Ernest T. Vitatoe, 86, of Lancaster, PA, passed away on Sunday, October 30, 2011 at Lancaster General Hospital.

He was the husband of Mary F. Bonawitz Vitatoe, with whom he celebrated 26 years of marriage this past April 5 ^th . He had previously been married to the late Betty J. Reese Vitatoe, who passed away in 1984. Born in Kingston, OK, he was the son of the late Milton and Rhoda Frances Teel Vitatoe.

Ernest had worked for Armstrong World Industries as a foreman for 39 years.

A sportsman, he enjoyed hunting, bowling, golf and was very athletic.

He had been of the Methodist faith when he lived in Oklahoma, but he was affiliated with the Lancaster Church of the Nazarene in recent years.

Ernest was a US Army veteran of World War II, serving as a Corporal in the African and Italian campaigns.

In addition to his wife, Mary, he is survived by his son, Ernest D. married to Sue Vitatoe of Lancaster; his stepdaughters Debra married to Dale Witmer of New Providence and Carol married to Michael Bastendorf of Lancaster; his 8 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Brenda Burkholder.

Friends will be received on Thursday, November 3, 2011 from 1-2PM at the Charles F. Snyder Funeral Home & Crematory, 441 N. George St., Millersville, PA , with the Funeral Service to follow at 2PM, the Rev. Mark Justice officiating. Interment in Millersville Mennonite Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in his memory to the United Way of Lancaster County, 630 Janet Ave, #A100, Lancaster, PA 17601-4589. To send an online condolence, please visit SnyderFuneralHome.com. Charles F. Snyder Funeral Home & Crematory 872-5041