Ruby J. Heffner

It's with much sadness we share the news with our friends, that Ruby Joyce Heffner passed away peacefully on Thursday, June 17, in the Lehigh Valley Hospital, Allentown, Pa. at the age of 94. She was the daughter of the late Percy and Mary (Schlear) Machemer. Preceded in death was her devoted husband "Uncle George", Hamburg's favorite mailman, who died Nov. 2, 2008. They were married for 53 years and according to Uncle George were happy for at least 3 of those years!

She was a beloved aunt to many nieces and nephews, some of which include: Stephanie Reichard, Melissa Koenig, Jeana Webber, Corey Sheperak, Steven Ortenzi, Bonita Umberger, Belinda Rank and Bradley Ortenzi, Joanne Maderness, and Glenn Machemer. She is survived by 18+ great-nieces and nephews, and several great-great nieces and nephews. Having no children of her own, Ruby became a "surrogate" mother to many of her friend's children and grandchildren who we know will miss her too.

Ruby loved baking, especially during the holidays and made dozens and dozens of Christmas cookies that she would share with her family and friends. Her Jewish Apple cake was a family favorite. She was a former Eastern Star Matron and a member of the Hamburg Area Band Boosters chaperone for many years.

Please join us for her viewing at Burkey and Driscoll Funeral Home, Fourth St., Hamburg, PA, on Monday, June 28 from 6 to 8 p.m. or Tuesday, June 29 from 10 to 11 a.m. A service will follow with Pastor Mark Jensen officiating with a burial at St. John's Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please feel free to make a donation to St. John's Lutheran Church, 99 Church St., Hamburg or St. John's Cemetery Maintenance Fund, PO Box 44, Hamburg, PA 19526.