Obituaries

Alice May (Friday) Mensch, 97, went to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on February 18, 2024. She enjoyed a full life and was known for her steadfast faith, heart-warming smile, and her desire to serve her family and others.

Born on July 2, 1926, to Adolph and Lena (Fetterman) Friday in the mining village of Wilburton #2, PA, Alice was the fifth of ten children and had deep, loving bonds with her parents and siblings. She received her early education in Wilburton and graduated from Connyngham Township High School.

On November 22, 1944, she married the love of her life, Marvin, in Sunbury PA, and learned and loved her vital role on the family homestead where she dedicated her life work to her husband and family. Alice was an early riser and was found at the kitchen table with coffee and her open Bible before her day began. You see, she knew the Prince of Peace, where to look, and from where her eternal hope came. One of her many favorite verses is found in Psalm 121:1-2 NIV “I lift up my eyes to the mountains—where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.”

Saturday mornings were filled with sweet aromas of cakes, pies, cookies, and breads with broadcasts from the Christian radio station. Alice enjoyed experimenting with new recipes, planning menus for holidays/ special occasions, and serving—this was her love language. She was a resourceful provider, gardener, and seamstress. Alice also had an adventurous side including travel, long walks, riding motorcycle and four-wheeling with her sweetheart, Marvin.

Alice also enjoyed learning and volunteering. For many years, she served with leaders at the local 4-H club where together they taught young neighbor children valuable life skills. In later years, she was active in the Awana program in Sunbury as a group leader, helping children learn and recite Bible verses. She also loved the fellowship working in the kitchen at Bible camp and engaging with campers. She enjoyed the teaching and friendships at the Danville First Baptist Church.

She loved her children, Elaine Buch (James) of Marco Island, Florida, Gregory Mensch (Cynthia) of Auburn, Gail Shutt of Elysburg, and Patricia Timbers (Vincent) of State College, PA.

She will be dearly missed by her seven grandchildren, who affectionately called her Nana; Dr. Kirk Mensch (Hollye), Keith Mensch (Laura), Jennifer Marks (Chris), Dr. Jessica Buch, Kenneth Mensch (Tiffani), Lindsay Ball (Matthew), Bradley Mensch (Tracy), and her eight great-grandchildren and one on the way.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Marvin, of 72 years who went home to the Lord in March 2017.Also preceding her are her brothers Paul, Alfred, Clair, and Adolph “Smitty” Friday, and sisters Becky Fagley, Nancy Kostenbauder, and Ruth Carpenter. She is survived by sisters Lena Patricia Bloomfield and Donna (Brian) Deely.

Her servant heart and friendship has touched our lives, and her kindness and love will be with us forever. Please draw comfort and strength from the knowledge that Alice is rejoicing in the very presence of her Savior and Lord.

Alice's family wishes to thank all her friends and extended family for the love, support, and prayers. We appreciate the support and care shown by Lead Pastor Dawes J. Dunham and his wife, Brenda, through the years. Many thanks to the staff members at Nottingham Village who fell in love with her--you know who you are.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Celebration of Life for Alice on Friday, February 23, 2024, at 1:00 PM at First Baptist Church, 12 Brookside Drive, Danville, PA with Reverend Dawes J. Dunham officiating. Friends will be received from 11:30am to 12:45pm. Interment at Pine Hill Cemetery, Elysburg, will be private at the convenience of the family.

The family will provide flowers. Memorial contributions may be made to First Baptist Church Fellowship Fund.

Arrangements are under the direction of Visneski Funeral Home, Inc 42 West Mahoning Street Danville PA 17821. www.visneski.com.