Posts in obituaries
Jeffrey Allen Baham

Jeffrey was a loving son and father who adored his family.

Graveside Service: Thursday, December 31 at 11:15 a.m. at Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens

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Jeffrey Allen Baham, 46, of Marietta passed away on December 26th, 2020. He was born in Lancaster to Tom and Melinda Goldsborough and was a lifelong resident of this area. Jeffrey was a graduate of Donegal High School with the Class of 1993. He was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting, fishing, and being outside. Jeffrey was a loving son and father who adored his family.

Jeffrey leaves behind his parents, Tom and Melinda Goldsborough of Marietta; his daughters, Tomilyn Baham, companion of Jose Ramirez of Elizabethtown and Rachel Baham of Marietta. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Charles and Mary Baham, John and Ardis Goldsborough.

Visitation for Jeffrey will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, December 31st, 2020 at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc. 519 Walnut St., Columbia, PA 17512. A graveside service will follow at 11:15 a.m. at Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens in Columbia. If attending any events please wear a mask and practice social distancing. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Columbia Presbyterian Church/Hands Across the Street, 360 Locust St., Columbia, PA 17512 or www.columbiahas.org. Arrangements by the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc. Columbia/Landisville


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LeRoy D. Fals

LeRoy enjoyed spending time on the Susquehanna River boating and spending time on the sandbar.

Private service will be held in Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens

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LeRoy D. Fals, 89, of Wrightsville, passed away on Saturday, December 26, 2020 at the Susquehanna Valley Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. Born in Toledo, OH, he was the son of the late Perlee C. and Willie Jones Fals.

LeRoy retired from Conrail in 1993 after 40 years of service where he employed as train engineer. He was a longtime member of St. Paul's Episcopal Church, Columbia and was a 42-year member of Lodge 286 F&AM, Wrightsville where he received his Master Mason, in May 1978 and served as past Lodge Chaplain. LeRoy enjoyed spending time on the Susquehanna River boating and spending time on the sandbar.

He is survived by his son, Tim, husband of Carol Fals; three grandchildren, Lindsay Kline; Courtney Fals; Kristy, wife of Jordan Hood; two great-grandchildren, Brea Hood, Brantleigh Fals and a sister, Eula Higgenbothem.

Due to COVID-19 concerns, a private service will be held in Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens with the Rev. J. Patrick Peters, officiating, at the convenience of the family. If desire, memorial contributions may be made to the Susquehanna Valley Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, Attn; Activities Dept., 745 Chickies Hill Road, Columbia, PA 17512.


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Alfred G. Stewart

Alfred was a loving father, grandfather, and brother who treasured spending time with his family.

Visitation for Alfred will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on Monday, January 4th 2021 at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc. 519 Walnut St, Columbia, PA 17512.

A graveside service will follow at 11:15 a.m. at Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens in Columbia

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Alfred G. Stewart, 63, of York passed away surrounded by his adoring family on Christmas Day 2020. He was born in Fort Leonard Wood, MO to the late Charles and Anna Zivic Stewart. Alfred attended and graduated from Hempfield High School before studying welding at Lancaster County Career and Technology Center in Mount Joy. He began SWF Industrial out of a one car garage which then grew to include over one hundred employees that were like family to him. Alfred was extremely hard working and loyal. He had a love for creating new things. Enjoyed nature as well as a passion for science that included astronomy, meteorology, and aviation; which led to him acquiring his pilot’s license. Alfred was a loving father, grandfather, and brother who treasured spending time with his family.

Alfred leaves behind his children, Jennifer, wife of Brandon Stanchock of Hellam, Angela, wife of Ryan Hess of Landisville, Monica, wife of Matt Bowman of Mount Joy, Brad Stewart of York; his step daughter, Erika Bryson of York; five grandchildren, Alexis, Aiden, Caleb, Ariana, and Avery; three siblings, Rosie, Don, and Willy; his canine companion, Maisy. Alfred’s children looked up to their dad with tons of love and respect. They will miss his strength, perseverance, stubbornness, love, sense of humor and his laughter. He will always remain in their hearts.

Visitation for Alfred will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on Monday, January 4th 2021 at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc. 519 Walnut St, Columbia, PA 17512. A graveside service will follow at 11:15 a.m. at Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens in Columbia. If attending any events please wear a mask and practice social distancing. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Alzheimer’s Association, Greater Pennsylvania Chapter, 2595 Interstate Dr, Suite 100, Harrisburg, PA 17110 or www.alz.org. Arrangements by the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc. Columbia/Landisville www.clydekraft.com


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Lois F. Becker

 Lois was one of the most loving, giving and caring people and there was no one who met her who didn't love her.

LIFE CELEBRATION: Wednesday, December 30, 2020 11:00 am at New Path Community Church, Mount Joy .

Family & Friends may view at the church one hour prior to the Celebration of Life.

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Lois F. Becker, 87, of 26 Lorraine Avenue, Marietta, PA passed away at her residence on December 27, 2020. She was the wife of the late John E. Becker who preceded her in death in 2005. Born in Mount Joy, PA she was the daughter of the late Henry and Mary Herr Rider.

She was last employed in the flu department of Wyeth Labs. Lois had a very strong faith in her Lord and Savior. She was one of the most loving, giving and caring people and there was no one who met her who didn't love her. She loved working in her yard and loved watching birds.

Surviving is a son, John H. husband of Elizabeth Graham Becker, of Columbia; and a daughter, Lois F. wife of Michael Albert, of Wrightsville; 5 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren and one great-great-granddaughter. Also surviving is a sister, Geraldine Wetzel, of Mount Joy. Lois was preceded in death by her siblings: Ruth Naomi, Anna Mary, Betty and Kenneth.

A Life Celebration for Lois will be held from the New Path Community Church, 22 West Main Street, Mount Joy, PA on Wednesday, December 30, 2020 at 11:00 a.m. (VIEWING: 10:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m.) with Pastor Kenneth Schoonover and Rev. Michael Albert officiating. Interment will be in Mount Joy Camp Hill Cemetery.

The family requests that flowers by omitted. Contributions in Lois memory may be made to Hospice & Community Care, PO BOX 4125, Lancaster, PA, 17604-4125.

Arrangements by the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc., Columbia/Landisville, www.clydekraft.com


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Marlyn C. Kauffman, Sr.

Marlyn proudly served his country aboard the U.S.S Coral Sea from 1945 thru 1949.

Due to Covid-19 concerns, a private viewing and graveside service with full military honors will be held in the Salunga Mennonite Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

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Marlyn C. Kauffman, Sr., 92, of Lititz, formerly of Columbia, passed away on Tuesday, December 22, 2020 at the Elizabethtown Rehabilitation and Nursing Center. He was the husband of Elizabeth Hartman Maust Kauffman with whom he was married 29 years. Born in Columbia, he was the son of the late Earl and Edna (Kauffman) Kauffman. A U.S Navy veteran, he proudly served his country aboard the U.S.S Coral Sea from 1945 thru 1949. He retired after 35 years of service from the former ITT Grinnell Corporation. Marlyn was a lifetime member of the AMVETS, Columbia and a member of the former Shawnee Fire Company and Columbia Fire Company #1.

In addition to his wife are his children, Marlyn C., Jr. husband of Doreatha Kauffman; Dale Kauffman; Dianne, wife of Bob Frady; step children, Debra, wife of Robert Klink and Vicki Maust fiancée of Kenny Lease. Many grandchildren, great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren also survive. He was the last of his immediate family having being preceded in death by three brothers and two sisters.

Due to Covid-19 concerns, a private viewing and graveside service with full military honors will be held in the Salunga Mennonite Cemetery at the convenience of the family. If desired, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, 314 Good Drive, Lancaster PA 17603 or at www.cancer.org

Arrangements by the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc.


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James Morrissey

James was self employed in the construction industry. 

At this time there will be no services for James and any future services will be announced by his family.

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James Morrissey, 68, of Columbia passed away on December 20th, 2020. He was born in Manhattan, NY to the late Frank and Christine Morrissey and was self employed in construction.

James leaves behind his wife of 40 years Donna Morrissey; four children, Donna, James, Tina, and Tiffany; seven grandchildren, Hope, Faith, Codey, Kyle, Andrew, Maddison, and Brooklyn.

At this time there will be no services for James and any future services will be announced by his family.


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Donald W. Smeltzer

Don enjoyed tinkering around the house and watching the Pittsburgh Steelers, Philadelphia Eagles and Phillies, along with rooting for Penn State.

In keeping with Don's wishes and world events surrounding Covid-19, a private viewing and service will be held at the convenience of the family.

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Donald W. Smeltzer, 78, of Lancaster, passed away on December 22, 2020 at the Abington Jefferson Hospital, Abington, PA. He was the husband of Jolene Miller Smeltzer with whom he was married 56 years. Born in Martinsburg, PA, he was the son of the late Wilbert and Ruth Shriver Smeltzer.

Don graduated in 1961 from Central High School, Martinsburg, PA and retired in 1995 after 32 years of service from the former Kerr Glass, Inc., Lancaster where he was employed as an injection molder.

He enjoyed tinkering around the house and watching the Pittsburgh Steelers, Philadelphia Eagles and Phillies, along with rooting for Penn State.

In addition to his wife Jolene are his children, Sharon, wife of James Frey; Julie, wife of Noel Linares; Kelly, wife of Paul Russell; Shelly, wife of Harry Yarnall; James, husband of Crystal Smeltzer; seven grandchildren, Michael, Meghan, Brendon, Mackenzie, Savannah, Delaney and Ashton; four great-grandchildren, Bentley, Jadis, Aiden and Brooklynn. His brother, John, husband of Dianne Smeltzer also survives. He was preceded in death by his four siblings, Anna Mary, Phyllis, Peggy and Bill.

In keeping with Don's wishes and world events surrounding Covid-19, a private viewing and service will be held at the convenience of the family. He will be laid to rest in Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens. If desired, contributions in Don's memory may be made to the American Heart Association, 610 Community Way, Lancaster, PA 17603 or at www.heart.org

Arrangements by the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc.

www.clydekraft.com


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Julie Ann Ness

Julie had her own ceramic shop in Columbia during the 1970’s “Ceramic World” where she taught ceramic classes. 

Private graveside services will be held for the family at the Mount Joy Cemetery. 

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Julie Ann Ness, 74, of Columbia, passed away at home on Tuesday, December 22, 2020. She was the wife of Mervin G. Ness with whom she was married 52 years. Born in Columbia, she was the daughter of the late Chester A. and Gladys Kramer Runkle.

 A graduate of Columbia High School and the Art Institute of Pittsburgh, Julie worked as a commercial artist in York. She worked at Dairy Queen and retired from Giant Foods where she was employed as a cake decorator. Julie had her own ceramic shop in Columbia during the 1970’s “Ceramic World” where she taught ceramic classes. 

Julie enjoyed making homemade candy and home cooked meals for her daughter’s bakery, JillyBeans Sweet Shoppe in Wrightsville, going to the casinos with her family and making homemade crafts to sell at craft shows. 

She loved going out to eat and spending time with her family. Julie was very much looking forward to seeing her two youngest grandchildren graduate from high school this year and go off to college in the fall along with attending her granddaughter’s upcoming wedding. 

In addition to her husband, she is survived by her children, Steven Ness, Shannon Ness, Jillian Ness, Jason Ness; grandchildren, Madison Combs, Erin Ness, Katie Ness, Hunter Ness, Tanner Ness and Cassidy Cook. Her sister, Evelyn, wife of Douglas Baer and brothers, Robert, husband of Linda Runkle and Chester Runkle also survive. 

At Julie’s request, private services will be held at the convenience of the family with interment in the Mount Joy Cemetery. 


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William G. Getz

A kind and loving man, Ike, made friends easily and enjoyed spending time with them whenever possible. His greatest love, however, was for his wife, children and grandchildren.

Private graveside services will be held for the family at Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens.

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Beloved husband and father, William Gary “Ike” Getz, passed away on December 21, 2020 at home after a lengthy illness. Born in Columbia, he was the son of the late Isaac and Helen (Geyer) Getz and the devoted husband of Christine (Price) Getz with whom he recently celebrated 51 years of marriage.

After graduation from Columbia High School, Ike enlisted in the Army and upon his honorable discharge began his working career as an Instrument and Calibration Repairmen retiring from Wyeth in 2003.  Ike will be remembered by family and friends for his warm smile, quick wit, love of life and jokes.  He will also be remembered for his gags, among the many of which is the “paper bag” trick.

Ike enjoyed hunting for many years until he discovered his passion for golf.  A kind and loving man, Ike, made friends easily and enjoyed spending time with them whenever possible. His greatest love, however, was for his wife, children and grandchildren.

Surviving in addition to his wife are their two devoted and loving children, Monica Getz Petta wife of Richard Petta, of Cornwall, PA and Joshua Getz of Lancaster, PA; his granddaughters, Lorelai Getz and Madalyn Getz; his brother, Donald Getz and his sisters, Rosemary Riley and Frances Halbleib. 

Due to the current pandemic and the risk posed to family and friends, a public Celebration of Life event will not be held; however, the family would appreciate friends and family sharing a fond memory or story of their relationship with Ike which can be mailed to his wife or posted online at www.clydekraft.com

Private graveside services will be held for the family at Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens, Columbia.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution in Bill’s name to Hospice and Community Care, 685 Good Drive, P.O. Box 4125, Lancaster, PA  17604 (hospiceconnect.org/give). This organization was invaluable to his family during his last weeks of life.

Funeral arrangements are being handled by the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc., Columbia/Landisville, www.clydekraft.com.


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Dennis L. Goss

Dennis was a loving family man who adored his wife & made all of her dreams come true.

Due to world events, a Celebration of Dennis’ Life will be held at a later date and will be announced by his family.

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Dennis L. Goss, 63, of Lancaster passed away on December 19th, 2020. He was born in Columbia to the late Eugene L. “Buck”, Sr. and Joanne Murr Goss. Dennis attended Hempfield High School and proudly served in the United States Navy. He was an avid hunter and could build or fix anything. Dennis was a loving family man who adored his wife and made all of her dreams come true. He was a faithful member of the Lord’s House of Prayer.

Dennis leaves behind his wife Christine Goss of Lancaster; his daughter, Lindsay, wife of Joel Scarlett of Millersville; three grandchildren, Jeremiah, Noelle, and Elijah Scarlett all of Millersville; a brother, Joseph Goss, companion of Margaret George of Perry County. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Eugene L. “Buck” Goss, Jr.

Due to world events, a celebration of Dennis’ Life will be held at a later date and will be announced by his family. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Lord’s House of Prayer, 133 E. Vine St, Lancaster, PA 17602. Arrangements by the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc. Columbia/Landisville www.clydekraft.com



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Rose M. Brewer

She adored her family and treasured spending time with them.

Rose loved the Lord

PRIVATE SERVICES FOR THE FAMILY.

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Rose M. Brewer, 75 of Manheim passed away on December 20th, 2020. She was born in Columbia to the late Paul and Martha Jones and was a lifelong resident of this area. Rose was a graduate of Columbia High School and enjoyed fishing and gardening. She adored her family and treasured spending time with them. Rose loved the Lord.

Rose leaves behind her husband of more than 40 years, Sam Brewer of Manheim; her children, Al, husband of Kim Frankhouser of Salem, IN, Rob, husband of Stephanie Frankhouser of Lancaster, Tammy, wife of Bob Frady of Bainbridge, Tom, husband of Lynn Brewer of Manheim, Sam, Jr, husband of Peggy Brewer of Marietta; 19 grandchildren and 24 great grandchildren; 3 siblings, Roy, husband of Bonnie Jones of Columbia, Bob, husband of Marian Jones of Columbia, Marion, wife of the late Ralph Freeland of Columbia. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her grandson, Austin and two sisters, Juanita Steffy and Janet Martzall.

Services for Rose will be private and at the convenience of her family. She will be laid to rest at Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Hospice for All Seasons Foundation, 280 South Hill Dr, Grantville PA 17028. Arrangements by the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc. Columbia/Landisville www.clydekraft.com



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Thomas M. Donan, III.

Tom enjoyed camping, family, and hanging out with his grandchildren.

Viewing/Visitation: Tuesday, December 15, 2020 5:00 -7:00 pm at Valley View Alliance Church, 200 Alliance Avenue, Hallam. Private Family Services will begin promptly at 7:00 pm.

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Thomas M. Donan III, 63, of York, formerly of Columbia, passed to be in the presence of his Lord on December 11, 2020 at home surrounded by his family. He was the loving husband of Debra Leicht Donan, his wife of 35 years. Born in Lancaster, he was the son of the late Thomas and Barbara Aston Donan.

A 1975 graduate of Columbia High School, he excelled and was a standout on the school's football team. Tom also was a standout football player as he attended East Stroudsburg University and continued his love of sports, coaching for many years the Columbia High School Track and Field Teams, as well in the York Suburban School District. He recently retired from York Harley Davidson where he worked in material handling department.

He had many family and friends with whom he made lasting relationships. He enjoyed camping, family, and hanging out with his grandchildren.

Tom was a devoted member of Valley View Alliance Church, where he served as a Deacon.

In addition to his wife Deb, he is survived by his children, Thomas M. Donan; Garry P. Donan, husband of Cynthia, and Katie M. Donan, partner of Denny Halso; six grandsons; sister, Mary Donan and brother Patrick Donan, Esq. He was preceded in death by his sister Terry Thompson.

Family and friends will be received at the Valley View Alliance Church, 200 Alliance Ave., Hallam, PA 17406 on Tuesday, December 15, 2020 from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. with a private service for the family beginning promptly at7:00 p.m. Due to COVID-19 Mandates, masks and social distancing will be adhered to. If desired, contributions in Tom's memory may be made to the church.

Arrangements are entrusted to the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc.


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Dr. Janairo F. Hernandez

Dr. Hernandez will be remembered by many for his kindness, humor, and generosity to those in need.

Due to current health concerns, a private funeral mass will be held at the convenience of the family.

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Janairo F. Hernandez, M.D., a longtime General Internist practicing in Columbia since 1974, passed away on December 8, 2020. He was the husband of Remedios Basco Hernandez with whom he was married 51 years this past June 2nd. Born in the Philippines, he was the son of the late Serafin and Araceli Flores Hernandez.

Doctor Hernandez was a devoted Catholic and a member of Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Columbia. He had a love for military marching band music and a love of watching any film or documentary about wars or military themes. He avidly enjoyed marching along with military marching music and playing poker.

Most importantly, he will be remembered by many for his kindness, humor, and generosity to those in need.

The Hernandez Family would like to express their appreciation to Columbia residents, all of his patients, and his friends for their welcoming nature and support. If you would like to share a message or special moment you had with Dr. Hernandez, please send an e-mail to DrHernandezFamily@yahoo.com.

Due to current health concerns, a private funeral mass will be held at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Holy Trinity Catholic Church or to Our Lady of the Angels Catholic School.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by two sons, Reginald B. Hernandez; Janairo F. Hernandez, and a grandson Mclain O'Rourke, all of California.

The family is being served by the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc.

www.clydekraft.com


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Patrick Q. Spiese

Retired English Teacher

Graveside Services will be held at Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens with full Military Honors.

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Patrick Q. Spiese, 78, of 339 C. St. Carlisle, PA passed away on December 8, 2020 at the Harrisburg Hospital. He was the husband of Kaye Beecher Spiese. Born in Columbia, PA he was the son of the late Albert L. Spiese, Sr. and Hilda Ember Spiese.

Patrick was a retired English teacher and has taught at the Loysville Youth Development Center of West Perry School District. He was a member of First Evangelical Lutheran Church in Carlisle. He was a former coordinator of the Columbia Playground Association and a member of Elks Lodge #0578 in Carlisle. Patrick proudly served his country in the U.S. Air Force during the Viet Nam War.

Surviving besides his wife are sons: David P. husband of Nicole Spiese of Telford, PA and Micah T. Spiese of Aurora, Colorado and grandson: Vincent D. Spiese. Also surviving are sisters: Geraldine E. Spiese of Hatfield, PA and Rose M. Spiese of Lancaster, PA and a brother, Richard Spiese of Long Beach, CA. He was preceded in death by the following siblings: Herbert, Hilda, Albert, Nathan, Kenneth, John, Grace, James and Gwen.

Private Graveside Services will be held for the family in Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens with Full Military Honors by Red Rose Veterans Honor Guard and Vet 21 Gun Salute.

The family requests that flowers be omitted. Memorial Contributions in Patrick's memory may be made to the Columbia Food Bank, P.O. Box 96, Columbia, PA 17512.

Arrangements by the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc., Columbia/Landisville,


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Carolyn C. Derstler

Carolyn took pleasure in gardening, feeding the hummingbirds and watching butterflies.

Mass of Christian Burial: Saturday, December 12, 2020 at 11:00 am, Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Columbia. Visitation with the family one hour prior to Mass.

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Carolyn C. Derstler, 98 formerly of the Ironville Pike Columbia, PA passed away on Monday, December 7, 2020. She was the wife of the late Elmer J. Derstler who preceded her in death on November 24, 2003. Born in Columbia she was the daughter of the late Joseph and Clara Burgess Resch.

Carolyn was a full time homemaker. She enjoyed traveling across the United States with her husband, enjoyed family gatherings and celebrating birthdays with her siblings. She took pleasure in gardening, feeding the hummingbirds and watching butterflies. Carolyn was a life-long member of Holy Trinity Catholic Church, attending daily Mass until her husbands' passing in 2003. She was a past member of the Altar Rosary Society and the Legion of Mary.

She is survived by her daughters: Carol wife of Thomas Manley of York, PA and Mary Jo wife of Stephen Wagner of Millersville, PA., a son: Karl of Columbia, PA., 5 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren, sisters: Doris wife of Albert Schmitt and Shirley Marcello both of Columbia, PA and Barbara Austin of Palm Harbor, FL. She was preceded in death by a son: Leo W. husband of Patricia Bireley Derstler of Columbia, PA and the following siblings: Joseph, Charles, Anna, Martha, Margaret, Frances, Betty, Agnes and an infant sister Jeanette.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held from Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 4th & Cherry Streets Columbia, PA on Saturday, December 12, 2020 at 11:00AM with Rev. Fr. Stephen Kelley as Celebrant. Final Commendation and Farewell will be in Holy Trinity Catholic Cemetery. There will be a Visitation with the Family from 10:00AM–11:00AM. Masks must be worn to enter the Church. The family requests that flowers be omitted.

Memorial Contributions in Carolyn's memory may be made to Our Lady of The Angels School 404 Cherry Street Columbia, PA 17512. A special thank you to the staff at Paramount Senior Living, Maytown and the Grane Hospice for their compassionate and loving care. Arrangements by the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc. Columbia/Landisville. www.clydekraft.com


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Miles Shirk Lauver, Jr.

Miles enjoyed telling jokes and spending time visiting the S.B.A. and American Legion social clubs in Marietta.

A celebration of Miles’ life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, December 11, 2020 at Community Bible Church, 331 Anderson Ferry Rd, Marietta, PA 17547. The family will receive friends for visitation beginning at 1:00 p.m. until service time

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Miles Shirk Lauver, Jr., AKA Pap, of Marietta, entered into rest on Tuesday, December 1, 2020 at his home surrounded by his loving family. He was the husband of Harriet (Stoutzenberger) Lauver to whom he was married for 57 years. Son of the late Miles, Sr. and Blanche Lauver, he is survived by two sons and a daughter, Brian, husband of Michelle, Miles, III, and Robin, wife of Corey; grandchildren, Nikki (Peewee), wife of Ewan, Troy, husband of Connie, Sara, wife of Zach, Brian II, Adam, Justin, and Megan; five great grandchildren; three siblings, brothers Paul and Ronnie and sister Evie.

Miles proudly served in the U.S. Army for 10 years and was an over the road truck driver for Amerimax Home Products for 35 years (his handle was “The Pied Piper”). He retired with over 3 million miles accident free. Miles loved hunting, fishing, and the Pittsburgh Steelers. He enjoyed telling jokes and spending time visiting the S.B.A. and American Legion social clubs in Marietta.
A celebration of Miles’ life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, December 11, 2020 at Community Bible Church, 331 Anderson Ferry Rd, Marietta, PA 17547. The family will receive friends for visitation beginning at 1:00 p.m. until service time. If attending please wear a mask and practice social distancing. Flowers will be accepted or please consider a donation to The Oral Cancer Foundation, 1211 E. State St, Boise, ID 83712.



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Sister Agatha Marie Groft, ASC

Sister Agatha was the provincial leader for the Sisters in the former Columbia Province of the Adorers of the Blood of Christ from 1995 - 2000.

Due to public health guidelines, private interment will be held at St. Joseph’s Convent Cemetery. A Mass of Remembrance will be held at a later date.

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Sister Agatha Marie Groft, ASC, 88, passed away on December 7, 2020 at St. Anne’s Retirement Community. Born Eva Teresa in Adams County, PA she was the daughter of the late Benjamin and Elizabeth Hackensmith Groft.

Sister was baptized on January 17, 1932 at Sacred Heart Basilica in Conewago. She entered the Adorers of the Blood of Christ on January 7, 1951 and made her final profession on August 15, 1957. Sister Agatha was the provincial leader for the Sisters in the former Columbia Province of the Adorers of the Blood of Christ from 1995 - 2000. Her other ministries included being an elementary and junior high teacher and principal, superior at local communities, formation director (for postulants and novices), coordinator of the Sisters at St. Anne’s in Columbia, mentor Sister for the ASC Associates in the Columbia area, provincial councilor and treasurer. Sister retired at St. Joseph’s Convent in 2005 and at St. Anne’s Retirement Community in 2010.

Surviving is her brother-in-law, Lawrence ("Gump") Bolin and several nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her siblings, Marie Baker, Pauline Groft, Earl Groft, Margaret Smith, Robert Groft, Anna Mae Storm, Helena Smith, and Genivieve Bolin.

Due to public health guidelines, private interment will be held at St. Joseph’s Convent Cemetery. A Mass of Remembrance will be held at a later date. If desired, memorial contributions may be made to the ASC Retirement Fund, 4233 Sulphur Ave, St. Louis, MO 63109 or www.adorers.org. Arrangements by the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc. Columbia/Landisville www.clydekraft.com


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Mary Margaret (Baer) Ebersole

Mary was a skilled seamstress, crafter, excellent cook & avid baker!

Funeral Services will take place on Thursday, December 10 at Trinity E.C. Church, 322 Hershey Avenue, Lancaster. Visitation begins at 1 p.m. Service takes place at 2 p.m. Interment is private at Conestoga Memorial Gardens,

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Mary Margaret (Baer) Ebersole, 94, departed this life in hope of the Resurrection on Friday, December 4. She will be deeply missed by her family and friends.

Mary was preceded in death by her husband of 57 years, David Blair Ebersole, Jr., her parents, John P. and Elva (McCartney) Baer and 4 siblings, Dorothy Hawn, Betty Jane (Pete) Gleichert, Donald Baer, and Arthur Baer. She is survived by her children Debra (David) Bryant, Leslie (Jerome) Atherholt and Larry Ebersole; her 5 grandchildren Matthew Miller, Kara Bryant, and Blair, Elaine and Grace Atherholt and her 4 great-grandchildren.

Born in Bolivar, PA, Mary and her family moved to Altoona where she graduated from Altoona High School. Mary loved to roller skate in her youth, and spent many hours doing so with her friends. She remained life-long friends with many of them, including Irene (Tsamoutales) Kyle, with whom she cherished an 81-year friendship.

Mary met David on a blind date in Geeseytown, PA following his return from WWII. Once married, his work with Bell Telephone moved them from Blair County to Lancaster County. After renting on Ross Street for several years, they bought a house on Union Street where they lived and raised their family.

Mary was a skilled seamstress and crafter. Many friends and neighbors were blessed by her artistry as she mended, repaired and constructed clothing, furnishings, toys and, most notably, Christmas ornaments and decorations for everyone she loved. She was an excellent cook and an avid baker, known for her contributions to church, school and community bake sales, and family dinners. She shared Christmas cookies, including her famous sand tarts, with friends and neighbors across the county.

Mary was an active member of Trinity E.C. Church on Hershey Avenue, joining shortly after its founding. She also served as a membership officer of The Towne Club of Lancaster and secretary of Lancaster AARP for many years.

Funeral Services will take place on Thursday, December 10 at Trinity E.C. Church, 322 Hershey Avenue, Lancaster. Visitation begins at 1 p.m. Service takes place at 2 p.m. Interment is private at Conestoga Memorial Gardens, Lancaster. Due to Covid-19, masks and social distancing are required. Arrangements are entrusted to Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Columbia, PA. www.clydekraft.com

In lieu of flowers, please support a charity of your choice in Mary’s honor.


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Rose Marie Brommer

Rose was an example of service to her community.

Mass of Christian Burial: Thursday, December 3, 2020 at 11:00 a.m. at Saint Peter Catholic Church

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Rose Marie Brommer, 71, entered into eternal life on Sunday, November 29, 2020, at home surrounded by her family. For five months she valiantly fought cancer showing her family how to fight with courage and patience. She never gave up her will to live.

Born October 1, 1949 to the late William and Elizabeth (Boswa) Foehlinger, she was one of seven children. Her husband, Jack, and she were married for fifty years on April 25, 2020.

Rosie was retired from Colonial Metals Co., Columbia, and never-quite-retired as a private income tax preparer. A life-long member of St Peter Catholic Church, her faith filled her life and was passed on to her family. She was an example of service to her community as a former member of the Vigilant Fire Co. Auxiliary; a former Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion to the homebound of her parish; and, annually a volunteer for the Christmas Day Dinner sponsored by the Office of the Aging for over 25 years.

Surviving in addition to her siblings and husband are three children, Jack Brommer, Jr. (husband to Julie), Jill Bryant (wife to Kevin), and Fr. Joshua Brommer. Her heart was filled with love for her six grandchildren, Elizabeth, Brittany, Lauren, Kevin, Katy, and Sophia.

A visitation will take place on Wednesday, December 2, 2020 from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc. 519 Walnut St., Columbia, PA and again at the church one hour prior to the Mass. The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, December 3, 2020 at 11:00 a.m. at Saint Peter Catholic Church, 121 S. Second St., Columbia 17512 with her son presiding. Interment will follow in St. Peter Catholic Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial offerings in her memory may be made to her church.

The funeral Mass will be lived streamed on the church Facebook page at https://stpetercolumbiapa.org/contact-us


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