Galen Earl Mutzabaugh

Galen Earl Mutzabaugh passed away peacefully in the early morning hours of Monday, October 13, 2025, at Claremont Nursing Home in Carlisle, Pennsylvania. Born at Harrisburg Hospital on February 26, 1930, Galen grew up in Newport, PA. His lifelong passion for music began at the age of five, when his maternal grandmother, Irene Cordova Troutman, introduced him to the piano and organ. Though he was most widely known for his mastery of those instruments, Galen was also a gifted violinist who could play nearly any instrument he touched. Galen attended Susquehanna University and the Music Conservatory at Lebanon Valley College and, with the exception of his service to the US Army during the Korean War, dedicated his life to teaching piano, organ and music theory at J.H. Troup Music Company in Harrisburg until 1979 and Wray's Music House in Lemoyne (1979 to 2016). In addition to teaching, Galen served faithfully in music ministry as a church organist and music director for many area congregations. He was also involved with the Harrisburg Symphony and the Wednesday Club. It became a cherished tradition for Galen to play piano or organ at the weddings of his students-an expression of his deep affection for those he mentored. Galen was predeceased by his parents, James and Mabel Mutzabaugh; his sister, Wenda Mutzabaugh Wilson; and his best friend, Harold Gordon. He is survived by the countless students and friends who were fortunate to learn from him-not only about music, but about life, optimism, and gratitude. Anyone who knew Galen will recall him walking down the street, or wherever he went, with a constant smile on his face. Galen's friends wish to express their heartfelt gratitude to everyone who visited and supported him since his admission to Claremont in 2016. Interment will take place at Fort Indiantown Gap on Friday, October 31, at 11:00 a.m., with Rev. David Schreffler presiding.
Musselman