Sydney T. “Syd” Atherton, 78, Northern Cambria, passed away May 13, 2023, at UPMC Shadyside after complications from a recent diagnosis of Myasthenia Gravis.
He was born at Miners Hospital in Spangler, the son of Sydney and Annie (Wood) Atherton.
Surviving are his loving wife of 57 years, Sandra (Whited) Atherton; daughters: Tracey and her husband, Darin Clipper, of Morganton, Ga.; Jackie and her husband, Greg Bernard, of Duncansville; and Erin and her husband, Travis Lingafelt, of Altoona; grandchildren: Kaitlyn (Charlie), Sydney, Madison (Trent), Noah (Ally), Alec, Deklan and Adelaide; and great-grandchildren, Emersyn and Charlotte, with another expected soon. Also surviving are numerous brothers and sisters-in-law: Tim and Mary Beth Whited, Becky and Dave Warfield, Tina and Brett Wilt and Kathy and Bill Smith; and nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; infant brothers; in-laws, Ernie and Minnie Whited; and brother-in-law, Chuck Whited.
Syd was a veteran of the U.S. Air Force and member of Barnesboro American Legion Post 508 and VFW Post 343.
He retired after 40 years working various positions at Penelec; beginning as a lineman in 1969, and ending as a foreman in 2009. Syd was dedicated to his work and co-workers. Not a man to be idle, he worked at Med Van Transport until his passing.
A man strong in his faith, Syd was a member of St. Paul Presbyterian Church, where he served as clerk of sessions and as an elder.
Active in his community, Syd was a life-member and Trustee of Hope Fire Company, the Cambria County Fireman’s Association, Central District Fireman’s Association, the area Jaycees and Smokey Valley Sportsman’s Club.
He was an avid outdoorsman and spent his free time fishing, hunting and shooting. He enjoyed the fellowship of his friends as a member of the Rembrandt Club and South Fork Rifle Club. He took pleasure in a lively morning coffee at Lin’s Sunoco.
Syd will be fondly remembered for his trademark greetings to friends: “What’s up Buttercup” or “How are you Tiger?”
He was a lifelong learner. Syd was curious about history, aviation and nature. He was adventurous and willing to try new hobbies.
In his 30s, he began skiing and scuba diving. He enjoyed riding his motorcycle or cruising with Sandy in his little red convertible.
Always ready to help, Syd was known for his uncommon kindness and quick smile. He was a longtime blood donor. During his recent treatment, the gift of his blood donation became evident when he received numerous blood and plasma infusions. Syd was a true patriot, proud of his country and our democracy. Above all, Syd was a conservative Christian, loving husband, “Daddy” and “Poppy,” always making his faith and family top priorities.
Friends will be received from 4 to 8 p.m. Saturday, June 3, 2023, at Moriconi Funeral Home Inc., Northern Cambria, with military honors at 4 p.m.
A funeral service will be held at 3 p.m. Sunday, June 4, 2023, at St. Paul Presbyterian Church, with the Rev. Marty Cartmell officiating.
Please consider donating blood or plasma in Syd’s honor. If you are so moved, donations may be made in Syd’s memory to St. Paul Presbyterian Church, 1006 Chestnut Ave., Northern Cambria, PA 15714; or Hope Fire Company, 1021 Philadelphia Ave., Northern Cambria, PA 15714.
Arrangements are by Moriconi Funeral Home Inc., 1303 Bigler Ave., Northern Cambria.
www.moriconifuneralhome.com