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.
2021
S2
Snyder, Ann M. Diller, M.D.
March 18, 1946 - September 11, 2021
Columbus - Ann M. Snyder, M.D., age 75, of Columbus, formerly of Orrville, had her sunset early on Saturday morning, September 11, 2021, at Kobacker House Hospice in Columbus, following a period of declining health.
Ann's sunrise was on March 18 of 1946, in Wooster, Ohio, to the late Lester and Rose (Amstutz) Diller and married Randall J. Snyder, Ph.D., on June 18, 1972, in Orrville, Ohio, and they have been happily married for the last 49 years.
She graduated from Orrville High School with the class of 1964, obtained her Bachelor's Degree from Bluffton University, then graduated medical school from The Ohio State University in 1970, worked for Chemical Abstracts Service, and then completed her Residency through Ohio State. After completing her residency, Ann worked as a psychiatrist for her own private practice and in other public mental health organizations for over 30 years, retiring in 2017.
Ann was a member of Columbus Mennonite Church, and the Central Ohio Machine Knitters. She enjoyed machine knitting shawls and afghans, and had given shawls to over 100 families who had recently lost loved ones. She also enjoyed gardening, taking care of her house plants, completing jigsaw puzzles, and researching her family's genealogy.
Surviving are her husband, Randall J. Snyder, Ph.D., of Columbus; her sister, Mary (John) Lauback of Perrysburg, OH; two nephews, David (Stephanie) Lauback of Jonesville, MI, and James Lauback of Perrysburg; one great nephew and one great nephew on the way.
She was preceded in death by her parents.
Private family interment will be held at Salem Mennonite Cemetery in Dalton with Pastor Kevin Himes officiating.
A livestreamed memorial service will be announced at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Columbus Mennonite Church or to Bluffton University, c/o Auble Funeral Home, 512 E. Oak St., Orrville, OH 44691.
Auble Funeral Home in Orrville is handling the arrangements. Online registry and expressions of condolence may be made at www.aublefuneralhome.com.
The family would like to thank Riverside Hospital and Kobacker Hospice House for the excellent care and compassion they provided to Ann over the past few weeks.
Sollenberger, Erma Mae Zimmerman
April 11, 1934 - February 1, 2021
Erma Mae Sollenberger, 86, of Mechanicsburg, PA, passed away Monday, February 1, 2021 at Messiah Village. She was born in Hummelstown, PA on April 11, 1934 to the late Paul M. Zimmerman, Sr., and Naomi (Longenecker) Zimmerman.
Erma graduated from Messiah Academy in 1952 and then earned her nursing degree at Harrisburg School of Nursing in 1956. She worked as a registered nurse at various hospitals before working at Messiah Village as a nurse. Erma was a member of Slate Hill Mennonite Church. She enjoyed making ceramics, needle work, crocheting, and her flowers.
Erma is survived by her loving husband, Ira B. Sollenberger; three children, Marcus A. Sollenberger and wife Glenna of Dallas, TX, Henry L. Sollenberger of Sharon, PA and Melanie J. Sollenberger of Mt. Joy, PA; five siblings, George Zimmerman of Thompsontown, Grace Wallet, Paul Zimmerman Jr., and Jay Zimmerman all of Mechanicsburg, and Eunice Martin of Ephrata, PA and her two grandchildren Paul and Hope Sollenberger. She was preceded in death by her brother The Rev. Norman Zimmerman.
Memorial Services will be held privately.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Slate Hill Mennonite Church, 1352 Slate Hill Road, Camp Hill, PA 17011
Sowers, Sharon Diane
December 19, 1949 - January 10, 2021
Sharon Diane Sowers, 71, Topeka, died 4:25 p.m. Sunday, January 10, 2021 at Parkview Regional Medical Center, Fort Wayne. She was born December 19, 1949 in Elkhart to Richard & Esther (Lechlitner) Sowers Sr.
Surviving are a sister, Linda Waddell, Topeka and brothers, Randall Sowers Lagrange and Richard Sowers Jr, Lagrange.
Preceding her in death are her parents and a brother, Floyd Sowers.
Sharon was a member of the former Topeka Mennonite Church.
Graveside services will be 10 a.m. Thursday, January 14, 2021, at Olive (East) Cemetery. Memorial donations may be directed to the donor’s choice.
Rieth-Rohrer-Ehret Funeral Home, Goshen, is handling arrangements.
Stauffer, Anna Belle
February 21, 1930 - February 18, 2021
Anna Belle Stauffer, 90, of Goshen died at her home Thursday, February 18, 2021.
She was born February 21, 1930 in Smoketown, Pennsylvania to Peter and Amanda (Stoltzfus) Stauffer.
Survivors include four sisters, Mary Nissley of Harrisonburg, Virginia, Verna Swartzentruber of Chapin, South Carolina, Ruth Stoll of Hillsdale, Michigan and Marian (Doyle) Carpenter, Centreville, Michigan; a brother-in-law, Mike Showalter of Goshen; two sisters-in-law, Leah Stauffer of Sturgis, Michigan and Clara Stauffer of Elkhart; and many beloved nieces and nephews.
Along with her parents, she was preceded in death by two brothers, Melvin and Crist Stauffer, and a sister, Elsie Showalter.
Anna Belle attended Eastern Mennonite (College) University, Harrisonburg, Virginia and Rosedale Bible Institute, Plain City, Ohio. She enjoyed children and spent many years as a Christian elementary school teacher in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania and Plain City, Ohio. She also enjoyed music and singing.
She was a member of Living Water Mennonite Church, Goshen. A highlight for her was touring the Holy Land with Heralds of Hope in 1977.
Visitation will begin one hour prior to the 10:30 a.m. funeral service on Monday, February 22, 2021 at Living Water Mennonite Church, Goshen.
Burial will follow at Woodlawn Cemetery, Goshen.
Memorial gifts may be directed to Living Water Mennonite Church, 65215 Co Rd 27, Goshen, IN 46526.
Stauffer, Anna H. Nolt
March 11, 1926 - April 28, 2021
Anna H. Stauffer, 95, of 382 Ranck's Church Rd., New Holland, died Wednesday, April 28, 2021 at her home following a brief illness. She was preceded in death by her husband, Daniel W. Stauffer in January 1999.
Born in Earl Twp., she was the daughter of the late Elam B. and Katie M. (Horning) Nolt.
Anna was a homemaker and a member of Weaverland Mennonite Church, Groffdale Conference.
Surviving are six children: Alvin married to Lizzie (Zeiset) Stauffer, New Holland, Edward married to Lena (Brubaker) Stauffer, Narvon, Raymond married to Emma (Sensenig) Stauffer, Fortuna, MO, Elva Stauffer, New Holland, Lloyd Stauffer, New Holland, Ivan married to Anna (Sensenig) Stauffer, New Holland, 37 grandchildren, 102 great-grandchildren, four great-great-grandchildren and a sister Lucy Martin, Penn Yan, NY.
She was preceded in death by a daughter-in-law Florence (Hoover) Stauffer, two grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, three sisters, and seven brothers.
Her funeral will be held on Tuesday, May 4, 2021 at 9:30 a.m. at Weaverland Mennonite Church with Bishop Titus Martin officiating. Interment in the adjoining church cemetery. A viewing will be held at the late home on Monday from 2 – 4 p.m. and 6 – 8 p.m. Kindly omit flowers. The Groff-High Funeral Home, New Holland is in charge of arrangements.
Stauffer, Elva J. Martin
March 6, 1926 - April 5, 2021
Elva J. Stauffer, who celebrated her 95th birthday on March 6th, of Ephrata, passed away on Monday, April 5, 2021, at WellSpan Ephrata Community Hospital.
She was born in New Holland to the late William Z. and Anna M. Martin and was the wife of the late Aaron Z. Stauffer.
She was a member of Hinkletown Mennonite Church.
Elva was the owner of Cloister Restaurant for 46 years and operated it with her son Ron. She drove for Ephrata Ambulance for 27 years until age 80 and was member of the Farm Women's Association. She enjoyed traveling to Hawaii, Thailand, South Africa, where she rode an ostrich, Alaska and China. Elva also traveled to Russian on four mission trips with Cross Keys Ministry. She loved going to auctions and having garage sales and found a new love of jig saw puzzles in her final months.
She enjoyed spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Elva is survived by three children, Ronald, husband of Bonnie S. (Crowther) Stauffer, Clark R., husband of Cheryl (Goodling) Stauffer, both of Ephrata, Shirley J., wife of Fred Redekop of Elmira, Ontario; eight grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren and a brother, Leon Z., husband of Clara (Burkholder) Martin of Ephrata.
In addition to her husband and parents, she was preceded in death by four sisters, Mary Ellen, Anna Magdalena, Lydia Z., and Elsie Mae; five brothers, Paul Z., Harvey Z., William Z., Landis Z. and Louis Earl and a daughter-in-law, Lucy (Hess) Stauffer.
A viewing will be held on Thursday, April 15, 2021, from 6 to 8 PM at the Hinkletown Mennonite Church, 2031 28th Division Highway, Ephrata. An additional viewing will be held on Friday, April 16, 2021, from 9 to 10AM, at the church, followed by funeral services at 10:00 AM with Pastors Glenn Sauder and Jerold Martin officiating. COVID guidelines will be followed, masks are requested. Interment will take place in the adjoining church cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Elva's memory may be made to Hospice & Community Care, P.O. Box 4125, Lancaster, PA, 17604.
Arrangements by Stradling Funeral Homes, Inc., Akron/Ephrata.
Stauffer, Ernest Z.
January 23, 1963 - August 15, 2021
Ernest Z. Stauffer, 58, of Rutledge, Missouri, passed away Sunday afternoon, August 15, 2021, while riding horses with his wife north of Memphis, Missouri. Ernest was born on January 23, 1963, in Leonardtown, St. Mary's County, Maryland, the son of John and Civilla Zimmerman Stauffer.
On September 24, 1988, Ernest married Marjorie Zimmerman and they lived in Tunas, Missouri, till their move to Rutledge, Missouri, where Ernest had a dairy farm. He most recently was employed by Sensenig Trucking as a feed truck driver.
Ernest was a loving husband and father and will be dearly missed. He enjoyed the outdoors, especially camping and horseback riding.
He attended Indian Creek Mennonite Church south of Memphis, Missouri.
He is survived by his wife Marjorie; a son Conrad of the home; mother, Civilla of Tunas, Missouri; brothers and sisters, Ella, Susan and Miriam all of Tunas, Missouri, Luther (Diann) of Vandalia, Illinois, Nathan (Gloria) of Tunas, Missouri, Mabel of Mechanicsville, Maryland, Laura (Johnathan Wenger), Edna, Julia (Dwayne Bauman), and Arlene (Bryan Horst) all of Tunas, Missouri; along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and a host of friends.
Ernest was preceded in death by a son, Lyle Grant Stauffer; and his father, John Stauffer.
Funeral Services will be at 9:30 a.m. Friday, August 20, 2021, at the Indian Creek Mennonite Church south of Memphis, Missouri.
Visitation will be from 2:00 to 4:00 and 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Thursday, August 19, 2021, at the Hillcrest Mennonite Community Center south of Memphis, Missouri.
Burial will be in the Indian Creek Mennonite Cemetery south of Memphis, Missouri.
Officiating will be Luke Fox, Talmon Martin, Leonard Musser, and Nathan Stauffer. Casket Bearers will be Barry Zimmerman, Dean Ray Zimmerman, Gene Zimmerman, Nathan Stauffer, Dennis Sloan, and Darrel Stauffer.
The family requests no flowers, only your presence and condolences.
Memphis Funeral Home of Memphis, Missouri is assisting the family.
Stauffer, Horace R.
October 24, 1927 - April 8, 2021
Horace R. Stauffer, 93, of Ephrata, passed away on Thursday, April 8, 2021 at Fairmount Homes.
He was married to his wife Mary B. Stauffer for 72 years, who preceded him in death.
Born in Ephrata, he was the son of David W. and Mary (Reich) Stauffer.
He worked as a miller for Sensenig's Feed Mill for 47 years until his retirement. He was a member of Centerville Mennonite Church.
He is survived by two sons: Kenneth (Carolene Trego) Stauffer, Clifford (Mary Oberholtzer) Stauffer and a daughter Kathleen (Timothy) Nissley, nine grandchildren, ten great-grandchildren, a sister Beatrice Stauffer and a brother Lloyd (Etta Zimmerman) Stauffer.
His funeral will be held on Tuesday, April 13, 2021 at 10 a.m. at Centerville Mennonite Church. Interment will be in the adjoining church cemetery. A viewing will be held at the church on Monday from 2 – 4 and 6 – 8 p.m. Kindly omit flowers. The Eckenroth Home for Funerals, Terre Hill is in charge of arrangements.
Stauffer, John S.
August 21, 1926 - April 16, 2021
John S. Stauffer, age 94, of Elizabethville, passed away Friday, April 16, 2021 at the home of his daughter in Annville.
He was born on Saturday, August 21, 1926, in Ephrata, a son of the late Harvey F Stauffer and the late Maggie R Stauffer.
John was a carpenter and painter prior to his retirement.
He was a member of the Hegins Valley Mennonite Church, Hegins.
His wife Lena S Stauffer, to whom he was married for sixty-five years, passed away on February 8, 2021. He was also preceded in death by his parents; by two sons, Samuel W Stauffer and Percy W Stauffer; three brothers Willis, Phares, and Henry Stauffer; and five sisters Elsie Martin, Grace Weaver, Florence Stauffer, Louella Stauffer, and Gladys Martin.
He is survived by a daughter, Twila W Kreider and her husband Carl of Annville; two sons, Timothy W Stauffer and his wife Barbara of East Freedom and Jonathan W Stauffer and his wife LaJane of Elizabethville; twenty-four grandchildren; forty-four great grandchildren; a sister, Jeanetta Stauffer of Athens, WI; and numerous nieces and nephews.
A viewing will be held from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm on Tuesday, April 20, 2021, at the Hegins Valley Mennonite Church, Hegins.
Funeral services will be held at the church on Wednesday, April 21, 2021, at 10:00 am.
Burial will be made in the Hegins Valley Mennonite Church Cemetery, Hegins.
Buffington-Reed Funeral Home, Valley View, is in charge of arrangements.
Stauffer, Joseph S.
April 6, 1932 - December 1, 2021
Joseph S. Stauffer, 89, of Ephrata, entered into rest on Wednesday, December 1, 2021, at home.
He was born in Ephrata Township, a son of the late Levi S. and Stella B. (Stahl) Stauffer. He was the husband of the late Esther Z. (Martin) Stauffer.
Joseph was a member of Heritage Mennonite Church.
Joseph is survived by his children, Naomi M. (the late Martin R.) Auker of Liverpool, PA, Ruth M. (Luke B.) Stauffer of Indiana, PA, Miriam M. (Nathaniel B.) Stauffer of Leonardtown, MD, Aaron M., (Joanna B.) Stauffer of Manton, MI, Joseph M. (Heidi S.) Stauffer of Homer City, PA, James M. (Elizabeth S.) Stauffer of Leonardtown, MD, Mark M. (Rosetta B.) Stauffer of Liverpool, PA, Esther M. (Noah M.) Stauffer of Ephrata, PA; 77 grandchildren; 81 great-grandchildren; brothers, Levi S. Stauffer of Long Island, NY, Clair S. (Cindy E.) Stauffer of Snyder Co., PA, Mark S. Stauffer of Laurys Station, PA, Robert S. (Karen J.) Stauffer of Freeburg, PA, and sisters, Mary S. Clark of Laurys Station, PA, Arlene S. (Myron E.) Steffen of McClure, PA.
In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by two granddaughters, Marilyn S. Weaver, Kathy S. Stauffer; brothers, Harold S. Stauffer, Edwin S. Stauffer, Timothy S. Stauffer and Nathan S. Stauffer (stillborn), and a sister, Elizabeth M. Stauffer.
A viewing will be held on Monday, December 6, 2021, from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 PM at the residence of Noah Stauffer, 196 Parkview Heights Road, Ephrata. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, December 7, 2021, at 8:00 AM at the residence of Noah Stauffer with further services at 9:30 AM from the Stauffer Mennonite Church, 28th Division Highway, Ephrata. Interment will take place in the adjoining church cemetery.
Kindly omit flowers.
Arrangements by Stradling Funeral Homes, Inc., Akron/Ephrata.
Stauffer, Lena S. Weaver
July 1, 1924 - February 8, 2021
Lena S. Stauffer, age 96, of Elizabethville PA, passed away Monday, February 8, 2021 at her residence.
She was born on Tuesday, July 1, 1924, in New Holland, a daughter of the late John A Weaver and the late Annie B (Stauffer) Weaver.
She was a member of Hegins Valley Mennonite Church, Hegins PA.
She was preceded in death by her parents; by two sons, Samuel W Stauffer and Percy W Stauffer, seven brothers, James, Jacob, Martin, Levi, John, Enos, and an infant brother, and seven sisters, Mary, Katie Zimmerman, Lydia, Annie Horst, Mabel, Maggie, and Frances.
She is survived by her husband John S Stauffer, to whom she was married for 65 years.
She is also survived by a daughter, Twila W Kreider and her husband Carl of Annville; two sons, Timothy W Stauffer and his wife Barbara of East Freedom, and Jonathan W Stauffer and his wife LaJane of Elizabethville; twenty-four grandchildren; forty three great grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.
A viewing was held from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm and from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm on Sunday, February 14, 2021, at Hegins Valley Mennonite Church, Hegins.
Funeral services was held at the Hegins Valley Mennonite Church, on Monday, February 15, 2021, at 10:00 am.
Burial was in the Hegins Valley Mennonite Church Cemetery, Hegins.
Stauffer, MyShaun Andrew
September 5, 2008 - June 22, 2021
MyShaun Andrew Stauffer, 12, of Liverpool, went to be with his Savior on Tuesday, June 22, 2021, due to complications from an allergic reaction.
He was born Sept. 5, 2008, in Harrisburg, a beloved son of Brian and Marie (Martin) Stauffer.
Apart from this past school year when he was lovingly taught by his mother, he attended Maranatha Christian School in Watsontown.
He was very active at Susquehanna Mennonite Church in Port Trevorton where he took every opportunity to serve others, even in his young life. "A friend loveth at all times." Prov. 17:17.
In addition to his parents, MyShaun is survived and dearly loved by his brother, Michael; sister, Rosita; maternal grandparents, Harvey and Gladys Martin; paternal grandmother, Alice Stauffer; and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his paternal grandfather, John Stauffer; aunt, Charlene Auker; uncle, Luke Auker; and cousins, Ricky Brubaker and Joshua Martin.
The family would like to express their deepest gratitude for all the acts of love, support, and prayers during this time of need. They also thank the team of physicians and nurses at Penn State Hershey Children's Hospital for the wonderful care MyShaun received from them.
Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Monday, June 28, at Crossroads Mennonite Church, 2066 Winey Road, Richfield, with Pastor Sylvan Martin, Bishop Conrad Brubaker, and Pastor Randall Stauffer officiating. Interment will follow in Susquehanna Mennonite Church Cemetery, Port Trevorton.
A viewing will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. Sunday, June 27, and from 9 a.m. until the time of the funeral services at 10 a.m. Monday, June 28, all being held from the Crossroads Mennonite Church, Richfield.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in MyShaun's memory may be made to the Susquehanna Mennonite Church, 1852 Peffer Valley Road, Port Trevorton, PA 17864.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the Brown Funeral Homes, Inc., 111 Westfall St., McAlisterville.
Stauffer, Nora B. Martin
March 5, 1949 - April 28, 2021
Nora B. Stauffer, 72, of Mount Pleasant Mills, entered into rest on Wednesday, April 28, 2021, at her residence surrounded by family.
She was born on March 5, 1949, in East Earl Twp., Lancaster, a daughter of the late Allen and Anna (Brubaker) Martin. On Jan. 6, 1968, she married E. Vernon Stauffer, who survives.
Nora was a member of the Bethel Mennonite Church, Mt. Pleasant Mills.
Surviving in addition to her husband of 53 years, Vernon, is one son and daughter-in-law, Kenneth and Carolyn Stauffer of Mount Pleasant Mills; three grandchildren; siblings, Allen Martin of Port Trevorton, Harvey and wife Gladys Martin of Port Trevorton, Ruth Wanner of Port Trevorton, AnnaMary Wanner of Port Trevorton, Sally and husband Martin Wanner of Port Trevorton, Sylvan Martin of Port Trevorton, Nathan and Irene Martin of Scottsville, KY, Nancy and husband Robert Martin of McAlisterville, Judith Good of Port Trevorton, Arlene Martin of Columbia Crossroads, PA, and David and wife Marian Martin of Port Trevorton
She was preceded in death by a stepsister; one sister-in-law, Martha Martin, and three brothers-in-law, William Wanner, Samuel Wanner, and Richard Good.
Family and friends are invited to the viewing from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. on Friday, April 30, 2021, at Bethel Mennonite Church, 1377 Martin Bros. Road, Mt. Pleasant Mills. The funeral will be at 10 a.m. on Saturday, May 1, 2021 at Shade Mountain Mennonite Church, 134 Center Rd, Mount Pleasant Mills, with the home ministry officiating.
Interment will be in the Bethel Mennonite Church Cemetery.
Funeral arrangements are by Dominick T. Adamo Funerals · Cremations · Monuments, 16 Walnut Street, Mifflinburg.
Steiner, Jesse W.
March 7, 1957 - October 28, 2021
Jesse W. Steiner, 64 of Millersburg passed away Thursday, October 28, surrounded by family at Aultman Hospital of Covid pneumonia.
Jesse was born in Orrville, Ohio, March 7, 1957. He was the son of the late Willis Wilbert and Celesta Nussbaum Steiner. He married Dorothy R. Wengerd on April 8 1977. He was a dairy farmer for many years and more recently owned and operated Tranquil Acres Cabins.
Dearly loved, he will be greatly missed by his wife, Dorothy; children, Tim (Jennifer Lujan), Gary (Leanna Yoder), Cindy (Aaron Weaver), Lamar (Laticia Stoll); grandchildren, Carmine, Christopher, Steven, Kimberly, Thomas, Courtney, Aaron, Olivia, Mayven; and siblings, Merlin (Lena) Steiner (both deceased), Luella (Herb) Geiser, Mildred (Jake, deceased) Coblentz, Arvada (Wayne) Beachy, Clair (Martha) Steiner, Irene (Eddie) Smith, Kathryn (Dewey) Miller, Daniel (Mary) Steiner, Jonathan (Ellen) Steiner.
His family was very close to his heart and he loved them dearly! Lots of Children loved him and he was called “The Smartie Man.”
He had an incredibly compassionate and giving heart. He loved spending time with people and working together on projects with family and friends.
Funeral service will be Monday, November 1st at 10:00 a.m. at United Dayspring Mennonite Church, 4955 State Route 39, Millersburg, Ohio 44654. Viewing will be Sunday, October 31st from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. at the church.
Steiner, Louis Eldon
February 1, 1936 - October 22, 2021
COLUMBIANA – Louis Eldon Steiner, 85 passed away peacefully on Friday, October 22, 2021 at his home.
Louis was born February 1, 1936 near Dalton, OH; he was the son of the late Enos and Sarah (Basinger) Steiner.
He accepted Christ as his Savior in his youth and was a faithful member and bishop of Pleasant View Mennonite Church.
He was a self-employed dairy farmer. On November 17, 1957 he was married to Mable VanPelt. She preceded him in death on July 19, 2006.
He is survived by five daughters, Mrs. Kent (Dorothy) Zimmerman of Goshen, IN, Mrs. Jason (Iva) Witmer and Mrs. Nathan (Charlotte) VanPelt of Columbiana, Katherine Steiner at home, and Mrs. Milton (Sue Ann) Weaver of Wooster; a son, John (Louise) Steiner of Columbiana, 34 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.
Louis was preceded in death by two grandchildren, Gary Steiner and Sylvia Witmer, one brother Paul Steiner, one sister Ruth Steiner, and one brother and one sister in infancy.
Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, October 27, 2021 at 10:00 a.m. at Mt. Joy Mennonite Church, 549 Chestnut Street, Leetonia, OH 44431 with Paul Zimmerman officiating. 0.
The family will receive friends on Tuesday, October 26 at 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. at Salem Mennonite Church, 40725 Lodge Road, Leetonia, OH 44431.
The family suggests in lieu of flowers memorial contributions be made to Community Hospice, 2341 E State St suite b, Salem, OH 44460.
The family has entrusted Seederly-Mong & Beck Funeral Home in Columbiana, Ohio with the arrangements for their loved one.
Stoltzfus, Eldon Roy
August 25, 1948 - January 24, 2021
Eldon Roy Stoltzfus departed this life on Sunday, January 24, 2021, surrounded by family at home after a year of difficult health struggles.
Eldon was born on August 25, 1948, in Pottstown, Pennsylvania, the first-born of Roy Mast Stoltzfus and Lois Ehst Stoltzfus. He grew up on Maryland’s Eastern Shore and after attending grade school and high school in Snow Hill, graduated from Lancaster Mennonite School in 1966. It was there he met his life partner Rachel Elaine Lehman Stoltzfus. They were married in 1971; in August it would be fifty years.
Eldon integrated learning and service. He studied at Eastern Mennonite University and graduated from Salisbury State University in 1974. But he interrupted his college years to serve in the Congo in the PAX program as his Alternative Service to the Vietnam war. This experience influenced his future by gifting him with a love of cultures and French language fluency. So, when presented with the opportunity to serve once more, Eldon and Rachel took their tiny firstborn to Haiti in 1974 where in the next two years Eldon traveled around Haiti as leader of International Child Care’s Crusade Against Tuberculosis immunization program. An invitation to lead what became the Integrated Rural Development under the auspices of an association of churches in South Haiti followed. In 1977-1980 Eldon developed a team of health, agriculture specialists and their Haitian counterparts so they would be equipped to continue without him.
Eldon began studying Associated Mennonite Biblical Seminary in 1980 to give continuing service a biblical foundation and graduated in 1982 with a Master of Arts in Peace Studies. Ready to re-engage once more, Eldon and Rachel with their family returned to Haiti in 1982 to partner as Country Representatives for MCC’s program there for the next five years. His years in Haiti and study at AMBS provided guidance for the rest of his life as the family moved to Sarasota in 1987.
From 1988 to 2001 Eldon worked in various capacities with Mennonite Mutual Aid (Everence), and similar agencies to provide congregations in regions across the US with mutual aid resources.
In 2002 Eldon’s vocational path shifted as he began a year’s residency with Lutheran Hospital’s Clinical Pastoral Education, followed by two years as interim pastor at Bonneyville Mennonite Church and six years at Forks Mennonite Church. He volunteered as chaplain at Goshen Hospital and eventually worked as chaplain with Goshen Hospice for 10 years. Eldon believed deeply that walking with those on the end of life journey was holy work and he was known as the singing chaplain. Eldon retired in 2018 but Anabaptist Disabilities Network’s need for an Executive Director felt like a calling and that last year of work brought him both joy and satisfaction.
Eldon is survived by his wife, Rachel Lehman Stoltzfus; son Daniel and Angela (Link) Stoltzfus, granddaughters Samantha and Josephine; son Philippe and Rosa (Oseguera) Stoltzfus, grandsons Ethan, Angel, and Javier; and daughter Belinda Bradford, grandchildren Khalid, Kassandra, Keshawn, Diamma, Dreamma, Amasia, Mirakal; siblings, Lowell (Sharon) Stoltzfus; Carol Vickory; Jay (Nancy) Stoltzfus; Mary Beth (Jerry) Bozman; and brother-in-law Conrad (Jill) Lehman. His father-in-law Martin Lehman also survives. Eldon was preceded in death by his parents, mother-in-law Rhoda Lehman; brother Mervin; and grandson JaQuan.
Eldon was happiest when he knew he was making a difference in the lives of others. Faith in God’s love and grace was rooted deep within him. He expressed respect and appreciation for all of the various cultures he came in contact with. Each relationship and friendship was important to him, years old and more recent, he remembered and cherished them all.
Strite, Anna May Martin
November 25, 1928 - December 19, 2021
Anna May Strite, 93, of Clear Spring, Md., passed away Sunday, Dec. 19, 2021, at her home in Clear Spring, Md. surrounded by her loving family.
Born Nov. 25, 1928, in Washington County, Md., she was a daughter of the late Jacob E. Martin and Martha B. (Horst) Martin.
Anna May was a homemaker and a member of Lanes Run Mennonite Church in Big Pool, Md. She willingly supported her husband serving in church work, visiting and witnessing in the community, opening her heart and her home to many. Anna May fervently prayed for her children and grandchildren and leaves a legacy of faithfulness to her Heavenly Father.
She is survived by her husband of 71 years, Allen E. Strite of Clear Spring; two daughters, Ruth Ann Strite and Mary Spoonire and husband, Richard, all of Hagerstown; foster daughter, Christina Baker of Hagerstown; three sons, Mark Strite and wife, Martha Ann, of Clear Spring, Carl Strite and wife, Miriam, of Harrisonburg, Va., and Luke Strite and wife, Jean, of Waynesboro, Pa.; two sisters, Doris Martin of Maugansville and Fannie Eby of Hagerstown; 16 grandchildren; 39 great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.
In addition to her parents, Anna was preceded in death by a sister, Grace Martin.
Services will be held on Thursday, Dec. 23, 2021, at 2 p.m. at Mt. Olive Mennonite Church, 13305 Maugansville Road, Hagerstown, Md., with the Lanes Run and Mt. Olive ministries officiating. Interment will follow in the adjoining church cemetery.
The family will receive friends at Mt. Olive Mennonite Church Wednesday from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. and one hour prior to the service on Thursday from 1 to 2 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Horizon Mennonite School, c/o Vaughn Martin, 14635 Daley Road, Hagerstown, MD 21740.
Stutzman, Anna Mae Chupp
October 13, 1939 - December 8, 2021
Anna Mae (Chupp) Stutzman, age 82 of Nappanee, IN, passed away peacefully at 12:45pm, Wednesday, December 8, 2021 after a lengthy battle with Alzheimer's. She was born on October 13, 1939 in Nappanee to Floyd and Mary Ann (Miller) Chupp. Anna Mae was a member of the Old Order Amish Church.
On April 2, 1959 she married Melvin E. Stutzman in Etna Green, IN. He survives along with their 8 children: Mark (Joan) Stutzman of Etna Green, Everet Stutzman of Elkhart, Leon (Carol) Stutzman of Nappanee, Susan Stutzman of Nappanee, Kristine Stutzman of Nappanee, Norma Stutzman of Nappanee, David (Pauline) Stutzman of New Paris, IN, and Anna Ruth Stutzman of Nappanee; 19 grandchildren; 28 great grandchildren; 4 sisters, Edna Chupp of Nappanee, Katie Bontrager of Shipshewana, IN, Elva Helmuth of Nappanee, and Martha (Toby) Yoder of Goshen, IN; 3 sisters-in-law: Ellen Chupp of Nappanee, Minerva Chupp of Nappanee, and Sylvia Chupp of Spencer, WI.
Mrs. Stutzman was preceded in death by her parents; a son, Gene Lamar Stutzman; grandson, Jason Stutzman; 6 brothers: Elmer, John, Dan, William, Lamar, and Emery Chupp; 4 sisters-in-law: Katie, Beverly, Dorothy, and Amanda Chupp; 2 brothers-in-law, Perry Bontrager and Lee Helmuth.
Friends and family may call after 2 pm on Thursday, December 9, 2021 and all day on Friday, December 10, 2021 at the Devon Schwartz residence (8099 N 800 W, Etna Green, IN). Funeral services will be held at 9:30am, Saturday, December 11, 2021 also at the Devon Schwartz residence. Home Ministries of the Old Order Amish Church will officiate and burial will take place at Graber Cemetery, Nappanee. Arrangements are with Thompson-Lengacher and Yoder Funeral Home, Nappanee.
Stutzman, Frieda Schmucker
January 3, 1936 - May 14, 2021
Frieda Stutzman, age 85 of Nappanee, IN, died at 5:00am on Friday, May 14, 2021 at Miller’s Merry Manor in Wakarusa, IN of natural causes. Frieda was born on January 3, 1936 in Bremen, IN to Oscar H. and Katie (Schmucker) Schmucker.
Mrs. Stutzman lived her entire life in the Nappanee, IN area and married Lloyd H. Stutzman on November 22, 1956 in Nappanee, IN. He preceded her in death on February 10, 2018. Mrs. Stutzman was a member of the Old Order Amish Church.
She is survived by her 6 sons, LaVern (Lou Ida) Stutzman of Nappanee, IN, Arlen (Louise) Stutzman of Goshen, IN, Gary (Barbara) Stutzman of Nappanee, IN, Paul (Marla) Stutzman of Nappanee, IN, Jerry Stutzman of Topeka, IN and Kevin (Mary Jane) Stutzman of Etna Green, IN; 3 daughters Katherine (Paul) Miller of Nappanee, IN, Kathleen (Steve) Yoder of Etna Green, IN and Linda (David) Bontrager of Nappanee, IN; 30 grandchildren; 40great grandchildren; 5 brothers, Homer (Karen) Schmucker of Milford, IN, Raymond (Kathryn) Schmucker of VA, Oscar Jr. (Laura) Schmucker of Bremen, IN, Lamar (Lois) Schmucker of Ligonier, IN and Gary (Susan) Schmucker of Bremen; and 2 sisters, Vera (Ola) Yoder of Nappanee, IN and Esther Miller of Millersburg, IN.
Mrs. Stutzman was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; 1 grandson Brian Stutzman; 3 sisters, Velma Miller, Clara Schmucker and Margaret Schmucker; 2 brothers-in-law Perry Miller and Ray Miller; and 1 sister-in-law, Joanna Schmucker.
Friends and family may call at the David Bontrager residence (29627 CR 52, Nappanee, IN) after 1pm on Saturday, May 15, 2021 and all day on Sunday, May 16, 2021. Funeral services will also be held at the David Bontrager residence at 9:30 am on Monday, May 17, 2021 with home ministries of the Old Order Amish Church officiating. Burial will take place at Weldy Cemetery, Nappanee, IN.
Stutzman, Harvey, Jr.
March 9, 1941 - July 9, 2021
Harvey Stutzman Jr., 80, of Shipshewana, died unexpectedly at 5:00 am on Friday, July 9 at his residence. He was born on March 9, 1941, in Etna Green, to Harvey and Rosa (Slabaugh) Stutzman. On May 14, 1964, in Shipshewana, he married Bonnie Jean Troyer; she survives.
Survivors in addition to his wife are three daughters, Ruth Ann (Wilbur) Schmucker, Sharon (Marion) Mullet, Linda (Lamar) King all of Shipshewana; four sons, Kenneth (Sharon) Stutzman, Loren (Miriam) Stutzman, David Stutzman, Leon (Lovina) Stutzman all of Shipshewana; son-in-law, Mahlon (special friend Doris Bontrager) Bontrager of Shipshewana; 37 grandchildren, 33 great-grandchildren; sister, Kathryn (Earl) Yoder of Nappanee; brother-in-law, Herman Yoder of Nappanee.
He was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Rebecca Jean Bontrager; grandson, Mark Allen Stutzman; brother, Lloyd H. Stutzman; two sisters, Fern Yoder, Tressie Helmuth; brother-in-law, Edwin Helmuth; sister-in-law, Frieda Stutzman; step sister-in-law, Edna Helmuth.
Harvey was a farmer and a member of the Old Order Amish Church.
Visitation will be after 2:00 pm on Saturday, July 10 and all day Sunday, July 11 at the Harley Bender residence, 7060 W. 100 N., Shipshewana. Funeral services will be at 9:30 am on Monday, July 12 also at the Harley Bender residence. Services will be conducted by Bishop Gerald Troyer and the home ministers. Burial will be in Naylor Cemetery, Shipshewana.
Stutzman, Ruby Marie Miller
June 28, 1938 - September 20, 2021
Ruby Marie (Miller) Stutzman, age 83, died at 7:25pm on Monday, September 20, 2021, after a 1-year battle with cancer. She was born on June 28, 1938, to Levi A. and Ella C (Troyer) Miller. On February 24, 1959, she married Floyd D. Stutzman in Shipshewana, IN. Ruby was a homemaker and a member of the Old Order Amish Church.
Surviving are her children; Ernest (Pollyanna) Stutzman, Middlebury, IN; Norman (Rosemary) Stutzman, Nappanee, IN; Vernon (Loretta) Stutzman, Shipshewana, IN; Herman (Mary Ann) Stutzman, Plymouth, IN; LaVerne (Rose Ellen) Stutzman, Etna Green, IN; Dennis (Becky) Stutzman, Plymouth, IN; Ruth (Howard) Helmuth, Wolcottville, IN; Dorothy (Jonathon) Helmuth, Clinton, OH; Wilma (Rudy) Otto, Arthur, IL; 71 grandchildren; 81 great grandchildren; 2 brothers; Levi Jr. Miller, Colorado; Orva Miller, LaGrange, IN; sister-in-law, Edna Miller, Shipshewana, IN; and a step sister-in-law, Edna Mast, Shipshewana, IN.
Ruby was preceded in death by her husband, Floyd; daughter, Rose Anna Stutzman; her parents; great granddaughter, Jessica Lyn Stutzman; brother, Alva Miller; brother and sister-in-law, Vernon and Treva Miller; sister and brother-in-law, Wilma and Felty Mast; and sister and brother-in-law, Mary and Ervin Mast.
Friends and family may call after 4pm on Tuesday, September 21, 2021, and all day Wednesday, September 22 at the family residence (7065 W 1000 N, Nappanee). Funeral services will be on Thursday, September 23, at 9:30am also at the family residence. Home Ministry of the Old Order Amish Church will officiate and burial will be in Graber Cemetery. Arrangements are with Thompson-Lengacher & Yoder Funeral Home, Nappanee.
Swartzentruber, Dwaine
June 27, 1944 - january 1, 2021
Dwaine Swartzentruber, 76, of Goshen, died Friday, January 1, 2021, at Goshen Hospital after battling COVID for two weeks.
He was born June 27, 1944 in Loogootee to David and Lydia (Graber) Swartzentruber.
On May 15, 1965, he married Thelma Maust.
She survives along with three children, Cynthia (Tom) Lee of Washington, Sheldon Swartzentruber of Goshen and David (Christy) Swartzentruber of Osceola; nine grandchildren, Cody (Natalie) Lee, Michael (Sarah) Lee, Zac (Jessie) Swartzentruber, Randi (Michael) Hampton and Megan, Jenna, Gabrielle, Morgan and Gavin Swartzentruber; six great-grandchildren, Julian, Savanna, Randy, Peyton, Scarlet and Klause; a sister, Joyce (Lowell) Leinbach of Jackson, Michigan and sister-in-law, Yvonne (Russ) Miller of Montgomery.
He was preceded in death by his parents and three siblings, Ida Mae, Ivan and Dexter Swartzentruber.
He graduated from Epsom High School, where he played basketball and baseball, in 1963. In 1966 he moved to Elkhart where he did his 1W service at Elkhart General Hospital and Faith Mission.
He moved south of Jackson, Michigan and was licensed to the Christian Ministry in December 1968 and then ordained in July 1970 by the Indiana Michigan Conference for the Liberty Mennonite Church. He ministered in several churches in the conference and also two churches in Maryland.
Dwaine was a certified plumber and had a business, Dwaine’s Plumbing, before working for Elkhart County as a plumbing and heating inspector until he retired in 2011 after 15 years.
He coached Little League and also served as a counselor at Summer Bible Camp for Bible Memory Ministries when his children were younger. Following retirement, he volunteered at Goshen Hospital as an assistant chaplain.
Dwaine enjoyed Country Gospel Music and served on the Wakarusa Bluegrass Board and served as their minister on Sunday morning for the festival.
Private services will be held at Yoder-Culp Funeral Home. Pastors Jason Miller and Collier Berkshire of Living Hope Christian Fellowship, where he was a member, will officiate.
Burial will follow in Violett Cemetery.
Swartzentruber, Homer Eugene
June 20, 1938 - May 4, 2021
Homer Eugene Swartzentruber, 82, of Goshen, died peacefully on Tuesday, May 4, 2021, at Greencroft Healthcare, Goshen.
He was born on June 20, 1938, in Park View, Virginia, to Ernest and Fannie (Yoder) Swartzentruber.
Homer spent his growing up years in Virginia and Delaware and graduated from Schuyler High School in Schuyler, Virginia. He attended Eastern Mennonite University and then in 1967 earned a Bachelor of Arts in Biblical Education from Columbia Bible College (Columbia International University). He worked as a mason, pastor, real estate broker, income tax preparer, auctioneer, and driver for the Amish. He was owner of Swartzentruber Realty, Auctions, and Income Tax Service until his retirement.
Homer married Jean Kauffman on August 23, 1958, in Plain City, Ohio. During their marriage, they lived in Harrisonburg, Virginia; Sarasota, Florida; Columbia, South Carolina; Washington D.C.; Shipshewana; and Goshen. They attend Pleasant View Church, Goshen.
He is survived by his wife; two sons, Jay Swartzentruber of Florence, Alabama and Jeff (Bev) Swartzentruber of Kalona, Iowa; one daughter, Joy (Rocky) Goshert of Warsaw; six grandchildren, Morgan (Erik) Bostedt, Jessica (Ryan) Hellman, Cathrynne Swartzentruber, Samantha (Jordan) Gentry, Christian Swartzentruber, and Mariah (Jared) Schlabach; three step grandchildren, Drake (Carrie) Berghoff, Taylor Goshert, and Cody (Mary London) Goshert; eight great grandchildren; two step great grandchildren; three sisters, Thelma Chow of Lynchburg, Virginia, Alice (Norman) Raiford of Stuarts Draft, Virginia, and Rhoda Swartzentruber of Charlottesville, Virginia; two brothers, James (Peggyrose) Swartzentruber of Dallas, North Carolina and Dale (Martha) Swartzentruber of Schulyer, Virginia.
He was preceded in death by his parents, a sister Nancy (Jim) Lapp, and a grandson Brian Christopher Swartzentruber.
Arrangements for services will be posted as soon as they are finalized.
Sweigart, Alma Mae Weaver
April 24, 1936 - December 30, 2021
Jonestown - Alma Mae Sweigart, 85, of Jonestown, passed over to her heavenly home on Thursday, December 30, 2021, at the home of her daughter with whom she resided. She was the wife of the late Wilmer S. Sweigart, who preceded her in death more than 31 years ago.
Alma was born in Lancaster County, on April 24, 1936, to the late Hershey H. and Beatrice (Fenderson) Weaver.
Alma was a member of the Swatara Mennonite Church, Myerstown. She will be remembered as a giver for the many crocheted items that she shared with countless individuals over the years as a symbol of love to each one of them for being a meaningful part of her life. She will also be remembered by a number of young people for the accordion or organ lessons that she gave them. There are those, too, that will remember her as the one who made their wedding cakes. Some will even remember her as their "School Van" driver.
She is survived by her three sons and two daughters: Anthony (Lydia) Sweigart of Liberty, MS, Wilbur (Rhoda) Sweigart of Richland, Melvin (Wilma) Sweigart of Denmark, SC, Cheryl (Darvin) Weaver of Jonestown and Carol (Daryl) Witmer of Bernville. She is also survived by 32 grandchildren and 47 great grandchildren and one brother Mervin Weaver of Ephrata.
She was preceded in death by her daughter Cynthia (Clinton) Oberholtzer; brothers Elvin, Lloyd and Harold; and grandsons Jay Paul and Timothy Oberholtzer.
A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, January 5, 2022, at 10:00 a.m. at the Swatara Mennonite Church, 10 Camp Swatara Rd., Myerstown. Interment will be at Ziegler's Church of the Brethren Cemetery, Rehrersburg. A viewing will be held on Tuesday from 2:00 – 4:00 and 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. at the church.