Ernest R. Bertsch, 74, of Schnecksville, died April 15, 2016, in his home.

He was the husband of the late Darlene F. (Heydt) Bertsch.

Born March 15, 1942, in Ruchsville, North Whitehall Township, he was the son of the late Ira J. and Bessie M. (Strauss) Bertsch.

A truck mechanic at Mack Trucks Inc., Allentown and Macungie for 42 years, he retired in 2007.

He faithfully and honorably served his country in the U.S. Marine Corps during a peacetime era.

A life member of the Ontelaunee Rod and Gun Club and the Copeechan Fish and Game Club, he was a member of Allen O. Delke American Legion Post 16, Slatington.

He was a member of Faith Evangelical Lutheran Church, Whitehall.

His survivors include children Julie L. Sokalsky (Shawn) of Whitehall, Pharon E. Bertsch (Christine) of Mechanicsburg; brothers John Bertsch of Orlando, Fla., Clinton Bertsch of Cherryville; grandchildren Brandon, Alex, Jonathan; and many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by siblings Violet Brochrowski, Ira O. Bertsch, Joyce Berk and Charles Bertsch.

Expressions of sympathy may be left at heintzelmancares.com.

Memorial contributions may be made to the church memorial Fund c/o the funeral home, P.O. Box 196, Schnecksville, PA 18078-0196.

Arrangements were made by Heintzelman Funeral Home Inc., Schnecksville.