Francis J. Ertz

Francis J. Ertz, born Feb. 3, 1925, son of John G. and Mary R. (Dougherty) Ertz, peacefully passed away on January 27, 2012, in Seasons Hospice, Waukesha, Wisconsin, with family by his side. Francis (F.J.), throughout his life, lived with passion, character and leadership. F.J. grew up in the mountains of Nanticoke, Pennsylvania. He later moved to Reading, Pa., graduated from Reading High School and became a Flight Officer with Army Air Corps in World War II.

F.J. met the love of his life, Agatha R., his wife of 58 years; she died on October 25, 2008. He was also predeceased by his son, Vinson F. on September 3, 2007.

Frank had a 40-year career with Verizon, retiring as Director of Public Affairs after the Governor of Pennsylvania appointed him Executive Director of the Independent Regulatory Review Commission. He spent 11 years with the Commission and also served as President of the Tuesday Club of Harrisburg, Pa.

He touched and shaped many lives with his gift of listening, compassion, and business insight. F.J.'s passion for guiding and mentoring others enabled them to successfully advance in their careers.

He was a devoted family man with his church, friends, and community, known for his charisma and social graces with people and love of helping others.

Surviving are four children, Stephen E., husband of Sharon; Kathleen M., wife of Brad; Jeffrey P., husband of Lori and Gregory J., husband of Caroline. Other survivors include three brothers, Jerry of West Lawn, Jack of Peoria, AZ and Donald, husband of Rose of Reading.

There are also ten grandchildren: Jeffrey, Lauren, Nicole, Jessica, Elizabeth, Brittany, Alex, Gretchen, Rebecca, and Hannah, one great grandson, Vinson and one on the way.

For all those who knew and loved F.J., especially his family, we are grateful he was part of our lives and he will always be in our hearts and spirits…until we meet again.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, February 3, 2012, at 11 a.m. in Chapel of St. George at Gethsemane Cemetery, 3139 Kutztown Rd., Muhlenberg Township. A viewing will be held one hour prior to services, in the chapel. Entombment, with full military honors, will be in Gethsemane's mausoleum.

Walter R. Christ Funeral Home, Inc., Laureldale, is in charge of arrangements. For online condolences, visit www.christfuneralhome.com.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to: Partners in Care, Bend, Oregon (www.partnersbend.org or 541-382-5882) or Seasons Hospice, Waukesha, Wisconsin (www.seasons.org or 877-795-9812).