Elishah “Eli” J. Veach, 18, of Hopewell, PA; passed away unexpectedly from an aneurysm on Sunday, January 11, 2026 at UPMC Presbyterian Hospital. He was born on August 13, 2007 at UPMC Bedford Memorial Hospital; a son of James A. and Marcy A. (Haynal) Veach of Hopewell.
Along with his parents, he is survived by a sister Abigail M. Veach married to Cody Frantz; nephews Branston Gordon and Colson Frantz; maternal grandmother Anne Haynal, girlfriend Shelvia, several aunts, uncles, cousins, friends and his best friend, Ben.
He was preceded in death by his grandparents Paul “Jim” and Elaine Veach and Robert “Bob” Haynal.
Eli was a member of the Hopewell Grace Church, expressing his love for Jesus Christ in a baptism summer of 2025.
He was a graduate of Northern Bedford County High School Class of 2025 and was currently enrolled in CPI for heavy equipment operator, recently receiving his CDL’s. Eli enjoyed nature, fishing, hunting, particularly pheasant hunting with his dad and his faithful Beegle Callie. He was a WWII enthusiast, and enjoyed collecting memorabilia.
He stood out in a crowd, dressed in his cowboy shirts, boots and cowboy hat. He was drawn to the Rocky Mountains and the cowboy way of life and had planned to move to Wyoming after completion of school. He loved rodeos, trains, tractor pulling with his antique tractor and flying. He recently passed his pilot written exam and was taking flight lessons.
Eli enjoyed traveling as well, having the goal of visiting all 50 states before age of 20, but actually accomplished 46 before his untimely passing. He was an interesting young man, people were drawn to him, he enjoyed talking to people of all ages and many couldn’t believe his wide range of knowledge on various topics. He brought so much joy to others.
Friends and family will be received on Friday, January 16, 2026 at the Akers Funeral Home, Inc., 299 Raystown Road, Everett from 4-9 P.M. and on Saturday from 10:00 A.M. until the hour of service at the funeral home.
Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, January 17, 2026 at 11:00 A.M. in the Chapel at Akers Funeral Home with Pastor Mark Lingenfelter officiating.
To send flowers
to the family, please visit our floral store.