Bishop Guilfoyle High School Class of 1978

😁Our fellow classmates from St. Rose of Lima are having their 50th Reunion on Thursday, September 19th and they've decided to keep the party going. So... everyone is invited to join them on Friday the 20th. The venue is the Unter Uns. The time is 6-10'sh but could go as late as midnight. It will be a cash bar and a cash kitchen. Spread the word.

This is happening way too often now ... our classmate Pete Aigner passed away on Tuesday, September 3rd. His viewing and service will be held this Saturday 9/7 at Stevens in Altoona. As I know you will, please keep him and his family in your prayers.

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Peter Morgan Aigner, 64, Duncansville, passed away Tuesday at his residence. He was born in Altoona, the son of the late Dr. Francis J. Aigner, DDS and Eileen (Sheedy) Aigner.

Peter is survived by two brothers: Patrick G. Aigner (Lauren) and Michael F. Aigner (Michelle); five sisters: Paula M. Fochler (Paul), Mary C. Aigner (Hue Freeman), Ann E. Wilson (Richard), Kathleen A. Oswald (Ozzie) and Elizabeth A. Scott (Karl); his uncle and aunt, Dr. William Aigner and wife Deborah; seventeen nieces and nephews: Maraya Lane, Sara Leon-Guerrero, Morgan Fochler, Mary Kate Fochler, Christian Fochler, Jason Aigner, Andrew Wilson, Alec Wilson, A.J. Wilson, Michael Oswald, Matthew Oswald, Devin Aigner, Luke Aigner, Jonas Aigner, Jack Aigner, Ryan Scott and Natalie Scott; two great-nieces: Mary Evelyn Lane, Eloise Aigner and a great-nephew, Max Lane; many cousins, extended family and close friends Fred and Brenda Hainley.

He was preceded in death by his nephew, Andrew Oswald.

Peter was a 1978 graduate of Bishop Guilfoyle High School and went on to form Aigner Contracting, where he used his talents in carpentry.

Peter was a member of the Conservation of the Chesapeake Bay. An avid fisherman, he enjoyed fishing trips to Maine and Indian River. Peter loved animals, observing and feeding wildlife, and especially spending time with his dog, Jackson. He was a loyal fan of the Pittsburgh Steelers and Notre Dame.

Friends will be received from 10 am-noon on Saturday, September 7, 2024 at The Stevens Mortuary, Inc., 1421 8thAvenue, Altoona, PA 16602, where a funeral service will immediately follow in the Stevens Memorial Chapel with Fr. Alan Thomas. Committal will be held at St. Johns Cemetery, Altoona.

The family requests contributions be made in Peter’s memory to: Doberman Pincher Rescue of PA, Inc., 1943 West Cedar St., Allentown, PA 18104.

Condolences may be made at www.stevensfamilyfuneralhomes.com or Stevens Family Funeral Homes Facebook.

https://stevensmortuary.stevensfamilyfuneralhomes.com/altoona-pa-obituaries/peter-morgan-aigner/?fbclid=IwY2xjawFG7gxleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHU_VxNmgRQ4330XNJYyuw2kJ2K9nFLU4vFToFwnLuWv5HkR5O5OhVGnR7g_aem_NH1Uf3RSDRCziiPqD_8Nfg

Becky²... both still looking like teenagers

Congratulations and best wishes to Becky Abram and John Strobert. Several of us had the pleasure of congregating there one Saturday evening in May when Trish Madden was in town. We had a great time. Go check it out! It's worth the short drive up the mountain.

It is with a heavy heart that we share the news of our classmate Craig Rabits' passing. May he rest in peace... may his family be consoled... and may all those who knew him be comforted in knowing that we will meet again.

Craig S. Rabits
December 8, 1959-June 23, 2024

Craig S. Rabits, 64, Altoona, passed away Sunday morning at UPMC Altoona. He was born in Altoona, the son of Virginia “Ginny” (Cassarly) Rabits and the late, Frank W. Rabits.
He is survived by his mother of State College; two sons: Patrick Rabits of Altoona and Phillip Rabits of St. College; a brother, Christopher Rabits of Altoona and a sister, Jennifer Rabits of State College.
Craig was preceded in death by two brothers: Stephen and Patrick Rabits.
He was a graduate of Bishop Guilfoyle High School and had retired as a bus driver from Fullington Bus Company. Craig had previously worked as a mechanic in the family businesses for many years: Altoona Exxon, Rabits Auto Center, Ryder Truck Rental and Budget Truck Rental.
He enjoyed going out with friends to different events, spending time with his dad and his two sons when he had the opportunity. Craig enjoyed hanging around the house, doing house projects and relaxing.
At the request of the deceased there will be no visitation or services.
Arrangements are provided by The Stevens Mortuary, Inc., 1421 8th Avenue, Altoona, PA 16602.
Condolences may be made at www.stevensfamilyfuneralhomes.com or Stevens Family Funeral Homes Facebook.

Home | Funeral Services | Altoona PA - Stevens Family Funeral Homes For 130+ years, Stevens Family Funeral Homes has provided meaningful funeral services, guidance, & support for the families of Altoona.

Mr. Guy Little passed away on May 14th. Our deepest sympathies go out to his entire family which includes Bill Ceglar whose sister was once married to Guy. Please keep Mr. Little and the whole family in your prayers. Bill has asked that anyone who would like to share a memory (and he assures me it can be ANY memory) to please write it in a comment here so that it can be given to Guy's children.

Calling all Dutchmen....

The St. Mary's Class of 1974 will be holding a 50th reunion on Saturday, September 7th. It should be a good time. Even more fun will be getting together on Friday, May 17th at the Unter Uns to plan for that 50th reunion. Spread the word.... anyone who attended SMS with us... even if you left after 6th grade... all are welcome.

WHAT: SMS Class of 1974 50th planning meeting
WHEN: Friday, May 17th at 6:00 pm
WHERE: Unter Uns

Cash bar will be available but the kitchen won't be open. We'll be bringing in pizza so RSVP to Regina so we know how much pizza to get.

email: [email protected]

p.s., I just sent an email blast out via our BGHS1978.rocks platform. If you don't get it in the next 24 hours check your SPAM folder.

The BG Class of 1978 scholarship was created after our 50th Birthday Bash to encourage families with graduating 8th graders to continue with their children’s catholic school education at Bishop Guilfoyle. St. Pat’s is the only remaining parochial school which goes to the eighth grade. Most of the graduates from St. Pat’s choose not to attend BG.

The gradual restructuring of the area grade schools and changes at the Pleasant Valley building have now necessitated a review of our scholarship’s mission and the need to make decisions of how best to implement that mission going forward.

The purpose of this post is to remind our fellow classmates that we have a scholarship… explain that its mission and implementation is now outdated… and finally to invite any of our fellow classmates to learn more about and/or become involved in the restructuring of our scholarship.

Since our 50th Birthday Bash in 2010 our class has awarded $6800 in scholarships to eleven eighth graders attending BG in the Fall as entering freshmen. This year’s recipient will receive over $800 to apply towards his/her ninth grade tuition in the 2024-25 school year.

If you are interested in learning more about our Class of 1978 Scholarship or would like to help in reshaping the wording of our scholarship to take into account the changes to the catholic school landscape in the Altoona area please comment below.

Have an awesome Spring!
Regina Bettwy Gates

Our deepest condolences to Anne Marie Kutruff on the recent passing of her mother to her eternal rest. Our prayers are with you at this time.

Regina M. (Madigan) Kutruff Regina M. (Madigan) Kutruff, 86, Altoona, passed away unexpectedly Saturday at UPMC Altoona, surrounded by her family. She was born in Amsbry, the eldest of 14 children to the late Thomas and Marie (Beiswenger) Madigan. Her loving husband, Herbert J. Kutruff, preceded her in death. They married at S...

John Gates' mom, my mother-in-law, passed away peacefully yesterday afternoon at age 94. She was 'Mrs. Gates' long before I ever knew John. It has been an honor to follow in her footsteps.

Nancy Hesser (Gates) Greenleaf obituary Nancy Hesser (Gates) Greenleaf November 27, 1929 –January 25, 2024 Nancy Hesser (Gates) Greenleaf, 94, of Hollidaysburg, formerly of State College and Altoona, passed away Thursday at Garvey Manor. She was born in Altoona, daughter of the late Lawrence and Isabelle (Luther) Hesser. She married Jam...

St. Mary's First Communion 1968... notice anything unusual about this First Communion class?

For any of you who never knew why Pickle Hill was called Pickle Hill (like me)... apparently this was a thing a long time before we were even born. Photo credit to someone on the 'You Know You're from Altoona If...' page but I can't find the original post. Why did I put this in this album? If you were ever at Pickle Hill, you'll know.

Please keep the soul of Pete Naputano (BG Class of 1968) in your prayers. Pete passed away Sunday at Garvey Manor. I enjoyed meeting and talking with him there. Pete played football at BG and went on to play at Marshall University. On November 14, 1970 he was injured and therefore wasn't on the team plane that crashed killing all on board. The movie starring Matthew McConaughey "We Are Marshall" told the story of the aftermath of that crash. RIP Pete

Peter J. Naputano Peter J. Naputano, 73, of Hollidaysburg, passed away Sunday at Garvey Manor Nursing Home, Hollidaysburg, after an extended illness. He was born in Bridgeport, Conn., son of the late Francis and Lillian (Leonard) Naputano. Surviving are brothers, Francis (Linda) Naputano and Mark Naputano; a nephew;....

Two days before Christmas Luann Spinner's 98 year old mother left her loved ones on earth to join her loved ones in heaven. A bittersweet holiday for those she left behind but what a glorious reunion for her. Our deepest sympathies to Luann and her whole family.

Aleine D. Spinner Aleine D. Spinner, 98, of Garvey Manor, passed away on Saturday at the Manor. She was the daughter of the late Emil and Louisa (List) Maillard. She married Steve Spinner on July 2, 1955, at St. Mary Catholic Church, Altoona. He passed away on Jan. 26, 2011. She is survived by a son, Stephen Spinner....

Our deepest sympathies to Tony and Sue Iachini on the recent passing of their younger brother, Ray. May the angels lead him into paradise and may he rest in peace.

Raymund G. Iachini Raymund G. Iachini, 61, Altoona, passed away Saturday at Maple Heights Health and Rehabilitation Center in Ebensburg. He was born in Altoona, son of the late Alfred D. and Katherine R. (McCulloch) Iachini. He is survived by three children: Chad Iachini, Monica Mock (Iachini) and Zachary Iachini; thr...

Help Tom's family posthumously help Tom meet his goal...

Tom Kristofco 100,000 Miles in 25 Years Memorial, organized by Samuel Haddad To everyone that knew Tom, you all knew he loved riding his bike. In … Samuel Haddad needs your support for Tom Kristofco 100,000 Miles in 25 Years Memorial

Tomorrow another member of the greatest generation will be lain to rest. Diane Ratchford's mother passed away in October and will be interred next to her husband in Gallitzen. I'm sorry, Diane, that this is so late in being posted but know that your mom, you, and your whole family will be in our thoughts and prayers.

https://www.blileys.com/obituaries/Shirley-Ann-Ratchford?obId=29465035&fbclid=IwAR20mhTsOzLSLS671-eWtnlJeEZa8INrZNGeQdTeS2NCCViGjpGQjAOugPM #/obituaryInfo

Obituary information for Shirley Ann Ratchford View Shirley Ann Ratchford's obituary, contribute to their memorial, see their funeral service details, and more.

This is Regina (which you probably already know... it's always me). This time I am asking for your prayers for the eternal repose of my own mother. She passed from this life peacefully at Garvey Manor on Saturday. And, of course, if you want to throw in any prayers for me and my family they will be greatly appreciated as well. For those of you who still have either your mom or dad or both... hug them tight... tell them you love them... thank them for sending you to BG. I'm officially an orphan now, but I still have John's mom at Garvey so I still will have a reason to get to Altoona every now and then!

Theresa M. Bettwy obituary Theresa M. Bettwy May 31, 1926 – October 28, 2023 Theresa M. Bettwy, 97, Garvey Manor, Hollidaysburg, formerly of Lakemont, passed away Saturday at the Manor. She was born in Altoona, daughter of the late Justin and Paulina (Vorndran) Kessler. She married Vincent J. Bettwy, Sr. on May 17, 1952 at ...

Please see attached obit for Diane Ronan's brother Michael. May he rest in peace and may Diane know the comfort and peace from all of us thinking of her and praying for her and her family at this time.

Michael J. Ronan Jr. Michael J. Ronan Jr., 72, Altoona, passed away Tuesday at UPMC Altoona after an extended illness. He was born in Baltimore, Md., son of the late Michael J. and Anna I. (Powell) Ronan Sr. Michael married Rosanne M. Ebersole on June 5, 1971, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church. Surviving is his loving wif...

Our deepest sympathies to Karen Burchfield on the passing of her mother... may she rest in Christ's peace. May the thoughts and prayers of the entire class bring comfort to Karen and her family.

Dolores M. ‘Dee’ Burchfield Dolores M. “Dee” Burchfield, 87, of Altoona, passed away Monday. She was born a first generation Italian American daughter of the late Gabriel and Columba (DiClemente) Diantoniis. Surviving are daughters, Deborah (Ed) Ergler and Karen (Ron) George; sons: Robert Jr., Kevin (Sue), Stephen and Mark...

Sacred Heart... 8th grade
Seated: Eydie Cardone, Kayla Martin, Francis (Pummy) Pirozolla, Dan Ardizone, Frank Boston?, Bill Mitchell, Maureen McGough, Becky Condrin
Standing Row 1: Beth Soldner, Mary Naperkoski, Marion DeStefano, Tony Scaglione, Stephanie Conlon, Michelle Runk, Bill Stahl, Vicky Lynam, Mr. Bussman
Standing Row 2: Christine Marletti, Brian Prendergast, Diane Jones, Joan Farrell, Karen Grey, Debbie Kocoloski, Lou Perino, Ann Keagy
Standing Last Row: Joel Caracciolo, Maria Morina, Barb Muri, Patty Snyder, Nancy Raia, Tim Sheehan, Kevin Kelleher

As we continue to mourn the unexpected passing of Tom Kristofco and we keep the whole Kristofco and Horell families in our prayers, let us also remember and pray for our classmates Rhonda Walker who just lost her mother ... Jean Schachtner who lost her brother... and Joann Fenello whose mother just recently passed as well. May they and all the souls of the faithful departed through the mercy of God rest in peace. Obits are linked below:

https://www.altoonamirror.com/obituaries/2023/10/patricia-l-young/

https://www.altoonamirror.com/obituaries/2023/09/frank-robert-schachtner/

https://www.altoonamirror.com/obituaries/2023/09/mary-j-fenello/

Patricia L. Young Patricia L. Young, 87, of Altoona, passed away Friday at home. She was born in Altoona, daughter of the late Elizabeth Weimert. Surviving are daughters: Susan Wagner (Bill) of Hollidaysburg, Linda Fisher (Charlie), and Rhonda Walker, both of Altoona; and their father, James Walker (Lois); and many l...

UPDATE: Looks like Tom's funeral mass will be livestreamed from St. Michael the Archangel catholic church (Hollidaysburg, PA) on Tuesday morning at 10am. It will be livestreamed on YouTube. If the following link doesn't work, just go to YouTube... search on St. Michael the Archangel Hollidaysburg PA and scroll down until you see it.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FIYF7IwHL0g

Click on this link to be taken to Tom's obit on the Steven's Mortuary website:

https://stevensmortuary.stevensfamilyfuneralhomes.com/altoona-pa-obituaries/thomas-john-kristofco/

ORIGINAL POST:

Sorry, but I have more sad news to pass along. TK (i.e., Tom Kristofco) passed away the day before yesterday, September 27th, after suffering a brain aneuryism on Monday morning. You probably remember that Tom was married to Janet Horell who was his high school sweetheart. He and Janet have two very lovely grown daughters, Lauren and Allie.

Friends will be received from 4 to 8 pm on Monday, October 2nd at The Stevens Mortuary in Altoona.. The address there is 1421 Eighth Ave. A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10am on Tuesday, Oct. 3rd at St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church in Hollidaysburg.

The family has directed that donations in his honor be sent to the Dorothy Day Outreach Center, Box 600, Loretto, PA 15940 or to The Thomas J. Kristofco Memorial Scholarship at BG. As for the latter, checks can be made to Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School. Reference the Thomas Kristofco scholarship. The address is 2400 Pleasant Valley Blvd, Altoona, PA 16602 You can also donate through Paypal at BG's website please reference Tom's scholarship.

Our deepest sympathies to Janel Snyder on the loss of her father. Know that our prayers are with you and your whole family.

Donald E. Snyder Donald E. Snyder, 90, Vero Beach, Fla., formerly of Altoona, passed away unexpectedly Wednesday, Aug. 2, 2023. He was born in Huntingdon, son of the late Otto and Marie (Skelley) Snyder. Donald was happily married to Doris J. Steckroth on July 26, 1958. She preceded him in death on Aug. 13, 2019. Su...

With our deepest sympathies, Rudy... may your mom rest in peace.

Carolyn June Vorndran obituary Carolyn June Vorndran Oct. 28, 1937-July 5, 2023 Carolyn June Vorndran, 85, St. Petersburg, FL, formerly of Altoona, passed away Wednesday at the home of her son in Altoona. She was born in Ravenna, Ohio, the daughter of the late Kenneth Charles and Rosetta (Ferris) Harr. Carolyn is survived by her....

Oh, Kathy (Brunnhuber).... our deepest sympathies on the loss of your mom. May the angels lead her into paradise and may she rest in eternal peace.

Obituary for Anna (Andros) Brunnhuber | Sorge Funeral Home and Crematory Inc. Share memories & support the family

Hugs and prayers, Beth Soldner. May your mom rest in peace.

Ann V. Soldner Ann V. Soldner, 87, Altoona, passed away Tuesday at UPMC Altoona after a brief illness. She was born in Altoona, daughter of the late Andrew and Ruth (McCulloch) Schreiber. On Sept. 8, 1956, she married John E. Soldner at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Altoona. Surviving are her husband; four childre...

Our deepest sympathies to Denny Yahner on passing of his sweet mother, Minnie. May she rest in peace.

Minnie (Faris) ‘Tita’ Yahner

Feb. 12, 1926 – April 7, 2023


Mrs. Minnie (Faris) “Tita” Yahner, 97, of Purcellville, Va., formerly of Altoona, died Friday at her residence after an extended illness. She was born in Altoona, daughter of the late George and Mary (Batrus) Faris. She married Richard J. “Dick” Yahner on June 30, 1956, at the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament, Altoona. He preceded her in death on Oct. 15, 2002.

Minnie is survived by seven children: Jimmie (Debbie) George of Culpepper, Va., Jerry (Nancy) Yahner of Purcellville, Va., Denny (Melissa) Yahner of Altoona, Kevin (Donna) Yahner of Vienna, Va., Mary (Kirk) Mainline of Purcellville, Va., Annette (Howard) Holt of Harpers Ferry, Va., and Barbara (Stephen) Ricks of Leesburg, Va.; 14 grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by eight siblings: Alex Faris, Joe Faris, Jimmie Faris, George Faris, Sarah Steele, Helen Steele, Betty Bagwell and Dorothy Diaz.

She retired as a waitress, with over 50 years of service.

She was a member of the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament, Altoona.

Minnie was a 1943 graduate of Altoona High School. She enjoyed spending time with her children and grandchildren, playing Skipbo, sewing, crocheting, knitting, cooking and breakfast with her friends.

Friends will be received from 4 to 8 p.m. Friday, April 14, 2023, at Jones Funeral Home, Altoona, where a Vigil for the Deceased will be held during the visitation.

A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Saturday, April 15, 2023, at the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament, Altoona, with Msgr. Stanley B. Carson, Celebrant.

Committal rites will be held at Calvary Cemetery, Altoona.

In memory of Minnie, please make contributions to Blue Ridge Hospice, 333 W. Cork St., Unit 405, Wi******er, VA 22601, or The Carver Senior Center, County of Loudoun, 200 E. Wille Palmer Way, Purcellville, VA 20132.

Please see below the post on how you can help John Kasun's family during this very sad and difficult time.