Obituary of David Maser

David Lawrence Maser, age 61, of Pennsylvania Furnace, entered into heaven on Friday, September 16, 2011. He was born May 9, 1950 in Johnstown, the son of the late Clarence Maser and of Leona Constable who survives in Johnstown. David was preceded in death by his beloved wife Dianne Martinovich Maser and by his daughter Amanda. He is survived by his son, Zachary D. Maser of Boalsburg; three sisters, Sandra Bennett of Daytona, Fla., Beverly Maser-Ellis of Johnstown and Leslie Maser of Johnstown; and two brothers, Michael Maser of Daytona Beach, Fla. and Gregory Maser of Swanton, Ohio. David graduated from Westmont Hilltop High School in 1968 and The Art Institute of Pittsburgh in 1970 and embarked on a career as a graphic designer. The family moved to State College in 1984. David was art director for Commercial Printing and then migrated to Penn State Outreach Marketing from 1993 to 2008. He was visual arts coordinator of the Johnstown Area Arts Council and also served as its vice president. For many years he sketched portraits and caricatures in numerous arts and craft events throughout Pennsylvania, including the Central PA Festival of the Arts. Through holidays, birthday parties, drawings, and homemade toys and games, his children were fortunate to grow up with his unique creativity and imagination. David was a dedicated and loving husband and father. Along with his wife Dianne, he founded ChildHope Inc. in 1990, a non-profit organization created to help children with life-threatening and chronic illnesses and their families. ChildHope provided services and activities to almost 200 families. Before that, David and Dianne became contacts for the Make- A-Wish foundation, involving them with coordinating wishes for children and their families. Although he suffered many ailments including Leukemia, those who knew him were amazed and inspired by his courage, his attitude, and his strength. He touched many lives, and his memory will continue to do so for years to come. Visitation will be held at Koch's Funeral Home, State College, from 5 to 8 the evening of Monday. The service will be held at 10 am on Tuesday at the State College Presbyterian Church with the Rev. Joel Blunk officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Dianne and Amanda Maser to the Brain Tumor Association, 2720 River Road, Des Plaines, IL 60018, website: http://www.abta.org/ Arrangements by Koch Funeral Home, State College. Online condolences may be made at www.kochfuneralhome.com.