Donald M. Berstler, 68, of Hyde Park, Muhlenberg Twp., passed away on Wednesday, September 10, 2014 in the Reading Hospital with his family by his side. He was the husband of Paula J. (Wagaman) Berstler. They were married on April 9, 1983 and celebrated 31 years of marriage.
Born in West Reading, he was the son of Ruth A. (Minnich) Berstler, Shoemakersville; and the late Kenneth M. Berstler. He was a 1964 graduate of Schuylkill Valley High School. Donald worked for thirty-four years as a railroad track maintenance foreman, first for Reading Company, then Conrail, and last for Norfolk Southern, until retiring August 1, 2006. He was an active member of One United Church of Christ, Kenhorst, where he was a member of the choir, member of the dart league, and active in the candy making at church. Donald enjoyed deep-sea fishing, traveling which included overseas, and gardening. He loved his dogs, Maggie and Holly; and especially loved his wife and family. Donald was always there to help anyone with anything.
Surviving in addition to his wife and mother are two daughters: Lisa M. (Berstler) Balthaser, Philadelphia; and Kim M. (Berstler), wife of David Doxie, Wernersville; three granddaughters: Kristy, wife of Ryan Martin, Jessica Reppert, and Sarah Doxie; and two great-grandchildren: Ella and Kenzie Martin. Donald is also survived by two brothers: Roy M. Berstler, and his wife Darlene, Hamburg; and David C. Berstler, and his wife Diana, Riverview Park; one sister: Diane E. (Berstler) Spayd, companion of Jay Castellucci, Sinking Spring; and several nieces and nephews.
Services will be held on Saturday at 10:30 am from Leibensperger Funeral Homes, Inc., 223 Peach Street, Leesport. Burial will follow in Berks County Memorial Gardens. A viewing will be held in the funeral home Friday 7:00 to 9:00 pm and Saturday 9:30 to 10:30 am. Memorial contributions may be sent to One United Church of Christ, 1730 New Holland Road, Kenhorst, PA 19607. For online condolences, please visit, www.leibenspergerfuneralhomes.com.