Chris DiGiacomo

Chris DiGiacomo, 59, passed away on Sunday, June 9, 2024 at Lancaster General Hospital. With the love of his life by his side, his incredible heart took one final beat following years of struggles with Myotonic Dystrophy. Born in Philadelphia, he was the son of the late Eugene P. and Claire L. (O’Brien) DiGiacomo. He graduated from Pennsbury High School, attended Temple University, and graduated from Millersville University with a B.A. in History and teaching certification. Chris is survived by his wife, Susan (Dunkle); his sister, Gina, and her husband, William Trimble; brother, David DiGiacomo, his wife, Lauren and their daughter, Ella, Chris’s beloved niece and Goddaughter; and Larry Hershberger, Claire’s long-time companion who treated Chris like a son. Known by Uncle Chris to many, he was especially fond of his step-niece, Alice, and her husband, Mat Sugarman. Also surviving are his aunt Patricia (O’Brien) Dehnert, numerous cousins, friends and extended family. He will be profoundly missed by all who knew and loved him. Throughout his life, Chris enjoyed many vocations, ranging from doing private security at Veteran’s Stadium to various positions within the food service industry to his last career choice in education. His first teaching job was at Manos House, a place where he hoped he would help a few kids get back on the right path. Prior to an early retirement due to health reasons, Chris last worked as a substitute teacher in the Manheim Township and Milton S. Hershey school systems. Raised in the Catholic faith, Chris was a member of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church Ephrata, PA. He was an avid sports enthusiast and a former soccer player, coach and referee. His main sports passion was football and thankfully lived long enough to see his beloved Eagles win a Super Bowl! He loved music, animals (particularly cats), traveling to Las Vegas and the simple pleasure of a good meal with friends or family. His whip smart mind and brave spirit served him well as he dealt with increasing debility. Never a word of self-pity was ever uttered by Chris. Illness may have weakened his body, but he displayed a strength few people possess. Chris’s family wishes to thank everyone in the healthcare community who was ever part of his care team. There are too many individuals to name who were key in keeping him in optimal health over decades. Know he was grateful for your care and compassion. In accordance with Chris’s wishes, no formal public viewing or funeral service will be held. A private memorial will be planned for a later date. To honor Chris, please donate to a charity of your choice or better yet, give a forever home to a dog or cat in need.