Algernon B. Rager, 1938-2019

Al was born April 16, 1938, in Petersburg, the son of the late Algernon M. and Hazel I. Beight Rager.

Al was a graduate of Springfield High class of 1956. He was a veteran of the Marine Corps, having served his country honorably.

He was the loving husband to the former Margaret Kay McPheeters, whom he married Oct. 14, 1961; sadly, she passed this year.

Al was a truck driver by profession and had, after the war, worked for Herriott Trucking, Schneider Trucking, and drove for the Schwebel Company, where he also served as safety coordinator up to his retirement. Al was a member of the teamsters and the 3 million mile club.

After retirement, Al was a driving instructor for the Kingston driving school and held a specials needs certification to teach. He honorably served as a Mason and was affiliated with the East Palestine Lodge. He was a faithful servant to his church, St. John Lutheran in Petersburg, where he served in several capacities.

Al enjoyed classic cars, bowling and tinkering as the family handyman, but his family was his greatest joy.

He leaves behind his children, Rochelle “Shelly” (Thomas) Dilworth of Petersburg and A. Scott (Christine) Rager of Shaker Heights; sister L. Sue Davison of Enon Valley, Pa.; grandchildren Olivia Orolin of Petersburg, and Elias Rager and Kalen Rager, both of Shaker Heights; and step-grandchildren Ryan Dilworth and Lauren Dilworth of East Palestine.

Al was preceded in death by his parents; wife Kay; and brother Gene.

Visitation will be held 2:30 to 5 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 19, 2019, at St. John Lutheran Church in Petersburg. A 5 p.m. service will follow, under the direction of the Rev. Erin Burns, and will conclude with a Masonic service.

Burial will be private Wednesday morning in the Petersburg cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests monetary donations to the St. John Lutheran Church current fund.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Terry A. Cunningham Funeral Home, Bessemer, Pa.

(special notice)