John Popelish

John Popelish 83 of E. John St., Bedford, died Friday, September 19, 2008 at his residence.  He was born May 1, 1925 in Cresson, son of the late Michael and Anna (Morosko) Popelish.  On February 11, 1947 in Bedford, he married  Mary Regina Weber and she preceded him in death on January 3, 2003.  He is survived by the following children: Connie A. Popelish of North Fork, CA, John A. Popelish married to the former Donna Wayda of Waynesboro, VA, Linda A. Popelish of Gallup, NM, Rita A. Popelish, Mark A. Popelish married to the former Debra Kairis, Wade A. Popelish married to the former Kendra Rock, Joseph A. Popelish married to the former Brenda Dively, Mary A. wife of Michael Beegle all of Bedford, five grandchildren and two step-grandchildren, two great grandchildren and a sister Mary Kratzen of Baltimore.  He was preceded in death by a brother Charles.

Mr. Popelish worked as the Chief Maintenance mechanic at Kennametal from 1956 until his retirement in 1987.  Prior to that he had worked for Paul Arnold Construction, and helped build many of the homes in Bedford, prior to that had worked construction in Baltimore.  He was a World War II Army Air Forced Veteran, serving as a sergeant with the 9th Air Force 596 Bomb  Squad, 397th Bomb Group and he flew 15 combat missions in the European Theater.

Services will be at the convenience of the family, there will be no visitation.  In lieu of flowers, those wishing may make contributions to the Bedford County Historical Society, 203 S. Richard St., Bedford PA 15522 or the Fort Bedford Honor Guard c/o of Pete Innes, 205 Red Oak Road, New Paris, PA  15554 Arrangements by the Timothy A. Berkebile Funeral Home, Bedford.  Our online guest book is available a wwwberkebilefuneralhome, Inc.