William Vance Reagle

William V. Reagle, Sr., 60, of Route 62, Franklin, died Tuesday July 12 due to complications of Alzheimer's Disease which he had been battling for four years. Mr. Reagle was born in Franklin on March 22, 1951, the youngest son of Boyd A. and Elizabeth J. (Vance) Reagle. A lifelong resident of this area, he attended Polk Elementary School and was a 1969 graduate of Franklin High School. He was also a member of Polk United Methodist Church. In January 1970, Mr. Reagle was hired as a machinist for Joy Manufacturing Company. During his time there, he served in several positions and on various committees, including Union President and Steward for the International Association of Machinists Local 1842. He retired in 2007 when diagnosed with his illness. Mr. Reagle had a lifelong interest in history, in particular local and family history, and with his father Boyd, conducted much research for the Reagle and Montgomery family histories which were later published. As a young man, he was an avid bottle collector and enjoyed metal detecting, was a fine musician and, in addition to singing, played drums, guitar, and, in later years, violin. Mr. Reagle was an avid hunter and enjoyed being out in the woods. He also earned a black belt in Taekwondo. In later years, Mr. Reagle was a member of the Steam and Gas Engine Society and took a great interest in antique machinery and old signs, and enjoyed restoring antique John Deere tractors. Mr. Reagle was a Master Mason and member of Myrtle Lodge No. 316, where he served in various positions, including Worshipful Master. Mr. Reagle was also a Shriner and a member of the Venango County (Zem Zem) Wheel Patrol, with which he participated in many local parades and celebrations. He was also a member of the Eagle's Clubs of Franklin. On June 6, 1970, he married Debra Sue Heasley in Franklin and she survives. In addition to his wife, he is also survived by a daughter, Heidi R. Matchett of Sterling, VA; two sons, William V. Reagle, Jr. of Enon, OH.and Scott Bell of Franklin; one grandson Aaron J. Matchett of Sterling, VA; his father and mother-in-law Virgil and Jean Keith of Franklin; his caregivers, Mrs. Mary Crowley and Mrs. Dawn Ward of Franklin; and many friends, cousins, nieces, and nephews. Mr. Reagle was the last surviving member of his immediate family. In addition to his parents, Mr. Reagle was preceded in death by a brother, Boyd A. Reagle, Jr. in 1989; uncles Clarence Reagle and Rev. Elmer Reagle; and a cousin, Elmer Reagle, Jr. Family and friends will be received on Saturday, July 16, 2011 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Gardinier Funeral Home, Inc., 1315 Chestnut Street. Funeral Services for Mr. Reagle will be held at the Funeral Home at 1 p.m. following visitation, with Rev. Joseph P. Martin, Jr, pastor of Cooperstown United Methodist Church, officiating. In lieu of flowers, it was Mr. Reagle's wish that donations be made either to the Venango County Humane Society 2724 Deep Hollow Road, Franklin, PA 16323 or to a charity of one's choice. Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.gardinierfuneralhome.com.