John E. Deckman, Jr., 82

June 09, 2025

John E. Deckman, Jr., 82, of Strasburg, PA, passed away at Lancaster General Hospital on Monday, June 9, 2025. He celebrated 58 years of marriage with his wife Avis (Irvin) Deckman on April 8th.

Born in Lancaster, John was the son of the late John E. and Thelma (Guie) Deckman.

John graduated from Lampeter-Strasburg High School, Class of 1961, and then served in the Army as a Quartermaster SP4 at Fort Lee, VA during the Vietnam War.

He worked as a tablet press operator for Warner-Lambert and Pfizer for 40 years.

John and Avis enjoyed bus trips out West to Yellowstone and to the Arctic Circle, and spending time at their Bethany Beach house. He was a motorhead, working on classic cars and his original Model A Ford, which never left Strasburg. John collected watches, clocks, and Lionel trains. Elmer the cat was John’s constant companion.

In addition to his wife Avis, John is survived by their daughter, Michele, wife of Michael Gerberich of Conestoga, son, Michael Deckman, husband of Rebecca of Strasburg; and five grandchildren, Haley Gerberich, Hannah Gerberich, Jaden Maldonado, John Deckman, and Lainie Deckman.

A cremation graveside service with The Rev. Robert Garvey officiating and Military Honors will take place at Strasburg Mennonite Cemetery (New Section), 1514 Village Road, Strasburg, PA 17579 on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, at 10 AM.

In lieu of flowers, kindly consider a contribution in John’s memory to Pet Pantry of Lancaster County, 26 Millersville Road, Lancaster, PA 17603.
Pet Pantry of Lancaster County