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.
2018
G
Gable, Cathy J., 63, of Orrville, Wayne Co., OH died October 21, 2018 at the same place. She was born September 27, 1955 at Dalton, Wayne Co., OH to Chester W. and M. Lorene (Smith) Gable.
Surviving are her father; sister, Barbara (Ron) Steiner; brother, Gary W. Gable; and stepmother, Pauline Gable.
Her mother preceded her in death.
Memorial services were held October 25, 2018 at Orrville Mennonite Church, Orrville, OH with burial in Oak Grove Mennonite Church Cemetery, Smithville, Wayne Co., OH.
Garman, Henry H., 81, of Stevens, passed away on Thursday, July 12, 2018, at Fairmount Homes.
He was born in W. Earl Twp. to the late Christian S. and Laura E. (Hollinger) Garman and was the husband of Katie N. (Good) Garman with whom he shared 18 years of marriage.
He was a member of Meadow Valley Mennonite Church.
Henry was a farmer and truck driver.
In addition to his wife, Henry is survived by 5 sons, Eugene, husband of Elaine Garman of Schuylkill Haven, Clair, husband of Shirley Garman of Pine Grove, Lester, husband of Edna Mae Garman, Henry Garman, Jr., both of New Bloomfield, Wilmer, husband of Mary Garman of Spencer, WI; a daughter, Laura, wife of Joel Fox of Landisburg; 37 grandchildren, 39 great-grandchildren and a brother, Lloyd H., husband of Luella Garman of Myerstown.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his first wife, Edna M. (Newswanger) Garman in 1997 and a grandson.
A viewing will be held on Monday, July 16, 2018, from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 PM at the Martindale Mennonite Fellowship Center, 352 Martindale Road, Ephrata. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, July 17, 2018, at 8:45 AM, at the Martindale Mennonite Fellowship Center with further services at 9:30 AM at the Meadow Valley Mennonite Church, 200 Meadow Valley Rd., Ephrata, with Bishop Melvin Martin officiating. Interment will take place in the church cemetery.
Kindly omit flowers.
Gehman, Anna D. Kulp, 96, of Souderton, Montgomery Co., PA died September 30, 2018 at the same place. She was born June 19, 1922 at Harleysville, Montgomery Co., PA to Alvin W. and Mamie Kulp. On March 4, 1944 she was married to Harley B. Gehman, who was born November 25, 1922 and survives.
Surviving are children, Marilyn Zook and husband Dave; Louise O'Connell and husband Jim; and Elaine Gehman; four grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren.
A son, Allen Gehman, and siblings, Abram Kulp (infant brother); Alma Derstine; Pearl Kulp; Roland Kulp; Linnaeus Kulp; Ernest Delp (step sibling); and Verna Alderfer (step sibling) preceded her in death.
Memorial services were held October 6, 2018 at Souderton Mennonite Homes, Souderton, PA, with burial in Salford Mennonite Church Cemetery, Harleysville, PA .
Gehman, Kathryn Marie Garber, 93, passed away peacefully on Sunday, November 18, 2018 at the Mennonite Home, Lancaster, PA. She was preceded in death by her husband, David Gehman on May 27, 2014. Kathryn is survived by her 6 children: Glen (Nancy) Gehman of Silver Spring, MD; Linda Gehman (Titus) Peachey of Lancaster, PA; Daniel (Jennifer) Gehman of Millersville, PA; Dawn (Dale) Horst of Lebanon, PA; Lois (Peter) Omonde of Washington, NC; June (Ethan) Gehman-Deane of Lancaster, PA. She was grandmother to Beth, Rachel, Ryan, Deanne, Dwight, Derek, Andrew, Riziki, Rebecca, Seth, and Hannah; and 8 great-grandchildren.
Kathryn was born on August 5, 1925 near Akron, PA, daughter of Joseph and Sarah (Hess) Garber. She was the last surviving sibling of 9 children. Kathryn loved being with family and friends, and hosted many wonderful meals in her home. She also loved flowers and caring for children in Sunday school and nursery programs.
Kathryn was a member at East Chestnut Street Mennonite Church. She and her husband David volunteered with many local agencies, and enjoyed hosting international students and guests in their home. They also traveled to Canada, Chile, Germany, Japan, Laos, Nicaragua, and Thailand to visit their children, as well as some of their international guests.
Funeral services will be held at East Chestnut Street Mennonite Church, 432 E. Chestnut St., Lancaster, on Saturday, November 24, 2018, 11:00 a.m. A viewing will be held at East Chestnut Street Mennonite Church, Friday, November 23, 2018, 6-8 p.m. and Saturday, 10-11 a.m. Burial will be at Metzler's Mennonite Cemetery.
Geib, Anna G. Leaman, 91, formerly of Manor Township, passed away peacefully on Tuesday evening, February 13, 2018 at the Mennonite Home, Lancaster, where she resided since 2004. Her husband, the late Edgar N. Geib, died in 2010. They were married sixty-two years at the time of his death.
Born November 9, 1926 in East Lampeter Twp., she was the daughter of the late Sanford D. and Mary (Groff) Leaman.
She attended the Lyndon Mennonite Church, Lancaster.
She will be lovingly missed by her five children; James M. Geib, husband of Betty, of Pryor, OK, Ruth E., wife of Earl Harshbarger, of Dagmar, MT, Paul N. Geib, husband of Debra, of Columbia, PA, David R. Geib, husband of Linda , of Dagmar, MT, Daniel R. Geib, husband of Cheryl, of Millersville, PA; 20 grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren; six siblings; Chester Leaman, Paul Leaman, Sanford Leaman, Miriam Segerstrom, Ruth Nissley and Irene Shenk. She was also preceded in death by four children; John E., Mary Ann and infant, Rhoda M. Geib and a brother; Daniel G. Leaman.
Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend the funeral from the New Danville Mennonite Church, 103 Marticville Road, Lancaster, PA 17603 on Monday morning, February 19, 2018 at 10 a.m. Interment will be held in the adjoining church cemetery. There will be a viewing held at the New Danville Mennonite Church on Sunday evening between 6-8 p.m. and again on Monday morning between 9-10 a.m. Kindly omit flowers. Memorial Remembrances can be made in Anna's memory to the Mennonite Home Communities Benevolent Care Fund, 1520 Harrisburg Pike, Lancaster, PA 17601.
Geiser, Grace A. Steiner, 106, of Orrville, Wayne Co., OH died September 29, 2018 at the same place following period of declining health. She was born April 11, 1912 at Dalton, Wayne Co., OH to Harry and Ardiz (Wertz) Steiner. On November 17, 1934 she was married to Bennet W. Geiser, who died in 2013.
Surviving are children, Leonard (Linea, deceased) Geiser, Lowell (Vicki) Geiser, Arlene (Dave) Lehman, Marlene (Dan) Fossum, Wendell Schloneger (son-in-law); 12 grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren, two great-great-grandchildren.
A granddaughter, Elaine Schloneger, and siblings, Margaret Swegheimer, Catherine Gerber, Fred Steiner, Myron Steiner, Warren Steiner, Howard Steiner and Kenneth Steiner preceded her in death.
She was formerly the owner of Elaine's Dress Shop and the Orrville Coin Laundromats, and was also the Manager at Orrville MCC Thrift Shop. She was a member of Orrville Mennonite Church. She enjoyed gardening, reading, word puzzles, and spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren.
Memorial services were held October 27, 2018 at Orrville Mennonite Church, Orrville, OH
George, Joyce Ethel Roach, 83, of Denver, CO died January 17, 2018 at the same place. She was born November 22, 1934 at Bedford, Indiana to William Roach and Effie (Eggers) Roach Bolton Dodd. On December 13, 1952 at Bedford, Indiana
she was married to Donald Ray George, who is deceased.
Surviving are children, Robert George, Randy (Donna) George, and David (Jane) George; four grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, and a sister, Mary Louise Gore.
Twelve siblings preceded her in death.
Memorial services were held January 22, 2018 at First Mennonite Church, Denver, CO.
Gingerich, Andrew F.
August 13, 1945 - January 16, 2018
Andrew F. Gingerich, age 72, of New Paris, died at 3:15 a.m., Tuesday, January 16, 2018, at Miller's Merry Manor, Wakarusa, after an extended illness. He was born August 13, 1945 in Portland, IN to Fred E. and Katie J. (Kauffman) Gingerich. He was a member of the Old Order Amish Church. On April 18, 1968 he married Susie Y. Hochstetler in New Glarus, WI. Andrew and his family moved to the Nappanee area in 1997 from Texas.
He is survived by his wife, Susie Gingerich; children, Miriam A. (David) Yoder, Topeka, Paul A. Gingerich, Warsaw, Robert A. (Barbara) Gingerich, Bremen, Andrew (Jinky) Gingerich, Jr., Central City, KY, Arlene A. (Devon) Borkholder, Warsaw, Marie A. (Darrell) Schwartz, Topeka, Christopher A. (Marlene) Gingerich, New Paris, Karen A. Gingerich, Warsaw, Elder Cantarero, Elkhart, Maria Rose Gingerich, Bluffton, Alex D. Gingerich and Danny R. Gingerich, both of Elkhart, Selena D. Gingerich, Jena S. Gingerich, and Clara I. Gingerich, all at home; 37 grandchildren; 6 great-grandchildren; brothers, Chris (Linda) Gingerich, OH, Eli (Katie) Gingerich, WI, Fred (Miriam) Gingerich, Jr., CO, Chester (Phoebe) Gingerich, MN; sister, Elizabeth (William) Plank, UT; and sister-in-laws, Clara Byler, VA, and Linda Gingerich, OH. He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Dan and Joe Gingerich; and a sister, Millie Byler.
Family and friends may call after 2 p.m., Thursday, January 18, 2018 and all day Friday, January 19th at Lamar Borkholder residence (20736 C.R. 50, New Paris). Funeral services will begin at 9:30 a.m., Saturday, January 20th, also at the Borkholder residence. Home Ministry of the Old Order Amish Church will officiate. Burial will be in West Union Center Amish Cemetery.
Arrangements are with Thompson-Lengacher & Yoder Funeral Home, Nappanee.
Gingerich, Ray C., 84, of Harrisonburg, VA died June 17, 2018 at the same place from metatastic prostrate cancer.
He was born August 26, 1933 at Kalona, Iowa to Chris A. and Susie Anna (Miller) Gingerich. Chris was born September 12, 1904 and Susie was born December 9, 1906.
On August 26, 1956 at Kalona, Iowa he was married to Wilma Jean Beachy, who was born October 22, 1934 and survives.
Surviving are children, James (Barbara) Nelson Gingerich; John Gingerich (Eva Mengelkoch); André Gingerich (Cathy) Stoner; and Pierre (Lori) Gingerich-Boberg; eight grandchildren, and two sisters, Clara Miller (Harley) and Esther Yoder (Jake).
See separate obituary for details: missionary in Luxembourg through Eastern Mennonite Board of Missions, 1961-68; professor of theology and ethics at Eastern Mennonite University, 1977-2004
Memorial services were held June 29, 2018 at Community Mennonite Church, Harrisonburg, VA and the body was cremated.
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Gingerich, Ray
Aug. 26, 1933-June 17,2018
Ray Gingerich died on June 17, 2018, after a long struggle with metastatic prostate cancer. Ray was born to Amish parents, Chris and Susie Anna (Miller) Gingerich, near Kalona, Iowa, on Aug. 26, 1933. Ray was reared in a frugal, hardworking, and conscientious extended family; his Conservative Mennonite maternal grandparents lived in an attached Daadi Haus.
By the time Ray was 16, his parents had joined the recently established Beachy Amish Church, where he was baptized. When he was 19, Ray served as leader of the national Beachy Amish youth organization.
Ray attended school through the eighth grade and then spent his adolescence working on the prosperous family farm. He relished all aspects of farming, but was exposed to a larger world when he was drafted into 1-W (alternative military) service during the Korean War. He was assigned to work at Lancaster General Hospital, and subsequently volunteered for a summer teaching Bible school in the Bronx and Brooklyn, which awakened a curiosity that led him to pursue college education.
On Aug. 26, 1956, he married Wilma Beachy, also of Kalona. One week after they married, Ray and Wilma left for Eastern Mennonite College (now University) in Harrisonburg, Va. After Ray completed college and an additional year at Eastern Mennonite Seminary, they headed to Luxembourg as missionaries under Eastern Mennonite Board of Missions, now with two-year-old twin sons in tow. Ray and Wilma would be blessed with two more sons during their seven years in Luxembourg (1961–68), where Ray pastored a small Mennonite congregation and started a Christian bookstore. Significant questions about mission and the way of Jesus emerged through his experiences and ecumenical encounters in postwar (and increasingly post-Christendom) Europe.
After returning from Europe, Ray continued his studies, at Associated (now Anabaptist) Mennonite Biblical Seminary in Elkhart, Ind. Harboring deep doubts about a traditional doctrinally framed Christian faith, his engagement there with Anabaptist peace theology and his interactions with missionaries returning from interreligious and cross-cultural settings led to what he called a “second conversion.”
Ray continued doctoral studies in historical theology at Vanderbilt University, in Nashville, Tenn. His dissertation explored the mission impulse of the 16th-century Anabaptist movement.
In 1977, Ray began teaching at EMU in the Department of Bible and Religion. He helped develop a peace and justice minor at the college and for years team-taught with valued colleagues, Vernon Jantzi and Titus Bender. These courses had a deep impact on many students, who went on to serve the church and their communities.
Ray also regularly taught courses at EMS. For many years, Ray was faculty sponsor for an active peace fellowship on campus. He helped recruit faculty and envision programs that developed into the Center for Justice and Peacebuilding. He has also provided critical support for the Center for Interfaith Engagement. After concluding his teaching career, Ray helped found the Anabaptist Center of Religion and Society, which among other things has gathered and shared the personal and faith stories of numerous teachers and elders in the church.
For more than 25 years, Ray and Wilma have been active participants in small group and congregational life at Community Mennonite Church in Harrisonburg, Va.
Preceding Ray in death are his parents, Chris and Susie Anna (Miller) Gingerich, and his older sister, Mary (Lewis) Swantz. Surviving him are his wife of 61 years, Wilma Jean Gingerich (daughter of Andy and Lizzie Beachy); sisters, Clara (Harley) Miller and Esther (Jacob) Yoder; four sons and eight grandchildren: James (Barbara) Nelson Gingerich with children, Jonathan Nelson Gingerich (Jyoti Bock) and Daniel Nelson Gingerich (Meagan Parisi); John Gingerich (Eva Mengelkoch); André Gingerich (Cathy) Stoner with children, Tobias (Cecilia) Gingerich Pessoa, Miriam, Matthew, and Martin Stoner; and Pierre (Lori) Gingerich-Boberg with children, Simone and Josette Gingerich-Boberg.
Visitation will be Thursday, June 28, 6 to 8 p.m. at Community Mennonite Church, 70 S. High St. Harrisonburg, Va. A memorial service will be held at Community Mennonite Church in Harrisonburg on Friday, June 29, at 11 a.m. with a fellowship meal and sharing following.
Gingrich, John Musser, 93, of Lancaster, Lancaster Co., PA died March 22, 2018 at the same place. He was born January 1, 1925 at East Hempfield Twp., Lancaster Co., PA to Edison and Mary Gingrich. On March 15, 1947 he was married to Blanche E. Kreider, who was born March 3, 1927 and died September 25, 2014.
John is survived by six children; Donald Gingrich, married to Esther Wenger, of Lancaster, Ann Martin, married to Richard, of Mount Joy, David Gingrich, married to Marian Weaver, of Mountville, Nelson Gingrich (deceased), married to Yvonne Bomberger Buckwalter, Kenneth Gingrich, of Mount Joy, Sharon Umble, married to Freddie, of New Holland and Beverly Kerry, married to Larry, of Clemmons, NC.
Also surviving are 15 grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren, two great-great-grandchildren, and four siblings; Mary Elizabeth Gingrich, of Landisville, Paul Gingrich, of Indiana, Martha Sangree, of Mountville and James Gingrich, married to Joan, of Lititz.
A son, Nelson Gingrich preceded him in death.
Memorial services were held March 31, 2018 at Landisville Mennonite Church, Landisville, Lancaster Co., PA with burial in the adjoining cemetery.
Glanzer, Lillian Clara Tieszen, 100, of Marion, SD died April 3, 2018 at Freeman, SD. She was born February 5, 1918 at Marion, SD to Dr. Isaac P. and Katie (Graber) Tieszen. On March 28, 1937 she was married to Reuben E. Glanzer, who is deceased.
Surviving are children, Joanne Nickel, Janet (Jerry) Parnell, Dr. Elroy (Maureen) Glanzer, Arden (Nola) Glanzer, LaDean Silberhorn, Dr. Loren (Janice) Glanzer; 19 grandchildren, 47 great-grandchildren, and 12 great-great-grandchildren.
Memorial services were held April 16, 2018 at Salem-Zion Mennonite Church, Freeman, SD with burial in the adjoining cemetery.
Gleysteen, Barbara Detweiler
Oct. 2, 1928 - June 13, 2018
GOSHEN - Barbara Gleysteen, 89, died Wednesday, June 13, 2018, at Greencroft Goshen Healthcare.
She was born Oct. 2, 1928, in Thomas, Oklahoma, to Joseph and Polly (Swartzendruber) Detweiler.
On June 30, 1955, she married Jan Gleysteen in Newton, Kansas.
She is survived by her husband; a daughter, Linda (Bob Boltz) Gleysteen, Aurora, Illinois; a son, David (Laura Bruno) Gleysteen, Kalamazoo, Michigan; grandchildren, Alexia (Matt Dennin) Gleysteen and Ian Boltz; a sister, Lola Miller, Denver, Colorado; and a brother, Joe Detweiler, Newton, Kansas.
A memorial service will be held on July 21 at a location to be announced.
Memorial gifts may be made to Habitat for Humanity or Mennonite Central Committee.
Yoder-Culp Funeral Home is assisting with arrangements.
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Gleysteen, Barbara Detweiler, 89, of Goshen, Elkhart Co., IN died June 13, 2018 at the same place. She was born October 2, 1928 at Thomas, Oklahoma to Joseph and Polly (Swartzendruber) Detweiler. On June 30, 1955 at Newton, Harvey Co., KS she was married to Jan Gleysteen, who survives.
Surviving are children, Linda (Bob Boltz) Gleysteen, Aurora, Illinois; and David (Laura Bruno) Gleysteen, Kalamazoo, Michigan; two grandchildren, a sister, Lola Miller, Denver, Colorado; and a brother, Joe Detweiler, Newton, Kansas.
A brother, James Detweiler preceded her in death.
Barbara was a teacher and a homemaker. After graduating from Goshen College, she taught Home Economics and English in Kalona, Iowa and Scottdale, Pennsylvania. She also taught English as a second language in her home. She was a partner in TourMagination. Her role was bookkeeper and secretary. She served on the Board of Directors for Scottdale Federal Mennonite Credit Union. She hosted many people from around the world in her home. In 1995 she and Jan moved to Goshen.
Memorial services were held July 21, 2018 at Goshen.
Glick, Anna S. Stoltzfus - Revised service day Anna S. Glick, 71 of Woodstown, NJ, went to be with the Lord on Monday, February 19, 2018. She was born on July 22, 1946, in Morgantown, PA to Henry U. and the late Mary Stoltzfus.
She left behind and will be greatly missed by her husband, Abner, of 51 years, and 5 children. Mary (Richard) Miller, Woodstown, NJ, Henry (Becky) Glick, Spencer, WI, David (Aurelia) Glick, Hayward, WI, Hannah (fiance Jason Burkholder) Glick, Spencer, WI, Allen (Judith) Glick, Elmer, NJ. She is also survived by 18 grandchildren, 4 brothers, and 5 sisters. John (Linda) Stoltzfus, Lewisburg, PA, Priscilla (Benuel) Stoltzfus, Morgantown, PA, Jacob (Sylvia) Stoltzfus, Deansboro, NY, Linda (Jonothan) Stoltzfus, Hooversville, PA, Henry (Anna) Stoltzfus, Somerset, PA, Elsie (Jonas) Stoltzfus, Vernon, NY, Jemima (Daniel) Stoltzfus, Munnsville, NY, Luke (RuthAnn) Stoltzfus, Waterville, NY, and Mary S. Stoltzfus (of the home).
She was preceded in death by a daughter, (Martha), her mother, (Mary), a brother, (Chester) and a granddaughter, (Nicole).
The viewing will be held at the Salem County Mennonite Church, 256 Pecks Corner - Cohansey Rd., Bridgeton, NJ, on Friday, February 23 from 2 - 4 PM and from 6 - 8 PM. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, February 24 at 10:30 a.m. At the Hardingville Bible Church, 979 Whig Lane, Monroeville, NJ Old GPS address is 284 Whig Lane, Monroeville, NJ. H.T.
Glick, John L., 82, of Smoketown, PA died December 8, 2018 at Lancaster, Lancaster Co., PA after suffering a massive stroke. He was born December 14, 1935 at Lancaster, to Jacob A. and Katie (Smoker) Glick, Sr. On September 17, 1955 he was married to Mary K. Byers, who was born February 3, 1934 and survives.
Surviving are a daughter, Cindy A (Terry) Blankenship; three grandchildren, two great-grandchildren; and three brothers, Melvin Glick, David (Sue) Glick, and Paul (Pinky) Glick.
Two sons, J. Scott Glick and Kirk E. Glick and siblings, Norman Glick, Edna Glick Beiler, and Jacob Glick, Jr. preceded him in death.
Memorial services were held December 13, 2018 at Forest Hills Mennonite Church, Leola, Lancaster Co., PA with burial in Mellinger Mennonite Cemetery, Lancaster, PA.
Good, Elsie H. Good, 95, of Ephrata, entered into rest at home on Saturday, June 2, 2018.
She was born in Brecknock Twp., the daughter of the late Eli and Hettie (Hurst) Good and was the wife of the late Raymond R. Good who passed away in 2011.
Elsie was a member of Denver Mennonite Church. She was a homemaker.
Elsie is survived by 4 sons, Jerry Good of Narvon, Clarence, husband of Victoria (Auker) Good of Akron, Nevin, husband of Diane (Light) Good of New Holland, Bruce, husband of Joyce (Eberly) Good of Fredricksburg; 4 daughters, Joyce, wife of the late Leonard Martin of New Holland, Hettie, wife of John Zimmerman of Red Run, Lillie Good of Ephrata, Sally Good of New Holland; 24 grandchildren; 41 great-grandchildren; 21 great-great-grandchildren and a sister, Maggie High of Lititz..
In addition to her husband and parents, she was preceded in death by 5 sons, John, Barry Lamar, Eli, Dallas Paul, Jay Good; 2 daughters, Barbara, Elsie Fay Good; a grandson; a brother, Mahlon Good and 5 sisters, Emma Messner, Viola Good, Katie High, Alice Zimmerman and Anna Mary Musser.
A viewing will be held on Tuesday, June 5th, 2018, from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 PM at Denver Mennonite Church, 95 Monroe Street Denver. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday June 6, 2018 at 9:30 AM at the church. Interment will take place in the adjoining church cemetery.
Kindly omit flowers.
Arrangements by Stradling Funeral Homes, Inc. Akron/Ephrata
Good, Norman B., Jr., 89, of Ephrata, PA, passed away on Monday, January 8, 2018, at Ephrata Manor. He was born in Ephrata on December 2, 1928 to Norman B. Good, Sr. and Bertha (Brubaker) Good.
Norman was preceded in death by his parents and his spouse, Emma (Martin) Good.
Eight children survive Norman: Alton W. Good husband of Jane (Shirker) Good of Lebanon, PA, Clifford W. Good husband of Yvonne (Hemperly) Good of Annville, PA, Curvin W. Good husband of Joy (Keith) Good of Denver, PA, Thelma (Good) Martin wife of Clarence H. Martin of Lititz, PA, Wilmer W. Good husband of Elaine (Stoudt) Good of Ephrata, PA, Janet (Good) Hughes, wife of Hudson R. Hughes of Hummelstown, PA, Lois (Good) Proudfoot wife of Estes Proudfoot of Elverson, PA, and Norman W. Good, husband of Jamie (Frank) Good, of Stevens, PA.
Also surviving are three brothers: Harlan, Clarence, and Earl Good; one sister: Mildred, wife of Bill Steinmetz; 21 grandchildren; and 26 great-grandchildren.
Norman drove trucks for many years, built interiors for yachts, and was one of the early users of Super-8 movie cameras.
He and his wife Emma loved to travel with a multi-month trip to Alaska being the high point.
Friends will be received at Gravenor Home For Funerals, 100 W. Main St., Ephrata, PA 17522 from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. on Thurs., Jan. 11, 2018. Funeral services will follow at 11 a.m. with Bishop Earl R. Martin of Faith Mennonite Fellowship officiating. Interment will follow at Indiantown Mennonite Cemetery.
Good, Thelma Marie Blosser, 90, of Harrisonburg, passed away Aug. 26, 2018, at Brunk House of the Virginia Mennonite Retirement Community. Mrs. Good was born Sept. 26, 1927, in Rockingham County and was the daughter of the late Dan J. and Grace Pearl Heatwole Blosser.
She was a vibrant part of her husband's business, Emory J. Good Plumbing and Heating. Many will remember her answering phones and assisting customers over the years. She was a homemaker and spent many hours gardening, canning, and freezing for her family. She was a member of Weavers Mennonite Church.
On Sept. 26, 1947, she married Emory J. Good, who preceded her in death Oct. 21, 2006.
Surviving are three children Donald L. Good and wife, Diane, of Telford, Pa., Joyce (Good) Burkholder and husband, Rodney, and Ray L. Good and wife, Sandi, all of Harrisonburg; six grandchildren, Sondra (Brad) Alderfer, Stephanie (Brandon) Rittenhouse and Sheldon C. Good (Jennifer Svetlik) of Pennsylvania, Dustin Good and Darren Good of Harrisonburg and Leona Good of Texas; and four great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by a brother and sister-in-law, Sanford and Mabellee Blosser.
Pastors Eric Martin and Roy Good will conduct a memorial service Saturday, Sept. 1, 2018, at 11 a.m. at Strite Auditorium. Friends may greet the family prior to the service from 10 a.m. until 11 a.m.
Burial will be private at Weavers Cemetery with Pastor Phil Kanagy officiating.
The casket will remain closed.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the VMRC Compassion Endowment Fund, 1491 Virginia Ave., Harrisonburg, VA 22802.
Online condolences or memories may be left for the family at www.McMullenfh.com. Arrangements are by McMullen Funeral Home, Harrisonburg.
Good, Vernon Andrew
Aug. 20, 1925 - Oct. 30, 2018
HARRISONBURG — Vernon Andrew Good, 93, of 1501 Virginia Ave., Apt. 238, died Tuesday (Oct. 30, 2018). Born Aug. 20, 1925, in Elida, Ohio, he was a son of John and Ruth (Berry) Good.
He was a life-long painter and a member of McGaheysville Mennonite Church.
Vernon was preceded in death by a son, Darrell J. Good; three infant children; a brother, Ira Good; and a sister, Grace Good.
Surviving are his wife of 69 years, Hazel (Heatwole) Good; a son, James Lee Good and wife, Karron, of Madison; a former daughter-in-law, Anna (Slabaugh) Good Sensenig and husband, Luke, of New Holland, Pa.; two grandchildren, Cynthia Renee Dean and husband, Stuart, and James Kevin Good and wife, Sarah; eight great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.
A funeral service will be held at 3 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 4, in Pike Mennonite Church with burial in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends in the church one hour prior to the service.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Christian Aid Ministries, P.O. Box 360, Berlin, OH 44610.
Goshow, Janet L. Swartley, 74, of Perkasie, PA died August 1, 2018. She was born January 28, 1944 at Sellersville, PA to William and Valeria (Landes) Swartley. On September 14, 1963 she was married to John M. Goshow, who was born June 9, 1943 and survives.
Surviving are children, Jeffrey M. Goshow & wife, Tonya; Jennifer G. Lacher & husband, Chad; and Jessica A. Shenk & husband, Jeremy; ten grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren; and siblings, Carol Longacre & husband, Henry; Elizabeth "Betsy" Heavener & husband, Keith; and William Swartley & wife, Susie.
Memorial services were held August 5, 2018 at Blooming Glen Mennonite Church, Blooming Glen, PA with burial in the adjoining cemetery.
Graber, Anna J. Borkholder
Oct. 1, 1923 - Aug. 16, 2018
LAGRANGE - Anna J. Graber, 94, of LaGrange, died Thursday, Aug. 16, 2018.
She was born Oct. 1, 1923, to John J. and Fannie Borkholder.
She married Daniel H. Graber; he died.
Surviving are son John Graber; stepsons Ezra, Henry, Alvin, Marvin and Neal Graber; stepdaughters Alma Bontrager, Mary Miller and Orpha Schrock; 15 grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and sisters Laura and Edna Miller.
She was preceded in death by her husband; parents; daughter Rosa Frye; four brothers, Andrew, Isaac, Nathaniel and Ira Borkholder; and two sisters, Clara Borkholder and Mary Schrock.
Visitation will be after 1 p.m. Friday, Aug. 17, and all day Saturday, Aug. 18, at the John Graber residence, 5415 W. C.R. 100N, LaGrange.
Funeral services will be at 1 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 19, also at the John Graber residence.
Burial will be in Mast Cemetery, LaGrange.
Miller-Stewart Funeral Home, Middlebury, is handling the arrangements
Graber, Irma A. Lantz Haarer Gingerich
March 23, 1925 - April 1, 2018
GOSHEN - Irma A. (Haarer) Graber, 93, of Goshen, died Sunday, April 1.
She was born March 23, 1925, to Ezra and Ina Lantz.
She married Aldine Haarer. He died March 10, 1973. She married Joe J. Gingerich; he died Jan. 10, 1999. She married Ezra Graber; he died Feb. 4, 2015.
Surviving are sons James and Dennis Haarer; a daughter-in-law, Patricia Haarer; six grandchildren; two stepdaughters, Wanda Bontrager and Judy Payne; four stepsons, Merlin and Don Graber, Harold and Brian Gingerich; two brothers, Robert and Glendon Lantz; and sister Gladys Miller.
She was preceded in death by her parents, a son, Richard Haarer, and her former husbands.
Visitation will be from 5 - 8 p.m. Tuesday April 3, at Miller-Stewart Funeral Home, Middlebury.
Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Wednesday, April 4, also at the funeral home.
Burial will be in Shore Cemetery, Shipshewana.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the Gideons.
Graber, Joseph A.
Nov. 30, 1921 - Aug. 28, 2018
WHITE PIGEON, Mich. — Joseph A. Graber, 96, of White Pigeon, died peacefully at 5:45 a.m.Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2018, at his residence.
He was born Nov. 30, 1921, in Middlebury, to Abraham and Bena (Roth) Graber.
On Aug. 21, 1948, in Clinton Brick Mennonite Church, he married Cora Miller; she survives.
Survivors in addition to his wife are four daughters, Linda (Dan) Peterson of Granger, Lorraine (Neal) Mishler of Waynesboro, Pennsylvania, LuAnne (Kerry) Hart of Elwood City, Pennsylvania, Lois (Mike) Featherstone of Constantine; two sons, Lowell (LaDonna) Graber of White Pigeon and Lester (Kristal) Graber of Washington, D.C.; 18 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; two sisters, Esther (Glen) Riegsecker of Middlebury and Ruby (Floyd) Miller of White Pigeon; and brother Sam (Adeline) Graber of Goshen.
He was preceded in death by his parents, five brothers, Allen Graber, Ezra Graber, Ervin Graber, Floyd Graber, and Dan Graber.
He was a member of Clinton Brick Church and a retired farmer.
Joe was a World War II Army veteran who received a Purple Heart from the Pacific Theater.
He was proud to earn his general education diploma (GED) at the age of 65.
Joe and Cora traveled to many countries after retiring, and enjoyed many new sites and cultures.
They lived in their farmhouse for 65 years and enjoyed 70 years of marriage.
Visitation will be from 2 - 4 and 6 - 8 p.m. Friday, Aug. 31, at Miller-Stewart Funeral Home, 1003 S. Main St., Middlebury.
Family and friends will gather at Clinton Brick Cemetery for a 10 a.m. graveside service Saturday, Sept. 1.
A memorial service will follow at 11 a.m. at Clinton Brick Church.
Services will be conducted by Pastor Joe Graber, a grandson.
Memorials may be given to Clinton Brick Church.
Graybill, J. Lester, 86, of New Holland, died April 27 at Lancaster General Hospital.
Lester was a retired Mennonite minister. He was pastor of Orrville (Ohio) Mennonite Church from 1958 to 1979 and Forest Hills Mennonite Church in Leola from 1979 to 1997. From 1997 to 2002, Lester was the first chaplain at Garden Spot Village in New Holland.
Lester served Ohio Mennonite Conference and Atlantic Coast Mennonite Conference (ACC) in a variety of roles. He was part of the ACC leadership committee and served a year as conference moderator.
Lester and his wife, Eileen Rutt Graybill, were married 62 years. The family includes three children and two grandchildren: Dave and his wife, Brenda Martin; Beth, her husband, Stock Weinstock, and her son, Julian Graybill Brubaker; and John, his wife, Vineeta Gupta, and their daughter, Nikeeta Gupta Graybill.
Lester is also survived by a sister, Fern Brunner.
Lester was born in Juniata County in 1931. He was the son of the late John and Bertha Graybill. The family moved to Elizabethtown when he was in seventh grade.
Lester graduated from Elizabethtown High School in 1949. He earned bachelor's degrees in Bible and education from Goshen (Ind.) College in 1954 and 1955.
In August of 1955 he married Eileen, the daughter of J.L. and Mary Rutt, missionaries to Argentina.
Lester earned a bachelor of divinity degree from Goshen Biblical Seminary (now Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary) in 1958. In 1969, during a leave of absence from the Orrville church, he earned a master of theology from Eastern Baptist Seminary (now Palmer Seminary) in suburban Philadelphia.
Church members remember Lester as a gifted and effective Bible teacher. Friends describe him as a person who encouraged others and could get along with a wide range of people. His family remembers him as a loving husband, brother, father, grandpa and uncle.
Lester was an avid reader and owned hundreds of books. He and Eileen traveled together to Argentina, Europe, the Middle East and many locations in North America.
A viewing will be held 6-8 p.m. Friday (May 4) at Akron Mennonite Church, 1311 Diamond St., Akron, where Lester was a member. A memorial service will be held 4 p.m. Saturday (May 5) at the church.
In lieu of flowers, friends are encouraged to contribute to Mennonite Mission Network, PO Box 370, Elkhart, IN 46515-0370, or the Benevolent Fund at Garden Spot Village, 433 S. Kinzer Ave., New Holland, PA 17557.
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Graybill, J. Lester, 86, of New Holland, Lancaster Co., PA died April 27, 2018 at Lancaster, Lancaster Co., PA from surgery to open blockages in his heart.
He was born September 12, 1931 at Juniata Co., PA to John L. and Bertha (Brubaker) Graybill. John was born September 14, 1905 and died November 28, 1988. Bertha died August 3, 2003.
On August 20, 1955 at Leola, Lancaster Co., PA he was married to Eileen Rutt, who was born August 19, 1933 and survives.
Surviving are children, David Graybill (Brenda Martin); Beth Graybill (Stock Weinstock); and John Graybill (Nikeeta Gupta); two grandchildren, and a sister, Fern Brunner.
Bachelors degrees in Bible and Education from Goshen College, 1954/1955.
Bachelor of Divinity Degree from Goshen Seminary (now AMBS) in 1958.
Master of Theology from Eastern Baptist Seminary (now Palmer Seminary) in 1969.
Pastored Orrville Mennonite Church 1958 - 1979 and Forest Hills Menn. Ch. 1979 - 1997.
Memorial services were held May 5, 2018 at Akron Mennonite Church, Akron, Lancaster Co., PA with burial in Monterey Mennonite Cemetery, Leola, Lancaster Co., PA.
Grieser, Dorothy L. Burkholder, 90, of Archbold, Fulton Co., OH died December 10, 2018 at the same place. She was born May 21, 1928 at Pettisville, Fulton Co., OH to Adam and Beulah (Hooley) Burkholder. On April 9, 1950 at Archbold she was married to Dale Grieser, who died in 1998.
Surviving are children, Kathleen (John Cipka) Cleveland; Cynthia Williams, Grand Ledge, MI; Barbara, San Jose, CA; Sara (Dave Malone), Woodruff, SC; and D. Jonathan (Corrie Norman); two grandchildren, two great-grandchildren; and three sisters, Marge (Lester) King; Betty Yeager; and Donna Graber.
Her brothers, Joseph Burkholder and Donald Burkholder; and sisters, Saverna Humbarger, Mabel Jantzi, and Alta Leininger preceded her in death.
Dorothy served the church by teaching Sunday School and VBS. She also enjoyed painting, sewing, crafts and gardening.
Memorial services will be held March 2019 at Fairlawn Chapel, Archbold, OH.
Groff, Amos H., 100, died Wednesday, June 27, 2018 at Landis Homes. Born in Ardmore, PA, he was the son of the late Noah H. and Esther Hoover Groff. He was the husband of Ruth Dagen Nolt Groff (20 years) and the late Ruth N. Shenk Groff (52 years).
As a child, he attended Groffdale Mennonite Church and later, was a member of Millersville Mennonite Church. He and Ruth donated a great deal of time to organizations such as MCC, The Heart Group and their local church community. He served in the Civilian Public Service during WWII. He and his wife were house parents for orphan boys in Hershey, PA. Amos worked at Moore Dairy for 25 years and later he worked for the Maintenance Department at Millersville University. He was also a farmer his entire life, growing vegetables and selling them at a local farmer's market. He and his wife traveled to Europe and 49 of the 50 states. Amos was a "people person" and had a deep encompassing faith in his Savior. He once said, "What you believe should be a way of life, not just a theory when it suits."
Besides his wife, he is survived by: a son, Gordon L. Groff married to Cathy Gates of Santa Fe, NM; a daughter, Glenda L. married to David K. Landis; a grandson, Drew S. married to Ashley Landis of Ephrata.
He was preceded in death by sisters, Marian Wissler and Esther Weaver.
The funeral will be held Monday, July 2, 2018 at East Bethany Chapel at Landis Homes, 1001 E. Oregon Rd., Lititz, PA at 10:00 am. Friends may call at East Bethany Chapel from 9-10:00 am on Monday. Interment will be in Masonville Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the American Heart Association or Mennonite Mutual Aid.
Groff, Edna Virginia Groff, formerly of Strasburg, died peacefully at the age of 101, at Landis Homes on November 24, 2018. She was born on July 16, 1917 in Strasburg, where she lived most of her life. She was the daughter of the late Enos H. and Martha (Brubaker) Groff, and the wife of the late J. Clarence Groff who died in 1983, to whom she was married forty-five years. She graduated from Strasburg High School in 1934. Edna was an active and faithful member of Strasburg Mennonite Church all of her life. She was a member of her Church Sewing Circle, Farm Women #14, and volunteered at Re-Uzit Shops, and Meals on Wheels. She and her husband operated a wholesale Carnation Cut Flower business for many years. Edna was an expert quilter having done many custom quilts which went all over the United States.
Surviving are a son, Dale E. Groff, husband of Barbara B. (Burkins) of Lancaster, daughters, Patricia A. Groff, of Lititz, Elma L., wife of John Hess of Lititz, and Cheryl L., wife of Jerry Erb of Lancaster. Edna had eight grandchildren, and twenty great-grandchildren. Edna was the last of her eight siblings.
The family thanks the Nursing Staff at Landis Homes for their excellent care.
Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend a Memorial Service at Strasburg Mennonite Church, 1514 Village Rd., Strasburg, PA 17579, on Saturday, December 8, 2018 at 11am. There will be a visitation between 10-11am. Interment at the church cemetery will be private.
Groff, Ernest B., 83, of Richland, formerly of Stevens, died Thursday, August 2, 2018 at the Richland Christian Home.
Born in Denver, he was the son of the late Elmer W. and Leah H. (Brubaker) Groff. He was the husband of the late Mary Ann (Hurst) Groff (died May 26, 2017) with whom he celebrated 63 years of married life.
Ernest was a member of Martindale Mennonite Church. In his former years he served as trustee and also with the recording ministry.
He worked in construction with Harold Groff in his early married years, and 33 years with Victor F. Weaver/Tyson Foods until his retirement in 2005.
He enjoyed spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren in his later years. Ernest and his late wife spent many hours cutting comfort patches for relief work.
Surviving are six children, Leonard, married to Dolores (Nauman) Groff of Leola, Linda, married to Philip Hollinger of East Earl, Mary Jane, married to Frank Zimmerman of Leola, Leah Fay, married to Leon Weaver of Reinholds, Barbara Ann, married to Clair Long of Akron, and Ernest Ray, married to Glenda (Snyder) Groff of Ephrata; 28 grandchildren; and 50 great grandchildren; two brothers and a sister, Elwood Groff of Stevens, Eleanor, married to Raymond Horst of Richland, and Lewis, married to Ella Groff of New Holland.
Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, August 8 at 10 am at Martindale Mennonite Church, 171 Hurst Road, Ephrata. Interment will be in the adjoining cemetery. Viewing will be held at the church on Tuesday from 4-8 pm and on Wednesday from 9-10 am. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to Hospice & Community Care, PO Box 4125, Lancaster, PA 17604 or to Richland Christian Home, 211 S. Race St., Richland, PA 17087. To send the family online condolences visit us at www.groffeckenroth.com. Arrangements by Eckenroth Home for Funerals, Terre Hill.
Groff, Justin Eric, 21 of Pittsgrove, New Jersey, died Saturday, March 24, 2018 at Bay State Medical Center in Springfield, MA from complications from a motor vehicle accident. Born in Pittsgrove Township, NJ he was the beloved son of J. Merlin and Lois Ann Groff.
Surviving in addition to his parents is his daughter, Adrianna, paternal grandfather Elwood B. Groff, maternal grandmother, Miriam Martin, siblings, Jonathan, Chadwin, Carlin, Jennica, and Jalissa, and his girlfriend Bryttney Deliman. He was preceded in death by his paternal grandmother, Ruth Ann Groff and his maternal grandfather, Merlin F. Martin*.
A viewing will be held at the Vineland Mennonite Church, 1127 W. Garden Rd., Vineland, NJ 08360 on Sunday, April 1, 2018 from 2:00 to 4:00 PM and 6:00 to 8:00 PM and a funeral service will be held on Monday, April 2, 2018 at 10:00 AM. Interment will be in the church cemetery.
*Other records show the maternal grandfather's name as "Melvin F. Martin".
Grover, Esther Stutzman
Feb. 6, 1919 - Nov. 30, 2018
GOSHEN - Esther Grover, 99, died Friday, Nov. 30, 2018, at Waterford Crossing Healthcare.
She was born Feb. 6, 1919, in Goshen to Harvey J. and Pearl (Miller) Stutzman.
On July 6, 1964, she married John M. Grover in Goshen. He died June 16, 1992.
Esther is survived by a sister, Doris Stutzman of Goshen, a stepgrandchild and two stepgreat-grandchildren.
Along with her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by a brother, Clem Stutzman; four sisters, Velma Delagrange, Mildred Eichelberger, Lulu Stutzman and Agnes Wenger; and a stepdaughter, Joyce Weeden.
She was a member of Clinton Frame Church and an active member of the women’s sewing group. She volunteered for many years with Meals on Wheels. She worked at GC Murphy, retiring in 1971 after 29 years.
Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 5, and from 10 to 10:45 a.m. Thursday at Clinton Frame Church where an 11 a.m. memorial service will be held. Pastors Ken Bontreger and Linda Miller will officiate.
A private burial will take place prior to the service at Violett Cemetery.
Memorials may be given to Clinton Frame Church.
Gunden, Kent Paul, 61, of Elkhart, Elkhart Co., IN died February 8, 2018 at Goshen, Elkhart Co., IN. He was born June 19, 1956 at Elkhart to William and Evelyn (Rocke) Gunden.
Surviving are siblings, Sherri (Delmar) Gunden King, Dennis (Kimberly) Gunden, and Carla Gunden, all of Goshen, and Marla (Dennis) Peak of Edwardsburg, Michigan.
A 1975 graduate of Concord High School, Kent received an athletic letter for his work as team manager of the football team. He was a member at Belmont Mennonite Church, Elkhart, and worked as a Goshen News newspaper carrier for 23 years. Kent enjoyed many hobbies, including: music, fishing, sports, spending time with family, art, reading, and anything associated with Notre Dame University. Kent participated in several national Special Olympics winning several gold medals in swimming and diving. If you met Kent you would never forget him.
Memorial services were held February 16, 2018 at College Mennonite Chruch, Goshen, IN with burial in Violett Cemetery, Goshen.