Russell H. Kantner, 63, Emporium

Russell H. Kantner, 63, of Emporium, PA, passed away at his residence on Friday morning, August 21, 2026, following a lengthy illness with a glioblastoma.

He was born June 17, 1963, in St. Marys, PA, a son of the late Donald and Marie Bellis Kantner.

Russ graduated from Cameron County High School with the Class of 1981. He continued his education at Penn State University, where he wrote for the student newspaper, The Daily Collegian, and earned a bachelor's degree in English, with focus on Creative Writing.

Russ had a special passion for rescuing cats and was a skilled and avid disc golfer who enjoyed playing competitively. He also had a love of travel and extensively explored the Southwest and Northwest United States, as well as Canada and Alaska. Russ appreciated the beauty and adventure he found in the places he visited and created many lasting memories along the way. He lived in Philadelphia for several years, and was an avid football fan of the Philadelphia Eagles, but even more so of the Nittany Lions and Buffalo Bills. He also had an amazing memory for dialogue in movies and TV shows, able to recite precise lines just before the character on screen was about to say them.

He is survived by his brother, Robert Kantner, Emporium; and two nieces, Heather and Rebecca.

In addition to his parents, Donald and Marie Bellis Kantner, he was preceded in death by a brother, James Kantner.

There will be no visitation. A private service will be held at the convenience of the family.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Cameron County SPCA, 678 South Mountain Rd., Emporium, PA 15834.

Online Condolences may be placed at www.BarnettFuneralHome.net

BARNETT FUNERAL HOME, Inc. entrusted with arrangements.