Dollie E. Bossler

Dollie E. Bossler, 103, passed away peacefully on January 16, 2025, at Phoebe Berks surrounded by family and friends. With sunshine on her shoulders, she was born on April 19, 1921, in Ontelaunee Township, she lived a life marked by service, pioneering spirit, faith, and overwhelming devotion to her family. Like other members of her family, Dollie answered to the needs of the world serving as a proud member of the U.S. Coast Guard, a testament to her bravery and commitment to serving her country. Following her military service, she pursued her passion for beauty and helping others, owning her own salon until 1990. Her artistic talents and nurturing nature made her not only a successful businesswoman but also a cherished friend, mother, and mentor to many. Serving proudly in World War II, being a full time mother, and running a business, Dollie truly embodied all of the hallmark qualities of what many consider to be America’s greatest generation.

 Throughout her life, Dollie remained an active member of her community. She was a lifelong member of Epiphany Lutheran Church, where she enjoyed singing hymns teaching Sunday School and serving on the Church Council. Later in life she regularly attended services at the Phoebe Berks chapel, and even as her voice became more timid her faith remained a strong central pillar of her life, always guiding her actions and relationships. Additionally, Dollie was a member of The Women Veterans of Berks County, PA, where she connected with fellow service members who shared her experiences and values. Dollie leaves behind a legacy of love and strength through her children: Raymond V. Bossler, Robert T. Bossler, Connie Y. Skipper, wife of David, and Timothy B. Bossler. Her family was a source of great joy for her, and she took immense pride in their achievements. Dollie's spirit lives on through her grandchildren Corrine Fetherolf, Elaina Pagels, wife of Alex Pagels, Erika Alba, wife of Manuel Alba, Christopher Skipper, husband of Gina Skipper, and Jennifer Elliker, wife of Alexander Elliker, as well as her ten great-grandchildren, Finn Skipper, Turck Skipper, Juliette Elliker, Memphis Elliker, Maddex Hicks, Liam Fetherolf, Paxton Fetherolf, Pepper Pagels, Miles Alba and Piper Alba all of whom she adored deeply. She is preceded in death by her husband, Raymond H. Bossler, who provided her with unwavering love and support throughout their marriage. Dollie was also preceded by her parents, Robert C. and Ruby M. Heckman, and her siblings, Robert, Clifford, Melvin, and Vernon Heckman.

Dollie’s family wishes to express deep appreciation for the extraordinary kindness provided by caregivers and staff of Phoebe Berks Health Center and Heartland Hospice.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Dollie’s honor should be made to Phoebe Ministries (Please write in the memo area: Donation for Phoebe Berks Activity Department) and sent to the attention of:

Tracy Mason Administrator

Phoebe Berks HCC, 1 Heidelberg Drive, Wernersville, PA 19565.

 A celebration of life will be held at the Phoebe Berks Chapel on Saturday, June 28 at 11:00 AM with a private military gravesite service being held immediately following at St. Johns Gernant’s Chruch, Leesport, PA.