Donald J. Hetrick, 92

November 25, 2025

Donald J. Hetrick, 92, of Lancaster, passed away peacefully on November 25, 2025. Born in Lancaster, he was the son of the late Ethel Bentley. He was the adoring husband to Anna Mary Hetrick, and they raised three Pomeranians until her passing in 1989.

Don attended J.P. McCaskey High School. He enlisted in the US Army at age 17 and proudly served in Germany. Don worked at Lancaster Malleable Foundry for 28 years. He was known for being a kind, positive, and friendly man, who loved animals, playing chess, and doing word searches. He enjoyed the simple things in life, working weekends on the Gruber family farm, dog sitting for family, and volunteering at Lancaster Mennonite Home and St. Joseph Hospital.

Don is survived by stepchildren Jacquelyn Preperato (Thomas) and Jeffrey Price; 2 grandchildren: Christopher Preperato (Amanda) and T. J. Preperato; and great-granddaughter River Preperato.

Services will be private at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, please consider memorial contributions in Don’s name to Lancaster Farm Sanctuary, 1871 Milton Grove Rd, Mount Joy, PA 17552.