Elaine Heider

Elaine Heider, 93, of Westmont, died peacefully on September 10, 2024. Born September 26, 1930 in McKeesport, PA, daughter of Emmanuel Fronis and Mary Lekas Fronis. Preceded in death by her parents, husband George L. Heider, sister Janice Fronis, grandson Marcus George Heider, and great grandson William David Fennell. Survived by children, Mary Elizabeth (Kenneth Daher) of Kennebunkport , ME,  David E. (Nancy Plummer) of Ligonier, Gregory G. (Jennifer Greenlee) of Johnstown, and Matthew J. (Stacy Granda) of Johnstown. Grandchildren, George Koontz (Natalie); Katherine Koontz; David J. Heider (Lauren), Lindsay Fennell (William), Jordan C. Heider (Rileigh); Matthew (Alexis), Michael, Mason, and Madison Heider of Johnstown; Gregory, Jonathon, Daniel Heider of Johnstown; and five great-grandchildren.

Elaine was a businesswoman, artist, educator, and philanthropist. She proudly worked alongside her husband and three sons at their family-owned business, Sportsman’s Inc., specializing in school athletic equipment. Prior to her time at Sportsman’s, she was an educator. Elaine was known for her artistic talents and was a charter member of the Community Arts Center of Cambria County. In 2016, Elaine was honored by the Community Arts Center, receiving the Arts Patron Award for actively nurturing the development of the center from the time of its infancy. She held various roles serving community organizations such as the Westmont Borough Council and Women’s Help Center.

Elaine was a proud member of St. Mary Antiochian Orthodox Church and a life member of the Order of St. Ignatius. She held various board positions within her religious community including on the Antiochian Village Council and Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America. Her generosity helped to fund the writing of numerous icons, as well as scholarships for clergy and youth within the church.

She was a loving wife, mother, and grandmother and will be greatly missed.

Funeral Services were held on Friday, September 13, 2024 at St. Mary Antiochian Orthodox Church.

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