Teddy Bear

Teddy Alan Bear, age 64, of New Philadelphia, went home to be with the Lord April 29, 2023 at Cleveland Clinic in Cleveland surrounded by his family and friends.

He was born on September 11, 1958 in Dennison, Ohio a son of Ann (Brokaw) Bear and the late Heywood Bear.

Ted was a graduate of Lakeland High School.  He was employed by Freeport Press while in high school and for several years following graduation.  For 25 years, he worked as a salesman for Jerry’s Auto Mart, Parkway Motors, and Ziegler Tire.  For the past eight years, he has been employed by New Philadelphia City Schools, Park Village Health Care Center and performed maintenance work for Tuscora Park.

Ted will forever be loved and remembered by his family and the many people lucky enough to call him a friend.  He was known for his witty and off-kilter comebacks and telling stories.

His most treasured time was spent being a dad and pappa.  He spent his lifetime volunteering for the Freeport Volunteer Fire Department, from fighting fires to cooking fish and working at the fireman’s fair.  He also enjoyed hunting, fishing, and quality time with family and friends at the cabin.  He was a member of the Christ United Methodist Church in Newcomerstown.

Ted leaves behind his wife of 26 years, Leighanna (Conley) Bear whom he married on February 14, 1997; daughter and son-in-law Alanna Jo and Mike Henderson; granddaughter, Ava Jolee; mother, Ann Bear; brothers, Tim (Penny) Bear, Jim (Tammy) Bear; sisters, Deb Milligan, Pat Bouska, Kim (Franklin Doolittle) Adkins, and Annette (Tim) Roth; along with many nieces and nephews.  He is also survived by many friends, including Mike “Doc” Ellis and lifelong friend of 64 years, Bill Bardall.

In addition to his father, Ted was preceded in death by his brother, Rick Bear; mother-in-law, Judi Conley; and brother-in-law, Jeff Milligan.

Family will greet friends from 5:00 – 7:00 PM on Wednesday, May 3, 2023 at New Philadelphia Quaker Dome, 142 24th Dr. NE New Philadelphia, Ohio 44663.    

The Linn-Hert-Geib Funeral Home & Crematory in New Philadelphia has been entrusted with Ted’s cremation care. 

Donations in Ted’s name may be made to the Freeport Volunteer Fire Department, 119 E. Main St. Freeport, OH 43973.