Obituaries, Death Notices, and Funeral Notices

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.

Bean, William L. Sr.

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.

Bear, Amanda H.

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.

Bear, Elizabeth

Bear -- Near Hamburg, February 13th, Elizabeth Bear, wife of John Bear, aged 44 years, 10 months, and 21 days.

Beard, Theresa

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.

Beaver, Eva

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.

Bechtel, Alfred F.

Bechtel, Anna L.

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.

Bechtel, Catharine

Bechtel, Catherine

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.]

Bechtel, Christian

Bechtel, Elizabeth D.

Bechtel, George S.

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.]

Bechtel, Jeannemarie F.

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.

Bechtel, Katie M.

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.]

Bechtel, Mabel

Bechtel, Mabel H.

Bechtel, Sister of Richard

Bechtel, Russell W.

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.

Bechtel, Sallie

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.

[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Wednesday, February 14, 1934, p. 7. Submitted by Jerri.]

Bechtel, William

Bechtel, Wm. B.

Beck, Charles F.

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.

Beck, Kate (nee DeLong)

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.

[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Thursday, March 31, 1949, page 11. Submitted by Jerri.]

Becker, Abraham

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.

Becker, Benjamin

Becker, Catharine

Becker, Cuno

Becker, Elaine L.

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.

Becker, Elizabeth A. (nee Marks)

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.]

Becker, Emilie J.

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.

Becker, Ethel M.

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.

Becker, Gottfried

Becker, Ida

Becker, Jane (nee Fetterman)

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, John Sr.

Becker -- In Centre, Jan. 14th, John Becker, sr., aged 79 years, 1 month and 20 days.

Becker, Joseph

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.

Becker, Lillie (nee DeLong)

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, Magdalena

Becker -- In Alsace, December 21st, Magdalena Becker, widow of Daniel Becker, aged 63 years, 10 months and 20 days.

Becker, Samuel

Becker, Sarah (nee Kehl)

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.

Becker, Warren E.

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)

Beckert, Child of Irvin

An infant child of Mr. and Mrs. Irvin Beckert died at Shillington, Saturday morning, of summer complaint.

Beckman, Sr., Edward

Beer, Mrs. Dan.

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.

Beers, Mamie (nee Seisholtz)

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.]

Beeseaman, Amos

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.

Behler, Frances K.

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.

Behm, Florence

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.

Behm, William

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.]

Behney, Mary E.

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.

Behringer, Alice (nee Oswald)

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.]

Behringer, Milton R.

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.]

Beiber, A. Lincoln

Beiber, Benjamin E.

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.]

Beidegam, George

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.

Beideman, Samuel

Beideman -- In Gilbertsville, September 22d, Samuel Beideman, aged 87 years, 7 months and 4 days.

Beidewell, Earl E.

Beidler, Catharine (nee Huffert)

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.]

Beidler, Florence E.

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.

Beidler, James

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.]

Beidler, John

Beiler, Harry

Beiler, Jesse J.

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.

Beiley, Edwin J.

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.]

Beisswanger, Michael D.

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.

Beitler, Alvin F. and John Rowe

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.]

Beitler, Edith

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.

Beitler, Ellen Melinda (nee Conrad)

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.]

Beitler, Fianna (nee Fox)

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.]

Beitler, Harry

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.

Beitler, Mrs. Reuben (nee Conrad)

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.]

Beitler, Susan Sabina

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.]

Beitler, Victoria H. (nee Stoudt)

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.]

Beitler, William Jr.

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.]

Belack, Ann

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.

Belini, Anthony F.

Bell, James

Bell, Lester F.

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.

Bell, Mary Louisa

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.

Bell, Robert A.

Bellman, Sabilla

Bellman - In Cumru, August 26th, Sabilla Bellman, widow of Daniel Bellman, aged about 81 years.

Bender, Barry L.

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.

Bender, Charles

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.

Bender, Charles

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.

Bender, Leroy H.

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.

Bender, Levi S.

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.

Bender, Levi S.

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.

Bender, Marie E.

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.

Bender, Sarah K.

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.

Benedict, Rose Ann

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.

Benevit, Gertrude M. (nee Bixler)

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.

Benevit, Roy A.

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.

Benfield, Adam W.

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.]

Benfield, Amanda Y. (nee Siesholtz)

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.]

Benfield, Anna

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.

Benfield, Daniel

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.]

Benfield, Frank N.

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.]

Benfield, Henry

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.]

Benfield, Henry

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.]

Benfield, Infant of Amandus

Benfield, Irwin S.

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.]

Benfield, Irwin S.

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.]

Benfield, Katie M.

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.]

Benfield, Lahana Lucinda (nee Rohrbach)

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.]

Benfield, Marian Sarah

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.]

Benfield, Martha E.

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.]

Benfield, Oscar

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.]

Benfield, Russell L.

Benfield�Russell 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.]

Benfield, Samuel B.

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.]

Benfield, Seneca K.

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.]

Benfield, Seneca R.

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.

[Source: Allentown Morning Call, Saturday, March 28, 1908, p. 4. Submitted by Jerri.]

Benfield, Victoria E.

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.

Benfield, William F.

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.

Bennecoff, William

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.

Benner, Mrs. Charles

Benner, Christian

Benner, Helen L.

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.

Benner, Irvin L.

Benner, Jonathan

Bennethum, Diana M.

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.

Bennethum, Lizzie (nee Engle)

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.

Bennethum, Robert N.

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 o�clock, at the house. Services in the Evangelical Church, Newmanstown. Interment in Elias cemetery, Newmanstown.

Bennethum, Sarah Anna (nee Kunius)

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.

Bennett, Charles F.

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.]

Benney, John

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.

Benninger, Child of Solomon

Bensinger, Catharine

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.

Bensinger, Margaret E.

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.

Benton, Mary Ann

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.

Bentz, Maria

Benz, Charles

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.]

Benzel, John

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.

Berchert/Bechert, Willoughby

Berchert--In Exeter, March 3, Willoughby, son of Stephen L. and Sarah Ann Bechert [sic], aged 5 months and 19 days.

Bergeman III, John T.

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.

Berger, Anna Barbara

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.

Berger, Annie Rebecca

Berger - On March 7th, Annie Rebecca, daughter of Levi J. and Rebecca Berger, aged 2 years, 10 months and 29 days.

Berger, Benjamin S.

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.

Berger, Catharine (nee Hiester)

In Upper Tulpehocken, on the 27th June, Catharine, wife of Daniel Berger, and daughter of Yost Hiester, in the 34th year of her age.

Berger, Christina (nee Sunday)

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.

Berger, Dorothy A.

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.

Berger, Elizabeth

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.

Berger, Emanuel

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.

Berger, George Sr.

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.

Berger, Helen M.

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.

Berger, Henry A.

Berger, Herber

Berger, James William

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

Berger, John George

Berger, Ida Elizabeth

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.

Berger, James Joseph

Berger - In Upper Bern, June 24th, James Joseph, son of Daniel and Elizabeth Berger, aged 16 years, 7 months and 23 days.

Berger, John

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.

Berger, John Franklin

Berger - In Penn, on March 28th, John Franklin, son of Adam and Elizabeth Berger, aged 19 years, 3 months 10 days.

Berger, Lillian A.

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.

Berger, Maria Anna

Berger - In Penn, Maria Anna Berger, daughter of Adam and Elizabeth (Hofer) Berger, aged 9 years 7 months 23 days.

Berger, Norman V.

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.

Berger, Paul L.

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.

Berger, Sarah

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, Solomon

Berger, Stanley A.

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.

Berger, Susan M., Willie T.

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.

Bergey, Cornelius

Bergey, Henry

Bergey, Mrs. Henry

Bergey, Lillian M.

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.

Bergman, Sylvia G.

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.

Berk, Jeffrey B.

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.

Berk, Jeffrey B.

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.

Berk, William H.

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.

Berkey, A.G.

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.

Berkey, John S., Mary, and Sidney

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.]

Berkley, Clarence R.

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.

Berkley Jr., Randell E.

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.

Berkley Jr., Randell E.

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.

Berky, Alvin

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.]

Berky, William

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.]

Bernardo, Frances (nee Lombardo)

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.

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.

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.

Berndt, George

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.

Berndt, Jesse H.

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.]

Bernhard, Charles

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, Henry H.

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.

Bernhardt, Wendel

Bernhart, Frank

Bernt, Emily (nee Moser)

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.]

Berry, Charles W.

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.

Berry, Francis

Berry, Gladys I.

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.

Berstler, Dena M.

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.

Bertolet, Abraham B.

Bertolet, Amelia K.

Bertolet - In Friedensburg, September 23d, Amelia K. Bertolet, widow of Dr. P. G. Bertolet, aged 52 years, and 6 months, less 2 years [sic].

Bertolet, Annie V.R.

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, Anna V.R.

Bertolet - In Reading, August 17th, Annie V. R. wife of I.M. Bertolet, aged 29 years.

Bertolet, Daniel

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.

Bertolet, Elizabeth

In Oley, on Thursday evening last, the 21st instant, Mrs.. Elizabeth Bertolet, wife of Isaac Bertolet, Esq., age 37 years and 6 months.

Bertolet, Frederick H.

Bertolet - In Reading, December 9th, Frederick H. infant son of Israel M. Bertolet and Annie V.R. deceased, aged 8 mos.

Bertolet, Hannah

Bertolet - In Oley, April 9th, Hannah Bertolet, daughter of Jacob Bertolet, in the 21st year of her age.

Bertolet, Harry J.

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.

Bertolet, Henry May

Bertolet - In Pottstown, June 27th, Henry May, son of Albert and Mary Bertolet, aged 8 weeks.

Bertolet, Jacob

Bertolet - In Oley township, on the 17th inst. Jacob Bertolet, Esq., in the 62d year of his age.

Bertolet, Jeremiah G.

Bertolet - In Oley township, on the 4th instant, Jeremiah G. Bertolet, son of Levi Bertolet.

Bertolet, John

Bertolet - In Amity, February 22d, John Bertolet, aged 85 years, 6 months 15 days.

Bertolet, Sarah M.

Bertolet - In Oley, on the 8th inst., Sarah M. Bertolet, daughter of Jacob Bertolet, Esq., aged 24 years.

Bertolett, Anna Maria

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."

Bertolett, William

Bertolett - In Cumru township, October 11th, William Bertolett, aged 80 years, 1 month and 21 days.

Bertolette, Sabilla (nee Leinbach)

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.

Bertolette, Sarah

Bertolette - In Reading, on December 16th, Sarah, wife of John L. Bertolette, deceased, aged 76 years and 3 months.

Bertram, Amanda (nee Hummel)

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, Anna Laura

Bertram - In Bernville, April 22d, Annie Laura Bertram, daughter of Jonathan and Mary Ann Bertram, aged 10 years, 9 months and 11 days.

Bertram, Daniel C.

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

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.]

Berwick, Lawrence J.

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.

Bettinger, Philip

Bettinger, William

Betz, Howard

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.

Beyer, Catharine

Beyer, John

Beyerle, George

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.]

If you have an obituary, a death notice, a funeral notice, or another news items that relates to an individual's death, and you would like to submit that item, send it to Nancy.

Last Modified Sunday, 08-Nov-2009 11:05:17 EST

Home Page Obituary Index

This Berks County genealogy Web site is part of the PAGenWeb Project and the USGenWeb Project.

Unless indicated otherwise in a particular page carrying this copyright notice, permission to use, copy, and distribute documents and related graphics delivered from this World Wide Web server (http://berks.pa-roots.com/) for non-commercial use is hereby granted, provided that the above copyright notice appears in all copies and that both that copyright notice and this permission notice appear. All other rights reserved. Nancy J. Freehafer disclaims all warranties with regard to this information. The information described herein is provided as is without warranty of any kind, either expressed or implied.

Obituaries, Death Notices, and Funeral Notices - B

Bealer, Mary

Bean, William L. Sr.

Bear, Amanda H.

Bear, Elizabeth

Beard, Theresa

Beaver, Eva

Bechtel, Alfred F.

Bechtel, Anna L.

Bechtel, Catherine

Bechtel, George S.

Bechtel, Jeannemarie F.

Bechtel, Katie M.

Bechtel, Russell W.

Bechtel, Sallie

Beck, Charles F.

Beck, Kate (nee DeLong)

Becker, Abraham

Becker, Benjamin

Becker, Elaine L.

Becker, Elizabeth A. (nee Marks)

Becker, Emilie J.

Becker, Ethel M.

Becker, Jane (nee Fetterman)

Becker, John Sr.

Becker, Joseph

Becker, Lillie (nee DeLong)

Becker, Magdalena

Becker, Sarah (nee Kehl)

Becker, Warren E.

Beckert, Child of Irvin

Beer, Mrs. Dan.

Beers, Mamie (nee Seisholtz)

Beeseaman, Amos

Behler, Frances K.

Behm, Florence

Behm, William

Behney, Mary E.

Behringer, Alice (nee Oswald)

Behringer, Milton R.

Beiber, Benjamin E.

Beidegam, George

Beideman, Samuel

Beidler, Catharine (nee Huffert)

Beidler, Florence E.

Beidler, James

Beiler, Jesse J.

Beiley, Edwin J.

Beisswanger, Michael D.

Beitler, Alvin F. and John Rowe

Beitler, Edith

Beitler, Ellen Melinda (nee Conrad)

Beitler, Fianna (nee Fox)

Beitler, Harry

Beitler, Mrs. Reuben (nee Conrad)

Beitler, Susan Sabina

Beitler, Victoria H. (nee Stoudt)

Beitler, William Jr.

Belack, Ann

Bell, Lester F.

Bell, Mary Louisa

Bellman, Sabilla

Bender, Barry L.

Bender, Charles

Bender, Charles

Bender, Leroy H.

Bender, Levi S.

Bender, Levi S.

Bender, Marie E.

Bender, Sarah K.

Benedict, Rose Ann

Benevit, Gertrude M. (nee Bixler)

Benevit, Roy A.

Benfield, Adam W.

Benfield, Amanda Y. (nee Siesholtz)

Benfield, Anna

Benfield, Daniel

Benfield, Frank N.

Benfield, Henry

Benfield, Henry