Barbara J. Casper, 71, of Bellefonte, passed away at home on Monday, September 9, 2024. Born on July 11, 1953, in Bellefonte, she was the daughter of the late George Edward Zong, Sr. and Cecilia (Kushwara) Zong. On June 1, 1974, she married her beloved husband, Howard Casper, who preceded her in death on February 14, 1990.
Barbara attended St. John’s Catholic School until 1967 and was a 1971 graduate of Bellefonte High School. She went on to earn her associate’s degree from Mount Aloysius College in 1973. She began her 41 year career as a Registered Nurse at the Lock Haven Hospital before moving to the Emergency Department at Mount Nittany Medical Center. She retired in October 2014.
She is survived by her son, Andrew Michael Casper (Jessica) of Bellefonte, and two grandchildren, Brandon and Blaine Casper. Also surviving are her seven siblings, Mary Kay Badger, Rosalie Halderman, Susan Zellers, Georgina Knepp, Christina Crestani, Elizabeth Farrington, and George E. Zong, Jr., and numerous nieces and nephews.
In addition to her husband, Howard, and parents, George and Cecilia, she was preceded in death by three nephews, Jonathan David Halderman, Christopher George Knepp, and Matthew Christopher Knepp, and her brother-in-law, James Rodney Casper.
Barbara was a member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church. She enjoyed gardening, making ceramics, and traveling in her younger years. She was also an avid animal lover, especially horses, and cherished her pet dogs and cats throughout the years. More than anything, she loved spending time with her family. She leaves behind countless memories that her loved ones will forever hold in their hearts.
Funeral Mass will be held on Friday, September 13, 2024, at 10:00 AM, at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, 134 E. Bishop Street, Bellefonte, with Father Brian Saylor officiating. A private graveside service will be held for her immediate family. Arrangements are under the direction of Wetzler Funeral Service, Inc. in Bellefonte.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in memory of Barbara to Pets Come First by going to www.petscomefirst.net/donate or by sending checks to 2451 General Potter Highway, Centre Hall, PA 16828, or to a nursing program of the donor’s choice.