Norman Barefoot

N. Fred Barefoot, 88, of Hollidaysburg, Pa., passed away at his home on October 7, 2021, after a brief illness.

Born November 9, 1932, to George and Edythe (Duganne) Barefoot, who preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by his brother Richard Barefoot, sister Nila (Barefoot) Capaccio and grandchildren Travis, Nicholas and Zoe.

Fred is survived by his high school sweetheart and wife of nearly 69 years, Patricia (Hilling) Barefoot. Fred was the father of three children - Kimberlee Barefoot Johnnie (Buck Yingling); Tamara Barefoot Over (who preceded him in death); and Brett Barefoot. Fred, who was lovingly called Pop Pop is also survived by Grandchildren: Angelina (Johnnie) Jackson, Zackary Over and Rikki (Erb), Jacob Over, Lucas and Meaghan (Piper) Over, Maxwell Barefoot and Violet Yingling; Great grandchildren: Dylan, Deven, Kassidee and Zaylah; and Great-great children: Miles, Kaden, JaeLyne and Landon.

Fred was a 1950 graduate of Hollidaysburg Area High School where he served as President and Valedictorian of his class and a 1954 graduate of Juniata College. After college, Fred accepted a teaching position at his alma mater, Hollidaysburg Area High School, were he taught American History and Government for 40 years. Fred also served as an assistant wrestling coach for a number of years before he took over as head wrestling coach. Fred successfully coached numerous PIAA District Wrestling Champions, as well as three PIAA State Wrestling Champions - Artie Fink, Dan Brenneman and Wade Schalles (who went on to achieve national and international awards). At a banquet in honor of Schalles a few years ago, Wade thanked Fred for his coaching, guidance and advice over the years. Fred was extremely proud and very fond of his wrestling team members and their accomplishments.

After retiring, Fred served as a Legislative Assistant for State Representative Rick Geist for many years.

Fred was a member and officer of the Pennsylvania State Education Association; a member and officer of the Hollidaysburg Area Education Association; a member and officer of the PIAA Wrestling Coaches Association; and a wrestling official for the PIAA, where he was honored to be asked to referee the Pennsylvania state wrestling championships. Fred also received a number of awards from the PSEA, HAEA, and PIAA Coaches Association and was awarded recognition of Wrestling Coach of the Year.

Fred and Patti were members of the 28th Street Church of the Brethren in Altoona where he served as a Deacon for a number of years.

Fred loved spending time with his family, his extended Hilling family, reading historical and western novels and watching John Wayne movies and Gunsmoke reruns.

In lieu of flowers, contributions made by made in his honor to Mending Hearts Animal Rescue and/or St. Jude's Children's Hospital.

A memorial service may be held by the family at a later date.

PA Simple Cremation is assisting the family with arrangements.

To leave an online condolence, visit www.pasimplecremation.com