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.
2022
L
Lambright, Alvin S.
May 21, 1932 - July 5, 2022
Alvin A. Lambright, 90, of Topeka (district: 28-3), died at 10:30 am on Tuesday, July 5, [2022] at his residence. He was born on May 21, 1932 in LaGrange County, to Ammon and Katie (Troyer) Lambright. On December 8, 1955, in Topeka, he married Ada (Fry) Lambright, she survives.
Survivors in addition to his wife are three sons, Larry (Sue Anna) Lambright of Topeka, Paul (Wilma) Lambright of Ligonier, Lonnie (LeEtta) Lambright of Middlebury; daughter, Clara (Norman) Kauffman of Nappanee; 20 grandchildren; 78 great grandchildren; three brothers, Lonnie (Tressie) Lambright of Shipshewana, Harvey Lambright of Topeka, Orlie (Mary) Lambright of Topeka; two sisters, Wilma (Ora) Yoder of LaGrange and LeAnna (Joe) Troyer of Hillsboro, WI.
He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Harley Lambright; infant twin sons; three sisters, Clara Miller, Alma Lambright, Mary Miller; two infant great granddaughters.
Alvin was a retired farmer and former Bishop of the Old Order Amish Church.
Visitation will be after 2:00 pm Wednesday, July 6, and all day Thursday, July 7, at the Mark Lambright residence: 6371 W. 1200 N.-57 in Topeka. Funeral services will be at 9:30 am on Friday, July 8, also at the same residence. Services will be conducted by Bishop Mark Kramer and the home ministers. Burial will be in Hawpatch Cemetery in Topeka. Miller-Stewart Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.
Lambright, Joan Raber
November 21, 1947 - December 23, 2022
Joan Lambright, 75, of LaGrange, (district: 3-2), died at 9:25 pm on Friday, December 23 at her residence, from a hemorrhagic stroke. She was born on November 21, 1947, in Daviess County, IN, to Jerome and Naomi (Wagler) Raber. On September 24, 1970, in Daviess County, she married John L. Lambright, he survives.
Survivors in addition to her husband are five sons and three daughters, Joseph (Susan) Lambright of LaGrange, Rhoda (Paul) Yoder of Jonesville, VA, Rebecca (Reuben) Bontreger of Middlebury, Jesse (Magdalena) Lambright of Hillsboro, WI, James (Christina) Lambright of Shipshewana, Rosanna (James) Yoder of Plains, MT Jonathan (Malinda) Lambright of Shipshewana, Jeremiah (Esther) Lambright of LaGrange, (Joshua and Ellen Murphy of LaGrange); 79 grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren; six brothers and six sisters, Floyd (Mary Margaret) Raber, Josephine (Martin) Stoll, David Wayne (Rosanna) Raber, Fannie Marie (Nick) Graber, Alice (Levi) Stoll, Glen (Delores) Raber, Owen (Betty Jean- dec.) Raber, Catherine (Raymond) Stoll, Barbara (Willard) Wittmer, Mark Eugene (Viola) Raber, Naomi Ruth (Larry Dean) Yoder, Jerome Leon (Mary Catherine) Raber all of Daviess County.
She was preceded in death by her parents, one granddaughter, a sister-in-law, and a brother-in-law.
Joan was a homemaker and a member of the Old Order Amish Church.
Visitation will be after 1:00 pm on Sunday, December 25 and all day Monday, December 26 at the Joseph Lambright residence, 2705 N. 400 W., LaGrange. Funeral services will be at 9:30 am on Tuesday, December 27 also at the Joseph Lambright residence. Services will be conducted by Bishop Paul Hochstetler and the home ministers. Burial will be in Mast Cemetery, LaGrange.
Lambright, Lois Swedberg
July 20, 1940 - June 17, 2022
Lois Lambright, 81, passed away peacefully Friday, June 17, [2022] at Greencroft Healthcare.
She was born July 20, 1940, in Peoria, Illinois to Martin and Minnie (Eigsti) Swedberg.
On June 9, 1962, she married Wayne Lambright in Morton, Illinois.
He survives along with two children, Trent (Kimberly) Lambright, LaGrange, Illinois and Tina (Andrew) Sicari, Los Angeles, California; six grandchildren, Katlyn, Logan, Fiona, Reagan, Isabella and Ethan; and a brother, Eldon (Trina) Swedberg, Morton, Illinois.
Along with her parents, she was preceded in death by a son, Todd Lambright.
Lois graduated from Goshen College in 1962 and later earned a master’s degree from IUSB. An elementary school teacher, she taught English for two years in Puerto Rico while doing Voluntary Service. Lois went on to teach in Bowling Green, Ohio, Wakarusa and Goshen, for a total of 42 years.
Lois enjoyed taking photographs of flowers and scenery and then using those photos to make cards to share with friends. She enjoyed reading and teaching – she taught Sunday School, Bible School and after her retirement, she substituted for another six years.
She was a member of College Mennonite Church where a memorial service will be held at 3 p.m., Saturday, July 16, 2022. No formal visitation is planned.
In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be given to College Mennonite Church for the Primary Department and Model Elementary School Library.
Yoder-Culp Funeral Home is assisting with arrangements.
Lantz, John David, Sr. "Dave"
April 7, 1947 - September 30, 2022
John David "Dave" Lantz Sr., 75, of Rockingham, passed away Friday, Sept. 30, 2022. He was born April 7, 1947, and was a son of the late John and Maude (Geil) Lantz.
Dave retired after a lifetime career of farming in 2020.
Dave was united in marriage to Cheryl (Terry) Lantz, on March 6, 1976, who survives.
Dave is survived by four children, Jennifer (Thad) Miller of Lincoln, Neb., Cathy (Will J) Fittry of Rockingham, John (Jessica) Lantz of Harrisonburg and Jason Lantz of Rockingham; siblings, Miriam (Giles) Hall, Becky (Maurice) Vanhook, June Lantz, Ruth Ann (Ron) Dixon, Joyce (Ron) Wenger, Emily Lantz, and Stephen (Carlene) Lantz; grandchildren, Madeline Fittry, Sierra Fittry, Alexei Fittry, and Nevin Lantz; and numerous nieces and nephews.
A celebration of his life will be held at Grace Mennonite Fellowship, date pending.
Arrangements are entrusted to Johnson Funeral and Cremation Service in Bridgewater.
Lantz, Sarah Lillie Troyer Mast
September 2, 1939 - February 11, 2022
Sarah Lillie Mast Lantz, 82, of Topeka, passed away at 1:41 pm on Friday, February 11, at her residence, while surrounded by her family. She was born on September 2, 1939 in Middlebury to Daniel J. and Pollie (Graber) Troyer. On November 27, 1958 she married Elmer L. Mast, he died May 14, 1966; she was then married on June 23, 1967 to Harold D. Lantz, he died December 15, 2000.
Surviving are 11 children, Dave Lantz, Linda Santos, Steve (Janet) Lantz, Cindy Simmons, John (Shelly) Lantz, Elmer (Kassie) Mast, Sharon Mast, Brenda (Richard) Donat, Samuel Lantz, Grant Lantz, and Charity Berkey; 16 grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren; three sisters, Fannie Mae Raber, Esther (Levi) Borkholder, Annabelle (William) Bontrager; and a brother, Menno Troyer.
She was preceded in death by her parents; both husbands; a daughter, Pollie D. Mast; a son, Harold Dale Lantz; two brothers, Albert J. Troyer, and Ora M. Troyer.
Sarah was a member of the Townline Mennonite Church and loved spending time with her family.
Visitation will be from 4:00 to 7:00 pm on Wednesday, February 16, at Townline Mennonite Church, Shipshewana. There will also be one hour of visitation prior to the 10:00 am funeral service on Thursday, February 17, also at the church. Services will be conducted by Pastor Dean Yoder. Burial will be in Townline Cemetery. Memorials may be given to World Missionary Press.
Lapp, Mary Alice Weber
July 29, 1931 - September 27, 2022
Mary Alice (Weber) Lapp, 91, of Goshen, formerly of Akron, Pennsylvania and Harrisonburg, Virginia, passed away peacefully on September 27, 2022 after suffering a stroke. Alice was born in Lititz, Pennsylvania on July 29, 1931, the oldest child of B. Franklin and Sarah Margaret (Hostetter) Weber.
Alice is survived by her loving husband of 67 years, John A. Lapp; son, John F. (Sandra Shenk Lapp); daughters Jennifer Lerch (Robert) and Jessica W. Lapp (Phil Hertzler); grandchildren Sophia (David) Lapp Jost, Eva Lapp (Sam Smucker), J. Ethan Lapp, Sarah Lerch (Stefan Kuhns,) Robert T. Lerch, J. Nicholas Hertzler; one great-grandson, Timothy Lapp Jost; her sisters Sally Horst and Joyce Busch, and brother Samuel Weber. She was preceded in death by her parents and brother, B. Michael Weber.
Alice always knew she wanted to be a teacher. She graduated from Warwick High School in Lititz, Pennsylvania; she received a BA in English from Eastern Mennonite College after her aunts encouraged her to pursue a teaching degree. She received an MA from James Madison University and taught junior high and high school English in Cleveland, Ohio, Elkton, Virginia, and Norristown, Pennsylvania. She taught college classes at Bethlehem University in Palestine, and in Calcutta, India. Alice also substitute taught while raising her children. She served both as Sunday School and Bible School teacher at Lititz Mennonite Church.
Alice was an impressive hostess and traveling companion to her husband, John, as he served as an administrator at Mennonite Central Committee and Goshen College for many years. Her support and management skills made his work possible. During their 67 years of marriage, they traveled throughout the US and internationally, living for extended periods in Jerusalem, Palestine, and Calcutta, India.
Alice was the author of two books: Christ Is Our Cornerstone: 100 years at Lititz Mennonite Church; and Woodcrest Retreat: 50 Years of Sharing Christ’s Love 1959-2009. She also reviewed books and contributed articles to many Mennonite publications.
Always an active volunteer, Alice served on the boards of the American Association of University Women (AAUW), Salvation Army, Lancaster Mennonite School, and Mennonite Publishing House. She served as a Red Cross volunteer at Goshen General Hospital and Ephrata Community Hospital for many years and volunteered at the Ephrata ReUzit store.
In addition to her volunteer activities, Alice was a singer, artist, pianist, baker, cook, hostess, gardener, and voracious reader. As an active mother and grandmother, she taught her children and grandchildren to bake (especially pies), encouraged them to garden, supplied them with books and read to them, sang and played piano with them, loved playing games, and shared paintings, pies and cookies, flowers, and gardening advice for many years. Her influence and memories will last forever. She will be missed by many friends and family in the US and all over the world.
A Memorial Service in celebration of Alice Lapp’s life will be held on Friday, October 21st at College Mennonite Church, Goshen. Further details on times will be posted when available.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to College Mennonite Church, Mennonite Central Committee, Goshen College, or Eastern Mennonite University.
Layman, Helen Frances Wenger
June 2, 1929 - November 8, 2022
Helen Frances Wenger Layman, 93, of VMRC in Harrisonburg, passed away and went to be with the Lord on Nov. 8, 2022. She was born in Park View in 1929 to the late Oliver and Goldie Heatwole Wenger and lived her entire life within a few miles of her birthplace.
Helen attended Park School and graduated at Eastern Mennonite School. She was blessed to have grandparents, cousins, friends, and school all within walking distance.
Helen was married 73 years to Wilbur Layman, who died on Jan. 24, 2022. She was a full-time homemaker when their children were young, but as they reached the teenage years, she found part-time employment at Red Front Supermarket, So-Fro Fabrics, and Wampler Meat Market.
Helen enjoyed camping, sewing, making flower arrangements, and playing her accordion. Throughout her life she enjoyed getting together with her childhood girlfriends.
Mrs. Layman compiled a genealogy of the Martin A. Lahman family, the descendants of her husband’s grandparents, who had 15 children.
Mrs. Layman was a member of Harrisonburg Mennonite Church. She volunteered at Gift and Thrift and at Tried and True.
Mrs. Layman is survived by her four children: Richard Layman and wife, Donna, of McGaheysville, Edith Layman Rhodes and husband, Gene, of Johnson City, Tenn., Glen Layman and wife, Kitty, of Harrisonburg, and Kenneth Layman and wife, Debbie, of Harrisonburg.
Also surviving are five grandchildren: Michael Layman and wife, Angela, of Chesterfield, Valerie Rhodes Platt and husband, Adam, of Nashville, Tenn., Kevin Rhodes of Johnson City, Tenn., Matthew Layman and wife, Gwen, of Oak Lawn, Ill., and Jonathan Layman of Harrisonburg; five great-grandchildren: Justin Layman and wife, Madison, of Bridgewater, Olivia Layman, Alexander Platt, Shannon Platt, and Abigail Platt; and one great-great-grandchild, Camryn Layman.
Besides her husband, Mrs. Layman was preceded in death by her brother, Shelly Wenger; sister, Dorothy Bellanca; and grandson, Jeffrey Layman.
Pastor Craig Maven will conduct a memorial service Saturday, Nov. 19, 2022, at 2 p.m. at Harrisonburg Mennonite Church.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the VMRC Compassion Fund, 1491 Virginia Ave., Harrisonburg, VA 22802.
McMullen Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
The family would like to thank the staff at VMRC’s Mumaw House for the excellent care of Helen.
Layman, Matie L. Martin
June 26, 1930 - October 2, 2022
Matie L. Layman, 92, a resident of Greencastle, Pa., passed away Oct. 2, 2022. Mrs. Layman was born June 26, 1930, in Goshen, Ind., and was a daughter of the late Willis and Nellie Culp Martin.
She was a member of Pike Mennonite Church.
On Dec. 22, 1963, she married David Solomon Layman, who passed away Sept. 10, 2012.
Having a love for children, she worked in daycare and foster care while single and married and then in 1965, she and her husband adopted three boys. Matie was proud to say she was the last surviving of her siblings.
Surviving are John Layman of Cornwell, Ind., Tony Layman and wife, Marilyn, of Bergton, Dorothy Layman of Harrisonburg and husband, Sergio, and Colleen Meyers and husband, Curtis of Greencastle, Pa.; sisters-in-law, Charlotte Martin and Rosetta Martin and 12 grandchildren.
In addition to her husband and parents, Mrs. Layman was preceded in death by a son, Robert Layman; and siblings, Louise Zimmerman and husband, Edwin, Truman Martin and wife, Lois, Vivian Troyer and husband, Paul, Leon Martin and wife, Anna, Marion Martin, Miriam Martin (infant sister), Mildred Martin and Eugene Martin.
Ministers of the Church will conduct a funeral service Friday, Oct. 7, 2022 at 3 p.m. at Pike Mennonite Church. Burial will follow at the church cemetery.
The family will receive friends Thursday, Oct. 6, from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. at the church.
Online condolences may be made to the family by visiting www.mcmullenfh.com.
McMullen Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Layman, Wilbur Clement
June 24, 1928 - January 24, 2022
Wilbur Clement Layman, 93, of VMRC in Harrisonburg, passed away and went to be with the Lord on Jan. 24, 2022. He was born in Harrisonburg in 1928 to the late C. Weaver and Nina Heatwole Layman.
The Layman family moved to Denbigh, Va. for several years for employment in the Mennonite community near Newport News. Wilbur took his first years of schooling in Denbigh and continued to remember childhood friends there. After returning to the Valley the Laymans lived near Mole Hill. Wilbur attended Dale Enterprise School and graduated at Eastern Mennonite School. While in high school he especially enjoyed playing basketball.
Just a little too young to be drafted in World War II, Wilbur volunteered with UNRRA as a “sea-going cowboy” soon after the war. He helped care for shiploads of horses sent to replenish livestock in Europe. Wilbur liked to talk about his trips to Greece and Poland.
Mr. Layman worked for most of his adult life as a residential building contractor, including some time in partnership with Abe Hershberger. For many years, he was in used cars sales with West Side Motors and Layman Auto Enterprise. In later years, he shuttled vehicles for car dealers and drove cars through the Harrisonburg Auto Auction.
Mr. Layman took his front-end loader to Nelson County in 1969 to help with clean-up after the devastation of Hurricane Camille. He volunteered with Mennonite Disaster Service, Habitat for Humanity, Gift and Thrift, and Tried and True.
Mr. Layman was a member of Harrisonburg Mennonite Church. Wilbur enjoyed camping, deer hunting, researching family history, and playing card and board games.
Wilbur was married 73 years to Helen Wenger, daughter of Oliver and Goldie Heatwole Wenger. He is survived by his wife and their four children: Richard Layman and wife, Donna, of McGaheysville, Edith Layman Rhodes and husband, Gene, of Johnson City, Tenn., Glen Layman and wife, Kitty, of Harrisonburg and Kenneth Layman and wife, Debbie, of Harrisonburg.
Also surviving are five grandchildren: Michael Layman and wife, Angela, of Chesterfield, Valerie Rhodes Platt and husband, Adam, of Nashville, Tenn., Kevin Rhodes of Johnson City, Tenn., Matthew Layman and wife, Gwen, of Oak Lawn, Ill., and Jonathan Layman of Harrisonburg; and five great-grandchildren: Justin Layman and wife, Madison, of Bridgewater, Olivia Layman, Alexander Platt, Shannon Platt, and Abigail Platt.
Wilbur was preceded in death by his sister, Ruth Yost; foster brother, Charles Comer; and grandson, Jeffrey Layman.
Pastor Craig Maven will conduct a memorial service Saturday, Jan. 29, 2022, at 2 p.m. at Harrisonburg Mennonite Church. Masks will be required for attendance.
There will be no viewing or visitation at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the VMRC Compassion Fund, 1491 Virginia Ave., Harrisonburg, VA 22802.
McMullen Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Leaman, Benjamin David
May 17, 1930 - September 25, 2022
Benjamin David Leaman, 92, of Strasburg, passed away Sunday, Sept. 25, 2022 at Lancaster General Hospital. Born in Lancaster, he was the son of the late Benjamin D. and Elsie Martin Leaman. He was married for 71 years to Rhoda Buchen Leaman. Ben had owned and operated farmers markets and stands in suburban Philadelphia. He also drove school bus for many years. He loved to spend time at Camp Hebron, Halifax, and had served on several committees there. He was a member of Mellinger Mennonite Church, Lancaster.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by: a daughter, Anne Leaman, Strasburg; a grandson, Benjamin Klassen, Mountville; a granddaughter, Theresa Klassen, Leola; a great-grandson, Avner Klassen, North Wales, PA; 4 siblings, Carl married to Fran Leaman, Leola, Dr. David married to Jean Leaman, Hershey, Norma married to Lloyd Denlinger, Strasburg, Ray married to Carol Leaman, Lancaster. He was preceded in death by a son, Dale.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, Oct. 8, 2022 at 2 PM from the Mellinger Mennonite Church, 1916 Lincoln Hwy. E., Lancaster with interment following in the adjoining cemetery. The family will visit with friends from 12 to 2 PM at the church on Saturday. Contributions may be made to Camp Hebron, 957 Camp Hebron Rd, Halifax, PA 17032. Furman's Leola
Leatherman, Arlene W.
January 1932 - January 21, 2022
Arlene W. Leatherman, 89, of Landis Homes, Lititz, PA, went home to be with the Lord on Jan. 21, 2022. Born in Perkasie, PA, she was the daughter of the late Walter and Clara Wismer Leatherman.
Arlene was a member of Perkasie Mennonite Church, Perkasie, PA and associate member of Forest Hills Mennonite Church, Leola, PA. In the 1950’s she served two summers in Chicago, IL in voluntary service with the Mexican Mennonite Church and with the Home Mission.
Arlene was a graduate of the former Sell Perk High School. She worked two years for Ridge Hosiery in Quakertown, PA and four years at Fehl's Meat Packing in Blooming Glen, PA. Arlene received a BS in El Ed from Eastern Mennonite University and a Masters Degree in Humanistic Studies from Marywood College. She taught grades 3-5 her first two years in Elida, OH. Arlene returned to her home community where she taught grades five and six for 32 years at Telford Elementary and West Broad Elementary in the Souderton Area School District, Souderton, PA. During her teaching career Arlene enjoyed watching many of her students play Little League Baseball games.
Arlene invested many hours helping Clara Landis assist local church libraries as well as a library in Tanzania and one in Ethiopia.
She is predeceased by two brothers, James Detweiler and Norman Leatherman and by two sisters, Sadie Leatherman Maugle and Grace Leatherman Hufford. She is survived by nephews and nieces and their extended families.
Memorial Services will be announced at a later date. Interment will be at the convenience of the family in Perkasie Mennonite Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Landis Homes Caring Fund, 1001 E. Oregon Rd., Lititz, PA 17543 or Perkasie Mennonite Church, 320 W. Chestnut St., Perkasie, PA 18944.
Furman’s – Leola
Lehman, Lester A.
February 21, 1948 - November 28, 2022
Lester A. Lehman, 74, of Middlebury, (district: 54), died at 9:50 pm, on Monday, November 28 [2022] at Parkview LaGrange Hospital. He was born on February 21, 1948, in Middlebury, to Abe J. and Lydiann (Miller) Lehman. On January 23, 1969, in Middlebury, he married Mary R. Bontrager, she died May 7, 2022.
Surviving are two sons, Verlin (Marilyn) Lehman of Millersburg, Samuel Ray (Sharon) Lehman of Middlebury; five daughters, Martha (Calvin) Lehman of Middlebury, Carolyn (Calvin) Lambright of Goshen, Ruby Lehman of Middlebury, Katie (Freeman) Miller of Shipshewana, Barbara Ann (Lamar) Yoder of Middlebury; 32 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren; two brothers, LaVern (Lydia Mae) Lehman of Middlebury, Elmer Lehman of Shipshewana; two sisters, Mary Ellen Nisley of Goshen, Pollyanna (LaVern) Miller of Kingston, WI; two sisters-in-law, Amanda Lehman of WI, Ellen Lehman of OH.
He was preceded in death by his wife; parents; son, Maynard Lehman; two brothers, John and Mervin Lehman; sister, Esther Chupp.
Lester was a farmer and a retired senior Bishop in the Old Order Amish Church.
Visitation will be after 3:00 pm on Tuesday, November 29 and all day Wednesday, November 30 at the Calvin Lehman residence, 10405 CR 16, Middlebury. Funeral services will be at 9:30 am on Thursday, December 1 also at the Calvin Lehman residence. Services will be conducted by Bishop John Yoder and the home ministers. Burial will be in Naylor Cemetery, Shipshewana. Miller-Stewart Funeral Home, Middlebury, is assisting the family with arrangements.
Lehman, Mabel Huber
October 2, 1941 - April 6, 2022
Mabel H. Lehman, age 80, of Mechanicsburg, passed away at her home on Wednesday, April 6, 2022. Born October 2, 1941 in East Earl, PA, she was the daughter of the late John M. and Elva (Sensenig) Huber. Mabel loved animals and especially liked working with them on the family farm for years. She had also worked as an LPN at numerous local care facilities as well as through home care nursing. In her free time, she enjoyed fishing, taking trips to the beach, and spending time with her children and grandchildren.
Surviving is her husband, Carl L. Lehman; her sons, Dean, Brian, and Timothy Lehman; her daughters, Audrey Boyd, Heather Ladd, Kendra Gallina, and Regina Harris; eighteen grandchildren and one great-granddaughter; and her sisters, Edna Horning and Elva Martin. She was preceded in death by her sister, Mary Lehman.
There will be a viewing from 6:00 to 8:00 PM Monday, April 11 at Slate Hill Mennonite Church, 1352 Slate Hill Road, Camp Hill. Funeral services will be held at the church at 11:00 AM Tuesday, April 12 where there will be an additional viewing from 10:00 to 11:00 AM.
Lehman, Mariah Jane
July 15, 2022 - July 17, 2022
Mariah Jane Lehman, 2 day old infant daughter of Joe and Ava (Miller) Lehman of Millersburg, (district: 34), died at 8:55 pm on Sunday, July 17,[2022] at Parkview Regional Medical Center, Fort Wayne. She was born on July 15, 2022 Parkview Hospital in LaGrange.
Survivors in addition to her parents are a twin brother, Maciah Ray Lehman; grandparents, Perry and Lena Lehman of Middlebury and LaVon and Lorene Miller of Shipshewana; great-grandparents, Noah Lehman of Middlebury, Susie Eash of Topeka, and Daniel and Inez Miller of Shipshewana.
Visitation will be from 11:00 am - 2:00 pm on Wednesday, July 20, at the family's residence, 4080 S. 1125 W., Millersburg. Funeral services will be at 3:00 pm on Wednesday, July 20, also at the family’s residence. Services will be conducted by Bishop Gerald Miller. Burial will be in Hawpatch Cemetery, Topeka. Miller-Stewart Funeral Home, Middlebury is in charge of arrangements.
Lehman, Martin W.
March 14, 1926 - September 6, 2022
Martin W. Lehman, 96, of Goshen died early on September 6, 2022, at Goshen Hospital. He lived at Greencroft Healthcare and was known for his singing that would echo through the halls. As he aged, Martin’s tears also came often to express his love for the church and his grief for its boundary-driven tendencies. He asked for a large print Voices Together hymnal and soon learned a new favorite song: “Ask the complicated questions.”
Martin was born March 14, 1926, on a small farm in Franklin County, Pennsylvania, to J. Irvin and Ruth (Martin) Lehman, a Mennonite minister and his wife. His favorite childhood pastimes were exploring the stream and woods on their “Blueberry Acres” farm. His brother John, six years older, was his only sibling.
Martin studied three years at Eastern Mennonite School in Virginia. As a tenth grader Martin first declared his feelings for classmate Rhoda Krady in a love poem and placed it on her desk during study hall. When she moved home to Lancaster, Pennsylvania, Martin asked her father’s permission to correspond with her. In lieu of his senior year, Martin received GED credit, and joined his father as a partner on their organic farm of vegetables, berries, poultry and honeybees.
Martin was drafted and served in Civilian Public Service as a conscientious objector, 1945-46. He worked in soil conservation in Grottoes, Virginia, then served four months alone on fire towers next to the Sierra National Forest in North Fork, California. His hours alone were spent singing, reading the book of Romans, and pondering the differences among Mennonites and other faiths he was encountering. Martin’s last post was in the public health service unit at Gulf Port, Mississippi, which exposed him for the first time to racial injustice.
Martin and Rhoda were married on April 5, 1947, at Vine Street Mission in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. They built a cottage on a small piece of land deeded to him by his father and were active members at Marion Mennonite Church. The following year they welcomed baby Rachel Elaine. Martin reveled in his new role as daddy.
The couple also were discerning potential ministry and were called to a small mission in Tampa, Florida, affiliated with the Lancaster Mennonite Conference and supported by Eastern Mennonite Board of Missions and Charities. In early 1950, Martin drove their 1932 Chevy Coupe to Tampa, and they moved into the parsonage next to the Ida Street church. Martin was happy that the property included citrus trees, live oaks, and room for a garden, beehives, and a few goats.
Martin was 24 and untrained but faith-filled, passionate, and determined to read, listen, and learn. In their traditional Mennonite dress, Martin and Rhoda made friends by spending time in homes, enjoying new foods, and learning Spanish. Over the years Martin’s message and expectations changed as he struggled to give answers that did not fit. Martin’s youthful conservative faith evolved as he listened and learned.
In 1961, Martin was ordained by Lancaster Mennonite Conference to serve as bishop. The district included churches in South Carolina, Georgia, and Peninsular Florida. The diversity of cultures and needs scattered throughout the Southeast presented challenge. Martin was grateful for the freedom that distance from Lancaster gave him to encourage each church to find its mission in its particular community.
In 1963 a young mother they knew well died suddenly. At the father’s request, Martin and Rhoda welcomed his two-month-old baby as the son they had longed for and named him Jonathan Conrad. Raising an active son provided more learning for Martin.
Martin was granted the school year 1967-68 away to study at Eastern Mennonite College and Seminary and allowed to study courses of his choice. That year Martin relinquished the custom of bishop-led baptism and communion to the pastors. In a meeting with his pastors at the end of that year, Martin told them that he had decided that anything standing in the way of making Jesus known must go.
Martin knew that churches were stronger when working together. As he built relationships with churches across Florida, Martin became a leader in the development of the Southeast Convention, serving as general secretary for ten years until Southeast Mennonite Conference was formed. In 1980, Martin and Rhoda moved to Sarasota. Martin became Conference executive secretary and secretary of congregational Life. An advocate for women in ministry and congregations as the locus of authority, he sought to equip, give counsel, and provide access to churchwide resources. Martin held this post until his retirement in 1992.
A lover of nature, Martin longed for city children and youth to experience camp. The first week-long summer camp was held in 1956. Martin’s efforts, along with pastors and southern Mennonites with financial means, led to the Southern Mennonite Camp Association and the purchase of land that became Lakewood Retreat.
Seeing the need for biblical study, Martin founded, wrote lessons, and directed Project Timothy, a leadership and biblical study program for pastors and lay people.
Martin’s relationships broadened and he was invited to various denominational meetings and also to serve on the Mennonite Board of Congregational Ministries. In 1982, he was asked to serve on a Listening Committee organized and mandated only to listen to Mennonites and their families who identified as gay [LGBTQ] and their experiences of rejection and intimidation in the church. They continued to listen until the Committee was disbanded in 1990. However, Martin’s learning and relationships continued throughout many years ahead.
During the same time period Martin began to find his voice in other issues. He boldly found his own way of addressing issues of justice by literally taking off his shoes to gain admission to groups outside his comfort zone on both left and right, voicing his perspectives with humility and wisdom. Martin also went public with his faith in written articles for Mennonite and local newspapers.
Martin continued to be active well after his retirement. He acquired certification in the DISC personality system in 1991 and conducted workshops to assist congregational leadership councils to become more effective. He became active in the Sarasota’s Suncoast Evangelistic Association and was invited to serve in various leadership roles even though he frequently challenged their views. He also served as interim pastor in Harrisonville, MO, and Arcadia, FL.
Martin was a prolific writer. A first small booklet, Job, published in the Sword and Trumpet represented his conservative take on his CPS experiences. Later he wrote articles for Gospel Herald, The Mennonite, and the Mennonite Weekly Review and was invited to contribute to a number of books. Martin saw computers and the internet as important means of communication. He became a regular correspondent on MennoLink, advocating for LGBTQ Mennonites and other views on church. Martin wrote Whimsies, Highlights, poetry, and sermons that he shared widely by email. He wrote one unpublished children’s book that he titled, The Old Man and the White Cat.
Martin was in his eighties when he completed and published Roots and Branches: A Narrative History of the Amish and Mennonites in Southeast United States; Volume 1 Roots 1892-1969 and Volume 2 Branches 1970-1992. Martin has also had a website: www.oldmennofools.com which is still available for reading, including many topics that have attracted young and old interested in the ponderings of a self-described “nonagenarian who chooses to call himself, "The Old Fool."
Martin is survived by his daughter, Rachel Lehman Stoltzfus and son Conrad (and Jill) Lehman, grandchildren Dan (and Angela) Stoltzfus, Phil (and Rosa Oseguera) Stoltzfus, Belinda Bradford, Kyle Spencer, Diana Lehman and Zach Lehman along with twelve great grandchildren. His dear friend Joyce Buschert also survives. Martin was preceded in death by his wife Rhoda, parents, brother John, son-in-law Eldon Stoltzfus, and great grandson JaQuan.
A memorial service for Martin will be held at College Mennonite Church on Saturday, November 12 at 10:00 am. following a short visitation with the family. It will be livestreamed. Martin’s ashes will be scattered in the College Mennonite Church Memorial Garden in a private service and also placed in the columbarium at Sarasota Community Church, Sarasota, Florida at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be given to the College Mennonite Church: Good News Fund, which provides assistance to immigrants and refugees.
Lehman, Mary R. Bontrager
June 4, 1948 - May 7, 2022
Mary R. Lehman, 73, of Middlebury, passed away peacefully, at her home after a brief battle with cancer at 11:04 pm on Saturday, May 7, at her residence. She was born on June 4, 1948, in LaGrange County, to Reuben and Mary (Mast) Bontrager. On January 23, 1969, in Middlebury, she married Lester A. Lehman, he Survives.
Survivors in addition to her husband are two sons, Verlin (Marilyn) Lehman of Millersburg, Samuel Ray (Sharon) Lehman of Middlebury; five daughters, Martha (Calvin) Lehman of Middlebury, Carolyn (Calvin) Lambright of Goshen, Ruby Lehman of Middlebury, Katie (Freeman) Miller of Shipshewana, Barbara Ann (Lamar) Yoder of Middlebury; 32 grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; brother, Orla (Sally) Bontrager of Topeka; three sisters, Elsie (Melvin) Yoder of Bonduel, WI, Martha (Samuel) Schrock of LaGrange, and Lydia Mae (Glen) Miller of Kingston, WI.
She was preceded in death by her parents; son, Maynard Lehman; brother, Ervin Bontrager; and a sister, Edna Raber.
Mary was a homemaker and member of the Old Order Amish Church.
Visitation will be after 2:00 pm on Sunday May 8, and all day Monday, May 9, at the Calvin Lehman residence, 10405 County Rd. 16 Middlebury. Funeral services will be at 9:30 am on Tuesday, May 10, at the same residence. Services will be conducted by Bishop John Yoder and the home ministers. Burial will be in Naylor Cemetery, Shipshewana.
Lehman, Mary S. Huber
November 30, 1935 - January 5, 2022
Mary S. Lehman, 86, of Lebanon passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, January 5, 2022. She was the wife of the late Peter S. Lehman whom she married on January 5, 1957. She was born in Union Grove, East Earl Township, Lancaster County on November 30, 1935, a daughter of the late John M. and Elva Sensenig Huber. Mary was a member of the Millbach Mennonite Church of Weaverland Conference. She volunteered as an EMT for the Schaefferstown Ambulance for several years and also at Home Health Aide for the GSH.
Surviving are children, Linda J. and husband Jay C. Martin of Reinholds; Wilmer H. and wife Rhoda Horst Lehman of Lebanon; Stephen H. and wife Janice Baker Lehman of Myerstown; Mary Jane and husband Darin T. Burkholder of Newmanstown; Candace F. and husband Dale L. Martin of Newmanstown; Carol A. Lehman of Lebanon; 11 grandchildren; 24 great grandchildren; sisters, Edna and husband Moses Horning of East Earl; Mabel and husband Carl Lehman of Mechanicsburg; Elva and husband Wilmer Martin of New Holland. She was preceded in death by an infant son. The family is grateful for all the caregivers who helped serve Mary throughout her journey.
Funeral service will be held on Wednesday, January 12, 2022 at 9:30 a.m. in Fairview Mennonite Church, 111 Elco Drive, Myerstown. Interment will be made in the adjoining church cemetery. Viewing on Tuesday, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Fairview Mennonite Reception Center, 141 Jackson Road, Lebanon. PLEASE OMIT FLOWERS. Clauser Funeral Home, Inc. is handling her arrangements.
Lehman, Paul L.
March 27, 1928 - August 5, 2022
Paul L. Lehman, 94, of Elkhart passed away peacefully, Friday, August 5, 2022 at Hubbard Hill Healthcare. Paul was a man of faith and will be remembered for his love of family, positive outlook on life, his laughter and playing games.
Paul was born March 27, 1928 in Elkhart County to Wilbur and Pearl (Ganger) Lehman. On June 22, 1947 he married Mary Alice Long in Nappanee. They recently celebrated their 75th wedding anniversary.
Mary Alice survives along with their children, Kathy (Duane) Beck, Dick (Jolene Bontrager) Lehman, and Chuck (Becka Leinbach) Lehman; five grandchildren, Andy (Julie) Lehman, Heather Beck, Emily (Steve) Burgess, Scott (Hannah) Lehman, and Brent (Rosie Kimball) Lehman; 13 great-grandchildren; and three great-great grandchildren.
He is also survived by a sister, Marilyn (Lewis) Hochstedler.
Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Arlene (Bob) Mast, a great grandchild, and a great-great grandchild.
Paul’s lifetime career in sales spanned furniture sales, Fuller Brush and DuMor, and provided a wide circle of acquaintances over the years. He and Mary Alice have enjoyed their years at Hubbard Hill and have deeply appreciated the care Paul received during these last weeks through Goshen Hospice and at Hubbard Hill Healthcare.
Paul loved having campfires with family and friends over the years, sharing stories, laughter, mini candy bars and peanuts. He was an avid reader and developed computer skills as technology became prevalent. He was a member at Belmont Mennonite Church and has appreciated the many expressions of care from the congregation.
Visitation will begin Wednesday, August 10, 2022 at 9:30 a.m. at Belmont Mennonite Church, Elkhart, where an 11 a.m. funeral service will be conducted. Pastors Amanda Yoder and Phil Schmidt will officiate.
Burial will follow, Wednesday at 2:30 p.m. at Violett Cemtery, Goshen.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to REST Ministries/Shepherd’s Gate; https://rest-ministries.org/, Goshen Home Care and Hospice; https://goshenhealth.com, Hubbard Hill Estates; https://hubbardhill.org/, or Belmont Mennonite Church; https://belmontmc.org/.
Yoder-Culp Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.
Lehman, Sara E. Shrock
February 15, 1938- February 23, 2022
Sara E. Lehman, 84, of Topeka, died at 8:40 pm on Wednesday, February 23, at her residence. She was born on February 15, 1938 in Geauga County, OH, to Elmer J. and Edna (Miller) Shrock. On February 27, 1958 in LaGrange County, she married Daniel M. Lehman, he died November 12, 2020.
Surviving are five sons, Wilbur (Katie Irene) Lehman and Raymond (Loretta) Lehman both of Topeka, Lavern (Lorene) Lehman of Shipshewana, Floyd (Loretta) Lehman of Topeka, Marvin (Lora) Lehman of Topeka; three daughters, Edna (Ervin) Bontrager of LaGrange, Kathryn (David) Fry of Topeka, Ida Lehman of Topeka; 40 grandchildren; 79 great grandchildren; three sisters, Katie Wickey of Decatur, Fannie (Leroy) Miller of Goshen, Mary (Ezra) Miller of Fremont, MI; a brother, Marvin (Ruby) Shrock of Middlebury; sister-in-law, Mary Esther Shrock of LaGrange; two half-sisters, Erma (Marvin) Miller of Middlebury, Esther Yoder of Hillsboro, WI; a half sister-in-law, Ruby Yoder of Hillsboro, WI; four step-sisters, Orpha (Ora) Miller of Libby, MT, Susie Miller of Kingston, WI, Verna (Owen) Hershberger of Mora, MN, Wilma (Elmer) Beechy of Shipshewana; four step-brothers, Alvin (Katie) Yoder of LaGrange, Toby (Martha) Yoder of Goshen, Christy (Anna) Yoder of Vevay, Milo (Lorene) Yoder of St. Ignatius, MT; a step brother-in-law, Ezra (Edna Mae) Bontrager of LaGrange; a step sister-in-law, Anna Marie (Clarence) Miller of LaGrange.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; a grandson, Darrell Lehman; a brother, Melvin Shrock; a half-brother, Clarence Yoder; three step-brothers, Ervin, Elmer, and Perry Yoder; three step-sisters, Beulah Yoder, Rosa Bontrager and Anna Mae Yoder.
Sara was a homemaker and member of the Old Order Amish Church.
Visitation will be after 1:00 pm on Friday, February 25, and all day Saturday, February 26, at the Floyd Lehman residence, 4820 W. 300 S., Topeka. Funeral services will be at 9:30 am on Sunday, February 27, at the Jason Lambright residence, 3220 S. 500 W., Topeka. Services will be conducted by Bishop Perry Lehman and the home ministers. Burial will be in Miller Cemetery, LaGrange. Miller-Stewart Funeral Home, Middlebury is in charge of arrangements.
Livengood, Martha H.
March 9, 1928 - May 9, 2022
Martha H. Livengood, age 94, passed away on Monday, May 9, 2022 at Landis Homes. She was born in West Lampeter township, daughter of the late Phares W. and Reba Hess Livengood. She was a member of Mellinger Mennonite Church.
Martha worked for Hubley Toy Mfg. and later worked at Witmer's Greenhouse for many years. She was an avid flower gardener. She also enjoyed making crafts and making Easter candy.
She is survived by 2 brothers: David husband of Mary Burkhart Livengood of Willow Street and Earl husband of the late Joyce Deiter Livengood of Lancaster. She is fondly remembered by many nieces and nephews and their children. She was preceded in death by 4 siblings; Ira, Paul, Rhoda and Mildred Livengood.
A graveside service will take place at the Millersville Mennonite Cemetery, 435 Manor Avenue, Millersville, PA, on Friday, May 13th at 11 a.m. There will be a viewing from 10 a.m. until time of service.