Richard H Black

Richard H. "Dick" Black, 71, of Altoona, died late Thursday at Altoona Hospital. He was born in Altoona, son of the late Hugh G. and S. Carolyn (Stamm) Black. He married Lucinda A. Hall on August 7, 1997, in Red Lodge, Montana. Surviving are his wife Lucinda; three children: a son Bruce A. Black of Altoona, a daughter Heather C. Black of Hopewell, a daughter Heidi E. Black of Alexandria, VA; three grandchildren: Alexa, Cameron, and Jillian of Hopewell, PA; and a cousin Jim Houser and his wife Susan of State College, PA. Dick retired as a teacher from Altoona School District in 1993 after over 331/2 years of service. He began his career at Logan Junior High and finished his tenure at Roosevelt Junior High School. Over the years, he coached both football and track and field. Dick was a graduate of Altoona High School, and then went further to earn a Bachelor's degree from Penn State University, at which time he served in the Navy ROTC. He then pursued a graduate degree and began graduate work at the University of Southern Illinois, and finished earning his Master's of Earth Science Degree from Penn State University. He was an Eagle Scout, enjoyed golfing, and was an avid fisherman and hunter. He loved the outdoors, and particularly enjoyed spending time in Montana. He was a lifetime member and past president of Hilltop Camp in Diamond Valley, and was a social member of the Juniata VFW. Friends can join with family for a celebration of Dick's life, which will be from 2PM to 5PM on Saturday, February 27, 2010, at the Juniata V.F.W. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Montana Wildlife Federation, 5530 North Montana Ave., Helena, MT, 59602-6839.