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Mr. Bernard Webster Koontz,63, of E. Pitt Street, Bedford went home to be with the Lord, Wednesday, December 7th, 2011 at Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center, Johnstown.
Mr. Koontz was born in Everett on Friday, July 30, 1948, the son of the late Raymond Charles Koontz, Sr. and Bertha Mae (Messersmith) Koontz.
He is survived by Brother- Roy R. husband of Patricia (Long) Koontz, Bedford; Sister- Charlotte A. wife of Rick L. Clark, Breezewood; Brother- Herbert W. Koontz, Everett; Sister- Hilda A. wife of Thomas Way, Bedford; Brother- Raymond C. Koontz, Jr., Enola; Sister- Brenda S. wife of Raymond P. "Buster" Glass, Shermansdale. He is also survived by four half-sisters, one half-brother and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by three half-sisters and one half brother.
Bernard was a junior at Everett Area High School at the time of his accident that left him paralyzed. Because of his disability, he was an advocate for People of All Disabilities and was concerned in making changes for the handicap. He is thankful for his in-home care from his caregivers. Along with his family, he was also thankful for the Area Agency on Aging, Center for Independent Living, Home Nursing, UCP, Bedford Hospital Emergency Department and Conemaugh Hospital I.C. Unit.
Bernard was a member of the Spring Meadow Family Worship Center in Fishertown. He was employed at UPMC Bedford Memorial Hospital in the housekeeping department. He enjoyed family get togethers and reading his Bible.
A funeral service will be held at Jack H. Geisel Funeral Home, Inc., Raystown Road, Everett at 11:00 AM on Saturday, December 10th, 2011 with Bishop Chris Clinger officiating.
Interment will be held at Everett Cemetery.
Friends are invited to call on Friday from 5:00 - 8:00 PM at the funeral home.
Memorial contributions may be made to Spring Meadow Family Worship Center, 2875 Quaker Valley Road, Fishertown, PA 15554.
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Condolence Booklet
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Gilbert Davis
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Posted Thu December 08, 2011
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I am happy for Bernard that he is now enjoying being with The ONE Who died and arose from the dead , our LORD Jesus. Bernard's trials and afflictions have worked for him a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory. ( 2 Corinthians 4:17)KJB. Bernard had told me that he was thankful for being a quadriplegic because he came to know The LORD through that painful event . All those decades he endured but they were not in vain. I am sure he would not have traded them for anything because of what God had in mind and purpose, especially for now that he reaps the glory of a life well served . He loved God , others and was thankful knowing that some day he would be in a greater blisss because of those sufferings. " It is given on the behalf of Christ not only to believe on Him but all suffer for His name sake." (Philippians 1:29). He knew that all that suffering had a purpose and part of that purpose he enjoys right now. I will miss you brother. All who know The LORD by faith and trust in Jesus Christ have a sure hope that one day we will be with those who are there now. I pray our LORD comes soon so we can enjoy that sweet fellowship with Bernard and all those with Jesus now. (Acts 20:21; I Thessalonians 4:16,17) "..Even so, Come, LORD Jesus.." Rev. 22:20
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Lisa Cullen
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Posted Fri December 09, 2011
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I worked with Bernard as part of the Bedford Regional Advocacy Team for a number of years. He worked to make things better not only for himself but everyone in his community. He was a strong advocate but a good friend as well. I know the last number of years for Bernard were not easy but he accepted it. His voice was and will be missed. I know he is now at peace. I'm sure those of us who knew him and miss him will feel his guiding hand as he watches from his spot in Heaven.
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Darla Oakes
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Posted Sun December 11, 2011
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Thank you Uncle Bernard for praying me into the Kingdom of God. I'm so thankful you lived to see me grow in the Lord ....now I Praise God that you are NO LONGER BOUND by ANYTHING......I can only imagine how you RAN into our Masters arms!!!! See you soon !!!!!
Love, Darla
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Pam & John Montgomery
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Posted Mon December 12, 2011
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We were honored to work along with Bernie as he advocated for persons with disabilites over the years. He had so much to offer everyone including his vast knowledge of disability law. His wit and humor lit up the room and he truly lived each day to the fullest. We celebrate the life of this wonderful and caring individual who made the world a much better place. May God embrace him and bless his family and friends at this difficult time.
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John & Patricia Brenner
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Posted Mon December 12, 2011
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Hold on to your memories, and let them guide you during this time od sadness.
With our sympathy
John & Patricia
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Wendy (Nunamaker) Dishong
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Posted Mon December 19, 2011
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I took care of Bernie for a little over a year while I worked for UCP he was the most kind hearted person I had ever met he would have given the shirt off his back to anyone that needed it and he never let his disability stop him from doing what he believed was right he will be missed and I know he is up in HEAVEN WALKING WITH JESUS CHRIST OUR SAVIOR!!!! may you R.I.P. Bernie.
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Submitted by Gib Davis on Sun December 11, 2011
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Image: dan / FreeDigitalPhotos.net
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