William Jay Oberholtzer, 82, Adamstown, died Feb. 15, 2016, in Ephrata Community Hospital.

Born in Denver, he was the son of the late John B. and Maggie (Lausch) Oberholtzer.

He was a Korean War Army corporal and last worked for T.M.I. Construction. “Jay Bird” was a life member of Adamstown VFW and enjoyed working on cars. Surviving are daughters, Ruby L. (Bryan) Goshert, Carlisle; and Rita L. (John) Ruoss, Denver; son: William J. (Kathy Kolling) Oberholtzer Jr., Zephyrhills, Fla.; eight grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren.

He was predeceased by a son: Raymond L.; grandson: Raymond Oberholtzer; sister: Thelma Schnader; and brothers: Davis, Robert and Donald. J.

Services were held Feb. 20 at Good Funeral Home and Cremation Centre, Reamstown. Private inurnment was in Muddy Creek Cemetery, Swartzville.

Online condolences are welcome at www.goodfuneral.com. Good Funeral Home and Cremation Centre, Reamstown, was entrusted with the arrangements.

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Esther R. Boll, 81, passed away Sunday, Feb. 21, 2016, at her daughter’s residence in Myerstown.

She was born in Clay Township to the late Earl and Edna (Redcay) Eberly. She was the wife of the late Norman Boll who died in 1992; and Lester Witmer, who died in 1969.

Esther attended the Reinholds United Zion Church, and enjoyed traveling, and spending time with her family. Esther worked as a waitress for the Cloister Restaurant in Ephrata.

Esther is survived by three daughters: Darlene, wife of Fred Hartranft, of Denver; Deborah, wife of John R. Schaeffer, of Myerstown; Tammy, wife of Dave Reimer, of Millersville; five grandchildren; two step-granddaughters; six great-grandchildren; five step-great-grandchildren; two brothers: Elam and Eli; and four sisters: Eva, Edith, Erma, and Elaine.

A viewing will be held Sunday, Feb. 28, from 3 to 6 p.m., at Roseboro Stradling Funeral Home, 533 Walnut St., Denver, and from 10 to 11 a.m., Monday, at the Reinholds United Zion Church, 305 West Route 897, Reinholds, where funeral services will follow, with Pastors Leon Eberly and Eli Eberly officiating. Interment will take place in the Mount Airy Cemetery in Clay Township.

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

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Ross R. Sponagle, 77, of Ephrata, died Monday, Feb. 15, 2016, at Hospice and Community Care in Mount Joy.

He was the husband of Lynda J. (Reichert), to whom he was married for 56 years.

Born in Wyomissing, he was the son of the late Russel and Miriam (Reddig) Sponagle. He retired as the plant manager with the former Cinderella Knitting Mill in Denver, where he worked for nearly 45 years. He also worked for Stauffer’s of Kissel Hill in the coffee department for several years. Ross proudly served in the U.S. Army, and was a wonderful and caring husband, father, and grandfather who provided greatly for his family. Ross enjoyed fishing and spending time with his family.

In addition to his wife Lynda, he is survived by his children: Shaun A. Sponagle, husband of Christina, of Lititz; Kim A. Shertzer of Ephrata; and four grandchildren: Sloane and Ethan Sponagle; and Kayla and Madison Shertzer.

Memorial services will be held Monday, Feb. 29, at 7 p.m. from the Charles F. Snyder Jr. Funeral Home and Crematory, 3110 Lititz Pike Lititz. Interment with military honors will be held privately at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery, Annville.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Lancaster County Sheriff’s Department K-9 Unit, 50 N. Duke St., Lancaster, PA 17602 in his memory.

Share online condolences at SnyderFuneralHome.com. Charles F. Snyder Jr. Funeral Home and Crematory, Lititz, had charge of the arrangements.

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Thomas R. Ellis Jr., 47, of Lititz, passed away Feb. 18 at Lancaster General Hospital. He worked as an electrician at Specialty Bakers in Lititz for five years. His brother, Michael T. Ellis, resides in Akron.

Kenneth Richard Frey, 89 of Lancaster, passed away peacefully Feb. 21 at Lancaster General Hospital. Ken served in the Army, having been the last man drafted from Lancaster County following World War II. He was a self-employed contractor in both carpentry and drywall, retiring in 1989. Retirement brought years of enjoyment marketing nutritional supplements, traveling, gardening and cooking. His son, Kevin Frey, husband of Marcia, is a former Ephrata resident.

Elizabeth E. “Betty” Fry, 90, of Maple Farms Nursing Center, Akron, formerly of Neffsville passed away peacefully Feb. 23. Betty was a cook for the former Neffsville Café and American Legion Post No. 34. She also enjoyed babysitting for others in her own home. She found enjoyment in volunteering for Trinity Lutheran Church, and participated in their sewing circle.

Ella B. High, 98, formerly of Manheim, went home to be with her Lord Feb. 25 at Landis Homes Retirement Community. A homemaker, Ella worked in her earlier years at the Bomberger’s Store in Elm, and part-time at the Manheim Auto Auction. Her interests included gardening, traveling and she loved to spend time with her family. A brother, Luke, husband of WillaMae Sauder, lives in Ephrata.

Anna O. Kurtz, 86, of Myerstown, passed away Feb. 27 in her home. She was the wife of Norman H. Kurtz to whom she was married for 65 years. She was a member of the Martins Mennonite Church of the Weaverland Conference. Her sisters, Mabel, wife of Ivan Horst; and Mary, wife of Ivan Hurst, live in Ephrata.

Georgia L. Prentice, 67, of Manheim, formerly of Hatboro, passed away Feb. 26 at Bob Fryer and Family Inpatient Center in Mount Joy. She was employed as an administrative assistant by Procter & Gamble in Hatboro for nearly 15 years, and by Weyerhaeuser in Ephrata for more than 10 years. In addition to reading and solving crossword puzzles, she enjoyed traveling and camping. Her daughter, Paige, wife of Jeffrey Formicone, lives in Reinholds.

Marilyn L. Stoltzfus, 60, of Leola, went to be with Jesus on Feb. 24. She owned and operated her own commercial cleaning service. A member of the Worship Center, she liked gardening, games, puzzles; and especially liked spending time with family. Her son, Derek, married to Lori Stoltzfus, lives in Ephrata.

Carl R. Stoner, 67, of Lititz, passed away Feb. 26 at Hospice & Community Care in Mount Joy. Carl worked for Yellow Freight as a truck driver for 30 years. He was a great husband and father and loved spending time with his family especially at the shore at Ocean City, Md. He also loved classic cars. His son, Tim Kashner, lives in Ephrata; son Mike Stoner resides in Stevens. His brother, Dale Stoner, husband of Janet, lives in Brownstown.

Patricia J. Wolf, 76, of Lancaster, went home to be with her Lord Feb. 27. Pat enjoyed being a Girl Scout, earning various badges and became a troop leader. For many years, she also helped to formulate a scouting program for girls in the Lancaster inner city area, and was dedicated to helping girls have a Girl Scout learning experience with the hope of improving their lives. She loved music, gardening, drawing, genealogy, fishing, reading and visiting her family and friends. Her daughter, Lisa Wolf Werner, wife of Jeffrey K. Werner, resides in Ephrata.

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Keith F. Bell, 67, of Denver, died of natural causes Feb. 15, 2016.

He was born in New Jersey and was the son of June and Joseph LaSala.

Surviving are his brother: Karl LaSala; his daughters: Eileen Bell Foglio and Laurie Bell Reinhart; and his best friend: John Heigh.

He was preceded in death by his sister: Karen Bell; and brother: Kevin LaSala.

Keith was a member of New Life Assembly of God. He was a man of God who ministered to inner city youths of Lancaster. He gave and loved endlessly. He was a blessing to many families for more than 30 years. He became family to all and formed friendships that transcend time. As Keith would say, “Love never Ends,” “For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten son, that whoever believeth in Him shall not perish but have everlasting life” John 3:16. His unrelenting faith in God gave him the courage to minister when all else failed.

Keith was a Vietnam veteran in the U.S. Army. He was proud to serve his country. Keith worked for Quality Truck Lines in Denver for 18 years. He loved being on the open road but always came back home for his ministry.

Surviving are his brother: Karl LaSala; his daughters: Eileen Bell Foglio and Laurie Bell Reinhart; and his best friend: John Heigh.

He was preceded in death by his sister: Karen Bell; and brother: Kevin LaSala.

A memorial services was held Feb. 27 at New Life Assembly of God, Lancaster. The funeral will be held on a later date that will be posted through Facebook.

To leave an online condolence for the family, visit LancasterCremations.com. Cremation Services of Lancaster handled the arrangements.

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Satish Tipirneni, 77, formerly of Ephrata, passed away Feb. 9, 2016.

He was born Oct. 18, 1938.

Satish lived in Ephrata since 1987. He worked as a manufacturing engineer at American LaFrance, and retired in 2011.

He is survived by his wife: Swathanthra Lakshmi; sons: T. Viswanath, BS, MBA; and Dr. T. Satayajit; daughters-in-law: Dr. Apunpama and Dr. Padmaja; grandchildren: Suchita, Mahadev, Uma, and Ravi; and many friends and relatives.

An 11th Day Ceremony was held Feb. 21 in Louisville, Ky.

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Robert M. Weatherholtz Sr. passed into the arms of the Lord on Tuesday, Feb. 23, 2016, at the age of 83.

Robert was a disabled Korean War Veteran and loving father. He is survived by his brother: Charles Weatherholtz; son: Robert; daughter: Robin; five grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.

Robert was a colorful character in the Brownstown area and was known for his outgoing personality, generosity, and love of animals. All his life, he loved anything with an engine. As a retired truck driver, he loved driving and working on cars, trucks, and Harleys.

A graveside service will be held at the Trumbauer Memorial Cemetery, 18 Quarry Road, Leola, on Saturday, March 5, at 11 a.m.; followed by a memorial service to celebrate his life at Carpenter Community Church, 378 Glenbrook Road, Talmage, at noon; with greeting time March 5 following the service.

Furman Home for Funerals, Leola, had charge of the arrangements. Online condolences may be offered at FurmanFuneralHome.com.

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Helen L. Bowman, 89, of Ephrata, passed away Monday, Feb. 22, 2016, at Wellspan Ephrata Community Hospital.

She was born in Ephrata to the late Leroy and Bessie (Shiffer) Wolf, and was the wife of the late George H. Bowman.

Helen graduated from Ephrata High School and Rider University. She was a member of the First United Methodist Church, Ephrata, and had been the church secretary until her retirement. She had been an avid bowler and enjoyed Wii Bowling in the past few years. She also enjoyed playing cards, especially pinochle.

Helen is survived by son: Robert, husband of Rita Bowman; daughter: Georgene, wife of Robert Schall; grandson: Brandon, husband of Vanessa Bowman; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents and husband, she is preceded in death by her four siblings: Betty (Wolf) Callihan, Robert Wolf, Clara (Wolf) Rudy, and Gladys (Wolf) Grube.

A memorial service was held Feb. 29 at the Stradling Funeral Home, Ephrata, with Pastor Walter Carter officiating. Interment took place in the Memory Gardens Memorial Cemetery.

Memorial contributions in Helen’s memory may be made to First United Methodist Church, 68 N. Church St., Ephrata, PA 17522.

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

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James Edwin Winters III, 71, of Lititz, died Tuesday, Feb. 23, 2016, at Ephrata Community Hospital.

Born in Washington, D.C., he was the husband of the late Carol (Balthaser) Winters; and the son of the late James E. Winters Jr. and Clarice (Buechley) Winters.

James was a U.S. Army veteran, having served from 1966 to 1969. He was a member of VFW Post No. 1463, Lititz; Elks of Ephrata; AMVETS Post No. 136, Ephrata, where he also served as commander for two years; Axel Snappers of Ephrata; and the Antique Automobile Club of America in Hershey.

James retired in 1999 from Donnelly Printing, where he worked 14 years in the maintenance department. Prior to that, he was a shop foreman for Heill Co. for 14 years. Post-retirement, he worked as a service officer for AMVETS of Indiantown Gap.

He enjoyed listening to oldies music and riding his golf cart on Buttonwood Beach in Maryland. He loved to travel to new places and caring for the fish in his aquarium. He was a member of St. John’s United Church of Christ in Denver.

James is survived by his fiancée: Vivian Showers of Lititz; two sons: William Scott Winters, and his fiancée Valerie Brymeser, of Carlisle; and Bradley James Winters, and his wife Abby, of Lititz; five grandchildren; and two brothers: Keith Winters of Michigan; and William Winters of Middleburg, Fla.

A memorial service was held Feb. 27 at Charles F. Snyder Jr. Funeral Home and Crematory, Lititz, with Pastor Dave R. Brumbaugh officiating. Inurnment, with full military honors, followed in Moravian Cemetery, Lititz.

Kindly omit flowers. Memorial contributions in James’ memory may be made to AMVETS, Dept. of Pennsylvania Service Foundation, 3 Fort Indiantown Gap, #3-97, Annville, PA 17003.

To place a condolence online, visit SnyderFuneralHome.com. Charles F. Snyder Jr. Funeral Home and Crematory, Lititz, had charge of the arrangements.

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Richard W. Sweigart, 84, of Akron, passed away Thursday, Feb. 25, 2016, at Fairmount Homes.

He was born in Honey Brook to the late Howard and Thelma (White) Sweigart; and was the husband of Gloria (Gabron) Sweigart, whom he was married 59 years.

Richard was a member of the Middle Creek Church of the Brethren. He was a people person and a jokester, loved spending time with his grandchildren and great grandchildren, was a West Virginia University football fan, along with the Philadelphia Phillies and the Eagles. Richard worked in the track maintenance department of the Reading Lines and Conrail railroads, until his retirement.

In addition to his wife, Richard is survived by son: Richard W. Sweigart Jr. of Rothsville; daughter: Brenda, wife of Jerry Burkholder, of Lebanon; two grandchildren: Brandon, husband of Danelle Burkholder, of Richland; Brett, husband of Andrea Burkholder, of Lititz; three great-grandchildren: Hunter, Brynn, and Makenna; sister: Shirley Sweigart of Honey Brook.

He was preceded in death by a stepson: Kenneth Gabron; and a brother: Howard Sweigart.

Services were held March 1 at Middle Creek Church, Lititz, with Pastor John Hess officiating. Interment was in the Middle Creek Brethren Cemetery.

Please omit flowers, and consider making a memorial contribution in Richard’s memory to Fairmount Homes Benevolent Fund, 333 Wheat Ridge Drive, Ephrata, PA 17522; or to Hospice and Community Care, 685 Good Drive, 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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Betty J. Adams, passed away at the age of 88 on Friday, Feb. 19, 2016, and was greeted at the gates of Heaven by her Lord and Savior and was told, “Well done, my good and faithful servant.”

She spent most of her life caring for people around her and wanting to help those in need.

She is survived by a son: Dennis Adams, married to Barbara; a daughter: Darlene Adams; two granddaughters: Nedra Lahr, wife of Burdette; Shellie Ogletree, fiancé of Britney Lawler; grandson: Lee Adams; three great-grandsons: Nathan, Timothy and Jacob; one niece; two nephews; and friend and caregiver: James Howk.

In 1989, my mom, Betty, and her friend Greta and I bought a 25-room farmhouse. We rebuilt it inside, and then rented rooms to hundreds of people over the years that no one else would help. Betty was a blessed and sweet-hearted person, a rock of a foundation that would stand by anyone no matter what. Every morning approximately 5 to 6 a.m., she would walk through the house and rest her hand on every door and doorway and pray for all those who lived there.

Upon entering the home, you would be greeted with Christian music that played 24 hours a day. Even though many came in as unbelievers, there were still many who left believing. Many people stayed short periods, and some stayed as long as 14 years.

She taught me so much over the years, and many others that had passed through her home. She became a mom and a grandma to all that lived there. There were even times she helped me with my photography business, and became part of the American Business Women’s Association.

On every major holiday a hot fresh meal was prepared for everyone in the home and invited family and guests. At Christmas time, a stocking was hung and a gift was found under the tree. Christmas dinner was prepared and served to all that came. She always said, all were welcome. No one was ever left out in the cold, or ever left hungry. Today the ministry home still runs as it has for the past two decades.

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to a memorial service to be held at the Grace Point Church of the Nazarene, 110 Durlach Road, Ephrata, on Saturday, March 5, at 11 a.m. The family will receive friends at the church from 10 a.m. until the time of service. Any donations can be made at the church on March 5.

Online condolences may be posted at thegroffs.com. Groff Funeral and Cremation Services, Lancaster, handled the arrangements.

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Emmett Franklin Glass, 88, of Akron, passed unexpectedly yet peacefully, due to a stroke, in the Lancaster General Hospital on Sunday, Feb. 28. He was surrounded by his family.

He was a member of Zion Lutheran Church in Akron, having served on the cemetery board. He was a resident of Garden Spot Village for two and a half years. While living there, he made many friends among the residents and staff.

He was predeceased by his wife: Constance (Nier) Glass; his eldest son: Gregory Glass; and his parents: Robert and Lillian Glass.

Emmett was born Feb. 3, 1928. He was raised in Adamstown and graduated from Shillington High School. He also graduated from Albright College where he earned a degree in mathematics with a minor in physics. He loved sports and excelled in both baseball and basketball. Being very athletic and skilled at baseball, he was scouted by both the Detroit Tigers and the Philadelphia Phillies farm systems during his college years. In 1951 he was inducted into the Army Chemical Corps.

He married Constance on Oct. 14, 1955. They built their home and raised four children in Akron. Emmett’s career as an engineer spanned 36 years at Ford New Holland. His skills and expertise as an engineer were recognized in the 36 patents that were issued in his name. He was a brilliant and detail-oriented individual.

Emmett is survived by his daughter: Jeanette Leid and her husband Mike, of Denver; his son: Robert Glass and his wife Martha, of Wernersville; his son: Jeffery Glass of Akron; his daughter-in-law: Linda Glass, Lititz; his three grandchildren: Adam, Michael, and Alexandra Glass, of Nottingham, Md.; and his two step-grandchildren: Rebecca Leid of Williamsport; and Philip Leid of Richmond, Va. He is also survived by his beloved companion of many years: Gloria Lammy of Flint, Mich.

Emmett spent almost every summer at a family cottage located on Manitoulin Island, Ontario, Canada. While there he enjoyed fishing, water skiing, boating, and visiting with friends and family. He was an avid golfer and his love of the sport was shared with his children. He enjoyed watching sports and attending Hershey Bears hockey games with his family. Emmett also enjoyed big band music and jitterbug dancing. Time spent with family was important to him. Birthdays and holidays were cherished times to celebrate and spend time with his loved ones.

A viewing will be held Friday, March 4, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the Zion Lutheran Church, 435 Main St., Akron, followed by his funeral service at 7:30 p.m., with Pastor Matthew Lenahan officiating. Interment will be private at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Heart Association, 610 Community Way, Lancaster, PA 17603.

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

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Thomas John Legath, 68, of Lancaster passed away Friday, Feb. 26, 2016, at Hospice and Community Care, surrounded by his loving family following a long, courageous journey battling neuroendocrine cancer. He is now in the presence of God.

Tom was married to Vicki (Miller) Legath, his college sweetheart at Kutztown University. They recently celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary on Oct. 25, 2015.

Surviving in addition to his wife is a son: Thomas Meade Legath of Sinking Spring, married to Jennifer E. (Berta); and a daughter: Tara Elizabeth (Legath) George of Lancaster, married to William R. George. Three beautiful grandchildren were the light of his life: Ava Rose Legath, Colin Thomas Legath, and Taylor Rose George. He is also survived by his brother: Eugene Legath of Allentown; his mother-in-law: Shirley Parker of Mount Joy; and many nieces and nephews whom he loved dearly, also survive him.

Tom’s family will always cherish summer vacations in Avalon, N.J. He loved spending time at the beach with his family and friends, dancing with his grandchildren, and driving in his convertible with the top down.

Tom was born in Allentown, Lehigh County to the late Rose (Isaacson) Legath and Ulrich John Legath. He was predeceased by an infant brother.

He graduated from Dieruff High School in Allentown and was drafted into the United States Army in 1967. Tom completed basic training at Fort Bragg, N.C.; and was then assigned to advanced infantry training at Fort Benning, Ga. He completed riot control training at Fort Campbell, Ky. On April 4, 1968, when Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated in Memphis, Tenn., Tom was a member of the unit assigned to riot control in Memphis. For 13 months from 1968-1969, Tom proudly served his country during the Vietnam War in the 199th light infantry brigade.

After serving in Vietnam, Tom earned an associate’s degree in business from Lehigh County Community College. He graduated from Kutztown University with a bachelor’s degree in elementary education and later earned a master’s degree in education administration from Lehigh University. Tom began his teaching career at Moser Elementary in the Allentown School District, where he taught fourth, fifth, and sixth grades. From 1985-1988, Tom was assistant principal at Washington Elementary School in the School District of Lancaster. He served as principal of Akron Elementary School in the Ephrata Area School District (EASD) from 1988-1998, becoming Director of Elementary Education in EASD for three of these years. In 1998, He was named principal of Clay Elementary School in EASD until his retirement in 2008. He was particularly proud of the school expansion and renovation project, which took place at Clay in 2003-2004.

Tom had a deep passion and pride in the school, students, and staff at Akron and Clay schools. Throughout his career, he was loved by staff and students. Everyone welcomed his wonderful hugs and smiles. After retirement, Tom worked as an adjunct instructor at Harrisburg Area Community College in Lancaster.

Tom was a past president and member of the Kutztown Optimist Club. He coached youth soccer, basketball, and baseball in the Kutztown and Manheim Township communities. Through the 1970s, Tom was a PIAA basketball referee in Lancaster and Berks counties. He was a member of St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, where he served on Church Council from 1994-1996.

The family would like to especially thank the following people for their care of Tom throughout his illness: Dr. Roger Cohen and Dr. John Kucharczuk (Abramson Cancer Center, Hospital of University of Penn); Dr. Larry Kaiser (Temple University Medicine); Dr. Randall Oyer (Ann B. Barshinger Cancer Center); nurses and staff on 6 East (LGH); the entire staff of Hospice and Community Care.

A visitation will be held at Charles F. Snyder Jr. Funeral Home & Crematory, 3110 Lititz Pike, Lititz, on Sunday, March 6, from 5 to 8 p.m. Friends may call again on Monday, March 7, at St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, 10 Delp Road, from 9:30 to 11 a.m., with a funeral service to follow at 11 a.m. with Pastor Craig Ross officiating. Interment with full military honors will be in St. Peter’s Lutheran Church Cemetery, 62 Valley Road, Neffsville.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Tom’s memory to Hospice and Community Care of Lancaster County, 685 Good Drive, Lancaster, PA 17604-4125; or the Veteran’s Honor Park of Lancaster County/Warwick Township, 315 Clay Road, Lititz, PA 17543.

Online condolences may be given at snyderfuneralhome.com.  Charles F. Snyder Jr. Funeral Home & Crematory, Lititz, handled the arrangements.

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Franklin D. Weidner, 81, of Denver, passed away Sunday, Feb. 28, 2016, at Denver Health and Rehabilitation Center, after a four-year battle with pulmonary fibrosis.

He was born in Berks County, the youngest of six sons, to the late Harry F. and Bessie (Miller) Weidner.

Franklin was a graduate of West Reading High School. He then served in the U.S. Army. He also served as an officer for the VFBA and the Reamstown Athletic Association Franklin enjoyed Philadelphia sports teams especially the Eagles, watching old movies, and Saint Bernards. He also enjoyed traveling. His last trip was to Alaska with his grandson, Ryan. Franklin was a great dad, honest, caring, detail-oriented, and a person with strong opinions. Franklin worked as a linesman technician for AT&T for 42 years prior to his retirement.

Franklin is survived by two daughters: Kimberly Weidner of Denver, and Pamela Weidner of Stevens; and a grandson: Ryan Weidner of West Reading; and former wife: Arlene M. of Reading.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by five brothers.

Services were held March 7 at the Roseboro Stradling Funeral Home, Denver, with Pastor Timothy L. Craven officiating. Interment followed in the Indiantown Gap National Cemetery.

Memorial contributions in Franklin’s memory may be made to the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation, 230 E. Ohio St., Suite 304, Chicago, IL 60611.

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

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Robert A. Meier Sr., 93, of Stevens, passed away Monday, Feb. 29, 2016, at United Zion Retirement Community, Lititz.

He was born in Obfelden, Switzerland, to the late Robert and Ida (Schneebli) Meier; and was the husband of the late Mildred (Yost) Meier.

Robert was a member of the Church of the Apostles United Church of Christ, Lancaster. During his working years, he was a supervisor at Armstrong World Industries, where he received the Armstrong Suggestion Award, bringing a record amount in 1970 and he received a patent for this. He was a World War II veteran, serving in the U.S. Navy on the USS Wilkes from 1941 to 1947. He enjoyed golfing and was a member of the Lebanon Valley Golf Course.

Robert is survived by a son: Robert A. Jr., husband of Deborah Meier, of Stevens; a daughter: Maurina Roether of Stevens; grandchildren: Ronald Roether; Denise, wife of John Durling; Robert III, husband of Lara Meier; Michaela, wife of Matthew Helfer; great-grandchildren: Sammy III, Erich, Carson, Allysa, and Elliana; and a brother: James Meier of Brighton, Mich,

In addition to his wife and parents, he was preceded in death by a sister: Betty Wolf.

Services were held March 3 at Stradling Funeral Home, Ephrata, with the Rev. Kathryn L. Kuhn officiating. Interment was in the Riverview Burial Park, Lancaster.

The family would like to thank the staff at United Zion Retirement Community for their excellent care given to their father.

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

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Robert E. “Bob” Deibert, 72, of Lititz, passed away March 4 at the Lancaster General Hospital surrounded by his loving family. Bob worked at PP&L in Lancaster for 32 years. After retiring, he enjoyed driving school bus for Shultz Transportation for 14 years. Bob loved spending time at their beach house in Pot Nets near Rehoboth Beach, Del., where he enjoyed fishing, crabbing and clamming. He loved people and always found the good in everyone. His daughter, Kristy Deibert, lives in Ephrata.

Stephen S. Esh, 88, of Fairmount Homes, Ephrata, formerly of Churchtown, entered the presence of the Lord March 5 following a lengthy illness. He worked for many years as a shop foreman at C.U. Stoltzfus Manufacturing, retiring in 1992. Steve was on the pastoral team at Red Run Mennonite Church for 11 years prior to his retirement. A wonderful husband and family man, Steve loved to spend time with his wife, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was married to Esther (Zook) Esh for 63 years.

Marian S. Risser, 87, of Lititz, passed away March 5 at Richland Christian Home. She was a member of Erb Mennonite Church, Lititz. She was a past president of the ladies auxiliary for E.A.R.S. She enjoyed sewing, quilting, embroidery and traveling. Her son, Clarence Jr., husband of Denise (Burkholder) Risser, lives in Denver. Her brother, John, husband of Martha High, resides in Reinholds.

Dennis A. Weller, 63, of Lancaster, passed away unexpectedly on March 6 at Lancaster General Hospital. Dennis was the president of Burle Business Park for 25 years, and involved in many volunteer and philanthropic endeavors. He was a Mason and Past Master of Manheim Lodge No. 587 several times, as well as a member of Lancaster Lodge of Perfection and Harrisburg Consistory. Dennis loved the outdoors and completed his Wild Turkey World Slam with a bow in St. Cloud, Fla., this past spring. His daughter, Gretchen (Weller) Stevenson, and her husband Andrew, live in Akron.

The post Deaths of Local Interest – March 9, 2016 appeared first on Ephrata Review.

Edwin S. Auker, 82, of 312 E. Mohler Church Road, Ephrata, passed away Sunday, March 6, 2016, at Wellspan Ephrata Community Hospital after a brief illness.

He was born in Hahnstown to the late Ammon B. and Mary (Shaub) Auker, and was the husband of Mary (Zimmerman) Auker.

Edwin was a member of the Denver Mennonite Church. He retired in 2010 from Stoltzfus Cabinet Shop in Talmage as a cabinet installer.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by a son: Donald Ray Auker of Lebanon; two daughters: JoAnne Z., wife of Merlin Boll, of Ephrata; Lois Dawn, wife of Mark Myer, of Leetonia, Ohio; 12 grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; three brothers: Ivan, husband of Minnie (Stauffer) Auker, of Ephrata; Thomas Auker of Ephrata; John, husband of Naomi (Martin) Auker, of Mt. Pleasant Mills; eight sisters: Lizzie Mae, wife of the late David M. Weaver, of Liverpool; Grace, wife of Daniel M. Stauffer, of Leonard, Minn.; Sara, wife of the late Luke S. Zimmerman, of Mt. Pleasant Mills; Ruth Auker of Port Trevorton; Edna Auker of Port Trevorton; Miriam Auker of Ephrata; Ellen, wife of Alvin S. Zimmerman, of Lydonville, N.Y.; Nancy, wife of Wayne B. Stauffer, of Port Trevorton.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a grandson: Ryan Boll.

A viewing will be held on Thursday, March 10, from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m., at the Denver Mennonite Church, 95 Monroe St., Denver. Funeral services will be held Friday, March 11, at 10 a.m., at the church. 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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Robert C. Justice, 80, of Denver, passed away Thursday, March 3, 2016, at Zerbe Sisters Nursing Center Inc. in Narvon.

He was born in Monroe, Va., to the late Lloyd M. and Hattie Elizabeth (Tull) Justice; and was the husband of Lois V. (Gehman) Justice, with whom he shared 62 years of marriage.

He was a member of the Reamstown Church of God where he served as treasurer, choir director, Sunday School teacher, and played on the church softball team. He also played in league softball for the Bollman Hatters’ fast pitch softball team. He was very supportive of his children and grandchildren and attended many of their activities over the years. He was also an avid Phillies and Eagles fan. Robert worked in the inventory control department for the former Sperry New Holland for more than 30 years prior to his retirement.

In addition to his wife, Robert is survived by four children: James D., husband of Nancy (Armstrong) Justice, of Mercersburg; Sandra J., wife of late Robert Cox, of Whitehall; Larry A., husband of Christine (Blackman) Justice, of Haw River, N.C.; and Karen S., wife of the Rev. Joel Hainley, of Denver; eight grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.

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

Services were held March 7 at Reamstown Church of God, Stevens, with Pastors Arthur Karick, Marcus Abernethy, and Joel Hainley officiating. Interment was in the Muddy Creek Cemetery.

If desired, memorial contributions in Robert’s memory may be made to the Reamstown Church of God Building Fund, 400 Pfautz Hill Road, Stevens, PA 17578.

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

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Melvin W. Snader of Terre Hill, formerly of Leola, died peacefully at the home of his daughter on March 3, 2016.

He was born in East Earl Township to the late Aaron Z. and Katie Wise Snader; and was the husband of Miriam Weaver Martin Snader, and formerly the husband of 50 years to the late Yvonne R. Heidelbaugh Snader, who passed away in 2008.

Melvin was a member of Zion Lutheran Church, Leola. He was a U.S. Army veteran. He was plant superintendent of Kurtz Brothers Concrete in Ephrata and later Eastern Industries Inc. He eventually retired from Martin Limestone. He enjoyed hunting and fishing and was a long-time member of Echo Valley Hunting Camp in Lycoming County. Melvin spent many happy years with wife Yvonne at their beach home in Bethany Beach, Del.. He enjoyed playing baseball and ice hockey and was a Phillies and Flyers fan.

Melvin is also survived by two daughters: Tracy Fox of Lititz, and Michele Snader of Harrisburg; two grandsons: Colin Fox of Brunnerville and Zachary Fox of Lititz; two brothers: Ray (husband of Dolores Snader), and Ken (husband of Mary Ellen Groff Snader); four sisters: Ruth (wife of the late Howard Weber and Raymond Getz), Anna (wife of the late Wilmer Burkhart), Faye (wife of Earl Martin), and Kathleen (wife of Chester Hurst); five step-children; nine step-grandchildren; and five step-great-grandchildren.

Preceding him in death are brothers: Lloyd (husband of Irene Snader) and Aaron Jr. (husband of Lucy Snader); and a sister: Vera Mae Zimmerman (wife of Ivan Zimmerman).

Services were held March 7 at Zion Lutheran Church, Leola. Interment followed in the adjoining cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to: Hospice and Community Care, P.O. Box 4125, Lancaster, PA 17604-4125; or the Alzheimer’s Association, 3544 N. Progress Ave., Suite 205, Harrisburg, PA 17110.

Furman’s Funeral Home, Leola, handled the arrangements. Online condolences for Melvin’s family can be offered at FurmanFuneralHome.com.

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She was a loving and crazy woman who loved her Westerns as much as she enjoyed the casino.

She is survived by her husband Mike of 39 years, her mother Ginger, daughters Ginger and Jamie, grandchildren Alexus, Kayla, Cody, Steven, Brandon, and Kristen, her sisters Doris, Debbie, and twin sister Connie, and many nieces, nephews, and friends. Bonnie was a ball of fire who earned the name “Queen of Oildale.” She will be missed by many.

Fly high with the angels, momma.

We love you.

Services were private at the convenience of the family.

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

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