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Lazarus Project

An obituary project of MennObits.
Source of individual obituaries given with each record.
This file is named for the year the obituary was recorded here, not the death year.

2026: N-R

QUICK REFERENCE INDEX (click on name to jump to obituary)



Neuenschwander, Esther Irene (Good)

December 2, 1938 - January 23, 2026

Esther Irene (Good) Neuenschwander, 87, of Kidron, OH passed away on Friday, January 23, 2026.

She was born on December 2, 1938 to Willis and Bertha (Eberly) Good of Dalton, OH and married Clarence Neuenschwander on June 10, 1962 and he survives.

She accepted Christ in her youth and faithfully served Him by serving others.  Following their marriage, she and her husband served two years at Millersville Children's Home.  Through the years they opened their home to numerous people which blessed the family in many ways.

In addition to her husband, she is survived by 2 sons and 5 daughters, Philip and Jennifer Neuenschwander, Brenda and Roger Hoover, Ann and Dennis Trautwein, all of Kidron, OH, Kary and Jason Martin of Salem, OH, Nancy and Elvin Fox of Willard, OH, Ferne and Darrell Amstutz of Red Wing, MN and Joel and Marla Neuenschwander of Flat Rock, IN; 50 grandchildren; 41 great grandchildren; 5 sisters, Arlene Nighswander, Ruth Good, Dorothy Steiner, Anna Lois Zimmerman and Carolyn Horst; a brother-in-law, Gerald Geiser; and sisters-in-law, Loretta Good and Luella Eberly.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a granddaughter, Shannon Hoover; a brother, Marvin Good; and two sisters, Velma Geiser and Luella Good.

Calling hours will be on Monday, January 26, 2026 from 4-7:00 pm and Tuesday, January 27, 2026 from 2-4:00 and 6-8:00 pm at Sonnenberg Mennonite Church near Kidron, OH.  Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, January 28, 2026 at 10:00 am at Oak Ridge Mennonite Church, 770 Millborne Road, Wooster, OH.  Burial will follow in the church cemetery.
https://www.smithfuneralhomesugarcreek.com/obituaries/Esther-Irene-Neuenschwander?obId=47055480#/obituaryInfo  - Accessed January 24, 2026 by Amy Stauffer-McNutt

Nisley, Laura M.

04/19/1929 - 11/05/2025

Laura M. Nisley, age 96, of Sarasota, Florida, passed away peacefully in God's appointed time, at home at 3:56 pm on Wednesday, November 5, 2025.  She was born April 19, 1929, in Nappanee, Indiana, to Menno and Malinda (Miller) Yoder.  On March 10, 1955, she married Ray C. Nisley.  Ray passed away on December 17, 2016.
 
Laura is survived by 3 children: Linda (Paul) Yoder of Sarasota, Dave (Grace) Nisley of Sarasota, and Mary Lou Fisher (Isaac, deceased) of Coatesville, Pennsylvania; 14 grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren, and 4 step great-grandchildren; one brother, Ervin Yoder of Shipshewana, Indiana; brother-in-law Devon Fingerle of Sarasota,; and 3 sisters-in-law, Elnora Yoder of Nappanee, IN, Leanna Yoder of Belle Center, Ohio, and Marie Yoder of Sarasota.
 
Preceding Laura in death are her parents and 10 siblings: Alvin Yoder, Lester Yoder, Levi Yoder, Emmon Yoder, Amos Yoder, Owen Yoder, Willie Yoder, Lizzie Hochstetler, Gertie Yoder, and Sylvia Fingerle; grandsons John David Fisher and Olen Ray Fisher.
 
Laura was a member of Tourist Mennonite Church. She was a house cleaner and had worked at Yoder's Restaurant.
 
Friends are invited to a viewing on Saturday, November 8, 2025, from 5-8 pm at Tourist Mennonite Church, 3340 Bahia Vista St, Sarasota, FL 34239.
The funeral will be held on Sunday, November 9, 2025, 10:30 am at Tourist Mennonite Church, with viewing 9:30 to 10:30 am.
Burial will be at Sunnyside Mennonite Cemetery.
 
In lieu of flowers, donations may be given to Duke Duvall, at Light of the World Ministries.
https://yourtraditionsfuneralhome.com/obit/laura-m-nisley
Accessed January 10, 2026 by Phil Kniss

Nunemaker, Margaret Ann

June 13, 1945 - July 9, 2025

Margaret Ann Nunemaker, a long time resident of St. Johns and native of Maple Rapids, Michigan, died peacefully on July 9, 2025, at Hazel Findlay Country Manor in St. Johns. She was 80 years old.

Born in St. Johns on June 13, 1945, Margaret was the daughter of Marvin and Minnie (Parkerson) Nunemaker. A 1963 graduate of Fulton High School, she continued her education at Goshen College in Indiana and later earned her Master’s Degree in Education from the University of St. Francis in Fort Wayne, Indiana.

Margaret began her teaching career in Middlebury, Indiana, but soon returned home to devote herself to the students of Fulton Schools. Over the years, she served as an elementary teacher and counselor at Fulton Elementary, taught physical education and health at Fulton High School, and made a lasting impact as a coach and Athletic Director. She coached volleyball, basketball, and track, and was honored as a Lansing State Journal Coach of the Year. Under her leadership, several volleyball teams advanced to championship finals.

She also worked as a medical assistant with the Clinton County Medical Center and was a dedicated member of Bethel Mennonite Church in Ashley. Margaret was deeply rooted in her faith, regularly attending Bible study and reading scripture. She was firm in her beliefs, outspoken, and known for her strong moral compass.

To her students and athletes, she was affectionately called “Sarge.” To her great-nieces and nephews, she was lovingly known as “Maggie Monster.” Whether in the classroom, on the court, or in the church pew, Margaret led with conviction and heart.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her brother-in-law, Bill Nemetz; and her nephew, Marvin Todd Nunemaker.

Surviving are her sister, Marvia Nemetz of Maple Rapids; brothers, Samuel E. (Jean) Nunemaker of Spartanburg, South Carolina and Bill (Connie) Nunemaker of Shevlin, MN; nephews and nieces, John ""Brad"" (Sheri) Smeltzer, Samuel Nunemaker, Angela Easterday, Anita (Jeremy) Viele, and Paul Nemetz, as well as many great-nieces and great-nephews who loved and admired her deeply.

Visitation will be held at McGeehan Funeral Home, Keck-Coleman Chapel, 1500 Waterford Parkway, St. Johns, on Tuesday, July 15, from 3 to 7 PM. A Funeral Service will be held at the funeral home on Wednesday, July 16, at 11 AM. Cremation will follow, with interment in Collier Cemetery.

Memorials may be made in Margaret’s name to the Maple Rapids Library or to Fulton Schools Athletics.
https://www.mcgeehanfh.com/obituaries/Margaret-Ann-Nunemaker?obId=43557564  - Accessed January 18, 2026 by Kevin Miller

Overholt, Leora (Yoder)

January 22, 1940 - December 19, 2025

Leora (Yoder) Overholt, age 85, was born in Virginia Beach, Virginia, on January 22, 1940, to parents J. Elmer and Amanda Yoder.  She passed from this life on December 19, 2025. 

Funeral services will be held Monday, December 22, 2025 at 10:30am at the Franklin Mennonite Church, 102 Mennonite Church Road, Franklin,  KY 42134.  Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Visitation will be Sunday, December 21, 2025 from 2pm until 4pm and again from 6pm until 8pm at the church.

Leora was married to Mervin Overholt on November 3, 1961, and lived with her husband of 64 years in Logan County, Kentucky.  She was a member of the Franklin Mennonite Church, in Franklin, Kentucky. 

Leora is survived by her husband and six children: Naomi (Jim) Yoder, Columbus, NC; Jonathan (Cheryl), Auburn, KY; Nathan (Rose), Russellville, KY; Wayne (Elva), Russellville, KY; Michael (Darlene), Ripley, WV; Tim (Joyce), Ripley, WV; and twenty-eight grandchildren and nineteen great-grandchildren. Also surviving are three siblings: Marie Yoder (late David), New Holland, PA; Roy (Mary) Yoder, Harrisonburg, VA;  Omar (Esther) Yoder, New Holland, PA;  and two sisters-in-law: Erma (late Owen) Yoder and Paula (late Eldon) Yoder.

She was preceded in death by her parents and five siblings: Treva Zook, Owen Yoder, Elmina Yoder, Viola Yoder, and Eldon Yoder; brothers-in-law Bill Zook and David Yoder; and one grandchild: Carlan Yoder. 

Leora (Mom) spent her younger years on a farm in Virginia Beach, where they produced chicken, duck, and rabbit for the farmer’s market. They were not rich, and she knew what it was like to not have indoor plumbing in an era when most of her friends took such things for granted.

When Mom was 14, she gave her heart to Jesus during a revival conducted by George R. Brunk.  She loved her church and throughout her life would often refer back quotes and sermons given by Jake Hershberger, her bishop.

Mom taught school for two years prior to marriage, and did one brief teaching stint after marriage, when she took over a classroom to help after the former teacher passed away mid-term. Her love for learning and words continued throughout the rest of her life.

In 1969, she moved to Kentucky. Although a dairy farmer’s wife, farming was never her first love. Her main outdoor activities often focused on caring for her much-loved flower beds.

Mom is remembered for her neat and organized ways. For many years she worked as the secretary for Overholt and Sons, the family storage shed business. Her records were meticulously kept and her files were well organized.

Leora suffered from dementia in her later years. During her journey through mental illness she continued to exemplify a sweet spirit and brought joy to her caretakers. Her love for singing continued, and she could often be comforted in her anxiety and confusion by being led in a song.  
We wish to thank the many people who have blessed our lives and Mom’s life over the years.  Thank-you and God bless you!

Quotes from Mother’s Bible:
https://www.craftonfuneralhome.com/obituary/leora-overholt Accessed January 14, 2026 by Phil Kniss

Pannabecker, Donald Lloyd

August 13, 1936 - January 17, 2026

Donald Lloyd Pannabecker, aged 89, passed away on January 17, 2026 at Mennonite Memorial Home after a brief illness.

Don was born on August 13, 1936 to Charles Lloyd and Lelia Roth Pannabecker while his family was on a six week furlough from China. He joined sisters Betty Jean (deceased) and Anita (surviving), with brother Danny (deceased) completing the family of six four years later. Don was raised in China his first four years where his father was a medical missionary and then grew up and graduated from High School in Peoria, Illinois.

Don went to Bluffton College in 1954 where he met his wife, Romaine Keller Clemens. Don and Romaine graduated in 1958, married and had three children: Dina, Cheryl and Tim (Joanne Dewerse).

Don received a Masters of Divinity degree from McCormick Seminary and a PhD from Toledo University. He spent his working years, from 1964 to 1997, at Bluffton College both as a faculty member and later as an administrator.

Don calculated he preached 1,032 times in various churches, mostly Presbyterian.

His interests included computer applications, church work and the arts.

He is survived by his wife, Romaine Pannabecker, children, Dina, Cheryl and Tim (Joanne Dewerse) and five grandchildren: Sam and Charlie Evans; and Seth, Kate and Mia Pannabecker.

Don was an ordained minister for the Presbyterian Church.

A memorial service for Don will be held at Mennonite Memorial Home, Saturday, February 7, 2026 at 3:00 p.m.in the Chapel.

Donations can be made to the Charles L. and Lelia Roth Pannabecker Family fund at Bluffton University.
https://www.blufftonicon.com/news/2026/01/20/donald-lloyd-pannabecker-was-bluffton-college-administrator  - Accessed January 20, 2026 by Amy Stauffer-McNutt

Penner, Julia Ellen

March 4, 1928 — January 4, 2026

Julia Ellen Penner, age 97, of Mountain Lake, Minnesota, passed from us to her Lord, January 4, 2026.

Julia was born on March 4, 1928, to Clarence and Clara (Martin) Smucker. At the age of 12, she trusted Jesus as her Savior, and a year later, during a youth meeting, she made a wholehearted commitment to live her life for the Lord who had died and risen again for her. Her faith remained the foundation and guiding strength of her life.

On June 6, 1953, Julia married Bruno Penner at the Mennonite Church in Orrville, Ohio. They had met the previous summer while serving together in voluntary service. During that time, Bruno often preached at outdoor Sunday services, while Julia accompanied congregational singing on a portable organ. Through shared faith, mutual respect and love, and joy in one another’s company, their lifelong partnership was formed.

From 1951 to 1952, Julia taught first and second grade in Orrville, Ohio. After marriage, she devoted herself to her family, serving faithfully alongside Bruno in his various pastorates while lovingly raising their five children.

Though busy at home, Julia consistently found ways to serve others. She wrote children’s Sunday School curriculum for Mennonite Publishing House, attended women’s church meetings, and occasionally shared short talks or devotions during Sunday evening services. She also served as Primary Superintendent of Sunday School. During the summers, Julia opened her home to children from Chicago, and she and Bruno frequently welcomed guests, including visiting missionaries. In later years, as Bruno became less mobile, Julia’s devoted care and attentiveness stood as a lasting example to her children of love and commitment.

Julia is survived by her five children: Carolyn (Kevin) Randall of Huntsville, Texas; Timothy (Carolyn) Penner of Goshen, Indiana; Sharon (Perry) Harder of Mountain Lake, Minnesota; Mary (Steve) Cheslik of Harrisonville, Missouri; and Dan (Cheryl) Penner of Blair, Nebraska. She is also survived by 21 grandchildren and 34 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Bruno Penner; her parents; her sisters, Pauline, Virginia, and Carol; her brothers, Richard and Robert; and her great-granddaughter, June Randall.

Julia will be remembered for her steadfast faith, quiet service, generous hospitality, and deep love for her family and church. In a story she wrote for her children about her life with Bruno, she included these lines by Charles Wesley:

"All praise to our redeeming Lord, who joins us by His grace, And bids us each to each restored, together seek His face. He bids us build each other up; and gathered into one, To our high calling’s glorious hope, we hand in hand go on."
https://www.sturmfh.com/obituaries/julia-penner Accessed January 14, 2026 by Phil Kniss

Peters, Earl Chester

March 19, 1933 - July 16, 2015

Louisville, GA  –  Earl Chester Peters, 82, was called home to be with the Lord Thursday, July 16, 2015.

Born at home in Newark Township, Michigan, Earl was one of 9 children born to the late Cary Ezra Peters and Flossie Iota Allman. On March 21, 1945 at the age of twelve, Earl was baptized and became a member of the Church of God in Christ Mennonite.  Here began his life as a light of his faith, which was so evident in the life that he lived and the people’s lives he touched.  In 1952, Earl met the love of his life in Harrison, Michigan and on August 8, 1954, he married Ellyn Mae Gearig to whom he was married for over sixty years.  Over the next nine years, the addition of six children blessed his life.
Working throughout his entire life, Earl taught the value of hard work and dedication to his children as well as those around him.  As a young man he worked in the sawmill industry with his father. In 1970 Earl and his family moved to  Louisville, GA where he ran a dairy and farmed.  He also worked in the construction field with his cousins and alongside his sons at various times.  He had a passion for engineering and inventing and was the man many would count on to come up with a solution to almost anything.

Earl loved his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ with all his heart and faithfully served him throughout his life.  He never met a stranger or missed an opportunity to witness for the Lord.  Helping others was as much a part of him as breathing.  Throughout his life he volunteered his time to others.  Ministering to young prisoners, working with the Red Cross and helping in service units for disaster relief across the country were just some of the ways Earl served his church and community.  He would never hesitate to drop what he was doing to help someone in need.  Loving, Compassionate, and Selfless, that was him. He was the greatest story teller of all times.

Earl is survived by his wife Ellyn, his six children; Dawn Peters (GA), Steve Peters (Kim) SC, Dottie Peters (GA), Denise Unruh (Verle) OR, LeaErla Sheffield (Sam) TN and Sam Peters (Susan) SC; seven siblings, Herbert Peters, Hazel Holdeman, Orville Peters, Willard Peters, Edna Peters, Helen Peters and Donna Fellows; Twenty-two Grandchildren and Twenty Great-Grandchildren.  Serving as Pallbearers and honorary pallbearers are: Michael Peters, Shawn Peters, Justin Schmidt, Jason Schmidt,  Shalyn Unruh, Seth Unruh, Grant Sheffield, Tyler Sheffield, Zack Sheffield, Trevor Sheffield, Colton Peters, Ethan Grindle and Marc Wade.

Preceding him in death are his parents, his brother Wayne, and his granddaughter Amy Jewel Giesbrecht.

Funeral services will be held in the Pinecrest Mennonite Church at 4:00 P.M. Wednesday, July 22, 2015.  The family will receive friends at Pinecrest Mennonite Church from 7:00-9:00 P.M. Tuesday evening, July 21, 2015.

The family would like to thank everyone for the love, prayers, and kindness given to us during this very difficult time.  We are touched and blessed.
https://www.jamesfhwrens.com/obituaries/earl-peters  - Accessed January 18, 2026 by Kevin Miller

Peters, Edna Mae

March 9, 1932 - September 17, 2025

Edna Mae Peters was born March 9, 1932 to Cary & Flossie (Allman) Peters at home in North Star, MI. She was the middle sibling in a family of nine. Edna peacefully passed away in the early morning hours of September 17, 2025, reaching the age of 93 years.

When Edna was a young child, the family relocated to Harrison, MI. Edna attended the one room Amble School. As a young adult, Edna completed her high school education with American School Correspondence Courses. She then attended college in Manhattan, KS, becoming a registered dietician. Edna moved several times, living in Harrison, MI, Kansas, California, and finally settling at Alma, MI, where she resided, until in her later years, she moved into Maple View Retirement Community. The family is very grateful for the loving care she received from Maple View in the last years of her life.

Edna led a very active life. She worked for a number of years at Gratiot Community Hospital, Bethel Home, and Grace Nursing Home in the dietary department. She also had a heart for children, and was a foster mother and a day care provider. Edna loved gardening and in later years had a large garden where she raised produce and flowers. She took those, along with baked goods, to the Alma Farmers Market for many years. Edna was a seamstress, sewing many Habits for the Nuns at the local Convent in Alma. She also made many quilts and crocheted blankets. Edna had a love for poetry, and memorized many lengthy poems that she enjoyed reciting.

Edna gave her heart to the Lord, and was baptized by Minister Frank Haynes into the Church of God in Christ, Mennonite on October 21, 1945 at Harrison, MI. Edna's Christian life was one of many challenges, but in her sunset years her heart was softened, and God reached down and touched her with forgiveness and freedom. She leaves her family with an assurance that all is well with her soul.

Edna is survived by two sisters, Helen Peters of Ithaca, MI, and Donna (Kurt) Fellows of Alma, MI; one sister-in-law, Ellyn Peters of Ithaca, MI; four generations of beloved nieces and nephews; and many relatives and friends.

She is pre-deceased by her parents; five brothers, Herbert, Orval, Willard, Earl, & Wayne; one sister, Hazel Holdeman; one brother-in-law, Paul Holdeman; and three sisters-in-law, Vada, Leona, and Mary.

Funeral services will be held on Sunday, September 21, 2025, at 10:30 A.M. at the Newark Mennonite Church with Michael Litwiller, Darin Litwiller, and Douglas Salsbury officiating. The family will receive friends from 2 P.M. to 5 P.M. at the Maple View Retirement Community 4396 S. Luce Road, Ithaca, MI 48847. Burial will take place on Sunday at 3 P.M. at the Hamilton Cedar Crest Cemetery 4980 N. Rogers Ave, Harrison, MI 48625.

Those desiring to make contributions in Edna’s memory may do so by donating to Maple View Retirement Community, 4396 S. Luce Rd., Ithaca, Michigan, 48847.
https://www.burkhead-green-kilgo.com/obituaries/edna-peters  - Accessed January 18, 2026 by Kevin Miller

Peters, Herbert Russell

November 12, 1923 - January 29, 2020

Herbert Russell Peters was born on Nov. 12, 1923, to Cary and Flossie Allman Peters in Alma, MI. He peacefully passed away on Jan. 29, 2020 at Hickory Woods Assisted Living in Murray, KY, reaching the age of 96 years.
Dad was the oldest in a family of nine children. His father was a victim of polio and became crippled. Thus, Dad had to take more responsibility to help care for the family. He received his eight years of formal education in the Ithaca area.
At a young age, Dad felt the Lord call him and he repented of his sins and was baptized into the Church of God in Christ Mennonite, on April 9, 1937, by Min. Hiram Mininger. His Christian life was always very meaningful to him. Family devotions and church attendance were very important to him. He remained true to his faith all the days of his life.
Dad met Mom, Vada Buerge, and they were married at Pettisville, Ohio, on June 27, 1948, by his grandfather, Min. August R. Peters. They shared joys and sorrows of life for over 71 years. One son, August, was born to them. In Oct. of 1954, they began their time as missionaries in Mexico, in the state of Chihuahua. They enjoyed their time, and often talked about their experiences there. They spent seven years there and returned to their home in Harrison, MI in Jan. 1962. While in Mexico, they welcomed into their home a starved 4-month old baby, John, whom they later adopted. He met a tragic death at the age of 22 years. They had many years caring for foster children in their home, making lifelong friends. Later in life, they adopted Leah who had been a foster child when she was young. He provided for his family by owning and running a crate manufacturing business, and also was into sales of different products. Gardening was always an enjoyable way to spend his day. He especially enjoyed growing strawberries in his older years and spent hours on hands and knees weeding and picking strawberries. In 1993, they moved to Murray, KY to be near their children. Dad enjoyed being part of the congregation and he will be missed.
Left to cherish fond memories are his wife, Vada; one son, August and Kathy Peters, Sedalia, KY; one daughter, Leah and Michael Doud, Essexville, MI; nine grandchildren, eighteen great grandchildren and one great great grandchild; two brothers, Orval Peters, Walnut Hill, FL., and Willard Peters, Barron, WI; three sisters, Edna Peters and Helen Peters, Ithaca, MI. and Donna and Kurt Fellows, Alma, MI; one sister-in-law, Ellyn Peters, Louisville, GA. His wife's family, brother-in-law Harold Buerge, Kernersville, NC, and sister-in-law Shirley Buerge, Sarasota, FL.
He was preceded in death by his parents, parents-in-law, one son, two brothers, one sister, two brothers-in-law, and four sisters-in-law.
The funeral service will be held on Monday, February 3, 2020 at 10:30 a.m. at the Harmony Mennonite Church with Sam Leham, Jeff Goertzen, and Donavon Koehn officiating. Burial will follow in the Harmony Mennonite Church Cemetery. Visitation will be held on Sunday, February 2, 2020 from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. at the Harmony Mennonite Church.
Expressions of sympathy can be made to the Harmony Mennonite Church, 83 Honeybee Lane, Murray, Kentucky 42071 or to the Anna Mae Owen Residential Hospice House, 803 Poplar Street, Murray, Kentucky 42071.
Online condolences can be made at www.thejhchurchillfuneralhome.com
https://obits.jhchurchill.com/herbert-peters  - Accessed January 18, 2026 by Kevin Miller

Peters, Mary Louise (Koehn)

June 19, 1937 - January 13, 2014

Mary Louise Peters, 76, of Barron, WI quietly passed away with her family by her side the evening of January 13, 2014. Mary was born to Wilbert and Margaret (Gable) Koehn, on June 19, 1937, near Harrison, MI.
Mary grew up in the Harrison community and received her formal education at the Amble School.
On July 24, 1955 she married Willard Peters, in Harrison, MI, where they made their home for 23 years. They moved to El Campo, TX in 1978 and enjoyed the new friends they made there. In the summer of 1980 they moved to Barron, WI area. There they purchased a dairy farm. After the children married they left the dairy farm, relocating in the area.
Mary was industrious person, and loved to interact with people. While living in Michigan, she and a sister-in-law opened up a bakery and that began a lifelong trade for her. She was employed in the Harvest Inn Bakery and also the Barron Bakery for a number of years, creating lasting friendships. Another special time of her life was when they opened up their home to baby-sit for several families. These children became a part of Bill and Mary’s lives, and shared many good times together through the years. She had very caring love for her children and grandchildren. Family times were special times.
Mary is survived by her Husband, Willard (Bill) Peters of Barron, WI, Son, Kevin (Sheila) Peters of Barron, WI, Daughters, Joleen (Larry) Kenagy of Almena, WI, Gayla (Ezra) Kanagy of Barron, WI, 13 grandchildren, 1 Great-Grandchildren, Brothers, Albert (Carol) Koehn of Barron, WI, Martin (Norma) Koehn of Harrison, MI, Sister, Rosella (Wallace) Longpre of Plains, MT.
She was preceded in death by her Parents, and one infant Grandson.
Services will be held at Barron Mennonite Church on Friday, January 17, 2014 at 10:30 AM. Burial will be at Barron Mennonite Cemetery. Visitation will be held at the Rausch and Steel Funeral Home in Barron on Thursday, January 16, 2014 from 4-7 PM and one hour prior to services at the church. Online condolences can be made at www.rauschandsteelfuneralhome.com.
https://www.rauschandsteelfuneralhome.com/obituary/2381308  - Accessed January 18, 2026 by Kevin Miller

Peters, Orval A.

May 14, 1927 - February 10, 2022

Orval A. Peters was born May 14, 1927 to Cary and Flossie Allman Peters in Gratiot County Michigan. He completed his earthly race early in the morning of February 10, 2022, having reached the age of 94 years.

Orval was the third child in a family with three brothers and four sisters, and the first years of his life along with his school education were in Harrison, Michigan. He answered God’s call, experienced his sins forgiven, and was baptized into the Church of God in Christ, Mennonite by minister Frank Haynes on March 12, 1944. Orval began a home of his own when he married Leona Litwiller on November 23, 1947, and they shared 54 years of married life together. Their home was blessed with five children—two sons and three daughters—although sadly, Dennis and Kathy passed away in childhood.

Orval and Leona were married and lived in Michigan for a short time before relocating to Florida, but with the passage of time Mississippi and New Mexico were added to the list of locations that they called home. A special time of service was spent in the mission at Albuquerque, New Mexico and after the term of service was over, they made Albuquerque their place of residence until moving back to Florida in 1992. Wherever “home” was located, it was known as a hospitable place, a place where visitors felt welcome and loved. Orval loved to visit and form relationships with others, and his mind was a treasure trove of interesting stories and adventures from the past.

Relationships were not the only things Orval was skilled in building; the tools of the carpentry trade were familiar in his hands, and he spent many years working with wood on a variety of projects. His base of knowledge was broad, and he was willing to share time and talent with others. He also loved gardening and busied himself caring for his plants as long as his strength allowed, sharing excess produce with family and friends. Orval had the gift of maintaining a positive outlook—“Why would I complain, nobody would want to listen to that”, is what he was known to express. Praying was important and meaningful to Orval, and after the lonely years following the loss of his wife, further compounded by declining health and strength, being a “prayer warrior” gave a sense of purpose to his life.

Left to cherish their memories are one son Ken, of Akron, Ohio, two daughters: Sandra & Melvin Iutzi of Walnut Hill, Florida, and Karen & Larry Smith of Surprise Arizona, one brother Bill, and three sisters: Edna, Helen, and Donna & Kurt Fellows, all of Ithaca Michigan; sisters-in-law: Vada Peters of Murray, Kentucky and Ellyn Peters of Ithaca, Michigan; ten grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. Preceding him in death were his wife Leona, two brothers, one sister, one brother-in-law, one son and one daughter, and two grandsons.

The funeral service was held at Southern Harbor Mennonite Church on Tuesday, February 15, 2022 at 10:00 a.m. and officiated by Galen Harms, Cameron Boeckner, and Wesley Wenger. Burial will follow in Walnut Hill Mennonite Church Cemetery.

Active pallbearers will be Marlin Iutzi, Terrill Iutzi, Adam Peters, Alex Peters, Clifton Smith, Reuben Smith and Jayden Iutzi.

Visitation will be held Monday, February 14, 2022 from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Southern Harbor Mennonite Church.

Johnson-Quimby Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
https://www.johnsonquimby.com/obituary/orval-peters  - Accessed January 18, 2026 by Kevin Miller

Peters, Vada Ruth (Buerge)

July 12, 1926 - November 1, 2023

Vada Ruth Buerge Peters was born on July 12, 1926, to Ira and Hettie Blosser Buerge in Wauseon, Ohio. She peacefully went to meet her Savior on November 1, 2023, at the age of ninety-seven.

As the oldest of four children, she helped care for her younger siblings, forming lifelong skills in caring for others. She attended school in Pettisville, Ohio, and graduated high school in 1944. Upon confession of her sins, she was baptized into the Church of God in Christ, Mennonite, on March 7, 1939, and spent her life serving the Lord to the best of her ability.

In her youth, she took a correspondence course to learn nursing and moved to St. Petersburg, Florida to work in a hospital. While she was there, a young man asked for her hand, and she was married to Herbert Peters on June 27,1948, in Pettisville, Ohio, moving to Harrison, Michigan to begin married life. One son was born to this union.

Dad and Mom were led to mission work in Chihuahua, Mexico, and spent the years of 1954-1962 living there, operating a boarding house for native schoolchildren, and Mom became nurse and midwife for many people in need. They adopted a baby in Mexico and took him home to Michigan with them.

Mom lived a full life, helping Dad with the business and fostering more than fifty children over the years. She formed countless friendships and made an effort to keep up these relationships throughout life. A very difficult time for her was when their adopted son John was tragically killed as a young man.

In 1993 Dad and Mom moved to Murray, Kentucky, and adopted a former foster daughter at the same time. Their sunset years were spent having company, gardening, and sharing the little they had with anyone in need. They lived a simple life characterized by economy and practicality. Mom had a heart for the downtrodden and the wayward and was never afraid to say a word for the Lord. She often spoke her mind, but those close to her learned to recognize her soft heart beneath the surface.

After seventy-one years of marriage, Dad was called home to Glory on January 29, 2020. Mom filled her time alone with phone calls and crocheting many shawls to donate to the Church sewing circle, but her greatest desire was to meet her Jesus. We find comfort in knowing she is at rest.

Left to remember her are one son, August and Kathy Peters, Sedalia, Kentucky; one daughter, Leah and Michael Doud, Essexville, Michigan; nine grandchildren, twenty-one great-grandchildren, and four great-great-grandchildren; one sister, Shirley Buerge, Sarasota, Florida; one brother, Harold Buerge, Kernersville, North Carolina; four sisters-in-law: Edna Peters, Helen Peters, Ellyn Peters, all of Ithaca, Michigan; Donna and Kurt Fellows, Alma, Michigan; and many friends.

Preceding her in death were her husband, one son, parents, parents-in-law, one sister, six brothers-in-law, and four sisters-in-law.

The funeral service for Mrs. Peters will be held on Monday, November 6, 2023, at 10:30 a.m. at the Harmony Mennonite Church, 83 Honeybee Lane, Murray, Kentucky, with the burial to follow in the Harmony Mennonite Church Cemetery. Visitation will be held on Sunday, November 5, 2023, from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. at the Harmony Mennonite Church.

Expressions of sympathy can be made to the Harmony Mennonite Church, 83 Honeybee Lane, Murray, Kentucky 42071 or to Hickory Woods Senior Living Community, 84 Utterback Road, Murray, Kentucky 42071 in memory of Mrs. Vada Ruth Peters.
https://obits.jhchurchill.com/mrs-vada-peters  - Accessed January 18, 2026 by Kevin Miller

Peters, Willard H.

December 1, 1930 - August 21, 2022

Willard (Bill) H. Peters quietly passed away August 21, 2022 at the Mapleview Assisted Living home in Ithaca, Michigan, reaching the age of 91 years. Dad was born on December 1, 1930 to Cary and Flossie (Allman) Peters in Gratiot county Michigan. Dad grew up in the Harrison community and received his education at the Amble school. At the age of 13 he gave his heart to the Lord and was baptized into the Church of God in Christ Mennonite on March 12 1944. He remained faithful to the end. On July 24, 1955 he married Mary Koehn at Harrison MI, where they made their home for 23 years. In the spring of 1978 they moved to El Campo, TX where they farmed for two years. In the summer of 1980 they moved to Barron Wisconsin and purchased a small dairy farm. After the children married, they sold the dairy and relocated in the area. Our mom passed away in January of 2014 leaving dad very lonely for the next 8 ½ years. They shared 59 years together. Dad was a generous person, always ready to lend a hand or give whatever he had to anyone that needed it. Dad was a handyman, he enjoyed fixing up bicycles for his grandchildren. He also enjoyed working on small engines and other things for friends and neighbors. He was never afraid to try his hand at almost anything. Some other occupations were night watchman at Jeromes Turkey store and working at A J manufacturing in Bloomer Wisconsin. In his later years he enjoyed scrap metal recycling. Surviving are his son Kevin (Sheila) of Almena Wisconsin, Daughters Joleen (Larry) Kenagy and Gayla (Ezra) Kanagy both of Barron WI, 13 grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren, sisters Edna Peters, Helen Peters, and Donna (Kurt) fellows, all of Ithaca MI. 2 Sister-in-laws, Vada Peters of Murray, Kentucky, and Ellen Peters of Ithaca, MI. He was preceded in death by his wife Mary, grandson Kendall Kanagy, sister Hazel Holdeman, brothers Earl, Herbert, and Orval Peters, Sister-in-law Leona Peters, and Brother-in-law Paul Holdeman. Funeral services were held on Monday, August 22, 2022, at 10:30 A.M. at the Barron Mennonite Church in Barron, Wisconsin. Burial followed in the church cemetery.
https://www.burkhead-green-kilgo.com/obituaries/willard-h-peters  - Accessed January 18, 2026 by Kevin Miller

Plato, Melanie

January 28, 1945 - November 25, 2025

Melanie Plato went home to Christ her Savior on November 25, 2025.

Born on January 28, 1945, in Oisterwijk, The Netherlands, Melanie grew up in post–World War II Europe. In 1961 she met her future husband, Heinz, and soon moved to Germany to be near him. They married in 1966 and immigrated to the United States in 1968, beginning a life together filled with love and devotion.

Multitalented and dedicated, Melanie worked in clinical laboratory science, small business management, newspaper proofreading, and financial bookkeeping. She generously shared her skills by volunteering with numerous church organizations. Beyond her professional and volunteer work, Melanie was a gifted and humble artist, expressing her creativity through paint, pencil, ink, and stitch.

She is survived by her beloved husband, Heinz Plato; her children, Eric Plato (Sara) and Nicole; her cherished grandchildren, Liesel and Lieke Plato, Ro Lee (Nicky Robinson), and Elisabeth Lee; and her sister, Marie Louise Birmingham, along with her family.

Melanie will be remembered for her faith, her talents, and the love she had for her church and family.

The Celebration of Life will be held at 11 AM on January 17, 2026, at the Williamsburg Mennonite Church, 100 Maxton Lane, Williamsburg, Virginia 23188.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to: The Williamsburg Christian Retreat Center (www.wcrc.info), 9275 Barnes Road, Toano, Virginia 23618
https://www.vincentfh.com/obituaries/melanie-plato/#!/Obituary Accessed January 14, 2026 by Phil Kniss

Ramer, Cheryl Jean Miller

April 2, 1953 — January 5, 2026

Cheryl Jean Miller Ramer was born April 2, 1953 in Bedford Heights, OH, the daughter of Paul and Edna (Guth) Miller, crediting them with instilling values of faith and ethics. As the oldest of 5 siblings, she was often depended on for child-care at a young age partly due to her mother’s struggle with mental illness. During these years Cheryl developed organizational skills along with taking responsibility that served her (mostly!) well all through life.

She graduated from Central Christian High School in Kidron, Ohio, Hesston College and Tabor College in Kansas. Cheryl accepted Jesus as her savior, was baptized into the Mennonite Church and remained a lifelong member. On December 27, 1975 Cheryl was united in marriage to Heber Ramer in Bedford Heights, Ohio. Ten days before her death she was delighted to celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary which had become a major goal in the last months.

Cheryl was a social worker at Child Protective Services in Newton, Kansas, at Halstead Hospital in Halstead, Kansas, and at Harry Hynes Hospice in Wichita, Kansas. She was the consummate advocate for her clients, often roping Heber into special after-hours projects in order to more fully meet the needs of clients. She loved planning events and teaming up with friends to host a fun time.

They lived in Hesston, Kansas and Harper, Kansas while raising their children with persistent creativity and interest in their activities. About 4 years ago they moved to Iowa as her lifestyle required evolving adaptations. Cheryl was a current member of West Union Mennonite Church and was so comforted that they received her for “who she was deep down” and not just “some old sick lady who can’t help with anything”.

She found great satisfaction in watching children learn and grow, reminding her of the hope that was a significant part of her faith. Often when situations seemed to require an impossible decision, she chose the option that developed hope for the persons involved. She usually cheered for the underdog.

Cheryl made relative peace with her mortality early on in the 8.5 years she lived with the recurrence of cancer, but a growing list of ailments made daily tasks increasingly difficult and near the end her ability to enjoy activities was starting to wane.

As her health deteriorated, she focused on seizing opportunities for celebrating God’s big and small mercies of life. Big ones included visiting her 50th State (Hawaii!), hauling her walker up the Great Wall of China, and numerous family gatherings. Small ones included things like volunteering at Crowded Closet, while still able, and the countless smiles, birds, snacks, and songs that filled her heart.

Cheryl passed away Monday, January 5, 2026 at her home in rural Parnell at the age of 72 years. Left to live with her absence are her husband Heber, daughter Rachelle of Fort Collins, Colorado, son, Nathan (Erin) of rural Parnell, a brother Terry (Ann) Miller of Coshocton, Ohio, sisters, Julie Cressman of Las Vegas Nevada and Patti (Bob) Wilson of Newark, Delaware, brother-in-law, Dave Wiegand of Las Vegas and the many friends she was so grateful for. Cheryl was preceded in death by her parents, sister, Karen Weigand and brother-in-law, Don Cressman.

A Memorial Service will be held 11:00 am Saturday, January 17, 2026, at West Union Mennonite Church rural Parnell, with lunch and sharing to follow. Pastor John David Kenney will officiate. There will be no visitation.

A memorial fund has been established for Crooked Creek Christian Camp or Mennonite Central Committee. Powell Funeral Home and Cremation Service in Wellman is caring for Cheryl and her family. Messages and tributes may be sent to the family at www.powellfuneralhomes.com
https://www.powellfuneralhomes.com/obituaries/cheryl-ramer
Accessed January 12, 2026 by Phil Kniss


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