Elam Herr, 73

September 02, 2025

Elam Herr, 73, of Landisville, PA, passed away on Tuesday September 2nd, 2025 leaving
behind a legacy of kindness, service, laughter, and storytelling.

Elam earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in History and Political Science from Millersville
University and a Master of Public Administration degree from the University of Pittsburgh. He
built a successful career spanning five decades as the Director of Legislation and Assistant
Executive Director for the Pennsylvania State Association of Township Supervisors. In addition
to his work with PSATS, Elam spent decades in leadership roles including, but certainly not
limited to, those on the East Hempfield Zoning Hearing Board, the Lancaster Osteopathic
Hospital Board of Directors, the Amos Herr House Foundation and Historical Society, and
multiple other responsible land-use committees.

Elam held many passions throughout his life, but none more important than the time he spent
with his family and, more recently, his grandchildren. In his short time as a grandfather, he
poured love and joy into every moment, leaving behind memories that will forever shape and
enrich their lives. Beyond family time, Elam was often called upon by friends and relatives to
help build or repair anything from furniture to appliances to household projects. Though he had
no formal training, he possessed a keen and trusted mechanical mind that made him the first
person many turned to for help. In his free time, Elam took pride in maintaining one of the best
lawns in his neighborhood and transforming his home into the scariest house on the block
each Halloween with his imaginative and elaborate displays. He was also a phenomenal skier,
fortunate to ski across the United States and Europe. Elam often said that even if he could ski
every day of his life, it still wouldn’t be enough.

Elam passed away due to glioblastoma, a highly aggressive form of brain cancer. Over the
course of two years, he faced two brain surgeries, radiation, multiple rounds of chemotherapy,
and participation in two clinical trials. While glioblastoma is a terminal diagnosis, Elam met it
head on with true bravery, inspiring hope in others facing similar battles and contributing to the
advancement of treatments through his involvement in cutting-edge research.

Elam is predeceased by his father, Elam Herr; his mother, Adalene Rutter; his step-father,
William Rutter; and his sisters Lillian Granfield, Catharine Horvath, and Joan Veith. Elam is
survived by his beloved wife of 37 years, Patti Herr; his children, JD (Alex) Herr and Caitlin
(Craig) Lager; and two grandchildren, Owen Herr and Scarlett Lager. There was no greater
love than the love Elam shared with his family.

Friends and family are invited to celebrate Elam’s life on Saturday, September 20th at Charles
F. Snyder Funeral Home located at 3110 Lititz Pike, Lititz, PA 17543. Visitation is scheduled
from 10am-12pm and a service will begin at 12pm. To honor Elam and his legacy, please
spend time with your loved ones, be a leader for positive change, help others in need, and
share your favorite stories thoroughly and regularly. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating
to the Glioblastoma Foundation (glioblastomafoundation.org) in memory of Elam’s admirable
strength.