James 'Jake' M. Kochenderfer

James M. ‘Jake’ Kochenderfer, Jr., of Burnham went to be with the Lord on Thursday, April 23, 2015 at Ohesson Manor Nursing Home after an extended illness.

Jim was born in Lewistown on June 15, 1934, the son of the late James and Helen (Filson) Kochenderfer.

He is survived by: his loving wife of 52 years, Linda (Betlyon) Kochenderfer; his son, Dan and wife, Suzanne; his grandson, Steven, whom he loved dearly; and a special niece, Elaine Parker.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister.

Jim graduated from Lewistown High School in 1953 and enlisted in the United States Air Force serving in the Korean Conflict. He owned and operated Burnham Hardware & Gifts for 36 years. His knowledge of the hardware business helped many people in many ways through the years.  Jim was very proud of the business and the business won many awards.  He was always ready to help his local community.

Jim was a very loving and gentle man who enjoyed spending time with his son and grandson, Steven, and also attending sprint car races and driving his antique truck. He was a member of the former St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Burnham, serving on the church council and property committee. He was also an honorary member of the Burnham Fire Company.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Monday, April 27, 2015 at Heller-Hoenstine Funeral Homes, Inc., 108 First Ave., Burnham with Pastor Mike Sigler officiating.

A viewing will be held from 6 – 8:00 p.m. Sunday, April 26 at the funeral home.

Interment with VFW Post 5863 honors will take place in Birch Hill Cemetery, Burnham.

Memorial’s in Jim’s name may be made to Alzheimer’s Assoc. 3544 N. Progress Ave., Suite 205, Harrisburg, PA 17110; Ohesson Manor Nursing Home, 276 Green Ave., Lewistown, PA 17044; or to Wounded Warrior Project, 301 Grant St. Suite 900, Pittsburgh, PA 15219.

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