Earl H. Walbert

Earl H. Walbert
Earl H. Walbert, 80, of Mertztown died Wednesday, March 21, 2007 in his residence. He was the husband of his late beloved wife Jean S. (Schaeffer) Walbert who died in July 2004. Earl was employed by his family owned business, Walbert Lumber, until 1972 when at that time he assumed ownership and successfully ran the Walbert Lumber Company, which was one of the oldest businesses in Berks County until his retirement in 2002. He also was the former tax collector for Longswamp Township for over 20 years. Born in Topton, he was the son of the late Earl A. and Katie M. (Fronhiser) Walbert. He was lifelong member of Longswamp United Church of Christ, Mertztown. Earl was a 1945 graduate of Emmaus High School and president of his class. He was an air force veteran at the end of World War II serving mostly in Alaska as an aerial photographer and gunner until the late 1940s. In 1954 Earl also was past post commander of the Ray A. Masters American Legion Post Number 217, Topton. But, beyond all his accomplishments, civic and business, Earl was best known for his sense of humor and his kind, giving personality. Survivors: Sons, Jeffrey E. of Allentown, Steve G. and his wife Rita in Emmaus; sister, Rachel, wife of Alfred Grim of Bowers; two grandsons, Kyle and Matthew. Earl was predeceased by a brother Woodrow. Services: 9:30 a.m. Saturday, March 24, 2007 in the church. No calling hours. Military honors and interment will conclude services in the church cemetery. Arrangements, Schmoyer Funeral Home, Breinigsville. Contributions: In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the church, 200 Clay Rd, Mertztown, 19539.