Robert “Dan” Ainscough, 74, Mechanicsburg, passed away on Friday, Jan. 28, 2022.
He was born in Altoona, son of Robert and Lillie (Showalter) Ainscough. In 1971, he married Judith Adams of Altoona. They celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in April 2021. They have two children, Jennifer Ainscough and Scott Ainscough of Mechanicsburg; a grandson, Miles Ainscough of Mechanicsburg, and their canine companion, Manny.
Dan graduated from Altoona High School in 1965, received his Bachelor’s degree in psychology in 1969 and completed his Master’s degree in Rehabilitation Counseling in 1970 from Penn State University. He received a certificate in administration from the U.S. Army in 1971. He retired from the Pennsylvania Department of Aging as Director of Administrative Services in 2007, after 28 years of public service. He also started and directed The Blair County Office of Services for the Aging in 1974 before taking a position with the PA Dept. of Aging in Harrisburg in 1979.
He served on active duty in the U.S. Army’s Adjutant General Corps as a personal psychologist from 1971-73 in El Paso, Texas. He was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in 1969 from the ROTC program at Penn State University. He was honorably discharged as captain in 1973. Dan was awarded the Joint Services Accommodation Medal in 1973. He is a member of the Mechanicsburg American Legion.
Dan enjoyed all sports. He played varsity baseball in high school and varsity baseball and basketball at the Penn State Campus in Altoona. He was also a musician, playing trumpet for various bands in the Altoona area, most notably the “Charlie Lockard Orchestra.” Dan always enjoyed working with and training dogs and was an active enthusiast. He competed in AKC events that included obedience, confirmation, agility lure coursing and judging. He also taught dog obedience classes and gave seminars on dog training for many years. All of his dogs were certified by Therapy Dogs International and frequently visited schools, hospitals and nursing homes. He also enjoyed fishing and boating whenever he had the opportunity.
Surviving are his mother, Lillie Ainscough of Hollidaysburg; his wife, Judith, and their children, Jennifer and Scott Ainscough; a grandson, Miles; his sister, Cynda Rehm of Altoona; and his niece and nephew.
Per Dan’s wishes, he will be cremated and a private reunion of his family will celebrate his life at a place and time to be determined. There will be no viewing or services. Notes of condolences may be sent to 1017 Wintergreen Drive, Mechanicsburg, PA 17050.
In lieu of flowers or gifts, please consider donating or volunteering at your local Area Agency on Aging, the Humane Society or the American Heart Association.
