John M. "Jack" Stilson

John M. Stilson    “beloved husband, father, grandfather and father-in-law”

SHARON CENTER, PA---John M. “Jack” Stilson, 75, of Sharon Center, passed away surrounded by his loving family on Wednesday, April 27, 2016 in the Olean General Hospital, Olean, NY, after a long illness.
     Born December 6, 1940 in Olean, NY, he was a son of Richard “Paul” and Mary Hurd Stilson.  On July 22, 1961 in Chrystal, he married Frances K. “Fran” Hyde, who survives.
     John was a graduate of Coudersport High School, Class of 1959.  He attended Lock Haven State College, Williamsport Technical Institute and Breeden School of Welding in Genesee.
     In 1964 he was hired by Air-Preheater in Wellsville, NY, first being employed as a welder, later becoming head inspector of the Welding department.  He retired in 2003.  He was also a Sharon Township supervisor from January 1980 until December 20, 2015.  While employed at Air-Preheater, John was trained in non-destructive testing at Eastman-Kodak in Rochester, NY.
     John was a member and usher at the Coudersport Gospel Tabernacle Church where he was lovingly known as “the greeter”.  He was a member of the Potter County Association of Township Officials, serving as president from 1994 to 1996.  He had also served on the Potter Planning Commission.  He was a mentor to many, including teaching the art of welding and helping them obtain employment in that trade.  He was a life member of the Oswayo Valley Rod and Gun Club in Millport.  He loved to hunt and fish, and also loved to shoot trap with his grandson.  His greatest love was his Lord and his family.
     Surviving besides his wife of 54 years are three children, Tammy A. (Mark) Perkins of New Wilmington, Chris P. (Dawn) Stilson of Bolivar, NY, and Phil E. (Lisa) Stilson of Millport; six grandchildren, DaLacy Watson, Jeremy Perkins, Andrew Perkins, Kristen Stilson, Trevor Stilson, and Lexie Stilson; two great-grandchildren, Lillian Kreider and Alex Kreider; two step-great-grandchildren, Eli Watson and Zack Watson; a brother, Walter (Susan) Stilson of Florida; a sister, Marilyn (Tom) Gorrell of Smethport; and several nieces and nephews.
     John was predeceased by his parents.
     Friends may call from 10 a.m. to 12 noon on Saturday, April 30, 2016 at the Coudersport Gospel Tabernacle, where funeral services will follow at noon with the Rev. Dr. David Minor, pastor, and the Rev. Fred Kemp, pastor of Potter County Baptist Church, officiating.  Burial will be in Chrystal Cemetery.
     Flowers are gratefully declined and will be provided by the family.  Memorials in John’s name may be made to the Oswayo Valley Rod and Gun Club, PO Box 186, Shinglehouse, PA 16748.
     John’s family has entrusted his care to the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse, PA.