Michael Allen Longenecker

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Michael Allen Longenecker, age 59, of Lower Allen Township, who left us on Wednesday, June 11, 2025, at Select Specialty Hospital in Camp Hill.

Mike was born on October 26, 1965, in Harrisburg, to Kenneth A. Longenecker and Joan H. Hoover Lash, who both survive him. He was a proud graduate of Susquenita High School and Cumberland Valley Vo-Tech, where he pursued his passion for horticulture. He dedicated his career to Landscaping and Groundskeeping and spent 25 years at the State Department of General Services before retiring just 2 months ago.

In February 2018, amidst his daily routine, Mike encountered Val, the love of his life, during a casual dog walk in their neighborhood. Their connection blossomed into a beautiful marriage on April 24, 2021. Together, they created countless cherished memories, traveling to beautiful destinations like Cancun and Jamaica, as Mike always favored warmer places over snowy ones.

An ardent supporter of the Philadelphia Eagles and the Phillies, Mike found joy not only in sports but also in the simple pleasures of life. He loved watching General Hospital and listening to the sweet melodies of the Beach Boys. One of his greatest joys was sharing cookouts at his mother's home while caring for her lawn, making others laugh, and creating lasting memories with his family, especially treasuring the moments spent with his beloved niece and great nephews.

Mike leaves behind his devoted wife, Val; his mother, Joan Lash and her husband, Robert; his father, Kenneth Longenecker and his wife, Carol; his sisters, Sherri Arhondakis and her husband, George, and Cris Blessing and her husband, Fred; as well as his niece, Sara Davis, her husband, Dyllan and their children, Silas and Henry; his nephew, JR Hockley, his wife, Tanya, and their children, Charlotte and Jayden; his niece, Taylor Arhondakis; his mother-in-law, Paula Bergstrasser; sister-in-law, Elly Sill, her husband, Trever, and their children, Lauren and Kyle Sill; his brother-in-law, Bill Bergstrasser; and his faithful and loving cats, Shelby and Hailey. He is also survived by numerous dear friends and co-workers, all of whom will deeply miss his vibrant presence.

A celebration of Mike’s life will take place 11:00 AM, Monday, June 23, 2025, at York Springs GMC, 840 Trolley Road, York Springs, with Pastor Trisha Guise officiating. Friends and family are invited to gather one hour prior to the service, and we encourage everyone to wear sports-related gear or bright clothing that reflects Mike's joy for life.

In honor of Mike, the family requests that contributions be made to Betsy & Ted Lewin Adoption Center for Cats and Critters, 2195 Lincoln Highway E, Lancaster, 17602, the local animal shelter from which he adopted his beloved cats.

The arrangements are being handled by Kimmel Funeral Home in Harrisburg. As we remember Mike, let us celebrate the warmth, laughter, and love he brought into our lives.