Visneski Funeral Home Inc, 42 W Mahoning Street, Danville, PA (2026)

04/09/2026

Martha Jane Ross, 87, of Lewisburg, PA passed away peacefully April 8, 2026, at Nottingham Village in Northumberland PA. She was born on May 14, 1938, in Sunbury, PA; the daughter of the late Edward W. and Gladys P. (Delp) Whitmer.

Martha graduated from Trevorton High School.

She was preceded in death by her devoted husband and love of her life for 64 years, Thomas H. Ross, who preceded her in death on July 30, 2021. They were married on August 24, 1957.

Over the years, she worked as a dental assistant, contributed to the nurturing growth in a greenhouse where she raised hydroponic tomatoes, and ventured into the fields of real estate and sales as a representative for Market America.

Along with her husband, they attended several churches in the area. Martha was a Cub Scout & Girl Scout Leader and was also involved with Lewisburg Christian Women’s Club for many years.

Martha was a dedicated housewife, who spent her years nurturing her home and spreading joy to those around her. Her faith in Jesus was the cornerstone of her existence, and she found great fulfillment in sharing His love with others. Martha’s warmth and kindness touched the lives of many, and her legacy of compassion will endure in the hearts of all who knew her.

Martha’s greatest enjoyment in life was spending time with her family and her friends.

She is survived by sons: Tom E. Ross and wife Tammy of Selinsgrove, Todd G. Ross and companion Jeanne Potratz of Selinsgrove; daughter: Tami S. Long of Milton; nine grandchildren: Andrew, Melissa and husband Jon, Kirsten, Colin and wife Niki, Leah and husband Chris, Jessica and her husband Kyle, Cody and wife Katey, Victoria and her husband Tyler, and Justin and his wife Masy; fifteen great-grandchildren: Macie, Gretchen, Weston, Jocelyn, Sutton, Elliana, Banks, Titus, Adeline, A.J., Isaac, Townes, Alaina, Cassidy, and Avery. Martha is also survived by one sister, LouAnn Shaffer and her husband William of Sunbury, PA.

In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by one sister, Joyce Marquette.

A heartfelt thank you to the staff of Nottingham Village Heather Court for their love and compassion.

Private services and burial will be held at Mt. Presbyterian Church Cemetery in Paxinos, PA at the convenience of the family.

Memorial contributions may be made to Northumberland Christian School 351 5th Street Northumberland, PA 17857.

Arrangements are under the direction of Visneski Funeral Home, Inc 42 West Mahoning Street Danville PA 17821. www.visneski.com.

04/07/2026

Jerry Michael Hettinger, age, 75 of Danville, PA, passed away on Tuesday March 31, 2026, in Sebring, Florida. He was born on May 2, 1950, in Danville, Pennsylvania, the son of the late Robert C. and Florence (Wenrich) Hettinger.

He graduated from Danville Jr/Sr High School in Danville. He also graduated from the Nuclear Naval in 1972.

He was married to the love of his life, Lucy Hettinger for 57 years, who survives. They were married for 55 years on November 7, 1970.

Jerry proudly served his country in the United States Navy. He served on the USS Fulton Submarine Tender and also served on the USS Stonewall Jackson as the Commanding Officer for Interior Communications Electrician First Class. He was honorably discharged by the US Navy on August 22, 1978.

Jerry found immense joy in hunting and fishing. Family was at the core of Jerry's existence. He treasured every vacation and trip taken with his beloved wife, Lucy, and their family. From enchanting adventures to Walt Disney World to the breathtaking landscapes of Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Park. In quieter moments, Jerry loved to tinker in his work shed. He also delighted in driving through the scenic roads of Pennsylvania and Florida alongside Lucy, reveling in the beauty of wildlife and the simple pleasures of life. His adventurous spirit extended to airboat rides, which brought him adrenaline and excitement. A dedicated golfer, Jerry approached the sport with enthusiasm and camaraderie. Jerry also had a knack for flea marketing, where he enjoyed finding treasures and connecting with others who shared his passion for unique items.

Jerry was a beacon of light, always quick with a joke and a smile that could brighten the darkest of days. Known affectionately as "Mr. Fix-it," Jerry possessed an extraordinary talent for mending not only physical objects but also the hearts of those in need. His ability to bring comfort and joy to others was matched only by his love for ice cream, where he served as the ultimate Ice Cream Concierge, delighting young and old alike.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his furry companions, Emma, Sonya, and Willow. Jerry is also survived by one son; Brian Hettinger and his wife Amy of Millville, PA and one daughter; Trinitie McGilloway and her fiancé Jesse Titus of Millville, PA, as well as four grandchildren; Alec Hettinger, Dharma Deihl and her husband Kyle, Taylor Long and Morgan Long. He is also survived by two brothers: Gary Hettinger and his wife Bonney and Tim Hettinger and his wife Eileen as well as one sister Nancy Schneider.

In addition to his parents, Jerry was preceded in death by one grandchild: Charlie Hettinger and one brother, Robert Hettinger.

Services will be held at a later date.

The family will provide flowers. Memorial contributions may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.

Arrangements are under the direction of Visneski Funeral Home, Inc. 42 West Mahoning Street, Danville, PA 17821. www.visneski.com

04/07/2026

Raymond Vaughn Tobias, 86, of Danville PA, passed away unexpectedly in Lake Placid, Florida on March 20, 2026. He was born September 27, 1939, in Shamokin, PA, the son of the late Clyde and Catherine L. Lenhardt Tobias.

He graduated from Sunbury High School in1957 where he played football and was a member of the ROTC. He proudly served his country in the United States Marines from 1958-1961. Ray continued to serve with the ROTC after his discharge.

Ray is survived by his devoted wife of 49 years, Heather Alicia Wenzel Tobias whom he married on September 1, 1976.

He was a member of Stonington Baptist Church and an associate member of Sonshine Christian Fellowship in Lake Placid, FL. His other memberships included Masonic Blue Lodge & AM in Sunbury, PA, 32nd Degree of Caldwell Consistory AASR, Loyal Order of Moose, The Elks and attended the American Legion in Lake Placid.

Ray was employed as an aluminum welder for Dorsey Trailers in Northumberland, PA for 19 years, from where he retired.

An avid outdoorsman, he enjoyed hunting, fishing and loved farming. His greatest joy was camping with his family. He also enjoyed late model dirt track car racing. He will be remembered as a loving and devoted husband and father who enjoyed spending quality time with his family.

In addition to his wife, he is also survived by one stepson, Charles H. Todd and his wife Barbara of Downingtown, PA and two daughters: Dawn Alutius of Pottstown, PA and Holly Tobias of Millville, PA; 10 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. Also surviving is one sister, Beverly Miller and her husband Harold of Middleburg, PA.

He was preceded in death by his son, Raymond V. Tobias, Jr. on September 4, 1996. He was also preceded by three brothers: George, Clyde, Jr. and Kenneth.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Graveside Service to be held on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, at 1:00 PM at Northumberland Memorial Park in Stonington, PA where Masonic rites will be held as well as military rites with the Danville American Legion Post 40 Honor Guard and the United States Marines Honor Guard. Ray was also a life member of the Stonington Fire Department.

Memorial Contributions in Ray’s memory may be made to SonShine Christian Fellowship 5 Andre Street Lake Placid FL 33852

Arrangements are under the direction of Visneski Funeral Home, Inc. 42 W. Mahoning Street, Danville, PA 17821. www.visneski.com

04/06/2026

Mary Agnes Auten, 90, of Danville, PA, passed away peacefully on April 4, 2026. She was born on December 3, 1935, in Danville, PA, the daughter of the late Raymond and Rosella Walker Bloskey.

She graduated from Danville High School.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband of 68 years, Harold Wayne Auten on January 3, 2026.

Mary was a dedicated employee for over 40 years in the Secretarial Supervisors Department at Geisinger Medical Center, from where she retired.
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She attended Shiloh United Church of Christ in Danville, PA.

Mary enjoyed boating, camping, fishing, accompanied by her family. She especially loved traveling with her husband on Golden Eagle Coach Tours.

She will be remembered for her love of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, all of whom she adored.

Mary is survived by one devoted daughter, Diane Marie Pardoe and her husband, Larry of Danville; two grandsons, Martin W. Mensch and his wife Tabitha of Ohio and Michael R. Mensch of Danville PA; and four great-grandchildren: Marcus, Merrick, Mira and Evelyn.

A Celebration of Mary’s Life will be held at the convenience of the family.

Arrangements are under the direction of Visneski Funeral Home, Inc 42 West Mahoning Street Danville PA 17821. www.visneski.com.

04/03/2026

Brian Bird, 57, of Riverside, PA, a man whose life was rooted in the land and fueled by the roar of a tractor, passed away peacefully, April 2, 2026, with his loving family by his side. He was born on August 2, 1968, in Bloomsburg, PA; the son of David L. and Norma A. (Woodruff) Bird of Catawissa, PA.

Brian graduated from Danville Area High School in 1987.

He was a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church, Mayberry Township; the Danville Moose; the Danville Future Farmers of America; the International Harvest Club #17; Buffalo Valley Antique Machinery Association as well as the Montour Antique Farm Machinery Collector’s Association.

Brian was a farmer through and through, finding his greatest joy in the fields and the community that surrounded them. Known for his competitive spirit and mechanical skill, he was a fixture at tractor pulls, especially red Farmall Tractors where he spent countless hours doing what he loved most. Whether he was in the driver’s seat or tinkering in the shop, Brian’s passion for the sport and the farming way of life was unmistakable. He also enjoyed hunting. Brian was a beacon of kindness and selflessness, always dedicated to helping others and enriching the lives of those around him.

He leaves behind a legacy of hard work and devotion to his family. In addition to his parents, Brian is survived by his children, Jason Bird, Brittany Annis and her husband Joseph, and Trenton Bird and his fiancé Jessica Schooley, who were his pride and joy as well as his cherished grandchildren, Kylynn and Kayson, who brought a special light to his later years.

He was preceded in death by one brother, Andrew Bird in 1986, one grandson, Kamdyn Annis, his maternal grandparents, Lee & Alice Woodruff and his paternal grandmother, Arlene (Newberry) Bird.

To honor Brian’s life and the many stories he left behind, a Celebration of Life Party will be held Sunday, April 19, 2026, from 2:00 PM-4:00PM at the Montour Delong Fair Grounds, 5848 Broadway Road, Danville, PA 17821. In the spirit of how Brian lived, the family encourages friends and neighbors to remember him the next time they see a freshly plowed field or hear the rumble of a heavy engine.

He will be deeply missed by his family, his friends in the pulling community, and all who knew him.

The family will provide flowers. Memorial contributions may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.
Arrangements are under the direction of Visneski Funeral Home, Inc 42 West Mahoning Street Danville PA 17821. www.visneski.com.

04/02/2026

Thankful on this day for the Last Responders in our County…our Coroners…

Many times forgotten..many days and nights they come upon some of the most heart wrenching situations we can barely imagine…and have been overwhelmed with deaths that would tire any of us physically and mentally.

They are on call and leave their families at a moment’s notice. They have huge compassion and relentless drive.

No one is applauding when they pull out of their garages in the middle of the night…….

Well… we are….. today❤️

04/01/2026

Robert A. Caradonna, 66, of Montoursville, PA, passed away on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, at Geisinger Medical Center, Danville. He was born on February 3, 1960, in Alexandria, Virginia, the son of the late Robert P. and Doris (Abate) Caradonna.

Bob earned an associate’s degree in nursing from Prince George Community College, Maryland and went on to obtain a bachelor’s degree in nursing from Carlow University, Pittsburgh. He furthered his education receiving his MBA from Point Park University in Moon Township, PA.

Bob worked as a registered nurse in surgery throughout his career. He held positions such as staff RN, OR Manager, Director of Nursing and Surgical Services Director. Bob retired as a staff RN in the OR at Evangelical Hospital, Lewisburg, in November of 2025.

Bob will be remembered as a charismatic and caring person. He took great care of all his patients and was well respected by all the doctors and nurses alike. Bob loved to travel and went on many cruises throughout Europe over the years as well as three Alaskan cruises.

He is survived by his husband and best friend of 34 years, Daniel L. Stairs and their furry pets, Miss Kitty, Lizzie, Rosie, Sammy and Luna. Bob is also survived by two sisters: Mary Cottmeyer of Salisbury, MD and Christine Caradonna of Salisbury, MD and one brother, David Caradonna, of Salisbury, MD.

In keeping with Bob’s spirit of love, “Please be kind to one another.”

In keeping with Bob’s wishes, there will be no service.

Memorial contributions may be made to Lycoming County SPCA, 2805 Reach Road, Williamsport, PA 17701.

Arrangements are under the direction of Visneski Funeral Home, Inc 42 West Mahoning Street Danville PA 17821. www.visneski.com.

03/30/2026

Radeena “Deenie” Lakay Pennell Vella, 43, entered her eternal home with her Heavenly Father on Monday, March 16, 2026. She passed away at Geisinger Medical Center, surrounded by the family who loved her dearly.

Born in Danville, Pennsylvania, on July 16, 1982, Radeena was the cherished daughter of the late Raymond and Nancy Vella. She was a 2004 graduate of the Danville Area School District’s Life Skills Program. Following graduation, Radeena moved into a specialized care group home in Catawissa, Pennsylvania, where she flourished under the dedicated supervision of the Community Service Group and the watchful care of her parents and her brother, Jon.

Radeena possessed a beautiful spirit and a joy that was truly infectious to everyone she met. While living in Catawissa, she embraced a vibrant life filled with community experiences, taking great pride in her work at SUNCOM. In her free time, Radeena found immense happiness listening to music—especially her favorite, Woody Wolfe—watching movies, and interacting with her fellow residents, with whom she shared a deep bond.

Above all, Radeena loved her family. She looked forward to every visit and was known for her festive spirit during the holidays, bringing light and celebration to every family gathering. Her family is deeply comforted by the thought of Radeena’s new beginning—a life of perfect health and boundless joy, where every barrier has been washed away.

Radeena is survived by her loving siblings: her sister, Catherine Vella Hunt of Levittown, PA; and her three brothers, Michael Vella of Parishville, NY, Mathew Vella of Vidalia, GA, and Jon Vella of Danville, PA. She also leaves behind many friends and dedicated caregivers who became like family over the years.

Family and friends will gather this summer to celebrate Radeena’s life and legacy at the graveside she shares with her parents. Details for this celebration will be provided to loved ones as they are finalized.

Arrangements are under the direction of Visneski Funeral Home, Inc., 42 West Mahoning Street, Danville, PA 17821. www.visneski.com

03/18/2026

David “Timothy” Seitz, 74, of Hanover, passed away peacefully, March 18, 2026, at Hanover Hall Nursing Home. Timothy was born on November 25, 1951, the son of Charles “Russell,” and Iris May (Robertson) Seitz, of Hampstead, Maryland.

Timothy was a 1969 graduate of North Carroll High School and attended Florida State College at Jacksonville.

After retiring as Manager for Kohl’s Department Stores, Timothy became an art and antiques collector and dealer, specializing in antique lamps and art prints. Timothy was a landscape painter and lover of the outdoors, who looked forward every year to visiting his favorite swimming hole he thought of as “Paradise”.

Timothy is survived by a daughter, Trystin (Michael) of York, a sister, Iris Elaine, of Westminster, and brothers, Calvin (Fran) of Big Pine Key, FL, Stephen (Jane) of Otego, NY, Jonathan (Sian) of Vista, CA, and Charles (Donna) of York Springs, PA, and many nieces and nephews, including Tyler Price of Hanover, a beloved nephew, who shared Timothy’s fondness for poker.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Celebration of Timothy’s Life, at 12:15 PM on Thursday, March 26, 2026, at Eckhardt Funeral Chapel, 3296 Charmil Drive, Manchester, MD. Friends will be received from 11:00 AM until 12:00PM. The burial will be private at the family cemetery.

The family will provide flowers. Memorial contributions may be made to River Valley Ranch, 4443 Grave Run Road, Manchester, MD 21102.

Arrangements are under the direction of Visneski Funeral Home, Inc 42 West Mahoning Street Danville PA 17821. www.visneski.com.

03/17/2026

Pamela Dawn Gontz, LTC. Ret USAF NC, 74, of Wilmington, NC, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on Monday, March 16, 2026, in Danville, PA. She was born on June 13, 1951, in Chambersburg, PA, the daughter of the late Charles Leroy and Phyllis Ann (Wenger) Gontz.

Pam graduated from Shippensburg High School in 1969 and went on to the Kings Daughters School of Nursing in Martinsburg, WV, receiving her diploma of nursing.

She served her country with honor in the United States Air Force rising to the esteemed rank of Lieutenant Colonel, retiring in 2011. During her time in the Air Force she received her Basic Flight Nurse Badge, the National Defense Service Medal with one bronze star, the Air Force Commendation Medal, the Major Gen. Thomas R. White, Jr. medal and the Gen. Thomas J. Stewart medal.

She formerly attended Crosswinds Church in Wilmington, NC. Pam found joy in family and created a warm, loving home. An avid lover of jigsaw puzzles and a passionate reader, Pam delighted in the challenges that life presented, embracing each one with grace and tenacity. However, her greatest joy came from the time spent with her family, where she was a constant source of love and encouragement.

Pam will be remembered as a nurturing soul with a kind heart, who selflessly devoted her life to caring for others. She will be deeply missed by those whose lives she touched.

She is survived by one sister; LeeAnn Hocker of Danville, PA; one nephew, Shawn Hocker and his wife Catherine and their children, Bella, Mason and Logan of Wilmington, NC; two nieces, Chandra Knott and her husband David and their children, Taylor and Ava of Chapel Hill, NC; and Linsey Courtney and her husband Malachi and their children, Patience, Payton, Matthias, SalemAnn, Ezra, and Magdalena.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Celebration of Pam’s Life to be held on Friday, March 27, 2026, at 7:00PM at Visneski Funeral Home, Inc., 42 West Mahoning Street, Danville, PA with Pastor Jeff Loman officiating. Friends will be received from 6:00-6:45PM. Nursing rites will be accorded by the SUN Nursing Honor Guard. Burial will be held at a later date at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery, Annville, PA.

The family will provide flowers. Memorial contributions may be made to the International Justice Mission, PO Box 96961, Washington, DC 20090-6961 or online at IJM.org.

www.visneski.com.

03/17/2026

Mary A. Farrell, 88, of Riverside, PA, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on Monday, March 16, 2026, at her residence. She was born on October 21, 1937, in Kingston, PA. She was the daughter of the late Helen McGowan and Joseph Maier, Sr.

Mary received her elementary education from St. Joseph School in Danville where she was an active student serving as President of the 8th grade science class and was May Queen. She was a 1955 graduate of Slovak Girls Academy currently known as St. Cyril's Academy. While in high school, she played trumpet in the school orchestra and sang in the chorus. She also worked part time at the A&P grocery store and volunteered at the Danville YMCA.

Upon graduation, she worked at the Danville State Hospital as secretary to the Business Manager, a job she held for ten years before leaving to raise a family. Mary had a varied and interesting career. When her youngest daughter reached school age, she worked at the Diehl School as a teacher’s aide and then as a secretary for the Montour County Probation Office before returning to Danville State Hospital where she eventually retired.

She was an active member of St. Joseph Catholic church serving on various committees, also serving on the Montour County Children and Youth board and was a founding member of the Danville Elkettes.

On October 3, 1964, she married the love of her life - John M. Farrell. They raised three wonderful children together and to date they have nine grandchildren and one great grandchild. Mary enjoyed bowling in her younger days, reading, and baking cookies (If you were ever near her house at Christmas time you left with lots of homemade cookies, just ask the Hause family).

In addition to her husband, she is survived by her daughter, Karen (Kenneth) Treon of Danville, son, Michael (Lisa) Farrell, Millville, and daughter, Patricia (Todd) Reidinger of Downingtown, grandchildren Jacob (Maggie) and their son Henry, Danielle, Nicholas, Saige, and Elijah Treon, Ellie and Evan Reidinger, and Jack and Bella Farrell.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by brothers Joseph and James, as well as one sister Helen Miller.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial to be held on Saturday, March 21, 2026, at 1:00PM at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, 68 Center Street, Danville with the Father Kenneth Roth as celebrant. Friends will be received in St. Hubert’s Chapel from 11:00AM-12:45PM.

The family will provide flowers. Memorial contributions may be made to The American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 6704, Hagerstown, MD 21741 or online at Donate Today | The American Cancer Society.

Arrangements are under the direction of Visneski Funeral Home, Inc 42 West Mahoning Street Danville PA 17821. www.visneski.com.

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