Jean Weddle Weddle Rietmulder

Jean was born on August 11, 1924 in Brooklyn, NY, the daughter of Charles Edward Weddle and Ethel Brown Weddle. She attended Mepham High School, Bellmore, NY and graduated from Barnard College, receiving a degree in Economics and Political Science. In 1950 she married James Rietmulder whom she had met in Manhattan at the Association Press where they both worked.

They began raising their family in Long Island, NY and moved to Lewisberry, PA in 1964. Her children were Jean’s priority. She also contributed many hours to church activities, scouting, and organizing neighborhood events and activities for youth. She continued her education at Hofstra University, working towards a Master’s Degree in Elementary Education.

In 1965, Jean wrote a book, “The Tired Adult’s Guide to Backyard Fun with Kids.” After Jim passed away in 1972, Jean finished raising her family of 6 children, and began to work part-time away from home. She loved working as a tax preparer for H&R Block, and later, took on the position of Postmaster in Lewisberry. After retiring from the Postal Service, Jean continued to work into her early 80’s as an aide at Messiah Village, caring for and giving comfort to a resident. She was a longtime member of Lewisberry United Methodist Church.

Jean loved hosting large dinners for family and friends where her wit and love were always displayed. She also enjoyed bargain hunting at flea markets and yard sales, riding her moped, and spending time at the beach or lake. In later years, nothing made Jean happier than baby-sitting her grandchildren.

In addition to her parents, husband Jim, and brothers Jack, Dick, and Bob, Jean was preceded in death by her granddaughter, Jenna Rietmulder. She is survived by her 6 children, Joy Dorman (Gary) of Washington DC, Jill Frank (Lawrence) of Dillsburg, James Rietmulder (Beth Stone) of Lewisberry, Jay Rietmulder (Holli) of Prior Lake, MN, Jon Rietmulder (Gayle) of Accokeek, MD, and Joseph Rietmulder (Deb) of Lewisberry; 8 grandchildren Jessica Brubaker, Benjamin Brubaker, Alyssa Kaercher, Julia James, Jancey Rietmulder-Stone, Michael Rietmulder, Steven Rietmulder and Tori Rietmulder; 4 great grandchildren Reese and Branson Kaercher, Henry and Lucas Brubaker.

A memorial service will be held at 6:00 pm Thursday, September 1, 2016 at Lewisberry United Methodist Church, preceded by a visitation beginning at 5:00 pm.

Donations can be made to the Lewisberry United Methodist Church, 309 Market Street, Lewisberry, PA 17339.