Fern A. Zins-Shelow, 86, of Pennside, passed away June 15, 2012, surrounded by her loving family in the residence of her daughter and son-in-law, Gail, and Johan Olsen, Cumru Township.
She was predeceased by her first husband Irvin F. Zins, on March 30, 1996, on the date of their 52nd Anniversary together. They enjoyed a wonderful life together with their family and many longtime friends. Both Fern and Irv were passionate about history and traveled extensively around the world; sometimes just the two of them, or with their three children and friends. Equally passionate was their love of bridge; belonging to various bridge groups since 1957. Fern continued playing bridge until 85 years of age, achieving her "Master's" in the game of Duplicate Bridge.
She is survived by her second husband, Everett "Glen" Shelow; a wonderful, kind, and gentle man, whom she married on July 27, 2004. Also surviving are her two step-daughters, Wendy, wife of William Hoop and Kathy, wife of Mike Gomez, all of Huntingtown, MD.
Fern was born in Reading on September 26, 1925, a daughter of the late Herman and Annie (Adam) Long.
She was a graduate of Reading High School and later graduated from Business School. Fern enjoyed a long 34 year career as a Medical Assistant for Dr. Cedric Jimerson, Chief of Surgery, at the former Community General Hospital. Dr. Jimerson, who resides at The Heritage, has, and continues to be, a lifelong friend of Fern and the entire family.
Surviving Fern are three daughters: Gail L., wife of Johan V. Olsen of Cumru Township; Michelle D., wife of David Sockel, Reading and Karla A., wife of Jeffrey Schmehl, Reading. Other survivors include five grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren. At Fern's request, she wanted to include Lucy Frey, wife of Barry Frey, Bethlehem, PA., whom she always called her "Fourth Daughter". Fern was loved and blessed by Lucy's presence in her life for 52 years; especially during her recent illness.
Fern was also predeceased by four siblings: Harold Long, Russell Long, Helen Laudermilch and Ruth Long.
Our mother will always be remembered for the many lives she touched with her compassion and humor. Her infectious smile created a lasting impact on her family and every person with whom she came in contact. Fern will not be forgotten because the world is truly a better place by her presence.
A viewing will be held at Kuhn Funeral Home, 739 Penn Avenue, West Reading on Wednesday evening from 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. A second viewing will be held Thursday at Kuhn Funeral Home from 10-11. Services will be held at Kuhn Funeral Home on Thursday, June 21 at 11:00 a.m. Burial will be next to her husband, Irvin Zins,in Forest Hills Memorial Park, Exeter Township.
Contributions may be made to: Caring Hospice Services, Visiting Angels or the Animal Rescue League, P.O. Box 69, Mohnton, PA 19540.
For online condolences, visit www.kuhnfuneralhome.com.
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