PORT ALLEGANY — Betty J. Baer, 74, of Port Allegany died Wednesday (Nov. 26, 2025).

Born May 7, 1951, in Coudersport, she was the daughter of Harland W. and Leola K. Hardes Mericle. A 1969 graduate of Port Allegany High School, she was employed by Pittsburgh Corning Corp., Port Allegany.  She was a member of VFW Auxiliary 6391, Port Allegany and Port Allegany Lodge 460, Loyal Order of the Moose.

Betty enjoyed spending time with family and friends. She was an avid Buffalo Bills fan, watching every game. Over the years, she enjoyed shooting darts, putting puzzles together, crosswords, collecting carousel horses and seeing her friends at the Park Hotel.

Betty was passionate about her care for others. She spent time in nursing school and later in life served as a caregiver for a family friend until his death. She cared deeply for those she loved.

Surviving are two daughters, Sue (Mike) Speed and Millie (Chris) Knauer; six granddaughters, Desiree, Jessica, Shanna, Vanessa, Brooke and Bryana; five great-grandchildren; a sister, Gay Mericle Glenn; nieces and nephews; and her best friend, Karen Walker.

She was predeceased by a son, Kevin J. Baer; a sister, Bonnie L. Sheerer; and two brothers, David Mericle and William Mericle.

A gathering to celebrate Betty’s life will be held at a later date.  Memorials may be made to Port Allegany Moose Lodge 460, 35 Pearl St., Port Allegany, PA 16743.

Arrangements are under direction of Olney-Foust Funeral Homes & Crematory, Switzer Chapel, 77 Willow St. Online condolences may be expressed at olneyfoust.com.