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.
2023
A to B1
Amstutz, Peter David
October 4, 1963 - February 28, 2023
Peter David Amstutz, 59, of Goshen died Tuesday, February 28, 2023 at his home.
He was born October 4, 1963 in Bluffton, Ohio to Frederick and Mary (Schmidt) Amstutz.
On August 6, 1988, he married Portia Miller at Oak Grove Mennonite Church in Smithville, Ohio.
Along with his mother and wife he is survived by a daughter, Christine (Shaun) Amstutz Moore of South Bend; two sons, Jeremy (Amber) Amstutz of Columbus Grove, Ohio and Ezra Amstutz of Bluffton, Ohio; two grandchildren, Ryan and Layne Amstutz and two brothers, James (Lorraine) Amstutz of Ephrata, Pennsylvania and Steven (Jana) Amstutz of Pandora, Ohio.
Peter is preceded in death by his father, Frederick Amstutz and two brothers, Daniel and Michael Amstutz.
Peter was a lifelong carpenter and maintenance person. He owned Amstutz Carpentry and Repair in Bluffton, Ohio. More of his working career included director of maintenance in camping ministries at Tel Hai Camp for four years and Camp Friedenswald for 12 years. He then worked on the maintenance team at ADEC for eight years. He was an incredible handyman. He enjoyed remodeling and spent his time in service to others. He mostly enjoyed spending time with his family and his grandson Ryan. They would spend a lot of time together working on projects, and teaching him how to do things.
He was a member of Eighth Street Mennonite Church.
Visitation will be March 5, 2023 from 1 to 4 p.m. at Yoder-Culp Funeral Home and on March 6th from 10 a.m. until the 11 a.m. funeral service at Eighth Street Mennonite Church. Cremation will follow with private family burial on the sixth-generation family farm in Ohio.
Memorial contributions can be made to the maintenance departments of ADEC or Camp Friedenwald.
Amstutz, Ruth E. Miller
July 29, 1943 - May 21, 2023
Ruth E. Amstutz, 79, of Gosport, Indiana passed away Sunday, May 21, 2023.
She was born July 29, 1943 in Lodi, Ohio to the late Eli A. and Mary Ann "Marie" (Schmucker) Miller.
Ruth married Howard Amstutz on June 22, 1963 and he survives.
She was a member of the Gospel Haven Mennonite Church in Spencer, Indiana.
Ruth was preceded in death by a stillborn daughter; parents, Eli and Mary Ann "Marie" Miller; siblings, Robert Miller and Pauline Miller; brother-in-law, William Wickey.
She is survived by her husband, Howard Amstutz of Gosport, Indiana; children, Harold (Martha) Amstutz of Honea Path, South Carolina, Phillip (Kimberly) Amstutz of WestMinster, South Carolina, Dean (Sheila) Amstutz of Jonesville, Michigan, Rhonda (Glenn) Lauver of Mifflintown, Pennsylvania, Nancy (Eddrell) Lee of Southaven, Mississippi, Keith (Laura) Amstutz of Gosport, Indiana, Wesley (Lynelle) Amstutz of Paragon, Indiana and Joy (Dennis) Yoder of Odon, Indiana; 31 grandchildren and 3 great-grandsons; siblings, Florence Wickey of Centreville, Michigan, Marjorie (Delmar) Yoder of Atlanta, Georgia, Mervin (Sue Ann) Miller of Goshen, Indiana, Edward (Marilyn) Miller of Bristol, Indiana and David (Dorothy) Miller of New Tripoli, Pennsylvania.
Funeral services will be conducted at 2:00 p.m. Friday, May 26, 2023 at Mt. Nebo Mennonite Church, 2206 West Scotland Newberry Road, Newberry, Indiana 47449. Burial will follow in Mt. Joy Mennonite Church Cemetery in Odon, Indiana.
Visitation will be held Thursday, May 25, 2023 from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Family of God Church, 2018 State Road 67, Spencer, Indiana, 47460.
Blake & Wagler Funeral Home in Montgomery, Indiana is honored to serve the family of Ruth E. Amstutz.
Beachey, Jacob E. "Jake"
October 29, 1935 – September 08, 2023
Jacob (Jake) E. Beachey, age 87 of Lenexa, Kansas, passed away peacefully at 5:20 am on Friday, September 8, 2023, after a short stay at St. Luke’s Hospice House in Kansas City, Missouri. There will be a visitation at Porter Funeral Home, 8535 Monrovia, Lenexa, Kansas on Monday, September 11th from 5:00 pm-6:30 pm. A celebration of Jake’s life will be held at Rainbow Mennonite Church, 1444 Southwest Boulevard, Kansas City, Kansas on Tuesday, September 12th at 10:00 am, followed by a reception in the Fellowship Hall for all family and friends. A private burial service for immediate family will follow at Resurrection Catholic Cemetery, Lenexa Kansas.
Jake was born the fourth of five children on October 29, 1935, in Arthur, Illinois to Emory and Cora N (Yoder) Beachey. Jake met the love of his life, Bonnie Jean Sinor of Mountain Home, Arkansas in 1955 during a winter term at Hesston College, Hesston, Kansas. They were married in Kansas City, Kansas at Argentine Mennonite Church on August 12, 1956. Jake graduated from Eastern Illinois University with a BS in Physics in 1962 and from the University of Missouri-Kansas City with his MS in Mathematics in 1968. Jake worked for Midwest Research Institute, Kansas City, MO, and Franklin Associates in Prairie Village, KS for nearly 40 years. He and Bonnie lived in the Kansas City area for most of their 60-year marriage until Bonnie was gathered by the angels in 2016.
Jake is survived by his adult children, Brenda Beachey, Westwood Hills, KS; Terry Beachey (Pamella) St. Louis, MO; Robin Kistler (Mark) Lake Quivira, KS and his five grandchildren, Joel Beachey, Seattle, WA; Bethany Beachey (Joaquin Botello), Longmont, CO; Holly Miller (Josh) Tempe, AZ; Natalie Kistler Los Angeles, CA; and Adam Kistler, Los Angeles, CA. Also surviving are one sister, Rosa Cender, Goshen, IN, and one brother, Junior Beachey (Judy), Arthur, IL, and one brother-in-law Yost Schrock, Sarasota, FL.
Proceeding him in death are his parents, his wife Bonnie, one sister, Ella Schrock, one brother, Edwin Beachey, and his wife Carol, and brother-in-law Eldon Cender.
Jake was a highly intelligent man with a humble spirit. Raised on a farm in central Illinois, he was Amish until age 9. His upbringing formed the foundation for his servant's heart. He was a lifelong member of his church, serving on many committees and volunteering with other philanthropic organizations. He had a fun-loving spirit and many talents. He was a physicist, mathematician, and landlord. He had a passion for popcorn, ice cream, singing, ping pong, tennis, golf, and crossword puzzles. He will be dearly missed by everyone who knew him.
Memorial contributions may be made to Rainbow Mennonite Church or Cross-Lines Community Outreach.
Auker, A. Lois Spangler
March 29 1937 - July 14, 2023
A. Lois Auker, 86, of New Holland, passed away on Friday, July 14, 2023, at Garden Spot Village. She was born in Lancaster to the late E. Willis and Sara (Kuhn) Spangler and was the wife of the late Daniel W. Auker who passed away in 2010.
Lois was a member of Hinkletown Mennonite Church. She was last employed in food services at Caernarvon Elementary School. Lois loved to travel, especially to their cabin in Potter County and to the beach. She prioritized her family and made holidays special with delicious food and decorations. Her hospitality was also extended to those outside of her family. She established traditions that her grandchildren loved like large chocolates from Evan's candy for Easter and ornaments/cookies at Christmastime. She's also remembered for the lovely arrangements she made from her flower garden.
Her children remember her sitting and reading her Bible when they got up in the morning. She trusted in Jesus Christ as her Savior and found comfort and reassurance from her faith until the end of her life. The family would like to express their appreciation and thanks to her care team at Garden Spot Village Summerfield Household and the Hospice nurses.
Lois is survived by three children, Brenda, wife of Glenn Sauder of New Holland, Brian, husband of Kim Auker of Ephrata, Scott, husband of Christine Auker of Ft. Lauderdale, FL; seven grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; three siblings, Glen Spangler, Nancy Pickel and Willis, Jr., husband of Sue Spangler.
A viewing will be held Friday, July 21, 2023, from 10 to 11 AM, at Hinkletown Mennonite Church, 2031 28th Division Highway, Ephrata, followed by her funeral service at 11 AM, with Pastor Chet Yoder officiating. Interment will be private in the Hinkletown Mennonite Cemetery.
Memorial contributions in Lois' memory may be made to Garden Spot Village Benevolence Fund, 433 S. Kinzer Avenue, New Holland, PA 17557.
Arrangements by Stradling Funeral Homes, Inc., Akron/Ephrata.
Bair, Conrad Lamar
November 12 1958 - December 21, 2023
Conrad Lamar Bair, 65, of Peach Bottom, passed away on Thursday, December 21, 2023. Born in Hanover, on November 12, 1958, he was the son of Lois (Ebersole) Bair and the late LeRoy H. Bair.
In addition to his mother, he is survived by two brothers, Daryl (Ruth) of Quarryville and Joel (Carolyn) of Lebanon; and two sisters, Freda (Royce) Sensenig of Grantville, and Regina (Ken) Schrock of Columbiana, OH. He was the beloved uncle of fourteen nephews and seven nieces. Preceding him in death was a nephew, Dwight Sensenig.
A Funeral Service will take place at Blue Rock Mennonite Church, 3453 Blue Rock Rd, Millersville, PA on Wednesday, December 27, 2023 at 10:00 AM. The viewing will be held at the church on Tuesday, December 26, 2023 from 1-4 PM. Burial will be in the Bairs-Codorus Mennonite Cemetery.
Kindly omit flowers.
Arrangements entrusted to Dewald Funeral and Cremation Services, Inc., Quarryville.
Bauman, Robert M.
September 4, 1933 - December 11, 2023
Passed away peacefully on December 11, 2023 at AgeCare, Elmira at the age of 90 years. Husband of the late Esther (Brubacher) Bauman (2002), and Annie (Reesor) Bauman (2018). Cherished father of Larry (Verna) Bauman, Rosanne (Steve) Weber, Colleen Freeman, Rob (Cathy) Bauman, and Cheryl (Art) Horne.
Remembered by 18 grandchildren and 50 great-grandchildren. Brother of Violet Bearinger, Leonard (Clara) Bauman and brother-in-law of Erma Bauman. Lovingly remembered by Annie’s family.
Predeceased by his parents Milton and Susannah (Martin) Bauman, children Marjorie, Darrell, Janice, and Bradley, great-granddaughter Destiny Martin in infancy, brothers Gordon Bauman, Bruce (Elma) Bauman, and brother-in-law Leonard Bearinger.
For most of Robert's working years he enjoyed farming and was a co-owner of B&M Farm Equipment. Robert also faithfully served as a minister for many years at Crystal View Mennonite Fellowship, and in his retirement enjoyed volunteering for Christian Aid Ministries.
Visitation will be held on Tuesday, December 12, 2023 from 6-8 p.m. and on Wednesday, December 13, 2023 from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at the Dreisinger Funeral Home, 62 Arthur St. S., Elmira. Interment will take place in West Montrose Mennonite Cemetery at 10 a.m. on Thursday, December 14, 2023 then to Crystal View Mennonite Fellowship, 2167 Floradale Rd., Floradale, for funeral service at 11 a.m. followed by reception.
In lieu of flowers, donations to Christian Aid Ministries would be appreciated and may be made through the funeral home. A heartfelt thanks to the staff at AgeCare for their exceptional care.
Beachy, Alma Bontrager
9ctober 11, 1928 - May 28, 2023
Alma Beachy, 94, of LaGrange, formerly of Millersburg, died at 1:40 am, on Sunday, May 28, [2023] at her daughter Rosemary’s residence in LaGrange. She was born on October 11, 1928, in Scott County, MO, to Manas F. and Anna (Schrock) Bontrager. On October 6, 1949, in LaGrange County, she married Cornelius "Neal" D. Beachy, he died August 2, 2014.
Surviving are five daughters, Sue Ann (Dennis) Hershberger of Nappanee, Rosemary (Marvin) Miller of LaGrange, Eileen (Harold) Yoder, Ginny (Jim) Kauffman both of Millersburg, Maggie (Nate) Schwartz of Sturgis, MI; six sons, Marvin (Carolyn) Beachy of Amboy, Dave (DiAnn) Beachy of Goshen, Wayne (Rosanna) Beachy of Ligonier, Tim (Leona) Beachy of Columbia City, Paul (Janice) Beachy of Syracuse, Sam (Heidi) Beachy of Milford; 27 grandchildren, 46 great-grandchildren, one step granddaughter, four step great-grandchildren, one step great-great grandson; sister, Fannie Schlabach of Goshen; two brothers, Melvin (Malinda) Bontrager of Middlebury, Ralph Bontrager of Bemidji, MN.
She was preceded in death by her husband; parents; and three brothers, Levi, Manas Jr., and Enos Bontrager.
Alma was a homemaker and a member of Fairhaven Mennonite Church. She, along with her husband and large family, lived as missionaries in Paraguay, South America for 5 1/2 years. She dearly loved Jesus, her husband Neal, her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Visitation will be from 2:00 - 8:00 pm on Tuesday, May 30 and one hour prior to the 10:00 am funeral service on Wednesday, May 31 at Fairhaven Mennonite Church, 13513 State Road 4, Goshen. Services will be conducted by the Fairhaven Ministry Team. Burial will be in Thomas Cemetery, Goshen. Memorials may be given to Christian Mission Charities.
Beachy, Debra S. Bontrager
November 15, 1958 - January 23, 2023
Debra S. Beachy, 64, of Wolcottville, died at 11:20 am on Monday, January 23, [2023] at her residence, following a courageous battle with cancer. She was born on November 15, 1958, in Goshen, to Ray and Ellen (Thomas) Bontrager. On August 11, 1979, in Middlebury, she married Wilmer Beachy, he survives.
Survivors in addition to her husband are daughter, Brocia (David) Mueller of Halstead, KS; son, Tarrin (Randi) Beachy of Twin Falls, ID; two grandsons, Elijah Mueller and Alec Beachy; brother, Darwin Bontrager of Chicago, IL.
She was preceded in death by her father.
Deb was a member of Emma Church and worked at Everence for 30 years. She enjoyed reading, watching sports, and was an avid Chicago Cubs fan. Deb went on five trips over ten years to Moldova through Cross Links, a ministry of Humanitarian and Developmental aid to Eastern Europe. She made afghans for many of her nieces and nephews and close family friends. Deb absolutely loved and adored her two grandsons.
Visitation will be from 2:00 - 4:00 pm and 5:00 - 7:00 pm on Thursday, January 26 at Emma Church, 1900 South 600 West, Topeka. Family and friends will gather at 9:30 am on Friday, January 27 at Emma Church to go in procession to Shore Cemetery, Shipshewana, for a 10:00 am graveside service. A Celebration of Life service will follow at 11:00 am at Emma Church. Services will be conducted by Pastor Gene Hartman. Memorials may be given to Cross Links.
Bechler, LeRoy (Rev.)
December 4, 1925 - April 1, 2023
Rev. LeRoy Bechler, 97, Goshen, died peacefully at 11 a.m. April 1, 2023, at Cottage Garden in Goshen. He was born December 4, 1925 in Pigeon, Michigan to Edward and Ada (Roth) Bechler. On August 24, 1950 he married Irene M. (Springer) Bechler, at East Bend Mennonite Church, Fisher Illinois. They were married 71 years.
Surviving are his children, Kathleen (Michael) Lechlitner, Greenville, SC, Kent (Karen) Bechler, Glendora, California, and Curt (Shari) Bechler, Hudsonville, Michigan, 6 grandchildren, Kyle (Devany) Bechler, CA, Joshua (Jessica) Lechlitner, SC, Kevin (Rachel) Bechler, CA, Kameron (Linnea) Bechler, CA, Christian Bechler, CA, and Connor Bechler, KY, along with 7 great-grandchildren.
Preceding him in death are his parents, his wife, Irene, and a brother, Harold Bechler.
LeRoy loved God with all his heart and this deep love and commitment to follow Jesus led him to become a Pastor and Church Planter in the African-American community in Saginaw, MI and Los Angeles and Inglewood CA. Under his leadership and with the support of the congregation a K-6 school was opened up in Inglewood, CA. He further answered the call by taking an executive leadership position responsible for Home Missions and church growth in the Southeast Mennonite Conference.
LeRoy authored two books: “The Black Mennonite Church in North America 1886-1986” and “Answering the Call: Telling the Story.”
He was a member of the College Mennonite Church, Goshen, IN.
LeRoy graduated from Hesston College with an A.A. & B.R.E. and graduated from Fuller Theological Seminary with an M.A. He loved to learn, enjoyed woodworking, traveling and was an avid Dodgers fan. Most of all he enjoyed spending time with his family.
Memorial service will be 2 p.m., Sunday, April 30, 2023, at College Mennonite Church, 1900 S Main St, Goshen, IN 46526. There will be a private family burial at Violett Cemetery. Pastor Pamela Yoder will officiate. Memorial contributions can be sent to: Goshen Home Health and Hospice, 1147 Professional Dr. Goshen, IN 46526.
Rieth Rohrer Ehret Funeral Home, Goshen, is handling arrangements.
Bechtel, Thomas LeRoy
August 17, 1942 - April 11, 2023
Thomas LeRoy Bechtel, 80, died early Tuesday morning, April 11, 2023 at Greencroft Goshen Health Care, after a valiant fight with Parkinson’s Disease. He was born August 17, 1942 in Goshen, Indiana to Lowell and Betty (Whirledge) Bechtel. After meeting the love of his life at Camp Friedenswald, he married Jeannette Sprunger in Goshen on June 24, 1962, and were together for almost 60 years at the time of her death in May 2022.
Surviving are his two children, Christine (Harley) Bontrager of Goshen and Scott (Kimberle) of Celebration, Florida; five grandchildren, Breanna Bechtel, Ocoee, Florida and Dalton Bechtel, Celebration, Florida, Sabrina Simms, Elkhart, Natasha (Ken) Overmyer, Nappanee, and Jarin Bontrager, Terre Haute, and two great-granddaughters, Ellelana and Emmaleigh Overmyer; a sister, Jane (David) Troup, Goshen, and a sister-in-law, Linda Bechtel, Kalamazoo, Michigan and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his wife, parents, brother, Edward Bechtel, and a grandson, Nicholas Simms.
Tom graduated from Goshen High School in 1960 and attended Bluffton University (College) for two years. In 963, he and his wife, Jeannette, went to Leopoldville (Kinshasa), Zaire, as volunteers with the Mennonite Central Committee. After completing their two years of service, they settled in Goshen where he was employed at Penn Controls, later known as Johnson Controls, as a Tool & Die apprentice, working his way up to foreman and retiring from there after more than 35 years.
Tom had many, many interests over the years; he built a small home in the countryside on three acres, later turning that home into the attached two car garage for their larger family home. He also built the barn on the property, putting up all the fencing and had an enormous garden. He always enjoyed animals – from having his own monkey (!) and dog while in Africa, to raising steers, hogs, chickens and rabbits to provide for his family, to raising beagles as hunting dogs, to always having some kind of dog and farm cats on the property until he retired, to the horses he bought for his children. He loved boating on Lake Wawasee with the speedboat he built and shooting in a weekly Trap League. He also built his own hog roaster and hired himself out to various events to make extra money. He was heavily involved with his children’s 4-H careers, and served as Saddle Club president for one year. After retiring, he loved to camp with their 5th wheel and travel with friends. He has visited every state, Canada, Mexico, Haiti, Australia, Fiji and visited Europe several times in addition to going on cruises to the Caribbean, the Panama Canal and Alaska. He loved life and had a sharp sense of humor – if a prank was possible, he was the one who did it. Laughter was an integral part of his life. He loved to take his grandchildren camping, swimming and just have fun with them. But most of all, he loved to just spend time with Jeannette.
Memorial donations can be made to Camp Friedenswald or The American Parkinson Disease Association.
A service celebrating Tom’s life will be held at Eighth Street Mennonite Church, (602 S 8th Street, Goshen) where he was a lifelong member, on Saturday, April 15 at 11 a.m. followed by a graveside service and burial in Violett Cemetery. Viewing and family visitation will be at Yoder-Culp Funeral Home on Friday, April 14, from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m. and at the church on Saturday, April 15 before the service, from 10 to 11 a.m.
Beechy, Alysa Ranae
February 24, 2023 - July 3, 2023
Alysa Ranae Beechy, four-month-old daughter of Earl and LaVerda (Eash) Beechy, of LaGrange, (district: 7), died at 8:50 pm on Monday, July 3 at her residence, from complications of a genetic disorder. She was born on February 24, 2023, in LaGrange.
Survivors in addition to her parents are four siblings, Vernon Eugene, Dena Sue, Lanita Jane, and Austin Jon Beechy all at home; grandparents, Olen and Ida Carolyn Beechy of Topeka, Orla and Elma Eash of LaGrange; great-grandmother, Ida Mae Schlabach of LaGrange; and many uncles, aunts, and cousins.
Visitation will be after 2:00 pm on Tuesday, July 4 and all-day Wednesday, July 5 at the Daniel Bontrager residence, 1485 S. 375 W., LaGrange. Funeral services will be at 9:30 am on Thursday, July 6, at the same residence. Services will be conducted by Bishop Richard H. Bontrager and the home ministers. Burial will be in Beechy Cemetery, LaGrange.
Beechy, Jacob A.
May 2, 1956 - May 25, 2023
Jacob A. Beechy, age 67 of Etna Green, IN, died at 5:37 am on Thursday, May 25, 2023 at Lutheran Hospital, Ft. Wayne, IN. He was born on May 2, 1956 in LaGrange, IN to Aaron D. and Polly N. (Hershberger) Beechy. Mr. Beechy is a lifelong northern Indiana area resident and on December 7, 1978 he married Ruth Elizabeth Chupp in Nappanee, IN. Jacob was a member of the Old Order Amish Church.
He is survived by his wife of 44 years, Ruth Beechy of Etna Green; 8 children: LorAnna (Levi) Helmuth of Milford, Marion (Edna) Beechy of Etna Green, Karen (Lyle) Yoder of Millersburg, Aaron (Marlene) Beechy of Nappanee, Doris (Carl) Kuhns of Etna Green, Mary Ruth (Jesse) Schwartz of Bourbon, IN, John Mark (Kathryn) Beechy of Etna Green, and Norma (Willard) Lehman of Etna Green; 32 grandchildren; 5 great grandchildren; sisters, LeAnna (Harvey) Miller, Pardeeville, WI, Mary (Harvey) Raber, Millersburg, IN, Katie (Ivan) Helmuth, Middlebury, IN, Lydia Mae Beechy, Topeka, IN, Ella (Marvin) Hochstetler, Topeka, IN, Edna (Ezra) Miller, Newaygo, MI, Wilma (Ervin Jr.) Bontrager, Topeka, IN; brothers, Elmer (Annie) Beechy, Hillpoint, WI, Noah (Barbara) Beechy, LaGrange, IN, Daniel Beechy (Special friend Martha Hershberger), Millersburg, IN.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Aaron and Polly Beechy; infant sister, and 2 sister’s-in-law, Lena Beechy and Susie Beechy.
Visitation will be held after 1 pm on Friday, May 26, 2023 and all day on Saturday, May 27, 2023 at the John Mark Beechy residence (8611 W 750 N, Etna Green, IN 46524). A funeral service will also be held at the John Mark Beechy residence at 9:30 am on Sunday, May 28, 2023 with home ministries of the Old Order Amish Church officiating. Burial will take place in Graber Cemetery, Nappanee.
Beechy, Mervin Jay
August 8, 1959 -August 2, 2023
Mervin Jay Beechy, 63, of Shipshewana, (district: 44), died at 12:31 pm on Wednesday, August 2,[2023] at Parkview Regional Medical Center, Fort Wayne. He was born on August 8, 1959, in LaGrange County, to Alvin and Ida (Lehman) Beechy. On October 14, 1980, in Shipshewana, he married Nola Gingerich, she survives.
Survivors in addition to his wife are son, Wayne (Malinda) Beechy of LaGrange; two daughters, Laura Beechy of Shipshewana, Linda (Ferman) Yoder of Middlebury; nine grandchildren; four brothers, Olen (Ida Carolyn) Beechy of Topeka, LaVern (Mary) Beechy, Orva (Dorothy) Beechy, David (Wilma) Beechy all of Shipshewana; sister, Edna (Henry) Yoder of LaGrange.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Mervin worked at Wellspring Components and was a minister in the Old Order Amish Church.
Visitation will be after 2:00 pm on Thursday, August 3 and all-day Friday, August 4 at the family residence, 7235 W. 250 N., Shipshewana. Funeral services will be at 9:30 am on Saturday, August 5 at the John Bontrager residence, 7035 W. 250 N., Shipshewana. Services will be conducted by Bishop Norman Lehman and the home ministers. Burial will be in East Barren Cemetery, Shipshewana.
Beery, Branson Daniel
July 6 2023 - July 6, 2023
Branson Daniel Beery, stillborn son of Brandon L. and Amy L. Rohrer Beery of Dayton, was born on July 6, 2023, at the University of Virginia Medical Center.
Surviving, in addition to his parents, are a sister, Alyssa Rose Beery at home; grandparents, Fred A. and Elaine (Koogler) Rohrer, Sidney L. and Amy (Knicely) Beery; great-grandparents, Dan and Becky (Shank) Knicely, Allen Beery, and Anna (Beery) Rohrer and great-great-grandparent, Joseph Beery, all of Dayton; and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.
Friends and family attended a graveside service, which was held Monday, July 10, 2023, at Riverdale Old Order Mennonite Church Cemetery with church leaders officiating.
McMullen Funeral Home handled arrangements.
Beery, Joseph Galen
March 30, 1924 - October 30, 2023
Joseph Galen Beery, 99, a resident of Dayton, passed away on Monday, October 30, 2023, at his home.
Mr. Beery was born on March 30, 1924, in Rushville, VA, to the late Ward Edward and Mary Amelia Showalter Beery. He was a member and deacon of Riverdale Old Order Mennonite Church.
On February 19, 1947, he married Wilda Mae Rhodes Beery, who preceded him in death on August 2, 2009.
Mr. Beery is survived by his children, Allen R. Beery of Dayton, Neil D. Beery (Clara) of Rockingham, VA, Dwight S. Beery (Erma) of Dayton, VA, Warren E. Beery (Marilyn), Harry Lee Beery (Melinda), J. Galen Beery (Barbara), Mary Ella Knicely (Stanley) all of Dayton, VA; son-in-law, Byard H. Showalter of Dayton, VA; siblings, Wilda M. Beery of Rockingham, VA, Ada M. Rodes of Port Republic, VA, Anna G. Rohrer, Ward E. Beery (Sadie) both of Dayton, VA; sister-in-law, Mary E. Beery of Dayton; 28 grandchildren; 18 step grandchildren; 83 great grandchildren; 85 step great grandchildren; 22 great great grandchildren; five step great great grandchildren; five step step grandchildren; 25 step step great-grandchildren; four step step great great grandchildren.
In addition to his wife and parents, Mr. Beery was preceded in death by a daughter, Ethel M. Beery Showalter, on November 18, 2008; siblings, E. Ruth Shirk (Christian and second wife Lydia), David S. Beery, Mabel R. Knicely (David), (twin) Daniel P. Beery (Priscilla), Hettie I. Rohrer (Frank), Emory C. Beery, Mary F. Beery; daughters-in-law, Lucy (Weaver) Beery, Eunice (Burkholder) Beery; two great grandchildren; one great great grandchild; and three step great great grandchildren.
Ministers of the Church will conduct a funeral service 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, November 2, 2023, at Pleasant View Old Order Mennonite Church. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.
The family will receive friends from 1:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, October 31, 2023, and from 10:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, November 1, 2023, at his home, 2542 Harness Shop Road, Dayton, VA 22821.
Beiler, Hannah K. Stoltzfus
January 2, 1940 - November 24, 2023
Hannah K. Beiler, 83, of Mifflinburg entered into rest on Friday, Nov. 24, 2023, at Evangelical Community Hospital.
Born on Jan. 2, 1940, in Paradise, Lancaster County, a daughter of the late Jonas and Malinda (King) Stoltzfus. On Nov. 15, 1960, in Lancaster County ,she married Jacob E. Beiler who preceded her in death in March of 1999.
She attended Linville Hill School, Lancaster County.
Hannah was a homemaker. She was a member of Vicksburg Mennonite Church.
She enjoyed sewing, making scrap sheets, visiting with people, serving her family, and reading the Bible and most recently listening to her Bible.
She is survived by 10 children, Rachel (Phil) Schrock of Cumberland Furnace, TN, Elmer (Irene) Beiler of Mifflinburg, Jacob Beiler, Jr of Ephrata, PA, Esther Beiler of Oldtown, MD, Jonas Beiler of Mifflinburg, PA, Calvin Beiler of Lewisburg, John (Lindsey) Beiler of Middleburg, Ervin (Cynthia) Beiler of Lewisburg, Linda (Amos) Stoltzfus of Middleburg, Kathryn Beiler of Mifflinburg, 28 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren, one sister Katie k. Zook, and two brothers, Amos K. Stoltzfus and Levi K. Stoltzfus.
She was preceded in death by a daughter-in-law, Lois Beiler; grandson, Jacob Lane; one brother, John K. Stoltzfus; two sisters, Rebecca K. Beiler, and Linda K. King.
Family and friends are invited to the viewing from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 28, 2023, at Shady Grove Christian Fellowship Church, 5327 Buffalo Road, Mifflinburg, where the funeral will be held at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, November 29, 2023 with Pastor Anthony Miller and Virgil Byler of the Vicksburg Mennonite Church officiating.
Interment will be in the Vicksburg Mennonite Church Cemetery.
To share in Hannah's online memorial, please visit www.adamofh.com
Arrangements are by Dominick T. Adamo Funerals · Cremations · Monuments, 16 Walnut Street, Mifflinburg.
Beiler, Karen Joy
January 29, 1958 - July 16, 2023
Karen Joy Beiler, age 65 of Lancaster City, passed away on Sunday, July 16, 2023 at Hospice Inpatient Center, Mount Joy. Born in Lancaster, she was the daughter of the late D. George and Rhoda Stoltzfus Beiler. She graduated from Lancaster Mennonite High School, class of 1976. Karen received her Bachelor of Science degree from Millersville University. She enjoyed her teaching years at both Weavertown Mennonite School, and Locust Grove Mennonite School. Karen gave in to her curiosity to see the world in her 40s when she signed up to teach English in China for 10 years. While she was abroad, she developed a love for the people and the food of that country. Upon returning home, she shared her enthusiasm by cooking fantastic Chinese cuisine for any and all partakers. She showed her guests mercy by toning down the spice level for our unsophisticated palates.
After teaching, she provided transportation for the Amish community to the market in Flemington, NJ where she worked for 7 years in the deli at Jason and Martha Esh's soup and salad stand. She was a member of Sunnyside Mennonite Church in Lancaster. At Sunnyside, she used her gifts and time in children's ministry. In her free time, Karen loved reading, traveling, eating out and spending time with her family and friends. Her family will miss her strong alto singing voice and her unbridled enthusiasm for the simple gifts in life.
Surviving are 3 siblings: Yvonne, wife of John Harvey Groff of Lancaster, Rosalyn, wife of John Dienner of Bird in Hand, Derrell, husband of Ginger Messner Beiler of Terre Hill, and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by a brother; Daniel, late husband of Priscilla Dienner Beiler of Lock Haven.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, July 22, 2023 at Ridgeview Mennonite Church, 3723 Ridge Road, Gordonville, PA 17529 at 5 PM. Visitation will begin at 4 PM. Memorial contributions in Karen's name may be made to Hospice & Community Care at www.hospiceandcommunitycare.org/in-honor-in-memory-gifts. Private interment at Ridgeview Mennonite Church.
Blosser, Nelson Glen
September 30, 1949 - November 17, 2023
Nelson Glen Blosser, 74, a quiet and simple man with a helping heart, passed away on Friday, Nov. 17, 2023, at the Willow Estates Retirement Community in Penn Laird.
He was born on Sept. 30, 1949, in Waynesboro to the late Glen Harry and Lois Edna Grove Blosser.
Nelson dedicated most of his career to the organ industry. He began by working with Taylor and Boody Organ Builders in Staunton, where he honed his skills in building organs. Later, he collaborated with the renowned organ inventor and designer, Xavier Wilhelmy, repairing these magnificent instruments. In addition to his work with organs, Nelson spent time at Hershey Tire and Auto Repair in Staunton.
Outside of work, Nelson found joy in simple pleasures. He had a fondness for puzzles that challenged his mind and provided moments of relaxation. Nelson also had a soft spot for cats and dogs.
He is survived by his brothers, Leroy Carl, Clayton Paul, and Max Leon Blosser, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his loving wife, Peggy Ann Halteman Blosser.
A memorial service will be held to celebrate Nelson's life at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 2, 2023, at the Staunton Mennonite Church. Inurnment will follow at Oak Lawn Mausoleum and Memory Gardens in Staunton.
The family would like to especially thank the caregivers and staff of both Legacy Hospice and Willow Estates Retirement Community for all their kindness and support during this time.
Arrangements are being handled by Henry Funeral Home.
Blosser, Wendell "Ike"
May 6, 1933 - November 16, 2023
Wendell “Ike” Blosser, 90, Elkhart, died 10:47 a.m. Thursday, November 16, 2023, at Elkhart General Hospital. He was born May 6, 1933, in Wakarusa, to Henry & Celia (Bixler) Blosser. On September 11, 1955, he married Donita (Overholser) Blosser.
Surviving are his wife, Donita, Elkhart, children, Carmen (Alan) Kurtz, Plymouth, Shawn (Michelle) Blosser, Wakarusa, Shanda (Burnell) Weaver, Goshen, 8 grandchildren, Brandon (Katie) Kurtz, Nathan (Alicia) Kurtz, Shane (Amanda) Kurtz, Andrew (Leah) Kurtz, Michael (Stacy) Blosser, Mindy (Ty) Heuerman, Collette (Weston) Troyer & Matt (Mariah) Weaver, 13 great-grandchildren and one due shortly.
Preceding him in death are his parents, sisters, Genevieve Sowles, Vivian Bontrager & one infant sister and brothers, Russell, Lowell, Vergil Blosser & one infant brother.
Wendell worked in sales at Fuller Brush, was owner of Wakarusa Bakery and Blosser Carpet Maintenance and retired in 1998 from Elkhart County Maintenance. He was a past member of Holdeman Mennonite Church, where he was baptized, and served as a youth sponsor and an elder. A current member of Yellow Creek Mennonite Church, Wendell loved his Lord and faithfully prayed for his family. He was a member of the Gideons. Enjoyed following NorthWood Sports, Notre Dame and the Colts. Wendell enjoyed camping with family. He and Donita spent 20 years wintering in Sarasota, Florida. Most of all, he enjoyed spending time with family and having a good conversation.
Visitation will be 4-7 p.m. Monday, November 20, 2023, with the funeral service 11 a.m. Tuesday, November 21, 2023, all at Yellow Creek Mennonite Church, 64901 CR 11, Goshen. Pastor Wes Bontreger will officiate. A private family burial will be at Olive (West) Cemetery. Memorial donations may be directed to The Gideons International, P.O. Box 541, Goshen, Indiana 46527 or Yellow Creek Mennonite Church.
Rieth Rohrer Ehret Lienhart Funeral Home, Wakarusa, is handling arrangements.
Bontrager, Alma Miller
July 18, 1930 - September 17, 2023
Alma Bontrager was a woman who knew the importance of little things, the value of big things, and the joy of fully experiencing everything in the middle.
She knew that the pie crust was better if you added 1T of water, the flower garden looked better if you took time to deadhead and pull the weeds, the quilt was more attractive if the stitches were even, and the sunset looked even better when seen through a clean window.
Alma also spent time every day on the big things in her life – relationships. At the top of her list was her relationship with God. This was followed closely by her love and care for her grandchildren and great grandchildren; her church family at East Goshen Mennonite Church; her extended family – brothers, sister, sisters in law, nieces, nephews, and all their families; and the Greencroft community.
The second of eleven children, Alma was born on July 18, 1930, to Jacob and Polly (Helmuth) Miller in Arthur, Illinois. The family moved to Goshen when she was 17. She was preceded in death by her parents and seven siblings (Barbara Hershberger, Henry, Chris, Eli, Daniel, Orie, and John). Her sister Mary (Lisa Dimondstein) lives in Vermont, two brothers, Emery (Mary Alice) and Paul (Sherry) live in Ohio.
Alma packed a lot into her 93 years and she never stopped learning new things – whether it was making window treatments at Kropf Manufacturing in her 30’s and 40’s, making pies when she worked in food services at Greencroft in her 60’s, kayaking in her 80’s, or using her iPad to ‘go to church’ via zoom in her 90’s. She taught her Sunday School on a regular basis and diligently prepared for each class (all of them conducted on zoom) often calling one of her grandchildren to ask about the best way to convey an idea or ask a question that would generate the most discussion.
Alma had two daughters (Grace and Jo) who she raised in Middlebury; she moved to Greencroft Senior Center in 1992. She loved living in Manor III and throughout her 30 years there she was fully engaged in the Greencroft community. Grace and Jo both live nearby; Grace is in Millersburg and Jo is in Carmel.
When Grace married Bob Carpenter and Jo married Kirk Taylor, Alma welcomed them into the family. She was always grateful for the kindnesses she received from her sons-in-law, the errands they ran, and the work they did for her. Her grandchildren brought her special joy – Erin (Woody) Hagar, Sarah (Steve) Wright, Laura (Stephen) Stull, Kyle Taylor, and Claire Taylor. They will never eat a piece of apple pie without remembering their Grandma Alma’s special attention to the craft of baking a pie – paying attention to the crust, the varieties of apples, and the crumbs on top. They have all iterated their own version of an apple pie, and that, too, brought Alma great pleasure. She never believed that her way was the only right way.
Alex and Gabe Hagar, Abigail and Emily Wright, and Simon, Elaina, and Nathaniel Stull will always remember that their great grandmother asked every year what kind of cookies they wanted her to bake for their birthdays. This little thing communicated the big message of just how much she valued each of them.
Those who knew Alma well understood that she was a woman who embodied the inseparable nature of joy and sorrow – ‘the deeper that sorrow carves into your being, the more joy you can contain’. Indeed, for Alma, everything was a gift. Alma’s spirit will live on in all who were touched by her friendship, who received one of her handwritten notes or carefully selected cards, and who sat at her table to play a game or eat a meal.
Alma was hopeful that one day she would quietly cross the threshold from this life and into the next. That happened on Sunday morning, September 17. She was up early to get ready for church and an afternoon music performance when she experienced an apparent stroke. She slipped away peacefully while sitting in her chair.
Visitation will be at Yoder Culp Funeral Home on Saturday, September 23, 2023 from 5pm – 8pm. Interment will be a private family service at Clinton Union Cemetery. Friends and family are invited to participate in a Celebration of Life service at East Goshen Mennonite Church on Sunday, September 24, at 3pm.
Memorial gifts in Alma’s honor may be directed to Mennonite Central Committee, PO Box 500, Akron, PA 17501; https://mcc.org/.
Bontrager, Carolyn Burkholder
July 30, 1938 - September 1, 2023
Carolyn Burkholder Bontrager, 85, of Shipshewana, died at 8:51 pm on Friday, September 1, [2023] at her residence. She was born on July 30, 1938, in Nappanee. On November 7, 1959, in Nappanee, she married Daniel D. Bontrager, he survives.
Survivors in addition to her husband are three daughters, Myra (Ben) Birky of Halsey, OR, Virginia (Walter) Hochstetler, Dorothy Bontrager both of Shipshewana; son, David Bontrager of Shipshewana; eight grandchildren, six great-grandchildren; four sisters, Barbara (Dan) Yoder of Ireland, Ruth (John Mark) Yoder of Berne, Irma (Paul) Miller of Newcomerstown, OH, Susan (Delbert) Schlabach of Ripley, OH; brother, Thomas (Linda) Mast of Nappanee.
She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Mabel (Burkholder) Mast and a great-grandson, Alexander.
Carolyn was a homemaker and a member of Rosewood Fellowship. She lived a full life serving her family, friends and many others who crossed her path. She cheerfully supported her husband in his calling as a minister and on the mission field. The family would like to acknowledge Fresenius Kidney Care and ProMedica Hospice for the wonderful care they provided for Carolyn.
Visitation will be from 5:00 - 8:00 pm on Sunday, September 3 and 2:00 - 4:00 pm and 6:00 - 8:00 pm on Monday, September 4 at Fairhaven Mennonite Church, 13513 State Road 4, Goshen. Funeral services will be at 10:00 am on Tuesday, September 5 also at the church. Services will be conducted by the Rosewood Ministry Team and Pastor Saúl Pacheco. Burial will be in Rosewood Cemetery, Shipshewana. Memorials may be given to Amish Mennonite Aid.
Bontrager, Dewey A.
December 14, 1929 - February 28, 2023
Dewey A. Bontrager, 93, of Goshen, passed away at 11:10 am, on Tuesday, February 28, [2023] at his residence. He was born on December 14, 1929, in Kokomo, Abe and Silva (Yoder) Bontrager.
Surviving is a son, Doug (Diane) Slabach of Goshen; four grandchildren; several great-grandchildren; a brother, Ralph Bontrager of Middlebury; two sisters, Wilma Glazener of Sarasota, FL, and Miriam Warren of Kokomo; and many nieces and nephews, who always enjoyed hearing stories from Dewey about the past.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and a brother, Allen Bontrager.
Dewey had worked in the mobile home industry for most of his life. He was a member of Clinton Frame Church, Goshen since 1969 and always enjoyed spending time with his church family. He also enjoyed listening to Christian music, attending several concerts, and making many trips to Nashville Tennessee. He was a nature lover who enjoyed going on walks and feeding and watching the birds. In his younger years he enjoyed fishing; he will always be remembered as a man who never knew a stranger.
Visitation will be from 2:00 to 4:00 and 5:00 - 7:00 pm on Friday, March 3, at Clinton Frame Church, 63846 CR 35 Goshen. Funeral services will be at 11:00 am on Saturday, March 4, also at the church. Services will be conducted by Pastor Ken Bontreger. Burial will be in Clinton Frame Cemetery, Goshen. Memorials may be given to Clinton Frame Church.
Bontrager, Edna J. Weaver
July 31, 1945 - June 27, 2023
Edna J. Bontrager, 77, of LaGrange, (district: 39), died at 1:05 pm on Tuesday, June 27 at her residence. She was born on July 31, 1945, in LaGrange County, to Jonas and Edna (Troyer) Weaver. On October 24, 1963, in LaGrange, she married Lester M. Bontrager, he died May 29, 2008.
Surviving are three sons, Calvin Ray Bontrager, Paul Devon (LeEtta) Bontrager, Kenny Wayne (Edna) Bontrager all of LaGrange; 15 grandchildren, 31 great-grandchildren; two sisters, Helen Hochstetler of Topeka, Lydia Borntrager of Goshen; two brothers, Harry (Mary) Weaver of Topeka, Harley (Ella) Weaver of Dalton, WI; three brothers-in-law, Ervin Yoder of LaGrange, Howard (Etta) Miller of Ligonier, David Wengerd of LaGrange; two sisters-in-law, Martha Miller of Topeka, Mary Weaver of Shipshewana.
She was preceded in death by her husband; parents; son, Orville Dean Bontrager; two grandsons; five sisters, Anna Jacobs, Elsie Miller, Ella Yoder, Esther Miller, Susie Wengerd; one brother, Calvin Weaver.
Edna was a homemaker and a member of the Old Order Amish Church.
Visitation will be after 1:00 pm on Wednesday, June 28 and all-day Thursday, June 29 at the family's residence, 6055 W. 050 S., LaGrange. Funeral services will be at 9:30 am on Friday, June 30 at the Earl Yoder residence, 6110 W. 050 S., LaGrange. Services will be conducted by Bishop John Mishler and the home ministers. Burial will be in Yoder Cemetery, Shipshewana.
Bontrager, Edna Schlabach
January 8, 1945 - April 8, 2023
Edna Bontrager, 78, of Topeka, (district: 31), died at 3:45 am on Saturday, April 8, 2023 at her residence, following a stroke she suffered on April 3, 2023. She was born on January 8, 1945, in LaGrange County, to Amos and Mary (Miller) Schlabach. On March 5, 1964, in Topeka, she married Ervin Bontrager, he survives.
Survivors in addition to her husband are three daughters, Elsa (Ernie) Bontrager of Topeka, Ruby (Gary) Yoder of Howe, Mary (Eddie) Miller of Prairie Grove, AR; son, Jerry (LeAnna) Bontrager of Topeka; daughter-in-law, Millie Bontrager; 24 grandchildren; 34 great-grandchildren; four sisters, Barbara (Wilbur) Yoder, Katie (Ernie) Mullet, Anna (LeRoy) Lambright, Neomah (Willie) Yoder; nine brothers, John (Katie) Schlabach, Ervin Schlabach, Mahlon (Treva) Schlabach, Amos, Jr. (Ruby) Schlabach, Lloyd (Marietta) Schlabach, Harley (LaVera) Schlabach, Ray (Miriam) Schlabach, LeRoy Schlabach, Nelson (Martha) Schlabach.
She was preceded in death by her parents; three sons, LaVern, Jr. and Cletus Bontrager; two sisters, her twin, Elsa Schlabach, and Mattie Slabach.
Edna was a homemaker and member of the Old Order Amish Church.
Visitation will be after 1:00 pm on Sunday April 9, all day Monday, April 10, at the Ferman Hochstetler residence, 3215 S. 700 W., Topeka. Funeral services will be at 9:30 am on Tuesday, April 11, at the same residence. Services will be conducted by Bishop Mervin Hershberger and the home ministers. Burial will be in Hawpatch Cemetery, Topeka.
Bontrager, Eli E.
January 13, 1981 - August 11, 2023
Eli E. Bontrager, 42, of Shipshewana, (district: 37-2), died at 12:45 pm, on Friday, August 11, 2023, at his residence. He was born on January 13, 1981, in LaGrange County, to Elva I. and Freda A. (Schrock) Bontrager.
Survivors in addition to his father are five brothers, David E. (Katie) Bontrager of Markesan, WI, Ervin E. (Edna) Bontrager of LaGrange, Andy E. (Etta Fern) Bontrager of Goshen, Ammon E. (Ella) Bontrager of Cambria, WI, and Daniel E. (Suella) Bontrager of Shipshewana; two sisters, Esther E. Bontrager of LaGrange and Amanda E. (Joe) Coblentz of Cecil, WI; three stepbrothers, William (Edith) Knepp of LaGrange, Enos (Maryanna) Knepp of Millersburg, and Christy C., Jr. (Irma) Knepp, of LaGrange; two stepsisters, Ada Mae (Wilbur) Fry of Topeka and Edna Ellen (Stanley) Miller of Wawaka; stepsister-in-law, Katie Knepp; numerous nieces, nephews and step nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his mother; stepmother, Ella C. Ropp; sister, Miriam E. Bontrager; stepbrothers, John Knepp, Orva C. Knepp, and Melvin C. Knepp; stepsister, Anna Marie Eash.
Eli worked at Crystal Hope Workshop and was a member of the Old Order Amish Church.
Visitation will be after 1:00 pm on Saturday, August 12, and all-day Sunday, August 13, at The Family's Residence, 0220 South State Road 5, Shipshewana. Funeral services will be at 9:30 am on Monday, August 14, at the same residence. Services will be conducted by Bishop Lyle Dean Yoder and the home ministers. Burial will be in Yoder Cemetery, Shipshewana.
Bontrager, Ella C. Ropp Knepp
July 7 1944 -June 5, 2023
Ella C. Bontrager, 78, of Shipshewana, (district: 37-2), died at 2:10 am on Monday, June 5, 2023 at her residence. She was born on July 7, 1944 in Kalona, IA, to Chrissie and Lydia (Yoder) Ropp. On April 21, 2005 she married Chris J. Knepp, he died October 28, 2015. On July 19, 2019 she married Elva I. Bontrager, he survives.
Survivors in addition to her husband are her step-children from the marriage with Chris J. Knepp: three step-sons, William (Edith) Knepp of LaGrange, Enos (Maryanna) Knepp of Millersburg, and Christy C., Jr. (Irma) Knepp of LaGrange; two step-daughters, Ada Mae (Wilbur) Fry of Topeka and Edna Ellen (Stanley) Miller of Wawaka; step-daughter-in-law, Katie Knepp of Topeka; her step-children from the marriage with Elva I. Bontrager: six step-sons; David E. (Katie) Bontrager of Markesan, WI, Ervin E. (Edna) Bontrager of LaGrange, Andy E. (Etta Fern) Bontrager of Goshen, Ammon E. (Ella) Bontrager of Cambria, WI, Daniel E. (Suella) Bontrager of Shipshewana and Eli E. Bontrager of Shipshewana; two step-daughters, Esther E. Bontrager of LaGrange and Amanda E. (Joe) Coblentz of Bonduel, WI. 82 step-grandchildren; 123 step-great grandchildren; two sisters, Wilma Mast of Marion, KY, Viola (Joe) Mast of Bloomfield, IA; three brothers, Henry (Susie) Ropp of Jamesport, MO, Toby (Linda) Ropp of Jamesport, MO, Abe (Marilyn) Ropp of South Bend.
She was preceded in death by her parents; first husband; two step-daughters, Anna Marie Eash and Miriam E. Bontrager; three step-sons, John Knepp, Orva C. Knepp, and Melvin C. Knepp; two step-great-great grandchildren.
Ella was a homemaker, massage therapist for many years, and a member of the Old Order Amish Church.
Visitation will be after 2:00 pm on Tuesday June 6, and all day on Wednesday, June 7, at the family's residence, 0220 S. SR 5 Shipshewana. Funeral services will be at 9:30 am on Thursday, June 8, also at the family's residence. Services will be conducted by Bishop Lyle Dean Yoder and the home ministers. Burial will be in Yoder Cemetery, Shipshewana. Miller-Stewart Funeral Home, Middlebury, is in charge of arrangements.
Bontrager, Eugene Anthony "Geno"
November 16, 1978 - September 18, 2023
Eugene Anthony “Geno” Bontrager, age 44 of Nappanee, IN, died at 2:45 p.m. September 18, 2023 after a 1-year battle with cancer. He was born on November 16, 1978 in Bremen, IN to Joe M. and Verba (Hochstetler) Bontrager of Nappanee.
They survive along with 3 brothers: Virgil (Doretta Lehman) Bontrager of Shipshewana, IN, John (Barbara Yoder) Bontrager of Millersburg, IN, and Merl Bontrager of Milford, IN; 4 sisters: Janice (Glen) Miller of Shipshewana, Deb (Willie) Lehman of Nappanee, Jolene (Andrew) Schwartz of Nappanee, and Cathy (Michael) Slabaugh of Nappanee; 20 nephews; and 8 nieces.
He was preceded in death by paternal grandparents, Mose and Tillie Bontrager; and maternal grandparents, Rudy and Anna Hochstetler.
Visitation will be held after 2 pm on both Tuesday, September 19, 2023 and Wednesday, September 20, 2023 at the Ray Hochstetler residence (955 Baltimore Ave., Nappanee). Funeral services will be held at 9:30 am Thursday, also at the Ray Hochstetler residence. Home ministries of the Old Order Amish Church will officiate and burial will take place in Weldy Cemetery, Nappanee. Arrangements are with Thompson-Lengacher & Yoder Funeral Home, Nappanee.
Bontrager, Fannie Mae Borntrager
March 24, 1965 - May 12, 2023
Fannie Mae Bontrager, age 58 of Nappanee, IN, died at 10:30 am on Friday, May 12, 2023 at the scene of an accident on 800 W in Nappanee. Fannie was born on March 24, 1965 in Independence, IA to Toby and Mary (Stutzman) Borntrager. On May 11, 2006, Fannie Mae married Daniel Bontrager, Jr. in Rochester, IN and she was a member of the Old Order Amish Church.
She is survived by her husband Daniel Bontrager Jr. of Nappanee; father, Toby Borntrager of Etna Green, IN; 8 siblings: Barbara Ann (Dan) Borntrager of Milford, IN, Bettie (Wilbur) Troyer of Nappanee, Martha (LaVern) Yoder of Nappanee, Esther Borntrager of Nappanee, Ida (Aaron) Miller of Etna Green, IN, Nettie (Harley) Schwartz of Sturgis, MI, Susan (Amos) Borntrager Jr. of Milford, and Edna (Marion) Beechy of Etna Green; many nieces and nephews; and her in-laws, Daniel and Mary (Kauffman) Bontrager Sr. of Topeka, IN.
Fannie Mae was preceded in death by her mother, Mary Borntrager and a sister, Mary Borntrager.
Visitation will be held after 3 pm on Saturday, May 13, 2023 and all-day Sunday, May 14, 2023 at the Gerald Schwartz Residence (9229 N St Rd 19, Etna Green, IN). A funeral service will begin at 9:30 on Monday, May 15, 2023, also at the Gerald Schwartz residence. Home ministries of the Old Order Amish Church will officiate and burial will take place at Graber Cemetery, Nappanee, IN.
Bontrager, Harley L.
May 10, 1951 - May 1, 2023
Harley L. Bontrager, 71, of Millersburg, (district: 34-3), died at 2:15 pm on Monday, May 1, [2023] at his residence. He was born on May 10, 1951, in LaGrange County, to Levi D. and Elizabeth (Schlabach) Bontrager. On October 21, 1971 in LaGrange he married Katie Lehman, she survives.
Survivors in addition to his wife are four daughters, Mary Bontrager of Millersburg and her special friend, Devon Schwartz, Velda (Andrew) Miller of Ligonier, Loranna (DeWayne) Eash of LaGrange, Karen (Ferman) Hochstetler of Topeka; five sons, Paul (Susietta) Bontrager of Millersburg, Mark (Mary Alice) Bontrager of Topeka, Cletus (Norma) Bontrager of Topeka, Dannie (Stephanie) Bontrager of Howe, Mervin (Gwenda) Bontrager of Millersburg; 41 grandchildren; five great grandchildren; four sisters, Esther (John, dec.) Yoder of Shipshewana, Alice (Alvin, dec.) Miller of Millersburg, Mabel (Ervin, Jr.) Miller of Topeka, Edna Bowser of LaGrange; four brothers, Floyd (Ruby) Bontrager of Middlebury, Alvin (Amanda) Bontrager of Topeka, David (Katie) Bontrager of Shipshewana, Ernest (Vera) Bontrager of Millersburg; a brother-in-law, Wilbur Eash of TN, and a sister-in-law, Mary Jane Bontrager of Shipshewana.
He was preceded in death by his parents; a stillborn granddaughter; a brother, John Bontrager; and a sister, Orpha Eash.
Harley had been a farmer for most of his life and then had done woodworking for Schwartz Woodworking, where he was currently still working. He was a member of the Old Order Amish Church, where he was ordained as a Bishop in 1999.
Visitation will be after 2:00 pm on Tuesday May 2, all day Wednesday, May 3, at the family's residence, 10545 W. 500 S., Millersburg. Funeral services will be at 9:30 am on Thursday, May 4, at the Myron Miller residence, 10165 W. 500 S. Millersburg. Services will be conducted by the home ministers. The burial will be in Honeyville Cemetery, Topeka. Miller-Stewart Funeral Home, Middlebury is in charge of arrangements.
Bontrager, Lillie S. Miller
January 9, 1925 - July 12, 2023
Lillie S. Bontrager, 98, of Elida, OH, formerly of Goshen, IN, passed away peacefully at 7:51 am, on Wednesday, July 12, 2023, at her residence. She was born on January 9, 1925, in Elkhart County, IN, to Sam and Lydia Mae (Troyer) Miller. On January 17, 1946, in Elkhart County she married Daniel M. Bontrager, he died October 20, 2019.
Surviving are three daughters, Thelma (John) Smoll of Sturgis, MI, Elsie (Mike) Bauer of Lima, OH, Norma (Scott) Hunter of Muncie; three sons, Roman (Rebecca) Bontrager of Delphos, OH, Steven Bontrager of West Lawn, PA, James "Jim" (Rita) Bontrager of Hicksville, NY; 18 grandchildren, many great-grandchildren, several great-grandchildren; a sister, Lydia Mae Schwartz of Nottawa, MI.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; a daughter, Edith Bontrager; several great-grandchildren; seven sisters, Ella Chupp, Amanda Stutzman, Arlene Mast, Marie Mullet, Sarah Mae Chupp Helmuth, Ruby Hochstetler, and Rosa Lambright, four brothers, Seth, Sam, Tobie and Lester Miller.
Lillie was a homemaker and member of the Believers Christian Fellowship, Lima OH. She was a talented quilter and seamstress in her day.
Visitation will be from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm on Monday July 17, 2023, at Miller-Stewart Funeral Home, 1003 South Main Street Middlebury, IN. Funeral services will follow visitation beginning at 1:00 pm also on Monday at the funeral home. Services will be conducted by Pastors David Hunter and Chad Lamb. Burial will be in Clinton Union Cemetery, Goshen, IN.
Bontrager, Lydia Mae Gingerich
March 8, 1925 - March 19, 2023
Lydia Mae Bontrager, 98, Arlington, Washington, went to be with the Lord March 19, 2023, at 2:45 p.m. She was born to Joas and Magdalena (Hochstedler) Gingerich, March 8, 1925. She married Floyd J. Bontrager, December 12, 1949.
Together they had four children, Larry Dee (wife Patricia) of Kokomo, Indiana, Darlene Kay, Betty Jane (husband Edward Fobert), Ronald Ray (wife Rachel) of Arlington, Washington. She has 12 grandchildren, 13 great grandchildren, and 1 great great grandchild.
Those preceding her in death are her husband Floyd, her parents Joas and Mattie, daughters Darlene and Jane, daughters-in-law Nancy and Corrine, son-in-law Edward, and great grandson Ethan.
A service celebrating the life of Lydia Mae Bontrager will be held at 12 p.m. noon, Thursday, March 30, 2023, at the Howard-Miami Mennonite Church, Kokomo, Indiana with Pastor Lee Miller officiating. Burial will be in Christner Cemetery. Visitation will be from 10 a.m. to noon, Thursday at the Church.
Condolences can be made to Christian Aid Ministries in lieu of flowers at christianaidministries.org.
Services provided by Barton Family Funeral Services in Washington and Laird-Eddy Funeral Home in Indiana.
Bontrager, Mary A.
June 25, 1968 - February 20, 2023
Mary A. Bontrager, 54, of Shipshewana, (district: 38), died at 10:40 am on Monday, February 20, [2023] at her residence, following a brief battle with cancer. She was born on June 25, 1968, in LaGrange, to Amos R. and Wilma (Miller) Bontrager.
Surviving are six brothers, Ervin (Anna) Bontrager, Perry (Luella) Bontrager both of LaGrange, Ora (Mary) Bontrager of Shipshewana, Daniel (Ada Mae) Bontrager of Middlebury, Enos (Alma) Bontrager, Joe (Wanetta) Bontrager both of Shipshewana; three sisters, Ella (Henry) Mast of LaGrange, Lizzie Ann Bontrager, Ida Mae Bontrager both of Shipshewana; sister-in-law, Leanna Bontrager of Rome City.
She was preceded in death by her parents and a brother, David Bontrager.
Mary worked at E&S Sales in the bagging room and was a member of the Old Order Amish Church.
Visitation will be after 2:00 pm on Tuesday, February 21 and all-day Wednesday, February 22 at the family residence, 8370 W. 100 S., Shipshewana. Funeral services will be at 9:30 am on Thursday, February 23 also at the family residence. Services will be conducted by Bishop Glen Yoder and the home ministers. Burial will be in Yoder Cemetery, Shipshewana.
Bontrager, Sam S., Jr.
September 27, 1953 - November 28, 2023
Sam S. Bontrager, Jr., 70, of Wolcottville, (district: 23-2), died at 6:30 am on Tuesday, November 28, [2023] at his residence, after being in declining heath for a short time. He was born on September 27, 1953, in LaGrange, to Samuel R. and Susan J. (Miller) Bontrager. On October 28, 1976, in Shipshewana, he married Fannie Mae Miller, she survives.
Survivors in addition to his wife are two sons, Vernon (Edith) Bontrager of Wolcottville and LaVern (Lorraine) Bontrager of Shipshewana; two daughters, Ruth Ann (Vern) Yoder of Shipshewana and LaVera (Myron) Frey of Wolcottville; 11 grandchildren, Michael, Darin, Lucas, Keith, Olivia, Adam, Erin, Owen, Uriah, Letty, and Maybelle; stepmother, Miriam Bontrager of Wolcottville; three stepbrothers, Floyd (Irene) Barkman of Goshen, Levi Barkman of Millersburg, and Pete (Mary) Barkman of Wolcottville; five stepsisters, Lillie (Ervin) Hochstetler of Shipshewana, Louise (Clayton) Lambright of LaGrange, Barbara (David) Hostetler of Millersburg, Laura (Richard) Slabach of Shipshewana, and Lena (Devon) Miller of Millersburg.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Ervin and Orva Bontrager; sister, Mary Ellen Bontrager.
Sam worked as a carpenter for most of his life, most recently working with David R. construction company. He was a member of the Old Order Amish Church.
Visitation will be from 2:00 - 8:00 pm on Wednesday, November 29, and all-day Thursday, November 30, at the Myron and LaVera Frey Residence; 6225 South 200 West, Wolcottville. Funeral services will be at 9:30 am on Friday, December 1, at the same residence. Services will be conducted by Bishop Nathan A. Miller and the home ministers. Burial will be in Clearspring Cemetery, Topeka. Miller-Stewart Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.
Bontrager, Warren Edgar (MD)
April 15, 1927 - January 5, 2023
Warren Edgar Bontrager M.D., 95, of Goshen, Indiana, passed away January 5, 2023 at The Maples at Waterford Crossing. He was born April 15th, 1927 in Fairview, Michigan to Otis J. and Nora (Miller) Bontrager.
He married Edna Miller in 1949 and they had 5 children, Beverly (Leonard) Meuti, Wyman (Wendy Wampler), Dr. Warren D. (Linda), Wesley, Gordon (Dr. Cynthia).
He is survived by his wife Ruby (Yoder) Snyder, his children, 12 grandchildren and 12 great-children, 8 stepchildren and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, wife Edna, 2nd wife Annabelle (Miller), brothers Delbert (Grace), Willard (Millie), sisters Anna (Lloyd) Strang, Miriam (Mahlon) Gascho of Fairview, Michigan
Warren graduated from Fairview High School in 1945. He was a long-time member of the Fairview Mennonite Church. In 1947 he participated as an MCC "Seagoing Cowboy," transporting a shipload of horses to war-devastated Poland. Edna shared his strong commitment to serve and together they decided to work toward Warren becoming a physician. To that end he graduated from Goshen College while working full-time to support his growing family. He attended the University of Michigan Medical School, graduating in 1957.
In 1960, after an internship and two years of general practice in Akron, Ohio, Dr. Bontrager returned to Oscoda County, Michigan, establishing his medical practice in Mio. He continued there, retiring in 1996. His practice included house calls, delivering 1,600+ babies, providing anesthesia at Tolfree Memorial Hospital, seeing patients after hours at his home and his office, and even performing C-sections on both a cow and a pig successfully! He served as county coroner and medical examiner.
He was a founding board member of Kirtland Community College, continuing there for 22 years. He also served on other local boards. His community service was recognized by a number of local, regional and state organizations.
Throughout his long life, he was loved for his kindness, his compassion, and his ever-present sense of humor. His family believes that his faith in God, his commitment to service and his generosity defined his life.
A visitation will be held at Brenneman Memorial Missionary Church in Goshen on Tuesday, January 10th, 4:30 - 6:30 p.m. A visitation and memorial service will be held at Fairview Mennonite Church in Fairview, Michigan on Saturday, April 1st, time to be determined.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the Mennonite Central Committee or a charity of your choice.
Bontrager, William E.
August 8, 1940 - May 2, 2023
William E. Bontrager, 82, of Ligonier, (district: 21), died at 3:55 am on Tuesday, May 2, [2023] at his residence. He was born on August 8, 1940, in Shipshewana, to Ervin R. and Wilma W. (Miller) Bontrager. On October 19, 1961, in LaGrange County he married Lettie H. Eash, Lettie died December 30, 2021.
Surviving are five daughters, Arlene (David) Herschberger of Ligonier, Marietta (Tim) Lamdon of Goshen, Ada Mae (Ernest) Yoder of Middlebury, Leanna (John) Yoder of LaGrange, Vera (Harvey) Fry of Ligonier; seven sons, Orla (Ruth Ann) Bontrager of Shipshewana, Wilbur (Catrice) Bontrager of Rose, OK, Vernon (Lorene) Bontrager of LaGrange, Mahlon (Wanita Kay) Bontrager of Sears, MI, Mervin (Edith) Bontrager of Middlebury, Herman (Doris) Bontrager of LaGrange, Marion Bontrager of Goshen; 69 grandchildren, 109 great-grandchildren; sister, Ada (Daniel) Lehman of Shipshewana; two brothers, Amos (Nora) Bontrager of Shipshewana, Mahlon (Terri) Bontrager of LaGrange.
He was preceded in death by his wife; five grandchildren, four great-grandchildren; two infant brothers, Samuel and Perry Bontrager; infant sister, Pollyanna Bontrager.
William was a farmer, carpenter, and a senior bishop in the Old Order Amish Church.
Visitation will be after 1:00 pm on Thursday May 4, and all-day Friday, May 5, at the Robert Yoder residence: 11201 N. 400 W., Ligonier. Funeral services will be at 9:30 am on Saturday, May 6, at the same residence. Services will be conducted by the home ministers. Burial will be in Clearspring Cemetery, Topeka.
Bontreger, Charles E. "Chuck"
May 24, 1950 - September 4, 2023
Charles “Chuck” E. Bontreger, 73, of Fort Wayne and formerly of Goshen, passed away Monday, September 4, 2023, at Byron Health Center, Fort Wayne.
He was born May 24, 1950 in Goshen to Rev. Vernon E. and Miriam L. (Hoover) Bontreger.
He is survived by three children, Jessica (Jay) Lapp of Ann Arbor, Michigan, Derek (Jamie) Bontreger of Goshen, Scott (Adriana) Bontreger of Bristol; six grandchildren, Nola and Milo Lapp, Bernadette and Jude Bontreger, Lincoln and Ethan Bontreger; five brothers, Cecil (June) Bontreger of Goshen, John (Cindi) Bontreger of Fishers, Jason (Linda) Bontreger of Goshen, Mark Bontreger of Watertown, South Dakota, Wesley (Cheryl) Bontreger of Goshen.
A 1968 graduate of Bethany Christian High School, Chuck attended Hesston College and graduated from Goshen College in 1975 with a BA in business. He was a salesman for Moorman’s Feeds and Signature Inn, and later worked for Rollpak and Yellow Creek Mennonite Church.
Chuck enjoyed music, especially country, gospel, oldies, and classic rock. He had a tender loving spirit and deeply loved and adored his family, children, and grandchildren. He is remembered by many for being a bit of a prankster and for his dry and sarcastic sense of humor.
Visitation will be at Clinton Frame Church on Sunday, September 10, from 2 to 5 p.m. and Monday, from 2:30 until the 3:30 p.m. funeral service. Pastor Sebastiano Rosa and brother Wesley Bontreger will officiate.
Burial will follow in Clinton Frame Cemetery.
Memorial donations may be given to Bethany Christian Schools or Clinton Frame Church.
Bontreger, Harold L.
December 30, 1926 - December 28, 2023
Harold L. Bontreger, 96, of Goshen died Thursday, December 28, 2023 at the Laurels of Goshen.
He was born December 30, 1926 in Goshen to Levi E. and Fannie Mae (Kauffman) Bontreger.
On March 6, 1949 he married Anna Belle Nelson. She died August 10, 2014. He later married Lois (Whitehead) Kaufman. She died July 30, 2021.
He is survived by a son, Tim (Laurie) Bontreger of Goshen; daughter in law, Becky Bontreger of Middlebury; five grandchildren, Tori (Brad) Blosser, Amy Stutzman, Jamie (Naomi) Cross, Kristian (Shana) Bontreger, and Michael (Bridgett) Cross; nine great grandchildren; a great-great grandson; and a brother, Thomas Bontreger of Middlebury.
Also surviving are two step-children, Gail (Kevin) Brumbaugh, Wakarusa, and Donald (Kris) Kaufman, Chagrin Falls, Ohio.
Along with his parents and wives, he was preceded in death by a son, Kent Bontreger; two sisters, Mary K. Miller and Ann Bahr; and a step-son Charles Kaufman.
Mr. Bontreger was co-owner of Middlebury Produce. Harold was an active and long-time member of Clinton Frame Church. He was an avid traveler and enjoyed visiting places around the world.
Visitation will be Thursday, January 4, 2024 from 3 to 7 p.m. at Clinton Frame Church, 63846 C.R. 35, Goshen, IN 46528.
A 10 a.m. memorial service will be held Friday, January 5, 2024 at Clinton Frame Church. Pastor Ken Bontreger and Rev. Timothy Yoder will officiate.
Private burial will take place in Clinton Frame Cemetery.
Memorial gifts may be directed to Clinton Frame Youth Fund or The Window, 223 South Main Street, Goshen, IN 46526.
Yoder-Culp Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.
Bontreger, Ruby Fern Miller
March 15, 1938 - April 9, 2023
Ruby Fern Bontreger, 85, of Middlebury, died unexpectedly at 1:59 pm on Sunday, April 9 [2023] at her residence. She was born on March 15, 1938, in LaGrange County, to Olen and Edna (Miller) Miller. On September 7, 1957, in Middlebury, she married Thomas R. Bontreger, he survives.
Survivors in addition to her husband are daughter, Susan (Rick Reid) Christophel of Maryville, TN; two sons, Michael (Dawn) Bontreger of Bristol, John Bontreger of Goshen; five grandchildren, Abigail Christophel of Chicago, IL, Graham Christophel of Murfreesboro, TN, Jena (Lucian Boar) Bontreger of Columbia City, Kody (Brie) Bontreger of Elkhart, Leah (Carlos Rodriguez) Bontreger of Durham, NC; three step grandchildren, Chris Blessing, Brandon (Lilly) Blessing, Aaron (Jesse) Blessing all of Elkhart; sister, Mary Schrock of Middlebury; two brothers, Orvan (Jan) Miller of Wolcottville, Delbert (Bonnie Hawkins) Miller of Cheyenne, WY.
She was preceded in death by her parents; two sisters, Vera Sue Miller and Louella Miller; a stepbrother, Glen Schlabach.
Ruby graduated from Middlebury High School in 1957. She was an active member of First Mennonite Church in Middlebury, where she taught Bible School and Sunday School, was a member of the choir and women's sewing group, served on the Visitation Team and was a Stephen's Minister. She was a homemaker and former operator of the Bontreger Bed & Breakfast. Ruby was an avid quilter, having donated many quilts to the Mennonite Relief Sale and a fan of IU basketball.
She and her husband Tom were largely responsible for Goldenrod, a home for special needs adults, on land they had donated. Ruby and Tom also enjoyed traveling extensively.
Visitation will be from 2:00 - 4:00 pm and 6:00 - 8:00 pm on Friday, April 14 at Miller-Stewart Funeral Home, 1003 South Main Street, Middlebury. There will also be one hour of visitation prior to the 11:00 am funeral service on Saturday, April 15 also at the funeral home. Services will be conducted by Pastors Phil Yoder and Tim Eash. Burial will be in Grace Lawn Cemetery, Middlebury. Memorials may be given to Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) or Mennonite Economic Development Associates (MEDA).
Borkholder, Clara A. Hershberger
December 19, 1936 - January 11, 2023
Clara A. Borkholder, age 86 of Bourbon, IN, passed away at 5:20 am on Wednesday morning, January 11, 2023 at her residence after an extended illness. Clara was born on December 19, 1936 in Union Town, OH to Atlee and Catherine (Miller) Hershberger. Mrs. Borkholder moved to the Nappanee, IN area after marrying Monroe A. Borkholder on October 10, 1963 in Union Town, OH. She was a member of the Old Order Amish Church.
Surviving is her husband of more than 59 years, Monroe A. Borkholder of Bourbon; 7 children: Mary Catherine (Larry) Helmuth of Bourbon, Aaron (Lizzie) Borkholder of Bourbon, Thomas (Ruby) Borkholder of Bremen, IN, Rachel (Scott) Hochstetler of Nappanee, Diana (Stephen) Schwartz of Nappanee, Ruth (Melvin) Lehman of Nappanee, and Mark (Linda) Borkholder of Nappanee; 36 grandchildren; 34 great grandchildren; and a sister-in-law, Anna May Hershberger of Winesburg, OH.
Clara was preceded in death by her parents; a son, David Borkholder; a grandson, Timothy Borkholder; 2 brothers, Jonas and Eli Hershberger; and a sister, Mary Hershberger.
Visitation will be held after 2 pm on Thursday, January 12, 2023 and all-day Friday, January 13, 2023 at the Aaron Borkholder residence (5802 Beech Rd, Bourbon, IN). Funeral services will be held at 9:30 am on Saturday, January 14, 2023 at the Larry Helmuth residence (5807 Beech Rd, Bourbon, IN) with Home Ministries of the Old Order Amish Church officiating. Burial will take place in Cedar Road Cemetery, Bourbon. Arrangements are with Thompson-Lengacher & Yoder Funeral Home, Nappanee.
Borkholder, Elizabeth "Betty" Kuhns
July 30, 1940 - October 15, 2023
Betty (Elizabeth) Borkholder, age 83, of New Paris, Indiana, died from injuries due to a car accident in Nappanee on Sunday evening, October 15, 2023. She was born on July 30, 1940 to Daniel M. and Iona (Helmuth) Kuhns in Elkhart County. Betty was as member of the Old Order Amish Church and on September 5, 1963, she married Amos P. Borkholder, with whom she recently celebrated 60 years of marriage.
Surviving is her husband, Amos; children, Norman (Christina) Borkholder of New Paris, Lonnie (Rhonda) Borkholder of Nappanee, Lamar (Rebecca) Borkholder of New Paris, and Dale (Esther) Borkholder of New Paris; 15 grandchildren; 40 great grandchildren; brothers and sisters, Alvin (Donna) Kuhns of Cottonwood, Arizona, Otis Kuhns of Milford, Lotus (Loretta) Kuhns of Goshen, Katie Harshberger and Ruby Fry, both of Nappanee; step sisters, Alice (Melvin) Fry of Topeka, Mary (Herbert) Miller of Wakarusa, and Ruby (Delbert) Slabaugh of Shipshewana;* step brothers, Marvin (Mary) Borkholder, Kenny (Mary) Borkholder, and Leroy (Clara) Borkholder, all of Burr Oak, Michigan.
Betty was preceded in death by her parents; a great granddaughter, Nicole Ann Miller; step father, Harvey Borkholder; brother, Raymond Kuhns; sisters, Sadie Miller, Esther Hershberger, Martha Miller, and Mary Jane Kuhns; step sisters, Katherine Borkholder and Martha Schwartz.
Visitation will be on Tuesday, October 17, 2023 after 2pm and all day Wednesday, October 18, 2023, all at the family home (20750 CR 50, New Paris). A funeral service will take place on Thursday, October 19, 2023 at 9:30am also at the family home. Bishop Marlin Miller and the Home Ministries of the Old Order Amish Church will officiate and burial will take place at West Union Center Cemetery, Nappanee.
Borkholder, Etta Schmucker
March 7, 1948 - October 29, 2023
Etta (Schmucker) Borkholder, age 75 of Nappanee, died at 1:04 am, Sunday, October 29, 2023 at her residence. She was born on March 7, 1948. She was the daughter of Earl and Mary (Miller) Schmucker. On June 4, 1970, she married Larry Borkholder. She was a homemaker and a member of the Old Order Amish Church.
Mrs. Borkholder is survived by her husband, Larry Borkholder; children, David (Regina) Borkholder, Milford, Ruth (Glenn) Miller, Nappanee, Rose (Kenneth) Slabaugh, Nappanee, Devon Borkholder, Pierceton, Jean (James) Miller, Nappanee; 19 grandchildren; 5 great grandchildren; sisters, Clara (Raymond) Yoder, Topeka, Ruth (Lyle) Hochstetler, Ligonier, Dorothy (Merlin) Yoder, Nappanee, Judy (Maynard) Hostetler, Topeka; brothers, Elmer (Katie) Schmucker, Garnet, KS, Raymond Schmucker, Dale, IL; Howard (Lisa) Schmucker, Bremen, Eugene (Mary) Schmucker, Bremen; and sister-in-law, Donna Schmucker, Nappanee.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Earl and Mary Schmucker; brother, John Schmucker; brother-in-law, Merle Yoder; sister-in-law, Fern Schmucker; and nephews, Jonathan and Kenneth Schmucker.
Family and friends may call after 2, Monday, October 30, 2023 and all day Tuesday, October 31st at Mark Borkholder's residence, 13920 N 1100 W, Nappanee. Funeral services will begin at 9:30, Wednesday, November 1st also at the Borkholder residence. Home Ministry of the Old Order Amish Church will officiate and burial will be in Weldy Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Dennis Troyer, Earl Schwartz, John Helmuth, Floyd Bontrager, Lyle Dean Schwartz, and Allen Schwartz.
Arrangements are with Thompson-Lengacher & Yoder Funeral Home, Nappanee.
Borkholder, Janna Rose
June 1, 2023 - June 1, 2023
Janna Rose Borkholder, infant daughter of Devon and Wilma (Farmwald) Borkholder, died shortly after birth, Thursday, June 1, 2023 at Bremen Hospital.
Surviving are her parents; siblings, Jeffrey Dale, Joas Dean, Jeremiah Daniel, Jamima Dawn, Julie Esther, Jalen Duane, Jase Lamar all at home; grandparents, Glen Devon and Ida Mae (Schmucker) Borkholder, Nappanee, Merle Ray and Anna Marie (Borkholder) Farmwald, Nappanee; great grandmother, Dorothy Borkholder, Nappanee; and great grandparents, Rudy and Mary Schmucker, West Union, OH.
Family and friends may call from 10-2 Friday at the family home and will go in procession to Weldy Cemetery at 2:00 pm for Graveside Service. Home Ministry of the Old Order Amish Church will officiate.
Borkholder, Norine Kay
August 16, 1965 - September 25, 2023
Norine Kay Borkholder, 58, of Goshen, (district: 73), died at 3:56 pm, on Monday, September 25, [2023] at her residence, after a seven-year battle with cancer. She was born on August 16, 1965, in Goshen, to Ira and Arlowene (Slabach) Borkholder.
Surviving are three brothers, John (Shirley) Borkholder of Shipshewana, Larry (Alta) Borkholder, Lavon (Rita) Borkholder both of Goshen; sister-in-law, Marilyn Borkholder of Nappanee; eight nieces, 13 nephews, many great nieces and nephews, and many friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Loren Borkholder; nephew, Jeremy Borkholder.
She was the owner of Norine’s Herbs and a member of the Old Order Amish Church.
Visitation will be after 2:00 pm on Tuesday, September 26 and all-day Wednesday, September 27 at the Andrew Borkholder residence, 14835 CR 34, Goshen. Funeral services will be at 9:30 am on Thursday, September 28 at the same residence. Services will be conducted by Bishop Simon Schmucker and the home ministers. Burial will be in Clinton Union Cemetery, Goshen.
Borntrager, Lloyd Eugene
November 6, 1937 - November 13, 2023
Lloyd Eugene Borntrager, 86, of Goshen, passed away Monday, November 13, 2023, at his home.
He was born November 5, 1937 in Hartville, Ohio to Chris “Giddle” and Lydiann (Miller) Borntrager.
On July 6, 1958 he married Evelyn E. Miller in Shipshewana. She died February 18, 2017.
Survivors include two daughters, Bonnie Borntrager of New Paris and Linda Borntrager of Goshen; a son-in-law, Dennis (Marty) Mast of Goshen; six grandchildren, Caleb (Amanda) Mast, Ethan (Jayme) Mast, Zachary (Kyla) Grass, Quinn (Lesley) Grass, Dean (Katie) Grass and Anna (Riley) Miller; 20 great-grandchildren; three brothers, Urie Borntrager of Sarasota, Florida, Milton (Jo Ann) Borntrager of Louisville, Kentucky and Larry Borntrager of Middlebury; two sisters, Verda Vallejo of Phoenix, Arizona and Elsie Borntrager of Goshen and two sisters-in-law, Pauline and LaVerda Borntrager.
Along with his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by two daughters, Brenda Mast and Pamela Borntrager and three brothers, Calvin, LeRoy and Ernie Borntrager.
A carpenter, Mr. Borntrager worked for D&M Construction for the life of that company, building many commercial buildings in Elkhart County. He also worked for RPM Supply and after retirement worked at Veada.
Visitation will be Thursday, November 16, 2023, from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. at Yoder-Culp Funeral Home and again Friday, November 17, 2023, from 10 a.m. until the 11 a.m. funeral service at Siloam Fellowship, 61616 Co Rd 35, Goshen, IN 46528.
Burial will follow in Elkhart Prairie Cemetery.
Memorial donations may be given to Adult and Teen Challenge Northern Indiana.
Bowman, Kenneth T.
December 10, 1939 - october 21, 2023
Kenneth T. Bowman, 83, of Lancaster, passed away on Saturday, October 21, 2023 at Brethren Village. He was the loving husband of Mary Catherine (Garber) Bowman. Born in Lancaster, PA he was the son of the late Paul K. and Mary H. (Thomas) Bowman.
He spent much of his career as a farmer and a plumber. He was an active member of New Danville Mennonite Church.
In addition to his wife, Mary Catherine, he is survived by children, Kaye Witmer (wife of Kirk) of Ephrata, PA and Kevin Bowman (husband of Anna Ruth) of Lancaster, PA. Also surviving are two grandchildren, Grace and Nathan Witmer as well as two sisters, Ruth Ann Martin and Mary Brown. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by two brothers, Robert and Thomas Bowman.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend a memorial service at New Danville Mennonite Church, 103 Marticville Rd., Lancaster, PA 17603 on Thursday, October 26, 2023 at 11:00 AM. An open casket viewing will be held at the church on Wednesday, October 25, 2023 from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM. A visitation will also be held on Thursday from 9:30 AM until the time of the service. Burial will be private and at the convenience of the family in the adjoining church cemetery.
Bowman, Lucinda Brubacher
November 29, 1946 - November 16, 2023
Bowman, Lucinda (Mrs. Menno)
Passed away peacefully on Thursday, November 16, 2023 at her home, RR 1, Wallenstein. Lucinda (Brubacher) Bowman, age 76 years.
Mother of Melvin and Velina Bowman of RR 1, Wallenstein, Rachel and Mark Brubacher of RR 3, Wallenstein, Emerson Bowman, Cathrine Bowman of RR 1, Wallenstein, Adeline Bowman of RR 3, Wallenstein. Also survived by 11 grandchildren. Sister of Henry and Salome Brubacher, Lena and Amos Knorr, Sidney and Susannah Brubacher, Herman and Lovina Brubacher, Elmer and Minerva Brubacher, sister-in-law Irene (Aaron) Martin.
Predeceased by her husband Menno B. Bowman (1996), her parents Ephraim and Amanda (Martin) Brubacher, siblings Melinda and Noah Brubacher, Harvey and Selinda Brubacher, Mahlon Brubacher (in infancy), Anna and Aaron Martin, and sister-in-law Seleda (Herman) Brubacher.
Family will receive relatives and friends on Saturday, November 18, 2023, from 2-5 p.m. and on Sunday, November 19, 2023, from 2-6 p.m. at the family home, 7480 Line 86, Wallenstein.
A family service will be held at her home on Monday, November 20, 2023 at 9 a.m. then to Peel Mennonite Meeting House for burial and public service.
Bowman, Minerva Sauder
August 19, 1927 - May 19, 2023
Minerva S. (Sauder) Bowman, 95, of New Holland, passed away on May 19, 2023 in WellSpan Ephrata Hospital. Born in East Earl, she was the daughter of the late Charles E. and Eva (Horning) Sauder. She was the wife of the late Edwin S. Bowman, who passed away in 2006. She was a member of Mountain Spring Mennonite Church and was a homemaker.
Minerva is survived by her children: Nelson L. husband of Mary Ann Bowman, James C. husband of Lois M. Bowman, Lois Ann wife of Gerald Martin, Richard L. husband of Esther Bowman, Jane Marie wife of Quentin Hess and Nevin J. husband of Mary Grace Bowman, thirty-two grandchildren, seventy-one great grandchildren, eleven great great grandchildren and seven siblings.
In addition to her parents and her husband, she is predeceased by an infant daughter, Jean Louise Bowman, a granddaughter, Jaylene Hess, and three siblings.
A funeral service will be held on Thursday, May 25, 2023 at Martindale Mennonite Church, 171 Hurst Road, Ephrata, PA 17522 at 10:00 AM. There will be a viewing held for one hour prior to the service and on Wednesday, May 24, 2023 from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM in the church. Interment in Weaverland Mennonite Cemetery. Kindly omit flowers. C. Stanley Eckenroth Home for Funerals in Terre Hill is entrusted with the funeral arrangements.