Obituary of Ernest Milton Harpster

Ernest Milton "Ernie" Harpster, 85, of Gatesburg, died on Thursday, March 23, 2023 at Mount Nittany Medical Center, State College.

Born January 6, 1938 in Bellefonte, he was the son of the late Robert M. and Florence A. Rossman Harpster. On February 13, 1960 he married Dora Lou Harpster, his wife of 63 years, who survives.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his five sons, Michael and his wife, Ruth, of Spring Mills, Joseph of Gatesburg, James of State College, Donald and his wife, Marsha, of Gatesburg and Gregory

and his wife, Kristin of Pine Grove Mills; one sister, Dorothy Johnson of Gatesburg. He was the proud grandfather of seven grandchildren, Nicole Tice and her husband, Tyler, Kelly, Lindsey, Tyler and his wife, Margaret, Taylor, Michaela and Jason; two step-grandchildren, Alexandra Earnest and her husband, Benjamin and Nicholas McKee. Ernie was also a great-grandfather to Connor, Tanner, Aiden and Rowan. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister Geraldine Struble, and brothers Russell, Ralph and Allen.

Ernie graduated from State College Area High School in 1955, served in the US Army Reserves from 1956-1998, retiring as a Chief Warrant Officer W4. He served four years of active duty with the 442nd FLD Service Company in Bellefonte and Philadelphia, 1983-1987.

He worked as a radio, TV and appliance repairman from 1957-1962, then at HRB from 1962-1966, and at the Applied Research Lab (ARL) at Penn State University as an Engineering Aide until retiring in 1998. Ernie also was the proprietor of Woodchuckers Wood Burning Stove Sales from 1974-1984.

Ernie was a Pennsylvania Hunter Safety Instructor, a life member of the NRA, PA Rifle & Pistol Association, member of VFW 5825 in Pine Grove Mills and a member of the American Legion Post 245 of State College, serving with the Honor Guard. He was also a life member of the Reserve Officers Association, a certified NRA rifle & pistol instructor as well as a certified 4-H shooting sports instructor. He served as a Senior Leader/Instructor of the Tussey Mountain Junior 4-H Riffle Club from its formation in 1971 until 2013. Ernie was a life member of the Gatesburg Lutheran Church, serving on the church council for several terms. He was also a member of the Gatesburg Historical Committee.

Visitation will be from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m., on Monday, March 27, 2023 at Gatesburg Lutheran Church, 1924 West Gatesburg Road, Warriors Mark. Memorial service will follow at 2:30 p.m., at the church, with Pastor Susan Williamson officiating.

Burial will be in Gatesburg Cemetery immediately following service.

In Lieu of flowers please donate to Gatesburg Lutheran Church, 1924 W. Gatesburg Rd. Warriors Mark, PA 16877.

Online condolences may be made at www.kochfuneralhome.com.