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.
2023
R
Raber, Daniel D.
January 1, 1955 - July 17, 2023
Daniel D. Raber, Bishop, 68, of 26540 Kirk Rd., passed away at his residence on Monday, July 17, 2023 after a battle of cancer.
He was born Jan. 1, 1955 in Millersburg to the late David L. and Amanda (Miller) Raber. He married Lydia J. (Miller) Raber on Nov. 6, 1975, who survives.
Dan was a member of the Old Order Amish Church.
In addition to his wife, Lydia, he is survived by his children, Edna (Andy) Troyer, Roman (Erma) Raber of the home, Paul (Ella) Raber, Mattie (David) Troyer, Nettie (Alvin) Troyer, Betty (Andy) Hershberger, David (Anna) Raber, John (Clara) Raber, Elsie (Levi) Troyer, Marie (Alvin Jr.) Troyer, Marvin (Nancy) Raber all of Howard; seventy-eight grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; one brother; two sisters; and one sister-in-law.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his step-mother; two brothers; one brother-in-law; and one stillborn grandchild,
Funeral services will be held at Dan’s residence 10:00 a.m. Thursday, July 20, 2023, with Nelson L. Raber officiating. Friends may call at the home any time. Fischer Funeral Home in Danville is assisting the family. www.fischerfuneralhome.com
Raber, Edna Coblentz
September 3, 1941 - December 24, 2023
Edna (Coblentz) Raber, 82, of Nunda, Ohio, died, December 24, 2023 at home, surrounded by her loving family.
The daughter of Monroe J. and Martha D. (Hostetler) Coblentz, Edna was born September 3, 1941 in Fredericksburg, Ohio.
Edna is survived by her loving husband Roman A. Raber of Butler; children Wayne (Lydia) Raber of Fredericksburg, Lucinda (Johnny) Hostetler of Howard, Martha (Joseph) Miller of Danville, Ivan (Martha) Raber of Butler, and Ervin (Miriam) Raber of Butler; 37 grandchildren; 28 great grandchildren; siblings Leroy (Mary) Coblentz of Fredericksburg, Elsie Coblentz of Fredericksburg, Barbara Ann (Wayne-deceased) Kline of Holmesville, Alvin (Ella) Coblentz of Fredericksburg, Ruth (Albert) Yoder of Millersburg, and Dorothy Coblentz of Fredericksburg; numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family.
She was also preceded in death by her parents Monroe and Martha Coblentz and two grandchildren.
Funeral services will begin at 9 am, Wednesday, December 27, 2023 at the Raber family farm, 20881 Nunda Road, Butler, Ohio 44822. Ray Hochstetler will officiate and burial will follow in Yoder Cemetery.
The Bellville Snyder Funeral Home is honored to assist the Raber family with funeral services.
Raber, Ervin L.
August 18, 1959 - July 27, 2023
Ervin L. Raber, 63, of Shipshewana, died at 1:56 pm on Thursday, July 27, 2023 at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center, Mishawaka, while surrounded by his family. He was born on August 18, 1959, in Shipshewana, to Joseph and Martha (Slabach) Raber. On January 7, 1984 in Lindsborg, KS he married Naomi Eash, she survives.
Survivors in addition to his wife are three sons, Joseph (Melissa) Raber of Shipshewana, and their children, Adelynn, Lucas, Asher, and Eli; Nathan (Rachel) Raber of Montgomery, and their children, Rowan and Caroline; Nic (Michelle) Raber of Topeka, and their children, Emmett and Miles; three sisters, Mary Lou (David) Schwartz, Marlene (Gerald) Troyer, Sue Ann (Ernest) Miller; three brothers, Glenn (Tammy) Raber, Lavon (Lisa) Raber, Joseph (Christine) Raber Jr.
He was preceded in death by his father, Joseph Raber and his twin infant sons, Andrew and Austin.
Even though Ervin was paralyzed in a work accident in 1983, he led an incredibly productive life. He worked at Jayco for 22 years, while keeping up a small farm at home. He and Naomi raised three boys and he could regularly be found on the sidelines of their games, cheering them on, helping them with their 4H animals and encouraging them to pursue a relationship with Jesus Christ. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, and riding motorcycles. He was an active member of Emma Church, spending many Sundays' teaching both children and adult Sunday School, he also served on the church council. He adored his grandchildren and loved coming to their programs and events and playing with them; especially giving them endless rides on his motorized wheelchair.
Visitation will be held from 1:00 - 7:00 pm Sunday, July 30, at Emma Church, 1900 South 600 West Topeka. There will also be one hour of visitation prior to the 10:00 am funeral service on Monday, July 31, also at the church. Services will be conducted by Pastor Gene Hartman. The burial will be in Townline Cemetery, Shipshewana. Memorials may be given to Emma Church, to be used for mission projects or Rainbow Years Learning Center. Miller-Stewart Funeral Home, Middlebury is in charge of arrangements.
Ramer, Delbert Leroy
April 26, 1944 - September 26 2023
Delbert Leroy Ramer- Born April 26, 1944, in Nappanee, IN to Floyd W. and Catherine (Bechtel) Ramer, He was the oldest of 4 boys. As a young boy, he helped on the farm with milk cows and field work. Delbert started mechanics at a young age. He took a carburetor off his dad's new push mower and it had to be repaired at the dealer. He had a love of fixing tractors and cars and had his first job by 15 years old.
On Aug. 12th, 1966, he married Clara Marie Marshall. They had their wedding on the home place. To this union, 3 children were born, Margaret Marie (Byers), David Leroy Ramer and Allen Eugene Ramer.
In Aug. 1968, they moved to Seymour, MO along with his and her parents. He was a member of Ozark Mennonite Church from then until his death.
He worked for the Chevrolet dealer in Seymour, as well as for Emery Ropp, doing cage jobs, building goosenecks, furnaces, motor homes and he enjoyed it all.
In March of 1978, Delbert and Robert Weaver started their own repair shop, "R&D Country Garage". Delbert kept it open 44 years, and retired in 2022. He could fix almost anything and had phone calls from other states and countries, and would say "Well, I fixed that over the phone!"
He suffered a stroke on Aug. 5, 2023, and was recovering, and doing therapy. He had a second stroke from which he didn't recover. He was 79 years, 5 months.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Clara, his parents Floyd & Catherine Ramer and two brothers, Norman and Virgil Ramer.
He is survived by his children, Margaret (Brian) Byers, David (Twila) Ramer of Seymour and Allen (Jodi) Ramer of Montana, 14 grandchildren, I great-grandchild, and 1 brother Wayne (Dora) Ramer along with 1 uncle, 2 aunts, and nieces, nephews, many cousins, and lots of friends.
The family wishes to thank everyone for their prayers and many acts of kindness over this time.
Ramer, Katherine B. Kilmer
October 6, 1934 - May 14, 2023
Katherine B. Ramer, 88 years, 7 months and 8 days, of High Point, Missouri, died on May 14, 2023 at 12:22 a.m. She was born on October 6, 1934 in Brutus, Michigan, a daughter of the late Christian and Elizabeth B. Kilmer.
Katherine was married to the late Menno M. Ramer on September 21, 1961 in Narvon, Pennsylvania where they lived for a year before moving to Indiana. In 1976, they moved to Missouri. She was a homemaker. Katherine was a member of Pleasant Hill Mennonite Church.
She is survived by ten children, Edwin (Esther Mae) of Gorin, Missouri, James (Rosann) of High Point, Missouri, Russell (Joyce) of Russellville, Missouri, Lloyd (Edna) of Rutledge, Missouri, Delores Shirk (Wayne) of Centertown, Missouri, Annetta Weaver (Gerald) of Versailles, Missouri, Sarah Ann Martin (Jerry) of Stover, Missouri, Steve (Lisa) of High Point, Missouri, John Allen (Norma) of High Point, Missouri and Michael (Reba) of Eldon, Missouri; seventy-one grandchildren; one hundred great-grandchildren; sisters, Florence B. Nolt of New Holland, Pennsylvania, Ada B. Zimmerman (Phares) of Millmont, Pennsylvania, Barbara B. Zimmerman (Walter) of Barnett, Missouri, Bertha B. Shirk (Samuel) of Spencer, Tennessee and Esther B. Shirk (Aaron) of Granton, Wisconsin; a brother, Aaron B. Kilmer of Stover, Missouri; sisters-in-law, Cora H. Kilmer of Barnett, Missouri and Leora G. Oberholtzer (Abner) of Gorin, Missouri and brothers-in-law, Eli W. Shirk of Withee, Wisconsin and Roy M. Martin of Latham, Missouri.
Katherine was preceded in death by her granddaughter, Sheila Joann Shirk; great-grandson, Lyndon Brice Ramer; sisters, Sarah Naomi Martin (Lester), Mary Ann B. Hoover (Lloyd), Betty B. Shirk and Annetta B. Martin; brothers, Maynard B. Kilmer and John Daniel Kilmer; a brother-in-law, Raymond Nolt and a sister-in-law, Anna K. Kilmer.
Services will be held at 9:30 a.m., Friday, May 19, 2023 at Pleasant Hill Mennonite Church, Latham, Missouri. Burial will be in Pleasant Hill Cemetery. Visitation will be from 12:00-4:00 p.m. and 5:00-9:00 p.m., Thursday at Pleasant Hill Community Center, Latham, Missouri.
Arrangements are under the care and direction of Kidwell-Garber Funeral Home of Versailles.
Reiff, Nelson H.
April 2, 1998 - July 30, 2023
Nelson H. Reiff, 25, of East Earl, passed away on Sunday, July 30, 2023 at Penn State Lancaster Medical Center following a lengthy illness.
He was married 4 years to Lucille Zeiset Reiff. Born in East Earl, he was the son of Titus M. and Ada Z. Hoover Reiff of East Earl.
Nelson was a farmer and a member of the Spring Grove Mennonite Church, Groffdale Conference.
Surviving besides his wife and parents is a son, Brandon Reiff; a daughter, Kimberly Reiff; seven brothers, Jonathan husband of Kathryn Martin Reiff of Ephrata, Paul husband of Esther Newswanger Reiff of East Earl, Titus husband of Susan Leid Reiff of East Earl, Mark husband of Eileen Sensenig Reiff of East Earl, Elvin husband of Darlene Burkholder Reiff of Penn Yan, NY, Ammon husband of Lisa Zimmerman Reiff of Penn Yan, NY, and Leon husband of Karen Martin Reiff of East Earl; three sisters, Emma wife of Elvin Sensenig of East Earl, Elsie wife of Kevin Weaver of East Earl, and Arlene wife of Alvin Nolt of Penn Yan, NY; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Paul David and Ellen Hoover Zeiset of East Earl, brothers-in-law, Curvin husband of Karen Zimmerman Zeiset, John Aaron husband of Jeanette Sensenig Zeiset, and Lavon Zesiet all of East Earl, and sisters-in-law, Marlene Zeiset fiancée of Lamar Nolt and Leann Zeiset both of East Earl.
A Funeral Service will be held on Friday, August 4, at 9:30 A.M. at the Spring Grove Mennonite Church, East Earl, PA with Bishop Titus Martin officiating. Interment in the adjoining church cemetery. Viewings will be held at the home of Paul David and Ellen Zeiset, 132 Spring Grove Road, East Earl, on Thursday from 1:00 to 4:00 PM and 6:00 to 8:00 PM. Arrangements by the Eckenroth Home for Funerals, Terre Hill, PA.
Ressler, Susan K. Smoker
March 16, 1953 - January 3, 2023
It is with both crushing sadness and bittersweet joy that we announce the passing of Susan K. Ressler, age 69, of Gap, PA. She passed away at her home on Tuesday, January 3, 2023. She is now walking in the gardens of heaven in the presence of her Creator. She was the wife of Richard R. Ressler, with whom she would have celebrated 48 years of marriage on January 18th. She was born in Cochranville, daughter of Elsie K. Yoder Smoker of Quarryville and the late Sylvan K. Smoker.
She worked as a tutor for Salisbury Elementary School of Gap for over 20 years. She was a member of Maple Grove Mennonite Church. She enjoyed flower gardening, taking walks on the beach, and spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren.
Surviving besides her husband and mother are 2 children: Matthew C. husband of Laura J. Groff Ressler of New Holland, Megan E. wife of Matthew R. Chambers of New Holland, 8 grandchildren, 9 siblings: David husband of Judy High Smoker of North Bingham, PA, Glenda wife of James Brubaker of Quarryville, Galen husband of Verna Smucker Smoker of Cochranville, Nathanael husband of Donna Taylor Smoker of Jacksonville, TX, Timothy husband of Sandra Burkhart Smoker of Strasburg, Karen wife of Daniel Brooks of Ronks, Charity wife of Joseph Watson of Kinzers, John husband of Brenda Jennings Smoker of Lindale, TX, Grace wife of Graham Muir of Dunedin, FL.
A memorial service will take place at the Maple Grove Mennonite Church, 549 Swan Road, Atglen, PA, on Saturday, January 7th, at 11 a.m., with a time to greet the family from 9:30 a.m. until time of service. Pastors Ronald Ressler and Michael Clemmer will be officiating.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Bridge of Hope, P.O. Box 304, Exton, PA. 19341.
Reynolds, Michael E., Sr. "Mike"
September 24, 1949 - April 25, 2023
Michael “Mike” E. Reynolds Sr., 73, Wakarusa, passed away Tuesday, April 25, 2023 at his home. He was born September 24, 1949 in Mishawaka, Indiana to William and Treva (Johnson) Reynolds. On October 21, 1968 he married Sara (Weldy) Reynolds.
Surviving are his wife, Sara Reynolds, Wakarusa, 2 children, Sheila Smallwood, Wakarusa, and Harold Reynolds, Wakarusa, 4 grandchildren, Britney (Michael) Mortensen, Wakarusa, Zac Smallwood, Goshen, Wade Smallwood, Wakarusa, and Czech Reynolds, Wakarusa, 4 great-grandchildren, Rylie, Ryan, Colton and Natalee, 2 sisters, Judy Bowman and Nancy Suddarth, and 3 brothers, David (Patti) Reynolds, Tim Reynolds, and Steve (Nancy) Reynolds.
Preceding him in death are his parents, stillborn son, Michael E. Reynolds Jr., and 2 brothers, Tom Reynolds, and Gary Reynolds.
Mike attended Jimtown High School. He worked in the RV industry and started his own company “The Little Trailer Company," Elkhart. He was known for his sense of humor and his wonderful generosity. He loved spending time with his siblings and enjoyed taking care of his yard. Mike loved his family, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Visitation will be from 4 p.m. - 7 p.m. Tuesday, May 2, 2023 at Rieth Rohrer Ehret Lienhart Funeral Home, 117 W. Waterford St., Wakarusa, IN 46573, and 1 hour prior to the 1 p.m. funeral service on Wednesday, May 3, 2023, Holdeman Mennonite Church, 65723 Co Rd 1, Wakarusa, IN 46573. Burial will be at Olive (West) Cemetery at a later date. Pastor BJ Leichty will officiate. Memorial contributions can be sent to Rieth Rohrer Ehret Lienhart Funeral Home to help with funeral expenses.
Rhodes, Louise Catherine Koogler
October 29, 1931 - December 11, 2023
Louise Catherine Koogler Rhodes, 92, a resident of Dayton, passed away Monday, Dec. 11, 2023, at her home.
Mrs. Rhodes was born Oct. 29, 1931, in Dayton, Va. to the late Daniel Wenger and Josie Irene Good Koogler.
She was a homemaker and a member of Riverdale Old Order Mennonite Church.
On Feb. 6, 1955, she married John Clay Rhodes, who survives.
Surviving, in addition to her husband, are her children, J. Clifford Rhodes and wife, Ruby, of Dayton, Daniel Rhodes and wife, Stella, of Frankfort, Ohio, LaMar Rhodes and wife, Margaret, of Dayton, Ross Rhodes and wife, Anne, of Greenfield, Ohio, Loren Rhodes and wife, Laura, of Greenfield, Ohio, Susan Wenger and husband, Nelson, of Dayton, Lucille Zimmerman and husband, David, of Greenfield, Ohio, Barbara Beery and husband, J. Galen, of Dayton; siblings, Charles Koogler Sr. and wife, Margaret, of Bridgewater, James L. Koogler Sr. and wife, Mary, of Mount Crawford, Lewis Koogler of Mount Crawford; sisters-in-law, Norma Koogler, Mary Grace Rhodes, Margaret Rhodes; 50 grandchildren; and 85 great-grandchildren.
In addition to her parents, Mrs. Rhodes was preceded in death by an infant son; a great-grandson; and her siblings, William Koogler, Eber Koogler, Mary Ellen Showalter and husband, William.
The family will receive friends from 1:00-4:00 p.m. and from 6:00-8:00 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 13, 2023, and until 7:00 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 14, at her home, 1631 Bank Church Road, Dayton, VA 22821.
Ministers of the Church will conduct a funeral service at 10:00 a.m. Friday, Dec. 15, at Pleasant View Old Order Mennonite Church. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.
McMullen Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Richard, Elmer Joseph
October 26, 1926 - October 29, 2023
Elmer Joseph Richard, 97, of Creston, passed away on Sunday, Oct. 29, 2023 at the Apostolic Christian Home after a period of declining health.
Elmer was born on October 26,1926 on his parents’ farm along Cleveland Road, north of Wooster in Wayne Township. He was the oldest son of Joseph and Sarah E. (Graber) Richard, the second of eight children. He accepted the Lord as his personal Savior and joined the former Pleasant Hill Mennonite Church near Sterling on May 5, 1940. Elmer attended Wooster and Smithville public schools, and graduated from Smithville High School in 1944. Following graduation, he worked for his father on the family’s Wayne Township farm until his marriage. Elmer met the love of his life, Eunice Marie Amstutz in 1948 and they were married on March 26, 1951, at the Martin’s Mennonite Church. Elmer and Eunice took up housekeeping on a 78.8-acre farm at 5265 East Easton Road in Milton Township, near Sterling, Ohio. Elmer was a dairy farmer most of his life. He and Eunice joined the Crown Hill Mennonite Church and he was a faithful member until his death. At Crown Hill, Elmer was congregational chairman, church elder and Sunday School teacher. Elmer’s passions were serving God, his family, his church, farming, The Gideons, and gardening.
He is survived by three children: Sidney and his wife, Sandra of Goshen, IN, Kristina and her husband, Steve Gerber of Creston and Kent and his wife, Rita of Talmage, PA; seven grandchildren: Erin (Tom Fautz), Joel (Jami), and Gina (Chris Webster); Samuel (Mindy) and Zachary (Aerial) Gerber; and Rachel (Ryan Henschel) and Michel (Kirstyn) Richard; seven great-grandchildren: Braxton and Jade Richard, Mabel Webster, Jackson and Macy Gerber, Ruth Henschel and Gabriel Richard; and siblings Anna Gehman and Ruth Steiner of Kidron, Martha Steiner and Junior (Naomi) Richard of Wooster, and sister-in-law, Joanne Richard of Wooster.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife Eunice, son Phil and daughter-in-law, Sandi Richard Wood; his sisters Helen Steiner and Mary Hilty; his brother, Paul; brothers-in-law, Chester Steiner, John Gehman, Wilford Steiner, Marvin Hilty and Charles Steiner.
Services will be Saturday, Nov. 4th at 11:00 a.m. at Crown Hill Mennonite Church near Rittman with Pastors Dan Hooley and Thomas Dunn officiating. Burial will be in the Church Cemetery. Friends may call Friday from 5-8 p.m. at the Church. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Gideons International, The Apostolic Village or to Crown Hill Mennonite Church. Murray Funeral Home in Creston is handling arrangements.
Risser, Paul H.
January 10, 1928 - January 21, 2023
Paul H. Risser, 95, of Lititz, passed from time into eternity on Saturday, January 21, 2023 at his home. Born in Lancaster, he was the son of the late Christ S. and Anna Hernley Risser. Paul was the husband of the late Elaine Sauder Risser who passed away in December of 2004. A longtime resident and farmer of Brubaker Valley; then a furniture builder the last 15 years of his life. He was a member of Miners Village Mennonite Church, Cornwall.
Paul is survived by his children: Marlene Wine of Lititz, David husband of Julie Long Risser of Augusta, WI, Charles husband of JoAnn Horst Risser of Lititz, Julia wife of Nathan Ebersole of Shippensburg, Joanne wife of LaRay Martin of Newburg, Susan wife of Clair Wadel of Washington Boro, Paul Mark Risser, Cheryl wife of Leon Newswanger of Woodbury, Elvin husband of Dorothy Binkley Risser of Lititz, 61 grandchildren, 174 great grandchildren, and a sister-in-law, Rachel Risser of Washington Boro.
He was preceded in death by: two grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, a son-in-law, Ernest Wine, two brothers: Clarence and Samuel Risser, five sisters: Edna Sauder, Miriam Martin, Louella Ebersole, Arlene Risser, and Esther Ebersole.
Funeral services will be held at the White Oak Mennonite Church, 2456 Newport Road, Manheim, on Saturday, January 28, 2023 at 10:00 AM. There will be a viewing at the White Oak Mennonite Church on Friday from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM and again from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Interment will be in the adjoining church cemetery. Please omit flowers. The Buch Funeral Home, Manheim, in charge of arrangements.
Risser, Rachel Arlene Bauman
May 4, 1933 - November 11, 2023
Rachel Arlene Risser, 90, of Washington Boro, PA died at her residence on Saturday, November 11, 2023 following a short time under hospice care.
She was the wife of the late Samuel Hernley Risser. Born in Manheim, she was the daughter of the late Ernest and Grace Snyder Bauman.
A homemaker, Rachel enjoyed quilting, sewing, reading and playing games. She loved her family dearly along with their big family gatherings. She was a member of Living Light Mennonite Church, Washington Boro.
Surviving her are eight sons, Jay (Cecelia) Risser of Mount Joy, Jerry Risser of Limerick, Jim (Kay) Risser of Washington Boro, Jeff (Marianne) Risser of Washington Boro, John (Cindy) Risser of Brownstown, Joe (Deb) Risser of Washington Boro, Terry (Judy) Risser of Lancaster, Randy (Shelley) Risser of Oxford, FL; a daughter Carol Ann (Dan) Martin of Dalton, OH; 23 grandchildren; 38 great grandchildren; a sister Orpha (Dave) Herr of Andover, NY; and a sister-in-law Charlotte Bauman of Manheim.
Rachel was preceded in death by a daughter-in-law Kathy Risser and 4 brothers, Elwood Bauman, Elvin Bauman, Mark Bauman, Luke Bauman.
A memorial service will be held at Living Light Mennonite Church, 2625 Safe Harbor Road, Washington Boro, PA on Sunday, November 19, 2023 at 3:00PM. Interment will be private in the adjoining cemetery. A visitation will be held following the service.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Rachel's memory to Living Light Mennonite Church, 2625 Safe Harbor Road, Washington Boro, PA 1758.
Rissler, Quentin David
June 4, 1970 - September 5, 2023
Quentin David Rissler, 53, of East Earl, passed away on Tuesday, September 5, 2023 at Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, following an illness of three and half months.
He was married to Darlene Fay Horning Rissler with whom he shared 31 wonderful years of life with. Born in Ephrata, he was the son of Floyd R. Rissler of East Earl, and the late Marian K. Newswanger Rissler.
For the past 14 years, Quentin has worked as a Program Manager for the Larson Design Group. Quentin was a distinguished engineer and mentor for the design community. For over three decades he has been published, given numerous industry presentations and has been relied upon to deliver unique engineering projects. He was a 1988 graduate of Garden Spot High School and received a Degree in Civil Engineering from Worcester Polytechnic Institute in 1992.
He was currently serving as lead pastor at Blue Ball Church of the Brethren, where he served for the past 18 years. He was known for being a faithful, kind, servant leader with a passion for teaching, discipling and sharing the gospel with others. He also valued serving the community. One of his favorite involvements was teaching and mentoring in the Blue Ball Release Time program. Even in his last days, his life was a testimony to the goodness of God.
He enjoyed planning trips and traveling, family game nights and spending time at the family cottage on the Susquehanna River.
Surviving besides his wife and father, are four daughters, Amanda wife of Adrian Horning of Lititz, Megan wife of Adam Kalu of Ephrata, Becca Rissler and Abby Rissler both of East Earl; two grandchildren, Laura and Moriah Horning; two brothers, Vince husband of Jenn Rissler and Kevin husband of Diane Rissler; and a sister, Becky wife of Rob Marshall.
A Funeral Service will be held on Tuesday, September 12, at 10:00 A.M. at Christian Fellowship Church, 758 Spruce Road, New Holland, PA. A viewing will be held at Christian Fellowship Church on Monday from 2:00 to 4:00 PM and 6:00 to 8:00 PM. On Tuesday the casket will be open from 9:00 AM until 9:45 AM for those wishing to view, however the family will not be greeting friends during this time. Interment in the Blue Ball Church of the Brethren Cemetery.
To send an online condolence to the family, visit www.groffeckenroth.com.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be given to Elanco Release Time - Blue Ball and made out to Gehman Accounting Attn: Blue Ball Released Time, 180 Diller Avenue, New Holland, PA 17557
Arrangements by the Groff High Funeral Home, New Holland, PA
Rodes, Ada Marie Beery
February 14, 1931 - November 8, 2023
Ada Marie Beery Rodes, 92, a resident of Port Republic, passed away at her home Wednesday, Nov. 8, 2023. Mrs. Rodes was born Feb. 14, 1931, in Rushville, and was the daughter of the late Ward E. and Mary Showalter Beery.
On Dec. 6, 1951, she was united in marriage to Noah L. Rodes, who preceded her in death Nov. 1, 2022.
She was a member of Pike Mennonite Church.
Ada was a homemaker and enjoyed hospitality, sewing and making many quilts. She also crocheted over 500 lap robes, which she donated to hospice and gave to family and friends.
Surviving are her children, Marie (Nelson) Showalter, Nelson (Dawn) Rodes, Glenn (Sheri) Rodes, and Allen (Krista) Rodes, all of Port Republic; 13 grandchildren, Marlan Showalter, Sherman Showalter, Marilla Melcher, Evan Showalter, Gary Rodes, Justin Rodes, Adam Rodes, Kelsie Garber, Cara Rodes, Erica Rodes, Lorna Knicely, Brady Rodes, Corina Rodes; 18 great-grandchildren; siblings, Wilda Beery of Harrisonburg, Anna Rohrer, Ward (Sadie) Beery, all of Dayton; sister-in-law, Mary Beery of Dayton; and numerous nieces and nephews.
In addition to her parents, she preceded in death by a granddaughter, Sharla Rodes King; and siblings, Ruth Shirk, David Beery, Mabel Knicley, Joseph Beery, Daniel Beery, Hettie Rohrer, Emory Beery, and Mary Beery.
The family will receive friends Friday, Nov. 10, 2023, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Pike Mennonite Church.
The ministers of the church will conduct a funeral service Saturday, Nov. 11, at 10 a.m. at Pike Mennonite Church. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.
Online condolences may be made to the family by visiting www.mcmullenfh.com.
McMullen Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Rohrer, T. Grace Sollenberger
January 5, 1929 - March 10, 2023
T. Grace Rohrer, 94, of Lititz and formerly of East Hempfield Township, died peacefully on Friday, March 10, 2023 at the United Zion Retirement Community, Lititz. Born in East Lampeter Township, she was the daughter of the late John and Mary Groff Sollenberger. She was the loving wife of the late Daniel H. Rohrer, Jr. who died in 2019. Affectionally known as the "Apple Lady" she helped her husband at the former Rohrer's Farm Market. She was also a school bus driver for the Hempfield School District and worked for Home Health Care at Brethren Village. Grace was a member of East Petersburg Mennonite Church where she taught Sunday school, Bible school and was involved with the sewing circle. She was also a member of the Farm Women Society #19. Grace enjoyed quilting and she loved to spend time with her family.
Surviving are three sons: Daniel III husband of Mary Rohrer of Fredericksburg, TX, Dudley husband of Beth Rohrer and Dwight husband of Rosie Rohrer both of Manheim, three daughters: Sandra wife of Leonard Good of Palmyra, Sheryl wife of Lawrence Mummau of Honey Grove and Sue wife of Leo Tubay of Lancaster; 15 grandchildren, 35 great grandchildren and two great great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by three brothers and four sisters.
Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Grace's Life Celebration Service at East Petersburg Mennonite Church, 6279 Main Street, East Petersburg on Thursday, March 16, 2023 at 7:00 PM. Friends may visit with the family at the church on Thursday evening from 5:00 PM until the time of service. Interment will be private in the adjoining church cemetery. In lieu of flowers, those desiring may send contributions in Grace's memory to United Zion Retirement Community, Benevolent Care, 722 Furnace Hills Pike, Lititz, PA 17543.
Ropp, Erma Jane Kauffman
July 22, 1931 – June 02, 2023
KALONA, IOWA – Erma Jane Ropp, 91, of Kalona, died Friday, June 2, 2023, at the University of Iowa Hospital in Iowa City.
Erma was born July 22, 1931, near Kalona, Iowa, the daughter of Chester and Catherine (Clingdanel) Kauffman. On November 25, 1948, Erma was united in marriage to Emil Howard Ropp. Emil & Erma were charter members of Kalona Mennonite Church. In her younger years, she taught herself cake decorating and baked and sold over 170 cakes. In 1983, Emil and Erma built and ran Country Livin’, a gift and candy store on Hwy 1. Later Erma became a realtor & opened and operated Kalona Realty from 1987-1992. Erma was the heart of her family, and she loved spending time in the kitchen cooking and baking for them. Her home-cooked meals and pastries were one of the ways she brought them together. Erma also enjoyed flower gardening, knitting, crocheting, drawing, and making stained glass. She was very artistic and was always perfecting a new skill. Erma was much loved by her family and will be deeply missed.
Erma is survived by her four children: James Ropp of Evans, Colorado, and his children: Jacquelyn Ropp, Jenna (Erik) Blais, Jamie Ropp; Juanita (Gordon) Troyer of Kalona, and their children: Andrea Troyer, Patrick Troyer, Christopher Troyer; Vivian (Fred) Martin of Washington, and their children: Scott (Alicia) Marner, Teri Marner, Jeff (Jenni) Marner; Kim (Kent) Lehman of Kalona, and their children: Jacob (Katie) Lehman, Michelle (Matthew) Zook, Emily (Isaac) Bixler, Karlee, Katelyn, Rachel, Grace, Faith Lehman; and nine great-grandchildren. Also surviving are three sisters: Marilyn Hunt of Riverside, Dawn Whitlock of Riverside, Gayle Barrett of Sultan, Washington; and two brothers Wayne Kauffman of Riverside and Robert Kauffman of Ainsworth. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Emil, three brothers: infant Paul, Lowell, John, and three brothers-in-law.
Celebration of Life Service will be held at 3:00 pm Wednesday, June 7, 2023, at the Kalona Mennonite Church. Pastor Josh Lundberg will officiate. Burial will be in the Sharon Hill Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 3:00 - 7:00 PM on Tuesday, June 6, 2023, at the Yoder-Powell Funeral Home in Kalona. A memorial fund has been established for Pleasantview Nursing Home. The Yoder-Powell Funeral Home is caring for Erma and her family.
Ropp, Ezra J.
October 19, 1936 - September 26, 2023
Ezra "Ez" J. Ropp, 86, of Middlebury, died at 7:47 am on Tuesday, September 26, [2023] at his residence. He was born on October 19, 1936, in Iowa City, IA, to Jeff and Laura (Bontrager) Ropp. On November 27, 1974, in Middlebury he married Mary Eash, she survives.
Survivors in addition to his wife are three daughters, Gail (Lynn) Schrock, Sheila (Doug) Beachy, and Eydie (Tim) Kozlowski all of Middlebury; four grandchildren, Chandler and Erin Beachy and Caleb and Emily Schrock; three sisters; and three brothers.
He was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters; and one brother.
Ez was the owner/operator of Ropp’s Construction for 40 years. He enjoyed spending his time volunteering with Habitat and MDS (Mennonite Disaster Services). He was a member of the First Mennonite Church. Ez and his wife spent the past 21 years enjoying the winter months in Florida.
Visitation will be from 4:00 - 7:00 pm on Thursday, September 28, at Miller-Stewart Funeral Home, 1003 South Main Street Middlebury. Funeral services will be at 10:00 am on Friday, September 29, at First Mennonite Church, Middlebury. Services will be conducted by Pastors Phil Yoder and Tim Eash. Burial will be in Grace Lawn Cemetery, Middlebury. Memorials may be given to the Middlebury Food Panty.
Rudy, Lucy G. Gehman
November 19, 1924 - July 5, 2023
Lucy G. Rudy, 98, a resident at Fairmount Homes, Ephrata, died on July 5, 2023, surrounded by family. Lucy, born in East Earl on November 19, 1924, was the daughter of the late Harry and Sarah (Eby) Gehman. She was married to John H. Rudy for 73 years, marrying on January 18, 1947.
Lucy grew up on a farm near Selinsgrove and came to Lancaster as a teenager to work. She and her husband and children resided in Lancaster until 1960 when she became a pastor's wife at Bethel Mennonite Church, Gettysburg. In 1965, they moved to Goshen, Indiana, where she was an active member of College Mennonite Church, a volunteer with numerous organizations, and the manager of the Goshen College snack shop, befriending many college students and staff during that time.
After returning to Lancaster in 1984, she continued volunteer work with several organizations and was an active member of Forest Hills Mennonite Church, Leola. She was involved in church sewing circle work for over 65 years, including serving as the president of the Forest Hills Mennonite Women for 17 years. She pieced hundreds of comforter tops for Mennonite Central Committee as well as sewing, knitting and collecting many other items for relief work.
She was an avid reader, reading the Bible through many times and reading dozens of books a year, well into her 90s. She also enjoyed all kinds of needlework throughout her life and continued to knit well into her 90s. She did a lot of entertaining in her home over the years and was an excellent cook and baker, especially of pies. She traveled to all 50 states and to numerous foreign countries with her husband, especially enjoying many trips to Japan to see their son. She was a very sweet and loving person who made friends wherever she went.
Surviving are a son Thomas, husband of Sherrill, Allison Park, Pennsylvania; a daughter Susan, Falls Church, Virginia; a daughter-in-law Kazuko, Tokyo, Japan; a grandson, Ian, husband of Angela, and 2 great-granddaughters, Marlee and Angelina, Gibsonia, Pennsylvania. Lucy was preceded in death by her husband John, an infant daughter Marjorie, and an adult son James. She is also survived by two brothers, Jacob and Martin Gehman. She was preceded in death by 2 sisters, Edith Groff and Grace Aungst, and 3 brothers, Arthur, John and Lester Gehman. She was a beloved aunt to many nieces and nephews.
A viewing will be held on Saturday, July 22, 2023, at 10:00 a.m., with the funeral following at 11:00 a.m., both at Forest Hills Mennonite Church, 100 Quarry Road, Leola. After a meal at the church, burial will be at 3:00 p.m. at Stony Brook Mennonite Cemetery, 3696 Cheltenham Rd., York.
Contributions in her memory may be made to Mennonite Central Committee or Forest Hills Mennonite Church. Special thanks to Fairmount Homes for their loving care of Lucy in recent months and to Oak Leaf Manor North, Landisville, for their loving care of her for the prior 6 years. The Groff-High Funeral Home, New Holland, is in charge of arrangements.
Rutt, Elam B.
October 9, 1937 - August 14, 2023
Elam B. Rutt, 85, of Ephrata, passed away on Monday, August 14, 2023, at his residence. He was born in Ephrata to the late John N. and Lydia M. (Burkholder) Rutt and was the husband of the late Joann (Martin) Rutt, who passed away in 2021.
Elam worked as a farmer.
Elam is survived by seven children, Kenneth L., husband of Marilyn H. (Wenger) Rutt of Lititz, Norma Jean, wife of Arnold H. Hahn of Middleburg, Marlin R., husband of Jeanette H. (Burkholder) Rutt of Lititz, Stanley D., husband of Ilene B. (Weaver) Rutt of Denver, Michael L. Rutt of Ephrata, Beth L, wife of Linford Musser of Myerstown, Diane R., wife of Linford Wenger of Leola; a son-in-law, Aaron R. Zimmerman; thirty-eight grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren; four sisters, Leah B., wife of Clair Zimmerman of Ephrata, Luella B., wife of Glenn Zimmerman of Lebanon, Frances B., wife of Phares Musser of Newmanstown and Marlene B., wife of the late Marlin Martin of Myerstown.
In addition to his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by a daughter, Virginia M. (Rutt) Zimmerman and four siblings, Anna B. Zimmerman, Ervin B. Rutt, Alverta B. Burkholder and Earl B. Rutt.
A viewing will be held on Sunday, August 20, 2023, from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 PM at the Middle Creek Mennonite Fellowship Center, 520 PA-897, Reinholds, PA. Funeral services will be held on Monday, August 21, 2023, at 9:30 AM at the Meadow Valley Mennonite Church, 200 E. Meadow Valley Rd., Ephrata with Bishop Quinton Wenger officiating. Interment will take place in the adjoining church cemetery.
Kindly omit flowers.
Arrangements by Stradling Funeral Homes, Inc., Akron/Ephrata.
Rutt, Gladys McGinnis
January 16, 1927 - February 10, 2023
Gladys McGinnis Rutt, 96, of Fairmount Homes, Ephrata and formerly of Blue Ball passed away Friday, February 10, 2023. Born January 16, 1927 in Paradise, PA to the late Howard and Myrtle Houck McGinnis, she married Mervin S. Rutt on December 31, 1948.
Gladys was an honors graduate of the former New Holland High School, class of 1945, and an honors graduate of the Lancaster General Hospital School of Nursing, class of 1948. She worked in nursing for over 50 years.
A long-time member of New Holland Mennonite Church, she served as adult Sunday School teacher, member of Church Council, Pastoral Team and Mutual Care Director.
She was the first woman to serve on Lancaster Conference Voluntary Service Committee and was on Landis Homes Board of Directors. She was Corresponding Secretary on Ephrata Christian Women's Aglow Board, served as Vice-president of Homebuilders of Lancaster Conference and taught Bible Study classes at Fairmount Homes, Mennonite Home and Sunday School classes at Landis Homes.
Gladys was an avid reader, enjoyed travel with her husband and entertaining family, friends or strangers. Her true delight was welcoming additions to the family, whether by marriage or adoption.
She is survived by husband, Mervin, sister Maribelle Steffy, brother Melvin McGinnis (Lynn Dussinger) and 7 children: Jack (Gloria Short), Janis (Richard Landes), Philip (Marian Hollinger), Mary Beth (Donald Kautz), Mervin Jr. (Ellen Carroll), Theodore Rutt and Rebecca Martin, 19 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by brother, Carl McGinnis.
Services will be Saturday, February 18, at New Holland Mennonite Church, 18 Western Ave., New Holland, PA with 1:00pm visitation and 2:00pm funeral. Burial will follow in New Holland Mennonite Cemetery. To send an online condolence to the family, visit www.GroffEckenroth.com. Arrangements by the Groff High Funeral Home, New Holland, PA.
Rutt, Mervin S., Sr.
January 23, 1927 - November 16, 2023
Mervin S. Rutt, Sr. of Fairmount Homes passed away Thursday, November 16, 2023. He was born in Blue Ball, PA the son of John C. and Clara Stauffer Rutt and married Gladys McGinnis Rutt on December 31, 1948.
He graduated from New Holland High School in 1944 and immediately began working at New Holland Machine, eventually becoming the first service representative in the Baler Department. He traveled extensively, servicing balers in 46 of the 48 states in three years. Seven years later he began work at New Holland Concrete as salesman then sales manager and eventually operations manager to complete 41 years of service. In his retirement, he worked part-time for 16 years at Premier Custom-Built Cabinet Company.
Mervin was a long-time member of New Holland Mennonite Church where he served as Sunday School teacher, Sunday School superintendent, Church Council member and Day Care Board member. He was instrumental in starting an early morning prayer group which continued for many years. Mervin served with Mennonite Disaster Service in Louisiana.
He served his community in leadership positions at the Blue Ball Fire Company and the Blue Ball Water Authority. He also served on MEDA's Befrienders Committee and Naaman Center board, ministering to persons in crises. He also served a term as secretary of PA Concrete Pipe Association.
Mervin enjoyed gardening, making wood gifts for his children for Christmas, nature and travel. He and his wife were privileged to travel several times to Europe, including to a granddaughter's wedding in Germany, to the British Isles, India, Costa Rica, Belize, Alaska and Canada.
Most of all he enjoyed time spent with his family. He particularly enjoyed hearing family members play instrumental music and singing.
He is survived by his seven children, Jack (Gloria Short), Jan (Richard Landes), Philip (Marian Hollinger), Mary Beth (Donald Kautz), Mervin, Jr. (Ellen Carroll), Ted and Rebecca Martin, 19 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren.
He was predeceased by his wife Gladys McGinnis Rutt, parents John and Clara Rutt and sister, Arlene Weaver.
Services will be Saturday, November 25 at New Holland Mennonite Church, 18 Western Ave., New Holland, PA. A Celebration of Life Service begins at 2:00pm followed by family visitation and hors d'oeuvres. Burial will be performed privately prior to the service. To send an online condolence to the family, visit www.GroffEckenroth.com. Arrangements by the Groff High Funeral Home, New Holland, PA.