Obituaries
Josiah Mark Christophel, 22
August 26, 2024
Josiah Mark Christophel, 22, of State College, and formerly of Lititz, passed away unexpectedly on August 26, 2024. Born in Quarryville, PA, he was the son of Todd and Janet (Wagner) Christophel.
Josiah was a 2020 graduate of Warwick High School, and a 2024 graduate of Penn State University with his bachelor’s in Cybersecurity Analytics and Operations. He worked as a Cyber Information Assurance Analyst for Penn State’s Applied Research Laboratory – his dream job. Josiah was a talented trumpet player and played in his high school marching band, Penn State Blue Band, and even played in the Rose Bowl parade of 2023. Josiah is remembered as compassionate, humble, and empathetic.
In addition to his parents, Josiah is survived by his brother Andrew, paternal grandfather Levon Christophel, maternal grandmother Jean Wagner, and aunts, uncles, and cousins. He was predeceased by his paternal grandmother Virginia Christophel and maternal grandfather John Wagner.
A memorial service will be held on Monday, September 2, 2024, at 11 AM at Grace Church, 501 W Lincoln Ave, Lititz, PA 17543. The family will receive guests beginning at 10 AM. Flowers and cards can be sent directly to the church.
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Condolences to the Family
September 18, 2024
We are so sorry that Josiah has passed from this world. We will always remember him and his loving, energetic parents from Warwick Band activities, and how much talent he brought to the band.
You are daily in our thoughts and prayers, and we pray that someday the sun will shine brightly for you again. We pray for God’s comfort and loving embrace to help you through this difficult time.
In Christian Love,
Brenda and Rich Barnes
September 09, 2024
Are deepest condolences for the loss of your son. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Lisa, Brian & Ethan Zipko
September 07, 2024
Todd, Janet, and Andrew,
We are saddened to hear about Josiah’s passing. Losing a child and a brother is very difficult to bear. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Mark and Kathy Christophel (Lavon’s cousin)
September 05, 2024
Dearest family of Josiah, My heart just aches for all of you in your most difficult loss. Josiah was a true treasure, and I was so grateful to have had him in my English class his junior year at Warwick. He was a gentle, always kind, thoughtful, reflective, and talented young man. Praying for all of you as you walk this most difficult grief journey.
Sharon Wilson
September 04, 2024
Dear Todd, Janet & Andrew – There are no words…you are all in our prayers. May God comfort you, knowing he is in the arms of Jesus.
Bill & Crystal D and family
September 04, 2024
Hello to the Christophel family. I am so very sorry to hear of the passing of Josiah. He was a bright star in our college. I have spoken with many of his professors and fellow students and all had kind words to say about Josiah. We are all deeply saddened by his sudden passing. The world is a little darker without his light. My deepest condolences. Dr. Andrea Tapia, Dean of the College of Information Sciences and Technology at Penn State University.
Dr. Andrea Tapia
September 03, 2024
Josiah was one of the kindest, most generous friends i’ve ever had. I’ll never forget the way his laugh carried across a room and how he prioritized the needs of others. Josiah and I became good friends and went to formal together our junior year at Penn State. The theme of the dance was “black and bling”, and he came to pick me up wearing a plastic jeweled crown smiling ear to ear. We spent the whole night laughing and dancing together. It was not only my favorite memory with Josiah, but one of my favorite college memories overall. He truly had a heart of gold and will forever be missed. His service was beautiful and I give my biggest condolences to your family.
Grace Rishel
September 03, 2024
Dear Todd, Janet, and Andrew, I had the pleasure of first meeting Josiah at PSU/ARL when he was interning with IST. Working with him was awesome. Even though we had so many employees he made me feel special. He called me by name and always saw my IT issues through. He didn’t hand them off to someone he completed the job! I started taking treats to the folks at IT because of him. He always went above and beyond and his knowledge base was truly amazing. Thank you for allowing me to meet and work with your incredible son. I will hold your family in my heart and pray that the pain will be more bearable as time passes. May you find peace in knowing your son was one incrediable person who will be missed by many.
Tina Hoy
September 03, 2024
Words cannont express the sorrow and sympathy i feel for your family. Losing a child is like nothing else. I pray that your faith holds you up and grants you some peace as you navaigate through this time and going forward. May you treasure the countless memories you have of the wonderful life you were able to share with him. I am so very sorry for your loss.
Faith Blough
September 03, 2024
Janet & Todd,
I am truly sorry for your loss. As a parent i cant imagine your pain. I had the pleasure of knowing your boys while working with Todd and thru the PAT program. I know you both loved your boys to the ends of this Earth. From reading the condolences both here and on FB Josiah touched the lives of those who were fortunate enough to come in contact with and there are so many who share in your grief during this difficult time. Be thankful for having loved him and anticipate the joy of seeing him again someday. Let all the beautiful memories you have with Josiah, and the love he had for his parents, help comfort you
Jennifer Wiest
September 03, 2024
For the short time that I knew Josiah as a coworker, I looked to him fondly for his hard work ethic and friendliness and he was nothing short of an inspiration to me. I’ll miss him a lot, and my heart goes out to his family. May he rest peacefully.
Allie
September 02, 2024
I am so sorry for your loss, Josiah is beautiful! I just found out about his passing. I would have been at the service had I know.
Edwards Rose
September 02, 2024
Todd and Janet, Todd when you were small children living in Detroit my family was very close friends of your family. You and my son Joey and daughter Kari played together as children. My heart is breaking for you and your family at the loss of your beloved Josiah. I’m sorry I never knew him but I feel like I do because of all the wonderful descriptions people are sharing about him. I know your parents very well Todd so I know the character of those who are a part of Josiah and you as well Todd and Janet. Janet that was a most eloquent and heartfelt tribute you were able to stand and give to your son on such a day. He lives every day in you both and will continue to live through all the people whose lives he touched. Todd I’ve been sharing the information of this tragedy with my son Joey who, like you and Janet has a young 22 yo son just beginning his post graduate life as an adult. We are sending our love and prayers to you all. Anna Mae and Joey
September 02, 2024
I had the pleasure of knowing him via his musical endeavors, and playing together on a few occasions. He was a very kind, responsible and polite young man, and of course, a talented musician. He will be missed. My deep condolensces to his friends and family.
John C. Grisbacher
September 02, 2024
Dear Todd and Janet, Yesterday at Pilgrims church we learned about your son’s tragic accident. We are keeping you in our prayers as you go through these hard times.
John and Lynn Williamson
September 02, 2024
You are experiencing a parents worst nightmare and our hearts ache for your pain. We are very sorry for your unexpected and unbearable loss. All we can do is hold on to the promises of God that he can get us through anything and everything.
Falcon Family- (Ivan’s parents)
September 02, 2024
Josiah and I met the first week at Penn State. He was the kindness person I’ve met. He always found a way to make me laugh. I can only say the nicest things about him. Freshman year with Josiah and our friend group is the reason I stayed at Penn State. He would listen to me complain about classes and give his best advice with a smile. He forever will be a part of my Penn State memories and I am honored to call Josiah my friend and confidant. My deepest condolences to Janet, Todd, and Andrew.
Susan Pacer
September 02, 2024
Todd, Mike and I were sad and shocked to hear of your son’s passing. We always enjoyed hearing stories about Josiah. We have been thinking of you and your family every day. Know that we are here for you and will support you in anyway we can. Tammi and Mike
September 01, 2024
Todd, Janet and Andrew
We were sorry to hear of the unexpected loss of your son Josiah. Our heart aches for you at this time. It was nice getting in touch with you last summer. I remember how proud you were of both your boys. How you enjoyed watching Josiah march at Penn State, and the Rose Bowl. You and your family are in our prayers.
Stan,Lydia, Nick and Nathan Christophel
September 01, 2024
Dear Janet, as friends from Lititz Church of the Brethren, we want you, Todd and Andrew, to know that we are so sorry for the loss of son and brother, Josiah. May God surround you unending love and peace. Blessings, Tim and Jill Keyser Speicher.
September 01, 2024
Dear Todd, Janet, and Andrew,
We’re so sorry to hear about your sons passing. He truly was a blessing to you and we know you are grieving. We will keep you all in our prayers.
Love, Steve & Faith Christophel & Family
September 01, 2024
Dear Todd, Janet and Andrew, it was a shock to hear the news of your loss of Josiah. I will remember the good times of going to football games to see Josiah play in the marching band. Praying for you all! Love Ruth Christophel
September 01, 2024
Dearest Janet, Todd, and Andrew, I am heartbroken to hear of your dear son’s passing. It is such a shock to get this kind of news. May God give all of you peace, comfort, and strength in the days ahead. Keeping all of you in my prayers. Love and hugs, Esther Weaver
August 31, 2024
Josiah loved the Lord. He would attend The Salt Company (Christian fellowship) every week with a notebook and pencil at hand during my senior year at Penn State (his freshman year). I had the honor of going through the Gospel of Mark with him. He was hungry to know more of God, and he always asked excellent questions and listened very well. He was compassionate, and I enjoyed hanging out with him.
I remember when he started getting into chess and it made me so excited. He was a brilliant, kind man that knew his need for Jesus Christ.
To the family – I cannot imagine what you are feeling right now. I’m crying with you, but I know you’re crying harder. I’m grieving with you, but I know you’re suffering in your grief. Know that Tragedy doesn’t ruin us… Hopelessness does. May you find Hope and Peace knowing that Josiah made it through the race that we are all on… it was just so much shorter than we all would have hoped. Tomorrow is not promised to any of us. That’s why we must live for what is most important — to glorify God and enjoy Him forever. Continue to place your hope in our Resurrected King who conquered sin, Satan and the grave, for your redemption, and you will see Josiah again. Josiah – you will be dearly missed from this side of heaven. I look forward to seeing you in eternity with the Triune God of the universe where we can play all the chess we want. So long my brother… Until we meet again.
Danny Caban
August 31, 2024
Todd, Janet and Andrew,
My heart has been aching ever since I heard of Josiah’s unexpected death. Once again I’m reminded that God has all of our days numbered and that each day given is a gift. I pray the Lord will comfort you all❤️
much love,
Deb Murray
August 31, 2024
Todd, Janet and Andrew…..our most sincere condolences to each of you as you grieve the loss of Josiah. He sounds like an amazing young man who touched the lives of many in a caring and positive manner. We will keep each of you in our prayers and pray God’s peace will comfort you. Jeff and Brenda Eshelman
August 31, 2024
I did not know Josiah, but I am crying as I write this. My heart goes out to his family and all who knew him.
John M
August 30, 2024
I never knew Josiah but I had been praying for this young man’s quick recovery ever since I drove by his accident on Benner Bike on that miserable day. Its just devastating. I had been praying for his quick recovery ever since, until the news confirming his sad demise. My deepest and most heartfelt condolences to the family . Sending lots of love and healing prayers. May God heal all your hearts. ;-( Fly high Josiah ❤️ Zahra Khan
August 30, 2024
Todd, Janet, Andrew, and family,We are terribly saddened by the loss of Josiah. Please accept our condolences to the whole family.Josiah was kind, funny, helpful, understanding, and a joy to be around, both in person and online. We will always remember the hours spent talking, laughing, playing, and enjoying good food and weather with him.For Chris, Josiah was a true friend who was always there to talk, ever since the fourth grade. For Chris, Ben, Joseph, and Josh, Josiah was an irreplacable teammate, companion, and friend. We will miss him dearly.The Conrad family
August 30, 2024
Todd, Janet, and Andrew
We have been thinking of you ever since we learned of Josiah’s accident and death. As you know with your mother, Todd, those we love don’t go away; they live beside us every day.
Don and Elaine Brubaker
August 30, 2024
Good afternoon, I am Ginny Christophel’s cousin, she and I grew up together many years ago. I just heard about this and want to extend my deepest condolences to the entire family. I can totally understand the shock and pain you are all experiencing right now because I lost my 26-year-old grandson Daytin on October 27th, last year, in a motorcycle accident. Please know that your distant family members care very deeply about you and your loss. Sincerely, Joy Miller
August 30, 2024
Oh my heart is broken for the family, saying goodbye to a loved one, especially a beloved son or daughter, is built into us to be not accepted…….because we know deep in our hearts that goodbyes are not meant to be! When I read about his calmness and how he was able to spread peace and cheer to those around him , I thank God for his sweet spirit. Please, God, be near this family. Comfort, oh comfort your people….especially his dear mom and dad and brother. Send your peace that passes understanding, in Jesus name. Lynne Keller
August 30, 2024
Janet, Todd and Andrew,
We are so sorry. I’ll always remember little Josiah as our kids played; his cute smile and his quiet demeanor. There are no words that can really bring comfort for the loss of a son and a brother. Please know you are in my prayers daily and I will continue praying for you all. Please accept our condolences. Kevin & Jessi
August 30, 2024
I am deeply saddened by Josiah’s death. As his coworker, I didn’t know Josiah well, but I am grateful I knew him. He was engaging, dependable, and helpful. May the Lord be with you in the midst of this tragic loss.
Daniel
August 29, 2024
We will continue to lift you, Janet, and Andrew up in prayer as you walk through devastating journey. I never met Josiah, but he looks so kind and someone who would be a friend to many. May you experience a supernatural peace – that only God can give – over the next few days, months, and years ahead.
Mitch and Alli Swords
August 29, 2024
I knew Josiah mostly from my involvement with the music program at Warwick. He was a good guy. He was one of – if not the best – trumpet players I knew. I am remorseful that we never got to play together since. He will be remembered for his dry humor and ear-to-ear grin. I hope that every trumpet in the world will each embody a piece of Josiah’s legacy. Let us not forget the preciousness of life as we mourn the loss of this one so priceless, and I will continue to pray for you all as we share the burden of this loss together.
N
August 29, 2024
Andrew, Janet , and Todd…. words can not express our heartbreak with this news. Thoughts, and prayers are with you in comfort as you navigate your loss/grief. Josiah’s life should be celebrated…With sincere condolences,
Tanner(dear friend of Andrew), Olivia, Amy, & Shawn Weik-Weit
August 29, 2024
Janet and Family,
I am at a loss for words at this tragic loss. My heart goes out to you with Love and sympathy. Prayers for comfort peace and healing.
Mary L Zerbe
August 29, 2024
I’m deeply saddened to receive this terrible news. Anyone friends with Josiah admired his genuine personality and contagious laugh. I will treasure our many memories growing up in Lititz and at Warwick.
My heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones. Miss you man.
Parker Keares
August 29, 2024
Josiah had the most inquisitive mind. His morals were high, and he always wanted to form deeper connections other people. The world has truly lost a promising young man, and an even better person.
Allison Johnston
August 29, 2024
I had the pleasure of meeting Josiah at ARL when he was the lucky one to work on my laptop. He was quiet and respectful, so I was able to calm down and not get frustrated at the issues I was having. He explained eveyrthing he was doing and was so patient with me, I was amazed at his expertise and his demeanor, especially at such a young age. My thoughts and prayers to the family, as Josiah made a lasting impression professionally and he will be greatly missed.
Melanie
August 29, 2024
Hey Josiah! We never met in person, man, but you were an absolute rock star on the phone. I normally asked for you when I needed help on things. You were super locked in when we needed things done, and you always followed up to make sure things were kosher. I appreciate you.
You brought a degree of levity and fun to every effort we worked together on. I’m sorry I’ll never get to pay you back with that lunch I promised.
To the family– I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers.
Ian Ershen (PSU-ARL)
August 29, 2024
I remember very clearly the first time I met Josiah. I was frustrated with my work laptop melting down on a day with back-to-back meetings, and I came storming into the help desk office ready to make sure everyone knew it. Josiah took my ill temper in stride, treating me with kindess and a gentle smile despite my (very) visible irritation. His demeanor was contagious; his calm, steady presence helped me to relax and take a few much-needed deep breaths. Josiah quickly set me up with a loaner laptop and took the time later that day to make sure everything was working appropriately. For someone so young to exhibit such grace under pressure is rare, and I grew to learn over time that those foundational traits—patience, kindness, empathy, respect—were hallmarks of who he was. I am so profoundly sorry for your loss. Josiah will be deeply missed at ARL.
Molly M.
August 29, 2024
Josiah was sharp, effective, and good at his job. He helped many of us at ARL. My condolences to his family, friends, and loved ones.
J. L.
August 29, 2024
Josiah was a talented person and a pleasure to have known, if only briefly, through work. The ARL family mourns his passing.
Ethan
August 29, 2024
Hi Janet and Family,
I only knew Josiah from some of the family reunions, but he was certainly seemed a happy active teen in all respects. I can tell from all the other comments that he was well loved by many, including in Band and in Orchestra. I am praying for the entire family as they grieve and remember Josiah, as we all are.
Kurt
August 29, 2024
Todd and Janet I’m so sorry to hear about the death of your son. I’m holding you both in prayer. May God give you all that you need as you continue to deal with this great loss to you and your family.
Nancy Kauffmann
August 29, 2024
Although I only interacted with Josiah once at work, he left a positive impression on me with his kindness and patience. My heartfelt condolences go out to his family and loved ones during this difficult time. Rest in peace, Josiah
Terrell
August 29, 2024
I was deeply saddened to hear about Josiah’s passing. Although I didn’t know him very well, I will always remember his kindness, intelligence, and the admirable person he was. He made a lasting impression on those around him with his humility and compassion, and it’s clear that he touched many lives in his time here.
My heart goes out to your family during this difficult time. Please accept my heartfelt condolences. Josiah’s legacy will undoubtedly live on in the memories of those who knew him.
Amelia Brown
August 29, 2024
He was an absolute gift to ARL and will be greatly missed. Our condolences.
August 29, 2024
I am heartbroken by this news. So very very sorry.
Kathy Miller
August 29, 2024
Janet, Todd and Andrew – We are beyond devastated with Josiah’s passing. He was simply everything. Kind, funny, compassionate, loyal, smart… To know him was to love him. Cole was beyond blessed to have him as his best friend, and he was like a second big brother to Kendall. Our hearts are utterly broken for you. We are praying for you and will cherish our all-too-brief time with him forever. Please know that we are here for you and always will be. Love, the Penkunas family
August 29, 2024
Our hearts are breaking for you.
love,
Edgar & Liz Buckwalter
August 28, 2024
Gonna miss you man. You did so much for me. Ive got some ways to carry on your legacy dont worry.
August 28, 2024
A friend I remember being very close with in highschool. Our friendship may have been short, but I have only met few as humble, encouraging and understanding as Josiah. One of the few people to reach out to me years after graduating, and still just as kind as ever. No matter what anyone says, he was something you don’t always find. He was a good guy, with a good heart.
S
August 28, 2024
Todd, Janet, Andrew and family, we are very sad to hear about Josiah. Please receive our deepest condolences. We will always remember Josiah as a very positive, talented and amazing young man. We will miss him! We are here if you need anything.
Warm regards,
Rosa, Steve & Stephen Fetterman
August 28, 2024
Our Hearts break for your family. Josiah was such an amazing young man. Our prayers will be with you Todd, Janet and Andrew. We will be here for you in these coming days, weeks, and months ahead.
Scott and Tina Wanner and family
August 28, 2024
Josiah and I were never truly close.
He and I were in Show Choir together at WHS and he always tried his best to put his best foot forward and put in 120%, always. He was always kind, compassionate and I appreciate him for that.
Some folks here may have better, more specific memories of him, but I will always remember his kindness at heart.
Tay
- Visitation
- Monday, September 02, 2024
- 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
- Grace Church
- 501 W Lincoln Ave
- Lititz, PA 17543
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Get Maps and Directions > - Services
- Monday, September 02, 2024
- 11:00 AM
- Grace Church
- 501 W Lincoln Ave
- Lititz, PA 17543
- Map and Directions
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Get Maps and Directions >