Joseph C. Benner, 87, of Macungie, died Jan. 27, 2014, in Lehigh Center. He was the husband of Anna M. (Schaffer) Benner, with whom he celebrated 68 years of marriage. Born in Vera Cruz, where he resided for over 70 years, he was the son of the late Elwood V. and Edna E. (Lorah) Benner.

He worked as a fireman and locomotive engineer for Reading Railroad and Conrail for 38 years, retiring in 1986.

He honorably served his country in the Army during World War II in the European Theater.

He was a member of Old Zionsville United Church of Christ since 1941, serving as a deacon, elder, member of consistory, cemetery, property, village school and historical committees.

He was a life member of Vera Cruz and Macungie fire companies. He was a member and trustee of the Vera Cruz Community Association, a member of the Upper Milford and Emmaus Historical Societies, Vera Cruz and Emmaus Senior Citizens, a member of the International, American and Keystone Carnival Glass Clubs, and was an antique dealer at the Kutztown Folk Festival for over 25 years.

He is survived by his wife; daughter, Linda S. and her husband John Barone, of Norwalk, Conn.; sister, Mary Ann and her husband Robert Mumbauer, of Macungie; nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by a brother, Cornelius E.

Contributions may be made to Old Zionsville U.C.C., P.O. Box 215, Old Zionsville, 18068.

Arrangements were made by the Schantz Funeral Home, P.C., Emmaus.