Eileen Velter

Eileen (Donbaugh) Velter, age 96, of Linglestown, died on Thursday, June 20, 2024, at Messiah Lifeways with loved ones by her side. Eileen was born on Monday, January 9, 1928, in Camp Hill to Edward Franklin Donbaugh and Anna Louella (Wallace) Reeseman. In addition to her parents, Eileen is preceded in death by three sisters, Helen Usztics, Betty Wisehaupt, and Doris Warfield. 

Eileen’s survivors include her brother, Barry Donbaugh and his wife, Genie, of Georgia; her sister, Jeanne Durborow and her husband, Richard, of Camp Hill, along with 5 nephews and 4 nieces.

As a teenager, Eileen worked Saturdays from 8 am to 11 pm at her father’s nut shop in Harrisburg. She made milkshakes  and sundaes, as well as sold nuts and popcorn to customers, most of whom were headed to the theater next door. After graduation from Lemoyne High School, Eileen was employed by Bowman’s department store where she worked her way from sales to accounting, eventually becoming the Personnel Director. She also worked as a Consumer Product Research Associate where she enjoyed convincing people to try out and critique new products. Eileen was always an avid volunteer, especially at her church which was the former Linglestown United Methodist Church. She taught Sunday school, was the director of Summer Bible School, and was well-known for writing and directing the church’s Christmas plays. When she moved to New Love in Christ Church, she continued to volunteer in a number of capacities until she was no longer able to drive. Additionally, Eileen was a reliable weekly volunteer at a local Goodwill store for many years where she enjoyed stocking the shelves and assisting the customers. In addition to her volunteering activities, Eileen was a wonderful cook and was usually in charge of bringing dessert to family Sunday dinners. Along with being a great cook, Eileen was a skilled seamstress, sewing curtains, upholstering furniture, and creating beautiful clothing and coats. She loved to relax in the evenings by knitting and made many sweaters, blankets, and even one of a kind Christmas stockings for those she loved.  She was also an avid reader, switching to an e-reader in her later years as her sight diminished and was particularly drawn to memoirs and historical fiction. Eileen was a strong and independent woman who led a very full life with the goal of making a positive difference in people’s lives. 

Eileen's family would like to especially thank Patti for her devoted care to Eileen in the past five plus years.  They would also like to thank all the special people at Messiah who so lovingly cared for Eileen--you know who you are!  You all made a positive difference in her life.

All are welcome to join Eileen’s family at her memorial service on Saturday, July 6, 2024, at 12:00 p.m. at New Love in Christ Church, 6003 Jonestown Road, Harrisburg, PA 17112, with Pastor Ramos officiating. Eileen’s family also invites everyone to join them for a time of food and fellowship at the church immediately following the service. 

Eileen’s family has entrusted her care to Buhrig Funeral & Cremation in Mechanicsburg, PA. Read Eileen’s full obituary, view portrait, offer condolences and sympathy, share stories and memories, upload photographs and videos, light a candle and sign her official guest book by visiting Buhrig.com.