Donald Rentschler

DONALD R. RENTSCHLER, 89, of Denver, passed away in Tower Health Reading Hospital on Monday, June 25, 2018. He was the loving husband of B. Joyce (Sell) Rentschler for 67 years. Born in Reading, he was a son of the late Stephen & Dorothy (Dunn) Rentschler. Donald was an accomplished musician and a dedicated teacher. He obtained a Bachelors degree in music from the Pennsylvania State University and a Masters degree in education from Temple University. He was the first student conductor of the Penn State Concert Blue Band. He mastered the oboe, studying for four years with John de Lancie, the principle oboist of the Philadelphia Orchestra. Donald played the oboe professionally in numerous area musical organizations including the Allentown, Reading and Lancaster Symphonies; co-founded the Reading Woodwind Quintet; and taught instrumental music in the Conrad Weiser, McCaskey, and Governor Mifflin school districts. He was a member of the Ringgold Band, where he met his beloved wife Joyce, who was a vocal soloist with the Band. He never forgot the first six words he said to Joyce: "Do you have a way home?" Donald was also an oboe instructor, mentoring students who advanced to distinguished teaching and orchestral careers. Education was important to Donald and he was very proud of his wife and children for their academic accomplishments. In former years he was an avid golfer who started the Conrad Weiser golf team, played in the Berks County Firemen's League, and won several local tournaments. Friends and family were important to Donald, and he always looked forward to holiday gatherings with family and regular Thursday lunches at 3rd & Spruce Caf with his musician friends. He will forever be remembered for his kindness and generosity. In addition to his wife, Donald is survived by his two children, Mark S. Rentschler, with whom he resided in Denver, and Shawne K. Moyer, wife of Kirk, of Yardley. He was predeceased by his sister, Violet Wheeler and brother, Robert Rentschler. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, July 7, at 11:00 a.m. in the Laureldale Cemetery Chapel, 4631 Pottsville Pike, Reading, PA 19605, officiated by Reverend Dr. Elizabeth Kalu. Visitation prior to service from 10 11 a.m. at the chapel. Interment will follow in the Laureldale Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Humane Society of Berks County at humanepa.org and the Ringgold Band, 3539-A Freemont Street Laureldale, PA 19605. Arrangements by Good Sipler Funeral & Cremation Centre, Inc. of Reamstown. Condolences may be posted at www.goodfuneral.com.