Posts in obituaries
Dr. Janairo F. Hernandez

Dr. Hernandez will be remembered by many for his kindness, humor, and generosity to those in need.

Due to current health concerns, a private funeral mass will be held at the convenience of the family.

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Janairo F. Hernandez, M.D., a longtime General Internist practicing in Columbia since 1974, passed away on December 8, 2020. He was the husband of Remedios Basco Hernandez with whom he was married 51 years this past June 2nd. Born in the Philippines, he was the son of the late Serafin and Araceli Flores Hernandez.

Doctor Hernandez was a devoted Catholic and a member of Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Columbia. He had a love for military marching band music and a love of watching any film or documentary about wars or military themes. He avidly enjoyed marching along with military marching music and playing poker.

Most importantly, he will be remembered by many for his kindness, humor, and generosity to those in need.

The Hernandez Family would like to express their appreciation to Columbia residents, all of his patients, and his friends for their welcoming nature and support. If you would like to share a message or special moment you had with Dr. Hernandez, please send an e-mail to DrHernandezFamily@yahoo.com.

Due to current health concerns, a private funeral mass will be held at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Holy Trinity Catholic Church or to Our Lady of the Angels Catholic School.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by two sons, Reginald B. Hernandez; Janairo F. Hernandez, and a grandson Mclain O'Rourke, all of California.

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

www.clydekraft.com


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Patrick Q. Spiese

Retired English Teacher

Graveside Services will be held at Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens with full Military Honors.

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Patrick Q. Spiese, 78, of 339 C. St. Carlisle, PA passed away on December 8, 2020 at the Harrisburg Hospital. He was the husband of Kaye Beecher Spiese. Born in Columbia, PA he was the son of the late Albert L. Spiese, Sr. and Hilda Ember Spiese.

Patrick was a retired English teacher and has taught at the Loysville Youth Development Center of West Perry School District. He was a member of First Evangelical Lutheran Church in Carlisle. He was a former coordinator of the Columbia Playground Association and a member of Elks Lodge #0578 in Carlisle. Patrick proudly served his country in the U.S. Air Force during the Viet Nam War.

Surviving besides his wife are sons: David P. husband of Nicole Spiese of Telford, PA and Micah T. Spiese of Aurora, Colorado and grandson: Vincent D. Spiese. Also surviving are sisters: Geraldine E. Spiese of Hatfield, PA and Rose M. Spiese of Lancaster, PA and a brother, Richard Spiese of Long Beach, CA. He was preceded in death by the following siblings: Herbert, Hilda, Albert, Nathan, Kenneth, John, Grace, James and Gwen.

Private Graveside Services will be held for the family in Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens with Full Military Honors by Red Rose Veterans Honor Guard and Vet 21 Gun Salute.

The family requests that flowers be omitted. Memorial Contributions in Patrick's memory may be made to the Columbia Food Bank, P.O. Box 96, Columbia, PA 17512.

Arrangements by the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc., Columbia/Landisville,


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Carolyn C. Derstler

Carolyn took pleasure in gardening, feeding the hummingbirds and watching butterflies.

Mass of Christian Burial: Saturday, December 12, 2020 at 11:00 am, Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Columbia. Visitation with the family one hour prior to Mass.

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Carolyn C. Derstler, 98 formerly of the Ironville Pike Columbia, PA passed away on Monday, December 7, 2020. She was the wife of the late Elmer J. Derstler who preceded her in death on November 24, 2003. Born in Columbia she was the daughter of the late Joseph and Clara Burgess Resch.

Carolyn was a full time homemaker. She enjoyed traveling across the United States with her husband, enjoyed family gatherings and celebrating birthdays with her siblings. She took pleasure in gardening, feeding the hummingbirds and watching butterflies. Carolyn was a life-long member of Holy Trinity Catholic Church, attending daily Mass until her husbands' passing in 2003. She was a past member of the Altar Rosary Society and the Legion of Mary.

She is survived by her daughters: Carol wife of Thomas Manley of York, PA and Mary Jo wife of Stephen Wagner of Millersville, PA., a son: Karl of Columbia, PA., 5 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren, sisters: Doris wife of Albert Schmitt and Shirley Marcello both of Columbia, PA and Barbara Austin of Palm Harbor, FL. She was preceded in death by a son: Leo W. husband of Patricia Bireley Derstler of Columbia, PA and the following siblings: Joseph, Charles, Anna, Martha, Margaret, Frances, Betty, Agnes and an infant sister Jeanette.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held from Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 4th & Cherry Streets Columbia, PA on Saturday, December 12, 2020 at 11:00AM with Rev. Fr. Stephen Kelley as Celebrant. Final Commendation and Farewell will be in Holy Trinity Catholic Cemetery. There will be a Visitation with the Family from 10:00AM–11:00AM. Masks must be worn to enter the Church. The family requests that flowers be omitted.

Memorial Contributions in Carolyn's memory may be made to Our Lady of The Angels School 404 Cherry Street Columbia, PA 17512. A special thank you to the staff at Paramount Senior Living, Maytown and the Grane Hospice for their compassionate and loving care. Arrangements by the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc. Columbia/Landisville. www.clydekraft.com


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Miles Shirk Lauver, Jr.

Miles enjoyed telling jokes and spending time visiting the S.B.A. and American Legion social clubs in Marietta.

A celebration of Miles’ life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, December 11, 2020 at Community Bible Church, 331 Anderson Ferry Rd, Marietta, PA 17547. The family will receive friends for visitation beginning at 1:00 p.m. until service time

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Miles Shirk Lauver, Jr., AKA Pap, of Marietta, entered into rest on Tuesday, December 1, 2020 at his home surrounded by his loving family. He was the husband of Harriet (Stoutzenberger) Lauver to whom he was married for 57 years. Son of the late Miles, Sr. and Blanche Lauver, he is survived by two sons and a daughter, Brian, husband of Michelle, Miles, III, and Robin, wife of Corey; grandchildren, Nikki (Peewee), wife of Ewan, Troy, husband of Connie, Sara, wife of Zach, Brian II, Adam, Justin, and Megan; five great grandchildren; three siblings, brothers Paul and Ronnie and sister Evie.

Miles proudly served in the U.S. Army for 10 years and was an over the road truck driver for Amerimax Home Products for 35 years (his handle was “The Pied Piper”). He retired with over 3 million miles accident free. Miles loved hunting, fishing, and the Pittsburgh Steelers. He enjoyed telling jokes and spending time visiting the S.B.A. and American Legion social clubs in Marietta.
A celebration of Miles’ life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, December 11, 2020 at Community Bible Church, 331 Anderson Ferry Rd, Marietta, PA 17547. The family will receive friends for visitation beginning at 1:00 p.m. until service time. If attending please wear a mask and practice social distancing. Flowers will be accepted or please consider a donation to The Oral Cancer Foundation, 1211 E. State St, Boise, ID 83712.



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Sister Agatha Marie Groft, ASC

Sister Agatha was the provincial leader for the Sisters in the former Columbia Province of the Adorers of the Blood of Christ from 1995 - 2000.

Due to public health guidelines, private interment will be held at St. Joseph’s Convent Cemetery. A Mass of Remembrance will be held at a later date.

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Sister Agatha Marie Groft, ASC, 88, passed away on December 7, 2020 at St. Anne’s Retirement Community. Born Eva Teresa in Adams County, PA she was the daughter of the late Benjamin and Elizabeth Hackensmith Groft.

Sister was baptized on January 17, 1932 at Sacred Heart Basilica in Conewago. She entered the Adorers of the Blood of Christ on January 7, 1951 and made her final profession on August 15, 1957. Sister Agatha was the provincial leader for the Sisters in the former Columbia Province of the Adorers of the Blood of Christ from 1995 - 2000. Her other ministries included being an elementary and junior high teacher and principal, superior at local communities, formation director (for postulants and novices), coordinator of the Sisters at St. Anne’s in Columbia, mentor Sister for the ASC Associates in the Columbia area, provincial councilor and treasurer. Sister retired at St. Joseph’s Convent in 2005 and at St. Anne’s Retirement Community in 2010.

Surviving is her brother-in-law, Lawrence ("Gump") Bolin and several nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her siblings, Marie Baker, Pauline Groft, Earl Groft, Margaret Smith, Robert Groft, Anna Mae Storm, Helena Smith, and Genivieve Bolin.

Due to public health guidelines, private interment will be held at St. Joseph’s Convent Cemetery. A Mass of Remembrance will be held at a later date. If desired, memorial contributions may be made to the ASC Retirement Fund, 4233 Sulphur Ave, St. Louis, MO 63109 or www.adorers.org. Arrangements by the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc. Columbia/Landisville www.clydekraft.com


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Mary Margaret (Baer) Ebersole

Mary was a skilled seamstress, crafter, excellent cook & avid baker!

Funeral Services will take place on Thursday, December 10 at Trinity E.C. Church, 322 Hershey Avenue, Lancaster. Visitation begins at 1 p.m. Service takes place at 2 p.m. Interment is private at Conestoga Memorial Gardens,

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Mary Margaret (Baer) Ebersole, 94, departed this life in hope of the Resurrection on Friday, December 4. She will be deeply missed by her family and friends.

Mary was preceded in death by her husband of 57 years, David Blair Ebersole, Jr., her parents, John P. and Elva (McCartney) Baer and 4 siblings, Dorothy Hawn, Betty Jane (Pete) Gleichert, Donald Baer, and Arthur Baer. She is survived by her children Debra (David) Bryant, Leslie (Jerome) Atherholt and Larry Ebersole; her 5 grandchildren Matthew Miller, Kara Bryant, and Blair, Elaine and Grace Atherholt and her 4 great-grandchildren.

Born in Bolivar, PA, Mary and her family moved to Altoona where she graduated from Altoona High School. Mary loved to roller skate in her youth, and spent many hours doing so with her friends. She remained life-long friends with many of them, including Irene (Tsamoutales) Kyle, with whom she cherished an 81-year friendship.

Mary met David on a blind date in Geeseytown, PA following his return from WWII. Once married, his work with Bell Telephone moved them from Blair County to Lancaster County. After renting on Ross Street for several years, they bought a house on Union Street where they lived and raised their family.

Mary was a skilled seamstress and crafter. Many friends and neighbors were blessed by her artistry as she mended, repaired and constructed clothing, furnishings, toys and, most notably, Christmas ornaments and decorations for everyone she loved. She was an excellent cook and an avid baker, known for her contributions to church, school and community bake sales, and family dinners. She shared Christmas cookies, including her famous sand tarts, with friends and neighbors across the county.

Mary was an active member of Trinity E.C. Church on Hershey Avenue, joining shortly after its founding. She also served as a membership officer of The Towne Club of Lancaster and secretary of Lancaster AARP for many years.

Funeral Services will take place on Thursday, December 10 at Trinity E.C. Church, 322 Hershey Avenue, Lancaster. Visitation begins at 1 p.m. Service takes place at 2 p.m. Interment is private at Conestoga Memorial Gardens, Lancaster. Due to Covid-19, masks and social distancing are required. Arrangements are entrusted to Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Columbia, PA. www.clydekraft.com

In lieu of flowers, please support a charity of your choice in Mary’s honor.


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Rose Marie Brommer

Rose was an example of service to her community.

Mass of Christian Burial: Thursday, December 3, 2020 at 11:00 a.m. at Saint Peter Catholic Church

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Rose Marie Brommer, 71, entered into eternal life on Sunday, November 29, 2020, at home surrounded by her family. For five months she valiantly fought cancer showing her family how to fight with courage and patience. She never gave up her will to live.

Born October 1, 1949 to the late William and Elizabeth (Boswa) Foehlinger, she was one of seven children. Her husband, Jack, and she were married for fifty years on April 25, 2020.

Rosie was retired from Colonial Metals Co., Columbia, and never-quite-retired as a private income tax preparer. A life-long member of St Peter Catholic Church, her faith filled her life and was passed on to her family. She was an example of service to her community as a former member of the Vigilant Fire Co. Auxiliary; a former Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion to the homebound of her parish; and, annually a volunteer for the Christmas Day Dinner sponsored by the Office of the Aging for over 25 years.

Surviving in addition to her siblings and husband are three children, Jack Brommer, Jr. (husband to Julie), Jill Bryant (wife to Kevin), and Fr. Joshua Brommer. Her heart was filled with love for her six grandchildren, Elizabeth, Brittany, Lauren, Kevin, Katy, and Sophia.

A visitation will take place on Wednesday, December 2, 2020 from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc. 519 Walnut St., Columbia, PA and again at the church one hour prior to the Mass. The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, December 3, 2020 at 11:00 a.m. at Saint Peter Catholic Church, 121 S. Second St., Columbia 17512 with her son presiding. Interment will follow in St. Peter Catholic Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial offerings in her memory may be made to her church.

The funeral Mass will be lived streamed on the church Facebook page at https://stpetercolumbiapa.org/contact-us


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Chad R. Houser

Chad loved the outdoors, especially fishing and rooting for the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Funeral Service: Thursday, December 3, 2020 at 3:00 p.m. at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home

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Chad R. Houser, 42, formerly of Columbia, passed away on November 25, 2020. Born in Lancaster, he was the son of David Houser and Donna Kline Houser. Chad worked in construction as a sub-contractor. He loved the outdoors, especially fishing and rooting for the Pittsburgh Steelers.

He is survived by his children, Conner R., Chelsey E., Carter J., Coltan L.C., Carley M. and a grandson, Graysen P. Several aunts, uncles and cousins also survive.

A funeral service will be held at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc. 519 Walnut St., Columbia, PA on Thursday, December 3, 2020 at 3:00 p.m. with Deacon Jeffrey Baylor, officiating. Viewing one hour prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donations in his memory to the Go Fund Me account at https://gf.me/u/zafgai on behalf of his children.


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Lynn R. "Kulpy" Kulp

An avid motorcyclist and proud owner of two Harleys, he was a member of the Lancaster Harley Davidsons Group.

Celebration of Life: Saturday, December 5, 2020 from 1:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. at Copper Hill at Cross Gates Golf Course

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Lynn R. "Kulpy" Kulp, 70, a lifelong resident of Landisville, passed away peacefully but unexpectedly at his residence on Thursday, November 26, 2020. He was the loving husband of Marcy (Bonnain) Kulp with whom he was married 48 years. Born in Landisville, he was the son of the late Earl and Anna Mae Dyer Kulp.

A graduate of Hempfield High School, Class of 1968, he was employed in the finishing department of Armstrong World Industries for 37 years until his retirement in 2006. In his retirement, he enjoyed his time as a driver for Keller's Brothers Dodge.

An avid motorcyclist and proud owner of two Harleys, he was a member of the Lancaster Harley Davidsons Group. Kulpy also enjoyed hunting and fishing; he was a member of to the Elstonville Sportsman Club and the Hempfield Sportsman Club. In addition, he was a member of the Riverside Camping Association.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his daughters, Kelly R., wife of Jim Fleishman; Kara M., partner of Tony Rodriquez; five grandchildren, Kelsi, Kain, Kevin, Tony and Kali; two great-grandchildren, Penelope, Alaya, with one on the way which will be named Legend; brothers, Earl Jr., husband of Marlene Kulp; Willis J., husband of Darlene Kulp and Glenn R., husband of Judy Kulp and his faithful canine companion "Sadie." In addition, numerous cousins, nieces and nephews also survive. He was preceded in death by his twin sister, Linda and siblings, Bob, Nancy, Patsy, Doris, and numerous cousins.

A Celebration of Life will be held for family and friends on Saturday, December 5, 2020 from 1:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. at Copper Hill at Cross Gates Golf Course, 1 Crossland Pass, Millersville, PA 17551. Donations in Lynn's memory may be made to the Muscular Dystrophy Association at www.mda.org.

The family is being assisted by the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc., 247 Main St., Landisville, PA.


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George L. Geltmacher

George proudly served in the United States Army.

Graveside Service: Monday, November 30th, 2020, 11:00 AM at Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens

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George L. Geltmacher, 76, of Columbia passed away on November 20th, 2020. He was born in Columbia to the late Harry and Emma McLaughlin Geltmacher and was a lifelong resident of this area. George was a graduate of Columbia High School with the Class of 1962 and proudly served in the United States Army. He worked for forty one years with Armstrong Cork Co. as an electrician working on elevators and cranes before his retirement. George was a recipient of a kidney transplant from his wife nineteen years ago. He enjoyed attending local high school sports. George lived life to the fullest and was a hard worker. He loved camping, traveling, and visiting the beach with his adoring family by his side.

George leaves behind his wife of fifty two years Mary Lynn Geesey Geltmacher of Columbia; his children, Ericka, wife of Joel Sipe of Lancaster, Todd, husband of Christina Geltmacher of Lancaster; four grandchildren, Emily, Evan, Lauren, Logan all of Lancaster; three siblings, Daniel, husband of Connie Geltmacher of Wrightsville, Myrna Shearer of Lancaster, Bernice, wife of Dick Ochs of Lancaster. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by three siblings, Harry Geltmacher, Kenneth Geltmacher, and Anna Ruby.

A graveside service led by Father J. Patrick Peters of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church with military honors will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, November 30th, 2020 at Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens. If attending please wear a mask and practice social distancing. George’s family wishes to thank the staff of Penn State Hershey Medical Center and Lebanon VA Hospice for their compassionate care of George. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Lebanon VA Hospice, 1700 S. Lincoln Ave, Lebanon, PA 17042. Arrangements by the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc. Columbia/Landisville www.clydekraft.com


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Shane M. Zimmerman

Shane adored his family, especially his son Cory, who he loved to take fishing.

Due to world events, there will be no formal services at this time. A celebration of Shane’s life will be held at a later date and will be announced by his family

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Shane Mitchell Zimmerman, 34, of East Petersburg lost his long battle with addiction on November 18th, 2020. He was born in Lancaster to Dean Zimmerman and Denise welsh-Barndt and was a lifelong resident of this area. Shane was a graduate of Hempfield High School with the Class of 2005 and was an avid hockey and baseball player. He adored his family, especially his son Cory, who he loved to take fishing.

Shane leaves behind his parents Denise Welsh-Barndt, wife of Brian Barndt of East Petersburg, Dean Zimmerman of Millersville; his son, Cory Zimmerman of East Petersburg; sister and step sister, Jessica Zimmerman of East Petersburg, Brandy Barndt of Altoona, PA; maternal grandparents, Nora Welsh, wife of the late Edward Welsh of Marietta; step grandparents, William and Brenda Barndt of Elizabethtown; several nieces and nephews, aunts and uncles, and a large extended family. He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, William George Zimmerman, Sr. and Jane Barninger Zimmerman.

Due to world events, there will be no formal services at this time. A celebration of Shane’s life will be held at a later date and will be announced by his family. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to The Nicholas House, 345 Union St, Columbia, PA 17512. Arrangements by the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc. Columbia/Landisville www.clydekraft.com


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Jesus M. Alvarez, Jr. (CHINO)

Chino enjoyed DJ-ing for parties and for himsel

No Services at this Time.

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THE LIFE

Jesus M. Alvarez, Jr., (Chino), was born on April 12, 1966 in East Harlem, New York City.  He was the first born to Jesus M. Alvarez, Sr. and Maria E. Alvarez.

Growing up in Spanish Harlem, Chino attended P.S. 102 Elementary School and attended high school in East Harlem, New York.  Chino started working at Wards Island Psychiatric Hospital and after started working for Weir Metro Ambulance as a driver then an ambulance inspector.

In his spare time, he enjoyed DJ-ing for parties and for himself.  He loved watching old movie flix with John Wayne, Bruce Lee and Jerry Lewis.  Chino also enjoyed family gatherings and traveling to different places as long he was driving.

Chino goes on to be with his grandparents and other family members.

Chino is survived by his parents, Jesus and Maria Alvarez; sister, Pauline and brother in law, Brian; son, Gabriel; grandson, Gianni; granddaughter, Gabriella; daughter in law, Vicki and the heart of his life, Daisy; all his aunts, uncles, cousins and very special friends.


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Pam Fischer

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

Pam enjoyed music, especially oldies and Rock and will be missed for her free spirit and kind heart.

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Pam Fischer, 64, of Columbia, passed away on November 17th, 2020 following a courageous battle with A.L.S. She was born in Columbia to the late Joseph and Helen Fischer and was a lifelong resident of this area. Pam was a graduate of Lancaster Catholic High School with the Class of 1975. She loved to travel to places like Gettysburg, the Finger Lakes, and Chincoteague, VA. Pam enjoyed music, especially oldies and Rock and will be missed for her free spirit and kind heart.

Pam leaves behind her children, Steve Fisher, fiancé of Tiffany Nissley of Columbia, Sayward Shenberger of Columbia; eight grandchildren: Skippy, Tess, David, Chase, Byron, Hunter, Marcus, Lilliana; one grandchild, Harper, and two on the way; four brothers, Mark Fischer of Columbia, Joseph Fischer, husband of Terry of Wakefield, Dave Fischer, husband of DeAnna of Donegal, Den Fischer, husband of Joy of Pequea; two sisters, Linda Breneman of Mount Joy, Cheryl Cook, companion of Joseph Hake of Wrightsville.

In honor of her final wishes, Pam will have no formal services. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to The ALS Association, Greater Philadelphia Chapter, 321 Norristown Road, Suite 260, Ambler, PA 19002 or www.als.org/donate.

 


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Mildred M. "Millie" Millar

Services will be private and held at the convenience of the family.

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Mildred M. “Millie” Millar, 85, of Columbia, formerly of Marietta, passed away on Friday, November 13, 2020 at ManorCare. She was the wife of the late James W. Millar with whom she ws married 33 years until his death in 1996. Born in Columbia, she was the daughter of the late Joseph and Susan Ressler Roberts.

She is survived by her children, Michael S. husband of Brenda Roberts; Steven J. Millar; Kimberly S. wife of Michael J. McCall; Laurie A. wife of Joseph G. Murphy; seven grandchildren; 13 great Grandchildren and a sister, Jane Mimnall. Her sister Joanne Ott preceded her in death.

Services will be private and held at the convenience of the family.

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

www.clydekraft.com


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Thomas M. Brittain, Jr.

Funeral Services: Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home on Wednesday, November 18, 2020 at 11:00AM. Viewing will be held one hour prior to service from funeral home.

He enjoyed country & bluegrass music, black licorice and peanut butter, but will be remembered by his family and friends as a "man with a big heart" ready to help anyone in need.

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Thomas M. Brittain, Jr., 79, of Wrightsville, passed away at his residence on Thursday, November 12, 2020. Born July 25, 1941 in Reedsville, Mifflin County, he was the son of the late Thomas M., Sr. and Gladys R. Dippery Brittain.

Tom was a truck driver whose travels took him to all the continental states and Alaska. He also worked for many years as a millwright for the former ITT Grinnell Corporation in Columbia. He also was proud of his service in the U.S. Army, receiving his honorable discharge in 1960.

He enjoyed country & bluegrass music, black licorice and peanut butter, but will be remembered by his family and friends as a "man with a big heart" ready to help anyone in need.

He is survived by his children, Barbara, wife of Karl Kemberling; Gayle E. Adams; Thomas III, husband of Paula Brittain; Dana, wife of Paul Jackson, Jr.; 22 grandchildren; numerous great-grandchildren; brother, Gene Brought; sisters, Jane, wife of Leon Goss, and Barbara Pecht, and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by an infant daughter, Kelly; his grandson, Michael Brittain and brothers, John and Donald Brittain, Sr.

Funeral services will be held at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc., 519 Walnut St., Columbia PA on Wednesday, November 18, 2020 at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Marvin Reich, officiating. Burial to follow in Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens. Friends may view at the funeral home one hour prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital at www.stjude.org.


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John J. "Jack" Kennedy, III

Jack graduated from Lancaster Catholic High School in 1959 and earned degrees in Philosophy from Villanova and Temple Universities.

A memorial mass will be held at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 409 Cherry St. Columbia PA on Saturday, November 21, 2020 at 11:00 a.m.

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John J. “Jack” Kennedy III, 79, of Philadelphia, formerly of Columbia, passed away on Tuesday, November 11, 2020 at ManorCare. Born in Columbia, he was the son of the late John J. Jr. and Loretta Horn Kennedy.

Jack graduated from Lancaster Catholic High School in 1959 and earned degrees in Philosophy from Villanova and Temple Universities. He was a self-employed mover who own and operated the Kennedy Moving Company in Philadelphia. Jack obtained the rank of Eagle Scout when he was younger and was a member of the Philadelphia Democratic Committee. 

He is survived by his brothers, Gary M. husband of Carol Kennedy; George F. husband of Georgia Kennedy; Hubert “Hubie” Kennedy; sisters, Patricia A. Kennedy; Mary E. wife of Harry Wagner and three generations of nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his brothers Jimmy and Robert J. Kennedy.

A memorial mass will be held at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 409 Cherry St. Columbia PA on Saturday, November 21, 2020 at 11:00 a.m. with the Rev. Stephen P. Kelley, Celebrant. Visitation from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. Donations in Jack’s memory may be made to the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia at www.chop.edu 

Arrangements by the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc.


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Robert L. Deppen

Bob proudly served his country in the U.S Army and received an honorable discharge in 1962.

At Bob’s request there will be no service.

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Robert L. Deppen, 80, formerly of Mount Joy, passed away on Thursday, November 12, 2020 at the Elizabethtown Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center. Born in Lancaster, he was the foster son of Raymond and Ruth Burris.

Bob proudly served his country in the U.S Army and received an honorable discharge in 1962. He was a retired quarry worker and truck driver for the former Union Quarry in Rheems. In addition, he was a lifetime member of the Lebanon Valley Motorcycle Club.

He is survived by a son Robert Deppen; stepson, Edward Glant, Jr. He was preceded in death by a son, Rob; stepdaughter Debra Derr and his companion of 47 years Barbara Glant.

At Bob’s request there will be no service.

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


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Richard G. "Dick" Bransby

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Richard G. “Dick” Bransby, Sr., 83, of 28 S. 11th St. Columbia, PA, passed away on Wednesday at his residence. He was the husband of Margaret Sheehy Nikolaus Bransby. His first wife, Margaret “Peg” Marcello Bransby, preceded him in death in 1996. Born in Columbia, PA, he was the son of the late Paul C., Sr. and Cathleen Clouser Bransby. Dick retired in 1999 after 20 years of service as a Project Engineer for Herr & Sacco, Inc. Mechanical Contractors in Landisville. He previously worked for 15 years for Aggregates Equipment, Inc. in Leola. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Air Force. Dick was a member of Holy Trinity Catholic Church, the Holy Name Society, Knights of Columbus Council #2294, Catholic War Veterans Post #1306, the Susquehanna Fire Co., and the St. Vincent DePaul Society. Dick was an avid Notre Dame fan and enjoyed spending time at this cabin in Bradford County. He very much enjoyed spending time with his family. Surviving besides his wife are sons, Richard G. Jr., husband of Tammy Bransby, of Columbia; and Eric Bransby, of Columbia, PA; daughters, Kristina M., wife of Glenn Wall, Jr., of Columbia; and Stephanie A., wife of Steven Zeamer, of Lancaster, PA; stepsons, Paul J., husband of Roseann Nikolaus, of Columbia; Thomas F., husband of Eileen Nikolaus, of Columbia; and John M., husband of Mary Elizabeth Nikolaus, of Columbia; and a stepdaughter, Monica E., wife of Les Schoelkoph, of Columbia; and 15 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a brother: Paul C. Bransby, Jr.; and a sister: Charlotte “Sis” O’Reilly. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held from Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 4th & Cherry Streets, Columbia, PA, on Saturday, November 14, 2020 at 11 AM with Rev. Fr. Stephen Kelley as Celebrant. Visitation with the family from 10 AM until the time of Mass. Final Commendation and Farewell will be in Holy Trinity Catholic Cemetery. The family requests that flowers be omitted. Memorial contributions in Dick’s honor may be made to Holy Trinity Catholic Church. Because of COVID 19, masks will be required to enter the church. Please continue to practice social distancing. Arrangements by the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc.


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Robert F. Root

Funeral Services: Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home on Friday, November 13, 2020 at 11:00AM

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Robert F. “Rob” Root, 41 of 2643 Hemlock Dr. Columbia, PA died at the Christiana Hospital in New Castle, DE on November 8, 2020 from injuries sustained after being struck by an automobile. Born in Chester, PA he was the son of Beverly Burdett VonStetten and the late Stephan Root. Rob was a self-employed Artist. Surviving is his Mother and Step-Father: Beverly wife of Edward VonStetten of Columbia, PA., Sister: Heidi wife of Benjamin Benard of Pequea, PA., Brother: Steve husband of Rebeka Harig of Pine Grove, PA., 1 Niece, 2 Nephews, Aunts, Uncles and Cousins. Funeral Services for Rob will be held from the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc. 519 Walnut St. Columbia, PA on Friday, November 13, 2020 at 11:00AM (VIEWING: 10:00 AM – 11:00AM). Interment will be in Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens. This Service will be opened to anyone who wants to share memories of Rob, so come prepared to make any remarks if you choose to do so. Because of COVID 19, masks will be required to enter the Funeral Home. The family requests that flowers be omitted. Memorial Contributions may be made in Rob’s memory to MHA of Lancaster County and can be made online at mhalancaster.org.


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Noemi Fleet

A public visitation for Noemi will be held from 1:00 – 2:00 p.m. on Friday, November 13th, 2020 at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home

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Noemi Fleet, 47, of Lancaster, PA, passed away peacefully on November 7, of 2020. She was born in Bronx, New York, the daughter of Luz Diaz and the late Luis Mendez, and the youngest of six siblings. On April 26, 2019, she married her soul mate Tony Fleet. Noemi was extremely loving and proud of her five children: Sasha, Charles, Yasmine, Tywan Williams, and Kaiden Fleet. She was deeply loved by her five grandchildren: Jahmire, Mariah, Naviah, Melody, and London. Noemi was a hard-working, passionate Nursing Assistant for over 20 years. She loved every second she spent with family and friends. Noemi was a huge fan of the Philadelphia Eagles and will be deeply missed by her adoring family and friends.

A public visitation for Noemi will be held from 1:00 – 2:00 p.m. on Friday, November 13th, 2020 at the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, 519 Walnut St, Columbia, PA 17512. Funeral services will be private. She will be laid to rest at Mellinger Mennonite Cemetery in Lancaster. If attending any events, please wear a mask and practice social distancing. Flowers will be accepted.


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