Howard F. Gillen

Howard F. Gillen, 100, of 111 Frey Road, Kersey, passed away peacefully Tuesday, January 13, 2026.

He was born May 29, 1925, in St. Marys, son of the late Morris Gillen and Sadie Rigard Fosberg.  He was a lifelong resident of the area and a proud veteran of the United States Army, serving his country from 1945 to 1947.  Howard was formerly employed at Stackpole Carbon Company, where he retired after forty-four years with the company.

On March 31, 1946, in St. Boniface Church, Howard married the late Gladys Frey, who preceded him in death on October 19, 2006.

Howard is survived by his daughter, Joan Herbstritt (Donnie) of Kersey; son, David Gillen (Diane) of Kersey; eight grandchildren: Shawn Gillen (Julie), Brian Gillen (Jena), Dawn Siddens (Bruce), Nichole Mattivi, Jacinda Hoffman (Dave), Monica Pasquinelli-Cohen (Ian), Jesse Herbstritt (Alicia) and Bridget Straub-Rupp (Erik); eighteen great-grandchildren: Blake, Carter, Simone, Bailey, Trevor, Parker, Ella, Isabella, Claudia, Darby, Braden, Bryce, Drew, Brynn, Gavin, Grace, Anna, and Cole; two step-great-grandchildren: Trenten and Carsen; and two great-great-grandchildren: Makenzie and Enzo.

In addition to his wife and parents, Howard was preceded in death by his step-father, Lowell Fosberg; and his siblings Helen Bauer and Paul Gillen.

Howard leaves behind a legacy of faith, love, and craftsmanship.  A devoted family man, he believed that faith and family were life’s greatest blessings, and he lived each day guided by those values.  He had a deep appreciation for the outdoors and found joy in the simple, meaningful moments-making airplanes out of wood, feeling the warmth of the sun, and watching birds in quiet reflection.  His steady presence, gentle wisdom, and unwavering faith left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held in St. Boniface Church, 355 Main Street, Kersey, PA 15846, Monday, January 19, 2026 at 10:00AM with Rev. Christopher Beran, Pastor, celebrating.  Full military honors will be accorded by the Fox Township Servicemen’s Burial Detail.  Burial will follow in the St. Boniface Cemetery.

A visitation will be held in the St. Boniface Gathering Space, Monday, January 19, 2026 from 9:00AM until the time of Mass.

Memorial donations, if desired, may be made to St. Boniface Church, 355 Main Street, Kersey, PA 15846.