Thomas R. Doyle

Thomas R.  Doyle, 84, of Green Lane, Bedford, died Sunday, November 22, 2009 at his residence.  He was born on September 26, 1925, in Portage, a son, of the late Alex and Carrie (Long) Doyle.  On August 14, 1948 in Portage, he married Marie B. Coleman and  she survives along with a daughter, Deborah wife of Ralph Robinson of Murrells Inlet, SC,  five grandchildren:  Todd and wife Ann, Brett, Ryan, Kelly, Rachel and husband Charlie, six great grandchildren, and one sister, Theda Galloway of Chambersburg.  He was preceded in death by six brothers:  Don, Paul, Regis, Jack, Charles, and Robert Doyle.

He was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church.  He taught social studies along with driver’s education at Bedford High School, and was the former athletic director before retiring in 1986.  For 21 years, in the summers he worked for Exxon at the Midway Plaza.  He was an avid fisherman and belonged to many organizations such as the Bedford Elks, Life Member of Amvets, past board member of Bedford County Motor Club, Portage American Legion Post #0430, Bedford VFW Post 7527, P.A.S.R. Pennsylvania Association of School Retirees, P.S.E.A., Penn State Education Association, N.E.A., National Education Association, P.S.R.S., Public School Retirement System. Mr. Doyle served with the Army Air Corps during World War II, flying 30 combat missions in a B-17 as a flight Engineer and top turret and side gunner.  He was awarded the Air Medal with four clusters, three Battle Stars, Good Conduct, American Campaign, and European Campaign medals.

Funeral Services:  Wednesday, November 25, 2009 at 11:00 a.m. at the Trinity Lutheran Church with the Pastor Raymond E. Short officiating.  Burial at Bedford County Memorial Park, with military rites conducted by the Fort Bedford Honor Guard.  Friends will be received on Tuesday from 3-5 & 7-9 p.m. at the Timothy A. Berkebile Funeral Home in Bedford. Our online guest book is available at www.berkebilefuneralhome.com.