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Ronald R. Heiber, 70, of Myerstown, PA passed away Thursday, November 14, 2019 at Good Samaritan Hospital, Lebanon, PA.
Born December 16, 1948 in Ashland the son of the late Raymond and Violet (Dietz) Heiber.
Ronald graduated from Ashland Area High School. He worked as an electrician for PPL for 27 years. Surviving are his wife: Charlotte (Klinger) Heiber of Myerstown. Son: Ronald Heiber Jr. of Myerstown. Daughter: Melissa Radell of Las Vegas, NV. Brother: Raymond husband of Charlotte Heiber of Macungie.
Funeral service will be held 11:00 AM Tuesday, November 19, 2019 at the Kull-Heizenroth Funeral Home, Ashland with Rev. Dana Heckman-Beil officiating. Interment in Christ Church Cemetery, Ft. Springs. Viewing 9:30-11:00 AM Tuesday, November 19 at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the American Cancer Society
www.donate3.cancer.org or to your favorite charity.
Kull-Heizenroth Funeral Home Inc., Ashland is in charge of the arrangements. Charles Heizenroth III, Supervisor.
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James Joseph Barrett, II (Jim/”JB”) died peacefully at his home in Eagle Rock on November 14, 2019 after a brief battle with cholangiocarcinoma. Born March 11, 1947 in Ashland, PA, he was the son of the late James J. and Mary I. (Daley) Barrett. He was preceded in death by a brother, John, in childhood.
Jim is survived by his loving wife, Jessica (Powers) Barrett; two sons, James and wife Kim, and Jon and wife Miranda, and six grandchildren: Daley, Jack, Sean, Lochlan, Hatcher and Riggs Barrett, all of Greenville, SC. Also surviving are two brothers; Edward and wife Susan, of Wyomissing, PA; Joseph and wife Cathy, of Camp Hill, PA; and two sisters; Mary and husband Michael Gilbert, of Elizabeth City, NC, and Catherine Coyne, of Ashland, PA. Jim’s tight-knit extended family includes 11 nieces and nephews and their families: Barbara Gilbert, Laura Wesolowski, David Gilbert, Brian Barrett, Kelly Barrett, Kevin Barrett, TJ Barrett, Patrick Barrett, Maureen Mieczkowski, Megan Uram, and Michael Coyne; multiple cousins; and dear friend Michael Oakely and wife Nancy, of Long Island, NY.
Following graduation from Ashland Area High School, Jim was stationed in Vietnam with the Army’s 1st Infantry 196th C Company, 2nd Battalion Americal Division. He served from August 1966 to January 1969, suffering life-threatening injuries in February 1968 that resulted in months of hospitalization. Jim overcame these obstacles and went on to live a full life. He was unassuming and never called attention to his decorated veteran status, yet his bravery and service earned him many honors: National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Combat Infantry Badge, Sharpshooter Rifle M14, and a Purple Heart.
After his military service, Jim attended Kraft School of Tailoring in Philadelphia and worked at Daley’s Clothing Store in Ashland. He then worked for Paul’s Chevrolet in Ashland until his retirement in 2006.
A consummate salesman, Jim had the unique ability to talk to anyone about any topic. He was known to spin a tale, yet also displayed genuine interest in other people and their stories. The scores of visitors he received during his final weeks are testament to his character and enduring connections. Jim’s positive attitude and sense of humor were always on full display. No one was safe from his friendly teasing; being called “hot shot” was a sure sign you were his next target. Jim had a special way of engaging with and entertaining the youngest family members. He will be remembered as the uncle with the funny jokes and silly stories.
In retirement, Jim became an avid golfer and self-taught handyman. He took on many home remodeling projects and was quick to help a friend in need. Above all, Jim was a proud and devoted PopPop to his grandchildren. He hosted Christmas mornings at his home and made frequent visits to South Carolina, announcing his arrival with a train whistle call that would bring the kids running. This summer, he accompanied his 3 oldest grandchildren on the final leg of their mission to visit all 50 states –the culmination of many memorable vacations together.
Viewing will be held at St. Charles Borromeo Church, 1118 Walnut St. Ashland, PA from 3-8pm on Friday, November 22. The family will also accept visitors on Saturday, November 23, from 8:30-9:45am at St. Charles Borromeo Parish in Ashland. A funeral mass will be held at 10 AM.
Jim will ultimately be laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery - the final honor for a true hero, both to his country and to all those who had the privilege of knowing and loving him.
Donations may be made to American Legion Post 434, 505 Center St, Ashland, PA, 17921.
Kull-Heizenroth Funeral Home, Ashland, PA is in charge of arrangements.
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