John Charles Marsh

John Charles “Chauncey” Marsh, of Elizabethtown, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, on Monday, March 30, at the Masonic Homes Health Center.

Born April 26, 1945, in Steubenville, Ohio, Chauncey was a self-made individual who took great pride in being the first in his family to attend college, serve his country in wartime, and build a successful career in business. He worked as a purchaser for several organizations, including Sperry (Ford) New Holland, Fruehauf, and the Masonic Homes. He was also an Eagle Scout, among the first in his troop to achieve that distinction.

Following his graduation from Hopedale High School, Chauncey attended Ohio University from 1963 to 1967, where he met and married his beloved wife, Lynn. After college, he enlisted in the United States Air Force, serving in Thailand during the Vietnam War, where he worked on F-4 fighter aircraft. He rose to the rank of Captain.

Chauncey was deeply committed to serving his community. He was an active member of the consistory at St. Stephen’s U.C.C. in New Holland during the 1980s, a dedicated Boy Scout leader for many years, and a youth basketball coach. He also gave generously of his time to help those in need, whether by providing transportation or serving meals.

An avid sports fan, Chauncey especially enjoyed spending time in his retirement years following his granddaughter Natalie’s college field hockey career. He was a passionate supporter of the Penn State Nittany Lions and the Philadelphia Eagles.

He is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Lynn; his sons, John David (Jan) Marsh and Ryan (Robyn) Marsh; his grandchildren, Adam (Samantha) Marsh, Natalie (John) Shiba, Emma Stanson-Marsh, Morgan Stanson-Marsh, and Alyssa Marsh; step-grandchildren Noah Michael, Benjamin Michael, Daniel Michael, Ruby Michael and his great-grandchildren, Owen, Connor, Bella, and Emmy. Chauncey was the rock and patriarch for all of his children and grandchildren, and their lives are forever blessed because of him.

Chauncey will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of truly knowing him.

Details of a celebration of life will be shared later in the spring.