Gene D. Clauser, 78, Coast Guard vet, long-time Wilbur Chocolate worker, fire police volunteer

Gene D. Clauser, known by many as “Herbie,” 78, of Newmanstown, passed away on Wednesday, Oct. 25, 2017, peacefully with his wife, Susie, and dog, Poncho, by his side at Hershey Medical Center.

Herbie was married to MaryJane “Susie” Clauser on Oct. 13, 1979; they were happily married for 38 years and their love will live on for eternity.

Herbie worked at Wilbur Chocolate in Lititz, for 40 years. He also served in the U.S. Coast Guard for four years, and volunteered for 20 years with the Richland Fire Police. He was a member of the Millcreek Community United Zion Church in Stricklerstown and the Richland American Legion, Post 880.

Surviving, in addition to his wife, are children: Amy Moyer of Ephrata; Michael Clauser and wife, Jerelyn, of Port Charlotte, Fla.; stepsons: Melvin Gettle of Richland; Roy Gettle and wife, Melodee, of Newmanstown; Steven Gettle of Newmanstown; 14 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; sisters: Dorothy Kale of Lebanon; Joanne Stohler of Kleinfeltersville; Ruth Krall and husband, Robert, of Schaefferstown; and a number of nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by a stepson: Robert Gettle; brothers: Charles Strickler, Leon Clauser, Robert Clauser Jr.; and a sister: Thelma Zartman.

Services were held Oct. 31 at Living Stones Christian Fellowship, Newmanstown. Interment with military honors was in Millbach Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Millcreek Community United Zion Church, 203 Stricklerstown Road, Newmanstown, PA 17073; or Hershey Medical Center, Heart & Vascular Unit, 500 University Drive, Hershey, PA 17033.

Clauser Funeral Home, Schaefferstown, was entrusted with the arrangements. Online condolences may be shared at clauserfh.com.