Wednesday, September 02, 2026

Death of Debra (Dowler) Campbell



Fort LeBoeuf High School Class of 1974

Debra Frances Campbell (Dowler) age 69, and resident of the family farm in LeBoeuf Township, died Wednesday, March 4th, 2026 at St. Vincent Hospital after a sudden illness and complications to Congestive Heart Failure. She was born December 12th, 1956 to the late Donald and Dolores Dowler of Mill Village, PA. She was also preceded in death by her husband and best friend of 44 years, Kevin in the spring of 2021.

Debbie is survived by her three sons: Jason (Patty) of Cambridge Springs, Brian (Renea) of Mill Village, and John (Charity) of Ashville, NY; grandchildren- Cody Kuhn (Kaysie), Jake Kuhn (Christina), Brady Campbell, Heather McClanahan, Danielle Cornwell, and Bristol Campbell; brothers- Dean Dowler (Fran) and David Dowler; sister-in-law Cassie Campbell; nephews- Chris Withers (Brenda), Kurt Dowler, Cody Dowler (Lori), and Travis Dowler (Alexis); many cousins, several great-grandchildren, and several great-nieces/nephews.

After all her boys grew old enough to head off to school, Debbie worked briefly for the Post Office in Mill Village, and then began working in multiple positions over the years with the Fort LeBoeuf School District, until her retirement in 2016.

She could always be found in her two favorite places - on the porch visiting with family and friends, or in a lawn chair catching a ball game. Beginning with the softball games she played in, her brother’s baseball and softball, her husband’s baseball and softball, son’s and grandson’s baseball and softball, and granddaughter’s softball, she has enjoyed easily over 1000 games in her lifetime, half of which she probably kept the scorebook.

Her family hosted a Celebration of Life luncheon on Sunday, May 31st, at the Mill Village Volunteer Fire Company’s social hall, 14408 N. Main Street, Mill Village, PA 16427.

The family wishes that any memorial donations be made to LeBoeuf Little League, P.O. Box 700, Waterford, PA 16441.

Thanks to L.E. Steadman for furnishing the above obituary!

Monday, August 31, 2026

Death of Gerald "Jerry" Newell



Fort LeBoeuf High School Class of 1971

Gerald, "Jerry" Newell, 73, of Erie, passed away with family by his side on August 23, 2026 after a brief illness. Jerry was born August 22,1953 to Gerald and Marjorie (Hull) Newell. He graduated from Ft. Leboeuf high school in 1971 and upon graduation enrolled in the apprentice program at General Electric. He worked as a machinist at GE for 38 years until his retirement. Jerry loved sports and was a diehard Dallas Cowboys and Los Angeles Dodgers fan. He loved classic cars, had an extensive music collection and was an avid reader. He was a member of several billiards leagues in the area and enjoyed the friendships he made there.

Jerry is survived by his loving sister, Sharon Newell of Erie and very special niece, Tiffanie Newell (Rich); a brother, Craig Newell (Darlene) of Erie; nieces and nephews Ashley, Josh (Kayla), Makayla (Brandon) and Shane; and great nieces Rylee, Lydia and Nyla.

Jerry was a generous and loving brother who had a smile for everyone and will be greatly missed by his family and friends. Many thanks to Jerry’s caregivers: The staff at Westlake woods, and the nurses, aides and hospice team at LECOM Presque Isle.

Per Jerry’s wishes, no calling hours will be observed.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Davis-Garr Cremation and Funeral Services, Inc. 459 East 12th Street, Erie, Pennsylvania 16503. Online condolences may be sent to Davisgarrfuneralhome.com.

Thanks to Bruce Adams for furnishing the above obituary

Wednesday August 26, 2026

Dr. Susan Duran Heide, a beloved educator and cherished family matriarch, passed away peacefully at home on August 20, 2026. Born on November 17, 1941, in Cranesville, Pennsylvania, Susan was the daughter of Martin and Susan (Hanas) Duran. Her journey through life was marked by her dedication to education, her love for the arts, and an infectious joy for life.

Susan was a beacon of knowledge and inspiration, having graduated from Fort LeBoeuf High School in 1958 before pursuing higher education with a Master's degree in Education from Duquesne University. She furthered her expertise by earning a Ph.D. from the School of Education at the University of Pittsburgh. Her career began in the classroom, teaching high school English at Mt. Lebanon High School and Peters Township High School in Pittsburgh, PA. Her passion for teaching eventually led her to the university level, where she retired as an Associate Professor of Education and Director of Field Experience from the University of Wisconsin - Superior.

Her love for people and her vibrant laughter were as much a part of her as her scholarly pursuits. She was an avid fan of the Pittsburgh Penguins and a devoted supporter of the arts, holding season tickets to numerous performances in Pittsburgh and at Carnegie Mellon University. Her adventurous spirit took her around the globe, embracing new cultures with open arms.

She was predeceased by her husband, Rev. August William Heide, her parents, one brother, and seven sisters. She is survived by her loving children, Jill (Heide) Hansen and Carl Heide, and her cherished grandchildren, Niels and Christian Hansen. Susan is also remembered fondly by her brother, Martin Duran.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the UPMC Medical Center for their compassionate care in recent years. A private funeral ceremony will be held to honor Susan's life.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Susan's memory can be made to Lutheran World Relief, a testament to her enduring commitment to service and her faith.

The family leaves you with Susan's guiding mantra: "Live, love, and laugh." Her legacy of warmth, wisdom, and joy will continue to inspire all who knew her.

Thanks to Shirley Robertson Sackett for furnishing the above obituary!

Friday, August 21, 2026

Death of Francis "Gene" Gray



Fort LeBoeuf High School Class of 1958

Francis Eugene (Gene) Gray, 85, passed away at his home in Mesa, Arizona on April 3, 2026. Gene spent most of his life in Waterford, Pennsylvania and retired in Mesa Arizona. Gene carried the values of his hometown with him throughout his life which was marked by love, integrity and service. Gene was proud of his military service where he served in Naval Intelligence with the United States Navy. Following his military service Gene made his career in the United States Postal Service, from which he eventually retired after 32 years. Gene loved his wife and best friend, Doreen Gray. They spent 37 years as a couple together, 33 years of which they were happily married. They created a beautiful home filled with love and close companionship in the desert of Arizona. Gene will be remembered for his intense love, his unmatched quick humor and quiet strength. He will be eternally loved and missed by his devoted wife.

Thanks to Shirley Robinson Sackett for furnishing the above obituary.

Friday, August 21, 2026

Death of Peggy Blum Timko



Fort LeBoeuf High School Class of 1958

Peggy Ann (Blum) Timko, age 85, of Pleasantville, formerly of Albion and Edinboro went to join her husband and son in heaven on Tuesday, December 9, 2025. She passed at her residence with her daughter, Tammy, at her side. Peggy was born in Warren, PA on March 2, 1940, daughter of the late Walter Carl Blum and Reta Virginia (Streets) Blum. On November 12, 1960, at the Clymer Methodist Church in Clymer, NY. She married the love of her life, David Frank Timko who preceded her in death on December 6, 2012. They were together 52 years and are now rejoined again forever in heaven.

Peggy graduated from Fort LeBoeuf High School in Waterford, PA in 1958. She had been employed at Penn Union of Edinboro. She had her own ceramic business for several years and worked at Spectrum Control of Fairview. The job she loved most was mother to her children. She enjoyed sewing and baking for the family and gathering all her siblings and families together for card parties. In her earlier years, she enjoyed roller skating. In addition to her husband David Frank Timko, Peggy was preceded in death by son Danny Walter Timko, sister Pearl Metzler, brother Carl Blum and his wife Patty and brother Milford “Mutt” Blum.

Peggy is survived by daughter Tammy Timko of Pleasantville, daughter-in-law Linda Shorts-Timko of Titusville, one granddaughter Mackennah Timko, brother Ernie and his wife Carol of Tionesta, sister Pearl Metzler of Edinboro who was reunited with her on December 10, 2025, and Pearl’s husband Emery Metzler, sister-in-law Ronda Blum of Waterford, brother-in-laws Carl and Frank Timko of Springboro, several nieces and nephews, and her long time friend Betty King formerly of Townville now of New Wilmington.

Friendscalled at Van Matre Funeral Home in Cambridge Springs on Saturday, December 13 at 11 am until the funeral service were held at 1 o’clock. Interment followed at Venango Cemetery.

Thanks to Shirley Robinson Sackett for furnishing the above obituary.

Friday, August 21, 2026

Death of Joan Coffin Rhea



Fort LeBoeuf High School Class of 1958

Joan Coffin Rhea, age 86, passed away after a brief illness at her home surrounded by loved ones on Thursday, May 28, 2026.

She was born on February 28, 1940 in Waterford Township to the late Fuller Hogsett Coffin and Helen Coffin. After graduation from Fort LeBoeuf High School in 1958, she was the secretary to the Vice President of Erie Malleable Iron Company for twelve years.

Joan had a very successful and well known Paint and Quarter Horse breeding operation and sold horses all over the country. She raised Santa Fe Sonny, American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) stallion, and showed him to Superior Halter, Superior Western Pleasure, and AQHA Champion awards. She was recognized as one of the top 15 AQHA breeders in the United States. She also loved antiques and excelled at decorating.

She is preceded in death by her sister and best friend, Sue Ann Plaza, and survived by her husband James Rhea, brothers Tom and George Coffin, four children: Sally (Mark) Wilde, James Jr. (Darlene) Rhea, John (Dawn) Rhea, and Sandra (Rick) Scott, and grandchildren: Lindsey Wilde, Laura Wilde, Shannon Fidler, Kevin Rhea, Katelyn Scott, and Michael Scott as well as step-grandchildren Katie Oaks and Steven Frontera.

Private funeral arrangements have been entrusted to James Rhea. Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at 262 Danny Thomas Pl, Memphis, TN 38105.

Thanks to Shirley Robinson Sackett for furnishing the above obituary.

Sunday, August 16, 2026

Death of Diane Lynn Raver



Fort LeBoeuf High School Class of 1971

Diane Lynn Raver, age 68, of East 1st Street, Waterford, completed her final trip around the sun on December 4, 2021. Born in Pittsburgh, Pa., on August 14, 1953, she was the daughter of Dean D. and Ellen G. “Nellie” Hensler Raver, who predeceased her.

Diane lived her life in pursuit of knowledge; she had an insatiable curiosity, and enjoyed spending significant time outdoors, camping, hiking, and running. Her life‘s work may have been chemistry, but even the detailed and tedious study of compounds was not enough to satisfy her thirst for knowledge. Later in life, she began studying computer science, and electronics generally, and worked at Verizon. When stuck indoors, Diane taught herself woodworking and ceramics. Diane held a blackbelt in Karate, and was a formidable opponent – even for her three brothers.

In addition to her parents, Dean and Nellie, she was preceded in death by her younger brother, Bobby Raver.

She will be remembered by her brothers Dean W. and his wife Bonni Raver; David N. and his wife Angela H. Raver; a niece Jackie Raver and her three children, Erin, Morgan, and Quinn; and a nephew Robert Raver and his wife Shayna, and their two children, Benjamin and Vivienne.

Visiting hours were at Van Matre Funeral Home in Waterford on Wednesday evening from 6 until 8 p.m. The funeral service was held there Thursday morning at 11 a.m. followed by burial in Waterford Cemetery.

Thanks to Bruce Adams for furnishing the above obituary

Wednesday, July 23, 2026

Death of Andrew John Bengel



Fort LeBoeuf High School Class of 1988

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Andrew John Bengel, age 56, of Waterford on Monday, July 20, 2026. He was born in Union City, PA to Charles and Marguerite Bengel.

Andy was a 1988 graduate of Fort LeBoeuf High School. He ran Bengel Brothers Dairy Farm with his brothers Charlie, Joe and Chris until 1997. His first job was at Troyer Farms where he worked for many years. He then went off and started his own business, Bengel Trucking, which grew and grew into Bengel Excavating. Andy lived a life anchored in hard work, integrity, and a generous spirit. Andy had a good sense of humor and always had one of his boxers (Sophie and Lelia) with him.

He is lovingly remembered by his wife of 32 years, Kara; his children Jacob (Sydney) and Adam (Taylor); two beautiful granddaughters, Elliot (who he called Ellie) and Adrian (who he called Dree); brothers Charles Bengel, Joseph Bengel, and Christopher Bengel; sisters Amy Swanson, Mary Skinner, Jennifer Smith, Laura Bengel, and Rosemary Hanas; as well as 6 nephews and 13 nieces.

He is preceded in death by his parents and his nephew Thomas Bengel.

Visiting hours will be at Van Matre Funeral Home in Waterford on Sunday, July 26th from 2-4 and 6-8pm. A prayer service will be held there Monday, July 27th at 9:15am followed by the Mass of Christian Burial at St. Teresa of Avila Church in Union City at 10:00am. Burial and luncheon will follow at Bengel Pond.

To share condolences, please visit www.vanmatrefuneralhome.com.

Wednesday, July 23, 2026

Death of Richard William "Skip" McCullough



Fort LeBoeuf High School Class of 1971

Richard William "Skip" McCullough, age 74, of Waterford, died accidentally on Friday, May 29, 2026, doing what he loved - turkey hunting. He was born January 23, 1952 in Erie and graduated from Fort LeBoeuf High School in 1971. He was employed by General Electric for 37 years.

Rich knew everybody in town, and all would know that he was a man who loved the great outdoors. Hunting, especially turkey and deer, was his passion, and archery was his favorite. Rich could always recall a good hunting story, and many lasting friendships were made in the woods. Hunting with his daughter and granddaughter always made for special times- now cherished memories.

Rich and Kathy were married May 23, 1983. They enjoyed many trips together, and Kathy appreciated that Rich was actually a good cook. Rich was proud that he was able to hunt Merriam turkeys out West.

In addition to his parents, Rich was preceded in death by his sister Diane Haibach, his half-brother Ron McCullough, and his half-sister Dee Carson.

Survivors include his wife, Kathy Jones McCullough; son David McCullough, and daughter Kristi McCullough; granddaughter Aubrie Lanagan; half-brothers Dan Carson, Tom Carson, Bill Carson, and Bill McCullough; half-sister Connie Daws; and many nieces and nephews, and great- nieces and nephews.

Friends and family were invited to call at Van Matre Funeral Home, Waterford on Monday, June 1st from 4-7 pm. The funeral service was held there on Tuesday, June 2nd at 11:00 am officiated by Rev. Tori Heath of Asbury Global Methodist Church, Waterford. Committal service and burial followed in Waterford Community Cemetery East.

Thanks to Bruce Adams for furnishing the above obituary!

Saturday, July 11, 2026

Death of Gary Bernard Williams

           

Waterford High School Class of 1964

Gary Bernard Williams, formerly of Wilder, KY, passed away peacefully on June 27th, 2026, in Erie, PA, surrounded by his loving family and close friends after a courageous battle with Parkinson’s disease. Gary was born on November 5, 1946, in Meadville, PA to Bernard and Alberta (Roha) Williams. Gary graduated from Fort Le Boeuf High School in June of 1964 and enlisted in the army the following December. During his time in Germany, he became skilled in printing, a trade that he continued to pursue after the service.

Gary met the love of his life, Patti, in 1981, and they got married on June 2, 1990. They resided in Wilder, KY, where they spent the happiest years of their lives together. They cherished their friends and family, spending time with their dog Winston (Winnie), traveling together, and attending Kentucky Wildcat games. Gary also enjoyed listening to music, playing the guitar, and traveling back home to PA during the winter months to ski, visit his family, and catch up with his close friends. Gary retired from Duke Energy, formerly Cincinnati Gas and Electric, and spent his later years with Patti enjoying their beautiful home, their city, and their pool days together. After Patti passed away in August of 2023, Gary moved back to Erie to be closer to his family. There wasn’t a day that went by that he didn’t think about Patti-they shared a special love to last beyond a lifetime. His family is at peace knowing the two of them are finally reunited.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Patricia (Patti) Williams, his parents, Bernard and Alberta Williams, his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Charles (Bud) and Jane Almoslechner, his sister, Deborah McGarrey, and his brother-in-law, Michael McGarrey.

He is survived by his sister Sandra Fruscella (Raymond) of Encinitas, CA, his brother Scott (Ruth) Williams of Cochranton, PA , his sister Tama (Anthony) Samol of Fairview, PA, his brother-in-law Michael (Kathy) Almoslechner of Bellevue, KY, several nieces and nephews, great nieces and great nephews, and many dear friends.

Gary was a very kind gentleman, husband, brother, uncle, neighbor, and friend. He enjoyed good company, had a great sense of humor, and was a good listener. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends and forever loved. All arrangements were handled by the Dusckas-Martin Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 4216 Sterrettania Rd.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Thanks to Marlene Myers Kibbe for furnishing the above obituary!

Tuesday, July 07, 2026

Death of James "Jim" Couchenour, Sr.



Waterford High School Class of 1953

James "Jim" R. Couchenour, Sr. is dancing with the angels. He peacefully took his final earthly breath on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, at his home in Tarpon Springs, Florida. During his 90 years of life, Jim was known and loved as a devoted Christ-follower, husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, teacher, mentor, and friend to all who knew him. Born on September 11, 1935, his life was marked by unwavering faith, compassionate service, and a genuine love for people.

At home, 's greatest joy was his family. Jim had five children, Bill (born 1957; wife, Pam), Jim Jr. (1958; wife, Lynette), Dave (1961; wife, Diana), Scott (1965; wife, Jennifer), and Vicki (1969). They were also blessed with 14 grandchildren and their spouses: Bryan (Katie), Billy (Anna-Lise), Kristi, Katie (Andrew), Jamie (Nate), Ben (Nicole), AJ, Jessica, Anna (Damon), Sam (Allison), Liz, Heather, Paige (Ryan), Brooke, as well as 18 great grandchildren. He prayed regularly for each. His family knew him not only as a hardworking provider but as someone who loved to laugh and create lasting memories. One family favorite took place during a trip to Mt. Rushmore. As Jim stepped into the family's motorhome, he didn't realize the countertop had been extended across the doorway for dinner. He bumped his head, instinctively lifted it, only to hit it again. He lowered his head to protect himself and managed to scrape it a third time before finally making it inside. After getting stitched up, the family spent the rest of the trip laughing together, and Jim laughed right along with them. It was one of many moments that reflected his ability to find joy in life's unexpected mishaps.

Jim's compassion extended far beyond his own home. In 1988, he founded The Way Station, a ministry dedicated to serving thousands of people throughout the Mahoning Valley through compassionate, Christ-centered outreach. More than an organization, The Way Station became a reflection of Jim's heart, a ministry built on his belief that the Church was called to step beyond its walls and meet people where they were. Whether offering practical help, encouragement, or the hope of Christ, Jim sought to glorify God in every conversation and every act of service.

A successful business leader, nonprofit governance expert, author, and advocate for Christian ministry, Jim founded and served as president of Cogun Industries, a multi-million dollar company specializing in the development of churches and ministry facilities. His leadership also left a lasting mark on Christian higher education through his many years of service on the Board of Trustees at Mount Vernon Nazarene University, where he served for many years.

Jim's faith was never confined to one place. He and his beloved wife, Patricia Ann Nash Couchenour, embraced opportunities to travel throughout the United States and around the world. Whether serving on mission trips, encouraging ministry partners abroad, or simply experiencing God's creation through leisure travel, Jim viewed every journey as an opportunity to build relationships, serve others, and share Christ's love. He treasured the people he met, the cultures he experienced, and the lifelong friendships that grew from those travels.

Jim is preceded in death by Pat, his beloved wife of 63 years. Their love was a beautiful testimony of faithfulness, and Jim carried Pat in his heart every day during the six years since her passing. Their reunion in Heaven is a source of great comfort to those who loved them both.

Throughout his life, Jim seamlessly blended business leadership, ministry involvement, compassionate service, and deep devotion to his family. He was respected not simply for what he accomplished, but for how he lived, with integrity, humility, generosity, and an unwavering commitment to following Christ.

Jim leaves behind a legacy that cannot be measured by titles or achievements alone, but by the countless lives he touched through his kindness, servant's heart, steadfast faith, and unconditional love. His influence will continue to live on through his family, his ministry, and all who were blessed to know him. The old hymn Keep Sweet, which Jim's father sang to him throughout his childhood, remained close to his heart for the rest of his life. Its reminder that peace comes from laying life's burdens at the Master's feet was evident in the steadfast faith, gentle spirit, and compassion with which Jim lived each day.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to The Way Station, Inc., PO Box 449, Columbiana, OH 44408.

Monday, July 06, 2026

Death of Vern "Steve" Graham, Jr.



Fort LeBoeuf High School Class of 1956

I received word from Steve's wife Susan that Steve, 1956 Class President, 1956 Student Council President and long time friend passed on July 4, 2026, after a long fought battle with an illness!

Monday, June 08, 2026

Death of William J. McCracken, III



Fort LeBoeuf High School Class of 1967

William J. McCracken, III, 77, of Springboro, PA, died Friday, May 22, 2026 at his home. He was born on January 28, 1949, the son of the late William and Kathryn McCracken.

Bill graduated from Ft. LeBoeuf High School in 1967. He worked as a truck driver for Armellini Logistics and several other companies over the years.

He was a proud member of the Edinboro/McKean VFW, the Edinboro American Legion and the NRA.

He enjoyed reading, motorcycles, hunting and watching Westerns.

Bill served honorably in the US Navy during the Vietnam Era.

He was preceded in death by a daughter, Stephanie Williams; a brother, Bradley McCracken; and two sisters, Margaret (Peggy) Irwin and Kimerly McCracken.

Survivors include a son, Robert (Jen) Butterfield of Springboro; five daughters, Lori Adamson of Hadley, PA, Colleen Lord of Springboro, Amy McCracken of Tavares, Florida, Lisa Jarred of California, and Brandi (Greg) Tidd of Greenville, PA; a brother, James (Darlene) McCracken of Tidioute, PA; a sister, Cathy McCracken of Waterford; also numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Friends gathered at Glunt Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 210 Erie Street, Edinboro, on Friday, May 29, 2026 from 2 pm until the time of a memorial service at 3 pm. Burial of ashes will be at a later date in East Spring Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Edinboro American Legion Post #439, 200 Fairway Dr., Edinboro, PA 16412.

Thanks to Donna Cowley Edwards for furnishing the above obituary!

Wednesday, May 20, 2026

Death of Roger Leroy Stafford



Fort LeBoeuf High School Class of 1956

ROGER LEROY STAFFORD, 87 years old of The Villages, Florida passed away on February 21, 2026. Roger was born in Waterford PA on March 12, 1938, to Earl and Erma Stafford. He went to Waterford High School. June 3, 1960, Roger was married to Judith Allen Stafford in Union City PA. His primary vocation was in automotive service.

He loved his business in Wattsburg, PA called Stafford's Gulf Service that he and his wife ran. Throughout the years he owned other businesses as well, from other service stations to restaurants.

He moved his family to Sarasota, FL. in 1971 and then Hopkinsville, KY. followed by Colorado Springs CO. later in life before settling in The Villages FL. where he lived for over 24 years.

He is a US Army veteran having served in Germany from 1958-1960. He was a member of the Methodist Church in The Villages.

Roger enjoyed camping, vacations, yardwork, visiting with neighbors and his pets, and especially his family. Together with his wife Judy they were the heart and soul of the Stafford family and always enjoyed visits from his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren too!

They all called him "The Great Papa"!

Judy, his wife of 60 years preceded him in death in April 2020.

He is survived by his sons Jeffrey Stafford of West Hickory PA and Gary Stafford and his wife Wanda of Colorado Springs, CO. His sister Carol Stevenson of Sarasota, FL and his cousin Ron Stafford of Edinboro, PA. He had 5 grandchildren, Chase, Corey, Amberlea, Amanda and Aaron. He also had three great-grandchildren, Adam, Layla and Ivy.

Roger loved all animals especially dogs but was always looking out for homeless pets of any kind to help.

There will be a celebration of life, details coming soon.

If interested contact his sons for details.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to your local animal shelter under his name if you wish.

Monday, April 27, 2026

Death of William Dale McLaughtlin, Jr.



Fort LeBoeuf High School Class of 1987

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of William (Bill) Dale McLaughlin, Jr., our Billy, on April 16, 2026, at the age of 57. Billy was born August 28, 1968, in Erie, Pennsylvania to William Dale McLaughlin, Sr. and the late Jeanette (Wick) Brown.

Billy graduated from Fort LeBeouf High School in 1987 and was an active member of Laborers’ Local 603 for almost 40 years, performing heavy construction work for various companies over the years including William T. Spaeder, Onex, E.E. Austin, Swank, and Ray Showman, Jr. Excavating, to name only a few. Most recently he took the position of Business Manager for Laborers’ Local 603 and took the utmost care in working for his Union brothers, some of whom became like family. He always answered his phone, no matter the day or time or where he was when a call came in. He truly had a work ethic like no other.

He enjoyed skiing, bowling at the Cascade Club, spending Friday nights with Lisa and friends at Plymouth Tavern, and playing monthly card games with longtime friends, all of whom will remember him fondly. He looked forward to waking up early and heading to the beach to watch the sunrise over the ocean when on family Myrtle Beach vacations. He loved helping his dad at his farm and woodshop on Saturdays, followed by a family campfire, and washing cars on Sundays. He was a fabulous cook, a wicked bartender, and a loyal Union brother, but most of all, the most loving husband, father, papa, son, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend. He will truly be missed by all who were blessed to know him.

In addition to his mother, Billy was preceded in death by his maternal and paternal grandparents. He is survived by his father, William D. McLaughlin, Sr.; his loving wife of 34 years, Lisa; his daughter, Allie (Mark) Richardson; sons Daniel and Dominic McLaughlin; grandchildren Kylie Grace Richardson and Carter Brooks Richardson; his sisters: Brenda (Dave) Durant and Karry (Mark) Metzger; nieces Lauren and Morgan Durant; and too many other family members and friends to mention by name.

Billy was taken from us far too soon, but he fought until the end, showing courage, strength, and determination.

A special thank you to the most caring staff at AseraCare Hospice who allowed us to bring Billy home. Friends and family were invited to call at the Brugger Funeral Home & Crematory, 1595 W 38th St. Erie, PA 16508 on Tuesday April 21, 2026, from 2:00 to 7:00 PM. A Funeral Mass was celebrated at 10:00 AM on Wednesday at St. Patrick Catholic Church 130 E 4th St. Erie, PA 16507. Interment followed in Mill Village Cemetery. To send condolences please visit www.bruggerfuneralhomes.com.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Billy's honor to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, www.givenow.bloodcancerunited.org.

Wednesday, April 22, 2026

I received word from Marlene Myers Kibbe that William McLaughtlin passed away on April 16, 2026.

Wednesday, April 22, 2026

Death of Cheryl Ann (Eastman) Kamper



Fort LeBoeuf High School Class of 1975

Cheryl Kamper (Eastman), 69, of Cambridge Springs, PA, passed away on April 18, 2026 at Rollingfields in Conneautville, PA after battling with Alzheimers.

Cheryl was born on February 18, 1957 to Duane and Elsie Eastman of Mill Village, PA. After graduating from Fort LeBoeuf in 1975, she married and had two children, Selissa Chapman of Cambridge Springs and Denise (Frank) Rodgers of Saegertown, PA.

Cheryl was a passionate crocheting items and drinking her coffee. We will miss her greatly.

Cheryl was predeceased in death by her former husband Frank C. Kamper, Sr. of Spartansburg, PA, her parents Duane and Elsie Eastman of Mill Village, PA, her brother Allen C. Chilcotte of Meadville and her sister Jenny (Joe) McCune of Meadville.

She is survived by two fur grandkids, Blaze and Brinlee, two grandchildren, Gabriella Abernethy of Cambridge Springs, PA and Adriana (Michael) Abernethy of Martins Ferry, OH,and two great grandchildren, DaKari McCoy and Neveah Abernethy of Saegertown, PA. She is also survived by many special friends, her brothers Randy (Dar) Eastman of Erie, PA and James Eastman of Mill Village, PA, many nieces, nephews and cousins.

There will be a Celebration of life in future. The family will have a private burial at Rose Hill Cemetery, Spartansburg, PA at their convenience.

House of Paradise, Erie, PA is handling arrangements at this time.

A huge shoutout goes to the staff of Internim Hospice and the staff of Rollingfields in Conneautville, PA for all the love, care and support they have given to Cheryl and her family along this journey.