What's New

Photo of the Month

Minerd.com Blog

Biographies

National Reunion

Interconnectedness

Cousin Voices

Honor Roll

In Lasting Memory

In the News

Our Mission and Values

Annual Review

Favorite Links

Contact Us

Charles H. Rose was born on April 11, 1876 (or in February 1878) at Normalville, Fayette County, PA, the son of Andrew Jackson and Susanna (Minerd) Rose Sr. Sources differ on his birthdate.

As an adult, Charley was tall and slender, with grey eyes. 

On Christmas Day 1897, at the age of 21, Charley married 16-year-old Alcestia Pearl Ritenour (June 20, 1881-1948), daughter of "Senator" Joseph G. and Susanna (Pirl) Ritenour, the father "a well known auctioneer of the Indian Creek Valley," said a local newspaper. The ceremony was held at the bride's home near Normalville, officiated by justice of the peace A.G.C. Sherbondy.

The Roses produced a dozen children -- Percy Rose, Milford Rose, Chester Rose, Virgil Melvin Rose, Colona Porterfield, Viola Ellen Donaldson, Elvarene Johnson, Zola Swope, Nettie Bell Durstine, Charles J. Rose, Zella Durstine and Vera Elander Rose.

One of Charles' portraits  under his imprint - enlarge

Sadly, the Roses lost five of their children at ages far too young.  Son Chester died of diphtheria at age four on March 10, 1911. Virgil passed away at age 22 months, on Jan. 28, 1921, of peritonitis and intestinal obstruction. Vera Elander died at only four days of age, as a "blue baby" on April 17, 1924, after her mother's protracted labor. Adding to the heartache, son Milford passed away at age 28, and daughter Colona died at age 31.

Charley was active in the community, and ran for Judge of Elections in Springfield Township in 1901. He also helped organize a basket picnic in 1897 which featured bands from Saltlick and Normalville. The Connellsville Courier said "Much credit is due to the earnest efforts" that he and others played in the effort. 

At one point in time, likely in the 1890s or early 1900s, Charley either purchased or started his own photography studio in Normalville. Seen here is the only evidence of this short-lived entrepreneurial business venture -- a portrait of a baby, seated in a chair. The image is mounted on heavy cardboard, with Charley's name stamped on the front at the bottom. This is a very rare imprint. (An enlarged version was our "Photo of the Month" in November 2006.)

A year after marriage, in February 1900, Charley and Alcestia moved to Broad Ford, near Connellsville, likely to obtain employment as a laborer at the booming coke ovens of the H.C. Frick Coke Co. The Roses did not stay long, and by May had moved back home and purchased a farm from Daniel Porterfield.

A year later, in 1901, Charley had a telephone installed in his home, one of only 53 local residents to subscribe to the Klondike Telephone Company. The entrepreneurial company had completed a line to near Indian Head and had further growth plans.

Ruins of old Fayette Furnace  near Rogers Mill

In 1906, the Roses were living in Vanderbilt, Fayette County, but by 1913 had moved again to Rogers Mills, Fayette County. There, they were members of the Rogers Mills Community Church. They lived not far from the ruins of the old Fayette Furnace, seen here. The furnace was built in 1825 by Joseph and George Rogers to produce pig iron, and ceased operations after 12 years, in 1837. The structure was still in "an excellent state of preservation" in about 1910, when this colorized photo was taken, and still stands today. 

When the federal census was taken of Fayette County in 1910, Charles was employed as a "miner" in a "coal bank." He and Alcestia had been married for 13 years at that time and had six children.

Charley registered for the military draft during World War I. He told the registration agent that he was a coal miner and operator, working on his own behalf, and that Alcestia was his nearest relative.

Interested in family ties, Charley attended the second annual McDowell-Miner-Ritenour reunion in 1929, held at Hillcrest Park near Connellsville, and was named in related Connellsville Daily Courier news coverage. His first cousins Grant, William and John R. Miner were organizers of the event.

Charley's work in the 1940s and early 1950s was spent primarily in self-employed timbering.

Daily Courier, 1951

Sadly,Alcestia suffered from hardening of the arteries and liver cancer, and passed away on June 4, 1948, just two weeks before her 67th birthday.

Charley outlived her by three years.

In 1951, said the Courier, Charley and a son in law and daughter "were en route to Niagara Falls, N.Y., for a vacation at the time the elder man was stricken … suffering a cerebral hemorrhage…"  He was rushed to Maple Avenue Hospital in Dubois, Clearfield County, PA, where he died three hours after the onset on July 2, 1951. His remains were returned to Normalville for burial beside his wife at Normalville Cemetery.

~ Son Percy Rose ~

Son Percy Rose (1898-1938) was born on Feb. 11, 1898 near Normalville. As an adult, he was of medium height and stout build, with blue eyes and brown hair.

He married Edith Reich (1900-1992), daughter of August Reich of Springfield Pike, and lived in Normalville. They were members of the Normalville United Brethren Church.

They had two children -- Gladys "Elva" Ritenour and LaVerne Fabian. 

Percy was a coal miner near Normalville circa 1918-1920, employed by the Bell & Rose Coal Company. In September 1918, he registered for the military draft during World War I, and claimed his father as his next of kin.

Circa 1927, Percy was employed as a coal truck driver. That year, on Dec. 1, 1927, he and a brother were riding together when the truck went out of control, striking a pole. Percy's knee was injured slightly, but the brother (not yet identified) was "thrown against the windshield" and cut by the broken glass, reported the Connellsville Daily Courier. 

Trouble arose in the summer of 1930 when Percy, his brother Charles and their father were accused of stealing copper wire and steel rails in Springfield Township. A grand jury found that they should stand trial, and their names were published in a related article in the Uniontown Morning Herald.

In the summer of 1937, he took out a classified advertisement in the Courier, offering to trade an electric washing machine for a gasoline-powered one.

Tragically, Percy contracted an incurable case of scarlet fever in April 1938. He declined quickly and, at the age of 39, died on April 13, 1938, at home. The Uniontown Morning Herald said he "was widely known through Springfield township... A private funeral service was held" in the Normalville Cemetery.

Afterward, Edith published a "card of thanks" in the Courier, saying "We wish to take this means of thanking our many friends and neighbors for the kindness and sympathy extended us during our recent sad bereavement, the sudden death of our beloved husband and father, Percy Rose. Especially do we wish to thank the minister, the singers, the pallbearers, those who sent flowers, those who so kindly furnished cars and all who assisted us in any way."

Edith later remarried to Samuel Basinger ( ? -1968) and resided in Dunbar, Fayette County in her later years. She was employed at Connellsville State General Hospital, and a member of the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses of Connellsville. 

She died at age 92 on Dec. 10, 1992, and left behind 16 grandchildren and 16 Grandchildren. 

Daughter Laverne Rose (1924-1980) was born on Feb. 28, 1924, and was just 14 when her father died. At the age of 20, she married Frank J. Fabian ( ? - ? ) on March 15, 1944 in Uniontown. The Fabians had two sons, Frank R. Fabian and David Fabian. Sadly, Laverne died in 1980 at the age of 56. Frank married again, to Louise (Taxacher) Cable (1926-2015), daughter of Edward H. and Mary (Baker) Taxacher of Connellsville. Louise was employed at Anchor Hocking Corporation in South Connellsville and for more than two decades at the Wonder Bar Restaurant. Frank's fate is not yet known. Louise died at the age of 88, on Feb. 22, 2015, at South Connellsville Personal Care Home. Burial was in Green Ridge Memorial Park, with an obituary printed in the Daily Courier.

• Grandson David Fabian (1948-1971) was born on May 6, 1948. He made tragic news on Jan. 1, 1971 when he drowned at age 22 during "a three-year New Year's ritual swim of the Youghiogheny River" near Connellsville, said the Courier.

• Grandson Frank R. Fabian married Gladys J. Wilson in about 1967. Circa 2015, they resided in Pennsville.

Daughter Gladys "Elva" Rose (1928-2017) was born on Jan. 19, 1928 in Normalville. She wed James R. Ritenour (1927-1997), and they were married for 52 years. "He was employed by the Connellsville Municipal Water Authority for 17 years as an operator," said the Connellsville Daily Courier. "He also worked for various coal mines throughout the area for several years. He was a World War II U.S. Army veteran." The couple produced eight children -- Gary Franklin Ritenour, Sylvia E. Burkett, Karen Joy Wilson, Geraldine Ritenour, Gloria Richter, Harry Robert Ritenour, James A. Ritenour and Wayne Ritenour. Sadly, their daughter Geraldine died in infancy). James passed away at age 69 on Valentine's Day 1997, and was buried in the Normalville Cemetery. At the time of James' death, he and Elva had produced 17 grandchildren and 12 grandchildren. Elva survived her husband by more than two decades. She was a member of the Ace Bowling League and attended Pechin Chapel in Dunbar, Fayette County, where she spent her final years. She passed into eternal peace at the age of 89 on Dec. 11, 2017, while surrounded by her family at home. Following funeral services led by distant cousin Rev. Lee Maley (of the family of Martha Ellen [Mayle]) Mayle), her remains were lowered into repose in Normalville Cemetery. An obituary was published in the Daily Courier.

• Grandson Gary Franklin Ritenour (1949-2016) was born on Nov. 7, 1949 in Connellsville. Following high school graduation in 1968, he served in the U.S. Marine Corps during the Vietnam War, achieving the rank of lance corporal. He was wounded in action and received the Purple Heart. In about 1971, when he would have been 22 years of age, he married Ruth "Jane" Wiltrout ( ? -living). They had three children -- Jane Omatick, Gary Ritenour and Tiffany Clark. Gary was a member of the Disabled American Veterans and the Connellsville Christian Missionary & Alliance Church. "He was an avid sports fan and loved watching the Pittsburgh Steelers and Pirates," said the Connellsville Daily Courier. They made their home in South Connellsville. Sadly, while undergoing medical treatment at the V.A. hospital in Pittsburgh, Gary died in 2016 at the age of 66. Burial was in Normalville Cemetery.

• Granddaughter Sylvia E. Ritenour wed Dennis R. Burkett in about 1971. Their residence in 2016-2023 was in St. Marys, PA.

• Granddaughter Karen Joy Ritenour married Albert Lee Wilson in about 1974. Their home in 2016-2023 was in Dunbar.

• Granddaughter Geraldine Ritenour ( ? - ? ) was deceased by 2016.

• Granddaughter Gloria Ritenour married Anthony "Tony" Richter. In 2016-2023, they lived in Connellsville.

• Grandson Harry Robert "Bob" Ritenour was married twice -- to Mary J. Echard and to Lynne White. Circa 2016-2023, he and Lynne made their home in Dunbar, Fayette County.

• Grandson James A. Ritenour (1963-2023) was born on March 6, 1963 in Connellsville. He served in the U.S. Army. James was twice-wed, and did not reproduce. His first spouse was Carol ( ? - ? ). Circa 2015, he married Michele Balko ( ? -living). He and Michele resided in Connellsville. He was a member of the New Hope Alliance Church. Sadly, James died at the age of 60 on Oct. 27, 2023. Pastor Neil Stevens presided over the funeral rites, with burial in Normalville Cemetery. His obituary appeared in the Connellsville Daily Courier.

• Grandson Wayne Ritenour wed Melissa Bower. They live in Dunbar.

~ Son Milford Rose ~

Son Milford Rose (1900-1928) was born in 1900. 

He married Inez Lowery ( ? - ? ), the ward of the family of Alonzo and Carrie (Lowry) Ritenour of Indian Head, Fayette County. The foster father opposed the marriage. In July 1926, he and Milford made headlines in the Daily Courier when they were arrested after aiming firearms on each other during a heated dispute at the Rose residence, and after Ritenour claimed Milford had shot him through the shirt.

Milford and Inez went on to have two children -- Milford Rose Jr. and Verda Elender Kent. 

Milford was a coal miner and timber cutter, residing in Rogers Mill, Fayette County.

Tragically, Milford died at age 28 on Aug. 13, 1928, "of typhoid fever, believed to have been contracted by drinking water from a spring," said the Daily Courier. "He was taken ill three weeks ago." His funeral was well attended -- said the Courier, "Six girls, who are at the Pittsburg First Presbyterian Church camp, near the Rose home, sang at the house. One of the girls accompanied them on the flute. Members of the church choir rendered selections" at the United Brethren Church of Normalville. Pallbearers were Russell Porterfield, Martin Porterfield, Alvin Johnson, Earl Ritenour, Robert Hensel and Frank Basinger. 

Inez later married to (?) Grant. She may have had one more daughter (or step-daughter), Kathleen Fogle.

In 1939, daughter Verda became a child bride at age 13 when she married James Kent, age 25. The nuptials, with the blessing of her mother, generated controversy and newspaper stories. Fayette County authorities investigated and "found the couple living in a one-room shack at Clinton near Connellsville," said the Courier. 

In 1945, Inez made her home in Normalville. By 1973, she moved to Lodi, OH. 

Daughter Verda Rose resided in 1947 in a boarding house on Pittsburgh's North Side, where James worked at H.J. Heinz Co. Tragically, the Kents again made headlines in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette when James died on July 17, 1947 of a self-inflicted shooting after threatening his wife. His remains were returned to Fayette County for burial in Normalville Cemetery.

~ Daughter Colona (Rose) Porterfield ~

Daughter Colona May Rose (1902-1933) was born on June 1, 1902 near Normalville.

She wed Roy Porterfield (1904-1975). 

They resided near Rogers Mill and had five children -- Alice "Allie" Mae Ritenour, Marshall Porterfield, Roy Sturgis Porterfield, Elera Johnson and Melvin V. Porterfield. 

Connellsville Courier, 1933

Tragically, Colona suffered from chronic heart disease and came down with a deadly case of bronchial pneumonia in the summer of 1933. Unable to rally, she succumbed on Aug. 6, 1933 at Connellsville State Hospital at the age of 31. Interment was in Normalville Cemetery.

Roy later married again to Leona E. Baxter (1913-2001) and had several more children -- among them Barbara Fazio and Gloria Wicker. They were members of the Otterbein United Methodist Church of Connellsville. 

They suffered also endured the specter of deaths with the passing of sons Marshall in 1966 and Sturgis (a self-employed lumberman residing in Carmichaels, Greene County) in 1967. 

Roy passed away at age 71 on Aug. 21, 1975, with burial in the Normalville Cemetery. At the time of his passing, he and his wives had offspring including 39 grandchildren and 29 Grandchildren. Leona died at age 87 on Feb. 21, 2001, and is buried in Normalville Cemetery.

Daughter Alice "Allie" Mae Porterfield (1921-1991) was born on Feb. 22, 1921. She married James Russell Ritenour (1904-1975). They had 16 children, including Hazel May Geary, Dorothy Louise Ament, Patsy Arlene Shawley, Mary Ellen Thomas, Thomas Richard Ritenour, William Glenn Ritenour, James Lee Ritenour, Bonnie Lou Riley, Joseph Michael Ritenour, Debra Sue Ritenour, Richard Dean Ritenour, Sally Jo Evans, Arlene Luketich, Marlene Fereza, Dennis Ritenour and Danny Ritenour. The family mourned at the death at birth of son Dennis in 1956. Circa 1967, Allie made her residence in Scenery Hill, Washington County, PA. Allie died on Aug. 27, 1991, at the age of 70, with burial in Normalville Cemetery. James outlived her by almost seven years. His passing occurred on Aug. 18, 1998.

• Granddaughter Hazel May Ritenour (1939-1991) was born on June 28, 1939. She married Lloyd Eugene Geary and had six children -- Leah Jane Pritts, Vickie Jo Geary, Douglas Eugene Geary, Jody Lynn Geary, Rodney Lee Geary and Heather Sue Geary. Sadly, Hazel died on Aug. 4, 1991 -- just 23 days before her mother passed away. Hazel was buried in Green Ridge Memorial Park near Connellsville.

• Granddaughter Dorothy Louise Ritenour (1941-2012) was born on Aug. 8, 1941 in Fayette County. She wedded Robert Merle Ament (April 14, 1939-1986), son of Harry C. and Minnie (Lenhart) Ament. Their six children were Peggy Sue Shawley, Robert Merle Ament Jr., Donald Ray Ament, Judy Louise Pospisil, Beth Ann Umbaugh and Jason Russell Ament. The Aments resided in Westmoreland County, PA, where Robert earned a living with Latrobe Construction Company. The Aments belonged to the Pleasant Grove United Presbyterian Church. Sadly, at the age of only 47, Robert passed away at the home of a son in Bradford, Derry Township on Nov. 26, 1986. His obituary was published in the Greensburg Tribune-Review. Dorothy outlived him by 26 years. At the age of 70, she died on April 24, 2012 in Ligonier. Her remains were lowered into eternal rest in Pleasant Grove Presbyterian Cemetery in Cook Township, Westmoreland County.

• Granddaughter Patsy Arlene Ritenour married Richard Dale Shawley. Their three children were Richard Lain Shawley, Kelly Sue Shawley and Stephen Ray Shawley.

• Granddaughter Mary Ellen Ritenour married John Thomas. They had three children -- Gregory John Thomas, Amy Lynn Farkosh and Robin Lee Thomas.

• Grandson Thomas Richard Ritenour marred Peggy Ann Wilson. Their only known offspring was son Thomas Henry Ritenour.

• Grandson William Glenn Ritenour married Margaret Ann Ross. Their three children were: William Paul Ritenour, Karie Ann Shearer Blackburn and Dana Marie Ritenour. They dwelled in Connellsville. In September 2018, they endured the heartbreak of the untimely death of their 47-year-old son William.

Great-grandson William Paul Ritenour (1971-2018) was born on Aug. 23, 1971 in Connellsville. He worked as a self-employed driller and carpenter, and was a member of the local union # 66. He married Viola Sanner ( ? -living), daughter of Shirley Stewart of Normalville. William loved his dogs. Sadly, admitted to Excela Helath Frick Hospital, he died at the age of 47 on Sept. 15, 2018.

Great-granddaughter Karie Ann Ritenour was married to (?) Shearer and (?) Blackburn. She lived in Normalville. She and Michael Hensel were companions in 2018.

Great-granddaughter Dana Ritenour was a companion of Dennis Nicholson Sr. of Normalville.

• Grandson James Lee Ritenour married Mary Margaret Kearns. Their two children were Lisa Lynn Ritenour and Jimmy Lee Ritenour.

• Granddaughter Bonnie Lou Ritenour married William Riley. They had four children: Shannon Lou Riley, Karli Mae Riley, Windy Riley and Jamie Lynn Riley.

• Grandson Joseph Michael Ritenour married Jacqueline McAvoy and had two sons, Joseph Ritenour and Jared Ritenour.

• Granddaughter Debra Sue Ritenour married Thomas Edward Jenkins. Their daughter is Tammy Sue Jenkins.

• Grandson Richard Dean Ritenour married Rosemary Smalley. They had three children: Rick Ritenour, Kristen Ritenour and Ryan Ritenour.

• Granddaughter Sally Jo Ritenour wed George Jacob Evans. Their children are George Jacob Evans Jr. and Samantha Jo Evans.

• Granddaughter Arlene Ritenour married George Luketich. They had four children:  Shawn Anthony Luketich, Brian Lee Luketich, Michael Luketich and Melissa Lynn Luketich.

• Granddaughter Marlene Ritenour wed Frank Fereza. Their children were Michelle Fereza, Frank Fereza and Eric Fereza.

• Grandson Danny Ritenour

Son Roy Sturgis Porterfield (1923?-1967) was born on Aug. 20, 1923 in Normalville, Fayette County. He married Jessie Howard (1923- ? ) on Sept. 27, 1944, in Connellsville. Jessie was the daughter of Bertha Howard of Washington, PA. They had four children: Roy Sturgis Porterfield Jr., Ronald Lee Porterfield, John Edmon Porterfield and Darla Jean DiMatteo. The family dwelled in 1958 in Paisley near Carmichaels, Greene County, PA, where he earned a living as a self-employed umberman. The family were members of the Church of Christ at Paisley. Tragically, Roy died at the age of 43 on March 15, 1967 in Greene County Memorial Hospital in Waynesburg. He was laid to rest in Laurel Point Cemetery in Carmichaels, with an obituary appearing in the Waynesburg Republican and a shorter version in the Connellsville Daily Courier. Jessie married again to John McNatt ( ? - ? ) and relocated to his hometown of Woodbridge, NJ. John is believed to have been married previously and to have brought a daughter to the union, Debbie Collins.

• Grandson Roy Sturgis Porterfield Jr. (1945-1989) was born on April 6, 1945. He grew up in Carmichaels. At the age of 22, he lived in Waynesburg, Greene County in 1967. He was the father of Brent A. Porterfield. Over the years, Roy was employed in a variety of jobs, including work for the County of Greene, U.S. Steel Mining Company's Cumberland Mine and as a bartender at Koratich's Golden Rail and Albert's Restaurant. He was a member of the U.S. Army Reserves and the Church of Christ in Carmichaels. Sadly, having borne a long illness, the 44-year-old Roy passed away on Sept. 17, 1989 in Manor Care Nursing Home in Mountainside, NJ. His remains were shipped back to Greene County for interment in Laurel Point Cemetery in Carmichaels. An obituary appeared in the Waynesburg Republican.

• Grandson Ronald Lee "Ronnie" Porterfield (1947-1974) was born on Jan. 10, 1947 in Waynesburg, Greene County, PA. He joined the Church of Christ at Paisley near Carmichaels, Greene County. As a 20-year-old, he resided in 1967 in Blacksville, Monongalia County, WV. In his mid-20s, Ronald lived in Apollo, Armstrong County, PA at 411 North River Street. Sadly, after what the Waynesburg Republican called "a brief illness," he succumbed to death at the age of 26 on Jan. 5, 1974 in Armstrong County Memorial Hospital.

• Grandson John Edmon Porterfield (1951-2012) was born on Aug. 17, 1951 in Waynesburg, Greene County. His father died with John was age 15. He then relocated from Carmichaels to Linden, NJ after his mother remarried and moved to New Jersey. On Aug. 15, 1970, he was united in matrimony with Linda Workman ( ? - ? ). The couple produced eight offspring -- Debbie Lynn Kelley, Rhonada Lee Porterfield-Roberts, Jessica Jane Porterfield, Roy Lee Porterfield, Ronald Sturgis Porterfield, Anthony Graseck, Matthew Lee Daniels and Christopher Foster. Sadly, sons Roy and Ronald died young. John secured employment with Shop Rite Company of New Jersey, where he was a supermarket manager and member of the Retail Clerks Union, Local 1262. He eventually moved back to southwestern Pennsylvania and established a home in Uniontown, Fayette County. There, the family belonged to St. Peter's Anglican Church. He passed away in Uniontown Hospital at the age of 60 on July 16, 2012. Burial was in Laurel Point Cemetery in Carmichaels, following funeral services held in the family church officiated by Rev. John T. Cruikshank.

• Granddaughter Darla Jean Porterfield ( ? - ? ) also moved with her mother to New Jersey upon remarriage. She may have taken her stepfather's surname, "McNatt." Darla wedded (?) DiMatteo. In 1989, she dwelled in Elizabeth, NJ and in 2012 in Avenel, NJ.

Maple Grove Park swimming pool, a landmark in Champion, PA

Son Melvin V. Porterfield (1925-2009) was born on Oct. 8, 1925. He married Eva Jean Nicholson (May 11, 1931-1985). They made their home in Champion, Fayette County, and had seven children -- Richard Porterfield, Judy Mansberry, Penny Zylka, Robin Porterfield, Randy Porterfield, Roger Porterfield and Jill Wagner. Sadness covered the family when Eva Jean died on the next-to-last day of 1985 at the age of 54. Melvin survived his wife by nearly a quarter of a century. Said the Somerset Daily American, he was "employed as a caretaker at the Gale Crest Farm in Somerset County." Melvin died at the age of 84 on Nov. 2, 2009, with burial in Normalville Cemetery, following funeral services led by his grandson, Rev. Benjamin Zylka. An obituary was printed in the Greensburg Tribune-Review. At the time of his passing, he and Eva Jean had produced 17 grandchildren, one step grandson, 14 great-grandchildren and two step-great grandchildren.

• Grandson Richard Porterfield resided in Champion, Fayette County in 2009.

• Granddaughter Judy Porterfield married Jack Mansberry. In 2009, they were in White, Fayette County.

• Granddaughter Penny Porterfield was joined in wedlock with John Zylka Jr., son of John Stanley and Elsie Mae (McConnell) Zylka Sr. They made a home in 2009 in Mount Pleasant, PA. Their son, Rev. Benjamin Zykla, has bee pastor of the Johnstown Second Brethren Church in Cambria County, PA.

• Grandson Robin Porterfield wedded Barbara. Circa 2009, they dwelled in Kecksburg, PA.

• Grandson Randy Porterfield was united in matrimony with Tracy. They put down roots in Donegal, Westmoreland County.

• Grandson Roger Porterfield married Judy. They relocated to Berlin, Somerset County.

• Granddaughter Jill Porterfield wedded Dennis Wagner. They lived in Somerset, Somerset County, PA in 2009.

Daughter Elera Della "Ellery" Porterfield (1928-2015) was born on May 6, 1928 in Normalville. In about 1945, when she was 17 years of age, she married 19-year-old Lorenzo "Renzie" Johnson (1926-2003), son of  Alvin R. and Effie (Schmuck) Johnson of Mill Run. They lived near Connellsville. At the age of 19 in November 1945, Lorenzo was employed by the Beacon Fuel Company. While at work, a piece of timber fell on him, injuring his left foot, right elbow and right ear. Elera was hurt in October 1956, at age 28, when her automobile was involved in an accident in Indian Head, Fayette County. They produced one son, Earl Johnson. Elera worked as a seamstress over the years at Connellsville Sportswear, a position from which she eventually retired. Lorenzo was employed for two decades as a truck driver for Mastowski-Fullem Lumber Co. Reported the Connellsville Daily  Courier, "He enjoyed the outdoors, especially hunting and fishing. He loved to attend auctions and flea markets with his wife." He also was a member of the Eagles lodge. Sadly, Lorenzo died on Nov. 26, 2003, terminating their marriage of 58 years. Elera survived him by a dozen years. She joined him in eternity on Oct. 14, 2015. Her remains were placed into repose in Normalville Cemetery.

• Grandson Earl Brooks Johnson married Karen and dwelled in Connellsville in 2015.Their two daughters were Tina Savage and Paula Cline. 

~ Daughter Elvarene (Rose) Johnson ~

Daughter Elvarene Rose (1905-1956) was born on May 25, 1905 in Normalville.

She married Gilbert Van Johnson (Feb. 9, 1909-1959) on Oct. 28, 1929, when she was age 24 and he 20. He was the son of Wade and Mary (Diehle) Johnson of Mill Run, Fayette County.

They resided in rural Normalville and produced eight children -- Darrell Van Johnson, Laura Whipkey Lanning, Marvin Johnson, Beatrice Shroyer, Norma Jean Swope, Alfred D. Johnson, Dorothy Bowers West and Dolly Whipkey.

The Johnsons reputedly were a professed warlock and witch couple, practicing in the occult arts over the years. It's been said that curses were placed on one or more of their baby grandchildren.

Sadly, Elvarene suffered with heart disease for a 15-year duration and also with hypertension and asthma. She died from their effects at age 50, on Jan. 4, 1956. She was buried at the Normalville Cemetery. 

Gilbert survived her by just three years. Tragically, while driving along Route 381 in Mill Run in the afternoon of Nov. 5, 1959, his vehicle overturned when it struck an abutment, resulting in a fracture of his cervical vertebrae. He was rushed to Connellsville State Hospital, where the Daily Courier newspaper reported that the accident was "minor" and that he was treated for "small abrasions" of both ears. But the injuries were deceiving, and in fact his cervical vertebrae were fractured. The injuries could not be fixed, leading to death three days at the age of 50, on Nov. 8, 1959. Interment was in Normalville Cemetery.

Son Darrell Van Johnson (1928-2000) was born on May 3, 1928. On Jan. 4, 1950, he was age 21, he married a distant cousin, 14-year-old Evelyn Marie Miner, daughter of Edward and Gertrude (Bowers) Miner. The couple divorced. See the Miner bio for more on this family.

Daughter Laura Rene Johnson married John Whipkey and Leland Dale Lanning. In 1959, her home was in Normalville.

Daughter Beatrice Johnson (1933-2023) was born on Oct. 7, 1933 in Normalville. On Aug. 14, 1953, when she was 19 years of age, she wed Ronald Junior Shroyer (June 20, 1934-2003), son of Joseph and Lillie (Joseph) Shroyer of Mill Run. The couple's marriage lasted for half a century. The Shroyers dwelled in Normalville, Mill Run and Connellsville and were members of the Hampton Church of God. The pair produced these offspring -- James R. (Buck) Shroyer, Allen D. Shroyer, Betty Ohler, Della Lewis, Kathy Stupka, Donna Jean Kistner, Helen "Margaret" Miner Session, Juanita Krugg Bando, Tracy Fletcher and Randall Scott Shroyer. Sadly, son Randall died of fluid buildup in the brain (hydrocephalus) and a staph infection on Sept. 8, 1967 at the age of a little more than three months. His tender remains were interred in the Indian Creek Baptist Church Cemetery. Ronald spent 28 years in the employ of CSX Railroad, retiring in 1992 at the age of 58. He belonged to the Brotherhood of Maintenance and Way union. At the age of 69, he passed away at home at the age of 69 on Nov. 23, 2003. Beatrice survived her spouse by 19 years and maintained her residence in Connellsville. During that time she bore the heartache of the untimely death of her daughter Donna Jean. The angel of death carried her away at age 87 on Jan. 18, 2023. An obituary in the Connellsville Daily Courier said she was survived by "many, many" grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren. Pastor Lee Maley, a distant cousin of the family of Martha Ellen (Mayle) Mayle, officiated the funeral service. Burial was in the Indian Creek Baptist Church Cemetery.

• Grandson James R. (Buck) Shroyer ( ? - ? ) married Sherry ( ? - ? ) and resided in Mill Run.

• Grandson Allen D. Shroyer ( ? - ? ) wedded Geraldine ( ? - ? ). They have dwelled in Mill Run.

• Granddaughter Betty Shroyer ( ? - ? ) was united in matrimony with Mark Ohler ( ? - ? ). They have lived in Normalville.

• Granddaughter Della Shroyer ( ? - ? ) was joined in wedlock with Sanford "Bubba" Lewis ( ? - ? ). Their home has been in Mill Run.

• Granddaughter Kathy Shroyer ( ? - ? ) married Mark Stupka ( ? - ? ). They made a home in Mill Run.

• Granddaughter Donna Jean Shroyer (1961-2020) was born on Sept. 11, 1961 in Mill Run. In about 1980, she was joined in matrimony with John R. Kistner ( ? -living). Their union endured for four decades. They bore two daughters -- Stacey Pincavitch and April McLaughlin Walsh. Donna belonged to the Greenwood United Methodist Church of Connellsville and liked to crochet. Grief blanketed the family when their daughter April's husband Matthew David McLaughlin was in an automobile accident and died from his injuries at the age of 27 on March 18, 2012. Sadly, at the age of 58, Donna was carried away by the Angel of Death on March 11, 2020. Funeral services were preached by Pastor Norman Walk with the remains interred in Indian Creek Baptist Church Cemetery and an obituary appearing in the Connellsville Daily Courier.

• Granddaughter Helen "Margaret" Shroyer (1963-living) wedded a distant cousin, Mark Dewayne Miner (1960-living), son of Donnie Franklin and Helen (Nicholson) Miner of the family of Franklin and Bertha C. (Basinger) Miner of Mill Run. The couple divorced. Helen subsequently was joined in marriage with Timothy Session ( ? - ? ).

• Granddaughter Juanita Shroyer ( ? - ? ) was joined in matrimony with Bruce Krugg ( ? - ? ). They relocated to Windber, Somerset County, PA. In 2023, she is known to have been the wife of William Bando ( ? - ? ) of Connellsville.

• Granddaughter Tracy Shroyer ( ? - ? ) was united in holy wedlock with Mark Fletcher ( ? - ? ). The couple put down roots in Connellsville.

Daughter Norma Jean Johnson (1939-2015) was born on April 8, 1939 in Normalville. At the age of 17, she wed James Russell Swope ( ? - ? ) in 1956 in Connellsville. Their children were Wanda Sue McCormick, Barbara E. Lewis, Wendy C. Cline Fogle, Terry R. Swope, Dale M. Swope, James Thomas Swope and Barron Scott Swope. The family made their home in Scottdale, Fayette County. Norma Jean passed away at the age of 76 on Aug. 16, 2015 in the Country Haven Personal Care Home. She was placed into eternal repose in Normalville Cemetery following a funeral service led by Pastor Warren Upton. An obituary was published in the Connellsville Daily Courier.

• Granddaughter Wanda Sue Swope ( ? - ? ) wed (?) McCormick ( ? - ? ).

• Granddaughter Barbara E. Swope ( ? - ? ) married (?) Lewis ( ? - ? )

• Granddaughter Wendy C. Swope ( ? - ? ) was twice-married. Her first husband was (?) Cline ( ? - ? ). Her second spouse was (?) Fogle ( ? - ? ).

• Grandson Terry R. Swope ( ? - ? )

• Grandson Dale M. Swope ( ? - ? )

• Grandson James Thomas Swope ( ? - ? )

• Grandson Barron Scott Swope ( ? - ? )

Son Alfred Johnson ( ? - ? ) lived at home with his widowed father in 1959. He is thought to have married Edna (?) ( ? - ? ) and later JoAnn Legas ( ? - ? ). He was deceased by 2015.

Daughter Dorothy A. Johnson ( ? - ? ) married Richard G. Bowers ( ? - ? ) in 1962 in Connellsville. They had one known daughter, Sharon Renee Miller. Dorothy later married Charles William West ( ? - ? ) in 1990. Her home later was in Stahlstown.

Daughter Dolly Johnson ( ? - ? ) married (?) Whipkey ( ? - ? ) and lived in New York.

~ Daughter Nettie Bell (Rose) Durstine ~

Daughter Nettie Bell Rose (1908-2007) was born in 1908. 

She married Rev. Boyd Emerson Durstine (1908-1977) on Aug. 21, 1939. He was the son of Arthur and Daisy Pearl (Williams) Durstine and a native of Scottdale, Westmoreland County, PA. At the time of marriage, Nettie and Boyd both were age 21, and he was employed as a laborer in Champion, Fayette County. The couple requested that the news not be published in a newspaper.

They resided in the Normalville area, and had eight children, including Marjorie Bell "Margie" Dumbauld, Ivy Christman, Althea "Kay" Pletcher, and an infant daughter and son, and infant triplets. 

Nettie "was a loving homemaker, mother, grandmother, Grandmother and sister to her family," said the Daily Courier. "She liked to bake, garden, pick berries, make quilts, and canning fruits and vegetables." They resided on a 25-acre home farm property. A housefire claimed their home, but the foundation remains today, and is co-owned by their daughters.

Sadly, the Durstines' marriage fell apart, and they divorced. 

Boyd remarried to Audrey (Lanning) Eutsey (1936-2001), and they made their home in Confluence, Somerset County. She had been married before and brought two sons to the marriage -- Edward Eutsey and John Eutsey. They went on to have the following children of their own -- Robert Lee Durstine, William Boyd Durstine, Eunice Sue Durstine and Lywanna Lynn Durstine. 

Boyd served for a dozen years as pastor of the Greenbrier Full Gospel Church. He died on May 21, 1977, at the age of 56. Burial was in Jersey Church Cemetery in nearby Ursina, Somerset County, PA. An obituary was published in the Connellsville Daily Courier.

Nettie passed away at the age of 85 on April 21, 2007, at Highlands Hospital, with burial at Normalville Cemetery.

Daughter Marjorie Belle "Margie" Durstine ( ? - ? ) wed Robert Dumbauld ( ? - ? ) . In 1977, they dwelled in Normalville. They had one son, Robert William Dumbauld. 

Daughter Ivy Della Durstine (1940- ? ) was born on Aug. 14, 1940. At the age of 18, she married 19-year-old Donald Clifford Christman (1940-2001), a resident of White, Fayette County. The couple was wed in Cumberland, MD in July 1959. They had one daughter, Tracy Lynn Ritenour. Donald passed away on Dec. 10, 2001, with burial in Normalville Cemetery. When photographed in 2013, the Christman grave marker was highly decorated with pink, white and light blue flowers and small. American flags.

Daughter Althea " Kay" Durstine (1955-2012) was born on Dec. 8, 1955 in Connellsville. She was raised by her uncle and aunt, Dewey and Zolla (Rose) Swope. At the age of 23, Kay married Dean E. Pletcher in about 1978. They had one daughter, Kristin Nicole Pletcher. Kay was employed as a secretary with Anchor Hocking Company in Connellsville. She also was an instructor in adult computer classes at Connellsville Vo-Tech School. The Greensburg Tribune Review reported that she "helped out with Vacation Bible School and always enjoyed sharing the love of God and her faith in Jesus. Kay enjoyed flea marketing, yard sales and especially getting bargains for her family. When Kay wasn't enjoying her favorite stores, she spent most of her time with her family, planting flowers and being outside playing with her favorite dog, Doodle." When she came down with cancer, she was supported in prayer by the Normalville United Methodist Church and drew support from the Nicholson Cancer Fund. Kay passed away at the age of 56 on July 26, 2012. Her obituary in the Tribune-Review said she had "a joyous, kind and loving presence and enjoyed helping others. Kay had such a kind soul that many times she put others' needs ahead of her own." She was laid to rest in the Normalville Cemetery, joining four earlier generations of her ancestors, dating to 1865 and the death of her great-great grandmother, Sarah (Ansell) Minerd.

~ Son Charles J. Rose ~

Son Charles J. Rose (1909-1989) was born on Oct. 17, 1909. 

He married Margaret Lancaster (1917-1954), a distant cousin who was the daughter of Matilda Elizabeth (Miner) Grim Lancaster and granddaughter of Enoch Miner Sr. 

They resided in both Connellsville and Normalville during their marriage, and produced a family of 12 children -- Percy B. Rose, Joseph Rose, Charles Rose, Elender "Eleanor" Pirl, Alverta Mae Swope Porterfield, Dornella Pirl, Margaret Tressler Kingan, Christine Porterfield Victor, Elma Jean Ritenour, Melvin Rose and two sons who died in infancy. 

Charles was a longtime coal miner for the Beacon Fuel and Coal Co. of the Normalville area. 

In January 1930, the Colborn Motor Company filed a civil law suit against Charles for an unpaid bill of $23.70 "for goods sold and delivered." The case was heard by cousin William Henry "Squire" Miner, a justice of the peace in Mill Run. Margaret died at age 37 on Dec. 20, 1954, leaving Charles a widower at age 45. 

Tragically, son Melvin -- an employee of Eastern Associated Coal Company at Hunker, Westmoreland County, PA -- was killed in a head-on automobile collision near Connellsville in June 1976, at the age of 31. Adding to the heartache, grandson Harold Douglas Pirl (1974-1977), drowned in Indian Creek at age three near his home; grandson Timothy Daniel Pirl (1961-1997) died at age 35 of injuries sustained in an automobile accident in 1997; and grandson Rev. Larry S. Rose was killed in a vehicular accident at age 36 near Kreager, Westmoreland County, in December 2002.

Circa 1975, Charles made his home in the Arlington Hotel.

Charles passed away at age 79 on April 18, 1989. At the time of his death, he and Margaret had produced 32 grandchildren and 30 Grandchildren. 

Daughter Elender Rose (1935-1992) was born in 1935. She married Harold D. Pirl (1928-2010), the son of William and Elsie (Porterfield) Pirl. They resided in Rogers Mill, where Harold "was a sawmill worker for various sawmills in the area," said the Connellsville Daily Courier. They had seven children -- Thomas Pirl, Timothy Daniel Pirl, Donald Pirl, William Pirl, Linda Bentz, Virginia Swope and Della Smith. Eleanor passed away first, on Aug. 4, 1992. Harold died in the Harmon House in Mt. Pleasant, Westmoreland County, on Sept. 2, 2010, at the age of 81. He was laid to eternal rest in Normalville Cemetery, following a funeral led by Rev. Terry Upton. The Courier noted that he was survived by 13 grandchildren and 28 Grandchildren.

• Granddaughter Virginia Pirl married Arnold Hensel and Roy J. Swope (1935-1998). She had three children: Harold Douglas Pirl, Charles Pirl and Kimberly Pirl. Her second husband, Roy Swope, died on Aug. 15, 1998, with burial in Normalville Cemetery.

• Grandson Timothy Daniel Pirl (1961-1997) was born on July 16, 1961. He died just five days before his 36th birthday on July 10, 1997.

• Granddaughter Della Pirl married Ricky Smith.

• Grandson Donald Pirl

• Granddaughter Linda Pirl wed James Bentz.

• Grandson Thomas Pirl married Tammy.

• Grandson William Pirl married Jackie.

Daughter Alverta Mae Rose (1937-2012) was born on Aug. 26, 1937 in Normalville. Her first husband was Harry Dilford Swope ( ? - ? ), whom she married in 1955 in Connellsville. They produced three known children -- Bishop Robert Swope Sr., Cindy Knieriem and Hazel Boyd. Later, in about 1962, she wed Dan F. "Tucker" "Bones" Porterfield (1936-2012), the son of Ben and Leona (Ritenour) Porterfield. The couple produced a son of their own, Dan Porterfield Jr. They were members of the New Apostolic Tabernacle of Keisterville, Fayette County, and Dan belonged to the KFC Bowling League, Eagles 493 and Slovak Club. Dan was employed by a railroad company and later went to work for the Connellsville School District, a position from which he retired. Said the Connellsville Daily Courier, he "enjoyed hunting, fishing, bowling, softball, horseshoes and spending time with his family." The Porterfields passed away in the same year, ending a marriage which had lasted for half a century -- Dan first on June 12, 2012, at the age of 75, and Alverta on Sept. 30, 2012, at the age of 75, in the Harmon House in Mount Pleasant. An obituary in the Daily Courier said she was survived by 10 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren. Burial was in Normalville Cemetery.

• Grandson Bishop Robert Swope Sr. married Anna Mae and dwelled in Connellsville. In 2012, he officiated at the funeral of his stepfather and mother.

• Granddaughter Cindy Swope married Marvin Knieriem ( ? -2000), son of Eugene L. and Bettie (Evans) Knieriem. They had at least one son, Merv Knieriem. Tragically, Marvin was shot and killed in a home invasion on May 13, 2000, at the hands of a South Connellsville man. The killer was convicted of second degree murder and is serving a life sentence plus a second term of seven to 24 years at the SCI-Dallas Prison. She resided as a widow in Irwin, Westmoreland County.

• Granddaughter Hazel Swope married Mike Boyd and dwelled in Connellsville.

• Grandson Dan "Huck" Porterfield Jr. was wedded to Joanne and made their home in Connellsville.

Son Percy B. Rose (1940 - ? ) was born on May 10, 1940. He lived in Connellsville in 2007 and in Irwin, Westmoreland County in 2012.

Son Charles Eugene Rose (1943-2007) was born on April 12, 1943. He wedded Dolly Pirl (March 20, 1939-2018), daughter of William and Elsie (Porterfield) Rose of Normalville. The couple were together for 43 years until the separation of death. They resided in Indian Head, Fayette County and produced these known offspring -- David J. Rose, Mark A. Rose, Steve L. Rose, Kenneth "Kenny" Rose and Robin Lea Dial in addition to two who died in infancy. The Roses were members of the Juniata Church of Jesus Christ. Charles was employed at several sawmills in the region over the years. He was an outdoorsman and loved to fish. Dolly enjoyed cooking and working in her garden. Sadly, they endured the death of their son Steve in 2002. Five years later, at the age of 63, Charles passed away at home on Feb. 19, 2007. Dolly survived him by 11 years. As her health failed, she was admitted to Excela Westmoreland Hospital in Greensburg. She succumbed there at the age of 79 on April 30, 2018. Her pastor, Rev. Ronald E. Boyd, led the funeral service, with interment in Mt. Nebo Cemetery in nearby Champion, Fayette County. Her obituary was printed in the Connellsville Daily Courier.

• Grandson David J. Rose married Ranelle and lived in Indian Head in 2012.

• Grandson Mark A. Rose was joined in matrimony with Amy. Their home in 2002-2007 was in Mount Pleasant, Westmoreland County.

• Grandson Rev. Larry Steven "Steve" Rose (1966-2002) was born on Aug. 30, 1966 in Connellsville. In about 1987, at the age of 21, he was united in wedlock with Sherry Lee Shawley ( ? - ? ). They were the parents of Steven J. Rose and Stacey L. Rose. For two decades, Steve worked for Kenny Nicholson Lumber. Later, he became employed as a stock person with Wal-Mart in Mount Pleasant. He also served as pastor of Rich Hill Church in Bullskin Township. Tragically, on Dec. 3, 2002, at the age of 36, he succumbed to injuries suffered in a vehicle accident. Following services held in his parents' church, the Church of Jesus Christ in Juniata, with Rev. Ronald E. Boyd officiating, his remains were placed into repose in Mount Nebo Cemetery. An obituary appeared in the Connellsville Daily Courier.

• Grandson Kenneth E. "Kenny" Rose married Yvonne and they reside in Indian Head.

• Granddaughter Robin Lea Rose married A.J. Dial. She resided in 2007-2018 in Jacksonville, FL.

Son Melvin Carl Rose Sr. (1944-1976) was born on Sept. 12, 1944. Circa 1963, he married his first wife, Carolyn Elaine Jennings ( ? - ? ), daughter of Edgar and Thelma (Johnson) Jennings of Connellsville and stepdaughter of Peter Zadylak, of the family of Alvin Howard and Lydia J. (Kemp) Jennings Sr. Their marriage license was announced in the Uniontown Morning Herald. The Roses produced one known daughter -- Thelma Denise Darrell Meyers. He was frequently in trouble with the law in the late 1960s and mid1970s, ranging from vehicular accidents and burglary to fights to paternity charges. The couple separated by early 1971, with Carolyn maintaining a residence at 212 West Austin Avenue in Connellsville. Melvin later wed Nancy Lee (Basinger) Secrest (Aug. 6, 1945-2023), the daugher of Sarah Basinger. She was a 1963 graduate of Connellsville High School. She too had been married before and brought five of her own offspring to the union -- Gerald "Jerry" Secrest, Deanna Sirgey, Kelly Smitley and Jennifer "Jenn" Brown. Melvin and Nancy produced a son of their own, Melvin Carl Rose Jr., also known as "Melvin C. Secrest." Melvin Sr. was employed in the mid-1970s by Eastern Associated Coal Company at Hunker, Westmoreland County, and was a member of the United Mine Workers of America. Nancy was involved in a vehicular accident in October 1975 when she was rear-ended by her husband's car at a stop sign on South Hickory Street in Connellsville. The collision caused a five-car chain reaction, with her vehicle pictured in the Daily Courier. Melvin again made news in June 1976 when stabbed by his brother-in-law William Clayton Basinger in a fight in Melvin's home. Sadly, less than two weeks later, Melvin was killed while driving an automobile which collided with another vehicle on the Springfield Pike on June 15, 1976, at the age of 32. Reported the Daily Courier, accompanied by front-page two photographs of the wrecked car, "Rose was heading north when he crossed the center line and smashed headon into the [Ronald] Culver machine." Melvin's passenger, 22-year-old Carl W. Donaldson, was injured in the smashup. Melvin's remains were interred in Normalville Cemetery. In a card of thanks published in the local newspaper, the family extended its gratitude to Rev. Cecil DeWitt, the Stillwagon Sisters, Brooks Funeral Home, South Connellsville Ambulance Crew and others who assisted. On the last day of 1976, in a year-end wrapup, the Daily Courier included a reference to Melvin's death among newsy events of the year. Nancy outlived her spouse by a remarkable 47 years and made her dwelling in Connellsville. She supported herself as a cook at Tartal’s Restaurant, Scottdale and the Connellsville YMCA, and eventually joined the staff of Adelphia Village where for 15 years she served as dietary coordinator. As her health failed, she was admitted to Independence Health System Westmoreland Hospital, There, at the age of 78, she died on Sept. 1, 2023. Her remains were lowered under the sod of Greenlick Cemetery following services by the hand of Pastor Mike Hazelton.

• Granddaughter Thelma Denise Rose (1965-2016) was born on May 29 1965 in Connellsville. When she was six years of age, her photo was printed in the Connellsville Daily Courier as a birthday tribute. She married (?) Darrell and (?) Meyers and was the mother of McKenzie Dawn Meyers. Her final years were spent in Connellsville as a companion of Christine Marie Davis ( ? - ? ), who appears to have brought three stepchildren into the partnership -- Katie Nicole Davis, Shane Alan Matthews and Cody Powell Davis. Said an obituary, "Thelma loved to play bingo, go to casinos, playing cards, and most of all, spending time with her family. She was Protestant by Faith." Sadly, after contracting cancer, Thelma died in Pittsburgh's UPMC Shadyside Hospital at the age of 51 on Sept. 17, 2016. She was survived by four grandchildren. Burial was in Normalville Cemetery.

• Grandson Melvin Carl Rose Jr. (1969-2017) was born on Nov. 29, 1969 in Connellsville. He was six years of age at his father's tragic death. Melvin later used his stepmother's first married name, "Secrest." Melvin made his home in Connellsville. He entered into the bonds of marriage with Tammy Ansell ( ? - ? ). Three daughters born into this family were Caitlyn Secrest, Jessica Secrest and Emily "Emmy Jo" Secrest. A construction worker, he was employed by Dynamic Building Corporation and Morton Buildings before launching T&M Construction, his own firm. Said an obituary, "Melvin loved to work construction... He did local construction work, but most of his work was done at Seven Springs Mountain Resort on the condominiums. He loved coaching slow, fast, and traveling softball. He enjoyed hunting, 4-wheeling, and quad riding." Sadly, at the age of 47, Melvin died without warning on March 4, 2017. Pastor Bob Chambers led the funeral rites.

• Step-grandson Gerald "Jerry" Secrest resides in Connellsville.

• Step-granddaughter Deanna Secrest wed William "Shultz" Sirgey. They live in Connellsville.

• Step-granddaughter Kelly Secrest was joined in matrimony with Keith Smitley. Connellsville is their home.

• Step-granddaughter Jennifer "Jenn" Secrest was united in wedlock with Robert "Butch" Brown. They put down roots in Connellsville.

Son Joseph Verl Rose Sr. (1948-1999) was born on Dec. 29, 1948. He married Mary L. Knopsnider ( ? - ? ) and later Linda L. Pahel Hoyman ( ? - ? ). He is said to have had eight children: Jenni Rose, Amanda Rose, Kayla Rose, Joseph Verl Rose Jr., Jeffrey Rose, Tyler Rose, Preston Rose and Hayley Rose. Joseph's home circa 1976 was in Huntingdon, PA. Joseph Sr. died on June 16, 1999, at age 51, with burial in Normalville Cemetery.

• Granddaughter Jenni Rose

• Granddaughter Amanda Rose

• Granddaughter Kayla Rose

• Grandson Joseph V. Rose Jr.

• Grandson Jeffrey Rose

• Grandson Tyler Rose

• Grandson Preston Rose

• Granddaughter Hayley Rose

Daughter Christine Rose ( ? - ? ) was born in (?). Circa 1968, she married Holbert L. Victor Sr. ( ? - ? ), a resident of Uniontown. News of their marriage license was printed in the Connellsville Daily Courier. The Holberts are believed to have been the parents of Marci Victor and Holbert L. Victor Jr. Circa 1971-1973, they dwelled in the rear of 330 East Crawford Avenue in Connellsville. The couple separated and in the mid-1970s, with Christine moving to 314 North Pittsburgh Street and Holbert to Uniontown. She suffered a neck injury in a one-vehicle accident in August 1975. Later, she became the companion and presumably spouse of George R. Porterfield (Oct. 1, 1946-2020), son of Ben and Leona (Ritenour) Porterfield. (In a twist, George's sister Harriet E. Porterfield wedded Christine's cousin Robert L. Giles of the family of Lucinda Jane "Jennie" (Miner) Turner Stevenson Paolone.) These other children were involved with the family in some way -- George Porterfield, Ben Porterfield, Randy Porterfield, Steven Porterfield, Michael Porterfield, Sue Ellen Porterfield, Ann Porterfield and Edith Porterfield. The Porterfields resided in Connellsville. Sadly, George died on Dec. 18, 2020. Pastor Leonad Pirl preached the funeral sermon, with burial following in Mt. Auburn Cemetery in Dunbar. His obituary was printed in the Connellsville Daily Courier.

• Granddaughter Marci Victor (1971- ? ) was born in about 1971. She endured a number injuries as a child. When she was age five, she was shot in the right eye with an air rifle pellet. At the age of six, she was hurt in a fall from a third floor porch at their home at 314 North Pittsburgh Street, and endured injuries of the back, abdomen and left leg.

• Grandson Holbert L. Victor Jr. ( ? -living) was born in (?). He was joined in wedlock with Erica Dixon ( ? -living), daughter of William and Barbara Dixon. They made a home in South Connellsville's Painter Street and were the parents of Dawnielle Paige Victor, Lucas "Bubby" Victor and Brittnie "Sissy" Victor. The Victors enjoyed sports, country music, hunting and demolition derbies. Tragedy plunged the family into grief when 12-year-old daughter Dawnielle and a friend were riding in an automobile driven by Dawnielle's mother on Jan. 13, 2012. The vehicle crossed the centerline on snowy Breakneck Road and collided with an oncoming vehicle. Dawnielle was rushed to Children's Hospital in Pittsburgh, where she died later that day. The friend also died The Connellsville Daily Courier reported in an obituary that burial was in Mt. Auburn Cemetery. Friends held a candlelight vigil for the two, and the Greensburg Tribune-Review published a story, headlined "Vigil Held to Remember Young Accident Victims."

• Step?-grandson George Porterfield

• Step?-grandson Ben Porterfield

• Step?-grandson Randy Porterfield

• Step?-grandson Steven Porterfield

• Step?-grandson Michael Porterfield

• Step?-granddaughter Sue Ellen Porterfield

• Step?-granddaughter Ann Porterfield

• Step?-granddaughter Edith Porterfield

Daughter Dornella Rose ( ? - ? ) married Clyde Pirl ( ? - ? ). Her home in 2007 was in Ohio.

Daughter Elma Jean Rose ( ? - ? ) married Harry Ritenour ( ? - ? ). They had one daughter, Sarah Kelly Spaugy.

• Granddaughter Sarah Kelly Spaugy

Daughter Margaret Rose was born in (?). She was wed to Wesley Oliver Kingan Sr. (1934-2001), son of Arthur Kingan. Wesley was a U.S. Army in the Korean War, as a machine gun specialist with the 7th Infantry Division's 1st Regiment. They produced a family of six children -- Nancy Hall, Wesley O. Kingan Jr., Sherry Taylor, Vicky Leonard, Arthur Raymond Kingan and Michael Kingan. Circa 1975, the family made a home at 120 North A Street in Connellsville. Sadly, Wesley Sr. died on March 11, 2001, with burial in Mt. Auburn Cemetery in Dunbar, Fayette County. In 2012, Margaret lived in Connellsville.

• Granddaughter Nancy Kingan (1966- ? ) was born in about 1966. She was pictured in the Connellsville Daily Courier in 1975 to mark her ninth birthday. She wedded (?) Hall.

• Grandson Wesley Oliver Kingan Jr. (1967- ? ) was born in 1967. At his eighth birthday, in 1975, he was pictured in the Connellsville Daily Courier.

• Granddaughter Sherry Taylor (1968- ? ) was born in 1968. When reaching her sixth birthday, in 1975, she was pictured in the Connellsville Daily Courier.

• Granddaughter Vicky Kingan (1969- ? ) was born in about 1969. She married (?) Leonard.

• Grandson Arthur Raymond Kingan (1970- ? ) was born in about 1970.

• Grandson Michael Kingan

~ Daughter Viola Ellen (Rose) Donaldson ~

Daughter Viola Ellen Rose (1912-1981) was born on March 5, 1912. 

She married widower George Scott Donaldson (1893-1978). He had been married once before, to Carrie Elizabeth Clayton ( ? -1932), who had died in 1932. 

The couple went on to bear seven children -- Howard Donaldson, Paul Donaldson, Jeanette Loncharick Nicholson, Alma Amy, Delphis Showman, Catherine Swarner and Virginia Rowells. 

Said the Daily Courier, George "was a resident of Normalville for over 50 years. He was employed as a timberman. He also worked for the TV Railroad, Bethlehem Steel and Vang Construction Company."

The Donaldsons attended the Assembly of God Church. 

George passed away at age 84 on May 4, 1978, and was buried in Normalville Cemetery. At the time of his death, they had produced 25 grandchildren, 31 great grandchildren and two great-great grandchildren. 

Viola died at age 59 on Dec. 7, 1981, and rests beside her husband.

Son Howard Donaldson

Son Paul Donaldson

Daughter Jeanetta Pearl Donaldson (1934-2004) was born on Feb. 5, 1934 in Normalville. She was the mother of one daughter, Shirley Valdora (Donaldson) Knopsnider. Jeanette was married twice. Her first spouse is believed to have been Steve F. Loncharick (March 15, 1923-1967), son of Anthony and Theresa (Guynarich) Loncharick of Latrobe, Westmoreland County. Steve was self-employed and a licensed dealer of cattle. They attended the Church of Jesus Christ at Clinton. At the untimely age of 43, Steve suffered a massive heart attack at home on Jan. 7, 1967 and was rushed to Connellsville State General Hospital, where he was pronounced dead on arrival. Funeral services were held in the family church, with Rev. Warren Upton officiating. Burial was in Normalville Cemetery. Later, Jeanette wedded Robert E. Nicholson ( ? - ? ). The couple's address was 115 Indian Creek Road in Springfield Township. Tragedy struck on the fateful day of Nov. 29, 2004. With the couple apparently arguing, Jeanette "chased her husband ... while wielding a butter knife," reported the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review. They ended up outdoors with Jeanette moving onto the road where she was struck by an oncoming vehicle, with her body flipped over that vehicle and hit again by another in the opposite direction. She was pronounced dead at the scene of the accident. Interment of the remains was in Normalville Cemetery.

• Granddaughter Shirley Valdora Donaldson ( ? - ? ) married Allen Knopsnider ( ? - ? ), son of Harold Knopsnider of Normalville. They made a home in White, Fayette County circa 1974 and were the parents of Tony Allen Knopsnider.

Daughter Alma Amy

Daughter Delphis Donaldson married (?) Showman.

Daughter Catherine Donaldson was joined in marriage with (?) Swarner.

Daughter Virginia Donaldson was united in matrimony with (?) Rowells.

~ Daughter Zola (Rose) Swope ~

Daughter Zola Rose (1914-1991) was born on Sept. 16, 1914. 

She married Dewey W. Swope (1915-1967) on Sept. 4, 1937, when she was age 23 and he 22.

They were lifetime residents of Normalville, and were members of the Church of Jesus Christ at Clinton.

They no children of their own, but raised three of their Durstine nieces who were sisters -- Ivy Christman, Margie Dumbauld and Kay Pletcher. 

Dewey passed away at age 51 on March 29, 1967, and was buried at Normalville Cemetery. 

Zola outlived her husband by almost a quarter of a century. She died on Aug. 19, 1991, with  burial in Normalville Cemetery.

~ Daughter Zella (Rose) Durstine ~

Daughter Zella Rose (1916-2011) was born on New Year's Eve 1916 in Rogers Mills, Fayette County. 

She married Joseph P. Durstine (1915-1984), a coal miner, in August 1938.

The Durstines had no children. They resided in Normalville for many years, where Zella was employed in Uniontown Hospital as a licensed practical nurse and in about 1971 moved to Washington, D.C.  Later, they moved to Florida, where Zella continued her occupation as a licensed practical nurse. She also was the owner of Paradise Valley Restaurant, and in her spare time was an evangelist preaching the "ole time religion," said the Connellsville Daily Courier.

Joseph passed away in 1984. 

At some point Zella returned to Fayette County. In her later years, she focused on travel and Gospel preaching as "a statesman of the sermon and a scholar of the scriptures," said the Courier. Among her favorite hymns was "In the Sweet By and By." 

Suffering from Alzheimer's, Zella passed away at the age of 94, in Excela Health Frick Hospital in Mt. Pleasant, PA, on Dec. 2, 2011. Following a funeral led by Rev. Mark Shotis, she was laid to rest in the Normalville Cemetery. She was the last surviving member of her immediate family, and one of the last living grandchildren of a Civil War soldier in our expanded, massive clan.