Robert N. Whitcraft

Robert N. Whitcraft, 81, of 99 Bethany Rd., Ephrata, passed away Friday, May 17 at Ephrata Manor. His wife, Nellie (Crago) Whitcraft preceded him in death on Feb. 18, 2012.

Born in Ephrata, he was the son of the late Samuel and Cora Whitcraft.

He was a machinist for 41 years at Sperry Rand, currently Ford New Holland, retiring in 1991.

He was a chartered member of the New Holland Church of the Nazarene, where he was a Sunday school teacher and also served on the church board. He served in the Air Force during the Korean War.

Surviving are four children: Keith R. Whitcraft, married to Vicky (Herrin), East Earl; Liana Whitcraft, Ephrata; Brian F. Whitcraft, New Holland; and John “J.D.” Whitcraft, Ephrata; five grandchildren: Shawn Reich, Christina Hess, Derrek Reich, Chad Whitcraft, Brandon Whitcraft and five great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by four siblings: Sam Whitcraft, Anna Mae (Whitcraft) Brugger, Betty (Whitcraft) Kyle, and Nancy (Whitcraft) Smith.

A viewing will be held at the Groff-High Funeral Home located at 145 W. Main St., New Holland on Thursday, May 23 from 7 – 9 p.m. The funeral service will be held on Friday, May 24 at 10 a.m., with a viewing preceding the service from 9-10 am, at the New Holland Church of the Nazarene, located at 428 Ranck Rd., New Holland with Pastor Ken Mingledorff and Chaplain Sally Maxwell officiating. Interment will be in Pleasant View Cemetery, Sinking Spring.