William E. Davern

William E. Davern, 85, of 1089 Plateau Dr. Meadville, passed away Wednesday, February 24th, 2010 at Wesbury United Methodist Community.
William was born in Meadville, on January 3, 1925, a son of the late Vincent J. Davern and Margaret A. (Pieffley) Davern.
On Nov. 27, 1948 William married Betty J. Walls; she survives.
He was a member of St. Brigid Roman Catholic Church, Meadville.
William retired from the former Conrail Railroad after 13 years of service where he worked in the yards as a switchman. He previously had been employed by the former Greens Pharmacy for 25 years. Entering the US Navy on May 12, 1943 William served his country during WW II as a Pharmacists Mate Third Class. He was a member of the 5th Medical Battalion, 4th Marine Division which was involved in the 3rd wave of marines storming Iwo Jima. He was awarded the Pacific Theater Ribbon with one star, American Theater Ribbon and Victory Medal. William was honorably discharged on April 7, 1946. Following his discharge he graduated from Meadville High School in 1946. In his earlier years he attended St. Brigid Catholic School. A member of VFW Post #2006 William also enjoyed hunting, basketball and football. He had a great passion for golfing and enjoyed his Wednesday group which golfed at the former Park Golf Course. His greatest love was for his family, especially his grandchildren.
In addition to his wife Betty of 61 years, William is survived by two sons Larry V. Davern and his wife Cheryl of Meadville, Jeffrey J. Davern and his companion Debi Welch of Erie, three grandchildren Jillian, Joshua and Jacob Davern, two sisters Marie C. Smith, Frances Williams both of Meadville, a daughter in law Nancy Davern of Erie, Debis children Nicole and Gary Welch, many nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents William was preceded in death by four brothers James, Jack, Paul and Joseph Davern.
Family and friends are invited to call on Friday from 2-4 and 7-9 at Stephen P. Mizner Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc., 404 Chestnut St., Meadville, PA 16335 where a scripture service will be conducted at 3:30.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Brigid Roman Catholic Church, Meadville, at 10:00 AM on Saturday, February 27th, 2010 with Rev. Rocco Tito officiating.
Interment with full military honors by VFW Post #2006 will take place in St. Brigid Cemetery, West Mead Twp.
Memorial Contributions may be made to St. Brigid Roman Catholic Church, 383 Arch St., Meadville, PA 16335 or a charity of the donors choice.
Share your condolences at miznerfuneralhome@zoominternet.net