Charles Fickinger

Long-time Coudersport Area High School science teacher and Masonic officer Charles F. Fickinger Jr. died Thursday, Aug. 16, 2007, at his home. He was 78.

Born on Oct. 28, 1928 in Ford City, he was the son of Charles F. Fickinger Sr., and Ellen Toward Fickinger. On June 16, 1956 in Coudersport, he married Jane R. Parisella, who died on Aug. 12, 2004.

Mr. Fickinger was a graduate of Coudersport High School and Mansfield State Teachers College. He was a veteran of the Korean War, having served with the U.S. Army.

He was known in the classroom for his good humor and camaraderie with his students, which fostered an effective learning environment.

Mr. Fickinger was a member of Christ Episcopal Church and the National Rifle Association. He was a 50-year member of Eulalia Lodge 342 F&AM, Port Allegany Arch Chapter, Coudersport Council No. 63, Potter Commandery No. 69 Knights Templar and the Valley of Coudersport. He joined the Valley of Coudersport in June 1955 and was very active in the degree work and the Passion Play. On Aug. 31, 1993 he received the Masonic organization's coveted 33rd Degree in Boston, Mass.

Surviving are two daughters, Mary Ellen (Michael) Pepper and Martha Jane Williams, both of Coudersport; a son, James Frederick of Corry; 11 grandchildren; two brothers, George (Cheryl) Grabe of Plainfield, N.H., and William T. Grabe of Coudersport, and several nieces.

He was preceded in death by his parents, wife and one brother, Thomas E. Fickinger.

Friends were received at the Fickinger Funeral Home of Coudersport, where a Masonic service was held with Rev. Elaine Silverstrim and the Rev. David Minor Sr. officiating. Burial was in Woodland Cemetery at Five Corners, where military rites were accorded by the members of the Potter County Honor Guard.

Memorial donations may be made to the Coudersport Public Library or to the Gospel Tabernacle Romanian Fund.