Connellsville Daily Courier, 1946

In late March 1933, Jake filed a civil law suit against cousin Ephraim Miner (son of John Andrew Miner), alleging that Ephraim owed him $10.00 "for goods sold and delivered ... over and above all discounts which the said Ephraim Miner may have against him." Ephraim is said to have left the county with intent to defraud Jake, so Ephraim's employer, cousin Oakey Harbaugh, apparently was required to garnish his wages for repayment of the debt. The case was heard by cousin William Henry "Squire" Miner, a justice of the peace in Mill Run.

The Shroyers again were in the news in December 1946 when they filed a legal complaint against their son-in-law and daughter, Oakey and Gertrude Harbaugh. The case involved a family controversy over timber land, reported the Daily Courier. "An agreement was entered, the suit says, for the sale of the acreage to the Harbaughs for $6,000 with the assumpton of the dower interest held by Lucinda Youngkin, later Lucinda Johnson. The court is asked to act to restrain the defendants from cutting and removing saw timber, other than oak. Violation of the terms of the agreement is alleged."

After more than a half-century of marriage, Jacob died of a “coronary occlusion” on Oct. 17, 1949, at the age of 76.

Laura Belle died of leukemia a year later, on Oct. 16, 1950. She was buried beside her husband, near her Younkin and Harbaugh ancestors at the Imel Cemetery.

~ Daughter Annabelle "Gertrude" (Shroyer) Harbaugh ~

Daughter Annabelle "Gertrude" Shroyer (1897-1978) was born in 1897. 

She married Oakey D. Harbaugh, a cousin, and resided at Normalville, Fayette County. See the Harbaugh biography for more on this family.

~ Son William Dayton Shroyer Sr. ~

Son William Dayton Shroyer Sr. (1905-1992) was born on March 25, 1905 in Mill Run, Fayette County. His unnamed twin brother died at birth and was buried in the Imel Cemetery.

William's first wife was Grace Sarah Ann Augustine (1905-1933), the daughter of William Arthur and Ella Blanche (McNair) Augustine. Their wedding took place on Feb. 3, 1925, when both were approaching their 20th year of age. 

During their eight years of marriage, the young couple produced three children -- Jessie Lorraine Johnson, William Dayton Shroyer Jr. and Carl Welfy Francis Schroyer.

The Shroyers made a home near Mud Pike, about three miles from the Maple Summit Church.

Heartache rocked this family when Grace became seriously ill and was admitted for treatment at Frantz Hospital in nearby Confluence, Somerset County. Sadly, she could not recover and succumbed in late February 1933, at the age of 27. After a funeral, her remains were laid to rest in the burying ground of the old Maple Summit Church, and an obituary was printed in the Connellsville Daily Courier.

Her untimely passing left behind a grieving widower, two young sons and a daughter.

William later married Jenny Hillen (Jan. 25, 1912-1975), daughter of Elias and Chloe (Adams) Hillen and a native of Bullskin Township, Fayette County. In an interesting twist, Jenny's brother Ralph Hillen Sr. married William's distant double cousin Leona "Pearl" Younkin, daughter William "Harrison" and Etta (Strawderman) Younkin of the family of John X. and Eliza Ann (Rose) Younkin.

The second marriage produced 10 more children -- Olive "Ruth" Christman, Esther Faye Powell, Gerald Elias Shroyer, Gilbert Lee Shroyer, Linda "Mardel" Powell, Robert Windell Shroyer, Floyd Edward Shroyer, Donna Jean Smith, Paul Richard Shroyer and Betty "Marlene" Lint.

The Shroyers were farmers, with William also laboring as a coal miner for Eastern Gas & Fuel Co. of Melcroft, PA. Jennie was a member of the Critchfield Christian and Missionary Alliance Church.

The couple relocated to Normalville in about 1956 and made a home along Poplar Run Road.

Jennie was admitted to Connellsville State General Hospital and died there at the age of 63 on Aug. 17, 1975. An obituary in the Daily Courier noted that she was survived by 41 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.

The twice-widowed William was wedded a third time to Mandy Rugg ( ? - ? ). He was featured in a 1991 Daily Courier story, “Local Mans Turns 86."

Sadly, he outlived his son David (died 1949) and William Jr. (1991).

He passed away in Dawson on Nov. 12, 1992. Burial was in Maple Summit Cemetery, following a funeral service in the Critchfield Missionary Alliance Church led by Rev. Timothy McGarvey and Rev. Thomas Milford. At his death, William had “40 grandchildren; many great-grandchildren; and six great-great grandchildren,” according to obituaries in the Uniontown Herald-Standard and Greensburg Tribune-Review.

After Jennie's passing in 1975, the family decided to hold an annual gathering on Labor Day. These reunions have continued for decades and are still active as of 2022.

Daughter Jessie Loraine Shroyer (1925-2005) was born on May 9, 1925 in or near Mill Run. She eloped to Accident, MD on March 10, 1943 to marry John "Reid" Johnson (May 23, 1924-1961), son of Alvin R. and Effie (Schmuck) Johnson of Somerset County. The couple went on to produce six children -- Regis John Johnson, Patricia Jean Pirl, Ronald Clayton Johnson, Debra Ann Stonebraker, Leonard Lee Johnson and Karen Sue Johnson. They made a home in Mill Run, where Reid labored as a coal miner. The family belonged to the Critchfield Christian and Missionary Alliance Church. Tragically, at the age of 36, Reid underwent amputation of his right leg below the knee while a patient in Connellsville State Hospital. He then suffered an acute heart attack, and could not rally. He succumbed to death after a nine-days' stay on March 15, 1961. Interment was in Maple Summit Church Cemetery, with Rev. Harry Holliday presiding over the funeral service at the church. An obituary was printed in the Connellsville Daily Courier. Jessie supported herself by working in housekeeping at Seven Springs Mountain Resort. She outlived her husband by more than four decades, remaining in Mill Run, and sadly outlived four of her offspring. She was gathered in by the Angel of Death at the ae of 79 on April 30, 2005. Rev. Paul Freidhof officiated at the funeral, with interment of the remains following in Maple Summit Cemetery. An obituary in the Greensburg Tribune-Review said that she was survived by nine grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren.

• Grandson Regis John Johnson ( ? - ? ) was deceased by 2005.

• Granddaughter Patricia Jean Johnson ( ? - ? ). She married (?) Pirl ( ? - ? ). She was deceased by 2005.

• Grandson Ronald Clayton Johnson ( ? - ? ) was deceased by 2005.

• Granddaughter Debra Ann Johnson ( ? - ? ) was born in (?). In about 1978, she wedded Ronald Dale Stonebraker (1950-2003), son of Joseph Dale and Shirley J. (Burnsworth) Stonebraker. Their marriage spanned 25 years. Two sons born to this union were Tony Allen Stonebraker and Ronald Dale Stonebraker Jr. The couple relocated in about 1983 to Champion, Fayette County. Ronald was a longtime coal miner, employed by Tunnelton Mining. He belonged to the Amereican Legion post in Donegal, Veterans of Foreign Wars in Mount Pleasant and the Kosciuszko Club, also of Mount Pleasant. Ronald died at home at the age of 52 on March 11, 2003. Rev. Paul C. Freidhof led the funeral service, with interment in Sands Cemetery in Stewart Township, Fayette County. An obituary was published in the Greensburg Tribune-Review.

• Grandson Leonard Lee "Lenny" Johnson ( ? - ? ). He and Robert Morrison of Mill Run were lifetime companions.

• Granddaughter Karen Sue Johnson ( ? - ? ) was deceased by 2005.

Son William Dayton Jacob Shroyer Jr. (1927-1991) was born on Jan. 28, 1927. On July 2, 1951, when he was 24 years of age, he wed Martha Patricia Williams (March 15, 1934-1989). Their four children were William Eugene Shroyer, Agnes Maria Shroyer, Bernice Dawn Reckner and Dennis Lee Shroyer. Sadly, Martha died at the age of 55 on April 6, 1989. Her remains were lowered into eternal repose in the sacred soil of the Maple Summit Cemetery. The family's sadness was compounded when William only outlived his bride by less than two years and passed away on Jan. 6, 1991. He sleeps for the ages beside his wife at Maple Summit.

• Grandson William Eugene Shroyer

• Granddaughter Agnes Maria Shroyer

• Granddaughter Bernice Dawn Reckner

• Grandson Dennis Lee Shroyer ( ? -living) is a 1977 graduate of Turkeyfoot Valley High School. He worked for many years in heavy construction and retired from this occupation. Circa 1982, he entered into marriage with Connie L. Rowe (March 31, 1966-2023), daughter of Harry and Anna Mae (Hall) Rowe. The couple's two children were Joshua Shroyer and April Hoffer. In 1975, when their son was born, the family was in Fairmont, WV. Later they relocated to Connellsville. The family grieved at the passing of grandson Jacob Styles Shroyer on Oct. 13, 2016. Connie was diagnosed with cancer and suffered for the final two-and-a-half years of her life. During that time, sadness blanketed the family when Joshua died on July 18, 2022. Connie surrendered to the angel of death at the age of 66 on Jan. 11, 2023.

  Great-grandson Joshua Shroyer (1975-2022) was born on March 23, 1975 in Fairmont, Marion County, WV. He produced two known children, Jacob Styles Shroyer and Gage Shroyer. Circa 2016, he was married to Jamie Firestone ( ? - ? ) and in 2022, he resided in Mill Run, Fayette County, PA. Joshua died at the age of 47 on July 18, 2022. An obituary was printed in the Connellsville Daily Courier. Their son Jacob (Sept. 16, 1999-2016) made his home in Dunbar Township and was a student at Connellsville Area High School, expressing himself as an artist, poet, teacher and aspiring writer and as a guitarist and vocalist with the band Arctic Glass. He died without warning at the age of 17 on Oct. 13, 2016.  

  Great-granddaughter April Shroyer wed Ron Hoffer. Their offspring includes Ronnie Hoffer. 

Son Carl Welfy Francis "Doc" Schroyer (1929-2014) was born on March 11, 1929 in Clay Run, Fayette County. He was but a young boy when his mother died. When he was 18 years of age, on Oct. 6, 1947, in Cumberland, MD, he married Dorothy Jean Channing (Jan. 3, 1932-2009), a native of Wintersville, OH and the daughter of Lester and Mary (Daley) Channing. She was the daughter of Lester Ward and Mary Blanche (Dailey) Channing. As an adult, he added the "c" to the spelling of the family name. They resided in Chambersburg and Greencastle, Franklin County, PA and had five children -- Carol Ann Witmer Lowe, Michael David Schroyer, Beverly Louise Schroyer, John Steven Schroyer and Timothy Carl Schroyer. Carl earned a living over the years as a truck driver and is known to have logged more than three million miles without an accident. He was a member of the Teamsters local union in nearby Hagerstown, MD and was last emploiyed by Rider-Pie Trucking of Hagerstown. Dorothy Jean loved her flower gardens and was a member of the Greencastle-Antrim Homemakers. She also followed the Greencastle-Antrim Blue Devils high school sports teams. Their home in the early 2000s was at 3643 Hill Road in Greencastle. Sadness enveloped the family when Dorothy Jean was gathered in by the Angel of Death on Aug. 24, 2009. Carl survived his bride by five-plus years. In his final years, Carl went to live with his granddaugher in Falling Waters, Berkeley County, WV. Then as his health was in decline, he was admitted to the Berkeley Medical Center in Martinsburg, where he died at the age of 85 on Dec. 28, 2014. Dorothy Jean's nephew David Channing officiated at Carl's funeral service, with burial in Cedar Hill Cemetery in Greencastle.

• John S. Schroyer, March  1990, at the grave of his  great-great-grandparents

  Granddaughter Carol Ann Schroyer was twice married. Her first husband was (?) Witmer ( ? - ? ). Later, she wedded Charles Lowe ( ? - ? ). Their home in 2009-2014 was in Smithsburg, MD.

• Grandson Michael David Schroyer dwelled in Greencastle, Franklin County in 2009-2014.

• Granddaughter Beverly Louise Schroyer was united in holy matrimony with Gary Meadows. They resided in 2014 in Waynesboro, Franklin County.

• Grandson John Steven Schroyer ( ? - ? ) was born in (?). In the early 1990s, he was active in researching his family roots and contributed significantly to the content of this webpage. He and the founder of this website toured historical family sites in the Connellsville and Clay Run areas on a snowy day in March 1990. He was joined in wedlock with Robin and lived in Waynesboro in 2009-2014.

• Grandson Timothy Carl Schroyer made a home in 2009-2014 in Carlisle, Cumberland County, PA.

Daughter Olive "Ruth" Shroyer (1938-2021) was born on June 24 or 26, 1938. She married Charles Richard "Dick" Christman ( ? - ? ) on April 21, 1956, in Rockwood, Somerset County. He was the son of Charles William and Elva Pauline (Scotts) Christman. Their six children were Charles Dayton Christman, Kimberly Rae Jones, Teri Lee Baldwin, Tammy Ann Kesslar, Joyce Elaine Jones and Lori Kay Christman. Ruth earned a living as a cook at the Barbara Joyce Restaurant and as a waitress at Blue Ridge Restaurant. She worshipped at the Connellsville Revival Center and the Calvary Assembly of God Church. Ruth's home in her later years was in Dickerson Run, Fayette County. She bore the heartache of the untimely deaths of her adult daughters Kimberly Jones and Teri Rhoades. As a patient in Connellsville's Highlands Hospital, she passed away at age 83 on Dec. 9, 2021. Rev. Matthew Goldsberry led the funeral service, followed by interment in Mt. Nebo Cemetery.

• Grandson Charles Dayton Christman ( ? -living) - He was united in matrimony with Wanda. They established a home in Dawson, Fayette County.

• Granddaughter Kimberly Rae Christman (1959-2017) was born on Nov. 5, 1959 in Connellsville. She wedded George Allen Jones Sr. ( ? -living). Their marital union lasted for 38 years until death cut them apart. The family dwelled in Waltersburg, Fayette County and produced two offspring, Zandra Lee "Sis" Jones and George Allen "Bub" Jones Jr. Kimberly earned a living as a cook for such employers as Barbara Joyce Restaurant, the Fayette County Prison system and Bob Evans Restaurants. She often opened their home to others as a refuge in times of crisis. The family was plunged into deep grieving when Kimberly Rae died on Christmas Eve 2017.

  Great-granddaughter Zandra Lee "Sis" Jones ( ? - ? ) was married to or a companion of Dewane Allen Shultz Sr. ( ? - ? ). The known offspring in this family were Dewane Allen Shultz Jr., Breanna Shultz, James Shultz and McKenzie Shultz. Later, Zandra appears to have been a companion of Eric Teets ( ? - ? ). Sadly, their son Dewane Jr. (Sept. 17, 2001-2023) died at home in Dawson, PA at the age of 21 on New Year's Day 2023. An obituary said that Dewane Jr. "was an avid gun collector and loved riding dirt bikes and atvs with his brother and sisters. He had worked for UPS for many years and recently switched from a supervisor to a delivery driver."

  Great-grandson George Allen "Bub" Jones Jr. ( ? - ? ) 

• Granddaughter Teri Lee "Jo" Christman (1961-2007) was born on July 21, 1961 in Connellsville. She was married several times. One of her spouses was (?) Rhoades ( ? - ? ). The couple bore a son, Alvian K. Rhoades. At some point she married (?) Baldwin ( ? - ? ). Another spouse, her last, was Greg Sisson ( ? - ? ), son of Michael and Janet M. Sisson and stepson of Linda Sisson. She and Greg produced a son, Charles R. Allen Sisson. As had her sister Kimberly, Teri Lee worked for several years at Barbara Joyce Restaurant in Mount Pleasant. From there she became a nurse's aide and spent five years employed at Harmon House. The family attended the Connellsville Revival Center. Circa 2007, the Sissons' home was in Vanderbilt, Fayette County. Teri Lee loved to cook, and her specialty was desserts, especially homemade pies. Sadly, without warning, Teri Lee died at the age of 45 on March 19, 2007 while a patient in Highlands Hospital.  Burial was in Mt. Nebo Cemetery in Champion, Fayette County, with the funeral service preached by Rev. Charles Pringle.

• Granddaughter Tammy Ann Christman ( ? -living) was born in (?). She was joined in wedlock with Ronald Eugene "Gene" Kesslar (June 28, 1956-2018), son of Melvin Eugene and Janet Marie (May) Kesslar. Their marriage endured for 37 years. The couple dwelled in Liberty/Dickerson Run, Fayette County and were the parents of a son, Timothy Kesslar. Ronald was employed in the warehouse of Pechin Supermarket in Dunbar. He spent his free time outdoors and liked to hunt, root for the Pittsburgh Steelers and listen to the heavy metal band Rush. Sadness cascaded over the family when Ronald died suddenly at the age of 61 on May 30, 2018. Rev. Matthew P. Goldsberry presided over the funeral service, with burial held in the Dickerson Run Union Cemetery.

• Granddaughter Joyce Elaine Christman married or has been a companion of Jeff Jones. Their home in 2017-2021 was in Vanderbilt, Fayette County. They are the parents of Shannon Jones-Davila.

• Granddaughter Lori Kay Christman wedded Marshal Flynn. He brought two daughters to the union. The couple went on to bear two children of their own, Ashley Flynn and Richard Flynn. They resided in Leisening in 2007 and in Brownsville, Fayette County in 2017. Lori moved to Connellsville and was there in 2021.

Daughter Esther Faye Shroyer (1939-living) was born on Sept. 25, 1939 in Mill Run. On Oct. 10, 1969, in Winchester, VA, she eloped to marry Gordon W. Powell (Dec. 20, 1936-2005), son of Thomas W. and Minnie Marie (Plens) Powell of Masontown, Fayette County. Their union endured for 46 years. They resided for many decades in Connellsville and bore two offspring, Mark Wayne Powell and Darla Faye Powell. For 42½ years, Gordon was employed by Anchor Hocking Glass Corporation in South Connellsville, operating a tow motor in the shipping department. In his free time, he followed a wide variety of sports and especially liked to hunt, fish and walk. They were affiliated with or members of the Calvary Assembly of God Church in Connellsville. Circa 1976, their address was 1428 Maple Street. As Gordon's health failed, he was admitted to Highlands Hospital in Connellsville. He died there at the age of 68 on June 12, 2005. Burial was in Dawson Methodist Church Cemetery, following a funeral led by Pastor Matthew P. Goldsberry. An obituary was published in the Uniontown Herald Standard.

• Grandson Mark Wayne Powell (1961-living) was born in 1961. Mark lived in Uniontown. He married Teressa, and they bore a daughter, Madison Powell..

• Granddaughter Darla Faye Powell (1971-2010) was born on July 2, 1971 in Connellsville. She was pictured in the Connellsville Daily Courier at her fifth birthday. After high school graduation, she attended the Valley Forge Christian College. She was employed as a selector by Anchor Hocking Glass Corporation in South Connellsville. She followed professional wrestling and raised and showed English bulldogs. She also was a member of the Assembly of God Church Church, also in South Connellsville. She contracted cancer and endured it for a lengthy period of time. She succumbed in Pittsburgh's Magee Womens Hospital, at the age of 38, on June 29, 2010. Funeral services were conducted by Rev. Roger Richter, with burial in Bryan Cemetery in Dawson. The Uniontown Herald Standard published an obituary.

Son Gerald Elias Shroyer (1940-1992) was born on Oct. 14, 1940 in Mill Run. He married Lois Gail Workman (1940- ? ), daughter of Oliver and Helen (Crossland) Workman. Their nuptials took place on Sept. 17, 1966 in Winchester, VA. The Shroyers had two daughters, Tonya Gail Krause and Julie Renae Shroyer. For 22 years, he was employed by Westinghouse in Greensburg for many years as a craftsman, and served with the Pennsylvania National Guard for more than 26 years. He also attended the Calvary Assembly of God in Connellsville. Their home in 1977 was at 1008 Springfield Pike. He died just 16 days after his father, on Nov. 28, 1992. He was laid to rest in Green Ridge Memorial Park in Pennsville, near Connellsville, with his funeral service officiated by Rev. George McLean, with full military rites.

• Granddaughter Tonya Gail Shroyer (1970- ? ) was born in 1970. When she turned six years of age, and then seven, she was pictured in the Connellsville Daily Courier. Tonya was joined in wedlock with (?) Krause ( ? - ? ).

• Granddaughter Julie Renae Shroyer (1972- ? ) was born in 1972. Her photograph portrait was published in the Connellsville Daily Courier on her fifth birthday.

Gilbert Shroyer and Esther Powell at the 2011 Younkin Reunion in Kingwood, PA, with his son Shawn Shroyer. Below: Daily Courier article about Gilbert's 78th birthday, while although ill with cancer, he received the gift of a parade of cars passing his home in a community tribute.

Son Gilbert Lee Shroyer (1942-2020) was born on May 17, 1942 in Mill Run. On Oct. 9, 1965, when he was 23 years of age, in nuptials held in Connellsville, he wedded Joyce Workman ( ? - ? ). Their marriage endured for nearly 55 years. In an interesting twist, Gilbert's brother Gerald married Joyce's sister Lois. Their three children were Cheryl Ann Shroyer, Brian Lee Shroyer and Shawn Ray Shroyer. The family dwelled in Connellsville, where Gilbert was employed by the Local 1058 Laborers Union. He also was a veteran of the U.S. Army National Guard. In his spare time, he had a wide range of interests -- from woodworking, mechanics and gardening to genealogy and watching NASCAR races. He is said to have "had the best stuffed peppers around." He also followed the Pittsburgh Steelers and Penn State Nittany Lions football teams and relished watching his sons and grandsons participate in scholastic football, baseball and wrestling. In 2012 and 2019, Gilbert attended the Younkin Reunion in Kingwood, PA and in 2013 came to the Minerd-Minard-Miner-Miner Reunion in Indian Head, PA, always carrying a thick three-ring binder stuffed with family history papers. Gilbert contracted lung cancer and endured the illness for some time. At his 78th birthday in May 2020, during the coronavirus pandemic and stay-at-home quarantine, the community held a drive-by parade in his honor, with his picture appearing in the Connellsville Daily Courier. He proclaimed to his family that it had been the best day of his life. Sadly, he succumbed to the cancer on Sept. 13, 2020 at home. Funeral servies were held in Connellsville's Calvary Assembly of God Church, co-officiated by Pastor Matt Goldsberry and Pastor Mark VanBibber. Interment of the remains was in Green Ridge Memorial Park, with the Connellsville Veterans Commission providing honors at the cemetery. The family asked in the obituary that any memorial donations be made to the Wounded Warrior Project.

• Granddaughter Cheryl Ann Shroyer  (1968- ? ) was born in about 1968. She married David Ozias ( ? - ? ). They are the parents of Jared Ozias and Chad Ozias.

• Grandson Brian Lee Shroyer (1972- ? ) was born in 1972. At his fourth and fifth birthdays, he was pictured in the Connellsville Daily Courier. Brian  wed Beth ( ? - ? ).

• Grandson Shawn Ray Shroyer was joined in marriage with a distant cousin, Brittany Corvin, daughter of Thomas and Lynne (Peterson) Corvin of the family of "Devil Jake" and Sarah A. (Tannehill) Younkin. They have a family and live in Connellsville. Shawn has contributed valuable content for this biography.

Robert, Catherine, Kathleen. Courtesy Kathleen Pesuti

Son Robert Wendell Shroyer (1943-2003) was born on July 9, 1943 in Clay Run, Fayette County. He was a six-year military veteran of the Vietnam War era, from 1960 to 1966. Later he earned a living over the years as a carpenter and belonged to the Carpenters Union Local 2274. Circa 1963, he entered into marriage with Catherine Emerick ( ? - ? ), daughter of Caton and Hazel (Wingrove) Emerick of Normalville. News of their marriage license was published in the Uniontown and Connellsville newspapers. Together, the couple produced a family of six children -- Robert Scott Shroyer, David Shroyer, Kathleen Pesuti, William "Bill" Shroyer, Mark Alan Faust and Timothy. The family dwelled at Normalville, PA in 1965 and later relocated to Lemont Furnace near Uniontown, Fayette County, PA. In his free time, Robert liked to fish and hunt. Evidence suggests that may have married again to Minnie Faust ( ? - ? ). Four stepchildren were involved with the family -- Frank Faust, Nancy LaPorte, John Faust and Vicki Lint. Sadly, he died at age 59 in 2003. Funeral services were held at the Church of God of Propecy, by the hand of Rev. Charles Pringle. His remains were laid to rest in Cove Run Cemetery,with the AMVETS Post 103 of Hopwood assisting. He was survived by five grandchildren and 15 step-grandchildren. 

• Grandson Robert Scott Shroyer (1964- ? ) was born in 1964. At his first birthday, he was pictured in the Connellsville Daily Courier. He married Army and has lived in Youngwood, PA.

• Grandson David Shroyer wed Tammy. They were in Connellsville in 2003.

• Granddaughter Kathleen Shroyer was joined in wedlock with Anthony "Tony" Pesuti. The pair put down roots in Uniontown. Kathleen met the founder of this website at the 2022 Shroyer Reunion in Connellsville. 

• Grandson William "Bill" Shroyer was united in matrimony with Becky. Circa 2003, they resided in Connellsville.

• Grandson Mark Alan Faust (1969-2011) was born in about 1969. The son of Robert W. Shroyer, he used the name "Faust" and made his habitat in Lemont Furnace. Sadly, he died at the age of 42 in UPMC Montefiore Hospital in Pittsburgh on Nov. 6, 2011. His remains were lowered into rest in Cove Run Cemetery.

• Grandson Timothy was in Uniontown in 2003.

• Step-grandson Frank Faust ( ? - ? ) was born in (?). In about 1985, he married Darlene Blosser Sept. 29, 1964-2020), daughter of Donald and Beverly Blosser and stepdaughter of James Lohr. The couple planted themselves in Lemont Furnace and remained together for 35 years. They became the parents of four -- Frank Faust Jr., Rebecca Faust, Robert Faust and Joanie Faust. Said the Connellsville Daily Courier, "Darlene loved a good laugh and enjoyed every minute spent with her family. She was a friend to whomever needed one and had a major love for animals." Sadly, at the age of 55, Darlene died at home on Feb. 24, 2020. In an obituary, the family asked that any memorial donations be made to the Westmoreland County Humane Society.

• Step-granddaughter Nancy Faust entered into marriage with David LaPorte.

• Step-grandson John Faust

• Step-granddaughter Vicki Faust wed William T. Lint ( ? - ? ), son of Christ and Madelyn (Forsythe) Lint. Four offspring believed to have been born to the pair were Billie Jo Lowry, John Michael Lint, William Nathan Lint, Nickolas Lint and Joanie Lint. In 2003, Vicki made a home in Lemont Furnace. The couple divorced, with William moving to Youngwood. By 2020, she had wed Van Rosensteel. 

  Step-great-granddaughter Billie Jo Lint (1982-2018) was born on July 31, 1982 in Uniontown. She resided in Tri-Town and later in Tarentum, PA. She married (?) Claycomb, son of Randy and Susan Claycomb. She was the mother of Jayde Lowry, Paige Lowry and Alexis Watt. Grief cascaded over the family when Billie Jo died at home at the age of 36 on Sept. 8, 2018. Interment was in Cochran Cemetery, with Pastor Rick Goodwin leading the funeral service.

Daughter Linda "Mardel" Shroyer (1944-2020) was born on June 10, 1944 in Mill Run, Fayette County. She married Lee Randolph Powell Sr. (June 24, 1939-2016), son of Thomas and Minnie (Plan) Powell. Their known offspring were Lee Randolph Powell Jr., Keith Powell, Tina Lash and Gerald Eugene Powell Sr. For 14 years, Lee was employed as a custodian by Geibel Catholic High School in Connellsville. He liked to watch automobile racing and to hunt and fish. Mardel spent her life as a homemaker and was a member of World Christian Outreach Ministries. Circa 1976, the family's address was 829 North Pittsburgh Street. Sadly, Lee died in Highlands Hospital at the age of 77 on Oct. 11, 2016. His obituary was published in the Connellsville Daily Courier. The widowed Mardel survived her spouse by four years and remained in Connellsville. She passed into eternity at the age of 76 on Nov. 17, 2020.

• Grandson Lee Randolph "Randy" Powell Jr. (1964-2012) was born on April 29, 1964 in Connellsville. He married Verna Jean Jacobs ( ? -living), and their union endured for three decades until cleaved apart by death. They dwelled in Connellsville and bore six children -- Randy Lee Powell, Jason S. Powell, Korie M. Powell. Brandon Lee Powell, Tyler Powell and Jennifer Lynn Thomas. As with his brother Gerald, Lee was self-employed over the years as a plasterer. He played pool and horseshoes in his spare time, and liked to fish and hunt. Sadly, suffering from leukemia at the age of 48, he was admitted for treatment to UPMC Shadyside. No recovery was possible, and he died on Oct. 5, 2012. Pastor Charles Kessler officiated at the funeral service, with an obituary appearing in the Greensburg Tribune-Review.

Great-grandson Randy Lee Powell married Jessie Lynn and lives in Connellsville.

Great-grandson Jason S. Powell wedded Stevie Lynn and make a home in Connellsville.

Great-grandson Korie M. Powell dwells in Connellsville.

Great-grandson Brandon Lee Powell resides in Connellsville.

Great-grandson Tyler Powell was in Connellsville in 2012.

Great-grandson Jennifer Lynn Powell was united in matrimony with Robert Thomas. They put down roots in Dawson, Fayette County.

• Grandson Keith Allen Powell (1970-living) was born in about 1970. He married Jodi Gallo ( ? -living). They were the parents of Ashley Gray and Amy Powell. Sadly, daughter Amy passed into heaven's embrace at birth in 1997. They made a residence in 2005 in Dunbar, Fayette County and in 2020 in Connellsville.

• Granddaughter Tina Marie Powell (1971-living) was born in 1971. At her birthdays over the years, she was pictured in the Connellsville Daily Courier. She wedded (?) Wassel and (?) Lash ( ? - ? ). Her six children are Kelly Lash, Kayle Salivan, Krystal Lash, Nicholas Lash, Jesse Wassel and Gerald Wassel. The Wassel children resided with Tina's mother. Tragically, she lost son Nicholas at birth in 2000. Her home in 2016 was in Connellsville.

• Grandson Gerald Eugene Powell Sr. (1966-2005) was born on April 19, 1966 in Connellsville. He was the father of an only son, Gerald Eugene Powell Jr. Gerald Sr. earned a living over the years as a self-employed plastering contractor. The family were Protestants. Sadly, Gerald Sr. died in Highlands Hospital at the age of 39 on Nov. 23, 2005. Pastor Don Smith preached the funeral sermon, with burial following in the Bryan Methodist Church Cemetery in nearby Dawson. An obituary was printed in the Connellsville Daily Courier.

Great-grandson Gerald Eugene Powell Jr. ( ? -living) was born in (?). Gerald Jr. has served as a Pennsylvania State Trooper and in 2012 was one of 56 troopers honored by the Pennsylvania Driving Under the Influence Association for his efforts to combat drinking and driving.

Son Floyd Edward Shroyer Sr. (1945- ? ) was born on July 9, 1943, on his brother Robert's birthday. When he was 20 years of age, on Feb. 27, 1966, Floyd married Nancy Ruth Fosbrink (May 18, 1947-2012), daughter of Harry D. "Fish" and Elizabeth (Huey) Fosbrink and granddaughter of Edna Mae (Nicklow) Fosbrink Younkin and step-granddaughter of Harry Younkin of the family of John Wesley and Ada Charlotte (King) Younkin . Their three children were Christine Dawn Spackman, Vicky Rae Shroyer and Floyd Edward Shroyer Jr. As of 1975, they dwelled in Connellsville.

• Granddaughter Christine Dawn Shroyer (1967- ? ) was born in 1967. As with her siblings, the Connellsville Daily Courier printed her photo portrait on her seventh birthday. She was united in matrimony with (?) Spackman ( ? - ? ).

• Granddaughter Vicky Rae Shroyer (1970- ? ) was born in 1970. She was pictured in the Connellsville Daily Courier upon her fifth birthday.

• Grandson Floyd Edward Shroyer Jr. (1974- ? ) was born in 1974. On his first birthday, his photograph was printed in the Connellsville Daily Courier. 

Daughter Donna Jean Shroyer (1946- ? ) was born on Sept. 27, 1946 in Mill Run, Fayette County. She wed a distant cousin, Ronald James Smith Sr. (1942-1990) on Oct. 3, 1966 at the Indian Head Church of God. He was the son of Harvey A. and Clema (Romesburg) Smith of the family of Harriet (Younkin) Romesburg Turney of Confluence, PA. In Ronald's family tree, he also was a direct descendant of Andrew Jackson "Andy" and Harriet V. (Younkin) Moon. Their three known children were Ronald James Smith Jr., Penny Michelle Moose and Gloria Jean Smith. In 1974, the family made its residence in Melcroft, PA. Sadly, their daughter Gloria Jean died in infancy. Ronald Sr. passed into eternity while in Philadelphia at the age of 48 on March 12, 1990. Donna Jean outlived her husband by many decades and married a second time to widower Allen J. Harman (Jan. 17, 1930-2004), son of Leman and Grace (Hoffer) Harman of Stahlstown, Westmoreland County. Allen and his first wife Charmaine (Kreger) Harman had borne five children whom he brought as adults to the second marriage -- George Harman, Beverly McClain, Toni Ulery, Renee Shafer and O.J. Harman. The Harmans established a residence in Ligonier, Westmoreland County. Allen was a veteran of the Korean War and a self-employed carpenter during his career. He belonged to the Mt. Zion Lutheran Church of Donegal and was a member of the Donegal Veterans of Foreign Wars, American Legion and Chestnut Ridge Lions Club. Sadly, Donna became widowed a second time when Allen succumbed to death at home at the age of 74 on March 5, 2004. Funeral services were held in the Mt. Zion Church, led by Rev. Carol Sipes, with interment following in Porch Cemetery in Donegal Township. His obituary was printed in the Greensburg Tribune-Review. Donna spent her final years in North Huntingdon. She died on Jan. 13, 2020. In an obituary, it was said that "Donna was a homemaker and a wonderful cook." A celebration of her life was held at the Calvary Assembly of God in Connellsville.

• Grandson Ronald James Smith Jr. (1968-2019) was born on Jan. 21, 1968 in Somerset. He was the father of Kyle James Smith and Madeline Paige Smith. Ronald married Kristine (Shadder) Mimis ( ? -living). She brought these offspring to the union -- Nathan Mimis, Elizabeth Mimis, John Mimis and Emily Cavallo. The Smiths made their home in Acme, Westmoreland County, PA. Ronald was a graduate of Waynesburg College. He went on to a career in teaching and football coaching in the Turkeyfoot Valley Area, Connellsville and Waynesburg districts. He was a member of the Pennsylvania State Education Association (PSEA) and National Rifle Association, and like to hunt, fish and ride quad vehicles. Sadness enveloped the family when Ronald died at the age of 51 on July 7, 2019. His funeral was led by double cousin Rev. Dean Hay, of the family of Amanda (Younkin) Hechler, with interment in Maple Summit Cemetery. Obituaries were published in the Greensburg Tribune-Review and Somerset Daily American.

• Granddaughter Penny Michelle Smith (1972-living) was born in 1972. Her photograph appeared in the Connellsville Daily Courier on her second birthday. She was joined in marital union with Derron Moose ( ? - ? ). She dwelled in 2004 in Delmont and in 2019 in North Huntingdon, Westmoreland County, PA.

Son Paul Richard "Dicky" Shroyer (1949- ? ) was born on Aug. 22, 1949 in or near Somerset. He married Edith Pritts (1951- ? ) at Deep Creek, MD on Sept. 22, 1964. Her parents were George and Mary (Dugan) Pritts. They had one daughter, Lisa Michelle Shroyer. Paul was in Somerset in 2010.

• Granddaughter Lisa Michelle Shroyer

Daughter Betty "Marlene" Shroyer (1953-2012) was born on March 20, 1953. Her two daughters were Stacey Lynn Shroyer and April Dawn Shroyer. She was joined in holy wedlock with David Lint ( ? - ? ).

• Granddaughter Stacey Lynn Shroyer was joined in wedlock with (?) Leonard. Stacey has contributed valuable content for this biography.

• Granddaughter April Dawn Shroyer

Shroyer reunion in Connellsville, Labor Day 2022

~ Daughter Lucinda "Mae" (Shroyer) Conn ~

Daughter Mae Shroyer (1910-1999) was born on April 29, 1910 in Springfield Township. She was named in part for her maternal grandmother, Lucinda (Harbaugh) Younkin Johnson.

She married Lester "Toad" Conn (Dec. 1, 1906-1966), the son of Edward and Minnie (Hyatt) Conn of Lower Turkeyfoot.

They had 10 known children -- Alvin H. Conn, Naomi "Pearl" Harbaugh Oakman, Jacob Conn, Laura "Dot" Conn, Warren D. "Chub" Conn, Melda Wilson, Bernon "Bun" Conn, Dana Troup, Sandra Kay Fabin, Jacqueline Conn, and Thomas Donald "Tommy" Conn.

Sadly, son Tommy, afflicted with enteritis and chronic diarrhea, died at the tender age of two months, five days on July 31, 1940. The baby was laid to rest in the Jersey Church Cemetery.

Over the years, Mae and Lester were employees of the Beacon Restaurant, the L&N Restaurant and the Somerset Food Pantry. Circa May 1958, he also operated a gasoline filling station carrying the Atlantic brand of fuel. "You could always depend on Toad, if you forgot inspection time, he let you know," said the Draketown: Past & Present book.

Sadly, Lester passed away at the age of 59 on Feb. 25, 1966. Interment was in Jersey Church Baptist Cemetery, with Rev. Chester Henneman preaching the funeral service. Obituaries were printed in the Meyersdale Republican and Somerset Daily American, noting that he was survived by 20 grandchildren.

Mae survived him by more than three decades, and also outlived her daughter Jacqueline, son Thomas and grandson Michael.

The Conns are pictured in the book, Draketown Past & Present, and are mentioned in Reflections: Ursina 1787-1994. Mae also was once profiled in the “Area Personality” feature of the Somerset Daily American, which said that Mae “at 74 displays more energy than some folks half her age.” The article, seen here, also quoted their struggle raising a large brood of children during the Depression:

Was it rough bringing up nine kids? “You aren’t kidding,” says Mae, “it was just really rough. When the Depression was, we had a truck and couldn’t buy gas for it. There were no Food Stamps, unemployment, welfare, nothing. There was the Salvation Army and Red Cross, and that was it.”

Mae passed away at the age of 89 in Somerset Hospital on Oct. 26, 1999. Burial was in the Jersey Baptist Church Cemetery. At her death, reported the Daily American, she was survived by 28 grandchildren, 39 great-grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

Son Alvin H. Conn (1928-2002) was born on Oct. 31, 1928 in Draketown. He was a self-employed carpenter and World War II and Korean War Army veteran. He married Loretta M. Sproul ( ? - ? ), a resident of Ohiopyle, Fayette County. They resided in Confluence and had six children -- Sheryll Hatfield, Teresa Voss, Geraldine Conn, Rebecca Stechschulte, Randall Conn and Gregory Conn. Alvin died in Westmoreland Regional Hospital in Greensburg, PA on Aug. 23, 2002 at the age of 73. Burial was in Greenlawn Cemetery with Pastor James Keslar and Paastor James Sproul leading the funeral services. An obituary in the Daily American said he was survived by 11 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

• Granddaughter Sheryll Conn married (?) Hatfield and lived in Frankfort, OH.

• Granddaughter Teresa Conn married (?) Voss and resided in Bellefontaine, OH.

• Granddaughter Geraldine Conn made her home in Akron, OH.

• Granddaughter Rebecca Conn married (?) Stechschulte. In 2002, they lived in Delaware, OH.

• Grandson Randall Conn lived in Fairview Park, OH.

• Grandson Gregory Conn resided in Marysville, OH.

Daughter Naomi "Pearl" Conn (1930-2008) was born on Jan. 8, 1930 in Lower Turkeyfoot Township. She was married twice. Her first husband was a cousin, James Harold "Hub" Harbaugh (1928- ? ), son of Robert Bacom and Alice Elizabeth (Rugg) (Harbaugh) Jr. They had three daughters -- Brenda Faye Harmon Ahaniz, Rosemary Marie Burkett Fritz, and Mary Jane Harbaugh. Later, after a divorce, she wed Theodore "Ted" Oakman ( ? - ? ) and lived in Somerset and toward the end of her life in Buffalo Mills. Said the Daily American: "She was a retired employee of Gilmour Manufacturing, Somerset and was currently employed at the Somerset Wal-Mart as a greeter, which she loved very much. She also loved bingo, word search puzzles and spending time with her family. She was a member of the First Christian Church." Pearl died at the age of 78 in Somerset Hospital on July 3, 2008. Burial was in Somerset County Memorial Park, with the funeral officiated by Rev. Gerald Deffenbaugh. 

• Granddaughter Brenda Harbaugh married (?) Alaniz and lived in Somerset.

• Granddaughter Rosemary Harbaugh was wedded to Barry Dryburg and resided in Somerset.

• Granddaughter Mary Jane Harbaugh married Roderick Funston and dwelled in Buffalo Mills.

Son Jacob Conn (1932- ? ) was born in about 1932. He married Barbara and elocated to Lorain, OH.

Daughter Laura E. "Dot" Conn (1935- ? ) was born on Oct. 17, 1935 in Draketown. She never married but was greatly beloved by her family. Toward the end of her life, she was admitted to The Patriot in Somerset. She died there at the age of 82 on March 7, 2018. Burial was at the Jersey Baptist Church Cemetery, with Pastors John and Linda Stoner leading the funeral service. In an obituary, the family asked that any memorial contributions be made to the Geiger Church of the Brethren in Friedens.

Son Warren D. "Chub" Conn (1934-2003) was born on July 22, 1934 in Draketown. He served in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War, and was self-employed in Confluence for 31 years. He married Nancy Dwire ( ? - ? ) and had four children -- Keith Conn, Kerry Conn, Jacqueline Miller Coughenour and Sharon Kimmel. Chub died at age 69 on Dec. 16, 2003 in Somerset Hospital. After a funeral offiiciated by Rev. Peter Foreman, he was placed into eternal repose in the Kingwood Odd Fellows Cemetery, and an obituary was printed in the Daily American. In widowhood, Nancy continued to maintain her home in Confluence. In March 2017, she endured the death of her adult daughter Sharon Kimmel.

• Grandson Keith Conn married Colleen and resided in Confluence.

• Grandson Kerry Conn was joined in wedlock with Sheri. In 2003-2019, they lived in Boswell, Somerset County.

• Granddaughter Jacqueline Conn (1959-2019) was born on Aug. 26, 1959 in Confluence, Somerset County, a twin with her sister Sharon. She was a graduate of the West Virginia Career Institute. She appears to have been twice-wed. Her first husband is believed to have been (?) Miller ( ? - ? ). The couple bore several children -- Matthew Miller, Chad Miller and Katie Wass. Later, by 2003, she married (?) Coughenour ( ? - ? ). Her home was in Confluence over the years, and she earned a living as a certified nursing assistant. She eventually became a companion of Jerry Hudson. Jacqueline was a member of the Confluence United Methodist Church and liked art and to read. Sadly, she became ill and was admitted to Henry Clay Villa in Markleysburg, where she died at the age of 60 on Dec. 15, 2019. Pastor Valerie Stark preached the funeral sermon, with the cremains placed into interment in the Kingwood International Order of Odd Fellows Cemetery.

• Granddaughter Sharon Conn (1959-2017) was born on Aug. 26, 1959 in Confluence, Somerset County, a twin with her sister Jacqueline. She was wedded to (?) Kimmel ( ? - ? ). The couple produced two daughters -- Angiel Kimmel and Christina Kimmel. They were members of the Confluence United Methodist Church. Sharon obtained an associate degree in business from the West Virginia Career Institute branch in Uniontown, Fayette County, PA. Sadly, at the age of 57, on March 1, 2017, Sharon died at home in Confluence. Rev. Valerie Stark officiated at the funeral service, followed by burial in the Kingwood Odd Fellows Cemetery. An obituary appearing in the Somerset Daily American noted that she was survived by eight grandchildren.

Daughter Melda Conn (1939- ? ) was born in 1939. As a young unmarried woman, she worked for Bower Cleaners in Confluence. In about July or August 1958, she married Paul R. Wilson (April 14, 1938-2024), son of George and Lulu (Tressler) Wilson of Confluence and stepson of (?) Holliday. A reception was held at her parents' home, "with a large number of friends and relatives attending," said the Somerset Daily American. "The couple received many useful gifts." At the time of marriage, Paul had worked in Cleveland, OH. They produced four children together -- Patricia Stark, Lester P. Wilson, Alan Wilson and Michael Ryan Wilson. Paul was employed for many years by the Carpenters Union Local 432 of Pittsburgh. In 1971, Melda is known to have served as an enumerator for the United States Census in Lower Turkeyfoot. Circa 1994, she hosted a visit to her home in Draketown by the founder of this website. She was a candidate for inspector of elections for Lower Turkeyfoot Township in 2009. Sadly,, at the age of 85, Paul died at home on Jan. 31, 2024. A graveside burial service was conducted at the Jersey Baptist Church Cemetery, by the hand of Rev. Samuel McClintock. An obituary in the Daily American said he was survived by eight grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.  

• Granddaughter Patricia Wilson entered into marriage with Timothy Stark. They make their residence in Fort Hill, Somerset County.

• Grandson Lester P. Wilson joined the U.S. Army. In 1983, he completed a wheeled-vehicle mechanics course at Fort Jackson, SC. Today he dwells in Confluence.

• Grandson Alan Wilson ( ? -living) wed Kay Lynn Younkin ( ? -living), daughter of Gerald Ross and Iris (Kreger) Younkin of the family of Jacob C. and Lucy A. (Weimer) Younkin. They bore one son, Gerald Wilson. The Wilsons resided on the old Frederick Younkin farm in Kingwood and opened their home and private cemetery site to Younkin Reunions of the 1990s. Alan has earned a living as a woodworker. The marriage ended in divorce, with Alan moving to Confluence.

• Grandson Michael Ryan Wilson earned a living with Mekis Construction in 1996. On Sept. 27, 1997, he was united in matrimony with April Marie Peck ( ? - ? ), daughter of John W. and Jeanne A. Peck of Ursina. the nuptials were held at the Church of the Nazarene in Confluence, officiated by Rev. Thomas Charles. The couple was pictured in a wedding story in the Somerset Daily American. At the time, he was employed by Brayman Construction Corporation, while she worked as a clerk in the nearby Normalville (PA) Post Office. The pair's home in 2024 was in Confluence.

Daughter Sandra "Kay" Conn married Ronald Sabin and made their home in Vermillion, OH. 

Son Bernon "Bud" Conn (1946-2015) was born on April 22, 1946 in Confluence. In about 1973, at the age of 27, he was united in wedlock with Linda Nightingale ( ? -living). They were married for 42 years and produced one daughter, Kristy Scarmack. During the Vietnam War, he served in the U.S. Army. Later, he earned a living working at Somerset Hospital and in 1986 was stationed at Fort Balvoir, VA. Sadly, they endured the death of their grandson Michael Scarmack. Bud died on Dec. 28, 2015 at Allegheny General Hospital in Pittsburgh. Funeral services were held at Highland Cemetery in Garrett, Somerset County and led by pastors John and Linda Stoner, with involvement by the Somerset County Honor Guard. An obituary was printed in the Daily American. 

Daughter Dana Conn ( ? - ? ) was born in (?). She married Dennis Troup ( ? - ? ), son of Millard Emerson and Helen Louise (Magill) Troup. They were the parents of Donna Sue Phillippi and Dawn Rena Will. At one point their home was in Bakersville, where they owned a dairy farm. At the death of her mother in 1999, Dana served as executrix of the estate

• Granddaughter Donna Sue Troup ( ? - ? ). She graduated from the Westmoreland County and Allegheny County Community Colleges. She then went on to secure a position as a receptionist with Super City Manufacturing Company Inc. On Sept. 21, 1991, she wed Mark Allen Phillippi ( ? - ? ), son of Ray E. and Nancy (Miller) Phillippi of Somerset. At the time of marriage, backed by an education at the Diesel Institute of America, Mark worked as a mechanic for New Enterprise Stone and Lime Company. Donna in 1999 was active as secretary with the Ladies Auxiliary to the Somerset Veterans of Foreign Wars Post. The couple were in Somerset in 2007.

• Granddaughter Dawn Rena Troup ( ? - ? ). On April 11, 1992, she was joined in holy wedlock with Steven Alan Will ( ? - ? ), son of Robert and Janet Will of Friedens. Their wedding ceremony was officied by Rev. John Guere and held at Bethany United Methodist Church. The couple was pictured in a related story in the Somerset Daily American. The Wills dwelled in Friedens and produced a daughter, Brittany Will. Their daughter Brittany was a member of the Future Farmers of America and was pictured in an October 2013 Daily American article about her many FFA public speaking and leadership activities as well as her plans to attend Allegany College of Maryland.

The late Olive Duff researched the Conn family history and published her findings in the booklet, Moon Genealogy, which is preserved today in the Minerd.com Archives.

Kenneth and Goldie Shroyer

~ Son Kenneth Melvin Shroyer ~

Son Kenneth Melvin Shroyer (1912-1993) was born on Aug. 30, 1912 in Clay Run near Mill Run, Fayette County.

He married a distant Younkin cousin, Goldie Della Basinger (1917-1997), daughter of Alva and Lucartha (Showman) Basinger. They remained wed for 59 years. 

In an interesting twist, Goldie's sister Stella Basinger married a distant double-Miner and double-Younkin cousin, John "Raymond" Miner, son of John Andrew and Susan (Pletcher) Miner. 

Ken and Goldie bore three children -- Kenneth "Dale" Shroyer, Mildred Louise Chrise Swauger and Florence Irene Wilt Couts.

When he and Goldie were first married, their neighbor and cousin Lawson Minerd built two chimneys for their new home in Clay Run. It was constructed across the lane from the former homeplace of Ken's great-grandparents, George A. and Charlotta (Younkin) Younkin. Circa 1993, the old George Younkin homeplace was vacant and surrounded by pine trees, near the trailer where Ken's sister Marie Johnson made her home.

The Shroyers were longtime members of the Maple Summit Church, and Goldie also belonged to the Critchfield Christian and Missionary Alliance Church.

A farmer, Ken was a longtime employee of the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT). He also served for 50 years as a forest fire warden for what is now the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Resources (DER), and in 1992 received a special DER award. He was one of several who jointly purchased the Maple Summit Church when the elders decided to close the congregation. 

Both of his legs were amputated in about 1988.

He was featured in an article in the Connellsville Daily Courier on June 25, 1988, and in a story in the Tribune-Review of Oct. 4, 1992, seen here, headlined “Warden Rekindles Smoke, Memories.” 

On Feb. 6, 1993, he and Goldie graciously hosted a visit to their home by the founder of this website. 

Ken passed away at the age of 81 on Dec. 9, 1993. Burial was in Imel Cemetery, with Rev. Thomas Milford and Rev. David P. Huey co-officiating. An obituary was published in the Somerset Daily American.

Goldie outlived him by four years. She died at age 80 on Sept. 13, 1997.

Son Kenneth "Dale" Shroyer (1936- ? ) was born in about 1936 in Fayette County. He was married to ( ? - ? ). Their three offspring were Melvin Shroyer, Clifford Shroyer and Wendell Shroyer. Sadly, Dale was deceased by 1997.

• Grandson Melvin Shroyer married Ruth.

• Grandson Clifford Shroyer wedded Margie.

• Grandson Wendell Shroyer

Daughter Mildred Louise Shroyer (1941-2021) was born on Sept. 17, 1941 in Mill Run. She was a 1960 graduate of Connellsville High School. Mildred was wed twice in her lifetime and did not reproduce. Her first spouse was Jesse W. "Jess" Chrise Jr. (July 28, 1941-2003), son of Jesse W. and Marion M. (Young Holt) Chrise of Addison Township. The couple tied the knot on Nov. 30, 1964, when both were age 23. In an interesting twist, Jesse's half-sister Marion "Sally" Holt was married to Mildred's distant cousin Jack C. Romesburg of the family of Benjamin F. and Harriet (Younkin) Romesburg. The Chrises lived in nearby Confluence, Somerset County. Jess earned a living with the Laborers Union Local 419 of Somerset. In his free time he belonged to the National Rifle Association, North American Fishing Club, Turkeyfoot Fish and Game Association, Scullton Rod and Gun Club and Somerset Lodge of the Order of Eagles. Sadly, as a patient in Somerset Hospital, Jess passed away at the age of 62 on Oct. 7, 2003. His funeral service was led by Rev. James Monticue, with burial in Imel Cemetery. An obituary appeared in the Somerset Daily American. Mildred's second husband was (?) Swauger ( ? - ? ). She attended the Critchfield Christian and Missionary Alliance Church as well as the Hampton Church of God in Mill Run. She held memberships in the Confluence Fish and Game Club and the Confluence Post of the Veterans of Foreign Wars. Her final years were spent in Mill Run. Sadly, at age 80, she passed away on Nov. 23, 2021 as a patient in UPMC Somerset Hospital. An obituary in the Connellsville Daily Courier said she "was a loving sister and aunt and will be sadly missed but fondly remembered." Pastor Randy Newell and Pastor Robert "Bobby" Miner co-officiated the funeral service. She was laid to rest beside her first husband in Imel Cemetery near the old Younkin-Shroyer homestead.

Daughter Florence Irene Shroyer was twice married. Her first spouse was Kenneth Wilt ( ? - ? ). Later, by 1997, she wed Roy Couts ( ? -2019). Florence has one daughter, Shannon Booth. Sadly, Roy passed away on Dec. 19, 2019. Per his wishes there was no viewing or obituary. Rather, the family donated his body to science.

• Granddaughter Shannon Couts ( ? -living) married Donald Booth. They make their home in Mill Run and are the parents of Allie Booth and Caitlyn Booth. Shannon and her mother have contributed generously to this biography by sharing information and photographs.

Marie (seated) beside William, with siblings Kenneth and Mae Conn

~ Daughter Laura "Marie" (Shroyer) Johnson ~

Daughter Laura "Marie" (Shroyer) Johnson  (1921-2006) was born on June 19, 1921. 

She was united in the bonds of holy matrimony with Roy Ross Johnson (1920-1978), the son of Alvin R. and Effie Jane (Schmuck) Johnson.

They bore a family of four -- Marian "Darlene" Snyder, Kenneth Alvin Johnson, Roy Ross Johnson Jr. and Russell E. Johnson.

The Johnsons resided at New Eagle, Washington County, PA and later near Mill Run. They are mentioned in the book, Chip’s Off the Old Block’s by Kimberly Kay (Ritenour) Gach.

Sadly, Roy died in Connellsville State General Hospital at the age of 58 on April 1, 1978. His obituary was published in the Somerset Daily American. Funeral services were conducted in the Critchfield Churcy by Rev. Robert Becker. 

Tragedy struck the day after Christmas 1991 when their son Russell E. Johnson, a U.S. Navy veteran, was killed in an automobile accident in Saltlick Township. 

Marie's final years were spent in Normalville. She passed into eternity on Dec. 23, 2006, with burial in Imel Cemetery.

Daughter Marian "Darlene" Johnson (1946-2023) was born two days before Christmas 1946 in Mill Run. In 1965, she married Thomas D. Snyder ( ? - ? ). They endured the ups and downs of a remarkable 58 years together. Two daughters of this union were Darlene Chearney and Amy Toth. The Snyders dwelled in Normalville and were members of the Critchfield Christian and Missionary Alliance Church. Said an obituary, she "loved going to Sight and Sound Theater in Lancaster, bingo, and baking and cooking for her family and many other people at gatherings that she attended. She was a former member of E.C.4.W.D.A., and the Fayette County 4 Wheelers." Darlene was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer, epithelioid hemangioendothelioma, and died from its effects on July 13, 2023. Burial was in Normalville Cemetery, following services jointly led by Pastors Robert Miner and Mark Sholtis.

• Granddaughter Darlene Marie Snyder (1965- ? ) was born in 1965. As a child, on her birthdays, she was pictured in the Connellsville Daily Courier. Darlene married Don Chearney and has made her residence in Normalville.

• Granddaughter Amy Snyder wed Scott Toth. The pair has planted themselves in Connellsville.

Son Kenneth Alvin Johnson (1949-2021) was born on April 13, 1949 in Mill Run. In 1968, he wed Wanda Lee Pirl ( ? - ? ). Their marriage held firm over a remarkable 52 years. They are the parents of two -- Kenneth Keith Johnson and Jayme Burnsworth. Circa 1972, the family was in Normalville and in 1978-2023 in Mill Run. Kenneth served the public for many years as a supervisor of Springfield Township. He enjoyed yardwork and watching NASCAR racing. Sadly, Kenneth died on Aug. 3, 2021. Pastor Bobby Miner led the funeral service with interment in Imel Cemetery.

• Grandson Kenneth Keith Johnson married Lori. They dwell in Mill Run.

• Granddaughter Jayme Johnson wed (?) Burnsworth. She too has resided in Mill Run.

Son Roy Ross Johnson Jr. married Audrey in 1970. they lived in Germany in 1978. Later he entered into marital union with Cindy and in 2023 was in Connellsville.

Son Russell Edward Johnson (1957-1991) was born on Dec. 8, 1957 in New Eagle. He was a veteran of the U.S. Navy. He worked at Hidden Valley Resorts and Lichtenfells Nursing of Johnstown, PA. He was age 34 when killed in 1991 in a one-vehicle accident in Saltlick Township, Fayette County.

Copyright © 2001, 2003, 2007-2009, 2013, 2016, 2021, 2023 Mark A. Miner