Edith M. Blouch

Edith M. Blouch, 97, of Palmyra, passed away Tuesday, October 1, 2013 at the Milton S. Hershey Medical Center. Born in Palmyra, she was the daughter of the late Amos S. and Sallie H. (Gingrich) Blouch.

Born on August 15, 1916, Edith was predeceased in life by three siblings, Esther Gibble, Edna Blouch and Herman Blouch. Edith obtained her Bachelor’s Degree from Elizabethtown College in 1936 and earned her Master’s Degree from Temple University in 1956. Education was very important to Edith and teaching was her passion. She started her teaching career in a one-room schoolhouse at Sandy Hollow in Dauphin County. By 1958, she was teaching at the first elementary school in Palmyra, Forge Road Elementary School. She dedicated a total of 44 years of her life to teaching students in the Palmyra Area School District, as well as serving as an Assistant Principal. Due to her excellence, expertise, passion and dedication, even into her 97th year of life, past students would visit with her, recalling their school days with fond memories.

Family and friends were essential to Edith, and her door was always open with a welcoming aroma and delicious homemade food. She was an independent, motivated, determined and strong woman, always willing to help others and give of her time and talents. After retirement, Edith volunteered thousands of hours to various organizations.

Edith is survived by two nieces: Kathie Haigis, wife of Bruce, Lancaster, PA and Sallie Hoppert, Lancaster, PA; two great-nieces, Alicia Haigis and Jennifer Baker, both of Lancaster, and a great-great niece, Lily Baker.

Services are private and at the convenience of the family. Burial will be in South Annville Cemetery, Annville. Arrangements have been entrusted to Rothermel Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc., 25 W. Pine St., Palmyra 17078.

The family respectfully requests that in lieu of flowers all donations may be made in Edith’s honor to the Four Diamonds Fund, Four Diamonds Fund Office of University Development and Alumni Relations, 600 Centerview Drive PO Box 852 Hershey, PA 17033-0852.