Gwendolyn Bortzfield

Gwendolyn Faye Bortzfield, 87, of Lancaster, passed away on April 22, 2026.

Born on August 28, 1938, she was the daughter of the late Truman and Helen Erb. Gwen was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 67 years, Lloyd Bortzfield, who passed on March 14, 2026. Together they shared a lifetime of love, laughter, and unwavering companionship. She will always be remembered as his "Snookie," a name that captured the deep affection between them.

A graduate of Pequea Valley High School, Gwen began her working years at Lancaster General Hospital, where she lovingly fed and cared for premature babies. She later spent more than 40 years working alongside an auctioneer, where her keen eye and appreciation for history naturally flourished.

An avid antique collector and a voracious reader, Gwen found joy in the stories held within objects and books alike. She was well known for her ornery sense of humor, her love of a good laugh, and her unmatched ability to people-watch with both curiosity and wit. She had a way of noticing the little things that others missed, often sharing her observations with a sharp, endearing charm.

She is survived by her children, Shawn Bortzfield (Joan) of Lancaster and Trish Simmons (Nick) of Mountville; her granddaughter, Devon Bortzfield (Spenser) of Columbia; her sister, Bonita Wertz of Mount Joy; and her brother-in-law, Harry Bortzfield (Shirl) of Millersville. She also leaves behind extended family and dear friends who will miss her deeply.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the First Presbyterian Church of Strasburg's Food Bank, in her memory.

While the past year has been a difficult one for the Bortzfield family, they find comfort in the love and support of friends and family, and in the many memories they shared together. Gwenny's spirit lives on in those who knew her, along with her simple and steadfast words: "It is what it is."