Elda Hassel

Elda M. (nee Merkel) Hassel, 83, of Leesport, formerly of Reading, passed away on Friday, January 22, 2010 at St. Joseph's Medical Center, Bern Twp., where she had been a patient for several hours.

Born in Virginville, she was a daughter of the late Howard Merkel and Annie (Miller) Merkel, and widow of George W. Hassel, who passed away on January 23, 1978.

She worked as a sewing machine operator for Ship & Shore in Reading for 40 years, retiring in 1987.

She is survived by her son: Dr. Jeffrey L. Hassel, husband of Anne J. Hassel of Wyomissing.

There are also four grandchildren, three step grandchildren, and three great grandchildren.

She is also survived by her sister: Naomi (Merkel) Stern of Topton.

In lieu of flowers, Memorial Contributions may be made to Friends of the Reading Hospital & Medical Center, P.O. Box 16052, Reading, PA 19612.