An expanded obituary project of
MennObits. Includes additional information of obituaries
appearing in
The Mennonite and other newspapers. Source of
individual obituaries given with each record. Project managed by
Thelma Martin.
2022
A to B1
Albrecht, Ruth Roes
March 9, 1934 to March 29, 2022
Ruth Albrecht of Millbank, passed away peacefully at Stratford General Hospital on Tuesday March 29, 2022 at the age of 88. Ruth was a member of the former Riverdale Mennonite Church where she was involved with the Sewing Circle and Food Committee. Ruth loved to travel and spend time at the trailer in Goderich, and cherished the time spent with her family, especially her grandchildren.
Beloved wife of the late Sam Albrecht who predeceased her in 2012. Loving mother of Richard (Donna) of Beiseker AB, Ken of Millbank, Don of New Hamburg, Steve of Woodstock, Darlene (Dan) Ramer of Millbank. Grandma of Amanda (Justin), Natasha, Stephanie, Nathan (Amanda), Brad (Krystle), Jason (Stephanie), Zach (Alexxa) and great grandma of 9. Fondly remembered by her brother Melvin (Marietta) Roes, her sister Erma (Stanley) Gerber and many nieces and nephews.
Predeceased by her parents Isaac and Mattie (Jantzi) Roes, sons Ronald and Bruce in infancy, daughter-in-law Brenda Albrecht, sister Laurene and her husband Arthur Gerber, sisters-in-law Mary Roes, Nancy and her husband Joe Kipfer and brother-in-law Elmer Albrecht.
Relatives and friends are invited to share their memories at Milverton Christian Fellowship, 6619 Perth Road 131, Milverton on Friday April 1 from 2 to 4 and 6 to 9 p.m. The funeral service to celebrate Ruth’s life will be held at the Church on Saturday April 2, 2022 at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Alvin Kuepfer officiating. Interment in Riverdale Mennonite Cemetery, Millbank.
As expressions of sympathy, memorial donations to: Gospel Echoes Prison Ministries, Millbank, ON or Christian Aid Ministries, Moorefield, ON
Alderfer, Ralph C.
June 20, 1940 - June 29, 2022
Ralph C. Alderfer, 82, of Souderton, PA went home to be with the Lord on Wednesday, June 29, 2022. He was the loving husband of Doris S. Kolb.
Ralph graduated from Christopher Dock Mennonite High School, class of 1958. He then graduated from Eastern Mennonite University, class of 1963 & University of Iowa, class of 1967.
Ralph was employed as a Music & Math Teacher for Iowa Mennonite High School & Christopher Dock Mennonite High School. He was a member of Ambler Mennonite Church.
Ralph was the Conductor of the Franconia Lancaster Choral Singers since 1995.
A visitation will be held on Thursday, July 7, 2022 at Towamencin Mennonite Church, 1980 Sumneytown Pike, Kulpsville, PA 19443 from 9:30AMm - 11:00 AM, followed by a funeral service at 11:00 AM. The services will be livestreamed.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: Mennonite Central Committee, 21 S. 12th Street, Akron, PA 17501.
Arrangements by: Anders-Detweiler Funeral Home & Crematory, 130 East Broad Street, Souderton, Pennsylvania 18964.
Amstutz, Paul D.
June 1, 1931 - September 6, 2022
Paul D. Amstutz, 91, of Dalton, passed away on Tuesday, September 6, 2022 at the home of his son.
He was born near Dalton on June 1, 1931 to the late Daniel F. and Eva (Gerber) Amstutz and married Edith Horst on April 26, 1951. She died September 17, 2018.
In his youth, he committed his life to the Lordship of Christ and was a faithful member of the County Line Mennonite Church.
He is survived by 4 children, Elaine (Clarence) Steiner of Apple Creek, Tim (Rebecca) Amstutz of Dalton, Margaret (Lee) Lehman of Chambersburg, PA and Wilda (Elwood) Horst of North Lawrence; a daughter-in-law, Arlene (late Homer) Amstutz of Dalton; 39 grandchildren; 75 great grandchildren; brothers, Earl (Rosina) Amstutz and David (Amanda) Amstutz; and numerous nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by a son, Homer D. Amstutz in 2014; and brothers, Lester, Marvin and John; and a sister, Ruth Hershberger.
Services will be held on Saturday, September 10, 2022, at 10:00 am at the County Line Mennonite Church, 19199 Church Road, Dalton, with the church ministry officiating. Burial will follow in the adjoining cemetery. Friends may call on Friday, September 9, 2022, from 2-4 and 6-8:00 PM at the church. Spidell Funeral Home in Mount Eaton is handling the arrangements.
Memorial contributions may be made to Ohio's Hospice LifeCare, 1900 Akron Road, Wooster, OH 44691 or County Line Mennonite Church, c/o David Steiner, 16635 Church Road, Dalton, OH 44618.
Amstutz, Rosina Steiner
March 15, 1929 - November 2, 2022
Rosina Steiner Amstutz was born in Dalton, Ohio, on March 15, 1929, to the late Menno and Sarah Nussbaum Steiner. She passed away at home on Wednesday, November 2, 2022, at the age of 93 years, 7 months and 18 days.
She was baptized in her youth and was a faithful member of the Bethel Mennonite Church.
On April 22, 1954, she married Earl J. Amstutz, and they enjoyed 68 years together.
In addition to her husband, she is survived by a son, James (Sylvia) Amstutz of Dalton, OH; seven daughters, Judith (James) Campbell of Clear Spring, MD, Susan Amstutz of Dalton, OH, Rachel (Merlin) Danner of New Oxford, PA, Loretta (Allen) Derstine of Athens, WI, Beulah (Dale) Dueck of Mt. Crawford, VA, Marilyn (Norman) Beachy of St. Ansgar, IA and Dorcas Amstutz of Dalton, OH; 46 grandchildren; 80 great grandchildren; a sister, Idella Snavely of Orrville, OH; two sisters-in-law, Dorothy Steiner of Dalton, OH and Barbara Steiner of Kidron, OH.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by two grandsons, Owen Amstutz and Gabriel Beachy; brothers, Samuel, Lester, Allen, Melvin, Menno Jr. and Aldis; and sisters, Ella Steiner, Levina Steiner, Martha Geiser, Esther Geiser, Ida Steiner, Annie Neuenschwander and Sarah Steiner.
Viewing will be held at Bethel Mennonite Church, 13128 Goudy Road, on Sunday, November 6, 2022 from 2-4:00 pm and 6-8:00 pm.
Funeral will be held at the East Union Mennonite Church, 10678 E. Old Lincoln Way, Orrville, on Monday, November 7, 2022 at 10:00 am. Spidell Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.
Posted online on November 03, 2022
Augspurger, Dawn Lynn Haarer
February 25, 1956 - September 22, 2022
Dawn Lynn Augspurger, 66, of Elkhart, passed away at her home on Thursday, September 22, 2022. She was born in Goshen on February 25, 1956 to William H. and Shirley D. (Miller) Haarer, Jr. On March 6, 1993, she married Bradley A. Augspurger at her parents' home in Sarasota, Florida. He survives at their Elkhart home after nearly 30 wonderful years together.
Besides Brad and her parents, Dawn is survived by her sisters Connie S. Troyer and Sherri E. (Steve) Beiler and her brother William K. (Pat) Haarer; all of Sarasota. Also surviving are 11 nieces and nephews and a host of cousins and extended family.
Dawn's family moved to Sarasota from Indiana in 1961, where she grew up with her three younger siblings. After graduating high school in 1974, she completed a nursing program at Manatee Junior College and later graduated from the University of Florida.
In her twenties, Dawn moved back to Indiana for a few years to renew childhood friendships with her cousins in the area. She met Brad while she was making plans to return to Sarasota. They became a couple, made a home and remained in Elkhart another 30 years.
Family gatherings with cousins were a frequent occurrence. Dawn liked to supply the relish tray, which usually ended up being an "all-day buffet". After dinner, it was her delight to plan and provide creative activities to do with the children.
Dawn worked as a senior systems analyst at Beacon Health Systems where she worked for over 30 years. Many of her colleagues became good friends. The love and support she felt from them was a source of strength for her through these last months.
The family wishes to express their sincere gratitude to the staff at the Goshen Center for Cancer Care for the kindness and compassion shown to Dawn and Brad.
At Dawn's request, services will be held privately. Those wishing to honor her life may do so by donating to the Faith Mission or to Church Community Services, both of Elkhart. Billings Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Elkhart has been assisting the family.
Auker, Gloria S.
(16 mo.) - May 6, 2022
Gloria S. Auker, 16 months, of Ephrata, passed away on Friday, May 6, 2022, at Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, from complications during surgery.
She was born in Hershey to Larry M. and Edna S. (Sensenig) Auker. She was diagnosed with DiGeorge Syndrome soon after birth, needing much hospital care.
She attended Stauffer Mennonite Church.
In addition to her parents, Gloria is survived by five siblings, Katie S., Marlin S., Alice S., Ruthann S., Mahlon S. Auker, all at home; paternal grandparents, Russel and Ruth Auker of Lyndonville, NY; maternal grandmother, Susannah Sensenig of Ephrata, and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.
She was preceded in death by her maternal grandfather, Frank M. Sensenig.
A viewing will be held on Tuesday, May 10, 2022, from 1 to 3 and 5 to 8 pm, at the residence of Larry M. Auker, 240 Frysville Road, Ephrata. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, May 11, 2022, at 8:45 at the residence of Larry M. Auker with further services at 9:30 am, from the Stauffer Mennonite Church, 28th Division Highway, Ephrata. Interment will take place in the adjoining church cemetery.
Kindly omit flowers.
Arrangements by Stradling Funeral Homes, Inc., Akron/Ephrata.
Auker, Ivan S.
July 7, 1937 - September 3, 2022
Ivan S. Auker, 85, of Ephrata, passed away on Saturday, September 3, 2022, at his home.
Born in Ephrata Township, he was a son of the late Ammon Burkhart and Mary (Shaub) Auker and shared 44 years of marriage with his wife Minnie M. (Stauffer) Auker.
He was a member of Stauffer Mennonite Church.
In addition to his wife, Ivan is survived by six children, Daniel, husband of the late Eileen (Martin) Auker of Orleans Co., NY, Allen, husband of Sarah (Sensenig) Auker of Ephrata, Bertha, wife of Irvin Martin, Eva, wife of Curvin Martin, Ammon, husband of Erla (Martin) Auker, all of New York, James Auker, at home; 39 grandchildren; eight siblings, Grace Stauffer of Leonard, MN, John, husband of Naomi Auker, Ruth Auker, Edna Auker, all of Port Trevorton, Miriam Auker of Ephrata, Ellen, wife of Alvin S. Zimmerman of New York, Thomas Auker of Ephrata, Nancy, wife of Wayne Stauffer of Port Trevorton and a sister-in-law, Mary Auker of Ephrata.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two sisters, Lizzie Mae, wife of the late David Weaver, Sara, wife of the late Luke Zimmerman and a brother, Edwin S. Auker.
A viewing will be held on Friday, September 9, 2022, from 1 to 3 and 5 to 7 PM at the late residence, 332 E. Mohler Church Road, Ephrata. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, September 10, 2022, at 8:30 AM from the late residence with further services at 9:30 AM at the Stauffer Mennonite Meeting House, Route 322, East Earl. Interment will take place in the adjoining church cemetery.
Kindly omit flowers.
Arrangements by Stradling Funeral Homes, Inc., Akron/Ephrata.
Auker, Ralph L.
July 31, 1924 - November 13, 2022
Ralph L. Auker, 98, formerly of New Holland, passed away on November 13, 2022 at Wellspan Ephrata Hospital.
Born in Elizabeth Township, he was the son of the late Harry and Fannie (Dunmoyer) Auker.
He was the loving husband of the late Mary K. (Good) Auker whom he married on December 8, 1945, and they shared sixty-two years of marriage until the time of her passing on June 16, 2008.
He was a member of Weaverland Anabaptist Faith Community Church and was employed by the former Martin Limestone for forty-four years as a truck driver and part time for five years as a shop courier, until his retirement in 1991. He was a member of Stony Brook Hunting Camp in Lycoming County, and he enjoyed taking drives around the town, watching the hockey games every Saturday night, watching the Phillies and completing puzzles.
Ralph is survived by his daughter: Trudy wife of Richard M. Weaver of Ephrata, his daughter-in-law: Dorothy (Musser) Auker of New Holland, grandchildren: Amy Auker wife of Matthew Snyder, Marjorie wife of Nathan Rutkowski, Chad Weaver, Kristi wife of Chad Priddy, Charles Eckenroth and Christopher Eckenroth, eight great grandchildren and one great great grandchild.
In addition to his wife and parents, he is predeceased by his son: Barry Auker.
A funeral service will be held on Thursday, November 17, 2022 at 11:00 AM at Weaverland Anabaptist Faith Community Church, 210 Weaverland Valley Road, East Earl, PA 17519. There will be a viewing held for one hour prior to the time of service. Burial will be held in the adjoining church cemetery.
Groff High Funeral Home in New Holland is entrusted with the funeral arrangements.
Baer, Glenn Joseph
September 16, 1941 - February 25, 2022
Glenn Joseph Baer, 80, of Conrath, peacefully passed away at home surrounded by family on Friday, Feb. 25, 2022.
Glenn was born on Sept. 16, 1941, Fayetteville, Pa. He married Carolyn Abbie Witmer on Sept. 12, 1961. Five children were born to them: Judith, Jennifer, Leland, Charlotte and Anthony.
He will be missed by his wife, Carolyn, and by his family, daughter Judith (Wilmer) Rohrer of Cadott, daughter Jennifer (Phil) Neuenschwander of Apple Creek, Ohio, son Leland (Evie) Baer of Powell, Wyo., son-in-law Gary Bear of Thorp, son Anthony (Lovina) Baer of Conrath, 35 grandchildren, 26 great-grandchildren, six sisters, Fern (Isaac) Martin of Unity, Elizabeth (the late Clarence) Miller of McBride, British Columbia, Mary (Alan) Priest of Danskin, British Columbia, Karen Baer of McBride, British Columbia, Miriam (the late Dale) Steiner of Salmon Arm, British Columbia, and Thelma (Earl) Hostetter of Gardners, Pa., and three brothers, Neil (Josie) Baer of Red Deer, Alberta, Lyle (Miriam) Baer of Two Hills, Alberta, Arlan (Janet) Baer of McBride, British Columbia, and many friends.
Glenn was preceded in death by his parents, Harry E. and Thelma G. (Horst) Baer; his daughter, Charlotte Bear and grandson, Bryant Rohrer.
Glenn was an avid reader, loved telling stories and traveling. He enjoyed raising animals and growing fruits and vegetables.
Calling hours will be at Shiloh Mennonite Church, W7385 Co. Rd. I, Conrath, on Wednesday, March 2, from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. The funeral will also be held at Shiloh Mennonite Church on March 3, at 10:30 a.m. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.
The Nash-Jackan Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.
Bair, Georgiane Musselman
August 24, 1925 - December 15, 2022
Georgiane Musselman Bair, age 97, passed away peacefully on December 15, 2022, at Mennonite Home after a brief illness.
She was born in Lancaster County on August 24, 1925 to the late Ivan and Charity Bair.
She graduated from New Holland High School in 1943. During her young life she lived with her parents in New Holland and Leola, Pennsylvania. There she was able fulfill her love of cats by breeding Angora cats. As a young woman, she worked in the office at Vanity Fair in New Holland. Georgiane loved to travel, visiting California, Niagara Falls and Florida. Her favorite times were shopping at Boscov's and going to the Jersey Shore.
Her later life was spent at Woodcrest Villa and Mennonite Home. She was a lifetime member of Stumptown Mennonite Church.
Georgiane is survived by two cousins, George Samuel Shenk (Carol) of Valencia, Pennsylvania and John Musselman (Sherry) of New Holland, Pennsylvania, and many second cousins.
Family and friends will celebrate her life at a private service in the New Year. Her final resting place is in Groffdale (Brick) Mennonite Cemetery, Leola. Furman's Leola
Bare, Evelyn M. Leaman
November 27, 1931 - January 30, 2022
Evelyn M. Bare, 90, a resident of Garden Spot Village, passed away on Sunday, January 30, 2022 at Lancaster General Hospital. She was granted her wish to go home to be with Jesus.
She was the wife of the late Earl S. Bare who died in 2004. Born in Goodville, she was the daughter of the late Clayton D. and Esther Martin Leaman.
Evelyn had worked for many years at the Agway in New Holland. She was a member of the Weaverland Anabaptist Faith Community and had been attending Stumptown Mennonite Church for a number of years. She enjoyed flowers, cooking, bird watching, photography, traveling, and keeping in touch with family and friends. In her retirement years she volunteered at County Gift and Thrift.
Surviving is a step-son, Richard Bare; two step grandchildren, Chandel Bare and Jason Bare; a step great grandchild, Gwen Bare; a sister, Dorothy wife of Horace Wanner of New Holland; and two brothers, Mark husband of Brenda Leaman of East Earl, and Paul Leaman of Terre Hill. She was preceded in death by an infant sister, Irene Leaman and by brothers, Luke Leaman, Roy Leaman, Clayton Leaman, and Elmer Leaman.
A Funeral Service will be held on Friday, February 4, at 10:00 A.M. at the Weaverland Anabaptist Faith Community, 210 Weaverland Valley Road, East Earl, PA with Pastors Keith Nyce and John Leaman officiating. Interment in the adjoining church cemetery. A Viewing will be held at the church on Friday from 9:30 A.M. until the time of the service. In lieu of flowers, contributions in her memory may be made to Mennonite Central Committee, P.O. Box 500, Akron, PA 17501-0500. To send an online condolence to the family, visit www.GroffEckenroth.com Arrangements by the Groff High Funeral Home, New Holland, PA.
Bauman, Edna W.
December 13, 1955 – December 23, 2022
Edna Bauman of Wallenstein passed away peacefully at her home on December 23, 2022, at the age of 67 years. Sister of Elam and Minerva of Fergus, Rebecca of Wallenstein, Katie and Murray of Millbank, Alice, Anna, and Sarah of Wallenstein, Melvin and Sharon Martin of Millbank.
Remembered by 12 nieces and nephews, 36 great-nephews and nieces, and one great-great-niece.
Predeceased by her parents Moses and Barbara (Wideman) Bauman, Lucinda Martin, Louisa and Mervin Gingrich, two nephews, and one great-niece in infancy.
The family will receive relatives and friends on Tuesday, December 27, 2022 from 1-4 and 6-8 p.m. at the Dreisinger Funeral Home, 62 Arthur St. S., Elmira. A private family service will be held in the funeral home chapel on Wednesday, December 28, 2022 at 9 a.m. then to Elmira Mennonite Meeting House for burial and public service.
Beachy, Joseph A.
January 23, 1927 — October 6, 2022
Kalona, Iowa - Joseph A. Beachy was born January 23, 1927, in rural Kalona, Iowa, the son of Ananias J. and Ella Mae (Shetler) Beachy. Joe died on Thursday, October 6, 2022, at Pleasantview Home in Kalona, Iowa at the age of 95 years.
He attended Evergreen rural school. On August 31, 1950 he was united in marriage to Mary Miller in Partridge, Kansas. They moved to the Kalona area in 1957. Joe was an entrepreneur and owned Joes Appliance Barn for 20 years along with a watch and clock repair shop for 55 years.
Joe is survived by his wife of 72 years Mary (Miller) Beachy and eight children: Landon (Carolyn) Beachy of Kalona IA, Kenneth (Twila) Beachy of Kalona IA, Lloyd (Joyce) Beachy of Kitchener Ontario Canada, Edith (Loyal) Bacher of Westminster SC, Donald (Doris) Beachy of Denver PA, Ellis (Mary) Beachy of Atmore AL, Evan (Laverta) Beachy of Kalona IA, Marvin (Suzanne) Beachy of London OH; 22 grandchildren, 32 great grandchildren; a sister Esther Zook of Kalona.
He is preceded in death by his parents, two sisters Mary Miller and Fannie Miller, six brothers Ray, John, Glen, Earl, Jonas and Jesse Beachy.
A Funeral Service will be held 10:00 a.m. Friday, October 14, 2022, at the Fairview Mennonite Church in Kalona IA. Pastor Floyd Helmuth and Marv Bender will officiate. Burial will be in the East Union Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 2:00-4:00 p.m. and 6:00-8:00 p.m. on Thursday, October 13, 2022, at the Yoder-Powell Funeral Home.
A memorial fund has been established for Wycliffe Bible Translators and Rosedale International. The Yoder-Powell Funeral Home is caring for Joseph and his family.
Beachy, Larry Dale
July 19, 1942 - April 29, 2022
Larry Dale Beachy, 79 of Arcola, Illinois passed away at 7:30 P.M. on Friday, April 29, 2022 at Aspen Creek Assisted Living in Sullivan, Illinois.
Graveside services will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Thursday, May 5, 2022 in the Arthur Cemetery. Lamar Miller will officiate. Military Rites will be conducted by the Arthur VFW.
Larry was born on July 19, 1942 in Arthur, Illinois. He was a son of Noah Edward and Elizabeth J (Blucker) Beachy. He married Myra Elston Williams on March 20, 2004 in Arcola Illinois. She passed away on December 30, 2021.
He is survived by his daughter, Alena Jones of Villa Grove, IL, two stepdaughters, Jeanette Suding of Sullivan, IL and Tara Reed and her husband Charles of Villa Grove, IL, two grandchildren, Tyler Jones and Sophie Jones, nine step grandchildren, 15 step great-grandchildren, two brothers, Leonard Beachy and his wife Judy of Arthur, IL and Phil Beachy and his wife Dee, of Bradenton, FL, and one sister, Debbie Miller of Arthur, IL.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, a grandson, Brenden Jones and a brother-in-law, Ben Miller.
Larry was an Army Veteran serving from 1966 to 1968, in Ethiopia Africa, ranking PVT-E4. He then served the next two years state side in the reserves, where he received an honorable discharge.
Larry graduated from Eastern Illinois University. He was a member of the Arthur Mennonite Church.
Larry was a truck driver for many years. He had worked as a maintenance assistant at the Arthur Home. In his early days, Larry worked as an iron worker and welder.
Larry enjoyed antiquing and traveling. Larry was very handy, he loved tinkering around with all kinds of different gadgets. He enjoyed breakfast at the Henhouse with friends and enjoyed serving alongside his wife during the Raggedy Ann Festival.
Memorials may be made to the donor’s choice.
Bechler, Irene Marie Springer
September 25, 1928 - February 27, 2022
Irene Marie (Springer) Bechler, 93, Goshen, died 3:30 a.m., Sunday, February 27, 2022, at her home. She was born September 25, 1928, in Saybrook, Illinois, to Theodore & Leah L. (Naffziger) Springer. On August 24, 1950, she married LeRoy Bechler.
Surviving are her husband, LeRoy, Goshen, children, Kathleen (Michael) Lechlitner, Greenville, South Carolina, Kent (Karen) Bechler, Glendora, California, Curt (Shari) Bechler, Hudsonville, Michigan, grandchildren, Kyle (Devany) Bechler, California, Joshua (Jessica) Lechlitner, South Carolina, Kameron (Linnea) Bechler, California, Kevin (Rachael) Bechler, California, Christian Bechler, California, Connor (Jaci) Bechler, Kentucky, 7 great-grandchildren, sister-in-law, Eileen Springer, Eureka, Illinois, siblings, Bill (Darlene) Springer, Baton Rouge, Louisiana and Merle (Joan) Springer, Austin, Texas.
Preceding her in death are her parents and brothers, Myron, Robert & Paul.
Irene graduated from Hesston with an AA, Pepperdine University with a BS and California State University with a MA. She was a teacher, counselor and a member of College Mennonite Church, Goshen. She was involved in the jail ministry and Mennonite Women USA.
Irene enjoyed singing, sewing, playing piano, crossword puzzles and traveling. She especially enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
A Celebration of Life will be 2 p.m. Sunday, March 27, 2022, at College Mennonite Church, 1900 S. Main St., Goshen. Pastors Phil Waite and Pamela Yoder will officiate. A family burial at Violett Cemetery will be prior to the service. Memorial donations may be directed to Mennonite Mission Network.
Rieth Rohrer Ehret Funeral Home, Goshen, is handling arrangements
Bechtel, Jeannette Rose Sprunger
May 11, 1940 - May 17, 2022
Jeannette Rose Bechtel, 82, of Goshen, died on Tuesday, May 17, 2022 at Greencroft Goshen Health Care, succumbing to the traumatic brain injury she suffered in a fall on April 25. She was born May 11, 1940 in Vanga, Belgian Congo to missionaries Vernon and Lilly (Bachman) Sprunger. After meeting the love of her life at Camp Friedenswald, she married Thomas Bechtel in Goshen on June 24, 1962.
Surviving is her husband, Tom, of 61 years, two children, Christine (Harley) Bontrager of Goshen and Scott (Kimberle) of Celebration, Florida; five grandchildren, Breanna Bechtel of Ocoee, Florida and Dalton Bechtel of Celebration, Florida, Sabrina Simms of Bloomington, Natasha (Ken) Overmyer of Nappanee, and Jarin Bontrager of Bloomington and a great-granddaughter, Ellelana Overmyer; a brother, Wilmer (Kenlyn) Sprunger of Berne, a sister, Shirley (Vernon) King of Goshen and a sister-in-law, Geraldine (Charles) Sprunger of Lansdale, Pennsylvania.
She was preceded in death by her parents, two brothers; Charles and David Sprunger, and a grandson, Nicholas Simms.
Jeannette graduated from Central School in Lubondai, Belgian Congo in 1958 and Bluffton University (College) in 1963. After her graduation, Jeannette and Tom went to Leopoldville, Kinshasa, Zaire, as volunteers with the Mennonite Central Committee. When they completed their two years of service, they settled in Goshen where she was employed at Eighth Street Mennonite Church as the Administrative Assistant and was actively involved in starting the Preschool at the church.
Jeannette loved music and taught piano for over 20 years. She attempted to teach piano to her children and encouraged them to learn other musical instruments, but sadly, they lacked the musical gene that is prevalent on the Sprunger side of the family. She was active at Eighth Street Mennonite Church, providing leadership for numerous women’s organizations and committees. As a 4-H Saddle Club mom, she volunteered many hours and cheered on her children as they competed. When she became a grandmother, she loved her grandchildren unconditionally, and took them camping – making sure to take them to places they would enjoy and created special memories for all. After retirement, she enjoyed traveling and camping with many close friends and made sure to check off almost all of the items on her “Bucket List”, as she called it.
Memorial donations can be made to Camp Friedenswald, Eighth Street Preschool, or Africa Inter Mennonite Mission.
A service celebrating Jeannette’s life will be held at Eighth Street Mennonite Church, 602 S 8th Street, Goshen, where she was a member, on Monday, May 23, 2020, at 10:30 a.m., followed by a graveside service and burial in Violett Cemetery. Viewing and family visitation will be at Yoder-Culp Funeral Home on Saturday, May 21, 2022, from 5:00-7:00 p.m., and Sunday, May 22, from 1:00-4:00 p.m.
Beck, Gregory Jay
April 1, 1947 - February 25, 2022
Gregory Jay Beck, age 74 of Elkhart, IN, died at 5:00am on Friday, February 25, 2022. He was born on April 1, 1947 to Orval and Elizabeth (Schrock) Beck in Elkhart, IN. Gregory graduated from Bethany Christian High School in 1966 and was a lifelong resident of the Elkhart County area. On November 16, 1968, Gregory married Karen Kohl in Toledo, OH.
Mr. Beck worked for 21 years in the RV Industry, primarily at Yellowstone. He worked in maintenance and as a locksmith at Greencroft for the last 32 and a half years. Greg did voluntary service through the Mennonite Church at Kansas City Children’s Home in Kansas City, KS for 6 months, and at Sunshine Children’s Home in Maumee, OH for 18 months. Mr. Beck was a member of Holdeman Mennonite Church in Wakarusa, IN, where he served as a Trustee, sound tech, and worked with his wife to coordinate funeral meals for more than 25 years. Greg enjoyed tractor pulling, trains, tinkering around in his shop, woodworking, and most of all, spending time with his children and grandchildren.
Gregory is survived by his wife, Karen Beck of Elkhart; daughter, Tammy Beck of Elkhart; son, Ryan (Sandy) Beck of Goshen; son Jeremi Beck of Bristol, IN; 12 grandchildren, Isaiah Markham, Dwight Markham, and Christopher (Camaree Banks) Markham; Jamie (Jenna) Beck, Haley (Lucas Allberry) Bryan, EmiLee (Jakob Hostetler) Beck, Nathaniel Beck, and Ariel (Chris Estrada) Beck; 1 great grandson, Jayson Beck and is expecting a great granddaughter, Carter Elizabeth Estrada; siblings: Duane (Kathy) Beck of Goshen, IN; Kathleen (Terry) Martin of Knoxville, TN; Nedra (Les) Gnagey of Goshen, IN; and Max (Melanie) Beck of Goshen, IN; a brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Bobby and Linda Kohl of Elkhart, IN; and many nieces and nephews.
Friends and family may call on Monday, February 28, 2022 from 2-4pm and 6-8pm at Holdeman Mennonite Church (65723 Co Rd 1, Wakarusa, IN 46573). The family requests that to honor Greg, people dress casual for visitation and funeral. Funeral services will be at 10am on Tuesday, March 1, 2022 at the Holdeman Mennonite Church, with an hour of visitation prior from 9-10am. Pastor BJ Leichty will officiate and burial will follow at Olive West Cemetery. Memorials can be made in Gregory’s name to Holdeman Mennonite Church for the sound system or The Crossing.
Beechy, Edwin E.
April 22, 1958 - January 24, 2022
Edwin E. Beechy, 63, of Millersburg, passed away with his family at his side at 6:10 pm on Monday, January 24, at Parkview Regional Medical Center, Fort Wayne. He had been in declining health the past two weeks. He was born on April 22, 1958 in Elkhart County to Elva and Beulah (Mast) Beechy. On August 13, 1977 in Elkhart County, he married Carolyn Chupp, she survives.
Survivors in addition to his wife are a daughter, Maria (James) Hostetler of Ligonier; a son, Adrian (Jennifer) Beechy of Shipshewana; seven grandchildren, Evan, Kayla, Kaiden and Ember Beechy, Tristan, Cedric and Kiersten Hostetler; two sisters, Esther Yoder of Millersburg and Freida Katsaros of Sarasota, FL; four brothers, Robert Beechy of Florahome, FL, Harley (Jennifer) Beechy of Millersburg, Bill (Kim) Beechy of Bell, FL, and Floyd (Michelle) Beechy of Millersburg.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Ed was the owner and operator of Beechy Transport for many years. He had many talents and enjoyed tinkering with many things, including, trucks, tractors and building cages. He trained homing pigeons and loved spending time with his grandchildren. He was a member of the Woodlawn Church.
Visitation will be from 5:00 - 8:00 pm on Thursday, January 27, and 2:00 - 4:00 and 6:00 - 8:00 pm Friday, January 28, at Woodlawn (Mennonite) Church, 62861 CR 41 Goshen. Funeral services will be at 10:00 am on Saturday, January 29, also at the church. Services will be conducted by the Woodlawn Church Pastoral Team. Burial will be in Woodlawn Cemetery, Goshen. Memorials may be given to World Missionary Press or Christian Aid Ministries.
Beiler, Betty Jane Reiff
December 18, 1941 - December 14, 2022
Betty Jane Beiler of Morgantown went to be with Jesus at the age of 80. She died Wednesday, December 14, 2022, at Penn State St. Joseph's Medical Center, Reading. Born in New Holland, she was the daughter of the late Amos and A. Grace (Esbenshade) Reiff. She is survived by her loving husband, Vernon Beiler, of 62 years. During their years of marriage, they were rarely seen apart.
Betty and Vernon met and fell in love in 1957 and were married three years later. Betty loved taking care of her family. She found joy in raising her children on the family farm. Although farm life was not always easy, working as a family unit made it enjoyable. She commented, "The best part of living on the farm was that Vernon was always there." She was happiest when surrounded by her family.
Betty was known for taking time to plan memorable family vacations and regular Sunday night games with life-long friends. She was an excellent cook and was always ready to welcome guests into her home for food and fellowship. She was a pillar of her church community, Grace and Truth Fellowship. She was a Godly woman who held firm to her convictions and faith.
Betty had a gift for organization and bookkeeping. She used this skill in managing the farm records, the Morgantown Airport, Ox Bow View and eventually working at the Morgantown Pharmacy.
In addition to her husband, she is survived by four children: Kevin (Pearl Stoltzfus) Beiler, Morgantown, Lynette (Rich) Garber, Kennett Square, Lurleen (Chance) Worthington, Doylestown, Brent Beiler, Selinsgrove, 10 grandchildren, nine great grandchildren, and four siblings: Titus (Miriam) Reiff, Charles (Brenda) Reiff, Amos Reiff, Jr. (preceded in death by Rose), and Darlene (Jesse) Weaver.
She was also preceded in death by an infant daughter, Laurlyn Faye Beiler.
Her funeral will be held on Thursday, December 22, 2022, at 11 a.m. at Conestoga Mennonite Church, 2779 Main St., Morgantown, with Pastor Lance Eisele officiating. Interment will follow in the adjoining church cemetery. A viewing will be held at the church on Wednesday from 6 8 p. m. and Thursday from 10 11 a.m. If desired, memorials may be sent to Grace & Truth Fellowship, 201 Walnut St., Morgantown, PA 19543. The Eckenroth Home for Funerals, Terre Hill, is in charge of arrangements.
Beiler, Jesse R.
October 2, 1945 - November 5, 2022
Jesse R. Beiler, 77, of Bethel, passed away on Saturday, November 5, 2022, at the Hershey Medical Center. He was the husband of Betty J. (Martin) Beiler.
Born in Lancaster on October 2, 1945, he was the son of the late John S. and Mary (Riehl) Beiler. Jesse had worked at Jonestown Ag. He was a member of the Sharon Mennonite Church.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by his sons Barry L. husband of Karen L. (Martin) Beiler of Fredericksburg and J. Michael husband of Mary Jane (Zimmerman) Beiler of Fredericksburg; daughters Darla S. wife of Evan L. Stump of Myerstown, Sheila M. Beiler of Bethel, Melissa J. Beiler of Lebanon, Janel J. wife of Justin M. Champ of Sun River, Montana and Bethany T. wife of Nathan S. Henne of Auburn; sisters Katie R. Glick of Bird-in-Hand, Mary R. wife of Joe Stoltzfus of Paradise and Emma R. wife of Jonas Riehl of Bird-in-Hand; twenty grandchildren, and sixteen great grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his son Philip R. Beiler and his brother Abram R. Beiler.
Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, November 9, 2022, at 10:00 a.m. at the Sharon Mennonite Church, 581 Union Rd., Lebanon. A viewing will be held on Tuesday from 2:00-4:00 p.m. and 6:00-8:00 p.m. at the Swatara Mennonite Church, 10 Camp Swatara Rd., Myerstown. Interment will be at the Wolfe's Union Meeting House Cemetery.
Kreamer & Lum Funeral Home & Crematory, Jonestown, is honored to serve the family.
Beiler, Rhoda N. Stoltzfus
May 28, 1933 - December 16, 2022
Rhoda N. Beiler, age 89, formerly of Gordonville, went to be with her Lord and Savior on Friday, December 16, 2022. She was the wife of the late D. George Beiler who passed away on September 25, 2020. Born in Leola, she was the daughter of the late Daniel S. & Sarah B. Stoltzfus Stoltzfus. She was a member of the Ridgeview Mennonite Church, where in the past she was a Sunday school teacher, member of the sewing circle and President of the Time Out Program. In the past Rhoda had worked in the deli department at the former Ferguson & Hassler Grocery Store of Quarryville. She was a chairperson of the Lancaster County Fresh Air Fund and volunteered on the Solanco Fair Kitchen Committee. She enjoyed flower gardening, quilting, was known for her gift of hospitality, and most of all she loved spending time with her children and grandchildren.
Surviving are 5 children: Yvonne wife of John Harvey Groff of Lancaster, Karen Beiler of Lancaster, Daniel husband of Priscilla Dienner Beiler of Lock Haven, Rosalyn wife of John Dienner of Bird In Hand, Derrell husband of Ginger Messner Beiler of Terre Hill, 11 grandchildren, 13 great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by 6 siblings: Wesley, Mark, Naaman, John Stoltzfus, Marian Yoder and Ann Stoltzfus.
Funeral service will be held at Ridgeview Mennonite Church, 3723 Ridge Road, Gordonville, PA, on Tuesday, December 20th at 10 a.m. Viewing will be held at the church on Monday, December 19th from 6 to 8 p.m. and again on Tuesday from 9 a.m. until time of service. Interment will be in the adjoining cemetery. Those who desire may make contributions in Rhoda's memory to "The Kingsman Fund" at Quarryville Presbyterian Retirement Community. The family would like to express their gratitude to the staff at Quarryville Presbyterian Retirement Community for the excellent care they provided for their mother.
Bender, Barbara Bontrager
July 22, 1927 - November 27, 2022
Barbara Bender, 95, of Elkhart, formerly of Middlebury, died at 3:34 pm, on Sunday, November 27, at Greenleaf Health Campus, Elkhart. She was born on July 22, 1927, in Independence, IA, to Martin and Lydia Ann (Yoder) Bontrager. On October 8, 1949, in Elkhart County, she married Omer Bender, he died December 13, 2016.
Surviving are three sons, Dale (Wanda) Bender of Shipshewana, Omer (Kristi) Bender of Knoxville, TN, Mark (Esther) Bender of Middlebury; six grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, four step grandchildren, nine step great-grandchildren; two sisters, Ann Knepp of Granger, Elva "Sammi" Reiff of Bristol; two brothers, Jonas Bontrager of Elkhart, Marty Bontrager of Shipshewana.
She was preceded in death by her husband; parents; two sons, John Bender, Duane Bender; step great-granddaughter, Jaelee Bender; seven brothers, Tobias Bontrager, Allen Bontrager, John Bontrager, Joe Bontrager, Marvin Bontrager, Edward Bontrager, Reuben Bontrager.
Barbara was a member of the former Forks Mennonite Church, a homemaker and worked at the Essenhaus Country Inn for 12 years. She enjoyed cooking and baking and was known for her hospitality and giving. Barbara leaves a legacy of faith and love and will be greatly missed by her family.
Visitation will be from 3:00 to 6:00 pm on Tuesday, November 29 and one hour prior to the 11:00 am funeral service on Wednesday, November 30 at Miller-Stewart Funeral Home, 1003 South Main Street, Middlebury. Services will be conducted by Pastor Ron Bontrager. Burial will be in Clinton Union Cemetery, Goshen. Memorials may be given to Faith Mission or Rainbow Years Learning Ministry.
Bender, Elizabeth Schlabach
January 21, 1928 - February 9, 2022
Elizabeth Bender, 94, of Topeka, died at 12:30 am, on Wednesday, February 9, in her home following a short illness. She was born on January 21, 1928, in LaGrange County, Sam A. and Edna (Yoder) Schlabach. On February 3, 1949, she married Elmer, Jr. Bender, he died February 2, 1986.
Surviving are three sons, Harry (Sara) Bender of Hicksville, OH, Harley (Ruth) Bender, Willie (Edith) Bender both of Shipshewana; three daughters, Sue (Mervin) Miller, Mary Edna (Vernon) Miller, Lorene (David) Beechy all of Topeka; 29 grandchildren, 111 great-grandchildren, two great-great grandchildren; three sisters, Edna Mast, Mattie Mullet, Katie (Felty) Fry all of Topeka.
She was preceded in death by her husband; parents; son, LaVern Bender; two daughters, Katie and Erma Bender; one brother, four sisters, one grandchild, and three great-grandchildren.
Elizabeth was a homemaker and a member of the Old Order Amish Church.
Visitation will be after 1:00 pm on Thursday, February 10 and all day Friday, February 11 at the Mervin Miller residence, 3583 W. 700 S., Topeka. Funeral services will be at 9:30 am on Saturday, February 12 at the Lynn Yoder residence, 3585 W. 700 S., Topeka. Services will be conducted by Bishop Christy Mast and grandsons, ministers Mervin Miller and Daryl Beechy. Burial will be in Miller Cemetery, LaGrange.
Bender, Lois J. Clymer
August 11, 1933 - August 21, 2022
Lois J. Bender, 89, of Harrisburg, PA, entered fully into the presence of the Lord at her home on Sunday, August 21, 2022. Born August 11, 1933, in Lancaster, she was a daughter of the late Martin and Mabel (Winey) Clymer.
She was preceded in death by her husband of 68 years, Ralph Bender and is survived by her 6 children, LuAnne (Rudy) Long, Roy (RuthAnn), Lori (Howard) Brown, Ron (Lori), Lonna (Duane) Zimmerman, and Lynnette (Michael) Parr. Lois was "Nana" to 22 grandchildren and 29 great-grandchildren. Also surviving are her 3 sisters, Esther Martin, Miriam Stoltzfus, and Catherine Holt.
Lois was a devoted wife, parent, caregiver and mentor for her family, friends and community. She and Ralph were active in the Morris Run, PA community and in their retirement years, they volunteered with Habitat for Humanity and Wycliffe Bible Translators in Florida, and SOOP in New Mexico. Lois and Ralph most recently settled in Harrisburg, PA where they were members at Steelton Mennonite Church. Their family is very appreciative for the numerous caregivers who doted on Lois and Compassus Hospice Services.
A private burial will be held at Shope's Mennonite Cemetery, Highspire, PA. A celebration of Life will be held Thursday, August 25, 2022, at 7:00 PM at Slate Hill Mennonite Church, 1352 Slate Hill Road, Camp Hill, PA 17011. The family will receive guests at 6:00 PM prior to the service.
Berkey, Jacquelyn "Jackie" Gray
July 19, 1935 - May 29, 2022
Jacquelyn “Jackie” Berkey, 86, of Goshen died peacefully Sunday, May 29, 2022 at Greencroft Healthcare.
A Native American, Jackie was born July 19, 1935 on the Chippewa Reservation, White Earth, Minnesota to Walter and Gladys (Friedman) Gray.
On March 28, 1958 she married Weldon A. Berkey in Goshen. He died December 10, 2020.
Survivors include a son, Scott (Laura) Berkey of Goshen; a daughter, Sheila (John) Cuneo of Derry, New Hampshire; five grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and a sister, Sharron Andorfer of Springfield, Ohio.
Along with her parents and husband, Jackie was preceded in death by a sister, Jeanne Stutzman, and a brother, Warren “Buck” Gray.
Mrs. Berkey worked as administrative assistant to the Elkhart County Soil and Water Department for many years. A member of East Goshen Mennonite Church, she served as church secretary, and volunteered at Switchboard Concern. Jackie was a faithful wife and loving mother and grandmother.
She enjoyed bowling, being with people, and had an infectious laugh.
Friends may call Wednesday, June 1, 2022 beginning at 12:30 p.m. at East Goshen Mennonite Church, 2019 E. Lincoln Ave., where a 1:30 p.m. funeral service will be held. Pastors Naomi Yoder and Merle Hostetler will officiate.
Burial will follow at Hess Cemetery, Goshen.
Memorial gifts may be directed to East Goshen Mennonite Church, 2019 E. Lincoln Ave., Goshen, IN 46528; http://www.eastgoshenmc.org.
Yoder-Culp Funeral Home is assisting with arrangements.
Bertsche, Lela Evaleen "Evie" Bachman
January 19, 1939 - February 3, 2022
Lela Evaleen (Evie) Bertsche, 83, passed away Thursday, February 3, 2022 at Greencroft Healthcare in Goshen, Indiana. She was born January 19, 1939 to Herman and Irma Countryman Bachman on their farm southwest of Pulaski, Iowa. She attended a one-room schoolhouse on the edge of the farm through eighth grade and was active in 4-H. She began piano lessons at a young age and later studied flute, and was chosen for the Iowa All-State Band two years. She graduated as valedictorian of her class at Bloomfield (Iowa) High School, then attended Bluffton College in Ohio as a business major. She was a member of a women’s vocal quartet that represented the college. On February 2, 1957, as a first-year college student, she went on a blind date with John David Bertsche, a former Bluffton student. After 19 months of dating, they were married at Pulaski (IA) Mennonite Church on September 6, 1958 and moved to a farm near Graymont, Illinois.
Evie worked as a secretary in a law office in Pontiac, Illinois for four years, then stayed at home to raise their three children and help on the farm. After their children were in school, she worked 17 years as bookkeeper and business office manager at Meadows Mennonite Retirement Community. She also served as organist, choir member, and member of several committees at Meadows Mennonite Church, in the leadership of Women in Mission of Central District Mennonite Conference, on the board of Camp Friedenswald, and as the Livingston County chairperson of the CROP Walk. At several times in their marriage, Evie and David did month-long volunteer assignments, including at Camp Friedenswald, Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary, and Mennonite Central Committee headquarters. She loved attending her children’s activities, baking, hosting people in their home, and laughing with friends. She and David traveled to all 50 states and many countries around the world. As grandchildren were added to the family, she loved having tea parties with them under the weeping willow tree on the farm, taking them on excursions, and attending their ballgames and concerts.
After her children finished their education, Evie went back to school at Illinois State University and completed undergraduate degrees in psychology and women’s studies in 1995, and a master’s degree in counseling in 1997. From 2001-2003, Evie and David served with Brethren Voluntary Service and Mennonite Mission Network as hosts of the World Friendship Center in Hiroshima, Japan, where they hosted 2000 guests from 47 countries in the guesthouse, taught conversational English classes, and engaged in a variety of peace activities. When they returned to the U.S., they settled in Goshen, Indiana near their children, and joined Eighth Street Mennonite Church. Evie was a leader in the Mennonite Women group, volunteered at Ten Thousand Villages and The Depot, and chaired the American Committee supporting the World Friendship Center in Hiroshima until dementia began to make those roles too difficult.
Evie is survived by her husband of 63 ½ years, David; children John David (Wilma) of Goshen, Janeen (Barry) Bertsche Johnson of Goshen, and Brian (Diane) of Mottville, MI; grandchildren April Bertsche, Wendy (Kyle) Romanko, Roger Bertsche, Hannah (Scott) Johnson-Gay, and Aaron (Kim) Johnson; great-grandchildren Riley, Layla, Addison, Trenton, Camden, Teydren, Kyla, Grayson, and Byron; exchange student Rosa Moosbrugger Schaiden of Bezau, Austria; sister Ermaleen Etter of Mechanicsburg, PA; brothers Fred Bachmann of Kalona, IA and Ed (Jan) Bachman of Agency, IA; sister-in-law Mary Anne Moser of Bluffton, OH; brothers-in-law Jerry (Nita) of Atlanta, GA, Joe (Judy) of Chenoa, IL, and Bob (Jody) of Aurora, CO; and many nieces and nephews.
A memorial service will be held at Eighth Street Mennonite Church in Goshen, Indiana on Saturday, April 23, 2022. Memorial contributions may be given to Bluffton University, Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary, Camp Friedenswald, or the World Friendship Center of Hiroshima.
Birky, Luke Amon
January 8, 1922 - September 3, 2022
Luke Amon Birky loved God, life, family, and the people he encountered throughout his life journey. He was a good listener, a safe and quiet presence, and was good at finding common ground when perspectives differed. He loved thinking about hard issues, and frequently posed thoughtful questions to stimulate a friendly conversation. Luke was a life-long learner, always finding new ways to accomplish difficult tasks with the resources on hand.
Born January 8, 1922 in Airlie, Oregon, he was the second child and son of Joseph Alvin and Sarah Alma (Kenagy) Birky. He spoke fondly of his childhood homes, many friends, communities, and a loving family. He attended 13 different schools before finishing school.
Luke was 19 years old when the United States entered World War II. He registered and was drafted as a conscientious objector in January 1943. He went to work in a Civilian Public Service (CPS) camp in LaPine, Oregon, helping build a reservoir. It was a new world and experience to live, work, and think with conscientious objectors from different states and different faith traditions. Later that year the LaPine CPS camp closed and he transferred to Belton, Montana to work in the maintenance shop. He applied and was accepted into smoke jumper school in January 1945. The school was a realized dream. The hikes and work necessary for trail maintenance and fighting forest fires were exhilarating experiences. Discharged in May 1946, he worked over the summer and entered Goshen College in the fall.
Luke met Verna Conrad at young people’s meeting at Fairview Mennonite Church in Oregon several years before he was drafted. They communicated while away from home and fell in love. In Luke’s first year of college, Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) asked him and Verna to consider an assignment at a hospital in LaPlata, Puerto Rico. They were married March 2, 1947 and attended orientation in Akron, PA before flying to Puerto Rico where Luke worked in maintenance services and Verna as an RN. Their first 4 children were born in the 6½ years they lived in LaPlata (The youngest was born later in Colorado.). Luke assumed the role of business office manager at the hospital in 1949. In 1953 he was asked to return to the United States and raise funds for a planned new Mennonite hospital in Aibonito, Puerto Rico. When he finished fund raising, the Mennonite Board of Missions and Charities asked Luke and Verna to move to La Junta, Colorado to study healthcare administration under the administrator of the Mennonite hospital. In 1955, a new hospital was completed in Rocky Ford, Colorado, and Luke assumed the role of administrator there. Three years later he became the administrator of the La Junta Hospital where he served until 1966.
Luke and Verna moved to Elkhart, Indiana in 1966 when Luke become Secretary of Health and Welfare for the Mennonite Board of Missions and Charities. He traveled and consulted with communities operating hospitals, care facilities, and retirement communities under the auspices of the Mennonite Church. In 1975 the Mennonite Home of Albany, a retirement community in Albany, Oregon, asked Luke to be the administrator. It was an opportunity to return home to Oregon, live near their aging parents and old friends again, and to travel less. He and Verna served in Albany until retiring in 1987. In a year of transition before full retirement, they worked for Goshen College as program directors for students studying in Costa Rica. They enjoyed their interaction with young people and using their Spanish language again. Returning to Oregon, Luke served as conference moderator for the Pacific Coast Mennonite Conference until 1993 when they moved to Goshen, Indiana to be near grandchildren. They became residents of Greencroft Retirement Community in 1999 and moved into assisted living in 2016 as Verna’s health declined. She died in October of 2017 after 70 years of marriage.
Luke was preceded in death by his wife, son Steve, parents, brother Elden and sisters Minerva, Ruth, and Lela, and one great-grandchild (Deanne Birky-Hartman). He is survived by his brother Wilbur of Goshen, Indiana. In addition, he is survived by children Karl Birky (Ginny) of Newberg, OR, Anne Birky (Goshen, IN), Kate Birky (Tim Welsh) of Payson, AZ, Rachel Hamilton (Steve) of Lake Elsinore, CA, and daughter-in-law Therese of Saverne, France. He is also survived by four grandchildren: Matthew Hamilton, Joseph Hamilton (Amy Epp), Angelique Birky-Hartmann (Simon Hartmann), Rosabeth Birky Koehn, and two great-grandchildren (Naomi Hamilton and Orie Hamilton).
Luke and Verna chose to follow God’s leading throughout their marriage and raised their children to be independent and caring. Even at the age of 100, Luke continued to use a computer, read theological books and articles, discuss moral actions, ride his trike, walk fast, and love God. He transitioned from this life to the next on September 3, 2022, leaving behind a legacy of a life well lived in the embrace of God.
Blosser, Glendon Lee
December 14, 1930 - June 14, 2022
Glendon Lee Blosser, 91, passed away Tuesday, June 14, 2022, at his home on Mount Clinton Pike in Harrisonburg, Va. Glendon, a longtime leader in the Mennonite church, was a devoted father, grandfather, cattle farmer and neighbor. He and his twin sister, Glennys, were born on Dec. 14, 1930, to Pauline (Heatwole) and Mahlon Blosser, all of whom preceded in death.
Glendon married Dorothy Nice on May 12, 1951, and for over 50 years they shared an extraordinary love for family and church and the land. Their four children survive: Floyd (Janet) Blosser of Harrisonburg, Diane (Ruel) Burkholder of Linville, Phil Blosser of Rockingham (Donna Blosser of Harrisonburg), and Myron (Rhonda) Blosser of Rockingham.
His 14 grandchildren remember fondly the regular gatherings with him at Mr. J's when they could discuss with Grandpa anything and everything about life: Jesse (Ellen) Blosser, Eric (Crystal) Blosser, Greg (Rae) Blosser, Jenny (Eric) Duvon, Julianne (Joel) Ross, Chris (Eliza) Burkholder, Monika Burkholder, Lucas (Jenn) Blosser, Nevin (Michaela) Blosser, Perry Blosser, Joelle Blosser, Kurtis (Casey) Blosser, Kelsey (Everett) Brubaker, and Bryce Blosser. Glendon is also survived by 20 great-grandchildren.
As a young man, Glendon responded to a call to ministry, an avocation that led him to pastor Zion Hill Mennonite Church in Singers Glen, to serve as overseer of the Central District of Virginia Mennonite Conference, and to work as moderator of the Mennonite Church. Glendon was a strong advocate for Christian education. He was also a charter board member for the Gemeinschaft Home. After retirement, he and Dorothy spent a year in Trinidad where they helped start a congregation and for a number of years provided resources to local church leaders.
Glendon’s love was large and his roots were deep. He was a life-long farmer who found satisfaction in being part of a family farm operation that spanned five generations and was known for its good neighbor policies.
A memorial service will be held Sunday, July 10, 2022, at 4:00 p.m. at Weavers Mennonite Church with visitation at Shady Oak prior to the service.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Mennonite Church of Trinidad, in care of Virginia Mennonite Missions, 601 Parkwood Drive, Harrisonburg, VA 22802.
Interment of ashes will be private at the Weavers Cemetery.
McMullen Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Blosser, Paul Jacob
July 3, 1935 - March 9, 2022
Paul Jacob Blosser, beloved husband of Wanda Miriam (Kropf) Blosser, was born July 3, 1935, to Joe and Katie (Hostetler) Blosser at Shelbyville, Illinois.
He peacefully passed away on March 9, 2022, at his home near Halfway, Missouri, at the age of 86 years, 8 months, and 6 days, from heart and kidney failure.
He accepted Christ at his personal Savior and was baptized in his youth. He was a member of the Pleasant View Amish Mennonite Church at Buffalo, MO, to which he remained faithful until death.
On September 8, 1957, he was united in marriage to Wanda Kropf, daughter of Alvin and Ella (Headings) Kropf, sharing the joys and sorrows of life together for 64 years and 6 months.
This union was blessed with 9 children, of which 8 survive: Susan and husband LaMar Kempf. Pocahontas, AR; daughter-in-law Verla Blosser wife of Maynard (deceased), Buffalo, MO; James and wife Elna, Sedalia, MO; Donald and wife Susan, El Dorado Springs, MO; Delbert and wife Charity, Halfway, MO; Samuel and wife LeAnna, Halfway, MO; Joseph and wife Roberta, Viola, AR; Merlin, of the home, Halfway, MO; and Mervin and wife Eunice, Deepwater, MO. Also 50 grandchildren, 63 great grandchildren; and one brother, Ernest Blosser, Tampico, IL.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his oldest son Maynard; and one grandson, Robert, who died in the same traffic accident as his father on August 1, 1990; 3 infant angels (great grand babies). Also, one sister, Dorothy Ellen Swartzentruber; and one brother, John David Blosser.
Grandpa had a sincere love and concern for his family and for the church, and that we all strive to come closer to God than we have until this time.
Since his heart attack, two weeks prior to his death, he was tenderly cared for by his children, with his loving companion by his side. He had a longing to leave his tired body and go meet his Lord and Savior.
A sincere thank you to brother Merlin, (who is a special blessing to the family), for always being willing to help where needed.
Funeral services will be at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, March 12, 2022 in Pleasant View Amish-Mennonite Church, Buffalo, under the direction of Fraker Funeral Home, Inc., Marshfield.
Interment will follow in Pleasant View Amish-Mennonite Cemetery.
Blosser, Vada R. Wenger
December 7, 1926 - May 4, 2022
Vada R. Blosser, 95, Wakarusa, died 2 p.m. Wednesday, May 4, 2022, at her home. She was born December 7, 1926, in St. Joseph County, to Charles & Goldie (Weldy) Wenger. On March 1, 1947, she married C. Raymond Blosser and he died November 17, 2003.
Surviving are daughters, Ilene Blosser, Wakarusa, Karen Slaven, New Paris, Cheryl (Bruce) Rechtsteiner, Wakarusa, son, Randy (Gail) Blosser, Goshen, 7 grandchildren, Dan (Cha), Dwayne, Adria, Abraham (Heather), Matthew, Naomi (Tom), Isaac (Grace), 7 great-grandchildren, siblings, Phyllis (Larry) Stauffer, Goshen, Larry (Terri) Wenger, Scottsdale, Arizona, sisters in law, Marlene Wenger, Wilma Wenger, Carolyn Wenger and a brother in law, John Nunemaker.
Preceding her in death are her parents, husband, Raymond, son in law, Dallas Slaven, siblings, Faye Yoder, Myrtle Kehr, Leota Yoder, Lester Wenger, Charles “Chuck” Wenger, Doris Nunemaker, Helen Alexander, David Wenger and Kenny Wenger.
Vada worked as a waitress at area restaurants and helped on the family farm. She was a member of Yellow Creek Mennonite Church and volunteered at The Depot and World Missionary Press.
Visitation will be 5-8 p.m. Monday, May 9, 2022, and one hour prior to the 11 a.m. funeral service on Tuesday, May 10, 2022, all at Yellow Creek Mennonite Church, 64901 CR 11, Goshen. Pastor Wes Bontreger will officiate. Burial will follow at Yellow Creek Cemetery. Memorial donations may be directed to the Center for Hospice Care, Elkhart.
Rieth Rohrer Ehret Lienhart Funeral Home, Wakarusa, is handling arrangements.
Boll, Esther Longenecker
February 12, 1932 - September 16, 2022
Esther L. Boll, 90, of Richland, PA, formerly of Manheim, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Friday evening, September 16, 2022, at Richland Christian Home following a period of declining health. Born in Elizabethtown, Lancaster County, she was the daughter of the late Grace E. (Landis) Longenecker and Amos Z. Longenecker. She was the wife of the late J. Richard Boll for 66 years prior to his death in 2021.
Esther was dedicated to her church and was a faithful member of New Haven Mennonite Church in Lititz. Along with her husband, she had a heart for missions and served at 6th Street Mission in Philadelphia for seven years. She loved her family and others.
She is survived by five children, Randy, husband of Rose Stauffer Boll, of Manheim, Thomas, husband of Deborah Garman Boll, of Denver, Lisa, wife of Lynn Horst, of Memphis, MO, Robert, husband of Miraflor Llenos Boll, of Lititz, and Grace, wife of Glenn Martin, of East Earl; a son-in-law, James Parish, husband of the late Audrey Boll Parish, of Lititz; 18 grandchildren; 18 great grandchildren; and three siblings, John L. Longenecker (Shirley), Paul L. Longenecker (Louise), and Martha Zook (Edward). She was also preceded in death by a grandson, Ryan Boll; and two siblings, Ruth Bechtold and Lois Hartzler.
A funeral service will be held on Friday, September 23, 2022, at 10:00 AM at New Haven Mennonite Church, 230 Crest Road, Lititz, PA with Amos Hurst, Barry Zeiset, Marvin Zeiset, and Edward Zook officiating. Interment will be in the adjoining cemetery. The family will receive guests during a public viewing at the church on Thursday from 5-8:00PM and on Friday morning from 9:00 AM until the time of the service. Please omit flowers. If desired, contributions may be made to Mid-Atlantic Mission Board, 187 North Windy Mansion Road, Reinholds, PA 17569.
Bomberger, Doris Allegra Good
September 13, 1931 - May 14, 2022
Doris Allegra Good Bomberger, age 90, died at Sentara-RMH on May 14, 2022. She was the daughter of Ella K. Shenk and Noah G. Good. She was born Sept. 13, 1931, in Caernarvon Township, Pa. Doris married James R. Bomberger on Aug. 25, 1956.
Doris is survived by her husband and her two children, E. Douglas (Teresa) Bomberger of Landisville, Pa., and Catherine B. (Kevin) Custalow of Charlottesville, Va.; and three grandchildren, Nicholas T. Custalow of Charlottesville, Va., Joseph A. Bomberger (Harley Burgis) of Tallahassee, Fla., and Matthew C. Bomberger of Landisville, Pa. She is also survived by one sister, Ruth E. (Fred) Denlinger of Fulks Run, Va. She was preceded in death by her parents and two siblings, Lois A. Stockheim and Milton S. (Ann) Good and a granddaughter, Lauren E. Custalow.
She graduated from Lancaster Mennonite High School and Eastern Mennonite College with a B.S. in home economics. She continued her studies at the Pennsylvania State University, where she earned an M.S. in clothing and textiles. She completed her studies at Virginia Tech with an Ed.D. in home economics education in 1979. She taught at Eastern Mennonite College (later University) until the 1985 elimination of the home economics department, retiring at the rank of full professor. Both she and her husband taught at Cuttington College in Liberia, West Africa (1971-1973) and as ESL teachers at Sichuan Normal School in Chengdu, China (1981-1983) and at Hokusei Wakkanai Junior College in Wakkanai, Japan (1987-1988).
After retiring from EMU, she became a Certified Nurse Assistant, serving at Virginia Mennonite Retirement Community. In retirement, she became an artist in various media, including bargello, beadwork mosaics, alcohol ink, leather embossing, needlework, and others. She was a frequent exhibitor at various artistic venues, including the VMRC resident shows and the Rocktown Art 6x6x30 annual competitions.
A friendly hostess, Doris was admired for her welcoming smile and gracious dinner parties. Her students appreciated her patience and kindness. After a severe fall in August of 2021, she moved to Wenger House at VMRC for full care. She learned to navigate her wheelchair and was appreciated by her fellow residents for her kind and helpful spirit.
Doris was a longtime member of Park View Mennonite Church. A memorial service will be held in June, with specifics to be announced through the church website at www.pvmchurch.org. Burial will be at the PVMC Columbarium.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may made to the VMRC Good Samaritan Fund, 1491 Virginia Ave., Harrisonburg, VA 22802.
Online condolences may be made to the family by visiting www.mcmullenfh.com.
McMullen Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Bomberger, Martha Jane Hess
October 7, 1925 - October 12, 2022
Martha Jane Hess Bomberger peacefully entered her eternal home on Wednesday, October 12, 2022. She suffered a stroke but was able to celebrate her 97th birthday. Her family was able to spend precious time with her until her passing. Landis Homes nurses and the chaplains, plus Hospice care, were so helpful to Martha Jane and her family. Thank you!
Martha Jane and her twin sister Rachael Ann were born October 7, 1925. They grew up on a family farm with 7 other siblings. Martha Jane loved to talk about her childhood and remained very connected to her siblings and their families. She graduated from East Donegal High School in 1943.
On November 11, 1948, Martha Jane married Roy Landis Bomberger who was part owner of Bomberger's Store of Elm, now located in Lititz. She quickly learned how to work in the business, initially in the food department and later in the floor covering department. Together with Roy, they parented six children. The family was enriched and blessed through their shared gift of hospitality to local families and friends and also to many international guests. Erb Mennonite Church was central to their family's spiritual nurturing. The addition of 16 grandchildren and 25 great grandchildren brought great joy to their lives. Opportunities to travel expanded Martha Jane's worldview.
Martha Jane and Roy moved to Landis Homes Retirement Community in 2005. Martha Jane's creative way to meet new friends was to send birthday cards and invite new residents for a meal in their apartment. She hosted more than 100 luncheons, 7 or 8 residents at a time, to eat and share their life story. Their ground floor apartment allowed her to continue her love of growing beautiful flowers. Landis Homes campus life offered her time to play games, learn new crafts, exercise in the pool, read biographies from the library, and enjoy many Pathways Institute educational programs.
Born in Lancaster County, Martha Jane was the twin daughter of David and Amelia Buckwalter Hess. She was married for 62 years to Roy Bomberger who passed away on December 4, 2010. Survivors include children, Fannie Miller (Dr. Richard); John Bomberger (Linda High); Amelia Herr (Allan); Betsy Longenecker (Dr. William); Marcy High (Rick); Roy Bomberger, Jr. (Evelyn Frey); 16 grandchildren, and 25 great grandchildren. Hess family siblings brothers Joseph (Lois), Andrew (Dorothy), and Owen Richard Hess (Joy) and sister-in-law Sarah Hess Sauder. Deceased Hess siblings and their deceased spouses brothers David (Kathryn), Robert (Martha) and Ben Hess; sisters Jean Yunginger (Richard), and Rachael Ann Landis (Mervin).
Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Martha Jane's funeral service at the Erb Mennonite Church, 567 West Lexington Road, Lititz, on Saturday, October 22, 2022 at 10:30 AM. There will be a viewing at the church on Friday evening from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM with additional viewing time on Saturday morning from 9:30 AM until the time of service. Interment will be in the adjoining church cemetery. Contributions may be made in Martha Jane's memory to the Benevolent Fund of Landis Homes, 1001 East Oregon Road, Lititz, PA 17543, or Mennonite Disaster Service, 583 Airport Road, Lititz, PA 17543.
Bontrager, Ada W.
January 10, 1942 - July 4, 2022
Ada W. Bontrager, 80, of Topeka (District 36-1), died at 4:15 pm, on Monday, July 4, at her residence. She was born on January 10, 1942, in LaGrange County, to William J. and Ada (Miller) Bontrager.
Surviving are three sisters, Anna Kauffman of LaGrange, Mattie Bontrager of LaGrange, Emma (Daniel) Beechy of Topeka; brother, Enos (Anna Marie) Bontrager of Shipshewana; two sisters-in-law, Mattie Bontrager of Dalton, WI and Joann Bontrager of LaGrange; 36 nieces and nephews; including her niece, Waneta (Ervin) Miller of Topeka, who was her primary caretaker.
She was preceded in death by her parents; four brothers, Elmer, Amos, Ervin, and Daniel Bontrager; brother-in-law Daniel Kauffman.
Ada was involved in many lines of work throughout her life; however, she was well known for being a night receptionist for Rest Haven, she was a good friend to many of the residents there. She was a member of the Old Order Amish Church.
Visitation will be after 2:00 pm on Tuesday, July 5, and after 10:00 am Wednesday, July 6, at Wayne Yoder’s residence: 3100 S. 950 W. in Topeka. Funeral services will be at 9:30 am on Thursday, July 7, also at Wayne Yoder’s residence. Services will be conducted by Bishop Levi Lee Beachy and the home ministers. Burial will be in Yoder Cemetery in Shipshewana.
Bontrager, Allen J.
December 11, 1970 - November 26, 2022
Allen J. Bontrager, age 51, of Tippecanoe, died at 3:54 am, Saturday, November 26, 2022 at his residence after a 6 month illness. He was born December 11, 1970 in Lagrange, IN to Alton E. and Arlene Esther (Miller) Bontrager.
Mr. Bontrager grew up in Middlebury and moved to Tippecanoe after his marriage to Brenda Chupp on October 24, 1990 in Bremen. She survives along with his children, Brian Allen, Joe Devon both of Free Union, VA, Eric Lavon, Stacy Dawn, and Jenna Leann all of Tippecanoe; mother, Arlene Bontrager, Middlebury; and siblings, Nancy (Lamar) Slabaugh, Middlebury, Arlin (Lynetta) Bontrager, Goshen, Naomi Bontrager, and Norma (Jerry) Slabaugh, both of Middlebury. He was preceded in death by his father.
Mr. Bontrager was a member of Sandy Ridge Mennonite Church. He loved being with his family and enjoyed the outdoors. He had worked as General Manager at Keystone for many years and had recently worked as a salesman at Slabaugh Metal Fabrication.
Family and friends may call from 5:30 – 8:00, Monday, November 28th and 2-4 and 6-8 Tuesday, November 29th at Sandy Ridge Mennonite Church, 3085 7th Rd, Bremen and for one hour prior to the Funeral Service, which will be at 10:30 am, Wednesday, November 30th at Nappanee Missionary Church. The Home Ministry of Sandy Ridge Mennonite Church will officiate and burial will be in Bethel Cemetery. Arrangements are with Thompson-Lengacher & Yoder Funeral Home, Nappanee.
Bontrager, Andrew E.
March 3, 1931 - October 19, 2022
Andrew E. Bontrager, 91, of Topeka (district: 30-1), died at 1:30 am on Wednesday, October 19, 2022 at his residence. He was born on March 3, 1931, in LaGrange County to Ezra L. and Susie (Lehman) Bontrager. On December 4, 1952, in LaGrange County, he married Edna Irene Schrock, she survives.
Survivors in addition to his wife are two sons, Daniel A. (Mary) Bontrager and Ernest A. (Viola) Bontrager both of Topeka; daughter-in-law, Janet Kruppa of Chino Valley, AZ; 16 grandchildren; 35 great-grandchildren; brother, Sam Bontrager of Middlebury; sister-in-law, Esther Bontrager of LaGrange; brother-in-law, Wilbur Bontrager of Shipshewana.
He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Lloyd Bontrager; five brothers, Harley, Dan, Levi, Monroe and Joseph Bontrager; three sisters, Amelia Yoder, Ella Nisley, and Lizzie Mae Bontrager.
He was a member of the Old Order Amish Church, a farmer and a carpenter.
Visitation will be after 2:00 pm on Thursday October 20, and all day on Friday, October 21, at the Devon Bontrager residence, 6235 S. 600 W. Topeka. Funeral services will be at 9:30 am on Saturday, October 22, at the same residence. Services will be conducted by Bishop Ernest E. Bontrager and the home ministers. Burial will be in Hawpatch Cemetery, Topeka. Miller-Stewart Funeral Home, Middlebury, is handling the arrangements.
Bontrager, Ella A. Miller
August 9, 1929 - December 11, 2022
Ella A (Miller) Bontrager, of Arthur Illinois, passed away at 3:35 p.m. on December 11, 2022, at the Arthur Home.
Funeral services will be held 10:00 A.M. on Wednesday, December 14, 2022, at Pleasant View Church 155 N CR 300 E, Arcola, Illinois. Matt Bontrager will officiate. Burial will be in the Pleasant View Church Cemetery. Visitation will be from 1:00 P.M. to 4:00 P.M. and from 6:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. on Tuesday, December 13, 2022, at the Pleasant View Church in rural Arcola, Illinois. The Edwards Funeral Home is assisting with arrangements.
Ella was born on August 9, 1929, in rural Arthur. She was the daughter of Adlai B and Katie (Mast) Miller. She married Raymond C Bontrager on December 14, 1948. They lived in Holy Matrimony 73 years. Raymond passed away Feb. 7, 2022.
Ella was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. She helped her husband on the farm near Sullivan, Illinois. Ella enjoyed making quilts and made a quilt for each of her grandchildren. Ella and Ray were one of the founding members of Pleasant View Church in 1958 where she was still a member.
She is survived by 4 children: Marie Kuhns and husband Dannie of Arthur, IL. Ruth Kuhns and husband Gary of Tuscola, IL. Kenneth Bontrager and wife Goldie of Sullivan, IL. Judy Herschberger and husband Darrell of Tuscola, IL. 1 daughter-in-law Esther Kurtz and husband Nelson of Sullivan, IL, 22 grandchildren, 48 great grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchild, and 1 Sister-in-law Alta Miller of Arcola, IL.
She was preceded in death by her husband and parents, 2 sons, Willis Bontrager and Ernest Bontrager, 1 grandson Mark Bontrager, 6 Siblings, Lena Yoder and husband Adlai, Henry Miller and wife Mattie, Lucy Schrock and husband Ben, Sovilla Miller, Fred Miller, and Daniel Miller and wives Laura and Ardyth.
Bontrager, Ida Miller
July 23, 1927 - September 24, 2022
Ida Bontrager, 95, of Goshen, died at 6:25 pm, on Saturday, September 24 at Majestic Care of Goshen. She was born on July 23, 1927, in Elkhart County, to Owen and Sarah (Lehman) Miller. On October 23, 1947, in Elkhart County, she married Herman Bontrager, he died October 11, 2003.
Surviving are daughter, Julia Miller of Sturgis, MI; two sons, Jerry (Ruby) Bontrager of Union, MI, Richard (Julie) Bontrager of Goshen; son-in-law, Larry (Mary) Borntrager of Middlebury; 15 grandchildren, 46 great-grandchildren, seven great-great grandchildren; two sisters, Edna Graber of Middlebury, Sarah Christner of Pocahontas, AR.
She was preceded in death by her husband; parents; daughter, Meredith Borntrager; son-in-law, Ken Miller; great-granddaughter, Quinn Weber; two brothers, John O. Miller, Owen Jr. Miller; two sisters, Mary Bontrager, Alice Miller.
Ida was a member of Clinton Frame Church. Previously she had been a longtime member of Mt. Joy Mennonite Church where she taught Sunday School for many years. Ida loved her family and absolutely adored her many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Visitation will be from 2:00 - 7:00 pm on Wednesday, September 28 at Miller-Stewart Funeral Home, 1003 South Main Street, Middlebury. There will also be one hour of visitation prior to the 10:00 am funeral service on Thursday, September 29 at Clinton Frame Church, 63846 CR 35, Goshen. Services will be conducted by Pastor Ben Shirk. Burial will be in Thomas Cemetery, Goshen.
Bontrager, Kaden Joel
June 8, 2022 - June 13, 2022
Kaden Joel Bontrager, four-day old infant son of Dewayne and Janean (Yoder) Bontrager, of Topeka, died on Monday, June 13, at Riley Children's Hospital, Indianapolis. He was born on June 8, at Dupont Hospital.
Surviving in addition to his parents are his grandparents, Lavon and Ruth Yoder of Topeka, Samuel, Jr. and Elnora Bontrager, of Topeka; great-grandparents, Ernest and Clara Mae Bontrager of Topeka, Samuel and Wilma Bontrager of Wolcottville, Ray and Mary Alice Yoder of Topeka, Wilbur and Amanda Yoder of LaGrange.
He was preceded in death by great-grandmother Elmina Bontrager.
Visitation will be after 12:00 noon on Tuesday, June 14, at the family's residence, 4030 W 350 S Topeka. Funeral services will be at 9:30 am on Wednesday, June 15, also at the family's residence. Services will be conducted by Bishop Perry Lehman and the home ministers. Burial will be in Miller Cemetery, LaGrange. Miller-Stewart Funeral Home, Middlebury, is handling the arrangements.
Bontrager, Martin Dale
September 13, 2006 - November 13, 2022
Martin Dale Bontrager, 16, of Topeka, (district:29-1), died at 4:14 am on Sunday, November 13, [2022] from injuries sustained in an automobile accident on US 6 in Marshall County. He was born on September 13, 2006, in Topeka, to Gary and Sharon (Beachy) Bontrager.
Survivors in addition to his parents are two brothers, Eric Ryan Bontrager, David Eugene Bontrager both at home; two sisters, Carrie Dawn Bontrager (special friend Allen Ray Miller) of Mount Hope, OH, Annie Christina Bontrager at home; grandparents, Leo and Martha Bontrager of Topeka, Wilma Beachy of Sugarcreek, OH; special foster grandparents, Ray and Christina Miller of LaGrange; and numerous uncles, aunts and cousins.
Martin worked at Homestead Window and Door and was a hand receiver at Forest River.
Visitation will be after 2:00 pm on Monday, November 14 and all day Tuesday, November 15 at the family residence, 8070 W. 650 S., Topeka. Funeral services will be at 9:30 am on Wednesday, November 16 at the Ryan Schlabach residence, 6545 South SR 5, Topeka. Services will be conducted by Bishop Ervin Lehman and the home ministers of the Old Order Amish Church. Burial will be in Hawpatch Cemetery, Topeka.
Bontrager, Marvin A.
April 1, 1951 - May 20, 2022
Marvin A. Bontrager, 71, of Wolcottville, died as a result of a farming accident at 10:55 am on Friday, May 20, [2022] at his residence. He was born on April 1, 1951 in LaGrange County to Amos W. and Wilma (Miller) Bontrager. On May 20, 1971, in Shipshewana, he married Elizabeth H. Lambright, she survives.
Survivors in addition to his wife are seven daughters, Sueanna (Floyd) Bontrager of LaGrange, Erma (Daniel) Lambright of Wolcottville, Nettie (Norman) Mast of Wolcottville, Wilma (Dean) Graber of Shipshewana, Fannie (Calvin) Mast of LaGrange, Ruby (Daniel) Yoder of LaGrange, Ruth (David) Yoder of LaGrange; seven sons, Floyd (Ruth) Bontrager of Markesan, WI, Wilbur (Edna) Bontrager of Markesan, WI, Mervin (Carolyn) Bontrager of LaGrange, Samuel (LeEtta) Bontrager of Cambria, WI, Daniel (Velda) Bontrager of LaGrange, Vernon (Leona) Bontrager of Wolcottville, Mahlon (Kaylene) Bontrager of Wolcottville; 80 grandchildren; 27 great-grandchildren; four sisters, Mary Etta (Harley) Schlabach of Arthur, IL, Martha Sue (Norman) Hochstetler of Charlotte, MI, Orpha (Levi) Eash of Wawaka, Wilma Mae (Paul) Lambright of Ligonier; four brothers, Orla (Sadie) Bontrager of Rome City, William (Barbara) Bontrager of Topeka, Wilbur (Norma) Bontrager of Dalton, WI, Vernon (Sara) Bontrager of Markesan, WI.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Marvin was a farmer and member of the Old Order Amish Church.
Visitation will be after 1:00 pm on Saturday, May 21, and all Sunday, May 22, at the Norman Mast residence, 1055 W. 700 S. Wolcottville. Funeral services will be at 9:30 am on Monday, May 23, at the same residence. Services will be conducted by Bishop Joas Lambright and the home ministers. Burial will be in Clearspring Cemetery, Topeka.
Bontrager, Mary L. Yoder
November 1, 1932 - July 24, 2022
Mary L. Bontrager, 89, of Goshen, died July 24, 2022, at Greencroft Healthcare.
She was born November 1, 1932, in Honeyville to Daniel E. and Magdalena Yoder.
On December 23, 1950, she married Alvin Bontrager in Topeka, and together they farmed for many years near Millersburg. Al died April 6, 2015.
Mary is survived by daughters Debra (Robert) Kauffman, Rebecca (Kenneth) Horst, Patricia (Dale) Shenk, all of Goshen; Joyce (Jon) Yoder, Salem Oregon; Ginny (Ray) Miller, Chambersburg Pennsylvania; son Thomas Bontrager, Bremen Indiana; thirteen grandchildren, eleven great-grandchildren and sister Lucille Blue of Goshen.
Along with her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by two brothers, John and Orva Yoder; six sisters: Catherine Miller, Ida Yoder, Maggie Yoder, Ruby Wyse, Elma Eichorn, Alta Yoder and a great granddaughter, Alice Rose Hanby.
Mary was a 1950 graduate of Topeka High School, and of Goshen College in 1973. She taught elementary school for 20 years at Millersburg and in the Westview School Corporation. She was active in church activities at Maple Grove and Topeka Mennonite, and later at College Mennonite Church, where she served as a Stephen Minister.
Always curious, Mary was knowledgeable about birds, trees and wildflowers, and became a long-time volunteer for children’s groups at Merry Lea Environmental Learning Center. Mary loved to cook and hosted countless meals in her home for family, friends and strangers alike, most of which ended with her fine home-made pies. An avid gardener, she also nurtured long rows of vegetables and berries, as well as beautiful perennial flower gardens.
A memorial service will be held August 15, at 11:00 a.m. at College Mennonite Church. Visitation hours are 10:00 a.m. and following the service. Live stream will be available.
Yoder-Culp Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.
Memorial gifts in Mary’s honor may be directed to Merry Lea or the Bontrager Music Together Endowment at Goshen College.
Bontrager, Mary Sue Slabaugh
June 15, 1963 - August 30, 2022
Mary Sue Bontrager, age 59, of Nappanee passed away at 12 a.m., Tuesday, August 30, 2022 at Parkview Hospital Ft. Wayne, IN. She was born on June 15, 1963 in Nappanee to Marvin L. and Katie Elizabeth (Hochstetler) Slabaugh. On June 15, 1983 she married Floyd S. Bontrager in Elkhart County. Mary Sue was a homemaker and a member of the Old Order Amish Church.
Surviving is her husband, Floyd S. Bontrager, Nappanee; children, Sheila (Amos) Bontrager, Bremen, Brandon (Brittany) Bontrager, Leesburg, Christy Bontrager, Goshen, Emily (Lucas) Miller, Bremen, Kevin (Carolyn) Bontrager, Bremen, Diane (Karl) Miller, Bremen; 13 grandchildren, Audrey (special friend Loren Bontrager), Julie, Alayna, Brayden, Weston, Micah, Javin, Brantley, Andrew, Vanessa, Madelyn, Brooklynn, Brenson; parents, Marvin L. and Katie Elizabeth (Hochstetler) Slabaugh; 5 brothers, John (Becky) Slabaugh, Bremen, Devon (Louetta) Slabaugh, Nappanee, Jerry (Elizabeth) Slabaugh, Nappanee, Vernon (Edith) Slabaugh, Nappanee, Norman (Soloma) Slabaugh, Bristol; 5 sisters, Rose (Henry) Hochstetler, Bremen, Elnora (Weldon) Yoder, Nappanee, Sharon (Allen) Hochstetler, Bourbon, Vonda Kemp, Bourbon, Becky (Jason) Helmuth, Bremen.
She was preceded in death by her mother-in-law, Ada (Raber) Bontrager.
Family and friends may call after 1 p.m., Wednesday, August 31, 2022 and all day Thursday, September 1st at the home residence (30038 County Road 56, Nappanee). Funeral services will begin at 9:30 a.m., Friday, September 2nd also at the home residence. Home Ministries of the Old Order Amish Church will officiate. Burial will take place in Weldy Cemetery. Arrangements are with Thompson-Lengacher & Yoder Funeral Home, Nappanee, IN.
Bontrager, Raymond C.
July 14, 1926 - February 7, 2022
Raymond C. Bontrager 95 of Arthur, Illinois passed away at 7:30 p.m. on Monday February 7, 2022 at his son’s residence in Sullivan, Illinois. Ray was born on July 14, 1926 in rural Arthur, Illinois. He was the son of Chris N. and Lovina (Kaufman) Bontrager. He married Ella A. Miller on Dec 14, 1948. They lived in Holy Matrimony 73 years.
Funeral services will be held at 10:00 A.M. on Friday, February 11, 2022 at the Pleasant View Church, 155 N. CR 300 E., Arcola, Illinois. Pastor Matt Bontrager will officiate. Burial will be in the Pleasant View Church Cemetery. Visitation will be from 6:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. on Wednesday, February 9, 2022 and from 2:00 P.M. to 4:00 P.M. and 6:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. on Thursday, February 10, 2022 at the church. The Edwards Funeral Home is assisting with arrangements.
Ray was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He made his livelihood for many years as a farmer near Sullivan, Illinois. He spent many winters in Florida and enjoyed taking his friends and family fishing. Ray was one of the founding members of Pleasant View church in 1958 where he was still a member.
He is survived by his wife Ella. 4 children: Marie Kuhns and husband Dannie of Arthur, IL. Ruth Kuhns and husband Gary of Tuscola, IL. Kenneth Bontrager and wife Goldie of Sullivan, IL. Judy Herschberger and husband Darrell of Tuscola, IL. 1 daughter-in-law Esther Kurtz and husband Nelson of Sullivan, IL, 22 grandchildren, 46 great grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchild. 9 siblings: Mattie Miller of Arthur, IL, Liz Diener of Humboldt, IL, Verna Bontrager of Sarasota, FL, Mary Chupp and husband Lewis of Tuscola, IL, William Bontrager and wife Fannie of Millersburg, OH, Clara Herschberger and husband Nelson of Arcola, IL, Katie Helmuth of Glen Flora, WI, and Samuel Bontrager of Purdin, MO, 1 sister-in-law Alma Schweitzer of Goshen, IN and 1-brother-in-law Oba Herschberger of Sullivan, IL.
He was preceded in death by his parents, 2 sons, Willis Bontrager and Ernest Bontrager. 1 grandson Mark Bontrager, 9 siblings, Ida Otto and husband Otis, Edna Miller and husband Andy, Carrie Herschberger and husband Levi, Fannie Schrock and husband Jake, Melvin Bontrager and wife Laura, Levi Bontrager, Eli Bontrager and wife Katie, Anna Bontrager, Lorene Herschberger, brothers-in-law Henry A. Miller, Joe M Diener, Mannasses Bontrager Jr. and Glenn Helmuth. Sister-in-law Pamela Bontrager
Bontrager, Robert D.
September 1, 2004 - October 30, 2022
Robert D. Bontrager, 18, of Rome City, (district: 22-3), died unexpectedly at 3:44 pm on Sunday, October 30 [2022] in Bourbon. He was born on September 1, 2004, in Rome City, to Mervin S. and Ruby M. (Yoder) Bontrager.
Survivors in addition to his parents are four brothers, Steven (LaVera) Bontrager of Topeka, Harley (Rosetta) Bontrager of Rome City, Melvin (special friend Sarah Graber) Bontrager, Matthew Bontrager both at home; seven sisters, Mary Ruth (LaMar) Graber of Wolcottville, Linda (Harley) Bontrager of LaGrange, Wilma Jean Bontrager at home, Marilyn (Nathan) Miller of Wolcottville, Loranna (Ervin) Schrock of LaGrange, Suetta Bontrager, Wanda Bontrager both at home; grandparents, Samuel and Wilma Bontrager of Wolcottville, Melvin and Leanna Yoder of LaGrange; ten nephews; six nieces. Robert worked at Ligonier Baling and Packaging.
He was preceded in death by his nephew, Isaiah Jon Bontrager.
Visitation will be after 2:00 pm on both Tuesday, November 1, and Wednesday, November 2, at the Wayne Yoder residence, 0320 W. Northport Rd., Rome City. Funeral services will be at the 1:30 pm on Thursday, November 3, at the same residence. Services will be conducted by Bishop Wayne Yoder and the home ministers of the Old Order Amish Church. Burial will be in Clearspring Cemetery, Topeka. Miller-Stewart Funeral Home, Middlebury, is handling the arrangements.
Bontrager, Wilbur Arlen
December 17, 1938 - June 25, 2022
Wilbur Arlen Bontrager, 83, of Middlebury, died at 8:44 pm on Saturday, June 25 [2022] at his residence. He was born on December 17, 1938, in Middlebury, to Manas and Lydia (Miller) Bontrager. On May 24, 1960, in Middlebury, he married Rosalie Yoder, she survives.
Survivors in addition to his wife are two daughters, DiAnn (Dave) Beachy of Goshen, Denise (Don) Williams of Zionsville; son, Delton Ray Bontrager of Middlebury; seven grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren; sister, Marjorie (Richard) Gingerich of Au Gres, MI; brother, David Bontrager of Goshen.
He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Daryl Bontrager; twin sister, Wilma Arlene Knepp.
Wilbur was a member of Clinton Frame Church for 62 years. He drove truck for Coca-Cola, worked in final finish in the RV factories and co-managed the Essenhaus Inn with Rosalie for 20 years. He enjoyed fishing and collecting toy John Deere tractors. Wilbur absolutely loved his family, and his pride and joy were his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Visitation will be from 3:00 - 7:00 pm on Tuesday, June 28 at Miller-Stewart Funeral Home, 1003 South Main Street Middlebury. There will also be one hour of visitation prior to the 10:00 am funeral service on Wednesday, June 29 at Clinton Frame Church, Goshen. Services will be conducted by Pastors Sebastiano Rosa and Julie Lehman. Burial will be in Miller 8 Square Cemetery, Goshen. Memorials may be given to the Brotherhood Fund at Clinton Frame Church.
Bontrager, Zachariah Lynn
July 13, 2021 ~ February 13, 2022
Zachariah Lynn Bontrager, seven-month-old son of Aaron and Julie (Fry) Bontrager, of LaGrange, died on Sunday, February 13, at Riley Children's Hospital, Indianapolis, from complications after a liver transplant. He was born on July 13, 2021, in Topeka.
Surviving in addition to his parents are brother, Joshua Dean Bontrager at home; grandparents, Mahlon and Doris Bontrager of Shipshewana, Daniel and Mary Lou Fry of Topeka; great-grandparents, DeWayne and LeAnna Bontrager of LaGrange, Bonnie Stutzman of Shipshewana, Joe and Mattie Fry of Topeka, Ernest and Linda Lehman of Topeka; many aunts and uncles and two cousins.
He was preceded in death by his grandmother, Rebecca Bontrager and a great-grandfather, Harvey Stutzman, Jr.
Visitation will be after 2:00 pm on Thursday, February 17 and all day Friday, February 18 at the families residence, 0725 N. 300 E., LaGrange. Funeral services will be at 9:30 am on Saturday, February 19 at the Perry Hochstetler residence, 3575 E. 225 N., LaGrange. Services will be conducted by Bishop Mervin Whetstone and the home ministers of the Old Order Amish Church. Burial will be in Bloomfield Hill Cemetery, LaGrange.
Borkholder, Dorothy N. Yoder
September 2, 1934 - January 23, 2022
Dorothy N. Borkholder, age 87, of Nappanee, IN, died after a long illness on January 23, 2022 at 3:10pm at her residence. She was born on September 2, 1934 to Noah and Mattie (Yoder) Yoder in LaGrange County and was a lifetime resident of the Nappanee area. Dorothy married Isaac Borkholder on November 10, 1955. He preceded her in death on May 22, 2017. Dorothy was a member of the Old Order Amish Church.
She is survived by her daughters; Jo Ellen (Robert) Chupp of Nappanee, IN; Miriam (Vernon) Miller of Milford, IN; and Mattie (Devon) Miller of Middlebury, IN; her sons; Merlin (Brenda Tucher) Borkholder of Bremen, IN; Keith (Pauline Miller) Borkholder of Nappanee, IN; and Jonathan (Frieda Yoder) Borkholder of Nappanee, IN; 29 grandchildren; 47 great grandchildren; a brother, Amzie (Mae) Yoder of Nappanee, IN; a sister, Edna Miller of Shipshewana, IN; sister-in-laws; Alice Yoder of Middlebury, IN; and Dorothy Yoder of Goshen, IN.
Dorothy was preceded in death by her husband; parents; 2 grandchildren; and siblings; Susan Lambright, Katie Yoder, Emma Yoder, Menno Yoder, Dan Yoder, Leroy Yoder, Alton Yoder, and Ervin Yoder.
Friends and family may call after 3 pm on Monday, January 24, 2022 at the Jonathan Borkholder residence (426 US 6 West, Nappanee, IN) and all day Tuesday, January 25, 2022. A funeral will take place at 9:30am on Wednesday, January 26, 2022 also at the Jonathan Borkholder residence. Burial will take place at Weldy Cemetery. Home Ministries of the Old Order Amish Church will be officiating. Arrangements are with Thompson-Lengacher & Yoder Funeral Home, Nappanee, IN.
Borkholder, Margaret Hershberger
January 4, 1936 - February 25 2022
Margaret Borkholder, age 86 of Bremen, IN, died at 12:25am Friday, February 25, 2022 after a short illness. She was born on January 4, 1936 in Bremen, IN to Ezra and Laura (Schmucker) Hershberger. On April 26, 1956 Margaret married Freemon Borkholder in Nappanee, IN. He preceded her in death after more than 52 years of marriage on May 19, 2008.
Mrs. Borkholder was a member of Bethel Mennonite Church and, along with her husband, was a member of Gideons International for many years. Margaret was a loving wife and was an excellent caretaker for her husband as he dealt with paralysis for 14 years. She loved to serve and cared deeply for her family, cherishing the time she spent with her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.
Mrs. Borkholder is survived by 2 sons: Dwayne (Jolene) Borkholder of Bremen and Jonathan (Marcia) Borkholder of Sarasota, FL; 3 daughters: Lorene Borkholder of Bremen, Sue Etta (Orus) Yoder of Bremen, and Cheryl Borkholder of Nappanee; 12 grandchildren; 10 great grandchildren; a brother, Lamar (Clara) Hershberger of Nappanee; 2 sisters: Luella (John) Gladieux of Bourbon, IN and Donna (Dan) Joldersma of Bristol, IN; and a sister-in-law, Ida Mae Hershberger of Nappanee.
Margaret was preceded in death by her parents, husband, and a brother, Eugene Hershberger.
Friends and family may call from 2-8pm Sunday, February 27, 2022 at Bethel Mennonite Church (25402 Co Rd 50, Nappanee, IN 46550). Funeral services will be held at 10am on Monday, February 28, 2022, also at Bethel Mennonite Church with Pastor Daryl Hershberger officiating. Burial will follow in Bethel Mennonite Church Cemetery. Memorial contributions in Margaret’s name can be given to Gideons International. Arrangements are with Thompson-Lengacher and Yoder Funeral Home, Nappanee.
Borkholder, Savannah Kate
August 19, 2021 - May 13, 2022
Savannah Kate Borkholder, 9 months, daughter of Dale and Ella (Hochstetler) Borkholder, Bremen, died at 9:27 pm, Friday, May 13, 2022 at her residence after an illness. She was born August 19, 2021 in Nappanee.
Surviving are her parents, Dale and Ella Borkholder; sister, Sadie Ranae Borkholder at home; maternal grandparents, Wyman and Edna (Troyer) Hochstetler, Wakarusa and paternal grandparents, Keith and Pauline (Miller) Borkholder, Bremen.
Family and friends may call after 1 pm, Sunday, May 15, 2022 and all day Monday, May 16th at the family residence, 643 4th Rd. Funeral services will be at 9:30 am, Tuesday, May 17th also at their residence. The Home Ministry of the Old Order Amish Church will officiate and burial will be in Cedar Road Cemetery.
Bowman, Anna M. Troyer
September 10, 1933 - November 20, 2022
Anna M. Bowman 89, of 6926 CR 77, Millersburg, passed away at her home surrounded by her family on Sunday, November 20, 2022 after an extended illness. She was born on September 10, 1933 to the late Menno W. and Malinda (Erb) Troyer. On November 13, 1952 she married Joe H. Bowman who preceded her in death on December 17, 2007. Anna was a homemaker and a member of the Old Order Amish Church.
She is survived by her nine children, Ella (Raymond) Yoder of Millersburg, Dan (Amanda) Bowman of Millersburg, Alvin (Sarah) Bowman of Fredericksburg, Elizabeth (Reuben) Miller of Dundee, Alma (Joseph) Yoder of Fredericksburg, Harvey (Ruth) Bowman of Millersburg, Mary (Bert) Stutzman of Millersburg, John (Katie) Bowman of the home, Joe Jr. (Martha) Bowman of Millersburg; 65 grandchildren; 137 great-grandchildren; a sister, Lizzie (Dan) Miller; and brothers-in-law, John Oren (late Susan) Miller and Adam (late Malinda) Herhsberger.
In addition to her parents and her husband Joe, she was preceded in death by 4 grandchildren; 2 great-grandchildren; a brother and sisters, Albert Troyer, Amanda (Amos) Yoder, Mattie (Dan) Schlabach, Susan Miller, Ella (Eli) Kuhns and Malinda Hershberger.
Funeral services will be held at the home on Wednesday, November 23, at 9:00 AM with Bishop Aaron Hershberger officiating. Burial will follow in the Hershberger Cemetery. Friends may call at the home after 2 PM on Monday and any time on Tuesday. A special thank you to Ohio's Hospice LifeCare for their kind assistance.
Miller Funeral Care – Walnut Creek, OH 330-893-2273.
Bowman, Geneva Frances Heatwole
May 29, 1926 - April 19, 2022
HARRISONBURG -- Geneva Frances (Heatwole) Bowman, 95, died Tuesday, April 19, 2022.
Born May 29, 1926, in Dry River, she was a daughter of Ammon Samuel and Fannie Irene (Shank) Heatwole.
Geneva attended Rushville School and graduated from Eastern Mennonite School. On Sept. 11, 1947, she married Paul Dewitt Bowman. She was a busy homemaker and was also employed by Eastern Mennonite College for 30 years, retiring as custodial supervisor. She was a member of Gospel Hill Mennonite Church.
Geneva was preceded in death by her husband on Dec. 16, 2003; and also by an infant son, Larry Dale Bowman; a brother, Dr. John P. Heatwole; and a sister, Gladys Bear.
Surviving are four children, John “Jack” Bowman and wife, Sandy, of Harrisonburg, Sandra Bowman of Fairfax, Rose DeYoe and husband, Michael, of Port Republic, and Sam Bowman and wife, Suzanne, of Harrisonburg; two sisters, Hazel Good of Harrisonburg and Millie Thompson of Williamsburg; a sister-in-law, Anita Heatwole of Bridgewater; grandchildren, Tonia Wells Trivett, John Bowman (Mendy), Jodi Bowman Cyzick (Andy), Travis Bowman (Ashley), Miranda Bowman Weaver (Keith), Lucas Crawford (Christy Lowery), Jerad Bowman (Kate), Derick Bowman (Carissa), and Chase DeYoe (Shelly); great-grandchildren, John “Jay” Bowman III, Quentin Bowman, Kirsten Cyzick, Jaime Cyzick, Lana Cyzick, Forest Cyzick, Tucker Bowman, Harper Bowman, Nash Bowman, Zoey Weaver, Mea Weaver, Kimber Weaver, Annabelle Bowman, Oliver Bowman, and Zooey, Aspen and Lyla DeYoe; and many nieces and nephews.
The family will receive friends from 4 to 6 p.m. Friday, April 22, in Weavers Mennonite Church.
A graveside service will be held 2 p.m. Saturday, April 23, in Weavers Mennonite Church Cemetery led by John Bowman. Pallbearers will be John, Travis, Jerad and Derick Bowman, Lucas Crawford, Andy Cyzick and Keith Weaver. A memorial service will follow at 4 p.m. in Gospel Hill Mennonite Church officiated by Pastor Dan Horning.
Memorials may be directed to Gideons International, Rockingham West Camp, PO Box 734, Harrisonburg, VA 22803.
Bear Funeral Home is serving the family.
Bowman, Pollyanna Miller
April 23, 1941 - December 14, 2022
Pollyanna Bowman, 81, of Middlebury (district: 56), died at 6:50 am, on Wednesday, December 14, [2022] at her residence. She was born on April 23, 1941, in LaGrange County to Simon and Lizzie (Borkholder) Miller. On November 3, 1959, she married Dan H. Bowman, he died January 7, 2012.
Surviving are five daughters, Lizzie Ann (Urie) Miller of Middlebury, Mary (Freeman) Yoder of Hillsboro, WI, Clara Bowman of Middlebury, Miriam (Isaac) Mishler of Hillsboro, WI, Lydia (Aaron) Bontrager of Middlebury; four sons, Joseph (Lizzie Mae) Bowman of Middlebury, John (Rosanna) Bowman of South Boardman, MI, Daniel (Naomi) Bowman of Worthington, Harvey (Wilma) Bowman of Middlebury; daughter-in-law, Leanna Bowman of Hillsboro, WI; 55 grandchildren; 32 great grandchildren; two brothers, Ervin (Margret) Miller, Amos (Janet) Miller; Two sisters-in-law, Mary Anna Miller, Barbara Miller.
She was preceded in death by her husband; parents; son, Samuel Bowman; three brothers, Freeman, Andy, John Henry Miller; one grandson, Michael Josiah Bowman.
Pollyanna was a homemaker and member of the Old Order Amish Church.
Visitation will be after 2:00 pm on Thursday, December 15, and all-day Friday, December 16, at the Joseph Bowman residence: 10755 Cr 14 in Middlebury. Funeral services will be at 9:30 am on Saturday, December 17, also at Joseph Bowman’s residence. Services will be conducted by Bishop Perry Mast and home ministers. Burial will be in Mast Cemetery in Middlebury.