Emma Ruth Peifer, 86, died at Brethren Village Retirement Community on Saturday, September 22, 2012. Born in Lancaster and raised in Manheim, she was the daughter of the late Ezra W. and Martha Henny Eichelberger. A homemaker and farmer's wife she was married to the late Mervin E. Peifer for 53 years before his death in 2001.

Emma Ruth left Manheim High School during WWII to work at the former Raybestos Asbestos plant in Manheim. She enjoyed raising capon chickens with her family on their Manheim Township farm when her children were in 4-H. Emma Ruth also volunteered at the Manheim Farm Show French fry stand for 25 years. She attended Hempfield Church of the Brethren and was a member of Farm Women #5. For many years, she never missed a Barnstormer game on the radio. She loved to crochet. Emma Ruth enjoyed a special relationship with her nurses at Brethren Village.

Surviving are 3 children, Linda M. wife of Allen Esbenshade of Mount Joy, Susan A., wife of Douglas Glouner of Lititz and Michael E. Peifer, husband of Deneise of Flowery Branch, GA; and 6 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren and her sister Lorraine Riehl of Myrtle Beach, SC.

A Memorial Service will be held 11 AM Wednesday, September 26, 2012, in the Chapel of Brethren Village, 3001 Lititz Pike, Lancaster, PA, with Pastor Mark J. Tedford officiating. The family will receive friends immediately following the service. Private Interment in Hempfield Church of the Brethren Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, Memorial Contributions may be made to the Good Samaritan Fund at Brethren Village Retirement Community, Attn: Development Department, P.O. Box 5093, Lancaster, PA 17606. To send the family online condolences, please visit SnyderFuneralHome.com. Charles F. Snyder Jr. Funeral Home & Crematory, 717-560-5100