10/3/2014
John Elam Petersheim,78, of Paradise, PA, went to be with his Lord and Saviour on Friday, October 3rd, 2014, surrounded by family, after battling Alzheimer’s disease for the past six years. Born in Leacock Township, he was the son of the late Jacob Petersheim and Sallie Stoltzfus Petersheim Wagler and step-son of the late Solomon Wagler. Elam was the loving husband of Alta Raber Petersheim, and they celebrated their 19th anniversary this August. He loved his Bluegrass music and special times with his grandchildren. He was a painter for 40 years, and he also served in the United States Army in Korea from 1960-1962. Elam was a member of the Worship Center in Lancaster.
Surviving in addition to his wife are: a daughter, Cynyth Petersheim wife of Chris Muvilhill, Phoenixville; sons, Charles Petersheim, Eldred, NY, Steve Petersheim, Paradise; step-daughters, Brenda Glinatsis, Nokomis, FL, Kristan wife of Chris Thostenson, Sarasota, FL; step-son, Paul Keim, Sarasota, FL; ten grandchildren; five siblings, Mary Smucker, Sarasota, FL, Amanda wife of Amos Lantz, Gap, Fannie wife of John Fisher, Mountville, Andy husband of Betty Petersheim, Guatemala, Jake Petersheim, Lancaster; brother-in-law, Amos husband of Rebecca Smoker, Intercourse. Preceding him in death are his sister, Lydia Smoker and his brother-in-law, Reuben Smucker.
Family and friends are respectfully invited to attend Elam’s funeral service at the Worship Center, 2384 New Holland Pike, Lancaster, PA, on Thursday, October 9th, 2014 at 11:00 a.m.
There will be a viewing at the Furman Home for Funerals, 59 West Main Street, Leola, PA, from 6-8 p.m. on Wednesday, October 8th, 2014 and 10-11 a.m. Thursday at the Worship Center.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Worship Center, Hospice & Community Care, PO Box 4125, Lancaster, PA 17604-4125 or the Alzheimer's Association 2595 Interstate Drive, Suite 100, Harrisburg, PA 17110.