Melvin “Mel” R. Gildner, 75, of Washington Township, died Sept. 26, 2021.

The son of the late Harry and Sadie (Jones) Gildner, he was the husband of Carol A (Roth) Gildner.

He was the founder/developer of Chestnut Hill Development, served on the school board of Allentown Christian School faithfully for four years, and was active in various ways for Salem Christian School.

He was a member of Bethany Wesleyan Church, Cherryville, in which he helped with many church meals and senior functions/activities and former member of Trinity Wesleyan Church of Allentown.

After serving honorably in the U.S. Navy, he went to work for Jaindl Farms, Orefield, for more than 40 years.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by a daughter Jasmine, wife of Justin Hertzler, of Slatington; sister Betty A Galio of Slatington; one beautiful granddaughter, Ariel; and many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by six brothers, three sisters, one half-brother and one half-sister.

Expressions of sympathy may be made at heintzelmancares.com.

Memorial contributions may be made to the church c/o the funeral home, P.O Box 196, Schnecksville, PA 18078-0196.

Arrangements were made by Heintzelman Funeral Home Inc., Schnecksville.