She enjoyed spending time at the family cabin in Cross Forks, Potter County and the company of her cat "Kitten."

Funeral services: Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc. 519 Walnut St. Columbia PA on Monday, June 16, 2025, at 11:00 AM.

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

Burial will follow in Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens.

 

Carol A. Caswell, 80 of Columbia, passed away on Monday, June 9, 2025, at her residence after a lengthy illness. She was the wife of the late Donald L. Caswell who preceded her in death in 2014. Born in Columbia, she was the daughter of the late George A. Leschke Sr. and Joephine Rapp Leschke.

Carol retired from the former Grinnell Corporation, Columbia after 25 years of service. She enjoyed spending time at the family cabin in Cross Forks, Potter County and the company of her cat "Kitten." Most of all she relished her time with her family especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

She is survived by her children, Ronald L. Caswell, Sr. (Veronica); Theresa A. Lesher (Douglas Sr.); Kelly S. Loreto; five grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; brothers, George N. Leschke (Sue); George A. Leschke, Jr. and sister Barbara Collier. She was preceded in death by her grandson, Ronald L. Caswell, Jr. and sister Delores M. Peters.

Carols children would like to thank Josy Lesher for her continued support on helping them with their mom and to the staff of Compassus Hospice.

Funeral services will be held from the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc. 519 Walnut St. Columbia PA on Monday, June 16, 2025, at 11:00 AM with Pastor Rick Fischl, officiating. Burial will follow in Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens. Friends may view on Monday one hour prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Compassus Hospice, 2101 Oregan Pike, Ste 301, Lancaster PA 17601 or to the Multiple Sclerosis Society.

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He loved the mountains, fishing and being surrounded by his family and friends.

A Celebration of Life Service will be scheduled at a later date.

Jeremy M. Duke, 37, of Columbia, PA, passed away on June 7, 2025 at Hershey Medical Center surrounded by his family.

He’s survived by his parents, Mitch and Tammy Duke; two brothers, Josh and David Duke and a niece, Delilah, daughter of David.

Jeremy was an avid fan of the Pittsburgh Steelers! He loved the mountains, fishing and being surrounded by his family and friends.

A Celebration of Life Service will be scheduled at a later date.

To send an online condolence visit www.clydekraft.com

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Jim was a familiar sight around Columbiana, enjoying the park, and even driving his prized tractor to get supplies and materials for his latest project.

James will be interred in Firestone Cemetery, Columbiana, OH at 1:00 PM, June 14, 2025

 

James acquired his final peace on June 3, 2025 shortly after suffering a neurological episode.

Jimmy, as he was known to everybody, was 65; born August 15, 1959 to his parents Jean (Myers) and Raymond Candel, both of whom preceded him in death. He leaves three sisters, Martha (James) Koehler of Syracuse, NY, Linda (Terrance) Brotherton of Pleasantville, NY, and Patricia (James) Schmidt of Wilmington, NC. He will be especially missed by his beloved six nieces and nephews and his fourteen great-nieces and nephews, for whom he always had a

smile and maybe something special.

From his home on Park Ave. Jim was a familiar sight around Columbiana, enjoying the park, and even driving his prized tractor to get supplies and materials for his latest project. With the loving assistance of many friends, Jim was, proudly, a nearly-lifelong resident of Columbiana,

OH, leaving only when escalating health problems required a change to southern Pennsylvania for proximity to, and needed help from, family.

James will be interred in Firestone Cemetery, Columbiana, OH at 1:00 PM, June 14, 2025. Friends wishing to attend are welcome.

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She was a gifted seamstress who loved crafting and enjoyed crocheting, doll dresses, and flowers.

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

Susan Kathleen Floyd, 77, of Columbia passed away on May 30, 2025. She was born in Lancaster to the late Lloyd and Patricia Connely Demmy and was a lifelong resident of this area.

Susan was a graduate of Manheim Central High School with the Class of 1966 and was a homemaker who was a loving caretaker of her family and late husband. She was a gifted seamstress who loved crafting and enjoyed crocheting, doll dresses, and flowers. Susan was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and aunt who adored her family and treasured spending time with them.

Susan leaves behind four children, Michael, husband of Deb Floyd of Conestoga, Jennifer, wife of Jon McWilliams of York, Kathleen, wife of Paul Frey of Ephrata, Diane Floyd of Columbia; three grandchildren, Grace, Marie, and Trevor; three siblings, Barbara Mull of Lititz, Judy, wife of Kevin Miller of New Jersey, David, husband of Maryann Demmy of Maytown; numerous nieces and nephews and a large extended family. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband Carl Floyd in 2010, an infant son, John Floyd, and a brother Tom Demmy.

There will be no formal services for Susan and any future services will be announced by her family. Kindly omit flowers.

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Ed enjoyed fishing and was also a member of the Lancaster Liederkranz.

A graveside service for Ed will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, June 6, 2025 at Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens, 845 Laurel Hill Rd, Columbia, PA 17512.

 

Edward “Ed” Von Stetten, 72, of Huntingdon passed away on May 31, 2025. He was born in Columbia to the late Martin and Clara Mae Fisher Von Stetten and spent most of his life in Columbia.

Ed was a graduate of Columbia High School with the Class of 1973 and worked with QVC for thirty-two years before his retirement. He played Santa for many years at the former Columbia United Methodist Church at their Secret Santa events. A member of the church for many years, Ed loved to sing and was active in the choir. Most recently he was a member of Faith Outreach in Mount Joy before moving to Huntingdon where he attended Trinity Assembly of God. Ed enjoyed fishing and was also a member of the Lancaster Liederkranz.

Ed leaves behind his wife of twenty-eight and a half years Beverly Von Stetten of Huntingdon; three siblings, Roy, wife of Janet Weitzel of Mountville, Donna S. Von Stetton of Columbia, Deb Von Stetten of Columbia. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by four siblings, Martha, Karen, Martin, Jr., and John Von Stetten.

A graveside service for Ed will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, June 6, 2025 at Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens, 845 Laurel Hill Rd, Columbia, PA 17512.

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His accomplished life was full of adversity and perseverance.

Michael's ashes will be interred in First Reformed UCC's Memory Garden with those of his Father, Mother, and sister Cheryl. 

Michael D. Spiese, Conestoga, son of Vivian Spiese (Kline) and Nathan "Al" Spiese passed away at the age of 69 at his home on May 23, 2025. Michael was born in Columbia, PA and spent his youth and many adult years in East Petersburg before eventually settling in Conestoga.

He was preceded in death by his father, and most recently his mother, and his two siblings Cheryl and Tonya. His surviving siblings are, Stephen (Margaret Whorl) of Columbia; Timothy (Hilary Byerly), Pequea; Monica, Conestoga; and Julio Nieves, Lancaster. Michael is survived by his daughter, Abby, married to Stephen Ulrich and their children, Chloe, Emma, and Kennan.

His accomplished life was full of adversity and perseverance. Despite being born with one arm, he played the French horn, and excelled on Hempfield High Schools wrestling team, even creating his unique style of rib-jabs that would evade referees. He attended Slippery Rock University majoring in Physical Education. He enjoyed riding his customized dirt bike featuring the clutch and throttle together on the left handlebar.

He excelled at being a poolside lifeguard, was an avid outdoorsmen, hunting, fishing, gardening, and making sure the song birds and squirrels in Conestoga were spoiled daily at the feeders. Throughout his life Michael was many things, including a devoted caretaker to his mother.

In addition to his physical challenges, he lived with mental illness. Michael was a recovering addict and proud of his recovery journey. He became a Certified Peer Counselor with the National Alliance for the Mentally Ill (NAMI). The supportive community at The 521 Club-2400 Butter Rd., Lancaster was incredibly important to him, and for this the family asks that donations be made in his memory to the 521 Club.

Michael's ashes will be interred in First Reformed UCC's Memory Garden with those of his Father, Mother, and sister Cheryl.

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Larry enjoyed fishing for trout, surf fishing, and deep sea fishing.

celebration of Larry’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 7, 2025 at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, 247 Main St, Landisville, PA 17538.

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

He will be laid to rest at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery at a later date.

 

Lawrence “Larry” Melvin Carey, Jr., 79, of Landisville passed away on May 29, 2025. He was born at the former St. Joseph Hospital in Lancaster, PA on May 13, 1946 to the late Larry, Sr. and Julia Carey. 

He went to Hempfield School and graduated in 1964. Larry worked at Lancaster Malleable Casting Company in the summers out of 11th and 12th grades. He took a 12-week course in business machines in Indianapolis, Indiana and got a job in the shipping room at Musser’s Chip Co. in November of 1964. He worked there till he joined the Army on May 17, 1965.

Larry served in the U.S. Army and went to Fort Jackson, SC for his basic training. He was trained at Fort Gordon, GA for radio repair work. After school he was sent to Germany for 26 ½ months. Following his service, Larry got a job at Snavely’s lumber yard in Landisville the summer of 1968. In September of 1968 he got a job at RCA. He worked there for one year.

In August of 1969 Larry applied and was accepted at Steven’s Trade School. He graduated from there on the GI bill in two years in the commercial baking course. Larry earned the Gold Pell Award for his cakes and decorating from the baking industry. While going to Steven’s Trade School he worked for the Schlotzhuer Bakery part time on Manor Street in Lancaster.

Following trade school Larry got a job at Erb’s store in their bakery. He worked there for a year then decided he needed to work somewhere that had benefits and a chance to create a pension. Larry applied to Millersville University in 1972 and got hired on as a custodian, he hoped for a bakery job but one was not open.  He took what was offered. Larry told the college he was looking for a home. While at the college his one-night boss helped him come to the Lord. He was a preacher at one time. Larry was committed to the Lord and baptized at Grace Baptist Church by Pastor Stoll in 1974. He was currently a member of Christ the King Community Church where he loved to worship. Larry started as a custodial and after 15 years was promoted to custodial II. In seven more years, he was promoted to custodial supervisor. Larry worked all nights and retired January 8, 2005 after 32½ years with Millersville University. Larry was married on June 9, 1989 to Suzanne and baked their own wedding cake. After his wedding, he sold cakes that he made at home and sold many cakes to college staffers in the evening. His son Russell was born in October 1986. For many years, Larry loved hunting deer, pheasants, and other small game. Larry enjoyed fishing for trout, surf fishing, and deep sea fishing. He participated in REACT, a CB radio service to help people on the road with damaged vehicles get assistance. Larry spent several decades being on the Mount Joy Pistol Team and also participating in the rifle shoots and trap shoots. Later he became an air gun instructor to help kids learn how to shoot safely and respect firearms. Larry purchased his BMW motorcycle in 1979. He enjoyed riding it as often as possible and taking rides with his son to the Jigger Shop in Mount Gretna and to Pinnacle Rock Overlook.

Larry leaves behind his wife of almost 40 years, Suzanne Carey of Landisville; his son, Russell, husband of Felicia Carey of York.

A celebration of Larry’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 7, 2025 at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, 247 Main St, Landisville, PA 17538. The family will receive friends for visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. until service time. He will be laid to rest at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Christ the King Community Church, 2449 Marietta Ave, Lancaster, PA 17601.

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Kimberly was known for her infectious laugh and the love she had for all of her family.

Services for Kimberly: 11:00 a.m. on Monday, June 2, 2025 at St. John’s Lutheran Church, 616 Locust Street, Columbia, PA 17512.

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

Burial will follow at Habecker Mennonite Cemetery.

Kimberly Ann Gilbert, 68, of Marietta transitioned from Earth to her heavenly home on May 23, 2025. She was born in Lancaster to Vivian Poindexter Colón and the late Damian Velez Colón and was a lifelong resident of this area.

Kimberly was a graduate of the former St. Joseph Academy with the Class of 1975 and went on to receive her associates degree from Brookstone College of Business in Charlotte, NC where she majored in Accounting. She worked with the Turkey Hill Dairy for many years until her eventual retirement. She was an avid lover of music and bingo. Kimberly also loved to cook, especially for her family. Kimberly was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, and aunt who adored her family and treasured spending time with them. She loved her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and was a member of St. Paul’s Baptist Church where she was baptized. Kimberly was known for her infectious laugh and the love she had for all of her family.

Kimberly leaves to cherish her memory her husband of almost thirty-five years Cleonard Gilbert of Marietta; four children, Nichelle Marie Gilbert of Dover, DE, Cleonard Gilbert, Jr. (Kathryn) of Columbia, Dayna Sian Gilbert (Joel) of Columbia, Yolanda Lynn Johnson (Jonathan) of Lakeland, FL; thirteen grandchildren and fourteen great grandchildren; Her mother, Vivian Poindexter Colón of Columbia; seven siblings, Amelia Gentry of Columbia, Consuelo Nicholson of Columbia, Regina Colón of Pell City, AL, Guadalupe Colón of York, Robert Colón (Ruth Mae) of Lancaster, Raymond Colón (Crystal) of Columbia, Frank Colón of York; a host of nieces and nephews, aunts and uncles, cousins, and many friends. In addition to her father, she was preceded in death by her brother Damian “Cito” Velez.

Services for Kimberly will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, June 2, 2025 at St. John’s Lutheran Church, 616 Locust Street, Columbia, PA 17512 with Rev. Adrian Boxley officiating. The family will receive friends for visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. until service time. Burial will follow at Habecker Mennonite Cemetery. Flowers will be accepted.

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She enjoyed baking and had a witty sense of humor.

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

 

Jazmin Loraw, 32, of Columbia passed away on May 25, 2025. She was born in Columbia to Melissa, wife of Mark Pickel and the late Gardner Bink, Jr. and was a lifelong resident of Columbia.

Jazmin attended Columbia High School. She enjoyed baking and had a witty sense of humor. Jazmin was a loving wife who had a great personality. She is now pain free.

Jazmin leaves behind her husband of almost fifteen years Sean Loraw; two sons, Mark David and Sean Paul Loraw; parents, Melissa and Mark Pickel; siblings, Matthew Gable, Amber Hoffner (John), Gardiner Bink, III (Taralyn), Devin Pickel (Alexandria), Markella Pickel, Danielle Pickel, Zachary Pickel, Mindy Dunn (Eric), Briane Hetter(Adam) and Shayna Pickel.; Maternal grandmother, Paula Duke (Henry); numerous nieces and nephews and a large extended family. In addition to her father, she was preceded in death by her maternal grandfather, John Markley, Sr; Paternal grandparents, Gardiner, Sr. and Catherine Bink.

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

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Klaus loved family, food, and laughter.

A Celebration of Life communion service will be held at St. Paul Espicopal Church, 340 Locust St., Columbia, PA on Saturday, June 7, 2025, at 11am.

A second service will be held at St. Agnes Catholic Church, 200 S Duke St., Shepherdstown, WV on Saturday, June 21, 2025, at 1 pm.

 

Klaus Otto Opalka, 16 December 1933 - 17 May 2025

Klaus Otto Opalka, 91, of Columbia, Pennsylvania, passed away at home on Saturday May 17, 2025. Born December 16, 1933 in Berlin, Germany, he immigrated to the United States with his late wife Regina Opalka (née Paul) and first 3 children in 1964 to settle in Harford County, Maryland.

He worked for the Department of the Army at Aberdeen Proving Ground for 30 years. After retirement, Klaus and his wife traveled to and lived in Nova Scotia, Canada; Martinsburg, WV; and Mountain Lake Park, MD. After his wife passed away in 2018, Klaus moved to Bowie, MD with his youngest daughter, and finally to Columbia, PA for the last 4 years of his life.

Klaus loved family, food, and laughter. He enjoyed traveling and sampling foods from other areas, but he loved his traditional German meals the most. He also enjoyed wood-working for many years. As his life slowed down, he still enjoyed taking walks in warm weather.

Klaus is survived by: his sister, Marianne Serwe, in Berlin, Germany; daughter Gabriele Davis and husband Michael; daughter Christiane Garcia-Alvarez; daughter Bernadette Harmon and husband Michael; son Stephan Opalka and wife Natascha; daughter Beate Wilson and husband Cheyenne; 11 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren.

A Celebration of Life communion service will be held at St. Paul Espicopal Church, 340 Locust St., Columbia, PA on Saturday, June 7, 2025, at 11am. A second service will be held at St. Agnes Catholic Church, 200 S Duke St., Shepherdstown, WV on Saturday, June 21, 2025, at 1 pm.

In lieu of flowers, charitable donations in the name of Klaus Opalka may be made to:

Columbia Food Bank: https://columbiafoodbank.org/
Columbia Dream Center: https://columbiahas.org/

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Sharyn loved to knit, shop, read, and was known for her smile.

Services for Sharyn: Friday, May 30, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. from St. John’s Lutheran Church, 616 Locust Street, Columbia, PA.

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

Burial will follow at Habecker Mennonite Cemetery.

Sharyn Marie Abney Tuell, 78, of Columbia, PA passed away on May 21, 2025. She was born in Columbia to Lucille Poindexter Abney and Moses Abney and was a lifelong resident of Columbia where she was a member of Mt. Zion AME Church. Sharyn loved to knit, shop, read, and was known for her smile. She was beloved by her family and everyone she met.

Sharyn leaves behind her husband, Orlando E. Tuell of Columbia, PA; her sons, Byron Colby Abney Tuell, Sr. husband of Madeline Millan-Tuell and Stephon Moses Abney Tuell; three grandchildren, Marquella Tuell, Chantal Tuell and Colby Tuell, Jr. husband of Olivia Tuell; great grandchildren, Savohn McQueeney and Remi Tuell. She was preceded in death by her son, Galen Kyle Tuell. She also leaves behind two great uncles, Robert Poindexter husband of Shirly Proctor and Jerry Poindexter husband of Elaine Brown; great aunt, Vivian Colon and a great host of cousins and a large extended family.

Services for Sharyn will be held on Friday, May 30, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. from St. John’s Lutheran Church, 616 Locust Street, Columbia, PA with Rev. Dr. Patricia A. McAllister, officiating. The family will receive friends for visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. until time of service. Burial will follow at Habecker Mennonite Cemetery.

The family of Sharyn wish to express their heartfelt thank you and appreciation of all kindnesses shown to them during this time. The flowers, telephone calls and texts will never be forgotten.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to African American Breast Cancer Alliance, P.O. Box 8981, Minneapolis, MN, 55408.

Blessings to All!

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He coached baseball for the Strasburg Little League and was a player and manager for Ben Zangari's softball team for many years.

memorial service: St. Paul's Lutheran Church, 222 N. George St., Millersville, PA on Thursday, May 22, 2025 at 11:00 AM

the family will receive friends beginning at 10:00 AM.

Charles G. "Chuck" Long, Jr., of Lancaster, passed away on May 7, 2025 at his residence. Born In Lancaster, he was the son of the late Charles G., Sr. and Patricia Keen Long.

Chuck was a graduate of Lampeter - Strasburg High School, Class of 1975 and was employed for the past six years at Fenner Precision, Manheim. Earlier in life, he coached baseball for the Strasburg Little League and was a player and manager for Ben Zangari's softball team for many years. In addition, he enjoyed horse racing.

Chuck is survived by his children, Whitney D. Long; Colin A. Long (Mackenzie); sister, Keri Kopp (Mark) and his brothers, John Long (Rachel); Kent Long.

A memorial service will be held at St. Paul's Lutheran Church, 222 N. George St., Millersville, PA on Thursday, May 22, 2025 at 11:00 AM with the Rev. Mark S. Kopp, officiating. There will be no viewing, however the family will receive friends beginning at 10:00 AM.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Paul's Lutheran Church.

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An avid golfer, he was a member of the Cool Creek Country Club as well as the Kreutz Creek VFW Post 7045.

Funeral services will be held at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc. 519 Walnut St., Columbia, PA on Thursday, May 15, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. F

riends may view one hour prior to the service.

Interment in Fairview Cemetery, Wrightsville.

A celebration of Del's life follows the burial at the Cool Creek Country Club.

 

Rodney W. "Del" Crumbling, Sr., 82 formerly of Wrightsville, passed away on Tuesday, May 6, 2025 at Autumn House East where he had resided for the past three years. He was the husband of the late Leah E. 'Sis" Crumbling with whom he was married 55 years until her death in 2021. Born in Wrightsville, he was the son of the late Levere A. and Victoria Dellinger Crumbling.

Del proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy aboard the USS Robert K. Huntington during the Cuban Missile Crisis. He retired after more than 40 years of service from the former Campbell Chain Company, York where he was employed as a welder. An avid golfer, he was a member of the Cool Creek Country Club as well as the Kreutz Creek VFW Post 7045.

Del is survived by his children, Rodney W. "Pudge" Crumbling, Jr. (Ava Rodriguez); Brian W. Crumbling; Julie Leschke (David); grandchildren, Amber, Cody, Kevin, Blake, Brooke, Kari, Lee, Avian, Talim and Rayli; great-grandchildren, Faith, Alex, Ben, Sarah and Harmony; sister, Audrey Ackerman-Frey and his companion, Mona Decker. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Melinda Schwartz.

Funeral services will be held at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc. 519 Walnut St., Columbia, PA on Thursday, May 15, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Tanya Brubaker, officiating. Friends may view one hour prior to the service. Interment in Fairview Cemetery, Wrightsville. A celebration of Del's life follows the burial at the Cool Creek Country Club.

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Over the course of her working life, she received numerous awards in recognition of her tireless efforts on behalf of persons with mental illnesses and their families.

Vivian’s Celebration of Life service will take place at First Reformed Church, Lancaster, on May 24, Vivian’s 99th birthday, at 2:00 P.M. 

Her ashes will be interred in First Reform’s “Memory Garden” with those of her husband, and daughter Cheryl.

Vivian K. Spiese, Conestoga, passed away Saturday morning, May 3rd, at the age of 98 after a brief illness.  Her long life was one of service to her family, community, and church.  Born Vivian Kline in Lancaster, she spent her early years living in Mt. Joy before her family moved back to Lancaster, and then to Columbia, where she met her future husband, Nathan “Al” Spiese.  They eventually settled in East Petersburg, and lived there for nearly forty years, raising five children during this time.

A life-long United Church of Christ member, she held numerous governance positions within the church, and also became a trainer and youth worker.  Gifted with a beautiful soprano voice, Vivian sang in the church choir for many years.

In the 1970s, Vivian began her professional life as a teacher in Lancaster’s Head Start day-care  program.   She attended college part-time, earning credits at Franklin & Marshall and Cheyney State University, and concentrated in Early Childhood Development at Millersville University.  She became center director in The Head Start program, serving in that position for fifteen years. 

In the 1980s, Vivian turned her considerable talents and energy to advocating for people with mental illnesses and their families, continuing these efforts well into her 90s, only retiring two years ago.  It would be impossible to overestimate the number of individuals and families whose lives she changed through her advocacy and education efforts.  In 1988, she became president of the Lancaster Alliance for the Mentally Ill, and continued to serve in that organization, as well as in the National Alliance for the Mentally Ill (NAMI), as either an officer or board member, nearly until her passing.  As Director of Affiliate Relations for NAMI of Pennsylvania, Vivian coordinated the annual state conference, handled the membership process, and visited with local affiliates to provide support and education.  Additionally she spoke at state Forensic and Case Management conferences on the family experience with mental illness, and appeared on local and regional television programs.

In 1997, Vivian was named Special Assistant for NAMI Pennsylvania, where, in addition to numerous other responsibilities, she presented at workshops and trainings for police departments, prison staff, and all the district justices of Pennsylvania – anyone who might come into contact with persons suffering from mental illness, who so often end up in the legal system with no support or advocacy.

Vivian finished her long career as a Special Assistant at the Family Training and Advocacy Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where she prepared curriculum materials, presented at workshops, and participated in the training of mental health professionals.  Over the course of her working life, she received numerous awards in recognition of her tireless efforts on behalf of persons with mental illnesses and their families.

Vivian was preceded in death by her husband of fifty years, Nathan E. “Al” Spiese, and two siblings, Lloyd Kline of Newark, Delaware, and Evelyn Rodkey of Columbia.  She was also preceded in death by two daughters, Cheryl and Tonya.  Her surviving children are, Stephen (Margaret Whorl) of Columbia; Timothy (Hilary Byerly), Pequea; Monica, Conestoga; Michael, Conestoga, with whom she resided; and Julio Nieves, Lancaster.  She is also survived by four grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.  Vivian’s Celebration of Life service will take place at First Reformed Church, Lancaster, on May 24, Vivian’s 99th birthday, at 2:00 P.M.  Her ashes will be interred in First Reform’s “Memory Garden” with those of her husband, and daughter Cheryl.  In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in her honor be made to NAMI of Pennsylvania.

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“IF you ever met him, you’d never forget him.”

Services for Jim will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, May 16, 2025 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 be private and he will be laid to rest beside his son at Holy Trinity Catholic Cemetery.

“IF you ever met him, you’d never forget him.”

James “Jim” “Stink” Howe, 85, of Columbia passed away on May 7, 2025. He was born in Columbia to the late Frank and Jennie Hohenadel Howe and was a lifelong resident of Columbia.

Jim attended Columbia High School where he was a member of the wrestling team. He worked with the former ITT Grinnell for twenty-one years before working with New Standard until his eventual retirement. Jim loved woodworking and built many fine pieces for his family and toyboxes for his grandchildren. He enjoyed visiting his camp in the mountains of Perry County and also every holiday, especially Halloween. Jim was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother, and uncle who adored his family and treasured spending time with them.

Jim leaves behind his wife of almost forty-seven years, Christine Howe of Columbia; two daughters, Jennie Livelsberger of Columbia, Kimmi Sawyer, companion of Jake Graham of Columbia; five grandchildren, Crystal Aston, Joseph Livelsberger II, Shannon Sawyer, Kerri Conrad, Jill Millhouse; six great grandchildren; a brother Charles “Sonny”, husband of Pat Howe of Elizabethtown; numerous nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, James M. Howe and three sisters, Thelma Howe, Jane Nau, and Helen Lively.

Services for Jim will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, May 16, 2025 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 be private and he will be laid to rest beside his son at Holy Trinity Catholic Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

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Buzz liked going on cruises, casino bus trips, spending Summers at his place at the beach in Delaware, people watching, carpentry, and playing with his grandchildren in the backyard

Mass of Christian Burial: 11:00 a.m. on Monday, May 12, 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 be private and he will be laid to rest with his son at Holy Trinity Catholic Cemetery.

Robert John “Buzz” Pelen, 83, of Columbia passed away on May 4, 2025. He was born in Columbia to the late John and Phyllis Shortlidge Pelen and was a lifelong resident of Columbia.

Buzz was a graduate of Lancaster Catholic High School with the Class of 1960 and proudly served in the United States Army being stationed at Fort Chaffee in Arkansas. Following his service, he worked with RCA in Lancaster, the former ITT Grinnell, and in construction where he helped build Park City Center. Buzz was also union president of Local 376 AFL-CIO and completed courses earning numerous certificates from all over the USA.

In his later years he became a realtor and had his own business of flipping homes. Buzz enjoyed Penn State Football tailgating, NASCAR races, and playing on the Hartman’s Café softball team. He also liked going on cruises, casino bus trips, spending Summers at his place at the beach in Delaware, people watching, carpentry, and playing with his grandchildren in the backyard. Buzz was a lifelong parishioner of Holy Trinity Catholic Church where he served as an usher.

Buzz leaves behind his wife of sixty years Frances Pelen of Columbia; his daughter, Melissa, wife of Jim Elliott of York; two granddaughters, Kelsey Lenhert of Mount Joy, Kendall Lenhert of Lancaster; great granddaughter, Joelle Lenhert of Mount Joy; a brother, Tom Pelen of Millersville; two step granddaughters, Madison Graham and Kendall Moxley; two step great grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, James G. Pelen; two siblings, Donald “Nip” Pelen and Sara “Sally” Young.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, May 12, 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 be private and he will be laid to rest with his son 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 or Columbia Meals on Wheels, P.O. Box 391, Columbia, PA 17512.

The family would like to thank the staff of UPMC Lititz and the Hillman Cancer Center, especially Dr. Sunil Patel and Dr. Naeem Latif, as well as Sister Anna Cosgrove for the great care they showed toward Buzz.

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When not serving others, Bonnie enjoyed knitting, playing golf and traveling with her husband.

A Mass of Christian Burial: St. Peter’s Catholic Church, 121 S. Second St., Columbia, PA 17512 on Monday, May 19th at 11:00 am.

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.  

Bonnie Jeannine Eck, 88, of Columbia, passed away May 4th, 2025 at St. Anne’s Retirement Community. She was the wife of the late Richard C. Eck with whom she shared 64 years of marriage. Born in Dallastown PA, Bonnie was the daughter of the late James Schmidtand the late Janet R. Schmuck. 

Those who knew Bonnie, recognized how dedicated she was to caring for others, often using the knowledge and skills she gained from her career as a registered nurse and educator to improve the lives of the people in her community. After earning her nursing degree from St. Joseph’s Hospital School of Nursing, she earned a Bachelor of Education from Millersville University, and a Master of Education from Temple University. The majority of her career was spent teaching nursing students at St. Joseph’s Hospital School of Nursing. She also worked as a Rehabilitation Nurse at Elizabethtown Hospital and Genex Services.  

Even in her retirement, Bonnie was committed to being of service to others. She volunteered for the St. Vincent de Paul Society, Homes of Hope, Winter Shelter in Columbia, and as a parish nurse. She also worked with children at the childcare program at the Hempfield Rec Center and Schreiber Center for Pediatric Development. 

When not serving others, Bonnie enjoyed knitting, playing golf and traveling with her husband. They shared fond memories of hiking in the Rockies, skiing in Switzerland, and spending time with family and friends at the cabin Richard built in Pine Grove Furnace State Park. Bonnie often used her skills as a watercolorist to depict scenes from her travels. 

She is survived by her four children, Andrew, husband of Cori Eck; Gerard, husband of Wendy Eck; Gregory, husband of Yvonne Eck; and Mary, wife of Sean Noone; nine grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren; her sister Janet Kreeger; brother James Schmidt Jr; and sister-in-law Emily Hoover. 

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Peter’s Catholic Church, 121 S. Second St., Columbia, PA 17512 on Monday, May 19th at 11:00 am with the Rev. Augustine Joseph,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, donations to the St. Peter’s St. Vincent de Paul Society would be deeply appreciated.

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The joy of her life was her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.

Funeral services: St. John’s Lutheran Church, Sixth & Locust Streets, Columbia, PA on Tuesday, May 13, 2025 at 11:00 a.m.

FRIENDS AND FAMILY may view at the church one hour prior to the service.

Burial will follow in Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens.

 

Barbara “Barb” L. Barrett, 86 of Mountville, formerly of Columbia, passed away on Tuesday, May 6, 2025 at her residence. Barb as known to her friends or Sis to her siblings, was the wife of the late Johnnie C. Barrett with whom she was married 19 years until his death in 1998. Born in Granville Twp., Mifflin County, she was the daughter of the late Paul David and Anna McMullen Grove.

Barbara graduated from Lewistown High School in 1956 and was employed as an early childhood educator, retiring from the former Columbia Day Care Center after 20 years of service. She was a devoted member of St. John’s Lutheran Church, Columbia, sang in the church choir and volunteered at the Columbia Meals on Wheels.

The joy of her life was her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.

Barbara is survived by her children, Debra K. Barrett (Keith Frey); Mark A. Pittman (Victoria); David R. Pittman (Maria); Amy S. Ward (Richard Jr.); ten grandchildren and ten great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her siblings, Pearl Lerch and Joseph Grove.

Funeral services will be held at St. John’s Lutheran Church, Sixth & Locust Sts. Columbia PA on Tuesday, May 13, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. with the Rev. Richard Whitesell, officiating. Burial will follow in Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens. Friends may view at the church one hour prior to the service.

Kindly omit flowers. Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice and Community Care. PO Box 4125, Lancaster PA 17604 or at www.hospiceandcommunitycare.org.

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He had a great passion for classic rock music and a special place in his heart for anything Bob Dylan.

A service of remembrance will be held at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral, Inc. 519 Walnut St. Columbia PA on Thursday, May 15, 2025 at 2:30 p.m.

Friends will be received at the funeral home beginning at 1:30 p.m.

 

Donald “Buzz” Gable of Columbia, passed away at home on Monday, May 5, 2025. He was the husband of Patti Weisser Gable and they would have been married 52 years this July. Born in Columbia, he was the son of the late Donald and Wilma Millar Gable.

Buzz was a 1966 graduate of Columbia High School and was a U.S Navy veteran. He retired from the Armstrong Ceiling Plant, Marietta. He had a great passion for classic rock music and a special place in his heart for anything Bob Dylan.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his son, Andrew husband of Mindi Gable; daughter, Lauren Gambler; his grandchildren, Sawyer and Rosalie Gambler; his sisters, Donna wife of Garry Newcomer and Georgeann Gable.

“I’ll remember you, When I’ve forgotten all the rest. You to me were true. You to me were the best.” – Bob Dylan.

A service of remembrance will be held at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral, Inc. 519 Walnut St. Columbia PA on Thursday, May 15, 2025 at 2:30 p.m. Friends will be received at the funeral home beginning at 1:30 p.m.

Kindly omit flowers. Contributions in Buzz’s memory may be made to Mount Bethel Cemetery, PO Box 231, Columbia PA 17512.

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She enjoyed visiting Stone Harbor with family.

graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, May 9, 2025 at Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens, Columbia, PA 17512.

 

Anna Mary Marcello, 76, of Columbia passed away on May 2, 2025. She was born in Columbia to the late Stephen and Lorraine Troutman Marcello and was a lifelong resident of Columbia.

Anna was a graduate of Columbia High School with the Class of 1967 and worked with the former Khan Lucas and St. John Herr Estate until her eventual retirement. She enjoyed visiting Stone Harbor with family. Anna was a loving sister, aunt, great aunt, and cousin who adored her family and treasured spending time with them.

Anna leaves behind her nieces and nephews, Ed and Lynn Wise of Lancaster, Lorie and Bill Swingler of Columbia, Cathy Wise of Columbia, Aimee and John Neidig of Columbia, Connie Lehman, Craig Lehman, and Keith Lehman. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by two siblings, Ed Wise and Faye Lehman; her sister-in-law, Leota Wise.

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, May 9, 2025 at Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens, 845 Laurel Hill Rd, Columbia, PA 17512. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Caring Hospice, 101 Good Dr, Unit 1, Lancaster, PA 17603.

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