Gerald R. Melcher

Gerald R. “Jerry” Melcher, 71, Barto, died Aug. 3, 2008, in his residence.

He was the husband of Mary Ann (Benfield) Melcher.

Born in Barto, he was a son of the late Edwin and Kathryn (Miller) Melcher.

He retired from Most Blessed Sacrament Roman Catholic Church, Bally, in 2001, where he had been employed since 1987 as a custodian. Prior to that he was employed by Schaeffer Floor Covering, Boyertown.

He enjoyed a lifelong passion for woodworking.

Surviving with his wife of 50 years are a daughter, Cynthia, wife of Michael Repko, Boyertown; and a son, Kenneth, and wife, Angela Melcher, Raleigh, N.C.

Also surviving are four grandchildren: Matthew Repko, and wife, Crystal, Sinking Spring; Nathan Repko, and wife, Beth Ann, Reading; Melia Repko-Erwin, wife of Jared Erwin, Denver; and Kristen Melcher, Raleigh, N.C.; along with a great-grandson, Anthony Repko, Reading.

He is also survived by his two brothers, Joseph B., and wife, Anna Mae Melcher, Bally; and Martin, and wife, Shirley Melcher, Boyertown; and four sisters: Eleanor Girodo, Alabama; Mary Ann Blankenbiller, Barto; Pauline Richard, Delaware; and Amelia Eddinger, wife of Carl, Bally; in addition to his lifetime friend, Carl Schott, and wife Barbara, Bally.

A Memorial Mass will be celebrated Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. in Most Blessed Sacrament RC Church, 610 Pine St., Bally, PA 19503, with the Rev. Msgr. Edward J. Coyle officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Friends may call Wednesday, 9:30 to 10:15 a.m. in the church.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in his memory to Most Blessed Sacrament RC Church Renovations Memorial Fund at the above address. Catagnus Funeral Home & Cremation Center, 1020 E. Philadelphia Ave., Gilbertsville, is in charge of arrangements.