Kukich, Sr., Cindy Beck, and Mary Ellen Gillihan: also survived by 12 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren. Ted retired after 38 years as a teacher with the Penn_Trafford School District, was a former basketball coach, member of the Masons, Norwin Elks, American Legion and served in the US Army during the Korean Conflict. Friends received Monday 2-4 & 6-9 PM in the JAMES E. LINDSAY FUNERAL HOME, INC., 3343 Route 130, Harrison City were a Funeral Service will be held Tuesday 11 AM. Interment will follow in Woodlawn Cemetery. Ron Kupetz 1958 2000
Harry Mitchell 1958 2000
Richard Rumbaugh 1958 2009
Richard Toskin 1958 1983
James Whited 1958 1993
14 Death(s) are 3.80% of Total
Monday, January 18, 2021 Page 27 of 56 Brother Class Year Passed Notes
Alfred Aiello 1959 2016 Lee, it is with a heavy heart that I tell you that Tony passed away last Saturday morning after complications from a catherization. A Memorial Service and Mass will be held on Saturday, May 14th at the Our Lady of Fatima church in Farrell, PA at 11:00 am with a lunch served immediately thereafter at the Farrell VFW on Idaho Street, Farrell. I did not want to do this in the winter months. Would you kindly pass this on to his remaining fraternity brothers for me? Thank you. Chester Dallap 1959 2008 Chet was a retired guidance counselor for Sharpsville School District. He is survived by two daughters - Barbara and Diane. Rocco D'Angelo 1959 1994
William Eustice 1959 2020 William “Coach” Eustice, of Rimersburg, died on Thursday, July 16, 2020, at the age of 85.
His death was the result of a lengthy illness. His family was by his side.
In August of 1956, he married the love of his life, Gay, who died in May 2020.
Mr. Eustice was a graduate of Clarion Area High School. After serving in the Marines, he received his Bachelor of Science Degree in Education from Clarion State Teachers College. During this time, he played collegiate football.
After graduation, Mr. Eustice taught English, history and driver and safety education for thirty years. He was a beloved teacher and member of the Union community. Mr. Eustice also coached numerous sports during his tenure at Union. He coached football, boys and girls track and led the Golden Damsels girls’ basketball team to state runner up in 1976. Mr. Eustice was also the advisor for the Christian Club at Union, which raised money for the KDKA Children’s Hospital Fund.
After his retirement from Union High School, he taught driver’s education at Port Allegany High School and worked for the PA Dept of Transportation administering CDL tests.
Mr. Eustice cared deeply for every student he met. Teaching and coaching were his passions. He lived for his students and was always offering words of encouragement, a pat on the back, or fatherly advice.
Throughout his life he was a member of Presbyterian churches where he led youth Sunday school. He was most recently a member of the First Baptist Church of Clarion and sang in the choir.
Mr. Eustice was a very talented musician and woodworker. He could often be found in his woodshop singing in a rich bass voice and crafting beautiful pieces of furniture.
Mr. Eustice is survived by a daughter, Lisa (Tim); two sons, Donald (LaDonna) and Ronald (Paula); a brother, Robert (Mary); seven grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and many beloved nieces and nephews. James Graziano 1959 2017 James W. Graziano, 79, of Warren, PA., died Wednesday morning, March 15, 2017 at U.P.M.C. Hamot, after a brief illness.
He was born April 28, 1937 in Warren, PA., to the late Frank and Josephine Scalise Graziano. Jim was a Warren area resident most of his entire life and was a 1955 graduate of Warren High School. He attended Clarion University, University of Buffalo, Edinboro State Teacher's College, University of Pittsburgh and St. Bonaventure University.
He was employed as a 6th grade elementary school teacher at the former North Warren Elementary School and was school principal at McClintock, Jefferson, Home Street, North Warren and Russell Elementary Schools, retiring in 1993.
Jim was a member of St. Joseph R.C. Church, Warren Knights of Columbus and a former member of their Bowling League, Warren County Historical Society and Alpha Gamma Phi Fraternity.
He had served as former Treasurer for 15 years with PASR and served on the Executive Board of PAESP. He was an avid bowler, golfer, reader, music lover and Notre Dame University sport's fan. Jim enjoyed collecting memorabilia of Warren, PA.
He was a man with a great sense of humor, great love and devotion to his wife, children and grandchildren, and loved people.
He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Janice "Jan" Brazer Graziano whom he married August 29, 1959 in Warren, PA., 4 Sons — James J. Graziano and wife, Cindy of Pennsville, N.J., Joseph M. Graziano and wife, Lisa of Denver, CO., John G. Graziano of Warren, PA., Jerold A. Graziano and wife, Tracy of Olney, MD., 1 Sister - Joann Anderson of Warren, PA., 3 Grandchildren - Kaitlyn Rose, Joseph Anthony and Anna Rose Graziano, several nieces and nephews.
Monday, January 18, 2021 Page 28 of 56 Brother Class Year Passed Notes
Marlin Hartman 1959 2020 Marlin E. Hartman, 87, of Indiana, died Thursday, July 16, 2020, at Beacon Ridge. A son of the late Paul R. and Elva Fultz Hartman, he was born July 21, 1932, in Mammoth, Westmoreland County.
In 1991, Mr. Hartman retired from the Math Department at Indiana University of Pennsylvania. He was the recipient of numerous awards, including the award for community service from IUP, several awards from the Pennsylvania Department of Education, and an award for outstanding contribution to math education. He was inducted into the Pennsylvania Math Hall of Fame and was the Northeastern Region Representative at the National Council of Math Teacher’s Convention.
Mr. Hartman was a life member of the V.F.W. and served as Commander in 1989 and Past Commander in 1975 and 1976. He was also a life member of the American Legion and the North American Hunting Club. Mr. Hartman had a recipe for Venison Marsala featured in the North American Hunting cookbook.
He was a member of Zion Lutheran Church and had proudly served his country in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict.
Mr. Hartman enjoyed vegetable gardening, photography, golfing and traveling to most of the western states and Canada to hunt. His true passion was the University of Arizona Women’s Softball Team. He holds season tickets for this team and the Pittsburgh Steelers. Vincent Nelson 1959 2010
Charles Swarzwaeld 1959 er 8 Death(s) are 2.17% of Total
Donald Clever 1960 2000
F. Kenneth Cox 1960 2007 His widow wrote me a nice letter and told me how he loved Clarion and the Gammas. She indicated she wanted to do something in his honor. Ken graduated in 1965. He was at Clarion earlier and went to the service then came back to graduate. Benjamen Deibler 1960 2009 Ben was a retired Field Director with the Pennsylvania State Education Association. He is survived by his wife Delores and childern Drew, Deanna and Jayme. Richard Dunham 1960 2000
James Dunn 1960 2017 ames was born on September 23, 1937 and passed away on Thursday, October 19, 2017.
James was a resident of Youngsville, Pennsylvania at the time of passing.
He graduated from Oakmont High School and obtained his Bachelor's Degree and teaching certificate from Clarion State Teachers College, where he met his wife, Ellie.
Friends will be received on Monday from 4-8 pm at the Youngsville First United Methodist Church, 225 E. Main St., Youngsville, and for 1 hour prior to a funeral service there at 11 am, with the Rev. Ricky Nelson, officiating. Burial will follow in the Youngsville Cemetery.
The family suggests memorial donations in Jim's name be made to the Eagle's Eye Club at the Youngsville High School, 227 College St. Youngsville, Pa. 16371; the Youngsville Alumni Scholarship Fund, P.O. Box 73 Youngsville; or the Youngsville VFD., 29 Firemans Drive, Youngsville. Lee Dunn 1960 2013 Lee Dunn, age 79, of Oakmont/Verona, on January 26, 2013. Beloved son of Robert and Jean Dunn; brother of David Dunn (Dolores), Judith Rupert (Leland), James Dunn (Eleanor), Martha Dunn, Bonnie Hookstra (Steve), Laurel George, William Dunn (deceased), Elizabeth Hays, and Rebecca Zucco (Leonard); loving husband of the late Gerda Dunn.
Lee was a graduate of Oakmont High School, Clarion State College and a brother of Alpha Gamma Phi Fraternity. He served in both the US Navy and the US Army and was employed by the PA Liquor Control Board.
Lee was Past Master of Verona Lodge #548 F.A.&M. of PA, Gateway Royals Arch Chapter #285, and Pittsburgh Commandery #1 K.T. of PA. Paul Enoch 1960 2005
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Herbert Laughman 1960 2016 Herbert Lee Laughman, 84, of New Oxford, entered into God's eternal care on Wednesday, Sept. 7, 2016 at his home. He was the loving husband of Bonnie (Daer) Laughman.
Born July 20, 1932 in New Oxford, he was a son of the late Maurice and Alma Estella (Young) Laughman of Greensprings Road.
During the Korean War, he served four years on a Navy destoyer as a radarman and eight years in the reserves. Herb attended Clarion College and received his masters degree at Duquesne University. He retired from Upper Adams School District as a social studies teacher with 35 years of service. With his passion for history, he became a battlefield guide in Gettysburg upon retirement.
Herb was an avid hunter, fisherman and gardener. He kept bees, made maple syrup and took care of his many animal friends. He loved being outdoors. He was a member of Gettysburg Presbyterian Church, as well as the VFW, American Legion, NRA, Battlefield Guide Association, and the Baykin Spaniel Society.
In addition to his wife Bonnie, Herb is survived by two sisters, Edith Shepard and her husband Bob, and Shirely Nunemaker; two brothers, Donald Laughman and his wife Linda, and Lester Laughman and his wife Veronica; one sister-in-law Nancy Laughman; as well as many nieces and nephews.
Herb is also survived by three step-children, Linda Churchel, Raymond Manganaro and his wife Carole, and Luann Ferkatch and her husband Matthew; as well as eight step-grandchildren; and 14 step-great-grandchildren.
In addition to his parents, Herb was preceded in death by his first wife Charlotte (Manganaro) Laughman; two brothers, Maurice John Laughman and Charles Laughman; as well as one sister Lillian Small.
Monday, January 18, 2021 Page 30 of 56 Brother Class Year Passed Notes
Dan Mahoney 1960 2017 Daniel F. Mahony, age 78, of Bethlehem, PA passed away on Thursday, April 27, 2017 at Moravian Village Health Center in Bethlehem, PA. A dynamic two-way football player from 1956-59, Dan Mahony was outstanding for the Golden Eagles on the gridiron at tight end and defensive end/outside linebacker throughout his career. Dan earned his varsity letter as a true freshman in 1956, then became a three-year starter for the Golden Eagles. He was appointed team captain as a junior in 1958 and was elected team captain as a senior in 1959. Dan was named to the First Team All State Teachers College, All NAIA, the All Pennsylvania College Team and was nationally ranked as a receiver his senior year. Although stats are not available for those years, Dan caught 25 passes his senior season and scored several touchdowns. He also accounted for several career interceptions while spearheading a strong defense up front. Playing under head coach Ernie “Turk” Johnson, Mahony helped lead the Golden Eagles to an outstanding 6-1-1 team record in 1959. Dan and wife Kathleen reside in Clinton, New Jersey. They have two sons Daniel and Kevin and a daughter Margie. Dan taught for 42 ½ years, the last 37 ½ at Bridgewater-Raritan High School before retiring. He was a wrestling official for 28 years and President of the New Jersey Wrestling Officials Association for three years. He is a native of Baldwin, N.Y. and a 1956 graduate of Baldwin High School. 1956-59 Three Year Starter 1956-59 Four Year Letterwinner 1958 & 1959 Team Captain Two-Way Starter On Offense/Defense Tight End & DE/Outside Linebacker 1959 Caught 25 Passes Senior Year – 3 td’s All NAIA & All PSAC First Team 1959 – Led Team To 6-1-1 Record
He was born on September 28, 1938 in Baldwin, NY. He had resided in Clinton, NJ for 44 years before moving to Bethlehem, PA in January of this year.
He was the son of the late Joseph Vincent and Mary Bettman Mahony.
Daniel was the husband of Kathleen Ibbotson Mahony, celebrating 54 years of marriage.
Dan was a retired History Teacher. He taught for over 37 years at Bridgewater-Raritan High School, where he also served as a football and wrestling coach for ten years. Before teaching at BRHS, Dan taught at Lancaster Catholic High School in PA where he pioneered their wrestling program and served as both wrestling and football coach. Dan also taught and coached at East Patterson High School in Elmwood Park, NJ.
Dan was a sports enthusiast and a true leader. In high school, he was continually nominated by his peers to be captain of their teams, including football, basketball, and baseball. Dan also served as captain of the Baldwin Leaders Club. His senior year, he was named to the first team of the All-Long Island football squad by Long Island News Day. He went on to play college football while he attended Clarion University in PA, and was again voted by his teammates to be the captain his sophomore through senior years. He was named to the first team All State Teachers College, All PA College Team, and was nationally ranked at the receiver position.
Dan was inducted into the Clarion University Sports Hal of Fame in 2011 for his excellence in football. Following graduation, Dan played for the Columbia Raiders semi-pro football team.
Dan’s leadership in athletics continued past his coaching career as he went on to officiate wrestling for 28 years. In 1998, he was the recipient of the Richard Mirshak Award for excellence in officiating. He was active in the NJ Wrestling Officials Association, serving in many capacities including president of the Union-Essex chapter for 18 years, State Association president for two years, and Secretary for six years, and headed the Association Ethics Committee for six years. He had also served on the Board of the National Wrestling Hall of Fame, NJ Chapter since its inception in 2000. Dan enjoyed running Somerset County wrestling tournaments for many years. In 2000, he was selected by the NJ Wrestling Coaches Association for induction into the Region V Hall of Fame.
Dan also umpired softball games in Hunterdon County until as recently as last spring.
Dan had a true passion for teaching and a genuine interest in his students. He was recognized by his fellow teachers when he was voted as Teacher of the Year at Bridgewater-Raritan High School. In 1997, he was also awarded recognition as a distinguished teacher by the White House Commission on Presidential Scholars, having been nominated by one of his students. In 2001, he was given the Joseph B. Whitehead Educator of Distinction Award for exemplary dedication to the field of education. Dan loved his subject matter and was always thinking of new ways to teach his history lessons. Even after his retirement, he was asked to come back annually to present his popular lessons on women’s studies and the history of rock and roll and how it shaped the culture of the 1950’s.
Dan was an active community member while he resided in Clinton. He was recently featured in an article in the Hunterdon Review highlighting his volunteer service to the Parks & Playgrounds
Monday, January 18, 2021 Page 31 of 56 Brother Class Year Passed Notes
Commission, where he served as co-chairman for over 25 years. He liked to stay physically active as well and was an avid hiker.
Dan was very family oriented. He enjoyed organizing family reunions and always tried to be present at any major family event. He enjoyed spending time with his children, grandchildren, and very large extended family. Despite having such a large family to keep up with, Dan was always interested and engaged in all of their lives.
Dan is survived by his loving wife, Kathleen and two sons, Daniel F. Mahony Jr. and his wife Laura of Rock Hill, SC and Kevin J. Mahony and his wife Kimberly of Wilson, PA, one daughter, Marjorie Mahony of Bridgewater, NJ, three grandchildren, Gavin Mahony, Cassidy Mahony and Elena Mahony, two step-grandchildren, Mason Chaya and Zac Chaya, three siblings, Peter Mahony and his wife Bette Lou of Fincastle, VA, Charles Mahony of Clinton Corners, NY, and Kathleen Pierce and her husband Richard of Massapequa Park, NY, three sisters-in-law, Jeanette Denton of Whitehall, PA, Rose Mahony Skarbek of Milltown, NJ, and Marion Mahony of Delran, NJ, and 48 nieces and nephews.
Dan is predeceased by three brothers, Joseph Mahony, Leo Mahony, and Hugh Mahony and one sister, Mary Rita Myers.
Memorials can be made to Drexel Neumann Academy, 1901 Potter Street, Chester, PA 19013. To view Dan's video tribute, please click here. George McFarland 1960 2010
James Riley 1960
Lee Rouse 1960 2017 Lee Donald Rouse, a loving husband, father, and grandfather, passed away early on Easter Sunday, April 16, 2017, in Cabot, PA at the age of 81 after a short battle with cancer.
Lee was born in Pittsburgh, PA, and lived in Millvale during his formative years. He graduated from Millvale High School in 1955, where he was a three-season varsity athlete for all four years, and one of the most valuable players in the Allegheny Valley Football Conference.
Lee earned his B.S. degree in education from Clarion University in 1960. He also was a 4-year starter for the Clarion football team at the left-tackle positon. Lee played one season for the Winnipeg Blue Bombers (Canadian Professional Football League) in 1960, allowing him one last chance to play the game he loved.
Lee taught civics/geography and coached football at Avalon High School from 1960 to 1962. In 1962, he married Phyllis Ann Fenrich and they raised two children, Jason and Kirsten.
Lee held sales positions with the Armour Agricultural Chemical Company, International Paper Company, and Stone Container Corporation from 1963 to 1973. Lee took a national sales position with Steel City Corporation in 1973, and relocated his family to Youngstown, OH in 1974. Lee was promoted into positions of greater responsibility over 26 years, retiring as a national sales manager, vice-president, and part-owner.
Lee’s wife, Phyllis, was struck by a rare cancer in 1991, and Lee remarried Karen Wagner Ham in 1996. Lee and Karen returned to the Pittsburgh area in 1999 for their retirement. Lee was a hardworking, compassionate man, who lived life to the fullest and was happiest surrounded by family and friends.
His passions included Steelers football, worldwide travel (he visited 87 countries plus all 50 states), Weimaraner dogs, yard work, Millvale class reunions, annual Ocean City, NJ family vacations, and the Masonic Lodge (50-year member of the Corinthian Blue Lodge #573).
Lee will be sorely missed by his wife, children, and extended family, as well as by those who knew him as a classmate, friend and/or colleague. Lee is survived by his devoted wife, Karen, his children Jason Rouse (Sue) and Kirsten Rouse Durkee (Steve), and his grandchildren: Connor and Owen Rouse and Andrew, Alise, and Matthew Durkee. On Karen’s side, Lee leaves behind Schelly Ham Los (Bob), James Ham (Sharon), Scott Ham (Alisa), and Chris Ham (Michelle), as well as his grandchildren: Kirsten, Morgan, Brittan, Caitlin, Connor, Madissan, Amanda, and Brooke Ham, and Alex, Gavin, and Parker Los. He was preceded in death by his first wife Phyllis Fenrich Rouse and his parents Marie Colbert Lyons and Allen L. Rouse.
Lee’s family will be holding one visitation on Friday, April 21, from 4-7 at Sperling Funeral Home in Wexford, PA, a funeral service will be held on Saturday with place and time to follow.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations are made in his name to the Good Samaritan Hospice at
Monday, January 18, 2021 Page 32 of 56 Brother Class Year Passed Notes
Donald Ryber 1960 2019
Albert Sabatini 1960 2012
Gary Smith 1960 2006 Gary was a retired Biology and Chemistry. He is survived by his wife Phoebe and children, Robin, Gary and Matthew. William Smutko 1960 2010 Brother William “Bill” J.Smutko, 73, Windber, passed away unexpectedly Dec. 26, 2010, at Windber Hospital. Born Oct. 26, 1937, in Windber, son of Michael and Anna (Kepko) Smutko. Preceded in death by parents; sister, Mary Louise Smutko; and brother, Robert M. Smutko. Survived by wife of 46 years, Judith (Kostura) Smutko; son, Michael F. Smutko, married to Candace Rossin, Arlington Heights, Ill.; and daughter, Sarah A., wife of Justin Pechar, Schenectady, N.Y.; also grandchildren, Zoe Smutko and John “Jack” and Lilly Pechar.
A graduate of Windber High School Class of 1956, where Bill played football, baseball and basketball. A 1960 graduate of Clarion State College, where he was co-captain of the Clarion football team, from 1959 to 1960. He also earned his master’s degree at Indiana University of Pennsylvania Class of 1968.
During his college years, Bill served in he Naval Reserves. Retired school teacher from Windber Area High School with 33 years of service, having taught chem-biological sciences. While teaching at Windber, Bill was a former athletic trainer, then assistant coach in JV and varsity basketball and football. He also was a former head coach in varsity football and track.
He was a registered PIAA football and softball official. Member of and participated in Windber Boy Scouts, Troop 110, attaining the rank of Eagle Scout and later becoming an assistant troop leader and committeeman of the troop. Former borough councilman and was elected to two (nonconsecutive) terms as mayor of Windber Borough. He conceived, organized and served as president of the Windber Hall of Fame for 25 years. Bill was an avid duck pin bowler who bowled on several teams. He was a devoted son, husband, father and grandfather who loved teaching and coaching, and also loved Windber. Member of SS. Cyril & Methodius Catholic Church, Windber, where Bill served as an usher and was on many church councils and committees and where funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Thursday, the Rev. Matthew E. Misurda. Committal, Richland Cemetery. Friends received from 2 to 4 and 6 to 9 p.m. Wednesday at William Kisiel Funeral Home, Windber, where vigil service will be held. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Windber Hospital Emergency Room Building Fund or Windber High School College Scholarship Fund. Melvin Vuic 1960 1998
17 Death(s) are 4.62% of Total
Steve Babish 1961 1998
William Beightol 1961
Monday, January 18, 2021 Page 33 of 56 Brother Class Year Passed Notes
Jack Bertani 1961 2019 Jack Bertani, 81, of Punta Gorda, FL died peacefully on the evening of Sunday, November 10, 2019 surrounded by his family. He was born, July 6, 1938 in Charleroi, Pennsylvania, the son of Adam and Elizabeth Bertani.
Jack graduated from Wilmerding High School in 1956. He continued his education at Clarion University, as both an athlete and a scholar; earning a B.S. in Education and lettering four years in Basketball.
Jack began his career as an educator in Pennsylvania, but eventually moved on to sales, going on to become president and CEO of the Jock Shop sporting goods store.
Having always been an unmistakable leader, combined with his background in education, Jack was heavily involved in athletic coaching. He served as president of the South Whitehall Athletic Association and of the Baldwin Whitehall Youth Football Association.
In the early 1980’s, Jack moved to South Florida, where he reinitiated his teaching career and met his loving wife, Kathy. He worked as an educator, and coached basketball and golf until he retired in 2000.
As a proud member of Clarion’s Alpha Gamma Phi Alumni Association, Jack organized the fraternity’s annual scholarship endowment, which awards financial aid to an incoming freshman athlete. For the last fifteen years, he has hosted the Gamma Winter Reunion. The gathering serves as a hallmark for comradery, as alums congregate to golf, reminisce, and raise some hell along the way. As a reflection of his outstanding work, he was bestowed the Clarion University Distinguished Alumni Award in 2013: an accolade which he held in very high regard.
Jack enjoyed spending time with his family, playing golf, going to Vegas, watching the Steelers, and cruising the world with his wife Kathy.
He is survived by his wife of 31 years, Kathy; sons Barry (wife Kelly) and John Robert; granddaughters, Bethany Michele and Brooke Elaine.
A small, private service for Jack’s close family will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Alpha Gamma Phi Alumni Association. The donation should be addressed to the Clarion University Foundation, 840 Wood Street, Clarion, PA 16214. Please denote for the Alpha Gamma Phi Scholarship fund in memory of Jack Bertani. Or, donations may be made to the TideWell Hospice and Palliative Care, 1144 Veronica Street, Port Charlotte, FL 33952. Anthony Cardamone 1961 2000
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Daniel Estadt 1961 2012 Daniel Ernest Estadt – Braddock Born – Swissvale Golden Flash – U S Navy Veteran - Clarion Golden Eagle– Proud Husband and Father - Owner of Estadt’s Sports in Clarion and provider of Gamma Gear which we all enjoy. He is the Brother-in-Law of Brother Paul Siegel.
Dan, 75, of Shippenville, died Sunday Feb. 12, 2012, following a lengthy illness from myelodysplastic syndrome.
Born Aug. 28, 1936, in Braddock, he was the son of Cecilia and Ernest Estadt.
Dan was a graduate of St. Anslem Roman Catholic Junior High School and Swissvale High School.
After high school, Dan spent three and a half years in the U.S. Navy aboard the USS Randolph. He graduated from Clarion State College and married Marian (Mame) Siegel. He later earned his master’s degree in political science from West Virginia University.
He was a high school social studies teacher and basketball coach at Tarentum High School for five years. He left teaching to become the industrial relations manager for Glass Containers in Parker, where he worked for five years before becoming the industrial relations manager for Schenley Distilleries in Schenley.
In November 1976, he opened Dan Estadt’s Sports Shop in Clarion This was one of his greatest accomplishments. Over the past 36 years, Dan spent his time meeting the people of the Clarion area. He loved connecting with the community and developed long lasting relationships with those around him. He always had time for conversation and laughter with everyone who came into contact with him. He also enjoyed golfing, fishing, and treasured the time he spent attending his children’s and grandchildren’s events. Dan was a member of the Immaculate Conception Church and the American Legion.
Dan is survived by his wife of 53 years, Mame; his three children, Kelley Rupert and her husband Jon Rupert, Danny Estadt and friend Pam Lockhart and Dave Estadt and his wife Andrea Estadt; and his four grandchildren, Lindsay Jankowski and her husband Joe Jankowski, Mark Rupert, Jake Rupert and Elizabeth Estadt.
He also is survived by his sister-in-law, Genna Schwartz; brother-in-law Paul Siegel and his wife Raine; brother-in-law Bill Siegel and his wife Marcia; brother-in-law Larry Siegel; sister-in-law Edna Siegel; sister-in-law Debbie Burford and her husband John; sister-in-law Mickey Bowersox and her husband Jim; sister-in-law Nancy Estadt; 23 nieces and nephews and many great nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents and in-laws, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Leo Estadt and Dr. Steve Kurcis 1961 2000
Henry Polasko 1961 2017 79, born May 25th, 1938 to Susan and John Polasko Sr. in Windber, PA and passed away on May 17th, 2019 at Laurelview Retirement Village in Davidsville, PA after suffering a severe stroke. A mass was held in his honor at Saint Anthony's Catholic Church in Windber on June 12th and followed by a delicious luncheon. A wonderful group of fellow teachers, friends, and associates were in attendance with Henry's family. Henry graduated from Windber High School in 1957. He played varsity football but he said, "There are things in life that are far more important." He was an educator, humanitarian and a preserver of legacy. He graduated from Clarion State Teachers College with a B.A. in English in 1960 and spent over 40 years in education afterward. His first teaching assignment was at Forest Hills (Formerly Triangle)High School. In 1970, he received his Masters Degree in Library Science from the University of Pittsburgh. Subsequently, he started 14 years of service on the Windber Board of Education. He started one of Pennsylvania's first computerized reading courses in the 1980's as an "add-on" to the English coursework. Before long, this class became mandatory as a separate course and many other schools adopted this class in their own schools. Henry was proud of another program, an interscholastic reading competition, that he started in 1990. The program has grown into a regional competition with semi-annual meets and takes place across Pennsylvania. in 2008, more than 1,600 students from public, private and home schools competed in an April event in Somerset. Henry was a passionate advocate for Hospice. He received his experience at Windber Hospital volunteering with Dr. Shope, the group's founder, for 15 years. Henry also headed the committee for the Windber Area Hall of Fame Memorial as originator, designer and chairman. Many veterans from the Wndber area are forever honored because of the memorial he established. Henry also worked tirelessly on the Windber Area Authority to provide its customers with premium water and sewage services offered at the lowest rates in the region. Burial plans to be announced at a later date. Henry is survived by his wife, Lorraine, daughters Danielle Charvos, and Penny Ramchander, sister Mary Bonitz, Medina, Ohio and brother, Ed Polasko, Mine 42, Windber, PA., along with many nieces and nephews who loved him dearly Henry was preceded in death by siblings John, Steve, Mike, Dick, (Andy) George, and sister Ann.
Monday, January 18, 2021 Page 35 of 56 Brother Class Year Passed Notes
John Smith 1961 2007 John R. "Jack" Smith, 68, of Scottdale, died Monday, Dec. 31, 2007, at his home. He was born July 18, 1939, a son of the late Herbert C. and Margaret Hails Smith.
He was a member of St. Paul's Lutheran Church, Scottdale. Prior to retirement, he was a teacher in the Norwin School District. Jack was an Eagle Scout.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Daisy Shaner Smith, who died in 2006; and brother, Russell Smith. He is survived by a brother, Herbert T. (Caroline) Smith, of Bradenton, Fla.; sister-in-law, Cecelia Smith, of Bristow, Va.; and eight nieces and nephews; and great- nieces and nephews. Blaine Todd 1961 2011
Bill Whalen 1961 2006 William J. Whalen, class of 1961 and member of Alpha Gamma Phi passed away on 9/28/06 from a heart attack Gerald Whalen 1961 2003
Jerry Whalen 1961 2006
12 Death(s) are 3.26% of Total
Charles Belavic 1962 2007 As a guidance counselor at Steel Valley Senior High School, Charles W. Belavic Jr. always had the students' interest at heart. When Munhall, Homestead and West Homestead merged to form the Steel Valley School District in 1970, Belavic -- a guidance counselor first at Munhall and later at Steel Valley -- helped to ease students' concerns. "When we went into the merger, there was a lot of apprehension by Munhall teachers and students," said Ray Supak, retired principal of Steel Valley Senior High School. "He did a lot to prepare students for the merger." Mr. Belavic, 66, of Edgewood, died Sunday, 21 Oct 2007, at Braddock Hospital from heart disease and cancer. He grew up in Rankin and graduated from the former Rankin High School, where he played varsity basketball and was the starting quarterback his senior year. "Chuck was a naturally talented athlete -- and an artist and a musician," said childhood friend Supak, 68, of Plum. Supak especially admired his friend's baseball ability. "He had one of the best arms I've ever seen," he said. "He could throw from the outfield." His talents were not limited to athletics. "My Dad could pick up a pencil and make beautiful artwork," said his son, Charles Belavic III, 43, of Penn Township in Westmoreland County. "He could pick up any instrument and within an hour he would be able to play it, and you would think this guy had been playing it for years." His son listened to his father play drums, piano, bass -- even a toy flute. "We'd get a toy for Christmas, and he'd play it like he was on Broadway," Charles Belavic III recalled. Mr. Belavic loved jazz, and while attending Clarion University of Pennsylvania, he formed the Chuck Belavic Trio, in which he played piano and Supak, the drums, his friend recalled. Mr. Belavic starred in several plays at Clarion. After graduation, he and his wife, the former Nora Zezza, headed for New York City. He worked off-Broadway, his son recalled, and returned home in 1962 after six months. Shortly upon his return, he found out that he was accepted in the prestigious Actors Studio in New York City. However, Mr. Belavic concentrated instead on a career in education. He taught ninth-grade biology at Munhall, received a master's degree in education from Duquesne University and switched to guidance counseling. He channeled his love of the theater by directing student productions at Steel Valley. Charles Belavic III said his father's former students fondly remembered him. "He just really had a passion for helping the kids, whether it was getting into a college or a trade school," his son said. "He had the students' interest at heart." In addition to his wife and son Charles Belavic III, survivors include another son, Sean, of Edgewood; his daughter, Bridget Belavic-Ceniti, of Forest Hills; sisters Rita Harrell, of Greenville, S.C., and Ruth Galvin, of the Philadelphia area; and four grandchildren. Friends will be received from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. today and Wednesday at the James F. Kutch Funeral Home and Crematory, 107 Fourth Ave., Rankin. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Thursday at Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary Church in Rankin
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Earl Boley 1962 2013 Earl Sonny Boley died unexpenctantly December 26, 2013. He was an exceptional, sensitive, rarely quiet, simple man with strong opinions, an incredible work ethic and an open mind. Unique, original and willing to experiment, Earl believed art to be fun and always strived to improve. Earl was extravagant and thrifty, thoughtful and selfish, generous and tough all at the same time: A compilation of opposites always living in the present. A true Renaissance man who walked the walk and had many talents. Earl was not afraid to get dirty, worked hard and always spoke his mind. Unpretentious, dressed often in thin and worn work clothes, splattered with dirt from his garden and oil paint from his canvasses. Earl was an accomplished artist with 50 years of painting experience. Living simply.
In describing his life, Earl said, "I paint, travel, cook, garden, read, sculpt, but mostly live, learn & leith."
Earl graduated in 1963 from Clarion with a degree in Biology as well as English. Earl was co-captain of the football team in 1962, President of the Alpha Gamma Phi Fraternity and a frequent member of the Dean’s list for academic achievements. After Clarion Earl worked in Pharmaceutical sales for E.R. Squibb in Southwestern, Penna. During this time Earl became interested in art, learning how to paint and even entered examples of his work in the first Three Rivers Arts Festival in Pittsburgh.
Earl’s interest in art grew to the point he traveled to France in 1973 to study and further develop his painting skills. His talents grew to the point he is a very accomplished painter and presented his works to the public for their viewing. Earl traveled frequently to Europe, expanding his horizons in the art world and continued to put his creations on canvas.
Earl lives in Carmichael, California with his wife Susan, who is a photography professor at Sacramento State University. Earl was also a contractor and land developer and owned numerous properties that finally has enabled him the opportunity to pursue his passion.
Earl has five children one of whom is also an artist in Kansas City. George Cottrell 1962 2014 George F. Cottrell, 74, of Jeannette, died Sunday, Dec. 7, 2014, in Excela Health Westmoreland Hospital. He was born Feb. 13, 1940, in Hempfield Township, a son of the late Joseph E. Cottrell Sr. and Florence (Parnell) Cottrell. Prior to retirement, he was a principal for the Hempfield School District. He was a member of the Westminster Presbyterian Church. He is survived by three sons, Eric Cottrell, of Ohio, David Cottrell, of California, and Mark Cottrell, of Latrobe; two grandchildren; three brothers, Joseph Cottrell Jr., of Jeannette, James Cottrell and his wife, Virginia, of Adamsburg, and Daniel Cottrell and his wife, Reppa, of Coventry, R.I.; and numerous nieces and nephews. Roland Dobos 1962 2011 Roland Lee Dobos, 75, of White Oak, on Tues., May 3, 2011 at his home. Born March 23 1936 in McKeesport a son of the late Steve and Virginia Medvan Dobos. Beloved husband of 45 years to LaVerne Haubrich Dobos; brother of Mary Dobos of Trafford and four godchildren.
A graduate of Trafford High School and a 1962 graduate of Clarion State Teachers College, graduating with a Bachelors of Science Degree and obtained his Masters Degree from the University of Pittsburgh.Roland began his teaching career at Port Vue- Liberty High School, and continued teaching as a high school teacher for the Norwin School District until he became disabled in 1988.
Roland was a Lifetime Member of the Alpha Gamma Phi fraternity.
He was a member of the • Sampson's Mills Presbyterian Church in White Oak • PA State Education Retirement System • PA Assoc. of School Retirees • East McKeesport Lodge # 765 F. &A.M. • Tall Cedars of Lebanon & Scottish Rites • Consistory of Pittsburgh Shriners • F.O.E. Aerie 1671 of Irwin • B.P.O.E Lodge 2313 of Norwin • White Oak American Legion Post 701 • East McKeesport VFW Post 8340.
Roland was a veteran of the US Air Force.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his step mother Helen Margin Dobos and a sister Virginia Volpe.
Monday, January 18, 2021 Page 37 of 56 Brother Class Year Passed Notes
Donald Frank 1962 2017 Donald E. "Big D" Frank, 78, of 3958 Long Level Rd., Johnsonburg, died Sunday evening, Feb. 26, 2017 in Okechobee, Florida following a lengthy illness.
He was born June 25, 1938 in Johnsonburg, son of the late Fred C. and Kathleen Lynch Frank.
On Sept. 22, 1990, he married Consilia "Consie" Marasco and she survives.
He resided in Johnsonburg all his life and graduated from Johnsonburg Area High School in 1956. He then graduated from Clarion State College in 1962 and received a master's degree in psychology from St. Bonaventure University in 1992.
"Big D" was a member of the James W. Brown Lodge F&AM, Elks Lodge 612 and Prince of Piedmont Club, all in Johnsonburg. He was a former member of the Rolfe Sportsmen's Club and was a member of the Wilcox Sportsmen's Club.
He had been employed at Johnsonburg Area High School as a teacher and counselor for 38 years before retiring in 1999.
In addition to his wife at home, he is survived by one son, Donald E. Frank Jr. and his wife Karen of Wilcox; four daughters, Kim, Mrs. James Amaret of Lake Placid, New York, Kerry, Mrs. Steve Zuroski of Johnsonburg, Kathy, Mrs. Joe Malobicky of Wilcox and Krista Frank of Johnsonburg; one stepson, Jesse Schreiber and his wife Sarah of Johnsonburg; four grandchildren, Tyler and Nathan Zuroski, Liza Amaret and Kinze Hoffman; two step-grandsons, Mitchell and Maxwell Schreiber; one brother, Fred C. Frank and his wife Jennifer of Johnsonburg; two sisters, Sharon, Mrs. Harry Bressler of DuBois and Kathy, Mrs. Donald Payne of Kane; and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
A Mass of Christian Burial for Donald E. "Big D" Frank will be conducted Saturday, March 4 at 10 a.m. at Holy Rosary Church, Johnsonburg, with Rev. David J. Wilson, pastor, officiating. Interment will be in Holy Rosary Cemetery, Johnsonburg.
A lasting memorial scholarship in Mr. Frank's name with a $500 gift to a graduating senior at Johnsonburg Area High Scool will be set up through the Elk County Community Foundation. If desired, contributions should be made to the foundation in his name by sending your donation to the Elk County Community Foundation, 111 Erie Ave., St. Marys, Pa. 15857.
Monday, January 18, 2021 Page 38 of 56 Brother Class Year Passed Notes
Robert Hartz 1962 2013 Funeral information
Home: Lewiston, NY Place of Birth: Oil City, PA Date of Death: July 9, 2013 Birthdate: June 19, 1937 Age: 76
Service information:
Visitation: Monday, July 15, 2013 4 - 8 pm at Hardison Funeral Home, Lewiston, NY
Interment: Grove Hill Cemetery, Oil City, PA
Biography
Robert W. Hartz, age 76 of Lewiston, died Tuesday July 9, 2013 in Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester, NY after a brief illness.
Robert was born June 19, 1937 in Oil City, PA, the son of the late Robert C. and Geraldine (Carey) Hartz. He was a graduate of Oil City High School where he was an All American Basketball player. Robert received his B.S. Degree from Clarion University in Clarion, PA and his Masters in Education from Buffalo State Teacher's College. He enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1962 and was stationed in France for over two years. He was honorably discharged in 1965.
Robert was a science teacher in Western New York for 33 years. He began his career in the Sweet Home School District where he taught for three years. For the next 30 years Robert taught in the Wilson School District where he also coached baseball, track, and basketball, retiring in 1999. An accomplished musician, he had a band, "Bob Hartz & The Pacemakers" for 25 years. Robert also was active in many organizations, He was past Master of the Charlotteville Lodge #73 F&AM in Newfane; a member of the Elks Club in Lockport, the Lewiston Lions Club, the American Legion, Eagles Club, and the Polaski Club all in Oil City, PA; as well as the Shriners in Ft. Myers, Florida where he spent half the year. Robert was a 10 year member of the All Faiths Unitarian Congregation in Ft. Myers and also played drums in its resident band. Robert was also a great lover of animals, a life member of the Musicians Union, an avid golfer, and an extreme fan of the Pittsburgh Steelers.
He is survived by his companion of 11 years, Carol Sommer and her daughter, Michele Ninacs; his children, Robert P. Hartz of Wilson, James D. (Amy) Hartz of Kenmore, NY, Michael C. Hartz of Buffalo, NY, Elizabeth Hartz of Tonawanda, and Bryan Hartz of New Paltz, NY; and his grandchildren, Emma, Joshua, and William. A Masonic Service will be held in the funeral home at 7:45 pm followed by Military Honors. Burial will be private in the Grove Hill Cemetery, Oil City, PA
Monday, January 18, 2021 Page 39 of 56 Brother Class Year Passed Notes
Robert Hess 1962 2016 Robert E. Hess, 76, of Fern, a retired Allegheny-Clarion Valley High School teacher and well-known area businessman passed away peacefully on the morning of April 1, 2016 surrounded by his loving family and pets. Born on January 26, 1940 in Oil City, Mr. Hess was the son of the late Edward E. and Margaret Bellis Hess. He was a graduate of Clarion Area High School class of 1957. He continued his education at Clarion State College majoring in history, social studies, and English education. After sustaining an injury, he was able to express his love of football by becoming student assistant coach for the Golden Eagles football team. Mr. Hess graduated from Clarion State College in 1962 with a degree in secondary education. While studying at Clarion State College, he met Kathleen Caylor of Punxsutawney, and they married on June 22, 1963. The couple made their home in Kittanning and Mr. Hess became a teacher in the Ford City School District. Soon after, they moved to the Fern area to start their family and to collaborate with his father, Edward Hess, in creating Hi-Level Golf Course. It was the first public 18-hole golf course in Clarion County. Mr. Hess attended the PGA (Professional Golf Association) School to become a certified golf instructor. His golf lessons at Hi-Level introduced many new players to the game of golf. In 2015 the third-generation family business celebrated its 50th anniversary. Mr. Hess continued teaching at nearby Allegheny-Clarion Valley High School in Foxburg. He retired from there in 1993 after a career that included more than 30 years of teaching. He was a member of Fern Trinity E.C. Church and had served as Board President and Trustee. Mr. Hess was President of Fern Trinity E.C. Cemetery Association. His community involvement also included membership in Clarion Masonic Lodge No. 277 F. & A. M., New Castle Consistory and Zem Zem Shrine in Erie. He was Past President of the Clarion County Shrine Club, and Past President and Past Captain of Clarion County Trykes. Robert had also been a member of the Fryburg Sportsman’s Club, Clarion Moose Lodge 101, Fraternal Order of Eagles of Clarion, the American Legion, Clarion Rotary, and the National Rifle Association. He was a loyal member of Alpha Gamma Phi fraternity at Clarion University and enjoyed hosting their annual golf outing and reconnecting with his Gamma friends. Mr. Hess continued his lifelong love of learning as an avid reader, expanding his interest in subjects like history, politics and health. He enjoyed golfing, exercising, hunting, fishing, swimming, caring for his dogs and cats and horses, and visiting friends and family. Robert was a Steelers and Penn State fan and enjoyed cheering his grandchildren on at their various school sporting events. He is survived by his wife, Kathleen; and their four children: Melinda Hess, Brian Hess, Trina Hess, and Eric (Amanda) Hess; and five grand-children: Devin Hess, Amber Hess, Ellis Painter, Gracee Hess and Maylee Hess; a niece, Colleen Burke; and five nephews: Mickey Reefer, Michael Caylor, James Caylor, Robert Caylor, and Rick Caylor. In addition to his parents, Robert was preceded in death by a brother-in-law, Harry (Mick) Reefer of Rural Valley; and his father- and mother-in-law, Claude and Helen Caylor of Punxsutawney.
Monday, January 18, 2021 Page 40 of 56 Brother Class Year Passed Notes
Louis Hutcherson 1962 2016 Brother Louis “Hutch” Hutcherson Sr. 75, quietly departed this life Tuesday, February 16, 2016. He was born on May 19, 1940 in Pine Run, Pennsylvania to the late Hubert Hutcherson Sr. and Josephine (Johnson) Hutcherson.
At a very young age Louis’s parents moved to Vandergrift, where he received his adolescent education from the Vandergrift School System, currently known as the Kiski Area School District. Also, as a child his father nicknamed him “Bumma”, from then on, his family and friends affectionately called him, “Bumma Lou” or “Lou Hutch”.
Early in life, Lou exemplified consistency in leadership, as well as, exceptional athletic ability. His athletic ability became evident in high school, where he played varsity baseball, basketball and football. And in turn made a name for himself in football as the First African American Quarterback in Vandergrift’s High School history.
He continued his education by attending Clarion State College, currently known as Clarion University of Pennsylvania and he once again led the school's football team as quarterback. Later in life he was not only rewarded for his high school accomplishments by being inducted into the Allegheny-Kiski Valley Sports Hall of Fame, but he was also included, as a 1993 inductee, into the Clarion University Sports Hall of Fame. While attending Clarion, Lou met and married his college sweetheart, Nancy Chandler.
As a young man, Lou dreamed of becoming a Pennsylvania State Policeman, however he had never seen an African American State Police Officer before, but that didn't hinder him! In 1963, he applied and was accepted as a cadet at the Pennsylvania State Police Academy in Hershey, Pennsylvania. Lou Hutcherson became the First African American Pennsylvania State Policeman in Western Pennsylvania on September 3, 1964. Lou was promoted through the ranks and after 33 years of service he retired in 1998.
Lou being a man of leadership and skill, retirement didn’t last long. He became a Consultant and later Chief of Police for the Pittsburgh Housing Authority Police Department in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania where he proved to be a major contributing factor in the revamping of their policies and procedures.
A few years, later he and Nancy moved to Eatonton, Georgia where they became “Snowbirds.”
After being in Georgia only a few months, Lou once again served in the area of Criminal Justice as an investigator, but soon realized he was not interested in continuing in that line of work, he preferred retirement, fishing and playing golf with the boys!
Although he wasn't idle long, Louis soon became bored and accepted a part-time position as Bailiff for the Putnam County Court System in Georgia.
Deacon Louis Hutcherson accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior at First Baptist Church of North Vandergrift, Pennsylvania. Here he served on several ministries and boards such as, Usher Board, Senior Choir and Men’s Choir, Trustee Board, Financial Board and Superintendent of Sunday School. Of all his accommodations, the most rewarding was that of an ordained Deacon, a spiritual role he continued at Flagg Chapel Baptist Church in Milledgeville, Georgia.
Lou was also affiliated with, the Fraternal Order of Police, 100 Black Men, Men and Women of Justice, The Guardians, as well as, a previous member of the Masons.
Lou's reputation has been that of a dynamic leader and servant, who has always maintained great integrity. Of all of his accomplishments, his total enjoyment and fulfillment came from spending time with his wife, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and extended family. He was a man that loved family and all of his family loved him.
Louis was preceded in death by his parents, a brother Jimmy, and two sisters, Mae Thula Jackson and Wanena Hutcherson Nabors.
He leaves to cherish his memory, his wife Nancy of 55 years, three daughters, Deanne (Brandon) Thomas of Ellenwood, Georgia, Denise (Cedric) Wright of Conyers, Georgia, Deborah Butler of Conyers, Georgia, two sons, Louis Jr. of New Haven, Connecticut and James (Jennifer) of Tybee Island, Georgia. H e also leaves eleven grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, a brother Hubert Jr. (LaRue) of Vandergrift and a sister Caroel (Rev. Robert) Mills of New Castle, Pennsylvania, a foster brother, William Smith of Vandergrift and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and many, many friends.
Monday, January 18, 2021 Page 41 of 56 Brother Class Year Passed Notes
George Ihnat 1962 2016 George T. "Iggy" Ihnat, 76, of North Huntingdon, passed away Wednesday, Feb. 10, 2016. He was born Jan. 17, 1940, in Wall, a son of the late John and Mary (Evan) Ihnat.
He was a teacher at the East Allegheny School system for more than 37 years. He was a member of St. Angela Merici Catholic Church, White Oak, and the Alpha Gamma Phi fraternity.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, John Ihnat. He is survived by his wife of more than 55 years, Mary Jo (Coyne) Ihnat; sons, Bruce Ihnat and Jeffrey (Cheryl) Ihnat, both of North Huntingdon; grandchildren, Calynn, Devin, Abigail and Isabelle; and a sister, Mary Janice (John) MacKinnon, of Huntingdon Beach, Calif.
Friends and family will be received from 2 to 4 p.m. Saturday at the WILLIAM SNYDER FUNERAL HOME INC., 521 Main St., Irwin, 724-863-1200. A private blessing service will be held in the funeral home.
Memorial contributions can be made to the Alpha Gamma Phi Scholarship Fund or the East Allegheny Education Association Scholarship Fund, 1150 Jacks Run Road, North Versailles, PA 15137. Richard Kilgore 1962 2016 Richard Lee Kilgore, 81, of New Kensington, died Sunday, April 3, 2016, in Oakmont Nursing Center and Rehabilitation. He was born Dec. 21, 1934, in Braeburn, son of the late Lester L. and Angeline (Papa) Kilgore, and was a lifetime resident of New Kensington.
Richard was proud to have served his country in the Air Force. After graduating from Arnold High School in 1954, attended Clarion University, was a member of Alpha Gamma Phi fraternity and served as Gamma President, graduating in 1962, with a master's in elementary education. Richard taught elementary children and became principal of the New Kensington-Arnold School District in 1968.
He took his passion for travel and became a traveling salesman for several companies which specialized in school district needs throughout Pennsylvania. He retired in 2002.
Survivors include his daughter and caregiver, Carrie Kilgore, of Natrona Heights; his son, Michael E. (Myra) Kilgore, of Shaler Township; three grandchildren; special friends, Ray Galie and Gene Collodi; and many other close friends. Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Mary Jane Spiering.
Family and friends will be received from 2 p.m. until time of service at 4 p.m. Wednesday in the FRANK F. GIGLER FUNERAL HOME, 2877 Leechburg Road, Lower Burrell, PA 15068. Pastor Harold M. Mele Jr. will officiate. Burial is private. Ronald McCoy 1962 2010 Brother Ronald M. McCoy, 76, of Butler died early Saturday morning Sept. 11, 2010 at the VNA Inpatient Hospice. He was born Oct. 20, 1933 in Cavittsville, Westmoreland County, a son of the late Joseph Stewart McCoy and Mae Harrover McCoy.
In 1952, he graduated from North Huntingdon High School, now Norwin, and went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in education at Clarion University in 1962. He later attended Slippery Rock College to achieve a master's degree in education. He retired as an elementary teacher for the Butler School District, where he taught for 38 years.
He proudly served his country in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War.
He was a member of St. Paul Catholic Church in Butler, the American Legion Post 117 and the VFW Post 249, along with the Elks Lodge 170 and the Butler Moose Lodge 64, all in Butler.
He also had coached American Legion Baseball teams in Butler and Lyndora for many years. He was an avid bowler and bowled in several leagues.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Marlu Grening McCoy. They were married from June 29, 1963, until her passing on Nov. 1, 2009. He also was preceded in death by a sister, Roseann Glasgow.
Surviving are two children, Mark and his wife, Sue McCoy of Sebastian, Fla., and Ronna Moore and her husband, Todd, of Massillion, Ohio; two beloved grandchildren, Alec and Abigayle Moore; four brothers, Victor (Judy) McCoy in Punta Gorda, Fla., Joseph (Patricia) McCoy of Brick, N.J., and Lawrence McCoy and Michael (Roberta) McCoy, all of Trafford; and a sister, Veronica (Robert) Topper of North Huntingdon. Edward Michel 1962 1962 Summer school accident
Monday, January 18, 2021 Page 42 of 56 Brother Class Year Passed Notes
Gary O’Brien 1962 2012 Windermere, Florida, passed away on May 20, 2012. Gary was born in St. Marys, Pennsylvania on November 5, 1940 to Harry Thomas "Jack" and Mary Loeffler O'Brien. He grew up in St. Marys and attended Clarion University, Clarion, Pennsylvania. Graduating in 1962. He later earned an MBA from Suffolk University, Boston, Massachusetts. He spent his professional career in the educational publishing field, retiring as Regional Vice President from SRA/McGraw-Hill in 2006. He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Marilyn (Follette); brothers, COL RET USAF H.T. O'Brien of Alexandria, Virginia and Francis Patrick O'Brien of Boise, Idaho, as well as several nieces and nephews. Per Gary's request, there will be no services. Cremation arrangements will be handled by Woodlawn Funeral Home, Gotha, Florida. In lieu of flowers donations to Samaritan Care Hospice of Orlando, 1300 Semoran Blvd., Suite 210, Orlando, Florida 32807 or a charity of your choice in memory of Gary, would be greatly appreciated. Ellery Panaia 1962 2006 On Jan. 18, 2006, of Cherry Hill, NJ, passed away at Presbyterian Medical Center in Phila., PA. Ellery was a self-employed Manufacture Rep for 43 years. He was also a resident of Cherry Hill for over 30 years. Ellery is survived by his loving wife Marilyn of 40 years. Three sons, Ellery III (Rosemary), Joseph, James (Rose). He is also survived by 1 grandchild, Ellery IV and two sisters Cecelia Panaia and Gloria Wersing. Chuck Snell 1962 2011 Date unknown 15 Death(s) are 4.08% of Total
Edward Killian 1963 2017
Fred Schimp 1963 2014
Alfred Silk 1963 2016 Brother Alfred Silk, 74, St. Michael, died March 22, 2016 at Rosewood Assisted Living Community, Richland. Born Oct. 13, 1941, in Windber, son of the late Andrew and Mary (Sachet) Silk. Survived by sister, Joan, wife of Edward Barron, Belle Vernon; nephew, Edward Barron, Jr., Belle Vernon; and great nephews, Edward III and Thomas James Barron. Alfred was a graduate of Adams Township High School Class of 1959 and Clarion University Class of 1963. He was a US Army Veteran of the Vietnam War and a retired guidance counselor from North Star Middle School. Upon retirement he worked as a security guard at MetLife. Member of American Legion Post 551, St. Michael; and Loyal Order of the Moose Lodge 349, Windber. Honoring his wishes funeral services will be private, Fr. Joseph Nale, officiating. Committal, St. Michael Cemetery, St. Michael. Chuck Zerbe 1963 2019 Brother Charles Robert Zerbe, 77, passed away on Wednesday, March 6, 2019 with his family by his side at UPMC Shadyside Hospital in Pittsburgh. He was born in Sargent, Elk County, on August 10, 1941 to the late Norman and Madeline (Preshak) Zerbe. Chuck graduated from Johnsonburg Area High School in 1959, and then went on to graduate from Clarion State College in 1963 where he was a member of the Alpha Gamma Phi fraternity. He was a member of St. Stephen Roman Catholic Church in Oil City. Mr. Zerbe taught science classes at Oil City Junior High School from 1963 until his retirement in 1996. In his spare time, he kept himself busy with multiple organizations and activities. He coached Oil City Junior High football, Cranberry Little League baseball, Steffee, Elementary basketball, and Cranberry American Legion baseball. He was also a member of the Lucinda Antler Club, Venango County Coon and Fox Club, and bowled in several leagues at Seneca Lanes for the past 41 years. Chuck loved to hunt, fish, golf, and travel to Myrtle Beach, but most of all, he adored and cherished his children and grandchildren. He was married on June 13, 1964 to the former Catherine Flanigan, and she survives. Also surviving are three sons: Patrick Zerbe and his wife Cynthia of Seneca, Timothy Zerbe and his wife Kelly of Seneca, and Christopher Zerbe and his wife Kathryn of Franklin; and his six grandsons: Brendan, Garrett, Devin, and Jordan, all of Seneca, and Colin and Conner of Franklin. He is also survived by his sister, Sandra Zerbe and her husband, Frank Meehan of Seneca; and numerous cousins in the Johnsonburg area. He was preceded in death by his parents, Norman and Madeline Zerbe. Lawerence Zinchini 1963 2013 Lawrence "Larry" ZINCHINI, 75, of Madeira Beach, died Nov. 12, 2013 at Cornerstone Hospice in Sumterville, FL from cancer. Memorial services will be announced at a later date. 5 Death(s) are 1.36% of Total
Edward Bednarczyki 1964 1970 1970's
Butch Dunlay 1964 2001 Retired Transportation Consultant for NYPD and Association, Kansas City Railroad and U.S. Steel Corp. Frank is survived by his children F. Charles Dunlay IV, Douglas Dunlay and April Dunlay.
Monday, January 18, 2021 Page 43 of 56 Brother Class Year Passed Notes
John Holodnick 1964 1991 Heart acttack
Edward Hooley 1964 2016 Brother Edward M. Hooley ‘64, age 73, of Claridge, died on Tuesday, October 18, 2016. He was born on January 20, 1943 in Greensburg, to the late Michael and Victoria (Maholeck) Hooley. He was a graduate of Penn-Joint High School and attended Clarion University. Ed retired from the Elliott Co. after 32 years of employment. He is survived by all of his close Maholic cousins and kids, including Carol, Edward, Christopher, Christe, Angela, Kyrie, Lance, Sheri, Tara, Ali, and Courtney; cousins Thomas Morris and Carl Huszar and family; and his special friend, Donna Pringle and her daughter, Donna. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a special cousin, Edward T. Maholic, Sr., who was like a brother to him. Ron Kalup 1964 2011 Ron, Age 72, of North Huntingdon, died Tuesday, March 29, 2011 at his home with his family by his side. Ron was born 29 May 1938 in Swissvale, PA, a son of the late Anthony and Mary Cencarik Kalup.
Ron was a member of St. Agnes Church, North Huntingdon, a graduate of Clarion University, class of 1964, and a member of Alpha Gamma Phi fraternity. After graduation his was a teacher for the McKeesport School District where he coached wrestling and football. Ron was a referee for both WPIAL and NCAA football. He also enjoyed family camping trips and traveling in his camper with his wife and children. He was a veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps.
In addition to his parents, Ron was preceded in death by one brother Anthony Kalup, two sisters, Mary Lou Kalup and Theresa Jadot.
Ron is survived by his beloved wife Melanie Mizerak Kalup; two sons, Ronald Jr. and his wife Suzanne of North Huntingdon, Thomas Kalup and his wife Tracy of Jefferson Hills and four grandchildren Alexandria, Samantha, Lindsay and Andy.
Friends will be received at the JAMES W. SHIRLEY FUNERAL HOME, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon on Thurs. 6-8 PM and Friday 2-4, 6-8 PM. A funeral mass will be celebrated Saturday at 10 a.m. at St. Agnes Church, North Huntingdon followed by entombment at Braddock Catholic Cemetery.
The family requests donations to be made to a charity of your choice in memory of Ron.
Ron was a Lifetime Member of the Gamma Alumni Association and is fondly remembered. Everrett Lawrence 1964 2000 Honorary member. Resident of Clarion. Mr. Lawrence was a true friend to our Fraternity for many years. His establishment was used by the Gammas to build their award winning floats. He remained a friend to many of our Brothers up until the end. Nick Radosevich 1964 2016
Joseph Shaw 1964 2015 Brother Joseph (Grand Socrates) P. Shaw 73, of Springdale, passed away Wednesday December 23, 2015 at UPMC St. Margaret's Hospital.
Joe was born August 24, 1942 in Pittsburgh to the late Joseph A. and Anne Harrison Shaw and has lived most of his life in this area.
He was a graduate of Clarion University and a devoted member of Alpha Gamma Phi fraternity – Joe was a “Gamma.”
He retired in 2002 as a Social Studies Teacher in the Fox Chapel School District.
Joe was an avid reader, a lifelong learner at the Univ. of Pittsburgh, enjoyed fishing, spending time with his Gamma Brothers at Clarion University and especially spending time with his family.
Survivors include: His wife Therese Lucatorto Shaw, 2 daughters, Rebecca Shaw and her husband Paul Arriaga of Northern Virginia and Jennie Shaw of Washington, DC, grandchildren Oscar and Daphne Arriaga, a sister Pamela Shaw and her husband Tom Roncevic of Canton, Ohio.
He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister Linda Parise.
Family will receive friends Sunday 2-4 and 6-8 in SPRINGDALE at the CHARLES B. JARVIE FUNERAL HOME INC. 801 Pittsburgh St. where services will be held Monday at 11am. Internment will be private. Joe wanted any donations to be given to the Alpha Gamma Phi Scholarship Endowment. Joseph Urban 1964 2006
9 Death(s) are 2.45% of Total
Monday, January 18, 2021 Page 44 of 56 Brother Class Year Passed Notes
John Bielick 1965 2019 Last Friday, 28 Jun we received a voicemail from Chris Bielick, informing us that Rocky has passed away.
As you all remember he fought long and hard trying to beat cancer over last few years. He was amazing regarding how hard he fought and how brave he was facing his journey.
He was a marathoner running races until he was diagnosed with this terrible disease. As weak and as sick as Rocky was, he still made the effort to attend our summer picnics and our annual Gamma Reunion at Homecoming. The trip from New Jersey was difficult, but having his loves for the Gammas, he made the trips.
Those Brothers close to Rocky know he was a great guy.
Rocky’s wife Chris said there will be no viewing and only a celebration of life party in Rocky’s honor on 11 Jul 2019, Thursday, from 4 to 8pm at the Captain's Inn, 304 E Lacey Rd, Forked River, NJ 08731. Chris said Rocky wanted everyone not to grieve but be happy and party in his honor.
John "Jack" R. Bielick, age 76, died peacefully at Community Medical Center in Toms River, NJ on June 28, 2019. He is survived by his wife Chris, his daughters Stacey and Kristen, his dear cousin Janet, and their families.
Jack was born in Irwin, PA and was an avid Steelers and Penn State fan despite having lived in New Jersey for most of his life.
He graduated from Clarion University and was a proud member of the Alpha Gamma Phi fraternity. He spent his career as a speech pathologist in Jackson Public Schools. Jack was an active member of the community who loved coaching, running, his vintage Corvette, driving, boating, traveling, and joking. He was a former president and member of the Point Pleasant Lions Club and a Citizen of the Year. Please join the family in celebrating Jack's life on Thursday, July 11 from 4pm to 8pm at the Captain's Inn, 304 E Lacey Rd, Forked River, NJ 08731. The family is grateful for condolences but declines flowers. Donations are welcome to a charity of your choice. Ronald Clayton 1965 2006 Ronald L. "Specs" Clayton, 68, of York, Pa., formerly of Jeannette, died Saturday, May 27, 2006. He was born April 30, 1938, in Claridge, a son of Mildred Stepnick Clayton and the late Edward E. Clayton. Prior to retirement, he was a district manager for American General Life Insurance. He was a U.S. Navy veteran and a former member of the First Baptist Church, Jeannette. He belonged to the Masonic Lodge of Camp Hill, VFW of Saxton, Clarion Wrestling Boosters, Penn Rod & Gun Club and Alpha Gamma Phi Fraternity. Specs was the First Westmoreland County Wrestling Champion in 1954, was a three-time county champion and became the head wrestling coach in Jeannette in 1966. In addition to his father, he was preceded in death by a twin brother, Donald Clayton; and a sister, Judy Loughner. He is survived by his wife, Patricia Hickey Clayton; two sons, Donald Clayton and his wife, Amy, of Milton, Fla., Michael Clayton and his fiancee, Pamela Craley, of York; two grandsons, Brock and Hunter Clayton; a brother, Jay Clayton and his wife, Carol, of Greensburg; and numerous nieces and nephews. Friends will be received from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday and 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Friday at the MASON-GELDER FUNERAL HOME INC., 201 N. First St., Jeannette. A funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday in the funeral home with Pastor Greg McDonald officiating. Interment will follow in the Twin Valley Memorial Park, Delmont. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Alpha Gamma Phi Scholarship Fund, P.O. Box 518, Export, PA 15632
Monday, January 18, 2021 Page 45 of 56 Brother Class Year Passed Notes
Larry Croyle 1965 2019 Larry died on Monday, April 29th after a six-year battle with renal failure. He was 76 years old. He is survived by his wife of fifty-three years, Diane Croyle; his two daughters, Rachel Schwartz of New York, NY and Megan Garson of Scarsdale, NY; his grandchildren Ezra and Eliza Schwartz and Samantha and Brooke Garson; and his sister, Sheli Wilson of Lakeland, FL. Larry was preceded in death by his parents, John and Alice Croyle; his brother, Darvin Croyle; and his daughter, Elizabeth Croyle.
Larry was born in Rimersburg, Pennsylvania to a father who worked the coal mines and a mother who was forced to leave school in eighth grade during the Great Depression to take a job. Larry was the first person in his family to attend college. In 1961. Larry was the quarterback for his undefeated high school football team and was ranked the number two quarterback in the state of Pennsylvania, second only to the number one ranked, Joe Namath. Larry obtained his undergraduate degree from Clarion State College where he was a member of Alpha Gamma Phi fraternity.
He went on to earn a Masters of Psychology from Duquesne University and then a Doctorate in Philosophy from the University of Pittsburgh. Larry taught history and coached the high school football team at Avonworth High School, then became an Administrator of Psychological Services at North Allegheny School District, a job he held for thirty-three years.
Through athletics, Larry became very involved in his community. He was the President of the McCandless Athletic Association and oversaw the construction of the McCandless-Vincentian field complex where children still play baseball and softball. He coached both his daughters on the softball field. Larry was also president of the PIAA Greater Pittsburgh Chapter of Basketball Officials. He refereed high school basketball games all over the city and even refereed basketball games between inmates at the Western Penitentiary.
When he retired from refereeing, he ran the clock during North Allegheny High School football and basketball games. Larry was an avid fan of all of Pittsburgh's sports teams.
About twenty years ago, Larry had the chance to retire to a beautiful beach community in South Carolina. He thought about it for a minute and said, "What would I do with my season tickets to the Steeler games?" He proudly stayed in his hometown and died a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother and Pittsburgher.
He will be remembered for helping and coaching countless students, serving his community and inspiring his family in the valiant way he fought for more time to spend with them. At Larry's request, there is no visitation or services. Robert Elders 1965 2007 Bob was a lifetime member but in poor health and unalbe to attend our reunions. However, he would call and we would discuss what transpired at our reunions and I (wayne Norris) could tell he missed the good old days. He was proud of our Fraternity and what we have accomplished. James Goodman 1965 1996
Joseph Hancharick 1965 2018 Joe was born on March 28, 1943 and passed away on Monday, May 28, 2018. He was a resident of Pennsylvania at the time of passing.
Joe was a 1961 graduate of Windber High School and 1965 graduate of Clarion State College.
Friends will be received from 2 to 4:30 and 6 to 8:30 p.m. Thursday at the Meek & Dalla Valle Funeral Home, Inc., Windber where Parastas will be held at 8:00 p.m. and where brief service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday followed by Funeral Divine Liturgy at 11:00 a.m. Friday at St. Mary Byzantine Catholic Church, Somerset Ave., Windber with Fr. Committal, with full military honors, will be held in the parish cemetery. Visitation at the Meek & Dalla Valle Funeral Home, Inc. from 2:00 AM to 4:30 PM on May 31, 2018.
Joe's wife Pam's contact info is
1763 Blythewood Loop
The Villages, FL 32162
804-445-3027 Rich Kutch 1965 1967 Auto accident
Monday, January 18, 2021 Page 46 of 56 Brother Class Year Passed Notes
Al Lefevre 1965 2008 Al "Bud" Lefevre, 65, Sayer Street, Brookville, died Friday at Brookville Hospital. Al Lefevre, an outstanding person, athlete, men’s golf coach and contributor at Clarion University, is being inducted for his outstanding contributions to Clarion University athletics before his passing in August of 2008. He took over the men’s golf program in the Fall of 1999 and in nine seasons led Clarion to PSAC team titles in the Spring of 2002 and the Fall of 2005, plus four second place finishes. He was the PSAC Golf Coach of the Year in 2002 and 2006, while his teams earned seven straight NCAA Division II East Regional Invitations from 2002 - 2008. The Golden Eagles were second at Regionals in 2006, third in 2005 and fourth in 2008. He coached many talented players during his tenure including 2003 Third Team All-American Matt Guyton who finished 7th at the D-II Nationals that year, and 2008 HM All- American Jared Schmader who is still playing. A member of the Clarion University Sports Hall of Fame Committee from 2002 -2008, Al was a proud member of the Alpha Gamma Phi Fraternity and a devoted football alumni at Clarion. Al played football for coach Al Jacks between 1961-64. In 1962 and 63 he was Clarion’s starting quarterback. In 1963 he passed for three touchdowns and ran for two more, before an injury ended his season, and ultimately his career. Al also had an extremely successful coaching career at nearby Brookville High School as the head football coach (1968-82) and the head or assistant golf coach there from 1965-99. A native of Tarentum, Pa., and a 1961 graduate of Tarentum High School, he was the Alle-Kiski Valley “Back of the Year” in 1960-61 before coming to Clarion. Al’s wife Bonnie resides in Brookville. The couple has two sons, Scott and Doug.*1965 Clarion University Grad - Speech Therapy
*2002-08 Clarion Sports Hall of Fame Committee
*Fall 1999 - Spring 2008 - Head Golf Coach (9 yrs)
*2005 & 2002 Clarion PSAC Team Champions
*2006 & 2002 PSAC "Coach of the Year"
*2002-08 Clarion- 7 Straight NCAA D-II Appearances
*Lefevre's Teams Own All Clarion Golf Records
*Clarion Golf PSAC Runners-up (4) East Region (1)
*1962 & 63 Clarion Starting QB
Born March 7, 1943, in Tarentum, he was a son of the late Alfred L. Lefevre Sr. and Mae Tomer Lefevre.
He married Bonnie Harkness Jan. 20, 1964, in Clarion. She survives.
He was a 1965 graduate from Clarion College with a bachelors degree and received his masters degree in speech pathology from Clarion. He was a school teacher and speech therapist for the Brookville Area School District for over 35 years and coached over 80 teams in boys football, golf and basketball.
After his retirement, he coached for nine years at Clarion University and led the Golden Eagles to several Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference championships.
He was a member of the Pinecrest Country Club in Brookville, where he was a past president and served on the board for 50 years. He was also a member of the Alpha Gamma Phi fraternity at Clarion University, served on the NCAA Men's Gold Competition Committee and enjoyed his community.
He was a member of the Immaculate Conception Church in Brookville.
He is survived by two sons, Scott Lefevre of Charlotte, N.C. and Doug Lefevre of Washington D.C., and two grandchildren. He was also preceded in death by one sister, Katherine Tusing. --- Al "Bud," Sayer Street, Brookville, died Aug. 8, 2008. Friends will be received from 6-9 p.m. today and from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. Monday at McKinney Funeral Home in Brookville. A funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. Tuesday at Immaculate Conception Church in Brookville with the Rev. Joseph Staszewski officiating. Burial will be in St. Marys Cemetery in Rose Township.
Memorial contributions can be made to Pine Crest Country Club Donor's Club, 29 W. Pinecrest Lane, Brookville, Pa 15825, Clarion University of Pa., Men's Golf Program, 840 Wood St., Clarion, Pa 16214.
Monday, January 18, 2021 Page 47 of 56 Brother Class Year Passed Notes
Robert Montrose 1965 2014 Robert H. Montrose Sr., 73, a lifelong Irwin resident, passed away suddenly Monday, Oct. 27, 2014, at home. He was born May 13, 1941, in Irwin, a son of the late Frank "Hank" and Margaret (McKelvey) Montrose, and was also preceded in death by his brother, Frank (the late Marianne) Montrose. Bob was a graduate of Norwin High School, class of 1959, and was an all-section shooting guard for the school basketball team. He was a retired employee of Westinghouse Energy Center, Monroeville, and operated Montrose Printing of Irwin. Bob was a member of LOOM Lodge and FOE Aerie, both of Irwin, the Jacktown Ride and Hunt Club and a social member of the Polish Brotherhood of the White Eagle, Jeannette, the American Legion Post 359, VFW Post 781, the North Irwin, Paintertown and Larimer Fireman's clubs and a social member of Alpha Gamma Phi fraternity at Clarion University and a cousin of brother Terry Koelsch. He was a hardworking family man and enjoyed playing golf. He is survived by his wife of 44 years, Kathleen E. (Behr) Montrose; children, Robin E. (Brett Sr.) Harper, of Irwin, and Robert H. (Rachele) Montrose Jr., of Lakewood, Ohio; grandchildren, Brett Jr. and Conner Harper and Shelby and Sydney Montrose; siblings, Lois (Ray) Myers, of North Huntingdon, and Jerry (the late Dawn) Montrose, of Manor; also nieces and nephews. Vince Nola 1965 2012 On this Monday the 16th, on traditional Tax Day, I have bad news to share. At 2:19 AM this morning Brother Vince Nola died in Holmes regional after suffering a stroke at 10:30 PM Nicholas Rebick 1965 2018 Brother Nicholas G. Rebick, 74, of Greensburg, died Tuesday, June 26, 2018 in UPMC Mercy Hospital, Pittsburgh.
He was born September 16, 1943 in Greensburg, a son of the late Nicholas and Pearl Rose (Massina) Rebick. He was a member of Blessed Sacrament Cathedral, Greensburg.
He was also a member of Alpha Gamma Phi Fraternity, PSERS, National Association of Secondary School Principals, and the Youngwood Sportsman’s Association.
Nick received a Bachelor of Science in education from Clarion University, a Master of arts from West Virginia University and a secondary school certificate.
He started his career when he was hired by Hempfield Area School District in 1965 teaching mathematics at Harrold Junior High School. He was later principal at Stanwood Junior High School, Wendover Junior High school, and ended his career as assistant principal at Hempfield Senior High School.
Nick also worked as a mentor for student teachers at Seton Hill University. He played baseball and football in high school and was a Boy Scout, receiving the Order of the Arrow.
He loved to participate in biking, swimming, jogging, reading and hunting with his dogs. He loved visiting with his daughter in Philadelphia. He loved his grandsons, who were the light of his life. He loved watching their sport activities.
In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by sister-in-law, Ida Rebick; brother-in-law, David Maine; and several aunts and uncles. He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Dianne L. (Martinko) Rebick; two daughters, Andrea Hoak and husband Rich and Elaine Rebick; two grandsons, Richard John Hoak, III and Jacob Nicholas Hoak; and his brother Louis Rebick.
Friends will be received from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 PM Thursday at the LEO M. BACHA FUNERAL HOME, INC., 516 Stanton Street, Greensburg. Prayers will begin at 9:00 AM Friday in the funeral home, followed by a funeral mass to be celebrated at 9:30 AM in Blessed Sacrament Cathedral, Greensburg. Interment will follow in Greensburg Catholic Cemetery. Www.bachafh.comJoin the Ron Repasky 1965 2013 Brother Ronald L. Repasky Sr., 71, of Greensburg, died Sunday, July 21, 2013, at his home. He was born Feb. 8, 1942, in Greensburg, a son of the late Albert M. and Mamie L. (Galetto) Repasky.
He was a member of St. Paul Parish, Greensburg. Ron attended Clarion University, was a member of Alpha Gamma Phi fraternity and Camp Atlast.
He is survived by his wife, Dorothy M. (Murtland) Repasky; their children, Diann Renee Repasky and her husband, Dale Scott, of Jeannette, Ronald Repasky Jr. and his wife, Jodi, of Greensburg, Rick Repasky and his wife, Adriene, of Greensburg, and Stephanie Hill and her husband, Clinton, of Greensburg; nine grandchildren, Kayla, Ricky, Dayle Riley, Cameron, Alexis, Joe, Jordan, Sydney and Dylan; a brother, Albert ''Rick'' Repasky and his wife, Debbie, of Daytona, Fla.; a sister, Michele ''Shelly'' Cochran and her husband, Dennis, of Greensburg; several nieces, nephews and cousins; and his best friend, Wayne Norris.
Monday, January 18, 2021 Page 48 of 56 Brother Class Year Passed Notes
Darrel Sheraw 1965 2014 Dr. C. Darrel Sheraw, 70, of Sligo passed away on Thursday, March 27th 2014 at the Clarion Hospital, surrounded by his loving wife of 46 years, his two sons and their wives. Darrel was born May 25th, 1943 in Greensburg, PA. The son of Charles A. and Mildred Mae Hemminger Sheraw.
He was married on August 7, 1967 to Norma Krause, who survives in Sligo.
Darrel was an English professor at Clarion University for 35 years, joining the faculty in 1977. His first connection with Clarion did not begin with his teaching career, however. He first came to Clarion as an undergraduate student earning his bachelor's degree. While there he was fortunate to have found a life changing mentor in Dr. Edward Grejda, who first recognized his love of teaching and ability to communicate his knowledge to others. With Dr. Grejda’s encouragement he completed his Masters and Doctorate degrees at Ohio University. His teaching career began at Alliance College in Cambridge Springs, PA where he served as the department chair for seven years. While there he started Studies in Contemporary Satire, which became the longest running academic satire journal. With Dr. Grejda’s encouragement, Darrel returned to his Alma Mater, Clarion, where he taught popular classes in mythology, comedy and satire, and his area of specialization: romantic poetry. Darrel’s enthusiasm and energy throughout all 70 years allowed him to pursue his many interests and talents. He earned an 8th degree black belt and taught karate in the Clarion area for 20 years. He had an interest in raising and showing rare waterfowl, developing a new breed that is now officially recognized internationally. He wrote three books on waterfowl and was an international waterfowl judge, having judged events in four countries with his best friend of over 40 years, Curtis Oakes of Cochranton, PA. He was also an avid gardener of over 100 varieties of hostas, to name just one of his plant specialties. One of Darrel’s greatest joys was collecting and restoring antiques. You could often find him at the local sales, antique stores and flea markets. He was always willing to share his vast knowledge and enjoyed helping others with many restoration projects. Darrel easily formed friendships and influenced the lives of many. One of his colleagues once referred to him as a true Renaissance man, which never failed to bring a smile to his face. His sharp wit and lively sense of humor will be missed by all who knew him. Darrel is also survived by his son’s Scott and Lynnette of York, PA; and Chris and Beki of Wappingers Falls, NY; also survived by a brother Dennis and his wife Gale Sheraw of the Virgin Islands. Proceeded in death by his parents. The Robert V. Burns Funeral Home in Clarion is handling arrangements. A memorial service in his honor is being planned for a future date to be announced. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in his name to The Grejda Education Scholarship Endowment c/o Clarion University Foundation, Inc., Seifert-Mooney Center, Clarion University of PA, 840 Wood Street, Clarion, PA 16214 A former Sigma Tau Darrel became a Gamma. Darrel gave a great speech at our class of 1965 reunion where he said one of the ten best things of the reunion was it was his last chance to be a Gamma Charles Thomas 1965 2015
14 Death(s) are 3.80% of Total
Kenneth McKee 1966 2020 Kenneth Cooper McKee, 76, of New Kensington, passed away peacefully Sunday, May 31, 2020. He was born July 1, 1943, in New Kensington, to the late Smith W. and Ida Cooper McKee.
Ken was a 1961 graduate of Ken-Hi, where he met his beloved wife, Janet. He also received his Bachelor of Science degree from Clarion University of Pennsylvania in 1966.
He was the director of communications at the former GPU, now FirstEnergy.
Ken enjoyed watching the Pittsburgh Steelers, reading, and watching movies. He loved spending time with his family.
Survivors include his wife of 55 years, Janet M. Mitchell McKee; children, Kelly (Barry) Jurgensen, of New Jersey, Scott (Kathy) McKee, of North Carolina, Meagan McKee Cronen, of New Kensington, and Patrick (Chelsey) McKee, of Maine; grandchildren, Allison Jurgensen, Adam (Caitlin) Jurgensen, and Kieran Cronen; great-grandson, Barry Grady; and siblings, Ann Chmiel, of Florida, and Smith C. (Miriam) McKee, of New Kensington.
Monday, January 18, 2021 Page 49 of 56 Brother Class Year Passed Notes
Donald Mikus 1966 2010 Age 66, of Bridgeville, passed away on February 20, 2010. Beloved husband of Jackie (Abrahms) Mikus; loving father of Beth, Michael and the late Kristin Mikus; son of Margaret "Peg" (Fink) and the late Otto "Bud" Mikus; brother of Launa (Dan) Garcia, Penny (the late Bill) Conn, Peggy Ann (the late George) Graham and Lori (Larry) Berti; also many nieces and nephews. Mr. Mikus worked as a librarian for Chartiers Valley School District for over 30 years, retiring in 1996. He served as President of Chartiers Valley Federation of Teachers for 13 years and was General Manager for 17 years of "Trader Jack's" Flea Market since its inception in 1991. Friends received Monday 7-9 p.m. and Tuesday 2-4 & 7-9 p.m. in the WARCHOL FUNERAL HOME, INC., 3060 Washington Pike, Bridgeville 412-221-3333. Service will be held Thursday at 8 p.m. Funeral Service will be Wednesday 10 a.m. in St. George Orthodox Church. Memorials to St. George Orthodox Church Building Fund, 610 Dewey Ave., Bridgeville, PA 15017. John Mills 1966 2012 Jack so cherished the Gammas that he annually drove the 1,200 miles from Hammond, LA to Clarion to make sure we had fresh gulf shrimp and oysters for our golf outing. Jack also did the hard work to get the “Gamma Beads” we use for the Homecoming Parade manufactured and delivered. He was a special Gamma.
Jack served in Vietnam in the Marine Corps and we shared many conversations about our Southeast Asia experiences. Once a Marine always and forever a Marine, Jack was heavily involved with the Commiskey-Wheat Detachment, Marine Corps League in Hattiesburg, MS. We talked often of the joy he had escorting veterans to Washington DC for memorial events. Semper Fi.
Jack Mills of Hattiesburg, formerly of Natrona Heights, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully Tuesday, 27 November 2012, at Forrest General Hospital. He was 70.
Born 20 July 1942, in Natrona Heights, Pennsylvania to Blair and Myrvle Mills, Brother Mills attended Har-Brack High School and graduated from Clarion University as a member of Alpha Gamma Phi Fraternity.
Jack worked primarily in the trucking industry the majority of his life. Most recently he substitute taught in St. Tammany Parish and within the Oak Grove School System.
He is also a member of the Commiskey-Wheat Detachment Marine Corps League.
He was of the Methodist faith. He enjoyed coaching various sports and especially enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren.
Loved by family and friends, he is survived by his wife, Mickey Mills; his youngest son Jeff Mills and his wife Paula and their three children Michael, Patrick and Kayleigh; his eldest son Brent Mills and his wife Michele and their two children Hayden and Brady; his brother Blair Mills and his wife Debbie (Pennsylvania); as well as nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents Blair and Myrvle Mills, and a sister Donna Rowe.
Jack brightened every life he touched and will be greatly missed by all.
Wake Hours: 10 am – 12 pm, Friday, November 30, 2012 at Forrest Funeral Home, 1258 Richburg Rd, Hattiesburg, MS 39401
Service: 12 pm, Friday, November 30, 2012 at Forrest Funeral Home
Note: In lieu of flowers donations may be sent to Commiskey-Wheat Detachment Marine Corps League P.O. Box 18290 Hattiesburg, MS 39404-8290 Phil Orosz 1966 2014 Died: August 26th, 2014
Felix Persi 1966 2005 15 Feb 2005 William Powell 1966 2017
Monday, January 18, 2021 Page 50 of 56 Brother Class Year Passed Notes
Guy Rippole 1966 2005 Former Montour and West Allegheny assistant coach Guy Rippole was passionate about football at the high school level. One of Rippole's last public appearances came Nov. 18 when he addressed the Montour School Board about the need to hire the right football coach after the resignation of Bruce Byrom. Rippole, 60, died Jan. 13 after suffering a heart attack. Funeral services were held last week at Musmanno Funeral Home in Stowe Township. Rippole , a Kennedy Township resident, recently retired as a school teacher at Sto-Rox School District. He wanted to see Montour's football program return to the glory days of the 1960s and 1970s. He asked the school board to take the necessary time to find the most qualified coach in order to compete with established programs such as Blackhawk, Hopewell, Moon Area and West Allegheny. "I am a retired school teacher and football coach," said Rippole. "Athletics and extracurricular activities have an effect on the students. For eight years, I saw that effect. You have a duty to do research on candidates and get the best person in here. This is the initial stage." While at West Allegheny, Rippole was the defensive coordinator for a team that won four WPIAL championships and one PIAA title. He helped develop the talents of Tyler Palko, who is currently the starting quarterback for the University of Pittsburgh. Rippole asked the school board to consider hiring a dietician and training coach to help improve the performances of football players during the fall season. "We have the facilities," said Rippole. "West Allegheny is one of the few programs to hire a dietician and training coach. She is responsible for having the weight room and gym open when the coaches need it." Rippole was also an assistant coach at Montour and head football coach at Sto-Rox where he was an integral part of competitive programs. "I coached with him in girls' softball when our girls went to school together, and I talked about football with him quite a bit," said Montour Athletic Director Mitch Galiyas. "He knew all facets of the game. He liked to coach defense more and knew both sides of the ball. He was a great family man and teacher. He just related well with young people. He coached the kids on Sunday night when the players watched game films." Galiyas remembered Rippole as an intense man with a desire to do things right and within reason. Rippole was on the Montour staff under former Montour coach Gerry Solomon during then late 1980s and early 1990s. "He never wanted to give kids too many choices," Galiyas said. "He didn't want to make them feel responsible for choices. He was a designer of the Spartan defense in the late 1980s and mid-1990s. People will remember his teams playing well. Guy complimented Gerry. They were a reflection of team excellence." Rippole left Duquesne University as an assistant coach in the late 1990s to become an assistant coach at West Allegheny High School where he handled the defense and worked with Palko. "Guy was the consumate professional on and off the field," said West Allegheny Athletic Director Dave McBain. "He cared deeply about the kids and his family obviously. I have known him for 17 years. I broke in (the business) with him when he started at Montour in 1987 and 1988." McBain got to know Rippole's methods even better when he coached wide receivers on his staff at Sto- Rox. "All three of his kids were there and they were great people and athletes," said McBain. "He left a legacy for other coaches to follow. He was a child advocate. He stuck up for the kids and what needed done. He was special to a lot of people on the field and off. He will never be forgotten." Rippole was on the West Allegheny staff when Bob Palko was beginning to establish himself as one of the best football coaches in the area. "He was defensive coordinator and he listened to the other coaches," McBain said. "He wasn't so single minded where he didn't take suggestions. I spent time with him inside and outside of the program and he knew the game so well. He had an uncanny ability to dissect the opposing team's offense. He saw the best talent we had and matched up the best coverages. It was a seemless and flawless execution." Many of Rippole's football players would go through a brick wall for him because he was somebody special. "I will always remember him as being approachable and he loved to laugh," said McBain. "If it was a tough situation, he knew how to laugh at himself. No one was perfect in the world. He knew how to have fun with things and then make it business. He came to work every day. He put his time in and then some. He left everything on the field when he coached. He made better athletes and was better for Pittsburgh."
Monday, January 18, 2021 Page 51 of 56 Brother Class Year Passed Notes
Bill Sike 1966 2012 Brother William M. Sike, age 68, a 41 year resident of Moon Township, formerly of Coraopolis, passed away peacefully on Saturday, December 8, 2012 at his home surrounded by his loving family.
He was born in Sewickley on Feb. 9, 1944 to Mary (Ferrara) and the late William Sike. Beloved husband of 47 years to Judith (Chatlos) Sike; cherished son of Mary (Ferrara) Sike of Coraopolis; loving father of Mark E. Sike (Michelle) of Robinson and Melissa Sike-Johnson (Art Johnson ) of Atlanta, GA; devoted grandfather of Mackenzie and Mason Sike; brother of the late Marilyn Meskow; and his beloved companion, the late Prince .
Bill was a1962 graduate of Coraopolis High School, a 1966 graduate of Clarion University- major education, obtained his Masters from Duquesne University in Education and Guidance Counseling. Upon completion of his undergraduate degree, he taught in the StoRox School District and the Coraopolis School District.
In the Coraopolis School District, he became the Guidance Counselor moving to Keystone Oaks where he retired. After retirement, he worked as a financial consultant for Joe Rykell and Associates.
Visitation Thursday 3 PM to 8 PM at Copeland's Moon Township, 981 Brodhead Rd. where Father Andrew Fischer will conduct a Blessing Service at 7 PM.
Entombment will be private at Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Hopewell. In lieu of flowers, family suggests donations in his name to the Humane Society or the Multiple Myeloma Research. Paul Wolery 1966
9 Death(s) are 2.45% of Total
Robert Castagna 1967 2019 Robert Charles Castagna, 74 of Center Twp. Passed away peacefully on May 6, 2019.
He was born September 8, 1944 in Clairton, PA and was the son of the late Dominick and Genevieve (Dolfi) Castagna. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by a brother, Richard Castagna, two sisters-in-law: Roslyn Castagna and Kim Casoli, a brother-in-law, Donald Casoli and his mother-in- law and father-in-law: Dan and Delphine Casoli.
Bob was a graduate of Thomas Jefferson High School, Clarion State College and Youngstown State University. He honorably served in the United States Army. Bob was a math teacher, assistant principal and athletic director at Aliquippa High School for over 28 years. He finished his career in education as a high school principal at both Western Beaver and Montour school districts.
Above all, Bob was truly a family man. His family was the most important part of his life. Spending time with them on vacation, family dinners, sharing special occasions and attending his grandson’s activities were priceless to him.
Surviving are his wife Dana (Casoli) Castagna, a daughter and son-in-law, Kristen and Ambrose Boni, a son, Dr. Daniel Castagna. Four grandsons who Bob cherished and adored: Dante Castagna, Ambrose III, Antonio and Angelo Boni. He is also survived by a brother Dominick Castagna, three sisters and three brothers-in-law: Susan and Lenny Keys, Karen Carper, Diane and Ken Suss, David Casoli, a sister-in-law Dolores O’Toole and numerous nieces and nephews. Edward Cisek 1967 2009 1966 All-PSAC Offense, Edward F. Cisek, 64, of Rural Ridge, Indiana Township, died suddenly Thursday, Oct. 1, 2009, in UPMC St. Margaret. He was born May 3, 1945, in New Kensington, and was the son of the late Frank and Helen (Whitico) Cisek. Ed graduated from the former East Deer- Frazer High School Class of 1963, where he played basketball and was captain of the football team. He also played American Legion baseball. At the World Softball Tournament, when he was 15 years old, he played softball with Jim's Sports Shop, Swissvale area, and won the world title. He attended Clarion University from 1963 to 1967, and remained active with the alumni association and was a member of the Alpha Gamma Phi Fraternity Alumni. He played football at Clarion and in 1966 won the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference. For 33 years, Ed worked at Westinghouse Corp. Energy Center as an engineering aide and remained working as a consultant with Westinghouse the past five years. He continued to play professional softball with the Pittsburgh Hard Hats; past officer and head trustee of the Slovak Club, Creighton; member of the Krivan Club, Springdale, and Owls Club, Russellton; and a member of the former Creighton Hose Fire Department. Ed was a member of Holy Family Roman Catholic Church, Creighton. His favorite pastime was restoring antique and classic automobiles. Ed especially enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren. Survivors include his wife of 42 years, Barbara (Demelco) Cisek; sons, David E. (Robin) Cisek, of Rural Ridge, Indiana Township, and Michael R. (Amy) Cisek, of Allison Park, Hampton Township; grandchildren, Lillian Francis Cisek and Brad, Bailey and Bethany Cisek; and a sister, Barbara Jean Cisek, of Springdale.
Monday, January 18, 2021 Page 52 of 56 Brother Class Year Passed Notes
Lyno Colangelo 1967 2016 Al Colangelo passed away the evening of Tuesday, January 12. I'm going to try to explain the best I can as to what happened so you are not all wondering how he passed. Al died from a Pulmonary Embolism.
He was having difficulty breathing throughout the day. I went to lay down about 8:00 pm and heard Al on the phone in the living room around 10:00 pm giving someone our address. I guess he didn't want to bother me or wake me up but I am a light sleeper. When I heard him on the phone giving someone our address I immediately got out of bed as I suspected he was calling 911. Al was sitting in his recliner in the living room calling 911. They arrived around 10:00 pm. They lifted him onto the gurney to transport him to the hospital.
The paramedics started to roll the gurney to take him to the ambulance when I noticed Al gasp and by his facial expression I noticed something was wrong. I told the paramedics to stop that something was wrong. He had stopped breathing. The paramedics immediately started CPR. They continued CPR for about 15 minutes in our living room and then rolled him out to the ambulance still continuing the CPR the whole time.
Al's brother (William) came to pick me up and we drove to the ER hoping that Al would be stabilized or in surgery. When we got to the hospital the ER doctor said he pronounced Al dead at 10:57 pm. One of the paramedics that worked on Al came by to give us his condolences and to tell us what happened. In the house as they started CPR the paramedic told me that it looks like this is a "pulmonary embolism". He wanted me to know that from the time I told them to stop that something was wrong, they were never able to get vital sign readings or a heartbeat. The paramedic wanted me to know that a blood clot probably hit the artery in the lung that is responsible for carrying blood to the heart. He said that Al died instantly at home.
They did CPR but Al was without oxygen for 45 minutes before they pronounced him dead. It was about 10:10 PM when Al stopped breathing.
Were there any warnings? He was feeling weak around Christmas time. I took him to the ER the day after Christmas and they did tests confirming a blood clot in the lower left leg and a clot in his lung. They put him on Coumadin to thin the blood. A nurse came by our house to check his Coumadin level Tuesday morning and said his blood was too thin. She said to stop the Coumadin for a few days until she comes back to retest. I really wasn't informed about blood clots. I thought he was good to go. Unfortunately, blood thinners don't work all of the time. Al had only been on Coumadin since Dec 26 when he went to the ER. He was feeling really weak lately, especially the day leading up to the pulmonary embolism.
Al was born in Rochester, Pennsylvania on Sept 17, 1944. We both grew up in Aliquippa, PA. We met in the summer of 1973. Both of us had spent time in California when we were single and decided that we would like to move there when we got married. Al moved to California April 1975. I followed with my job transfer in July 1975. We were married on November 8, 1975 in California. We just recently celebrated our 40th Wedding Anniversary.
I want to thank all of you for being part of Al's life.
Marie Colangelo Vaughn Fisher 1967 2000
Albert Ruffo 1967 2015 Albert F. Ruffo, 71, of Bovard, died Friday, May 1, 2015, in Aspinwall VA, Pittsburgh. He was born Nov. 19, 1943, in Youngwood, a son of Dorothy (Galando) McClosky, of Tennessee, and the late Reynold E. Ruffo. He graduated from Clarion University of Pennsylvania, class of 1967. He was a Vietnam War veteran, having served with the Army. He was a teacher at Mt Pleasant High School, a case worker for the Department of Public Welfare and the owner of Ruffos Bar for 20 years. He retired from Westmoreland County Housing Authority. He was a member of VFW No. 33, Greensburg. Surviving is his wife, Patricia A. (Chromeck) Ruffo; two sons, Jason and Josh; a grandson, Trevor and his mother, Kaylee; a brother, Reynold; three sisters, Connie, Nina and Diane; a brother-in-law, Tom; a sister-in-law, Dolores; fishing buddies, Dave and Conrad; and best friends, Jim and Sam. He was preceded in death by an infant brother, Christopher. 5 Death(s) are 1.36% of Total
Monday, January 18, 2021 Page 53 of 56 Brother Class Year Passed Notes
James Alcorn 1968 2021 Jim Alcorn, 75, of Irwin, passed away Wednesday, Jan. 13, 2021, in Forbes Regional Hospital, due to covid-19 complications. He was preceded in death by parents, Ruth and Matthew Alcorn. He is survived by loving wife of 52 years, Jackie Faust Alcorn; and four children, Matt (Amy), of Chicago, Ill., Mike (Mary), of Palm Beach, Fla., Dan, of Bridgeville, and Jeannie Oberdorf (Doug), of Greensburg.
Also surviving are 11 amazing grandchildren, whom he adored, Jayne Lynn (Parker), Jack and Claire (fiance Greg) Oberdorf and Jimmy, Charlie, Molly, Betsy, Joe, Michael, Mark and Matthew Alcorn.
He is survived by two sisters, Carol Alcorn Lichty, of Laurel, Md., and Ruth Anne Mewhirter, of Penfield, N.Y.; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Jim was a standout athlete at Penn Hills High School and Clarion University and was drafted by the Cleveland Browns in 1968. He played for the Wheeling Ironmen and then started a teaching career at Penn Hills School District.
An outstanding quarterback at Clarion in 1966 and 1967, Alcorn led the Golden Eagles to their first PSAC gridiron championship in 1966 and Western Division Titles both years. In 1966 he led Clarion to a 10-0 record while completing 125 of 209 passes for 1,925 yards and 26 touchdowns (26 TD passes still stands as Clarion and PSAC records). In 1967 he completed 149 of 271 passes for 1,953 yards and 15 TDs. His two-year career stats saw completion of 274 of 480 passes (57.1 %) for 3,878 yards and 41 touchdowns. Clarion had a two-year record of 18-2. Honors over that period included Curbstone Coaches Player of the Year in 1966, MVP both years, Little All-American, All-Conference, and All-East, among many others. He also earned two basketball letters and once scored 44 points in a single game.
He was a member of Christ's Church Greensburg where he was an usher and server at salad bar events.
In his retirement, he was dedicated to supporting children and grandchildren in countless athletic endeavors and other activities. His best days were at family gatherings and on the golf course. His positive, loving attitude and a smile for everyone are a legacy that will be cherished by family and all who knew him.
There will be no viewing and private services were held. KEPPLE-GRAFT FUNERAL HOME was entrusted with the arrangements. Memorial contributions can be made to Christ's Church Anglican, Greensburg, or Clarion University Foundation with Clarion University Football on the memo line. Blair Brant 1968 2018 Yogi was a member of the Golden Eagles football team and as Brother Garritano says “Yogi was a blast to play football and go to school with. I was there when Yogi sold his first book. I chuckled when he hired so many Gammas and teammates to buy books at campuses.”
Yogi was a very active Gamma and was elected fraternity President.
Blair Edward Brant, 73, of Stoystown, died May 4, 2018 at Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center, Johnstown. Born February 5, 1945 in Somerset County, he is the son of Howard Jacob and Annabelle (Maust) Brant. Preceded in death by his parents, wife the former Lynn Schuster who died July 7, 2012, and brothers Donald, William and Jack Brant. Survived by his daughter Terri-Lynn Brant of Downingtown, sisters and brothers; Jean Welshons of Ligonier, Ronald L. Brant and wife Sue of Longview, WA, Faye Growden of Ft. Lauderdale, Debra Durstine and husband Rodger of Greensburg, and Sharon Graff and husband Bill of Homer City. Blair was a 1963 graduate of Somerset High School, and a graduate of Clarion University where he was a member of the Alpha Gamma Phi fraternity. He worked until his retirement with over 40 years of Service for Follett High Education Group. He was a member of FOE Aerie 1801, enjoyed the outdoors where he would hunt and fish; and loved spending time with his dogs Fritz and Chase. Friends received 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Thursday at the Hauger-Zeigler Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Somerset, where a service will be conducted at 10 a.m. Friday with Reverend Barry K. Ritenour officiating. Entombment St. Clair Cemetery. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to Somerset Humane Society PO Box 182, Somerset, PA 15501. www.haugerzeigler.com DeWayne Hilton 1968 2019
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James Holleran 1968 2009 Long time resident of East Pittsburgh, age 63, on Fri., Feb. 27, 2009. Jim was a Navy Veteran of the Vietnam War Era and a graduate of Clarion University. For 25 years he was a teacher in the Grandview Elementary School in Mt. Washington, Pittsburgh School District. Jim also was the head basketball coach for Lawrenceville Catholic High School from 1979 to 1986, where he received numerous coaching awards. His 1985 Lawrenceville Catholic Team won the WPIAL Class A Championship and was the runner-up in the PA State Championship Game. Brother of Rich Holleran (Barbara) of Monroeville, William Holleran (Peachy) of East Pgh., Virginia Friend (Bill) of Forest Hills and Bob Holleran of Castle Shannon. Uncle of Billy, Danny, Steven and Danielle Holleran, Melissa, Roseanne and Brian Friend, Patrick and Todd Holleran. Grand-uncle of Alexa, Robert, Jacob, Brett and Garett Holleran. Former spouse and best friend of Lorraine Bertha-Holleran of Whitehall. Preceded in death by parents William "Bud" and Anna Marie Holleran. William Lee 1968 2000
Dave Louder 1968 2015
Dennis McNally 1968 2000
John Wall 1968 2016 Brother John "Jack" Edward Wall, 69, of Nevillewood, formerly of Upper St. Clair, died peacefully at home on Saturday, Feb. 27, 2016, surrounded by his beloved family.
He was born in Pittsburgh on Nov. 2, 1946, to the late Clare and John E. Wall. Jack leaves behind his devoted wife, Diane; and three loving daughters, Deborah, Colleen Cooney (Tim) and Brenda. He also leaves his three cherished grandchildren, Brady, Jack and Declan. In addition, he is survived by his brother, Brien Wall (Patty), of Upper St. Clair; and many nieces and nephews.
After graduating from Clarion in 1968 and later from Duquesne Law School in 1973, Jack spent his entire 43-year career as a trial attorney with the Pittsburgh based law firm of Dickie, McCamey & Chilcote. His professional excellence and integrity earned him election into the American College of Trial Lawyers in 1995. He will be deeply missed by his family and many friends. 8 Death(s) are 2.17% of Total
Daniel Bailey 1969
Wayne German 1969 2011 Richard Wayne German, 66, of Plum, died peacefully after a courageous battle with multiple sclerosis Sunday, Nov. 6, 2011, at his home surrounded by his loving "Girls" and family. He is survived by his beloved wife of 45 years, Marilyn (Campbell) German; and his loving daughters, Nicolle German (Chris Strzelecki) and Kimberly (Richard) Harris; also the light of his life, his grandson, Ryan Richard Harris. He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Minnie Mabel German; brother of Ruth Ann (Hans) Diekhoff, Martha Jane (Hal) Parker, Alfred "Lee" (Patty) German and the late Lewis "Lewie" German; also survived by many nieces and nephews and loyal friends. Mr. German retired from the Plum School District, where he served as a teacher, coach and mentor to his students for many years. He will be greatly missed and always remembered for his story telling, his smile and his constant positive attitude. Friends will be received from 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday and 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Friday at MAURICE L. KNEE LTD. FUNERAL HOME, 7663 Saltsburg Road (across from S&T Bank), Plum, PA 15239, where a funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday. Interment to follow in Plum Creek Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the German family suggests memorial contributions to "Operation Smile," 6435 Tidewater Drive, Norfolk, VA 23509. John Lukacs 1969 2005
3 Death(s) are 0.82% of Total
Dale Hensel 1970 1970 Killed serving his country in Vietnam 1 Death(s) are 0.27% of Total
Michael Bozick 1971 2020 Michael C. Bozick, 71, of Marianna, Deemston Borough, passed away unexpectedly Thursday, December 3, 2020, in his home.
Funeral arrangements are incomplete and will be announced by the John B. Greenlee Funeral Home Ltd., Beallsville. Thomas Bridge 1971 2001 Tim was a director of the Mental Retardation unit, Mayview State Hospital. Tim is survived by his wife Sandy and children Matthew, Megan and Marcus
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Willaim V. Falello 1971 2004 Teacher, North Hills School District
Charles Koval 1971 2001 Former member of the Clarion Football team. Chuck was Vice President of Master Lee Corporation and was very successful in his business ventures which encompassed operations in North America and Europe. Chuck was also a substantial contributor to the Scholarship fund. Chuck is survived by his fiancé Angela Maholic and two children Nicholas Koval and Samantha McDade. Lee Vrcek 1971 2002
5 Death(s) are 1.36% of Total
Dennis Stock 1972 2003 Dennis died suddenly on January 11, 2003 at Ft. Bliss, Texas while on assignment. Dennis is survived by his wife Carol and daughters Erica and Stephanie. 1 Death(s) are 0.27% of Total
Mark Mileski 1973 2006 Have no further information. 1 Death(s) are 0.27% of Total
Frank DeFina 1975 2015 Frank Paul DeFina, 61, of Plainsboro, NJ, passed away on Sunday, July 26, 2015, at Allegheny General Hospital in Pittsburgh, PA.
Born in Brackenridge, PA, Frank came to Plainsboro with his family in 1999. Frank enjoyed a long career in the security industry. He was a renowned and highly respected security executive, having worked for companies such as Panasonic, Samsung, and Hikvision. Frank was a beautiful, kind, and generous soul who helped and mentored many people over the years. He was an avid guitar enthusiast and musician, and enjoyed fishing and spending time at his family's cabin in Pennsylvania. Above all else, Frank was a devoted man who treasured time with his family and friends. Frank is survived by his loving wife of 38 years, Patricia A. DeFina; his sons and daughter-in-law, Frank and Cynthia DeFina, and James DeFina; his dear grandson, Frankie; his parents, Frank and Angelina DeFina; his sisters, Maria Colonna and Josephine Taddeo.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Frank's memory to Chronic Lymphatic Leukemia Foundation. A.S. Cole Son & Co. 22 N. Main St., Cranbury, NJ 08512 (609) 395-0770 James Fresch 1975 2018
Ron Stringer 1975 2003 Honorary member. Resident of Clarion. Mr. Lawrence was a true friend to our Fraternity for many years. His establishment was used by the Gammas to build their award winning floats. He remained a friend to many of our Brothers up until the end. 3 Death(s) are 0.82% of Total
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