Obituary of Miriam M. Aldinger

Miriam M. Aldinger, 90, of Elizabethtown, PA passed away peacefully on Thursday, November 15, 2018 at Masonic Village, Elizabethtown. Born November 6, 1928 in Middletown, she was one of 13 children born to the late Jacob S. and Sarah Alice Long Messick. Miriam married R. Emmert Aldinger November 28, 1946. He preceded her in death on December 17, 1995. She was blessed with three children, Dr. Ralph Aldinger, husband of Debbie, of Belleville, Martha Wess of Harrisburg, and Marilyn Rehkugler, wife of Paul-Gene, of Elizabethtown. Miriam was a member of Swatara Hill Church of the Brethren where she was elected lifetime deaconess at age 23, taught Sunday school and Bible school, directed the adult choir, served as chorister, told children's stories during worship services, and served on many committees. She also attended Conewago Church of the Brethren. Prior to retiring in 1996, she was employed by Masonic Village for 36 years, her last 25 years as an activity therapist. She was a member and Past Worthy Matron of the Order of Eastern Star, Chapter No. 407, in Elizabethtown. She also served on the Grand Chapter Sessions Committee and held many Grand Chapter appointments. Miriam was also involved with Job's Daughters as Associate Bethel Guardian, Bethel Chapter No. 15, in Elizabethtown and as Associate Grand Guardian for the state of PA International Order of Job's Daughters. Prior to moving to Masonic Village, was a resident at Brethren Village for 21 years during which time she was a very active volunteer. In addition to her three children and spouses, she is survived by five grandchildren; two great grandchildren; and two siblings, Mahlon Messick, husband of Helen, of Elizabethtown, and Mildred Risser of Summerville, SC. She was preceded in death by ten siblings, Marie Myers, Mattilee Dagen, Margaret Zell, Marvin, Miller, Milford, Melvin, Marlin, Merville, and Mylin Messick; and ten foster siblings. A funeral service will be held on Sunday November 18, 2018 at 12:00 PM at Swatara Hill Church of the Brethren, 2943 East Harrisburg Pike, Middletown, PA 17057 with Rev. Bill Wink officiating. Interment will follow in Mount Tunnel Cemetery, Elizabethtown. The family will receive guests at the church on Sunday morning from 11:00 AM until the time of the service. All are invited to a luncheon at the church immediately following the graveside service. The family requests that flowers please be omitted. If desired, contributions may be made to Swatara Hill Church of the Brethren. To express a condolence with the family or for additional information, visit www.spencefuneralservices.com.