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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.

2009 A to B


   Abrahams, Norman E.;   Aeschliman, Florence A. Short;    Alderfer, Evelyn B. Landis;   Alger, Retha Romaine Mishler;   Allebach, Marvin S.;    Allebach, Richard Z.;   Amstutz, Frederick D.;   Bachman, Aldine Elizabeth Metz;   Baer, Lowell F.;   Baer, Mervin Joseph ; . .Bagley, Jr., Carl J.;   Balzer, Waldo Irvin;   Barnes, Andrew Clark;   Bartel, Rosa Linda;   Baugher, Mary Elizabeth;   Beachy, Ivan S.;   Beachy, Roman S.;    Bechtel, Lowell R.;    Beck, Frieda L. Short;   Beck, Garold Dean;   Beck, Marlene Fay Wyse;   Becker, Agnes;    Becker, Edwin;     Becker, Leland;    Beckler, Lawrence W.;   Beery, Wilda Mae Rhodes;   Beidler, Mamie G. Metz;   Beiler, Aaron E.;   Beiler, Rebecca V. Kennel;   Bender, Dwight G.;    Bender, Geneva Joyce Gingerich;   Bender, Paul E.;    Bender, Rose M. Yoder;   Benner, Charles B.;   Bennett, Ernest;     Berthold, Micah J.;   Birky, Neil Darin;   Bishop, Anna Dayton;   Bixler, Susannah Rose;   Blosser, Virgil Lamar; . . Bontrager, Anna Yoder;   Bontrager, Caroline Jennifer; . . Bontrager, Edward; . . Bontrager, Josephine M. Yoder; . . Bontrager, Mahlon;   Bontrager, Merlin "Merle" Lee, Sr.;    Bontreger, Andrew F.;   Boshart, Walter Lorain;    Brackbill, Norman W.;    Brallier, Mary Knepp;   Brandenberger, Lloyd;   Breighner, Mary K. Keeport;    Breneman, John R.;   Brenneman, Anna E. Deiter   Brockmueller, Gordon Lee;    Brubacker, Leah Nolt Zimmerman;    Brubaker, Amon S.;   Brubaker, Ezra G.;   Brubaker, Irma Schwartz Clemenson, Kopf;    Brubaker, Marlin R;   Brubaker, Minnie S.;    Brubaker, Raymond Musser;    Brubaker, Ricky;     Brubaker, Wayne S.;   Bruckhart, Jacob S. "Junie";   Brucks, Elva Susan Lehrman;   Brunk, Samuel "Sam" H;   Bryant, Elwood;    Buch, Viola M. Esbenshade;    Buckwalter, Galen N.;   Burkhart, Loretta E. Fox,   Burkholder, Ada M. Zuercher;   Burkholder, Amber Makiah;   Burkholder, Annis Virginia Coakley;   Burkholder, D. Leroy, Sr.;   Burkholder, Delmas B.;    Burkholder, Eli S.;   Burkholder, Gertrude Evelyn Martin;   Burkholder, Harold E.;   Burkholder, Melvin Martin;   Burkholder, Violet Shank;    Burkholder, Weaver W.;   Byler, Edna;     

Abrahams, Norman E.,
85, of North Newton, KS died January 8, 2009 at Wichita, Sedgwick County, Kansas from an automobile accident. 

He was born January 16, 1923 at Goessel, Marion County, Kansas to Cornelius and Anna (Dalke) Abrahams.  Cornelius was born February 27, 1893 and died November 27, 1967.  Anna was born February 21, 1900 and died August 10, 1985.

On September 26, 1944 at First Mennonite Church, Hillsboro, Marion County, Kansas he was married to Ethel Grace Ewert, who was born August 3, 1923 and survives.

Surviving are children, Nan Abrahams Graber, husband Don Graber; Dwayne Abrahams, wife Ruth Regier Abrahams; Nadine Abrahams, husband Norman Epp;
6 grandchildren, 1 great-grandchild, and two brothers, Ray Abrahams, wife Sylvia Abrahams; and Charles (Chuck) Abrahams, wife Genny Abrahams.

A son, David E. Abrahams, born 06/16/1952, died 01/17/1962 and a sister, Verna Abrahams Koehn preceded him in death.

Norman was an optometrist in Hillsboro.
 
Memorial services were held February 1, 2009 at Bethel College Mennonite Church, North Newton, Harvey County, Kansas with burial in Haven of Rest, rural Hillsboro, Marion County, Kansas.

Submitted by: Ruth Abrahams, Newton, KS
Edited by: Thelma Hoover Martin



Aeschliman, Florence A. Short
, 86, of Archbold, Fulton Co., Ohio died July 10, 2009 at the same place.  She was born October 12, 1922 at Wauseon, Fulton Co., OH to Andrew and Mary (Miller) Short.  On April 15, 1949 at Wauseon she was married to Elton J. Aeschliman, who was born September 28, 1921 and died May 9, 2002.

Surviving are children, Carma (Amos) Yoder of Rockford, IL; Merna (Tim) Bower of Wauseon, OH; Reed (LiPo) Aeschliman of Phnom, Penh, Cambodia; Lila (Mark) Zellers of Sylvania, OH; and Vonda (Jeff) Rickard of FL; 8 grandchildren,  a brother, Lawrence (Doris) Short of Archbold, OH; and a sister, Martha (David) Miller of Souderton, PA.

Three brothers, Harold Short, Verden Short and Elden Short, and five sisters, Luella Yoder, Viola Rufenacht, Lillie Short, Beulah Troyer and Mary Jane Holsopple preceded her in death.

Memorial services were held July 14, 2009 at North Clinton Mennonite Church, Wauseon, OH with burial in Pettisville Cemetery, Pettisville, Fulton Co., OH.

Submitted by: Audrey Rupp, Wauseon, OH
Edited by: Thelma Hoover Martin



Alderfer, Evelyn B. Landis
, 84, of Harleysville died March 6, 2009 at Harleysville, Montgomery Co., PA.  She was born December 24, 1924 in West Rockhill Twp., Bucks Co., PA to Clinton D. and Ellen (Beidler) Landis.  On September 8, 1945 she was married to Sanford A. Alderfer, who was born September 25, 1923 and survives.

Surviving are children, Diane L. Kropf and husband Eugene; Linda L. Martin and husband Vernon L.; Sandy L. Alderfer and wife Gail E.; Dwight L. Alderfer and wife Bev; 12 grandchildren, 4 great-grandchildren, a brother, Merril B. Landis and wife Betty, and a sister, Catherine B. Derstine.

Memorial services were held March 9, 2009 at Salford Mennonite Church, Harleysville, PA with burial in the adjoining cemetery.

Submitted by: Bradley W. Alderfer, Harleysville, PA
Edited by: Thelma Hoover Martin


Alger, Retha Romaine Mishler, 92, of Broadway, Virginia died December 21, 2009 at Harrisonburg, Rockingham Co., VA from natural causes.  She was born April 17, 1917 to Oscar and Emma (Miller) Mishler.  She was married to John P. Alger, who survives.

Surviving are a son, Victor E. Alger (spouse: Judith Y. Alger); a daughter, Wanda L. Alger (spouse: Scott Waples), and 2 grandchildren.

Memorial services were held January 6, 2010 at Zion Mennonite Church, Broadway, VA.

Submitted by: Administrative Assistant
Zion Mennonite Church, Broadway, VA
Edited by: Thelma Hoover Martin


Allebach, Marvin S.
, 80 years, 5 months, 23 days, of Souderton, PA died September 12, 2009 at Sellersville, PA.  He was born March 20, 1929 at Sellersville, PA to Paul F. and Elizabeth (Souder) Allebach.  On June 3, 1950 he was married to Esther Nice, who was born October 18, 1930 and survives.

Surviving are children, David Allebach, Philip Allebach and his wife Carol, Janice Ashley and her husband Milton, Teresa Alderfer and her husband Kevin, 9 grandchildren, and siblings, Ruth Sheeler and her husband James, Esther King and her husband David, Miriam Mack, Lois Leatherman and her husband Don, Paul Allebach and his wife Sandy, Gerald Allebach and his wife Margy, Elaine Derstine and her husband John, James Allebach and his wife Sylvia.

Memorial services were held September 19, 2009 at Rockhill Mennonite Church, Telford, PA with burial in the adjoining cemetery.

Submitted by: Rockhill Mennonite Church, Telford, PA
Edited by: Thelma Hoover Martin


Allebach, Richard Z.
, 59, of Harleysville, PA died February 4, 2008 at Sellersville, Bucks Co., PA.  He was born January 2, 1950 at Sellersville to Willard M. and Lourene (Ziegler) Allebach.  On April 15, 1978 he was married to Diane Seaman, who was born June 30, 1953 and survives.

Surviving are two sisters, Mary Lou Bechtel and Joyce Z. Ruth and husband Dan Ruth.

Memorial services were held February 8, 2009 at Salford Mennonite Church, Harleysville, Montgomery Co., PA with burial in the adjoining cemetery.

Submitted by: Bradley W. Alderfer, Harleysville, PA
Edited by: Thelma Hoover Martin



Amstutz, Frederick D.
, 80, of Bluffton, OH died September 1, 2009 at the same place.  He was born January 14, 1929 and on August 14, 1948 he was married to Mary Schmidt.

Surviving are children, Daniel Amstutz, James Amstutz, Steven Amstutz, Peter Amstutz, and 13 grandchildren.

Memorial services were held September 4, 2009 at First Mennonite Church, Bluffton, OH.
Submitted by: Mary Amstutz
Edited by: Thelma Hoover Martin



Bachman, Aldine Elizabeth Metz
, 89, of Hopedale died January 17, 2009 at Paxton, IL from natural causes.  She was born March 2, 1919 at Forest, IL to Fred and Mary (Koch) Metz.  On August 14, 1938 at Washington, IL she was married to David Bachman, who died June 13, 1996.

Surviving are children, Roger David Bachman, Eunice Kay Harris, Marilyn Litwiller, Alice Ann Slager, 11 grandchildren, and 23 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by one sister, four brothers and twin granddaughters.

She and her husband helped establish the South Pekin Mennonite Church where Aldine actively participated in teaching Sunday School and Vacation Bible School for 14 years.

Memorial services were held January 24, 2009 at Hopedale Mennonite Church Hopedale, IL with burial in the adjoining cemetery.

Submitted by: Mary Lee Springer
Hopedale Mennonite Church, Hopedale, IL
Edited by: Thelma Hoover Martin



Baer, Lowell F.
, 96, of Sterling, IL died there on January 16, 2009.  He was born May 28, 1912 at Sterling, Whiteside Co., IL to Lloyd and Bertha (Hinz) Baer.  On April 19, 1998 he was married to Lee Gowan, who was born July 3, 1922 and survives.

His first wife was Dorothy (Musgrave) Baer. They were married January 16, 1937. She died November 22, 1996.

Surviving are children, Barbara (James) Ebersole; Judith (Leonard) Long; Beth (Phillip Shank; Dorothy (David) Ulrich; Lila (Edward) Miller; step-daughter, Judith (Curtis) Repass; step-daughter June (Donald) Sullivan; 6 step & 18 grandchildren, and numerous great-grandchildren.

A sister, Valera Mellot preceded him in death.

Lowell was an active member of the church and served in many leadership roles.

Memorial services were held January 22, 2009 at Science Ridge Mennonite Church, Sterling, Whiteside Co., IL with burial in the adjoining cemetery.

Submitted by: Sue Dirks, Sterling, IL
Edited by: Thelma Hoover Martin



Bagley, Jr., Carl J.
64, of Goshen, IN, died July 17, 2009, He was born September 23, 1944 in Kalamazoo, MI to Carl J. and Mildred Viola (Hobbs) Bagley.  He married Phyllis Rabb on July 2, 1965 in Kalamazoo. He served in "B" Company, 6th Engineer Battalion of the US Marine Corp from 1962 to 1970. Survived by his wife; two sons, George (Lisa) Bagley of Osceola, MI and Lewis Bagley of South Bend, MI; seven grandchildren; 25 nieces and nephews; and siblings, Patrica Bagley of Fredericksburg, VA, Dianne Pickrell of Portage, MI, Phyllis (Jeff) Jenkins of Lexington, IL, Rev. William (Gloria) Bagley of Preston, ID, Tim (Jeannie) Bagley of Aurora, CO, Jean (Kevin) Bowers and  Shannon (Jennifer) Bagley, both of Portage, MI. Funeral service was July 21, 2009 at Mount Joy Mennonite Church, Goshen, IN  Rev. William J. Bagley, Carl's brother, and Rev. Nelson Yoder of Mount Joy Mennonite Church will officiate. Burial was in the Prairieville Cemetery, Prairieville, MI.
Source: Obit. Files of Yoder-Culp Funeral Home, Goshen, IN
Submitted by: Leon Hertzler, 9/01/2009


Baer, Mervin Joseph
January 15, 1915 - August 30, 2009

Mervin Joseph Baer went to be with the Lord on August 30, 2009, at the age of 94 years, 8 months, and 15 days. Mervin was born in Maugansville, Maryland on Jan. 15, 1915, to Adam and Ella (Martin) Baer. His early years were spent in the Maugansville area. When he was three years of age his family moved to Pinola, PA. Due to his father's unfaithfulness be was shuffled from home to home during his growing-up years, as his mother struggled to provide for her family.

Mervin responded to the call of God as a youth, and was baptized into the Rowe Mennonite Church near Pinola on February 16, 1930, at the age of 15. On June 9, 1934, at nineteen years of age, he married Fannie Elizabeth Rife of Chambersburg PA. He worked as a carpenter and builder to provide for his growing family during the depression years, and later entered into farming and dairying. The family also operated a farm market business for a number of years. In 1951 he was ordained to the ministry and traveled church-wide, preaching and helping to establish new churches in out-lying areas. He traveled to the Robson Valley in the fifties, and chose it as a site for establishing a church. In 1962 he moved his family west and assumed leadership of the fledgling congregation at McBride. His life was dedicated to serving the Lord Jesus Christ in the church he loved, and he faithfully gave to this cause the gifts and time that God granted to him. As his health began to fail, his work was taken up by others who were inspired by his vision and purpose. He spent his later years, cared for by his family, and passed away peacefully at his home in McBride.

Mervin is survived by five daughters: Joyce (Wayne) Zimmerman, of McBride, B.C., Joanne (Marlin) Zimmerman, of Unity, Wisconsin, Faye (Jesse) Peachey of Raymond, Alberta, Marilyn (Harvey) Witmer of Wild Rose, Wisconsin, Jean (Marvin) Rohrer of La Glace, Alberta, and six sons: Larry (Marlene) of Russelville, Kentucky, Leon (Betty) of McBride, Dennis (Ruth) of Carpenter, Wyoming, James (Jody) of Salmon Arm, B.C., John (Marie) of Sexsmith, Alberta and Allen (Margaret) of Logan, Ohio, two Brothers: Harry Baer of Dunster, B. C. and Nelson Baer of Hagerstown, Maryland, one sister, Miriam Eberly, of Fayetteville, PA. and 91 grandchildren, 307 great-grandchildren, and 50 great, great grandchildren He was preceded in death by an infant daughter, his beloved wife Fannie, two grandsons, four great grandsons, and two sisters, Lydia Keener and Ruth Torkelson. The family extends thanks, first of all to God for the faithful witness of their father, the church for their untiring support through the years of his failing health, and the community and friends for their condolences and prayers over the time of his passing. Also, the kindness expressed through the gifts of food and cards was very much appreciated. -The Family

McBride Paper, McBride, British Columbia
September 9, 2009
Submitted by: Leon Hertzler, Newport, NH



Balzer, Waldo Irvin
, 98, of Newton, KS died May 1, 2009 at the same place.  He was born December 15, 1910 at Tyrone, OK to Peter and Mary (Schmidt) Balzer.  On June 21, 1942 at Elbing, KS he was married to Ruth Mosiman, who died July 10, 2008.

Surviving are a son, Mike (Kathy) Balzer, a daughter, Janet (Ray) Franz, five grandchildren, and one great-grandchild.

A son, Larry Balzer, two brothers, Paul Balzer and Arnold Balzer, and a sister, Alieda Harms preceded him in death.

Memorial services were held May 5, 2009 at Grace Hill Mennonite, Whitewater, Harvey Co., KS with burial in the adjoining cemetery.

Submitted by: Debbie Claassen, Whitewater, KS
Edited by: Thelma Hoover Martin



Barnes, Andrew Clark
, of Paradise was born and died June 3, 2009 at Lancaster, Lancaster Co., PA  

He was born to Thadeus and Charolette (Beiler) Barnes.  Charolette was born March 29, 1978 and Thadeus was born August 27, 1973, they survive.

Memorial services were held June 6, 2009 at Maple Grove Mennonite Church, Atglen, Chester Co., PA with burial in the adjoining cemetery.

Submitted by: RuthAnn Bruner, Atglen, PA
Edited by: Thelma Hoover Martin



Bartel, Rosa Linda
, 91, of Aberdeen, Idaho died February 26, 2009 at Pocatello, Bannock County, Idaho.  She was born June 25, 1917 at Aberdeen, Bingham County, Idaho to Peter W. and Sara (Becker) Bartel.

Her brothers and sister, Arnold, Susie, Milton and Herb Bartel preceded her in death.

Memorial services were held March 4, 2009 at First Mennonite Church, Aberdeen, Idaho, Pastor Jerry Kaiser, officiating with burial in Homestead Cemetery, Aberdeen, Idaho.
Submitted by: Anne Hege, Aberdeen, ID
Edited by: Thelma Hoover Martin



Baugher, Mary Elizabeth
, 80, of Harrisonburg, Rockingham Co., VA died May 29, 2009 at the same place.  She was born September 5, 1928 in Rockingham Co., VA to  Grover C. and Tessie (McDorman) Baugher.

Surviving is a brother, Grover C. Baugher, Jr.

Eleven brothers and sisters preceded her in death.

Memorial services were held June 1, 2009 at Mount Clinton Mennonite Church, Mount Clinton, Rockingham Co., VA with burial in the adjoining cemetery.

Submitted by: Ann B. Hensley, Harrisonburg, VA
Edited by: Thelma Hoover Martin



Beachy, Ivan S.
89, of Dundee, OH died Oct. 8, 2009, at his residence. He was born March 23, 1920, in Tuscarawas County to the late Simon J. and Lizzie (Miller) Beachy, and married Elizabeth Ann Shrock on Nov. 4, 1941. She preceded him in death on June 21, 2001.

Ivan was retired from farming. He was a member of Agape Christian Fellowship Church in Sugarcreek, OH.

Survied by daughters, Leona (Henry C.) Schlabach of Sugarcreek, OH; Ruth (William) Troyer of Marysville, OH; Mary Ellen (Ervin) Brubaker of Loogootee, Ind., and Faith (Lamar) Lapp of Antrim, OH and sons, Mose I. (Ellen) Beachy of Sugarcreek, OH; Paul I. (Wilma) Beachy of Bastrop, Texas, Henry I. (Dora) Beachy and Mark Ivan (Mary) Beachy both of Dundee, OH; 36 grandchildren, 46 great-grandchildren; a brother, Roman Beachy of Belvidere, Tenn.; and a sister, Anna Mae Beachy of Sugarcreek, OH.

In addition to his wife, he was preceded by three infants, a sister and a brother. Services were Oct. 11, at 10 a.m. at Maranatha Fellowship Church in Sugarcreek, OH with Pastors Bill Mullet and Luke Stutzman officiating.
Source: The Daily-Record.com, October 9, 2009
Submitted by: Leon Hertzler




Beachy, Roman S.
86, of Huntland, Tenn., died October 15, 2009, at Southern Tennessee Medical Center in Winchester, Tenn. He was born March 23, 1923, in Tuscarawas County, O. to Simon and Lizzie (Miller) Beachy. He married Ada Mullet on November. 13, 1947, and she survives.

They lived near Sugarcreek, OH where he was a poultry farmer, before moving to Tennessee in 1972.  He was a member and retired deacon of the Belvidere Mennonite Church in Belvidere, Tenn.

Survived by his wife and six sons, David R (Miriam) Beachy of Strasburg, OH James R. (Mary Ann) Beachy of Dover, OH; Ivan R. (Elsie) Beachy of Free Union, Va., Merle (Sue) of East Africa, Kenya, Stephen R. (Susan) Beachy of Huntland, Tenn., Gabriel R. (Sheila) Beachy of Wellman, Iowa; one daughter, Tryphena (Ken) Beachy of Winchester, Tenn.; 32 grandchildren and 27 great-grandchildren; one sister, Anna Mae Beachy of Sugarcreek, OH.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one sister, Mary Ann; and two brothers, Menno, and Ivan who passed away one week ago.  

Funeral service was October 19, 2009, at the Belvidere Mennonite Church Belvidere, TN.
Source:  The Budget October, 2009
Sugarcreek, OH
Submitted by: Leon Hertzler



Bechtel, Lowell R.
90, of Goshen, IN died May 15, 2009, at Greencroft Healthcare.  He was born May 27, 1918 in Goshen, to Ira and Rosa (Rensberger) Bechtel.  He married Sarah "Betty" Whirledge on August 25, 1940 at Eighth Street Mennonite Church, Goshen  She preceded him in death on May 16, 2000. He was a member of the Eighth Street Mennonite Church, Goshen, IN. He served on the Board of Directors for the Goshen Historical Society. He was a postal clerk with the Goshen Post Office, fotmerly served with the US Navy on the destroyer escort USS Hunt.

Survived by a daughter, Jane (David) Troup of Goshen, IN; two sons, Thomas (Jeannette) Bechtel of Goshen, IN and Edward (Linda) Bechtel of Elkhart, IN; six grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and two sisters, Doris (Carl) Smoker of Monroe, GA, and Betty Joann (Jim) Boshart of Atoka, TN.

He was preceded in death by his wife; a great-grandson, Nick Simms; two brothers, Russell and John Bechtel; and two sisters, Phyllis Roth and Mary Lou Longcor.

Funeral service was May 18, 2009 at Eighth Street Mennonite Church, Goshen, IN.  Pastors Brenda Sawatzky-Paetkau and Kevin Farmwald will officiate. Burial was in Violett Cemetery, Goshen, IN.
Source: Obituary files of Yoder-Culp Funeral Home, Goshen, IN
Submitted by: Leon Hertzler, 9/01/2009


Beck, Frieda L. Short
, 94, of  Archbold, Fulton County, Ohio died August 14, 2009 at the same place.  She was born March 14, 1915 at Archbold to Henry R. and  Eliza (Eicher) Short.  She was married to Herman Beck, who is deceased.

Surviving are a son, Merle (Marlene) Beck and a daughter, Carolyn (Darrel) King, 7 grandchildren, and 21 great-grandchildren.

Memorial services were held August 19, 2009 at Fairlawn Haven Chapel, Archbold, OH.
Submitted by: Barb Crossgrove, Stryker, OH
Edited by: Thelma Hoover Martin



Beck, Garold Dean
, 70, of Archbold, Fulton County, Ohio died there on March 23, 2009.  He was born January 7, 1939 to Dale E. and Meredith Beck.  On November 17, 1957 he was married to Neva Miller, who was born March 18, 1936 and survives.

Also surviving are his mother, children: Tom (Jamie) Beck; Ann (Rich) King; Linda (Rod) Klopfenstein; and foster son Rudy (Cindy) Saldivar; 17 grandchildren, brothers: Wendell (Bonnie) Beck; and Conrad (Peggy) Beck; a sister Marlene (Merle) Beck; and sister-in-law Carol Beck.

His father preceded him in death.

Memorial services were held March 26, 2009 at North Clinton Mennonite Church, Wauseon, Ohio with burial in Pettisville Cemetery, Pettisville, Fulton County, Ohio.
Submitted by: Audrey Rupp, Wauseon, OH
Edited by: Thelma Hoover Martin



Beck, Marlene Fay Wyse
, 71, of Archbold, OH died August 15, 2009 at Defiance, Defiance Co., OH.  She was born August 1, 1938 at Wauseon, Fulton Co., OH to Daniel "Digger" and Marjory (Werder) Wyse.  She was married to Lowell Beck.

Surviving are two daughters, Judi (Steve) Gongwer; and Jan (Jeff) Sears; and 7 grandchildren.

Memorial services were held August 21, 2009 at Lockport Mennonite Church, Stryker, Williams Co., OH.
Submitted by: Barb Crossgrove, Stryker, OH
Edited by: Thelma Hoover Martin



Becker, Agnes
, 93, of Aberdeen, Bingham County, Idaho died October 11, 2009 at American Falls, Power County, Idaho from natural causes.  She was born May 11, 1916 at Aberdeen to Peter J. and Anna (Boese) Becker.

Surviving is a sister, Kathryn Becker Isaak.

Three brothers, Henry, Peter, and Eldon, and two sisters, Linda, and Esther  preceded her in death.

Memorial services were held October 14, 2009 at First Mennonite Church, Aberdeen, Idaho with burial in Homestead Cemetery, Aberdeen, Idaho.

Submitted by: Anne Hege, Aberdeen, ID
Edited by: Thelma Hoover Martin



Becker, Edwin,
98, of Goessel, KS died August 25, 2009 at the same place.  He was born July 15, 1911 at Aberdeen, Idaho to David and Elizabeth (Schultz) Becker. 

Surviving are daughters: Elizabeth & Wilbur Hershberger, and Martha & Darvin Yoder; and a son: Daniel & Marlys Becker, 9 grandchildren, and 10 great-grandchildren.

His three wives, Arletta Selzer; Norma Goering; and Elma Wenger preceded him in death.

Memorial services were held August 29, 2009 at Whitestone Mennonite Church, Hesston, Harvey Co., KS with burial in Spring Valley, Canton, KS.

Submitted by: Donna Koehn, Hesston, KS
Edited by: Thelma Hoover Martin



Becker, Leland
, 71, of Aberdeen, Bingham County, Idaho died July 26, 2009 at the same place in his sleep.  He was born October 5, 1937 at Aberdeen to Waldo and Beatrice (Johnson) Becker.

Surviving are two daughters; one son, several grandchildren, and a brother, Frank (Naioma).

Memorial services were held July 29, 2009 at First Mennonite Church, Aberdeen, Idaho with burial in Homestead Cemetery, Aberdeen, Idaho.

Submitted by: Anne Hege, Aberdeen, ID
Edited by: Thelma Hoover Martin



Beckler, Lawrence W.
, 87, of Seward, NE died March 8, 2009 at Peoria, AZ.  He was born December 11, 1922 at Milford, Seward County, NE to William Wesley and Anna (Roth) Beckler.  On September 5, 1992 at Seward, NE he was married to Lillian Stutzman-Eicher, who survives.

Surviving are children, Richard & Ruth Beckler; Larry & Teri Beckler; Step children - Rebecca & Dale Kremer; Warren & Donna Eicher; Tamara & Ron Wergin; James & Kaye Eicher; 5 grandchildren and 9 step-grandchildren, 2 great-grandchildren and 9 step-great-grandchildren, two brothers, Robert & Beverly Beckler; and  Charles & Linda Beckler; and two sisters, Mary & Roland Jantzi; and Donna & Orlen Stauffer.

His first wife, Della (Reeb) Beckler, in 1991, a brother, Orie & Alice Beckler, and a sister, Edna & Wallace Stauffer preceded him in death.

He was the former owner of Beckler's Implement Company in Seward.

Memorial services were held March 17, 2009 at Bellwood Mennonite Church, Milford, NE with burial in Seward Cemetery, Seward, NE.

Submitted by: Pam Erb, Milford, NE
Edited by: Thelma Hoover Martin



Beery, Wilda Mae Rhodes
, 85, a resident of 2542 Harness Shop Road, Dayton, died Sunday morning, Aug. 2, 2009, at her home.  She had been in failing health for the past four weeks.

Mrs. Beery was born Jan. 26, 1924, near Dayton, and was the daughter of the late Samuel and Ella A. (Rohrer) Rhodes.  She was a homemaker and a member of the Pleasant View Old Order Mennonite Church.

Surviving are her husband of 62 years, Joseph G. Beery, whom she married on Feb. 19, 1947; six sons, Allen R. Beery and wife, Eunice, of Dayton, Neil D. Beery and wife, Lucy, of Harrisonburg, Dwight S. Beery and wife, Erma, Warren E. Beery and wife, Marilyn, Harry Lee Beery and wife, Melinda, and J. Galen Beery and wife, Barbara, all of Dayton; one daughter, Mary Ella Knicely and husband, Stanley, of Dayton; a son-in-law, Byard H. Showalter, of Dayton; 34 grandchildren and 60 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by a daughter, Ethel Marie Beery Showalter, on Nov. 18, 2008, and two great-grandchildren.

Also surviving are six brothers and four sisters, Anna Ruth Showalter, Roy F. Rhodes, Edwin R. Rhodes, Lena F. Witmer, Betty L. Horst, Homer D. Rhodes, Edna A. Martin, and Charles N. Rhodes, all of Dayton, Joseph S. Rhodes of Bridgewater, and Marvin B. Rhodes of Scottsville, Ky.

She was preceded in death by one sister, Eva Marie Burkholder, on June 5, 2009.

Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 5, 2009, at Pleasant View Old Order Mennonite Church with the ministers of the church officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.

The family will receive friends at the Beery home today and Tuesday until 8 p.m.

Arrangements are by McMullen Funeral Home in Harrisonburg.
Daily News Record - 8/3/2009
Harrisonburg, VA
Submitted by: Robert Fish



Beidler, Mamie G. Metz
, 94, of Souderton, PA; formerly of Telford, PA. died September 11, 2009 at Souderton Mennonite Homes. She was born December 12, 1914 in Lower Salford Twp. PA to the late Abraham and Flora (Godshall) Metz. Wife of the late Willard B. Beidler.

Mamie was a charter member of Perkiomenville Mennonite Church.

Survived by: Murray Beidler (Son) & wife, Joanna of Brushton, NY; Darlene Alderfer (Daughter) & husband, Clyde of Mount Pleasant Mills, PA; Donald Beidler (Son) & wife, Anita of Leola, PA; Susan Beidler (Daughter-In-Law) of Florence, OR; Thelma Hunsberger (Daughter) & husband, Jim of Mount Pleasant Mills, PA; David Beidler (Son) & wife, Doreen of White River Junction, VT; Rodney Beidler (Son) & wife, Wendy of Perkasie, PA; Grandchildren: 27; Great-Grandchildren: 43.

She was preceded in death by: Willard Beidler, Jr. (Son); Titus, Abram, Harvey, Henry, Herman & Walton Metz (Brothers); Ada Metz (Sister).

Funeral services was September 18th, 2009 at Souderton Mennonite Summit View Auditorium Souderton, PA. Burial was at the Perkiomenville Mennonite Cemetery, Perkiomenville. PA
Source: Obit files of Anders-Detweiler Funeral Home & Crematory, Souderton, PA
Submitted by: Leon Hertzler



Beiler, Aaron E.
81, of Kinzers, PA, died February 2, 2009. He was born in Leacock Twp., Lancaster Co., PA to Christian E. and Rachel Lapp Beiler. He was the husband of Naomi Beiler Beiler. They celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary in November 2008.

He was a member of the Mine Road Amish Mennonite church. He was a farmer in the Gap area for 24 years and a taxi driver for the Amish for 27 years.

Surviving is his wife and sons, Vernon husband of Elizabeth Fisher Beiler, Arthur husband of Fannie Hershberger Beachy Beiler, Marlin husband of Gloria Stutzman Beiler all of Paradise, PA and Naaman husband of Louise Martin Beiler, Mobile, AL; four brothers and four sisters, George (Rhoda) of Gordonville, PA; Elvin (Ruth), Roman (Fannie), Kenneth (Anna Mary), all of Paradise, PA; Minerva (Ray) Kauffman of Burgettstown, PA.; Mary (David) King of Mifflinburg, PA., Erma (Cristian) Zook, Gap, PA and Alta Beiler of Ronks, PA; a sister-in-law, Lillian Kauffman Beiler of Kinzers, PA and a brother-in-law Floyd Stoltzfus of New Holland, PA; fourteen grandchildren; six step grandchildren; eight great grandchildren; three foster great-grandchildren; and 11 step great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by: a son Floyd; a daughter Orpha; two sisters, Lillian Stoltzfus and a stillborn child; three brothers, Melvin, Lloyd and Calvin; a great-granddaughter and a step great-granddaughter. Funeral service was February 6, 2009 at Mine Road Amish Mennonite Church Interment was in the Mine Road Amish Mennonite Cemetery Paradise, PA.
Source: Obitury files of Furman Home for Funerals, Leola, PA.
Submitted by: Leon Hertzler, 9/01/2009


Beiler, Rebecca V. Kennel
, age 93, of Landis Homes, Lititz, formerly of Intercourse passed away at Landis Homes on Friday, October 30, 2009.

She was the wife of the late Elmer Kauffman Beiler who passed away on March 2, 1981. She was born in Parkesburg, daughter of the late John A. & Emma Kauffman Kennel. She was a member of Millwood Mennonite Church for over 70 years, where she was a member of the sewing circle and was a former Sunday School teacher for over 30 years. She enjoyed quilting.

Surviving are 5 children: Joy L. Horst of Reinholds, Sherrill G. wife of Kenneth Martin of East Earl, Emma Sue wife of Timothy Fisher, J. Marlene Beiler, both of Lancaster, E. Kenneth husband of Judy L. Thompson Beiler of Kirkwood; 8 grandchildren, 21 great grandchildren; 3 siblings: Mary Emma Nafziger, Minerva M. Kennel, both of Landis Homes, and John husband of Mildred Martin Kennel of Parkesburg. She was preceded in death by a son: J. Marlin Beiler; granddaughter:
Lynnae Stauffer; 2 sisters: Ada & Lena Kennel.

Funeral service will take place from the Millwood Mennonite Church, 441 Amish Road, Gap, PA on Wednesday, November 4th, at 11 a.m. There will be a viewing at the East Bethany Chapel of Landis Homes, 1001 E. Oregon Road, Lititz, PA on Tuesday morning, November 3rd, from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and again at the Millwood Mennonite Church on Tuesday evening from 6 to 8 p.m. There will also be a time to view on Wednesday morning at the church from 10 a.m. until time of service. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Hospice of Lancaster
County, P.O. Box 4125, Lancaster, PA 17604 or the Benevolence Fund of Landis Homes, 1001 E. Oregon Road, Lititz, PA 17543. Arrangements by the Shivery Funeral Home, Christiana & Paradise.
Intelligencer Journal - 10/31/2009
Lancaster, PA
Submitted by: Robert Fish
------------

Beiler, Rebecca V. Kennel, age 93, of Landis Homes, Lititz, PA formerly of Intercourse. PA died October 30, 2009 She was born in Parkesburg, PA to John A. & Emma Kauffman Kennel. She was the wife of the late Elmer Kauffman Beiler who passed away on March 2, 1981.

She was a member of Millwood Mennonite Church for over 70 years, where she was a member of the sewing circle and was a former Sunday School teacher for over 30 years.

Surviving are 5 children: Joy L. Horst of Reinholds, PA; Sherrill G. wife of Kenneth Martin of East Earl, PA; Emma Sue wife of Timothy Fisher, J. Marlene Beiler, both of Lancaster, PA; E. Kenneth husband of Judy L. Thompson Beiler of Kirkwood, PA; 8 grandchildren, 21 great grandchildren; 3 siblings: Mary Emma Nafziger, Minerva M. Kennel, both of Landis Homes, Lititz, PA and John husband of Mildred Martin Kennel of Parkesburg, PA.

She was preceded in death by her husband, a son: J. Marlin Beiler; granddaughter: Lynnae Stauffer; 2 sisters: Ada & Lena Kennel.

Funeral service was November 4, 2009 the Millwood Mennonite Church, Gap, PA
Source: LOL October 31, 2009
Lancaster, PA
Submitted by: Leon Hertzler



Bender, Dwight G.
, 82, of Kalona, IA died October 8, 2009 at the same place.  He was born March 22, 1927 at Iowa City, IA to George S. and Sarah M. (Eash) Bender.  On June 27, 1948 at rural Kalona, IA he was married to Henrietta June Hochstetler, who was born June 27, 1929 and died January 24, 2003.

Surviving are children, Julia Bender; Gloria (Gay) Widmer; Donovan (Karen) Bender; and Beth Bender; 4 grandchildren, 3 great-grandchildren, and a brother, Clayton Bender.

Dwight and June Bender lived in rural Wellman where Dwight farmed and delivered L.P. for Home Gas Company, retiring in 1995. Following retirement the couple moved to Kalona. Dwight was a member of West Union Mennonite Church, where he held various positions over the years.

Memorial services were held October 11, 2009 at West Union Mennonite Church, Parnell, Iowa with burial in the adjoining cemetery.

Submitted by: Theresa Blossom, Parnell, IA
Edited by: Thelma Hoover Martin



Bender, Geneva Joyce Gingerich
, 66, of  Middlebury, IN died March 23, 2009 at IU Medical Center Indianapolis, IN. She was born February 21, 1943 in Rolette, ND, to Ezra and Gladys (Bontrager) Gingerich. On April 21, 1962 in Elkhart County, IN. she married Eugene "Gene" Bender. She was a member of First Mennonite Church, Middlebury, IN.

Surviving is her husband, are three Daughters, Debra Sue (George) Smith of White Pigeon, MI, Sheila Renae (Vince) Hostetler of Middlebury, IN, Crystal  Dawn (Jay) Christner of Middlebury, IN; a son, Darin Eugene (Wanita) Bender of Goshen, IN.; ten Grandchildren;  three sisters, Marie (Elroy) Miller of Millersburg, IN., Viola (Ned) Miller of Goshen, IN., Carol (Gerald) Beachy of Millersburg, IN. She was preceded in death by her parents, a brother, Marvin Gingerich; and a grandson, Ryan Bender.

Funeral service was March 28, 2009 at First Mennonite Church, Middlebury. Services will be conducted by Rev. Linford Martin and Rev. Pamela Yoder. Burial was in Grace Lawn Cemetery, Middlebury, IN 
Source: obituary files of Miller-Stewart Funeral Home, Middlebury, IN
Submitted by: Leon Hertzler 
-----------

Bender, Geneva Joyce Gingerich, 66, of Middlebury, Elkhart Co., IN died March 23, 2009 at Indianapolis, IN while waiting for a liver transplant.  She was born February 21 1943 at Rolette, ND to Ezra and Gladys (Bontrager) Gingerich.  On April 21, 1962 in Elkhart Co., IN she was married to Eugene Bender, who was born January 18, 1940 and survives.

Surviving are children, Debra (George) Smith, Darin (Wanita) Bender, Sheila (Vince) Hostetler, Crystal (Jay) Christner, 10grandchildren, and three sisters, Marie (Elroy) Miller, Carol (Gerald) Beachy, and Viola (Ned) Miller.

A grandson, Ryan Bender and a brother, Marvin Gingerich preceded her in death.

Geneva was a homemaker and worked as a custodian for the Middlebury Community Schools.  She was a member of First Mennonite Church, Middlebury, where she taught Sunday school and Bible school.  She loved to watch her grandchildren's sporting events and spend time with her sisters singing.  She was grateful for the 15 years she was able to spend with her family and friends following her first liver transplant.

Memorial services were held March 28, 2009 at First Mennonite Church, Middlebury, IN with burial in Grace Lawn Cemetery, Middlebury, IN.

Submitted by: DeRoy Kauffman, Middlebury, IN
Edited by: Thelma Hoover Martin



Bender, Paul E.
, 83, of Belleville, PA, died Wednesday, May 13, 2009. Born in Kalona, Iowa to the late Lewis and Barbara (Miller) Bender, he married Leona M. (Miller) Bender, who survives.

Also surviving are his children: Lois A. Arnold of Bronx, NY; John P. Bender & wife Mildred of Greensboro, NC; L. Roy Bender & wife Connie of Lancaster; Titus W. Bender & friend Amy of Belleville; Miriam D. Ferguson & husband John of Mechanicsville, VA; Loren E. Bender & wife Judy of New Holland; 14 grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren.

Paul was preceded in death by son, Kevin Ray Bender; grandson, Ryan Scott Bender; and son-in-law, Roger Arnold.

Paul served in CPS, attended Eastern Mennonite University and Penn State University, and served as a school teacher and principal. He was an ordained Mennonite pastor for nearly 60 years; repaired watches and clocks, and prepared taxes. He enjoyed family and friends, genealogy, and the Big Valley Mennonite Historical Society.

His funeral will be held 10:30 a.m. Monday, May 18, 2009 at Maple Grove Mennonite Church, 115 Maple Grove Road, Belleville. Interment will be at Allensville Mennonite Cemetery. His family will receive friends Sunday from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. and Monday and 9 to 10 a.m. at Maple Grove Mennonite <http://Church.The>Church.The family will provide the flowers. Should friends desire, memorials may be made to: Mennonite Central Committee, P.O. Box 500, Akron, PA 17501-0500.

Arrangements are under the care of Baggus Funeral Home, Belleville, PA.
Intelligencer Journal - 5/15/2009
Lancaster, PA
Submitted by: Robert Fish



Bender, Rose M. Yoder
, 92, of Kalona died January 22, 2009 at Kalona, Washington County, Iowa from natural causes.  She was born October 16, 1916 at Wolford, North Dakota to Mose F. and Hannah (Graber) Yoder.  On July 1, 1972 she was married to Gerald Bender, who is deceased.

Surviving are children, Marlene and Paul Ropp; Ruby and Ezra Miller; Dale Schrock; Delbert and Linda Schrock; 24 grandchildren, and 2 great-grandchildren.

Four brothers: Albert Yoder, Sylvan Yoder, Peter Yoder, and Henry Yoder, and two sisters: Fannie Mast and Katie Troyer preceded her in death.

Memorial services were held January 26, 2009 at Kalona Mennonite Church, Kalona, Washington County, Iowa with burial in West Union Cemetery, Kalona, Iowa.

Submitted by: Bonnie Pickard, Kalona, IA
Edited by: Thelma Hoover Martin



Benner, Charles B.
, 86, of Souderton, Montgomery Co., PA died July 22, 2009 at the same place from cerebrovascular disease.  He was born October 14, 1922 at Lansdale, Montgomery Co., PA to Webster M.-2/26/1893 and Hannah (Brunner) Benner.  On June 6, 1942 he was married to Marie M. Moyer, who was born October 6, 1924 and survives.

Surviving are children, Dennis M. Benner & wife Donita; C. David Benner & wife Elfriede; Timothy Benner & wife Pamela; Neil Benner & wife Barbara; Christine Seasholtz & husband William; 14 grandchildren,  6 great-grandchildren, a brother, Webster Benner Jr & wife Dorothy; and two  sisters, Regina Moyer; and Hannah Bannon & husband, Norris.

Two brothers, Ralph Benner, and Robert Benner, and a sister, Ruth Yoder preceded him in death.

Memorial services were held July 27, 2009 at Souderton Mennonite Homes Chapel, Souderton, PA with burial in Franconia Mennonite Church Cemetery, Telford,
Montgomery County, PA.
Submitted by: Barb Moyer, Telford, PA
Edited by: Thelma Hoover Martin



Bennett, Ernest


Mission administrator, 94, served with passion, humility
By Mennonite Mission Network staff

GOSHEN, Ind. - Ernest Bennett, who served with passion and humility as a leader of mission efforts in the former Mennonite Church for more than two decades, died Nov. 18 [2009] in Greencroft Healthcare [Goshen, IN]. He was 94.

Bennett served with Mennonite Health Association, Mennonite Health Assembly and Mennonite Central Committee, but spent most of his career with Mennonite Board of Missions, a predecessor agency of Mennonite Mission Network, including 21 years as executive secretary.

Stanley Green, MMN executive director, said Bennett had a rare practical wisdom that he fused with a love for the church and a passion for God's mission.

Missiologist Wilbert Shenk, who directed MBM's overseas missions from 1965 to 1990, said Bennett's steadiness, judgment and trust in others made him a wonderful administrator during a time of major changes.

"He had a good feel for financial questions, especially good sense about structures and structuring, but he wasn't guided by a rigid ideology or theory," Shenk said. "He didn't protect old structures but was open to modifying and changing."

John Powell, MMN church relations associate and anti-racism coordinator, said Bennett hired him to help begin the Minorities Ministry Council in the late 1960s.

Powell noted Bennett's support of the council, especially at a time when race relations were at a critical and contentious point.

"He walked a fine line to try to be supportive of us," Powell said. "He was caught, but also ready to help the constituency understand where people of color were coming from."

One generation of children who grew up in Mennonite churches may better know Bennett through a sort of doppelganger. Bennett and Sam Janzen, then MBM board chair, were the naming inspirations of hand puppet Ernest Sam, developed by MBM staff member Mary Ann Halteman Conrad to introduce children to mission projects. The puppet, and accompanying cartoons and a coloring book, were widely distributed in congregations.

In retirement, Bennett served as custodian at Prairie Street Mennonite Church in Elkhart. James Krabill, MMN senior executive for global ministries, was Prairie Street's custodian for three years as a youth. He said he and Bennett joked that they had switched places.

"He was never above doing anything to serve the church," Krabill said.

Bennett was born Jan. 22, 1915, in Cumberland, Md., to Frank and Theoda (Collins) Bennett. He married Earla Hostetter on July 12, 1941, in Akron, Pa. She died Nov. 10, 2008.

Bennett received bachelor's degrees from Goshen College and Eastern Mennonite Seminary in Harrisonburg, Va. He served a residency in hospital administration at Memorial Hospital in South Bend.

During the Spanish Civil War in 1939, Bennett did relief work in Spain with the Mennonite Relief Committee. In the early days of World War II he served under Mennonite Central Committee in France. From 1941 to 1946 he was assistant treasurer of Mennonite Central Committee in Akron, Pa.

From 1946 to 1980 he served at the MBM headquarters in Elkhart, first in hospital development, then as treasurer and secretary for health and welfare. From 1959 until his retirement, he was executive secretary.

Bennett served on the MCC executive committee for 16 years and spent 25 years as executive secretary of Mennonite Health Assembly. From 1981 to 1990 he was executive secretary of Mennonite Health Association.

He was a member of Prairie Street Mennonite Church.

He is survived by a son, Ernest Dale Bennett and his wife, Millie, of Castle Rock, Colo.; two daughters, Kathy Stiffney and her husband, Rick, and Joan Yoder and her husband, Todd, all of Goshen; nine grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and a sister, Hazel Metzler. He was preceded in death by a grandson, a brother and two sisters.

From Mennonite Weekly Review
Newton, KS
Nov. 30, 2009, p. 12
Submitted by: Thelma Hoover Martin



Berthold, Micah J.
18, of Lancaster, PA died unexpectedly April 8, 2009 at LGH as a result of injuries from an automobile accident. He was born December 11, 1990, in Harrisonburg, VA, to Josef V. and Brenda L. (Wert) Berthold.

Micah was a senior at the Lancaster Mennonite High School. He enjoyed soccer, drumming, hanging out with his friends, going to church and living life to the fullest.

Survived by his parents; his brothers, Dominik and Jeremy; Paternal Grandparents, Georg and Hildegard Berthold, of Germany; Maternal Grandparents, Charles and Mildred Wert, of Lancaster; Maternal Great Grandparents, Irvin and Edna Gingrich, of New Holland, PA.

A Memorial Service was April 13, 2009 at the Lancaster Mennonite High School, Lancaster, PA. A private Interment was in the Woodward Hill Cemetery in Lancaster, PA.
Source: Lancaster OnLine April 10, 2009
Submitted by: Leon Hertzler


Birky, Neil Darin


FAIRFIELD - Neil Darin Birky, 26, of Fairfield, a business owner, died Saturday of injuries received in a road grader accident between Fairfield and Vaughn.

Visitation is 5 to 8 p.m. today at Fairfield Community Hall. His funeral is 10 a.m. Wednesday* at New Life Assembly of God Church in Choteau, with burial in the Fairfield Mennonite Church Cemetery under the direction of Gorder Funeral Home of Choteau.

Neil was born Nov. 25, 1982 in Lebanon, Ore., the son of Kenneth Dale and Lois Esther (Smucker) Birky. He was married to Starla Rodes on April 14, 2007, in Goshen, Ind.

Neil owned and operated Pro Auto and Exhaust in Vaughn.
 
He is survived by his wife, Starla (Rodes) Birky of Fairfield; a daughter, Jessi Birky of Fairfield; his parents, Kenneth and Lois Birky of Halsey, Ore.; a sister: Lisa Birky of Halsey; brothers, Kevin Birky of Elida, Ohio, Keith Birky of Brownsville, Ore., and Eric Birky of Halsey; his maternal grandmother Anna Smucker of Halsey; and paternal grandmother Priscilla Birky of Halsey.

Memorials are suggested to the Neil Birky Memorial Fund, 1st National Bank, Fairfield, MT.
 
Condolences may be posted online at www.mem.com and/or www.gftribune.com/obituaries.
 *Funeral had to be postponed a day because of a snowstorm. THM
Published in Great Falls, MT Tribune on 4/28/2009
Submitted by: Thelma Hoover Martin


Bishop, Anna Dayton, 88, of Sellersville, Bucks Co., PA died December 20, 2009 at the same place.  She was born September 30, 1921 to Robert and Rhoda Dayton.  On April 25, 1942 she was married to Vernon Bishop who was born April 4, 1921 and died February 26, 1998.

Surviving are children, James Bishop, Robert Bishop, Eric Bishop, Michael Bishop, Rebecca Swartzendruber, 12 grandchildren, and 5 great-grandchildren.

Memorial services were held December 22, 2009 at Blooming Glen Mennonite Church Blooming Glen, PA with burial in the adjoining cemetery.

Submitted by: Blooming Glen Mennonite Church
Edited by: Thelma Hoover Martin



Bixler, Susannah Rose
, 6 days, of Harrisonburg died March 26, 2009 at Winchester, VA due to a premature birth.  She was born March 20, 2009 at Harrisonburg, Va to Benjamin and Sarah (Gehman) Bixler.

Surviving are her parents and a brother, Calvin Bixler.

Memorial services were held March 29, 2009 at Zion Mennonite Church, Broadway, VA.

Submitted by: Administrative Assistant
Zion Mennonite Church, Broadway, VA
Edited by: Thelma Hoover Martin
--------------

Bixler, Susannah Rose, 6 days, died March 26, 2009 at Winchester Medical Center. She was born on March 20, 2009 in Harrisonburg, VA to Benjamin and Sarah Gehman Bixler of Harrisonburg. Surviving in addition to her parents are one brother, Calvin Lowell Bixler; grandparents, Lee and Mary Bixler, York Springs, PA, David and Lois Gehman, Parkesburg, PA; great grandparents, Anna Martin, Manheim PA, and John and Esther Wolgemuth, Lancaster PA. A Service was March 29, 2009, at Zion Mennonite Church, Harrisonburg, VA Conducted  by Pastor Clyde Kratz.
Source: Obituary files of McMullen Funeral Home, Inc., Harrisonburg, VA
Submitted by: Leon Hertzler



Blosser, Virgil Lamar        

October 19, 1922-July 13, 2009

Virgil Lamar Blosser was born on October 19, 1922 to Russell and Pearl Bolinger) Blosser on their farm near Wakarusa, IN.  Virgil was the oldest of three hildren and was later joined by his brother Raymond and his sister Harriet.  His father Russell was a farmer, who raised oats, wheat and corn on 160 acres using horses to do the plowing, plus chickens, hogs and dairy cattle.  His mother Pearl was a housewife.  Virgil and his brother and sister learned to work hard, as everyone was needed to help with the work.

Virgil attended Morningstar School in Harrison Township in Elkhart County and Holdeman Mennonite Church.  He was active in Sunday school, accepted Jesus Christ as his personal savior and was baptized on February 3, 1935 at age 13.  He left school before graduating to help his Dad with the farm work.

During World War II, Virgil and his brother were initially deferred from service because they helped their Dad with farming.  However, some people complained to the Draft Board.  The Draft Board ruled that one of the Blosser boys had to go serve as Conscientious objectors in Civilian Public Service and Virgil was chosen to go.    

Virgil left Goshen for Hill City, South Dakota by train where he spent six months building an earthen dam to provide water for Rapid City, SD and irrigation for farmers.  Next he was shipped to Cleveland, Ohio where he worked at a mental hospital for 9 months.  From there he was sent to Powellsville, Maryland, where he spent 18 months helping to clear swamp land which was to be used for farming.  

Following the war, Virgil returned home to help his Dad with farming.  He also attended "Literary" meetings for area Mennonite youth, where he met Lois Rheinheimer.  He had to work up the courage to ask her out, but she said yes.  They fell in love and were married on November 6, 1948 at Lois' home church, Middlebury Mennonite Church, Middlebury, IN.  

Virgil and Lois bought a farm on the corner of County Road 30 and CR 11, where they raised oats, corn, wheat and soybeans and started their family.  They were blessed with two sons, Glenn who was born in May 1951 and Sheldon, born in January 1954.  Living so close to Yellow Creek Mennonite Church, they decided to join there.  They transferred their memberships from their home churches on February 28, 1954.

In addition to farming, Virgil worked at Traveler Yellowstone Coach for six years.  After that, he helped Franklin Newcomer get Fan Coach started and spent six years there.

In 1960, he started Blosser Egg Farm.  He bought 17,000 laying hens and started an egg route, delivering eggs to Greencroft when it first opened and Peddler's Village for 16 years; with 37 years of local delivery in total.  Virgil and Lois worked from dawn to dusk on the farm and expected hard work from their sons as well.  However, Virgil and Lois always took their sons on a two week vacation, just before school started and visited many of the national parks.  In his leisure time at home, Virgil enjoyed hunting, fishing and camping.  

In his early retirement years, Virgil and Lois did extensive traveling and volunteering.

A very significant trip was to Europe in 1980 to visit Holland, Switzerland, and Germany, the home of their ancestors.  In his later years, he and Lois spent many weekends camping at Twin Mills Campground.   Virgil also liked to watch the news, listen to the police scanner, shop for bargains, eat out, and play Bingo.  He read his Bible faithfully and studied his Sunday school lesson, anticipating weekly worship and Sunday school with his church family.  

Two years ago, Virgil moved off the farm and into Evergreen Place at Greencroft.  When he had to give up driving, he continued to get about by golf cart and the Greencroft bus.  At Evergreen, they lovingly called him "trouble" because he loved to tease the staff and other residents.  He remained active and continued faithfully attending worship at Yellow Creek until just a few months ago.

After several months in the hospital and rehab, Virgil died of congestive heart failure on July 13, 2009, at 4:20 pm at Elkhart General Hospital. He went to be with the Lord, surrounded by his loving sons, Glenn, Sheldon and Bea, sister-in-law Esther Hoover, and niece Rosalie Tope.  

Virgil was preceded in death by his wife Lois on December 30, 2003, his parents and his brother Raymond.  

He is survived by his sister Harriet, Mrs. Bob Bontrager of Shipshewana, his two sons, Glenn and his wife Denise Blosser of Niagara, Wisconsin, and Sheldon and Bea Blosser, who live on the home farm.

He is also survived by five grandchildren, and eight great grandchildren.

Virgil was also blessed with many brothers and sisters-in-law and nieces and nephews.

Praise be to God for his faithfulness to Virgil through every season of his life and for Virgil's earnest desire to follow Jesus in his daily life.   

Submitted by: Katie Cunningham
Yellow Creek Mennonite Church, Goshen, IN


Bontrager, Anna Yoder,
83, of Sarasota, FL formerly of Shipshewana, IN. died May 2, 2009 at Sunnyside Village Sarasota, FL. She was born August 20, 1925 in LaGrange County, IN, to Milo and Polly (Bontrager) Yoder. On September 6, 1945 in  LaGrange County she married Edwin J. Bontrager, he survives.

She was a member of the Bethel Mennonite Church, Sarasota, Fl. and an associate member of the Forks Mennonite Church, Middlebury, IN.

Survivied by her husband and three sons, Thomas (Julie) Bontrager of Carmel, IN, Mervin (Kathy) Bontrager of Middlebury, IN., J. Mark (Phyllis) Bontrager of Shipshewana, IN.; four daughters, Polly Anna Bontrager of LaGrange, IN, Esther (David) Wenger of Shipshewana, IN., Elizabeth (Alvin) Schneider of McGaheysville, VA, Kathy (Jack) Yoder of Angola, IN; 13 Grandchildren, 9 Great Grandchildren, a brother, Samuel (Frieda) Yoder of Nashwauk, MN; a sister, Edna Mae (Henry) Yoder of Goshen, IN.

She was preceded in death by parents and 3 brothers, Joe, Ervin and Reuben Yoder, 5 sisters, infants, Fanny, Susan, Barbara and Katie Yoder and Lizzie Bontrager.

Funeral service was May 8, 2009 at Forks Mennonite Church Middlebury, IN. conducted by Rev. Adin Miller. Burial was in Bontrager Cemetery, Middlebury, IN

Source: Obit files of Miller-Stewart Funeral Home, Middlebury, IN
Submitted by: Leon Hertzler, 9/01/2009



Bontrager, Caroline Jennifer
was stillborn on August 27, 2009 at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics. She was the daughter of Derek and Nici (Beachy) Bontrager.

She is survived by her parents, grandparents, Gene and Judy Bontrager, Roy and Janet Beachy all of Kalona, IA and great grandmothers, Evelyn Bell of Mt. Plesant, IA, Nina Bontrager Yoder and Bernince Miller of Kalona, IA.

She was preceded in death by great grandparents, Willie and Helen Beachy, Pearl Septer, Wayne Miller and Vernon Bontrager.

Memorial services was "Private" on August 29, 2009 at the Peterseim Funeral Home Kalona, IA with Pastor Jay Miiller presiding. [Pastor Miller is at East union Mennonite Church, Kalona, IA]   
Obit files of Peterseim Funeral home, Kalona, IA
Submitted by: Leon Hertzler



Bontrager, Edward

Oct. 27, 1935-Dec. 31, 2009

CUMBERLAND FURNACE, Tenn. - Edward Bontrager, 74, died Thursday, Dec. 31, at NHC.

He is survived by his father, Ira J. Bontrager, LaGrange, Ind.; two sons, Phillip Bontrager, Charlotte, Tenn., and Paul Bontrager, Williamsburg, Va.; four daughters, Sovilla Ashton, Jeffersonville, Ind., Rebecca Langley, Cumberland Furnace, Kay Ann Vaughn, Charlestown, Ind., and Meda Gary, Jeffersonville, Ind.; a brother, Gerald Bontrager, Elkhart, Ind.; a sister, Rosanna Tetzloff, LaGrange, Ind.; 13 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Josephine Bontrager, and his mother, Martha Petersheim Bontrager.

Visitation will be from 4 to 8 p.m. Friday and also on Saturday from 10 a.m. until the 2 p.m. funeral service at the chapel of Spann Funeral Home, with Bro. Thomas Byler officiating.

Interment will be in Plainview Cemetery.

The Goshen News, Goshen, IN
January 5, 2010
Submitted by: Thelma Hoover Martin



Bontrager, Josephine M. Yoder

CUMBERLAND FURNACE, Tenn.- Josephine M. Bontrager, 73, died Wednesday [March 11, 2009] at her home.

Visitation will be today from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Spann Funeral Home, Dickson, Tenn., where the funeral will take place at 2 p.m.

Burial will be in Plainview Cemetery, Slayden, Tenn.

She was married to Edward Bontrager, who survives, with two sons, Phillip Bontrager, Charlotte, Tenn., and Paul Bontrager, Williamsburg, Va.; and four daughters, Sovilla Ashton, Jeffersonville, Ind., Rebecca Langley, Cumberland Furnace, Tenn., Kay Vaughn, Charlestown, Ind., and Meda Gary, Jeffersonville, Ind.; three brothers, Amzi Yoder, Albuquerque, N.M., Chris Yoder, Tampa, Fla., and Milo Yoder, Chicago, Ill.; five sisters, Leah Strouse, Soudertown, Pa., Martha Miller, Partridge, Kan., Rosa Shetler, Millersburg, Ind., Betty Kendall, Lakeview Ind., and her twin sister, Anna Mast, Linn Grove, Ind.; 13 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Milo and Elizabeth (Schwartz) Yoder.

Memorials may be made to the Nashville Rescue Mission.

Goshen News, Goshen, IN
March 13, 2009
Submitted by: Thelma Hoover Martin



Bontrager, Mahlon
, 78, of Bradenton, FL, died January 30,2009. He was born to John I. and Barbara Bontrager. Survived by his loving companion of 32 years, Sue Farence, sisters Edna (Detwiler) Coblentz, Ida Herschberger, and Lydia Mae Kauffman. A brother, Lee Bontrager.

Preceded in death by his parents,four brothers, Perry, Harley, Harry, Mel; four sisters, Katie Ann, Laura, Anna, and Rosa.

A memorial service was  March 29, 2009 at First Mennonite Church, Middlebury, IN.
Source: obituary files of Miller-Stewart Funeral Home, Middlebury, IN
Submitted by: Leon Hertzler


Bontrager, Merlin "Merle" Lee, Sr.
, 77, of Sarasota, FL died July 8, 2009 at the same place suddenly in his sleep.  He was born September 23, 1931 at Yoder, KS to Levi and Elva (Miller) Brontrager.  On March 13, 1955 in Hartville, OH he was married to Mary Kurtz, who survives.

Surviving are three daughters, Glenda (Bert) Yoder of Hartville, OH; Charlene
(Pat) Pillot; & LuAnn (Mike) Mayer; and one son, Merlin (Daphne) Bontrager, Jr. all of Sarasota, FL, seven grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, three brothers, Harley, Ray, and Alvin, all of Sarasota, and two sisters, Mae Plank of
Sarasota and Violetta Beiler of Belhaven, NC.

They moved to Sarasota on Nov. 1, 1976, where he worked in lawn maintenance.
He and his wife, Mary were married 54 years.

Memorial services were held at Shore Mennonite Church, Sarasota, FL with burial in Sunny Side Cemetery, Sarasota, FL.

Submitted by: Unknown
Edited by: Thelma Hoover Martin



Bontreger, Andrew F.


Andrew F. Bontreger, 85, of Arcola passed away at 12:05 p.m. Sunday, March 15, 2009, at his residence.

Funeral services were held this morning (Wednesday) at the Otto Center in rural Arthur with Bishop David Otto officiating. Burial was in Otto Cemetery, rural Arthur. Visitation was anytime after 10 a.m. on Tuesday at the Otto Center. Edwards Funeral Home assisted the family with funeral arrangements.

Mr. Bontreger was born August 9, 1923, in Douglas County. He was a son of Fred and Lydia (Miller) Bontreger. He married Minerva Yutzy on August 31, 1944, in Douglas County. They lived in matrimony for 64 years. She survives.

Also surviving are a son, Toby Bontreger of Arthur; seven daughters, Verna Otto and husband Lewis of Arthur, Rosie Bontrager and husband Howard of Goshen, Indiana, Lucy Chupp and husband Olen of Arthur, Mary Whitley of Atwood, Lorene Helmuth and husband Darrell of Arthur, Julie Yoder and husband Joseph of Arcola, and Rose Anna Bontreger of Arthur; a brother, Clarence Bontreger of Arthur; a sister, Mary Ann Welsh of Arthur; 24 grandchildren; and 38 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a son, Willis Bontreger; a daughter, Dorothy Mast; a son-in-law, Lynn Mast; three grandchildren, Tony Bontreger, Inez Bontrager, and Nichole Whitley; six brothers, Joseph, Eli, Jonas, Alvin, Jake, and Mose Bontreger; and two sisters, Martha Joyce and Tillie Borntreger.

Mr. Bontreger was a member of the old order Amish. He was a farmer all his life and had a real passion for a good horse. He especially enjoyed a good laugh while sharing a fun memory.
Arthur Graphic-Clarion, Arthur, IL
March 18, 2009
Submitted by: Liz Kauffman, Arcola, IL
Transcribed by: Thelma Hoover Martin



Boshart, Walter Lorain,
96, of Goshen, IN died February 27, 2009 at Greencroft Healthcare. He was born May 30, 1912 in Wayland, IA to Amos and Abbie (Scott) Boshart. He married Beverly Miller in 1999. He was a member of Eighth Street Mennonite Church, Goshen IN.

Survived by his wife and daughter, Jean (William) Stucky of Goshen, IN; two sons, James (Betty Jo) Boshart of Atoka, TN, and Richard (Cathy) Boshart of Lebanon, PA; one stepson, Lane Lewallen of Wheatland, IN; and one brother, Edwin (Ruth) Boshart of Shaumburg, IL.

Walter was preceded in death by his first wife Maritta and second wife Ferne; one sister, Constance Wainwright; and two brothers, Maurice and Robert Boshart. A memorial service was held March 2, 2009 at Yoder-Culp Funeral Home. Rev. Brenda Sawatsky Paetkau of Eighth Street Mennonite Church officiated.A private burial will precede the service in Forrest Grove Cemetery in Middlebury, IN
Source: Obituary files of Yoder-Culp Funeral Home, Goshen, IN
Submitted by: Leon Hertzler, Newport, NH



Brackbill, Norman W.
82, of Lancaster, PA  (formerly of Ronks, PA) died September 18, 2009 at Hospice of Lancaster County, Mount Joy, PA. He was born in East Lampeter Twp., Lancaster Co., PA to Parke and Anna Witmer Brackbill. He and his wife, Alma Myers Brackbill, were married for 60 years. Norman was a member of Mellinger Mennonite Church Lancaster, PA. He was a truck driver for Nolt's Mill, retiring in 2007.

Survived by his wife and a daughter Joanne Diaco of Ephrata, PA; a son, Kenneth R. husband of Jana Brackbill of Simpsonville, SC; 5 grandchildren; 7 great-grandchildren; a brother, Arthur Brackbill of the Mennonite Home.

He was preceded in death by a brother, Lester. Funeral services was September 23, 2009 at Mellinger Mennonite Church. Interment was in Mellinger Mennonite Cemetery, Lancaster, PA.

Source: LOL September 20, 2009
Submitted by: Leon Hertzler



Brallier, Mary Knepp
, 103, of Greencroft Healthcare in Goshen. died February 24, 1009
She was born on April 28, 1905 in Loogoote, Daviess County, IN to Peter and Mary (Gingerich) Knepp. She married Loren J. Brallier on March 31, 1952. He preceded her in death on June 14, 1970.

She was the longest continuous member of the North Goshen Mennonite Church. Survived by two nieces, Arline Bontrager of Goshen and Joan (Melvin) Yoder also of Goshen, IN; seven nephews, Karol (Anna) Knepp of Bristol, IN; Lamar (Marsha) Knepp of Ocala, FL, Simon (Karen) Knepp of Coldwater, MI, Hubert (Kathleen) Bontrager , Devon (Esther) Bontrager, and Mervin (Sharon) Bontrager all of Goshen, IN and Glenn (Clara) Bontrager of Venice, FL.

She is preceded in death by one sister, Ida Bontrager; three brothers, Amos Knepp, Simon Knepp, and Ora Knepp, who was killed by lightning; and three nephews, Donald Bontrager,who was killed in a truck accident, Lester Knepp, and Wilbur Knepp. A memorial service was March 3, 2009, at the North Goshen Mennonite Church with Rev. Dean Linsenmeyer officiating and assisting,Tim. Burial was in the West Goshen Cemetery, Goshen, IN
Source: Obituary files of Yoder-Culp Funeral Home, Goshen, IN
Submitted by: Leon Hertzler, Newport, NH



Brandenberger, Lloyd
, 82, of Middlebury, Elkhart County, Indiana died July 22, 2009 at Goshen, Elkhart County, Indiana from age related complications with pneumonia and Parkinson disease.  He was born November 2, 1926 at Middlebury to Noah and Matilda (Yoder) Brandenberger.  On February 25, 1951 at Nappanee, Elkhart County, Indiana he was married to Mary Jean Schrock, who died April 2, 1989.

Surviving are three daughters, Debbi (Leon) Shrock, Goshen; Jeanne Brandenberger, Elkhart; and Joan (Bruce) Peterson of Amherst, Ohio; one son, Steven (Cathy) Brandenberger, Middlebury; 7 grandchildren, 1 great-grandchild, and two sisters, Bertha (Paul) Schmucker, Nappanee; and Florence (Walter)
Hochstedler, Goshen.

Three sisters, Luella, Christner, Nora Dupree and Mary Schmucker preceded him in death.

Lloyd was a farmer and lifelong resident of the area, and a member of
Clinton Frame Mennonite Church

Memorial services were held July 26, 2009 at Clinton Frame Mennonite Church, Goshen, Indiana with burial in Clinton Union Cemetery, Goshen, Indiana.

Submitted by: Karen Troyer, Goshen, Indiana
Edited by: Thelma Hoover Martin



Breighner, Mary K. Keeport
, 89, formerly of Indian Run Rd., Millersville, died November 7, 2009 at Moravian Manor.  She was born November 29, 1919 in Lancaster, PA to David B. and Ada Matilda (Groff) Keeport. She was preceded in death by her husband, Rudolph S. Breighner, and her stepson, Robert S. Breighner.

She was a member of Masonville Mennonite Church. She stood on Central Market for most of her life, and enjoyed the time she spent there.

Mary is survived by her stepdaughter: Joyce Stekervetz; her daughter-in-law: Naomi Breighner; 6 step grandchildren, 17 step great grandchildren, and 21 step great great grandchildren.

Funeral services was November 11, 2009, at Masonville Mennonite Church, Washington Boro, PA with Rev. Robert Kanagy and Rev. Wilmer Eby officiating. Burial will follow the service at Millersville Mennonite Cemetery, Millersville, PA.   
Source:  LOL November 10, 2009
Submitted by: Leon Hertzler



Breneman, John R.
90, of Lititz, PA died June 23, 2009 at the Heart of Lancaster Regional Medical Center in Lititz, PA. He was born March 20, 1919, in Strasburg Twp., Lancaster Co., PA, to Harry and Anna (Ranck) Breneman. He was married to Ruth E. (Hess) Breneman on April 1, 1945.

From 1941 to 1946 he served in civilian public service in Virginia and Western PA. From 1946 to 1971. He was also a member of New Danville Mennonite Church.

Surviving is his wife and two foster sons, Steven J. O'Connell, husband of Joan, of Urbana, IL and Randy P. O'Connell of New Providence, PA; six grandchildren; eight great grandchildren and a brother, Pastor Robert A. Breneman, husband of Mabel, of Strasburg, PA. He was preceded in death by a brother, C. Henry Breneman. Funeral Service was June 27, 2009 be held at New Danville Mennonite Church, with his brother, Pastor Robert A. Breneman and Pastor Curtiss L. Kanagy officiating. Interment was in the New Danville Mennonite Cemetery, Lancaster, PA.
Source: Lancaster On Line June 29, 2009
Submitted by: Leon Hertzler, 9/01/2009


Brenneman, Anna E. Deiter
, 76, Lampeter, PA died September 23, 2009. She was born February 16, 1933, in West Lampeter Twp., Lancaster Co., PA to Frank and Esther (Witmer) Deiter. She was the wife of Wilmer K. Brenneman with whom she was married 52 years. A member of the Lyndon Mennonite Church. Anna was a prayer warrior and enjoyed sharing Jesus with others. Survived by her husband are three children, Elaine Brenneman, of Lampeter, PA; David Brenneman married to Naomi (Souders), of Lancaster, PA; Glenn Brenneman married to Caroline (Weaver), of Lititz, PA; four grandchildren, Janelle, Rachel, Justin and Jonathan and five siblings, Robert Deiter married to Mary, of Lancaster, PA; Paul Deiter, of Washington Boro, PA; Elvin Deiter married to Anna Mae, of Dover, PA;  A. Irene Deiter and Joyce married to Earl Livengood, all of Lancaster, PA. She was preceded in death by a brother, Mervin Deiter, and sisters-in-law, Kathryn Deiter, Esther Deiter and Irene Deiter.

Funeral Service was September 28, 2009 at the New Danville Mennonite Church, Interment  was in New Danville Mennonite Cemetery, Lancaster, PA.

Source: LOL September 24, 2009
Lancaster, PA
Submitted by: Leon Hertzler



Brockmueller, Gordon Lee
, 74, of Freeman died March 7, 2009 at Freeman, Hutchinson Co., SD.  He was born June 29, 1943 in Hutchinson County, SD to Elias and Lillie (Waltner) Brockmueller.  On June 25, 1954 at Freeman, SD he was married to Shirley Waltner, who was born July 9, 1935 and survives.

Surviving are children, Lee (Marilyn) Brockmueller, Cindee (Tom) Evenson, Joseph (Betty)Brockmueller, Suzanne (Todd) Koerner, 11 grandchildren, one great-grandchild and three sisters, Vivian (Glenn) Gering, Cleo Friesen, and Joyce (Jim) Wipf.

During 1957-1961 he served with his wife Shirley in Viet Nam with International
Voluntary Service, in 1962-1965 he worked with the IVS recruiting office in
Washington D.C. and in 1965-1970 in Food for Peace as an officer with the US Foreign Aid program in Algeria and Tunisia.  He returned to the family farm in 1970 where he remained until his death.  He raised certified oat seed and had a
passion for raising purebred registered Shorthorns.  He served on the Board
of Directors of Freeman Junior College and Academy for 20 years. Along with his wife Shirley, he established a scholarship fund with MMA for Freeman Academy students. Important to Gordon were the relationships that had developed through his years of service.

Memorial services were held March 10, 2009 at Salem Mennonite Church Freeman, Hutchinson, SD with burial in the adjoining cemetery.

Submitted by: Unknown
Edited by: Thelma Hoover Martin



Brubacker, Leah Nolt Zimmerman

MILLMONT - Leah Nolt Brubacker, 72, of 556 Kaiser Run Road, entered into rest on Thursday, March 5, 2009, at 4:45 a.m. at her residence after an illness for the past three weeks. She had resided in Lewis Township, Union County since 1961 and formerly resided at Ephrata Rural Route.  She was born Dec. 18, 1936, in West Earl Township, Lancaster County, a daughter of the late Daniel Hess and Minnie (Burkholder) Nolt Zimmerman. She was united in marriage in West Earl Township on Nov. 20, 1958 to Milton Lehman Brubacker who passed away on Feb. 18, 2004.

Leah attended the Metzler's School in West Earl Township in her youth. While residing in Lancaster County, she was a member of the Bowmansville Old Order Mennonite Church and of the Conestoga Old Order Mennonite Church. Since residing in Union County, she was a member of the Mountain View Old Order Mennonite Church, Millmont.

Leah is survived by the following children and their spouses, Anna Z. Brubacker of Mifflinburg, Alta Z and Harry L. Oberholtzer of Millmont, George Z. and Nancy L. Brubacker of Liberty, Ky., James Z. and Susanna N. Brubacker of Millmont, Amos Z. and Elva H. Brubacker of Middleburg, Elam Z. and Maria H. Brubacker of Mifflinburg, Samuel Z. and Martha B. Brubacker of Dundee, N.Y., Lucy Z. and Curvin S. Hoover of Lewisburg, David Z. and Mabel Jane Brubacker of Himrod,
N.Y., Levi Z. and Lauretta L. Brubacker of Millmont, and Christian Z. and Wilma S. Brubacker of Lewisburg; 43 grandchildren; six great-granddaughters and three great-grandsons; her siblings and their spouses, Adin N. and Alice L. Zimmerman of Millmont, her twin sister, Anna N. and Amos H. Burkholder of Liberty, Ky., Nora N. Zimmerman of Alymer, Canada, Lena N. and Phares M. Reiff of Lewisburg, Eli N. and Sarah H. Zimmerman of Liberty, Ky.; and her sister-in-law, Hettie M. Zimmerman of Ephrata.

She was preceded in death by her brother, Enos N. Zimmerman in 2002, a grandson, Timothy B. Hoover in 1995, and two sisters who died in infancy.

Funeral services will be held at 9 a.m. Monday at the Brubacker residence, 556 Kaiser Run Road, Millmont and at 9:30 a.m. at the Mountain View Old Order Mennonite Church, 274 Kaiser Run Road, Millmont. Officiating will be Bishop Levi N. Martin, Bichop Esra M. Zimmerman, Phares L. Zimmerman and Amos W. Nolt.

Visitors will be received by the family from 2 to 4 p.m. and from 6 to 8 p.m. Sunday at the Brubacker residence, and prior to the time of service.  Serving as pall bearers will be: Cleason O. Brubacker, Clement O. Brubacker, Matthew M. Brubacker, Milton O. Brubacker, Curvin R. Oberholtzer and Edwin R. Oberholtzer.
The family is being served by the Schwartz-Adamo Funeral and Cremation Service, 247 Chestnut St., Mifflinburg.
Source: Sunbury Daily Item - 3/6/2009
Submitted by: Robert Fish




Brubaker, Amon S.


Amon S. Brubaker, 84, of Ephrata Manor, died Monday, February 2, 2009 at Ephrata Community Hospital. His wife, Nora (Stauffer) Brubaker, died November 7, 2008. 
Born in Jackson Twp., Lebanon, PA, he was a son of the late Aaron and Rebecca Sensenig Brubaker. Employed at Terre Hill Silo and later at the former Sperry
New Holland, he retired in 1985 and then worked as a parts delivery man for NAPA until 2000.

He was a member of the Mohler Church of the Brethren where he was a trustee in his earlier years. He enjoyed fishing and woodworking.

Surviving are 3 sons: Gene L. (Donna Fry) of Petersburg, PA, Kurtis L. (Lue Ann Stull) of Denver, Randall K. (Ann Marie Hetrick) Brubaker of Narvon; 2
daughters: Gloria F. (Roy) Kunkle of Mohnton, and Anita K. (Daniel) Ellenberger of Stevens; 19 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren; 2 brothers: Titus Brubacher of Port Trevorton, PA, and Luke Brubacher of Ephrata, and a sister, Anne (Clarence) Martin of Ephrata. He was preceded in death by brothers: Harvey, Leroy, a twin Amos, Phares, Rufus, and Aaron, and sisters: Martha Martin and Katie Gehman.

Funeral: Saturday, February 7, 2009 at 11:00 AM at Mohler Church of the Brethren, 21 E. Mohler Church Rd., Ephrata, PA 17522. There will be a viewing at the church on Friday from 6-8:00 PM and on Saturday from 10-11:00 AM.
Intelligencer Journal - 2/3/2009
Lancaster, PA
Submitted by: Robert Fish


Brubaker, Ezra G.
, 99, formerly of Lititz, PA died April 4, 2009 at Fairmount Homes, Ephrata, PA He was born in Manheim Twp. Lancaster Co., PA, to Jacob S. and Anna Mae Garber Brubaker. Ezra was the husband of the late Esther Shenk Brubaker who died in 2003. He was a member of Landis Valley Mennonite Church, Lancaster, PA.

Surviving are two sons: Charles S., husband of Chizuko Brubaker of Camden, DE, Glenn S., husband of Vickie Brubaker of Elverson, PA, four grandchildren, three great grandchildren, and a brother, Elwood Brubaker of East Petersburg. He was preceded in death by a son, Richard S. Brubaker, four sisters: Elizabeth Esbenshade, Ethel Brubaker, Anna Mae Sauder, Ruth Brubaker, and two brothers: Henry and Paul Brubaker.

Funeral service was April 9, 2009 at the Landis Valley Mennonite Church, Lancaster, PA Interment was in Landisville Mennonite Cemetery, Landisville, PA,

Source: Lancaster OnLine April 7, 2009
Submitted by: Leon Hertzler
----------------

Brubaker, Ezra Garber
, 99, of Lititz, PA died April 4, 2009 in Ephrata, PA.  He was born July 16 1909 in Lancaster County, PA to Jacob S. and Anna  Mae (Garber) Brubaker.  He was married to Esther Shenk, who died in 2003.

Surviving are two sons, Charles S & Chizuko Brubaker, Glenn S. & Vickie Brubaker, 4 grandchildren, 3 great-grandchildren, and a brother, Elwood Brubaker.

A son, Richard S. Brubaker, four sisters, Elizabeth Esbenshade, Ethel Brubaker, Anna Mae Sauder, and Ruth Brubaker, and two brothers, Henry Brubaker, and Paul Brubaker preceded him in death.

Memorial services were held April 9, 2009 at Landis Valley Mennonite Church, Lancaster, PA with burial in Landisville Mennonite Cemetery, Landisville, PA.

Submitted by: Mary Smith, Intercourse, PA
Edited by: Thelma Hoover Martin



Brubaker, Irma Schwartz Clemenson, Kopf


Brubaker, Irma S. 94, died Tuesday, June 30, 2009 at Landis Homes, Lititz, PA. She was born in Philadelphia, PA to John and Anna Schwartz. Her first husband was Edwin Clemenson of Mamora, N.J., her second husband, George Kopf. Of Speculator, N.Y. Upon his death, Irma moved to Strasburg, PA; In December 1972 she married Harry F. Brubaker, of Lancaster, PA. A gifted musician, Irma enjoyed playing the piano in many churches. A former member of Strasburg Mennonite Church, Irma was a member of Farm Women #14 Society and a Gideon. She and Harry retired to Landis Homes in 1988 where she was well known for her piano playing. She later joined Calvary Church.

Survived by niece and nephew, Mae Snowden (MN.) and Frank Schwartz (FL) Irma was stepmother to Dolores B. Buckwalter (Harold), Lititz, PA Rev. Jere Brubaker (Julia) and Dwight H. Brubaker (Sandra), both of Lancaster, PA. She was predeceased by two stepdaughters, Sara Jane Lowery (Paul) and Nancy MacKilligan (Bruce). There are 17 step-grandchildren and 40 step-great grandchildren. A memorial/concert was July 4, 2009 at West Bethany Chapel at Landis Homes , Lititz, PA,Interment will be in Tuckahoe, N.J.   
Source: Lancaster On Line July 1, 2009
Submitted by: Leon Hertzler, 9/01/2009


Brubaker, Marlin R
. 83, of Quarryville, Pa, died April 4, 2009 at the Quarryville Presbyterian Retirement Community. He was born July 4, 1925 in Lancaster, PA to John S. and Mary Kreider Brubaker. He was married to Gladys Landis Brubaker they had 62 years of marriage.

He was a member of Mechanic Grove Mennonite Church where he had served as trustee and Sunday School Superintendent. He was a member of Partners in Evangelism, an organization involved in church planting in Alabama.

Survied by his wife and two sons, James R., husband of Glenda Smoker Brubaker, and M. Ray, husband of Phyllis Craul Brubaker, both of Quarryville, PA; four daughters, Velma E., wife of Linford Good, Lancaster, PA; Carol J., wife of Larry Burkhart, Quarryville, PA; Gayle M., wife of Daniel Hershberger, Quarryville, PA and Joyce A., wife of Gordon Herr, Linden, WI; 21 grandchildren, 6 great grandchildren; a brother, J. David Brubaker, Lancaster, PA and a sister, Verna Hess, Snyder Co., PA.

He was predeceased in death by two sisters, Anna Mary Brubaker and Edna Hostetter.

Funeral service was April 9, 2009 at 10:00 AM at the Mechanic Grove Church of the Brethren, Quarryville, PA. Interment in the Mechanic Grove Mennonite Cemetery.
Source: Lancaster OnLine April 6, 2009
Submitted by: Leon Hertzler



Brubaker, Minnie S.
, 89, of 316 N. 5th St., Denver, formerly of 1640 Ligalaw Road, East Earl, died Monday, March 9, 2009 at Fairmount Homes after a brief illness.

Born in East Earl Twp., she was the daughter of the late Daniel E. and Maggie M. (Shirk) Brubaker. She was a homemaker and a member of the Churchtown Mennonite Church, Groffdale Conference.

Surviving are four sisters, Martha S., married to Levi Martin of Morgantown, Lizzie S. Sensenig of Mifflinburg, Anna Newswanger of East Earl, and Mabel Hursh of New Holland; a brother, John, married to Alta (Zimmerman) Brubaker of Mohnton; and two sisters-in-law, Beatrice Brubaker of New Holland, and Edna Brubaker of Denver.

Preceding her in death are four brothers, Menno, Amos, Eli, and Wayne Brubaker; and two sisters, Ada and Katie Brubaker.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, March 13, at 9 a.m. at the home of Mrs. Wayne Newswanger, 1890 Agape Ct., East Earl, with further services at 9:45 at the Weaverland Mennonite Church with the Bishop Titus Martin officiating. Interment in the adjoining cemetery.

Viewing will be held on Thursday at Mrs. Wayne Newswanger residence from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Kindly omit flowers. Arrangements by Eckenroth Home for Funerals, Terre Hill, PA 17543. The Groff-High Funeral Home, New Holland is in charge of
arrangements.
Source: Intelligencer Journal - 3/10/2009
Submitted by: Robert Fish



Brubaker, Raymond Musser
was born to Raymond Root Brubaker and Maude Burkholder (Musser) on May 14, 1927 in Lancaster County. He was married to Mary Ellen (Herr) on September 2, 1951.

He worked as a dairy farmer and homebuilder in Lancaster County. He served in the US Army 1945-1946, in the Occupation of Japan. Raymond and Mary Ellen served with Mennonite Voluntary Service in Reedley, CA, in the early 1950's. After retirement, he spent time as a development worker in Uganda with Mennonite Central Committee.

His wife, Mary Ellen, and his brother, Carl Brubaker, preceded him in death.

He is survived by two sisters, Aileen Bender, Lancaster, and Barbara Snyder, Holtwood, and five children, Susan Ellen, wife of Glen Greenwald, Prescott, AZ; Simeon Raymond, husband of Heidi (Hanson), Salem, OR; Sarah Grace, Lewistown; Seth Joseph, Kansas City, MO; and Sharon Rose, Phoenix, AZ. There are six grandchildren.

He obtained his associate degree in Geology from Yavapai College, Prescott, AZ later in his life. He was a world traveler, avid hiker, and enjoyed studying Geology. He was involved in the Mile High Square Dancers, Prescott. He was married to Bonnie Rae Wettig from 1987 to 2000.

An Appreciation Reception in remembrance of the life of Raymond Brubaker will held summer 2009 in Prescott.
Intelligencer Journal - 1/23/2009
Lancaster, PA
Submitted by: Robert Fish



Brubaker, Ricky


MOUNT PLEASANT MILLS - Ricky Brubaker, infant son of Roger M. and Joanne (Martin) Brubaker, of Mount Pleasant Mills, was silently born on Tuesday, May 12, 2009.

In addition to his parents, he is survived by his paternal grandparents, Melvin and Ellen Brubaker, of Port Trevorton; paternal great-grandmother, Lizzie Martin, of New Holland; maternal grandparents, Harvey and Gladys Martin, of Port Trevorton; maternal great-grandmother, Lydia Stauffer, of Port Trevorton; and many uncles, aunts and cousins.

A private graveside service will be conducted in Riverview Mennonite Cemetery, Old Trail Road and Oriental Road, Liverpool.

The George P. Garman Funeral Homes Inc. 9366 Route 35, Mount Pleasant Mills, is assisting the family.
Sunbury Daily Item - 5/13/2009
Submitted by: Robert Fish



Brubaker, Wayne S.
77, of New Holland, PA, died February 11, 2009. He was born in East Earl Twp. Lancaster Co., PA to Daniel and Maggie (Shirk) Brubaker. He is survived by his wife, Beatrice (Good) Brubaker. They were married for 53 years. He was a member of Goodville Mennonite Church, Goodville, PA.

Survied by his wife, and sons: Ted married to Brenda (Gockley) Brubaker, Red Run, PA; Lee married to Bonnie (Hammond) Brubaker, East Earl, PA; and Ray married to Beth (Fenninger) Brubaker, New Holland, PA; six grandchildren; a brother, John, Bowmansville; and five sisters: Minnie, Denver, PA; Martha wife of Levi Martin, Morgantown, PA; Lizzie wife of the late Moses Sensenig, Mifflinburg, PA; Anna wife of the late Wayne Newswanger, East Earl, PA; and Mabel wife of the late William Hursh, Voganville, PA. Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by four brothers and three sisters.

Funeral service was February 14, 2009 at the Goodville Mennonite Church with Pastors Bruce Sauder and Nelson Martin and Bishop C. Kenneth Martin officiating. Interment will be in the Goodville Mennonite Cemetery Goodville, PA

Source: Lancaster OnLine February 12, 2009
Submitted by: Leon Hertzler, Newport, NH



Bruckhart, Jacob S. "Junie"
86, of Lititz, PA died July 7, 2009. Born in Elm, PA to Jacob G. and Minnie S. Shelly Bruckhart. He was married to Myrtle N. Kreider Bruckhart, and they observed their 67th wedding anniversary in April, 2009. He was a member of Erb Mennonite Church, Lititz. Jacob and his wife were members of the Manheim Area Chorus for many years.

Surviving is his wife and four sons: J. Richard husband of Lois Zeiset Bruckhart of Manheim, PA; Glenn E. Bruckhart of Danville, PA; Robert L. husband of Erma Kreider Bruckhart of Manheim, PA; Mervin L. husband of Charlene Cook Bruckhart of Lititz, PA. fifteen grandchildren, and fifteen great grandchildren.

Preceded in death by a son, David Bruckhart, and three sisters: Mary Weaver, Martha Bruckhart, and Meda Clugston. Memorial service was July 11, 2009 at Erb Mennonite Church. Interment was in Erb Mennonite cemetery, Litiz, PA.
Source: Lancaster On Line July 10, 2009
Submitted by: Leon Hertzler, 9/01/2009


Brucks, Elva Susan Lehrman
, 92, of American Falls., Power County, Idaho died October 24, 2009 at the same place from natural causes.  She was born November 21, 1916 at Dubois, Clark County, Idaho to Henry H. and Theresa (Wiebe) Lehrman.  On October 8, 1937 at Aberdeen, Bingham County, Idaho she was married to Emanuel "Monk" Brucks, who is deceased.

Surviving are children, Richard (Sheryl) and Raymond (Shirley),7 grandchildren,  11 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-grandchildren.

A daughter, Diane and a sister, Ruby preceded her in death.

Memorial services were held October 31, 2009 at First Mennonite Church, Aberdeen, Idaho with burial in Homestead Cemetery, Aberdeen, Idaho.

Submitted by: Anne Hege, Aberdeen, ID
Edited by: Thelma Hoover Martin



Brunk, Samuel "Sam" H
. 83 died November 12, 2009. He was born October 31, 1926 in Fentress, VA, to Samuel H. and Molly Brunk. He was married to Geneva Wenger Brunk of 63 years. A member of Warwick River Mennonite Church, Newport News, VA. Sam was a man of great faith and will be remembered for selflessly devoting his time and talents to helping others. He helped found the Williamsburg Christian Retreat Center

Survived by his wife Geneva and two sons, Robert Brunk (Joyce) of Williamsburg, VA and Lewis Brunk of Yorktown, VA; a daughter, Joyce Walker (Roger) of Yorktown, VA; a sister, Edith Barnes of Telford, PA; five grandchildren and five step-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers George and Dan of Newport News, and a sister Ida Mae Leatherman of Richmond.

Funeral service was November 15, 2009 at Warwick River Mennonite Church with Pastor John Dey officiating.
Source: Obit files of W. J. Smith & Son Funeral Home, Newport News, VA
Submitted by: Leon Hertzler



Bryant, Elwood
, 76, of Vauxhall, Alberta died August 27, 2009 in Lethbridge, Alberta Canada. He was born September 24, 1932 in Turin, Alberta to Sydney and Elma Bryant. He was married to Shirley Horton on September 22, 1956.

Survived by his wife Shirley and children Coreen (Terry) Unruh of Hays, Alberta; Ellen Bryant of Calgary, Alberta; Joy (Randy) Trieber of Taber Alberta and Darren (Jackie) Bryant of Lethbridge, Alberta; grandchildren Justin and Dalyce Unruh; Jordyn and Danielle Bryant; great grandchildren Branden and Payton. He is also survived by his siblings Allan Bryant, Norma (Dennis) Reynolds, Jerry (Barb) Bryant, Walter (Donna) Bryant and Ross (Colleen) Bryant; sisters-in-law Helen Bryant, Connie Bryant-Kyle and Fay Martin; aunts Verna Bryant and Ruth MacGregor as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents Sydney and Elma Bryant; brothers Vern, Ken and Harold; sister-in-law Elsie Bryant; brother-in-law Max Martin.

Funeral Service was August 31, 2009 at the Vauxhall Mennonite Brethren Church, Vauxhall, Alberta with Reverend Alana Johnson officiating. Burial to follow at the Vauxhall Cemetery.

Source: Southland Funeral Chapel Taber, Alberta
Submitted by; Leon Hertzler



Buch, Viola M. Esbenshade,
87, of Ephrata, PA died July 26, 2009 at Ephrata Community Hospital. She was born in New Holland, to Jacob and Anna Martin Esbenshade. She was the wife of Roy H. Buch for 68 years. She was a member of Metzler Mennonite Church. She attended Bethel Mennonite Church in Sarasota, FL, during the winter months.

Survived by her husband and a daughter, Janet M., wife of David Good of Elida, OH, and two sons, Richard E., husband of Kathryn (Martin) of Akron, PA and Roy E., husband of Marlene (Landis) of Ephrata, PA; twelve grandchildren and nineteen great-grandchildren. She is also survived by five sisters, Velma Weaver of Lititz, PA; Margaret, wife of Paul Wyble of New Holland, PA; Bertha Martin of Ephrata, PA; Alice, wife of Earl Horst of East Earl, PA and Anna Mary, wife of David Horst of Ephrata, PA.

Besides her parents, she was preceded in death by a brother, Aaron Esbenshade and a sister, Helen Esbenshade.

Funeral service was July 31, 2009, at Metzler Mennonite Church with Pastors D. Eugene Zoll, Nevin Horning and Lee Roy Martin officiated. Interment was in Metzler Mennonite cemetery.
Source: Lancaster On Line July 28, 2009
Submitted by: Leon Hertzler, 9/01/2009


Buckwalter, Galen N.
, 77, of Chambersburg, PA died there on February 21, 2009.  He was born September 24, 1931 at Atglen, PA to Park Leroy and Melinda (Smoker) Buckwalter.  On June 5, 1956 he was married to Gladys Lehman, who survives.

Surviving are a son, Gregg A. Buckwalter and wife Wendy, three grandchildren, and two sisters Rhoda Umble and Lila Hess.

A sister, Blanche Umble, and four brothers, John, Nathan, Nevin & Park Buckwalter, Jr. preceded him in death.

Memorial services were held February 28, 2009 at Marion Mennonite Church, Chambersburg, PA with burial in the adjoining cemetery.

Submitted by: Joyce Lehman
Edited by: Thelma Hoover Martin


Burkhart, Loretta E. Fox,
80, of New Holland, PA died on June 23, 2009 at Fairmount Homes.

Born in Reading, PA to John R. and Mary Fox. She married to James H. Burkhart for 60 years. She was member of Bowmansville Mennonite Church.

Survived by 3 sons: Larry husband of Carol Burkhart, Quarryville, PA; Robert husband of Brenda Burkhart, Ephrata, PA; Kenneth husband of Patricia Burkhart, Ephrata, PA; and 3 daughters: Joyce Nolt wife of the late John Nolt, New Holland, PA; Diane wife of Ervin Miller, Sarasota, FL; Doris wife of I. Ray Horst, New Holland, PA; 19 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren.

Funeral service was June 29, 2009 at Bowmansville Mennonite Church, Pastor Larry Weber officiated. Interment was in Bowmansville Mennonite cemetery, East Earl, PA.
Source: Lancaster On Line, June 25, 2009
Submitted by: Leon Hertzler, 9/01/2009



Burkholder, Ada M. Zuercher
,  87, of Orrville, OH died November 26, 2009, at Dunlap Community Hospital in Orrville, OH. She was born on May 16, 1922, in Orrville, to Isaac and Emma (Lehman) Zuercher, and married Elvin R. Burkholder on April 28, 1956, at the Kidron Mennonite Church. He survives.

Ada was a member of Martins Mennonite Church in Orrville where she enjoyed the women's group and sewing. She also used to sew and help with Summer Bible School at Kidron Mennonite Church. She enjoyed reading, traveling, gardening, and piecing and quilting tops for each member of her family. She most recently worked as a volunteer for M.C.C. Connections in Kidron, OH.

Survivied by her husband and a daughter, Luella (Ray) Steiner of Orrville; OH; sons, Glenn (Karen) Burkholder of Orrville, OH and Milan (Sherry) Burkholder of Dalton, OH; grandchildren, William (Erika) Steiner, Andrew (Laura) Steiner, Timothy (Angela) Steiner, Daniel (Melissa) Steiner, Melissa Burkholder, and Carl Burkholder; great grandchildren, Kason, Trisin, and Quintin Steiner; brother, Arlin (Marie) Zuercher of Orrville, OH; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Orren, Ellis, and Clayton Zuercher; and a sister, Mary Schlabach.

Funeral Services was November 30, 2009, at Martins Mennonite Church with Pastor Randy Murray officiating. Burial was at the Martins Mennonite Cemetery, Orrville, OH church cemetery.  
Source: Obit files of Auble Funeral Home, Orrville, OH.
Submitted by: Leon Hertzler


Burkholder, Annis Virginia Coakley


Annis Virginia Coakley Burkholder, 90, went to be with the Lord on Sunday, Aug. 31, 2008. She was surrounded by her children, close friends, and caregivers at her home near Keezletown [VA]. 
 
Annis was born Oct. 12, 1917, near Dayton, [VA] and was the daughter of the late Luther and Betty Wenger Coakley.  On Oct. 10, 1954, she married Clayton Byers Burkholder, who preceded her in death July 15, 1983. She is survived by a daughter, Rhoda, of Keezletown, and a son, Sam, of Harrisonburg, [VA}. She was preceded in death by a sister, Effie Coakley Crider, and a brother, Marion Coakley. 
 
She accepted Jesus as her savior at a young age, and was a member of Dayton Mennonite Church. She was known for her sweet, gentle spirit, and her love for sharing the stories and memories of her 90 years of life. She was a loving and devoted homemaker, and will be sadly missed by all who knew her. 
 
The funeral service will be held at Dayton Mennonite Church on Wednesday at 10 a.m. and burial will follow at Bethesda Mennonite Church Cemetery. Pastors James Rhodes, Daryl Driver, and Eugene King will be officiating. Pallbearers will be Jay Moyer, Eugene and Sheldon King, James Kent, Samuel Witmer, and Bill Neely. 
 
The family will receive friends from 7-8 p.m. Tuesday at Dayton Mennonite Church.  Memorial contributions may be made to Dayton Mennonite Church, P.O. Box 401, Dayton, VA, 22821. 
Daily News-Record, Harrisonburg, VA, September 2, 2008
Submitted by: Virginia Minnich, Harrisonburg, VA



Burkholder, Amber Makiah

Amber Makiah Burkholder, 3 months old daughter of Clinton and Grace (Weaver) Burkholder of 189 Spring Grove Road, East Earl, died Saturday, January 10, 2009 at her home of Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA).

Surviving in addition to her parents are three siblings, Kimberly W., Benjamin W., and Jannalyn G. Burkholder; paternal grandparents, Walter B. and Martha
(Good) Burkholder of New Holland; maternal grandparents, Harvey and Anna (Rissler) Weaver of Fivepointville; and a paternal great grandmother, Nora (Burkholder) Burkholder of Ephrata.

Preceding her in death is a brother, Seth C. Burkholder in 2003 from SMA; and three brothers and a sister all miscarriages, Jasper Rose, Reed, Jaden, and Jordan Burkholder.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday at 10am at Blue Ball Mennonite Church, 143 Ewell Road, Blue Ball, with the Reverend Joel Martin officiating. Interment will be in the adjoining cemetery. Viewing will be held on Tuesday at the Church from 2-4 and 6-8 and on Wednesday one hour before the service. Kindly omit flowers.
Arrangements by Groff-High Funeral Home, New Holland.

Published in: Intelligencer Journal
1/12/2009, Lancaster, PA
Submitted by: Robert Fish


Burkholder, D. Leroy, Sr.
, of Ephrata, entered into rest at Ephrata Community Hospital on Wednesday, August 12, 2009.

Born in Fetterville, East Earl Township, he was the son of the late Daniel W. and Grace C. (Witwer) Burkholder and was the husband of Laverne F. (Sweigart) Burkholder. On August 14, 2009 they would have celebrated 58 years of marriage.

He was a member of Bridgeville EC Church, where he had attended since he was 2 years old.

He was the owner and president of Daniel Leroy Burkholder Excavating Company for over 40 years.

He loved the mountains and hunting and enjoyed woodworking and making games out of wood and metal. He also enjoyed making peanut butter eggs. His favorite thing to say was "Anything that is broken, I can probably fix."

In addition to his wife, he is survived by 5 sons, Daniel L., husband of Sue A. (Weidman) Burkholder of Ephrata, Terry L., husband of Diane (Bergman) Burkholder of Lititz, George A., husband of Nancy (Boley) Burkholder of New Holland, Dennis L., husband of Lorraine (Good) Burkholder of New Holland and Gary L., husband of Carla J. (Noll) Burkholder of Ephrata, 13 grandchildren, his late grandson Brett, and 6 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by a brother, R. George
Burkholder of New Holland, and 4 sisters, Catharine Messner of East Earl, Grace Brubaker of Lancaster, Helen Messner of East Earl, and Ruth Hornberger of East Earl.

He was preceded in death by his brother James.

A viewing will be held on Sunday, August 16th from 6 to 8 PM at the Stradling Funeral Home, 201 Church Avenue, Ephrata, and also one hour prior to services on Monday at the church. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM on Monday at Bridgeville EC Church, 5971 Division Highway, Narvon, with Pastor Phil Walck officiating. Interment will follow in the Bridgeville Cemetery.

Memorial contributions in Leroy's memory may be sent to Bridgeville Evangelical Congregational Church, 5971 Division Highway, Narvon, PA 17555.

Arrangements by Stradling Funeral Homes, Akron/Ephrata.
Submitted by: Robert Fish
Intelligencer Journal - 8/14/2009
Lancaster, PA



Burkholder, Delmas B.
, 73, of Peach Bottom passed away at home on February 12, 2009 after a six-year battle with cancer. He was the husband of Elva O. (Martin) Burkholder and the late Lena O. (Sensenig) Burkholder who died in 1998.

Born in Ephrata, he was the son of Nora S. (Burkholder) Burkholder Weaver of Ephrata and the late Chester M. Burkholder.

He was a farmer and a member of Fairmount Mennonite Church, Weaverland Conference.

In addition to his wife and mother, he is survived by six children: Robert husband of Esther Mae (Garman) Burkholder, Millerstown; Eugene husband of Janice (Martin) Burkholder, Richfield; Nelson husband of Norene (Martin) Burkholder, Peach Bottom; Nancy wife of Elvin Nolt, Richland; Delmas L. husband of Lois (Zimmerman) Burkholder, Lititz; Jay husband of Suzanne (Burkholder) Burkholder, Peach Bottom, 34 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Also brothers Walter husband of Martha (Good) Burkholder of New Holland, Chester Burkholder of Ephrata, and Vernon husband of Edith (Stauffer) Burkholder, Ickesburg.

He was preceded in death by a sister-in-law, Esther Mae (Martin) Burkholder.

His funeral will be held on Monday, Feb. 16, at 9:30 a.m. at the Little Britain Fellowship Center with further services at 10 a.m. at the Fairmount Mennonite Church, with Bishop Jeremiah Sensenig and Bishop Curvin Zimmerman officiating. Interment in the adjoining church cemetery.

Viewing will be at Fairmount Homes, Farm Crest Chapel, Ephrata, on Sunday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Kindly omit flowers. Arrangements are with Groff-High Funeral Home, New Holland.
Source: Intelligencer Journal - 2/14/2009
Submitted by: Robert Fish



Burkholder, Eli S.
, Metter, GA, formerly of Myerstown, died Dec. 31, 2009 at the age of 83 years. He was the son of the late Jacob H. and Emma (Sensenig) Burkholder. He was a member of the Little Mountain Mennonite Church.

He is survived by his wife, Edith (Zimmerman); one son, David Z. Burkholder and wife Lucille of Benton, IL; three daughters: Rachel wife of Earl Heatwole, Metter, GA; Ruth wife of Willis Mast, Myerstown; and Rhoda wife of Wilber Sweigart, Richland; 21 grandchildren; 26 great-grandchildren; one brother, Elam Burkholder, Ephrata; and three sisters: Maggie Horst, Quarryville; Anna
Burkholder, Ephrata; and Mary Burkholder, Myerstown.

He was preceded in death by an infant son James and infant daughter Magdalena; three brothers: Titus, Jacob, and Ivan and two sisters: Eva and Emma.

A memorial service is planned for Sunday at 2:00 p.m. at Metter Mennonite Church, Metter, GA where he resided with his daughter.

A viewing will be held at Little Mountain Mennonite Church from 4 to 8 p.m. on Tuesday and a funeral service at 10 a.m. on Wednesday at Centerville Mennonite Church. Burial will be in Martindale Mennonite Cemetery. Kindly omit flowers. The Groff-High Funeral Home, New Holland is in charge of arrangements.

Intelligencer Journal - 1/2/2010
Lancaster, PA
Submitted by: Robert Fish



Burkholder, Gertrude Evelyn Martin
, 82, of Waynesboro, Virginia died May 22, 2009 at Fishersville, Virginia.  She was born July 31, 1926 in Augusta County, Virginia to William H. and Florence (Hershey) Martin.  On December 20, 1945 she was married to Merlin A. Burkholder, who was born September 15, 1924 and survives.

Surviving are children, Eddie & Patsy Burkholder; Robert & Sandy Burkholder;  Perry & Debbie Burkholder; Philip & Sandy Burkholder; Cindy & Brent Houff; Sara & Danny Showalter; Jay Burkholder; a daughter-in-law, Robin Burkholder; 22 grandchildren, 26 great-grandchildren, and siblings, Hershey Martin; Barbara Heistand; Jane Davis; Virginia & Harold Brubaker; and Robert & Nancy Martin.

A son, Wendell M. Burkholder; a great-granddaughter, Laura Mae Burkholder; and a brother, William H. Martin, Jr.; preceded her in death.

She loved gardening and flowers, sewing and quilting, cooking and baking.

Memorial services were held May 25, 2009 at Springdale Mennonite Church, Waynesboro, Virginia with burial in the adjoining cemetery.

Submitted by: Nancy Stoll, Waynesboro, VA
Edited by: Thelma Hoover Martin



Burkholder, Harold E.
77 of Baltimore, MD, died January 15, 2009. He was born January 27, 1931 in Lancaster, PA, to Clarence and Blanche (nee Herr) Burkholder; He was married to Mary Jane (nee Myers) Burkholder since June 16, 1951.

Survived by his wife and children, Ruth Ann Gochnauer and her husband James; J. Michael Burkholder, Barbara Sue Liberto and her husband Stephen, and David Keith Burkholder and his wife Rosemary; brother of J. Richard and Charles A. Burkholder. Also surviving are 16 grandchildren, 2 great-grandchildren and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Harold moved to Baltimore, MD from Witmer Heights, PA on July 4, 1953 to help plant a permanent church known as Wilkens Avenue Mennonite Church. Notable church related involvement, Baltimore Church plant, 1952-53; Friday Night Youth Activities, 1954-1966; Youth Haven Involvement, nickname of 'Farmer', 1966 to 1978; New Creation Church Plant, East Baltimore, Aisquith Street Projects, 1978-1981; Wilkens Avenue Mennonite Church, 1978 to present serving as Treasurer/Trustee,'Interim' Lead Pastor, 1982-1995; Senior Advisor, 1995-present.

Funeral Service was january 17, 2009 at the Catonsville United Methodist Church, Catonsville, MD. Interment was  in New Cathedral Cemetery, Baltimore, MD

Source: Lancaster On Line, January 19, 2009
Submitted by: Leon Hertzler, Newport, NH
----------------
Burkholder, Harold E.

Harold E. Burkholder, 77, of Baltimore, MD, died January 15, 2009 at his southwest Baltimore home of complications from a stroke.  He was born January 27, 1931 in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, to Clarence A. and Blanche (Herr) Burkholder.

He married Mary Jane Myers on June 16, 1951.

He was a 1948 graduate of East Lampeter High School, Witmer Heights, PA.  In July, 1953, the family moved to Baltimore, MD from near Lancaster, to help establish the Wilkens Avenue Mennonite Church where Harold served as a licensed minister, along with various other responsibilities, until his final illness.

He was active with several other church plants in the Baltimore area and served on the board of the Mount Clare Christian School.  He was Regional Director for Mennonite Disaster Service and a board member of Camp Andrews, Holtwood, PA.

He was employed by the Electric Motor Repair Company of Baltimore, MD as a Master Electrician for 49 years and 10 months. One of his favorite tasks was working on electric motors aboard ships anchored in the Baltimore Harbor.

Survivors include his wife, Jane; sons J. Michael Burkholder of Baltimore, and David K. Burkholder and his wife Rosemary of Woodbridge, VA.; daughters Ruth Ann Gochnauer and her husband James of Brooklyn, N.Y. and Barbara Sue Liberto and her husband Stephen of Ellicott City, MD; two brothers J. Richard Burkholder and his wife Susan, of Goshen, IN and Charles A. Burkholder and his wife Aleda, of Green Valley, AZ; 16 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Memorial services at Catonsville, MD, were conducted by the district Mennonite Church ministry on January 24, with interment in New Cathedral Cemetery, Baltimore.

Submitted by: J.R.Burkholder, Goshen, IN



Burkholder, Melvin Martin
, 58, of Ephrata, entered into rest at his residence on Monday, September 21, 2009.

Born in Ephrata, he was the son of Paul Z. Burkholder and the late Leah W. (Martin) Burkholder. He was married for over 38 years to Elva O. (Ringler) Burkholder.

A member of Millway Mennonite Church, Groffdale Conference, he was a farmer and mechanic.

In addition to his wife and father, Melvin is survived by four sons: Marlin R., husband of Mary Elizabeth (Eberly) Burkholder and Loren Ray, husband of Elva Z. (Newswanger) Burkholder, both of Williamsburg, PA, Delmar R., husband of Sabrina L. (High) Burkholder and Edwin Lee Burkholder, both of Ephrata; three daughters: Norma Jean, wife of Earl Z. Newswanger of Williamsburg, PA, Lucille R., wife of Curvin M. Horning, and Carolyn Louise Burkholder, both of Ephrata; two brothers, Ervin M., husband of Emma H. (Weaver) Burkholder of Greenwich, OH, and Lloyd M., husband of Esther H. (Zimmerman) Burkholder of Ephrata; five sisters: Etta M. Nolt of Shippensburg, Ida M., wife of David H. Zimmerman of Lititz, Lydia M., wife of Marvin B. Sensenig of Shippensburg, Lena M., wife of Earl H. Zimmerman of Plymouth, OH, and Naomi M., wife of Lester Z. Newswanger of Shiloh, OH, and 16 grandchildren.

Besides his mother, he was preceded in death by his brother, Paul Burkholder.

A viewing will be held at the late residence, 110 Cocalico Creek Road, Ephrata, from 2-4 and 6-8 PM on Friday, September 25th. Funeral services will be held from the late residence on Saturday, September 26th, at 9:00 AM with further services from the Conestoga Mennonite Church, West Earl Township at 9:30 AM with Bishops Ammon Weaver and Eli Burkholder officiating. Interment will be in the adjoining church cemetery.

Please omit flowers. Arrangements by Stradling Funeral Homes, Akron/Ephrata.
Intelligencer Journal - 9/23/2009
Lancaster, PA
Robert Fish



Burkholder, Violet Shank
, age 93 of Menno Haven Chambersburg, Pa. and formerly of Maugansville, Md. died January 16, 2009 at the Chambersburg Hospital. She was born December 19, 1915 in Greencastle, Pa. to Aaron and Ida (Grove) Shank. Her husband was John Eber Burkholder were married August 11, 1936 in Hagerstown, Md
She was a member of the Salem Ridge Mennonite Church of Greencastle, PA.
 
Surviving is her husband and one son, Marlin (Husband of Charlotte Heatwole) Burkholder of Harrisonburg, Va., two daughters, Jean Burkholder (Wife of Ken) Peifer, Hagerstown, Md., Joyce Burkholder, Lancaster, Pa., one sister, Ida Frey, Charlottesville, Va., six grandchildren and sixteen great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by an infant son, three brothers and one sister.

Funeral service was January 20, 2009 at the Salem Ridge Mennonite Church with Rev. Galen Lehman and Chaplain Vernon Isner officiating. Burial was in the Salem Ridge Mennonite Cemetery, Greencastle, PA.
 
Source:  Harold M. Zimmerman And Son Funeral Home, Greencastle, PA
Submitted by: Leon Hertzler, Newport, NH



Burkholder, Weaver W.
, 79, of Akron, passed away peacefully at his home at 2:50 PM, on Sunday, October 25, 2009, after a lengthy illness, surrounded by his family.

Born in East Earl Township on August 18, 1930, to the late Michael W. Burkholder and the late Emma (Weaver) Burkholder, he was the husband of Mabel I. (Snyder) Burkholder with whom he shared 57 years of marriage.

He was a member of Groffdale Mennonite Church, Weaverland Conference, and a retired farmer.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by two sons: Jay C., husband of Rhoda (Good) Burkholder, of Leola; Dennis L., husband of Marlene (Hursh) Burkholder of McClure; three daughters: Lois A., wife of Irvin Weaver of Ephrata; Judy L., wife of Vernon Weaver of Manheim; and Karen J., wife of Kenneth Horning of Elizabethtown; 20 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by 6 brothers: Melvin W. (Emma Hurst), Lititz; M. Lloyd (Anna Mary Martin), Lebanon; Titus W. (Anna Sensenig), Gordonville; John W. (Alverta Rutt), East Earl; Leon W. (Vera Nolt), New Holland and Frank W. (Eva Good), East Earl; and one sister, Arlene W. (Melvin Horst), Cochranville. He is also survived by stepmother, Anna (Rissler Martin) Burkholder, East Earl; stepbrother, Noah Martin (Marian Oberholtzer), Narvon; stepsisters, Mary (John Martin), Narvon; and Ruth (Charles Wanner), Mohnton.

He was preceded in death by an infant son and daughter, a brother, Raymond W. (Ada Kurtz) Burkholder, and a sister, Edna (Burkholder) (Lloyd) Martin.

A viewing will be held on Wednesday, October 28th, from 2-4 and 6-8 PM at the Farm Crest Chapel, Fairmount Retirement Community, 1100 Farm Crest Drive, Ephrata. Funeral services will be held on Thursday at 9:00 from the Farm Crest Chapel with further services at 9:30 AM from the Groffdale Mennonite Church (Weaverland Conference), with Bishops Curvin Zimmerman and Jeremiah Sensenig officiating. Interment will be in the adjoining church cemetery.

Kindly omit flowers. Arrangements by Stradling Funeral Homes, Akron/Ephrata.
Intelligencer Journal - 10/27/2009
Lancaster, PA
Submitted by: Robert Fish



Byler, Edna
, 42, of Apple Creek, OH died February 11, 2009 at the home of her parents. She was born in Wayne County on July 12, 1966 to Mahlon J. and Ella (Miller) Byler She attended Living Hope Outreach in Millersburg, OH.
 
She is survived by her parents of Apple Creek; sisters, Mary (Louis) Choj and Amanda (Dave) Miller, both of Apple Creek, OH and Martha (David) Weaver of Millersburg, OH; brothers, Andrew (Paula) Byler of Apple Creek,OH;  Bill (Katie) Byler of Winesburg, OH; Ervin (Amy) Byler of Orrville, OH; Enos (Peggy) Byler of Dalton, OH and Mark (Lily) Byler of Millersburg, OH; twenty-five nieces and nephews and twelve great nieces and nephews; special friends, Mary Troyer, Joyce Hershberger, Charlotte and Marcia Miller and Rita Hochstetler.

A special thank you to family friend, Levina Peachey for her help and encouragement.

Memorial services were Feburary 16, 2009 at Mennonite Christian Assembly with Pastor Joe Hochstetler officiating. A private graveside service was prior to the memorial service in the Mennonite Christian Assembly church cemetery, Fredericksburg, OH.
Source: The Budget, Feb 15, 2009
Sugarcreek, OH
Submitted by: Leon Hertzler
 

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