Loraine E. "Lorie" (Gilliland) Berkebile

Loraine E. “Lorie” Berkebile, 90, went home to be with her Lord on Saturday, November 21, 2015 at Colonial Courtyard in Bedford.  Born November 30, 1924 in Altoona, she was the daughter of the late Charles and Mary (Vandrew) Gilliland.  In addition to her parents, Lorie was preceded in death by her husband of 65 years and 11 months, Clifford A. “Slim” Berkebille, an infant brother, Dennis, a brother, Kenneth and a newborn great granddaughter, Angela Kuyat.  She is survived by her loving daughters, Diana L. wife of Bob Larson, Tennessee & Cindy L. wife of Richard Powell, Bedford, her son of her heart, Jim Kuyat husband of Faye, California and her dear sister Delores Butler, Johnstown.  Lorie is also survived by seven grandchildren, step grandchildren, 15 great grandchildren & 6 great great grandchildren, plus many loving nieces and nephews.

Loraine was a 1942 graduate of Ferndale High School.  She was a longtime member of Emmanuel Baptist church in Johnstown.  Lorie enjoyed singing with her daughters and in the choir of every church she attended throughout her lifetime.  She was an accomplished seamstress and quilt maker, while also enjoying knitting and crocheting.  Countless people all over the United States are grateful recipients of one of her quilts or afghans.  In recent years, Lorie spent much time reading her Bible and other spiritual books and attending Bible studies and worship services at Colonial Courtyard until her health prevented much participation.

Slim and Lorie loved to travel across the United States and owned several different RVs during that time.  They lived in California for several years before retiring to Bedford, then to Johnstown.  They then wintered in Arcadia, FL and Southern California until Slim’s health deteriorated.  Lorie and Slim were wonderful hosts, always ready to welcome visitors with an impromptu meal and a bed for the night if needed.  Many people came to know Christ as their Savior because of their faithful witness.

We want to extend a very special thank you to the caring, compassionate staff of Heartland Hospice and Colonial Courtyard.  A very special thank you to Lorie’s friend Ron LeVan for his care, concern and companionship through some very rough times.

No memorial services are planned at this time.  Arrangements have been entrusted to Louis Geisel Funeral Home, Bedford.  Per Lorie’s wishes, her body will be donated to the Anatomy Gifts Registry.

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