Elwood R. Mantz

Elwood Mantz, 95, formerly of Hecla, PA, passed away on March 10, 2024, at Providence Place, Pottsville, PA. He was a resident there since March 2023. 

Elwood was born on December 9, 1928, in Coaldale, PA. He was the son of the late Charles and Edna (Adams) Mantz. 

He was the widower of Joan M. (Nester) Mantz who passed away on July 21, 1979. Also preceded by death of two brothers (Norman Mantz and Edwin Mantz) and two sisters (Pauline Cunfer and Betty Fritz). He is survived by one brother, William Mantz of Landsdale, PA. 

Elwood is also survived by a son, Robert Mantz (Kathleen Bennett) of Seattle, WA; a daughter, Linda Vaughn of Orwigsburg, PA; and a daughter, Debra Geiger (Bradley) of Buckeye, AZ.  Also survived by grandchildren Bradley Hoy (April) of Placentia, CA; Brook (Geiger) Gendron (David) of San Diego, CA; Elizabeth Shay of Schuylkill Haven, PA; and Aimee (Mantz) Gibson and Stephanie (Mantz) Wiley of Michigan. And also survived by great grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. 

Elwood served in the US Army from April 1946 - Sept 1947 stationed in Tokyo Japan. After the Army, he worked on the Ahner Fruit Farm in Andreas, PA and drove truckloads of fruit to New York City five days a week. He then worked as a leather cutter at Zulicks Shoe Factory in Orwigsburg, PA; owned and operated the barbershop in his home in Hecla, PA; and was a stone crusher operator and truck driver at the stone quarry in Andreas, PA. 

Elwood attended Christ Evangelical Free Church in Lehighton, PA. He was a hard worker throughout his life. He enjoyed taking care of his lawn, feeding the birds, and working on cars. He was able to travel frequently around the country to visit his family. Elwood loved playing cards, especially penny poker and golf card games. In his later years, his daughter, Linda, was his loving caregiver for several years prior to Elwood being transitioned to assisted living where he received wonderful care. He also enjoyed playing bingo there during his last year. 

At the wishes of Elwood, a private graveside service will be held at Zion’s Stone Church Cemetery in New Ringgold, PA.  In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Providence Place, 2200 First Avenue, Pottsville, PA 17901. Arrangements are being handled by the Hartman Funeral Home, 1791 West Penn Pike, Rte. 309, New Ringgold. Online condolences may be made at www.hartmanfuneralhomeinc.com.