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.
2024
S2
Snavely, Marie Lois
December 17, 1936 - August 28, 2024
Marie Lois Snavely died on August 28, 2024 at Bridgewater Retirement Community in Bridgewater, Virginia. She was 87 years old. She was born in Lancaster, Pennsylvania on December 17, 1936 to parents Abram and Anna Denlinger Snavely. She graduated from Lancaster Mennonite High School in 1955. Following one year of college at Eastern Mennonite University, she earned a nursing degree from Lancaster General Hospital School of Nursing in 1961.
Marie spent years working as a nurse in Kansas working at Prairie View Hospital and St. Francis Hospital. She finished her career with 25 years at Hershey Medical Center in Hershey, Pennsylvania. In 2016, she moved to Harrisonburg, VA. She has been a resident of Bridgewater Retirement Community since 2020.
Marie's creative and artistic gifts were evident in her paintings, pottery, photography and sea glass creations. She was a lover of the natural world and was most at home "in the woods" or "by the sea" where she spent as much time as she could. She vacationed on Monhegan Island (off of the coast of Maine) for 48 years. The community of Monhegan became her second home, where she forged lasting and meaningful friendships, and relished collecting sea glass.
Marie was a member of Blossom Hill Mennonite Church, where she was an "artist in residence" before her move to Virginia. She designed and made the rose window at the front of the sanctuary, created floral and other arrangements for visual representation of worship themes, and held classes for middle school aged children to create their own sea glass designs.
A memorial service will be held at Blossom Hill Mennonite Church, 333 Delp Rd., Lancaster, PA, on Sunday, October 6 at 1:30 PM. Memorial gifts may be given to Blossom Hill Mennonite Church.
Snyder, Wilson W.
June 22, 1985 - January 28, 2024
Wilson W. Snyder, 38, of Denver, passed away on Sunday, January 28, 2024, at WellSpan Ephrata Community Hospital. He was born in Hershey to Glenn M. and Janice Z. (Weaver) Snyder.
Wilson attended Martindale Mennonite Church (Weaverland Conference).
In addition to his parents, Wilson is survived by two brothers, Lamar, husband of Joanne (Burkholder) Snyder of Mohnton, Nevin Snyder of Denver; a sister, Darla, wife of Joshua Martin of Ephrata. He was preceded in death by brother, Curvin W. Snyder.
A viewing will be held on Thursday, February 1, 2024, from 5 to 8 PM, at Farm Crest Chapel at Fairmount Homes, 1100 Farm Crest Drive, Ephrata. Funeral services will be held on Friday, February 2, 2024, at 9 AM, at the Chapel, with further services at 9:30 AM, from Martindale (Frame) Mennonite Church, 905 Martindale Road, Martindale, with Bishop Amos Martin officiating. Interment will take place in the adjoining church cemetery.
Kindly omit flowers.
Arrangements by Stradling Funeral Homes, Inc., Akron/Ephrata.
Sommers, Julia Ann Leedy
August 29, 1935 - March 28, 2024
Julia Ann Leedy Sommers, age 88, of Berlin, Ohio passed away March 28, 2024 at Sarasota Memorial Hospital, Sarasota, Florida following a short illness.
Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Friday, April 5th at Mennonite Christian Assembly, Fredericksburg, Ohio with Pastor John Risner officiating. Burial will take place at the church cemetery. Friends may call from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday at MCA and also one hour prior to the service on Friday at the church.
Julia was born August 29, 1935 in Shreve, Ohio and was the daughter of William Oakley "Amos" and Osea Pearl (Graven) Leedy. She married Atlee Lewis Sommers and he survives.
Julia was a member of Mennonite Christian Assembly.
Surviving in addition to her husband Atlee are three children; Tina Rene Robbins, Trent Leedy Sommers and Teresea Kay Morris: seven grandchildren: 18 great-grandchildren: and a brother, Marvin Dean (wife, Elizabeth) Leedy.
She was preceded in death by her parents: brothers; Ross Graven Leedy and William David Leedy: and son in law, David Earl Robbins.
Stauffer, Grace F. Brubaker
January 21, 1922 - September 11, 2024
Grace F. Stauffer, 102, formerly of East Petersburg, went home to be with the Lord on Wednesday, September 11, 2024 at Landis Homes. Born in Rapho Township, she was the daughter of the late Elam Robert and Margaret Floyd Brubaker. She was the loving wife of the late Pastor Clarence S. Stauffer who died in 2015. A homemaker and in her earlier years, Grace also worked for John F. Cope Company processing asparagus and sweet corn and grew rhubarb for sale. Grace and Clarence enjoyed trips thru most US states, to Central and South America, to Europe, Middle East, and Australia. Grace loved to care for plants, especially large ferns. She grew a large vegetable garden and loved to spend time with her family. Grace was an avid newspaper reader and self-educated on living a healthy lifestyle. She was a member of the former Kauffman's Mennonite Church, Manheim where she taught Sunday school and Bible school. Grace also volunteered at the Mount Joy Gift and Thrift shop.
Surviving is a daughter, Nancy B. wife of Ivan Wenger of Lititz, a son, David B. husband of Barbara (Rutt) Stauffer of Mount Joy, 8 grandchildren, 16 great grandchildren and two brothers, James F. and Luke F. Brubaker both of Mount Joy. She was preceded in death by a daughter, Joyce B. Enck, son-in-law, Irvin C. Enck and two sisters, Dorothy Graybill-Hershey and Lois Peters.
Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Grace's Funeral Service at Crossings Community Church (formerly Erismans), 8 South Erisman Road, Manheim on Saturday, September 21, 2024 at 11:00 AM. There will be a viewing at the church on Saturday morning from 10:00 AM until the time of service. Interment in Erisman Mennonite Cemetery immediately following the service, followed by a luncheon at the church. In lieu of flowers, those desiring may send contributions in Grace's memory to Landis Homes Caring Fund, Development Office, 1001 East Oregon Road, Lititz, PA 17543.
Stauffer, James Kolb
January 8, 1930 - November 13, 2024
James Kolb Stauffer, 94, longtime resident of Harrisonburg, passed away on Wednesday, November 13, 2024 at Crestwood at Virginia Mennonite Retirement Community (VMRC). Rev. Stauffer was born on January 8, 1930 and was a son of the late John Longacre (J.L.) and Lydia Kolb Stauffer.
Before finding his career in ministry, James was a skilled carpenter, and dry wall finisher. He was ordained in 1953 and served as pastor/co-pastor throughout his lifetime in churches in Ohio, Saigon Vietnam, Virginia, North Carolina, and Hawaii. He received his Masters in Divinity from Elkhart Anabaptist Mennonite Seminary. He and his family served with Eastern Mennonite Missions as a minister and missionary to Vietnam from 1957 to 1975, the Philippines from 1977 to 1979, and Hawaii from 1989 to 1995. After retirement, he served as the pastor of Weavers Mennonite Church, Harrisonburg, from 1980-1986. He was a member of Park View Mennonite Church.
In June 1954, he married Arlene Krupp Stauffer who preceded him in death on October 20, 1985. On August 30, 1987, he married Ruth LaVerne Yoder Stauffer who survives.
Also surviving are his children, John Lowell Stauffer and spouse Mary Beth of Lexington, NC, Rose Stauffer and spouse Leslie Kille of Littleton, CO, Carl Stauffer and spouse Carolyn of Harrisonburg; grandchildren, Michael Scott Stauffer, Christy Stauffer, Chelsea Arlene Esaki, Christopher Stauffer, E. Grace Lamay; and one great-grandchild, Teju Lamay.
In addition to his parents and first wife, Mr. Stauffer was preceded in death by his siblings, Ruth Alger and husband Robert, Lois Messner and husband Robert, J. Mark Stauffer and wife Eva.
James Stauffer was born in Harrisonburg and raised in the Mennonite community of Eastern Mennonite college. He enjoyed riding his motorcycle, playing tennis, singing, and tinkering in his workshop. He served as a Vietnamese language translator in courts and hospitals. He was an expert handyman, carpenter, and mechanic, and was a Do It Yourselfer long before that had a popular meaning. He and his wife enjoyed visiting, volunteering, helping others, and practicing acts of generosity.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Mennonite Disaster Service. Gifts in his memory can be made at mds.org/donate. Check the “make this gift in memory of someone” box and enter James K. Stauffer. Please make checks make payable to MDS with “James Stauffer Memorial” on the memo line and mailed to: Mennonite Disaster Service, 583 Airport Rd, Lititz, PA 17543
A memorial service date is yet to be determined. Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.mcmullenfh.com. McMullen Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Stauffer, Nora N. Weaver Horst
September 23rd, 1927 - September 1st, 2024
Nora passed away to Heaven peacefully on Sunday September 1, 2024, at Lincoln Christian Home Ephrata, PA., at the age of 96 years and 343 days. She was born on September 23, 1927 in Bareville, PA. to Martin and Elizabeth Nolt Weaver.
She is survived by her children; Anita (Kevin Murphy) Sarasota, Florida, Elton (Sherlyn Weber) Leola, PA., I. Ray (Doris Burkhart) New Holland, PA., brothers Frank and Edward Weaver (Arlene Sauder), Leon and Clara (Burkholder) Martin. Nora was predeceased by sisters Edna and Verna, brothers Howard, Ervin, and Ivan, and a great-granddaughter, Macie Haller. Nora has 8 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren.
Nora was married to Ivan B. Horst from 1954 until his death in 1984. She was married to Willard Stauffer 1989, until his death in 2018. Willards children, Galen, Larry, Pheobe, John, and Leon deceased, 23 grandchildren and 46 great-grandchildren survive.
Nora was a member of Groffdale Mennonite Brick Church. She participated in teaching Bible School for many years with her lifelong friend Mary High and was active in the sewing circle. She also attended Green Terrace Mennonite Church with Willard.
Nora was a very pleasant, friendly, comical person, and enjoyed playing dominoes, Bible word search and Chase the Rat marble game. She was also fond of steam engines, and horses at a distance. Her favorite foods were French fries, pork and sauerkraut, well done hot dogs, ground cherry pie and dandelion. Over the years she worked at The Blue Shutter Restaurant, New Holland and many years at Oregon Dairy Restaurant, Lititz, serving customers well into her 80's. She also loved her second home, Sarasota, Florida, traveling there almost annually, since 1949.
The family wishes to extend heartfelt thanks to Anabaptist Care Link, Hospice of Lancaster and the staff and management at Lincoln Christian Home. Their excellent and compassionate care of Nora during her stay was exemplary.
A viewing will be held on Friday, September 6, 2024, from 6 to 8 PM, at Groffdale Mennonite Church (Brick), 168 N Groffdale Rd., Leola. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, September 7, 2024, at 1 PM, at the church, with Pastor Tom Eshleman and Preacher Wilmer Hurst officiating. Interment will take place in the adjoining church cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made in Nora's name to Mennonite Central Committee, 21 S. 12th St., Akron, PA 17501, or Mennonite Disaster Service, 583 Airport Rd., Lititz, PA 17543.
Arrangements by Stradling Funeral Homes, Inc., Akron/Ephrata.
Stauffer, Violet Mae Musser
April 29, 1935 - August 11, 2024
Violet Mae (Musser) Stauffer, 89, a lifelong resident of Terre Hill, passed away on August 11, 2024 at Zerbe Retirement Community. Born in Terre Hill, she was the daughter of the late Carl K. and Sarah Dorothy (Brown) Musser. She was the wife of the late John H. Stauffer, with whom she shared 51 years of marriage until the time of his passing in 2007.
Violet was a graduate of Terre Hill High School, class of 1953 and was a homemaker. She was a member of Mt. Culmen EC Church. She had volunteered for Ephrata Area Rehab Services for many years and for Meals on Wheels for 40 years. She enjoyed listening to music, playing the piano, reading and spending time with her family.
She is survived by her children, John David Stauffer of Stevens and Laura Susan wife of Ken High of Stevens, grandsons, Philip J. High and Patrick S. husband of Meghan High, great-grandchildren, Christopher and Rylee, brother-in-law, William "Butch" Hoshauer and sister-in-law, Betty Musser and nieces and nephews.
In addition to her husband and parents, she was preceded in death by a teen age daughter, Jane Marie Stauffer and an infant son, sisters, Norma Hoshauer and Helen Davidson and brother, Carl Musser.
A private interment will be held in Terre Hill Cemetery.
The family would like to thank Hospice and Community Care and Zerbe's Retirement Community for their help and support. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hospice and Community Care the Essa Flory Center, 685 Good Drive, Lancaster, PA 17604 or to Zerbe Retirement Community, 2499 Zerbe Road, Narvon, PA 17555.
C. Stanley Eckenroth Home for Funerals in Terre Hill is entrusted with the funeral arrangements.
Steiner, Donald D.
June 5, 1930 - July 24, 2024
Donald D. Steiner, age 94, of Orrville, died Wednesday, July 24, 2024, at Shady Lawn Health Care Community in Dalton, following a period of declining health.
Donald was born on June 5, 1930, in Dalton, Ohio, to the late Frank and Edith (Gregory) Steiner and graduated from Dalton High School in 1948. He married Norma Jean Conrad on December 3, 1950, in Smithville. Norma Jean survives and they enjoyed 73 years of marriage.
He worked for Smith Dairy for 43 years where he started out as a home retail driver and worked all the way up to V.P. of Sales and retired in 1991.
Donald enjoyed officiating basketball, football, wrestling, track & field, and softball. He was a member of Oak Grove Mennonite Church, Orrville Board of Education, Orrville/Dalton YMCA Board, and Orrville Little League Board. He enjoyed teaching Sunday school, was a MYF (Mennonite Youth Fellowship) sponsor, after retirement bought a motor home and he and Norma traveled all over the United States, Canada, and Alaska. He volunteered with Habitat for Humanity in Florida, New Mexico, and Puerto Rico and was involved with SOOP (Service Opportunities for Older People).
In addition to Norma, Donald is survived by three sons, Steve (Debbie) Steiner of Orrville, Jim (Amy) Steiner of Denton, NC, and Tom (Allison) Steiner of Simpsonville, SC; daughter, Nancy (Craig) Winey of Orrville; nine grandchildren, Bethany Steiner-Mullins, Eric Steiner, Travis Steiner, Kirk Steiner, Aaron Winey, Kara Musser, Graylyn Jennings, Marc Steiner, and David Steiner; 18 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by granddaughter, Melissa (Winey) Esh; siblings, Franklin and Richard Steiner, Dorothy Hershberger, Marilyn Kauffman, Marjorie Hackett, and Janet Lucille Oswald.
Prior to the service, friends may call on Monday, July 29, 2024, at Oak Grove Mennonite Church, 7843 Smucker Road, Smithville, from 9:30 am to 11:00 am.
Services will be held at 11:00 am on Monday, at Oak Grove Mennonite Church, with Pastors Mel Hathaway, and Terry Shue officiating. Burial will take place at the Oak Grove Mennonite Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to Mennonite Central Committee 21 South 12th St P.O. Box 500, Akron, PA 17501-0500 https://mcc.org/.
Auble Funeral Home in Orrville is handling the arrangements. Online registry and expressions of condolence may be made at www.aublefuneralhome.com.
Stewart, Barbara Jean Fenton
February 5, 1956 - May 4, 2024
Barbara Jean Stewart, age 68, of Tedrow, [OH] passed away Saturday morning, May 4, 2024 at Toledo Hospital. Prior to her retirement in 2008 she had worked for the former Johnson Controls in Wauseon. Before that, she was the Resident Director of the former Mennoheim Respite Care in Goshen, Indiana.
Barbara was born in Wauseon on February 5, 1956, the daughter of Raymond and Evelyn (Merillat) Fenton. On June 22, 1991, she married Tom Stewart, who survives. Tom and Barbara both came from families where they were each the third of eight children, and both had five brothers and two sisters. She was a member of the Tedrow Mennonite Church. She was also the Treasurer for the Wauseon FISH Pantry, and loved going to Little Eden Camp where she enjoyed fishing. She also enjoyed gardening, doing crossword puzzles, and she adored her nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews.
Surviving, besides her husband, Tom, is a step-son, Jonathan (Micki) Stewart of Lemoyne, Ohio; step-daughter, Jessica (Ben) Anaya of Cape May Courthouse, NJ; step-grandchildren, Brendyn and Alexa; step-great-grandchildren, Jaxson and Thomas. She is also survived by siblings, Robert Fenton of Delta, Max Fenton of Wauseon, Sandra Lemley of Delta, Thomas Fenton of Wauseon, David (Pam) Fenton of Wauseon, Lori (Larry) Rice of Wauseon, Bill Fenton of Wauseon; and beloved nieces and nephews, Amy, Mark, Bradley, Shannon, Leah, Koelton, William, Johnny, David and Courtney, and great-nieces and nephews, Emmy, Madison, Cameron, Hunter, Alex,Emma, Peyton, Eva, and Oakley. She was preceded in death by both parents and step-grandson, Tyler James.
Visitation for Barbara will be held from 2:00 P.M. until 7:00 P.M. on Friday, May 10, 2024, in the Fellowship Hall of the Tedrow Mennonite Church. The funeral service will be held at 11:00 A.M. Saturday, May 11, 2024, also at the church, with Pastor Doug King, officiating. The family requests that memorial contributions be given to the Wauseon FISH Pantry or Little Eden Camp. Online condolences may be offered to the family at www.grisierfh.com. Edgar-Grisier Funeral Home in Wauseon has been entrusted with arrangements.
Stoltzfus, Allen Jay
November 30, 1941 - June 27, 2024
Allen Jay Stoltzfus, 82, of LaGrange, (district: 41-2, formerly of 61-2), died at 8:15 am on Thursday, June 27, [2024] at Parkview LaGrange Hospital. He was born on November 30, 1941, in Milford, to Jacob and Alma (Yoder) Stoltzfus. On October 22, 1964, in Middlebury, he married Katie Riegsecker, she survives.
Survivors in addition to his wife are three sons, Michael (Sharon) Stoltzfus, Mark (Sueanna) Stoltzfus both of Middlebury, Merl (Ruby) Stoltzfus of Shipshewana; two daughters, Margaret (Noah) Bontrager of LaGrange, Maribeth (Will) Yoder of Shipshewana; 18 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren; sister, Carol (Rudy) Hochstetler of Milford.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister and brother-in-law, Erma (M. Jay) Hochstetler.
Allen was a retired farmer and woodworker. He was a member of the Old Order Amish Church.
Visitation will be after 2:00 pm on Friday, June 28 and all-day Saturday, June 29 at the Michael Stoltzfus residence, 11851 CR 20, Middlebury. Funeral services will be at 9:30 am on Sunday, June 30 at the same residence. Services will be conducted by Bishop Robert Mullet and the home ministers. Burial will be in Miller 8 Square Cemetery, Goshen. Miller-Stewart Funeral Home, Middlebury, is assisting the family with arrangements.
Stoltzfus, Mast
March 28, 1928 - June 22, 2024
Mast Stoltzfus, age 96 of Cochranville, passed away on Saturday, June 22, 2024 at his home. He was the husband of Anna Z. Zook Stoltzfus for 62 years before her passing on July 9, 2022. Born in Elverson, he was the son of the late David & Sadie Mast Stoltzfus.
Mast was a member of Maple Grove Mennonite Church. He was a devoted dairy farmer and truck driver for many years. He volunteered for the Pax Service and traveled for 3 years helping to rebuild fallen structures after WWII. He loved lending a helping hand in many capacities. He was a member of the Buck Run Hunting camp, and he loved spending time at his mountain cabin. Mast had a great respect for animals which is something he passed down to his children and grandchildren.
Surviving are 2 children: Dwight L., husband of Peggy Hurley Stoltzfus of Christiana, Marilyn K., wife of A. Duane Hershey of Cochranville, 7 grandchildren, 7 great-grandchildren, and 2 sisters: Lois Petersheim of Morgantown, and Becci Leatherman of Lancaster.
He was preceded in death by 3 brothers, Milo, Omar, and his twin brother Stephen, and 5 sisters, Sarah Fisher, Viola Lapp, Mary Grubb, Edna Ebersole, and Esther Wilson.
A funeral service will take place at Maple Grove Mennonite Church, 549 Swan Road, Atglen, on Wednesday, June 26th at 11 a.m. with a viewing time from 9:30 a.m. until the time of service. Pastor Mike Clemmer will be officiating. Interment will be in the adjoining church cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Mast's honor to Powered to Move at poweredtomove.org or mailed to P.O. Box 1813, Allen, TX 75013.
Stoltzfus, Malinda Z. Stoltzfus
October 5, 1935 - July 14, 2024
Malinda Z. Stoltzfus, 88, of Honey Brook, PA, got into the chariot as it swung low on July 14, 2024. Born on October 5, 1935, she was the daughter of the late David E. and Fannie (Zook) Stoltzfus. For 31 years Malinda was the wife of Allen Lee Stoltzfus, who passed in 1986.
Malinda enjoyed an active life on the dairy farm along with her husband. The farm provided a place of hosting Fresh Air children, international guests, and students doing Mennonite farm stays. Her employment included sales positions at Zook's Molasses and at Booth's Corner market stand. She volunteered at Brandywine Hospital, Steeple to People Thrift Store, and numerous sewing circles. One of her passions was creating beautiful quilt tops and clothing for the sewing circle. She also enjoyed studying the Bible, singing hymns, playing Scrabble, and spending time with her grandchildren. She set an example of loving care, courage, and perseverance during the years of her son's and husband's cancer journeys. She was faithful in her walk with the Lord and supportive of her local church, Millwood Mennonite. The past four years she struggled with increasing dementia and received the home care of her children at the family farm.
Malinda left a godly legacy for her children, 20 grandchildren, and 23 great grandchildren. She is survived by four children: Miriam (Luke) Beiler of Los Angeles, Aden (Wilma) Stoltzfus of Honey Brook, Nathan (Patricia) Stoltzfus of Honey Brook, Frieda Graber of Paradise, and by a brother, Omar Stoltzfus, and sister, Elizabeth Alspaugh. Besides her husband, she was preceded in death by her son Edwin, two brothers, and one sister.
A funeral service will take place from Millwood Mennonite, 447 Amish Road, Gap, PA, on Wednesday, July 17 at 11 a.m. Pastor Keith Beiler will be officiating. There will be a viewing time on Tuesday evening from 5 to 8 p.m. Interment will be in the Pequea Amish Mennonite Cemetery, 115 Blank Road, Narvon, PA
Stoltzfus, Miriam Rose
November 2, 2024 - November 4, 2024
Miriam Rose Stoltzfus, 2-day old infant daughter of Gideon F. and Lydia Ann (Fisher) Stoltzfus of 5862 Mast Rd., Narvon died on Monday, Nov. 4, 2024 at Hershey Medical Center.
Besides her parents, she is survived by: ten siblings, Daniel, Allen Mark, Rebekah Anne, Emanuel Wayne, Gideon, Jr., Ruthi Anna, Caleb Michael, Barbi Etta, Mary Jane and Susan Louise Stoltzfus, all at home; grandparents, Norman and Rebecca Stoltzfus, Narvon, & Daniel and Martha Fisher, East Earl.
Funeral: 9 AM, Wednesday, Nov. 6, 2024 from the late home. Visitation: 1 PM5 PM, Tuesday at the late home. Interment: Red Hill Cemetery. Furman's-Leola
Strite, Clair
September 22, 1937 - January 23, 2024
Clair Strite, 86, of Townville passed away on January 23, 2024 in his home with his family by his side.
Born in Leitersburg, MD on September 22, 1937 he was the son of the late Abram J. and Emma (Eberly) Strite.
On April 12, 1958, he married the former Naomi Ruth Myers who survives.
Clair was a hard working dairy farmer who worked on the family farm for many years in Wisconsin. After retiring, he and his wife moved to the Townville area to be closer to other family members.
He had a very strong faith and was a member of the Shalom Mennonite Church in Guys Mills. He enjoyed hunting and playing the harmonica. He was known to stop whatever he was doing and watch the planes fly overhead. He was very much a family man who enjoyed his grandchildren and working alongside his wife.
Along with his wife, Naomi of Townville are his daughters, Brenda Yoder and her husband, Les of Centerville, MI, Linda Sommers of Sarasota, FL, Flora Strite of Guys Mills, Twila Hege and her husband, Sam, of Little Fork, MN, Amelia Strite of Fridley, MN; his 15 grandchildren and his 30 great-grandchildren; his brother Allen Strite of Clear Spring, MD; and his sisters Velma Horst and her husband, Glenn, of Winchester, VA and Alta Bussard Monrovia, MD.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his infant son, Jed; and his brothers Wayne, Nelson, Garnet and Lawrence Strite.
Friends and family are welcome to visit at the Shalom Mennonite Church, 10789 Beuchat Rd, Guys Mills, Pennsylvania, on Saturday, January 27, 2024 from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm and 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm. Funeral services for Clair will be at the church on Sunday, January 28, 2024 at 10:00 am with Head Pastor Tim Schlabach, officiating.
Clair will be laid to rest at the Shalom Mennonite Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made in Clair's name to the Christian Aid Ministries at https://christianaidministries.org, PO Box 360, Berlin, OH 44610.
Funeral arrangements are under the care of the Ryan M. Warren Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc., 33353 North Main Street, Townville, Pennsylvania 16360.
Stutzman, Anna J. Schrock
July 26, 1936 - June 5, 2024
Anna J. Stutzman 87, Arcola, Illinois passed away at 12:20 PM on Wednesday, June 5, 2024, at her residence.
Funeral services will be held at 9:00 AM on Saturday, June 8, 2024, at the family residence, 280 N CR 275 E, Arcola, Illinois. Bishop Raymond S. Miller will officiate. Burial will be in the Miller Cemetery in rural Arcola, Illinois. Visitation will be held any time after 2:00 PM on Thursday, June 6, 2024, and any time after 10:00 AM on Friday, June 7, 2024, at the family residence. The Edwards Funeral Home is assisting with arrangements.
Anna was born on July 26, 1936, in Arcola, Illinois. She was a daughter of Joel N. and Sovilla (Miller) Schrock. She married John J. Stutzman on April 10, 1958 in Arthur, Illinois. He passed away on October 28, 2022. They lived in Holy Matrimony for 64 years.
She is survived by three children: Sovilla Arlene Miller and her husband Homer of Arthur IL, Edward Stutzman and his wife Alma Fern (Herschberger) of Arthur IL and Paul Eugene Stutzman and his wife Lillian Sue (Miller) of Arcola IL; 21 grandchildren, 70 great grandchildren; siblings, Katie Beachy, Ervin J. Schrock, and Verna J. Kaufman and her husband Lewis, and a sister-in-law, Mary Ellen Schrock.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, one son, Elva Leon Stutzman, two stillborn daughters, Rosella and Lela, one grandson, Darrin Stutzman, two great granddaughters, Emily and Serena, and two brothers, Omer Schrock and his wife Lizzie and Edward J. Schrock, Brother-in-law, Levi Beachy and sister-in-law, Sarah (Hostetler) Schrock.
Anna was a member of the Old Order Amish Faith.
Stutzman, Barbara J. Yoder
July 7, 1928 - October 9, 2024
Barbara J. Stutzman, age 96, passed from this life on October 9, 2024, at her rural Leon, Iowa home. She and her twin sister, Bertha, were born to John E. and Edna Mae (Yoder) Yoder on July 7, 1928, in Thomas, Oklahoma.
Barbara grew up and attended Deer Creek School at Thomas, Oklahoma. On July 4, 1948, she was united in marriage to Amos L. Stutzman. They made their home at Thomas until 1965, when they moved to Leon, Iowa, where Amos raised beef cattle and Barbara had some milk cows. They were blessed with four children, Joni, Floyd, Mary, and Glenda. In 1979, they moved to Decatur, Iowa where Barbara worked as a cook at the Decatur School.
On October 28, 1982, the family got the horrible news that Amos had been killed in a motor vehicle accident. On August 1, 2015, Barbara moved to her “granny house” in son, Floyd and Rose’s yard.
Barbara was an excellent cook and loved hosting large family dinners. She also was an avid quilter and sold many of her works. She loved playing with the grandchildren and in earlier times enjoyed miniature golf, croquet, dominos, and fishing. She was baptized in her youth and was a faithful member of Salem Mennonite Church.
Preceding her in death were her parents; husband, Amos Stutzman; son-in-law, Davy Yoder; siblings and spouses, Sylvia and John Yutzy, Bertha Shrock, Lydia and Henry Bontrager, and David Yoder; and brothers-in-law, Gordon Hershberger and Jonas Kinsinger. Survivors include her children, Joni and Ruby Stutzman of Kalona, Iowa, Floyd Ray and Rose Stutzman of Leon, Mary and Greg Snitker of Decorah, Iowa, and Glenda Yoder of Leon; 16 grandchildren and their spouses, Elaine & Gene Wengerd, Amy & Marlin Coblentz, Leon & Wanda Stutzman, Elwyn & Rhonda Stutzman, Adrian & Jen Stutzman, Lowell & Danielle Stutzman, Kevin & Heidi Stutzman, Karlin & Megan Stutzman, Gabriel & Holly Stutzman, Jeremy & Janine Stutzman, Brian & Loretta Stutzman, Kaylene & Mark Marner, LaRhea & Wendal Yoder, Daryn & Janice Yoder, Erica & Nathan Allen, and Kevin & Jayme Yoder; 56 great grandchildren; siblings, Toby and Delores Yoder of Paris, Texas and Dorothy Kinsinger of Kalona; brother-in-law, Feltie Shrock of Sarcoxie, Missouri; sister-in-law, Mary Yoder Hershberger of Kalona; nieces and nephews; and other relatives and friends.
Funeral services will be held at the Salem Mennonite Church east of Leon, Iowa at 10 a.m. Sunday, October 13, 2024, with burial to follow in the Salem Mennonite Cemetery. Visitation will be at the Church on Saturday, 2 - 4 and 6 - 8 p.m.
Memorials may be given to EveryStep Hospice in Mt. Ayr, Iowa.
Stutzman, David A.
November 21, 1946 - October 3, 2024
David A. Stutzman, age 77, formerly of Holmes County, Ohio went home to be with the Lord peacefully on Thursday, October 3rd, 2024 at Country Club Rehab of Dover.
Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Thursday, October 10th at Berlin Christian Fellowship with Pastor Brad Olsen officiating. Burial will take place at the Schrock Family Cemetery at Berlin Christian Fellowship. Friends may call from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at BCF. Those wishing to share a memory or make online condolences may do so by visiting www.alexanderfhinc.com.
David was born November 21, 1946 in Millersburg, Ohio and was the son of Andrew D. and Esther (Hostetler) Stutzman. On August 26, 1967 he married Sara Mae Miller and she survives.
David was a builder and pastor for many years. He was owner and operator of Stutzman Construction which was a business he started in his early twenties. His heart then led him into ministry, pastoring at Berlin Christian Fellowship for over 30 years. He loved people, visiting with them and counseling them and enjoyed spending time with his family.
Surviving in addition to his wife, Sara Mae are two sons: Michael David (Karen) Stutzman of Dover and Jeffery Paul (Rebekah) Stutzman of Dalton; eight grandchildren: Mykaela, Jagger, Tyler, Calista, Caiden, Sophie, Amelia, and Lincoln; siblings: Ruth (David) Mast of Zanesville, Paul A. Stutzman of Millersburg, Philip (Elsie) Stutzman of Sugarcreek, and Naomi (Fred) Gingerich of North Carolina; and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; a son, Kenneth Ray; and a sister-in-law, Ella Stutzman.
Stutzman, Emma Carolyn Smucker
April 24, 1944 - February 13, 2024
Emma Stutzman, 79, formerly of Orrville, Ohio, died Tuesday, February 13, 2024 at her home in Harrisonburg, VA, after a six-month journey with pancreatic cancer.
She was born Emma Carolyn Smucker on April 24, 1944, in Wooster, Ohio, to John Mervin and Icie May (Wenger) Smucker. After graduating from the inaugural class of Central Christian High School in Kidron, Ohio in 1962, she attended Hesston College, Kansas for one year, then graduated from The University of Kansas Practical Nursing School in 1964. She later obtained her BS in Social Work from The University of Akron in 2002. Most of her career was spent as a geriatric nurse in Ohio.
Emma was married to Ervin Stutzman, the father of her children, from 1964-1997. She married Carl W. Berndt Jr. on October 3, 2005; he died October 12, 2012. She married Ronald Piper on June 29, 2019.
After retirement, Emma was a volunteer for Hospice and Palliative Care of Wayne County, Ohio. She spent several summers in Harlan, Kentucky with SWAP (Sharing with Appalachian People). She loved both thrifting and working at MCC Connections in Ohio and Gift & Thrift in Harrisonburg. She was a member of Zion Mennonite Church and an active participant in Mennonite Women, along with sewing groups at Lindale Mennonite and Harrisonburg Mennonite.
Emma was known for her laughter and her quirky sense of humor. She loved people and was always sending cards or calling to check on friends. She enjoyed crocheting and fine-stitch quilting, and many families were blessed with her afghans and baby blankets. She could also be counted on to purchase items from thrift stores that no one else would ever buy and turn them into gifts (not always appreciated) for her children and grandchildren. One never knew what to expect when opening a present from Grandma Emma!
Emma is survived by her husband Ronald; daughter Sharon Stutzman (Orrville, OH), son Tim (Laura) Stutzman of Harrisonburg; grandchildren Lydia (Riley) Hall, Abe (Rachel) Hartzler, Magdalena Hartzler, Lleyton Stutzman and Langdon Stutzman; great-grandchildren Gideon and Emma Hall and Sophia Hartzler; Ron’s children Jennifer Piper, Michael (Sarah) Piper and grandchildren Jonathan and Kate Piper; brothers Stanley (Marlene) Smucker and Ralph (Lila) Smucker and sisters-in-law Donna Smucker and Geneva Smucker. She was predeceased by brothers John R. Smucker and David H. Smucker, son-in-law Michael D. Hartzler, and granddaughter Caroline Hartzler.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, February 24 at 11:00 at Zion Mennonite Church, Broadway, VA with Sarah Piper officiating. Interment will be at Zion Mennonite Columbarium. A zoom link to the service will be available at www.zmcva.org.
McMullen Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Stutzman, Katie E. Miller
November 19, 1935 - March 4, 2024
Katie E. Stutzman, 88, of Goshen, (district: 73), died at 2:22 pm, on Monday, March 4, [2024]at her residence. She was born on November 19, 1935, in Goshen, to Eli R. and Lovina (Burkholder) Miller. On January 28, 1954, in Goshen, she married Albert L. Stutzman, he died May 4, 2016.
Surviving are two daughters, Orpha (Glen) Miller, Sara Justice both of Goshen; three sons, Eli (Elsie) Stutzman, Levi (Debbie) Stutzman, Albert Jr. (Marlene) Stutzman all of Goshen; 17 grandchildren, 59 great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her husband; parents; two grandsons, Lynn Jay Miller, Alan Gene Miller; siblings Elmer Miller, an infant brother, Emma Miller, John Miller, Harvey Miller, Orpha Miller, Ida Richards, Lydia Mae Miller, Edna Miller, and Howard Miller.
Katie was a homemaker and a member of the Old Order Amish Church. She worked as a pie maker at the Village Inn Restaurant for nine years.
Visitation will be after 2:00 pm on Tuesday, March 5 and all-day Wednesday, March 6 at the family residence, 14693 CR 34, Goshen. Funeral services will be at 9:30 am on Thursday, March 7 also at the family residence. Services will be conducted by Bishop Simon Schmucker and the home ministers. Burial will be in Miller 8 Square Cemetery, Goshen.
Stutzman, Lyle L.
April 27, 1968 - September 22, 2024
Lyle L. Stutzman, 56, died unexpectedly at Goshen Hospital, Sunday, September 22, 2024.
He was born April 27, 1968 in Goshen to Elmer and Mary (Mullet) Stutzman.
On July 22, 1995 he married Shawna Sherman.
She survives along with his parents and four children, Joshua, Michael, Jonathan and Rylee; a brother, Les (Barbara) Stutzman; and a large extended family.
A member of Clinton Frame Church, Lyle worked as a truck driver.
Yoder-Culp Funeral Home is assisting the family.
In lieu of flowers the family would appreciate assistance with final expenses.
Stutzman, Sarah J.
April 14, 1983 - October 28, 2024
Sarah J. Stutzman, 41 of Arcola, Illinois passed away at 9:05 PM on Monday, October 28, 2024 at her residence.
Funeral services will be held at 10:00 AM on Thursday, October 31, 2024 at the Sunnyside Mennonite Church, 477 IL US Route 133, Arcola, Illinois. Pastor Brian Petershiem will officiate.
Burial will be in the Miller Cemetery in rural Arcola, Illinois.
Visitation will be held from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Tuesday, October 29, 2024 from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Wednesday, October 30, 2024 all at the Sunnyside Mennonite Church. The Edwards Funeral Home is assisting with arrangements.
Sarah was born on April 14, 1983 at home in rural Arcola, Illinois. She was a daughter of Jacob M. and Mary Ann (Miller) Stutzman.
She is survived by her parents, Jacob and Mary Ann Stutzman of Arcola IL, six siblings: Phillip J. Stutzman and his wife Rebecca (Miller) of Sarasota FL, Reuben Stutzman and his wife Deana (Miller) of Arcola IL, Martha Stutzman of Arcola IL, Noah Stutzman and his wife Helen Sue (Beechy) of Bloomfield IA, Elias Stutzman and his wife Jorena (Hostetler) of Arthur IL, and Roman Stutzman of Sarasota FL. two nephews: Brian Stutzman and Jolan Matthew Stutzman. six nieces: Jennifer Lauren Townsend and her husband Jordan, Tara Noelle Stutzman and special friend Sly Paul, Leona Kay Herschberger and her husband Nelson, Alicia Faith Stutzman, LeAnn Grace Stutzman and Vanessa Joy Stutzman. two great nephews: Jacob Kai Townsend and Adam David Herschberger, and one great niece: Juliette Jordyn Townsend.
She was preceded in death by her paternal grandparents, Eli and Saloma (Hochstetler) Stutzman, her maternal grandparents, Alvin and Anna (Kaufman) Miller, one sister, Anna Stutzman, one aunt, Verna Beachy, a still born niece Lori Grace Stutzman, and two cousins, Jalon Miller and Dorothy Stutzman.
Sarah was a member of the North Vine Mennonite Church.
She enjoyed baking and would always bless family and friends with tasty treats on birthdays and special occasions.
Stutzman, Sarah Mae Herschberger
May 27, 1943 - March 10, 2024
Sarah Mae (Herschberger) Stutzman, 80 years, 9 months, and 12 days of rural Sullivan, Illinois passed away at 6:45 P.M. on Sunday, March 10, 2024, at her residence.
Funeral services will be held at 9:00 A.M. on Wednesday, March 13, 2024, at the HCK West Building, 1 mile south of Arthur, Illinois. Bishop Philip Farmwald will officiate. Burial will be in the Yoder Cemetery in rural Arthur, Illinois.
Visitation will be held any time after 2:00 P.M. on Monday, March 11, 2024, and any time after 10:00 A.M. on Tuesday, March 12, 2024, all at the HCK West Building. The Edwards Funeral Home is assisting with arrangements.
Sarah Mae was born on May 27, 1943, in Tuscola, Illinois. She was a daughter of Noah E. and Tillie (Mast) Herschberger. She married Marvin Clarence Stutzman on September 27, 1966, in Coles County, Illinois. He passed away on October 27, 2012. They lived in Holy Matrimony 46 years and 1 month.
She is survived by eight children, Nathanael Stutzman and his wife Arlene (Schrock) of Worthington, IN; Marcus Stutzman and his wife Ruth (Borntreger) of Arthur, IL; Sanford Stutzman and his wife Irma (Herschberger) of Campbell Hill, IL; Rhoda Hostetler and her husband Larry of Arthur, IL; Leander Stutzman and his wife Deloris (Herschberger) of Millington, MI; Elizabeth Yoder and her husband Clifford of Arthur, IL; David Stutzman and his wife Treva (Hostetler) of Sullivan, IL; and Jonathan Stutman and his wife Melinda (Stutzman) of Sullivan, IL; sixty grandchildren, sixteen great-grandchildren, five brothers: Willis Herschberger and his wife Rachel of Windsor, MO; Elva Herschberger and his wife Edna Viola of Humboldt, IL; Ervin Herschberger and his wife Arlene of Chetopa, KS; Andy Ray Herschberger and his wife Ada Fern of Windsor, MO; and Perry Herschberger and his wife Delores of Reedsville, WI; two sisters: Fannie Beiler and her husband Arthur of Burgettstown, PA and Ruth Ann Stutzman and her husband Willard of Arcola, IL.
Sarah was preceded in death by her husband Marvin C. Stutzman; her parents, Noah and Tillie Herschberger; one granddaughter, LeAnna Kay Stutzman; son-in-law, Leroy Plank; brother-in-law, Eldon Beachy and a sister-in-law Ruth (Miller) Herschberger.
Sarah Mae was a member of the Old Order Amish Church.
Suter, Geneva Emswiler
May 1, 1936 - March 31, 2024
Geneva Emswiler Suter, 87, a resident of Harrisonburg, died Sunday, March 31, 2024, at Crestwood at VMRC.
Mrs. Suter was born May 1, 1936 in Denbigh, Va. and was a daughter of the late Clyde Francis Emswiler and Esther Mast Emswiler Blosser.
On Sept. 12, 1959, she married Jay Merlyn Suter, who preceded her in death on March 25, 2022.
She graduated from Eastern Mennonite High School in 1954, George Washington Hospital School of Medical Technology in 1958, and Eastern Mennonite College in 1965. In 1998, she retired from Rockingham Memorial Hospital as Microbiology Supervisor in the laboratory. She also taught in the hospital’s School of Medical Technology for 30 years. She volunteered at the Harrisonburg-Rockingham Free Clinic from 1982 until 2019 and Gift and Thrift from 1999 until 2019.
Mrs. Suter was a member of the Rockingham Memorial Hospital Auxiliary, VMRC Auxiliary, and Harrisonburg Mennonite Church. Geneva enjoyed traveling, fiber arts, and spending time with ladies of her church community.
Surviving are a daughter, Carmen Suter Williams and husband, Jeff, of Mechanicsburg, Pa.; sister, Margaret Wenger and husband, William, of Rockingham; three step-grandchildren, Meredith Smith (Chris), Shannon Roenicke (Andrew), and Michael Williams; six great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.
Following cremation, a graveside service will be held Saturday, April 13, 2024, at 12:30 p.m. at Weavers Mennonite Church Cemetery. A memorial service will follow at 1:30 p.m. at Harrisonburg Mennonite Church with Pastor Craig Maven officiating. The family will receive friends following the service.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Blue Ridge Free Clinic, 831 MLK Way, Harrisonburg, VA 22801.
McMullen Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Swarey, Mary L. Good
November 3, 1948 - October 5, 2024
Mary L. Swarey, 75, of Green Lane, Reedsville, passed away on Saturday, Oct. 5, 2024.
Born on Nov. 3, 1948, in Orrville, OH, she was the daughter of the late Heber and Edith (Weaver) Good. On Nov. 26, 1978, she married Benjamin H. Swarey, who preceded her in death on Nov. 23, 2015.
Surviving are children: Beth Unruh and husband, Trevon, of Grafton, ND and Karlin Swarey and wife, Ashley, of Lewistown; nine grandchildren; siblings: Rachel Unruh and husband, Dennis, of Versailles, MO, Lawrence Good and wife, Dorothy, of Center, CO, Lena Troyer and husband, Luke, of Dalton, OH; sisters-in-law: Judy Good of Kidron, OH, Aneta Hochstetler of Faunsdale, AL, Naomi Swarey of Mattawana, Crist Swarey and wife, Vivian, of Almena, WI, Amos Swarey and wife, LaWanda, of El Dorado, KS, Rachel Koehn and husband, Royce, of Jamesport, MS, and Carol Swarey of Belleville.
In addition to her husband and parents, she was preceded in death by two brothers.
Prior to marriage, she worked in an upholstery shop in Ohio. Following marriage, she was primarily a homemaker and assisted her husband on the dairy farm.
She was a member of Rock Haven Mennonite Church.
She enjoyed vegetable gardening, tending to her flowers, and watching the birds. She also loved spending time with her grandchildren.
A viewing will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 8, 2024 at Rock Haven Mennonite Church, 146 Peachey Road, Belleville. The funeral service will be held at the church on Wednesday, Oct. 9, 2024 beginning at 10:30 a.m. with Stanton Unruh, Luke Troyer, Amos Peachey & Stanton Schmidt officiating. Burial will be at the Rock Haven Cemetery.
Arrangements are under the care of Henderson Funeral Home, 3813 West Main Street, Belleville.
Swartzendruber, Winston Waldo
August 26, 1941 - April 26, 2024
Winston Waldo Swartzendruber was born August 26, 1941 in Huron Co., MI. He passed into Heaven after 41 days in the hospital and rehab in AZ April 26, 2024 at 11:30 a.m., surrounded by family. He was preceded in death by his only brother Cecil, and Winston's son Gregory Dean Swartzendruber in 1998 at age 24 in a plane crash.
He is survived by his wife Corinne Miller Swartzendruber after 56 years and 8 months of marriage. Also survived by son Frank (Tracy) Swartzendruber of Tyrone, PA, Marcella (Brent) Miller of Newport, VT, and Lori (Greg) Miller of Lititz, PA; 11 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren.
Winston loved the Lord and was active at Forest Hills Mennonite Church in Leola, PA and Trinity Mennonite Church in Glendale, AZ. He was the best Husband, Dad, Grandpa, friend and neighbor.
He was greatly loved by everyone he met.
A Memorial Service will be held Saturday, May 25 at 11 AM at Forest Hills Mennonite Church, 100 Quarry Rd., Leola, PA. He will be laid to rest in Leola, PA.
Swartzentruber, Fannie J. Raber
March 21, 1936 - May 31, 2024
Fannie J. (Raber) Swartzentruber, 88, of Millersburg, passed away peacefully on Friday, May 31, 2024 surrounded by her family at her home.
She was born in Holmes County on March 21, 1936 to the late John and Katie (Garver) Raber and married Junior A. Swartzentruber on June 7, 1953. He preceded her in death on August 11, 2013.
She is survived by her children, Gladys (Dennis) Miller, Lonnie (Mary) Swartzentruber and Gloria (Rick) Thompson; grandchildren, Brooke (Tyler) Yoder, Bryan Miller, Amber (Reuben) Miller, Travis (Jamie) Swartzentruber, Trey (Amy) Thompson, Brent (Emily) Thompson and Brittany Thompson; great grandchildren, Ian, Kai, Connar, River, Rane, Brody and Mackenzie; sisters, Linda Yoder, Minerva Swartzentruber, Martha Gravois and Elsie Gingerich; and brothers, Ben, Adin, Dave, Atlee and Paul Raber.
In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by a granddaughter, Tamara Miller; sisters, Edna Beachy and Kay Smith; and brothers, Vernon and Junior Raber.
Fannie was a great cook and baker, who was known for her cinnamon rolls and doughnuts. She was an avid gardener and enjoyed playing games with family and friends.. She had a great sense of humor and loved spending time with her family. She was a special sister and aunt and cherished her family.
Friends may call on Thursday, June 6, 2024 from 5-8:00 pm at Pleasant View Mennonite Church, 3391 US 62, Millersburg, OH. Private family services will be held with burial in the Pleasant View Cemetery. Spidell Funeral Home in Mount Eaton is handling the arrangements.
The family would like to thank the staff of Ohio's Hospice LifeCare and her excellent caregivers for their kind and loving care.
Memorial contributions may be made to Ohio's Hospice LifeCare, 1900 Akron Road, Wooster, OH 44691.