Donald R. Leader

Donald R. Leader, 79, of Bedford, died Tuesday, July 8, 2014 at UPMC Bedford Memorial Hospital surrounded by his family. He was born on October 15, 1934, in Bedford, a son of the late Velma K. (Coughenour) Sallada. He is survived by the following family: four daughters: Kathy A. Schrift and husband Gary, of Wrightsville, Donna L. Leader, of Bedford, Gwen Sabo, of Fishertown, and Deborah Barclay, of Bedford; three sons: Steve Ritchey, of Dillsburg, Gary Ritchey, of West Palm Beach, FL, and George Ritchey, and wife Lisa, of Manns Choice, a grandson he raised in his home, Justin Leader, of York, 17 grandchildren, and 21 great grandchildren, and 1 great great grandchild.

Donald was a member of the Bedford United Methodist Church, and served in the Army during the Korean Conflict while there he helped build airports in the Azores Islands.  He retired after 25 years with Penndot. He was a member of the Bedford American Legion Post #113, and was an avid Steelers, Pirates, local Bedford High School Sports Fan, and enjoyed bowling, and racing.  He sponsored bowling teams, local race cars, and local sports teams.

A Memorial Service will be held on Thursday, July 10, 2014, at 11:00 a.m., in the Chapel at the Timothy A. Berkebile Funeral Home, in Bedford, with Jim Miller, officiating.  Burial at Bedford County Memorial Park with full military rites conducted by the Fort Bedford Honor Guard.  Friends will be received on Thursday, from 10:00 a.m., until the hour of the service at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made in Don’s memory to: Bedford High School Sports, 330 East John Street, Bedford, PA 15522.  Our online guest book is available at www.berkebilefuneralhome.com.