William R. Hardy

He was born on December 2, 1947 to William R. Hardy and Lena Boyd Hardy in Waynesburg, PA. He was a 1965 graduate of Beth-Center Senior High School, where he played basketball and baseball. After graduation, he attended California State Teachers College. Wilbur also received his bachelors of science degree from California State University of Pennsylvania in 1999.

He moved to Cleveland, OH, where he got a job at Alcola Aluminum as a furnace tender. He served our country in the U.S. Navy and was stationed at Andrews Airforce Base in aircraft maintenance. He also served in the Honor Guard and participated in the inauguration of President Richard Nixon. After his military service, he and a good friend opened up a clothing store in California, PA called The Spectrum Boutique. Eventually, he got a job working at Clyde Mine in Fredericktown, PA as a timberman and mechanic. He moved to Florida and started working at The Randy Lakel Law Firm in Tampa, FL as a special assistant and office manager. He returned to PA and continued his education at California University of PA, graduating with an Associate Science degree in 1995. He returned to the workforce and got a job working for Accellent Inc. in Houston, PA as a CNC operator until he retired due to health reasons. Wilbur also received his bachelors of science degree from California State University of Pennsylvania in 1999.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his dad, John Kosuh, sister-in-law, Gay L. Clelland; and nephew, Ben Hardy.

He is survived by his brother, Don Hardy of Waynesburg, PA; sister, Carol Porter (John) of Bridgeport, WV; nephews, D.J. Hardy (Chelsea) of Morgantown, WV, Josh Pierce (Casey) of Fairmont, WV, Matt Pierce (Shelby) of Farmington, WV, and Cody Porter (Paige) of Bridgeport, WV; a lifelong friend of over 55 years, Doug Morris of Clarksville PA and several great-nieces and great-nephews - all of WV.

A memorial with full military honors will be held at a later date.

Behm Funeral Home of Waynesburg entrusted with arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Will's name may be made to Disabled American Veterans (help.dav.org), The Gary Sinise Foundation (garysinisefoundation.org) or the charity of your choice.