Russell L. Wanner

Russell L. Wanner, 75, passed away peacefully in his residence on Wednesday, December 6, 2023. 

Russell was born in Reading on October 11th, 1948, the son of the late Betty M. (Lonaberger) Hivner and Russell W. Wanner. 

He was a 1967 graduate of Muhlenburg High School and was retired from Verizon after being employed there for 33 years.  Russell, who earned a Sergeant rank, proudly served in the United States Army and the Vietnam War. 

He was an avid outdoorsman and gun collector who enjoyed hunting and fishing.  Russ, who loved riding his Harley Davidson motorcycles, was once an officer and member of the Reading Motorcycle Club (RMC) where he volunteered many hours for various events.  He lived life to the absolute fullest, he worked hard, played hard but most importantly he loved hard.  He will be remembered for his beautiful smile, his laugh, his sense of humor, being wild and adventurous, living life on the edge and loving people with his whole heart. 

Left to cherish his memory and ensure his legacy lives on are his 3 children, Steven J. Wanner, husband to Lynette of Lafayette, IN; Eliza B., wife of Craig E. Weatherholtz, of St Pete Beach, FL; and Justin L. Wanner, of Williamsport, PA.; his brother Michael Hivner, of Robesonia, PA; his 8 grandchildren, 2 great-grandchildren and a nephew.  He was predeceased by his brother Bruce and a niece.

Viewing on Wednesday, December 13, 2023 from 6:00-8:00 PM at Klee Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc., One East Lancaster Ave., Shillington. Graveside service with military honors on Thursday, December 14, 2023 at 2:00 PM in Indiantown Gap National Cemetery, Annville, PA. Funeral procession will depart the funeral home on Thursday at 12:30 PM. www.kleefuneralhome.com

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