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Obituaries

Edward R. Fleck

Edward R. Fleck, 63, of Altoona, passed away Sunday, surrounded by family, at UPMC Shadyside. He was born in Altoona, the son of Kenneth and Mary (Murtiff) Fleck. Surviving are his wife of 40 years, Debra; and daughters, Dorothy McConnell and Nicole. He loved spending time with his granddaughters: Sydnee, Carlee, Shanna and Siara; and had a special place in his heart for his best friends: Jon Chamberlain, Tom Cooney and Brian Fornwalt. Edward had many hobbies throughout his life. He was past president of Tyrone Sportsman Trap Shooting Team and past president of Horseshoe Amateur ...

Donna Jane Gates

Donna Jane Gates, 94, of Altoona, died Wednesday at Cedarwood Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center, Tyrone. She was born in Blain City, daughter of the late Lambert and Lillian (Wilkinson) Kibler. She was preceded in death by her husband, Mahlon; and a grandson, AJ. Surviving are sons, Mark (Kathi) and Andrew (Christine); granddaughters, Michele Gates and Cassidy Curry; and a great-grandson, Aiden Rydbom. At the request of the deceased, there will be no viewing or visitation. Burial will be private at the convenience of the family. Arrangements are by McQuown Funeral Home, ...

Duane Lewis Gates

Duane Lewis Gates, 57, of Beaver Valley, died Tuesday at his residence. He was born in Coalport, a son of the late Gene and Elaine “Polly” (Lewis) Gates. He is survived by four siblings: Richard “Rick” Gates, Brian Gates, Kevin Gates and Debra “Deb” Beatty, his loving caregiver with whom he resided; and numerous nieces and nephews. A celebration of Duane’s life will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 25, 2026, at Sir Barney’s Restaurant. A buffet-style meal will be provided as we gather to share memories and honor his life. Arrangements are by McQuown ...

Gayle S. Larsen

Gayle S. Larsen, 85, Altoona, passed away Monday at UPMC Altoona. She was born in Altoona, daughter of the late Arthur Sr. and Clara (Whitfield) Taylor. She was first married to Charles “Bud” Campbell, who preceded her in death; and later married John Larsen, who also preceded her in ...

Sandra Lee Welch

Sandra Lee Welch, 75, of Altoona, passed away Wednesday at The Villages of Midtown Oaks, Altoona. She was the daughter of the late Herman and Janet (Vipond) Price. Sandra married Clyde L. “Pete” Welch on Nov. 16, 1968. He preceded her in death Feb. 25, 2021. Surviving are two ...

William Robert Baker II

William Robert Baker II, 78, of Hollidaysburg, passed away Tuesday at his home. He was born in Huntingdon, son of the late William Robert Baker and Verna Marie (Surcek) Baker Crofcheck. He married Kathleen Pounds on Feb. 14, 1997. Surviving are his wife of 28 years; two daughters, ...