Final Salute

Francis E. Nearhoof, Jr., passed away after a short illness which resulted in heart failure on Saturday, October 23, 2021. Born in Philipsburg, Pennsylvania, on September 30, 1951, he was the eldest son of Beryl (Ray) Nearhoof and the late Francis E. Nearhoof, Sr.
Fran married Susan M. Meehan on January 6, 1971 and they remained happily married until his passing.
Upon learning Fran would be drafted into the Army in 1971, his “big brother,” John Waggoner, took him to the enlistment office, where, due to his mechanical experience working with his father, he was able to join the Seabees (Naval Construction Battalion). He served his country proudly at Grade E4 in Vietnam working on heavy equipment and constructing shelters for the Vietnamese Navy families until his honorable discharge in 1973.
Fran worked in family businesses his whole life, first at service stations with his parents and later operating Nearhoof’s Auto Service with his brothers. He enjoyed downhill skiing, drag racing, and baseball in his younger years, and was a fast-pitch softball player. He also enjoyed hunting, golfing, and bowling, in which he recorded nine 300 games.
He is survived by his loving wife, Susan, of 50 years; his mother, Beryl; and two adoring daughters, Jennifer (Ron) Tanguay and Lindsay (Mark) Rapp. He leaves also his four grandchildren, Calista (fiance Isaac Stacy) Tanguay, Jocelyn Tanguay, Delaney and Brandon Rapp; three siblings, Brenda (Daniel) Wisnieski, Richard (Maryanne) Nearhoof and Michael (Jodi) Nearhoof; many nieces and nephews, and several lifelong friends.
There will be a celebration of Fran’s life the Saturday after Thanksgiving, details will be announced.
If desired, donations to Lewiston Fire Company No. 1 or toward veteran suicide prevention at mission22.com are sincerely appreciated.
Published on October 28, 2021