John F. Stephens
John F. Stephens, 78, of Philipsburg, died peacefully February 11, 2019, at home with his wife, three children and his dog, Oscar, by his side.
John was born on May 11, 1940, in Philipsburg, a son of the late Thomas W. and Nora (Finnigan) Stephens.
He was employed with General Cigar, formerly located in Philipsburg. Early in his career, he was employed as a mechanic. He was then able to work his way into a management position at the plant. He was also employed with the Middle Department Inspection Agency, Inc., West Chester, (Pa), as a building and electrical inspector until his retirement.
John was a Life Member of the B.P.O. Elks #1173, Philipsburg.
He was a devoted sports fan when it came to the Pittsburgh Steelers and Pirates; and the Penn State wrestling and football programs. He was also fluent in German; a language that he studied and learned on his own.
He was married on June 8, 1957, at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Osceola Mills, to the former Constance “Connie” McDonald, who survives at home.
He is also survived by three children: Cindy S. Viehdorfer and her husband, Scott, of Philipsburg, Mary S. Moore and her husband, Charles, of Sneads Ferry, North Carolina and John L. Stephens and his companion, Lori Morra, of Sandy Ridge; four grandchildren: N. Rian Bender and her husband, Nathan Lucas, of Philipsburg, Trevor J. Turner and his wife, Joni, of Little River, South Carolina, Justin Moore and his companion, Sam, of Harrisburg and Kelly Viehdorfer and her companion, Travis Quillen, of Greenville, South Carolina; five great-grandchildren: Ky and Kinley Bender, Kendyn and Macee Turner and Jacob Lucas; one sister, Margaret (Stephens) Durica, of Houtzdale; and numerous nieces, nephews and other extended family members.
John was preceded in death by two brothers, Thomas W. and James E. Stephens, in addition to his parents.
An Elks Service will be held on Thursday, February 14, 2019 at 1:00 pm at the Beezer-Heath Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 719 E. Spruce Street, Philipsburg.
A Memorial Service will begin immediately following the conclusion of the Elks Service with Rev. Brenda K. Leigey, officiating.
Visitation will be on Thursday, from Noon until the time of the services at the funeral home.
Interment will be in SS. Peter & Paul Catholic Cemetery, RD Philipsburg.
Memorial contributions may be made in John’s memory to the Happy Valley Animals in Need, 146 October Drive, State College, Pa 16801.
