Each year, the Community of Lebanon Association proudly honors a local business leader who exemplifies professional excellence, civic involvement, and a deep commitment to our community. The Merritt Marks Business Person of the Year Award recognizes individuals who have made a lasting impact through their work, leadership, and service in Lebanon.

Our 2026 CLA Merritt Marks Business Person of the Year Winner:

Patrick Freer, Jr.

President of Strickler Insurance

The CLA is proud to recognize Patrick Freer, Jr. as the 2026 Merritt Marks Business Person of the Year. As the third-generation President of Strickler Insurance, Patrick continues his family’s legacy of trust, integrity, and service—helping protect families and businesses across Central Pennsylvania while leading with heart and vision.

Patrick’s impact reaches far beyond the insurance industry. He serves on the Board of Directors for the Lebanon Valley Chamber of Commerce and the Lebanon Family YMCA, where he played a key role in launching the Freer Family Community Youth Center. This free after-school space provides middle and high school students with meals, mentorship, academic support, and a safe environment to learn and grow.

A two-time President of the Rotary Club of Lebanon, Patrick is a devoted community volunteer and youth basketball coach. He co-founded Snitz Creek Brewery, a downtown landmark that supports local nonprofits through events like the Linebreaker 5K. He also chaired Bologna Fest, which raised over $120,000 for charitable causes in the region.

“Patrick is known throughout Lebanon for his quiet generosity, hands-on leadership, and unwavering commitment to youth and community causes. His behind-the-scenes support has made a lasting difference in the lives of many, and he always shows up when the community needs him most.”

A celebration honoring Patrick Freer, Jr. will be held on Wednesday, March 18th 4:30-6:30pm at the YMCA Train Depot.

Merritt Marks Memorial Business Person of the Year Award Recipients:

2025 – Bill Shay Jr.
2024 – Greg Viatl
2022 – Vincent Garcia
2021 – David and Laurie Funk
2020 – Melody Vincent
2019 – Steve Goodhue
2018 – Loreen Burkett
2017 – Dennis Shalters
2016 – Anthony & Tiffany Miller
2015 – Kim Kreider Umble
2014 – Diana Hartman
2013 – Cindy Heisey
2012 – Frank Heilman
2011 – Karen Groh
2010 – Jack Cantwell
2009 – Ken Keener
2008 – Thomas Gerhart
2007 – Bernerd Buzgon
2006 – Willie Erb
2005 – William Kolivani
2004 – Richard Wertz
2003 – Valerie Stokes
2002 – Patrick Freer
2001 – Walter Zehring
2000 – Kaj Skov
1999 – Frank Dixon
1998 – David & Isabel Etter
1997 – Robert Hoffman
1996 – M. Randy Tice
1995 – Jan Boyer
1994 – Robert J Phillips
1993 – Joseph White
1992 – Jody Kasperowicz
1991 – William Wertz
1990 – H. Lee Moyer
1989 – Merritt Marks