Forever Juniata

Hilda (Horner) McCreight ’41
Oct. 28, 2025 — Hilda was Juniata’s oldest living alum at the age of 105. She completed her bachelor’s degree in home economics at the Carnegie Institute of Technology. During World War II, Hilda worked at the Pentagon as a nutritionist. Throughout her life, Hilda devoted herself to charitable institutions such as United Against Gun Violence, PBS, and the Wisconsin Prison Partnership. She loved cryptograms, playing bridge, and knitting. Hilda was preceded in death by father Miles Horner, Class of 1913, mother Lucille (Gump) Horner, Class of 1917, and husband Jim; she is survived by sons Ed, Will, and Mac, daughter Peg, and seven grandchildren.

John M. Grasse Jr. ’48
Aug. 14, 2025 — John completed his undergraduate education at Goshen College and received his M.D. from Jefferson Medical College in 1952. Through the Mennonite Church, John served as a missionary physician in Puerto Rico, Nigeria, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. He also worked with the U.S. Government’s Indian Health Service, serving communities in California, Montana, North Dakota, and South Dakota. John later maintained a private practice for 40 years in Ephrata, Pa. He was deeply committed to his family and community. John loved gardening, traveling, reading, and music. He was preceded in death by wife Betty; he is survived by daughters Elizabeth, Linda, Sandra, and Martha, son John, and 11 grandchildren.

Iva L. Yoder ’52
Sept. 29, 2025 — Iva taught at William Smith School in Huntingdon, Pa. for 33 years. She enjoyed reading, doing crossword puzzles, and listening to audiobooks. Iva loved being outdoors and spending time with her cats. She taught Sunday School at Otelia Mennonite Church and Barrville Mennonite Church and volunteered at Big Valley Thrift & Gift. Iva is survived by loving friends and family.

Nancy (Blanck) Brown ’54
Aug. 20, 2025 — Nancy and her husband were avid birders, and they enjoyed traveling the country with Elderhostel. She sang in church choirs all her life, most recently at Salem Hellers Church Cantata Choir in Lancaster. Nancy taught Bible study at Zion Church and for the Millersville Council on Aging. She was preceded in death by first husband Glenn; she is survived by husband James, sons Steven, Bradley, Kevin, and Brian, daughters Nancy, Jill, and Amy, and 11 grandchildren.

Janet (Cline) Champion ’54
Oct. 16, 2025 — After graduating from Juniata, Janet worked for the Central Intelligence Agency until 1956, when she and her husband relocated to Spain. While living in Spain, Janet worked at the Resident Construction Office until they returned to the U.S. She had a lifelong passion for gardening, cooking, and entertaining family and friends in her gazebo. Nancy was preceded in death by husband Robert Champion ’53 and brother George Cline ’58; she is survived by son David and two grandchildren.

Jacquelyn (Hayes) Gibbons ’57
Oct. 18, 2025 — Jacque graduated from Temple University School of Medicine in 1961. She started her pediatric practice in 1966, where she worked until her retirement in 2014. Jacque was a longtime member of Saint Mary Magdalen Parish, where she also served as the organist and choir director for over 20 years. Jacque was a former member of the Juniata Alumni Council. She was preceded in death by mother Marion (Commons) Hayes, Class of 1929; Jacque is survived by son Richard Gibbons ’83, daughter Lynn, brother Arthur Hayes ’71, and six grandchildren.

Martin T. Grothe Jr. ’57
Aug. 16, 2025 — Ted played golf at Juniata and received a degree in business. He worked alongside his father and brother at Grothe Supply Company. Ted specialized in advertising. He was a lifelong member of St. John Lutheran Church, where he also sang in the choir. Ted was preceded in death by wife Gail and daughter Jaime; he is survived by sons Ted, David, and Jonathan, stepdaughter Cheryl, and eight grandchildren.

E. Reed Reynolds ’57
July 12, 2025 — Reed worked for B.F. Goodrich, where he managed plants in Ohio, North Carolina, and South Carolina. He retired after 29 years as V.P. of Human Resources. Reed was a member of the Free and Accepted Masons, serving as past master of the New Franklin Lodge in Akron, Ohio; he was also on the director’s staff of Tadmor Shrine. Reed was Past Imp and Past Director of Akron Court No. 80 of the Royal Order of Jesters, a masonic fraternal organization. He enjoyed gardening and playing golf. He was preceded in death by wife Delores.

James M. Stayer ’57
April 23, 2025 — After graduating from Juniata, Jim received his master’s degree from the University of Virginia and his Ph.D. from Cornell University. In 1968, he moved to Canada and became a full professor at Queen’s University, Ontario, teaching history until his retirement. Jim contributed to the study of Anabaptists in the sixteenth-century German Reformation. He retired in 2000 but continued to teach as an adjunct professor for 10 years. Jim was preceded in death by father Raymond Stayer, Class of 1922, sister Martha (Stayer) Alfano ’61, and ex-wife Marcia Sweet ’60; he is survived by wife Sherry, daughter Elizabeth, sons William and James, step-children Dawn, Darryl, and Ryan, and seven grandchildren.

H. Carl Beck ’60
April 12, 2025 — Carl received a bachelor’s degree in physics from Juniata. He worked for the Department of Defense for almost 40 years. Carl learned woodworking from his father, and he specialized in marquetry wall art and furniture. He also enjoyed creating gemstone jewelry for loved ones. Carl was preceded in death by wife Frances; he is survived by son Mark, daughters Ann and Cara, and four grandchildren.

Milton C. Chew Jr. ’60
Nov. 22, 2025 — Milton received his Ph.D. from Carnegie Mellon University. He worked at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute of New York before immigrating to Canada in 1974, where he taught at Saint Mary’s University in Halifax. Milton served as Chair of the Department of Finance, Information Systems, and Management Science at the Sobey School of Business. He was a lifelong baseball fan — first cheering for the Phillies and Red Sox before proudly declaring himself a Blue Jays fan. Milton enjoyed birdwatching and refinishing antique chairs. He was preceded in death by first wife Joyce; Milton is survived by wife Barbara, brother William Chew ’64, daughter Gabrielle, son Adam, step-sons Rick, Rob, and Randy, and eight grandchildren.

Elizabeth A. (Clark) Funk ’60
Nov. 26, 2025 — Betty Ann received a master’s degree from the Drexel Institute of Technology in 1964. She worked in the Pennsylvania Department of Library Development for 36 years until her retirement in 2003. Betty Ann spent most of her career traveling to different libraries throughout the state, offering advisory services. She was preceded in death by husband James Funk ’58; she is survived by sons Harry and Thomas and four grandchildren.

Clayton O. Yeager ’60
Jan. 22, 2026 — Clay received a bachelor’s degree in history from Juniata. He worked in the insurance industry in Pennsylvania and Connecticut. Clay enjoyed reading historical novels, golfing, gardening, and hiking. He is survived by wife Kathleen, daughters Denise and Jill, son Dean, and five grandchildren.

Donna J. (Zwick) Davis ’62
Dec. 13, 2025 — Donna received a bachelor of arts in early childhood education from Juniata and a master of library science from the University of Pittsburgh. She worked for most of her career as a Senior High Librarian for the Greater Latrobe School District. After retiring from public schools, Donna spent 16 years as a reference and early childhood librarian for the Greensburg-Hempfield Area Library. Along with her husband, Donna traveled to all 50 states, Canada, and Europe. Donna was preceded in death by sisters Joanne (Zwick) Gordon ’61 and Geraldine (Zwick) Suvak ’64; she is survived by husband Donald Davis ’63, sisters Cheryl Zwick ’69 and Shelby Zwick ’71, daughters Jennifer and Heather, son Donald, and eight grandchildren including Maurice Slinger ’17.

Harold L. Royer ’62
Sept. 9, 2025 — Hal taught biology and coached football early in his career. He worked at Conestoga Valley School District in the guidance office for nearly 30 years. Hal was an active member of St. Paul’s United Methodist Church. He was an avid outdoorsman, enjoyed hunting and fishing, and owned a chicken farm. Hal was a passionate fan of the Phillies, Eagles, and Nittany Lions. He was preceded in death by wife Mary; he is survived by son Matthew, daughter Michelle, and four grandchildren.

M. Louis Browdy ’63
Dec. 10, 2025 — After graduating from Juniata, Lou worked as a cook for the Army Reserves at Fort Knox, where he was an honor graduate of the Cooks and Bakers School. He transferred to Saga Food Service in Northern California, working as an internal auditor for the company. After relocating with his family to Carpinteria, Lou served his community through the local Boy Scout Troops, Avocado Festival, Kiwanis Club, and El Montecito Presbyterian Church. He met his wife Karen at Juniata; her first impression was during his senior class president campaign speech, which Lou delivered without notes in a Yogi Bear costume. He is survived by wife Karen (Scott) Browdy ’63, daughter Kara, and son Loren.

Geoffrey W. Funk Sr. ’63
Aug. 21, 2025 — Jeff is fondly remembered by dear friends and loved ones. He was preceded in death by father John Funk ’35, mother Phyllis (Walker) Funk ’33, and brother James Funk ’58; he is survived by wife Natalie and brother John Funk Sr. ’66.

Nancy (Cassada) Nelson ’63
Oct. 24, 2025 — Nancy worked at the New Jersey Department of Transportation for most of her career. She was a historian who loved genealogy; she was a member of the Genealogical Society of Pennsylvania and was known for her knowledge and expertise. Nancy enjoyed reading, sewing, knitting, volunteering, and listening to country music. She is survived by daughters Jennie and Rachel and six grandchildren.

Doris J. (Eichelberger) Comerford ’64
Jan. 9, 2026 — Doris received her bachelor of science in education from Penn State. In 1965, she began teaching at Juniata Valley Elementary School, where she worked for 30 years until her retirement. Doris was an active member of Stone Church of the Brethren, where she assisted with the monthly newsletter, knitted shawls for the prayer shawl ministry, and was a member of the embroidery guild. She enjoyed quilting, baking, doing puzzles, and feeding birds. Doris was preceded in death by husband John Comerford Sr. ’50, former professor of biology, and second husband Edward; she is survived by sons John Comerford Jr. ’76 and David, daughter Jean, and 12 grandchildren, including Lucas Corbin ’15.

Beatrice A. (Schorsch) Hueglin ’64
Dec. 25, 2025 — After graduating from Juniata, Bea received her master’s degree from Temple University. She taught Special Education in the Philadelphia School System until her retirement. Bea traveled extensively in Italy and Greece. She was preceded in death by mother Beatrice (Branda) Schorsch ’36; Bea is survived by ex-husband Robert Hueglin ’63 and sister Christy Schorsch ’65.

William P. Utley ’64
Oct. 28, 2025 — Bill received his bachelor’s degree in history and accounting from Juniata. He worked in data processing, programming, and manufacturing cost analysis. Bill retired to Trinity, Fla. in 2017. He loved playing cards, traveling with his family, and learning Civil War history. Bill was an avid sports fan and never missed an opportunity to watch his children and grandchild play. He is survived by wife Rosalie, daughter Elizabeth, son Stephen, and one grandchild.

John L. Armstrong Jr. ’65
Nov. 12, 2025 Jack served as the Executive Vice President of Technical Operations at CorMedix Inc. until his retirement in 2021. He worked for 40 years in the pharmaceutical and biotech industry at ICI, Marion Labs, and DuPont Merck. Jack was a devoted member of St. Andrew’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, serving as a member of the Church Council and the Endowment Board. He was a wine connoisseur and loved to host tastings. Jack is survived by wife Jennifer, sons John and Lucca, daughters Isabella and Jean, and three grandchildren. 

Nancy J. (Williams) Peters ’66
Oct. 14, 2025 — Nancy retired as an administrator for the State of Colorado and enjoyed golf, gardening, travel, biking, and volunteering. She was preceded in death by husband Richard.

Alaine D. (Siena) Tremel ’66
Jan. 8, 2026 — Alaine worked for the public school system in Ellicott City, Md. She loved teaching children and encouraging them to read. After their own children left home, Alaine and her husband relocated to Egg Harbor Township, N.J., where she continued to work as a librarian and teacher. Alaine’s favorite event was Read Across America Day, where she would dress up as the Cat in the Hat, decorate the school, and read Dr. Seuss books to the students. She loved book clubs, craft groups, and going to the beach. Alaine is survived by husband Michael Tremel Jr. ’65, son Damon, daughter Meredith, and four grandchildren.

Roy R. Heinz ’67
July 5, 2025 — Roy lived in Helena, Montana. As a student, he was an active member of campus life, participating in intramural sports, Masque, the Outing Club, and Kvasir. Roy is survived by dear friends and loved ones.

George H. Patterson Jr. ’67
Oct. 10, 2025 — George served as a Delaware State Trooper and was known by his colleagues as “The White Knight,” a reflection of his commitment to courage, loyalty, and honor. He loved NASCAR, photography, cars, football, and crime television. George was preceded in death by father G. Harold Patterson ’39 and mother Evelyn (Hood) Patterson ’39; he is survived by wife JoAnne and stepdaughter Stephanie.

Gregory S. Gohn ’68
June 15, 2025 — After graduating from Juniata, Greg served in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers until 1971. He served in Vietnam and reached the rank of First Lieutenant. After leaving the military, Greg received his Ph.D. in geology from the University of Delaware in 1976. He specialized in Mid-Atlantic Coastal Plain Geology throughout his career at the U.S. Geological Survey. After retirement, Greg began researching his family history by visiting Pennsylvania graveyards and historical societies. He is survived by wife Kathleen, sons Dave, Steve, and Toby, daughter Libby, and four grandchildren.

Alice J. (Isenberg) O'Loughlin ’68
July 18, 2025 — Jo received a master of arts in English literature at NYU. She worked as a journalist covering steel, nonferrous metals, and other process industries. Jo was an executive editor of “American Metal Market,” and headed the editorial operations of the daily edition for more than a decade. She received the Jesse H. Neal Award for excellence in business journalism. Jo is survived by husband Joey and son Aran.

William G. Foster ’69
Nov. 24, 2025 — Bill enjoyed joking and telling stories, and he was known for his own contagious laugh. Bill was a veteran of the U.S. Navy and was proud to have served his country. He loved sports, especially rooting for the Yankees and the Ravens. Bill was preceded in death by father James Foster ’39; he is survived by wife Cathy, daughter Brooke, son James, and two grandchildren.

James A. Hamilton ’69
Oct. 10, 2025 — After graduating from Juniata, Jim received his Ph.D. in biochemistry from Indiana University in 1974. In 1978, he was recruited by Boston University School of Medicine to establish a Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Facility. Jim retired from Boston University as a full professor in 2023. He was motivated by a desire to help others, leading him to co-found Euclid, a company focused on cardiovascular health. Jim contributed widely to the fields of chemistry and medicine through hundreds of published papers with over 18,000 citations. He never lost his passion for the next paper, conference, or scientific discussion. Jim is survived by wife Malina, daughter Lianna, son Guy, and two grandchildren.

Eldbjørg (Eide) Dubbel ’70
Oct. 27, 2025 — Eldbjørg grew up in Norway, where she developed a lifelong love of learning and nature. In 1957, Eldbjørg began her 40-year career at the Grier School in Tyrone, Pa. She taught history and geography, later serving as assistant head of school and dean of international students. Eldbjørg was a dedicated member of both the American Association of University Women (AAUW) in Huntingdon and the Huntingdon Presbyterian Church. She was preceded in death by husband Silas Dubbel Jr. ’58 and daughter Ingrid Dubbel ’88; she is survived by daughters Kristin and Kari Dubbel ’84.

Lynn A. Eyerman ’70
Dec. 5, 2025 — Lynn graduated with a bachelor’s degree in business from Juniata and began her career working at a publishing house in New York City. She moved to Phoenix in the 1970s and in 1978, she joined Brookdale Community College as a Career Counselor. Lynn helped generations of students find their future careers. She is survived by loving friends and family.

Marie M. (Ottemiller) Kutz ’71
Feb. 2, 2026 — After graduating from Juniata, Marie began her career working for her family’s machine shop, William H. Ottemiller Company. In 1989, she moved to Franklin County, Pa. and was employed as a medical assistant at Mont Alto Family Practice and later for Chambersburg OB-GYN Associates. Marie was a passionate fan of Penn State football and an accomplished pianist and singer. Marie loved animals, especially horses and rabbits; she rescued rabbits and was a member of BunnyPeople, a domestic rabbit rescue, adoption, and education organization. Marie is survived by husband Hugh.

Greta J. (Wenger) Smithson ’72
June 29, 2025 — Greta owned the Moose’s Antler, a gift shop in Gorham, N.H. She enjoyed interacting with her customers. Greta loved crafting, including card making and knitting. She is survived by husband John, son Geoff, daughter Jill, brother Lloyd Wenger Jr. ’77, and four grandchildren.

Cynthia (Smith) Zodda ’74
July 29, 2025 — Cindi graduated with a bachelor’s degree in education from Juniata and moved to Harrisonburg, Va. in the early 1980s, where she began a 34-year career with Rockingham County Public Schools. Even after she retired in 2019, Cindi continued to teach by homeschooling, tutoring, and working as a teacher’s aide. She was preceded in death by father Joseph Smith Jr. ’46, and sister Crystal (Smith) Nicolosi ’70; Cindi is survived by son Ryan, daughter Courtney, and two grandchildren.

Sarah (Young) Fisher ’75
Oct. 27, 2025 — Sarah earned dual degrees in math and biology from Juniata and was a graduate of the Pennsylvania Bankers Trust School and ABA National Graduate Trust School. She held national certifications in the field of estate planning. Sarah served as vice president and senior officer at Fulton Bank in Lancaster before joining Hershey Trust Company. She later founded Fisher Advisors, which merged with RKL Wealth Management, where she helped grow assets to over $1 billion. In 2024, Sarah retired as President Emeritus to spend more time with family. She authored seven financial education books. In 2022, Sarah received the College's Alumni Achievement Award, which honors those who have reached a pinnacle position in their chosen profession. She served as a member of the Juniata Alumni Council before serving on the Board of Trustees until her passing. Sarah was preceded in death by husband Dallas Fisher Jr. ’72; she is survived by son Robert, daughter Mary, and one grandchild.

Henry F. Siedzikowski ’75
Dec. 16, 2025 — Henry earned a bachelor’s degree in politics from Juniata and graduated at the top of his class from Villanova University Charles Widger School of Law. He practiced law for more than 45 years, served as the President of Elliot, Greenleaf, and Siedzikowski for two decades, and was nominated more than 25 times as a Philadelphia Super Lawyers honoree. Henry’s lifelong commitment to civic responsibility and protecting the vulnerable earned him the trust and respect of judges, clients, and opposing counsel. At home, he loved to cook, play guitar, and garden. Henry’s loved ones noted his generosity, strength, and rare ability to sit quietly with others, comforting them in times of sorrow without needing words. He returned to Juniata as a trustee in 2011, serving until his passing. Henry is survived by wife Mary Rita, daughter Allie, and three grandchildren.

William H. R. Clemens Jr. ’77
Aug. 13, 2025 — Bill earned his bachelor’s degree in accounting and business from Juniata and went on to hold financial management positions in the manufacturing, corporate, and healthcare arenas, including many years at Teleflex, Inc. and Challenger Electrical Equipment Corporation. He retired from Catholic Health Initiatives, where he worked in IT systems implementation. Bill was actively involved with the Class of ’77 and fundraising for the College. His travels took him to all seven continents, and he enjoyed playing pickleball and gardening. An active resident in the retirement community of Normandy Farms Estates in Blue Bell, Pa., Bill served as treasurer of the resident executive committee, chaired the landscape committee and was recognized for his commitment to “strengthening the community and inspiring others to make a difference.” He is survived by his husband Bob Leis, his sisters Susan Antorino-Perry and Carol Merwine, and many friends who dearly miss him.

Scott G. Letcher ’78
Oct. 6, 2025 —After graduating from Juniata, Scott attended the University of Pennsylvania and received a master's degree from New York University. He worked for many years as a psychotherapist in New York City before retiring to Vermont, where he lived on a farm with alpacas, chickens, pigs, and dogs. Scott is survived by partner Todd.

Nancy A. Brunner ’79
Aug. 20, 2025 — "Tate" received her master of science in clinical psychology and her Ph.D. in neuropsychology, followed by a long and rewarding career providing mental health services to those in need. She remained an avid reader throughout her life and loved spending time outdoors, running, hiking, and traveling. Tate will be remembered for her kindness, quiet introspection, and steadfast loyalty to her friends. She is survived by wife Maggie.

Timothy P. Burgin ’84
July 19, 2025 — Timothy earned his Ph.D. in chemistry from Indiana University - Bloomington. He researched organic and materials chemistry, nanotechnology, surface chemistry, and chemical synthesis, and he made significant contributions to the fields of chemical and biological defense. Timothy loved hiking, working in the woodshop, reading, and watching movies with his sons. He is survived by wife Rebecca and sons Daniel and Christian.

Deborah A. Cole ’84
Oct. 4, 2025 — Deb received a master’s degree in analytical chemistry and microbiology from Indiana University of Pennsylvania. She joined the New Jersey State Police Office of Forensic Sciences in 1989. Deb was instrumental in developing an understanding of synthetic cannabinoids and worked with the state’s Attorney General to pass laws controlling these substances. After 9/11, she volunteered at the New York City Office of the Chief Medical Examiner to help identify victims. Deb loved music, and she played in many bands throughout her life. She is survived by daughter Kylie.

Ruth A. (Woodrow) Bancroft ’85
Aug. 17, 2025 — Ruthie was an independent, hard-working registered nurse who enjoyed getting together with her Juniata friends. Ruthie is survived by father Thomas Woodrow ’58, emeritus professor of education, and daughters Julia and Laura Bancroft ’15. 

Amy R. (Lane) Moore ’88
Aug. 27, 2025 — Amy worked as an auditor for Penn National Insurance Co. until her retirement. She was a member of the Quilters Guild of Blair County, Pa. and a social member of the Janesville Veterans of Foreign Wars. Amy is survived by husband Jeffrey.

Dale E. Miller Jr. ’97
Nov. 13, 2025 — Dale received a bachelor’s degree in management and went on to work at First National Bank. He played basketball at Juniata and continued his love of sports throughout his life. Dale especially enjoyed sharing his passion for sports with his son; they could often be found playing catch with a football, shooting hoops in the driveway, or golfing at Toftrees. Dale is survived by wife Ashley and son Grayson.

Brittany J. Barbera ’06
Oct. 19, 2025 — Brittany was a singer, songwriter, author, and potter. She loved going to the beach, especially basking in the sun. Brittany enjoyed relaxing in her hammock, taking long walks, and spending time with friends and family. She is survived by husband Jack and daughter Jackie.

Rebecca L. (Dix) Plane ’08
Dec. 10, 2025 — Becky discovered her passion for teaching young children at the Early Childhood Education Center (ECEC) on the Juniata campus. She loved connecting children with nature through arts and crafts. After the ECEC closed, Becky joined the State College Friends School. She kept many houseplants and a water garden, and she planted milkweed in her backyard to help monarch butterflies during migration season. Along with the Stone Church community and her family, Becky volunteered at the Asturias Academy in Quetzaltenango, Guatemala, which provides affordable or no-cost education for poor and indigenous students. She loved bringing joy to children through teaching. Becky is survived by husband Dennis Plane, professor of politics, son Austin, and daughter Rosemary.

Seikah R. Roberts ’15
Dec. 30, 2025 — Seikah graduated from Juniata with a bachelor’s degree in environmental science. She returned to Maine after graduation and worked at the Belgrade Lakes Association and in the office of The Shipyard at Boothbay Harbor. In 2020, Seikah moved to Denver and worked at Arkose Tax and Consulting. She loved exploring Colorado, swimming, cows, and dogs. Seikah could make friends wherever she went, and she was always there to lend a listening ear. Seikah is survived by mother Janet and birth mother Diane.

Mason G. Kazakavage ’25
Dec. 28, 2025 — Mason was born in China and adopted by his parents shortly after birth. He graduated from Lewisburg High School in 2021 before attending Juniata. Mason was employed as a graphic designer at RP Management, Inc. and at Giant Foods. He loved creative pursuits and was a self-taught guitarist and keyboardist. Mason recently became interested in architectural stippling, and many of his works were commissioned pieces. At Juniata, he was a member of the tennis team, the jazz ensemble, and band. Mason could always be counted on to lend a helping hand. He is survived by father James, mother Kim, and sister Lydia.