Intelligencer Journal/Lancaster New Era

Alice Gerhart Shiffer

Alice Gerhart Shiffer, 95, went to be with her Lord on Tuesday, ­January 29, 2013 at Ephrata Manor where she resided since 2005. She was married to Richard M. Shiffer who preceded her in death in 2003 after 57 years of marriage.A lifelong resident of Ephrata, Alice was born December 18, 1917 to the late Harry M. and Alice (Sauder) Gerhart. She began her employment as a secretary for her dad at Harry M. ­Gerhart Coal & Lumber and later worked for Witwer?s Insurance Agency from where she retired.As a follower of Christ, His love showed through her giving of her time and compassion for others. She was well known for her smile and laughter. As a lifelong member of First United Methodist Church, Ephrata, she sang in the choir 50+ years as well as the Ephrata Manor choir. As an active church member, Alice was very involved with United Methodist Women and the Otterbein Sunday School Class. She was also involved with Christian Women?s Club and was a volunteer for Ten Thousand Villages and Ephrata Community Hospital. As a 1935 EHS graduate, Alice was one of the few remaining members of the "35 Club."Alice is survived by her 4 children, Jean A. Shiffer of Paoli, Richard G., husband of the late Rebecca (DeZuba) Shiffer of Longmont, CO, Jackie L., wife of Norwood L. Klopp of Denver, Deborah S., wife of David H. Sandri of Paxinos; a long-time family friend, Marcy A. Aylmer of Paoli; 5 grandchildren, Dustin, husband of Stephanie (Kilhefner) Klopp of Gordonville, Janelle, wife of Kenneth Howell of Johnstown, CO, Kristen, wife of Donald Whaley of Newport News, VA, Jonathan Shiffer of Longmont, CO, Michael Sandri of Paxinos; 5 great grandchildren, Taylynn and Darian Klopp, Houston and Hudson Howell and Benaiah Whaley. In addition to her husband and parents, she was preceded in death by her brothers, Samuel S., Lloyd S. and Harry S. Gerhart; 3 sisters, Elizabeth G. Garman, Caroline G. Grimes and Elaine G. Mango. Alice was the last of the ­Gerhart siblings.A viewing will take place on Saturday, February 2, from 9 to 10 a.m. at the First United Methodist Church, 68 N. Church Street, Ephrata, followed by her funeral service at 10 a.m., with Pastor Walter Carter officiating.Interment will take place in the Cedar Hill Cemetery, Ephrata.Memorial contributions in Alice's memory may be made to Ephrata Manor Benevolent Fund, 99 Bethany Rd., Ephrata, PA 17522; First United Methodist Church, 68 N. Church Street, Ephrata, PA 17522; Alzheimer's Association, Greater PA Chapter, 3544 N. Progress Ave., Suite 205, Harrisburg, PA 17110.Arrangements by Stradling Funeral Homes, Inc., Akron/Ephrata. Online condolences can be given at:stradlingfuneralhome.com