David Larry Bookhamer

David “Larry” Bookhamer

David “Larry” Bookhamer, 77 of East Waterford went home to be with the Lord on Thursday April 18, 2019.

He was born March 13, 1942 in Altoona a son of the late Edgar and Dorothy “Dot” (Hite) Bookhamer.

He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 52 years, Rev. Marsha; three children, Karen (Rick) Fox of Bradenton, Fl., David (Kathy) of Lilly, and Missy (Renee) Peters of Greenwood, Altoona; three grandchildren, Joshua, Marlissa, and Jizelle, as well as his pride and joy, his great grandson Cooper; a sister Maxine Keevert of Woodsfield, OH; and numerous extended family members.

Larry was preceded in death by a brother Ronnie and his trusted companion Butch.

Mr. Bookhamer was a member of Faith United Methodist Church of East Waterford.

He was a 1960 graduate of Altoona High School and a lover of all things Altoona or Blair County related.

His knowledge of area history was unmatched. One point of exceptional interest and knowledge revolved around the three different times he worked at Gable’s Department Store, his experience and knowledge allowed him to participate in a book outlining some of Gable’s history. This was a particular point of pride for him, even though the historian “got a few things wrong.”

Having had a few jobs through life his favorites included basement master carpenter, backyard gardener, softball coach, and internet recipe chef. But most of all, grandfather. He enjoyed nothing more than time with his grandkids, whether it be a Burger King lunch complete with a crown, time in the garden teaching his ways, or throwing softballs and baseballs like a pitching machine for weekends on end. He was always there for friends and family even if just for a phone call to offer advice on how to cook, bake, or fix anything.

Until we all meet again, we will remain jealous of the French fries, the sauerkraut, and the chocolate cakes that you’ll be making for all your friends.

Friends will be received from 4-7 p.m. Tuesday April 23, 2019 at Myers-Somers Funeral Home, Inc., 501 Sixth Avenue, Altoona and 10-11 a.m. Wednesday April 24, 2019 at Second Avenue United Methodist Church, 130 Second Avenue, Altoona where a funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m.

Interment will be made at Grandview Cemetery, Altoona.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial donations please be made to the Central Pennsylvania Humane Society, 1837 East Pleasant Valley Boulevard, Altoona, PA 16602 or to Faith United Methodist Church of East Waterford, PO Box 32, East Waterford, PA 17021.

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