John Lewis Rishel

John Lewis Rishel, 88, of Greencastle, PA, passed away on Tuesday, July 13, 2021 at Upper Valley Medical Center in Troy, OH.  

Born April 11, 1933 in Bellefonte, PA, he was the son of Gerald E. and Mary (Hazel) Rishel. 

He was a graduate of State College High School in 1951.  He was a veteran of the United States Navy, having served during the Korean War.  He graduated from Lock Haven State College in 1961.  He taught at Greencastle Antrim High School for 28 years, retiring in 1991.  During his tenure at GAHS, he started the men’s cross-country team, coached track and field, and was the athletic director for 16 years. After retirement, he continued to officiate both high school and collegiate track and field.   

He was an active member in the Greencastle community as well as being a member of the State College High School Alumni Association. John was a longtime member of the Lions Club and was a member of the Grace United Church of Christ. He also served as the president of elections for his precinct for many years.  

He was preceded in death by his wife, Barbara A. (Reekie) Rishel; brothers, Robert J. Rishel and Gerald Rishel; and grandson, Justin Leninsky. He is survived by his son Lew (Candace) Rishel Jr.; daughter, Mary Anne (Robert) Leninsky; granddaughters Emily and Rebecca Leninsky; and a number of nieces and nephews.  

A graveside memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m., Tuesday, July 20, 2021 at Rose Hill Cemetery in Altoona, PA. Pastor Richard Wesley will officiate the service. Local arrangements are being handled by Baird Funeral Home in Troy. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be given in John’s name to Greencastle-Antrim Education Foundation (www.gaefonline.org).  Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.bairdfuneralhome.com.