Duane R. Reitz, 91

August 31, 2025

Duane R. Reitz of Lancaster, PA passed away at home on Sunday, August 31, 2025, a week after celebrating his 91st birthday. He was the son of the late Robert C. and Beatrice R. Reitz. On August 28, he and his loving and devoted wife, Shirley Connelly Reitz celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary.

During his teenage years he helped his father build bridges through Conestoga Construction Company and helped to build the house that he has lived in since 1961.

After working for Miller and Bushong in Rohrerstown for 12 years he decided to start out on his own and formed Duane R. Reitz self-proprietor that later became Reitz Oil Company. He ran that company with his wife by his side until 2001 when son and daughter-in-law, Keith and Linda bought the business. Reitz Oil Company is now in its’ third generation as Keith and Linda recently sold it to their own daughter Lauren, and son-in-law Jesse McNeely. It gave Duane great joy to see the business flourish under a third generation.

He was a lifelong member at Salem United Church of Christ in Rohrerstown serving as both an elder and a deacon. Following in his father’s footsteps he was a graduate of Steven’s Trade School (now Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology) where he was later awarded an honorary doctorate for his more than thirty years as chair of the Home Board of the school. He was also a 32nd degree Mason of the Masonic Lodge # 43 for over 60 years. He also served many years as a committee member of Rohrerstown Cemetery.

Duane was the proud father of four children – Mark (Lynne), Brian (Tammy), Keith (Linda), and Kathy (Ruel). He was loved by his eight grandchildren Doug & Dana, McKenna & Evan, Lauren & Erin, and Eric & Alex along with 9 great-grandchildren Savannah, Kate, Grant & Sofia; Colin & Jensen, Paityn & Harper; and Emma. He will be dearly missed by his wife and the 3 generations he leaves behind.

Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by his sisters Janet and Joan

At Duane’s request, there will be a private graveside service for immediate family at the Rohrerstown Reformed & Lutheran Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations can be made to Salem United Church of Christ 2313 Marietta Ave., Lancaster, PA 17603 or The Home Board of Thaddeus Stevens School of Technology 750 E. King St., Lancaster, PA 17602.