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John R. Coleman, 82, of Lock Haven, passed away from the effects and complications of dementia on Thursday, Oct. 24, 2024, at the Nursing and Rehab Center in Jersey Shore. Born on Feb. 3, 1942, in Williamsport, he was a son of John R. and Queen Louise (Clemens) Coleman. John married True E. Bilby on July 12, 1975.
John is survived by his wife True; three children, Ronald M. Coleman and his wife, Lynn, of Bloomingdale, N.Y., Randall M. Coleman of Owls Head, N.Y., and Cindy L. Ellis and her husband, Gary, of Blue Springs, Mo.; four step-children; six grandchildren, Travis Ellis, Julie Canfield, Christopher Coleman, Katlyne Williams, Mackinzie Coleman and Blake Coleman; nine great-grandchildren; and one sister, Sandy Bittner and her husband, Dennis, of Mountville, Pa.
Along with his parents, John was preceded in death by his infant son, John R. Coleman; brother, David Coleman; and half-brother, Robert Bubb.
John was a 1959 graduate of Bald Eagle Area High School. He enlisted in the United States Navy on Oct. 1, 1959, and received his honorable discharge on Feb. 1, 1963. While serving, John was aboard the USS Northampton which was part of the U.S. Naval blockade of Cuba during the missile crisis.
John committed his life to Christ in 1979 at the Bellefonte United Methodist Church and remained an active member of the United Methodist faith throughout his life.
John had various professions throughout his lifetime after serving in the Navy. He worked for United Carpenter and Jointer of America (1963-1974), Central PA-Community Action (1974-1980), Stocker Chevrolet (1980-1982), Morton Buildings (1982-1984), Owner, Operator and Manager of Mt. View Lodge, N.Y., (1984-1990) and Bare Hill Correction Facility (1989-2005). While at Bare Hill, John achieved his National Certified Teaching Certificate. He retired in 2005.
John enjoyed hunting, fishing, socializing, playing his guitar, golfing and creating stained glass treasures for his family and friends. He coached Little League Baseball, was Cub Master for Pack 330 Cub Scouts and Scout Master for Boy Scout Troop 36 in Bellefonte. Serving as Scout Master for nine years, John advocated for and guided many young men to learn and live the values of the Scout Oath. John championed for and guided 12 scouts to the prestigious rank of Eagle Scout. He was also a member of the Order of Arrow. After moving to Upstate N.Y., John served as a BSA District Commissioner for this region for an additional five years.
Public viewing will be held on Wednesday, Oc. 30, 2024, from 6-8 p.m. at the Daughenbaugh Funeral Home, 201 Spring St. Milesburg. Funeral service will be on Thursday, Oct. 31, 2024, at 11 a.m. at the funeral home with Pastor Doug Conway officiating. Burial with full military honors will follow funeral service at Schencks Cemetery, Howard Twp.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Daughenbaugh Funeral Home, Inc. in Milesburg, Pa. An online guest book can be signed, or you may post your condolences to the family at www.daughenbaughfuneralhome.com