Sydney "Syd" T. Atherton

ATHERTON, SYDNEY T. “Syd”, 78, Northern Cambria, passed away May 13, 2023, at UPMC Shadyside following complications from a recent diagnosis of Myasthenia Gravis.  Born November 16, 1944, at Miners Hospital in Spangler, the son of Sydney and Annie (Wood) Atherton.  Preceded in death by parents; infant brothers; in-laws, Ernie & Minnie Whited; brother-in-law, Chuck Whited.  Survived by loving wife of 57 years, Sandra (Whited) Atherton; daughters, Tracey, wife of Darin Clipper, Morganton, GA; Jackie, wife of Greg Bernard, Duncansville; Erin, wife of Travis Lingafelt, Altoona; grandchildren, Kaitlyn (Charlie), Sydney, Madison (Trent), Noah (Ally), Alec, Deklan, and Adelaide; and great-grandchildren, Emersyn and Charlotte, with another expected soon.  Also survived by numerous brothers and sisters-in-law (Tim & Mary Beth Whited, Becky & Dave Warfield, Tina & Brett Wilt, Kathy and Bill Smith) and nieces and nephews.  US Air Force Veteran and member of Barnesboro American Legion Post 508 and VFW Post 343.  Syd retired after 40 years working various positions for Penelec, beginning as a lineman in 1969 and ending as a foremen for the company in 2009, always dedicated to his work and co-workers.  Not a man to be idle, he then worked at Med Van Transport until his passing.  A man strong in his faith, he was a member of St. Paul Presbyterian Church where he served as Clerk of Sessions and an Elder.  Active in his community, Syd was a life member and Trustee of Hope Fire Company, the Cambria County Fireman’s Association, Central District Fireman’s Association, the area Jaycees and Smokey Valley Sportsman’s Club.  He was an avid outdoorsman spending free time fishing, hunting, and shooting.  He enjoyed the fellowship of his friends as a member of the Rembrandt Club and South Fork Rifle Club.  He took pleasure in lively morning coffee at Lin’s Sunoco.  Syd will be fondly remembered for his trademark greeting to friends: “What’s up Buttercup” or “How are you Tiger”.  Syd was a lifelong learner.  He was curious about history, aviation, and nature.  Syd was adventurous, willing to try new hobbies.  In his 30’s he began skiing and scuba diving.  He enjoyed riding his motorcycle or cruising with Sandy in his little red convertible.  Always ready to help, Syd was known for his uncommon kindness and quick smile.  Syd was a longtime blood donor.  During his recent treatment, the gift of his blood donation became evident when he received numerous blood and plasma infusions.  Syd was a true patriot, proud of his country and our democracy.  Above all, Syd was a conservative Christian, loving husband, “Daddy” and “Poppy” always making his faith and family top priorities.  Family and Friends will be received from 4:00 – 8:00 p.m. Saturday, June 3, 2023, at Moriconi Funeral Home, Inc., Northern Cambria with military honors at 4:00 p.m.   A Funeral Service will be held at 3:00 p.m. Sunday, June 4, 2023, at St. Paul Presbyterian Church.  Reverend Marty Cartmell officiating.  Please consider donating blood or plasma in Syd’s honor.  If you are so moved, donations may be made in Syd’s memory to St. Paul Presbyterian Church, 1006 Chestnut Ave, Northern Cambria, PA 15714 or Hope Fire Company 1021 Philadelphia Avenue, Northern Cambria, PA 15714. 

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