Richard D. "Rich" Werner

Richard D. “Rich” Werner, 71, of Manheim, passed away on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, at Lancaster General Hospital.

Born in Lebanon, he was the son of the late Harry W. and Anna M. Davis Werner. Rich was the loving husband of Joan Graby Werner, with whom he celebrated 51 years of marriage this past March.

Rich was a hardworking man who spent much of his life as a loom technician for the Weave Corp. in Denver and later retired from Arconic in Lancaster. One of the more special chapters of his life was owning and operating the Mt. Gretna Roller Rink from 1995 to 2006. It was the very same roller rink where he and Joan first met, making it a special part of their story together.

Rich had a personality all his own. He loved being part of the action, never wanted to miss a thing, and somehow managed to keep up with more than one conversation at a time. He enjoyed joking around, loved a “little” attention, and was known for his stubborn streak. He often joked about keeping one eye open, and those who knew him well understood that not much got past Rich.

Of all the things Rich enjoyed in life, nothing meant more to him than his family. He especially loved having Joan close by. He liked knowing where she was at all times, and if she was nearby, you could be sure he was keeping an eye on her. He had a special way with babies and treasured time spent with his children and grandchildren.

Rich also loved a good vacation, especially trips to Ocean City, Maryland. He enjoyed everything that came with it—the car shows, going to the boardwalk, great food, plenty of ice cream, and simply soaking up the atmosphere. Ocean City was a place he always looked forward to returning to and one that held a special place in his heart. He also loved spending time at the casino, where he found simple happiness in playing the slot machines and taking in the excitement around him.

Rich will be remembered for his humor, his larger-than-life personality, and the love he had for those closest to him. His family will cherish the stories, laughter, and countless little moments that made him who he was. There was only one Rich, and he will be deeply missed.

Surviving in addition to his wife, Joan, are two daughters, Heather M., wife of Jeffery Arters of Manheim, and Erika D., wife of Gary Weaver of Elizabethtown; six grandchildren; a brother, Dale E., husband of Karen Werner; four sisters, Daisy M., wife of Brent Thomas, Sr., Dolly M., wife of Dennis Young, Lisa A., wife of Randall Kreiser, and Ruth “Toot” Werner; and a sister-in-law, Roberta Werner.

He was preceded in death by four brothers, Harry, Russell, Clifford, and LeRoy Werner.

Family and friends are warmly invited to celebrate Rich’s life on Saturday, November 14, 2026, at Manheim Brethren in Christ Church, 54 North Penryn Road, Manheim. Visitation with the family will begin at 11:30 AM, followed by a Celebration of Life service at 12:00 noon. Please use the north entrance.

Lunch and fellowship will follow the service. Family and friends are encouraged to come as they are, share memories, and celebrate a life that meant so much to so many.