Dr. Kenneth R. Armacost, 63, of Littlestown, died Thursday, Oct 28, at Wellspan Gettysburg Hospital. He was the husband of Laura A. (Bentzel) Armacost of Littlestown.

Born August 8, 1958 in Gettysburg, Ken was the son of Virginia “Ginger” (Koontz) Armacost of Littlestown and the late Thomas A. Armacost. He was a 1976 Littlestown High School graduate, obtained his Bachelor’s Degree from IUP and his doctorate from Immaculata University.

Armacost was a principal at New Oxford Intermediate School for 16 years until he retired in June.

During the meeting where the school board accepted his resignation, Dr. Christopher Rudisill, superintendent of the Conewago Valley School District, spoke highly of his work.

“It’s hard to believe that he’s been principal for 16 years,” Rudisill said. “He leaves a tremendous legacy as a building principal, educator, mentor and most importantly, a person. Most people might not know that he didn’t start his career off in education. He was a deputy sheriff in Fairfax, VA. From there, he transitioned to crisis intervention specialist in Hanover. Finally, he wised up in 1988 and said, ‘I’m going to public schools and I’m going to get a job.’ He became a guidance counselor in Biglerville High School. From there, he left Biglerville and went to Central York as a guidance counselor for several years and finally made the best decision of his life in 1994 and came to Conewago Valley.”

“He was a guidance counselor at New Oxford Middle School until 2004 and then he transitioned to assistant principal,” Rudisill said. “And then, during the 2005-06 school year, took the reins and never looked back as principal at CVIS.”

Rudisill said that Armacost has been recognized several times by accomplishments, including honors from outside organizations, adding that his dedication was clear even without the awards.

“There is nothing that he would not do for those kids, and it shows,” Rudisill said.

“The best decision I ever made was coming here,” Armacost said.

Surviving in addition to his wife and mother are his children, Kira A. Armacost and her partner Brian of Doylestown and Kameron A. Armacost and his fiance’ Becky of New Oxford; his four grandchildren, Thomas and Bryn Campbell and Matthew and Kaylee Armacost; his brother, Doug A. Armacost and Tami of McSherrystown. Ken was a Varsity Head Volleyball Coach for Conewago Valley Senior High School.

He enjoyed playing golf and spending time with his family.

John Alfred Murphy, 87 of Gettysburg, PA died Thursday, May 20, 2021 at his home in Gettysburg, PA.   

Born June 10, 1933 in Rochester, NY, the son of the late Ralph F. Murphy Sr. and Annabelle (Mullen) Murphy. He was married to Joan Mans Murphy of Rochester, NY for 63 years.

John was a 1951 graduate of Brighton High School in Rochester. He received his B.S. in Business from the University of Notre Dame in 1955 and an M.S. in Russian from Georgetown University in 1972.

John Murphy is a retired U.S. Navy Commander (1957 to 1977). He was a member of the Naval Security Group and served aboard destroyers and aircraft carriers in the Atlantic, Pacific and Mediterranean. He was Operations Officer at a Black Sea Warning Site in Istanbul, Turkey and a staff officer at the Atlantic Command Headquarters, Norfolk, VA. during the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis. He served two tours in the Vietnam Combat Zone – 1964 (USS Jamestown) and 1968 (USS Constellation & Kitty Hawk).  His military awards include the Vietnam Medal of Honor First Class; Vietnam Service with 6 Oak Clusters; Navy Commendation medals for the Cuban Missile Crisis and Project Bullseye. He retired from the Navy as a Commander in 1978.

From 1980 to 1990 John was an executive at Booz Allen Hamilton Inc. and the Executive Director of its Russian Studies Center in Bethesda,Md.

Mr. Murphy relocated to Gettysburg in 1990 to teach Russian at Gettysburg College. He later served on the Gettysburg Borough Council (1991- 2007); was Chairman of the USS Gettysburg Commissioning Committee; 1st Chairman of the Gettysburg National Military Park, Federal Advisory Commission; Vice Chairman of Main Street Gettysburg; President, of the Gettysburg Rotary Club (1999-2000); Trustee of the Dwight D. Eisenhower Society and was the Founding President of the Notre Dame Club of Gettysburg.

This obituary was originally published here.

Wilbur H. Waybright, 96 of Gettysburg, PA passed away at The Lorian in Taneytown, MD on Thursday, May 20, 2021. Born September 16, 1924 in Gettysburg, he was the son of the late Howard D. & Bertha M. (Reifsnider) Waybright. Wilbur is survived by his wife of 75 years, Mary Jane (Crabill) Waybright. He was a 1942 graduate of Gettysburg High School and farmed in Mt. Joy Township for over 40 years, retiring in 1988. Wilbur was a member of Mt. Joy Lutheran Church where he was past president of church council and former treasurer of the church’s Sunday School. He was past president of Gettysburg Young Farmers and received the Outstanding Young Farmer Award in 1967. Wilbur was a member of the Adams County Poultry Association, Pennsylvania Farm Bureau, Harney Fire Co., and a leader of the 4-H Tractor Club. He served as a Director of the Adams Electric Cooperative for 33 years, including nine years as treasurer, a delegate to the Pennsylvania Council of Cooperatives, leadership in finances, chaired the Board’s Budget and Audit Committee and served on the Building and Long Range Planning Committee. Wilbur completed director management courses and earned his Board Leadership Certificate in 1996 and became credentialed Cooperative Director of the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association in 2000. He enjoyed working on and repairing older models of Club Cadet Tractors and was a collector of farm machinery and toy tractors. In addition to his wife, he is survived by a son, James W. Waybright (Shirley) of Gettysburg, a daughter, Jane L. Bailey (John) of Spring Grove, PA, four grandchildren, Bradley Waybright (Kim), Chris Waybright (Jenna), Courtney Bailey and Josh Bailey (Ashley), seven great grandchildren, Kacey, Brayden, Findley, Burke, Carter, Jace and Brooklyn, a sister, Joyce L. Crouse of Gettysburg and numerous nieces and nephews. Wilbur was predeceased by a grandson, Andrew Waybright and a brother, Paul Waybright. The family will receive friends from 1:30-3:00 PM on Tuesday, May 25, 2021 at the Mt. Joy Lutheran Church, 2615 Taneytown Rd. Gettysburg, PA, facial coverings will be required inside the church. A graveside service and interment will follow in the Mt. Joy Lutheran Cemetery at 3:00 PM with Rev. Peter Naschke, officiating. The family suggests memorials to Mt. Joy Lutheran Church, 2615 Taneytown Rd. Gettysburg, PA, or the Harney Fire Co., 5130 Harney Road, Taneytown, MD 21787. Online tributes and condolences can be made at monahanfuneralhome.com.

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Grady McCraw, 79, of Gettysburg, PA, entered God’s eternal care, Sunday, May 16, 2021, at Legend of Lititz Senior Living, Lititz, PA.

Born December 4, 1941 in Edison, TN, he was the son of the late James W. and Daisy (Manis) McCraw.  Grady was the loving husband of the late Lois (Lane) McCraw who died November 17, 2000.

Grady retired from Maryland Cup in 2001 with thirty years of service.  He was a member of the Littlestown and Gettysburg Eagles, and the Westminster Moose Lodge. 

Grady enjoyed riding motorcycles and attending Blue Grass Festivals

Grady is survived by three sons, Bradley McCraw of Richmond, VA, Scott McCraw and Stanley McCraw both of Hanover, PA, 5 grandchildren, 1 great grandchild, and one sister,  Lottie McCraw of Richmond, VA.  He was preceded in death by 7 siblings. 

A viewing and time to share memories with the family will be held from 6:00-8:00 PM, Wednesday, May 19, 2021 at the Kenworthy Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc., 66 East Hanover Street, Gettysburg (Bonneauville), PA.  A graveside service will be held 10:00 AM, Thursday, May 20, 2021 at Evergreen Memorial Gardens, 2800 Old Westminster Pike, Finksburg, MD.

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Kenneth G. Bottorf, 77, Knoxlyn Road, Gettysburg, PA passed away suddenly at his home on Saturday, May 15, 2021.

He was born August 10, 1943 in Lock Haven, PA the son of the late Kenneth M. and Frances Husselton Bottorf. Ken is survived by his wife Mary Eckert Bottorf. They would have celebrated their 53rd wedding anniversary July 4th.

Ken was a graduate of Immaculate Conception High School in Lock Haven, PA and later Lock Haven University. He had a long career as a Driver’s Ed teacher and wrestling coach that began at Iroquois High School in Erie, PA. He then accepted a position at Bellefonte High School in Bellefonte, PA. But for most of his 36 year career he taught at Bermudian Springs High School where he began the 1st wrestling program in 1970. Following his retirement from Public Education, he owned and operated Bottorf Driving School for 10 years. He was a member of PSEA, former member of the Gettysburg Elks Club and the NRA. He was also a certified SCUBA diver who enjoyed travel to the Caribbean. He and his wife also owned and operated Bottorf Home Sales in the area for 10 years. He will be missed by his cat, Deja Blu, his constant companion during his illness.

A Memorial Mass will be celebrated at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Emmitsburg, MD on Thursday, May 20, 2021 at 10:00 AM, the celebrant will be his dear friend Fr. Charles Kreig. Interment will be in the church cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorials can be made to the Adams County SPCA, 11 Goldenville Road, Gettysburg, PA 17325 or St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, PO Box 376, Emmitsburg, MD 21727.

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Carl R. Bruno, 96, of New Oxford, PA, passed away May 4th, 2021, at his home in New Oxford, PA. Born and raised in Brockway, PA, he was the son of Tony and Elizabeth Bruno.  He is survived by two daughters, Jenni (Vince) Lobaugh, Aspers, PA and Tina (Dave Maxwell) Bruno, Nashua, NH; three sons, Bruce (Patrina) Bruno, Midlothian, VA, Duane (Pam) Bruno, Arvada, CO, Marc (Karen) Bruno, Rockville, MD; 13 grandchildren, Jason (Liesha) Bruno, Alicia (Rachel) Bruno, Jolene (Brian) Schildt, Marie Lobaugh, Emily Lobaugh, Eric Maxwell, Keith (Amy) Maxwell, Erin (Scott Convery) Maxwell, Jacinda Bruno, Kara (Seamus) Doone, Kevin Bruno, Shaun Bruno, Sydney Bruno and 14 great-grandchildren, BJ and Brandi Schildt, Samantha and Andrew Convery, Emma, Ava and Tyler Maxwell, Jameson and Alanna Maxwell, Kennedy and Wyatt Doone, Luca Bruno and Cohen Riland and Casen Bruno; sister, Louise Castiglione and brother, Andrew Bruno. He is predeceased by his wife of 65 years Elvira Bruno and two sons, Jeff and Kevin Bruno, and brother, Louis Bruno.

Carl served his country with honor and distinction in the military. He was drafted in World War II as a Private in the U.S. Army and retired after 31 years with the rank of full Colonel.  He graduated from Infantry Officer Candidate School at the age of 19 and was inducted into the United States Army Officer Candidate School Hall of Fame in 1996.  He served 18 months in Italy during World War II.

Carl was an avid sports enthusiast and played basketball, football and baseball in high school and college as well as semi-pro baseball. He attended Penn State where he earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Education and Master’s Degree in Guidance and Administration. While at Penn State, he lettered in basketball, baseball and football, where he played quarterback for the 1946 undefeated Penn State freshman team. Injuries ended his football career. In 1951, After graduating from Penn State, Carl remained true to the “Blue and White” and, as a season ticket holder, often attended football games at Beaver Stadium to cheer on his mighty Nittany Lions!

After marrying Elvira in 1951, he began his long and distinguished career in public education. He held many positions over the 40 years he served in public education including Math Teacher, Principal, Assistant Superintendent and Superintendent. The pinnacle of his career was serving as Superintendent of Penn Trafford School District for the last 15 years of his remarkable career. His philosophy was always to put the students first when making any decision, especially the tough ones. He received the Man of the Year Award from Penn Township, Educator of the Year Award in Westmoreland County, and the Exceptional Service Award from Juniata Valley School District. He also made time to officiate and coach high school basketball, football and baseball, which he truly enjoyed.  

Carl strongly believed in giving back to his community and served as a volunteer of the Lions Club, American Legion and VFW.  He also served as a volunteer tax preparer and instructor for the AARP Tax-Aide Program for the elderly and underprivileged. AARP presented him with its Jan Cooper Award for his 20 years of dedicated service to those most in need of tax preparation services. The Bushy Run Lions established the Carl Bruno Scholarship Program in recognition of his many contributions and dedicated 50 years of service to the Lions Club. The Lions Club International Foundation presented him with the distinguished Melvin Jones Fellow Award for dedicated humanitarian services. He was very active and devoted to the Catholic Church, which included being a life-long member of the Knights of Columbus as well as an usher, reader and server at Mass.

Carl also enjoyed hunting, gardening, and most importantly spending time with his family.

Carl will be deeply missed by his family and friends.

This obituary was originally published here.

Clarence L. “Stoney” Stonesifer, Sr., 93, Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, passed away Friday, April 30, 2021 at Dove House in Westminster, Maryland.

Stoney was born November 29, 1927 in Oella, Maryland, the son of the late Clarence Walter and Sarah Ridgely Stonesifer. He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Helen Goslin Stonesifer.

Stoney grew up in Ellicott City, Maryland, and was drafted into the United States Army near the end of World War II. He was discharged and then joined the Army National Guard, where he was trained as a cook. He re-enlisted into active duty and retired after serving 22 years. During his time in the Army, Stoney did tours in Korea, Japan, and Germany, as well as various posts in the United States, earning several awards and commendations. After his discharge, he embarked on a career in the United States Postal Service, where he delivered mail in the Columbia, Maryland area, and was recognized for his 20 years of faithful service. In retirement he enjoyed spending time with his family, golfing, fishing, gardening, and watching old movies.

In addition to his wife, Stoney is survived by four children: Clarence L. Stonesifer, Jr. and his wife, Mary Frances, of Manchester, Maryland; Susan M. Flanagan and her husband, Randy, of Catonsville, Maryland; Sharon A. Jones and her husband, David, of Edinburg, Virginia; Jennifer L. Ward and her husband, Russ, of Virginia Beach, Virginia; 11 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren and a brother, Herbert L. Stonesifer, and his wife, Mary, of Winfield, MD. He was predeceased by 2 sisters, 3 brothers, and by his first wife, Marie, and an infant child.

The family will receive friends at Monahan Funeral Home in Gettysburg on Saturday, May 8, 2021 from noon until 2:00 PM, when Rev. Dr. Herbert Sprouse will have prayers followed by military honors. Private entombment will be at Prince of Peace Episcopal Church. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Prince of Peace Episcopal Church, PO Box 3005, Gettysburg, PA 17325, or Carroll Hospice/Dove House, 292 Stoner Avenue, Westminster, MD 21157. Online obituary and condolences are available at monahanfuneralhome.com

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Ethan Randall Slaybaugh, age 17 of Aspers, passed away Saturday, May 8, 2021 at Hershey Medical Center. He was born Monday, December 29, 2003 in Hanover, the son of Matthew E. and Casey Slaybaugh of Aspers.

Ethan attended Biglerville High School and was a member of the Class of 2022. He was a member of the BHS Varsity Wrestling Team. He had an infectious smile with a very big heart. He will also be remembered for locks of golden hair, the man bun, and his daredevil attitude doing wheelies on his dirt bikes, as well as his love for the fox body mustang. Ethan was enlisting in the United States Marine Corp. following graduation from high school.

He is survived by his sister, Paige M. Slaybaugh, his brother, Ayden M. Slaybaugh and paternal grandparents Randall and Tammy Slaybaugh, all of Aspers, Patricia and Alan Trimmer of New Oxford, maternal grandparents Doug and Carol Bower and Aunt Toni and husband Chris Black, all of Gettysburg, Uncle Jared Slaybaugh of Fairfield, Aunt Kayla and husband John Black of Biglerville, Uncle Dustin Bower of Gettysburg, Aunt Haley Kramer and Uncle Landon Kramer, of Aspers, Uncle Jason and wife Mayra Trimmer of New Oxford, Aunt Nicole and husband Matt Drobenak of Dover, cousins, Zane Black, Trek Weigle, Mckenzie Weigle, Payton Black, Bayleigh Black, David Bower, Ryan Bower, Preston Kelch, Asher Kelch, Alex Trimmer, Logan Trimmer, Caleb Trimmer, Joanna Drobenak, Lucas Drobenak and many friends that are considered family. He is also survived by his biological mother, Kayla L. Butler and her mother. Cindy Kump of Littlestown.

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Kerry Colleen Sheahan, 57 of Gettysburg, PA passed away on Sunday, May 09, 2021 at Johns Hopkins Hospital after a long illness. Born May 16, 1963 in Washington, DC, she was the daughter of H. Patricia (Gladmon) Sheahan of Gettysburg and the late William F. Sheahan, who died in 2002. Kerry was a member of St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Gettysburg. She was a 1987 graduate of Mount St. Mary’s University. Kerry had been employed by the FBI for a number of years before working in the Adams County Domestic Relations Office and was a case manager for the former Survivors Inc. She was an avid reader, enjoyed solving puzzles and spending quality time with her nieces and nephew. In addition to her mother, Kerry is survived by her sister, Deborah L. Davison(Robert) of Kensington, MD, two brothers, Brian M. Sheahan(Carol) of Lutherville, MD and Dr. Timothy P. Sheahan(Jessica) of McKnightstown, PA, a nephew, Bennett Sheahan and four nieces, Patricia O’Daniel, Kirsten Sheahan, Margaret Sheahan and Emily Sheahan. A private Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Gettysburg with Fr. Daniel Mitzel, Celebrant. Interment will follow the Mass in St. Francis Cemetery. The family suggests memorials to: Adams County Special Olympics, 37 Bittern Drive, Gettysburg, PA 17325. Online tributes and condolences can be made at monahanfuneralhome.com.

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Stevens Alvarez, 21, of Aspers, PA, passed unexpectedly into the Lord’s eternal grace on April 28, 2021. Stevens, known as “Gordo” to those who loved him, was a gentle soul since he was born on November 1, 1999. He was a 2018 graduate of Biglerville High School and employed at Rice Fruit Company in Gardners. Those that knew him were blessed to be recipients of his warm hugs and kisses. He was the affectionate one out of the family. Anytime you would see Gordo, you would always see a smile on his face. He enjoyed spending time with family, watching and playing soccer, or playing any sport with his cousins. Gordo, your wings were ready but we were not. We will always cherish the time we spent with you, even if it was cut too short. Stevens is survived by his parents, Gilberto and Juana Alvarez, his siblings Alejandro and Candy Alvarez and too many aunts, uncles, and cousins to count. Steven, we love you more than you will ever know and we will miss you every single day.

Funeral Mass will be held 11:00 AM, Monday, May 3, 2021 at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, 25 West High St., Gettysburg, PA. with burial to follow at St. Francis Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 6-8 PM Sunday evening, May 2, 2021 at the Monahan Funeral Home, 125 Carlisle St. Gettysburg, PA, as well as one hour before Mass Monday morning at the church. Online condolences may be made at monahanfuneralhome.com.

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Charles “Charlie” Robert Kreitz, Sr. of Gettysburg, died April 23, 2021, at SpiriTrust Lutheran Village in Gettysburg, PA.

Born December 22, 1931, in Waynesboro, Pa., he was the son of the late Charles T. and Margaret A. (Hoffman) Kreitz. He was the husband of the late Virginia (Wagerman) Krietz who died August 15, 2005.

Mr. Kreitz was a member of Trinity United Church of Christ in Gettysburg. He was well-known for his bowling alley mechanical skills and had worked many years as the Sexton for the Gettysburg Presbyterian Church until his retirement. During his retirement, Charlie enjoyed helping out around Krietz Auto in Frederick, MD. Charlie never met a stranger.

Charlie is survived by his six children; Robert L. Krietz of Waynesboro; Charles R. Krietz, Jr. and his wife Kim, of Keymar, MD; Terry E. Krietz, and his wife Ruth, of Gettysburg; Daniel W. Krietz of Gardners; Pamela A. Poland and her husband Jerry of Hanover; and Eva M. Shaffer and her husband Brian of Gettysburg. He is also survived by twelve grandchildren; April Krietz Koyne, Angie Stone; Charles Krietz, Cory Krietz, Stacey Krietz Rushwald, Bradley Adam Krietz, Caydee Reck, Brandon Krietz, Sarah Krietz, Megan Poland Mullooly, Tanner Shaffer and Jordan Shaffer Valli; and five great-grandchildren.

In addition to his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by his sister, Shirley Brown, brother, Richard “Dick” Kreitz, and daughter-in-law, Mary E. Krietz.

Funeral services will be held Wednesday, April 28, 2021, at 11a.m. from Monahan Funeral Home, Gettysburg with Rev. Dr. Frederick Young officiating. Burial will be at Emmitsburg Memorial Cemetery, Emmitsburg, MD. The family will receive friends Tuesday, evening, April 27th, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Monahan Funeral Home, 125 Carlisle St., Gettysburg, Pa., as well as one hour before services. Due to COVID-19, mask wearing is requested.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in memory of Charles R. Kreitz, Sr. may be made to Trinity United Church, 60 E. High Street, Gettysburg, PA 17325 or the Adams County Office for Aging, Inc., 318 W. Middle Street, Gettysburg, PA 17325.

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Miguel A. Perez, Sr., 77, Gettysburg, PA passed away at his home on Wednesday, April 14, 2021 surrounded by his family.

He was born July 22, 1943 in Vega Alta, Puerto Rico the son of the late Annisetto and Rita Maysonet Perez.

Miguel was employed at Adams County Nursery for 52 years. He enjoyed hunting and fishing and tending to his garden. For a number of years he played in the Adams County Shuffleboard League. Miguel also coached Upper Adams Little League teams. He was also a fun loving person who was the life of the party. Miguel was the Pittsburgh Pirates biggest fan.

He is survived by a son, Miguel A. Perez, Jr. of Gettysburg, PA, a daughter, Angela Strait and her husband Christopher of Gettysburg, PA, a step-daughter, Rita Sanchez and her husband Amador of York Springs, PA, three grandchildren; Maria McCauslin and her husband Robert, Bailey Strait, Logan Strait and a brother, Julian Perez of Puerto Rico.

A Celebration of Miguel’s life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers memorials can be made to Pittsburgh Pirates Children’s Charities, c/o Pirates Charities, 115 Federal Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15212 or piratescharities.com. Online obituary and condolences available at monahanfuneralhome.com.

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Mary “Peach” N. Bowling, 88, of Gettysburg, PA died Wednesday afternoon, April 14, 2021 at her home surrounded by her loving family.

Born October 31, 1932 in Fairfield, PA she was the daughter of the late Ralph “Jack” and Hazel (Richardson) Musselman. She was the wife of the late C. Allen Bowling who died May 1, 1996.

Mrs. Bowling attended Fairfield Schools and Washington Township High School. She worked for a number of years at Gettysburg Shoe Factory and retired from Gettysburg Transformer in 1994 after working there 22 years. She was a member of the Fairfield AMVETS Auxiliary and National AARP.

Peach is survived by her two children, Jeffrey A. Bowling, Vivian M. Wright, both of Fairfield, PA three grandchildren, Jeremy Bowling, Jessica Bowling, Stephani Kunce, and six great grandchildren, Adrianna, Elijah, Silas, Idonnely, Aubrey, Andres, and a number of nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by four brothers, John Musselman, James Musselman, Ralph Musselman, Clyde Musselman, and three sisters, Gladys Musselman, Darlene Rosensteel, and Virginia Comegys.

Funeral services will be held 11:00 AM, Monday, April 19, 2021 at the Monahan Funeral Home, 27 E. Main St., Fairfield, PA. Burial will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Fairfield. The family will receive friends from 9:00 AM until the time of the service Monday at the funeral home. Online condolences may be made at monahanfuneralhome.com.

This obituary was originally published here.

Richard “Dick” L. Kreitz, 84, of Fairfield, PA died Sunday, April 4, 2021 at his home.

Born June 12, 1936 in Highland, PA he was the son of the late Charles T. and Margaret A. (Hoffman) Kreitz. He was the husband of the late Shirley A. (Fleming) Kreitz who died December 25, 2016.

Mr. Kreitz was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Fairfield, PA. He worked as a shipper at Flow Serve and also was employed by Blue Ridge Pipe and Nipple for 32 years.

Dick is survived by his two sons, Robert L. Kreitz and his wife Colleen, of Fairfield, PA, Ricky L. Kreitz and his wife Yvette, of Orrtanna, PA, four grandchildren, Brandi Keller, Josh Kreitz, Jessica Dean, Beth Smallwood, eight great grandchildren, Wyatt, Grace, Madison, Sydney, Norah, Emmit, Irie, Easton, and one brother, Charles Kreitz, Jr., of Gettysburg, PA. He was preceded in death by his sister, Shirley Brown.

Funeral services, being handled by the Monahan Funeral Home, will be private and at the convenience of the family. Online condolences may be made at monahanfuneralhome.com.

This obituary was originally published here.

Victor E. Gray, 77, of Gettysburg, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on Thursday, March 25, 2021 at home. He was the loving husband of Sandra L. Gray; together they shared 41 wonderful years together.  

Born Tuesday, August 17, 1943 in Manhattan, NY, he was a son of the late Dr. Arthur A. and Ida Gray.  

Victor was born and raised in the Bronx until he graduated from aviation high school where his passion for flying was ignited. Upon graduation he promptly joined the United States Air Force to fulfill his dream of learning to fly. From there he attended flight school in Reno Nevada where he obtained his commercial pilots license in 1967. His journey “landed” him a position at the oldest helicopter company in the United States (Ag-Rotors Inc.) There he instructed and supervised pilots and mentored generations to follow. He was a major contributor to the control of forest fire suppression efforts on the East and West Coasts. He was an accomplished International pilot flying in South America as well as in the United States. In 2000 Victor led a team of agricultural pilots to be awarded the industry wide “Igor I. Sikorsky Award” for humanitarian service while spraying for the West Nile Virus outbreak in New York City. During that time, he attended daily briefings in the Twin Towers with, the then, Mayor, Rudolph Giuliani. He was instrumental in spraying the Susquehanna River for black fly control since its inception. He started his career giving tours over the battlefields of Gettysburg finished out his lifetime career as Director of Operations. 

In 1978 he met and later married his beloved wife Sandra Gray. They resided in Gettysburg where they raised three children who admire and love him deeply. In retirement you would often find Vic wearing Hawaiian shirts or J.E.T.S. jerseys He enjoyed spending his time travelling with Sandy, visiting his family in New York, gardening, and barbecuing. He loved sports especially football and would proudly proclaim to be the New York J.E.T.S. biggest fan. He was an amazing man who lived an amazing life and was loved by all who knew him. 

In addition to his wife, Victor is survived by three children, Christian Hays of Gettysburg, Gretchen Hays of Gettysburg, Grayson Hays of Quakertown; a sister, Pamila Gray of New York, NY; two nieces, Nichole Gray, Heather Gray; a cousin Glen Lawson; six grandchildren; six great grandchildren and many loving extended family members and cherished friends. 

This obituary was originally published here.

This, too, shall pass. That’s the sentiment the ever-optimistic “Mister Ed” Edwin Lee Gotwalt, 84, would pass on to anyone grieving his loss on Friday, February 26, 2021, of natural causes. The date also marks his 54th wedding anniversary to his treasured wife, Patricia Gotwalt, and the 46th anniversary of the founding of his famed attraction, Mister Ed’s Elephant Museum & Candy Emporium in Orrtanna. He was born on May 20, 1936, in a small home on Jackson Street in York, PA, to Edwin E. Gotwalt and Marie Strausbaugh.

In addition to his wife, Gotwalt is survived by a son J. Michael Taylor and granddaughter and grandson-in-law Nicole and Isaac Bucher, all of Orrtanna. His pride and joy is his great-grandson, Larkin Lee Bucher. He was predeceased by his daughter Tammy Cullison, a brother Danny Gotwalt, and many pets throughout the years, most especially Sam and Mittens. Gotwalt owned and operated Mister Ed’s Elephant Museum & Candy Emporium from 1975 until his retirement in 2014. He and his wife sold the business to their grandchildren and delighted in watching its continued success. Though the business has evolved through the years, his enduring lessons of customer service, reinvention and perseverance continue to guide it.

But Gotwalt wasn’t one for retirement and sitting in the passenger seat. He enthusiastically dove into a second career that fulfilled his lifelong passion of public speaking and service. He imparted his hard-learned lessons as an entrepreneur to other business leaders through his “Ten Commandments of Good Business,” and after a car accident that nearly cost him his life in 2017, began speaking to community and spiritual groups on “Angels, Miracles, and Other Stuff.” He also lent his knowledge by serving on boards of various organizations, from Destination Gettysburg to Totem Pole Playhouse to the Lincoln Highway Heritage Corridor.

He was also a long-time member and former president of the Cashtown Lions Club and Salisbury Jaycees.

Mister Ed is a self-made businessman who started work at just 6 years old selling outdated calendars door-to-door in York city to help his single mother put food on the table. As a child, he worked on farms, sold newspapers, and took care of his mother, not receiving a formal education past the eighth grade. As a teenager, he took a job with Giant Food Stores in Washington, D.C., then a small grocery chain, where he worked up the ranks to become a store manager. He left the grocery business briefly to operate businesses in Salisbury, MD. There he opened The Hut, a much-loved pizza and sub take-out shop, and the Casa Del Ray, a restaurant and motel, before returning to Giant.

Once again following his entrepreneurial spirit, Gotwalt moved back to his home state of Pennsylvania and opened Mister Ed’s: The Area’s Most Unusual General Store, just down the road from the current store. The original Mister Ed’s enjoyed much success as a community gathering place where locals would come for food and fellowship at the snack bar and to see curiosities, like a small elephant collection.

Mister Ed became quite a local character, staying up 76 hours to celebrate the nation’s bicentennial and staging 4th of July firework displays and Santa Claus arrivals. Each year, Santa would arrive by different means, including a fire engine, six-horse hitch, and hot air balloon. The hot air balloon arrival made international headlines, as Santa Claus crash-landed in tree boughs high above Caledonia State Park.

Always a dreamer, Gotwalt re-invented Mister Ed’s as an elephant museum and candy emporium at its current location on Feb. 26, 1983. As the business grew, and it became known as a must-see destination, Gotwalt added rooms and an ever-changing stock of unique candy and gifts.

Ed and Pat spent much of their life with Mister Ed’s on the road. At the peak, the pair was selling candy and peanuts at 42 different events as far away as Georgia and Michigan. Closer to home, they participated in the National Apple Harvest Festival, Gettysburg Reenactment and York Fair.

Some of his fondest memories come from being on stage at Totem Pole Playhouse, and being part of films like the “Route 30 Trilogy” and “Father and the Bear,” by longtime friend John Putch.

Everyone knows Mister Ed, but few know the real Eddie Lee. At every turn throughout his life, he experienced the lowest lows that would bring other men to their knees. Even in the face of the unthinkable, he was unsinkable. But he also relished in the highest highs, always knowing with absolute certainty they would come. He possessed a child-like optimism and saw good everywhere he went. He was a gambler, who knew that big risks brought big returns. He was generous and loyal to a fault. He was a traveler, not a tourist, who was most alive when exploring the world and finding off-the-beaten-path gems that few dared to discover. His favorite places were the tiny island of St. Martin and the Theatre District of Manhattan. He was fed by theater, and made many friends through the years. To him, all the world was a stage, and he used his talents at every opportunity to do good and bring joy to people. Most of all, he fiercely loved his family.

A celebration of life service is being planned for late spring at Lower Marsh Creek Presbyterian Church, where he was a member and sang in the choir.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Monahan Funeral Home.

In his memory, the family recommends donations to his beloved Totem Pole Playhouse, P.O. Box 603, 9555 Golf Course Road, Fayetteville, PA 17222.

Condolences may be sent to his family at 6019 Chambersburg Road, Orrtanna, PA 17353.760 Comments2.9K Shares

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Calvin James Gilbert, Sr., 86, 0f Orrtanna, passed away peacefully on Thursday, February 18, 2021 at Wellspan Gettysburg Hospital.  He was the loving husband of Delores Mae (Weaver) Gilbert, Orrtanna.  Together they shared 68 years of marriage.

He was born July 24, 1934 in Etters, the son of the late Daniel Winters and Mary Elizabeth (Anderson) Gilbert.

Mr. Gilbert delivered milk for Mason Dixon Dairy and later was a milk tester for the Pennsylvania Dairy Herd Improvement Association. He was a member of St. Ignatius Loyola Catholic Church, Orrtanna and sang in the church choir.  An accomplished bluegrass fiddler, he played with the Hilltop Harmonizers and Tailor Made and especially enjoyed his Friday night jam sessions at the Arrow Horse on Chambersburg Street in Gettysburg.  He operated Jim’s Taxidermy for several years and will be remembered for his positive attitude and wonderful sense of humor.  

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his children, Linda Black and husband Randy, Hudson, MA, Calvin J. Gilbert, Jr., Gettysburg, Suzanne Pinion and husband Danny, Sabillasville, MD, Michael A. Gilbert and wife Cindy, Rockville, MD, Barbara Gebhart and husband Michael, Gettysburg, Tony Gilbert and wife Rita, Ft. Pierce, FL, Loretta Plitt and husband Mike, Biglerville, Gregory M. Gilbert and wife Tina, Fairfield, Karen Nowak and husband Alex, Gettysburg and Patrick J. Gilbert and wife Beth, Arendstville; brother, Donald A. Gilbert and wife Phyllis, Fairfield; 18 grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his sisters and brothers, Dorothy Heflin, Lavora Stauffer, Janet, Elliot, Phyllis Kerr, Richard “Dick” Gilbert and Robert Gilbert.

A Funeral Mass will be held at a later date at St. Ignatius Loyola Catholic Church, 1095 Church Rd., Orrtanna with Rev. Dominic DiBiccaro officiating.  Burial will be in St. Ignatius Cemetery, Orrtanna.

This obituary was originally published here.

Arlene (Kime) Lawver, 96, of Gettysburg, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, January 27, 2021 at SpiriTrust Lutheran The Village at Gettysburg. She was the loving wife of the late John D. Lawver, Sr who passed away February 1, 1998; together they shared 52 years of marriage.

Born Saturday, February 23, 1924 in Gettysburg, she was a daughter of the late Guy and Edna Mae (Adams) Kime.

Arlene was a member of St. James Lutheran Church in Gettysburg where she was a Sunday School Teacher and in the Martin Luther Choir for over 30 years. Throughout her life Mrs. Lawver had many activities and memberships some of which include, working at the Gettysburg Garment Factory, Den Mother for Cub Pack 79, serving meals for the Gettysburg Fire Department and also working the Gettysburg Fireman’s Carnival for over 30 years, working the snack bar at the Gettysburg Skating Rink and working at the bike shop and she was also an avid Baltimore Orioles fan. Arlene was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister and friend; she worked in the community her entire life and will be deeply missed by so many.

Mrs. Lawver is survived by two children, Jane Blocher and her husband Glenn of Gettysburg, John D. Lawver, Jr. and his wife Kelly of Gettysburg; five siblings, Ruth Anna Polley of Gettysburg, Nadine Dean of Gettysburg, Betty Kime of Hanover, Nancy Gilbert of Gettysburg, Jean Spangler and her husband Robert of Gettysburg; three grandchildren, Daniel Blocher of Chambersburg, David Blocher and his wife Stacy of Gettysburg, Jennifer Perchulyn and her husband Peter of Arendtsville; five great grandchildren, Brittni Blocher of Gettysburg, Dylan Blocher of York, Kaelyn Blocher of Gettysburg, Landon Blocher of Gettysburg, Hannah Perchulyn of Arendtsville; a brother-in-law, Edward Lawver of Chalfont and many loving nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.

In addition to her parents and husband, Arlene, was preceded in death by two brothers, Guy C. Kime, Jr. and Donald Kime.

The viewing and services will be private and at the convenience of the family. Burial will be at Oak Lawn Memorial Gardens, Gettysburg.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to St, James Lutheran Church, 109 York St, Gettysburg, PA 17325.

This obituary was originally published here.

Lawrence E. “Larry” Shrader, 74, died Sunday, January 24, 2021, at his home.  He was the husband of Glenda G. (Hoke) Shrader, his wife of 49 years.

Larry was born July 25, 1946, in Hanover, the son of the late William H. and Dorothy A. (Bevenour) Shrader.

Larry was a 1965 graduate of Delone Catholic High School, a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in New Oxford, and he served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War.  He was a life member of the New Oxford Social & Athletic Club, the McSherrystown Home Association, and United Hook & Ladder #33, and he was a member of the American Legion.

In addition to his wife Glenda, Larry is survived by two sons, Anthony L. Shrader and his significant other, Dawn Matteo of Pittsburgh, and Kevin E. Shrader and his wife Jenny of Abbottstown, five grandchildren, four great grandchildren, two sisters, Joyce Hull and her husband Thomas of Hanover, and Linda Martin and her husband John of Orrtanna, and a brother, Timothy Shrader and his wife Melanie of York.  He was predeceased by two brothers, Ronald and Thomas Shrader.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, January 28, 2021, at 11 AM, at Feiser Funeral Home, Inc, 302 Lincoln Way West, New Oxford, with Rev. Keith Carroll officiating.  Burial will be in Marburg Memorial Gardens in Hanover.  A viewing will be held at the funeral home on Thursday, from 9 AM until the time of the service.  Memorial contributions may be made to the American Legion, 201 Carlisle St, Hanover, PA 17331.  Memories may be shared at www.feiserfuneralhome.com.

This obituary was originally published here.

Jane T. Taylor, age 92, of Biglerville, passed peacefully Sunday, January 10, 2021 at her home. She was born Friday, Nov…

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Joseph Jerome Senter, 58, died peacefully on January 27th, after a long battle with cancer, at his residence in Niceville, FL.

Joe was born on May 24th, 1962 in Hanover, PA.  He was a father, husband, brother, and son.  Joe leaves behind his loving and caring wife, Suphaphon (Aom) Senter and daughter, Angelica Senter at home and his daughter, Mirijam Senter and son, Dario Senter, residing in Mannheim, Germany.

Joe also leaves his father, Burleigh Senter, Stepmother, Loretta Senter, and brother Timothy Senter of North Carolina and sisters, Shirley Leonhardt, Susanna Cook, Patricia Senter Bealmear and Kathryn Senter, all in Pennsylvania, as well as many beloved nieces and nephews.  Joe was preceded in death by his mother, Mildred Elaine (Tully) Senter and his stepsister, Rae Ann Senter Blesi.

Joe attended Spring Grove High School with the class of 1981 and later received his GED and joined the Army.  He found great success and belonging in the military.  He served in the Army as an Infantryman and later served in four branches of the military as a Department of Defense Civilian.  He was an excellent marksman and highly credentialed in Government Information Technology with a multitude of certifications in technology and Cyber Security.  He was one of six men chosen by Major Generals, and the first ever to pass, an intense six-hour certification in tech security. 

Joe was a world traveler via his career, residing in Germany, Japan, South Korea, Thailand, and many locations in the United States.  He immersed himself into the culture of each country he lived in and learned what he could of the language and culture.  He fluently spoke German, basic Thai and basic Italian, as well as his native language, English.  Joe developed a passion for photography and captured beauty in the everyday world around him.  Joe was a genuine man.  He had an infectious smile and was funny, engaging, loving, and cared deeply for his family and his friends. 

Joe will be terribly missed by his family, friends, co-workers, and all who knew and loved him. 

A memorial service will be held on Friday, February 5, 2021, at 6 PM, at Feiser Funeral Home, Inc, 306 Harrisburg St., East Berlin, with Rev. Tony Wallen officiating.  A visitation will be held at the funeral home on Friday, from 5 PM until the time of the service.  Memories may be shared at www.feiserfuneralhome.com.

(This obituary was originally published here)