Jane A. Arndt, 73, of Alburtis, died Dec. 8, 2023, unexpectedly. She was the wife of Aurel M. Arndt for 50 years. Born in Harrisburg, she was the daughter of the late Donald Karl Weidner and Elizabeth (McCurley) Gardener.

At age seven, the family moved to Prospect Hill Farm, Berks County, where she nurtured a deep devotion to the family homestead.

She left the farm to marry her husband at age 23. She raised the children largely at Arndt’s Corner in Lower Macungie Township. Animals were everywhere there - dogs, cats, horses, sheep, goats, chickens, ducks, a goose, a nasty rooster and maybe more since forgotten.

In 1999, she returned to the family homestead where she ran a bed-and-breakfast and hosted outdoor weddings providing a beautiful place for a new couple to begin life together.

After a decade or so, she “retired” to focus her attention on the newly arriving grandchildren. Her role shifted as the years progressed, but most knew she’d be ready with hot chocolate after sledding or an icy cup of home-brewed tea to sit by the pond and relax.

She was active in the programs of Huff’s Church where she played bells, sang in the choir, organized musical events, led a Bible study group and a committee to reach out to shut-ins and others in need.

Most of all we will miss her big smile, hearty laugh and warm hugs and calming fragrance of Chanel No. 5.

She is survived by her husband; children, Jenny and her husband, Carl Frei, Sarah and her husband, Adam Rau, Tommy and his wife, Diana, Susannah and her husband, Carl Detwiler; grandchildren and one great-grandchild, Brianna Laughlin, Noah, Abby Laughlin, Aidan Rau, Libby Detwiler, Gracie Rau, Clara Detwiler, Carlie Jane Miller, Alexa.

Contributions may be made to Huff’s Union Church, Alburtis, 18011 or Bally Ambulance Association, 537 Chestnut St., P.O. Box 353, Bally, 19503.

Services will be announced at a later date. Arrangements are being handled by the Bachman, Kulik & Reinsmith Funeral Home, Emmaus.