John E. Wolfhope, 94, of Bedford PA. passed away September 27, 2024 at the Hollidaysburg Veterans Home.
John was born on November 10, 1929 on the family farm in the New Baltimore area to Clement E. and Cecelia R. (Martin) Wolfhope.
He was the last surviving member of his immediate family.
John is survived by his wife of 69 years Esther (Hurley) to whom he was united in marriage on June 18, 1955 at Saint John the Baptist Catholic Church in New Baltimore, PA., daughters Debbie Rowan (Karl Sigler), widow of Mark Rowan of Manns Choice, Susie Wolfhope of Geistown, Angie Wolfhope of Bedford, Sons, Dave Wolfhope of Bedford, and Jeff Wolfhope husband of Erin (Raines) of Hickory North Carolina. He is also survived by grandchildren Trevor (Bobbie-Ann) and Kaylin Wolfhope, both of Bedford, Lucas and Griffin of Hickory N.C., along with one greatgrandchild, Owen Wolfhope of Bedford. In addition, he is survived by sister-in-law Marjorie Wolfhope and brother-in-law Clay Easter.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by siblings Lena Roberts, Mary (Harry Wilson) & (Roy Potts), Bill (Shirley) Wolfhope, Rita (Bob) Nave, Rose (Carl) Wilson, Cyril Wolfhope, Ann Easter, and Son-in-law Mark Rowan.
He helped on the family farm before working in the timber industry for R. R. Crissy Company, Central City until he entered the United States Army during the Korean conflict, serving from April 1951 until his discharge in April 1953 with the rank of Corporal. He earned the following decorations: Combat Infantry Badge, Korean Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Korean Ambassador Medal of Peace, and the United Nation's Service Medal. He worked in the construction industry in the Baltimore MD. area until he started working at Kennametal in 1955 where he would spend the next 37 years in various positions; the last as a tool and die maker in the model shop. He retired in 1992 and had a long and active retirement taking care of the family farm, cutting firewood, and helping at Rowan's Tree Farm. He loved being outdoors and spent many memorable days hunting with his kids and grandkids. He had a knack for fixing things, was also very adept in sharpening chain saw chains and doing most anything to help family and friends.
John was a hardworking, kind, considerate person and a true gentleman who left a large impression on those who met him. He loved spending time with and telling stories to family and friends during numerous gatherings at the "Farm". He was very devoted to his faith, a third-degree member of the Knights of Columbus, and served as a church usher well into to his 80's.
He was a Life Member of both the Bedford American Legion and the Schellsburg VFW, as well as, a member of the National Rifle Association.
Friends are invited to call Wednesday, October 2nd, 2024 from 3-6 PM at Geisel-Styer Funeral Homes, 330 E. Pitt St. Bedford, PA.
A Funeral Mass will be held Thursday, October 3rd, 2024 at 10 AM at St. John's Catholic Church, New Baltimore with a Committal Service to follow at the St. John's Catholic Cemetery, with military rites accorded by the Fort Bedford Honor Guard.
The family would like to express our heartfelt appreciation for the loving care that "Pap" received at the Hollidaysburg Veterans Home.
Memorial contributions can be made in memory of "John E. Wolfhope" to the Hollidaysburg Veteran's Home: 138 Veterans Blvd. Duncansville, PA. 16635.
Online condolences may be expressed at http://www.geiselfuneral.com/. Arrangements entrusted to Geisel-Styer Funeral Homes, Bedford, Pennsylvania.
Wednesday, October 2, 2024
3:00 - 6:00 pm (Eastern time)
Geisel-Styer Funeral Homes & Cremation Services Inc., Bedford
Thursday, October 3, 2024
10:00 - 11:00 am (Eastern time)
St. John the Baptist Catholic Church (New Baltimore)
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