Lawrence Hirneisen

Lawrence J. Hirneisen, 98 years young, of Sinking Spring, passed away in the arms of his loving Lord and Savior on Tuesday, June 15, 2010 at 9:20 a.m. in his residence under hospice care.

Born in Alleghenyville, he was the first born son of the late Claude and Mabel (Gebhart) Hirneisen. His is survived by his second wife, Jane L. (Emerich) Hirneisen, who he married on December 22, 1996 and shared 14 wonderful years of marriage. His first wife, L. Esther (Schonour) Hirneisen, passed away on June 22, 1996, after 64 special years together.

He worked as a knitter for Berkshire Knitting Mills for 32 years, retiring in 1976. He owned his own farm, and worked as a dairy farmer for 20 years, and worked as a school bus driver for Cocalico School District for 13 years.

He was well known and regarded for his wood working crafts, most recently his inland miniature crosses which he gave as handouts.

He was a member of Reamstown Church of God, the Sinking Spring Historical Society, and past member of the Berks County Crafters Guild.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by sons: Richard N., husband of Jeanne Hirneisen of Davenport, FL, Stewart L. of Cedar Top, Clifford G., husband of Debbie Hirneisen of Pennside, Merlin J., husband of Marlene of Reinholds, Kenneth J. Sr., husband of Dorthy of Ontelaunee Twp., and Barry C., Hirneisen, partner of James Lawyer Sr. of Sanford, FL.

There are also 21 grandchildren, 32 great grandchildren, and 11 great great grandchildren.

He is also survived by a sister: June V. (Hirneisen) Smith of West Lawn, and several nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, Memorial Contributions may be made to the Reamstown Church of God Building Fund, PO Box 98, Stevens, PA 17578.