Obituary of Cecil Loftis

Cecil R. "Jack" Loftis born August 16, 1935, of State College and died Friday March 9, 2012 at home under the care of his special hospice nurses. Jack died after a long battle with acute myeloid leukemia. Jack was born in Spring Hill, WV. He is survived by his wife and best friend of fifty years, Lela M. Loftis, son, Douglas (Beth) Loftis of Windham, Maine and daughter, Kerrie (Joe) Pariso of Columbia, Maryland, four granddaughters, Jessica, Michaela, Hannah and Lydia Pariso and three grandsons, Alexander, Christopher and Zachary Loftis. A brother James (Wilma) of Richmond, IN and sister Rebecca Krautz of Man, WV and many other beloved family and friends. Preceeded in death by his parents, Cecil and Margaret Loftis and sister, Virginia Ann. Jack got his Bachelor of Science degree from the university, of West Virginia in January 1961, He began his career with West Penn Power in Arnold, PA transferring to State College in February 1971, He retired in August in 1996. Jack and Lee enjoyed many trips and bluegrass festivals in their retirement. Jack was an avid woodworker making many pieces of beautiful furniture for family. Jack was very active in the life of Park Forest United Methodist Church. A memorial service will be held at Park Forest Village United Methodist Church on Sunday, March 11, 2012 at 3:00 p.m. with the Rev. Lee Ellenberger officiating. Private services and burial will be at the convenience of the family in Centre County Memorial Park. Memorial contributions may be made to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society at P.O. Box 9031, Pittsfield, MA 01202-9031 or Park Forest Village United Methodist Church at 1833 Park Forest Avenue, State College, PA 16803. Online condolences may be made at www.kochfuneralhome.com.