Edward S. Hess

Edward S. Hess, 90, of Lancaster, went home to be with his Great Shepherd, his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Sunday, May 17, 2015 at Calvary Fellowship Homes. He was a devoted husband to his dear wife, Marian (Herr) Hess. They would have celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary next year. He was the son of the late Norman and Helen (Snavely) Hess. He was born July 2, 1924 on the farm he lived on until he was 80 years old. Then he and Marian resided in a lovely cottage at Calvary Homes where he continued his love of the soil by planting beautiful flowers all around. He was always a generous man, who loved people, had a twinkle in his eye and a playful sense of humor. His gentle smile and prayers often brought tears to the eyes of his family. He loved all things growing, beginning his working years for 10 years as a "truck farmer," selling vegetables to local grocers, hospitals and restaurants. Then he took on a large flock of purebred Hampshire sheep. Finally, in 1960 he began a business with his brother, the late Arthur Hess, which became Hess Bros. Fruit Company. He loved visiting the orchards, building rapport with the growers, and purchasing apples to pack and resell to stores all around the area. He retired from Hess brothers in 1993. All through the years he maintained a lovely little flock of sheep which he tended with a true shepherd's heart. He loved hosting picnics on the farm and sharing many weekends with friends at the little cabin in Potter County. He was a long-time member of Calvary Church where he served as a beloved children's church leader, an elder, served on the missions committee, and visitation committee. He is survived by a son, Pastor Tom married to Kate (Hoffman) Hess from Jerusalem, Israel; a daughter, Rebecca "Beckie" wife of John Thompson of Leola, PA. He was preceded in death by his son: Edward "Tedd" whose wife, Bonnie Welch Hess, lives in Lancaster. He is also survived by a granddaughter, Jessica Leigh Hess, and 6 step grandsons; a brother, Herbert wife of Sarah Hess, Millersville, PA; two sisters: Elizabeth, wife of Leslie Evans of Mansfield and Jane Landis of Lancaster, PA. His brother, Arthur, preceded him in death. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Edward's Memorial Service on Thursday, June 11, 2015 at 11:00 a.m. at Calvary Church, 1051 Landis Valley Road, Lancaster, PA 17601 with Dr. Eric Crichton and Pastor Tom Hess officiating. The family will greet friends at the church from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service. A private family interment will take place at Landis Valley Mennonite Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, Memorial contributions in Edward's name can be made to Calvary Fellowship Homes, Benevolent Fund, 502 Elizabeth Drive, Lancaster, PA 17601 or Calvary Church, Global Partners Fund, 1051 Landis Valley Road, Lancaster, PA 17601.

Edward S. Hess

May 20, 2015