Vernon M. Ressler Jr.

Vernon M. Ressler Jr., 80, of New Derry, died on Tuesday, August 9, 2016 at UPMC Montefiore Hospital, Pittsburgh. He was born May 1, 1936 in Blairsville a son of the late Vernon M. Sr. and Laura (Robb) Ressler. Vernon proudly served in the Army National Guard. Prior to retirement he worked at the Elliott Company for over 30 years. After retirement he worked at the Matthew X. Merlin Funeral Home, Inc.. He was a very active member in his church, Alpha Lion’s Den Ministries where he was a deacon. He was also a member of the Derry Lions Club, very active in the Derry Railroad Days, and was Santa Clause for the Derry Railroad Days Committee. Vernon is survived by his loving wife of 35 years Margaret I. “Peggy” (Beck) Ressler of New Derry; two sisters, Mary Lou Ressler and Betty Mock both of Blairsville; three children from his first wife Joan Ann Yanossy (deceased), Gwendolyn J. LaPell and husband Larry of Norfolk, VA, Vernon Martin Ressler III, wife Kelly, two grandchildren Michael and John of Winter Park, FL, and Alisa A. Pachella and husband John of Tampa, FL; six step-children Mindy Short and husband Mike of Derry, William Ellenberger of Derry Twp., Amy I. Ellenberger of Latrobe, Barry S. Ellenberger and wife Amanda of Derry, Jennifer L. Shawley and husband Dale of Ligonier, and Heidi Bracken of Lewistown; 31 Step-grandchildren; 16 step-great-grandchildren and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends. Family will receive friends for Vernon’s Life Celebration 2-4 & 6-8 PM Friday August 12, 2016 in the Matthew X. Merlin Funeral Home, Inc. 529 N. Chestnut St. Derry, PA 724-694-8331. A Military Service will be held in the funeral home Saturday August 13, 2016 at 10:30 AM by the Latrobe Derry Veteran Memorial Funeral Detail. Funeral service will follow at 11 AM in the funeral home with the Pastor Ronald Kosor and Pastor Thomas Kennedy co-officiating. Interment will be in the Coles Cemetery. Online condolences may be made to the www.merlinfuneralhome.com. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Action For Animals 386 Route 217 Latrobe PA 15650.

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