Mary Jane Althouse, 89, of Mohnton, peacefully passed away Tuesday, Nov. 21, 2017, at home.

She was born in West Cocalico Township to the late Alvin and Laura (Moyer) Schannauer, and was the wife of Earl W. Althouse, with whom she shared 70 years of marriage.

She was a member of Allegheny Evangelical Lutheran Church and Alleghenyville Grange. She enjoyed playing cards with friends, fishing at the shore in Delaware, and babysitting, especially her beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She also was an avid collector of local artisans’ work.

Before retiring, Mary worked as a jewelry sales consultant for Service Merchandise. In her early years, she worked at the Berkshire Knitting Mills.

In addition to her husband, Mary is survived by two sons: John Althouse, husband of Betsy, of Galen Hall; and Harry Althouse of Galeton; two daughters: Jane, wife of Dennis Kohl, of Knauers, and Ruth, wife of Joseph Malone, also of Knauers; eight grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by three brothers: William, Daniel, and Harry Schannauer; and a sister: Irene Hummel.

A private graveside interment will take place in the Alleghenyville Union Church Cemetery. A memorial service at 10 a.m. with visitation of family, and friends at 9 a.m. will be held on Saturday, Dec. 23, at Allegheny Evangelical Lutheran Church, 1327 Alleghenyville Road, Mohnton, with Pastor Tom Reinsel officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to honor Mary may be donated to her church for the mortgage fund: Allegheny Evangelical Lutheran Church, 1327 Alleghenyville Road, Mohnton, PA 19540

Arrangements by Roseboro Stradling Funeral & Cremation Services, Inc., Denver. Online condolences can be given at roseborostradling.com.

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Thomas A. Shank, 54, Ephrata, died Sunday, Dec. 3, 2017, in Ephrata Community Hospital.

Born in Lititz, he was a son of Doris Hershey, Lititz, and Carl F. Shank, The Villages, Fla.

Tom was an auto detailer with Keller Brothers, Lebanon. He was a Redskins football fan and an avid NASCAR enthusiast, especially Dale Earnhardt Sr.

Surviving in addition to his parents is his wife of 19 years: Tammy S. (Franck) Shank; and his sister: Amy J. Shank, Lancaster.

A celebration of Thomas’ life will be held on Saturday, Dec. 9, at 3 p.m., from Akron United Zion Church, 31 S. 10th St., Akron, with Rev. Kenneth Redcay officiating.

Rather than flowers, remember Tom with contributions to the American Heart Association, 310 Community Way, Lancaster, PA 17603; and the American Diabetes Association, 2451 Crystal Drive #900, Arlington, PA 22202.

Good Funeral Home & Cremation Centre, Reamstown, is honored to be assisting the family. Condolences and memories may be shared at goodfuneral.com.

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Clarence “Sonny” Hartranft went to be with the Lord on Nov. 27, 2017.

He was the oldest son of the late Lloyd and Emma (Sweigart) Hartranft.

He served in the Navy in the 1950s on the Destroyer the U.S.S. Turner as a cook and a gunny. He also worked at W.W. Moyer and Gerber for 30 plus years until they closed. Prior to retiring, he then worked for Quinlan Pretzel for several years until they closed.

He was a life brother and member of the Denver Oriole’s Nest for many years, where he also served as past president. He also belonged to the Reinholds VFW and Reamstown Athletic Association. He enjoyed going to the races and spending time in the mountains.

He is survived by a son: Eugene Hartranft; a daughter: Teresa (Keith) Buchter, both of Ephrata; two stepchildren: Paul Ferretti and JoAnna Rupert; three grandchildren; five step-grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren. Also surviving are two brothers: Fred (Darlene) of Denver, Jimmy (Arlene) of Ephrata; three sisters: Maryjane Garmen of Ephrata, Beverly (John) Zartman of Newmanstown, and Ruthie Hartranft of Allentown.

He was preceded in death by his wife: June; a brother: Lloyd “Linky”; two sisters: Helen “Doll” Musser and Fern Pfautz; and a great-granddaughter.

Service details will be published at a later date.

Arrangements by Roseboro Stradling Funeral & Cremation Services, Inc., Denver. Online condolences can be given at roseborostradling.com.

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Kenneth Ray Weaver, 76, of Akron, went to meet his Heavenly Father on Wednesday, Nov. 29, 2017.

He was born Oct. 6, 1941, in Martindale, to the late Isaac B. and Anna (Zoll) Weaver. He married Esther L. (Hess) Weaver September 22, 1962. They were married for over 55 years.

He was a member of Calvary Church, Landis Valley Road, Lancaster. After being on two mission trips to Russia, he was drawn to a church with a focus on missions.

Ken was a bookkeeper for Hess Eggs for 37 years; Weaver Nut Company for seven years; and Martin’s Chair in New Holland for 14 years.

He graduated from Garden Spot High School, Class of 1959. One of his highlights was receiving a diploma from the Dale Carnegie Course. He grew up with baseball, playing in many church leagues and enjoyed watching college and NFL football.

Ken and Esther enjoyed traveling, in addition to Russia, they visited Hawaii twice, the Bahamas three times, Jamaica twice, Cancun, St. Thomas and several US states. He also enjoyed mapping out and organizing numerous bus trips for the Ephrata Mennonite Church. Ken was an avid reader of western and suspense novels.

Ken had that award-winning smile, especially for his grandchildren. They were a special part of his life.

In addition to his wife, Ken is survived by three children: K. Scott Weaver at home; Christina, wife of Scott Wanner of Akron; Suzanne, wife of Jim Steely of New Cumberland; a daughter-in-law: Cyndi Weaver of Narvon; 10 grandchildren: Michael Foltz; Sheena Kloppenberg; Christie, Nicole and Ben Weaver; Derek, Zachary, Rebecca and Joshua Wanner; James Steely; seven great-grandchildren; two brothers: Robert I., husband of Linda L. Weaver of East Earl; Jay R., husband of Linda S. Weaver of Denver; and a brother-in-law: J. Clair High of Stevens.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a son: Dean Weaver; a grandson: Nathan Nixdorf; a brother: Larry L. Weaver; and two sisters: June Weaver and Shirley High.

Services were held Dec. 4 at Calvary Church, Lancaster, with Pastor Woody Woodcock officiating. Interment took place in the Metzler Mennonite Cemetery.

Memorial contributions in Kenneth’s memory may be made to Hospice & Community Care, P. O. Box 4125, Lancaster, PA, 17604; or Calvary Church, 1051 Landis Valley Road, Lancaster, PA, 17601.

Arrangements by Roseboro Stradling Funeral & Cremation Services, Inc., Denver. Online condolences can be given at roseborostradling.com.

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Elizabeth “Lisa” Zoll, 63, of Ephrata, passed away on Sunday, Dec. 10, 2017, at home.

She was born in Brownstown to Ismael and Eugenia (Colon) Burgos of Ephrata, and was the wife of Clarence L. Zoll, with whom she shared 39 years of marriage.

Lisa was an administrative assistant for CNH New Holland for the past 40 years. She enjoyed cross-stitching, traveling, and shopping with her sisters. She also like to play games on her Kindle.

In addition to her husband and parents, Lisa is survived by two sons: Jason L., husband of Amanda (Kowalski) Zoll of Lititz; Wayne A. Zoll, companion of Jen Townsley of Lancaster; a granddaughter: Kayley Gehman of Millersville; five siblings: Judith, wife of Carmelo Abreu of Reinholds; Lydia Burgos of Ephrata; Ali (Burgos) Johnson of Ephrata; Jaime Burgos of Ephrata: Carmen, wife of Terry Harnish of New Holland; three nephews: Gabriel Abreu of Ephrata; Andrew, husband of Jocelyn Abreu of Trappe, Md.; Brian Abreu of Adamstown; two nieces: Chastity Johnson of Lancaster; Kayla Johnson of Wyomissing; and a great-nephew: Matt Abonte of Lancaster.

A viewing will be held on Friday, Dec. 15, from 10 to 11 a.m. at the Stradling Funeral Home, 30 N. Ninth St., Akron, followed by funeral services at 11 a.m. with Pastor Nilda Roman officiating. Interment will take place in the Voganville Union Cemetery.

If desired, memorial contributions in Elizabeth’s memory may be made to the American Cancer Society-Lancaster County Unit, 314 Good Drive, Lancaster, PA, 17603.

Arrangements by Stradling Funeral Homes, Inc., Akron/Ephrata. Online condolences can be given at stradlingfuneralhome.com.

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Harry E. Horning, 77, of Ephrata, passed away on Friday, Dec. 8, 2017, at Gardens at Stevens Nursing Home.

He was born in Ephrata to the late Paul and Evelyn (Taylor) Horning, and was the husband of Elva E. (Reider) Horning, with whom he shared 58 years of marriage.

Harry attended the Grace Point Church in Ephrata. He was an avid Phillies fan, and enjoyed watching WWE wrestling. Prior to retiring, Harry worked as a truck driver for Conestoga Trucking.

In addition to his wife, Harry is survived by four children: Donna, wife of Dave Wert of New Bloomfield; Kim Roland of Ephrata; Dale Horning, husband of Wanda of Leola; and Deb, wife of Leroy Shirk of Denver; five grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; three brothers; and three sisters.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a grandson and two brothers.

Services were held Dec. 12 at Roseboro Stradling Funeral Home, Denver, with Pastor Ken Higginbotham officiating. Interment will be private at the convenience of the family.

Arrangements by Roseboro Stradling Funeral & Cremation Services, Inc., Denver. Online condolences can be given at roseborostradling.com.

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Evelyn May Gerstlauer, 95, of Brethren Village, entered into rest Dec. 5 at Lancaster General Hospital. As a committed Christian woman, Evelyn was a member of Akron Mennonite Church. She had worked in retail at the former Doneckers Clothing Store in Ephrata. Evelyn loved cats and investing in the lives of her extended family. She was a long-time caregiver to her good friend, Betty Hunsberger.

LaVerne S. Haas, 85, of Manheim, died peacefully Dec. 8 at the Mennonite Home. For many years LaVerne worked for Fenner Drives, Manheim. LaVerne was an active and faithful member of St. Paul’s United Church of Christ, Manheim. LaVerne and her sisters were known for singing gospel songs in four-part harmony. Her interests included gardening, puzzles of all types, and spending time with her family. Her brother, Aubrey, husband of Irene Steffy, lives in Ephrata. Her brother, Lee, husband of Laurie Steffy, resides in Akron.

Wayne M. Lapp, 80, Hustontown, and formerly of Akron, died Dec. 5. Mr. Lapp had been an insurance agent and had worked at General Motors. He enjoyed antiques, gardening and hunting. A daughter, Kim Marie Garman, lives in Denver.

Robert J. Lindemuth, 93, passed away peacefully Dec. 11 at Masonic Village, Elizabethtown. A veteran of World War II, Bob proudly served with the U.S. Army. A daughter, Jean M. Newell, lives in Ephrata.

Alverna Z. Mast, 89, of Parkesburg, passed away Dec. 10. She was born in Stevens and was a very active member of Sandy Hill Community Church of Coatesville. Alverna worked at Stoltzfus Meats, Intercourse, for over 40 years. She enjoyed flowers and flower arranging and worked as a florist. She also enjoyed gardening, her grandchildren, caring for others with her time and gift of prayer, and was a mentor to many. A sister-in-law, Jean Zimmerman, lives in Stevens.

Mary Catherine “Cass” (Aument) Nehr, 90, of Millersville, died Dec. 6 at St. Anne’s Retirement Community, Columbia. She had retired in 1995 after 27 years from Millersville University, where she had worked in the admissions office. She had sang alto for over 50 years in various church choirs. She was also part of the Singing Sisters Trio. Cass also loved working in her flower garden, especially with her beloved rose bushes. Her son, James H. Nehr, lives in Stevens.

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Mary N. Martin, 88, of Ephrata, passed away on Monday, December 4, 2017, at home.

She was born in Ephrata to the late Daniel and Lena (Nolt) Newswanger, and was the wife of the late Aaron Z. Martin Sr.

A homemaker, she was a member of Martindale Mennonite Church (Groffdale Conference).

Mary is survived by six sons: John Irvin, husband of Esther (Weaver) Martin of Newville; Cleason N., husband of Anna (Horning) Martin of East Earl; Leon N., husband of Elva Mae (Nolt) Martin of Ephrata; Ivan D., husband of Eva (Shirk) Martin of Penn Yan, N.Y.; Aaron N. Jr., husband of Lois (Zimmerman) Martin of Ephrata; Edward N., husband of Rachel (Nolt) Martin of Glenmont, Ohio; three daughters: Lena N. Martin, Marian N. Martin, Ellen N. Martin, all of Ephrata; 58 grandchildren; 73 great-grandchildren; and a sister: Lydia Hoover of Denver.

In addition to her husband and parents, she was preceded in death by a daughter: Edna N. Martin; four brothers: Eli, Samuel, Adam and Henry Newswanger; and a sister: Anna Weaver.

Services were Dec. 11 at Martindale Mennonite Church, with Bishop Titus Martin officiating. Interment took place in the adjoining church cemetery. Kindly omit flowers.

Arrangements by Stradling Funeral Homes, Inc., Akron/Ephrata. Online condolences can be given at stradlingfuneralhome.com.

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Raymond H. Weaver, 94, of Lincoln Christian Home, Ephrata, died on Saturday, Dec. 9, 2017, of natural causes.

He was married to Ada Rutt Weaver for 61 years until her death in 2005 and they had lived in Lebanon County for many years. Born Dec. 18, 1922 in East Earl, he was the son of the late Harry and Mary Hurst Weaver. His mother died shortly after his birth and he was raised by the late George and Ada Weaver.

He was a retired dairy farmer and a member of South Hinkletown Mennonite Church, Weaverland Conference.

Surviving are three sons: Myron R., husband of Anna Mary Sensenig Weaver of Richland; Marvin R., husband of Miriam Martin Weaver of Blue Ball; and Raymond R., husband of Jan Heck Weaver of Schaefferstown; a daughter: Marlene R., wife of Carl Z. Weaver of Lititz; 15 grandchildren; 58 great-grandchildren; two step grandchildren; three step-great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild.

He was preceded in death by two infant grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; a brother: Elam Weaver; a sister: Alta Martin; half-brothers: Earl Weaver and Ralph Weaver; and a half-sister: Anna Bell Zook.

The family wishes to thank the staff of Lincoln Christian Home for the loving care and compassion shown to Raymond for the year and a half that he resided there.

Funeral Services will be held on Thursday, Dec. 14, at 10 a.m., at South Hinkletown Mennonite Church, 573 E. Farmersville Road, Hinkletown, with Bishop Amos G. Martin, E. Merle Nolt, Roy Sensenig and Harlan Martin officiating. Interment will be in the adjoining church cemetery. A viewing will be held on Wednesday, Dec. 13, from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Lincoln Christian Home, 1307 Apple St., Ephrata.

Arrangements by the Groff High Funeral Home, New Holland. Condolences and memories may be posted to groffeckenroth.com.

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Clara B. Sauder, 93, of 333 Wheatridge Drive, Ephrata, formerly of New Holland went home to be with her Lord on Dec. 2, 2017.

Born in Farmersville, she was the daughter of the late J. Landis and Clara Rutt Buchen. She was preceded in death by her husband of 54 years, Isaac L. Sauder.

Clara was a member of New Holland Mennonite Church where she served as Sunday school teacher and summer Bible school teacher. She enjoyed sewing with the women’s sewing circle, making comforters and baby layettes for Mennonite Central Committee. In later years she sewed many baby layettes. She was a gifted pianist and continued to play piano into her 90s.

Clara was employed at Akron Shoe Factory, and later at New Holland Lingerie. Early in their marriage, Clara and her husband worked with physically and mentally challenged individuals at the Woodbine Colony in Woodbine, N.J.

She was preceded in death by two sons: Donald R. and Delmar L., married to Lois Lantz, Gordonville, who survives.

Also surviving are her son: Jay W., married to Joyce Yoder, Meyersdale; and daughter: Joyce E. Davenport, Fishersville, Va.; eight grandchildren; and 19 great-grandchildren.

Clara was also preceded in death by four siblings and their spouses: Esther and Parke Herr, Vera and Martin Weaver, Elizabeth and Nelson Landis, Kenneth and Rhoda (Thomas) Buchen; and her brother: Caleb.

She is survived by her brother: Curvin (Lois Garber); and four sisters: Thelma Sauder (Raymond, deceased), Rhoda Leaman (Ben), Lois Kautz (Don), and Laverne Peifer (Chris). Clara is also survived by her dear friend and caregiver: Katie Kauffman.

Private services will be held at the convenience of the family.

If desired, contributions may be made to Hospice & Community Care, PO Box 4125, Lancaster, PA 17604.

Arrangements with Groff-High-Eckenroth Funeral Home, New Holland. Memories and condolences may be shared at groffeckenroth.com.

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Isabel L. Treisch, 92, of Ephrata, passed away on Friday, Dec. 8, 2017, at Ephrata Manor, Ephrata.

She was born in Ephrata on March 3, 1925 to the late Leroy and Esther (Shiffer) Leibold, and was the wife of the late Robert S. Treisch, who passed away in 1993.

She was a registered nurse at Ephrata Hospital and worked at Warren Shoe Store in Ephrata. She was a member of Hope United Methodist Church, Ephrata, where she taught Sunday school. She enjoyed reading, crossword puzzles, playing games, and watching her grandchildren play sports.

Isabel is survived by two daughters: Diane Hornberger of Jacksonville, Fla.; and Carol Lynn, wife of Jim L. Heller of New Holland; four grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren.

In addition to her husband and parents, she was preceded in death by a sister: Marion.

Services were held Dec. 13 at the Donecker Chapel at Ephrata Manor, with Pastor Jim Bongard officiating. Interment followed in the Cedar Hill Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Isabel’s memory may be made to Ephrata Manor Benevolent Fund, 99 Bethany Road, Ephrata, PA, 17522.

The family would like to thank all of Isabel’s caretakers for all they did for her during the many years she was at the home. We appreciate you all.

Arrangements by Stradling Funeral Homes, Inc., Akron/Ephrata. Online condolences can be given at stradlingfuneralhome.com.

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Ralph L. Miller, 97, of Akron, formerly of Ephrata, passed away on Friday, Dec. 8, 2017, at Maple Farm.

He was born in Berks County to the late Peter and Carrie (Krick) Miller, and was the husband of the late Hilda (Borry) Miller, who passed away on May 9. They had been married 74 years when she passed.

Ralph had been a member of St. John’s United Church of Christ in Denver, where he had served as deacon. He served his country in the Air Force during World War II. He was also a member of the Ephrata Blue Lodge, and enjoyed golf, bowling, and darts.

Prior to his retirement he was employed as a machinist for Liningers and the Hope Hosiery Mill.

Ralph is survived by a daughter: Barbara, wife of the late Thomas Ostapuck of Stevens; and a granddaughter: Tracy, wife of Jeffrey Love of Gretna, Va.

He was preceded in death by a brother: Peter Miller; and three sisters: Minerva Fitterling, Mazie Shupp, and Helen Adams.

A viewing will be held on Thursday, Dec. 14, from 9 to 10 a.m., at Roseboro Stradling Funeral Home, 533 Walnut St., Denver, where funeral services will follow at 10 a.m., with Pastor Bradley Haws officiating. Interment will take place in the Pleasant View Cemetery.

Arrangements by Roseboro Stradling Funeral & Cremation Services, Inc., Denver. Online condolences can be given at roseborostradling.com.

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J. Larry Ressler, 48, of Ephrata passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2017, to be with his Savior.

Born in Lancaster, he was the son of Nancy Nolt Ressler of Leola and the late Sylvan Ressler. He was the loving husband of Lisa A. Heisey Ressler and they celebrated their 27th wedding anniversary this past August.

A graduate of Faith Mennonite High School in 1987, Larry then received a B.S. in computer science from Millersville University in 1992. Larry was a teacher at Faith Mennonite High School, Kinzers and Linville Hill School, Paradise. He also worked for Esh Computer Center, Gap, and he provided accounting services for local businesses.

Larry was an active member of Cornerstone Mennonite Fellowship, Ephrata. He had a passion for the God he served and was a role model and inspiration to his children. He enjoyed teaching, hunting, sports, and singing.

Surviving in addition to his wife and mother are five children: Victoria, wife of Cameron Weaver of Ephrata; Amanda, wife of Winston Lechlitner of Goshen, Ind.; Makayla, Austin, and Dawson Ressler at home; two brothers: Jeff, husband of Christine Ressler of Gap; Wes, husband of Alice Ressler of Denver; and a sister: Cheryl Ressler of Leola.

Services were held Dec. 11 at Weaverland Mennonite Church, East Earl. Interment was in the adjoining church cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, those desiring may send contributions in Larry’s memory to Faith Mennonite High School, 5085 Woodland Drive, Kinzers, PA 17535.

To send the family online condolences, visit BuchFuneral.com. Buch Funeral Home, Manheim,was in charge of the arrangements.

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Donald S. Dombach Sr., 76, of Brownstown, passed away on Thursday, Dec. 14, 2017.

He was the companion of many years of Charlene E. Regener. He was born in Columbia, son of the late Martin M. and Marian M. Swarr Dombach.

He was a machine operator for NTN-BCA formerly Federal Mogul, for many years before his retirement. He was a member of First Church of God, and a veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps. Don enjoyed traveling, gardening, collecting classic cars, and his antique tractor.

Surviving in addition to his companion are one son: Donald S. (Laura M.) Dombach Jr., Millersville; two grandchildren: Kaitlyn M. and Zachary J. C.; two sisters: Nancy Weiss and Kay Danz; and a brother: Jeffrey Dombach.

Services were held Dec. 20 at Central Manor Church of God, Washington Boro, with Rev. Dean K. Vander Wiele, officiating. Interment will be in Millersville Mennonite Cemetery with full military honors.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in his memory to First Church of God, 344 W. Chestnut St., Lancaster, PA 17603.

Arrangements by the Workman Funeral Homes, Mountville/Columbia. To send an online condolence, visit workmanfuneralhomes.com.

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Amos N. Hostetter, 90, of Mohnton, died of natural causes on Monday, Dec. 11, 2017 at his home.

Born in Ephrata, he was the son of the late Joseph E. and Lydia (Nolt) Hostetter. His wife, Climena (Good) Hostetter, died Nov. 27, 2004.

Amos was a dairy farmer most of his life and he also owned and operated Goods Lawn and Garden at Goods Store in East Earl for a time. He also was a member and served as a minister at Honey Brook Mennonite Church.

Surviving are 12 children: H. Joseph, married to Betty (Eberly) Hostetter of Arcadia, Fla.; Lucy G., widow of the late Earl Hege of Chambersburg; Marie G., married to Enos M. Shank of Hanover; A. Eugene, married to Carol (Hege) Hostetter of Spring Run; Susie E., widow of the late Paul Mack of Sunbury; J. Earl, married to Thelma Jean (Baer) Hostetter of Aspers; Lois E., married to Lamar H. Nolt of Lititz; J. David, married to Linda W. (Zimmerman) Hostetter of New Holland; Daniel G., married to Patricia (Derstine) Hostetter of Morgantown; J. Mark, married to Sharon (Zimmerman) Hostetter of Mohnton; C. Faye, married to J. Ray Auker of Denver; and John E., married to Teresa (Phipps) Hostetter of Ephrata; 102 grandchildren; 279 great-grandchildren; and a son-in-law: James W. Burkholder of Tamaqua.

Preceding him in death is a daughter: Rachel G. Burkholder; a son: Michael Clair Hostetter; four grandchildren; a great-granddaughter; 10 brothers and sisters: Mary Good, Aaron, J. Martin, John, Samuel, Jacob, Elizabeth Horning, Anna Martin, David, and Lydia Hostetter; and a stepbrother: Elvin Martin.

Funeral services were held Dec. 16 at Honey Brook Mennonite Church. Interment was in the adjoining cemetery. Kindly omit flowers.

Arrangements by Eckenroth Home for Funerals, Terre Hill.

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Walter S. Levering, 98, passed away on Monday, Dec. 11, 2017 in Brentwood, Tenn.

He was born in Landis Valley in 1919, son to the late Abram and Elizabeth (Ravegum) Levering. Walter was married to the late Myrtle (Angstadt) Levering for 66 years and lived in Ephrata for most of his life. The past five years he lived in Brentwood, Tenn., close to his son.

Walter worked at the Hamilton Watch Company for over 40 years and served on the USS Henry A. Wiley during World War II. He was a member of the Ephrata AMVETS, Ephrata Elks Lodge, Ephrata Masonic Lodge, and the Ephrata VFW, where he was a past commander. He was also a member of the Ephrata Recreation Center, where he was an active participant into his 90s.

Walter is survived by his son: Jeffrey, husband of Euzane of Brentwood, Tenn. He had four grandchildren: Jennifer, married to Matthew Ferguson of Charlotte, N.C.; Chrissy, married to Kyle Krejci of Atlanta, Ga.; Doug Levering of Philadelphia; and Katherine, married to Jeff Groff of Hopeland. Walter also had five great-grandchildren: Ann Parker Ferguson, Elizabeth Krejci, Ada Krejci, Lillian Krejci, and Willa Groff.

Walter was also preceded in death by son: Dennis; and daughter-in-law: Carol Levering.

Visitation with the family will be held at the Gravenor Funeral Home in Ephrata, PA from 10 to 11 a.m. on Friday, Dec. 29. Funeral services will follow and interment will be at the Memory Gardens, East Cocalico Township.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Heart Association (heart.org) or a charity of your choice.

To send online condolences, visit gravenorhomeforfunerals.com. Gravenor Home for Funerals, Ephrata, was entrusted with the arrangements.

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John M. Rissler, 84, of Leola, passed away on Tuesday, Dec. 12, 2017, at Lancaster General Hospital.

He was born in West Earl Township to the late John S. and Martha (Martin) Rissler, and was the husband of Alice L. (Fox) Rissler.

A cabinet maker, John was a member of Groffdale Mennonite Church, Groffdale Conference.

In addition to his wife, John is survived by six children: Irene, wife of Amos Burkholder of Leola; Ruth, wife of Norman Nolt of Leola; Vera, wife of Rufus Martin of Mifflinburg; John, husband of Janet (Stauffer) Rissler of Leola; Leon, husband of Linda (Reiff) Rissler of East Earl; Larry, husband of Erma (Zimmerman) Rissler of Leola; 39 grandchildren; 47 great-grandchildren; a sister; Martha Bartsch of Lebanon; a brother-in-law: Titus Horning; and a sister-in-law: Alta Rissler.

He was preceded in death by a grandchild; two great-grandchildren; four brothers: Isaac, Martin, Paul, and Jacob; and three sisters: Bertha Martin, Edna Horning and Anna Rissler.

Services were held Dec. 16 at Groffdale Mennonite Church, Leola, with Bishop Ammon Weaver officiating. Interment will take place in the adjoining church cemetery. Kindly omit flowers.

Arrangements by Stradling Funeral Homes, Inc., Akron/Ephrata. Online condolences can be given at stradlingfuneralhome.com.

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Paul N. Rutt, 97, of Ephrata, passed away on Thursday, Dec. 14, 2017, at Lincoln Christian Home.

He was born in East Earl Township to the late Harry Z. and Ida (Nolt) Rutt, and was the husband of the late Emma E. (Martin) Rutt, who passed away in 2013.

A farmer, he was a member of Springville Mennonite Church (Weaverland Conference).

Paul is survived by four daughters: Mary Jane, wife of David Seibel of Stevens; Mildred, wife of David E. Zimmerman of Lebanon; Mabel, wife of Raymond Martin of Lititz; Dolores, wife of Kenneth Hurst of Ephrata; a sister: Lydia Rutt of Landis Homes; a son-in-law: Lloyd, husband of Ada (Zimmerman) Sensenig of Annville; 29 grandchildren; 165 great-grandchildren; and 36 great-great-grandchildren.

In addition to his wife and parents, he was preceded in death by a daughter: Minerva (Rutt) Sensenig; two grandchildren: Rodger Martin and Brenda Oberholtzer; three great-grandchildren; five brothers; and six sisters.

Services were held Dec. 18 at Springville Mennonite Church, Ephrata, with Bishop Melvin Martin officiating. Interment takes place in the adjoining church cemetery. Kindly omit flowers.

Arrangements by Stradling Funeral Homes, Inc., Akron/Ephrata. Online condolences can be given at stradlingfuneralhome.com.

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Gloria C. Spitler, 85, formerly of Ephrata, died Saturday, Dec. 16, 2017, at 1:10 a.m., in Lancashire Hall, Neffsville.

Born in Ephrata, a daughter of the late Elmer B. and Kathryn (Weaver) Mellinger, she was a member of Brickerville United Lutheran Church.

Gloria was the owner and operator of Ruth’s Luncheonette at Green Dragon. She cherished her family, especially her grand and great-grandchildren; enjoyed walking, jigsaw puzzles and playing cards.

Surviving are her daughter: Juanita G. (Dean A.) Kissinger, Lititz; granddaughters: Amy (Eric) Weaver, Lititz; and Angela (George) Thomas, Akron; great-grandchildren: Mitchell, Jasmine, Andrew, and Kylie; and her brother: Dale Mellinger, Bowmansville.

She was predeceased by her siblings: Joyce Aument and Robert Mellinger

A memorial celebration of life will be held on Wednesday, Dec. 27, at 11 a.m. from Brickerville United Lutheran Church, 340 E. 28th Division Highway (Route 322), Lititz, with The Rev. Dr. Scott K. Davis officiating. Inurnment will follow in Memory Gardens Memorial Park, Ephrata. The family will receive friends Wednesday from 10 to 11 a.m.

Rather than flowers, contribution in Gloria’s memory may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, 706 Rothsville Road, Lititz, PA 17543.

Good Funeral Home & Cremation Centre, Reamstown, is honored to be serving Gloria’s family. Condolences and memories may be shared at goodfuneral.com.

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