Rick L. Nearhood

Rick L. Nearhood, 61, of Blain, went to be with the Lord on Nov. 29, 2024 at his home. Born on July 15, 1963, he was the son of Mary Jane (Myers) and the late James E. Nearhood Sr. Rick graduated from West Perry High School in 1982 and also retired from the West Perry School District after working as an environmental specialist for many years. Rick was known for his altruism, thoughtfulness and big heart so it is no surprise that he volunteered for many places throughout his life - most notably his 50 years of service with the Blain Fire Company and 40 years as a Fire Police Officer and Captain. In addition, Rick also drove the ambulance for New Bloomfield Fire Company, volunteered at the Tuscarora State Forestry where he was part of the Golden Eagle Program and helped his late son, Jeramy, with both of his businesses (Health and Safety Solutions and Mobile Motor Medix). As a Christian, Rick was a former member of Three Springs Church of the Brethren and later in his life attended Manassa Community Baptist Church in Blain. With his faith in the Lord and caring, loving nature, Rick would do anything for anyone. He was a cheerful and kind man who loved to make others smile by joking around and being light-hearted. He enjoyed fishing, tending to his vehicles, watching the old Westerns, Christian music - particularly Daniel O'Donnell, eating at a diner and taking care of his animals. A collector of keys and Match Box cars, Rick was an old-school gentleman who embraced his traditional values. He loved his friends and family dearly and will be missed greatly. Rick is survived by Betty, his loving wife of 41 years, his mother Mary Jane, brother James and wife Wanda, brother Rodney and wife Sandy, sister Brenda Collins and husband Clifford, Angel his beloved cat and Buddy the duck, several nieces, nephews and cousins. In addition to his father James, Rick is preceded in death by his son Jeramy who passed only a few short months prior and his Aunt Patricia and Uncle Robert (Jim) Mumper. To help with unexpected funeral costs, memorial contributions can be made to Boyer Family Funeral Home, 101 W. Main St., New Bloomfield, Pa 17068. A Celebration of Rick's life will be held at the Boyer Family Funeral Home in New Bloomfield on Sunday Dec. 8, 2024 at 3:00pm. A viewing will be held 2 hours prior to the service. Pastor Richard Black will be officiating. The Boyer Family is honored to handle arrangements for the Nearhood family.

Rick L. Nearhood

July 15, 1963 - November 29, 2024