BEDFORD, PA -- John Edward Flanagan, Sr., 78, of Bedford, PA, went to be with the Lord on Saturday, August 19, 2023, at his home.

John was born April 1, 1945, to the late Stelmer and Vivian Krause (Petenbrink) Flanagan.

He leaves behind his dedicated wife of 56 years, Holly Flanagan; son, John Flanagan, Jr. and wife, Kim; daughter, Janice Flanagan and Ken Nolan; granddaughters, Morgan Nieberlein and Justin Clark, Chasity Flanagan; grandsons, Zachary Nieberlein and Lindsay Glotfelty, Luke Flanagan, Malakye Liller and Karina Grant; great grandson, Camden Fender, and one great grandson on the way; brothers, William (Sonny) Flanagan and Jimmy Flanagan; sisters, Carolyn Huff, Janet Durastanti and Alceo; nephews, Rob Leasure (Dawn), Mike Flanagan (Jomanda), Dennis Delzell (Paula), Rob Durastanti (Michelle), Aaron Delzell (Allison), Jason Delzell, Robert Mayne; nieces, Dawn Benson (Bill), Mandy Durastanti, Nikki Breighner (Gary), Jessica Darby (Jesse), Misty LaRue; aunt, Betty Harmon.

John loved the outdoors and was the definition of true grit. He was a lifetime, avid hunter and fisher in PA, WV and MD. The hunting and fishing stories that were shared with his wife, children, grandchildren and friends will never be forgotten. They were often lengthy, detailed, and animated. The one that got away or how big the antlers were – these memories of his love of hunting and fishing will be well cherished. He surely entertained and taught something to anyone who hunted or fished with him.

John was a 1963 graduate of Mt. Savage School where he played baseball and basketball. After high school, he joined the United States Army. He was formerly employed by Bethlehem Steel and Kelly Springfield until the doors closed. He then worked for a few private land owners as a groundskeeper, enjoying the outside even at work. He retired in 2008. John attended Highland Baptist Church. He was a longtime member of Piney Mountain Sportsman's Club and Barrelville Outdoor Club.

John was well known for his stops at friends and family's houses. He would bring deer bologna, fresh fish or vegetables from the garden to share. And, of course, there were stories! Family and friends will surely miss those knocks on the door!

He will be sadly missed. The stories will carry on forever along with his memory! He is now resting in the arms of Jesus and no longer suffering. Watch over us like you did when you were here.

The viewing will be held from 4-6 p.m. on Thursday, August 24, 2023 at Scarpelli Funeral Home, P.A., 108 Virginia Ave, Cumberland. A funeral service will immediately follow at 6pm with Pastor Michael Calhoun officiating.

Interment will be at 12 p.m. on Friday, August 25, 2023 at Parsons City Cemetery, Parsons, WV.