Minerd.com Biography of George E. & Althea (Prinkey) Rowan of Mill Run, PA

He is said to have been nicknamed "One-Armed George" to differentiate him from his cousin George S. Rowan, living nearby in Mill Run.

In about 1893, when he would have been 25 years of age, George was united in holy wedlock with 18-year-old Althea "Alice" Prinkey (1875-1946), the daughter of John A. and Mariah (Murray) Prinkey.

The couple produced a family of eight children -- Arthur Rowan, Sylvia Prinkey, Jennie Anderson, Clark Rowan, Charles L. Rowan, Joseph "Domer" Rowan, Earl Rowan and Howard Rowan.

Sadly, they lost an infant son on Oct. 13, 1916, born prematurely at 7½ months, living only for four hours and never gaining strength. They also tragically lost adult sons Howard (in 1928) and Charles (1936) in coal mine accidents.

The Rowans resided near the Indian Creek Reservoir, where George labored for many years as a farmer.

In January 1928, he filed a legal complaint against Fred Bowers, asking for payment of $110 in return for a tractor plow he had sold. The case was heard by cousin William Henry "Squire" Miner, a justice of the peace in Mill Run. George won the civil suit and was paid the following month. Apparently unable to write his own name, George signed the paperwork with an "X."

George injured his left foot in April 1944 and an infection of gangrene set in. With the deadly illness, added to hardening of the arteries, he was taken for treatment to Connellsville State Hospital, where he remained for five weeks.

He passed at the age of 76 away the day after D-Day -- June 7, 1944 -- and a little more than one week after the death of his cousin, George S. Rowan. His obituary was published in the Connellsville Daily Courier.

She died at age 71 of bronchial pneumonia on June 15, 1946. At the time of Althea's death, said the Daily Courier, she and George had produced 33 grandchildren and 25 great-grandchildren. They both rest for eternity in the Indian Creek Baptist Church Cemetery in Mill Run.

During World War II, the deaths of the two Georges were noted in a hometown newsletter, The Messenger, sent to soldier in the armed forces, and edited by a distant cousin, Ferne (Minerd) Work. One Messenger article in March 1946 reported that: "Since many of you left Mill Run quite a few folks have been laid to rest. To name a few who have passed away during the last year or so George S. Rowan, George E. Rowan, ... and my grandfather Minerd."

She married James "Nelson" Anderson (June 12, 1891-1960), a native of New Brighton, Beaver County, PA, and the son of Marion and Sarah (Johnson) Anderson.

The couple produce a dozen children -- James Ellsworth "Jay" Anderson, Calvin A. Anderson, Lewis Anderson, Mildred A. Miner, Della Mae Arzberger Cuica, Lauretta Shipley, Bertha Shipley, Richard C. Anderson, Howard R. Anderson, Lewis Emery Anderson, Jennie Elaine Anderson and a daughter who died in infancy.

Sadness blanketed the family when son Lewis, age four months, contracted acute milk poisoning and died on Sept. 22, 1930. Again, death visited the family on Jan. 10, 1932 when daughter Jennie Elaine succumbed to bronchial pneumonia at the age of only one month.

In 1913, when he was about 22, Nelson is believed to have been employed as a night watchman by the McFarland Lumber Company in Indian Creek near Mill Run. He left that job in August 1913 and went to Connellsville to look for work. Nelson was a coal miner for Rice and Wilkins Coal Company in Mill Run circa 1917, when he registered for the military draft during World War I.

Later, he labored as a miner for the Eastern Gas and Fuel Associates with membership in the United Mine Workers of America local union in Melcroft. When work was scarce, he farmed.

In 1940, when the federal census enumeration was made, the Andersons lived under the roof of Jennie's parents near Mill Run.

Nelson suffered from what physicians referred to as "senile psychosis" in his later years. He was stricken with a heart attack and passed away at home on Feb. 25, 1960, at the age of 68. His obituary was printed in the Connellsville Daily Courier.

Jennie survived her husband by 16 years. She died at the age of 82 on Oct. 30, 1976, at the Connellsville State General Hospital. Her remains were buried at Indian Creek Baptist Cemetery. At the time of her death, the Courier said that Jennie was survived by 43 grandchildren and 92 great-grandchildren.

Daughter Bertha M. Anderson (1915-1999) was born in 1915. She wed Charles Kenneth Shipley (Aug. 16, 1914-1981), son of Charles C. Shipley of Mill Run. They resided in Buchanan, PA, Ligonier, Westmoreland County in 1971 and in Mill Run in 1976. The couple together produced at least 10 known children -- Clifford Clark Shipley, Thomas Shipley, Elgie Shipley, Jennie Nicholson, Patricia Miller, Kenneth N. Shipley, Sandra Shipley, Angela Shipley, Richard Shipley and Robert Leroy Shipley. Charles died on Feb. 28, 1981. Bertha lived another 18 years. She passed into eternity in 1999.

Daughter Lauretta Anderson (1922-1999) was born on Sept. 3, 1922. She married Walter H. Shipley (March 4, 1917-1993). They produced five known children -- David Claydean Shipley, Roger Lee Shipley Sr., George E. Shipley Sr., Frankie Shipley and Ruth Ann Shipley. Lauretta lived in Mill Run circa 1977. Walter passed into eternity in 1993. Lauretta died in 1999.

Grandson Roger Lee Shipley Sr. ( ? - ? ) was born in (?). As a young man, he was employed as a mechanic by the City Auto Center of Connellsville. On Oct. 11, 1975, in a ceremony held at the Mill Run United Methdist Church, he was united in wedlock with Cheryl A. Bigam ( ? - ? ), daughter of Hughey Bigam of Mill Run. Rev. Robert Blank officiated. In a story about the wedding, which included a prominent photograph of the couple, the Connellsville Daily Courier reported that Cheryl wore "a floor-length gown of satapeau satin with an overlay of venise lace. The gown was enhanced with wide neckline, long bishop sleeves of venise lace and fitted bodice with two rows of tiny seed pearls at the waistline." At the time of marriage, Cheryl earned a living at Sears, Roebuck & Company in Uniontown. They produced a son, Roger Lee Shipley Jr. Roger Sr. was deceased by 2015.

David Shipley's workplace, Anchor Hocking Glass in Connellsville, PA

Grandson David Claydean Shipley (1946-2021) was born on St. Patrick's Day 1946 in Mill Run. He was a 1965 graduate of Connellsville Area High School, and that year he worked in Clairton, PA in an automotive garage. He is believed to have been twice-wed. His first wife was Loretta Mae Garletts ( ? - ? ), daughter of Jacob Garletts of Mill Run. Together the pair bore a daughter, Christine Bryner. In time he married Bonnie K. Stroko (June 24, 1951-2022), daughter of Edward Paul and Huldah Catherine (Bittinger) Stroko. She brought a son to the union, Edward John Stroko. Their marital union endured for 35 years. Bonnie was an alumna of North Union High School. The couple lived in Mill Run. Two other children in this family were Steve Shipley and Keith Shipley. David went on to a working career of 37½ years with the cap plant of Anchor Hocking Glass Corporation in South Connellsville. Bonnie also spent more than three decades with Anchor Hocking. David retired in December 2000 at the age of 64. In his retirement years, he liked to travel, cruise, watch NASCAR races, fish, hunt and dine at Bud Murphy's restaurant in Connellsville, home of "world famous pizza." The family belonged to the Indian Creek Baptist Church in Mill Run. As his health failed, he was admitted to Bella Healthcare in Uniontown. He died there on May 3, 2021 at the age of 75. An obituary in the Connellsville Daily Courier said that he was survived by 11 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren and that he "was the last surviving member of his immediate family." A memorial service was held at the family church, led by Rev. Chris McLaughlin. Bonnie only outlived her sposue by a little more than a year. Death swept her away at home on Oct. 30, 2022. Rev. Randy Newell officiated the funeral service at the family church.

Step-great-grandson Edward John Stroko married Tina and resided in Uniontown

Great-granddaughter Christine Shipley married (?) Bryner. Her home in 2022 was in Mill Run.

Great-grandson Steve Shipley wedded Jeanie. They have lived in Ligonier, Westmoreland County, PA.

Great-grandson Keith Shipley has made his home in Everson, Fayette County.

Grandson George E. Shipley Sr. (1943-2015) was born on Aug. 13, 1943 in Mill Run. He joined Anchor Hocking Glass Corporation in South Connellsville and worked there in 1964. At the age of about 21 in 1964, he married Jean Karen Dahl ( ? - ? ), daughter of Charles Dahl of Indian Head. The couple's marriage endured for 51 years. The couple had three children -- George E. Shipley Jr., Dana Bowser and Craig Scott Shipley. They were members of the Indian Creek Baptist Church in Mill Run. George was a longtime die setter with Anchor Hocking Corporation in South Connellsville. Sadness enveloped the family when infant Craig died at the age of one day on June 1, 1965. George died at age 72 on Aug. 16, 2015 in Excela Health Latrobe Hospital. Rev. Christopher McLaughlin officiated at the funeral service with burial in the church cemetery.

Son James Ellsworth "Jay" Anderson (1913-1969) was born in about 1913. He married Ethel Pearl Smith (1918-2009), daughter of Charles Emanuel and Alice Mae (Hillen) Smith of Connellsville. They made a residence in Melcroft for decades, and were members of Davistown United Methodist Church. Their family of offspring included Nettie L. Ruff, Betty Burnsworth, Larry Ray "Butch" Anderson, William C. Anderson, Robert G. Anderson, Edward Anderson, David Anderson, Wanda Smith, Linda McMillen and Judy Charlton. At least two of their children graduated from Connellsville High School and another from Rockwood High School in Somerset County. Ethel was a longtime cook at the Pike Run Country Club, where her sister in law Doreen (Snyder) Anderson was club manager. Sadly, James died in 1969, with burial in the Indian Creek Baptist Church in Mill Run. Ethel outlived her husband by a remarkable four decades. As can often occur with people who live long lives, she suffered the deaths of three adult children and a grandson. She spent her final years in Mt. Lebanon, near Pittsburgh. At the age of 91, she succumbed at home on Dec. 16, 2009. Following funeral services led by Rev. Paul Freidhof, she was laid to rest in the Indian Creek Baptist Church Cemetery, with an obituary published in the Connellsville Daily Courier.

Granddaughter Nettie L. Anderson (1940-2004) was born on April 6, 1940 in Melcroft, Fayette County. In about 1958, when Nettie was age 18, she married Harry Edward Ruff ( ? - ? ). Their marriage endured for 46 years until the separation of death. They were longtime members of Davistown United Methodist Church. They produced four offspring -- Connie Lender, Carol Ritenour, Kenth Ruff and Brian Ruff. With Nettie's health plummeting, she was admitted to UPMC Presbyterian Hospital in Pittsburgh. She passed away there at the age of 64 on Oct. 17, 2004. An obituary in the Connellsville Daily Courier reported that Rev. Paul Freidhof officiated at the funeral service, with interment following in Brown Cemetery in Saltlick Township.

Granddaughter Betty Jane Anderson (1936-1995) was born on June 3, 1936. She married Charles W. Burnsworth (Jan. 22, 1931-1998), son of Ralph and Ida Bell Burnsworth and stepson of James Barkley of Ohiopyle, Fayette County. Their marriage lasted for 43 years. They bore a family of offspring -- James K. Burnsworth, Robert B. Burnsworth, Kevin R. Burnsworth and Joyce A. Howell. Charles served in the U.S. Army from 1952 to 1960. Circa 1993, the couple lived in Daugherty Township near New Brighton, Beaver County, PA. Sadly, at the age of 59, Betty Jane died on Aug. 15, 1995 in the Medical Center of Beaver. Rev. Don Blinn Jr., pastor of the Zion United Methodist Church of Rochester, officiated at the funeral service. In an obituary in the Beaver County Times, the family asked that any memorial donations be made to the American Cancer Society. Charles then moved to nearby Rochester. Charles was cut away by the Grim Reaper on Feb. 11, 1998. They are in eternal rest in Sylvania Hills Memorial Park in Beaver County.

Grandson Larry Ray "Butch" Anderson (1948-1993) was born on June 15, 1948 in Melcroft. He was a graduate of Rockwood High School. He was married and the father of two sons -- Michael Wayne Anderson and Steven Paul Anderson. They lived in Melcroft. Larry was employed as a millwright at the Clairton Works of U.S. Steel Corporation and belonged to the Clairton Local 1557 of the United Steel Workers of America. In the community, he was a volunteer with the United Way and Pittsburgh's Central Blood Bank. He also was president of the Roaring Run Sportsmen's Club and a member of the Mount Pleasant Veterans of Foreign Wars and Scottdale American Legion, where he competed on the legion's bowling squad. Tragedy interrupted his very active life when he was badly injured in an automobile accident and died at the age of 45 on July 11, 1993. Rev. Gald Brooks officiated at the funeral service, with burial in Mt. Nebo Cemetery in Saltlick Township. An obituary was printed in the Somerset Daily American.

Grandson William C. "Bill" Anderson married Joann and lived for many years in Greensburg, Westmoreland County.

Grandson Robert G. Anderson (1945-2009) was born on March 30, 1945 in Melcroft. In about 1966, when he was 21, Robert was joined in wedlock with Margot E. Wuerl ( ? - ? ) of Germany. The marriage spanned 43 years. In 1969-1970, he served in the U.S. Army in Vietnam as part of a 20-year military career. After retiring from the Army, he spent two decades working for the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections in Greensburg, Westmoreland County. They lived in Salem Township near Greensburg and produced three children -- Wayne K. Anderson, Brenda A. Anderson and Sandy J. Paulich. In Robert's spare time, he "was a member of the Slickville American Legion and the Donegal VFW," said the Greensburg Tribune-Review. "He loved to hunt and fish, and looked forward to hunting camp at "Happy Acres", where he was known as the camp cook. He also enjoyed playing pool and was a member of APA. He shot pool for 'The Honeybees' team. He was always willing to lend a hand and he could always be counted on." Robert died at the age of 64 just two days before Christmas 2009. Sharing rites for the funeral service were Rev. Fred Heitzenroder of the Salem Lutheran Church of Delmont and members of Post 981 Honor Guard of South Greensburg. Burial with military honors was in Twin Valley Memorial Park in Delmont. An obituary was printed in the Tribune-Review.

Grandson Edward B. "Ed" Anderson made a home in Melcroft, Fayette County in 1993-2004.

Grandson David Anderson was united in matrimony with Brenda. They were in Acme, Westmoreland County in 2004.

Granddaughter Wanda Anderson married Julius "Jay" Smith. They made a residence in Youngstown, Mahoning County, OH and were the parents of Terry Smith. Sadly, the son was deceased by 2009.

Granddaughter Linda Anderson wedded Robert "Bob" McMillen. Circa 2004, they were in Champion, Fayette County.

Granddaughter Judy Anderson was joined in marital union with Ronald Charlton. They established a home in Mt. Lebanon in the south hills of Pittsburgh.

Elyria, Ohio, home to Della May (Anderson) Arzberger Ciuca

Daughter Della May Anderson (1918- ? ) was born in about 1918. She apparently was wed twice, first to Arden Arzberger (Sept. 24, 1914-1956), son of John and Myrtle (Paul) Arzberger of Mill Run. They were the parents of Ruth Arzberger, James B. Arzberger, Meredith Arzberger and Harold Duane Arzberger. The couple made a home in Springfield Township, Fayette County in 1940, as shown by the federal census. At that time, Arden earned a living as a construction laborer. He enjoyed his membership in the Mill Run Sportsmen Club. The family grieved when infant son Harold died just a few days after birth on April 28, 1945. The child's remains were laid to rest in the Indian Creek Baptist Church Cemetery, with Rev. M. Hulihan officiating. Circa 1956, Arden was employed by the Pennsylvania Department of Highways. On the fateful day of March 31, 1956, Arden took his own life at home using a .12 gauge shotgun. He committed the act while his family was away, and the body was discovered by their teenage daughter Meredith. Interment also was at the Indian Creek cemetery, again led by Rev. Hulihan. Della's second spouse was (?) Ciuca ( ? - ? ). In 1960, using the name "Ciuca," she resided in Baden, Beaver County, PA. She relocated to Elyria, OH and was there in 1976.

Granddaughter Ruth Arzberger (1935- ? ) was born in about 1935 in Springfield Township, Fayette County. She wedded (?) Gosser ( ? - ? ). Circa 1956, the Gossers made a home in Manor, Westmoreland County, PA.

Grandson James B. Arzberger (1939- ? ) was born in about 1939 in Fayette County, PA.

Granddaughter Meredith Arzberger ( ? - ? )

Son Calvin A. Anderson (1924-1993) was born on Dec. 22, 1924. During World War II, he served in the U.S. Army Air Corps. He married Gladys E. (?) (1928- ? ). The couple lived in Connellsville for decades. The Angel of Death carried him away on Dec. 19, 1993. His remains rest in the Indian Creek Baptist Church Cemetery.

Son Richard C. Anderson (1927-2005) was born on Dec. 29, 1927. He wedded Doreen E. Snyder (Nov. 1, 1923-2006), a native of Melcroft, Fayette County and the daughter of Braden R. and Daisy (Barron) Snyder. They were the parents of Donna Anderson, Dianne Perkins, Susan Bell and Randy Anderson. The couple resided for many years in Champion, Fayette County. For a quarter of a century, Doreen worked at Pike Run Country Club and eventually became the club's manager. They were members of the County Line Church of the Brethren, and Doreen was active with the church's Ladies Aid Society. Richard died at the age of 77 on Aug. 13, 2005. Doreen lived for another eight months as a widow and succumbed as a patient in Excela Health Westmoreland Hospital at the age of 82 on April 14, 2006. Her remains were lowered into eternal repose in Indian Creek Baptist Church Cemetery, with Rev. Barry Conn officiating at the funeral service.

Son Howard Ray Anderson (1933-2021) was born on Feb. 7, 1933 in Mill Run, Fayette County. During the Korean War, from 1953 to 1956, he served in the U.S. Navy. At the age of 20, on July 11, 1953, he was united in matrimony with his first bride, Janet L. Lanning (Aug. 16, 1934-2012), daughter of Alvin Clarence and Opal Ruth (Hull) Lanning of Normalville. Their marital union endured for 58½ years. They bore a family of two daughters, Catherine "Cathy" O'Brien Hull and Sharon Foster. The Andersons spent their married lives in Ohio -- circa 1960 in Barberton and by 1976 in Doylestown, Wayne County -- where he was employed for 42 years by PPG Industries. For two decades, Janet was employed at the locak K-Mart. In her free time, she liked to read poetry and admire birds and flowers. Janet passed away in Doylestown at the age of 77 on April 11, 2012. Rev. Randy Newell led the funeral service held at Indian Creek Baptist Church, with an obituary published in the Akron Beacon Journal. Howard outlived his wife by nine years and returned to Connellsville. He wed a second time to Ida Ruth (Hull) Johnson. She too had been married previously and brought these adult children to the second union -- Glenn Johnson, Donna Bigham and John Johnson. He held a membership in the Hampton Church of God in Mill Run and enjoyed watching NASCAR races, guns and travel. Sadly, he succumbed to the spectre of death at home on Aug. 23, 2021 at the age of 88. Rev. Bobby Miner presided at the funeral service.

He married a cousin, Grace Bigam (1900-1984), daughter of David D. and Lucinda (Cole) Bigam, and granddaughter of John and Eliza (Harbaugh) Bigam. The two families were close, and Charles' brother Earl married Grace's sister Geraldine.

At the age of 37, in about May of 1936, Charles began employment as a coal laborer at the Boston No. 4 (or 5) mine of the Vesta Coal Company at Vestaburg, a job to which he commuted from his home. Compounding the family history of coal industry tragedy, he was killed at the mine on Aug. 18, 1936, after only having worked there for three months. Said the Daily Courier:

Rowan ... was decapitated and two other workers miraculously escaped a similar fate ... when a large slab of slate let go as they were leaving the Vestaburg workings after completing their day's work. The trio comprised a group of workmen who had left the man trip several minutes before the tragedy. Rowan was struck by the full force of the slate which landed on his head and severed it from his body, according to Deputy Edward Hagerty of Millsboro. The fatality was the first of the year at the Vesta Company mine.

Charles' funeral drew 600 mourners. It was held at the Mill Run United Brethren Church, led by Rev. Frank S. Wortman, Rev. Paul O. Morris and the Junior Order of United American Mechanics. Said the Daily Courier, "A quartet composed of Mr. and Mrs. William Griffiths, Edward Hiltabidel and E.D. Small, with Miss Alice Small at the piano, sang 'Face to Face,' 'Abide with Me' and 'Going Down the Valley.' The Vestaburg Local of the United Mine Workers of America came in a large delegation and led the funeral process from the home to the church and then to the cemetery, holding its ritual at the grave.

The pallbearers were George Colborn, E. Sturgis Colborn, Robert Laughery, Dayton Newill, Preston Williams and Foster Bigam." Burial was in the Indian Creek Baptist Church Cemetery. Later that month, Grace placed a classified advertisement in the Daily Courier, saying: "I take this means of expressing my sincere appreciation and thanks to my many kind neighbors, friends and relatives for their many acts of kindness and sympathy following the death of my husband. Especially do I desire to thank the U.M.W. of A., the Jr. O.U.A.M. for their service, those who sent flowers, those who so kindly furnished cars and all who assisted me in any way."

As a widow, Grace kept herself busy with family and community activities and occasional out of town visits. She died in July 1984 at the age of 83.

He married Opal "Marie" Kemp (1912-2003), the daughter of William T. and Mary Jane (Showman) Kemp.

The Rowans lived in Mill Run and had 10 children -- Howard Kemp Rowan, Domer Ellsworth Rowan, David Rowan, Donald Rowan, Bradley Rowan, Jeffrey Rowan, Marjorie Miller, Janet Young, Sharyn Gorman and Debra Hoyman.

In the fall of 1926, Domer was employed by the Indian Creek Mine Drainage Company. He injured his back at work and underwent treatment, and received $196 from the company as compensation. However, when seeking additional recompense, he was turned down because "of his failure to file and application for the renewal of his compensation within the one year period," reported the Uniontown Daily News Standard. He appealed to the Court of Common Pleas of Fayette County and lost the case per the ruling of a panel of three judges.

Domer later was the proprietor of a general merchandise store and gasoline filling station in Indian Creek. He was robbed at gunpoint at the store in September 1931, which made news in the Daily Courier. Later, he was a longtime line foreman for the West Penn Power Company.

Marie was seriously injured in an automobile accident in about 1934. A July 23, 1934 story in the Daily Courier said she was "getting along as good as could be expected."

Later, they resided at Breakneck, near Connellsville, for more than three decades.

Domer passed away at the age of 72 on Sept. 8, 1974 "following a lingering illness," said the Daily Courier. He was survived by 21 grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

Marie outlived her husband by more than 30 years. She attended the Church of Christ in Connellsville. She died at the age of 90, at Frick Hospital in Mount Pleasant, Westmoreland County, PA on Jan. 7, 2003. She was laid to rest at Green Ridge Memorial Park near Connellsville, with Rev. David Brothers leading the service. A newspaper obituary placed the count of her survivors as 26 grandchildren and "numerous" great-grandchildren.

Son Howard Kemp Rowan (1928-2006) was born in 1928 and apparently was named for his ill-fated uncle who was killed in a coal mine accident that year. He married Betty Herman ( ? - ? ) and was the father of Ann "Penny" Rowan, Kevin D. Rowan and Brian L. Rowan. Howard served in the U.S. Navy for 26 years and was a veteran of World War II, Korea and Vietnam. Upon his retirement in 1973, said the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, he "led the fight to keep the Los Alamitos Naval Air Station open. In his retirement, he had a successful civilian career as he served as the director of public works for the cities of Cerritos, Pomona and Irvine, Calif. he also was very active in local politics, serving on the Cypress City Council and as mayor of Cypress." Howard died in Cypress at the age of 77 on March 30, 2006. Following funeral services at Forest Lawn Memorial Park, his remains were shipped back to his hometown for burial at Green Ridge Memorial Park, with Rev. Philip Ramstad officiating at the interment service.

Son David Rowan ( ? - ? ) was born in (?). He married Nancy Berger ( ? - ? ), daughter of Robert M. and Janet (Stein) Berger of Bay City, MI. The Rowans lived in Westminster,CA in 1974 and in Essexville, MI in 1999-2006.

Son Domer Ellsworth Rowan ( ? - ? ) served as an interior communications electrician fireman apprentice in the U.S. Navy in the mid-1950s. Circa 1955, he was stationed on the U.S.S. Burdo which was in the Caribbean on his third midshipman training cruise. He married Sarah ( ? - ? ). The couple made a home in San Diego in 1974, in Sumter, SC in 2003 and in later years in Haines City, FL.

Son Donald Rowan ( ? - ? ) was united in wedlock with Diane. They resided in Stark, FL in 1974, Utah in 2003 and in Middletown, DE in 2006.

Son Bradley Rowan ( ? - ? ) wedded Debbie ( ? - ? ). The couple dwelled in Canonsburg, Washington County, PA in 2006.

Son Jeffrey Rowan ( ? - ? ) was joined in matrimony with Kim ( ? - ? ). The Rowans were in Connellsville, Fayette County, PA in 2006.

Daughter Marjorie Lois Rowan (1931-living) was born in 1931. She was a 1947 graduate of Connellsville High School. Marjorie was twice-wed. On June 25, 1949, she entered into marriage with her first spouse, Joseph Davis Miller (1922-2009). Three sons produced by this couple were Gary D. Miller, Joseph "Greg" Miller and Alan "Kent" Miller. The first marriage ended in divorce in January 1962, with Marjorie citing "indignities," as reported in the Connellsville Daily Courier. In time, by 1967, she married Daryl Miller ( ? - ? ). They dwelled in Indian Head and Melcroft. The second marriage resulted in a daughter, Lisa Miller. Marjorie was included in a group photograph at her 20th high school class reunion in 1967 in the Daily Courier. Circa 1974, the family was in Florida. By 2006, Marjorie had returned to Pennsylvania and lived in Monroeville, near Pittsburgh.

Daughter Janet Rowan ( ? - ? ) was joined in wedlock with (?) Young ( ? - ? ). Her home in 2006 was in Raeford, Hoke County, NC.

Daughter Sharyn D. Rowan (1949-1995) was born on April 28, 1949. She was united in matrimony with John Gorman ( ? - ? ). They made a residence in Mount Pleasant and Scottdale, Westmoreland County. Sadness enveloped the family when Sharyn died on March 22, 1995, at the age of 46.

Daughter Debra Rowan ( ? - ? ) wedded Bert Hoyman ( ? - ? ), son of Samuel R. and Dorothy (Hoyman) Holzer of Youngstown, PA. They dwelled in Mount Pleasant, Westmoreland County, PA in 1974 and eventually relocated to Connellsville, Fayette County, PA.

On April 6, 1925, at the age of 21, Earl eloped to Cumberland, MD to marry a cousin, 19-year-old Geraldine Bigam (1906-1999), the daughter of farmers David D. and Lucinda "Lucy" (Cole) Bigam, and granddaughter of John and Eliza (Harbaugh) Bigam. The nuptials were led by Rev. Paul E. Blakney.

The two families were close, and Earl's brother Charles married Geraldine's sister Grace.

The couple resided in Mill Run and bore five known children -- Gladys L. Basinger, Barbara W. Bryner, Donna Jane Novak, James Orland Rowan Sr. and Mary Louise Glotfelty.

Circa 1940, when the federal census enumeration was made, Earl labored as a trackman in local coal mines. He eventually joined Eastern Gas and Fuel Company of Melcroft, and retired from the firm.

Geraldine enjoyed hosting meetings of the Mill Run Women's Christian Temperance Union (WCTU) at their home. They were longtime members of the Mill Run United Methodist Church.

Near-tragedy occurred in mid-July 1965 when Earl and Geraldine, who were riding together in their automobile near Armbrust, Westmoreland County, was struck broadside by another vehicle. Earl suffered a contusion of his right hand while Geraldine's right knee was cut and her head and right arm bruised.

The Rowans hosted an August 1966 visit from Geraldine's cousins Gladys Carpenter of Ashtabula, OH and Edna Bigam of Cleveland. They also enjoyed extended visits their their daughter Mary Louise Glotfelty in Michigan. In April 1975, they celebrated their golden wedding anniversary with an open house at the Mill Run United Methodist Church and a family dinner at Glisan's Restaurant along Route 40. To mark the event, their photograph and an article were published in the Daily Courier.

Geraldine survived for another 11 years and died on July 9, 1999. They are buried at Indian Creek Baptist Church Cemetery. At the time of Geraldine's passing, she had 17 grandchildren and 34 great-grandchildren.

Daughter Gladys L. Rowan (1926-2020) was born on March 9, 1926 in Mill Run, Fayette County. At the age of seven, having had perfect attendance at school through 2nd grade, she fell from a school bench on which she and friends were seated, and the bench landed on her finger, cutting off the tip. News of her injury was published in the Connellsville Daily Courier. At the age of 17, on April 15, 1943, Gladys wed James Edward "Chuck" Basinger (1922-1984), son of Levi "Lee" and Susan Basinger of East Connellsville. The ceremony was held in the parsonage of the East End United Brethren Church, with Rev. J.W. Ritchey officiating. At the time, James was serving as a private in the U.S. Army during World War II, and he immediately returned to his post at Fort Sam Houston, TX. By 1965, the family returned to Mill Run and made their home on Hampton Road. The couple produced four children -- Robert Earl Basinger, Edward William Basinger, Donetta Thiel Graham and George David "Cubby" Basinger. Sadly, James died in 1984. Gladys outlived her husband by 36 years, making her residence in Connellsville, and during the 1990s endured the deaths of her sons Edward and George. At the end, she dwelled in Hillside Estates Suites, where she succumbed to the angel of death at the age of 94 on Sept. 17, 2020. Burial was made in the Indian Creek Baptist Cemetery in Mill Run, and with a distant cousin officiating the funeral -- Rev. Lee Maley of the family of Martha Ellen (Mayle) Mayle of Philippi, WV.

Daughter Barbara W. Rowan (1928-2016) was born on Oct. 15, 1928 in Mill Run. She married Clifford E. Bryner (1920-2013). The couple made their home in Uniontown and produced three children -- Edgar "Earl" Bryner, Wonetta Miller and Dennis Bryner. They made their home in Ohiopyle and were longtime farmers. Barbara was talented with creativity and laid her own ceramic tile floor. Clifford was well known for his woodworking skills and ability to produce Adirondack chairs. Clifford passed into eternity on Feb. 21, 2013. Barbara survived him by three years. She succumbed in Farland Hospital in Sandusky, OH at the age of 87 on March 25, 2016. Her remains were brought back to Uniontown for interment in Sylvan Heights Cemetery. A distant cousin, Rev. Lee Maley -- of the family of Martha Ellen (Mayle) Mayle -- officiated at the funeral service. The family asked that any memorial donations be made to Stine Hospice Care of Sandusky.

Grandson Edgar "Earl" Bryner ( ? - ? ) was born on July 24, 1950 in Connellsville. His early years were spent in Markleysburg, PA, and he was a 1969 graduate of Uniontown Area High School. He went on to study nursing at Uniontown Hospital School of Nursing. On June 9, 1972, at the age of 21, he wed fellow nursing student Michele Shanaberger ( ? - ? ). Their nuptials were held at the United Methodist Church in Carmichaels, PA. Together the pair produced a family of two sons -- Jeffrey Bryner and Gregory Bryner. Earl then joined the U.S. Air Force during the latter part of the Vietnam War and made it his career for two decades. Among the air bases where he served were Andrews in Maryland, Udorn in Thailand, Lackland in Texas, Travis in California, Tyndall in Florida and Lajes Field in the Azores, Portugal. He used the opportunity to receive further education through the Air Force Anesthesia Program and then obtained a bachelor of science degree from Southern Illinois University and a master's from Troy State University. He received many medals and commendations. Earl retired in 1993 with the rank of lieutenant colonel, and the family settled in Burleson in North Texas. There he became a nurse anesthetist at Texas Wesleyan University, Harris Methodist Fort Worth Hospital, Plaza Medical Center, Huguley Memorial Hospital and Cleburne Surgery Center. He retired in 2018. Sadly, Earl surrendered to the angel of death on Aug. 21, 2023 at the age of 73.

Great-grandson Jeffrey Bryner tied the knot with Delta. They lived in Colorado Springs in 2023. They are the parents of Zoey Bryner.

Great-grandson Gregory Bryner entered into marriage with Whitley. In 2023, the couple was in Burleson, TX. Four offspring of this union are Kaylyn Bryner, Cheyanne Bryant, Channing Bryner and Cayden Bryner.

Son James Orland Rowan (1936-2010) was born on about April 9, 1936. On Oct. 25, 1957, the 21-year-old James was united in wedlock with Joyce "Carolyn" Smith (July 24, 1939-2023), daughter of Homer Melvin and Regina (Prinkey) Smith of Mill Run and granddaughter of G.L. Smith of Mount Pleasant. In announcing the engagement, Carolyn was pictured in the Connellsville Daily Courier. Carolyn had attended school in Perryopolis but was a 1957 graduate of Connellsville High School. The couple honeymooned in Michigan and Canada and went on to enjoy 52 years of marriage. James earned a living circa 1957 as a truck driver for Hagan and Fikes' Dairy in Uniontown. They had three children -- Kathy Gail Herchko, James O. "Chip" Rowan Jr. and Karlo Jo White. Said the Connellsville Daily Courier, James "was the owner/operator of James O. Rowan Milk Hauling and also worked for Arsenberger Trucking of Mill Run for 30 years. He was a member of the Mill Run United Methodist church, the Springfield Twp. Vol. Hose Co. for many years, and the Early American Friday Night Bowling League for 37 years." In February 1967, having moved into a new home, the family received many housewarming gifts from the Ever Ready Sunday School Class of their church. Said the Daily Courier, Carolyn "was employed by Kathryn's Jewelry of Connellsville for 25 years and she also assisted her son in the operation of Chip's Corner Cafe for many years. Carolyn was an avid bowler having been in many bowling leagues in Connellsville and Greensburg, both ladies leagues and couples leagues, and she was most proud of her 299 score she achieved. She was a long time member of the Mill Run United Methodist Church." A lifelong resident of Mill Run, James died at the age of 74 on April 19, 2010. He was laid to rest in the Indian Creek Baptist Church Cemetery. Their dark black grave marker, photographed in July 2016 by the founder of this website, is etched in color with scenes from nature. Carolyn remained in Connellsville circa 2020 and at the end was back in Mill Run. Suffering with Alzheimer's, she died on Dec. 8, 2023 in Mountain View Memory Care in Hempfield Township near Greensburg. Rev. Rob Kifer presided the funeral rites. In an obituary, the family asked that any memorial contributions be made to the Alzheimer's Disease Research Center of the University of Pittsburgh.

In the spring of 1928, unmarried at the age of 20, he was employed as a coal miner at the Mather Colliery in Greene County, PA. The plant consisted of some 4,400 acres in the town of Mather north of the village of Jefferson.

Tragically, on May 19, 1928, Howard was one of 194 unfortunate coal miners caught in a fatal explosion at the mine. A coroner's jury ruled that "this disaster was caused by an explosion of explosive gas and coal dust in the north side of the mine. The primary cause of which explosion is unknown." The Connellsville Daily Courier stated that it was "one of the most disastrous explosions in the history of Pennsylvania soft coal mining... Edison Tedrow, Howard Rowan and H.A. Wells are believed to have met with death. Their bodies have not been found."

As of June 2, two weeks later, the Courier reported that his body was still beyond the grasp of recovery teams. The following day, however, his corpse was were found and identified. His was the 190th body to be removed from the death scene, with only three remaining, according to the Charleroi (PA) Mail.

His remains were laid to rest in the Rowan plot at the Indian Creek Baptist Church Cemetery, with a red granite marker erected there in his memory. His brother Clark signed his official Pennsylvania certificate of death. The tragedy is summarized in a rare book, The Mather Mine Disaster, on file today in the rare book room of the Uniontown Public Library.

She married John Austin Prinkey (1909-1974), son of Walter Mountain and Catharine (Ridenour) Prinkey.

They were lifelong residents of Springfield Township and produced 13 children -- Helen Mansberry, Marian E. Radcliff, Ronald Bradley Prinkey, Bernard Ray Prinkey, William "Clark" Prinkey, John Wayne Prinkey, Gerald Paul Prinkey Sr., Douglas Prinkey, George Prinkey, Raymond Prinkey, Elsie Dial, Nancy Richter and Shirley Cady.

Circa 1940, when the federal census enumeration was made, the family lived in Springfield Township, with John earning a living as a laborer with the Works Progress Administration (WPA).

Sadness enveloped the family when two sons died in infancy -- Ronald in 1936 and Bernard in 1950.

John died at the age of 64 on Jan. 15, 1974. Burial was in Normalville Cemetery.

Sylvia outlived her spouse by two decades. She succumbed on July 19, 1994 at age 80.

Daughter Helen M. Prinkey (1930-2011) was born on Sept. 15, 1930 in Connellsville. She was united in matrimony with Jack Leroy Mansberry ( ? - ? ). They were Protestants. The Mansberrys produced five children -- Nancy D. Hill, Janet M. Dawson, Jack L. Mansberry, Donald G. Mansberry and Jimmy J. Mansberry. Their home in 1985 was in Normalville and in 2006-2008 was in Connellsville. Helen passed into eternity while at home in Connellsville at the age of 80 on March 14, 2011. Rev. Rob Allison officiated at the funeral service followed by interment in Normalville Cemetery. The Connellsville Daily Courier printed an obituary.

Daughter Marian E. Prinkey (1933-1999) was born on June 1, 1933. She was joined in wedlock with (?) Radcliff ( ? - ? ). She passed away on Dec. 19, 1999 at the age of 66. Interment was in Normalville Cemetery.

Daughter Elsie J. Prinkey (1936-2011) was born on Nov. 28, 1936 in Mill Run. She wedded (?) Weimer ( ? - ? ), possibly (?) Dial and and later Parsons ( ? - ? ). All told, her offspring were Abraham Lee Prinkey, Norman Weimer, Brenda Wilt, Belinda Hart and Faith Ross. She lived in Hyndman, Bedford County, PA in 1985 and later in Mount Pleasant, Westmoreland County, PA. She spent her final years in Everson, Fayette County. As her health declined, she was admitted to Excela Health Frick Hospital in Mount Pleasant. She died there at the age of 75 on Dec. 13, 2011. Rev. William Nicholson preached the funeral sermon, followed by burial in Normalville Cemetery. An obituary appeared in the Greensburg (PA) Tribune-Review.

Daughter Nancy Louise Prinkey (1939-2006) was born on Jan. 17, 1939 in Connellsville. Nancy wedded (?) Richter ( ? - ? ). They bore four offspring, David Richter, Scott Richter, Deborah Woods and Susan Fisher. At some point, she took back her maiden name. She resided in New York circa 1985 and later for many years in Confluence, Somerset County. There, she "was a member of the Calvary Community Church of Fort Hill and Somerset Local U.S. Steel Workers," said the Somerset (PA) Daily American. "After her retirement, she worked part-time for the Deer Valley YMCA Camp." She died at the age of 67 in Select Specialty Hospital in Johnstown, Cambria County, PA on March 24, 2006. Rev. James Keslar officiated at the funeral service, with interment in Jersey Baptist Church Cemetery. An obituary was published in the Connellsville Daily Courier.

Son William "Clark" Prinkey ( ? - ? ) lived in Ohio in 1985 and White, Fayette County in 2006.

Son John "Wayne" Prinkey (1943-1985) was born on June 24, 1943 in Normalville. He was joined in holy matrimony with Elaine S. Sheetz ( ? - ? ). She brought a daughter to the marriage, Joy Mitchell. The Prinkeys were the parents of eight children of their own -- Robert Prinkey, Bruce Prinkey, John Prinkey, Sue Prinkey, Marian Prinkey, Peggy Prinkey, Charlotte Prinkey and Hazel Prinkey. Tragically, while driving on Roiute 35 north of Corriganville, MD, the 41-year-old Wayne was killed in an automobile accident. His remains were lowered into eternal repose in Hyndman Cemetery, with Rev. Fay E. Leidig leading the service. The Meyersdale Republic printed an obituary.

Son Douglas Prinkey ( ? - ? ) married Eileen. They made a residence in 2004-2006 in Sevren, MD and in 2008 in Millersville, MI.

Son Raymond Prinkey ( ? - ? ) wedded Pauline. The couple dwelled in Morrisdale, Clearfield County, PA in 2006-2008.

Son Gerald Paul Prinkey Sr. (1944-2004) was born on Oct. 21, 1944 in Normalville. Gerald was united in matrimony with Debra Pirl ( ? - ? ). Their seven offspring were Gerald Paul Prinkey Jr., Sylvia Owens, Geraldine Prinkey, Blair Prinkey, Dolly Prinkey, Jamie Prinkey and John Austin Prinkey. They dwelled in Springfield Township near Connellsville and were members of the Baptist Church. Sadly, Gerald passed into eternity at the age of 59 on June 16, 2004. Burial was in Normalville Cemetery, with Rev. William Nicholson officiating at the funeral service, and an obituary appearing in the Greensburg (PA) Tribune-Review.

Daughter Shirley J. Prinkey (1950-2008) was born on Oct. 1, 1950. She was united in marriage with (?) Cady ( ? - ? ). They did not reproduce. In 1985, she made a home in Kansas City, MO. After their marriage ended, she became a companion of Roger Lilley. She resided in 2006 in Mount Pleasant, Westmoreland County, PA. She was gathered away by the Grim Reaper in her home near Normalville at the age of 58 on Oct. 27, 2008. She rests for all time in Normalville Cemetery. The Connellsville Daily Courier published an obituary.

The couple produced five children -- Jean Harpster, Louise Pegg, Frank Rowan, Paul Rowan and Robert Rowan.

They lived in Bethelboro near Uniontown, Fayette County. For 36 years, Clark was employed with the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad. He retired as an engineer in on Sept. 30, 1961.

Daughter Jean Rowan (1929-1984) was born in 1929. She married (?) Harpster. Jean died in 1984 and is buried with her parents in Indian Creek Baptist Cemetery in Mill Run.

Daughter Louise Rowan ( ? - ? ) married Donald Pegg ( ? - ? ), son of Howard and Alice Pegg of Uniontown. Donald built a career over the years as an executive with Sears, Roebuck and Company. They were in Fairchance, Fayette County in 1954. By 1958, Donald was transferred to Charleston, WV where he was division manager of the furniture section. Then by 1961 they moved to to Buffalo, NY, where they remained for many years. Their known children were Esther Pegg and (?) Pegg. Louise was deceased by 2010.

Son Frank Rowan (1934-2010) was born in 1934. In about 1956, when he would have been age 22, he married Donna Lee Opalka ( ? - ? ), daughter of Andrew Opalka of the Hopwood-Fairchance Road. Their marriage endured for 54 years. They were the parents of six children -- among them Deborah Little, George Rowan, Brenda Dulik, Gary Rowan, Kimberly Ann Slampak and Lynn Rowan. They made their home in Hopwood, Fayette County. Frank passed away at home at the age of 75 on March 2, 2010, and was buried at Indian Creek Baptist Church Cemetery. Officiating at the funeral service were his brothers Paul Rowan and Robert Rowan.

Son Paul Rowan ( ? - ? ) was born in (?). In April 1961, Paul wedded Joyce Sybert ( ? - ? ), the daughter of James Sybert and a Uniontown native but a resident of Midway City, CA. Their nuptials were held in Ensenada, Mexico. At the time, Paul was attending Cerritos College and worked for the autonetics division of North American Aviation Inc., while Joyce was employed by Robert Hall. Offspring born to this union were two sons, Joseph Rowan and Troy Rowan. The couple established a home in Bellflower, CA. Later, they relocated to Garden Grove, CA and in 2010 were in Crawley Lake, CA.

Son Robert Clark Rowan ( ? - ? ) was born in (?). On Sept. 9, 1956, in nuptials held in the Liberty Street Church of God of Parkersburg, Wood County, WV, he was united in holy matrimony with Evelyn Cartmill ( ? - ? ), daughter of Rev. Charles E. Cartmill of Parkersburg. Her father performed the nuptials. The newlyweds were pictured in a Uniontown Morning Herald story about the wedding. Their first home was on Oak Street in Parkersburg, where he worked for Bell Telephone Company and she for Rodgers Jewelry Company. In 2010, they lived in Belpre, OH.