Avanel L. Dugaw, age 71, of Edinboro, died Saturday, March 28, 2015 after suffering with Alzheimer’s for many years. Born November 12, 1943 in Union City, PA, she was a daughter of the late John and Martha Childs Estes. She married Gary R. Dugaw on January 20, 1962 and he survives.

Dugaw, Avanel L.Avanel was a loving wife, mother, and grandmother and a gifted artist. She was known locally for her “Avanel’s Originals”– mostly her clay sculptures and water colors, but also for her floral arrangements, decorations, and hand-painted cards. Many of her artistic works can be found in local homes today.

Avanel was a talented soloist and sang at many weddings and funerals. She enjoyed flower gardening and she loved children, babysitting for many families over the years.

In addition to her husband Gary, she is survived by two children, Kirk Dugaw of Erie and Michelle Bennett and her husband Doug of Edinboro; four granddaughters, Chantelle Bennett, Ashley Dugaw, Grace Bennett and Sami Bennett; two brothers, John Estes and wife Jeri of Littleton, CO and Jeff Estes and wife Debbie of Troy, OH; a sister, Marcia Hunter and husband Russ of Union City; and many nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends at Van Matre Family Funeral Home, 306 Erie Street, Edinboro on Tuesday from 2 – 4 p.m. and from 6:00 p.m. until the funeral service at 7:00 p.m. Burial will be private at Edinboro Cemetery.

Memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, c/o “Avanel’s Originals”, 1128 State Street, Suite 301, Erie, PA 16501.