Willard Gary Detweiler

Willard "Gary" Detweiler, 70, of Telford, Pennsylvania, went home to be with the Lord on Monday, March 2, 2026, at home surrounded by his family.

He was the beloved husband of Doreen F. (High) Detweiler, with whom he shared 45 years of marriage. Born in Sellersville, Pennsylvania on August 6, 1955, Gary was the son of the late Willard S. Detweiler and the late Dorothy A. (Bishop) Detweiler.

Gary was a 1973 graduate of Souderton Area High School. After high school, he began his working career at Bishop Wood Products, Elroy, PA. He then shared his love of wood working with students when employed as a wood shop instructor at New Life Youth and Family Services, Harleysville. New Life was a private non-profit organization which provided residential, educational, and therapeutic services for at-risk youth, specifically those referred by juvenile probation. He considered his work there more than a job, but also a ministry. Later, he faithfully worked in the maintenance department at Dock Mennonite Academy EC-8 Campus, where his steady presence and willingness to help were appreciated by colleagues and students alike until his retirement in 2020.

He enjoyed helping coach his son's sports teams, playing church softball, crafting custom wood products, and working on projects around the house in his spare time. He enjoyed the outdoors and especially looked forward to an annual family vacation in the mountains of Tioga County, PA going fishing, hiking or just spending quality time with extended family and friends.

A lifetime member of Grace Mennonite Church in Lansdale, Gary devoted himself to his church family. He served in Church Ministry Leadership roles and as a youth group advisor, offering guidance, encouragement, and a patient spirit to all who knew him. Gary's life was grounded in his faith in his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. His faith gave him purpose, peace, comfort and assurance of eternal life.

Gary loved bringing family and friends together. Whether organizing games, hosting gatherings, or simply sharing time with those he loved, he found great joy in fellowship. He was a faithful devoted husband, father, and grandfather who cherished and prioritized spending time with his loved ones. His kindness, patience and integrity were evident in every aspect of his life.

In addition to his wife, Gary is survived by his two sons: Ryan Detweiler and his wife, Jennifer, of Coopersburg, PA; and Kevin Detweiler and his wife, Reba, of Telford, PA; five cherished grandsons Nolan, Shane, Austin, Eli, and Grayson; and his sister, Gail Krady and her husband, Brent, of Telford, PA.

Family and friends are invited to attend a celebration of Gary's life which will be held at Grace Mennonite Church, 630 York Avenue, Lansdale, PA., on Saturday, April 11, 2026. Visitation will be from 1:30pm - 3:15pm with the celebration of life service beginning at 3:30pm.

A private inurnment will take place at West Swamp Mennonite Cemetery in Quakertown.

Memorial contributions may be made in Gary's memory to Upward Flag Football Memo: Scholarship mailed to Grace Mennonite Church, 630 York Avenue, Lansdale, PA 19446 or Camp Men-O-Lan Memo: Camper Scholarships 1415 Doerr Rd, Quakertown, PA 18951.

Arrangements are by Anders-Detweiler Funeral Home & Crematory, 130 East Broad Street, Souderton, PA 18964. Online condolences may be offered at www.andersfh.com.