The Passing of a Witness to Silver Lake History

In our book “The History of Silver Lake as Told Through Its Deeds”, we wrote with a sense of urgency, driven by the advancing age of first hand witnesses. We embarked on a quest to recover historical evidence and weave together a compelling tale of the lake’s evolution before the passing of our treasured observers. Tragically, one such observer passed away in January 2024, just weeks before the first galley was produced, and this week we lost a main character.

Robert Vernon Stonesifer, Sr., born in 1927 to Guy and Mabel Stonesifer in Lewisberry, PA, lived next to the Lewisberry Mill. Edith Cline, a reporter for The Gazette and Daily of York, Pennsylvania, affectionately referred to him as “Bobbie” in her articles. He passed away peacefully in his home in Palm Bay, Florida on June 15, 2024.

Before Bobbie’s fourth birthday, tragedy struck when his father fell gravely ill and passed away shortly after. Despite this loss, Mabel Stonesifer, who had experienced a similar hardship when her own father died when she was four, ensured Bobbie received a loving upbringing with the support of caring aunts. Known as “Bobbie” in local newspapers, he frequently visited his extended family at Silver Lake.

Bobbie received a comprehensive education at the Milton Hershey School for fatherless boys, including academics, vocational training in carpentry, and a strong foundation in faith. Mabel commuted regularly from Lancaster and later Mechanicsburg to Hershey to spend time with him. She corresponded with him regularly, instilling in him, and later his children, the art of letter writing and expression.

After World War II, Bobbie, known as Stoney to some, served as a Sergeant in the U.S. Army in post-war Germany, where his building skills were in sync with reconstruction efforts. Upon returning to New Jersey, he met Janice Good on a blind date arranged by their mothers. They married in 1951, and Bobbie pursued a successful career as a carpenter and cabinet maker, constructing several family homes during their 63-year marriage.

Bobbie and Janice raised two children and enjoyed a fulfilling retirement, traveling across the country in their Suburban and trailer until settling in Florida, a place they cherished. In retirement, Bobbie remained active in volunteer work, leaving a lasting legacy of kindness and generosity.

Today, we bid farewell to Robert (Bob/Bobbie/Stoney) as he reunites with his parents, beloved wife Janice, and cherished family in heaven. His life was one of purpose and love, leaving behind cherished memories and a lasting impact on all who knew him.

Scott and Kathy Webb are the authors of “The History of Silver Lake as Told Through Its Deeds”, where the Stonesifers are prominently featured.