Jacob M. “Jake” Gartner 91, of Whitehall, died peacefully Oct. 17, 2018, at home surrounded by all he loved.

He and his wife Margaret E. (Selady) Gartner were married 65 years.

Born in Stiles, he was a son of the late Stephen and Katherine (Etchberger) Gartner.

A 1945 graduate of Coplay High School, he attended the Army Financial School and honorably served in the U.S. Army during WWII.

He continued his service with an almost 43-year stellar career, attaining the rank of command sergeant major.

Last serving at the former Wilson Kramer Reserve Center, Bethlehem, he was a member of the Honorary First Defenders, Allen O. Delke American Legion Post 16, Slatington, and started “The Last Man’s Club.”

He enjoyed his membership in the Coplay Saengerbund, the Golden Agers of St. Elizabeth, and was an avid Yankee fan.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by a daughter Ava McCarthy and husband, Dennis, of Slatington; son Bruce Gartner and wife, Jane, of Wescosville; grandchildren Michael Fedor, Michelle Massi and husband, Vincent, and Alison Lombardi and husband Salvatore III; great-grandchildren Tyler, Ethan, Eva, Salvatore IV, Isabella, Nicholas and Lars; sister Marie Dewalt, and sister-in-law Shirley Gartner.

He was predeceased by grandson, Daniel Gartner, and many brothers, sisters and extended family.

Memorial contributions may be presented in his name to The Golden Agers of St. Elizabeth, 618 Fullerton Ave., Whitehall, PA 18052

Arrangements were made by Gilbert Funeral Home, Whitehall.