Dana Joye Larimer

Dana Joye (Hoovler) Larimer, 97, of Brookville, PA, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, at her home.
Dana was born on December 21, 1928, to the late Clarence N. and Louella M. (Handy) Hoovler in the small, remote oilfield community of Gusher—also known locally as Cooper Tract—in Howe Township, Forest County, Pennsylvania. This modest settlement, part of the historic Pennsylvania oil region and once associated with the short-lived boom village of Gusher City, was near Sheffield, where she later graduated from Sheffield High School with the Class of 1946.
She continued her education at Clarion Teachers College (now Pennsylvania Western University) and earned a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education in 1950. Shortly thereafter, on June 24, 1950, Dana married the love of her life, Harold Gilbert Larimer. They shared a wonderful life together for 63 years, enjoying many of the same interests such as square dancing, playing cards with friends, golfing, traveling, and countless other activities. They were the epitome of a loving, devoted couple.
She served as librarian at Hickory Grove Elementary School in Brookville for 21 years until her retirement. Her passion for books created a lasting legacy; many of her former students, now adults, credit her with igniting their lifelong love of reading. One can only imagine the profound ripple effect this had on their educational journeys and professional successes, and the pure joy of reading for personal pleasure and entertainment. She possessed an incredible talent for art and had the imagination to go with it, creating fun, artful themes that would transform the entire library. On one occasion, her creative artwork turned the library into a make-believe aquarium.
Dana was a longtime member of Mt. Tabor Presbyterian Church in Sigel, PA, where she served for a time as Clerk of Session. Beyond her impactful career, she was a creative and active individual who enjoyed many hobbies over her lifetime, including canvas oil painting, basket weaving, and golf. She relished having the good fortune of achieving the rare feat of once making a hole-in-one.
Harold Larimer preceded her in death on February 25, 2013. Dana is survived by two sons, Gary Larimer and Stanley (Pamela) Larimer; four grandchildren; and fourteen great-grandchildren. In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by her daughter, Mona Snyder, in 2022 at the age of 66.
Most of all, Dana is remembered by extended family and friends as a truly exceptional person who treated everyone with kindness and respect. At home, her love and commitment to her husband and children were limitless. She also knew through their words and actions that she was loved and appreciated as much as is humanly possible. We know she is now with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and her family confidently anticipates our one-day Heavenly reunion.
Following Dana’s wishes, there will be no public services. Memorial contributions may be made in her name to the Rebecca M. Arthur Memorial Library, 223 Valley Street, Brookville, PA 15825. Arrangements have been entrusted to the McKinney – d’Argy Funeral Home, 345 Main Street, Brookville, PA 15825.