Trending
Christopher (Chris) Rice, of Port Royal, passed away Aug. 1, 2026, at his home.
He was born Nov. 17, 1950, in Lewistown. He was the son of the late Melvin S. Rice and Christine Bell Rice. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother Samuel M. Rice. Chris is survived by his sister Mrs. Jennifer (George) Marshall, of Honey Grove, his brother, Matthew S. Rice, of Greenwood Nursing Home in Lewistown, his nieces Kellie Baker, Samantha Rice, and Linda Moyer and his nephew, Daniel Richard.
Chris was a 1968 graduate of Tuscarora Valley High School, Port Royal. His class was the last class to graduate from this school. Chris worked for the Department of Transportation and the Central Dauphin County School District.
Chris enjoyed spending time with family and friends and also traveling. He enjoyed his visits from his brother-in-law George discussing politics, over coffee and doughnuts.
Chris joined the Friendship Fire Company, of Port Royal, at the age of 16 and remained a life member of the department for 59 years. In his time, he held different offices lastly president of the company. Over the years, Chris held memberships in different departments throughout Central Pennsylvania, including Mifflintown Hose Company, Junction Fire Company in Mifflin County, and Progress Fire Company in Dauphin County. Chris looked forward each year to attending the PA State Fireman's convention held throughout the state. He also attended the New Jersey State Fireman's Association Convention and the Maryland State Fire Fighters Association held each year in Ocean City, Md. For more than 10 consecutive years Chris attended the St. Patrick's Day parade in New York City where he marched with other fireman and the New York Fire Department. Chris made his life about the volunteer fire service and was known by many in the service. All who knew him or when you met him you knew you had a friend or just made a new one. Chris will be missed by many.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Friendship Fire Company of Port Royal, or Friendship Fire Company Ladies Auxiliary and mailed to 212 W. 4th Street, Port Royal, PA 17082.
A celebration of life will be held on Aug. 23, 2026, at the Port Royal Community Hall, 212 W. 4th Street, Port Royal, PA 17082.