Gerald Lewis Deibler

Born in Shamokin on February 14, 1945 to James and Ruth, Jerry Deibler grew up hunting, fishing and getting into trouble with his younger brother Jimmy.  Throughout his life, Jerry was known as a hard worker, getting his start as a gas station attendant and setting pins at a bowling alley.   After graduating from Shamokin High School, Jerry entered the Navy as a way to “get out of Shamokin.”  He served in the military both as active duty and in the reserves for six years, stationed in San Diego, Spain (where the only Spanish words he learned were Una Cerveza mas, por favor) and Vietnam.  He was instrumental in rescuing a downed Air Force pilot in Vietnam, shot at by the Vietcong during the mission.  While on leave, he reconnected with a high school classmate, Sharlee Miller, even though they ran in different social circles in high school.   He was Danny Zuko to her Sandy.  Love blossomed between them, eventually marrying in May 1969.   To help pay for the wedding and their first home, Jerry worked as a civilian contractor for the military, stationed in Greenland for 2 years.  Shar and Jerry had two daughters, Steph Deibler and Mindy Davis, who they supported in their many activities, including a yearly piano recital on Super Bowl Sunday that he remained bitter about for decades.  When Steph was 12, Jerry started the Exeter Girls Softball team, naming the first team the Stingers.  He was the team’s first coach and learned quickly how easily girls cried.   He continued coaching for many years for the Stingers and then for Arnold’s Drilling.  In his professional life, Jerry worked for Conestoga Telephone for over 40 years, ending his career as a supervisor.  Jerry was overjoyed when his grandchildren, Lauren Grace and Tyler Davis, were born; he loved spending time with them.  He also loved his two dogs, Bubba and Maggie, as well as his fur grandbabies Murphy, Pepper and especially Coco.  In retirement, he loved playing golf throughout Berks County, including his “old man league” at the Manor Golf Club.  He also enjoyed golf trips to Myrtle Beach and Williamsburg.   He was a voracious reader who loved watching the Hallmark Channel, which didn’t at all fit with his personality.   Although he could be a grumpy old man on the outside, he had a giving heart and was a loyal friend who would help anyone in need.  Jerry died in his sleep on April 6, only 3 months after his wife, Shar passed away, after spending 54 years together.  

A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Saturday, April 20 at 2:00 pm at the Exeter Bible Fellowship Church.  Please note – the family will not be receiving visitors before the service.

Just like his wife, Jerry did not want flowers at his memorial service and would not have wanted anyone to spend money on his behalf.  However, if people are so inclined, they can donate to a charity of their choice.   Bean Funeral Homes & Crematory, 6 Fairlane Road, Exeter Township is in charge of arrangements and online condolences may be made at www.beanfuneralhomes.com