Leonard L. Epting

Leonard Luther Epting, 81, of Mertztown, PA set sail on December 11th, 2025.

Born January 2, 1944, in Topton, PA, he was the son of the late Luther T. Epting and Elsie L. (Younger) Epting.

Leonard is survived by his beloved wife of 60 years, Karen J. (Gambler) Epting, his daughter Tracey Epting Tancredi, and his siblings Patricia (Epting) Andrews (wife of the late Carlton Andrews), Barry Epting and his wife Barbara (Berger) Epting, Kay (Epting) Evans (wife of Dennis Evans). He was predeceased by his sisters Doris (Epting) Stevens and Betty (Epting) Hertzog.

Leonard also leaves behind his devoted son-in-law, David A. Tancredi, and his two granddaughters, Alexis Tancredi and Ashley Tancredi (wife of Jaeden Weston).

Those who knew Leonard appreciated his quick wit and knack for getting a rise out of people - always with that disarming smile that let you know he was in on the joke. His clever sarcasm was part of his charm. Underneath that playfulness was a genuine kindness. He didn't extend his loyalty casually, but when he did, it was steadfast and true.

Leonard was a 1961 graduate of Brandywine Heights Area High School.

He spent 27 years working at Stroh Brewery, though he began his career at Caloric Corporation a decade before, where he was set up on a blind date with Karen. That one evening led to sixty-one years together of marriage, friendship and unending laughter and fun.

Leonard was deeply rooted in his community and his faith. He was a member of the Topton Fire Company, serving as 3rd Assistant Fire Chief in 1964. He joined the Topton Jaycees in 1961 and was honored as Outstanding Citizen and Outstanding Young Man in 1974. At Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church in Topton, PA, he served as Property Chairperson from 1966 to 2023, Sexton from 2017 to 2024, as well as serving on the Church Council. Leonard also contributed countless hours to The Brandywine Minstrel Shows, working on set design with the stage and scene crew to raise funds for school activities.

Leonard and Karen traveled extensively, creating memories with close friends across countless destinations over decades.

In his retirement, Leonard detailed cars with his brother Barry, and could often be found at his daughter's machining business, genuinely fascinated by the work being done there. He'd often take a few sample components that he shared with enthusiasm and pride among family, friends and acquaintances.

Leonard's legacy is one of loyalty, quiet strength, dignity and servitude. He taught us that a life well-lived is not measured in grand gestures, but in the quality of the friendships we keep and the consistent ways we show up for the people we love.

Leonard's immediate and extended family wish to invite anyone who knew and loved Leonard to his Celebration of Life Dinner Party on Saturday, January 3rd, 2026, from 3:00-7:00 PM at the Bear Creek Mountain Resort, 101 Doe Mountain Lane, Macungie, PA 18062.

Please RSVP by December 30th via email to leonardeptingparty@gmail.com with your name and number of attendees.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Hydrocephalus Association (www.hydroassoc.org), or Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church Memorial Endowment Fund, "In memory of Leonard Luther Epting".

Ludwick Funeral Homes and Cremation Care, Inc., Topton, PA is in charge of arrangements. Memories and condolences may be shared by visiting Leonard's obituary tribute page at www.Ludwickfh.com.