March 15 1936 July 24 2022
James M. Holtzinger, Sr., of Wrightsville, 86, died on Sunday, July 24, 2022 at home. Born March 15, 1936, he was the son of the late Charles and Geraldine Harmon. Jim was a lifelong Wrightsville resident who was proud of his strong hometown roots. He knew and befriended many in the community, acting as somewhat of an honorary mayor of his beloved borough, waving at passerby and stopping to talk to friends new and old in his many travels. Always a character, waitresses at his regular spots knew him by name, welcoming him in much the same way as the actors on “Cheers.” He attended Eastern York High School. Following high school, Jim served proudly as a U.S. Marine. Jim worked for many years at the former ITT Grinnell factory in Columbia as a core maker. He also worked many odd jobs throughout his life. Jim relished the opportunity to enjoy good food and company and loved supporting his community. A longtime patron of Wrightsville Fire Company’s annual chicken dinner fundraiser, Jim was known to regularly take chicken dinners to anyone who would enjoy them, including his ex-wife, Lillian Hoffer, whom he shared four children with. She preceded him in death. Jim is survived by three children, Cora Rowe of Wrightsville; John C. Holtzinger of Wrightsville; and Joel S. Holtzinger of Springettsbury Township; a sister, Jane Harmon; a long-time friend, Norma Hilt; and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. His oldest son, James M. “Jamie” Holtzinger Jr.; and brothers, Donald Holtzinger and Paul J. Kauffman preceded him in death. He enjoyed driving around his hometown and traveling to farmers markets for whoopie pies and other treats. Jim loved fast cars, especially Ford Mustangs. Watching the Pittsburgh Steelers and Philadelphia Phillies games, playing cards and vacationing in the Outer Banks, N.C., were among his favorite pastimes. Jim loved animals and had a special soft spot for dogs. When, in his early 80s, Jim had to give up driving, he was known to walk the two miles from the home he shared with his daughter, Cora, to Jim Mack’s Ice Cream for his favorite, an extra-thick chocolate milkshake. He was happiest when he was moving, whether riding a stationary bike, walking around town, or lifting weights while watching TV at home. A stoic man through and through, Jim never let obstacles get in the way of achieving his goals. Even after suffering a stroke some years ago, Jim continued his quest to help others – against doctor’s orders – regularly mowing lawns for friends in Wrightsville and shoveling snow in winter months. Family will hold a private remembrance service for Jim at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider contributing to the SPCA in Jim’s honor. Arrangements by the Etzweiler Funeral Homes and Cremation Service, 700 Hellam Street, Wrightsville, PA 17368.
Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of James Holtzinger Sr March 15 1936 July 24 2022.
Death notice for the town of: York, state: Pennsylvania