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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  L


  LaBonte, Zachary Lee;   Landes, Ruth M. Allebach;   Landes, William W.;    Landis, E. Jean Risser;   Landis, Emma Alderfer;   Landis, Erma Jean Keim;   Landis, Harold G.;   Landis, J. Harold (Dr.);   Landis, Mary W. Wenger;    Landis, Paul R.;   Lapp, Marian F. Trimble;   Lapp, Yvonne Roselle;   Lauver, Esther K. Shelley;   Leaman, Elizabeth M. Hershey;   Leaman, Ethel R. Metzler;   Leaman, Lillian L. Martin;   Leasa, Kenneth Varden;    Leatherman, Alma Moyer;   Leatherman, Michael Dean;    Lederman, L. Cornell;    LeFever, Lloyd K.;   Lehman, Alice H.;   Lehman, Donald E.;   Lehman, Dorothy M. Eshleman;    Lehman, Esther Kendig (Dr.) ;   Lehman, Mary L. Horst;    Lehman, Robert C.;   Liechty, Ruth Marie Conrad;   Longacre, W. Paul;   Longenecker, Arlene S. Stauffer;   Lukeman, D. Ellen Keim;    Lutz, James C.;   Lyndaker, Warren Glenn;   

LaBonte, Zachary Lee,
16, of Harrisonburg, VA died March 6, 2009. He was born on November 7, 1992 to Allen L. and Suzanne L. Jones LaBonte.

A member of Grace Mennonite Fellowship, Harrisonburg, VA.

Survivied by his parents are three brothers, Nicholas Allen, Jesse Gabriel, Taylor Josiah; three sisters, Emily Sarah, Lydia Rose, and Zion Shohanna; great grandfather, Austin Trimble, Chicago, IL; great grandmother, Arvilla Woff, OH; paternal grandparents, Raymond and Priscilla LaBonte, Lakeland, FL; maternal grandparents, Donald and Marilyn Jones, Rochester, NY.

A memorial service was  March 11, 2009 at Grace Mennonite Fellowship. Harrisonburg, VA with Pastor Mark Landis officiating.
Source: Obituary files of McMullen Funeral Home, Harrisonburg, VA
Submitted by: Leon Hertzler, Newport, NH



Landes, Ruth M. Allebach,
80, of Franconia, PA died February 13, 2009 at Sellersville, Bucks Co., PA.  She was born April 30, 1928 at Souderton,  Montgomery Co., PA  to Paul and Mamie (Moyer) Allebach.  On June 12, 1948 at Souderton she was married to Curtis H. Landes, who was born April 14, 1927 and survives.

Surviving are children, David Landes and his wife Gloria; Jane Leatherman and her husband Arlin; Marlene Clemmer and her husband Kenneth; Lisa Yoder and her husband Gary; Alan Landes and his wife Melanie; 10 grandchildren, 7 great-grandchildren, two sisters, Helen Alderfer and Marie Allebach, and a brother,
Willard Allebach and his wife Emma.

Two brothers, Stanton Allebach and Mark Allebach and a sister, Esther Allebach
preceded her in death.

Memorial services were held February 20, 2009 at Franconia Mennonite Church, Telford, Montgomery Co., PA with burial in the adjoining cemetery.

Submitted by: Barbara Moyer, Telford, PA
Edited by: Thelma Hoover Martin




Landes, William W.
, 83, of Souderton, PA died September 25, 2009 at the same place.  He was born October 8, 1925 at Norristown, PA to William  S. and Bertha (Cramer) Landes.  On September 11, 1993 he was married to Florence Rittenhouse, who was born June 4, 1924 and survives.

Surviving are children, Darlene Hartzwell and Wayne, Leslie Landes and Miriam, Dennis Landes, Ivan Landes, and Janie Landes, six stepchildren:   Herbert Rittenhouse and Kathleen, Gerald Rittenhouse and Elaine, Thomas Rittenhouse and Wanda, Jane Kratz and Harold, and Gail Horning and Kurt; 9 grandchildren, 7 great-grandchildren, two brothers, Charles C. Landes and Doris; and Paul L. Landes; and sisters-in-law: Grace Landes and Violet Landes.

His former wife, Irene Doyle Landes, a son, William Gary Landes and four brothers, Ernest Landes, Ivan Landes, Lester Landes, and Harold Landes
preceded him in death.

Memorial services were held September 30, 2009 at Towamencin Mennonite Church, Kulpsville, PA with burial in the adjoining cemetery.

Submitted by: Rose Hackman, Kulpsville, PA
Edited by: Thelma Hoover Martin



Landis, Emma Alderfer
, 90, of Lansdale, Montgomery Co., PA died November 21, 2009 at the same place.  She was born October 16, 1919 at Harleysville, Montgomery Co., PA to Elias and Sallie (Alderfer) Landis.

Surviving are six sisters: Betty Landes and husband Royden; Doris Landis and husband Richard; Kathryn Landis; Mary Jane Bergey and husband Robert; Ruth Ruth and husband John; Susan Souder and husband John M.; and three brothers: Abram Landis and wife Grace; Melvin Landis and wife Esther; and Jim Landis and wife Bev.

Two brothers: Curtis Landis and wife Betty (living); and Elias Landis Jr. and wife Glenda (living) preceded her in death.

Memorial services were held November 24, 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


Landis, E. Jean Risser
, 84, of Landis Homes, Lititz, PA formerly of Lancaster, died May 21, 2009. She was born in Mt. Joy Twp., Lancaster Co., PA, to Martin E. and Fannie Garber Risser. She was the wife of the late Leroy H. Landis. She was a member of Mellinger Mennonite Church, Lancaster, PA. She volunteered at the Lancaster Mennonite Historical Society and Landis Homes.

Survived by a brother, Jay M. Risser, husband of Lois Anne, Lancaster, PA; niece Carol A., wife of Dennis Fahnestock, Landisville, PA; nephew J. Ronald Risser, husband of Betti, Lancaster, PA and niece Maryellen, husband of Seth Cranston, Ashfield, MA. She was the great aunt to Andrew Risser, David Risser, Matthew Fahnestock and Katelyn Fahnestock.

A memorial service was May 27, 2009 at Landis Homes West Bethany Chapel with the Rev. Joseph Miller officiating. Private interment will be held for the family. 

Source: LOL May 25, 2009
Lancaster, PA
Submitted by: Leon Hertzler


Landis, Erma Jean Keim,
88, of Sterling, Whiteside Co., IL died October 23, 2009 at the same place.  She was born June 17, 1921 at Sugarcreek, Tuscarawas Co., OH to Noah and Mary (Immel) Keim.  On November 25, 1950 at Sugarcreek, OH she was married to Howard William Landis, who was born January 11, 1921 and died November 10, 2003..

Surviving are children, Beth Landis, Lois (Clifford) Oyer, Mark (Corina) Landis, and Keith (Lois) Landis, 9 grandchildren,  4 step-grand-children, 5 great-grandchildren, 3 step-great-grandchildren.

A sister, Ruth Eshleman preceded her in death.

Erma worked for MCC from 1948-1950. During her life she sewed and quilted many items for MCC and in her later years took many service trips to California and Pennsylvania.

Memorial services were held October 28, 2009 at Science Ridge Mennonite Church, Sterling, Whiteside Co., IL with burial in the adjoining cemetery.

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



Landis, Harold G.
, 89, of 2944 Best Rd., Morgantown, died Saturday, October 24, 2009 at his home.

Born in Lancaster, he was the son of the late Phares B. and Martha (Groff) Landis.

Harold attended Churchtown Mennonite Church and was a member of Mellinger Mennonite Church.

He enjoyed observing nature and reading, especially the newspaper.

Surviving are two sisters: Arlene Landis Kurtz, with whom he resided and Gladys Landis Brubaker, Quarryville, and 17 nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by a sister, Miriam Landis Eckman and three brothers: I. Marvin Landis, J. Carvell Landis, and Raymond P. Landis.

His funeral will be held on Tuesday, October 27, 2009 at 10 AM at the Groff-High Funeral Home, 145 W. Main St., New Holland with Clair Good and Philip Hollinger officiating. Interment will be in Mellinger Mennonite Cemetery. A viewing will be held one hour prior to the service.

Intelligencer Journal - 10/26/2009
Lancaster, PA
Submitted by: Robert Fish



Landis, J. Harold (Dr.)


Dr. J. Harold Landis Veterinarian: Went to be with his Lord at his home on Monday, May 4, 2009 after a 3 ?? year battle with cancer. Dr. Landis was born to J. Ellis and Esther (Witmer) Landis on January 6, 1926 in Bird-in-Hand, Pa., where he grew up on the family farm. He graduated from E. Lampeter High School in 1944. He then served for two years in the United States Navy as a Petty Officer translating communication through Morse Code. Harold did undergraduate work at Penn State University and graduated from the University of Pennsylvania with a V.M.D. In 1952 he married Barbara Ann Smith. He set up practice in Smoketown, Pennsylvania in 1953 treating large and small animals. Through loving care and skillful treatment of animals, his practice grew to a full fledged animal hospital that included nine other veterinarians and many staff.

Harold was involved in numerous veterinary organizations including: Conestoga Valley Veterinary Assoc., Pa. Vet. Med. Assoc., American Vet. Med. Assoc., American Animal Hospital Assoc. and Christian Veterinary Mission of which he had been the chairperson. In addition, he did numerous radio and television spots talking about the care of pets and he wrote for the Humane League. He served in full-time practice for over 45 years, treating fish in retirement. Dr. Landis
also assisted in the training of 12 interns for veterinary practice.

In 1996 he married Kathryn (Denlinger) Eby Landis. They enjoyed 12 years together, especially their times at the Chesapeake Bay. Harold's hobbies included gardening, fish ponds, and boating. He loved traveling to the New Jersey shore with his family which was a 55-year tradition. Dr. Landis was also active in Faith Evangelical Congregational Church as Chair of Pastor Relations, Class Leader, Worship Leader, and Chairman of the Ministry Council. He sought to
let his deeds and his words serve as a light for Christ to his church and community. He dearly loved his family and was an inspiration to his wife, children, and grandchildren. Family and community will miss him greatly.

Harold is survived by his wife Kathryn, his four children, the Rev. Dr. J. D. Landis (wife Carolyn), Steven Harold Landis, Jeffrey Smith Landis (wife Karen), and Mary Catherine Roehm (husband Thomas). He had 10 grandchildren, Mark Landis (wife Michelle), Chad Landis, Bryan Roehm, J. David Landis II, Bethany Landis, Kara Landis, Jacquelyn Roehm, Brandon Roehm, Natalie Landis and Andrea Roehm. Stepchildren, Corinne Brayton (husband Leonard), Cynthia Damon (husband Aimar), and Curtis Eby (wife Cynthia). Sisters, Norma Hess, Lois Hostetter and brother, Jay Landis. Harold was preceded in death by his first wife, Barbara Ann Landis, in 1995 and brother, Mervin Landis.

The funeral will be on Monday, May 11, 2009 at 11 a.m. from Faith Evangelical Congregational Church, 2124 Old Philadelphia Pike, Lancaster, PA 17602 with interment following in Stumptown Mennonite Cemetery. Friends may call at the church on Sunday evening from 6-9 p.m. and 10-11 a.m. Monday.

Memorials may be made to the Faith Evangelical Congregational Church; or No Longer Alone Ministries, 630 Janet Ave., Suite A109, Lancaster PA 17601. Furman Home for Funerals, Leola.
Intelligencer Journal - 5/6/2009
Lancaster, PA
Submitted by: Robert Fish



Landis, Mary W. Wenger
, 84, of Lititz, PA died June 27, 2009 at Lancaster General Hospital. She was born in Manheim, PA to Norman and Susan (Becker) Wenger. Mary was the wife of the late David W. Landis, who died in July of 1993.  She was a charter member of Neffsville Mennonite Church, Lancaster, PA. She sang in the choir and was a long-time Sunday School Teacher. Since her retirement, she had travelled to 13 countries in 5 continents. Mary volunteered weekly at Ten Thousand Villages in Ephrata.

Survived by 2 sons, Steven Landis, husband of Judy of Leola, PA; and Timothy Landis husband of Linda of Lititz, PA; a daughter, Gwendolyn Hostetter wife of Philip of Lancaster, PA; 8 grandchildren, and 2 siblings, Ralph Wenger, Lancaster, PA and Rachel Carpenter of Massachusetts.

She was preceded in death by a brother, Harold, and 2 sisters, Verna Kautz and Arlene Boll, all of Manheim, PA.

Funeral Service was July 7, 2009 at Neffsville Mennonite Church, Lancaster, PA with Rev. Harry Jarrett officiating. Interment will be at Hernley's Mennonite Cemetery, Manheim, PA. 
Source: LOL July 2, 2009
Lancaster, PA
Submitted by: Leon Hertzler


Landis, Paul R.


MILTON - Paul R. Landis, 82, of Broadway Road, passed away on Monday, Sept. 21, 2009, surrounded by his family at his son's home.

He was born July 31, 1927, in Leola, a son of the late Elvin M. and Sarah (Root) Landis. On Sept. 3, 1949, he married the former Evelyn Wenger, and they celebrated 60 years of marriage earlier this month.

Paul farmed in the Limestoneville area for 35 years and also was a farm equipment salesman. Later in life, he worked in maintenance for Turbot Township.
He loved meeting many guests and sharing their faith in the Lord as he and his wife served through Pau-Lyn's Country Bed-and-Breakfast, Broadway Road, Milton, which they owned and operated for 21 years. He also enjoyed serving with various fire companies over the years and enjoyed photography.

A faithful member of Community Mennonite Fellowship Church, Milton, he served as a deacon for 33 years, as a song leader and was active in many roles at the church. He enjoyed Bible school and Bible study groups there.

Paul enjoyed hunting in God's great creation and singing praises to his maker. He loved being with all his family and invested in their lives and spent much time in prayer for them.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by four children and their spouses, James L. and Carolyne Landis, of Milton, Jean and John Sensenig, of Watsontown, Daryl and Nancy Landis, of Milton, and P. Dennis and Joan Landis, of New Columbia; 15 grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren; two brothers and sisters-in-law, Robert and Rhoda Landis and John and Gladys Landis, all of Lancaster; and one sister-in-law, Jane Landis, of Lititz, widow of C. Elvin Landis.

He was preceded in death by a brother, C. Elvin Landis.

Friends are invited to call from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Friday and 9 to 10:30 a.m. Saturday, followed by the funeral at 10:30, at Community Mennonite Fellowship Church, 2985 Broadway Road, Milton.  Burial will follow in Beaver Run Mennonite Cemetery, rural Turbotville.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions in Paul's memory be made to either Mennonite Disaster Services, 1018 Main St., Akron, PA 17501 (www.mds.mennonite.net), or Global Disciples, 315 W. James St., No. 202, Lancaster, PA 17603 (www.globaldisciples.net), or Maranatha Christian School, 1485 Plotts Road, Watsontown, PA 17777.

Arrangements are entrusted to the Brooks Funeral Home, 207 Broadway St., Turbotville.
Sunbury Daily Item - 9/23/2009
Sunbury, PA
Submitted by: Robert Fish



Lapp, Marian F. Trimble
, 87, of Sterling, IL died there on January 31, 2009.  She was born May 18, 1921 at Sterling, Whiteside County, Illinois to Harry and Bessie (Frank) Trimble.  On May 28, 1945 at Rochelle, DeKalb County, Illinois she was married to James Lapp, who died in 2001.

Surviving are children, Dale (Carolyn) Lapp; Vonda James; Nancy (Kurt) Hunphrey;  9 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren, and siblings, Marge Rose; Bernice Bassler; Beulah (Royal) Shippee; Geraldine (Walter) Whitney; Elaine (Dean) Beasley; James (Betty) Trimble; Marvin Trimble; and John (Mary Ann) Trimble.

One brother and one sister preceded her in death.

Memorial services were held February 4, 2009 at Science Ridge Mennonite Church, Sterling, Illinois with burial in the adjoining cemetery.

Submitted by: Sue Dirks
Science Ridge Mennonite Church, Sterling, IL
Edited by: Thelma Hoover Martin



Lapp, Yvonne Roselle
, 4, of Benton, IL, died at 1:35 a.m. Sunday, September 27, 2009 at her home.

Yvonne Roselle Lapp was born August 10, 2005 in Carbondale, IL, the daughter of Brent and Lucia (Weaver) Lapp.

She is survived by her parents, Brent and Lucia Lapp, Benton, IL, three brothers, Brenton, Westlyn and Ryan Lapp, all of Benton, IL, maternal grandparents, Mervin and Lucinda Weaver, Johnsonville, IL, paternal grandparents, Clair and Linda Lapp, Strasburg, maternal great-grandmother, Elizabeth Stauffer, Ephrata, paternal great-grandparents, Martin and Eva Nolt, Peach Bottom.

Yvonne was preceded in death by one brother, Jadin Lapp.

Funeral services will be held at 9:30 a.m. Thursday, October 1, 2009 at the Benton Civic Center with Brother James Zimmerman and Brother Eugene Burkholder
officiating. Burial will be in the Ewing Mennonite Church Cemetery. Visitation will be from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2009 at the Ewing Mennonite Church.  Hobbs-Johnson Funeral Home, Benton, IL, is in charge of arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Hobbs-Johnson Funeral Home, 301 South Main St., Benton, IL 62812.

Intelligencer Journal - 9/29/2009
Lancaster, PA
Submitted by: Robert Fish



Lauver, Esther K. Shelley
, 98, of McAlisterville, PA died December 29, 2009, at Northridge Center for Assisted Living, McAlisterville, PA. She was born April 18, 1911, in Delaware Twp., Juniata County, PA to Samuel and Olive (Auker) Shelley. Her husband, Donald E. Lauver, whom she married on Jan. 1, 1932, preceded her in death on Dec. 5, 1987.

Surviving are two daughters, Elta M. Lauver, of Lewistown, PA; Twila Finkbiner and her husband Jay, of McAlisterville, PA; one daughter-in-law, Roxie Lauver, of Mifflintown, PA; one sister, Etta Bittinger, of Uniontown, Ohio; and she leaves behind three grandchildren; three step grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; four step great-grandchildren; and three step great-great-grandchildren.

Preceding her in death were, one son, Donald S. Lauver, in 1984; two brothers and four sisters.

Mrs. Lauver was a member of the New Harvest Community Church, of Millerstown, PA and a former member and wife of the one time Pastor Donald E. Lauver, of the Lost Creek Mennonite Church, of Oakland Mills, PA where she had served as a children's Sunday school teacher for more than forty years and was a gracious hostess to a wide variety of people. She, along with her late husband, were active as missionaries in Belize, Central America and Aflex, Ken.

Funeral service was December 31, 2009 at the Lost Creek Mennonite Church, Oakland Mills, PA with Pastor Warren Peachey and Pastor Rodney Bower officiating. Interment was in the Lost Creek Mennonite Cemetery, Oakland Mills, PA.
Source: Lewistown Sentinel, Lewstown, PA December 30, 2009
Submitted by: Leon Hertzler



Leaman, Ethel R. Metzler
, 96, of Landis Homes Retirement Community, Lititz, PA, died January 26, 2009. She was born in Rapho Twp. Lancaster Co., PA to John and Ada Risser Metzler. She was married to Daniel W. Leaman he died February 9, 2002.

She was a member of Stumptown Mennonite Church, Bird in Hand, PA. Mrs. Leaman and her late husband served together in teaching and ministry at Beaver Run Mennonite Church in Milton, PA.

Surviving are her eight children: daughter, Marian R. Horst, wife of the late Abram Horst, Jr. of Lancaster, PA; sons, Carl husband of Lynda Ebersole Leaman of Daytona Beach, FL, John H. husband of Linda Landis Leaman, Robert E. husband of Carol Smoker Leaman, both of Lancaster, PA; Glenn M. husband of Jane Sauder Leaman of Leola, PA; J. Kenneth husband of Sharon Cain Leaman, Daniel L. husband of Naomi Deutcher Leaman, both of Naples, FL, Gerald L. husband of Sharon Hostetter Leaman of New Holland, PA; 58 grandchildren; 41 great-grandchildren; eleven great-great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by an infant daughter, Carol, a grandson, Rodger Leaman, and a sister, Helen Weaver, and two brothers, Earl and Paul Metzler.
Funeral service was January 31, 2009, at West Bethany Chapel of Landis Homes, Lititz, PA.  Interment was in Stumptown Mennonite Cemetery, Bird in Hand, PA

Source: Lancaster onLine January 28, 2009
Submitted by: Leon Hertzler, Newport, NH


Leaman, Elizabeth M. Hershey
, 98, of Landis Homes Lititz, PA and formerly of Strasburg, PA died January 24, 2009, at the Lancaster General Hospital. She was born in Leacock Twp., Lancaster Co, PA to Martin R. and Susan Eby Hershey. Her husband the late Daniel D. Leaman died in 1978.

Elizabeth was first a member of Hershey Mennonite Church, Lititz, PA and then Mellinger Mennonite Church, Lancaster, PA. She assisted her husband in his ministry at Andrews Bridge Mennonite Church, Christiana PA., New Life Mennonite Church in Boston, MA and Mt. Pleasant Mennonite Church. She was a founding member of Landis Homes Bethany Fellowship, Lititz, PA.
 
Surviving are her four children, Hershey, husband of Norma Histand Leaman, Lititz, PA; Evelyn, wife of John Sweigart, Jr., Lititz, PA; Elizabeth, wife of John Lehman, Harrison Valley, PA and Marie, wife of Calvin Shenk, Harrisonburg, VA; Daughter-in-law Grace Leaman, New London, PA; 13 grandchildren, 30 great-grandchildren, four great-great-grandchildren; three siblings Miriam Hershey, John Hershey and Eby, husband of Kathryn Hershey, all of Landis Homes, Lititz, PA; and two sister-in-laws, Ruth Hershey, Landis Homes and Eleanor Hershey, Mennonite Home, Lancaster. PA.

She was predeceeased by her husband, son James Leaman and her siblings, Sem, Emma, Rohrer, Amos and Sanford Hershey and Evelyn Leaman.

Funeral service was January 29, 2009 at the Landis Homes Bethany Chapel with Chaplain Donald W. Good and The Rev. Calvin E. Shenk officiating. Interment in Mellinger Mennonite Cemetery, Lancaster, PA.
Source: Lancaster OnLine January 26, 2009
Submitted by: Leon Hertzler



Leaman, Lillian L. Martin
, 68, of Terre Hill, PA died May 12, 2009 at the Ephrata Community Hospital, She was born in Terre Hill, PA to Adam H. and Sadie (Good) Martin. She was married to Paul M. Leaman for 46 yrs. A member of the former Welsh Mountain Mennonite Church where she was active as a Sunday school and Bible school teacher and supported her husband in his deacon ministry for 22 years. More recently she has been attending Bethany Grace Fellowship. She was an accomplished painter and enjoyed cooking, camping, music, and traveling to all 48 contiguous states.

Surviving is her husband and four children, Rosene, married to Merle Ressler of New Holland, PA; Pam, married to Barry Martin of East Earl, PA; Dean, married to Jen (Usner) Leaman of East Earl, PA and Michelle, married to Robert Brullo of Denver, PA; nine grandchildren, Ashley and Kelsey Ressler, Erika and Cortney Martin, Lilly, Koy and Kane Leaman, and Cody and Rylee Brullo; and seven brothers and sisters, Harriet Sensenig, A. Eugene, married to Eva (Myer) Martin all of New Holland, PA: C. Lewis, married to Carol (Beideman) Martin of Ephrata, PA; Laura J., married to Paul Weaver of Lititz, PA; Mildred J., married to Aaron Horst of New Holland, PA; C. Edwin, married to Dee (Eckenroth) Martin of Bowmansville, PA and J. Donald, married to Mary Ann (Mellinger) Martin of Lebanon, PA.

Preceding her in death are two brothers, J. Horace and Robert Ray Martin; and two sisters, Sadie Ella and Henrietta G. Martin.

Funeral services was May 16, 2009 at Bethany Grace Fellowship, East Earl, PA with the Reverend Leon R. Shirk officiating. Interment will be in the Weaverland Mennonite Cemetery, East Earl, PA.
Source: Obit. Files of Eckenroth Home for Funerals, Terre Hill, PA
Submitted by: Leon Hertzler



Leasa, Kenneth Varden
, 60, of Downingtown, Chester, Co., PA died August 4, 2009 at the same place from brain cancer. 

He was born August 12, 1948 at West Chester, Chester Co., PA to William Kenneth and Betty (Brackbill) Leasa.  Betty was born September 5 1925 and died March 23, 2004.  William Kenneth was born January 12 1917 and died June 28, 2008.

On August 22, 1969 at San Clemente, California he was married to Marie Marguerite Moy, who was born August 31, 1943 and survives.

Surviving are two daughters, Adrienne Leasa, and Jennifer Leasa & Eibe Johanns, a sister, Paula (Leasa) & Brad Warren, and a brother, Stephen K. & April Leasa.

Memorial services were held August 8, 2009 at Frazer Mennonitte Church, Frazer, Chester Co., PA with burial in the adjoining cemetery.

Submitted by: Brenda Martin Hurst, Frazer, PA
Edited by: Thelma Hoover Martin



Leatherman, Alma Moyer
, 91, of Hatfield, PA died August 4, 2009 at Harleysville, Mountgomery County, PA from dementia.  She was born May 12, 1918 at Lower Salford, Montgomery, PA to Willard L. and Esther (Clemens) Moyer.  On September 28, 1940 she was married to Willard "Bill" D. Leatherman, who was born September 18, 1918 and survives.

Surviving are children, Janet, wife of Warren Yoder; W. Ray Leatherman and wife Linda; and Darlene, wife of Don Brandis; 5 grandchildren, and 10 great-grandchildren.

Nine brothers and sisters preceded her in death.

Memorial services were held August 7, 2009 at Plains Mennonite Church, Hatfield, Montgomery Co., PA with burial in the adjoining cemetery.
Submitted by: Mike Derstine, Hatfield, PA
Edited by: Thelma Hoover Martin



Leatherman, Michael Dean
, 31, of Pennsburg, PA died August 9, 2009 at Philadelphia, PA from a brain tumor.  He was born June 4, 1978 at Pottsville, Schuylkill Co., PA to John Paul and Lena (Landis 1952-2000) Leatherman.  On September 1, 2002 at Williamsport, Lycoming Co., PA he was married to Carmen Ingalls, who was born April 27, 1978 and survives.

Surviving are a son, Michael Darren Leatherman, two brothers, Matthew Leatherman and wife Heather, and Darren Leatherman.

Memorial services were held August 14, 2009at Franconia Mennonite Church, Telford, Montgomery Co., PA with burial in the adjoining cemetery.

Submitted by: Barbara Moyer, Telford, PA
Edited by: Thelma Hoover Martin



Lederman, L. Cornell
, 80, of Leo, IN died June 25, 2009 at Fort Wayne, IN from injuries due to an automobile accident.  He was born June 17, 1929 in Allen Co., IN to Amos and Lilly (Liechty) Lederman.  He was married to Kathryn "Kate" Slabach, who was born February 9, 1934 and died in December 1996.

Surviving are three children, Todd (Cynthia) Lederman, Jodi Lederman-Maxton, and Gina (Jim) Anderson, 6 grandchildren,  and 1 great-grandchild.

Memorial services were held June 29, 2009 at North Leo Mennonite Church, Leo, IN
 with burial in Leo Memorial Cemetery, Leo, IN.
Submitted by: Elaine Stuckey, Leo, IN
Edited by: Thelma Hoover Martin



LeFever, Lloyd K.
, 91, of East Petersburg, PA died February 14, 2009 at the Lancaster General Hospital. He was born in Neffsville, PA to Isaac H. and Anna H. Kilheffer Lefever. He was married to Miriam E. Blank LeFever for 63 yrs.

He was a member of the East Petersburg Mennonite Church and served as Sunday school secretary and treasurer. He was active with the Mennonite Central Committee. From 1942 to 1946 he served in the Civilian Public Service as a truck driver in Maryland. He was a charter member of the Lancaster Mennonite Historical Society, Hans Herr House Foundation, and the East Petersburg Historical Society.

Surviving is his wife and son, Kenneth L., husband of Carolyn R. Packer LeFever of Manheim, PA; grandson, Kenneth L. Jr., husband of Rebecca M. Norris LeFever of Lancaster, PA; three great grandchildren: Kurtis Aleksandr LeFever, Daniel Justis LeFever, Elizabeth Izella LeFever; a brother, Isaac K., husband of Vera Shrum Lefever of Denver, PA; and many nieces and nephews.

Lloyd was preceded in death by a sister, Anna Ruth Sauder, and a brother, Willis K. Lefever.

Funeral service was February 19, 2009 at the East Petersburg Mennonite Church, Interment was in the East Petersburg Mennonite cemetery, East Petersburg, PA.

Source: Lancaster OnLine February 16, 2009
Submitted by: Leon Hertzler, Newport, NH
-------------

LeFever, Lloyd K., 91, of East Petersburg, PA died February 14, 2009 at Lancaster General Hospital, Lancaster, PA from congestive heart failure.  He was born September 18, 1917 at Neffsville, PA to Isaac H. and Anna H. (Kilheffer) LeFever.  He was married to Miriam E. Blank.

Surviving are a son, Kenneth L. LeFever husband of Carolyn R. Packer LeFever, one grandchild, three great-grandchildren, a brother, Isaac K. and a sister, Vera Shrum LeFever.

 A sister, Anna Ruth Sauder and a brother, Willis K. LeFever preceded him in death.

Memorial services were held February 19, 2009 at East Petersburg Mennonite Church, East Petersburg, PA with burial in the adjoining cemetery.

Submitted by: Ruth Durborow, East Petersburg, PA
Edited by: Thelma Hoover Martin



Lehman, Alice H.
83, of Chambersburg, PA died February 8, 2009 at Menno Haven Retirement Community, Chambersburg, PA. She was born August 24, 1925 in Chambersburg, Pa. to David and Susan (Horst) Lehman.

She was a member of Strasburg Mennonite Church, Chambersburg, PA.

She is survived by a sister, Eva H. Lehman and a brother, Archie H. Lehman both of Chambersburg, PA. She has a niece, Julia Hottinger of Broadway, Va. and two nephews; Gerald Lehman and Dale Lehman both of Chambersburg, PA. She was preceded in death by her parents.

Funeral service was February 12, 2009 at Chambersburg Mennonite Church with Rev. Allen Fleagle and Rev. Nathan Wadel officiating. Interment was in Chambersburg Mennonite Cemetery, Chambersburg, PA

Source: Obituary files of Kelso-Cornelius Funeral Home, Chambersburg, PA
Submitted by: Leon Hertzler, Newport, NH

 


Lehman, Donald E.
, 78, of Lowville, died February 19, 2009 at Lowville, Lewis Co., NY from cancer.  

He was born September 24, 1930 at Harrisburg, Lewis Co., NY to Ezra and Clara (Roggie) Lehman.  Ezra was born January 9, 1902 and died August 27, 1986.  Clara was born February 26, 1903 and died December 2, 1942.

On May 18, 1952 at Lowville he was married to Irene Repak, who was born August 11, 1935 and survives.

Surviving are children, Clairon and Bonnie Lehman, two grandchildren, and siblings: Pauline (Lehman) Lyndaker; Carl and Charlotte (Lehman) Clifton; Don and Rosealba (Lehman) Combs; Kermit;  also stepbrother, Aubrey Hills; and stepsister, Beverly Kiernan.

Siblings, Betty Lehman; Beryl Lehman; Meridith Lehman; stepbrother, Ronald Hills, and a granddaughter, Sommer Marie Lehman preceded him in death.

He owned a dairy farm, and when retiring, owned an excavating business.
Also made maple syrup. Volunteered with MDS in Homestead, FL, and in
Virginia.  He was a carpenter and built his own home.

Memorial services were held February 22, 2009 at First Mennonite Church of New Bremen, Lowville, New York with burial in the adjoining cemetery.

Submitted by: Geneva Virkler, Lowville, NY
Edited by: Thelma Hoover Martin



Lehman, Dorothy M. Eshleman
, 92, of Landis Homes, Lititz, PA died December 1, 2009. She was born in Paradise Twp,Lancaster Co., PA to Clarence B. and Anna B. (Rohrer) Eshleman. She was the wife of J. Clair Lehman, who died August 30, 2004.

Dorothy was a member of Grace Point Church of Paradise (formerly Paradise Mennonite Church), Paradise, PA.

Survived by a daughter, Lola Mareta Lehman of Paradise, PA; a son, C. Ronald Lehman of Lancaster, PA; a sister, Lois Thomas of Millersville, PA and a brother, D. Rohrer Eshleman of Lancaster, PA.

Dorothy was preceded in death by a son, J. Marlin Lehman, who died November 30, 1966, and a brother, C. Marvin Eshleman.

Funeral service was December 4, 2009 in the West Bethany Chapel of Landis Homes Lititz, PA with Pastor Fred Martin and Pastor Don Good officiating. Interment in Paradise Mennonite Cemetery, Paradise, PA.
Source: LOL December 2, 2009
Submitted by: Leon Hertzler


Lehman, Dr. Esther Kendig
, 85, died January 30, 2009 at Oak Lea Nursing Home, Harrisonburg, VA. She was born January 14, 1924, in Harrisonburg, Virginia, to  Chester K. and Myra Kendig Lehman.

Dr. Lehman was a member of Mount Clinton Mennonite Church, Harrisonburg, VA.

Surviving are a sister, Dorothy L. Yoder, Goshen, IN; a brother, Robert C. Lehman, Harrisonburg, VA; and 11 nieces and nephews. Dr. Lehman was preceded in death by a sister, Miriam L. Weaver, and a brother, David Lehman.

A memorial service was February 15, at 3:00 PM in Strite Auditorium at the Virginia Mennonite Retirement Community, Harrisonburg, VA with burial at Weavers Mennonite Cemetery, Harrisonburg, VA
Source: Obituary Files of McMullen Funeral Home, Harrisonburg, VA
Submitted by: Leon Hertzler, Newport, NH



Lehman, Mary L. Horst
, 76, of Brethren Village, died May 23, 2009. She was born in Franklin Co., PA to John W. and Alice E. (Frey) Horst. She was the wife of David R. Lehman. They were married over 53 years.  Mary was a member of Grace Point Church of Paradise, PA (formerly Paradise Mennonite Church).

Survived by three daughters, Donna Mae married to David Reppert of Leesport, PA; Doris Ann married to David Kyle of Wellsboro, PA and Diane Kay married to William Poole of Lancaster, PA; seven grandchildren, Katie (Gerhart) married to Joshua Crowl, Emily Gerhart, David Gerhart, Madalyn Kyle, Sara Poole, Mary Poole, Caroline Poole, and seven sisters, Lois Martin of Shippensburg, PA; Ruth married to Milton Brown and Thelma married to Dale Eberly, both of Chambersburg, PA; Miriam married to J. Wilmer Lehman of Willow Hill, PA; Janet married to Jim Barnhart of Greencastle, PA; Edna married to Richard Eberly of State Line, PA and Joyce married to Ray Landis of Okotoks, Alberta, Canada.

Mary was preceded in death by three brothers, Paul, Wayne and Carl.  

A memorial service was May 27, 2009 at the Grace Point Church of Paradise, PA with Pastor Fred Martin and Pastor Tim Rogers officiating. Interment was in Paradise Mennonite Cemetery, Paridise, PA.
Source: LOL May 24, 2009
Lancaster, PA
Submitted by: Leon Hertzler


Lehman, Robert C.
79, of Harrisonburg, VA died February 2, 2009 at Rockingham Memorial Hospital, Harrisonburg, VA. He was born on March 22, 1929 in Harrisonburg, VA to Chester K. and Myra Kendig Lehman. He was married to Ruby Swartzendruber for 54 yrs.


He was a member of Park View Mennonite Church, Harrisonburg, VA.

Survived by his wife and daughter, Judith A. Lehman and husband Kenneth Ontjes, Keezletown, VA; three sons, James A. Lehman and wife Julie, Richmond, VA; Donald L. Lehman and wife Connie, Herndon, VA; Douglas C. Lehman, Mali, Africa; one sister, Dorothy L. Yoder, Goshen, IN.; four grandchildren, Allison Lehman, Eric Lehman, Brian Lehman, and Michael Lehman.

He was preceded in death by two sisters, Miriam Weaver, Esther K. Lehman, and one infant brother David Lehman.

A memorial service was February 16, 2009, at Park View Mennonite Church.Harrison, burg, VA with Rev. Phil Kniss officiating

Source: Obituary Files of McMullen Funeral Home, Harrisonburg, VA
Submitted by: Leon Hertzler, Newport, NH



Liechty, Ruth Marie Conrad
, 77, of Goshen, IN died there on March 23, 2009 from pneumonia.  She was born December 17, 1931 at Wayland, Iowa to Daniel and  Luetta (Kauffman) Conrad.  On August 17, 1959 at Wayland, Iowa she was married to Stanley Liechty.

Surviving are her husband, children: Jeanne Liechty (spouse, Michael Dickens); Jonathan Liechty; Jered Liechty; and two grandchildren.

Memorial services were held March 26, 2009 at Berkey Avenue Mennonite Fellowship, Goshen, Elkhart County, Indiana with scattering of ashes in Greencroft Memorial Gardens, Goshen, IN.
Submitted by: Eleanor Nafziger, Goshen, IN
Edited by: Thelma Hoover Martin
----------------

Liechty, Ruth Conrad, 77, of Goshen, IN died March 23, 2009, at Goshen General Hospital. She was born December 17, 1931in Wayland, Iowa, to Daniel and Luetta (Kauffman) Conrad.  She married Stanley Liechty on August 17, 1959, in Wayland, Iowa. 

A member of Berkey Avenue Fellowship, Goshen, IN. She served as an administrative secretary for Berkey Avenue Mennonite Fellowship and Associated Mennonite Biblical Seminaries. 

She is survived by her husband; a daughter, Jeanne (Michael Dickens) Liechty of Goshen; two sons, Jonathan Liechty of New York City, and Jered Liechty of Goshen; two grandchildren; and two brothers, Willard Conrad of Hesston, KS, and James Conrad of Amana, IA.

She was preceded in death by a brother, Edwin Conrad.

A memorial service was March 26, 2009 at Berkey Avenue Mennonite Fellowship, Goshen, IN.  Pastors Anita Kehr and Dan Schrock will officiate.  Burial will be in Greencroft Memorial Gardens, Goshen, IN.
Source: Obituary files of Yoder-Staly Funeral Home Goshen , IN
Submitted by: Leon Hertzler



Longacre, W. Paul
, 84, of Coopersburg, PA died December 4, 2009 at home surrounded by his family. Paul had spent nine years battling Alzheimer's disease. He was born June 3, 1925, to Henry R. and Eva Susan (Ackerman) Longacre in Quakertown, PA. Paul was married to Ruth (Keeler) Longacre.

He was a life long member of Swamp Mennonite Church where he served as a Sunday School teacher, deacon, treasurer, and elder at various times over the years.

Survived by his wife Ruth and children, Rhoda Detweiler, Glen, Horace, Paul, Susan Rice, and Sally Waldon; 12 grandchildren; and three great-granddaughters.

He was preceded in death by his siblings, Horace W. Longacre and Esther Schantz and his first wife, Ruth Geissinger Longacre, and daughter-in-law, Susan (Gehman) Longacre.

Funeral service was December 8, 2009 at the Swamp Mennonite Church. Interment was in the Swamp Mennonite cemetery, Quakertown, PA.
Source: The Reporter, Lansdale, PA
Sunday, December 6, 2009
Submitted by: Leon Hertzler


Longenecker, Arlene S.
Stauffer,  81, of Landis Homes, formerly of Strasburg, PA, died April 11, 2009 at Hospice of Lancaster Co. Mount Joy, PA  She was born in Manheim Twp. Lancaster Co., PA to Norman and Grace Stehman Stauffer. She was the wife of the late J. Elwood Longenecker.  She was a member of Strasburg Mennonite Church, Strasburg, PA

Survied her four children: Linda wife of Jim Kropf of Vanderhoof, B.C., J. William husband of Louise Shirk Longenecker and David husband of Linda Rohrer Longenecker, both of Montfort, WI, and Rosanne wife of Allen Shenk of Strasburg, PA, twelve grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren. Also sister Lois wife of Harold Nissley of Lititz, PA, and sisters-in-law: Connie Stauffer and Betty Stauffer.

Arlene was preceded in death by two brothers: J. Melvin Stauffer and Harold S. Stauffer.

A memorial service was April 14, 2009 at the Strasburg Mennonite Church, Strasburg, PA. Interment will be private at Union Cemetery Kirkwood, PA
Source: Lancaster OnLine April 12, 2009
Submitted by: Leon Hertzler


Lukeman, D. Ellen Keim
, 75, of Goshen, IN died September 1, 2009 at the same place.  She was born July 4, 1934 at Miami Co., IN to Abe and Susan (Troyer) Keim.  On August 23, 1958 at Eighth St. Mennonite Church, Goshen, IN she was married to Donald L. Lukeman, who was born September 30, 1933 and survives.

Surviving are a daughter, Stephanie (Stephen) Priem, 2 grandchildren, a sister, Elsie Troyer, and a brother, Rev. Ray (Clara) Keim.

Three sisters, Katie Kauffman, Leona Miller, and Susie Sommers, and a brother, Alvin Keim preceded her in death.

Ellen worked for Goshen College, High Park Physicians, and Greencroft in Goshen, Ind.  She was a board member of the Mennonite Relief Sale and served on the Board of Directors of Spring Brooke (neighborhood) in Goshen, Ind.

Memorial services were held September 5, 2009 at College Mennonite Church, Goshen, IN with burial in Violett Cemetery, Goshen, IN.

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



Lutz, James C.
, 79, of Hershey, PA formerly of Elizabethtown, PA died January 25, 2009 at Hershey Medical Center. Born in Elizabethtown, PA to Bishop Clarence E. and Ruth Herr Lutz. He was married to Shirley M. Kolb Lutz for 56 years.

A member of Elizabethtown Mennonite Church where he was a Sunday school teacher for 60 years. Mr. Lutz served for 40 years on the Board of Directors of Sunday School Meditation Association, a weekly radio broadcast ministry. He enjoyed singing and was most recently a member of the "School Boys" singing group.

Survived by his wife and five children, Barbara Lutz, wife of James Bourdaghs, New York, NY; Michael, husband of Sarah Lutz, Lancaster, PA; Philip, husband of Sandra Lutz, Lebanon, PA; Judy, wife of Barry Germer, Elizabethtown, PA and Beth, wife of Gregory Schock, Dauphin, PA; nine grandchildren, three great grandchildren, a brother, John A. Lutz, Randolph, VT and a sister, Mary E. Good, Lancaster, PA.

He was preceded in death by two sisters, Martha Lutz and Esther Lutz.

Funeral Service was January 29, 2009 at Elizabethtown Mennonite Church, Interment was in Elizabethtown Mennonite Cemetery, Elizabthtown, PA

Source: Lancaster OnLine January 27, 2009
Submitted by: Leon Hertzler, Newport, NH


Lyndaker, Warren Glenn
, 75, of Croghan, NY died April 17, 2009 at the same place from cancer. 

He was born August 15, 1933 at Croghan, NY to Reuben and Adah May (Lehman) Lyndaker.  Reuben was born October 16, 1897 and died December 8, 1962.  Adah May was born October 17, 1903 and died March 13, 1999.

On June 14, 1958 at Castorland, NY he was married to Nancy Yvonne Dennison, who was born January 9, 1940 and survives.

Surviving are three sons, Scott and Kelly Lyndaker, Todd Lyndaker, and Brett Lyndaker, six grandchildren, and siblings: LaJune Lehman, Muriel Smoker, Ramona Zehr, Kermit and Edith Lyndaker, Rhea Hunkins, and Sharon and Wilbur Moser.

A brother, Elwood Lyndaker preceded him in death.

He was a third generation dairy farmer on his parent's farm; Milk inspector for
Lowville Producer's Cooperative; Member of First Mennonite Church where he was a long-time trustee and usher; ASCS committeeman; Director of Dairylea Cooperative; Founding director of Northern NY Farmer's Market; Founding member, director and past President of Lewis County Maple Producers, and American Maple Museum in Croghan, NY.

Memorial services were held April 20, 2009 at First Mennonite Church of New Bremen, Lowville, Lewis County, New York with burial in the adjoining cemetery.

Submitted by: Geneva Virkler, Lowville, NY
Edited by: Thelma Hoover Martin


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