His accomplished life was full of adversity and perseverance.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Burial will follow at Habecker Mennonite Cemetery.

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

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

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

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

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She enjoyed baking and had a witty sense of humor.

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

 

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

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

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

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

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Klaus loved family, food, and laughter.

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

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

 

Klaus Otto Opalka, 16 December 1933 - 17 May 2025

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Burial will follow at Habecker Mennonite Cemetery.

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

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

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

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

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

Blessings to All!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

riends may view one hour prior to the service.

Interment in Fairview Cemetery, Wrightsville.

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Services for Jim will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, May 16, 2025 at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, 519 Walnut St, Columbia, PA 17512.

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

Burial will be private and he will be laid to rest beside his son at Holy Trinity Catholic Cemetery.

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

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

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

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

Services for Jim will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, May 16, 2025 at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, 519 Walnut St, Columbia, PA 17512. The family will receive friends for visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. until service time. Burial will be private and he will be laid to rest beside his son at Holy Trinity Catholic Cemetery.

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

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

Mass of Christian Burial: 11:00 a.m. on Monday, May 12, 2025 at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 409 Cherry St, Columbia, PA 17512.

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

Burial will be private and he will be laid to rest with his son at Holy Trinity Catholic Cemetery.

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

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

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

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

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, May 12, 2025 at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 409 Cherry St, Columbia, PA 17512. The family will receive friends for visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. until service time. Burial will be private and he will be laid to rest with his son at Holy Trinity Catholic Cemetery. In Lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Our Lady of the Angels School, 404 Cherry St, Columbia, PA 17512 or Columbia Meals on Wheels, P.O. Box 391, Columbia, PA 17512.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Peter’s Catholic Church, 121 S. Second St., Columbia, PA 17512 on Monday, May 19th at 11:00 am with the Rev. Augustine Joseph,Celebrant. Burial will follow in St. Peter’s Catholic Cemetery. There will be no public viewing, however the family will receive friends one hour prior to the mass.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the St. Peter’s St. Vincent de Paul Society would be deeply appreciated.

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

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

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

Burial will follow in Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens.

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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She enjoyed visiting Stone Harbor with family.

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

 

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

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

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

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

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Anyone who met Tyler could agree he was very charismatic, witty, and intelligent.

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

 

Tyler John Dietrich, 33, of Lancaster area passed away on April 29, 2025. He was born in Lancaster to John and Tracy Dietrich and was a lifelong resident of this area. Tyler was a graduate of Penn Manor High School with the Class of 2010.

Life with Tyler was a true adventure. He was a self-taught expert on many subjects, especially all things involving wildlife and the ocean. He created and operated his own company, Sofishticated Aquatics, specializing in saltwater fish and coral reefs. A true animal lover, Tyler had a great respect for all living things and was an avid outdoorsman.

He enjoyed spending time in nature, oftentimes in his tree stand. He was a creative soul who grew up playing the cello and enjoyed photography. He had a great eye for capturing wildlife- with his camera, and his hands. He always had an adventurous, daring, and brave spirit.

Anyone who met Tyler could agree he was very charismatic, witty, and intelligent. He never shied away from meeting new people and leaving a lasting impression. Tyler however, could likely scare you with his many pyro-obsessed hobbies and risk-taking shenanigans.

As a loving son, brother, grandson, nephew, and uncle, Tyler adored his family and treasured spending time with them. Tyler will be truly missed by his parents, John Dietrich of New Providence, Tracy Dietrich of Lancaster; two sisters, Jenna Sohne, wife of Noah Sohne of Brooklyn, NY, Olivia Dietrich, partner of Jalita Boffman of Rockville, MD; a nephew, Kove Sohne of Brooklyn, NY; his grandfather, Ted, husband of Mary Schreiber of Columbia; numerous aunts and uncles, a few close members including- Brenda Cloud, Brian and Vivian Schreiber; cousins including Heather Hersh and Justin Schreiber.

Those who knew Tyler also knew of his special bond with his beloved cat, Kitty. She quite literally found him during one of his hunting trips, and they have been attached at the hip ever since. Tyler was a kind and good-hearted soul, and his memory will forever live in the hearts of many. Tyler’s family would like to ask that the next time you have a quiet moment in nature, to think of his spirit and the memories that you shared with him.

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

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She was a meticulous needleworker and seamstress and made stylish outfits for her daughters until they were grown.

celebration of Evelyn’s life will take place Monday, April 28, at noon in Sell Chapel on the Masonic Village campus, where she will also be inurned. 

 

Evelyn Bomgardner Martin, 94, died April 23 at Masonic Village, Elizabethtown.  After raising her family in Elizabethtown, she lived some years in York, Jacobus and Landisville before moving to the Village 11 years ago. She was born Evelyn Irene Eckert in Lawn, Pa., on Jan. 26, 1931, to Percy and Irene Eckert, who instilled in her a commitment to church and community. She played piano and organ as a longtime member of Lawn Evangelical Congregational Church, where she was baptized and confirmed, and later worked in the office and in other volunteer capacities at St. Paul's Episcopal Church in Columbia. She graduated from Hershey High School before attending business school in Harrisburg.  She raised four children almost single-handedly while working full time. She worked 17 years at what was then called Elizabethtown Crippled Children’s Hospital and earned certification in medical records in a correspondence course at night. She became director of medical records for York Memorial Hospital and earned a bachelor’s degree from Elizabethtown College at age 42.

She also worked various other jobs before retiring after she married Tom Martin of York in 2003.  She liked to travel and to read. She was an excellent cook and baker. She gardened and canned. She was a meticulous needleworker and seamstress and made stylish outfits for her daughters until they were grown. She learned to swim in her later years and won medals at the Senior Olympics in Lancaster.

 She is survived by Teresa Rousseau, wife of Bill Leukhardt, of Danbury, Conn.; Carol, wife of Dan Wiley, of Valencia, Pa.; Vicki, wife of James Nagle of Wytheville, Va.; Steve, Bomgardner, husband of Brenda, of Easton -- her children with her first husband; plus eight grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren, including a namesake and another soon to be born; and three nieces. She was predeceased by her parents, her husband Tom, her brothers Robert and Lloyd, and by her granddaughter Lauren Rousseau of Danbury, who was killed at Sandy Hook School. She was very proud of many family members who served in the military around the world during different conflicts, including her son and two grandsons who graduated from U.S. military academies.

A celebration of Evelyn’s life will take place Monday, April 28, at noon in Sell Chapel on the Masonic Village campus, where she will also be inurned. 

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Wilmer and his wife of 40 years, Pamella, shared a love of tennis, their beloved cats, live music, good food, and polka dancing.

A graveside service will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Friday, May 2, 2025 at Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens, 845 Laurel Hill Rd, Columbia, PA 17512.

 

Wilmer R. Wallace, 86, of Lancaster, passed away on Tuesday, April 22, 2025. Born in Lancaster and raised in York, he was the son of the late Wilmer R. Wallace, Sr., and Edna J. Wallace. Will was the devoted husband of Pamella K. Wallace, with whom he celebrated 40 years of marriage last fall. They shared a love of tennis, their beloved cats, live music, good food, and polka dancing.

As a young man, Will served in the U.S. Army in West Germany. He later graduated from Millersville State College and for 31 years taught fifth grade in the Columbia Borough School District. He had a lifelong love of sports and coached youth baseball, basketball, football, and even a season of soccer, a sport that was new to him at the time.

Will had a special passion for minor league baseball. As a teenager, he saw one of Brooks Robinson's first professional baseball games as a member of the York White Roses. He was also lucky enough to see Willie Mays play when the Trenton Giants came to York. Later as an adult, it wasn't unusual for Will to drive for hours to see a promising prospect play.

A loving father, Will pitched backyard whiffle ball games, made silver dollar pancakes, and happily paid the fees for overdue library books. As an adoring grandfather, he loved nothing more than to zoom and read stories out loud. His annual reading of "'Twas the Night Before Christmas" will be greatly missed. Will's humor, deep love of family, and occasional grumpiness will be profoundly missed by those who knew and loved him. He will never be forgotten.

 Will is survived by his loving wife, Pam; his children Nicole Wallace of Washington, D.C, and Oliver Wallace of Greenfield, Mass.; his granddaughter Lea (Joni) Wallace of Greenfield, Mass.; and his two furbuddies, TJ and Dusty.

A graveside service will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Friday, May 2, 2025 at Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens, 845 Laurel Hill Rd, Columbia, PA 17512.  In lieu of flowers, contributions to ORCA (Organization for the Responsible Care of Animals) or the Centerville Pet Rescue would be appreciated. 

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Harry’s hobbies were hunting, with his lifelong buddies in Sullivan and Potter Counties and coed softball where he made many friends throughout the years.

Times of celebration of Harry’s life will be held from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. on Friday, April 25, 2025 and Saturday, April 26, 2025 from 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. with military honors beginning at 11:00 a.m.

Attendees are asked to dress casual in jeans, t-shirts, or camouflage.

Both events will be at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, 519 Walnut St, Columbia, PA 17512.

 

Harry A. Frankhouser, 78, of Mount Joy, PA, passed away on April 17, 2025. Harry was the last of his family. Harry will be missed by his wife of thirty-three years Janis Frankhouser and he was the son of the late, Harry and Anna Mary Frankhouser. Harry was the last of three boys and with his twin brothers they were known as the Tom, Dick and Harry of the family.

Harry was a graduate of Hempfield High School and the North American School of Conservation. And proudly served in the U.S. Army as a power plant operator at Fort Greely, AK in Pacific & HQs. Co. and a diesel mechanic on train engines at the 715th rail battalion Fort Eustis, VA and also in the National Guard as a combat medic in the 103rd medical battalion.

Harry was a life member of Susquehanna Fire Co. (the Hambones) and a life member of West Hempfield Fire and Rescue holding different positions as a line office during the years. Harry graduated from the PA State Fire School I & II as an assistant instructor with many fire courses through the years.

Harry was an instructor for HACC teaching EMT and CPR classes throughout the county and also a class coordinator.  He received the Fireman of the Year Award in 1982 and the Provider of the Year Award from the Emergency Health Services Federation of the Southeastern District in 1997.

Harry worked various jobs throughout his life at Charles Chips, Fabral for 40 years, a bus driver and handy man (for Sally’s class) for S. June Smith, the Lancaster Barnstormers as a parking attendant, and for the Hempfield Rec. Center.

Harry’s hobbies were hunting, with his lifelong buddies in Sullivan and Potter Counties and coed softball where he made many friends throughout the years. He will really miss hunting with his son and grandson in Indiana; and he will miss his youngest son more then he will ever know. He will miss his furry pups Sheeba, Tori, Kasey, Xena, and Sully, they were his best buddies who cheered him up many times and will now get to meet them again at the rainbow bridge.

Times of celebration of Harry’s life will be held from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. on Friday, April 25, 2025 and Saturday, April 26, 2025 from 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. with military honors beginning at 11:00 a.m. Attendees are asked to dress casual in jeans, t-shirts, or camouflage. Both events will be at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, 519 Walnut St, Columbia, PA 17512.

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Sandy enjoyed crocheting, playing computer games and fishing in Lewes, DE.

Services for Sandra will be held for the convenience of the family.

 

Sandra L. Armstrong, 78, of Columbia, passed away on April 21, 2025. Born in Lancaster, she was the daughter of the late Benjamin and Betty Patton Armstrong.

A homemaker, Sandy graduated from Penn Manor High School and enjoyed crocheting, playing computer games and fishing in Lewes, DE.

She is survived by her children, Donna Armstrong; Michael Weiler; grandchildren, Todd, Steven, Melissa, Jolienne; siblings, Betty McMillian and John Armstrong.

Services for Sandra will be held for the convenience of the family.

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