Obituaries

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Harry Biesecker

Harry Biesecker, known to most as Gene, passed away peacefully on August 21, 2024, in Ellenton, FL. Born on January 19, 1937, in Gibson, PA, Gene lived a full life that spanned nearly 88 years.

Gene's life journey took him from his roots in Gibson, south to Texas where he served in the Air Force and again later in his life for Singer/Link Corporation, before retiring in Susquehanna, PA and finally moving to Florida. He made lasting memories in each place and was active in each community he lived in through the church, community theatre and his passion for golf.

He is survived by his children, Lisa Biesecker, Kim Hunt, Mike Biesecker and James Biesecker. His legacy continues through his grandchildren, Michael Biesecker, Stephanie Biesecker, Zack Watson, Nick Watson, Arianna Biesecker and Adrick Biesecker, who were all a great source of pride for him.

Gene was widowed by his beloved wife of 49 years, Susannah (Sue) Biesecker, whose memory remained a cherished part of his life. Predeceased by his brother, George, Gene is survived by his siblings, Barbara Darrow, Ralph Biesecker and David Biesecker, who all held a special place in his heart.

A service will be held at 10:00am, on the September 21, 2024, at Gibson United Methodist Church to celebrate both Gene and Sue’s life together and honor their memory.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Gene’s name to the Gibson Cemetery Association, to help care for all memorials.

Gene’s memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be dearly missed but remembered with great fondness and love. May he rest in peace.

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Joshua N. Bourassa

Honorary Trooper Joshua N. Bourassa, 20, of New Milford, PA completed his duty on earth and was called home to be with the Lord on September 4, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. Josh is the beloved son of Nicholas and Rebecca Bourassa.

Besides his parents, Joshua is survived by his siblings, Alyssa (Colvin) and Stanley (lonely because Josh stole my ladies); claimed siblings, Austin Orr, Matthew and Delaney Branham; maternal grandparents, Stanley and Lisa Wojtkowski; paternal grandparents, Roger and Romona Bourassa; great-grandmother, Doris Phillips; numerous cousins, aunts and uncles, including Rachel Wojtkowski, Stanley (Missy) Wojtkowski, Kevin Jacobs. Josh leaves behind his “Beautiful Abby” Smith, his fiancée and the love of his life (“sorry ladies”).

He was predeceased by a brother, Nicholas Bourassa Jr.; and his great-grandfather, John Phillips.

Joshua graduated from Blue Ridge High School in 2022. He enjoyed Uno, Monopoly, Disney Cars, tea parties, movie nights, singing country and gospel music, and dancing. Josh had a passion for law enforcement. He wanted to become a motorcycle police officer. He often served his family members tickets, which they paid. Josh took pleasure in catching a person red handed and seeing officers working hard at taking criminals off the streets. He was surrounded by the law enforcement community and appreciated their constant support, both at home and in Pittsburgh at the Children’s hospital. No doctor or nurse treating him was exempt from ticketing or arrest.

Josh dreamed of being a devoted husband and father. Josh was selfless and truly loved others. He carried a Heavenly light with him. His ready smile, sense of humor, and laughter drew others to him. Josh lived his life in gratitude and looked at the beauty, joy, and the blessing of being alive. He cared more about comforting and caring for others than anything else. He left an impact on everyone who had the privilege of meeting him. His story is not over. This is not the end. Trooper Joshua N. Bourassa, your tour on earth may have ended, however, your duty in Heaven has just begun.

The memorial service will be held at 4:00pm on Sunday, September 15, 2024 at the Blue Ridge School District Auditorium. Friends may greet the family at the school prior to the service from 1:00-4:00pm.

Memorial contributions in his memory may be sent to: Trooper Josh's Fund c/o Peoples Security Bank and Trust, 25109 State Route 11, Hallstead, PA 18822; or via Venmo: @Trooper Joshs-Fund. "Rest easy, we will take it from here Trooper Josh."

Arrangements by Tuttle-Yeisley Funeral Home, Inc., 25 Susquehanna Avenue, Hallstead.

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Patricia J. Bentler

Patricia J. Bentler, 64, of Great Bend and formerly of Susquehanna, PA was reunited with her beloved husband, David, in Heaven on September 10, 2024. David predeceased her in 2015. She was also predeceased by her parents, Kenneth and Betty.

Patricia is survived by her children, Danielle (Nicolas) Hackett, Kenya (Beverly) Bentler, Edward Bentler, Frederick Bentler, Tonya Birtch; eight cherished grandchildren; sister, Alice White; many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews.

Prior to her retirement, Patricia was employed with Barnes-Kasson Hospital as a dietician. She enjoyed butterflies, dolphins, and going to the beach with her kids and grandchildren. Patricia was generous, kind, compassionate and worked hard to meet her family’s needs. She was loyal to her friends and unwavering in her opinions. She never hid how she felt about anything. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

The family wishes to express their sincere appreciation to Dr. Schell and Linda Mills for their steadfast care and support.

A funeral service was held on Friday, September 13, 2024 at the Tuttle-Yeisley Funeral Home, Inc., 25 Susquehanna Avenue, Hallstead, PA.

In lieu of flowers, please consider sending memorial contributions to the funeral home to assist with her final expenses.

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Susannah Biesecker

In memory of the peaceful passing of Susannah Biesecker on July 3rd, 2022 at the age of 71 years while sleeping at home in Ellenton, FL, her family would like to announce a celebration of her life and final interment to be held September 21st, 2024.

Sue was born July 17, 1950 in Binghamton, NY to her loving parents, Sarah and Joseph Kelleher. She grew up in Hallstead, PA, and attended Blue Ridge High School.

Susannah was an accomplished baker and an amazing homemaker who loved taking care of those around her. She passed on her love of sweets to her children and grandchildren.

Sue was survived by her husband of 49 years, Harry “Gene” Biesecker until his recent death August 21st, 2024. She is now survived by her brother, John, of Hallstead; son, James and wife, Claudia, of San Anselmo, CA; three step-children, Lisa and partner, Heidi, of Saco Maine, Kim and husband, Dave, of Maryborough in Queensland, Australia and Mike and wife, Amor, of Ellenton, FL, whom tirelessly aided both her and Gene over the last years of their lives after they moved to Florida in 2021.

Susannah had 15 grandchildren and extended grandchildren, and dozens of cousins, nieces and nephews that will miss her deeply.

The memorial service will be held at 10:00am, September 21st, 2024 at Gibson United Methodist Church in Gibson, PA. Both Susie and Gene will be laid to rest this day.

In lieu of flowers, please bring sweets to share in Susie's honor!

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Robert Briar

Robert Briar, 88, of Susquehanna, PA passed away on September 5, 2024, of natural causes.

Bob was born on June 13, 1936 to Harry and Catherine Briar in Harrisburg, PA. He was predeceased by his wife, Elizabeth (Betty) Briar and his son, William Briar.

He is survived by son, Robert T. Briar, James Briar and multiple generations of grandchildren. Bob was thankful he was able to spend his final day surrounded by his loving family. He especially enjoyed his outings with his granddaughter, Chrissy.

Graveside services will be held at a future date.

Arrangements by Hennessey’s Funeral Home, Inc., 747 Jackson Avenue, Susquehanna.

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