Russell Walter Witmer, Jr.

YORK- Russell W. Witmer, Jr., 80, died on Saturday, December 5, 2009 at York Hospital. He was the loving husband of Ruth N. (Faron) Witmer. The couple would have celebrated their 31st wedding anniversary this month. At the convenience of the family, services will be private. Heffner Funeral Chapel & Crematory, 1551 Kenneth Rd., York, is in charge of arrangements. Mr. Witmer was born on September 12, 1929 in Windsor, a son of the late Russell W. & Hazel A. (Knisely) Witmer, Sr. Russell worked as a butcher and grocer for Witmer's Meat Market. Mr. Witmer attended the Senior Center in Red Lion. He enjoyed fishing and bowling. He was known as Mr. fix it, delivery man, and driver for the Springwood Overlook Residence. Along with his wife Ruth, Mr. Witmer is survived by two sons, Thomas Witmer and his wife, Lois of Knoxville, TN and Walter "Shorty" Witmer and his wife, Colleen of Plano, TX; one step son, Gary M. Hayes and his wife, Paula of York; one daughter, Susan Basile and her husband, Gregg of York; six grandchildren, Allison Davis and her husband, Billy, Brent Witmer and his wife, Leah, Makenzie Basile, Nicolas Basile, Eleena Basile, and A.J. Basile; two step grandchildren, Alexi and Alissa; five great grandchildren, Hunter Witmer, Laci Witmer, Hailey Davis, Connor Davis and Hannah Davis; two brothers, Robert Witmer and his late wife, Janet of York and Donald Witmer and his wife Mary Gail of Dover; a sister in law, Dalah; and former wife, Ethel Frey Bankert. Preceding him in death was a son, David Witmer; and a brother Glen Witmer. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Springwood Chapel, 2360 Springwood Rd., York, PA 17402.