Earl George Ebling, 87, of Bethel, passed away in his home surrounded by his loving family on Oct. 24, 2025. He was born on May 13, 1938, in Fredericksburg, PA, to the late Howard and Katie (Brown) Ebling. He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Joann L. (Dundore) Ebling.
Earl, along with his father, was the owner of Howard Ebling and Son Construction Company. He built his own home and many other structures around Berks County. In addition to owning his own business, he also worked as a Clay Equipment dealer for many years and ran the family farm consisting of crops, livestock, and poultry. His happy place was on his tractor or restoring his antique tractors (just not John Deere).
Earl was a faithful member of Little Swatara Church of the Brethren. From the age of 12 until he was 86, Earl was the caretaker of Merkey’s Cemetery, where he also served as Board President for many years. Earl was an avid hunter and sharp businessman, but most importantly, he was a loving husband and father.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by his daughters, Deneen Ebling, Tara Ebling (significant other, Ben Gonzalez), and Bonnie Behney (husband, Randy); the son he never had, Anthony Fazio (wife, Candice); sister-in-law, Shirley Herman (husband, John); niece, Robin Lamm (husband, Dennis); and several great-nieces and -nephews and their children. He was predeceased by his sister, Jean Steeves. Earl’s friends were always important to him, including those in the Midway Diner Crew.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, Nov. 15, 2025, at 11 a.m., at Little Swatara Church of the Brethren, 31 Rehrersburg Road, Bethel, PA 19507. Visitation will be held from 10 a.m. until the time of the service. Following service, inurnment at Merkey Cemetery. Services have been entrusted to Grose Funeral Home, 358 W. Washington Ave., Myerstown, PA 17067.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Earl’s honor to The American Cancer Society, Donate Today | The American Cancer Society, or P.O. Box 6704, Hagerstown, MD 21741.
