Minnich Funeral Home Obituaries

Introduction to Minnich Funeral Home

Minnich Funeral Home, located at 415 East Wilson Boulevard, Hagerstown, MD, 21740, has been a trusted and compassionate provider of funeral services to the local community for many years. With a long history of serving families in their time of need, Minnich Funeral Home has established itself as a beacon of comfort and support during life's most difficult moments.

A Legacy of Compassionate Care

The team at Minnich Funeral Home is dedicated to providing exceptional care and guidance to families as they navigate the process of saying goodbye to a loved one. With a deep understanding of the emotional toll that loss can take, the funeral home's staff is committed to creating personalized and meaningful ceremonies that celebrate the life and legacy of the deceased.

Funeral Obiturary Search

Explore our extensive database to find and remember the lives of loved ones through millions of heartfelt obituaries

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Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

William (Jack) Ernest Bruchey - February 09, 1933 - February 14, 2021

Departed: 02/14/2021 (Hagerstown)

Obituary Preview: William “Jack” Bruchey, 88, of Parkersburg, WV, formerly of Hagerstown, MD and Falling Waters, WV, passed away on Sunday, February 14, 2021 at Berkeley Medical Center in Martinsburg, WV.

He was born February 9, 1933 in Frederick, MD, and was the son of the late Laurence Gooden and Hilda Blanche (Berry) Bruchey.

Jack served in the US Army during the Korean War. He worked as a machinist all his life. He had worked for Victor Products and Fairchild Aircraft both in Hagerstown, MD, and retired from Rust-Oleum in Williamsport, MD.

He had been active with the Moose, Elks, Redmen and American Legion while living in Hagerstown. Jack was an avid sports fan, enjoyed bowling, playing basketball, fastpitch softball and watching NASCAR.

He was a member of Stout Memorial United Methodist Church in Parkersburg, WV.

Jack is survived by his sister, Patty Ann Fishel; nieces and nephews, Cindy Boggs and husband, Dean, Candy Lee and husband, Glenn, Robert Bruchey II and wife, Susan, Randy Rowland and wife, Debbie, Peggy Hess, Sharon Rowland, John Rowland, Krista Runyon Rowland; eighteen great nieces and nephews; several great great nieces and nephews; sister-in-law, Patricia Bruchey; and close friend Mary Kay Blank.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Norma “Jean” (Holbert) Bruchey, sister, Evelyn Rowland, brother, Robert “Bob” Bruchey I, and nephew, Jack Rowland.

The funeral service will be held at 1:30 pm on Saturday, February 20, 2021, with Rev. Randall Reid officiating, at Minnich Funeral Home, 415 E. Wilson Blvd., Hagerstown, MD. Burial will be in Cedar Lawn Memorial Park with military honors provided by the Joint Veterans Council and Marine League of Hagerstown.

The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 6 to 8 pm Friday, February 19, 2021.

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Elsie Evelyn Flook - January 23, 1927 - February 13, 2021

Departed: 02/13/2021 (Hagerstown)

Obituary Preview: Elsie Evelyn (Griffith) Flook, 94, of Hagerstown, MD, passed away on Saturday, February 13, 2021 at Julia Manor Healthcare Center. Her husband, Clarence A. Flook, passed away on November 16, 2020.

Born January 23, 1927 in Keedysville, MD, she was the daughter of the late James A. and Anna May (Springer) Griffith.

Elsie was a member of Boonsboro Family Worship Center. She was a homemaker, a devoted wife of 75 years, and mother of eight children. She is the last surviving member of her family.

Elsie is survived by four daughters, Juanita E. Cline (Husband, Eddie), Patsy A. Kline (Husband, Dean), Rebecca J. Mills (Husband Lloyd) and Esther A. Schroyer (Husband, David); two sons, Clarence D. Flook (wife, Debra) and Daniel W. Flook; 13 grandchildren; 32 great grandchildren; 11 great-great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to her husband and parents, Elsie was preceded in death by one son and one daughter, both of whom died at birth; seven sisters, Martha Guessford, Mary Powell, Nellie Griffith, Pauline Ecker, Margaret Martz, Della Long, and Helen Easterday; and four brothers, Albert Griffith, Elmer Griffith, Howard Griffith, and Silas Griffith.

The funeral service will be held 10am on Saturday, February 20, 2021, at Minnich Funeral Home, 415 E. Wilson Blvd., Hagerstown, MD, with Pastor Jeff Summers officiating. Masks and social distancing are required. Burial will be in Boonsboro Cemetery.

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Robert Orville Bitner - August 30, 1928 - February 12, 2021

Departed: 02/12/2021 (Hagerstown)

Obituary Preview: Robert “Bob” Orville Bitner, 92, of Mechanicsburg, PA, passed away Friday, February 12, 2021, at Messiah Lifeways at Messiah Village Nursing Care in Mechanicsburg.

Born August 30, 1928 in Hagerstown, MD, he was the son of the late Orville Riley and Mabel Rebecca (Kuhn) Bitner. Bob’s parents not only brought him into the world, but they instilled in him a love for the Lord Jesus Christ and for the Word of God. Church attendance, Bible conferences, Christian boys camp, Vacation Bible school, home Bible studies, gospel radio broadcasting, entertaining visiting Christian workers, and ministry in rural areas were all key components of his family life.

Bob traveled with his salesman father until he was twelve, seeing significant parts of Maryland, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia. He learned the business world in his dad’s insurance agency. After High School, he was accepted at Houghton College in western New York.

The summer before college, he made a commitment to foreign missionary service at a Bible conference in Ontario, Canada. At college he met Nona Merkel, RN who had known since a teenager she was called to be a missionary nurse. They were engaged after his graduation and Nona completed her university training while Bob attended Dallas Theological Seminary. She joined him in Dallas after their wedding. During this time, their first two children were born, and they asked others to pray for guidance for their future.

By 1955, the couple was accepted by Unevangelized Fields Mission, now called CrossWorld, and by January 1956, they were sailing for Haiti. They joyfully served for 20 years in nursing and mission administration, Bible teaching, and mission-church relationships. Their last two sons were born in Haiti, and all of their children have served the Lord in various overseas ministries.

In 1976, they returned to care for elderly parents and Bob worked in the family insurance agency. When Haitian refugees flooded the area, the couple became involved in translation, migrant health clinics, and migrant ministry. Bob was preceded in death by his wife, Nona Irene (Merkel) Bitner, in 2002.

In 2003, Bob married Nona’s friend and his college classmate Ruth Winger, who introduced him to Messiah Village. His second wife, Ruth (Winger) Bitner passed away two days before their second anniversary.

In 2006, he married Helen Lewis, another Houghton College acquaintance. They were married in the Chinese Christian Church of Mishawaka, Indiana, a church Helen had helped to found.

In addition to his parents, and his first and second wives, Bob was preceded in death by one sister, Miriam Henry.

In addition to his third wife, P. Helen (Lewis) Bitner, he is survived by one daughter, Becky A. Hartt; three sons, David R. Bitner, Paul D. Bitner, and Peter S. Bitner; one sister, Lois (Bitner) Tamkin; 12 grandchildren; and 20 great grandchildren.

Burial will be private.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.

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Linda Louise Caudell - July 14, 1948 - February 11, 2021

Departed: 02/11/2021 (Hagerstown)

Obituary Preview: Linda Louise Caudell, 72, of Hagerstown, MD, passed away on Thursday, February 11, 2021. She was born on July 14, 1948 in Hagerstown to the late James Caudell and Jane Eavey Caudell.

Linda worked for forty years as an insurance agent. She was a longtime member of the Hagerstown's Morris Frock Unit #42, American Legion Auxiliary, Department of Maryland, Inc. She served in many positions in the local unit, including as past Unit President. She was a past District President of the Western Maryland District, past Department President of the Department of Maryland, as well as past Department Secretary, and past Eastern Division Vice President of the National American Legion Auxiliary. She served on many committees and other leadership positions over the years.

She is survived by her brothers, James K. Caudell and Richard Caudell, her nephews, Todd and Chris, her nieces, Kassandra, Haley, Melissa, and Crystal, her cousins, Pastor Rebecca Neuman, Don Wolford, Christine, and Mooneyne, as well as many great-nieces and great-nephews.

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Sondalee "Sandi" Shingleton - December 28, 1942 - February 11, 2021

Departed: 02/11/2021 (Hagerstown)

Obituary Preview: Sondalee "Sandi" Shingleton, 78, of Hagerstown, passed away Thursday, February 11, 2021, at Meritus Medical Center.

Born December 28, 1942 in Big Pool, MD, she was the daughter of the late Theodore Roosevelt Murray, Sr. and Mary Elizabeth (Hill) Murray.

She was the owner and operator of Sandi’s Hair Studio in Hagerstown for many years.

She is survived by one daughter, April Danner; one granddaughter, Sarah May; one sister, Kathleen Murray Delazio; two sisters-in-law, Elenora Murray and Lucille Bitner Murray; and nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, Sandi was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Shingleton; two sisters, Willa Jean Murray Vaters and Roselyne Murray Phillips; and two brothers, Theodore R. Murray, Jr. and Wayson A. Murray, Sr.

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Sondalee (Sandi) Shingleton - December 28, 1942 - February 11, 2021

Departed: 02/11/2021 (Hagerstown)

Obituary Preview: Sondalee “Sandi” Shingleton, 78, of Hagerstown, passed away Thursday, February 11, 2021, at Meritus Medical Center.

Born December 28, 1942 in Big Pool, MD, she was the daughter of the late Theodore Roosevelt Murray, Sr. and Mary Elizabeth (Hill) Murray.

She was the owner and operator of Sandi’s Hair Studio in Hagerstown for many years.

She is survived by one daughter, April Danner; one granddaughter, Sarah May; one sister, Kathleen Murray Delazio; two sisters-in-law, Elenora Murray and Lucille Bitner Murray; and nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, Sandi was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Shingleton; two sisters, Willa Jean Murray Vaters and Roselyne Murray Phillips; and two brothers, Theodore R. Murray, Jr. and Wayson A. Murray, Sr.

Graveside services will be held 10:30AM Wednesday, February 17, 2021 at Cedar Lawn Memorial Park. Rev. Robert Robinson will officiate.

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Charles Prescott Berry - February 11, 1943 - January 20, 2019

Departed: 01/20/2019 (Hagerstown)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Charles Prescott Berry.

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Jacqueline Ann Thomas - June 12, 1951 - October 17, 2017

Departed: 10/17/2017 (Hagerstown)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Jacqueline Ann Thomas.

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A Wide Range of Funeral Services

Minnich Funeral Home offers a comprehensive range of funeral services designed to meet the unique needs and preferences of each family they serve. From traditional funeral ceremonies to cremation services, memorial gatherings, and graveside rites, the funeral home's experienced staff will work closely with you to create a customized plan that honors your loved one's memory.

Personalized Funeral Planning

At Minnich Funeral Home, every family is treated with dignity and respect. The funeral home's experienced planners will take the time to listen to your stories, share your memories, and understand your wishes. They will then use this information to craft a personalized funeral service that reflects the personality, interests, and accomplishments of your loved one.

Facilities and Amenities

Minnich Funeral Home's facilities are designed to provide a comfortable and serene environment for families to gather and pay their respects. The funeral home features spacious visitation rooms, a chapel for services, and ample parking for guests. Additionally, the facility is equipped with state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment, ensuring that music, videos, and other multimedia elements can be seamlessly integrated into the service.

Cremation Services

Minnich Funeral Home understands that cremation is an increasingly popular choice for many families. As such, they offer a range of cremation options, including direct cremation, cremation with a memorial service, and traditional funeral services followed by cremation. The funeral home's staff will guide you through the process, ensuring that your wishes are respected and your loved one is treated with dignity.

Pre-Planning and Advanced Planning

Minnich Funeral Home encourages families to consider pre-planning their funeral arrangements. By doing so, you can ensure that your wishes are respected, alleviate the burden on your loved ones, and lock in costs at today's prices. The funeral home's experienced staff will work with you to create a customized plan that meets your needs and budget.

Community Involvement and Support

Minnich Funeral Home is deeply committed to giving back to the local community. Through various outreach programs, charitable initiatives, and educational seminars, the funeral home demonstrates its dedication to supporting those who have experienced loss. From grief support groups to community events, Minnich Funeral Home is a trusted partner in times of need.

Why Choose Minnich Funeral Home?

In a world where compassion and empathy are essential, Minnich Funeral Home stands out as a beacon of hope and support. By choosing Minnich Funeral Home, you can trust that you will receive exceptional care, guidance, and support during one of life's most difficult moments. With their commitment to personalized service, attention to detail, and community involvement, Minnich Funeral Home is the perfect choice for families seeking a trusted partner in their time of need.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an obituary?

An obituary is a written notice that announces the death of a person, typically including their name, age, date of birth and death, and a brief biography. It's usually published in a newspaper, online obituary platform, or funeral home website to inform friends, family, and community members of the passing.

Why are obituaries important?

Obituaries serve as a way to honor and remember the deceased, while also providing essential information to those who need to know about the passing. They can help notify people of funeral services, memorial events, and other important details.

Who writes an obituary?

Typically, the family of the deceased or a close friend writes the obituary. Funeral homes or crematories may also assist in writing or publishing the obituary.

What information should be included in an obituary?

A typical obituary includes the deceased person's full name, age, date of birth and death, place of residence, occupation, education, hobbies, achievements, and surviving family members. It may also include funeral service details, charitable donation information, and other relevant data.

How long does it take to write an obituary?

The time it takes to write an obituary varies depending on the complexity and length of the piece. On average, it can take anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours to write a well-crafted obituary.

Can I include photos in an obituary?

Yes, many online obituary platforms and funeral homes allow you to upload photos of the deceased to accompany the written obituary. This can help personalize the tribute and make it more engaging for readers.

How do I submit an obituary to a newspaper?

Contact the newspaper's obituary department directly to inquire about their submission process and any specific requirements they may have. Some newspapers may accept online submissions, while others may require email or phone submissions.

Is there a cost associated with publishing an obituary?

The cost of publishing an obituary varies depending on the publication and its policies. Some newspapers charge by the word or line, while others offer package deals or free listings. Online obituary platforms often offer free or low-cost options.

Can I edit an obituary after it's been published?

In most cases, it's possible to make minor corrections or updates to an obituary after it's been published. However, significant changes may not be allowed once the obituary has gone to print or been posted online.

How long does an online obituary remain available?

The duration an online obituary remains available varies depending on the platform or website. Some websites keep obituaries archived indefinitely, while others may remove them after a certain period.

Can I share an obituary on social media?

Yes, many online obituary platforms provide easy sharing options for social media sites like Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn. This allows you to quickly notify friends and family about the passing.

What is a death notice?

A death notice is a brief announcement of someone's passing, often including only basic information such as name, age, and date of death. It's typically shorter than a full obituary.

What is the difference between an obituary and a eulogy?

An obituary is a written notice announcing someone's passing, while a eulogy is a speech or written tribute delivered at a funeral or memorial service to celebrate the person's life.

Can I include humor in an obituary?

Yes, many people choose to include humorous anecdotes or personality traits in an obituary to make it more personal and reflective of the deceased person's character.

How do I handle sensitive information in an obituary?

If you're unsure about including sensitive information such as cause of death or personal struggles, consider consulting with family members or close friends before publishing the obituary.

Can I write my own obituary?

Yes, some people choose to write their own obituaries in advance as part of their estate planning or as a way to reflect on their life accomplishments.

What if I don't have much information about the deceased?

If you're struggling to gather information about the deceased, consider reaching out to family members, friends, or former colleagues who may be able to provide valuable insights and details.

Can I include quotes or lyrics in an obituary?

Yes, many people choose to include meaningful quotes, song lyrics, or poems in an obituary to add depth and personality to the tribute.

How do I ensure accuracy in an obituary?