2022 Obituaries
Irene Rosella Rinker, 96, formerly of Knox, passed away at the Heritage Valley Beaver Hospital on May 16, 2022.
Born April 30, 1926, in Washington Township, Clarion County, Irene was the daughter of the late Wilbur K. and Irene McKissick Young. Both parents died when Irene was very young so she and her sister were raised by their paternal grandparents Curt and Ida Young of Shippenville. Her aunt Mildred Young DeWyer was very instrumental in her life and was a mother figure for her until her death in 2001.
Irene graduated from Shippenville High School in 1943. She and Dale Rinker were married on December 6, 1946, in Shippenville by the late Rev. Eugene Kern.
Irene was a member of the Bethany E.C. Church in Knox where she served in several capacities. In more recent years she attended the New Zion Church in Emlenton.
She was a charter member of the American Legion Auxiliary of Post 997 in Lamartine and for many years was a very active member holding several offices. She volunteered for the American Cancer Society and a hospice volunteer for the Clarion Forest VNA both in homes and in the serenity house in Shippenville. During this time she met many patients and families who were a blessing in her life.
Irene worked for Linnon’s Foodland in Mariasville until her retirement in 1982. After retiring she provided childcare for several local families.
She enjoyed doing crafts, especially stained glass with her long time friend Nola Chase. Holiday baking time was special to her. Cookies, banana nut bread and candy were made as special gifts for her friends and family. She had a strong faith in God and her family brought much happiness to her life. Being a grandmother and great grandmother was a great joy for her.
Irene is survived by her two sons and their wives Rich and Judith Rinker and Ron and Betsy Rinker all of Beaver Falls; three grandchildren Derek Rinker and his wife Jennifer of Stephens City, VA, Chris Rinker and his wife Janet of Ellwood City and Jason Rinker of Ellwood City and five great grandchildren Noah Rinker, Zoe Rinker, Ireland Rinker, Bella Rinker and Abigael Rinker.
Along with her parents Irene was preceded in death by an infant son Gary Rinker in 1951, her husband Dale in 2004, her only sibling Mabel Craft in 2007 and her companion, Boston Terrier Tish in 2007.
Born April 30, 1926, in Washington Township, Clarion County, Irene was the daughter of the late Wilbur K. and Irene McKissick Young. Both parents died when Irene was very young so she and her sister were raised by their paternal grandparents Curt and Ida Young of Shippenville. Her aunt Mildred Young DeWyer was very instrumental in her life and was a mother figure for her until her death in 2001.
Irene graduated from Shippenville High School in 1943. She and Dale Rinker were married on December 6, 1946, in Shippenville by the late Rev. Eugene Kern.
Irene was a member of the Bethany E.C. Church in Knox where she served in several capacities. In more recent years she attended the New Zion Church in Emlenton.
She was a charter member of the American Legion Auxiliary of Post 997 in Lamartine and for many years was a very active member holding several offices. She volunteered for the American Cancer Society and a hospice volunteer for the Clarion Forest VNA both in homes and in the serenity house in Shippenville. During this time she met many patients and families who were a blessing in her life.
Irene worked for Linnon’s Foodland in Mariasville until her retirement in 1982. After retiring she provided childcare for several local families.
She enjoyed doing crafts, especially stained glass with her long time friend Nola Chase. Holiday baking time was special to her. Cookies, banana nut bread and candy were made as special gifts for her friends and family. She had a strong faith in God and her family brought much happiness to her life. Being a grandmother and great grandmother was a great joy for her.
Irene is survived by her two sons and their wives Rich and Judith Rinker and Ron and Betsy Rinker all of Beaver Falls; three grandchildren Derek Rinker and his wife Jennifer of Stephens City, VA, Chris Rinker and his wife Janet of Ellwood City and Jason Rinker of Ellwood City and five great grandchildren Noah Rinker, Zoe Rinker, Ireland Rinker, Bella Rinker and Abigael Rinker.
Along with her parents Irene was preceded in death by an infant son Gary Rinker in 1951, her husband Dale in 2004, her only sibling Mabel Craft in 2007 and her companion, Boston Terrier Tish in 2007.
Donald D. Oglesby, 92, of West Home Rd., Emlenton, passed away Tuesday morning, May 3, 2022 at the Caring Place in Franklin.
Donald was born in Cornplanter Twp., Venango Co. on November 11, 1929. He was the son of the late Samuel P. and Arena Lawrence Oglesby.
He was a 1949 graduate of Cranberry High School and had been employed for more than 40 years as a machinist at Joy Manufacturing in Franklin and worked making mining carts. Don was a U.S. Army veteran, having served in Augsburg, Germany during the Korean War and attained the rank of Corporal. Don owned and operated the family farm and enjoyed raising many animals including cows, pigs, chickens, and especially his horses. He enjoyed attending auctions and sales. Don played the harmonica and enjoyed country western and polka music and playing checkers.
Don was preceded in death by his wife, Ilse M. Scherer Oglesby, whom he married in Augsburg, Germany on August 22, 1953. Mrs. Oglesby passed away on January 25, 2015.
Surviving are four children Klaus J. Oglesby and his wife, Debbie, of Canyon Lake, TX, Linda L. Meyer and her husband, Leonard, of Ridgeland, SC, Donald B. Oglesby and his wife, Sandra, of Ellenville, NY, Carla Hughes and her husband, Michael, of Emlenton; nineteen grandchildren, seventeen great grandchildren, and three great great grandchildren; a sister, Anna L. Winkler of Emlenton, as well as a number of nieces, nephews, cousins, and his brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law in Augsburg, Germany.
In addition to his parents and wife, Donald was preceded in death by four sisters, Mary Jane Winkler, Hazel Weaver, Ellen Hornberg, and Ruby Payne; two brothers, Rev. George Oglesby and Larry Oglesby, as well as a number of brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law.
Donald was born in Cornplanter Twp., Venango Co. on November 11, 1929. He was the son of the late Samuel P. and Arena Lawrence Oglesby.
He was a 1949 graduate of Cranberry High School and had been employed for more than 40 years as a machinist at Joy Manufacturing in Franklin and worked making mining carts. Don was a U.S. Army veteran, having served in Augsburg, Germany during the Korean War and attained the rank of Corporal. Don owned and operated the family farm and enjoyed raising many animals including cows, pigs, chickens, and especially his horses. He enjoyed attending auctions and sales. Don played the harmonica and enjoyed country western and polka music and playing checkers.
Don was preceded in death by his wife, Ilse M. Scherer Oglesby, whom he married in Augsburg, Germany on August 22, 1953. Mrs. Oglesby passed away on January 25, 2015.
Surviving are four children Klaus J. Oglesby and his wife, Debbie, of Canyon Lake, TX, Linda L. Meyer and her husband, Leonard, of Ridgeland, SC, Donald B. Oglesby and his wife, Sandra, of Ellenville, NY, Carla Hughes and her husband, Michael, of Emlenton; nineteen grandchildren, seventeen great grandchildren, and three great great grandchildren; a sister, Anna L. Winkler of Emlenton, as well as a number of nieces, nephews, cousins, and his brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law in Augsburg, Germany.
In addition to his parents and wife, Donald was preceded in death by four sisters, Mary Jane Winkler, Hazel Weaver, Ellen Hornberg, and Ruby Payne; two brothers, Rev. George Oglesby and Larry Oglesby, as well as a number of brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law.
Ina Edna “Eddie” Stricker, 85, of Emlenton, went to be with her Lord and Savior early Saturday morning, April 30, 2022 at UPMC Northwest in Seneca.
Ina Edna was born on April 5, 1937 in Birmingham, Alabama and raised and attended school near Biloxi in Jackson, Mississippi. She was the daughter of the late Louis Webster Nicholson and Bessie Elizabeth Ward Nicholson.
Eddie was a devoted wife and mother and loved Jesus. She gardened and stored up all that she could, her shelves were loaded with canned goods. She was a great cook and kept her house always ready for company. And she received lots! She could make a ‘silk purse from a sow’s ear’ when it came to decorating. She also made custom cards and sent to her family and friends. She loved flowers and was always willing to decorate her church both outside and in. She was a choir member at New Zion E.C. Church, loved singing harmonies with any and all who would join. She most especially enjoyed the company of her family. Eddie was affectionately “Munner” to her grandchildren and great grandchildren, whom she adored. In her earlier years, she was “Mom” to many of her children’s friends, who enjoyed spending hours at her home. She had been employed for many years in the game room, spending countless hours with the ‘kids/teens’ at Wolfe’s Camping Resort near Knox. In her later years she enjoyed word search puzzles and gluing puzzles her husband had put together.
Eddie is survived by her husband, Robert W. “Bob” Stricker, whom she married at Old Zion United Methodist Church in Emlenton on September 14, 1970. Also surviving are three daughters, Gail S. Pipher and her husband, Jeff, of Parker, Terri B. Renfrew and her husband, Bob, of Emlenton, and Connie McGuirk and her husband, Terry, of Parker, and a son, Charles N. Busch of Eau Claire and his special friend, Tish Tokarski; a daughter-in-law, Robyn Busch of Buffalo, NY; eleven grandchildren, Jonas Webster Pipher and his wife, Holly, of St. Petersburg, Dustin W. Renfrew of Pensacola, FL, Lacy Lynn Perry and her husband, Ryan, of Fertigs, Jacob “Nick” McGuirk and his wife, Jenny, of Foxburg, Blayne H. McGuirk of Foxburg, Maryellen Lowry and her husband, Ben, of Fairbanks, Alaska, Elijah Nelson Busch and his wife, Anna, of Knox, Abigail Marie Hartwig and her husband, Lucas, of Knox, Aaron Michael Busch of Milton, OH, Forest Busch of Tennessee, and Leandra M. Harlow of New Vernon; 20 great grandchildren; a sister-in-law, Nita Marie Baumgarten of Tionesta, as well as a number of nieces, nephews, and cousins.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a son, Phillip M. Busch, who passed away on June 3, 2007; her siblings, Louis Nicholson, Dorothy Lyle, Betty Jo Harris (Nicky), Shirley Walls, Lydia Phallan, Thomas Nicholson, and Gloria Smith, as well as a number of brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law.
Ina Edna was born on April 5, 1937 in Birmingham, Alabama and raised and attended school near Biloxi in Jackson, Mississippi. She was the daughter of the late Louis Webster Nicholson and Bessie Elizabeth Ward Nicholson.
Eddie was a devoted wife and mother and loved Jesus. She gardened and stored up all that she could, her shelves were loaded with canned goods. She was a great cook and kept her house always ready for company. And she received lots! She could make a ‘silk purse from a sow’s ear’ when it came to decorating. She also made custom cards and sent to her family and friends. She loved flowers and was always willing to decorate her church both outside and in. She was a choir member at New Zion E.C. Church, loved singing harmonies with any and all who would join. She most especially enjoyed the company of her family. Eddie was affectionately “Munner” to her grandchildren and great grandchildren, whom she adored. In her earlier years, she was “Mom” to many of her children’s friends, who enjoyed spending hours at her home. She had been employed for many years in the game room, spending countless hours with the ‘kids/teens’ at Wolfe’s Camping Resort near Knox. In her later years she enjoyed word search puzzles and gluing puzzles her husband had put together.
Eddie is survived by her husband, Robert W. “Bob” Stricker, whom she married at Old Zion United Methodist Church in Emlenton on September 14, 1970. Also surviving are three daughters, Gail S. Pipher and her husband, Jeff, of Parker, Terri B. Renfrew and her husband, Bob, of Emlenton, and Connie McGuirk and her husband, Terry, of Parker, and a son, Charles N. Busch of Eau Claire and his special friend, Tish Tokarski; a daughter-in-law, Robyn Busch of Buffalo, NY; eleven grandchildren, Jonas Webster Pipher and his wife, Holly, of St. Petersburg, Dustin W. Renfrew of Pensacola, FL, Lacy Lynn Perry and her husband, Ryan, of Fertigs, Jacob “Nick” McGuirk and his wife, Jenny, of Foxburg, Blayne H. McGuirk of Foxburg, Maryellen Lowry and her husband, Ben, of Fairbanks, Alaska, Elijah Nelson Busch and his wife, Anna, of Knox, Abigail Marie Hartwig and her husband, Lucas, of Knox, Aaron Michael Busch of Milton, OH, Forest Busch of Tennessee, and Leandra M. Harlow of New Vernon; 20 great grandchildren; a sister-in-law, Nita Marie Baumgarten of Tionesta, as well as a number of nieces, nephews, and cousins.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a son, Phillip M. Busch, who passed away on June 3, 2007; her siblings, Louis Nicholson, Dorothy Lyle, Betty Jo Harris (Nicky), Shirley Walls, Lydia Phallan, Thomas Nicholson, and Gloria Smith, as well as a number of brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law.
Francis A. “Ben” Benton, 90, of Emlenton, entered the presence of his Savior on Monday, March 14, 2022, with his family at his side following a brief illness. Born July 12, 1931, in Altoona, PA, a son of the late Edward and Alice Buige, he grew up in Nanty Glo, PA. Following his graduation from Nanty Glo High School in 1949, he enlisted in the United States Air Force, serving in Korea as a radio operator. After his discharge, he enrolled at Indiana State Teachers College (now IUP), graduating with a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education in 1956. He also received a master’s degree in Education from the University of Pittsburgh. He taught in the Gateway School District, subsequently moving into administration as a principal with the Gateway, Moshannon Valley, and Allegheny-Clarion Valley School Districts, retiring in 1990.
Ben is survived by his wife of 66 years, the former Annette Dudek. He is also survived by his children, Scott (Beth) Benton of Allison Park and Paula (Nevin) Saylor of Indiana; seven grandchildren, Joseph (Lauren) Saylor, Benjamin (Lauren) Saylor, Annabeth (Zachery) Karcher, Stephen (Caitlin) Benton, Andrew (Paige) Benton, Philip Benton, and Faith Benton; and nine great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his brothers Anthony Buige and James Calhoun, sister-in-law Barbara Buige (widow of his late brother Edward Buige, Jr.), and many nieces and nephews.
Ben was proud of and deeply devoted to his family and took every opportunity to be present for as many games, concerts, and events as possible. He was also a committed man of faith and prayer. He served as the teacher of the adult Sunday School class at New Zion Evangelical Congregational Church for many years, and was still actively teaching until the week before his passing. His values of family and faith have been fully embraced by the succeeding generations, with his immediate family of 27 gathering last year to honor and celebrate him on his 90th birthday. Ben enjoyed the outdoors, traveling, cooking, and was a passionate life-long learner. He had a gift for connecting with people, and always found something in common with everyone he met.
Ben is survived by his wife of 66 years, the former Annette Dudek. He is also survived by his children, Scott (Beth) Benton of Allison Park and Paula (Nevin) Saylor of Indiana; seven grandchildren, Joseph (Lauren) Saylor, Benjamin (Lauren) Saylor, Annabeth (Zachery) Karcher, Stephen (Caitlin) Benton, Andrew (Paige) Benton, Philip Benton, and Faith Benton; and nine great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his brothers Anthony Buige and James Calhoun, sister-in-law Barbara Buige (widow of his late brother Edward Buige, Jr.), and many nieces and nephews.
Ben was proud of and deeply devoted to his family and took every opportunity to be present for as many games, concerts, and events as possible. He was also a committed man of faith and prayer. He served as the teacher of the adult Sunday School class at New Zion Evangelical Congregational Church for many years, and was still actively teaching until the week before his passing. His values of family and faith have been fully embraced by the succeeding generations, with his immediate family of 27 gathering last year to honor and celebrate him on his 90th birthday. Ben enjoyed the outdoors, traveling, cooking, and was a passionate life-long learner. He had a gift for connecting with people, and always found something in common with everyone he met.
2021 Obituaries
David Zeldon “Mac” McGinnis Jr., 95 of Emlenton passed away peacefully at home on November 29, 2021.
Mac was born May 15, 1926, he was the son of David “Ike” Zeldon McGinnis and Jessie Dunkle McGinnis, at his family’s home near Six Points. Mac was 14 when his mother Jessie passed away. He was raised by his step mother Veda Cotton McGinnis. Mac was cherished and loved for many years up till Veda’s passing at the age of 107.
Mac married Mae Gordon on April 30, 1949. The couple celebrated their 72nd wedding anniversary this year. Together the couple had three children; David, Bruce and Susan.
Mac proudly served in the United States Navy during World War II. He also was in the Army Reserves.
Mac retired from Operators Engineer. He drove heavy equipment for the company upon his retirement. Mac was a true outdoors man. He loved spending time in the woods hunting and fishing. He kept a beautiful garden. His family treasures numerous wood working projects he has done over the years. Most importantly being with his loved ones brought him much joy.
Loved ones left to cherish Mac’s memory is his wife Mae McGinnis of Emlenton, his children David McGinnis and his wife Nancy of Pittsburgh, Bruce McGinnis of Ashland Ohio and Susan McCoy and her husband Joseph of Emlenton. His grandchildren David McGinnis, Patrick McGinnis and his wife Karrie, Scott McGinnis and his wife Samantha, Bradley McGinnis, Philip McCoy and his wife Anoma, Daniel McCoy and his wife Stephanie, Michelle Hubenthal and Cathy McCoy. His great grandchildren; Emma, Garrett, Kya, Dinesh, Joshua, Jack, Katie, Mara and Rosalie. Mac’s sisters and brothers Louise Carrick, Karen Terwilliger, Abbie Reeder, Terry McGinnis and his wife Shirley and Lou McGinnis.
Mac was welcomed into heaven by his parents, his brothers and sisters Amos McGinnis, Doris Dunkle, Lowry McGinnis, Thayle McGinnis, Cythina Campbell and Dale Warters.
Mac was born May 15, 1926, he was the son of David “Ike” Zeldon McGinnis and Jessie Dunkle McGinnis, at his family’s home near Six Points. Mac was 14 when his mother Jessie passed away. He was raised by his step mother Veda Cotton McGinnis. Mac was cherished and loved for many years up till Veda’s passing at the age of 107.
Mac married Mae Gordon on April 30, 1949. The couple celebrated their 72nd wedding anniversary this year. Together the couple had three children; David, Bruce and Susan.
Mac proudly served in the United States Navy during World War II. He also was in the Army Reserves.
Mac retired from Operators Engineer. He drove heavy equipment for the company upon his retirement. Mac was a true outdoors man. He loved spending time in the woods hunting and fishing. He kept a beautiful garden. His family treasures numerous wood working projects he has done over the years. Most importantly being with his loved ones brought him much joy.
Loved ones left to cherish Mac’s memory is his wife Mae McGinnis of Emlenton, his children David McGinnis and his wife Nancy of Pittsburgh, Bruce McGinnis of Ashland Ohio and Susan McCoy and her husband Joseph of Emlenton. His grandchildren David McGinnis, Patrick McGinnis and his wife Karrie, Scott McGinnis and his wife Samantha, Bradley McGinnis, Philip McCoy and his wife Anoma, Daniel McCoy and his wife Stephanie, Michelle Hubenthal and Cathy McCoy. His great grandchildren; Emma, Garrett, Kya, Dinesh, Joshua, Jack, Katie, Mara and Rosalie. Mac’s sisters and brothers Louise Carrick, Karen Terwilliger, Abbie Reeder, Terry McGinnis and his wife Shirley and Lou McGinnis.
Mac was welcomed into heaven by his parents, his brothers and sisters Amos McGinnis, Doris Dunkle, Lowry McGinnis, Thayle McGinnis, Cythina Campbell and Dale Warters.
2020 Obituaries
Jean Downing’s Please accept Echovita’s sincere condolences.
With heavy hearts, we announce the death of Jean Downing (Saint Petersburg, Pennsylvania), born in Knox, Pennsylvania, who passed away on April 26, 2020 at the age of 73. Leave a sympathy message to the family on the memorial page of Jean Downing to pay them a last tribute.
She was predeceased by : her father George; her husband Richard Downing; and her step-daughter Edna Mae Lewis. She is survived by : her siblings, Joyce Swaney (Frank) of Pittsburgh, Kay Dunlap (Lou) of Franklin and Donald Hannah (Connie) of Oil City; her step-son Gary Downing (Linda) of St. Petersburg; her granddaughter Lorie Michael; her nieces, April Chapin (Scott) of Oil City, Dawn Barscz (Jamie) of Oil City and Crystal Hannah of Oil City; and her nephew Keith Hannah (Rachel) of Waco, TX. She is also survived by six great grandchildren, three great-great grandchildren, ten great nieces and nephews, and four great-great nieces and nephews.
With heavy hearts, we announce the death of Jean Downing (Saint Petersburg, Pennsylvania), born in Knox, Pennsylvania, who passed away on April 26, 2020 at the age of 73. Leave a sympathy message to the family on the memorial page of Jean Downing to pay them a last tribute.
She was predeceased by : her father George; her husband Richard Downing; and her step-daughter Edna Mae Lewis. She is survived by : her siblings, Joyce Swaney (Frank) of Pittsburgh, Kay Dunlap (Lou) of Franklin and Donald Hannah (Connie) of Oil City; her step-son Gary Downing (Linda) of St. Petersburg; her granddaughter Lorie Michael; her nieces, April Chapin (Scott) of Oil City, Dawn Barscz (Jamie) of Oil City and Crystal Hannah of Oil City; and her nephew Keith Hannah (Rachel) of Waco, TX. She is also survived by six great grandchildren, three great-great grandchildren, ten great nieces and nephews, and four great-great nieces and nephews.
Junior Eisenhuth, 89, of Knox passed away Sunday April 26, 2020 at the UPMC Northwest Hospital in Seneca.
Junior was born in Beaver Township on October 6, 1930 to Ed and Nellie Eisenhuth. He was the youngest of seven siblings.
Junior graduated from the White Memorial High School in 1950. After graduating, Junior worked at several area businesses before being drafted in December of 1951. He completed basic training at Fort Leonard Wood in MO, from there was shipped out to Korea. While in the military he acted as a crane shovel operator and served in the 2nd Division (Hell on Wheels). In his short time in the military he earned the rank of Sergeant and was awarded with the National Defense Medal, United Nations Service Medal, Korean Service Medal (3 Bronze Stars), and the Good Conduct Medal.
Upon returning home from Korea in 1953 Junior married his sweetheart Mary Armstrong who preceded him in death in 2013.
Junior has worked for and owned many local businesses throughout the years. He began his working U.S. Corrugated. In 1956 Junior opened the Atlantic Richfield Service Station which was later renamed the Arco Station. Many residents may remember getting gas at his station during this time and receiving promotional gifts. In 1981 Junior moved his business to the Quaker State Gas Station and then in 1987 he bought the Slicker Pipe and Tool building and turned it into Jr’s Service Center. He retired in 1992 and sold the garage to his son in law Jeff Wollaston so it could continue to flourish.
Junior was well known for driving the Keystone High School's activities bus from 1954 to 2007 and regular school bus routes from 1972 to 2007.
Junior belonged to several local organizations. He served as the Little League Baseball President and served on the Knox Ambulance Board. He was a member of the Knox Lions, the Knox Volunteer Fire Co., the Wentlings Coroners Community Club for over 20 years, the Clarion County Rod and Gun Club since 1956, the American Legion since 1970, the Bucktails of Beaver Township where he served as president for 14 years and the Edenburg Masonic Lodge 550 for 60 years where he earned the 32 Degree.
Junior loved the outdoors and was an avid hunter and fisherman. He was involved in the Beaver Ponds Project for 10 years, was active in the Clarion County Federation of Sportsmen’s Clubs for over 20 years and served as County Delegate for over 15 years. He was a member of the Northwest Division of PFSC for over 16 years, Vice President for 3 years and President for 2 years as well. In 1991 Junior became the President of the Clarion County Sportsman for Youth which he held for 14 years before stepping down. His grand children loved attending the Youth Field Day and spending time with their “Poppie, he would always call their mom’s the night before registration and remind them to get the kids signed up. For his years of involvement in all the organizations he was recognized as the 2002 Clarion County Conservation Person of the Year, in 2010 was inducted into the PA Sportsman’s Hall of Fame and in 2018 was Knox’s Citizen of the Year.
Junior is survived by his three daughters, Penny (Randy) Carpenter of New Castle, Sharon (Merle) Heeter of Knox, and Lori Wollaston and her friend Scott Cochran of Knox, his grandchildren, Stacey (Bob) Best, Craig (Crystal) Carpenter, Sean (Brittany) Carpenter, Amanda Meisel, Angie (Jared) Dehart, Alysha (Matt) Heeter and Jessica Wollaston and his great grandchildren Lydia, Lucas, Ryan, Jaxen, Izabella, Melanie and Nicholas.
Along with his wife and parents Junior was preceded in death by a granddaughter Amber Heeter, a son in law Jeffery Wollaston and his siblings Grace Best, Sara Best, Sam Eisenhuth, John Eisenhuth, Frank Eisenhuth and Bob Eisenhuth.
Junior was born in Beaver Township on October 6, 1930 to Ed and Nellie Eisenhuth. He was the youngest of seven siblings.
Junior graduated from the White Memorial High School in 1950. After graduating, Junior worked at several area businesses before being drafted in December of 1951. He completed basic training at Fort Leonard Wood in MO, from there was shipped out to Korea. While in the military he acted as a crane shovel operator and served in the 2nd Division (Hell on Wheels). In his short time in the military he earned the rank of Sergeant and was awarded with the National Defense Medal, United Nations Service Medal, Korean Service Medal (3 Bronze Stars), and the Good Conduct Medal.
Upon returning home from Korea in 1953 Junior married his sweetheart Mary Armstrong who preceded him in death in 2013.
Junior has worked for and owned many local businesses throughout the years. He began his working U.S. Corrugated. In 1956 Junior opened the Atlantic Richfield Service Station which was later renamed the Arco Station. Many residents may remember getting gas at his station during this time and receiving promotional gifts. In 1981 Junior moved his business to the Quaker State Gas Station and then in 1987 he bought the Slicker Pipe and Tool building and turned it into Jr’s Service Center. He retired in 1992 and sold the garage to his son in law Jeff Wollaston so it could continue to flourish.
Junior was well known for driving the Keystone High School's activities bus from 1954 to 2007 and regular school bus routes from 1972 to 2007.
Junior belonged to several local organizations. He served as the Little League Baseball President and served on the Knox Ambulance Board. He was a member of the Knox Lions, the Knox Volunteer Fire Co., the Wentlings Coroners Community Club for over 20 years, the Clarion County Rod and Gun Club since 1956, the American Legion since 1970, the Bucktails of Beaver Township where he served as president for 14 years and the Edenburg Masonic Lodge 550 for 60 years where he earned the 32 Degree.
Junior loved the outdoors and was an avid hunter and fisherman. He was involved in the Beaver Ponds Project for 10 years, was active in the Clarion County Federation of Sportsmen’s Clubs for over 20 years and served as County Delegate for over 15 years. He was a member of the Northwest Division of PFSC for over 16 years, Vice President for 3 years and President for 2 years as well. In 1991 Junior became the President of the Clarion County Sportsman for Youth which he held for 14 years before stepping down. His grand children loved attending the Youth Field Day and spending time with their “Poppie, he would always call their mom’s the night before registration and remind them to get the kids signed up. For his years of involvement in all the organizations he was recognized as the 2002 Clarion County Conservation Person of the Year, in 2010 was inducted into the PA Sportsman’s Hall of Fame and in 2018 was Knox’s Citizen of the Year.
Junior is survived by his three daughters, Penny (Randy) Carpenter of New Castle, Sharon (Merle) Heeter of Knox, and Lori Wollaston and her friend Scott Cochran of Knox, his grandchildren, Stacey (Bob) Best, Craig (Crystal) Carpenter, Sean (Brittany) Carpenter, Amanda Meisel, Angie (Jared) Dehart, Alysha (Matt) Heeter and Jessica Wollaston and his great grandchildren Lydia, Lucas, Ryan, Jaxen, Izabella, Melanie and Nicholas.
Along with his wife and parents Junior was preceded in death by a granddaughter Amber Heeter, a son in law Jeffery Wollaston and his siblings Grace Best, Sara Best, Sam Eisenhuth, John Eisenhuth, Frank Eisenhuth and Bob Eisenhuth.
Benjamin Michael Gates, the 16-month old son of TM3 USN Michael Zachary Gates and Kara D. Fulmer Gates of Norfolk, VA, died Monday, January 20, 2020 in Norfolk. Benjamin was born in Portsmouth, VA on September 24, 2018.
In addition to his parents, Benjamin is survived by two sisters, Kina L. Gates and Bria A. Gates, at home in Norfolk; his paternal grandparents, Michael L. and Judy A. Gates of Emlenton; his maternal grandmother, Kelly Lawrence and her companion, Robert Kunselman of Strattanville; his maternal grandfather, Kevin S. Fulmer of Callensburg, his paternal great grandmother, Linda E. Gates of Foxburg, and his maternal great grandmother, Yvonne C. Haskell of Clarion, as well as a number of aunts, uncles, great and great great aunts, uncles and cousins.
Benjamin was preceded in death by a number of paternal and maternal great and great great grandparents and great and great great aunts and uncles.
In addition to his parents, Benjamin is survived by two sisters, Kina L. Gates and Bria A. Gates, at home in Norfolk; his paternal grandparents, Michael L. and Judy A. Gates of Emlenton; his maternal grandmother, Kelly Lawrence and her companion, Robert Kunselman of Strattanville; his maternal grandfather, Kevin S. Fulmer of Callensburg, his paternal great grandmother, Linda E. Gates of Foxburg, and his maternal great grandmother, Yvonne C. Haskell of Clarion, as well as a number of aunts, uncles, great and great great aunts, uncles and cousins.
Benjamin was preceded in death by a number of paternal and maternal great and great great grandparents and great and great great aunts and uncles.
2019 Obituaries
Peter Lee Balsamo
July 13, 1940 - September 22, 2019
Peter Lee Balsamo, 79, of Meadville, passed away Sunday, September 22, 2019 at Wesbury United Methodist Community surrounded by his loving family.
He was born July 13, 1940 in Meadville, a son of Peter Thomas and Anna Craig Balsamo. He married Carol Derby December 21, 1961 and she preceded him in death December 31, 1999.
Pete was a 1959 graduate of Meadville High School. He was a U.S. Navy Veteran, serving from 1958 to 1961. He worked at Pat & Pete's Grocery, Weldon's Clothing, Meadville Ambulance Service, former manager of the Downtown Mall in Meadville, former building superintendent for the Crawford County Court House, and at Westminster Highlands Church Camp.
Pete was a member of the First Presbyterian Church. He was a former member of the Rotary Club of Meadville, Meadville Elks Lodge 219, and former volunteer fireman for the Davis and Dick Hose Companies. He was actively involved for many years with Boy Scout Troop 244 and enjoyed traveling and gardening.
Survivors include nine children, Louan Hicks (Don) of Brownstown, IN, Kevin Balsamo (Traci) of Meadville, Marcie Coward (Jerry) of McKean, Robert Balsamo (Heather) of Janesville, WI, Scott Balsamo (Jenny) of Slippery Rock, Joseph Balsamo of Conneaut Lake, Heather Balsamo (Kevin Thompson, Sr.) of Meadville, Timothy Balsamo (Holly) of Clintonville, and Aaron Balsamo of Philadelphia; 23 grandchildren; 6 great-grandchildren; a brother-in-law, Robert (Bob) Derby of Dudley, NC; and 1 niece and 1 nephew.
In addition to his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by a granddaughter, Elisabeth.
He was born July 13, 1940 in Meadville, a son of Peter Thomas and Anna Craig Balsamo. He married Carol Derby December 21, 1961 and she preceded him in death December 31, 1999.
Pete was a 1959 graduate of Meadville High School. He was a U.S. Navy Veteran, serving from 1958 to 1961. He worked at Pat & Pete's Grocery, Weldon's Clothing, Meadville Ambulance Service, former manager of the Downtown Mall in Meadville, former building superintendent for the Crawford County Court House, and at Westminster Highlands Church Camp.
Pete was a member of the First Presbyterian Church. He was a former member of the Rotary Club of Meadville, Meadville Elks Lodge 219, and former volunteer fireman for the Davis and Dick Hose Companies. He was actively involved for many years with Boy Scout Troop 244 and enjoyed traveling and gardening.
Survivors include nine children, Louan Hicks (Don) of Brownstown, IN, Kevin Balsamo (Traci) of Meadville, Marcie Coward (Jerry) of McKean, Robert Balsamo (Heather) of Janesville, WI, Scott Balsamo (Jenny) of Slippery Rock, Joseph Balsamo of Conneaut Lake, Heather Balsamo (Kevin Thompson, Sr.) of Meadville, Timothy Balsamo (Holly) of Clintonville, and Aaron Balsamo of Philadelphia; 23 grandchildren; 6 great-grandchildren; a brother-in-law, Robert (Bob) Derby of Dudley, NC; and 1 niece and 1 nephew.
In addition to his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by a granddaughter, Elisabeth.
Sandy Clark
06/29/1947 - 09/19/2019
Sandra K. “Sandy” Clark, 72, of Emlenton, went to be with the Lord early Thursday morning, September 19, 2019 while surrounded by her loving family at UPMC Shadyside following a brief illness.
Sandra was born in Oil City on June 29, 1947. She was the daughter of the late Eugene N. “Gene” and Gertrude M. “Trudy” Gerwick Ritts.
Sandy was a graduate of Allegheny-Clarion Valley School District in 1965, the last class that graduated from the Emlenton High School building. She was a long time active member of New Zion E. C. Church in Emlenton. She had served as Sunday School treasurer and board member and coordinated church funeral dinners for many years. Sandy had a kind and loving personality, always concerned for others.
Sandy was a homemaker and was employed for more than 10 years as a cashier at Wal-Mart in Cranberry. She and her husband enjoyed attending car cruises and shows.
Surviving is her husband, David M. Clark, whom she married in Lamartine on December 2, 1967. Also surviving are three children, Terry L. Clark and his wife, Maria, and Tammy L. Courson and her husband, Clay, all of Emlenton, and Tricia L. Way and her husband, Michael, of Sarver; five grandchildren, Allison, Seth, Justin and his wife, Ashley, Jadyn and Dalton; two great grandchildren, Aleya and Kayge; a brother, Kenneth E. Ritts and his wife, Barb, of Emlenton; a sister-in-law, Debbie Bolden, of Columbus, OH, as well as a number of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
In addition to her parents, Sandy was preceded in death by her in-laws.
Sandra was born in Oil City on June 29, 1947. She was the daughter of the late Eugene N. “Gene” and Gertrude M. “Trudy” Gerwick Ritts.
Sandy was a graduate of Allegheny-Clarion Valley School District in 1965, the last class that graduated from the Emlenton High School building. She was a long time active member of New Zion E. C. Church in Emlenton. She had served as Sunday School treasurer and board member and coordinated church funeral dinners for many years. Sandy had a kind and loving personality, always concerned for others.
Sandy was a homemaker and was employed for more than 10 years as a cashier at Wal-Mart in Cranberry. She and her husband enjoyed attending car cruises and shows.
Surviving is her husband, David M. Clark, whom she married in Lamartine on December 2, 1967. Also surviving are three children, Terry L. Clark and his wife, Maria, and Tammy L. Courson and her husband, Clay, all of Emlenton, and Tricia L. Way and her husband, Michael, of Sarver; five grandchildren, Allison, Seth, Justin and his wife, Ashley, Jadyn and Dalton; two great grandchildren, Aleya and Kayge; a brother, Kenneth E. Ritts and his wife, Barb, of Emlenton; a sister-in-law, Debbie Bolden, of Columbus, OH, as well as a number of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
In addition to her parents, Sandy was preceded in death by her in-laws.
Joan P. Carpenter
09/16/1936 ~ 08/07/2019
Joan P. Carpenter, 82, of Meadville died Sunday, July 7, 2019 at Meadville Medical Center. She was born September 16, 1936 in Bradford, PA a daughter of Carl and Grace Eggleston Andrews. She had been married to Louis H. Carpenter, Jr. and he preceded her in death November 7, 2015.
She was a 1955 graduate of Randolph High School and worked as an operator with Bell Telephone Co. She was a former member of Lyona Bible Church and had attended New Beginnings Church of God. She was a member of the Pioneers (a Bell Telephone Group) and enjoyed knitting, crocheting, cooking and baking.
She is survived by a son, Randy L. Carpenter (Penny) of New Castle; a daughter, Gloria McNamara (Bret) of Meadville; six grandchildren, Craig, Kyle, Sean, Keri, Mandi and Stacey; eleven great grandchildren; a sister, Iva Lou (Tootie) Vecillio of Nashville, TN; a twin brother, John Andrews (Mary) of Meadville and several nieces and nephews.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her step-mother, Jane Andrews.
She was a 1955 graduate of Randolph High School and worked as an operator with Bell Telephone Co. She was a former member of Lyona Bible Church and had attended New Beginnings Church of God. She was a member of the Pioneers (a Bell Telephone Group) and enjoyed knitting, crocheting, cooking and baking.
She is survived by a son, Randy L. Carpenter (Penny) of New Castle; a daughter, Gloria McNamara (Bret) of Meadville; six grandchildren, Craig, Kyle, Sean, Keri, Mandi and Stacey; eleven great grandchildren; a sister, Iva Lou (Tootie) Vecillio of Nashville, TN; a twin brother, John Andrews (Mary) of Meadville and several nieces and nephews.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her step-mother, Jane Andrews.
Francis M. “Bill” Heckethorn Jr., 77, of Emlenton, passed away Friday, June 28, 2019 at UPMC Mercy Hospital while surrounded by his family.
Born in Eau Claire on October 8, 1941, Bill was the son of the late Francis M. and Velma Greenawalt Heckethorn. After the untimely passing of his mother at age 4, Bill was raised by his aunt and uncle, Don and Glenna Kohlmeyer.
Bill was a 1960 graduate of Moniteau High School. He then served six years in the U.S. Army National Guard. He attended New Zion E.C. Church in Emlenton. Bill was an avid outdoorsman, spending much time gardening, cutting wood, turkey hunting and groundhog hunting, and fishing, especially in Canada. Bill was an avid NASCAR fan and a loyal “Ford Man”. Bill had a well-known passion for the “big boy toys” and occasionally pushing their limits. He owned and flew an ultralight airplane, several motorcycles and snowmobiles, and antique Jubilee and Ferguson tractors. Above all else, Bill enjoyed spending time with his grandson, Joshua.
Bill had been employed by Central Electric Cooperative for 38 years, retiring in 2009.
Surviving is his wife, Paula J. Renfrew Heckethorn, whom he married at the Nickleville Presbyterian Church on November 5, 1966. Also surviving is a son, Jay B. Heckethorn and his wife, Sarah, of Seneca; a grandson, Joshua David Heckethorn; three sisters, Jean Carlson of Findley, OH, Nancy Weeter of Emlenton, and Kay Courson of Sligo, as well as a number of nieces, nephews, cousins, brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law.
In addition to his parents and aunt and uncle, Bill was preceded in death by several brothers-in-law.
Born in Eau Claire on October 8, 1941, Bill was the son of the late Francis M. and Velma Greenawalt Heckethorn. After the untimely passing of his mother at age 4, Bill was raised by his aunt and uncle, Don and Glenna Kohlmeyer.
Bill was a 1960 graduate of Moniteau High School. He then served six years in the U.S. Army National Guard. He attended New Zion E.C. Church in Emlenton. Bill was an avid outdoorsman, spending much time gardening, cutting wood, turkey hunting and groundhog hunting, and fishing, especially in Canada. Bill was an avid NASCAR fan and a loyal “Ford Man”. Bill had a well-known passion for the “big boy toys” and occasionally pushing their limits. He owned and flew an ultralight airplane, several motorcycles and snowmobiles, and antique Jubilee and Ferguson tractors. Above all else, Bill enjoyed spending time with his grandson, Joshua.
Bill had been employed by Central Electric Cooperative for 38 years, retiring in 2009.
Surviving is his wife, Paula J. Renfrew Heckethorn, whom he married at the Nickleville Presbyterian Church on November 5, 1966. Also surviving is a son, Jay B. Heckethorn and his wife, Sarah, of Seneca; a grandson, Joshua David Heckethorn; three sisters, Jean Carlson of Findley, OH, Nancy Weeter of Emlenton, and Kay Courson of Sligo, as well as a number of nieces, nephews, cousins, brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law.
In addition to his parents and aunt and uncle, Bill was preceded in death by several brothers-in-law.
