John "Mingo" Walter Urchuck

John “Mingo” Walter Urchuck was born in Punxsutawney on April 24, 1952, to Elmer Anderson, his lifelong role model and guiding influence, and his mother Florence Bennard.  Mingo lived a life defined by heart, humor, and humanity, qualities that resonated through every person he touched and every memory he left behind.

A gregarious soul with a magnetic spirit, Mingo had a rare gift for making everyone feel like family. Whether reconnecting with an old friend or striking up a conversation with a complete stranger, he had a way of making people feel seen and valued. His joy was infectious, his kindness effortless, and his presence unforgettable. To know Mingo was to love him.

Mingo met the love of his life, Rebecca “Becky” Setree, at church in Rossiter. Mingo had noticed the redhead long before fate placed them side-by-side at an Easter egg hunt. When Becky reached for an egg, Mingo playfully snatched it first. From that moment on, they were chasing each other in love and laughter for the next 52 years.

Shortly after being drafted into the Army near the end of the Vietnam War, Mingo married Becky and was stationed in Germany, where he continued to play and perfect his baseball skills; a passion he carried with him throughout his life, including his years playing for the Rossiter Miners.

Mingo cherished life’s simple pleasures: the sound of birds greeting the morning, waves crashing against the shore, or the quiet majesty of a scenic mountain view. Whether he was enjoying solitude in his beloved Rossiter, Pennsylvania, or adventuring out West on hunting trips to Colorado, Mingo found beauty everywhere. He often sent morning photos to his daughters, Andra and Jamie, capturing peaceful countryside scenes, his way of inviting them to share in his deep appreciation for nature’s stillness and wonder.

Mingo had a playful streak, particularly when it came to one of his favorite daily rituals: picking the daily lottery number. Mingo took the game seriously—and with uncanny luck—making it a fun and spirited tradition that added an extra spark to everyday life.

Some of Mingo’s happiest moments were spent riding his side-by-side through “God’s Country,” laughing with friends at camp, or playing golf, especially relishing his undefeated streak against his sons-in-law, a badge of pride he wore with a smile.

Above all else, Mingo’s greatest treasures were his family, his daughters and especially his grandchildren. Mingo was the very best “Papa,” known for his warm bear hugs, big heart, and unwavering love. He led his family by example, encouraging his daughters to live with integrity, gratitude, and purpose.

Mingo’s faith was the cornerstone of his life. He loved the Lord and longed for his children and grandchildren to know Him too. His favorite scripture was Romans 10:9:

“If you confess with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.”

Mingo’s light continues to shine in the memories he gifted us, the joy he spread so effortlessly, and the love he gave so freely. He will be deeply missed but never forgotten. May we all strive to radiate the same warmth, laughter, and genuine spirit that Mingo shared with the world.

Mingo was preceded in death by his parents, Elmer Anderson and Florence Bennard; Father-in-law William Setree, Mother-in-law Elaine Setree, Sisters-in-law Sandra Setree and Mannette Setree, Cousin and “brother” Chester Anderson. Siblings: Charles, Connie, and Dorothy.

Mingo is survived by his beloved wife, Rebecca “Becky” Urchuck; his daughters, Jamie (Adam) Reddinger and Andra (Christopher) Titus; and his adored granddaughters, Madalyn Reddinger, Delaney Reddinger, and Sofia Titus.

Sibling Ron Urchuck (Vicki), and siblings by marriage, Joan Setree Kemerer (Don), Barbara McKeown (Gary), William G. Setree Jr., Janeen Love (Dave), Scott Setree, and sister-in-law Karen Setree. 

His nieces and nephews include Billy King (Cali), Melissa Butler, Ryan McKeown (Nikki), Mark Love (Timberly), Mike Love (Becky), Andrew Love, Matt Love (Ellie), Cody Setree, Christopher Setree, Jennifer Setree, Kera Koziara (Kurtis), Craig Setree and Hollyann Setree.

Great-nieces and great-nephews are Bailey Butler, Brady Butler, Jaxon Love, Jase Love, Greyson Love, Marlee Love, Kullen Koziara, Koda Koziara, and Kincaid Koziara. 

Friends will be received from 1 -3 p.m. Wednesday, July 16, 2025, at New Beginnings Church in Walston.  A funeral service will be held at 3 p.m. officiated by Pastor Devin Wintermeyer.

Interment will follow at Union Hill Cemetery, Rossiter, where military honors will be accorded by the Rossiter American Legion.

Memorial donations may be made in Mingo’s memory to the Rossiter Volunteer Fire Company or New Beginnings Church.

Online condolences may be made at www.shumakerfh.com

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