Remembering Mark Hochberg
Professor of English
When Dr. Mark Hochberg retired in 2017, he had six colleagues in the English department. He had been teaching here longer than four of those colleagues had been alive. During the nearly five decades of his tenure at Juniata, Hochberg taught American literature through a variety of courses including Major American Writers I and II, The Short Story, Literary Theory, and (the wildly popular) Dirty Books. Thousands of students soaked in his lectures and sweated through his blue book exams—all while staring at his yellow sneakers tied with brightly-colored shoelaces.
When I was one of Dr. Hochberg’s students, I knew that he was a brilliant man. My classmates and I learned a great deal about Hemingway and Fitzgerald through his insights. We also spent much of our class time wondering how long he had been growing his magnificent beard and guessing at what was in the pockets of his ever-present fishing vest. For years, students had theories about both. They also had a suspicion that Hochberg was actually William Faulkner. People said there was no way that he could know that much about Faulkner’s books unless he wrote them himself.
When I returned to Juniata as his colleague, he became a staunch advocate for me. As chair, I set out to update the English POE and modernize our departmental curriculum. Mark was the first person to contribute ideas and new courses. I recently told his dear wife, Sue, how much I appreciated and respected him for that—so much that I even forgave him for the time that he made me read Go Down Moses.
For years, our colleagues and I sat in many meetings with him, admiring his sharp wit, uncanny institutional memory, and unfailing sense of logic. He used all three to help keep the English department grounded in the practical. That can be tough when the room is filled with people who teach poetry and fiction all day. We shared genuine gratitude for his candor, for his commitment to our department, and for the knowledge he shared with our students and with us. We were sad to see the end of his era on campus when he retired. Forty-six years is an incredible amount of time to devote to one institution. I don’t know if we will ever see the professional longevity that he enjoyed here again. We were even more shaken by the news of his passing. We aren’t likely to find anyone again who could quite fill his vest.
—By Amy E. (Heptner) Mathur ’96, head of the Humanities Division, chair of the English Department, and associate professor of English
Remembering J. Peter Trexler
Professor of Geology
Gracious, humble, kind, the consummate gentleman. These are characteristics of Pete Trexler that I recognized from the moment I arrived on campus in the fall of 1978, joining the team of Trexler and (Robert) Washburn in the Geology Department at Juniata. Pete was, of course, the founder of that geology program and it was apparent in both the allegiance of geology alums and in their trajectories, that Pete had respected, coached, and shepherded well the first decade and a half of students through the program.
Without question, Pete knew his Pennsylvania geology, and he shared his understanding generously and effectively, establishing a pattern of hands-on learning and field experience that both excited students and prepared them well for future endeavors. He promoted curiosity at the same time as he instilled professionalism.
Pete was much more than a motivating instructor of geology. He was a team player. As department chair he was supportive and flexible, accepting the less rewarding assignments alongside the stimulation of upper-level courses. He engaged as enthusiastically in the gen-ed program’s team-taught courses as he did his specialties–paleontology and stratigraphy, and he promoted that teaching mindset to his departmental colleagues.
Pete modeled the phrase “lifelong learner”. He was an avid reader of history, a supporter of the arts, and an enthusiastic follower of the opera. His admiration and love for his wife and two daughters, between them a dentist, a doctor, and a veterinarian, explains, perhaps, why the Juniata geology department was such a welcoming environment for women scientists, even as the profession as a whole had a history of being a man’s domain.
Pete was a quiet and generous listener and was devoted to his family, to his farm (White Oaks, in Donation), and to his horses. These became the centerpieces of his life after retirement. I bumped into Pete quite often in the grocery store, and up until a few years before his passing he was forever the same, in both appearance and demeanor. He remained, even in those grocery-store moments, a caring, friendly and supportive presence. I am grateful to have spent my career in a small-college, student-centered geology department, led by a person as kindly and even-tempered as Pete Trexler.
—By Larry Mutti, professor of geology emeritus
Obituaries
Amanda M. (Zug) Fritz ’40
Jan. 19, 2024 — Amanda was Juniata’s oldest known living alumna at the time of her death, reaching the age of 105. She worked in the ticketing office for the Pennsylvania Railroad, now Amtrak, for 36 years, which provided her free train trips anywhere in the United States. She enjoyed traveling and went on many cruises in her lifetime. She loved golf, games, and could often be found playing pinochle or cards. Amanda was preceded in death by husband Jacob; she is survived by stepson Larry and two grandchildren.
Marion A. (Ecker) Painter ’41
Aug. 24, 2023 — Marion lived to be 104. She taught for 35 years at school districts in the Philadelphia and Gettysburg area. She was a foreign exchange teacher from 1948 to 1949 in Manchester, England. While abroad, she had tea with Princess Elizabeth and the Queen Mother and took part in an audience with Pope Pius XII. Marion enjoyed crocheting, gardening, and tutoring neighborhood children. Marion was preceded in death by husband John, brother Jacob Ecker ’38, and son David; she is survived by daughter Barbara and one grandson.
Ruth C. (Rittenhouse) Rollinson ’48
Sept. 20, 2023 — Ruth graduated from Juniata with a degree in chemistry, and quickly started work as a chemist at the Institute of Paper Chemistry at Lawrence College. She enjoyed playing the organ and piano and was deeply involved in the church. Ruth devoted herself to the education of children in her local community and taught all ages. She tutored small children and taught chemistry at her local high school. Ruth was preceded in death by husband Sam and son Selby; she is survived by sons Lon, Martin, Matthew, and James.
Julia M. (Emigh) Fletcher ’49
Sept. 17, 2023 — Julia graduated from Juniata with a degree in home economics. Julia had a love for antiques and even restored her historic home in Ithaca, N.Y. She was a remarkable piano player, loved flowers and gardening. Julia was preceded in death by husband Alan Fletcher ’50 and sister Ann (Emigh) Rivers ’44; she is survived by daughters Cynthia, Lois, Anne Fletcher ’74, and Carol Fletcher ’78, and 10 grandchildren.
Phyllis (Gibbs) Sidorsky ’49
Dec. 30, 2023 — Phyllis met her husband in the Juniata theater productions. She was in the cast, and he was the stage manager. She began work as a social worker, before turning to her long-time love of libraries and receiving her master’s in library science. Phyllis was a librarian at the National Cathedral School for 20 years. She was a prolific reviewer of children’s books. Her reviews appeared in The Washington Post, The New York Times, and other professional journals. Phyllis loved painting and gardening. She was very active in many organizations including the Herb Society of America, Meals on Wheels, and served on Juniata’s Alumni Council. Phyllis was preceded in death by sister Shirley (Gibbs) Lewis ’40, husband Raymond Sidorsky ’50, and daughter Erica.
Harold D. Brocht ’50
Nov. 24, 2023 — Don served in the United States Marine Corps from 1945 to 1952 and achieved the rank of sergeant. He taught music at Robertsdale High School and then Tussey Mountain High School, and after 38 years retired in 1987. He was the first paramedic for the R.W. & BT Vol Fire Co. Ambulance Service and was the deputy coroner for Huntingdon County for more than 15 years. He attended and was the choir director of Robertsdale Church of God. He is survived by wife Jackie, daughters Jana, Dawn, and Beth, son David, and eight grandchildren.
Donald L. Robinson ’51
Nov. 15, 2023 — Don obtained his minister’s license in 1947 and was ordained in 1951. He served as Pastor of the First Church of the Brethren in Wyomissing for 31 years. Don was dedicated to mental health awareness and worked to spread awareness about the subject in his local communities. Don was awarded the Alumni Service Award and Church-College Service Award by Juniata and chaired Juniata’s Church-College Relations Committee. Don was preceded in death by brother Paul Robinson ’35; he is survived by wife Eleanor, sons Jim and John Robinson ’76, daughter Jane (Robinson) Wiggins ’77, and eight grandchildren, including Jason Robinson ’08, Emily Wiggins ’08, and Joshua Robinson ’10.
Louise A. (Wengert) White ’51
Oct. 24, 2023 — Louise received a Master of Social Work from the University of Maryland. She worked as a social worker for several child welfare agencies, before retiring from the Clifton T. Perkins Hospital as a psychiatric social worker. Louise met her husband at a dance for incoming students at Juniata and they were married for nearly 65 years. Louise volunteered at Brookside Gardens and Mason-Dixon Community Services. She enjoyed gardening, traveling, reading, and collecting antiques. Louise was preceded in death by husband Louis White ’49; she is survived by daughters Karen and Barbara, son Stephen, and six grandchildren.
Barbara J. (Warner) Coolidge ’52
Jan. 19, 2024 — Barbara retired from the National Institutes of Health as the head of the histo-pathological section of the National Cancer Institute. She wrote a lab manual that is still in use, along with several research papers. Barbara was a lifelong member of the Church of the Brethren, where she held many responsibilities. She was a past president of the VFW Auxiliary, Post 9862 and volunteered for the Girl Scouts, Driving for Cancer, and various school and civic organizations. She loved to travel and visited 49 out of the 50 states, as well as countries around the globe. Barbara was preceded in death by husband Edward and son Robert; she is survived by daughter Patricia, son Russell, and three grandchildren.
Gertrude (Griffin) Frey ’52
Aug. 16, 2023 — Trudy taught nutrition and home economics through Penn State and Rutgers extension agencies. She was also a registered dietitian at Warren Hospital and Eastwood Nursing Home. Trudy volunteered for and was a member of Old Greenwich Presbyterian Church, Daughters of the American Revolution, Warren County Pamona Grange, and Stewartsville Grange, the latter of which she met her husband of 61 years. She was a prolific quilter and knowledgeable about antique quilts, she was a member of several sewing organizations and won multiple awards for her quilts. She is survived by husband Bob, sons Bruce and Robert, and two grandchildren.
Rhoda (Clemmer) Gaugler ’53
Sept. 24, 2023 — Rhoda was a dental assistant in her husband’s dental practice. She enjoyed music and was a choir director at Zion Mennonite Church. She enjoyed cooking, baking pies, and spending time with her grandchildren. She was preceded in death by husband, George Gaugler Jr. ’50 and brother Lake Clemmer Sr. ’50; she is survived by sons, George, Dale, and Tim, and eight grandchildren.
Betty (Carpenter) Johnson ’52
Jan. 19, 2024 — Betty graduated from Juniata with a degree in elementary education and English. Betty and her husband, Richard, were in a couples bowling league together. They enjoyed gardening, landscaping, and reading. They also traveled extensively throughout the United States and abroad. Betty was a wonderful elementary school teacher and gave her all to help every child within her classroom. She was preceded in death by father R. Otis Carpenter ’26 and husband Richard; she is survived by daughter Sharon and five grandchildren.
William H. Miller ’53
Jan. 12, 2024 — Bill worked as a thoracic surgeon. He served as a base surgeon in the United States Air Force from 1959-1961. He worked as a cardiac surgeon in Pittsburgh from 1969-1993 at Shadyside Hospital, Forbes Health System, and St. Margaret Memorial Hospital where he was Chief of Surgery. He is survived by wife Sally, daughters Jennifer, Rachel, and Sara, and five grandchildren.
Carmon Ellis Sollenberger ’53
June 22, 2023 — Carmon received a degree in sociology while at Juniata. He will be dearly remembered by loving friends and family.
Robert P. Bridenbaugh ’54
Jan. 24, 2024 — Robert started his medical practice in 1963, and only missed two days of work in the 38 years of his professional career. He loved spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. He enjoyed camping with his sons, deep-sea fishing, reading, tennis, and beekeeping. Robert was preceded in death by wife Donna and siblings George Bridenbaugh ’47, Edwin Bridenbaugh ’51, and Mary Jane (Bridenbaugh) Hinish ’56; he is survived by sons Andrew Bridenbaugh ’86 and Benjamin Bridenbaugh ’87, and six grandchildren.
David M. Hercules ’54
Jan. 20, 2024 — David received his PhD in analytical chemistry from MIT in 1957. He taught chemistry at Juniata from 1960-1963, and then at MIT from 1963-1969. He later taught chemistry at University of Georgia, University of Pittsburgh, and Vanderbilt University. David was an accomplished scientist and received many awards for his achievements including the Spectroscopy Society of Pittsburgh Award, the American Chemical Society National Award in Surface Chemistry, the American Chemical Society National Award in Analytical Chemistry, and the Alexander von Humboldt Prize. David is survived by wife Shirley (Hoover) Hercules ’66, daughter Sherri (Hercules) Sokolovich ’97, son Kevin, and four grandchildren, including Katie Correia ’10.
Jeanie W. (Tait) Mourikas ’54
Oct. 25, 2023 — Jeanie taught high school English in New Jersey and New York. She also worked at the Peabody Essex Museum in Salem and volunteered at the Peabody Institute Library in Danvers, Mass. Jeanie provided a loving home to the cats she adopted. She played piano, was in a handbell choir, and in her later years took up painting. Jeanie was preceded in death by husband Charles; she is survived by daughters Marianne and Karen, and two grandsons.
Carol E. (Lowdermilk) Schaffner ’54
Jan. 10, 2024 — Carol graduated from Juniata with a bachelor’s degree in elementary education in 1954, the same year she married husband, Clair. She was an active member of the First Baptist Church of Geneva and volunteered for many community organizations. Carol was preceded in death by husband Clair Schaffner ’51, brother Donald Lowdermilk ’57 and son Scott; she is survived by daughters Diane, Bonnie, and Lori, and seven grandchildren.
Ruth L. (Walker) Stewart ’54
Aug. 26, 2023 — Ruth worked as a nurse both in the public and private spheres. She enjoyed ensuring that children had access to the best possible health care. She loved singing, choral, and orchestral music, theater, and traveling. She traveled both nationally and internationally with the Philadelphia Boys Choir and the Philadelphia Youth Orchestra. Ruth was preceded in death by husband William; she is survived by daughter Phoebe, and sons Bradley and Stephen, and two grandchildren.
John D. Keiper ’55
Aug. 21, 2023 — John and his wife, Joyce, served various Churches of the Brethren for over 50 years. John enjoyed classical music, travel, camping, antiques, cars, emails, and peace concerns. John was preceded in death by father D. Howard Keiper, Class of 1924, mother Nancy (Graybill) Keiper, Class of 1924, and wife Joyce; he is survived by dear friends.
Sylvia E. (Shuler) Byers ’56
Oct. 12, 2023 — Sylvia earned her master’s degree from Penn State and went on to teach in elementary schools in Elizabethtown, Pittsburgh, and Rochester, NY She also worked at her church’s daycare. Sylvia was devoted to raising her children and enjoyed cross-stitching, ceramic painting, and singing. She supported numerous Christian ministries and participated in women’s bible studies. Sylvia was preceded in death by mother Grace (Madeira) Shuler ’56, husband R. Lee Byers ’58 and brother Luke Shuler ’49; she is survived by sons Timothy and Stephen, daughters Anne and Lara, and six grandchildren.
Vivian F. (Livingston) Confer ’56
Nov. 28, 2023 — Vivian worked as a high school math teacher before becoming a cataloger at the Public Library of Union County. She enjoyed reading, gardening, and doing crossword puzzles. Vivian was preceded in death by husband Larry Confer ’56 and son Jeffrey; she is survived by sons Jonathan and Gregory, daughter Lisa, and four grandchildren.
Margaret R. (Sims) Cunningham ’56
Sept. 4, 2023 — Margaret taught elementary music education before transitioning to be executive assistant to the dean at Widener Delaware Law School. She enjoyed working on puzzles, being in gardens, and spending time with friends and family. She founded and directed the chorus at Maris Grove Senior Living Community for 10 years. She was preceded in death by husband Robert, and former spouse Charles; Margaret is survived by children Linda and Carl, stepchildren Kathleen and Michael, and two stepgrandchildren.
Barbara A. (Ehly) Harned ’56
Dec. 31, 2023 — Barbara retired as a teacher in the Mechanicsburg Area School District. She was a devoted member of the Mechanicsburg Church of the Brethren, serving as a deacon, financial secretary, and a member of all four commissions. Barbara was preceded in death by husband Ellis; she is survived by son E. Michael, daughter Ann, and two grandchildren.
Alfred P. Nyce ’56
July 11, 2023 — Al had a career in banking for 29 years before retiring as an employee of Core States Bank in 1998. He was a devoted member of the Ambler Church of the Brethren and a charter member of the Ambler Choral Society. Al was a former member of the Juniata College Church-College Relations Council. After retiring, he volunteered for the Food Bank of the Hatfield Church of the Brethren, the American Cancer Society, and Family Promise Montco. Al enjoyed singing, the Philadelphia Orchestra, sports, non-fiction reading, and traveling. He and his wife Betty Lou traveled to 47 of the 50 states, as well as 20 countries. Al was preceded in death by siblings William Nyce ’48 and Gwen (Nyce) Hartzel ’49; he is survived by wife Betty Lou and daughter Jacqueline.
Bernard M. Oriss ’56
Sept. 13, 2023 — Bernie taught social studies and history for the Woodland Hills School District until his retirement. He was twice awarded the Pennsylvania State Education Association Teacher of the Year Award. Bernie was a veteran of the U.S Air Force, and he served in the Korean War. He was the coach and athletic director for Scott High School, North Braddock, and was inducted into the East Boro Hall of Fame for Basketball and Baseball. Bernie enjoyed golfing, gardening, and attending events for his grandchildren. Bernie was preceded in death by brother James Oriss ’62; he is survived by wife Rosalie (Langer) Oriss ’57, son Timothy, daughter Karen, and four grandchildren.
Richard E. Kramer Jr. ’57
Sept. 27, 2023 — While at Juniata, Dick received the Stanford Mickle Award for distinction in athletics. He worked for the General Electric Company for 36 years before retiring from the Lockheed Martin Corporation in 1995. He served on Juniata’s Alumni Council and Board of Trustees as an Alumni Trustee. He volunteered following his retirement, including being the President of the Rotary Club of Lancaster South from 2000-2001, and was active in his local churches. In addition to their own children, Dick and his wife were surrogate parents to their two nieces. Dick was preceded in death by wife Carol (Jenkins) Kramer ’57; he is survived by his daughters Laurie and Leslie, and two grandchildren.
Rosalie M. (Langer) Oriss ’57
Oct. 28, 2023 — Rosalie taught elementary school in Allentown and North Braddock, Penn. before she retired. She enjoyed crafts, sewing, gardening and was a dedicated member of St. Agnes Parish. Rosalie was preceded in death by husband Bernard Oriss ’56; she is survived by son Timothy, daughter Karen, and four grandchildren.
Vernon C. Brown Jr. ’58
Aug. 9, 2023 — After graduating from Juniata, Vernon served in the United States Army in Germany and was honorably discharged with the rank of SP5. He worked at the Red and White Supermarket in Greensburg, Penn. and then became a sales representative for Nabisco. He was promoted to Nabisco Headquarters where he worked in the Marketing Department, Merchandising, Product Manager, and Statistical Analysis. Vernon appeared in the 1972 National Award Volume of Outstanding Young Men of America by the United States Jaycees. He is survived by wife Linda, children David, Brian, Matthew, and Aimee, and seven grandchildren.
William J. Hartman ’58
Jan. 15, 2024 — Bill attended Juniata before graduating with his degree from Lock Haven University. He worked as a teacher and principal in the Mifflin County School District for over 35 years. Bill organized the Teacher’s Credit Union which is now known as the First Area Credit Union. He served as board president for 50 years. He was a member of the Chief Logan Lions Club and Trinity United Church of Christ where he taught Sunday school for more than 50 years. He also sang in the choir and served as president of the church council. Bill volunteered for Meals on Wheels and the Lewistown Hospital. Bill is survived by wife Edwina, sons Brent and Cory, daughter Deborah, and nine grandchildren.
James L. Butler ’59
Nov. 22, 2023 — Jim served in the United States Army for two years before graduating with a biology degree from Juniata. Jim worked as an environmental scientist specializing in water quality management at Gwin Dobson & Foreman Engineers for 28 years. He enjoyed music, hunting, fishing, biking, skiing, and tennis. Jim was preceded in death by daughter Amy; he is survived by wife Doris (Brumbaugh) Butler ’59, daughters Susan and Diann, son Norman, and five grandchildren.
Michael H. Miller ’59
Oct. 11, 2023 — Mike retired as the vice president of finance at Blaw Knox Construction Equipment Company. He was a member of the Mattoon Country Club and the St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church. He enjoyed golfing, traveling, walking his faithful dog, Scooter, and spending time with his family. He is survived by wife Linda (Kerr) Miller ’60, daughters Karen and Valerie, and a grandson.
Judith E. (Barrowclough) Taylor ’59
Nov. 26, 2023 — Judith received a degree in elementary education while at Juniata and then her master’s degree at Stephen F. Austin State University. She taught language arts and then was principal of Humble Elementry School in Humble, Texas.
Dorothy V. (Marker) Wierer ’59
Oct. 27, 2023 — Dottie worked as a home demonstration agent for 4-H and homemakers’ clubs. After marrying she moved to a small Appalachian town where her husband worked as the town doctor, and Dottie as his office manager. Dottie traveled with her family throughout Europe and hosted foreign exchange students from Spain and Costa Rica. She loved birdwatching, family picnics, and going on walks. Dottie is survived by husband Charles, daughters Kristi and Karlynn, and one grandson.
Hans G. Schroeder ’60
Nov. 12, 2023 — Hans worked as a general contractor with his brother Wes. Their company, Schroeder Brothers, served the Bucks County area for over 50 years. Hans was one of the earliest proponents of the Libertarian Party in Pennsylvania and was their local candidate for U.S Congress in 1980 and 1982. He enjoyed going on cruises, but skiing was his true passion, holding a season pass to Blue Mountain until his death. He was dedicated to the many dogs he and his wife, Judith rescued during their time together. Hans was preceded in death by wife Judith.
Darcey F. Bohince ’62
Nov. 4, 2023 — Darcey worked as a dentist for 33 years before retiring in 2004. He loved games, golfing, traveling, working in his yard, and rooting for all Pittsburgh sports teams. He also painted murals for his family and did woodworking. Darcey was preceded in death by sister-in-law E. Carol (Young) Knepper ’56; he is survived by brother-in-law Telford Knepper ’55, daughters Rebecca and Kerin, and four grandchildren. Sadly, Darcey’s wife Judy (Knepper) Bohince ’62 passed away several weeks after him.
Judy A. (Knepper) Bohince ’62
Jan. 21, 2024 — Judy taught chemistry and physics at the high school and college levels. She was a member of the Delta Kappa Gamma Society International, an honors society for female educators. She won the Presidential Award for Excellence in Science and Mathematics Teaching from the National Science Foundation, the American Chemical Society High School Chemistry Teacher Distinguished Service Award, the Virginia Electric Energy Council Outstanding Teacher Award, and was a Tandy Technology Scholars Outstanding Teacher National Finalist. She dedicated herself to helping students both in and outside of the classroom and served as a coach for the physics competition teams and varsity cheerleading squad. Judy was preceded in death by father Forrest Knepper ’27, husband Darcey Bohince ’62, and sister-in-law E. Carol (Young) Knepper ’56; she is survived by brother Telford Knepper ’55, daughters Rebecca and Kerin, and four grandchildren.
Lydia A. Eastburn ’63
Nov. 1, 2023 — Lydia graduated from Temple University Medical School and Loma Linda University’s OB-GYN residency program. She practiced obstetrics and gynecology at Providence Hospital in Anchorage, Alaska from 1974–2002. Lydia was also a clinical professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the University of Washington College of Medicine. She loved travel and reading, and she especially took an interest in the accomplishments of women. Lydia is survived by sister Celia.
Gail A. (Vesta) Ulager ’63
Feb. 5, 2024 — Gail majored in mathematics at Juniata and worked as a math teacher for the Moon Area School District, and was a remedial math coordinator and instructor at Robert Morris College. She was a devoted member of St. Margaret Mary Catholic Church. Gail and her husband were proud of their Slovenian heritage and were involved in their local Slovene-American community. Gail loved to read and to bake. Gail is survived by husband Frank, daughters Lisa and Linda, son Jim, and seven grandchildren.
Marie A. Zeller ’63
Dec. 26, 2023 — The summer after Marie graduated from Juniata, she participated in the March on Washington. She often looked back on this event with great pride. Marie settled in San Francisco in 1969 and developed her interest in city planning while working for future United States Senator Dianne Feinstein. After managing Feinstein’s office during her mayoral campaign in 1971, Marie joined the City of San Francisco Planning Department. She worked as a city planner and was also a member of the City’s Planning Commission. She served Juniata as a member of Alumni Council and the Board of Trustees. Marie loved her home, her cats, yoga, tai chi, and visiting family. Marie was preceded in death by mother Juanita (Holsopple) Walker ’40; she is survived by many loved ones including niece Carrie Zeller ’00.
Stephen W. Burger ’65
Dec. 13, 2023 — Steve taught for 33 years, and much of that time was spent teaching third grade at Troy Elementary Center East. He also served in the Army Reserves for 31 years as an instructor for combat engineers. Steve is survived by wife Judith (Rose) Burger ’65, daughters Sharon and Kari, and eight grandchildren. Steve and his wife, traveled to all 50 states and over 40 National Parks.
Kenneth Howie III ’68
Dec. 8, 2023 — Kenneth started his career as a teacher, and then transitioned to the role of counselor for high schools in the Easton area. He changed careers and retired as director of human resources for a pharmaceutical company. Kenneth loved music and was dedicated to karaoke nights at his local American Legion Veteran’s Association. He enjoyed basketball, tennis, trivia, piano, and was an avid Eagles fan. Kenneth loved to spend time with his friends and family. He is survived by wife Virginia, sons Kirk and Jason, daughters Jennifer, Sebrena, and Julie, and 10 grandchildren.
John R. Hayes ’69
Sept. 30, 2023 — John was the assistant football coach at Tyrone High School from 1969-1978 before becoming the head football coach at Bellwood-Antis High School from 1980-2017. He amassed 323 wins, numerous district, and conference championships, and three appearances in the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association state semifinals. He was inducted into the Central Pennsylvania Coaches Association Hall of Fame in 2010, the Pennsylvania State Coaches Association Hall of Fame in 2019, and the Blair County Sports Hall of Fame in 2020. He will be remembered fondly by those in the Bellwood-Antis community, especially his former athletes and coworkers. He was preceded in death by son Joshua; he is survived by wife Victoria.
James C. Zeger ’69
Dec. 29, 2023 — Jim taught math from kindergarten to the college level at the Maryland Correctional Institute. He also served as Mayor for Mercersburg for a time. Jim and his wife dedicated themselves to volunteer causes in their local community. They volunteered for Meals on Wheels, the Tuscarora School Board, the Franklin County Democratic Party, and the Mercersburg Lion and Lioness Clubs. Both Jim and his wife were recipients of the Melvin Jones Award, the highest honor from the Lion’s Club. Jim was preceded in death by wife Linda; he is survived by daughters Heather and Holly and three grandchildren.
Clyde J. Gwinn ’70
Aug. 2, 2023 — Clyde received a degree in biology from Juniata and went on to receive his medical degrees from Hershey Medical Center in 1974 before persuing a long career in medicine.
Janice C. (Fodor) Dudek ’71
Dec. 24, 2023 — Jan worked as a farm manager for an environmental education center, a counselor for a group home for adults with developmental disabilities, and as a bookkeeper for a local company. She taught at Sharon Daycare Center for almost 25 years before retiring in 2019. Jan volunteered for many environmental causes and always made time to work at town hall on election day. She loved to travel, and enjoyed camping trips, beach trips, and trips to National Parks. Jan was preceded in death by sister Susan (Fodor) Kime ’69; she is survived by husband Mike, son Ben, and daughter Sarah.
Thomas G. Hollinger ’72
Dec. 24, 2023 — Thomas worked at First Penn National Bank in Philadelphia and continued to be interested in the banking field for his entire life. He moved to Connecticut in 1981 and was an active member of the community there as a Little League coach, President of the Clinton Touchdown Club, and a member of the Board of Finance and Town Council. He enjoyed spending time with his friends and family and would travel to Aruba annually. He was a devoted fan of all Philadelphia sports. Thomas is survived by wife Sarah, sons John and David, and four grandchildren.
James M. Smith ’72
Jan. 5, 2024 — Jim loved his family and his church. He enjoyed entertaining and playing the piano. His favorite sports teams were the Orioles, Ravens, and Hokies. Jim is survived by wife Linda Mae, daughter Jennifer, son Michael, and six grandchildren.
Eric A. Crouch ’73
June 10, 2023 — Eric received a degree in psychology from Juniata. He was preceded in death by his parents, Howard Crouch, and Hazel Crouch, both retired Juniata employees. He will be remembered by dear friends and loved ones.
Stephen A. Gelnett ’73
Dec. 29, 2023 — Steve worked for construction companies throughout his career and retired as the vice president of sales for the CUNICO Corporation. He was active in the First Assembly Church of God and was a leader in the Royal Ranger Program. Steve and his wife Barbara, opened their home to a wide variety of people, such as foreign exchange students and unhoused individuals. Steve is survived by wife Barbara (Gahan) Gelnett ’73, brother Thomas Gelnett ’79, sons Benjamin and Jacob, daughter Alison, and five grandchildren.
Timothy E. Jablonski ’73
Dec. 4, 2023 — Tim graduated from Juniata with a degree in history. He was known for making friends wherever he would go and would always greet people with a smile. He is survived by wife Katie, son Jason, and brother Michael Jablonski ’74.
Noreen M. O’Connell ’76
Nov. 15, 2023 — Noreen worked as a paralegal for the Phoenix Life Insurance Company and later TransAmerica. In her retirement, she gardened, spent time with friends, and traveled. Noreen’s favorite place to visit was Anguilla in the Caribbean. She was a wonderful baker. Noreen is survived by her partner, Ronald.
Charles H. Weatherby ’76
Dec. 31, 2023 — Charles began his career in his family business, selling John Deere farming equipment. He later owned and operated a laundromat for many years. After he retired, he spent time as a limo driver and a stay-at-home dad. He was a member of the Pitman United Methodist Church and enjoyed boating, golfing, farming, and family trips. He is survived by wife Mary Katherine, sons John and Tyler, and daughters Kelly and Kaitlyn, and one grandson.
Tay R. Waltenbaugh ’79
Dec. 17, 2023 — Tay worked as the chief executive officer at Westmoreland Community Action for nearly 30 years. He also founded Westmoreland Human Services, Inc. Tay dedicated his life to helping raise people out of poverty. For his contributions to the community, he was recognized by the Mary Riegler-Chislaughi Friend of the Poor Pittsburgh Community Food Bank and the Greensburg/Jeannette NAACP. He received the Seton Hill University Entrepreneurial Excellence Award as well as the Top 100 People in Central Pennsylvania and Beyond Award from Pennsylvania Business Central. He enjoyed the outdoors, hunting, fishing, and spending time with his family. Tay is survived by wife Brenda, children TR, Lane, and Kara, and two grandchildren.
Lori A. (Mengel) Fischer ’84
June 30, 2023 — Lori taught for 20 years at Lower Dauphin School District, briefly taking a break to raise her children and work in the children’s ministry of her church, the Lebanon Area Evangelical Free Church. Through her ministry, she supported the American Foundation for Children with AIDS. Along with 14 other women, she raised money for this organization and climbed Mount Kilimanjaro. Lori enjoyed knitting, board games, bird watching, camping, participating in Bible study, and taking pictures. What she most enjoyed in life though, was spending quality time with her friends and family. Lori is survived by husband Samuel, sons Caleb and Seth, and stepson Matt.
John R. Skoner ’86
Aug. 7, 2023 — John graduated from the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine in 1990 and decided to specialize in endodontics. He became the 1,122nd endodontist to be certified by the American Board of Endodontics. He published three clinical articles in the Journal of Endodontics. In addition to his private practice, he taught in the endodontic clinic at the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine. He valued his time at Pitt, instructing the next generation and learning new technologies. John loved his entire family, colleagues, patients, and friends. John is survived by his brother David Skoner ’76.
Michael G. Schell ’88
Jan. 11, 2024 — Michael was the lead engineer for McGuire Nuclear Station. He was a member of St. Mark’s Catholic Church and a former member of Holy Name of Jesus Catholic Church. He enjoyed exercising, fishing, and hunting. Michael was preceded in death by wife Christina (McDonald) Schell ’87.
Valerie S. (Schmoyer) Ford ’90
Sept. 21, 2023 — Val enjoyed teaching and homeschooled her children prior to working at Dock Mennonite Academy and Souderton Area High School. She was extremely dedicated to her children and will lovingly be remembered by them. She served in college campus ministry, Christian camping, tutoring, and nannying. Val loved biology, as she donated her body to science to continue to teach and serve others. Val is survived by husband Michael Ford ’82 and children Jacob, Emma, Nicole, and Rebekah Ford ’19.
Brenda (Laverty) Armstrong ’93
Feb. 27, 2023 — Brenda worked at Yale University in the Environmental Health and Safety Office for 30 years. Brenda enjoyed spending time with her family, kayaking, having BBQs, walking her dogs and being in the woods. In the past couple of years, Brenda and Josh hiked throughout New England, traveled to Spain, Canada, Turks and Caicos and several National Parks. Her most important work in life was raising her sons Jake and Ryan. Brenda is survived by husband Josh and sons Jake and Ryan.
Andrew S. Maxwell ’96
Jan. 3, 2024 — Andrew was the featured master brewer at John Harvard’s Breweries in Philadelphia and then Pittsburgh. He then became head brewer and Chief Operating Officer at Rivertowne Brewing. He earned multiple gold and silver medals at national brewing competitions. Andrew enjoyed saltwater angling, boating, and watching his children succeed in whatever they set their mind to. Andrew was preceded in death by grandparents Samuel Livengood ’38, Ollie (Meyers) Livengood ’38, LeRoy Maxwell ’36, and Pauline (Kauffman) Maxwell ’35; he is survived by wife Melissa (Lutz) Maxwell ’95, parents LeRoy Maxwell Jr. ’63 and Judith (Livengood) Maxwell ’65, uncle Samuel Livengood ’76, brothers John and David Maxwell ’92, sister-in-law Krista (Hawbaker) Maxwell ’93, and children Aengus and Finley.
Daniel C. Tanner ’96
Jan. 9, 2024 — Daniel served in the United States Marine Corps during the Vietnam War and was honorably discharged in 1971 with the rank of Private First Class. He received the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Vietnam Cross of Gallantry, and the Combat Action Ribbon. He worked as a correctional officer at SCI Rockview, Bellefonte for almost 20 years before receiving his degree in social studies from Juniata. He taught at Juniata Valley High School until he retired in 2011. He was also a former continuing education substitute at Juniata. He was a member of Wesley Chapel United Methodist Church. Daniel is survived by wife Betty, sons Daniel and Michael, daughter Dorothy, and 11 grandchildren.
Scott D. Woolcock ’98
Sept. 24, 2023 — In high school, Scott distinguished himself on the soccer, basketball, and baseball teams, and he continued to play soccer at Juniata. He was previously an enrollment counselor for Juniata and was currently employed as an independent contractor. Scott was an avid reader and fan of all Philadelphia Sports Teams. He cherished the time spent with his three beloved children. He is survived by sister Hope (Woolcock) Hand ’99 and children Lucas, Sophia, and Shane.
Dion J. Lattanzi ’18 g’19
Jan. 16, 2024 — Dion received his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in accounting from Juniata. He played basketball and football in high school and continued his football career while at Juniata. He worked for iPipeline in their accounting department and was known for his hard work and dependability. Dion enjoyed playing video games and spending time with his friends and family. Dion is survived by his parents, brothers Gregory and Anthony, and sisters Jada, Jasmine, and Shaquasha.
Galen T. Miller-Persico ’22
Sept. 18, 2023 — Galen graduated with a degree in economics from Juniata. He will be dearly remembered by father Matthew, mother Amanda, stepfather Joe, and loved ones.
Mark R. Hochberg
Dec. 17, 2023 — Mark attended the University of Pennsylvania and Cornell University. He taught English literature at Juniata for 47 years. Mark is survived by wife Susan, children Jonathan, Joanne, Kate, Tom, and Maggie; and four grandchildren. He was preceded in death by son Andrew.
Harriet B. Kaylor
Nov. 5, 2023 — Harriet received a bachelor’s degree in education from Manchester College in Indiana and then her master’s degree and Ph.D. in curriculum instruction from Penn State University. Harriet began her career teaching English Conference at Juniata. She then taught elementary school in a two-room schoolhouse with one other teacher. In the 1970s, Harriet began teaching social studies at the newly built Huntingdon Area Middle and High Schools. Harriet volunteered for the Pennsylvania State Prison Society for over 25 years, becoming a well-known visitor and advocate for prisoner rights. She received an honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters degree from Juniata in 2019. Harriet enjoyed traveling the world with her family and was an avid gardener, walker, reader, puzzler, and 5k runner. She was an integral part of the Stone Church of the Brethren. Harriet was preceded in death by husband Earl Kaylor Jr. ’46; she is survived by sons David and Jonathan, daughter Susan, and six grandchildren.
J. Peter Trexler
Oct. 24, 2023 — Pete received his bachelor of arts and master of science degrees from Lehigh University in 1950 and 1953 and earned his Ph.D. from the University of Michigan in 1964. He served in the United States Navy as a radioman for two years. Pete began his professional career as a geologist with the Lehigh Portland Cement Company and was subsequently employed by the United States Geological Survey. He began his career as a professor of geology at Juniata in 1962. In 1976, he was the recipient of the college’s Beachley Distinguished Teaching Award. Pete retired in 1989. He was a member of the Huntingdon Presbyterian Church, where he served as an elder for several terms. Pete loved to travel and was proud to have visited more than 50 countries and all U.S. states except Alaska and Hawaii. He was preceded in death by wife Virginia; he is survived by daughters Margaret and Virginia, and four grandchildren.