Obituaries

Nelson R. Gingrich, 60

February 06, 2016

Nelson R. Gingrich, 60, of Manheim, died Saturday, February 6, 2016, at Hospice & Community Care, Mount Joy, following a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer over a 4-1/2 yr. period. He was born to John Musser Gingrich of Woodcrest Villa and the late Blanche Kreider Gingrich. Nelson was the devoted husband of Yvonne Bomberger Gingrich for 37 years.

A graduate of LMHS, Nelson drove tractor trailer most recently for UPS in Harrisburg. His driving skills were fine tuned while also working at Snavely’s in Landisville, Sauder’s Eggs in Lititz and Carlos R. Leffler’s in Richland, over a 38 yr. span. Nelson enjoyed participating in state & national truck competitions having won many class trophies. His expertise was well established.

Nelson poured a lot of life into a short amount of time. His positive optimism & warm contagious smile drew others into his circle.

He loved the outdoors, boating and watersports. He was an avid slalom skier. Family trips to the Eastern seacoast & the Outer Banks were cherished.

He was a member of LEFC, Lititz, where he was a sunday school teacher and actively involved in an ABF class. His personalized faith was shared with many persons he met.

In addition to his wife Yvonne and father John, Nelson is survived by three children: Ange, wife of Sheldon Horst, Julie, wife of Jeremy Horst and Randy Gingrich, husband of Amy (Zimmerman ); his granddaughter Isabella Horst; and six siblings: Donald Gingrich, husband of Esther, Ann, wife of Richard Martin, David Gingrich, husband of Marian, Ken Gingrich, Sharon, wife of Fred Umble, and Beverly, wife of Larry Kerry.

Following Nelson’s wishes, his body was donated to science. A Life celebration will be held at Lancaster Evangelical Free Church in Lititz on March 19th at 2 PM. Please feel free to read Nelson’s writings at www.caringbridge.org/visit/nelsongingrich where you can also place a condolence to the family.

Memorial Contributions may be made to Hope for Healing Fund; attention Megan Weber, Penn State Hershey, Office of University Development, 90 Hope Drive, A 120,Hershey, PA 17033.

Leave a condolence on this Memorial Page

Condolences to the Family

March 18, 2016

Dear Gingrich Family,
As a former participant in the PA Truck Driving Championships, I can assure you that Nelson will be dearly missed. He was truly a leader in setting an example of what it is to be a person of integrity and professionalism in the trucking industry. As a rookie in the early 90’s , I remember Nelson as one of the veteran competitors who exemplified the meaning of true sportsmanship above all else. He, and his wonderful family, demonstrated their Christian beliefs by consistently placing others ahead of themselves. I speak for so many in saying; “Thank you Lord for the opportunity to cross paths with Nelson and the Gingrich family. We are forever blessed with the memories.” God Bless, Jim March

February 15, 2016

Dearest family of Nelson,
How I enjoyed seeing Nelson during his treatments. His faith and hope in Jesus Christ radiated from his words and behavior. He was an inspiration and encouragement and I gleaned life lessons from just speaking with him. Blessings as you grieve and remember the joyous times! Thank you Jesus that we will meet again!! Crystal @ HHS

February 15, 2016

To the family,
As a resident at Woodcrest Villa I would like to offer my condolences to the family. I knew Nelson when I met him as a driver for the facility. He was such a gentleman and I had no idea that he was fighting such a terrible disease. I tried to get on to read his writings, but was not successful. Please accept my condolences to all of you at this sad time. My prayers will be with you.
Peggy J. Hanzelman

Services: Saturday, March 19, 2016; 2:00 PM; Lancaster Evangelical Free Church; 419 Pierson Rd; Lititz, PA
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