Jerry Wilson Zettle

Jerry W. Zettle, age 86, of Port Royal, PA, passed away on March 14 at Messiah Lifeways in Mechanicsburg, PA. Jerry was born on April 7, 1938 in Lewistown PA, son of Sara Mae Rice and Vernon C. Zettle.

Jerry graduated from Tuscarora Valley High School in 1956 and from Penn State University in 1962. He worked for many years at Jackson Manufacturing Company in Harrisburg, progressing from Plant Superintendent to President during his career there. Through the years he was active in several organizations, including the Society of Manufacturing Engineers, the Kiwanis organization, Monaghan Township Volunteer Fire Company, and the Port Royal Presbyterian Church. He also enjoyed gardening, collecting unique items, traveling, and solving engineering problems in his many building projects. He had a keen sense of humor and was especially talented at engaging in conversation with everyone he met.

Jerry is survived by his wife of 40 years, Judith (Book) Zettle, as well as three daughters, Katharine (Joseph) Bennett, Tracy Donbach (Bob Huff), and Sara (aka “the favorite”) Dittess; grandchildren Tiffany McIlhenny, Ian (Miranda) Bennett, and Addison Bennett, great-grandsons Samuel McIlhenny VI and Jamison Souders, siblings Connie Davis (Pete Witteman),Tess Eichenberger (Anne Geheb), and William Eichenberger along with many cousins, nieces and nephews. He also leaves behind Posey, the adorable and much-loved cat he and Judy rescued.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Sara Mae Rice and Vernon C. Zettle, stepmother Helen Zettle, stepfather Walter Eichenberger, sister Katharine Eichenberger, and grandson Jeffrey Donbach Jr.

The family would like to extend thanks to the staff of Messiah Village and Homeland Hospice for the wonderful, compassionate care extended to Jerry, especially as his health declined.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research (Grand Central Station P.O. Box 4777, New York, NY 10163), The Port Royal Presbyterian Church Eco (316 Main St, Port Royal, PA 17082) or a charity of your choice. Family and friends are invited to celebrate Jerry’s life and share stories at a gathering on Saturday, May 17, from 2-4 p.m. at the American Legion, 29 S Main St., Mifflintown, PA 17059. A private interment will be held at the convenience of the family.