by Jeff Zidek, information specialist, Pennsylvania Harness Racing Commission

Washington, PA — Karl T. (Terry) Schoeffel, 67, the President of the Pennsylvania Fair Harness Horsemen’s Association and a longtime member of the USTA, died at home Dec. 23, 2010.

The son of the late Stanley and Mary (Purvis) Schoeffel, he was born May 4, 1943.

Mr. Schoeffel was an avid harness racing enthusiast as an owner since 1970. He was also licensed as a trainer/driver for eight years in the 1970s. He was a founding member of the PAFHHA, serving as its president since its inception three years ago.

He was a Fluid Power Engineer from Herr Voss Corporation and retired after 35 years in the steel industry, Mr. Schoeffel was also a member and former Secretary of the Hungarian Beneficial Society in Zelienople.

Above all, he made his family his priority, especially his grandchildren.

He is survived by his wife, Virginia “Ginny” (Kollek), whom he married February 17, 1962; children, Michael (Cathy), Richard (Cheryl), Stephen “Beaner” (Kathy), Laura Oldin (fiancée, Terry Altmeyer), and Christopher; grandchildren, Ashley (Steve) Hughes, Justin, Jessica, Michelle Avallone, Brian Sarver, Brett, Brooke, Nick Johnston, Kaitlyn Johnston, and Kylee; great-grandchildren, Braden Sarver and Landon Avallone; brother, Dr. Thomas (Debbie); and numerous nieces and nephews.

Stephen is an active trainer/driver at The Meadows, while Ginny and Kathy are active horse owners. Terry Altmeyer is an active trainer at The Meadows as well. Chris is a blacksmith at The Meadows.

In addition to his parents, Mr. Schoeffel was preceded in death by his brother, Samuel; and his granddaughter, Kirsten.

Friends will be received from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. on Sunday (Dec. 26) and from 1-4 p.m. on Monday (Dec. 27) at Boylan Funeral Home, Inc., of Evans City, 116 E. Main Street, Evans City. Funeral services wlll be at 4 p.m. on Monday (Dec. 27) at the funeral home.