Obituaries

Mary Elizabeth Bish of DuBois, PA, passed peacefully on Tuesday, May 9, 2023, at Penn Highlands Hospital at the age of 93.  She was born in Crates, PA on January 9, 1930, to Ray A. and Isabelle M. Klepfer.  She was predeceased by her devoted husband, Charles H. Bish of 61 years.

She is survived by her children Bradley (Denise) Bish, Clarion, PA; Jason (Cindy) Bish, Canton, IL; Shelley Kosko, DuBois, PA; Susan (John) Dietrick, Denver, NC; her grandchildren Megan Kosko, DuBois, PA; Matthew Kosko, Washington DC; Allison (Matthew) Pretorius, Clarence Center, NY; Kaitlyn (John) Reagan, Rochester, NY; her great-grandchildren Grayson Pretorius, William Reagan, Graham Pretorius, and 2 little ones arriving in July and September.

Mary is also survived by her brother Victor (Sharon) Klepfer, Freeport, PA; sister-in-laws Austa Klepfer, Post Falls, ID; Jeanette Klepfer, Mayport, PA; Peggy Klepfer, Cabot, PA; Debbie Klepfer, Mayport, PA; and brother-in-law Charles Musser, New Bethlehem, PA; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents Ray and Isabelle Klepfer; son-in-law David Kosko; bothers Robert Klepfer, Donald Klepfer, Rayburn Klepfer, Gary Klepfer; sisters Benette Minick, Reba Musser; brother and sister-in-laws Roy Minick, Thomas and Mary Lou Bishop, James and Joanne Russell, John and Margaret Januzzi.

A graduate of Clarion State Teachers College (1951), she enjoyed her career of teaching young children in various positions in the Redbank and Butler Area School districts.  She was an active member of the Zion Lutheran Church and served in the church as caregiver, service presenter and member of the Women’s Organization.  She lived a long and fulfilled life always willing to give a helping hand.

She was a talented seamstress who enjoyed quilting and knitting.  Over the last few years, she continued to make several quilts, which are now lasting memories enjoyed by her children and grandchildren, with hopes to be passed on for generations to come.

She enjoyed playing cards, board games and of course bingo and karaoke with friends, and outdoor gardening.  She especially enjoyed visits and outings with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.  They always brought a smile to her face with their antics and stories.   She loved when she received photos of the great-grandchildren, as she would look at them for hours.

Calling hours will be held on Saturday, May 13, 2023, from 10-12pm at Zion Lutheran Church: 2842 Pine Run Road, Mayport, PA; along with a Memorial Service at 12pm.  A luncheon will follow to celebrate Mary’s life.

Interment will be at Cedarview Memorial Park, Strattanville, PA

In lieu of flowers, contributions in her name can be made to: Zion Lutheran Church or a charity of your choice.

The Alcorn Funeral Home in Hawthorn is handling the arrangements.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.alcornfuneralhome.com.