Anne M Breiling, 91, went to be with God on July 19, 2022 at Spring Mill Senior Living in Phoenixville, Pennsylvania. Anne was born in Schenectady, New York on February 4, 1931. Her parents were Elsie and Arthur Merrill.
She went to St Lawrence University in New York and sang in the college choir. Anne graduated from St Lawrence with a degree in music. After graduation, she worked at a radio station.
Also, Anne got involved in a community theater, The Civic Players, where she directed and acted in plays. It was at that theater, where Anne met Robert Breiling, who she married in 1955. Their first child, Grace, was born in Schenectady, like her mother. Anne and Robert moved around a lot, in their early years together. After leaving Schenectady, they lived in Massachusetts, in the towns of Marblehead, and Beverly. After that, they lived in Utica, New York, (house #4) where their second child, Margaret was born. The family moved to Pennsylvania and settled in the Valley Forge area, where they lived for more than 50 years.
Anne joined a chess club, where she became the secretary. Besides chess, Anne liked playing cards, and enjoyed playing games with her children. She also gave piano lessons in the area. Anne's two younger children, Leila and Chett were born in Phoenixville. The family joined St Peters Pikeland United Church of Christ in Chester Springs. Anne become very involved there, and made new friends. Anne sang in the choir at St Peters for more than 50 years. Also, she helped to start a junior choir for children. Anne directed the Junior Choir at church for about 35 years.
She was also involved in the community. Anne and her husband, Bob, were in the group that started Forge Theater in Phoenixville, in the 1960's. Anne directed, and acted in plays at Forge. She also sang in community concerts at St John's Lutheran Church for many years. Music was always an important part of Anne's life. She especially loved Classical music. Anne played the piano at home, and her family enjoyed hearing her play. She also taught piano to her children. She loved people, and had many friends. Anne loved her family, her friends, and her church. Anne embraced life…
Anne is survived by four children, Grace Merryman and husband Richard, Margaret Breiling, Leila Roderick and husband John, and Charles Breiling and wife Jeanie; and eight grandchildren, Christine, Raymond, Alex, Tommy, Orion, Mars, Andromeda, and Mercury.
A memorial service will be held for Anne Breiling on Saturday, August 13 at 11:00 am. Family visitation will be at 10:00. The service will take place at St. Peter's Pikeland United Church of Christ, 1193 Clover Mill Road, Chester Springs, Pa. 19425. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St Peters Pikeland UCC in loving memory of Anne Breiling.
Arrangements are being handled by the Campbell-Ennis-Klotzbach Funeral Home, Inc. Condolences may be offered online at www.PhoenixvilleFuneralHome.com.
Shortly following the service, a recording of the service will be available for viewing on the funeral home website.