James B. Dietrich

James B. Dietrich, 54, formerly of Lebanon, died Friday, April 11, 2014, at Country Meadows of Hershey. Until his diagnosis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) or Lou Gehrig’s disease in 2013, he was an avid hiker, having climbed all 48 of the official peaks over 4000 feet in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. He enjoyed a 19-year career with the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission. Jim faced his ALS diagnosis with grace along with the care and support of devoted family, friends, and special individuals from Country Meadows of Hershey, Celtic Hospice, Central Penn Nursing Care, Inc., and the Penn State Hershey ALS Clinic and Research Center. At Jim’s request there will be no service, but his memory may be honored with a donation to the James B. Dietrich Fund, The ALS Association Greater Philadelphia Chapter, 321 Norristown Road–Suite 260, Ambler, PA 19002 ( http://www.alsphiladelphia.org/Dietrich ).  Arrangements have been entrusted to Rothermel Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc., 25 West Pine Street, Palmyra, PA 17078.  Condolences and memories may be shared at www.rothermelfuneralhome.com