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.

Christopher E. McGee

Christopher E. McGee, 80, of Mountville, passed away on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, at Lancaster General Hospital, under the care of Hospice and Community Care. He was the husband of the late Nancy E. Hogan McGee who passed away on February 12, 2008. Chris was born in Shamokin and raised in Mount Carmel, son of the late Christopher C. and Katherine Kakiel McGee.

Chris studied Fire Protection Engineering at the University of Maryland on an academic scholarship. He worked in Loss Prevention and Engineering departments in the insurance industry for Middle Department Association of Fire Underwriters, Continental Insurance Company, Alexander and Alexander, Inc., and he was the former president of Mutual Inspection Bureau in Harrisburg. He was an Emeritus member of the American Society of Safety Engineers. Chris was a certified building code inspector and worked as a project manager for two Lancaster-based development companies prior to retirement.

He was a fan of Philadelphia sports teams. He loved the Eagles, Phillies, and Union. He also enjoyed sailboat racing, wood carving, riddles, solving puzzles and intricate physics problems.

Chris was a member of St. Peter Catholic Church and their choir, where he sang for many years; the Knights of Columbus, Council #2290; and the Chesapeake Bay Foundation.

He is survived by three daughters: Mary Munster (Jeff); Jennifer Miller (Mark) and Liz McGee-Fredericks (Drew). Six grandchildren: Erin, Ann, and Nathan Patterson; Bryana Miller; Kelsey Munster; and Aidan Fredericks. Two great-grandsons: Kayden Kramer and Sidney Brooks. Siblings: Eugene C. McGee (Eileen) and Kay Ann Wanzi (Bruce). Cousin: Tony Kakiel (Cheryl).

Chris also wished to acknowledge his very special friend Nancy (Snyder) Sadowski and her daughter and son-in-law: Christy and Eric Laub.

A Private Burial will be held for the family in Mountville Cemetery. Memorial contributions to honor Chris may be made to: Lancaster Public Library, 151 North Queen Street, Lancaster, PA 17603 or through their website. Please specify that the donation is for the Mountville Branch. Arrangements by the Workman Funeral Homes, Inc., Mountville/Columbia. To send an online condolence, visit the condolence page.

Donald E. "Don" Miller

Donald E. "Don" Miller, 83, of Lancaster, passed away on Sunday, February 9, 2025. He was the husband of Virginia "Ginny" Brown Miller, to whom he was married for 57 years. He was born in Lancaster, son of the late Richard and Rose Elizabeth Woerner Miller. Don worked in the circulation department for 52 years before retiring in 2007. He was a member of Community Bible Church, and was a Veteran of the US Army, serving during the Vietnam Conflict. Don loved model trains and his family.

Surviving in addition to his wife, one son: Kenneth E. Miller, Marietta. One daughter: Vicki D. (Steve) Hale, New Holland. Three granddaughters: Anna-Elise, Paige and Naomi. Three step-grandsons: Matthew (Samantha); Michael and Liam. Two brothers: William (Judy) Miller and Barry (Anne) Miller.

The Funeral Service will be held at Community Bible Church, 331 Anderson Ferry Road, Marietta, PA 17547 on Sunday, February 16, 2025 at 3:00 P.M. with Pastor Jeff Burkholder, officiating. The family will greet friends following the service. Private Interment in Millersville Mennonite Cemetery with Full Military Honors. Please omit flowers. Memorial contributions may be made in his memory to: Community Bible Church Youth Group. Arrangements by the Workman Funeral Homes, Inc., Mountville/Columbia. To send an online condolence, visit the condolence page.

Patricia S. Henry

Patricia S. Henry, 82, of Washington Boro, breathed her first breath of heavenly air after passing from this life on Thursday, February 6, 2025. She was born in Abington, PA, the eldest daughter of the late Frank Y., Sr. and E. Susan Henderson. She was the wife of the late Glenn A. Henry who preceded her in death and was waiting to welcome her to their heavenly home.

Traveling was a big part of Pat's early life with time spent visiting grandparents in California in the summers and calling Bermuda "home" while in her teen years. In her previous marriage, the work of her husband caused frequent moves and she, with her young family, spent time living in Maryland, Florida, Alabama and Pennsylvania. It was in Washington Boro where she found a loving community of friends and neighbors who she considered her extended family, that she felt truly "home".

Her talents were many - art (oil, pencil and watercolor), baking, cooking, crafts, gardening, teaching and volunteering. Those talents were fueled by a heart of care and service. This was evidenced most beautifully in her care for her husband, Glenn. Her devotion to his personal care and quality of life for over 41 years, spoke volumes to her children, family, friends and neighbors.

Family was central to Pat's life, and she made particular efforts to make each holiday full of food, laughter and gifts. And, with her heart for others, it was normal that those seated around the table included traditional and adopted family.

Surviving are her three children: Michael B. (Susan S.) Julian; Susan G. Aldinger (Raymond J. Pennino); and David Y. (Nicole B.) Julian. Pat also leaves behind 9 grandchildren: Dakota, Skyler, Abby, Kadia, Matt, Bryce, Elijah, Nyssa, Tayah and 3 great-grandchildren: Watson, Wren and Paxton. Additionally, she is survived by a brother: Frank (Diane) Henderson, Jr. and sister: Janet (Jim) Helsel. Many other "children of the heart" will feel the loss of this dear one as well.

The Celebration of Life Service will be held at Faith Bible Fellowship Church, 151 Donerville Road, Lancaster, PA 17603, (TODAY), SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2025, at 11:00 A.M. with Pastor Neil J. Franklin, officiating. Visitation will be from 10:00 A.M. to 11:00 A.M. Interment in Washington Boro Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to: Samaritan's Purse (www.samaritanspurse.org/our-ministry/donate-online/) Arrangements by the Workman Funeral Homes, Inc., Columbia/Mountville. To send an online condolence, visit the condolence page.

Richard W. "Rick" Murry

Richard W. "Rick" Murry, 68, passed away on Friday, January 31, 2025, in Lancaster. He was the husband of Stacy L. Styer Murry, with whom he was together for 42 years. He was born in Lancaster, son of the late Richard B. and Joanne A. Weitzel Murry. Rick was the owner of Murry Mower Shop and also worked in security at Lancaster Nursing and Rehabilitation Center (Conestoga View). He had numerous passions during his lifetime.

He is survived by one son: Christopher L. (Tracey) Ditzler and one daughter: Jamy L. Ditzler. Two granddaughters: Anya and Kennedy. One brother: Brian L. "Jake" Murry. One sister: Karen E. (Ralph D.) Jackson. Three nieces. He was preceded in death by one sister: Brenda Lynn Murry.

The Memorial Service will be held at the Workman Funeral Homes, Inc., 114 West Main Street, Mountville on Thursday, February 6, 2025 at 11:00 A.M. Visitation from 10:00 A.M. to 11:00 A.M. Private interment in Mountville Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in his memory to: the Humane League of Lancaster County. To send an online condolence, visit the condolence page.

Arthur E. Niesley

Arthur E. Niesley, 94, passed away on Sunday, January 16, 2025, at St Anne’s Retirement Community, Columbia, PA. He was born in Carlisle, son of the late Cyrus G. and Anna M. Cockley Niesley. He grew up on the family farm outside of Churchtown PA. He attended Messiah Academy in Grantham, PA. After a short time as a self-employed dairy farmer, Arthur spent the next four decades with the Christian Light Bookstores starting as a bookkeeper at the Elizabethtown store. He then went on to manage multiple store locations, first the Elizabethtown store then the Nappanee, Indiana store and concluding his career as the manager at the York location, until his retirement in 1995.

A member of Manor Church, Arthur was a member of Brethren in Christ Churches throughout his life. Arthur expressed his faith through his active involvement in church activities. He frequently served as a worship leader and participated in quartets and choirs.

He sang with the Grantham Oratorio Society, where he met his beloved wife, Janet. In December 2024 they celebrated 72 years of marriage.

Arthur loved books and reading which made working in a bookstore a natural fit. He loved outdoor activities. After his retirement he was an avid cyclist, especially on the Heritage Trail in York, where he lived from 1975 until he and Janet moved to St. Anne’s Retirement Community, in 2017.

Arthur's kind and welcoming personality endeared him to so many who met him. He cherished the opportunity to meet new people and share his faith and joy with others.

Arthur is survived by his wife, Janet Niesley; sons: Alan (Diane) Niesley and Duane (Cindy) Niesley; daughter: Sharon (Steve) Barton; sister: Ruth Zercher; five grandchildren: Nathan (Alice), Faith (Luc) Gischler, Serena, Josiah, Joanna (Jason) Smith and five great-grandchildren: Emma, Noémie, Benjamin, Lanie and Cohen. He was preceded in death by his infant son Brian. Sister: Helen Martin and Brothers: John and Marlin Niesley.

The family wants to give special thanks to St. Anne’s Retirement Community staff and the Hospice and Community Care staff, for their outstanding care of Arthur, during his last days.

The Memorial Service will be held at Manor Church, 530 Central Manor Rd, Lancaster PA, on Friday, March 7th, 2025, at 11:00 AM, with a meal following. The Visitation will be from 10:00 A.M. to 11:00 A.M. Memorial gifts in honor of Arthur’s life can be mailed to: St Anne’s Retirement Community Giving Office, 3952 Columbia Ave., Columbia PA 17512. Arrangements by the Workman Funeral Homes, Inc., Mountville/Columbia. To send an online condolence, visit the condolence page.

Arthur will be deeply missed.

Alfred H. Snyder, Jr.

Alfred H. Snyder, Jr., 67, of Fredericksburg, passed away on Monday, January 27, 2025, at Susquehanna Rehabilitation Health Care Center, Columbia. He was born in Pottsville, son of the late Alfred H., Sr. and Jennie J. Wolfe Snyder. Alfred was a graduate of North Lebanon High School, Class of 1975. He was a furnace attendant for Millards Quarry, Annville. Alfred loved Harley Davidson Motorcycles, model cars and model trains.

He is survived by one brother: Jeffrey A. (Denise K.) Snyder, Jonestown. One sister: Dawn M. Bucher, Cumberland, MD. Nieces and nephews: Johnathan (Melissa) Snyder; Courtney Snyder; Alicia Snyder; Jeremy (Katherine) Haines and Felix Snyder.

The Memorial Service will be held at Annville Church of the Brethren, 495 East Maple Street, Annville on Saturday, February 8, 2025, at 1:00 P.M. with Pastor Michael Shearer, officiating. Visitation time and reception will follow. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: the Multiple Sclerosis Society, PA Keystone Chapter, 2000 Linglestown Road, Suite 201, Harrisburg, PA 17110. Arrangements by the Workman Funeral Homes, Inc., Mountville/Columbia, To send an online condolence, visit the condolence page.

Miriam R. Cramer

Miriam R. Cramer, 92, of Lancaster, passed away on Tuesday, January 28, 2025. She was the wife of Larry A. Cramer. Miriam was born in Rapho Township, daughter of the late Maurice H. and Pearl Hinkle Emenheiser. She enjoyed reading.

Surviving is her son: George Nelson Leschke. Four grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren. Two brothers and one sister. She was preceded in death by one sister.

The Graveside Service and Burial will be held at Riverview Burial Park on Tuesday, February 4, 2025 at 2:00 P.M. A Private Viewing will be held. Arrangements by the Workman Funeral Homes, Inc. To send an online condolence, visit the condolence page.

Jack Robert Cunningham

Jack Robert Cunningham, 84, of Lancaster, passed peacefully while sleeping on Sunday, January 26, 2025. He was born in Lancaster, son of the late Robert and Jeanne Cunningham. Jack had a great entrepreneurial spirit having opened and built a phenomenal business called the "Saltbox/American Period Lighting." He sold lights locally and across the nation for over 30 years. Jack was a friend to all, and you could always count on him to listen and offer some sage advice. He was quick to laugh and loved life. We will all miss him.

He is survived by one son: Bryan S. Cunningham, Gilroy, CA and one daughter: Kelly A. (Charles F.) Ortlieb, Lititz. Four grandchildren: Ryan, Kaitlin, Zachary and Alyssa. Also, five great-grandchildren.

A Time of Sharing and Memories will be held at the Workman Funeral Homes, Inc., 114 West Main Street, Mountville on Saturday, February 1, 2025, from 9:30 A.M. to 11:00 A.M. Please omit flowers. Memorial contributions may be made in his memory to: Hospice and Community Care, PO Box 4125, Lancaster, PA 17604-4125. To send an online condolence, visit the condolence page.

Nevin H. Zuck

Nevin H. Zuck, 75, of Elizabethtown, passed away under hospice care, on Saturday, January 25, 2025, after a protracted bout with aspirational pneumonia. He was the husband of the late Anna Fox Zuck, who passed away in 2017. He was born in Lancaster, son of the late Nevin and Leah Musser Zuck. Nevin grew up in Elizabethtown and attended Elizabethtown Area Schools, participating in the Special Education Program and received a Certificate of Completion in 1967. He was a member of the Elizabethtown Church of the Brethren during his youth and in the later stage of his life. Nevin and Anna spent most of their adult lives in the Lititz area. He held various jobs as a nurse's aide and as a member of the custodial staffs of several Lititz firms. During the last part of his life, Nevin resided at the Elizabethtown Personal Care Home on Heisey Avenue. He was friendly and outgoing and always gave his best to whatever task or challenge he was allotted.

Nevin is survived by his sister: Barbara Christensen; her daughter: Mary Christensen and her son Alex, all of Morgantown, WV. His nephew: Stephen Knecht, his wife Michele Coyne and their son: Jasper, all of Newark, DE. Also, members of the Musser, Zuck and Fox families.

Nevin's family would like to thank his church family, various personal caregivers and the hospice staff for all of their contributions to Nevin's well-being.

The Memorial Service will be held at Mountville Church of the Brethren, 60 Clay Street, Mountville, on Saturday, February 1, 2025 at 3:00 P.M. with Pastor Angela Finet, officiating. Visitation will be from 2:00 P.M. to 3:00 P.M. Interment will be in the adjoining church cemetery. Arrangements by the Workman Funeral Homes, Inc., Mountville/Columbia. To send an online condolence, visit the condolence page.

Raymond Woodward

Raymond Woodward, 83, of Mountville, passed away on Friday, January 24, 2025. He was the husband of Susan E. Cousar Woodward with whom he celebrated their 22nd wedding anniversary on October 3, 2024 and the late Mary Woodward, who passed away in 2001. He was born in Horwich, England, son of the late William Woodward. Ray was an electrician at Armstrong World Industries for 30 years before his retirement in 2004. Ray moved to the United States in 1967 and was extremely involved with model railroads and loved everything about trains. He attended New Life Home Church, Lancaster and enjoyed building and collecting model cars. He was an avid reader which included history and biographies. Ray called everyone “Love”.

Surviving in addition to his wife, two stepsons: Ryan (Sarah) McGovern, Oklahoma City, OK and Dr. Jonathan (Hannah) McGovern, Pittsburgh. Four step-grandchildren: Cassidy, Elle, Fin and Fiona McGovern. Sisters: Doreen Prosser, London, England and Elizabeth (David) of Canada. Brother: Harry (Celia) Woodward, Horwich, England. He was preceded in death by three daughters: Andrea Karen Woodward, Bernice Anne Woodward and Bernadette Woodward. One son: Phillip Mark Woodward. Two brothers: William and Leslie Woodward.

The Service will be held at a later date, with interment in Mountville Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made in his memory to: Tunnel 2 Towers Foundation, 2361 Hylan Blvd, Staten Island, NY 10306. Arrangements by the Workman Funeral Homes, Inc., Mountville/Columbia. To send an online condolence, visit the condolence page.

Dale E. Irwin, Sr.

Dale E. Irwin, Sr., 89, of Lancaster, passed away on Friday, January 24, 2025. He was the husband of the late Mae Sellers Irwin who passed away in 2005. He was born in Lancaster, son of the late David and Dora McFalls. Dale was a plumber/pipe fitter for Local 520 Harrisburg for more than 50 years. He was a Veteran of the US Marine Corps and was also a Lifetime Honorary PA Fish and Boat Commission Deputy Water Ways Conservation Officer, a lifetime member of Mountville Fire Company and West Hempfield Fire and Rescue. Dale was an avid hunter and fisherman and enjoyed spending time at the family cabin.

Dale is survived by his children: Mae, Dale, Dana and Bonnie (Eddie). Five grandchildren: Amber (Brian), Roger, Brian (Melissa), Nina (Tony) and Ashley. Eight great-grandchildren: Robbie, MacKenzie, Mason, Collin, Bryson, Autumn, Bethany and Elijah. Siblings: Doreen, Duane and Dawn. He was preceded in death by brothers: David, Delmar, Donald and Daniel.

The Funeral Service will be held at the Workman Funeral Homes, Inc., 114 West Main Street, Mountville on Wednesday, January 29, 2025 at 11:00 A.M. Friends may call from 10:00 A.M. to 11:00 A.M. Interment in Laurel Hill Memorial Gardens with Full Military Honors. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to: Compassus Hospice, Mountville Fire Company or West Hempfield Fire and Rescue. To send an online condolence, visit the condolence page.

Paul A. Blumenshine

Paul A. Blumenshine, 68, of Columbia, passed away on Tuesday, January 21, 2025 at Evergreen Estates Retirement Community. Paul was born in Columbia, son of the late Wilbur and Dolores Bongart Blumenshine. He was an inside customer service representative for Harold E. Smith Company and RJW Industrial Group before his retirement in August of 2021. Paul was a graduate of Columbia High School, Class of 1974. He was an avid bowler who loved baseball and had a great appreciation of the game. Paul played baseball and was very good at it. He was an original member of the Lancaster-Manheim APBA League, formed in the early 1980's, which was a fantasy baseball league and enjoyed the friendship of the members. He was a very knowledgeable game player. Paul loved the Philadelphia Phillies, having been a season ticket holder. He attended the last game played at Veteran's Stadium and attended the first game played at Citizen's Bank Park, in April of 2004. He also loved the Indianapolis Colts. Paul also enjoyed spending quality time with his many friends.

He is survived by his brother-in-law: Earl H. Kauffman. Three nephews, cousins, grand-nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by one sister: Susan M. Kauffman.

The Family would like to extend a thank you to the staff of Evergreen Estates and Grane Hospice for the care that was given to Paul.

The Graveside Service and Burial will be held at Mountville Cemetery on Saturday, February 1, 2025 at 11:00 A.M. Please omit flowers. Memorial contributions may be made in his memory to: Grane Hospice, 1010 Plymouth Road, Suite D., York, PA 17402. Arrangements by the Workman Funeral Homes, Inc., Columbia/Mountville. To send an online condolence, visit the condolence page.

Elmer R. Fox

Elmer R. Fox, 90, of Columbia, passed away on Tuesday, January 21, 2025 at Susquehanna Rehabilitation Health Care Center. He was the husband of the late Earla Fox, who passed away on April 7, 2013. Elmer was born in Harrisburg, son of the late Elmer W. and Priscilla Gruber Fox. He was a custodian for the Hempfield School District and also worked at BJ's Wholesale Club, before his retirement. Elmer was a Veteran of the US Navy, serving during the Korean Conflict and he attended Concordia Evangelical Lutheran Church.

He is survived by one daughter: Patricia A. (Richard, Jr.) Souders. One son: Stacey E. (Darlinda) Fox. Numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

The Graveside Service and Burial will be held at Concordia Lutheran Cemetery on Thursday, January 30, 2025 at 2:00 P.M. with Full Military Honors. Arrangements by the Workman Funeral Homes, Inc., Columbia/Mountville. To send an online condolence, visit the condolence page.

Patricia A. Gearhart

Patricia A. Gearhart, 75, of Mountville, passed away on Tuesday, January 21, 2025, at home surrounded by her loving family. She was the wife of William A. Gearhart with whom she celebrated 57 years of marriage on August 27, 2024. She was born in Chambersburg, daughter of the late Raymond A. and Margaret A. Stewart Fahnestock. Patricia was a member of Central Manor Church and was an office administrator for Lancaster Orthopedic Group before her retirement. She attended music jams and loved to sing with her husband who accompanied her on acoustic guitar. Patricia enjoyed her family.

Surviving in addition to her husband, three sons: Troy E. (Victoria M.) Gearhart, Meyersdale; Bradley A. (Connie) Gearhart, Sarasota, FL and Ryan L. Gearhart, Lancaster. One daughter: Lori A. (Gary A.) Werner, Perry Hollow, MD. Six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. One brother: Carl E. (Lily) Fahnestock, Chambersburg and one sister: Debra J. (William R.) Brookens, Chambersburg.

The Memorial Service will be held at Central Manor Church, 387 Penn Street, Washington Boro on Friday, January 31, 2025, at 11:00 A.M. with Pastor Scott Davis, officiating. Visitation will be from 10:00 A.M. to 11:00 A.M. Private Interment in Habecker Mennonite Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in her memory to: Hospice and Community Care, PO Box 4125, Lancaster, PA 17604-4125. Arrangements by the Workman Funeral Homes, Inc., Mountville/Columbia. To send an online condolence, visit the condolence page.

Ronald L. Hamaker

Ronald L. Hamaker, 69, of Lancaster, passed away on Tuesday, December 10, 2024 at Lancaster General Hospital. He was born in Columbia, son/only child of the late James A. and Grace E. Derr Hamaker. Ron was a Lancaster County Deputy Sheriff for 10 years before his retirement. He attended St. John's Evangelical Lutheran Church, Columbia, and over the years served as a volunteer firefighter with several Lancaster County fire departments. 

Ron enjoyed going to car shows to see the "muscle cars" and being outdoors. He was extremely proud of his award winning 1967 Chevrolet Chevelle 396SS that he restored with all original parts and paint, and was happy to chat with other car enthusiasts that he met at shows. He also loved watching and photographing wildlife - particularly the birds, squirrels, rabbits, and sometimes deer who visited the feeders in his backyard. However, his most favorite four-legged friend was his Akita dog named Tasha, who preceded him in passing. She was truly his best friend, and his wish was for her ashes to rest with him in Silver Spring Cemetery.

Ron is survived by one daughter: Michelle L. (Ted) Miller, Lancaster and two grandsons. He will be missed by other family and many friends, especially by long time friends whom he considered family: Mark and Cherry Hale, their children and grandchildren.

A Celebration of Life service will be held in the Community Room at the GCM Built/Rhino Excavating office, 1150 West Main Street, Mount Joy on Saturday, February 1, 2025 at 1:00 P.M.  Please omit flowers. Memorial contributions may be made in his memory to: the Wolf Sanctuary of PA, 465 Speedwell Forge Road, Lititz, PA 17543. Arrangements by the Workman Funeral Homes, Inc., Mountville/Columbia. To send an online condolence, visit the condolence page.