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Melvin H. Burkholder, 78, Ephrata, father of 11

Melvin H. Burkholder, 78, husband of Lizzie Z. Shirk, of Ephrata, passed away on Friday, Dec. 14, 2018.

Melvin is survived by 11 children: Martha, wife of Reuben Weaver, Orrstown; Esther, wife of Vernon Eby, Hopkinsville, Ky.; Ruth, wife of Leon Leinbach, Kempton; Erma, wife of Amon Hoover, Hopkinsville, Ky.; Alta, Ephrata; Mary, Ephrata; Reuben, husband of Ellen Zimmerman, Greenwood, Wisc.; Joseph, husband of Ella Zimmerman, Pembroke, Ky.; Susan, Ephrata; Ammon, husband of Jane Zimmerman, Denver; and Norma, Ephrata.

He is also survived by 50 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; four brothers: Amos, of Spencer, Tenn.; Luke, Memphis, Mo.; Phares, Greenwood, Wisc.; Norman, Denver; and two sisters: Mary Burkholder and Annie Burkholder, Ephrata.

He was preceded in death by one brother: Allen; and one sister: Rebecca Burkholder.

A viewing will be held on Thursday, Dec. 20, from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m., at the late residence, 148 Hahnstown Road, Ephrata. Funeral services will be held on Friday, Dec. 21, at 9 a.m. at 220 Covered Bridge Road, Ephrata, with further services at 9:30 a.m. from the Conestoga Mennonite Church, Ephrata, with Bishop Titus Martin officiating. Interment will take place in the adjoining church cemetery.

Arrangements by Stradling Funeral Homes, Akron/Ephrata.

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Elvin J. Ressler, 78, EHS grad, USMC vet, CNH retiree, honored Railroad Museum volunteer

Elvin J. Ressler, 78, of Ephrata, passed away on Dec. 14, 2018, at Fairmount Nursing Home, Ephrata.

Elvin was born April 20, 1940, in Manheim Township to Grube and Anna (Zimmerman) Ressler.

He was a 1958 graduate of Ephrata High School and went on to receive his associate of science degree from Penn State University, Berks. He worked as a test analyst for Case/New Holland retiring after 43 years of service. Elvin was a proud member of the U.S. Marine Corps. He belonged to the New Beginnings Brethren in Christ Church, of Ephrata, and was active in the Evangelical Teacher Training Association. Elvin also was a longtime volunteer at the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania in Strasburg and received their Volunteer of the Year award.

Preceding Elvin in death were his parents and seven siblings: John, Paul, Martin, Elmer, Melvin, Clarence and Anna Mae.

Surviving are his loving wife of 55 years: Jeanne (Pawling) Ressler; five children: Michael E. Ressler (Julie Ann Koster) of Duarte, Calif.; Daniel E. Ressler (Jennifer Lysak) of Selinsgrove; David S. Ressler (Lori J. Luther) of Lititz; Joel S. Ressler, of Larimore, N.D.; Beth A. Ressler (Michael Johnson) of Juneau, Alaska; eight grandchildren; and his brother: Harold Ressler.

Friends may gather for a memorial service Jan. 4 at 11 a.m. at Speedwell Heights Brethren in Christ Church, 413 W. Brubaker Valley Road, Lititz. Interment will be private.

Arrangements are under the care of Gravenor Home for Funerals, Ephrata. To leave condolences, visit gravenorhomeforfunerals.com.

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John C. Landis, 77, driver for Tyson, enjoyed traveling, was avid motorcyclist

John C. Landis, 77, of Akron, passed away on Monday, Dec. 10, 2018, at WellSpan Ephrata Community Hospital.

He was born in Ephrata to the late John H. and Daisy (Donmoyer) Landis, and was the husband of Pearl M. (McCreary) Landis, with whom he shared 34 years of marriage.

John was a truck driver for Tyson Chicken (formerly Weaver’s) in New Holland. He enjoyed traveling and was an avid motorcyclist.

In addition to his wife, John is survived by a stepson: Chris Hornberger, companion of Trish Underwood of Lancaster; a stepdaughter: Cheryl Hornberger, companion of Alan Plopa of Harrisburg; two grandsons: Tyler and Brandon Hornberger; a great-granddaughter: Myla Hornberger; a brother: Dennis R., husband of Nancy Landis of Oceanside, Calif.; and three sisters: Sandra, wife of Jerry Butzer of Ephrata; Bonita Brenner of Ephrata; Amy Orner of Lititz.

Services were held Dec. 19 at Stradling Funeral Home, Akron. Interment will be private at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery.

Memorial contributions in John’s memory may be made to Stradling Funeral Home, P.O. Box 92, Ephrata, PA 17522 to help with funeral expenses.

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

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Florence L. Gehr, 99, Stevens, active with Mellingers Lutheran, Schoeneck Fire Co. Auxiliary

Florence L. Gehr, 99, of Stevens, passed away on Friday, Dec. 14, 2018 at Fairmount Homes in Ephrata.

She was the loving wife of the late Edwin B. Gehr for 57 years, and daughter of the late Samuel and Mary (Landis) Henly.

Florence was also preceded in death by two brothers: Walter L. and Landis L. Henly; one sister: Esther L. Henly. She was the last of her immediate family and is survived by a number of nieces and nephews.

Florence was born in Denver, and was a lifetime member of Mellingers Lutheran Church in Schoeneck. She had formerly been very active in fundraising programs for the church. Florence was also a member of the Schoeneck Fire Company Ladies Auxiliary.

Services were held Dec. 19 at Mellingers Lutheran Church, Stevens, officiated by the Rev. Timothy L. Craven. She was interred in Mellingers Union Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donations in Florence’s memory to Mellingers Lutheran Church, 80 Gockley Road, Stevens, PA 17578.

To send online condolences, visit gravenorhomeforfunerals.com. Gravenor Home for Funerals, Ephrata, had charge of the arrangements.

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Deaths of Local Interest – Dec. 19, 2018

Donald L. Heisey, 68, of Manheim, formerly of Mountville, passed away Dec. 15 at UMPC Pinnacle Lititz, following a brief illness. He was employed as a licensed practical nurse by United Zion Retirement Community in Lititz for 35 years. In addition to being a talented pianist, he sang tenor and recorded records with The Brethren, Melody Three, and The Zimmerman Sisters. A daughter, Rebecca S., wife of Shannon Eberly, lives in Terre Hill. A son, David L., husband of Kelly Heisey, resides in Stevens.

Titus M. Oberholtzer, 82, of Lititz, passed away on Dec. 13 at Hospice & Community Care, Mount Joy. A farmer, Titus was a member of Conestoga Mennonite Church. A daughter, Ada, wife of Weaver Leid, lives in Ephrata.

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Ella M. Rissler, 78, Ephrata resident, born in West Earl

Ella M. Rissler, 78, of Ephrata, passed away on Saturday, Dec. 15, 2018, at the home of Emma Shirk, where she resided.

Born in West Earl Township, she was a daughter of the late Daniel G. and Jannie B. (Martin) Wanner. On Nov. 14, 1965, she married the late Daniel N. Rissler.

She is survived by one son and daughter-in-law: Daniel W. and Barbara A. (Stauffer) Rissler of Port Trevorton; five brothers and sisters: Ada Martin of Denver; Barbara Wanner of Cerulean, Ky.; Martin, husband of Sally Wanner of Port Trevorton; Anna Martin of Cerulean, Ky.; and John, husband of Rose Wanner of Port Trevorton; four sisters-in-law, Martha Wanner of Tennessee, Sadie Wanner of Ephrata, Ruth Wanner and Anny Mary Wanner, both of Port Trevorton; four grandsons, Daniel S., Leroy S., Adam S., and Matthew S. Rissler; and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by five brothers: Harry, Daniel, William, Samuel and Aaron Wanner; one sister: Mary M. Wanner; and two brothers-in-law: Daniel Rissler and Levi Martin.

Services will be held at the home of Emma Shirk Dec. 19 at 12:30 p.m., with further services at 1:15 at Groffdale Frame Mennonite Church, 90 Groffdale Church Road, Leola. Burial will take place in the adjoining church cemetery.

Arrangements by Stradling Funeral Homes, Akron/Ephrata.

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Jean E. Trostle, 84, Keystone Nitewear worker, enjoyed knitting, travel, genealogy, Peace UCC member

Jean E. Trostle, 84, formerly of Reinholds, passed away on Saturday, Dec. 15, 2018, at Ephrata Manor.

She was born in Shoemakersville to George J. and Annie (Hoffman) DeLong, and was the wife of the late Richard S. Trostle, who passed away on Dec. 15, 2006.

She was a member of Peace UCC, Swartzville. She enjoyed crocheting, knitting, traveling, and genealogy.

Jean worked as a machine operator for Keystone Nitewear for 39 years prior to her retirement in 1997.

Jean is survived by brothers and sisters: Marie Gettel of Rehrersburg; Fern, wife of Paul Ruth of Wernersville; Alberta, wife of John Steffy of Stevens; Larry, husband of Gerri (Gingrich) DeLong of Bethel; Eleanor, wife of Larry Keller of Womelsdorf; Linda, wife of Ray Holland of Montoursville; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by brothers: Adam, Norman, Mark, Marvin, Kenneth, Russell, and Bruce DeLong; and a sister: Anna Bohr.

At Jean’s request, graveside services will be private.

Memorial contributions in Jean’s memory may be made to Peace UCC, 37 E. Swartzville Road, Denver, PA 17517.

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

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Jay Kenneth ‘Rat’ Royer, 87, EHS football player, Korea veteran, Rohrer’s superintendent, quick-witted

Jay Kenneth “Rat” Royer passed away at the age of 87 on Dec. 14, 2018.

Ken is survived by his wife of 66 years: Rachael; daughter and son-in-law: Denise and Kevin Brumbach; daughter and son-in-law: Donna and Mike Collins; grandson: Alex Good and wife Tori; and great-grandson: Bennett Jay Good.

He was preceded in death by four brothers and two sisters.

He will be fondly remembered for his wit and sense of humor. Ken was always quick with a joke, song or funny story.

Ken played football at Ephrata High School and served in the Army during the Korean War. He was a shift foreman for Bethlehem Steel Corporation at Grace Mine, Morgantown, for 24 years, and then was the superintendent at Rohrer’s Quarry in Lititz until his retirement.

He enjoyed small game hunting, fishing, and deer hunting at his camp in Sullivan County. He and Rachael took numerous trips over the years and later after retiring spent time at Rehoboth Beach.

Honoring Ken’s wishes, there will be no services.

The family would like to thank Masonic Village Hospice for their wonderful care.

Memorial contributions in Jay’s memory may be made to Masonic Village Hospice, 1 Masonic Drive, Elizabethtown, PA 17022.

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

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Marian J. McNally, 85, ECH x-ray tech, civic volunteer, well-traveled, enjoyed gardening

Marian J. McNally, 85, of Lititz, formerly of Akron, passed away on Monday, Dec. 17, 2018, at Luther Acres, Lititz.

She was born in Manheim to the late Elam and Grace (Zellers) Shenenberger, and was the wife of the late Alvin R. McNally, who passed away in 1992.

Marian graduated from Philadelphia General Hospital as a radiology technician and worked as an x-ray tech at St. Joseph’s Hospital and Ephrata Community Hospital. She also volunteered for many years at Ephrata Community Hospital through the Red Cross. She was active with other charities and service organizations including the Akron and Ephrata Women’s clubs and Community Chest in Lititz

She loved gardening and watching the birds in her garden, spending time with her grandchildren, and traveling. She traveled extensively throughout the U.S. and also visited many other countries including Germany, Italy and Israel.

Marian is survived by a daughter: Cynthia A. Todd of Ephrata; a son: Thomas S., husband of Dottie McNally of Charlottesville, Va.; a daughter-in-law: Susan McNally of Wenonah, N.J.; four grandchildren: Daniel “Dan,” husband of Gina McNally of West Deptford, N.J.; Katherine “Katie,” wife of Brad Davis of Lititz; Erin, wife of Jeff Walsh of West Deptford, N.J.; Stephen “Steve” McNally of Emeryville, Calif.; seven great-grandchildren: Maya, Ella and Grayson McNally; Silas and Ezra Davis; Delaney and Caleb Walsh; and four siblings: Darlene, wife of Robert Henly of Lititz; Rosene Shenenberger of Manheim; Charlie Shenenberger of Lititz; James, husband of Margaret Shenenberger of New Holland.

In addition to her husband and parents, she was preceded in death by a son: Michael J. McNally; and three sisters: Dorothy Wendler, Grace Smith and Shirley Crowther.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, Dec. 22 from 10 to 11 a.m. at Crossroads Community Fellowship, 1060 E. Newport Road, Lititz, followed by a memorial service at 11 a.m. Interment will take place in the Mt. Zion Evangelical Cemetery.

If desired, memorial contributions in Marian’s memory may be made to Luther Acres Benevolent Fund, 600 E. Main St., Lititz, PA, 17543.

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

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Robert Steinmetz Jr., 61, worked at Bollman Hat, Shady Maple, enjoyed bowling, RC cars

Robert Steinmetz Jr., 61, of Ephrata, passed away on Wednesday, Dec. 12, 2018, at Lancaster General Hospital.

He was born in Ephrata to Delores E. (Habecker) Steinmetz and the late Robert Steinmetz.

He enjoyed bowling, fishing, and radio controlled cars. Robert formerly worked for Miller & Hess, Bollman Hat Company, and Shady Maple Smorgasbord.

In addition to his mother, Robert is survived by a son: Travis Steinmetz of Ephrata; and a sister: Deborah A. Steinmetz of Ephrata.

Services were held Dec. 18 at Roseboro Stradling Funeral Home, Denver. Interment took place in the Red Run (Martin’s) Cemetery.

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

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Leon W. Stauffer, 75, driver for Amelia’s, Weaver’s, enjoyed time with family, singing

Leon W. Stauffer, 75, of Ephrata, passed away on Wednesday, Dec. 19, 2018, at Ephrata Manor.

He was born in Martindale to the late Charles R. and Ellen M. (Weaver) Stauffer, and was the husband of Verna (Nolt) Stauffer, with whom he shared 55 years of marriage.

He was a member of Ephrata United Zion Church. Leon was a truck driver for Amelia’s Grocery Outlet and previously Victor F. Weaver. He enjoyed spending time with his family, going to the mountains and singing.

In addition to his wife, Leon is survived by a son: Lowell, husband of Bev Stauffer of Mohnton; a son-in-law: Preston Lindeman Sr.; nine grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; a brother: Marvin W., husband of Elsie W. Stauffer; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a daughter: Teresa Lindeman; and a sister: Erma Ann, wife of the late Barry Quigley.

Services were held Dec. 26 at Ephrata United Zion Church, with Pastor Mel Horst officiating. Interment took place in the Hahnstown United Zion Cemetery.

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

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Chester L. Yeakel, 72, Lincoln, born in West Cocalico, survived by three stepchildren

Chester L. Yeakel, 72, of Lincoln-Ephrata, passed away at Lancaster General Hospital on Wednesday, Dec. 19, 2018.

He was the husband of the late Rosalie F. (Sensenig) Yeakel, who passed away Nov, 24, 2013. Chester was born in West Cocalico Township, son of the late Ernest and Alice Yeakel.

Chester is survived by three stepchildren: Julia R., wife of Jay Wanner, of Lincoln; Jay R. Dull Sr., husband of Sharon (Wanner) Dull, of Lincoln; and Joleen R. Dull, fiancée of Michael Schweitzer, of Ephrata; six step-grandchildren; six step-great-grandchildren; five sisters: Sarah, Bonnie, Marion, Linda, and Teresa; two brothers: Paul and Ronald; and many nieces and nephews.

Memorial services and interment will be held at the convenience of the family.

To offer your condolences visit gravenorhomeforfunerals.com. Arrangements by Paul. L Gravenor Home for Funerals, Ephrata.

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Caroline M. Eberly, 76, Stevens, Grant’s, Weaver’s store worker, parochial school teacher

Caroline M. Eberly, 76, of Stevens, passed away on Thursday, Dec. 20, 2018, at her home. She was under the care of Hospice and Community Care.

She was born in West Cocalico Township to the late Norman M. and Cora M. (Martin) Eberly.

Caroline was a member of Springville Mennonite Church (Weaverland Conference). She worked eight years as a parochial school teacher, four years at WT Grant store, and 35 years at Weaver’s Store in Fivepointville, before retiring in 2012.

Caroline is survived by her brother: Clarence M. Eberly of Reinholds; sisters: Cathrine M. Eberly and Floy M. Eberly, with whom she resided; Norma, married to Norman Burkholder of Denver; and Cora, married to Mervin Sensenig of Denver; 16 nieces and nephews; 75 great-nieces and nephews; and 63 great-great-nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by a sister-in-law: Elsie Eberly; and a niece: Lillian E. Sensenig.

Services were held Dec. 24 at Springville Mennonite Church, with Bishop Melvin Martin officiating. Burial took place in the adjoining church cemetery. Kindly omit flowers.

Arrangements by Roseboro Stradling Funeral & Cremation Services, Denver.

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Curvin David Willders, 81, Dutch Donuts owner, big heart, loved driving, making people smile

Curvin David Willders, 81, of East Earl, died Monday, Dec. 17, 2018 at Lancaster General Hospital.

Born in York, on Sept. 1, 1937, he was the son of the late Emma Ritter. He was a loving father and devoted husband to the late Glenda Willders. They were married 52 years.

Not one for serious conversations, he chose humor in everything and loved to make people smile. In his younger years he enjoyed cooking, bowling, dancing, playing cards and just being with people. In his later years he loved to get in his car and just drive. He had a heart of gold and was a selfless man that helped many along the way. He would give the shirt off his back to help anyone and sometimes did.

He worked many jobs to provide for his family, but was most proud of owning and operating Dutch Donuts in New Holland from 1969-1983 with his wife. He loved being dubbed as “The Donut Man.”

Curvin is survived by his two children: Cheryl Pratt, married to Wade of Lancaster; and Rick Willders married to Connie of Charleston, S.C.; and two granddaughters: Kirstin and Elyse Willders.

Services were Dec. 21 at Groff-High Funeral Home, New Holland. Entombment followed in Conestoga Memorial Park in the Shrine of Memories Mausoleum.

To send an online condolence to the family, visit GroffEckenroth.com. Arrangements by Groff-High Funeral Home, New Holland.

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Eleanor Barrett, 93, Ephrata, very giving with a great sense of humor, adored dogs and cats

Eleanor Barrett, 93, of Ephrata, passed away on Dec. 17, 2018.

Born in Pottstown, she was the daughter of the late Samuel D. Gray and Estella (Bickel) Gray. Eleanor was the loving wife to the late Eugene H. Barrett.

Eleanor was a very giving person and will be remembered for her wonderful sense of humor. She adored dogs and cats, and liked angels.

Eleanor is survived by a daughter: Bonnie Whitman; a son: Don Barrett, husband of Tammy; three grandchildren: Wendy Barrett Schaeffer, Kevin and Keith Whitman; six great-grandchildren: Whitney, Dawson, Amy, Angie, Katie and Jessie; seven great-great-grandchildren; two sisters: Hazel Price and Ella Mae Martin; and a brother: David Gray.

Services will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Evangel Assembly of God Church, 939 Linden Road, Ephrata, PA 17522.

To send online condolences, visit SnyderFuneralHome.com. Charles F. Snyder, Jr. Funeral Home & Crematory, Lititz, handled the arrangements.

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Paul D. Witwer Sr., 91, WWII vet, father of four, Bollman, retiree, outdoorsman, enjoyed trains

Paul D. Witwer Sr., 91, of Ephrata, died Tuesday, Dec. 18, 2018 at York Hospital.

He was married 64 years to Betty A. Ochs Witwer. Born in Alleghenyville, Berks County, he was the son of the late David G. and Anna Horst Witwer.

Paul served in the U.S. Army during World War II.

Paul retired from the Bollman Hat Company. Prior to that he had worked at Victor F. Weaver in New Holland. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, gardening, trains, and baseball.

Surviving besides his wife are two sons: Paul D. Jr. husband of Maria Witwer of Lancaster; and James M. Witwer Sr., of Ephrata; two daughters: Shirley A. Ludwig of Ephrata; and Sarah J. Musser of Blue Ball; five grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; three step-grandchildren; and five step-great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by two grandchildren; a son-in-law: Galen R. Musser; and by a daughter-in-law: Bonnie Witwer.

Services were held Dec. 24 at Eckenroth Funeral Home, Terre Hill, with the Rev. Eugene Weaver officiating. Interment was in the Center Union Cemetery.

To leave an online condolence for the family, visit GroffEckenroth.com. Arrangements by Eckenroth Home for Funerals, Terre Hill.

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Daniel Jay Meck, 63, Ephrata native, was decorated Gulf War vet, installed first carrier ship ATMs

Daniel Jay Meck, of Lancaster, formerly of Lititz, entered life Sept. 12, 1955 in Ephrata, and entered eternal paradise Dec. 18, 2018.

His spirit is carried on by his wife: Clarita Meck; and three children: Sheryl N. Meck, Michelle D. Meck, Joseph J. Meck; and two living grandsons: Julian Heagy, son of Michelle; and Ace’on Davis, son of Sheryl. Also left to cherish his memory is his mother: Sara Meck (Ephrata) and three siblings: Dave Meck (New York), Karen Meck (Millersville), William Meck (Reinholds); and a host of relatives and dear friends.

Dan was preceded in death by his father: Joseph Z. Meck and brother James Meck.

Husband, Father, Pop-pop and friend, his presence was so comforting. He made all feel welcomed. Big as a bear, yet so gentle. He was full of jokes and opinions. Dan loved our God and guided his children through truth in His word. He adored his grandchildren, who loved him dearly.

Dan’s life was full of accomplishments. He joined the Navy in January 1982 out of a strong desire to serve his country. After completing boot camp at NRTC Great Lakes, Ill., he attended DK “A” school at NTTC Meriden, Miss., and graduated with top honors. He then reported to USS Ranger, where he excelled in his career and served with excellence and exceptional professionalism. His tours of duty took him to the Western Pacific, the Indian Ocean, the Arabian Sea, the Gulf of Oman and the Strait of Hormuz, with port of calls in Hawaii, the Philippines, Oman, Diego Garcia and Australia. During his time in the Philippines, Dan received two concurrent Sailor of the Quarter awards and was honored the Sailor of the Year award for his service in the Personnel Support Detachment of the Subic Bay Naval Base. He was awarded the Navy Achievement Medal from the Commander in Chief U.S. Pacific Fleet by certification from the Secretary of the Navy. He also received two good conduct medals, several awarded letters of appreciation and numerous other service awards.

While serving on USS Ranger, Dan’s major accomplishment was the introduction of automatic teller machines (ATMs). Today, these machines are commonplace on carriers. At that time, USS Ranger was one of only two carriers testing this system and Dan was at the forefront, handling over one million in accounts on the newly placed machines. Dan often found himself as the only one between malfunctioning machines and hundreds of USS Ranger sailors eager to have access to their funds. The success of these machines aboard today’s carriers is due to the efforts of Dan.

Dan also served on the Subic Bay Naval Security Force as an M-60 machine gunner. Not only did he earn his expert ribbons in both the M-16A1 and .45 caliber handgun but he was trained to use the 81mm mortar and LAWS rocket launcher as well.

In 1991, just six days after his son was born, Dan made his biggest sacrifice and was deployed to serve in the Gulf War. His efforts while serving displayed loyalty, initiative, and work ethic. It was an honor for him to serve our country.

Daniel Jay Meck leaves countless precious memories. He was our hero. He was our father. He was our friend. He will always be loved, and his memory will continue. Heaven has gained a new soldier, who loves our God and is ready for his new assignment.

Friends and family gathered Dec. 22 at the Ephrata Church of the Brethren to pay final respects.

Memorial contributions in Daniel’s memory may be made to Wounded Warriors Family Support, 11218 John Galt Boulevard #103, Omaha, NE 68137.

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

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Merlyn R. Demmy, 91, EHS grad, Navy medical officer, Wernersville director of psychiatry

Dr. Merlyn R. Demmy, 91, died Dec. 12, 2018 in Buffalo, N.Y.

Dr. Demmy was born in Ephrata on Dec. 11, 1927, a son of the late Raymond B. and Esther M. (Zwally) Demmy. He was the husband of Claire M. (Turner) Demmy who survives him in East Amherst, N.Y.

He is also survived by a son: Todd (Bridget), a thoracic surgeon in Buffalo, N.Y.; and twin grandchildren: Tara and Michael. A brother: Glenn (Shirley); and sister: Lois (Donald) Rohrer, also survive in Lancaster County.

Dr. Demmy was a graduate of Ephrata High School and received a B.S. degree from Franklin & Marshall College following which he served as an instructor in biology at F&M. He received his MD degree and residency training from Jefferson Medical College where he then served as an assistant professor of psychiatry.

Following service as a medical officer in the Navy, he was in the private practice of psychiatry in Philadelphia and Reading. For 20 years prior to his retirement, he served as director of psychiatry and director of clinical service at Wernersville State Hospital (WSH) near his home in Bernville. In October 2014, he was named as trustee on the WSH board of directors.

Funeral arrangements are private at the convenience of the family.

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Beata Jane Shaw, 95, Ephrata native, decorated WWII vet, Health Department nurse, volunteer

Beata Jane Shaw, 95, of West Chester, passed away on Wednesday, Dec. 19, 2018, at SouthEastern Veterans Center.

She was born in Ephrata to the late Weidler and Edna Butzer.

Beata was a U.S. Army veteran, serving as a 2nd Lieutenant Nurse during World War II. She received a Victory Medal and a Meritorious Service Unit Plaque. She was then a Public Health Nurse for the Chester County. Health Department, West Chester, for 18 years before retiring in 1991. She enjoyed gardening and volunteering at the Chester County Health Department, West Chester area elementary schools, and Chester County Day.

Beata is survived by a son: Kenneth Shaw; a daughter: Joanne Coyle; four grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a daughter: Christine Shaw; and a sister: Arlene, wife of Alfred Zinn.

A graveside service will be held on Thursday, Dec. 27 at 2 p.m. at the Bergstrasse Lutheran Cemetery, 9 Hahnstown Road, Ephrata.

If desired, memorial contributions in Beata’s memory may be made to Multiple Sclerosis Society-Greater Delaware Valley Chapter, 30 S. 17th St. #800, Philadelphia, PA, 19103.

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

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Quincy A. Green Jr., 90, U.S. Steel retiree, Reamstown Park groundskeeper, PSD school bus driver

Quincy A. Green Jr., 90, of Stevens, passed away Wednesday, Dec. 19, 2018 at Hospice & Community Care in Mount Joy.

Married for 68 years, Quincy was the loving husband of Martha Joan (Meanor) Green. Originally from Fairless Hills, he was a son of the late Quincy A. Sr. and Cora K. (Houth) Green.

Quincy loved the Reamstown Park. For the past ten years, until May 2018, he spent his summers cutting the park grass, shaping the baseball fields, and taking care of any other maintenance it required. He was a Mason for 55 years, an active member of the Ephrata Lodge No. 665. He was always working and enjoyed his work. Quincy retired in 1979 after 31 years with U.S. Steel. He then drove school bus for Pennsbury School District for 17 years. He enjoyed woodworking, especially building furniture. He will forever be remembered for his quiet generosity and work ethic.

In addition to his wife, Quincy is survived by two daughters: Cheryl L. Cave, wife of Steve, of Levittown; and Cathy Jo Santangelo, wife of David of Denver; five grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.

Relatives & friends will be received on Friday, Dec. 28, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at Good-Sipler Funeral & Cremation Centre, 34-38 N. Reamstown Road, Reamstown; and a Masonic service will begin at 7 p.m., presented by the Ephrata Lodge No. 665.

Memorial contributions are appreciated to the Reamstown Memorial Park Association, 23 E. Church St., Reamstown, PA, 17567, or at reamstownpark.org.

Condolences may be posted at goodfuneral.com. Arrangements by Good-Sipler Funeral Home, Reamstown.

The post Quincy A. Green Jr., 90, U.S. Steel retiree, Reamstown Park groundskeeper, PSD school bus driver appeared first on Ephrata Review.

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