BRACKEN - Gale “Elwood,” 97, of Nanty Glo, passed away January 23, 2026, at the Hollidaysburg Veterans’ Home. Born October 24, 1928, in Cambria County, son of the late David and Alice (Edwards) Bracken. He was preceded in death by his wife, Dolores Ann “Dot” (Dishong) Bracken, and brother, Monroe “Pete” Bracken. Elwood is survived by his son, Roger (Donna Shirk) Bracken, Nanty Glo, and daughter, Roxanne Schnell, Harrisburg. Also surviving are grandchildren: Troy (Kelly) Bracken, Brianne (Brad) Lehigh, Clint (Sarah) Schnell, Kristin (Gary) Bigam, and great-grandchildren: Kade Lehigh, Jase Bigam, and Bryson Bigam. He is also survived by sister, Pauline Canter, and many Bracken and Dishong family members. Elwood was a veteran of the Korean War, serving in the U.S. Marine Corps. He achieved the rank of Corporal and was awarded the Korean Service Medal with two stars and the United Nations Medal. He was a horse enthusiast, attending horse shows over the years in support of Roger and Roxanne. He and Dot could always be found at a local horse show supporting and cheering on all the exhibitors. Elwood served as President of both the Silver Shoe Rodeo Club and the Clyde Saddle Club. The family attended the Cambria County Fair with their horses for over 40 years, during which time, Elwood served as the horse show announcer. He enjoyed snowmobiling with his close friends. Elwood had a knack for picking out good used cars and fixing old washers, driers, and lawn tractors. He took pleasure in mowing grass and plowing snow with a tractor he’d repaired. One of Elwood and Dot’s greatest loves was spending time socializing with family and close friends. A favorite pastime was camping with the grandkids and attending the Dishong family campouts. Above all else, Elwood loved his wife, Dot, and his Lord God. The epitome of a wonderful Christian, Elwood put his faith into action and led by example. Elwood was the oldest member of Pike Grace Brethren Church. A Memorial Service is planned for a later date, with interment with his beloved wife at Pike Brethren Cemetery. Arrangements are in the care of the Askew-Houser Funeral Homes, Inc., Nanty Glo. Condolences to the family may be left at www.askew-houser.com.

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