Francis P. ‘Bear’ McCloskey

He married Patricia Flanagan, the love of his life, on June 6, 1970, at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church.

Surviving are his wife, Patty; his four children: Jeanette Betar (Dr. Donald) of Hollidaysburg; James McCloskey (Maggie) of Imler; Matthew McCloskey of Altoona; and Kevin McCloskey (Erin) of Hollidaysburg. He was the proud grandfather of nine grandchildren: Dr. Madelyn, Abigail, Samantha, Connor, Karon, Claire, Tyler, Carson and Meredith; and a great-grandchild, Bennett. He is also survived by a sister, Mary Ann Donnelly; and in-laws: Lloydell McCloskey, Albert Schlecht, Michael and Debbie Flanagan, Cathy and John Cribari, Patty Flanagan and Tina Flanagan; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his brothers: Eugene, Paul and John McCloskey; and by his sisters, Mary Jo McCloskey and Irene Schlecht.

He graduated from Altoona Catholic High School in 1961 and then apprenticed with Riley Plumbing. He went on to join Plumbers and Pipefitters Local Union 354 as a master plumber/pipefitter. Through his work, he contributed to the construction of schools, hospitals and power plants across the region.

Bear cherished his annual spring trips to fishing camp at Ole Bull State Park, where he spent time with family and friends. He also loved hunting camp, bird watching, gardening and caring for his fruit trees and grapevines. Exceptionally skilled, he could rebuild engines and fix nearly anything. He found joy in making and finishing furniture, always taking great pride in doing every job as perfectly as possible. His dedication to hard work and his steadfast faith continue to live on in his children and grandchildren.

He was a member of The Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament.

Special thanks to Monsignor Saly, the Carmelite Sisters and the staff of Garvey Manor for their kindness and care.

At his request, there will be no viewing, but friends will be received for visitation from 8:30 to 10 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 18, 2025, at The Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament. A funeral Mass will immediately follow at 10 a.m., with Monsignor Stanley Carson officiating and Father Christopher Lemme con­celebrating. Committal will be at Saint Patrick’s Cemetery in Gallitzin.

Arrangements are by The Stevens Mortuary Inc., 1421 Eighth Ave., Altoona.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 (stjude.org/memorial).

Condolences may be made at www.stevensfamilyfuneralhomes.com or Stevens Family Funeral Homes Facebook page.