Barry Allen Gangwer went home to his Lord and Savior on May 7, 2023. Born October 22, 1951, He was the son of the late Harry L. Gangwer, 3rd and Thelma M. (Rohde) Gangwer. He married the love of his life, Ann (Ziegler) Gangwer on
June 13, 1987
A native and lifelong resident of Weatherly Barry attend the community’s schools graduating WAHS in the class of 1969. He attended Mansfield State College (University) and various professional schools throughout his career.
Barry embarked on a 13-year stint in the Hotel/Hospitality industry growing into various management positions at resorts in the Poconos, Williamsport, and Wilkes-Barre areas. He was owner of the Rainbow Coffee Shop in Weatherly providing his customers with homemade meals as well ice cream from 1985-1992.
Mr. Gangwer started a new venture in 1990 by joining with several well-known insurance and financial services companies until his recent retirement. During this time Barry attained many professional designations, among them ChFC, LUTCF, FIC and others. He was part of a special program from the American College in Bryn Mawr, PA. Receiving his CLU designation at a special ceremony during a national insurance event in Philadelphia.
Barry was an active member of the communities he served. He was a member of the Weatherly Jaycees, a founding member, a Past President of the Weatherly Rotary Club, the Weatherly Community Chest, Hazleton Community Concerts, Tamaqua Chamber of Commerce, among others. He was also instrumental in bringing quality entertainment and events from diversified locations such as Nashville and St. Petersburg Russia to the Weatherly area.
Barry’s love and dedication to The Lord Jesus inspired him to serving in various ministries in the churches he attended. He was a past president, council member, Bible Study teacher, musician, arranger and composer and representative to church events. He was most recently a member of St. John's Lutheran Church on Vine St. In Hazleton.
Barry was a noted musician, playing Oboe, English Horn, and Clarinet in various area concert bands and orchestras including the Hazleton Philharmonic. The Lehighton Band, Zion Opera Workshop and Zion Festival Orchestras were his musical home for over 35 years. He enjoyed playing for people receiving immense joy from seeing people enjoying the concerts and shows. In recent years he added his unique knowledge and sense of humor as host of the Lehighton Band Concerts.
Mr. Gangwer became a lover of Classical Music at an early age. His devotion led to the creation of a massive library of thousands of LP records and CDs. This library became the source of the Weatherly Library’s music appreciation program that spanned 25 sessions. The program was presented to hundreds of new listeners of Classical music throughout Carbon, Schuylkill, and Luzerne counties.
Barry and Ann enjoyed traveling, especially to historic sites. He often arranged a special tour, meet, and greet or meal surprise to make their time together special.
Barry was blessed with a unique sense of humor, having just the right touch of spontaneity and timing to be king of the family one liner.
Barry is survived by his wife Ann and her family who welcomed him as a brother, uncle, and friend. He is also survived by several beloved cousins from the Lehigh Valley and Stroudsburg areas.
Arrangements entrusted to the care of the Philip J. Jeffries Funeral Home & Cremation Services of 211 First Street Weatherly, Pennsylvania 18255. (570) 427-4231
A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Sunday May 21, 2023 at 3 o'clock P.M. from St. John's Lutheran Church 621 North Vine Street Hazleton, Pennsylvania 18210, Rev. Gordon Naumann to officiate.
Refreshments to follow.
In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to:
St. John’s Lutheran Church, 621 N. Vine St. Hazleton, PA 18201
The Lehighton Band
Carbon County Animal Shelter
Weatherly Area Community Library
Online condolences can be expressed by visiting
www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com