Jack S. "Harold" Libby

Jack S. “Harold” Libby, 89 passed away Wednesday, May 11, 2022, at his home near Burnham.

Born November 2, 1932, in Weikert, Union County, PA, he was the eleventh of twelve children born to the late Daniel C. and Sarah E. (Hironimus) Libby.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by; brothers, Ralph T., William J., and Lyman L. Libby; and sisters, Ethel R. Caldwell, Kathryn “Ginny’ Martin, Nancy I. Ney, Marjorie M. Shively, Marion S. Priar, and Jean L. Boyer.

He is survived by; daughter, Cindy Lucas and husband, Kim, of McAlisterville, and a son, Mark S. Libby, of Anacortes, Washington; grandchildren, Megan Lucas, of Camp Hill, Joshua Lucas, of Whitefish, Montana, Jacob Lucas, of Auckland, New Zealand, Seth Libby, of Halden, Mass., Hannah Libby, of Duvall, Washington, and Emma Engles, of Hooksett, New Hampshire; a sister Josephine E. Mayes, of Elizabethtown, and a brother, D. Roger Libby, of Macungie. He is also survived by dozens of nieces and nephews whom he loved and mentored; and his faithful dog, “Red”.

He was previously an active member of the Burnham Church of the Brethren and was also a member of the Hironimus Union Church in Weikert.

“Harold” was a graduate of the Burnham High School, Class of 1950.

After serving n the United States Army during the Korean War, he was honorably discharged and began his advanced education at Gettysburg College and Juniata College, graduating with a degree in Biology in 1959. He subsequently obtained a master’s degree in public administration from Penn State University in 1970.

Jack began his work career after college, with the Pa Dept. of Health as a health officer and inspector. He then worked for the Dept. of Environmental Resources as a state supervisor for the Bureau of Community Environmental Control in north-central pa., retiring in 1991.

In his younger years, Jack was very active in the Burnham and Lewistown communities. He was a liaison for the health department and public schools, and he also served as president of the Burnham Lions Club. In that position, he participated in the planning and construction of the Burnham pool. He was also instrumental in the implementation of low-cost health screening for the benefit of surrounding communities held by the Lions Club, for which he received a commendation from the House of Representatives.

After retiring, he pursued his interests in travel, hiking, fishing, and working on projects at his home. He loved reading and pursuit of knowledge. He was passionate about the natural environment, its’ protection and preservation.

He spent many hours at his beloved cabin, Algoma, on Penns Creek hiking, fly fishing, and relaxing. He passed on his vast knowledge of the area’s history and wildlife to children and grandchildren.

He was an avid walker-seen by many in the area for years on his daily walks with his little dog, “Red”. He enjoyed meeting new people and learning from them. He had a wry sense of humor and a caustic wit. He also appreciated practicality, frugality, and the application of common sense.

His family would like to extend a heartfelt thanks to the many people who provided comfort and care for him over the years. Most recently, caregivers Ruth, Robin, Cindy, Tim, Kayla, and Kim. Also, hospice nurses Morgan and Lauren.

A private service will be held at the convenience of the family.

Those wishing to make contributions in Jack’s memory are encouraged to donate to the: Pennsylvania Parks and Forest Foundation. 704 Lisburn Road, Suite 102, Camp Hill, PA 17011, or the Hironimus Union Church, Weikert, PA 17885.

Arrangements are under the care of Heller- Hoenstine Funeral Homes, 108 First Ave., Burnham.

Online condolences can be offered to the family at www.hellerhoenstinefuneralhome.com

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