Gerald O. Traister
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Gerald O. Traister
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Gerald O. Traister, 90, of Widnoon, PA, passed away Tuesday, April 17, 2018, at his home, with his loving wife and family by his side.

He was born April 19, 1927 in Hawkville, PA, the son of Clinton O. and Beulah (Unger) Traister.

Gerald grew up in Hawkville and attended Hawkville Elementary School. He graduated from Kittanning High School in 1947 and honorably served in the US Army during the Korean War. The happiest day of his life was April 10, 1951, when he married the love of his life, Bobbi Colwell. They were the first couple married in Widnoon United Methodist Church where they remained dedicated members. For two years Gerald worked in the coal mines, but did not enjoy it. He went on to become a surveyor for Penn Dot, holding the position for 35 years until his retirement.

He loved hunting with his friend, Jack Westwood, and looked forward to visiting Hazen each month. Tinkering in his garage was one of his favorite hobbies and he was legendary for his talent of shooting flies with a rubber band. Gerald was proud to have attended the World Fairs in New York and Nashville, and had fond memories of trips to Rogers, OH with his wife and friends. He was also proud to have exercised his right to vote for more than 50 years in a row and had a special place in his heart for his three dogs, Jack Bee Bee, Pood and Cricket. Above all, Gerald loved getting together with his friends and family.

He will be remembered with love by his wife, Barbara "Bobbi" (Colwell) Traister, and numerous nieces and nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews, and great-great-nieces and great-great-nephews.

Gerald was preceded in death by his parents and sisters, Cleda H. Traister and Esther M. Crisman.

The family will receive friends from 2-4 and 7-9 PM on Friday, April 20, 2018 at the Bauer-Hillis Funeral Home, 758 Main Street, Rimersburg.

Additional visitation will be from 10 AM until the time of funeral services at 11 AM on Saturday, April 21, 2018 at the funeral home, with Pastor Don Scandrol officiating.

Interment will be in Duncan Cemetery, Templeton, PA.

Contributions can be made in Gerald's honor to Vitas Healthcare, 2009 Mackenzie Way, Suite 110, Cranberry Twp., PA 16066, or the Mechling-Shakley Veterans Center, 1413 State Route 268, Cowansville, PA 16218.

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Gerald O. Traister
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