Edwin W. Rickenbach, 88, of Enola died on March 27, 2016 at Claremont Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, Carlisle PA.
He was retired from the United States Air Force, earning the rank of Senior Master Sergeant and Administrative Superintendent while serving in WWII, and the Korean and Vietnam Conflicts. He was First Sergeant of several squadrons throughout the U.S. and completed tours in the North Atlantic and in Labrador. He was a graduate and then Instructor of the 8th Air Force NCO Academy, as well as Instructor and Sergeant Major for the Department of Air Science, Lehigh University. His awards included the WWII Victory Medal, the Air Force Longevity Service Award with four bronze Oak Leaf Clusters, the Good Conduct Award with four bronze loops, the Air Force Commendation Medal, the Strategic Air Command 8th Air Force NCO Academy Ribbon, the National Defense Service Medal, and the Outstanding Unit Citation award with the 99th Bomb Wing squadron. Edwin had a second successful 21-year career with the Commonwealth of PA Liquor Control Board and retired as the Director of Support Services.
He was a devoted member of Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church, Enola, since 1962. Edwin served in many capacities at Zion, including past President of Council.
He was a member of the American Legion Post #751, Enola; Life Member and the West Shore Chapter 50 Disabled American Veterans Club, and multiple hunting and outdoors clubs. Edwin is survived by his loving wife of 67 years, Alice J. (Baer) Rickenbach. He is also survived by his son, Edwin H. and wife Patricia Rickenbach of Mechanicsburg, daughter-in-law Joan Rickenbach of Enola and son Gary L. and wife Jamie L. Rickenbach of Richfield; grand-daughters Jennifer Gorberg, Lisa Arrasmith, Lori Rector, Bryna Rickenbach and Kailyn White; great-grandchildren L. Michael, Christine, Don’yel, Donavon, Delani, Nicole and Isaac; great grand-son Carson, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his sister, Jean M. Rehr, his son, Allen D. Rickenbach, and great-grandson, L. David Byers.
Viewings will be held on Sunday, April 3, 2016 from 2PM-4PM and on Monday, April 4, 2016 from 10:30AM-11:30AM at Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church, Enola PA.
Services will be held on Monday, April 4, 2016 at 11:30AM at the church.
Burial will be at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery with full military honors.
Memorial contributions may be made to his church at 265 Enola Dr. Enola PA 17025.
The Sullivan Funeral Home is honored to serve the Rickenbachs.