She was an avid fan of the Philadelphia Phillies, Notre Dame Football, and the Dallas Cowboys.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, April 5, 2025 at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, 519 Walnut St, Columbia, PA 17512.

There will be no prior visitation.

Burial will follow at Holy Trinity Cemetery.

 

Julie A. Hoak, 82, of Columbia went home to be with her Lord and Savior on March 26, 2025. She was born in Columbia to the late Isaac and Ruth Young Wickenheiser and was a lifelong resident of Columbia.

Julie was a graduate of Lancaster Catholic High School with the Class of 1960. She worked several jobs in Columbia before working with the former Northwest Savings Bank where she worked until her retirement. Julie was a lifelong parishioner of Holy Trinity Catholic Church where she was involved with the Altar Rosary Society and was a volunteer Fastnacht worker. She was an avid fan of the Philadelphia Phillies, Notre Dame Football, and the Dallas Cowboys. Julie was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and sister who adored her family and treasured spending time with them.

Julie leaves behind her children, Julie, wife of Jaime McDonald of Wyomissing, Stephen, husband of Kathleen Hoak of Columbia; two siblings, Thomas, husband of Catherine Wickenheiser of East Petersburg, Diane Eshbach of Columbia; three grandchildren, Lauren and Tyler McDonald, Katlin, wife of Ryan Schgier. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband Harold in 2019.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, April 5, 2025 at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, 519 Walnut St, Columbia, PA 17512. There will be no prior visitation. Burial will follow at Holy Trinity Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the improvement fund of Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 409 Cherry St, Columbia, PA 17512.

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Ron enjoyed playing bingo, yahtzee, all sports especially if it is Pennsylvania, socializing with people, spending time with his family and loved being a Pastor and sharing the gospel with anyone who needed to know about Jesus.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, April 12, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. from the Grace EC Church, 36 N Eighth Street, Columbia, PA 17512.   

Mr. Ronald Lee Bachman (aka Bacho & Ron), age 81, a resident of Winter Haven, passed away Thursday, March 20, 2025, at Good Shepherd Hospice in Auburndale. Mr. Bachman was born August 31, 1943, in Lancaster, Pennsylvania to Joseph Abraham and Ann Lorraine (Hamaker) Bachman. He was a Winter Haven resident for several years coming from Pennsylvania. He was a retired Pastor/Minister and a United States Army Veteran serving during the Vietnam Era. He attended the Myers Town Theology Evangelistic College in Pennsylvania and served as the Pastor at the Evangelic Congregational Church in Columbia, Pennsylvania as well as the Evangelic Congregational Church in Rexmont, Pennsylvania. He was a member of the First Baptist Church in Eagle Lake. Ron enjoyed playing bingo, yahtzee, all sports especially if it is Pennsylvania, socializing with people, spending time with his family and loved being a Pastor and sharing the gospel with anyone who needed to know about Jesus. He was preceded in death by his parents; son – Ronald Lee Bachman, II; 2 grandsons – Gregory Golden & Kyle Bachman; brother – Joseph Bachman, Jr. and sister – Betty Plastino. Ron is survived by his loving family, wife of 57 years – Jackie Bachman of Winter Haven; 3 sons – Lance Bachman of Winter Haven, Michael (Cheryl) Bachman of Lake Wales & Rick Bachman of California; brother – Dennis (Carol) Bachman of Columbia, Pennsylvania; 6 grandchildren – Tiffany (Steven), Madison (Kam), Cyra (Thomas), Dean, Jacob (Skye) & Jayden (Carolyn); 7 great grandchildren – Kenzie, Gatlin, Mia, Noah, Kai, Landon & Reygan. A memorial service with Military Honors will be held 12 noon Saturday, March 29th at the First Baptist Church of Eagle Lake, 2500 US-17, Eagle Lake.    

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, April 12, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. from the Grace EC Church, 36 N Eighth Street, Columbia, PA 17512.     

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Lew enjoyed camping, hiking, target shooting, and working as a volunteer at a local wolf preserve.

GRAVESIDE SERVICES WILL BE HELD ON THURSDAY, MARCH 27, 2025 AT FAIRVIEW CEMETERY, WRIGHTSVILLE, PA BEGINNING AT 11:00 A.M. WITH FULL MILITARY HONORS.

 

 Lewis B. Ibaugh, Jr., 75, of Crestview, FL crossed over into the arms of the Lord on March 14, 2025. Lew is the son of the late Lewis B. Ibaugh Sr. and the late Helen M. (Wintermyer) Ibaugh.  Lew was born on March 2, 1950.  He lived and grew up in Columbia and graduated from Columbia High School in 1968. He is married to Cynthia L. Ibaugh, who survives him. They were married on November 16, 1985.  They were married for 39 years.

 Lew is survived by his sons, Michael B. Ibaugh and Lewis B. Ibaugh, III. He is also survived by his daughter Karen L. Lowenthal. Lew is predeceased by 2 daughters, Lisa M. Ibaugh and Aimee Lynn Ibaugh.

Lew served in the U.S. Air Force from 1970 to 1974 in Security Forces and Special Operations during the Vietnam War.  He was discharged as a Staff Sargeant (E5) and then attended Millersville University graduating in 1978 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Education (History emphasis).  Lew worked as a Professional Fire Fighter for 10 years and then as a trainer for the Lancaster County and Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agencies. Lew and his family moved to Florida in 1999 where he worked for county and state emergency management agencies. Lew worked for two years as a planner for the Montgomery County Health Department in Pennsylvania and then he and his family returned to Florida where he finished his career with the Florida State Department of Health as a disaster planner. Lew and his wife Cindy loved the warmth of Florida and the white sandy beaches where they lived.  Lew enjoyed camping, hiking, target shooting, and working as a volunteer at a local wolf preserve.

A graveside service, with military honors, will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, March 27, 2025 at Fairview Cemetery, 600 Hellam St, Wrightsville, PA 17368. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to your local AMVETS, VFW, or American Legion.

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Walter enjoyed playing Bingo, cards, going to the casinos and rooting for the Phillies and K.C Chiefs.

Funeral services will be held at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc. 519 Walnut St. Columbia PA 17512 on Monday, March 24, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. Family and friends may view from 10:30 a.m. until the time of service.

Burial will follow in Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens.

Walter C. Hoak, 76 of Mountville, passed away on March 18, 2025 at Hospice and Community Care. Born in Columbia, he was the son of the late Benjamin and Gladys Frey Hoak.

A retired self-employed carpenter he was last employed at Wyeth Labs (GSK) Marietta where he was employed as a janitor. In his earlier years, Walter enjoyed playing Bingo, cards, going to the casinos and rooting for the Phillies and K.C Chiefs.

He is survived by his son, Shannon Hoak; daughter Sheri, wife of Bill Lamparter; two grandchildren, Erika & Ian; great-granddaughter, Destiny; siblings, Flo, wife of the late Don Bartch; Benjamin, husband of Ann Hoak; Milton Hoak, Jr. and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his brother Frederick Hoak.

Funeral services will be held at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc. 519 Walnut St. Columbia PA 17512 on Monday, March 24, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. Family and friends may view from 10:30 a.m. until the time of service. Burial will follow in Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens. If desired, memorial contributions may be made toHospice and Community Care at www.hospiceandcommunitycare.org.

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She enjoyed bird watching and observing her “little critters”.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Zion Lutheran Church, Landisville, on Saturday, April 12, 2025 at 11:00 AM.

Visitation will be held from 9:30 until the time of the service.

A luncheon social will follow the service. 

Barbara A. Wildasin of East Hempfield Township departed Brethren Village for her transition to Heaven to reunite with her parents and brothers. Barbara was born and raised in Hanover, the daughter of the late Robert and Helen Doll. Barb passed on Friday, March 14, a week after celebrating her 86th birthday with family and friends.

Barb enjoyed good health and an active lifestyle, before enduring several health challenges later in life. She had a benign brain tumor removed in 2002, resulting in several years of seizures before complete recovery. In 2012, Barb suffered a debilitating stroke, resulting in aphasia which robbed her of her ability to read (her first love), speak and write. More recently, Barb had to cope with complications from lung cancer. She endured five hospitalizations during her last year of life, but always kept a positive and pleasant attitude. It must be said that throughout her health challenges, her friends, caregivers, nurses and acquaintances still complimented her infectious smile. She was a very pleasant and courageous lady.

Barb was the wife of Robert Wildasin. They were married in 1967. In addition to Bob, Barb is survived by a son, Kurtis and wife Nicole of Hershey. She is also survived by a sister, Holly (Guy) Elliot of Hanover; Sisters-in-Law Teresa Doll and Colleen Doll Dubs, both of Hanover; Brothers-in-Law Michael Wildasin (Susan) of Mt. Joy and James Wildasin (Joan) of North Carolina. Barb is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews.

Barb graduated from Eichelberger High School (Hanover) where she was active in many activities. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Secondary English from Shippensburg State College and later earned certification as a Reading Instructor from Temple University.

Barb began her teaching career at Southwestern High School in Hanover and later taught English and Reading in the Millersburg Area School District. After moving to Lancaster County in 1973, Barb was a Reading tutor in the Columbia School District and a substitute teacher at Hempfield. Within weeks of her death, Barb was contacted by former students.

Barb was active in local groups and enjoyed many activities. She formed numerous reading groups and knitting groups and enjoyed the theater, especially the Fulton and EPAC. Reading was Barb’s passion, an ability she unfortunately lost after suffering aphasia as the result of her stroke in 2012. She was an active member of Hempfield Woman’s Club since 1974, serving as President for two terms and enthusiastically supporting their many activities.

An active member of Zion Lutheran Church since 1973, Barb was active with several groups, including Women of Zion, helping form the Yarn Ministry, and singing in the choir prior to her stroke.

Despite losing her ability to speak and read, Barb and Bob enjoyed trips to Lewes, DE where she never tired of viewing the sunsets, the ocean waves, sightseeing, dining, and counting the deer at Henlopen State Park. She remained able to appreciate the simple pleasures of life.

The family would like to thank the caring nurses and aides at Brethren Village and the wonderful ladies from Hospice.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Zion Lutheran Church, Landisville, on Saturday, April 12, 2025 at 11:00 AM. Visitation will be held from 9:30 until the time of the service. A luncheon social will follow the service.

If desired, contributions in Barb’s memory may be made to Zion Lutheran Church, 85 E. Brandt Blvd., Landisville, PA 17538 and/or Hospice and Community Care, 685 Good Drive, Lancaster, PA 17604.

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He loved music production and was a talented drummer who was known to live by the beat of his own drum.

Services for Jared will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, March, 22, 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.

Burial will follow at Holy Trinity Catholic Cemetery. 

Jared Michael Cypress, 37, of Wrightsville passed away on March 16, 2025. He was born in Lancaster to John and Sharon Cypress and was a lifelong resident of this area.

Jared was a graduate of Hempfield High School with the Class of 2006 where he was an avid ice hockey player. He loved music production and was a talented drummer who was known to live by the beat of his own drum. Jared was a loving son, brother, and uncle who adored his family and treasured spending time with them.

Jared leaves behind his parents, John, husband of Samantha Cypress of Harrisburg, Sharon Cypress of Wrightsville; a sister, Chelsea, wife of Kerilee Shuey of Reinholds; niece, Ridley Shuey of Reinholds.

Services for Jared will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, March, 22, 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. Burial will follow at Holy Trinity Catholic Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to The Mighty Mehal Foundation which helps men and women obtain recovery housing. Please visit www.mightymehal.org.

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Huey worked for many years as a crossing guard for Columbia Borough Schools and you could see him smiling and waving to people at the corner of Cherry Street.

A celebration of Huey’s life will be held at 6:30 p.m. on March 26, 2025 at First Assembly of God, 4696 Breezyview Dr, Columbia, PA.

 

Huey Embry, 78, of Columbia passed away, surrounded by his family, on February 7, 2025. He was born in Pell City, AL to the late Ethel Lee Embry and was a resident of Columbia for more than fifty years.

Huey worked for many years as a crossing guard for Columbia Borough Schools and you could see him smiling and waving to people at the corner of Cherry Street. He was a devoted believer in the Lord and faithful member of First Assembly of God Church in Columbia.

Huey leaves behind his daughter, Valerie, wife of Barry Bradley of Lancaster; three grandchildren, Lindsey, wife of Sean Vasquez of Columbia, Jasmine Bradley of Lancaster, Avery Bradley of Lancaster; two great grandchildren, Julian and Ezekiel Vasquez of Columbia; two siblings, Blossie Smith and Benjamin Embry. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife Yvonne Embry, his son Terrance Parker, and a brother Patrick Embry.

A celebration of Huey’s life will be held at 6:30 p.m. on March 26, 2025 at First Assembly of God, 4696 Breezyview Dr, Columbia, PA 17512.

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He was an avid outdoorsman who loved camping and hunting.

A graveside service for John will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, March 11, 2025 at Mount Joy Cemetery, 275 Terrace Rd, Mount Joy, PA 17552. 

John Nelson Haupt, 63, of Columbia passed away, surrounded by his family, on March 5, 2025. He was born in Lancaster to the late William and Gynieth Haupt and was a lifelong resident of this area.

John attended Columbia High School and worked as a drywall hanger for most of his life. He was an avid outdoorsman who loved camping and hunting. John was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother, and uncle who adored his family and treasured spending time with them.

John leaves behind his wife of thirty-six years, Bonnie Dommel of Columbia; eleven children, Jaime, husband of Andy Mease of Senatobia, MS, Eric Dommel of Carlisle, Nicole Dommel, fiancé of Ashby Thomas of Carlisle, John Haupt, Jr. of Bainbridge, Amanda Haupt of Columbia, Cody Haupt of Philadelphia, Megan Haupt, fiancé of Tyler Truitt of Columbia, Kristen Haupt, fiancé of Cody Jumbelick of Lancaster, Melissa Haupt of Columbia, Airelle Haupt of Tower City, Tyler, husband of Kandi Haupt of Wisconsin; three siblings, Andria Sharpe of Lancaster, Gynieth Stonesifer of Columbia, Bill, husband of Barb Haupt of Anvil; Numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and a large extended family. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two children, Jesse and Daniel Haupt.

A graveside service for John will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, March 11, 2025 at Mount Joy Cemetery, 275 Terrace Rd, Mount Joy, PA 17552. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Ann B. Barshinger Cancer Institute, 2102 Harrisburg Pike, Lancaster, PA 17601.

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A homemaker, she was a member of the Marietta Community Chapel and enjoyed gardening, puzzles and crocheting.

Funeral services will be held from the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc. 519 Walnut St., Columbia, PA on Wednesday, March 5, 2025 at 11:00 AM.

Friends may view on Wednesday one hour prior to the service.

Burial will follow in Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens.

 

Florence Mae Shank, 97, formerly Marietta, passed away at her residence on Wednesday, February 26, 2025. She was the wife of the late Glen Shank, Jr. who preceded her in death in 2003. Born in Elizabethtown, she was the daughter of the late Amos and Stella Ober Hitz.

A homemaker, she was a member of the Marietta Community Chapel and enjoyed gardening, puzzles and crocheting.

Florence is survived by her children, Carol A. Nickey (Stephen); Helen I. Chapman; Tracey L. Rosado; Yvonne J. Reinhart; Charles R. Shank (Linda); Glen E. Shank (Cheryl); Daniel J. Shank (Kimberly); 13 grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren, 5 great-great-grand-children and a brother Jay Hitz. She was preceded in death by her daughter, Gloria J. Shank, sons Robert E. & George D. Shank and siblings, Jacob Hitz, Mary Hartman, Ezra Hitz, Richard Hitz and Elizabeth McAfee.

Funeral services will be held from the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc. 519 Walnut St., Columbia, PA on Wednesday, March 5, 2025 at 11:00 AM Burial will follow in Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens. Friends may view on Wednesday one hour prior to the service.

If desired, memorial contributions may be made to the Marietta Community Chapel, 1125 River Rd., Marietta, PA 17547.

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Sues other passions included painting, quilting, cross stitch, jigsaw puzzles, and bird watching while also collecting pottery and stylish scarves.

A memorial service will be held at the Church of the Good Shepherd, 750 Greenfield Road, Lancaster, PA 17601 on Saturday, April 5, 2025 at 11 AM with visitation beginning at 10 AM.

 

Sue Ann Teats, 80, of Columbia passed away February 23, 2025 at St Annes Retirement Community. Sue was born in Bloomsburg, PA to the late William and Zoe Nephew and graduated from Bloomsburg University.

She spent most of her adult life in the Lancaster area where, with her passion for reading, became a reading specialist and a teaching consultant for the Lancaster-Lebanon IU13.

Sues other passions included painting, quilting, cross stitch, jigsaw puzzles, and bird watching while also collecting pottery and stylish scarves. Along with a very special group of friends, she was a devoted member of CALLL Girls, a local book club. Sue loved being a grandmother and great-grandmother.

In addition to Edward Teats, Jr., her husband of 40 years, she leaves behind sons, Larry Recla, husband of Shari of Colorado and Mark Recla of Colorado; stepdaughters, Shelley Baum, Karen Morrison, wife of George and Kris Ricci wife of John, as well as 10 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren. Sue was pre-deceased by her brother, Rodney Nephew.

A memorial service will be held at the Church of the Good Shepherd, 750 Greenfield Road, Lancaster, PA 17601 on Saturday, April 5, 2025 at 11 AM with visitation beginning at 10 AM.

In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation to St Annes Retirement Community, 3952 Columbia Ave., Columbia, PA 17512 or Hospice and Community Care, 685 Good Dr., Lancaster, PA 17601.

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Julia was known for her kindness, her willingness to help anyone in need, and her fierce protectiveness of those she loved.

A celebration of her life will be held on Saturday, March 8, 2025, between 12:00 PM and 2:30 PM at Bent Creek Country Club for friends and family.

A private burial will take place at the convenience of the family.

 

Julia Anne Depew (Yohe), 92, of Lancaster, PA, passed away on February 12, 2025. Born on May 28, 1932, in Columbia, PA, she was the daughter of the late John Albert Yohe, Sr. and Rose Elizabeth (Koehler) Yohe.

Julia was a lifelong member of Salem United Church of Christ in Columbia, PA, where she sang in the choir for many years.

Julia graduated from Columbia High School, Class of 1950, and went on to earn her Registered Nursing degree from Lancaster General School of Nursing. Throughout her career, Julia worked as a registered nurse at Lancaster General Hospital and Lancaster Osteopathic Hospital. She also worked as a receptionist for Dr. Glenn S. Breidenstine, Orthodontics, and later as a cashier at Mussers Market, retiring at the age of 84.

Julia was pre-deceased by her beloved husband, Gerald G. Depew, and her son, Jerrold H. Depew. She is survived by her son, Jack G. Depew (Angela) of Lititz; grandson, Joel A. Depew of Jacksonville, FL; her brother, John A. (Jack) Yohe, Jr. (Margaretta); and 9 nieces and 5 nephews.

Julia was known for her kindness, her willingness to help anyone in need, and her fierce protectiveness of those she loved. She had a deep affection for animals and children, and her caring nature touched all who knew her.

A celebration of her life will be held on Saturday, March 8, 2025, between 12:00 PM and 2:30 PM at Bent Creek Country Club for friends and family. A private burial will take place at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Hospice and Community Care at:www.hospiceandcommunitycare.org

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She found peace and beauty in every sunrise and sunset; her favorite quote was find me in the sunrise and sunset.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc. 519 Walnut St. Columbia PA 17512 on Thursday, February 27, 2025 at 11:00 a.m.

There will be no viewing, however the family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.

 

Wendy L. Reitzel, 63, of Columbia, passed away unexpectedly Thursday, February 20, 2025 at the Lancaster General Hospital. She passed peacefully with her loved ones by her side. She was the wife of John D. Reitzel with whom she was married 22 years. Born in Lancaster, she was the daughter of the late Malcom L. and Enid Richardson Boultbee.

A 1979 graduate of Manheim Central High School, she retired in 2013 from R.R Donnelley where she was employed for 30+ years as a customer account manager. An active member of the Columbia-Middletown Elks # 1074, she was currently serving as House Committee Chairman. After retirement, Wendy enjoyed her passion for life, most importantly, she dedicated herself to babysitting her grandchildren.

In addition to her husband John, she is survived by her children, Jeremy Bomberger, Nicole Temons, Zachary Reitzel, and Alexandra Reitzel. She had 5 grandchildren, Nathan Bomberger, Anthony Bomberger, Henry Temons, George Temons, and Evalynn Mazza. Her brother Malcom Lee Boultbee preceded her in death.

Wendy loved life and had a smile that would instantly light up the room. She made everyone she met feel special, regardless of who they were or how long she knew them. She loved and respected all living things. She loved being in nature, especially hiking to waterfalls. She found peace and beauty in every sunrise and sunset; her favorite quote was find me in the sunrise and sunset.

Although not a native of Columbia, she loved being a part of this close knit community, and felt honored when people told her she was an honorary Columbian. She loved sports and was an avid Columbia Basketball fan. She took great pride in her home, and found peace working in her absolutely beautiful yard.

Wendy discovered she had heart disease at 39 years old. She survived numerous close calls, including stents and open-heart surgery. She did not let that slow her down, instead, she educated herself to the risk factors, and took every opportunity to discuss them with anyone who was going through the same thing. In 2014, she was a keynote speaker for the Lancaster chapters Go Red Luncheon, appearing in the Lancaster County Magazine with her beloved dog Stormy.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc. 519 Walnut St. Columbia PA 17512 on Thursday, February 27, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. There will be no viewing, however the family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations could be made in her name to either the Columbia Animal Shelter 265 S Tenth St., Columbia; or gored forwomen.org

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She enjoyed bird watching and observing her “little critters”.

Private services for Jolene were held on Wednesday, February 19, 2025 and she was laid to rest with her late husband at Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens.

 

Jolene Marie Smeltzer, 78, of Lancaster passed away on February 15, 2025 surrounded by her loving family. She was born in Roaring Spring, PA to the late Robert and Rozella Miller and spent most of her life in Lancaster.

Jolene was a graduate of Central High School with the Class of 1964 and worked for a number of years with QVC until her retirement. She enjoyed bird watching and observing her “little critters”. She also enjoyed gardening and flowers and the music of Elvis. Jolene was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, and sister who adored her family and treasured spending time with them.

Jolene leaves behind five children, Sharon, wife of James Frey of Lancaster, Julie, wife of Noel Linares of Fayetteville, NC, Kelly, wife of Paul Russell of Lititz, Shelly, wife of Harry Yarnall of Lancaster, Jim, husband of Crystal Smeltzer of York; seven grandchildren, Michael (Amber), Meghan, Brendon, Mackenzie, Savannah, Delaney (Mason), and Ashton; four great grandchildren with one more on-the-way, Bentley, Jadis, Aiden, and Brooklynn; a brother, Mitchell, husband of Cathy Miller of Roaring Spring, PA. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband Donald Smeltzer in 2020.

Private services for Jolene were held on Wednesday, February 19, 2025 and she was laid to rest with her late husband at Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens. 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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She loved animals and working in her flower garden.

Services will be private at the convenience of the family.

 

Dorothy S. Dottie Ney, 83, of Washington Boro, passed away on Sunday, February 16,

2025 at her sons home. Born in Columbia, she was the daughter of the late Andrew and Gertrude Schenck Golden. She was predeceased by her husband, Robert Ney, Sr., who died in 2017, and two brothers, Richard and John Golden.

Dottie retired after 30 years working in the food service industry at various schools and colleges with her last being at Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology. A parishioner at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Columbia, she loved animals and working in her flower

garden. Most of all she cherished spending time with family.

She is survived by her son, Robert, husband of Charlotte Ney of Washington Boro; daughter, Lynn, wife of Thomas Commero, Jr. of Strasburg; seven grandchildren and ten

great-grandchildren.

Services will be private at the convenience of the family. If desired, memorial contributions can be made to the Susquehanna Valley Make-A-Wish at: www.wish.org, or to the Humane League at: www.humaneleague.org.

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He enjoyed Sprint and Slot car racing, riding his motorcycle, and visiting his hunting camp in Potter County.

A celebration of John’s life will be held at 1pm on March 1st at the Marietta Legion Post 466, 19 S Gay St, Marietta, PA 17547.

 

John Charles Rutter, III, 53, lifelong resident of Marietta passed away surrounded by his children on February 14, 2025. He was born to the late John, Jr. and Margaret Rutter.

John was a graduate of Donegal High School with the Class of 1990 and worked as an electrician for most of his life. He enjoyed Sprint and Slot car racing, riding his motorcycle, and visiting his hunting camp in Potter County. John was a devoted father who adored his family and treasured spending time with them.

John leaves behind his daughter Emily Rutter, companion of Dylan Miller, son Jonathan Rutter, and his longtime companion Viki Malone, all of Marietta.

A celebration of John’s life will be held at 1pm on March 1st at the Marietta Legion Post 466, 19 S Gay St, Marietta, PA 17547. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Hospice and Community Care, 4075 Old Harrisburg Pike, Mount Joy Pa 17552 or Lancaster Cancer Center, 703 Lampeter Road, Lancaster, PA 17602.

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Bill was an outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting and fishing especially at the Holtwood Dam.

In honor of Bill’s final wishes there will be no formal services.

William “Bill” E. Lewis, 69, of Wrightsville passed away on February 12, 2025. He was born in Columbia to the late Benjamin and Arlene Hake Lewis and was a lifelong resident of this area.

Bill was a graduate of Columbia High School with the Class of 1973 and proudly served in the United State Marine Corps. Following his service, he worked as a machine operator with Bway Corporation until his eventual retirement. Bill was an outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting and fishing especially at the Holtwood Dam. He was also an avid reader. Bill was a devoted father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother, and uncle who adored his family and never missed any of his grandchildren’s sporting events.

Bill leaves behind his daughter Heather, wife of JJ Heiland of Wrightsville; three grandsons, Devon, husband of Kierstan Heiland of Marietta, Julius Heiland, companion of Alyssa Snihur of Wrightsville, Landon Heiland of Wrightsville; a great granddaughter, Rory Heiland of Marietta; two brothers, Gary, husband of Kim Lewis, Robert, husband of Laurie Lewis both of Columbia; numerous nieces and nephews and a large extended family. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife Peggy Lewis in 2022 and a brother James Lewis.

In honor of Bill’s final wishes there will be no formal services. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Eastern York Athletics Booster Club, c/o of Varsity Soccer Club, PO Box 2002, Wrightsville, PA 17368.

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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.

CELEBRATION OF LIFE:

sunday, february 23, 2025 at 1:30 pm from newtown united methodist church, 1910 iron bridge road, columbia, pa.

 

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.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, KS 66675-8516.

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She enjoyed her family, camping and going to the Susquehanna River at Long Level where they enjoyed their trailer and pontoon boat.

A memorial service for Carole will be held Saturday, February 15, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. from Clyde Kraft Funeral Home, Inc., 519 Walnut Street, Columbia, PA.

There will be no public viewing, however, the family will receive friends at the funeral home one hour prior to the service. 

Carole J. Droege, 85, formerly of Mountville, PA, passed away peacefully on February 8, 2025 at Paramount Senior Living in Maytown, PA, after residing there for almost 2 years.

Born in Columbia, PA, she was the daughter of the late Samuel and Edith Zimmerman Herman. She was a lifelong resident of the Columbia-Mountville area. She was a 1957 graduate of Columbia High School.

On May 3, 1958, she married Thomas G. Droege. She was a housewife for many years. She volunteered at the Blind Association in Lancaster, PA for many years. She then retired from Hempfield Rec Center Kidz Korner after 27 years.

She was a member of the Mountville V.F.W. and former officer of the Mountville Ladies Auxiliary. She was a long-standing member and secretary of the Vagabonds Rod & Custom Car Club. She enjoyed her family, camping and going to the Susquehanna River at Long Level where they enjoyed their trailer and pontoon boat. She was a member of Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Columbia, PA.

In addition to her husband, Tom, of 66 years, she is survived by their 3 daughters: Melissa, wife of Jeffrey Deascenti of Mountville, PA, Michelle Droege of Leola, PA and Melinda Smith of Columbia, PA. She is the grandmother of Paige Gainer and great-grandmother of Carter Junto and Mason Camacho. She is survived by her sister-in-law Carolyn Droege Braas of Lancaster, PA. She is also survived by a large extended family including her many nieces and nephews who loved her dearly.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brothers Robert (Pat) Herman, Harry (Janet) Herman, and her sisters Betty (Robert) Nissley and Evelyn (Harry) Kline.

Carole was a devoted and loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, and friend. She always treasured her family and lifelong friends.

A memorial service for Carole will be held Saturday, February 15, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. from Clyde Kraft Funeral Home, Inc., 519 Walnut Street, Columbia, PA. There will be no public viewing, however, the family will receive friends at the funeral home one hour prior to the service.

Please omit flowers. If desired, contributions may be made to: Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 409 Cherry Street, Columbia, PA 17512 or Columbia Meals on Wheels, 23 S. 6th Street, Columbia, PA 17512 or Grane Hospice Care, 1010 Plymouth Road, Suite D, York, PA 17402.

The family would like to send a heartfelt thank you to the staff of Paramount Senior Living for their loving care. We would also like to thank the staff from Grane Hospice Care for their care in the last three weeks of her life. A special thank you goes to Sister Anna Cosgrove for her dedicated visits and prayers.

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She “loved to travel”, “loved to drive”, and always said that any trip was “nothin’ but a ride!”

Services for Christine will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, February 14, 2025 at St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, 616 Locust St, Columbia, PA 17512.

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

Burial will follow, and she will be laid to rest with her late husband, at Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens, Columbia.

 

Christine A. Poindexter, 78, of Columbia passed away on February 4, 2025. She was born in Columbia to the late Clifford Edmond, Sr. and Eleanor Parker Edmond. She was a lifelong resident of Columbia and a graduate of Columbia High School, Class of 1964.

Until her retirement, she was employed by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania for thirty-five years. She “loved to travel”, “loved to drive”, and always said that any trip was “nothin’ but a ride!” She was an avid sports fan and supporter of the Columbia Crimson Tide and the Pittsburgh Steelers.

 Christine was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, cousin, and aunt who adored her family and treasured spending time with them. She was a faithful member of Mount Zion A.M.E. Church in Columbia.

 Christine leaves behind her children, Eric Poindexter of Columbia; Arthur, husband of Veronica Poindexter of Columbia; Whitney, wife of Alexander Ortiz of Hellam; ten grandchildren and three great grandchildren; a sister, Deitra (“Deety”), wife of Stephen Spence of suburban Philadelphia; sisters-in-law, Terrie Edmond, Nancy Poindexter, Vivian Colon all of Columbia; brothers-in-law, Robert, husband of Shirley Poindexter; Gerald, husband of Elaine Poindexter, all of Columbia; numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, and a large extended family. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband Arthur Poindexter, Sr. in 1996; two brothers, Gregory Edmond, in 2004, and Clifford Edmond, Jr. in 2000.

Services for Christine will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, February 14, 2025 at St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, 616 Locust St, Columbia, PA 17512. The family will receive friends for visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. until service time. Burial will follow, and she will be laid to rest with her late husband, at Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens, Columbia.

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She was a U.S. Air Force Veteran of the Korean War.

At Jean’s request there will be no formal services.

 

Jean L. Carlson, 98, formerly of Columbia, PA passed away on January 30, 2025 in Middletown, PA. Born in Pontiac, MI she was the daughter of the late Arnid and Florence Lind Carlson.

She was a U.S. Air Force Veteran of the Korean War.

Surviving are sons: Kenneth Baker and John Smith and daughters: Joan Smith, Deb Newbold and Susan Smith.

At Jean’s request there will be no formal services.

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