Bisonalities Again

The Thundering Herd

A web site dedicated to the alumni, teachers, and administrators,
past and present, of Waterford and Fort LeBoeuf High Schools

Bisonalities Blog
August 1 - December 31, 2013

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Sunday, December 29, 2013 - 5:40 p.m.

Death of Jane M. Tupitza
Robison Teacher

Jane M. Tupitza, 90, of Pughtown and formerly of Erie, finished her work on this earth and peacefully, in her sleep, went home to heaven in the early hours of Monday, December 16, 2013.

She was the wife of the late William Tupitza, with whom she shared over 52 years of marriage. She was born in Jamestown, N.Y. to the late Sidney and Clara B. Markham. She was a graduate of Houghton College, Houghton, N.Y., with a degree in Christian Education, and she completed the courses for her elementary education certificate from Villa Maria College in Erie. She touched the lives of numerous young people as she served for many years as an elementary teacher at Robison School near Erie. She was a long time member, Sunday school teacher and board member of Wayne Park Baptist Church in Erie, and currently a member of Pughtown Baptist Church, Pughtown, Pa., where she served on board of deacons. She was an accomplished pianist, who often played for church, Sunday school, weddings or where ever music was desired. She loved to bake and share her Christmas cookies. She had many spiritual gifts, including serving and hospitality. She opened her home for a weekly Bible Study and regular church meetings.

She is survived by her children, James S. Tupitza and wife Harriett, of Embreeville, Pa., Barbara T. Boyes and husband Willard, of Highland Twp., Pa., Charles W. Tupitza and wife Cindy, of Warrenton, Va., and Marti T. Jameson and husband John, of Glenmoore; thirteen grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

Viewing and visitation with the family was held at Pughtown Baptist Church, 780 Pughtown Road, Spring City, PA 19475 on Saturday, December 21, 2013, followed by a memorial service. A private burial was held at Laurel Hill Cemetery, Erie, Pa.

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Sunday, December 29, 2013 - 11:40 a.m.

This year is the 40th Anniversary of Waterford Days , formerly called Heritage Days. It almost ended last year but an interim committee stepped up. This year, it is back where it belongs...being organized by the Fort LeBoeuf Historical Society, who were the originator of this fun annual event. Help is needed. If you can help with this important event, the points of contact are: JoAnne Lenart-Weary (jlenartweary@gmail.com) or Judy Nelson (msgrnjns1@aol.com).

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Sunday, December 29, 2013 - 10:40 a.m.

Louise Hailwood
Death of Louise June Moore Hailwood
WHS Class of 1946

Louise June Moore Hailwood, age 85, died Sunday, December 22, 2013 at her home in Waterford.

Born in Union City on June 12, 1928, she was a daughter of the late Forrest "Smiles" Moore and Chloeva Hicks Moore. Louise married James Tracy Hailwood on January 4, 1959 and he preceded her in death on September 29, 2011. She was a graduate of the Waterford Academy and a homemaker who enjoyed her numerous friends. Family members include four sons -- Forrest Craig, Joseph Hailwood, Kevin Hailwood and Kelvin Hailwood; a daughter -- Joyce Bakonyi; a son-in-law and daughters-in-law, seven grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.

A sister, Fran Vogt, preceded her in death.

A memorial service will be held January 4, 2014 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Peters Episcopal Church in Waterford. Memorial donations may be made to the St. Peters Episcopal Church Building Fund, 100 East 3rd Street, Waterford, PA 16441. Condolences may be sent at www.vanmatrefuneralhome.com.

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Saturday, December 28, 2013 - 4:15 p.m.

Sam Steen     Sam Steen
Death of Samuel Steen
FLBHS Class of 1962

Samuel D. Steen, age 69, of Erie, passed away on Saturday, December 21, 2013 while wintering at his home in Leesburg, Florida.

He was born in Erie on April 25, 1944, son of the late Urnah and RoseMary Hull Steen.

Sam was employed at Ervite/Metalade for over 30 years until his retirement. he was a veteran of the U.S. National Guard. Sam enjoyed hunting, playing horseshoes, and camping with his family. He attended Bethel Baptist and was affiliated with Grandview Alliance.

Sam was preceded in death by his first wife, Janice Steen one brother, Robert Steen, and one sister, Ruth Steen Dove.

He is survived by his wife, Audrey O'Keefe Steen; two sons, Scott Steen (fiancee Theresa Lafferty), and John Steen (Kimberly); one daughter, Sharon Burkett (Troy); one brother, Wayne Steen; four sisters, Dorothy Kozy (Don), Jane Rockwood (David), May Kraus (Don), and Martha Rockwood (Drew); one granddaughter, Tatum Burkett; three step-children, Bryan O'Keefe (Mary) Shelby Klins (Rick), and Heidi Ewing (John); nine step-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

Friends may call at the Dusckas Funeral Home, Inc., East, 2607 Buffalo Road, on Sunday from 2 to 5 and 7 to 9 p.m., and are invited to attend a funeral service there on Monday at 11 a.m., conducted by Rev. David Miles. Interment, Wintergreen Gorge Cemetery. To send condolences visit, www.dusckasfuneralhome.com.

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Tuesday, December 24, 2013 - 12:10 a.m.

L Lorainne Carter
Death of L. Lorraine Carter
FLBSD Secretary

L. Lorraine Carter, age 77, of Waterford, peacefully passed away on Saturday, December 21, 2013.

She was born September 2, 1936 in Mather, PA to parents Mary Ann Clark Devecka and Raymond (Dutch) Whoolery.

Lorraine was very proud that upon graduation from high school she worked at the Pentagon as a secretary for the US Navy JAG Division. She later worked as a secretary for Fort LeBoeuf School District, at both Robison and Central Elementary Schools, then at the Administrative Office until her retirement in 1998.

Lorraine was a member of the Mill Village United Methodist Church, and she was a den mother for the Mill Village Boy Scouts for many years. Shopping and dining out with friends and family were enjoyable highlights, as well as her participation in the Red Hat Society. Most of all, she loved being a wife, mother, and doting grandmother to her family, and participating in their celebrations of their lives.

In addition to her parents, Lorraine was preceded in death by her step-father, Milan (Max) Devecka, and her in-laws, James and Emma Carter.

Lorraine is survived and will be deeply missed by her husband of 56 years, James R. Carter; their two children, Sharon Troyer and husband Kevin of Waterford, and James Carter and wife Cindy (Motley) of Yuma, AZ; five grandchildren, Kylee Troyer, Colby Troyer, and Kamryn Troyer, Seth Carter and wife Amanda and her daughter Bella, and Travis Carter and wife Shannon.

The Carter family would like to express their extreme appreciation to Lorraine's special friends that made her days so much brighter: Rosemary Lugaila, Jeanne Van Zandt McClellan, Jackie Johnston, and Christy Roth.

Visiting hours will be at the Van Matre Funeral Home, 105 Walnut Street, Waterford on Thursday, December 26, 2013 from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. The funeral service will take place at the Mill Village United Methodist Church on Friday morning at 11:00 a.m. and will be officiated by Rev. Brian Switala. Burial will follow at Mill Village Cemetery.

The family suggests that memorial donations be made to the Therapeutic Riding Equestrian Center, 8342 Platz Road, Fairview, PA 16415.

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Sunday, December 22, 2013 - 11:00 a.m.

Death of Samuel Steen
FLBHS Class of 1962

I received the following from Anita Bretweiser Palmer this morning:

We lost another FLB classmate of 1962 yesterday afternoon. Samuel Steen husband of Audrey Dennington Steen who was also a 1962 classmate. Audrey and Sam were wintering in Florida at the time. He fell off a ladder last week and hit his head on the cement and was rushed to the hospital where he had surgery. When his children arrived he was doing somewhat better, but after they left to come back home he took a turn for the worse and passed away. No funeral plans have been made yet. Since it was a trauma there will have to be an autopsy before he can be sent home. I got this information from other classmates that winter in Fla in the same area as Audrey and Sam.

Editor's note: When (or if) I learn of any funeral arrangements and point of contact information for those who wish to send condolences I will post it here!

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Thursday, December 20, 2013 - 11:00 a.m.

Death of Sharon Chapman
FLBSD Nurse

Sharon Chapman

Sharon L. Chapman, 63, of Waterford, peacefully passed away Wednesday, December 18, 2013, at UPMC Hamot surrounded by her family after a courageous battle of an extended illness. She was born in Corry, Pa., on November 26, 1950, a daughter of June Perdue Hazen and the late Merle E. Hazen.

Sharon was a 1968 graduate of Clymer Central School. She graduated from the Hamot School of Nursing in 1971 and later received her Master's degree in nursing from Villa Maria College in Erie. She worked at Fort LeBoeuf School District as school nurse for 27 years touching the lives of many children. She retired from the school district in 2010. She also worked alongside her husband on the family dairy farm in Greene Township.

She served on several volunteer organizations, including Girl Scounts, 4-H, and Erie County Dairy Princess Committee. She was a member of Prince of Peace Lutheran Church and West Greene Community Church. She was past Worthy Matron of America Chapter 19 Order of the Eastern Star. Sharon enjoyed the neighborhood monthly card club, the Bonnells Corners Club, the Friday morning Breakfast Club at Jake's on the Park, golfing with her dear friends on Tuesday mornings, and volunteering in her daughter's pre-kindergarten classroom.

In her spare time, she enjoyed spending time with her eight grandchildren, relaxing at their cottage on Lake Erie, quilting, genealogy, scrapbooking, reading, and working in her yard.

In addition to her father, Sharon was preceded in death by her mother-in-law Dorothy Chapman, and her brother-in-law James Lenart.

Besides her mother, she will be dearly missed by her husband of 42 years, Ronald L. Chapman, and her three children, Jennifer Coolidge and her husband David of Edinboro; Dr. Brian Chapman and his wife Stacie of Union City; and, Rhonda Bem and her husband Ryan, also of Union City. She will be sadly missed by her eight grandchildren, Callan and Garrett Coolidge, Sidney, Grace, and Elliana Chapman, and Ryan (RJ), Connor and Alara Bem.

She is also survived by her father-in-law, Ray Chapman and his wife Madelyn of Waterford, and her three sisters, Linda Hayes (Alan) of Sherman, NY, Tina Winslow (Mark) of Westfield, NY, and Rita Lenart of Panama, NY, and her brother, Steve Hazen (Deana) of Fredonia, NY. She also leaves behind many nieces and nephews.

Friends and family are invited to call at the Russell C. Schmidt & Son Funeral Home Inc., 5000 Wattsburg Road, on Saturday from 2 to 4 p.m. and Sunday from 2 to 4 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m. and are invited to services there on Monday morning at 10:00 a.m. Burial will follow in Waterford Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or Kanzius Cancer Research Foundation, 130 West Eighth Street, Erie, PA 16501.

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Tuesday, December 17, 2013 - 8:25 p.m.

Death of Gerald Van Dyke
FLBHS Class of 1976

Gerald Van Dyke

The following was received from Carrie Thomas Hutsell:

I'm Carrie Thomas Hutsell class of '71.

I don't know if anyone remembers Gerald Van Dyke or not. He lived just five houses up the street from where I grew up as a child. Gerald was the son of Paul Van Dyke of East 4th Street in Waterford and brother of Raymond and Carl. Raymond was in the class of '75', Gerald was in the class of '76', and Carl was in the class of '77'.

I am sending this note to you asking you to inform former classmates that on September 14th, 2013, Gerald was the murder victim of Richard Houy of Cambridge Springs.

Gerald lived in Waterford Township at the time of his death. I don't know if you've heard about this grusome murder but thought perhaps you would be best to place a post of his untimely death.

Gerald was preceded in death by his father and a daughter who died of cancer. His son is presently fighting a battle with cancer.

Details of this grusome murder can be found in the Erie Times or by contacting Tim Haun at tim.hahn@timesnews.com.

I am still at a loss of words to express my saddness of his death. Gerald and his brothers were raised solely be their father who did the best he could and kept his boys together.

Note by Web Master: The following obituary was published in the Times on November 30, 2013:

Gerald P. Van Dyke, age 55 of Union City, died September 27, 2013. Born March 3, 1958 in Union City, he was one of three sons of Paul and Pauline Shreve Van Dyke.

Gerald worked as a truck driver for Troyer Transportation for many years and also was a proud farmer raising beef cows. He loved spending time with his two grandsons and was eagerly looking forward to his expected third grandchild.

Family members that precede him in death include his father, Paul Van Dyke and his daughter, Ashley Yingling.

Gerald is survived by his mother, Pauline Kennedy of Vero Beach, Fla; his son, Andrew Justin Van Dyke and his wife Erin of Waterford; two grandsons, Adonis Yingling and Colton Van Dyke; and two brothers, Raymond Van Dyke of Waterford and Carl Van Dyke and his wife Linda of Vero Beach, Fla.

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Tuesday, December 17, 2013 - 3:25 p.m.

Death of Betty Brown
FLBHS Class of 1976

I was informed by Gary Morrison that Betty Brown FLBHS Class of 1976, passed on December 3. No further information is available!

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Tuesday, December 17, 2013 - 1:25 p.m.

Matthew Wasson          Matthew Wasson

Death of Matthew R. Wasson
FLBHS Class of 2009

Matthew R. Wasson, age 23, of Greene Twp., died Saturday, December 14, 2013 in his sleep. He was born in Erie on March 1, 1990, a son of Dennis Vincent Wasson and Mona and Ray Iamuzzella Berry. Matt was a graduate of Fort LeBoeuf High School. He was currently serving his country in the United States Air Force Reserves, stationed in Buffalo, N.Y. Matt was very soft spoken and full of love and kindness, he had a smile that was contagious. He enjoyed playing video games, lifting weights, being a prankster and having fun with his family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather Richard Iamuzzella, two cousins, Michael Miller and Lisa Pogson; and one uncle Tom Crowl.In addition to his parents, he will be greatly missed by his siblings, Mark, Joshua, Jonah, Hannah and Rachel, who looked up to and admired him as a big brother; maternal grandmother, Linda Malinowski Stewart of Erie; paternal grandparents, Duane and Kathy Wasson of Iowa and Mary Wasson of Erie and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins. He is further survived by his friends, Kyle Campbell and Roman Schmitt and his dear friend, Brooklynn Skrutsky.

Friends may call at the Russell C. Schmidt & Son Funeral Home Inc., 5000 Wattsburg Rd., Erie, PA 16504, on Wednesday from 2:00 to 8:00 p.m. and are invited to a funeral service there on Thursday morning at 11:00 a.m. Interment will be private and held at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the family c/o the Russell C. Schmidt & Son Funeral Home funeral home.

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Friday, December 13, 2013 - 10:35 a.m.

Colonial Christmas will be held again this week. If you missed the event last weekend you have another chance to see some outstanding Christmas decorations. The events are scheduled for Friday December 13, Saturday December 14, and Sunday, December 15.

Colonial Christmas
Please note: The dates have changed from those shown on the above poster but the events are the same!
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Thursday, December 5, 2013 - 9:35 a.m.

The Stancliff Hose Company election results for 2014 are as follows:

Chief - Chris Barber
Assistant Chief - Harry Latta
Assistant Chief - Chris Young
Fire Captain - Ryne Rutkowski
Rescue Captain - Shawn Fox
Fire Lieutenant - Randy Jagta
Fire Lieutenant - Steph Fox
EMS Lieutenant - Jack McIntire
F. P. Lieutenant - John Ondreako

President - Ron Jagta
Vice President - Steph Fox
Secretary - Vicki Robinson
Treasurer - Harry Latta
Assistant Secretary/Treasurer - Dave Allard

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Friday, November 29, 2013 - 4:35 p.m.

The following was received from JoAnne Lenart-Weary

Exciting things in the works! First of all, 40 years ago in 1974, the Fort LeBoeuf Historical Society launched the very first Waterford Heritage Days. Over the years, many people have been instrumental in keeping the tradition going. Last year, it seemed as if this wonderful tradition would end, and a caring, hardworking group stepped up the plate to keep the momentum going. As the plans begin for the 40th Anniversary on July 18-20, 2014, the Historical Society has agreed to bring this wonderful event back to where it began...under the umbrella of the Historical Society. That was the hope of the interim committee and it has come to fruition. The hope was to return the name to Waterford Heritage Days but unfortunately the Historical Society was not successful in trying to purchase the name when it came up for sale as the original owners decided to keep the name. So at this stage of the game, it will be called Waterford Days again unless the owners decide they might be willing to sell or relinquish it back to where it began. The wonderful Rich Goodenow has offered to serve as Chairman of this new committee...and help is needed. If you are interested in helping in anyway, please send a private message to JoAnne on Facebook. We would love to implement a number of things to make the 40th year very special! Small town living is all about the people who live there, and your help is needed to showcase our lovely community.

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Friday, November 29, 2013 - 3:35 p.m.

Celebrate Colonial Christmas this year on December 6th through the 8th and help support the Fort LeBoeuf Historical Society

Colonial Christmas



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Sunday, November 24, 2013 - 10:25 a.m.

Melody A. DaValle

Death of Melody A. DaValle
FLBHS Class of 1978

Melody A. DaValle, age 53, a lifelong resident of Waterford, died Friday, November 22, 2013 at UPMC Hamot after an extended illness. Melody was one of six children of the late Donald G. and Blanche E. "Bea" Honard DaValle. She was born in Erie on May 9, 1960.

Melody was a 1978 graduate of Fort LeBoeuf High School. For many years she worked at Allied Aluminum and then later Blair Corporation until 2006 when she was not able to work due to her health. She was a member of the American Legion Post 285 Auxiliary in Waterford, and she had many interests including reading, crocheting, spending time with her family, helping others, and her dog, "CeCe". She enjoyed traveling and was able to go to Disney World and the Bahamas.

Preceding her in death were her parents; her uncle, James DaValle; and her nephew, Josh DaValle.

Family members that survive include her five siblings - Donald A. DaValle and wife, Carolyn of Erie, Joyce DaValle of Waterford, John DaValle and wife, Brenda of Charlotte, N.C., Helen Shamp and husband, Tony, and Carol LaFlamme and husband, Tim, all of Waterford; also, nieces and nephews - Belinda, Heidi, Carrie, Ryan, Jeremy, Denise and fiance, Jerry Decker, TJ, and Caralee; and a great-niece, Hailey.

Friends are invited to visiting hours at the Van Matre Funeral Home, 105 Walnut Street, Waterford on Monday evening from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. There will be no funeral services and burial will be private in Waterford Cemetery.

The family suggest that memorials be made to the Kanzius Cancer Research Foundation, 130 West 8th Street, Erie, PA 16501. Condolences may be shared at www.vanmatrefuneralhome.com.

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Sunday, November 10, 2013 - 8:45 a.m.

Judy Wolf Babay

Death of Judy Wolf Babay
FLBHS Class of 1961

Judith Ann Wolf Babay (Judy), age 71, of Monroe, N.C., passed away on October 20th, 2013, while being under care at the Kindred Nursing and Rehabilitation Center of Monroe.

Judy was born in Erie, Pa. on March 7th, 1942. She attended Ft. LeBoeuf High School.

Judy worked in the Receiving Department of Sears and Roebuck for 12 years. She enjoyed bowling and bingo. She attended Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church for many years before she moved away from the Erie area.

Judy is survived by her grandchildren, Nelina and Alicia Stidham, Alex Giebner, Nicholas, Nathan, Corey, and Naomi Babay; step-brothers: Mike Will and Robert Wolf; children, Lori Yavorsky, Joni Brooks and Jack Babay; nieces and nephews are many.

Judy is preceded in death by daughter, Jody Mae Babay; parents, Albin Wolf and Emma Irene Kephart; step-dad, Bill Will; brother and sisters, Dennis Wolf, Barbara Bottoni, and Vivian Villa.

In regards to a memorial to honor Judy's time with us; it will be held at a later date (TBA) due to traveling distances for the families and friends.

The family of Jack Babay wishes to thank Kindred Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Monroe, N.C. for taking such good care of her during her stay.

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Thursday, November 8, 2013 - 11:30 a.m.

Thanks to Valerie Kuhn Rose, FLBHS class of 1981, I have added the inductees to the Wall of Fame for 2011, 2012, and 2013. Congratulations to all!

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Thursday, November 7, 2013 - 12:15 p.m.

Shirley Eliason

Death of Shirley Mae Eliason
WHS Class of 1954

Shirley Mae Eliason, 77, of Waterford, passed away on Sunday, October 27, 2013 at Saint Vincent Health Center surrounded by several family members. She was the daughter of the late Carl and Hannah Gem Eliason. In addition to her parents, Shirley has been preceded in death by her sister, Sennie Widdowson; her brother-in-law, Ronald Widdowson; her great niece, Danielle Williams; and great nephew, Kyle Ames.

Shirley was a graduate of Waterford Academy, class of 1954, and went on to attend Erie Business Center where, upon graduation, she enjoyed a long career as a secretary/accountant, school administrator and eventually an executive director with EBC in Erie.

She was a generous individual and enjoyed endowing her family (especially her nieces and nephews) with gifts and attention. She leaves behind many happy memories of her loving nature.

Shirley was very proud of her Swedish heritage and was fortunate enough to have visited her ancestral country last year.

She was a life-long member of Asbury United Methodist Church in Waterford.

Shirley is survived by her sisters, Dolores Havern and her husband Joseph of McKean and Betty Lou Ames and her husband Robert of Colorado Springs, Colo.; also, her brothers, Carl Dean Eliason and his wife Alice, Alvin Eliason and his wife Mary, and Ronald Eliason and his wife Susan, all of Waterford. She is further survived by many nieces and nephews, and her dear friend, Carol Bosley and her children, Brett Bosley and his wife Beth, Carter Edman and his wife Martina, and Katrine Bosley.

A public memorial service will be held for Shirley on Saturday, November 9, 2013 at 10:00 a.m. at Asbury United Methodist Church, 23 West Second Street, Waterford. A private interment for the family will be held at Waterford Cemetery.

If desired, memorials may be sent to the Asbury United Methodist Church, and online condolences may be shared at www.vanmatrefuneralhome.com .

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Thursday, November 7, 2013 - 10:30 p.m.

The Fort LeBoeuf Historical Society is selling fresh green wreaths for your Christmas door or you can order a centerpiece for the Holidays. The wreaths are $25 for a 25" wreath (it is really somewhere around 28" usually) and $20 for a 22" wreath. Also a swag is 25" for $18, Cross is 33" $25. You can also get garland for $2/ft. You have a choice of the following ribbons: red, wine, plaid, gold or silver.You can have your wreath the week-end before Thanksgiving or the week-end after Thanksgiving. The centerpieces can be ordered for the week of Christmas. Please call Terri at 814-796-6476 if you would like to order a wreath. Just an added note the wreaths have some pine cones and are made from several types of greens. Pay when delivered.

Xmas   Xmas   Xmas   Xmas   Xmas
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Thursday, October 31, 2013 - 10:15 a.m.

Death of Ida (Crocker) Hirst
FLBHS Class of 1955

Ida Crocker Hirst

Ida C. Hirst, age 76, formerly of Mill Village, died at her home in Millcreek on Tuesday, October 29, 2013. Born in Mill Village on June 28, 1937, she was one of five children of the late Hugh D. Crocker Sr. and Lois A. Moore Crocker.

Ida married her husband James L. Hirst on June 30, 1956 and together they made a home and raised their three boys. She was a loving wife, mother and grandmother who devoted her life to her family. Sunday dinners after church, birthday parties, and family gatherings of any kind were always a highlight for Ida and an opportunity to cook.

Her interests included needlepoint, reading, and crossword puzzles, and she and Jim enjoyed winters in Florida for 15 years. Ida was always an active member of Mill Village United Methodist Church until moving to Erie when she changed her membership to Summit United Methodist Church.

In addition to her parents, Ida had two brothers who preceded her in death-- Rev. Hugh D. Crocker Jr. and Charles J. Crocker.

She is survived by her husband James L. Hirst; three sons -- Michael J. Hirst and his wife Deborah of Waterford, Mel L. Hirst and his friend Kim of Erie, and Daniel C. Hirst of Erie; four grandchildren -- Jill Hirst, Jody Webb, Kevin Hirst, and Ryan Hirst; two great-granddaughters -- Claire and Casey Wellejus; her brother -- Robert J. Crocker and his wife Becky of Mill Village; her sister -- Eileen Verbanac and her husband Raymond of Tucson, Ariz.; and her friend Cheryl.

Friends are invited to visiting hours at the Van Matre Funeral Home in Waterford on Thursday from 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. and also to the funeral service there on Friday morning at 10:00 a.m. Rev. Ted Cole, retired Methodist minister will officiate. Burial will follow at Mill Village Cemetery.

The Hirst family requests memorials be made in Ida's memory to the Kanzius Cancer Research Foundation, 130 West 8th Street, Erie, PA 16501. Condolences may be sent at www.vanmatrefuneralhome.com.

For those wishing to send condolences the following is furnished:

Jim Hirst
4728 Baywood Drive
Erie, PA 16509
Tel: 814-868-9672

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Wednesday, October 30, 2013 - 10:15 a.m.

Death of Ida (Crocker) Hirst
FLBHS Class of 1955

Ida Crocker Hirst

It is with sadness and regret that I inform you of the death Ida Crocker Hirst.

Ida C. Hirst, age 76, formerly of Mill Village, died at her home in Millcreek on Tuesday, October 29, 2013.

Friends are invited to visiting hours at the Van Matre Funeral Home in Waterford on Thursday from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. and also to the funeral service there on Friday morning at 10:00 a.m.

Condolences may be sent at: www.vanmatrefuneralhome.com.

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Monday, October 28, 2013 - 10:55 a.m.

Death of Shirley Mae Eliason
FLBHS Class of 1954

Shirley Eliason

It is with sadness and regret that I inform you of the death of a very special lady, Shirley Eliason.

As soon as funeral arrangements are known I will post them here and on Facebook!

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Monday, October 28, 2013 - 10:15 a.m.

Death of Virginia "Ginger" Patchen
FLBHS Class of 1962

Sister Ginger

It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Sister Ginger on Monday, October 21, 2013 at the Victoria Hospital at the age of 69 years.

Ginger is survived by her sister Marlene (Gerry), sister-in law Mary, nieces and nephews Christopher, Matthew, Marie, Monica, Adam and their families as well as dear cousins, great-nieces and children around the world whose lives she touched. She was predeceased by her brother John.

Ginger grew up in rural Pennsylvania, where love of family, care of neighbour, and practice of faith became an integral part of who she was. As a Deaconess and Educator Ginger was passionate about helping children be all they could be. In her role as Director of Epiphany Children's Centre she regularly advocated for families. Ginger journeyed with those children and families through years of their faith formation and encouraged them towards successful lives. Ginger was a mentor to many preparing for church leadership, both in the Deaconess community and in the wider church.

Many thanks to Dr. Craig Hildahl, the therapists and staff of Victoria General Hospital 4N, Chaplain Lynn Granke and the compassionate ICU staff especially Dr. Mooney.

A memorial service to celebrate Sister Ginger's life will be held on Wednesday, October 30 at Epiphany Lutheran Church, 200 Dalhousie Drive at 7:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, if friends so desire donations may be made to Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada, 600-177 Lombard Avenue, Winnipeg, MB, R3B 0W5, St. Amant Centre, 440 River Road, Winnipeg, Manitoba, R2M 3Z9 or Epiphany Lutheran Church, 200 Dalhousie Drive, Winnipeg, MB, R3T 2Z1. NEIL BARDAL FUNERAL CENTRE 204-949-2200 neilbardalinc.com

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Tuesday, October 22, 2013 - 7:10 p.m.

Gary Osborn FLBHS class of 1962, furnished many up-dates for the class of 1962 web page and a correction on the class of 1961 web page. Thank you Gary, I REALLY appreciate the help.

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Monday, October 14, 2013 - 9:20 p.m.

Grace O'Sullivan Tarbell, FLBHS Class of 1957, furnished a new e-mail address. Thanks, Grace!

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Saturday, October 12, 2013 - 10:40 p.m.

Sorry I am late with this, but tomorrow, Sunday, October 13, is Coach Carm Bonito's birthday. The cards are going to be late, but lets get him many, many cards. His address is:

Forest View Health Care Center
2301 Edinboro Road
Erie, PA 16509-3492

Attn: Carm Bonito

I received the following from Nancy Prososki Austin WHS Class of 1955:

I just got off phone with Alice. Carm was starting to walk with a walker and he came down with his 3rd bout of pneumonia.

She told nurses they need to help him walk and not keep putting him in a wheel chair. That is why he gets sick. She said he isdoing better. Tomorrow is his birthday, so see if anyone will send cards, doesn't matter if late. Alice said he got some cards and he was really happy with them.

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Wednesday, October 9, 2013 - 5:40 p.m.

Tony Gentile, FLBHS Class of 1969, furnished contact information. Thanks, Tony!

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Sunday, October 6, 2013 - 10:10 a.m.

Ray Blount, FLBHS Class of 1988, furnished his e-mail address. Thanks Ray!

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Thursday, October 3, 2013 - 4:10 p.m.

Pam Estes, FLBHS Class of 1987 was in a severe car accident on September 9, 2013 in Florida. We are trying to raise money for her rising medical bulls. She does not have medical insurance. She is still in the ICU and then will need many weeks or months in rehabilitation. There will be a link to a Paypal account that is 100% secure and confidential. If people do not want to use Paypal they can send checks to me...Lori Chase, 871 Weber Lane, Erie, Pa 16509. I will cash checks and put in the fund. Again it will ALL go to Pam and will be COMPLETELY CONFIDENTIAL. You can also go to www.payitsquare.com/collect-page/18154" to donate.

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Wednesday, October 2, 2013 - 10:30 a.m.

Melinda Berry Bayus furnished her bio for the class of 1987 and her husbands, Robert, for the class of 1986. Thanks, Melinda!

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Tuesday, October 01, 2013 - 1:35 p.m.

Death of James B. (Coach) McGowan
FLBHS Teacher/Coach

Coach McGowan

James B. "Coach" McGowan, 69, of 18 Summit Street, Erie, Pa., passed away on September 27, 2013 at Sarah Reed Retirement Center in Erie.

"Jimmy", born on July 15, 1944 at McKeesport Hospital, was raised in the South Hills of Pittsburgh as an only child, but alongside his "siblings" -- cousins, Wanda and Harold Pascoe. He graduated in the first class of West Mifflin South High School and later from Edinboro Teacher's College. Mr. McGowan taught English for over 30 years at Fort LeBoeuf and McDowell High Schools.

During his school years, Jimmy developed a passion for sports as he captained or co-captained baseball, basketball, and football teams. Jimmy, devoted to football, went on to coach winning teams at Fort LeBoeuf and McDowell.

He was a lover of hunting and fishing. He forever captured the heart of his adventurous spirit through his novella, Three and A Half Cowboys. He resided in Erie for 30 years and previously in Edinboro.

Jimmy is preceded in death by his father, Francis "Sonny" McGowan, a WWII pilot killed in action. He is survived by his mother, Mary Belle Caspary McGowan; his children, Jessica, Keely, Danielle and Brady; and four grandsons.

Jimmy, a lover of Hemingway, will certainly celebrate the "clean well lighted place" of Heaven. "The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear?" Psalm 27:1.

Friends may call at the Van Matre Family Funeral Home, 306 Erie Street, Edinboro, Pa. on Thursday from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. Funeral services will be held at the Edinboro United Methodist Church, 113 High Street, Edinboro, Pa., on Friday at 2:00 p.m.

Condolences may be shared at www.vanmatrefuneralhome.com.

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Tuesday, October 1, 2013 - 1:05 p.m.

The fall issue of the Bisonalities Again Newsletter has been posted for your reading enjoyment. This issue has an interesting article by David Rutkowski, FLBHS '67. Thanks Rut for your continued contribution to keeping this Newsletter going!

Web version
Adobe PDF version

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Sunday, September 29, 2013 - 11:35 p.m.

Bunny Hunt Stafford, FLBHS Class of 1956, furnished the following information:

There will be a memorial service for family and friends of Bill and Carl Hunt who passed away within this past year. It will be at Stanclliff Hose Company on Sunday, October 27, 2013 from 1:00 p.m. till 4:00 p.m..

Please bring your happy thoughts and join us.

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Sunday, September 22, 2013 - 10:45 a.m.

Death of John R. Siegel
FLBHS Class of 1986

John Siegel

John R. Siegel, 46, of Millcreek, died Tuesday, September 17, 2013 at UPMC Hamot following a brief illness. A lifelong resident of Erie, he was born January 16, 1967, a son of Norma Wolfrom Henderson and the late Raymond Siegel.

John was a graduate of Ft. LeBoeuf High School and went on to work at UPMC Hamot in valet parking. Additionally he worked as a car attendant at Champion Ford and also in landscaping and snowplowing where he plowed snow at the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City. He attended St. Mark Episcopal and Abiding Hope Lutheran Churches and was a member of Perry Hi-Way Hose Co. He was an avid Cleveland Browns fan and enjoyed bowling and watching NASCAR, especially Carl Edwards.

In addition to his father he was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Evelyn and Norman Wolfrom and his stepfather, Walter Henderson, Jr.

In addition to his mother, survivors include one daughter, Jamie Siegel at home; one son, Zachary Siegel at home; one sister, Marie Siegel of Phoenix, Ariz.; his stepmother, Sally Dauber and her husband, Tom of Erie; one nephew, Jeff Siegel of Erie; and his former wife, Paula Siegel of Millcreek.

Friends may call at the Russell C. Schmidt & Son Funeral Home Inc., 5000 Wattsburg Road, on Monday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of services there at 12:00 p.m. Burial will be private in Laurel Hill Cemetery.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Kanzius Cancer Research Foundation, 130 W. Eighth St., Erie, PA 16501.

Please visit www.SchmidtFuneralHomeErie.com to sign the Book of Memories.

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Friday, September 13, 2013 - 13:00 p.m.

Marlene Myers Kibbe furnished a picture of the Bonnell School class of 1945-1946.

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Friday, September 13, 2013 - 10:00 a.m.

Death of Cindy McGahen Cornwell
FLBHS Class of 1983

Rita Proctor

Cindy Lee McGahen Cornwell, age 48, resident of Edinboro, died Wednesday, September 11, 2013 at UPMC Hamot after a short illness. She was born in Erie on October 19, 1964, the daughter of Thomas Wesley McGahen and Eleanor Marion Watson McGahen who preceded her in death.

Cindy graduated from Fort LeBoeuf High School in 1983. She loved to crochet, read, and share her faith. Survivors in her family include her husband, Guy Cornwell; her son, Lester Cornwell; her dad, Thomas Wesley McGahen; her sister, Laurie Golden and husband, Duane; brothers, Ronald McGahen and his wife, Melissa, and Daniel McGahen and his wife Amy; and many nieces and nephews.

Friends may call at the Van Matre Family Funeral Home in Edinboro, 306 Erie Street, today, Friday, from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. The funeral service, officiated by Roger Scarlett, will be held at McLane Church, 12511 Edinboro Road, Edinboro on Saturday morning at 11:00 a.m. Interment will follow in Waterford Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the family and condolences may be shared at www.vanmatrefuneralhome.com.

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Wednesday, September 11, 2013 - 2:45 p.m.

Joni Markham furnished a new snail-mail address. Thanks, Joni!

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Wednesday, September 04, 2013 - 5:45 p.m.

Sherree Niemeyer Creekmore, class of 1947, furnished contact information. Thanks Sherree!

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Monday, September 02, 2013 - 2:30 p.m.

Death of Rita T. "Nana" Proctor

Rita Proctor

Rita T. "Nana" Proctor, age 85, resident of Waterford, died Saturday, August 31, 2013 at Edinboro Manor. Born in Erie on October 10, 1927, she was a daughter of the late James David and Ruth Marie Witherel Cairns. She married Raymond E. Proctor Sr. on April 15, 1947, and he died May 12, 1993.

Rita was a homemaker who truly enjoyed life. She loved her family most of all and could always be seen at school athletic events cheering on her grandchildren, and supporting the community. Years ago, Rita and her husband operated LeBoeuf Transit in Waterford.She was an avid golfer, playing in local golf leagues, and she was a member of Asbury United Methodist Church, the Waterford Lioness Club, Stancliff Hose Auxiliary, and the American Legion Post 285 Auxiliary, all in Waterford. For many years, Rita found time to volunteer with the Shriners' Hospital and the Lung Association.

Family members that preceded her in death include her husband Ray Sr.; four sisters-- Grace Klos, Louise Magee, Ruth Smith, and Gladys Muslof; and an infant brother George Cairns.

Rita is survived by three children -- Raymond E. Proctor Jr. and his wife Kathy, Bonnie Goring and her husband Ted, and Sally Byrtus and her husband John, all of Waterford; eight grandchildren -- Tim Proctor (Heather), Scott Proctor (Kelli), Jenny Goring (John Frenzl), John Goring (Tanja), Katie Spires (Jeff), Andie Morgan (Kirk), Dr. Maggie Biebel (Angus), and Emily Byrtus (fiancee Dustin Quebedeaux); and nine great-grandchildren -- Greg and Katie Proctor, Jackson, Wilson, Hudson, and Etta Spires, Brock Morgan, and Abby and Lukas Goring. She is further survived by her brother, James Cairns II and his wife Shirley of Fairview; a cousin, Alice Root of Erie; several nieces and nephews; and all the special people who called her Nana.

Friends may call at the Van Matre Funeral Home, 105 Walnut Street, Waterford on Tuesday from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. Funeral services will be at Asbury United Methodist Church in Waterford on Wednesday morning at 10:00 a.m. officiated by Rev. Gary Donaldson. Burial will follow at Waterford Cemetery.

Condolences may be shared at www.vanmatrefuneralhome.com

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Wednesday, August 21, 2013 - 3:30 p.m.

Bobbie Shields furnished new contact information for Wilbur Platz, WHS Class of 1954.

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Wednesday, August 21, 2013 - 10:30 a.m.

A new link has been added to the web site under "Interesting Web Sites". The link is for Fort LeBoeuf football boosters web site - purpleinkgraphics.wix.com/bisonfootball1. Thanks to Amy Fish (booster secretary & class of '87) for furnishing the link!

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Tuesday, August 13, 2013 - 4:30 p.m.

Several days ago Vera Powell sent me pictures she took at the 59th Reunion of the Class of 1954. I finally took time out of bass fishing and posted them.

Class of 1954 - 59th Reunion

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Monday, August 12, 2013 - 2:30 p.m.

Several days ago Vera Powell sent me pictures she took at the 57th Reunion of the Class of 1956. I finally took time out of bass fishing and posted them.

Class of 1956 - 57th Reunion

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Monday, August 12, 2013 - 11:25 a.m.

Mary Kibbe Lambert, FLBHS class of 1961, furnished a new e-mail address.

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Friday, August 9, 2013 - 10:25 a.m.

Death of Garrett Conn

Garrett Conn

Garrett G. Conn, 21, of Waterford, passed away Monday July 29, 2013 in Hawaii. He was born in Erie on May 11, 1992 a son of Diane Shields Conn and Geoffrey Conn.

Garrett was a 2010 graduate of Ft. LeBoeuf High School and went on to work for Off Road Express. He was currently serving with the United States Army as a Private 2nd Class. He was a member of St. Boniface Catholic Church and enjoyed hunting, fishing, snowmobiles, and racing motorcross.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Bud and Martha Robertson.

In addition to his parents, survivors include one sister, Cassidy Conn at home; one brother, Trenton Conn at home; stepfather, Todd Deitrick of North East; stepmother, Heather Conn of Waterford; his paternal grandparents, Gene Conn and his wife Jean of Waterford; his maternal grandparents, Dell Shields and his wife Barbara of Waterford; many aunts and uncles including, Judy Cline and her husband Brian of Waterford, Steve Shields and his wife Linda of Union City, Lisa Wasielewski and her husband Lee of Waterford, William Shields and his partner Mike of Erie, Remle Fried and her husband Scott of Erie, Carolyn Stroup and her husband Boyd of Union City, Laura Platz and her husband Tony of Waterford, and Angie Proctor and her husband Steve of Waterford.

Friends may call at the Russell C. Schmidt & Son Funeral Home Inc., 5000 Wattsburg Road, on Friday from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 9 p.m. and at St. Boniface Catholic Church on Saturday morning from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the Funeral Mass at 11:00 a.m.. Burial with full military honors will follow in Mount of Olives Cemetery.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, or the Vet Hunters Project.

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Bisonalities Blog - May 21-July 31, 2013