Exeter High School Eagles Alumni Association

The Exeter High School Class of ’68 will be holding their annual luncheon on Sunday, 6/8/2025, at Esposito’s Restaurant from noon to 3pm. Come celebrate 57 years post-graduation with classmates who’ve barely aged a bit – the same as you! Casual, fun, games, order what you’d like. IF YOU HAVEN’T gotten the annual “Save the Date” postcard, we need to find you! Contact us: [email protected]

Class of 2004
Patrick G. Martz, 38, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, July 19, 2024 in New Britain Township, Bucks County. He was the loving son of Duane W. Martz and the late Linda M. (Becker) Martz.
Patrick was born in Denver, Colorado. He graduated from Exeter Township High School. He received his barber certification and was a certified physical fitness instructor.
Patrick enjoyed listening to music and spending time at the beach. He enjoyed all sports, but especially baseball, football, and personal fitness. He spent a few years in Boulder Colorado and always strived to make it back and settle in Colorado.
Left to treasure his memory are his father; sisters, Hilary L. Petaccio and husband Jerry, and Rebecca M. Petrozino and husband Michael; and nieces and nephews.
Patrick was predeceased by his mother, grandparents, Perry and Catherine Becker, and Jane and Lyman Martz.
A Prayer Service will be held on Monday, July 29, 2024 at 11 AM at Edward J. Kuhn Funeral Home, Inc., 739 Penn Avenue, West Reading, PA 19611. The visitation will be held from 10 AM until the time of the Prayer Service.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Reading Animal Rescue League of Berks County.
Edward J. Kuhn Funeral Home, Inc. is honored to serve the Martz family. Condolences may be expressed at kuhnfuneralhomes.com.

Class of 1965
Donald A Oldt, 78, of Marlborough, Connecticut, passed away on July 20, 2024 in Marlborough Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. He was the husband of the late Mary Ann (MacDonald) Oldt. Born in Exeter Township, he was the son of the late George S. and Pauline Montreal (Welker-Haupt) Oldt.
Donald proudly served his country in the Army from 1965-1968 after graduating from Exeter High School. He was stationed in Germany during his enlistment. Donald worked as the Assistant Chief Deputy Prothontary of Berks County for many years. He also served as the Lieutenant Governor of the Delaware PA District of the Optimist International Club. Donald also enjoyed listening to music and singing along.
Donald is survived by his many nieces and nephews and is predeceased by his siblings.
Visitation with family and friends will be held on July 26 2024 from 10:00am to 11:00am, with services beginning at 11:00am at Lutz Funeral Home, Inc., 2100 Perkiomen Avenue, Reading, PA 19606. Interment will follow at Forest Hills Memorial Park, 390 W. Neversink Road Reading, PA 19606. Lutz Funeral Home, Inc. is in charge of arrangements. For online condolences, please visit www.LutzFuneralHome.com

Class of 1992
SHANNON CHERIE (DEEDS) STEWARD
It is with great sadness the family of Shannon Cherie Steward (Deeds) announces her passing on July 8, 2024 at the age 50 years young. Shannon was surrounded by her family in her Exeter home when she lost her long battle with cancer.
Shannon graduated from Exeter High School before pursing her passion for nursing at the Reading Hospital School of Nursing. She began her career as a psychiatric nurse, later transitioning to pediatric nursing, where she touched the lives of many families with her care and compassion.
She was known for her vibrant personality. Shannon loved reading the STAR magazine so she could stay informed of all the gossip. Shan was delightfully inquisitive, always keen on keeping up with everyone’s news. She was devoted fan of the Phillies and loved all things Disney.
Shannon is survived by her loving husband, Jason Steward, their son, Jacob, her father, Bruce Deeds, her favorite sister, Natalie, wife of Brian Barna and her nieces and nephew, Amanda, Zoe and Zeven and Jax, her family pet. She was preceded in death by her mother, Carol Deeds (Shiller).
A celebration of Shannon’s life will be planned in the coming weeks, where family and friends will gather to honor her memory and the impact she had on their lives.

Class of1980
Greg Otto Esenwein, 62, of Mohnton, PA, passed away on Thursday,
July 11, 2024 in his home. He was the husband of Stacy (Varvel) Esenwein, and companion of Susan Focht. Born on June 25, 1962 in Reading, PA, he was the son of the late Otto G. and Joyce J. (Babb) Esenwein. Greg graduated from Exeter High School, class of 1980. Greg's hobbies included reading books and working at flea markets.
Early in his career, Greg was known as the "shoe guy" as he worked for many years at various locations for Hanover Shoes. He would always greet you with a big smile and a loud hello! He also worked for Kay Jewelers before moving to the banking industry, working for Sovereign Bank, Santander Bank and finally Wells Fargo.
He was a lifetime member of Zion Spies Evangelical Lutheran Church, where he was very active over the years. Greg most recently worked for the church as a Technical Specialist, being responsible for broadcasting worship services over social media and providing video and audio support during services and other events.
Greg is survived by his brother Glen Esenwein, husband of Tracy, and his nephew Tyler Esenwein and niece Kaitlyn Esenwein.
Visitation with family and friends will be held on Saturday, July 20, 2024 from 10:00 am to 11:00 am with services beginning at 11:00 am at Zion Spies Evangelical Lutheran Church, 310 Spies Church Road, Reading, PA 19606. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Zion Spies Evangelical Lutheran Church Memorial Fund. Lutz Funeral Home, Inc., is in charge of arrangements. For online condolences, please visit www.LutzFuneralHome.com

Class of 1963 -No obituary
Judith “Judy” (Heifert) (Houck) Hartman
07-24-1945 — 06-26-2024
Secretary at EHS and Administration Building

Class of 1986
Victor Thomas Greer, 56, passed away June 25, 2024, at his home in Exeter Township, with his father by his side.
He was the son of the Thomas H. Greer and the late Maria L. (Montes) Greer.
Victor was a graduate of Exeter Township High School, class of 1986.
He was a United States Navy Veteran.
He received a Bachelors Degree in Engineering from Penn State University. He also received his certifications as Professional Engineering, working for various engineering firms in Berks County and the surrounding areas.
Victor loved flying and had a pilots license since his late teen's. He also learned to read music and play the guitar at a young age. Over his life, Victor loved all animals, especially his pets, Tiger, Paris, Lucky, Wh**ey and Scooter. He also had birds, deer, and a family of racoons that depended on him everyday too.
In addition to his father, he is survived by numerous relatives.
Funeral Services will be private at the convenience of the family. Victor wished to be remembered by all as he was in life. Edward J. Kuhn Funeral Home Inc., 739 Penn Ave., West Reading, PA 19611, has been entrusted with arrangements. Online condolences may be expressed at www.kuhnfuneralhomes.com.

Class of 1995

Class of 1966
Dwight R. Bossler, 76, of Spring City, PA, passed away on Monday, July 1, 2024 at Southeastern Veterans Center. Born in Reading, PA, he was the son of the late Miles M. Bossler Sr. and Anna (Hafer) Bossler. Dwight graduated from Exeter High School and Spring Garden Institute in Philadelphia. He proudly served his country in The United States Navy. Dwight was a member of the class reunion committee for Exeter High School. He worked as a maintenance mechanic for Mrs. Smith for 24 years, then went on to work for Berks Packing until his retirement.

Dwight is survived by his son Terry A. Bossler, his brother Miles M. Bossler Jr., and his sister Heather Shustack. He was preceded in death by his sisters Joan Bretz, and Betty Koch, and brother Dale Bossler.

Visitation with friends and family will be held on Tuesday, July 9, 2024 from 10:00 am to 11:00 am with services beginning at 11:00 am at Lutz Funeral Home, Inc., 2100 Perkiomen Avenue, Reading, PA 19606. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Wounded Warriors Project, P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, KS, 66675. Lutz Funeral Home, Inc., is in charge of arrangements. For online condolences, please visit our website at www.LutzFuneralHome.com

Class of 1978
Congratulations Craig!

Class of 1982

Beth Ann Epler, 61, of St. Lawrence, passed away Tuesday, June 25, 2024 in her residence surrounded by family. Born in Reading, Beth was the daughter of the late Donald K. and Mary Lou (Missimer) Epler. She was a 1982 graduate of Exeter High School and was employed for 30 years as a preschool assistant at Pied Piper Nursery School, and was most recently a volunteer at Community United Church of Christ Preschool. Beth is survived by her brothers Jay D. Epler husband of Sherry A. Epler of St. Lawrence; Robert E. Epler husband of Katherine J. Epler of Richfield, Minnesota; nieces McKenzie Epler, Joanna Epler; nephews Gabriel Epler, William Epler, as well as aunts and numerous cousins, to whom she was so very special.

Beth loved animals, particularly her two dog friends, Lily and Brodie. She enjoyed reading, going to the beach, and spending time with her friends at Berks Encore in Douglassville. She also enjoyed taking walks in the neighborhood in which she grew up, chatting with lifelong friends and neighbors along the way.

A celebration of Life Tribute Service will be held at Bean Funeral Homes & Crematory, 6 Fairlane Road, Exeter Township, Tuesday, July 2, 2024 at 11:00 am. Amy S. Landis, Celebrant, will officiate. Interment will be held at the convenience of the family. The family will receive relatives and friends at Bean Funeral Homes & Crematory Tuesday from 9:30 am to 11:00 am. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Berks Encore 40 North 9th Street Reading, PA 19601 or Animal Rescue League of Berks County 58 Kennel Road, Birdsboro, PA 19508 in memory of Ms. Beth Ann Epler. Online condolences may be made at www.beanfuneralhomes.com

This was just discovered while the class is trying to make preparations for their 40 year reunion!
Class of 1984
OBITUARY
Teresa Louise (Weaver) Price, 40, Hamburg, passed away Oct. 14, 2007, at home, surrounded by her loving family.
She was the fiance of Cory A. Schell, Hamburg.
Born Jan. 20, 1967, in Reading, Teresa was a daughter of Geraldine S. (Nagle) Weaver, Exeter Township, and the late Robert E. Weaver.

Teresa was employed for seven years as an accountant for UGI Energies, Reading.
She was a graduate of Exeter High School and Pace Institute, where she received a degree in accounting.

An Army veteran, she was in Army Intelligence stationed in Japan where she served as an interpreter. She received a sharpshooter award.
She also is survived by a daughter, Jennifer L. Price, Hamburg.
There also are two sisters, Diane (Weaver) Ellis, Exeter Township, and Amy (Weaver) Vargas, Kennett Square.

Viewing will be Wednesday 5 to 7 p.m., with military honors starting at 5 p.m. in Edward J. Kuhn Funeral Home Inc., 739 Penn Ave., West Reading.

Reunion information for class of 2004!

Reunion reminder for the Class of 1984!

We've come a long way since 2009 thanks to all who've donated to our scholarship fund and through membership solicitations. Please consider joining! Only $10 for a lifetime membership.
We will have a stand set up at the Food Truck Festival on Friday. Stop by and sign up! We greatly appreciate your support!

For classmates of the Reiffton Elementary school in the 1950's who had Bertha Faust for 6th grade, after some research I found out this was her son!

Class of 1957

March 2, 1939 – April 25, 2024

Donald Duane Faust, of Upper Marlboro, MD, died peacefully on April 25, at his home, surrounded by his loving family. Mr. Faust was born on March 2, 1939, to Donald E. Faust and Bertha Shull Faust in Mount Pleasant, Pennsylvania.

Mr. Faust served in the Air Force from 1957-1961 and was stationed at Andrews Air Force base. It was here that he met his future wife, Evelyn Marie Nance. In 1960, the couple were married and welcomed three children: Cheryl, Daniel and Monika. They lived in Clinton, relocating to Fort Washington, MD and then Upper Marlboro, MD. After leaving the Air Force, he also worked for C&P Telephone, Giant Food and his own company, Faust Contractors.

Mr. Faust was very active in his community, wherever he lived! In Clinton, he was a member of the Jaycees and was the organizer of “Clinton Days” for many years. He also was an active member of the Knights of Columbus at his parish, St. John the Evangelist church in Clinton. He served as Grand Knight for 3 terms. One of his favorite events, as a Knight, was Christmas in April. In addition to his volunteer work as a Knights of Columbus, he also volunteered for years as a baseball coach for the Allentown Boys Club. Many slurpees were gifted over the years from Coach Faust to his teams! Mr. Faust thrived on helping others. As a final, generous act of kindness, he donated his body to science to help others. The family prays for a cure for dementia.

Mr. Faust also loved art, specifically sketching and painting. As a young man, Mr. Faust was offered a job with Walt Disney. He would later joke to his children that he turned that offer down to marry their mother! His children are grateful! That did not stop him from adding color to his life, whether it was painting walls and cabinets or painting beautiful landscapes, portraits and anything his wife requested! He was especially proud of his collection of paintings he called, “The Streets of Upper Marlboro” depicting iconic buildings in his hometown. These paintings were on display at the Upper Marlboro Town Hall for a special showing a few years ago.

Mr. Faust’s greatest love was for his family. Family always came first and he lived by “The Golden Rule.” He is predeceased by his beloved son, Daniel. He is survived by his wife, Evelyn Faust, daughter Cheryl Hokanson(Matt), daughter Monika Barilla and grandchildren, Sarah Farrell(Phillip), Casey Shea, Marisa Barilla, Miranda Barilla, Lyndse Hokanson and Olivia Hokanson; great-grandchildren Evan Champagne, Shyanne Farrell and Connor Farrell. Also survived by his loving sister Shelby Schweinsburg (Carl) and their children Karen Marhefka (Jim) and Denise Jones(Scott) and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.

A memorial mass was held on Friday, May 17, at 10:30 am at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church 8908 Old Branch Avenue, Clinton, MD 20735

Hello EHS 79ers... The Committee needs your input! We're looking for your best indication of whether or not you (or you plus one) are planning to attend the reunion on September 21st. Regrets as well as positive replies are helpful. This estimated headcount will help us in choosing the best menu options/cost for our reunion. Reach out to classmates not on Facebook (or on but not active) and please respond on their behalf, too. Kindly respond by the end of May to [email protected]. More info to come in June!
Thank you 😀

I was just notified of this obituary!

Class of 1965
Nelson E. Schwartz, 77, of Reading, passed away Friday, December 1, 2023, in the care of Promedica Sinking Spring, where he resided since 2021. He was the widower of Diane L. (Blimline) Schwartz, who passed away on August 7, 2019.
Born in Reading to the late Henry E. and Janet M. (Moser) Schwartz, Nelson graduated from Exeter High School in 1965.
Nelson started his working life as a movie theater usher. He later worked for Firestone and for Interstate Container, but he was most proud of his 20 years as the owner and operator of Washington Novelty.
He was a hard worker who was very dedicated to his business. He liked to have things his own way. As he grew older, he learned a deeper appreciation for family. His two years at Promedicia were made brighter by the friendship he formed with his roommate, Charles.
Nelson is survived by his children, Michael N. Schwartz, of Reading, and Lori Dautrich, of Reading, and his grandchildren, Jessica Adams, Julie Schwartz, Kristen Schwartz, George Smits, and David Smits. Nelson is also survived by his brother, Scott Schwartz and wife, Ruth, of Colorado.
In addition to his wife, Diane, and his parents, Nelson was predeceased by his son, Jeffrey, and by his sister, Sheila M. Knappenberger. Nelson's life was profoundly impacted by the tragic deaths of his siblings Cindy, Jean, Jane, Carol, and Billy during a house fire on New Year's Eve, 1962.
A funeral service for Nelson was held on Thursday, December 7, 2023.

Attention class of 1979: Save the date for your 45th class reunion!
Saturday, September 21, 2024 at P. J. Whelihan's Restaurant, 1101 Rocky Dr. West Lawn PA 19609 starting at 6 pm. The committee is working on the details (menu, cost, modes of payment, etc.) and we will let you know when they are finalized- likely May. Until then, mark your calendars and help us spread the word....reach out to classmates who are not on Facebook or who may not see this post to let them know. Thank you and we hope you plan on attending.

We've approached the final stretch of the 2023-2024 school year and graduation is right around the corner (38 days and counting!). If you're looking for a great way to honor your remarkable graduates and celebrate their incredible achievement, consider purchasing a Legacy Named Brick. We are currently in Phase 6 of this joint project with Exeter High School Eagles Alumni Association. The bricks are prominently displayed under the Wanamaker Eagle statue at the front of the Senior High School and are a unique opportunity to leave a lasting mark on campus. Please see the order form below for details. We've now also added a new online order option that you can access by visiting https://www.exetereducationfoundation.org/ways-to-give

Class of 1983
Glenn Hoover, 58, of Oley, PA, passed away on Wednesday, April 24, 2024. He was the husband of Vickie L. (Willman) Hoover, with whom he celebrated 23 years of marriage. Born in Reading, PA, he was the son of Glenn A. and Mary Lou (Bieber) Hoover, of Birdsboro. Glenn graduated from Exeter High School, class of 1983 and Lincoln Technical School. Glenn was a machinist, lastly employed by Carpenter Technology. Glenn loved everything about dirt track racing and building cars. He enjoyed watching his daughter play softball and racing with his son. He took pride in cutting his grass and gardening, doing things for others, and his dogs Quinn and Bristol. He was a fun loving and outgoing man who touched the lives of many.
In addition to his wife and parents, Glenn is survived by his children Sara and Kerry Hoover, his siblings; Christine Sterner, widow of Gene, David Hoover, husband of Julie, Sheila Parker, wife of Bill, and many nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his in-laws Norman and Merle Willman, and his extended family.
Those attending the visitation and services, the family asks that you please wear your favorite racing shirt in honor of Glenn.
Visitation with family and friends will be held on Tuesday, April 30, 2024 from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm in Lutz Funeral Home, Inc., 2100 Perkiomen Avenue, Reading, PA 19606. Services will be held on Wednesday, May 1, 2024 beginning at 10:00 am in Lutz Funeral Home, Inc. Interment will follow at Spies Zion Cemetery, 318 Spies Church Road, Reading, PA 19606. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Animal Rescue League, 58 Kennel Road, Birdsboro, PA 19508. Lutz Funeral Home, Inc., is in charge of arrangements. For online condolences, please visit www.LutzFuneralHome.com

No obituaries available but Robert Yost Jr., class of 1966 and Jeffrey Yost, class of 1971 passed in April. Sincere condolences to both their families.

Class of 1994

Jeanine M. (Schweitzer) Metzler, 48, of Sinking Spring, PA, passed away Tuesday, April 24, 2024. Born in Reading, PA, she was the daughter of the late Gerald and Joyce A. (Fraizer) Schweitzer. Jeanine graduated from Exeter High School, class of 1994. She received her Bachelor's Degree in Accounting and Marketing from Lebanon Valley College and her Master's and PhD from Kutztown University. Jeanine retired from Northampton Community College where she was a Professor of Accounting for 20 years. Currently, Jeanine was the controller for Berks Auto Collision Center, a place that she didn't consider work and brought her back to her father's love for cars. Jeanine was an avid NASCAR and dirt track racing fan, loved her dog Mocha, and could always be found with great friends at the local bingo halls.
Jeanine is survived by her daughter Emma, and her former spouse Brian Metzler. She is also survived by her sister Jaclyn Reppert, companion of Chad M. Trexler, as well as her two loving nephews Griffin Reppert and Colby Trexler.
Visitation with family and friends will be held on Sunday, April 28, 2024 from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm with services beginning at 1:00 pm in Lutz Funeral Home, Inc., 2100 Perkiomen Avenue, Reading, PA 19606. Interment will be held privately. Lutz Funeral Home, Inc., is in charge of arrangements. For online condolences, please visit www.LutzFuneralHome.com

Class of 1980

Thomas F. Rathman, 61, of Exeter Township, passed away on Thursday, April 4, 2024 in his home with his loving family by his side. Born in Reading, PA, he was the son of Phyllis J. (Hornberger) Rathman and the late Thomas F. Rathman. Tommy graduated from Exeter High School, class of 1980. He owned his own business, Tom Rathman General Contracting for many years until his retirement. Tommy was an avid hunter and fisherman, loved cooking and sharing his recipes, and going to the mountains. He was a founding member of Pine Tree Retreat Cabin in North Bend, PA. In addition to his mother, Tommy is survived by his siblings; Susan Salaneck, wife of Peter, Robin Rathman, wife of John Ward, Corinne Majowicz, wife of Robert, and Gregory Rathman, husband of Annette. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews, as well as his best friend, his dog Bailey. The family would like to thank Healing Hearts Care for the love and care they gave to Tommy. Visitation with family and friends will be held on Tuesday, April 9, 2024 from 10:00 am 11:00 am with services beginning at 11:00 am in Lutz Funeral Home, Inc., 2100 Perkiomen Avenue, Reading, PA 19606. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to an Animal Charity of your choice. Lutz Funeral Home, Inc., is in charge of arrangements. For online condolences, please visit www.LutzFuneralHome.com

Class of 1982
Barbara Bergstresser Dietrich will be one of 8 athletes inducted into the Berks County Chapter of PA Sports Hall of Fame on April 28th at the Double Tree in Reading.
Barbara won 12 letters of which 4 were in field hockey, 4 in basketball, 2 in softball and 2 in track and received All-Berks honors for the Eagles! She was inducted into the Kutztown University Hall of Fame for field hockey. She was a two-time All-PA State Athletic Conference first-team selection
(1984-85), finished as the Golden Bears' second all-time leading scorer and held the school record for goals in a game (4) and in a career (51). She was named the PA AIAW Player of the year as a junior. Congratulations Barbara!!

It has come to our attention that several proposed scholarship applications for the Class of 2024 were omitted from the Newsletter. The Alumni Association works with the senior high administration to determine the recipient of the following scholarships. If you wish to contribute, please do not hesitate to send your gift to the Exeter High School Eagles Alumni Association, attention Donna O'Brien, 200 Elm Street, Reading, PA 19606.

The scholarships are as follows:

Josh Brown Memorial Scholarship
Class of 1966 Merit Scholarship
Class of 1960 David Oberlin Memorial Scholarship
Peg and Conrad (Tiny) Moyer Memorial Scholarship
Don and Helen Thomas Memorial Scholarship
Chick-fil-A Leadership Award
Michael Ciabattoni Memorial Scholarship
David Coldren Memorial Scholarship
George and Thomas Ebright Memorial Scholarship

The Association offers our apologies for the oversight.

Thank you.

Former Elementary School Nurse

April 10, 1938 — February 29, 2024
Beatrice Lou (Ell) Newman, 85, of St Lawrence PA left the Earth on February 29, 2024 in Arbor Terrace Willistown. She was the wife of the late Thomas Newman. Born April 10, 1938 in Kingston, PA To Harry and Sarah (Walp) Ell the second of four children (Ralph, David and Gladys). Bea graduated from Dallas High School, and continued her education at the Nesbitt School of Nursing in Wilkes Barre, PA, becoming an RN in the late 1950s. She put her career on hold to raise her four boys, then returned to the medical field as a school nurse, initially for Exeter Township School District, then for many years for Reading School District. During this time, Bea earned her BS in education from Millersville University. Bea loved children and animals, she will be dearly missed by her family and friends.
Bea is survived by her sons, Thomas C., husband of BJ, Paul H., and Jeffrey F., husband of Chrissy, her grandsons Austin M., husband of Natasha, Jacob P., husband of Eryn, and Benjamin T., husband of Natalie, and her beloved dog Marley. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her son Barry Jon.
Visitation with family and friends will be held on Thursday, March 7, 2024 from 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm, with services beginning at 3:00 pm at Lutz Funeral Home, Inc. 2100 Perkiomen Avenue Reading PA 19606. Interment will be held privately at Forest Hills Memorial Park, Reading PA. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Animal Rescue League, 58 Kennel Rd, Birdsboro, PA 19508. Lutz Funeral Home, Inc. is in charge of arrangements. For online condolences, please visit www.LutzFuneralHome.com

Class of 1965
Terry Manwiller Obituary
Terry Lee Manwiller, 76, passed away on Sunday, January 21, 2024 at the Reading Hospital.

Funeral Service and Interment were private.