Obituaries
Kari Jo Denlinger, 39
October 31, 2025
Kari Jo Denlinger, 39, passed away into the arms of Jesus with her family by her side. Born in Lancaster, she was the precious daughter of Ron and Joan (Weaver) Denlinger.
Kari was the longest known living survivor of a rare genetic disorder, RARS2. Kari was lovingly cared for by her parents her entire life. She was a wonderful big sister to her brothers.
Kari was a most persevering, patient, and selfless person. Part of a missionary family, she travelled many miles across the US, influencing many people to trust Jesus. Her family authored a book, “Joy in a Foreign Land,” to tell her story – joyinaforeignland.com.
Kari worshipped with her family at Calvary Church and was a valued member of the Shepherds class.
In addition to her parents Ron and Joan, Kari’s family includes her brother Jeremy Denlinger, husband of Sarah, and their children, Elia and Lucy Denlinger, her brother Matthew Denlinger, and her maternal grandfather Joseph Weaver, husband of the late Pauline (Burkholder), all of Lancaster. Kari was preceded in death by brother Ryan Denlinger and her paternal grandparents, Roy and Elverta (Groff) Denlinger.
A viewing will take place 9:30 to 10:45 am, followed by the funeral at 11:00 am on Friday, November 7, 2025, at Calvary Church, 1051 Landis Valley Road, Lancaster, PA 17601. Interment will be in Paradise Mennonite Cemetery on Friday at 2:30 PM.
In lieu of flowers, kindly consider a contribution in Kari’s memory to the Clinic for Special Children, 20 Community Lane, Gordonville, PA 17529
Clinic for Special Children
or Joni&friends, 340 Highland Drive, Suite 200, Mountville, PA 17554.
Joni&friends
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Condolences to the Family
December 20, 2025
I just learn today of Kari’s homegoing. Needless to say I am crushed by the news, and joyful her ministry isover, and she is with her brother, and his red tricycle (Kirsten insists to this fay it is red) I prayed for the God of all comfort to comfortb you both. I see you’ve written three biiks, winderful! I need to read them. Mike for Linda and myself.
November 04, 2025
So sorry for your great loss of dear Kari. What a dear young lady. So glad we met her and your family. Can’t wait to see her and our Kevin in perfect health and body in Heaven.
Marilyn Barto and Don
November 04, 2025
Dear Joan, Ron & Family;
We don’t see you often, but you are constantly in our thoughts and prayers. We are sad for your loss. With Love, Lee and Sherri Brown
November 04, 2025
I have known Kari most of my life and I am so thankful that my kids were able to know her, too. She brought joy and kindled love in people. Kari was a gift and we mourn her loss even as we rejoice in the years God gave her to bless and enjoy her family and community. Elizabeth Vaughn Do
November 03, 2025
Ron and Joan and family: How we loved Kari. She was a gem. IS a gem, now polished and whole in the arms of Jesus now that her time of ministry to you and others is over. You will miss her, but you will, in due time, run with Kari and speak with her and enjoy her Master and yours, together. Thanks for your constant, selfless love for her. Our daughter just wrote to us about your ministry to Kari. She wrote, “they are my heroes.” My heart is full. Rob Vaughn, Quakertown, PA
November 03, 2025
I am sad to hear that Kari passed away, but she is home with Jesus and is healed. I miss seeing your family on Sundays. My condolences to your whole family. Cindy Mercer
November 03, 2025
Dear Ron & Joan
I read the obituary today about your daughter. She is in the arms of Jesus. I am sure you will miss her.
My sympathy is with you. It has been a long time since I have seen or spoken with you but I still remember you…
Sincerely
Alma Groff
- Visitation
- Friday, November 07, 2025
- 9:30 AM - 10:45 AM
- Calvary Church
- 1051 Landis Valley Road
- Lancaster, Pennsylvania 17601
- Map and Directions
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Get Maps and Directions > - Services
- Friday, November 07, 2025
- 11:00 AM
- Calvary Church
- 1051 Landis Valley Road
- Lancaster, Pennsylvania 17601
- Map and Directions
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