CMSGT Harland J. Ketchum

CMSGT Harland J. Ketchum, retired, passed away Sept.15, 2026.
A resident of York County since 1973, Harland was born April 9, 1935 in Albion, Maine. Following graduation from High School he
enlisted in the U.S. Air Force retiring with 25 years of service. While stationed at Loring Air Force Base, Maine, he met the love of his life Avis M. Belanger. With short notice he was reassigned to Zaragoza, Spain. Avis later joined him and they were married Dec. 23, 1958. They were the first couple married in the Base Chapel at Zaragoza AB, Spain. Harland was stationed in Spain, Guam and Vietnam and several stateside bases. While stationed in Guam he was sent to several Southeast Asia bases on temporary duty. His military decorations and awards included the bronze star, meritorious service medal with 2 clusters, Air Force Commendation Medal with 10 clusters, Vietnam Service Medal W/BSS, Air Force Outstanding Unit Award, and the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, and the NCO Academy Award. Harland continued his education graduating from the University of St. Leo with degrees in Business and Human Resources.
Following retirement from the Air Force he worked for the U.S. Postal Service for 18 years. After retiring from the Postal Service he enjoyed working in the community as a member of the Exchange Club of York, a civic organization providing programs for helping senior citizens, and supporting goals for children involved in child abuse situations. For several years he was in charge of a charity fund raiser providing support for these programs. A member for over 30 years he served as President four times. Harland was also a member of Charleston #44, Masonic Lodge for over 50 years.
Harland loved his family and enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren. For pastimes he enjoyed cooking, reading, watching sports and family gatherings. Harland was predeceased by his parents Verne and Blanche Ketchum, brothers Paul and Harold (wife Catherine deceased, and Kenneth, and his beloved Aunt Rena B. Thorp.
Harland is survived by his loving wife of _68_years Avis M. Ketchum. He was the proud father of three wonderful children: Shannon (Helenbrook) husband Howard, Kevin (wife Sherri), and Robyn House (husband Bill). Five grandchildren: Haven (husband Erik), Collin (wife Mai), Samantha, Brielle (wife Kayla), and Colton (wife Jeannine). Six great-grandchildren, Spencer and Emma Ketchum, Esmée and Lewis Lineberry, Reese Ketchum, and Kaia Helenbrook. Nephew James Ketchum, Skowhegan, Maine. Niece Ginny White Ketchum (partner Michael Cowing, and children Jamie, Danielle and Ben, Niece, Kimberly Holmes (husband) Kerry, Skowhegan, Maine.
Funeral arrangements will be by direction of Amory Funeral Home, Grafton, Virginia. Visitation will be on October 3rd, 2026, from 5-7 PM at Amory Funeral Home. Burial services with full military honors will be held at Grace Church, Yorktown, Virginia on October 6th, 2026, at 10:30 AM. Reception will be held in the parish hall following the service.