J. Harold Esbenshade

J. Harold Esbenshade, 79, formerly of Rapho Township, went to be with his Lord and Savior on Saturday morning June 28, 2014 at Lancaster General Hospital. Born in Manheim Township he was the loving husband of Ruby (Yoder) Esbenshade, and they would have celebrated their 57th anniversary on October 3. He was the son of the late H. Clay and Ruth (Yocum) Esbenshade. He attended Manheim Twp. High School and Eastern Mennonite College and was a member of Neffsville Mennonite Church. Harold was a self-employed farmer and businessman.
Harold and Ruby began their married lives by serving two years of 1-W alternative voluntary service in Denver, CO. After returning from Colorado Harold began farming cattle, crops, and poultry on Esbenshade road in Manheim, PA. He was involved in many other business, social, and community endeavors over the years. He was instrumental in developing both Shady Brae Farms and Rapho Industrial Park. He served on various boards throughout his life, most recently as President of the board at Black Rock Retreat in Quarryville.

In addition to his wife, Harold is survived by three children: Jay H, husband of Rita (Witmer) Esbenshade of Salem, OH, Denise L. wife of Jerry Wenger of Bird In Hand, Theodore L. (Ted) husband of Mary (Fox) Esbenshade of Marietta; 12 grandchildren; and 3 brothers, Glenn husband of Rachael Esbenshade of Lititz, Carl husband of Bonnie Esbenshade of Neffsville, and Kenneth husband of Betty Esbenshade of Raleigh NC. He was preceded in death by a sister Rhoda E. Kilheffer.

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend his funeral service at the Neffsville Mennonite Church, 2371 Lititz Pike, Lancaster, PA on Thursday July 3, 2014 at 10:00 AM. Interment will be at The Landis Valley Mennonite Cemetery following the service. There will be a public viewing at the church on Wednesday evening from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM and also on Thursday at the church from 9:00 AM until the time of the service. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Harold’s memory may be sent to Black Rock Retreat, Oakwood Chapel Building Fund, 1345 Kirkwood Pike, Quarryville, PA 17566.