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Harry Levi Cree, 93, peacefully passed away Sunday. He was born at the family homestead in Glasgow, Pa., the son of George and Lena (Troxell) Cree.
Surviving are his wife of 26 years, Eleanor (McNulty) Balzano-Cree; a daughter, Becky Cree (Don Claar); a sister-in-law, Irene Cree; three stepdaughters: Beverly (Pat) Owens,
Belinda (Tony) Passanita and Jane (Arnold) Caretti; and a stepson, Jim (Pennie) Balzano. He was blessed with nine grandchildren: Bobbie Jean, Josh, Maria, Birdie, Toni Marie, Victoria, Rebekah, Rachael and Isaac; and 12 great-grandchildren.
Harry was preceded in death by his first wife, Martha (Cavaner) Cree; and six brothers: Oscar, Willis, Chester, Charlie, Herbert and George Jr.; and a grandson, Dominic Balzano.
Harry was a 1950 graduate of Reade Township High School. He attended Penn State University, where he graduated with a master's degree in Elementary Education.
Known to many as "Mr. Cree," his goal in teaching was to motivate his students both in and out of the
classroom. Harry was very passionate about educating students of all ages. He served as substitute teacher at various schools and eventually became the elementary principal of Glendale School District. He and his first wife,
Martha, enjoyed running a preschool in Fallentimber, where they touched the lives of many young children before Martha became ill. Mr. Cree retired from education in 1992 after 42 years of service.
He was a member of NEA-Retired.
Harry and Eleanor found each other later in life after losing their spouses. Harry adored Eleanor. Bubba and Pop Pop spent their time together playing cards, enjoying their grandchildren and great-grandchildren and putting jigsaw puzzles together. He loved to read, sing, play the piano, eat sweets, garden and took interest in wood-crafting.
Harry was a devout Christian and a strong man of God. He was an active member at Trans4mation Church, where he and Eleanor attended faithfully. His kind soul and caring heart made him a wonderful friend to many individuals.
Friends will be received from 10 a.m. until the funeral service at noon Friday, Jan. 12, 2024, at Trans4mation Church, 1001 S. First St., Altoona, with the Rev. James Balzano (stepson) officiating. Interment at Pleasant Hill Cemetery, Glasgow.
Arrangements are by Gibbons Funeral Home, 1688 Liberty St., Ashville.
In remembrance of Harry's beautiful spirit, we simply ask that you take a moment and extend a kind gesture to someone you know, say a heartfelt prayer for someone in difficulty or carry out a random act of kindness.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to Great Commission School, Altoona, in Harry's memory.
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