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Obituaries

Myra Sue Simmers

Myra Sue Simmers, 89, of Altoona, went home to be with the Lord early Wednesday morning at Hilltop Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center, Altoona. She was born in Altoona, a daughter of the late James Arthur and Marilla Elizabeth (Rudasill) Nevel. She was twice married: first to George A. Lynch, then to Arkie V. Simmers, both of whom preceded her in death. Surviving are four children: son, James A. Lynch (Lori) of York; son, Allen L. Lynch (Carmie) of Brackenridge; daughter, Brenda L. Himes (Bill) of Bellwood; and son, Arkie V. Simmers Jr. (Wendy) of Elizabethville; six grandchildren: ...

Linda L. Snyder

Linda L. Snyder, 84, of Tyrone, peacefully passed away Jan. 1, 2026, at her residence. She was born in Warriors Mark and lived a life devoted to her family and the simple joys she treasured. Linda loved working outdoors and spending time with her family. She especially enjoyed visits to ...

Angela M. ‘Angie’ (Mento) Auerbeck

Angela M. “Angie” (Mento) Auerbeck, 95, of Altoona, passed away Wednesday. Friends will be received from 3 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 29, 2026, at The Stevens Mortuary Inc., 1421 Eighth Ave., Altoona, where a vigil for the deceased will be held. A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. Friday, Jan. 30, 2026, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 1405 Fifth Ave., Altoona. A complete obituary will appear in Monday’s Mirror.

Genevieve A. ‘Jeanne’ Gathagan

Genevieve A. “Jeanne” Gathagan, 88, of Midtown Oaks Health and Rehab Center, Altoona, formerly of Utahville, died Wednesday. She was born in Roaring Spring, daughter of the late Paul and Hannah Roub. She was preceded in death by her husband, Clair; a son, Randy Gathagan; a daughter, Sheila Wilson; and five sisters: Pearl, Ruth, Martha, Nancy and Ethel. Surviving are daughters, Brenda Beers and Rita Solan; several grandchildren; and sisters, Doris Stoner and Joyce Lovell. Friends will be received from 11 a.m. until the 1 p.m. funeral service Monday, Jan. 26, 2026, at McQuown Funeral ...

William David ‘Dave’ Ransom Jr.

William David “Dave” Ransom Jr., 72, of Altoona, passed away Monday. He was born and raised in Chambersburg, son of the late William David Ransom Sr. and Lucy McGill Ransom. Dave was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend, known for his dry humor, strength, generosity and dedication to family. He was a graduate of Chambersburg Area High School, Class of 1971, where he excelled in baseball and track and field, earning a scholarship to Shippensburg University. He proudly served in the United States Marine Corps and later worked in computer sales before ...

Susan L. Thomas

Susan L. Thomas, 67, of Portage, passed away Tuesday. She was born in Altoona, daughter of the late George and Dorothy (Eckenrode) Stevens. She was also preceded in death by brothers, Robert and George. Surviving are her children: David Diehl, Mark Seymour and Kayla Seymour; sisters, Mary Ann Dybus and Lynn James; 12 grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 28, 2026, at Portage Community Church, 1111 Main St., Portage. Arrangements are by Gibbons-Houser Funeral Home Inc., Gallitzin.