Fred W. Groff

Fred W. Groff, 87, of Hummelstown passed away Tuesday, April 9, 2019 in the Hershey Medical Center.

 Born March 9, 1932 in Ephrata, he was the son of the late Christian R. and Elizabeth (Hicks) Groff and was preceded in death by his sister Eleanor Fellows.

A 1949 graduate of East Lampeter High School and 1953 graduate of Millersville College, Fred then served in the U. S. Army from 1953 – 1955.   Following his marriage to Erika Holz in 1954, he attended Bethany Bible Seminary and graduated in 1960 from Lancaster Theological Seminary after which his pastorates included Hollidaysburg, Evansville, Indiana and Winchester, Virginia.  He later worked at Quaker Oats Company and most recently was a self-employed landlord. 

Fred’s interests included reading, religious discussions, listening to religious philosophical lectures, singing Perry Como songs and bird watching.  When able, he enjoyed flying, owning two airplanes and a paraplane.  His most enjoyment came from his grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Surviving are his wife of 64 years Erika H. (Holz) Groff; sons Steven F. Groff of Hummelstown and Alex W., husband of Monika Groff of Lebanon; grandchildren Andrew Groff (married to Samantha Groff), Rachel Groff, Martin Groff (married to Ashlin Groff), Peter Groff; and great grandchildren Amirah and Josiah Groff.

A funeral service will be held 2:00 PM Saturday, April 13th at Hanoverdale Church of the Brethren, 577 Hershey Road, Hummelstown preceded by a viewing beginning at 1:00 PM.  Interment in Hanoverdale Cemetery. 

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Brethren Housing Association, 219 Hummel Street, Harrisburg, PA 17104 or a charity of the donor’s choice.

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