Sandra Gerfin Castleman, 82, of Lancaster, passed away on March 7, 2023 after a 2 month battle with cancer.
Born in Lancaster, Sandy was the only child of the late Frederick “Vernie” Gerfin and Erma Shaub Gerfin.
Sandy loved learning and was an excellent student, graduating in the top ten of her McCaskey Class of 1958. After graduation, Sandy started her career working in the secretarial pool at Armstrong World Industries, but later transitioned into education, where she served for 27 years as an administrative assistant in various schools and offices within the School District of Lancaster. Through that role she was a member of organizations LLAEOP and ABWA.
Sandy retired in 2002, which allowed her more time to focus on pursuits outside of work including, gardening and camping. Sandy had a green thumb and enjoyed growing both flowers and vegetables. She also enjoyed home decorating and was particularly talented at making seasonal arrangements. Sandy loved the ocean, favoring vacations to Florida and Assateague Island. She appreciated good food, and never turned down an invite to go out to dinner. Sandy, participated in several bridge groups, in which she enjoyed the food and conversation as much as the actual game. Sandy had a large and dear friend group and never missed sending out birthday and anniversary wishes.
Sandy was a lifelong member of the First United Methodist Church. She liked watching most sports, and was an avid Penn State and Philadelphia Eagles fan. Sandy enjoyed her family, and was particularly proud of her three granddaughters, Kelsey, Mackenzie, and Taylor. She relished her role as “Gram.”
Sandy was preceded in death by both a fiance’, Robert A Smith and an ex-husband Larry G Castleman. Surviving are two children, Greg K Castleman, husband of Jacquelyn (Aten) Castleman of Millersville, and Wendy C Nolan, wife of Wesley C Nolan of Columbia.
Sandy’s funeral service will be held at the DeBord Snyder Funeral Home, 141 E Orange Street, Lancaster, PA on Friday, March 10th at 10:30 am. Friends may call on the funeral home from 9:30 am until the time of the service. Interment will follow at Riverview Burial Park.
Sue Bean says
Greg, Jackie, Wendy and Wes
We are so sorry to hear about your loss of Sandy. We are all in our thoughts and prayers. Sandy is no longer suffering and my she rest in peace.
Love always
Sue and Bud Bean
Deb Gilgore says
Heartfelt sympathies to Greg and Jackie, and Wendy, Wes, Kelsey, Mackenzie, and Taylor. Sandy was my late mother’s (Lois Crownover) longtime best friend, and countless happy childhood memories involved times shared with the Castleman family. Many, many meals and game nights spent in each other’s homes, camping together, rafting down the PA Grand Canyon, and going to the beach, all filled with much laughter and all forever etched in my heart.
Lifting your family in prayer at this most tender time; may you experience comfort and peace and be able to smile through your tears as you remember your beloved mom and Gram.
Much love,
Deb (Crownover) and Rick Gilgore
Barbara Arms says
Our deepest sympathy to all Sandy’s family. I worked with her at SDOL had many fun times!
Carol Faltine Casner says
Sandy Gerfin. Her name brings 2 words to mind, smiles and laughter.. May it fill your memories and comfort you forever..
janet b lyons says
My condolences to the family of Sandy. Where do I begin. Sandy and I were born the same year and retired the same year. Always enjoyed getting together for breakfasts and dinners. Enjoyed the many times we gathered at her Lancaster house and also when she moved to Southern Lancaster County. Our little group of friends always admired her flower and vegetable gardens. Rest in peace my friend.
Janet Lyons
Arlene says
So sorry for your loss. I enjoyed getting to know Sandy when she came to my place the third monday each month to play bridge.. The group had such a great time and we all have great memories of our times together. May she rest in peace. Arlene Zerr
Sylvia Chen says
Sandy was a great next-door neighbor, welcoming me to the neighborhood 2 1/2 years ago with fresh baked zucchini bread. I enjoyed our front yard chats as she kept me up to date with the happenings in our community. She was a thoughtful, generous person and I am sorry that we could not have more time together. I’ll miss you, Sandy. Godspeed
Gabriele Patterson says
I am so sorry to learn about Sandy’s passing. I will keep the family in my prayers. She was a wonderful lady.
Love,
Gabriele and Richard
Patricia Geiger says
We are praying for all of you! Wendy your mom was always such a Rockstar – God Bless Sandy! She knew how to make everyone feel special. Sending love and strength to your family. xoxoxo
Patty and Ted
Sandra Smith says
I am so sorry to hear about Sandy’s passing, she was always so caring, so glad I got to see her n enjoy lunch with her the last time I was in PA.
Mary Ellen Brimmer says
I was sorry to hear of your mothers passing. She was a very nice person and I felt fortunate to know her even though it wasn’t for a very long time. You are in my prayers.
Lynne Dommel says
I so wanted to be with you today, but prior plans kept me away. My deepest and heartfelt sympathy goes out to you, Wendy and Greg (and family). I remember your mom’s big smile and enthusiastic greeting so fondly. She always made you feel like you were the only one in the room when she was talking to you.
Beth Wade says
My condolences to Sandy’s family. I knew Sandy throughout the years, and I remember her dedication to the School District of Lancaster. She was kind and gracious to all.
Beth Wade
Lucia Pugh says
Greg and Wendy, I just saw this on her Facebook page. My heart stopped beating when I read that your Mom had passed. I will never forget the WONDERFUL LOVING WOMAN she was. It was an honor to meet her through the both of you. Then , of course at Lincoln, where the place would never have run properly if not for her.
My sincere condolences to the entire Castleman family. Siempre , Senora Pugh ( Lucy De Lutis).
Jane Barsumian says
So very sorry to learn of the loss of my very bright classmate, Sandy!
My deepest sympathies to her children!
Jane Barsumian
Chris Bunce says
I knew Sandy from SDOL and was surprised when she moved in just up the street from me. While our interactions were mostly neighborly discussions, she always remembered my dog Sandy and was very caring when I had my knee surgery. This loss took me by surprise as she never mentioned being ill. So very sorry for the loss of this thoughtful, caring lady.