Mabel A. Hower, 99, of Pen Argyl, died June 23, 2016, at VNA Hospice House at St. Luke’s, Bethlehem. She was the wife of late George T. Hower for 54 years.

Born in Northampton, she was a daughter of the late Arthur G. and Lizzie J. (Frederick) Ruch.

She was a homemaker and a farmer’s wife.

She was a lifelong member of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Kreidersville, where she was a 47-year Sunday school teacher and a 50-year choir member.

She was a 30-year volunteer at Gracedale Nursing Home, Nazareth, and was recognized for 5,950 hours of service.

She is survived by three sons, Allen C. and his wife Hart of Plainfield Township, Thomas L. and his wife Patricia of Bath and Arthur G. and his wife Nancy of Plainfield Township; a daughter, Eileen E. and her husband James Sandt of Plainfield Township; four sisters, Helen OIdenwelder, Margaret Fogel of Bethlehem, Ellen Cole, also of Bethlehem, and Jeanette Smith of Nazareth; 13 grandchildren; 40 great-grandchildren; and 32 great-great-grandchildren.

She was predeceased by two brothers, William and Franklin Ruch.

Contributions may be made to Good Shepherd Lutheran Church memorial fund or V.N.A. Hospice of St. Luke’s, both c/o the funeral home, 211 E. Center St., Nazareth, 18064.

Arrangements were made by Bartholomew-Schisler Funeral Home Inc.