A. Ronald "Skip" Hetrich

A. Ronald “Skip” Hetrich, 86, formerly of Manheim and Mount Gretna, passed away peacefully at Cornwall Manor on Saturday, October 19, 2024. Born in Manheim, he was the son of the late Arthur H. and Miriam Stoner Hetrich. He was the loving husband of the late Katherine H. “Kay” Haug Hetrich who passed in 2017. 

A naturally gifted engineer, Skip enjoyed using his mind and his hands to solve problems, whether keeping up with everyday household repairs, handcrafting custom furniture to meet that special need, or creating a novel solution to a vexing challenge at work. Retired in 2000, Skip used those talents well as vice-president of manufacturing operations for Fenner Drives, Manheim, and in his earlier years as a mechanical engineer for the former Raymark Industries. He holds patents for several inventions developed over the course of his career.

Skip was deeply committed to his family, friends, and community, and together with his wife Kay, to support of the arts and education. He served on the Manheim Borough Council; Manheim Park, Pool, and Recreation Committee; Danner Home Board; Manheim Library Board; and as a member of the Jaycees and supporter the Manheim Historical Society. In Mount Gretna he volunteered for many years with the Mount Gretna Chataqua programs, especially Mount Gretna music and theater productions and the Mount Gretna Art Show. Aiming to honor and preserve the glass blowing heritage of Manheim, Skip was a driving force behind the creation and development of the non-profit organization Stiegel Glassworks 1976; he was a founder, board member, and major contributor to the Glassworks operation. 

His cheerful disposition and easygoing nature made Skip a dear friend to many. His optimism, can-do attitude, and eagerness to help had a way of making work projects seem like fun. And his giving heart, attentive listening, and sage advice often comforted and guided those in need. Skip’s presence in the lives of all who knew him will be sorely missed.

Surviving Skip are his two sons, Mitchell H. husband of Trudy Hetrich of Greenville PA, and Mark H. husband of Christine Hetrich of Mount Gretna; his daughter, Jennifer H. wife of Michael Kotzen of North Hampton, NH; his sister Merry Jo wife of Ronald Goldsmith of Loveland CO; eight grandchildren; and four great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his sister Nancy and her husband John Lambert of Manhattan KS.

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to join Skip’s family and friends at a memorial gathering at the Manheim Railroad Station, 210 South Charlotte Street, Manheim on Saturday, November 2, 2024 from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM. 

To celebrate Skip with a donation in his memory, please consider a contribution to the Stiegel Glassworks 1976 or the Manheim Historical Society.