Posts in obituaries
Huey Embry

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

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

 

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

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

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

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


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John Nelson Haupt, Sr.

He was an avid outdoorsman who loved camping and hunting.

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

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

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

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

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


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Florence M. Shank

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

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

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

Burial will follow in Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens.

 

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

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

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

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

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


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Sue A. Teats

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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


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Julia A. Depew

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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



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Wendy L. Reitzel

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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



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Jolene M. Smeltzer

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

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

 

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

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

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

Private services for Jolene were held on Wednesday, February 19, 2025 and she was laid to rest with her late husband at Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Columbia Animal Shelter, 265 S. 10th St, Columbia, PA 17512 or www.columbiaanimalshelter.com.


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Dorothy S. "Dottie" Ney

She loved animals and working in her flower garden.

Services will be private at the convenience of the family.

 

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

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

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

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

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

great-grandchildren.

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


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John C. Rutter, III.

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

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

 

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

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

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

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


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William "Bill" E. Lewis

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

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

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

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

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

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


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Edwin R. Brown

Edwin was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting, fishing, and walking the mountains of McConnellsburg and Needmore in Fulton County, where he and his wife eventually both retired.

CELEBRATION OF LIFE:

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

 

Edwin R. Brown, 82, of Lancaster and formerly of Needmore (Fulton County), passed away peacefully at home, on January 16, 2025. He was born in Columbia to the late Melvin Charles Sr. and Alice Brown.

Edwin attended Lancaster Catholic High School and proudly served in the United States Navy on the USS Forrestal. Following his service, he worked at Herr & Sacco for thirty-four years until his retirement. Edwin was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting, fishing, and walking the mountains of McConnellsburg and Needmore in Fulton County, where he and his wife eventually both retired. He was a loving son, husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother, and uncle who always put his family first and treasured every moment he had with them. Edwin was a member of Newtown United Methodist Church in Columbia.

 

Edwin leaves behind his loving wife of almost fifty-three years Mary Brown of Lancaster; two beloved daughters, Lori, wife of Eric Findley of Quarryville, Jennifer Brown of Lancaster; four grandchildren, Haydn Wolpert (& Bri Weaver), Austin Findley (& wife, Hannah), Liam Findley, and Patric Cusack; two great grandchildren, Rosalee Wolpert and Brycen Findley; five siblings, John, Sr., husband of Margaret Brown of McConnellsburg, Lougene, wife of Donald Stevens of Columbia, Barbara, wife of the late Robert Kuhns of Columbia, Sharon Strausbaugh of Silver Spring, Alyce Brown of Columbia; numerous nieces and nephews and a large extended family. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by four siblings, Melvin C. Brown, Jr., Beatrice Siltzer, Robert L. Brown, Sr., and Donald A. Brown, respectively.

Edwin was a kind, patient, moral and humble man, who instilled those same qualities into both of his daughters and grandchildren. His boundless and enduring spirit will continue to live on in them. He will truly be missed by all who knew him and will never be forgotten.

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


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Carole J. Droege

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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Christine A. Poindexter

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

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

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


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Jean L. Carlson

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

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

 

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

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

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

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



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Donald E. "JR" Feltch, Jr.

Donald E. “JR” Feltch, Jr., 64, of Windsor passed away on February 2, 2025. He was born in Columbia to Rose Wolf and the late Donald E. Feltch, Sr. He was a lifelong resident of the area.

JR graduated from Hempfield High School with the Class of 1980 and had extensive certifications that allowed him to excel in his career working with Reading Truck Body of Bowmansville – a career that he loved. JR enjoyed riding his Harley, hunting, cheering on the Eagles football team, and the companionship of his dogs. He was a loving son, brother, cousin, and uncle who adored his family and treasured spending time with them. JR was a lifetime member of the North American Hunting Club and Tiny Hills “Not Half Bad 8 Ball Club”.

JR leaves behind his mother, Rose Wolf of Columbia; five siblings, Wayne Feltch of Denver, Dennis J., husband of Tonya Feltch of Columbia, Sandra, wife of Tim Fisher of Wrightsville, Christine Feltch of Lancaster, William Feltch of York; His canine companion, Guardian; numerous nieces and nephews and a large extended family. In addition to his father, he was preceded in death by his cousins Harry Jr, Michael Sauder; uncles, Eddie, Harry “Tiny” Sr., Paris “Mutt” Sauder; his canine companion Jeabear.

Services for JR will be 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, February 12, 2025 at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, 519 Walnut St, Columbia, PA 17512. The family will receive friends for visitation at 10:00 a.m. until service time. Burial will follow at Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens. Celebration of Life will be at 1:00 p.m., contact family for more information. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Columbia Animal Shelter, 265 S. 10th St, Columbia, PA 17512, columbiaanimalshelter.com.

JR enjoyed riding his Harley, hunting, cheering on the Eagles football team, and the companionship of his dogs.

Services: 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, February 12, 2025 at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, 519 Walnut St, Columbia, PA 17512.

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

Burial will follow at Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens.


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George E. Baxter

We honor his memory and thank him for his many years of service to our country.

A visitation with the family will be held on Monday, February 10, 2025 from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. from the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc., 519 Walnut Street, Columbia, PA. 

A graveside memorial service with full military honors from Red Rose Veterans Honor Guard and Vet 21 Gun Salute will follow at 11:00 a.m. from Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens.

 

George E. Baxter, November 21, 1942-January 31, 2025

From the halls of Montezuma

to the shores of Tripoli

We fight our country’s battles

in air on land and sea

First to fight for right and freedom

and keep our honor clean

We are proud to claim the title of United States Marine.

This is to honor George E. Baxter who passed away at his residence surrounded by family on January 31, 2025.  We honor his memory and thank him for his many years of service to our country.

A visitation with the family will be held on Monday, February 10, 2025 from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. from the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc., 519 Walnut Street, Columbia, PA.  A graveside memorial service with full military honors from Red Rose Veterans Honor Guard and Vet 21 Gun Salute will follow at 11:00 a.m. from Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens.

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to the Columbia Animal Shelter, 265 S. 10th Street, Columbia, PA  17512.


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Erma H. Stoner

Along with her late husband Titus, she enjoyed having the Fresh Air Children visit their family farm, volunteering at the Mount Joy Thrift, helping at the former Mennonite Home Gift Shop and spending time with the 40/60 group.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a time of family visitation on Sunday, February 9, 2025 at the Marietta Mennonite Church, 302 Essex Street, Marietta, PA from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, February 10, 2025 at 11:30 a.m. from the Landisville Mennonite Church, 3320 Bowman Road, Landisville, PA with family visitation from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service.

Private interment will be held in the Landisville Mennonite Cemetery.

 

Erma H. Stoner, 97, a lifelong Landisville resident, passed away on Friday, January 31, 2025 at her residence. She was the wife of the late Titus B. Stoner with whom she was married 74 years until his death on November 19, 2024. Born in Landisville, she was the daughter of the late J. Harold and Minnie Holbein Kauffman.

Erma graduated from the former East Hempfield High School with a perfect attendance record for 12 years. A homemaker, she was employed for many years at Millers Greenhouse, retiring at the age of 90. Erma was a faithful member of the Marietta Mennonite Church where she was a longtime Sunday School teacher.  Along with her late husband Titus, she enjoyed having the Fresh Air Children visit their family farm, volunteering at the Mount Joy Thrift, helping at the former Mennonite Home Gift Shop and spending time with the 40/60 group. She was a loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, great-great-grandmother, sister and aunt who served her family and treasured her time with them. 

She is survived by her children, Donald husband of Clara (Martin), Landisville; Jean wife of Dale Hackman, Mount Pleasant, IA;  Joyce wife of Dale Ropp, Bemidji, MN; Dennis husband of Karen (Martin), East Earl; Judy Stoner, Landisville; David husband of Janice (Fahnestock), Manheim; 15 grandchildren, seven step- grandchildren, 43 great-grandchildren, two great -great- grandchildren; siblings, Richard H. husband of Eleanore Kauffman, Lancaster and Anna Mae Kauffman, Landisville. Her brothers, J. Harold and Robert H. Kauffman and her great- granddaughter, Kenya preceded her in death.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a time of family visitation on Sunday, February 9, 2025 at the Marietta Mennonite Church, 302 Essex Street, Marietta, PA from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. Funeral services will be held on Monday, February 10, 2025 at 11:30 a.m. from the Landisville Mennonite Church, 3320 Bowman Road, Landisville, PA with family visitation from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service. Private interment will be held in the Landisville Mennonite Cemetery.

Kindly omit flowers. Memorial contributions may be made to the Galilean Children’s Home, 712 S. Fork Church Road, Liberty, KY 42539 or to Caring Hospice Services, 101 Good Drive, 1st Floor, Lancaster, PA 17603.


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William F. Styer, Sr.

Bill was devoted family man who treasured spending time with his children and grandchildren.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, February 10, 2025 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 at St. Joseph’s New Catholic Cemetery.

 

William “Bill” Styer, Sr., 81, of Columbia passed away on February 1, 2025. He was born in Lancaster to the late Lester Styer, Sr. and Mary Mummaw and was a lifelong resident of this area.

Bill attended Red Lion High School and worked for many years with Kunzler Meats until his retirement. He was a member of the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (I.A.T.S.E.) and worked an abundance of productions with the Fulton and Strand theaters and the movie “Witness” among others. Bill was devoted family man who treasured spending time with his children and grandchildren.

Bill leaves behind three children, Bill Styer, Jr., husband of April Campbell of Kissimmee, FL, Jodi, wife of Keary Smith of Columbia, Peggy, wife of Joe Spiese of Columbia; five grandchildren, Carlyle Styer, Dylan Smith, Brady Smith, Brett Spiese, and Brynn Spiese; two siblings, Rose, wife of the late Jim Coonan of Manheim, Sam Mummaw of Lancaster; numerous nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife Grace Styer in 2022; a granddaughter, Nicole Styer; two siblings, Lester Styer, Jr. and Art Mummaw, Jr.; his step-father, Arthur Mummaw, Sr.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, February 10, 2025 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 at St. Joseph’s New Catholic Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Hospice and Community Care, 685 Good Dr, Lancaster, PA 17601.


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Julie I. Zink

She enjoyed gardening, crocheting, puzzles and coloring.

Funeral Services: Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc., 519 Walnut Street, Columbia, PA on Monday, February 3, 2025 at 2:30 p.m.

Visitation with the family will begin at 1:30 p.m.

 

Julie I. Zink, 77, of Columbia, PA, passed away on Tuesday, January 28, 2025 at Pleasant Acres Rehabilitation and Nursing Center in York, PA. She was born in Columbia to the late Harvey Ness, Sr. and Margaret Runkle Ness. She is preceded in death by her husband, James P. Zink, one daughter, one grandson, five sisters and two brothers.

Julie was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, friend and caregiver. She worked as a Nursing Assistant at St Anne's Home and as a home health nurse for many years.

She loved spending time with her family especially the grandkids.

She enjoyed gardening, crocheting, puzzles and coloring. She also enjoyed cooking, baking, watching her favorite TV shows and listening to music.

Julie is survived by five daughters, Lesia Spackman (Dale) Columbia, Roni Royer (Tim) Middletown, Betty Munoz, Debrah Smith (Carl) Millersville, Michelle Zink companion of (Willie Smith) Columbia. Also, nine grandkids, nine great grandkids, one brother, one sister and numerous nieces and nephews.

Funeral Services will be held from the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc., 519 Walnut Street, Columbia, PA on Monday, February 3, 2025 at 2:30 p.m. Visitation with the family will begin at 1:30 p.m.

In Julie's memory contributions can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, P.O. Box 96011, Washington, DC 20090-6011.


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Barbara A. Tropp

A parishioner of St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church, Lancaster.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, February 4, 2025 at 11:00 AM at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church, 501 E. Orange St., Lancaster, PA 17602 .

Friends may view at the church one hour prior to the mass

Burial will follow in Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens.

 

Barbara A. Tropp, 84 of Strasburg, formerly of West Hempfield Township, passed away on Monday, January 27, 2025. She was the wife of the late George C. Tropp with whom she was married 40 years until his death in 2003. Born in Pottsville, PA she was the daughter of the late Michael J. and Kathryn Schiedy Murphy.

Barbra was employed as a clerk at Weis Markets on Stony Battery Road for many years and was a parishioner of St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church, Lancaster.

Surviving is her son, Michael J. husband of Meredith Tropp, Strasburg; two granddaughters, Samantha and Madelyn. Her daughter, Lori Ann and sister Helen Jante preceded her in death.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, February 4, 2025 at 11:00 AM at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church, 501 E. Orange St., Lancaster, PA 17602 with the Rev. Matthew Morelli, celebrant. Burial will follow in Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens. Friends may view at the church one hour prior to the mass.

Kindly omit flowers. Memorial contributions in Barbras name may be made to the Tunnels to Towers Foundation at: www.t2t.org


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