Linwood Robert Ohlinger
Linwood Robert Ohlinger ’69, of Bern Township, passed away on Jan. 26, 2024.
Linwood Robert “Woody” Ohlinger, 72 of Bern Township, died January 26, 2024, in Berks Heim. He was married on July 4, 1998, to Diane Louise (Weaver) Ohlinger. Born February 27, 1951, in Reading, PA, he was the son of the late Russell W. and Grace M. (Hafer) Ohlinger.
Woody was a part of the 1969 graduating class of Milton Hershey High School. He was an Army Med-evac pilot Veteran of the Vietnam Conflict. Woody and his dalmatian, Snorkel, were fixtures at the Wyomissing Fire Company. His presence in the fire service was known beyond county lines as he could always be found at The Pennsylvania State Firemen’s convention or judging local fireman parades. He was a firefighter and engineer for 25 years, before retiring September 12, 2013.
He was a life member of the Berks County Fireman’s Association. Woody was a member of the Reading Fire Museum. He loved attending his grandchildren’s sporting events along with train rides, baseball, and hockey games.
Woody was known for his sense of humor and ability to make light of any situation, and was always up for an impromptu trip to any food destination on the East coast, Yocco’s being his beloved favorite.
Woody is also survived by his four children: Jennifer Ohlinger-Fantaski, wife of James Fantaski, of Shillington; Sean M., husband of Carissa Canto of Rochester Hills, Michigan; Tina (Canto), wife of Jeffrey Smith, of East Earl, PA; and Beth (Canto) Hiester of Muhlenberg Township.
He was the proud grandfather to 10 grandchildren: Grace, Jeffrey, Melissa, Mackenzie, Allessandra, Camdyn, Antonio, Liberty, Emerson, and Lola. Woody was predeceased by his sister, Yvonne Elaine (Ohlinger) Ervine (1943-1979). Graveside Services will be held Thursday at 11:00 am in Fairview Cemetery, 500 South Sterley Street, Shillington.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Reading Fire Museum, 501 5th Street, Reading, PA 19602. Stitzel Family Funeral Homes & Crematory, Inc., Laureldale is in charge of arrangements. For online condolences, visit www.StitzelFamilyFuneralHomes.com