James Ardelle Chandler, age 87, of New Bethlehem, passed away Monday evening, August 22, 2016, at his home, following an illness.

     Born November 13, 1928 at his family home in Porter Township, Clarion County, he was a son of the late Earl B. and Carrie M. Lerch Chandler.

     He married the former Nancy Margaret Stewart on June 8, 1950 and she survives.

     Jim loved farming and owned and operated his farm in Porter Township for 50 years until a farming accident.  He retired from PENNDOT as an engineer after 28 years of service.

    He was an elder and member of the Oakwood Presbyterian Church, until it closed.  He and his brother, Paul, were known and the “hardly able crew” while maintaining the church.     

    Jim was known as a great mechanic and enjoyed tinkering in his garage, working with his hands, playing cards and solving cryptograms and puzzles.

   He loved spending time outdoors and with his family.

     Survivors include his wife, Nancy; one son:  Andrew Chandler and wife, Lisa, of Brookville; four daughters:  Margaret Watkins and husband, David, of New Bethlehem; Connie Snyder and husband, Barry, of New Bethlehem; Sandra Barrett and husband, Ken, of Kellersburg and Carrye-Lynne Barrett and husband, Ronald, of New Bethlehem.

     Jim is also survived by a brother, Paul Chandler of New Bethlehem; daughter-in-law, Beth Chandler of Meadville; 17 grandchildren and 23 great grandchildren.

    In addition to his parents, Jim was preceded in death by a son, Earle James Chandler; granddaughter, Gretchen Elizabeth Snyder; three brothers:  Duprell, Claire and John; two sisters:  Dorothy and infant Norma and a sister-in-law, Betty Chandler.

     At Jim’s request, there will be no calling hours.

     The Chandler family asks that family and friends join them for an open house to celebrate Jim’s life.  The open house will be held from 2-4 p.m. Saturday, August 27, 2016 at 415 Vine Street, New Bethlehem.   

     Interment will take place in the Squirrel Hill Cemetery in Porter Township.

     Memorial contributions may be given in the name of James Ardelle Chandler to the Redbank Valley Public Library, 720 Broad Street, New Bethlehem, PA  16242.

    Arrangement are under the direction of the Rupert Funeral Home and Cremation Service of New Bethlehem.

     Online condolences may be sent to Jim’s family at www.rupertfuneralhomes.com

 Service Information