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Gamma Brothers
No Longer With Us
Arranged by Year Passed
Please let us know of any corrections. Tell Wayne Norris or Larry Kuzma or [email protected]
Brother
Class
Year Passed
2 Passed This Year
Year Passed 2015
Lou Galli
Notes
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.
Charles Thomas
1965
2015
8 Passed This Year
Year Passed 2014
Robert Flath
Sunday, April 26, 2015
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.
Page 1 of 33
Brother
Cecil Willoughby
Class
1951
Year Passed
2014
Notes
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.
Edward Ewaskey
1952
2014
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.
Sunday, April 26, 2015
Page 2 of 33
Brother
Class
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 greatgrandchildren. 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.
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.
Phil Orosz
1965
2014
Died: August 26th, 2014
Sunday, April 26, 2015
Year Passed
Notes
Page 3 of 33
Brother
Class
Darrel Sheraw
1965
Year Passed
2014
Notes
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
Year Passed
2013
Sunday, April 26, 2015
5 Passed This Year
Page 4 of 33
Brother
Class
Herb Elias
1952
Year Passed
2013
Notes
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.
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.
Sunday, April 26, 2015
Page 5 of 33
Brother
Robert Hartz
Class
1961
Year Passed
Notes
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
Lawerence Zinchini
Sunday, April 26, 2015
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.
Page 6 of 33
Brother
Ron Repasky
Class
1965
Year Passed
2013
Notes
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.
11 Passed This Year
Year Passed 2012
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.
Sunday, April 26, 2015
Page 7 of 33
Brother
Hadley Thompson
Class
1951
Year Passed
2012
Notes
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).
Sunday, April 26, 2015
Page 8 of 33
Brother
David Bevevino
Class
1953
Year Passed
2012
Notes
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.
Sunday, April 26, 2015
Page 9 of 33
Brother
Furman Curry
Class
1956
Year Passed
2012
Notes
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.
Sunday, April 26, 2015
Page 10 of 33
Brother
Edward Lendinski
Class
1956
Year Passed
2012
Notes
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 greatgrandchild 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 greatsensitivity 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.
Donald Ehrhart
Sunday, April 26, 2015
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.
Page 11 of 33
Brother
Daniel Estadt
Class
1961
Year Passed
2012
Notes
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; brotherin-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; sisterin-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. Gary Estadt; and his brother in-law, Kenny Siegel.
Gary O’Brien
Sunday, April 26, 2015
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.
Page 12 of 33
Brother
Class
Jack Mills
1965
Year Passed
2012
Notes
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
Vince Nola
Sunday, April 26, 2015
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
Page 13 of 33
Brother
Class
Bill Sike
1966
Year Passed
2012
Notes
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.
Year Passed
8 Passed This Year
2011
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.
Sunday, April 26, 2015
Page 14 of 33
Brother
John Panciera
Class
1950
Year Passed
2011
Notes
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.
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 greatgrandchildren. 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.
Sunday, April 26, 2015
Page 15 of 33
Brother
Enrico Papurello
Class
1954
Year Passed
2011
Notes
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.
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
•
W hite 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.
Chuck Snell
Sunday, April 26, 2015
1963
2011
Date unknown
Page 16 of 33
Brother
Class
Ron Kalup
1964
Year Passed
2011
Notes
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.
Wayne German
1967
2011
12 Passed This Year
Year Passed 2010
James Helmintoller
1948
2010
Ralph Blewitt
1949
2010
John Robert Kerr
1950
2010
Sunday, April 26, 2015
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.
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…
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
Page 17 of 33
Brother
Donald Reno
Class
1955
Year Passed
2010
Notes
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.
Jim Verbanic
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.
Gerald Etzel
1956
2010
17 June 2010
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 nineyear 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.
V.J. Nelson
Sunday, April 26, 2015
1959
2010
Page 18 of 33
Brother
Class
Year Passed
George McFarland
1960
2010
William Smutko
1960
2010
Notes
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.
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.
Sunday, April 26, 2015
Page 19 of 33
Brother
Donald Mikus
Class
1966
Year Passed
2010
Notes
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.
6 Passed This Year
Year Passed 2009
Gene 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.
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.
Charles Dallap
1959
2009
Chet was a retired guidance counselor for Sharpsville School District. He is
survived by two daughters - Barbara and Diane.
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.
Sunday, April 26, 2015
Page 20 of 33
Brother
Class
Year Passed
Notes
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.
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.
9 Passed This Year
Year Passed 2008
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.
Lynn Rhodes
1949
2008
Retired principal in the Tucson AZ school district
Sunday, April 26, 2015
Page 21 of 33
Brother
Class
Year Passed
Notes
Robert Zakula
1950
2008
Daniel Balya
1951
2008
Ed Doecki
1951
2008
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.
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.
F. Kenneth Cox
Sunday, April 26, 2015
1960
2008
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.
Page 22 of 33
Brother
Class
Al Lefevre
1965
Year Passed
2008
Notes
Al "Bud" Lefevre, 65, Sayer Street, Brookville, died Friday at Brookville Hospital.
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.
7 Passed This Year
Year Passed 2007
James Arner
1947
2007
Chuck Herron
1951
2007
Raymond Predebon
1952
2007
Sunday, April 26, 2015
Ray played basketball and remained an active part of the University after
graduating. Ray is survived by his wife Norma and three childern.
Page 23 of 33
Brother
Class
Year Passed
Sam Goodwill
1956
2007
Theodore Aiken
1958
2007
Sunday, April 26, 2015
Notes
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.
Page 24 of 33
Brother
Class
Year Passed
Notes
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
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.
9 Passed This Year
Year Passed 2006
Anthony Pitocco
1951
2006
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.
Joseph Zelek
1952
2006
Retired Guidance Counselor from the Riverview/Verona School District.
Sunday, April 26, 2015
Page 25 of 33
Brother
Class
Year Passed
Notes
Lawrence Lewandowski
1954
2006
Lawrence J. Lewandoski, 75, of Level Green, died Monday, June 26, 2006, in
his home. He was born 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.
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.
Gary Smith
1960
2006
Gary was a retired Biology and Chemistry. He is survived by his wife Phoebe
and children, Robin, Gary and Matthew.
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
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 MASONGELDER 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
John Lukcas
1969
2006
Mark Mileski
1973
2006
4 Passed This Year
Year Passed 2005
William Gargano
Sunday, April 26, 2015
Have no further information.
1950
2005
Page 26 of 33
Brother
Class
Year Passed
George Zissis
1951
2005
Floyd Stanczak
1953
2005
Sunday, April 26, 2015
Notes
Page 27 of 33
Brother
Guy Rippole
Sunday, April 26, 2015
Class
1966
Year Passed
2005
Notes
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 StoRox 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
Page 28 of 33
Brother
Class
Year Passed
Notes
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."
5 Passed This Year
Year Passed 2004
Edward Skacan
1950
2004
Art collector of Andy Warhol - Family of painters
Richard Vidunas
1954
2004
Retired coach and Social Studies teacher Union School District
Lawrence Salvetto
1957
2004
Felix Persi
1965
2004
15 Feb 2005
Willaim V. Faiello
1971
2004
Teacher, North Hills School District
4 Passed This Year
Year Passed 2003
Daniel Lounsberry
1951
2003
Ken Miller
1952
2003
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.
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.
5 Passed This Year
Year Passed 2002
Jack Palaggo
1950
2002
Ed Prusick
1950
2002
George Curry
1952
2002
Frank Palaggo
1952
2002
Hugo DeFelice
1953
2002
9 Passed This Year
Year Passed 2001
Wayne Fulton
1932
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.
Ralph Fulton
1933
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.
Sunday, April 26, 2015
Page 29 of 33
Brother
Class
Year Passed
Notes
John Mochnick
1933
2001
Paul Taylor
1950
2001
Dan Weitz
1952
2001
Domenick Cavalancia
1956
2001
Brother of James Cavalancia. Domenick lived in Asthabula, Ohio with his wife
Audrey who also graduated from Clarion in 1957. Domenick also coached Jr.
High football, track and girls basketball
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.
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
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.
4 Passed This Year
Year Passed 2000
Everrett Lawrence
2000
Frank Vescio
1951
2000
Bob Coury
1952
2000
John Brown
1954
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.
8 Passed This Year
Year Passed 1999
Jack Bittner
1950
1999
Steve Delpero
1950
1999
George Derk
1950
1999
Bob Robinson
1950
1999
Milan Svitchan
1950
1999
Glen Stennett
1952
1999
Sunday, April 26, 2015
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.
Page 30 of 33
Brother
Class
Year Passed
Fred Donelli
1953
1999
John Gray
1953
1999
Year Passed
Lou Tosi
1951
1998
John Jannuzi
1952
1998
3 Passed This Year
Year Passed 1997
George Czap
1953
1997
Larry Schulte
1953
1997
Tony Ardito
1954
1997
5 Passed This Year
Year Passed 1995
Bill Casper
1950
1995
George Fallon
1951
1995
Dick Astor
1952
1995
Pete Seirka
1952
1995
Frank Sharrow
1953
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.”
1 Passed This Year
Year Passed 1994
1950
1994
3 Passed This Year
Year Passed 1993
Joe Devey
1950
1993
Howard Reasinger
1954
1993
Sunday, April 26, 2015
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.
2 Passed This Year
1998
Tony Mason
Notes
Page 31 of 33
Brother
Class
Joe Tessitore
1954
Year Passed
1993
1 Passed This Year
Year Passed 1992
Myron Petruska
1951
1992
3 Passed This Year
Year Passed 1991
Buck Askey
1950
1991
Ed Lloyd
1953
1991
John Holodnick
1964
1991
Year Passed
1950
1989
1 Passed This Year
1986
Joe Matthews
1952
1986
1 Passed This Year
Year Passed 1975
Bob Wolfe
1950
1975
1 Passed This Year
Year Passed 1972
Frank Crowley
Heart acttack
1 Passed This Year
Year Passed 1989
John Bove
Notes
1952
1972
2 Passed This Year
Year Passed 1970
Ed Bednarczyk
1964
1970
1970's
Dale Hensel
1970
1970
Killed serving his country in Vietnam
1 Passed This Year
Year Passed 1967
Rich Kutch
Year Passed
1965
1967
1 Passed This Year
1965
Bob Gray
1964
1965
3 Passed This Year
Year Passed 1962
Claire Lias
1953
1962
Al Marinich
1953
1962
Eddie Michel
1962
1962
Sunday, April 26, 2015
Auto accident
Summer school accident
Page 32 of 33
Brother
Class
Year Passed
1 Passed This Year
Year Passed 1929
Jim Lynch
Notes
1955
1929
3 Passed This Year
Year Passed
James Riley
1960
Steve Kurcis
1961
James Goodman
1965
149 Total Passed
Sunday, April 26, 2015
Page 33 of 33