Harold L. Gebhard

Harold L. Gebhard, loving husband and best friend to his loving wife, Lelia Capps Gebhard, passed away into the loving arms of his Savior on Thurs., July 27, 2017.

Harold was born and reared in Bainbridge, Lancaster County, Pa., to Harry L. and Esther Shellenberger Gebhard. He grew up in Bainbridge as one of six children- three boys and three girls. He was a member and attended Olive Baptist Church, Pensacola. Harold proudly served his country for 23 ½ years in the U.S. Air Force, followed by 33 years of service to the U.S. Postal Service. During his military career he earned his bachelor’s degree from Black Hills State. He was a Master Mason, a 32nd degree Mason and a member of Hadji Shrine. Harold’s many military awards and commendations include the Bronze Star, Meritorious Service Medals (2), Commendations Medals (4), Vietnam Cross of Gallantry, Vietnam service Medal, National Defense Medals (2), Presidential Unit Citation, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Small Arms Expert Marksmanship, Air Force Longevity Service Awards (6) and nine Good Conduct Medals. Harold loved his country and volunteered and served in Vietnam. He had a distinguished and rewarding career serving his country in the USAF and the U. S. Postal Service.

His parents and a brother, Herman T. Gebhard, preceded him in death.

Harold is survived by his forever friend and love, his wife, Lelia, of Pensacola. They shared 63 wonderful years of marriage together. He is also survived by his sisters, Helen Gramm, Hazel Chapin (David), Mount Joy, Pa., and Hilma Mumma (Clay) of Lancaster, Pa.; his brother, Howard (Beth) of Ephrata, Pa.; sister-in-law, Katherine Gebhard of Manheim, Pa.; many loving nieces, nephews and friends.

Funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m., Tues., Aug. 1, 2017, at Faith Chapel Funeral Home North with a visitation one hour prior to the service. Dr. Stan Lewis will officiate. Interment will follow at Barrancas National Cemetery.

The family request in lieu of flowers, if you desire, donations may be made to Covenant Hospice, 12th Avenue, Pensacola FL

FAITH CHAPEL FUNERAL HOME NORTH, 1000 S Hwy 29, Cantonment, FL is entrusted with the arrangements. You may express your condolences online at www.fcfhs.com.