Ethan Frederick Small

Ethan Frederick Small, 20, of Gardners, PA, passed away unexpectedly on the morning of Friday, August 21, 2026, in Penn Township. Born on August 30, 2005, in Harrisburg, he was the son of Jon and Sara (Gaupp) Small.

A graduate of Commonwealth Charter Academy, Ethan found his calling outdoors. He was an arborist at heart, having worked high in the treetops since he was old enough to drive. He took pride in his work and just recently began exploring the possibility of starting his own business. Away from work, he enjoyed fishing, riding dirt bikes and spending time with his family, friends and girlfriend.

Ethan was a gentleman—mature beyond his years, dependable and remarkably hardworking. He had an instinct for doing the right thing without being asked. His drive and work ethic stood out, especially for someone so young.

Raised in a home where God came first, Ethan grew up attending New Life Church in Fairview Township. He was a great listener who valued meaningful conversations, whether it was with family, friends or strangers, and people knew they could talk to him about the things that mattered most.

Ethan passed away doing something he loved—riding his motorcycle—but far too soon. Just nine days shy of his 21st birthday, he had already proven himself to be a good and decent man. Those who loved him are left to trust that God had greater plans for Ethan and to carry forward the example he set in the short but meaningful life he lived.

In addition to his parents, Jon and Sara Small of Gardners, he leaves behind two brothers, Nicholas J. Small (Kamerin) and Benjamin A. Small; nephews, Noah and Colt; and a niece, Kallie; his maternal grandmother, Brenda Gaupp; paternal grandfather, Kenneth Small; aunts and uncle, Sophia Stouffer (Craig) and Laura Coleman; cousins, Ashley, Aubrey, Andrew, Aiden, Christina and Danny; and mentor, Lee Riddle. Preceding him in death were two grandparents, Betty Jane Small and Frederick Gaupp; and an uncle, Scott Coleman.

Services will be held on Saturday, September 12, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at New Life Church in New Cumberland.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a contribution in Ethan’s name to www.plantmemorialtree.com.