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
T to V
Thompson, Martha "Marti" Stauffer
July 20, 1945 - May 27, 2023
Martha “Marti” Thompson, age 77, passed away peacefully Saturday morning, May 27, 2023, at her apartment in Greencroft, Goshen, after an extended illness.
Marti was born at the former Luckey Hospital in Wolf Lake, Noble County, Indiana, on July 20, 1945, to Glenn E and Mary I (Pepple) Stauffer. She married Terry Thompson on September 5, 1965, in Osceola. Terry preceded her in death in August 2016.
She spent her earlier years living in several locations where her father served in Church of the Brethren ministries, including Maine, Chicago, Southern Illinois, and Alabama.
She spent her teenage years in Elkhart County, graduating from Jimtown High School in 1963.
After High School she served with the Brethren Volunteer Service (BVS), working at a daycare for children of migrant workers in Belle Glade, Florida, and as an administrative assistant at the BVS headquarters in New Windsor, Maryland. It was during BVS that she met her future husband.
Terry and Marti spent most of their married lives in Milford. She worked in administrative positions for several organizations in the area, including 17 years at Goshen College, and 5 years at Grace Brethren International Missions (GBIM) in Winona Lake, where she provided logistical support for short-term mission trips. In 2004, she went on a short-term mission with GBIM to the Philippines.
Marti was actively involved with many Brethren congregations in the area, serving as a deacon, pianist, church secretary, and member of the choir.
She was also active with the Special Olympics, where she and Terry provided support to athletes at many events. Marti also served on the Governor’s Council for People with Disabilities and was a strong advocate for families with special-needs children.
She enjoyed reading, socializing with friends, working on puzzles, playing games, and spending time with her grandchildren.
Over her life, she traveled to several parts in the US including Hawaii, Alaska, many National Parks in the West, and to the light houses on Lake Michigan.
Marti is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Richard “Rick” and Amy Thompson, Baltimore, Maryland, daughter Beth Ann Thompson, Goshen, and three granddaughters: Megan Thompson, Mishawaka, Lauren Thompson, Baltimore, and Alexandra Thompson, Baltimore. Also surviving are her sister and husband Carolyn and Lester Krull, Goshen, brother and wife Harvey “Ole Harv” and Armida Stauffer, South Bend, sisters-in-law, Janine Katonah, Davis, California, Roma Jo Thompson, Bridgewater, Virginia, and Madilyn Brown, Bradenton, Florida, sister-in-law and husband, Joy and William Sauder, Churubusco, and several cousins, nephews, and nieces.
Marti was an outgoing and kind-hearted soul who will be greatly missed by her family and many friends.
The family will receive visitors between 2 pm to 4 pm and 6 pm to 8 pm on Wednesday, May 31 at Creekside Church of the Brethren, CR 113 Elkhart. A funeral service will be held at Creekside at 11 am on Thursday, June 1 with Pastor Rosanna McFadden officiating. A graveside service and burial will occur at 11 am Friday, June 2 at the Riverside Cemetery, West Milton, Ohio, Reverend Tim Scroggs presiding.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Marti’s honor can be sent to Special Olympics Indiana, 6200 Technology Center Dr #105, Indianapolis, IN 46278; https://soindiana.org/ , Camp Mack, PO Box 158, Milford, IN 46542; https://www.campmack.org/ , or Heifer International, 1 World Ave., Little Rock, AR 72202; https://www.heifer.org.
Yoder-Culp Funeral Home is assisting with arrangements.
Troyer, Alvin N.
April 13, 1945 - May 27, 2023
Alvin N. Troyer, 78, of Sugarcreek, joyfully entered the presence of his Savior on Saturday, May 27, 2023. He spent the last week in the hospital with the complications of congestive heart failure. He was born in Holmes County on April 13, 1945 to the late Noah J. and Ella (Miller) Troyer. He attended Sunnyside Mennonite Church while in Florida, and Oasis Tabernacle in Sugarcreek.
He is survived by his brother, Albert (Jenny) Troyer of Millersburg; three sisters, Mary (late Emra) Troyer, Esther (late Wyman) Wengerd, and Emma (Eli) Yoder all of Sugarcreek; sister-in-law Marilyn (Ray) Troyer of Millersburg; 31 nieces and nephews; numerous great nieces and nephews; step-brothers, Robert (Ruth) Miller, Andy (Ada) Miller, Eddie (Sara Sue) Miller; step-sisters, Robert (Adah) Yoder and Mary (late Henry) Beachy; and step in-law Pete S. (late Anna) Miller.
Preceding him in death were his parents, two brothers, Roy and Ray; a sister Katie (late Mose) Wengerd; in-laws Emra and Wyman; step-brother, Alfred (late Susan) and step-sister, Anna (Pete) Miller.
Services will be held on Wednesday, May 31, 2023 at 10:00 AM at Oasis Tabernacle in Sugarcreek with Wayne Weaver and Marvin Wengerd officiating. Burial will follow in Berlin Twp. Community Cemetery. Friends may call on Tuesday from 2-4 & 6-8 PM at the church and on Wednesday from 9-10 AM at the church prior to services. Arrangements are being handled by Smith-Varns Funeral Home in Sugarcreek.
Troyer, Anna Mae Stutzman
December 16, 1928 - December 30, 2023
Anna Mae (Stutzman) Troyer, 95, of Goshen, passed away Saturday, December 30, 2023, at Raclin House, Mishawaka.
She was born December 16, 1928, in Cairo Nebraska to David and Emma (Jausi) Stutzman.
On February 14, 1948, she married Alfred Troyer in Middlebury. He died April 25, 1994.
Survivors include two children, Patricia Weaver of Indianapolis and Randall (Candi) Troyer of Middlebury; eight grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; two sisters, Dera Lea Klanecky of St. Paul, Nebraska and Merna Matejka of Ravenna, Nebraska; and a daughter-in-law, Joan (Douglas) Troyer Bloomberg of Meridianville, Alabama.
Along with her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by a son, Allen Ray Troyer; a son-in-law, Dennis Weaver and nine siblings, Arthur, Nina, Elizabeth, Floyd, Dean and Larry Stutzman, Lucille Schieve, Elsie Brown and Margaret Telles.
A longtime resident of the area, Mrs. Troyer was a member of Belmont Mennonite Church where she was involved in the kitchen, preparing many meals for funerals and fellowship gatherings.
She retired in 1980 as cafeteria manager for Elkhart Community Schools.
Visitation will be Friday, January 5, 2024, from 3 to 7 p.m. at Yoder-Culp Funeral Home.
A 9 a.m., Saturday, January 6, 2024, graveside service will be held at Olive West Cemetery, Elkhart. An 11 a.m. memorial service will follow at Belmont Mennonite Church, 925 Oxford St, Elkhart. Pastor Phil Schmidt will officiate.
Memorial donations may be given to Water for Life -Haiti or Belmont Mennonite Church.
Troyer, Dan L.
December 10, 1937 - April 4, 2023
Dan L. Troyer 85, of 3520 CR 70, Sugarcreek, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Tuesday, April 4, 2023.
He was born on December 10, 1937 to the late Levi and Lizzie (Miller) Troyer. On September 17, 1959 he married Emma J. Schlabach who survives.
Dan was a timber cutter and employed at Yoder Lumber for 40 years. He was a member of the Old Order Amish Church.
In addition to his wife Emma he is survived by his children, Mabel (Mike) Miller of Sarasota, FL, Mary Ann (Mervin) Miller of Apple Creek, Sarah (Marty) Troyer of Orrville, Wilma (Wayne) Miller of Sugarcreek, Eldon (Susan) Troyer of the home, LeRoy (Karen) Troyer of Sugarcreek, Ruby (Marvin) Yoder of Coshocton; son-in-law, Ervin (Nettie) Miller of Apple Creek; 37 grandchildren; 74 great-grandchildren; siblings, Jonas (Cynthia) Troyer of Pensacola, FL, Amanda (late Vernon) Kline of Charm, Mary (Henry B.) Yoder of Charm, Emma (Abe E.) Mast of Millersburg, Ella (Aden) Miller of Walnut Creek; and sister-in-law, Effie (late Atlee) Troyer of Berlin.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his daughter, Liz Miller; grandson, Austin Miller; brothers, Mose (Dena) Troyer, Atlee Troyer; and a brother-in-law, Vernon Kline.
Funeral services will be held at the home on Friday, April 7, at 9:00 AM with Bishop Reuben Troyer officiating. Burial will follow in the Shetler Cemetery. Friends may call at the home after 2 PM on Wednesday and any time on Thursday.
A special thank you on behalf of Emma to the family for all their help and also to LifeCare Hospice for their compassionate care.
Troyer, Dennis R.
January 28, 1952 - February 27, 2023
Dennis R. Troyer, 71, of Shipshewana, passed into the presence of his Lord and Savior at 10:00 am on Monday, February 27, [2023] at his residence. His death was very unexpected and was due to natural causes. He was born on January 28, 1952 in LaGrange to Glenn S. and Luella M. (Christner) Troyer. On May 23, 1981, in Shore Church, he married Kathleen S. Miller, she survives.
Survivors in addition to his wife are a son, Ryan N. (Randi) Troyer of Marion; a daughter, Kimberly S. (Eric) Schmucker of Harrisonburg, VA; three grandchildren, Nikkolette Troyer, Zachary Schmucker, Quinn Schmucker, and a fourth expected grandchild, Colton Troyer, arriving this March; five sisters, Roberta Steider of Shipshewana, Janet Weaver of Elkhart, Dorothy Troyer of Goshen, Nancy Yoder of Eustis, FL, and Carol Troyer of Shipshewana.
He was preceded in death by his parents; three brothers, Gerald, James and David Troyer.
Denny graduated from the International Junior College in Fort Wayne in 1972 with the associate degree in accounting. He and his wife were the owners/operators of Troyer's Saddlery, Troyer's Carriage Company, and Country Corral Restaurant for the last 42 years. He was a lifelong member of Shore Church, where he was very active in mission trips, Bible Study Fellowship, and teaching Sunday School. He also sang on the worship team, served as church moderator and in other various commissions. He served as a volunteer for the Shipshewana Fire Department from 1984 to 2015. He dearly loved his grandchildren and expressed his love to his family and community through his many acts of service to them.
Visitation will be from 2:00 - 8:00 pm on Friday, March 3, at Miller-Stewart Funeral Home, 1003 South Main Street Middlebury. A graveside service will be held at 10:00 am on Saturday, March 4, at Shore Cemetery, Shipshewana. A memorial service will follow the graveside beginning at 10:30 am at Shore Church, Shipshewana. Services will be conducted by Pastor Nic Raber. Memorials may be given to American Diabetes Association, Rainbow Years Learning Ministry, or Bible Study Fellowship.
Troyer, Dwight Winfred
October 20, 1958 - January 16, 2023
Dwight Winfred Troyer of Unity, WI, passed away Jan.16, 2023 at the St. Joseph's hospital in Marshfield, WI. He is survived by Susan, his wife of 43 years; seven sons and three daughters, Lawrence (Rosanne) of Browerville, MN, Adella (Kevin) of Webster, SD, Nevin (Wendy) of Fruita, CO, Curtis (Rosetta) of Colby, WI, Sterling (Lisa) of Spencer, WI, Stanford (Kerra) Of Unity, WI, Jay (Kelsie) of Stratford, WI, Florinda (John) of Coolidge, AZ, Kendall (Sarah) of Montezuma, GA, Dorothea (Yannick) of Fort Worth, TX; 37 grandchildren; his mother, Pauline Troyer of Unity, WI; four brothers, Titus of Farmington, NM, Wilbur, of Moorcroft, WY, Paul, of Weiser, ID, Clinton, of LaGrande, OR; one sister, Margaret(Tim) of Hayward, WI.
Dwight was preceded in death by his father, Loyal Troyer, and a grandson, Wyatt Troyer.
He was born October 20, 1958, at Orville, OH to Loyal & Pauline Troyer and was the oldest of their six children. Their family moved to Grandin, MO when he was ten yrs. old. He accepted Christ at a young age. Throughout his teen years, Dwight worked hard in helping his parents homestead and build up the farm.
Dwight married Susan Zimmerman on July 7,1979. They made their home at Grandin the first seven years of their marriage. In October of 1986 they moved to Central WI, and this has been home for the past 36 years.
Dad's line of work varied through the years from hog farming to dairy farming, to building furniture, and working for Kulp's of Stratford in reroofing. The past 15 years he enjoyed meeting friends and neighbors through his work at Nutri-Choice.
Dad always enjoyed a good conversation and had a soft heart for those who were hurting or suffering. He took pleasure in singing and his deep bass added a rich dimension to the family choir and to congregational singing. He loved his grandchildren and took time to talk with them, and it was their delight when Grandpa handed out suckers from the store. Dad also enjoyed spending time in the outdoors with his boys.
Dwight was a member of the Bethany Mennonite Church. He will be missed greatly because he loved many.
Committal Service: Jan. 21, 2023, Bethany Mennonite Cemetery, 218400 Wescott Ave., Stratford, WI.
Troyer, Eli A.
April 8, 1950 - January 5, 2023
Deacon Eli A. Troyer, age 72, died January 5, 2023 in his home after an extended illness.
He was born April 8, 1950 to the late Andrew D. and Clara J. (Yoder) Troyer. On April 6, 1972 he married Katie L. Hershberger. He was a member of the Old Order Amish.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by his children, John (Mattie) Troyer of the home, Henry (Barbara) Troyer, Andy (Edna) Troyer, Levi (Laura) Troyer, Eli (Ruth) Troyer, David (Mattie) Troyer, Alvin (Netty) Troyer, Raymond (Susie) Troyer, Anna (David) Raber, Clara (Noah)Raber, and Katie Raber; 83 grandchildren, 2 great grandchildren; brothers, Henry (Mattie) Troyer of Fredericktown, Davey (Fannie) Troyer of Hillsboro, and John (Elizabeth) Troyer of Howard; sisters, Ella (John) Hershberger of Howard, and Clara (Mosie) Hostetler of Conowanga, NY; brother-in-law, Dan (Ada) Hostetler of Conowanga, NY; sisters-in-law, Edna Troyer, and Mary Troyer of Howard.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two brothers, Andy and Alvin Troyer; a sister, Mary Hostetler; and a grandson, Eli R. Troyer.
Funeral Services will take place at the residence, 28582 New Castle Rd. Walhonding, OH 43843, at 9:00 a.m. Sunday January 8. Bishop Ammon Raber will officiate. Burial will be in the Troyer Cemetery on Wharton Lane in Butler Township. Family and friends may call any time. The Fischer Funeral Home is assisting the family.
Troyer, Eli E.
May 6, 1943 - March 29, 2023
Eli E. Troyer, 79, of 2484 S. Kansas Road, Apple Creek, passed away on Wednesday, March 29, 2023 at his home.
He was born in Wayne County on May 6, 1943 to the late Eli D. and Emma D. (Miller) Troyer and married Nettie A. Troyer on December 14, 1967 and she survives.
He was a member of the Old Order Amish Church.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by children, Laura (Robert) Raber of Orrville, Iva (Leroy) Miller of Apple Creek and Raymond (Susie) Troyer of Apple Creek; 24 grand children; 12 great grandchildren; and a brother, David Troyer of Fredericksburg.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by 4 brothers, 2 sisters, and a grandchild.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday, April 1, 2023 at 9:00 am at the family residence with Bishop Henry C. Miller officiating. Burial will be in the Troyer Cemetery in East Union Township. Friends may call anytime on Thursday or Friday at the family residence. Spidell Funeral Home in Mount Eaton is handling the arrangements.
Troyer, Katie J. Troyer
January 4, 1933 - January 5, 2023
Katie J. Troyer, 90, of 11323 Salt Creek Road, Fredericksburg, passed away on Thursday, January 5, 2023 at her home.
She was born in Millersburg on January 4, 1933 to the late Jonas A. and Ella (Raber) Troyer and married Albert M. Troyer on February 21, 1957. He died March 16, 2017.
She was a member of the Old Order Amish Church.
She is survived by children, Levi A. (Betty Ann) Troyer of Holmesville, Mary A. (Andy) Troyer of Fredericksburg, Laura A. (Daniel R.) Miller of the home and Raymond A. (Esta) Troyer of Millersburg; 26 grandchildren; 31 great grandchildren; sisters, Amanda Miller of Fredericksburg, Anna (Joe) Troyer of Conneautville, PA and Fannie (Dan) Hershberger of Kinsman, OH; sisters-in-law, Susan Troyer of Apple creek, Katie Troyer of Dundee and Bena Miller of Millersburg.
In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by sisters, Mary, Ella and Mattie; and brothers Levi and Joas.
Funeral services will be held on Sunday, January 8, 2023 at 9:00 am at the family residence with Bishop Eddie Hershberger officiating. Burial will follow in the Miller Cemetery, Salt Creek Township, Holmes County. Friends may call anytime after 11:00 am on Friday and anytime on Saturday at the family residence. Spidell Funeral Home in Mount Eaton is handling the arrangements.
Troyer, Kenneth Leroy
May 3, 1942 - December 9, 2023
Kenneth Leroy Troyer of Comins, Michigan passed away peacefully on Saturday December 9th [2023] at home, surrounded by his loved ones. Ken was born May 3rd, 1942, in Mio, Michigan to Roman and Lunette Troyer. He married his beloved bride, Joan White, on August 24th, 1963. They had three children, Lauri Troyer, Lynn (Rodd) Layman and Larry (Savanna) Troyer.
In the early 1960s, Ken left northern Michigan for the thriving city of Flint to begin a management career with JCPenney Company. The company, valuing his strong work ethic and success, transferred Ken, along with Joan and the children, to several Midwestern cities. The Troyers, in choosing stability for their young family, returned to the pleasant small-town life of Ken's childhood in Oscoda County in 1976, making a home in Comins. Ken worked twelve years for AuSable Valley Builders and entered retirement after spending nearly two decades as a local Mr. Fix-It at Fairview Hardware. He served more than thirty years as the Clinton Township Supervisor and was instrumental in rebuilding Comins after the devastating tornado of 1999.
A faithful congregant of Fairview Mennonite Church, Ken was an active member whose commitment to serving others led him to be involved in the missions' outreach of the church, cutting firewood for the those in need, leading and volunteering at the Northern Michigan Relief Sale, and serving on many Mennonite Disaster Relief projects. Ken's servant leadership did not stop at the church doors, however. He was a vital part of the larger Northern Michigan community. He took pride in his town, serving as a board member for the Steiner Museum, building homes and accessibility ramps with Habitat for Humanity, planning field trips for and teaching children how to build bluebird houses as an active member of the Kirtland Warbler Audubon Society, and lovingly serving his neighbors in need each month at the local food bank. An avid outdoorsman, Ken loved hunting and fishing with friends and appreciated time with Joan at their cabin on a small lake near Levering. His love for the outdoors was surpassed only by his love for his family, savoring Sundays at home surrounded by his grand-and great-grandchildren.
Ken is survived by his three children, his grandchildren, Deanna, Joseph, Brook, Katelyn, Tyler, Whitney, and Garrett; and his great-grandchildren Gradie, Duncan, Hattie, Lawson, Levi, and Beckett. He is reunited in Heaven with his beautiful bride, Joanie; his parents; his brothers, Lloyd and Mel Troyer; his sister, Arlene Banks; and his dear friend, Boyd Kauffman.
The family would like to thank the Hospice team at Compassus for the generous and thoughtful care they provided both Ken and Joan, along with the support they gave the family. The family asks that, in lieu of flowers or cards, please donate in Ken's name to: Compassus Hospice Angel Foundation, 3217 W M55, West Branch, MI, 48661. PH (989) 268-7720 Because Ken valued family and friends so very much, his family would appreciate all of Ken's friends and loved ones spending time this Christmas season making memories and loving one another.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, January 20th, 2024 at the Fairview Mennonite Church from 9:00 am 12:00 pm, with a service and luncheon to follow. Arrangements by Lashley Funeral Home, Mio.
Troyer, Loren D.
February 9, 1939 - April 8, 2023
Loren D. Troyer, age 84, of Nappanee, died at 1:12 am, Saturday, April 8, 2023 at Goshen Hospital after an extended illness. He was born February 9, 1939 in Hartville, OH to Elmer J. and Saloma (Hochstetler) Troyer. Mr. Troyer lived most of his life in Nappanee. On December 16, 1961, he married Erma M. Slabaugh in Nappanee.
Mr. Troyer had worked at Holiday Rambler and Monaco in the cabinet department. He retired from Country Wood Products. He had attended North Main Street Mennonite Church and was currently attending First Mennonite Church in Nappanee. Loren enjoyed working, fishing, radio control airplanes and having coffee with friends at Burger King.
Mr. Troyer is survived by his wife, Erma; children, Nelda (Ron) Bedward, Nappanee, Wendall (Shirley) Troyer, Milford, Brad (Elizabeth) Troyer, Elkhart; 5 grandchildren; brothers, Jonas (Betty) Troyer, Ohio, Raymond (Roxanne) Troyer, Ohio; sisters, Miriam (Mose) Gingerich, North Carolina, Margaret (Elton) Miller, Ohio, Betty (Perry) Miller, Ohio; and sister-in-law, Nancy Troyer, Pennsylvania. He was preceded in death by his granddaughter, Shaylee Bedward-Downs and brother, Willis Troyer.
Family and friends may call from 2-4 Thursday, April 13, 2023 followed by Memorial Service beginning at 4:00 pm at First Mennonite Church, Nappanee. Rev. Cami Coffin will officiate.
Memorial contributions may be given to shayleeslight.org, a not-for-profit organization to benefit ovarian cancer..
Troyer, Obed J.
March 18, 1933 - August 18, 2023
Obed J. Troyer, 90, of 7680 Township Road 565, Holmesville, OH passed away at home on Friday, Aug. 18, 2023.
He was born on March 18, 1933 to Joas A. and Mary M. (Yoder) Troyer and married Verna J. Wengerd on Oct. 3, 1957. She preceded him in death on April 23, 2015. He was a member of the Old Order Amish Church and was ordained a Deacon in 1971.
Surviving is his children and spouse, Effie Troyer of the home, Allen Troyer of Fredericksburg, Roy and Ada Troyer of the home, Ervin and Verna Troyer of Holmesville, David and Esta Troyer of Millersburg and Dennis and Ada Troyer of Millersburg; son-in-law, Melvin J. Miller of Holmesville; daughter-in-law, Amanda A. Troyer of Holmesville; 25 grandchildren; 3 step-grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren, a brother, Raymond J. (Nancy) Troyer of Millersburg; sisters, Clara Troyer and Lydia Ann Troyer both of Fredericksburg, Anna Yoder of Millersburg and Fannie (Albert A.) Miller of Fredericksburg and sisters-in-law, Anna Troyer, Betty Troyer and Marcia Troyer.
He was preceded in death by his wife, a daughter, Iva Miller, a son, Reuben Troyer; brothers, William, Reuben and Daniel; sister and brother-in-law, Katie and Melvin J. Yoder; sister, Effie Troyer and brother-in-law, Melvin J. Yoder.
Services will be Monday, Aug. 21st at 9:00 a.m. at the Brian R. Troyer residence, 7650 TR 565, Holmesville with Minister Lester Yoder officiating. Burial will be in Wengerd Cemetery. Friends may call after 2:00 p.m. on Saturday at the Brian Troyer residence. Murray Funeral Home in Fredericksburg is handling arrangements.
The family extends their deepest appreciation to the staff of LifeCare Hospice for their wonderful care and support over the past year.
Troyer, Ora S.
June 3, 1932 - December 31, 2023
Ora S. Troyer, 91, died December 31, 2023, at Waterford Crossing of Goshen, with his family by his side.
He was born June 3, 1932, the sixth child of nine born to Sam and Sarah Troyer. On May 7, 1955, he married Mary Mast. They met as teenagers in their church youth group and spent their 68 years of marriage living in the Goshen area.
Ora is survived by Mary, along with their children, Renee (Brian) Campbell, Cindy (Todd) Lederman, and Eric (Emily Headings) Troyer, and their grandchildren Cole (Emily) Campbell, Joel (Annerose) Lederman, Kenyon (Darcy) Lederman, Sarah (Alex) Roth, Seth and Zoe Troyer, and 14 great-grandchildren. Also surviving is his sister, Edith Herschberger.
Ora’s brothers, Alvin, Elroy, Howard, Floyd, and Sam Jr., and sisters, Ada Steury and Ida Riegsecker, and an infant son Stanwyn Lee Troyer preceded him in death.
Ora graduated from Goshen College in 1960 with a degree in education. After a brief time teaching at Parkside Elementary School, Ora spent most of his working career associated with the family business, Troyer’s Poultry. He went on to work in health insurance. He and Mary enjoyed traveling both in the U.S. and abroad. After retirement, Ora dedicated significant time to volunteer work. He and Mary served for a year in Americus, Georgia, volunteering with Habitat for Humanity. Ora continued to contribute many volunteer hours to Habitat locally and on the Jimmy Carter Blitz builds across the country. He helped with tax preparation for senior citizens, Red Cross blood drives, and many other volunteer opportunities in the community.
Ora was an avid reader, wrote poetry, enjoyed being outdoors, and biked countless miles well into his eighties. He loved music and shared his enjoyment through singing, song leading, and whistling. He treasured spending time with all of his family and joyfully welcomed each new grandchild and greatgrandchild. He valued social connections and always took time to greet and check in with others throughout the community. He and Mary were very active in the church fellowships of East Goshen, Berkey Avenue, and College Mennonite of Goshen.
Visitation will be held on Friday, January 12, 2024, from 5:00-8:00 pm at College Mennonite Church as well as on Saturday, January 13, 2024, at 10:00 am, followed by an 11:00 am memorial service at the church.
Memorials may be made to the Troyer International Student Scholarship Fund at Goshen College.
Urban, Eian Willum
February 15, 2003 - January 20, 2023
Eian Willum Urban, 19, of Atwood, Illinois passed away on Friday, January 20, 2023 in Atwood, Illinois.
Memorial services will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Saturday, February 11, 2023 at the North Vine Mennonite Church, 312 North Vine Street in Arthur, Illinois. Pastor Brian Petersheim will officiate. The Edwards Funeral Home is assisting with arrangements.
Eian was born on February 15, 2003 in Berwyn, Illinois. He is a son of Anna Marie Urban and Sean Wallace.
He is survived by his mother and father.
He is preceded in death by his grandparents, Dianne and Arthur Urban and an uncle A.J. Urban.
Eian had attended North Vine Mennonite Church in Arthur, IL.
He loved music and he was always willing to help anyone in need and do so with an open heart. He also adored cooking and was always using his prolific imagination to create new delicious recipes.
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Local Teen Found Dead January 20 in Atwood
The Village of Atwood has had two tragedies of young people recently, Karen Fennessy on December 23, 2022 and Eian Urban on January 20, 2023. The loss of these residents, one 20 years old and one 19, is upsetting to everyone. Whether you knew them or not, it is difficult to understand. People continue to think that nothing ever happens in a small town. This proves there is no small town USA anymore. Bad things happen, just not as often as a larger town. According to Atwood Police Chief Rob Bross, on Friday morning, January 20, the body of Eian Urban, 19, was found lying in the 100 block of West Central by the backdoor of a former business. A passerby saw the body and called 911. There were no obvious signs of trauma. Final cause of death depends on the toxicology report, which will take between 30-45 days. Rumors are false that another dead person was found at the cemetery, or the body was found by a youth on their way to school. Eian’s mother is Anna Urban of Michigan. When in Atwood, he lived with his grandfather Art Urban who passed away on December 17, 2020. This incident is being investigated by the Atwood Police Department and Piatt County Coroner’s Office. Additional information will be forthcoming as it is available.
Wednesday, January 25, 2023 - Arthur Graphic-Clarion, Page 9.
By DORIS ELMORE Staff Writer