Side by Side: The Story of Polly Krumbine and Pat Roeske

In the heart of Lebanon, Pennsylvania, nestled at the corner of 6th & Walnut Street, stood Hebron Elementary—a small school with a big heart. It was here, in the third grade, that Polly and Pat first crossed paths. Their class had only 59 students and the school community was close-knit, shaped by shared values and a sense of belonging. Though Polly and Pat knew of each other, they weren’t close friends. They were simply two girls growing up in the same town, walking parallel paths.

Pat was a tomboy, always following after her two older brothers. She loved the freedom of movement and the thrill of adventure. Polly was outgoing and well-liked. She found joy in routine and connection and her gentle nature made her cherished among classmates.

Despite their differences, both girls shared a love for their school. Pat remembers the safety and warmth of Hebron Elementary and South Lebanon High School, the fantastic teachers who made learning exciting and the sense of community that wrapped around her like a blanket. Polly, too, cherished those years—especially the laughter shared on the school bus, driven by the ever-patient Howard Wolfe and the friendships that bloomed in the hallways.

As teenagers, they both worked at the local Five & Dime, and spent weekends at the Dixie Drive-In and the Key movie drive-In, where trays of burgers, slices of pizza and milkshakes hung from car doors and the air buzzed with teenage energy. The drive-ins were more than hangouts—they were the backdrop of their youth, filled with music, laughter and the thrill of growing up.

Polly’s life took a romantic turn in high school when she began dating Richard during their senior year. Their first date was the Valentine’s dance, where Richard was crowned “King of the Valentines,” followed by a second date at the senior prom. Their love blossomed quickly and after graduation in 1959, Polly moved to Lancaster and began working at a church. She and Richard married in 1964 and soon started a family. They had three children and eventually returned to Lebanon County when Richard took a teaching job at Northern Lebanon High School.

Pat’s journey after high school began a little more turbulent. She married young and had her first child. But tragedy struck when her husband passed away from cancer at just 23. Grieving and determined, Pat found strength in her father, who supported her through the darkest days. Later, she met her second husband at a show bar, where they connected over live music. He was from Latvia, a survivor of war-torn Europe and his resilience inspired Pat. With his encouragement, she returned to school, earning a degree in accounting from Lebanon Valley College through evening classes. Together, they raised a family of three children.

Both women were deeply rooted in Lebanon County. Polly became a post carrier for the Lebanon Post Office, while Richard pursued his passion for aviation, building planes and flying as a pilot. Polly’s life also presented challenges and heartache when Richard was diagnosed with MS and later suffered a traumatic brain injury. Polly stood by him, caring for him with unwavering devotion throughout their marriage.

Pat and her second husband built a life filled with love and resilience together. They spent many years traveling. After his passing, Pat made the decision to move to Cornwall Manor in December 2022, choosing a third-floor apartment in Laurel Place. She wanted to stay close to her roots, even as her children lived an hour away. She found peace in the safety and community of Cornwall Manor and joy in her 15 grandchildren—13 of them boys.

Polly’s children remained close as well—two live locally, and one an hour away. Her daughter Sue, a retired nurse, volunteers at Cornwall Manor’s Treasure Trove. Her son retired from the Pennsylvania State Police and her oldest daughter is still working. Polly has four grandchildren, evenly split between boys and girls.

Though life kept them busy—careers, children, caregiving—they occasionally saw each other at class reunions, which Pat often organized. She kept a spreadsheet of classmates, noting that a third had passed away. These reunions were bittersweet, filled with memories and laughter and a reminder of how quickly time moves.

Then, in 2024, fate intervened.

Polly was touring Cornwall Manor, considering a move. As she walked down the hallway of Laurel Place, she saw a familiar face sitting at the end—Pat. Recognition sparked instantly, and the two women reconnected with warmth and joy. When Polly decided to move in, she chose the apartment right next door to Pat’s.

Now, after decades of living parallel lives, Polly and Pat are neighbors—side by side once again.

Their friendship has deepened in this new chapter. They text each other and get together often to share stories from their youth. Polly enjoys watching the Phillies and is considering joining the choir. Pat is active in Bands exercise, yoga and walks daily on the treadmill. She also attends chair yoga at both Cornwall Manor and the Lebanon YMCA.

Their daughters, Sue and Nicole—friends since high school—played key roles in helping their mothers research and choose Cornwall Manor. It’s a beautiful symmetry: two generations of friendship, woven together by care and love.

Both women recall strong relationships with their fathers. Pat’s father helped her through the loss of her first husband. Polly, who lost her mother at a young age, found strength and guidance in her father’s steady presence.

Today, Polly and Pat are grateful. Grateful for the lives they’ve lived, the challenges they’ve faced, the families they’ve raised and the friendship that has come full circle. Polly loves the friendliness of Cornwall Manor, while Pat finds comfort in its safety and knowing everything is taken care of. And every hour, Polly hears Pat’s cuckoo clock from Germany through the wall—a gentle chime that reminds her of time, of friendship and of the beautiful way life brings people back together.