David M. "Dave" Wise

David M. Wise, 78, of Lancaster, passed away peacefully at home on June 30, 2026. Born and raised in Lancaster, he was the beloved son of the late John F. and Martha (Wagner) Wise.

Dave was a graduate of J.P. McCaskey High School (Class of 1965) and went on to earn his business administration degree from Elizabethtown College in 1969. A proud veteran, he honorably served his country in the National Guard from 1969 to 1975. Also in 1969, Dave began his career at the original Penn Dairies and remained there for 45 years through corporate reorganizations. He was a dedicated credit manager, highly respected for his wisdom, deep professional knowledge, and meticulous attention to detail. Dave retired in 2015.

Following in his father's footsteps, Dave played in a local fast-pitch softball league, representing Christ Lutheran as their catcher for nearly two decades. He also actively participated in area volleyball and bowling leagues, where his camaraderie and good nature shone through. As an avid sports fan, Dave loved the spirit of local sports as well as cheering on his Phillies and Penn State football and wrestling.

Dave's faith and community roots ran deep in Lancaster. He was a dedicated 51-year member of Christ Lutheran Church in Lancaster and a 27-year member of Zion Lutheran Church in Landisville. Over the decades, he generously volunteered his time in various leadership capacities, serving faithfully on finance committees and church councils.

Beyond his professional and community achievements, Dave will always be remembered most for his character. He was a man of immense kindness, steadfast honesty, quiet wisdom, deep generosity, and wit accompanied by a clever sense of humor. As a talented cook, he delighted in preparing meals for his family and friends, and loved making trips to the grocery store. Above all else, Dave was a dedicated husband, father and grandfather who centered his life around providing for the people he loved.

Dave is survived by his beloved wife of 41 years, Susan (Slike) Wise; his two children, Jessica (Matthew) Barcaro and Jonathan Wise; and his two cherished grandchildren, Grant and Julia Barcaro. He is also survived by his siblings, Diane (Tom) Huber and John (Arlene) Wise Jr., along with a close-knit circle of extended family and lifelong friends.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend Dave's memorial service at Zion Lutheran Church, 85 E. Brandt Blvd., Landisville, PA 17538 on Saturday, July 18 at 11:00 a.m. The family will receive friends from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Dave's name may be made to Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church and Hospice & Community Care. To send the family online condolences please visit, www.snyderfuneralhome.com.