Dr. C. Darrel Sheraw, 70, of Sligo passed away on Thursday, March 27th 2014 at the Clarion Hospital, surrounded by his loving wife of 46 years, his two sons and their wives. Darrel was born May 25th, 1943 in Greensburg, PA. The son of Charles A. and Mildred Mae Hemminger Sheraw.

He was married on August 7, 1967 to Norma Krause, who survives in Sligo.

Darrel was an English professor at Clarion University for 35 years, joining the faculty in 1977. His first connection with Clarion did not begin with his teaching career, however. He first came to Clarion as an undergraduate student earning his bachelor’s degree. While there he was fortunate to have found a life changing mentor in Dr. Edward Grejda, who first recognized his love of teaching and ability to communicate his knowledge to others.

With Dr. Grejda’s encouragement he completed his Masters and Doctorate degrees at Ohio University. His teaching career began at Alliance College in Cambridge Springs, PA where he served as the department chair for seven years.

While there he started Studies in Contemporary Satire, which became the longest running academic satire journal. With Dr. Grejda’s encouragement, Darrel returned to his Alma Mater, Clarion, where he taught popular classes in mythology, comedy and satire, and his area of specialization: romantic poetry.

Darrel’s enthusiasm and energy throughout all 70 years allowed him to pursue his many interests and talents. He earned an 8th degree black belt and taught karate in the Clarion area for 20 years. He had an interest in raising and showing rare waterfowl, developing a new breed that is now officially recognized internationally. He wrote three books on waterfowl and was an international waterfowl judge, having judged events in four countries with his best friend of over 40 years, Curtis Oakes of Cochranton, PA. He was also an avid gardener of over 100 varieties of hostas, to name just one of his plant specialties.

One of Darrel’s greatest joys was collecting and restoring antiques. You could often find him at the local sales, antique stores and flea markets. He was always willing to share his vast knowledge and enjoyed helping others with many restoration projects.

Darrel easily formed friendships and influenced the lives of many. One of his colleagues once referred to him as a true Renaissance man, which never failed to bring a smile to his face. His sharp wit and lively sense of humor will be missed by all who knew him.

Darrel is also survived by his son’s Scott and Lynnette of York, PA; and Chris and Beki of Wappingers Falls, NY; also survived by a brother Dennis and his wife Gale Sheraw of the Virgin Islands. Proceeded in death by his parents.

The Robert V. Burns Funeral Home in Clarion is handling arrangements. A memorial service in his honor is being planned for a future date to be announced. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in his name to The Grejda Education Scholarship Endowment c/o Clarion University Foundation, Inc., Seifert-Mooney Center, Clarion University of PA, 840 Wood Street, Clarion, PA 16214.

Online condolences can be sent to the family at www.rvburnsfuneralhome.com.