Donald E. Nearhoof, 98, Antis Township, went home to be with his Lord and Savior Monday morning, May 10, 2021 at Amber Terrace, Altoona.
He was born July 20, 1922 in Antis Township, the seventh of eight children of the late Leroy and Bessie May (Bowers) Nearhoof. He was the last of his immediate family.
On April 18, 1948, he married his loving wife of 72 years, Shirley O. Ross at Riggles Gap Church of the Brethren, and she preceded him in death on Sept. 7, 2019.
He is survived by three children, Linda Myers and husband, Ken, Patti Hollen and husband, Ken and Daryl Nearhoof and wife, Laura; 8 grandchildren; 14 great grandchildren; 2 great-great grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by a great grandson, Jakob Hood.
Don was a 1940 graduate of Bellwood Antis High School. An Army veteran of World War II, he served with distinction, as a staff sergeant in the European Theatre, and continued to serve during the Korean Conflict with the Army Reserves, Chambersburg. In 1979, he retired as an engineer at Pennsylvania Railroad/Conrail after 40 years of service.
Pap was a stalwart and lifetime member of Riggles Gap Bible Church, where he faithfully served in many capacities. He was best known for his Sunday school teachings and his song leadership, even though he couldn’t carry a tune in a rusty bucket.
He enjoyed hunting, fishing, golfing and gardening. He also enjoyed spending several winters in Florida and tinkering around the house on various projects.
Don always had a joke to offer, that most didn’t get. He was loved and admired by many, especially for his smile and outgoing personality. He set the example of being an awesome husband, father and Christian servant. Don’s greatest joy of all was spending time with his family and many friends. He will be sadly missed by all who knew and loved him.
Friends will be received from 4 to 7pm Thursday, May 13, 2021 at Jon C. Russin Funeral Home, Inc. Bellwood, and from 10-11 am Friday, May 14, 2021 at Riggles Gap Bible Church. A funeral service will be held at 11am Friday at the church, Pastor William Ice officiating. Interment will be at Antis Cemetery.
The family suggests that contributions in Don’s memory be made to Riggles Gap Bible Church or the World War II Memorial, Heights Blvd & East 11 St., Houston, TX 77008.