Joel A. Artz, 71, of Manheim, passed away on Tuesday, Dec. 24, 2024, at his residence. He was the husband of Cindy J. (Smith) Artz, to whom he was married for 47 years.
Born in Lebanon, he was a son of the late Allen M. and Annie L. (Royer) Artz.
Joel graduated in 1973 from Lebanon High School and, along with his wife, Cindy, owned and operated Smith’s Candies. They had patrons each week at Roots Country Market and the West Shore Farmer’s Market. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and woodworking. Joel shared his woodworking talents at his church by helping remodel the pastor’s study. He was a member of Lebanon Bible Fellowship, where he enjoyed helping with day camp and was on the board of Child Evangelism Fellowship for over 30 years. Joel also enjoyed spending time at his cabin in Potter County. His greatest joy was spending time with his wife, children, and their spouses and grandchildren.
In addition to his wife, Cindy, he is survived by four children, Micah Artz, and wife, Christine, Jason Artz, Angela, wife of Jason Hughes, and Sarah, wife of Benjamin Yunginger; seven grandchildren Owen, Sydney, Emma, Ethan, Elaina, Hunter, and Luke; two brothers, Don Artz, and wife, Elizabeth, and Robert Artz, and wife, Barbara; and several nieces and nephews.
Joel was preceded in death by his sister, Carol Matthews.
Funeral services will be held on Monday, Jan. 6, 2025, at 11 a.m. from Lebanon Bible Fellowship Church, 1635 Mill Road, Lebanon, PA 17042. Interment will follow at Kochenderfer Cemetery. A viewing will be held from 9 a.m. until the time of his service at the Church.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Lebanon Bible Fellowship Church at the above-listed address.
