Jean Gsell, January 23, 1937 — March 20, 2019

Jean’s Obituary Jean Gsell, 82, of Mechanicsburg, passed away on March 20, 2019 at Country Meadows. If you look up the word “people person” in the dictionary, Jean’s photo is right next to the definition. Outgoing and personable, Jean made friends wherever she went – capturing them with her warm smile, ready laugh and gracious manner.

When she moved to Country Meadows three years ago, she added yet another group of friends who soon became family. Born in Johnson City, NY, on January 23, 1937 to the late John and Anne (Gormish) Kelly, Jean was raised in Binghamton. She was president of her senior class at North High School, and shortly after graduation, took a job as a secretary at IBM in Endicott where she met her husband Harry.

It was a match made in heaven, and they became the proud parents of three girls, and grandparents of three grandsons and three granddaughters. They exemplified a loving marriage for 57 years until Harry’s death in 2014. Harry’s job at IBM caused them to move several times, with their most memorable time spent in Paris, France, for eight years.

When Harry retired in 1987, they settled in Mechanicsburg. Jean bowled at Trindle Bowl in the Morning Glories and other leagues for almost three decades, and volunteered at the Mechanicsburg Library where she chaired their book sales for 17 years. Lauded for her ability to put together the perfect outfit, Jean was also known for her cooking and baking – especially the holupkis and kolachkis that showcased her Slavic heritage.

An avid reader, she also enjoyed going to casinos and on cruises, and spending as much time as possible with her family. Jean is survived by three daughters – Gail (Michael) Manginelli of Scottsdale, AZ; Lori Blanford of Ripley, OH; and Carrie Rauch of Gainesville, VA – and sisters Joan Serafini and Sharon Grogan. Her six grandchildren were her pride and joy: Matthew and Megan Manginelli, Bobby and Ryan Blanford, and Amy and Natalie Rauch.

Besides her parents and Harry, Jean was predeceased by two infant children and numerous other relatives. A memorial service and Catholic mass will be held this summer at St. Joseph’s Church in Mechanicsburg. In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor Jean’s life are encouraged to donate in her memory to New Hope Ministries, 5228 East Trindle Road, Mechanicsburg, PA 17050.

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