Catherine J. Mentzer

LEBANON Catherine J. Mentzer, 86, formerly of Lebanon, died Monday, January 17, 2011, in Cedar Haven Nursing Home, Lebanon. She was the wife of George S. Mentzer, who died in 2009. Born in Lemoyne on February 19, 1924, she was the daughter of the late William and Gretna Mae Loeb Shay. She was the first of eighteen children and the only one to be raised outside of Philadelphia in Mt. Gretna, and served as a life guard at Mt. Gretna Lake for many years. Catherine was a homemaker but her full time job was taking care of her children. She was a long time active member of the Lebanon Moravian Church but more recently held membership at the Salvation Army, Lebanon. She was a certified nursing assistant and enjoyed playing canasta. Surviving are two sons, George Franklin husband of Suzanne Berger Mentzer of Schaefferstown, and Carl Scott husband of Karen Peters Mentzer of Manheim; a daughter, Kay Jane Mentzer wife of Daniel Knepp of Mechanicsburg; four grandchildren, Lisa, Laura Meghan, Joanna, and Rachel; and one great-granddaughter, Brianna. She was preceded in death by two grandchildren, Timothy and Erin; and a brother, Leroy Mentzer. Graveside services and interment will be held on Saturday at 2 p.m. from the Mt. Annville Cemetery, Rt. 934 N., Annville. No viewing or visitation. Contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 1274, Lebanon, PA 17042, in her memory. Kreamer Funeral Home and Crematory, Annville is in charge of arrangements. www.kreamerfuneralhome.com