Posts in obituaries
Louis A. Knapp

Lou was employed by Lancaster Newspapers for 30 years retiring as a pressman in 1990.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Leo the Great Catholic Church, 2427 Marietta Ave., Lancaster, PA 17601 on Tuesday, June 15, 2021 at 10:30 a.m. Family will receive friends one hour prior to the Mass.

knapp.jpg

Louis Allan Knapp, 93, passed away peacefully at home on June 10, 2021 under the care of Hospice and Community Care from complications of a stroke. Born in Lancaster he was the son of the late Ludwig A. and Mary Gallagher.

He graduated from Lancaster Catholic High School in 1947. He joined the U.S. Army in the early 1950's and was stationed in Munich Germany with the 29th Army Portal Unit. He married Gladys Herbert on October 13, 1956 and spent 56 years with "the only girl he wanted to marry."

Lou was employed by Lancaster Newspapers for 30 years retiring as a pressman in 1990. He was a longtime member of St. Leo the Great Catholic Church; Knights of Columbus Council 6810; a Life Member of the National Rifle Association; Columbia Fish and Game where he preferred target practice and was know as a pretty good marksman. In addition, he was a member of the VFW Post 7295

Surviving is his son, Edward A. Knapp. He was preceded in death by his wife, Gladys Herbert Knapp and daughter, Cynthia L. Knapp.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Leo the Great Catholic Church, 2427 Marietta Ave., Lancaster, PA 17601 on Tuesday, June 15, 2021 at 10:30 a.m. with the Rev. Peter I. Hahn, Celebrant. Burial will follow in Holy Trinity Catholic Cemetery. The family will receive friends prior to the mass.

Donations in Lou's memory may be made to the Schreiber Center for Pediatric Development, 625 Community Drive, Lancaster, PA17603.

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


Send a Condolence

If you would like to send a condolence message to a family please fill out the form below and we will deliver it to them.

Suzanne Wilson

Suzanne adored her family and loved her cat, Gus.

Visitation: Friday, June 18 from 6-8:00 pm at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Columbia. Funeral Services: Saturday, June 19, 2021 starting at 11:00 a.m. and burial following Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens.

Suzanne Wilson (1 of 1).jpg

Suzanne Wilson, 74, of Marietta passed away on June 7th, 2021. She was born in Lancaster to the late Levere and Margaret Dimeler and was a lifelong resident of this area. Suzanne was retired from Armstrong World Industries. She enjoyed gardening, knitting, reading mysteries, and traveling; especially to Ocean City, MD and Disney World. Suzanne adored her family and loved her cat, Gus.

Suzanne leaves behind her daughters, Denise Neal, wife of Tarik Boughlam of Marietta, Stacey, wife of Rick Booth of Marietta; five grandchildren, Stephanie Randler, Anthony Booth, Matthew Booth, Richard Wilson, Jr, Nicholas Booth; one great grandchild, Storm Booth; her sister, Carolyn, wife of Clifford Waltz of Marietta. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband William Lee Wilson; her son, Richard Wilson, Sr; two siblings, Evelyn Michalek and Wilbur Hughes.

Services for Suzanne will be held promptly at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 19th, 2021 at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, 519 Walnut St, Columbia, PA 17512. Visitation will be held Friday, June 18th, 2021 from 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home. She will be laid to rest at Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to The Columbia Animal Shelter, 265 S. 10th St, Columbia, PA 17512 or www.columbiaanimalshelter.com. Arrangements by the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc. Columbia/Landisville. www.clydekraft.com


Send a Condolence

If you would like to send a condolence message to a family please fill out the form below and we will deliver it to them.

Darlene R. Crawford

She was very crafty and enjoyed quilting, sewing, and crocheting.

In honor of Darlene’s final wishes there will be no formal services and she will be placed in the columbarium in Sell Chapel at Masonic Village at Elizabethtown

a0837914296_10.jpg

Darlene Rose Crawford, 74, of Elizabethtown passed away on June 9th, 2021. She was born in Lancaster to the late Lewis and Ruth Weber and was a lifelong resident of this area. Darlene attended Donegal High School and worked with QVC for a number of years. She was very crafty and enjoyed quilting, sewing, and crocheting.

Darlene leaves behind her husband of 38 years Joseph Crawford of Elizabethtown and one surviving sister, Thelma. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by two siblings, Linda and Gary.

In honor of Darlene’s final wishes there will be no formal services and she will be placed in the columbarium in Sell Chapel at Masonic Village at Elizabethtown. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Sell Chapel, One Masonic Dr, Elizabethtown, PA 17022. Arrangements by the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc. Columbia/Landisville. www.clydekraft.com


Send a Condolence

If you would like to send a condolence message to a family please fill out the form below and we will deliver it to them.

Harry E. Fitzgerald

Harry leaves behind his wife of almost fifty-nine years, Betty Fitzgerald of Lancaster.

Harry will be laid to rest with military honors at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery in a private ceremony.

Harry Fitzgerald.jpg

Harry E. Fitzgerald, 84, of Lancaster and formerly Columbia, passed away on June 5th, 2021 at Hospice and Community Care in Mount Joy.

Harry leaves behind his wife of almost fifty-nine years, Betty Fitzgerald of Lancaster; two sons, David, husband of Chrissy Fitzgerald of East Petersburg, Brian Fitzgerald, companion of Bonnie Stolsfus of Landisville; five grandchildren, Allison, Ian, Evan, Caitlin Fitzgerald, Dylan Mellinger; his brother, Hiram, husband of Dee Fitzgerald of Dewitt, MI. Harry was preceded in death by his parents, Harry and Esther Fitzgerald and two sisters, Mary Esther and Kay Fitzgerald.

Harry will be laid to rest with military honors at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery in a private ceremony. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Hospice and Community Care, 685 Good Dr, Lancaster, PA 17604.


Send a Condolence

If you would like to send a condolence message to a family please fill out the form below and we will deliver it to them.

Yolanda "Joan" Eckman

No matter what was needed, be it a hug, a smile, a laugh, an ear, advice, or some truth, you'd be sure to get it from Joan.

Her presence was a gift. Her absence is deeply felt. 

Funeral Services: 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, June 9, 2021 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.

Joan will be laid to rest at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, June 16, 2021 at Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens

Yolanda Joan Eckman (1 of 1).jpg

Yolanda Joan Eckman, 73, of Lancaster passed away on June 2nd, 2021. She was born in Sandstone, WV to the late James and Harietta Davis.  Known as Joan to those who loved her, and there are many who loved her. Joan was a strong woman. She worked hard and she loved hard. To Joan, family was everything, and she was everything to her family. Through example, she taught her four daughters the value of hard work, their own self-worth, and how to stand up for themselves. Whether it was flowers, her children, grandchildren, or great grandchildren, Joan tended them all with loving care. No matter what was needed, be it a hug, a smile, a laugh, an ear, advice, or some truth, you'd be sure to get it from Joan. Her presence was a gift. Her absence is deeply felt. 

Joan leaves behind four daughters, Cindy Peters, companion of Rick Ansell of Columbia, Justine Peters, companion of Ron Heisey of Marietta, Dana Peters, companion of Craig Ulrich of Conestoga, Riki Shiffler, wife of Scott Sheffler of Perdix, PA; nine grandchildren and seven great grandchildren; two brothers, Dennis, husband of Laura Davis, Albert Struble all of Mount Joy; nephew, Larry Peters, companion of Ann Shepler of Conestoga. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband Stephen Eckman in 2012, her grandson, Jonathan Ansell, her sister, Sheila Haldeman.

Services for Joan will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, June 9th, 2021 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. She will be laid to rest at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, June 16th, 2021 at Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Ann B. Barshinger Cancer Institute, 2102 Harrisburg Pk, Lancaster, PA 17601.


Send a Condolence

If you would like to send a condolence message to a family please fill out the form below and we will deliver it to them.

Jennie H. Flay

Church and family were central to Jennie's life.

Funeral Service: Friday, June 4, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. at Advent Lutheran Church

Jenny Flay.jpg

Jennie H. Flay, 89, of York, passed away on Saturday, May 29, 2021 at Misericordia Nursing and Rehabilitation Center where she had resided for the past two months. She was the wife of the late Dean H. Flay who preceded her in death in 2011. Her first husband, Raymond L. Maxenberger, Jr. passed in 1966. Born in Columbia, she was the daughter of the late John S. and Daisy Wright Hilliar.

Jennie was a graduate of Columbia High School, Class of 1949 and was employed as a bookkeeper for Armstrong World Industries and Nickolaus Electrical Construction, Columbia for many years.

Church and family were central to Jennie's life. She grew up in Columbia and played piano and organ at St. James Lutheran Church, Columbia in her early years. In 1975, she moved to York and joined Advent Lutheran Church. She was a devoted member and supporter of special projects, sang in the Chancel Choir and was involved in the Leisure Group. Brain games were a favorite pastime. She was very proficient at Cryptograms and would gladly share her tips for solving them. She frequently had a Jigsaw Puzzle in progress. She and Dean entertained family and friends at their beloved condo in Stone Harbor, NJ for over 30 years, hosted Monday night Yahtzee games in her home and was a member of several bowling leagues and clubs (pinochle and bridge). She enjoyed watching her grandchildren excel in competitive sports. A lover of the performing arts, she was a season ticket holder at York Symphony and frequently attended local theater and music events. Her trips to NYC Broadway shows were an annual event for over 35 years.

In addition, Jennie was a member of the Appell Center for the Preforming Arts and the Women's Friendship Club of York.

She is survived by her daughter, Marie K. Maxenberger Bizal; stepchildren, Kathy A. Wanbaugh; Sandra J. wife of Daniel Artman; Deena S. wife of Burnell Carbaugh; Patrick D. husband of Leslie Flay; Dustin E. husband of Dawn Flay; ten grandchildren and 23 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her siblings, Abba Consylman, Daisy Broome, John S. Hilliar, William Hilliar, Dorothy Troutman, LaVera Livingston, Walter Hilliar and Shirley Kuhn.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, June 4, 2021 beginning at 11:00 a.m. at Advent Lutheran Church, 1775 E. Market St., York, PA 17402 with the Rev. Dr. Constance Mentzer, officiating. Burial will follow in Holy Trinity Catholic Cemetery, Columbia PA. Friends will be received at the church one hour prior to the service. Attendees are asked to wear a mask. The service will also be live streamed at Advent Lutheran Church York on YouTube. Kindly omit flowers. Contributions in Jennie's memory to the Advent Lutheran Church or to the Appell Center for the Performing Arts, 50 N. George St., York, PA 17401 would be deeply appreciated.

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


Send a Condolence

If you would like to send a condolence message to a family please fill out the form below and we will deliver it to them.

Timothy D. Hanna

Tim enjoyed attending NASCAR races with his family and friends as well as taking his grandchildren to the pony swim in Chincoteque, VA.

Celebration of life with a time of remembrance: Wednesday, July 7, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc., 519 Walnut Street, Columbia, PA 17512.

(Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m.)

Hanna Photo.jpg

Timothy David Hanna, age 63 passed away on April 30, 2021 in Brodhead WI.

Tim was born on December 14, 1957 in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, the son of Richard and Catherine (Shreiner) Hanna.

Tim was married to Donna Bong on March 2, 1998 while attending the NASCAR race in Las Vegas, NV.

Tim is survived by his wife, Donna; two children, Timothy (Lauralee) Hanna and Jennifer (Eric) Morgan; 4 grandchildren, Erica, Ryanna, Alex and Danielle; two siblings, Jeff (Renata) Hanna and Sandy (Skip) Franz and many other nieces, nephews and other family and friends.

Tim was preceded in death by his parents, and one brother, Ric Hanna.

Tim was retired after 25 years as US postal service carrier.  He loved playing in his band with his dad and brothers, the Dick Hanna Band.  He enjoyed attending NASCAR races with his family and friends as well as taking his grandchildren to the pony swim in Chincoteque, VA.   He had many fond memories of his trips to North Carolina to vacation and drink “moonshine” with his North Carolina friends.  Tim on occasion was also known bring back some of his own bootleg back to Wisconsin and eat the moonshine fruit. 

Relative and friends are invited to attend Tim’s celebration of life with a time of remembrance on Wednesday, July 7, 2021 beginning at 11:00 a.m. at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc., 519 Walnut Street, Columbia, PA 17512.  Burial will follow in Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens.  Friends will be received at the funeral home beginning at 10:00 a.m.


Send a Condolence

If you would like to send a condolence message to a family please fill out the form below and we will deliver it to them.

Gerald L. Smith, Sr.

Gerald was a Philadelphia eagles fan and a self-employed landscaper.

He will be laid to rest at Habecker cemetery In Mountville PA.

a0837914296_10.jpg

Gerald L Smith, Sr., 59, went to be with the Lord on Thursday, May 27, 2021 after losing his battle to cancer. He was the son of the late Gordon and Thelma Smith. He had a companion of 6 years Kim Bridges.

Gerald was born 1961 in Columbia Pennsylvania. He was a Philadelphia eagles fan and a self-employed landscaper. Surviving is a son Dwayne Wright and daughter Megan Bell and two sisters Bonnie Gilbert and Sandra Pope, his Four granddaughters, Malaisha, Kyaisha, Kayleigh and Gianna, two grandsons Tyler and Zander and a great granddaughter Milano. And a host of nieces and nephews. Preceding in death are 5 brothers. Gordon Jr. Dennis, Robert, George, and Randie, his son Gerald Smith Jr And one great niece Jasmyn Smith.

He will be laid to rest at Habecker cemetery In Mountville PA.


Send a Condolence

If you would like to send a condolence message to a family please fill out the form below and we will deliver it to them.

Alicia D. Zink

She was a loving mother, sister, and aunt who adored her family and treasured spending time with them.

A Celebration of Alicia’s life will be held at a later date and will be announced by her family.

Alicia Zink (1 of 1).jpg

Alicia Dawn Zink, 38, passed away on May 26th, 2021. She was born in Columbia to the late Donald. Sr. and Alicia Geesey Zink and was a lifelong resident of this area. Alicia enjoyed shopping. She was a loving mother, sister, and aunt who adored her family and treasured spending time with them.

Alicia leaves behind her son, Tyler Zink of Elizabethtown; three sisters, Stacey Kipp, fiancé of John Biglen of Elizabethtown, Brandie, wife of Tony Sinopoli of Columbia, Donna Blantz of Shenandoah, PA; two brothers, Donald, Jr., husband of Crystal Zink of Newport, PA, Joseph Zink, companion of Amber Culter of Williamstown, PA; several nieces, nephews, large extended family, and many friends. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her daughter, Alexis Zink Ortman.

A celebration of Alicia’s life will be held at a later date and will be announced by her family. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the American Diabetes Association, P.O. Box 7023, Merrifield, VA  22116-7023 or the Kidney Foundation of Central Pennsylvania, 900 S. Arlington Ave #134A, Harrisburg, PA 17109.


Send a Condolence

If you would like to send a condolence message to a family please fill out the form below and we will deliver it to them.

F. Carter Shultz

Carter proudly served in the United States Air Force.

Services with military honors will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, May 28th, 2021 at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery.

IMG-8312.jpg

F. Carter Shultz, 75, passed away on May 21st, 2021. He was born in Columbia to the late Floyd, Jr. and Evelyn Duerst Shultz. Carter was a graduate of Columbia High School and proudly served in the United States Air Force. He also attended Penn State University and was self employed for many years. Carter was a lifelong member of St. John Lutheran Church in Columbia. 

Carter leaves behind his wife of almost thirty-five years Elissa Shultz and five step-children. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one step-child.

Services with military honors will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, May 28th, 2021 at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery. Please omit flowers. Arrangements by the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc. Columbia/Landisville.


Send a Condolence

If you would like to send a condolence message to a family please fill out the form below and we will deliver it to them.

Sommer L. Graybill

She was known for her outgoing nature & striking blue eyes.

A celebration of Sommer’s life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 3rd, 2021 at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, 519 Walnut St, Columbia, PA 17512. The family will receive friends for visitation beginning at 12:00 p.m. until service time.

Sommer Graybill.jpg

Sommer Lee Graybill, of Wrightsville, passed away unexpectedly on May 20th, 2021 at the age of 48. She is survived by her parents Dawn and Robert Graybill, her stepmother Holly Graybill, her children Nicole and Paige Kiehl, her 6 sisters Teacia Ross, Casey Denk, Ashley Wall, Rebecca Rice, Tiffany King, and Elizabeth Perchalski, as well as her 19 nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her grandparents James and Lillian Emmerich and stepfather Ronald Sites, Jr.

Sommer was an advocate for animals and began working at the York SPCA at the age of 13. For many years she had a grooming shop at her home, and later in her career she became a barn manager at a local stable where she groomed horses.

Sommer adored her two daughters and spent much of her time with them at her grandfather’s cabin in Greenwood Furnace State Park. She was known for her outgoing nature and striking blue eyes. Everyone could pick her out of the crowd due to her loud and contagious laughter. Her spirit will be missed by her family and the many that loved her.

A celebration of Sommer’s life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 3rd, 2021 at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, 519 Walnut St, 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 the Pet Pantry of Lancaster County, 26 Millersville Rd, Lancaster, PA 17603 or www.petpantrylc.org. Arrangements by the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc. Columbia/Landisville. www.clydekraft.com


Send a Condolence

If you would like to send a condolence message to a family please fill out the form below and we will deliver it to them.

Shiela K. Barton

Shiela made her own craft jewelry that she would sell at various craft fairs. She also loved visiting the beaches of Ocean City, NJ and the beaches of New York.

In honor of Shiela’s final wishes, there will be no formal services

Sheila Barton.jpg

Shiela K. Barton, 72, of Columbia passed away on May 20th, 2021. She was born in Columbia to the late Roy and Annabelle Martin Barton. Shiela was a graduate of Columbia High School with the Class of 1966 where she was proud to have been voted homecoming queen. She then attended Millersville State College before graduating from Hartford Airline Personnel School. Following graduation, Shiela worked for many years with Emery Air Freight at both JFK and Newark Airports before her retirement. In 2013, she returned to Lancaster County where she enjoyed going out to eat, especially to Red Lobster. Shiela made her own craft jewelry that she would sell at various craft fairs. She also loved visiting the beaches of Ocean City, NJ and the beaches of New York. Shiela was a lifelong member of St. James Lutheran Church in Columbia.

Shiela was the last of her immediate family, however she leaves behind relatives and many friends.

In honor of Shiela’s final wishes, there will be no formal services. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to St. James Lutheran Church, 655 S. Tenth St, Columbia, PA 17512.


Send a Condolence

If you would like to send a condolence message to a family please fill out the form below and we will deliver it to them.

Cynthia E. Wilhelm

She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother who adored her family and will be missed by them and her friends.

A Celebration of Cynthia’s life will be held on Saturday, May 22nd, 2021 and further details will be announced by her family.

Cynthia E. Wilhelm (1 of 1).jpg

Cynthia E. Wilhelm, 65, of Columbia went home to be with the Lord, mother, father, and brother on May 14th, 2021. She was born in Columbia to the late Paul and Agnes Markel and was a lifelong resident of this area. Cynthia was a graduate of Columbia High School with the Class of 1973 and worked for many years with Union Community Bank. She enjoyed visiting Cook Forest State Park every summer to go canoeing, build campfires, watch for bears, and shop. Cynthia loved to watch and attend NASCAR races and driver Jeff Gordon was her favorite. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother who adored her family and will be missed by them and her friends.

Cynthia leaves behind her husband of almost forty-five years Scott Wilhelm of Columbia; two daughters, Lynn Wilhelm, companion of Bucc Rice of Wrightsville, Jen Wilhelm of Wrightsville; three grandchildren, Alyssa Hess, Jazleena Neal, Trinity Rice; one great grandchild, Alize’ Virola.

A celebration of Cynthia’s life will be held on Saturday, May 22nd, 2021 and further details will be announced by her family. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Alzheimer’s Foundation of America, 322 8th Ave, New York, NY 10001 or www.alzfdn.org. Arrangements by the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc. Columbia/Landisville www.clydekraft.com


Send a Condolence

If you would like to send a condolence message to a family please fill out the form below and we will deliver it to them.

Mae H. Landis

Mae enjoyed birdwatching and will be remembered by her family as an excellent cook

Graveside Services: Tuesday, May 18, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. in Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens, Columbia.

Mae Landis photo.jpg

Mae H. Landis, 89, of Washington Boro, passed away on Sunday, May 9, 2021 at Penn Medicine LGH. She was the wife of the late Jay R. Landis, Sr. who preceded her in death in 2001. Born in Creswell, she was the daughter of the late Roy F. and Esther Hoak Gantz.

Mae graduated from Penn Manor High School in 1949. A homemaker, she also was employed by Hinkle's Restaurant in Columbia where she worked as a cook for many years. For the past 18 years she volunteered at the Columbia Re-Uzit-Shop Store which she really enjoyed. Mae was a member of the Washington Boro Church of God and enjoyed the company of her family, friends and neighbors. She enjoyed birdwatching and will be remembered by her family as an excellent cook.

She is survived by her two daughters, Barbara, wife of Joseph Eshleman, Jr; Jean L. Weller; two grandsons, Dan Weller and Kevin, husband of Luann Weller; brother, Dean, husband of Anne Gantz. She was preceded in death by her son, J. Roy Landis and siblings, Mildred Brown, Hilda Deardorff, Helen Gentzer and Roy H. Gantz.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a graveside service on Tuesday, May 18, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. in Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens Columbia, PA. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Mae's memory may be made to the Columbia Re-Uzit-Shop, 363 Locust St., Columbia, PA 17512.

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

www.clydekraft.com


Send a Condolence

If you would like to send a condolence message to a family please fill out the form below and we will deliver it to them.

John E. Kline, Sr.

John enjoyed gardening, bird watching and the company of his beloved cat, Willie.

Private services will be held with full military honors in Silver Spring Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

John KLine.jpg

John E. Kline, Sr., 97, formerly of Elizabethtown, passed away on Friday, April 30, 2021 at Juniper Village at Mount Joy. He was the husband of Leara Farmer Kline and the late Ida Morrison Kline. Born in Maytown, he was the son of the late John S. and Ida Mae Markel.

John was a U.S. Navy veteran of WWII having served in the Atlantic and Pacific Theaters of Operation. He retired as a carpenter from the Warfel Construction Company where he was employed for over 40 years. He attended the Steven Hill Community Church of the Brethren and enjoyed gardening, bird watching and the company of his beloved cat, Willie.

In addition to his wife are his sons, Bernard (Sandra); John E. Jr. (Judith); Robert; Brian (Joann); Keith; stepson, David Farmer (Carol); 15 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren and five great-great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by 11 brothers and sisters.

Private services will be held with full military honors in Silver Spring Cemetery at the convenience of the family. If desired, a donation in John's memory may be made to the charity of one's choice.


Send a Condolence

If you would like to send a condolence message to a family please fill out the form below and we will deliver it to them.

Lillian V. Hoffer

A vivacious woman with a contagious laugh, Lillian was a lover of life who enjoyed spending time with her immediate and extended family, as well as longtime friends who became family .

Mass: Tuesday, May 11, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. from St. Peter Catholic Church, Columbia. The family will receive friends from 10:00 a.m. until the start of the service.

Lillian Hoffer.jpg

Lillian V. (Storm) Hoffer, 82, died on May 3, 2021 at Lancaster General Hospital following a complication stemming from chronic heart disease.

Lillian would proudly proclaim to anyone and everyone that she was “born and raised” in Columbia. She was one of eight children of John Storm Sr. and Lillian (Spiese) Storm.

Lillian attended Columbia High School, leaving school prior to graduation to start a family with her first husband, James M. Holtzinger Sr. She is survived by James and three of their children, Cora Rowe, of Wrightsville; John C. Holtzinger, of Wrightsville; and Joel S. Holtzinger, of Springettsbury Township. She was preceded in death by her oldest son, James “Jamie” M. Holtzinger Jr.; her second husband, Lester Eugene Hoffer; her parents; and four of her siblings.

Lillian is also survived by her brothers, Albert Storm, of Columbia; Leo Storm, of Columbia; and Tom Storm, of Georgia; as well as numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and nieces and nephews.

A lifelong, diehard Philadelphia Phillies fan, Lillian loved watching the Fightin’ Phils play – especially when her team won against American League rivals that other family members root for, including the Baltimore Orioles and New York Yankees. Richie Ashburn was her favorite Phillie, with Chase Utley as a close second, largely due to his hand in bringing the World Series championship back to the City of Brotherly Love in 2008.

A vivacious woman with a contagious laugh, Lillian was a lover of life who enjoyed spending time with her immediate and extended family, as well as longtime friends who became family. Lillian met Maryruth Gerfin in the maternity ward of the hospital when the two shared a room. The young mothers remained the best of friends for the more than 50 years that followed.

During her years as a homeowner in Marietta, Lillian, and her husband, Lester, hosted annual family get-togethers to coincide with the locally famous Fourth of July fireworks celebrations in town. After indulging in her homemade whoopie pies, dump salad, and other picnic eats, she and her family would sit out on the lawn and watch the festival of lights in the sky.

To know Lillian was to love her. She was a true and genuine friend to all she met and an advocate for those who were marginalized. She was involved with and supported the Columbia Food Bank.

An anomaly in some regards, Lillian loved butterflies and getting her hair done as much as she loved her Phillies. In her free time, she enjoyed painting ceramics with a group of fellow crafters at Saint Peter Apartments, where she had lived for more than 15 years. She was a parishioner of St. Peter Roman Catholic Church in Columbia.

Lillian was an avid reader of books in general and suspense thrillers by authors such as Stephen King, Dean Koontz, and John Saul, in particular. She also enjoyed listening to country music, including Johnny Cash and Dolly Parton, and doing crosswords and puzzles in her spare time.

A natural green thumb, her many plants have adorned her windowsills in all her residences.

Lillian retired from R&S Manufacturing Co. in Columbia after many years of dedicated service. She later worked as a cashier in the Kmart pharmacy department.

A mass of Christian burial will be held to honor Lillian on Tuesday, May 11, 2021 at 11 a.m. at St. Peter Catholic Church, 121 S. Second Street in Columbia. If you wish, please join Lillian in her love of the Phillies by wearing your favorite Philadelphia Phillies attire to her service. The family will receive friends from 10 a.m. until the start of the service. Internment to follow at Fairview Cemetery, 600 Hellam Street, Wrightsville.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution to the American Heart Association.


Send a Condolence

If you would like to send a condolence message to a family please fill out the form below and we will deliver it to them.

John W. "Bum" Klinestever

Bum was a dedicated life member of the Columbia Borough Fire Department (The Hambones) having served both as a fire line officer, administrative officer, & was currently serving as a department trustee.

Graveside Services: Friday, May 7, 2021 at 11:00 am from Holy Trinity Catholic Cemetery.

John Klinestever photo.jpg

John W. "Bum" Klinestever, 72, of Columbia, passed away on Saturday, May 1, 2021 at his residence. He was the husband of the late Joyce Nace Klinestever who preceded him in death in 2020. A lifelong Columbia resident, he was the son of the late George A. Jr. and Nancy Mimnall Klinestever.

A Columbia High School graduate, Class of 1967, Bum had been employed by Littles Beverage Center, Columbia for over 50 years. He was also a dedicated life member of the Columbia Borough Fire Department (The Hambones) having served both as a fire line officer, administrative officer, and was currently serving as a department trustee. In addition, he was an avid Notre Dame football fan.

Surviving are two daughters, Tiffany Klinestever; Kristy Ortman; three grandchildren, Trenton, Aaron, Courtney; two sisters, Anna "Sis" Horner and Kim McCue wife of Andrew Kazlauskas.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend the graveside service on Friday, May 7, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. in Holy Trinity Catholic Cemetery, Tenth and Manor Streets, Columbia, PA.

If desired, please consider a donation in John's memory to the Columbia Borough Fire Dept., PO Box 426, Columbia, PA 17512.


Send a Condolence

If you would like to send a condolence message to a family please fill out the form below and we will deliver it to them.

Nancy L. Clark

Nancy worked at various diners and restaurants over the years, including Hinkle's, Mountville Diner, and Columbia Diner.

Services: Tuesday, May 4, 2021 at 11:00 a.m at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home

Nancy Clark.jpg

Nancy Clark entered into eternal rest on April 30, 2021. Born in Columbia, she was the daughter of the late William T. Clark and Gladys Anderson Clark. Born in 1942 shortly before her father left for the Army Air Corps for service in WWII, she didn't see her father for the next two years. During this time, she and her mother lived on her grandparents' farm in southern York County while her mother attended nursing school at York Hospital.

Nancy was very independent and lived in her own apartment. In 1983, she moved into St. Peter's Apartments where she resided until her death. She was the only original resident there since it opened 38 years ago. Nancy worked at various diners and restaurants over the years, including Hinkle's, Mountville Diner, and Columbia Diner. She was born and raised attending the Columbia Presbyterian Church.

She is survived by her brother Bill and his wife Judy (Haug), who was Nancy's amazing caregiver, and her sister-in-law Carla (Manley) Clark. In addition, she is survived by her niece Sherri Clark Long, nephew Will Clark, nephew Michael Clark, Jr., niece Erin Clark, and 9 great-nieces and great-nephews. She was predeceased by her parents and her brother, Michael Anderson Clark, who passed recently.

Services will be held at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc., 519 Walnut St., Columbia, PA on Tuesday, May 4, 2021 with visitation at 10:00 a.m. and a service following at 11:00 a.m. Nancy will be buried at the Silver Spring Cemetery, next to her parents, at the convenience of her family. If desired, kindly consider a donation in Nancy's memory to Albright Life, 417 W. Frederick St., Lancaster, PA 17603.


Send a Condolence

If you would like to send a condolence message to a family please fill out the form below and we will deliver it to them.

Judy A. Kurtz

Judy lived an example of Christ in her heart and showed Christ's love to her family and friends everyday.

Funeral services: Monday, April 26, 2021 at 11:00 am at Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc., Columbia. Interment will follow in Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens. Friends may view at the funeral home one hour prior to the service.

Judy Kurtz.jpg

Judy A. Kurtz, 80, of Mountville, PA went to her heavenly rest at Susquehanna Valley Nursing home. Judy was the wife of the late Charles R. Kurtz who died May 8, 1998 whom she was married to for 41 years. She was born in Lancaster to the late Mildred (Eckman) and Woodrow Brown.

Judy lived an example of Christ in her heart and showed Christ's love to her family and friends everyday. She shared her love, friendship and home for 15 years with many foster children. She with her husband owned and operated C & J Snack Bar for 15 years at Saturday's Market in Middletown until her retirement.

Judy enjoyed gospel cruises and camping with her family and friends the "Country Travelers". Judy's love of every thing Walt Disney World was infectious and spread throughout her family.

Judy is survived by three daughters and two sons: Pamela Overmeyer wife of George Overmeyer, Mountville, Charlene Steele wife of Thomas Steele, Mount Joy, Charles R. Kurtz, Jr. husband of Jill (Kasper) Kurtz, Mountville, Sandy Kurtz, Mountville, and

Randy Kurtz, Lititz. Also she is survived by eight grandchildren, thirteen great-grandchildren, and one brother, Thomas G. Brown, husband of Sherry Brown and one sister, Roxanne Nein.

Funeral services will be held at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc., 519 Walnut St., Columbia, PA 17512 on Monday, April 26, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. with the Rev. Robert C. Drescher, officiating. Interment will follow in Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens. Friends may view at the funeral home on hour prior to the service.

Kindly omit flowers. If desired please consider a donation in Judy's memory to the American Diabetes Association or the American Heart Association.


Send a Condolence

If you would like to send a condolence message to a family please fill out the form below and we will deliver it to them.

Evelyn Rodkey

Evelyn will be laid to rest during a private graveside service at Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens. A celebration of Evelyn’s life will follow at the Salem U.C.C., 324 Walnut Street, Columbia, on a date to be announced.

Rodkey%2C+Evelyn+PC+1.jpg

Evelyn K. Rodkey, 93, of Columbia, passed away on Monday, April 19, 2021 at St. Anne’s Retirement Community. Born in Lancaster, she was the daughter of the late Lloyd and Daisy Kline. Evelyn married the late John Rodkey, Jr. in 1950. 

Evelyn was a graduate of Columbia High School, class of 1945. She went on to achieve her Bachelor of Science degree at Millersville University and her Master’s degree in Reading Education at the University of Delaware. Evelyn retired from the Lancaster-Lebanon IU13 where she worked as a remedial reading and math teacher. She was a member of the Salem U.C.C. of Columbia, and served as treasurer of the Columbia Public Library. She enjoyed singing and sang in several church choirs over the years.  She also performed with the Lancaster Opera Workshop where she portrayed the "trouser role" of Prince Orlofsky in "Die Fledermaus" by Richard Strauss. Evelyn possessed many skills and interests in her life including sewing and painting.   She was an avid sports fan and after making her home at St. Anne’s in 2010 she could be found watching her favorite baseball team, the Philadelphia Phillies, or hockey games, tennis matches or other sporting event on the TV. She also read the newspaper and did the puzzles each day, read one book after another and occasionally played a game that was offered.

Evelyn is survived by her sister, Vivian K. Spiese, of Conestoga; and several nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by her brother, Lloyd W. Kline. 
          Evelyn will be laid to rest during a private graveside service at Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens. A celebration of Evelyn’s life will follow at the Salem U.C.C., 324 Walnut Street, Columbia, on a date to be announced.   In lieu of flowers, kindly consider a donation to the Columbia Public Library, 24 S. 6th St., Columbia, PA 17512 (columbiapubliclibrary.org) or the Salem U.C.C. Arrangements by the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Columbia/Landisville. www.clydekraft.com 


Send a Condolence

If you would like to send a condolence message to a family please fill out the form below and we will deliver it to them.