OBIT: Frank J. FIKE, 1973, Meyersdale, Somerset County, PA
  
  Contributed for use in the USGenWeb Archives by Meyersdale Library
  Transcribed by Lynn Beatty and proofread by Sally Statler.
  
  Copyright 2005.  All rights reserved.
  http://www.usgwarchives.net/copyright.htm
  http://www.usgwarchives.net/pa/somerset/
  _______________________________________________ 
  
  FRANK J. FIKE
  
    Frank J. Fike, 79, of Meyersdale RD 1, well known retired school teacher
  of the Meyersdale area, died unexpectedly Jan. 5, 1973.  Born Sept. 5,
  1893, in Summit Township, he was a son of the late Irvin H. and Sue
  (Miller) Fike.
    In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Mrs.
  Ada M. Peck, and his brother-in-law, Galen R. Peck.  He is survived by his
  only neice, Mrs. Reta Marie (Peck) Long, of Meyersdale RD 1.
    Mr. Fike taught for more than 50 years in the public schools in Summit
  Township, Paint Township and Garrett Borough, and in the Meyersdale Area
  schools until he retired in 1964.  Since then he did substitute teaching in
  the Meyersdale Area Schools.
    Beginning his teaching career in a one-room country school, the Lick Run
  school in Summit Township, he taught also in these schools in Summit
  Township: Glade City, Peck, Sandy Hollow, S. J. Miller and Summit Mills. 
  He also taught the Berkey school in Paint Township and the Garrett school
  in Garrett borough.
    He was known for his outstanding interest and dedication to his
  profession.  A graduate of California State College, he was a life member
  of its Alumni Association.  He was a former member of the National
  Education Association, Pennsylvania State Education Association, and also
  the local PSEA, where he was active in several capacities.
    Gave Encouragement
    As a teacher he gave generously of his knowledge, energy, enthusiasm and
  encouragement to his many students over the years.  He continually
  encouraged students to seek higher education and enter professions,
  including the teaching profession.
    Among the many former students who followed in his footsteps and entered
  the teaching profession was his only niece, Mrs. Reta M. Peck Long, who is
  presently teaching first grade in the Meyersdale elementary school.
   The Family Farm
    Although teaching was the major interest in his life, it was not the only
  one.  For many years he also maintained an interest and helped to operate
  the family farm in Summit Township, which was sold in 1953.  He was an
  active member of the Summit Mills Brethren Church, where he had served as
  Sunday School superintendent and was a Sunday School teacher for many years.
  
  Meyersdale Republican, January 11, 1973
  
  [F0266]