Posts in obituaries
Dale L. Kraft

He loved to mow with his riding mower and sit on the front porch and people watch.

Funeral services for Dale will be held on Friday, October 31, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. from the Washington Boro Church of God, 15 Rockfish Street, Washington Boro, PA, 17582.

Friends may call at the Washington Boro Church of God one hour prior to the service. 

Interment will follow in Riverview Burial Park.

Dale L. Kraft, 79, of Washington Boro, PA died on Monday, October 27, 2025, at Lancaster General Hospital following a brain cancer diagnosis. Born in Columbia, he was the son of the late, George P. and Laura E. Kraft.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Sandra E. (Gipe) Kraft in 2015. He is survived by his daughter, Melinda (Mindy) Kraft and her companion Richard Miller, Jr., of Washington Boro; three grandchildren, Elizabeth Ibach (Dustin), of Lancaster, Ryan Miller companion of Sarah Brommer, of Columbia and Jennifer Eisenhauer (Joshua), of Harrisburg and four great grandchildren, Colton, Evelynn, Lillian and Josephine.

Dale retired in 2011 as a mechanic at Kauffman’s Garage for over 40 years.  He was a member of Washington Boro Church of God and enjoyed going to bible study and Tuesday morning breakfast. Dale was a lifetime member of Blue Rock Fire and Rescue Co., formerly Washington Boro Fire Co., since 1961 where he held many positions with the fire company including chief and chief engineer. He was in the PA National Guard for 6 years from 1966-1972.  He was an armed vehicle driver and had his Marksman Rifle and Expert Rifle Qualifications. Dale enjoyed spending time with his family, especially at the cabin in Potter County. He loved to mow with his riding mower and sit on the front porch and people watch.

Funeral services for Dale will be held on Friday, October 31, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. from the Washington Boro Church of God, 15 Rockfish Street, Washington Boro, PA, 17582 with Pastor Dave Johnson, Officiating. Friends may call at the Washington Boro Church of God one hour prior to the service.  Interment will follow in Riverview Burial Park. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to the Washington Boro Church of God.

 


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Jane E. Siltzer

Jane was a longtime garment worker, having last been employed by the former Roanna Girl Garment Company.

Funeral services be held at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc., 519 Walnut St., Columbia, PA on Monday, October 27, 2025 at 11:00 AM.

Viewing one hour prior to the service.

Burial will follow in Silver Spring Cemetery.

Jane E. Siltzer, 90 formerly of Columbia, passed away on Sunday, October 19, 2025. She was the wife of the late Gordon L. "Hick" Siltzer who preceded her in death in 1989. Born in Columbia, she was the daughter of the late Walter and Mary Keller Nau.

Jane was a longtime garment worker, having last been employed by the former Roanna Girl Garment Company.

She is survived by her children, Gordon L. Siltzer, Jr. (Marilyn Hartman) Shermans Dale, PA; and Brenda K. Siltzer, with whom she resided; sister, Mary Ellen wife of Clarence "Butch" Peters, Columbia. She was preceded in death by her siblings, Virginia Schaeffer, Marlin Nau and Wayne Nau.

Funeral services be held at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc., 519 Walnut St., Columbia, PA on Monday, October 27, 2025 at 11:00 AM with the Rev. Jeff Engroff, officiating. Burial will follow in Silver Spring Cemetery. Viewing one hour prior to the service.

If desired, memorial contributions may be made to Hospice and Community Care.

 


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Nancy Jane DiGiacomo

She was most happy gardening, feeding the birds and squirrels around her yard, and cooking for her family.

In honor of her final wishes, Nancy has donated her body to medical science and there will be no formal services.

Nancy DiGiacomo, 94, of Columbia passed away on October 19, 2025. She was born in Columbia to the late Joseph and Mary McElroy Halter.

Nancy was a graduate of Columbia High School with the Class of 1949. She was most happy gardening, feeding the birds and squirrels around her yard, and cooking for her family. Nancy was a faithful member of Pennside Presbyterian Church where she was active in the choir and was an Ordained Elder who served as Commissioner and Moderator to the Lehigh Presbytery and to the General Assembly. She also volunteered with Meals-On-Wheels and English as a Second Language for kindergarten – first grade students. Nancy was a devoted, wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, and aunt who adored her family and treasured spending time with them.

Nancy leaves behind her husband of almost seventy-five years James DiGiacomo of Columbia; two children, Tom, husband of Glenna DiGiacomo of Fanwood, NJ, Mindy, wife of Michael Hennessey of Matthews, NC; six grandchildren, Jessica, Rebecca, Emily, Adam, Caitlin, and Harry; one great grandchild, Wyatt; three siblings, Robert Halter, husband of Ann Miller of Willow Street, Michael, husband of Shirley Halter of Columbia, Linda, wife of Donald Birk of Columbia; numerous nieces and nephews and a large extended family. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her son Stephen DiGiacomo and two siblings, Joseph and Sue Halter.

In honor of her final wishes, Nancy has donated her body to medical science and there will be no formal services. Any future services will be announced by her family. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Pennside Presbyterian Church, 253 N. 25th St, Reading, PA 19606.

 


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Dawn E. Rigel Aston Moore

Dawn found great joy in ceramics, loved playing bingo, and was an avid reader.

A graveside service will be held on Thursday, October 23, 2025 at 10:00 AM in Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens, 845 Laurel Hill Road, Columbia, PA 17512.

Dawn Elizabeth Rigel Aston Moore, a beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on October 18th, 2025. She was born to Harry, Jr. and Maud Reigel (Kuhns) and was preceded in death by her first husband, Robert Aston, and her second husband, Jack Moore. Dawn was also preceded in death by her cherished son, Robert Lee Aston, Jr. (Boydie), and siblings Blanche, Raymond, Alice, James, Harry, and Betty.

Dawn is survived by her daughter, Kimberly Jo Mathias (Mike), five step children, three grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.

A proud graduate of Columbia High School in 1949, Dawn embarked on a successful career in banking, beginning with Central National Bank and culminating in an 18-year tenure at American Bank and Trust Company, formerly Columbia Trust Company.

Dawn found great joy in ceramics, loved playing bingo, and was an avid reader. Many cherished memories were made at her river cabin on the banks of the Susquehanna River, where she loved the company of family and friends.

A lifelong member of Salem United Church of Christ, Dawn was committed to her faith. She served as a financial secretary for 13 years and was an active participant in both the junior and chancel choirs.

Dawn's warmth and kindness touched the lives of all who knew her. She will be remembered for the love she shared with her family and faith.

A graveside service will be held on Thursday, October 23, 2025 at 10:00 AM in Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens, 845 Laurel Hill Road, Columbia, PA 17512.

In lieu of flowers, the family request that donations be made to Salem U.C.C, Po Box 429, Columbia, PA 17512.

 


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Janet F. Bernstein

Janet was a collector who enjoyed bears, dolls, and comic books.

There will be no formal services for janet.

Janet F. Bernstein, 78, of Columbia passed away on October 16, 2025. She was born in Queens, NY to the late Lawrence and Sylvia McLaughlin and had lived for the last twenty-one years in this area.

Janet was a collector who enjoyed bears, dolls, and comic books. She loved to bake, dining out to eat, and going to the movies. Janet was a devoted wife and mother who adored her family and treasured spending time with them. She was of the Catholic Faith.

Janet leaves behind her son, Chad, husband of Laura Bernstein of Mount Joy; numerous nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband Robert Bernstein in 2012 and two sisters, June and Marguerite.

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

 


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William C. Bossert, Sr.

He was a proud veteran of the U.S. Army, where he honorably served in Alaska.

William C. Bossert, Sr. 82 of York, passed away on Tuesday, October 14, 2025 at the York WellSpan Hospital. He was the husband of the late Patrcia Migdal Bossert with whom he was married 54 years until her death in 2024. Born in Marshallton, PA he was the son of the late Charles and Polly Henson Bossert.

Bill will be remembered by his family as a devoted husband and father who always put others before himself. Known for his unwavering work ethic, he often worked long hours and overtime, yet could always be counted on to mow lawns, lend a hand with heavy lifting or handy man projects, and help Mom with cakes – no matter the hour.

He was a proud veteran of the U.S. Army, where he honorably served in Alaska. Throughout his career he worked for several companies, beginning with Weather Master and later the Burroughs Corporation, where he was recognized as Employee of the Year.  He retired from TIMET.  Bill took great pride in his gardening and had a deep love for his cars, especially his Corvette & Bonneville.  A devoted husband, he lovingly cared for Mom until her passing. He was also a proud member of the Polish American Citizens Club in Coatesville.

He is survived by his children, William C. Jr., husband of Beth Bossert; Patricia Allen; Brian Bossert, husband of Becky Bradbury, and seven grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his siblings, Charles and Woodrow Bossert.

 


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Alma Jane LeBaron

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

In honor of her final wishes, Alma donated her body to Penn State College of Medicine and there will be no formal services.

Alma Jane LeBaron, 93, passed away on October 7, 2025. She was born in Spring Mills, PA to the late Lawrence and Mary Hettinger Albright and was lifelong resident of Dover, PA.

Alma was a graduate of State College High School and worked for many years at Danskin as a sleeve setter before becoming an in-home caregiver. She was a military wife who lived in Puerto Rico. Alma was proud to have received her driver’s license when she was in her fifties. She was a loving mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, and aunt who adored her family and treasured spending time with them.

Alma leaves behind two daughters, Karen, wife of the late Michael Euculano of York, Renee, wife of Scott Moser of Columbia; four grandchildren, Christian (Tara), Laura (Mark), Clark, and Mara; eight great grandchildren, Jonah, Violet, Owen, Zoey, Sadie, Max, Laken, and Avery; one sister, Miriam Sowers of Chambersburg. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by two sisters, Ruth Moyer and Naomi Potter.

In honor of her final wishes, Alma donated her body to Penn State College of Medicine and there will be no formal services.

 


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Christine D. League

She enjoyed gardening and spending time with her grandchildren.

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, October 10, 2025 at Mount Bethel Cemetery, 700 Locust St, Columbia, PA 17512.

Christine Diane League, 72, of Mechanicsburg passed away on October 4, 2025. She was born in Columbia to the late Bernard and Myrtle Desch and lived most of her life in this area.

Christine was a graduate of Mechanicsburg High School and went on to receive her associates degree in business administration from Ivy Tech. She enjoyed gardening and spending time with her grandchildren.

Christine leaves behind three children, Douglas, husband of Dawn Farence of Galveston, TX, Brandon Farence of Mechanicsburg, Shasta Stine of Mechanicsburg; six grandchildren, Summer, Brandy, Brandon, Chasetin, Devon, and Abigail (Doodlebugs); three great grandchildren, Carter, Julie, and Quentin; a sister, Claudia Kost of Mechanicsburg. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother Harlan Desch and her sister Carole Martin.

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, October 10, 2025 at Mount Bethel Cemetery, 700 Locust St, Columbia, PA 17512.  A time of food and fellowship will follow beginning at 1:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. at the Carlisle American Legion, Post 101, 142 N. Hanover St, Carlisle, PA 17013. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to a charity of your choice.

 


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Michael G. Vasali

He will be missed for his sense of humor and his generous spirit.

A private Mass will be held for Michael and he will be laid to rest at St. Josephs New Catholic Cemetery.

Michael Günter Vasali, 67, of Columbia passed away on October 5, 2025. He was born in Ludwigshafen, Germany to Elisabeth and the late George Vasali and spent most of his life in this area.

Michael was a graduate of Manchester High School Central and worked for many years as a librarian at the Thomas Beaver Free Library. He enjoyed trivia, improv acting, and making people laugh. Michael loved animals, especially dogs. He will be missed for his sense of humor and his generous spirit.

Michael leaves behind his mother Elisabeth Vasali of Dry Ridge, KY; three siblings, Sylvia, wife of Bryan Batchelor of Dry Ridge, KY, Christina, wife of Michael Smith of Marietta, Peter, husband of Judy Vasali of York; four nephews and one niece, Zachariah, Justin, Dalton, Nolan, and Linnea; his grand nephew Gyorgy. He was preceded in death by his father.

A private Mass will be held for Michael and he will be laid to rest at St. Josephs 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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Mildred M. Ney

Millie also enjoyed her many trips to Floridia with her sister-in-law Ellen.

Private services will be held at the convenience of the family in Maytown Union Cemetery.

Mildred M. Ney, 88 formerly of Columbia, passed away on Monday, September 29, 2025 at the Mt. Hope Nazarene Retirement Community where she had resided for the past four years. She was the wife of the late L. Ronald "Pap" Ney who preceded her in death in 2008. Born in Lancaster, she was the daughter of the late Frank and Edna Reese Ortlieb.

Millie was a devoted homemaker, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother who dearly loved her family. She was a life member of both the West Hempfield Fire & Rescue Company as well as the Columbia Fish and Game. Millie also enjoyed her many trips to Floridia with her sister-in-law Ellen.

She is survived by her children, Tim S. husband of Donna Ney; Mike D. husband of Doris M. Ney; Patti A. wife of Chris Siltzer; David Paul husband of the late Denise Ney; Mark R. husband of Julianne Ney and Kevin A. Ney; 19 grandchildren and 23 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her son, James Ronald Ney and siblings, Joseph Ortlieb and Patricia Sigman.

Private services will be held at the convenience of the family in Maytown Union Cemetery. Memorial contributions in Mildred's memory may be made to the Mt. Hope Nazarene Retirement Community, 3026 Mt. Hope Rd., Manheim, PA 17545.

 


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Mary Ann Snyder

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, October 6, 2025 at St. Anthonys Roman Catholic Cemetery in Lancaster.

Mary Ann Snyder, 94, of Lancaster passed away on September 30, 2025. She was born in Philadelphia to the late Joseph and Josephine Paparo and spent most of her life in this area. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband Bernard Snyder and her siblings Anthony, Pasquale, Theresa, Rose, Saverio, and Joseph.

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, October 6, 2025 at St. Anthonys Roman Catholic Cemetery in Lancaster with Deacon Tom Owsinski officiating.

 


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Charla Rae Fiano

Charla enjoyed traveling and with her family on vacations and riding the Strasburg Rail Road.

A graveside service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, October 8, 2025 at Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens, Columbia, PA.

 

Charla Rae Fiano, 66, of Columbia passed away on September 28, 2025. She was born in Columbia to the late Clyde and Ruthie Rapp Andrews and was a lifelong resident of this area.  Charla attended Donegal High School.

She enjoyed helping her family and anyone and was a volunteer with the local food bank. Charla enjoyed traveling and with her family on vacations and riding the Strasburg Rail Road. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and aunt who adored her family and treasured spending time with them.

Charla leaves behind her husband Valentino Fiano of Columbia; her children, Robert, husband of Melanie Weirich, Bobbi Jo Bortner, and Nikolaus Andrews; numerous grandchildren and nieces and nephews; a brother Clyde, husband of Donna Andrews. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by an infant son and two brothers, Ben and Scott Andrews.

A graveside service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, October 8, 2025 at Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens, 845 Laurel Hill Rd, Columbia, PA 17512. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Columbia Food Bank, 340 Locust St, Columbia, PA 17512.

 


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Vikki S. Bryant

Vikki was incredibly strong — she fought for her life until the very end. Her strength and resilience will forever be an inspiration to all who knew her.

A private viewing will be held in the near future for close family and friends to honor and remember Vikki and the beautiful person she was.

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Vikki Sue Bryant on September 24, 2025.

Vikki was born in Roseville, California, on November 19, 1975. She was a devoted mother, a loyal friend, and a beautiful soul whose smile and laughter were truly contagious.

She is survived by her two beloved daughters, Debbie Zerphy (spouse of Nicholas Thomas) and Jamie Zerphy, who were the light of her life and her greatest joy. Vikki is also survived by her loving sisters, Suzanne (wife of Shawn Eck)Candy Lee, and Tassi (wife of James Murphy Jr.).

She was preceded in death by her brother, Henry Lee Bryant Jr., her parents, Vickie Bryant and Henry Lee Bryant Sr., her uncle Quay Lee Dellinger Jr., and her grandmother Betty H. Dellinger.

Vikki was most proud of her daughters and always did everything she could to give them the best life possible. She found ways to make things happen and just wanted to see her girls happy.

She found great happiness in spending time with her family and loved ones, reminiscing on cherished memories, and sharing in laughter.

Above all, Vikki was incredibly strong — she fought for her life until the very end. Her strength and resilience will forever be an inspiration to all who knew her.

A private viewing will be held in the near future for close family and friends to honor and remember Vikki and the beautiful person she was.

Vikki’s love, laughter, and light will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her — deeply missed, with a love that will never fade.

 


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Ernest Dean Vitatoe

He liked motorcycles, skiing, trips to the beach, Penn State Football, and spending time with friends and family.

Graveside services will be held on Friday, September 26, 2025 at 11:00 AM in Habecker Mennonite Cemetery, 451 Habecker Church Road, Lancaster, PA 17603.

Ernest D. Vitatoe, 70, of Lancaster passed away peacefully on Friday, September 19, 2025 at Hospice and Community Care, Mount Joy. He was the son of the late Ernest T. and Betty (Reese) Vitatoe and was the husband of Suzanne (Blumenschein) Vitatoe, with whom he shared 38 years of marriage.

Dean graduated from J.P. McCaskey High School and Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology.

He was a member of the Gentlemen M.C. Sportsmen Club and the Lancaster Ski Club. He liked motorcycles, skiing, trips to the beach, Penn State Football, and spending time with friends and family.

In addition to his wife, Dean is survived by three children, John Ruth (Joelle), Ericka Vitatoe (Brian), and Zachary Vitatoe; two grandsons, Roman and Draven Ruth; step mother, Mary Vitatoe; two step sisters, Deb Witmer (Dale) and Carol Bastendorf (Mike); and brother-in-law, Brian Blumenschein.

He was preceded in death by a sister, Brenda Burkholder.

Graveside services will be held on Friday, September 26, 2025 at 11:00 AM in Habecker Mennonite Cemetery, 451 Habecker Church Road, Lancaster, PA 17603.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Hospice and Community Care, 685 Good Drive, Lancaster, PA 17601 or Ann B. Barshinger Cancer Institute. 2102 Harrisburg Pike, Lancaster, PA 17601.

 


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obituariesKelly BrommerComment
Donald C. Haertter

His love for sports was a central part of his life; he was an avid fan of the Philadelphia Phillies, Philadelphia Flyers, and Dallas Cowboys.

A private graveside funeral will be held.

Donald C. Haertter, 78, of Lancaster, passed away peacefully on Saturday, September 13, 2025. He was the son of the late Robert Clair Haertter and Marie Eleanor (Kiling) Haertter.

Donald was a proud graduate of McCaskey High School, Class of 1965. Following graduation, he served his country with honor in the United States Air Force from 1968 to 1972. After his military service, he had a successful career at Hamilton Precision Metals before retiring.

A man of many passions, Donald was a member of St. Paul Evangelical Lutheran Church. His love for sports was a central part of his life; he was an avid fan of the Philadelphia Phillies, Philadelphia Flyers, and Dallas Cowboys. His passion for sports was also evident through his involvement as a PIAA softball official and as a player for the Hillians softball team in his younger years. Don was also an enthusiastic collector with a collection of records and Lancaster Brewery bottles.

Don will be deeply missed by his friends and neighbors who had the pleasure of knowing him. Known for his witty humor, he was always quick with a joke and will be remembered for his kind spirit and friendly nature.

A private graveside funeral will be held.

 


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obituariesKelly BrommerComment
Howard M. Kinnard, Jr.

She was a graduate of Columbia High School, Class of 1946.

Funeral services: Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc. 519 Walnut St. Columbia PA on Monday, September 29, 2025 at 11:00 a.m.

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

Burial will follow in Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens.

Howard Mitchell “Buck” Kinnard, Jr. 67 of Columbia, passed away on Tuesday, September 23, 2025 at home surrounded by his family. Born in Columbia, he was the son of the late Howard Mitchell Kinnard, Sr. and Martha Dombach Kinnard.

A 1977 graduate of Columbia High School, Buck was honorably discharged at the rank of Sergeant in the U.S Air Force which he served in from 1977 thru 1981. A self-employed carpenter, he was a member of the American Legion Post 372 and enjoyed camping, fishing and rooting for the Philadelphia Eagles.

He is survived by his children, Amanda Lynn Kinnard; Brit Nikole Kinnard; Joshua Mitchell Kinnard husband of Ashley; two grandchildren, Natalyn Rose and Sydney Jeanne; sister, Judie wife of Ted Fasig; nephews, James Saunders, Henry Brommer; nieces, Jill Kinnard, Sheree Marley, Deb Kauffman and his beloved dog, Charger. He was preceded in death by his siblings, Jim “Curly” Kinnard, Jean Kopp and Linda Kipp.

Funeral services will be held from the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc. 519 Walnut St. Columbia PA on Monday, September 29, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. with the Rev. Mark S. Kopp, officiating. Burial will follow in Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens. Friends may view on Monday one hour prior to the service. Kindly omit flowers. Memorial contributions may be made to the C.B.A.A PO Box 372, Columbia PA 17512.

 


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obituariesKelly BrommerComment
Mary Catherine Kelly

She loved knitting afghans and shawls.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 13, 2025 at Columbia United Methodist Church, 510 Walnut Street, Columbia, PA. 

A visitation will be held beginning at 10:00 a.m. at the church.

 

Mary Catherine Kelly, 79, of Maytown, PA passed away on September 7, 2025. She was the wife of Charles O. Kelly with whom she celebrated 60 years of marriage on August 12, 2025.   Born in Columbia, PA she was the daughter of the late Herbert F. and Dorothy M. Lichty.  

Mary Catherine was a 1964 graduate of Hempfield High School and Thompson School of Business as a medical secretary.  She retired from St. Joe’s Hospital in Lancaster, PA.  She was a member of Columbia United Methodist Church.  She loved knitting afghans and shawls.

In addition to her husband, Charles, she is survived by two sons, Charles (Bob) R. Kelly companion of Amy, York, PA and William (Bill) H. Kelly husband of Alisa, Swansboro, NC; two grandchildren and two great grandchildren. 

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 13, 2025 at Columbia United Methodist Church, 510 Walnut Street, Columbia, PA with Rev. Tom Grubbs, officiating.  A visitation will be held beginning at 10:00 a.m. at the church. There will be no interment.  

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society at www.cancer.org.

 


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obituariesKelly BrommerComment
Bessie Poindexter

Bessie Poindexter of Fayetteville, NC, passed away at home on Sept.1, 2025. She was the wife of Leroy Poindexter. Born in Loiza Aldea, Puerto Rico, to the late Abraham Rivera and Julia Andino Rivera.

At the tender age of 5, the family moved to Brooklyn, New York, where she attended school, later graduating from Sarah J. Hale in 1979. After school, she secured employment at a Wall Street brokerage where she worked for several years before relocating to Lancaster, Pa, after a visit with some friends. She would later meet Leroy in 1993 and would in-joy laughter, tears and a blissful, soulful relationship. Bessie was a wonderful soul and person. She enjoyed cooking, casinos, traveling, and just chatting on the phone with her daughters and friends. Much can be said about her bubbling personality, such as she was a great listener, caregiver, understanding of everyone, never accepted failure, objective, funny, adventurous, strong, honest, selfless …the list can go on, but to know her was to love her.

Besides her husband Bessie leaves to cherish her memory her children: Joseph of Lancaster, Pa; Vanessa Harris of Spring Lake, NC; Ebony Rivera of Spring Lake, NC; Rhattib of Columbia, Pa and Mahalia Mauss(Vinnie) of Mt. Joy, Pa; devoted son-in-law Joshua Harris; brothers Angel Rivera(Nicole) of New York; and Freddie of New York. Grandchildren Eliyzah, Justin, Dominic, Jayda, Erin, Jayden, Gracie, Leo, Xavier, Alanah, Na-na, Kay, Juju, Lahni, Journee, Avion, and a host of family and friends too numerous to name for the space allotted. Trying times indeed, and the family wishes to express their sincerest gratitude for the unparalleled support, comfort and prayers. May God, in His infinite Wisdom and Mercy, continue to bless you in all your endeavors.  Amen

Services for Bessie will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, September 12, 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 at Habecker Mennonite Cemetery.

She enjoyed cooking, casinos, traveling, and just chatting on the phone with her daughters and friends.

Services for Bessie will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, September 12, 2025 at St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, 616 Locust St, Columbia, PA

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

Burial will follow at Habecker Mennonite Cemetery.


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Nancy D. Hower

Her priority however was always to her family, putting them and others above herself.

In honor of Nan’s final wishes a Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, September 21, 2025 beginning at 2:00 pm. at the VFW Post 2435, 401 Manor St. Columbia PA 17512.

Nancy D. Hower, 80, of Columbia, passed away on Sunday, September 7, 2025. She was the wife of the late Terry (Fred) Hower with whom she was married 57 years until his death in 2022. Born in Chambersburg, she was the daughter of the late Dean J. and Hilda Robinson Cornelius.

Better known as “Nan” to her family and friends, she graduated from Columbia High School in 1964 and operated a home day care center for over 25 years. She also worked as a manager for the former S&H Green Stamps. Nancy was a longtime and active member of the Red Rose Memorial Post 2435 Ladies Auxiliary and was currently serving as its President. Her priority however was always to her family, putting them and others above herself.

Nan leaves behind her children, Scott, husband of Deb Hower; Kimberly, wife of Darryl Brandt; five grandchildren, Luke Brandt, Ashley Quillin, Lauren Ortega, Alex Calhoun, Allison Templeton; five great grandchildren, Gracyn Brandt, Luke Brandt, Jr., Hunter Quillin, Teijen Plata, Hope Quillin; one great great granddaughter Zoey Colon and brothers Darrell Cornelius, Terry Dean Cornelius. She was preceded in death by her siblings, Esther D. Long, Edward D. Cornelius, Terry Lee Cornelius, and Daniel Z. Cornelius.

In honor of Nans final wishes a Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, September 21, 2025 beginning at 2:00 pm. at the VFW Post 2435, 401 Manor St. Columbia PA 17512. If desired, memorial contributions may be made to the VFW Post 2435 at the above address.

 


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William F. Gutierrez

William enjoyed fishing, visiting flea markets, and was an avid Philadelphia Eagles fan.

A celebration of William’s life will be held on Friday, September 26, 2025 from 12:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. at Columbia Crossing River Trails Center, 41 Walnut St, Columbia, PA 17512.

Please wear your favorite Philadelphia Eagles attire or represent your favorite football team.

William F. Gutierrez, 77, of Columbia passed away on September 6, 2025. He was born in Columbia to the late Manuel Espinoza and Ethel Gutierrez and was a lifelong resident of this area. William attended Columbia High School and proudly served in the United States Army. Following his service, he was a self employed in flooring until his retirement. William enjoyed fishing, visiting flea markets, and was an avid Philadelphia Eagles fan. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, uncle, and brother who adored his family and treasured spending time with them.

William leaves behind his wife of fifty-seven years Joyce Gutierrez of Columbia; three children, Tonya Gutierrez of Columbia, Tracey, wife of Robert Goshen of Marietta, Billy Gutierrez of Columbia; ten grandchildren, Shawn, Todd, Jordan, Tyler, Michael, Matthew, Mitchell, Isaac, Alex, and Jas; three great grandchildren, Anthony, Gannet, and Finley; three siblings, Ralph Gutierrez of Columbia, Allen, husband of Linda Espinoza of Lancaster County, Flora Espinoza of California. He was preceded in death by his parents.

A celebration of William’s life will be held on Friday, September 26, 2025 from 12:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. at Columbia Crossing River Trails Center, 41 Walnut St, Columbia, PA 17512. Please wear your favorite Philadelphia Eagles attire or represent your favorite football team.

 


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