Chris R. Vanderwende

Chris R. Vanderwende, 67, of Saegertown, passed away Sunday, June 14, 2015 at Rolling Fields Eldercare Community with his family by his side.

Chris was born in Erie, on March 16, 1948, a son of the late Richard H. and Margaret (Sutley) Vanderwende.

On April 24, 1971 Chris married Judy L. Luikart; she survives.

He was a member of Saegertown United Methodist Church.

In 2012 Chris retired from Meadville Medical Center where he was employed as a registered nurse in the Stepping Stones program. He had previously been employed by Teledyne Penn Union of Edinboro, the Greenville Airport, where he had earned his private pilot's license, and by Oakes and McClelland Lumber. He served as a Medic in the Pennsylvania National Guard from 1968 until his honorable discharge in 1974. A 1966 graduate of McDowell High School, Chris also graduated from Gannon University in 1997 as a registered nurse. He was a member of the Perry-Keystone Masonic Lodge #392 and of the Zem Zem Shrine. For many years, Chris was involved with Boy Scout Troop #254 where he served as Unit Commissioner. He participated in numerous camp outings, went on several trips with his troop including a 50 mile canoe ride down the Susquehanna River. An avid sportsman, Chris loved the outdoors, especially hunting, fishing and downhill skiing. Among his many skills and talents were woodworking and landscaping. Chris was proud to have built his own home.

In addition to his wife Judy of 44 years, Chris is survived by a son Kipp Alynn Vanderwende of Meadville, two sisters Kathryn Vanderwende of Erie, Susan App and her husband Leon of Sandston, VA, two nephews Michael App and his wife Lisa, Eric App and his wife Rebecca, several great nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Family and friends are invited to call from 2-4 on Saturday, June 20, 2015, at Saegertown United Methodist Church, 620 Euclid Ave., Saegertown where Perry-Keystone Masonic Lodge # 392 will conduct a service at 2:30 PM and Funeral Services will be held at 4:00 PM with Rev. Darrell L. Greenawalt, Pastor, officiating.

Chris will be laid to rest in Saegertown Cemetery, Hayfield Twp.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Saegertown Boy Scout Troop #254, C/O Jerry Hunter, PO Box 437, Saegertown, PA 16433.

Arrangements are under the direction of Stephen P. Mizner Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc., 330 Broad St., Saegertown.

Share your condolences at www.miznerfuneralhome.com