Ronald L. Mintmier

Mintmier, Ronald L., 64, Richland, died April 25, 2011 at Conemaugh Medical Center, from complications due to chemical exposure in his past military  service.  Born December 23, 1946, in Johnstown. Son of the late Earl  and Margaret (Smith) Mintmier.  Preceded in death by parents; Sister  Marilyn; niece Melissa; brother-in-law Robert Berndt, and sister-in- law Anna Berndt. Survived by wife of 39 and a half years, Jane M.  (Berndt) Mintmier; son Mark Mintmier of Richland and daughter Kristen  (Mintmier) Hoover, married to Andy Hoover of Roaring Spring;  granddaughter Lilly Hoover; sister-in-law Helen Berndt; sister-in-law  Rhoda Berndt; nieces Robin and Rebecca, and five great nieces and  nephews.  A 1965 graduate of Greater Johnstown High School and  electronics vocational school in Ohio.  He enlisted in the U.S. Army from 1966  to 1969, where he was trained in electronic communication and served  in the 1st Infantry Division known as the Big Red 1. Ron reached the  rank of sergeant and served 17 months in Vietnam, earning several  Distinguished Service medals.  In the military, he worked on avionics  electronics and enjoyed riding on the rudders of the helicopters and  taking photographs over Vietnam, amassing a collection of over 500  slides.  Ron worked for Verizon (formerly GTE) for 35 years as a  service technician/installer until his retirement in 2003, following a  medical leave.  He was actively involved in the former Belmont  Volunteer Fire Department where he was First Assistant Fire Chief,  
Fire Police, a trainer and lifetime member.  Was also involved in the  formation of Cub Scout Pack 100 at the Christian and Missionary  Alliance Church.  Former member of Belmont United Methodist Church,  
where he was married; and later attended several other area churches  where he served in a variety of capacities.  Also a member of Vietnam  Veterans of America Chapter 364 in Richland, American Legion Post  0849, Disabled American Veterans and the National Rifle Association.   He especially enjoyed camping, hunting, eating out and growing his garden. Friends received 2-4 and 6-8 pm Thursday and 9- 10 am Friday, time of service at the Harris Funeral home, 500 Cherry Lane, Richland. Rev. Joel Nogle, officiating. Interment with military rites by Menoher Post #155, VFW, Ritual Team at Forest Lawn Memorial Park. (Online condolences may be posted at www.wharrisfuneralhome.com)