Caroline (Treisch) Lesher, 94, died May 17 at the Denver Health & Rehabilitation Center.She was born in Hinkletown to the late Winfield Scott and Lottie Schaffer Treisch and was the wife of the late Charles S. Lesher, who died in 2011, after 71 yea...
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Caroline Lesher, worked at Bollmans, homemaker
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Robert C. Lutz, 84, Clover Farms, Balthaser worker
Robert C. Lutz, 84, of Denver, formerly of Vinemont, passed away Saturday, May 18, 2013 at Conestoga View Nursing Home in Lancaster.He was the husband of Gladys L. (Wenzel) Lutz. Robert's first wife, the late Betty (Texter) Lutz, passed away in 1995.Ro...
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Michael Curtis Lutz, 59, was self-employed home builder
Michael Curtis Lutz, 59, of Ephrata, passed away Friday, May 17, 2013, at Golden Living Center of Reading.He was born in Reading to Virginia (Phillips) Lutz and the late Gilbert Lutz.Michael worked with his father in his asphalt paving business. He was...
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Kenneth L. Martin, former Warwick Twp., police chief
Kenneth L. Martin, 64, of Lititz, died peacefully following a courageous battle with cancer Tuesday, May 14, 2013 at Hospice and Community Care, Mount Joy with his wife by his side.
Born in Ephrata, he was the son of Erma (Shafer) Martin and the late Paul S. Martin. Ken was the loving husband of Anita (Kulp) Martin and they would have observed their 19th wedding anniversary in June of this year. Ken retired as an armored truck driver from Brinks Inc. Previously; he was employed at Luther Acres Retirement Community, Lititz and earlier served in the Warwick Township Police Department as sergeant and chief. A 1966 graduate of Ephrata Senior High School, he was a life-long hunter and fisherman, and a faithful and active member of the Brunnerville Hunting Camp in Potter County. He was also a life member of the National Rifle Association, the North American Hunting Club and a past member of the Ephrata Pioneer Fire Company.
Ken, affectionately known as "Pa Pa," was adored by his grandchildren and will be sadly missed by friends and family. His other interests included spending time with his family and friends at Buttonwood Beach, his boat known as "Hammerhead," working in his yard and flower gardens, watching NASCAR driver Mark Martin and rides in the truck with his beloved beagle dog Lucy.
Surviving in addition to his wife and mother, are two daughters: Denise L. Martin of Glen Allen, Va., Joanne L., wife of Troy G. Bender of Ephrata; a son: Matthew A., husband of Jennifer (Hartl) Martin of Ephrata; a step son: T. Cody Strubel of Lititz; three grandchildren: Tyler Martin, Shelby Martin, Emily Bender; a sister: Bernice, wife of the Reverend Jerry Ruff of Mt. Sidney, Va., three brothers: Ronald "Chuck," husband of Carol Martin of Sicklerville, N.J.; Jay, husband of Deb Martin; and Ray, husband of Gale Martin all of Ephrata. Preceding him in death is a sister: Sandra Mantyla.
Relatives and friends attended his memorial service at the Buch Funeral Home May 18. Interment will be private and at the convenience of the family.
Those desiring may send contributions in Ken's memory to the American Lung Association 3001 Old Gettysburg Road, Camp Hill, PA 17011. To send the family on-line condolences, please visit buchfuneral.com.
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Daniel M. Wile, 51, Denver, was respiratory therapist
Daniel M. Wile, 51, Denver, died Thursday, May 16, 2013, at Hospice & Community Care, Mt. Joy.He is survived by his wife, Ruth Ann (Weaver) Wile, with whom he would have been married 22 years on June 8.Born in Souderton, he was the son of Mary (Moy...
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James M. Zimmerman, 55, outdoorsman, camp pres.
James "Zimmy" M. Zimmerman, 55, of Ephrata, Pennsylvania, died unexpectedly Sunday, May 12, 2013, surrounded by family and friends.
He was born in Paradise Township, and was the son of the late Hershey Kurtz Zimmerman, Jr. and Ruth Erma Witmer Zimmerman.
He attended Pequea Valley High School, graduating in 1977. While in high school, he participated in wrestling. He also played softball for several years with the VFW.
After high school, he worked at Budd Company, Trojan Yacht and had just celebrated his 20-year anniversary working for Brubacher Excavating.
Zimmy's true passion in life was being in the mountains and he inspired a generation of young hunters and outdoorsmen. He was an avid hunter and fisherman and was president of the Zimmerman Hunting Camp in Tioga, with bear season being his favorite time of the year.
Although he loved the mountains, nothing brought him more happiness than being with his family and lifelong friends. He lived for spending as much time with his sons as he could and was actively involved in their wrestling and football programs while they attended high school. More recently, his role as Pop Pop to his grandson, Landon, brought him immeasurable joy.
He always put others first and would do anything in his power to create amazing memories from the simplest of times. He knew the value of family and made it a priority, not just in words, but in the way he lived his life. While he was a strong man, he was generous with his affection and never hesitated to express his love with hugs and kisses and "I love yous." His compassion and caring for others extended beyond his death as he will help many others through his decision to be an organ donor.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his niece, Ashley Nicole Smith.
He will be lovingly missed by his two sons: James M. Zimmerman, fiancé of Victoria Rae Martin; and Zachary P. Zimmerman; and his grandson: Landon Isaiah Zimmerman. He is also survived by his brother: Hershey and Jeanette Zimmerman, III, Lancaster; sister: Pauline and Thomas Caldwell, Quarryville; sister: Judy Wiley and Kirk Groff, Peach Bottom; brother: John Zimmerman, Ephrata; sister: Anna Ruth and Terry Hartman, Denver, N.C.; sister: Beth and Don Smith, Willow Street; 11 nieces and nephews and 11 great-nieces and nephews, who will all miss him dearly.
A celebration of Jim's life will be held June 16 at The Roland Park in Akron at noon.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in his name to the Ephrata Elementary Wrestling Program, c/o Ephrata Recreation Center, 130 S. Academy Dr., Ephrata, PA 17522. Online condolences may be posted at groffeckenroth.com. The Groff-High Funeral Home, New Holland is assisting the family.
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Deaths of local interest
John Brendle, Jr., 85, of New Holland, died at Lancaster General Hospital Thursday, May 16, 2013, following a brief illness. Local survivors include his son: Terry L., married to Patricia Brendle, Ephrata, and his sister: Carolyn, married to Philip Harting, Adamstown.
Anna M. Hershey Erwin, 78, of Manheim, died peacefully surrounded by family Wednesday, May 15, 2013 at the Pleasant View Retirement Community. She was a member of the Early Bird Walkers of the Walking Club of Ephrata.
Edna M. Gingrich, 89, of Womelsdorf, passed away Thursday, May 16, 2013, at her home, after a brief illness. She was the wife of the late Paul L. Gingrich who died on July 14, 2001. Her sister Pauline Newswanger lives in Akron.
Samuel J. Horning, 80, Goodville, died Friday, May 18, at Zerbe Sisters Nursing Center. His wife, Mabel R. (Rhoads) Horning, survives. They observed their 53rd wedding anniversary on Feb. 6. In addition to his wife, he is survived by a daughter: Debra, married to Clarence Brubaker, Ephrata; and a sister: Gloria Freeman, Ephrata.
Gladys E. Spade, 98, formerly of Brewster Drive, Lancaster, passed away Friday, May 17, 2013. Gladys was the wife of the late Clifford M. "Bud" Spade who passed away in 1980. Her daughter, Lynda Brian, widow of William, lives in Ephrata.
Arlene M. Witmer, 91, of West Earl Twp., died Saturday, May 18, 2013 at Conestoga View Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, Lancaster. Her son, Barry L., husband of Barbara C. Snyder lives in Brownstown.
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Fernando Alvisi, 80, skilled handyman, welder, inventor
Fernando Alvisi, 80, of Stevens, went home into the arms of his Lord and Savior, Jesus, Friday, May 17, 2013, at Hospice & Community Care, Lancaster.
He was born in Castagna Vecchia, province of Castel Castagna, Italy to the late Abondio and Anna (DiGiuseppi) Alvisi and was the husband of Jean Elizabeth Burkholder Zimmerman Alvisi.
He attended Ephrata Mennonite Church. Fernando was a skilled handyman and inventor. He was employed by The Budd Company as a maintenance worker while being self-employed as a welder. In this second position, he made fire escapes, decorative wrought iron banisters for staircases, and wrought iron spiral staircases. After his retirement from The Budd Company, he devoted his time as a landlord to his many properties which were located in Chester and Lancaster counties. He enjoyed golfing, bocce and bowling.
In addition to his wife, Fernando is survived by a son: Fernando "Fred," Jr., husband of Tonya (Ickes) Alvisi of Coatesville; two daughters: Deborah Alvisi Rodgers, wife of Timothy of West Chester; and Tina Alvisi Trimble, wife of Robert of Ephrata; a brother: Marco Alvisi of West Chester; grandchildren: Josh and Dan Rodgers; Leah Smith; and Bobby Trimble; and one great-grandchild: Gracie Marie Smith.
He was preceded in death by an infant brother; sisters: Filomena of Argentina; Antonietta of Italy; Leontina of Canada; and Desolina of West Chester; and his first wife: Marjorie (Zamberti) Alvisi, who died in 2003.
A viewing will be held at the Ephrata Mennonite Church, 510 Stevens Road, Ephrata, on May 22 from 6 to 8 p.m. and Thursday from 9 to 10 a.m. followed by funeral services at 10 a.m. with Pastor Jack Scandrett and Pastor Robert Garrett officiating. Interment service will take place in the St. Agnes Cemetery, West Chester, at 3 p.m. on Thursday.
If desired, memorial contributions in Fernando'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.
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Nikolaus Kampen, Lititz, was finishing carpenter
Nikolaus Kampen, 73, Lititz, peacefully passed away into the arms of his Jesus Wednesday, May 15, 2013, at his residence.He was born in the Ukraine to the late Martin and Katharina (Regier) Kampen and was the husband of Edith (Zimmerman) Kampen with wh...
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Robert N. Whitcraft, 81, vet, Sperry machinist
Robert N. Whitcraft, 81, of Ephrata, passed away Friday, May 17 at Ephrata Manor.
Robert's wife, Nellie (Crago) Whitcraft preceded him in death Feb. 18, 2012.
Born in Ephrata, he was the son of the late Samuel and Cora Whitcraft.
He was a machinist for 41 years at Sperry Rand, currently Ford New Holland, retiring in 1991.
He was a chartered member of the New Holland Church of the Nazarene, where he was a Sunday School teacher and also served on the church board. He served in the Air Force during the Korean War.
Surviving are four children: Keith R. Whitcraft, married to Vicky (Herrin), East Earl; Liana Whitcraft, Ephrata; Brian F. Whitcraft, New Holland; and John "J.D." Whitcraft, Ephrata; five grandchildren: Shawn Reich, Christina Hess, Derrek Reich, Chad Whitcraft, Brandon Whitcraft; and five great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by four siblings: Sam Whitcraft, Anna Mae (Whitcraft) Brugger, Betty (Whitcraft) Kyle and Nancy (Whitcraft) Smith.
A viewing will be held at the Groff-High Funeral Home located at 145 W. Main St., New Holland Thursday, May 23 from 7 to 9 p.m. The funeral service will be held Friday, May 24 at 10 a.m., with a viewing preceding the service from 9 to 10 a.m. at the New Holland Church of the Nazarene, located at 428 Ranck Rd., New Holland. Pastor Ken Mingledorff and Chaplain Sally Maxwell are officiating. Interment will be in Pleasant View Cemetery, Sinking Spring.
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Joyce (Rhen) Grosh, watch co. employee, prof. organist
Joyce (Rhen) Grosh, 83, a resident of Moravian Manor and formerly of Ephrata, passed away Friday, May 31, 2013 from pulmonary fibrosis as a result of interstitial pneumonia which she contracted on vacation in 2001.
Born in Lititz to the late Richard H. and Minerva "Laura" (Smith) Rhen, Joyce is survived by her loving husband, William Kilgore Grosh, M.D., to whom she was married almost 61 years.
A 1947 graduate of J.P. McCaskey High School, Joyce attended Lancaster Business College and was employed in the personnel department of the Hamilton Watch Company. After Bill and Joyce were married at the First Reformed Church of Lancaster and at the beginning of Bill's third year in medical school, Joyce and Bill lived in Philadelphia where Joyce was responsible for interviewing and hiring women for the Home Insurance Company.
Joyce's lifelong love of music began in third grade when she studied piano and eventually the clarinet in high school and later played the electronic organ professionally. In her later years, Joyce shared her talent playing the organ at Lancashire Hall for 12 years. Having been taught the classics, Joyce learned to play popular music from Bob Stetler and Charles Buckwalter (a popular Lancaster band leader). Joyce and Bill also enjoyed their travels, visiting 46 different states and 41 countries.
In addition to her husband, Joyce is survived by her brother: Richard S. Rhen; two sons: Thomas Rhen Grosh of Lititz and James Kilgore Grosh and his wife Ellen of Ann Arbor, Mich.; four grandchildren: Austin and Jared of Lititz and Katie and Laura of Ann Arbor.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt appreciation to the nurses and staff at Moravian Manor who went above and beyond in their care of Joyce.
Services will be private and at the convenience of the family.
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Dr. Richard Keiper, 97, WWII vet, chiropractor
Dr. Richard Jacob Keiper, 97, devoted husband of Helen Hernley Keiper, went home to be with his loving Lord Monday, May 27, 2013 at the Mennonite Home in Lancaster.He was born in Ephrata Feb. 14, 1916 to the late Alvin Wesley Keiper and Mary Oberholtze...
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Stanley E. ‘Skip’ Kline, 82, Mt. Airy, started Red Rose Building Systems
Stanley "Skip" E. Kline, 82, of Mt. Airy, passed away Sunday, June 2, 2013, at Ephrata Manor.
He was born in Mt. Airy to the late Paul N. and Elsie B. (Eberly) Kline and was the husband of Myrleen (Bingeman) Kline, with whom he shared 63 years of marriage April 2, 2013.
Skip was a member of the Hopeland United Methodist Church, Lititz, where he was a former Sunday school treasurer. He was a member of the Ephrata Lodge #665 F.&A.M., Lancaster Lodge of Perfection, Reading Consistory, Mt. Airy Fire Company and Mt. Airy Hunting Camp. During his working years, Skip was as a self-employed plasterer, worked for the former Wickes Lumber, started the Red Rose Building Systems and most recently enjoyed working at Horst Auctions with his grandchildren. Skip enjoyed family time at the beach.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by his four children: Richard S. Kline, companion of Ann Tribioli of Lititz; Rhonda S., wife of Gary Pike of Ephrata; Roger S., husband of Lynne (Grill) Kline of Ephrata; Renee S., wife of Tim Horst of Lititz; seven grandchildren; Major Michelle Kline, Ph.D.; Chivonne Weaver; Brent, Matt and Derek Horst; Laura Kline and Brandon Pike; one great-granddaughter: CharLee Weaver; and a sister: Lucille Dinger.
A memorial service will be held Sunday, June 9, at 2 p.m. at the Hopeland United Methodist Church, 295 N. Clay Road, Lititz, with Rev. David Ryan and Youth Pastor Russ Eberly officiating. The family will receive friends after the memorial service. Interment will be private at the convenience of the family in the Hopeland Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions in Skip's memory may be made to the Hopeland United Methodist Church, 295 N. Clay Road, Lititz, PA 17543.
Arrangements by Stradling Funeral Homes, Inc., Akron/Ephrata. Online condolences can be given at stradlingfuneralhome.com.
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Edith S. Leed, 86, hair stylist and seamstress
Edith S. (Schannauer) Leed, 86, of York, formerly of Denver, passed away Friday, May 31, 2013, at Wellspan Health, York Hospital ICU.She was born in Stevens to the late Harvey and Elsie G. (Gockley) Schannauer and was the wife of the late Charles R. Le...
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Marion F. Nagle, 61, was secretary at Elanco Chiro.
Marion F. Nagle, 61, of Ephrata, passed away Friday, May 31, 2013 after a lengthy illness.Marion was a longtime Ephrata resident and worked as a Secretary for Elanco Chiropractic, Inc. of Ephrata.She is survived by her son: Jack Nagle of Akron; two sis...
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Readith V. Petery, 90, Dutchmaid seamstress
Readith V. Petery, 90, of Denver, passed away Thursday, May 30, 2013, at her residence.She was born in Stevens to the late Raymond and Erla (Meisky) Showers and was the wife of the late Lester E. Petery, who died in 1999.Readith worked as a seamstress ...
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Gladys N. Ranck, 98, of Ephrata, was seamstress
Gladys N. Ranck, 98, of Ephrata, formerly of Honey Brook, died Monday, May 27, at Ephrata Manor.Her husband, George L. Ranck, preceded her in death in 1983.Born in Philadelphia, she was the daughter of the late Elam and Deborah (Kauffman) Neuhauser.She...
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Kathryn Z. Styer, 93, Brownstown resident
Kathryn Z. Styer, 93, of Brownstown, passed away Wednesday, May 29, 2013, at the Reading Hospital.She was born in West Earl to the late Jacob and Elizabeth (Zimmerman) Burkholder.Kathryn is survived by three children: Gerald L., husband of Marjorie Sty...
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Russell Eugene Weachter, High Steel retiree, athlete
Russell "Russ" Eugene Weachter, 73, of Akron, went peacefully to his final home Friday, May 31 surrounded by his family.
He was under hospice care when he lost the battle with heart disease and diabetes.
Born in Rothsville, he was the son of the late Howard S. and Gladys Ehrhart Weachter. He was married to Phyllis Marie (Foltz) Weachter in April of 1960 at Jerusalem Lutheran Church in Rothsville. They were married 53 years.
Russell was a retired crane operator, employed 25 years at High Steel Structures, Inc., Lancaster. He received a service award in 1999. Prior to that, he worked at the former Miller Hess Shoe Company for 25 years. Russell was a member of the United Methodist Community Church of Oregon. He played slow-pitch baseball with various teams in Ephrata and Lititz and played against the famous King and His Court. He went to state championship at Williamsport with Hilltop Inn, Ephrata. He also played basketball in Ephrata and Lititz, playing against the Harlem Magicians. He was also a pitcher for High Steel slow-pitch.
In the past, he was an avid trapper with his son Greg. He also loved to go to public sales. He was an avid Eagles and Phillies fan. Russ and his wife Phyllis had an outside stand at Green Dragon, Old Mill Flea Market (Roots) and Leesport Farmers Market for 15 years. He loved swimming and summer picnics with his family even after losing a leg to diabetes.
Russell is survived by his wife: Phyllis; his son: Gregory S. Weachter, husband of Karen of East Petersburg; and one grandson: Derek S. Weachter. He is deeply missed by a sister: Darlene Steely; and Vernon Steely of Mt. Airy; two brothers: Howard S. Weachter and wife Darlene of Lititz and Dennis Lee Weachter and wife Patricia of Lititz as well as several nieces and nephews.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt appreciation to the nurses and staff at Fairmount Homes who went above and beyond their care of Russ until his loving son Greg made his wish come true to come home.
Private inurnment will be at the convenience of the family.
If desired, memorial contributions in memory of Russ, may be made to the United Methodist Church of Oregon, RD #3, Lititz, PA 17543.
Arrangements by Stradling Funeral Homes, Inc., Akron/Ephrata. Online condolences can be given at stradlingfuneralhome.com.
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Jesse D. Roberts, Ephrata EMT, Warwick graduate
Jesse D. Roberts, Jr. of Lititz, passed away Wednesday, May 29, 2013.Born in Pottstown, he is the son of Emma Sheeler Roberts, Lititz, and the late Jesse D. Roberts, Sr. He is the husband of Jaime Zerr Roberts.A graduate of Warwick High School, Jesse w...
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