Alan B. Ziegler, 76, of Cumru Township, entered eternal rest on Thursday, March 20, 2025. Born on October 6, 1948, in Buffalo, NY, he was a son of the late James M. Ziegler and Sylvia (Loos) Ziegler. In addition to his parents, Alan was greeted in heaven by his siblings, Thomas M. Ziegler, James W. Ziegler, John E. Ziegler, and Carol Ann Carter.
Alan’s story begins in Buffalo, where he graduated from West Seneca High School in 1967. His journey took him to SUNY Binghamton (Harper College), where he earned his degree in 1971, followed by Temple University Law School, where he completed his studies in 1976. As an attorney, Alan spent nearly 50 years leaving a lasting mark on the Reading community. He retired in 2024, allowing him to shift his focus from litigation to enjoying his personal passions.
Alan was a formidable pinochle player with a competitive streak and a heart of gold. His work as a counselor at the Pathway School in Norristown, PA, not only underscored his commitment to helping disabled youth but also set the stage for meeting his beloved wife, Shirley. Together, they shared a deep love for service, evident in his long-standing dedication to the Reading community—as both an attorney and a leader at the First Baptist Church of Reading on 5th and Chestnut, where he enjoyed teaching a Men’s Bible Study for several years. From his days with the Kenhorst Lions Club (1978-1987) to his adventures on ski trips and his cheers for the Buffalo Bills and Philadelphia Phillies, Alan's life was full of color, laughter, and stories worth retelling.
In 2010, Alan was introduced to the world of grandparenthood, and boy, did he take to it with pride. Doting on his seven grandchildren, he passed on his legacy of humor, leadership, and love. His influence will forever be remembered by all who called him Dad or Pop.
Rest easy, Alan. You were a lawyer, a counselor, a husband, a father, a grandfather, a brother, and, without a doubt, the best pinochle partner anyone could ask for. You may have left this world, but your influence remains, like a perfectly executed closing argument or that one card played at the last second that wins the game. Always remembered, always cherished, and never objected to.
Alan's spirit will continue to live on through his devoted wife, Shirley (Sprague) Ziegler; his son, Christopher A. Ziegler (Kathleen); his daughter, Jennifer L. Jackson (Richard); and his seven beloved grandchildren: Ryland, Beckett, Bryce, Kendall, Lilianna, Logan, and Juliette. He is also survived by his siblings: Joseph D. Ziegler (Carla), Donna J. Kaiser (Thomas), and Lynn E. Geist (Bruce).
A viewing for Alan will be held on Friday, March 28, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Auman's Inc. Funeral Home, 390 W. Neversink Rd., Reading, PA 19606. Prayer service will commence in the funeral home at 11:00 AM. Graveside committal will immediately follow at Forest Hills Memorial Park, 390 W. Neversink Rd., Reading, PA 19606.
