Thelma Jean Shenk

Thelma Jean Shenk, 87, of Manheim, died following a brief illness on Monday, November 17, 2014 at the Heart of Lancaster Regional Medical Center, Lititz. Born in Rapho Township, she was the daughter of the late Arthur Bingeman and Eva Kline Bingeman Harding. Thelma was the loving wife of the late Howard G. Shenk who died in June of 2002. In 1989 she retired after working for more than 20 years at the former Donegal Industries, Mount Joy; previously she worked as a cook for 11 years at the Manheim Central Junior High School Cafeteria. In her early years she was employed at the former Noggles Garment Factory, Manheim. She was an active and faithful member of the East Fairview Church of the Brethren, Manheim; where she helped with the monthly newsletter, participated in Brethren relief work, and was a part of the women’s sewing circle. Thelma volunteered for the Mennonite Central Committee in Akron, the Ladies Auxiliary at Pleasant View Retirement Community, and helped with many sewing projects for the Lancaster General Hospital Auxiliary. She was a member of the Manheim Historical Society, Stiegel Roses Senior Citizens Group, Manheim, and a life member of the Manheim VFW Auxiliary. For many years she volunteered with the Mastersonville Fire Company Auxiliary helping with their food stand at local auctions. Thelma loved sewing, embroidery, and flower gardening, and won many ribbons and awards at the Manheim Farm Show throughout the years. Thelma and her husband Howard participated in the Lancaster Senior Games for many years; she also enjoyed bowling and participating in competitive leagues with her husband. She always loved to travel to the family cabin in Potter County. Thelma’s life-long passion was her family and her heart was filled with joy when she could have the family at her home and provide loving hospitality to all. She will miss her Bichon Poodle named “Spanky” that was her constant companion throughout the years.

Surviving are two daughters: Sandra Jean wife of Jacob H. Harnish, Sharon Kay wife of Steven R. Ecenrode all of Manheim, four grandchildren: Sheila wife of Gregg Smith, Heather wife of Arthur Hostetter, Shannon wife of Herbert Mauzy, Shane husband of Kristyn Ecenrode, eight great grandchildren: Nia, Christian, Abigail, Hannah, Caleb, Jared, Brady, Camryn, a brother, Jay husband of Yvonne Bingeman of Manheim, three sisters: Eva Nolt, Floy Fansler, and Ethel wife of Fred Gordon all of Manheim. Preceding her in death is a granddaughter, Jessica Harnish, two brothers: Victor and Arthur Bingeman, and a sister, Minerva McKinney.

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Thelma’s funeral service at the East Fairview Church of the Brethren, 1187 Fairview Road, Manheim, on Saturday, November 22, 2014 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 Chiques Church of the Brethren Cemetery, Rapho Township.

In lieu of flowers contributions may be sent in Thelma’s memory to: Manheim Central Food Pantry c/o Salem UMC, 140 North Penn Street, Manheim, PA 17545.