Sheldon C. Rissinger

Sheldon C. Rissinger, 91, formerly of Robesonia, passed away peacefully on Sunday, February 15, 2026, at Stoneridge Poplar Run Retirement Living in Myerstown. Born on Christmas Eve in Fredericksburg, Lebanon County, Sheldon entered the world on a night filled with light and promise - a fitting beginning for a man whose life would reflect both. He was a son of the late Marvin Z. and Faye E. (Rank) Rissinger, and the devoted husband of the late Ruth Ann (Watson) Rissinger, with whom he shared nearly 37 years of love, partnership, and steadfast devotion.

Education became both his calling and his legacy. A graduate of Bethel High School and East Stroudsburg Teachers College, Sheldon dedicated more than two decades to teaching mathematics in the Northern Lebanon and Conrad Weiser School Districts. Generations of students learned not only numbers and equations from Mr. Rissinger, but also discipline, integrity, and the quiet confidence of a teacher who believed in them.

Before shaping young minds in the classroom, Sheldon served his country proudly in the United States Air Force during the Korean Conflict as a Radio Intercept Operator. His service reflected a lifelong sense of duty and commitment that defined him in every role he held.

Sheldon embraced life with enthusiasm and remarkable energy. A talented athlete, he enjoyed golf, bowling, and baseball, and was even scouted by the Chicago White Sox - a testament to his skill on the diamond. His love of sports extended to coaching basketball at Northern Lebanon and bowling and JV baseball at Conrad Weiser, where he encouraged teamwork and perseverance in his players.

Music, too, held a special place in his heart. As a longtime member of the Conrad Weiser "76ers" musical group and a faithful choir member at Trinity Lutheran Church in Robesonia, Sheldon found joy in harmony - both musical and spiritual.

His commitment to faith and fraternity enriched his life and the lives of others. He was a member of Williamson Lodge No. 307 F&AM, the Reading Consistory, the Rajah Shrine and their Chanters, the Patriotic Order Sons of America, the Golden Eagles, and People Over 50. Through these organizations, Sheldon built lasting friendships and quietly gave back to the community he loved.

Yet for all his accomplishments, nothing meant more to Sheldon than family. He cherished every moment spent with his six children: Vicki L. Pantelone of Harbert, MI; Gregory S. Rissinger (Holly Troutman) of Waterloo, NY; Shelli J. Rissinger (Scott Walters) of Lebanon; Traci L. Light (Dale) of Myerstown; Michael S. Rissinger (Lisa) of Jessup; and Ellen F. Rissinger of Robesonia. He was a proud grandfather to ten grandchildren and four great-grandchildren, delighting in their achievements and milestones. He is also survived by his sister, Emily Weaver (Carl) of Bethel.

In addition to his parents and beloved wife, he was predeceased by his longtime companion, Betty Shultz.

Sheldon's life - born on a holy night - was marked by steady light: service to his country, devotion to education, faith in God, commitment to community, and deep love for family. Those who knew him will remember his strength, his talents, and the example he quietly set for others to follow.

Sheldon's visitation will be held on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at Trinity Lutheran Church, 108 S. Robeson Street, Robesonia from 9:00-10:45 a.m. A Masonic Service conducted by Williamson Lodge No. 307 F&AM will begin at 10:45 a.m., followed by his Celebration of Life Service at 11:00 a.m., with Pastor Jennifer Dee officiating. Burial with Military Honors, rendered by the US Air Force, will follow the Service in Heidelberg Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Sheldon's memory may be made to Shriners Hospitals for Children, c/o The Rajah Shrine, P.O. Box 40, Blandon, PA 19510. The Klee Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc., Shillington, PA, is honored to be assisting the Rissinger family. www.kleefuneralhome.com