John Gilbert "Gil" Frey

John Gilbert “Gil” Frey, 78, of Manheim, died peacefully surrounded by his family on Saturday, November 12, 2016 at the Lancaster General Hospital. Born in Manheim, he was the son of the late Franklin and Mary Strickler Frey. Gil was the beloved husband of Verdella Morrow Frey and they celebrated 57 years of marriage on September 27th. In his early year he was employed in the scheduling department for the former Raymark Industries, Manheim. He later worked for Transcon Trucking, Camp Hill; following retirement, he was the assistant maintenance superintendent for many years at the Manheim Auto Auction. A veteran, Gil served in the U.S. Navy. He attended Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church, Manheim, was a member of the Manheim Historical Society and a former member of the Penn-Elm Lions Club. He was an avid Philadelphia Eagles and Phillies fan. Gil had a keen interest in landscaping; spending many hours outside his home planting trees, unique bushes and flowers, designing special areas of his property that he took great care and pride in. Gil and Verdella traveled extensively over the years and especially to his favorite beach areas; the Outer Banks, Jeckyll Island and Kiawah Island. Additionally, he loved spending time with his family at Lake Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire. In his early years he loved his fishing, and in his later years he turned to golfing with his friends and family on vacation. Above all Gil treasured the time he spent with his loving wife and family.

Surviving in addition to his wife Verdella is a daughter, Jennifer A. wife of Greg Burkhardt of Millersville, and two grandchildren, Kristyn J. and Shane A. Burkhardt. Preceding him in death are three brothers: Dale F. Frey, Glenn Strickler, Earl Strickler, and three sisters: Gene Wagner, Mary Lou Shenenberger, Gerry Trout.

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Gil’s funeral service at the Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church, 2 South Hazel Street, Manheim, on Saturday, November 19, 2016 at 11:00 AM. There will be a viewing at the church on Saturday morning from 10:00 AM until the time of the service. Interment will be in Manheim Fairview Cemetery, Penn Township. In lieu of flowers contributions may be sent in Gil’s memory to: Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church, 2 South Hazel Street, Manheim, PA 17545, or Paralyzed Veterans of America, Donation Processing Center, 7 Mill Brook Road, Wilton, N.H. 03086.