Robert S. Eshelman

Robert S. "Bob" Eshelman, 90, of Pleasant View Retirement Community, Manheim, died peacefully surrounded by his family on Thursday, September 15, 2011 at Hospice of Lancaster County, Mount Joy. Born in Mount Joy, he was the son of the late Joseph and Mary Snavely Eshelman. He was the loving husband of Grace L. "Maggie" Eshelman and they would have observed their 70th wedding anniversary on January 1, 2012. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II and received the Bronze Star for Meritorious Service. Bob graduated from Millersville State College with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Elementary Education. He received his Master's Degree and his Administrative Certificates from Temple University in 1951. Bob began his teaching career at the Manheim Elementary School in 1946 and subsequently served as Principal at both the Stiegel and H.C. Burgard Elementary Schools. He was promoted to Elementary Supervisor and his responsibilities included closing some one-room schools, equipping the new elementary schools that were being constructed; and developing new programs for Mastersonville, White Oak, Fairland and Sporting Hill schools. In 1970 he was promoted to Administrative Assistant to the Superintendent and was in charge of enhancement of revenues, costs analysis and joint purchasing of supplies by the entire I.U.13. Kindergarten, special education and gifted classes were included in the program. In 1983, Bob retired from the Manheim Central School District after serving 36 years in education. The H.C. Burgard Elementary School library was named the Robert S. Eshelman Library in his honor. Two years following his retirement a vacancy occurred on the Manheim Central School Board and he was elected to that board. Bob was a member of St. Paul's United Church of Christ, Manheim, and in his early years was a Sunday school teacher. His memberships included the Manheim Lions Club and the Manheim Masonic Lodge. Bob served on the Manheim Water and Sewer Authority and was Chairman in 1982. Earlier in his life he received the Manheim Jaycees award for Outstanding Accomplishments and Community Service. Surviving in addition to his wife, are two sons: Ronald C. husband of Sharon Kapphan Eshelman of Peoria, Az., John D. husband of Joanne Saulina Eshelman of Manheim, four grandchildren, and six great grandchildren. Preceding him in death are two brothers and one sister. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend his funeral service at St. Paul's United Church of Christ, 50 North Main Street, Manheim, on Tuesday September 20, 2011 at 2:00 PM with Pastor R. Eugene Hill officiating. Interment is in Landis Valley Mennonite Cemetery. There will be a viewing at the Buch Funeral Home, 21 Market Square, Manheim on Monday evening from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM with additional viewing at the church on Tuesday afternoon from 1:00 PM until the time of the service. Those desiring may send contributions in Bob's memory to Manheim Central Student Loan Fund C/O Don Shelly, Treasurer 25 North Laurel Street, Manheim, PA 17545