Dave loved to make people laugh and his sense of humor will be missed by everyone who knew him.

A Service of Remembrance:Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc., 519 Walnut St., Columbia, PA 17512 beginning at 11:00 AM on Thursday July 17, 2025.

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

David K. "Dave" Leibfried, 64 of Wrightsville, passed away peacefully on Saturday July 5, 2025. He was the husband of Kim Marley Leibfried with whom he was married 37 years. Born in Columbia, he was the son of the late Paul A. and Florence Hilliar Leibfried.

He retired in 2023 from Universal/Westport Axel. The company changed names and locations over the years and Dave worked his way up to the position of Engineering Specialist. He enjoyed his work and the people he worked with building frames and axels for Mack Trucks for 37 years.

He was a member of the Wrightsville Social Club, Columbia-Middletown B.P.O.E #1074, Foresters of America, Columbia Fraternal Association and the American Legion. Dave enjoyed spending time with family and friends fishing and boating on the river and hunting at Toe Hill or other friends hunting camps. He also loved deep sea fishing. He enjoyed watching football, Penn State Wrestling and the Phillies. Dave loved to make people laugh and his sense of humor will be missed by everyone who knew him.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his brother Bryan Leibfried. His brother Skip preceded him in death.

A Service of Remembrance will be held at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc., 519 Walnut St., Columbia, PA 17512 beginning at 11:00 AM on Thursday July 17, 2025. There will be no viewing, however the family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. Kindy omit flowers. Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice and Community Care, PO Box 4125, Lancaster, PA 17604 or at: www.hospiceandcummunitycare.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.

She enjoyed traveling, especially cruising, spending time in the mountains of Huntington and Potter Counties and keeping her family up to date, sending cards, letters and her annual Christmas letter.

Funeral services will be held from the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc. 519 Walnut St., Columbia, PA on Friday, July 11, 2025 at 10:00 AM. Family and friends may view one hour prior to the service.

Burial will follow in Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens.

JoAn E. Siegrist, 71 of Columbia, passed away on Saturday, July 5, 2025 at the Lancaster General Hospital. She was the wife of Curtis E, Siegrist with whom she was married 54 years. Born in Dyersburg, TN she was the daughter of the late Grover Cleveland and Willie Von Taylor Helton.

JoAn retired in 2022 after 20 years of service from M&M Mars, Elizabethtown where she was employed as a machine operator. She was a member of the Susquehanna Grace Community Church, Wrightsville. She enjoyed traveling, especially cruising, spending time in the mountains of Huntington and Potter Counties and keeping her family up to date, sending cards, letters and her annual Christmas letter.

In addition to her hand are her children, Josie Lefever (Bob); Joshua Siegrist (Mandy) ; Doug Siegrist (Nicole); Chris Siegrist (fiancé Deniz); grandchildren, Sebastian, Seth, Tanner, Colton, Jaden and Jacob; great-grandchildren, Rilynn, Cooper, Kaden, Kenna, Briggs, Baylor, Lainey and Weston; siblings, Grover, Ben, John, Kathy, Michael, Larry, Lynn, Gary, Aubrey and Lucy. Her brother Wayne and sister Sharon preceded her in death.

Funeral services will be held from the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc. 519 Walnut St., Columbia, PA on Friday, July 11, 2025 at 10:00 AM with Pastor Gordi Mcilroy, officiating. Burial will follow in Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens. Family and friends may view one hour prior to the service.

If desired, memorial contributions may be made to the Ann B. Barshinger Cancer Institute.

---

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 playing bingo, Pokémon Go, and was an avid Philadelphia Eagles fan.

A celebration of Crystal’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 3, 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.

She will be laid to rest at Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens at a later date

 

Crystal L. Kinard, 47, of Wrightsville passed away surrounded by her family on June 27, 2025. She was born in Columbia to the late John and Judy Montgomery Kinard and was a lifelong resident of this area.

Crystal was a graduate of Eastern York High School with the Class of 1995 where she played tuba in the Marching Knights. She went on to graduate from Thadeus Stevens College of Technology earning a degree in computer aided drafting. Most recently Crystal worked in management with Turkey Hill. She enjoyed playing bingo, Pokémon Go, and was an avid Philadelphia Eagles fan. Crystal adored her family and treasured spending time with them. She will be remembered for her endearing and fun-loving smile.

Crystal leaves behind her son, John Kinard of Wrightsville; four siblings, Edward Mull of Mount Joy, Melissa, wife of Randall Eaton of Airville, Brenda Thomas, fiancé of Toby Smith of Delta, Lisa Kinard of Wrightsville; her aunt Peg Kinard of Wrightsville; seven nieces and nephews, Kristen, Samantha, Joseph, Tiffany, Ryan, Taylor, Gavin, and other grand nieces and nephews; longtime friend and father to her son Albert Miller; canine companion, Justice. She was preceded in death by her parents.

A celebration of Crystal’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 3, 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. She will be laid to rest at Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens at a later date. 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.

Suzanne K. Blumenschein, 75 of Mount Joy, formerly of Columbia, passed away on Wednesday, June 25, 2025, at Hospice and Community Care. She was the wife of Brian L. Blumenschein with whom she was married 24 years. Born in Columbia, she was the daughter of the late John K. and Dorothy Sheckart Deverter.

Sue graduated from Columbia High School in 1968 and retired in 2020 after 40 years from the Dyer Company where she was employed as a bookkeeper. She was a longtime member of Zion United Church of Christ, Marietta and served on the church finance committee. Sue enjoyed cooking for her family and trips to Ocean City, MD and Inner Harbor. She also loved her dog, Cole.

In addition to her husband is her sister-in-law, Suzanne Vitatoe (Dean); cousins, Bud McCarty (Kathy), Pat Schauren (Joe), Diane Yohe (Bud) and Julie Kauffman.

The family would like to thank the staff at Hospice and Community Care and the VAD Clinic Team for the excellent care afforded to Suzanne.

Graveside services will be held on Wednesday, July 2, 2025, at 11:00 AM in Habecker Mennonite Cemetery, 451 Habecker Church Road, Lancaster PA 17603 with Pastor Dan Shahan, officiating.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Suzanne's memory to the American Heart Association.

Sue enjoyed cooking for her family and trips to Ocean City, MD and Inner Harbor.

Graveside services will be held on Wednesday, July 2, 2025, at 11:00 AM in Habecker Mennonite Cemetery, 451 Habecker Church Road, Lancaster PA 1760.

---

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.

Carolyn enjoyed knitting, cooking and baking, and maintaining her beautiful rose garden.

a MASS OF CHRISTIAN BURIAL: tUESDAY, JULY 1, 2025 AT 11:00 AM FROM HOLY TRINITY CATHOLIC CHURCH. VISITATION TO BEGIN AT 10:00 AM.

BURIAL WILL FOLLOW IN HOLY TRINITY CATHOLIC CEMETERY.

Carolyn R. Braas, 92 of Columbia passed away on June 25, 2025. She was born in Columbia to the late Aloysius, Sr. and Caroline Smith Droege and was a lifelong resident of this area.

Carolyn was a graduate of Lancaster Catholic High School with the Class of 1951 and worked as a secretary with ITT Grinnell, Wrightsville Valve, Schick, LGH, and the former Columbia Hospital before her retirement in 2003. She loved playing the piano and was a gifted seamstress who made many clothes for herself and her children. Carolyn enjoyed knitting, cooking and baking, and maintaining her beautiful rose garden. She also loved traveling to Philadelphia, Texas, and Florida to visit family and especially visiting the beaches of Wildwood and Cape May, NJ. Carolyn was a lifelong and faithful parishioner of Holy Trinity Catholic Church where she held various positions in the Altar Rosary Society and as a volunteer with the annual fasnachts fundraiser among many other Holy Trinity functions. She was also active in the Knights of Columbus Ladies Auxiliary. Carolyn was proud of her awards including Mother of the Year at Sacred Heart School, Volunteer for Cystic Fibrosis pin for fifteen plus years of service, and Majority Inspector for Board of Elections, 4th Ward for over twenty years – an elected position. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, and aunt who adored her family and treasured spending time with them.

Carolyn leaves behind five children, William C., III, husband of Mary Kay Braas of Mansfield, TX, Mary Ann Gordon of Columbia, Caroline R. Braas, companion of Ray Pineiro of Philadelphia, Joseph M. Braas of Columbia, Stephen M., husband of Joey L. Braas of Columbia; six grandchildren, Lisa (Rosa), Michael, Courtney, Stephen, Jr. (Kiara), Austin, and Meghan; three great grandsons, Andrew, Carter, and Cameron; a brother, Thomas Droege of Lancaster; her brother-in-law Thomas, husband of  Bonnie Lee Braas of Lancaster; numerous nieces and nephews and a large extended family. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of forty-two years, William C. Braas, Jr. in 1999 and two brothers, Aloysius W. Droege, Jr. and Leonard Droege.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, July 1, 2025 at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 409 Cherry St, Columbia, PA 17512. Father Mark Wilke will officiate. The family will receive friends for visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. until service time. Burial will follow and she will be laid to rest with her late husband at Holy Trinity Catholic Cemetery. Carolyn’s family would like to thank the staff of Abbeyville Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation Center for their loving care for the past three years and Sr. Anna Cosgrave for her weekly visits and sharing communion. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Our Lady of the Angels School, 404 Cherry St, Columbia, PA 17512 or an animal rescue organization of one’s choice.

---

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.

Mary enjoyed being a homemaker, keeping a tidy house, cooking large holiday dinners and making her famous peanut butter eggs. 

A celebration of Mary’s life will be held at Newtown United Methodist Church in Columbia and will be announced by her family.

Mary C. Brown, 80, of Lancaster and formerly of Columbia and Needmore (Fulton County), passed away peacefully at home, on June 24, 2025. She was born in Lancaster to the late Percy and Dorothy (Witmer) Campbell.

Mary attended Manheim Central High School and worked at Donegal Industries, Herr & Sacco, JLG and was the “go-to” neighborhood babysitter for many years. Mary enjoyed being a homemaker, keeping a tidy house, cooking large holiday dinners and making her famous peanut butter eggs.  She was a loving daughter, sister, aunt, wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother and friend. Mary was a devoted member of Newtown United Methodist Church in Columbia.

Mary leaves behind her two beloved daughters, Lori, wife of Eric Findley of Quarryville, Jennifer Brown of Lancaster; four grandchildren, Haydn Wolpert (& Bri Weaver), Austin Findley (& wife, Hannah), Liam Findley, and Patric Cusack; two great grandchildren, Rosalee Wolpert and Brycen Findley; and her three loving sisters, Sandra Mullen (wife of the late Lawrence Mullen Sr), Darlene Troutman (wife of Dave Troutman) and Jane Nauman (wife of the late Gene Nauman); numerous nieces and nephews and a large extended family. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her loving husband of almost fifty-three years, Edwin R. Brown, two brothers, Percy Eugene and Robert Campbell; and a son, Charles Eugene Putt, respectively.

Mary was a faithful friend to any animal that crossed her path, cats in particular.  A large part of her life was devoted to their love and care.  She instilled that caring nature in both her daughters and grandchildren. She will truly be missed by all who know her and will never be forgotten.

A celebration of Mary’s life will be held at Newtown United Methodist Church in Columbia and will be announced by her family. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Helping Hands for Animals at https://helpinghandsforanimals.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.

Doris M. Jones, 95, of Lititz passed away on June 22, 2025. She was born in Columbia to the late Charles and Elva Buck McKinney and was a lifelong resident of this area.

Doris was a graduate of Columbia High School with the Class of 1948. She loved the music of her generation and was known to be an excellent cook. Doris was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother who adored her family and treasured spending time with them.

Doris leaves behind five children, Elizabeth, wife of Michael Huegel of Lititz, Deborah L., wife of John Jones of Lancaster, Everett W., husband of Cindy Jones of Lititz, Karen M., wife of Bryon Maze of Lancaster, Krista Bergey of Maytown; ten grandchildren, Rebecca, Emily, Chris, Tonya, John E., Austin, Brandon, Amanda, Andrew, and Mary Beth; thirteen great grandchildren. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband Rev. Everett W. Jones, Sr. in 2014.

A graveside service will be held 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 28, 2025 at Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens, 845 Laurel Hill Rd, Columbia, PA 17512. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Caring Fund, c/o the Office for Philanthropy at Luthercare, 600 East Main Street, Lititz, PA 17543.

She loved the music of her generation and was known to be an excellent cook.

graveside service will be held 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 28, 2025 at Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens, 845 Laurel Hill Rd, 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.

Ella was a collector of all things collectible, especially dolls, butterflies, and manatees.

Services for Ella will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, June 26, 2025 at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, 519 Walnut St, Columbia, PA 17512.

Visitation will be held beginning at 10:00 a.m. until service time.

Burial will follow, and she will be laid to rest with her parents, at Mount Bethel Cemetery.

 

Ella A. Evrard, 82, of Columbia passed away on June 19, 2025. She was born in Columbia to the late Louis and Marie Allison Evrard and was a lifelong resident of Columbia.

Ella was a graduate of Columbia High School with the Class of 1961 and worked with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania for forty-two years before her retirement. She traveled extensively throughout the United States and Europe and was a collector of all things collectible, especially dolls, butterflies, and manatees. Ella was a lifelong and faithful member of Columbia Presbyterian Church where she served as deacon and founding member of Job’s Daughters International and also Eastern Star Chapter 366.

Ella leaves behind many friends and was preceded in death by her parents.

Services for Ella will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, June 26, 2025 at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, 519 Walnut St, Columbia, PA 17512. Visitation will be held beginning at 10:00 a.m. until service time. Burial will follow, and she will be laid to rest with her parents, at Mount Bethel Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Columbia Presbyterian Church, 360 Locust 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.

An avid outdoorsman, he enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping and spending time with his family.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at Grub Lake on June 29th, 2025 from 1:00 to 4:00.

Robert C. Bartley, Jr. 68 of West Hempfield Township passed away on June 15, 2025 His residence. He was the husband of Lori Miller Bartley with whom he was married 14 years. Born in Salem, OH he was the son of the late Robert C. Sr. and Eleanora Clarr Bartley.

He retired from Sahd Metal Recycling where he was employed as a crane operator and had been employed recently by Serta Mattress.  An avid outdoorsman, he enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping and spending time with his family.

In addition to his wife are his children, Robert C. Bartley, IlI; stepchildren, Garry Sheneberger, Jr.; Brandi Sheneberger; Sasha Sheneberger; Five grandchildren; Michael,Carrie, Travis, MaryJane, and Gideon. Goddaughter Marie Wimer. Siblings, Roberta Weibley, James Bartley, Lora Link; Linda Findley and Cindy Bartley, Robin Bartley. His siblings, Maricetta Long and Boyd Bartley preceded him in death.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at Grub Lake on June 29th from 1 to 4

---

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 keeping his yard meticulous and always enjoyed a good cigar and loved sipping on his favorite beer, Genesee.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date at the convenience of the family.

Paul E. "Zig" Ziegler, Jr. 76 of Columbia, passed away on Thursday, June 12, 2025, at U.P.M.C, Lititz after a brief illness. Zig was the beloved husband of Jacqueline McCrabb Ziegler with whom he was married for 56 years. A lifelong Columbia resident, he was the son of the late Paul E. Sr. and Eleanor L. Ziegler.

A graduate of Holy Trinity Catholic School and Lancaster Catholic High School, Class of 1966, Zig retired after 54 years of service from Armstrong World Industries where he was employed as a supervisor. Zig was a member of Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Columbia and the Knights of Columbus Council 2294. He enjoyed keeping his yard meticulous and always enjoyed a good cigar and loved sipping on his favorite beer, Genesee. Zig was the doting pap to his four grandchildren who filled his life with immense joy and lots of winning board games.

In addition to his wife Jacquie, he is survived by his daughter, Nicole, wife of William Thomas; four grandchildren, Sophia, Ava, Demetria, Aristotle and siblings, Maryann Ziegler, Eleanor (Toot), wife of Keith Waller, William (Jed), husband of Frances Ziegler and Christine Ziegler.

The family would like to thank Dr. Latif and his team and Sr. Anna Cosgrove for their excellent care and support given to Paul.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date at the convenience of the family. If desired, memorial contributions by be made to the Hillman Cancer Center at: www.hillman.upmc.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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

To send an online condolence visit www.clydekraft.com

---

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

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

 

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

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

smile and maybe something special.

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

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

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

---

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

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

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

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

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

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

---

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.

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

---

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.

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.

---

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.

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.

---

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.

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.

---

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 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.

---

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.

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/

---

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.

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!

---

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.