Obituaries

William R. “Bill” Kirchner, 86

December 03, 2025

William R. “Bill” Kirchner, 86, of Lancaster, passed away on December 3, 2025. Born in Lancaster, he was the son of the late William and Freda (Kniesel) Kirchner and the husband of the late Mary L. (Coldren) Kirchner.

Bill retired in 2009 after 47 years as Security Director at the former Watt & Shand Department Store. He was an avid hunter, fisherman, and a skilled, prized winner in the game of Darts. He was a lifetime member of the Pequea Boat Club and hosted countless get-togethers for family and friends at the family cabin in Pequea. Bill was known for his charming smile, his many friendships throughout the Amish community, and his strong ties to the Strasburg and Quarryville areas. Above all, “Pap” valued family, and cherished his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, as well as his beloved grand-dogs.

He is survived by his children: Diane Pawson (John) of Pequea; Sharon Abel of Lancaster; Lori Brady (Michael); and William Kirchner III, both of Lancaster; along with 9 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great-grandchild. He was preceded in death by a grandson and his brother, Gerald “Fritz” Kirchner.

A Memorial Service will be held at 10 AM on Monday, December 15, 2025, at Charles F. Snyder III Funeral Home & Crematory, Willow Street, with visitation from 9–10 AM. Inurnment will follow in Conestoga Memorial Park. Contributions in Bill’s memory may be made to the Pet Pantry of Lancaster County.

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Condolences to the Family

December 28, 2025

So sorry to hear of your dad passing! I will always remember the good old days when your parents and mine (Ron & Barb Shetrompf) would get together to play cards and darts on Saturday nights many years ago. Bill was always so nice and would always make me laugh. My deepest sympathy to you all. I know it’s a difficult time as both of my parents are gone now too. Dad passed this year as well. Take care. Loree (Shetrompf) Strickler

December 16, 2025

We are so sorry to hear about your dad. We grew up alot at his house and loved his whole family. We knew Fritz and Fay and it seems like the whole family. It’s sad when you get old like me you get away from people. Our condolences go out to the whole family. Pat (HORN) Wickersham and Linda (HORN) Himelwright

December 14, 2025

Bill was already missed when he moved away months ago!! He was a great neighbor and we would talk of the old days of Lancaster City of which he knew so well! He held a very important seat in the Winter Hill Neighborhood and will be sorely missed by all that knew him!!
Wayne Kitch

December 11, 2025

We are sorry to hear of Bill’s passing. We sure did have some fun times on the Winter Hill Road neighborhood! Joni and Kraig Shirk, Colorado

December 09, 2025

I love you Pappy!
Sweetie

Visitation: Monday, December 15, 2025; 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM; Charles F. Snyder III Funeral Home & Crematory; 2421 Willow Street Pike; Willow Street , Pennsylvania 17584
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Services: Monday, December 15, 2025; 10:00 AM; Charles F. Snyder III Funeral Home & Crematory; 2421 Willow Street Pike; Willow Street, Pennsylvania 17584
Map and Directions: Get Maps and Directions >