Obituaries
Robert L. Wenrich
Robert L Wenrich of Lancaster passed away Monday at home with his family at the age of 75. Son of Edgar and Susan Swope Wenrich, he was born in Hummelstown on December 7, 1933. Robert celebrated 55 years of marriage to Karol Smith Wenrich in June 2009. Robert leaves many to cherish his life including his daughters Michele wife of Bradley Holleran, Kathy Stoltzfus, Melinda wife of John Scott, and Jennifer West. In addition to his daughters, he is celebrated by six grandchildren; Kelly Francone, John Stoltzfus, Michael Fischer, Robbie Holleran, Shannon Holleran and Lily West. Robert is survived by two brothers: Bill and Harry Wenrich and a sister: Dorothy Struphar. He was preceded in death by brothers: Ray, Paul and John.
Robert received a B.S. in Education, in social studies and geography from Millersville University in 1955 and a Masters of Education from Franklin and Marshall College as well as completing graduate studies at the University of Delaware and Temple University. During his senior year, Robert was the Co-Captain of the varsity football team at Millersville.
Due to his love of education, Robert went on to teach at Solanco and Hempfield High Schools, before becoming principal at Coatesville Area Senior High School from 1970-1972. Robert served as Principal of Ephrata Senior High School from 1972 until his retirement from education in 1993.
Robert, known as Bob to friends and family enjoyed spending summers at Rehoboth Beach. He loved fishing, crabbing and boating but most of all, spending time with his family. Robert was interested in Civil War history as well as reading local and national politics. Robert was known for his keen sense of humor, dedication to family and most of all for his unwavering integrity. ‘Some days you eat the bear and some days the bear eats you.”
Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Prince and Vine Streets, Lancaster on Friday, August 14, 2009 at 1:30 PM with Rev Leo Goodman as Celebrant. Friends will be received at the Charles F. Snyder Jr. Funeral Home and Chapel, 3110 Lititz Pike, Lititz on Friday from 11:00AM to 12:15PM. Please omit flowers. Contributions may be made in Robert’s memory to St. John Neumann Catholic Church, 601 E. Delp Road, Lancaster, Pa 17601. To send online condolences, please visit snyderfuneralhome.com
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From the Class of 1960 of Solanco High School and BOFUB we express our deepest sympathy. Mr. Wenrich was our Class Advisor and was very well liked by all. Four years ago we were reunited with him and made him a member of BOFUB, members of our class who have dealt with terminal illnesses. He attended many of our get togethers and moved us to a new level by encouraging us in many ways. At our 45th class reunion in 2005 he spoke and reminisced with us in a kind and giving way. Many classmates expressed their appreciation to him at that time for giving them clear direction in high school. He will be dearly missed by all. We will memorialize him at our 50th class reunion in 2010.
Karol and family,
We are so sorry for your loss.
what more can be said at a time like this.
Bob was truly one of the good guys.
He will be missed by all.
Love,
Ron and Nancy Wenrich
Dear Karol and family, I am saddened to hear of Bob’s death. When I didn’t receive any e-mails, I thought maybe he changed his address again. Most recently I recall running our dogs, Riley and Casey, in the park behind my house until we were told they had to be on leash. So, Bob changed parks and that was that. We e-mailed interesting things after that and I enjoyed hearing from him. I liked and respected him as an administrator at E.H.S. His leadership was the best. I will miss his presence.
With love,
Lanny Ammon
Dear Wenrich Family, It was with sadness that I read about the passing of Mr. Wenrich. He was my POD teacher at Solanco High School in the 1961-62 school year. Because of the education that I received at Solanco from great teachers like him, I chose to become an educator and have been so engaged for the last 44 years. He taught us many things about our form of government and current events, which I sincerely appreciate. However, he also taught us to respect authority, and he did that by respecting us. While it has been over 40 years since I have seen him, I have never, and will never, forget him. I’m sure that you know that he made a difference in the lives of many persons, including me.
Sincerely,
Robert A. Frick, Ed.D.
Superintendent, Lampeter-Strasburg School District
Karol, daughters and their families
We were so sorry to read Bob’s obituary this morning in the newspaper. He was too young. We can remember all the good times we had in Quarryville area. We hope the good memories will help you through this very hard time.
Our sympathies to all of you.
Ralph and Joanne Bitler
I was sorry to hear of Mr. Wenrich’s passing. He was a wonderful principal at Ephrata Sr. High he was always there for me. I had a lot of problems with drugs and alcohol and he made me want to be a better person. He believed in me when I didn’t believe in myself. He was a great man…..
Melissa
So very saddened to read of Mr. Wenrich’s passing. He was my Social Studies (Problems of Democracy) teacher while a student at Solanco High School, Class of 1961. A great teacher who aided in developing my interest in politics and history. Definitely made a positive impact on my life. May God grant him rest and may perpetual light shine upon him now and forever. We share the family’s grief and celebrate his life, one worthy of emulation.
J. Charles "Bud" Hart
