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.
2015 G
Surviving is a sister, Ruth (Martin) Stucky.
Memorial services were held February 12, 2015 at Schowalter Villa Chapel, Hesston, KS with burial in Eastlawn Cemetery, Hesston, KS.
Submitted by: Norma Diller, Hesston, KS
Edited by: Thelma Hoover Martin
David graduated from Elizabethtown High School class of 1951. He was a poultry farmer in East Donegal Township. David was a member at Elizabethtown Brethren in Christ Church where he served as a Deacon. He was also a member of the Rotary Club of Donegal and the Lancaster Farm Credit Board.
Surviving in addition to his wife, Edna, are two children, Joan Brosius wife of Leslie Jr., of Mount Joy, and Joe Garber husband of Meg, of Bainbridge. Also surviving is a grandson, Timothy Brosius of Mount Joy.
He was preceded in death by two brothers, Paul Garber Jr. and Rev. John Garber; and two sisters, Nancy Brubaker and Sara Garber.
A memorial service honoring David's life will be held at the Elizabethtown Brethren in Christ Church 996 East High Street, Elizabethtown on Monday, October 5, 2015 at 11 AM. Family will receive friends at the church following the service. Interment will be private at Bossler Mennonite Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Donegal Area Rotary Club366 South Market Street Att: Thomas McGrath for the East Donegal Food Bank.
Intelligencer Journal - 9/30/2015
Lancaster, PA
Submitted by: Robert Fish
She was born June 19, 1926 at Hubbard, OR to Daniel Jacob and Ella (Egli) Lais. Daniel was born July 28, 1884 and died August 25, 1958. Ella was born January 23, 1887 and died October 22, 1955.
On September 1, 1948 at Hubbard, OR she was married to John Ellsworth Garber, who was born November 14, 1923 and died April 4, 2006.
Surviving are children: Phyllis Early (husband, Roy Early); Paul Garber (wife, Gwen); John Garber (wife, Cheryl); Mary Garber Saleh (husband, Faisal Saleh); David Garber; Joy Yoder (husband, Les Yoder); Ruth Claassen (husband, Richard Claassen); and Richard Garber (wife, Brenda); 26 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren; and a sister, Frances Dora Hoover.
Her siblings: Orpha Fisher, Violet Celestia Lais, Rose Lena Blair, Eva Mary Kenagy, Lavern John Lais; Lilly Mae Berkey, Dorothy Ella Gingerich, Susan Hazel Stanerson, Daniel Franklin Lais, Ruth Elenora Zehr, Marjorie Eula Birky, and Evelyn Lorene Birky preceded her in death.
Memorial services were held January 25, 2015 at Zion Mennonite Church, Hubbard, OR with burial in the adjoining cemetery.
Submitted by: Joy Yoder, Lebanon, OR
Edited by: Thelma Hoover Martin
He was born in Terre Hill to the late Henry and Susie Mae (Zimmerman) Garman and was the husband of Charmaine (Petry) Garman with whom he shared 51 years of marriage.
Ivan currently attended Calvary Church in Lancaster and had been an active member of Ephrata Mennonite Church, where he served on various committees. He was involved in mission work, he had served in Guatemala, Nicaragua, Ecuador and Haiti. He was also a volunteer for Teen Missions International in Merritt Island, FL for many years.
A well known home builder, Ivan was known for his meticulous eye for detail. He and his wife Charmaine founded Garman Builders in 1972, which is currently run by their children. He was a member of the Lancaster County Building Industry Association. His homes have been recognized throughout Lancaster County for their design, quality and detail. Ivan had served in I-W Service at Memorial Hospital as an orderly in South Bend, Indiana from 1963-1965. Ivan loved to work hard, you would often hear him say, "work is my hobby." He also enjoyed traveling, spending time with his children and grandchildren, his Florida home, the ocean, boating and working in his yard.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by his 4 children, Michelle Garman of Ephrata, Michael, husband of Rebecca (Lefever) Garman of Lititz, Shawn, husband of Joan (Martin) Garman of Lititz, Jason, husband of Noel (Benner) Garman of Lititz; 8 grandchildren, Jared, Matthew, Jacob, Brandon, Shannon, Abigail, Amber and Brooke Garman; 5 brothers, John Z. Garman of Ephrata, Henry Z., husband of Erma Garman of New Holland, Irvin Z., husband of Laura Garman of Milton, IA, Aaron Z., husband of Ella Garman of Penn Yan, NY, Clarence Z., husband of Alta Garman of East Earl; 7 sisters, Mary Z., wife of David Nolt of Martinsburg, Laura Z., wife of Mervin Martin of Roaring Spring, Susan Z. Reiff of Fortuna, MO, Anna Z., wife of Carl Martin of Goshen, IN, Eva Z., wife of Phares Martin of Leola, Ruth Z., wife of Elmer Oberholtzer of New Enterprise and Alta Z., wife of Menno Zimmerman of Orchard, IA.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a granddaughter, Kassie Joy Garman and a brother, Levi Z. Garman.
A viewing will be held on Thursday, February 19, from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m., at the Alive Church, formerly Ephrata Mennonite Chuch, 510 Stevens Road, Ephrata. An additional viewing will be held on Friday, February 20, from 10 to 11 a.m., at the church, followed by his funeral service at 11 a.m., with Pastor Paul Thompson officiating. Interment will take place in the Middle Creek Church of the Brethren Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Ivan's memory may be made to YWAM-Haiti, PO Box 236, Akron, PA 17501 or Bethany Christian Services of Lancaster, 1681 Crown Ave., Suite 201, Lancaster, PA 17601-6314 or Hospice & Community Care, P. O. Box 4125, Lancaster, PA 17604.
Arrangements by Stradling Funeral Homes, Inc., Akron/ Ephrata.
Intelligencer Journal - 2/16/2015
Lancaster, PA
Submitted by: Robert Fish
MOUNT PLEASANT MILLS - Harvey L. Gehman, 82, of Mount Pleasaant Mills, entered into rest on Tuesday, April 14, 2015, at the SUN Home Hospice Care Center, Sunbury.
He was born April 24, 1932, in Kantz, Snyder County, a son of the late John H. and Lena (Stauffer) Gehman-Reinard. On March 8, 1956, he married the former Eloise Louise "Mickey" Shafer who survives. His passing breaks a marital union of 59 years.
Harvey retired from Rhoads Mills, Selinsgrove. He was previously employed in construction for Hempt Brothers, Camp Hill, and a truck driver for Ivan P. Lauver and Son, Inc., Mount Pleasant Mills. He was also engaged in farming.
He was a member of the Richfield Mennonite Church.
Harvey enjoyed woodworking and fixing clocks. He especially enjoyed taking rides in his golf cart.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by one daughter and son-in-law, Karen and Robert Moyer, of Port Trevorton; three grandchildren, Jeremiah Moyer, Joshua Moyer and his wife, Annette, and Jenny Zeigler and her husband, Jeremy; eight great-grandchildren, Sarah, Logan, Rachel, Hallie, Daniel, Emily, Mason, and Owen; two sisters and one brother-in-law, Evelyn and Norman Groff, of Millmont, and Patricia Yoder, of Mount Pleasant Mills; one sister-in-law, Dorothy Gehman, of Canada; and nieces and nephews.
He was preceded by his adopted parents, Anna L. and Robert Brubaker; his stepfather, Wilson Reinard; one brother, Dr. John Robert Gehman; and one sister, Mary Katherine Berkheimer.
Friends and family are invited to the viewing from 9 to 10 a.m. Friday at the Richfield Mennonite Church, 167 Church St., Richfield, followed by the funeral at 10, with Pastor Aaron Benner officiating. A fellowship meal will follow the service.
Burial will be private in Witmer's West Cemetery, Port Trevorton.
Sunbury Daily Item - 4/16/2015
Sunbury, PA
Submitted by: Robert Fish
Erma attended Hess Christian Day School and was a member of Hernley Mennonite Church, Manheim, where she taught children's classes. A homemaker, Erma enjoyed making and selling crafts, especially quilted stars.
She loved people, ministering to many by praying steadfastly for them, sending cards and flowers, sharing books, giving gifts and volunteering at the Mennonite Home gift shop. Erma loved spending time with her family, especially her children and grandchildren.
Special thanks to her many compassionate caregivers who served her so well for so many years, particularly Lucy Weaver and Dr. John Slovak and nurse practitioner Lisa Rathman.
Surviving in addition to her husband are daughter Carolyn L,. wife of James Stauffer of Lititz; son Ronald L., husband of Joanne Wenger Geib of Milton; eight grandchildren, Heather, Lindsey, Michael, Gregory, Joshua, Bethany, Bryan and Benjamin; great grandson Seth; brother Albert S. Weaver of Ephrata; and sisters Mildred Mohler of Ephrata and Gladys, wife of Wilbur Engle of West Chester. She was preceded in death by brother Melvin Weaver.
Her funeral service will be held at Erb Mennonite Church, 567 W. Lexington Road, Lititz, at 9:30 a.m. Saturday, June 27. Public viewings will be held at Erb Mennonite Church on Friday, June 26, from 6\'968 p.m. and Saturday from 8:30 a.m. until the service. Interment will be in Hernley Mennonite Cemetery, Rapho Township. To send online condolences, please visit. Buch Funeral Home
Intelligencer Journal - 6/25/2015
Lancaster, PA
Submitted by: Robert Fish
He was born July 19, 1923 at Kidron, Wayne Co., Ohio to Grover Cleveland and Fairy Alice (Amstutz) Gerber. Grover was born in 1894 and died in 1967. Fairy Alice was born in 1896 and died in 1988.
On June 21, 1949 at Mountain Lake he was married to Edna Buller, who was born August 4, 1920 and survives.
Surviving are children, Daniel Peter (Terry) Gerber; Rebecca (Becky) Ann (Rick) Ruddy; and Joanna Lynn (Randy) Pinkerton; six grandchildren, sister, Celia Lehman; brothers-law, Clarence Buller, and Henry Buller; and sister-in-law, Shirley Newman.
Sisters, Dorothy Schrock, and Ruth Gerber; brothers-in-law, David Schrock, Harold Buller, and Peter Buller preceded him in death.
"Ellis J. Gerber was born to Fairy (Amstutz) and Grover Gerber on July 19, 1923 near Kidron, Ohio. Ellis had an older sister, Dorothy and two younger sisters, Ruth and Celia. Ellis helped his mother and father on the farm during the economic depression of the 1930's. Anabaptist faith was an important part of the Gerber household. Ellis was baptized February 7, 1936 by Aaron Mast at the Kidron Tabernacle and was received into membership at the Sonnenburg Mennonite Church. He loved to read the Bible and learned to milk cows with the Bible perched on his knee. Since the third grade when the church gave him a Bible, he has read through a different version every year for over 80 years. He graduated from Dalton High. Then for a number of years he worked for local farmers and a feed mill in order to save money to attend Goshen College.
Once in Goshen, Ellis met the love of his life in a singing group. Ellis and
Edna (Buller) married on June 21, 1949. Both graduated from Goshen (Indiana) College with teaching certificates. They both had a heart for missionary service. Their first mission assignment was a home mission in Dillonvale, Ohio.
In 1953, Ellis and Edna answered the call to serve in the Belgian Congo with Congo Inland Mission, the predecessor of Africa Inter-Mennonite Mission (AIMM). While serving as missionary teachers in Belgian Congo, they had three children: Daniel, Rebecca, and Joanna. During their 20 years with AIMM they lived within the struggle of political upheaval as the Congolese rebelled against the Belgian government. On furlough in 1967, Ellis received his Master's degree in French from Mankato State College.
In 1973, they returned to the United States and settled in Mountain Lake (MN) where Ellis became the manager of Mennonite Mutual Insurance Association (property insurance, now part of MAX--Mutual Aid Exchange) until he retired in 1988. As Mennonite Mutual Aid (health insurance) representative for his church at the same time, he was the go-to person for counsel about insurance issues for many in the community. After retirement Ellis volunteered with Mennonite Housing in Wichita, Kansas, and served in Haiti on a Christian Peacemaker Team. He had many interests: Bible reading, restoring old houses, gardening, collecting antiques and writing. He was the president of the Cottonwood County Bird Club and served in the church as a deacon and a Sunday school teacher. He also helped Laotian people acclimate to the Mt. Lake community, and sang with the Mt. Lake German singers. Due to declining health, Edna and Ellis moved to Cannon Falls, Minnesota, in spring of 2013, in order to be clo ser to their children. Ellis entered eternity peacefully on Tuesday, March 31, 2015, with his family gathered around in song and prayer.
Ellis was preceded in death by his parents, sisters Dorothy (Gerber) Schrock and Ruth Gerber, and brothers-in-law David Schrock, Harold Buller and Peter Buller. He is survived by his wife of more than 66 years, Edna (Buller) Gerber; his sister Celia (Gerber) Lehman; brothers-in-law Clarence Buller and Henry Buller: sister-in-law Shirley (Buller) Newman; three children: Dan and Terry (Coleman) Gerber of Minneapolis, Becky (Gerber) and Rick Ruddy of Cannon Falls and Joanna (Gerber) and Randy Pinkerton of Wichita, Kansas; six grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.
In lieu of flowers, the family invites those interested to make a donation to Africa Inter-Mennonite Mission, P.O. Box 744, Goshen, IN 46527-0744."
Memorial services were held April 6, 2015 at First Mennonite Church, Mountain Lake, MN with burial in Cornerstone (formerly EMB) Cemetery, Mountain Lake, MN.
Submitted by: E Elaine Kauffman, Mountain Lake, MN
Edited by: Thelma Hoover Martin
SHIPSHEWANA - Edna Irene Gingerich, 82, of Shipshewana, died at 9:25 p.m. Tuesday, July 21, at Parkview LaGrange Hospital. She had been ill for just one day.
She was born on March 5, 1933, in Marshall County, to the late Perry and Pennola (Boley) Hochstetler.
On June 9, 1955, in Shipshewana, she married Alvin Ray. He died Aug. 3, 2011.
Surviving are her children, Nola Jean (Mervin) Beechy, Erma Lou (Homer) Bontrager and Ruth Ann Gingerich, all of Shipshewana, Martha Sue (David) Knepp, Nelson Ray (Ruth) Gingerich of Middlebury and Merlin Lee (Suvilla) Gingerich; 20 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; and sisters Erma (Jacob) Beachy, Alma (Otis) Kuhns of Nappanee, Katie Kelley, and Ray (Helen) Hochstetler.
She was preceded in death by a son, Wayne Allen Gingerich, and brothers Emil, Lester and LeRoy Hochstetler.
Visitation will be all day Thursday, July 23, at the family home, 7235 W. 250 N., Shipshewana. Funeral services will be at 9:30 a.m. Friday, July 24, at the family home. Burial will be in East Barren Cemetery.
Arrangements are with Miller-Stewart Funeral Home.
The Elkhart Truth, Elkhart, IN
July 23, 2015
Submitted by: Thelma Hoover Martin
ELKHART - Katie Joan Gingerich, 67, passed away in her home Sunday morning, Nov. 22, after a steady decline in health the past three years.
She was born Aug. 21, 1948, in Kokomo, to Ralph and Clara (Hershberger) Yoder.
On Feb. 10, 1973, she married Paul E. Gingerich at Clinton Frame Mennonite Church.
He survives along with two sons, Ryan (Erica) Gingerich of Chicago and Nathan (Blair) Gingerich of St. Peters, Mo.; three grandchildren, Clara, Peter and Parker; three sisters, Betty (Sherm) Kauffman and Irma (Duane) Stutzman, both of Goshen, and Martha (Lee) Miller of Kokomo; and two brothers, Dennis Yoder of Kokomo and Larry (Janet) Yoder of Denver.
She was preceded in death by her parents and a daughter, Kendra Gingerich.
Joan taught in several elementary schools for Elkhart Community Schools. She retired from Osolo Elementary after 30 years of teaching. She had a passion for children and helping them learn.
Friends may call from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 27, and from 1 p.m. until the 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 28, funeral service at Sunnyside Mennonite Church in Elkhart. Pastors Terry Zehr and Melissa Fisher Fast will officiate. Cremation will follow the service. Burial will be at a later date in Clinton Union Cemetery in Goshen.
Memorials may be given to Sunnyside Mennonite Church.
Yoder-Culp Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.
The Elkhart Truth, Elkhart, IN
Nov. 24, 2015
Submitted by: Thelma Hoover Martin
LAGRANGE - Susie E. Gingerich, 65, died at 12:55 a.m. Wednesday, March 18.
She was born Nov. 13, 1949, in LaGrange, to the late William J. and Lovina (Helmuth) Yoder.
On Feb. 29, 1968, she married John E. Gingerich.
Her husband; children Velma (Lester) Bontrager, Vera Gingerich of Goshen, Allen Gingerich of Middlebury, James (Mable) Gingerich of LaGrange and Paul (Dora), John Jr. (Susan), Henry (Emily) and Phillip (Lisa) Gingerich; 20 grandchildren; and siblings Ida Mae (Ervin J.) Mast, Lou Ella (Perry) Bontrager and Henry (Carolyn) Yoder, both of Shipshewana, Ruby (Marion) Shrock, Wilbur (Amanda), Melvin (Polly) and Floyd (Dorothy) Yoder, all of LaGrange, Katherine (Kenneth) Hochstetler and Richard (Betty), Orla (Carolyn) and Harley (Mary Alice) Yoder survive.
A brother, Ernest Yoder, predeceased her.
Visitation will be after 2 p.m. Thursday, March 19, and all day Friday, March 20, at Larry Yoder's home, 4370 W. 200 N., LaGrange. Funeral services will be at 9:30 a.m. Saturday, March 21, at Larry Yoder's home. Burial will be in East Barren Cemetery.
Arrangements are with Miller-Stewart Funeral Home.
The Elkhart Truth, Elkhart, IN
March 19, 2015
Submitted by: Thelma Hoover Martin
MIDDLEBURY - Verton J. Gingerich, 93, of Middlebury, died at 7 p.m. Sunday, July 19, at Courtyard of Goshen after complications from congestive heart failure and double pneumonia.
He was born April 21, 1922, in Kalona, Iowa, to Dan G. and Fannie (Jantzi) Gingerich.
On May 15, 1947, in Elkhart County, he married Lydia Schrock. She died March 7, 2010.
Surviving are five daughters, Florence (Ron) Ard of Sarasota, Fla., Ruby (Jerry) Bontrager of Middlebury, Wilma (Reuben) Miller of Sarasota and Dorothy "Dot" (Larry) Chupp and Ellen (Sheldon) Graber, both of Shipshewana; a son, Glen (Elsie) Gingerich of White Pigeon, Mich.; 15 grandchildren; 46 great-grandchildren; three sisters, Nina Miller and Alice Hochstedler, both of Kalona, and Ella June (Eldon) Miller of Rowdy, Ky.; and two sisters-in-law, Ada Gingerich of Colorado Springs, Colo., and Clara Gingerich of Iowa City, Iowa.
He was preceded in death by his wife; parents; stillborn son Robert Lee Gingerich; and four brothers, Alvin, Ivo, George and Leslie Gingerich.
He was a member of Riverview Mennonite Church in White Pigeon and retired from Schult Homes in 1987. He served in Civilian Public Service in Fort Collins, Colo., and Kalamazoo, Mich. He lived a full life and remained alert to the end.
Visitation will be from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, July 22, at Miller-Stewart Funeral Home, 1003 S. Main St., Middlebury. There will also be visitation from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m., followed by a 10:30 a.m. funeral service, Thursday, July 23, at Riverview Mennonite Church in White Pigeon. Services will be conducted by Pastor Merlin Miller. Family and friends may gather for a graveside service at 2 p.m. Thursday in Miller Cemetery in Goshen.
Memorials may be given to Riverview Mennonite Church or Clinton Christian School. Online condolences may be sent at www.millerstewartfuneralhome.com.
The Elkhart Truth, Elkhart, IN
July 21, 2015
Submitted by: Thelma Hoover Martin
Benuel is survived by his wife Anna Ruth Stoltzfus Glick and five children (all at home): Ivan, Matthew, Steven, Regina, and Benjamin. He is also survived by his mother, Lydia, two brothers, Jacob F. Glick of New Holland and Stephen Glick of New Holland, and four sisters, Rachel S. Glick of New Holland, Sarah married to Elmer Miller of New Holland, Mary S. married to Melvin Esh of Delta, Pa., and Rebecca S. Glick of New Holland.
He was preceded in death by his father and infant twin sisters, Lydia and Lizzie.
A viewing will be held at Weavertown Amish Mennonite Church, 2900 Church Road, Bird-in-Hand, Pa., Wednesday, January 28, 2015 from 2-4 PM and 6-8 PM.
Funeral service was January 29, 2015 at Ridgeview Mennonite Church, Gordonville PA Interment in Weavertown Amish Mennonite cemetery.
Source: Lancaster online
Submitted by Leon Hertzler
Surviving are a son, Robert Glick.
Two sons, Richard Glick and James Glick preceded him in death.
Memorial services were held January 26, 2015 at Maple Grove Mennonite Church, Belleville, PA with burial in Locust Grove Cemetery Belleville, PA.
Submitted by: JoAnn Byler, Belleville, PA
Edited by: Thelma Hoover Martin
Survivors include a brother, Vernon A. (Hazel) Good of Harrisonburg; six nephews, James (Karron) Good of Aroda, Va., John (Rosemary) Good of Bluffton, Ohio, Edwin (Velda) Good of Continental, Ohio, Daniel (Rachel) Good of Heron, Mont., Ira B. (Debra) Good of Continental, Ohio, and Paul (Michelle) Good of Oneida, Ky.; three nieces, Dorothy Cassidy of Pandora, Ohio, Naomi (Bob) Yoder of Hicksville and Fannie Ellen Flint of West Unity, Ohio; 36 great-nieces and nephews, and 51 great-great-nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by one brother, Ira D. Good; a sister-in-law, MaryAnne Good; and two nephews, Darrell Good and Weldon Good.
Grace was a member of Pike Mennonite Church in Harrisonburg. Grace was a graduate of Piquad Elementary and graduated nursing school in Norfolk. She was a LPN and worked her summers at St. Rita's Hospital in Lima and her winters in Sarasota, Fla. She retired in 1994 and moved to Virginia Mennonite Retirement Center in Harrisonburg, where she resided until four years ago when she moved to Hicksville to live with her niece and family. She enjoyed traveling having taken trips to Israel, Switzerland and Alaska as well as to many states in the U.S.A. She was a word search and crossword puzzle fan and spent many hours crocheting afghans and crafts for the Mennonite Relief programs. She was devoted to her parents as she cared for them for many years.
Funeral services will be held at Pike Mennonite Church in Elida on Saturday, Nov. 14, 2015, at 10 a.m. with visitation Friday from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. and one hour prior to the service on Saturday at Pike Mennonite Church. Burial will follow at the church cemetery.
Daily News Record - 11/10/2015
Harrisonburg, VA
Submitted by: Robert Fish
Surviving are two brothers, Claude Good of Souderton, PA and Ernest Good, husband of Ellen (Weaver) of Carlsbad, NM. Also surviving are two brothers-in-law, Samuel Horst and John Kurtz, as well as one sister-in-law, Grace (Bower) Good.
She was preceded in death by brothers, Webster, James, and Lawrence Good, and sisters, Elizabeth Horst, Barbara Kurtz, and Catherine Kurtz.
Memorial services were held April 3, 2015 at Landisville Mennonite Church, Landisville, Lancaster Co., PA.
Submitted by: Christy Kauffman, Landisville PA
Edited by: Thelma Hoover Martin
He was born June 14, 1940, to David J. and Edith (Slaubaugh) Graber.
He was employed by Selmer Corp. for over 30 years, and was a resident of Elkhart for over 50 years.
John is survived by his wife of 48 years, Lucy (Shevchenko); son John Graber of Oregon; daughter Jennifer (Stuart) Reilly of Valparaiso; and grandchildren Alexandra and Brennen of Oregon and Jack and Dylan of Valparaiso. He has seven remaining siblings who reside in Daviess County. John was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Lowell Graber.
John enjoyed spending time with his family, listening to music and anything to do with his beloved Mopar cars. John had an extremely loving, generous and caring heart. His sense of humor will be missed by all.
Visitation will be from 3 to 4:30 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 18, at Providence Mennonite Church in Montgomery. A memorial service will follow.
The Elkhart Truth, Elkhart, IN
Jan. 8 2015
Submitted by: Thelma Hoover Martin
GOSHEN - John Henry Graber, 92, died Saturday, Nov. 28, in Sarasota, Fla.
He was born Jan. 21, 1923 in Arthur, Ill., to Abe and Katie (Marner) Graber.
On June 20, 1998, he married Annie (Miller) Mast in Goshen.
She survives along with a daughter, Lydia (Darrell) Kauffman of Goshen; a son, Benjamin Graber of Orlando, Fla.; a daughter-in-law, Carolyn Graber of Goshen; five stepchildren, Betty Mast of Sarasota, Ida Marie (Titus) Yoder of North Carolina, Mabel Fern (Gene) Bontrager of West Cliff, Colo., Vera Jane (Lonnie) Miller of Plain City, Ohio, and Karen Louise (Crist) Fisher of Lititz, Pa.; six grandchildren; 19 step-grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; 13 great-stepgrandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren; and two great-great-stepgrandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife, Maggie; a son, Abraham Graber; a sister, Martha Crapo; and two brothers, George and Joseph Graber.
A farmer and truck driver, Mr. Graber worked in factories doing maintenance work and had a wood shop, where he made furniture.
Friends may call from 2 to 5 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 9, at Yoder-Culp Funeral Home. A 10 a.m. Thursday funeral service will be at Pleasant View Mennonite Church, with Pastor Tyler Hartford officiating. Burial will follow in Pleasant View Cemetery in Goshen.
The Elkhart Truth, Elkhart, IN
Dec. 5, 2015
Submitted by: Thelma Hoover Martin
MILLERSBURG - Katie Graber, 91, died at 6:50 a.m. Friday, Sept. 25, at home.
She was born Aug. 7, 1924, in Bremen, to the late Jonas and Barbara (Schmucker) Yoder.
On March 17, 1949, in Nappanee, she married Albert H. Graber. He died Nov. 4, 2013.
Surviving are her children, Esther (Menno) Schrock, Irene (Lester) Hochstetler and Glen (Polly) Graber, both of Millersburg, Nelson (Ruby) Graber of Shipshewana, Jonas (Diane) and Paul (Carol) Graber, both of Nappanee, and Marvin (Lydia) Graber; daughter-in-law Terry Graber of Milford; 28 grandchildren; 39 great-grandchildren; one great-great-granddaughter; and siblings Clara Miller of Milford and Glen (Sherrill) Yoder of Nappanee.
She was predeceased by two sons, Harvey and Ervin Graber; one granddaughter; and seven siblings.
Visitation will be after 1 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 26, and all day Sunday, Sept. 27, at Glen Graber's home, 10870 C.R. 44, Millersburg. Services will be at 9:30 a.m. Monday, Sept. 28, at David Hochstetler's home, 67862 E. County Line Road, Millersburg. Burial will be in Weldy Cemetery.
Arrangements are with Miller-Stewart Funeral Home.
The Elkhart Truth, Elkhart, IN
Sept. 26, 2015
Submitted by: Thelma Hoover Martin
He was born July 24, 1928 at Freeman to Jonathan F. and Kathryn (Graber) Graber. Jonathan was born October 20, 1894 and died September 20, 1971. Kathryn was born July 3, 1902 and died June 25, 1941.
On November 29, 1963 at Freeman he was married to E. Arybelle Tschetter, who was born November 16, 1935 and survives.
Surviving are children, Kendall (Julie) Graber, and Kathryn (Bret) Greve; five grandchildren, and a sister, Verda Saner.
Memorial services were held May 6, 2015 at Salem Mennonite Church Freeman, SD with burial in the adjoining cemetery.
Submitted by: Amy Waltner; Freeman, SD
Edited by: Thelma Hoover Martin
Surviving are children, Elizabeth Grasse, Rick & Linda Siemens, Tom & Sandra McKeon, Robert & Martha Young, John & Melissa Aberle-Grasse; eleven grandchildren, one great-grandchild, and siblings, Charles & Arlene Mininger, Janet Eash, Vernon & Linda Nyce, Harold & Donna.
A brother, Arden Stover and a sister, Mary Landis preceded her in death.
Memorial services were held May 14, 2015 at Blooming Glen Mennonite Church, Blooming Glen, PA with inurnment at Blooming Glen Mennonite Church.
Submitted by: Michelle _____, Blooming Glen PA
Edited by: Thelma Hoover Martin
He is survived by four children, John W. husband of Jeanine R. Graybill of Willow Street, Herbert H. husband of Elaine M. Graybill of New Providence, Miriam G. Thomas of Lititz, Midge H. wife of Robert L. Gerlach of Washington Boro; ten grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; a sister, Mary Hurst of Ephrata and a brother Ammon Graybill of Lancaster. He was preceded in death by siblings Elizabeth Good, Anna Mae Shaffer and Paul Graybill.
The funeral will be held on Thursday, April 2, 2015 at 11:00 AM at Willow Street Mennonite Church, 399 E. Penn Grant Rd., Willow Street, PA. Friends may call Wednesday, April 1, 2015 at 6-8:00 PM at West Bethany Chapel at Landis Homes, 1001 E. Oregon Rd., Lititz, PA and 10-11:00 AM Thursday at the church. Interment will be in Mechanic Grove Mennonite Church Cemetery.
Intelligencer Journal - 3/28/2015
Lancaster, PA
Submitted by: Robert Fish
Born in West Earl Twp., he was the son of the late Henry B. and Magdalene (Martin) Graybill. He was married 70 years on Feb. 10 to Edna (Nolt) Graybill.
Omar owned and operated a Buffalo Ranch for 27 years (1982 - 2009) and he also worked in the trucking business for 30 years prior to that.
He was a member of Bethany Grace Fellowship, the National Buffalo Association, and the Pennsylvania Buffalo Association where he served as past president.
Surviving in addition to his wife are five children, Gene, married to Marlyn Graybill of New Holland, Linda, married to Richard E. Leid of Denver, Donna, married to James Redcay of Denver, Kathy, married to David Helman of Stevens, and Thomas L. Graybill of Denver; seven grandchildren; five great grandchildren; four sisters and a brother, Lois, married to Paul Dagen, Jacob, married to Janet Graybill, Orpha Harnish, Eunice, married to Jessy Enk, and Marie, married to Levi Hoover.
Preceding him in death is an infant son; four brothers, Mervin, Paul, Arthur, and Noah Graybill; and a sister, Mary Schantz.
Funeral services will be held on Friday, September 11 at 2:30 pm at Bethany Grace Fellowship, 400 Reading Road, East Earl with the Reverend Adam Nagle and the Reverend Leon Shirk officiating. Interment will be in the Groffdale Mennonite Cemetery. Viewing will be held at the Church on Friday from 1 - 2:30 pm. To send the family online condolences visit us at w.groffeckenroth.com. Arrangements by Groff-High Funeral Home, New Holland.
Intelligencer Journal - 9/8/2015
Lancaster, PA
Submitted by: Robert Fish
GOSHEN - Lawrence Henry Greaser, 93, passed into eternal life Wednesday, April 29, in his home in Goshen.
He was born Feb. 17, 1922, near Garden City, Mo., to the Charles and Pearl (Hershberger) Greaser family.
At an early age he worked as a hired hand to help support his family, but the decision to allow the children to further their education at Hesston Academy and College was the beginning of a journey blessed with unimagined opportunities.
World War II changed many plans. As a conscientious objector, Lawrence served at the Terry, Mont., Civilian Public Service (CPS) camp and at Ypsilanti State Hospital in Michigan. In 1945, he was transferred to the CPS unit in La Plata, Puerto Rico. This was the beginning of a rich and treasured experience with the people and the institutions of the Mennonite church there.
In 1946, he married Annabelle Troyer in La Plata. The couple returned to Puerto Rico in 1950 with their family. Over the next two decades Lawrence served as pastor of four congregations (Betania, Coamo Arriba, Usabón and Aibonito), was director of the Ulrich Foundation project and became the administrator of the Mennonite General Hospital in Aibonito.
Lawrence and Annabelle moved to Goshen in 1971, where he administered the High Park Physicians group. Annabelle died in 1974. In October 1975 Lawrence married Frances Bontrager. Having the love, support and caring spirit of his two life's companions was one of his many blessings.
From 1974 to 1986 Lawrence spent happy and challenging years at the Mennonite Board of Missions as director for Latin America. He would later return to fill interim assignments when requested.
Retirement allowed him to pursue other interests. He was an active volunteer in the community and at church. He was born in the "Show-Me-State" and got his wish, having seen much of the world and visited many of nature's wonders. He found joy in producing beautiful forms from wood and stone. He loved to sing and used his beautiful tenor voice at every opportunity. He lived a full and active life, compassionate, kind and generous. He touched many lives and was amazed and humbled at the way God used and blessed his own life.
Lawrence is survived by wife Frances; children Galen (Carmen) of Austin, Texas, Daniel (Thelma) of Hickory, N.C., Joseph of Elkhart and Rachel (Stephen) Good of Maputo, Mozambique; eight grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents, first wife Annabelle, son David, brothers Glen and Earl, and sister Ruby Hathaway.
Visitation will be from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Monday, May 4, in the Koinonia Room at College Mennonite Church, 1900 S. Main St., Goshen. A service will be at 11 a.m. Tuesday, May 5, at the church. Burial will be in Violett Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Mennonite Missions Network.
Rieth-Rohrer-Ehret Funeral Home is handling arrangements.
Online condolences may be sent at www.rrefh.com.
The family wishes to thank Dr. Mertz, Dr. Hostettler, the Goshen Hospital staff, the hospice nurses and the many friends and neighbors who have offered their care and support in the family's time of need.
The Elkhart Truth, Elkhart, IN
May 2, 2015
Submitted by: Thelma Hoover Martin
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Greaser, Lawrence Henry, 93, of Goshen, Elkhart Co., IN died April 29, 2015 at the same place. He was born February 17, 1922 at Garden City, MO to Charles and Pearl (Hershberger) Greaser. On October 25, 1975 he was married to Frances Bontrager, who was born July 29, 1921 and survives.
Surviving are children, Galen (Carmen) Greaser; Daniel (Thelma) Greaser; Joseph Greaser; Rachel (Stephen) Good; eight grandchildren, five great-grandchildren.
A son, David Greaser, two brothers, Glen Greaser and Earl Greaser; and a sister, Ruby Hathaway preceded him in death.
Memorial services were held May 5, 2015 at College Mennonite Church, Goshen, IN with burial in Violett Cemetery , Goshen.
Submitted by: Diana Hershberger, Goshen, IN
Edited by: Thelma Hoover Martin
He is survived by his wife of 21 years, Merlin Louise (Barrett) Groff.
John was a local dairy and crop farmer for 36 years. He was a member of Rawlinsville Mennonite Church. John also taxied Amish for many years.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by two sons: Dale, husband of Kim Groff of Dalmatia; Daniel, husband of Yvonda Groff of Quarryville; 9 stepchildren: Avril Amanda, wife of James McFarlane of Frystown; Winsome Ionie Kelly of Brockton, MA; O'neil N. "Sherri" Harvey of Lancaster; Maxine Elizabeth Barrett of Jamaica; Gene Spence Ricardo Cooper of Jamaica; Dezineil Omar Morrison of Jamaica; Mojibola Adeneke Morrison of Cayman Islands; Joseph Franseco Bent of Wrightsville; Calvin Edward Bent of Lititz; 12 grandchildren; 34 step-grandchildren; 8 great grandchildren; 33 step great grandchildren; and a brother, Elias R. Groff.
He was preceded in death by a son, John F. Groff and siblings: Aaron, Jacob, Elsie, Mary, Martha.
Funeral Services will take place at Rawlinsville Mennonite Church, 838 Susquehannock Drive, Holtwood, PA on Saturday, November 21, 2015 at 11:00 a.m. with Pastors Paul Hess, John Reeser and Wes Metzler officiating. Burial will be in the adjoining cemetery. There will be a viewing at the church on Friday evening from 6-8 p.m. and also one hour prior to the service. Kindly omit flowers. Memorial Contributions may be made to the Rawlinsville Mennonite Church and/or Light of Hope C.S.O., Children's Scholarship Fund, 426 S. Queen St., Lancaster, PA 17603. Arrangements entrusted to Dewald Funeral and Cremation Services, Inc., Quarryville.
Intelligencer Journal - 11/17/2015
Lancaster, PA
Submitted by: Robert Fish
Born in Ephrata Twp., he was the son of the late Noah S. and Ruth (Good) Groff. He was a faithful member of Conestoga Church of the Brethren where he served on the Stewardship Commission and as Deacon, usher, and financial secretary.
He worked in the parts department of C.B. Hoober & Son, Intercourse, retiring in 2010. He had served as tax collector for Leacock Twp. for 24 years.
Lloyd was a charter member of the Intercourse Lions Club, and Lions Club Intl. where he was recognized with their highest award. He truly enjoyed his involvement in community service.
He was also a member of Intercourse Fire Company where he served as president and fire chief, the Eastern Lancaster County Republicans, and the Red Rose Antique Automobile Club. He volunteered at Garden Spot Village and recently received the President's Lifetime Achievement Award.
He is survived by a daughter, Evelyn, wife of Ronald Hartmann, of Paradise, and a son Robert H. Groff of Branchburg, NJ, grandchildren, Heidi Hartmann Strickler of St. Louis, MO, and Michael (Kelly) Hartmann of Gordonville, and great grandchildren, Ethan and Alexis Strickler, Owen and Nora Hartmann, and a step great grandson Steven Miller. Also surviving is a brother Lester Groff of Ephrata.
He was preceded in death by his sisters Martha Wert and Dorothy Rissler, and a half sister Gloria Youse.
Funeral services will be held on Monday, March 16, at 11 a.m. at Conestoga Church of the Brethren, 141 E. Main St., Leola with Pastor Jere Cassel and Chaplain Marian Harnish officiating. Interment will be in Bareville Cemetery. A viewing will be held at Garden Spot Village Garden Towers, 433 S. Kinzer Ave., New Holland on Sunday from 5-7 p.m. and on Monday at the Church from 10-11 a.m.
If desired, memorials may be sent to Garden Spot Village Benevolent Fund, 433 S. Kinzer Ave., New Holland, PA 17557, or to Hospice & Community Care, P.O. Box 4125, Lancaster, PA 17604-4125. Arrangements are with Groff-High Funeral Home, New Holland.
Intelligencer Journal - 3/13/2015
Lancaster, PA
Submitted by: Robert Fish
Groff, Melvin Smith
March 8, 1926 - January 18, 2015
Melvin Smith Groff, 88, formerly of Manor Twp., passed away Sunday morning, January 18, 2015 at The Mennonite Home. Born in Smithville on March 8, 1926, he was the son of the late Arthur and Elizabeth Smith Groff. He was married to Grace Elizabeth Hess Groff, who preceded him in death in January of 2005. He is survived by his wife, Ella Hess Groff, whom he married in November of 2007.
Melvin was a lifelong farmer on Anchor Road and drove milk truck for Turkey Hill Dairy. He was a hard and dedicated worker with a quiet and reserved personality. He had the opportunity to travel and visited the Holy Lands, Florida, and Hawaii.
In addition to his wife Ella of Lancaster, Melvin is survived by his sons, Paul H., husband of Janet of Lancaster and Marlin H., husband of Jean of Mt. Joy; grandsons, Douglas, Daryl and Chad; granddaughter, Pamela Williams; 5 great grandchildren; brother, Clayton S., husband of Elsie of Conestoga and sister, Clara Rohrer of Neffsville.
Family and friends are respectfully invited to attend Melvin's funeral service on Wednesday, January 21, 2015 from the Living Light Mennonite Church, 2625 Safe Harbor Rd., Washington Boro, PA at 11 AM with Pastors Robert and Audrey Kanagy officiating. Interment will be held in Byerland Mennonite Cemetery, Willow Street, PA. Friends will be received at the church on Wednesday from 10-11 AM. Please omit flowers. Memorial remembrances may be made in Melvin's memory to Living Light Mennonite Church. For other information please call 717-872-1779 or visit www.thegundelchapel.com to submit online condolences.
Surviving are her mother; children, Crystal Lynn Grove and Stacey & Anthony Evans; three grandchildren, one great-grandchild; and siblings, Curtis, Jr. & Deborah Layne; Dianna & Montey McPhatter; and Roxice & Ronnie Crickenberger.
Her father; and brother, Steven Layne; preceded her in death.
Memorial services were held December 29, 2015 at Springdale Mennonite Church, Waynesboro, Virginia, with burial in the adjoining cemetery.
Submitted by: Nancy Stoll, Waynesboro, VA
Edited by: Thelma Hoover Martin
Memorial services were held October 30, 2015 at Maple Grove Mennonite Church, Belleville, Mifflin Co., PA with burial at McAlevys Fort, PA.
Submitted by: JoAnn Byler, Belleville, PA
Edited by: Thelma Hoover Martin
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James S. Grove, 75, of Mill Creek, died at 2:48 p.m. Monday Oct. 26, 2015, at his home.
Born Nov. 14, 1939, in Donation, he was a son of the late W. Earl and Dorothy I. (Franks) Grove. His wife, Donna J. Reihar survives at their home.
In addition to his wife he is survived by: children, Pamela D. Kratzer and husband, James, of Portales, N.M., and Kathryn I. Stanbrough and husband, Michael, of Huntingdon; six grandchildren, Carolyn, Mark, Matt, Jimmy, Jenny, and Samantha; eight great-grandchildren; and brother, John E. Grove and wife, Barbara, of Donation.
He was preceded in death by a son, Chris S. Grove, a brother, William E. Grove Jr., and a sister, Violet I. Kershner.
James was a member of Maple Grove Mennonite Church in Belleville.
He was a graduate of Huntingdon High School Class of 1957 and graduate of Winebrenner Seminary, in Findlay, Ohio. He was ordained in 1983 and served as pastor in churches in Michigan, Ohio and Pennsylvania.
James was a master craftsman of various trades. His greatest gift was his loving spirit and care about people coming to know the Lord.
A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, Oct. 30, 2015, at Maple Grove Mennonite Church, Belleville, with the Revs. Alan Kauffman, Herb Zook and Timothy Grove officiating. Burial will take place in Donation Cemetery, in Donation.
Friends may call after 7 p.m. Thursday at Robert E. Peters Funeral Home, Huntingdon, and at the church from 10 a.m. until the time of service on Friday.
The family requests that contributions in James' memory be made to Hospice c/o Home Nursing Agency, 9492 William Penn Highway, Huntingdon, PA 16652.
October 28, 2015
Lewistown Sentinel
Submitted by: Thelma Hoover Martin
Surviving are children, Karen Fowler and Bill Fowler; Linda Grubert-Miller and Steven Miller; Heinz Grubert and Jill Grubert; ten grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren.
Memorial services were held at Stemm-Lawson-Peterson Funeral Home, Elkhart with burial in Rice Cemetery.
Submitted by: Mary Klassen, Elkhart, IN
Edited by: Thelma Hoover Martin