02/18/2026
She brought a smile to so many faces as they entered the office. The sign on the wall said, “Do you want to talk to the man in charge or the woman who knows what’s going on?” She will be missed by so many.
Susan Burkholder, 74, of Stevens, passed away on Sunday, February 15, 2026, at her home with her family by her side.
She was born in Bronx, NY, to the late Ralph and Jean (Cohen) Shebitz and was the wife of Michael Burkholder, with whom she shared 55 years of marriage.
She was a member of Hopeland United Methodist Church, Lititz. Susan and Mike owned Foundry Tire Co. in Clay, now proudly owned and operated by their son, Seth. In her younger years, Susan enjoyed the outdoors, including camping, and especially water sports like boating and as a teenager she even enjoyed surfing. Above all else, Susan found her greatest joy in her family, especially spending time with her grandchildren.
In addition to her husband, Susan is survived by three children, Chad, husband of Janine Burkholder, Sarah, wife of Ryan Wertz, Seth, husband of Kelly Burkholder; six grandchildren, Blake Wertz, Jenna Wertz, Hannah Burkholder, Dylan Burkholder, Adam Burkholder, Kara Burkholder-Corza, wife of Cristian Corza, and Susan’s brother Henry Shebitz, husband of Rosalie Anchordoguy.
A celebration of life service will be held on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at 11:00 AM, at Hopeland United Methodist Church, 295 North Clay Road, Lititz. Inurnment will be private at the convenience of the family.
To honor Susan’s memory, in lieu of flowers, donations to Gentiva Hospice are welcomed. Donations may be made online at: https://www.gentivahs.com/patient-and-family-resources/donate/
Arrangements by Stradling Funeral Homes, Inc., Akron/Ephrata. Online condolences can be given at stradlingfuneralhome.com.
