Robert was a U.S. Army Veteran, tool and die maker, and skilled wood worker.

Memorial Mass: 11:00 AM on Friday, April 1, 2022, at Holy Trinity Catholic Church

Robert P. Schmitt, 92, of Ironville, went home peacefully on Monday, March 28, 2022. Born in Camden, New Jersey, he was the son of the late John A. and Helen Wickenheiser Schmitt and husband of the late Mary Markley Schmitt, whom he was married for 61 years.

Robert graduated from Columbia High School, class of 1946, and received an Associate’s Degree from Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology. He proudly served in the United States Army. Robert was a tool and die maker at Alcoa and in 1991 retired from AMP/Tyco Corp in Mount Joy. In his retirement, he enjoyed working at Fox’s and Redner’s markets as a stocker and bagger, where he enjoyed greeting young children. He had a smile for everyone he met.  Robert was a member of Holy Trinity Catholic Church and the Holy Name Society, where he was actively involved with BBQ, subs, and fastnacht sales. He was a skilled woodworker, known for his lathe and scroll work. He also enjoyed going deep sea fishing with family and friends.  He enjoyed working in his large garden and raising vegetables to share with others. He truly enjoyed being with family and friends.

Robert is survived by his daughter, Mary Elizabeth Youtz, wife of Stephen, of Mountville; son, Robert P. Schmitt, Jr., husband of Deb, of Elizabethtown; 4 grandchildren: Robert, Gregory, Jennifer, and Justin; 3 great grandchildren; and sisters in law, Doris Schmitt and Nancy Schmitt. In addition to his parents and his wife, Robert was preceded in death by his brothers, Joseph Schmitt and Albert Schmitt; and his grandson, Andrew Youtz.

A Memorial Mass for Robert will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, April 1, 2022, at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 409 Cherry St., Columbia, PA 17512.  In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Kids Express Preschool in Robert Schmitt’s name. He enjoyed being around young children and helped with projects around the preschool.   Arrangements by the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Columbia/Landisville.

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James enjoyed spending time with his friends, working on cars and playing hockey.

Funeral Service: 11:00 AM on Tuesday, March 29, 2022, at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home

James Louis “Jimbo” Norman, 30, of Wrightsville, passed away at home on March 24, 2022. Born in Langhorne, PA, he was the son of Louis J. Norman and Janet B. Keuper.

James grew up in Fairless Hills, PA; Derry, NH; Mount Joy, PA; and Landisville, PA. He was a 2010 graduate of Hempfield High School and of Lancaster County Career and Technology Center, where he studied Auto Mechanics and Welding. In 2016, James graduated from Thaddeus Stevens Institute of Technology in Lancaster. He worked as a welder at SWF Industrial Inc. of Wrightsville, and had previously worked for ITT Engineered Valves in Lancaster and TAIT Towers of Lititz. James enjoyed spending time with his friends, working on cars and playing hockey.

James is survived by his mother, Janet B. Keuper (Scott), of Landisville; his father, Louis J. Norman (Donna), of Mount Joy; his sisters, Erin M. Fike (Brian), of York, Ashley N. Norman, of Lancaster, and Kaitlin A. Norman, of Grantville; his nephews, Jaiden, Brooks, Graham; his niece, June; his dog, Zeppelin; and several uncles, aunts, and cousins.

A funeral service for James will be held at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, March 29, 2022, at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, 519 Walnut St., Columbia. Family and friends may view one hour prior to the service. Interment in Silver Spring Cemetery will follow the service. There will be a viewing on Monday, March 28, 2022 from 6:00-8:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention at AFSP.org. Arrangements by the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Columbia/Landisville.

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Angela was an avid musician specializing in vocal and piano while being a worship and youth leader.

Angela’s Services: Wednesday, March 30, 2022 at 11:00 from the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc., Columbia. Pastor Steven Hilton officiate.

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

Rev. Angela J. Misal, 66, of Columbia passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family on March 23rd, 2022. She was born in Corning, NY to the late Norman and Nancy Baker and was a lifelong resident of this area.

Angela was a graduate of Columbia High School with the Class of 1974 and attended Millersville University where she studied psychology. She loved the Lord and was ordained through Christian International, which began more than twenty-five years of service in the communities in and around Columbia. Angela was an avid musician specializing in vocal and piano while being a worship and youth leader. She adored her family and treasured spending time with them; especially her grandchildren.

Angela leaves behind her husband of almost forty-four years Gordon Misal of Columbia; her children, David, husband of Misty Misal of Spokane, WA, Carolyn Misal of Columbia; seven grandchildren, Nichole, Nathaniel, Maria, Jodee, Rebecca, Idubin, Dominic; one great grandchild, Riley; a sister, Diana, wife of John Elder of Bainbridge; a community of many friends.

Services for Angela will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, March 30th, 2022 at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, 519 Walnut St, Columbia, PA 17512. Pastor Steven Hilton will officiate. The family will receive friends for visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. until service time. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation In Angela’s name to Dayspring Christian Academy, 120 College Ave, Mountville, PA 17554 or www.dayspringchristian.com/donate.

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Gerald was a career U.S. Navy Veteran then worked for the U.S. Postal Service

Funeral service: Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home on Saturday, March 26, 2022 at 3:00 p.m.

Gerald C. Rider, 92, of Stockton, MA, died March 18, 2022. Native of Pennsylvania, he was career U.S. Navy veteran then worked for the U.S. Postal Service until retirement. Gerald was a life member of Baalis Sanford Lodge, Randolph Elks, and Randolph Amvets. Husband of the late Alice (Kilroy) (Sorrell) Rider, he was the father of Carl Rider, Lorene Venezia (Michael), Katherine Farrell, Richard Sorrell (and the late Melanie), Ramona Murray, David Sorrell, Phillip Sorrell, and the late Christopher Rider; grandfather and great grandfather of many; brother of Irene Bard, Linda Shaub and Carol Zook; and an uncle of many nieces and nephew.

A funeral service will be held at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc. 519 Walnut St., Columbia, PA on Saturday, March 26, 2022 at 3:00 p.m. Burial will follow in Fairview Cemetery. Friends may view at the funeral home one hour prior to the service. The family kindly requests no flowers. Arrangements by the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Columbia/Landisville.

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JT joined the United  States Air Force as a USAF Administrative Specialist from 1982-1986

Viewing: 6:00pm – 8:00pm, Thursday, March 24, 2022, at Clyde  W. Kraft Funeral Home, Columbia

John Vincent Thomas. 58 

John V. Thomas, known as “JT,” to many friends, passed away on Monday, March 7, 2022. 

JT was born and raised in Columbia PA. He is proceeded in death by his father Shafter “Harvey”  Thomas and Mother Marion (Fisher) Thomas and sister Darlene M. Fisher. 

He is survived by his brother Joe Fisher (Shirley), Nieces Julie Lassiter (David) and Heather Logan (Eric). And Great Nephews Ryan Farco and Austin Farco (Audrey), Great Niece Erica Logan, Great  Nephew Heath Logan all from Texas. And many friends that he impacted during his life. 

JT was a graduate of Columbia High School, Class of 1982. Upon graduation JT joined the United  States Air Force as a USAF Administrative Specialist from 1982-1986 at Reese AFB in Lubbock  Texas. He returned to Columbia in 1986 after his honorable discharge to care for his mother. 

From 1987 through September 1889, he was employed with WGAL. John then worked for RR  Donnelly, now LSC Communications, for 33 years until his passing. 

He belonged to several Social Clubs within the area. He was a member of the Columbia Fraternal  Association – OWLS, Foresters of America, Catholic War Vets, Colombia Borough Fire Company,  Hambones Social Club, Columbia American Legion Post 372 and the Dallas Cowboys Fan Club of  York PA. 

He attended Columbia Church of God in Columbia PA. 

JT was an avid sports fan and an avid music enthusiast. When it came to sports, JT was a rabid  Dallas Cowboys fan. JT also enjoyed cheering for the Texas Rangers Baseball cCub and the Dallas  Stars Hockey Club. 

JT especially enjoyed traveling with his friends and visiting with his family in Texas. John was in  Texas in September 2021 sitting by the pool and enjoying Texas BBQ, visiting the Stockyards in  Fort Worth and of course a tour at the home of the Dallas Cowboys and their practice facility the  Star. Always cramming more into a visit, JT visited Texas Rangers Stadium, The Dallas Star’s store  and FC Dallas Soccer Club. 

JT was loved by all who knew him. As his friends have said, JT was “the real deal”. JT was kind,  funny, generous and would do anything for his friends and family. He lived his life to the fullest  and always wearing a smile. JT will be truly missed by all his friends and family. “The Real Deal’  for sure! 

Viewing and visitation will be held from 6:00pm – 8:00pm, Thursday, March 24, 2022, at Clyde  W. Kraft Funeral Home, 519 Walnut Street, Columbia, PA 17512. 

Memorial Service to be held Saturday, April 9, 2022. Time and place to be determined.

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Maria retired as the finance manager at the former Columbia Hospital and attended St. Peter Catholic Church, Columbia.

Graveside service: Washington Boro Cemetery on Friday, March 18, 2022 at 11:30 a.m.

Maria Estella Longoria Jones, 97, of Columbia, passed away in her sleep on March 12, 2022 at the Susquehanna Rehabilitation Health Care Center where she has resided since 2017. She was the wife of the late Harold J. Jones who preceded her in death in 1985. They met prior to his deployment to the Philippines during WWII.

Born in Santa Rita, TX, she was the daughter of the late Eugenio and Ana Treviño Longoria. She retired as the finance manager at the former Columbia Hospital and attended St. Peter Catholic Church, Columbia.

Surviving is her sister Irma Garcia of Texas, nieces and nephews and cousins.

A graveside service will be held in Washington Boro Cemetery on Friday, March 18, 2022 at 11:30 a.m. with the Rev. Augustine Joseph, officiating.

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Roberto enjoyed family gatherings and was known for cooking and serving others his famous rice and beans.

Funeral services will be held at Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc., 519 Walnut St., Columbia, PA on Friday, March 18, 2022, at 11:00 a.m.

The family will receive visitors beginning at 10:00 a.m. until service time.

Roberto Velez Colón Sr., 85, died peacefully, with family by his side, at Luther Acres Healthcare Center, Lititz, on March 10, 2022, after a long battle with dementia. Roberto was born in Mayaguez, P.R. to the late Adelaida Colón and Damian Velez.

He was married to Janet Nace Colón and will be greatly missed by his children; Robert V. Colón Jr., Lisa Riggleman, Tina Millhouse, Kelly Arnold, Karie Mihan, and their companions, as well as his numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Vivian Colón, and numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, brothers Raymond Colón & Adrian Colón, and sister, Adelita Pabon.

Roberto proudly retired from Harley Davidson. He loved watching baseball and was a Yankees fan. He played softball and was in a bowling league in his younger years. Roberto enjoyed family gatherings and was known for cooking and serving others his famous rice and beans.

Funeral services will be held at Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc., 519 Walnut St., Columbia, PA on Friday, March 18, 2022, at 11:00am The family will receive visitors beginning at 10:00am until service time. A celebration of Roberto’s life will be held by family at a later date. In lieu of flowers, we invite you to make donations in his honor to Luthercare, 600 E. Main St., Lititz, PA, 17543 or online at https://www.luthercare.org/donate-now.

The family would like to thank the staff at Luther Acres Healthcare Center for the excellent care, love & support he received for the past 6 years. They will always be part of the family.

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There wasn't a puzzle she couldn't solve, or a casino she didn't like.

Family will have a celebration of life on June 13, 2022.

Bonita M. Deibert 83, passed away March 10. Her life was full of joy, love, and laughter.

Bonnie's life will continue to be celebrated by her loving husband of 63 years (Dick Deibert), her children (Laurie and Doug), seven grandchildren (Katelyn, Alaina, Erik, Chad, Olivia, Calliope and Spencer).

She taught elementary school and was a reading specialist for many years. There wasn't a puzzle she couldn't solve, or a casino she didn't like. Her mastery in the kitchen is storied lore in the family. Bonnie had several gifts, one of our favorites was her ability to be both asleep and awake at the same time. She could travel in a car across Eastern Oregon and mid-snore sit upright with her eyes closed and say, "there's a bobcat" (True story!)

Bonnie's family will have a celebration of life on June 13, 2022. If interested in attending please reach out to the family for more details, we will provide as they are finalized. In lieu of flowers, please purchase a book to donate or read to a child in her memory.

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Patrick loved his family and will be missed for his endearing sense of humor.

Celebration of Patrick’s life: 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, March 12th, 2022 at Kinderhook Evangelical Congregational Church, 560 Kinderhook Rd, Columbia, PA 17512.

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

Patrick J. Andrews, 72, of Columbia passed away on March 6th, 2022. He was born in Columbia to the late Arling and Helen Brock Andrews and was a lifelong resident of this area.

Patrick attended Penn Manor High School and worked for forty-two years at U.S. Aluminum and then Beck Aluminum before his retirement. He enjoyed boating and was a life time member of the Marietta Boat Club. He also enjoyed working on cars, tending to his yard, and gardening. Patrick loved his family and will be missed for his endearing sense of humor.

Patrick leaves behind his wife of forty-eight years Rhoda Andrews of Columbia; four children, Butch, husband of Leah West Mann of Marietta, Tim Mann, fiancé of Christine Reyes of Columbia, Lori, wife of Michael Sprenkle of York, Ron, husband of Kelley Andrews of Mountville; twelve grandchildren and nine great grandchildren; four siblings, Darlene, wife of Bob Oatman of Columbia, George Andrews of York, Ruth Andres of Columbia, Kathy Andres of Columbia; his canine companion Abby. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his daughter Tammy Andrews and nine siblings, Bob, Chuck, Mike, Ed, Leroy, Ron, Raymond, Joe, and Don.

A celebration of Patrick’s life will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, March 12th, 2022 at Kinderhook Evangelical Congregational Church, 560 Kinderhook Rd, Columbia, PA 17512. The family will receive friends for visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. until service time. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Hospice and Community Care, 685 Good Dr, Lancaster, PA 17604 or the American Diabetes Association, Eastern Pennsylvania & Delaware, 150 Monument Rd # 100, Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004. Arrangements by the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc. Columbia/Landisville www.clydekraft.com

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Betty enjoyed crocheting, jigsaw puzzles, fishing and eating crabs with Anna.

Private funeral services will be held at the convenience of the family.

Betty L. Betts, 77, of Columbia, passed away on Friday, March 4, 2022 at Penn Medicine LGH.  She was the wife of the Adson P. Betts, Sr. who preceded her in death in 2010. Born in Washington DC, she was the daughter of the late Willis J. and Beulah Chambers Baker.

Betty retired as a purchasing agent from Berg Electronics, a subsidiary of Dupont after more than 30 years. She also had worked as an emergency room registrar at the former Lancaster Regional Medical Center. 

A member of St. Paul’s Baptist Church, Columbia she enjoyed crocheting, jigsaw puzzles, fishing and eating crabs with Anna.

Surviving are her daughters, Stephanie Allen; Melinda wife of the late Harold Anderson; Rhonda wife of Robert Woods; stepson, Robert Allen, Jr. 12 grandchildren; 28 great grandchildren; two great great grandchildren and her special friend, Anna Gomez.

Private funeral services will be held at the convenience of the family.

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Sally always took the time to know a little something about the people she came in contact with and had a great ability to put a smile on everyone’s face as she never took herself too seriously.

Friends may view at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc. 519 Walnut St. Columbia PA Thursday evening from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m.

Funeral services will be held from the Columbia United Methodist Church, 510 Walnut St. Columbia, PA on Friday, March 4, 2022 at 11:00 a.m. (A viewing will also be held one hour prior to the funeral services).

Interment will follow in Holy Trinity Catholic Cemetery.

Sally K. Lutz, 70, of Columbia, passed away on Tuesday, March 1, 2022 at home. She was the wife of the late James J. Lutz with whom she was married 41 years until his death in 2013. Born in Shamokin, she was the daughter of the late Harry and Grace Patrick Haupt. She was a graduate of Columbia High School, Class of 1969.

Sally was employed by the Kleen-Rite Corporation as an office administrator and alongside her husband Jim were instrumental and responsible for opening distribution centers in Las Vegas, NV in 2006 and Grand Prairie, TX in 2012.They considered opening these distribution centers one of their proudest and greatest achievements. She previously had worked as a Secretary for the Columbia Boro School District and as a Legislative Aid to Rep Kenneth Brandt in his Columbia office. Sally was a people person with a wonderful sense of humor. She always took the time to know a little something about the people she came in contact with and had a great ability to put a smile on everyone’s face as she never took herself too seriously.

A member of the Columbia United Methodist Church, she loved the Lord and spent many hours in his word. She volunteered for many years as a Columbia Republican Committeewoman. Sally enjoyed beach trips with her family, Disney World and we can’t forget the FFT girls. She loved her hometown of Columbia and all the great people in it but more than anything she enjoyed doting on her family especially her grandchildren.

She is survived by her son, Keith husband of Angela (Burke) Lutz; daughter, Amy Wright; nine grandchildren, Haley, Adriana, Sophia, Teagan, Simone, Tate, Matthew, Alyssa and Mya. Her siblings, Bill Haupt and Linda Rupp preceded her in death.

Funeral services will be held from the Columbia United Methodist Church, 510 Walnut St. Columbia PA on Friday, March 4, 2022 at 11:00 a.m. with the Rev. Tom Grubbs, officiating (a viewing will be held one hour prior to funeral services). Interment will follow in Holy Trinity Catholic Cemetery. Friends may view at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc. 519 Walnut St. Columbia PA Thursday evening (tonight) from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Columbia Education Foundation, PO Box 548, Columbia PA 17512.

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Often putting others first instead of herself, she was the embodiment of selflessness.

Services: Saturday, March 5th at 11:30 a.m. at the Masonic Village in Elizabethtown

Betty Arlene (Holzman) Snyder passed from our world on February 19th, one day after her 94th birthday. At her request, her immediate family was by her side - her husband of 71 years, Leonard, and their four children. Betty spent the last 4 years at the Masonic Village in Elizabethtown where she was beloved for her sunny and positive personality.

Betty was a devoted wife and mother and is survived by David (wife Lani), Lauri, Thom (wife Cathy) and Anne as well as four grandchildren, Emily (husband Dan), Marc, Marisa, and Luke. Betty also had two great-grandchildren, Owen, and Elliott.

Born in 1928 in Robesonia, PA, she researched her genealogy back to 17th century Germany and spoke often of her beloved grandparents. Betty graduated valedictorian from Robesonia High School and secretarial school, keeping in touch with her classmates and attending monthly reunions for many years.

From a very early age, Betty watched over her much younger sister, Shirley, and her brother, John, and her thoughts were always for her kids, grandkids and especially, Leonard, who she met at The Black Duck in 1947. They loved to dance. Mom really loved music, and many afternoons she would be playing a beautiful piano piece as we came home from school imploding her peaceful interlude!

Often putting others first instead of herself, she was the embodiment of selflessness. Mom felt close to God and had a strong sense of who she was and what she believed: resolute in her convictions.

Betty was also an avid organic gardener at her ideal home on James Street in Landisville. Even later in life when mobility issues arose, she would often sit on a blanket and tend to her garden. She also crocheted and read extensive biographies and accounts of American history.

Betty was a trusted bookkeeper for Lebzelter's Goodyear in Lancaster for many years, and later worked at Manheim and Ephrata automobile auctions as a notary public. She had the most beautiful handwriting too. And Mom was quick to laugh, especially at herself, and our family Pictionary games gave her plenty of opportunities! Her drawings were legendary for creating barrels of laughs.

Betty loved Thanksgiving dinner at Anne's and the many dogs that were in her life, so in lieu of flowers, she would have loved friends and family making donations to: Charlie's Crusaders, a 501(c)(3) non-profit pet rescue and foster organization.

Services will be held for Betty this Saturday, March 5th at 11:30 a.m. at the Masonic Village in Elizabethtown, PA with a luncheon served immediately afterwards. For further directions and information please contact the event coordinator at Masonic Village at 717-367-1121 Ext 33472.

The family is being assisted by the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc.

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Gloria enjoyed gardening, sewing, and all types of needle crafts, including knitting, crocheting, and quilting.

A funeral service will be held Friday, March 4, 2022, at 2:00 PM at Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church

Gloria Grube, 96, of Manheim, died Saturday, February 26, 2022. Born in Clay Township, she was the daughter of the late James and Naoma (Boyer) Seiverling. Gloria was preceded in death by her husband, Weidler, in 2015. They were married December 20, 1947.

Gloria graduated from Lititz High School and then from Lancaster General Hospital School of Nursing, as a member of the US Army Nurse Cadet Corps during World War II. Gloria continued her nursing career for most of her life. In addition to being a dedicated homemaker, she was also a working partner with Weidler on their family farm in East Hempfield Township. Gloria was an active member of Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church in Landisville where she was involved in many areas of ministry. She volunteered with the Hempfield School District Senior Program and the Hempfield Area Food Pantry. Gloria enjoyed gardening, sewing, and all types of needle crafts, including knitting, crocheting, and quilting.

Gloria is survived by her children, James E., husband of Connie Grube, of Landisville; Jacqueline A., wife of Paul Fetter of Newmanstown; June R., of Everett, WA; and Jere W., husband of Deborah Grube, of Manheim; and her 10 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her sister, Gladys Irvin.  

A funeral service will be held Friday, March 4, 2022, at 2:00 PM at the Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church, 85 Brandt Boulevard, Landisville, with Pastor Melody Sell officiating. There will be visitation one hour prior to the service. Interment will take place at Jerusalem Lutheran Cemetery, in Rothsville. In lieu of flowers, contributions to Hempfield Rec Center, Hempfield Area Food Pantry, or Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church would be deeply appreciated. Arrangements by the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Columbia/Landisville.

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Joseph was a devoted husband for thirty-five years to his late wife Gloria and was a loving father and grandfather who adored his family.

Celebration of Joseph’s life: 1:30 p.m. on Friday, March 4th, 2022 at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, 519 Walnut St, Columbia, PA 17512. The family will receive friends for visitation beginning at 1:00 p.m. until service time.

He will be laid to rest with his late wife at Silver Spring Cemetery on a later date.

Joseph Parkyn, 83, of Lancaster and formerly of Columbia passed away on February 27th, 2022. He was born in Shamokin, PA to the late Fred and Mary Cates Parkyn.

Joseph attended and graduated from Columbia High School with the Class of 1956 and proudly served in the United States Navy. He was a pioneer in the cable industry for forty-five years and ended his career with Comcast. He was a devoted husband for thirty-five years to his late wife Gloria and was a loving father and grandfather who adored his family.

Joseph leaves behind his daughters, Barbara Parkyn, partner of Robert Yamauchi of Berkley, CA and Karen Parkyn-Michael, wife of Doug Michael of Midlothian, VA; two grandchildren, Colin Michael of Baltimore, MD and Devan Michael of Denver, CO. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife Gloria Miller Parkyn in 1995 and his son Joseph R. Parkyn in 2012.

A celebration of Joseph’s life will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Friday, March 4th, 2022 at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, 519 Walnut St, Columbia, PA 17512. The family will receive friends for visitation beginning at 1:00 p.m. until service time. He will be laid to rest with his late wife at Silver Spring Cemetery on a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Ann B. Barshinger Cancer Institute, 2102 Harrisburg Pk, Lancaster, PA 17601.

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Lorraine was very involved in Catholic sacraments and activities and guided daily by her very special guardian angel whose prayers and example moved Lorraine into a deeper relationship with Him.

Mass of Christian Burial: St. Leo the Great Catholic Church, Lancaster, PA 17601 on Monday, March 7, 2022 at 11:00 a.m. with the Rev. Peter I. Hahn, Celebrant.

Burial will follow in Fairview Cemetery, Wrightsville, PA.

Lorraine Rimert passed to her eternal home on February 15, 2022. Born on August 30, 1925, she graduated from East Hempfield High School in 1943. During the following six years she worked as a bookkeeper, converted to Catholicism and became an active member of St. Mary's in Lancaster.

Lorraine is survived by a brother Ken Greenly; numerous nephews and nieces; friend Ralene husband James Miller and a very dear goddaughter, AnnMarie Miller husband Nick; their three children Adrianna, Noah and Allison and a very special guardian angel Mary Anne Shillow, R.N. She was preceded in death by her parents Gay Rimert and Carrie (Conlon) Rimert Greenly; sister June Althoff; brother Richard Rimert and sister Dawn Watts.

Having continued her education via government grants while working, she attained her M.A in Physics in 1953. She than began her teaching career of 43 years the last 24 at LaSalle College High School in Philadelphia teaching physics, chemistry, math, science and electronics with her weekends and summers spent maintaining and repairing audio-visual equipment.

In 1996, Lorraine retired from teaching and moved into St. Anne's Village Independent Living where she began a new lifestyle which was mainly faith oriented. She was very involved in Catholic sacraments and activities and guided daily by her very special guardian angel whose prayers and example moved Lorraine into a deeper relationship with Him whom Mother Mary proclaimed "My son magnifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior. For He who is mighty has done great things for me and Holy is his name Jesus."

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held from St. Leo the Great Catholic Church, 2427 Marietta Ave., Lancaster, PA 17601 on Monday, March 7, 2022 at 11:00 a.m. with the Rev. Peter I. Hahn, Celebrant. Burial will follow in Fairview Cemetery, Wrightsville, PA.

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He enjoyed raising and showing pigeons.

Private Services

Leroy G. “Junie” Hallacher

Leroy G. Hallacher, 84 of Columbia passed away on Friday, February 25th, 2022. He is survived by his wife Jane and four children; daughter, Kathy (John) McFarland, son, Glenn (Toni) Hallacher, son, Don (Renaie) Hallacher, daughter, Barb (Joe) Good. Six grandchildren, nine great grandchildren, two great great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a grandson, John (Boo) McFarland, Jr. Leroy and Jane were married for sixty-three years. Leroy retired from Grinnell after forty-three years of service. He enjoyed watching football. The Dallas Cowboys and Pittsburgh Steelers were his favorite teams. He also enjoyed raising and showing pigeons. Services for Leroy will be private.

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Paul will be remembered as a great family man who enjoyed making homemade ice cream and doting over his great-grandchildren.

No services at this time.

Paul L. Keperling, 90, of Lancaster, passed away on Sunday, February 20, 2022 at UPMC-Lititz. He was the husband of Gloria Hardy Keperling with whom he was married 13 years. Born in Manor Township, he was the son of the late Orvin and Mary Groff Keperling.

Paul was employed for over 50 years at Hunter Keystone Peterbilt, Lancaster where he worked as a truck driver and later in the parts department. He retired in 2019. He will be remembered as a great family man who enjoyed making homemade ice cream and doting over his great-grandchildren.

In addition to his wife are his children, Tammy wife of Mitch Duke; Peggy wife of Joe Duke; Holly Lynn wife of Gene Duke; seven grandchildren, two great-grandchildren and his sister, Mildred Johnson. His son Ricky Helm preceded him in death.

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Joanne will be remembered as a dedicated and loving mother and grandmother. 

Funeral Service: Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home Saturday, February 26, 2022 at 11:00 AM

Joanne M. Ott, 79, of Columbia PA, passed away Tuesday, February 22, 2022 at Oak Leaf Manor in Landisville, PA. She was the wife of the late Frank Ott, who passed away in 2014. A lifelong Columbia resident, she was the daughter of the late Arthur Haines Ream and Mildred Jeanette Lockard. 

Joanne spent her life as a meticulous homemaker, who enjoyed decorating her home and making it beautiful. She was often seen outside of her home on Locust Street, sprucing things up. She loved reading Home and Garden magazines, especially those about Victorian style homes. Joanne was a homebody who enjoyed arts and crafts, working on word searches, and dancing. She was a member of the VFW Post 2435 in Columbia PA. Joanne will be remembered as a dedicated and loving mother and grandmother. 

Joanne is survived by her children, John F. Ott, of Columbia; Julie A. Ott, of Pequea; and Mark Ott (Patricia Files) of Lancaster. She is also survived by her grandson Jarryd Ott. In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by her brother.  

A funeral service will be held from the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, 519 Walnut Street, Columbia, PA, on Saturday, February 26, 2022 at 11:00 AM. There will be a visitation one hour prior to the service. Interment in Fairview Cemetery will follow. In lieu of flowers, contributions to the Alzheimer’s Association at alz.org would be deeply appreciated. Arrangements by the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Columbia/Landisville.

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Donald loved his family and was an active member of his church.

Visitation for Donald will be held from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. on Friday, February 25th, 2022 at Millersville Bible Church, 1940 New Danville Pk, Lancaster, PA 17603.

A celebration of Donald’s life will be held on Saturday, February 26th, 2022 at 11:00 a.m. also at the church with visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. until service time.

Burial will be private and he will be laid to rest at Millersville Mennonite Cemetery.

Donald E. Breneman, 70, of Millersville passed away, surrounded by his family, on February 22nd, 2022. He was born in Lancaster to the late Earl and I. Elizabeth Breneman.

Donald attended Penn Manor High School and proudly served in the United States Air Force and Reserves. He worked with F.H. Kreider for forty-eight years; almost up until his passing. Donald loved his family and was an active member of his church.

Donald leaves behind his wife of forty-four years, Lois Jean Breneman of Millersville; three children, Nathan, husband of Amy Breneman of Manheim, Philip, husband of Rebecca Breneman of South Park, PA, Charlene Breneman of Columbia; eight grandchildren; two sisters, Doris, wife of Dan Meehan of North Hampton, PA, Joanne, wife of Wayne Showalter of Broadway, VA.

Visitation for Donald will be held from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. on Friday, February 25th, 2022 at Millersville Bible Church, 1940 New Danville Pk, Lancaster, PA 17603. A celebration of Donald’s life will be held on Saturday, February 26th, 2022 at 11:00 a.m. also at the church with visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. until service time. Burial will be private and he will be laid to rest at Millersville Mennonite Cemetery. Please consider a donation to Millersville Bible Church, Building Fund, 58 W. Frederick St, Millersville, PA 17551. Arrangements by the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc. Columbia/Landisville www.clydekraft.com

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A U.S. Army veteran, he was a member of the B.P.O.E. #1074 Columbia.

Funeral services: Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Columbia, PA on Thursday, February 24, 2022 at 11:00 a.m. with the Rev. Mark S. Kopp, officiating.

Viewing will be held one hour prior to services.

Interment will follow in Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens.

James C. Witmer, 88, of Columbia, passed away on February 17, 2022 at Penn Medicine LGH. He was the husband of the late Judith Bigler Witmer who preceded him in death in 1985. A lifelong Columbia resident, he was the son of the late William and Minnie Criswell Witmer.

Jim retired in 1996 after 35 years of service from Sprint where he worked in the cable department. A U.S. Army veteran, he was a member of the B.P.O.E. #1074 Columbia.

He is survived by his sister, Carolyn Blumenschein; niece, Suzanne wife of Dean Vitatoe; nephew, Brian husband of Suzanne Blumenschein; great niece, Ericka Vitatoe; great nephews, John Ruth; Zachery Vitatoe and Benjamin Witmer. He was preceded in death by his brothers, Herbert and William Witmer.

Funeral services will be held at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc., 519 Walnut St., Columbia, PA on Thursday, February 24, 2022 at 11:00 a.m. with the Rev. Mark S. Kopp, officiating. Interment will follow in Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens. Family and friends may view on Thursday one hour prior to the service. If desired, contributions may be made to the American Heart Association.

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