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Lazarus Project

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.

2008  R


  Ramer, Edna Culp; . . Ramer, Elmer ; . . Ramer, Ida S. Martin.; . . Ramer, Milton D.; . .Reil, Martha Roth; . . Reschly, Ralph; . . Reschly, Willard Leroy; . . Ressler, Rhoda Magdalena; . . Rheinheimer, Floyd LaVerne; . . Richard, Clysta Ann; . . Richard, Ruth Ellen Van Dorien; . . Riegsecker, Jesse W.; . . Riegsecker, Marvin D.; . . Risser, Lester G.; . . Risser, Marie Forrey; . . Rodgers, Ruth Virginia Green; . . Rohr, Robert C.; . . Rohrer, Verna H. Fager; . . Rohrer, Willis David, Sr.; . . Rosenberger, Abram Garges; . . Roth, Betty L. Boshart; . . Roth, Beulah Irene Saltzmam; . . Roth, Irene N. Schweitzer; . . Roupp, Stanley Milford; . . Rupp, Luella Stuckey Grieser; . . Rupp, Ruth Ann; . . Rutt, Harry Weaver; . .   

Ramer, Edna Culp

GOSHEN -- Edna Ramer, 94, of Goshen, died at 5:05 a.m. Saturday (Dec. 20, 2008) at Greencroft Healthcare, Goshen.

She was born March 31, 1914, in Harrison Township to David Culp and Lucinda (Bixler) Culp.

She married Paul Ramer on Oct. 5, 1935, in Elkhart. He died Dec. 28, 1963.

She is survived by three sons, Richard (Thelma) Ramer of Goshen; Roger (Joan) Ramer of Goshen, and Rex (Barbara) Ramer of Wakarusa; 10 grandchildren; and 12 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by one daughter, Alice Schrock; three sisters, Grace Stichter, Laura Weldy and Alva Huber; and one brother, Howard Culp.

Mrs. Ramer worked at Jone Furniture for two years making cushions and worked at Holiday Rambler for seven years sewing bedspreads and drapes. She was a member of Salem Mennonite Church.

Friends may call from 3 to 7 p.m. today at Rieth-Rohrer-Ehret Funeral Home, 311 S. Main St., Goshen, and one hour prior to the 10 a.m. service Monday at Salem Mennonite Church, 23984 C.R. 46, New Paris.

Burial will follow at Yellow Creek Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be given to Salem Mennonite Church or Greencroft Foundation.

Condolences may be given online at www.rrefh.com.

Submitted by: Robert Fish
Elkhart Truth - 12/21/2008
Elkhart, IN


Ramer, Elmer

April 15, 1919 - March 2, 2008

Elmer Ramer was born on April 15, 1919 in Duchess, Alberta Canada. He died on March 2, 2008 in Harper, Kansas. His parents were Amon and Eva Ramer. He was a stepbrother to Merlin and Titus Ramer and Esther Unruh, and a brother to Mildred Miller, Helen Mast, and Florence Gerber.

When Elmer was 10 his family left Canada, embarking on a two-year odyssey that took them to Illinois, Texas, and finally to Harper where his maternal grandfather owned property. They settled first in town and later moved to his grandfather's farm east of Harper. Tired of moving, Elmer put his roots deep into the dusty soil of this farm, and lived there for 70 years.

Elmer's arrival in Harper coincided with the darkest days of the Great Depression. The only work his father could find was shuttling mail between the train station and the post office, by wheelbarrow, for $5 a week. Once, as the family teetered on the brink of foreclosure, a letter arrived containing one or two $1,000 bills, cash payment for an oil lease on his grandfather's farm in Texas. These events left a lasting impression on Eltner. He vowed never to be in debt, to always live within his means, and to save as much as he could.

Elmer graduated from Harper High School in 1939. In 1941 he was drafted for WWII. A pacifist, he served in the Civilian Public Service until 1945, when he was honorably discharged. Assigned to a forestry project in Oregon, his skilled hands landed him a job as assistant to the blacksmith, and together; with forge, hammer and anvil; they made the shovels, axes, and other tools needed in the work. Elmer developed a love for working with metal and built himself a well-equipped shop when he returned to the farm. In this shop he build trailers and bale elevators for himself and his neighbors, and repaired many a broken farm implement.

In 1950 Elmer married Rhoda Martin, a schoolteacher from Pennsylvania who had come to Harper to teach at the Pleasant Valley School. They made farming an adventure raising pigs, chickens, cows, ducks, and a lamb. Once, when they were laying linoleum, that lamb got into the house and became stuck in the glue they had spread on the floor. What a mess! Trips to the stockyards in Wichita were followed by picnics at the zoo in Riverside Park and stops at Sears to buy tools and furniture. They had three children: Everett, Lois, and Steve.

As a father Elmer was patient and caring. He welcomed his children tagging along and "helping" him with his work. He was a good spiritual mentor, reading his Bible at the start of each day and making his faith a vital part of his daily life. He closed each day by kneeling in prayer beside his bed.

Elmer was a meticulous farmer. He kept his ditches mowed and his fields clean. In the late spring he would walk his fields at dusk, pulling the rye that was growing among the wheat.

Elmer's passing marks the passing of a way of life. Molded by the forces of economic depression and war, and rooted in the dusty Kansas soil, he was a man who had learned to be content with what he had. He did not work to acquire things, but rather because he had a passion for farming. He was not a procrastinator, but always had time to spend with family or to help a neighbor.

He was patient and took the long view of life, illustrated by his life-long effort to rid his farm of Mexican sandburs: bending over and pulling each one out, one plant at a time. Like Elmer, most of us are not the "movers-and-shakers" in our respective communities. However, what we can learn from his life is that a lifetime of being a "true and faithful servant" of God adds up to a life that is truly great!

Transcribed and edited by: Thelma Hoover Martin
Source: Funeral program
Submitted by: Don Stutzman, Halstead, KS



Ramer, Ida S. Martin

 
Feb. 27, 1917 - May 22, 2008

GOSHEN -- Ida S. (Martin) Ramer, 91, of 26168 C.R. 38, died at 7 a.m. Thursday (May 22, 2008) at home.

She was born Feb. 27, 1917, in Elkhart County to Joseph E. and Mary (Shaum) Martin. On Dec. 7, 1939, she married Ira Ramer. He died July 6, 1991.

Mrs. Ramer is survived by six daughters, Nora (Harvey) Martin, Mary (Lloyd) Martin, Martha (Raymond) Oberholtzer, Esther Ramer and Lucy (Devon) Martin, all of Goshen, and Miriam (Harry) Weaver of Tippecanoe; five sons, Irvin (Susan) Ramer, Benjamin (Verna) Ramer and David (Nancy) Ramer, all of Tippecanoe, Adin (Maryella) Ramer of Goshen and Paul (Catherine) Ramer of Shippensburg, Pa.; 105 grandchildren; 284 great-grandchildren; six sisters, Bertha Martin, Grace Shirk, Edna Brubacher, Miriam (David) Hoover, Rhoda (Leonard) Martin and Suetta (James) Bechtel; and four brothers, Naaman (Ruth) Martin, Allen (Ruth) Martin, Rufus (Thelma) Martin and Benjamin (Edith) Martin. All of the brothers and sisters are area residents.

She was preceded in death by one granddaughter, Naomi Shirk, on March 17, 2008; four infant grandchildren; four sisters and two brothers.

Mrs. Ramer was a homemaker and member of the Old Order Mennonite Church.

Friends may call from 2 to 8 p.m. Saturday and Sunday at the family home, 26168 C.R. 38. The funeral service will be at 9:30 a.m. Monday at Yellow Creek Old Order Mennonite Church. The home ministers will officiate. Burial will be in Yellow Creek Frame Cemetery.

Rieth-Rohrer-Ehret-Lienhart Funeral Home, 117 W. Waterford, Wakarusa, is assisting with arrangements. Visit www.rrefh.com to send online condolences.

Published: 5/23/2008 12:00:00 AM 
The Truth, Elkhart, IN
Submitted by: Thelma Hoover Martin



Ramer, Milton D.
, 80, of Lititz, PA formerly of Collegeville, PA died May 6, 2008 at Landis Homes, Lititz, PA. He was born in Dutchess, Alberta, Canada, to Jacob David and Irene Susan (Hartman) Ramer. He was married to Grace E. (Brunk) Ramer, she died June 29, 2001. He was a member of Providence Mennonite Church, Collegeville, PA.

Surviving are five children, Beverly, married to Marvin Zimmerman of Reading, PA; Ruth, married to Glen Toribio of Goodville, PA; David, married to Ronda (Smith) Ramer of Sanford, FL, Faye, married to James Ting of Lake Mary, FL, and Esther, married to Rich Zoss of Low Point, IL; 13 grandchildren; six great grandchildren; a brother, Ralph, married to Laura (King) Ramer of Myerstown, PA; and three sisters, Charlotte Martin of Goshen, IN, Catherine Endersby, married to Dale Bridenbaugh of Elida, OH, and Margaret Schrock of Tavares, FL.

Funeral services was May 13, 2008 at the Providence Mennonite Church Interment was in the Providence Mennonite cemetery, Collegeville, PA. Source:
Obituary files of Groff-High-Eckroth Funeral Home, Terre Hill, PA
Submitted by: Leon Hertzler, Newport, NH



Reil, Martha Roth
, 88, of Colorado Springs, CO died January 6, 2008 at Colorado Springs, El Paso Co., CO from Pulminary Fibrosis.  She was born September 1, 1919 at Chappell, NE to Nick and Ada (Stutzman) Roth and married to Delmer Reil, who is deceased.

Surviving are children, Eugene & Marilyn Reil, Ruth & Wayne Ballentine, Keith & Joan Reil, Wanda Nisbeth, 9 grandchildren, and 7 great-grandchildren.

Memorial services were held January 11, 2008 at Beth-El Mennonite Church, Colorado Springs, El Paso County Colorado with burial in Memorial Garden Cemetery, Colorado Springs.

She was a member of Mennonite Church USA.
Submitted by: Jeanette Martin, Colorado Springs, CO
Edited by: Thelma Hoover Martin



Reschly, Ralph
, 91, of Mt. Union, IA, died Sunday, August 17, 2008, at his home.

Visitation will begin after 12:00 noon on Tuesday, August 19, 2008, at the Olson - Powell Memorial Chapel, where the family will receive friends from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. Tuesday evening. Funeral services will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Wednesday at the Olson-Powell Memorial Chapel with the Revs. John Zimmerman and Don Patterson officiating. Burial will be in the Sheridan Cemetery. Memorials have been established to Amenity Hospice of Cedar Rapids and the Great River Home Health Care of Burlington. On line condolences may be sent to www.olsonpowell.com

The son of William and Katie Swartzendruber Reschly, Ralph Dale, was born August 19, 1916, in Wayland, IA. On August 22, 1937, he married Irene V. Imhof in Wayland, IA. She survives.

For the past 47 years, Ralph has lived in the Winfield-Mt. Union community. He was a self-employed farmer and carpenter for 68 years. He was a member of Sugar Creek Mennonite Church in Wayland, IA. He later became a member of the Pleasant View Mennonite Church in Mt. Pleasant.

With a great love for his family and friends, Ralph enjoyed spending time and visiting with people. He liked making homemade ice cream, delivering cream and eggs, and tinkering in his workshop.

Along with his wife, Irene, of 70 years, Ralph is survived by two daughters, Joanne (Edward) Gibson of Bay St. Louis, MS and Rosi (Louis) Krogmeier of Mt. Pleasant, IA; one son, Denny (Jean) Reschly of Mt. Pleasant, IA; and two sisters, Edna Roth of Wayland, IA and Irene Pankoke of Winfield, IA. He is also survived by 13 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.

Mr. Reschly was preceded in death by his parents; one son, Gary Reschly; one daughter, Louise Nisly- Peiffer; one sister, Ruth Kaufman; and two brothers, Harold and Floyd Reschly.

Source: Olson Powell Memorial Chapel - Mt. Pleasant, Iowa
Submitted by: Ann Miller White, Lincoln, NE



Reschly, Willard Leroy
, 84, of Washington, Iowa died there October 31, 2008.  He was born September 25, 1924 in the Wayland area, Henry Co., IA.  He was married to Leona Dusenberry, who survives.

Surviving are children, Linda and husband William Simmons; Lonnie and wife Terri Reschly; Terry Reschly, 7 grandchildren, 8 great-grandchildren, and his siblings: Marion and wife Opal Reschly; Kathryn Lehman; Elsie and husband Stanley Burkholder; Orlin Reschly; Raymond and wife Wava Reschly; Benjamin and
wife Marge Reschly; Vernon and wife Laura Reschly.

Two Sons - Ronnie and Larry Reschly, a grandson - Shannon Reschly and a sister -  Vera Buchanan preceded him in death.

Memorial services were held November 4, 2008 at Beatty Funeral Home, Washington, Iowa.

Submitted by: Karen Meyer, Wayland, Iowa
Edited by: Thelma Hoover Martin



Ressler, Rhoda Magdalena


RHODA MAGDALENA RESSLER, 98, 100 High Point Rd., Medina, Ohio died Tuesday, August 5 [2008]. Services will be Saturday, August 23 at 10:00 a.m. at Oak Grove Mennonite Church, Smithville. The reverends Joel Short, David Miller and Charles Shenk will officiate. Burial will be in the Scottdale (Pennsylvania) Cemetery at a later date.

Rhoda was born June 7, 1910, near Smithville, Ohio to Jacob A. and Lina Zook Ressler. In 1911 the family moved to Scottdale, Pennsylvania, which became the permanent home for the Ressler family.

Rhoda earned a BS degree in education from Goshen College (Indiana) and a MS degree in deaf education from the University of Pittsburgh. She taught in Pittsburgh and the Scottdale community for a number of years. Active in her church and the Mennonite Publishing House community (now Mennonite Publishing Network), Rhoda directed a women's choir, taught Sunday school and Bible school and cared for her aging parents until their deaths.

She and her sister Ruth served with Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) from 1949-52 in Osaka, Japan, teaching English to Japanese in postwar rehabilitation. She then studied at the Kobe Language School for two years in preparation for work with Mennonite Board of Missions (predecessor to Mennonite Mission Network) in Hokkaido, Japan.  

In Kamshihoro, Hokkaido (northern Japanese Island) Rhoda and her sister began the first kindergarten of the Mennonite mission and the Kamshihoro Mennonite Church, working in rural evangelism as fraternal workers for ten years. From 1966 to 1974 she returned to Osako with Mennonite Board of Missions, teaching English in the Japanese university and schools. Along with her language instruction, she taught Bible classes to interested students.

In 1974 Rhoda returned to the U.S., living on her mother's home farm near Sterling, Ohio for four years. After a 10-year stay in Waverly, Ohio, she moved to OrrVilla Retirement Community in 1988, living there until three-months prior to her death.

As the daughter of the first Mennonite missionaries to India, she learned early the joy and culture of service. She valued serving and committed her life fully to doing for others until her health prohibited it. Rhoda was skilled in knitting and crocheting, making hundreds of dolls, with her sister, for benefit auctions throughout Ohio. She loved gardening, flowers, music, reading, sewing, flower arranging, piecing and binding comforters and was a creative and resourceful cook. She was faithful in her contacts with Japanese friends, serving as a gracious hostess and tour guide when they visited her in America. She remained active in Oak Grove's Mennonite Women organization late into her life.

She was preceded in death by an infant brother, Luke, her sister, Ruth, half-sister Emma (Mrs. George) Townsend and nephews Norman and Paul Townsend. Surviving are several cousins, nephews J. W. Townsend, George Townsend, niece Rebecca Tice and countless friends.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions will be received by Oak Grove Mennonite Church, 7843 Smucker Rd. Smithville, Ohio 44677 and will be directed to Oak Grove Mennonite Women and Hospice of Wayne and Medina Counties. Gift designations will be honored.

Photo
Submitted by: Sherry Miller
Orrville, OH
More at http://www.mennonitemission.net/Resources/News/story.asp?ID=1311&f


Rheinheimer, Floyd LaVerne
, 86, of Goshen, IN died July 7, 2008 at Goshen, IN.  He was born October 24, 1921 at Shipshewana, IN to Edward and Laura (Reinhardt)  Rheinheimer.  On November 22, 1942 at Shipshewana, IN he was married to Irene Miller, who was born April 20, 1924 and survives.

Surviving are children, Faye Gonzalez, Anita (Paul) Yoder, Lowell (June) Rheinheimer, Roger (Ginny) Rheinheimer, Douglas (Val) Rheinheimer, 15 grandchildren, 8 great-grandchildren, two sisters, Lila (Lester) Mishler and Florence (David) Harnish, and two brothers, Howard Rheinheimer and Ralph (Carol) Rheinheimer.

Two sisters, Rachel Miller and Dora Hostetler, and one brother, Rollin Rheinheimer preceded him in death.

Floyd was a graduate of Goshen College and Indiana University Medical School and was a family physician in Milford, Ind., for 35 years.  He served in CPS 1943-1945 at Dennison, Iowa; and Ypsilanti, Mich.  Floyd was a member of the American Academy of Family Practice and Christian Medical and Dental Society.  He was also a private pilot and a ham radio operator.

Memorial services were held July 10, 2008 at College Mennonite Church, Goshen, IN with burial in Milford Cemetery, Milford, IN.

Submitted by: Ethel Hoffman, Goshen, IN
Edited by: Thelma Hoover Martin



Richard, Clysta Ann
, 77, of Des Moines, Iowa died March 23, 2008 at Des Moines, Polk County, Iowa.  She was born July 31, 1930 at Wayland, Iowa to Noah and Anna (Graber) Richard.

Surviving are two sisters, Beverly Robinson and Mae Alliman.

A sister, Ruby Telford and a brother, John Richard preceded her in death.

Memorial services were held March 29, 2008 at Des Moines Mennonite Church, Des Moines, Polk Co., Iowa.

-------------

Dr. Clysta Ann Richard, M.D., 77, died at her home on March 23, 2008.  A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on March 29, 2008 at the Des Moines Mennonite Church.

Clysta was born on July 31, 1930 in Wayland, Iowa to Anna Graber Richard and Noah Richard. She was a lifetime member of the Mennonite Church and a charter member of the Des Moines Mennonite Church where she was actively involved and served in many leadership positions.

Clysta attended Goshen College and earned her B.A. and M.D. degrees from the University of Iowa.  Her Internship and Residency in Obstetrics. and Gynecology were completed at the University of Iowa Hospitals.

Clysta was the first woman in Iowa to be Board Certified in Obstetrics and Gynecology.  She was in private practice with Dr. Beverly Robinson for 31 years before retiring in 1991. Clysta's life was devoted to caring for her mother and brother, and thousands of grateful patients.  She was a faithful and joyful
Christian, and loved Christ, her congregation, and the great hymns of the Church. Clysta was a selfless and generous individual.  Her life and the fruits of her labor were devoted to others.

Clysta held positions on the teaching staff at Broadlawns Polk County Hospital and as Intern Coordinator at the Iowa Lutheran Hospital.  She also was a member of the Advisory Board of Planned Parenthood of Iowa, a member of the Advisory Board of the Center for Mentally Retarded Children, President of the Iowa Chapter of the American Medical Women's Association, Coordinator of Obstetrics-Gynecology at Broadlawns Medical Center, and an Assistant Professor on the University of Iowa faculty. Clysta was a member of the Christian Medical and Dental Society, Mennonite Medical Association, American Medical Association, Iowa Medical Society, and the Polk County Medical Society.  She was an
Emeritus Member of the Iowa Methodist Medical Center Staff and an Emeritus fellow of the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology. She was also a member of the Des Moines chapter of Altrusa International.

Clysta is survived by her sisters Beverly Robinson of Des Moines and Mae (Gilbert) Alliman of Goshen, Indiana, and several nieces and nephews.
Preceding her in death were her parents, a sister, Ruby Telford and a brother, John Richard.  Clysta donated her body to the University of Iowa for medical research.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Des Moines
Mennonite Church, the Wesley Acres Good Samaritan Fund, or the
Associated Mennonite Biblical Seminary.

Submitted by: Randy J. Roth, Des Moines, IA
Edited by: Thelma Hoover Martin


Richard, Ruth Ellen Van Dorien
, 82, of Loveland, CO died April 12, 2008 at Loveland, CO from natural causes.  She was born June 18, 1925 at Norwich, KS to Harry W. and Ada May Van Dorien.  On July 10, 1944 she was married to Willard  Richard.

Surviving are children, Bonnie (John) McDermid, Connie (Dale) Friesen, John (Marylyn) Richard, Debbie (Roger) Tobias, and Ron (Nelda) Richard, 12 grandchildren, and 14 great-grandchildren.

 Five brothers and two sisters preceded him/her in death.

Memorial services were held April 18, 2008 with Pastor Jerry Kaiser, officiating
at First Mennonite Church, Aberdeen, Idaho with burial in Homestead Cemetery, Aberdeen, ID.

She was a member of Mennonite Church USA.
Submitted by: Anne Hege, Aberdeen, ID
Edited by: Thelma Hoover Martin



Riegsecker, Jesse W.
, 90, of Middlebury, IN died July 14, 2008 at Greencroft Health Care Center, Goshen, Elkhart County, Indiana from cancer.  He was born June 3, 1918 John and Neomah (Miller) Riegsecker.  On February 12, 1943 at Shipshewana, LaGrange County, IN he was married to Agnes Miller, who survives.

Surviving are children, Rebecca (Mike) Lee, Middlebury, IN; John (Deborah) Riegsecker, Gig Harbor, WA; Joeph (Debi) Riegsecker, Middlebury, IN; and Jerry (Kay) Riegsecker, Wakarusa, IN, five grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren and his siblings, Lillian (Fred) Slabach, Middlebury, IN,; Doris (Roy) Keim, Goshen. IN; Duane (Ellen) Riegsecker, Goshen, IN; Richard Riegsecker, Goshen, IN; and Robert Sandy) Riegsecker, Ligonier, IN.

A son, James Riegsecker and two sisters, Mary (Harry) Rice and Louise (Art) Hoogenboom preceded him in death.

Jesse was a farmer and a member of Clinton Frame Mennonite Church.  He
served in Civilian Public Service during World War II.

Memorial services were held July 18, 2008 at Clinton Frame Mennonite Church, Goshen, Elkhart County, Indiana with burial in Grace Lawn Cemetery, Middlebury, Elkhart County, Indiana.

Submitted by: Karen Troyer, Goshen, IN
Receptionist, Clinton Frame Mennonite Church
Edited by: Thelma Hoover Martin



Riegsecker, Marvin D.
, 71, of Goshen, IN died September 30, 2008 at Indianapolis, IN.  He was born July 5, 1937 at Elkhart County, IN to Levi and Mayme (Kauffman) Reigsecker.  On August 3, 1958 in Goshen, IN he was married to Norma Shrock, who was born May 26, 1939 and survives.

Surviving are children, Steven (Andrea) Riegsecker, Michael (Ann) Riegsecker, 2 grandchildren, and 3 brothers, Keith L. Riegsecker, Verl L.(Pat) Riegsecker, and Dennis R.(Jean) Riegsecker, and one sister, Joyce Craven.

A brother, Orval Lee Riegsecker preceded him in death.

Marvin graduated from the University of Colorado with a pharmacy degree in 1967.  He worked at a number of pharmacies in the Goshen, Ind., area.  Marvin was the Elkhart County coroner 1976-1984, a county commissioner 1984-19867 and served in the Indiana Senate 1987-2008.  He was named Sagamore of the Wabash in 2008.

Memorial services were held October 4, 2008 at College Mennonite Church, Goshen, IN with burial in Violett Cemetery, Goshen, IN.

Submitted by: Ethel Hoffman, Goshen IN
Edited by: Thelma Hoover Martin



Risser, Lester G.
, 90, of Mercersburg, PA died November 30, 2008 in Menno Haven Nursing Center, Chambersburg, PA. He was born October 11, 1918 in Brunnerville, PA to David and Mabel Greenly Risser. He was married to Florence Horning Risser, for 68 years.

He attended Mercersburg Mennonite Church, Merersburg, PA where he was a church chorister.

Surviving are his wife and daughters, Joan Bachmeyer of Winnipeg, Canada, Helen Leatherman of Tamaqua, PA, and Alice Kauffman of Marietta, PA. Four sons, Stanley H. Risser of Lebanon, PA, Nelson H. Risser of Lancaster, PA, Lester H. Risser of St. Thomas, PA, and Jason H. Risser of Nampa Idaho. Eighteen grandchildren and fourteen great grandchildren. Three half sisters, June Smith and Mary Jane Scott both of Lancaster, PA and Jean Ditzler of Coudersport, PA.

In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by brothers, Charles and David Risser and two half sisters, Pauline Kleinfelter and Betty Helm.

Funeral service was December 2, 2008 in Mercersburg Mennonite Church with Rev. Allen R. Eshelman and Rev. Lloyd W. Gingrich officiating. Burial was in the Mercersburg Mennonite Cemetery, Merersburg, PA.
Source: Lancaster OnLine December 01, 2008
Submitted by: Leon Hertzler, Newport, NH



Risser, Marie Forrey
, 92, of Holtwood, PA died June 13, 2008, at the Mennonite Home, Lancaster, PA. She was born August 13, 1915, in Landisville, PA to Oliver and Alma (Steif) Forrey. She was married to Clarence W. Risser, who died in 1991.

She was a member of Willow Street Mennonite Church, Willow Street, PA.

Survived by three daughters: Janet, wife of William Eby, of Mount Joy, PA; Lois, of Paradise, PA; Helen R., wife of George Tudor, of Millersville, PA; one son: Mark C., husband of Ann Thomas Risser, of Holtwood, PA; six grandchildren; fifteen great grandchildren, including two sets of twins, and one set of triplets; one brother: Jay N. Forrey, of Lancaster, PA; and a sister, Violet Erb, of Lititz, PA.

Funeral service was June 18, 2008, at Willow Street Mennonite Church with Pastors Robert A. Breneman, and Gerald B. Garber officiating. Interment was in the  follow the Willow Street Mennonite Cemetery, Willow Street, PA
Source: Obituary files of Grundel Funeral Home, Conestoga/Lancaster, PA
Submitted by: Leon Hertzler, Newport, NH
 

Rodgers, Ruth Virginia Green
, 86, of Iowa City, Iowa died there on September 7, 2008 following a short illness.  She was born June 21, 1922 at Bevier, MO to Joseph Warren and Myrtle (Mullinex) Green.  On July 28, 1940 at Palmyra, MO she was married to Samuel C. Rodgers, who died in 1993.

Surviving are two daughters, Elnora (Stan) Smith and Esther Bickford, 4 grandchildren, and 5 great-grandchildren.

A son-in-law, Galen Bickford, a brother, William Green, and a sister, Helen Deardeuff preceded her in death.

Memorial services were held September 10, 2008 at First Mennonite Church, Iowa City, Iowa with burial in Lone Tree Cemetery, Lone Tree, Iowa.

Submitted by: Karen Gingerich, Iowa City, Iowa
Edited by: Thelma Hoover Martin


Rohr, Robert C.
, 74, of Camp Hill, Cumberland Co., PA died there on October 20, 2008 during an operation for a knee replacement. 

He was born July 25, 1934 at Broadax, Montgomery Co., PA to Samuel M. and Emma (Cassel) Rohr.  Samuel was born February 14, 1894 and died July 9, 1981.  Emma was born June 25, 1900 and died January 20, 1983.

On September 8, 1956 at Souderton, Montgomery Co., PA he was married to M. Lois Beyer, who was born March 1, 1936 and survives.

Surviving are children, Sandra Shamansky of Camp Hill, Robert L. and Katrin Rohr of Switzerland, and Jeffrey L. and Kathleen Rohr of CT, 6 grandchildren, and siblings, Betty and Pauly Reily, Emma Bechtel, Paul and Martha Rohr, John and Grace Rohr, Marjorie and Raymond Swartley.

A grandson, Christopher D. Shamansky preceded him in death.

Memorial services were held October 28, 2008 at Slate Hill Mennonite Chruch, Camp Hill, PA with burial in the adjoining cemetery.
Submitted by: M. Lois Rohr, Camp Hill, PA
Edited by: Thelma Hoover Martin



Rohrer, Verna H. Fager
, 92, of Mennonite Home Lancaster, PA, formerly of Landisville, PA died July 11, 2008 at the Lancaster General Hospital. She was born in East Lampeter Twp, Lancaster, PA to Christian and Laura Heller Fager.

She was married to David B. Rohrer he died in 2003. She was a member of the Bylerland Mennonite Church, Willow Street, PA.

Survived by her sons, D. Christian husband of Toby Rohrer, Lancaster, PA; Charles F. husband of Mary Rohrer, Willow Street, PA and Richard F. husband of Teresa Rohrer of Marietta, PA. 6 grandchildren; 12 great grandchildren. Sisters Mildred Reed, Lancaster, PA and Anna Blosser of Wayland Iowa also survive.

Her siblings Benjamin and Elizabeth Fager preceded her in death.

Funeral service was July 17, 2008 at Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc. Landisville PA with Chaplain Dorcas J. Martzall officiating. Interment was in Mellinger Mennonite Cemetery, Lancaster, PA.
Source: Lancaster OnLine July 13, 2008
Submitted by: Leon Hertzler, Newport, NH



Rohrer, Willis David, Sr.


Willis David Rohrer Sr., 81, a resident of 1038 Hinton Road, Dayton, died Oct. 10, 2008, at Rockingham Memorial Hospital.

Mr. Rohrer was born on Nov. 23, 1926, in Rockingham County, and was the son of the late Henry Warren and Bertie Frances Simmers Rohrer.
He spent his life in the Dayton area and was a farmer. He was a member of the Pleasant View Old Order Mennonite Church.

On Aug. 2, 1949, he married the former Esther M. Rhodes, who survives.

Also surviving are three sons, Byard Rohrer and wife, Rebecca, of Harrisonburg, Henry Rohrer and wife, Bonnie, of Dayton, and Willis Rohrer Jr., and wife, Karen, of Dayton; four daughters, Erma Zimmerman and husband, Allen, of Dayton, Nancy Martin and husband, Aaron, of Fortuna, Mo., Sarah Horst and husband, Paul, of Dayton, Evelyn Knicely and husband, Dan, of Harrisonburg; a twin brother, Warren Israel Rohrer of Dayton; 39 grandchildren and 60 great-grandchildren. Mr. Rohrer was preceded in death by two sisters, one brother, three grandsons and one great-granddaughter.

Bishop Marion Wenger and Ministers of the Church will conduct a funeral service Monday, Oct. 13, 2008, at 10:30 a.m. at the Pleasant View Old Order Mennonite Church. Burial will follow at the church cemetery.

The body will be taken to the Rohrer home, where friends may call anytime Saturday and until 7:30 p.m. on Sunday.

McMullen Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

From: Daily News Record - 10/11/2008 - Harrisonburg, VA
Submitted by: Robert Fish



Rosenberger, Abram Garges
, 89, of Souderton, PA died May 9, 2008 at Souderton, PA.  He was born May 29, 1918 at Hilltown Twp., PA to Henry and Lydya (Garges) Rosenberger.  On February 17, 1945 he was married to Kathryn High, who was born October 17, 1922 and survives.

Surviving are a daughter, Kathy Moyer and husband, Steven, three grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, a sister, Anna Detweiler and husband, Alvin; and a brother, Earl Rosenberger and wife, Doris.

A son, Donald Rosenberger and a sister, Ethel Wenger preceded him in death.

Memorial services were held May 15, 2008 at Souderton Mennonite Homes, Souderton, PA with burial in Blooming Glen Mennonite Church Cemetery, Blooming Glen, PA.

He was a member of Mennonite Church USA.
Submitted by: Peggy Buzzard, BGMB Admin. Asst.
Blooming Glen Mennonite Church, Blooming Glen, PA
Edited by: Thelma Hoover Martin



Roth, Betty L. Boshart
, 79, of Washington, Iowa died there on August 9, 2008.  She was born November 28, 1929 at Wayland, Iowa to Claire D. and Lydia (Wyse) Boshart.  On December 19, 1948 at Wayland, Iowa she was married to Owen Roth.

Surviving are children, Janice Roth, Judy Yoder - husband Carroll, Jolene Bearden - husband Osie, 5 grandchildren, and a brother, Robert Boshart - wife Elaine.

A brother, Roy Boshart preceded her in death.

Memorial services were held August 13, 2008 at Bethel Mennonite Church, Wayland, Iowa with burial in the adjoining cemetery.

Submitted by: Brenda Slabaugh, Wayland, IA
Edited by: Thelma Hoover Martin


Roth, Beulah Irene Saltzmam
was born on December 7, 1918, on a farm near Shickley, Nebraska in Fillmore County, the third of six children born to Peter and Elizabeth (Reeb) Saltzman and died Friday, January 4, 2008, at Crestview Care Center in Milford at the age of 89 years and 28 days. As a young girl she attended country school District #69 and Shickley High School. Beulah was baptized at Salem Mennonite Church where she was later united in marriage to Stanley Roth on September 24, 1944. To this union five children, Lauralee, Eileen, Duane, Glenda and Betty were born.

Throughout Beulah's life she was a busy homemaker and over the years worked for and assisted many families, developing many long-time friendships. Moving to the Milford area, Beulah became a member of East Fairview Mennonite Church where she was an active participant, teaching Sunday school, Bible school, and as a member of WMSC. She also enjoyed spending many hours with friends at the Milford Senior Center where she enjoyed quilting and other activities. Beulah loved to do "crafts" and made many items for family members and friends. She made a special effort to bake chocolate chip cookies for her grandchildren so she could always send a "bag" home with them. In her retirement years she enjoyed many bus tours and her special trip to Belgium with Stanley.

She is survived by her daughters and sons-in-law, Lauralee and Nyle Kauffman, Iowa City, IA, Glenda and Bob Maury, Milford, Betty and Roger Weaver, Elkhart, IN, son and daughter-in-law, Duane and Reta Roth, Milford, 10 grandchildren and spouses, JoAnn and Jason Roth, Mike and Rocki Roth and Mark Roth, all of Milford, Jaris and Sherry Roth, Ft. Worth, TX, Jacinda and Doug Bishop, Bernalillo, NM, Angela and Tyson Teeter, Hesston, KS, Cynthia and Thurman Mullet, Berlin, OH, Douglas and Elizabeth Maury, Hesston, KS, Daniel and Ryan Weaver, Elkhart, IN, 14 great-grandchildren, Justina, Jayden, Rollin, and Mylee Roth, Zachary, Alexandria, and Gabriel Roth, Daryn and Owen Bishop, Sarah and Rachel Teeter, Brynn and Ashley Mullet, Mikayla Maury, sister, Verna Saltzman, Shickley, brother and sister-in-law, LeVoy and Norma Saltzman, Shickley, many nieces, nephews and a host of other relatives and friends.

Beulah was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Stanley in 1986, infant daughter, Eileen, brothers, Orville and Albert Saltzman, sister, Esther Yoder, and a son-in-law, Leslie Roth.

A Funeral Service was held on Monday, January 7, 2008 at East Fairview Mennonite Church, rural Milford, with Revs. Bill Saltzman and Anthony Troyer officiating. Interment in the East Fairview Church Cemetery. Memorials have been established and may be sent in care of the family or to donor's choice.

Find A Grave # 24981988
Submitted by: Thelma Hoover Martin



Roth, Irene N. Schweitzer
, 96, of Milford, Neb. died February 14, 2008 at Seward, NE.  She was born July 3, 1911 at Milford, Seward Co., NE to John and Mattie (Erb) Schweitzer.  On December 21, 1933 at Milford, NE she was married to Roy Roth, who died in 1998.

Surviving are children, LeRoy & Betty Roth; James & Twila Roth; Janice & Vesper Oswald; Terry & Bobbi Roth, Verlyn & Gerry Dunlap, 11 grandchildren, and 20 great-grandchildren.

A son, Richard Roth preceded her in death.

Memorial services were held February 18, 2008 at Bellwood Mennonite Church,  Milford, NE.

She was a member of Mennonite Church USA.
Submitted by: Pam Erb, Milford, NE
Edited by: Thelma Hoover Martin



Roupp, Stanley Milford
, 82, of Hesston, KS died January 7, 2008 at Goshen, Elkhart County, Indiana.  He was born July 3, 1925 at Newton, Harvey County, Kansas to John and Lillie (Balmer) Roupp.  On August 8, 1948 he was married to Roselena Ruth Willems.

Surviving are children, Valerie Helser, Sherry & Mark Jordan, Janelle & Steve Diller, Patrice Dunbar, and 7 grandchildren.

Memorial services were held January 15, 2008 at Whitestone Mennonite Church, Hesston, Harvey County, Kansas with burial in Eastlawn Cemetery, Harvey County, Kansas.

Submitted by: Jean Grieser, Hesston, KS
Edited by: Thelma Hoover Martin



Rupp, Luella Stuckey Grieser
, 90, of Goshen, IN died January 8, 2008 at Goshen, Elkhart Co., IN. 

She was born July 2, 1917 at Leo, Allen Co., IN to Henry and Emma (Yoder) Stuckey.  Henry was born January 10, 1875 and died March 18, 1941.  Emma was born November 26, 1882 and died July 5, 1958.

On May 19, 1939 at Leo, Allen, Co., IN she was married to Cletus C. Grieser, who was born April 6, 1914 and died November 1, 1969. Her second husband, Mahlon Rupp died February 3, 2003.

Surviving are children, Rosalyn Ledyard (Roger), Merlin (Mary), Dwight (Carol), Lynette Slaubaugh, Curtis (Connie), Bernard (Sherri), Don (Sena Fitzpatrick),
12 grandchildren, and 25 great-grandchildren.

A son, Darwin and siblings, Lavern Stuckey, Hermia Nofziger, Violet Rupp, Genevieve Stuckey, and Jess Stuckey preceded her in death.

Memorial services were held January 12, 2008 at Clinton Mennonite Church,  Wauseon, Fulton Co., OH in Leo Cemetery, Leo, Allen Co., IN.

She was a member of Mennonite Church USA.
Submitted by: Rosalyn Ledyard, Lancaster PA
Edited by: Thelma Hoover Martin



Rupp, Ruth Ann
, 65, of Archbold, Ohio died March 3, 2008 at Fairlawn Haven Nursing Home, Archbold, Ohio.  She was born October 7, 1942 at Archbold, Ohio  to Eldon and Lydia (Stuckey) Rupp.

Surviving are three sisters; Doris Rupp, Velma Horst, and Arlene (Dale L.) Short, all of Archbold, OH; one brother, Donald (Beth) Rupp of Wauseon,OH; and two sisters-in-law, Annabelle Rupp and Clara Rupp, both of Wauseon.

Twin brothers: Leon and Leroy Rupp preceded her in death.

Memorial services were held March 6, 2008 at Central Mennonite Church, Archbold, Ohio.

She was a member of Mennonite Church USA.
Submitted by: Dana Short, Archbold, Ohio
Edited by: Thelma Hoover Martin



Rutt, Harry Weaver


Harry Weaver Rutt, 60, of Ephrata, died on December 21st at the Hershey Medical Center after a 5-month illness.

Harry was born on June 24, 1948 in Martindale, PA to the late Harry N. Rutt and Anna Mae Weaver Rutt.

Harry was an ambitious visionary, who often took the road less traveled. Constants were his deep faith and service to God, his commitment to his family and his never-ending desire to hit the open road.

After marrying, Harry and Julia went to Colorado Springs, Colorado for 2 years of 1-W service. After returning to PA, he worked at Dutchman's Feed Mill,
owned by his father, before starting the New Life Tape Ministry and Heritage Gospel Productions. He was on the board and actively involved in the formation of Jesus Ministries at Agape Camp Farm in Shirleysburg, PA, was influential in the Lancaster Mennonite Renewal and served on the board at New Life for Girls in Dover, PA.

He received his ordination at Hammercreek Mennonite Church for church planting work in Manchester, PA, where he pastored Christian Community Fellowship.
After completing his GED at the age of 38, he went on to attend Eastern Mennonite Seminary in Harrisonburg, VA and received his Master of Arts degree in Church Leadership, while driving truck part-time.

Returning to Lancaster County, he became Assistant Pastor at Carpenter Community Church in Talmage. At this time, he set up Living magazine in Lancaster County.
After resigning from Carpenter's, he fulfilled several of his dreams: driving big rigs to California with E&F Trucking (where he was currently employed) and publishing a book titled Back Porch Memories, excerpts from his grandmother's diaries.

He was currently researching his family genealogy for another book, a highlight of which was traveling to his ancestors' European origins several times.

He is survived by his wife, Julia; 5 children: Michelle Rutt, wife of Pedro Gonzalez of Houston, TX; Keith Rutt, husband of Erin Osinkosky of Ephrata, PA;
Christine Rutt, wife of Hans-Dieter Gerber of Switzerland; Stacy Hoover, wife of Troy Hoover of Akron, PA; Anthony Rutt, husband of Lisa Velez of Germany; 12 grandchildren: Luke and Sarah Rutt; Lea and Skye Gerber; Justin, Megan and Seth Hoover; Nicolas, Rui, Jasmin, Audry and Rami Gonzalez-Rutt; stepmother, Ella Esbenshade Rutt of Intercourse, PA; 3 sisters: Verna, wife of Martin Z. Wenger of Lititz, PA; Ida, wife of Edwin K. Wise of Ephrata, PA; and Elsie, wife of Merle Wise of Stevens, PA. He was preceded in death by a sister, Norma.

We will remember Harry for his love of red cars, big rigs and anything computerized or genealogized.

His life will be celebrated and his death mourned on Saturday, December 27, 2008 at The Worship Center, 2384 New Holland Pike, Lancaster, PA with the Rev.
Sam Smucker officiating.

Viewing at 10:00 a.m., Service at 11:00 a.m. Interment at Hammercreek
Mennonite Cemetery.

There will also be viewings on Friday, December 26th, at Gravenor Home For Funerals, 100 W. Main St., Ephrata, PA from 2-3 p.m. and 5-8 p.m. Arrangements by Gravenor Home For Funerals, Ephrata.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Harry Rutt Memorial Fund at Susquehanna Bank.

May Harry enjoy the road he now travels.
Submitted by: Robert Fish
Published in: Intelligencer Journal
 12/24/2008 -
Lancaster, PA
-------------

Rutt, Harry Weaver
, 60, of Ephrata, PA died on December 21, 2008 at the Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, PA. He was born on June 24, 1948 in Martindale, PA to Harry N. Rutt and Anna Mae Weaver Rutt.

After marrying, Harry and Julia went to Colorado Springs, Colorado for 2 years of 1-W service. Returning to PA, He received his ordination at Hammercreek Mennonite Church for church planting work in Manchester, PA, where he pastored Christian Community Fellowship. At the age of 38, he went on to attend Eastern Mennonite Seminary in Harrisonburg, VA and received his Master of Arts degree in Church Leadership. Returning to Lancaster County, he became Assistant Pastor at Carpenter Community Church in Talmage, PA.

He is survived by his wife, Julia; 5 children: Michelle Rutt, wife of Pedro Gonzalez of Houston, TX; Keith Rutt, husband of Erin Osinkosky of Ephrata, PA; Christine Rutt, wife of Hans-Dieter Gerber of Switzerland; Stacy Hoover, wife of Troy Hoover of Akron, PA; Anthony Rutt, husband of Lisa Velez of Germany; 12 grandchildren: Luke and Sarah Rutt; Lea and Skye Gerber; Justin, Megan and Seth Hoover; Nicolas, Rui, Jasmin, Audry and Rami Gonzalez-Rutt; stepmother, Ella Esbenshade Rutt of Intercourse, PA; 3 sisters: Verna, wife of Martin Z. Wenger of Lititz, PA; Ida, wife of Edwin K. Wise of Ephrata, PA; and Elsie, wife of Merle Wise of Stevens, PA.

He was preceded in death by a sister, Norma. Funeral service was December 27, 2008 at The Worship Center, Lancaster, PA with Rev. Sam Smucker officiating. Interment in the Hammercreek Mennonite Cemetery, Lititz, PA
Source: Lancaster OnLine December 24, 2008
Submitted by: Leon Hertzler, Newport, NH


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