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William 'Henry' Younkin
(1856-1952)

 

William "Henry" Younkin, 1940

William "Henry" (or "Hen") Younkin was born on June 3, 1856 in or near Addison, Somerset County, the son of Frederick F. and Sarah (Faidley) Younkin.

His wife was Rachel McClintock (1855-1922), daughter of John K. and Mary Ann (Growall) McClintock.

The Younkins were farmers. Circa 1899, they made their home in Addison, Somerset County. At other times, they resided in Upper Turkeyfoot Township, where they were recorded in the United States censuses of 1880 and 1900. By 1910, they had moved to Middlecreek Township, Somerset County, where they spent the remainder of their lives. 

They produced 11 children -- Mary Ann "Annie" Younkin, Etta Savon Snyder, Alice Jane Ream, John Frederick Younkin, William "Wesley" Younkin, Minnie Belle Barkman, Margaret E. Friedline, Charles E. Younkin, Ross Milton Younkin, Clark Melvin Younkin and Martha "Mattie" Trapp. 

 

With a great-great grandbaby

Sadly, daughter Annie died at the age of three on Nov. 4, 1878, with burial in the Church of God cemetery in Kingwood.

When the federal census was enumerated in 1880, Henry and Rachel and their daughters Ettie and Alice lived on a farm in Upper Turkeyfoot Township, with 16-year-old Mary Romesburg and 25-year-old Marcellus Sechler living under their roof as servants and farm laborers. Among their neighbors were Ross and Catharine Heinbaugh, Aaron and Susan Meyers and Benjamin W. and Hannah Snyder. 

The 1900 census of Upper Turkeyfoot shows that by that time, Henry and Rachel had been married for 27 years, and that of the 11 children she had borne, 10 were alive, with the youngest just two years of age. Next door dwelled 50-year-old Belinda (King) Younkin, widow of ill-fated Freeman Younkin (of the family of Rev. Herman Younkin), who had been killed in a railroad accident two years before.

Tragedy shook the family in mid-August 1912, when their married son Wesley, working in the woods near Humbert, was struck and killed by a bolt of lighting. A news article reported the awful details: 

Mr. Younkin and seven other men were removing a sawmill, when they were overtaken by a furious storm. Rain descended in torrents and the men hurriedly collected under a wagon, but they were soon drenched and Mr. Younkin left his comrades and went under a tree. The storm broke with great violence, accompanied by loud peals of thunder and lurid flashes of lightning, and Mr. Younkin soon afterward met his doom. The bolt struck him on the left shoulder and described a diagonal course across his body, paralyzing the action of his heart. The men saw him suddenly fall to the ground and hastened to his side, but found his body limp and lifeless.

 

Kingwood Lutheran Cemetery

During the decade of the 1900s, Henry and Rachel moved to a farm in nearby Middlecreek Township, Somerset County. The census of 1910 shows Henry as a farmer, with assistance from his sons Ross and Clark as laborers. on the "home farm."

Sadly, Rachel passed away at the age of 66 years, 10 months and seven days on April 10, 1922. She was laid to rest in the Kingwood Lutheran Cemetery. The cause of her passing is not known, and her death certificate has not yet been located.

Henry survived his wife by three decades. During that time, their offspring multiplied in number significantly.

 

Henry's obituary, 1952

On Aug. 18, 1940, Henry attended the very last Younkin National Home-Coming Reunion, held at the Kingwood Odd Fellow Grove, and was pictured in the final edition of the Younkin Family News Bulletin, billed as "one of our oldest citizens." 

Toward the end of his life, Henry became blind. That did not prevent him from attending family dinners and other clan gatherings. At one point, two of his great-granddaughters brought their babies to his home and to have photographs of him holding the infants. He was residing at that time with his married daughter, Alice (Younkin) Ream, who provided continuing care for him. Alice spoke to her father saying, "Now Pop, I'm going to put this baby in your arms and take your picture."

He died at the remarkable age of 95 on March 12, 1952, at the home of his son Ross in New Centerville. He joined his wife in burial in Kingwood, with Rev. J.L. Hull leading the services. 

At his death, the Daily American noted that among his survivors were an eye-popping 44 grandchildren, 75 great-grandchildren and 28 great-great grandchildren.

Henry and Rachel's brood, June 1912, L-R: John, Margaret, Minnie, Wesley, Mattie, Ross, Clark, Charles and Alice. Daughter Etta was the only one missing. Just 2 months later, son Wesley was killed by a bolt of lightning.

 

~ Daughter Etta Savon (Younkin) Snyder ~

Daughter Etta Savon Younkin (1876-1973) was born on Sept. 13, 1876 in Kingwood.

She married Charles "Walter" Snyder (1872- ? ), son of Benjamin W. and Hannah Snyder. The ceremony was held on July 2, 1895, led by Rev. A.B. Miller, when she was age 18 and he was 23. At the time of marriage, Charles earned a living as a laborer. 

 

Somerset County 
Memorial Park, where 
legions of Younkins rest

They went on to have seven children -- Minnie Snyder, Frank Snyder, Leora Snyder, Russell D. Snyder, Raymond A. Snyder, Florence Snyder and Hazel Snyder. They made their home in Confluence. 

Etta passed away in Berlin, Somerset County on July 28, 1973, at the age of 96. She was interred in Somerset County Memorial Park. At her death, reported the Daily American, she was survived by 20 grandchildren, 44 great-grandchildren and four great-great grandchildren.

Son Russell Snyder (1905-1976) was born on June 28, 1906 in Paddytown. He married Ethel Whipkey ( ? - ? ) of Rockwood. They had one son, Ray Snyder. Russell died in Meyersdale Hospital at the age of 71 on Aug. 20, 1976. Burial was in the Rockwood Odd Fellows Cemetery, following a funeral officiated by Rev. Don Judy.

Son Raymond A. Snyder (1907-1988) was born on Nov. 4, 1907 in Upper Turkeyfoot. He married Anne Lenhart ( ? - ? ) and lived in Confluence in 1976. They had one daughter, Nancy Yutzy. Raymond was a member of the Lions Club of Confluence, the Confluence United Methodist Church and the Veterans of Foreign Wars. Raymond died in Memorial Hospital in Cumberland, Allegany County, MD on Nov. 14, 1988. His remains were brought back into Pennsylvania and entombed in Addison Cemetery.

Daughter Leora Snyder wed (?) Zimmerman and in the mid-1970s called Somerset home.

Daughter Minnie Snyder married (?) Whatley. They were in Philadelphia in 1976.

Daughter Hazel Snyder wedded (?) Zimmerman. They resided in Berlin, Somerset County.

 

~ Daughter Alice Jane (Younkin) Ream ~

Daughter Alice Jane Younkin (1878-1969) was born on Nov. 13, 1878 in Kingwood. 

At the age of 17, on Christmas Eve 1895, she wed a distant Younkin cousin, 19-year-old Frederick Albert Ream (1876-1958), son of Albert and Barbara Ellen (Dull) Ream. In turn, he was the grandson of Frederick and Margaret "Peggy" (Faidley) Dull (of the family of George and Christina [Younkin] Dull Sr.) and also grandson of Thomas and Hester "Esther" (Stull) Ream (of the family of Thomas and Barbara [Haines] Ream Sr.) Justice of the peace William Zufall officiated. At the time of marriage, Frederick was the ward of guardian Jacob Kreger, and worked as a laborer. 

They lived in the Kingwood area and had six offspring -- Ethel Ream, Myrl Leroy Ream, John Ream, Charles H. Ream, Margaret Faye Romesburg and Ray Ream. 

 

Article about William and Rachel
(McClintock) Younkin - YFNB, Oct. 1990

In an interesting twist, showing the entanglement of Younkin families, after a divorce, Frederick's mother married (and divorced) Civil War veteran Balaam Younkin.

Alice was a member of the Kingwood Church of God and an original member of the Kingwood Rebekah Lodge of the Odd Fellows. 

Frederick passed away in Kingwood at the age of 81 in 1958. 

Alice Jane followed him to the grave 11 years later, on July 29, 1969, just nine days after man first landed on the Moon. Burial was in the Kingwood Odd Fellows Cemetery.

Daughter Margaret "Faye" Ream married a cousin, Albert A. Romesburg (1909- ? ), son of John Harrison and Sarah (Younkin) Romesburg of the family of Rev. Herman and Susanna (Faidley) Younkin. Their residence in the 1960s was in Markleton.

Son Charles H. Ream married a cousin, Pauline Romesburg, daughter of John Harrison and Sarah (Younkin) Romesburg, also of the family of Rev. Herman and Susanna (Faidley) Younkin They lived in Markleton in 1969.

Son Ray Ream married a double Younkin step-cousin, Evanell Rebecca Nicklow (1922-2008), daughter of Harry Freeman and Mollie Belle (Tressler) Nicklow of the family of Freeman and Ellen (Firestone) Nicola. See the Nicklow biography for more.

Son Charles H. Ream (1906-1975) was born on June 30, 1906 in Casselman. He married a cousin, Pauline Romesburg ( ? - ? ), daughter of John Harrison and Sarah "Ella" (Younkin) Romesburg of the family of Rev. Herman and Susanna (Faidley) Younkin Their children were Larry D. Ream and Diana Mark. The Reams made their residence in Markleton, and were members of the Kingwood Grange and Kingwood Church of God. Charles also belonged to the Odd Fellows lodge of Kingwood. He died at age 69, at home, on Oct. 4, 1975. After Rev. Paul Tobias led the funeral service, Charles' remains were placed at rest in the Kingwood Odd Fellows Cemetery.

  • Grandson Larry D. Ream
  • Granddaughter Diana Ream married (?) Mark.

Son Myrl Leroy Ream (1916-1990) was born on Dec. 2, 1916 in Upper Turkeyfoot. He married Lucille A. Byrd ( ? - ? ), and they had these children: Allan J. Ream, Malcolm L. Ream, Judy Ream, John B. Ream and Sally Wrenn. He was a veteran of World War II, serving with the 95th Division, Company F, of the 178th Infantry in Europe. At one time, Myrl managed the Somerset Farm Bureau Cooperative, and retired as manager of the Pennsylvania Cooperative Potato Growers, Inc. He made his home in Hershey, PA in the late 1960s, where he was a member of the Spring Creek Church of the Brethren. Circa 1990, he lived in Palmyra, PA, also known as Campbelltown. He died at age 73 on Nov. 12, 1990. His remains were transported to his old home region for entombment in Somerset County Memorial Park, with Rev. Gerald Deffenbaugh officiating at the funeral service. Myrl's obituary was published in the Somerset Daily American and then reprinted in the Younkin Family News Bulletin (January 1991).

  • Grandson Allan J. Ream
  • Grandson Malcolm L. Ream
  • Granddaughter Judy Ream
  • Grandson John B. Ream
  • Granddaughter Sally Ream wedded (?) Wrenn

 

John F. and Alice Younkin grave, Kingwood

~ Son John Frederick Younkin ~

Son John Frederick Younkin (1881-1939) was born on Feb. 23, 1881 in Kingwood.

As a young adult, he was a farmer. 

John and Alice Rebecca Burroughs (1880-1956) were wed on July 24, 1898 when both were age 17. She was a daughter of Charles and Mary (Hahn) Burroughs of Mt. Pleasant, Westmoreland County, PA and later of Fort Hill, Somerset County. The nuptials were led by justice of the peace A.S. Levy in Ursina. Because they legally were underage, both sets of parents had to sign their consents. 

They resided in Milford Township, Somerset County, and had an astounding 15 children, among them David Clyde Younkin, Martin Joseph Younkin, Melvin H. Younkin, Russell Oscar Younkin, Jesse R. Younkin, Lawrence Carl Younkin, Earl F. "Pug" Younkin, Sheldon R. Younkin, Zelda M. Sanner, Hilbert T. "Hick" Younkin, Agnes Frank, Erma Ruth Brant, Orville B. "Pappy" Younkin, Roy T. Younkin and Kenneth W. Younkin. 

 

Obituary, 1939

Sadly, their sons Sheldon, Kenneth and Roy died as infants.

John  was "engaged in farming practically all his life," reported the Younkin Family News Bulletin (Aug. 10, 1939). They were members of Mt. Zion Evangelical United Brethren Church. 

John and Alice later separated, with Alice moving to Connellsville. John was afflicted with a massive stroke at home and was taken to Somerset Community Hospital, where he died a short time later, at age 58, on July 30, 1939. Burial was in the Church of God Cemetery in Kingwood, with Rev. I.J. Kalp officiating. 

Alice died in the home of her son Melvin in Jenner Township, Somerset County at age 75 on March 16, 1956.

Son Martin Joseph Younkin (1900-1977) was born on Feb. 15, 1900 in Scullton. He wed Cordie Nedrow (1903-1985), daughter of Philip and Mary (Yowler) Nedrow of Casselman. Their three sons were Earl Leo Younkin, Merle "Keith" Younkin and Lawrence Younkin. The family resided in Jerome in 1939 and moved to Stoystown and Friedens, Somerset County. Martin died at age 77 in Berlin, Somerset County, on Dec. 17, 1977. He was laid to rest in Somerset County Memorial Park following a funeral preached by Rev. Rick Kineer. Cordie survived her husband by eight years, and went to live in Crescent City, FL. Suffering from cancer, Cordie died in Crescent City at age 82 on Feb. 10, 1985. At her death, she had 12 grandchildren and "numerous" great-grandchildren, said the Daily American.

  • Grandson Earl Leo Younkin (1920-1999) was born on Oct. 11, 1920 in Casselman, Somerset County. At the age of 24, on July 9, 1945, he was united in matrimony with Wilma Rose Digruttolo (May 20, 1921-2006), daughter of Nicola and Maude (Conn) Digruttolo and a native of Fort Hill, Somerset County. They were the parents of Robert Dale Younkin, Nancy Lee Younkin, Martin Younkin, Marion Younkin and Donna "Joyce" Boden. The family grieved at the death of their daughter Nancy Lee at one day of age on Jan. 5, 1947. The family resided in Rockwood. Sadly, Earl died in 1999. Wilma Rose survived another seven years as a widow, making her home in Casselman. While a patient in Somerset Community Hospital, she died at the age of 85 on June 30, 2006. Rev. Joseph Beer officiated at the funeral service, with interment in Somerset County Memorial Park. In an obituary, the family asked that any memorial donations be made to the American Cancer Society.

Great-grandson Robert Dale Younkin (1947-2020) was born on Jan. 4, 1947 in Somerset. On Oct. 24, 1971, he was joined in wedlock with Sandra Lee Platt ( ? - ? ). The marriage of this couple lasted for 48 years. They dwelled in Casselman and Rockwood and were the parents of Julie Younkin. Robert served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War and was a recipient of the Purple Heart. Later, he worked for 40 years in Somerset for Bender Shoe Company and Abilene Boot Company. When time allowed, he enjoyed the outdoors and liked to golf, and was a member of the Oakbrook Golf Club. Robert died at the age of 73 at Somerset In Touch Hospice House on April 27, 2020. His remains were cremated. An obituary was published in the Somerset Daily American.

Great-grandson Martin Lee Younkin (1958- ? ) was born in 1958, a twin with his brother Marion. He married Sherry Lee Sleasman. He has made a home in Berlin.

Great-grandson Marion Leo Younkin (1958-2013) was born in 1958, a twin with his brother Martin. When he was age 24, on April 17, 1983, he wedded Debra Kay Arnold ( ? - ? ). Their marital union endured for 29 years. They produced two sons -- Dylan Younkin and Bryce Younkin. For four decades, Marion was employed by CVS Distribution Center as a warehouse clerk. In his spare time, he was a member of the Somerset Volunteer Fire Department, scuba team and emergency medical treatment team. He also liked to referee and coach soccer. The Younkins belonged to the Mt. Laurel United Church of Christ. In 2006, their residence was in Somerset. Sadly, Marion was diagnosed with cancer. He was treated at UPMC Montefiore Hospital in Pittsburgh and died at the age of 61 on March 30, 2013. Rev. Dr. Joseph M. Beer officiated at the funeral.

Great-granddaughter Donna Joyce Younkin (1948-1975) was born in 1948. She married (?) Boden. At the age of 26, she succumbed to death on April 15, 1975.

  • Grandson Merle "Keith" Younkin (1923-1994) was born in 1923. He made his home in Vermillion, OH.
  • Grandson Lawrence "Larry" Younkin lived in Stoystown, Somerset County.

 

Melvin and Viola's grave, Kingwood

Son Melvin H. Younkin (1901-1979) was born on Nov. 3, 1901. On March 15, 1924, at the age of 23, he 19-year-old married Viola F. Rupp (1905-1986). She was the daughter of Milton W. and Vesta Bell (Yowler) Rupp of Black Township near Rockwood. They had three children -- Wayne Younkin, LaVerne Singo and Phyllis Benedict. The family belonged to the Jenner Grace Brethren Church. Melvin was a coal miner and member of the United Mine Workers of America, Local 1742, while Viola was employed by the Hoffman Garment Factory in Boswell, Somerset County. On March 15,1979, they celebrated their 55th wedding anniversary. Sadly, Melvin passed away on June 19, 1979. Viola lived for another seven years, and moved into the home of her daughter and son in law, LaVerne and Oran Singo, in North Tonawanda, NY. She died there on Sept. 12, 1986, at age 80. Her remains were returned to Somerset County for interment in the Odd Fellows Cemetery in Kingwood. Their grave marker is inscribed, "Together Forever."

  • Grandson Wayne Younkin married Marjorie Huffman and in 1979 dwelled in Buffalo, NY. 
  • Granddaughter LaVerne Younkin was wedded to Oran Singo and made her home in North Tonawanda, NY.
  • Granddaughter Phyllis Younkin was united in marriage with Steve Benedict. In 1979, their residence was in DeLand, FL.

Son Russell Oscar Younkin (1903-1967) was born on Nov. 15, 1903 in Upper Turkeyfoot Township. He was united in wedlock with Hazel Catherine Pritts (1906-1970). Their three children were Calvin R. "Junior" Younkin, Hilbert D. Younkin and Vera Younkin.  For 31 years, he earned a living as a coal miner for United States Steel Corporation. The Younkins are known to have resided in Flint, MI in 1928 and later returned to Western Pennsylvania, making their home in Connellsville in 1956. Russell eventually relocated to Kentucky, where their married daughter Vera was living, and in the mid-1960s resided at 5405 Armsmere in Louisville, KY. He was a member of Fern Creek Baptist Church. Sadly, as a patient in Kentucky Baptist Hospital, he died at the age of 63 on Oct. 4, 1967. An obituary was printed in the Louisville Courier Journal, which said he was survived by a bakere's dozen grandchildren. The remains were brought back to southwestern Pennsylvania for burial in Green Ridge Memorial Park near Connellsville. Hazel outlived her spouse by three years and succumbed in 1970.

  • Grandson Calvin R. "Junior" Younkin (1926-2016) was born on April 23, 1926 in Indian Head, Fayette County. He served in Europe during World War II with the rank of sergeant. When he was 22 years of age, on Jan. 31, 1949, he was joined in matrimony with Beryl Sparks ( ? - ? ), daughter of Jesse Reed and Evelyn (Miller) Sparks. They produced five offspring -- Geary W. Younkin, Brenda Gearhart, Sharon Young, Randy Younkin and Amy Hiltabidel Baglio. The couple lived in Indian Head, PA in 1967 and later in Normalville. Over the years, Calvin worked in carpentry and belonged to the Pittsburgh Carpenters local union 2274. They were members of the Millertown Community Church. The family endured the heartache of the untimely death of son-in-law Clifford Neal Hiltabidel in 2006. Sadly, Calvin died at the age of 90 at home in Normalville on Dec. 4, 2016. Interment was in Mt. Nebo Cemetery in Champion, Fayette County. An obituary appeared in the Connellsville Daily Courier.

Great-grandson Geary W. Younkin ( ? -living) married Mari McClain ( ? -living). They have lived in Colorado Springs, CO, where Mari has been an executive chef with Sodexo and Cuisine Contemporaine. They are the parents of Patrick "Pat" Younkin and Bryce Younkin. Son Patrick wedded Shannon Bostwick of the family of Everett E. and Mabel Henrietta (Swearingen) Ewing.

Great-granddaughter Brenda Younkin wedded Bruce Gearhart and reside in Mount Pleasant, Westmoreland County, PA.

Great-granddaughter Sharon Younkin was joined in matrimony with Donald Young. They dwell in Guysville, OH.

Great-grandson Randy Younkin was united in marriage with a double cousin, Robbie Liston, daughter of Ora and Norma K. (Harbaugh) Liston of the family of Oakey David and Annie "Gertrude" (Shroyer) Harbaugh. See the Harbaugh biography for more.

Great-granddaughter Amy Younkin (1963- ? ) has been twice married. Her first spouse was Clifford Neal Hiltabidel (June 13, 1958-2006), a distant cousin and the son of Vernon Royce and Mary Marlene (Miner) Hiltabidel of the family of Ralph and Mary "Leola" (Skinner) Miner of Mill Run. After Clifford's death in 2006, Amy wedded a second time to Thomas Baglio ( ? - ? ). They live in Somerset.

  • Grandson Hilbert D. "Hick" Younkin (1928-2017) was born on Feb. 19, 1928 in Flint, MI. He and his parents relocated back to their home region of Connellsville, Fayette County, PA. There, he married Bernadine Trump ( ? - ? ). The couple produced four sons -- Dane Younkin, Douglas Younkin, David Younkin and Donald Younkin. During World War II, Hilbert served in the U.S. Army. He spent 38 years of employment with Anchor Hocking Glass in South Connellsville, from which he eventually retired. Sadly, they suffered the untimely death of their son Dane of Indiana, PA. Toward the end of his life, Hilbert was admitted to Scottdale Manor in Scottdale, PA. There, at the age of 89, he passed away on May 22, 2017. Pastor Lee Maley -- of the family of Martha (Mayle) Mayle of Philippi, WV -- officiated at the funeral service, followed by interment in Normalville Cemetery, with military rites performed by the American Legion Post 301 and the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 21. Their son Douglas married Linda Miller and dwelled in Connellsville; son David lived in Connellsville; and son Donald wed Sandy Opalinski and resided in Scottdale.

Great-grandson Dane Younkin was deceased by 2019.

Great-grandson Douglas Younkin (1951-2019) was born on May 4, 1951 in Connellsville. He wedded Linda Miller ( ? -living), and their union endured for 47 years until the separation of death. They dwelled in Connellsville and bore a daughter, Jennifer Mickulicz. Douglas was employed for many years by Premier Gas Line as a lineman. He was an outdoorsman and liked to fish and hunt. They were members of Mt. Olive Church. Douglas became seriously ill and spent his final time on earth as a resident of Harmon House in Mount Pleasant. He succumbed there at the age of 68 on Aug. 8, 2019. Again, the family turned to Pastor Lee Maley to preach the funeral sermon.

Great-grandson David Younkin made his home in 2019 in Farmington, Fayette County.

Great-grandson Donald Younkin was joined in marriage with Sandy. They resided in Scottdale, PA in 2019.

  • Granddaughter Vera Younkin was born in Flint, MI. She wed N.A. Meyer/Myers ( ? - ? ). The pair resided in Fern Creek, KY in 1967. In 2017, their home was in Louisville, KY.

Son Jesse R. Younkin (1906 -1966) was born on Aug. 28, 1906 in Somerset County. He lived in Johnstown, Cambria County in 1939. He married Irene Marion Phillippi (1907-1992), daughter of John and Sadie (Knopsnyder) Phillippi of Rockwood. Circa 1926, they lived in Acosta, Somerset County. They were members of the Rockwood Brethren Church and later made their home in Ligonier, Westmoreland County, PA, where they operated Rene's Diner. They had four children: Velma Muir, Jerry E. Younkin, Dale M. Younkin Sr. and Arden J. Younkin. Jesse passed away at the age of 59 on Feb. 27, 1966 in Ligonier. After Jesse's death, Irene carried on the business. She died in Latrobe Area Hospital on April 29, 1992. She was laid to rest in Ligonier Valley Cemetery, following funeral services led by Rev. Robert Parker.

  • Granddaughter Velma Younkin (1927-2008) was born the day after Christmas in 1927. On April 23, 1946, she married Earl L. Muir (Dec. 18, 1927-2006), son of Ray and Ella (Ray) Muir. Theywere the parents of Judy Muir and Earl Ray Muir. Over the span of 45 years, Earl owned and operated his own business, Muir's Service. They were longtime members of the Fort Palmer Presbyterian Church, where he was an elder and trustee. Earl passed away the day after Christmas 2006 on his wife's birthday. Rev. Jim Tomb officiated at the funeral, with an obituary printed in the Blairsville (PA) Dispatch. She lived for another two years and died on Nov. 4, 2008. Burial was in Fort Palmer Cemetery in Ligonier, Westmoreland County.
  • Grandson Gerald E. "Jerry" Younkin (1926-2003) was born on July 29, 1926 in Acosta, Somerset County. During World War II, he served in the U.S. Navy. He wedded Dorothy Compton in 1986. He succumbed in 2003.
  • Grandson Dale M. Younkin Sr. (1931-2019) was born on April 4, 1931 in Rockwood. He married Lois J. McGraw (March 10, 1932-2019), daughter of Blair and Margaret Larue (Robinson) McGraw and a native of Robinson, PA. The couple resided in Ligonier, Westmoreland County, PA and produced these offspring -- Dale M. Younkin Jr., Karen Younkin and Raymond B. Younkin. At the end, they both were patients at Meadow View Care Center, in Berlin, Somerset County, and Dale and Lois died six weeks apart. His passing occurred on Oct. 28, , 2019, while hers' was on Nov. 27, 2019. Rev. Dr. J. Paul McCracken officiated at their respective funerals, with interment in Ligonier Valley Cemetery. Obituaries were printed in the Greensburg Tribune-Review.
  • Grandson Arden J. Younkin was in Schenectady, NY in 2019.

Son Lawrence "Carl" Younkin (1907-1969) was born on Nov. 9 or 19, 1907 at Fort Hill, Somerset County. He was a laborer and circa 1935-1939 resided in Johnstown, Cambria County, PA. In early adulthood, he and friends have wandered through the country, calling themselves hobos. He was tall and had dark hair, and a daughter recalled that he "was missing a finger or two." At the age of 27, on Jan. 10, 1936, he married 26-year-old Laverne Edna Johnson (1910- ? ), daughter of John W. and Emma (Geary) Johnson. Rev. Herman W. Kalbrink officiated at the ceremony held in Somerset. The couple moved to Michigan and apparently settled in Genesee County. They divorced in Genesee on Nov. 12, 1943. Later, Carl married or became a companion of Marion Anastasia Dolan ( ? - ? ). They produced five known children, James L. Younkin, Dennis Younkin, Patricia Ann Wesener, Mary Alice Younkin and Robert Younkin. They divorced or broke up and the youngest son, Robert, was given up for adoption. In 1953-1956, Carl dwelled in Flint, MI, and in October 1953 traveled back to Somerset County with his son Dennis to visit with his sister and brother in law Zelda and Charles Sanner, nephew Everett Sanner and his daughter Vicki, brother Hilbert Younkin and his son Chester, and brother and sister in law Martin and Cordie Younkin. Their visit was reported in the gossip columns of the Somerset Daily American. Circa 1968, he resided in Akron, Stark County, OH, while his former wife Laverne maintained a home in Hollidaysburg, Blair County, PA. Toward the end of his life, as he was dying, Carl's sons James and Dennis and 15-year-old daughter Patricia came to visit, the only time the daughter remembered meeting him. Carl died at age 61 on Sept. 29, 1969, in Cleveland. His remains were returned to Somerset County for interment in the Odd Fellows Cemetery in Kingwood.

  • Grandson James L. Younkin ( ? - ? )
  • Grandson Dennis Younkin ( ? - ? )
  • Granddaughter Patricia Ann Younkin ( ? - ? ) wed (?) Wesener ( ? - ? ).
  • Granddaughter Mary Alice Younkin ( ? - ? )
  • Grandson Robert Younkin ( ? - ? )

Son Earl "Pug" Younkin (1909-1973) was born on Sept. 18, 1909. He married Elizabeth Heiple ( ? - ? ). They did not reproduce. Circa 1939, Pug lived in South Carolina. He was a veteran of World War II, and later returned to Somerset. He worked as a truck driver, was a member of the Teamsters Local 377 of Youngstown, OH and was employed by Interstate Truck Service of Wheeling, WV. He died at age 64 on March 9, 1973. Burial was in Somerset County Memorial Park.

Daughter Zelda M. Younkin (1912-1980) was born on Nov. 2, 1912 in Middlecreek Township. She wed Charles R. "Skinny" Sanner (1900-1979). Bride and groom were a dozen years apart in age. They lived in the Markleton area and together bore a brood of eight children -- Faye Compton, Everett Elwood Sanner, Earl Dean Sanner, Evelyn E. Wirsing, J. Darl Sanner, Alice Carpenter, Peter Sanner and Terry Sanner. They were members of the Mt. Zion Methodist Church, and Zelda was active with the Rebekah Lodge of the Odd Fellows of Kingwood. At some point in time, Zelda and Charles dictated their personal family history to their granddaughter Vickie (Sanner) Olwin Hester, who later wrote their story in the book 'Mongst the Hills of Somerset. Charles died at age 79 in 1979. Zelda only outlived her spouse by a year. At the age of 67, she died in Siemon Nursing Home in 1980. Rev. Edd Myers officiated at her funeral. The Somerset Daily American reported that her survivors included 21 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

Ursina, PA, early 1900s 
  • Granddaughter Faye Sanner ( ? - ? ) was born in (?). She married Leonard Compton (Jan. 30, 1926-2021), son of R. Stanley and Erma (Tressler) Compton. Two offspring born to this union were Dr. Gary Compton and Glenda Johnson. Leonard served in the U.S. Navy during World War II. For years, the couple lived near Markleton and belonged to the Kingwood Church of God. Leonard earned a living with the Western Maryland Railroad and Westvaco. He was very active in the community -- with memberships in the Ursina post of the American Legion, Somerset lodge of the Masons, Mountaineers and Wheelers and Dealers Square Dancers. He liked to hunt and for 23 years volunteered his time with the New Centerville Farmers and Threshermens Jubilee. Later in life, they moved to Rest Assured Living Center of Meyersdale. Sadly, at the age of 95, Leonard died on Oct. 17, 2021. Rev. Jim Monticue led the funeral service, with interment in the Kingwood Odd Fellows Cemetery.

Great-grandson Dr. Gary Compton married Brenda and has lived in Addison, PA.

Great-grandson Glenda Compton wed Steve Johnson. In 2021, the Johnsons were in Markleton.

  • Grandson Everett Elwood Sanner (1931-1992) was born on May 2, 1931. He entered into marriage with a cousin, Faye Gertrude Younkin (Feb. 22, 1933-2004), daughter of Charles Milton and Grace Elizabeth Alma (Beachy) Younkin of the family of William Lincoln and Margaret (Nicola) Younkin. See the Younkin biography for more.
  • Grandson Earl "Dean" Sanner (1933-1996) was born on July 5, 1933 in Upper Turkeyfoot Township. He served in the U.S. Armed Forces during the Korean War and received training at Camp Gordon, GA. He married Janet Henry ( ? - ? ). The couple produced two daughters -- Kathy Younkin and Barbara Raley. They dwelled in Acosta, Somerset County and later in Orlando, FL. Later, Earl was joined in wedlock with Mary Ann Bleehash ( ? - ? ). They did not reproduce. Dean died in Daytona Beach's Halifax Hospital at the age of 62 on Feb. 18, 1996. His remains were brought back to Pennsylvania for burial in Somerset County Memorial Park, with Rev. John Snyder officiating. The Somerset Daily American published an obituary. Mary Ann is believed to still have been living in 2020.

Great-granddaughter Kathy Sanner wedded a cousin, Dale M. Younkin Jr., son of Dale M. amd Lois J. (McGraw) Younkin Sr. who are elsewhere in this biography. Their son Todd has contributed material for this website.

  • Granddaughter Evelyn E. Sanner (1935-2020) was born on Aug. 19, 1935 in Markleton. She was wedded to a cousin, Charles "Donald" Wirsing (July 8, 1934-2002), son of Franklin E. and Ella Fern (Colflesh) Wirsing of Harnedsville of the family of Rev. Herman and Susanna (Faidley) Younkin. They made their home in Confluence RD 1 for many years. Their children were Patricia R. Younkin, Dawn R. Walters and Susan R. Deal. Reported the Somerset Daily American, "He was a veteran of the U.S. Army and retired from Somerset County Job Service after 30 years employment. He also liked to farm. Member of the Ursina American Legion Post 946 and the Harnedsville United Methodist Church. He was president of Younkin Cemetery Association [and] a trustee of the Crossroads Cemetery." Evelyn earned a living through her work at the Somerset Pajama Factory and at the YMCA's Camp Soles. Sadly, Donald died in Johnstown's Memorial Medical Center at the age of 67 on Jan. 6, 2002. His remains were placed into repose in Addison Cemetery, with Rev. Timothy Gosnell preaching the funeral sermon. Evelyn survived another 18 years as a widow. She succumbed to the angel of death at the age of 85, at home, on Dec. 4, 2020. Rev. Dean Hay -- of the family of Amanda (Younkin) Hechler -- preached the funeral sermon, with burial following in Addison Cemetery. An obituary was printed in the Somerset Daily American.

Great-granddaughter Patricia R. Wirsing (1959-living) was born in 1959. In young womanhood she was employed in the Somerset County District Justice office in Confluence. On Jan. 29, 1983, she was united in holy matrimony with a double cousin, Michael Allen Younkin (1963-living), son of Curtis Franklin and Patricia (Silbaugh) Younkin of Glen Burnie, MD and Garrett, IN, of the family of Rev. Herman and Susanna (Faidley) Younkin. The ceremony was held in the United Methodist Church of Addison, officiated by Rev. Aimee Twigg, and announced on the pages of the Somerset Daily American. The couple's only known child was Chelsea Beth Raum. Michael, a graduate of Glen Burnie High School, was serving at the time with the U.S. Navy. Circa 1981, he helped commission the guided missile cruiser USS Hue City and in 1983 was a gunner's mate on the USS Texas. Circa 1986, at the birth of their daughter, they were in Washington State. The family dwelled in 2002 in Virginia Beach, VA. After a divorce, she moved to Friendsville, MD, while Michael stayed in Virginia Beach. In time she relocated back to Confluence and dwells on the Wirsing homestead on Hogback Ridge. Former husband Michael married again on April 5, 2015 to Beth Neydon ( ? -living) of Virginia Beach. Daughter Chelsea (1986-living) was born in 1986 in Washington State. On March 28, 2020, she was united in matrimony with Andrew Raum (1985-living), a native of Oregon County, IL. They have established a home in Wilmington, NC, where she is a sales training manager for a contract research organization and he a member of the U.S. Navy.

Great-granddaughter Dawn R. Wirsing wedded Charles Walters (March 31, 1959-2021), son of James A. and Theresa (Zappone) Walters of Waynesburg, PA. Together, they produced a family of two sons -- Michael Walters and James C. Walters. The couple resided for years in Confluence. Charles was a graduate of Carmichaels (PA) High School and California University of Pennsylvania. At one point in time he served in the U.S. Air Force. Said the Somerset Daily American, "Chuck was a past President, EMT, and volunteer with the Crucible Volunteer Fire Department, a volunteer with Tri-County Toys for Tots, a volunteer with the Greene County Special Olympics, and a teacher at Turkeyfoot Valley Area Schools for 26 years, where he impacted many students’ lives and was named Teacher of the Year for the 2012-13 school year... Chuck was also an avid marathon runner and ran over 120 marathons, including 17 Boston Marathons, 16 consecutively, the New York Marathon, Philadelphia Marathon, and the Pittsburgh Marathon among others. He was an animal lover, an ardent fan of the Cleveland Indians, the Pittsburgh Steelers, and the Cleveland Browns." Sadly, the 62-year-old Charles died in Pittsburgh's UPMC Mercy Hospital on Dec. 1, 2021. Distant cousin Rev. Dean Hay Jr., of the family of William Wallace and Amanda (Younkin) Hechler, presided over the funeral service. Interment of the remains was in the sacred soil of Addison Cemetery. In a Daily American obituary, the family asked that any memorial donations be made to the Confluence Volunteer Fire Department.

Great-granddaughter Susan R. Wirsing was twice married. Her first spouse was Paul Deal Jr. They lived in Confluence in 2002. Her second husband was Alan Guard. Their home in 2020 was in Friendsville,MD.

  • Grandson J. Darl Sanner ( ? -2014) was born in (?). In about 1956, he was united in wedlock with Virginia C. Henry (June 3, 1939-2017), daughter of Oscar and Betty (Spangler) Henry. They remained together for 58 years until Darl's passing. The couple produced two sons -- Michael Sanner and Charlie Sanner. The Sanners lived in Somerset where they were members of St. Peter's Church. Darl worked over the years as an automobile mechanic and a construction worker. Among the projects he helped build were the Kinzua Dam and the McNally Bridge along Route 219. Virginia was employed by Somerset Community Hospital as a telephone switchboard operator. He loved to hunt, fish and work in his garden, while she enjoyed dancing and playing cards. Sadly, Jay died in 2014. Virginia survived him by three years and went to live in Siemong Lakeview Manor. She passed away there at the age of 78 on Sept. 5, 2017. Father Daniel O'Neill led the funeral service followed by interment in the Kingwood Odd Fellows Cemetery.
  • Granddaughter Alice Sanner married Ronald "Ron" Carpenter and relocated to Xenia, OH. They were in Xenia in 1996. She was deceased by 2020.
  • Grandson Peter "Pete" Sanner wedded Nancy and resided in Rockwood and Scullton.
  • Grandson Terry Lee Sanner (1949-2004) was born on Jan. 27, 1949 in Confluence. In about 1968, at the age of 19, he married Patricia Walker ( ? - ? ), daughter of Wilkis and Emeline Walker. They remained together for 36 years. Their children were Corleen Sanner, Kelly Carr and Jason Sanner. Reported the Somerset Daily American, "He was formerly employed by Gribble Transport as a truck mechanic supervisor, and earlier, Tom Moran Trucking, as a coal truck driver. He was a member of the Mount Zion United Methodist Church, Markleton. He was a Pennsylvania Forest Fire Warden for six years and has been First Assistant Truck Foreman and Firefighter for the New Centerville & Rural Fire Co. for the past 25 years. He was an active member of the company and held several Line Offices in the past. He served 9½ years for Laurel Highland Fire Equipment as chief mechanic, servicing fire trucks in Somerset, Fayette, Westmoreland and Bedford counties. He enjoyed John Deere tractors, Mac trucks, hunting and playing kickball with the grandchildren." Stricken with cancer, he died a short time afterward at the age of 55 on Sept. 28, 2004. Rev. James Monticue officiated at the funeral service and burial at the Rockwood IOOF Cemetery. The widowed Patricia was still living circa 2020.

 

L-R: Sanner brothers Everett, Peter, Dean, Terry and Darl. Courtesy Vickie Olwin Hester.

 

Son Hilbert T. "Hick" Younkin (1914-1986) was born on Nov. 27, 1914 in Middlecreek Township. His home in 1939 was in Pittsburgh. He served in World War II and wed Dorothy M. Rush, daughter of Harry and Minnie (Romesburg) Rush. The Younkins had four sons: Chester Younkin, Barry Younkin, Michael Younkin and Brian Younkin. Hick worked for General Refractories Company of Fort Hill, Somerset County, for 37 years. The family is said to have resided in the former home of cousin Almira (Trimpey) Gerhard, a structure ordered from the Sears Roebuck catalogue, and arriving in pieces needing to be assembled. They were members of the Messiah Lutheran Church of New Centerville. Hick died at age 71 on Aug. 6, 1986, with burial in Somerset County Memorial Park.

 

  • Grandson Chester Younkin made his residence in 1986 in Ellicott City, MD.

 

  • Grandson Barry Younkin dwelled in Somerset.

 

  • Grandson Michael Younkin lived in Pittsburgh.

 

  • Grandson Brian Younkin made his home in Markleton.

Daughter Agnes Rachel Younkin (1917-2002) was born on Nov. 30, 1917. She was married at least three times. In 1939, she was wedded to (?) Pritts and lived at home with her parents. She eventually married (?) Kimmel and produced a son, Gerald Kimmel. they lived in Ravenna, OH in 1956 where she was emploed in the Evenflo factory and belonged to St. Paul's Lutheran Church. Her home was in Kansas in 1980. Later still, she wed (?) Frank and was in Deland, FL circa 1988. While in Deland, she joined the First Christian Church. She died in Florida at the age of 84 on June 3, 2002. She rests for eternity in Somerset County Memorial Park.

  • Grandson Gerald Kimmel made his home in Florida.

 

L-R: Zelda Sanner, Agnes Frank and Irma Ruth Brant. Courtesy Vickie Olwin Hester.

 

Daughter Irma Ruth Younkin (1919-2006) was born on April 5, 1919 in Upper Turkeyfoot Township. She was united in holy matrimony with John Parker Brant ( ? -1984). They made their home in Ravenna, OH and had two sons -- Allen Brant and Telford Brant. Irma worked as a packer for many years at Packard Electric in Ravenna, a position from which she retired. They were members of the Grace United Methodist Church. Sadly, John died on May 18, 1984. Irma outlived him by 22 years. Later in life, she returned to Somerset. She died in Somerset Hospital on Feb. 28, 2006 at the age of 86. Rev. Eric Raygor officiated at her funeral service, followed by burial in Somerset County Memorial Park. An obituary was printed in the Somerset Daily American.

 

  • Grandson Allen Brant lived in Somerset.

 

  • Grandson Telford Brant married Betty Engle. They made their home in Cochranton.

Son Orville B. "Pappy" Younkin (1920-1988) was born on July 2, 1920 in Milford Township. Circa 1939, he made his home in Pittsburgh. He wed Lorraine (Knopsnyder) Fitzsimmons in about 1941. They resided in Friedens, Somerset County, and had three children -- David Timothy "Tim" Younkin, Linda Ohler and Lynn Younkin. Orville served in the U.S. Army during World War II and was a longtime truck driver. He died at age 68 on Oct. 11, 1988, with burial in Somerset County Memorial Park.

 

  • Grandson David Timothy "Tim" Younkin (1934-2015) was born on April 26, 1945 in Somerset. In about 1964, at the age of 31, he was united in marriage with Bonnie Lauer ( ? -living). They remained married for 51 years. The couple resided in Friedens, Somerset County and produced two children -- Mark Younkin and Tammy Ferchalk. After graduation from high school, Tim served in the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam War. Following his father's occupation, he earned a living as a truck driver. Tim passed away at In Touch Hospice House in Somerset at the age of 70 on Sept. 28, 2015. His remains were placed into eternal repose in Somerset County Memorial Park.

 

  • Granddaughter Linda Sue Younkin (1948-2015) was born on Nov. 7, 1948 in Somerset. She married Earl "Jim" Ohler ( ? - ? ). They made their home in Garrett, Somerset County and had two children -- Brian Ohler and Melanie Ryman. Linda worked at Gilmour Manufacturing and retired from this employment. She survived her husband by some years and died on March 24, 2015 at the age of 66 at Johnstown's Memorial Medical Center.

 

  • Grandson Lynn G. Younkin (1952-2006) was born on Aug. 27, 1952 in Somerset. He had two children -- Chad Younkin and Lori Ann Nist. Lynn enjoyed hot rod and stock car racing. In about 1989, he married Gwynne (Bonnar) Tressler ( ? - ? ), who was divorced from Lynn's distant cousin Donald D. Tressler, son of Dwight and Edna (Gary) Tressler of the family of Jacob and Minnie Edna (Miner) Gary. Gwynne brought three stepchildren to the second marriage -- Mark Tressler, Michael Tressler and Jamie Tressler. Lynn and Gwynne lived in Friedens, Somerset County and were together for 17 years until the separation of death. He enjoyed following the National Hot Rod Association and NASCAR racing. Sadly, Lynn died at age 54 at home in Friedens on Nov. 6, 2006. His remains were interred in Somerset County Memorial Park following a funeral service preached by Rev. Sam Coughenour. An obituary was published in the Somerset Daily American.

 

Wesley Younkin

~ Son William "Wesley" Younkin ~

Son William "Wesley" Younkin (1884-1912) was born on June 7, 1884 in or near Kingwood. He grew up on the family farm, and in 1900 worked at age 15 as a farm laborer.

He is said to have produced a son with Mary Ohler, with whom he was not married, and the son was named was James Arthur Younkin. (Mary later married Bruce Pyle.) 

On June 8, 1904, at the age of 20, Wesley married 21-year-old Luna Viola Kimmel (1883-1944), daughter of William J. and San Francisco "Frances" (Will) Kimmel of near Trent, Somerset County. 

 

Obituary, 1912

They had five children -- Naomi Fern Knepper, Lloyd William Younkin, Kenneth Leroy Younkin, Ray Alvin Younkin and Paola Younkin. 

For a year, they lived in Rockwood where Wesley was employed as an engine watchman at the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad yards. They then moved back to Humbert where Wesley obtained work at the Mecasce lumber mill. 

After his tragic, senseless death at the age of 28, his funeral was held in the Kingwood Church of God, led by Rev. W.J. Umstead, followed by burial in the nearby Lutheran cemetery. At Wesley's demise, a newspaper said he "was a good citizen and an industrious man." His departure left Luna at home with five young children, including the newborn Paola. A marker was placed at his grave, in the shape of a log, symbolic of his death. 

Another monument-type cairn, a vertical shaft of stone with the word "YOUNKIN" running sideways top to bottom, was placed at the site of his death, and was a stop on the Younkin Reunion-East driving tour circa 1996. Luna later resided in Harnedsville, Somerset County. 

Luna married again to teamster Jonas Earl Butler (1893-1960), son of McClellan and Eliza (Folk) Butler of Keyser Ridge, MD. They united themselves in wedlock on Oct. 21, 1914, when she was 31 and he 21, an age gap of a decade. They resided in Grantsville, MD. She died in Harnedsville on March 21, 1944, at the age of 60. She is believed to be buried in the Oak Grove Mennonite Church Cemetery on Negro Mountain in Garrett County, MD. 

Wesley and Luna and their children are included in a profile of her father in the book 'Mongst the Hills of Somerset, published in 1985 by the Historical and Genealogical Society of Somerset County.

 

L-R: Wesley's log-shaped grave marker at Kingwood; grandchildren at the grave, mid-1990s; and the lettered cairn in the woods where he was killed.

 

 

Old Bethel Cemetery, Kingwood

Son James Arthur Younkin (1903-1984) was born on Dec. 19, 1903 in Lower Turkeyfoot. He married Mahala Elizabeth "Lizzie" King (Jan. 28, 1905-1981), daughter of Samuel and Martha (Firestone) King of Upper Turkeyfoot. (In an interesting twist, Mahala Elizabeth's sisters Minerva Ruth King married James' cousin Ralph Frederick Trimpey Sr., and Mary Catherine King wedded James' cousin Harry M. Trimpey, both of the family of Frederick J. and Delilah [Faidley] Younkin.) The couple produced nine children -- Charles Edward Younkin, Sara May, Martha Knopsnyder, Mary Jane Pugh, Melvin Ray "Bud" Younkin, Ruth Tressler, Paul Edward Younkin, Robert S. "Bob" Younkin and Shirley Gonzales Merryman. James and Mahala spent their lives residing near Kingwood. Sadly, Mahala passed into eternity at the age of 76 on June 5, 1981. An obituary was printed in the Meyersdale Republican, which noted that Rev. Paul Tobias officiated at the funeral service and burial in Old Bethel Church Cemetery. James outlived his wife by three years. He died at age 80 in Meyersdale Hospital on Oct. 1, 1984, with burial next to Mahala in Old Bethel. At his death, reported the Somerset Daily American, he was survived by 24 grandchildren and 23 great-grandchildren.

  • Grandson Charles Edward Younkin ( ? - ? ) was born in (?). He lived in Connellsville in 1981. Charles wedded Jean Bonnett (Feb. 25, 1925-1992), daughter of Albert Clinton and Oda (Jeffries) Bonnett. Their one known son was Edward E. Younkin. Sadly, Jean died in Connellsville at the age of 67 on Sept. 28, 1992.
  • Granddaughter Sara Younkin (1924-1993) was born on May 5, 1924. She married John V. May (June 23, 1923-1978), son of William H. and Hazel (Phillippi) May. Their sons were William J. May and Richard E. May. Her home in 1981 was in Sipesville, Somerset County. John passed into eternity in Johnstown, Cambria County, PA at the age of 54 on Jan. 12, 1978. Sara lived for another 15 years. She passed away in Berlin, Somerset County on Oct. 23, 1993 at the age of 69. Burial was in Somerset County Memorial Park.
  • Granddaughter Martha Younkin (1927-2013) was born on Dec. 6, 1927 in Markleton. She wedded Clarence Cyrus Knopsnyder ( ? - ? ). They were the parents of Rickey J. Knopsnyder, Robert Knopsnyder, Loretta Eisler White, Judy Struckoff, Amy Seifert, Barry Knopsnyder, John Knopsnyder, Charles Syrus Knopsnyder, Clarence Knopsnyder and Michael Knopsnyder. In 1981, she resided in Somerset. Sadly, she endured the early deaths of her son Rickey and great-grandsons Joey L. Rogers and Elijah J. Shaulis. The Somerset Daily American once noted that she "retired from Gilmour Mfg. in 1994 with 21 years of service. She was a member of the Somerset Church of the Nazarene, she enjoyed cooking meals for her children and grandchildren, playing card games and quilting." She died at home at the age of 85 on July 15, 2013. Rev. Robert Henderson led funeral services with interment in Somerset County Memorial Park.

Great-granddaughter  Loretta J. Knopsnyder (1946-2018) was born on Oct. 8, 1946 in Markleton. She wedded Ronald D. Eisler ( ? -2014). Their only son was Ronald D. Eisler Jr. Loretta "had a great love of life," said a newspaper, "and was fond of animals. She resided in Stoystown, Somerset County. She died at the age of 72 on March 5, 2018, using the surname "White." Interment was in Somerset County Memorial Park.

Great-grandson Rickey J. Knopsnyder ( ? - ? ) was deceased by 2022.

Great-granddaughter Judy Knopsnyder was joined in wedlock with (?) Struckoff. She was deceased by 2022.

Great-grandson Robert Knopsnyder was united in matrimony with Connie. They lived in Boswell, Somerset County in 2018.

Great-grandson Barry Knopsnyder wedded Diana. Their home in 2018 was in Berlin.

Great-grandson John Knopsnyder resided in Rockwood in 2018.

Great-grandson Charles Knopsnyder married Roxanne. The have lived in Somerset.

Great-grandson Clarence Syrus Knopsnyder (1959-2022) was born on Oct. 5, 1959 in Somerset. He was a member of the 1978 graduating class of Somerset High School. He wed Amy Gene Stahl ( ? -living), daughter of Galen and Emma Gene Stahl. The couple's union endured the ups and downs of 35 years. Together, they produced a family of children including Jenna Spicer and Derrick Knopsnyder. Clarence earned a living as a custodian and dispatch laborer for the Somerset Rural Electric Cooperative, Inc. The family belonged to Grace Methodist Church, and he held memberships in the Fraternal Order of Eagles and Industrial Golf League. In his free time he loved to hunt. Their residence in 2018 was in Somerset. With his health failing, Clarence was admitted to UPMC Magee Womens Hospital, where he died at age 62 on Feb. 1, 2022. Funeral services were held in Grace United Methodist Church, by the hand of Rev. Eric Raygor. The remains were laid to rest in Somerset County Memorial Park.

Great-grandson Michael Knopsnyder was joined in marriage with Susan and live in Rockwood.

Great-granddaughter Susan Knopsnyder was united in wedlock with Kevin Seifert. They dwell in Somerset.

  • Granddaughter Mary Jane Younkin ( ? - ? ) was born in (?). She was united in wedlock with (?) Pugh. She dwelled in Somerset in 1981.
  • Grandson Melvin Ray "Bud" Younkin (1935-1995) was born on July 25, 1935 in Upper Turkeyfoot. On Dec. 18, 1959, at the age of 24, he married Carol Lee Devan ( ? - ? ). Their four children were Timothy R. Younkin, Marla J. Younkin, David W. Younkin and Betheny D. Younkin. They made their home in Somerset. Melvin died at the age of 59 in Somerset on May 10, 1995. Burial was in Old Bethel Church Cemetery.
  • Granddaughter Ruth M. Younkin (1930-1997) was born on March 12, 1930 in Upper Turkeyfoot. She was joined in matrimony with Robert F. Tressler ( ? - ? ). They produced two children -- Roger L. Tressler and Rose Mary Tressler. They lived in Markleton/Kingwood in 1981. She succumbed on Feb. 8, 1997 at the age of 66. Burial was in the Kingwood IOOF Cemetery.

Great-grandson Roger L. Tressler (1948-2020) was born on March 16, 1948 in Somerset. He was the father of Hope Orndorff. A carpenter, Roger was a member for more than half a century of the Carpenter's Union Local 2274. In his free time, he loved fishing and hunting, especially in company of his grandson Devon Orndorff. He also enjoyed gardening and then canning his produce. Sadly, at the age of 72, he passed away at home on July 13, 2020. Funeral services were held in the Kingwood Church of God, officiated by Rev. James Monticue. An obituary was published in the Somerset Daily American.

Great-granddaughter Rose Tressler dwelled in Markleton in 2020.

  • Grandson Paul Edward Younkin (Jan. 1, 1943-2016) was born on New Year's Day 1943 in Markleton. He was joined in marriage with Ada Louise Ewt ( ? - ? ), and they remained together for 47 years until the separation of death. Their only son was Michael Younkin. Their home in the early 1980s was in Markleton/Kingwood. Paul was a longtime carpenter with the Carpenters Union. He loved to fish and hunt and was a member of Old Bethel Church. Paul passed away in Somerset Hospital at the age of 73 on Sept. 17, 2016. Rev. Dr. Douglas Baker officiated at the funeral service, with the remains placed into eternal repose in Old Bethel Cemetery.
  • Grandson Robert Samuel "Bob" Younkin (1938-2011) was born on Sept. 24, 1938 in Upper Turkeyfoot. He attended Rockwood High School and, at the age of 19, worked for Gilmour Super Service in Somerset and was a member of the National Guard. Robert was twice-wed. His first bride circa 1957 was Elaine Faye Burkett (Jan. 16, 1939-2023), daughter of Lawrence William and Alverda Viola (Shumaker) Burkett of Rockwood. Elaine was a 1957 Rockwood High School graduate and in 1957 worked for the Somerset Shirt and Pajama Company. She was pictured in their engagement announcement published in the Somerset Daily American. Their children were Sharon Harriety, Mark William Younkin and Gregory James Younkin. Then in 2000, at age 61, he entered into marriage with fis second spouse, 58-year-old  Natalie Beatrice (Nobles) Shriver ( ? - ? ) of Whiting, NJ. Stepchildren she brought into the marriage with Robert were John Shriver, Sharon Shriver and Roger Shriver. Robert resided in Rockwood circa 1981 and at some point endured the untimely death of stepson John Shriver. He was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed gardening, fishing and hunting. Elaine supplemented their income as a self-employed housekeeper. As his health failed, he was admitted to In Touch Hospice House, where he succumbed at the age of 72 on July 8, 2011. Memorial services were held at the Somerset Church of the Nazarene, with Rev. Dr. Cookie Tressler officiating. Elaine remained in Rockwood. She died in The Patriot in Somerset at the age of 84 on June 13, 2023. Burial was conducted in the New Centerville Union Cemetery, presided over by Rev. Douglas Burns.

Great-granddaughter Sharon Younkin (1959-living) was born in 1959. News of her birth was announced in the Somerset Daily American. Circa 1976, she was a candidate for Rockwood's Maple Princess Contest. She married Robert "Bob" Harrity ( ? - ? ). The pair is believed to have produced these offspring -- Nicole Hardesty and Courtney Heinle. Their home in 2022 was in Shanksville, PA and in 2023 in Friedens.

Great-grandson Gregory James Younkin ( ? -2021) was born in (?). He was joined in wedlock with Zelda Bell ( ? -living). The couple's three children were Brandon Younkin, Dustin Younkin and Tyler Younkin. They made a home in Somerset. Sadly, at the age of 59, Gregory passed away on Sept. 1, 2021.

Great-grandson Mark William Younkin (1960-2022) was born on Nov. 12,1960 in Meyersdale, Somerset County. He wed Kimberly Jean Scheffel ( ? -2021). Three offspring born to this union were Amanda Burnsworth, Mark Younkin Jr. and Renee Emerick. Mark was employed for many years at Hidden Valley Resort, a popular skiing resort, as a lift mechanic. He also earned income as a concrete finisher. The family attended the Somerset Church of the Nazarene. Mark belonged to the Trent Rod & Gun Club and to the Laurel Ridge Sportsmen. When time permitted he liked to fish, hike and hunt. Sadly, Kimbeerly died on Aug. 19, 2021. Mark only outlived her by a little more than a year. At the age of 61, he passed away in UPMC Somerset Hospital on Oct. 7, 2022. His obituary appeared in the Somerset Daily American. Pastor Stephen Zirkle led the funeral, with burial following in Highland Cemetery.

  • Granddaughter Shirley Younkin (1947-2018) was born on Feb. 10, 1947 in Upper Turkeyfoot. She was wedded twice. Her first spouse was (?) Gonzales circa 1981. Her home at that time was in Confluence. Later, she married Joseph Merryman ( ? -2017). Her two daughters were Dawn Conn and Kelley Findling. They made their residence in Ursina. Sadly, Joseph died in August 2017. Shirley only lived for another nine months, and passed away at age 71 on May 6, 2018.

Son Lloyd William Younkin (1906-1974) was born on July 18, 1906. He was twice married. His first bride was Beulah Celeste Briskey, daughter of John William and Clara (Shumaker) Briskey. They had one son, Lloyd Briskey Younkin. After a divorce, Lloyd married widow Mary Pearl (Knupp) Kimmel (1911-1974), daughter of Reuben and Carrie Etta (Bittner) Knupp, who had a daughter to a previous marriage, Mary Ann Kimmel. They endured even more heartache when son Lloyd B. Younkin, employed by Rhodamer Concrete, was killed accidentally in the workplace. Lloyd W. was employed by Somerset State Hospital and was a member of the Grace United Methodist Church and the Somerset Sportsmen's Association. He died at age 68 on July 18, 1974. Lloyd W. and Beulah are named in a profile of her father John William Briskey in the 1985 book 'Mongst the Hills of Somerset.

Son Kenneth Leroy Younkin (1908-1961) was born in 1908 near New Centerville, Somerset County. As a young man, he labored as a farmer and lived near Salisbury, Somerset County. On March 3, 1930, he and 21-year-old Beulah Harriet Alexander (1909- ? ) united themselves in marriage. She was the daughter of Eder and Mary (Bender) Alexander of Accident, MD. They had four children. He was a truck driver for Ohio Edison Company for 21 years, and then became a manager at Mindale Farms of Tallmadge, Ohio. Said the Somerset American, "he became a skilled producer in the breeding of Aberdeen Angus cattle and Berkshire swine. He helped raise the 1952 Ohio State Fair grand champion sow and the 1952 Illinois State fair reserve junior champion sow." He died in 1961. 

Daughter Naomi Fern Younkin (1905- ? ) was born in 1905. As a young woman, she was a teacher in the outskirts of Rockwood. When both bride and groom were age 19, Naomi married Clarence J. Knepper (1905- ? ), son of Homer and Laura (Shobur) Knepper of Berlin, Somerset County. Rev. R.E. Shober officiated at the nuptials, held on May 24, 1924 at Clarence's home. At the time of marriage, Clarence was a teacher residing at Berlin.

Daughter Paola Younkin (1912?- ? ) is believed to have been born in 1911 or 1912 and was in infancy when her father was killed.

 

Minnie Belle

~ Daughter Minnie Belle (Younkin) Barkman ~

Daughter Minnie Belle Younkin (1886-1969) was born on Aug. 17, 1886 in Kingwood. 

She married Franklin J. "Frank" Barkman ( ? -1974), son of Jacob S. and Elizabeth (Stahl) Barkman of New Centerville, Somerset County. The ceremony took place on Sept. 3 or 5, 1907, in the parsonage of the Messiah Lutheran Church, when Minnie was age 21. Rev. D.S. Weimer officiated. 

Their four children were Orlo J. Barkman, Hazel M. Miller, Alverda M. Whipkey and Arlene E. Thomas.

 

Minnie and Frank

When Minnie's brother Wesley tragically was killed in a lightning strike in 1912, Minnie and Frank took in the victim's young daughter, Naomi, and raised her to adulthood. The Barkmans were farmers, working on his father's farm, and were members of the Messiah Lutheran Church of Glade (renamed New Centerville). 

She liked to call her husband "Pop," and he called her "Mom," as did all of their children.

They spent their retirement traveling to Florida and the West Coast. In 1967, they celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary. 

Minnie died in Rockwood at the age of 83 on Dec. 5, 1969. 

Franklin survived her by five years. Lost without his wife, and said to have a broken heart, he passed into eternity on Nov. 17, 1974. 

In 1985, their daughter Alverda published a photograph of Frank and Minnie in the book 'Mongst the Hills of Somerset, produced by the Historical and Genealogical Society of Somerset County.

 

~ Daughter Margaret E. "Maggie" (Younkin) Friedline ~

Daughter Margaret E. "Maggie" Younkin (1888-1939) was born on Aug. 30, 1888 in Kingwood. 

She wed James Jay Friedline (1884-1938) two days before Christmas 1910, when she was 21 years of age and he 26. He was the son of Jacob and Matilda (Lape) Friedline.

Their two children were James Jay Friedline Jr. and Wallace Friedline. 

James was a self-employed carpentry contractor. They dwelled in Bakersville, Jefferson Township. 

At the age of 54, while trying to life excessive weight while at work, James suffered a heart attack in May 1938. He died on July 11, 1938. Burial was in Husband Cemetery.

Margaret was stricken with cancer of the left breast and also of the lungs. She underwent surgery in 1937 but it was not effective. After two years of suffering, she was admitted to Somerset Community Hospital and died at the untimely age of 50 on May 25, 1939, with interment in the Husband Cemetery in Somerset. 

Son James Jay Friedline Jr. (1914-2001) was born on April 8, 1914 in Jefferson Township, Somerset County. He was twice married. His first bride was Evon Avis Cook (1914-1963), daughter of Jacob and Nannie (Brubaker) Cook. They produced one daughter, Pamela Nan Heer. Over the years, James was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church and attended the University of Pittsburgh. The Somerset Daily American noted that he was a World War II veteran with the U.S. Air Force Troop Carrier 50th wing. He also was a member of the Masons, Odd Fellows, American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars. He also belonged to the Somerset Borough Council and Somerset Police Civil Service Commission and was an automobile salesman for the Roy H. Shaulis & Son dealership of Somerset. Their home was at 938 West Main Street in Somerset. Evon worked as a case worker in welfare matters. Sadly, Evon received first degree burns above her buttocks from use of a heating pad. She suffered a heart attack and died suddenly on May 5, 1963, at the age of 49. James married again to M. Laverne (Shaffer) Tranquilla. She had been married before and brought these children to the union -- Dr. Ronald Tranquilla and David Tranquilla. James and Laverne remained wed for 33 years. On Jan. 9, 2001, at the age of 86, James died in Somerset Hospital. His remains were lowered into eternal repose in Somerset County Community Park.

 

  • Granddaughter Pamela Nan Friedline married William Heer and in 2001 made their home in Rotonda West, FL.

Son Wallace Luther Friedline (1921-1997) was born on Aug. 10, 1921 in Bakersville, Jefferson Township. During World War II, he was a member of the U.S. Army Air Corps. As with his brother, he was widowed and married a second time. His first wife was Lois Virginia Davis (1920-1961), daughter of Claude W. and Marguerite (Blackburn) Davis of Ursina. They made their residence at 110 Circle Drive in Somerset. Sadly, at the age of 20, Lois was stricken with an auto-immune disease of the skin, known to physicians as "scleroderma." She managed to live with the ailment for 20 years, but passed away on Sept. 28, 1961 at the age of 40. The following year, Wallace was united in wedlock with his second wife, Jane Varner Hoffman (1924-2006), daughter of Carl Henry and Ruth (Varner) Friedline. In all, his offspring were Margaret Ann Friedline, Ann Ruth Friedline and John W. Friedline. They were members of Trinity Lutheran Church. Wallace also was active with the local Masonic lodge and a board member of Somerset Country Club. He also belonged to the American Legion and attended University of Pittsburgh.  A business owner, he operated Friedline's Ladies Shoe and Accessories for 21 years, from 1948 to 1969, and was a field service representative for Penelec from 1970 to 1987. Lois had her own career, following her graduation from Gettysburg College. She was a case worker for Blue Cross Blue Shield and for the Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare, a position from which she retired in 1982. She also was a member of the Somerset Welfare League and American Legion Ladies Auxiliary. Wallace died at home at the age of 75 on July 12, 1997. He rests in Somerset County Community Park, with Rev. Robert L. Hoover Jr. having officiated at the funeral service. Jane survived her husband by nine years. She passed into eternity at age  82 on Dec. 7, 2006. 

 

  • Grandson John W. Friedline married Lori Ann Salvato and dwelled in Dayton and Kendall Park, NJ.

 

~ Son Charles E. Younkin ~

 

Son Charles E. Younkin (1891-1978) was born on Jan. 9, 1891 in Kingwood. 

At the age of 19, on Feb. 7, 1910, he married a Younkin cousin, 21-year-old Lavenia Mary "Venie" Dumbauld (1889-1982), daughter of Peter T. and Ellen (Gerhardt) Dumbauld, and grandson of Jonathan Cable and Elizabeth (Dull) Dumbauld. They enjoyed 68 years of married life together. 

 

Kingwood Odd Fellows Cemetery

The couple's five known children were Hazel Barclay, Roberta Glessner, Guy Edward Younkin, Ralph W. Younkin and Dorothy Pyle. Sadly, they endured the death of their son Guy at age 20 in 1936.

When the federal census enumeration was made in 1920, the Younkins dwelled in Upper Turkeyfoot Township, with Charles earning a living as a "diversified" farmer.

By 1930, they had migrated to a farm in nearby Milford Township, with daughter and son-in-law Hazel and John Barclay living under their roof, and the son-in-law helping provide labor on the family farm.

They were longtime members of the Milford Grange and the New Centerville Church of God. Charles also worked for Somerset State Hospital. In 1977, their home was in Somerset.

Charles passed away first, at age 87, on Sept. 18, 1978.

Venie survived him by four years, to the ripe age of 93. She died in Somerset Community Hospital on Aug. 25, 1982, with burial beside her husband son in the Kingwood Odd Fellows Cemetery. An obituary in the Meyersdale Republic noted that her survivors included 11 grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren and nine great-great grandchildren.

Daughter Hazel Younkin (1912- ? ) was born in about 1912. Circa 1930, when she was 18 years of age, she was united in holy matrimony with 19-year-old John M. Barclay (1911- ? ). The newlyweds' first home was in the household of Hazel's parents in Milford Township, Somerset County.. Circa 1945, they lived in Somerset. They were the parents of Carol I. "Weasel" Dwire, Avis Latuch, John C. Barclay, Lois Corcoran and Joan Sanner.

  • Granddaughter Carol I. "Weasel" Barclay (1945-2013) was born on Nov. 28, 1945 in Somerset. She married Barry E. Dwire Sr. ( ? - ? ). They made their home in Derry, Westmoreland County, PA. They produced these children -- Briana R. Tomack, Eric W. Dwire, Brock E. Dwire and Barry E. Dwire Jr. The couple is believed to have separated. Carol worked over the years for Airo Die Casting, a position from which she retired in 2008. She also volunteered her time with Meals on Wheels at Latrobe Hospital and belonged to the Derry Volunteer Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary, Derry Ukes, Derry Fraternal Order of Eagles and the Derry American Legion. She died while a patient at Excela Latrobe Hospital at the age of 67 on Sept. 5, 2013. Burial was in Rockwood Cemetery following funeral services preached by Rev. John D. Tollner. An obituary appeared in the Greensburg Tribune-Review.
  • Granddaughter Lois Barclay married (?) Corcoran. She was deceased by 2013.
  • Granddaughter Joan Barclay wedded (?) Sanner. She was deceased by 2013.
  • Granddaughter Avis Barclay was joined in wedlock with (?) Latuch. Her home in 2013 was in Conway, SC.
  • Grandson John C. Barclay was united in matrimony with Beverly. They dwelled in Rockwood in 2013.

Daughter Roberta Younkin (1915- ? ) was born in about 1915 in or near Upper Turkeyfoot.

Son Guy Younkin (1917- ? ) was born in about 1917 in or near Upper Turkeyfoot.

Son Ralph W. Younkin (1922- ? ) was born in about 1922 in Somerset County.

Daughter Dorothy E. Younkin (1926-2009) was born on March 6, 1926 in Middlecreek Township, Somerset County. She was a 1944 alumna of Somerset High School. She went on to graduate from the Windber School of Nursing. She appears to have been twice-wed. Her first spouse was John A. Ward ( ? - ? ). Together, they bore a son, Jeffrey L. Ward. John was a longtime employee of Somerset State Hospital, working as a safety engineer and fire marshal. The couple separated, and John purchased a classified notice in the Somerset Daily American in July 1954, stating that "I will not be responsible for debts or obligations contracted by anyone other than myself." Her second husband was Virgil O. "Red" Pyle (May 13, 1911-1999), a native of Milford Township and the son of William and Margaret (Pyle) Pyle. He had been married before and brought several children to the union, Ronald Pyle, Sandra Pyle and Sharon Caha. Dorothy and Virgil appear to have had a daughter of their own, Jennifer Pyle. For many years, Dorothy was employed as a registered nurse at Somerset State Hospital. She eventually was hired by Somerset Hospital, where she was a nursing supervisor and specialized in infection control. She retired from this work in 1986. Dorothy worshipped at the Beulah United Methodist Church in Friedens and Virgil at Trinity Lutheran Church in Somerset. He was a member of the local Rotary Club and of the National Rifle Association. Virgil passed into the arms of the angels in Somerset Hospital on May 7, 1999, just six days shy of his 88th birthday. Preaching the funeral service was Rev. Clarence Moore. Her final years were spent in Somerset. Sadness covered the family when Dorothy died at the age of 83 on April 18, 2009. She was pictured in her Daily American obituary. Rev. Dan Jones led the funeral, with burial of the remains taking place in Somerset County Memorial Park. Former husband moved to Stoystown and married again to Ida McNeal ( ? - ? ). He died in Johnstown/s Conemaugh Hospital at the age of 69 on July 24, 1992.

  • Grandson Jeffrey Lynn Ward (Dec. 24, 1950- ? ) was born on Christmas Eve 1950. At the age of 18, on Jan. 18, 1969, he eloped to Winchester, VA to marry 17-year-old Phyllis Kay Sarver (May 7, 1951-2017), daughter of Clarence Edison and Elsie M. (Cramer) Sarver of the family of Daniel Foster and Amanda Margaret (Foust) Sarver. Rev. E.T. Crank, of the local Baptist church, presided. The children born to this union were Jeffrey Ward Jr. and Candy Ward. The couple divorced by 1973. Jeffrey then joined the U.S. Marine Corps in 1973. In the same year, he married Jane Deem ( ? - ? ), daughter of Wilbur Deem of Berlin and a fellow Marine. Her specialty at the time was computer programming. A story about the wedding said that "it's the only known husband and wife team enlisted in all services from Somerset County." In 1974, he completed training at the Marines' Recruit Depot in San Diego. He was posted in 1978 to the Marine Corps Station in Cherry Point, NC. Jeffrey made his home in 1992 in Acosta, Somerset County. Then in 1999, Jeffrey was in North Carolina and by 2009 moved to Phoenix. See the Sarver biography for more.
  • Granddaughter Jennifer Lou Pyle (1965?- ? ) was born in about 1965. She graduated from Somerset Area Senior High School in 1984. She married Kyle Cramer, son of Edward Leroy and Margaret Irene (Brant) Cramer. They were in Somerset in 2009.
  • Step-grandson Ronald Pyle wedded Judy Kipp. They established a residence in Somerset.
  • Step-granddaughter Sandra Pyle relocated to Pittsburgh.
  • Step-granddaughter Sharon Pyle was joined in marriage with (?) Caha. Her home in 1999 was in Frederick, MD.

 

~ Son Ross Milton Younkin ~

Son Ross Milton Younkin (1893-1962) was born on Feb. 2, 1893 near Addison. 

He married Mary Elizabeth "Bessie" Sullivan (1895-1981), daughter of Nathaniel W. and Louisa (Bittner) Sullivan of New Centerville, Milford Township, Somerset County. Their ceremony was held on Oct. 20, 1916, when Ross was age 23 and Bessie 21. Rev. P.B. Fasold officiated, likely at the bride's home. At the time of marriage, Ross was a farmer. 

Their five progeny were Marie I. Sandstrom, Othelia F. Drabish, Cleo Thelma Miller Goller, Lorena Cramer and Dolores Pfeifer. 

Ross and Bessie made their home in New Centerville, where he earned a living as a carpenter.

Burdened with congestive heart failure, on top of two decades' of hardening of the arteries, Ross entered Somerset Community Hospital and died 11 days later at age 69 on Nov. 13, 1962. Interment was in the Lutheran Cemetery in New Centerville.

Bessie survived him by almost two decades, making her home in Rockwood. She died at age 85 on July 8, 1981. Her obituary in the Daily American said that she was "the oldest living resident of New Centerville Borough." Rev. Gregory Pile presided at her funeral service.

Daughter Marie I. Younkin ( ? - ? ) was born on (?). She entered into marriage with (?) Sandstrom ( ? - ? ). Circa 1975-1981, they lived in North Olmsted near Cleveland, OH.

Daughter Othelia Fern Younkin (1919-1975) was born on July 6, 1919 in New Centerville. She relocated to Cleveland, OH in young womanhood and worked there as a waitress. At the age of 23, on May 23, 1943, she wed Michael Drabish Jr. (Sept. 29, 1918-1991), son of Austrian immigrants Michael and Katherine (Mondzak) Drabish of Berlin, Somerset County. The nuptials were held by Rev. L.W. Gross in the Younkin dwelling in New Centerville. The Somerset Daily American announced the happy event, saying the bride "wore a toe length gown of heavy bouffant skirt and fitted bodice, a juliet cap, banded with seed pearls, and from which fell a long lace veil, forming a train. White orchids composed her corsage." At the time of marriage, Michael was working as a machinist in Cleveland, OH, and earlier at Somerset Community Hospital. He stood 5 feet, 4 inches tall, weighed 148 lbs and when registering for the military draft during World War II, was described as "crippled -- decided limp." The couple made their home in the outskirts of Rockwood. Their four offspring were Michael R. Drabish, Jean Miller, Mary Ann Harbaugh and Phyllis Jean Younkin. Othelia and Michael jointly owned and operated several businesses, among them Stephens Dry Cleaning and its predecessor Thomas Dry Cleaning in Meyersdale, West End Laundromat in Somerset and Rockwood Laundromat. They also were longtime members of the New Centerville and Rural Volunteer Fire Company and its Firemen's Auxiliary. Sadly, at the age of 55, Ophelia passed away in Somerset Community Hospital on Feb. 12, 1975. Her obituary was published in the Meyersdale Republic and the Daily American. Rev. Gene Able led the funeral service, followed by burial in the Messiah Lutheran Cemetery in New Centerville. Michael lived on for another 16-plus years and dwelled at 178 Ord Street, Salisbury. He suffered a heavy loss in August 1990 when the Stevens dry cleaning business was damaged in a fire. The angel of death clipped him away at Meyersdale Community Hospital on Nov. 20, 1991.

  • Grandson Michael R. Drabish has dwelled near Rockwood.
  • Granddaughter Jean Elizabeth Drabish ( ? -living) was born in Meyersdale, the daughter of Charles W. and Anne Drabish of Cleveland but went to live with her aunt and uncle Othelia and Michael in New Centerville in July 1960. She joined the St. Mary's Greek Catholic Church of Windber and at one time was employed by Rockwood Insurance Company. On May 5, 1973, residing at 711 South Center Avenue in Somerset, she married Michael Jay Miller ( ? -living), son of M. Jay Miller of Rockwood. The nuptials were conducted in the Messiah Lutheran Church, presided by the hand of Rev. Gene J. Abel. Their only daughter is Michele Renee Miller-Beener. Michael was employed as a mechanic by the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission. He also was a sergeant first class with the Pennsylvania Army National Guard in a maintenance capacity over a span of 26 years of service. He has been active with the annual Jubilee of the New Centerville Volunteer Fire Company, working with James Calvin Brocht and his son Clark of the Younkin branch of the family of Frederick and Margaret "Peggy" (Faidley) Dull. In their free time, Jean likes to walk, tende her garden, listen to music, read and visit Lancaster County, PA, while Michael is known for collecting and restoring antique farm equipment, especially automobiles and steam-powered vehicles. Michael was pictured in this website's "Photo of the Month" for December 2021.
  • Granddaughter Mary Ann Drabish ( ? - ? ) is a 1970 graduate of Rockwood Area High School. As of 1971, she made a home at 711 South Center Avenue in Somerset. In about 1971, she wed her Rockwood classmate, James Russell Harbaugh ( ? - ? ), son of Irwin "Oscar" and Opal (Rugg) Harbaugh of the family of Robert Bacom and Alice Elizabeth (Rugg) Harbaugh Jr. At the time of marriage, he was employed by Bender Shoe Company. See the Harbaugh biography for more.
  • Granddaughter Phyllis Jean Drabish ( ? - ? ) was a 1975 graduate of Rockwood Area High School. She first entered into marriage with David E. Thomas ( ? - ? ). The couple divorced in 1998. In time she married again to (?) Younkin.

Daughter Cleo Thelma Younkin (1921-2010) was born on Sept. 25, 1921 in New Centerville. She spent her entire life in New Centerville Borough and in connection with the Messiah Lutheran Church. In young womanhood she was employed in Somerset. Cleo was twice-married. She first was joined in matrimony on June 24, 1945 with Jacob A.B. Miller (Sept. 16, 1904-1962) of Somerset, the son of Joseph and Agnes (Barron) Miller. The ceremony was held in the Younkin residence, officiated by their pastor, Rev. John D. Ickes. In announcing the marriage, the Somerset Daily American said that the bride "was attired in a navy blue, crepe, street length dress. She wore white accessories and had a shoulder corsage of white carnations." Their offspring included Richard L. Miller and a daughter who died in infancy in 1945. The couple settled in New Centerville, with Jacob supporting the family through his work as a coal miner. Said the Daily American, Cleo "was a member of the New Centerville and Rural Volunteer Fire Co. Ladies Auxiliary for over 50 yers, serving as an officer during her active service. An avid quilter, she was also involved with the New Centerville Quilters and the Messiah Church Quilters. She was a retired employee of the Rockwood Area Schools where she worked 23 years in the cafeteria and was a past New Centerville Borough census taker." Sadly, over the span of 15 to 20 years, the entire time of their marriage, Jacob suffered from silicosis, the ingestion of small particles of sand and quartz into the lungs. Jacob died on May 30, 1962. Cleo outlived him by nearly half a century. Later that same year, in November, Cleo lost her father. After three-plus years as a widow, in 1966, she wed her second spouse, John Russell. Goller (April 2, 1912-1970), son of Russell and Pearl (Romesberg) Goller and widower of Goldie (Show) Goller. He thus brought these stepchildren into the second union -- Arlene Purbaugh, Clara Kelly, Joyce Ivanusic and Shirley Johnson. Also a member of the Messiah church and New Centerville fire department, John was employed as a laborer with the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation and belonged to the Somerset Eagles. The Gollers' marriage lasted for four years until his death at age 58, in Somerset Community Hospital, on Nov. 9, 1970. Rev. Gene Abel led the funeral service with burial in Union Cemetery. Cleo survived as a two-time widow for 40 years. In her free hours she liked to crocket, knit and solve jigsaw puzzles, as well as babysit her growing family of young grandchildren. At the age of 88, Cleo was admitted to Somerset Hospital where she died on March 22, 2010. Her obituary appeared in the Daily American. Funeral services were conducted in the family church, led by Pastor Will Osman. Her remains were lowered into the sacred soil of the Union Cemetery next to the church.

  • Grandson Richard L. Miller married Lugene Prokop. Their two children were Jason R. Miller and Jessica Stremp.

    Great-grandson Jason R. Miller was joined in marriage with Ashley Shick.

    Great-grauddaughter Jessica Miller was united in wedlock with Stephen Stremp. Their one known daughter is Charlee Rose Stremp.  

Daughter Lorena Younkin (1925-2010) was born on April 23, 1925. She was united in wedlock with Sheldon Cramer ( ? - ? ), son of Charles N. and Jennie (Mitchell) Cramer of Casselman. The four children the Cramers bore together were Sevier S. Cramer, Darrah H. Cramer, Beverly Cramer and Darinda R. Goethals. Circa 1950, Lorena is known to have been active with the New Centerville and Rural Fire Company Auxiliary. She also was a member of the Order of Eastern Star. Lorena and Sheldon relocated to Bradenton, FL and were there in 1981. At the age of 85, Lorena died in Monroe, GA on Sept. 4, 2010.

  • Grandson Sevier S. Cramer ( ? - ? ) married Betty. They have made a home in Ruskin, FL. Evidence suggests that he is a motorcycle enthusiast and ridden thousands of miles on his Kawasaki Vulcan 750.
  • Grandson Darrah H. Cramer (1950-2017) was born on July 29, 1950. He entered into marriage with Sandra Trissler ( ? - ? ) and was the fathr of Wade Cramer and Amy Cramer. They relocated to Parma Heights, OH. Sadly, he surrendered to the spectre of death at the age of 67 on Dec. 14, 2017. His remains were cremated and laid to rest in Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery. In an obituary, the family asked that any memorial donations be made to Cleveland Metroparks Zoo.
  • Granddaughter Beverly Cramer ( ? - ? ) dwelled in Conyers, GA. She was deceased by 2017.
  • Granddaughter Darinda R. Cramer wed Michael Goethals. Their residence in 2010 was in Monroe, GA. A 2011 graduate of Georgia Massage School, she is a licensed massage therapist with Ancora Pain Recovery in Athens, GA.

Daughter Dolores Younkin (1938-2006) was born on Feb. 13, 1938 in Somerset. There was a 20-year gap in ages between her and her eldest sistre. Dolores wed John Pfeifer ( ? - ? ). Together, they produced a brood of four -- Elizabeth Faidley, John Pfeifer Jr., James Pfeifer and Sheryl Walton. The Pfeifers lived in the vicinity of Rockwood and were longtime members of the Messiah Lutheran Church and New Centerville Ladies Auxiliary. Dolores earned a living for years through her work at Fleetwood Folding Trailers in Somerset. Said the Somerset Daily American, "She loved her family more than life itself. She loved cake and ice cream almost as much." She died at the age of 68 on Aug. 6, 2006. Her remains were cremated and scattered in a favorite, privately known location in North Carolina. Her memorial service was held in the family church. 

  • Granddaughter Elizabeth Pfeifer ( ? - ? ) was joined in wedlock with (?) Faidley.
  • Grandson John Pfeifer Jr. ( ? - ? )
  • Grandson James Pfeifer ( ? - ? )
  • Granddaughter Sheryl Pfeifer ( ? - ? ) was united in matrimony with (?) Walton.

 

Clark M. Younkin

~ Son Clark Melvin Younkin ~

Son Clark Melvin Younkin (1896-1973) was born on June 13, 1896 near Kingwood. 

On June 24, 1915, at the age of 19, he was joined in matrimony with a double cousin, Olive Caroline Hauger (1899-1961), daughter of Jonathan E. and Ellen Elizabeth "Ellen" (Younkin) Hauger. O.G. Fye officiated at the ceremony. 

Clark was a coal miner at the No. 10 and 11 mines near Rockwood. He also was a school director of Black Township for 30 years, and spent 28 years working for the Rockwood Water Company. 

They had only one child, Ellouise Theo Kreger. 

Olive passed away in January 1961 at the age of 62. 

Clark outlived her by a dozen years. He died at age 77 on July 7, 1973. They rest together in the Odd Fellows Cemetery in Rockwood.

 

~ Daughter Martha "Mattie" (Younkin) Trapp ~

Daughter Martha E. "Mattie" Younkin (1897-1962) was born on Oct. 18, 1897 at Fort Hill, Somerset County. In 1925, she was employed as a telephone operator in Somerset. 

She married Carl A. Trapp (1904-1979), son of hotel keeper Charles A. and Mary (Kiefer) Trapp of Johnstown, Cambria County, PA. Their wedding took place on July 31, 1925. 

They had no children. Carl was a mechanic and worked in Listie, PA. 

At the age of 64, Mattie died on Feb. 5, 1962 and was entombed in Somerset County Memorial Park. 

Carl lived for another 17 years and passed into eternity at age 74 on June 22, 1979.

 

Copyright © 2014-2018, 2020-2021 Mark A. Miner

Research for this page graciously shared by Chelsea Beth (Younkin) Raum, Audrey (Miller) Will, the late Eloise (Younkin) Kreger, the late Olive (Rowan) Duff and the late Donna (Younkin) Logan.