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Old Bethel Cemetery

Emily J. "Emma" (Younkin) Clevenger was born on Oct. 1, 1849 in Upper Turkeyfoot, Somerset County, PA, the daughter of Frederick J. and Delilah (Faidley) Younkin.

As the eldest of 11 siblings, as she grew to responsible age, she assisted her mother in the births of her younger brothers and sisters.

At the age of 23, on Nov. 3, 1872, she was united in marriage with 28-year-old Benjamin Franklin "Badger" Clevenger Sr. (March 19, 1844-1922), son of Paul and Lena (Whipkey) Clevenger and a native of Fulton County, PA..

The couple together produced 10 known children -- among them Rebecca Jane Leer, John Clevenger, Frederick "Fritz" Clevenger, Albert Charles Clevenger, Anna Umble, Benjamin Franklin Clevenger Jr., Sarah Ellen Clevenger, Ida Clevenger, Lola "Pearl" Kreger and Etta Kreger.

The family was heartbroken when baby daughter Sarah died just eight days before her first birthday on Feb. 2, 1881. Her precious remains were placed into rest in the Delilah Younkin Cemetery.

The Clevengers resided on the farm where Emily had grown up. When the federal census was taken in 1880, four of their children had been born, and Badger labored as a farmer. Among their near neighbors were Emily's mother Delilah in addition to cousin Marcellus Andrews and his wife and children, of the family of Elizabeth (Younkin) Andrews.

In 1890, Benjamin at age 47 and his wife's cousin Nessly Younkin together signed an affidavit for another Younkin cousin by marriage, Civil War veteran Freeman Nichola, in support of the man's quest to secure a Civil War pension. They wrote that "We have known Freeman Nichola for at least twenty and thirty-five years [respectively] and do not believe that Lumbago and Disease of the Lungs was caused by any viciious Habits of Drinking to excess or overindulgence in anything..."

Benjamin was charged with assault and battery with intent to kill in 1891 on the accusation of John Metzler. The case went to trial in March 1891, and Benjamin was acquitted. The matter was cited in the Somerset Herald.

By 1900, still living in Upper Turkeyfoot, their neighbors included cousins Belinda (King) Younkin, of the family of Barbara (Younkin) King, and who was the widow of Freeman Younkin of the family of Rev. Herman and Susanna (Faidley) Younkin; Levi and Annie (Leichliter) Rose; and William Henry and Rachel (McClintock) Younkin.

Sadly, Emma suffered from heart valve disease, and on May 22, 1912 at the age of 62, she died suddenly of heart failure. Her cousin Dr. Winfield Scott Kuhlman, of the family of Louisa (Smith) Kuhlman, was her physician and signed her death certificate. Her remains were placed into repose in the Old Bethel Church of God Cemetery in Hexebarger, with Rev. Umstead leading the service. An obituary in the Meyersdale Republican said that:

Though not confined to her bed she had been gradually ailing until the end came. She was born near the place of her death... [She] was a woman of sterling character, highly respeced, a loving wife and mother, a true friend and kind neighbor. She was a sincere Christian and was a consistent member of what is known as the Old Bethel congregation of the Church of God, located in Upper Turkeyfoot township, for 50 years... The funeral was largely attended.

Signatures of Benjamin, Nessly Younkin and Freeman Nichola. National Archives

Benjamin survived for a decade as a widower. He endured the untimely death of his married daughter Annie Umble in 1917, and took in her son Scott Kreger to raise.

He suffered a stroke of apoplexy on April 1, 1922 which rendered him paralyzed on his left side. 

Benjamin suffered for a little more than five months, and then after contracting kidney disease, succumbed to the spectre of death at the age of 78 on Sept. 9, 1922. Interment was beside his wife in Old Bethel Cemetery.

~ Daughter Rebecca Jane (Clevenger) Leer ~

Daughter Rebecca Jane Clevenger (1873-1919) was born on Sept. 8, 1873 in Upper Turkeyfoot.

She was united in holy matrimony with William Austin Leer ( ? - ? ), somketimes misspelled as "Leary."

They produced eight known children -- Albert C. "Bert" Leer, Wilbert "Clyde" "Pat" Leer, Ralph "Abe" Leer, Elda Merrill, Zella Leer, Anna Catherine Leer, Edna Williams and Lola "Pearle" Irwin.

Rebecca contracted pneumonia in the winter of 1919 at a time when a deadly strain of influenza was sweeping the nation. She died on Jan. 11, 1919, at the age of 45. Her husband was the informant on her death certificate. Burial was in the Odd Fellows Cemetery in Kingwood.

Son Albert C. Leer (1898-1987) was born on April 24, 1898 in Upper Turkeyfoot. He married a cousin, Corda Emily "Cordie" Younkin (1894-1975), daughter of Oscar Emerson and Ellen S. (Nicola) Younkin and granddaughter of Jacob W. "Weasel Jake" and Catherine (Faidley) Younkin. They had no children. Bert was employed for many years by Musser's Bakery and was a professional locksmith for a quarter of a century. Cordie belonged to the Jehovah's Witness congregation in Somerset. They resided on Tayman Avenue. She passed into eternity at the age of 81 on Dec. 16, 1975. Bert died at the age of 89 on Dec. 4, 1987 in Somerset Community Hospital. His obituary in the Somerset Daily American noted that he was survived by 27 nephews and nieces. Burial was in Somerset County Memorial Park.

Rockwood's Market Street

Daughter Elda L. Leer (1908-1997) was born on Jan. 20, 1908 in Upper Turkeyfoot. She graduated from California State Teachers College and was a school teacher at the King School and in Rockwood. She married Harold James Merrill (1898-1960), son of William A. and Alice (Judy) Merrill of Garrett, Somerset County. Because of school rules, she became ineligible to teach after she was married. They had two daughters -- Betty Speicher and Alice Merrill. Harold was a longtime coal operator. They lived in Garrett and then moved into Somerset circa 1945 with their home address as 623 West Main Street. Elda was active with the Children's Aid Home of Somerset, Order of Eastern Star, the Welfare League of Somerset County and the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR). They enjoyed spending their winters in Palm Beach, FL. Sadly, at the age of 62, on Aug. 6, 1960, Harold was felled by an acute heart attack and died instantly. His remains were interred in Berlin Cemetery. Elda lived for another 37 years and in 1994 relocated to Shelburne, VT to be near her daughter Alice Merrill. She died in Wake Retirement Village in Shelburne at the age of 89 on July 7, 1997. Her remains were brought back to Somerset County to rest beside her husband's.

Son Wilbert Clyde "Pat" Leer (1902-1974) was born on Sept. 14, 1902 in Upper Turkeyfoot. He was united in wedlock with Marie Koontz ( ? - ? ). They produced these 15 known children -- Mrs. George O. Schrock, Mrs. Clarence Weimer, Mrs. William Margo, Richard Leer, Mrs. Paul Stewart, Mrs. Ernest Stahl, Wilbert Clyde Leer Jr., Mrs. William Frantz, Mrs. George Pitzer, Benjamin Leer, Edward Leer, Thomas Leer, Mrs. Phillip Londo, Peggy Leer and Samuel Leer. Wilbert died in Somerset Community Hospital at the age of 72 just four days after Christmas 1974. An obituary in the Daily American observed that his survivors included 30 grandchildren. Rev. Dennis Dawson officiated at the funeral service.

Daughter Lola Pearle "Jimmie" Leer (1914-1978) was born on March 25, 1914 in Upper Turkeyfoot. She married Richard L. Irwin ( ? - ? ). They made their home on Tayman Avenue in Somerset and had two sons, Richard L. Leer II and James Michael Leer. Pearle died at the age of 63, in Somerset Community Hospital, on March 16, 1978. Rev. Paul Weber preached the funeral service followed by burial in Somerset County Memorial Park. The Somerset Daily American published an obituary.

~ Son John Clevenger ~

Kingwood IOOF Cemetery

Son John Clevenger (1875-1924), also spelled "Clevinger," was born on Aug. 13, 1875 in Upper Turkeyfoot.

He never married and resided in Humbert, Somerset County, where he earned a living for decades as a farmer.

While in his mid-to-late 40s, John became an invalid, apparently after becoming afflicted with inflammatory rheumatism.

Suffering from bacteria-produced heart infection known as "acute endocarditis," he died at home at the age of 48 on Jan. 20, 1924. Funeral services were held in the Kingwood Church of God, followed by burial in the Kingwood Odd Fellows Cemetery. Brother in law William Austin Leer signed the official Pennsylvania certificate of death.

A small marker was erected at the grave in addition to a larger, upright stone bearing the words "Clevenger" and "Brother."

~ Son Frederick "Fritz" Clevenger ~

He was joined in marriage with Laura Belle Shultz ( ? - ? ) and possibly also "Mary" ( ? - ? ).

He produced seven offspring -- twins Edward G. Clevenger and Leroy Austin Clevenger, Charles "Beaver" Clevenger, Jacob "Jake" Clevenger, Mary Clevenger, Elsie Wagner and Leslie Clevenger.

October 1986

In an unusual circumstance, he also is believed to have had a son with Laura Belle named "Lester John Clevenger," born in 1910 and died of diabetes on Sept. 10, 1915, as marked on the child's death certificate, signed by an uncle, William Austin Leer. But the marker at the boy's grave in Kingwood reads "Frederick Clevenger McClintock," which could lead one to surmise the child was born out of wedlock.

Evidence suggests that Frederick outlived all but two of his offspring.

Laura Belle died first, but her details are not yet learned.

Frederick then went back home to live with his widowed father and unmarried siblings, where he is shown in the 1920 census. Frederick suffered from hypertrophy of his heart and died at age 55 on Sept. 20, 1933. A news obituary reported that his death occured "at his home, following a long illness." Mrs. H.C. Kreger of Markleton signed his death certificate. His remains were lowered into repose in the Kingwood IOOF Cemetery following funeral services held at the Clevenger home, officiated by Rev. Jacob Sanner.

Son Leroy A. Clevenger (1903-1981) was born in about 1903, in Humbert, Somerset County, a twin with his brother Edward G. Clevenger. He married Iva P. Hoover ( ? -1980). Their six children were Leweis Clevenger, Herb Clevenger, Vernon Clevenger, Violet Garlick, Donna Ravenscroft and Diane Clevenger. They made their residence in Markleysburg, Pa and were members of the Methodist Church. Iva passed away in May 1980. Leroy survived her only by about a year and a half and died at the age of 78 in Uniontown Hospital on Nov. 19, 1981. Burial was in Thomas Cemetery in Markleysburg, with Rev. Danny Parton leading the funeral service.

Son Edward G. Clevenger (1903- ? ) was born in about 1903 in Humbert, Somerset County, a twin with his brother Leroy A. Clevenger. On Dec. 26, 1942, at the age of 39, he was united in holy wedlock with a cousin, Elvia L. Younkin (April 18, 1917-2005), daughter of Harrison and Sarah (Ohler) Younkin of the family of "Weasel Jake" Younkin. They produced a son Warren R. Clevenger, and two babies who died in infancy. In about 1970, they relocated to Redkey, IN, where they remained for good. Elvia earned income as a cook at Hoover's Roost restaurant in Fairview, IN. They attended Fairview United Methodist Church, and she belonged to the United Methodist Women. Sadly, Elvia endured the deaths of her husband and son both in 1997. Elvia died at the residence of her widowed daughter in law at the age of 87 on Feb. 15, 2005. Burial was in Green Ridge Memorial Park near Connellsville, with Rev. Sharon Taylor leading the services. An obituary was published in the Connellsville Daily Courier.

Son Charles F. "Beaver" Clevenger Sr. (1907-1977) was born on May 24, 1907 in Upper Turkeyfoot. His nickname may have been a play on the moniker of his grandfather, "Badger" Clevenger. He was married twice. His first spouse was a distant cousin, Irene McCulley ( ? - ? ), daughter of Willis L. and Adaline (Younkin) McCulley of Confluence, of the family of John "Wesley" and Ada Charlotte (King) Younkin. They produced two sons -- Charles F. Clevenger Jr. and Harold Clevenger. The couple divorced. He wedded again to Pansy Johnson ( ? - ? ). They resided in the rural outskirts of Confluence and bore more children -- Daniel "Danny" Clevenger, Mona Weimer, Reba Woods, Barbara Beal and Bonetta Johnson. Charles died at age 70 on Dec. 1, 1977. Burial was in the Kingwood Odd Fellows Cemetery, with John Lebo officiating at the funeral, and an obituary appearing in the Somerset Daily American.

• Grandson Charles F. Clevenger

• Grandson Daniel "Danny" Clevenger

• Granddaughter Mona Clevenger was united in wedlock with (?) Weimer.

• Granddaughter Reba Clevenger was joined in marriage with Charles Frederick "Fred" Woods (Oct. 19, 1936-2011), originally from Humbert and the son of Smith and Mildred (Metheney) Woods. They were the parents of Charles F. Woods Jr., Michael A. Woods, Kimberly K. Woods, Randy E. Woods and Rodney E. Woods. Fred belonged to the Confluence post of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the Turkeyfoot Fish and Game Association. Sadly, at the age of 75, Fred died at In Touch Hospice House of Journey's Rest in Somerset on Nov. 11, 2011. An obituary appeared in the Somerset Daily American.

  Great-grandson Charles Frederick Woods Jr. (1959-2019) married a distant cousin, Patti Lytle, of the family of William "Wallace" and Amanda (Younkin) Hechler. Sadly, Charles Jr. died at the age of 59 on Sept. 25, 2019.

  Great-grandson Michael A. Woods dwelled in Ursina in 2011.

  Great-granddaughter Kimberly K. Woods also has resided in Ursina.

  Great-grandson Randy E. Woods was in Ursina in 2011.

  Great-grandson Rodney E. Woods established a dwelling-place in Addison.

• Granddaughter Barbara Clevenger married (?) Beal

• Granddaughter Bonetta Clevenger wedded (?) Johnson

• Grandson Harold Clevenger

Daughter Elsie Clevenger was wedded to (?) Wagner. In 1977, her home was in Markleysburg

~ Son Albert Charles Clevenger ~

Kingwood IOOF Cemetery

Son Albert Charles Clevenger (1882-1960) was born on Feb. 13, 1882.

He married Jessie Anna Snyder (1887-1929), daughter of Samuel and Dora (Ohler) Snyder. They resided in Upper Turkeyfoot and were longtime farmers.

Their four children were Irene Gerhardt, Melvin C. Clevenger, Lawrence L. Clevenger and Trellis Tressler.

Sadly, just a year after giving birth to their youngest daughter, Jessie contracted diabetes in 1928 and endured the disease for a year, until her death at the age of 41 on Jan. 17, 1929. Influenza and pneumonia were contributing factors in her demise.

Albert lived for more than three decades as a widower. He was a member of the Old Bethel Church and the Kingwood lodge of the International Order of Odd Fellows.

When the federal census enumeration was made in 1940, Albert resided in Upper Turkeyfoot, sharing his home with his married daughter and son in law, Trellis and Edgar Tressler. Their next door neighbors were married son and daughter in law, Lawrence and Marie Clevenger.

Circa 1940, Albert continued his life's work as a farmer, while son in law Edgar Tressler earned a living as a laborer with a local road project.

Albert contracted hypertension and heart disease which lingered for many years. He endured the untimely death of his 25-year-old married daughter Bertha Irene Gerhard in May 1936 due to pneumonia and influenza while undergoing a miscarriage.

At the age of 78, Albert was stricken with a stroke and died six days later, in Price Hospital in Confluence, on May 1, 1960. Lawrence Clevenger provided vital information for the death certificate. His remains were lowered into eternal repose in the Odd Fellows Cemetery in Kingwood. A newspaper obituary counted 14 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

Son Lawrence L. Clevenger (1901-1967) was born on Nov. 3, 1901 in Humbert. He married Marie Tressler ( ? - ? ). Their six children were Phyllis McClintock, Frances Nicklow, Albert "Sonny" Clevenger, Douglas Clevenger, Paul Clevenger and Arlene Clevenger. Lawrence was a carpenter by trade. He was a member of the Somerset Eagles and the Heavy Construction Union. Sadly, having suffered from chronic kidney ahd artery disease, he was stricken by a heart attack and died at home in Markleton at age 59 on Sept. 13, 1967. Rev. Edward Kelley preached the funeral sermon followed by burial in the Kingwood IOOF Cemetery. The widowed Marie married again to James F. Weller (March 8, 1917-1982), a native of Williamsport, Lycoming County, PA and the son of Lester and Ethel (Berger Stock) Weller. The couple made a home in Lewisberry, PA. James died at the age of 65 in Harrisburg's Polyclinic Medical Center on March 31, 1982. His remains were lowered into eternal repose in Rolling Green Memorial Park in New Cumberland. The widowed Marie returned to Markleton and was there circa 1984.

• Granddaughter Phyllis Clevenger (1931-2010) was born on March 14, 1931 in Upper Turkeyfoot. She married (?) McClintock ( ? - ? ). They were the parents of Connie Bryner. Phyllis earned a living over the years as a dietician for the Turkeyfoot Valley Area Schools. She also was a food service manager for the YMCA's Deer Valley Camp and managed the senior center of the Somerset County Area Agency on Aging. At some point Phyllis took back her maiden name. She spent her final years in Confluence. On Dec. 1, 2020, at the age of 79, she succumbed to death in Johnstown's Memorial Medical Center. Rev. Arthur J. Gotjen led the funeral service. Burial of the remains was in the Kingwood Odd Fellows Cemetery. An obituary was published in the Somerset Daily American.

• Granddaughter Frances Clevenger wedded John "Von" Nicklow, son of Harry Freeman and Mollie Belle (Tressler) Nicklow of the family of Freeman and Ellen (Firestone) Nicola. See the Nicola biography for more.

• Grandson Albert A. "Sonny" Clevenger (1934-1984) was born on Nov. 4, 1934 in Upper Turkeyfoot. He married Judith "Judy" Nicklow ( ? -living). Their two sons were Scott Randall Clevenger and Vic J. Clevenger. Albert was active in the community. At one time he was a school board director of the Rockwood Area School District. In his free time he enjoyed memberships in the Turkeyfoot Fish and Game Association and the Confluence post of the Veterans of Foreign Wars. He belonged to the Mt. Zion United Methodist Church. Sadness cascaded over the family when Albert died at the age of 49, on Oct. 30, 1984, as a patient in Somerset Community Hospital. Rev. Aimee Twigg officiated at his funeral service. For years afterward, on the anniversary date of his passing, the family placed an advertisement of remembrance in the Somerset Daily American. After Albert's death, Judith married (?) Hoffman and relocated to Soper, OK.

Tragically, their 55-year-old son Scott Clevenger (Nov. 18, 1963-2018) -- who in 1982 married Julie Ann Schnatterly of the family of Robert Bacom and Alice Elizabeth (Rugg) Harbaugh Jr. and had daughters Ashley Glover and Shyanne Clevenger -- and then in 1987 wedded Lisa Beth Colflesh, daughter of Chester and Evelyn Colflesh -- went missing in December 2017 after a night of drinking at a bar in Ursina. An investigation showed that his vehicle had broken down near railroad tracks on Colflesh Road. After a law enforcement search of several months, his body was found in the lower Youghiogheny River on March 18, 2018. Rev. Dean Hay Jr., a distant cousin several times over, preached the funeral sermon. Reports were that his cell phone was found in Addison, Somerset County -- quite a distance from the river -- and that foul play was suspected.

• Grandson Douglas D. Clevenger wedded Karen and made a home in Markleton. They were the parents of Lynn L. Clevenger. Douglas often was in the news for his hunting accomplishments.

• Grandson Paul A. Clevenger (1936-1995) was born on Nov. 19, 1936 in Upper Turkeyfoot. In about 1962, he was united in matrimony with Goldie Elaine Basinger (Nov. 2, 1944-2021), the daughter of Benjamin F. and Goldie E. (Rugg) Basinger of Morgantown, WV. Their marriage endured for 33 years. The couple produced a family of offspring -- Jeffrey Paul Clevenger, William Frederick Basinger, Paula Elaine Burnsworth, Lori McCarty, Jody Clevenger and Joshua Craig Clevenger. Paul was a member of Carpenter's Local 2274 of Pittsburgh. In his spare time, he was a member of the Cornhuskers Bluegrass Band, Old-Time Fiddler's Association and the Confluence post of the Veterans of Foreign Wars. Goldie earned income with her work for Faymore Manufacturing, South Fayette Nursing Center and Deer Valley YMCA Camp in Fort Hill. Sadly, at the age of 59, Paul died in Upper Turkeyfoot on Nov. 22, 1995. Rev. Vernon Witt preached the funeral service. Goldie outlived her spouse by more than a quarter of a century, remaining in Confluence. She was known for her "Friday morning" hair-dressing services and was a member of the Jersey Hollow Crew and the Ladies Auxiliary of the Confluence VFW post. Death swept her away at home at age 76 on June 10, 2021. Double cousin Rev. Dean Hay -- of the family of William "Wallace" and Amanda (Younkin) Hechler -- led the funeral serevice. Burial was in the Jersey Baptist Church Cemetery.

Great-grandson Jeffrey Paul Clevenger has made a home in Markleton.

Great-grandson William Frederick Basinger is a companion of Tina Enos and has dwelled in Confluence.

Great-granddaughter Paula Elaine Clevenger married Clarence Burnsworth. Circa 2021, they were in Quecreek, Somerset County.

Great-granddaughter Lori Clevenger wed Terry McCarty. They have made a residence in Confluence.

Great-grandson Jody Clevenger wedded Amy. They live in Fort Hill.

Great-grandson Joshua Craig Clevenger has resided in Confluence.

Arlene Clevenger's workplace

• Granddaughter Arlene Clevenger (1944-2009) was born on July 9, 1944 in Upper Turkeyfoot. She never married and spent her years in Markleton. At one time she was employed by Bender Shoe Company and by Seven Springs Mountain Resort. She belonged to the Turkeyfoot Fish and Game Association and the Ladies Auxiliary of the Veterans of Foreign Wars in Confluence. As her health failed, she was admitted to Johnstown's Memorial Medical Center, and succumbed to death at the age of 65 on Dec. 27, 2009. Rev. Paul Tobias led the funral, with burial following in the Odd Fellows Cemetery in Kingwood. An obituary was printed in the Somerset Daily American.

Son Melvin C. Clevenger (1906-1981) was born on April 20, 1906 in Markleton. He first married Margaret J. Wheaton (1907-1933), daughter of Wilmer Harrison and Sara Jane (King) Wheaton. Together they bore a family of two -- Eugene Clevenger and Sara Jane Hartfiel. The Clevengers in May 1932 relocated to West Virginia, where Melvin had found work as a railroad foreman. Their residence was in the Grant District of Marion County, WV. The family was plunged into grief when Margaret, who suffered from asthma, contracted bronchitis in the fall of 1933. Despite medical care from Dr. James M. Barr, she died on Nov. 21, 1933. at the age of 26. Melvin's second bride was Evelyn Tetrick (March 2, 1911-1995), originally from Fairmont, WV and the daughter of Thomas and Ada (McIntyre) Tetrick. Their children were Rebecca "Becky" Glisan, Nancy Turner Rice, Howard "Stanley" Clevenger, Marilyn "Louise" Spade McDowell and Jay Edwin Clevenger. Melvin died on April 27, 1981, at the age of 75, in Somerset Community Hospital. Burial was in the Kingwood IOOF Cemetery, with an obituary appearing in the Meyersdale Republic. Evelyn survived her husband by 14 years and lived in Hopwood, PA. As her health failed, she was admitted to Highlands Hospital in Connellsville and surrendered to the angel of death at the age of 84 on May 9, 1995. Her obituary in the Somerset Daily American noted that she was survived by 16 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren. Rev. Richard McClintock led the funeral proceedings, with burial in the Odd Fellows Cemetery in Kingwood.

• Grandson Eugene Melvin Clevenger (1928-2012) was born on Aug. 6, 1928. He married Louise Horvatincic ( ? - ? ). One daughter of this union was Carol Murray. Eugene served in the U.S. Army during World War II. The family relocated to Philadelphia by 1981. Eugene is known to have been a member of St. Christopher Seniors. Sadly, he passed away on Oct. 6, 2012. His obituary was published in the Philadelphia Inquirer and Philadelphia Daily News. Louise lived for another four years. Death spirited her away at the age of 87 on Aug. 30, 2016.

  Great-granddaughter Carol Clevenger entered into marriage with Bill Clevenger. Their duo of daughters were Amy Walker and Stephen Murray. 

• Granddaughter Sara Jane Clevenger (1931-1997) was born on March 3, 1931 in Confluence. On Sept. 19, 1950, at the age of 19, she wed Jack Messinger Hartfiel (July 31, 1931-2016), the son of Harold and Jennie Pauline (Hate) Hartfiel of Boswell. Their union endured the ups and downs of 46 years. The Hartfiels planted themselves in Hollsopple, Somerset County, with an address of 200 Waterway Drive. Their four daughters were Jacqueline Hartfiel, Melody Hartfiel, Holly Carr and Melissa Egts. Jack initially earned a living with Bethlehem Steel. He formed his own roofing and spouting company, J.M. Hartfiel Roofing, which he operated for many years even when still employed at Bethlehem. He also was a talented woodcrafter artist and attended shows throughout Pennsylvania, and with an interest in local history, held a membership in the Conemaugh Township Historical Society. Among his other interests was attending motor races at Jennerstown Speedway. Sara Jane belonged to the Maple Spring church of the Brethren and its Builders for Christ Sunday School. She also gave of her time with the Hollsopple Food Pantry. Sadly, Sara Jane passed away on May 1, 1997. In an obituary in the Somerset Daily American, the family asked that any memorial donations be made to the American Cancer Society. Jack outlived her by 19 years, with his residence at Thomasdale at the end. With his health in decline, he was admitted to reside in Laurel View Village in Davidsville. The angel of death cleaved him away on May 8, 2016. In an obituary, the Daily American said "Whether it was woodworking or water skiiing, Jack Hartfiel carved his art in wood and water." Pastor Jeffrey Bassette led the funeral rites. They sleep for eternity in Maple Springs Cemetery in Somerset County. Their granddaughter Lauren Egts graciously has contributed edits and content for this biography.

  Great-granddaughter Jacqueline Hartfiel wed Dennis Bender. They have lived in Cleveland. 

  Great-granddaughter Melody Hartfiel has resided in Thomasdale, Somerset County. 

  Great-granddaughter Holly Hartfiel married Dale Carr. Circa 2016, they were in Baltimore, MD.

  Great-granddaghter Melissa Hartfiel was joined in wedlock with David Egts. They established a home in Richland Township in Johnstown, PA before moving to Stow, OH. 

• Granddaughter Rebecca "Becky" Clevenger entered into marriage with (?) Glisan. Her home in 1981 was in Uniontown. 

• Granddaughter Nancy Nell Clevenger ( ? - ? ) appears to have been married twice. Her first husband was Grant Thomas Turner ( ? - ? ), son of Grant Thomas and Alice Louise (Gildroy) Turner Sr. of the family of Ulysses Simpson Grant and Mary Etta (Hilling) Turner. After a divorce, she wed (?) Rice ( ? - ? ) and in 1981 lived in Uniontown. She was deceased by 1995.

• Grandson Howard "Stanley" Clevenger dwelled in Uniontown in the early 1980s. He was in Republic, PA circa 1995. He was deceased by 2022.

• Granddaughter Marilyn "Louise" Clevenger (1947-2022) was born on Oct. 24, 1947 in Confluence. She was twice-wed. She first was joined in wedlock with Larry Spade Sr. ( ? - ? ). They were in Hopwood, PA in 1981 and the parents of three sons -- Erin Spade, Todd Spade and Larry Spade Jr. After Larry's death, she married a second time to Clyde McDowell and remained in Hopwood. Sadly, Louise died at home at the age of 74 on June 29, 2022.     

• Grandson Jay Edwin Clevenger has resided in Confluence.

Early Ursina, PA

Daughter Trellis June Clevenger (1922-2019) was born on Sept. 11, 1922. She married Edgar Robert Tressler (Sept. 17, 1916-1996), son of Chester and Rhuhama Catharine Barbara (Kreger) Tressler. Their union endured for 58 years. In the early years of their marriage, circa 1940, they lived with Trellis' widowed father in the Kingwood area. They bore one known son, Robert Edgar Tressler. In 1940, Edgar worked as a laborer on a local road project. Later, he made a career as a truck driver and was a member of the Teamsters Union Local 491 of Uniontown. They belonged to the Somerset Alliance Church and made their home over the years in Ursina. Edgar passed away in Somerset on Nov. 10, 1996. Funeral services were co-officiated by Rev. Vernon Witt and Rev. Ron Follett, with an obituary appearing in the Somerset Daily American. His remains are in repose in the Kingwood Odd Fellows Cemetery. Trellis lived for another 23 years in widowhood in Ursina and was considered "to many an extraordinary friend," said the Daily American. She endured the untimely death of her granddaughter Darla's husband, Gary Wevodau. At the age of 97, on Sept. 25, 2019, she died at home

• Grandson Robert Edgar Tressler (1939-2024) was born on Oct. 18, 1939 in Markleton, Somerset County. He was joined in wedlock with Margie ( ? - ? ) of Alum Bank, Bedford County. Their union endured the ebbs and flows of an extraordinary 65 years together. The couple produced two daughters, Darla S. "Dada" Wevodau and Amy Gonzalez. Robert was a longtime truck driver. Said the Somerset Daily American, "He loved the outdoors and was an avid hunter. He also enjoyed traveling and seeing the country." The family made their longtime home in Markleton. In 2014, they endured the death of their son-in-law Gary Wevodau in Lewisberry, PA. Sadly, Robert passed away at home at the age of 85 on Nov. 26, 2024. The remains were lowered into the sacred soil of the Kingwood IOOF Cemetery.

  Great-granddaughter Darla S. "Dada" Tressler entered into marriage with Gary Wevodau ( ? -2014). Sadly, Gary died at home in Lewisberry, PA at the age of 63 on Aug. 26, 2014, with an obituary published in the Harrisburg Patriot-News. She later was a companion of Hilbert Houseknecht.

  Great-granddaughter Amy Tressler tied the marital cord with Antonio Gonzales. 

~ Daughter Etta (Clevenger) Kreger ~

Old Bethel Church, Hexebarger - enlarge

Daughter Etta Clevenger  (1884-1946) was born on July 13, 1884. She spent her entire life in the Kingwood community.

She was wedded to Harry "Clark" Kreger (April 29, 1885-1961), son of William H. and Malinda (Schrock) Kreger and grandson of David and Lena Schrock.

The Clevenger and Kreger families were close, and Etta's sister Lola Pearl Clevenger was united in holy wedlock with Clark's brother William Wakefield Kreger.

Etta and Clark resided in Markleton, where for years they labored as farmers. They belonged to the Kingwood Church of God.

Their brood of offspring were Olive Kreger, Mrs. Ray Lape and Mrs. Willliam Brant.

When Clark's sister Carrie (Kreger) Kreger and mother both died in 1940, their obituaries were republished in the Younkin Family News Bulletin (Sept. 25, 1940 and June 30, 1941, respectively).

At the age of 68, Etta suffered a stroke and died after 10 days on March 26, 1946. Her funeral was conducted by Rev. J.I. Kalp, her former pastor. An obituary appeared in the Connellsville Daily Courier.

Clark outlived his wife by 15 years. He suffered a cerebral hemorrhage and was admitted to Somerset Community Hospital. After lingering for five weeks, he was swept away by death at the age of 75 on March 25, 1961. His remains were lowered under the sod in the Odd Fellows Cemetery in Kingwood.

Researcher Donna (Younkin) Logan believed that Etta also married Calvin Weyant and once wrote of the confusing trail of research she had encountered, "This family is all messed up."

~ Daughter Anna (Clevenger) Umble ~

Anna Umble - courtesy Linda Marker

Daughter Anna "Annie" Clevenger (1885-1917) was born on March 12, 1885.

At the age of 16, in 1911, she gave birth to a son fathered by her cousin, lumber mill laborer Milton D. Kreger (1884-1949), son of Edward and Susan M. (Hostetler) Kreger and grandson of John "Frederick" and Sarah (Younkin) Kreger.

The son was given the name "Scott C. Kreger."

Later, she entered into marriage with Grover Otto Umble (Nov. 16, 1885-1945), a native of Maryland, son of Andrew and Sara (Welsh) Umble. He was divorced from Minta Florence Liston (1887-1976).

They made their home in Upper Turkeyfoot.

Old Bethel Cemetery

Tragedy rocked this family in the winter of 1917, when an expectant Annie was in the midst of childbirth. Her system went into shock, and she and the infant died at the age of 30, on Feb. 13, 1917. H.P. Meyers of Confluence signed her death certificate. Burial for both, with the baby boy unnamed, was in the Old Bethel Church of God Cemetery in Hexebarger.

At her death, son Scott was taken in and raised by his widowed grandfather, Benjamin Franklin "Badger" Clevenger.   

Grover outlived his wife by 28 years and wed a second time to Annie's cousin Myrtle Johnson ( ? - ? ), daughter of George Washington and Margaret Ann "Maggie" (Younkin) Johnson of the family of William Harrison and Ida (Hyatt) Younkin. They dwelled in Ursina, and he was employed by the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad. See the Younkin biography for more on the couple.

In an interesting twist, Milton Kreger never married. He entered the Somerset County Home in 1936 and remained there for the final 13 years of his life. He died there on Oct. 10, 1949.

Annie's grave marker, seen here, was photographed during the Younkin Reunion cemetery tour in July 2016, with pink flowers planted at the site.

Son Scott C. Kreger Sr. (1911-2007) was born on July 5, 1911 in Upper Turkeyfoot. He was age six when his mother died, and he was taken into the home of his widowed grandfather Benjamin Franklin Clevenger where he was raised to adulthood. He married Elsie Ohler (1915-1964), daughter of Alex and Mattie Jane (Younkin) Ohler of the family of William "Henry" Harrison and Ida (Hyatt) Younkin. They lived in Markleton and produced a family of four offspring -- Etta Nicklow, Scott C. Kreger Jr., Jack R. Kreger and Richard C. Kreger. They were members of the Kingwood Church of God. Sadly, stricken with azotemia (kidney disease) and acute brain syndrone, Elsie died on Oct. 3, 1964 at the age of 49. On her grave marker were carved the words from the Lord's Prayer, "Thy will be done." Scott survived her by more than four decades. Scott died at the age of 95 in Somerset Hospital on April 27, 2007. Burial was in the Old Bethel Cemetery, with Rev. James Monticue and Rev. Paul Tobias officiating at the funeral. An obituary in the Somerset Daily American said that he was survived by seven grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren. They are buried together in the Old Bethel Church of God Cemetery.

• Granddaughter Etta Kreger wed Howard Nicklow, a cousin of the family of Freeman and Ellen "Nellie" (Firestone) Nicola. See the Nicola biography for more.

• Grandson Scott C. "Junior" Kreger Jr. (1936-2022) was born on Feb. 25, 1936 in Upper Turkeyfoot Township. When he was 27 years of age, on July 27, 1963, he was united in matrimony with Mary "Peggy" Tannehill ( ? -living). Their union endured for a remarkable 58½ years. The couple's only child was Brenda Yoder. The Kregers put down roots in Ursina. In young manhood, Scott was a construction laborer. He then went on to employment as a greenskeeper at the King's Mountain Golf Course and Middlecreek Golf Course. They were faithful attendees of the Kingwood Church of God. He enjoyed owning new automobiles and keeping them in immaculate condition, and also maintained a good looking lawn at home. Sadly, Scott passed away at the age of 86 on March 17, 2022. His pastor, Rev. James Monticue, led the funeral service, with an obituary published in the Somerset Daily American. The remains were lowered into eternal repose in Addison Cemetery.

 Great-granddaughter Brenda married Merv Yoder. They make a home in Bedford, PA.

• Grandson Jack R. Kreger dwelled in Markleton in 2007.

• Grandson Richard C. Kreger entered into marriage with Laberta. Circa 2007, they made a home in Markleton.

~ Son Benjamin Franklin "Frank" Clevenger Jr. ~

Somerset Daily American, 1959

Son Benjamin Franklin "Frank" Clevenger Jr. (1887-1959) was born on March 16, 1887.

He never married and spent his life as a farmer in the Markleton/Kingwood area.

Circa 1920, he lived at home with his widowed father and unmarried siblings.

As he aged, Franklin contracted cataracts of both eyes as well as endured hypertension and heart problems.

He was felled with a heart attack at home at the age of 71, on Feb. 26, 1959, and was dead within 10 minutes. Burial was in the IOOF Cemetery in Kingwood, with Rev. Kalp officiating. His obituary was printed in the Somerset Daily American.

~ Daughter Ida B. (Clevenger) Holliday ~

Confluence Christian Church

Daughter Ida B. Clevenger (1891-1978) was born on April 15, 1891 in Humbert, Somerset County.

On Dec. 10, 1910, in a ceremony performed locally, the 19-year-old Ida was united in holy matrimony with 22-year-old Charles "Scott" Holliday (1888-1978), son of Elijah J. and Mary (Gower) Holliday of Addison Township, Somerset County.

Their three children were James W. Holliday, Edison D. Holliday and Zella M. Wright.

The family lived in Confluence and Addison Township, and they belonged to the Confluence Christian Church. When the federal census enumeration was made in 1920, the Hollidays lived in Addison Township, with Scott earning a living as a custodian, known at that time as a "stationery engineer."

Scott changed occupations during the decade and by 1930 was employed as a laborer in a local garage. In 1959, when named in the newspaper obituary of Ida's brother Benjamin Franklin Jr., she and Scott made their home in Confluence.

Ida and Scott died within a month of each other in 1978. Scott passed first on March 2, 1978 at the age of 90, with Rev. Lgene Bonnell officiating at the funeral.

Ida was admitted to Somerset Community Hospital where she followed her spouse to the grave on April 1, 1978. They rest together in the Kingwood IOOF Cemetery.

Son James W. Holliday (1912- ? ) was born in about 1912 in Somerset County. Circa 1978, his home was in Connellsville.

Son Edison D. Holliday (1917- ? ) was born in about 1917 in Somerset County. He dwelled in rural Somerset in 1978.

Daughter Zella M. Holliday (1921- ? ) was born in about 1921. She married (?) Wright ( ? - ? ). They lived in Addison in the late 1970s.

~ Daughter Lola "Pearl" (Clevenger) Kreger ~

YFNB, June 1941 edition

Daughter Lola "Pearl" Clevenger (1894-1941) was born on Sept. 16, 1894 in Kingwood.

At the age of 26, unmarried, she lived at home with her widowed father and unmarried siblings.

She married William Wakefield Kreger (1884-1980), son of William H. and Malinda (Schrock) Kreger and grandson of David and Lena Schrock. (Showing how close the families were, Pearl's sister Etta Clevenger married William's brother Clark Kreger.)

Their home was in rural Markleton, possibly near Casselman.

The couple produced six children -- Harold Dalton Kreger, John Kreger, Dorothy Ziegenfuss, Anna Louise Kreger, Charles Kreger and Orville Kreger.

In March 1941, Pearl began to receive medical care for an abscess in her pelvis region as a side effect of influenza she had been suffering. She was admitted to Somerset Community Hospital, and a week later she died on April 10, 1941, at the age of 46. Funeral services were held in the Kreer home, officiated by Rev. J.L. Kalp of the Kingwood Church of God, and burial in the Kingwood Odd Fellows Cemetery.

Several months later, her obituary was reprinted in the Younkin Family News Bulletin (June 30, 1941).

William survived his wife by nearly four decades. He passed away at the age of 95 on Jan. 29, 1980, with burial in the Kingwood Odd Fellows Cemetery and an obituary appearing in the Meyersdale Republic.

Son Harold Dalton Kreger married a double cousin, Gladys Gary of the family of Minnie Edna (Miner) Gary. View their bio for more details.

Son John William Kreger (1923-2022) was born on July 27, 1923. During World War II, he was drafted into the U.S. Army. Upon the close of the war, he is said to returned home via a combination of a train ride and hitchhiking. John was joined in matrimony with a distant cousin, Maude Colflesh (Jan. 10, 1927), daughter of John Franklin and Sarah Jane (Younkin) Colfelsh of the family of Rev. Herman and Susanna (Faidley) Younkin. The couple's two sons were were John William Kreger Jr. and Barry Ray Kreger. Sadness blanketed the family at the death of their infant son Barry. The Kregers spent their lives as farmers. John once was described as "a man satisfied with his own square inch. A farmer through and through, he still baled hay and went to the barn in his nineties." The pair were longtime members of the New Centerville and Rural Volunteer Fire Company, volunteering for more than six decades with its annual Farmers and Thresherman's Jubilee. They also operated a hamburger stand for years at the annual Kingwood Picnic. Sadly, Maude died on June 9, 2006 at the Johnstown Memorial Medical Center, age 79. Rev. James Monticue officiated at her funeral, followed by interment in the Kingwood IOOF Cemetery. ? - ? ). Toward the end, he went to reside in The Patriot in Somerset. He surrendered to the angels at age 98 on June 12, 2022. Funeral services again were led by Rev. Monticue, with burial following in the Odd Fellows Cemetery. An obituary appeared in the Somerset Daily American. 

• Grandson John William Kreger Jr. wed Rita G. ( ? - ? ). Together, they bore a family of two -- Betsy Jo Kreger and Willliam J. Kreger. 

Son Charles W. Kreger married Coral Lee (?). They dwelled in Markleton.

Daughter Anna L. Kreger (1927-2017) was born on Nov. 1, 2917 in Kingwood. She never married and made her home in Markleton. The Somerset Daily American once noted that she was a licensed practical nurse and longtime volunteer at the New Centerville Farmer’s and Thresherman’s Jubilee and the Kingwood Picnic. She died in Somerset Hospital on Sept. 18, 2017 at the age of 89. Rev. James Monticue officiated at her funeral service, with burial in the Kingwood IOOF Cemetery.

Daughter Dorothy Kreger ( ? -2022) was born on (?). In 1962, she entered into marriage with Floyd Ziegenfuss ( ? - ? ). They put down roots in Painted Post near Corning, NY and remained there for 35 years. The only child born to this union was Paula Whaley. Dorothy was known for her flowers, gardens and pumpkin pies. By 2017, her home was in Illinois. She passed away at the age of 96 on Jan. 27, 2022. The remains were interred in Bath (NY) National Cemetery following funeral services led by Rev. Gary McCaslin. The Corning Leader published an obituary.

• Granddaughter Paula Ziegenfuss married Ted Whaley. Four children born to the couple are Lauren Whaley, Hannah Whaley, Ryan Whaley and Michael Whaley.

Son Orville K."Tub" Kreger married Ella Enos. They produced a son, Thomas Kreger. Later, he was a companion of Ellen Hunt.

• Grandson Thomas Kreger ( ? - ? )