Donald S. "Pickle" Ziegler

Donald S. “Pickle” Ziegler, 99, of Pine Grove, passed away peacefully at his residence on July 8th, surrounded by his loved ones.

Born on February 17, 1927, in Friedensburg, he was the son of the late Riland and Laura (Nunemacher) Ziegler.

Pickle was preceded in death by his beloved wife of many years, Laura L. (Kull) Ziegler, who passed away on January 31, 2006. In addition to his wife and parents, he was also preceded in death by his sister, Evelyn Heffner.

Following his graduation from Cressona High School with the Class of 1944, Pickle served honorably in the United States Army during the Korean War. In recognition of his military service, he was awarded the National Defense Service Medal.

He was a devoted member of St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church in Friedensburg, where he faithfully served on the cemetery committee for many years.

He was a member of the American Legion in Cressona, the Friedensburg Gun Club, the Friedensburg Fire Company, and a proud 70-year member of Cressona Lodge No. 222. Throughout his life, he remained committed to the organizations and community that meant so much to him.

Pickle was a skilled union carpenter before becoming self-employed, earning the respect of those who knew him for his strong work ethic, exceptional craftsmanship, and willingness to lend a helping hand.

Outside of work, Pickle found great joy on his farm and in the outdoors. He had a lifelong love of tractors, especially restoring old tractors. He was a hunter, and in his later years, he enjoyed driving his buggy around the farm, taking in the countryside he loved. He also looked forward to the daily visits from his favorite caretaker, Donna, whose companionship and kindness brought him much happiness and comfort.

He is survived by his devoted godson and caretaker, Donald Seifert and his wife, Dawn; his sister, Darlene Joyner; as well as several nieces, nephews, extended family members, and many friends who will cherish his memory and remember him for his quiet strength, generous spirit, and love of family, faith, and country life.

A Celebration of Life Funeral Service will be held on Monday, July 13th at Ebling-Stabingas Funeral Home, Cressona, at 1 PM. A viewing will be held from 11:30 AM until the time of service at the funeral home.

Interment will be held at St. John's Union Cemetery, Friedensburg, at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family prefers memorial contributions be made to Cressona Masonic Hall Association, PO Box 122, Cressona PA 17929.

Ebling-Stabingas Funeral Home, Cressona, has been entrusted with the arrangements.