She had a love for all animals, enjoyed jazz music, corny comedies, National Geographic, and studying the Word.

Services for Nancy will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, February 13, 2026 at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, 519 Walnut St, Columbia, PA 17512.

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

Burial will follow at Mount Pisgah Cemetery in Wrightsville.

Nancy L. Poindexter, 87, of Columbia passed away on January 28, 2026. She was born in Columbia to the late William and Heather Brown and was a lifelong resident of Columbia.

Nancy attended Columbia High School and held various positions for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania’s then Department of Public Welfare, retiring as Director for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program. She had a love for all animals, enjoyed jazz music, corny comedies, National Geographic, and studying the Word. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, and aunt who adored her family. Nancy was a faithful member of St. Paul’s Baptist Church.

Nancy leaves behind six children, Burke Poindexter of York, Lydia Poindexter, wife of Robert Martin of Los Angeles, CA, Leroy Poindexter, Jr. of Fayetteville, NC, Cary Poindexter of Columbia, Merce Poindexter of Atlanta, GA, Dorothy Poindexter of Columbia; ten grandchildren and seventeen great grandchildren; her caretaker/grandson Langston Poindexter of Columbia; niece, Cheryl Jelks of Lancaster; sister-in-law Vivian Colón of Columbia; brother-in-law Gerald, husband of Elaine Poindexter of Buellton, CA; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and a large extended family; her close friend, Cheryl Andrews of Columbia. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband Leroy Poindexter, Sr. in 2002; a sister, Marie Brown; a grandson, Michael Poindexter; two daughters-in-law, Lorna and Bessie Poindexter.

Services for Nancy will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, February 13, 2026 at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, 519 Walnut St, Columbia, PA 17512. The family will receive friends for visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. until service time. Burial will follow at Mount Pisgah Cemetery in Wrightsville. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to St. Paul’s Baptist Church, 297 S. 5th 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.

He was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed fishing, camping, gardening, and grilling.

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

Christopher Leo Hilgert, III “Jim”, 69, of Columbia passed away on February 1, 2026. He was born in Columbia to the late Christopher, Jr. and Barbara Bears Hilgert and was a lifelong resident of this area.

Chris attended Columbia High School and worked with the former ITT Grinnell and Colonial Metals until his retirement. He was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed fishing, camping, gardening, and grilling. Chris was a loving companion, father, grandfather, great grandfather, and friend.

Chris leaves behind his companion of twenty-eight years Deb Moody of Columbia; Three children, Kristin, wife of Jeremy Watson of Frederick County, MD, Tammy, wife of Scott Trace of Lancaster, James, husband of Tas Murphy of Marietta; seven grandchildren, Wesley, Bradley, Britaney (Allen), James, Alyssa (John), Alexander (Rory), Andrew (Reagan); three great grandchildren, Kinsley, Brantley, and Zen; five siblings, Tim Hilgert, Christine Fausnight, Mary Hardee, Mike Hilgert, Pat Hilgert; numerous nieces and nephews; his best friend – Smitty; his canine companion Violet; many friends. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two siblings, Deb Lehman and Jay Hilgert.

In honor of Chris’ final wishes there will be no formal services and any future services will be announced by his family. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the American Heart Association, 4250 Crums Mill Rd, Harrisburg, PA 17112.

---

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.

Jack spent his entire life in Columbia where he served the community as a founding member of the former Columbia Community Ambulance, as Chief of the former Vigilant Fire Company, and where he raised his family with his wife.

Mass of Christian Burial will be offered on Friday, February 6, 2026 at 10:30 a.m. at Saint Peter Catholic Church, 121 S. Second St. Columbia PA 17512. Burial will follow with full military honors in St. Peter Catholic Cemetery.

There will be no viewing before Mass, however family and friends may call upon the Brommer family at Kraft Funeral Home, Inc. 519 Walnut St. Columbia PA 17512 on Thursday, February 5, 2026 from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m., with a prayer service taking place at 7:45 p.m

Jack R. Brommer, Sr., died January 31, 2026. Born August 5, 1949, in Columbia Hospital, he was the ninth and youngest child of the late William and Esther (Schmook) Brommer. He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Rose M. (Foehlinger) and his siblings Esther, Margaret, Janet, Wilma, William, Mary Lou, and Joanne.

A 1968 graduate of Columbia High School, Jack proudly served his country in the United States Navy with the rank of 3rd Class Petty Office where he learned his lifelong trade as an electrician. Except for his time in military service, Jack spent his entire life in Columbia where he served the community as a founding member of the former Columbia Community Ambulance, as Chief of the former Vigilant Fire Company, and where he raised his family with his wife. Until his retirement in 2009, he was the Superintendent of Electrical Maintenance at Alcoa in Lancaster, where he had worked for 37 years. He spent his retirement briefly working for the Columbia School District, enjoying his time with grandchildren, and volunteering for Columbia Meals on Wheels. He could be seen monitoring the Susquehanna River at the Columbia Riverpark most days.

He married Rose Foehlinger on April 25, 1970 and spent 50 years never failing to bring her flowers, hold her hand, open her car door, and kiss her goodbye when he left the house. He worked proudly and diligently at times taking a second job at Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, to provide his children with a home where they were never in want, the benefits of a Catholic Education, and an annual vacation to Ocean City, Maryland.

He was a member of the Moose, Wrightsville American Legion, and the South Fairview Rod and Gun Club where he enjoyed many years of hunting and camaraderie.

His family church was Saint John Lutheran Church, Columbia, where he was baptized and raised in the Christian faith, serving that community as a member of the church council and a Communion server at the Saturday evening service. Later in life he was received into the Catholic Church by his son, joining his wife at Saint Peter Church, Columbia.

Jack leaves as his legacy three children who were formed by his virtue of service to others: Jack R. Brommer, Jr. and his wife Julie, Jill R. Bryant and her husband Kevin, and Rev. Joshua R. Brommer. To the next generation, his grandchildren, he has left memories of being celebrated and loved: Elizabeth, Brittany, Lauren, Kevin, Katy, and Sophia. He will also be fondly remembered by his sister Linda Cramer, numerous nieces and nephews, cherished friends, and everyone at Hinkle’s Restaurant and Columbia Family Restaurant. In his last years Jack was blessed by a friendship with Deb Landers.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered on Friday, February 6, 2026 at 10:30 a.m. at Saint Peter Catholic Church, 121 S. Second St. Columbia PA 17512. Burial will follow with full military honors in St. Peter Catholic Cemetery. There will be no viewing before Mass, however family and friends may call upon the Brommer family at Kraft Funeral Home, Inc. 519 Walnut St. Columbia PA 17512 on Thursday, February 5, 2026 from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m., with a prayer service taking place at 7:45 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Columbia Fire Department.

---

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.

Steve Denlinger will be remembered as a man of love, humor, and joy—one who dedicated years to the well-being of others and his heart to the family he loved so dearly.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a future date.

Lester “Stephen” Denlinger of Lancaster, Pennsylvania passed away on January 31, 2026 at the age of 74, leaving behind a legacy of service and a family he adored. He was born on October 23, 1951 and graduated from McCaskey High School in 1969.

Steve’s truest joy was being surrounded by those he loved. He was a man who believed that family was life’s greatest achievement. Steve is survived by his devoted wife, Anita Denlinger, who stood by his side through every season of life. His legacy continues through his children Heather (Mike) Barton, Megan (Tim) Shifflett, and Chad Denlinger, Esq.

Steve also leaves behind his brother, Randy (Linda) Denlinger, and two nieces, Samantha Schlouch and Ellie Denlinger. He was preceded in death by his parents, Lester and Elsie Denlinger, and his sister, Dolores Denlinger.

Nothing brought a smile to Steve’s face quite like the chaos and laughter of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Whether he was sharing a story, inciting silliness, or simply watching them play, those moments were the highlights of his later years. He was the proud grandfather of 8 grandchildren: Cortney Denlinger, Tony Barton, Cody Gainer, Nick Barton, Gage Barton, Henry Shifflett, Tyler Shifflett, and Dylan Shifflett. His joy was further multiplied by his 8 great-grandchildren.

Steve’s professional life was defined by his decades of unwavering commitment to saving lives and advancing the field of pre-hospital care. Over a long and distinguished tenure in Emergency Medical Services (EMS), Steve’s influence was felt across the county. He served with distinction in various roles, most notably as a Director, where his strategic vision helped shape local emergency response protocols.

Steve also passionately served as an EMT instructor. He spent decades mentoring the next generation of first responders, instilling in them not just the technical skills required for the job, but the composure and compassion necessary to serve people in their darkest hours. His impact on the Lancaster County EMS community is immeasurable, and Steve continued to take pride in reconnecting with former colleagues and mentees.

Steve Denlinger will be remembered as a man of love, humor, and joy—one who dedicated years to the well-being of others and his heart to the family he loved so dearly. A Celebration of Life will be held at a future date.

---

Send a Condolence

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

She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, great great grandmother, sister, and aunt who adored her family.

All future services for Doris will be private and she will be laid to rest with her late husband at St. Peter Catholic Cemetery in Columbia.

Doris M. Smith, 100, of Columbia passed away on January 22, 2026. She was born in Columbia to the late Charles and Jane Mcullough McClair and was a lifelong resident of Columbia.

Doris was a graduate of Columbia High School with the Class of 1943 and was a manager at Hinkle’s Pharmacy for many years and also a teller at the former Hamilton Bank until her retirement in 1986. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, great great grandmother, sister, and aunt who adored her family and treasured spending time with them. Doris was a member of LCBC Church in Manheim.

Doris leaves behind five children, Mary Jane, wife of Robert Demmy of Manheim, Donald, husband of Linda Smith of Columbia, Robert Smith, Jr. of Lititz, Louise White of Columbia, Debbie Ann, wife of Jeff Pelen of Columbia; seventeen grandchildren, forty-one great grandchildren, and one great great grandchild; a sister, Marie Libhart of Harrisburg; a daughter-in-law, Sharon Sahd of Strasburg. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Robert “Gener” Smith, Sr. in 1976; a son, Michael P. Smith; two siblings, Robert McClair, and Thomas Bryson.

All future services for Doris will be private and she will be laid to rest with her late husband at St. Peter Catholic Cemetery in Columbia. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Hospice and Community Care, 685 Good Dr, Lancaster, PA 17601.

---

Send a Condolence

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

She was a cook and waitress at numerous local restaurants where everyone knew her.

Funeral services will be held at Clyde Kraft Funeral Home, Inc., 519 Walnut Street, Columbia on Saturday, January 31, 2026 at 11 AM with a viewing from 10 AM until time of service.

Vivian Louise Birk Burg, of Columbia, passed away on Friday, January 23, 2026.  She was the wife of the late Charles "Tuke" Birk, Harry Birk and Jesse Burg. She was born in Roseland, Virginia, daughter of the late Rufus and Eliza Campbell.

She was a cook and waitress at numerous local restaurants where everyone knew her.

She is survived by her children, Lance (Bobby) Birk and Donna (Jeff) Swartz; two grandchildren, Joshua (Erin) Birk and Abby (Joshua) Wert; two great grandchildren, Jonah and Colin Birk; her sister, Barbara Keller and numerous nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her sisters, Juanita, Edith, Hazel, Rachel, and Evelyn and her brother, Herman.

The family would like to thank Columbia Meals on Wheels for delivering her meals and Amedisys Home Health and Hospice for the excellent service and care for the last few months.

Funeral services will be held at Clyde Kraft Funeral Home, Inc., 519 Walnut Street, Columbia on Saturday, January 31, 2026 at 11 AM with a viewing from 10 AM until time of service.  Chaplain Robert Barton from Amedisys Hospice will be officiating.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Columbia Meals on Wheels, PO Box 391, Columbia, PA 17512 or Amedisys Hospice of Lancaster, 480 New Holland Ave., Suite 6201, Lancaster, PA 17602.

---

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.

Donald was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and uncle who adored his family.

In honor of Donald's final wishes there will be no formal services.

Donald Lee Van Pelt, 78, of Marietta passed away on January 20, 2026. He was born in Deposit, NY to the late Edward, Jr. and Gertrude Bonker Van Pelt and lived in this area for the past fifty-six years.

Donald was a graduate of Deposit Central High School with the Class of 1967 and worked with Three Mile Island for eight years before going to work with Novinger's, Inc. for thirty years until his retirement. He was a member of the Bainbridge American Legion Post 197, lifetime member of the Susquehanna Beneficial Association, and Marietta Beneficial Association where he finally found his life's purpose and was a second home for him.

Donald was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and uncle who adored his family.

Donald leaves behind his wife of fifty-seven years Faye Van Pelt of Marietta; two sons, Donald "Skeet" Van Pelt, Jr. and Robert "Nip" Van Pelt both of Marietta; two grandchildren, Jacob Van Pelt of Elizabethtown and Kierstyn Van Pelt of Mount Joy; three siblings, Edward "Boz", husband of Joann Van Pelt of Bainbridge, NY, Deborah Van Pelt, wife of John Stiffler of Downsville, NY, Darlene, wife of Harry Warner of Deposit, NY; numerous nieces and nephews and a large extended family. In addition to his parent, he was preceded in death by his granddaughter Emily Rose Van Pelt and a brother, Dale Van Pelt.

In honor of Donald's final wishes there will be no formal services. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Pennsylvania SPCA Lancaster Center, 848 S. Prince St., Lancaster, PA 17603.

---

Send a Condolence

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

She and her husband Ken enjoyed traveling in their RV, trips to Atlantic City and she loved to play Bingo

memorial service: Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc. 519 Walnut St. Columbia PA on Wednesday, January 28, 2026 at 11:00 AM

Interment will follow in Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens.

MaryJane L. Geesey, 89 of Marietta passed away on Monday, January 19, 2026 at Susquehanna Health and Wellness. She was the wife of the late Kenneth D. Geesey, Sr. who passed away in 2023 and had been married 71 years. Born in Marietta, she was the daughter of the late George I. and Dorothy M. Breckline Yarnell.

She retired in 1991 after 18 years from Wyeth Laboratories where she filled medicine. She was a member of St. John's Episcopal Church, Marietta, Marietta Ladies Auxiliary and the L.O.O.M. Lodge 307, Columbia. She and her husband Ken enjoyed traveling in their RV, trips to Atlantic City and she loved to play Bingo. Their children and grandchildren were their everything.

She is survived by her daughter, Sandra wife of Drew Haubert, daughter-in-law Gwendolyn Geesey wife of the late Kenneth Geesey, Jr; seven grandchildren; seventeen great-grandchildren and six great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a brother Robert and two sisters Dorothy and Joanne.

A memorial service will be held from the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc. 519 Walnut St. Columbia PA on Wednesday, January 28, 2026 at 11:00 AM with the Rev. Mark S. Kopp, officiating. Interment will follow in Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Marietta Fire Co., 200 N. Waterford Ave., Marietta, PA 17547.

---

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 will be remembered for his endearing witty humor and sarcasm.

Services for Jim: 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, January 20, 2026 at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, 519 Walnut St, Columbia, PA 17512.

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

Burial will follow at Mount Bethel Cemetery in Columbia.

James “Jim” Clayton Wallace, 68, of Columbia passed away on January 11, 2026. He was born in Phillipsburg, PA to the late Raymond, Jr. and Hannah Wagner Wallace and lived most of his life in Columbia.

Jim was a graduate of Columbia High School with the Class of 1975 and worked with QVC until his retirement. He loved classic rock and attended many concerts. Jim will be remembered for his endearing witty humor and sarcasm. He was a loving son, brother, uncle and friend who adored his family and treasured spending time with them.

Jim leaves behind ten siblings, Linda Eck (Dwight), Diane Kline (Jacob), Betsy Brock (Denny), Boyd Wallace, Ray Wallace, III, Beverley Scholl (Paul), Lisa Taylor, Roger Wallace, Drew Wallace (Lisa), Brett Wallace; Numerous nieces and nephews and many friends. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two siblings, Victoria Roob and Kevin Wallace, Sr.

Services for Jim will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, January 20, 2026 at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, 519 Walnut St, Columbia, PA 17512. The family will receive friends for visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. until service time. Burial will follow at Mount Bethel Cemetery in Columbia.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to St Jude Children’s Research Hospital, American Cancer Society, or the American Heart Association.

---

Send a Condolence

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

In his earlier years he enjoyed playing basketball and baseball.

Graveside services will be held on Tuesday, January 20, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. in Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens.

Byron L. “Barry” Johnson, 78 of Columbia, passed away on Monday, January 12, 2026 at the Susquehanna Valley Nursing & Rehabilitation Center where he had resided since 2015. Born in Columbia, he was the son of the late Benjamin and Jane Mimnall Johnson.

Barry graduated from Columbia High School in 1965 and served stateside in the U.S.A.F. He retired from M & M Mars, Elizabethtown where he worked in the packaging department. In his earlier years he enjoyed playing basketball and baseball. He was a member of St. John Lutheran Church.

Graveside services will be held on Tuesday, January 20, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. in Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens with the Rev. Richard Whitesel, officiating.

If desired, memorial contributions may be made to the Parkinson’s Foundation at parkinsons.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.

Mildred’s hobbies included crocheting and other craft projects.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, at 1:00 PM in the Chapel of Holy Trinity Catholic Cemetery.

Mildred M. Sakal, 100 of Columbia, passed away peacefully on Friday, January 9, 2026, at Hospice and Community Care. She was the wife of the late Albert R. Sakal who preceded her in death in 2001. Born in Johnstown, she was the daughter of the late Clemens and Marie Krischer Klenner.

A homemaker, Mildred mostly worked as a homemaker but did work at the Navy Mine depot during the Second World War. She was a member of Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Columbia and her hobbies included crocheting and other craft projects.

She is survived by her daughter, Esther M., wife of Joseph Scholly; son, Dennis G., husband of Drenda Sakal; four grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, at 1:00 PM in the Chapel of Holy Trinity Catholic Cemetery with the Rev. Mark Wilke, officiating.

---

Send a Condolence

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

Bud was a graduate of Hempfield High School with the Class of 1978 and was employed with Armstrong World Industries.

A time of remembrance for Bud will be held from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 17, 2026 at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, 247 Main St, Landisville, PA 17538.

Attendees may drop in during those hours.

George B. “Bud” Moore, III, 65, of Lancaster passed away on January 10, 2026 surrounded by family at his home following a brief illness. He was born in Lancaster to the late George B. Moore, Jr. and Nancy K. (Stauffer) Moore and was a lifelong resident of Lancaster.

Bud was a graduate of Hempfield High School with the Class of 1978 and was employed with Armstrong World Industries from October of 2006 until his time of passing as a Warehouse Supervisor.

Bud is survived by his son Dustin Moore of Leola, step-son Ryan Benham of Lancaster, loving companion Sandy Gainer of Lancaster, a sister Sarah “Sally”, married to James S. Miller, Jr. of Lancaster, and two nephews, Justin and Ryan Miller of Lancaster. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two sisters, Katherine and Elizabeth Moore.

A time of remembrance for Bud will be held from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 17, 2026 at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, 247 Main St, Landisville, PA 17538. Attendees may drop in during those hours.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Pennsylvania SPCA Lancaster Center, 848 S. Prince St, Lancaster, PA 17603.

---

Send a Condolence

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

Mary enjoyed solving crossword puzzles, watching Law & Order and Downton Abbey, and the company of her cat – Hope.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, January 14, 2026 at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 409 Cherry St, Columbia, PA 17512.

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

Burial will be private and she will be laid to rest at Holy Cross Cemetery in Harrisburg.

Mary C. Shepler, 77, of Washington Boro passed away on January 3, 2026. She was born in Harrisburg to the late Joseph Mannion and Claire Mulvehill and was a lifelong resident of the Central Pennsylvania area.

Mary enjoyed solving crossword puzzles, watching Law & Order and Downton Abbey, and the company of her cat – Hope. She enjoyed the weekends at the family’s cabin in the Poconos. She volunteered at Columbia’s National Watch and Clock Museum and enjoyed gathering with friends at Newcomers & Neighbors of Lancaster Pa. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, who adored her family and treasured spending time with them.

Mary leaves behind her children, Mark, husband of Wendy Mudrinich of York Haven, Tracie, wife of Kurt Young of Washington Boro; two grandchildren, Christopher and Madison. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband James Shepler in 2014 and three brothers.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, January 14, 2026 at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 409 Cherry St, Columbia, PA 17512. The family will receive friends for visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. until service time. Burial will be private and she will be laid to rest at Holy Cross Cemetery in Harrisburg.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Raven Ridge Wildlife Center, PO BOX 38, Washington Boro, PA 17582.

---

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.

Coach is known for developing players who went on to be successful in life while attributing their success to the lessons and work ethic instilled by Coach Kauffman.

A viewing will be held at Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, 519 Walnut Street, Columbia from 2-4 PM on Sunday, January 11.

Visitors will also be received starting at 9:30 AM on Monday before the mass.

funeral mass will be held at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 409 Cherry Street, Columbia, at 11 AM on January 12, 2026.

private internment will immediately follow in Holy Trinity Catholic Cemetery.

Lamar J. Kauffman, 88, also known as "Morrie" or "Coach," passed away on Sunday, January 4, 2026, surrounded by family at St. Anne's Retirement Community. Born in and a proud life-long resident of Columbia, PA he was the youngest child of the late Marie and Lewis Kauffman.

A 1955 graduate of Columbia High School, he earned an undergraduate degree from Millersville University and a master's in education from Temple University. Lamar went on to serve his country in the U.S. Coast Guard. He often proudly recalled he saluted President John F. Kennedy while marching in the Inauguration Parade in January 1961.

Lamar was an outstanding three-sport star at Columbia High School earning eight varsity letters in football, basketball, and track. He was named All-County in both football and basketball in 1955. He was inducted in to the Columbia High School Hall of Fame in 2011. He also won three varsity letters playing football at Millersville.

After college and his years serving his country, Lamar embarked on a career as an educator at Lancaster Catholic and Columbia High School before moving to Manheim Central and retiring after decades of sharing his love of history with middle school students.

As a man of faith, Lamar dedicated many hours to serving his parish of Holy Trinity Catholic Church, not only as an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion for 35 years and Marriage Encounter mentor but also an impressive handyman and talented painter whose skills were often utilized and quietly performed, including painting the cathedral area behind the main altar at Holy Trinity. He loved his daily 2.2 mile walks and his get-aways to Stone Harbor.

It is as a basketball coach that Lamar may have made his biggest impact. Lamar is widely regarded as one of the best to ever coach high school girls basketball in Lancaster County, if not in the state of Pennsylvania. Before leading the girls program at Lancaster Catholic, Lamar coached boys high school basketball as an assistant at Columbia (under Elmer Kreiser) and then at Manheim Central for 12 seasons. When the chance to coach his daughters opened at Lancaster Catholic, he took the opportunity and changed the lives of many young ladies over the course of the next 32 very successful years. He had a winning percentage of 81% while winning 764 games, 18 Lancaster-Lebanon Section titles, 11 Lancaster-Lebanon League titles, 12 District III titles, and 2 PIAA State championships. After coaching three of his daughters, he also coached with his son for a number of years. His pressure, trapping defenses combined with his disciplined and fundamentally sound team players were a hallmark of his coaching career.

After his retirement in 2014, he was inducted into the Lancaster Catholic Hall of Honor. In October 2014, he was also inducted into the Lancaster County Sports Hall of Fame and awarded the George W. Kirchner Memorial Award and the J. Freeland Chryst Award. Beyond statistics and winning, Coach is known for developing players who went on to be successful in life while attributing their success to the lessons and work ethic instilled by Coach Kauffman.

He is survived by his wife, Carolyn Kauffman, and his children: Kim Dinsmore (wife of Jeff); Peg Kauffman (wife of Kelly Bortner); Terry Tafelski (wife of Michael); Kelly Birk (wife of Scott); and John Kauffman (husband of Becky). He is also survived by his grandchildren - Hannah Dinsmore, Kate Ostrowski (Tyler), Andrew Birk (Ashley), Emily Birk, Zoey and Nora Kauffman, Kennedy and Owen Collier (children of James and Jami Collier), Christian Kehr and Lilly Klehr (children of Jennifer and Norman Klehr), and Payton Fulmer (son of Mark Collier). He is also survived by his first great-grandchild (Olivia Ostrowski).

He was predeceased by his first wife of 39 years, Margaret Ann Kauffman, and granddaughter Elizabeth Tafelski. He was also predeceased by his six sisters, Betsy, Virginia, JoAnne, Mary Lou, Tish, and Thelma and his brother Luke Kauffman.

The family would like to thank all those who cared for Lamar, especially during his three-year stay in the memory care unit at St. Anne's Retirement Community. Thanks also to Hospice and Community Care who provided kind and supportive hospice care to Lamar. The love and support made him feel at home during his final stage of life.

His funeral mass will be held at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 409 Cherry Street, Columbia, at 11 AM on January 12, 2026, with the Rev. Mark Wilkie, Celebrant. A private internment will immediately follow in Holy Trinity Catholic Cemetery. A viewing will be held at Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, 519 Walnut Street, Columbia from 2-4 PM on Sunday, January 11. Visitors will also be received starting at 9:30 AM on Monday before the mass.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Lancaster Catholic High School Athletics, 650 Juliette 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.

Known as the heart of her family and the glue that held it together, Joanne had a rare gift for connection.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, January 9, 2026, at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 409 Cherry Street, Columbia, PA 17512.

Family and friends are invited to gather for visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. until the time of the Mass.

Burial will follow in Holy Trinity Catholic Cemetery, where Joanne will be laid to rest beside her husband.

Joanne L. Murphy, 85, affectionately known to many as “The Nan”, of Columbia, passed away peacefully into eternal life on January 3, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. She was born in Columbia to the late Edward G. and Verna L. (Bongart) Peters and remained a lifelong resident of the town she loved.

Joanne experienced profound loss early in life, losing her mother as an infant to polio, an absence that left a tenderness in her heart and is now joyfully healed as she is reunited with her mother in heaven. A graduate of Columbia High School, Class of 1958, Joanne soon married her beloved husband, Gardiner T. Murphy, Sr. Together they built both a family and numerous businesses, including Murphy’s Paint Store, Columbia Factory Outlet, Columbia Tire Outlet & Garage, GT Auto Parts, Don’s Basket Company, numerous laundromats and managed many apartments. Through these family-run businesses, Joanne and her husband instilled in their children the values of hard work, integrity, and an entrepreneurial spirit. 

Known as the heart of her family and the glue that held it together, Joanne had a rare gift for connection. She seemed to know everyone, and wherever she went, she lit up the room with her warmth, kindness, and unmistakable presence.  Her family was her greatest accomplishment, and she poured her love into them in countless ways. For more than twenty years, she lovingly prepared Sunday dinner each week, creating a cherished tradition that brought her family together. She was a faithful and loving wife, a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother, as well as a caring sister and aunt. 

Joanne loved spending time with her family, especially at Christmas, which she loved so much and made very special. Joanne loved to shop and took great joy in buying gifts for her family; in addition to being deeply missed by those she loved, Amazon, Boscov’s and Murphy’s Mercantile will surely miss her as well!

A woman of deep faith, Joanne was a faithful parishioner of Holy Trinity Catholic Church, where her faith guided her life and sustained her through both joy and sorrow.

She is survived by her four sons, Joseph G. Murphy Sr., husband of Laurie; Gardiner T. Murphy Jr.; Michael P. Murphy Sr., husband of Lori Ann; and Donald C. Murphy Sr., husband of Becky; and her two daughters, V. Jean Menard, wife of Thomas, and Julie A. Landis, wife of Donald. She is also survived by her eighteen grandchildren: Tommy; Abby (Travis); Amanda; Joseph Jr.; Josh; Jake (Amber); Rachael (Brandon); Kate (Darrin); Emily; Patrick (Sabrina); Megan; Hailey; Terese; Tawn; Lauren (Jordon); Taylor (Emilee); Chris (Faith); and Hunter.

Joanne leaves behind twenty-eight great-grandchildren: Olivia; Hannah; Mia; Dalton; Breanna; Brooke; Brittany; Bailey; Allyson; Joey; Renae; Parker; Paityn; Weston; Caroline; Julian; Matthew; Jonathan; Aundrea; Camryn; Chase; Vaida; Campbell; Trey; Koen; Beau; Marlowe June; and Donnie; as well as one great-great-grandchild, Zeke.

She is additionally survived by her sister, J. Elaine Klinestever; her nephew, Robert Klinestever; her niece, Anne Campbell; and her daughter-in-law, Constance Murphy.

In addition to her parents, Joanne was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Gardiner T. Murphy, Sr., in 1996.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, January 9, 2026, at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 409 Cherry Street, Columbia, PA 17512. Family and friends are invited to gather for visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. until the time of the Mass. Burial will follow in Holy Trinity Catholic Cemetery, where Joanne will be laid to rest beside her husband.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Our Lady of the Angels School, 404 Cherry Street, Columbia, PA 17512.

https://ourladyoftheangels.org/give/

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the doctors, nurses, and caregivers of Lancaster General Hospital for their compassionate care, and to her granddaughter Abby and her family for their loving care over the past ten 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.

He earned the nickname "The Professor" from his colleagues for his avid reading of books, blueprints, and anything technical.

Celebration of Wayne's life will be held at 2:00 PM on Thursday, November 6, 2025 at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, 519 Walnut St., Columbia, PA 17512.

The family will receive friends for visitation beginning at 1:00 PM until service time. Attendees are asked to wear lavender (Wayne's favorite color) or any shade of purple.

Wayne G. Splain, 83, of Columbia passed away on October 26, 2025 surrounded by his family. He was born in Columbia to the late John Elwood and Mary Klotz Splain and was a lifelong resident of this area.

Wayne was a graduate of Columbia High School with the Class of 1960 where he was active in wrestling and cross country. He proudly served in the United States Air Force for four years, as a jet aircraft mechanic at Pease Air Force Base and as a Colonel's administrative clerk at McGuire.

Upon leaving the service, Wayne worked as an automotive mechanic and then as a shearer and straightener at Grinnell before improving RCA's salvage operations as a final tube inspector.

Wayne started at PP&L in 1971 at the Holtwood facility. He quickly rose through the ranks to become an electrical mechanic, a job at which he excelled at the Brunner Island SES for 22 years. He earned the nickname "The Professor" from his colleagues for his avid reading of books, blueprints, and anything technical. Wayne transitioned his career in 1993 when he began pursuing his passion for computers as an information systems analyst. He retired in 2002. A lifetime learner, Wayne attended Penn State York Campus.

As a boy and young man, he loved spending time on the Susquehanna River with family and friends and was an active member of the Salem United Church of Christ in Columbia serving as youth fellowship leader, Trustee, and Elder. Wayne was extremely proud of his service as a Cold War veteran and member of the 509th Bomb Wing.

He was an avid Chicago Bears, Dale Earnhardt, and Formula 1 Racing fan. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and uncle who adored his family and treasured spending time with them.

Wayne leaves behind his wife of sixty-two years Charlotte M. Splain née Frey; two sons, Stephen Michael, husband of Tracy Price Splain, John Matthew Splain, partner of Margaret Casey; four grandchildren, Katherine, wife of Cody McConaghy, Shawn Splain, Isaac Mayer-Splain, Ian Mayer-Splain; a brother Lee Splain; numerous nieces and nephews and a large extended family including his cherished foreign exchange student, Javier Tamez Villarreal and his family. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Marilyn Splain Frey.

Charlotte and family sincerely thank Paige Herchelroath, Maddie Gonzalez, Ariana and John from Comfort Keepers, and Hospice & Community Care for their outstanding gentle care in Wayne's final days.

A celebration of Wayne's life will be held at 2:00 PM on Thursday, November 6, 2025 at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, 519 Walnut St., Columbia, PA 17512. The family will receive friends for visitation beginning at 1:00 PM until service time. Attendees are asked to wear lavender (Wayne's favorite color) or any shade of purple in remembrance of him. He will be laid to rest, with military honors, at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery on a later date.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Smile Train, P.O. Box 96231, Washington, DC 20090, DAV - Disabled American Veterans, P.O. Box 14301, Cincinnati, OH 45250, or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

---

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.

Buzz proudly served in the United States Navy with tours to Japan and Hawaii. Follow

Mass of Christian Burial: 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, January 7, 2026 at St. Peter Catholic Church, 121 S. 2nd St, Columbia, PA 17512. There will be no viewing, however the family will receive friends for visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. until service time.

Burial, with military honors, will follow and Buzz will be laid to rest beside his beloved Jeanne at St. Peter Catholic Cemetery.

William H. “Buzz” Barton, III, 92, of Columbia passed away on December 30, 2025. He was born in Columbia to the late William H. and Sara Wickenheiser Barton and lived most of his life in this area.

Buzz was a graduate of Columbia High School with the Class of 1952 and proudly served in the United States Navy with tours to Japan and Hawaii. Following his service, he worked with Armstrong World Industries until his retirement and then as tour guide at Armstrong.

Buzz served as a coach with C.B.A.A. for many years teaching his children and numerous others in baseball. He was a lifelong parishioner of St. Peter Catholic Church where he was active in the Holy Name Society. Buzz was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother, and uncle who adored his family and treasured spending time with them.

Buzz leaves behind five children, William H. “Buzz”, husband of Deborah Barton of Kokomo, IN, Michael D. Barton of Lancaster, Patrick A., husband of Cindy Barton of Lancaster, Kelly, wife of Dave Miller of New Providence, Kathy Barninger of Columbia; two siblings, Frank l., husband of Margaret Barton of Columbia, Sara Ann, wife of Gerald Mitterer of Willow Street; nine grandchildren and fourteen great grandchildren; several nieces and nephews and a large extended family. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of almost seventy-three years, Jeanne Staub Barton who preceded him on November 1, 2025 and two siblings, James M. Barton and Mary Ellen Hoffmaster.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, January 7, 2026 at St. Peter Catholic Church, 121 S. 2nd St, Columbia, PA 17512. There will be no viewing, however the family will receive friends for visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. until service time. Burial, with military honors, will follow and Buzz will be laid to rest beside his beloved Jeanne at St. Peter Catholic Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Hospice and Community Care, 685 Good Dr, Lancaster, PA 17601 or Our Lady of the Angels School, 404 Cherry St, Columbia, PA 17512.

---

Send a Condolence

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

Celebration of life: Thursday, January 8th, 2026 at 2:00pm at The Lancaster Nursing and Rehab Center, 900 East King Street, Lancaster Pa.

Joyce A Ulmer, 67, of Columbia PA, took the lords hand on December 26, 2025 at Lancaster Nursing and Rehab Center. Born in Lancaster Pa she was the daughter of Glenn and MaryJane Leighty.

Joyce graduated from McCaskey High School and Co-Op program in1979 which led her into her passion of taking care of residents in different nursing facilities in Lancaster and Columbia. Joyce would later meet the love of her life at Conestoga Pines Swimming Pool.

Joyce and Jerry would later celebrate 45 wonderful years of marriage.

Joyce is survived by her loving husband Reverend Jerry Ulmer, son Matthew Ulmer husband of Morgan Ulmer, six grand children and one great grand child.

The celebration of life will be held on Thursday January 8th 2026 at 2:00pm at The Lancaster Nursing and Rehab Center 900 East King Street Lancaster Pa.

---

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.

Most important to her was her family, dedicating herself unselfishly to them.

Mass of Christian Burial: Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 409 Cherry St. Columbia PA 17512 on Friday, January 2, 2026, at 11:00 AM.

Friends may view at the church one hour prior to the mass.

Burial will follow in Holy Trinity Catholic Cemetery.

Miriam E. "Mim" Horn, 94 of Columbia, passed away on Friday, December 26, 2025, at the Lancaster General Hospital. She was the wife of the late Joseph E. Horn with whom she was married 60 years until his death in 2011. Born in Ironville, she was the daughter of the late Issac and Bertha Hambright Kneisly.

Mim retired from the National Association of Watch & Clock Collectors, Inc. and was a devoted member of Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Columbia. Most important to her was her family, dedicating herself unselfishly to them and relishing the time spent with her grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.

She is survived by her sons, Joseph B., husband of Cindy Horn; Eric D., husband of Jayme Horn; daughters, Marita J., wife of Dan Sargen; Mindy A., wife of Bill Young; grandchildren, Michelle, Scott, Shawn, Steve, Matt, Brian H., Brian S., Annika, Joseph, Kyle, Sean, Courtney; great-grandchildren, River, Caiden, Owen, Addy, Jessalyn, Victoria, Tyler, Lincoln, Frankie, Ava, Tristan, Mackenzie, Ethan, Liam, Holden; great-great-grandchildren, Blake & Brogan. Her sister, Gladys Kneisly preceded her in death.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held from Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 409 Cherry St. Columbia PA 17512 on Friday, January 2, 2026, at 11:00 AM with the Rev. Mark Wilke, Celebrant. Burial will follow in Holy Trinity Catholic Cemetery. Friends may view at the church one hour prior to the mass. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Holy Trinity Catholic Church.

---

Send a Condolence

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

Sandra thoroughly enjoyed volunteering at the Columbia Re-Uzit shop.

A celebration of Sandra’s life will be held at a later date and will be announced by her family. She will be laid to rest with her late husband at Mount Bethel Cemetery in Columbia.

Sandra L. Lightcap, 82, of Columbia passed away on December 22, 2025. She was born in Harrisburg to the late Arthur and Charlotte Hossler and was a lifelong resident of this area.

Sandra attended and graduated from Elizabethtown High School and went on to receive her LPN from Lancaster County Career and Technology Center in Willow Street. She began her career as an LPN and retired from Pleasant Acres Nursing & Rehabilitation Center. Following her retirement, Sandra thoroughly enjoyed volunteering at the Columbia Re-Uzit shop.

Sandra leaves behind two children, Sandra J., wife of Paul Kralicek of Willow Street, Anthony Hess of Mount Joy; her dear friend, who took wonderful care of Sandra, Lisa, wife of John Briggs of East York. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband William Lightcap in 2005 and two siblings, June Sensenig and Larry Hossler, Jr.

A celebration of Sandra’s life will be held at a later date and will be announced by her family. She will be laid to rest with her late husband at Mount Bethel Cemetery in Columbia. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Columbia Animal Shelter, 265 S. 10th St, Columbia, PA 17512 www.columbiaanimalshelter.com.

---

Send a Condolence

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