Wednesday, January 21, 2026

Death of Lyle "Sonny" Henry Hayes, Sr.



Husband of Fort LeBoeuf High School Class of 1956 Graduate, Sally Fox Hayes

Lyle "Sonny" Henry Hayes, Sr., 93, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family, on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at the David Simpson Hospice House in Cleveland. Sonny was born July 23, 1932, in Dunkirk, New York, to Lyle Hayes and Mary (Altweis) Hayes. He graduated in 1950 from West Farmington High School, where he was a standout athlete, playing both baseball and basketball. From 1952 to 1954, he proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Korean Conflict. Sonny worked for 44 years at Reliance Electric, where he was known for his strong work ethic and dedication.

On April 30, 1960, Sonny married the love of his life, Sally Fox, and together they shared 65 wonderful years of marriage.

Sonny had two passions in life: baseball and being a musician. He was a well-known and talented musician throughout Ohio and Pennsylvania. Beginning with the Missouri Fox Hunters, Sonny Hayes and the Mellowtones and ending with The Sonny Hayes Band. He brought joy to countless people by playing on the radio and television, as well as at weddings, dances, parties, and community events. He continued to enjoy music after retirement by watching and listening to his children play. A lifelong lover of baseball, Sonny also devoted 17 years coaching the ARC baseball team, sharing not only his knowledge of the game but also his patience, encouragement, and kindness. He especially enjoyed coaching with his son, Michael. He was deeply involved in his community, joining numerous clubs and taking an active role in the American Legion and VFW. Sonny enjoyed meeting new people and making lasting friendships. Above all else, Sonny treasured the time he spent with his family.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Sally Hayes "Sugar Babe"; his sister, Virginia Yocum; his children, Lyle (Becky) Hayes Jr., Robert Hayes, Michael (Renae) Hayes, Denise (Randy) Waite, and Tricia (Joe) Oros; 15 grandchildren, Taylor, Logan, Brandon, Paige, Brittney, Bobby, Danielle, Colton, Nathan, Lauren, Joshua, Stephen, Christina, Andrew, and Matthew; two great-grandchildren, Gemma and Liam; and many cherished nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Sandra Siracki.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, January 23, 2026, at 10AM, at Our Lady of Peace, Mount Carmel Church, 1200 E. 21st Street, Ashtabula, Ohio. Entombment will follow at St. Joseph Cemetery in Ashtabula. Calling hours will be held on Thursday, January 22, 2026, from 4:00–8:00 PM at Zaback-Williams-Ducro Funeral Home, 500 W. Prospect Road, Ashtabula. Memorial contributions may be made in Sonny's name to Hospice of the Western Reserve, 1166 Lake Avenue, Ashtabula, Ohio 44004, or Northeast Ohio Autism Group, PO Box 244, Gates Mills, Ohio 44040.

The family extends their heartfelt thanks to the nurses and staff of Hospice of the Western Reserve. And especially to in-home caregivers, JoAnn Timonere and Hannah Kinney, for their compassion, kindness, and friendship they shared with Sonny and his family. Zaback-Williams-Ducro Funeral Home is honored to handle the arrangements.

Online obituary and condolences may be viewed at www.ducro.com To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Lyle, please visit our floral store.

Thanks to Vera Powell and Pyllis Russell for furnishing the above obituary!

Wednesday, January 21, 2026

Death of Charles Young



Fort LeBoeuf High School Class of 1972

Charles W. Young (Chuck), 71, of Erie, passed away the morning of September 23, 2025 at UPMC Hamot Hospital. Chuck was born March 30, 1954, to the late Charles and Faye (Sanford) Young.

Chuck married his favorite person, Susan, in 1979. Together, they owned and ran Young Electric for 45 years. During that time, they had many wonderful employees that helped run a successful business, despite Chuck’s direct orders and sarcasm. He “worked” up until his last day, telling the staff at UPMC that the lighting was done “all wrong.” He loved his family, pulling wire (even in his sleep), and Gold Rush. Sundays were for the Buffalo Bills, but just like Scott Norwood, they missed the mark on his wish of “just one before I die.” Instead, he’ll be watching from above to see if they can finally pull it off.

Chuck is survived by his loving wife of 46 years, Susan, his proudest accomplishment, Meghan (Matt) Cahill and his son, Danny (Becks) Young. He is also survived by his siblings Mel (Belinda) Young and Sandy (Doug) Meeley. Chuck wasn’t one for the mushy stuff, but he deeply cared about all of his aunts, uncles, cousins, in-laws, nieces, nephews and friends. Chuck is reunited with his parents and his brothers, Keith and Mike. He couldn’t wait to see Mike and tell him about the Bills beating the Dolphins last week.

The family would like to thank all of the ICU and 4th floor nurses, nurse practitioners and doctors at UPMC Hamot for being so kind and caring for him. In true Chuck fashion, he did not want a showing or funeral service. He wasn’t one for all the fuss. Instead, remember him with good stories, a few laughs, and for God’s sake… fix that light switch you never got to!

In honor of Chuck, donations may be made in the name of “The Cat” to the Erie Humane Society or the Anna Shelter. Arrangements by Van Matre Funeral Home, Waterford.

Thanks to Lynn Steadman for furnishing the above obituary

Thursday, January 15, 2026

Death of Rodney R. Hunt



Fort LeBoeuf High School Class of 1970

Rodney R. Hunt 74, passed away at his home in Summit Township on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, with family at his side.

He was born November 3, 1951, in Union City, one of six children. He grew up in Waterford in the 1960s. At age 12, Rodney first met his future wife, Kathy Geiger. The two went on to be homecoming king and queen at Fort LeBoeuf High School before graduating and marrying in 1970. They raised three children in Erie’s west side. Rodney often proudly told stories of his lifelong friendship with Kathy.

Rodney had a 48-year career in banking, serving multiple roles at First National Bank and PNC. In his free time, one of his favorite things to do was simply be in his beautiful backyard, which he and Kathy worked so hard to maintain.

In family life, he is remembered as an easygoing, often goofy dad who would dance like Talking Heads music videos, rent Monty Python movies and browse record shops for 1980s pop stars. He was a cheering section for choir concerts, a gifted design consultant for pinewood derbies and the vital transportation service for sports practices, paper routes and all things in between. As a grandfather, he hosted what he called “happy hours” for the kids, often featuring disco lights, music, snacks and toy car racing.

Rodney is survived by his wife, Kathy, as well as their three children, Jennifer, David and Daniel, along with a son-in-law, John Roden, a daughter-in-law, Tara Hunt, and three grandchildren, Emerson, Upton and Efron. Rodney also is survived by his sisters, Melody, June, Linda and Suzan, and his brother, Benny.

Rodney was preceded in death by his parents, Carl and Betty (Wilcox) Hunt.

Friends may call at Van Matre Funeral Home, Waterford, on Sunday, January 18, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. A prayer service will be held there Monday, January 19, at 9:15 a.m. followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 a.m. at St. Francis Xavier Church in McKean. The Rev. Ben Daghir will serve as celebrant. Entombment will follow in Calvary Cemetery, Erie.

The family would like to thank everyone with Interim HealthCare of Erie Hospice for their dedication to Rodney’s comfort through his final days.

In lieu of flowers the family suggests donations and support of research to end Parkinson’s Disease. Condolences may be sent at www.vanmatrefuneralhome.com.

Wednesday, January 14, 2026

Death of Hazel Burlingham Flook



Fort LeBoeuf High School Class of 1962

Hazel Burlingame Flook, 81, of Waterford, passed away Wednesday January 7, 2026. She was born in Waterford on October 4, 1944 a daughter of the late Wilison and Martha Martin Burlingame.

Hazel graduated from Ft. LeBoeuf High School and was a member of the Arbuckle Christian Missionary Alliance Church. She enjoyed cooking, baking, sewing, gardening, and butterflies. She especially loved spending time with her grandchildren.

In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her son, Donald Flook, Jr.

Survivors include her husband of 63 years, Donald Flook, Sr.; two daughters, Brenda Graml, of Waterford and Julie Flook, of Loveland, CO; two grandchildren, Jordan Church (C.J.) and Alex Graml; two brothers; one sister; her grandpuppies, Sage, Mica, and Wrigley; and many nieces and nephews.

Friends may call at the Russell C. Schmidt & Son Funeral Home Inc., 5000 Wattsburg Rd., on Saturday January 10th, from 11 a.m. until the time of services at 1 p.m. Burial will be private and at the convenience of the family.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Parkinson's Foundation, http://www.parkinson.org

Thanks to Marlene Meyers Kibbe for furnishing the above obituary!

Tuesday, January 13, 2026

Death of Dennis Bliley



Waterford High School Class of 1952

Dennis Roger Bliley, age 91, lifelong resident of Waterford, died Saturday, January 10, 2026 at his home surrounded by his family. He was born to Ferdinand Charles Bliley and Gladys Rose Bliley on June 4, 1934. He married Patricia Haskins on June 20, 1959 and she survives.

Dennis and Pat have owned and operated Bliley’s Mobile Home Park in Waterford since 1968. Dennis was well-known as a skilled auto technician who retired from Champion Ford of Edinboro. He was an honorary active fireman with Stancliff Hose Company in Waterford, and a former member of the Waterford Fair Board.

In addition to his wife of 66 years, Pat, he is survived by his five children - Roger Bliley (April) of Waterford, Denise Lee (Jack) of Erie, Garry Bliley (Annette) of North East, Belva Webster (Brian) of Waterford, and Brenda Mook (Kevin) of Erie; his grandchildren - Matt Bliley, Brooke Bliley, Danielle Bliley, Allison Webster, Martin Webster, Kayla Bliley, Devin Bliley, Hailey Wicker, Ethan Wicker, and Thomas Brooks; and a great-grandchild, Trent Brooks. Further survivors include his siblings- Janet Williams (Richard) of Saegertown, Richard Bliley (Ginny) of Waterford, and William Bliley (Becky) of Waterford; his aunt Norma Gorniak of Erie; and several nieces and nephews.

Dennis is preceded in death by his parents, a brother Charles Bliley, a sister Audrey Allen, and a brother-in-law Richard Allen.

Friends will be able to visit with the family at a gathering to be held at the Stancliff Hose Company in Waterford on Saturday, May 2, 2026 at 2:00 pm. Memorials may be made to Stancliff Hose Company and condolences may be shared at www.vanmatrefuneralhome.com.

Dennis’ one wish was that everyone should take time to help one another whether you know them or not. The world would be a better place.

Thanks to Marlene Myers Kibbe for furnishing the above obituary

Monday, January 12, 2026

Death of Thomas G. Lovewell, Sr.



Waterford High School Class of 1952

Thomas G. Lovewell, Sr. age 91, of Hartstown, passed away Thursday evening January 8, 2026, at UPMC Jameson, New Castle.

He was born in Erie on January 14, 1934, the son of Milton and Hazel (Millar) Lovewell.

He was a 1952 graduate of Fort LeBeuf High School and served his country in the United States Marine Corps. On June 25, 1955, Tom married the former Audrey Himrod; she survives.

He was employed as a supervisor of transportation and cafeteria supervisor at Northwestern School District for 20 years and was the owner/operator of Lovewell Meat Market. As a teenager he worked at Glenwood pony track in Erie.

Tom was a member of Woodcock United Methodist Church.

He is survived by his wife of 70 years; a daughter, Carole Strite of Mercersburg, PA; a son, John Lovewell and his wife Jamie of Greenville; a granddaughter, Rebecca; three grandsons, Brian (Krista), Johnny, and Matthew; four great grandchildren, Gavin, Maddox, Beckett, and Reagan.

He is preceded in death by his parents and a son Thomas G. Lovewell, Jr.

Family and Friends will be received on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, from 11:00 AM until the time of services in ROSE AND WAID FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY, INC., 12422 CONNEAUT LAKE RD., CONNEAUT LAKE. A Funeral Service will be held on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at 1:00 PM in the funeral home. Burial will be in McMichael’s Cemetery, Atlantic where Meadville VFW Post # 2006 will render military honors.

Memorial contributions may be made to a charity of one’s choice.

Memories can be shared at www.rosefh.com.

Thanks to Linda Lawson Grover for furnishing the above obituary

Monday, January 5, 2026

It is with sadness and deep regret I report the passing of Bryon Himrod on December 31, 2025. Bryon was a graduate of the Fort LeBoeuf High School class of 1974. At Bryon's request, no obituary will be published, no funeral service will be held, and burial will be private. His family will hold a Memorial Celebration of his life later this summer!

Monday, December 29, 2025

Death of Audrey A. Cline Kanis


(Sister of Evelyn Cline Harmon FLBHS Class of 1956)

Audrey A. Cline Kanis, 89, of Erie, passed away Tuesday, December 23, 2025. She was born in Waterford on May 4, 1936 a daughter of the late Harry and Clara Stellmach Cline.

Audrey graduated from Villa Maria College in 1954. She was a member of St. Luke Catholic Church and the Altar Society. She enjoyed traveling and camping.

In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her husband, Donald P. Kanis; one son, David Kanis; two brothers, Eugene and Robert Cline; and one sister, Marjorie Cline.

Survivors include her daughter, Marilyn Willow of Erie; three grandchildren, Cori Edwards (Jon), Daniel Willow (Rachel), and Sarah King (Daniel); eight great grandchildren, Caden, Kirsten, Alexandria, Jace, Hayden, Henley, Hollis, and Wyatt; two brothers, Harry Cline of Waterford and Melvyn Cline of Erie; one sister, Evelyn Harmon (Stanley) of Sinclairsville, NY; and many nieces and nephews.

Friends called at Russell C. Schmidt & Son Funeral Home Inc., 5000 Wattsburg Rd., on Monday December 29th from 4 p.m. until the time of services at 7 p.m. Burial will be private in Wintergreen Gorge Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to the Anna Shelter, http://www.theannashelter.com or the Alzheimer's Association, http://www.alz.org

Audrey's family would like to sincerely thank the entire staff at Lecom at Village Square and her caregiver, MaryLee, for their loving care, compassion, and friendship.

Thanks to Marlene Kibbe for furnishing the above obituary

Monday, December 29, 2025

Death of Michael S. Jenkins



Fort LeBoeuf High School Class of 1987

Michael S. Jenkins, age 57, of Waterford, died on December 19, 2025 at UPMC Hamot Hospital. Mike was born on December 4, 1968 in Erie, PA to the late John Robert Jenkins and Betty Jo Ikard Jenkins. He graduated from Fort LeBoeuf High School in 1987 and worked at the Waterford Township for over 20 years. Mike served as President of the Waterford Community Fair Board for numerous years, and he has always been very involved in his local community.

Mike got the chance to start his own farm in 2013, and he built it from the ground up with the help of his family, farming Black Angus beef cattle, pigs, chickens, and hay. Mike was extremely handy, and knew how to fix nearly every piece of machinery, from cars and trucks to tractors and haying equipment. In his spare time, he also enjoyed fishing and hunting.

Survivors include his two daughters, Samantha and Christine Jenkins. He was preceded in death by his parents, Bob and Betty, and his two older siblings, Rebecca Baum-Hull and John Jenkins.

Friends called on Tuesday, December 23rd from 2-4 pm and 6-8 pm at Van Matre Funeral Home in Waterford, PA. Funeral services were held there on Wednesday, December 24th at 11:00am and was officiated by Rev. Gary Darnell of Harmony Baptist Church, Waterford. Burial was in Waterford Cemetery. To send condolences, visit www.vanmatrefuneralhome.com.

Thanks to Marlene Kibbe for furnishing the above obituary.

Monday, December 29, 2025

Death of Denton Matheis



Fort LeBoeuf High School Class of 2001

(Oh very young, you only danced on this earth for a short while...)

Denton Matheis, age 42, of Cape Coral, Florida, walked into the arms of Jesus on November 19, 2025, at Hope Hospice in Cape Coral, Florida, surrounded by his loving family and closest friends, following a courageous two-year battle with cancer.

Denton is lovingly remembered by his devoted wife of 20 years, Jessica (Grimes) Matheis, and their dearly loved identical twin daughters, Gabriella and Emma Matheis, age 18. From the earliest days of their marriage, Denton poured his heart into his family, and cherished every moment with his girls, being the ultimate girl dad. He loved spending time with them on Disney trips, specifically riding roller coasters together, and countless other memories. He was always filled with laughter alongside his signature wit.

Born in Erie, Pennsylvania, on June 13, 1983, Denton was the beloved son of William and Lori (VanDyke) Matheis. He graduated from Ft. LeBoeuf High School and went on to receive certified training in youth ministry from Rhema Bible Training College, a calling that profoundly shaped his life and service to the Lord and those around him.

His career reflected his heart for service. He served as a youth counselor for many years, ministering to countless young lives while living in Pike, New Hampshire. Prior to moving to Florida, he worked as the purchasing and marketing manager for Simon’s Market in Littleton, NH, a role he held with integrity and dedication.

He lived to serve the Lord. He led worship alongside his wife for over 20 years, played bass, and was active on church production teams. He passionately served at Next Level Church, helping lead Bible studies, and mentoring others as a Brotherhood Freedom Leader. He found joy in helping others, echoing the words of James 1:27 by caring for widows, orphans, and all those in need.

Family and friends will remember Denton as a man of sharp wit, quick humor, and steady faith. He loved the outdoors-especially hiking the White Mountains in Northern New Hampshire with his loyal hiking brothers-and he loved his family and his Lord even more. In every season of his life, those who knew him saw the same thing: a heart anchored in joy, devotion, and the goodness of God. Denton’s life was a testament to faithful service, unwavering love, and joy found only in God’s presence.

Psalm 23 was a guiding light for him and his family, especially in the months of his illness, as they leaned on the Lord’s strength and comfort. He was also deeply supported and cared for by his mother-in-law, Lory Grimes, whose nurturing presence was a daily blessing during his illness. Denton often spoke of her unwavering love and care, which, alongside his devoted wife and daughters, sustained him in his final days. Additionally, the family expresses special thanks to the staff at Hope Hospice for their compassionate care during Denton’s final days.

In addition to his wife and daughters, Denton is survived by his parents, William and Lori (VanDyke) Matheis; in-laws, William and Lory (Foot) Grimes; sister-in-law, Jeanne Young; brother and sister-in-law, Kyle and Kristi Matheis; and niece, Kalista Matheis. He was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Edwin and UnaMae VanDyke, paternal grandmother, Carol Matheis, and uncles Joseph Matheis and Robert Lundin.

A celebration of Denton’s life was held on November 30, 2025, at Next Level Church, officiated by his dear friend and mentor, Pastor Luis Quintero. The impact of his life was evident in the nearly 200 friends, family, and community members who gathered to honor his legacy. A second gathering for family and friends will be held on Saturday, December 13th from 3:00-6:00 at Lake Erie Church, 1565 W 38th St. Erie, PA.

"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, and I have remained faithful. And now the prize awaits me—the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give me on the day of his return. And the prize is not just for me but for all who eagerly look forward to his appearing." 2 Timothy 4:7–8

Thanks to his mother, Mrs. Lori Matheis, for furnishing the above obituary

Thursday, November 6, 2025

Death of Rex Diemer



Fort LeBoeuf High School Class of 1970

Rex Diemer, 73, of Summerfield, Florida, formerly of Waterford, Pennsylvania, passed away on October 14, 2025, doing what he loved best…taking care of his yard and home.

Born on June 8, 1952, Rex was the son of Robert and Joan Diemer. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Bruce Diemer.

Rex is survived by his wife of 38 years, Annette, lovingly known to him as "This is my George." He also leaves behind his children, Heather (Bobby) Powell, Nicki (Jay) Baughman, and JC (Katie) Sallee; three grandchildren, Jakoby (Abby) Baughman, Isaac Baughman, and Kendall Powell; and two sisters, Rebecca (Bill Beston) Diemer, Meloney (Robert) Mitchell, and a brother Bobby (Amber) Diemer, and many nieces and nephews.

For 40 years, hr worked as a welder and in maintenance at General Electric in Erie, Pennsylvania, where his strong work ethic and quick wit made him well-loved by coworkers.

After retiring, he wasn't one to sit still. He took on a job as a security guard at Stonecrest in Florida, where his personality truly shined. Standing at the gate, he greeted every car with a wave and a grin, welcoming neighbors and visitors alike as if they were old friends. Everyone loved Rex at the gate, he never met a stranger, and his easy banter and kind heart made Stonecrest feel a little more like home for everyone who passed through.

Rex loved his music loud, his cars fast, and his lawn perfect. He was the life of the party, but his heart was always bigger than his mouth. Known for his quick humor and colorful stories, he had a way of making everyone feel welcome, especially if they showed up when the music was playing.

The Calling All Rodders car club in Erie was one of his greatest joys. He poured his heart and soul into his gleaming blue hot rod and his beloved Coronet, spending countless weekends polishing chrome and swapping stories with fellow car lovers. After retiring to Florida, he carried that same open-door spirit south with him. If you heard music playing from his house, you were already invited… no questions asked. The coffee was always hot, the fridge was always full, and laughter was guaranteed.

He loved his family fiercely and shaped the lives of his children through his example of strength, loyalty, and determination. He was protective, devoted, and by his own admission, a bit of a "know-it-all." He was also a loyal "Pinky" fan and a man who left a lasting impression wherever he went.

He also shared a special bond with his good friend Dean, his "vinyl buddy." The two could often be found cruising across Central Florida, reliving their younger days as they hunted for rare collector albums. Through their shared love of classic music, they developed a bond more like brothers than friends, a connection built on laughter, road trips, and the joy of discovering a forgotten tune together.

As one friend put it, "He was quite a character." Those who knew him will remember his booming voice, his generous heart, and his knack for turning an ordinary day into an adventure.

He didn't just brighten days, he made them unpredictable, loud, and full of laughter. His presence had a way of shaking things up in the best possible way. As Rob shared, Rex shaped him into the man he became during his formative years, a testament to the strength, loyalty, and deep influence he carried into every relationship he touched.

His constant companion was his beloved dog, Spencer, who shared his love of the outdoors and their daily routine. Every afternoon at one o'clock sharp, the two could be seen cruising through the neighborhood on their golf cart, Rex behind the wheel, Spencer proudly riding shotgun. It was the highlight of his day, and neighbors often smiled at the sight of the pair making their rounds, checking on friends, and soaking in the Florida sunshine together.

A celebration of his life will be held in Florida, where friends and family can gather to share memories, music, and stories-the way Rex would have wanted.

Thanks to Milo Hull for furnishing Rex's obituary.

Tuesday, October 20, 2025

Death of Joshua Swanson



Fort LeBoeuf High School Class of 1998

Joshua Swanson, age 47, of Edinboro, PA passed away Monday, September 15, 2025, at UPMC Hamot Hospital. He was born in Millcreek, September 3, 1978, to Janet Burdette and the late George Swanson.

Josh was a family man in all ways; he was happiest when he was supporting his children’s sports teams and spending time with them. From coaching Little League, to cheering on everyone, he made friends with all that he met. Josh loved the Pittsburgh Steelers and Pirates; he enjoyed hunting and spending time in nature.

In addition to his father, he is preceded in death by his grandparents, Sarah and Virgil Burdette.

Josh is survived by his partner Betty Moose, by his children Ashley Swanson (Hunter States), Joshua Swanson Jr. (Holly), Eithan Swanson, and Keegan Swanson. He is further survived by his siblings, Robert Swanson (Jamie), Melissa Seabrooke (Gregory), by his grandchildren, Allister, and Leviathan. Josh is also survived by two friends who were like parents to him, Jeffrey Moose Sr., and Laura Baker, as well as his trusty dog, Storm, all of his chickens, and many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Services were private at the convenience of the family and are entrusted to Burton Quinn Scott Cremation & Funeral Services Inc. Downtown, 602 W. 10th Street, Erie.

Thanks to Dan Caldwell for furnishing this obituary!

Wednesday, October 1, 2025

Death of Dave Pifer



Fort LeBoeuf High School Class of 1959

David “Dave” Pifer

May 26, 1941 – September 28, 2025

David “Dave” Pifer, 84, passed away peacefully on Sunday, September 28, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Dave was born in Erie, Pennsylvania, to David E. and Evelyn Pifer. He is survived by his devoted wife of 63 years, Peggy; his children Kurt (Lauren), Kristen (Toby), and Kelly (Kevin); and his beloved grandchildren Michael (Natalie), Will, Hannah, Maggie, and Fin. He is also survived by his brother Jay Pifer (Faye); sisters-in-law Joanne Holst (Marvin), Lynda Osborn, Joanne Osborn; brother-in-law Duane Osborn (Suzi); and many nieces and nephews. Dave and Peggy were high school sweethearts, crowned prom king and queen, and married on December 29, 1962. Dave earned his degree in Physical Education from Western New Mexico University and his Master’s Degree from Slippery Rock College in Pennsylvania. In 1964, they moved to Florida, where Dave built a lifelong career as a teacher and coach. He began at Johnson Junior High School in the late 1960s before moving to Palm Bay High School, where he coached football and wrestling and taught Physical Education.

Dave dedicated his summers to serving his community, running a youth recreation program with Peggy at their church for more than 25 years and managing the Fee Avenue Pool. Teaching, coaching, and mentoring young people were at the heart of his life’s work, and he inspired generations of students in Brevard County through athletics, academics, and faith.

Above all, Dave loved his family. He treasured vacations, summers off together, and cheering on his children and grandchildren in all of their activities—from sports to musicals to even pickleball matches on a cruise ship. Football was his lifelong passion, and he was especially proud to watch his grandson Michael play for the U.S. Naval Academy, rarely missing a home game.

After retiring in 2003, Dave and Peggy traveled the world, enjoying cruises and adventures with family and friends. He was blessed with a wide circle of lifelong friends who shared in his joy for travel, sports, fellowship, and service.

Dave lived a full life anchored in faith, family, and community. His presence will be deeply missed but his legacy will live on in the countless lives he touched including his kids and grandkids.

A Celebration of Life service will be held on Saturday, October 11, 2025 at 1:00pm:

First United Methodist Church of Melbourne
110 E. New Haven Ave
Melbourne, Florida 32901

Reception to follow immediately after in the Church Welcome Center.

All are welcome!