She enjoyed sitting back and reading a good book and traveling to different places, especially the beach and to Savannah, GA.

celebration of Annette’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, January 28, 2025 at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, 519 Walnut St, Columbia, PA 17512.

The family will receive friends for visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. until service time.

The family requests that if attending, please wear bright colors.

 

Annette Louise Simione, 64, of York, went to be with Jesus and reunite with the love of her life, Mike, on January 22, 2025. She was born in Columbia to the late Harold and Ellen Campbell Murry and was a lifelong resident of this area.

Annette was a graduate of Hempfield High School with the Class of 1978 and went on to graduate from nursing school. After being a nurse for a number of years she decided to become a long-haul truck driver and traveled all over the country. However, her desire to help others brought her back to nursing where she had been employed for the last thirteen years with White Deer Run of York. Annette was a devout Christian who loved the Lord and would help anyone she could. She enjoyed sitting back and reading a good book and traveling to different places, especially the beach and to Savannah, GA. Annette was a devoted mother, grandmother, sister, and aunt who adored her family and treasured spending time with them.

Annette leaves behind her children, Nick, husband of Shelby Simione of Akron, Christina Simione of Berkeley Springs, WV, Melissa; nine grandchildren: L, Cassidy, Trinity, Jose, Nicholas, Jr., Trenton, Mariah, Jazelle, and Jameson; six siblings, Alma Cornelius of Columbia, Tish, wife of Rick Noll of Columbia, John, husband of Carol Murry of Smyrna, DE, Kathy, wife of Mac Adams of Myrtle Beach, SC, Barb Abel of York, Shane, husband of Laurie Murry of Maryland; numerous nieces and nephews and a large extended family. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother Michael Murry.

A celebration of Annette’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, January 28, 2025 at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, 519 Walnut St, Columbia, PA 17512. The family will receive friends for visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. until service time. The family requests that if attending, please wear bright colors. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the ALS Association, 1300 Wilson Blvd, Suite 600
Arlington, VA 22209.

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Butch will be remembered for his generous spirit and deep connection with his family and friends.

Funeral services will be celebrated at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 409 Cherry St., Columbia, PA 17512, on Thursday, January 30, 2025, at 11:00 a.m.

Family and friends may call at the church from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service.

 

Roger K. “Butch” Cranford, Jr., 77, of Lancaster, passed away peacefully on January 20, 2025, surrounded by his loving family after an extended illness. He was the devoted husband of Aileen Rettew Cranford, the love of his life, with whom he shared 59 wonderful years of marriage.

Born in Columbia, Butch was the son of the late Roger K. Sr. and Helen Stabinski Cranford. A proud 1967 graduate of Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology, he pursued his passion for automobiles by opening an auto body and custom paint shop on 9th Street in Columbia, which he operated until 1972. Following that, he began a 35-year career with Nationwide Insurance as an auto claims representative, eventually becoming a special claims representative certified in fire and arson detection. He retired in 2007, leaving behind a legacy of dedication and professionalism. He was a parishioner of Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Columbia.

Butch was a beloved father, grandfather, brother, and friend, known for his unwavering love and devotion to his family. Above all else, Butch was a true family man, and his greatest joy was spending time with those he held dear.

Whether gathered around the kitchen table for hours of conversation or enjoying the peaceful serenity of the family home in Cape May, Butch always made sure to create lasting memories with his loved ones. His days were filled with simple yet meaningful pleasures—eating crabs, boating, fishing, sitting on the beach, and watching the sunset with the people he loved. These moments will forever be cherished by all who were lucky enough to share them with him.

In his younger years, Butch found joy in hunting, trapping, and exploring the great outdoors. He was often seen boating, kayaking, water skiing, or fishing on the Susquehanna River, where he felt most at home. As the years passed, Butch’s passions shifted toward supporting the next generation, and one of his greatest joys in recent years was attending his grandson’s sporting events. He watched with pride as he cheered them on, always eager to be a part of his family’s milestones.

Butch will be remembered for his generous spirit and deep connection with his family and friends. He leaves a legacy of love, laughter, and memories that will be cherished forever.

In addition to his beloved wife, Aileen, Butch is survived by his two sons: Eric S. Cranford, husband of Jody, and Shane E. Cranford, husband of Jennifer. He is also survived by two grandchildren, Will and Alex Cranford, and two step-grandchildren, Shawn and Nicole. His sister, Marie Starr, and numerous in-laws, nieces, and nephews also mourn his passing.

Funeral services will be celebrated at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 409 Cherry St., Columbia, PA 17512, on Thursday, January 30, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., with the Rev. Daniel C. Mitzel officiating. Family and friends may call at the church from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service. Interment will take place at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Boys Town, 200 Flanagan Blvd., PO Box 6000, Boys Town, NE 68010-9988, or online at www.boystown.org/give.

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Edwin was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting, fishing, and walking the mountains of McConnellsburg and Needmore in Fulton County, where he and his wife eventually both retired.

A celebration of Edwin’s life will be held at a later date and will be announced by his family.

 

Edwin R. Brown, 82, of Lancaster and formerly of Needmore (Fulton County), passed away peacefully at home, on January 16, 2025. He was born in Columbia to the late Melvin Charles Sr. and Alice Brown.

Edwin attended Lancaster Catholic High School and proudly served in the United States Navy on the USS Forrestal. Following his service, he worked at Herr & Sacco for thirty-four years until his retirement. Edwin was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting, fishing, and walking the mountains of McConnellsburg and Needmore in Fulton County, where he and his wife eventually both retired. He was a loving son, husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother, and uncle who always put his family first and treasured every moment he had with them. Edwin was a member of Newtown United Methodist Church in Columbia.

Edwin leaves behind his loving wife of almost fifty-three years Mary Brown of Lancaster; two beloved daughters, Lori, wife of Eric Findley of Quarryville, Jennifer Brown of Lancaster; four grandchildren, Haydn Wolpert (& Bri Weaver), Austin Findley (& wife, Hannah), Liam Findley, and Patric Cusack; two great grandchildren, Rosalee Wolpert and Brycen Findley; five siblings, John, Sr., husband of Margaret Brown of McConnellsburg, Lougene, wife of Donald Stevens of Columbia, Barbara, wife of the late Robert Kuhns of Columbia, Sharon Strausbaugh of Silver Spring, Alyce Brown of Columbia; numerous nieces and nephews and a large extended family. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by four siblings, Melvin C. Brown, Jr., Beatrice Siltzer, Robert L. Brown, Sr., and Donald A. Brown, respectively.

Edwin was a kind, patient, moral and humble man, who instilled those same qualities into both of his daughters and grandchildren. His boundless and enduring spirit will continue to live on in them. He will truly be missed by all who knew him and will never be forgotten.

A celebration of Edwin’s life will be held at a later date and will be announced by his family. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, KS 66675-8516.

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After honorably serving the country during the Korean War in the U.S Army, he graduated from Duke University earning his Doctorate degree in American History.

A service of remembrance and time of sharing will be held at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc. 519 Walnut St. Columbia PA on Wednesday, January 29, 2025 beginning at 11:00 a.m.

Visitation one hour prior.

 

Richard R. Forry, 89 of Columbia, passed away on January 16, 2025. He was the husband of the late Nelda Mathias Forry with whom he was married 62 years until her death in 2021. Born in Hellam, he was the son of the late Elwood and Grace Forry.

After honorably serving the country during the Korean War in the U.S Army, he graduated from Duke University earning his Doctorate degree in American History. He later retired from the Missouri State Park System as a supervisor after many years of service. While residing in Missouri, he and Nelda were active with the Friends of Arrow Rock, a nonprofit historical preservation organization.

Richard is survived by his son, George R. Keyser II (Cynthia); grandchildren, Emily Gofus (Jeffrey), Ty Keyser (Jennifer), Alix Keyser-Wilson (Paul), Hallie Keyser, Taz Keyser (Kate); ten great grandchildren; his siblings, Fran Herzog, Audrey Thompson, sister-in-law, Audrey Zercher and many nieces and nephews.

A service of remembrance and time of sharing will be held at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc. 519 Walnut St. Columbia PA on Wednesday, January 22, 2025 beginning at 11:00 a.m. Visitation one hour prior. If desired, donations to the Friends of Arrow Rock, 310 Main St. PO Box 124 Arrow Rock MO 65320 in Richards memory would be deeply appreciated.

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He enjoyed traveling, playing cards and was a self-taught artist.

family AND Friends may view at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc., 519 Walnut St., Columbia, PA on Thursday evening, December 19, from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, December 20, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Peter's Catholic Church, Columbia, PA. A VIEWING WILL BE HELD ONE HOUR PRIOR TO MASS AT THE CHURCH.

Edward Hartman, 87 of Mount Joy, formerly of Columbia passed away on Saturday evening, December 14, 2024 at Hospice and Community Care. He was the husband of Thelma Mann Kreiser Hartman whom he married in 2022 and the late Margaret Melbert Hartman with whom he was married 63 years until her death in 2020. Born in Philadelphia, he was the son of the late Carl and Eleanor Smaltz Hartman.

A Columbia High School graduate, Class of 1955, Ed proudly served in the U.S.A.F. He retired in 2000 as production manager after 38 years of service from the former Donegal Industries. In his post-retirement years, he worked as a courier for the Medicine Shoppe in Columbia for 14 years. Ed was an active and devoted member of St. Peter's Catholic Church, Columbia and along with his wife enjoyed traveling, playing cards and was a self-taught artist. A people person by nature he volunteered for Hospice of Lancaster County where he assisted in the needs of veterans and in his earlier years was a member of several Columbia civic organizations.

In addition to his wife are his children, Bret Hartman; Quin Hartman (Sharon); Lea Espenshade (Byron); stepchildren, David Kreiser (Mary Frances); James Kreiser (Kathyrn); Lynn McCowan (Michael); seven grandchildren; 14 great grandchildren and his sister Judith Sharon (Wiliam).

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, December 20, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Peter's Catholic Church, 121 S. 2nd St., Columbia, PA with the Rev. Augustine Joseph, celebrant. Burial will be held at the convenience of the family. Friends may view at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc., 519 Walnut St., Columbia, PA on Thursday evening from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. and again at the church one hour prior to the mass. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project at www.woundedwarriorproject.org

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She had a love for decorating, gardening, shopping for antiques, and traveling.

Charlene’s Celebration of Life Funeral Service will be held at the Hempfield Church, 3050 Marietta Avenue, Lancaster on Friday, January 24, 2025 at 11:00 AM

There will be a visitation at the church on Friday between 10 and 11 AM.

Private interment will be in the Silver Spring Cemetery, Silver Spring.

 

Charlene Mummaw Butzer, 89, of Lancaster went to be with the Lord Jesus on Wednesday, January 8, 2025. She passed away in her Woodcrest Villa apartment where she loved spending her free time. Born in Lancaster, PA, she was the daughter of the late Charles Smith Mummaw and Arliene M. Hacker. She was married to the late Donald Butzer and they celebrated their 69th Wedding Anniversary on November 21, 2022.

Charlene spent her early years in Silver Spring, before moving to Ephrata. She was a 1953 graduate of Ephrata High School. She was also a charter member of Hempfield United Methodist Church. Charlene worked 16 years for Hempfield School District as a school secretary at Rohrerstown Elementary School. After she retired, she worked an additional 16 years for Noah’s Ark Preschool.

Charlene was a caring and loving wife, mother, and friend, and with her husband were the primary caregivers for their disabled daughter, Betsy, for over 30 years. In her retirement years, she enjoyed helping her husband with his woodworking projects. She also enjoyed spending time with her high school classmates, and all of the friends she made at Woodcrest Villa. She had a love for decorating, gardening, shopping for antiques, and traveling. During her long and full life she traveled to California, Mexico, Arizona, Minnesota, Florida, Hawaii, Nantucket, and New York. She will be missed by all who knew her. Charlene was a BIG sports fan, especially of her beloved Phillies. She also enjoyed watching Penn State football and the Philadelphia Eagles.

Charlene is survived by 2 children: daughter, Peggy, wife of Don Scheese, and son, Ronald. Charlene was also the mother of the late Betsy Butzer. Charlene is also survived by two half sisters: Beverly Frank and Trudy Hahn.

Charlene’s Celebration of Life Funeral Service will be held at the Hempfield Church, 3050 Marietta Avenue, Lancaster on Friday, January 24, 2025 at 11:00 AM with Rev. John Longmire officiating. There will be a visitation at the church on Friday between 10 and 11 AM. Private interment will be in the Silver Spring Cemetery, Silver Spring. Kindly omit flowers. Memorial Remembrances can be made in Charlene’s memory to the Hempfield Church

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Goobs loved hanging out with friends and family and visiting the Foresters in Columbia where he enjoyed playing darts and shuffleboard.

A celebration of Goobs’ life will be held on Saturday, February 8, 2025 from 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm at the Foresters’ of America, 201 Locust Street, Columbia, PA.

He will be laid to rest at Mount Bethel Cemetery.

 

Dale Peters, Jr. “Goobs”, 60, of Columbia passed away on January 12, 2025. He was born in Columbia to the late Dale, Sr. and Linda Groff Peters and was a lifelong resident of Columbia.

Goobs attended Columbia High School and worked as a painter. He was an outdoorsman who enjoyed fishing and hunting. Goobs loved hanging out with friends and family and visiting the Foresters in Columbia where he enjoyed playing darts and shuffleboard. He had a good heart and always loved helping strangers, family, and or friends no matter where he was or what he was doing.

Goobs leaves behind four siblings, Keith Peters of Columbia, Craig Peters, husband of Christine Vo of Columbia, Todd Peters, husband of Vivian Pham of Marietta, Tonya, wife of Denny Feltch of Columbia; five nephews, four nieces, two great nieces, and two great nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents.

A celebration of Goobs’ life will be held on Saturday, February 8, 2025 from 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm at the Foresters’ of America, 201 Locust Street, Columbia, PA.

He will be laid to rest at Mount Bethel Cemetery.

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Betty enjoyed shopping with friends.

Services for Betty will be held on Saturday, January 18, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. from the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc., 519 Walnut Street, Columbia, PA  17512

Friends may call at the funeral home one hour prior to the service. 

Interment will follow at Ironville Cemetery.

 

V. Betty Moffet, 95, passed away early Saturday morning at LGH. A life-long resident of Columbia, she was the daughter of the late, Lewis and Frances (Warner) Moffet.

Betty retired from the former Kahn-Lucas Mfg. Co., where she was a Floor Girl. After retirement she had worked in the cafeteria of Taylor Elementary School. Betty enjoyed a quiet life, but in her younger years enjoyed babysitting, housesitting and dog-sitting for her family, and being a companion to the elderly. She also enjoyed shopping with friends. Betty was a member of Grace E.C. Church, Columbia. She was preceded in death by her brother, Christ Moffet and his wife, Doris. She is survived by a sister, Sandra wife of Thomas Mimnall; five nieces and their families.

Services for Betty will be held on Saturday, January 18, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. from the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc., 519 Walnut Street, Columbia, PA  17512 with Rev. Rick Fischl, officiating.  Friends may call at the funeral home one hour prior to the service.  Interment will follow at Ironville Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial donation to the Grace E.C. Church, 32 N. 8th Street, Columbia, PA  17512.

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She is retired from Donsco in Wrightsville, PA and is a lifetime member of American Legion Post 469.

Interment will be held at a later date at family's discretion, and celebration of life will be held at a later date.

 

Louise Fizer, 80, of Wrightsville, passed away peacefully on Sunday January 12, 2025, at home. Born on January 30,1944 in York, PA she was the daughter of the late Richard S. Ridinger and Cleopha M. Ridinger. She was the wife of the late Walter A. Fizer.

She is retired from Donsco in Wrightsville, PA and is a lifetime member of American Legion Post 469.

She is survived by her daughters Therese Melhorn of Elizabethtown, Mary Hershberger, wife of Larry,  of Wrightsville, Melissa Hinkle, companion of Larry Heim, of Wrightsville, and one late son Richard A. Fizer.

She is survived by a brother Richard L Ridinger, husband of Leah, and sister Lori Gearhart, wife of Dale. Preceded in death by brother Larry Ridinger.

She is also survived by 10 grandchildren and 14 Great grandchildren which she loved with all her heart.

Interment will be held at a later date at family's discretion, and celebration of life will be held at a later date.

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He enjoyed working on lawnmowers, listening to music, and playing his bongos and conga drum.

A celebration of Rit’s life will be held at later date and will be announced by his family.

 

Marvin Richard “Rit” Kenney, 80, of Columbia passed away on January 4, 2025 at the Lancaster Nursing Facility under hospice care. He was born in Columbia to the late Patrick, Sr. and Louise Choice Kenney and was a lifelong resident of Columbia.

Rit attended Columbia High School and worked at the Armstrong Ceiling Plant of Marietta until his retirement. He enjoyed working on lawnmowers, listening to music, and playing his bongos and conga drums. Rit was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and uncle who adored his family.

Rit leaves behind his wife of fifty-eight years Kathleen Jankans Kenney of Columbia; two children, Randa L., wife of the late Alan Moulden of York, Curtis L. Kenney of York; three grandchildren, Tyrell M. Romero, Dayvon M. Moulden, Jenayah N. Kenney; two sisters, Dorothy Noon of Lancaster, Bernice Hurst of Virginia; numerous nieces and nephews and a large extended family. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Richard T. Kenney; three brothers, Patrick Kenney, II, William “Metro” Kenney, and Dr. Chester L. Kenney.

A celebration of Rit’s life will be held at later date and will be announced by his family. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Hospice and Community Care, 685 Good Dr, Lancaster, PA 17601.

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Marty enjoyed traveling, playing cards, bird-watching and simply sitting on her porch to talk with neighbors.

A memorial service to celebrate her life will be held in the spring with burial at the Habecker Mennonite Cemetery in Manor Township.

 

Martha Myers Gerfin of Camp Hill, passed away Tuesday, January 7, 2025 at the age of 83, surrounded by her loving family.  “Marty” was born June 22, 1941 in Columbia, PA, daughter of the late Jacob Myers and Violet Moore Myers.

She was a graduate of Columbia High School and Millersville University with a degree in education. After teaching high school science, she began a career in the Pennsylvania Bureau of Vocational Rehabilitation where she became a manager in the central office in Harrisburg. In retirement, Marty enjoyed traveling, playing cards, bird-watching and simply sitting on her porch to talk with neighbors.  

She is survived by a son, Dale Gerfin husband of Nancy Gerfin of Kingsley, PA; and two grandchildren, Jesse and Rachael Gerfin. She was preceded in death by her brothers, Bob and Don and sisters, Joan and Kate. The family would like to thank Marty’s friends who supported her with love and care in her life and especially, her final years, including Kathy and Jeff, Yassar, Eric, Janice, Pastor Denny and Pastor Mira and so many more.

Arrangements are being made by the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home in Columbia. Messages of condolence may be made at their website www.clydekraft.com.  A memorial service to celebrate her life will be held in the spring with burial at the Habecker Mennonite Cemetery in Manor Township.  Memorial contributions may be made to the First United Methodist Church of Mechanicsburg.

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Gwen enjoyed crocheting, playing bingo, word searches, and gardening.

A celebration of Gwen’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, January 17, 2025 at Salem UCC, 324 Walnut St, Columbia, PA 17512. The family will receive friends for visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. until service time.

Burial will follow at Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens.

 

Gwendolyn “Gwen” Mae Bigler, 85, of Columbia went to be with her Lord and Savior on January 5, 2025. She was born in Columbia to the late Edward and Blanche Barnes and was a lifelong resident of Columbia.

Gwen was a graduate of Columbia High School with the Class of 1958 and worked several part time jobs all within Columbia and most recently as a bow string maker. She was a skilled seamstress who made clothing and Halloween costumes for her family. Gwen enjoyed crocheting, playing bingo, word searches, and gardening. She was a lifelong and active member of Salem United Church of Christ where she served in many roles including a Sunday school teacher, youth fellowship advisor, altar guild member, and more. She was also the set and costume designer for events like pageants and vacation bible school. Gwen was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and aunt who adored her family and treasured spending time with them.

Gwen leaves behind her three daughters, Julie Bigler of Columbia, Hilary, wife of Kyle Smith of Landisville, Gail, wife of Matt Killian of Columbia; four grandchildren, Matthew, Jillian, Chloe, Mia; two sisters, Kay Rigel of York, Cheryl Barnes of Columbia; numerous nieces and nephews and a large extended family. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of forty-five years, James W. Bigler in 2007 and four siblings.

A celebration of Gwen’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, January 17, 2025 at Salem UCC, 324 Walnut St, Columbia, PA 17512. The family will receive friends for visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. until service time. Burial will follow at Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Alzheimer’s Association, 225 N. Michigan Ave. Floor 17 Chicago, IL 60601.

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He was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed fishing and boating.

celebration of Bellmer’s life will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, January 25, 2025 at Columbia Christian Fellowship, 1290A Prospect Rd, Columbia, PA 17512.

The family will receive friends for visitation beginning at 12:00 p.m. until service time.

 

Richard Henry Bellmer, III, 36, of Marietta passed away on January 5, 2025. He was born in New Brunswick, NJ to Amy Dettinger and spent most of his life in Columbia.

Known to most as Bellmer, he was a graduate of Columbia High School with the Class of 2006. Active in youth and high school wrestling, Bellmer made it to the Eastern Nationals and had a signature move “the Double Arm Bar”.  He was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed fishing and boating. Bellmer was a loving son, brother, uncle, and friend who adored his family and treasured spending time with them.

Bellmer leaves behind his parents, Amy, wife of John Dettinger of Thomasville; three sisters, Angel, wife of Tim Attewell of Valley Glen, CA, Tara Kearns of Hanover, Ashley, wife of David Warburton of Mount Joy; eight nieces and nephews, Sophie, Madison, Andrew, Allison, Ella, Henry, Charlotte, and Hudson; his feline friend, Zoey; numerous aunts and uncles and a large extended family of many special lifelong friends.

A celebration of Bellmer’s life will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, January 25, 2025 at Columbia Christian Fellowship, 1290A Prospect Rd, Columbia, PA 17512. The family will receive friends for visitation beginning at 12:00 p.m. until service time. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Columbia Animal Shelter, 265 S. 10th St, Columbia, PA 17512 or www.columbiaanimalshelter.com.

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Bob was a proud veteran of the U.S. Navy serving aboard the USS Forrestal.

Funeral services will be held privately for the convenience of the family.

 

Robert L. Brown, Sr. 84 of West Hempfield Township, passed away on Monday, January 6, 2025. He was the husband of the late Loretta E. "Sis" Dietrick Brown with whom he was married 58 years until her death in 2023. Born in Columbia, he was the son of the late Melvin C., Sr. and Alice Brown.

Bob was a proud veteran of the U.S. Navy serving aboard the USS Forrestal and retired from KBA Printing Press, formerly Motter Printing, York. A parishioner of Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Columbia, he was a member of the American Legion Post 185. An avid hunter and fisherman, he was a member of the Columbia Fish and Game and was a lifetime member of the NRA.

Bob is survived by his son, Robert L., Jr. husband of Angie Brown, Mount Joy; two grandsons, Collin husband of Becky Brown, Elizabethtown and Matthew Brown currently serving in the U.S. Army and siblings John, Ed, Barbara, Sharon, Lougene and Alyce. His brother, Melvin and sister Beatrice preceded him in death.

Funeral services will be held privately for the convenience of the family. If desired, memorial contributions may be made to the Red Rose Veterans Honor Guard, Inc. PO Box 8601, Lancaster, PA 17604-8601.

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In Florida, Grace enjoyed fishing and boating with her family, but her heart brought her back to Columbia.

In honor of Grace’s final wishes there will be no formal services and any future services will be announced by her family.

 

Grace Elizabeth Sholly, 79, of Columbia passed away on January 5, 2025. She was born in Columbia to the late Clarence and Bessie Mae Brady and spent most of her life in Columbia.

Grace was a graduate of Columbia High School. Following graduation, she worked at the Columbia Borough Office before moving to Florida and becoming a homemaker. In Florida, Grace enjoyed fishing and boating with her family, but her heart brought her back to Columbia. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, and aunt who adored her family, especially her grandkids.

Grace leaves behind her daughter, Tammy, wife of Ricky Walden of Columbia; her son, Brian Sholly; three grandchildren, Joshua, Kirstie, and Matthew; three great grandchildren, Felicity, Lucas, and Elliott; five siblings, Earl Lowry, Jerry, husband of Susan Brady, Buddy, husband of Elaine Brady, Catherine King, and Barry Brady; numerous nieces and nephews and a large extended family. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband Leo Sholly in 2022 and seven siblings.

In honor of Grace’s final wishes there will be no formal services and any future services will be announced by her family.

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Dale was an avid Phillies fan!

graveside service in the Fairview Cemetery, Wrightsville PA on Friday, January 10, 2025 at 11:00 a.m.

 

Dale L. Hammer, of Wrightsville, passed away on January 5, 2025 one day before his 94th birthday. He was the husband of the late Olivene "El" Thomas Hammer with whom he was married 61 years until her death in 2012. A lifelong Wrightsville resident, he was the son of the late Paul and Thelma Houseal Hammer.

Dale retired in 1994 after 22 years of service from Donsco, Inc. where he worked as a pattern rigger and was an avid Phillies fan.

He is survived by his children, George Bayman (Deb); Jeanne McCarthy (late Charles); Steven Hammer (Donna); Michael Hammer (Kimberly); eight grandchildren; twelve great-grandchildren; ten great-great-grandchildren and sisters, Nancy Floyd and Lorraine Shovlin. He was preceded in death by his son, Alan Hammer, grandchildren, Jackie Hake, Steven Hammer, Jr. and siblings Joyce Ort and James Hammer.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend graveside service in the Fairview Cemetery, Wrightsville PA on Friday, January 10, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. with the Rev. Jerry Schmidt, officiating.

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Frank enjoyed history, walking, gardening, and most of all spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren.

A viewing will take place on Thursday January 9, 2025, from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. at Clyde Kraft Funeral Home, 519 Walnut St. Columbia, PA. The Holy Rosary will be recited at 6:30 p.m. 

On Friday, January 10, 2025, a Mass of Christian burial officiated by Fr. Mitzel will begin at 11:00 a.m. at Holy Trinity Catholic Church Columbia, PA. The family will receive family and friends starting at 10:00 a.m. prior to the Mass.

A burial with full military honors will follow at Holy Trinity Cemetery.

 

Francis H. Robillard Jr. “Frank” of Lancaster County, PA passed away surrounded by family on January 4, 2025. He was the devoted husband of 46 years to the late Rose Robillard and son of the late Kathryn & Francis Robillard Sr., Cortland, NY.

Frank graduated from Cortland High School with the Class of 1963.  He proudly served as a radioman in the U.S. Navy following completion of basic training and Radioman “A” school.  He served at the U.S. Naval Communication Station, Londonderry, Northern Ireland where he met and married Rose. He then served aboard the USS Ozark, Charleston, SC until departing the Navy with an Honorable Discharge.

Following the Navy, he completed a carpenter apprentice program and worked as a carpenter for 13 years. He studied computer programming at Franklin and Marshall College leading him to serve the U.S. Navy once again as a civilian. He worked as a Communications Specialist for the Navy Ships Parts and Control Center then a Computer System Programmer Analyst at the Fleet Material Support Center in Mechanicsburg, PA until his retirement.

Frank enjoyed history, walking, gardening, and most of all spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. He loved his family and will be deeply missed by all who loved him. He was a parishioner of Holy Trinity Catholic Church and served as Extraordinary Eucharist Minister.

He is survived by his daughter Suzanne Combs (Kevin) of Wrightsville, PA, grandson Major Corey Combs USAF (Jessica) and great-granddaughter Emmeline Rose of Las Vegas, NV. Son Sean (Jeanine), granddaughter Megan Bavery (Colton), great-grandson Easton and great-granddaughter Clara, granddaughter Kelly Embrey and great-granddaughter Willow, and grandson Brady all of Mooresville, NC.  His brothers David (Dianne) of Hockessin, DE, Charles (Beth) of Kenton, DE, and Duane (Mary) of Cortland, NY and his sisters Karen Pace (Nick), Patricia Galutz, Susan Root (Tink) all of Cortland NY, Kathy Stevens (John) of Woodstock, GA, and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by son James and brothers George, Robert and Thomas.

A viewing will take place on Thursday January 9, 2025, from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. at Clyde Kraft Funeral Home, 519 Walnut St. Columbia, PA. The Holy Rosary will be recited at 6:30 p.m.  On Friday, January 10, 2025, a Mass of Christian burial officiated by Fr. Mitzel will begin at 11:00 a.m. at Holy Trinity Catholic Church Columbia, PA. The family will receive family and friends starting at 10:00 a.m. prior to the Mass. A burial with full military honors will follow at Holy Trinity Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers please consider making donations in Frank’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or www.stjude.org, Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 409 Cherry St, Columbia, PA 17512, or Red Rose Veterans Honor Guard, Inc., P.O. Box 8601, Lancaster, PA 17604 or www.rrveteranshg.org.

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Ken was a fan of Philadelphia sports, and rooting for the Eagles and Phillies was his passion.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 AM on Saturday, January 11, 2025 at St. Peter’s Catholic Church at 121 S. Second St. Columbia, PA.

A celebration of life will follow immediately after the mass in the church parish center and guests are encouraged to wear Eagles green.

 

Kenneth J. Keifer, Jr., 70, of Columbia, passed away at his residence on Saturday, January 4, 2025. He was the husband of Diane Kramer Keifer with whom he was married 45 years. Born in Easton, PA, he was the son of the late Kenneth J. Keifer, Sr. and Anna Dashe Keifer.

Ken graduated from Wilson Borough High School, Class of 1973 and received his Bachelor’s Degree from Shippensburg University in 1977, where he was a member of Alpha Phi Omega. He retired after more than 40 years in industrial sales specializing in steel and laser cutting. Ken was a member of St. Peters Catholic Church, Columbia where he served as an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion. He was active member of the Knights of Columbus Council 2294 and served as Grand Knight from 2007 through 2009. He was also Fourth Degree Knight and a member of the Santa Maria Assembly 915.

Ken was a fan of Philadelphia sports, and rooting for the Eagles and Phillies was his passion. Over the years he attended many games and had an impressive collection of Eagles memorabilia. He also loved spending time at the beach with his family, especially in Ocean City, NJ.

In addition to his wife are his children, Jennie, wife of Scott Heydt; Trent Keifer and grandchildren, Carter and Mia Heydt. He was preceded in death by his twin sisters, Judy Hrymack and Janet Caflin.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 AM on Saturday, January 11, 2025 at St. Peter’s Catholic Church at 121 S. Second St. Columbia, PA. A celebration of life will follow immediately after the mass in the church parish center and guests are encouraged to wear Eagles green.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Eagles Autism Foundation at www.philadelphiaeagles.com/eaglesautismfoundation

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She enjoyed music and dancing and cooking while spending time with her friends and family.

A celebration of Sally’s life will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, January 11th at Columbia Church, 510 Walnut Street, Columbia Pa. 17512.

The family will receive friends for visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. until service time.

She will be laid to rest at Millersville Mennonite Cemetery at a later date .

 

Sally Ann (Ritchey) Trimble, 69, of Columbia went to be with her Lord and Savior on January 2, 2025. She was born in Lancaster to the late Eugene, Sr. and Emalene Chalfant Ritchey and was a lifelong resident of this area.

Sally attended and graduated from Lancaster Catholic High School and was the lead cook with Brethren Village. She enjoyed music and dancing and cooking while spending time with her friends and family. Sally adored her family and will be missed for her unique fashion and jewelry sense and her witty sense of humor.

Sally leaves behind her husband Robert Trimble, Jr. of Columbia; two children, Shane Trimble, companion of Jess Yingst of Columbia, Stacey Dubé of Lancaster; two grandchildren, Isabella and Bryan Trimble of Columbia; five siblings, Eugene, Jr., husband of Theresa Ritchey of East Troy, WI, Ann Louise Ritchey, wife of the late Joseph Beauregard of Wareham, MA, Lori Ann Ritchey, companion of Drew Mora of Rockaway, NJ, James, husband of Suzanne Ritchey of Lancaster, Jody, wife of Thomas Bucher of Mount Joy; numerous nieces and nephews and many friends. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her son Bryan Richard Smith.

A celebration of Sally’s life will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, January 11th at Columbia Church, 510 Walnut Street, Columbia Pa. 17512. The family will receive friends for visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. until service time. She will be laid to rest at Millersville Mennonite Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Pennsylvania SPCA Lancaster Center, 848 S. Prince St, Lancaster, PA 17603.

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Sally loved taking trips to Wildwood and spending time with her family.

Mass of Christian Burial: 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, January 15, 2025 at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 409 Cherry St, Columbia, PA 17512. The family will receive friends for visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. until service time.

Burial will follow at Holy Trinity Catholic Cemetery.

 

Sara A. “Sally” (Pelen) Young of Marietta, passed away on Monday, December 30, 2024, peacefully surrounded by her loving family. She was the daughter of the late John N. and Phyllis (Shortlidge) Pelen.

Sally loved taking trips to Wildwood and spending time with her family. She was a member of Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Columbia.

Surviving is her husband, Orville R. Young, with whom just celebrated 55 years of marriage in November; a daughter, Jane wife of Bruce Murray of Columbia and Jon husband of McKensay Young of Marietta; four grandchildren and three great grandchildren; and brothers, Robert “Buzz” husband of Frances Pelen of Columbia and Thomas husband of the late Dawn Pelen of Millersville; and many nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother Donald “Nip” Pelen.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, January 15, 2025 at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 409 Cherry St, Columbia, PA 17512. The family will receive friends for visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. until service time. Burial will follow at Holy Trinity Catholic Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Hospice and Community Care, 685 Good Dr, Lancaster, PA 17601 or Holy Trinity Catholic Church.

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