Larry L. Waltz

An avid outdoorsman he enjoyed hunting, fishing, trapping and spending time at the family cabin in Clearfield County.

evening viewing at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc., Columbia, PA 17512 on Thursday from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. an additional viewing will be held at the church one hour prior to the service friday.

funeral services: Concordia Lutheran Church, 3825 Concordia Road, Columbia, PA 17512 on Friday, August 18, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. burial will follow in Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens.

 

Larry Lee Waltz, 77 of Columbia, passed away on Saturday, August 12, 2023. He was the husband of Susan Eshelman Waltz with whom he was married 48 years. Born in Manheim, he was the son of the late Henry and Gertrude Zink Waltz.

A retired foundryman, Larry was employed at U.S. Aluminum and Pennsylvania Malleable along with being a farm worker. An avid outdoorsman he enjoyed hunting, fishing, trapping and spending time at the family cabin in Clearfield County. He was a member of Concordia Lutheran Church, Marietta Beneficial Association, Marietta Boat Club, Dela-Ches Fishing Association, and the Milton Grove Sportsman Association.

In addition to his wife are his daughters, Connie wife of Dan Zechman; Tammy Fawber; three grandchildren, Elizabeth Stine, Nathan Fawber, Sadie Waltz and his brother Luke Waltz. He was preceded in death by his grandson Dillon Stine and ten siblings.

Family and friends are invited to attend funeral services at Concordia Lutheran Church, 3825 Concordia Road, Columbia, PA 17512 on Friday, August 18, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. with the Rev. Mary Anne Kingsborough, officiating. Burial will follow in Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens. Friends may view at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc., 519 Walnut St., Columbia, PA 17512 on Thursday evening from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. and at the church one hour prior to the service. Kindly omit flowers. Memorial contributions in Larry's name can be made to Concordia Lutheran Church or Hospice and Community Care, PO Box 4125, Lancaster, PA 17604 or at www.hospiceandcommunitycare.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.

Ronald W. Kendig

A memorial service will be held at St. Paul's Lutheran Church, 222 N. George St., Millersville, PA on Friday, August 11, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. with the Rev. Mark S. Kopp, officiating.

Ronald W. Kendig, 72 of Lancaster passed away on July 25, 2023 at Hamilton Arms Center. He was the husband of the late Susan Keller Kendig. Born in Lancaster, he was the son of the late Richard S. and Janet Fellenbaum Kendig.

Ron graduated from Penn Manor High School and worked as a self-employed contractor. In addition, he was a member of the Millersville V.F.W Post 7294.

He is survived by his children, Christopher husband of Crosby (Kopp) Kendig; Nicole wife of Jim Marino; grandchildren Camden Kendig, Devin and Nicholas Marino and a brother, Richard husband of Rose Kendig.

A memorial service will be held at St. Paul's Lutheran Church, 222 N. George St., Millersville, PA on Friday, August 11, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. with the Rev. Mark S. Kopp, officiating. There will be no viewing, however the family will receive guests one hour prior to the service.


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.

Karen M. Von Stetten

She loved cooking for her family, all things Elvis and rooting for the Hershey Bears in which she held season tickets for 49 years.

A memorial service will be held at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc., Columbia, PA on Saturday, August 12, 2023 at 11:00 a.m.

Karen M. Von Stetten, 79 of Columbia passed away on Friday, August 4, 2023 at the Bob Fryer & Family Inpatient Center. A lifelong Columbia resident, she was the daughter of the late Martin C., Sr. and Clara Fisher Von Stetten.

A Columbia High School graduate Class of 1962, she was employed for more than 25 years at the former Columbia News where she worked as a typesetter. Karen later retired from the Jay H. Lutz Insurance Company. A member of the Columbia United Methodist Church, she loved cooking for her family, all things Elvis and rooting for the Hershey Bears in which she held season tickets for 49 years.

Karen is survived by her siblings, Roy E. husband of Janet Weitzel; Martin C., Jr. husband of Rebecca Von Stetten; Donna S. Von Stetten; Deborah A. Von Stetten; Edward C. husband of Beverly Von Stetten many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews. She was preceded in death by her brother John E. Von Stetten and sister Martha L. “Marti” Von Stetten.

A memorial service will be held at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc. 519 Walnut St., Columbia, PA on Saturday, August 12, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. with the Rev. Tom Grubbs, officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hospice and Community Care, PO Box 4125, Lancaster, PA 17601 or at: www.hospiceandcommunitycare.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.

Harry M. "Barney" Bartch, IV

Memorial service: Thursday, August 10, 2023 at 11:00 am at Hosanna! A Fellowship of Christians Church in Lititz

Harry M. “Barney” Bartch, IV, 51, of Lititz, passed away on Friday, August 4, 2023. Born in Columbia, he was the son of Earl P. Jr. and Sarah (Resch) Graham. 

Barney was known to be a happy and peaceful person. He enjoyed listening to music, and in particular loved Veggie Tales. He was known for his favorite phrase, “oh boy”. 

In addition to his parents, Barney is survived by his sister, Tiffany Bartch; his nephew, Tyjoun Romero; and his entire Friendship Community family. 

There will be a memorial service celebrating Barney’s life on Thursday, August 10, 2023 at 11:00 am at Hosanna! A Fellowship of Christians Church, 29 Green Acre Road, Lititz. The family will receive friends starting at 10:00 am. In lieu of flowers, contributions to Friendship Community, 1149 East Oregon Road, Lititz, PA 17543.

The family would like to express their deepest appreciation to Friendship Community for their impeccable care and devotion to Barney during his time with them. The entire staff routinely went above and beyond in the exceptional care they provided. A special expression of gratitude is extended to Alene, who was a genuine brother and guardian angel on earth to Barney for over 30 years.


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.

Annette M. Loraw

She was a devoted and caring mother who adored her family and treasured spending time with them.

A time of fellowship in celebration and remembrance: 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. on Thursday, August 3, 2023 at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, 519 Walnut St, Columbia, PA.

Annette Marie Loraw, 69, of Columbia passed away on July 29, 2023 following an extended illness. She was born in Lancaster to Mary and the late Victor Salvatore and was a lifelong resident of this area.

Annette was a graduate of Columbia High School with the Class of 1972. She was a devoted and caring mother who adored her family and treasured spending time with them. Annette was a faithful parishioner of Holy Trinity Catholic Church.

Annette leaves behind her children, Steph Loraw of Columbia, Laine Loraw of Columbia, Mark, husband of Holly Loraw of Chambersburg; seven grandchildren, Olivia, Jocelyn, Trevor, Cecilia, Payton, Monroe, and Russell; her sister, Pat Bender of Columbia; niece, Cyn Bender of Columbia.

A time of fellowship in celebration and remembrance of Annette will be held from 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. on Thursday, August 3, 2023 at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, 519 Walnut St, Columbia, PA 17512. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Our Lady of the Angels Catholic School, 404 Cherry St, Columbia, PA 17512


Send a Condolence

If you would like to send a condolence message to a family please fill out the form below and we will deliver it to them.

Charles E. Dorwart, Jr.

Services for Charlie will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, August 3, 2023 at St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, 616 Locust St, Columbia.

Charles E. Dorwart, Jr. passed away on July 26, 2023 at his home in Columbia, PA, surrounded by loved ones, at the age of 86. Charlie was a devoted husband, caring father, pap and uncle. He was an avid photographer and enjoyed all things airborne, including being an amateur backyard astronomer. Graduating with the Class of 1954 from J.P. McCaskey High School, he then served in the U.S. Air Force during the Cuban Missile Crisis and continued his love of aircraft throughout his life by attending airshows as often as he could. Charlie retired from Tyco (formerly Amp) as a designer, working hard for 33 years where he started as a draftsman. His favorite thing in life, though, was spending time with family. Whether it was sharing his love of planes at airshows with his grandchildren, going on trips to the bay to crab and fish, especially with his son Mark, or just eating pasta together and reminiscing at home.

Charles was the son of the late Charles, Sr. and Dorothy Frederick Dorwart. Charlie is survived by his wife, Goldie J. Hooper Dorwart, with whom they almost reached 57 happy years of marriage. His step children are Terry Foster, Janie Droege, and preceded in death by Susan and Mark Brommer. Charlie was the brother of Betty (wife of Don Maile), Doris Hill, and Donald (husband of Song) Dorwart. He is also survived by three grandchildren, Lisa Weaver, Jennifer and Thomas R. Droege as well as three great grandchildren, two great-great grandchildren and an uncle to numerous.

Services for Charlie will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, August 3, 2023 at St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, 616 Locust St, Columbia, PA 17512. The family will receive friends for visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. until service time. Burial will follow at Silver Spring Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Gentiva Foundation, 1891 Santa Barbara Dr, Suite 201, Lancaster, PA 17601 or www.gentivahs.com. Arrangements by the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc. Columbia/Landisville 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.

Wayne M. Lentz

There will be no formal services for Wayne and any future services will be announced by his family. 

Wayne Lentz, 64, of West Hempfield passed away on July 20, 2023. He was born in Lancaster to Anna Phillips and the late Richard Lentz and was a lifelong resident of this area. Wayne attended Pequea Valley High School and worked as a welder and most recently with the Manheim Auto Auction. He enjoyed riding his motorcycle and hunting in earlier years. Wayne was a loving son, husband, father, grandfather, brother, and uncle who adored his family and treasured spending time with them.

Wayne leaves behind his wife of twenty-five years Michele Lentz of West Hempfield; two sons, Brandon, husband of Nikki Lentz of Berks County, Nick Lister of Wrightsville; four grandchildren, Carter, Kayla, Victoria, and Erik; his mother, Anna Phillips of Paradise; two sisters, Honey-Ann, wife of John Soltis of Paradise, Jean Phillips of Paradise; five nieces and nephews, Anthony, Hunter, Bryce, McKenzie, and Aubrey. In addition to his father, he was preceded in death by his step-father Harry Phillips and a brother, Rick Lentz. 

There will be no formal services for Wayne and any future services will be announced by his family. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Ann B. Barshinger Cancer Institute, 2102 Harrisburg Pike, Lancaster, PA 17601. Arrangements by the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc. Columbia/Landisville


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.

Linda Lee (Everly) Keim

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Holy Trinity Catholic Church 409 Cherry Street, Columbia, PA 17512 at 11:00 AM on Friday, August 4th with graveside service to follow at Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens in Columbia, PA. 

Linda (Everly) Keim, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully at age 79.  Linda was surrounded by her loving family and entered into eternal peace on July 14, 2023.  She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Cornelius “Skip” Keim in 2020.

Linda was born in Lewistown, PA, to the late Harry W. Everly and Mary (Klinger) Everly Powell. She graduated from Chief Logan High School in 1961 and was an insurance underwriter for most of her career.

Linda enjoyed life. She loved spending time with her family; she cherished holidays, family vacations, and other family celebrations. She enjoyed 57 years of marriage with the love of her life, Skip. Linda was an avid tennis player, enjoyed playing golf, and loved playing cards and board games with family.  She was also proud to be a Bridge Life Master and played for many years at the Camp Hill Bridge Club.  Linda and Skip were members of Good Shepherd Catholic Church.

Linda is survived by her three children; Letitia Luvison (Tom), of Lewisberry, PA; Neal Keim (Donna-Jean), of Cary, NC; Janice Duquette (Dave), of Reading, PA; and eight grandchildren; Kyle Luvison (Samantha), Emily Luvison Khan (Hassan), Sara Luvison Hoover (Seth); Joshua and Matthew Keim; Derek Capel-Duquette (Tyler), Isaac Duquette (Jenny), and Nathan Duquette; and three great-grandchildren, Kennedy, Reagan and Grant Luvison. She is also survived by two sisters Kay Geedy and Brenda Wileman; and three brothers; Harry Everly, Charles Powell and Scott Powell; and several nieces and nephews.

Linda was also preceded in death by her parents Harry W. Everly and Mary (Klinger) Everly Powell, her stepfather Charles Powell, and her brother Mark Powell.

Linda’s family would like to express their thanks to the caregivers at Country Meadows of Mechanicsburg, PA and Grane Hospice Care for their compassion and kindness.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Holy Trinity Catholic Church 409 Cherry Street, Columbia, PA 17512 at 11:00 AM on Friday, August 4th with graveside service to follow at Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens in Columbia, PA. 

In lieu of flowers, donations in Linda’s memory may be made to the American Cancer Society.  Arrangements handled by Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Columbia/Landisville.


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.

Fannie Mae Landis Charles

She loved to sing and her smile was always evident.

funeral services: Mellinger Mennonite Church, 1916 Lincoln Highway East, Lancaster PA 17602 on Tuesday July 25, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. Friends may view at the church on Tuesday from 9:30 a.m. until the time of service.

Burial will be private in Habecker Mennonite Cemetery.

Fannie Mae Landis Charles, 91, 125 S. Donerville Road Lancaster PA 17603 passed on to be with Jesus Wednesday, July 19, 2023 at Landis Homes. Born in West Lampeter Township, she was the daughter of the late Sanford and Hettie Herr Landis. She was the loving wife of 22 years to Pastor Paul K. Charles and was known to many as Aunt Fannie.

 She loved to sing and her smile was always evident. Above all, she loved Jesus and expressed that through her genuine love for people. She was well known for quilting and crocheting afghans. She was a member of Mellinger Mennonite Church where she taught girls Sunday School and summer Bible School classes. She enjoyed traveling and served on mission trips to New York City.

She was employed by Central Market, Erza Martin Meats and retired from Farmers Supply after 25 years of service.

The family wishes to express their appreciation to the staff of Landis Homes for their care and support of Fannie.

In addition to her husband, she is survived by her step children, Lois A. wife of the late John S. Blake; Ellen M. Aronson; Miriam L. Hubbard; Dorothy L. wife of Timothy Webster; Mary J. wife of Andrew Radesky; Nancy L. wife of William Rexroad; Paul E. husband of Marilyn Charles; David L. husband of Lynda Charles; Carl L. husband of Mary Charles; 19 step grandchildren; 34 step great grandchildren; 1 step great great granddaughter and brother John H. husband of Kathryn Landis. She was preceded in death by her sister, Dorothy H. Charles former wife of 48 years of Paul, I. Elizabeth Breneman, brothers David H. Landis, Sanford H. Landis, stepson Mervin L. Charles and step granddaughter Melissa Rexroad.

Funeral services will be held at the Mellinger Mennonite Church, 1916 Lincoln Highway East, Lancaster PA 17602 on Tuesday July 25, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Dan Cloyd and Pastor Roger Weaver officiating. Friends may view at the church on Tuesday from 9:30 a.m. until the time of service. Burial will be private in Habecker Mennonite Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Mellinger Mennonite Church or to the Landis Homes Caring Fund, c/o Landis Homes, 1001 E. Oregon Road, Lititz PA 17543.


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.

Ruth N. Faus

In honor of Ruth’s wishes, there will be no formal services.

Ruth N. Faus, 87, of Columbia, passed away on Friday, July 14, 2023 at home. Born in Columbia, she was the daughter of the late Charles and Sara Ott Kriner. She was the wife of the late Samuel F. Faus.

Ruth worked as a motor inspector at R&S Candies for 30 years and was a member of the Amvets post 153. She loved to cook and bake, and was known for owning Springer Spaniels, of which she owned 16 over the course of her life. Christianity was incredibly important to Ruth; she was a member of the Assembly of God church.

Ruth is survived by her sons, Terrence (Missy) Faus, Samuel F. Faus, III, and Randy Faus; a daughter, Pamela Gochenour; five grandchildren and ten great grandchildren. In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by sons, Charles and Curtis Faus; and siblings, Joyce Lease, Carlisle Kriner, and Uncle Junior.

In honor of Ruth’s wishes, there will be no formal services. The family was assisted by the Clyde Kraft Funeral Home.


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.

Patricia Ann Alvelo

She loved shopping especially at Boscov’s, spending time with her family and doting on her grandchildren.

memorial service: Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc. columbia PA on Tuesday July 18, 2023 at 11:00 a.m.

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

Patricia Ann Alvelo, 67 of Windsor, passed away on Saturday, July 8, 2023 at UPMC Memorial Hospital. Born in Lancaster, she was the daughter of the late Grover Widener and Virginia Stiffler Webb and raised by her adopted parents Jesse James Keeney and Catherine Louise Keeney.

She retired from ITT Grinnell and loved shopping especially at Boscov’s, spending time with her family and doting on her grandchildren.

She is survived by her children, Shawn Keeney; James Keeney (Jennifer Roman); Shannon Keeney; Doug Keeney (Samantha Williamson); four grandchildren, Sydni Keeney, Kaylie Roman, Brianna Hayes, Isabella Crisamore; brothers, Garry Kauffman (Carol); Rick Stiffler (Sharon Sauder); David Stiffler; sisters, Deb Swift and Stephanie Heath (Chuck). She was preceded in death by her late fiancé Richard “Rick” Ross and siblings, Sandy Baldwin, David Jones, Dennis Stiffler, Sue Faus, Frances Webb, Mike Stiffler and Ronnie Stiffler.

A memorial service will be held at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc. 519 Walnut St. Columbia PA on Tuesday July 18, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Steven Warner, officiating. There will be no viewing, however the family will receive family and friends one hour prior to the service. Memorial contributions in Patricia’s memory may be made to St. Jude’s Childrens Research Hospital.


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.

Charles E. Ailes, II.

A loving husband and father.

friends are invited to attend a memorial service at the Masonic Center, 213 E. Chestnut St., Lancaster, PA 17602 on Saturday July 15, 2023 at 2:00 p.m

Charles E. Ailes II, 69 of Lancaster, PA passed away peacefully on June 30, 2023 at the M.S Hershey Medical Center.

A loving husband and father he leaves behind his wife of 46 years Carmen and their two children daughter Erin Ailes, York, PA; son; Ben husband of Lauren Ailes, Havertown, PA; four grandchildren, Mackenzie, Ian, Rhys and Liam. His only sibling Eunice Fitzkee, Ocala, FL also survives. He was preceded in death by his father Charles E. Ailes and mother J. Eunice Ailes.

Charles graduated from York Suburban High School, Class of 1972 and Indiana University of Pennsylvania in 1976. He was employed as an account manager for several companies until his retirement in 2017. He was a longtime Mason and was a Past Master of Lodge 43 F.&A.M. In addition, he was a member of Grace U.C.C as well as First Reformed Church both in Lancaster.

Friends are invited to attend a memorial service at the Masonic Center, 213 E. Chestnut St., Lancaster, PA 17602 on Saturday July 15, 2023 at 2:00 p.m. with Chaplain Kenneth Hudson, Sr. officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to a Masonic charity or the charity 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.

John C. Lauver

He was an outdoorsman who loved hunting, fishing, and visiting his cabin in the mountains of Perry County.

A time of fellowship in celebration and remembrance of John will be held from 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, July 11, 2023 at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, 519 Walnut St, Columbia, PA.

John “Crawdad” Lauver, 60, of Maytown passed away on July 5, 2023. He was born in Lancaster to the late Robert and Velma Lauver and was a lifelong resident of this area.

John attended Donegal High School and worked as a self-employed painter. He was an outdoorsman who loved hunting, fishing, and visiting his cabin in the mountains of Perry County. He especially looked forward to his yearly weeklong turkey hunting trip with his friend. John was also an avid baker. He was a loving brother and uncle who adored his family and treasured spending time with them.

John leaves behind his siblings, Don, husband of Marie Lauver of Elizabethtown, Donna, wife of Rick Vogel of Washington Boro, Gay Fackler of York, Bobby Lauver of Maytown; four nieces and nephews, Melissa, Brian, Jeffrey, and Logan; a large extended family and many friends. He was preceded in death by his parents.

A time of fellowship in celebration and remembrance of John will be held from 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, July 11, 2023 at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, 519 Walnut St, Columbia, PA 17512. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation Ducks Unlimited, P.O. Box 5010, Boone, IA 50590 or www.ducks.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.

Ruth N. Roth

Ruth cherished her family and enjoyed many fun filled summers with them at Ocean City, NJ.

Celebration of Ruth’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 13, 2023 at Calvary Church, 1051 Landis Valley Rd, Lancaster, PA 17601. The family will receive friends for visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. until service time.

Burial will be private and she will be laid to rest at Landisville Mennonite Cemetery

Ruth Roth, 92, of Lancaster passed away on July 3, 2023. She was born in Chapmans Quarry to the late John and Ruth Young.

Ruth was a graduate of Nazareth High School with the Class of 1948. She then became a registered nurse after graduating from Thomas Jefferson School of Nursing in 1951. During her career she served as nurse with Thomas Jefferson Hospital, Penn State University Infirmary, and York Hospital before guiding her home and raising her children.

Ruth loved the Lord and served for many years by teaching Good News Clubs through Child Evangelism Fellowship of Lancaster County and participating in activities of the Landisville Camp Meeting Association. She attended Lancaster Bible College classes at night. Ruth was generous with her time and resources and provided support and companionship to those who needed it. She attended Calvary Church in Lancaster.

Ruth cherished her family and enjoyed many fun filled summers with them at Ocean City, NJ. While there, she liked to attend the Ocean City Tabernacle where she could hear speakers from all over the country.

Ruth leaves behind her husband of seventy-one years Harry Roth; three daughters, Ann, wife of Dirk Hagen, Sarah, wife of the late James Lindhome, Mary Roth; five grandchildren, Kathryn, wife of Mark Moskovitz, Carrie Hagen, Amy, wife of Ryan Curley, Peter Lindhome, Andrew Lindhome, husband of Samantha; five great grandsons. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by two brothers and a sister.

A Celebration of Ruth’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 13, 2023 at Calvary Church, 1051 Landis Valley Rd, Lancaster, PA 17601. The family will receive friends for visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. until service time. Burial will be private and she will be laid to rest at Landisville Mennonite Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Child Evangelism Fellowship, 5307 Main St, East Petersburg, PA 17520 (www.ceflancaster.org) or Water Street Mission, 210 S. Prince St, Lancaster, Pennsylvania 17603 (www.wsm.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.

Melvin A. "Skip" Frantz

Skip was an avid Philadelphia Phillies and Penn State football fan.

T Skip’s request, there will be no public viewing.  Burial will be private at the convenience of the family.

Melvin A. “Skip” Frantz of Mount Joy, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Saturday, June 24, 2023, at the age of 80. Born in Lebanon, PA on November 2, 1942, Skip was the only child of the late Melvin W. Frantz and Sarah J. (Kale) Frantz. He was married to his beloved wife, Sandra K. (Hanna) with whom he would have celebrated 59 years of marriage this November.

After graduating from Hempfield High School in 1960, entered the U.S. Air Force and then went on to work for more than 32 years as a rural mail carrier until his retirement from the Columbia Post Office in 2001.  The year of his retirement he was awarded the “Million Mile Safe Driving Award” which promoted both longevity on the job as well as his accident free driving record for the length of his career.

Following his retirement, Skip worked as a custodian at the Columbia Junior/Senior High School and later worked part-time as a bagger at Giant in Elizabethtown, PA.

In addition to his parents, Skip was preceded in death by his son Scott M. Frantz.  He is survived by his wife Sandra K. Frantz; daughter Michele S. Phillips, wife of Christopher S. Phillips, Fayetteville, PA; grandchildren Larissa K., wife of Joshua Mann, Columbia, PA, Katrina M., wife of Michael Hotaling, Reading, PA, Derek P. Frantz, Louisville, Kentucky, and Katherine L. Phillips, Nathan C. Phillips, and Andrew J. Phillips, Fayetteville, PA; and 6 great-grandchildren.

Skip was an avid Philadelphia Phillies and Penn State football fan.

At Skip’s request, there will be no public viewing.  Burial will be private at the convenience of the 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.

Charles Edwin Swisher, III.

Ed was the founding partner of Sager, Swisher & Co. in 1974 and retired in 2008. He was a valued and generous member of the community, serving on numerous boards.

service: Clyde W. Kraft Funeral home, 519 Walnut St., Columbia, PA 17512, on Saturday, July 8, at 11 a.m. There will be no public viewing; however, the family will receive family and friends one hour prior to the service.

A private burial will follow the service.

Charles Edwin Swisher III, 81, passed away on July 1, 2023 after a battle with cancer. Better known as "Ed," he was a respected Certified Public Accountant and friend to many in Lancaster and York Counties.

He was the loving husband of Carmen Lorraine (Hanlon) Swisher, to whom he was married for 62 years. Born in Columbia, he was raised by his grandparents, Margaret Elizabeth and George Bell. He was the son of the late Rheta (Bell) Mackison and Vincent Mackison. His father was the late Charles Edwin Swisher II.

He studied accounting at Franklin & Marshall College, graduating with honors in 1965. He graduated from Columbia High School, class of 1960, where his met his wife Carmen.

He was the founding partner of Sager, Swisher & Co. in 1974 and retired in 2008. Ed was a valued and generous member of the community, serving on numerous boards, including the Columbia Healthcare Foundation, Columbia Education Foundation, Columbia Economic Development Corporation, and Columbia Hospital. He was on the board of the former Columbia Jaycees and a president and member of the former Columbia Rotary Club. He was the trusted accountant and advisor for hundreds of local businesses and non-profit organizations.

Since he was a child, he had a passion for raising poultry and shared the hobby on his farm with his children, grandchild, nephews and neighbors. He also raised vizlas, and had a special place in his heart for his dog, Princess.

In addition to Carmen, Ed is survived by his daughters, Jennifer Lynn Gross of Windsor and Peggy Swisher of Brooklyn, NY; their husbands, Dodd Gross and Chris Slowik; and his granddaughter, Cassie Slowik. Ed was a devoted and proud father to Jenny and Peggy, and delighted in his role as Gramps to Cassie. He is also survived by his nephews Tony and Jimmy Fatta, who he enjoyed taking fishing as boys; his half-sister Vinnie Mackison, his half-brother Peter Swisher, and his half-sisters, Tina Swisher and Sally Ferrara. He was preceded in death by his sister Margie Fatta.

A service will be held at Clyde W. Kraft Funeral home, 519 Walnut St., Columbia, PA 17512, on Saturday, July 8, at 11 a.m. There will be no public viewing; however, the family will receive family and friends one hour prior to the service. A private burial will follow the service.

In lieu of flowers, we ask that you donate to PA Caring for K-9s (https://www.pack9rescue.org/) in his memory, where Ed rescued his dog Haley six months ago.


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.

Shirley L. Marcello

Her hobbies included tending to her flower garden and making crafts.

Mass of Christian Burial: Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Columbia, PA on Friday, July 7, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. There will be no public viewing; the family will receive friends one hour prior to the mass.

Burial will follow in St. Peter Catholic Cemetery.

Shirley L. (Resch) Marcello, 89, of Columbia, passed away on June 30, 2023 after a brief illness. She was the wife of the late Louis D. Marcello, with whom she was married 51 years until his passing in 2008. Born in Columbia, she was the daughter of the late Joseph R. and Clara Burgess Resch.

A Columbia High School graduate, class of 1952, she was employed as a secretary at the former Olmstead AFB before becoming a stay-at-home mom. Shirley was a longtime member of Holy Trinity Catholic Church and her hobbies included tending to her flower garden and making crafts. She also enjoyed spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren and great grandchildren.

She is survived by her sons, Gregory L. Marcello (late Stacey Cover) and Jeffrey L. Marcello (Stacy Huber); grandchildren, Nicole, Jared, Jennifer, Cody, and Josie; great grandchildren, Renae, Hallie, and Maddie; and sisters, Doris Schmidt and Barbara Austin, along with many nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by ten siblings, Anna, Martha, Margaret, Joseph, Agnes, Charles, Betty, Carolyn, Francis, and an infant sister Jeanette.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 409 Cherry St., Columbia, PA on Friday, July 7, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. with the Rev. Daniel C. Mitzal, Celebrant. Burial will follow in St. Peter Catholic Cemetery. There will be no public viewing; however, the family will receive friends one hour prior to the mass. Kindly omit flowers. If desired, contributions in Shirley's memory may be made to Hospice and Community Care at www.hospiceandcommunitycare.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.

Ira K. "Bud" Hogentogler

Services for Bud will take place at 11:00 AM on Thursday, June 29, 2023 at Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home in Columbia.

Ira K. “Bud” Hogentogler went home to be with the Lord on Friday, June 23, 2023 at home. He was born in Marietta to the late Stuard and Betty Roberts Hogentogler. He attended Columbia High School and proudly served in the U.S. Marine Corps. 

Bud was a family man. To him, family was absolutely everything. He enjoyed family dinners, hunting and fishing, making people laugh, and watching Philadelphia Phillies and Eagles.

Bud is survived by his loving wife of 61 years, Janet (Sload) Hogentogler, 5 children: Tina Hoefel (Bob), Wayne (Susan), Robbie, Jodi Mullins (Terry), and Stephanie Randolph (Tom); 6 grandchildren, 3 great-grandchildren, 2 brothers, Steve and Dave, and 1 sister, Kim. 

Services for Bud will take place at 11:00 AM on Thursday, June 29, 2023 at Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home in Columbia. There will be a viewing one hour prior to the service. Interment will follow at Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens with Military Honors. In lieu of flowers, kindly consider a donation to American Diabetes Association, P.O. Box 7023, Merrifield, VA  22116-7023 or diabetes.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.

Beverly J. Sheetz

Services for Beverly will be held privately by her family.

Beverly J. Sheetz, 58, of Columbia passed away peacefully at her home on June 20, 2023. She lived in Columbia all her life and was a homebody. Beverly’s children and grandchildren were her world. She enjoyed spending time with her family and friends. Beverly had a gypsy soul. She loved jammin’ to Stevie Nicks and singing karaoke. Bev was a great listener and always gave good advice. 

In addition to her mother, Esther Yost and her father, Daniel F. Yost, Sr., Beverly is preceded in death by a few other loved ones and her fur babies MoeMoe, Jip Jip and Butter Boo. 

In addition to her sister, Ann Jones, spouse of Ralph Jones, Beverly is survived by her brother, Daniel Yost, husband of Cheri, her sons, Christopher M. Sheetz, Jr., h/o Helen, and Jeremy Sheetz; her grandchildren, Daniel King and Chris III, four nieces Heather Lil Sis, Amanda Moo, Brittany Williams, Avalyn Jade, many nieces and nephews, along with her partner of 15 years, Tammi McCrea and her daughter Bonnie Cole. 

Services for Beverly will be held privately 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.

Thomas R. Weaver

Family and friends are invited to attend a memorial service at the VFW in Columbia on Saturday, June 24 from 11AM-3PM

Thomas R. Weaver, 72, of Columbia, passed away on Wednesday, June 14, 2023 at home. He was the husband of Terri Weaver with whom he was married 44 years. Born in Ephrata, he was the son of the late Sarah Irene Smith.

Thomas proudly served his country in the US Army during the Vietnam War as a Sgt in the 128th Assault Helicopter. He received awards for being the youngest Sergeant at the age of 17 and for being the first person to call from one country to another via radio. He received two honorable discharges in 1971. He worked at Thompson 60 Case, Lancaster for 24 years as a maintenance supervisor until they closed, then Eastern Drillers, Columbia until he retired in 2015. He enjoyed beach trips, attending his grandchildren’s sporting events, and spending time with his family, friends, his Frenchie Roxy, and two cats Ace and Shadow.

In addition to his wife, Thomas is survived by his children, Samantha Nell; Amanda, wife of Bo Campbell; Vanessa, wife of Bobby Reese Sr., all of Columbia; seven grandchildren: Dale, Derek, Dominick, Amelia, Stoudamire, Gavin, and Bobby Jr.; and one sister, Jane Murry of Ephrata. His sister, Diana Smith, and brother, Samual Smith, Jr. preceded him in death.

Family and friends are invited to attend a memorial service at the VFW in Columbia on Saturday, June 24 from 11AM-3PM. There will be full Military Honors taking place at 12PM outside. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to DPAA (www.dpaa.mil), which is an organization dedicated to recovering the remains of POW/MIA from Vietnam, or to the Wounded Warrior Project. Arrangements by Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Columbia/Landisville.


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.