Mary Ann Metzger, 86

February 07, 2024

Mary Ann Metzger, age 86, passed away surrounded by her family on February 7, 2024. Born in Philadelphia, she was the daughter of the late Rudolph and Elizabeth (Ritter) Kita, Sr. She was the beloved and devoted wife of the late Edward F. Metzger.

Mary Ann was known for her feisty spirit, wicked sense of humor, and complete and utter devotion to her family.

As a child, Mary Ann moved to Wildwood, New Jersey, where she developed life-long friendships, and met the love of her life. She spoke fondly of growing up at the shore in the 1950’s, playing basketball, cheerleading, and dancing in the school gym after lunch.

Mary Ann inspired us all with her fearlessness. As the wife of a 20-year Navy veteran, she didn’t hesitate to follow Edward abroad, even with four young children in tow. Their adventures led them to Iceland, Bermuda, Virginia, and back home to Pennsylvania. When her oldest son moved to Ireland, and her granddaughter studied abroad in Hungary, Mary Ann navigated international airports and flight changes by herself, and without hesitation. She would do anything and go anywhere to be with her family. Her fearlessness allowed her to face numerous health battles, including cancer, with a stubborn resilience. Challenges with her mobility could not keep her from the sidelines of her grandchildren’s sporting events. She was sure to be at every family celebration and momentous occasion.

Mary Ann was a devout Catholic. She found comfort in her faith and believed strongly in the power of prayer.

She was fiercely loved and will be remembered fondly by all who knew her.

She is survived by her favorite children: Christopher E. Metzger (husband of Nancy) of Kilkenny, Ireland, Donna L. Findley (wife of Dennis) of Willow Street, PA., Eric C. Metzger (husband of Anne) of Denver, PA., Elizabeth C. Hauk of Mount Joy, PA., and Michelle C. Henry (wife of Chad) of Lancaster, PA; her prized grandchildren: Erica Metzger (wife of Matthew Smith), Emily Sensenig (wife of Kurt), Danielle Findley, Makayla Metzger, Devyn Findley (fiance of Merek Hilliker), Ryan Metzger, Madison Henry, Lauren Metzger, Edward Hauk, and Colby Henry; her treasured great grandson Atlas Smith; two brothers: Richard Kita (husband of Barbara) of Manheim, PA. and Robert Kita (husband of Victoria) of St. Augustine, FL., one sister in law and best friend Helen Kita of Wildwood, NJ. and numerous cherished nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents and husband, Mary Ann is preceded in death by her brother, Rudolph Kita, Jr., and her beloved nephew Jeffrey A. Kita.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Thursday, February 15, 2024, at St. Philip the Apostle Catholic Church, 2111 Millersville Pike, Lancaster, PA 17603 at 11am with a viewing one hour prior. Burial will take place on Friday, February 16, 2024, at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery, 60 Indiantown Gap Rd, Annville, PA 17003 at 10:30am.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Covenant House Pennsylvania, an organization that assists youth experiencing homelessness throughout Pennsylvania.

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