James L. Lear

LEAR, James L., “Jimmy”, 74, of Richland Twp, died March 30, 2020, at Windber Regional Hospice.  Born November 30, 1945, in Johnstown, PA.  Son of the late Clarence L. and Gladys P. (Adams) Lear; also preceded in death by brother-in-law William D. Buell.  Survived by wife of 45 years, Karen G. (Buell) Lear; and son Sean J. Lear; brother-in-law of Robert B. Buell and Deanna B. (Braga) Buell; also, numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.  A 1963 graduate of Johnstown High School, and University of Pittsburgh Technical Institute; U.S. Navy Veteran, Petty Officer 2nd Class, USS Essex (CVS-9); employed by Executone Communications as a Telecommunications Technician; member of Bethany United Methodist Church; senior member of DeMolay International-Johnstown Chapter; former member of the Greater Johnstown Chamber Jaycees; founding committee Chairperson of the Richland Twp. Recreation Commission; former Audio Director Cambria County Junior Miss Pageant; National Park Service V.I.P. volunteer at the Johnstown Flood Memorial Site; member of The American Legion, Richland Post No. 849; Secretary of the Richland Twp. Planning Commission; Secretary of Men’s Nite Out Dinner Group; member of Johnstown Seafood Club; member of TCA-Fort Pitt Division; Life Member of the Johnstown Elks Lodge No. 175; and former member of East Hills Kiwanis Club of Johnstown.  Jim was a history buff and acquired a vast knowledge of facts concerning the Johnstown Flood of 1889 and the Civil War.  There was not a landmark or former landmark which he could not identify.  He was a very civic minded person with visions of improvement for the city, Richland Twp, and the area.  Jim liked meeting with friends at Panera Bread, Valley Dairy, Perkins, and the Corner Coffee Shoppe.  Many trips were enjoyed to Cape May, Bethany Beach, Myrtle Beach, and several island resorts.  He was a great cook, gardener, and landscaper.  Scorekeeper extraordinaire for DWTS and a great knowledge of trivia. A private viewing and funeral service will be held at Harris Funeral Home, 500 Cherry Lane, Richland. Pastor Adam Dotts, officiating. Entombment with private military rites by Conemaugh Valley Detachment, Marine Corps League at Richland Cemetery Mausoleum. A public memorial gathering will be announced at a later date. “The angels have come to greet you and take you to Paradise…Rest in Peace in the arms of God” (Online condolences may be posted to www.wharrisfuneralhome.com)