Posts in obituaries
Cora Darlene Burger

Darlene enjoyed camping, fishing, annual trips to Florida and playing Bingo.

At Darlene’s request there will be no public services.

 

Cora Darlene Burger, 77 of Landisville, formerly of Lewistown, passed away on Monday, September 9, 2024 surrounded by her loving family at Penn Medicine-LGH. She was the wife of James K. Burger with whom they would have celebrated 44 years of marriage this September 26th.  Born in Baltimore, she was the daughter of the late Billie Joe and Phyllis Fleisher Jasper.

Known to her family and friends as Darlene, she was employed for many years at Hodecker’s Celery Farm. She was a member of American Legion Auxiliary Post 466 and the former Landisville Fire Co. Auxiliary. Darlene enjoyed camping, fishing, annual trips to Florida and playing Bingo. Most important to her was spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren and great grandchildren.

In addition to her husband, she is survived by her children, Richenda Kettering; Mike Burger (Carol); Lori Eshleman (Gene); Sandi Shaub (Vince); Deanna Fischer (Dave); Ed Specht (Kerry); Teresa Martin (Steve); Brian Specht (Carolyn); 11 grandchildren; 12 great grandchildren; brothers, Chet, Ed, Lyle, Tom and sister Mil. She was preceded in death by her grandsons, Shawn Shaub, Andrew Specht and her sister, Diane Chalfant.

At Darlene’s request there will be no public services. If desired, a donation in her name may be made to your local fire department.


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obituariesKelly BrommerComment
Janet Mae Harry

Her most important and enjoyable work was being a homemaker and taking care of her family.

A Memorial Service will be held at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, 519 Walnut St, Columbia, PA 17512. on Monday, September 9, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. visitation will begin at the funeral home at 12:00 p.m. until the service.

Interment will follow in Concordia Lutheran Cemetery.

 

Janet Mae Harry, 96, loving wife, adoring mother, grandmother, great grandmother, aunt, and sister in Christ died peacefully in the loving arms of the Lord on Tuesday, September 3, 2024.  She was the wife of the late Earl Harry.

Janet was born in Columbia, PA the daughter of the late John J. Kilp and Ethel E. Nissley Kilp. Although small in stature, she was big sister to the late Joyce Kilp Jetton.

Janet grew up in Columbia where she enjoyed dancing and music. She was a skilled pianist and played organ at Saint John’s Lutheran Church and Concordia Lutheran Church. Janet was a life long Lutheran and a charter member of Reformation Lutheran Church where her faith continued to grow.

Janet and Earl met at Columbia High School and were married on October 22, 1949. They enjoyed 74 years of marriage until his death on June 29, 2024. She is now reunited with Earl in the arms of the Lord.

Mrs. Harry graduated from Columbia High School in 1946 and worked at Hamilton Watch before marrying Earl. Over the years she had temporary jobs, but her most important and enjoyable work was being a homemaker and taking care of her family. Throughout her life she enjoyed the beauty of God’s creation, decorating, flowers, singing, telling stories about her childhood, holding, and loving each of her babies, and creating memories with her family at the many celebrations throughout the years. She liked watching them grow.

Surviving Janet are two daughters: Janis Richardson (Barry) of Lancaster; Joanne Thomas (Robert Jr.) of Columbia; and son, Earl Jeffrey (Peg) of Marietta. Seven grandchildren also survive: Scott Richardson (Yara Graupera); Matthew (Amy) Richardson; Ellen Richardson (Jason Stoltzfus); Abby (Nathan) Martin; Robert (Sarah) Thomas III; E. Jeffrey (Emily) Harry Jr.; Rachel (Ryan) Mock. Janet was also blessed with 13 great grandchildren.

Janet and Earl were fortunate to be able to travel throughout the USA, but she was always glad to be back home in PA. A Memorial Service will be held at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, 519 Walnut St, Columbia, PA 17512. on Monday, September 9, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. with Pastor Mark Chavez officiating. Interment will follow in Concordia Lutheran Cemetery. The family will receive friends for visitation beginning at 12:00 p.m. until service time. Memorial contributions may be made in her memory to Reformation Lutheran Church Building Fund at the following address, 2100 Manor Ridge Drive, Lancaster, PA 17603.


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Leonard Godfrey Snyder

Len was also an excellent woodcarver and truly a larger than life character who almost always left people laughing and smiling. 

Services will be held on Saturday, November 9th at 1:30 pm at the Brossman Ballroom Freemason Cultural Center Masonic Village in Elizabethtown, Pa. with a luncheon served immediately afterwards.

 

Leonard Godfrey Snyder, 95, passed from our world on Sunday, August 25, 2024 after six (6) years at the Masonic Village (Elizabethtown) where he was beloved by staff and fellow residents for his wit and humor, his singing and his colorful jokes.  Married to Betty for 71 years, together they raised four (4) children:  David (wife Lani), Lauri, Thom (wife Cathy) and Anne as well as four (4) grandchildren, Emily (husband Dan), Marc, Marisa and Luke and two great-grandchildren, Owen and Elliot.

Born in 1929 in Lebanon, PA, his grandparents, his mother, and 9 aunts and uncles surrounded him with love.   His grandmother, Sevilla, was Len’s primary caregiver and at about 4’ 10” was indisputably in charge.  Len grew large and strong and looked older than his age.  At only 15 he was starting center and middle linebacker for his high school football team. At 16, Len lied about his age and enlisted to serve in the US Army during WWII.  He tested so well the Army made him an MP.  In addition to corralling disorderly US soldiers in occupied Germany, he was in charge of the Bad Tolz brig where prisoners headed to trial at Nuremberg were held and protected from German snipers. 

Returning home, he met Betty, and had many different jobs:  milkman, paint salesman, insurance, and many auto sales and GM roles around Lancaster.  Nicknamed Clem by his numerous friends, Leonard was very generous with others even when he did not have a lot himself.  Meaningfully, he pledged as a freemason and later became Worshipful Master of the Casiphia Lodge #551 in Mt. Joy (now Ashara-Casiphia) building many lifelong friendships.  

Len loved being the GM at Indian Springs Golf Club (now Four Seasons) where he introduced early golf simulator screens and built their first miniature golf course.  Many fond memories were created while working with his oldest son, David, at Len Snyder’s Used Cars in Mountville, Pa.  When Len retired he worked the pro shop and was a marshal at Four Seasons and was an avid golfer, sporting a 7 handicap at one time.  An ardent fan of the Phillies and Eagles, Len was also an excellent woodcarver and truly a larger than life character who almost always left people laughing and smiling.  

Len loved dogs very much and so, in lieu of flowers, the family requested that donations be made to:  Charlie’s Crusaders, a 501(c)(3) non-profit pet rescue and foster organization at charliescrusaders.org.  Services will be held on Saturday, November 9th at 1:30 pm at the Brossman Ballroom Freemason Cultural Center Masonic Village in Elizabethtown, Pa. with a luncheon served immediately afterwards.  For further information please contact the MV event coordinator at 717-367-1121 Ext 33472.  The family is being assisted by the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home at www.clydekraft.com.  




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Richard Lee Geiman

Everywhere he went, he knew someone, and every person he knew seemed to have their very own inside jokes with him.

A visitation in celebration of Richard’s life will be held from 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, September 5, 2024 at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, 519 Walnut St, Columbia, PA 17512.

 

When you meet someone that has the strength of an ox, heart of lion, and the ability to fix absolutely anything, you never think you’ll see the day that they’re gone.

Richard Lee Geiman Sr, 57, husband of 31 years to Lisa Geiman and father of his 5 children: Keena, Ricky Jr, AJ, Payton and Cameron, created a vision of the strongest man alive, while also showing the softest heart to many other family members and friends. The same shoulder he carried transmissions on, he’d also let you cry on. No vehicle or dirt bike was unfixable. No person too lost for him to try to help.

His happiest days were spent surrounded by his family and friends, playing foosball or cornhole, singing to 80’s hair bands or country music; either serenading his wife, or changing the lyrics to make fun of you in some manor; and sipping on an ice-cold beer; while grilling enough food to feed anyone that was hungry. Everywhere he went, he knew someone, and every person he knew seemed to have their very own inside jokes with him.

Rick was born in Baltimore, MD and raised by Joanne and George Shoemaker. He was a graduate of Hempfield High School with the Class of 1985 and served in The United States Army, after which he spent his life making countless friends in Columbia, PA, where he was the owner of Geiman Family Automotive, which he proudly ran with both of his sons.

Rick unexpectedly passed away on August 22, 2024. A visitation in celebration of Richard’s life will be held from 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, September 5, 2024 at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, 519 Walnut St, Columbia, PA 17512.  In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to Richard’s Go Fund Me at www.gofundme.com/f/help-the-geiman-family-through-this-difficult-time. Arrangements by the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc. Columbia/Landisville www.clydekraft.com


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Amos W. Ortman

Amos enjoyed watching Nascar races and the Washington Redskins-Commanders.

A viewing will be held on Saturday, August 31, 2024 from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 noon at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc. 519 Walnut St. Columbia PA.

Amos W. Ortman, 69 of Columbia, passed away on Saturday, August 24, 2024. Born in Columbia, he was the son of the late Amos R. and Mary Winkle Ortman.

Amos retired from Yellow Freight and the Pennsylvania National Guard and also served in the U.S Army during the Vietnam War. Amos enjoyed watching Nascar races and the Washington Redskins-Commanders.

Surviving is his wife, Cynthia Holland Ortman; sons, Scott M. Ortman; Amos W. Ortman; three grandchildren; sisters, Sharon Boyles (late Ronnie); Patricia Sholly (Gerald) and Catherine Rideaux.

A viewing will be held on Saturday, August 31, 2024 from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 noon at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc. 519 Walnut St. Columbia PA. A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, SEPTEMBER 28, 2024 from 12:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. at the Foresters of America, 201 Locust St. Columbia PA. In leui of flowers, contributions may be made to Hospice and Community Care at www.hospiceandcommunitycare.org.


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Spurgeon H. Cunningham, Jr.

He enjoyed gardening and spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren and great grandchildren.

memorial service: Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc. 519 Walnut St. Columbia PA on Wednesday, September 4, 2024 at 11:00 a.m.

The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.

 

Spurgeon H. Cunningham, Jr., 90 of Wrightsville, passed away on Friday, August 23, 2024 at Wellspan York Hospital. He was the husband of the late Elizabeth Shaud Cunningham with whom he was married 65 years until her death in 2018. Born in Hallam PA, he was the son of the late Spurgeon H. Sr. and Estella Reever Cunningham.

Spurgeon was employed for over 40 years as a supervisor in the cutting department of the former Roanna Girl Sewing Factory. He was a longtime member of the Longstown U.M. Church and the VFW Post 7045, Hallam. In his earlier years he played softball for several leagues in the area. In addition, he enjoyed gardening and spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren and great grandchildren.

He is survived by his children, David H. Cunningham (Debra); Diane E. Peters (Steven); Bonnie S. Cunningham; four granddaughters; five great grandchildren; brothers, James; Blaine; Barry; Alan; Mark; sisters, June Clinton; Alma Klahold; Phyllis Dellinger; Darlene Evans. He was preceded in death by his son, Steven A. Cunningham; three grandsons; and siblings, Preston, Clarence, Dennis, Kenneth, Robert, Gladys, Patsy, Mary Lou, Judith and Linda.

A memorial service will be held at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc. 519 Walnut St. Columbia PA on Wednesday, September 4, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. with Rev. Laura Holtzapple, officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. If desired, memorial contributions in Spurgeon’s name may be made to the Longstown U.M. Church, 2975 Carol Rd. York PA 17402 or to the American Heart Association at www.heart.org.


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Thomas L. Miller

Thomas enjoyed woodworking and traveling in his younger years.

Mass of Christian Burial: 11:00 a.m. on Friday, August 30, 2024 at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 409 Cherry St, Columbia, PA 17512.

Visitation will be held from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, August 29, 2024 at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, 519 Walnut St, Columbia, PA 17512 and also 10:00 a.m. until service time on Friday at the church.

He will be laid to rest, with military honors, at Holy Trinity Catholic Cemetery.

 

Thomas L. Miller, 83, of Mount Joy passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on August 25, 2024. He was born in Columbia to the late Henry, Jr. and Catherine Miller and was a lifelong resident of this area.

Thomas was a graduate of Lancaster Catholic High School with the Class of 1960. He proudly served in the United States Air Force and following his service he worked as an electrician for forty-three years with Armstrong World Industries until his retirement in 2001. Thomas enjoyed woodworking and traveling in his younger years. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather who was always present for his grandchildren and their sporting activities.

Thomas leaves behind his wife of sixty-one years Sharon Miller of Mount Joy; four children, Eric, husband of Amanda Miller of Abilene, TX, Patrick, husband of Kelly Miller of Fort Myers, FL, Elaine, wife of Craig Groft of Marietta, Matthew, husband of Christine Miller of Marietta; twelve grandchildren and eleven great grandchildren; a sister, Catherine Gift of Ephrata; several nieces and nephews and a large extended family. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two brothers, Henry Miller, III and Francis Miller.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, August 30, 2024 at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 409 Cherry St, Columbia, PA 17512. Visitation will be held from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, August 29, 2024 at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, 519 Walnut St, Columbia, PA 17512 and also 10:00 a.m. until service time on Friday at the church. He will be laid to rest, with military honors, at Holy Trinity Catholic Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Red Rose Veterans Honor Guard, Inc. Red Rose Veterans Honor Guard, Inc., P.O. Box 8601, Lancaster, PA 17604 or www.rrveteranshg.org.


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Joseph J. Foehlinger

Joe graduated from Hempfield High School in 1991 and was employed as a foundryman at Donsco, Inc.

Mass of Christian Burial: St. Peter's Catholic Church, 121 S. Second St, Columbia, PA 17512 on Fri, August 30, 2024 at 11:00 a.m.

The family will receive friends one hour prior to the mass.

 

Joseph J. Foehlinger, Jr., 51 of Wrightsville, formerly of Columbia, passed away at the family home early Friday morning, August 23, 2024. Born in Columbia, he was the son of Joseph J. Sr. and Judith (Judy) Lowery Foehlinger.

Joe graduated from Hempfield High School in 1991 and was employed as a foundryman at Donsco, Inc. Wrightsville and was a member of St. Peter's Catholic Church, Columbia.

In addition to his parents are his children, Sophie Moore; Katrina Davis (Robert); Joseph J. Foehlinger III; Sierra Foehlinger; Kasey Foehlinger; five grandchildren; brother, Donald Foehlinger and sister Diana Brown (Tom).

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held from St. Peter's Catholic Church, 121 S. Second St, Columbia, PA 17512 on Friday, August 30, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. with the Rev. Joshua Brommer, Celebrant. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the mass. Please omit flowers. Donations to assist the family with funeral expenses may be made to the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc., PO Box 231, Columbia, PA 17512.


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Jon A. Kilheffer

In his leisure time Jon enjoyed bowling and Scrabble.

graveside services in the Washington Boro Cemetery on Tuesday, August 27, 2024 at 10:30 a.m. followed by a memorial service in the adjoining Washington Boro Church of God, 15 Rockfish St., Washington Boro, PA 17582 beginning at 11:00 a.m.

 

Jon A. Kilheffer, 75, formerly of Columbia and Washington Boro, went home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, August 20, 2024 at Luther Acres where he resided since February. Born in Columbia, he was the son of the late Ralph and Emma Eshleman Kilheffer.

A graduate of Penn Manor High School Class of 1967 he continued his education at the Pillsbury Baptist Bible College for four years. Jon retired in 2014 after 35 years of service from the C-B Tool Company, Lancaster where he was employed as a delivery truck driver. He was an active member of the Washington Boro Church of God where he served as an usher and greeter. In his leisure time Jon enjoyed bowling and Scrabble.

He is survived by his sisters, Sandra K. wife of Charles Habecker, Lansdale, PA and Linda K. wife of the late Kimber "Kim" Lippiat, Jr. of Mount Joy. Seven nieces also survive.

Family and friends are invited to attend graveside services in the Washington Boro Cemetery on Tuesday, August 27, 2024 at 10:30 a.m. followed by a memorial service in the adjoining Washington Boro Church of God, 15 Rockfish St., Washington Boro, PA 17582 beginning at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor David Johnson, officiating.

If desired, memorial contributions may be made in Jon's memory to the Washington Boro Church of God or to the Central Manor Camp Meeting Association, PO Box 103, Washington Boro, PA 17582 or at: www.centralmanorcamp.org


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Todd Michael Smith

Todd loved nature.

Services will be private per Todd’s request.

 

Todd Michael Smith, 55 of Columbia passed away Thursday August 22 at Hershey Medical Center after a brief illness.

Todd was born at Columbia Hospital March 30, 1969 to the late Sue E. (Rupp) Smith and Clyde J, (Tick) Smith of Columbia. He was a 1987 graduate of Columbia High School.

Following his father’s footsteps, he had a passion for photography and art. He took many pictures of local nature scenes and would sell them at festivals and galleries.

Todd loved nature. He spent many hours in his canoe on the Susquehanna always with his camera on his shoulder. He is survived by two brothers Tim and Eric Smith of Columbia.

I’m sure Todd would want to thank the caring staff at Hershey for their attention in his final hours.

Services will be private per Todd’s request.


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Estella K. Mason

Estella enjoyed playing cards and camping.

A celebration of life will be held on Friday, August 23, 2024 beginning at 2:00 p.m. in the activities room at the Susquehanna Health and Wellness Center, 745 Chickies Hill Road Columbia PA 17512.

 

Estella K. “Ookie” Mason, 82 of Columbia, passed away on Monday, August 19, 2024 at the Susquehanna Health and Wellness Center. She was the wife of the late Charles H. Mason. Born in Hershey, she was the daughter of the late Charles S. and Bertha Lentz Keim.

Ookie retired from KOA Campgrounds as an administrator and previously was employed by Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Kreider’s Creamery and Wilton Armetale.

Estella enjoyed playing cards and camping.  But most of all she cherished every moment spent with her family and took immense joy in the company of her grandchildren.

Her love for the Lord was unwavering, and it shone brightly in the way she loved and cared for others, always. Her faith was the source of her peace and strength throughout her life.

She is survived by her children, Nancy Wilderson (John); Penny Manotti (William III); Karla Mull (late Jeffrey); Tony Mason (Tina); grandchildren, Jeffrey Mull, Jr. (Jennifer); James Marley III (Whitney); Tiffany Campbell; Mark Spicer (Lynsey); William Manotti IV, Jessica Estep (Rick); Ben Manotti; 12 great grandchildren; sister, Sally Bohn (late Rev. Donald). She was preceded in death by her daughter, Anita Fox, siblings, Nancy Strausbaugh and John S. Keim.

A celebration of life will be held on Friday, August 23, 2024 beginning at 2:00 p.m. in the activities room at the Susquehanna Health and Wellness Center, 745 Chickies Hill Road Columbia PA 17512.

 


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James McKinley Rhoads

He devoted his life to the Columbia Community and School District in his roles as a teacher, coach and administrator.

A Celebration of Jim’s Life will be held on Saturday, August 24, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. from the Columbia United Methodist Church, 510 Walnut Street, Columbia, PA 17512.

The visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. until time of the service at the church.

 

James McKinley Rhoads, devoted husband, father, and Pappy, met His Savior face to face on August 15, 2024. Jim was born on March 22, 1963 to John and Jeanette (Leib) Rhoads in Tonawanda, NY.  It was there he developed his undying love and passion for the Buffalo Bills. He shaped this zeal with his dad, brother, John (deceased), and sister, Mary Jo who survives.

Jim attended Grove City College where he met the love of his life, Roberta “Bert” Scheer whom he married on June 7, 1986. He graduated with a degree in Biology and Secondary Education. He devoted his life to the Columbia Community and School District in his roles as a teacher, coach and administrator. Most important, to Jim was leaving a legacy of faith for all those who knew him. His favorite activities included cheering on his Buffalo Bills with his family, hiking, and bike riding with his wife, and loving on his grandchildren. He had a heart for helping his family and neighbors using his eye for detail and precision to do many home projects. 

Jim leaves behind his wife, a daughter, Danielle (Ty) Coleman and sons, Bobby (Brooke) and Josh (Josi). He was Pappy to Ali, Eli, Izzy and Julianna Coleman and Jack and Norah Rhoads. Jim will also be missed by his dog, Tucker. Jim was preceded in death by his parents and brother.

A Celebration of Jim’s Life will be held on Saturday, August 24, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. from the Columbia United Methodist Church, 510 Walnut Street, Columbia, PA 17512 with Pastor Lee Manuel, officiating. The visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. until time of the service at the church. A private luncheon will be held following the service.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the James Rhoads Scholarship Fund at:

https://tinyurl.com/JMRScholar

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


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Kyle L. Hoffman

Kyle was a master electrician who enjoyed video games, attending the Renaissance Fair, and being “Poppy” to his grandson, Beckett.

celebration of Kyle’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, August 22, 2024 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.

 

Kyle Hoffman, 52, of Marietta passed away on August 8, 2024. He was born in Columbia and was a 1989 graduate of Hempfield High School. Kyle was a master electrician who enjoyed video games, attending the Renaissance Fair, and being “Poppy” to his grandson, Beckett. Kyle was a hardworking man who adored his family and treasured spending time with them.

Kyle leaves behind his wife of almost thirty-one years Angie Hoffman of Marietta; two children, Kody Hoffman, husband of Brandi Geib of Mount Joy, Kylie Hoffman, fiancé of Cody Weitkamp of Maytown; one grandson, Beckett; his mother-in-law and father-in-law Deb and Ken Lefever of Marietta; his canine companions, Blue and Halo. He was preceded in death by his grandparents William and Jane Hoffman of Ironville, PA

A celebration of Kyle’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, August 22, 2024 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. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the American Heart Association,4250 Crums Mill Rd, Harrisburg, PA 17112.


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Nancy R. Reitz

Nancy was a faithful and active member of Church of God of Landisville for sixty years where she loved working in the nursery and teaching Sunday school.

Services for Nancy will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, August 7, 2024 at Church of God of Landisville, 171 Church St, Landisville, PA 17538.

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 Salunga Mennonite CemeterY.

 

Nancy Everly Reitz. 84, of Salunga passed away on July 31, 2024 at Legend of Lititz. She was the wife of the late James F. Reitz, Sr. who preceded her in 2017. Born in Lewistown, Nancy was the daughter of the late Richard, Sr. and Ruth Carpenter Everly.

She worked at Dutch Gold Honey for fifteen years and was also a homemaker. Nancy was a faithful and active member of Church of God of Landisville for sixty years where she loved working in the nursery and teaching Sunday school. She also served as a deaconess, church council, elder, FLOW program for seniors, vacation bible school, prayer groups, and mission trips. Nancy was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother, and sister who adored her family and treasured spending time with them.

Her family would like to personally say thank you to the Legend of Lititz family for the love and care they gave to Nancy.

Nancy leaves behind her children, James, Jr., husband of Liyan Reitz of Manheim, Tammy Reitz-Lewis, wife of Bruce Lewis of Livingston, TN, Susan, wife of Eric Nafziger of Parkesburg; grandchildren, Zachary Reitz (son of James), Reysheid Mata(Kristin) and Dylan J. Reitz-Lewis (sons of Tammy), Kaitlyn Delehanty(Trent), Collin Nafziger(Kerrigan), and Melissa Nafziger (children of Susan); great granddaughter, Charley Mata (daughter of Reysheid). In addition to her parents and husband, Nancy was preceded in death by her son Michael Reitz in 2023 and siblings, Babe, Dick, Butch, and Paul Everly.

Services for Nancy will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, August 7, 2024 at Church of God of Landisville, 171 Church St, Landisville, PA 17538. 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 Salunga Mennonite Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Church of God of Landisville.


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Robert F. Resch

He had a passion for gardening, tending to both vegetables and flowers, and enjoyed bird watching in his backyard.

Family and friends are invited to gather from 6-8 PM on Wednesday, July 31, 2024, at Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc. 519 Walnut St., Columbia.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday, August 1, 2024, at 11:00 AM at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 409 Cherry St., Columbia. The family will receive guests beginning at 10 AM.

Interment will immediately follow at Holy Trinity Cemetery.

 

Robert F. Resch, 76, of Columbia passed away peacefully on July 22, 2024, at Lancaster General Hospital. He was the husband of Jennifer A. (Dietz) Resch, with whom he celebrated 40 years of marriage in June.

Born in Columbia, he was the son of the late James M. Resch and Agnes A. (Wisler) Resch.

Bob graduated from Columbia High School in 1965, where he ran track and was part of the 880-yard relay team that broke the school record and competed at the Penn Relays. He was inducted into the Columbia High School Sports Hall of Fame in 2012.

After high school, Bob served in the United States Marine Corps from 1966 to 1972. He was employed as a steward at the Columbia Fraternal Association, retiring in 2021 after 37 years.

Bob loved spending time in the Outer Banks, especially on fishing trips with friends and family. He had a passion for gardening, tending to both vegetables and flowers, and enjoyed bird watching in his backyard. He also enjoyed taking rides in his Jeep and eating good food at local restaurants. He also enjoyed watching the Philadelphia Phillies, Eagles, 76ers and Flyers. Above all, he enjoyed spending time with his wife, children and grandchildren.

He was a member of the Columbia Fraternal Association, Foresters of America and the Wrightsville Social Club, where he enjoyed having breakfast with his son, Paul, on Sunday mornings.

He is survived by his wife, Jen, three sons, Robert A. Resch (Dori) of Lititz; Paul Resch (Michele) of Columbia; and Jason Dietz of Columbia, six grandchildren, and 11 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his niece, Tracy Witmer (Tom) of Lancaster, and nephew, Steven Resch (Tracey) of Lancaster.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother James J. Resch and a nephew James M. Resch.

Family and friends are invited to gather from 6-8 PM on Wednesday, July 31, 2024, at Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc. 519 Walnut St., Columbia. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday, August 1, 2024, at 11:00 AM at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 409 Cherry St., Columbia. The family will receive guests beginning at 10 AM. Interment will immediately follow at Holy Trinity Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the American Heart Association (www.heart.org), 7272 Greenville Ave., Dallas, TX 75231.


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Clair R. Kuhn

In his spare time, he enjoyed doing Wordsearches along with playing the lottery.

Funeral services will be held at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc., 519 Walnut St., Columbia, PA on Thursday, June 29, 2023, at 2:00 p.m.

Burial will follow at Holy Trinity Catholic Cemetery.

Family and friends may view on Thursday one hour prior to the service.

 

Clair R. Kuhn, 69 of Columbia, passed away on Sunday, June 25, 2023 at his residence. Born in Lancaster, PA, he was the son of the late James L., Sr. and Claire Carson Kuhn.

Clair was employed for many years at Armstrong World Industries and the former Columbia Bowling Center. He was a life member of the Susquehanna Fire and Rescue Company (CBFD) and the Catholic War Veterans Post 1306. In his spare time, he enjoyed doing Wordsearches along with playing the lottery.

He is survived by his brothers, James L., Sr. (Lynn); David E. (Tina); Joseph L. (Gwen); Douglas R. (Kathleen); Patrick M. (Holly); John C. (Sue); sisters, Jean C Rommel (Douglas); Judy A. Bookman (Kent); Susan M. Fritz (Keith); Aunt Charlene J. Evans; cousin Edwin Kline and many nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc., 519 Walnut St., Columbia, PA on Thursday, June 29, 2023, at 2:00 p.m. Burial will follow at Holy Trinity Catholic Cemetery. Family and friends may view on Thursday one hour prior to the service.

Kindly omit flowers. Memorial contributions may be made to the Columbia Boro Fire Department, PO Box 426, Columbia, PA 17512 or Hospice and Community Care by mail at Hospice & Community Care, Development Office, 685 Good Drive, Lancaster, PA 17601 or via their website at www.hospiceandcommunitycare.org.


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Alexis R. Henry

Her beautiful voice and spirit will be missed deeply by her surviving family members and friends

Public services for Alexis will be held on Friday, July 26th at Kraft Funeral Home in Columbia.  Visitation begins at 10 a.m. and the service will begin at 11 a.m. 

 

Alexis Rene’ Henry (ne'e Griffith) passed away this week due to complications associated with MS.  Alexis was a 1977 graduate of Columbia High School, after which she attended York College. 

Alexis raised three children in Columbia with her late husband, Wesley E. Bupp, and worked as a career geriatric care specialist for over 20 years.  She began as a Nurses’ Aid and moved into Resident Activities for the remainder of her career, which included employment at Heatherbank, St. John’s, Homestead Village, and Oak Leaf Manor. 

Alexis later moved to Masonic Village where she became a well-known resident.  She volunteered for Hospice services and enriched the community with her musical talent.  Alexis wrote poetry and music, and gave musical performances at Masonic.  Several of her songs are available on SoundCloud. 

Her beautiful voice and spirit will be missed deeply by her surviving family members and friends.  Alexis was preceded in death by her late husband, one sister, and both parents.  She is survived by her husband of 22 years, Jay N. Henry, two brothers and one sister, three children, and 10 grandchildren. 

Public services for Alexis will be held on Friday, July 26th at Kraft Funeral Home in Columbia.  Visitation begins at 10 a.m. and the service will begin at 11 a.m.  In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the National MS Society. 


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Frank L. Barton, Jr.

Frank's friendly demeanor and upstanding character were unmatched

Mass of Christian Burial: St. Peter's Catholic Church, 121 S. Second St., Columbia, PA 17512 on Wednesday, July 17, 2024 promptly at 11:00 a.m.

Friends may view at the church from 9:00 a.m. until 10:45 a.M.

Private family burial will follow the mass in St. Peter's Catholic Cemetery.

 

Frank L. Barton, Jr., 60, of Mountville, passed away on Wednesday, July 10, 2024. Born in Columbia, he was the son of Frank L. Sr. and Margaret Schinzing Barton.

Frank dedicated 35 years to the Hempfield School District teaching at the Landisville Middle School as a seventh-grade history teacher and at Hempfield High School as a history teacher. He also coached football for 40 years between Hempfield High School and Manheim Central High School. He loved his careers as a teacher and coach. He inspired and touched so many people's lives.

Frank's friendly demeanor and upstanding character were unmatched. Anyone who knew Frank knew he truly wanted and hoped for the best for anyone he met. He will be deeply missed by his family and the community.

In addition to his parents, he is survived by his two children, Kaela wife of Michael Mullen III and Andrew Barton; his soon to be granddaughter, Natalie and sister, Ann Barton Stoutzenberger and her partner Rob Schlenkrich.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held from St. Peter's Catholic Church, 121 S. Second St., Columbia, PA 17512 on Wednesday, July 17, 2024 promptly at 11:00 a.m. with the Rev. Augustine Joseph, Celebrant. Private family burial will follow the mass in St. Peter's Catholic Cemetery. Friends may view at the church from 9:00 a.m. until 10:45 a.m. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Frank's memory to the MC Football Booster Club, Coach B Scholarship Fund, PO Box 224, Manheim, PA 17545.


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Deborah Kay Herr

She was a foodie who enjoyed cooking and also camping and traveling, especially to Key West and Jamaica.

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

 

Deborah Kay Herr, 70, of Marietta passed away on July 17, 2024. She was born in Columbia to the late Robert and Jane Swingler and was a lifelong resident of this area. Known to everyone as Deb, she was a graduate of Donegal High School with the Class of 1971 and went on to graduate from the former St. Joseph’s School of X-Ray Technology.

Deb worked with Community Services Group for thirty-six years before her retirement. She was a foodie who enjoyed cooking and also camping and traveling, especially to Key West and Jamaica. Deb was a loving mother and grandmother who adored her family and treasured spending time with them.

Deb leaves behind her children, Jeremy Herr of Marietta, Emily, wife of James Dubendorf of Red Lion, Lori, wife of Keith Combs of Columbia; eight grandchildren, Jason, Andrew, Austin, Gabrielle, Roman, Scarlette, Mason, and Ryleigh; four great grandchildren; several cousins and a large extended family.

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


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Linda M. Andrews

  Linda enjoyed being outside, going to the beach, camping, flowers and doing her puzzle books. 

Linda’s Life Celebration will be held from the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc., 519 Walnut Street, Columbia, PA on Wednesday, July 10, 2024 at 11:00 a.m.

A viewing will be held from 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. 

Interment will follow in Riverview Burial Park.

 

Linda M. Andrews, 76, of Columbia, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, July 3, 2024.  Born in Columbia, PA, she was the daughter of the late Robert W. and Betty J. (Herman) Nissley.  Linda was the loving wife of Robert E. Andrews, with whom she celebrated 60 years of marriage this past December 14.

Linda drove a school bus for Hempfield High School for 38 years.  She also worked in the cafeteria at Landisville Middle School until she completely retired in 2013.  Linda enjoyed being outside, going to the beach, camping, flowers and doing her puzzle books.  She loved her black cat, Louie. She was devoted to her family.

Surviving in addition to her husband, is her son, Brian (Natalie) Andrews, of Lancaster; her daughter, Bobbie Jo (Robert) Stump, of Columbia; 3 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren; her brother, Robert W. (Carol) Nissley, Jr., of Mt. Pleasant Mills, PA; her sister, Judy (Richard) Burkman, of Columbia and a large extended family.  Linda was preceded in death by her sister, Sandy Arrowsmith. 

Linda’s Life Celebration will be held from the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc., 519 Walnut Street, Columbia, PA on Wednesday, July 10, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor John Baker, officiating.  A viewing will be held from 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.  Interment will follow in Riverview Burial Park.

In memory of Linda please consider making a blood donation to the Lancaster General Hospital Blood Donor Center.  Please call 717-544-0170 to schedule an appointment.


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