8/4/2018
Harold M. Ruhl, 85, formerly of Smoketown, passed away Saturday, August 4, 2018 in Lititz. Born in Mount Joy, he was the son of the late Signor Francis and Barbara Miller Ruhl. He was the husband of Rachel Hess Ruhl, and celebrated 65 years of marriage in June.
A graduate of Mount Joy High School where he received an Industrial Arts Award, he also took courses at Penn State University. Over the years, he valued education and took courses in public speaking and agriculture. He was brought up in the family business of Ruhl's Flowers, Mount Joy, and worked for DHIA for two years. He spent most of his adult life as a self-employed florist of Ruhl's Greenhouses in Smoketown.
Harold spent over 40 years as treasurer for Witmer Fire Company. A member of James St. Mennonite Church, Lancaster, he was active in his church and supported mission trips, Youth for Christ and WorldTeam missionaries to Haiti. For over 14 years, Harold volunteered with the Mennonite Resource Center and wove rugs out of old jeans. A softball player for most of his adult life, Harold sponsored Little League teams and Ruhl's Raiders in the New Danville Softball League. He pitched for the Smoketown Oldtimers and loved going to Harrisburg Senators' games. He enjoyed woodworking and made furniture for family over the years. At Brethren Village, he enjoyed Wii Bowling and was part of a championship team. Harold enjoyed the outdoors, travel and puzzles. He loved going to the mountains and watching wildlife.
Harold treasured time spent with his family, friends, and his dogs. He lived a full and satisfying life. He left a legacy of family and friends who respect him for his devotion to his faith and to those around him.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by: children, H. Suzanne wife of Kenneth B. Hess, Barbara J. wife of Mark S. Andrews, Amy L. wife of Brian G. French, H. Michael husband of Alba M. Buck Ruhl; 10 grandchildren; 6 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by: a son, Phillip Signor Ruhl; three brothers, J. Robert, Charles P., and James M. Ruhl.
Funeral services will be held from the Chapel at Brethren Village, 3001 Lititz Pike, Lancaster, on Saturday, August 11that 10 am with interment following in Mellinger Mennonite Cemetery. Friends may call on Friday from 6 to 8 pm and Saturday from 9 to 10 am, all at the chapel. If desired, contributions may be made to Hospice and Community Care, P.O. Box 4125 Lancaster, PA 17604-4125.