Ad A. Crable III, 72

August 28, 2025

Ad A. Crable III, of Lancaster, Pennsylvania, a loving father, grandfather and uncle, faithful husband and family man, outdoor enthusiast and admired journalist, departed our world on August 28, 2025, after a cherished life. He was 72.

Ad is survived by his wife and partner Jennifer Kopf; three children, Dr. Allison Galer (wife of Joshua Galer), Hannah Crable, and Lena Crable; and his siblings sister Holly Graver, and brothers Trent and Brett Crable. He is preceded in death by his mom and dad, Charlene and Ad A. Crable Jr. He was beloved by his grandchildren Jackson and Ella Galer, and nieces, nephews and in-laws.

Ad had a distinguished career in Journalism after obtaining his degree from West Virginia University where he remained the university’s most avid fan. He worked for multiple newspapers in his career and was most recognized for his articles as Outdoor Editor at the Lancaster New Era for decades. His fans and readers were delighted by his storytelling and authentic approach. His work demonstrated a unique skill as a verbal artist, was admired by peers and greatly appreciated by his readers.

Ad was committed to environmental stewardship and delighted in sharing his love for the outdoors. In his later years, he wrote for the Chesapeake Bay Journal. His love for the outdoors helped shape his life and influence others. In a letter to his daughter years ago, he wrote, “My motivation was to expose you to the wonders of nature, to what is so much a part of my life. It’s something that profoundly brings me peace and shows me order and hope in a world that is often hard and confusing.”

Ad’s personal life touched many. He was often described as “one of the nicest and kindest people I know.” He possessed a ferocious curiosity and optimistic attitude. Regardless of the topic, there was an insatiable enthusiasm for it – even towards the most trivial of topics. He had a witty personality, great sense of humor and was always grateful for whatever he received. People immediately liked
Ad and found his charming innocence authentic and trustworthy. He was never more at peace than when in the pollinator garden he planted or at the family cabin in West Virginia.

Family was paramount to Ad. He was a dedicated father and loving husband. He adored all his family and was a doting grandfather and “favorite uncle”. Ad had a life well lived and all that knew him benefited.

Rest in peace dearest Ad – we love you so.

Friends and family will be received on Saturday, September 6, 2025, from 1PM to 3PM at Charles F. Snyder III Funeral Home & Crematory, 2421 Willow Street Pike, Willow Street, PA 17584. A Memorial Service will follow beginning at 3PM.

In lieu of flowers, donations would be appreciated to the Lancaster County Conservancy, lancasterconservancy.org or 117 S. West End Ave., Lancaster, PA 17603.