Obituaries
Thomas George Gollatz, 81
February 02, 2024
Thomas George Gollatz, 81, of East Petersburg, PA, passed away peacefully on Friday, February 2nd, 2024 at his home. He was born in Portsmouth, VA to the late Karl A. and Kathlene V. (Keller) Gollatz.
Tom was a proud veteran of the U.S. Navy, serving from 1960 to 1963. After serving in the Navy, he had a long and successful career, first, in appliance repair at Sears, and then as a manager at Sears Automotive for more than 45 years. He was loyal, hardworking, and enjoyed mentoring his staff and serving his customers.
Tom was an avid NASCAR enthusiast, outdoorsman, hunter, and deep sea fisherman. He was a member of the American Legion Post 34, Germania Band of Manheim, and the Elstonville Sportsman Association.
Tom is survived by his brother James R. Gollatz and his wife Vivien of Allentown; his brother William D. Gollatz and his wife, Kathy of Millersville; his sister Alice Simmons and her husband Tom of Glen Rock; his sister Mariana Rivera of Oakland, CA; and his sister Jane E Boyer of Hershey. He is also survived by many loving nieces and nephews.
Tom will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him. He was a devoted serviceman, uncle, loving son, and friend. Most of all, he was the perpetual big brother, with the intuition and sensitivity to care for and love others. Despite his hardships, he navigated life with stoic beauty.
Friends will be received by Tom’s family on Monday, February 12, 2024 at the Charles F. Snyder Jr. Funeral Home & Crematory, 3110 Lititz Pike, Lititz, PA from 9:30-10:30AM, with the Memorial Service to follow at 10:30AM. Interment will follow in Greenwood Cemetery.
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Condolences to the Family
February 13, 2024
So sad to hear this news.
I was fortunate to meet Tom and have great conversations and moments with him.
He was a beautiful spirit and an amazing person.
May he rest in peace.
My condolences to his family.
Tracy
February 12, 2024
A friend forever
Donald (frog) and Krissy (little monkey)
February 12, 2024
My true friend and Brother. You always be in my heart. JR.
February 12, 2024
I express my deepest sympathy! I knew Tom from both of us working at Sears. I enjoyed our conversations. If I remember correctly he would target shoot at a distance of 500 yards. I pray that the Lord will comfort you and hold you tightly into His arms!
Rick Harnish
February 10, 2024
We will miss Tom! We got to know him several years ago after asking to borrow his wood splitter–he was so concerned about our safety. We’d have a few opportunities to chat through the year and now I wish I’d been more intentional in reaching out more frequently. Praying he is in Glory! 🤍 Our thoughts are with his family!
February 09, 2024
To the entire Gollatz family,
John and I want to extend our sincerest sympathy in the death of Tom. Although we didn’t know him personally, we know Bill and Kathy and want to offer our thoughts and prayers during your time of grief.
Most sincerely.
John and Nancy Straw
February 09, 2024
My thoughts and prayers to all the friends and family of Tom. He was a lovely man that will be deeply missed.
Megan
February 08, 2024
Uncle Tom, I love you and you will be surely be missed. You got me the same thing every year for Christmas: a bottle of Old Spice. It was only last month I finally caved and started wearing it. Thank you. You were always kind, respectful, and could end every disagreement with a handshake. I’m comforted knowing that you were packed and ready to go when the time came. While we are grieving a loss here on earth, I know the Holy Spirit is alive within you. Your life is worthy of celebration, and I know heaven rejoices to receive you.
Shawn Gollatz
- Visitation
- Monday, February 12, 2024
- 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM
- Charles F. Snyder Funeral Home & Crematory
- 3110 Lititz Pike
- Lititz, PA 17543
- Map and Directions
-
Get Maps and Directions > - Services
- Monday, February 12, 2024
- 10:30 AM
- Charles F. Snyder Funeral Home & Crematory
- 3110 Lititz Pike
- Lititz, PA 17543
- Map and Directions
-
Get Maps and Directions >
