Dick felt his greatest accomplishments in life were his marriage to Bonnie, his children and his grandchildren.

The family will have a gathering on Saturday, November 30, from 9:30-11:30 AM for people to celebrate Dick and share memories. (Columbia VFW Post 2435, 401 Manor Street, Columbia, PA)

 

Richard (Dick) Deibert, 87, decided on 11/02/2024 that he was ready to pass the baton in this relay of life. His children Laurie (Richard) and Doug (Jeannie) along with his grandchildren Katelyn (Seth),

Alaina (Alain), Erik (Abby), Chad (Nikki), Olivia, Calliope, and Spencer have accepted the challenge to continue making this world a better place by carrying on his grand legacy with love.

Dick felt his greatest accomplishments in life were his marriage to Bonnie, his children and his grandchildren. Thousands of lives were touched through Dick’s involvement as an educator and coach at Hempfield School District, Manager of Landisville Pool, Hunter Educator, and CPR instructor.

In addition, he continued to touch lives by volunteering countless hours for organizations dear to his heart such as: Izaak Walton League (youth pheasant hunt, disabled veteran fishing outings), PA Fish Commission(stocking fish), PA Game Commission (teaching Hunter Ed for 50 years, stocking pheasants, and Youth Field Day’s). Dick also participated in the American Chestnut tree Restoration Program.

His family and dogs will remember him as their super hero, role model, playmate, adventure buddy, story teller, and Beloved Father and Papes/Poppy. Many of his friends have shared sentiments and words such as: honest, kind, generous, welcoming, loving mentor, tough but gentle giant, larger than life, strong, capable, best friend, present, funny, father and grandfather figure, involved, outdoorsman, nature lover, best boss, legend, helpful, guide, ornery, and full of laughter.

In Dick’s youth he was an accomplished athlete in many sports. Dick was a coach and team mate in wrestling, track, football, basketball, and swimming. He was inducted into both the Bedford County Sports Hall of Fame and the Lock Haven University Hall of Fame.

In Dick’s memory consider taking a walk in the woods, hunt or fish with a youth, smile at strangers, lend a hand up to anyone that might need it, or volunteer your time for one hour (or thousands).

The family will have a gathering on Saturday, November 30, from 9:30-11:30 AM for people to celebrate Dick and share memories. (Columbia VFW Post 2435, 401 Manor Street, Columbia, PA)

In addition, A grand celebration of life per Dick’s wishes ( fishing and venison etc.) will be planned for warmer weather. If interested in attending, please add your contact info on the memorial page or reach out to the family. All that want to celebrate Dick’s excellent example of a life well lived are welcome.

Please share stories and photos of Dick on the memorial website so that we can print a book for his family to cherish.

https://www.forevermissed.com/richard-carl-deibert/about

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Andrew enjoyed riding his Harley and rooting for the Eagles and his beloved North Carolina Tarheels.

Celebration of Life: Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc. 519 Walnut St. Columbia PA 17512 on Tuesday, November 12, 2024 at 11:00 a.m.

Family and friends may view at the funeral home on Monday evening from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. and again on Tuesday morning prior to the service.

 

Andrew S. Ward, 39 of Elizabethtown, passed away on November 3, 2024. He was the husband of Trina Piaskowski Ward who were married 2/3/23. Born in Lancaster, he was the son of Sue and Jim Buckius and Scott and Denine Ward.

Andrew graduated from Donegal High School, Class of 2003 and enlisted in the U.S Army. For the past four years he was employed as a supervisor at the Lancaster County Solid Waste Management Authority. His prior employment included 12 years of service for the United Parcel Service as a feeder driver.

He was a member of the Elizabethtown Moose Lodge 596 and the Dela-Chess Fishing Association. Andrew enjoyed riding his Harley and rooting for the Eagles and his beloved North Carolina Tarheels. A family first person, he loved spending time with his children.

In addition to his wife and parents are his beloved children, Rylieann, Olivia and Caleb Ward; brother, Chadd Ward (Ali); half-brother Corey Ward; nephews, Cayson, Colton and Brody Ward and Austin and Greyson Piaskowski; paternal grandmother, Joanne Fritz (late Dewey); maternal grandmother, Meena Eichelberger; step maternal grandmother, Joyce Buckius and brother and sister in laws John Piaskowski (Lynne), Jim Piaskowski and Jerry (Cassandra) Piaskowski. Numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins also survive.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc. 519 Walnut St. Columbia PA 17512 on Tuesday, November 12, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. with the Rev. Laura Baker, officiating. Family and friends may view at the funeral home on Monday evening from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. and again on Tuesday morning prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, please send any contributions for the children to the attention of Karri Curley of Northwest Bank, 1275 S Market Street, Elizabethtown, PA  17022.  In the memo line please include the wording “Ward Children.”

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She enjoyed visiting Lewes, DE and was an avid counted cross stitcher.

graveside celebration of Arlene’s life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, November 8, 2024 at Rohrerstown Lutheran and Reformed Cemetery,2371 Wood St, Rohrerstown, PA, 17603.

 

Arlene F. “Hon”Fawber, 92, of Landisville passed away peacefully on November 3, 2024. She was born in Manor Township to the late Charles and Anna Hess Frey and was a lifelong resident of this area.

Arlene was a graduate of East Lampeter High School with the Class of 1950 and worked with JC Penny for eighteen years. She enjoyed visiting Lewes, DE and was an avid counted cross stitcher. Arlene was a sweet and kind soul who will be missed for her whoopie pies and potato salad among many other things. She was a loving mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, and aunt who adored her family and treasured spending time with them.

Arlene leaves behind three children, Jeff, husband of Valerie Fawber of Lancaster, Judy, wife of Ted Gingrich of Lancaster, Janice Jolly, wife of Gregory Maxey of Brasstown, NC; six grandchildren, Elise Perlaki, Samantha Lansberry, Joseph W. Jolly, IV, Nicole Jolly Hilley, Scott Gingrich, Robert Gingrich; ten great grandchildren; a sister, Jean, wife of Harold Krumrine of Hanover; numerous nieces and nephews and a large extended family. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband Robert Fawber in 2014 and six siblings.

A graveside celebration of Arlene’s life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, November 8, 2024 at Rohrerstown Lutheran and Reformed Cemetery,2371 Wood St, Rohrerstown, PA, 17603. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Compassus Hospice, 2101 Oregon Pike #301, Lancaster, PA 17601.

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Velma was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, and aunt who adored her family and treasured spending time with them.

Mass of Christian Burial: 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, November 5, 2024 at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 409 Cherry St, Columbia, PA 17512.

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

Burial will follow, and she will be laid to rest beside her late husband, at Holy Trinity Catholic Cemetery.

 

Velma E. Smith, 100, of Columbia passed away peacefully on October 30, 2024. She was born in Columbia to the late George and Pauline Abel Grab and was a lifelong resident of this area.

Velma was a graduate of Columbia High School with the Class of 1941 and went on to graduate from the former St. Joseph’s Hospital School of Nursing in 1944. She was a registered nurse with the former Columbia Hospital for thirty years before her retirement in 1995. Velma was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, and aunt who adored her family and treasured spending time with them. She was a lifelong and devoted parishioner of Holy Trinity Catholic Church where she was a member of the Altar Rose Society.

Velma leaves behind her four children, Lt. Col. Ann Louise Smith USAF (ret.) of Ft. Worth, TX, Elizabeth V., wife of Jeffrey B. Becker of Hellam, Kathleen M. Smith of Tucker, GA, Eugene F. Smith, Jr. of Columbia; three grandchildren, Amy Abel, wife of Bill Seneft of York, Lisa, wife of Dr. Christopher Gilbert of Mount Pleasant, SC, Jean, wife of Shawn Leiphart of Hellam; five great grandchildren, Madeline Abel, Lauren Abel, Colton Leiphart, Ella Gilbert, Nathan Gilbert; two sisters, Janet Gainer, Alice Marie Sensenig; numerous nieces and nephews and a large extended family. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband Eugene F. Smith, Sr. in 1980 and six siblings, Thomas, Raymond, Robert, and Samuel Grab, Anna “Sue” Welsh, and Pauline Giandalia.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, November 5, 2024 at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 409 Cherry St, Columbia, PA 17512. Fr. Michael Grab, Velma’s nephew, will officiate. 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 beside her late husband, at Holy Trinity Catholic Cemetery. Velma’s family would like to thank the staff of St. Anne’s Retirement Community for the loving care they gave to Velma. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Holy Trinity Catholic Church or Our Lady of the Angels Catholic School. Arrangements by the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc. Columbia/Landisville www.clydekraft.com

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Jeff will truly be missed by many.

A Celebration of Jeff’s life will be held on Saturday, November 9, 2024 beginning at 11:00 a.m. at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc., 519 Walnut Street, Columbia, PA  17512.

Family will receive friends beginning at 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service.

 

Jeffrey A. Hinkle, 59, of New Providence, has gone to meet his Lord and Savior on October 24, 2024.

Jeff was born in Columbia, PA on October 28, 1964 to Martha Yvonne Koehler Hinkle and the late, Ralph W. Hinkle who proceeded him in death on May 23, 1997.  He leaves behind his daughter, Jaclyn M. Hinkle and her fiancé, Ernest Harper and her son, Carter T. Hinkle all of Mount Joy, PA and a son, William M. Hinkle and his fiancée, Briana Keyes and their son, Lyncoln Hinkle all of Lampeter Strasburg, PA.

In addition, Jeff also leaves behind his siblings, Deborah K. Hinkle Nikolaus wife of Michael, Columbia; Ralph “Rick” W. Hinkle husband of Deana Hoffmaster Hinkle, Columbia; Diane L. Hinkle Mastromatteo wife of Edward, Columbia; Dawn M. Hinkle Hanna wife of Jay, Strasburg; Scott B. Hinkle husband of Lisa Gebhard Hinkle, Neffsville; and his many nieces and nephews.

Additionally, Jeff leaves behind his companion of four years, Susan Newcomer and his side kick, Opie, his beloved dog, New Providence.

Jeff was a graduate of J.P. McCaskey High School and worked for Protech Mechanical, Landisville until retiring in April 2017. He enjoyed spending time with his friends, relaxing in his cabin in Potter County and riding his Harley. He will truly be missed by many. 

A Celebration of Jeff’s life will be held on Saturday, November 9, 2024 beginning at 11:00 a.m. at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc., 519 Walnut Street, Columbia, PA  17512 with Rev. Geoff Abendschoen, officiating.  Family will receive friends beginning at 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Jeff’s memory to the American Heart Association at www.heart.org.

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

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Jane was an amateur watercolor artist and enjoyed playing bridge, doing crossword and other puzzles, and loved to read.

private service will be held at the convenience of the faMILY.

 

Jane M. Leary, 96, of Columbia passed away on October 11, 2024. She was born in Wabank to the late Raymond and Kathryn Keller.

Jane was a graduate of the former Penn Manor High School with the Class of 1946. She worked with various organizations in Lancaster, Philadelphia, San Juan, PR, and New York City before retiring as a secretary with Yellow Freight Systems in 1994. Jane was an amateur watercolor artist and enjoyed playing bridge, doing crossword and other puzzles, and loved to read. She was a member of Salem United Church of Christ in Rohrerstown.

Jane leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews and a large extended family. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by two husbands, George Ryan in 1977 and Timothy Leary in 1993; seven siblings, John Elmer Keller, Emma Holton, Kathryn Werner, Ruth Breneman, Jeanette Keller, Dorothy Koerkle, and Marie Baumgardner.

A private service will be held at the convenience of the family and Jane will be laid to rest with her late husband, Timothy, at Conestoga Memorial Park.

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He enjoyed riding his motorcycle and hunting with his late father and was an avid Philadelphia Eagles and Phillies fan.

Services for Mike:11:00 a.m. on Friday, October 11, 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.

burial will follow at Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens.

 

Jason “Mike” Zink, 41, of Columbia passed away unexpectedly on October 6, 2024. He was born in Columbia to Gina Jackson and the late Samuel Zink, Sr. and was a lifelong resident of this area.

Mike attended Columbia High School and most recently worked with R.E. Pierson Materials as a heavy equipment operator. He enjoyed riding his motorcycle and hunting with his late father and was an avid Philadelphia Eagles and Phillies fan. Mike was a devoted husband, father, son, brother, and uncle who adored his family and treasured spending time with them.

Mike leaves behind his wife of ten years Amanda Zink of Columbia; two children, Keegin and Saige Zink of Columbia; his mother Gina Jackson; seven siblings, Jody, Annie, Sam, Jr., Jeanie, DJ, Crystal, and Richard; numerous nieces and nephews, friends, and a large extended family. He was preceded in death by his father Samuel Zink, Sr. in 2023.

Services for Mike will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, October 11, 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. Rev. David Powers will officiate and burial will follow at Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens.

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She loved riding her motorcycle and enjoyed using her green thumb for gardening and raising her plants.

Services: 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, October, 12, 2024 at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, 519 Walnut St, Columbia, PA 17512.

The family will receive friends for visitation beginning at 11:00 a.m. until service time.

 

Betty L. Preston, 67, of Columbia passed away, surrounded by her family, on October 3, 2024. She was born in Hampton, CT to the late Romeo and Rita Maheu.

Betty was a graduate of Battle Creek High School and proudly served in the United States Army. Following her service, Betty moved to Columbia with her husband, Bill. She loved riding her motorcycle and enjoyed using her green thumb for gardening and raising her plants. Betty adored her family and treasured spending time with them.

Betty leaves behind her husband of forty years, Bill Preston; a son, Kristoffer Nees; seven siblings, Ramona Dagenais, Waneta Auger, Marlene Maheu, Michael Maheu, Patricia Waldron, Stephen Maheu, half-sister: Ann Freeman; numerous nieces and nephews and a large extended family. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by three brothers, Romeo, Jr., Armand, and Wayne Maheu.

Services for Betty will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, October, 12, 2024 at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, 519 Walnut St, Columbia, PA 17512. The family will receive friends for visitation beginning at 11:00 a.m. until service time. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Ann B. Barshinger Cancer Institute, 2102 Harrisburg Pike, Lancaster, PA 17601.

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Jack enjoyed playing golf and loved attending his kids’ and grandchildren’s sporting events.

celebration of Jack’s life will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, October 5, 2024 at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, 519 Walnut St, Columbia, PA 17512.

The family will receive friends for visitation beginning at 9:30 a.m. until service time.

 

Jack M. Horner, 82, of Columbia passed away peacefully on September 30, 2024. He was born in Columbia to the late Robert and Frances Martin Horner and was a lifelong resident of Columbia.

Jack was a graduate of Columbia High School. He worked in sales for his whole life and also operated Jack Horner Shoes in Columbia and Jack’s Locker Room. Jack was also the manager of the shoe department at Boscov’s until his retirement. He was a P.I.A.A. basketball official and swim official who was an inductee into the Susquehanna Valley Chapter of the Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame as well as the Columbia High School Sports Hall of Fame. A pillar of the community, Jack was past president of the Columbia Area Jaycees, C.B.A.A., and the Columbia Merchants Association. He also served as a past Fire Chief with the former Columbia #1 Fire Company and was a lifetime member of the Columbia-Middletown Elks Lodge #1074. Jack enjoyed playing golf and loved attending his kids’ and grandchildren’s sporting events. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and uncle who adored his family and treasured spending time with them.

Jack leaves behind his wife of forty-six years, Deborah Cramer Horner of Columbia, formerly of Lewistown; four children, Rev. Dr. Jack M. Horner, Jr., husband of Linda of Mechanicsburg, Craig, husband of Amy Horner of Mountville, Kelly, wife of James Hitch of Clarksville, TN, Lisa Carr of Wrightsville; eight grandchildren and one great-grandchild; two sisters, Barbara LeFevre of York and Karen Larsen of Ft. Lauderdale, FL; numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents.

A celebration of Jack’s life will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, October 5, 2024 at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, 519 Walnut St, Columbia, PA 17512. The family will receive friends for visitation beginning at 9:30 a.m. until service time. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Columbia Boys Athletic Association (C.B.A.A.), P.O. Box 372, Columbia, PA 17512. Arrangements by the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc. Columbia/Landisville www.clydekraft.com

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Family and church meant everything to Betty.

Mass of Christian Burial: St. Peter’s Catholic Church, 121 S. Second St. Columbia, Pa. 17512 on Friday, October 4, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. There will be no public viewing, however the family will receive friends one hour

Burial will follow in St. Peter’s Catholic Cemetery.

 

Elizabeth K. (Betty) Buzzendore, 96 of Columbia, passed away on Tuesday, September 24, 2024 at Paramount Senior Living where she had resided for the past two months. She was the wife of the late George N. Buzzendore with whom she was married for 68 years until his death in 2017. A lifelong Columbia resident, she was the daughter of the late Clarence and Elizabeth Zercher Knighton.

Family and church meant everything to Betty. She was a devoted and faithful member of St. Peter’s Catholic Church, Columbia, Pa. and participated in many church activities.

Betty is survived by her daughters, Marion Lutter (Lawrence); Teresa Smith (Daniel); Betty Noll; Ann Lively (Jaime Martinez); Mary Beth Nell (Larry); 15 grandchildren; 20 great grandchildren; brothers, Samuel and Harry Knighton. She was preceded in death by her great grandson, Aj Smith and her siblings, John, James, Lee, Clarence, Rose Cooke, Mary Knighton and Margaret Kinard.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held from St. Peter’s Catholic Church, 121 S. Second St. Columbia, Pa. 17512 on Friday, October 4, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. with the Rev. Michael Grab, Celebrant. Burial will follow in St. Peter’s Catholic Cemetery. There will be no public viewing, however the family will receive friends one hour prior to the mass. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Peter’s Catholic Church.

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She enjoyed playing Bingo, going to the Casinos and traveling.

memorial service will be held at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc. 519 Walnut St., Columbia, PA 17512 on Saturday, NOVEMBER 2, 2024 at 11:00 a.m.

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

 

Tommie Carolyn Vera, 73 of Columbia, passed away on Tuesday, September 24, 2024 at her residence. She was the wife of Frank A. Vera with whom she was married 58 years. Born in Wilmington, NC, she was the daughter of the late Tommy Smith and Thelma (Biggs) Norris.

Better known to her family and friends as Carol, she retired from the Acme Distribution Center after 30 years of service. After her retirement, she worked on a casino boat in Myrtle Beach and later opened her own nail salon.

Carol was devoted to her family, especially to her granddaughter, Saylor and loved the company of and laughing with her many friends. She enjoyed playing Bingo, going to the Casinos and traveling.

In addition to her husband, she is survived by her sons Frank A. Vera, Jr. (partner Todd Cooke) Thomas C. Vera; granddaughter Saylor Vera and siblings, Trisha Collins (Clint); Charlie Ward; Allen Ward and Sammy Ward. She was preceded in death by Baby Boy Vera and siblings, Delores King, Susie Ward and Bobby Ward.

A memorial service will be held at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc. 519 Walnut St., Columbia, PA 17512 on Saturday, NOVEMBER 2, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. with Deacon Jeffrey Baylor, officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.

If desired, memorial contributions may be made to the Columbia Food Bank, 340 Locust St., Columbia, PA 17512 or at www.columbiafoodbank.com

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She was an avid reader who also enjoyed Sudoku, crossword puzzles, and board games with her grandchildren.

Mass of Christian Burial: 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 28, 2024 at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Columbia, PA 17512.

The family will receive friends for visitation beginning at 9:00 a.m. until service time.

Burial will follow, and she will be laid to rest with her late husband, at Holy Trinity Catholic Cemetery.

 

Adelma Claire Weisser, 89, formerly of Columbia, passed away on September 21, 2024. She was born in Columbia to the late John and Lucretia Hauser Schinzing and was a lifelong resident of this area.

Adelma was a graduate of Lancaster Catholic High School with the Class of 1953 and worked as a secretary until staying home to raise her family. She was an avid reader who also enjoyed Sudoku, crossword puzzles, and board games with her grandchildren. Adelma was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and aunt who adored her family and treasured spending time with them. She was a lifelong parishioner of Holy Trinity Catholic Church.

Adelma leaves behind her children, Teresa Weisser of Millersville with whom she resided, Regina, wife of Robert Hefele of Southhampton, Paul, III, husband of Katherine Weisser of Red Lion; five grandchildren, Paul (Elizabeth), Auggie, and John Weisser, Jeremy and Brandon Hefele; four siblings, Rose Kurjiaka of Mount Joy, Margaret, wife of Frank Barton of Columbia, John, husband of Patricia Schinzing of Landisville, Lucretia, wife of Gerald Nikolaus of Columbia. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband Paul Weisser, Jr. in 1996 and her sister, Mary Lou Schinzing.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 28, 2024 at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 409 Cherry St, Columbia, PA 17512. The family will receive friends for visitation beginning at 9:00 a.m. until service time. Burial will follow, and she will be laid to rest with her late husband, at Holy Trinity Catholic Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Our Lady of the Angels School, 404 Cherry St, Columbia, PA 17512

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She enjoyed her cats, staying up-to-date on current affairs, and playing video games on her phone, especially Yahtzee.

There will be no formal services for Donna and any future services will be announced by her family.

 

Donna Marie Ruf, 79, of Lebanon has been reunited with the love of her life, Bill Ruf, on September 18, 2024. She was born in Lancaster to the late Mary and John Walstrum and was a lifelong resident of this area.

Donna attended McCaskey High School and worked with the Lancaster Country Club until her eventual retirement. She enjoyed her cats, staying up-to-date on current affairs, and playing video games on her phone, especially Yahtzee. Donna loved her family, but most of all, she adored her grandchildren and treasured spending time with them by taking them shopping and for ice cream.

Donna leaves behind five sons, Bill, husband of Wendy Ruf of Lancaster, Tim Ruf of Lebanon, Brian Ruf of York, Randy Ruf, husband of Jacki Minnich of Columbia, Matt Ruf of Lebanon; twelve grandchildren and sixteen great grandchildren; five sisters, Julie Blair, Barbara Weidman, Betsy Beck, Ruth Brugger, and Chris Kreider; numerous nieces and nephews and a large extended family. In addition to her parents and husband, Donna was preceded in death by her son, Keith Ruf; three siblings, John Walstrum, Mary Witmer, and Liz Kepley; two grandchildren, Eric and Brandy Minnich.

There will be no formal services for Donna and any future services will be announced by her family. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Columbia Animal Shelter, 265 S. 10th St, Columbia, PA 17512 or www.columbiaanimalshelter.com

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His professional dedication was matched by his personal passions; he was an avid antique collector, talented wood refinisher and took great joy in hot rods.

In accordance with his wishes, Dean requested that there be no services.

 

Dean Getz, age 80, of Wrightsville, PA, passed away in his sleep on September 11, 2024. Born on March 4, 1944 in Columbia, PA, Dean graduated from Hempfield High School and later built a successful career at Yellow Freight Systems, where he retired as a Terminal Operations Manager. His professional dedication was matched by his personal passions; he was an avid antique collector, talented wood refinisher and took great joy in hot rods.

Dean is survived by his wife, Stephanie Getz, of Wrightsville, PA; his daughter, Deanna Forbes (wife of David Forbes) of East Petersburg, PA; his granddaughter, Megan Sparks (wife of Dustin Sparks) of Colorado Springs, CO; his great-granddaughter, Haley Sparks of Colorado Springs, CO; his sister, Margie Denlinger of Columbia, PA; his sister, Phyllis Ginder (wife of Jay Ginder) of Kannapolis, NC; and his sister-in-law, Sandy Cornelius of Mountville, PA. He also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews.

In accordance with his wishes, Dean requested that there be no services. The family honors his decision and asks that friends hold their fond memories of Dean close to their hearts.

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She enjoyed Arthur Murray competitive ballroom dancing which took her all around the country for competitions.

graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, September 23, 2024 at Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens, 845 Laurel Hill Rd, Columbia, PA 17512.

 

Anna Ruth Gable, 100, of Millersville passed away on September 16, 2024. She was born in Mount Joy Township to the late Norman and Leah Tyson and was a lifelong resident of Lancaster County.

Anna was a graduate of Columbia High School with the Class of 1943. She worked with the former RCA/Burle Industries for fifty years until her retirement. Anna was a member of the Order of the Eastern Star. She enjoyed Arthur Murray competitive ballroom dancing which took her all around the country for competitions. Anna was of the Christian faith.

Anna leaves behind her daughter-in-law, Sara Ann Gable of Lititz and numerous nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband Richard Gable, Sr. in 2010; her son, Richard, Jr. in 2004; four siblings, Norman, John, Russell, and Leona.

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, September 23, 2024 at Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens, 845 Laurel Hill Rd, Columbia, PA 17512. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Hospice and Community Care, 685 Good Dr, Lancaster, PA 17601 or St. Anne’s Retirement Community, 3952 Columbia Ave, Columbia, PA 17512.

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Cathy loved tending to her flowers and yard, spending time by her pool, and enjoyed a great sale at the Bon-Ton.

A Funeral Mass will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 21, 2024, at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 409 Cherry St, Columbia, PA 17512. The family will receive friends for visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. until service time.

 

Cathy L. Hess, 77, of Wrightsville passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family, on September 16, 2024. She was born in Tokyo, Japan to the late Maj. Robert H. Lehman (Ret) and Dolores Mendenhall Lehman and was a lifelong resident of this area.

Cathy was a 1965 graduate of Lancaster Catholic High School. She was a secretary at the former ITT Grinnell before choosing to be at home to raise her family. Cathy was a devoted daughter, wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, and sister who adored her family and treasured spending time with them. Cathy loved tending to her flowers and yard, spending time by her pool, and enjoyed a great sale at the Bon-Ton. She was a parishioner of Holy Trinity Catholic Church.

Cathy was the beloved wife to her dedicated husband of fifty-three years, John W. Hess, Jr. of Wrightsville. John was Cathy's devoted caretaker throughout her illness filling her days with love, considerate care, and many laughs and kisses. Cathy leaves behind her daughter, Dr. Julie Frey, wife of Gary of Wrightsville; her granddaughter, Taylor Baublitz, Esq., wife of Joseph Baublitz, Jr., Esq. of York; her great grandson, Joseph Baublitz III of York, and another great grandson on the way; three siblings, Jean Good of Wyomissing, John Lehman, husband of Kate of Maytown, Robert H. Lehman, Jr., husband of Mary Jane of Lancaster; many nieces and nephews, friends, and family. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister Sylvia Kitch of Columbia. 

 A Funeral Mass will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 21, 2024, at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 409 Cherry St, Columbia, PA 17512. The family will receive friends for visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. until service time. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Holy Trinity Catholic Church.

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103 Years of Faith & Unconditional Love.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday, September 19, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. from Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 409 Cherry Street, Columbia, PA 17512. 

A viewing will be held from 9:30 a.m. until 10:45 a.m. with Mass beginning promptly at 11:00 a.m. 

Final commendation and farewell will be in Holy Trinity Catholic Cemetery. services.

 

Geraldine M. Shutt – 103 Years of Faith & Unconditional Love. 

On September 15, 2024, 5 days from her 104th birthday, Geraldine Maricia Wickenheiser Shutt went to meet her Lord and Savior. Her Jesus whom she loved so dearly. Geraldine (Gerl, Gerry) was a loving, sweet spirited sister, wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother. Full of joy and love to everyone she was around.

She was born September 20, 1920 to Frank and Mary Wickenheiser.  She was second to youngest of 18 children and is the last of them all. As the daughter of a wallpaper hanger and homemaker, her upbringing, while humble, was not short on faith, family and love. She attended Holy Trinity Church and School. She volunteered making fasnacht’s in her younger years and had the privilege of meeting Willard Scott when he visited Holy Trinity. She was an active member of the school’s Mother’s Club and a member of the Altar Rosary Society. Along with her mother and eight sisters, the women were active members of the Loyal Order of the Moose. Geraldine was the Childcare Training Chair for many years with a purpose to raise money to help support orphaned children of Moose members.

June 26, 1942, she married William W. Shutt (Shutty) and set up housekeeping in Washington Boro. Two years later their son, William C. Shutt was born to them. Thirteen years later, their daughter, Ruth Ann Shutt Hinerdeer was born, Ruth Anne is married to Bryan Hinerdeer.  Shutty passed away August of 1984.

Geraldine was blessed with 5 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren.

Geraldine worked for Becker’s and spent over 10 years preparing lunches and cleaning rooms at the Wickensheiser Hotel (owned by her brother, Henry) in Landisville. She enjoyed canning, cooking, baking and loved sharing her foods with family and friends.

Many times, over the years, she opened her home for Sunday dinners for family and friends, and a bed to sleep in when needed.

Her favorite songs were Old Rugged Cross, You Are My Sunshine and Jesus Loves Me. Her advice to others was ‘don’t worry, be happy’, ‘treat yourself’ and ‘tell others what God has done in your life.’ As she ended each day, she reminded herself that “Jesus is with me, and Jesus loves me.” She carried Him close in her thoughts knowing that he is truly there and holding her in His loving arms. What a life example for all of us.

The woman of valor described in Proverbs 31:10-31 comes to mind when reflecting on Geraldine’s remarkable life. She is faithful and loves Jesus with all of her heart. She is a faithful bride. She is a loving mother and her children call her blessed. She takes care of her physical, mental, and spiritual health. She serves others with love and kindness. She is a wise steward of the gifts God has given her. She is a good manager of her home. She spends her time on that which is good. She is creative and embraces beauty and godliness.

She left a beautiful legend and will be truly missed.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday, September 19, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. from Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 409 Cherry Street, Columbia, PA 17512 with Rev. Fr. Daniel Mitzel, celebrant.  A viewing will be held from 9:30 a.m. until 10:45 a.m. with Mass beginning promptly at 11:00 a.m.  Final commendation and farewell will be in Holy Trinity Catholic Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Hospice and Community Care, 685 Good Drive, Lancaster, PA  17601 or www.hospiceandcommunitycare.org.

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

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Michael was a loving son, brother, uncle, and friend who adored his family and treasured spending time with them.

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

 

Michael S. DeLucia, 57, of Manheim passed away on September 11, 2024. He was born in Columbia and was the son of Vickey and Edgar Aikens.

Michael was a lifelong resident of this area and attended Donegal High School. He had been employed for the last nineteen years with Lindenmeyr Munroe as a transportation logistic support manager. Michael was a loving son, brother, uncle, and friend who adored his family and treasured spending time with them.

Michael leaves behind his parents, Vickey L. Aikens of Manheim, Edgar Aikens of Cleona; his sister, Lori DeLucia of Manheim; his aunt, Catherine Whiteman of Minersville; his honorary nieces and nephews, Kadyn, Breanna, Aubree, Khalil, and DeAndre; many friends. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Michael DeLucia, Jr. and Agnes Shank; his aunt and uncle Linda Smeltzer and Frank DeLucia.

In honor of Michael’s final wishes there will be no formal services. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the American Heart Association, 4250 Crums Mill Rd, Harrisburg, PA 17112.

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She enjoyed trips to her family vacation home in Rehoboth Beach and loved her fur baby, Molly.

Funeral services: Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc. 519 Walnut St. Columbia PA on Wednesday, September 18, 2024 at 11:00 a.m.

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

Burial will follow in Ironville Cemetery.

 

Sarah A. “Sally” Reese, 72 of Columbia, passed away on Wednesday, September, 11, 2024 at the Lancaster General Hospital. She was the wife of the late Harry Reese III with whom she was married 36 years until his death in 2006. Born in Columbia, she was the daughter of the late August J. and Anna Denison Weis.

Sally graduated from Columbia High School in 1970 and was a longtime employee of the Columbia Boro School District where she worked in the food services department. A member of Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Columbia, she enjoyed trips to her family vacation home in Rehoboth Beach and loved her fur baby, Molly.

Sally is survived by her son, Joseph Reese (Tonya); granddaughter, Tonya and her children Evelyn, Emma and Alexandra; grandson, Hunter Rice and his children, Addilyn and Ayden; brother, George Weis (Terri) and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her son Harry Reese IV, brother August J. “Gus” Weis (Jolene) and her sister Mary Lou Brecht.

Funeral services will be held at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc. 519 Walnut St. Columbia PA on Wednesday, September 18, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. with Deacon Henry Reese, officiating. Burial will follow in Ironville Cemetery. Family and friends may view one hour prior to the service. If desired, memorial contributions may be made to Hospice and Community Care.

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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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