Leo enlisted in the Marine Corp and then in the Navy for a combined 13 years of service.

A funeral mass will be held for Leo at Holy Trinity Catholic Church on Tuesday, January 31, 2023 at 11:00 AM.

Burial will follow in St. Peter Catholic Cemetery.

Leo Robert Smith, 71, passed away on Monday, January 23, 2023 in Hellam, PA. Born in Columbia, he was the son of Leo E. and Anna (Bissert) Smith. 

Leo was a member of the Catholic faith. He attended grade school at St. Peters Elementary School and he was a graduate of Lancaster Catholic High School, class of 1969. Leo enjoyed going to horse races, swimming, listening to Jazz music, and animals. He was known to be a sharp dresser, quick-witted, and generous to a fault to the many charities to which he contributed. 

After high school, Leo enlisted in the Marine Corp and then in the Navy for a combined 13 years of service. He served two tours in Vietnam between 1970 and 1973. He received several medals in honor of his service.

Leo is survived by a sister, Eleanor Shirk; a niece, Kaitlyn Shirk; some extended family and close friends. He was preceded in death by a sister, Doris Smith. 

A funeral mass will be held for Leo at Holy Trinity Catholic Church on Tuesday, January 31, 2023 at 11:00 AM. There will be no visitation prior. Father Augustine Joseph and Father Edward Lavelle will officiate. Interment will follow at St. Peter Catholic Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to one of the following charities in Leo’s memory: Wounded Warriors Project, P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, Kansas 66675 or Columbia Animal Shelter, 265 S 10th St, Columbia, PA 17512. Arrangements by Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Columbia/Landisville. www.clydekraft.com

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He was a faithful member of the Zion Lutheran Church, Landisville and enjoyed golfing, gardening, yardwork, woodworking and ice hockey.

Funeral service: Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc. 247 Main St. Landisville PA 17538 on Friday, January 27, 2023 at 1:00 p.m. Friends may call at the funeral home one hour prior to the service.

Burial will follow in Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens.

Richard D. Heim, 82 formerly of Landisville, passed away on Saturday January 21, 2023 at Magnolias of Lancaster where he had resided for the past four months. He was the husband of Marilyn Mervine Heim with whom he was married 62 years until her death on December 2, 2022. Born in Schuylkill County, he was the son of the late Harold E. and Hilda Harner Heim.

He served in the US Air Force from 1958 until 1962, he was stationed in Amarillo, TX, Anchorage AK, and Columbus, OH area.

Richard retired in 1998 after 30 years of service from AMP, Inc. where he was employed as a tool & die engineer. In 1995 he co-received a European Patent for his work on a sealed corrosive-proof crimped terminal or splice. He was a faithful member of the Zion Lutheran Church, Landisville and enjoyed golfing, gardening, yardwork, woodworking and ice hockey

He is survived by his two children, Kenneth husband of Dianna Heim; Kimberly wife of Jeffrey Gruber; four grandchildren, Ariana and Colyn Heim; Leah and Paige Gruber; siblings, Harold husband of Gloria Heim; Ronald husband of Doris Heim; Roger Heim; Ruth wife of Bruce Bohner; and Randy husband of Carrel Heim. His brother David Heim preceded him in death.

The family would like to express their appreciation to the staffs of Magnolias of Lancaster and Grane Hospice for the care given to Richard.

A funeral service will be held from the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc. 247 Main St. Landisville PA 17538 on Friday, January 27, 2023 at 1:00 p.m. with the Pastor Timothy Seitz-Brown, officiating. Burial will follow in Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens. Friends may call at the funeral home one hour prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Zion Lutheran Church, 85 E. Brandt Blvd. Landisville PA 17538 or to Grane Hospice at www.granehospice.com.

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Donald was a big fan of Penn State Football, and all the Philadelphia teams: the 76ers, Eagles and especially his beloved Phillies.

Donald’s Celebration of Life Funeral Service will be held at the Hempfield United Methodist Church, 3050 Marietta Avenue, Lancaster PA 17601 on Monday, January 30, 2023 at 11:00 a.m.

There will be a visitation at the church on Monday between 10 and 11:00 a.m.

Private interment will be in Silver Spring Cemetery.

Donald Butzer, 93, of Lancaster went to be with the Lord Jesus on Saturday January 21, 2023 at the Mennonite Home in Lancaster. Born in Silver Spring (West Hempfield Township), he was the husband of Charlene (Mummaw) Butzer. They celebrated their 69th Wedding Anniversary on November 21, 2022. Donald was the son of the late John Charles and Anna May (Lenhard) Butzer.

Surviving in addition to his wife, Charlene, are his two children: daughter Peggy, wife of Don Scheese and son Ronald; and a sister, Mary Jane married to Jack Wissing. Donald was also the father of the late Betsy Butzer.

Donald attended Hempfield High School. He worked for 40 years as a mason for Charles & Earl Schlegelmilich, Alvin & Drew Mummaw, and Kenneth Buckwalter. As we drove around the area, he would point out to us all of the projects he worked on. His memberships included being a Charter Member of the Silver Spring Volunteer Fire Company, a lifetime member of the VFW, and a member of Hempfield United Methodist Church. Utilizing his skill as a mason, he helped build the original Silver Spring Fire Company.

Donald was a United States Army Veteran and served from 1951-53 during the Korean War in Karlsruhe, Germany in the Armored Division.

Donald loved sports. In his younger years he enjoyed playing hardball and softball for various teams: Chestnut Hill, Mountville, and Central City and County. He also enjoyed hunting in his spare time. Donald was a big fan of Penn State Football, and all the Philadelphia teams: the 76ers, Eagles and especially his beloved Phillies.

After his retirement he enjoyed woodworking, especially making snack tables and constructing items out of tobacco lathes. Donald also enjoyed traveling and made visits to Florida, Minnesota, California, Arizona and Hawaii.

Donald’s family would like to thank Hospice & Community Care of Lancaster County and the Mennonite Home for their compassionate care.

Donald’s Celebration of Life Funeral Service will be held at the Hempfield United Methodist Church, 3050 Marietta Avenue, Lancaster PA 17601 on Monday, January 30, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. with Rev. John Longmire officiating. There will be a visitation at the church on Monday between 10 and 11 a.m. Private interment will be in the Silver Spring Cemetery, Silver Spring, PA.

Kindly omit flowers. Memorial Remembrances can be made in Donald’s memory to the Hempfield United Methodist Church or Hospice & Community Care, 685 Good Dr, Lancaster, PA 17604.

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She loved working outside in her gardens, crocheting many items including baby blankets that she gave to her family.

Services for Julie will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, January 27, 2023 at St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, 100 W. Main St, Mountville, PA 17554.

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

Burial will follow at Mountville Cemetery.

Julia “Julie” R. Greider, 79, entered into rest on Friday, January 20, 2023, at Oak Leaf Manor North. She had been under the care of Caring Hospice Services of Central PA. Born in West Hempfield Township, Lancaster County, she was the daughter of the late B. Frank and Ruth C. Rohrer. She was the loving wife of Jay R. Greider, with whom they celebrated their 46th wedding anniversary.

Julie was a member of the St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, Mountville. She loved working outside in her gardens, crocheting many items including baby blankets that she gave to her family. Julie loved camping with her family. She worked at St. Paul’s United Methodist Church Preschool for 28 years and retired from the Hempfield Rec Center’s after school program.

Surviving in addition to her husband are two sons, Richard Aument (Elaine), of Lititz; Keith Aument (Melissa), of Mount Joy; two step daughters, Brenda Johnson (Scott), of Columbia, MD, Sharon Kiehl (Dave), of Landisville; grandchildren, Andrea, Ryan, Kinsey, Jasmine, Evan, Christopher, Samuel, Hope, and Karli; and one sister, Joanne Noblit, of West Sunbury, PA. She was preceded in death by two sisters, Betty Jane Good Swarr, Nancy R. Graybill; and two brothers, Eugene Rohrer and Gerald Rohrer. She was loved by many nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.

Services for Julie will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, January 27, 2023 at St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, 100 W. Main St, Mountville, PA 17554. The family will receive friends for visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. until service time. Burial will follow at Mountville Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to St. Paul’s United Methodist Church.

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A celebration of Michael's life has been tentatively scheduled for Monday, January 30th, 2023 at 6:00 pm at the Columbia Presbyterian Church.

Michael Weaver, 65, of Columbia, died on Tuesday, January 17, 2023 at his home. Born in Columbia, he was the son of Walt and Mary (Funk) Beaston. He was the husband of Barbara J. (Quinn) Weaver, who preceded him in death in 2001.

Michael graduated from Columbia High School and went on to take classes in mechanics. He enjoyed fishing, working on cars, drawing, and going to car shows and flea markets in town. He was known to have a stubborn streak but was always the first to help anyone who needed it. 

Michael is survived by his son, Shawn Weaver; his daughter, Jessica Ruth, of Wrightsville; four grandchildren; three great grandchildren, and his siblings, Patricia Weaver, Cathy Beaston Cox, and Gene Beaston.

A celebration of Michael's life has been tentatively scheduled for Monday, January 30th, 2023 at 6:00 pm at the Columbia Presbyterian Church, 360 Locust Street. Pastor Dave Powers will officiate. Arrangements by the Clyde Kraft Funeral Home, Columbia/Landisville.

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Earl was a sports enthusiast and enjoyed rooting for his favorite teams, the Colts, Blackhawks and Orioles

A celebration of Earl’s life for family and friends will be held on Sunday, January 29, 2023 from 12:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m at the Catholic War Veterans Post 1306 250 N. Seventh St. Columbia PA.

Earl E. Neidig, Jr. 63, of Columbia passed away Saturday, January 14, 2023 at the Penn State Health Medical Center. He was the husband of Debby Beaston Neidig with whom he was married 33 years. He was born in Lancaster to the late Earl E. Sr. and Jeanne Wittick Neidig.

He retired from Brinks Armored Transportation where he was employed as a driver. Earl was a proud member and past president of the former Columbia Area Jaycees. He was a sports enthusiast and enjoyed rooting for his favorite teams, the Colts, Blackhawks and Orioles. He fondly enjoyed the company of his family especially his grandchildren.

In addition to his wife are his daughters, Rachel Fischer (Ann); Jamie Fry (Joe); Stacy Adams (Barry); 11 grandchildren, two great grandchildren and siblings, Susan West; Robin Enedy (Steve) and John Neidig (Aimee). He was preceded in death by his sister, Cindy Crouse.

A celebration of Earl’s life for family and friends will be held on Sunday, January 29, 2023 from 12:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m at the Catholic War Veterans Post 1306 250 N. Seventh St. Columbia PA 17512.

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A Mass of Christian Burial: Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Columbia, PA on Thursday, January 19, 2023 at 11:00AM. This will be a Closed Casket service, however there will be a Visitation with the family from 10:00AM – 11:00AM. 

The Final Commendation and Farewell in Holy Trinity Catholic Cemetery will be for the Son and Daughter ONLY. 

Joan E. Sheetz, 90 of 140 Clearview Lane, Wrightsville, PA died on January 12, 2023 at Lancaster General Hospital.  Born in Mt. Carmel, PA she was the daughter of the late George and Anna Karasevich Menko. 

She was a member of Holy Trinity Catholic Church.

Surviving is a Son:  Robert D. Sheetz of Prescott, AZ and a Daughter: Karen R. wife of Butch Everly of Mt. Joy, PA., 3 Grandchildren and 3 Great-Grandchildren.  She was predeceased by a Son:  Michael Sheetz. 

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held from Holy Trinity Catholic Church 4th & Cherry Streets, Columbia, PA on Thursday, January 19, 2023 at 11:00AM with Rev. Fr. Daniel C. Mitzel as Celebrant. This will be a Closed Casket service, however there will be a Visitation with the family from 10:00AM – 11:00AM.  The Final Commendation and Farewell in Holy Trinity Catholic Cemetery will be for the Son and Daughter ONLY.  The family requests that flowers be omitted and Memorial Contributions in Joan’s memory be made to a charity of one’s choice. 

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Ann was very family oriented and enjoyed the company of her family and friends.

Memorial Service: St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, 222N. George St. Millersville, PA 17551 on Tuesday, January 17, 2023 at 11:00 a.m.

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

Ann E. Thens, 79, of Millersville, passed away on Saturday, January 7, 2023 at Penn Medicine LGH. She was the wife of Bruce D. Thens with whom she was married 46 years. Born in Snydersville, PA she was the daughter of the late Rev. Roderic and Irene Hanzlik Senft.

A stay-at-home mom, she retired after 15 years of service from MedQuist where she was employed as a medical transcriptionist. Ann was a faithful member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Millersville, and enjoyed cooking and baking, pottery and craft making and loved animals, especially cats. Ann was very family oriented and enjoyed the company of her family and friends.

In addition to her husband, she is survived by her children Laura Ann Wong Thens; Michael David Thens; three grandchildren, Caitlin Marie, Cory Maddox, Julie Ann; sisters, Donna Senft (Rose Glorioso); Ruthie Bailey (Jerry); Janet Lehr (Rev. Fred) and brother Dan Senft. She was preceded in death by her siblings, Linda Strayer (Tim) and David Senft.

A memorial service will be held at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, 222N. George St. Millersville, PA 17551 on Tuesday, January 17, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. with the Rev. Mark S. Kopp, officiating. The family will receive friends at the church one hour prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Ann’s memory to St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, The Humane Society, Millersville Community Church and Grace Cancer Care Ministries, or to the American Cancer Society.

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Jeff was a lover of the party lifestyle, and his home quickly became the hub for band practices and many weekend get-togethers.

celebration of Jeff’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, January 11, 2023 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.

On the early morning hours of January 2, 2023, Jeffrey J. Hanna left his earthly life for whatever awaits us on the other side. 

He was born in Columbia, PA to the late Richard F. Hanna “Dick” and Catherine F. Hanna “Frankie”. He is survived by his wife Renata Hanna; two children, Hilary Mowery and Jeff Hanna, Jr.; one sister, Sandra Frantz and preceded in death by two brothers, Ric and Tim Hanna.

At an early age, Jeff learned to play guitar and piano to accompany his father in the family band, The Dick Hanna Band. Through music, he kept many family members close, and the friends he made became family. The Jeff Hanna Band and The Office Boys played many venues, including overseas. His band mates became part of everyday life for his family. The depth of his encyclopedic knowledge of music is unmatched.

Jeff was a lover of the party lifestyle, and his home quickly became the hub for band practices and many weekend get-togethers. Although many had a love or hate relationship with Jeff, and he could be considered hot-tempered, he welcomed any person from all walks of life into the circle. He never judged others on race, culture, appearance or preference. Having a good time was his top priority.

Although he was not the most involved father when his children were young, he instilled a deep love of all creatures into them. He would never say no to any animal- however big or small. He was a believer in catch and release, no matter how scary the spider appeared. He also possessed a lightning-fast ability of solving math problems in his head, especially when it came to figuring out the best deal on cat food.

Within the past year, Jeff moved to Virginia with his wife Renata. His love for her was something you could only dream to have. He was head over heels in love with their golden retriever, Brinkley and their cats: Bogie, Rosie, Rayna, and Ruby. He treasured being a Poppy to his grand pups Rex, Jet, Winston and Izzy and looked forward to spoiling them when coming back home for visits. It is without a doubt he was most proud to be able to attend his daughter’s wedding in May of 2022, and drunkenly sing karaoke with her into the wee hours of the morning.

A celebration of Jeff’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, January 11, 2023 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. We kindly suggest that everyone wear tie-dye to the funeral service, just the way Jeff would have wanted. Instead of sending flowers, whatever donations can be afforded should go to the Perry County Animal Rescue, PCoAR, 379 Sugar Run Rd, Millerstown, PA 17062 or any animal rescue of your choice.

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Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, January 10, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. (viewing 10:00 – 11:00 a.m.) from the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home

Violet Libhart 95, of Middleburg formerly of Columbia died Tuesday, January 3, 2023 at the Buffalo Valley Nursing Home where she had resided for the past three years. She was the wife of the late James C. Libhart, Sr. with whom she was married 56 years until his death in 2002. She was born in York County to the late Frank and Edna Nace Reuter.

A member of the Kinderhook E.C Church, she retired from Buffalo Valley Lutheran Village after 20 years of service where she was employed in the housekeeping department. Violet was very family oriented and enjoyed the company of her sisters shopping, traveling, and playing cards on a regular basis.

Surviving Violet are her daughters, Sharon wife of Dennis Morris; Linda wife of Ivan Varner; eight grandchildren; 17 great grandchildren; seven great great grandchildren; sisters, Irene Engle and Shirley Roberts also survive.  Her son, James C. Libhart, Jr., brothers, George and Paul Reuter and sisters, Jean Siegrist, Edna Hosfeld, Margaret Mowrer preceded her in death.

Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, January 10, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. (viewing 10:00 – 11:00 a.m.) from the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc. 519 Walnut St. Columbia PA 17512. Burial will follow in Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens. Memorial contributions in Violet’s memory may be made to the Kinderhook E.C. Church, 560 Kinderhook Road Columbia PA 17512.

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In her spare time, Dorothea enjoyed knitting and reading.

memorial service: Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc. 519 Walnut St. Columbia PA on Monday, January 9, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. There will be no viewing; however the family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.

Burial will follow in Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens.

Dorothea Hartman, 85 of Columbia, passed away unexpectedly of natural causes on Saturday, December 31, 2022 at her residence. She was the wife of the late Jere E. Hartman with whom she was married 52 years until his death in 2012. Born in Germany, Dorothea immigrated to the U.S in 1960.

She retired in 1989 after 20 years of service from the Susquehanna Glass factory where she was employed as a glass cutter. Dorothea was a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church, Columbia and volunteered at the Columbia Meals on Wheels. In her spare time, she enjoyed knitting and reading.

She is survived by her son, Stephen N. husband of Elaine Hartman, Nags Head NC and Krista wife of David Bryant, Columbia; four grandchildren, Kelli, Alexandra, Jared, Erik and six great grandchildren. Her brother Richard Ludwig of Germany also survives.

A memorial service will be held at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc. 519 Walnut St. Columbia PA on Monday, January 9, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. with the Rev. Mark S. Kopp, officiating. Burial will follow in Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens. There will be no viewing; however the family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Dorothea’s memory to Columbia Meals on Wheels, PO Box 391, Columbia PA 17512.

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Janice enjoyed crocheting, scrapbooking, metal detecting at the beach, reading, and doting on her family and friends; especially her grandchildren.

A memorial will be held on January 14, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. at the Evangelical Church of the Redeemer, 500 Pearl St, Lancaster, PA

Janice Lynn (Williams) Hughes went home to be with the Lord on December 24th, 2022. She was just shy of her fifty-ninth birthday. She was born on January 2nd, 1964 to Janet S. Williams and the late Robert J. Williams.

Janice is survived by her husband John L. Hughes, Jr. and three children, Mychele “Miki” Holliday, Justin Hughes, and Yolonda “Yoyo” Hughes. She is also survived by two grandchildren, Finnigan and Mackinleigh Holliday and three sisters, Stephanie Heinzman, Kim Trauger, and Marianne Windle. She was preceded in death by two brothers, Robert J. Williams III and Jeffrey C. Williams.

Janice was a 1981 graduate of McCaskey High School. She was a member of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of the Redeemer in Lancaster. Janice was devoted to family and friends and would give you the shirt off her back if she thought it would help you. She was the mascot at the age of 2 ½ for the Billette Marching Group. Janice enjoyed crocheting, scrapbooking, metal detecting at the beach, reading, and doting on her family and friends; especially her grandchildren.

A memorial will be held on January 14th, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. at the Evangelical Church of the Redeemer, 500 Pearl St, Lancaster, PA 17603. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to funeral expenses by calling 717-684-2370 or Gift of Life Donor Program, 401 N. 3rd. St., Philadelphia, PA 19123.

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On Thursday, October 13th, Mom completed her Earthly bucket list with her visit to the Holy Land and praying inside the tomb of the Risen Christ.

Myrle's children will receive friends and family from 10 to 11 AM at Columbia United Methodist Church, 510 Walnut Street, Columbia, Pennsylvania on Saturday, January 7, 2023. Funeral services will immediately follow at 11 AM.

Thereafter, Myrle's interment at Mountville Cemetery will be followed by a lunch reception at Myrle's home at 316 Hill Street, Mountville.

Myrle Elizabeth Rossi, 92, formerly of Columbia, peacefully passed away in her sleep on Christmas morning, Sunday, December 25th at her home of 53 years in Mountville Borough. Born in Columbia on January 8, 1930, Myrle was the loving daughter, and only child, of Harry and Hettie Dietz. Myrle shared 56 years of marriage with her devoted husband, Donald M. Rossi, before his passing on September 2, 2011.

Myrle grew up in and was a member of the old Columbia United Brethren Church and after its merger with the Methodist Church, continued as a member of the Salome United Methodist Church until 1997. Mom was a member of church's Chancellery Choir as a soprano and soloist for over 50 years. Mom was a devout Christian and believed in the promise of eternal salvation through the death and resurrection of Christ Our Lord. Mom supported the missionary work of Wycliffe Bible Translators in South and Central America. Myrle was also a former member of the Eastern Star and served as the secretary/treasurer for the Columbia chapter for several years in the early 1970's.

Mom and Dad worked hard their entire adult lives, passing on a strong work ethic to their children, Pamela Ann Neuroh, Donald Marlin Rossi, Jr, and Paul Anthony Rossi. Mom graduated, with distinction, from Columbia High School in 1948 and immediately took a position as a bank teller at the old Central Savings and Loan in Columbia. Mom then worked as an inspector at the now defunct Italian clothing maker Tidy for 13 years. Finally, Mom worked as the bookkeeper for the Columbia law firm Nikolaus & Hohenadel until her retirement in 1996 a position she thoroughly enjoyed working for a boss, Donald Nikolaus, she respected and admired.

Myrle was a dedicated member of the Republican Party, serving as the committeewoman for the GOP in Mountville for 12 years from 1986 to 1998. With only 1 exception, Mom voted in every primary and general election from 1951 to 2022. Mom reported she reluctantly voted for only 1 Democrat, Bob Casey, Sr. (never for the Jr.) in her entire life. Mom actively worked for the election of Ronald Reagan in the 1980 general election and enjoyed a pilgrimage to Reagan's Presidential Library in 2018. Having lived through the defeat of Fascist Europe and World Communism, Myrle understood that only Capitalism and limited government was consistent with preserving the freedom and prosperity we enjoy(ed) in America.

Mom enjoyed gardening, painting, travel, game-shows, animals and chocolate (of every variety). Myrle received routine compliments for her landscape designs and gardening skill. Myrle's artwork concentrated on landscape paintings in oil and acrylic mediums. In the early 2000's, Myrle's artwork was purchased via online open auctions by buyers in 7 different countries. While her favorite vacation spot was Ocean City, Maryland, Myrle's travel took her to 49 states (she refused to travel to Alaska) and 32 countries on 5 continents. On Thursday, October 13th, Mom completed her Earthly bucket list with her visit to the Holy Land and praying inside the tomb of the Risen Christ.

Myrle is survived by her three children, son-in-law Daniel Neuroh, daughter-in-law, Lisa Rossi, two grandchildren, Alicia Fleming and Nicholas Rossi and three great-grandchildren Jack, Alex and James Fleming of Willow Street.

Myrle's children will receive friends and family from 10 to 11 AM at Columbia United Methodist Church, 510 Walnut Street, Columbia, Pennsylvania on Saturday, January 7, 2023. Funeral services will immediately follow at 11 AM. Thereafter, Myrle's interment at Mountville Cemetery will be followed by a lunch reception at Myrle's home at 316 Hill Street, Mountville.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to a local Collie Rescue organization. Mom was devoted and loved all her collies (Lassie, Molly, Thatcher, Prague, Sydney, Ragnar and Tucson). Donations can be made to Collie Rescue of Central Pennsylvania, 263 Texaco Road, Mechanicsburg, PA 17050 (717) 766-2433 or Collie Rescue of Southeastern Pennsylvania, P.O. Box 493, Ambler, PA 19002, www.collierescueofsepa.info (for PayPal donations).

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Harry was known for his kind, gentle, and caring nature. He had a warm smile and a congenial chuckle that everyone loved.

Services for Harry will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, January 5, 2022 at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, 519 Walnut St, Columbia, PA 17512.

Visitation will be from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. on Wednesday, January 4, 2022 and also one hour prior to services on Thursday.

Burial will follow at Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens

Harry L. Keller, 93, of Wrightsville passed away on December 27, 2022. He was born in Columbia to the late Ray and Hester Leiphart Keller and was a lifelong resident of this area.

Harry attended the former Wrightsville High School and worked for many years with ITT Engineer Valve before his eventual retirement. Harry was known for his kind, gentle, and caring nature. He had a warm smile and a congenial chuckle that everyone loved. He will be missed greatly by his family and friends. As a child, Harry's father worked as the night watchman at Lauxmont Farms, which was still a working dairy farm at the time. While visiting, he could have all the ice cream and chocolate milk he wanted. This sparked his interest in Lauxmont Farms and his love for milk bottles, which he collected for many years. Harry enjoyed taking walks along Long Level and was known to be a bit of a German beer connoisseur. He was a lifelong follower and devoted fan of Army Football. For many years, he traveled to West Point frequently to attend games. He also closely followed Philadelphia college basketball, the Phillies, Flyers, and Eagles.

Harry leaves behind his wife of almost fifty-three years, Marsha Shaud Keller of Wrightsville; His half-sister Mary Smith of Wrightsville; his sister-in-law Sarah Keller of Whitehall, MD and numerous extended family. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two siblings, Geraldine Forry and Samuel Keller.

Services for Harry will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, January 5, 2022 at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, 519 Walnut St, Columbia, PA 17512. Visitation will be from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. on Wednesday, January 4, 2022 and also one hour prior to services on Thursday. Burial will follow at Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, please perform an act of kindness in Harry’s memory. Arrangements by the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc. Columbia/Landisville www.clydekraft.com

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Her family was most important to her throughout her entire lifetime.

Celebration of Life will be held at Highland Presbyterian Church, 500 E. Roseville Road, Lancaster PA 17601 on Saturday, January 28, 2023 at 11:00 a.m.

The family will receive friends at the church one hour prior to the service. In lieu

Jane Hinkle Stockdale passed away peacefully at Willow Valley Communities while surrounded by her family on December 11, 2022 after a lengthy illness. She was born in Columbia, PA on April 11, 1932. She was the first of two children born to the late John F. and Margaret (Cleland) Hinkle. She was the loving wife of Wendell B. Stockdale, Sr., with whom she celebrated their 68th wedding anniversary in June. Her family was most important to her throughout her entire lifetime.

Jane graduated from Columbia High School in 1950 and Hood College, Frederick, MD in 1954. At Hood, she was a member of the choir which performed Handel's Messiah every year with the U.S. Naval Academy choir, of which her future husband was a member. They met during the performance in 1951 and married in 1954 immediately after her college graduation.

In addition to being the consummate military wife and a 5-Star mother and grandmother, she also served as Executive Secretary and Assistant to the President at Hinkle Enterprises (Lancaster), Schreiber Wholesale (Lititz), and Luthercare Retirement Community (Lititz).

She was a long-time member of Highland Presbyterian Church where she sang in the choir for many years and served as President of the Highland Presbyterian Women's Club.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her first-born son, Wendell, Jr. in 2009. She is survived by her husband, her daughter, Janell Pentz (Donald) and her son, John Stockdale (Carole). Jane is also survived by her loving brother, John F. Hinkle, Jr., and his wife Patsy King Hinkle. She was the doting grandmother of 5 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Highland Presbyterian Church, 500 E. Roseville Road, Lancaster PA 17601 on Saturday, January 28, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. with the Rev. Anne Osbourne, officiating. The family will receive friends at the church one hour prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Willow Valley Communities Charitable Foundation, 100 Willow Valley Lakes Drive, Willow Street, PA 17584. Please indicate that it is for the "Memory Care Center."

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She was a voracious reader and loved spending time with her family especially her grandchildren and great grandchildren and cooking for them.

Funeral services: CLYde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc. 519 Walnut St. Columbia PA on Wednesday, December 28, 2022 at 2:00 p.m.

Friends may view one hour prior to the service.

Kathy M. Wright, 72 of Frenchville PA, formerly of Lancaster County died on December 19, 2022. She was the wife of Thomas R. Wright with whom she was married 53 years. Born in Lynchburg VA, she was the daughter of the late George W. and Katie Miller Moore.

Kathy graduate from Pequea Valley High School in 1968 and was employed for many years at the Educators Mutual Insurance Company, Lancaster. She was a voracious reader and loved spending time with her family especially her grandchildren and great grandchildren and cooking for them.

In addition to her husband are her sons, Richard Wright (Barb); Kevin Wright (Belinda); four grandchildren; five great grandchildren; sister Diane Graybill (Larry).

Funeral services will be held at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc. 519 Walnut St. Columbia PA on Wednesday, December 28, 2022 at 2:00 p.m. with the Rev. Mark S. Kopp, officiating. Friends may view one hour prior to the service.

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He was an avid hunter (as recently as this past deer season) and fisherman, enjoyed shooting archery, dancing, bowling, and rooting for the Phillies and the Fighting Irish of Notre Dame.

A Mass of Christian Burial: Tuesday, December 27, 2022 at 11:00 a.m. from St. Peter’s Catholic Church, 121 S. Second St. Columbia PA.

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

Family and friends may view at the church one hour prior to the mass.

John P. DiCostanzo, Sr., 87 of Columbia, passed away unexpectedly of natural causes on Tuesday, December 20, 2022. He was the husband of the late Audrey Hartman DiCostanzo with whom he was married 29 years until her death in 1989. He was born in Conoy Township to the late Andrea and Maryanne Florio DiCostanzo.

John proudly served his country in the U.S Army during the Korean War and retired after 33 years of service from the ITT Grinnell Corp. Columbia where he was employed as a machinist. John was a devoted Catholic and was a member of St. Peter’s Catholic Church, Columbia. In addition, he held memberships in the Knights of Columbus Council 2294; Fox Harbor Archers and the Columbia Fish and Game. He was an avid hunter (as recently as this past deer season) and fisherman, enjoyed shooting archery, dancing, bowling, and rooting for the Phillies and the Fighting Irish of Notre Dame.

Family was first and foremost to John. He loved the season of Christmas, especially tree decorating and cooking for his family.  A do-it-yourselfer, he took great pride in the appearance of his home and yard.

He is survived by his children, John P. DiCostanzo, Jr. (Kim); Angela A. Schaum (Craig); Jean M. Lutz (Nate); Andrew M. DiCostanzo (Maggie); eight grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren. The last of his immediate family he was preceded in death by his siblings, Ruth Groff, Mary Fisher, Carmelina Yingst, Josella DiCostanzo, Frank DiCostanzo, and Salvatore DiCostanzo.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, December 27, 2022 at 11:00 a.m. from St. Peter’s Catholic Church, 121 S. Second St. Columbia PA 17512 with the Rev. Augustine Joseph, Celebrant. Burial will follow in St. Peter’s Catholic Cemetery. Family and friends may view at the church one hour prior to the mass.

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She enjoyed gardening, crocheting gifts for others, and her special anniversary fishing trip to Alaska with her late husband.

celebration of Kaye’s life:11:00 a.m. on Friday, January 6, 2023 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.

She will be laid to rest beside her late husband at Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens

Kaye Louise Spiese, 77, of Carlisle passed away on December 13, 2022. She was born in Pittsburgh to the late Kenneth and Katherine Schnee Beecher.

Kaye was a graduate of Indiana University of Pennsylvania and was a high school math teacher for twenty years before becoming a bank teller until her eventual retirement. She enjoyed gardening, crocheting gifts for others, and her special anniversary fishing trip to Alaska with her late husband. Kaye was a loving mother, grandmother, and sister who adored her family and treasured spending time with them.

Kaye leaves behind her sons, David, husband of Nicole Spiese of Telford, PA, Micah Spiese of Aurora, CO; her grandson, Vincent Spiese of Telford, PA; two sisters, Jean Beecher of Johnstown, PA, Virginia Beecher of Connellsville, PA. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband Patrick Spiese in 2020.

A celebration of Kaye’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, January 6, 2023 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. She will be laid to rest beside her late husband at Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Keystone Opportunity Center, 104 N Main St, Souderton, PA 18964.

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A Celebration of Alphonse’s life will take place on Thursday, December 22, 2022, at 6:00 PM at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home in Columbia.

Alphonse E. Fischer, Jr., 72, of Marietta, passed away at home on Friday, December 16, 2022. Born in Columbia, he was the son of the late Alphonse E. Sr. and Catherine (Kauffman) Fischer.

Alphonse proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. He worked in maintenance at Anvil, from which he retired after 44 years. Alphonse loved the beach, and especially enjoyed visiting Myrtle Beach, SC. He was known as the “Neighborhood Dad”, and he volunteered his time as a softball coach and umpire. He liked to participate in car shows where he could proudly display his 1929 Model A Woody Wagon. He was a long time member of the American Legion in Marietta.

Alphonse is survived by his four children, Terry Weber, husband of Jackie; Tonya Kauffman, fiancé of Donald Vanpelt, Jr.; Alphonse Fischer, III; David Weber; his 10 grandchildren, and one great grandchild. He is also survived by all of his favorite brothers and sisters: Ronald, husband of Darlene (Griest); David, husband of Cindy (Waltz); James, husband of Linda (Clinton); Mildred, wife of Bernard Myers; Mary Catherine Hohman; Regina Harman; Deborah, wife of James Donnan; and Jean, wife of Robert Frisch. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two brothers, Jeffrey and Daniel, and one sister, Camille Woodley.

A Celebration of Alphonse’s life will take place on Thursday, December 22, 2022, at 6:00 PM at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home in Columbia. A viewing will take place one hour prior. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Wounded Warriors Project at P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, Kansas 66675-8516, or at woundedwarriorproject.org. Arrangements by Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Columbia/Landisville.

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There will be a viewing on Tuesday, December 20 from 10 to 11 a.m. at St Paul’s Missionary Baptist Church, 297 S. 5th Street, Columbia, PA 17512, following with the Celebration of Life service at 11 a.m. with Rev. Sonya Duncan officiating.

Robert J. Apple, Jr., 78, Columbia, PA answered his call to eternal rest on Tuesday, December 13, 2022 at Lancaster General Hospital. He was the loving husband of Amber (Edmond) Apple with whom he shared 56 years of marriage.

He was born in Danville, VA and raised in Lebanon, PA where he graduated from Lebanon High School. He was a proud Veteran that honorably served in the U.S. Army and retired from ITT Engineered Valves after 30 years. Robert was a member of St Paul’s Missionary Baptist Church, Columbia where the service will take place. He was a member for 55 years at the American Legion Post 0158 in Lebanon, PA. He enjoyed collecting calendars every year and ensuring all his family and friends received one, which is a token we will all miss. Robert was often called Bob or Apple, but most importantly Dad and Pappy.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his daughter Cynthia (Joey) McLeod, Virginia Beach, VA; son-in-law Kenneth Massey (Audria), Maryland; grandchildren Joelysa McLeod, Vanessa (Brian) Allen, Kenneth Massey, all of Maryland, Kyle Massey, California and D’Erik McLeod, Hawaii; great granddaughters Parker McLeod, Addison Massey and Averie Allen; as well as a host of many other loving family members and friends. He was preceded in death by his mother and father, Vesba and Robert Apple, Sr., and his daughter Adrienne Massey.

There will be a viewing on Tuesday, December 20 from 10 to 11 a.m. at St Paul’s Missionary Baptist Church, 297 S. 5th Street, Columbia, PA 17512, following with the Celebration of Life service at 11 a.m. with Rev. Sonya Duncan officiating. Interment will take place at Habecker's Mennonite Cemetery, Mountville. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to St. Paul’s Missionary Baptist Church. Funeral Services provided by Clyde Kraft Funeral Home, Inc., Columbia, PA.

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