Harry L. Gearhart

Harry L. Gearhart, of RD Hopewell, Pennsylvania, died in Snake Spring Township, Bedford County, Pennsylvania, on Sunday, September 17, 2017.  Harry was born on March 29, 1931 in rural Payne County, Oklahoma.  On April 5, 1953, he married R. Jane Zook in New Enterprise, Pennsylvania, who survives him.  He is also survived by daughter, Charlotte Z. Gearhart Wallace, married to David W. Wallace, of Everett, Pennsylvania.

 Harry began working in a grocery store in the 7th grade and through hard and diligent work was able to attend Oklahoma State University (then Oklahoma A & M) where he obtained his Bachelor of Science degree in Geology with a minor in both Chemistry and Physics.  After his service in the Army, he attended Oklahoma University where he obtained his Master of Science degree in Geology.  From 1958 through 1990, Harry worked as an exploration geologist in the oil and gas industry, first as a company employee in various positions until he struck out on his own in the early 1980s.   

 After living in Texas for more than 30 years, Harry and Jane retired to Bedford County, Pennsylvania in 1990, where they became active members of Community Grace Brethren Church.  

Harry will be well remembered for his steadfast faith in God, his devotion to his wife and daughter, his discreet generosity, his willingness to always help those in need, his grit, stubborn determination, wise counsel, ornery smile and kindness.   Harry enjoyed traveling, cooking, entertaining friends and family, going on mission trips and watching sports on television.  Harry will be greatly missed by all of those who knew and loved him.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made in Harry’s name to two of his favorite organizations:  Urban Hope, 210 E. Tioga Street, Philadelphia, PA  19134; or Samaritan’s Purse, P.O. Box 3000, Boone, NC  28607.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, September 23, 2017 at 6:00 pm at Community Grace Brethren Church, 1216 Raystown Road, Everett, PA  15537, with Pastor Jeff Peeler and Pastor Lee Seese officiating.  Burial will be private and at the convenience of the family.  

Arrangements made through Akers Funeral Home, Inc., 299 Raystown Road, Everett, PA.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.akersfuneralhome.com

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