J. Richard Newswanger, born October 17, 1952, 68 years old, went to his heavenly home on April 30, 2021, following a short illness. Our dearest husband, father, grandfather, pastor and friend will be deeply missed. Our greatest comfort is knowing he is with Jesus! 

Richard was the son of Lester and Mildred (Gehman) Newswanger. He lovingly leaves behind his precious wife, Elma (Yutzy) Newswanger, whom he married on August 10, 1974.

He spoke warmth and heart connection into the lives of each of their four children and 17 grandchildren—all surviving. Son, Andrew and Charlene (Good) Newswanger, and five children, Riley, Adler, Corde, Sailor and Harbor, of Myerstown, PA. Daughter, Amelia and Dean Martin and three children, Matthew, Morgan, and Braden, of Bethel, PA. Son, Joshua and Michelle (Martin) Newswanger and five children, Tyler, Courtney, Kelsey, Andre and Lucas. Daughter, Janette and Trent Stauffer and four children, Taryn, Megan, Ashlyn, Brynn, of Reading, PA.

Richard’s parents of Myerstown, and a nephew, Gordon Martin preceded him in death. His six siblings and spouses, Glenn (Elaine) Newswanger, Lucille and (Lamar) Leinbach, Louise and (Nevin) Martin, Gloria and (Melvin) Herr, Mark and (Cheryl) Newswanger, Debra and (Glenn) Musser, all in Myerstown, PA area, along with numerous nieces and nephews all survive.

Newswanger’s Lawn and Garden in Pine Grove, PA was founded by Richard. His son now owns and operates the business. 

Deck airport houses the plane Richard and his friend recently restored. He was thrilled to be giving his granddaughter flight lessons toward her pilot’s license.

Richard was a man with a vision and heart to invite souls into the kingdom of God. He spent his adult years in ministry which included Northern Youth Programs in Northern Ontario, where he served in the administration, teaching, and as a pilot. He served as pastor at Roedersville, Womelsdorf, and Family Harvest Mennonite churches in PA. He sat on and chaired several boards including missions, church planting, counseling ministries, and schools. These ministries took him across the US, Canada, and internationally to several countries. Richard mentored young men and loved to help them pursue their dreams. He will be greatly missed.

A memorial service will be held Friday, May 7, 2021, at 2:30 p.m. at Swatara Mennonite Church, 10 Camp Swatara Rd., Myerstown. A viewing will be held Thursday, May 6, 2021, from 2:00-4:00 p.m. and 6:00-8:00 p.m. at Swatara Mennonite Church. Interment will be private at the convenience of the family.