She is retired from Donsco in Wrightsville, PA and is a lifetime member of American Legion Post 469.

Interment will be held at a later date at family's discretion, and celebration of life will be held at a later date.

 

Louise Fizer, 80, of Wrightsville, passed away peacefully on Sunday January 12, 2025, at home. Born on January 30,1944 in York, PA she was the daughter of the late Richard S. Ridinger and Cleopha M. Ridinger. She was the wife of the late Walter A. Fizer.

She is retired from Donsco in Wrightsville, PA and is a lifetime member of American Legion Post 469.

She is survived by her daughters Therese Melhorn of Elizabethtown, Mary Hershberger, wife of Larry,  of Wrightsville, Melissa Hinkle, companion of Larry Heim, of Wrightsville, and one late son Richard A. Fizer.

She is survived by a brother Richard L Ridinger, husband of Leah, and sister Lori Gearhart, wife of Dale. Preceded in death by brother Larry Ridinger.

She is also survived by 10 grandchildren and 14 Great grandchildren which she loved with all her heart.

Interment will be held at a later date at family's discretion, and celebration of life will be held at a later date.

---

Send a Condolence

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.

He enjoyed working on lawnmowers, listening to music, and playing his bongos and conga drum.

A celebration of Rit’s life will be held at later date and will be announced by his family.

 

Marvin Richard “Rit” Kenney, 80, of Columbia passed away on January 4, 2025 at the Lancaster Nursing Facility under hospice care. He was born in Columbia to the late Patrick, Sr. and Louise Choice Kenney and was a lifelong resident of Columbia.

Rit attended Columbia High School and worked at the Armstrong Ceiling Plant of Marietta until his retirement. He enjoyed working on lawnmowers, listening to music, and playing his bongos and conga drums. Rit was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and uncle who adored his family.

Rit leaves behind his wife of fifty-eight years Kathleen Jankans Kenney of Columbia; two children, Randa L., wife of the late Alan Moulden of York, Curtis L. Kenney of York; three grandchildren, Tyrell M. Romero, Dayvon M. Moulden, Jenayah N. Kenney; two sisters, Dorothy Noon of Lancaster, Bernice Hurst of Virginia; numerous nieces and nephews and a large extended family. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Richard T. Kenney; three brothers, Patrick Kenney, II, William “Metro” Kenney, and Dr. Chester L. Kenney.

A celebration of Rit’s life will be held at later date and will be announced by his family. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Hospice and Community Care, 685 Good Dr, Lancaster, PA 17601.

---

Send a Condolence

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.

Marty enjoyed traveling, playing cards, bird-watching and simply sitting on her porch to talk with neighbors.

A memorial service to celebrate her life will be held in the spring with burial at the Habecker Mennonite Cemetery in Manor Township.

 

Martha Myers Gerfin of Camp Hill, passed away Tuesday, January 7, 2025 at the age of 83, surrounded by her loving family.  “Marty” was born June 22, 1941 in Columbia, PA, daughter of the late Jacob Myers and Violet Moore Myers.

She was a graduate of Columbia High School and Millersville University with a degree in education. After teaching high school science, she began a career in the Pennsylvania Bureau of Vocational Rehabilitation where she became a manager in the central office in Harrisburg. In retirement, Marty enjoyed traveling, playing cards, bird-watching and simply sitting on her porch to talk with neighbors.  

She is survived by a son, Dale Gerfin husband of Nancy Gerfin of Kingsley, PA; and two grandchildren, Jesse and Rachael Gerfin. She was preceded in death by her brothers, Bob and Don and sisters, Joan and Kate. The family would like to thank Marty’s friends who supported her with love and care in her life and especially, her final years, including Kathy and Jeff, Yassar, Eric, Janice, Pastor Denny and Pastor Mira and so many more.

Arrangements are being made by the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home in Columbia. Messages of condolence may be made at their website www.clydekraft.com.  A memorial service to celebrate her life will be held in the spring with burial at the Habecker Mennonite Cemetery in Manor Township.  Memorial contributions may be made to the First United Methodist Church of Mechanicsburg.

---

Send a Condolence

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.

Gwen enjoyed crocheting, playing bingo, word searches, and gardening.

A celebration of Gwen’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, January 17, 2025 at Salem UCC, 324 Walnut St, Columbia, PA 17512. The family will receive friends for visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. until service time.

Burial will follow at Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens.

 

Gwendolyn “Gwen” Mae Bigler, 85, of Columbia went to be with her Lord and Savior on January 5, 2025. She was born in Columbia to the late Edward and Blanche Barnes and was a lifelong resident of Columbia.

Gwen was a graduate of Columbia High School with the Class of 1958 and worked several part time jobs all within Columbia and most recently as a bow string maker. She was a skilled seamstress who made clothing and Halloween costumes for her family. Gwen enjoyed crocheting, playing bingo, word searches, and gardening. She was a lifelong and active member of Salem United Church of Christ where she served in many roles including a Sunday school teacher, youth fellowship advisor, altar guild member, and more. She was also the set and costume designer for events like pageants and vacation bible school. Gwen was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and aunt who adored her family and treasured spending time with them.

Gwen leaves behind her three daughters, Julie Bigler of Columbia, Hilary, wife of Kyle Smith of Landisville, Gail, wife of Matt Killian of Columbia; four grandchildren, Matthew, Jillian, Chloe, Mia; two sisters, Kay Rigel of York, Cheryl Barnes of Columbia; numerous nieces and nephews and a large extended family. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of forty-five years, James W. Bigler in 2007 and four siblings.

A celebration of Gwen’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, January 17, 2025 at Salem UCC, 324 Walnut St, Columbia, PA 17512. The family will receive friends for visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. until service time. Burial will follow at Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Alzheimer’s Association, 225 N. Michigan Ave. Floor 17 Chicago, IL 60601.

---

Send a Condolence

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.

He was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed fishing and boating.

celebration of Bellmer’s life will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, January 25, 2025 at Columbia Christian Fellowship, 1290A Prospect Rd, Columbia, PA 17512.

The family will receive friends for visitation beginning at 12:00 p.m. until service time.

 

Richard Henry Bellmer, III, 36, of Marietta passed away on January 5, 2025. He was born in New Brunswick, NJ to Amy Dettinger and spent most of his life in Columbia.

Known to most as Bellmer, he was a graduate of Columbia High School with the Class of 2006. Active in youth and high school wrestling, Bellmer made it to the Eastern Nationals and had a signature move “the Double Arm Bar”.  He was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed fishing and boating. Bellmer was a loving son, brother, uncle, and friend who adored his family and treasured spending time with them.

Bellmer leaves behind his parents, Amy, wife of John Dettinger of Thomasville; three sisters, Angel, wife of Tim Attewell of Valley Glen, CA, Tara Kearns of Hanover, Ashley, wife of David Warburton of Mount Joy; eight nieces and nephews, Sophie, Madison, Andrew, Allison, Ella, Henry, Charlotte, and Hudson; his feline friend, Zoey; numerous aunts and uncles and a large extended family of many special lifelong friends.

A celebration of Bellmer’s life will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, January 25, 2025 at Columbia Christian Fellowship, 1290A Prospect Rd, Columbia, PA 17512. The family will receive friends for visitation beginning at 12:00 p.m. until service time. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Columbia Animal Shelter, 265 S. 10th St, Columbia, PA 17512 or www.columbiaanimalshelter.com.

---

Send a Condolence

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.

In Florida, Grace enjoyed fishing and boating with her family, but her heart brought her back to Columbia.

In honor of Grace’s final wishes there will be no formal services and any future services will be announced by her family.

 

Grace Elizabeth Sholly, 79, of Columbia passed away on January 5, 2025. She was born in Columbia to the late Clarence and Bessie Mae Brady and spent most of her life in Columbia.

Grace was a graduate of Columbia High School. Following graduation, she worked at the Columbia Borough Office before moving to Florida and becoming a homemaker. In Florida, Grace enjoyed fishing and boating with her family, but her heart brought her back to Columbia. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, and aunt who adored her family, especially her grandkids.

Grace leaves behind her daughter, Tammy, wife of Ricky Walden of Columbia; her son, Brian Sholly; three grandchildren, Joshua, Kirstie, and Matthew; three great grandchildren, Felicity, Lucas, and Elliott; five siblings, Earl Lowry, Jerry, husband of Susan Brady, Buddy, husband of Elaine Brady, Catherine King, and Barry Brady; numerous nieces and nephews and a large extended family. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband Leo Sholly in 2022 and seven siblings.

In honor of Grace’s final wishes there will be no formal services and any future services will be announced by her family.

---

Send a Condolence

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.

Dale was an avid Phillies fan!

graveside service in the Fairview Cemetery, Wrightsville PA on Friday, January 10, 2025 at 11:00 a.m.

 

Dale L. Hammer, of Wrightsville, passed away on January 5, 2025 one day before his 94th birthday. He was the husband of the late Olivene "El" Thomas Hammer with whom he was married 61 years until her death in 2012. A lifelong Wrightsville resident, he was the son of the late Paul and Thelma Houseal Hammer.

Dale retired in 1994 after 22 years of service from Donsco, Inc. where he worked as a pattern rigger and was an avid Phillies fan.

He is survived by his children, George Bayman (Deb); Jeanne McCarthy (late Charles); Steven Hammer (Donna); Michael Hammer (Kimberly); eight grandchildren; twelve great-grandchildren; ten great-great-grandchildren and sisters, Nancy Floyd and Lorraine Shovlin. He was preceded in death by his son, Alan Hammer, grandchildren, Jackie Hake, Steven Hammer, Jr. and siblings Joyce Ort and James Hammer.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend graveside service in the Fairview Cemetery, Wrightsville PA on Friday, January 10, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. with the Rev. Jerry Schmidt, officiating.

---

Send a Condolence

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.

Frank enjoyed history, walking, gardening, and most of all spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren.

A viewing will take place on Thursday January 9, 2025, from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. at Clyde Kraft Funeral Home, 519 Walnut St. Columbia, PA. The Holy Rosary will be recited at 6:30 p.m. 

On Friday, January 10, 2025, a Mass of Christian burial officiated by Fr. Mitzel will begin at 11:00 a.m. at Holy Trinity Catholic Church Columbia, PA. The family will receive family and friends starting at 10:00 a.m. prior to the Mass.

A burial with full military honors will follow at Holy Trinity Cemetery.

 

Francis H. Robillard Jr. “Frank” of Lancaster County, PA passed away surrounded by family on January 4, 2025. He was the devoted husband of 46 years to the late Rose Robillard and son of the late Kathryn & Francis Robillard Sr., Cortland, NY.

Frank graduated from Cortland High School with the Class of 1963.  He proudly served as a radioman in the U.S. Navy following completion of basic training and Radioman “A” school.  He served at the U.S. Naval Communication Station, Londonderry, Northern Ireland where he met and married Rose. He then served aboard the USS Ozark, Charleston, SC until departing the Navy with an Honorable Discharge.

Following the Navy, he completed a carpenter apprentice program and worked as a carpenter for 13 years. He studied computer programming at Franklin and Marshall College leading him to serve the U.S. Navy once again as a civilian. He worked as a Communications Specialist for the Navy Ships Parts and Control Center then a Computer System Programmer Analyst at the Fleet Material Support Center in Mechanicsburg, PA until his retirement.

Frank enjoyed history, walking, gardening, and most of all spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. He loved his family and will be deeply missed by all who loved him. He was a parishioner of Holy Trinity Catholic Church and served as Extraordinary Eucharist Minister.

He is survived by his daughter Suzanne Combs (Kevin) of Wrightsville, PA, grandson Major Corey Combs USAF (Jessica) and great-granddaughter Emmeline Rose of Las Vegas, NV. Son Sean (Jeanine), granddaughter Megan Bavery (Colton), great-grandson Easton and great-granddaughter Clara, granddaughter Kelly Embrey and great-granddaughter Willow, and grandson Brady all of Mooresville, NC.  His brothers David (Dianne) of Hockessin, DE, Charles (Beth) of Kenton, DE, and Duane (Mary) of Cortland, NY and his sisters Karen Pace (Nick), Patricia Galutz, Susan Root (Tink) all of Cortland NY, Kathy Stevens (John) of Woodstock, GA, and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by son James and brothers George, Robert and Thomas.

A viewing will take place on Thursday January 9, 2025, from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. at Clyde Kraft Funeral Home, 519 Walnut St. Columbia, PA. The Holy Rosary will be recited at 6:30 p.m.  On Friday, January 10, 2025, a Mass of Christian burial officiated by Fr. Mitzel will begin at 11:00 a.m. at Holy Trinity Catholic Church Columbia, PA. The family will receive family and friends starting at 10:00 a.m. prior to the Mass. A burial with full military honors will follow at Holy Trinity Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers please consider making donations in Frank’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or www.stjude.org, Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 409 Cherry St, Columbia, PA 17512, or Red Rose Veterans Honor Guard, Inc., P.O. Box 8601, Lancaster, PA 17604 or www.rrveteranshg.org.

---

Send a Condolence

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.

Ken was a fan of Philadelphia sports, and rooting for the Eagles and Phillies was his passion.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 AM on Saturday, January 11, 2025 at St. Peter’s Catholic Church at 121 S. Second St. Columbia, PA.

A celebration of life will follow immediately after the mass in the church parish center and guests are encouraged to wear Eagles green.

 

Kenneth J. Keifer, Jr., 70, of Columbia, passed away at his residence on Saturday, January 4, 2025. He was the husband of Diane Kramer Keifer with whom he was married 45 years. Born in Easton, PA, he was the son of the late Kenneth J. Keifer, Sr. and Anna Dashe Keifer.

Ken graduated from Wilson Borough High School, Class of 1973 and received his Bachelor’s Degree from Shippensburg University in 1977, where he was a member of Alpha Phi Omega. He retired after more than 40 years in industrial sales specializing in steel and laser cutting. Ken was a member of St. Peters Catholic Church, Columbia where he served as an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion. He was active member of the Knights of Columbus Council 2294 and served as Grand Knight from 2007 through 2009. He was also Fourth Degree Knight and a member of the Santa Maria Assembly 915.

Ken was a fan of Philadelphia sports, and rooting for the Eagles and Phillies was his passion. Over the years he attended many games and had an impressive collection of Eagles memorabilia. He also loved spending time at the beach with his family, especially in Ocean City, NJ.

In addition to his wife are his children, Jennie, wife of Scott Heydt; Trent Keifer and grandchildren, Carter and Mia Heydt. He was preceded in death by his twin sisters, Judy Hrymack and Janet Caflin.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 AM on Saturday, January 11, 2025 at St. Peter’s Catholic Church at 121 S. Second St. Columbia, PA. A celebration of life will follow immediately after the mass in the church parish center and guests are encouraged to wear Eagles green.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Eagles Autism Foundation at www.philadelphiaeagles.com/eaglesautismfoundation

---

Send a Condolence

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.

She enjoyed music and dancing and cooking while spending time with her friends and family.

A celebration of Sally’s life will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, January 11th at Columbia Church, 510 Walnut Street, 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 at Millersville Mennonite Cemetery at a later date .

 

Sally Ann (Ritchey) Trimble, 69, of Columbia went to be with her Lord and Savior on January 2, 2025. She was born in Lancaster to the late Eugene, Sr. and Emalene Chalfant Ritchey and was a lifelong resident of this area.

Sally attended and graduated from Lancaster Catholic High School and was the lead cook with Brethren Village. She enjoyed music and dancing and cooking while spending time with her friends and family. Sally adored her family and will be missed for her unique fashion and jewelry sense and her witty sense of humor.

Sally leaves behind her husband Robert Trimble, Jr. of Columbia; two children, Shane Trimble, companion of Jess Yingst of Columbia, Stacey Dubé of Lancaster; two grandchildren, Isabella and Bryan Trimble of Columbia; five siblings, Eugene, Jr., husband of Theresa Ritchey of East Troy, WI, Ann Louise Ritchey, wife of the late Joseph Beauregard of Wareham, MA, Lori Ann Ritchey, companion of Drew Mora of Rockaway, NJ, James, husband of Suzanne Ritchey of Lancaster, Jody, wife of Thomas Bucher of Mount Joy; numerous nieces and nephews and many friends. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her son Bryan Richard Smith.

A celebration of Sally’s life will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, January 11th at Columbia Church, 510 Walnut Street, 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 at Millersville Mennonite Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Pennsylvania SPCA Lancaster Center, 848 S. Prince St, Lancaster, PA 17603.

---

Send a Condolence

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.

Sally loved taking trips to Wildwood and spending time with her family.

Mass of Christian Burial: 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, January 15, 2025 at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 409 Cherry St, Columbia, PA 17512. The family will receive friends for visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. until service time.

Burial will follow at Holy Trinity Catholic Cemetery.

 

Sara A. “Sally” (Pelen) Young of Marietta, passed away on Monday, December 30, 2024, peacefully surrounded by her loving family. She was the daughter of the late John N. and Phyllis (Shortlidge) Pelen.

Sally loved taking trips to Wildwood and spending time with her family. She was a member of Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Columbia.

Surviving is her husband, Orville R. Young, with whom just celebrated 55 years of marriage in November; a daughter, Jane wife of Bruce Murray of Columbia and Jon husband of McKensay Young of Marietta; four grandchildren and three great grandchildren; and brothers, Robert “Buzz” husband of Frances Pelen of Columbia and Thomas husband of the late Dawn Pelen of Millersville; and many nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother Donald “Nip” Pelen.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, January 15, 2025 at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 409 Cherry St, Columbia, PA 17512. The family will receive friends for visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. until service time. Burial will follow at Holy Trinity Catholic Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Hospice and Community Care, 685 Good Dr, Lancaster, PA 17601 or Holy Trinity Catholic Church.

---

Send a Condolence

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.

She was a loving and dedicated wife and mother, sister and friend.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, December 30, 2024 at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc., 519 Walnut Street, Columbia, PA 17512 beginning at 11:00 a.m.

A viewing will be held at 10:00 a.m. prior to the service.

Interment will follow to ironville cemetery. 

 

Shirley Weber, 89, left this life to be with her Lord and Savior on Saturday, Dec. 21, 2024 at Hospice and Community Care.

She was a loving and dedicated wife and mother, sister and friend. 

She is survived by her husband of 66 years, Raymond; son Joseph (Linda); and daughters Sherry Rousseau (Jerry) and Kimberly Chaney (Douglas).  Also surviving are five grandchildren: Steven Weber, Jennifer Diehl, Kelley Scheirer, Kori Chaney and Sarah Pauley; four great grandchildren: Riley and Charlotte Diehl, Nolan Scheirer and Cierra Weber as well as three sisters, Jaqueline Buckwalter, Joan Miller and Barbara Taylor. 

She was preceded in death by a son, Bradley; three brothers, Grant, Carl and David Floyd and a sister, Florence Wissler. 

Funeral services will be held on Monday, December 30, 2024 at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc., 519 Walnut Street, Columbia, PA 17512 beginning at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Jerry Schmidt, officiating.  A viewing will be held at 10:00 a.m. prior to the service.  Interment will follow to Ironville Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Hospice & Community Care, 685 Good Drive, Lancaster, PA  17601.

---

Send a Condolence

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.

He enjoyed socializing with people and was an avid Green Bay Packers fan.

A celebration of Michael’s life will be held on February 22 2025 from 12-4 at the Columbia Foresters’ of America, 201 Locust St, Columbia, PA 17512.

 

Michael A. “Dig-It” Swift, 73, of Marietta passed away on December 16, 2024. He was born in Lancaster to the late Thomas C Swift Sr and Marie Mauro and was a lifelong resident of this area.

Michael attended McCaskey High School and proudly served in the United States Marine Corps. Following his service, Michael was a truck driver for Armstrong World Industries and Penn Dot before his eventual retirement. He enjoyed socializing with people and was an avid Green Bay Packers fan.

Michael was a lifetime member of Columbia Foresters’ of America, The Owl’ s, Susquehanna Beneficial and Social Association, Lancaster American Legion Post #34, Mountville VFW Post 8757, Susquehanna Beneficial Club, American Legion Post 466, Sons of the American Legion Post 34, Rooster Social Club York, Dela-Ches Fishing Association and the AMVETS. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, and uncle who adored his family, especially his granddaughters.

Michael leaves behind his sons, Bradley, husband of Kirsten Kreider of Wrightsville, Jerry Kreider of Marietta, Christopher, husband of Stephanie Fiely of Titusville; three granddaughters, Aubrey, Karley, and Marisa Kreider; six siblings, J. Vincent Swift, Susan, wife of Tony Costa, Antoinette Williams, Tom Swift, Jr., Brian, husband of Lois Swift, Jeffrey, husband of Holly Swift; numerous nieces and nephews and manyfriends. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife Melissa Rose Swift in 2019.

A celebration of Michael’s life will be held on February 22 2025 from 12-4 at the Columbia Foresters’ of America, 201 Locust St, Columbia, PA 17512. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Veterans charities.

---

Send a Condolence

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.

Kelly enjoyed antiquing.

Services for Kelly will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, December 23, 2024 at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, 519 Walnut St, Columbia, PA 17512. The family will receive friends for visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. until service time.

Burial will follow at Silver Spring Cemetery

 

Kelly Jean Kotch, 63, of Columbia passed away on December 18, 2024. She was born in Columbia to the late Eugene and Shirley Sholly Graybill and was a lifelong resident of Columbia.

Kelly attended and graduated from Columbia High School and proudly served in the United States Army. Following her service, she worked in production with AMP, Wilbur Chocolates, RR Donnelly, and Burnham Boilers. Kelly enjoyed antiquing and was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and aunt who adored her family and treasured spending time with them, especially her great great grandniece, Roux.

Kelly leaves behind her husband and companion of eighteen years Michael Kotch of Columbia; her son, Michael, husband of Jennifer Graybill of Elizabethtown; step daughter, Amanda, wife of Zack Black of Johnstown; six grandchildren; two siblings, Deborah, wife of Scott Vieira of Potter County, Pete, II, husband of Tracy Graybill of Columbia; niece, Jodi Lynn, wife of Daniel Lewis of Columbia; numerous nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her step son, Michael Kotch, Jr.

Services for Kelly will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, December 23, 2024 at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, 519 Walnut St, Columbia, PA 17512. The family will receive friends for visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. until service time. Burial will follow at Silver Spring Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Ann B. Barshinger Cancer Institute, 2102 Harrisburg Pike, Lancaster, PA 17601.

---

Send a Condolence

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.

Henry was an outdoorsman who loved being on the Susquehanna River and enjoyed hunting, fishing, and crabbing.

In honor of Henry’s final wishes there will be no services and any future services will be announced by his family.

 

Henry Lee Bryant, Sr., 77, of Marietta passed away surrounded by his family on December 17, 2024. He was born in Marietta to the late Samuel, Sr. and Lillian Bryant and was a lifelong resident of this area.

Henry attended and graduated from Donegal High School and proudly served in the United States Marine Corps. Following his service, he worked as a molder with New Jersey Shell until his eventual retirement. Henry was an outdoorsman who loved being on the Susquehanna River and enjoyed hunting, fishing, and crabbing. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother, and uncle who adored his family and treasured spending time with them.

Henry leaves behind four daughters, Sue, wife of Shawn Eck of York, Candy Lee of Dover, Tassi, wife of James Murphy of Marietta, Vikki Bryant of York; nine grandchildren and six great grandchildren; two brothers, David, husband of Jane Bryant of Columbia, Samuel, husband of Shirly Bryant of Marietta; numerous nieces and nephews and a large extended family. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Vickie Bryant in 2021; a son, Henry Lee Bryant, Jr.; six siblings, Gladys Hershey, Evelyn Hasselbach, Nancy Gerber, Irene Bretz, Robert Bryant, Sr., and  Donald Bryant Sr..

In honor of Henry’s final wishes there will be no services and any future services will be announced by his family. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, KS 66675-8516 or Alzheimer’s Association, 225 N. Michigan Ave. Floor 17 Chicago, IL 60601.

---

Send a Condolence

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.

She enjoyed sewing, quilting, baking, puzzles, Jeopardy and had a green thumb.

Memorial service to be held January 4,2025 at 12:00pm at the Sell Chapel at Masonic Home in Elizabethtown,Pa followed by an hour of fellowship in the parlor.

 

Juanita M. Bender Hildebrand Keesey entered into rest with her Lord November 14,2024. She was born September 17,1932 in Custer, Montana to Arthur Larue Bender and Helen Sophia Naumann. In 1942 Juanita was adopted by The Hildebrands in Illinois.

She graduated from William Penn Sr High School, went on to attend West Chester University and graduated from Dickinson College with an education degree in history. Juanita began teaching in the York Suburban school district. She married David E.Keesey in 1955 and left teaching to raise her family. Once her children had grown she returned to substitute teaching for Eastern York SD,Columbia SD and York School of Technology.

Juanita overcame adversity throughout her childhood and was able to reconnect with her birth family which gave her great joy.  She was past matron in the Order of the Eastern star and was an unassuming servant in caring for others. Her love of learning and teaching was at her very core. As an avid reader she continued learning and sharing what she learned to the end. Juanita received and reciprocated love and care from the Masonic Home in Elizabethtown, Pa. She enjoyed sewing, quilting, baking, puzzles, Jeopardy and had a green thumb.

Juanita leaves behind her daughters Lynn Totten and husband Barry,Kathryn Fisher and husband John and Melanie McWilliams and her husband Ryan, along with her 7 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren,whom she attentively loved, her brother Butch and her nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her husband (married 64 years), her oldest daughter Cindy, parents and step parents, her sisters Paula, H. Caryl,Ann and brother Arthur.

Memorial service to be held January 4,2025 at 12:00pm at the Sell Chapel at Masonic Home in Elizabethtown,Pa followed by an hour of fellowship in the parlor.

In lieu of flowers please contribute to the Masonic Hospice and/or Masonic Charities Elizabethtown, Pa 17022.

---

Send a Condolence

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.

Richie was an old soul with a heart of gold who went out of his way to make sure his family and friends got together and were taken care of.

celebration of Richie’s life will be held from 12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, December 22, 2024 at Rose’s Deli and More, 13 N. 4th St, Columbia, PA 17512.

 

Richard Michael Floyd “Richie”, 25, of Columbia, passed away on December 11, 2024. He was born in Lancaster to Richard and Shelley Floyd and was a lifelong resident of this area.

Richie was a graduate of Penn Manor High School with the Class of 2016. He worked most recently with Smith’s Hotel and Rose’s Deli and More. Richie was an old soul with a heart of gold who went out of his way to make sure his family and friends got together and were taken care of. He loved the Baltimore Ravens, old cars and movies, but above all loved his family and treasured spending time with them.

Richie leaves behind his parents, Shelley Floyd of Columbia, Richard S. Floyd of Lancaster; four siblings, Nathan Johnson of Tennessee, Anthony Betz of Landisville, Matthew Floyd of Columbia, Kailey Floyd of Columbia; two nephews, Asher and Christopher Betz of Landisville; a large extended family and many friends. He was preceded in death by his grandmother, Deborah Bower.

A celebration of Richie’s life will be held from 12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, December 22, 2024 at Rose’s Deli and More, 13 N. 4th St, Columbia, PA 17512. The family wishes that attendees may drop in anytime between these hours.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Epilepsy Foundation of Eastern Pennsylvania, 919 Walnut St, Ste 700, Philadelphia, PA 19107.

---

Send a Condolence

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.

Patsy was a kind and genuine “ray of sunshine” to those who knew her well and to strangers meeting her for the first time.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a memorial service on Saturday, December 14, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. from Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church, 85 Brandt Boulevard, Landisville, PA  17538.

LIVESTREAM OF FUNERAL SERVICES OF PATSY KING HINKLE

 

Patsy King Hinkle, 90, of Columbia, PA, went to be with the Lord on December 5, 2024. She was born on May 20, 1934, in Red Lion, PA, and was the only child and pride and joy of her parents, the late Olga Fishel King and Elwood Jacob King. She was the loving wife of John Forry HinkleJr. with whom she celebrated her 61st wedding anniversary in May.

Patsy was extremely proud of her two children, her son, John F. Hinkle III (Sarah) of Frankford, DE, and Jill Hinkle Spellman (Kevin) of Westfield, NJ. The greatest source of joy in her life was her grandchildren: Benjamin Hinkle (Samantha), Madelyn Underwood (Benjamin), Luke Spellman, and John (Jack) Spellman and her great-grandsons, Hayes Underwood and Grayson Hinkle. She is survived by two cousins, Marilyn Reiber, Dallastown, PA, and Gloria Snelbaker, Mount Wolf, PA.

Patsy graduated from Red Lion High School in 1952. She received a degree in art education from Indiana State Teachers College (now Indiana University of Pennsylvania) in 1956. Patsy taught art in the former Lancaster Township School district at James Buchanan Elementary School, Burroughs Elementary School and Lancaster Township Junior High School. She loved teaching and interacting with her students.

After deciding to stay at home to raise her children, Patsy was very involved in PTO functions at Taylor Elementary School in Columbia, and she held the position of PTO president while her children attended Lancaster Country Day School in Lancaster, PA. She enjoyed teaching Sunday School at First English Lutheran Church in Columbia, assisting with Vacation Bible School, attending activities for the Columbia Women’s Club, and offering Friday night art lessons for the children in the neighborhood.

In the early 80s, Patsy opened the Gift Shoppe at Hinkle’s within Hinkle’s Pharmacy in Columbia, and thoroughly enjoyed every part of this experience from the buying trips in NYC, to the daily interaction with her loyal customer base, while at the same time being able to exercise her artistic eye and flair for design in her displays and selection of one-of-a-kind gifts and accessories.

Patsy cherished spending her summers in Avalon, NJ, and she thoroughly enjoyed dining, shopping, afternoons at the beach, and playing word games by the pool. Patsy was a kind and genuine “ray of sunshine” to those who knew her well and to strangers meeting her for the first time. She had an amazing ability to be able to speak to anyone.

Patsy was a long-time member of the former First English Lutheran Church in Columbia, and Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church in Landisville, PA.

A private viewing and burial service will be held at the convenience of the family. Relatives and friends are invited to attend a memorial service on Saturday, December 14, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. from Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church, 85 Brandt Boulevard, Landisville, PA  17538 with Pastor Timothy Seitz-Brown, officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to VisionCorps, 244 North Queen Street, Lancaster PA, 17603, or Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church, 85 Brandt Boulevard, Landisville PA, 17538.

---

Send a Condolence

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.

Dennis loved the outdoors, hunting and fishing, fly tying and keeping an immaculate yard.

A service of remembrance will be held at Wrightsville Assembly of God, 365 Orange St., Wrightsville, PA 17368 on Saturday, December 14, 2024 at 3:30 p.m. with visitation beginning at 3:00 p.m.

 

Dennis E. "Mouse" Bigler, 73 of Marietta, passed away on December 3, 2024 at the Penn State Lancaster Medical Center. Born in Columbia, he was the son of the late Fred W. Jr. and Anna Mae Koser Bigler.

He retired in 2011 from R.R. Donnelley after 11 years of service and was previously employed for 32 years at Armstrong World Industries. Dennis loved the outdoors, hunting and fishing, fly tying and keeping an immaculate yard. He also enjoyed spending time with his buddies at Penn National.

He is survived by his faithful partner of 54 years, Mary Bigler and his daughter, Dae, wife of Aaron McNatt, Wrightsville, their children Morgan, Macy and Mallie and a brother, Ronald Bigler of Marietta.

A service of remembrance will be held at Wrightsville Assembly of God, 365 Orange St., Wrightsville, PA 17368 on Saturday, December 14, 2024 at 3:30 p.m. with visitation beginning at 3:00 p.m.

---

Send a Condolence

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.

Jim enjoyed boating and golfing with the Monday Group from the Elks.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, December 6, 2024 at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 409 Cherry St, Columbia, PA 17512.

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

Burial will follow, and he will be laid to rest with his late wife, at Holy Trinity Catholic Cemetery.

 

James F. Roeser, 91, of Mountville passed away on December 1, 2024. He was born in Columbia to the late Carl, Sr. and Beata Roeser and was a lifelong resident of this area.

Jim was a graduate of Lancaster Catholic High School and served in the United States Navy. Following his service, he held positions with the federal government, the former Trojan Yacht, and Wyeth Labs until his eventual retirement. Jim was a faithful member of Holy Trinity Catholic Church where he was an Extra Ordinary Minister and volunteer with their annual Fasnacht fundraiser.

He was also a member of Knights of Columbus, 4 th Degree Santa Maria Assembly and lifetime member of Columbia VFW #2435, Columbia Beneficial, Columbia-Middletown Elks #1074, and Abel-Poff Leitheiser American Legion #469. Jim enjoyed boating and golfing with the Monday Group from the Elks.

Jim leaves behind his son, Donald Miller, husband of Jim O’Neill of Cathedral City, CA; Three siblings, Thomas Roeser of Columbia, Mary Ann Gray of Greenville, NC, Lucy Fox of Columbia; numerous nieces and nephews and a large extended family. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife Loretta in 2016; daughter Melanie Strohm; four siblings, Anita Grab, Josetta Spiese, Carl Roeser, Jr., and Elizabeth Horn.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, December 6, 2024 at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 409 Cherry St, Columbia, PA 17512. The family will receive friends for visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. until service time. Burial will follow, and he will be laid to rest with his late wife, 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.

---

Send a Condolence

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.