John W. Gearhart

John W. Gearhart, 53, of Unityville, died Thursday, Sept. 15, 2011, at his home.

Born June 8, 1958, in Philipsburg, he was a son of John H. and Mary Ann Williams Gearhart. He and his wife, the former GayAnn Johnson, celebrated 29 years of marriage on Feb. 6, 2011.

John graduated from Philipsburg/Osceola Area High School, Class of 1977, and was currently employed with Maxum Petroleum, Montoursville. He was a member of Bethany United Methodist Church, Hughesville, and held various administrative positions over the years. John was a Scout Leader for over 20 years and was currently Scout Master of Troop 70.

He was a loving son, devoted husband, cherished father and best friend, Pap, to his grandsons. John was an outdoor enthusiast who enjoyed hunting, camping and hiking. He was also a talented woodworker and avid sports fan who loved spending time with his family, especially his grandsons.

Surviving, in addition to his wife and parents of Woodland, are a son, Christopher (Amanda) Gearhart of Catawissa; a daughter, Beth (Brendan) Glica of Milton; a brother, David (Jeri) Gearhart of Hobart, Ind.; a sister, Gwen (Rodney) Buck of Woodland; two grandsons, Ben and Timmy Gearhart; and many nieces and nephews.

Funeral services were held 10 a.m., Tuesday, at the McCarty-Thomas Funeral Home, 557 E. Water St., Hughesville, with Rev. Gerald D. Wagner and Rev. Barbara J. Kaetzel-Row co-officiating. Burial followed at Salem Cemetery, Unityville. Friends called from 7 to 9 p.m. Monday at the funeral home.

The family provided the flowers and suggest memorial contributions be made to Boy Scouts of America Troop 70, P.O. Box 441, Picture Rocks, PA 17762, or Bethany United Methodist Church, 113 S. Second St., Hughesville, PA 17737.

Due to the recent flooding, access to the funeral home will be made by turning onto North Fifth Street and making an immediate right onto Hunsinger Alley at the rear of the funeral home.

Expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.mccartythomas.com.