Donald M. "Don" Hollinger

Donald M. Hollinger, 81, of Manheim, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by loved ones on Tuesday, April 21, 2026. Born in New Providence, he was the son of the late Melvin L. and S. Lois (Witmer) Hollinger.

Don was the devoted and loving husband of Susan L. (Gastrock) Hollinger. They shared nearly 33 years of marriage, building a life grounded in companionship, loyalty, and shared faith as members of the former Trinity Evangelical Congregational Church in Mount Joy.

A 1963 graduate of Lampeter-Strasburg High School, Don answered the call to serve his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War, something he carried with quiet pride throughout his life. His support of the Wounded Warrior Project reflected his deep respect for those who served.

Don worked in sales and management as a technical consultant and trusted advisor in the turf grass industry for many years. His expert knowledge of turf grass science was invaluable, and his knowledge, effort, and attitude allowed him to set sales records considered unattainable in the industry prior.

Don found joy in the outdoors, especially hunting. As a founding member of Lone Pine Lodge in Tioga County, he valued the camaraderie, stories, and traditions shared there. He especially loved hunting at the Drga Ranch in Ismay, Montana. Whether among family or gathered with friends, Don appreciated simple moments and lasting friendships. Don was also an avid snowmobiler and loved riding with family and friends.

He was also deeply dedicated to Freemasonry. As a member of Charles M. Howell Lodge No. 496 in Millersville, he achieved the honor of Worshipful Master and served as Past Master. He continued to serve the Casiphia Lodge No. 551 in Mount Joy, an honor that reflected the respect he earned and the leadership he quietly gave.

More than anything, Don had a lifelong passion for Harley-Davidson motorcycles. Riding wasn’t just a hobby; it was part of who he was. Whether out on the open road with friends, talking shop, or attending races, those moments brought him pure happiness. The rumble of a Harley and the freedom it represented never lost its meaning to him.

Don will be remembered for his steady presence, his loyalty to those he loved, and the genuine enjoyment he found in life’s simple pleasures:-time with his family, the outdoors, good friends, and the open road.

Surviving in addition to his wife, Susan, is a son, Brad P., husband of Julia M. Hollinger of Bradenton, Florida; a daughter, Nicole S. Hollinger, companion of Daniel Nikolaus of Mount Joy; two brothers: Robert Hollinger of Lancaster, and J. Richard, husband of Penny Hollinger of Willow Street; two sisters: Barbara Kilgro of Gadsden, Alabama, and Dorothy, wife of Glenn Finch of Gadsden, Alabama; and sister-in-law, Susan Hollinger of Willow Street. Preceding him in death is a son, Matthew Donald Hollinger and a brother, Daniel E Hollinger.

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Don’s funeral service at the Buch Funeral Home, 21 Market Square, Manheim, on Wednesday, April 29, 2026 at 12:00 PM. Friends may visit with the family at the funeral home on Wednesday morning from 11:00 AM until the time of the service. Interment will immediately follow the service at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery, Annville. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be sent in Don’s memory to the Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, Kansas, 66675-8516.