Clifford Readler’s family sorrowfully announces his death on the early morning of Sunday, March 6, 2022. At a month shy of 91 years, his patience, strength, and humor are sorely missed.
Clifford and his wife, Gladys, lived in the house that he completely rebuilt in Dorrance Township for sixty-six years. A daughter and three sons spent idyllic childhoods there, safe and secure under the spread of his capable protective arms. There seemed no problem too difficult for him to fix, no depth of snow to keep him from getting to work, no car too stubborn to resist his probing diagnostic fingers. He has read (or at least given a good shot at) every Reader’s Digest condensed novel since 1971, and holds the world’s record for the number of completed Sudoku puzzles (an obvious achievement, although not verified). He could whistle a perfect, beautiful tune, and do one-legged knee bends (when coaxed sufficiently). He dropped out of high school after tenth grade to help on the Depression-struggling farm, yet was so adept at mathematics, that he later helped younger family members with their algebra. He was a Deacon and served on Consistory at Emmanuel United Church of Christ. A couple of his great joys were listening to music, and watching and listening to birds, another type of music.
Born to Ken and Hazel Readler in 1931, Clifford is survived by his wife, Gladys, and three children: Paula Rowlands and her husband James; Blaine Readler and his wife Monica; and Kenny Readler and his wife Viveca. Surviving grandchildren include: Carrie Johnson; James Rowlands; Hollie Leatherman; Scott Rowlands; Emily Krider; Luke Readler; and two step-children, Candace Price and Jacob Warman. Additionally, thirteen great grandchildren round out the healthy tribe and gave him great enjoyment.
Clifford is pre-deceased by his brother Bryce; sister Aladene Rinehimer; son, Scott, and grandchild, Zach.
A viewing for Clifford will be held Friday, March 11, 2022, starting at 10:30 at Emmanuel United Church of Christ in Dorrance, 7768 Blue Ridge Trail, Mountain Top, followed by a funeral service at 11:30 AM. Interment will follow in the parish cemetery.