Gary Pfahler won a state title in 2008"It's the best feeling in the world," Pfahler told the Mirror after winning the state title. "It's better than any other match I've ever won, better than anything. It's something me and my family have always dreamed about since I was 4 years old. Got my gold medal. It's what I've worked for all year, endured for the last 13 years, and I finally got it. It was my last chance, and I had to go for it."
In discussing Pfahler's passing, his former coach at Chestnut Ridge, Jim Clark, said in an interview with the Mirror, "It's a tragedy for his family. It's obviously a very sad situation."
"(Pfahler) was a phenomenal competitor," Clark continued. "He had a very good combination of strength, agility and quickness. As a coach, it was really nice to see an athlete reach his ultimate goal in becoming a PIAA state champion.
"He was a very good team leader and inspired other kids to go above and beyond. He worked with the elementary program for a whole year and inspired a lot of kids to get better and work to achieve their goals. I know he really loved working with those little kids."
Tom Elling, award-winning journalist who covers the Pennsylvania wrestling scene, described Pfahler as a two-time PIAA state placer (placing 8th at 112 pounds in 2006 before winning the title two years later at 140) who was "a hard worker and tenacious."
In an interview with the Johnstown Tribune-Democrat , Joe Kimmel, who was the superintendent at Chestnut Ridge in 2008, remembered Pfahler as a "very personable kid. He was tough as nails on the wrestling mat and, I heard, off. But he was pleasant, courteous, respectful as anyone in the school setting. Very likeable and fun-loving."
After graduating from Chestnut Ridge, Pfahler served in the U.S. Marines until he was honorably discharged at the rank of Sergeant in 2013. He participated in at least one amateur mixed martial arts fight at VFL 42: Broad Avenue Brawlers on July 19, 2013. Pfahler lost on a decision to Scott Wilbe in a welterweight match at 162 pounds.
Gary Lee Pfahler, Jr. was born in Altoona on June 1, 1990. He is survived by his mother Lisa and stepfather Rick Mcdonnell, father Gary Lee Pfahler, Sr., five brothers and two sisters.
Visitation will take place at Crossroads Bible Church, 5564 US 220 Business, Bedford, Pa. on Friday, March 10 from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m., and on Saturday from 10-11 a.m. with funeral service to follow immediately after. Military Rites accorded by the Fort Bedford Honor Guard.
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