Barry W. Hersh

 
 

Barry W. Hersh, 82, of Lancaster, passed away on Sunday, April 6, 2025, at Neffsville Nursing and Rehabilitation. He was the husband of Linda L. Goehrig Hersh to whom he was married for 35 years. He was born in Lancaster, son of the late Thomas and Mary Campbell Hersh Hess and stepfather Gene Hess. Barry was a veteran of the US Army and was an independent truck driver, who had the honor of being in the Million Mile Club. Members are drivers who have safely driven over a million miles without an accident. In his retirement, he worked at CTC, Mount Joy as a CDL Training/Examiner. Barry was a member of the American Legion, Post 34, Lancaster. He loved traveling in his motor home with his wife, Linda and grandson, Alex Brown. He was a fan of the Philadelphia Eagles and Phillies.

Surviving in addition to his wife, his stepdaughter: Barbara (Robert) Brinker. One grandson: Alex Brown. One sister: Karen Cassidy and one brother: Bill (Jean) Hersh. He was preceded in death by one brother: Reed Hersh.

A Memorial Service will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made in his memory to: the Wounded Warrior Project, PO Box 758516, Topeka, KS 66675-8516. Arrangements by the Workman Funeral Homes, Inc., Mountville/Columbia. To send an online condolence, visit the condolence page.

Uka Matin

 
 

Uka Matin, 90, passed away peacefully early on the morning of April 5, 2025. He was born on January 1, 1935, in Burma and made his way to Thailand in 1992. In September 2008, he moved to the United States with his daughter and her family. Uka was married to Naw Paw Sha, who sadly passed away in 1992. He is remembered and loved by his daughter, Lar Kbaw, and her husband Aung Dee. They live in Millersville with their children, Day Hser, Cho ChoPaw, Mu Paw Pah, Wee Gay Paw and Eh Dah all living in Millersville. Uka's family also includes seven children, twenty-six grandchildren, thirty-three great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild in Thailand. Uka owned a sizable piece of land where he enjoyed gardening and crafting bamboo fish traps. He loved watching sports games, especially volleyball and soccer. He loved to sing and found joy in reading his Bible. In the evenings, he liked going for rides, taking walks by the river to enjoy the fresh air. His warm spirit and love for family will always be cherished.

The Funeral Service will be held at Habecker Mennonite Church, 451 Habecker Church Road, Lancaster, on Saturday, April 12, 2025, at 10:00 A.M. Interment in Habecker Mennonite Cemetery. Viewing from 9:00 A.M. to 10:00 A.M. Arrangements by the Workman Funeral Homes, Inc., Mountville/Columbia. To send an online condolence, visit the condolence page.


Philbert C. "Corky" Sadler

 

 

Philbert C. "Corky" Sadler, 91, of Columbia, passed away on Saturday, April 5, 2025, at his home at Juniper Village. He was the husband of Jetty M. Pinkerton Sadler, with whom he would have celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary on May 25, 2025. He was born in Hanover, son of the late Melvin Sadler and Edith L. Shifflet Sadler Clawser. Corky was a mechanic at Armstrong World Industries for 44 years before his retirement in 1994. He was a veteran of the US Army serving during the Korean Conflict and was a graduate of Marietta High School, where he was the class president in 1951. Corky was a member of Columbia Presbyterian Church, where he served as a Deacon and Elder, and the American Legion Post #469, Wrightsville. He enjoyed traveling, going on cruises and woodworking.

Surviving in addition to his wife, two daughters: Diane L. (Randy) Moore, Indiana and Sharon (Rob) Lutz, Delaware. Three grandchildren: Christin, Mitchell and Jolene. Two great-grandchildren. Three stepdaughters and two stepsons. Two brothers: Melvin "Butch" (Judy) Sadler, Marietta and Ralph (Bonnie) Sadler, Dillsburg. One sister: Carolyn Ellison, Salem, NJ. He was preceded in death by two sisters: Janet Bonislawski and Linda Butler.

The Funeral Service will be held at the Workman Funeral Homes, Inc., 31 South Eighth Street, Columbia on Friday, April 11, 2025, at 11:00 A.M. with Rev. David C. Powers, officiating. The Viewing will be from 10:00 A.M. to 11:00 A.M. Interment in Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens with Full Military Honors. Please omit flowers. Memorial contributions may be made in his memory to: Columbia Presbyterian Church, Green Center, 360 Locust Street, Columbia, PA 17512. To send an online condolence, visit the condolence page.

Mary Catherine Roberts

 

 

Mary Catherine Roberts, 87, of Columbia, passed away on Saturday, April 5, 2025, at home. She was the wife of the late Harry E. “Flop” Roberts, III who passed away on July 26, 1987. She was born in Columbia, daughter of the late Raymond N. and Evelyn R. Byers Donley. Mary Catherine was a garment worker for Kahn-Lucas Manufacturing and was also a saleslady for Toy Ladies of America. She was an avid reader of Amish books, a Bingo player and a long-time member of the Hambones.

She is survived by four sons: Brian E. (Melanie) Roberts; Bruce R. (Billiejo) Roberts; Jeffrey S. “Scott” Roberts and Donald (Angie) Roberts, all of Columbia. Five grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by one son: Harry E. Roberts, IV and one daughter: Kim Beaston.

The Funeral Service will be held at the Workman Funeral Homes, Inc., 31 South Eighth Street, Columbia, on Tuesday, April 8, 2025 at 11:30 A.M. with Deacon Henry Reese, officiating. The Viewing will be from 10:30 A.M. to 11:30 A.M. Interment in Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens on WEDNESDAY, APRIL 9, 2025 at 11:00 A.M. Please omit flowers. Memorial contributions may be made in her memory to: Ann B. Barshinger Cancer Institute. To send an online condolence, visit the condolence page.

Anthony W. Helsel

 

 

Anthony W. Helsel, 56, of Manheim, passed away on Thursday, April 3, 2025, at home. He was the husband of Myrna J. Bloom Helsel, to whom he was married for 20 years. He was born in Lewistown, son of the late Brenda C. Snyder Harker. Anthony worked as a paramedic for MESA, having received his certification from Reading Hospital in 2006 and was a Veteran of the US Navy. He was a member of Maytown-East Donegal Township Fire Department; a member of Columbia Fire Company No. 1 and the Columbia Community Ambulance Association.

Surviving in addition to his wife, one stepson: Adam M. (Briane) Hetter, Maytown. One granddaughter: Leah M. Hetter. One brother: Robert Helsel, Everett.

The Funeral Service will be held at the Workman Funeral Homes, Inc., 31 South Eighth Street, Columbia on Saturday, April 12, 2025, at 2:00 P.M. with Rev. Jesse DeJesus, officiating. Friends may call for a viewing from 1:00 P.M. to 2:00 P.M. Interment in Mount Bethel Cemetery. Please omit flowers. Memorial contributions may be made in his memory to: Maytown-East Donegal Township Fire Department. To send an online condolence, visit the condolence page.

Lloyd K. Stauffer, Jr.

Lloyd K. Stauffer, Jr., 68, of Columbia, passed away on Thursday, April 3, 2025, at home. He was the husband of Tammy R. Dolan Stauffer, with whom he would have celebrated their 32nd wedding anniversary on April 9, 2025. He was born in Columbia, son of the late Lloyd K., Sr. and Mildred I. Luttman Stauffer. He was a maintenance technician for ITT Grinnell for 38 years before retiring in 2013. Lloyd enjoyed O Gauge Trains and was a member of the Lower Susquehanna Valley Train Club.

Surviving in addition to his wife, one daughter: Jamie L. (Matthew) Bell, Bainbridge. Three grandchildren: Madison, Mason and McKenzie Bell.

A Private Service will be held for the family. Memorial contributions may be made in his memory to: the PA SPCA , Lancaster Center, 848 South Prince Street, Lancaster, PA 17603. Arrangements by the Workman Funeral Homes, Inc., Columbia/Mountville. To send an online condolence, visit the condolence page.

Gladys V. Smith

 
 

Gladys V. Smith, 95, of Craley, passed away on Monday, March 17, 2025, in York. She was the wife of the late Dallas E. "Johnny" Smith. She was born in Lower Windsor Township, daughter of the late John H. and Janet M. Graham Keller. Gladys was a warehouse worker for McCory's before her retirement. She was a longtime member of St. Paul's United Methodist Church, Craley.

She is survived by one son: Jeffrey E. (Belinda) Smith and one daughter: Kitty L. (Gary L.) Craley, all of Red Lion. Six grandchildren: Derek Smith, Amanda (Kevin) Wolgemuth, Charles Smith, Adam Smith, Stacia (Marshall) McGurk and Megan Craley. Two great-grandsons and two foster great-grandsons.

The Graveside Service and Burial will be held at Craley Cemetery on Saturday, March 29, 2025, at 11:30 A.M. with Pastor David Hildebrand, officiating. Arrangements by the Workman Funeral Homes, Inc., Columbia/Mountville. To send an online condolence, visit the condolence page.

Mark C. Gamber

 

 

Mark C. Gamber, 61, of Mountville, passed away on Friday, March 14, 2025, at home. He was the husband of Dodie L. Keiser Gamber whom he married on February 17, 2025. He was born in Lancaster, son of the late Dennis and Anna Mae Burnhardt Gamber. Mark worked as a machinist.

Surviving in addition to his wife, three daughters: Tiffany A. Gamber; Jazmyn Boyer and Elizabeth Gamber. One stepson: Daniel Barreto. Twelve grandchildren with one on the way. One great-grandson. One sister: Cheryl Gamber. Mark was preceded in death by one brother: Dennis Gamber.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at Manor Church, 530 Central Manor Road, Lancaster on SATURDAY, MARCH 29, 2025 from 11:00 A.M. until 3:00 P.M. a luncheon will follow. Please bring memories of Mark to share with Mark’s family. Arrangements by the Workman Funeral Homes, Inc., Mountville/Columbia. To send an online condolence, visit the condolence page.

Alice I. McCauley

 

 

Alice I. McCauley, 91, of Columbia, passed away on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, at St. Anne's Retirement Community. She was the wife of the late, Lawrence "Mac" McCauley, who passed away on January 9, 2010. She was born in Marietta, daughter of the late Norman and Cora Myers Derr. Alice worked in the testing department of ITT Grinnell before her retirement in 1998. Following her retirement, she worked at Sears, Park City Center. She was a member of Columbia Church of God. Alice enjoyed going out to eat, craft shows, antiquing and her family, especially cooking Sunday dinners for them.

She is survived by two sons: Larry J. (Dianne P.) McCauley, Columbia and William J. (Lori A.) McCauley, Hellam. Three daughters: Deborah K. (Leo W.) Gillette, Mount Joy; Patricia A. (Rick L.) Barnett, Centerville and Karen L. (Craig D.) Lopez, Landisville. Ten grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren. One sister: Hazel Kilmore, Columbia. She was preceded in death by one grandson: Keith A. Gillette and siblings: Mary, Wilbur and Edwin Derr.

The Family would like to thank the staff at St. Anne's Retirement Community and Hospice and Community Care for the care shown to Alice and her family.

The Funeral Service will be held at Community Bible Church, 331 Anderson Ferry Road, Marietta on Friday, March 21, 2025, at 11:00 A.M. with Pastor Guy Rathmell, officiating. The Viewing will be from 10:00 A.M. to 11:00 A.M. Interment in Silver Spring Cemetery. Arrangements by the Workman Funeral Homes, Inc., Columbia/Mountville. To send an online condolence, visit the condolence page

Mary Anne Arbutina

 
 

Mary Anne Arbutina, 84, of Columbia, passed away on Tuesday, March 11, 2025. She was the wife of the late Joseph Y. Arbutina, who passed away on December 29, 2009. She worked as a seamstress for Donegal Industries for 23 years before her retirement.

Mary Anne loved cats, fine arts, fine clothing and classical music.

She is survived by one daughter: Heather Arbutina, Columbia and one son: Joel Arbutina, California. Two grandchildren: Austin and Lily. One great-grandson and one on the way. One brother: Larry Resch, California.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at a later date. Arrangements by the Workman Funeral Homes, Inc., Columbia/Mountville. To send an online condolence, visit the condolence page.

Larrie E. Kreider

 
 
 
 

Larrie E. Kreider, of Columbia, passed away on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, with his wife of 30 years, Theresa Wissler Kreider, by his side. Larrie was born in Washington, DC, son of the late Harry and Agnus Gilner Kreider, and moved to Lancaster County as a young boy. He and his family were farmers in Lancaster County prior to moving to Dover, York County, where they continued to farm. Larrie often talked fondly about his years as a teenager farming.

Shortly after his graduation from Dover High School, Larrie began work at Wyeth Pharmaceutical Company, Marietta, where he worked for 35 years. As a young man, he moved to Columbia, where he and his family were long time residents. Larrie especially enjoyed watching his sons wrestle and play other sports for the Crimson Tide. Even after moving from the town, he enjoyed going to the Tide basketball games and would often have breakfast at Hinkles.

Larrie loved to travel. He and his wife visited all 50 states, and numerous countries, with his favorite being Italy. He also was an avid motorcyclist and took a solo trip across the country on his Harley Davidson, in 2008. Whether it be a motorcycle, car or truck, Larrie loved to be on the road. Following his retirement from Wyeth, he worked for 17 years at Kelly Cadillac, driving customers to and from the shop for service. Another passion was golf, and for many years he enjoyed going to Myrtle Beach with his brothers-in-law and numerous friends for their annual golf outing. One of Larrie's favorite memories were annual camping trips to Raystown Lake, boating with his children and grandchildren.

In his later years, Larrie spent many days at Landis Homes Adult Day Center and had many fond memories of his friends and the staff there. His family would like to thank the staff at the Center for their kindness and in helping to bring purpose to his days. His family would also like to thank the staff at Luther Acres where Larrie spent the last 2.5 months. When Larrie wasn't at the Adult Day Center, one could find him sitting on his front porch with his dog, Harley.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by four sons: Daniel Kreider, Clyde, OH; Brad (Linda) Kreider, Betterton, MD; Brian (Karen) Kreider, Sunset Beach, NC and Shawn (Renee) Kreider, Manheim. Numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren. One sister: Rose Leas. He is also survived by his brother-in-law: William (Brenda) Wissler, and sisters-in-law: Mary Kay (Steve) Transue and Lisa (Doug) Kline.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Larrie's memory to: Landis Homes Adult Day Center, Luther Acres or a charity of your choice. Arrangements by the Workman Funeral Homes, Inc., Columbia/Mountville. To send an online condolence, visit the condolence page.

Kenneth E. Wile

 
 

Kenneth E. Wile, 85, of Columbia, formerly of Mountville where he was born and raised, passed away peacefully from CHF on Friday, March 7, 2025. For 60 years he was married to the late Susan M. Wile before she passed away on December 13, 2020. He was the son of the late Richard and Fiana Glick Wile.  

Ken graduated from Hempfield High School, Class of 1959, and received his Journeyman Plumber license and retired from Armstrong World Industries. After retirement he worked for the The Windrift Hotel in Stone Harbor, Wile Plumbing and ACE Hardware in Columbia. He was a member of St. Johns Evangelical Lutheran Church and Chickies Rock Moose #307.

Ken enjoyed life to the fullest! Sitting in the sun on the front porch, taking car rides, Stone Harbor and most importantly spending time with family.

He is survived by his greatest joys in life, his four daughters: Tami (Mark) Lantz, Lancaster; Tracy (late Donald) Arndt, Columbia; Michelle (Steve) Harnish, Murfreesboro, TN and Kimberly (Dominick) Plastino, Antioch, TN. Seven grandchildren: Drew, Joshua, Kylee, Matthew, Amanda, Jamie and Holly. Five great-grandchildren: Margo, Maverick, Jace, Mackenzie and Kali. His brothers: Ronald (Carol) Wile and Dale Wile. He was preceded in death by his sister: Joanne.

The Memorial Service will be held at St. Johns Evangelical Lutheran Church, Sixth and Locust Streets, Columbia, PA 17512 on SATURDAY, APRIL 5, 2025, at 11:00 A.M. Visitation from 9:30 A.M. to 10:45 A.M. Please dress casually. Ken enjoyed the music in the park series by the Columbia Lions Club and also, in his earlier years, packing food boxes for Christmas. Therefore, please omit flowers. Donations may be made in his memory: the Columbia Lions Club, PO Box 569, Columbia, PA 17512 to defray the cost of bands and food box items. Arrangements by the Workman Funeral Homes, Inc., Columbia/Mountville. To send an online condolence, visit the condolence page.

Thelma G. Edwards

 
 

Thelma G. Edwards, 90, of Elizabethtown, passed away on Friday, March 7, 2025, at home. She was the wife of the late Paul Leroy Edwards, Sr. who passed away on June 14, 2003. She was born in Huntington, daughter of the late Fred and Martha Crownover Bowman. Thelma retired from being a devoted, caring, LPN for 50 years, where she made many friends along the way.

She is survived by her son: Terry Edwards, Mountville. Two daughters: Christel Edwards, Elizabethtown and Melody Edwards, Mountville. Four grandchildren. Two great-grandchildren and one great-great-granddaughter. One sister: Becky Plate, Huntington. Daughter-in-law: Carol Edwards, Elizabethtown. She was preceded in death by her son: Paul Leroy Edwards, Jr.

Arrangements by the Workman Funeral Homes, Inc., Mountville/Columbia. To send an online condolence, visit the condolence page.

Marion Burrell Fritz

 
 

Marion Burrell Fritz, 91, a resident of West Hempfield Township, Lancaster, passed away at the home she shared for 23 years with son Stephen and wife Margaret (“Meg”) on February 27, 2025, with family present.

Marion was a retired nurse, graduating from Allegheny General Hospital in 1954, and receiving her RN from Rowan University. She was a former Minister in the Salvation Army, graduating from The Salvation Army Training School (Bronx, NY) in 1959. She was a longtime officer in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), ordained both as Deacon and Ruling Elder, and an active member of Presbyterian Women and Wayside Presbyterian Church in Landisville, PA, where son Stephen is Pastor. Marion had a heart for refugees and marginal populations, always caring and advocating for “the least of these.” (Matthew 25:40)

Marion was born into a Salvation Army family with Minister parents Hedley and Linnie Mae (McAmmond) Burrell, speaking often of their Welsh and Canadian heritage. She was predeceased by her parents and three siblings, Muriel Clay (Geoffrey, Ohio), Ruth Laws (George, Florida), and Hedley Burrell (Ellen, Arizona). She was also predeceased by her husband, the Rev. Dr. Howard W. Fritz, and first son, Dr. Howard W. Fritz, Jr. (Leah, Pennsylvania).

Marion is survived by her sister, Myrtle Brownson (William, Ohio), daughter Kimberlee Comerford (Thomas, New Jersey), son Rev. Dr. Stephen Fritz (Margaret, Pennsylvania), son Jon Fritz (West Virginia), son Andrew Fritz (New Jersey), 14 grandchildren, and 5 great grandchildren. Granddaughter Sarah Fritz assisted Steve and Meg in excellent caregiving in the last years of both Howard’s and Marion’s lives. The family thanks Hospice & Community Care for their service of comfort during the last three months.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 A.M., Saturday, March 22, 2025, at Wayside Presbyterian
Church, 600 Stony Battery Road, Landisville, PA, 17538 (waysidepc.org), with family leading the service. The service will be livestreamed on Vimeo through Wayside’s website and Facebook page.  Interment will immediately follow in the church’s Memorial/Reflection Garden. Visitation will occur during the luncheon afterward in the church’s atrium. Please omit flowers. Memorial contributions can be made in Marion’s memory to: Wayside Presbyterian Church / Memorial Fund.

Arrangements by the Workman Funeral Homes, Inc. Mountville/Columbia. To send an online condolence, visit the condolence page.

 

 

Theona A. Cappabianca

 
 

Theona A. Cappabianca, 91, of Lancaster, passed away on Monday, March 3, 2025 at Homestead Village. She was the wife of the late Frank J. Cappabianca who passed away in 2021. She was born in Providence, RI, daughter of the late Simeone and Ursula H. Madden Mancini. Theona was an executive secretary for Monarch Life Insurance Company, Springfield, MA. She was a member of Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church, Lancaster and AARP. She enjoyed reading and traveling. 

She is survived by her sons: Paul (Jeanne) Cappabianca, Round Rock, TX; John (Vicki) Cappabianca, York; and Daniel (Mary) Cappabianca, Kailua, HI. Daughters: Maria (Michael) Cox, Wakefield, KS and Lara (Pete) Asarese, South Hadley, MA. Ten grandchildren. Five great-grandchildren. 

The Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church, 558 West Walnut Street, Lancaster, PA 17603 on Tuesday, March 11, 2025, at 11:00 A.M with Rev. Michael Metzgar, Celebrant. Visitation from 10:00 A.M. to 11:00A.M. Private interment will be in St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery, Bristol, RI. Please omit flowers. Memorial contributions may be made in her memory to: Sacred Heart Catholic Church. Arrangements by the Workman Funeral Homes, Inc. Mountville/Columbia. To send an online condolence, visit the condolence page.

Patricia A. Martin Ritzman

 
 

Patricia A. Martin Ritzman, 91, of Silver Spring, passed away on Saturday, March 1, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. She was the wife of the late Roy R. Ritzman, Sr., who passed away in 2003, to whom she was married for 51 years. Pat was born in Columbia, daughter of the late Joseph and Matilda Becker Martin. She was the 10th of 11 children, all who have since passed away. She held various jobs during her long life, each contributing to her community and family. For 14 years, she was a beloved member of the team at Forry's Country Store, Silver Spring, retiring at the age of 84, leaving behind a legacy of hard work and dedication. In her younger years, Pat was very involved with the Silver Spring Fire Company Auxiliary, making many meals, and was a lifetime member. She enjoyed crocheting, bowling, gardening and visiting with her grandchildren both in Pennsylvania and Iowa.

She is survived by her children: Dianne (David) Keller, Dallas Center, IA; E. Susan (Daniel) Smith, Lancaster and Scott Ritzman (fiancé of Jo Ellen Holler), Denver. Eight grandchildren: Justine, Jody, Joshalyn, Dwaine, Donita, Jason, Devon and Dale. Twenty-nine great-grandchildren. Four great-great-grandchildren, with number five on the way. She was preceded in death by her son: Roy R. Ritzman, Jr. and granddaughter: Darla Castle. She will be greatly missed by all of her family and friends.

The Funeral Service will be held at the Workman Funeral Homes, Inc., 114 West Main Street, Mountville on Friday, March 7, 2025, at 1:30 P.M. with Pastor David Sauder, officiating. The Visitation will be held from 12:30 P.M. to 1:30 P.M. Interment in Silver Spring Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to: Serenity Hospice, 205 Granite Run Drive, Lancaster, PA 17601 or West Hempfield Fire and Rescue, 3476 Marietta Avenue, Lancaster, PA 17601. To send an online condolence, visit the condolence page.

Garry P. Bowser, Sr.

 

 

Garry P. Bowser, Sr., 76, of York, went home to be with his Savior on Saturday, March 1, 2025. He was the beloved husband of Judy Bowser for 26 years. He was born in York, son of the late Robert and Betty Billet Bowser. Garry grew up in Craley and graduated from Eastern High School. He proudly served in the US Air Force as a firefighter. Garry retired as a tool and die maker for Caterpillar, Inc. and later worked at Product Design & Development.

Garry Loved his Lord and Savior, taught AWANA and was a member of East Side Bible Church.

Surviving in addition to his wife are his children: Garry, Jr. (Steph); Joe, Amy Kreiger (Larry) and Josh Lipman (Kellie). Ten grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren. Siblings: John (Mary) and Lynn Lloyd (Greg). He was preceded in death by siblings: Wynn; Robert, Jr. (Brenica); Ronald (Joanne) and Julie Shaeffer (John).

A Memorial Service will be held at East Side Bible Church, 1035 Adams Road, Wrightsville on Thursday, March 6, 2025, at 1:30 P.M. Arrangements by the Workman Funeral Homes, Inc., Mountville/Columbia. To send an online condolence, visit the condolence page.

Linda M. Metzger

 
 

Linda M. Metzger, 77, of Mountville, passed away on Wednesday, February 19, 2025. She was born in Mountville, daughter of the late Cleon M. and Marie L. Chillas Elslager.

Linda was so many good things.

A long time ago, Linda said that she wanted to make her final wishes simple and practical. "There will be no formal funeral," she said. When Linda spoke, it was best to listen. No exclamation was required.

Linda was inspired by other people who had unconventional obituaries--offering recipes, poems, and salient advice when they passed. This champion and energetic runner, Hempfield High School, Class of 1965 graduate, Fulton Bank employee, Hempfield food service worker, and crossing guard was a dynamic lady of the community.

That is a lot of quality to cram into one sentence. She was practical; that is how she would like it.

She won top-state prizes for her chocolate bon bon confections, a recipe she demanded to be shared in her obituary.

Linda had the loudest voice any mother could own in our neighborhood. When she called for her two children to come home at the end of a playful day, daughter Shona and son Todd would move faster than any human thought possible. Every kid, dog and blade of grass heard her. The grass still shudders from her voice to this day--40 years later.

We will miss that voice--boisterous, serious and concerned.

There was power in her voice. She was power.

Linda resonated in other ways as a stalwart, determined an uncompromising person of principle; that was Mom. She chose quality instead of quantity, which is why we celebrate her as she had wished.

There are no words that can express the sorrow, the void that she leaves. Linda was a brilliant baker, making every kind of bread, cookie, cake and pie. This Mountville native, this grandmother of Emily and Grace, and the wife of William for 55 years, was independent, generous and a good kind of stubborn.

She was stern.

She was frugal.

She was beautiful.

She was Mom.

Please celebrate her life with us by making these chocolate delights.

Disclaimer: Her estate is not responsible for increases in waist sizes. Yes, the bon bons are that good.

We love you, Mom

Recipe:

Peanut Butter Chocolate Bon Bons:

12 ounces peanut butter

1 stick butter

1.5 cups confectioner sugar

3.5 cups crispy rice cereal

Paraffin wax (as needed)

Block or bag of real chocolate--semisweet or silky milk chocolate (about 15 ounces)

In a saucepan, melt peanut butter and butter. When liquid, add confectioner sugar. Be aware of confectioner sugar lumps. Whisk away lumps. They are pesky, like unknown relatives who have discovered you won the lottery. Be aware. In a large bowl, pour melted mixture over cereal and blend. Chill, slightly. 

When chilled, form dough into balls. Chill formed balls until firm. 

Coating: Melt chocolate. Add paraffin wax to melted chocolate--one teaspoon to start. This depends on humidity, external temperature and whether or not you follow the required recipe ingredient measurements. You know who you are, and she will know. Paraffin will give the chocolate gloss, a glazed shine. Coat balls with melted chocolate. Cool. Eat if you dare. You would want to.

Arrangements by the Workman Funeral Homes, Inc., Mountville/Columbia. To send an online condolence, visit the condolence page.

Lester E. "Jake" Funk, Jr.

 

 

Lester E. “Jake” Funk, Jr., 66, of Manor Township, passed away Friday, February 21, 2025, peacefully, surrounded by family, at Lancaster General Hospital. He was born in Lancaster. Jake was a son of Betty Armold Funk and the late Lester Funk, Sr. He has three sisters: Deborah Nissley (late Lynn Nissley, Sr.), Lucy Nissley (David Nissley) and Barbara Murry (late Jim Murry). Jake was a loving husband to Kerry A. Funk with whom he celebrated 29 years of marriage. 

Jake spent the last 22 years working at D.H. Funk & Sons, where many knew him as a dedicated worker. He loved to spend time in the garage restoring John Deere lawnmowers with his son, Josh. One of his favorite places was the cabin, “Camp Hit or Miss”, where he spent time with his friends and family. Jake was known by his special sense of humor and reliability. He was a great example of how a man takes care of his family. If you knew Jake, you knew he had a love for beagles especially his first beagle Katie, Josh’s beagle mix Daisy, Hannah’s beagle Miley, and the newest family addition: Sadie. Not a day will go by where we don’t think of you, Dad. Your family and your community love you dearly. 

Surviving in addition to his wife, mother and sisters, are his children: Kimberly Lainez (Husband: Chris Lainez), Shawn King (Significant Other: Samantha Hankard), Joshua Funk (Significant Other: Sierra Jones), and Hannah Funk (Significant Other: Jordan Singh); and his four grandchildren: Charlotte and Everleigh Lainez, and Greyson and Stone King. Jake is also survived by his many friends and family. 

A viewing will be held at Workman Funeral Homes, Inc., 114 West Main St, Mountville, on Friday, February 28, 2025 from 6:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M.

The Funeral Service will be held at Central Manor Church, 387 Penn St, Washington Boro, on Sunday, March 2, 2025 at 2:00 P.M. Viewing also from 1:00 P.M to 2:00 P.M. A meal will be served following the service.

Contributions can be made to: the COPD Foundation in honor of Jake: copdfoundation.org 

To send an online condolence, visit: Workmanfuneralhomes.com

 

Catherine C. Sheridan

Catherine C. Sheridan, 79, of West Hempfield Township, passed away on Sunday, February 16, 2025, at Hospice and Community Care, Mount Joy. She was the wife of the late James Sheridan. Catherine was born in Philadelphia, daughter of the late Ralph C. and Madeline C. Binsfeld Cornwell. She worked as an assembler at Jentec and also Elk Mountain Ski Resort. Catherine was of the Catholic faith and enjoyed puzzles, making doll houses, watching horror movies, yardwork and especially being with her family.

She is survived by two daughters: Deidre D. (David E.) Shertz, Mountville and Donna L. Hill, Lebanon. One son: William J. Baker, York. Six grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.

The Funeral Service will be held at the Workman Funeral Homes, Inc., 114 West Main Street, Mountville on Saturday, February 22, 2025 at 1:00 P.M. with the viewing from 12:00 Noon to 1:00 P.M. Please omit flowers. Memorial contributions may be made in her memory to: Hospice and Community Care, PO Box 4125, Lancaster, PA 17604-4125. To send an online condolence, visit the condolence page.