Anthony F. Rice

Anthony F. Rice, 80, passed away peacefully at Luther Acres in Lititz on September 28, 2025. Born on May 16, 1945, in Ephrata, he was the son of the late Frederick H. & Dorothy (Spangler) Rice, and the loving husband of Jana F. (Slater) Rice for 51 blessed years until her passing in 2021.

Anthony was a 1963 graduate of Ephrata High School and was a proud member of the United States Army, serving from 1964 to 1967 as an equipment operator in Germany with the Third Armor Division. His military service reflected his strong sense of duty, and his skills quickly promoted him to Sergeant E-5. His passion for service and undeniable strength were characteristics that would guide him throughout his life. Before serving his country, Anthony laid the groundwork for a successful career in maintenance and electric work with Ephrata Borough, where he honed his skills in road work and more. His journey in the electrical field continued after his time in the service at PP&L, where he devoted 35 years to various roles, ultimately retiring in 2003 as a lineman and material handler. During his expansive life, Anthony was an active member of several organizations, including the Ephrata American Legion Post 429, the Cocalico Sportsmen's Association in West Cocalico Township, and serving on the board of directors for the Northern Lancaster Game and Fish Protective Association, where he also volunteered in maintaining the rifle range and donated money and resources. He was also a lifetime member of the NRA and AMVETS. His passions extended to hunting and fishing, gun collecting, and hand loading ammunition, along with an enjoyment of watching fishing and hunting shows and World War II documentaries.

Above all, Anthony was deeply devoted to his family. He was a loving husband who cherished his wife, considering her the center of his universe. For the last 12 years of her illness, he took on the role of caretaker, demonstrating unwavering love and support. His contributions to the lives of those he loved and the community he served will be remembered fondly.

Anthony is survived by three children, Douglas A. Rice (Heather) of Lancaster; Scott Rice of Spring City; and Wendie S. Sauder (Nelson) of Denver, as well as his five grandchildren: Andrew D. Gehron-Rice, Benjamin L. Gehron-Rice, Joshua S. Rice, Naleah J. Sauder, and Danika P. Sauder. He is also survived by his sister, Sonja Burkholder, and his brother, David (DelRay) Rice.

A viewing will be held on October 2, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Good Sipler Funeral & Cremation Centre, Inc. located at 34-38 N. Reamstown Road in Reamstown, Pennsylvania. Anthony will be laid to rest next to his wife at Bowman Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, contributions are appreciated to the Ephrata Amvets Post 136; 614 S State St, Ephrata, PA 17522.