Susan (Ream) Forespring Also spelled "Foresprink" and "Fosbrink" (1843-1896?)

Draketown Cemetery Courtesy Linda Marker

Susan (Ream) Forespring was born in 1843 or 1844 in Somerset County, PA, the daughter of Thomas and Hester (Stull) Ream Jr.

As a teenager, in the late 1850s, she was united in holy wedlock with Harman/Herman Forespring (July 25, 1839-1909), son of Johann Gerhard "Garret" and Mary Catherine (Kreger) Forespring, farmers of Milford and Upper Turkeyfoot Townships who were German immigrants. 

Their family surname became Americanized to "Fosbrink." Herman is believed to have grown up in Hexebarger near Kingwood on the farm once owned by Henry and Mary "Polly" (Younkin) Minerd.

Their brood of known children included Thomas Forespring, Mary A. Foresbrink, Jane Garlitz, Sarah Catherine King, Delvina "Della" Ritenour, George Forespring, Samuel J.T. Fosbrink and John Irvin Fosbrink Sr.

Herman Fosbrink Courtesy Richard Kajma

When the federal census enumeration was made in 1860, the Foresprings made their homeplace in Lower Turkeyfoot Township, receiving their postal mail in Harnedsville. His occupation that year was as a laborer and hers' as a spinster. 

After the outbreak of the Civil War, Herman joined the Union Army and was placed in the 16th Pennsylvania Cavalry, Company G. Two of his wife's cousins also served in the 16th Cavalry during the war, Samuel Ackles Birch and George Washington Turner.

The regiment is known to have fought with distinction at the Battle of Gettysburg. At Gettysburg, the 16th Cavalry took part in action east of town, on what was known as the Deardorff Farm. The site of the fighting was along the eastern side of Highland Road, 0.4 miles south of Hanover Road. A monument and statue honoring the regiment later was erected at the location, which today is beside the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses. His name also is inscribed on the Pennsylvania Monument on the field, spelled "Foresbrink."

When the federal census enumeration was made in 1870, the family dwelled west of Normalville, a village then known as Elm, Fayette County, with his occupation listed as "domestick servant" and hers' as "keeps house." The children in their household that year included Mary A. (age 8), Sarah Catherine (2) and Delvina (5/12).

Detail of the Forespring farm site, 1872 Courtesy Atlas of Fayette County, Pennsylvania

Their farm is depicted in the 1872 Atlas of Fayette County, Pennsylvania, in the "Lint District" west of Elm.

Within a few years, they pulled up stakes and moved south across the state line. Their youngest child, John, was born in 1879 on a farm in the Clay District of Monongalia County, WV, although some in the family thought the birthplace was in Marion County, WV. 

Their marriage appears to have fractured in divorce sometime in the year between 1879 and 1880. The U.S. Census of 1880 shows Susan as divorced and heading a Lower Turkeyfoot household with children Jane and George under her roof.

Evidence suggests that Susan died on July 19, 1896, although this needs to be confirmed. The death year is inscribed on a grave marker spelled out as "Susan Ream" in the Draketown Cemetery, and may be our Susan.

Herman and his 2nd wife Courtesy Richard Kajma

Former husband Herman married again to Susanna Johnston (April 11, 1850-1919), daughter of John and Sarah "Anna" (Kemp) Johnston. They settled in Bullskin Township near Breakneck in neighboring Fayette County and produced five more children of their own -- Sophia Younkin, Emma Cora Frantz Holland, Lucinda "Sinda" Firestone Saylor Showman, Herman Fosbrink Jr. and Jane Garlitz/Garletts. Four days before Christmas 1889, he was awarded a military pension as compensation for his service. [Invalid App. #745.224 - Cert. #501.270]

On the fateful day of May 8, 1909, reported the Connellsville Daily Courier, "After working for several hours in his garden... [he] dropped dead soon after entering his home. Death was due to heart failure. Mr. Fosbrink had been in apparently good health and his sudden death came as a great shock to the members of his family and many friends." The remains were interred in Mount Olive Cemetery in Connellsville. 

His widow then began receiving the pension. [Widow App. #920.143 - Cert. #685.847] The United States Census of 1910 shows her living alone in Bullskin Township, having borne nine children. In 1913, she married again to William S. Danderson (1856-1936, son of James and Harriet Danderson and an immigrant from Lincolnshire, England. The couple made a dwelling-place near Murphy's Siding, and they were together for about five years until the separation of death. At the age of 59, on Jan. 7, 1919, she "dropped dead... at her home," said the Daily Courier. "Mrs. Danderson was apparently in her usual health and her sudden death came as a great shock to members of her family." Burial was in Mount Olive Cemetery.

Mt. Olive Cemetery Courtesy Mary Green Kerr

In some interesting twists of children from the second marriage, daughter Sophia (1887-1955) wed Phillip Younkin (1882-1960) and lived in Cloverdale in 1947, while son Herman Jr. (1885-1949) married Mamie Alice Younkin (1893-1964) and settled in Waltersburg, with both spouses being offspring of John Scott and Emma Jane (Thomas) Younkin of the family of John X. and Eliza Ann (Rose) Younkin.

~ Son Thomas Forespring ~

Son Thomas Forespring (1859- ? ) was born in about July 1859.

Nothing more about him is known.

~ Daughter Mary A. Foresbrink ~

Daughter Mary A. Foresbrink (1862- ? ) was born in about 1862.

At the age of eight, in 1870, she dwelled with his parents in what today is Normalville, Fayette County, PA. Her story after that is lost in the misty haze of the past.

~ Daughter Jane Forespring ~

Daughter Jane Forespring (1865- ? ) was born in about 1865.

At the age of 15, in 1880, she lived with her divorced mother and younger brother George in Lower Turkeyfoot.

~ Daughter Sarah Catherine (Foresbrink) King ~

Daughter Sarah Catherine Foresbrink (1868-1916) was born on Oct. 18, 1868. At the age of two, in 1870, she resided with her parents in what today is Normalville, Fayette County, PA.

On or about 1884, at the age of about 17, she entered into marriage with Jeremiah J. "Jerry" King (June 21, 1850-1935), a native of Milford Township, Somerset County, and the son of David and Eliza (Graft) King.

Together they produced a family of 10 -- Bessie Hyatt, Smith King, Lulu King, Susan Ghrist, Eliza King, Alice Rachel Basinger and four others who died young.

When the federal census enumeration was made in 1900, the Kings resided in Springfield Township, Fayette County and provided shelter for Sarah Catherine's 17-year-old half-sister Emma Fosbrink. Still in Springfield in 1910, Jeremiah and their son Smith both earned income as laborers performing odd jobs. Their last address together was in McCoys's Hollow.

After marking her 49th birthday, Sarah began to increasingly suffer from acute enlargement of the heart and then developed bronchitis. Sadly, unable to rally, she died in Connellsville on Feb. 3, 1916. On her official Pennsylvania certificate of death, her mother's maiden name was written "Sousine Johnson." Burial was in King's Farm Cemetery, known today as King Cemetery near Normalville. A news obituary said that she had "been in poor health for some time" and that she "was well known in and about Connellsville."

Jeremiah endured for another nearly two decades and relocated into Connellsville, where he earned a living as a teamster, providing general hauling. The U.S. Census of 1930 shows him heading a full household in Connellsville but having no occupation. Living under his roof that year were widowed daughter Susanna, single daughter Alice and four young grandchildren all having the surname "King."

In his final years he was burdened with senility. After having been stricken by a cerebral hemorrhage at the age of 85, he died in Connellsville on Aug. 18, 1935. Joseph Dawson was the informant for the death certificate. An obituary in the Connellsville Daily Courier said that "Interment was in the King Cemetery, near Mr. King's old home at Pleasant Hill." Officiating the funeral was his late wife's distant step-cousin, Rev. David Ewing Minerd, the famed "Blacksmith Preacher" of Fayette County.  

• Daughter Bessie King (1886-1932) was born in Nov. or on Dec. 8, 1886. She was united in matrimony circa 1906 with Marshall M. Hyatt (Oct. 8, 1886-1962), originally from Maple Summit, Fayette County and the son of Jesse C. and Elizabeth (Rugg) Hyatt. The pair planted themselves near McCoy's Spring along the Springfield Pike just east of Connellsville. Together they bore an only son, Frederick William Hyatt. In late March 1914, he and Aaron Ritenour made news in the Connellsville Daily Courier when "unloading and delivering a car of coal for the McFarland Lumber Company." Grief cascaded over the family when, at age 35, Bessie developed a strangulated hernia. She entered Connellsville State Hospital and a day later surrendered to the angel of death on May 7, 1932. Funeral services were held in the Mount Tabor Church, with burial in Mount Tabor Cemetery. The Daily Courier ran an obituary. The widowed Marshall endured for another three decades. He held a membership in the Percy Methodist Church near Uniontown. He died in Connellsville on Jan. 8, 1962, with an obituary appearing in the Daily Courier. Rev. Wendell Paull preached the funeral sermon.

  Grandson Frederick William Hyatt (1910-1977) was born in 1910. He wed a distant step-cousin, Cora Ruth Miner (1921-2003), daughter of Raymond and Rebecca (Rugg) Miner of Indian Head, Fayette County. See the Miner biography for more.

• Son Smith King (1890- ? ) was born in Feb. 1890. He married a cousin, Debbie Ann Ritenour (1900-1975). See their entry elsewhere on this page.

• Daughter Lulu King (1894- ? ) was born in May 1894.

• Daughter Susan King (1896-1939) was born in Sept. 1896 or on Sept. 12, 1897. She tied the knot with Daniel Keffer Ghrist (Nov. 24, 1897-1928), a native of Dawson, PA. He is believed to have served in the U.S. Army during World War I, assigned to Company F of the 210th Engineers. In 1920, married but living apart from her husband, she resided with her widowed father in Connellsville, with the husband's whereabouts unknown. All evidence suggests that the couple divorced, and that he went to reside in Scottdale. On the tragic evening of Jan. 14, 1928, he was horribly killed when struck by a Baltimore and Ohio Railroad shifter at the Kiefertown Crossing, losing both legs and an arm, and hurled 60 feet from the point of impact. He was rushed to Frick Memorial Hospital in Mount Pleasant and died in the wee hours of the next morning. The Connellsville Daily Courier reported the following;

  The left leg was off at the thigh, the right leg below the knee, and the left arm at the elbow. Added to this he suffered bruises and cuts about the face and body... Ghrist had been home with his mother until after 9:30 o'clock on Saturday evening and just what he might have gone to Kiefertown for is unknown. Reports that he had been cut with a knife or struck by a blunt instrument and while unconscious placed on the track were being investigated, but it was said that while there were bruises about the head and body that could indicate this. There were also many cuts across the face and body that could have been knife slashes or cuts, yet it was difficult to establish this, since these same mark could have come from the body being rolled over the road bed on the gravel.

The Daily Courier obituary did not name Susan in any way. The funeral was held in his mother's home, and at the Evangelical Church on Market Street, led by Rev. H.H. Grove. His shattered remains were laid to rest in Scottdale Cemetery. Susan was marked as widowed in the 1930 census and then took back her maiden name. In 1935, she lived in Connellsville. Sadly, at the age of 41, she died on Feb. 3, 1939. Her remains sleep for eternity in Mount Tabor Cemetery. A short notice of her passing was printed in the Daily Courier.

• Daughter Minnie "Eliza" Jane King (1898-1977) was born on St. Patrick's Day 1898 in Normalville. She was joined in wedlock with Joseph King Dawson (June 25, 1879-1949), son of Noris and Belle (Snowden) Dawson. He was divorced from Eliza's half-aunt Emma Cora Fosbrink (Aug. 7, 1882-1960) and brought these stepchildren into the second union -- Robert Norris Dawson, Harmon Dawson and Ralph Dawson. Sadly, both of the stepsons had died young, Robert in 1908 and Ralph in 1909. The Dawsons settled in Connellsville at 1 Run Avenue. They became the parents of seven offspring of their own -- Joseph "Sonny" Dawson, Harry Dawson, Madeline Wilcox, Bessie Harvey, Pearl Basinger, Dolly Miller and Grace Dawson. He earned a living as caretaker at Hill Grove Cemetery and also, for 11 years, starting circa 1938, was employed as caretaker at Chestnut Hill Cemetery in town. Toward the end of his life he suffered from hardening of the arteries and congestive heart failure. At the age of 70, Joseph was felled by a heart attack and died in their residence on Sept. 1, 1949. Rev. William C. Marquis, of the Central Methodist Church, officiated the funeral. Burial was in Chestnut Hill Cemetery. Eliza endured for another 28 years. On the fateful day of June 27, 1977, she collapsed and died suddenly in the Salt Lake City Airport in Utah. An obituary was published in the Connellsville Daily Courier., saying she was survived by 26 grandchildren and 36 great-grandchildren and two great-great grandchildren.

  Step-grandson Robert Norris Dawson (1901-1908) was born on April 27, 1901. His early years were lived in Connellsville in the family dwelling at 1 Baldwin Avenue. Sadly, at the age of six, he contracted bronchial pneumonia and died at home. His tender remains were laid to rest in Chestnut Hill Cemetery.  

  Step-grandson Harmon Dawson (1904-1960) was born on Dec. 3, 1904 in Connellsville. He married Caroline Shaw ( ? - ? ). The three offspring in this family were Robert J. Dawson, William D. Dawson and Linda Mae Dawson. They settled in Connellsville at 1728 West Crawford Avenue. Harmon was employed by the Goodwin Company. The  family belonged to the Central Methodist Church, where he held a term as president of the Methodist Men and was a member of the Fishers of Men Sunday School Class. With his health plummeting, he was admitted to Connellsville State Hospital. There, at the age of 55, he succumbed to the spectre of death on July 13, 1960. The Connellsville Daily Courier published an obituary. Rev. A.R. Mansberger presided over the funeral rites, followed by interment in Chestnut Hill Cemetery.

  Grandson Joseph Jerry "Sonny" Dawson (1924-1950) was born on Jan. 14, 1924 in Connellsville. He made his residence in 1950 at 1 Run Avenue. Sadly, while at home, suffering from malnutrition, Joseph contracted lobar pneumonia and died at the age of 26 on March 1, 1950. Rev. W.C.Marquis, of the Central Methodist Church, led the obsequies. Burial was in Chestnut Hill Cemetery.

  Grandson Harry Dawson ( ? - ? ) was in Cumberland, MD in 1949 and Connellsville in 1950.

  Granddaughter Madeline Dawson (1912-1977) was born on Aug. 23, 1912 in Connellsville. She married Edgar A. "Ted" Wilcox (Jan. 6, 1909-1967), originally from Addison, PA and the son of John and Anna (Whetstone) Wilcox. Four daughters borne by this couple were Anna Bailey, Nancy Yarnish, Paulette Sprouse and Donna Jenkins. For years, they dwelled in Connellsville at 3 Lincoln Row and were members of the First Christian Church. On Nov. 26, 1967, Edgar passed away in Connellsville State General Hospital following a lingering illness. Sadly, at the age of 64, Madeline died on May 11 1977. The Connellsville Daily Courier ran an obituary. As of 1977, of their daughters, Anna was married to Delmar Bailey and lived in Connellsville -- Nancy was wed to Jack Yarnish and a resident of Landham, MD -- Paulette was the wife of Truman Sprouse of College Park, MD -- and Donna had tied the knot with Jack Jenkins of New Carrollton, MD.

  Granddaughter Bessie Dawson ( ? - ? ) was a 1934 graduate of Connellsville High School. On July 3, 1937, in Oakland, MD, she wed Harry T. Harvey ( ? - ? ). They put down roots in Connellsville, where he earned a living for years with the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad. The Harveys on Run Avenue in the 1950s and at 119 Shultz Avenue in the 1960s and 1970s. Together they became the parents of 10 -- Harry "Paul" Harvey, Barry Harvey, Thomas Harvey, Gary Harvey, Beverly Jane Childs, Barbara Cicala, twins Bernadette Leonard and Jacqueline Petrone (1947), Grace Bernadette Harvey (1951) and Kenneth "Joseph" Harvey. At their 40th wedding anniversary, their children held a dinner party for 110 guests at Villa Nepa Restaurant. Of their large brood, Harry tied the knot with Janice Arlene Christner and were the parents of Lisa Ann Harvey (1962) and Harry Paul Harvey Jr. (1966) -- Barry served in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War and married Arlene F. McLaughlin -- Beverly Jane wed Charles Robert Childs and were the parents of Gregory Thomas Childs (1965) and Denise Charlene Childs (1968) -- Bernadette tied the knot with Harold Ray Leonard Sr. and were the parents of Harold Ray Leonard Jr. (1968) and Harry Thomas Leonard (1971) -- Jacqueline was joined in wedlock with James Michael Petrone Sr. and bore a son, James Michael Petrone Jr. (1977) -- and Joseph was a graduate of Connellsville Area High School and North Fayette Area Vocational-Technical School (1975).

  Granddaughter Pearl Dawson (1920-2008) was born on Sept. 4, 1920. She was a 1938 graduate of Connellsville High School. Pearl tied the knot with Lloyd Samuel Basinger Sr. (March 10, 1910-1990). Two known sons of this coupling were Lloyd Samuel Basinger Jr., Judith A. Davis, Richard E. Basinger and Edward J. Basinger. They lost their infant son Lloyd Jr. at the age of four days on Sept. 10, 1941. The Basingers' dwelling-place over many decades was in Connellsville. Said the Connellsville Daily Courier, "She was employed for many years by the Norstan Apparel Shop at the Connellsville Shopping Center and then as manager at the Artley Apparel Store in the Laurel Mall until their closing. Pearl served on many offices at the Old Third Ward School PTA, where all of her children were educated. Pearl was also a member of OSIA Bowling League for many years." They were members of First Christian Church. Lloyd died at the age of 79 on Jan. 4, 1990. Pearl outlived him by 18-plus years. Her final home was in Scottdale Manor Center The family was plunged into mourning at Pearl's death at the age of 87 on Aug. 31, 2008. Rev. Chris Stillwell led the rites. The remains were lowered under the sod of Chestnut Hill Cemetery. Inscribed at the bottom of their respective grave markers are the words, "Forever in our hearts." The obituary in the Daily Courier said she was survived by eight grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. As of 2008, daughter Judith was wed to Bobbie Davis and lived in Boise, ID -- son Richard (March 16, 1944-2022) was the husband of Eileen Husband (1946-2024), dwelled in Mount Pleasant, bore children Richard Basinger, John Basinger and Crissie Martin and died on June 29, 2022, with her following to the grave on Dec. 21, 2024 -- and son Edward, a Vietnam War veteran, made a residence with his bride Donita in Spokane, WA.

  Granddaughter Dolly Dawson ( ? - ? ) grew up on Baldwin Avenue and was a 1938 graduate of Connellsville High School. She then found a job in town at the G.C. Murphy Company Store on West Crawford Avenue. On July 24, 1943, she entered into marriage with Tech. Sgt. Parke Neil Miller Sr. ( ? -1965), son of Mary E. Miller, also of Baldwin Avenue. Their nuptials were conducted in the parsonage of the Central Methodist Church, by the hand of Rev. Howard W. Jamison. In announcing the happy event, the Uniontown Evening Standard said that the bride wore a "light blue crepe dress with dark blue accessories, and a corsage of red rosebuds, tied with light blue ribbon..." At the time of marriage, the groom was serving in the U.S. Army, having completed a two-year posting to Puerto Rico, and was en route to a new assignment at Brooksville Air Base in Florida. The pair are known to have lived El Paso, TX by 1949 and a year later were in Fabion, TX. Two offspring born in this brood were Parke Neil Miller Jr. (1944) and Janice Ann Miller (1950). Parke was promoted to master sergeant in 1951 while at Biggs Air Base in El Paso. By 1954, having completed 15 years in the service, he served as a flight engineer with the 4th Strategic Support Squadron and helped operate the huge C-124C "Globemasters." Their last residence was in Vacaville, CA. On the fateful day of March 12, 1965, having suffered a heart attack four days earlier, he died at the age of 44 in Travis Air Force Base Hospital. The body was shipped back to Connellsville for burial. Dolly's home in 1977 was in Clearfield, UT. Son Parke Jr., a graduate of Westminster College in Salt Lake City, married Marilyn Pierson in 1975 in Salt Lake.

  Granddaughter Mildred "Grace" Dawson (1933-2026) was born on March 12, 1933 in Connellsville. She was a 1950 graduate of Connellsville High School. She the went to work for the G.C. Murphy Company in town. On Nov. 28, 1952, at the First Christian Church, she tied the marital cord with David K. Browell (Dec. 18, 1930-2018), son of Col. Norman Browell of 214 East Apple Street. Rev. George Massay presided. Their union endured for an extraordinary 65 years together until cleaved apart by death. The groom was a 1948 Connellsville High grad and at the time of marriage was employed in Dickerson Run. The five children they produced together were Douglas K. Browell, David K. Browell Jr., Emily J. Townsend, Richard L. Browell and Robert L. Browell.  As of 1977, the Browells resided in Pittsburgh. Said an obituary, "Grace was a member of the Brightwood Christian Church (Bethel Park, PA), where she held various leadership roles during 50 years of active involvement. She was also a lifetime member of the Order of the Eastern Star. In her leisure time, Grace enjoyed ceramics and traveling." When he was 87 years of age, David died on Aug. 1, 2018. Grace passed away in Bridgeville at the age of 92 on March 9, 2026. Her remains were lowered into the sacred soil of Green Ridge Memorial Park. 

• Daughter Alice Rachel King (1907-1962) was born on Jan. 15, 1907 in Springfield Township and spent her entire life in the community. She made news in 1921 when she and her nephew Fred Hyatt escaped injured while delivering milk in Connellsville. Reported the Connellsville Daily Courier, their buggy was struck by an automobile operated by Calvin Stillwagon. The horse broke loose and fortunately was captured several minutes later by W.O. Adrian. Census evidence shows that in the 1923-1929 time period, as a single mother, she is believed to have given birth to four children -- Mary Catherine (King/Nicholson) Stewart, John Jerry King Basinger, Charles Lindbergh King Basinger and Helen Dacota (King Nicholson) Dawson Kaylor. The reputed father of these children was John Nicholson (1896-1967). Alice remained unmarried for some years and in 1930-1935 she and her children, all with the surname "King," shared a home in McCoy's Hollow with her elderly father. Then circa Feb. 1936, she exchanged vows of marriage with Ralph William Basinger Sr. (1903-1988). News of their marriage license was made public in the Connellsville Daily Courier. The Basingers lived along McCoy Road in rural Connellsville. Ralph may have adopted most or all of his wife's earlier children. The pair went on to produce more of their own -- Dorothy P. Hann, Ralph William "June" Basinger Jr., Ernest Paul Basinger, James Wayne Basinger and Nancy Basinger. Sadly, stricken with cervical cancer, Alice died at the age of 55 on June 8, 1962. Burial was in Chestnut Hill Cemetery.

  Granddaughter Mary Catherine King/Nicholson (1923-1992) was born on Nov. 9, 1923 in Connellsville, believed to have been the daughter of John Harold Nicholson. She first married (?) Phillips and as of 1950 lived at home with her mother. By 1962, she wed again to George Ruby and moved to Youngstown, OH. Later by 1967, she tied the marital cord with U.S. Navy veteran Milton Quinter Stewart (March 12, 1912-1973), a native of Redstone Township, Fayette County. Milton passed away in Youngstown on Oct. 16, 1973. Mary Catherine died in Pittsburgh on Feb. 19, 1992. The remains were brought back to Ohio to sleep in Green Haven Memorial Gardens in Canfield.

  Grandson John Jerry King Basinger (1925-1996) was born on April 24, 1925 in Fayette County and grew up in Connellsville. He was employed in young manhood with Anchor Hocking Glass Corporation. On June 1, 1947, he married co-worker Geraldine Helen Whiteman (April 11, 1926-1978), daughter of Joseph Whiteman of McKeesport. News of their marriage license was publicized in the Connellsville Daily Courier. The wedding was conducted in the First Methodist Church of South Pittsburgh Street, by the hand of Rev. Dr. W. Rufus Hofelt. The Daily Courier noted that the bride "wore a blue street length dress with white accessories and a corsage of gardenias." The newlyweds' first home was at 116 North Sixth Street on Connellsville's West Side. Sadly, Geraldine passed away at the age of 52 on Nov. 17, 1978. John lived for another 18 years. At the age of 71, he died on June 6, 1996. Interment was in Mount Olive Cemetery.

  Grandson Charles Lindbergh "Lindy" King Basinger (1927-2018) was born on Sept. 27, 1927 and named for the American aviation hero who had just been the first to fly across the Atlantic Ocean. Although possibly raised with the surname "King," he eventually took his father's name of "Basinger." Charles was joined in matrimony with Ellaweze Agnes Kerns (Nov. 14, 1923-1998), son of Richard and Dora (Eiford) Kerns. The only known child in this family was Dora Kay Hager. The pair settled in Connellsville Township, at the address of 717 Rock Ridge Road. Said an obituary, Charles "retired from Connellsville Area School District, where he was employed in the maintenance department. Previously, he worked as a truck driver, delivering freight. Lindy was a longtime and faithful member of the Mt. Olive Evangelical Church and served for many years as road supervisor in Connellsville Township. He also was a member of the Scottdale Coin Club and enjoyed gardening and raising cattle." Sadly, she surrendered to the angel of death on Aug. 22, 1998. Charles endured for another two-plus decades. He died at the age of 91 on Dec. 29, 2018. Distant step-cousin Pastor Lee Maley -- of the family of Lewis and Martha Ellen (Mayle) Mayle -- led the funeral rites. They sleep under the sod of Normalville Cemetery. Their daughter Dora Kay married (?) Hager, settled in Somerset and is the mother of Tina Stouffer.

  Granddaughter Helen Dacota King Nicholson (1929-2020) was born on April 29, 1929 in Connellsville. She may have been adopted by her stepfather and appears to have borne his surname "Basinger." She worked as a young women for Troy Laundry in Connellsville. On Jan. 5 or 15, 1949, at the age of 19, she first wed George William McNelis ( ? - ? ), stepson of Hiram L. Stutler. The nuptials were held in the Evangelical United Brethren Church of Cumberland, MD, with Rev. W.L. Hamilton officiating. The happy news was announced in the Connellsville Daily Courier, which said that the "bride wore a teal blue street length dress with black accessories. Her corsage was of yellow rosebuds." The groom was employed at the time of marriage by the Farmers Cooperative Dairy Association. The only daughter of this union was Georgia E. Dirienzo. In 1950, they dwelled on South Pittsburgh Street, with George having no occupation that year. Helen sued for divorce, and it was granted by Fayette County President Judge W. Russell Carr on Nov. 19, 1953. Later by 1962 she was joined in wedlock with Robert Dawson ( ? - ? ). She is known to have been the mother of four more children -- Catherine Sullivan, Robert Dawson, Rachelle Hughes and Candace Hudacek. They lived at 107 Pearl Street in 1968. While in Connellsville, Helen was employed by Anchor Hocking Glass Corporation and the Connellsville Daily Courier, and held a membership in Central Fellowship Church. After moving to Portsmouth, NH, said an obituary, she "was employed at The Portsmouth Herald and served as a board member of The Hillcrest Estates Association. Helen enjoyed reading a good novel, played a mean game of cards, and loved making items on her sewing machine for her home. She had a sharp wit, a wonderful sense of humor, loved watching the New England Patriots play football and also was a Steelers fan. She had a great love for animals, the outdoors; to include rides to the ocean beaches, and was an award-winning gardener." Her husband as of 2018 was Henry J. Kaylor ( ? - ? ) and they made their home in New Hampshire. Sadly, at the age of 91, Helen died in Clipper Harbor Home in Portsmouth, NH on Dec. 8, 2020.

  Granddaughter Dorothy P. Basinger (1936-2025) was born on April 17, 1936 in Connellsville and grew to womanhood on McCoy Hollow Road. In 1956, she tied the knot with Robert Hann ( ? - ? ). Together they bore two offspring -- Janice Barnhart and John Hann. The pair first planted themselves in South Connellsville. Robert was employed by Anchor Hocking Glass Corporation over the years, a position involving moves to New Jersey, Florida and Lancaster, OH. Their time in Lancaster spanned 29 years before retirement in 1988 and a relocation back to Connellsville. Once back in her hometown, she gave of her time with the Connellsville Garden Club, Connellsville Area Heritage Association, Golden Girls Bowling Team, '54 Girls and the Red Hat Society. She loved to raise flowers and share her cuttings with others. It was said that her Rosen of Sharon trees had been planted "everywhere in Connellsville" and in North Carolina and Ohio. Dorothy enjoyed singing, attending musicals at the Brownfield Community Center in Dawson and events of the Old Time Fiddlers Association and the town's gazebo. Said an obituary, "Words that have been used to describe her are joyful, happy, always positive, funny, full of life. She always lit up the room no matter where she went and she never met a stranger. She said she believed in the 3 Fs... family, friends, and fun. She always said you should find something to laugh about everyday, and she thought you should never take yourself or life too seriously." Sadness spread through the family at Dorothy's passing on Aug. 29, 2025.

  Grandson Ralph W. Basinger (1941-2004) -- nicknamed "June" or "Hump" -- was born on Aug. 7, 1941 in Connellsville. He wed Ellen Ruff ( ? - ? ). They became the parents of Lori Albright. The Connellsville Daily Courier reported that "Ralph was a member of the Connellsville Church of Christ and a self-employed contractor, having been owner and operator of Arrow Paving Fabrics." Sadly, he died in their home at the age of 62 on July 20, 2004. Pastor Tim Lively conducted the funeral service. Burial was in Green Ridge Memorial Park.

  Grandson Ernest Paul Basinger ( ? - ? ) tied the knot with Ruth. They were in Connellsville in 2004.

  Grandson James Wayne Basinger (1943-1950) was born on March 20, 1943. He grew up on McCoy Hollow Road in the rural outskirts of Connellsville. On the tragic day of July 18, 1950, the seven-year-old walked  into town to gather scraps at the trash incinerator. While there he talked with another boy, Albert Watson of Wheeler, and then turned and fell screaming to his death in the hot vault opening. Watson attempted a rescue but could not manage to save the child. Watson pulled out what the Connellsville Daily Courier called "the badly charred body... 'No Trespassing' and 'No Loafing' signs had been posted around the plant but regardless of them children entered from time to time." The cause of death was burns over his entire body. In an editorial, the Daily Courier added that "Nothing has shocked this community so much in a long while as the story of the death of eight-year-old James Wayne Basinger, fatally buried when he fell into the incinerator at the city garbage plant. All Connellsville extends its sympathy to the parents, Mr. and Mrs. Ralph Basinger." Burial was in Chestnut Hill Cemetery.

  Granddaughter Nancy Basinger ( ? - ? ) entered into matrimonial union with Joseph Colamartino ( ? -2021), son of Sergio and Edith (Olympia) Colamartino. Their union held firm over an extraordinary 66 years together. Together they bore a pair of children -- Joseph S. Colamartino Jr. and Susan K. Medvec. As of 1962, they made their dwelling-place in Joseph's hometown of Monarch, Fayette County. He was employed for 57 years by Anchor Hocking Glass Corporation in South Connellsville, a company later acquired by Crown, Cork and Seal. During his working career, he was a die setter and group leader. In his spare time he liked to fish and hunt. By 2018, they relocated to Dunbar, Fayette County. Joseph  died at the age of 85 on Nov. 20, 2021. Of their children, son Joseph married Janyce and were the parents of Hannah Doty and Mara Lynn Ricco -- and daughter Susan married Doug Medvec and bore a son, Kerry Joseph Medvec.

~ Daughter Delvina "Della" (Foresbrink) Ritenour ~

Daughter Delvina "Della" Foresbrink (1869-1950) was born on Dec. 14, 1869 in Fayette County, PA and was recorded as an infant on the 1870 United States Census. She had a third grade school education.

At the age of 17, on Feb. 3, 1887, she married 21-year-old Austin Ritenour (June 21, 1861-1937), son of Christian W. and Sarah (Miller) Ritenour. Justice of the peace A.J. Tannehill officiated. Because Delvina was underage, her father signed his consent to the union.

The Ritenours appear to have lived in the Normalville area in the 1890s and were the parents of Elmer Ritenour, Emma Cora Everly Balsley, Sadie Grimm, John Ritenour, Debbie Ann King and Mollie Rouse.

Austin made news in the Connellsville Weekly Courier gossip columns in March 1896 when a valuable horse of his died.

The couple separated in the early part of 1914, with Austin publishing a notice in the local newspaper, naming Delvina, saying she had "left my bed and board without just cause or provocation," and that he would "not be responsible for any debts of her contracting." Yet the pair never divorced but lived separately for their remaining years.

Austin was arrested for public drunkenness in December 1916, and ordered to work two days on a street crew to settle his debt to society.

In late October 1925, while riding in a truck operated by his son Elmer, delivering furniture to Middletown, PA, he was injured when the truck crashed into an approaching streetcar in Steelton. The Harrisburg Patriot-News reported that the son was "slightly injured" while Austin "was taken to the Harrisburg Hospital for treatment of severe cuts and bruises."

He lived with his married son John in 1930. Sadly, ill with influenza and bronchial pneumonia at the age of 75, Austin passed away in Connellsville on Jan. 31, 1937. Daughter Mollie Ritenour signed the death certificate. Burial was in Hill Grove Cemetery.

Delvina lived with her daughter Mollie and grandson Fred in a First Street house in Connellsville in 1930. In 1940, she rented a residence on Highland Avenue in Connellsville, and kept a boarder to generate income. Suffering from senility and heart disease, she went to live with her brother Irving on Breakneck Road in Bullskin Township.

There, death swept her away at the age of 80 on Aug. 4, 1950. Leading the funeral service was Rev. Meade M. Snyder, of the Trinity Evangelical United Brethren Church. An obituary was printed in the Cumberland (MD) Evening Times. Her remains lie in eternal repose in Mount Olive Cemetery near Connellsville. In documents related to her passing, her mother's name was given as "Susanna Johnson."

• Son Elmer Ritenour (1890-1977) was born in 1890. He never learned how to write and signed his own name with an "X." Elmer made a living as a truck driver. At the age of 25, on Oct. 23, 1915, he self-united in marriage with his first wife, 18-year-old Susan Elizabeth "Susie" Hall (Aug. 16, 1897-1947), daughter of Jacob "Josiah" and Mary Elizabeth Ellen (Ohler) Hall of Mill Run. The pair produced one known daughter, Virginia A. Slagle. Elmer and and his father were injured in an accident while riding together in late October 1925 on a trip to deliver furniture to Middletown, PA. The Harrisburg Patriot-News reported that while driving in Steelton, the vehicle "slipped from the roadway directly in front of a street car moving in the opposite direction. The truck was badly damaged and the furniture was dumped about the street, obstructing traffic for several hours." Their marriage dissolved in divorce by 1940. Elmer tied the knot a second time with Martha (1898-1961). They became the parents of Mildred Vargo. The Ritenours moved to Canton, OH by 1950 and resided in East Canton in 1958. Elmer succumbed to the spectre of death in 1977. Burial was in Canton's Forest Hill Cemetery. Ex-wife Susan took back her maiden name and made her homeplace in South Connellsville. Burdened with syphilis and a bowel obstruction at the age of 49, she passed away on Jan. 24, 1947. Interment was in Maple Summit Cemetery, with Mrs. Mary Johnson of South Connellsville signing the death certificate.

  Granddaughter Virginia A. Ritenour (1918- ? ) was born on Aug. 11, 1918. On Dec. 16, 1940, at the age of 22, she was united in wedlock with Howard R. Slagle (Dec. 11, 1919-1991). Sadly, Howard died on May 6, 1991. They sleep for the ages in Forest Hill Cemetery in Canton.

  Granddaughter Mildred Ritenour (1931-2012) was born on June 28, 1931 in Canton, OH. She was joined in matrimony with Albert Vargo ( ? -1983). Albert appears to have brought two stepchildren into the union, Sean Rupert and Tammy Rupert. From 1968 to 1980, until retirement, she was employed as an inspector by the Timken Company. Sadly, Albert died in 1983. Mildred kept company in later years with Lester "Bud" Beeson ( ? -2008). Mildred died in Aultman Hospital in Canton on April 23, 2012.

• Daughter Emma Cora Ritenour (1893-1948) was born in 1893. She may have been twice-wed. In 1908, she married her first spouse, Benjamin Everly/Everley (June 25, 1883-1925), son of Matthew and Rachel (Neff) Everly of Sutersville, PA. Children of this first marriage appear to have been Ralph Curtis Everly, Lavada/Levidia Bittner and Robert Everly. Circa 1913, they lived in Elizabeth, Forward Township, Allegheny County. They were plunged into mourning at the death of two-year-old son Ralph on March 19, 1913, from the effects of the measles and acute peritonits. The child's tender remains were placed into eternal sleep in Salem Church Cemetery. The Everlys' marriage fell apart about the same time, in or about 1915. The divorced Cora lived with her father and children in the early 1920s in Bullskin and Connellsville Townships. Circa 1922, at the age of 29, she married World War I veteran David Ralph Balsley (May 7, 1894-1934), son of William Robison and Nancy (Stafford) Balsley. The couple dwelled in Connellsville. Four children of this coupling were George Dewey Balsley, David Ralph Balsley Jr., Nellie Wood Gebe and Cary Ruth Balsley. During the war, David served in the Machine Gun Company of the 39th Infantry, with a deployment to Europe. He saw action in the Meuse-Argonne, St. Mihiel and Toul sectors. At the war's end, he was part of the occupation of Germany. He wrote to his father in the winter of 1919, saying he was glad the war was over, and that he had to "dodge shells on two fronts in France," as reported in the Connellsville Daily Courier. "Was on a certain sector in France on November 11 just as the last shell was fired. Oh, what a grand and glorious feeling. We continued on through Germany and am near the Rhine river at present. I saw a lot of nice country in my travels, mostly hills and mountains... I wish you were here watching me trying to 'sprecht' Dutch. I manage to get by, but give me the dear old States once and for always." Cora would have received a severe shock just before Christmas 1925 when 42-year-old ex-husband Benjamin, working as a brakeman for the Union Railroad, was struck and killed by a Pennsylvania Railroad train at the Maple Crossing in Clairton. An examining physician wrote that "body mangled." The family grieved when, on Jan. 5, 1927, daughter Cary Ruth died of hepatitis at the age of two. Grief again swept over the family when son Robert contracted tubercular meningitis at the age of 15 and died on May 4, 1930. When the federal census enumeration was made in 1930, the Balsleys housed their Everly and Balsley children in Connellsville, with him laboring at a coal mine. In the early 1930s, during the Great Depression, David generated income through his work on a Civilian Conservation Corps camp at Carlisle Barracks. When the CCC assignment ended in March 1934, he returned home and earned a living as a teamster for Lawrence L. Swift. He held a membership in the Walter E. Brown Post of the Veterans of Foreign Wars. Grief swept over the family when the 40-year-old David and his boss both lost their lives on Aug. 30, 1934 in a vehicular accident. While riding together in Swift's truck, they were "struck by a Pennsylvania Railroad Company passenger train at the Wheeler crossing," reported the Connellsville Daily Courier. His skull was fractured and he sustained severe internal injuries. Burial of the broken remains was in Hill Grove Cemetery. The widowed Emma made her residence in White, Fayette County. Over the tragic Fourth of July holiday in 1948, she was killed in an automobile accident, her neck broken. While a passenger in a car driven by Matthew Sanner, it "smashed into the rear of a parked auto on Route 711, near Melcroft," reported the Uniontown Morning Herald. Their " vehicle collided with a car operated by Robert Miller, Indian Head, while the latter stopped to clear a water-clogged engine. Sanner told police he was unable to see Miller's car because of the blinding downpour of rain." The funeral was led by Rev. Meade Snyder, and burial followed in Hill Grove Cemetery.

  Granddaughter Lavada/Levadia Everly (1913- ? ) was born in 1913. She was young when her parents divorced. Lavada dwelled in Connellsville in 1930, making a home with her mother and stepfather. She wed Harvey Edward Bittner ( ? - ? ). News of their marriage license was printed in the Connellsville Daily Courier. The Bittners lived in Meyersdale, PA in 1931-1935, and in Summit Township, Somerset County in 1940, with him engaged in labor on a road project for the Works Progress Administration. The U.S. Census of 1950 lists the childless couple in South Connellsville. At that time, his occupation was as an engine watcher for the railroad. She may have passed away in 1981 with interment in Green Ridge Memorial Park in Connellsville.

  Grandson Robert Everly (1915- ? ) was born in 1915. At the age of 15, he resided with his mother and stepfather in Connellsville.

  Grandson George Dewey Balsley (1918-1995) was born on March 14, 1918 in Connellsville. He stood 5 feet, 9 inches tall in young manhood and weighed 135 lbs. In 1940, when required to register for the military draft during World War II, George disclosed that he was employed by Merle Firestone of Connellsville. He relocated to Salem, OH, where he worked as a laborer. At the age of 30, on Feb. 12, 1949, in Columbiana, OH, he was united in matrimony with 36-year-old divorcee Bertha Marie (Marsilia) Jeffries ( ? - ? ), a native of Mahoning, PA, with Rev. Ray J. Hunter presiding. She was the daughter of Angelo and Christina (Yanessa) Marsilia and a potter by occupation. They are known to have dwelled in Canton, OH in 1989. He was enveloped in death on Aug. 9, 1995. His remains lie in the slumber of the ages in Green Ridge Memorial Park.

  Grandson David Ralph Balsley (1920-1984) was born in 1920. He served in the U.S. Army during World War II. Circa 1945, he entered into marriage with Barbara Marie Haggerty (1924-2008). One known son was James Howard Balsley. The family eventually moved to Ohio but appears to have returned to Fayette County. He succumbed to the spectre of death in Pittsburgh on April 10, 1984, with burial in Normalville Cemetery.  The widowed Barbara survived for another 24 years. At the age of 83, she passed into the arms of the angelic host on May 5, 2008. Interment of her remains was in New St. Joseph's Roman Catholic Cemetery in Connellsville. Son James (May 18, 1952-1978) was a 1971 graduate of Connellsville Area High School. He served as a sergeant in the U.S. Army and was stationed at Fort Benning, GA with Company C of the 43rd Engineer Battalion, 36th Engineer Group. He was married and the stepfather of Barbara Stockdall. The family avoided tragedy in March 1978 when their teenage daughter "fell more than 60 feet into Providence Canyon," reported the Columbus (GA) Ledger. While bones were broken, there were no permanent injuries. On the fateful evening of Oct. 12, 1978 at Fort Benning, David took his own life by sealing his automobile, running a hose from the exhaust and sitting inside with the motor running. He was found slumped in the car, parked on Pineview Road near 1st Division Road. The news was covered in the Ledger. His remains were transported to Missouri to lie in eternal repose in Memorial Park Cemetery in Moberly, MO. Barbara outlived her spouse by three decades and returned to Connellsville. There, she died at the age of 83 on My 5, 2008.

  Granddaughter Nellie Balsley (1920-1989) was born on May 24, 1920 in Connellsville. She first tied the marital cord with Edward Walter Wood (April 11, 1914-1952), son of George C. and Lottie (Krob) Wood. They bore two daughters, among them Nancy Caroline Gogal and Lois Jean Ansell. The Woodses divorced circa 1947, and she soonafter married Joseph V. Gebe ( ? - ? ). In 1948, in Connellsville, she pursued overdue support payments from her ex-husband, who was jailed as a result. The Gebes made their home in 1956-1971 at 304 East Washington Aveue. At the age of 69, Nellie died on Dec. 7, 1989. The Pittsburgh Press ran an obituary. Ex-husband Walter remained in Connellsville in a home at 318 Connell Avenue, generating income as a steelworker. He suffered a massive heart attack and died at the age of 38 on Dec. 3, 1952. Burial was in Hill Grove Cemetery. Of their daughters, Nancy (1938- ? ) was a 1956 graduate of Connellsville Joint High School, the last class to matriculate from Fairview Avenue High School. She married William Gogal (1938-2019), lived in the McCandless Township suburb of Pittsburgh and became the parents of Julianne Glitsch, Mary Jane Gogal, Elizabeth J. Hillig, William David Gogal and Thomas Andrew Gogal. Sadly, William died on Sept. 6, 2019, with burial in Union Dale Cemetery in Pittsburgh. -- Daughter Lois Jean (March 21, 1940-2024) appears to have lived her entire life in Connellsville and was a 1958 graduate of Connellsville High School. She was a member of St. Stephens Byzantine Church and the ladies auxiliaries of the Veterans of Foreign Wars post in Connellsville and the James E. Zundell American Legion Post of Mount Pleasant. She first wed (?) O'Wade. They raised a brood of five offspring -- Johnny O'Wade, Gregory O'Wade, Raymond O'Wade, Joseph O'Wade and Susan Yezek. Later in life, she tied the marital cord with James E. Fiano Jr. (Dec. 21, 1945-2013), a U.S. Navy veteran of the Vietnam War. Said an obituary, "Lois enjoyed cooking and baking for her family and friends. She loved baseball and the Pittsburgh Pirates and watched all the National and American Leagues. Lois also enjoyed bowling and belonged to Uncle Charlie's League and the G.L.G. League." Sadly, her second spouse died on May 14, 2013. Lois Jean passed away on Feb. 19, 2024. Her mass of Christian burial was held in the family church, led by Rev. Fr. Gerome Botsko, with interment in St. Rita Cemetery.

• Daughter Sadie Ritenour (1895-1967) was born on April 6, 1895 at Indian Creek, Fayette County and was a lifelong resident of the Connellsville area. She was twice-married. Her first spouse was a cousin, John "Ralph" Grimm Sr. (July 28, 1890-1940). son of Daniel H. and Martha (Ritenour) Grimm. (In an interesting twist, Sadie's cousin John "Irvin" Fosbrink married Ralph's sister Lena.) They were the parents of nine -- Earl W. Grimm, Austin E. Grimm, Ralph Grimm Jr., Nora Elizabeth Shipley, Evaline Johnson, William Grimm and Della Agnes Grant in addition to two who were deceased by 1967. Ralph generated income as a laborer with the Pennsylvania Department of Highways. Tragedy shook the family on April 21, 1940 when 49-year-old Ralph was gunned down in a hostile incident involving their nephew George L. Nicholson. Reported the Connellsville Daily Courier, state motor police were investigating "Sunday evening's shooting episode at Hawkins Hollow..." Nicholson was jailed and told officials that:
  
  ...he used his shotgun only after bullets fired by the dead man had whistled around his ears as he stood on the porch of his cabin home. Troopers conducting the investigation claim witnesses are insisting Nicholson had fired without provocation... Grim's daughter, Evaline, said to be about 15 years of age, had been living at Nicholson's home. Grim and a son went to the cabin to get her to return home. After the girl talked with her father and brother, she returned to the house. Then there was shooting with Nicholson being on the porch and Grim standing on the ground below. The versions of what happened differ considerably and these stories are being checked minutely by investigating officers.   
  
  Officials found that the gunshot had struck Ralph in the right side, with the shot penetrating his liver. The funeral was held in the Mount Tabor Church of God, with burial in the adjoining cemetery, and with Rev. Walter Martin officiating. Their heartache was compounded in late August 1946 when sons Earl and Austin were killed in an automobile accident in Massillon, OH. Sadie's second husband was John Morris ( ? - ? ). In 1967, the Morrises' address was at 305 North Pittsburgh Street in Connellsville. Sadly, at the age of 72, she surrendered to the angel of death in Connellsville State General Hospital on May 30, 1967. An obituary was printed in the Daily Courier. Following rites led by Rev. R.A. Nelson, interment was under the sod of Mount Tabor Cemetery.
  

  Grandson Earl W. Grimm (1920-1946) was born in 1920. He dwelled in Normalville and served in the U.S. Armed Forces during World War II. He made a move to Massillon, OH in about 1945. He obtained a job in August 1946 at the Hoover Company plant in North Canton, and convinced two brothers and a brother-in-law to apply there as well. On Aug. 29, 1946, he was instantly killed in an automobile accident in Massillon which also claimed the life of his brother Austin, who died a day later, and injured his brother  Ralph and brother-in-law Earl Shipley. He was pronounced dead on arrival at Aultman Hospital. Reported the Massillon Evening Independent, "the auto in which they were riding was struck by a truck at the intersection of the south Canton-Massillon rd. and route 62 just outside the Canton corporation limits... The truck plowed into the center of the car when the latter failed to stop at a stop sign at the intersection. It pushed the lighter vehicle approximately 40 feet before [the driver] could bring it to a stop." The brothers' bodies were transported back to Indian Head to sleep for the ages in Mount Tabor Cemetery.

  Grandson Austin E. Grimm (1922-1946) was born in 1922. He grew up in Normalville and as a young man relocated to Massillon, OH. He was critically injured with brain concussion and internal injuries in an Aug. 31, 1946 vehicular accident in Massillon which killed his brother Earl. Adding to the family grief, Austin died a day later, in Aultman Hospital, on Sept. 1, 1946. Interment was in Mount Tabor Cemetery in Indian Head.

  Grandson Ralph Grimm migrated to Massillon, OH. While riding with his two elder brothers to Hoover Corporation, to apply for a job, the 16-year-old Ralph was badly injured when their car was struck by a truck. He suffered "deep lacerations of the scalp and chin, multiple lacerations of the arms, [and] possible skull injury," reported the Massillon Evening Independent.

  Granddaughter Nora Elizabeth Grimm (1924-2021) was born on Aug. 8, 1924 in Connellsville. She wed a step-cousin, Earl Shipley (Jan. 27, 1922-1990), son of Samuel Leonard and Cora A. (Linderman) Shipley of Canton, outlined elsewhere on this page. Their union held firm over the ups and downs of 44 years together. Earl was a U.S. Army veteran of World War II. Their known offspring were Janet Louise LaFaber (1948-2017), Donna Saunier and Marvin Shipley Sr. Circa 1946, they relocated to Massillon, OH. On the fateful day of Aug. 29, 1946, Earl was badly injured in an auto accident while riding with three of his wife's brothers to apply for a  job at Hoover Corporation in North Canton. The 24-year-old received "lacerations of the scalp, punctured right ear drum, possible skull injury, lacerations of chin, abrasions of feet [and] puncture wound on left leg," said the Massillon Evening Independent. Earl fortunately recovered and lived a long life. He earned a living as a construction worker and was a member of the Massillon Baptist Temple. He also gave of his time as a volunteer fireman for Jackson Township. Their address circa 1990 was 8822 Traphagen Street Northwest in Jackson Township. Said an obituary, Nora "was a hard working homemaker who kept a spotless home that she built with her own hands alongside her husband. She was a mother to many, many children other than her own, constantly put others needs before hers, and never turned her back on anyone. Nora was a God fearing Christian woman and a member of Massillon Baptist Temple [who] enjoyed sewing, making quilts, gardening, planting flowers, cooking, painting, and playing bingo." Sadly, at the age of 68, he passed away in Cleveland Clinic on Nov. 14, 1990. Funeral obsequies were conducted by Rev. Dr. Bruce D. Cummins. Nora endured for another 31 years as a widow and remained in Massillon. She died at the age of 96 on June 2, 2021. The couple sleeps for all time in Sunset Hills Burial Park in Canton. Their daughter Janet married Gary LaFaber (1945-1982), and together in Massillon they bore a family including David LaFaber and Christine LaFaber. Janet died at the age of 69 on May 4, 2017.

  Granddaughter Evaline Grimm married (?) Johnson. Their homeplace in 1967 was in Massillon, OH. 

  Granddaughter Della Agnes Grimm (1932-1973) was born in 1932. She was joined in wedlock with John Ulysses Grant Sr. (Sept. 4, 1922-2004), son of James Morris and Viola (Schucht) Grant. He was a U.S. Army veteran of the Korean War. They established a home in Navarre, OH. The family was thrust into mourning when Della died in 1973 in Stark County. Burial was in Old Lutheran Church Cemetery in Navarre. On the face of her grave marker are the words "Love Toots." John became a companion of Erma Alice (Leading) Schmidt Dickey (1922-2004), daughter of Albert and Clara (Lerch) Leading. She brought six children into the relationship. John and Erma produced a son of their own, John Ulysses Grant Jr. They went their separate ways, and she married in February 1997 to Denver Bentley Dickey. Sadly, John died on Sept. 13, 2004. His remains sleep in honored rest in Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery.

• Son John Ritenour (1896-1958) was born on April 6, 1896 in Springfield Township and spent his entire life in the Normalville community. He had a second grade school education. In adulthood, he stood 5 feet, 5 inches tall and weighed 132 lbs., with blue eyes and brown hair. On May 15, 1916, in Cumberland, MD, John was married to Birdie Ella Butt (Aug. 11, 1900-2002) of Breakneck, Bullskin Township, the daughter of Luther and Sarah (Brooks) Butt. Together, they produced a trio of children -- Elmer Austin Ritenour, Verda Watson and Irene Richter Tissue. John was required to register for the military draft during World War I and disclosed that his employer was Henry Nickles of Connellsville. When the United States Census was made in 1920, the pair lived along Breakneck Road, and he labored as a truck driver/hauler. He turned to timber work during the 1920s and into 1930. When the federal census again was enumerated in 1940, they resided in South Connellsville and he continued to earn income as a logger. John was rendered unable to work by 1942 and is known to have suffered a compound fracture of his right arm. He had no occupation in 1950. At that time, their home was on Cherry Lane in Connellsville. Tragically, in the early hours of June 1, 1958, he was critically injured in an automobile accident near his home. With a skull fracture and lacerations of his entire face, he was rushed to Connellsville State Hospital where he died the same day. Reported the Connellsville Daily Courier, "His auto reportedly went out of control and struck a tree near St. John's School in Springfield Township. He suffered internal injuries." Rev. E.J. Hatchner officiated the funeral, with burial in Mount Olive Cemetery. Birdie endured for more than four decades. She held a membership in the Breakneck Church of God and attended the Full Gospel Church of Mount Braddock. She moved into LaFayette Manor in Uniontown in her later years. At the age of 102, she was gathered away in death in Uniontown on Dec. 19, 2002. Rev. Roger Richter preached the funeral service, with an obituary appearing in the Daily Courier. Interment was in Mount Olive.

  Grandson Elmer Austin Ritenour (1924-1983) was born on March 29, 1924. He grew up in Normalville. Little is known of his life. Elmer was a bachelor at age 26 and lived at home in 1950. He died at the age of 59 on June 24, 1983. His remains lie in eternal repose in Mount Olive Cemetery.

  Granddaughter Verda Mae Ritenour (1929-2022) was born on Aug. 4, 1929 in Connellsville. She joined the local Albright Methodist Church, Verda married Robert E. Watson (Aug. 15, 1930-2022), originally from the coal mining patch town of Helen, Fayette County and the son of John E. and Elizabeth (Taylor) Watson. Their only child was Robert D. Watson. Robert was a U.S. Army and Air Force veteran and made a living in the oil and gas industry. By 1958, they had migrated to Florida. In 2002, their home was in Deland, FL. They eventually pulled up stakes and moved again to Sugarland, TX, where their son was making his residence. Death spirited her away at the age of 93 on Aug. 22, 2022. The remains were shipped back to her native town for interment in Mount Olive Cemetery, with Rev. Steven Lamb officiating the rites. Robert only lived for another month. He passed away on Sept. 21, 2022. Their son Robert is the father of Morgan A.J. Owen, Lauren M. Watson, Robert J. Watson and Kandall D. Watson.  

  Granddaughter Irene Ritenour (1937- ? ) was born on March 3, 1937. She first wed Elwood Richter ( ? - ? ). They put down roots in Connellsville. They divorced by 1968, and after that she lived at 236 East Apple Street. On July 12, 1968, she and 43-year-old divorcee Harold Ray Tissue (May 28, 1925- ? ) motored to Winchester, VA to be made man-and-wife. Rev. Edward J. Taylor Jr., of the United Methodist Church, presided over the exchange of vows. The groom was the son of Russell and Carrie (Yauger) Tissue and at the time of marriage was a resident of Mount Braddock near Uniontown. Irene's homeplace in 2002 was in Connellsville.

• Daughter Debbie Ann Ritenour (1900-1975) was born on May 20, 1900 in Springfield Township. She moved to Connellsville and lived there as a young teenager. When she was a few days shy of her 15th birthday, on May 17, 1915, she entered into the rite of marriage with her cousin, 26-year-old truck driver Smith King (Feb. 16, 1889-1960), son of Jeremiah and Sarah (Fosbrink) King spelled out elsewhere in this biography. Records show they united themselves in marriage in Uniontown. A foursome of offspring in their brood were Mary A. Gooding, Mildred "Faye" Williamson, Francis James King and William B. King. Smith stood 5 feet, 6 inches tall and weighed 260 lbs. Census records for 1920 show the couple on Smith Alley in Connellsville, with him earning a living as a railroad brakeman. They settled in the latter half of the 1920s in Canton, OH, where in 1930 he washed bearings for a roller bearing company, likely the Timken Company. Circa the World War II era, their address was 2304 27th Street Northeast in Canton. Later he secured a job with Garux Brothers Coal Company, likely as a truck driver. The business was known for contracting, excavation and construction as well as coal operations, stripping and oil and gas wells. Their address during the World War II years was 2226 Harmon Place Northeast. They are known to have separated in the late 1940s, with Smith relocating to Massillon in 1950. Sadly, he died in Massillon after a lengthy illness on Jan. 6, 1960. An obituary was published in the Akron Beacon Journal. Interment was in Brookfield Cemetery in Massillon. Debbie outlived him by 15 years. Death spirited her away at the age  of 74 on Valentine's Day 1975. Her remains were lowered under the sod of Sunset Hills Burial Park in Canton.

  Granddaughter Mary A. King (1920- ? ) was born in about 1920 in Pennsylvania. She moved to Canton with her parents and was joined in marriage with (?) Gooding.

  Granddaughter Mildred "Faye" King (1923- ? ) was born in about 1923 in Pennsylvania. She appears to have been single and living in Canton in 1960. In time she tied the marital cord with (?) Williamson.

  Grandson Francis James King (1925- ? ) was born on Jan. 23, 1925 in Connellsville.

  Grandson William Bradley King (1936-2022) was born in about 1936 in Canton. He lived in Canton in 1960. William wed Nancy Ann ( ? - ? ). They were the parents of Roy E. King, Leonard Allen King, William King and Debbie Sue Clapper. William died in Canton on Feb. 2, 2022. 

• Daughter Mollie Ritenour (1902- ? ) was born in about 1902. Circa 1928, she gave birth to a son, Fred Ritenour. She and her son lived with her mother in Connellsville in 1930, with both women working as servants for a private family. Mollie remained unmarried in 1950 and dwelled in Canton, OH. By 1958, she entered into matrimony with (?) Rouse and made her homeplace in East Canton. She may be the same "Mollie Rouse" who died on June 30, 1961 and is buried in Canton's Hillcrest Cemetery.

  Grandson Fred Ritenour (1928- ? ) was born in about 1928.

~ Daughter Lucinda "Sinda" (Fosbrink) Firestone Showman~

Daughter Lucinda "Sinda" Fosbrink (1872-1947) was born on Sept. 24, 1872 near Breakneck in Bullskin Township. A newspaper once said that "most of her life was spent in Springfield township."

She may or may not have been the mother of Susan, born in 1890. If so, Lucinda would have been a single mother at the age of 17 or 18.

On Dec. 6, 1894, at the age of 22, she first tied the marital cord with William Willis Firestone (1872-1942), son of Michael A. and Lavina (Nicklow) Firestone. The couple united themselves in marriage in the Fayette County seat of Uniontown.

As of 1900, the pair lived on a farm in Springfield Township. The marriage dissolved in divorce.

Sometime between 1900-1910, Lucinda moved into the household of Spanish American War veteran Jacob P. Saylor (Aug. 22, 1853-1916), son of Jacob and Ann E. (Pullin) Saylor. (His name also has been given as "Gilbert J. Saylor.) The pair does not appear to have been legally wed.

In 1910, in the Saylor residence, she was described by a census-taker as "divorced" and "housekeeper." Among their near neighbors in 1910 were Lucinda's distant cousin Neri and Hannah "Lucy" (Murray) Eicher and former brother-in-law Ulysses Grant and Ada (McMillen) Firestone.

With Saylor, she bore at least two children including Lillie Mae Ohler and Gilbert J. Saylor.

Their home was along the Springfield Pike, two miles from Normalville, on the "old Jacob Sailor place." The tract contained valuable timber assets.

Sadly, burdened with liver disease, fluid retention and an enlarged heart, Jacob died at the age of 62 on May 21, 1916. His official Pennsylvania certificate of death was signed by "Susanna Forespring." His obituary in Pittsburgh newspapers reported that he had been "the oldest enlisted member of the 'Fighting Tenth' Regiment in the campaign of the Philippines... He was aged 42 when he enlisted in Company D and went to the Philippines." Interment was in Normalville Cemetery.

In July 1917, Lucinda was named in a Connellsville Daily Courier story which claimed she had been Jacob's common-law wife and was still living on the place with her children Gilbert and Lillie May at a time when the landowners were suing to sell and divide the property.

She tied the marital cord in 1921 with farmer John W. Showman (May 18, 1873-1929), son of Jeremiah W. and Melinda (Bungard) Showman of the family of David and Jane (Younkin) Showman.

He was divorced from his first wife Liddie "Ellen" Kern and brought 10 stepchildren into the mixed family -- Lila Mana Showman (born 1901), William Sylvester Showman (1902), Ida May Showman (1904), Marnie "Irene" Showman (1906), Annabell Showman (1908), Jerry "Austin" Showman (1910), Dolly Showman, James Showman, John Calvin Showman (1915) and Clarence Showman.

During the World War I years, he had earned a living hauling coal for Chick & Porter. John's first wife sued him for divorce in 1918 on grounds of "infidelity."

John suffered for many years from multiple sclerosis and Lues (syphilis). He was admitted to the Fayette County Home near Uniontown and died there on Oct. 14, 1929, at age 54, with interment in Hill Grove Cemetery. His brother James was the informant on his death certificate, and also hosted the funeral service in his residence, conducted by Rev. J.L. Kooser. The Daily Courier observed that his pallbearers all were nephews -- Playford Hawkins, Byron Harshman, Harold Hawkins, Edward Hawkins, Austin Showman and Albert Works.

Lucinda survived for another 18 years. She died in her son Gilbert's dwelling along the Springfield Pike on Sept. 6, 1947, with an obituary appearing in the Daily Courier, funeral services in the Normalville Evangelical United Brethren Church and burial in Normalville Cemetery.

• Daughter Susan (1890-1947) was born in about 1890.  Federal census records for 1910 show her at age 20 using the "Saylor" surname and living with her mother and apparent stepfather. Did she go by the name "Annie Dixon" in 1929?

• Daughter Lillie Mae Saylor (1902-1976) was born on Nov. 9, 1902 in Springfield Township. She entered into marriage with Henry B. Ohler (1896-1971). They settled in Mill Run and were the parents of Gilbert Ohler, Pearl Ruby, Jane Ohler, Edna Hall and Lucinda Stenger Warrick. In time, she moved to Connellsville. As a patient in Frick Community Hospital, she was cleaved away by the grim reaper of death on May 9, 1976. The Connellsville Daily Courier published an obituary, saying she was survived by 36 grandchildren.

  Grandson Gilbert Ohler ( ? - ? ) 

  Granddaughter Pearl Ruby ( ? - ? )

  Granddaughter Jane Ohler ( ? - ? )

  Granddaughter Edna Hall ( ? - ? )

  Granddaughter Lucinda E. Ohler (1937-2006) was born on March 2, 1937. She was twice-married, first to John Stenger ( ? -1998). In all, she was the mother of eight -- John Stenger, Steve Stenger, Randy Stenger, George Stenger, Marjorie Ritenour, Michelle Knopsnider, Renae Weimer and Jolene Stenger. Sadly, John passed away in 1998. She went on to wed her second husband, widower and World War II Army veteran John E. Warrick (Aug. 11, 1923-2005). He was the son of John C. and Bessie L. (Witt) Warrick of Rogers Mill. He was the widower of Lucinda's distant cousin, Anna Agnes (Murray) Warrick ( ? -1990), daughter of George M. and Ida (Kooser) Murray of Normalville. He thus became a father-figure to a nephew Jack Johnson and foster father to Cathy Price and Carol (Preston) Smith. Lucinda was rendered a widow for a second time at John's death in the Veterans Administration Hospital in the Oakland section of Pittsburgh on March 21, 2005. She made her final home in Normalville and died on Dec. 14, 2006. Burial was in Normalville Cemetery, with Pastor Evelyn Stillwagon presiding, and an obituary appearing in the Connellsville Daily Courier. The headcount of her survivors was 21 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren. Inscribed at the base of her red barre granite grave marker is the phrase "Before the roses bloom again."

• Son Gilbert J. "Cap" Saylor (1904-1987) was a farmer in Springfield Township in 1930, sharing a home with his widowed mother. He is thought to have been the same "Gilbert Saylor" who was pursued by law enforcement in February 1931 on charges of producing illegal "mountain moon shine." He was exonerated in Fayette County Court later that year but was required to pay court costs. Then in Jan. 1948, his name again was in the news when returning a wallet containing $75, which he had found near Pleasant Valley, to its rightful owner. Gilbert was married to a distant step-cousin, Luella Stillwagon (1912-2000), daughter of Marcellus Murray and Cleveland Etta (Adams) Stillwagon. They became the parents of Naomi Mae Miller, James K. Saylor, Ruth Ella Rich, Mary Lou Evans, Paul Saylor and a baby girl who died in 1949. He earned a living as a truck driver and is known to have lived along the Springfield Pike in 1947. They relocated for a time to Ravenna, OH (circa 1968) but eventually returned to the rural outskirts of Connellsville by 1976.

  Granddaughter Naomi Mae Saylor (1931-2018) was born on Sept. 27, 1931 in Connellsville. She wed Charles Miller Sr. ( ? - ? ). Five children of their union were Susan Miller, Paul Miller, Randall Miller, Alan Miller and Charles Miller Jr. They made a homeplace for decades in Ravenna, OH, where she worked as an attendant in a pre-school. Said an obitury, "She attended the Ravenna Assembly of God where she taught Sunday school for over forty years. Naomi enjoyed being outdoors, liked nature and loved taking walks. She was an excellent cook and baker whose memory will live on through her recipes." Sadly, she outlived three of her children, Susan, Paul and Randall. At the age of 87, she passed away in her residence on Oct. 25, 2018. Chaplain Karen Drennen led the funeral.

  Grandson James K. Saylor (1937-2012) was born on Jan. 7, 1937 in the coal mining patch town of Keisterville, Fayette County. He was a 1955 graduate of Connellsville High School and is known to have served in the U.S. Army, with a posting at Fort Meade, MD, specializing in Army intelligence. James exchanged marital vows with a distant double step-cousin, Juanita "Sis" King (Nov. 23, 1942- ? ), daughter of Clayton and Bertha Jane (Ohler) King of the families of James R. and Mary Eliza (Harbaugh) Hall. The Saylors settled in Connellsville and were the parents of Kathy DiRoma and Karen Pohodich. He was employed as a mold maker by Corning Glass in Charleroi, PA. In his free time, James liked to bowl, golf and tend his garden. On Dec. 5, 2012, at the age of 75, James was swept away in Connellsville's Sunshine Estates Personal Care Home by the harvester of death. Burial was in Normalville Cemetery, with Rev. Robert Bixel presiding, and the Connellsville Daily Courier ran an obituary. Circa 2012, daughter Kathy was married to Tony DiRoma and dwelled in Connellsville, while daughter Karen was wed to Ed Pohodich and made a homeplace in Perryopolis, Fayette County. 

  Granddaughter Ruth Ella Saylor (1939-2020) was born on Feb. 25, 1939 in Springfield Township, Fayette County. She married Donald M. Rich Sr. (1933-2011), originally from Mammoth, Westmoreland County and the son of Angelo and Mude (Hafer) Rich. He was a U.S. Army veteran of the Korean War. The Riches' union survived the ebbs and flows of a remarkable 52 years together. They made a longtime residence in Bullskin Township community near Connellsville and produced an only known son, Donald M. Rich Jr. Donald Sr. earned a living as a crane operator at the Edgar Thomson Works of United States Steel Corporation. In his spare time, said the Connellsville Daily Courier, he was an avid golfer and played in the Kings' Mountain Golf League. They also were members of the Calvary Assembly of God Church in Connellsville. They grieved at the death of their son Donald Jr. Donald Sr. passed away in their Bullskin Township residence on Feb. 19, 2011. Funeral obsequies were conducted in the family church, by the hand of Rev. Matthew Goldsberry. Ruth was enveloped by death in Dunbar Township at the age of 81 on March 8, 2020. Interment was in Green Ridge Memorial Park.

  Granddaughter Mary Lou Saylor (1941-2014) was born on Feb. 10, 1941 in Connellsville. She exchanged vows of marriage with Richard Gerald "Bud" Evans (1938-1999). Together they bore two offspring -- John G. Evans and Carol Ann McManus. They made a homeplace in South Connellsville and held a membership in the Calvary Assembly of God Church. The Greensburg Tribune-Review said that she "had 19 years of service with Anchor Hocking Glass as a selector. Mary Lou was a member of Connellsville Senior Citizens Center. She was also a member of Connellsville Hospital Auxiliary and enjoyed meeting with her friends for lunch and entertainment every month." At the age of 73, she passed away in the home of a granddaughter in Proctor, WV on Oct. 12, 2014. Rev. Matthew Goldsberry oversaw the funeral service. Burial was in the sacred soil of Normalville Cemetery. Both of their adult children resided in South Connellsville in 2014.

  Grandson Paul Saylor ( ? - ? ) tied the knot with Audrey. In 2012, their home was in Ohio.

  Grandson Frank Saylor ( ? - ?) married Mary. They settled on Rock Ridge Road in Connellsville.

  Grandson John Saylor ( ? - ? ) planted himself just over the county line in Scullton, Somerset County.

~ Son George Forespring ~

Son George Forespring (1876- ? ) was born in 1876. His earliest years were spent in Lower Turkeyfoot Township. He last was known at age four to be living under his divorced mother's roof in 1880.

~ Son Samuel J.T. Fosbrink ~

Samuel Fosbrink Courtesy Richard Kajma

Son Samuel J.T. Fosbrink (1876-1963) was born on May 23, 1876, possibly in Meyersdale, Somerset County.

Two days before Christmas 1900, when he was 24 years of age, he exchanged vows of marriage with 16-year-old Bertha Butt (1885-1951), a native of Bullskin Township and the daughter of Luther and Sarah Elizabeth (Brooks) Butt. Justice of the peace J.H. Halfhill officiated the wedding, held in Moyer, Fayette County.

The pair's known children were Willie Fosbrink, Sarah Elizabeth Thomas and Susana Fosbrink.

The Fosbrinks home in 1910 was in Bullskin Township, with Samuel generating income as a teamster.

Grief cascaded over the family at the death of daughter Susana at 11 days of age on March 26, 1911, from the effects of convulsions. Her tender remains were interred in Mount Olive Cemetery.

They relocated to the Dunlap coal works in Redstone Township during the 1910s, where in 1918 he toiled for W.J. Rainey Company. The family remained there in 1920. In 1929, they relocated to a farm in Friendsville, MD and stayed for the final 22 years of their lives together. The family were members of St. John's Lutheran Church.

Sadly, Bertha died at home at the age of 66 on Nov. 28, 1951. The Connellsville Daily Courier said that the cause was "an extended illness." Funeral rites were conducted in the Breakneck Church of God, led by Rev. Jeffries of Markleysburg.

Samuel survived for another dozen years. Death enveloped him at the age of 87, in Garrett County Memorial Hospital, on July 23, 1963. Rev. David Fetter led the funeral obsequies. His remains were lowered into the sacred soil of Mount Olive Cemetery in Connellsville, with the Courier  and the Cumberland (MD) News both running an obituary.

• Son Willie Fosbrink (1903- ? )

• Daughter Sarah Elizabeth Fosbrink (1908-1989) was born on May 1, 1908 in Bullskin Township. Midwife Susannah Fosbrink assisted in the delivery. She wed George Kenneth Thomas (1899-1980). They were the parents of eight children, among them Samuel Eugene Thomas, Burgett Wayne Thomas, Doris Jeannine Thomas, Richard C. Thomas, Jackie Theodore Thomas, Shirley Ann Fisher, Robert Kenneth Thomas and Darlene Joyce Sisler. They first lived in Friendsville, Garrett County, MD and during the World War II years, they moved to Pittsburgh. Later they returned to Friendsville for good. She was gathered away in the harvest of death in Friendsville, at the age of 81, on Dec. 3, 1989. Burial was in the local Sand Spring Cemetery.

  Grandson Samuel Eugene Thomas (1926-1975) was born on Aug. 21, 1926 in either Somerset County, PA or in Garrett County, MD. He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II. Samuel married Lois Winnafred VanSickle (June 2, 1929-2022), originally from Hazelton, Preston County WV and the daughter of Quinter and Mary (Welch) VanSickle. Their two sons were Rodney E. "Butch" Thomas and Gerald W. Thomas. Samuel was a member of the Garrett County School Bus Association, Independent Businessman's Association of Baltimore, the Garrett County Farm Bureau and Friendsville Camp of the Woodmen of the World. On the tragic day of April 24, 1975, the 50-year-old was burned to death in a freak accident while driving a truck on Liberty Street in Oakland. Said the Cumberland News, "A fuel storage tank explosion-fire... claimed the life of a Friendsville man and critically burned another resident of the community ... caused by gasoline leaking from the tank onto the hot muffler of a flat bed truck which was hauling the large tank... The storage tank... had been loaded onto the truck at a storage area about a mile from where the explosion occurred. It was a used tank and had been taken out of the ground and drained last fall... The fill cap had been placed back on the tank before it was loaded onto the truck." The funeral was conducted in the Sand Spring Church of God, jointly led by Rev. Vernon Witt and Rev. Jack Gray. The charred remains were placed into the sleep of the ages in Thomas Cemetery in Markleysburg. Lois outlived her husband by 47 years and remained in Friendsville. She passed away in UPMC Western Maryland Hospital in Cumberland, at the age of 93, on July 31, 2022. She was survived by four grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Her pastor, Rev. Dana Umbel, led the funeral rites. Son Rodney married Lois and has lived in Painesville and Perry, OH while son Gerald wed Linda and stayed put in Friendsville.

  Grandson Burgett Wayne Thomas (1928-2005) was born on Jan. 26, 1928. He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II, and may have enlisted or re-enlisted in 1946. He was united in matrimony with Margaret M. (1928- ? ). In 1958, evidence suggests that he was a bus driver for the new Route 40 School east of Grantsville, employed by the Garrett County Board of Education. Sadly, at the age of 77, Burget died on March 12, 2005. Interment of the remains was in Sand Spring Cemetery.

  Granddaughter Doris Jeannine Thomas (1929-1937) was born in 1929. She did not survive childhood. She died at the age of about eight in 1937. The cause of her untimely passing is not yet known. Her tender remains lie in eternal repose in Sand Spring Cemetery in Friendsville.

  Grandson Richard Charles "Rit" Thomas (1933-2006) was born on May 5, 1933 in Friendsville. He was joined in wedlock with Delores L. Wilson (1936- ? ). The five daughters they bore together were Georgia Yoder, Becky Miller, Bonnie Artice, Brenda King and Michele Carl. Richard and several of his brothers earned a living as school bus drivers for the Garrett County Board of Education. He also was a dairy farmer. They belonged to the Gospel Center Church of Markleysburg, PA, and he was a member of the Friendsville Lions Club.  Inscribed on the face of their grave marker are the words, "Life is a rainbow of beautiful memories." Grief cascaded over the family at Richard's death in Monongalia General Hospital in Morgantown, WV on July 2, 2006. Funeral services were held in the Gospel Center Church, by the hand of Rev. Martin Stewart. Burial was in Sand Spring Cemetery. Circa 2006, daughters Georgia was married to Michael Yoder and lived in Friendsville -- Becky was the wife of Roy Miller and dwelled in Friendsville -- Bonnie was wed to Tony Artice and resided in Confluence, PA -- Brenda had exchanged marital vows with Steven King and kept their homeplace in Mill Run -- and Michele was in Youngwood, PA.

  Grandson Jackie Theodore Thomas (1935-2004) was born on Aug. 12, 1935 in Fearer, the name of the Sand Spring community in Garrett County, MD, just west of Friendsville near the West Virginia state line. He and Mary Katherine Boden (1938- ? ) were brought together on May 25, 1957 in the bond of marriage. The couple put down roots in Friendsville with an address of 284 Humberson Road. Six children were born into this family -- Mary Jane Thomas, Jack Lynn Thomas, Jeffrey Robert Thomas, Melvin Lynn Michaels, Denise Rena Trump and Kimberly Sue Friend. They grieved at the death of daughter Mary Jane at birth on Dec. 10, 1959. Jackie was the longtime owner of Thomas Used Cars. Sadly, he died in their residence at the age of 68 on Jan. 5, 2004. Pastor Joe Brown officiated the funeral, at the Sand Spring Church of God, followed by burial in the local Sand Spring Cemetery. The headcount of his survivors was seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. As of 2004, their children Jack was married to Tammy and lived in Friendsville -- Jeffrey was married to Sandra and dwelled in Friendsville -- Melvin and his bride Kelly had moved to Spartanburg, SC -- Denise was the wife of James Trump and kept their homeplace in Kecksburg, PA -- and Kimberly Sue was wed to Ronald Friend and shared their residence in Mill Run, PA.

  Granddaughter Shirley Ann Thomas (1940-2018) was born on Oct. 12, 1940 in Friendsville, MD. She tied the knot with Roland Robert "Pete" Fisher Sr. (1938-2025). Together, they produced a trio of offspring -- Roland Robert Fisher Jr, George Fisher and Jeannine Snodgrass. Their homeplace in 1975 was in Addison, Somerset County, PA, and their final residence was in Smithfield, Fayette County, PA. An obituary said that Shirley "was co-owner of Addison Farm and Industrial Equipment, Addison, Pa. and former owner of Topos Restaurant, Markleysburg, Pa. She was a member of the Sand Spring Church of God." Sadly, Shirley was cleaved away by the grim reaper of death at age 78 on Nov. 22, 2018. Interment was in Sand Spring Cemetery in Friendsville, with Rev. Dana Umbel conducting the funeral service in the family church. Roland Sr. outlived her by seven years. He died in Addison on Nov. 9, 2025. Son Roland Jr. (March 11, 1959-2008) was divorced from Nancy and was the father of Roland Robert Fisher III and Samuel Fisher. He lived in Friendsville and managed Addison Farm & Industrial Supply Company. Death claimed his soul in an automobile accident near Bruceton Mills at the age of 48 on Leap Day 2008. Of the Fishers' two surviving children, circa 2018, George lived in Markleysburg, while Jeannine dwelled in Reading, PA. 

  Grandson Robert "Kenneth" Thomas (1941-2026) was born on Sept. 9, 1941 in Uniontown, PA. He wed Carol L. Fisher ( ? - ? ). The couple planted themselves in Friendsville. They produced three children -- Michael Thomas, Crystal Rosenberger and April Folk. Said an obituary, Kenneth "worked as a deliveryman for Mel’s Truck Parts. He also worked at Green Acres Contracting, Scottdale, PA, Spector Freight System, Cleveland, OH and on the Thomas Family Farm. He enjoyed golf, fishing, and Maryland Terrapins Football, having been a season ticket holder for 42 years." They held a membership in the Oakland Church of Christ. With his health in decline, Robert was admitted to Ruby Memorial Hospital at West Virginia University. He died there at the age of 84 on June 11, 2026. Rev. Kevin Maul officiated the obsequies, with interment following in Sand Spring Cemetery. As of 2026, of their children, Michael was married to Jana, Crystal may have been single and April was wed to David Folk.

  Granddaughter Darlene Joyce Thomas (1944-1993) was born five days before Christmas 1944 in Uniontown, PA. She entered into marriage with Paul "Douglas" Sisler (Nov. 1, 1945-2022), son of Paul and Ruth Ellen (Friend) Sisler. Their longtime residence was in Friendsville. The trio of children they bore together were Douglas Paul Sisler, Christopher Todd Sisler and Patricia Ann Morris. Mourning swept through the family when, at age 48, Darlene died in Friendsville on March 3, 1993. Burial was in the local Blooming Rose Church Cemetery. Douglas outlived his wife by nearly three decades. During that time he was a companion of Joan Reeves. An obituary noted that Douglas "was a self-employed contractor, truck driver and entrepreneur in billboard advertising. Doug enjoyed farming and restoring his family farm." At the age of 76, he died in Markleysburg on Oct. 31, 2022. He was laid to rest at the side of his bride. He was survived by nine grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. Son Douglas Paul at the age of 38 passed away in Morgantown, WV on Nov. 11, 2002. As of 2022, their children Christopher was wed to Bridget and had settled in New Holland, PA -- while Patricia Ann had tied the knot with Joel Morris and migrated to New Smyrna Beach, FL.

  ~ Son John "Irvin" Fosbrink ~

Irvin and Lena Fosbrink Courtesy Richard Kajma

Son John "Irvin" Fosbrink (1879-1956) was born on Aug. 15, 1879 in the Clay District of Monongalia County, WV, although some in the family thought the birthplace was in Marion County, WV. A record of his birth was inscribed in the Monongalia County records.

He apparently grew up in Normalville, Fayette County.

Then at the age of 21, on Oct. 18, 1900, he wed 17-year-old widow Mary Magdalena "Lena" (Grimm) Linderman (May 13, 1884-1953), a native of Moyer, PA and the daughter of Daniel H. and Martha (Ritenour) Grimm and a resident of Springfield Township. The wedding was held in Normalville, by the hand of justice of the peace A.G.C. Sherbondy. (In an interesting twist, Irvin's brother John "Ralph" Grimm wed Lena's cousin Sadie Ritenour.)

Lena had lost her first husband David Linderman (1876-1900) on Jan. 11, 1900, and she brought a stepdaughter into the union, Cora (Linderman) Shipley.

Together, the Fosbrinks bore a dozen more children of their own -- Susanna Fosbrink, Rosalie "Rose" Hillen Babb, Charles H. Fosbrink, Harry Stanton Fosbrink, Daniel Jacob Fosbrink, Gertrude Fosbrink, Samuel Clinton Fosbrink, Martha Corie Fosbrink, Mabel Lillian Goodwin, John Irvin Fosbrink Jr., Edith "Beatrice" Skelton and Donald Richard Fosbrink. Irvin appears to have recorded each child's birth in the family Bible.

They endured the heartbreak of the deaths of seven of the children -- Susanna on Sept. 1, 1902 at the age of 11 months (with burial at King Cemetery), Charles (1958), Harry at war in Luxembourg in 1945, Gertrude (Feb. 2, 1913, of pneumonia), Samuel (June 21, 1923, drowning), Martha (Sept. 7, 1916, of cholera) and Mabel (Feb. 28, 1949, heart attack).

Lena, Irvin and their pet dog Courtesy Richard Kajma

Their home in 1907, at the birth of their son Harry, was in Leisenring. Census records for 1910 show them in Redstone Township, possibly at the Herbert works, with him laboring as a fireman in the coal shaft. Their next-door neighbors that year were Irvin's married younger half-sister Sophia and her husband Phillip Younkin of the family of John X. and Eliza Ann (Rose) Younkin.

He was required to register for the military draft in 1918 during World War I and disclosed that his employer was W.J. Rainey and his occupation as fireman. By 1920, the family moved to Melcroft, Fayette County, with him continuing to toil as a coal miner. Circa 1923, they were back at the Herbert coal and coke works and by 1930 had migrated to Saltlick Township where he found work at another mine. They moved to their final home in Breakneck, Bullskin Township in about 1936.

Census records for 1940 list Irvin as a laborer for the Works Progress Administration. Said the Connellsville Daily Courier, Irvin "lived most of his life in the Breakneck community. Mr. Fosbrink was a member of the Breakneck Church of God."

Grief blanketed the family when Lena died on April 30, 1953, following what a newspaper called "an illness of five years." Irvin survived his wife by three years. Sadly, at the age of 76, he died in Connellsville State Hospital on April 13, 1956. Rev. Dr. G. Marion Smith officiated the funeral held at the Breakneck Church of God. Burial was in Fairview Cemetery in Percy near Uniontown. The headcount of his survivors included 30 grandchildren and 32 great-grandchildren.

• Stepdaughter Cora Linderman (1900-1957) was born in 1900. She wed Samuel Leonard Shipley (1894-1968), originally from Mill Run, Fayette County, and the son of Levi and Catherine Margaret (Bowers) Shipley. Seven children of this coupling were Melvin W. Shipley, Bertha May Shipley, Daisy Ruth Briggs, Gilbert Merle Shipley, Pearl Shipley, Earl Shipley and Sylvia Buck. Two of the children died young -- Bertha in infancy in 1917 and Pearl in 1923. They relocated to Canton, OH by 1949 followed by a relocation to Massillon, OH, where he found employment with Republic Steel Corporation. They lived at 3441 Lincoln Way East and belonged to the Massillon Baptist Temple. Sadly, at the age of 58, she died in Orrville Osteopathic Hospital on Nov. 16, 1957. Her pastor, Rev. Bruce Cummons, officiated the funeral service, with interment in Sunset Hills Burial Park near Lake Cable. An obituary in the Massillon Independent said that the headcount of her survivors was a baker's dozen grandchildren. Samuel lived for another 11 years, and toward the end moved into the Erie Hotel. Death enveloped him in Massillon City Hospital on June 8, 1968. His obituary reported that he "had been in ill health for some time." Rev. Dr. Bruce D. Cummons, of the family church, presided over the rites.

  Step-grandson Melvin Willard Shipley (1915-1989) settled in Canton, OH and was there in 1968.

  Step-granddaughter Daisy Ruth Shipley (1918-2002) was born on April 18, 1918 in Scottdale. She married John Thomas Briggs (1898-1958). The groom was 20 years older than the bride. He brought these stepchildren into the second union -- Marion Thomas Briggs, Jack Eugene Briggs, Joan Mae Bartell, Jean Anne Stewart and Richard Dale Briggs. Daisy and John went on to bear two more offspring of their own -- Marlene Faye Kelly (1940-1994) and Merle David Briggs (March 1, 1940-2006). In 1968, she was in Perry Heights, OH and in the early 2000s in Massillon, OH. She was employed over the years at Massillon State Hospital and as a crane operator for Republic Steel Corporation. Death enveloped her in Meadow Wind Health Care at the age of 84 on June 4, 2002. Rev. Raymond Tucker led the funeral service, with burial in Sunset Hills Burial Park. Son Merle apparently did not marry or reproduce. He died in Canton on Nov. 2, 2006.

  Step-Grandson Gilbert Merle Shipley (1920-1981) dwelled in 1957-1968 in Canton, OH.

  Step-Grandson Earl Shipley (1922-1990) put down roots in Massillon, OH, making his homeplace there in 1968.

  Step-granddaughter Sylvia L. Shipley (1924-1986) wed (?) Buck and resided in Massillon, OH in 1957-1968.

• Rose and (?) - courtesy Richard Kajma

  Daughter Rosalie "Rose" Fosbrink (1903-1967) was born on Feb. 22, 1903 in Fayette County. She first married Howard Hillen (1898-1950). The five children they bore together were John Clinton Hillen, Samuel J. Hillen, L. Gertrude Donaldson, Rosemary Hensel and Lillian May Showman. They also raised a foster son, Robert Peck. The Hillens dwelled in the coal and coke town of Herbert, Redstone Township, in the mid-1920s. Grief cascaded over the family at the death of son John Clinton from tubercular meningitis at the age of eight on Aug. 24, 1925. An obituary in the Uniontown Morning Herald reported that burial was in the Percy Methodist Protestant Cemetery, led by Rev. Van Eman of the Hopewell Church. Their homeplace in 1949 was in Indian Head, Fayette County, where they attended the Indian Head Church of God. Sadly, Howard passed away on Oct. 12, 1950. As a widow, she relocated to Ohio in 1951. Later she wed George Babb (1905-1972). He brought four stepchildren into the mied family -- Thomas Babb, Robert Babb, Roy Babb and Helen Bowman. In 1956, the Babbses dwelled in Lorain, OH. Their final home in the 1960s was in Wakeman, OH. She died at the age of 64, in Wakeman, on May 7, 1967. Her remains were transported back to her native region for funeral services in the Breakneck Church of God, led by Rev. Dr. G. Marion Smith, and thence to sleep under the sod of Mount Olive Cemetery. An obituary in the Connellsville Daily Courier said that she was survived by 34 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

  Grandson Samuel J. Hillen (1923-1979) settled in Vermillion, OH.

  Granddaughter L. Gertrude "Sis" Hillen (1925-1978) married Edward Donaldson. The couple was in Mill Run in 1967. 

  Granddaughter Rosemary Hillen (1926-2015) was born on Nov. 22, 1926 in Redstone Township, Fayette County. She was a 1944 graduate of Connellsville High School. Rosemary wed James Hensel ( ? -1995). They made their dwelling-place for decades in Indian Head and raised a family of three daughters -- Dollie M. "Dottie" Ohler, R. Jean Pelliccione and Chcki Ruth Ryan. Rosemary earned a living as office manager for Seven Springs Mountain Resort, the popular skiiing attraction in Somerset County. She also was a notary public and gave of her time with the Girl Scouts and ladies auxiliary of the Saltlick Township Firemen and held a membership in the Indian Head Church of God. Sadly, Rosemary died at the age of 88 in their residence on March 12, 2015. Rev. Doug Nolt led the funeral, with burial in Mount Olive Cemetery. Of their trio of daughters, all of whom have lived in Indian Head, Dollie married John C. Ohler -- R. Jean wed Charles L. Pelliccione Jr. -- and Chicki Ruth married (?) Ryan.

  Granddaughter Lillian May Hillen (1934-2011) was born on June 1, 1934 in Indian Head. She tied the knot with Kenneth Showman ( ? - ? ). Their union survived the highs and lows of an extraordinary six decades together. The newlyweds immediately moved in about 1951 to Wakeman, OH and stayed for good, over the span of 60 years. The large brood they bore together were Charles Showman, Cynthia Myers, Deborah Fisher, Beatrice Knott, Connie Stanley, Kenneth Showman, Walter Showman, Donald Showman and Jeffrey Showman Said an obituary, Lillian "worked at Kathy's Kitchen, Vermilion, Green Circle Growers and Welch's Fruit Farm. She enjoyed playing cards, gardening, the outdoors, family gatherings and pets." She died in EMH Regional Health Center at the age of 76 on May 11, 2011. Rev. Richard Kretchmar officiated the obsequies, and burial followed in Cable Cemetery. Of their children, Charles was deceased by 2015 -- Cynthia married Wayne Myers and settled in Oberlin -- Deborah tied the knot with John Fisher and moved to Amherst, OH -- Beatrice wed (?) Knott and put down roots in Wakeman --Connie was joined in wedlock with (?) Stanley and moved to Cleveland -- Kenneth relocated to Conway SC -- Walter has lived in Wakeman -- Donald Showman has dwelled in Vermilion, OH -- and Jeffrey was united in matrimony with Denise and in 2015 were in Berlin Heights, OH.

  Foster-grandson Robert Peck migrated to Lorain, OH.

  Step-grandson Thomas Babb also relocated to Lorain, OH.

  Step-grandson Robert Babb made his residence in Lorain, OH in 1967.

  Step-grandson Roy "Buck" Babb joined the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War. In 1967, he was stationed in Massachusetts. He married Judy and settled in Anderson, IN.

  Step-Granddaughter Helen Babb entered into marriage with Edward Bowman. They moved cross-country to California.

• Ruth and Charles Fosbrink Courtesy Richard Kajma

  Son Charles H. Fosbrink (1905-1958) was born on June 1, 1905 in Normalville, Fayette County. He married Ruth Pearl Snyder (1907-1993). They lived in Indian Head in rural Saltlick Township for 33 years, from about 1925 to 1958. He "was a farmer and had been employed at the H.M. Hughes estate, Little Back Creek Farm," said the Connellsville Daily Courier. "He was a member of the Indian Head Church of God." Known children in their brood were Charles H. "Fuzzy" Fosbrink Jr., Clair B. Fosbrink, Gladys Evans, Edith Zarycki and Faye Johnston. Sadly, at the age of 53, while visiting at the home of his brother-in-law James Snyder, he suffered a massive heart attack and died instantly on June 11, 1958. Interment was in Mount Nebo Cemetery, following funeral rites led by Rev. Dr. G. Marion Smith, with an obituary appearing in the Connellsville Daily Courier. Survivors included 11 grandchildren.

  Grandson Charles H. "Fuzzy" Fosbrink Jr. (1927-2009) was born on May 5, 1927 in Indian Head. He grew up in Indian Head and in 1945, he joined the U.S. Navy during World War II, serving aboard the USS Wisconsin. He also was a volunteer fireman for the Ohiopyle Fire Department. Then after the war's end, on July 1948, at the age of 21, he overloaded a truck he was driving which caused some sort of damage which led to a brief jail term. Charles wed Charlotte E. Corristan ( ? - ? ). Their union held firm over a remarkable 59 years together. Four children among their offspring were Charles R. Fosbrink, Barbara Luttrell, Sally Whited and Clay Fosbrink. They moved to Akron, OH by 1958 and remained there for many years. He was a longtime truck driver for Consolidated Freightways. He is known to have moved to Georgia in 2006. He died in New London Health Center of Snellville, GA at the age of 82 on July 10, 2009. An obituary in the Akron Beacon Journal said he was survived by nine grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. The remains were brought back to his native Fayette County to rest for all time in Mount Nebo Cemetery, with Rev. Tim Beatty presiding.

  Grandson Clair B. "Jeep" Fosbrink (1929-2008) was born on Aug. 2, 1929 in Canton. He served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. In or about Sept. 1950, he was wounded in action, with his name appearing on a casualty list in the Pittsburgh Press and the Philadelphia Inquirer. For this sacrifice, he received a Purple Heart. After the war, he settled in Alexandria, VA. Clair married Audra Frye ( ? - ? ). He was the father of Tracy Seel, Vicki Bohall and Micki Feterhoff. A subsequent move was to Mars, Butler County, PA. There, he was employed by Halstead Industries, Budget Gourmet and as a courier for Mars National Bank. They belonged to the Mars Alliance Church. Death spirited him away at home at the age of 78 on April 6, 2008. His obituary appeared in the Valley News Dispatch. Of their trio of daughters, Tracy married Daniel Seel and was deceased by 2008, with him remaining in Shaler Township -- Vicki wed Rev. Gerald Bohall and resided in Chesterfield, VA -- and Micki tied the marital cord with David Fetterhoff and settled in Mars.

  Granddaughter Gladys Fosbrink (1932-2007) was born on Jan. 25, 1932 in Champion, Fayette County. She was a 1950 graduate of Connellsville High School. Gladys entered into marriage with James Eugene Evans ( ? -1988). Six offspring born into this family were Connie Jean Evans, Robert Evans, James Lee Evans, Douglas Evans, Tanya Sue Evans and John J. Evans. They put down roots in Connellsville. In time she moved to Melcroft. As a patient in Excela Health Frick Hospital in Mount Pleasant, she passed away at the age of 75 on Nov. 4, 2007. An obituary was printed in the Connellsville Daily Courier. Of their children, Connie Jean was deceased by 2007 -- Robert wed Leann and planted themselves in Connellsville -- James Lee wed Shirley and migrated to Sioux Falls, SD -- Douglas has made his homeplace in Melcroft -- Tanya Sue moved to Dunbar and John relocated to Palm Bay, FL.

  Granddaughter Edith Fosbrink (1934-2012) was born in 1934. She was united in matrimony with Stanley Zarycki ( ? -2004). The pair relocated by 1958 to Cleveland, OH, settling in the suburb of Parma. Four children of this couple were Stan Alan Zarycki, Dennis Zarycki, Jann Bonness and David Zarycki. Said an obituary, "Edith was a longtime active parishioner at St. Charles Borromeo Church in Parma and worked for many years at St. John Bosco Church in Parma Hts." Stanley passed into the heavenly host in Aug. 2004. Edith lived on for another eight years. Sadly, after having been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, she died at the age of 78 on June 4, 2012. Her mass of Christian burial was held at the family church, with interment in Holy Cross Cemetery. Of their four children, Stan married Denise -- Dennis wed Linda -- Jann tied the knot with Henry Bonness -- and David exchanged marital vows with Rosemary but was deceased by 2012.

  Granddaughter Faye Fosbrink was joined in wedlock with Willard Johnston. They settled in Indian Head and by 2009 moved to Melcroft, PA.

• Son Harry Stanton Fosbrink (1907-1945) was born on April 13, 1907 in Leisenring, Fayette County. He had an eighth grade school education. Harry stood 5 feet, 10 inches tall and weighed 165 lbs. In nuptials held in Cumberland, MD, Harry was married to Edna Mae Piper (Jan. 31, 1910-1986), daughter of Hubert and Florence (Piper) Nicklow. They were the parents of three -- Madge Loughman, Loretta "Jean" Corteal and Harry Fosbrink. They lived at 294½ East Fairview Avenue. When the federal census enumeration was made in 1940, the family resided in Connellsville, with him working at a coal mine, and her as a restaurant cook. Later that year, he was unemployed. Some evidence suggests that the pair separated by 1943. That same year, on Feb. 9, 1943, during World War II, he joined the U.S. Army. He was placed within the 347th Infantry, 87th Division. Tragically, on Jan. 30, 1945, he was killed in the line of duty in Grüfflingen, Belgium. Reported the Connellsville Daily Courier, "The soldier, who would have been 38 years of age next April, went into the armed forces more than two years ago while he was in the employ of the Anchor Hocking Glass Corporation at South Connellsville. He was serving with an infantry outfit when he gave his life in combat on the Western Front." The War Department sent a telegram to the widow. The remains were interred in Luxembourg American Cemetery in Hamm, Luxembourg. Three years later, on July 29, 1948, she went on to marry again to widower Harry Younkin (1899-1971), son of John "Wesley" and Ada Charlotte "Addie" (King) Younkin. See the Younkin biography for more.

  Granddaughter Leona "Madge" Fosbrink (1927-2004) was born on Jan. 7, 1927 in Bitner, Fayette County. She was an alumna of Trinity High School and Penn Commercial. Madge was twice-wed. Her first spouse was (?) Lilley ( ? - ? ). On Oct. 19, 1946, she tied the marital cord with Merle S. Loughman (1917-1978). He brought two stepchildren into the second union -- Richard Merle Loughman (1937-2023) and Betty Lou Prevette (1939-2010). Together they went on to produce three more sons -- Terry Loughman, Charles Loughman and Kenneth Eugene Loughman (1951-2015). They resided in Uniontown and later moved to South Franklin Township in Washington County. Sadly, Merle passed away on Feb. 4, 1978. Madge outlived her husband by a quarter of a century. Said her obituary, "She worked for more than 25 years in the Physical Therapy Department at Washington Hospital prior to retirement. For many years she was a member of the Bethel Presbyterian Church and had most recently attended Fourth Presbyterian Church in Washington." At the age of 77, she died on March 29, 2004 as a patient in the Washington County Health Center. Son Kenneth married Lucy Kozletsky ( ? - ? ) and made their homeplace in Washington, PA. Their two daughters were Dawn Michelle Loughman (1971-2013) and Nicole Lynn Kobertz. Kenneth died at the age of 63 on Nov. 17, 2015, with burial in Forest Lawn Gardens in McMurray, PA.

  Granddaughter Loretta "Jean" Fosbrink (1925-2002) was born three days before Christmas 1925. She attended school in Connellsville. Jean married John Francis Corteal (1923-1999), son of Frank and Minnie (LaPorte) Corteal, and resided in Connellsville. Their trio of children include Deborah Frances Kovach, Patricia Louise Baird and Jeffrey Stanton Corteal. An oibituary said that Jean "was retired from the Dairy Queen in Uniontown Pa., and had also worked at Ames Shoe Department. She was a member of Calvary Assembly of God Church where she was the Sunday School Secretary for 20 years. " Sadly, John died in 1999. Jean outlived him by two years and surrendered to the angel of death at the age of 76 on March 10, 2002. Rev. Charles King led the funeral service in the Calvary Assembly of God Church. Her remains sleep for the ages in Mount Olive Cemetery. Of their children, daughter Deborah married Joseph James Kovach and produced two children, Joseph Eric Kovach and Rebecca Joan Duncan, residing in Oak Ridge, TN -- daughter Patricia (1953-2022) wed James Clark Baird, dwelled in Connellsville and bore four daughters, among them Tina Louise Bloom, Nikki Wilson, Jackie Basinger and Angela Leigh Baird. Sadly, Patricia passed away at the age of 68 on Aug. 9, 2022. -- and Jeffrey (1960-2007) married Vickie, was the father of Michael Gibbs, Jennifer Corteal, Jay Shipley, Amanda Showman, Jeffrey Corteal Jr. and Stephane Corteal, and put down roots in Connellsville. He died in Highlands Hospital at the age of 46 on Jan. 24, 2007.

  Grandson Harry D. "Fish" Fosbrink (1928-2015) was born on Aug. 1, 1928 in Melcroft, Fayette County, and grew up on Carnegie Avenue in Connellsville. Following in his late father's footsteps, he served in the U.S. Army during World War II. Harry was married to Elizabeth June Huey (1927-1998) and was the father of two -- Nancy R. Shroyer and Harry Stanton Fosbrink. He was a longtime welder working for Rack Engineering. Said an obituary, "Harry was co-founder (along with Jimmy King), of Yough Fisherman's Association; co-founder (along with Charlie Craig), of Breakneck Rod and Gun Club, and member of Fay West Baseball League. He was also a member of the Fairview Aid Society, I.I. Club and their Horseshoe Camp, American Legion Post 301 and VFW Post 21. Harry loved being in the outdoors, especially when fishing, hunting, farming, trapping, playing horseshoes and gathering herbs and furs which he sold to Huggin's Trading Post in Trotter. Harry also enjoyed playing baseball, comparing himself to Jim Thorpe [and] enjoyed fishing, especially when bass fishing with Ed Young." At the age of 86, he died in Normalville on May 13, 2015. An obituary ran in the Greensburg Tribune Review. Daughter Nancy (May 18, 1947-2012) married Floyd E. Shroyer Sr. ( ? - ? ), and they were the parents of Floyd E. Shroyer, Christine Spackman and Vickie McClain. Nancy died at the age of 65 on Sept. 19, 2012.

• Son Daniel Jacob Fosbrink Sr. (1909-1973) was born on June 5, 1909 at Indian Creek near Connellsville. In adulthood he stood 5 feet, 10 inches tall and weighed 178 lbs. Daniel appears to have first wed Mary ( ? - ? ) at Mount Pleasant in 1932. The pair never lived together and their union fell apart. Evidence shows that on June 17, 1935, at Wellsburg, WV, he wed Ruth Lowman Shaulis (1917-1987), originally from Zimmerman, Somerset County, and the daughter of Franklin and Cynthia (Beck) Shaulis. The first wife objected to the second marriage and filed legal charges. The case was heard in Fayette County Court in Oct. 1935, with Daniel shouting "It's a frameup" when the assistant district attorney brought proof of the second wife. "I never married Ruth Shaulis and if they've got our names at Wellsburg, somebody's trying to frame me." But in actuality, Daniel and Ruth indeed had been wed as alleged and he had used the surname "Grimm" on the marriage license to avoid detection. Together they they went on to bear an astonishing 15 offspring, among them Alice F. Crouse, Mary Catherine Wiltrout, Betty Louise Stoots, Daniel Jacob Fosbrink Jr., John F. "Fuzzy" Fosbrink, Robert G. Fosbrink, Donna L. Pravlik, Harold Fosbrink, Ellen Lewis, Larry W. Fosbrink, Bonnie Kay McFadden, Richard "Ricky" Fosbrink, Dennis Fosbrink, David Fosbrink and Ruth Ann Darulla. They grieved at the death of son Daniel Jr. at less than a day old on Sept. 3, 1942. Daniel Sr. was a longtime coal miner. They dwelled in Acosta, PA in 1936-1939 -- Jerome, PA in 1940 -- Luciusboro/Homer City in 1940-1942, where he worked for Rochester & Pittsburgh Coal Company -- Windber, PA in 1947-1951 -- Shade Township, Somerset County in 1950 -- and later Connellsville. As of 1967-1973, they were in Mount Pleasant, PA. The angel of death cleaved him away at the age of 63 on April 23, 1973. The remains were laid to rest in Green Ridge Memorial Park. Ruth outlived her husband by 14 years and continued to reside in Mount Pleasant. At the age of 69, she passed away on Valentine's Day 1987. An obituary was published in the Somerset Daily American. The headcount of her survivors included 39 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren. Funeral obsequies were conducted in the Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Mount Pleasant.

  Granddaughter Alice Faye Fosbrink (1936-1999) was born on Aug. 5, 1936 in Acosta, Somerset County. She tied the knot with Gleason "Boyd" Crouse (1932-1990), a veteran of the Korean War. Their brood of children included Daniel B. Crouse, Jeffrey L. Crouse, John F. Crouse, Catherine Clark and Linda Riggin. Their homeplace was in South Connellsville, where she generated income through her work at Valley Dairy and taught Sunday School in the Albright United Methodist Church. Gleason died at the age of 58 on Sept. 7, 1990. Alice endured for another nine years. Sadly, the 63-year-old Alice passed away on Sept. 26, 1999. Burial followed in Green Ridge Memorial Park. Son Daniel (March 3, 1957-2022) married Rebecca. Together, they owned Hometown Diner in Connellsville but made their residence in Scottdale. Sadly, Daniel died on Jan. 6, 2022. Son Jeffrey (Oct. 9, 1960-2016) married Nellie E. Murphy ( ? - ? ). Three sons of this union were Jeffrey L. Crouse Jr., Adam Crouse and Charles Crouse. Jeffrey Sr. worked for the Greensburg Tribune-Review as a distribution driver for 26 years and also for the family dairy. Death spirited him away at the age of 55 on Jan. 20, 2016. Daughter Linda Ann Crouse (May 27, 1967-2011) tied the knot with Martin D. Riggin Sr., settled in Greensburg and together bore two children -- Stacie L. Riggin and Brandon M. Riggin. Linda was a 1985 graduate of Connellsville High School and earned a degree in nursing from Westmoreland County Community College. As a licensed practical nurse, she was employed by NAPH CARE and assigned to the county prison. She died at the age of 44 on June 15, 2011. 

  Granddaughter Mary Catherine Fosbrink (1937-2023) was born on Dec. 17, 1937 in Acosta, Somerset County. In 1957, at the age of 19, she entered into marriage with Robert C. Wiltrout (1929-2011), originally from Wooddale, and the son of Jesse A. and Hattie (Kinneer) Wiltrout Sr., of the family of Adam and Elizabeth (Younkin) Wiltrout. Their union endured for a remarkable 54 years together. Three sons of the couple were George A. Wiltrout Sr., Howard K. Wiltrout and Robert Wiltrout. Said an obituary, Mary Catherine "retired from Westmoreland Manor in the nursing field. She was a member of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Mount Pleasant, PA." Their final home was in Scottdale. Death carried Robert away at home at the age of 81 on Jan. 17, 2011. Burial was in Green Ridge Memorial Park following services conducted by Pastor John F. Fosbrink. She lived for another dozen years and passed away at the age of 85, in Scottdale, on Feb. 9, 2023. Her remains were laid to rest in Green Ridge Memorial Park. Her survivors included eight grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. Son George (Feb. 8, 1960-2004) married Brenda Nicholson ( ? - ? ) and was the father of George A. Wiltrout Jr., Amanda Wiltrout and Anthony Wiltrout. He was employed at the Mount Pleasant plant of Stone and Company and sadly died at the age of 43 on Jan. 8, 2004. Son Howard married Mary "Margaret" and settled in Uniontown, while son Robert tied the knot with Karen and Theresa and put down roots in Hunker, PA.

  Granddaughter Betty Louise Fosbrink (1939-1984) was born on Oct. 7, 1939 in Acosta, Somerset County. When she was 21 years of age, and he 20, she and garage worker James Ronald Stoots (June 27, 1937-1994) slipped away to Winchester, VA to become married on Feb. 24, 1958. Rev. Robert A. Whitten, pastor of the Congregational Christian Church, performed the marriage rites. The groom was the son of Joseph E. and Vera I. (Brown) Stoots of Connellsville. One known son was Daniel Joseph Stoots (1959- ? ). The pair initially made a home in Bennington, VT, where James was employed by BenMont Paper Company.  At the birth of their son in 1959, the news was announced in the Bennington Evening Banner. Later, after a return to southwestern Pennsylvania, they planted themselves in Dawson, Fayette County. Sadly, at the age of 45, Betty passed away in Nov. 1984. Burial was in Green Ridge Memorial Park. The widowed James survived for another decade. He succumbed to the spectre of death on March 22, 1994.

  Grandson John F. Fosbrink Sr. (1943-2025) was born on Aug. 13, 1943 in Indiana, PA. He was a 1961 graduate of Connellsville High School and then served with the U.S. Marine Corps during the Vietnam War. John exchanged marital vows with LaVerne R. Sleasman (March 4, 1930-2017), originally from Detroit and the daughter of Charles R. and Margaret V. (Cale) Sleasman. The bride was 13 years older than the groom, and their union endured for a remarkable 56 years. Together they produced a family of two sons -- Edward Wayne Fosbrink and John F. Fosbrink. The Fosbrinks lived in Bullskin Township near Connellsville. Said an obituary, "He was employed as a maintenance mechanic and truck driver having been employed at Seven Springs Resort, Cavanaugh Trucking and at the U.S. Steel Christy Works. John was also pastor of the Mt. Tabor Church of God for many years. John was a member of the Western Pennsylvania Antique Automobile Club, Coke Center Antique Automobile Club, Bedford Region Antique Automobile Club and the Allegheny Mt. Regional Antique Automobile Club [and] was also a member of the Breakneck Church of God." In her own right, LaVerne was a 1948 graduate of Connellsville High School and earned a living over time with the Galley Irwin auto dealership, Santone Motors and Cavanaugh Trucking. She also belonged to the Order of Eastern Star. Sadly. LaVerne died in their residence at the age of 87 on Oct. 9, 2017. John survived her by eight years. At the age of 81, he died in the Green Healthcare and Rehab Center in nearby Greensburg, PA on Jan. 29, 2025, having outlived his wife and both sons. Pastor Frank Stoner led the funeral, with burial in Green Ridge Memorial Park.

  Grandson Robert G. Fosbrink (1946- ? ) married Judy. They dwelled in Scottdale in 1987 and in Everson in 2003-2025.

  Granddaughter Donna L. Fosbrink (1947-2007) was born on Feb. 16, 1947. She was united in matrimony with John "Jay" Pravlik ( ? - ? ) and put down roots in Mount Pleasant. Together they produced two sons -- Michael Jay Pravlik and Tracy Lee Pravlik. They belonged to the Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in town. Sadly, at the age of 60, she surrendered to the angel of death on Aug. 30, 2007. Rev. Sherry Miller led the funeral rites. Interment was in Middle Presbyterian Cemetery in Mount Pleasant. Son Michael married Pam and have lived in Belle Vernon, while son Tracy wed Jennifer and settled in Alverton, PA.

  Grandson Harold F. Fosbrink (1948- ? ) tied the marital cord with Flossie. The pair have lived in Scottdale and Mount Pleasant.

  Granddaughter Ellen Fosbrink (1949- ? ) was born in Oct. 1949. She married David Lewis ( ? - ? ). They established a dwelling in Mount Pleasant. By 2025, she may have taken back her maiden name.

  Grandson Larry W. Fosbrink (1951-2001) was born on Oct. 13, 1951 in Windber, Somerset County. He served with the U.S. Marine Corps during the Vietnam War. Larry settled in Ruffsdale, PA and was the father of Jeannie Jones and Loretta Ferrell. Larry was self-employed as a truck driver and held a membership in the Good Shepherd Lutheran Church of Mount Pleasant. An obituary said that Larry "was a CB radio enthusiast and his friends knew him by several different handles," including "Deacon," "Red" and "Geeders." Sadness swept through the family at his death at age 49 on May 14, 2001, as a patient in Wheeling Hospital. Rev. Sherry Miller preached the funeral. His remains lie in eternal repose in Green Ridge Memorial Park.

  Granddaughter Bonnie Kay Fosbrink (1952-2003) was born on Dec. 5, 1952 in Connellsville. She was an alumna of Southmoreland High School. Bonnie wed Thomas W. McFadden Jr. ( ? - ? ). The trio of daughters in this family were Donna L. McFadden, Cynthia A. McFadden and Tammy Sue McFadden. Bonnie held memberships in the ladies auxiliary of the Connellsville Veterans of Foreign Wars and the Pennsville United Methodist Church. The family was plunged into grief at Bonnie's death at the age of 50, in Mount Pleasant's Frick Hospital, on Oct. 4, 2003. Rev. Dr. Marvin Watson presided over the funeral obsequies. Her remains sleep for the ages in Green Ridge Memorial Park.

  Grandson Richard "Ricky" Fosbrink ( ? - ? ) tied the knot with Cheryl. He made his home in 1987 in Scottdale and in 2025 in Mount Pleasant.

  Grandson Dennis Fosbrink ( ? - ? ) lived in Mount Pleasant circa 1987 and in Pittsburgh in 2003. By 2025, he had moved to Scottdale.

  Grandson David Fosbrink ( ? - ? ) dwelled in Mount Pleasant, PA before moves to Acme and Norvelt. He married Rebecca.

  Granddaughter Ruth Ann Fosbrink (1959-2026) was born on Sept. 4, 1959 in Connellsville Hospital. News of her birth was published in the Uniontown Morning Herald. Ruth was a 1977 graduate of Southmoreland High School. She first was joined in wedlock with David Darulla Sr. ( ? - ? ). They became the parents of Carol Fetter and David Darulla Jr. Her homeplace in 1987 was in Scottdale. In time she married again to (?) Thomas, remaining in town. She spent more than two decades providing health care service at Westmoreland Manor and in 2010 earned a degree in nursing at Westmoreland County Community College, becoming a registered nurse. Said an obituary, "Known for her faith-filled spirit and thoughtful nature, Ruth's life was a testament to the enduring power of love and dedication... [She] touched the lives of countless individuals with her warmth and professionalism." She was a member of the Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, and in her free time liked to play slot machines. She passed away in Mount Pleasant' Frick Hospital at the age of 66 on Feb. 23, 2026. Burial was in Scottdale Cemetery, with Pastor Peter Nordby officiating.

• Son Samuel Clinton Fosbrink (1914-1923) was born on Aug. 13, 1914. He lived with his parents in employee housing at the Herbert works near New Salem, owned by Jamison Cole & Coke Company. On the tragic day of June 21, 1923, at the age of eight, he lost his life while swimming in the Herbert reservoir. An obituary that was printed statewide said that "Going beyond his depth... [he] was drowned, while a younger companion stood by powerless to aid him." Burial of the remains was in Percy Cemetery. County coroner S.H. Baum ruled the death "accidental."

• Carl and Mabel and family Courtesy Richard Kajma

  Daughter Mabel Lillian Fosbrink (1918-1949) was born on May 24, 1918 at Breakneck, Fayette County. She tied the marital cord with Carl Willard Goodwin (1914-1991). Three children in this family were Mary Louise Goodwin, James Willard Goodwin and Laura Madge Goodwin. They made their homeplace for a decade in Bruceton Mills, WV before a move back to Breakneck Road in the rural outskirts of Connellsville. Sadly, she suffered a massive heart attack at the age of 30 and died on Feb. 28, 1949, in Bullskin Township. Funeral obsequies were conducted in the Breakneck Church of God, led by Rev. John L. Woods. Her remains were laid to rest in Green Ridge Memorial Park near Connellsville. An obituary was published in the Connellsville Daily Courier. Carl outlived his bride by more than four decades. He wed a second time to Mary Lucy Cataldi (1926-2009). At the age of 77, Carl died on Aug. 28, 1991. Burial was at Green Ridge. His widow Mary lived on for 18 years. Death spirited her away at the age of 83, in Salem, MA, on Dec. 6, 2009.

  Granddaughter Mary Louise Goodwin ( ? - ? ) was a student at Connellsville Joint High School. On Dec. 7, 1955, in nuptials held in the parsonage of the Baptist Church in Cumberland, MD, she tied the marital cord with airman Charles Ritenour Jr. ( ? - ? ), son of Charles and Helen Ritenour of Connellsville. Rev. W. Rudolph Keefe was the officiant, with the news printed in the Connellsville Daily Courier, which said that a "street length dress of sheath-designed gold and white metallic fabric was worn by the bride. It was made with buttoned neckline and elbow-length sleeves. Completing her costume were a tiny black velvet hat and bag, the latter bearing her corsage of red rosebuds with matching ribbon." The groom also had studied at Connellsville High. At the time of marriage, he had completed training at Chanute Field in Illinois and was in the process of transferring to Walker Air Force Base in New Mexico.

  Grandson James Willard Goodwin (1941-2015) was born on Sept. 21, 1941. He served in the U.S. Armed Forces. Sadly, James passed away at the age of 74 on Nov. 20, 2015. His ashes are at rest in Indiantown Gap National Cemetery.

  Granddaughter Laura Madge Goodwin (1945-2002) was born on May 30, 1945. She was but a young girl when her mother died, and she carried no memories of her mother. She married George James Tucker (1945-1990). The two offspring they bore together were George Carl Tucker (1972- ? ) and Mary Beth Tucker (1975- ? ). Laura was a nurse's aid for several years and then completed her licensed nurse education in 1969. Sadly, George died in Salem, MA at the age of 44 on Aug. 27, 1990. The widowed Laura went back to school and earned her bachelor of science in 1993, becoming a registered nurse. She supported herself as a nursing supervisor in long term care facilities. In later years Laura made her residence in Lynn, MA. At some point she was diagnosed with cancer but lived for a number of years. She once wrote that "I enjoy drawing and listening to the 'oldies' music. I have always been and Elvis fan. These days I try not to miss the 'New England Patriots' football games on TV." She died in Lynn on Christmas Day 2002, at the age of 57.

• Beatrice Skelton Courtesy Richard Kajma

  Daughter Eva "Beatrice" Fosbrink (1924-2001) was born on Feb. 19, 1924 in Fayette County and grew up in Connellsville. In July 1938, at the age of 14, she tied the knot with Allen Mack Skelton (Jan. 12, 1914-2011), a native of Elyria, OH. News of their marriage license was announced on the pages of the Connellsville Daily Courier. They were the parents of Phyllis M. McKulka, Ervin/Irwin Skelton, Joseph Skelton, John Skelton and an unnamed stillborn son (Dec. 8, 1941). Allen spent his working career as a coal miner, retiring from the Vesta 5 Mine of Jones & Laughlin Steel Corporation. He also held a membership in Local 762 of the United Mine Workers of America. Over the years, they made a homeplace in Brier Hill (1941) and Grindstone (1944) and later still in LaBelle (1963) and New Salem. Their final homeplace together was in Cardale, Fayette County. Beatrice was gathered away into the heavenly host at the age of 77 on June 17, 2001. Allen lived on for another nearly 10 years in Cardale. He passed away at the age of 97 on March 21, 2011, as a resident of Golden Living Center in Uniontown. His survivors included seven grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren. The couple sleeps for eternity in Lafayette Memorial Park in Brier Hill.

  Granddaughter Phyllis M. Skelton (1939-2012) was born on June 28, 1939 in Uniontown. She wed (?) McKulka ( ? - ? ). Their two sons were John A. McKulka and Phil McKulka. Her final home was in Cardale. The angel of death cleaved her away at the age of 72 on May 11, 2012. Son John (1961-2010) was the father of Sabrina McKulka, Eva McKulka and John McKulka. He was a carpenter and lived in Cardale. Sadly, he died suddenly on April 5, 2010. As of 2012, Phil McKulka ( ? - ? )) lived in Baltimore, MD.

  Grandson Ervin/Irwin Lee Skelton (1944-2012) was born on June 19, 1944 in Grindstone. As of 1963, he was in Baltimore, MD. Irvin later made his dwelling-place in Cardale. He was the father of John Skelton, Sherry Skelton and Allen Skelton. At the age of 68, as a patient in Uniontown Hospital, he passed away on Jan. 14, 2012.

  Grandson Joseph Skelton ( ? - ? ) joined the U.S. Army in October 1957 and underwent eight weeks of basic training at Fort Knox, KY. After completing his combat training, he was pictured in the Connellsville Daily Courier. He then took eight weeks of metalworking at the Army Ordnance School at the Aberdeen Proving Ground in Maryland. He later moved to Baltimore, MD and was there in 2011-2012.

  Grandson John Skelton lived in Cardale, PA in 2012.

• Richard Fosbrink Sr. Courtesy Richard Kajma

  Son Donald "Richard" Fosbrink Sr. (1925-1997) was born on June 10, 1924 in Melcroft, Fayette County. He joined the U.S. Marine Corps in in June 1942, with his service including a posting to Norfolk, VA. He was married three times. His trio of spouses included Dorris Louise Poindexter (March 9, 1929-2001), Marcella Lorraine Wedge (1929-2005) and Martha Roman (1917-2003). At the age of 20, in Nov. 1945, he first was joined in wedlock with 17-year-old Dorris, whom he had met in Washington, DC during his military years. They moved to his hometown area of Connellsville and in 1946 produced a son, Donald Richard Fosbrink Kajma Jr. They divorced after 14 months, and she returned to the District of Columbia, marrying again to Leonard A. Kajma, who adopted the son as his own. On Dec. 23, 1950, Richard tied the knot with his second bride Marcella in Cumberland, MD. They set up housekeeping in South Connellsville, where she may have worked at Anchor Hocking Glass Corporation as a selector. Their marriage dissolved and Marcella sued for divorce in August 1952, citing "indignities," as reported in the Uniontown Morning Herald. In time Richard moved to Philadelphia and New York City (1967). From the Big Apple, he relocated to Pike County, PA, remaining there for his final three decades. Said an obituary, "He was employed as a chef for the Dutchman restaurant in Marshalls Creek for six years and a chef at Pocono Mountain Estates Club House in Pike County. He had been a doorman for several apartment buildings in New York City." His final home was in a small green ranch house Lehman Township. Richard was twice-pictured and quoted extensively in a May 12, 1994 Philadelphia Inquirer story about his life connected to a breathing device of pure oxygen 24 hours a day, headlined "Rural Life Eats Away at Elderly." The article said "He suffers from angina and severe emphysema, has had three heart attacks and believes that he, too, has black lung from the coal mines. And up until about a month ago, as he gulped 2 liters of oxygen a minute, he was also carrying 275 pounds on his 5-foot, 8½-inch frame." As a patient in Pocono Medical Center, East Stroudsburg, he died at the age of 71 on April 13, 1997. Burial was in Prospect Cemetery in East Stroudsburg. Ex-wife Dorris wed a third time, to Orlyn Johnson, and died in Southern California on Sept. 25, 2001. Ex-wife Marcella entered into marriage again with Warren R. Firestone Sr. (1930-1995), son of David Laurence and Gertrude Margaret (Leach) Firestone of the family of Grant Louis and Christena (Kirkwood) Firestone Sr. The Firestones bore a family of children in Connellsville. Marcella passed away in Pittsburgh's Mercy Hospital on Oct. 3, 2005. Richard's widow Martha -- a native of Aguadilla, Puerto Rico -- was the mother of Julio Roman. Martha spent her final years in Bushkill, PA, and passed away at the Stroud Manor in East Stroudsburg on Dec. 22, 2003. Her obituary in the Allentown Morning Call said that she had been a "member of the Hotel Workers Union, she was a waitress for Tamiment Resort, Bushkill." Interment of Martha's remains was in Mountainview Mausoleum. 

  Grandson Donald Richard Fosbrink Jr. (1946-2019) was born in 1946. He was a baby when his parents divorced, and he later took the "Kajma" surname of his stepfather, Leonard A. Kajma. On Sept. 4, 1965, he was united in matrimony with LaRae ( ? - ? ). Their union eventually was sealed at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Temple in Sale Lake City. The pair "spent 54 crazy years together," said an obituary. Their brood of offspring included Richard Fosbrink, Linda Fosbrink, Charlotte Fosbrink, Joshua Fosbrink, Suzanne Fosbrink and Erie Fosbrink. He liked to claim to his family that in boyhood, he was apprehended by the Secret Service running over the White House lawn, and when questioned, President Dwight Eisenhower gave him a bright red fire truck. Among his jobs were refilling candy vending machines, including at the White House --  ice cream truck driver -- painting automobiles for Hayes Brothers Buick in Salt Lake -- working at an officers club -- and employment as a plant foreman at Serta Mattress. The obituary said that Donald "loved to bowl and played on a league for many years. He also loved to hustle people at pool. However, his favorite hobby was "yard-saling." Donald died in Utah at the age of 72 on March 5, 2019. Interment of the remains was in Mountain View Memorial Estates Cemetery in Cottonwood Heights, UT.