Rosemary Rita Lashendock

Rosemary Rita (Novasecku, Wagner) Lashendock began her first of 86 journeys around the sun on January 24, 1938. She was the younger of two girls born to Katherine Pilsits and John Novasecku of Steelton, Pa. Raised amongst a large extended family—the love of family defined her life. As a loving daughter and sister, a privileged few called her Butch, the rest of us called her “Ma”.

 Ma was proud to keep a home that was ready to provide hospitality at a moment’s notice. She scrubbed the floors every night, baked a fresh 7-Up cake so there was something tasty to go with your coffee, and had an endless supply of takeout containers. She relished hosting Easter, Thanksgiving, and Christmas, putting out a spread on her best China (or Chinet in later years). And she enjoyed sleepovers with her grandkids, taking them to the movies, sneaking in candy, and getting lost on her way out of the parking lot.

 Although she originally wanted to be a nun, her four kids made it difficult to pursue that calling, so instead she worked for the Harrisburg City School District. Starting as a lunchroom attendant, she gave more than 35 years of service to the district and retired as an Executive Administrative Assistant at the administration building.

 She never really knew the meaning of free time—she was always on the go! She often started her day with early morning mass at St. Theresa’s in New Cumberland where she was a Eucharistic Minister. From there she would check-in on her kids and grandkids and run errands. Ma was active in the Order of the Eastern Star and honored to serve as Worthy Matron. She studied scripture with her Little Flower Club and stayed connected with all her neighbors, whether it was on Holly Drive or playing bingo at The Woods. She made it a point to talk to everyone!

 On Thursday, October 17, 2024, Ma entered the Kingdom of Heaven and was reunited with her “answering service”, I mean late husband, Ernest Lashendock (she always thought his name sounded so refined). Her legacy of love and sass is now carried on by her older sister Patricia “Snooks” Eagan, and three generations of Wagners, Mackeys, Deemers, and Lashendocks!

A time of visitation will be held at Parthemore Funeral Home in New Cumberland on Monday, October 28, from 9 to 10am, followed by a Mass of Resurrection at St. Teresa of the Infant Jesus Parish, celebrated by Father Jonathan P. Sawicki. Interment will follow at the Indiantown Gap National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to your favorite charity that changes lives!