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Santella & Axe Funeral Home, 1106 8th Avenue, Altoona, PA (2026)

12/31/2025

MELISSA D. “MITZ” SEEVERS
1971 - 2025

Melissa D. “Mitz” Seevers, 54, Gallitzin, passed away Monday at UPMC Altoona. She was born in Altoona, daughter of the late Welhelm and Phyllis (Park) Seevers.
She is survived by her loving and adoring fiance of 29 years, Eric Bradley; 3 sisters: Christina “Kiki” (Jeffrey) Bradley, Crystal “Bucky” (Mike) Helsel and Brandee “Bambi” (Mike McCaulley) Seevers; close nephews: Shane, Dustin, Scott and Kenneth; and many other nieces and nephews.
Mitz was preceded in death by two brothers, William and Thomas Seevers.
Mitz worked as a private caregiver. She enjoyed camping, shopping, decorating and going to the casino. She loved her dog, cat and chickens, but especially loved spending time with her family.
She attended Saint Aloysius Church in Cresson.

Friends will be received from 2pm to 4pm and 6pm to 8pm on Sunday, January 4, 2026 at Santella Funeral Home, where a funeral service will follow the visitation at 8pm. Interment will be at Grandview Cemetery.

https://www.santellafuneralhome.com/obituary/Melissa-Seevers

12/27/2025

We extend our deepest sympathies to the family of DOMENICK A. RAGO whom a private funeral Mass was held for at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church.

Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord,
and let perpetual light shine upon him.
May his soul and all the souls of all the faithful departed,
through the mercy of God, rest in peace.
Amen

https://www.santellafuneralhome.com/obituary/Domenick-A-Rago

12/26/2025

RONALD E. SETTLE
1935 - 2025

Shortly after zero hundred hours on 22 December 2025, United States Army CWO2 Ronald Eugene Settle (Retired) received his final orders. God had called His faithful servant home.
Ron was born in Altoona on 6 February 1935, the son of William and Martha (Decker) Settle.
Following his 1953 graduation from Altoona High School, Ron embarked on a 20 year career in the U.S. Army. He proudly served his country from stations all over the world, including Afghanistan, Finland, Iran, Vietnam and West Germany.
He also served numerous stateside assignments, among them Massachusetts, Pennsylvania and Virginia.
It was during his time in Finland, working as an attaché for the United States Embassy in Helsinki, Ron met the love of his life. On 3 May 1963, he married Anna-Liisa Heikkila. They shared 56 years of marriage until her death on 25 June 2019.
Ron retired from the military in 1973 and went on to work in a number of other capacities, most notably as a code enforcement officer for the City of Altoona and caseworker for the Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare.
Among Ron’s hobbies were bowling, computers, handyman projects, playing cards and travel. Ron and Liisa traveled extensively before his health declined, most frequently to the family cottage in the Finnish countryside.
He also enjoyed cooking, videography, watching westerns and listening to music like Eddy Arnold, Jim Reeves and Hank Williams.
In addition to his parents and wife, Ron was preceded in death by siblings Richard (Dick), Dolores (Doddie), William (Wild Bill), Betty (Bet) and Melvin (Beanie) along with numerous nieces and nephews.
He was also predeceased by beloved pets including Missy, Prettygirl, Lucky, Ash and Blackie.
Ron is survived by his loving son Tom of Altoona, who was honored to be his caregiver for the final years of Ron’s earthly life. He is also survived by sisters-in-law Shirley Settle of Altoona and Terttu Wachtler of Frankfurt, Germany,
nieces and nephews in Finland, Germany and the USA plus faithful pets Sisu, Baby, Precious, Tony, L.B and MiniMe.
A shout out to the caring staff at the Hollidaysburg Veteran’s Home where Ron spent the final 15 months of his life. Special thanks to family friends Tom Gray, Pastor Elizabeth Hess and Lori Smith for taking the time to visit Ron is his last days.
At Ron’s request, there was no viewing nor memorial service at this time. Per his Dad’s wishes, Tom plans to take his parents cremains back to Finland to be interred with his grandparents in the local church village cemetery.
Ron could be a difficult man at times and was known for enjoying a good argument. He especially liked dealing with telemarketers LOL. Ron had a great sense of humor, one of his favorite sayings was when asked how he was feeling,
he’d say...with my hands (making gestures). At the same time, he was a very generous and compassionate person. He touched the lives of many up until his final days. Ron really mellowed in the end and was truly at peace with himself and his maker. May God bless and keep you until we meet again.

https://www.santellafuneralhome.com/obituary/Ronald-Settle

12/25/2025

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays from our family to yours 🎄
During this sacred season, we reflect on the true meaning of Christmas—the gift of love, hope, and light brought into the world. We hold close in our hearts all who may be grieving or missing a loved one, and we extend warmth, comfort, and peace to every family we serve🕯️❤️

12/24/2025

Manté L. Barnes
1995-2025

Manté L. Barnes, 30, of Altoona, Pennsylvania, entered into eternal rest on Thursday, December 18, 2025 in Altoona. Manté was born in Altoona, PA, on June 13, 1995, to Derrick Jones and Rona Barnes, just minutes before his loving twin, whom he has rejoined in the kingdom of heaven, Marshé Barnes.
Manté is survived by his loving sister, Carlona M. Brevard of Altoona; his “Pops,” Carl J. (Stephanie Clark) Brevard of Altoona and his mother Carol Brevard of Pittsburgh, PA., his sisters: Joyce J. Brevard of Austin, TX., and his sister, Cheyanne M. Washington, of Altoona; aunt, Rhonda White (William White), of Altoona; uncles, Richard Barnes (Linda), of Altoona; and Uncle Charles White of Pittsburg, PA., aunt, Kimberly Hatfield, of Pittsburgh; aunt, Jeannette Jones-Hill (Larry Hill), of Bowie, Maryland; aunts: Lee Grace Jones, of Pittsburgh; Linda Jones, Gaithersburg, Maryland, Naomi Jones, of Cleveland, Ohio, Marcia Hawkins of Simpsonville, South Carolina and aunt, Kay-D Lane, of Butler; as well as a slew of cousins and loving friends.
In addition to his twin, Marshé, Manté is preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Sharon Barnes and Henry Brown; his paternal great-grandmother, Vera White; his aunts and uncles, William “Buggy” Barnes, Evelyn Hatfield, Marcella Madden and Ronnie Barnes.
Manté was Christian by faith and grew up as a member at Mt. Zion Baptist Church. Manté was a graduate of Altoona Area High School in the class of 2013 where he was a three sport athlete getting his letter for Varsity Sports in Football, Wrestling and Track & Field, where he excelled in Pole Vault. Manté was in Honors classes, excelling academically, as well. Manté had a radiant smile and made a friend out of anyone. He worked hard at anything he put his mind to and most recently pursued a mixed martial arts career training in Jujitsu, Tae Kwon Doe, and Boxing all based off his wrestling foundation, where he racked up over 70 victories throughout his high school career. Manté also loved playing baseball in his younger years, being one of the leading home run hitter every year he played at East End for McAbee’s subs.

Friends and family will be received for a viewing on Friday, January 2, 2025 from 4 PM until 8 PM at the Axe and Santella Family Chapel, 1534 4th Street, Altoona, PA., 16601.
A Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, January 3, 2025 at 12 Noon at Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church, 2121 5th Ave. Altoona PA 16602, with a viewing from 10 AM until the time of the Funeral Serivice.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be donated in Manté’s name to TMC Funeral Funding to help with funeral expenses https://www.tmcfunding.com/funds/funeral-expenses-for-mant-l-barnes/15042/

The family would like to extend and invitation for folks to join them immediately after the services at Mount Zion for a repass and celebration of Mante's life at Father Kelly Hall, 2412 5th Street, Altoona, PA., 16601. All our welcome to come share your stories and fun times shared with the wonderful twins.

https://www.santellafuneralhome.com/obituary/Mant-Barnes

12/18/2025

DOMENICK A. “PAP” RAGO
1930 - 2025

Domenick Anthony "Pap" Rago, 95, of Altoona passed away on December 16th surrounded by his living family. He was born April 1, 1930 to the late Louis and Clara (Valentino) in Altoona, PA.
He married Rose Marie (Colabove), the love of his life, at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church November 26,1955. They were married 54 years until her death in 2010.
Domenick is survived by his brother; Michael (Annette); his children: Dawn Marie Showalter (Scott McClellan) and Julie Wolford (Don), of Altoona; daughters-in-law: Brigitte, of Altoona and Penny, of Painesville, OH; and his beloved grandchildren: Nathan (Deann Bralley) and Christopher, of Ohio, April (James Gray), Domenick (Kristen), Rebecca (Curt Endress), Adam Showalter (Ashley), Sara Hockenberry (Zachary) and Regina Schirf (Matthew), all of Altoona; along with his great grandchildren, nieces, nephew and cousins.
Domenick was preceded in death by his parents; wife; sons: Mark and Louis; brother, John; sister, Rachael (Petrone); and great-grandson Jacob Rago.
Domenick attended Altoona Schools and was a US Marine, serving state side as an aircraft mechanic during the Korean War. He retired from his 30 year service at Butterick Company Inc. in 1992.
Domenick was a dependable and resilient man, an artist at heart, often painting and drawing. He truly enjoyed music, listening to his CDs daily, along with a cup of coffee and a Tw***ie. He also loved hot sunny days sitting on his front porch. Mostly, Domenick was a man that loved his family and ALL children, especially his grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Thank you to the Santella and Axe Funeral Homes for the service of preparation and committal by Calvary Cemetery.
At the request of deceased, there will be no public viewing and, at the convenience of the family, there will be a private service.
In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, 806-11th St. Altoona, PA. 16602.

https://www.santellafuneralhome.com/obituary/Domenick-A-Rago

12/06/2025

Tommy E. Lacy Funeral Service

Friends and Family are invited to Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church, 2121 5th Avenue, Altoona, PA., 16602 for a Visitation from 10 AM until the start of the Funeral Service at 11 AM with Rev. Carla Gregory-Beckton.

11/27/2025

Fr. Leonard John Blostic
1934-2025

Reverend Leonard John Blostic T.O.R., of the Third Order Regular Franciscans of the Province of the Immaculate Conception, USA died on Tuesday, 25 November 2025 in Hollidaysburg, PA.
Father Leonard was born on 5 August 1934 in Cokeburg, PA, the child of Michael and Eva (Skavinsky) Blostic. He was given the name John at Baptism. Father Leonard entered the Franciscan Preparatory Seminary, Hollidaysburg, PA in 1954 and professed Solemn Vows on 26 June 1959. He was ordained to the priesthood on 8 June 1963 at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, Washington DC.
Father Leonard served the Church and the Franciscan Community in a variety of ministries. In the Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown he was an Assistant Chaplain at Garvey Manor, Hollidaysburg and an Instructor at the Franciscan Preparatory Seminary, Hollidaysburg, and Bishop Carroll H.S., Ebensburg. He also served as an Instructor in the Diocese of Richmond, VA at James Barry Robinson H.S., Norfolk, and in the Diocese of Youngstown, OH at John F. Kennedy H.S., Warren.
In his later years, he served as Parochial Vicar in the Diocese of Altoona- Johnstown at the former St. Anthony Parish, Johnstown, Our Lady of Mt. Carmel, Altoona, and in the Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston, WV at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish, Stonewood. Fr. Leonard also served the Province Mission in Paraguay by preaching Mission Appeals throughout the United States. In recent years, he was in residence at St. Bernardine Monastery and, at the time of his death, at Garvey Manor, both in Hollidaysburg, PA.
Those who knew him remember Fr. Leonard as a gentle and prayerful spirit, always ready to extend a smile and a blessing. Having grown up in a large family, he was an able cook and accomplished baker, often filling the friaries he lived in with the aroma of breads, pies, cakes and other goodies. Fr. Leonard also made hand crafted pottery and had a great appreciation for the arts. As an Instructor, he was always prepared for his classes and was admired and respected by students and faculty alike
Father Leonard was preceded in death by his parents and 16 brothers and sisters. He is survived by two sisters, Sr. Eve Blostic, OSF and Sr. Wanda Blostic, OCD, and one brother, Edward (Kathy) Blostic, many nieces and nephews, dear friends, and his Franciscan Community.

Visitation, concluding with a Vigil Service, will be held on Monday, 1 December from 4:00 – 6:00 PM at the Church of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Altoona, PA. On Tuesday, 2 December there will be a Funeral Mass at the church at 10:30 AM with the Very Reverend Father Frank Scornaienchi, T.O.R., Minister Provincial, as the principal celebrant. Interment will take place after Mass in the Community Cemetery at St. Bernardine Monastery, Hollidaysburg. A luncheon will follow at the Monastery. Memorial gifts in Father Leonard’s memory may be made to the Franciscan Friars’ Retirement Fund, P.O. Box 139, Hollidaysburg, PA 16648.

https://www.santellafuneralhome.com/obituary/FrLeonard-Blostic

11/27/2025

PETE C. CIAVERELLA JR.
1949-2025

Pete C. Ciaverella Jr., 76, Altoona, passed away Monday at his home, with his daughter by his side. He was born in Altoona, son of the late Pete C. Sr. And Miriam (Civils) Ciaverella. He later married the love of his life, Marlene Schmid and she preceded him in death in December 2024.
He is survived by a daughter, Gina (Tim) Clossin; a son, Pete (Kelly) Ciaverella; 3 grandchildren: Carley, Brianna and Timothy Jr. “TC”; a great-granddaughter, Audrey; 3 brothers: Clair (Deb) Ciaverella, Larry (Mary) Ciaverella and Marty (Cindy) Ciaverella; a brother in law, Michael (Jacqui) Schmid; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Pete was preceded in death by 2 sisters: Mary K. Lightner and Annette McClain.
Pete was a 1967 graduate of Altoona High School. After high school he joined the United States Air Force earning several distinctive medals including the National Defense Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal with a Bronze Service Star, the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal and the Air Force Good Conduct Medal.
He was a “Jack of all Trades” kind of guy, working various jobs throughout his lifetime. He last worked as the account manager for the Blair County Community Action.
Pete will always be remembered for his love of music, the times he spent dancing with Marlene and his hunting and camping trips with his brothers. He also enjoyed going to the fairs with Marlene, playing board games at home and playing Chess with his granddaughter, Brianna.

Friends will be received from 10am until the 12pm funeral service on Monday, December 1, 2025 at the Santella Funeral Home. Interment will be at Calvary Cemetery.

https://www.santellafuneralhome.com/obituary/Pete-CiaverellaJr

11/27/2025

TOMMY E. “TEE” LACY
1960-2025

Tommy E. “Tee” Lacy, 65, of Altoona, entered into eternal rest on Sunday, surrounded by family, at his home. Tommy was born in Plymouth, North Carolina, in Washington County, on February 23, 1960 to Lucy Mae (Peel) and the late Edward L. Lacy, Jr.
In addition to his father, Tommy is preceded in death by a brother, Michael Lacy.
Tommy is survived by his loving wife, Tina Lacy, whom he married at Tuckahoe Park on June 14, 1997 in Altoona, as well as his loving children: Valerie L. Pattillo, of Bowie, Maryland, Ashley N. (William Clark) Lacy of Gilbert, Arizona, and Tomeka R. (DJ) Greene of Harrisburg, PA.; his mother, Lucy Mae Peel; his siblings: Bruce Lacy, Theresa Lacy, Antonio Lacy, Kenneth Lacy, Lisa (Jeremy) White, and Patricia Lacy; his grandchildren: Maliqua (Brian), Lee, Amari, Ginia, Zayn, Jayla, and Zuri; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Tommy was a man of many trades in construction after serving our country in the U.S. Army.
Tommy loved music, movies and especially spending time with his family.

Friends and family are welcome at 10am with a funeral service to begin at 11am on Saturday, December 6, 2025 at Mt. Zion Baptist Church, 2121 - 5th Ave. Altoona PA 16602. All are welcome to stay for a lunch at the church following the service.

https://www.santellafuneralhome.com/obituary/Tommy-Lacy

11/25/2025

The Santella & Axe Funeral Homes believe in offering a wide variety of services that fit your family’s grieving needs. Cremation services offer flexibility, customization, and the closure of seeing and spending time with your loved one as well as honoring your loved ones wishes.

All Veterans deserve recognition for their Honor, Dignity and dedication to serving our Country. Reach out to The Santella & Axe Funeral Homes to find out what benefits your Veteran loved one could be eligible for 🇺🇸

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