Michael D. Pendergrast, 62, Altoona, died Saturday evening at Altoona Regional after an extended illness.
He was born in Altoona, son of the late Henry E. and Vera M. (Short) Pendergrast. He was twice married, first to Suzanne A. Heiss and then to Mary Lou Knee.
Surviving are Suzanne Pendergrast and Mary Lou Pendergrast, both of Altoona; three children: Shawn M. of Altoona, Shana L. Smith and husband, Troy, of Warriors Mark and Brandon T. of Altoona; two grandchildren: Trent Alan Smith and Isabella Smith; and five siblings: Shirley Siedlarczyk of Altoona, Thomas P. Pendergrast of Carbondale, Barbara Smith of East Freedom, Edward Frank Pendergrast of Duncansville and Peggy Bovard of Altoona.
Michael was a 1969 graduate of Altoona Area High School and graduated from Penn State University in 1978. He served in the U.S. Army as a specialist fourth class in the Vietnam War and received the National Defense Service Medal. He retired in 2005 as a mental health worker at Bon Secours Hospital, Altoona, with 15 years of service and previously had worked at Big Brothers Big Sisters and Altoona Hospital.
Michael was a past member of Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church, Altoona. He was a member of the Newburg Volunteer Fire Association and was the resident on call of Green Avenue Tower for the Altoona Housing Authority. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, yard sales, coin collecting and sports memorabilia.
At Michael's request, there will be no viewing. Committal rites will be held at Calvary Cemetery at the convenience of the family with Father James D. Zatalava officiating.
Arrangements are by Jones Funeral Home.