Click a letter of the alphabet to view the obituaries for a surname that starts with that letter.
Skip over navigation
A
Ba-Baz
Be-Bez
Bi-Bo
Br-By
C
Da-Dez
Di-Dy
E
Fa-Fi
Fl-Fy
Ga-Gl
Go-Gy
Haa-Haz
Hea-Hez
Hi-Hof
Hog-Hz
I
J
Ka-Ke
Ki-Kn
Ko-Kuz
La-Lem
Len-Ly
Ma-Mc
Me-Mi
Mo-My
N
O
P
Q
Ra-Rey
Rh-Rz
Saa-Sc
Se-Sh
Si-Sq
Sta-Sti
Sto-Sz
T
U
V
Wa-Wel
Wem-Wy
X
Y
Z
Mary Bealer, 99, of Quakertown, formerly of Pleasant Valley died April 29, 2003 at LifeQuest Nursing Center, Quakertown. She was the wife of the late Earl Bealer. Born in Springfield Township she was the daughter of the late Titus H. & Lizzie (Campbell) Cressman. She was a member of Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church, Pleasant Valley. She is survived by three sons, Paul J. of Hanover, Raymond C. of Dunnellon, Fla., and Walter M. of Perkasie; two daughters, Edna M. Shup of Coopersburg and Alice S. Lear of Emmaus; sixteen grandchildren, twenty-eight great grandchildren, eight step-grandchildren and two step great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by three sons, Howard, Harold, and James and a granddaughter. Services were held May 2. Interment was in Pleasant Hill Cemetery, Springfield Township. Memorial contributions can be made to Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church, 2170 Rt. 212, Coopersburg, PA 18076. Online Memorial Tributes: www.heintzelmanfh.com. Arrangements: Heintzelman Funeral Home Inc, 326 Main St., Hellertown, PA 18055.
[Source: Saucon News, May 8, 2003. Submitted by: Nancy McD.]
The remains of Nehemiah Bean, a veteran of the Mexican war, whose death was reported in a previous issue of the EAGLE, were interred at the St. John's church burying ground, Rev. M. Peters officiating. A large concourse of friends and relatives attended. Company E, 4th Regiment N. G., attended the funeral in a body.
[Source: Reading Eagle, Wednesday, January 1, 1879. Submitted by Peggy.]
William L. Bean Sr., 94, of RD3 Tamaqua, died Tuesday at Gnaden Huetten Hospital, Lehighton. Born in Montgomery County, Sept. 18, 1907, he was a son of the late David G. and Mary Ann Kulp Bean. He retired in 1980 as a self-employed painter in Berks County. He was a member of St. Thomas Reform Church, Reading. He was preceded in death by his wife, the former Pauline M. Printz; two sisters, Grace Snyder and Esther Bauchman; a brother, Harold. Surviving are three sons, Ronald and William L. Jr., both of Reading, and Robert L., with whom he resided; three daughters, Doris Heltzinger, Sinking Spring, Bonnie Lutz, Cape May, N.J., and Mary Ann Seifert, Reading; two stepdaughters, Fern King and Frances Boyer, both of Reading; three brothers, Herbert, Portland, Maine, and Russell and Warren, both of Reading; a sister, Betty Bean, Reading; nine grandchildren; six great-grandchildren. Services will be private. The Rev. Joseph Galko will officiate. Interment will be private. Robert S. Nester Funeral Home Inc., RD2 New Ringgold, is in charge of arrangements.
[Source: Pottsville Republican, January 30, 2002. Submitted by: Nancy.]
Bear--On the 21st inst., in Oley, Amanda H., wife of William S. Bear, and daughter of Daniel Knabb, dec'd, in the 20th year of her age. The relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend her funeral at Fridensburg, on Wednesday, the 24th inst., without further notice.
[Source: Reading Eagle, March 22, 1869. Submitted by: Nancy.]
Bear -- Near Hamburg, February 13th, Elizabeth Bear, wife of John Bear, aged 44 years, 10 months, and 21 days.
[Source: Berks and Schuylkill Journal, February 28, 1874. Submitted by: Nancy.]
Mrs. Sallie M. Bear, 65, of 33 W. Park Ave., Neffs, retired school and music teacher, died at 7:05 p.m. yesterday at home. She was in failing health about three months. Born in Hereford Township, Berks County, she was a daughter of the late George and Emma (Kepler) Welker. She was married to Francis G. Bear. She was graduated from Perkiomen Seminary and Keystone Normal School (Kutztown State Teachers College) in 1910. She taught in elementary schools in Weisenberg and Washington townships of Lehigh County and in Hereford Township. She also taught piano at home for many years. Mrs. Bear was a member of the Evangelical and Reformed congregation of Neffs Union Church and its Sunday school, where she was pianist in the Adult Class for 20 years, and a member of the Missionary Society; Ladies Auxiliary of Neffs Fire Co., and Gold Star Mothers, Allentown. Surviving besides her husband are a son, Russell P., Allentown; two sisters, Katie, wife of James Weiss, Philadelphia, and Clara, Norristown; a brother, Abram J., Wyncote, County, and two granddaughters. A son, Willard, was killed in military service in 1943. Services will be at 11 a.m. Saturday in Neffs Union Church.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Wednesday, April 3, 1957, page 7. Submitted by Jerri.]
Among the local survivors of Theresa Beard, 94, Cumru Township, who died Feb. 2 in Reading Hospital, where she had been a patient three days, is a son, Jeremiah Beard, Bernville.
[Source: Hamburg Area Item, February 12, 2003. Submitted by: Nancy McD.]
Services were held for Eva F. (Butkovic) Beaver of Rome, Bradford County, formerly of Gilbertsville, who died November 8 at her son's home in Rome. She was born in Philadelphia. Beaver worked at Keystone Electronics in Pennsburg for 12 years. She was a member of St. Columbkill's Catholic Church in Boyertown. Surviving are two sons, William Beaver of Rome and Charles Beaver of Boyertown. Also a sister; seven grandchildren; and 13 great-grandchildren. Burial was in Highland Memorial Park Mausoleum. The arrangements were by the Maryott-Bowen Funeral Home, Towanda.
[Source: Boyertown Area Times, November 14, 2002. Submitted by: Nancy McD.]
Abraham B. Bechtel died at his late residence, 1150 Franklin, this forenoon. Deceased was stricken with paralysis about 5 weeks ago while out driving and his condition gradually grew worse. He was born and raised in Hereford township and was engaged with his father at that place in the general store business. Later on he managed the forge at Forgedale. upon his retirement from that business he entered into the live stock business and followed that occupation until about 2 years ago, when he retired to private life, and the business has been conducted since then by two of his sons. Deceased was the most extensive live stock dealer in this section of the state was well known. He has resided at 12th and Franklin since 1866, and was for years proprietor of Bechtel's Hotel, and was succeeded in that business by his eldest son, Nicholas F. Bechtel, the present proprietor. Deceased was the Republican nominee for sheriff in 1880 and pooled a very heavy vote. He served two terms as a member of Common Council. He was a brother of David Bechtel, Osceola, Iowa; John Bechtel, of Allentown; Joseph Bechtel, Pennsburg; Miss Mary Bechtel, New Berlin; Mrs. Yoder, Wadsworth, Ohio. Deceased was married to Miss Hannah Fisher, of Hereford, who died about 2 years ago and leaves four surviving children: Nicholas F., Susan B., Albert F. and Effinger F. Bechtel. He died in the 68th year of his age and was highly respected by all who knew him. The funeral will be held on Saturday afternoon and interment will be made in Charles Evans cemetery.
[Source: Reading Eagle, August 23, 1887. Submitted by Betty.]
Alfred F. Bechtel, son of the late Abraham Bechtel, of Reading is dead.
[Source: Berks County Democrat, January 28, 1899.]
Mrs. Alice B. Bechtel, 111 Church St., Macungie, died suddenly at her home at 3 p.m., Friday, Jan. 2. A native of Berks county, she was a daughter of the late George Funk and Lucy (Boyer) Funk. She was in ill health for the past four years. Mrs. Bechtel was a member of the Lutheran wing of Hill church, Manatawny Temple No. 33, Ladies of the Golden Eagle, and a member of the Ladies Auxiliary of the Macungie Park Assn. Her survivors include her husband, Elmer H.; and these sons and daughters: Russell L. and Carl G., both at home; Charles W., Emmaus R. 1; Mrs. Elwood Kline, Mertztown R. 1; Mrs. Burnell Schmoyer, Macungie; and Mrs. Paul Saylor, Macungie R. 1. Eleven grandchildren and two brothers, Harry Funk, Greschville (Berks county) and Freeman of Reading, also survive.
[Source: The Morning Call, Allentown, PA. Saturday, January 3, 1948, page 4.]
Services were held in the Houck Funeral Home, Pottstown, for Anna L. Bechtel, 93, formerly of Pottstown, who died Nov. 13 in the Laurel Center Genesis Elder Care, Tilden Township. Burial was in Pottstown Cemetery-West. Born in Pottstown, she was a daughter of the late Eugene and Ellen (Herman) Hildenbrand. Until retiring in 1976, she was a nurses aid at the Pottsville Hospitals for over 38 years. She had also been employed at the former Newberry Store, Pottstown, for 15 years. She was a member of the Hamburg Seventh-day Adventist Church, where she had been the oldest member. Surviving are a son, Earl M. Bechtel, Hamburg; a daughter, Louise (Bechtel) Diener, Boyertown; eight grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; and five great-great-grandchildren. Other survivors include a brother, Herbert E. Hildenbrand, Smethport, McKean County, and a sister, Relda H. (HIldenbrand) Bast, Phoenix, Ariz.
[Source: Hamburg Area Item, November 20, 2002. Submitted by: Nancy McD.]
In this city, on 16th inst., Catherine, aged 66 years. The relatives and friends of the family, are respectfully invited to attend her funeral on Friday morning at 9 o'clock, from her late residence, foot of Chestnut St. Services and Internment at Hain's Church.
[Source: Reading Eagle, November 17, 1891. Submitted by: Submitted by Michelle.]
Mrs. Edna M. Bechtel, 58, of 232 Wenz St., Kutztown, died yesterday in the Reading Hospital. Born in Wescosville, she was a daughter of the late Warren J. and Alameda A. (Wolfe) Smith. She was a member of St. John's United Church of Christ, Kutztown. Surviving are her husband, Edwin S. Bechtel; a son, Richard S., of Kutztown R. 3; a daughter, Mildred S., wife of Arlen Diehl, of Williamsport, Md.; five grandchildren; ten sisters, Mary, wife of Roy Koch of Kutztown; Margaretta, wife of Grove Fitzgerald of Lansdale; Emily, wife of Ralph Straus, and Evelyn, wife of Paul Moyer, both of Topton; Mrs. Ella Long of Pottsville; Dorothy, wife of Walter Weil, Vivian, wife of John DeLong, and Isabella, wife of Edward Scheirer, all of Mertztown R. 1; Rose, wife of Ernest Beitler of Pennsburg; and Mrs. Maude Muth of Breinigsville; a brother, George Smith, of Topton. Services will be at 1:30 p.m. Tuesday in the Fritz-Kendall Funeral Home, Kutztown. Calling hours will be 7 to 8:30 p.m. Monday.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Saturday, December 14, 1968, page 20. Submitted by Jerri.]
Elmer S. Bechtel, 46, 123 E. Smith St., Topton, was found dead Friday night underneath a tractor he was operating on the farm of his father, George S. Bechtel, near Huff's church, Alburtis R. 1. F. N. Benfield, Berks county deputy coroner, said that Bechtel apparently fell from the vehicle while it was moving. His crushed body was discovered by his father, partly on the harrow attached to the tractor. He had gone to the farm to help out his father. Born on the same farm, he was the son of George S. and Martha, nee Steele, Bechtel. He was employed by the Caloric Gas Stove Co., Topton, as a drill press operator. Mr. Bechtel was a member of Huff's Lutheran church, Nest No. 22, Boyertown Orioles, the Lyons Fire Co., and the Relief Assn. of the fire company. Besides his parents, he is survived by his wife, Mrs. Erma, nee Sicher, Bechtel; two children, a daughter Alice, 12, and son Carl, 4, all at home. And a sister, Katie Bechtel, Alburtis R. 1. Short funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. Tuesday at the DeLong and Trexler funeral home, Topton, with further services at Huff's church. Rev. Wilson H. Hartzell will officiate. Burial will be in Dryville church cemetery. Friends may call Monday from 7 to 9 p.m.
[Source: Allentown Sunday Call-Chronicle, Sunday, May 18, 1947, page 10. Submitted by Jerri.]
Death of Mrs. Geo. Bechtel
Pikeville: Mrs. George Bechtel died of heart failure. Her husband and the following children survive: John, George, Richard, Abraham, Elam, Amandus, Mary, Kate and Sallie. Funeral, Tuesday, June 7, at the Hill church cemetery, W. H. Warmkessel officiating.
[Source: Reading Eagle, June 3, 1898, page 2. Submitted by Marcia.]
George S. Bechtel, 90, died yesterday in the home of a nephew, George F. DeLong of Kutztown R. 3, with whom he resided. Bechtel, a retired farmer, had lived near Huff's Church along Alburtis R. 1 almost all his life. He moved to his nephew's home about two years ago. Born in Pike Township, Berks County, he was a son of the late George and Catherine (Stauffer) Bechtel. He was a member of the Lutheran Congregation of Huff's Church. He was the husband of the late Martha (Steele) Bechtel, who died two years ago. Surviving are a brother, Elam of Boyertown R. 1; two grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Services will be at 1:30 p.m. Friday in the Earl A. Trexler Funeral Home, 25 E. Weiss St., Topton. Viewing will be 7-8:30 p.m. Thursday.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Tuesday, November 27, 1962, page 24. Submitted by Jerri.]
Jeannemarie F. Bechtel, 58, Bern Township, died of cancer March 30 in ManorCare Health Services Inc., Muhlenberg Township. She was the wife of Donald W. Bechtel. Born in Bay City, Mich., she was a daughter of Helen (McDonald) Smith, Reading, and the late Morgan H. Smith. Bechtel had been employed as a financial fraud investigator by Sovereign Bank, Reading, retiring in 2000. She had previously worked 12 years as manager of advantage operations at Meridian Bank. She was a member of St. Margaret's Roman Catholic Church, Reading, where she served as Eucharist minister. Bechtel was a 1964 graduate of Reading High School. She was an officer with the Ancient Order of Hibernians and was a vice president of Financial Women's International. Bechtel is also survived by a daughter, Nicole M. (Bechtel) Miller, Wernersville, and a son, Marc W., Bern Township. There are also two granddaughters. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated April 9 at 11 a.m. in St. Margaret's Church. Burial will be in Indiantown Gap National Cemetery, Lebanon County. John P. Feeney Funeral Home Inc. is in charge of arrangements.
[Source: Reading Eagle, Saturday, April 2, 2005. Submitted by: Nancy McD.]
Katie M. Bechtel, Alburtis R. 1, near Huffs church, died Saturday night at the Allentown hospital. A native of Long Swamp township, she was in her 53rd year. A daughter of George S. and Martha (nee Steele) Bechtel, she was a member of Huffs Lutheran church and of its Adult Bible class and Ladies Aid society. She is survived by her parents, a nephew, Carl Bechtel, and a niece, Alice Mae Bechtel, both of Topton.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Tuesday, January 2, 1951, page 3. Submitted by Jerri.]
Mrs. Mary E. A. Bechtel, 91, widow of John a. Bechtel, of 1441 Turner St., Allentown died in her home. Born in Temple, a daughter of the late Frederick S. And Amanda (High) Hartman, Mrs. Bechtel was a member of St. Stephen's Evangelical and Reformed Church, Allentown.
Among her survivors is a sister, Emma, wife of Morris Hartman, Reading. Services will be held tomorrow at 1:30 PM, in the J. S. Burkholder Funeral Home, Allentown, the Rev. Ralph Hartzell officiating. Burial will be in Grandview Cemetery, Allentown.
[Source: Reading Eagle, July 5, 1955 page 12. Submitted by Michelle.]
Russell L. Bechtel, 68, of 32 W. Main St., Macungie, died Tuesday in the Allentown and Sacred Heart Hospital Center. He was the husband of Naomi M. (Snyder) Bechtel. He was a maintenance man for Marsteller Grainery, Trexlertown, for 20 years before retiring in 1979. Born in District Township, Berks County, he was a son of the late Elmer H. and Alice B. (Funk) Bechtel. He was a member of Grace Lutheran Church, Macungie, where he served on the church council for 30 years and was financial secretary of the congregation until his death. Bechtel was a past vice president and charter member of the Macungie Ambulance Corp. An Army veteran of World War II, he was a past commander and adjutant of the Macungie Veteran of Foreign Wars Post 9264. He also served as judge of election in Macungie for many years. Surviving with his widow are a son, Ronald R., of Macungie; a daughter, Diane M., wife of Charles D. Beltz, of Emmaus R. 1; a brother, Charles W., of Plant City, Fla.; two sisters, Myrtle M., wife of D. Burnell Schmoyer, of Macungie, and Esther M., wife of Paul Saylor, of Del Ray Beach, Fla., and five grandchildren. Services will be at 11 a.m. Saturday in the church. Calling hours will be 9:30 a.m. Saturday until services in the church. The Carl F. Schmoyer Funeral Home, Breinigsville, is in charge of arrangements.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Wednesday, October 28, 1981, page B-12. Submitted by Jerri.]
Russell W. Bechtel, 78, of Providence House, Court Street, Reading, died early Thursday morning at Reading Hospital & Medical Center, West Reading, where he had been a patient since Oct. 15. Born in Pottsville, he was a son of the late Russell A. and Mary Alice Knittle Bechtel. He was a 1943 graduate of Pottsville High School. He was a Navy veteran of World War II and the Korean Conflict. He was employed for more than 30 years as a hotel engineer at the Abraham Lincoln Hotel, Reading. He later worked for many years at the Scottish Rite Cathedral, Reading, performing maintenance and custodial duties. He was a life member of the Free & Accepted Mason Lodge 549, receiving the Meritorious Service Award from the Scottish Rite Cathedral. He also worked with the Boy Scouts of America for more than 50 years as a commissioner on the Hawk Mountain Council and was the recipient of the Silver Beaver Award for 50 years of service. He was preceded in death by his wife, the former Phyllis L. "Peggy" Carl. Surviving are three sons, James R., Cleveland, Ohio, Thomas B., Toronto, Ontario, and Robert B., Mohnton; six sisters, Edith M. Lutchkus, Carlisle, Thelma A. Yost, Mechanicsville, Mary Jane Chmielewski, Darby, Ruth E. Gormley, Springfield, Dorothy L. Bell, Pottsville, and Arlene C. Miller, Mount Carbon; seven grandchildren; a great granddaughter. Services will be held at 7:30 p.m. Sunday from Auman Funeral Home, Reiffton. Interment will be held at 10 a.m. Monday in Forest Hills Memorial Park, Exeter Township, Berks County.
[Source: Pottsville Republican, November 1, 2003. Submitted by: Nancy.]
Mrs. Sallie Bechtel, for the greater part of her life a resident of Huffs Church, died last evening at 5.30 o'clock at her late home, the residence of Mr. and Mrs. A. Z. Rohrbach, Home avenue, Topton. She was in her eighty-fourth year.
Born in Hereford township, Berks county, she was a daughter of the late Samuel and Catherine, nee Berky, Bittenbender. Her husband, the late Daniel R. Bechtel, preceded her in death nineteen years ago. She was the last member of her family.
Mrs. Bechtel was well known in the community in which she resided and had a host of friends. She was a faithful member of the Lutheran congregation of Huffs church.
Funeral services will be held at her late home Friday afternoon at 1 o'clock, followed by services at Huffs church. Interment will be made in the cemetery adjoining. Rev. W. F. Bond will officiate. Friends may call at her late home Thursday from 7 to 9 p.m.
Death notice (p. 7): Age at death = 83 years, 10 months, 1 day
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Wednesday, February 14, 1934, p. 7. Submitted by Jerri.]
Bright W. Beck, 87, former dean of men at Kutztown State College, died Friday at his home, 149 E. Main St., Kutztown. He was the husband of the late Lucile W. (Welsh) Beck, who died in 1969. A graduate of Kutztown Normal School with a master's degree from Bucknell University in Lewisburg, he was a teacher for many years in the Cressona and Auburn schools. Beck taught social studies at the Kutztown College and later became dean of men. He retired in 1940. Beck Hall dormitory at Kutztown state is named after him. Born in Cressona, Schuylkill County, he was a son of the late Charles F. and Mary A. (Paule) Beck. He was a member of St. Mark's United Church of Christ in Cressona. He was a past master of Cressona Lodge No. 426, F and AM. Surviving are two brothers, Harry C. and George A., both of Cressona; and a sister, Mrs. Carrie Saterlee of Hightstown, N.J. Services are being arranged by the William S. Fritz Funeral Home in Kutztown.
[Source: The Morning Call, Allentown, PA, Saturday, November 21, 1970, page 12. Submitted by Jerri.]
Services were held for Charles F. Beck, 83, formerly of Allentown, who died February 29 in the Frederick Mennonite Home in Upper Frederick. He was the widower of Barbara E. (Eckert) Beck. Born in Summit, N.J., from 1959 to 1988, Beck was a magazine advertising production director at Rodale Press. For 25 years, he was the editor of the Quill and Scroll magazine, also at Rodale Press. Beck was a member of Faith Presbyterian Church in Emmaus. He held a bachelor's degree in English from Lafayette College and was a member of the Kappa Delta Rho fraternity. Beck was a Republican National Committee member and was active in the 1980s and early 1990s. During World War II, Beck served in the Army in Central Burma. He received the Asiatic Pacific Campaign Medal, the World War II Victory Medal, the American Campaign Medal and the Good Conduct Medal. He was a member of the Great Valley Basha, China-Burma-India Veterans Association. He is survived by four daughters, Kathleen Houck, Allentown, Linda B. Craft, Pottstown, Wendy E. Zettlemoyer of Bethlehem and Marcie B. Evans of Kennesaw, Ga. Also 10 grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by a daughter. Memorial contributions may be made to the church or to Running Strong for American Indian Youth, 8815 Telegraph Road, Lorton, VA 22079. Burial was in Fairview Cemetery in Macungie. The arrangements were handled by the John F. Herron Funeral Home in Bethlehem.
[Source: Boyertown Area Times, March 4, 2004. Submitted by: Nancy McD.]
News from Pottsville.
Jan. 1.--Isaac Beck, one of our oldest citizens, is dead. He had been paying teller of the Miners' national bank for many years and was a noted leader in temperance work.
[Source: Reading Eagle, January 1, 1880. Submitted by Nancy.]
John C. Beck, a well-known employee of the P. & R. Locomotive shops, was found dead in his garage at 1026 North 4th street, Reading, on Sunday by his wife. Death was due to heart trouble. Besides his wife, Ida C. (Coakley), he is survived by the following children: William, New Brunswick, N.J.; Ida B., wife of Harry E. Schwenk, of Womelsdorf; and Emanual, of Northside, as well as the following brothers and sisters: Clarence F., of Wilkes-Barre; Blanche, Kate and Anna, of Cressona; Mrs. Daniel Decker, of Schuylkill Haven; and Mrs. E. F. Sullivan, of Mahanoy City.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Tuesday, January 9, 1923, page 7. Submitted by Jerri.]
Mrs. Kate Beck, Bethlehem R. 4, has received word of the death of her sister, Marie DeLong, formerly of Bethlehem, Sunday in Burlingame, Calif. Born in Bethlehem, Dec. 7, 1885, a daughter of Romonus and Annie (Houston) DeLong, she graduated from Bethlehem Business college in 1904. She is survived by two brothers, John, Wisconsin, and George, Montana; her sister, Mrs. Beck, Bethlehem, and five nieces.
[No funeral notice.]
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Thursday, March 31, 1949, page 11. Submitted by Jerri.]
Mrs. Lucile W. (Welsh) Beck, wife of former Kutztown State College Professor Bright w. Beck, and for nearly 25 years, a dietician at the college, died yesterday at her home. She lived at 149 E. Main St., Kutztown. Mrs. Beck came to Kutztown in 1928 and began work at the college as a dietician and a member of the teaching staff. In 1938, she married Beck and resigned her post as dietician. In 1943, she was requested to return, the next year she assumed full-time duties as college dietitian and as a housekeeper in one of the dormitories. She retired from the college in 1956. Born in Beaver Dam, Wisc., she was a daughter of the late Roland and Rose (Martin) Welsh. She was a member of St. Barnabas Episcopal Church, College Hill, Kutztown. She was a past officer of the Kutztown State College Dames, and on the boards of the Berks County Visiting Nurse Association and the Reading and Berks County Tuberculosis and Health Association. Her only immediate survivor is her husband. Services will be at 11 a.m. Thursday in St. Barnabas Church. There will be no viewing. Funeral arrangements are being made by the Fritz-Kendall Funeral Home, Kutztown.
[Source: The Morning Call, Allentown, PA, Tuesday, March 25, 1969, page 8. Submitted by Jerri.]
Abraham Becker, of near Hill Church, died on Sunday afternoon from old age and general debility. Interment at Hill Church this morning. His age was 87 years 9 months and 22 days. His wife died several years ago aged 87 and 4 months. The following children survive: Isaac of near Pikeville, David living at home; Mrs. James Fraine, Mrs. Jesse Gehris and Mrs. Charles Reitenauer; also the following sisters; Mrs. John Weller aged 83; Mrs. Daniel Reitenauer age 82; Mrs. Benjamin Heydt age 78. Mrs. Reitenauer is also confined to her bed with grip, but is slowly improving.
[Source: Berks County Democrat, January 14, 1899.]
Becker - In Bethel, October 15th, Benjamin Becker, aged 58 years and 6 days.
[Source: Berks and Schuylkill Journal, December 2, 1876. Submitted by Kathy.]
Caroline M. (Baer), wife of Irvin G. Becker, died Sunday at her home in Shoemakersville, aged 71 years. Death was due to complications after an illness of six months. She was a member of the Christian Science church, Reading. Besides her husband, there survive two brothers, Benjamin, Shoemakersville; David M., Hamburg; three sisters, Sarah, widow of Simon Mengel, Shoemakersville; Mary, widow of William Hoffman, Kutztown; Sallie, wife of William M. Snyder, Allentown. Funeral Friday afternoon at 1.30.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Tuesday, April 29, 1930, page 7. Submitted by Jerri.]
Edna S Becker, 96, formerly of 515 Shalter Ave., Temple, died May 12 at 4:45 p.m. in ManorCare Health Services, Muhlenberg Twp., where she had resided since 1996. Her husband William S Becker died May 25, 1970. Born in Reading, she was a daughter of the late Morris and Katie (Snyder) Sassaman. She had been employed for more than 40 years as a bookkeeper by the William S Becker Hardware Store, Temple, retiring in 1975. She was a member of Christ United Church of Christ, Temple, where she was a former Sunday school teacher. She is survived by two sons; Ronald W., Temple, and Richard N Derr, American Canyon, CA.; and a daughter Suzanne E (Becker) Cleveland, Muhlenberg Twp. There also are four grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. Services will be Thursday at 11 a.m. in Milkins Funeral Home Inc., Temple. Burial will be in Good Shepherd Cemetery, Tuckerton.
[Source: Reading Eagle, May 14, 2002, p. B-4. Submitted by Michelle.]
Elaine L. Becker, 58, died of natural causes May 17 in her residence in Bethel Township. Born in Reading, she was a daughter of Charles C. Clay, Mount Aetna, and the late Minerva M. (Himmelberger) Clay. Becker was employed for six years as a food inspector by the U.S. Department of Agriculture at Farmers Pride poultry plant in Fredericksburg, Lebanon County. She was a member of St. John's Church, Mount Aetna. Surviving are two sons, Randall S. and Eric J. Erb, both of Lebanon. Other survivors include two sisters, Judith (Clay) Ream, Fredericksburg, and Lisa (Clay) Kreiser, Myerstown; and a brother, Charles G. Clay, Mount Aetna. There are also four grandchildren. Services will be Saturday at 10 a.m. in the Grose Funeral Home Inc., Myerstown. Burial will be in Grand View Memorial Park, Annville, Lebanon County.
[Source: Reading Eagle, May 18, 2005. Submitted by: Nancy McD.]
Mrs. Elizabeth A. Becker (nee Marks), wife of Simon Becker, died last Friday at her residence at Temple, of a complication of diseases, aged 70 years, 8 months and 18 days. She is survived by her husband, four sons and five daughters, one of the latter being the wife of Edmund Desch, of Allentown. Five sisters, three brothers, 27 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren also survive. The funeral took place Monday forenoon at 9.30 o'clock.
[Source: Macungie Progress, Thursday, May 26, 1910, page 1. Submitted by Jerri.]
Mrs Elizabeth A Becker (nee Marks), wife of Simson Becker, died of complication at her late home at Temple, aged 70 years, 8 months and 18 days. Besides her husband; she is survived by these children; Morris of Reading; William, at home; Edward S, Harry S, of Temple; Mrs Jeremiah Rothermel of Reading; Mrs. Edwin Desch and Mrs William Schadel, of Allentown; Mrs William Brunner and Mrs Edwin Parker, of Temple, and the following sisters and brothers; Mrs Martha Esbach, of Ruscombmanor Twp; Mrs. Aaron Hess, of Stonersville; Mrs Frank Yoder, of Oley; Mrs Adam Shaner, of Krick's Mill; Daniel of Reading; John of Ruscombmanor, and Isaac, of Oley. Twenty-seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren remain. Deceased was a member of Shalter's Church
[Source: Reading Eagle, May 20, 1910, p. 10. Submitted by Michelle.]
Emeline Becker, widow of William Becker, passed away suddenly on Monday evening at the home of her son-in-law and daughter, Mr. and Mrs. Nelson Fisher, High street, Topton. Death was due to a heart attack. She was 77 years, 1 month and 14 days, and was the daughter of the late William and wife Catherine, nee Reifinger, Warmkessel. Her husband preceded her in death about six years. Surviving are three daughters, Mrs. Nelson Fisher and Mrs. Milton Schell, of Topton; Mrs. Charles Moser, of Sinking Spring; one son, Augustus, of Allentown; one sister, Mrs. Acquilla Geist, of Allentown; one brother, Marcus, of Mertztown; eight grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. The funeral will be held from the home of Mr. and Mrs. Nelson Fisher, High street, Topton, on Saturday, May 24, at 1.30 p.m., standard time. All services at the house. Interment in the Union cemetery, Topton, Rev. William H. Kline officiating. Funeral directors J. J. Schofer and son have charge.
[Source: The Allentown Morning Call, Allentown, PA, Wednesday, May 21, 1930, page 7. Submitted by Submitted by Jerri.]
Emilie J. Becker, 86, formerly of Hamburg, died Thursday evening at the Orwigsburg Center, where she lived since 1995. Born in Hamburg, she was a foster daughter of the late W. Myers and Ruth K. Kantner Jacoby. She was employed as a sales clerk by the former Diener's Department store, the former Zieder's Joy Footwear and the former March Sportswear Co., and as a cutter by the former Burkey Underwear Co., all of Hamburg. She retired in 1977. She was a member of St. Paul's (Smoke) Lutheran Church, Windsor Township, Berks County. She was a former council member, council secretary, Sunday school teacher and lay representative to the Hamburg Lutheran Cluster. Her husband, William C., died in 1972. Surviving are two stepsons, William D. Becker, Carlisle, and Ray S. Becker, Auburn; two grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren. Services will be held at 1:30 p.m. Monday from Leibensperger Funeral Homes Inc., Hamburg. Interment will be in St. John's Cemetery, Hamburg.
[Source: Pottsville Republican, September 14, 1998. Submitted by: Nancy.]
Services will be held Aug. 14, 10:30 a.m. in Leibensperger Funeral Home, Hamburg, for Ethel M. Becker, formerly of Catherine Street, Hamburg, who died Aug. 8 in Laurel Center Genesis Elder Care, Tilden Township, where she had resided since Aug. 2002. Burial will be in St. John's Cemetery, Hamburg. She was predeceased by her husband, Walter M. Becker, who died Jan. 5, 1993. Born in Hamburg, she was a daughter of the late Raymond E. and Maggie (Correll) Casper. She was a former officer of the Blue Mountain Chapter 443 of the Order of the Eastern Star, Hamburg. Becker was a member of First United Church of Christ, Hamburg. Surviving are six daughters: Margaret M. (Becker) Yoder, Ethel M. (Becker) Symanowicz and Joan L. (Becker) Turner, all of Hamburg; Anna B. (Becker) Bledsoe, Naples, Fla.; Barbara A. (Becker) Schappell, Windsor Township; and Sharon C. (Becker) Hanson, Mohrsville. There are also 17 grandchildren, 35 great-grandchildren, and 12 great-great-grandchildren. Other survivors include a brother, Clyde C. Casper, Windsor Township, and a sister, Dorothy (Casper) Baver, Port Clinton.
[Source: Hamburg Area Item, August 13, 2003. Submitted by: Nancy McD.]
Harel H. Becker, 58, of S. Willow St., Fleetwood, was dead on arrival at Sarasota (Fla.) Memorial Hospital Friday shortly after being stricken. He and his wife, Mary R. (Walton) Becker, had been on vacation. He was president of the Pinnacle Equipment Corp., in Fleetwood. Born in Fleetwood, he was a son of Sallie (Benner) Becker Dellinger and the late Leon Becker. He was a member of Emmanuel United Methodist Church and a past president of the Fleetwood Rotary Club. Surviving besides his widow are his stepfather, Dewey Dellinger; two daughters, Judith, wife of Richard C. Hamilton of Fleetwood R. 3, and Brenda, wife of Ronald J. Kopicz of Fleetwood; a son Todd, at home; a sister Darlene, wife of Glenn Philips of Fleetwood, and three grandchildren. Services will be at 1:30 p.m. Tuesday in the Stump Funeral Home, 117 W. Main St., Fleetwood. Calling hours will be 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Tuesday.
[Source: Allentown Sunday Call-Chronicle, Sunday, November 17, 1974, page D-6. Submitted by Jerri.]
Mrs. Harry Becker nee Kantner daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Kantner, aged 31 years eight months and 16 days, died of a complication of diseases at 9:45 PM Tuesday at her residence, 731 Chestnut St. She was ailing 10 months and bed fast 10 weeks. Deceased was a native of this city. Besides her husband she leaves two children Leon and Edna; a sister Margaret, wife of Raymond Pease, and three brothers, Frank, Calvin and Walker all of the city. She was a member of First U. E. Church.
Source Reading Eagle online June 22, 1910 page 1[Source: Reading Eagle, June 22, 1910, page 1. Submitted by Michelle.]
After an illness of more than a year. Harry M Becker, aged 52 years 9 months and 14 days, died of complications at his home, 4627 Tenth Ave., Temple. He had been bedfast during the past week. Mar Becker was a life long resident of Berks County, and was a member of the Lutheran Denomination. There survive his widow Rose (Heller); two sons William, Kutztown; and Harry; one daughter Sarah Becker; two brothers Wellington and William; four sisters Minnie, wife of William Brunner; Mrs. Emma Rothermel; and Lillian, wife of Edwin Parker, all of Temple and Anna, wife of William Shadel, Allentown, and three grandchildren. Funeral director Seidel.
[Source: Reading Eagle, September 23, 1930, p. 2. Submitted by Michelle.]
Henry E Becker, son of the late John S and Mary (nee Gauby) Becker, died of dropsy at 5:20 p.m. Tuesday, at his residence, near Shalter's Church, aged 51 years. Deceased was a member of the Lutheran denomination. He leaves four children, Clara, Miriam and Callie, still at home, and Mrs. Edward Sweitzer, Temple; also two grand children. Undertaker Seidel has charge of funeral arrangements.
[Source: Reading Eagle, October 16, 1918, p. P-6. Submitted by Michelle.]
Henry M. Becker, died of gastritis, at 2:45 PM, Monday at his home, 129 Thorn St., aged 45 years 10 months and 26 days. He was ill since May. Though in ill health, Mr. Becker was able to be about and for a time conducted and oyster restaurant at Front and Schuylkill Ave. prior to his illness Mr. Becker was a old maker in the employee of the American Iron and Steel Manufacturing Company. There remain his mother Mrs. Sarah Fisher, a sister, Ms. Jen at Becker, and a step brother, James R. Fisher, all of this city.
[Source: Reading Eagle, December 30, 1902, page 1. Submitted by Michelle.]
Horace W. Becker, 83, of 385-A Galen Hall Rd., Reinholds, was dead on arrival Saturday night at 730 in the emergency room of a Ephrata Community Hospital.
He was the husband of Bertha (Hirneisen) Becker. Born in Denver, he was a son of the late Harry and Maisie (Wolfskill) Becker. Becker had been employed as a carpenter by Whitman builders, Cumru Twp., before retiring. He was a member of Swamp Lutheran Church, Reinholds
In addition to his wife, he is survived by a daughter, Joan L. wife of Raymond Long Jr. and two grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. Also three sisters: Sadie, wife of Harry M. Weinhold, and Cora, wife of M. Eugene Leisey, both of Denver, and Grace, wife of Paul L. Lepole, Akron. The Roseboro Funeral Home, Denver is in charge of arrangements.
[Source: Reading Eagle, June 15, 1987, page 30. Submitted by Michelle.]
Ira E. Becker, 83 of Leesport R.D. 1, died Tuesday morning at 1035 in the Leader Nursing and Rehabilitation Ctr., Spring Township, where he that had been residing since April 30. He was the husband of Edna L. (Strauss) Becker. Born in Bern Township, he was a son of the late James and Henrietta (Ernst) Becker.
Becker had been a farmer and a salesman for Raleigh products before retiring. He was a member of Bern Lutheran Church, Leesport R.D. 1.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by a daughter, Verna H., wife of Elwood W. Speicher, Wyomissing. Also a son, Marvin L., Leesport R.D.1, and five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
The Lamm and Whitman Funeral Home, Wernersville, is in charge of arrangements.
[Source: Reading Eagle, June 24, 1987, page 46. Submitted by Michelle.]
Mrs. Jane, nee Fetterman, Becker, widow of Calvin Becker, died at 7:50 a.m. Monday at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Ellen J. Bortz, Allentown R. 60. She was in her 87th year. A native of Lehigh county, Mrs. Becker was a daughter of the late Noah and Anna, nee Kuhns, Fetterman. She was a member of the Mertztown Lutheran church. She is survived by a daughter, Mrs. Bortz, with whom she resided; two sons, Clinton, Allentown, and Frank, Emmaus; 25 grandchildren, 34 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild. Funeral services will be held on Friday at 2 p.m. from the William H. Derr funeral home, 46 Susquehanna St., with interment to follow in the Mertztown cemetery.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Tuesday, September 7, 1943, page 6. Submitted by Jerri.]
Becker -- In Centre, Jan. 14th, John Becker, sr., aged 79 years, 1 month and 20 days.
[Source: Berks and Schuylkill Journal, January 24, 1874. Submitted by: Nancy.]
John S Becker, aged 76 years, 4 months and 21 days, a well known resident of Muhlenberg Twp., died from a complication of diseases at 7 o'clock last evening at his residence on Kutztown Rd., near the Centre Square Hotel. Mr. Becker had been ailing for over a year, but was bedfast only one week. In his earlier days the deceased followed the occupation of shoemaking, but later turned to farming and butchering. He continued in this trade for 30 years, but 15 years ago retired from active business. Mr. Becker was born in Alsace Twp., and was a son of the late Daniel and Magdalena (nee Schmehl) Becker. He is survived by his widow, Mary (nee Gauby) Becker and one son Henry of Alsace Twp. Eleven grandchildren and six great-grandchildren also survive and one brother Simpson Becker of Temple. He was a member of Shalter's Lutheran Congregation, and served as an elder of many years. Undertaker Seidel is in charge of the funeral arrangements.
[Source: Reading Eagle, July 23, 1918, p. 4. Submitted by Michelle.]
Joseph Becker, aged 67 years, died of a complication of diseases at 3:30 this morning at St. Joseph's Hospital. He was admitted Tuesday, Aug. 12, from 516 Franklin street, where he had been rooming for a short period. Deceased was a retired farmer and came to this section from upper Berks. His wife died a number of years ago.
[Source: Reading Eagle, Friday, September 19, 1919. Submitted by Nancy.]
Lillie (DeLong) Becker, of the Phoebe Home at 19th and Turner Sts., Allentown, died yesterday. She was 76. Born in Mertztown, she was a daughter of the late Washington and Mary (Wasser) DeLong. She and her husband, August Becker, had been guests of the Phoebe Home the past two months. She was a member of St. Paul's United Church of Christ in Allentown. Besides her husband, she is survived by two half-sisters, Mrs. Paul Hamman of Emmaus, and Mrs. Mabel Ritz of East Greenville, and several nieces and nephews. Services will be at 10 a.m. Tuesday in the Phoebe Home under the direction of the Stanley S. Stephens Funeral Home, 1335-37 Linden St., Allentown. There will be no calling hours.
[Source: Allentown Sunday Call-Chronicle, Sunday, April 1, 1962, page D-8. Submitted by Jerri.]
Becker -- In Alsace, December 21st, Magdalena Becker, widow of Daniel Becker, aged 63 years, 10 months and 20 days.
[Source: Berks and Schuylkill Journal, January 3, 1874. Submitted by: Nancy.]
May (Fehr) Becker, wife of William S Becker, died at her home in Temple early this morning at the age of 30 years. She was the daughter of Howard W. and Martha (Drumheller) Fehr, and a member of the United Brethren Church if Landingville. Surviving are two sisters, Edith R Fehr, of Reading, and Blanche E Fehr, Landingville; one brother, Morgan W Fehr, Reading. Funeral Director Miller has charge.
[Source: Reading Eagle, July 8, 1930, p. 2. Submitted by Michelle.]
Eight months after the death of his wife Alice W. Becker, death claimed Morris Becker aged 53 years at 5:15 a.m. today at his home 1735 Centre Ave. Death was due to pneumonia superinduced by influenza. Mr Becker was taken ill Monday Feb ?? and confined to his bed for the greater part of his illness.
He was born in Muhlenberg Twp., near Temple, and made his home in Riverside for some years. Mr Becker was a son of Simpson Becker and the late Amelia (nee Marks) Becker. His father who has attained the age of 85 years, resides at Temple. Mr Becker during the past six months, was employed at the Wilhelm Paint Works, Third and Berr Sts. Prior to that he was employed by the Carpenter Steel Co. He was a member of Shalter's Lutheran Church and was affliated with the P. O. S. of A. and the Red Men of Temple. His wife Alice W (nee Hawkins) died following an operation in a local hospital on Jun 28 1919.
Surviving are his aged father, two children Adabella, wife of Harry J Philipban, Reading and Alma at home. These Brothers and Sisters; Wellington, Muhlenberg Twp.; William, Temple; Minnie wife of William Brunner, Lillian, wife of Edward Parker and Mrs. Emma Rothermel, of Temple; Sallie wife of Edwin Desch and Anna wife of William Shadle both of Allentown.
[Source: Reading Eagle, February 26, 1920, p. 14. Submitted by Michelle.]
Nancy M. Becker, 51 of Blandon, died Saturday morning at 9:15 in the Reading Hospital, where she had been a patient since Wednesday. She was the wife of Harry F Becker.
Born in Stephen's, she it was a daughter of Paul R. Fink, Conestoga, and the late Edith (Hollinger) Fink. In addition to her husband and father, she is survived by a son, Donald Fink Stevens; two grandchildren; a step brother, Ray D. Fink, Manheim; and a step mother, Anna Fink, Conestoga.
Milken's Funeral Home Inc., Temple, is in charge of arrangements.
[Source: Reading Eagle, June 14, 1987, page D10. Submitted by Michelle.]
Mrs. Naomi Becker, 88 formerly of Blandon, died Saturday at 8:40 AM in Berks Heim. Born in Blandon, a daughter of the late Franklin and Violet (Moyer) Stufflet, she was a member of Maidencreek Lutheran Church, Blandon.
Her husband Calvin Becker, died in November 1950. Surviving are seven sons: Warren E., Paul L., Clarence J., all of Blandon; Harry F. And Clair D., both of Fleetwood; Russell L., Redding, and Robert W., Douglasville. Three daughters; Effie, widow of William Eschback; and Lulu, wife of Edward Blank, both of Blandon; and Alverta, wife of John Hertzog, Fleetwood R. D. 2; 22 grandchildren; 41 great-grandchildren; and 15 great great-grandchildren.
Services will be held Tuesday at 1:30 PM in the Harry Milkins Funeral Home, Temple, the Rev. John M. Aurand officiating. Burial will be in Shalter's Church Cemetery, Alsace Twp.
[Source: Reading Eagle, December 8, 1974, page 106. Submitted by Michelle.]
Becker - Near Robesonia, on October 29th, Sarah Becker, wife of Willoughby Becker, and daughter of David Kehl, aged 42 years, 3 months and 14 days.
[Source: Berks and Schuylkill Journal, November 16, 1878. Submitted by Kathy.]
Stewart E Becker 59, died yesterday in his home at 1424 Palm St. A Reading Auto Club field representative, was born in Reading; a son of the late Edgar and Eva (Leininger) Becker. He was a member of the First United Church of Christ.
He is survived by his widow, Ruth C (Conrad) Becker; two sons R Frederick of Reading and Donald C of Barrington R I; two grandchildren and a brother Leon M of Reading and two sisters, Helen wife of Franklin Hartzell, Reading, and Miriam E, Reading and Miriam E, wife of Albert Metzger, Philadelphia.
Services will be held Friday at 10:30 a.m. in the Lutz Funeral Home, the Rev. Warren E Adams officiating. Burial will be made in Charles Evans Cemetery.
[Source: Reading Eagle, April 8, 1964, p. 52. Submitted by Michelle.]
Fifteen minutes after the funeral of Mrs. Judith Goegel left the residence of Charles W. Miller, deceased's niece, Mrs. Susannah Becker expired suddenly at 10.30 a.m. Thursday while sitting in a rocking chair at Kutztown. She was 69 years of age. While getting ready for the funeral, Mrs. Becker complained of not feeling well, and concluded not to accompany the cortege to Lehigh Church. After the cortege left, she went to the kitchen and taking a sea, exclaimed, "I fell sick enough to die. O, God." A few minutes later it was discovered that she had passed away. Exactly three years ago, one of her daughters died. She is survived by two children: Mrs. Charles W. Miller, with whom she resided, and J. Becker, station agent at West Conshohocken. Deceased had been in excellent health and had not complained of feeling badly before the funeral. When undertakers William Gehret & Son called at the Miller home to take away the various articles used at the Goebel funeral, they were surprised to learn that they were needed because of the death of Mrs. Becker.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Friday, February 5, 1904, page 1. Submitted by Jerri.]
On the 13th inst. WARREN E., husband of Marie M.(nee Bubbermover) Becker, of 26 Grove Dr., Blandon, age 82 years. Funeral service from the Milkins Funeral Home, Inc. 4914 at 1:30 p.m. Rev. John Aurand, officiating. Interment in Maiden Creek Cemetery. Friends may call Monday evening 7 to 8:30 (MILKINS)
[Source: Reading Eagle, c. November 1987. Submitted by: Submitted by Eileen.]
William Becker, a life-long resident of Topton, died there on Tuesday night at the home of his son-in-law, Nelson Fisher, aged 73 years. He had been in ill health for the last six months. He is survived by a son, Augustus Becker, of Allentown; three daughters, Mrs. Fisher, Mrs. Milton Schell, both of Topton, and Mrs. Charles Moser, of Sinking Springs; a brother, John Becker, of Reading, and three sisters. Funeral arrangements were not completed on Tuesday night.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Wednesday, February 20, 1924, page 16. Submitted by Jerri.]
William Becker, a life-long resident of Topton, died there on Tuesday night at the home of his son-in-law, Nelson Fisher, aged 73 years. He had been in ill health for the last six months. He is survived by a son, Augustus Becker, of Allentown; three daughters, Mrs. Fisher, Mrs. Milton Schell, both of Topton, and Mrs. Charles Moser, of Sinking Springs; a brother, John Becker, of Reading, and three sisters. The funeral will be held on Saturday at 2.15 o'clock with all services at the Topton house. Interment will be made at the Mertztown cemetery, with the Rev. W. S. Dry officiating.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Friday, February 22, 1924, page 10. Submitted by Jerri.]
Services for William S Becker, 69, owner-operator of a hardware store in Temple and a member of the borough authority, who died Monday afternoon in the Reading Hospital, where he was a patient since Apr 30, will be held on Thursday at 1:30 p m.
The Rev Robert F Harting will officiate in Christ United Church of Christ, Temple. Burial will be made in Good Shepherd Cemetery, Tuckerton. The Milkins Funeral Home, Temple, has charge.
Mr. Becker of 4822 7th Ave, Temple, was proprietor of William S Becker Hardware, Temple, for 48 years. He was borough treasurer from 1954 to 1964. An elder emeritus of Church UCC, Temple, he had been treasurer of the church for 19 years. Mr. Becker was a member of Lodge 62, F & AM; charter member of the Muhlenberg Lions Club, Hyde Park Patriotic Order Sons of America and the Temple and Goodwill fire companies.
Born in Hyde Park, he was a son of the late Wellington and Maggie (Snyder) Becker. Surviving are his widow, Edna S (Sassaman) Becker; a son Ronald W., at home, a daughter Suzanne E, wife of Richard M Cleveland, Temple; a stepson, Richard N Derr, San Raphael, CA, and four grandchildren. A brother George E, Hollywood CA, and a sister Mrs Emily M Crist, Temple.
[Source: Reading Eagle, May 26, 1970, p. 41. Submitted by Michelle.]
An infant child of Mr. and Mrs. Irvin Beckert died at Shillington, Saturday morning, of summer complaint.
[Source: Reading Eagle, August 14, 1905. Submitted by: Barbara Gallas.]
Rev. J. E. Freeman, was called to preach the burial sermon, of Mrs. Dan. Beer, at the Towamensing Reformed Church, Carbon Co., PA last Thursday. By special request of the deceased.
[Source: Berks County Democrat, January 21, 1899.]
Mrs. Mamie Beers, 80, of 1908 Hanover Acres, Allentown, widow of George L. Beers, was dead on arrival Friday night at Sacred Heart Hospital. Born in Hereford Township, Berks County, she was a daughter of the late Adam Y. and Diana (Gregory) Seisholtz. She was a member of Grace Lutheran Church, Allentown. Surviving are a brother, Calvin Seisholtz of Allentown, and two sisters, Mrs. Gertrude Nuver of Mertztown R. 1 and Mrs. Florence Lane of Beach Haven, N.J. Services will be at 3 p.m. Tuesday, Trexler Funeral Home Inc., 1625 Highland St., Allentown. Viewing will be 7-8 p.m. Monday.
[Source: Allentown Sunday Call-Chronicle, Sunday, July 6, 1969, page D-6. Submitted by Jerri.]
Undertaker Auman forwarded the remains of Amos Beeseaman to Palmyra. Services and interment took place at Campbellstown. The remains were attired in a black suit and reposed in a square-cornered black cloth covered casket, with silver trimmings, extension bar handles and plate, bearing name and age.
[Source: Reading Eagle, Saturday, January 20, 1912. Submitted by Nancy.]
Among the local survivors of Frances K. Behler, who died of natural causes Nov. 30 in her Reading residence, is a daughter, Ranae F. (Behler) Benic, Kutztown.
[Source: Kutztown Area Patriot, December 5, 2002. Submitted by: Nancy McD.]
Mrs. Laura Behler, widow of Allen Behler, died Tuesday at the Topton Orphans Home where she was a guest. Born in Hamilton Township, Monroe County, Mrs. Behler was a daughter of the late Daniel and Susanna (Brotzman) Bergenstock. Prior to entering the Topton Orphans Home, she resided in Bethlehem, and was a member of St. Mark's Lutheran Church in that city.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Thursday, February 28, 1952, page 10. Submitted by Jerri.]
Matilda Behler, daughter of the late Lewis and Elvina, nee Hertzog, Behler, died yesterday at Kutztown R. 1, aged 61 years. Born in Greenwich township, she was a life-long member of the Grimsville Reformed church. Survivors include: two sisters, Mrs. Kate Althouse, Kutztown; Mrs. Eva Reinert, Allentown; two brothers, Charles, of New Jersey; and George, Breinigsville R. 1. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday at the Fritz funeral home, with interment in the Grimsville church cemetery. There will be no viewing.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Friday, August 14, 1942, page 16. Submitted by Jerri.]
Mrs. Annie Behm of Barto R. 1 died yesterday in her home. She was 62. Born in Rockland Township, she was a daughter of the late Moses and Catharine Ruppert DeLong. She was a member of St. Paul's Lutheran Church of Lobachsville. Surviving, besides her husband, Frank, are two daughters, Ethel, wife of Milton D. Crossley of Barto R. 1, and Dorothy, wife of William Schell of Boyertown R. 1; five grandchildren; a sister Katie, wife of Earl Youse of Oley, and three brothers, Paul of Stony Creek, Harvey of Kutztown, and John of Oley. Services will be at 2 p.m. Wednesday in the church. Viewing will be 7-9 p.m. tomorrow at the Long Funeral Home of Oley.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Monday, November 23, 1959, page 6. Submitted by Jerri.]
Mrs. Elsie H. Behm, 75, of Fleetwood R. 1, died Wednesday morning at home. She was the wife of Charles M. Behm. Born in Washington Township, Berks county, she was a daughter of the late Peter and Sarah (Herb) Rohrbach. She was a member of the Lutheran congregation of New Jerusalem Church, Fleetwood R. 1. Surviving besides her husband are four daughters, Mildred, wife of Albert Isamoyer, Fleetwood R. 1; Myrtle, wife of Forrest Merkel, and Miriam, wife of Forrest Ohlinger, both of Mertztown R. 1, and Verdie, wife of Melvin Sanders of Topton; a son Samuel of Felltwood (Fleetwood?); three sisters, Viola, wife of Abraham Yoder, and Mrs. Edna Reitnauer, both of Boyertown R. 1, and Alice, wife of Karl Greisemer of Oley R. 2; a brother Warren, of Boyertown R. 1; 14 grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren. Services will be at 1:30 p.m. Monday in the Earl A. Trexler Funeral Home, Topton. Calling hours will be 7-8:30 p.m. Sunday.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Friday, March 28, 1969, page 46. Submitted by Jerri.]
Behm--In this city, on the 4th inst. Florence, daughter of Samuel, and Emma Fick, aged 33 years, 7 months, 2 days. Relatives and friends are invited to attend the funeral services, without further notice, from the Lutz Funeral Home, 2100 Perkiomen Ave., Tuesday at 2 p.m., Daylight Saving Time. Interment at Spies Church Cemetery. Friends may call at the funeral home Monday evening, 7 to 9.
[Source: Reading Eagle, Sunday, September 6, 1931. Submitted by Nancy.]
Katie Amanda, wife of Stanley Behm, passed away at her residence near Topton, on Saturday night, aged 45 years, 9 months and 17 days. She had been sick for the last Seven months. She was a daughter of Gotlieb Kerchner and wife, Sarah (nee Keiser); a member of Mertz church, Dryville, and Pioneer Grange No. 1777, Topton. She is survived by her parents, her husband, three daughters, Elda, Estelle and Mary; one son, William, all at home; two sisters, Mrs. H. O. Zimmerman, Kutztown, and Mrs. Elwood Peters, Lenhartsville. The funeral will be held from her late residence near Topton, on next Thursday, June 30th, at 9.30 a.m. Further services in the Mertz church at Dryville, with interment in the adjoining cemetery. Rev. William H. Kline, of Topton, will officiate. The funeral directors in charge are Schofer & Son, of Topton.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Tuesday, June 28, 1927, page 7. Submitted by Jerri.]
Mrs. Mandilla E. (Miller) Behm, 85, died on Saturday at the home of her son, Charles Behm, New Jerusalem, with whom she resided. She was a daughter of the late George and Amelia (Angstadt) Miller. Her husband, Samuel Behm, died 19 years ago. Surviving are one son, Charles, with whom she resided; five grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Monday, May 17, 1948, page 2. Submitted by Jerri.]
Mary Behm, one of the oldest residents of Longswamp township, died at the residence of her grandson, Stanley Behm, Friday evening. Deceased was 91 years of age and had been ill for about three weeks. Her husband, Isaac Behm, preceded her in death 45 years ago. She is survived by the following children: William, Bowers; Samuel, Rockland; Amanda, Reading, and Emma, Orwigsburg. A number of grand and great-grandchildren also remain. The funeral will take place from her late residence, the home of her son Stanley, Thursday at 9.30 o'clock. Short services will be held at the house, followed with further services in Christ Lutheran church at Dryville, the Rev. W. F. Kline officiating.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Sunday, January 8, 1922, page 7. Submitted by Jerri.]
Paul W Behm, 72, died Tuesday night at 6:43 of natural causes in his residence at 604 A N. 25th St., Pennside. He was the husband of Doris J (Peoples) Behm. Born in Reading, he was a son of the late William Behm and Anna (Delp) Behm Burkhart. An Army veteran of World War II, he had been employed for 36 years by the Reading Co. as a car repairer before retiring. In addition to his wife, he is survived by a sister, Doris B., widow of Harold Wentzel. Pennside, and two nephews. The Sanders Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
[Source: Reading Eagle, June 1, 1998, p. 38. Submitted by Michelle.]
Stanley I. Behm, the only 50-year charter member of the Pioneer Grange 1777 in Topton, died yesterday in his home at 110 E. Weiss St., Topton. He was 84. Born in Longswamp Township, he was a son of the late William and Susannah (Schoyer) Behm. He was a member and former counselor of the Christ Lutheran Church in Dryville where he taught Sunday School for many years. Behm's late wife was the former Verna Rothermel. As an active member of the community he served on the building committee for the construction of the church in 1915. He was a farmer for many years and 10 years prior to his retirement he served as farm superintendent at the Topton Lutheran Home. He was a member, charter member, and past master of the Pioneer Grange No. 1777, Topton. He received the 50-year award as the only living charger member of the Grange at its 50th anniversary ceremonies earlier this month. He was also a member and organizer of the senior citizens organization in Topton. Surviving are a son, William V., of Topton; two daughters, Elda, wife of LeRoy Gambler, Bower; and Mary, wife of Daniel Adams of Mertztown R. 1; step-children, Paul Gangawere of Mertztown, and Ruth Delong at home; one brother, Mahlon of Mertztown; 13 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Services will be Wednesday at 1:30 p.m. from the Christ Lutheran Church, Dryville, Fleetwood R. 1.
[Source: Allentown Sunday Call-Chronicle, Sunday, March 30, 1969, page D-8. Submitted by Jerri.]
Susanna Maria (nee Schwoyer), wife of William Behm, died of paralysis at Topton, Monday, aged 64 years. The following brothers and sisters survive: William and John, both of Maxatawny township, and Mrs. John Sunday, near Hamburg. She leaves her husband and the following children: Mrs. George Carl, near Kutztown; Mrs. George Weaknecht, of Topton; Stanley, near Topton; Mahlon, of Topton; Mrs. Solon Heffner, Maxatawny township, and Mrs. George Reinert, of Fleetwood.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Thursday, December 7, 1916, page 5. Submitted by Jerri.]
William Behm, of near Topton, died suddenly at 5.30 o'clock last night at the home of his son, Stanley, with whom he resided, following a heart attack. He was aged 74 years, 2 months and 28 days. Mr. Behm was a son of the late Isaac and Mary, nee Deysher, Behm, and was born in Rockland township, Berks county. He was a member of the Lutheran congregation of Christ church, Dryville, and served as a deacon and elder of the church. His wife, Susan, nee schwoyer, Behm, died two years ago. There survive two sons, Stanley and Mahlon, near Topton; three daughters, Mrs. George Carl, Maxatawny; Mrs. George Weaknecht, Topton, and Mrs. Solon Heffner, Kutztown; twenty-one grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. One brother, Samuel, Dryville, and two sisters, Mrs. Amanda Trexler, Reading, and Mrs. Daniel Heist, Orwigsburg, also survive. The funeral will be held on Thursday morning at 9.30 o'clock, standard time, from his late home, the residence of his son, Stanley, near Topton, with further services in Christ church, Dryville, and interment in the adjoining cemetery. The Rev. William H. Kline will officiate.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Monday, June 24, 1929, page 7. Submitted by Jerri.]
William F Behm aged 24 years, 9 months and 9 days died of pneumonia at his residence in ??? Twp. He was bor the son of Frank and Ellen (Lutz) Behm. He was a member of St. John's Lutheran Church, Gibraltar. He leaves his parents and wife Anna (nee Delp). One son and the following brothers and sisters; Mrs. Claude Shadel, Elsie at home; Wayne, Charles, Webster, Francis, and Earl, all at home.
[Source: Reading Eagle, October 15, 1918, p. 4. Submitted by Michelle.]
A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated for Mary E. Behney, 56, of Michelle Drive, Exeter Township, who died August 21 in the Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, Dauphin County. She was the wife of Gerald A. Behney. Born in Elysburg, Northumberland County, she was a daughter of Florence L. (Willoughby) Quinton, Exeter Township, and the late Joseph D. Quinton Sr. She was co-owner of Quality Products and Services, Reading, for 16 years. Behney was a member of St. Catharine of Siena Roman Catholic Church, Exeter Township. She was a 1965 graduate of Central Catholic High School. She is survived by a son, Gerald J., Northmont. Other survivors include a brother, Joseph D. Quinton Jr., Exeter Township, and a sister, Sallie (Quinton) Orth, Stony Creek Mills. Burial was in Gethsemane Cemetery, Laureldale. The Lutz Funeral Home Inc., Mount Penn, was in charge of the arrangements.
[Source: Southern Berks News, August 27, 2003. Submitted by: Nancy McD.]
Alice Behringer, 88-year-old widow of Emmuel J. Behringer, died yesterday noon at her home, Washington St., Topton. Born in Maxatawny township, Berks county, a daughter of the late Jacob and Lovina (Rohrbach) Oswald, she was a member of the Reformed congregation of Maxatawny church. She is survived by two sons, Grover, at home; William of Kutztown; nine grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren and a sister, Mrs. James Weidner of Topton. Rev. Franklin D. Slifer will officiate at the services at 2:15 p.m. Friday at the Behringer home in Topton and the continued services in Maxatawny church. Burial will be in the church cemetery.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Wednesday, September 18, 1946, page 3. Submitted by Jerri.]
Emmanuel J. Behringer died yesterday morning at his home on Washington street, Topton, where he had resided for many years. Death was due to a complication of ailments. He was in his seventy-second year. He was a member of the Reformed sing of the Maxatawny Zion church and was a charter member of the Topton Fire company. Fraternally he was affiliated with the Topton lodges of the Knights of the Golden Eagle, Knights of Friendship, and P.O.S. of A., and the Mertztown lodge of the Order of Independent Americans. He is survived by his wife Alice, nee Oswald; three sons, Milton, Grover and William, all of Topton; two stepsons, Howard Fenstermacher, Topton, and Chester Fenstermacher, Kutztown; nine grandchildren, eleven great grandchildren and one brother, Willoughby Behringer, of Wescosville. Funeral services will be held Thursday at 1.30 p.m. at his late home, with further services in the Maxatawny Zion church. Interment will be made in the adjoining cemetery. Rev. George B. Smith will officiate.
[Source: Allentown Sunday Call-Chronicle, Sunday, January 13, 1935, page 7. Submitted by Jerri.]
Milton R. Behringer, a member of the Topton Fire Co., died at his home at 33 Washington St., Topton, yesterday. He was in his 57th year. Mr. Behringer was a son of Alice, nee Oswald, and the late Emmanuel Behringer. He was of the Reformed faith, Maxatawny church. He had been employed at the Jacobs Aircraft plant, Pottstown. Surviving are his wife, Mary, nee Berg, Behringer; a son, Cleon, Topton; two daughters, Mrs. Ivan Witwer, Shamrock, and Mrs. Howard Trexler, Kutztown R.D.; two brothers, Grover, Topton, and William, Kutztown; a step-brother, Chester Fenstermacher, Kutztown, and eight grandchildren. Funeral services will be held on Sunday at 2 p.m. from the Schofer Funeral home, 107 Main St., Topton, with interment in the Maxatawny church cemetery. Rev. Franklin Slifer will officiate.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Thursday, April 1, 1943, page 10. Submitted by Jerri.]
Paul E. Behringer, native of Berks county, died Friday morning at the residence of his grandmother, Mrs. Alice Behringer, Washington St., Topton, aged 29 years, 11 months and 20 days. He was born in Longswamp township, Berks county, a son of Milton and the late Andora (DeLong) Behringer. Surviving are his father, step mother, grandmother, one brother, Cleon of Topton, and two sisters, Mrs. Ira Witwer of Shamrock and Mrs. Howard Trexler, Mertztown. The funeral will be held from his late home in Topton on Wednesday at 1:30 p.m. Continued services in Maxatawny church and interment in the adjoining cemetery. The Rev. Franklin Slifer will officiate.
[Source The Allentown Morning Call, Allentown, PA, Saturday, October 2, 1937, page 7. Submitted by Jerri.]
Benjamin E. Beiber, one of Topton's oldest and best-known residents, died at 11:15 a.m. yesterday at his home on Main St., Topton. He was 86 years old. Born in Longswamp township, he was a son of the late Jonas and Annie (Eck) Beiber. His wife is the former Mantana Gerhart. Until his retirement two years ago, he operated a general merchandise store in Topton for 55 years. Active in church work, he took a leading part in building the present edifice of Trinity Lutheran church and was a member of the Home department of that church's Sunday school. For many years he served on the trinity church council and in recent years was named an honorary member of that body. He also served as treasurer of the Union cemetery. Surviving are his wife, one son, Lloyd, Topton; one granddaughter, Eleanor, and one brother, George, Emmaus. Rev. William H. Kline will officiate at services Sunday at 1.30 p.m. from Schofer funeral home, Topton. Further services will be held in Trinity Lutheran church, Topton. Interment in Union cemetery. Calling hours are 7 to 9 p.m. Saturday.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Friday, October 24, 1947, page 11. Submitted by Jerri.]
William Beiber, aged 67 years, 5 months and 25 days, died Sunday a.m. after a lingering illness at his late home in Longsdale, Berks county. Deceased was never married. He is survived by 2 brothers, George, of Emaus, and Benjamin, of Topton; five sisters, Mary, at home; Mrs. Jonas Weiler, of Longswamp; Mrs. Elizabeth Dankel, Longswamp; Mrs. Susan Schlicher, of Allentown, and Mrs. Emma Fegley, of Cementon. Funeral from the residence of his brother Benjamin, at Topton, on Thursday, Sept. 25th at 2.30 p.m. All services at the house. Interment in Mertztown cemetery. Rev. W. S. Dry will officiate.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Tuesday, September 23, 1924, page 7. Submitted by Jerri.]
George Beidegam died on August 22d at Gibraltar, Berks county, age 61 years. He had been employed at the iron works there for 37 years.
[Source: Montgomery Ledger, Tuesday, August 31, 1886. Submitted by Diana.]
Beideman -- In Gilbertsville, September 22d, Samuel Beideman, aged 87 years, 7 months and 4 days.
[Source: Berks and Schuylkill Journal, October 3, 1874. Submitted by: Nancy.]
Beidler--In this city, on the 9th inst., Catharine, wife of Abraham Beidler, born Huffert, aged 39 years and 28 days. The friends and relatives of the family are respectfully invited to attend her funeral without further notice, from the residence of her husband, No. 508 South Fourth street on Tuesday afternoon at 2 1/2 o'clock. Services at the house. Interment at Charles Evans Cemetery.
[Source: Reading Times and Dispatch, Monday, August 12, 1872. Submitted by Nancy.]
Charles K. Beidler, for years a farmer and a resident of Macungie, died last night at nine o'clock at his home on Church street in Macungie. He had been ill for the past four years ever since he fell and received a slight bruise injury. For the past eighteen months he was bedfast. At his death he was aged 47 years, 7 months and 16 days. He was the son of Reuben and Sarah (nee Knetz) Beidler and was born in Berks county. He was an active member of Grace Lutheran church in Macungie and the Baptist Sunday school. Fraternally he was a member of the Friendly lodge, No. 65, I.O.O.F., Macungie, and the Macungie Encampment, No. 123, I.O.O.F. There survive his wife, Irene E. (nee Moll) and the following brothers and sisters: Ambrose Beidler, Zionsville; Cyrus Beidler, Boyertown; William Beidler, Alburtis; Mrs. William Reppert, Jacksonville; Mrs. George Kidd, Allentown; Mrs. William Mest, Alburtis R. 1; Mrs. Sallie Kiefer, Topton; Mrs. Warren Leh, Barto R. 1, and Miss Susan Beidler, of South Mountain. A son and daughter preceded him in death. Funeral arrangements have not been completed but burial will be made in Solomon's Union cemetery.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Tuesday, September 16, 1930, page 7. Submitted by Jerri.]
Florence E. Beidler, 87, formerly of Wernersville, died July 6 at 3:55 p.m. in ManorCare Health Services Inc., West Reading, where she had resided since Nov. 18, 2002. Her husband, Albert C. Beidler, died July 8, 1971. Born in Mohnton, she was a daughter of the late George Gring Sr. and Fannie E. (Shenk) Gring. Beidler was employed for 15 years as an examiner by the Valley Forge Flag Co., Womelsdorf, retiring in 1988. She was a member of St. John's Church, Host. Surviving are a son, Albert C. Jr., Wernersville; and two daughters, Shirley A. (Beidler) Kleinfelter and Katie I. (Beidler) Oldham, both of Lebanon. Other survivors include 11 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren and six great-great-grandchildren. Memorial services will be Saturday at 10 a.m. in the Edward J. Kuhn Funeral Home Inc., West Reading. Burial will be in Host Cemetery.
[Source: Reading Eagle, July 8, 2005. Submitted by: Nancy McD.]
James, the eight-year-old son of Mr. and Mrs. James Beidler, of Rittenhouse Gap, died on Thursday evening in terrible agony, suffering from a well developed attack of hydrophobia. The lad had been playing on the front porch of his home three months ago when a strange dog attacked him, badly lacerating his arm, and was driven away, only after a hard fight by the mother of the boy. A local treatment for hydrophobia was promptly administered and the wound healed nicely, the lad feeling as usual. On Tuesday of last week, however, grave symptoms manifested themselves and the sight of water and presence of light in the room threw the lad into convulsions. He had to be tied down in bed until evening, when death ended his pitiful sufferings. The funeral was held yesterday forenoon at Huff's Church, Rev. J. N. Blatt officiating.
[Source: Macungie Progress, Thursday, December 1, 1910, page 1. Submitted by Jerri.]
Minnie, a young daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Reuben Beidler, of near Clayton, died early Saturday morning, after a brief illness of pleurisy. The little girl had been in ill health the last year. Interment at Huff's Church.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Tuesday, March 15, 1904, page 1. Submitted by Jerri.]
Funeral services were held for Jesse J. Beiler, 85, formerly of Morgantown, who died March 18 in Garden Spot Village, New Holland, Lancaster County. He was predeceased by his first wife, Edith L. (Yoder) Beiler, in 1965, and by his second wife, Florence (Kurtz) Smoker Beiler, in 2000. Born in Mifflin County, Beiler was employed as a truck driver by Victor F. Weaver Inc., New Holland, until his retirement. He was a member of Conestoga Mennonite Church, west of Morgantown. Surviving are two sons, Newton Beiler, Morgantown, and Ray Beiler, Ephrata. Other survivors include a stepdaughter, Shirley (Smoker) Beiler, Camden, Del.; and a stepson, David Smoker, Morgantown. There are also nine grandchildren, six stepgrandchildren, eight great-grandchildren and seven stepgreat-grandchildren. He was predeceased by a daughter. Burial was in Ridgeview Mennonite Cemetery, Gordonville, Lancaster County. The Groff-High Funeral Home Inc., New Holland, was in charge of arrangements.
[Source: Southern Berks News, March 26, 2003. Submitted by: Nancy McD.]
Edwin J. Beiley, 64, died yesterday morning at his home in E. High St., Topton. He had been in the blacksmith business for 40 years. Born in Upper Macungie township, he was a son of the late Daniel and Bellissa (Levan) Beiley. He was a member of the Lutheran congregation of the Maxatawny church, and belonged to the Fraternal Order of Eagles, No. 839, Kutztown, and to the Topton Fire Co. Mr. Beiley leaves his widow, the former Agnes Pfeifly; three sisters, Mrs. Harry Bauer of Wescosville, Mrs. Robert Bauer, Breinigsville R.D., and Dora Beiley of Allentown; one brother, William Breinigsville R.D.
Note: Everywhere else I've seen this man's name, it's written as Edwin J. Bailey.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Wednesday, December 15, 1948, page 10. Submitted by Jerri.]
Mrs. Ruby (Schnabel) Beischl, 27, of 613 Cedar St., Allentown, died suddenly yesterday morning at her home. Born in Longswamp Township, Berks County, she was the wife of Raymond Beischl and the daughter of Stephen and Nettie Schnable. She was a member of St. Matthew's Lutheran Church, Allentown. Surviving with her husband are a son, Raymond Jr.; her parents; three brothers, Robert, Kutztown; Earl, Emmaus; Clarence of Allentown and two sisters, Pauline, wife of Stanley Rauch, Macungie, and Louise, wife of Joseph Pino, Philadelphia.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Thursday, February 5, 1959, page 30. Submitted by Jerri.]
Among the local survivors of Michael D. Beisswanger, 53, of Muhlenberg Township, who was dead on arrival June 1 in Reading Hospital, is his parents, Harold E. and Elaine (Hopkins) Beisswanger, Mohrsville.
[Source: Hamburg Area Item, June 11, 2003. Submitted by: Nancy McD.]
Hannah Eberhardt Beitenman, widow of Henry Seybert Beitenman and mother of Miss Florence B Beitenman, vice principal of the Reading High School for Girls, died of a complication of ailments at her home, 29 West Thirty-third St. Reiffton. Death followed an illness which had its inception last November, although she was confined to bed only three weeks. She was aged 69 years 4 months and 28 days. Born in Hamburg, Mrs. Beitenman spent her early years in that borough later moving to this city and three years ago to Reiffton. Her parents were John and Rebecca (Lewars) Scott. preceded her in death as well as her husband; who died a number of years ago. She is survived by two children, Miss Florence B Beitenman, at home and Walter S of Barberton, OH; also three grandchildren and three brothers, as follows; Charles E, Steelton; Henry, Pottsville; and Walter, Chicago.
[Source: Reading Eagle, May 2, 1924, p. 2. Submitted by Michelle.]
Mrs. Fianna Beitleman, widow of John Beitleman, died at the home of her daughter and son-in-law, Mr. and Mrs. Albert Hassler near Locust Valley, Coopersburg R. 2, on Saturday evening at 10 o'clock of a complication of diseases, aged 81 years, 9 months and 11 days. Mrs. Beitleman was a remarkably well preserved old lady up to about four months ago. During the summer she visited her former neighbors and acquaintances in Breinigsville and it was there that she took sick. She was bedfast four weeks. She was married twice. Her first husband, Samuel McNabb, died 38 years ago. Her second husband, Mr. Beitleman, also died some years ago. She is survived by one son, Samuel McNabb, of Allentown, and two daughters, Mrs. Albert Hassler, of Coopersburg R. 2, and Emma McNabb of Philadelphia. Seven grandchildren and one great grandchild. Funeral services will be held at the Mertztown church on Thursday afternoon at 2 o'clock. Relatives and friends are invited to attend without further notice. Burial will be made in adjoining cemetery. Rev. William Drey will officiate.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Monday, November 1, 1926, page 7. Submitted by Jerri.]
The Allentown area lost two veteran hotelmen by death. They were Alvin F. Beitler, 71, for 37 years operator of the Hensingersville hotel, and John Rowe, 69, for many years proprietor of a hotel at Seidersville. Mr. Beitler died at 8 a.m. after several years of failing health. He was seriously stricken nine months ago. He was the father of Thomas Beitler, burgess of Alburtis. He was active in his hotel business, Alburtis R. 1, from 1909 until he became ill. Prior to 1909, he was a custom farmer. He was born in Lower Macungie township, a son of the late Zacharias and Fianna, nee Fox, Beitler. With the exception of a few years during which he lived in Berks county, he resided in the Alburtis area all his life. Fraternally he was affiliated with Kutztown Aerie 839, P.O.E.; Alburtis fire Co. And Tox-e-lox Tribe, No. 398, Order of Redmen, Alburtis. He was a member of the Lutheran congregation of Longswamp church. Surviving are his widow, the former Minnie E. Roth; the son, Thomas, Alburtis burgess and correspondent for the Call-Chronicle newspapers; a daughter, Elsie, wife of Charles Reifinger, Topton; two grandsons and a brother, Milton of Bowers. Rev. Wilson hartzell will conduct services at 2 p.m. Saturday in the Schmoyer funeral home, Breinigsville, and burial in the Longswamp cemetery. Friends may call Friday from 7 to 9 p.m.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Wednesday, March 19 1947, page 11. Submitted by Jerri.]
Bessie Mae Beitler, daughter of Harry and Elizabeth, nee Meck, Beitler, died at her late home on Furnace street, Emmaus, yesterday morning at 8 o'clock, aged 17 years, 9 months and 7 days. Deceased is survived by the parents, one brother and three sisters. She was born in Berks county, January 10, 1905. Funeral services will be conducted from her late home on Friday afternoon at 1 o'clock, with regular services in Longswamp Lutheran and Reformed church, near Mertztown, Berks county. Rev. W. Bond officiating. Interment will be made in cemetery adjoining.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Wednesday, October 18, 1922, page 7. Submitted by Jerri.]
Services will be Saturday for Edith H. (Shaner) Beitler, 79, of East Sixth Street, Boyertown, who died December 16 in the Sanatoga Center in Lower Pottsgrove. She was the widow of Lester M. Beitler. Born in District Township, she was a sewing machine operator for many years at the former Mistee Lingerie Co. in Boyertown until her retirement. Beitler was a member of St. Joseph's Hill Lutheran Church in Boyertown. She is survived by two sisters, Elda M. Stanley and Effie M. Heydt, both of Gilbertsville; and two brothers, Walter Shaner of Barto, and Paul M. Shaner of Gilbertsville. She was predeceased by a brother and three sisters. Friends may call from 10 to 11 a.m. Saturday at the church, 244 Koch Road, Boyertown. Services will be at 11 a.m. with the Rev. Vicki L. Reeser officiating. Burial will be in Hill Church Cemetery in Pike Townhip. The arrangements were handled by the Linwood W. Ott Funeral Home, Boyertown.
[Source: Boyertown Area Times, December 19, 2002. Submitted by: Nancy McD.]
Following an illness of the past three weeks from complications, Mrs. Elizabeth, nee Meck, widow of Harry Beitler, passed away Thursday night at her home, 552 Jubilee street, Emaus, in her 47th year. Mrs. Beitler was a native of Berks county and a daughter of David H. Meck and his wife, Mary Jane Minner Meck. Her husband preceded her in death several years ago. She is survived by her parents, who resided in Longswamp, and the following children: Mrs. Herbert Schwartz, Macungie; and Mrs. Woodrow Hieter, Mildred, Clifford and Bernard, of Emaus. There also survive her maternal grandmother, Mrs. Catherine Minner, Shamrock; three grandchildren and these brothers and sisters: Mrs. Harry Werst, Hancock; Mrs. Charles Doll, Trexlertown; David and Elmer Meck, Longswamp; Dewey Meck, Alburtis; and Harry Meck, Emaus.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Friday, May 19, 1933, page 7. Submitted by Jerri.]
Ellen Melinda, widow of Abraham Beitler, after an illness of four weeks died Sunday afternoon at the residence of her son-in-law, Irvin Eschbach, Reading, aged 82 years and 11 days. Deceased was born in Rockland township and was a daughter of the late Reuben and Lydia Conrad. She had been making her home in Reading 15 years. She was one of the oldest members of the Lutheran congregation of Huff's church. There remain three sons and four daughters, Arades B. and Howard B. Reinert, both of Huff's church; Nicholas b. Reinert, Reading; Alice, wife of Irvin Eschbach, at whose home deceased passed away; Jennie, wife of Harry Gery, Reading; Hannah, wife of John Reinert, Boyertown, and Mrs. Villian Kistler, Allentown. Surviving also are two sisters, Mrs. Charles Eck, Alburtis, R.D. 1; Mrs. Hannah Rauch, Reading; one brother, John, Alburtis R.D. 1; 16 grandchildren and 22 great-grandchildren.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Wednesday, March 23, 1927, page 7. Submitted by Jerri.]
Complications incident to old age was the illness that caused the death Saturday afternoon at two o'clock of Mrs. Fianna Beitler, widow of Zacharias Beitler, at the home of her son, Milton Beitler, on the road between Alburtis and Shamrock. She was aged 81 years, 5 months and 4 days. She was born in Berks county, the daughter of Harry Fox and Lydia (nee Rohrbach) Fox. She had been in feeble health for the past few years and since August had been bedfast. Her husband preceded her in death about nine years ago. The deceased is survived by two sons, Milton Beitler, of Alburtis R. 1, and Alvin Beitler, of Macungie R. 1. Two adopted daughters, Mrs. Harry DeLong, Allentown, and Mrs. Charles Kline, Bowers, also survive. A brother, William Fox, resided at Shannon, Illinois. There are two grandchildren and a great-grandchild. The funeral will be held Wednesday at 1:30 p.m., D.S.T., with services in the Longswamp church, of which she was a member. Interment will be made in the Longswamp cemetery.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Sunday, September 21, 1930, page 7. Submitted by Jerri.]
Allentown. July 28.--Harry Beitler for many years an em1oyee in the docks at East Penn Junction, died from a complication of ailments at his home, 552 Jubilee street, Emaus. He was in his 49th year.
Mr. Beitler, born in Berks county, was the son of John and the late Amanda (Wessner) Beitler. He is survived by his father, his wife, Lizzie (Meck), five children, Mrs. Herbert Schwartz, Emaus; Loie and Mildred Bietler, Clifford and Bernard Beitler, at home; two brothers, Edwin, of Longswamp, and John, of Perkiomen Junction. There are also two grandchildren to survive him.
[Source: Reading Eagle, July 28, 1931. Submitted by: Nancy.]
James B. Beitler, for 17 years proprietor of the American House at Fogelsville, died last night in Allentown Hospital where he was a patient the last 17 days. He was 83. Beitler made his home with a daughter and son-in-law, Mr. and Mrs. Ramen Acker of Fogelsville. He was a resident of the community for 45 years. He operated the hotel until retirement 10 years ago. Born in Hereford Township, Berks County, he was a son of the late Augustus and Sarah (Benfield) Beitler. His first wife, the former Sallie Wetzel, and his second wife, the former Minnie Stufflet, preceded him in death. At one time, he worked for the Fogelsville Shirt Factory. He was a member of Fogelsville Fire Co., St. John's United Church of Christ, Lehigh Encampment 118 and Macungie Lodge 231, IOOF, all Fogelsville, and Knights of the Golden Eagle 431, Pleasant Corner. Besides Mrs. Acker, five other daughters survive, Mrs. Fred Stufflet and Mrs. Sallie Strauss, both Fogelsville; Mrs. Henry Laudenslager and Mrs. LeRoy Peiffer, both Wescosville R. 1, and Mrs. George Heintzelman, Slatington R. 2. Also surviving are two sons, Charles, Fogelsville, and Francis, Breinigsville R. 1; two brothers, Calvin, Meyersville, and Augustus, Fogelsville; a stepbrother, Lloyd Moll, Mertztown R. 1; 26 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren. Three daughters, a son and a sister also preceded him in death. Services will be at 1:30 p.m. Saturday in the Keller Funeral Home, Fogelsville, with viewing 7-8:30 p.m. Friday.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Wednesday, July 30, 1958, page 28. Submitted by Jerri.]
An acute attack of Bright's disease suffered at a time she was barely recovering from a recent illness resulted in the death of Jean Catherine, daughter of Frank G. and Jennie Fink Beitler at 3 o'clock yesterday morning at the home of the parents along Kutztown R. 1. The child was aged 5 years. She was a member of the Sunday school of St. John's Lutheran church, Kutztown, and was beloved by all with whom she came in contact. Besides the parents there survive two sisters and three brothers, Dorothy, Christine, George, Frank J., and James. The funeral will be held Friday afternoon with services at the home of the parents at 2 o'clock, daylight saving time, Rev. J. W. Bittner officiating. Interment will be made in the Highland cemetery, this city.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Wednesday, August 14, 1929, page 7. Submitted by Jerri.]
John Beitler, a retired farmer of Longswamp township, Berks county, died yesterday at the home of his son, John Beitler, Spruce street, Topton, aged 82 years, 3 months and 11 days. He was a son of the late Reuben and Lydia, nee Conrad, Beitler and is survived by two sons, John, Topton, and Edward, Longswamp, also by eleven grandchildren and a number of great-grandchildren. His wife, Amanda, nee Wessner, Beitler, died some years ago. He was a member of the Lutheran wing of the Longswamp church. The funeral will be held Friday at 1.30 o'clock, at the funeral parlors of Shofer and Son, Topton. Interment will follow in Longswamp cemetery. Rev. W. F. Bond will officiate.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Monday, December 3, 1934, page 7. Submitted by Jerri.]
Rev. B. E. Kramlich, of Kutztown, will officiate at the funeral of John Beitler, of Rockland, Berks county, who died the other day of a complication of ills, aged 80 years. The funeral will take place at the Mertz church, above Lyons, to-morrow.
[Source: Allentown Democrat, Wednesday, April 18, 1894, page 3. Submitted by Jerri.]
WERNERSVILLE John H. Beitler, formerly of Topton and a retired railroad employe, died Wednesday morning here. He was 67. Beitler retired five years ago after 35 years as a signal maintenance man with the Reading Co. He lived at 33 S. Spruce St. in Topton. Born in Longswamp Township, Berks County, he was a son of the late John and Amanda Wessner Beitler. He was a member of the Lutheran congregation of St. Pauls Union Church, Longswamp; Mertztown Rod and Gun Club; Ray A. Master American Legion Post, Topton; Topton Fire Co., Alburtis Redmen Lodge and Reading Co. Relief Assn. Surviving are his wife, Lizzie Dey Beitler, Topton; a daughter, Florence, wife of Norman Geist, Blandon; a stepdaughter, Pauline, wife of John Schlenner, West Lawn; two sons, Ernest, Lansdale, and Robert, Weaversville; a brother Edwin, Mertztown R.D., and six grandchildren. Services will be at 2 p.m. Saturday in the Schofer Funeral Home, Topton. Viewing from 7 to 9 p.m. Friday.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Thursday, December 4, 1958, page 44. Submitted by Jerri.]
Mrs. Minnie E. Beitler, 71, died Sunday at the home of her son and daughter-in-law, Mr. and Mrs. Thomas A. Beitler, 106 N. Main St., Alburtis. Born in Longswamp Township, Berks County, she was a daughter of the late Harrison and Anna Lovina Krause Roth. She was a member of Longswamp E-R Church, and was a member of the Alberta Council 156, Daughters of American, Alburtis. She was also a member of the Ladies Auxiliary of Alburtis Fire Company. With her late husband, she operated the Hensinger Hotel for 40 years until 1947. She is survived by her son, Thomas, and a daughter, Elsie, wife of Charles Reisinger, Topton. She is also survived by two grandchildren, Frederick Beitler, Alburtis, and Charles Reisinger Jr., Mertztown R. 1. She was predeceased by her husband, Albert F. Beitler, in March, 1947.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Tuesday, June 30 1953, page 29. Submitted by Jerri.]
Reuben H. G. Beitler, a retired farmer, died of complications at 6:15 Tuesday evening at the home of his son-in-law and daughter, Mr. and Mrs. George Kidd, 1139 Green street, in his 70th year. Mr. Beitler suffered a stroke of apoplexy two years ago, from which he never fully recovered. He had been bedfast for two weeks. Deceased was born in Berks county, a son of the late Reuben and Lydia (Konrad) Beitler. There survive ten children: Ambrose K., of Zionsville R. 1; Charles K., of Breinigsville; Cyrus K., of Boyertown; Katie, wife of William Reppert, of Esterly; Annie, wife of George Kidd, this city; Christiana, wife of William Mest; Ella, wife of Warren leh; Miss Susan K. Beitler, and William E. Beitler, all of Barto; and Sallie, widow of George Keiser, of Topton. Eighteen grandchildren also survive, together with a brother and three sisters: John Beitler and Mrs. Charles Eck, of Longswamp, Berks county; Ella Reinert, of Reading, and Hannah Rauch, of Wernersville. His wife, Sarah (Knetz) Beitler, and four children preceded him in death. Mr. Beitler was a member of the Lutheran wing of Huffs church, Berks county. Funeral arrangements have not yet been made.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Wednesday, February 10, 1926, page 17. Submitted by Jerri.]
Mrs. Reuben Beitler died of general debility at the residence of her daughter, Mrs. James Rohrbach, Henningsville, aged 82 years, 11 months and 21 days. The following children survive: Zacharias, of Alburtis; John, of Longswamp; Reuben, of Clayton; Ellen, wife of Abraham Reinert, of Huff's Church; Sabina, wife of Charles Eck, Henningsville, and Lydia, wife of James Rohrbach. There are thirty grandchildren and seventeen great-grandchildren. Peter Conrad, of Longswamp, is a brother of the deceased.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Friday, April 1, 1904, page 8. Submitted by Jerri.]
Susan Sabina Beitler, daughter of the late Reuben and Sarah (Knetz) Beitler, died at her home in Wernersville, aged 34 years. Born in Hereford township, she was a member of the Lutheran congregation of Huff's church. She is survived by one son, Earl Mest, Alburtis, R. D. 2; five sisters, Mrs. William Reppert, Esterly; Mrs. George Kidd, Allentown; Mrs. William Mest and Mrs. Warren Leh, Alburtis, R.D., and Mrs. Sallie Keiser, Topton, and three brothers, Ambrose, Zionsville; Cyrus, Boyertown, and William Beitler, Alburtis. Funeral services in Huff's church, Saturday at 2 p.m.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Friday, January 25, 1935, page 7. Submitted by Jerri.]
Victoria H. Beitler, wife of Milton F. Beitler, died at her home, R. 1 Alburtis, late Saturday night. She had suffered a stroke last February, made a partial recovery, and suffered a relapse last Wednesday. She was 59 years old. Born in Maxatawny township (Berks), daughter of the late John B. and Emma (Hawkins) Stoudt, she was a member of the Longswamp Reformed church and Council No. 156, Daughters of America, Alburtis. Her husband, three brothers, John of Huntingdon, Wilson of Allentown, Calvin of Mertztown, and a sister, Mrs. Lizzie Merkel, Alburtis, survive. Rev. Donald Englert will officiate at services at her home Thursday at 2 p.m. Burial will be made in the Longswamp church cemetery.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Monday, July 12, 1943, page 8. Submitted by Jerri.]
William, Jr., infant son of William K. Beitler and Carrie (nee Williams), of Alburtis, died on Friday after a short illness with pneumonia, aged 3 months and 7 days. Funeral services were held at the house and in Huff's church on Wednesday afternoon. Interment was made in the adjoining cemetery. Clinton Schmoyer, Breinigsville, was in charge and Rev. William F. Bond officiated.
[Source: Shamrock news, Allentown Morning Call, Friday, May 11, 1928, page 13. Submitted by Jerri.]
Zacharias Beitler, a prominent citizen of Shamrock, died at his home at 4.30 p.m., Sunday, following an apoplectic stroke. He was 72 years of age. For the past thirteen years he had been an invalid and for the past five weeks had been bedfast. Mr. Beitler was prominent in the township politics for many years and held the offices of road supervisor and school director for several terms. He is survived by his wife, Fianna Fox Beitler, and two sons, Milton, of Alburtis, and Alvin, of Henningsville; two brothers, Reuben, of Hereford, and John, of Longswamp; and four sisters, Mrs. Jane Rohrbach and Mrs. Charles Eck, Longswamp; Mrs. Ella Reinert, Reading, and Mrs. Charles Rauch, Wernersville. He was a member of the Longswamp Lutheran church, Castle No. 320, Knights of the Golden Eagle, of Alburtis. Funeral services will be held at his home on Friday at 2 p.m., followed by interment in the Longswamp cemetery.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Tuesday, August 9, 1921, page 7. Submitted by Jerri.]
Ann Belack, 80, of Quakertown, died Monday, Oct. 28, 2002 at St. Luke's Quakertown Hospital. Funeral services were held Nov. 1. Born in Bethlehem, she was the daughter of the late Joseph and Katie (Belac) Belac. She was a sewing machine operator for Thermco in Quakertown. She was a known folk artist of Pennsylvania Dutch paintings. She was also a well-known ceramist in the Bucks County area. She was a graduate of the former Amity School in Springfield Township and the former Springfield High School, Pleasant Valley. She is survived by: one brother, Ivan J. Belac of Quakertown; two nieces and a nephew; two great nieces and six great nephews. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, High Point Professional Bldg., 700 Horizon Circle, Suite 201, Chalfont, PA 18914. Arrangements: C. R. Strunk Funeral Home Inc., Quakertown.
[Source: Quakertown Free Press, November 7, 2002. Submitted by: Nancy McD.]
Private services were held for Lester F. Bell, 88, of Knoll Lane, Gilbertsville, who died June 23 in the Montgomery County Geriatric and Rehabilitation Center in Royersford. He was the widower of Helen (Tyma) Bell. Born in Pottstown, he was a burner for the Bethlehem Steel Corp. in Pottstown for 30 years before retiring in 1976. He was an Army veteran of World War II. Surviving is a son, James F. Bell of Pottstown; and two grandchildren. The arrangements were handled by the John P. Feeney Funeral Home of Reading.
[Source: Boyertown Area Times, June 26 2003. Submitted by: Nancy McD.]
Services will be held July 20 at 4 p.m. for Mary Louisa Bell, 82, of Walnut Woods, Boyertown, formerly of Park Street, Pennside, who died July 5 in Mifflin Center, Cumru Township, where she had been a patient. Her husband, John W. Bell, died in 1996. Born in Reading, she had been employed for 15 years as a salesperson by Whitner's Department Store, retiring in 1979. She was a graduate of Wernersville High School. Bell served as a former secretary of the Reading Hospital Ladies Auxiliary. She is survived by two sons, David W., Cumru Township, and Stephen D., Wyomissing. Other survivors include a sister and seven grandchildren. Burial will be in Charles Evans Cemetery. The Bean Funeral Homes Inc., Shillington, handled the arrangements.
[Source: Boyertown Area Times, July 10, 2003. Submitted by: Nancy McD.]
Reuben M. Bell, of Monocacy, a former Democratic committeeman of Union Township, where he lived, died yesterday in Reading Hospital. He was 76. A native of Robeson Township, in Berks County, Bell served as township tax collector for 22 years. He served as a county commissioner from 1936 to 1940, and was engaged in a coal and lumber business in Monocacy. He was also a farmer. He was a member of St. Paul's Evangelical and Reformed church, Birdsboro, Birds Nest 116, Fraternal Order of Orioles, and the Fraternal Order of Eagles, Reading. Surviving are his wife, the former H. Mabel Gernerd; two brothers, John, Monocacy, and William, of Portsmouth, Ohio; two sisters, Mrs. Alice Kellum, Philadelphia, and Mrs. Sallie Moore of Norristown. Services will be at 1 p.m. Friday in the Shalkop Funeral Home, Birdsboro, and at 2:30 p.m. in the Maxatawny Evangelical and Reformed Church, Kutztown.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Tuesday, June 14, 1955, page 20. Submitted by Jerri.]
Mrs. Katie Beller (nee Hilbert), of Macungie, died at the resident of her mother, Mrs. Hilbert, at Benedict, near Kutztown. Mrs. Beller was on a visit to her mother when she was taken ill with grip and pneumonia. Her age was 19 years. Besides her mother, deceased is survived by her husband in Macungie.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Thursday, March 25, 1909, page 13. Submitted by Jerri.]
Bellman - In Cumru, August 26th, Sabilla Bellman, widow of Daniel Bellman, aged about 81 years.
[Source: Berks and Schuylkill Journal, September 30, 1871. Submitted by Kathy.]
Barry L. Bender, 59, Reading, died of natural causes May 6 at 2:09 a.m. in St. Joseph Medical Center, where he had been a patient for one day. He was the husband of Rita M. (Mohr) Bender. Born in Reading, he was a son of the late Robert L. and Mary A. (Dietrich) Bender. Bender had been employed for nine years as a custodian by the Reading School District, last working in 1998. He is also survived by a son, Barry L. Jr., and a daughter, Tracy L. Bender, both of Reading. Other survivors include a brother, Gerald A., Shillington; and two sisters, Nancy (Bender) Brennan and Deborah (Bender) Pflum, both of Reading. There are also six grandchildren. Services will be Wednesday at 10 a.m. in Whelan Schwartz Funeral Home Inc. Burial will be in Forest Hills Memorial Park, Reiffton.
[Source: Reading Eagle, Sunday, May 8, 2005. Submitted by Nancy.]
Died of stomach troubles, aged 33 years, at 2:15 P.M., Sunday, at his residence, 520 Bingaman, after an illness of nine days. Deceased was a son of Levi and Susanna Bender and was born in Robesonia, from which place he came to this city 21 years ago. When a boy he secured a position at the Reading Hardware Works and worked there ever since. He was a brass turner before his illness. A widow, Sallie, nee Morris; a son, Frank; his parents and these brothers ad sisters survive: George, Harry, Morris, William, John, Mrs. Peter Moyer, Mrs. Mabra B. Slater, Mrs. Charles Keehn and Annie Bender. Deceased was a member of Grace Lutheran Church.
[Source: Reading Eagle, March 16, 1903. Submitted by Justine.]
The funeral of Charles Bender took place from his residence, 520 Bingaman at 2 P.M. Rev. W. H. Myers conducted services. The remains lay in a walnut casket, with silver trimmings and plate, and were attired in a black suit with patent leather slippers. The bearers were: Samuel Stahl, Samuel Helfert, Charles Wolfskill, and George Morris. Among the out-of town people present were: Mr. and Mrs. Benj. Tobias, Bethel; Mr. and Mrs. Charles Craig, Phila.; Mr. and Mrs. Arbor, Pottstown. The tributes included a clock on pedestial of natural flowers; widow and son; pillow on pedestial, borthers and sisters; lyre on pedestial, parents; wax broken wheel, members of the Junction Club; cluster of carnations and ferns, Mr. and Mrs. Charles Swambach; star on pedestial, neices, Catharine and Emily Morris; cluster of carnations, Mr. and Mrs.Charles Morris; cluster of carnations, Miss Kate Bechtel; broken wheel, shopmates at the Readig Hardward Works; cluster of La France roses, Mr. and Mrs. Mebra B. Slater; elderdown blanket, widow. Interment in Aulenbach Cemetery. Funeral Director, F.F. Seidel.
[Source: Reading Eagle, March 19, 1903. Submitted by Justine.]
A memorial service was held for Leroy H. Bender, 74, of Pottstown, formerly of Boyertown, who died October 30 in ManorCare Health Services in Pottstown. He was born in Red Hill and was a member of the Friendship Hook and Ladder Co. and the Veterans of Foreign Wars, both of Boyertown. Bender was an Army veteran who served during the Korean War. Bender retired from Telefelx Inc. in Royersford. Surviving are four sons, Kevin R. Bender of State College, Jeff L. Bender and Timothy A. Bender, both of Reading, and Douglas K. Bender of Doylestown; a daughter, Claudia M. Bender of Voorhees, N.J. Also two brothers, Robert H. Bender of Boyertown and Harold H. Bender of Milford Square; three grandchildren; and one great-grandchild. Contributions may be made to New Hanover Lutheran Church, 2941 Lutheran Road, Gilbertsville, PA 19525; or to ManorCare Health Services, 724 N. Charlotte St., Pottstown, PA 19464. Burial was private. The arrangements were handled by the Catagnus Funeral Home, Boyertown.
[Source: Boyertown Area Times, November 7, 2002. Submitted by: Nancy McD.]
Retired Carpenter Dead. Levi S. Bender was in 82d year native of Shartlesville.
Levi S. Bender, aged 81 years and 1 day died at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Frank Schofer, 522 Bingaman street, at 12:15 a.m. today. Deceased had been ill with congestion of the liver for several months and became bedfast six weeks ago.
Deceased was born in Shartlesville and came to reading 35 years ago. He was a carpenter but retired from active work some years ago. He was a member of grace Lutheran church.
His wife Susannah died 21 months ago. The following children remain: Elizabeth, wife of Frank J. Schofer; Sallie, wife of Charles Keehn; Valllie, wife of Peter L. Moyer, and John and George Bender, all of reading; also eight grandchildren. He was the last of his parents' family.
[Source: Reading Eagle, March 12, 1917. Submitted by: Justine]
The funeral of Levi S. Bender was held from his residence, 522 Bingaman street. The remains were attired in a black suit and rested in a square-cornered black broadcloth-covered casket with silver extension handles, silver trimmings and plate with name and age inscribed. Rev. William h. Myers was in charge of the services which were held at the house. Interment was made in Aulenbach's cemetery. Undertaker Auman had charged.
[Source: Reading Eagle, March 15, 1917. Submitted by Justine.]
Services will be Friday for Marie E. Bender, 81, of the Evangelical Congregational Church Retirement Village Stone Ridge Campus, Myerstown, Lebanon County, who died May 13 in Good Samaritan Hospital, Lebanon. Her husband, Luther M. Bender, died in 1973. Born in Washington Township, she was a member of Hetzel's United Church of Christ, Pine Grove, Schuylkill County. She was a life member of the Mount Aetna Fire Company. Bender is survived by a daughter, Geraldine Bender, Myerstown, and four sons: Clyde and Lee, both of Pine Grove, and Charles and Gerald, both of Myerstown. There are also 14 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. Services will be Friday at 11 a.m. in H. L. Snyder Funeral Home Inc., Pine Grove. Burial will be in Hetzel's Cemetery, Pine Grove.
[Source: Boyertown Area Times, May 22, 2003. Submitted by: Nancy McD.]
Sarah K. (Morris) Bender, widow of Charles Bender, 67, died this morning at her home, 806 Bingamna St. Survivng are one son, Frank L. of Coral Gables, Fla., one sister, Mrs. Esther Craig, of this place, and three brothers, Isaac, of this place; Grover , of Lebanon, and Jack Cardiff, of Ohio; three grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Funeral arragments in charge of the lutz Funeral Home.
[Source: Reading Eagle, December 3, 1940. Submitted by Justine.]
Services were held for Rose Ann (Urban) Benedict, 66, of Cleaver House Road, Boyertown, and formerly of Georgia, and companion of Paul Schoenly, who died December 14 in ManorCare, Pottstown. Born in Colebrookdale, she owned and operated several restaurants in Georgia and was an auctioneer for many years. She was an in-home private caregiver in Georgia. She worked in nursing homes in Georgia and Pennsylvania in the last 10 years. In addition to her companion, she is survived by two sons, Ronald Powell of Towanda, Bradford County, and Ellis Brewer of Griffin, Ga.; two daughters, Dawn Powell of Indiana and Linda Patrick of Backshear, Ga.; four brothers, Paul Urban of Gilbertsville, Robert Urban of Pottstown, Thomas Urban of Clayton, Del., and Richard Urban of Phoenixville; two sisters, Helen Willman of Boyertown and Mary Menkins of Malvern. Also eight grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by a sister. Contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 75, Pennsburg, PA 18073. The arrangements were handled by the Falk Funeral Home, Pennsburg.
[Source: Boyertown Area Times, December 19, 2002. Submitted by: Nancy McD.]
Gertrude M. Benevit, 94, Cumru Township, died June 22 at 6:30 a.m. in ManorCare Health Services Inc., West Reading, where she had resided since Oct. 6. Her husband, Clair S. Benevit, died Feb. 17, 1970. Born in Angelica, Cumru Township, she was a daughter of the late Edwin and Elnora K. (Miller) Bixler. Benevit was employed as a forelady by Leininger Knitting Mills, Mohnton, retiring in 1980. She was a member of Immanuel United Church of Christ, Shillington. Surviving is a daughter, Dorothy E. (Benevit) Keffer, Cumru Township. Other survivors include two grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Services will be Monday at 11 a.m. in the Klee Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Shillington. Burial will be in Forest Hills Memorial Park, Reiffton.
[Source: Reading Eagle, June 23, 2005. Submitted by: Nancy McD.]
Roy A. Benevit, 73, Spring Township, formerly of Cumru Township, died June 19 at 10:30 p.m. in Spruce Manor Nursing & Rehabilitation Center, West Reading, where he had resided three weeks. Born in Reading, he was a son of the late George F. and Lenora (Riegel) Benevit. Benevit was employed for 23 years by the Auman Funeral Homes, Reading, retiring in 1989. He was an Army veteran of the Korean War. Surviving are several nieces and nephews. Graveside services will be private in Alsace Cemetery, Muhlenberg Township. John P. Feeney Funeral Home Inc. is in charge of arrangements.
[Source: Reading Eagle, June 20, 2005. Submitted by: Nancy McD.]
Adam W. Benfield, retired school teacher, died on Monday at his home near Landis Store, aged 69 years. He was a son of the late George and Mary (Weller) Benfield. Surviving are his widow, Mary (Gilberg) Benfield; two sons, Elmer, of Bechtelsville, and Ambrose, of Zieglersville; a daughter, Cora, wife of Ross Hasson, of Frederick; six grandchildren; three brothers, Henry, of Bechtelsville; Jonathan of Palm, and Elam of Bally, and a sister, Mrs. Rebecca Nester, New Berlinsville. Funeral Friday at 1:30.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Wednesday, April 13, 1938, page 7. Submitted by Jerri.]
Mrs. Amanda Y. Benfield, wife of Frank N. Benfield, a Berks county surveyor and for 57 years justice of the peace near Huffs church, Alburtis R. 1, died early yesterday in the Allentown hospital. Mrs. Benfield, a patient at the hospital since Dec. 26, was 63 years old. She was the daughter of David G. and Sarah, nee Yeakel, Siesholtz of Hereford township. A member of the Lutheran wing of Huffs church, she was a member of the Ladies' Aid society and of the Adult Bible class of the church. Besides her husband, there survive these children: Elva, wife of Clarence K. Walbert, Allentown R. 3; Walter A., at home; Mrs. Eliza Ann Shankweiler, Kutztown; Claude, Perkasie; Minnie, wife of Marvin K. Letcher, Reading; Irwin, Topton; Mary Ann, wife of Henry Fox, Breinigsville; Franklin, Alburtis R. 1; Mrs. Lillie Oberholtzer, Allentown; 25 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren. Also surviving are these brothers and sisters: Catharine, wife of Abraham Gerhart, Boyertown; Mrs. Sallie Moyer, Maxatawny; David, Youngstown, Ohio; Jacob, Allentown; Abraham, Bethlehem. Funeral services will be held from the late home on Monday at 1.30 p.m. with continued services in Huff's church and burial in the churchyard. The Rev. William F. Bond and the Rev. James N. Blatt will officiate.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Friday, January 3, 1941, page 7. Submitted by Jerri.]
Amandus S. Benfield of Macungie R. 1 died Tuesday night at his home. He was 84. He was the husband of Amelia Rhoads Benfield. Born in Washington Township, Berks County, he was a son of the late Jacob and Susanna Schoch Benfield. He was a member of Huffs United Church of Christ. He was a retired farmer and highway worker. Surviving in addition to his wife are two daughters: Bessie, Stowe, Montgomery County, and Verna, wife of Jonathan Bortz, New Berlinville, berks County; three sons, Warren, Boyertown R. 2, Charles, Barto R.D., and Curtis, Oley; 18 grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren, and two brothers, Jacob and Wallace, both of Allentown. Services will be at 2 p.m. Monday in the Schwenk Funeral Home, Boyertown. Viewing will be 7-9 p.m. Sunday.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Thursday, December 3, 1959, page 55. Submitted by Jerri.]
A graveside service and burial was held for Anna J. (Heacock) Benfield, 73, of East Philadelphia Avenue in Boyertown, who died January 30 in Pottstown Memorial Medical Center. She was the widow of Owen C. Benfield. Born in Colebrookdale, she worked as a preparation sander for the former Boyertown Auto Body Works until her retirement in 1973. She previously worked as a sewing machine operator for the Boyertown Casket Co. and Osan Manufacturing Co. in Boyertown. She was a member of the Good Shepherd United Church of Christ in Boyertown. Surviving are a son, Owen L. Benfield of Boyertown; one daughter, Marlene M. Herbst of Montgomery, Texas; four grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by a brother. Contributions may be made to Good Shepherd U.C.C. Memorial Fund, 35 W. Philadelphia Ave., Boyertown, PA 19512. Burial was in Fairview Cemetery, Boyertown. The arrangements were handled by the L. W. Ott Funeral Home, Boyertown.
[Source: Boyertown Area Times, February 6, 2003. Submitted by: Nancy McD.]
Mrs. Annie E. (Fox) Benfield of 39 E. Smith St., Topton, died Saturday at her home. She was 73. She was the widow of Irwin S. Benfield of Topton. Born in District Township, Berks County, she was the daughter of the late Obediah and Emmalina (Kline) Fox. She was a member of the Lutheran congregation of Huff's Church. She is survived by a son, Charles F., at home; a brother, Edwin F. Fox of Mertztown, and several nieces and nephews. Services will be at 2 p.m. Wednesday in the Earl A. Trexler Funeral Home, 25 E. Weiss St., Topton. Viewing will be 7-8:30 p.m. Tuesday.
[Source: The Morning Call, Allentown, PA, Monday, July 30, 1962, page 11. Submitted by Jerri.]
Daniel Benfield, residing on his farm in Hereford township, Berks county, died of a complication of diseases. He was born in Washington township in 1828, bringing his age to 91 years. When 42 years of age, he traveled considerably, settling in Canada, where he engaged in the petroleum business. After meeting with considerable success, he returned to his homestead here, which he still owned, after an absence of 20 years. He next engaged in farming. He was married to Catharine Leonard, hailing from France. They had the following children: Howard and Cyrus, now in California; Ambrose, Emaus; John and Hannah, Allentown, and Lydia, Easton. His wife preceded him in death 30 years. Funeral Thursday at 11 a.m. at Bethesda Meeting House, near Clayton. Undertaker Dimmig, of East Greenville, has charge.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Wednesday, January 29, 1919, page 7. Submitted by Jerri.]
On Tuesday noon of last week, Mrs. F. N. Benfield, of Huff's Church, died after a short illness. She is survived by her husband, seven children, and her parents, besides a number of brothers and sisters. She was about 35 years of age.
[Source: Allentown Democrat, Wednesday, October 26, 1898, page 3. Submitted by Jerri.]
Frank N. Benfield of Alburtis R. 1, oldest justice of the peace in years f service in Pennsylvania, died yesterday afternoon at Allentown hospital. He was admitted to the hospital four days ago on his 89th birthday. Squire Benfield, as he was known to his many friends, served as a justice of the peace for 66 years. When he was first elected at the age of 22, he was the youngest justice of the peace in the state. He also operated an insurance agency at his home near Huffs church. During recent years, most of that business had been handled by his son, Walter A. Benfield. But Squire Benfield continued his activity in various business and community organizations until the end. He served as a director for over 50 years and as vice president for many years, of the Windsor Mutual Assistance and Fire Insurance Co., of Hamburg. He also was a director of Lehigh Valley Mutual Fire Insurance Co. During his career, he served as surveyor for Berks county. He also was a director, and later a carrier, for over 50 years, of Farmers National bank of Pennsburg. He was a member of the Berks County Magistrates Assn. An active member of the Reformed congregation of Huffs church, Squire Benfield served on the church council for more than 20 years and was church treasurer for many years. Born in Bechtelsville, he was a son of the late Abraham and Lucinda (Rohrbach) Benfield. He had resided near Huffs church for the last 82 years. Squire Benfield was married twice. Both wives preceded him in death. His second wife, the former Amanda Y. Siesholtz, died 10 years ago. His first wife was the former Sarah Y. Siesholtz. Survivors include the following children: Mrs. Eliza Ann Shankweiler, Kutztown; Minnie, wife of Marvin Letcher, Reading; Claude Benfield, Perkasie; Frank S. Benfield, Alburtis R. 1; Mrs. Lillie Oberholtzer, Allentown; Elva, wife of Clarence Walbert, Cetronia; and Walter A. Benfield, at home. Also surviving are 27 grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren and two sisters, Mrs. Andora Fisher, Mohnton R. 1, and Mrs. Amanda Reifsnyder, Boyertown R. 2.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call,Saturday, April 21, 1951, page 5. Submitted by Jerri.]
Henry Benfield, of near Maple Grove, Longswamp township, Berks county, died on Sunday of gangrene, aged 69 years. He is survived by three daughters, Mrs. Edwin Fritch, at home; Mrs. John German, of New Jersey; Mrs. Harry Hensinger, of Allentown. The funeral will be held on Saturday at 9.30 a.m. with services and burial at Longswamp Church.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Tuesday, October 15, 1907, page 5. Submitted by Jerri.]
Henry Benfield, of near Maple Grove, Longswamp township, died on Sunday morning, of gangrene, aged 69 years. He is survived by three daughters, Ms. Edwin Fritch, at home; Mrs. John German, of New Jersey; Mrs. Harry Hensinger, of Allentown. The funeral will be held on Saturday at 9.30 a.m., with services and burial at Longswamp Church.
[Source: Macungie Progress, Thursday, October 17, 1907, page 1. Submitted by Jerri.]
Irwin S. Benfield, 51, a World War veteran, of Topton, died in the U.S. Naval hospital, Philadelphia, where he was admitted a week ago. He had been ill since his discharge from the U.S. Army where he was a private, first class, in Headquarters Company, 312th Field Artillery. He was a native of District township and was a son of Frank N. and the late Mary (Seisholtz) Benfield. He was a member of Naomi Chapter 16, Disabled American Veterans, Philadelphia; Ray A. Master Post 217, American Legion of Topton, and Huff's Reformed church. Surviving are his father, his widow, Annie E. (Fox); a son, Charles, at home, and these brothers and sisters: Mrs. Eliza Shankweiler of Kutztown; Claude, Perkasie; Minnie, wife of Marvin Lesher, Reading; Mary Ann, wife of Henry Fox, Breinigsville R.D.; Frank S., Alburtis R.D.; Clarence, of Cetronia, and Walter, of Alburtis R.D. Funeral at his home Wednesday at 1:30. Further services held in Huff's church.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Wednesday, November 19, 1941, page 19. Submitted by Jerri.]
Irwin S. Benfield, 51, of 39 Smith St., Topton, a World War veteran, died Saturday in the U.S. Naval hospital at Philadelphia. He had been in ill health for some time and was admitted to the institution a week ago.
Mr. Benfield, a private, first class, saw action with headquarters company 12th Field Artillery. He was a member of Naomi Chapter 15, Disabled American Veterans, of Philadelphia and Ray A. Master Post 217, American Legion, of Topton. He was a member of Huffs Reformed Church.
Born in District township, Berks county, he was the son of Frank N. and the late Mary, nee Seisholtz, Benfield.
Surviving are his wife, Annie E., nee Fox; his father at Alburtis; a son, Charles, at home; and the following brothers and sisters: Mrs. Eliza Shankweiler of Kutztown, Claude of Perkasie, Minnie, wife of Marvin Letscher of Reading; Mary Anne, wife of Henry Fox of Breinigsville R. D.; Frank S. of Alburtis R.D., Mrs. Lillie Oberholtzer of Allentown; Elva, wife of Clarence Walberg of Cetronia; and Walter of Alburtis.
Rev. J. S. Blatt and Rev. W. E. Bond will officiate at short services Wednesday at 1:30 p.m. at his late home with continued services in Huffs church. Interment will be made in the cemetery adjoining the church. Friends may call Tuesday from 7 to 9 p.m.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Monday, November 17, 1941, p. 6. Submitted by Jerri.]
Katie M., daughter of Elam and Rosa Benfield, aged 17 years, 5 months and 2 days, of bally, died on Wednesday of typhoid fever after an illness of two days. She is survived by her parents and the following brothers and sisters: William, George, John, Warren, Charles, rosa, Anna and Matilda. The funeral will be held on Tuesday at 10 A.M. Services in the church of the Most Blessed Sacrament, Bally. Interment in the church cemetery.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Friday, March 7, 1924, page 15. Submitted by Jerri.]
Mrs. Lahana Lucinda Benfield, nee Rohrbach, wife of Abraham Benfield, Huff's Church, Berks county, died on Saturday morning, September 12th, at 3.45 a.m. of Bright's disease aged seventy-nine years, five months and eighteen days. She was sick eight weeks but was only bedfast for two weeks. There survive one brother and two sisters: John Rohrbach, of Allentown; Mrs. Sarah Carl, of Reading, and Mrs. John Fronheiser, of Bechtelsville, Berks county. The husband and six children survive: Sarah, wife of Reuben Moll, of Seisholtzville; Frank N. and Andora, wife of A. M. Fisher, of Huff's Church; Amanda, wife of John D. Reifsnyder, of Boyerstown; Ida, wife of Milton J. Gerhard, of Bechtelsville, and Abraham R., of Allentown. Thirty-three grandchildren and twenty-five great-grandchildren also survive. Four children preceded her in death. Funeral services will be held at her late home on Thursday at 9.30 a.m. Interment will be made at Huff's Union Cemetery, Rev. James N. Blatt officiating.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Saturday, October 22, 1898, p. 4. Submitted by Jerri.]
Mabel M. Benfield, 69, of Huffs Church, Barto R. 1, Berks County, died at home yesterday. Born in Hereford Township, Berks County, she was a daughter of the late Oscar and Mary (Gehris) Benfield. She was employed at the Superior Underwear Mills, Bechtelsville. She was a member of the United Church of Christ congregation, Huffs Union Church. Surviving are two brothers, Webster G., of Allentown, and Nevin N., of Boyertown, and two sisters, Florence M., wife of George Rohrbach of Macungie R. 1, and Mrs. Erma S. Rohrbach of Emmaus. Services will be at 2 p.m. Thursday in the Earl A. Trexler Funeral Home, 25 E. Weiss St., Topton. Viewing will be 7-8:30 p.m. Wednesday.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Monday, December 30, 1968, page 15. Submitted by Jerri.]
Marian Sarah, infant daughter of Abraham R. and Martha A., nee Reinert, Benfield, died at the home of the parents, No. 1535 Liberty street, yesterday, of marasmus, aged 3 months and 1 days. One other child survives to the sorrowing parents. Funeral services at the home of the parents on Friday evening at 7.30 o'clock. Funeral Saturday with services and interment at Huff's Church, Hereford Township, Berks county.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Wednesday, September 25, 1907, p. 5. Submitted by Jerri.]
Sick since last Sunday with inflammation of the bowels, Martha E., the young wife of Abraham R. Benfield, of No. 1535 Liberty street, succumbed to her ailment yesterday in her twenty-fifth year. Deceased was a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. August Reinert, and was born at Longswamp, Berks county. She was a member of the Reformed sing of Huff's Church. Besides her husband and parents, she is survived by one brother, Fred Reinert, Huff's Church, and these sisters: Mrs. Calvin Anthony, Allentown; Mrs. Claude Benfield and Miss Elsie Reinert, Huff's Church. Two children preceded her in death.
Death Notice (p. 3): Age at death = 24 years, 1 month, 3 days; Buried, Huff's Church cemetery
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Wednesday, December 4, 1907, p. 9. Submitted by Jerri.]
Mary L. (Gehris), wife of Oscar Benfield, died at her home in Huffs Church on Sunday, aged 67 years. She was a daughter of the late Mahlon and Elizabeth (Greiss) Gehris, and was ill several months. Surviving besides the husband are eight children, Mrs. Gertie Moll, Huffs Church; Grace, wife of Ammon Bechtel, Bechtelsville; Webster Benfield, Allentown; Nevin Benfield, Boyertown; Mabel Benfield, at home; Florence, wife of George Rohrbach, Old Zionsville; Erma, wife of Morgan Rohrbach, Emaus; Homer Benfield, Bechtelsville; one brother, Charles Gehris, East Greenville, and 16 grandchildren. Funeral Thursday at 1:30 p.m.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Wednesday, April 27, 1938, page 7. Submitted by Jerri.]
Oscar Benfield, a lifelong resident of Huffs Church, died at his home on Monday at the age of 75. Funeral services will be held at the home today at 1:30 p.m. with Reformed continued services and burial in Huffs Union church. Surviving are four daughters and three sons: Mabel, at home; Mrs. Ammon Bechtel, Bechtelsville; Mrs. George Rohrbach, Macungie R. 1; Mrs. Morgan Rohrbach, Zionsville; Webster, Allentown; Nevin, Boyertown; Homer, Eschbachs.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Friday, April 30, 1943, page 22. Submitted by Jerri.]
BenfieldRussell L., 20 years, 6 months and 20 days, 948 Court St., Allentown; in Belgium, Dec. 2, 1944; husband of Anna (Green) Benfield. Funeral 1:30 p.m. Saturday, Derr funeral home, 46 E. Susquehanna St. Interment, Huffs church cemetery.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Thursday, May 6, 1948, page 34. Submitted by Jerri.]
Samuel B. Benfield, a well known and highly respected citizen of emaus, died on Monday evening following an illness of complications. Mr. Benfield was a son of the late Henry and Sallie, nee Becker, Benfield, and was born on April 2nd, 1844, in Berks county. He was aged 77 years, 4 months and 15 days. He is survived by his wife, Catherine, nee Reidnauer, Benfield, one daughter, Mrs. William Bucher, of Emaus; three sons, Charles E., principal of the Jefferson school, of this city; Nathaniel, of Emaus, and Elias, of Reinhols; five grandchildren and one brother, Aaron, of Bechtelsville, also survive. Private funeral services will be held from his late home, 566 Jubilee street, on Friday afternoon at 2.30.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Wednesday, August 17, 1921, page 16. Submitted by Jerri.]
Seneca K. Benfield, who formerly carried on the milling business near Huff's Church, died on Friday morning at his home in Allentown. He was sick for some time with internal cancer. He brought his age to 48 years and is survived by his wife and two children, besides several sisters and brothers. Deceased was well and favorably known.
[Source: Macungie Progress, Thursday, April 2, 1908, page 1. Submitted by Jerri.]
Seneca R. Benfield, of No. 1449 Linden street, a retired miller, died yesterday at 2 o'clock after a year's illness with internal cancer, aged 47 years. The funeral will be held on Tuesday afternoon at 2 o'clock. Funeral services will be conducted at his late home by Rev. J. N. Blatt, of Shimersville. Interment will be made in Greenwood Cemetery.
Deceased was a son of Abraham and Lucinda Benfield, and was born at Bechtelsville, Berks county. He had been living in this city for the past seven years, having moved here from Huff's Church.
He is survived by his wife, Ellan A., two children, Mrs. Gustave Koehler and Clayotn Benfield, of this city; two brothers, Abraham, of Allentown, and Frank, Huff's Church, and four sisters, Mrs. Reuben Moll, Siesholtzville; Mrs. Allen Fisher, Huff's Church; Mrs. John Reysnider and Mrs. Milton Gearhart, of Bechtelsville. Deceased was a member of the Reformed wing of Huff's Church, Eschbach Council No. 1019, I.O.A. of Eschbach, and Algonquin Lodge, No. 47, O. of I.
Death notice (March 29, p. 3): Age at death = 47 years, 11 months, 27 days
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Saturday, March 28, 1908, p. 4. Submitted by Jerri.]
Victoria E. Benfield, 92, died July 1 in her Washington Township residence. Her husband, John E. Benfield, died Oct. 11, 2003. Born in Washington Township, she was a daughter of the late Frank and Emma A. (Bachman) Eline. Benfield was a member of Most Blessed Sacrament Roman Catholic Church, Bally. She is survived by four sisters: Margaret (Eline) Gehris, Pennsburg, Montgomery County; Dorothy (Eline) Kemp, Barto; Mary C. (Eline) Feather, New Berlinville; and Arlene A. (Eline) Wolf, Bechtelsville. There are also two granddaughters, two great-grandchildren, two great-great-grandchildren and two stepgreat-great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by a daughter, Marian E. (Benfield) Linsenbigler, on Aug. 31, 2003. Services will be Thursday at 11 a.m. in Linwood W. Ott Funeral Home Inc., Boyertown. Burial will be in Most Blessed Sacrament Church Cemetery, Bally.
[Source: Reading Eagle, July 3, 2005. Submitted by: Nancy McD.]
A memorial Mass was held for William F. Benfield Sr., 68, of County Line Road in Washington Township, who died April 18 in Pottstown Memorial Medical Center. He was the husband of Gertrude A. (Miller) Benfield. Born in Bally, he retired from Bethlehem Steel Co. in 1984 and later worked as a certified welding inspector for the Robert W. Hunt Co. in Pittsburgh. He served in the Army from 1957 until 1959. Benfield was a member of Most Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church in Bally, the Friendship Hook and Ladder Fire Co. of Boyertown, the Goodwill Fire Co. of Bally and the American Welding Society. Surviving are three sons, David P. Benfield of Boyertown, and William F. Benfield Jr. and John Benfield, both of Bechtelsville; daughters, Julie A. Benfield of Bechtelsville, Joan M. Batch of Barto and Mariam Sivco of Bally; and four grandsons. Contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, in care of Robert Moses, National Penn Bank, 1830 E. High St., Pottstown, PA 19464. Burial was private. The arrangements were handled by the Catagnus Funeral Home, Boyertown.
[Source: Boyertown Area Times, April 24, 2003. Submitted by: Nancy McD.]
William Bennecoff Dies in Greenwich
Kutztown, Aug. 10 (special).--William Bennecoff died yesterday at 8:30 a.m. at his home at Krumsville, Greenwich township, of dropsy, aged 63 years, 5 months and 2 days. Mr. Bennecoff was in ill health for several months. He conducted a farm for several years, but later was engaged in the carpet weaving business at his home. He was a member of the Grimville Church. His widow survives, and also a brother and several sisters. Funeral, Monday morning, Aug. 14. Services will be held in the Grimville Church and interment made in the adjoining cemetery. Rev. A.J. Brumbach and Rev. J.O. Schlenker will officiate. Undertaker William Fritz, Kutztown.
[Source: Reading Eagle, Thursday, August 10, 1916. Submitted by Nancy.]
Memorial services were held in the Ludwick Funeral Home, Kutztown, for Helen L. Benner, Stimmel Alley, Kutztown, who died of natural causes Nov. 14 in the Lehigh Valley Hospice Unit, Allentown, where she had been a patient two days. Inurnment was in Lyons Cemetery. She was the wife of Robert K. Benner. Born in West Reading, she was a daughter of the late George W. and Edna F. (Scheidt) Kendall. Until retiring in 1999, she was employed as office manager by Waddell & Reed, in Allentown and Tallahassee, Fla. She was previously employed as a sewing machine operator by Deisher Knitting Mill, Kutztown, in the 1960's and 1970's. Also surviving is a daughter, Donna M. Lambert, Mertztown, and a brother, Robert S. Kendall, Kutztown.
[Source: Kutztown Area Patriot, November 21, 2002. Submitted by: Nancy McD.]
Marcus L. Benner, 56, of Kemp St., Lyons, died unexpectedly at home yesterday of a heart attack. He was the husband of the former Margaret L. Grim. Born in Vera Cruz, he was a son of the late Charles C. and S. Matilda (Badman) Benner. He was a maintenance foreman for the Reading Railroad. He was a member of St. Paul's Lutheran Church, Lyons. Surviving with his widow are a son, Robert, at home, and a brother Henry, of Emmaus. Services will be at 10:30 a.m. Saturday in the Schofer Funeral Home, 107 N. Main St., Topton. Viewing will be 7-8:30 p.m. Friday followed by Masonic services at 8:30 p.m.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Wednesday, August 7, 1968, page 10. Submitted by Jerri.]
Private services were held for Diana M. Bennethum, 50, of Warwick Court, Exeter Township, who died in her vacation home in Ocean City, N.J., on December 29. She was the wife of George F. Bennethum. Born in Champagne, Ill., she had been employed for 33 years as a drafting engineer by Verizon, Reading, before retiring. Bennethum is also survived by two stepdaughters, Caitlin and Brigitte Bennethum, Reading. Other survivors include two brothers and three sisters and two step-grandchildren. The Godfrey Funeral Home Inc., Ocean City, N.J., was in charge of the arrangements.
[Source: Southern Berks News, January 8, 2003. Submitted by: Nancy McD.]
Wernersville, Feb. 4 -- Lizzie (Engle), 64, widow of Frank Bennethum died yesterday at Lanny's Cottage, near here. She was a daughter of the late John and Barbara Putt Engle. Surviving are two sons: Harold and Lloyd, Newmanstown; a daughter, Margaret, wife of George Horn, Lebanon; 11 grandchildren, and two sisters: Elvina, wife of Benjamin Gromis, Robesonia R.D., and Leah, wife of William Deppen, Reading. Services at 2 p.m. in the Lamm & Witman Funeral Home, this borough, the Rev. Elmer L. Leisey officiating. Burial in St. Daniel's Cemetery, Robesonia.
[Source: Reading Eagle, Friday, February 4, 1949. Submitted by Nancy.]
In Newmanstown, on the 5th, Robert N. Bennethum, son of Monroe and the late Amanda (Allen) Bennethum, aged 32 years. Relatives and friends are invited to attend the funeral, without further notice, from his late residence, at Newmanstown, on Saturday afternoon at 2 oclock, at the house. Services in the Evangelical Church, Newmanstown. Interment in Elias cemetery, Newmanstown.
[Source: Reading Eagle, March 7, 1924. Submitted by: Submitted by Michelle.]
Bennethum - In Heidelberg, on May 2d, Sarah Anna, wife of John Bennethum and daughter of Daniel and Maria (Leininger) Kunius, aged 33 years and 22 days.
[Source: Berks and Schuylkill Journal, June 1, 1878. Submitted by Kathy.]
Charles F. Bennett, postal clerk at Mertztown for 25 years before his retirement three years ago, died yesterday in his home at Mertztown R. 1. He was 70. Born in Longswamp Township, Bennett was a son of the late John and Ellen (Fegely) Bennett. A member of St. Paul's United Church of Christ, Mertztown, Bennett was honored last November for serving as an officer or deacon for 51 years. He was named an elder in 1949. He was an Army veteran of World War I. Surviving are his widow Helen M. (Long) Bennett; a daughter Eleanor, wife of Charles W. Fenstermaker, at home; a brother, William F., of Northampton; two grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Services will be at 11 a.m. Saturday in St. Paul's Church, with viewing 7-8:30 p.m. Friday in the Schmoyer Funeral Home, Breinigsville.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Wednesday, April 13, 1966, page 47. Submitted by Jerri.]
Mrs. Ellen E. Bennett, widow of John R. Bennett, died Saturday night at her home in Farmington along Mertztown R. 1, after an illness of several years. Mrs. Bennett, who was 84, was born in Upper Macungie township, a daughter of the late Willoughby and Isabella, nee Dankel, Fegley, and for many years had been a dressmaker. She was a member of the Reformed wing of the Mertztown church and is survived by two sons, William F. Bennett of Northampton, and Charles F. Bennett, with whom she made her home. The funeral will be held from the Schmoyer Funeral home, Breinigsville, Thursday at 1:30 p.m., with further services in the Mertztown church. Interment will be in the church cemetery.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Monday, October 11, 1943, page 6. Submitted by Jerri.]
Mrs. Helen M. Bennett, 72, of Mertztown R. 1, died yesterday at her home. She was the widow of Charles Bennett. Born in Longswamp Township, Berks County, she was a daughter of the late Charles and Emma (Long) Long. She was a retired school teacher, a 1920 graduate of Kutztown Normal school. She had taught in school districts in Berks and Lehigh counties for 23 years. She was a member of St. Paul's United Church of Christ, Mertztown, where she was a past president of the auxiliary. Surviving are a daughter Eleanor E., wife of Charles W. Fenstermaker, with whom she resided; a sister, Mrs. Eva Geisinger, of Mertztown; two grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren. Services will be at 2 p.m. Friday in St. Paul's Church. Calling hours will be 7-8:30 p.m. Thursday in the Schmoyer Funeral Home, Breinigsville.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Tuesday, February 25, 1969, page 21. Submitted by Jerri.]
Benney--At St. Peters, Chester County, on the 25th inst., John Benney, aged 59 years, 10 months and 2 days. Relatives and friends are invited to attend the funeral, without further notice, from his late residence, at St. Peters, on Wednesday at 2:30 p.m., Standard Time. Friends may call Tuesday evening. Services in St. Peter's Reformed Church. Interment in adjoining cemetery.
[Source: Reading Eagle, July 28, 1931. Submitted by: Nancy.]
Obituary for Carl Benseman of Hamburg, Berks, PA [in German] [Kindly translated by Barbara Huber.] Transcription: Starb am 2ten Dieses, zu Hamburg, an der Auszehrung, Carl Benseman, frherer Herausgeber der Hamburger Schnellpost, im Alter von 30 Jahren, 6 Monaten und 24 Tagen.
Translation: "Died - On the 2nd of this [2 Jul 1855], to Hamburg, of consumption, Carl Benseman, former editor of the "Hamburg Quick Post," in at the age of 30 years, 6 months and 24 days."
[Source: Reading Adler, Reading, PA, Tuesday July 17, 1855, page 2. Submitted by: Kim.]
Obituary for Franklin F. Benseman of Minersville, Schuylkill County, PA [in German] [Kindly translated by Barbara Huber.] Transcription: Starb. Benseman in Minersville, Schuylkill County, am 22. April, Franklin F. Benseman, im Alter von 54 Jahren, 10 Monaten und 10 Tagen. Der Verstorbene war ein Sohn von Mrs. Mary M. Benseman, von Hamburg, und ein Bruder bes verstorbenen Charles Benseman, vormaliger Herausgeber der Hamburger Schnellpost. Er hinterlt eine betrbte Witwe mit 9 Kindern, einen Verlust zu betrauern.
Translation: "Died. Benseman - in Minersville, Schuylkill County, on 22 April, Franklin F. Benseman, at the age of 54 years, 10 months and 10 days. The deceased was a son of Mrs. Mary M. Benseman, of Hamburg, and a brother better late Charles Benseman, former editor of the Hamburg "Express Mail." He leaves behind a sorrowful widow with 9 children to mourn the loss."
[Source: Reading Adler, Reading, PA, Tuesday May 21, 1867, page 2, col. 5. Submitted by: Kim.]
Obituary for Mary M. Benseman of Hamburg, PA [in German] [Kindly translated by Barbara Huber.] Transcription: Starb. Benseman in Hamburg, am 9.Mai, an Alterschwche, Mary M. Benseman, hinterlassene Wittwer des lngst verstorbenen Dr. Herman Benseman, in Alter von 80 Jahren, 9 Monaten und 8 Tagen.
Translation: "Died. Benseman - in Hamburg, on May 9, of old age, Mary M. Benseman, bequeathed widow of long-deceased Dr. Herman Benseman, at the age of 80 years, 9 months and 8 days."
[Source: Reading Adler, Reading, PA, Tuesday May 7, 1867, page 2, col. 5. Submitted by: Kim.]
Catharine R. "Kit" Bensinger, 98, retired co-owner of a city bingo hall, died July 17 at 4:15 p.m. in Mifflin Center, Cumru Township, where she had been a resident since Dec. 16, 2002. She was a former West Reading resident. Her husband, Francis C. Bensinger, died April 16, 1974. Born in Reading, she was a daughter of the late Bernard W. and Anna R. (Angstadt) Rudolph. Bensinger, along with her husband, co-owned and operated Kit and Bud's Bingo, Reading, for 35 years until her retirement. She was a member of Holy Spirit Lutheran Church, Reading. Bensinger was past president of the ladies auxiliary of Travelers Protection Association and the West Reading Senior Citizens Association. She is survived by a son, Carroll R., West Reading; and three daughters: Jacqueline F. (Bensinger) Guiles, Wyomissing; and Marilyn F. (Bensinger) Hafer and Creeda D. (Bensinger) Kurowski, both of Shillington. There are also 11 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. Services will be Thursday at 11 a.m. in Edward J. Kuhn Funeral Home Inc., West Reading. Burial will be in Charles Evans Cemetery.
[Source: Reading Eagle, July 19, 2005. Submitted by: Nancy McD.]
Margaret E. Bensinger, 82, formerly of Robesonia, died Jan. 17 in Berks Heim, where she had resided since August 1994. Her husband, Charles H. Bensinger, died Aug. 26, 1998. Born in Womelsdorf, she was a daughter of the late John and Mary (West) Gruber. Bensinger was employed for 25 years as a sewing machine operator by the Gloray Knitting Mill, Robesonia, retiring in 1977. She was a member of St. Paul's United Church of Christ, Robesonia. Surviving are a son, David C., Wyomissing; and a daughter, Kathleen L. (Bensinger) Wealand, St. Petersburg, Fla. Other survivors include a sister, Irene (Gruber) Miller, Womelsdorf; a grandson and two step-great-grandchildren. Services will be Tuesday at 10:30 a.m. in Lamm & Witman Funeral Home Inc., Wernersville. Burial will be in Heidelberg Cemetery, Heidelberg Township.
[Source: Reading Eagle, January 18, 2002. Submitted by: Betsy.]
On the 10th inst., in this city, Howard L. Benson, in the 26th year of his age.
[Source: Reading Eagle, February 12, 1868. Submitted by Nancy.]
Mary Ann Benton, 55, of Quakertown, died June 10, 2003 in St. Lukes Quakertown Hospital. She was the wife of Michael Benton. They were married 26 years last October. Born in Altoona, she was the daughter of Ethel (Schirf) Vukmanovich and the late Joseph Vukmanovich. She was last employed as an instructional aide for Trumbauersville Elementary School in Trumbauersville. She was a member of St. Isidores Catholic Church in Quakertown. In addition to her husband and mother, she is survived by six sons, Joseph, Robert, Michael, Paul, Mark, and Andrew, all of Quakertown; one daughter, Margaret of Quakertown; two sisters, Ethel Kiminski of Swarthmore, and Margaret Davison of Bernsville, Minn; one grandson. Services were held June 14. Memorial contributions can be made to St. Isidores Catholic Church, 531 W. Broad St., Quakertown, PA 18951. Arrangements: C.R. Strunk Funeral Home Inc., 821 W. Broad St., Quakertown, PA 18951.
[Source: Quakertown Free Press, June 19, 2003. Submitted by: Nancy McD.]
During the severe thunder storm of Friday morning between 4 and 5 o'clock the house of John Bentzel, in Alsace township, Berks Co., only a short distance east of Reading, was struck by lightning, and Bentzel instantly killed. He and his wife were in bed when the storm arose, but Mrs. Bentzel, becoming alarmed at the sharp crashes of thunder, arose and went down stairs, her husband remaining in bed asleep. Shortly afterward the lightning struck the gable end of the house, passed to the bedroom, and striking the headboard of the bed traversed the body of Mr. Bentzel, leaving a black mark upon the skin. The bed was set on fire and was in flames when Mrs. Bentzel returned to the room. She screamed and tried to arouse her husband but failed. With the assistance of her children, she extinguished the flames by carrying water from a spring. Mrs. Bentzel was blistered by the burning bed clothing. A physician was sent for, but all efforts to revive Mr. Bentzel were unavailing.
[Source: Allentown Democrat, Wednesday, May 20, 1896, page 2. Submitted by Jerri.]
On the 17th ult., in Colebrookdale, Charles, son of Frederick and Rosina Benz, aged 7 years and 2 months.
[Source: Berks and Schuylkill Journal [aka Reading Journal], Saturday, February 6, 1864. Submitted by: Nancy.]
John Benzel, who owns and lives upon a small farm of 25 acres of Lower Alsace, Berks County, one-half mile from Gechter's Hotel and three miles from Friendensburg, was struck by lightning and killed between 1 and 4 o'clock yesterday morning. He and his wife were in bed when the storm arose, but Mrs. Benzel as is the custom of many women, arose and went downstairs, her husband remained.
The lightning struck the gable end of the house, passed to the bedroom, struck the head board of the bed and entered the head of Mr. Benzel and passed down and through the body, leaving a black seared mark. The bed instantly was on fire and it was all in flames when Mrs. Benzel returned to the room. She screamed out at the terrible sight, tried to arouse her husband, but failed and with the assistance of the children extinguished the flames by carrying water from a spring 135 feet away. Mr. Benzel was blistered and some of the bed clothing consumed.
Dr. William H. Hertzog, of Friedensburg, was at once sent for, but his assistance was no use. The wife thought her husband had only been stunned, but he had evidently been instantly killed as the charge must have been torture.
Deceased was a native of Germany, coming to this country when still a young man. A wife and a number of children survive.
A neighbor of Mr. Benzel's says that the family were awakened by the storm and all had gone down stairs but Mr. Benzel. After the bolt had struck the house, one of the daughters remarked that father had not come down yet. Mrs. Benzel then went up stairs and was horrified to see the body of her husband partly dressed laying across the bed.
The bolt had struck the man while he was up and dressing on the neck and passed through his body. He then fell forward on to the bed. A red spot was on one side of his neck caused by the lightning, where it struck him.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Saturday, May 16, 1896. Submitted by Jerri.]
Obituary for Dr. Herman Benzeman of Hamburg, Berks, PA [in German] [Kindly translated by Barbara Huber.] Transcription: Un demselben Tage zu Hamburg, Berks Counth, Dr. Herman Benzeman, an einem Gewachs am Urm, in seinen besten Jahren. Er hinterlasst eine tiefgebengte Wittwe und funf unmundige Kinder, um sein fruhes Hinscheiden zu beweinen.
Translation: "On this day in Hamburg, Berks County, Dr. Herman Benzeman died of a tumor in the arm, in his best years. He leaves behind a sorrowful widow and five minor children, and they mourn his premature death."
[Source: Welt Bothe, Pennsylvania, March 17, 1819, p.3, col. 2. Submitted by: Kim.]
Berchert--In Exeter, March 3, Willoughby, son of Stephen L. and Sarah Ann Bechert [sic], aged 5 months and 19 days.
[Source: Reading Eagle, March 22, 1869. Submitted by: Nancy.]
[Source: The Allentown Morning Call, Allentown, PA, Monday, April 6, 1931, page 7. Submitted by Jerri.]
Llewellyn Berg, 75-year-old resident of Kutztown, died Tuesday night at 11.30 o'clock at his home at College Hill, Kutztown, from a complication of ailments. His death came but four weeks following that of his wife, Elmira J., nee Wiltrout. Mr. Berg was a member of St. John's Reformed church and of the P.O.S. of A., of Kutztown. Surviving him are two daughters, Jennie, wife of Charles Ritz, of Lyon Station, and Miss Eva Berg, of Camden, N.J.; three sons, Harry and Elmer, at home, and Paul, of this city; six grandchildren and a sister, Mrs. Amanda Wanner, of Kutztown. The funeral will be held Saturday morning with services in the Gonser Memorial chapel at Kutztown at 10 o'clock, standard time, Rev. W. L. Meckstroth officiating. Interment will be made in the Fairview cemetery, Kutztown. Friends may call Friday night, 7 to 9 o'clock.
[Source: The Allentown Morning Call, Allentown, PA, Thursday, May 7,1931, page 7. Submitted by Jerri.]
Paul A. Berg, of Fleetwood R. 2, died yesterday morning in his home after a brief illness. He was 59. Berg had been employed the last five years as a salesman for Riggs Mobile Homes, Kutztown R. 2. He was a husband of the former Esther Nester.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Wednesday, January 22, 1969, page 18. Submitted by Jerri.]
Services were held for John T. Bergeman III, 93, of Woods Lane, Boyertown, who died June 10 in Pottstown Memorial Medical Center. He was the widower of Ruth S. (Spicher) Bergeman. Bergeman was a paint shop supervisor for Doehler-Jarvis Co. of Stowe for 30 years, retiring in 1976. He was a member of the First Church of the Brethren of Pottstown. He was also a member of the Doehler-Jarvis Co. bowling league. Bergeman is survived by four sons, John T. Bergeman IV of Emerald, Pa., Jesse C. Bergeman of Miami, Elwood G. Bergeman of Hereford and Charles A. Bergeman of Boyertown; four daughters, Joan Elizabeth Kaminski, Reading, Ruth Borowy of Bechtelsville, Joyce I. Bergeman of Boyertown and Dorothy N. Soke of Reading. Also, two brothers, two sisters; 30 grandchildren; 35 great-grandchildren; and three great-great-grandchildren. Burial was in East Coventry Mennonite Cemetery. The Schumacher & Benner Funeral Home, Pottstown, handled the arrangements.
[Source: Boyertown Area Times, June 19, 2003. Submitted by: Nancy McD.]
Berger - In Bethel, on April 24th, Anna Barbara, wife of William Berger, and daughter of the deceased David Zerby, of Robeson tp., aged 78 years 8 months and 8 days.
[Source: Berks and Schuylkill Journal, May 25, 1878. Submitted by Kathy.]
Berger - On March 7th, Annie Rebecca, daughter of Levi J. and Rebecca Berger, aged 2 years, 10 months and 29 days.
[Source: Berks and Schuylkill Journal, April 8, 1876. Submitted by Kathy.]
Strausstown Man Dies In Home After Stroke
Strausstown, May 20 - Benjamin S. Berger died this morning at his home in this borough shortly after suffering a stroke of heart trouble. He was 68. Mr. Berger had been to the Charles Henne barber shop, across the street from his home, and suffered the fatal stroke a few minutes after returning. He was a native of Upper Tulpehocken township, a son of the late Emanuel and Christine (Sonday) Berger, and was employed at the Confer & Smith foundry, in Hamburg, for many years. He was well known throughout the territory from Hamburg to this borough, having for a long time conveyed the Reading Eagle bundles from Hamburg to the distribution centers. He was a member of the Reformed congregation of Zion's Union Church, this place; Camp 664 P. O. S. of A. this borough, the Hamburg I. O. O. F. Lodge and Charlotte Rebekah Lodge.
Surviving are his widow, Mary J. (Pottieger) Berger; four children, Daniel Berger, Reading,; Maude, wife of Claude Strauss, at home; Samuel Berger, West Lawn, and Albert Berger, Shillington; six grand-children, one great-grandchild; three brothers, George Berger, this place; Henry and Amos Berger, Bernville.
Funeral on Tuesday at 1:30 p. m. standard time, from the home. Further services in Zion's Union Church here, the Rev. F. W. Ruth and the Rev. Dr. W. A. Dries officiating. Interment in the adjoining cemetery, in charge of Funeral Director Charles E. Schucker.
[Source: Reading Eagle, May 20, 1939. Submitted by: Kathy.]
In Upper Tulpehocken, on the 27th June, Catharine, wife of Daniel Berger, and daughter of Yost Hiester, in the 34th year of her age.
[Source: Berks and Schuylkill Journal, July 10, 1858. Submitted by Kathy.]
Mrs. Christina Berger dies in Upper Tulpehocken
Strausstown, Nov. 19 (Special), - Christina (nee Sunday), widow of Emanuel Berger, died Monday forenoon of cancer at the home of her son-in-law, Samuel Feick, of Upper Tulpehocken, with whom she resided the last few months. Her age was 71 years, 5 months and 10 days. These children remain: George S. Berger, of Upper Tulpehocken; Mrs. Jerome Rutter, Upper Tulpehocken; Benjamin Berger, Strausstown; Henry Berger, Bernville; Amos Berger, Bernville, and Mrs Samuel Feick. The surviving brothers and sisters are: Benjamin and Moses, of Hamburg, and Mrs. Susan Fichthorn, of Tilden. Deceased had been ill two months, and bedfast one week. She was a member of the Lutheran congregation of Zion's (Blue Mountain) Church, at this place. Funeral from the residence of her son-in-law, Mr. Feick, Saturday forenoon, Nov. 23, at 9.30 o'clock at the house. Rev. O. E. Pflueger, of Womelsdorf, will officiate. Funeral director, C. V. Reber.
[Source: Reading Eagle, November 19, 1912. Submitted by: Kathy.]
Dorothy A. Berger, 86, died May 6 in Evangelical Congregational Church Village-Albright Campus, Myerstown, Lebanon County, where she had been a resident. She had been predeceased by her husband, Levi W. Berger. Born in Schuylkill County, she was a daughter of the late William and Maggie (Zerbe) Schneck. Berger was a member of Zion United Methodist Church, Myerstown. She is survived by two sons, Willard, Myerstown, and Kenneth, Robesonia; and two daughters, Sadie M. (Berger) Cox, Richland, Lebanon County, and Nancy A. (Berger) High, Myerstown. Other survivors include a sister, Bertha (Schneck) McCarthy, Bernville; and two brothers, Carl Schneck, Rehrersburg, and Curtis Schneck, Myerstown. There are also 13 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by a daughter, Anna Marie Berger. Services will be Tuesday at 10 a.m. in Zion UM Church. Burial will be in St. Peter's Lutheran Church Cemetery, Pine Grove, Schuylkill County. The Strauss-Kreamer & Lum Funeral Home, Jonestown, Lebanon County, is in charge of arrangements.
[Source: Reading Eagle, Saturday, May 7, 2005. Submitted by Nancy.]
Berger - In Penn, November 28th, Elizabeth Berger, widow of Solomon Berger, and daughter of Jacob and Barbara Potteiger, aged 69 years, 1 month and 25 days.
[Source: Berks and Schuylkill Journal, December 14, 1872. Submitted by Kathy.]
Strausstown
Sudden Death of Emanuel Berger.
Jan. 24. - Emanuel Berger died very suddenly yesterday afternoon at 5 o'clock from heart failure, aged 70 years, 11 months and 23 days. He suffered with diabetes for five years, but was up and about until a short time before death. About one week ago he contracted a heavy cold which weakened him and superinduced heart failure. His condition was not considered serious until Wednesday afternoon when Dr. O. B. Herbein was summoned, but the patient had passed away before the doctor's arrival. Deceased is survived by his widow, Christina (nee Sunday) and the following children: George and Benjamin, of Upper Tulpehocken; Kate, wife of J. B. Rutter, of Pottsville; Henry and Amos, of Bernville, and Sallie, wife of Samuel Feick, of Shartlesville. Deceased was a member of Zion's Reformed Church, of Strausstown, a life-long Democrat, and a highly respected citizen.
[Source: Reading Eagle, January 24, 1907. Submitted by: Kathy.]
George Berger, Sr. a respected citizen of this township, died after a lingering illness. He will be buried Thursday forenoon, August 28th, in the cemetery of Zion's Church, this place.
[Source: Reading Eagle, Thursday, August 28, 1890, p. 3. Submitted by: Bill.]
Services were held in the Leibensperger Funeral Home, Hamburg, for Helen M. Berger, 85, formerly of Shartlesville, who died April 9 in the Laurel Center Genesis Elder Care, Tilden Township, where she had resided since Jan. 1. Burial was in Strausstown Union Cemetery. Born in Upper Bern Township, she was a daughter of the late Emmanuel M. and Daisy M. (Adams) Berger. Until retiring, she was employed by the Bernville Manufacturing Co., for 10 years. She was previously employed by Burkey Underwear Co., Hamburg; the Hamburg Diner; and Haag's Hotel, Shartlesville. Berger was a member of Zion's (Blue Mountain) United Church of Christ, Strausstown. Surviving are a sister, Lillian I. (Berger) Bausher, a resident at the Laurel Center.
[Source: Hamburg Area Item, April 16, 2003. Submitted by: Nancy McD.]
Berger - In Spring, on March 4th, Henry A. Berger, in the 44th year of his age.
[Source: Berks and Schuylkill Journal, March 9, 1878. Submitted by Kathy.]
Howard F. Berger, veteran Allentown and Reading Traction Company motorman, died Tuesday morning at 3:15 o'clock at his home, 1 Maple street, Kutztown, following an illness from complications, aged 54 years, 1 month and 18 days. Mr. Berger was a native of Berks county and was a son of the late Peter Berger and his wife, Sarah Hausman Berger. He had resided in Kutztown for many years and was an employee on the Kutztown and Reading division of the Allentown and Reading Traction Company for a long time. Fraternally he was a member of the Jr. O.U.A.M., and Fraternal Order of Eagles, of Kutztown. He is survived by his widow, Katie, nee Kruse, Berger; one daughter, Mrs. Frederick Fegely, of Spinnerstown; two grandchildren; and four brothers, Allen, of Bethlehem; Clinton, of Norristown; and Charles and Benjamin, of Allentown. The funeral will be held from his late home on Friday afternoon at 2 o'clock. Private services will be conducted at the house. Interment will be made in Hope cemetery, Kutztown.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Wednesday, November 13, 1929, page 7. Submitted by Jerri.]
Berger - In Upper Bern, on May 4th, James William, son of Isaac and Emma Rebecca (Stiely) Berger, aged 9 years, 2 months and 16 days
[Source: Berks and Schuylkill Journal, June 1, 1878. Submitted by Kathy.]
Berger - In Rehrersburg, March 13th, John George Berger, aged 79 years.
[Source: Berks and Schuylkill Journal, April 12, 1873. Submitted by Kathy.]
Berger - in Philadelphia, February 27th, Ida Elizabeth, daughter of John R. and Margaret Berger, aged 12 years, 5 months and 21 days. Her remains were taken to Bernville for interment.
[Source: Berks and Schuylkill Journal, March 18, 1871. Submitted by Kathy.]
Berger - In Upper Bern, June 24th, James Joseph, son of Daniel and Elizabeth Berger, aged 16 years, 7 months and 23 days.
[Source: Berks and Schuylkill Journal, July 25, 1874. Submitted by Kathy.]
Berger - In Upper Bern, on April 17th, John, son of John and Catharine (Kaufman) Berger, aged 80 years and 1 day. He was twice married, the first time to Magdalena Rentschler, and the second time to Magdalena Miller. He leaves 4 children, 30 grandchildren, and 9 great grand children. He lived in widowhood over 11 years.
[Source: Berks and Schuylkill Journal, May 11, 1878. Submitted by Kathy.]
Berger - In Penn, on March 28th, John Franklin, son of Adam and Elizabeth Berger, aged 19 years, 3 months 10 days.
[Source: Berks and Schuylkill Journal, April 13, 1878. Submitted by Kathy.]
Private services were held for Lillian A. Berger, formerly of Maxatawny Township. Berger died Feb. 20 in Berks Heim, where she had been a resident. Burial was private in Fairview Cemetery, Kutztown. She was predeceased by her husband, Raymond P. Berger, in 1998. Born in Richmond Township, she was a daughter of the late A. Howard and Alice E. (Hottenstein) Heffner. Berger was a graduate of the Bryland Institute of Beauty, Reading. She had been self-employed as an area hairdresser for 10 years. Berger was the former operator of the Village Squire Antique Shop, Kutztown. She had worked in the gift shop of the Glockenspiel Restaurant and for Kutz's Footwear, both of Kutztown. Berger was a member of St. John's United Church of Christ, Kutztown. Surviving is a son, Tyrone L., Camp Hill, Cumberland County. She is also survived by a brother, Herbert W. Heffner, Reading, and a sister, Lydema E. (Heffner) Heffleger, Endicott, N.Y. Ludwick Funeral Homes Inc., Kutztown, was in charge of arrangements.
[Source: Kutztown Area Patriot, March 2, 2005. Submitted by: Nancy McD.]
Berger - In Penn, Maria Anna Berger, daughter of Adam and Elizabeth (Hofer) Berger, aged 9 years 7 months 23 days.
[Source: Berks and Schuylkill Journal, April 27, 1878. Submitted by Kathy.]
Services were held in the Ludwick Funeral Home, Kutztown, for Norman V. Berger, Long Lane, Greenwich Township, who died Nov. 10 in Lehigh Valley Hospital. Burial was in New Bethel Zion Cemetery. He was the husband of Goldie M. (Derr) Berger. Born in Greenwich Township, he was a son of the late Victor S. and Mabel S. (Snyder) Berger. Until retiring in 1986, he had been a self-employed farmer for 44 years. He was a member of New Jerusalem Zion United Church of Christ, Lenhartsville, where he served as a former deacon and elder on the church consistory. He also served as superintendent of the Sunday School for 35 years. Since 1955, he was a board member of the New Bethel Zion Cemetery, Krumsville. Also surviving are three sons, Victor M. Berger, Dale N. Berger and Kevin L. Berger, all of Kutztown. There are also six grandchildren and a brother, Ethan M. Berger, Kutztown.
[Source: Kutztown Area Patriot, November 14, 2002. Submitted by: Nancy McD.]
Services were held for Paul L. Berger, 85, of East Meadowbrook Road, North Coventry Township, Chester County, who died in his residence on June 10. His wife, Grace L. (Hafer) Berger, died in 2000. Born in Alsace Township, Berger was employed for 34 years as a lab technician by Firestone Tire & Rubber Co., Pottstown, until his retirement. He was a member of St. Johns United Church of Christ, Pottstown. Berger was an Army veteran of World War II. He was a former cubmaster of Lower Pottsgrove Cub Scout Pack 207 and assistant leader of Kenilworth Boy Scout Troop 127. Berger was a past president of the Pottstown Chapter of the AARP. Surviving are two sons, Barry G., Pottstown, and David A., East Coventry Township, Chester County. Other survivors include a brother, three grandchildren and a great-granddaughter. Burial was in Pleasant View Cemetery, Spring Township. The arrangements were handled by the Catagnus Funeral Home Inc., Pottstown.
[Source: Boyertown Area Times, June 19, 2003. Submitted by: Nancy McD.]
Berger -- On September 16th Sarah Berger, wife of Augustus Berger, aged 42 years, 11 months and 11 days..
[Source: Berks and Schuylkill Journal, September 25, 1875. Submitted by: Nancy.]
Berger - In Penn tp., Solomon Berger, aged 70 years, 4 months and 29 days.
[Source: Berks and Schuylkill Journal, August 19, 1871. Submitted by Kathy.]
Stanley A. Berger, 90, of the Episcopal House, 50 N. Ninth St., Reading, died Monday at Phoebe Berks Health Care Center, Wernersville, where he had been a patient since Friday. Born in Auburn, he was a son of the late Andrew C. and Lillie Wildermuth Berger. He was an Army veteran of World War II. He was employed for 48 years by the Reading Co. at the Reading Terminal, Philadelphia, retiring as a car supervisor in 1974. He was a member of First United Church of Christ, Reading. Surviving are his wife, the former Laura M. Bailey; a sister, Joan Carey, Pottsville; a nephew. Whelan, Fleischmann & Schwartz Funeral Homes Inc., Reading, is in charge of arrangements.
[Source: Pottsville Republican, December 1, 1999. Submitted by: Nancy.]
Berger - Dec. 18th, of croup, Willie T., in his 3rd year, and Dec 19th, of diphtheria, Susan M., in her 10th year, son and daughter of William and Rebecca J. Berger.
[Source: Berks and Schuylkill Journal, December 29, 1877. Submitted by Kathy.]
[Source: Reading Eagle, August 25, 1914. Submitted by Deanne.]
Mrs. Elizabeth S. (Fronheiser) Bergey, wife of Jay A. Bergey, died unexpectedly Sunday morning at her residence along the Clayton Creamery-Huffs Church road, Barto R.D. She was 56. Mrs. Bergey collapsed and died immediately on the back porch of her home. She was on her way to church. She had been under doctor's care in recent weeks. Born in Hereford Township, Berks County, she was a daughter of Mrs. Susan (Leeser) Fronheiser, at home, and the late Albert Fronheiser. She was a member of the Lutheran wing of Huffs Union Church. Besides her mother and husband, she is survived by two sons, Paul, Red Hill; and Milton, U.S. Air Force in Germany; a daughter, Arlene, at home, and two sisters, Annie, wife of Arthur Clemmer, Bechtelsville; and Ruth, wife of Francis Witman, Bally. Short services will be at 1:30 p.m. Thursday in the home with services at 2 p.m. in Huffs Church.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Tuesday, May 31, 1955, page 13. Submitted by Jerri.]
Lillian M. Bergey, 98, of Quakertown, died Friday, Dec. 6, 2002 at LifeQuest Nursing Center, Quakertown. A viewing was held Dec. 10. Interment was in Old Goshenhoppen Cemetery, Woxall. She was the wife of the late Milton P. Bergey who died Sept. 1987. Born in Evansburg, Pa., she was the daughter of the late Estella Ruth. She was a life-long seamstress employed by various clothing manufacturers in Souderton and the Upper Perkiomen Valley. She lived in Souderton for over 70 years until her move to LifeQuest. She was a member of the Old Goshenhoppen UCC Church, Woxall. She is survived by: two sons, Kermit G. Bergey of Red Hill and Nevin Bergey of Souderton; eight grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by one son M. Lydell Bergey. Memorial contributions may be made to Old Goshenhoppen United Church of Christ, 2092 Church Road, Woxall, PA 18979. Arrangements: Monaghan Funeral Home, Inc., Quakertown.
[Source: Quakertown Free Press, December 12, 2002. Submitted by: Nancy McD.]
Sylvia G. Bergman, ex-TV personality. Sylvia Gladys Bergman, former local television personality, died April 9 in the Evangelical Congregational Church Retirement Village, Stone Ridge Campus, Myerstown, where she had resided since 1993. Bergman, 93, formerly of Wyomissing, was predeceased by her husband, Henry K. Bergman, on March 2, 1998. She hosted daily cooking television shows in Reading during the 1950s, appearing as "Penny Wise" on WHUM-TV Channel 61 and "Sylvania Sommers" on WEEU-TV channel 33. Born in Reading, she was a daughter of the late Brainerd L. and Lillian (Sesseman) Miller and stepdaughter of the late Edna (0'Brian) Miller. Bergman was employed as a home economist by PP&L in Lancaster County and was last employed as a family money-management counselor by Bank of Pennsylvania in Reading in the late 1960s. She was a member of Atonement Lutheran Church, Wyomissing. Bergman was a 1928 graduate of West Reading High School. She was past matron of Elizabeth Herr Chapter, Order of Eastern Star, Reading, in 1965-1966. Surviving is a son, H. Barry, Greenlawn, N.Y. Other survivors include two grandsons. Services will be Friday at 11 a.m. in Bean Funeral Homes Inc., Sinking Spring. Burial will be in Charles Evans Cemetery.
[Source: Reading Eagle, April 12, 2005. Submitted by: Nancy McD.]
Amanda (Hinterleiter), wife of Cornelius Berk, died at her home, Fleetwood R.D. 2, aged 80 years. She was a daughter of the late David and Abbie (Scherer) Hinterleiter. Surviving are her husband, two daughters, Nora, wife of Jacob DeLong, Kutztown R.D. 1, and Evada, wife of Augustus Stauffer, with whom she resided; 12 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Monday, November 11, 1935, page 7. Submitted by Jerri.]
Charles Berk, an aged resident of Vera Cruz, died of complications on Friday morning at 6.30 at the home of his son-in-law and daughter, Mr. and Mrs. George Bauder, Vera Cruz. He was aged 88 years, 7 months and 24 days. Mr. Berks was born in Greenwich township, Berks county, on August 15, 1837, a son of the late David and Hannah (Spohn) Berk. He was formerly a resident of Kutztown. There survive one daughter, Mrs. George Bauer; ten grandchildren, twenty-six great-grandchildren and two brothers, Nathan and David Berk, of Allentown. Funeral services will be held at 1 o'clock Wednesday afternoon at his late home in Vera Cruz, with regular services in St. John's Lutheran and Reformed church, Kutztown, and interment in Hope cemetery, Kutztown. Rev. Elmer Leinbach will officiate.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Saturday, April 10, 1926, page 7. Submitted by Jerri.]
Daniel P. Berk, landlord of the Steinsville Hotel, died of pneumonia, aged 58 years. He was a son of Daniel and Mary Berk, both deceased, and was a native of Albany township, Berks county. He followed farming until 17 years ago, when he became proprietor of the Albany Hotel, later moving to the Steinsville Hotel. He leaves his widow, Alice (nee Lutz), and the following children: Wilson, Lynnville; Bertha, wife of Anton Greenawalt, Kempton; Minnie, wife of Howard Bailey, Lynnport; Mahlon, Kempton; Hattie, wife of William Kistler, Wanamakers; and Norman, Steinsville. He was a brother of Mrs. Katie Neider and Mrs. Sarah Eltz, both of Philadelphia; Mrs. Mary Snyder, Shoemakersville; and James, Wichita, Kansas. Funeral Tuesday.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Saturday, May 5, 1917, page 13. Submitted by Jerri.]
Among the local survivors of Jeffrey B. Berk, who was found dead of self-inflicted wounds to his arm Dec. 2 in his Windsor Township residence, is a sister, Cynthia A. (Berks) Dissinger, Greenwich Township, and a brother, Bryan K. Berk, Richmond Township.
[Source: Boyertown Area Times, December 11, 2002. Submitted by: Nancy McD.]
Services were held in the Leibensperger Funeral Home, Hamburg, for Jeffrey B. Berk, 39, who was pronounced dead Dec. 2 of a self-inflicted wound to an arm in his Krick Lane, Windsor Township residence. A certificate of suicide has been issued by the Berks County Coroner's office. Burial was in St. Paul's (Smoke) Cemetery, Windsor Township. Born in West Reading, he was a son of Homer H. and Elizabeth A. (Bausher) Berk, Tilden Township. He was employed as a mechanic by Dick Wessner Excavating, Windsor Township, and was previously employed as a mechanic by East Penn Manufacturing, Lyons. Berk was a 1982 graduate of Hamburg Area High School. He was a stock-car driver and a former champion of street stock car racing at Susquehanna Speedway. He also was a go-cart racer at Shellhammer's Raceway, Mohrsville. Also surviving are two sons, Codie A. Berk and Austin L. Berk, both of Perry Township. Other survivors include a sister, Cynthia A. (Berk) Dissinger, Greenwich Township; and three brothers: Gary L. Berk and Michael R. Berk, both of Tilden Township; and Bryan K. Berk, Richmond Township.
[Source: Hamburg Area Item, December 11, 2002. Submitted by: Nancy McD.]
Jonathan F. Berk died at Kutztown on Friday. Besides the widow (nee Mary Sell), three brothers and two sisters survive, Nathaniel and David, of Allentown; Charles, of near Kutztown; Mrs. Michael Adams, of Kutztown, and Mrs. Anna Adams, of Richmond.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Wednesday, May 9, 1905, page 8. Submitted by Jerri.]
William H. Berk, 86, of 417 W. Market St., Orwigsburg, died Friday at home. Born in Kempton, Berks County, Aug. 15, 1914, he was a son of the late Walter and Rose Maury Berk. He was an Army veteran of World War II. He worked as a supervisor for 49 years at the former Onyx Blouse Factory, Orwigsburg and Pottsville, retiring in 1980. He was a member of Kimmel's Evangelical Free Church, Orwigsburg. He was preceded in death by three brothers, George, Clarence and Alvin; two sisters, Carrie Bailey and Leah Weitzel. He was the last member of his immediate family. Surviving are his wife, the former Kathryn A. Trout, to whom he was married for 64 years; a son, William W., Old Zionsville; two granddaughters, Kelly and Katie Berk. Services will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday from Hamilton Funeral Home Inc., Orwigsburg. The Rev. Donald Baker will officiate. Interment will be in Kimmel's Evangelical Free Church Cemetery, Orwigsburg.
[Source: Pottsville Republican, March 19, 2001. Submitted by: Nancy.]
Rev. A. G. BERKEY a minister of the Reformed church, died at Massillion, Ohio. He was born in Berks County in 1856 and was 43 years, 11 months and 10 days old. He was confirmed at the age of 18 by Rev. A. S. APPEL, at Zionsville, PA and prepared himself for college at Perkiomen Seminary. Afterwards, he went to Heidelberg College at Tiffin, Ohio, from which institution he graduated in June, 1884. He graduated from Heidelberg Theological Seminary in May, 1886 and preached for different charges in Ohio. At his funeral, addresses delivered by Rev. C. E. MILLER of Dayton and Rev. C. E. STONER. The remains were taken to Waynesburg, Ohio for interment.
[Source: Reading Eagle, November 2, 1899. Submitted by: Michele.]
An affliction in one family rarely heard of is that of John S. Berkey, at Bally, Berks county. On Saturday afternoon, he, his daughter Mary and son Sidney were all buried, having died of scarlet fever. Three hearses were in use at the funeral. Two of the five remaining children of the family are also down with the disease. The funeral was a large one. Interment was made at the Hereford Mennonite church. Rev. A. S> Shelly assisted by Revs. Mack and Kriebel officiated. Mr. Berkey was aged 40 years, 5 months and 26 days. He was an active worker in the Hereford Mennonite Sunday school wherein he taught a class and was chorister. He was also one of the first members of the Y.P.S.C.E. Society and always took an active interest in its work. He was a highly respected citizen and a machinist by trade. The son was seven years old and the daughter 2 years, 1 month and 13 days.
[Source: Macungie Progress, Thursday, February 2, 1893, page 4. Submitted by Jerri.]
Clarence R. Berkley, 88, of Orwigsburg Manor, 1000 Orwigsburg Manor Drive, Orwigsburg, formerly of 8 Railroad St., Schuylkill Haven, died Sunday at the manor, where he had lived nine years. Born in Birdsboro, Oct. 9, 1914, he was a son of the late Frederick and Bertha Keim Berkley. He was a freight handler for 41 years for the Reading Railroad, Reading. He was a member of St. John's United Church of Christ, Schuylkill Haven. His wife, the former Dorothy Dohner, died in May 2002. Surviving are a daughter, Nancy Weitzel, Muhlenberg Township, Berks County; a stepson, John Dohner, Schuylkill Haven; two stepdaughters, Marilyn Daniels, Muhlenberg Township, and JoAnn Koppenhaver, Schuylkill Haven; a brother, Lester, Birdsboro; two sisters, Mildred Dorres, Reading, and Rita Glass, Birdsboro. Services will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday from Auman Funeral Home, Reiffton. Interment will be in Forest Hill Memorial Park.
[Source: Pottsville Republican, March 3, 2003. Submitted by: Nancy.]
Among the local survivors of Randell E. Berkley Jr., Millcreek Township, Lebanon County, who died of natural causes Dec. 7 in Lancaster General Hospital, are a son, Ryan Berkley, and a daughter, Jennifer L. Berkley, both of Fleetwood.
[Source: Boyertown Area Times, December 11, 2002. Submitted by: Nancy McD.]
Services held for Randell Eugene Berkley Jr., 48, fiance of Linda A. (Redcay) Steely, of Rod and Gun Road, Newmanstown, Millcreek Township, who died December 7 in the Lancaster General Hospital, Lancaster, where he had been a patient. Born in Birdsboro, he was a self-employed antique dealer out of his home for the last 10 years. In addition to his fiancee, he is survived by two sons, Randell Eugene Berkley III of Birdsboro and Ryan Berkley of Fleetwood; two daughters, Candise M. B. Berkley of Birdsboro and Jennifer L. Berkley of Fleetwood; and three grandchildren. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a son and a daughter. Memorial donations may be made to the charity of the donor's choice. The Dengler Funeral Home, Birdsboro, handled the arrangements.
[Source: Southern Berks News, December 11, 2002. Submitted by: Nancy McD.]
After ailing for more than a year, Alvin Berky, aged 55 years, died of a complication at his home in Reading. Deceased was bedfast sixteen weeks. He was a native of Longswamp, but had been making his home in Reading for the last twenty-two years. He was a son of the late Carl and Carolina Berky. For many years he was employed by P. F. Eisenbrown's Sons & Co., as a stonecutter. He was a member of Zion's Reformed church and the Order of Owls, Reading. There remain his widow, Eliza A., two sons, Harry, Reading; John, Oakland, N.J.; one brother, William, Wescoesville; two sisters, Mrs. Lewis Reinert, Topton; Mrs. George Dry, Maxatawny, and four grandchildren.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Wednesday, June 6, 1923, page 7. Submitted by Jerri.]
William Berky, head farmer at the Lehigh county home, died unexpectedly yesterday afternoon at his home, Allentown R. 2, at the age of 72 years. Mr. Berky had been in failing health the past few years but had been in good spirits yesterday morning. He was prepared to sit down for his noon meal when he collapsed and died within a few minutes. He was born in Longswamp township, Berks county, a son of the late Charles and Carolina Frey Berky. Prior to accepting the position as head farmer at the county home, Mr. Berky had been a motorman for the Reading Traction Co., and at one time, had served as a dairyman on the late Gen. Harry C. Trexler's farms. Mr. Berky was a member of the Reformed congregation of the Trexlertown church and of Camp No. 467, POS of A of Trexlertown. He is survived by his wife, the former Eliza Sittler, and two sons, Nelson D., of Allentown R. 2, and Charles W., at home. He was the last of a family of eight children.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Saturday, December 11, 1948, page 10. Submitted by Jerri.]
Frances Bernardo, 88, formerly of Reading, died July 20, 2008, at 1:30 p.m. in the Lutheran Home at Topton, where she had been a resident since 2001.
She was predeceased by her husband of 62 years, Dominic H. Bernardo, on Jan. 8, 2002.
Born Feb. 11, 1920, in Reading, she was a daughter of the late Joseph and Josephine (Perrilli) Lombardo.
Frances was employed by Linette Candies as a packer for 15 years until retiring in 1982.
She was a member of Holy Rosary Roman Catholic Church, Reading.
Surviving are three children: Lydia (Bernardo) Filippini, Tempe, Ariz.; JoAnn (Bernardo) Brossman, Lower Heidelberg Township; and James F. Bernardo, Sinking Spring.
Other survivors include two brothers, Dominic Lombardo and Ronald Lombardo; and two sisters, Mary (Lombardo) Staron and Dolores (Lombardo) Seitzinger.
There are also seven grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Thursday at 9:30 a.m. in Holy Rosary Roman Catholic Church, 237 Franklin St. Burial will be in Gethsemane Cemetery, Muhlenberg Township. A viewing will be held Thursday 8 to 9 a.m. in Edward J. Kuhn Funeral Home Inc., 739 Penn Ave., West Reading.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Lutheran Home at Topton, 1 S. Home Ave., Topton, PA 19562. For online condolences, please visit www.kuhnfuneralhome.com.
[Source: Reading Eagle, c. July 20, 2008. Submitted by: Submitted by Tim.]
Florence Christine Bernd of College Hill, Kutztown, died suddenly Sunday afternoon at the home of Annie Metz, 41 S. 6th St., Quakertown, where she was residing. She was in her 61st year. Apparently in good health, Miss Bernd had attended church in the morning. For the past 23 years, she was a teacher at Quakertown and at the time of her death was in charge of the fifth grade in the Lincoln building. She was a daughter of the late Rev. Franklin K. and Harriet (nee Heilman) Bernd. Her father for many years active in the Lutheran ministry, was long pastor of the Lutheran congregation of Maxatawny church near Kutztown. Surviving are four sisters: Mrs. William J. Heilman, Allentown; Mrs. Edgar Krauss, College Hill, Kutztown; Mrs. Fred Deschamps, Forrest Grove; and Kathryn Bernd, Kutztown. Funeral services will be held Thursday at 1:30 p.m. from her late home on College Hill, Kutztown. Rev. Carlton Heckman of Kutztown and Rev. Nathan Yerger of Quakertown will officiate.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Tuesday, October 31, 1944, page 20. Submitted by Jerri.]
Berndt - In Tulpehocken, October 20th, George Berndt, son of Jacob D. and Maria Anna Berndt, and husband of Alabama Maidenford, aged 27 years, 9 months and 30 days.
[Source: Berks and Schuylkill Journal, November 11, 1876. Submitted by Kathy.]
Berndt, In Reading, November 26, 1895, Jesse H. Berndt, aged 66 years, 2 months and 9 days. Funeral from his late residence, 133 Reed Street, Reading, on Saturday afternoon at 2 o'clock, which relatives and friends are invited to attend without further notice.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Saturday, November 30, 1985. Submitted by Jerri.]
Charles Bernhard, an elderly single man, who resided with his brother-in-law, James Fegley, in Longswamp township, was thrown from a load of straw on Tuesday evening a week, and striking upon his head his neck was broken, resulting in instant death. The deceased assisted in threshing during the day, and a load of loose straw was being hauled from the barn, without being secured upon the wagon. Bernhard was on top of the load, and upon the wagon turning a corner, the loose straw commenced to slide and carried him with it. He was 60 years of age. He and Mrs. Fegley were twins.
[Source: Allentown Democrat, Wednesday, August 17, 1881, page 2. Submitted by Jerri.]
Bernhard- At Pricetown, Apr 5 1889 Henry H Bernhard, aged 59 years. Funeral will be held at Pricetown, Apr 10th, at 9:30 a.mInterment at Pricetown Cemetery.
[Source: Reading Eagle, April 10, 1889. Submitted by: Submitted by Michelle.]
Arthur W. Bernstein, 81, of 242 N. Silk St., Allentown, died Thursday in his home. He was the husband of Annie T. (Stern) Bernstein. He was a member of Christ Lutheran Church, Dryville. Born in Reading, he was a son of the late Edgar and Catherine (Quillman) Bernstein. Surviving besides his widow are two daughters, Verna R., wife of Harold Webb of Topton, and Virginia E., wife of Miles Scheidt of Grand Rapids, Mich.; a son Earl, at home; a half-brother, Percy Keodinger of Kutztown and three grandchildren. Services will be at 11 a.m. Tuesday in the William F. Fritz Funeral Home, Kutztown. Calling hours will be 7-8:30 p.m. Monday.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Friday, May 14, 1971, page 37. Submitted by Jerri.]
Emily, wife of Richard Bernt and former resident of Topton, died last Saturday night at her late home in Danbury, Conn. Aged 65 years, she was the daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Moser, also of Topton. Her father, Mr. Moyer, was a former station agent for the Reading company. Her husband survives her. Funeral services will be conducted from the establishment of Schofer and Son, Topton, at 2 o'clock, Thursday afternoon, Rev. William H. Kline officiating. Interment in the Union cemetery, Topton.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Monday, December 17, 1934, page 7. Submitted by Jerri.]
The remains of Charles W. Berry, who died at the St. Joseph's Hospital, will be interred in the Soldier's lot at Charles Evans cemetery by Funeral Director George H. Felix. Deceased was 66 years of age, and was confined to the hospital at different periods during the past two years. He was a veteran of the civil war, and served in Company I, 27th Regiment of Volunteers, of Elmira, New York. He resided in Lancaster county near Adamstown, and made a living by doing odd jobs about the different hotels in that section. He has no known relatives.
[Source: Reading Eagle, January 5, 1900. Submitted by Nancy.]
Services were held in the Burkey & Driscoll Funeral Home, Hamburg, for Gladys I. Berry, 69, who died of natural causes Dec. 25 in her South Seventh Street, Hamburg residence. Burial was in Strausstown Union Cemetery. She was the wife of Jack E. Berry. Born in Strausstown, she was a daughter of the late Warren and Helen (Potteiger) Henne. Last working in 2001, she was a co-owner and operator of her family's business, the Doris Berry Shop, Hamburg. She was a 1950 graduate of Hamburg High School. Berry was a member of St. John's Lutheran Church, Hamburg. She was a life master of the American Contract Bridge League. Also surviving are three daughters, Melanie K. (Berry) Roth and Deena L. (Berry) Kershner, both of Tilden Township; and Lorrene M. (Berry) Mengel, Hamburg. There are also five grandchildren and a great-grandson. Other survivors include two brothers, Clifford Henne, Bethlehem, and Carl Henne, Akron, Lancaster County.
[Source: Hamburg Area Item, January 8, 2003. Submitted by: Nancy McD.]
Services were held for Dena M. Berstler, 91, formerly of Morgantown, who died January 17 in Zerbe Sisters Nursing Center, Caernarvon Township, Lancaster. She was predeceased by her husband, John A. Berstler, in 1971. Born in Reading, she was a member of Twin Valley Bible Chapel, west of Morgantown, where she was organist for 25 years. She had previously served many years as an organist at Morgantown United Methodist Church. She was a graduate of Shillington High School. Berstler is survived by a daughter, Janet B. (Berstler) Fellenbaum, Morgantown. There are also three grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Burial was in Caernarvon Cemetery, Morgantown. The Labs Funeral Home Inc., Honey Brook, handled the arrangements.
[Source: Southern Berks News, January 22, 2003. Submitted by: Nancy McD.]
Harrison William Berstler, native of Berks county, died Saturday at his home, 469 W. Walnut St., Kutztown, in his 73rd year. Mr. Berstler was born in Maiden Creek township, a son of the late Henry and Rachel (Reiter) Berstler. Surviving are his wife, Elizabeth (Deisher) Berstler; four children, Milton F., of Topton; Mary, wife of Daniel Sieger, Kutztown; Catherine, wife of John Sill, Crystal Cave, and Edward H., Kutztown; six grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, one step-brother, Amos George of Kutztown R.F.D., and a number of step-children. His first wife, Rosa, nee Dreibelbis, died 16 years ago. Funeral services will be held Wednesday 1:30 p.m. at the Fritz Funeral home, Kutztown. Interment in Moselem cemetery. The Rev. Robert Laubach of Fogelsville will officiate.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Monday, February 24, 1941, page 7. Submitted by Jerri.]
Bertolet - In Friedensburg, September 23d, Amelia K. Bertolet, widow of Dr. P. G. Bertolet, aged 52 years, and 6 months, less 2 years [sic].
[Source: Berks and Schuylkill Journal, October 28, 1876. Submitted by Kathy.]
Bertolet--In this city, August 17th of consumption, Annie V.R., wife of I.M. Bertolet, aged 29 years. The relatives and friends of the family are respectfully invited to attend her funeral, from the residence of her husgand, on Tuesday, August 20th, at 8 1/2 o'clock A.M., to proceed to the Union Cemetery, in Oley Township, without further notice.
[Source: Reading Times and Dispatch, Monday, August 18, 1872. Submitted by Nancy. Either the day of the week or the date on the masthead is incorrect.]
Bertolet - In Reading, August 17th, Annie V. R. wife of I.M. Bertolet, aged 29 years.
[Source: Berks and Schuylkill Journal, August 24, 1872. Submitted by Kathy.]
Bertolet--On the 20th inst., in Oley township, Daniel Bertolet, in the 88th year of his age. The friends of the family are respectfully invited to attend his funeral, on Thursday morning next, Sept. 24th, at 10 o'clock, from his late residence, in said township, without further notice.
[Source: Reading Eagle, September 22, 1868. Submitted by: Nancy.]
In Oley, on Thursday evening last, the 21st instant, Mrs.. Elizabeth Bertolet, wife of Isaac Bertolet, Esq., age 37 years and 6 months.
[Source: Berks and Schuylkill Journal, June 23, 1849. Submitted by Kathy.]
Bertolet - In Reading, December 9th, Frederick H. infant son of Israel M. Bertolet and Annie V.R. deceased, aged 8 mos.
[Source: Berks and Schuylkill Journal, December 14, 1872. Submitted by Kathy.]
Bertolet - In Oley, April 9th, Hannah Bertolet, daughter of Jacob Bertolet, in the 21st year of her age.
[Source: Berks and Schuylkill Journal, April 15, 1871. Submitted by: Kathy.]
A memorial service will be August 16, in the Pennside Church for Harry J. Bertolet, 75, of Circle Avenue, Exeter Township, who died July 29 in his residence. He was the husband of Ruth M. (Wolfe) Bertolet. Born in Reading, he was employed for 33 years by J. Bertolet Volkswagen Inc., Orwigsburg, Schuylkill County, retiring as service manager in 1998. He was a member of Pennside Presbyterian Church. Bertolet was a veteran of World War II. He is also survived by a son, Gary K. Sr., Cumru Township; and two daughters, Vicki (Berlolet) Rick, Wyomissing, and Linda (Bertolet) Derr, Exeter Township. Other survivors include a brother; seven grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. Burial will be private. The Cremation Society of Pennsylvania, Harrisburg, is handling the arrangements.
[Source: Southern Berks News, August 6, 2003. Submitted by: Nancy McD.]
Bertolet - In Pottstown, June 27th, Henry May, son of Albert and Mary Bertolet, aged 8 weeks.
[Source: Berks and Schuylkill Journal, July 10, 1875. Submitted by Kathy.]
Bertolet - In Oley township, on the 17th inst. Jacob Bertolet, Esq., in the 62d year of his age.
[Source: Berks and Schuylkill Journal, June 22, 1878. Submitted by Kathy.]
Bertolet - In Oley township, on the 4th instant, Jeremiah G. Bertolet, son of Levi Bertolet.
[Source: Berks and Schuylkill Journal, January 8, 1876. Submitted by Kathy.]
Bertolet - In Amity, February 22d, John Bertolet, aged 85 years, 6 months 15 days.
[Source: Berks and Schuylkill Journal, March 11, 1871. Submitted by Kathy.]
Bertolet - In Oley, on the 8th inst., Sarah M. Bertolet, daughter of Jacob Bertolet, Esq., aged 24 years.
[Source: Berks and Schuylkill Journal, October 19, 1872. Submitted by Kathy.]
Bertolett--At Washingtonville, Columbiana county, Ohio, March 12, 1869, Anna Maria, wife of Dr. David K. Bertolett, aged 62 years and 5 months, formerly of Spring Forge, Earl township, Berks county. The deceased was a daughter of Mr. John Kline, deceased, of Amity township, Berks county. She was a most estimable lady, an excellent wife and an affectionate mother, and was beloved and respected by all who knew her. She was an exemplary Christian, and died in the hope of a blessed immortality beyond the grave. Her bereaved husband and children have the warmest sympathy of her many friends in this county and elsewhere; but they feel that their loss is her eternal gain, and they mourn not as those without hope, for they know that she is not lost, but gone before."
[Source: Reading Eagle, March 19, 1869. Submitted by: Nancy.]
Bertolett - In Cumru township, October 11th, William Bertolett, aged 80 years, 1 month and 21 days.
[Source: Berks and Schuylkill Journal, October 16, 1875. Submitted by Kathy.]
Bertolette - On the 22nd instant, at her late residence in Oley township, Sabilla, wife of David H. Bertolette, Sr., and daughter of Samuel H. & Elizabeth G. Leinbach, Sr., aged 50 years, 6 months and 20 days. The relatives and friends of the deceased and family are respectfully invited to attend her funeral from the residence of her husband, in Oley township, Monday, the 27th instant, at 9 1/2 o'clock, a.m. Services at the house. Interment in the family burying ground.
[Source: Berks and Schuylkill Journal, March 25, 1876. Submitted by Kathy.]
Bertolette - In Reading, on December 16th, Sarah, wife of John L. Bertolette, deceased, aged 76 years and 3 months.
[Source: Berks and Schuylkill Journal, December 22, 1877. Submitted by Kathy.]
Amanda Hummel, wife of the late Daniel C. Bertram and daughter of Henry and Lydia (Lorah) Hummel, born Oct. 13, 1861 Roscomanor Twp., Berks Co.; was baptized May 1862 by Rev. Zweizig and was confirmed in Zions Church, Strausstown, April 9, 1887 by Rev. A. Finfrock. She was married to Daniel C. Bertram Oct. 12, 1878, by Rev. Geo. T. McNair. She died Monday, Dec. 12, 1932, at the home of Isaac Kline near Bernville at the age of 71 years, 1 month and 29 days and is survived by six daughters and two sons, also 19 grand and 10 great grandchildren; also 2 sisters. She was buried Dec. 16, with services in the home and Zions Union Church, Strausstown and burial in the adjoining cemetery.
[Source: The Parish Record of the Strausstown Lutheran Parish, April 1933. Submitted by Kathy.]
Bertram - In Bernville, April 22d, Annie Laura Bertram, daughter of Jonathan and Mary Ann Bertram, aged 10 years, 9 months and 11 days.
[Source: Berks and Schuylkill Journal, May 6, 1876. Submitted by Kathy.]
Daniel C. Bertram, husband of Amanda Hummel and son of Elias and Angelina (Clay) Bertram, born Feb. 3, 1852, U. Bern Twp., Berks Co.; was baptized in infancy by Rev. Schmidt. He was confirmed in Christ, Little Tulpehocken Church by Rev. D. D. Trexler and was married to Amanda Hummel Oct. 12, 1878 by Rev. Geo. T. McNair. This union was blessed with 9 children. He died Friday, Sept. 9, 1932, aged 80 years, 7 months and 6 days. He is survived by his wife, 6 daughters and 2 sons; 20 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren; also one sister. He was buried Sept. 14 with services in the home and Zions Church, Strausstown and burial in the adjoining cemetery.
[Source: The Parish Record of the Strausstown Lutheran Parish, April 1933. Submitted by Kathy.]
Bertram, Irvin Darius, son of the late Morris A. and Catherine (nee Pottieger) Bertram, was born at Bernville, Pa., on October 27, 1881, and departed this life on the evening of December 12 at the age of 67 years, 1 month, and 15 days. He was ill for some time but his going was sudden and unexpected. Mr. Bertram was converted about two years ago and was a member of the First Evangelical Congregational Church, Reading, Penna. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Olive Paff Bertram, two daughters, three brothers, two sisters, and three grandchildren. The service was conducted by the undersigned due to the recent illness of the pastor, Rev. C. P. Kichline, who was present and assisted. __N. N. Lower, P.E.
[Source: The United Evangelical (Myerstown, PA), vol. XXV, no. 1, January 4, 1949, p. 13. Submitted by: Lynn.]
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated May 29 in St. Sylvester Roman Catholic Church, Pittsburgh, for Lawrence J. Berwick, of Genesis Drive, Maidencreek Township, who died of natural causes May 25 in the emergency room of St. Joseph Medical Center. Burial will be in Queen of Heaven Cemetery, McMurray, Washington County. He was the husband of Patricia E. (Lyons) Berwick. Born in Pittsburgh, he was a son of the late Bertrum and Mary (Magel) Berwick. He was a graduate of Carrick High School, Pittsburgh, and received a bachelor's degree in business from the University of Pittsburgh. Last working in October, he was employed in corporate real estate by Pensky Truck Leasing, Green Hills, for three years. He was previously employed by R.P.S., Pittsburgh. Also surviving are two sons, Stephen L., a student at the University of Pittsburgh, and Philip M., a student at Robert Morris University, Pittsburgh; and a daughter, Marilyn P., at home. Other survivors include three sisters: Carol (Berwick) Hindman and Dr. Evelyn (Berwick) Hussey, both of Pittsburgh; and Joyce (Berwick) Pifer, St. Clairsville, Ohio. The Klee Funeral Home, Shillington, is in charge of arrangements.
[Source: Kutztown Area Patriot, May 29, 2003. Submitted by: Nancy McD.]
Mary K. Bettler. 72, of North 10th St., died June 6 at 10:04 p.m. in Reading Hospital, where she had been a patient since May 28. She was the wife of John L. Bettler. Born in Allentown, she was a daughter of the late John D and Pauline S. (Marmaru) Kalfadelis. Bettler had been employed as an accountant by the Atlantic Refining Co. She had also been employed by Hettinger Auto Sales, Reading. She is also survived by a daughter, Karen L. Bettler, Wernersville. Other survivors include a brother Charles D. Kalfadelis, Reading. Services will be Monday at 11 a.m. in Sanders Funeral Home. Burial will be private.
[Source: Reading Eagle, June 8, 2002, p. B-4. Submitted by Michelle.]
Howard Betz, 85, died Tuesday at Berks Heim, where he had resided since August 1965. Born in Ashland, he was a son of the late Charles and Mary Luckenbill. There are no immediate survivors. Services will be held at 11 a.m. Friday in Whelan, Fleischmann & Schwartz Funeral Homes Inc., Reading. Interment will be in Charles Evans Cemetery.
[Source: Pottsville Republican, September 15, 1999. Submitted by: Nancy.]
Samuel F. Betz, 93, a retired farmer, died yesterday in his home at 94 E. Franklin St., Topton. He retired in 1945. He was a charter member of the Woodmen of the World Lodge in Kutztown. He was the husband of Ida R. (Stitzel) Betz. Born in Rockland Township, Berks County, he was a son of the late Levi and Rebecca (Fegely) Betz. Surviving with his widow are a daughter, Mildred, wife of Donald H. McLean, of Birdsboro R. 2, and five grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren. Services will be at 2 p.m. Monday in the Earl A. Trexler Funeral Home, 25 E. Weiss St., with calling 7-8:30 p.m. Monday.
[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Friday, January 9, 1970, page 37. Submitted by Jerri.]
Beyerle -- In Bernville, on the 20th instant, Dr. George Beyerle, of apoplexy in the 72nd year of his age.
[Source: Berks and Schuylkill Journal, September 25, 1875. Submitted by: Nancy.]