OBIT: Joseph F. HARKER, 1925, Duncansville, Blair County, PA

Contributed for use in the USGenWeb Archives by Michael S. Caldwell

Copyright 2007.  All rights reserved.
http://www.usgwarchives.net/copyright.htm
http://www.usgwarchives.net/pa/blair/
_________________________________________ 

FAMOUS HUNTER IS PARALYSIS VICTIM

Joseph F. Harker Dies at His Home in Duncansville. Was Known as 
Auctioneer and Constable.

  One of Blair county's most famous hunters, Joseph F. Harker, the man 
who knew more about 'coon hunting than all the rest put together, died 
this morning at 10.15 o'clock at his home on Chestnut street, 
Duncansville, death following a stroke of paralysis.
  Mr. Harker was first stricken on July 14, and had recovered to a 
certain extent. On last Sunday evening, he suffered a second stroke 
which proved too much for his weakened constitution.
  He was born at Claysburg, Feb. 15, 1852, the son of George and Mrs. 
Rachel Harker. Early in life the family moved to Freedom township where 
he resided many years, later moving to Blair township and about fifteen 
years ago moved to Duncansville where he since resided.
  In September 1875, he was united in marriage with Miss Mary A. 
Hetrick. She survives. To this union, eleven children were born, five 
of whom preceded the father. The surviving children are James H. Harker 
of near Newry, Mrs. Minnie McGeary of Bellwood, Mrs. Mary Carns, Mrs. 
Cora Henry of Duncansville and David and John, at home.
  He is also survived by one brother and three sisters: Albert Harker 
of Lakemont Terrace, Mrs. Mary Barnett of Cross Keys and Mrs. Daniel G. 
Ressler and Mrs. William B. Butler of East Freedom. Twenty 
grandchildren and three great-grandchildren survive. He was a member of 
the Lutheran church.
  Mr. Harker was best known as a 'coon hunter and auctioneer. From 
childhood, he liked to hunt. He became an expert in 'coon hunting and 
practically every 'coon hunter in the county learned the art under his 
direction and with the aid of his well-trained dogs.
  He was an auctioneer of rare ability and, aside from his work as a 
farmer before moving to Duncansville, conducted many sales in this and 
neighboring counties. He served as constable in Freedom township for 
many years and after moving to Blair township, was elected peace 
officer there and served several terms.
  His services as an officer was always in demand and he served on 
special duty at county fairs in this county for many years and rendered 
good service.
  After retiring from the farm, he was engaged in various duties, 
keeping at work until incapacitated by illness. In recent years, the 
Harker Coon club was organized in Hollidaysburg and Mr. Harker was the 
president and, as long as his health permitted, led the club members in 
their nightly hunts for ringtails. The club retains his name and has 
been on a number of successful chases this season. However, Mr. Harker 
was unable to accompany them.
  Burial will be made in the Lutheran cemetery in Newry.

Altoona Mirror, Thursday, 18 November 1925

  The funeral of Joseph F. Harker of Duncansville, whose death occurred 
at his home yesterday morning, will be held Friday morning at 10.30 
o'clock at his late home on Market street. The services will be 
conducted by Rev. T. Stacey Capers, pastor of the Hollidaysburg 
Presbyterian church. Interment will be made in the Lutheran cemetery at 
Newry.

Altoona Mirror, Thursday, 19 November 1925