October 25, 2013

James C. Gerhard, 89, of South Wayne Street, Orwigsburg, entered into God's care Friday at ManorCare Health Services, Pottsville.

Born in West Brunswick Township, Aug. 5, 1924, he was a son of the late Walter J.H. and Helen P. Kramer Gerhard.

He was the husband of the former Maureen T. Reilly, whom he married Nov. 6, 1965.

He was a 1942 graduate of Orwigsburg High School, earned a bachelor's degree in history from Kings College, Delaware, a master's degree in history from the University of Delaware and a master's degree in psychiatric social work from Florida State University.

James served in the Navy in World War II.

He was employed as a social worker and in administrative capacities in hospitals and social agencies in Florida, California, New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania. He retired as the Director of Social Work for Hamburg Center, in 1989.

He was raised in the Protestant faith.

Surviving, in addition to his wife of 47 years, are two daughters, Lizbeth T. Gerhard, Orwigsburg, and Kristin M., wife of Scott Greenawalt, Orwigsburg; son, John C. Gerhard, husband of Aliena J., Craftsbury Common, Vt.; sister, Earla M., widow of Alvin Schaeffer, Reading; and grandchildren, Meghan, Sean and Daniel Greenawalt and William and Reilly Gerhard.

Services are entrusted to Hamilton Funeral Home Inc., Orwigsburg, and will be held at the convenience of the family.