Harvey Obetz, 76, former local Union president and Army veteran, passed away Wednesday, April 4, 2012 after a short illness.

Mr. Obetz is survived by his wife of 52 years, the former Monique Descamps, three daughters, Brigitte  Seldomridge, Christine Tufano and Michele Obetz-Moore, seven grandchildren – Nathan, Daniele, Lauren and Marc Seldomridge, Matthew and Alison Tufano and Megan Moore, and one great granddaughter, Luna Seldomridge.

Born in 1935 in Locustdale, PA, to the late Mazie Snyder and Lawrence Obetz, Harvey was the 5th of 9 children. Surviving siblings include Bernice Webster, Leonard Obetz, Ronald Obetz, Rita Burchett, and Rhoda Eshleman.  He was preceded in death by a sister, Wanita Greenawalt and brothers, Lawrence and Noah Obetz.

Mr. Obetz was drafted into the Army in 1958 and was stationed in France, where he fell in love and married his wife, Monique. Upon returning to Lancaster, the couple raised their three daughters. Mr. Obetz worked for almost 40 years as a machinist at Kerr Glass, and was elected president of the local United Rubber Workers Union.  Until his illness, he worked at the Manheim Auto Auction.  In recent years, the couple moved to Lititz, where he was known for his beautiful lawn and garden.  He also enjoyed playing with his many grandchildren and fishing.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, April 9 at 11 AM at St. James Roman Catholic Church, 505 Woodcrest Avenue, Lititz, PA 17543 with Rev. James O'Blaney as Celebrant.  The family will receive guests at the church beginning at 10 AM.  Burial will be private.  In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, 314 Good Drive, Lancaster, PA 17603.  To send the family online condolences, please visit SnyderFuneralHome.com. Charles F. Snyder, Jr. Funeral Home & Crematory 717-560-5100.