Meet Our Valued Staff

Warren F. Miller

Supervisor

Warren F. Miller came to Hanover in 1976 with his wife, Barbara, who is also a licensed funeral director. Warren is a graduate of Eastern University and earned a Masters Degree at Villanova University. Following graduation from mortuary school, he worked with his father in the family business and became supervisor of the Wetzel Funeral Home in 1977. Warren is active in the community with the St. Matthew Lutheran Church, Hanover Rotary Club, and a local charity, the Evergreen Foundation. His interests include fly fishing for trout, fishing in general, reading, watching classic movies, and going to live concerts of various types of music.

Stephen K. Miller

Managing Director

Stephen K. “Steve” Miller has been with Wetzel’s since January 1983. He is a graduate of Ursinus College and was a teacher and coach in South Jersey for 8 years prior to relocating to Hanover. He earned his Mortuary Science degree from Catonsville (MD) Community College and became fully licensed PA funeral director in July, 1985. In 1990 he was promoted to Managing Director and is in charge of day to day operations. In Hanover, Steve is a member of First United Methodist Church, B.P.O.E. #763, Moose Lodge #27, Y.M.C.A., the Republican Club, and a V.F.W. associate member. He also is a regular blood donor with the American Red Cross.

Samuel B. Smith

Funeral Director

Sam was born in Allentown, PA, and raised in the close-knit community of Northampton, PA. A proud graduate of Northampton High School's Class of 2003, Sam pursued his passion for funeral service by earning his degree in Mortuary Science from Northampton Community College in 2007. He achieved his Funeral Director's license in 2008, marking the beginning of a dedicated and compassionate career in the funeral service industry.

In July 2012, Sam made the move to Hanover and joined the team at Wetzel Funeral Home & Crematory. With over 17 years of experience encompassing all aspects of funeral service, Sam not only provides empathetic guidance and professional expertise but also serves as the funeral home’s tech support, ensuring seamless operations and innovation within the practice.

Beyond his career, Sam is a devoted family man. He and his wife are the proud parents of two daughters. In his free time, he enjoys creating cherished memories with his family, immersing himself in good books, and exploring the rich history of Gettysburg.

Vernon R. Lohn III

Funeral Director

A United States Marine Corps veteran, Hanover resident and native Marylander, Vernon has 21 years experience in funeral service. He is a licensed practitioner of mortuary science in both Pennsylvania and Maryland. He and his wife, a registered nurse, are active members of Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish in Abbottstown where they serve together in various ministries including teaching in the Religious Education Program as CCD Catechists. In their free time, Mr. & Mrs. Lohn enjoy spending time with their family which includes 2 grown children, studying Scripture, adventures with their 2 dogs, hunting on family land in Virginia and spending time in Ocean City, MD. Vernon places the highest priority on serving the deceased and their families with the utmost care and respect.

Brian R. Molinaro

Funeral Director

Brian is licensed as a Funeral Director in both Pennsylvania and Maryland.

Brian proudly served his country for many years in the United States Army and later in the United States Navy Reserve, receiving an Honorable Discharge from both. His dedication to public service also includes serving as a former Deputy Coroner in Columbia County.

Deeply committed to his community, Brian is a past president of the Hazleton Lions Club and the Holy Name Society of Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Hazleton. He is also a member of BPOE Elks Lodge #763 in Hanover, the Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie #1406, and the American Legion Post #20 in Towson, Maryland.

Brian is happily married to Mary Molinaro, and has three sons. He brings a strong sense of service, leadership, and compassion to the families he serves.

Jerry Esaley

Funeral Director / Crematory Operator

Cindy Orewiler

Administrative Assistant

Donna Gottschall

Administrative Assistant

Joan Belt

Administrative Assistant