Leona E. Oberholtzer, 83

April 01, 2024

Leona E. Oberholtzer, 83, of Lititz, passed away peacefully and surrounded by her husband and children on April 1, 2024, following a long battle with cancer. Born in Honey Brook, PA, she was the daughter of the late Jacob and Anna (Lapp) Zook. She was married over 63 years to her beloved husband, Leon H. Oberholtzer.

Leona was a 1958 graduate of Lancaster Mennonite School. She was a dedicated homemaker and a wonderful and supportive partner in ministry with Leon for 49 years at Mellinger Mennonite Church (PA), Trinity Mennonite Church (AZ), Steelton Mennonite Church (PA), and College Hill Mennonite Church (FL). Leon and Leona also spent a term of I-W Service in Colorado Springs, CO. Wherever Leona served, she was known for her joyful spirit, genuine kindness, and gracious compassion. She was an encourager and an inspiration to many.

Leona is affectionately remembered for her creativity and artistic talents. She loved music, had a beautiful singing voice, and played various instruments including organ, piano, and accordion. She enjoyed painting with watercolors and could craft whatever she set her mind to. She loved flowers. Her garden was always lovely, and she delighted in the many birds that found haven there. Her beautiful home was a place of welcome for anyone. She and Leon enjoyed traveling together throughout the United States and abroad.

A beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, she is survived by her husband, Leon, 4 children: Dawn Winey (Rich), Audrey Kreider (Jerry), Dean Oberholtzer (Justin Ang), and Andrea Brubaker (Bob); 10 grandchildren: Jordan (Alli), Karissa (Scott), Dane, Kirsten (Craig), Drew (Isabel), April, Alana (Braydan), Nick (Caroline), Mackenzie (Dylan), and Hunter (fiancé Elaina); 17 great-grandchildren; brother Elwood Zook (Linda), sister Mary Hess (Stan), and sister-in-law Lorraine Zook. She was predeceased by her brother, Grant Zook.

Leona’s family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Dr. Jaqueline Evans and the medical professionals who cared for her during her long journey with cancer. Your care, compassion, and dedication were truly noticed and appreciated.

Family and friends are invited to a visitation from 9-11 AM on Saturday, April 13, 2024, at Mellinger Mennonite Church, 1916 Lincoln Highway E, Lancaster, PA 17602. A service will begin at 11 AM. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations in Leona’s name to Mellinger Mennonite Church or Hospice & Community Care, 685 Good Drive, Box 4125, Lancaster, PA 17604.