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.
2020
R
Raber, Joni B.
August 16, 1932 - May 24, 2020
Joni B. Raber, 87, of Middlebury, died unexpectedly at 5:05 am on Sunday, May 24 at his residence. He was born on August 16, 1932 in Topeka, to Benjamin A. and Anna (Lehman) Raber. On March 31, 1955 in Middlebury, he married Fannie Mae Troyer; she survives.
Survivors in addition to his wife are two sons, Daniel Raber of Angola, Paul (Brenda) Raber of Mishawaka; daughter, Debbie (Freeman) Yoder of Middlebury; daughter-in-law, Darlene Raber of Shipshewana; six grandchildren, three step grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, seven step great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; son, David Raber; daughter-in-law, Toni Raber; four sisters, Abigail Bontrager, Mary Raber, Mattie Raber, Saloma Raber; four brothers, Andrew Raber, Moses Raber, John Raber, Abe Raber.
Joni was a member of Townline Mennonite Church. He was a farmer, worked at several local RV factories, and hauled livestock. He served his 1-W service in Indianapolis during the Korean War.
Visitation will be from 3:00 - 7:00 pm on Wednesday, May 27 at Townline Mennonite Church. Funeral services will be at 10:00 am on Thursday, May 28 also at the church. Due to the current COVID-19 virus, the family would like you to know that Joni had exhibited symptoms of the virus prior to his passing, so use your own judgment when deciding if you should attend services. Services will be conducted by Pastor Dean Yoder. Burial will be in Townline Cemetery, Shipshewana. Memorials may be given to World Missionary Press.
Raber, Martha Sommers
November 7, 1942 - June 4, 2020
Martha Raber, age 77, of Bremen, went to meet her maker on Thursday, June 4, 2020 at 6:21 p.m. at Elkhart General Hospital. She was born November 7, 1942 in Canton, Ohio to Katherine Sommers. On November 6, 1965 she married Henry Raber in Hartville, Ohio. Martha has lived in the Nappanee area since 1978. She was a member of the Berea Christian Fellowship. Martha loved her children and grandchildren. She served alongside her husband in ministry for 46 years. She remained involved in the ministry of encouraging others until her passing.
She is survived by her husband, Henry Raber, Bremen; children, Micah Raber, Bremen, Virginia (Ken) Miller, Paynesville, MN, Rosanna (Jethro) Beiler, Grove City, MN, Christian (Gina) Raber, Elkhart; grandchildren, Collin Miller, Paynesville, MN, Kyle Miller, Military stationed abroad, Gerriana Miller, Jessica Miller, Jacquelyn Miller all of Paynesville, MN, Lucas Beiler, Kaitlynn Beiler, Noah Beiler, all of Grove City, MN; fur grandbaby, Maggie; sister, Sharon Rohrer, Canton, OH; brother, Richard Williams, Canton, OH. She was preceded in death by her mother, Katherine Sommers; and sister, Sadie Roshong.
Family and friends may call from 6-8 p.m., Saturday, June 6, 2020 and 2-6 p.m., Sunday, June 7th all at Berea Christian Fellowship, 504 N. Main St., Nappanee and one hour prior to the funeral service at 10 a.m., Monday, June 8th also at Berea Christian Fellowship. Pastors James Yoder and Keith Yoder will officiate. Burial will be in Berea Christian Fellowship Cemetery.
In accordance with the State of Indiana Back on Track plan, visitation is limited to 100 people in the building at a time. Family and friends are encouraged to follow social distancing protocols.
Arrangements are with Thompson-Lengacher & Yoder Funeral Home, Nappanee.
Raber, Saloma
May 11, 1930 - May 5, 2020
Saloma Raber, 89, of Topeka, died at 2:05 am on Tuesday, May 5, 2020 at Parkview Randallia Hospital, Fort Wayne. She was born on May 11, 1930 in LaGrange County to Benjamin and Anna (Lehman) Raber.
Survivors include her brother, Joni (Fannie Mae) Raber of Middlebury; nine nieces, 13 nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents; three sisters, Abigail Bontrager, Mattie Raber, Mary Raber, four brothers, Andrew, Mose and John, and Abe Raber.
Saloma had worked cleaning houses and had done quilting for most of her life; she was a member of the Old Order Amish Church.
Due to current gathering restrictions, the family will be holding private services. Services will be conducted by Bishop Ernest E. Bontrager in the home ministers. Burial will be in Hawpatch Cemetery, Topeka.
Ramer, Lyndon Brice
July 6, 2019 - January 4, 2020
Lyndon Brice Ramer, age 5 month months and 29 days, of Milton, Iowa, passed away Saturday morning, January 4, 2020, at his parent's home.
The infant son of Daniel and Luann Ramer, he was born on July 6, 2019 at his home in Milton, Iowa. He was born with a heart defect and spent the first three weeks in the hospital. He was sent home, where he loved to be and spent his numbered days. We were blessed with his presence until he was called home.
Lyndon is survived by his parents, Daniel and Luann Ramer of Milton, Iowa; grandparents, Curvin and Arlene Brubaker of Thorp, Wisconsin and Lloyd and Edna Ramer of Rutledge, Missouri; great grandparents, Noah and Lena Oberholtzer of Leola, Pennsylvania, Harvey and Vera Brubaker of Thorp, Wisconsin, Menno, Kathrine Ramer of High Point, Missouri, and step grandmother, Mary Huber of Memphis, Missouri; aunts and uncles, Vera Jane (Brubaker) and Elvin Hoover of Loyal, Wisconsin, Lawrence and Amy (Sadler) Brubaker of Lublin, Wisconsin, Erla Brubaker, Marvin Brubaker both of Thorp, Wisconsin, Arlene (Ramer) and Harlan Brubaker of Gorin, Missouri, Lavern and Faith (Oberholtzer) Ramer of Arbela, Missouri, Merlin and Bethany (Good) Ramer of Memphis, Missouri, Louann (Ramer) and Steven Oberholtzer of Memphis, Missouri, Jonathan and Carol (Oberholtzer) Ramer of Gorin, Missouri, Edna Beth (Ramer) and Dwight Zimmerman of Brashear, Missouri, Lavina Ramer, Laura Kay Ramer, Judith Ramer and Anita Faye Ramer of Rutledge, Missouri; along with eleven cousins.
Lyndon was preceded in death by his great grandparents, John David and Edna Huber.
Visitation will be from 2:00 to 4:00 and 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Tuesday, at the Hillcrest Mennonite Community Center south of Memphis, Missouri.
Funeral Services will be at 9:30 a.m. Wednesday, January 8, 2020, at the Meadow View Mennonite Church north of Memphis, Missouri.
Burial will be in the Meadow View Mennonite Cemetery north of Memphis, Missouri.
Officiating will be Luke Fox, Vernon Oberholtzer, Wilson Martin, and Lee Allen Ramer. Casket Bearers will be Lavern Ramer, Johathon Ramer, Merlin Ramer and Marvin Brubaker.
Lyndon Ramer's family request your presence and prayers, no flowers please.
The Doss Funeral Home, of Edina, Missouri, is in charge of arrangements.
Ramer, Margaret Martin
March 17, 1932 - March 30, 2020
Margaret Ramer, 88, New Paris, died 2:20 a.m. Monday, March 30, 2020 at her home. She was born March 17, 1932 in Goshen, to Monroe & Annettie (Shaum) Martin Sr. On Sept. 6, 1953, she married James M. Ramer and he died June 3, 2017.
Surviving are 5 children, Beverly (William) Stauffer, New Paris, Velma (Irvin) Martin, Nappanee, Galen (Cheryl) Ramer, Goshen, Carol Jean (Dana) Shirk, Cass City, Michigan, Sheila (Richard) Zimmerman, Goshen, 28 grandchildren, 72 great-grandchildren, 3 sisters, Carrie Ramer, New Paris, Verna (Merle) Zimmerman, Elkhart, Carol (Ray) Eberly, Mt. Pleasant, Pennsylvania, 3 sisters-in-law, Pauline Martin, Goshen, Lois Martin, Nappanee and Edith Martin, Goshen.
Preceding her in death are her parents, husband, son, Bernard Ramer, great-grandson, Blaine Stauffer, sister, Lizzie Hoover and 6 brothers, Maynard Martin, Monroe Jr. Martin, Gerald Martin, Harold Martin, Kenneth Martin and Charles Martin.
Margaret was a homemaker and faithfully supported her husband in his ministry. She was a member of the Yellow Creek Wisler Mennonite Church.
Private family services will be held and burial will be in Yellow Creek Frame Cemetery.
Rieth-Rohrer-Ehret-Lienhart Funeral Home, Wakarusa, is handling arrangements.
Ranck, Emma V. Hostetter
October 6, 1932 - April 7, 2020
Emma V. Ranck, 87, of Paradise Township, died peacefully at home and went to be with her Lord and Savior on Tuesday, April 7, 2020. Born in Salisbury Township, she was the daughter of the late Galen and Susie (Hershey) Hostetter.
She was the wife of the late Parke H. Ranck for 60 years at the time of his passing in 2018.
Emma was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, and was dearly loved by many. She was very hospitable, enjoyed gardening, reading, sewing and crocheting. She was also an excellent cook. She especially enjoyed spending time with her swimming friends.
Emma was a faithful member of Strasburg Mennonite Church, where she taught Sunday school and cleaned the church for many years.
Emma is survived by her children: Patricia, married to Raleigh Rhodes; Peg, married to Michael Nolt; Parke, Jr., married to Sheila (Nolt); Pamela, married to Les Nolt and Petrina, married to Paul Westfall; 13 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren and her siblings, Sara Buckwalter and Hershey Hostetter of New Holland.
She was preceded in death by her sisters: Eleanor Hershey, Virginia Neff, Verna Denlinger, Mary Hostetter, Lydia Denlinger, Elverta Horst, and granddaughters, Danae, Danita, and Brianna Rhodes.
The family would like to thank the nurses at Hospice and Community Care for the wonderful care they gave during Emma's illness.
Due to COVID-19, a private graveside service will be held for the immediate family at the Strasburg Mennonite Cemetery. Arrangements entrusted to Dewald Funeral and Cremation Services, Inc. Quarryville.
Ranck, Mary R. Todd
March 5, 1924 - June 18, 2020
Mary R. Ranck, age 96 of Quarryville, PA, passed away at the Mt. Joy Hospice Center, on Thursday, June 18, 2020. She was the wife of the late Lester H. Ranck for 64 years, who passed away on April 10, 2009. She was born in Lititz, daughter of the late William & Anna Laura Root Todd. She was a member of the Mechanic Grove Mennonite Church, where she was a member of the sewing circle and the Happy Hearts Sunday School Class. In the past she had worked at the Quarryville Presbyterian Retire-ment Community. She was a member of the Shi-Maids, a group of lifelong friends. She enjoyed spending time with her family.
Surviving are 3 children: Judy L. wife of James Thomas of New Providence, Ronald L. husband of Bonita Nissley Ranck of Leola, Randall L. husband of Patricia Groff Ranck of Lancaster, 9 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a son Jay L. Ranck, brother John R. Todd, and 11 half siblings: Sanford, Norman and Lincoln Todd, Laura Stauffer, Miriam Groff, Anna Bucher, Anna and Dorothy Shultz, Raymond Brubaker, Minerva Hess, Sara Martin.
A graveside service will take place at the Mechanic Grove Mennonite Cemetery, 735 Church Road, Quarryville, PA, on Tuesday, June 23rd at 10:30 a.m. with Pastor Wayne Kreider officiating. There will be a viewing at the grave from 10 a.m. until time of service. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Hospice & Community Care, P.O. Box 4125, Lancaster, PA 17604.
Reiff, Phares M.
August 8, 1942 - January 24, 2020
Phares M. Reiff, 77, of Lewisburg, entered into rest at 8:29 a.m. Jan. 24, 2020, at Evangelical Community Hospital.
He was born Aug. 8, 1942, in East Earl Township, Lancaster County, a son of the late Paul M. and Lydia M. (Martin) Reiff. On Nov. 12, 1963, in Millmont, he married the former Lena N. Zimmerman, who survives.
He was a member of the Vicksburg Old Order Mennonite Church.
Prior to his retirement, Phares was engaged in farming in Union County.
Surviving in addition to his wife, are seven sons and daughters and their spouses, Ruth and Aaron Weaver of Penn Yan, N.Y., Minnie Reiff of Lewisburg, Lester and Lucille Reiff of Constable, N.Y., Mabel and Warren Zimmerman of Lewisburg, Martha and Jacob Horst of Canandaigua, N.Y., Phares Z. Jr. and Susan Reiff of Lewisburg, Verna and Raymond Weaver of Lewisburg; 41 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, seven brothers and sisters-in-law, Titus and Ada Reiff of Lancaster, Paul and Anna Reiff of Shiloh, Ohio, James and Esther Reiff of Greenwood, Wis., John and Anna Mary Reiff of Latham, Mo., Luke and Ina Reiff of Greenwood, Wis., Edwin and Grace Reiff of Fortuna, Mo., Earl and Edith Reiff of Heron, Mont.; four sisters and brothers-in-law, Anna and Allen Martin, Lucy and Allen Oberholtzer, and Elizabeth and Amos Oberholtzer, all of Mifflinburg, and Lydia and Clayton Shirk of Delano, Tenn.; and one brother-in-law, Warren Martin of Shiloh, Ohio.
He was preceded in death by three sisters, Mabel Martin, Ruth Reiff, and Mary Reiff; and one son-in-law, Mervin H. Horning.
Family and friends are invited to the viewing from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 28, at the home of Warren and Mabel Zimmerman, 2342 Pheasant Ridge Road, Lewisburg, where the funeral services will be held at 9 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 29. Further services will be held at 9:30 a.m. at Vicksburg Old Order Mennonite Church, Beaver Run Road, Mifflinburg, with Bishop Eli Burkholder officiating.
Interment will be in Vicksburg Old Order Mennonite Churc
Funeral arrangements are by Dominick T. Adamo Funerals, Mifflinburg, PA.
Ressler, Elvin J.
December 2, 1944 - April 3, 2020
Elvin J. Ressler, age 75 of Atglen, PA, passed away at his home on Friday, April 3, 2020. He was the husband of Melanie Yoder Ressler with whom he would have celebrated 52 years of marriage with on April 6th. He was born in Myerstown, PA, son of the late Elmer & Anna Mary Lehman Ressler. Elvin pastored for over 40 years, and during that time he also served as bishop and overseer. He was a brick and block mason by trade. He graduated from Kennett High School class of 1962. Elvin enjoyed traveling, fishing, canoeing, NASCAR and being outdoors.
Surviving besides his wife are 2 children: Alan R. husband of Pamela Roemer Ressler of Honey Brook, Genevieve Ressler of Atglen, 3 grandchildren: Caleb & Josiah Ressler and Alexis Long, 5 siblings: Marlin husband of Cathy Neideigh Ressler of Lititz, Grace Gregg of Mineral, VA, Richard husband of Susan Smoker Ressler of Gap, Mark husband of Dana Green Ressler of Conowingo, MD, Ronald husband of Marlene Hoover Ressler of Millersville. He was preceded in death by 2 siblings: David and Mary Jane Ressler.
Due to the current health concerns a private viewing will take place with burial in the Millwood Mennonite Cemetery. A celebration of life service will be scheduled at a later date.
Rheinheimer, Howard L.
May 5, 1925 — April 23, 2020
Howard L. Rheinheimer, 94, of Lititz, died peacefully, with his wife by his side on Thursday April 23, 2020 at United Zion Retirement Community, Lititz. He was born in Shipshewana, IN to his parents, Ed and Laura (Reinhardt) Rheinheimer. He was the loving husband of Miriam E. (Miller) Rheinheimer and they celebrated 70 years of marriage in November 2019.
Howard had worked as a service equipment technician for Favorite Manufacturing, New Holland, and for the Sharp Shopper Grocery Outlet, Ephrata. He was a member and former Sunday School teacher & superintendent of Erb Mennonite Church, Lititz. He did volunteer service work at Kansas City General Hospital, spent 10 years helping to establish a mission church in Hazard, KY and volunteered many winters at Koinonia Farm, Americus, GA and Sunnyside Village Retirement Community in Sarasota, FL. His hobbies included woodworking and gardening. He was a jokester who loved a good play on words and enjoyed creating whimsical gadgets. He was a Godly man & father who modeled an exemplary lifestyle for his children.
Surviving in addition to his wife are his children, Diane C. Durell, N. Palm Beach, FL, Jan F. wife of Marlin Bechtold, Mount Joy, Marilyn J. wife of Ken Umble, Atglen, Michael R. Rheinheimer, Manheim, Kathy E. wife of Jay Embleton, Greenwood, DE, Midge L. Vaccaro, Haverford, Karen K. wife of Robert Gochenaur, Brogue; 18 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; two sisters Lila Mishler, Goshen, IN, Flo Harnish, Ephrata; and a brother Ralph Rheinheimer, Orrville, OH. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a grandson Jordan Umble, a great-granddaughter Haven Rose Embleton, a daughter in-law Karen, two sisters Rachel Miller, Dora Hostetler; and two brothers Floyd and Rollin.
The family thanks the United Zion Retirement Community staff for the excellent care given to our dad this past year.
Due to current public health guidelines, memorial services for Howard will be scheduled and announced at a later date. Interment will be private in Erb Mennonite Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Howard's memory may be sent to United Zion Retirement Community: memo: Benevolence Fund, 722 Furnace Hills Pike, Lititz, PA 17543 or Mennonite Disaster Service, 583 Airport Road, Lititz PA 17543.
Rheinheimer, Kathleen A. Vanalman
January 17, 1936 - October 6, 2020
Kathleen A. Rheinheimer, 84, of Elkhart, formerly of Bristol, passed away at 3:00 pm on Tuesday, October 6, at Elkhart General Hospital.
She was born on January 17, 1936 in Lewistown, PA, to Paul and Kathryn (Singer) Vanalman. On May 6, 1978 she married Jacob C. Rheinheimer, he died February 23, 2002.
Surviving are daughter, Karen Nowlin of Goshen; three sons, Jeffery Custer of Houston, TX, James Rheinheimer of LaGrange, David Rheinheimer of Elkhart; nine grandchildren; 15 great grandchildren; sister, Jean (Richard) Lyter of New Cumberland, PA; step brother, Jack (Lois) Norris of Mechanicsburg, PA.
She was preceded in death by her father, Paul Vanalman; mother, Kathryn Vanalman Norris; sister, Joan Costello; brother, William Leonard.
Kathleen had worked in the banking industry for 15 years as a teller working at Farmers State Bank in Topeka and LaGrange, as well as Lake City Bank in Elkhart.
She was a member of Bonneyville Mennonite Church and enjoyed sewing and reading.
There will be one hour of visitation prior to the 2:00 pm memorial service on Sunday, October 11, at Miller-Stewart Funeral Home, 1003 S. Main St. Middlebury. Services will be conducted by Pastor Mariah Martin.
Burial will be at a later date in Shore Cemetery, Shipshewana.
Memorials may be given to Bonneyville Mennonite Church or Cancer Resources for Elkhart County.
Rhodes, Floyd Jacob
July 18, 1924 - September t, 2020
Floyd Jacob Rhodes, 96, passed away Sept. 5, 2020, at VMRC’s Crestwood assisted-living community in Harrisonburg. He was born in Rockingham County to Ward and Mary Rhodes.
Floyd Rhodes was a longtime member of Weavers Mennonite Church. He built and operated Rhodes Hatchery on Rawley Pike west of Harrisonburg in the 1950s and early 1960s. He also built several homes in Sarasota, Fla., before returning to the Valley in 1978.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Gladys Kiser Rhodes. He visited her every day at Oak Lea Nursing Home until she passed away in August 2017. They celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary on Valentine’s Day of that year.
Mr. Rhodes is survived by three children, Gene (Vicki) Rhodes of Tallahassee, Fla., Elvin (Helen) Rhodes of Lakemont, Ga., and Karl (Kim) Rhodes of Richmond, Va.; also three grandchildren, Emily (Stuart) Rhodes Hunter of Blacksburg, Va., Brianna Rhodes of Los Angeles, Calif., and Eric Rhodes of Sterling, Va.; also one great-granddaughter, Eliza Hunter of Blacksburg, Va.
A memorial service will be held in Harrisonburg after COVID-19 concerns subside. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.mcmullenfh.com.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Weavers Mennonite Church, 2501 Rawley Pike, Harrisonburg, VA 22801.
McMullen Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Rhodes, Jay C.
March 27, 1935 - March 28, 2020
Jay C. Rhodes, 85, of Goshen and formerly of Sugarcreek, Ohio, died Saturday, March 28, 2020 at Walnut Hills Nursing Home following a period of declining health. He was born in Johnson County, Iowa, on March 27, 1935, to the late John and Grace (Swartzendruber) Rhodes. He married Emma Schlabach on Sept. 4, 1955. She died Dec. 26, 1986. He then married Bertha Bontrager on July 2, 1989, she survives.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by his children, Dave (Amy) Rhodes, Sugarcreek, Ohio, Mike (Twila) Rhodes, Easley, South Carolina, Deb (Max) Weaver, Berlin, Ohio, and Mona (Stewart) Hershberger, Sugarcreek, Ohio; stepchildren, Wilbur (Sarah) Bontrager, Middlebury, Julie (Terry) Diener, Goshen, Derald (Cindy) Bontrager, Bristol, Don Bontrager, Goshen, and Cindy (Dave) Hawkins, Middlebury; nine grandchildren; 17 step grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; 22 step great-grandchildren; and his brother, Charles (Wilma) Rhodes, Rockford, Illinois.
He was preceded in death by his parents; first wife; sister, Charlotte Rhodes; stepson, Wendall Bontrager; and twin great-grandsons, Graham Edward and Brady Dean Elmore.
Jay graduated from Iowa Mennonite High School, Kalona Iowa and was a former truck driver; after moving to Indiana he had worked in management for JET, a division of Jayco, Inc., Middlebury starting 1989 and working 16 years until his retirement in 2005 and was a member of Clinton Frame Church.
Visitation will be held from 1:00 to 2:45 p.m. on Saturday, July 11, at Clinton Frame Church, 63846 Co Rd 35, Goshen. A celebration of life service will follow visitation starting at 3:00 p.m., services will be conducted by his son-in-law, Pastor Terry Diener and Pastor Sebastiano Rosa of the church. A private family graveside service was held at Union Hill Cemetery in Sugarcreek, Ohio. Memorial contributions may be given to Wycliffe Associates, Inc and can be given during the services or mailed to Miller-Stewart Funeral Home, 1003 S. Main St., Middlebury, IN 46540.
Rhodes, Roy Franklin
June 12, 1922 - December 9, 2020
Roy Franklin Rhodes, 98, a resident of Dayton, passed away Wednesday, Dec. 9, 2020, at his home. Mr. Rhodes was born June 12, 1922, in Dayton and was a son of the late Samuel L. and Ella Amelia Rohrer Rhodes.
He was a poultry farmer and a member of the Pleasant View Old Order Mennonite Church.
On June 14, 1944, he married W. Grace Showalter, who preceded him in death on Sept. 13, 2019.
Surviving are his children, LeRoy Rhodes and wife, Reba, of Bridgewater, Sheldon Rhodes and wife, Mary Jane, Wilson Rhodes and wife, Margaret, James Rhodes and wife, Mary Ethel, Raymond Rhodes and wife, Donna, Clyde Rhodes and wife, Amy, Linda Rhorer and husband, Phillip, Virginia Burkholder and Emma Lou Showalter, all of Dayton; siblings, Betty Horst, Homer Rhodes, Edna Martin and husband, Clark, Charles Rhodes and wife, Jan; sister-in-law, Joyce Rhodes; brother-in-law, Joseph Berry, all of Dayton; 52 grandchildren; 114 great-grandchildren and nine great-great grandchildren.
In addition to his wife and parents, Mr. Rhodes was preceded in death by his siblings, Anna Ruth Showalter and husband, Joseph, Wilda Beery, Edwin Rhodes and wife, Irene, Marvin Rhodes and wife, Naomi, Lena Witmer and husband, Daniel, Joseph Rhodes and wife, Bonnie; grandchildren, Phyllis Showalter and husband, Scott; great-grandchildren, Shayla and Christina Showalter; Jackson Good; and his in-laws, Mark Horst and Lois Rhodes.
The ministers of the church will conduct a funeral service Saturday, Dec. 12, 2020, at 10 a.m. at Pleasant View Old Order Mennonite Church. Seating will be limited in the church due to the current pandemic restrictions.
The body will be taken home, where the family will receive friends Thursday from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. and Friday until 8 p.m.
Richard, Wesley D.
1939-2020
Wesley D. Richard, 80, of Goshen, Indiana died from a second brain bleed Tuesday, October 6, 2020 at Elkhart General Hospital.
He was born in 1939 in Washington County, Iowa to Glen and Margaret (Wenger) Richard and grew up near Wayland, Iowa. His parents preceded him in death.
In 1961 he married Sue Schlatter in Mount Pleasant, Iowa. She survives along with a daughter, Crystal (Tom) Miller, Portland, Oregon; a son, Mark (Stephanie) Richard, Omaha, Nebraska; and four grandchildren, Tim and Lydia Richard and Alyssa and Phillip Miller. Also surviving are three siblings, Duane (Sherry) Richard, Ocala, Florida, Gloria (Gary) Graber, Freeman, South Dakota and Lynn (Karen) Richard, Mount Pleasant, Iowa.
Wesley had a heart for mission and travelled with Sue to Japan in 1963 under the Mennonite Board of Missions where he learned Japanese and then taught English at Hokusei Gakuen University in Sapporo, Japan and worked with the Sapporo Mennonite church for 19 years. Upon returning to the USA he joined the Communication faculty at Bluffton University, Bluffton, Ohio where he taught for 20 years and also served as co-pastor along with Sue at Elm Street Church of the Brethren in Lima, Ohio. After retiring from teaching and preaching, Wesley and Sue settled in Goshen, Indiana, and celebrated 50 years of marriage. Since then the two of them have served as short term volunteers for the SOOP (service opportunities for older people) in various locations and served as an active member at the West Goshen Church of the Brethren as song leader, teacher, and as a deacon.
Wesley was skilled in carpentry and often helped out his children and others with home remodeling projects. More recently he spent time writing his memoirs and self-published a book about his time growing up in Iowa and in Japan titled: Life’s Template: Memoirs of a Tentmaker.
Visitation will be Friday, Oct. 9 from 4 to 7 p.m. at West Goshen Church of the Brethren.
A 1:30 p.m. funeral service will be conducted Saturday, Oct. 10 at the church with visitation beginning at noon. Pastor Joel DeSelm will officiate.
Burial will follow at West Goshen Cemetery.
Memorial gifts may be directed to the SOOP program through Mennonite Mission Network, PO Box 370, Elkhart, IN 46515
Riegsecker, Joe Devon "Joey"
December 20, 1991 - July 21, 2020
Joe Devon "Joey" Riegsecker, age 28, of Nappanee, passed away at 5 p.m., Tuesday, July 21, 2020 as a result from an accident. He was born December 20, 1991 in Goshen, IN to Joe and Linda (Hochstetler) Riegsecker. He was a lifelong area resident.
Surviving are his parents, Joe and Linda Riegsecker, Nappanee; sister, Delaine (Matthew) Troyer, Nappanee; brother, Darrel (JoLena Miller) Riegsecker, Nappanee; nieces and nephews, Ella, Noah, Elias, Isaac, Milo, and Kate. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Harold and Ida Riegsecker, Leroy and Malinda Hochstetler.
Family and friends may call after 3 p.m., Thursday, July 23, 2020 and all day, Friday, July 24th at Steve and Waneta Borkholder Residence (72990 County Road 101, Nappanee). Funeral service will begin at 9:30 a.m., Saturday, July 25th also at the Steve Borkholder Residence. Bishop Marion Eash and the Home Ministry will officiate. Burial will be in Weldy Cemetery.
Arrangements are with Thompson-Lengacher & Yoder Funeral Home, Nappanee.
Riegsecker, Robert Dean
January 9, 1934 - January 1, 2020
Robert Dean Riegsecker, 85, of Ligonier, Indiana, went to live with his Lord, January 1, 2020, at Parkview Noble Hospital in Kendallville. Bob was born in Elkhart County, Indiana, on January 9, 1934 to John and Neomah Riegsecker. He married Sandra Emmert on July 26, 1964.
He attended Millersburg School and received an associate degree in accounting from Indiana Business College Indianapolis. Bob was a member of Maple Grove church where he was chairman of the children's dept for many years, and later was an active member of the Topeka Mennonite church.
Surviving are his wife of fifty-five years, Sandra Riegsecker, two sons, Greg (Juliana) Riegsecker of Ligonier, Brent Riegsecker of Scottsdale AZ, and two daughters, Jennifer Finlinson of Syracuse, Lori (Pilot) Park of Henderson NV, seven grandchildren, Jay & Robbie Finlinson, Mikel, Tali, Alex, Annie Riegsecker, Danielle Park, two sisters, Lillian (Fred) Slabach, Doris (Roy) Keim, two brothers, Duane and Richard Riegsecker.
A visitation will be held at Topeka Christian Assembly, formerly Topeka Mennonite Church, 206 E Lake St, Topeka, IN 46571 on Saturday, January 4, 2020 from 2-5 pm.
A funeral service will be held at the church on Sunday, January 5, 2020 at 2pm. Pastor Harold Gingerich will officiate.
Burial will follow at Maple Grove Cemetery in Topeka. Memorial contributions may be directed to LaGrange County Youth for Christ.
Risser, Arlene H.
June 14, 1926 - June 26, 2020
Arlene H. Risser, 94, of Lebanon, passed away on Friday, June 26, 2020, at her home.
Born in Lititz on June 14, 1926, she was the daughter of the late Christ S. and Anna W. Hernley Risser. She was a member of the Miners Village Mennonite Church.
She is survived by her brother Paul Risser of Lititz and her sister-in-law Rachel Risser of Washington Boro.
She was preceded in death by her twin brother Clarence husband of Marian Risser, and brother Samuel Risser; and sisters Edna Sauder, Luella Ebersole, Miriam Martin, and Esther Ebersole.
Funeral services will be held on Thursday, July 2, 2020, at 10:00 a.m. at the Miners Village Mennonite Church, 108 Rexmont Rd., Lebanon, PA 17042. A viewing will be held on Wednesday evening from 5:00-8:00 p.m. at the church. Interment will be held at the Hammer Creek Mennonite Church Cemetery, Lititz.
Kreamer & Lum Funeral Home & Crematory, Jonestown, is honored to serve the family.
Risser, Ellsworth Devon "Tiny"
July 13, 1941 - January 9, 2020
Ellsworth “Tiny” Devon Risser, 78, Wakarusa, died 1 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 9, 2020 at Miller’s Merry Manor. He was born July 13, 1941 in Elkhart County, to Devon & Florence (Shaum) Risser. On July 21, 1962, he married Evelyn (Evers) Risser.
Surviving are his wife, Evelyn, Wakarusa, children, Michele (Jody) Schalliol, Nappanee, Myron (Mary) Risser, Elkhart, 3 grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren, sister, Connie (Greg) Ferrier, Niles, Michigan and brother, Wayne (Etta) Risser, Elkhart.
Preceding him in death are his parents and a sister, Karen Kaminawaish.
Ellsworth was graduate of Bethany Christian High School and a member of Olive Mennonite Church. He worked as a meat cutter at Universal Co-op, Goshen.
Visitation will be 5-7 p.m. Monday, Jan. 13, 2020 and one hour prior to the 11 a.m. funeral service on Tuesday, Jan. 14, 2020, all at Olive Mennonite Church, 61081 CR 3, Elkhart. Pastor Philip Leichty & Pastor Kevin Yoder will officiate. Burial will be at Olive (West) Cemetery at a later date. Memorial donations may be directed to Olive Mennonite Church.
Rieth-Rohrer-Ehret-Lienhart Funeral Home, Wakarusa, is handling arrangements.
July 16, 2021
Graveside services for Ellsworth & Evelyn Risser will be 1 p.m. Saturday, July 17, 2021 at Olive (West) Cemetery. Visitation will follow from 1:30- 3 p.m. at Olive Mennonite Church, 61081 CR 3, Elkhart.
Risser, Evelyn D. Evers
April 6, 1941 - April 8, 2020
Evelyn D. Risser, 79, Wakarusa, died 11:40 p.m. Wednesday, April 8, 2020 at Miller’s Merry Manor. She was born April 6, 1941 in La Junta, Colorado, to John & Velma (Kiser) Evers. On July 21, 1962, she married Ellsworth “Tiny” Risser and he died January 9, 2020.
Surviving are 2 children, Michele (Jody) Schalliol, Nappanee & Myron (Mary) Risser, Elkhart, 3 grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren, sisters, Imogene (Wallace) Plank & Beverly Evers, both of La Junta, Colorado.
Preceding her in death are her parents and husband.
Evelyn was a nurse and a member of Olive Mennonite Church.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
Rieth-Rohrer-Ehret-Lienhart Funeral Home, Wakarusa, is handling arrangements.
July 16, 2021
Graveside services for Ellsworth & Evelyn Risser will be 1 p.m. Saturday, July 17, 2021 at Olive (West) Cemetery. Visitation will follow from 1:30- 3 p.m. at Olive Mennonite Church, 61081 CR 3, Elkhart.
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Risser, Evelyn D. Evers, 79, of Wakarusa, Elkhart Co., IN died April 8, 2020 at the same place. She was born April 6, 1941 at LaJunta, CO to John and Velma (Kiser) Evers. On July 21, 1962 she was married to Ellsworth "Tiny" Risser, who died January 9, 2020.
Surviving are children, Michele (Jody) Schalliol, Myron (Mary) Risser; three grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren; and two sisters, Imogene (Wallace) Plank and Beverly Evers.
preceded him/her in death.
Memorial services will be held later at Olive Mennonite Church, Elkhart, IN due to COVID-19 restrictions.
Rittenhouse, Linda D. Weese, 74, of Souderton, PA died May 28, 2020. She was born December 27, 1945 at Cumberland, MD to Virgil and Gladys (Argent) Weese. On June 11, 1966 she was married to Philip Rittenhouse, who was born January 2, 1944 and survives.
Surviving are children, John Rittenhouse & wife, Janelle; Matthew Rittenhouse & wife, Emily; and six grandchildren.
A brother, Michael Weese preceded her in death.
A small memorial service with mostly family was held June 3, 2020 at Blooming Glen Mennonite Church Pavilion, Blooming Glen, PA, due to Covid-19.
Rodes, David Samuel
April 13, 1954 - February 11, 2020
David Samuel Rodes, 65, of Mount Crawford, passed away Tuesday, Feb. 11, 2020, at his home. He was born in Norristown, Pa., on April 13, 1954, and was a son of John Ervin Rodes of Mount Crawford and the late Sadie Lee (Burkholder) Rodes.
David was the owner and operator of Reflections of Yesteryear at the Dayton Farmers Market. He was a historian and co-researcher and compiler of the book "Unionist and the Civil War Experience: In The Shenandoah Valley."
He was united in marriage on March 23, 1974, to Darlene Faye (Myers) Rodes of Mount Crawford.
Surviving, in addition to his wife and father, are three sons, John Michael "Mike" Rodes and wife, Wendy, of Harrisonburg, Murray Travis Rodes and wife, Emily, of Waynesboro and Benjamin David Rodes of Harrisonburg; two sisters, Mary Yoder and husband, Merle, of Long Island, Va., and Lois Martin and husband, Art, of New Market; four brothers, Elden Rodes and wife, Sue, of Mount Crawford, Mark Rodes and wife, Janet, of Goshen, Ind., Fred Rodes and wife, Lois, of Mount Crawford and Ervin Rodes of Mount Crawford. He is also survived by five grandchildren, David "Travis" Rodes, Morgan Emily Rodes, Evelyn Virginia Rodes, Margaret Elizabeth Rodes and Esther Claire Rodes.
A funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, Feb. 14, 2020, at Dayton Mennonite Church with Merle Yoder, Linda Waggy and Philip Wenger officiating. Burial will follow at Dayton Mennonite Church Cemetery.
The family will receive friends from 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 13, 2020, at Johnson Funeral Service in Bridgewater.
Rohrer, Esther Magdalena Rhodes
July 6, 1928 - June 22, 2020
Esther Magdalena Rohrer, 91, of Hinton, passed away Monday, June 22, 2020, at her residence. Mrs. Rohrer was born July 6, 1928, in Rockingham County and was a daughter of the late Webster Clay and Sarah Mabel (Showalter) Rhodes.
She was a member of the Old Order Mennonite Church.
On Aug. 2, 1949, she married Willis David Rohrer, who preceded her in death Oct. 10, 2008.
Mrs. Rohrer is survived by her three sons, Byard Rohrer and wife, Rebecca, of Rockingham, Henry Rohrer and wife, Bonnie, of Dayton and Willis Rohrer Jr. and wife, Karen, of Dayton; four daughters, Erma Zimmerman and husband, Allen, of Mount Solon, Nancy Martin and husband, Aaron, of Fortuna, Mo., Sarah Horst and husband, Paul, of Dayton and Evelyn Knicely and husband, Dan, of Rockingham; a brother, John Rhodes and wife, Louise; a sister, Norma Koogler of Dayton; sisters-in-law, Mary Grace Rhodes, Margaret Rhodes and Ellen Rhodes; 39 grandchildren; 123 great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.
In addition to her husband and parents, Mrs. Rohrer was preceded in death by her siblings, Mark Rhodes, Harry Rhodes, Frank Rhodes, Eber Rhodes, Daniel Rhodes, Reuben Rhodes, Luke Rhodes, Neil Rhodes, Ida Rohrer and Edith Showalter; three grandsons and three great-granddaughters.
The ministers of the church will conduct the funeral service Friday, June 26, 2020, at 10:30 a.m. at the Pleasant View Old Order Church. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Due to current COVID-19 restrictions, seating in the church will be limited and those attending will be asked to maintain safe social distancing. There will be additional seating outside of the church when the capacity is reached inside.
The family will receive friends at the home of Mrs. Rohrer on Thursday, June 25, 2020, from 10 a.m. until 7:30 p.m.
Arrangements entrusted to McMullen Funeral Home.
Rohrer, Ivan Harold
July 12, 1942 - April 15, 2020
Ivan Harold Rohrer, 77, a resident of Dayton, passed away April 15, 2020, at his home. Mr. Rohrer was born July 12, 1942, in Rockingham County and was a son of the late Frank Israel and Annie Marie (Knicely) Rohrer.
He was a dairy farmer and a member of the Old Order Mennonite Church.
On May 22, 1963, he married Elizabeth Frances Rhodes Rohrer, who survives.
Also surviving are two children, Leon Rohrer and wife, Elaine, Esther Wenger and husband, Clifford, all of Dayton; three brothers, Paul Rohrer and wife, Esther, Raymond Rohrer and wife, Mary, all of Dayton, and Stanley Rohrer of Rockingham; sister-in-law, Martha Rohrer; nine grandchildren; and 22 great-grandchildren.
In addition to his parents, Mr. Rohrer was preceded in death by three sisters, Esther Wenger, Ina Wenger and Mattie Wenger; a brother, David Rohrer; and brothers-in-law, Aaron Wenger, Dwight Wenger and John Wenger.
Due to the current coronavirus pandemic, all services and visitation at the home will be private.
McMullen Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Rohrer, Shawn David
November 17, 2019 - July 8, 2020
Shawn David Rohrer, 7 months, of Rockingham, passed away on Wednesday, July 8, 2020, at his home.
Shawn was born on November 17, 2019, in Rockingham County, and was the son of Glendon James and Waneta Mae Rhodes Rohrer. His parents are members of Pleasant View Old Order Mennonite Church.
Surviving, in addition to his parents, are his twin sisters, Charlotte and Shaina Rohrer of home, and grandparents, Nolan and Ruth Rhodes of Rockingham and Arlin and Betty Rohrer of Dayton.
The ministers of the church will conduct a funeral service on Saturday, July 11, 2020, at 10 a.m. at Pleasant View Old Order Mennonite Church. Burial will follow at the church cemetery. Due to the current COVID-19 restrictions, seating in the church will be limited, and those attending will be asked to maintain safe social distancing.
McMullen Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Ropp, Emil Howard, 94, of Kalona, Washington Co., IA died January 2, 2020 at Iowa City, Johnson Co., IA. He was born September 18, 1925 to Solomon C. and Vesta (Yoder) Ropp. On November 25, 1948 he was married to Erma Kauffman, who survives.
Surviving are children, James Ropp, Evans, CO; Juanita (Gordon) Troyer, Kalona; Vivian (Fred) Martin, Washington, IA; Kim (Kent) Lehman, Kalona; 17 grandchildren, five great-grandchildren; and siblings, Cora (Levi) Miller, Springfield, OH; Morris (Norma) Ropp, Bemidji, MN; Paul (Marlene) Ropp, Sarasota, FL.
Brothers, Herman (Gladys) Ropp, John (Violet) Ropp, Leroy (Edith) Ropp, and Wesley Ropp, and sisters, Cleora (Sherman) Yoder, Anna Mae Miller; and Norma Nisly preceded him in death.
Memorial services were held January 7, 2020 at Kalona Mennonite Church, Kalona, IA with burial in Sharon Hill Cemetery, Kalona, IA.
Rudy, John H., 96, died August 26, 2020 at Ephrata, Lancaster Co., PA. He was born March 6, 1924 at York, PA to James and Alma (Groff) Rudy. On January 18, 1947 he was married to Lucy Gehman, who was born November 19, 1924 and survives.
Surviving are a son, Thomas, husband of Sherrill, Allison Park, Pennsylvania; a daughter, Susan, Falls Church, Virginia; a daughter-in-law, Kazuko, Tokyo, Japan; one grandchild, two great-grandchildren; and a sister, Sarah Sauder.
An infant daughter, Marjorie, and an adult son, James, two sisters, Mary Jane Detweiler and Nancy Martin, and two brothers, Clarence and Paul Rudy preceded him in death.
John attended Pennsylvania State University, studying chemical engineering. During World War II, he fulfilled his Selective Service obligation by serving in the Civilian Public Service. After the war, he was employed for 14 years by RCA Corporation in Lancaster in various engineering, financial and administrative capacities. During that time, he was also one of the founders of Neffsville Mennonite Church in Lancaster.
In 1960, John accepted a call to serve as pastor of Bethel Mennonite Church, Gettysburg, for 5 years. Moving to Goshen, Indiana, in 1965, he provided key leadership in founding, developing and administering Mennonite Foundation. During that time, he was also a vice president of financial services with Mennonite Mutual Aid, now Everence. He continued to work at the MMA office in Lancaster for 6 years after his return to Lancaster County in 1984.
John wrote, preached, and counseled extensively throughout the country about Christian stewardship issues during his ministry with the Mennonite Church. He also served on various church boards throughout his life. He was a board member and vice president of Mennonite Economic Development Associates, traveling to various countries, including India, Bangladesh, and the former Soviet Union. He served as an Executive Committee member and treasurer of the Mennonite General Conference and of the Ohio and Eastern Mennonite Conference. He was also moderator of the Atlantic Coast Mennonite Conference. He served as a delegate to the Mennonite World Conference in Amsterdam in 1967.
He and his wife have been long-time members of Forest Hills Mennonite Church, Leola, where over the years, he served as congregational moderator and Sunday school teacher. They enjoyed travel together throughout their lives, visiting all 50 states and making numerous foreign trips, including many trips to Japan to see their son.
Burial was in Stony Brook Mennonite Cemetary, York, PA.
Rutt, Anna Mary Weaver
November 23, 1938 - August 11, 2020
Anna Mary Rutt, 81, of Mt. Joy, died Tuesday, August 11, 2020 at Fairmount Homes, Ephrata. She was the wife of Mervin G. Rutt, who survives.
Born in Terre Hill, she was the daughter of the late John and Edna (Martin) Weaver.
She was a homemaker and a member of Clearview Mennonite Church.
In addition to her husband, she is survived by nine children: Glenn married to Erla (Horst) Rutt, Lititz, Leon married to Jane (Zimmerman) Rutt, Mt. Joy, Darlene married to Ivan Newswanger, Schuylkill Haven, Merv married to Sharon (Zimmerman) Rutt, Newmamstown, Richard married to Jeanette (Burkholder) Rutt, Mt. Joy, Ruth Ann Rutt, Schuylkill Haven, Diane married to Gerald Lehman, Myerstown, Robert married to Janelle (Sensenig) Rutt, Mifflintown, Jeanette married to Clair Hoover, Stevens, 30 grandchildren, 51 great-grandchildren and four siblings: John married to Martha Weaver, Denver, Edwin Weaver, Denver, Edith married to Earl Musser, Newmanstown, Arlene married to Clarence Martin, Ephrata.
She was preceded in death by two siblings: Erma M. Weaver and Lloyd M. Weaver, three grandsons: Andrew Mervin Rutt, Kaden Robert Rutt, Landon Clay Rutt and a great-grandson Mervin Ray Martin.
Her funeral will be held on Tuesday, August 18, 2020 at 9:30 a.m. at Clearview Mennonite Church with Bishop Quinton Wenger, Bishop Melvin Martin, Raymond Hoover and Amos Martin officiating. Interment will be in the adjoining cemetery. A viewing will be held on Monday from 5 - 8 p.m. at the Midway Reception Center. Kindly omit flowers. The Groff-High Funeral Home, New Holland is in charge of arrangements.
Rutt, Elmer G.
August 8, 1940 - September 12, 2020
Elmer G. Rutt, 80, of New Holland, passed away on Saturday, September 12, 2020 at Lancaster General Hospital. He was married 60 years to Ruth Martin Rutt. Born in Lancaster, he was the son of the late Jacob N. and Lizzie Groff Rutt.
Elmer was a member of the Groffdale Mennonite Church, Weaverland Conference. He retired from New Enterprise Stone and Lime Company, Inc. where he had been an equipment operator for over 40 years.
Surviving besides his wife are four sons, Leonard husband of Marlene Martin Rutt of Ephrata, Clair husband of Janice Weaver Rutt of Lititz, Carl husband of Becky Moyer Rutt of Denver, and Matthew husband of Darla Shirk Rutt of Beavertown; a daughter, Karen wife of Luke Martin of Denver; 17 grandchildren, 28 great-grandchildren; four brothers, Mervin Rutt of Mount Joy, L. Lavern husband of Ruth Rutt of Mount Joy, Raymond husband of Marilyn Rutt of Lititz, and Curvin husband of Arlene Rutt of Denver; two sisters, Mary Lou Nolt of Denver, and Anna Frances wife of Dale Nissley of Middletown; and two sisters-in-law, Irene Rutt and Esther Rutt. He was preceded in death by a daughter, Joyce Ann Rutt, two grandchildren, Kristi Rutt and Conner Rutt, two brothers, Clarence Rutt and John Jacob Rutt, a sister-in-law, Anny Mary Rutt and a brother-in-law, Lloyd Nolt.
A Funeral Service will be held on Thursday, September 17, at 9:30 A.M. at the Groffdale Mennonite Church, 90 Groffdale Church Road, Leola, with Bishop Curvin Zimmerman officiating. Interment in the adjoining church cemetery. Viewings will be held on Wednesday from 2:00 to 4:00 and 6:00 to 8:00 PM at the Martindale Mennonite Fellowship Center, 352 Martindale Road, Ephrata.
Kindly omit flowers. Arrangements by the Groff High Funeral Home, New Holland, PA