Ralph D. Hunsberger, 49, of Cranberry, passed away early Friday morning, June 21, 2013, after a courageous two year battle with cancer.
Born May 23, 1964 in Westfield, New York, he was the son of the late Melvin and Sylvia Brocious Hunsberger.
He was married February 23, 1983 to the former Cathy “Kate” McVay, and she survives. They were childhood sweethearts sharing over 35 years together as best friends.
Also surviving is a son, David McVay of Seneca; a daughter, Gale Hunsberger also of Seneca; two sisters, Anna Witherup and husband Rick of Oil City, Kathy File of Franklin; a brother, John Hunsberger and wife Mary of Seneca; his aunt, Hazel Deloe of Parker; his brothers-in-law: John McVay of Cranberry, Dan McVay of Rockland, Dick Pascorell and wife Jean of Cranberry; sisters-in law: Marcy Johnson of Oil City, Becky Cozad and husband Rick of Gastonia, N.C., and many nieces, nephews and cousins.
He was a long time employee of Anderson Metal Industries, Inc. of Franklin.
Mr. Hunsberger was a well known man on the local demolition derby circuit. In his younger days, he was a driver; and for the past 10 years, a successful builder of many winning cars for his daughter, Gale. He also gave of his car building talents freely and made many long-time friendships helping others. In addition to building Demolition Derby cars, Mr. Hunsberger enjoyed working on all types of automobiles. No matter what the season, he could always be found in his garage.
He shared a special bond with his great niece Brooke Scrivens. They could be found together often and she always knew how to melt his heart. They especially enjoyed working in the garage together.
He also enjoyed the constant companionship of his trusted cat, Midnight and his beloved dog, Lady.
Ralph’s cancer battle was not fought alone, the constant visits from his great friends Joe Dubinsky, Rob Kenniston, Dave Zeigler and many other family members and friends was a true blessing.
He was preceded in death by his parents, and his brother, Thomas Hunsberger.
In accordance with Mr. Hunsberger’s wishes, the family invites you to wear your favorite jeans and t-shirt and join them in celebrating his life at the visitation held from 3-8 p.m. Tuesday (June 25) in the Hile-Best Funeral Home, Inc., 2781 Rte. 257 in Seneca, Cranberry Township. A jeans and t-shirt funeral service will be held Wednesday (June 26) at 11 a.m. in the funeral home with the Rev. T. Christopher Hill, pastor of the Oil City Free Methodist Church, officiating.
Interment will follow in Rockland Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, P.O. Box 1000, Dept. 142, Memphis, TN 38148. Mr. Hunsberger realized the struggle with cancer was great for all, but even greater for children, and he was a long-time supporter of St. Jude Children’s Hospital.
Condolences to the family may be submitted online by visiting www.hilebest.com.