Obituaries
John A. McKenzie, 86
July 04, 2018
John A. McKenzie, 86 of Manheim Twp., passed away on Wednesday, July 4, 2018. Born in Kansas City, MO, he was the son of the late Byron and Bernice (Benning) McKenzie.
While attending high school, John worked as a librarian at the Harrisburg Public Library. Following graduation from Lebanon Valley College, he taught elementary instrumental music in the Lampeter-Strasburg School District for 36 years, sharing his love of music with hundreds of young students. John also played in the 553rd Air National Guard Band of the Northeast for 10 years. An avid flyer, he worked as a commercial pilot at the former New Holland Airport. Following retirement, John worked part-time as Manager of the Collingwood Golf Driving Range, and as a Conductor on the Strasburg Rail Road. John was a world traveler and through the years visited over 90 countries; he also enjoyed sailing on the Susquehanna. John always had stories of his adventures, the most famous being that of playing “fetch” with a blue-footed booby on the Galapagos Islands. He was a long-time member of Highland Presbyterian Church where he enjoyed singing in the choir.
John was the last surviving member of his immediate family. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his brother, Richard McKenzie.
At John’s request, all services will be private.
Many thanks to the administration and caregivers of Oak Leaf Manor, The Long Community at Highland, and Hospice and Community Care for their compassionate and loving care through the years.
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Condolences to the Family
July 27, 2018
Mr. McKenzie told so many amazing stories if his wonderful life. He will be missed.
July 25, 2018
I was John’s taxi driver for years, and he became like a second father to me. Even scolding me when he thought I needed it. Unfortunately I moved to Ohio a year and a half ago and haven’t seen him since, but he will always have a place in my heart. I loved him dearly. RIP John. I love you 😇❤️
July 25, 2018
I have vivid memories of Mr. McKenzie’s kindness and patience as he taught me my instrument. He was a truly decent man. We have lost one of the good guys.
Steve Mersky
July 25, 2018
The greatest Elementary Music teacher/Elementary Band Director I have ever known. He had a special and compassionate way with the children as they learned to play musical instruments. How wonderful it was to see a man like John McKenzie use his God given gift. “For heights and depths no words can reach, music is the soul’s own speech”. Thank you John McKenzie and R.I.P. Mrs. Bonnie Gantz mother of John’s student Tina (Gantz) Rosenau.
July 24, 2018
My big brother, Jim Reed, was music director for LSHS and a good friend of John’s. That’s how I became acquainted with him and, yes, he was very talented and a fun person to be around. I’m sure he and Jim will now be enjoying some good jam sessions together. Judith Reed Kaufman, Easton, Maryland
July 23, 2018
I was john cab driver for many years loved his stories you will be missed John.you will be missed .sharon bruno
July 23, 2018
My husband and I met John at Cafe East in Centerville where he would go on a regular basis. He would sit by himself with his bottle of wine and his favorite Chinese dish, pineapple shrimp. My husband, being very gregarious, approached him one day and introduced himself. They became fast friends at the restaurant, exchanging life stories and jokes. We both enjoyed his quick wit. Andrea and Houston
July 23, 2018
Mr. MacKenzie was a huge part of my life. As my elementary band director in 1964-66, he taught us about having a sense of humor, and buckling down to practice and make beautiful music! After all those years, I am still telling his jokes (the ones I remember). Anyone remember the one about the rabbit saying, “Well, this IS a Westinghouse, isn’t it?” His memory will always be with me. Joni Martin Shirk
July 23, 2018
I’m a graduate of LSHS class of 1971. I remember Mr McKenzie as the teacher who helped me realize I had an intetest in music. Imagine what it was like to be 11 to 14 years old and going to the NY worlds fair to perform as a band. Thank you Mr McKenzie
Greg Schwarz
