Obituary of Walter Kenneth Gilbride , 74

Walter K. Gilbride, 74 of Belleville, PA, passed away unexpectedly yet peacefully at Geisinger Hospital Danville on May 25, 2014. He was born in Glensfalls, NY to the Rev. W.A.R. and Sara (nè Johnston) Gilbride and lived in both the Boston, MA area as well as Central PA.

He was the loving and devoted father of Kerri Gilbride Leahy and her husband James Leahy of Winchester, MA, as well as the longtime companion of Rhoda Peachey of Belleville, PA. He is also survived by his friend and former wife Irene Gilbride of Lexington, MA, and many extended family members and friends.

Walt began his career in advertising and sales in the State College area, and was an active member of the community belonging to the JC’s, The Elks and was a lifetime member of the Alpha Fire Company among other activities. He moved to the Boston, MA area in the 70’s and continued a long and productive career there in the news/media advertising and sales industry. He then returned to Pennsylvania in 2000 and had his own sales company in the food brokerage industry.

Funeral services are private and a celebration of his life will take place at a later date. Should friends desire, memorial donations made be in his name to the Grace Lutheran Church building fund at 205 South Garner Street, State College, PA 16801 or the American Heart Association.

Arrangements are under the care of Koch Funeral Home, State College. Online condolences and signing of the guest book may be entered at www.kochfuneralhome.com.