Gary William Metzenbacher, 71, of Lancaster Ohio passed away on October 11, 2024 of heart failure. Beloved son of William and Joyce Metzenbacher. Gary was born on May 30, 1953 in Waterford, PA where he grew up and attended Fort LeBoeuf High School. He was a graduate of Taylor University in Upland, Indiana and had a Bachelors’ degree in Biblical Literature; a Master of Arts in Theology from Western Evangelical Seminary in Portland Oregon; Master of Library Science from Indiana University and a Doctor of Divinity from Cornell University.

Gary was ordained an elder in the Community Christian Association of America in 1976 and served as a pastor to many churches: Arcadia Bible Church; Washington Valley, Cambridge Springs, PA, Collins View Church, Portland, Or; Valley View Church; Street Mission, Portland OR; Rometown Church, Spartanburg, PA; and New Creation MCC, Columbus, Ohio. He was also employed as library director for Western Evangelical Seminary, as library director at Circleville Bible College, and more recently by Columbus City Schools where he spent 20+ years working mostly as a teacher-librarian at East High School –Go Tigers!

Gary had a heart for the disenfranchised and quietly advocated for their rights. He enjoyed movies, his four-legged babies, spending time with family and friends, studying the Word, taking workshops and having intellectually stimulating conversations.

He leaves behind his sister Julie (Rob) and nieces and nephews: Emilie (Will), Jordan, Jeffry, and Spencer (Elizabeth); brother-in-law Steve; great nieces and nephews; and numerous other family members and friends. He was predeceased by his parents, sister Cynthia, brother Jeff and nephew Ryan. Gary will be deeply missed by those who were blessed to know him. His voice was silenced much too soon.

Arrangements: No services or calling hours at this time. As an expression of sympathy and remembrance, the family suggests book donations to your favorite school library.