Ardell S. (Emerich) Heintzelman

Ardell S. Heintzelman, 86, of Orwigsburg, PA, passed away peacefully at home on January 13, 2026. She was the widow of the late Lawrence W. Heintzelman. Born in Lancaster, PA, Ardell was the daughter of the late Charles R. and Mary L. (Shildneck) Emerich.

Ardell was employed for many years as a sewing machine operator and last worked for Wright’s Knitwear in Auburn, PA, retiring in 1999. Ardell was a former member of Ebenezer U.C.C. Church in New Tripoli, PA, and she also generously volunteered her time helping in the kitchens at both the New Tripoli Fire Company and the Lynnport Fire Company. In a lasting gift to her community, she donated several acres of land to the township to create the walking trail at Ontelaunee Park. She also owned and operated a farm in New Tripoli for many years and took great pride in farming. Ardell enjoyed reading, baking, traveling, and attending the races. She especially loved the springtime, flowers, and cardinals, which brought her much joy.

Survivors include her loving daughter, Sharon L. Miller, at home; sons, Carl W. Heintzelman, at home, and Douglas S. Heintzelman of Tremont, PA; seven grandchildren and six great-grandchildren, who lovingly called her “Nanny”; sisters, JoAnn Delong of Hamburg, PA, and Ruth (Connie) Horst of Florida; brothers, Barry (Yvonne) Emerich of Shartlesville, PA, and Michael Emerich of Reading, PA.

She was predeceased by her son, Lawrence Heintzelman, Jr., and several siblings.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, January 19, 2026, at 11:00 AM in the Nester Funeral Home, 8405 Kings Highway New Tripoli, PA 18066. A calling hour will be held from 10:00 AM until the time of service. Interment will follow in Ebenezer Union Cemetery, New Tripoli. Heidi Lundquist will officiate.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, sent c/o the funeral home. 

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