Obituary

Birkhimer, Jean M., 70, Windber, passed peacefully Aug. 26, 2017, surrounded by her family after a 15-year courageous battle with breast cancer. Born Jan. 12, 1947, Windber, daughter of the late Joseph P. and Alice M. (Miller) Young. Preceded in death by sister, Mary Healy; and brothers-in-law, William Healy and Edward Birkhimer. Survived by her loving husband, Gary W. Birkhimer, whom she recently celebrated 50 years of marriage with; children, Gary W. Jr. and wife, Lori; Sean M. and wife, Stephanie; Krista A. Crognale and husband, Brian, all of Windber; five grandchildren, Nathan David, Jordan Makenna, Erin Nicole, Justin Michael, and Ava Grace; siblings, Carol Caputo and husband, Gary; Joseph Young and wife, Anna Marie; Virginia George and husband, Robert; and David Young and wife, Dana, all of Windber; sister-in-law, Linda Sell, Johnstown; numerous nieces and nephews; and special friends Dorie and Pat. Jean was a 1967 graduate of CVMH School of Nursing and worked for Windber Hospital for 37 years as a Registered Nurse until she retired. She attended Calvary United Methodist Church in Windber. Jean loved spending time with her children and grandchildren. Family would like to extend their appreciation to Windber Hospice for the care they gave Jean. A service will be held privately at Jean’s request, Rev. Betsy Statler, officiating. Interment at Berkey Church of the Brethren Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to any organization in memory of Jean’s life. Arrangements in care of Simple Alternatives, Inc., Affordable Cremation & Sensible Funeral Care, 717 Main St., Windber. Condolences may be made at SimpleAlternativeCares.com