Fred R. Connacher
Oct. 19, 1922 – Feb. 17, 2017
Fred R. Connacher, 94, Cresson, passed away Friday at home.
He was born in Cresson, son of the late Robert S. and Mary (Northammer) Connacher.
Surviving are his wife, Camilla (Lantzy), to whom he was married for 72 years; the five children the couple lovingly raised: Charles of Ashville, Cathy Mikula (Edward) of Hollidaysburg, Michael (Marcella Keagy) of Hollidaysburg, Theresa McConnell (Mark) of Ebensburg and Kevin (Cynthia Hollen) of Cresson; 17 cherished grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren, who lovingly knew him as “Pappap” and “Pappy.” He is also survived and lovingly remembered by numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by three siblings: Brian, Clifford (Clara Lutton) and Zella Gailey (James); and an infant son, James Patrick.
Fred was a veteran of World War II, having served in the U.S. Army from 1943-46 with the 562nd AAA AW Battalion as an artillery mechanic in the European Theater. He saw active duty during the Battle of the Bulge and Rhine Crossing, and served with the Occupation Army in Germany. Employed as a machinist and draftsman by various companies over the years, Fred retired in 1986 from L. Robert Kimball Corp., Ebensburg, where he was employed as a structural draftsman in bridge design. He was a member of the Cresson American Legion, Post 238, which awarded him the Americanism Award in November 2016 for his dedication and years of service to the Cresson community. He was a life member of Sankertown VFW Post 7377 and a member of St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, Cresson.
Over the years, on his own time, he took an active interest in preserving local history through his artwork and historical models. His art promoted an awareness of our rich local heritage, while honoring the contributions of past generations to the community’s growth and development.
Fred was a loving husband, father and grandfather and was a wonderful example in all of his roles.
Friends received from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Monday, Feb. 20, 2017, at Charles M. Kennedy Funeral Home, Cresson, where a vigil for the deceased will be held. A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 21, 2017, at St. Francis Xavier Church, the Rev. Leo Arnone officiating. Committal will be in the church cemetery. Military graveside rites will be performed by Cresson American Legion, Sankertown VFW and other local veterans’ organizations.
cmkennedyfh.com