Ardel Morgan

HOWLAND - Ardel Morgan died April 23, 2014, at his home surrounded by his family. He was born on April 28, 1917 in Allister, WV to the late Ransel and Bonnie (McAllister) Morgan. Ardel was raised in Moundsville, WV, where his family owned a grocery store. He spent summers on his grandparents' farm with a loving extended family. Ardel had one younger brother, Melville Morgan, with whom he remained close with until Melville's passing in 2000.

He married his life-long love Barbara Ellen (Knowlton) Morgan in 1941 and enjoyed 72 years of a truly loving partnership. Ardel and Barbara raised three children: Scott (Kay) Morgan, Ellen (Jim) Morgan Dieter Cufr, and Beverly (Tom) Morgan Wood. Beverly Morgan Wood and son-in law, Gary Dieter preceded Ardel in death.

Ardel enjoyed his children and was immensely proud of each of them and their families. Ardel was a devoted grandfather to his six grandchildren: Beth Morgan, Paul Dieter, Melissa Morgan, Jennifer Griffith, Justin Wood and Jarrod Wood; his nine great-grandchildren; and step great-granddaughter. Ardel was also a loving uncle to his nieces and nephews.

Ardel served his country in the US Army (1941-1945) during WWII, retiring as a Captain. Upon returning from the war, Ardel entered the home building business and founded the McAllister and Morgan Lumber Company in 1946 with his uncle, Clair McAllister. Ardel managed the business until his retirement.

Ardel was active in his community his entire life as a member of numerous clubs, committees and boards. He was a thoughtful and exuberant man; fully engaged in living life to the fullest. Ardel loved learning. He sought out challenges and became a skilled airplane pilot, motorboat captain and excelled at many competitive word games. Ardel enjoyed engaging in rich conversations with children and adults and set an example by truly listening, learning and, from time to time modifying his views. He believed in personal responsibility and tolerance of others. His family reflects his acceptance of gender, race and religious differences. He was deeply loved and will be dearly missed.

The family wishes to thank the kind and caring nurses and staff of MVI Hospice Care, and the many friends for their loving support.

Anyone desiring to make a material tribute may do so to the Children's Rehabilitation Center, 885 Howland-Wilson Road NE, Warren, Ohio 44484; Howland Community Church, 198 Niles-Cortland Rd SE, Warren, Ohio 44484; or the charity of your choice.

The family will receive friends from 10:30 am - 12:00 pm on Saturday, April 26, 2014 at the Howland Community Church, 198 Niles-Cortland Rd. SE, Warren. A Memorial Service will follow at 12:00 pm with Reverend Brian Byrne officiating. Private inurnment will be at Crown Hill Burial Park, Vienna.

Arrangements are entrusted to McFarland and Son Funeral and Cremation Services Co, 271 North Park Avenue, Warren, OH 44481, 330-393-9621. Please visit www.McFarlandCares.com to view this obituary, send condolences, and order flowers.

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