John C. Bathgate, 83, of State College, went home to be with his Lord, Friday, November 16, 2012, surrounded by his family, at home.
He was born November 6, 1929, in State College, son of the late John W. and Emma L. Williams Bathgate.
On April 20, 1956, he married Susan Dreese who survives at home.
John graduated from State College High School in 1948. He began his farming career as a dairy farmer, later devoting his efforts to raising beef cattle. While raising beef cattle, he also went to work as a laboratory technician in the Agronomy Department at the Pennsylvania State University, retiring in the early 1990's.
John was a member of the State College Assembly of God. He especially enjoyed gardening, caring for his lawn, working with animals, hunting and spending time out doors.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by two daughters, LeAnn B. Lorenz and her husband Eric of State College, and Betsy A. Ferdock and her husband Michael of Hatfield, and daughter-in-law Wendy Bathgate of Middlebury Center; four grandchildren, John James Bathgate, Jennifer Lorenz, and Christina and Melissa Ferdock; three great grandchildren, John (Robbie) and Christopher Bathgate, and Brooke Roldan; and one sister Lowie Kerns of State College.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son John David Bathgate; two sisters, Jean Green and Martha Bathgate, and a half brother Philip Williams.
Friends will be received from 10:00 a. m. until noon, Monday, November 19, 2012 at State College Assembly of God, 2201 University Drive Extension, State College, PA. The funeral will follow at noon, at the church with the Reverend Harry Brotzman officiating. Burial will be in Spring Creek Presbyterian Cemetery on Country Club Road, State College.
Contributions in his memory may be made to State College Assembly of God, 2201 University Drive Ext. State College, PA or to the Home Nursing Agency, 201 Chestnut Avenue, Altoona, PA 16603.
A guest book can be signed or condolences sent to the family at www.heintzelmanfuneralhome.com.