Charles Wayne Hepner

Charles Wayne Hepner, known affectionately to many as "Peaser," "Wayne," or "Coach Pap," of New Florence, passed away Friday, January 30th at the age of 84.

Wayne was born in Johnstown, Pennsylvania, and spent his life deeply rooted in his community and devoted to the people he loved. He is survived by his older brother, Kenneth Hepner and wife Sue of Winston-Salem, North Carolina; his daughter, Paula, and her husband, Gregg Crusan, of New Florence; and his son, Todd, and his wife, Lani (McClintock) Hepner of New Florence. Also survived by sister-in-law Darlene (McDermott) Williams and his beloved Aunts Nancy Marino and Gloria Grata

Wayne was a proud grandfather to four grandchildren: Joshua, married to Cassandra (Black) Crusan of Herminie; Jason Crusan and Eva VanFossen of Tire Hill; Joseph and his wife, Amber (Spaid) Hepner, of Blairsville; and Trent and his wife, Bethanie (Meharey) Hepner, of Murrysville. He was also the loving great-grandfather of seven beautiful great­ grandchildren whom he cherished deeply-Oliver, Miles, Jacob, Daniel, Henley, Ace, and Oaklynn. He also loved his nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles "Ace" and Leona (Younkin) Hepner, and by his beloved wife, Bonnie (McDermott) Hepner, who passed away eight years ago and was deeply missed by Wayne every day.

Wayne dedicated 39 years to a career in banking at the former Johnstown Bank and Trust. As a loan officer, he was well known for his honesty, kindness, and sense of humor, often. telling those seeking a loan that they could always "C. Wayne." His reputation for integrity and genuine care earned him lifelong friendships.

Community service was central to Wayne's life. He was an active member of the New Florence Lions Club for over 60 years and a member of Acacia Lodge in Blairsville. He helped start the Laurel Valley Jaycees basketball program, where he worked with young athletes to teach fundamental basketball skills and the value of teamwork.

Wayne also made a lasting impact as a coach. He coached junior high basketball at Laurel Valley High School and assisted with the Ligonier Valley Rams basketball team, helping lead the program to a Heritage Conference title and a District 6 championship. His players admired him not only for his knowledge of the game, but for his encouragement, patience, and heart-earning him the cherished nickname "Coach Pap." Wayne also coached Pony League Baseball for New Florence VFW and coached the team to a perfect 22-0 record. He also was an assistant coach for the Laurel Valley Varsity Baseball Team.

A man of faith, Wayne was a member of the First Baptist Church of Seward, where he was baptized and gave his life to the Lord.

Wayne will be remembered for his generosity, unwavering commitment to his family and community, and the countless lives he touched as a husband, father, grandfather, great­ grandfather, banker, coach, mentor, and friend.

His family would like to thank Crossroads at Arbutus Park Manor for their care of Wayne.

Friends will be received on Thursday, February 5th, from 2-4 and 6-8 at the Kenneth A. Stuart Funeral Home. 139 Ligonier St., New Florence, where service will be held at.11:00 AM Friday, Pastor Rex Lichtenfels Interment, Armagh Cemetery.