Hyndman, PA – Alan E. Leister II, 48, of Hyndman, PA, passed away peacefully January 9, 2020, at UPMC Altoona Hospital, surrounded by his family. Having managed a rare case of MS/Devic’s Syndrome for 21 ½ years he surpassed a life expectancy of 7 years. He fought this disease diligently and courageously. He won the battle.

Born February 6, 1971, in Cumberland, MD; he was a son of Alan “Gene” and Janice “Pinky” (Barrett) Leister. Alan and Gene were best friends.

Alan was preceded in death by paternal grandparents, Elwood “Bill” and Audrey Leister; maternal grandparents, Nevin and Jeanett Barrett; mother and father-in-law, Karen (Dyer) and James “Doug” Flinn; a daughter, Hope C. Leister and nephew, Tyler S. Leister.

Alan was a 1989 graduate of Hyndman High School. Shortly after graduation Alan attended the carpentry apprenticeship program earning his certification as a journeyman. This was his dream job. He and his dad worked many jobs together and have always made the ultimate team. In June 1998 Alan became disabled. After 10 years of learning to manage and cope with his disease he re-entered the workforce at Sears in LaVale. Alan could talk with anyone and knew no stranger. In November 2017 fearing for the longevity of Sears, Alan started to work at Lowe’s. He worked there for 11 months until he was diagnosed with sepsis.

Alan was a faithful member of the Ridgley Church of Christ. He was a mighty Christian Soldier and had a deep relationship with Christ.

Besides his parents, Alan is survived by his wife of 31 years, Christina M. (Keith) Leister, whom he married December 17, 1988; daughter, Dr. Alyssa G. Bartlett and husband Travis of Hedgesville, WV; brother, Shawn Leister and wife Shelly of Hyndman, niece, Shania Emerick and husband Tyler of Hyndman, Abragale Keith of Cumberland, Will and Baylee Keith of Illinois; great niece, Charlie Emerick, and grandchildren whom he adored, Sawyer and Rhys Alan Bartlett, he felt no greater joy than to be the Poppy of these two. Also by his two faithful pups, Bella and Mr. Roo.

Friends will be received at the Harvey H. Zeigler Funeral Home, Inc., 169 Clarence Street, Hyndman on Friday January 17, 2020 from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m.

A funeral service will be conducted at the funeral home on Saturday January 18, 2020 at 2 p.m. with the Evangelist Charles Kerns officiating. A dinner celebrating his life will be held immediately following the service at the Hyndman Volunteer Fire Hall.

Burial will be private at Mt. Lebanon Cemetery, Glencoe, PA.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made Hyndman Rescue Squad, PO Box 465, Hyndman, PA 15545.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.zeiglerfuneralhome.com.