Esther D. (Peckman) Golbitz

WILLIAMSPORT - Esther D. (Peckman) Golbitz, 86, died peacefully in her home on Wednesday, September 14, 2011 surrounded by her family. Esther was born on September 6, 1925 in Minersville, PA. She was the daughter of the late Morris and Anna (Nerenberg) Peckman. After high school graduation in 1943, Esther worked in her parent’s family grocery business, Peckman’s Superette, until her marriage to the late Jacob “Jake” Golbitz in 1956. They celebrated 24 years of marriage together. Esther was the owner of “The Barn” Williamsport’s Fabric Center from 1956 to 1998. Following retirement and until recently, Esther remained actively involved in the decision-making aspects of the business. She was a member of Congregation Ohev Sholom, past member of Sisterhood and past chairperson for the Annual Sisterhood Dance and Synagogue Gift Shop. Additionally, Esther was a lifetime member of Hadassah, served as president of the Williamsport Chapter of Hadassah and was a member of Hadassah’s regional board. Esther is survived by son and daughter-in-law; Gary and Carol Golbitz of Williamsport, daughter and son-in-law; Lisa and Barry Goldfarb of Westfield, NJ, four grandchildren; Jacob Golbitz of Williamsport and Jana, Andrew and Zachary Goldfarb of Westfield, NJ, two step-grandchildren; Erin Ruhl of Williamsport and Kevin Barrett of Pittsburgh and many nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews. In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by one brother; Nathan Peckman and one sister; Reba Frankel. The funeral will be held 11:30 a.m. Friday, September 16, 2011 at the Allen & Redmond Funeral Home, 331 Elmira St., Williamsport, with her spiritual leader, Rabbi Shaul Rappeport officiating. Burial will be held in Ohev Sholom Cemetery, Williamsport. In keeping with Jewish tradition, there will be no viewing or flowers. Memorial contributions can be made to “Hadassah”, c/o Jean Staiman, 135 Grampian Blvd, Williamsport, PA 17701.