Obituary of Gerald Wheeland

Gerald (Jake) Wheeland, 69, of Pine Grove Mills, died unexpectedly on Sunday, March 10, 2013 at his residence. Born October 2, 1943, in Pine Grove Mills, he was the son of the late George and Isabelle NeidighWheeland. He was a 1961 graduate of State College High School. He was employed at HRI. Previously he was employed at Eby's Paving, GOH Inc., Corning, Marata Erie and Capperella Plumbing. For many years he helped out at his sister's farm. (The Sunday Farm) Many people also knew him as Joby, Gerald, or Jake. Come fishing season you could find him down at his aunt and uncles, June and Gerty Wheeland's farm. The creek ran through the back of the property. Uncle June, Duane, Babe, Mike, Jake and his sons, Jerry and Chuck spent the first and second day of fishing there and of course Ginger Brandy helped ward off the chill of fishing. Jake enjoyed going to auctions, and to camp with his buddy Bill Harpster. Over the years he also enjoyed the butcherings that were held at Herb and Ann Rudy's farm. There were many wonderful times spent at the Rudy farm. Earlier years he loved going to the car races with Bob Metz and Paul at Clearfield and Huntingdon. As the years went by and grandchildren came he was so happy, they were the sunshine in his life, he was always at their birthday parties, holidays, picnics, whatever the occasion. Plus he loved any kind of food that was homemade. Years later when great-grandchildren arrived nothing made him happier than to be around Abrianna which he nick named "Wheezie" and the newest member Emerson, which he nick named "Lady Bug." He will be sadly missed by all. He is survived by three children, Kimberly Rearick and her husband, Mike, of State College, Gerald "Jerry" Wheeland and his companion, Beth Burke, of Kylertown, Charles "Chuck" Wheeland and his wife, Vi, of Pennsylvania Furnace; eight grandchildren, Tiffany Rearick and her companion, Kenny Inhoof, Skyler Wright and her husband, Landis, Lacey Rearick, Dustin Wheeland, Jesse Wheeland, Tyler Cowfer, Kendra Steele, Curtis Steele; two sisters, Doris Harpster and her husband, Jim, Jane Brown and her husband, Jim; one brother, Duane Wheeland and his wife, Jane. He is survived by numerous nieces and nephews. Visitation will be 6 until 8 p.m., Wednesday, March 13, 2013, at Koch Funeral Home, 2401 South Atherton Street, State College. Funeral service will be 10 a.m., Thursday, March 14, 2013, at the funeral home, with the Rev. Carl Campbell officiating. Burial will be in Pine Hall Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Gerald Wheeland Trust Fund, c/o Clearfield Bank and Trust, 511 Pine Grove Road, State College, PA 16801. Arrangements are under the care of Koch Funeral Home, State College. Online condolences and signing of the guest book may be entered at www.kochfuneralhome.com.