Dennis Robert Karalfa

Dennis Robert Karalfa, 79, of Elizabethtown passed away on Tuesday, October 7, 2025. Born in Altoona, he was the son of the late Robert and Helen (Burkholder) Karalfa. He was the loving husband of 40 years to Linda J. (Darhower) Karalfa.

Dennis graduated from Kennard-Dale High School, then attended Penn State University for music education. While there, he was a member and secretary of the Penn State Blue Band. After Penn State, Dennis furthered his education at Adams State University in Colorado, earning his master’s degree in music education. His passion for music continued as a music teacher for Derry Township Schools. He was a prominent member of the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association and assisted with local organizations including the Elizabethtown Area High School Marching Band, Elizabethtown Music Foundation and Elizabethtown Arts in the Park. Dennis also expressed his faith through music as a choir director and organist for both St. Paul’s United Methodist Church and Glossbrenner Church, as well as substitute organist for many churches in the area. In his later years, he became the Director of the Encore Band at Masonic Village. Dennis also participated in the Elizabethtown Lions Club as a member and president. He enjoyed gardening, painting and time with his family.

In addition to his wife, Dennis is survived by his four children, Jeffrey Giles (Paula), Nicole Stidd (Michael), Jill Kaylor (Scott), and Laura Dare (Chad); nine grandchildren; ten great grandchildren; and a brother, Barry Karalfa. He is preceded in death by his first wife, Janet (Wolfe) Karalfa, along with his parents.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, October 17, 2025 at 11AM at St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, 398 N. Locust St., Elizabethtown, PA 17022. Family and friends are invited for a time of visitation from 10AM until the time of service. Interment will be private at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Paul’s UMC Music Fund at www.WeAreSaintPauls.com or the address above.