Matthew Harold Reese, 36, of Denver, passed away unexpectedly Monday, Dec. 15, 2014, at his home.

He was born in Reading to Susan G. (Schenck) Reese and Ward W. Reese (fiancé of Deb Hevener), both of Sinking Spring.

Matthew was a 1998 graduate of Cocalico H.S. He worked as a machine operator for Ingham’s Powder Coating in Denver, where he last worked Friday, Dec. 12. He was previously employed as a welder, at Steelco in Sinking Spring, for many years. He loved the woods and western movies, and had a great admiration and respect for members of the Armed Forces.

In addition to his parents, Matthew is survived by a paternal grandmother: LaVerne R. Reese; two brothers: Bradley Scott Reese and Michael Lee Reese, fiancé of Keelie Cooper; and a niece: Jocelyn A. Reese.

Services were held Dec. 20 at Roseboro Stradling Funeral Home, Denver, with Rev. Bill Weiser officiating. Interment took place in the Pleasant View Cemetery.

If desired, memorial contributions may be made in Matthew’s memory, to the Wounded Warrior Project, 301 Grant St., Suite 900, Pittsburgh, PA 15219.

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

Jane (Fassnacht) Mentzer, 89, of Lancaster, passed away Saturday, Dec. 20, 2014, at Ephrata Manor.

She was born in Ephrata to the late John and Helen (Shirk) Fassnacht and was the wife of the late Robert S. Mentzer who passed away in 2005.

She was a member of Bethany UCC, Ephrata. During her working years, she did quality control for the former Ephrata Apparel and Hestoco. She enjoyed her grandchildren, going to Rehoboth Beach and her cat Sam. She was known as Aunt Jane to many.

Jane is survived by two sons: J. Robert Mentzer, companion of Debra Lloyd of Ephrata; and Jay R. Mentzer of Lancaster; a daughter: Jo Ellen, wife of David Walmer of Ephrata; four grandchildren: Jodi, John, Derek and Kelly; and a sister: Jean, wife of Jack Miller of Ephrata.

In addition to her husband and parents, she was preceded in death by a brother: Hank Fassnacht.

A viewing will be held Friday, Dec. 26, from 9 to 10 a.m., at the Stradling Funeral Home, 30 N. 9th St., Akron, followed by her funeral service at 10 a.m., with Rev. William J. LaSalle officiating. Interment will take place in Cedar Hill Cemetery.

Memorial contributions in Jane’s memory may be made to Bethany UCC,140 E. Main St. Ephrata, PA 17522.

The family would like to thank the entire staff at the Ephrata Manor for the excellent care given to Jane.

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

Brian Wesley Ziegler, 46, of Ephrata, died on Saturday, December 13, 2014, at his residence, from injuries sustained in an automobile accident.

Born Nov. 5, 1968 in the Democratic Republic of Congo, he was the son of Donald and Priscilla Roth Ziegler.

Brian was a member of the Akron Mennonite Church. He was a graduate of Ephrata High School and attended Goshen College. He enjoyed a wide range of friends who remember his kind and generous heart.

In addition to his parents, he is survived by a sister: Lara, wife of John Paul Condon of Encinitas, Calif.; two nephews and a niece: Maxon, Dillon, and Alana, whom he loved dearly; and his paternal grandmother: Osie Ziegler.

Services will be announced at a later date. Memorial contributions in Brian’s memory may be made to Akron Mennonite Church Agape Fund, or to the Humane League of Lancaster.

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

Merla I. Lorah, 93, formerly of Reamstown, died at Garden Spot Village, New Holland, Tuesday, Dec. 16, 2014.

Born in Schoeneck, a daughter of the late Alvin and Edith (Weik) Steely, her husband, Robert E. “Patty” Lorah, died Feb. 9, 1990.

An active member of St. Paul’s Evangelical Congregational Church, she supported missionary work and was a Sunday school teacher. Merla worked for Cinderella Knitting Mills for 29 years and loved flowers, plants, cooking, reading and music. Her memberships included Ephrata Women’s Connection and Friendly Circle.

Surviving are sons: Ronald E. (Romaine Shober) Lorah, Melbourne, Fla.; and Ray L. (Jean) Lorah, West Chester; grandchildren: Nadene Beck, Michael, Scott and Zachary Lorah; six great-grandchildren; and a sister: Helen Hirneisen.

Services were held Dec. 20 at St. Paul’s E. C. Church, Reamstown, with Rev. Kirk R. Marks, officiating. Burial followed in Steinmetz Cemetery, Denver.

At Merla’s request, please omit flowers, and consider contributions to the Mission Fund of her church.

Good Funeral Home, Reamstown, is honored to be providing services to Merla’s family. Online condolence may be offered at goodfuneral.com.

Fanna Beth Weaver Reiff, infant daughter of Earl and Anita (Weaver) Reiff, passed away Saturday, Dec. 13, 2014, at Ephrata Community Hospital.

In addition to her parents, she is survived by her siblings: Alaina Jo Reiff, Taylor James Reiff and Owen Jase Reiff, all at home; maternal grandparents: Amos H., husband of Ella Z. Weaver of Ephrata; paternal grandparents: Paul H., husband of Fannie B. Reiff of Elma, Iowa.

Services were held Dec. 19 at the family residence in Lititz, with further services from the Millway Mennonite Church, Groffdale Conference. 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.

Margaret S. Gehr, 91, of Ephrata, passed away peacefully Dec. 24, 2014 at Ephrata Manor.

Born April 20, 1923 in East Cocalico Township, she was the daughter of Abraham and Nora Stoner.

She was an active and faithful member of the Ephrata Church of the Brethren, where she served as the church secretary and administrative assistant for 28 years before retiring. Previously she worked as a secretary at the Douple Insurance Agency, R. U. Fasnacht Insurance Agency, C. P. Wenger Feed Mill, and the Green Dragon Farmers Market & Auction, all of Ephrata.

She was the valedictorian of the Ephrata High School class of 1941. Following graduation she attended Washington School for Secretaries in Washington, D.C.

Margaret especially enjoyed being with her family and being involved in her church, where she and her husband served a number of years as deacons. She also enjoyed cooking, sewing, quilting, reading, gardening and listening to music. Other activities included being a part of the Friendly Circle and volunteering at the Ephrata Area Meals On Wheels.

She was the wife of George S. Gehr of Ephrata, who survives her. She and George celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary on July 10.

Margaret now continues her life of Christian service in the eternal fellowship of her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

In addition to her husband, Margaret is survived by three children: Sarah Elizabeth, wife of Edward Kotwicki, Philadelphia; Marti Epler, Ephrata; and George Douglas, husband of Lillian (Brubaker) Gehr, Ephrata; seven grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.

A funeral service was held Dec. 30 at Ephrata Church of the Brethren, with Pastors Galen R. Hackman and Robert Eshelman officiating. Interment followed at Bergstrasse Lutheran Cemetery, Ephrata.

In lieu of flowers the family requests that memorial contributions be made to either the Ephrata Manor or the Ephrata Church of the Brethren.

Arrangements by Paul L. Gravenor Home for Funerals, Ephrata. To send an online condolence visit gravenorhomeforfunerals.com

Major Howard “Howie” S. Nast, 44, of Denver, passed away Thursday, Dec. 25, 2014, at his home.

He was born in Philadelphia to Howard and Suzanne (Lawless) Nast of Philadelphia, and was the husband of Mary Beth (Keating) Nast, with whom he shared 25 years of marriage.

In addition to his wife and parents, he is survived by his three children: Thomas, Kayla and Erin, all at home; paternal grandmother: Eileen Nast of Philadelphia; and two sisters: Christine Nast and Kelly Nast, both of Philadelphia. He had three nephews and one niece.

He proudly served a total of 25 years with the New Jersey Air National Guard and the Pennsylvania Air National Guard. He was a member of the 193rd Special Operations Wing out of Harrisburg, the most deployed National Guard unit in the country. Howie had numerous deployments that included Desert Shield, Desert Storm, Operation Enduring Freedom, Operation Iraqi Freedom, Operation Enduring Freedom (Afghanistan) and Operation Secure Tomorrow (Haiti).

A visitation will be held Tuesday, Dec. 30, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Roseboro Stradling Funeral Home, 533 Walnut St., Denver. An additional visitation will be held Dec. 31, from 9 to 10 a.m. at the funeral home, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m., at Our Mother of Perpetual Help, 320 Church Ave., Ephrata, with Rev. Father John McLoughlin C.SS.R. as Celebrant. He will be laid to rest with full military honors at Fort Indiantown Gap National Cemetery. Honors provided by the 193rd Special Operations Wing.

Memorial contributions in Howie’s memory may be made to Wounded Warrior Project, 4899 Belfort Road, Suite 300, Jacksonville, FL 32256.

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

Mary J. Troupe, 92, of Ephrata, passed away Tuesday, Dec. 23, 2014 (her husband Jacob’s birthday), after a short illness surrounded by her loving family, at Ephrata Manor.

She was born in Denver to the late Martin and Mary (Taylor) Shober and was the wife of the late Jacob Troupe who passed away in 2006 after 60 years of marriage.

Mary was a member for over 70 years at St. John’s UCC, Denver, where she taught Sunday school, was the Sunday school superintendent and part of the Women’s Guild. She was a former member of the Eastern Star, was a Scout leader, and helped with the Denver Fair. She loved her family and friends and played cards in several groups. She enjoyed bingo and visiting nursing patients. She was always knitting and taking care of her flowers. During her working years, she had worked as a machine operator for Blue Line Hosiery and Wolf Shoe Co.

She is survived by a son: Terry, husband of Judie (Hagy) Troupe; a daughter: Linda, wife of Larry Ruhl; four grandchildren: Lori Good, Todd Troupe, Eric Ruhl, Brenda Fink; eight great-grandchildren; a brother: Richard Shober; two sisters: Ethel Lesher and Pauline Emerick; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to her husband and parents, she was preceded in death by a son: Lyn Craig Troupe; five brothers: Earl, Ralph, George, Ed and John Shober; and four sisters: Grace Kurtz, Helen Gensemer, Arlene Emes, and Edna Messner.

Services were held Dec. 29 at St. John’s UCC, Denver, with Rev. David R. Brumbaugh officiating. Interment will be private at the convenience of the family.

Memorial contributions in Mary’s memory may be made to the American Cancer Society, 314 Good Drive, Lancaster, PA 17603 or Hospice and Community Care, PO Box 4125, Lancaster, PA 17604.

The family wishes to give a special thanks to the nurses of Hospice and Community Care and Ephrata Manor.

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

Howard E. Moyer, 84, Stevens, died with his wife and pastor by his side, Dec. 26, 2014, in Fairmount Homes.
Born in Adamstown, he was a son of Howard C. and Annie C. (Texter) Moyer. His first wife, Gloria (Dobbs) Moyer, died in 1977.
A 1948 Wilson HS graduate, he worked for Glidden Paint and American Chain & Cable, both Reading. Howard attended Parkview Mennonite Church and enjoyed fishing and watching football.
Surviving are his wife of 33 years: Claire E. (McFadden) Moyer; a son; a daughter; five grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.
A sister and brother predeceased him.
Services were held Dec. 30 at Parkview Mennonite Church, Reamstown. Interment followed in Cedar Grove Cemetery, Adamstown.
In lieu of flowers, consider contributions to Howard’s church.
Good Funeral Home & Cremation Centre, Reamstown, handled the arrangements. Online condolences may be offered at goodfuneral.com.

Anna V. Zelem, 92, of Ephrata, formerly of West Sayville, Long Island, N.Y., passed away at home Wednesday, Dec. 24, 2014.

Anna was born in New York, N.Y. She went to Gray East New York High School and was a homemaker.

She is survived by three daughters: Barbara Fisher of New York, N.Y.; Dianne Skilling of Lititz; and Patricia Mitchell of Ephrata; two sons: Daniel D. Zelem Jr., husband of Nancy, of Suffern, N.Y.; and Paul A. Zelem of Ephrata; nine grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; one sister: Josephine “Josie” Tadaro of Brooklyn, N.Y.; and two brothers: Anthony Gambino, husband of Ruth, of Caldwell, N.J.; and Dominick Gambino of West Babylon, N.Y.

In addition to her parents, Anna was preceded in death by one sister: Frances Kaufman.

Rest in peace, beloved Anna Zelem. You were the true definition of a matriarch. Words cannot explain how much you will be missed.

Funeral services will be held at 4 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 3 at Paul L. Gravenor Home for Funerals, 100 W. Main St., Ephrata. The family will receive friends before the service from 1 to 4 p.m. Interment will be private.

Memorial donations may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project at woundedwarriorproject.org.

To send an online condolence, visit gravenorhomeforfunerals.com. Paul L. Gravenor Home for Funerals, Ephrata, was entrusted with the arrangements.

Deborah L. Moudry, 78, of Ephrata, passed away at home Sunday, Dec. 21, 2014.

She is survived by her husband, Michael F. Moudry; one daughter: Melissa B. Black of West Reading; four sons: Timothy L. Black, husband of Denise, of Old Bridge, N.J.; Philip L. Black of Fleetwood; Andrew M. Black of Pleasanton, Calif.; and Matthew G. Black, husband of Theresa, of Tinton Falls, N.J.; 15 grandchildren; one great-grandchild; one stepdaughter: Michele A., wife of Steven Heffner of Ephrata; one stepson: Edward D. Moudry of Morgantown; two step-grandchildren; two sisters: Melanie Racioppi of West Warwick, R.I.; and Lisa Eichhorn of England; and two brothers: Stephen Eichhorn of Chanston, R.I.; and Jeffrey Eichhorn of Point Pleasant, N.J.

Deborah was preceded in death by her first husband: Harold W. Black Jr.; and her parents: Leland and Dorothy (Golly) Gibbs.

Services to be announced will be held at Christ Episcopal Church in Reading and Holy Lutheran Church in Ephrata

To send an online condolence, visit gravenorhomeforfunerals.com. Arrangements were entrusted to Paul L. Gravenor Home for Funerals, Ephrata.

Sally M. Staples, 64, of Ephrata, passed away Tuesday, Dec. 23, 2014, at her residence.

She was born in Union City, to the late Louis and Virginia (Strong) McCrillis and was the wife of Brian M. Staples with whom she shared 43 years of marriage.

Sally was a member of the Bible Fellowship Church, Ephrata. She had worked in customer service for the Loomis Company until her retirement in 2013. She enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren, camping, crafts, church activities including being a greeter and working with the children.

In addition to her husband, she is survived by two daughters: Jennifer, wife of Christopher McCray of Denver; and Erin, wife of Niko Dounelis of Coram, N.Y; five grandchildren: Alexandra, Kerr, Annalee, Christian and Caden; and a sister: Carol Green of Lincolnville.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a son: Todd Staples; a sister: Joan Adsit; and a brother: John McCrillis.

Services were held Dec. 27 at the Bible Fellowship Church, Ephrata, with Pastor Jason L. Hoy officiating. Interment will be private at the convenience of the family.

Memorial contributions in Sally’s memory may be made to Asera Care Hospice, 315 Primrose Lane, Suite 101, Mountville, PA 17554.

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

Dr. Howard D. Eckhart, 89, of Lancaster, passed away peacefully at his home on Christmas Eve, Dec. 24, 2014.

Born in Hopeland on Jan. 9, 1925, he was the son of the late Stuart E. and Maude Dailey Eckhart. He was the husband of Jessie Jones Eckhart to whom he had been married 67 years.

Dr. Eckhart attended a two-room schoolhouse in Hopeland. He graduated from Ephrata High School in 1941 (at the age of 16.) He attended Franklin and Marshall College for one year, and then enlisted in the United States Navy (before the age of 18; he got special permission.) During his time in the Navy, he worked as a technician on the Submarine USS Blenny, SS324 (Pacific Theater) and was stationed in Perth, Australia. He was awarded the Pacific Theater Ribbon, American Theater Ribbon, Victory Medal, Philippine Liberation Ribbon, Commendation Ribbon, Submarine Combat Insignia and the Good Conduct Ribbon.

Dr. Eckhart stayed in the Navel Reserves and, during that time, he completed his bachelor’s degree at Franklin and Marshall College, graduating in 1949. He graduated from the University of Pennsylvania Dental School in 1953 and served as an officer in the U.S. Naval Reserves as a Lt. Commander.

After a solo practice of oral surgery at 616 N. Lime St., Lancaster, his son, Dr. Michael Eckhart, joined him and in a few years helped found Conestoga Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Ltd. in 1988 and practiced there until his retirement in 1991.

He was a member of Kappa Sigma Fraternity (of F&M), Xi Psi Phi Fraternity (a dental fraternity), Omicon Kappa Upsilon Society (a dental honor society), as well as member and past president of the Lancaster County Dental Society, 5th District Dental Society and Middle States Oral Surgery Society. He was a proud recipient of the H. K. Cooper Award in Lancaster.

Dr. Eckhart was also a member of Lancaster Country Club, Lancaster Aero Club, Pirates Club of Lancaster, Ground Hog Lodge, Quiet Birdman Club and former member of Saucon Valley Country Club, Tucquan Club, and Sertoma Club. He was also a member of the National Military Officers Association and a local member of MOAA.

He was an avid golfer and accomplished pilot, and enjoyed skiing, boating, hunting, woodworking, gardening, and traveling with his wife Jessie in their airplanes. He was well known for his “killer” horseradish and enjoyed sharing it with his friends.

In addition to his wife: Jessie; Dr. Eckhart is survived by three sons and their families: Howard S., husband of Bonnie L. Eckhart of Lancaster, and their daughter Katie J. L. Eckhart of Harrisburg; Dr. Michael P., husband of Deborah L. Eckhart of Lancaster, and their children Stephanie L. Eckhart of Salt Lake City, Utah, Suzanne C. Eckhart of New York City, N.Y., and Jennifer E. Eckhart of Baltimore, Md.; and David J., husband of Mary L. Eckhart of Chester County, and their children Derek D. Eckhart of Philadelphia, and D. Jacob Eckhart of Chester County.

He was preceded in death by two brothers: Frank A. and Alvin Eckhart; and a sister: Lola Eshelman.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, Jan. 3 at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, corner of Lititz Pike and Delp Road, Lancaster, at 11 a.m. Friends may call at the church from 10 a.m. until the time of service. Private interment will be in Salem Lutheran Cemetery, Ephrata.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Dr. Eckhart’s memory may be sent to Hospice and Community Care, 685 Good Drive, PO Box 4125, Lancaster, PA 17604-4125.

To send an on-line condolence, visit KaSnyderFuneralHome.com. Kearney A. Snyder Funeral Home, Lancaster, handled the arrangements.

Helen V. Good Haas, 85, Ephrata, formerly of S. Lebanon Township, passed away suddenly at Fairmount Homes Tuesday, Dec. 23, 2014.

She was the wife of the late Eugene O. Haas who passed away March 2011. She was born in Brecknock Township on Sept. 9, 1929, daughter of the late Charles G. and Jennie Kring Good.

She was a lifelong potato chip manufacturer, which were sold at farmers’ markets. She was also employed at Laudermilch Meats, Annville for 24 years and Martin’s Farm Market, Myerstown for seven years. She enjoyed shopping, cooking, and housekeeping. Helen was a member of Hebron United Methodist Church, Lebanon.

Surviving Helen are brothers: Harold, husband of Mabel Good, Reinholds; Donald, husband of Barbara Good, Lancaster; and five nieces and nephews.

Services were held Dec. 29 at Hebron UM Church, Lebanon, Rev. Rodney Miller officiating. Interment was at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery.

Arrangements were entrusted to Porterfield-Scheid Funeral Directors & Cremation Services, Ltd., Lebanon. To share online condolences, visit porterfieldscheidfh.com.

Edith G. “MomMom” Kutz, 83, of West Lawn, went to be with The Lord Dec. 24, 2014 at Berks Heim.

Born in Diamond Station, she was the daughter of the late Amos and Laura (Mohler) Gehman.

Edith was employed as a floor manager for Walter W. Moyer in Ephrata. She and her husband Bill provided loving and compassionate care towards children, babysitting for many families for over 30 years.

Mrs. Kutz was a charter member of Grace Fellowship Church, Point View Ave. of Ephrata and more recently a member of West Wyomissing Chapel. Edith’s family would like to thank the B1 nursing staff of Berks Heim for the loving care they showed towards Edith.

She is survived by her children: Linda E. Reed, wife of David A. of Wyomissing; and Marcia R. Letsche of West Lawn; grandchildren: Amanda M. Batts, wife of Michael E. Batts Jr. of College Park, Fla.; Emily N. Reed of College Park, Fla.; Michael W. and Andrew E. Letsche, and their father Michael Letsche of Gouglersville; and several nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her husband: William E. Kutz; brothers and sisters: Charles, Elmer, Oscar, Howard, Amos, Isaac, Robert, Richard, Emma, and Lillian.

A service will be held at West Wyomissing Chapel, 2055 Reading Blvd, West Lawn, on Friday, Jan. 2 at 11 a.m. The family will receive friends and relatives one hour prior to the service. Interment will follow at Alsace Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Hope Rescue Mission, 745 N. 6th Street, Reading, PA 19601

Bean Funeral Home of Sinking Spring is handling the arrangements. Online condolences may be made at beanfuneralhomes.com

Jean W. Hoke, 91, of Ephrata, passed away in the presence of her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, at the Ephrata Hospital on Friday morning, Jan. 2. A resident for over 20 years of Ephrata Manor, she was the wife of the late William F. Hoke Sr., former chairman, president and CEO of Fulton Bank, who passed away in December 1985.

Born Aug. 14, 1923 at home in Whiteford, Md., she was the daughter of the late Clay Pennington and Marion Stubbs Whiteford. Jean grew up on the family farm, home to the Whiteford Packing Company, the youngest of three children.

Jean graduated from the former Slate Ridge High School in Delta and Towson State Teachers College, Towson, Md. in January 1944. Four months later she and Lt. William F. Hoke (US Army) decided to forego a larger mid-June wedding in Maryland and were married on May 7 in the Army Chapel at Ford Gordon, Ga., in a small ceremony necessitated by an anticipated immediate overseas assignment. The wedding marked the beginning of an extraordinary marriage of over 40 years.

Jean was an elementary school teacher in Oxon Hill, Md. and in York, before finishing her teaching a career at Schaeffer Elementary School in Manheim Township’s Grandview Heights neighborhood. She was a longtime, active member of Westminster Presbyterian Church in Lancaster where she served as a deaconess, taught vacation Bible school and attended Bible studies. Jean was also active in the Daughters of the American Revolution, the Women’s Republican Club and the Lancaster General Hospital Auxiliary where she was a past president. She and her husband were members of the Lancaster Country Club.

Jean will be lovingly remembered by her daughters and daughter-in-law: Carol (Gary) Bauer of Fairfax, Va.; Marian H. (Christopher) Loughridge of Endwell, N.Y.; and Shirley Hoke, of Lancaster; her eight grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. Their visits, calls and pictures were a focus of delight for her and nothing brought her more joy than keeping up on family activities and milestones and amusing stories of the little ones.

She was preceded in death by a son: William F. Hoke Jr.; her sister: Mabel Day; and brother: Scott Whiteford.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a memorial service in celebration of her life at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 2151 Oregon Pike, Lancaster, on Saturday, Jan. 17 , at 2 p.m. with Rev. Dr. Michael A. Rogers officiating. Immediately following the service the family will receive visitors and light refreshments will be provided. Private family interment will be held at Slateville Cemetery, Delta.

If desired, the family requests that memorials be sent in Jean’s memory to Westminster Pulpit, the radio ministry of the church which allows shut-ins to hear wonderful teaching of God’s word and was a blessing to Jean in her later years. Gifts may be sent in care of Westminster Presbyterian Church, 2151 Oregon Pike, Lancaster, PA 17601.

Arrangements were entrusted to Groff Funeral Home, Lancaster.

Lydia Mae Weaver Nolt Sensenig Shaffer, 87, of Akron, passed away Sunday, Jan. 11, 2015, at the Ephrata Community Hospital.

She was born in East Earl Township to the late Reuben and Martha (Hurst) Weaver and was the wife of Ernest Shaffer for 17 years.

Lydia was a member of the Ephrata United Zion Church. She was a member of the church sewing circle and New Holland Senior Citizens. Over the years, she was employed by Victor F. Weaver Poultry, Spring Glen and Ephrata Re-Uzit. She enjoyed quilting, sewing and embroidery.

She is survived by two sons: Ivan W. Jr., husband of Erla (Zimmerman) Nolt of Terre Hill; Alvin, husband of Frances (Spade) Nolt of Quarryville; three daughters: Rose Ann, wife of Robert Esch of Denver; Lois, wife of the late Melvin Esch of Ephrata; Darlene W., wife of Gary Varner of Reinholds; six step-children: Sharon, wife of Donald Griffith of Ephrata; Wanda, wife of John Lutz of Reamstown; Ernest Shaffer Jr. of Calif.; Leslie, husband of Judy Shaffer of Fla.; Allen Shaffer of Akron; Anna Hartranft of Ephrata; 13 grandchildren; 32 great-grandchildren; one great-great grandchild; 12 step-grandchildren; 20 step-great-grandchildren; three brothers: Reuben, husband of Ella Weaver of Ephrata; Clarence Weaver of Denver; Henry, husband of Irene Weaver of Reinholds; four sisters: Laura, wife of the late Harvey B. Martin of Ephrata; Elva, wife of Henry Martin of Lebanon; Martha, wife of Menno Hoover of Ephrata; Irene, wife of Aubrey Steffy of Akron.

In addition to her parents she is preceded in death by her first husband: Ivan W. Nolt who passed away in 1980; her second husband: Lloyd Sensenig who passed away in 1995; a daughter: Evelyn W. Nolt; an infant grandson: Randy; a step son: Lloyd G. “Sonny” Sensenig Jr.; three brothers: Adam, Raymond and Leroy Weaver; five sisters, Barbara Martin, Marion, Alice, Mary and Elizabeth Weaver.

A viewing will be held Thursday, Jan. 15, from 4 to 8 p.m., at the Ephrata United Zion Church, 408 E. Fulton St., Ephrata. An additional viewing will take place Friday, Jan. 16, from 1 to 2 p.m., at the church, followed by her funeral service at 2 p.m., with Pastor Jay Showalter officiating. Interment will take place in the Fairview Cemetery, Annex, Denver.

Memorial contributions in Lydia Mae’s memory may be made to Hospice & Community Care, P. O. Box 4125, Lancaster, PA 17604.

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

John N. Van Horn, 92, of Ephrata, passed away Saturday, Jan. 10, 2015, at the Ephrata Community Hospital.

He was born in Plainfield, N.J. to the late John P. and Sarah E. (Trimmer) Van Horn and was the husband of Patricia (Metternich) Van Horn.

John was of the Catholic faith. He worked for Anchor Motor Freight as a car carrier driver, was a member of the Teamsters, Marine Corps League of New Jersey, enjoyed carpentry, woodworking, smoking cigars and was an avid John Wayne fan. John served in the US Marine Corps during WWII, building landing strips for airplanes in the South Pacific.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by two sons: Mark, husband of Maria (Hernandez) Van Horn of Queen Creek, Ariz.; Tony, husband of Haley (McComb) Tomaio of Las Vegas, Nev.; two daughters: Mary, wife of Richard McComb of Adamstown; and Julie, wife of Dan Ward of Lancaster; three grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his first wife: Constance (Lynch) Van Horn; two brothers: Gerold and Roland Van Horn; three sisters: Doris Chaky, Helen Van Horn, and Wilma Outcalt.

A viewing will be held Wednesday, Jan. 14, from 6 to 8 p.m., at the Stradling Funeral Home, 30 N. 9th St., Akron, followed by a time of sharing by family and friends. Interment will take place in the Fairview Cemetery, Westfield, N.J.

Memorial contributions in John’s memory may be made to the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation, Gift Processing Administrator, 18251 Quantico Gateway Drive, Triangle, VA 22172.

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

Joseph Francis “Joe” Pfund, 55, New Holland, died unexpectedly Jan. 9, 2015, of natural causes.

Born in Horsham, a son of the late George and Sarah (Giovinazzo) Pfund, he was raised in the Catholic faith.

A Garden Spot High School graduate, he owned and operated Joe’s Auto & Cycle Repairs, Fivepointville, for over 30 years.

Surviving are his soul mate: Crystal Louser; son: Anthony V. Pfund, partner of Amanda Eckert, Narvon; and grandsons: Kole Vincent and Russell Brayden Pfund; and Dawson and Kayden.

A brother, George, predeceased him.

A “Time of Sharing” will be held Wednesday, Jan. 14, at 1 p.m. from Good Funeral Home, Reamstown, with burial to follow in Bowmansville Union Cemetery.

Good Funeral Home and Cremation Centre, Reamstown, handled the arrangements. Online condolences may be offered at goodfuneral.com.

Robert (Bob) S. Bloom, 88, of Lancaster, passed away Jan. 7 at Homestead Village. Robert was a graduate of Franklin & Marshall College, class of 1947. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1943 through 1946. Robert started Colebrook-Terry, Inc. in 1950 with 25 employees. The company grew to five plants with a peak of 450 employees. The plants were located in Akron, Brownstown, Colebrook, Leola and York. The business closed in 1996.

Mary E. Byers, 94, of New Holland, passed away Jan. 6. She was born in Terre Hill. Mary was employed at Garden Spot High School cafeteria from 1964 until her retirement in 1982. Mary was an active member of the Pilgrim Bible Church and enjoyed bird watching, playing piano, flower gardening and playing her favorite card game from childhood, Muggins.

Anthony “Tony” Colatta Jr., 76, of Leola, passed away Jan. 9 at his residence. Tony was the owner/operator of Colatta Beverage in Leola from 1977 until his retirement in 1994. Tony was a member of Our Mother of Perpetual Help Catholic Church in Ephrata. He also taught Qi Gong at various places around the area including the YWCA, and was an avid LCHS football fan along with the Phillies and Notre Dame. His daughter, Tonyah Colatta-Rigney, wife of Scott Rigney, lives in Stevens.

Carlos Augusto Da Fonseca, 46, of York, formerly of Akron, died Jan. 5 at Hershey Medical Center of natural causes. Carlos was a self-employed landscaper. Carlos could brighten any room with his handsome smile and witty jokes. He was born in Boco Vagos Aveiro, Portugal and was of the Catholic faith.

Mike A. Duncan, 52, of Lititz, passed away at Lancaster General Hospital Jan. 11. Mike had been employed by Johnson & Johnson, Lititz for 33 years as a manufacturing production coordinator. Mike enjoyed spending his time playing darts, fishing, and recently began playing golf. His son, Anthony White, lives in Ephrata.

John P. Gilbert Jr., 82, of Lititz, passed away Friday, Jan. 9, at Maple Farm. He was a life member of the Adamstown VFW Post 8795. John enjoyed hunting, fishing and going to the mountains. John worked as a tow motor operator for J.L. Clark for 33 years before he retired in 1994. He served his country in the US Army during the Korean War.

Eli S. Glick, 57, Bird-In-Hand, passed away Jan. 11 at Northwest Texas Hospital, Amarillo. Eli was a lawn furniture maker and a member of the Old Order Amish Church. His son, Aaron Jay, husband of Susie Marie King Glick, lives in Stevens

Clyde J. Hoppert, 64, of Lancaster, died Jan. 6 at Hospice & Community Care, Mount Joy. Clyde was a member of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church in Lancaster, and was employed as an injection molding supervisor. An avid cook, he loved gardening and watching the Steelers and Flyers. He was very involved in his family’s lives, especially his grandchildren’s sporting events. His daughter, Sheri L. Weichler, and her husband Tom, live in Ephrata.

Emma M. Musser, 77, of Narvon, died Jan. 10 at Reading Hospital & Medical Center. Born in Ephrata, she was a homemaker and a member of Pine Grove Mennonite Church, Bowmansville. She was an avid gardener. Her sister, Mary Keppel, lives in Reinholds. A sister Dorothy, married to Joel Lindburg, lives in Ephrata. Her brother, Richard and Robert Mohler, live in Adamstown and Akron, respectively.

Ruth S. Sheaffer, 89, formerly of Elliottsburg and Newport, died Jan. 9 at the Rheems Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Elizabethtown. She was a member of Mt. Gilead United Methodist Church, Shermans Dale. Her sisters, Shirley Pfautz and Orvilla Oberholtzer, live in Ephrata.

Fannie B. Smucker, 89, of Narvon, passed away Jan. 5 at Hospice & Community Care, Mount Joy. A homemaker, Fannie spent many happy hours sewing crafts for various stores in the area. She was a member of the Old Order Amish Church. A son, Elmer L., husband of Katie (Esh) Smucker, lives in Denver. A daughter, Fern L., wife of Samuel Beiler; and son Benuel L., reside in Stevens.

Jesse L. Townsley Jr., 89, formerly of Westwood, passed away Jan. 9 at Fairmount Homes, Ephrata. He was the beloved husband of Dolores E. Townsley, with whom he shared 64 years of marriage. Jesse was employed by Richard A. Armstrong Co. of Romansville as a drill press operator, retiring in 1990. He was a member at Towerville Christian Church. His daughter, Yvonne Snow, wife of Rev. M. Craig, lives in Stevens.

Allen B. Zimmerman, infant son of Ammon H., Jr., and Jane N. (Burkholder) Zimmerman, died Jan. 5 at Children’s Hospital of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia. He was one week old. His maternal grandparents, Ivan S. and Lizzie Z. Burkholder, live in Ephrata.

Elizabeth H. Zimmerman, 78, of East Earl, died Jan. 7 at the home of her daughter Lucinda Hoover. Elizabeth was a homemaker and a member of the Bowmansville Mennonite Church, Groffdale Conference. Her brother, Aaron H., married to Dorothy (Zimmerman) Martin; and a sister, Anna M., married to Reuben Ringler, all live in Denver.