Arlene E. Rickenbach

Arlene Esther Rickenbach, 100, of Hamburg, passed away at the home of her daughter Kay on Thursday, December 21, 2023. She was born in Shartlesville to Howard and Ida (Lesher) Degler on the first day of summer, June 21, 1923; and notably passed away on the first day of winter. Arlene's husband, Earl F. (Ricky) Rickenbach preceded her in death on May 9, 1998. Arlene was a bookkeeper and secretary of Degler Chevrolet, Inc.; a business started by her father Howard in 1925. Her brother Raymond and nephew Lee ran the business after Howard's passing. Arlene was a math wiz and always willing to tally scores at card games. She enjoyed all games and often taught new ones to her family. Arlene was quite a seamstress and willing to fix or redo anything brought to her. She completed many quilts...her sewing machine got lots of use. Arlene enjoyed traveling and her many friends. Arlene is survived by her daughters: Susan Jean Spayd, State College; and Kay Louise Fritz, and her husband Byron A. Fritz, Hamburg; grandchildren: James F. Spayd, III and Pamela R. Shellenberger, State College; Jennifer Matezig, East Earl; Julia K. Hoffman, Shoemakersville; and Bethany A. Rodenroth, Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan; eleven great-grandchildren: and many nieces and nephews. She was sadly predeceased by her daughter: Carol A. Martin; and her dear grandson: Matthew B. Fritz. Arlene was also predeceased by all her siblings, brothers: Burton, Stanley, Arthur, Earl and Raymond Degler; and sisters: Mazie (Degler) Keeney and Miriam (Degler) Miller. Services will be held on Thursday, December 28, 2023 at 12:00 noon from First United Church of Christ, 76 S. Third Street, Hamburg, PA 19526. Burial will follow in St. Michael's Cemetery, Tilden Twp. A viewing will be held in the church Thursday 11:00 to 12:00 noon. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent to First United Church of Christ, at the above address; Union Fire Company No.1 of Hamburg, P.O. Box 255, Hamburg, PA 19526; or Hamburg Public Library, 35 N. Third Street, Hamburg, PA 19526. Leibensperger Funeral Homes, Inc., Hamburg is in charge of arrangements. For online condolences, please visit, www.leibenspergerfuneralhomes.com.