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.
2023
I to K
Jantzi, Constance L. Reynolds
January 5, 1952 - May 23, 2023
Constance L. (Reynolds) Jantzi, formerly of Corry, Pa, passed away May 23, 2023, at her residence in Erie, PA. She was born January 5th, 1952, in Corry, PA, daughter of the late Cecil Reynolds and Arlene (Hershberger) Reynolds. She was raised and educated in Corry – graduating from Corry High School in 1969.
Connie was a life-long member of Beaverdam Mennonite Church. It was there where she met the love of her life, Lonnie Jantzi, ultimately marrying June 6th, 1970. She worked for several years at Troyer Potato Products prior to starting their family. Her primary goal and focus for the next several years was raising and caring for her two sons – Curtis and Chad. Once the boys were of school age, Connie went back to work as a Teacher’s Aide in various buildings for the Corry School District for close to 20 years. Most of those years were in the same buildings where her children attended – a blessing they all cherished. Connie ultimately retired in 2000 due to a progressive illness that plagued her body for the remaining 23 years of her life.
Connie served in numerous capacities at Beaverdam Mennonite Church. Both Lonnie and Connie were church custodians for several years when the boys were young. Connie taught Sunday School for many years and held the role as Sunday School Superintendent often. Of all the roles she held at the church, her greatest joy came from serving as Beaverdam’s Director of Summer Bible School for over 20 years – touching the lives and souls of countless children.
Connie was an avid reader, loved exercising at the YMCA where her children affectionately called her “Nautilus Queen”, taking long walks with friends, enjoyed the love and company of cats, but above all was devoted to God, friends, and family. She truly was an incredibly special woman. With her warm smile and beautiful heart, she impacted the lives of many. The Fruit of the Spirit (love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control) were abundantly evident in her life and character. She never failed to provide support, encouragement, and advice – always willing to help anyone in time of need. All that knew her saw Christ’s beauty radiate a love for life we should all emulate. She was faithfully a light in this world that could brighten the darkest room.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her stepmother, Agnes Miller (sic - should be Martin) Reynolds.
She is survived by her husband of 52 years, Lonnie L. Jantzi; two sons, Dr. Curtis Jantzi and his wife Abigail of Kingsport, TN and Dr. Chad Jantzi and his wife Amanda and children (Avery and Evan) of Erie, PA; two sisters, Cheryl Clabbatz and husband Ben of Jacksonville, FL and Chrystal Yoder and husband Carl of Nappanee, IN.
Friends and family are invited to honor her earthly life and celebrate her eternal Heavenly calling at Bracken Funeral Home, 315 N. Center St, Corry, PA 16407 on Friday, May 26th from 4pm until 7pm. Additional calling hours will be held at Beaverdam Mennonite Church, 17721 Rte 89, Corry PA 16407 on Saturday, May 27th from 10am until the time of the funeral service at 11am. Pastor Randy Carr will officiate.
Burial will be in Lawn Cemetery in Beaverdam, PA following the funeral.
Arrangements are under the care of the Bracken Funeral Home, Inc., 315 N. Center St., Corry, PA 16407.
Jantzi, Lois Jean Leaman
March 2, 1957 - November 23, 2023
It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that we announce the passing of Lois Jean Jantzi, a loving wife, devoted mother, and cherished grandmother. Lois peacefully departed this world on Nov. 23, 2023, at the age of 66, surrounded by her beloved family.
Lois was born on March 2, 1957, in Lancaster, Pa., daughter to the late Henry B. and Marian (Garber) Leaman. She was a compassionate soul who dedicated her life to the noble profession of nursing, leaving an indelible impact on the lives of countless patients, particularly children. Lois was an artist and loved drawing and in her spare time she enjoyed hiking and traveling.
Beyond her professional achievements, Lois was a devoted family woman. As a beloved spouse to John Jantzi, their love story was a testament to the power of commitment and unwavering support. Together, they created a warm and nurturing home, filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories.
Lois will be deeply missed by her adoring children, Crystal (Seth) Kanaskie, Derrick (Nichole) Jantzi, Adrienne Jantzi, and Michael Jantzi. Her legacy of love will also endure through her beloved grandchildren, Avery Kanaskie, Kellon Kanaskie, Declan Jantzi, and Breck Jantzi. In addition to her immediate family, Lois leaves behind her dear siblings, Sara Leaman, Rachel (Loren) Johns, Jim (Sheryl) Leaman, Ken (Judy) Leaman, and Ron (Joyce) Leaman.
In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by a sister, Carol Witmer.
A memorial service will be held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 9, 2023, in Lois' memory at the Willow Street Mennonite Church, 399 East Penn Grant Road, Willow Street, PA 17584.
Should you wish to honor Lois' memory and carry on her legacy, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to TC3 Church, a cause dear to her heart. Contributions can be made online at https://tc3.church/.
Johnson Funeral and Cremation Service in Bridgewater is entrusted with arrangements.
Janzen, Cynthia Ruth "Cindy" Wedel
March 6, 1948 - August 16, 2023
Cynthia (Cindy) Janzen, 75, died August 16, 2023 at Greencroft Healthcare from causes related to Alzheimer’s Disease.
Cindy was born March 6, 1948, in Newton Kansas to Ben V. and Ruth (Schrag) Wedel, the second of 4 girls. She grew up on the family farm near Moundridge, Kansas where she began grade school in a one-room school. After graduating from Moundridge High School, she attended Bethel College in North Newton, KS before transferring to Goshen College, IN, where she received a BS in Nursing degree.
As a nurse, Cindy worked in various areas, including pediatrics, home health, and diabetes education. Her last job was private duty.
She married David Janzen in 1970 and they enjoyed nearly 53 years of life together, mostly in Elkhart, IN, until moving to Greencroft Goshen in 2013. He survives along with sons Ben of Middlebury, Steve and Tony (Denise Reesor) of Goshen, sisters Pat (Mark) Rupp, Moundridge, Pauletta (Stan) Brodhagen of Wichita KS, and Connie (Rex) Esau of Austin, TX along with her Janzen in-laws, many nieces and nephews and a special cousin, Mary (Ray) Hunsberger of Goshen.
Proceeding her in death were her parents; a stillborn daughter, Maria Hope; and niece Jackie Rupp.
Cindy was baptized upon confession of faith by Rev. Arnold Nickel at Eden Mennonite Church, Moundridge, and faithfully served her Lord throughout her life. She was among the founding members of Fellowship of Hope Mennonite Church in Elkhart and used her gifts of compassion, friendship, and music to the benefit of all she met. Her legendary sense of humor brightened the days of family, patients, church, and community friends.
Cindy’s musical talents in voice and flute contributed to several choirs and the church music group over the years. A treasured video captures her singing “Take Thou My Hand O Lord” at her parents 50th wedding anniversary. Her last choir was the Evergreen Singers of Goshen.
Among her community service ventures were serving as a board member and volunteer at Loveway, Inc, and leading an Alzheimer’s Support Group. As a teenager, she participated in an open housing march inspired by Martin Luther King while doing a short-term volunteer stint in Chicago.
While her mental and physical capacities were stolen by Alzheimer’s, her pleasant personality remained. She was a favorite among the Healthcare staff as her attentive eyes and frequent smile affirmed those who cared for her. Cindy was a special gift of God that blessed her family and the many friends and patients who knew her.
Her remains were donated to MedCure for further research toward the eradication of Alzheimer’s. Friends may call from 5-8 pm Friday, September 8, 2023, with a memorial service at 10:30 am Saturday, September 9, at College Mennonite Church in Goshen. Lunch will be served after the service with the opportunity to share stories of Cindy’s life.
The family gives a heartfelt thanks to all the Greencroft staff, our extended family, friends, and church members who helped us walk this difficult journey.
Memorials may be contributed to Loveway, Alzheimer’s and Dementia Services of Northern Indiana, or the Greencroft Foundation.
Jeschke, Marlin
May 18, 1929 - September 16, 2023
Marlin Jeschke, 94, died September 16, 2023, after a brief stay in hospice in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He was born May 18, 1929, west of Laird, Saskatchewan, the sixth of seven children of Ernest and Eva (Schmidt) Jeschke, and grew up on the family farm. Marlin graduated from Prairie Bible Institute High School, Alberta, Canada, in 1947, and Prairie Bible College in 1952. He received a BA in English from Tabor College in Kansas, in 1954. At Garrett Seminary in Evanston, Illinois, he completed a Bachelor of Divinity degree in 1958, and a Ph.D. in Religion in 1965.
Marlin was on the faculty of Goshen College in the Division of Bible, Religion, and Philosophy, from 1961 to 1994. An early highlight of his career as a college professor was a 1968-69 Fellowship in Asian Religions at the Center for Study of World Religions at Harvard Divinity School, which allowed him to travel to a variety of Muslim and Buddhist countries from Lebanon to Japan. Marlin had an impact on the curriculum of his department, adding courses such as Asian Religions, Religion in America, Christianity and Marxism, and Religion and Science. Christian theology was always his main focus, teaching The Christian Faith class fifty times. He published three scholarly books on the subjects of church discipline, church baptism, and the Holy Land.
A member of The Mennonite Historical Society since 1961, Marlin served as its secretary for some years and as its president for five years. He was book review editor of The Mennonite Quarterly Review for fourteen years. Marlin also wrote many book reviews for Mennonite Weekly Review and, over the course of his career, was invited to speak at many churches and other venues.
In retirement, Marlin kept busy as an educator. He recorded 600 episodes of The American Religious Landscape, broadcast on Goshen College radio station WGCS, and for over six years wrote a weekly Global Faiths column for The Goshen News Saturday religion page. He also enjoyed serving as a docent at MennoHof interpretive center in Shipshewana. In his last years living at Greencroft Retirement Community, he was an avid user and supporter of the Pumpkinvine Nature Trail.
Marlin married Charmaine Louise Shidler of Denver, Colorado, in 1955. They had three children, Eric (Amy Baum), Hilo, Hawaii, and twins Margaret (Bart Miller), Oak Park, Illinois, and David (Kimberly Rush) Seattle, and six grandchildren Momi and Tyler Jeschke, Simon and Evelyn Miller, and Nick and Cate Jeschke. After 36 years of family life on Carter Road in Goshen, Charmaine died in 1991. In 1994, Marlin married Elizabeth “Betty” Bixel Miller of Bluffton and Berlin, Ohio, who died in 2018 after 24 years of marriage.
Marlin is survived by his children and grandchildren; stepdaughter Kathy Fenton-Miller (Willard); stepdaughter-in-laws Linda and Crystal Miller; step-grandchildren Lisa Rose Martin, Leanne and Robert Miller, Solomon and Emma Fenton-Miller, Alyssa and Phillip Miller; two step-great-grandchildren; and sister-in-law Rosalee Jeschke. He was preceded in death by wife Charmaine; second wife Betty; sisters Edna Lepp, Anna Schroeder, and Helen Dirks; brothers Alfred, Roland, and Donald Jeschke; daughter-in-law Kimberly Rush; and stepsons Jim Miller and Tom Miller.
With his ready smile, Marlin was known to pause at the door to his room at Greencroft and declare “I was a family man,” pointing to photos of his grandchildren. The love for and faithfulness to his family was demonstrated in so many ways for so many years. He took his children on long bike rides, planted rows of raspberry bushes, filled the sandbox under the cherry tree, and built simple toys in his garage workshop. He played kickball in the yard after supper and stayed up late writing countless family letters. In retirement, he loved to take his treasured Prius on road trips to see relatives. If he wasn’t hand-delivering cider or peppernuts, he was sending care packages of chocolate and Yoder’s popcorn. The gratitude he expressed for the simplest things, like sitting on a porch with coffee and a “cloudless blue sky” is a legacy he leaves for all of his family.
Marlin was baptized into the Salem Krimmer Mennonite Brethren Church, Waldheim, Saskatchewan, in 1946. Together with his wife Charmaine, he joined College Mennonite Church in 1969, where he remained an active member for the rest of his life. As both a lifelong student and teacher, Marlin sought to obey the biblical command to love God with all his mind. Indeed, he found a rich and intellectually satisfying faith, which he shared with friends and family and thousands of students at Goshen College.
A memorial service will be held at College Mennonite Church at 11am on Saturday, November 18. Memorial contributions can be made to The Marlin and Elizabeth Jeschke Scholarship for Religious Studies at Goshen College, www.goshen.edu/give, or to Friends of the Pumpkinvine Nature Trail, pumpkinvine.org.
Kandel, Mary Wengerd
May 10, 1932 - October 18, 2023
Mary Kandel, 91, of Berlin, Ohio, went to her Heavenly Home on October 18, 2023, at Aultman Hospital following a period of declining health.
Celebration of Life services will be held 4 p.m. Sunday October 22nd at Martins Creek Mennonite Church with Pastor Jay Conn officiating. Friends and Family may call from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday at the church. A private burial will take place at Grace Church Cemetery in Berlin, Ohio.
Mary was born May 10, 1932, in Wilmot, OH and was the daughter of Andrew C. and Verna (Schlabach) Wengerd. She married Robert J. Kandel, and he preceded her in death June 3, 1987. She later married Eli V. Kandel, and he preceded her in death on September 6, 2013. Mary worked at Owens Illinois retiring in 1993. She was a member of Martins Creek Mennonite Church. Mary enjoyed sewing, reading and driving but most of all spending time with her family.
Mary is survived by four children: Patricia (Gary) Leatherman, Lynn (Sharon) Kandel, Randy (Irene) Kandel, Kaye (Wayne) Yoder; stepchildren: Diane (Marvin) Holsopple and Gloria (Dewey) Mishler; twelve grandchildren; 30 great grandchildren; and her brother Marvin Wengerd.
She was preceded in death by both of her husbands; sister Mattie Miller; brother Aden Wengerd and stepson Lowell Kandel.
Kauffman, Ada Yoder
May 1, 1933 - March 3, 2023
Ada Kauffman, 89, of Walnut Creek, passed away on Friday, March 3, 2023 at Walnut Hills Nursing Home.
She was born in Holmes County on May 1, 1933 to the late Sam and Elizabeth (Raber) Yoder and was a member of the Martins Creek Mennonite Church.
She is survived by children, Steve (Laura) Kauffman of Fredericksburg, Deborah (Bryan) Barry of Copley, Gary (Anne) Kauffman of North Carolina, Victoria (Gary) Kreinbrink of Leipsic and Leonard (Mitzi) Kauffman of North Carolina; grandchildren, Corey, Amanda, Hailey, Anya and Isaac; a sister, Anna (Abe) Yoder of Fredericksburg; sisters-in-law, Clara Yoder, Mary Schwartz, Ada Enzen, Fran Gerber, Mary Ellen Kaufman and Joann Kaufman.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Leo Kauffman; an infant son, David Kauffman; brothers, Andy, Eli and Dan Yoder; and a sister, Melinda Schlabach.
Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, March 7, 2023 at 11:00 am at the Martin Creek Mennonite Church, 6111 CR 203, Millersburg, with Pastor Jay Conn officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Friends may call on Tuesday from 9:30-11:00 am at the church. Spidell Funeral Home in Mount Eaton is handling the arrangements.
Kauffman, Donald Riehl
November 09, 1944 – September 16, 2023
Donald Riehl Kauffman, 78, West Liberty, Ohio, passed away Saturday, September 16, 2023, after a short illness. He was born November 9, 1944, to the late Roy and Pauline Kauffman. He graduated from West Liberty-Salem High School and Lincoln Technical Institute in Automotive Mechanics.
On September 10, 1967, Don married Sharon Baker, in Indianapolis Mennonite Church, and she survives. Also surviving are three sons and their wives; Donny (Annie) Kauffman of Bellefontaine, Jason (Robin) Kauffman of West Liberty, and Aaron (Kelly) Kauffman of Tullahoma, TN; ten grandchildren, Josh (Nicci), Jordan (Cara), Alyssa, Shelbi, Isaac (Stephanie), Nick, Sebastian, Cadence, Lillian, and Juliana; three great-grandchildren, Caroline, Claire, Carter; and a sister, Joan (Andy) Helmuth.
Don was a self-employed mechanic most of his adult life. After retirement he and Sharon enjoyed traveling and visited all the lower 48 states. He was greatly involved with Mennonite Disaster Service serving both locally and to places like Detroit and New Orleans cleaning up and rebuilding after disasters. He had a generous spirit and loved to help those in need both monetarily and by giving of his time and talents. He was a devout Christian and loved telling others about Jesus. He was a long-time member of Oak Grove Mennonite Church, where his services will be conducted.
Visitation will be from 3-7 p.m. on Tuesday, September 19, 2023, at Oak Grove Mennonite Church, 1525 Mennonite Church Road in West Liberty, Ohio. Pastor Alex Dye will officiate a memorial service at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, September 20th at the Church with visitation one hour prior to the memorial service. A private inurnment will take place at the family’s convenience.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Mennonite Disaster Service or Mennonite Central Committee.
EICHHOLTZ DARING & SANFORD FUNERAL HOME, WEST LIBERTY is honored to serve the Kauffman family.
Kauffman, Elizabeth Plank
February 13, 1935 - October 14, 2023
Elizabeth Kauffman, 88, of Middlebury, passed away peacefully at 10:20 pm on Saturday, October 14, [2023] at her residence. She was born on February 13, 1935, in Garnett, KS, to Sam and Katie (Yoder) Plank. On May 15, 1955, in Yoder, KS she married Norman "Dale" Kauffman, he survives.
Survivors in addition to her husband are daughter, Patricia (David) Yoder; son, Gerald Kauffman, both of Middlebury; two grandsons, Derek (Andrea) Yoder and Travis Yoder; two great grandchildren, Caydence and Jude Yoder; sister, Fannie (Dean) Yoder of Middlebury.
She was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Clara Yoder; brother, Roy Plank.
Elizabeth was a homemaker and a member of the First Mennonite Church in Middlebury. She was an active member of the sewing/quilting community at her church and regularly donated her creations to the Mennonite Relief Sale. She enjoyed camping around the country with her family and, later in her life, wintering in Florida with her husband.
Visitation will be from 4:00 - 7:00 pm on Wednesday, October 18, at Miller-Stewart Funeral Home, 1003 South Main Street Middlebury. There will also be one hour of visitation prior to the 10:00 am funeral service on Thursday, October 19, at the First Mennonite Church, Middlebury. Services will be conducted by Pastor Phil Yoder and Pastor Tim Eash. Burial will be in Grace Lawn Cemetery, Middlebury. Memorials may be given to Karing Hearts.
Kauffman, Gertrude Elizabeth Miller
February 29, 1928 - August 29, 2023
Gertrude Elizabeth Kauffman, 95, of Elkhart, formerly of Union, MI, passed away peacefully at 3:22 pm, on Tuesday, August 29, [2023] at Brentwood Assisted Living, Elkhart. She was born on February 29, 1928, in Arthur, IL, to Elmer and Barbara (Yoder) Miller. On August 14, 1949, in Middlebury she married Benjamin A. Kauffman, he died May 3, 2018.
Surviving are two daughters, Debra Murphy of Elkhart and Dee (Richard) Shirley of Middlebury; son, Dennis (Doreen) Kauffman of Bristol; four granddaughters, Chrisi Cornell, Stephanie (Michael) Marsh, Rachel (Bernard) Cunningham, and Katelyn Shirley; 11 great grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; granddaughter, Kari Kauffman; brothers, Jonas Miller, Nelson Miller, Albert Miller, Clarence Miller, and Elmer Jr. Miller; sisters, Irma Thomas and Sovillah Mast.
Gertrude was a member of the First Mennonite Church.
The family will hold a private Graveside Service at Grace Lawn Cemetery. Services will be conducted by Chaplain John Shrock with Traditions Hospice. A celebration of life will be held at a later date. The family would like to thank everyone at Brentwood Assisted Living for the five years in their care, as well as Traditions Hospice for her end-of-life care. Miller-Stewart Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Kauffman, Irene Kauffman
December 29, 1920 - February 19, 2023
Irene Kauffman, 102, of Goshen, died at 10:50 am on Sunday, February 19 [2023] at Greencroft Healthcare. She was born on December 29, 1920, at the home of her parents, Edward J. and Mary Ann (Weaver) Kauffman in York Township, Elkhart County, Indiana. On October 14, 1944, she married Elwood R. Kauffman at the First Mennonite Church in Middlebury. He died September 14, 1996.
Surviving are her children, Glenda Putman of Ponte Vedra Beach, FL, Wanda (DeVon) Hoffman of Goshen, Elwood J. (Darlene) Kauffman of Millersburg, Melba (Ralph) Lutes of Shipshewana and Penny Lantzer of Middlebury; ten grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, and two step great-grandchildren. Preceding her in death were her parents; husband; a stillborn daughter, Maryella; six siblings, Edna Boyer Lockwood, Sylvia Kropf, Harley Kauffman, Orpha Eash, David Kauffman, and Velma Nusbaum.
After graduating from the eighth grade at Nihart School in York Township, her early working career began at Mackenzie (later Bradshaws) General Store in Middlebury. Later she worked in Goshen for the Pickering family and at Kline’s Department Store. After her marriage, she assisted her husband on their farm and at their Clinton Center Grain business, both in Clinton Township. She was also employed at Coachmen Industries in Middlebury from 1966 - 1973.
Irene was baptized in her youth and was a member of the First Mennonite Church in Middlebury. She later became a member of the Clinton Brick Mennonite Church where she was instrumental in starting the Sonshine Day Care in Millersburg. She participated in a mission trip to Russia and served on the Clinton Mennonite Cemetery Association Board from 1978 - 2005.
Irene enjoyed singing and was the alto in several women’s groups in her youth. She was a charter and 55-year member of the Clintonettes Extension Homemaker Club. Irene will be remembered as a hard worker who was able, in her retirement, to enjoy traveling and bringing smiles with her sense of humor.
The family will hold a private burial in Clinton Mennonite Cemetery. A memorial service will take place at 2:00 pm on Thursday, February 23 at Miller Stewart Funeral Home, 1003 South Main Street, Middlebury. Visitation will follow the memorial service until 6:00 pm also at the funeral home. Memorial donations may be made to Sonshine Day Care Ministry or Clinton Mennonite Cemetery Association.
Kauffman, Janet A. Graybill
(78) - January 10, 2023
Janet A. (Graybill) Kauffman, 78, of Conestoga, passed away at home surrounded by family on Tuesday, January 10, 2023 after a seven year battle with cancer. Born in Lancaster, she was the daughter of the late Robert and Martha (Sanders) Graybill. She was the loving wife of John M. Kauffman. Together they shared almost 57 years of marriage.
Janet graduated from Pequea Valley High School in 1963. Three years later, she married John on May 1, 1966. She was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother who loved nothing more than taking care of her family. She loved family trips to the beach and going on cruises. She attended New Danville Mennonite Church.
In addition to her husband, Janet is survived by her children Linda M. Kibodeaux (husband, Allen) and John Michael Kauffman (wife, Sarah); her grandchildren Jeffrey S. Lacock, Jodi L. Hunt, Jena R. Demarzo, Julianne G. Kibodeaux, Jessika S. Kibodeaux, Wren Kauffman, and Rueben Kauffman; and her great-grandchildren Isis, Ezra, Bailey, and Beatrice; as well as her siblings Julia Brubaker (husband, Jerry), Mag Urban (husband, George), Shirley Coldiron, and Gerald Graybill (wife, Mary). In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by five brothers and two sisters.
Services will be held at New Danville Mennonite Church, 103 Marticville Road, Lancaster, PA 17603 on Saturday, January 21, 2023. A Viewing will take place at 10:00 AM, with Funeral Service immediately following at 11:00 AM. Committal will take place at Silver Spring Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Hospice & Community Care at www.hospiceandcommunitycare.org or 685 Good Drive, Lancaster, PA 17604; or to The American Cancer Society at www.cancer.org or 1818 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103.
Kauffman, Miriam Lucille Kuhns
Ictiber 1m 1933 - October 2, 2023
Miriam Lucille Kuhns Kauffman, 90, a resident of Harrisonburg, passed away Monday, Oct. 2, 2023, at VMRC.
Mrs. Kauffman was born Oct. 1, 1933, in Chambersburg, Pa., and was a daughter of the late Harry and Carrie Florence Kriner Kuhns. With the family, she moved to Harrisonburg to attend Eastern Mennonite School where she met her future husband, Elroy. Miriam earned her RN degree from the Rockingham Memorial Hospital School of Nursing and worked as a nurse for many years for RMH, as campus nurse at Eastern Mennonite College (now University), and at Sunnyside Presbyterian Home.
On Dec. 24, 1954, she married Elroy Wayne Kauffman, who survives.
Mrs. Kauffman’s love of music was shown through her encouragement of her sons’ musical interests, 20 plus years of singing with the Shenandoah Valley Choral Society, and many years singing with Elroy and three other couples as the Lindale Octet. She was an accomplished knitter, avid birdwatcher, and enjoyed their flower gardens. Miriam and Elroy were strong supporters of Laurelville Retreat Center. Upon retirement, they enjoyed traveling via train and car.
Also surviving are her children, Elroy “Wayne” Kauffman II and wife, Karen, James A. Kauffman and wife, Ardith, and Kenneth K. Kauffman; sisters, Marie Hertzler and husband, Robert, Joyce Harshberger and husband, David; sister-in-law, Karen Good Kuhns; five grandchildren and six nieces and nephews.
In addition to her parents, Mrs. Kauffman was preceded in death by her brother, Donald E. Kuhns.
Following cremation a memorial service will be held at Lindale Mennonite Church Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2023, at 11 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Mennonite Brethren Heritage Center, Harrisonburg, VA, PO Box 1563, Harrisonburg, VA 22803.
Her family expresses gratitude and appreciation to Virginia Mennonite Retirement Community for the care and camaraderie she experienced there.
McMullen Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Kauffman, Willis F.
March 25, 1947 - March 23, 2023
Willis F. Kauffman, 75 of Arthur, Illinois passed away at 9:50 AM on Thursday, March 23, 2023 at Carle Hospital in Urbana, Illinois with his two A by his side.
Funeral services will be held at 10:00 A.M. on Wednesday, March 29, 2023 at the Arthur Mennonite Church, 710 E. Park St., Arthur, Illinois. Pastor Glen Rhodes will officiate. Burial will be in the Arthur Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 1:00 P.M. to 3:00 P.M. and 5:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M. on Tuesday, March 28, 2023 at the church. The Edwards Funeral Home is assisting with arrangements.
Willis was born on March 25, 1947 in Arthur, Illinois, a son of Fred and Clara (Herschberger) Kauffman. He married Mary E. Garber on March 16, 1970 in Asheville, North Carolina. Mary passed away on December 2, 2020.
Willis is survived by his two children, Kathy Kearns and her husband David, and Kevin Kauffman and wife Pege, all of Arthur, IL, two grandsons, Tyler Kearns and his wife Sarah of Arthur, IL and Scott Kauffman of Effingham IL; two step grandsons, Kolby and Nick Hubster both of Arthur, IL; one great grandson River Kearns, five siblings, Katie Ann Hostetler and husband Albert of Arthur, Ervin Kauffman of Arthur, Al Kauffman and wife Pat front Leesburg FL, Bessie Hostetler and husband Robert of Middlefield, OH, Sarah Otto of Kokomo IN, a brother-in- law Joe Hostetler of Middlefield, OH, and sister-in-law, Martha Mullet and husband Johnny from Sugarcreek, OH.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Clara Kauffman, his wife Mary Kauffman, and one sister, Dora Hostetler.
Willis was a member of the Arthur Mennonite Church, Arthur, Illinois.
Willis grew up and went to school in Arthur, IL. He moved to Ohio and worked as an orderly in a hospital. He later worked for Foremost Trucking in Sugarcreek, OH; Willis hauled whey, a byproduct of the manufacturing of cheese. After moving back to Arthur, IL Willis worked for Bursa Trenching, he later drove a truck for Mike Green and then finally drove a milk truck for Larry Kauffman and Prairie Farms.
Willis enjoyed garden tractor pulling; he had a garden tractor that he used to pull for over 10 years. He also enjoyed going to Rice Lake in Canada to fish.
His favorite thing to do was spend time with his family. The holidays especially, Mary and Willis always made Christmas candy; peanut butter cups, dipped pretzels, caramels, and Mary’s famous turtles, just to name a few. Their holiday confections were made with love and affection, making the holidays sweeter for many.
Kauffmann, Cynthia Nyce
March 16, 1957 - October 1, 2023
Cynthia Nyce Kauffmann, 66, of Goshen died at 12:30 a.m., Sunday, October 1, 2023 at her home surrounded by her family.
She was born March 16, 1957 in Sellersville, Pennsylvania to Harold and Lorene (Detwiler) Nyce.
She was a graduate of Christopher Dock Mennonite High School, Lansdale, Pennsylvania and Goshen College.
On April 16, 1978 she married Galen Kauffmann at Pleasant View Mennonite Church in Goshen.
She spent her working life mostly in administrative assistant positions. She spent many years working at Goshen College where she was a special friend to many of the international students there. She later assisted at her husband’s law office.
Cynthia was a member of Waterford Mennonite Church since 1990, and was active there as Sunday School teacher, mentor, worship leader, and Stephen Minister.
She was preceded in death by her father, Harold Nyce.
She is survived by her mother, Lorene Nyce of Lansdale, Pennsylvania, as well as her husband and children, Rosanna of Goshen, and Aaron (Natasha) of Elkhart. Also surviving are her siblings, Philip (Phyllis) Nyce of Dublin, Pennsylvania, Kathleen (Larry) Keech of Sarasota, Florida, Mary (Randy) Roth of Goshen, and Mark (Heiki-Lara) Nyce of Telford, Pennsylvania.
Cynthia has chosen cremation with her ashes to be interred in the columbarium at Waterford Mennonite Church.
There will be visitation Friday, October 6, 2023 at Yoder-Culp Funeral Home from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. A memorial service will be held and live-streamed at Waterford Mennonite Church, 65975 State Road 15, Goshen, Saturday, October 7, 2023 beginning at 10 a.m.
Memorial gifts in Cynthia’s honor may be directed to Mennonite Central Committee, PO Box 500, Akron, PA 17501; https://mcc.org/ or Humane Society of Elkhart County, 54687 C.R. 19, Bristol, IN 46507.
Kaufman, Mattie A. Miller
June 19, 1943 - June 28, 2023
Mattie A. (Miller) Kaufman, 80 years, 9 days, of Arthur, Illinois passed away at 6:20 AM on Wednesday, June 28, 2023 at her residence.
Funeral services will be held at 9:00 AM on Saturday, July 1, 2023 at the HCK West Building, one mile south of Arthur, Illinois. Bishop Larry Diener will officiate. Burial will be in the Yoder Cemetery in rural Arthur, Illinois. Visitation will be held anytime after 2:00 PM on Thursday, June 29, 2023 and any time after 10:00 AM on Friday, June 30, 2023 all at the HCK West Building. The Edwards Funeral Home is assisting with arrangements.
Mattie was born on June 19, 1943 in Douglas County, Illinois. She was the daughter of Amos J. and Ida G. (Hochstedler) Miller. She married Andrew J. Kaufman on July 30, 1999. He passed away on September 12, 2009.
She is survived by 9 step children, Jacob Kaufman and his wife Maria of Houston, TX, Reuben Kaufman and his wife Leah of Arcola, IL, Annie Stutzman and her husband Clarence of Humboldt, IL, Melvin Kaufman and his wife Lela of Arthur, IL, Harvey Kaufman and his wife Irene of Cuba, IL, Clara Mast and her husband John of Sullivan, IL, Alma Mast and her husband Alva of Torrington, WY, Lewis Kaufman and his wife Verna of Arthur, IL and Levi Kaufman and his wife Shirley of Humboldt, IL, 66 step grandchildren, 262 step great-grandchildren, 28 step great-great-grandchildren, 1 brother David Miller and his wife Rose of Shipshewana, IN, 1 sister-in-law, Fannie Marie Miller of Arcola, IL, 17 nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, 2 still born step great grandchildren, 4 step-great-grandchildren, 1 brother, Omer Miller, 2 sisters, Amanda and Annie Miller, and 1 sister-in-law, Kathryn Miller.
Mattie was a member of the Old Order Amish Church.
Keener, Virgie L.
June 7, 1924 - January 28, 2023
Virgie L. Keener, 98, had purpose throughout her long life in sync with the gift of serving. Born in Rapho Township, Lancaster County, PA, on June 7, 1924, to Walter D., Sr. and Ada B. Keener. Virgie died January 28, 2023, at the Mennonite Home from where she had retired at the age of 71 after 32 years' employment.
Besides parents, Virgie was pre-deceased by siblings Edwin, Samuel, Mary Miller, Walter Jr., John, A. Lincoln and seven nieces and nephews. Surviving are siblings Harold Keener, Helen Hess (James), Barbara Reed and a sister-in-law, Olive, as well as most of her siblings' children, grand and great-grandchildren.
Virgie was very much one-of-a-kind, happily content as a single adult while cherishing others' celebrations of marriage and new life. There was only one Virgie and she will be deeply missed, not only by family but friends whom she had also blessed and who loved her in return: Helen Haldeman, the Bill Scott family and Janet Patton, conveyor of fabrics to Virgie and boxes of cut patches from Virgie to sewing teams. Before and sometimes even after - graduating from the University of Philadelphia Graduate School of Practical Nursing, many families benefitted from her caring help, especially on the occasion of a new baby in the home. Three children in countries south of the border were blessed by her sponsorship through Compassion International; one of the three received a visit as did her sister Barbara's family in Somalia in 1971.
With appreciation for floral beauty, altar arrangements in earlier years at Elizabethtown Mennonite Church, where she was a member, were often arranged and placed by Virgie.
Thousands of beautiful bed comforters have gone "in the name of Christ" from Mennonite Central Committee to bless people in far reaches of the earth. Of those, hundreds were because Virgie, almost to her last breath, cut precise patches from fabrics which both Elizabethtown and Erisman Mennonite Sewing Circles provided. Her nephew, James Keener & his late spouse, Sara Ann, for many years designed and sewed patches together, with Erisman women energetically accepting much more responsibility for all steps of the process when others could not continue.
A service of remembrance will be held at Elizabethtown Mennonite Church, 300 South Spruce Street, Elizabethtown on Saturday, March 4, 2023 at 11:00 AM. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Mennonite Home, (Memo: Benevolent Care), 1520 Harrisburg Pike, Lancaster, PA 17601.
Keim, Ray J.
January 13, 1944 - January 27, 2023
Ray J. Keim 79, of Wilmot, died Friday, January 27, 2023 at his home after a period of declining health. He was born on January 13, 1944 to the late Jacob A. and Nettie (Weaver) Keim. On December 23, 1965 he married Mary M. Yoder who survives. He was a member of the Old Order Amish Church where he was ordained as deacon in September of 1991.
In addition to his wife Mary he is survived by his children, Laura (David) Miller of Millersburg, Katie (Atlee) Hershberger of Millersburg, Leroy (Linda) Keim of the home and Merlin Keim of the home; 14 grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; one brother, Aden (Ella) Keim of Dundee; and one sister-in-law, Sandy Keim of Wooster.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his grandson, Jeffrey Lee Keim; four brothers, Dan, Steve, Roy and Abe Keim; and one sister, Mary Keim.
Funeral services will be held at the Marlin J. Miller residence, 1573 US 62, Wilmot (Pep Waynes), on Monday, January 30, at 9:00 AM with Bishop Joe Miller Jr. officiating. Burial will follow in the Keim Cemetery. Friends may call at the Marlin J. Miller residence after 2 PM on Saturday and any time on Sunday.
Miller Funeral Care – Walnut Creek, OH 330-893-2273.
Keirn, Ruthann "Sue" Eicher
October 25, 1946 - January 7, 2023
Ruthann “Sue” Keirn, age 76, of Cochranville, PA, passed away on Saturday, January 7, 2023 at Penn Medicine Lancaster General Hospital. She was the wife of David R. Keirn, with whom she celebrated 53 years of marriage on December 21st of last year. Born in Kendallville, IN, she was the daughter of the late Howard B. and Ruth Emma Clark Eicher. Sue was an active member of Maple Grove Mennonite Church where she taught Sunday School. She earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Education from Manchester College, IN and taught elementary school for 5 years in Indiana. She enjoyed horses, bird watching, oratorical reading, being outdoors and playing with her grandchildren. In addition to her husband, Sue is survived by 3 children: Jessica wife of Doug Engle of Cochranville, Gary husband of Sarah Johnson Keirn of Shelley, ID, Carly wife of Jesse Koehn of Atglen, 13 grandchildren, and a brother, Howard V. “Bill” husband of Trude Eicher of Spencerville, IN.
Funeral service will take place at the Maple Grove Mennonite Church, 549 Swan Road, Atglen, PA 19310 on Saturday, January 14 at 11 a.m. with Pastor Mike Clemmer officiating. Interment will be in the adjoining church cemetery. There will be a viewing at the church on Friday from 6 to 8 p.m. and again on Saturday from 10 a.m. until time of service. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in Sue’s memory to the Maple Grove Mennonite Church.
Kennell, Velda Mae Ulrich
June 23, 1942 - May 6, 2023
Velda Mae Kennell, 80, of Benson, IL, went to her eternal home on Saturday, May 6, 2023, at OSF St. Francis Medical Center, after a terminal stroke that happened on Thursday morning.
She was born on June 23, 1942, at the family home in rural Roanoke to David and Wilma Kennell Ulrich. She married Leonard Kennell on August 25, 1961. During their early years of marriage, the couple made their home in Benson, IL, until Leonard went into voluntary service in Fort Wayne, IN.
Velda is survived by her husband of 61 years, Leonard; five children, Leon (O’Tilia) Kennell of El Paso, IL, Larry (Rose) Kennell of Joliet MT, Valerie (Jon) Yoder of Roanoke, IL, Loren (Joanne) Kennell of Roanoke, IL, and Lonnie Kennell of Hayward, WI; 26 grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; one sister, Janice Ulrich of Washburn, IL; one brother, Virgil (Dot) Ulrich of Lacon, IL; and one sister-in-law, Loretta Ulrich of Washburn, IL.
She was preceded in death by her parents, David and Wilma Ulrich; and one brother, James Ulrich.
A true homemaker at heart, Velda enjoyed raising her family on the farm. She loved gardening, sewing, tending to her pink petunias, eating anything strawberry and reading her Bible in the early hours of the day.
Velda and Leonard opened Family Foods in Benson, IL, in 1994. She enjoyed her interaction with the community of Benson.
In their retired years, they enjoyed volunteering with Mennonite Disaster Service (MDS) with relief services and cleanup work following natural disasters in many states. They made friends wherever they went.
Most of all though, Velda loved spending time with her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was an enthusiastic and energetic lady.
Velda gave her heart to the Lord at a young age and was a member of the Linn Mennonite Church in Roanoke, IL, until her death.
The family would like to thank everyone for their thoughts and prayers. The generosity and loving kindness have been a blessing during the time of Mom’s passing.
Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, May 11, 2023, at Linn Mennonite Church in rural Roanoke. Church ministers will officiate. Visitation will be held from 2 to 8 p.m Wednesday at Knapp-Johnson-Harris Funeral Home in Roanoke. Burial will be in the Roanoke Mennonite Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Linn Mennonite Christian School. Online condolences and tributes may be sent to the family at knappjohnsonharris.com.
Kilmer, Kent "Austin"
July 8, 1997 - April 6, 2023
Kent "Austin" Kilmer, age 25 years, of Versailles, Missouri, passed away peacefully on April 6, 2023 surrounded by his family at University of Missouri Hospital in Columbia, Missouri.
He was born July 8, 1997 to Benny and Vera Mae Kilmer in Versailles, Missouri.
Austin was a member of Excelsior Mennonite Church in Versailles, Missouri.
Along with his parents, Austin is survived by seven siblings, John David and Melissa Kilmer of Fortuna, Missouri, Amanda and Timothy Kilmer, Joanna and Joseph Martin, Seth and Esther Kilmer and Benjamin Kilmer all of Versailles, Missouri, Kimberly and Eli Zimmerman, Jr. of Osage, Iowa and Carolyn and Samuel Zimmerman of Alta Vista, Iowa; eight nephews; seven nieces; maternal grandmother, Hettie Martin of Fortuna, Missouri; paternal grandmother, Ella Kilmer of Versailles, Missouri and many uncles, aunts and cousins.
He was preceded in death by maternal grandfather, John Z, Martin, paternal grandfather, Menno B. Kilmer; uncle, Paul Z. Kilmer and nephew, Zane N. Kilmer.
Services will be held at 9:30 a.m., Tuesday, April 11, 2023 at Excelsior Mennonite Church. Burial will be in Excelsior Mennonite Church Cemetery. Visitation will be from 2:00-4:00 p.m. and 6:00-8:00 p.m., Monday at the family home.
Arrangements are under the care and direction of Kidwell-Garber Funeral Home of Versailles.
Kilmer, Phillip Roy
February 1, 1946 - February 2, 2023
Phillip Roy Kilmer, 77, of Benton, passed away peacefully Thursday, February 2, 2023, at home surrounded by his loving family.
He was born on February 1, 1946 in Goshen to Herman and Kathryn (Yoder) Kilmer. They preceded him in death.
On June 1, 1968 he married his wife of 55 years, Arleta Schlabach of Clinton Township.
Arleta survives along with five children, Kevin (Karilyn), Keith (Kim), Kenton (Jenny), Daniel, Crystal; grandchildren, Phillip (fiance Katrina Rios) Kilmer, Katelyn Kilmer, Madilyn Kilmer, Julie Barnet, Jasen Woodrum, Ethen Woodrum; step-grandchildren, Chris (Kirsten) Stutzman, Kyle Stutzman, and Dylan Lackey and Nathan Henniges; step-great-grandchild Davian; beloved sister, Wanda Cross, sister-in-law, Kate (Delbert) Yoder and brother-in-law, Charlie Smith.
He was preceded in death by his brothers, Delbert Yoder and Ralph Kilmer, sisters, Marcia Kilmer and Connie Smith, and brother-in-law, Al (Wanda) Cross.
Phill worked several careers from a hospital orderly in Flint, Michigan as his alternative service in the mid 60s, to a certified nursing assistant at Greencroft where he retired. In between he was a bank teller, office manager, bookkeeper, and receptionist. His first job was catching chickens for Ezra Schlabach and that is how he met Arleta.
Phill was a member of the Benton Mennonite Church where he served in several positions. He was a 31 year veteran of the Benton Township Fire Department where he also served as an Emergency Medical Technician for 20 years.
Phill had many interests from drawing and art to architecture. He enjoyed woodworking and built several pieces of furniture that are treasured by his family today. One of his greatest passions was working his hobby farm and raising Belgian horses.
But it was his relationships with people that Phill will be most remembered. He was a husband, father, son, brother, cousin, uncle, friend, and, most importantly, grandpa. He occupied these roles completely and relished each relationship. If you were lucky enough to know Phill, he made sure you knew you were special.
Visitation will be Monday, February 6, 2023 from 2 to 8 p.m. at Yoder-Culp Funeral Home.
The casket will be closed after the Monday visitation. Friends will also be received Tuesday, February 7 from 10 until the 11 a.m. funeral service at Benton Mennonite Church. Pastor Brenda Meyer will officiate.
Burial will follow at Benton Lutheran Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Benton Volunteer Fire Department.
Kilmer, Rufus B.
February 20, 1958 - December 17, 2023
Rufus B. Kilmer, 65 years 9 months 27 days, of Latham, MO, passed peacefully on December 17, 2023. He was born February 20, 1958, in Bowmansville, PA the son of Martin and Mary (Brubacher) Kilmer.
He was united in marriage on Nov. 19, 1981, to Martha Hoover, who survives of the home.
Along with his wife; he is survived by 4 Sons, Arnold David (Minerva) Kilmer California, MO, Philip James (Susan) Kilmer of Latham, MO, Kevin Leroy Kilmer of Latham, MO, Willard Aaron (Regina) Kilmer of Versailles MO; 3 daughters, Evelyn Berneice (Marvin) Shirk of Latham, MO, Maria Alice (John Daniel) Zimmerman of Barnett, MO, and Lena Jane Kilmer of Latham, MO; 24 grandchildren; 1 brother, Harvey (Judy) Kilmer of California, MO; 2 sisters, Nancy (David) Ramer of Indiana, Fannie (Eddie) Martin of Michigan; 2 sisters - in - law, Ella Kilmer and Annie Kilmer, both of Versailles, MO.
He was preceded in death by his parents; 4 brothers, Adin Kilmer, William Kilmer, Menno Kilmer, and Eli Kilmer; 5 sisters, Lydia Sauder, Emma Kilmer, Amanda Burkholder, Lucinda Baker, and Anna Mary Kilmer.
Visitation will be held at the family home on Wednesday, December 20, 2023, from 2-4 PM and 5-7 PM. The Funeral Service will be on Thursday, December 21, 2023, at 9:30 AM at Sunny Meadow Mennonite Church with Raymond Shirk, Ivan Hurst, Elmer Leid, and Curvin Zimmerman officiating. The interment will be at Sunny Meadow Mennonite Cemetery. Arrangements are under the direction of Windmill Ridge Funeral Service, California, MO.
King, Larry Dean
April 6, 1974 - January 10, 2023
Larry Dean King, 48, of Middlebury (district: 62-2), died at 3:00 pm on Tuesday, January 10, [2023] at his residence. He was born on April 6, 1974, in Goshen, to Melvin B. and Wilma (Mast) King. On June 3, 1997, in Middlebury, he married Carolyn Yoder she survives.
Survivors in addition to his wife are two sisters, Dora Ann (Verlin) Schrock of Middlebury, Frieda (Nelson) Mullet of Middlebury; four brothers, Marlin (Carla) King of Middlebury, Gerald (Rose Mary) King of Topeka, Lamar (Linda) King of Shipshewana, Ivan (Amy) King of Middlebury; Sister-in-law, Janice (William Jr.) Yoder of Goshen; 17 nieces and 18 nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Maynard Jay King; four nieces and two nephews. Larry was a dishwasher at Essenhaus for five years and was a member of the Old Order Amish Church.
Visitation will be after 2:00 pm on Wednesday January 11, and all-day Thursday, January 12, at the Nelson Mullet Residence: 60151 E. County Line Road, Middlebury. Funeral services will be at 9:30 am on Friday, January 13, at the same residence. Services will be conducted by Bishop LeRoy D. Lehman and the home ministers. Burial will be in Bontrager Cemetery, Middlebury. Miller-Stewart Funeral Home in Middlebury is in charge of arrangements.
Knicely, Anna Rebecca Showalter
December 9, 1940 - October 20, 2023
Anna Rebecca Showalter Knicely, 82, a resident of Dayton, Va., passed away peacefully at her home on Oct. 20, 2023.
Mrs. Knicely was born Dec. 9, 1940, in Rockingham County and was a daughter of the late Warren C. and Ina Rebecca Koogler Showalter.
She was a homemaker and a member of Pleasant View Old Order Mennonite Church.
On Nov. 7, 1962, she married Joseph D. Knicely, who survives.
Also surviving are her three daughters, Karen Knicely of Dayton, Kathryn Good and husband, Bruce, of Dayton and Eleanor Shank and husband, Dale, of Bridgewater; and one son, Stuart Knicely and wife, Martha, of Rockingham. She was preceded in death by a son, Mark Sanford, on April 21, 1976.
She is also survived by 14 grandchildren, Luanna, Carlton, Rosina and Sonya Knicely, Christopher, Patrick, Veronica, Alexander, and Madison Good, Jefferson Shank, Janine Knicely and husband, Layne, Pamela Showalter and husband Joshua, Lenora and Elliott Shank.
Mrs. Knicely is also survived by seven sisters, Martha Knicely of Hinton, Betty Witmer of Port Republic, Mary Catherine Showalter of Rockingham, Reba Rhodes (Leroy) of Bridgewater, Ina Ethel Showalter (Kenneth) of Mount Crawford, Lula Hofer (Paul) of Raymond, Alberta, Sarah Showalter (Michael) of Bridgewater; one brother, Galen Showalter (Janet) of Dayton; and sister-in-law, Martha Knicely of Dayton.
In addition to her son, Mrs. Knicely was preceded in death by her in-laws, John R. and Amy Knicely; one sister, Edith Good and husband, Lewis, brothers-in-law, James Knicely, Joseph Witmer, Edwin Knicely, Dwight Knicely; and sisters-in-law, Dorothy Knicely and Eunice Knicely.
The family received friends Sunday afternoon and will receive friends Monday with viewing hours from 2 p.m. until 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. at her home, 778 Bank Church Road, Dayton.
The ministers of the church will conduct a funeral service Tuesday, Oct. 24, 2023, at 10:30 a.m. at the Pleasant View Mennonite Church. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.
Knicely, Mabel Jane
April 16, 1952 - February 6, 2023
Mabel Jane Knicely, 70, of Mount Crawford, passed away Monday, Feb. 6, 2023, at her home. She was born April 16, 1952, and was a daughter of the late Herman Wilson and Esther Virginia (Heatwole) Knicely.
Mabel retired from Dynamic Aviation. She was a member of Dayton Mennonite Church.
Mabel is survived by four sisters, Hazel Shirk of Rockingham, Rhoda Showalter and husband, Larry, of Seneca Rocks, W.Va., Fay Brubaker and husband, Harold, of Harrisonburg, and Elsie Showalter and husband, Robert, of Broadway; and two brothers, Boyd Knicely and wife, Mabel, of Weyers Cave and Wade Knicely and wife, Rhoda, of Mount Crawford. She is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her sister, Stella Knicely; brother, Fred Knicely and wife, Dawn; brother-in-law, Mervin Shirk; and great-niece, Christine Hobbs.
A service celebrating Mabel's life will be held Feb. 10, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. at Dayton Mennonite Church with Linden Rhodes and Dale Brubaker officiating.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to First Choice Hospice, 1819 Virginia Ave., Harrisonburg, VA 22802.
Arrangements are entrusted to Johnson Funeral and Cremation Service in Bridgewater.
Krabill, Elizabeth "Betty" Biggs Johnston
July 16, 1927 - July 30, 2023
Elizabeth “Betty” Biggs Johnston Krabill peacefully passed away Sunday, July 30, 2023 in Wooster.
Betty was born on July 16,1927 in Coshocton, Ohio to A. Roy and Isabel (Randles) Biggs. She was the second of four Biggs children and spent her childhood in Coshocton. On July 20, 1947, she married Jack Johnston. They had 3 children together.
In 1959, Jack and Betty purchased the funeral home in Shreve which became Johnston Funeral Home. Both were actively involved in the Shreve-Triwaycommunity until Jack's passing on September 3,1976. Betty married Harold Krabill on October 10, 1981. With her marriage to Harold, she gained 3 more children. Betty was an active member of the Oak Grove Mennonite Church involved in many aspects including teaching Sunday School, Stephens Ministry, Search for the Christ Child, and the quilting group.
Betty is survived by her children Shelley (Glenn) Bower, David Johnston, Jay (Ruth) Johnston, Bob Krabill, Sue (Tom) Giere, Diane (James) Smith, daughter-in-law Elaine Johnston; her grandchildren Laurie Bower, Jacklyn (Keith) Endslow, Adrienne (David) Harmon, Abby (Sam)
McGrath, Leah Johnston, Ruthy Butler, Rand Whalen, Rhiannon (James) Whalen-Harris, Nicholas Veith; great grandchildren Hannah and Natalie Endslow, James and Graham Harmon, Rosie and Ellie McGrath, Eliza Butler, Emma (Alex) Yost, Kollen (Sofia) Butler and her sister and brother-in-law Marge and Jon Els and many nieces and nephews.
Betty is preceded in death by her parents, husband Jack Johnston, husband Harold Krabill, sister and brother-in-law Jean and Sonny Lower, brother and sister-in-law Sonny and Ann Biggs, her great grandsons, Jacob and Justin Endslow, and great-great grandson, Jaxon Butler.
The family would like to thank to the staff of Lifecare Hospice, Danbury Senior Living, Bloomington Home Helpers, special friends Marilyn Jaquet and Helen Gray for all of the wonderful care and kindness they have given to Betty and her family.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that contributions made to: Lifecare Hospice 1900 Akron Rd. Wooster, Ohio 44691 or Oak Grove Mennonite Church 7843 Smucker Rd. Smithville, Ohio 44677.
Calling hours will be from 10am to 12pm on Saturday, August 5, 2023 with the funeral following at 12pm at Oak Grove Mennonite Church in Smithville, Ohio with Rev. Jennifer Darling-Mellott officiating. Interment will be at Oak Grove Cemetery in Shreve, Ohio. Murray Funeral Home is handling arrangement.
Krabill, Grace Ellen Hershberger
August 23, 1933 - October 3, 2023
Grace Ellen Krabill, 90, of Goshen passed away Tuesday, October 3, [2023] after several months of failing health.
She was born August 23, 1933 in Goshen to Glen and Dula (Roth) Hershberger.
On July 31, 1955 she married Dr. Willard S. Krabill in Goshen. He died January 6, 2009.
Grace is survived by four children, Merrill (Clare) Krabill of Goshen; Jeannie (Phil) Miller of Goshen; Karen (Scot Yoder) Krabill of Mason, Michigan; and Ron (Nancy Chupp) Krabill of Seattle, Washington; 12 grandchildren; two great-grandchildren and two sisters, Mabel Emmert of Sweet Home, Oregon and Joy Wyse of Newcomerstown, Ohio.
She graduated from Goshen High School in 1951 and from Goshen College in 1955. She volunteered with MCC in Vietnam for three years from 1955-1958.
Grace was a member of College Mennonite Church and enjoyed quilting, reading, tennis, and being in nature, especially birds. After being born in Goshen, she lived in the Washington, D.C. area for several years before returning to the area as a teenager. Along with Willard and her family, she spent time living in California, Chicago, Taiwan, and China, though Goshen was always home, and the Goshen College community was always an important part of her life. Grace delighted in spending time with family and watching her grandchildren grow.
A memorial service will be held at 2pm on Saturday, October 14, 2023 at College Mennonite Church with Rev. Pamela Yoder officiating. Visiting hours will be held at the church before the service beginning at 12:30pm.
Memorial donations may be given to MCC, PO Box 500, Akron, PA 17501; https://mcc.org/ or ADEC, 19670 State Rd. 120, Bristol, IN 46507; https://adecinc.com/.
Yoder-Culp Funeral Home is assisting with arrangements.
Kramer, Mary Ellen Miller
June 29, 1930 - January 24, 2023
Mary Ellen Kramer, age 92 of Bremen, IN, died at 1:40 pm on Tuesday, January 24, 2023 at her residence. She was born on June 29, 1930 to Levi I. and Fannie (Yutzy) Miller in Plain City, OH.
On May 10, 1951 Mary Ellen married Joe J. Kramer in Plain City, OH. He preceded her in death on October 4, 2004. Mary Ellen was a member of the Old Order Amish Church.
She leaves to mourn her departure, 4 children: Herman (Vera Kauffman) Kramer of London, OH, Martha (Tobias, Jr.) Borkholder of Nappanee, IN, Mary Lou (Perry) Bontrager of LaGrange, IN, and Melvin (Rosetta Borkholder) Kramer of Bremen; 1 son-in-law, Larry Newell of Plain City, OH; 22 grandchildren; 68 great grandchildren; 1 great-great grandchild; and 1 sister-in-law, Polly Hostetler of Plain City, OH.
Mary Ellen was preceded in death by her parents; husband; 2 brothers; a sister; a daughter, Anna Mae Newell, and a great granddaughter, Emily Jane Kramer. V
isitation will be held after 2 pm, Wednesday, January 25, 2023, and all day, Thursday, January 26, 2023 at the Melvin Kramer residence (6611 Cedar Road, Bremen, IN 46506). A funeral service will begin at 9:30 am on Friday, January 27, 2023, also at the Melvin Kramer residence, with Home Ministries of the Old Order Amish Church officiating. Burial will take place in Cedar Road Cemetery, Bremen, IN. Arrangements are with Thompson-Lengacher and Yoder Funeral Home, Nappanee.
Thompson-Lengacher & Yoder Funeral Homes
Nappanee/Wakarusa, IN
Submitted by: Thelma Hoover Martin
Kraybill, Barbara Ann Keener
October 29, 1942 - January 3, 2023
Barbara Ann Kraybill, 80, of New Holland entered into the presence of Jesus on January 3, 2023. Barbara married Nevin M. Kraybill on June 16,1962 and together they created many wonderful memories during their 60 years of marriage. Born on October 29, 1942, she was the daughter of the late Clyde and Alma Keener.
Barbara passionately loved Jesus, was always reading books and listening to speakers as she pursued God. She was a prayer warrior and faithfully prayed daily for her whole family. She was active in her churches (Elizabethtown Mennonite and Bethany Grace Fellowship) serving in Sunday School, women's Bible studies, Mothers & Others, and mentoring women. Barbara lived a full life. She and Nevin served at Shirati Hospital and Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Center in Tanzania for twelve years. They also served at the Mennonite Guest House, Nairobi, Kenya. One of her lifelong memories was climbing to the top of the 20,000-foot Mt. Kilimanjaro. East Africa always held a special place in her heart, the birthplace of three of her four children. As an LPN, Barbara worked in a variety of health care settings, extending love to each person she cared for.
Barbara loved her four children and eleven grandchildren. Each one brought joy to her and she cherished every opportunity to spend time with them. Barbara also enjoyed sunrises, sunsets and the beauty of creation, often found caring for her plants and later in life, caring for her cats.
In addition to her loving husband, Barbara is survived by her children: Terry (Dave Rice), Williamsburg, PA; Rose (John Sauder), Leola, PA; Marcella (John Kraybill-Greggo), Bethlehem, PA; Rodney Kraybill (Lori Rondeau), Bologna, Italy. Her grandchildren: Anthony Rice, Yolanda Rice, Jesse Bender-Rice (Mikaela Bender), Austin Rice, Vannika Rice, Kaitlin (Steve Manbeck), Alison
(Joshua Stoltzfus), Hannah Kraybill-Greggo, Alanna Kraybill, Autumn (Jean Bezerra), and Anissa Kraybill. Barbara is also survived by her siblings: Betty (Lester Miller), J. Clyde Keener (Vera Stoltzfus).
Relatives and friends are invited to attend Barbara's memorial service at Bethany Grace Fellowship, 400 Reading Road East Earl, PA 17519 on January 6, 2023, at 10:30 AM. There will be a time for visitation with the family on January 5, 2023, from 6 - 8 PM at the church, and also before the service 9:30 AM 10:00 AM. Interment will be private with the family.
In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts in Barbara's memory may be given to: Friends of Shirati Hospital, PO Box 10903, Lancaster, PA 1760 or online at www.friendsofshirati.org or https://usgiving.aimint.org/missionary/1038220.
The Groff-High Funeral Home, New Holland, is in charge of arrangements.
Kreider, Amy Louise Groff
October 14, 1929 - October 22, 2023
Amy Louise Kreider, 94, formerly of Quarryville, passed from this life to the arms of Jesus on Sunday, October 22, 2023, at Landis Homes Communities in Lititz. She grew up in Strasburg, the daughter of the late Abram and Miriam (Metzler) Groff. She was preceded in death by her husband, Ellis D. Kreider, formerly of Quarryville.
Amy learned the tasks of farm and home while growing up on her family's farm in Strasburg. She was a part of one of the first classes to graduate at the newly formed Lancaster Mennonite High School. After marriage, Amy moved to Quarryville and devoted her life to the care of her family and support of her husband in the family dairy farm, and in Ellis' ministry at Mechanic Grove Mennonite Church.
She was not comfortable in the spotlight, but was an excellent listener and very caring and enjoyed connecting behind the scenes. She valued education and reading to and with her children. As a result, her home was filled with books, as are the homes of her children. She chose a life of contentment, not motivated by money or status. She also enjoyed gardening, the care of both flowers and vegetables. Her quiet grace and loving spirit are already missed by those who knew her.
Amy leaves behind three sons: Carl (Marylin Ott) of Quarryville, Wayne (Carla Kirkalde) of Quarryville and Bruce (Beverly Stoltzfus) of Marietta and five grandchildren: Andrew (Sarah Rathbun) Kreider of Baltimore, MD, Jonathan Kreider of Quarryville, Kyle Kreider of Manhattan, NY, David Kreider of Lititz and Anna Kreider of Quarryville. She was preceded in death by her siblings, Anna Martha Denlinger, Harold Groff, and Stanley Groff.
The family would like to thank the staff at Landis Homes for their care over the past year as Amy's health declined.
A Funeral Service will take place at Mechanic Grove Mennonite Church, 735 Church Rd., Quarryville, PA on Saturday, October 28, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. The family will receive friends at the church from 9:30-11:00 a.m. Interment will follow the service in the adjoining church cemetery.
Kreider, Lois J. Longenecker
March 10, 1929 - December 15, 2023
Lois J. Kreider, 94, of Elizabethtown, went home to be with the Lord on Friday, December 15, 2023 at Pleasant View Retirement Community, Manheim. Born Sunday, March 10, 1929 in Elizabethtown, she was the daughter of the late Phares and Kathryn (Hersh) Longenecker. She was married 53 years to Wilmer H. Kreider who passed away in October 2004.
A farm wife most of her life, she and her late husband farmed Lois' family homestead. She was a member of Bossler Mennonite Church, Elizabethtown and was known as a prayer warrior for her family and friends. She loved gardening and flowers and enjoyed trips to Longwood Gardens. Lois also enjoyed walking in the woods, collecting seashells, and nature as a whole.
Surviving are three children: James W. Kreider and wife Janie of Placentia, CA; Jean E. Breneman and husband Ken of Elizabethtown and J. Richard Kreider and wife Peg of Elizabethtown; thirteen grandchildren, seventeen great-grandchildren, and a brother Wilmer Longenecker and wife Rhoda of Landisville. Lois was predeceased by a son Leslie E. Kreider, a daughter Carol L. Leigh, a grandson James Tyler; and four siblings: Esther Hiestand, and Becky, Howard and Phares Longenecker.
Viewing will be held on Thursday, December 21, 2023 at Miller-Finkenbinder Funeral Home, 130 North Market Street, Elizabethtown, PA 17022 from 5:30- 7:00 PM. Interment will be private. A Celebration of Lois' life will take place on Saturday, January 27, 2024 at Bossler Mennonite Church, 2021 Bossler Road, Elizabethtown, PA 17022 at 10:00 AM.
Kropf, Owen James
June 21, 1943 - September 13, 2023
Owen James Kropf was born on June 21, 1943 to Elmer and Orpha Kropf in Eugene, Oregon. God called him home, Wednesday morning, September 13, 2023 at the age of 80. A Viewing will be held at the Grande Ronde Mennonite Church, 69371 Lantz Lane, Cove, OR on Sunday, September 17, 2023 4:00-7:00pm. The Funeral Service will be held at the Island City Lighthouse Pentecostal Church on Monday, September 18, 2023 at 10:00am.
Owen gave his heart to the Lord at age 14. At the age of 17, he moved with is parents from Harrisburg, OR, to McBride, British Columbia. While living there, he met Ella Rose Torkelson and married her on September 20, 1963. They were married one week short of 60 years when he passed away. To their union was born 11 children. They lived in McBride British Columbia and dairied there for 8 years. In 1971, they moved to Duchess, Alberta, farming and raising their family of 11 children. They lived there for 17 years before moving to La Grande, OR in 1988, where he was living till present.
Owen is survived by his wife, Ella and children; Louise Troyer (John) of Lebanon, OR, Beverly Hertzler (Steve) of Tremonton, UT, Janice Brandt (Mark) of La Grande, OR, Jeffrey Kropf (Laura) of Cove, OR, James Kropf (Lynette) of Union, OR, Shirley Martens (Peter) of Cove, OR, John Kropf (Sara) of Ritter, OR, Margaret Good (Joe) of Grandin, MO, Jerry Kropf (Lori) Ritter of OR, Steve Kropf (Lorraine) of Cove, OR; sister, Barbara Maldaner (Brian) of Tilley, Alberta; brother, Ellis Kropf (Ruth) of Tilley, Alberta; 59 grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Elmer and Orpha Kropf and his son, Barry, who died in 2002.
Owen will be missed as a quiet loving father and husband, and also for his steady influence in the church. His greatest desire was that his children and grandchildren would be faithful to the Lord.
We as a family want to express our gratefulness for your prayers, sympathy, and practical expressions of love during this time. You have made our load much lighter, and we pray God will bless you for it.
Kuhns, David Lynn
March 11, 1964 - July 28, 2023
David Lynn Kuhns 59, of rural Sullivan, Illinois, passed away at 7:56 P.M. on Friday, July 28, 2023 at his residence, surrounded by family.
Visitation will be held from 6:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. on Sunday, July 30, 2023 at Sunnyside Mennonite Church in rural Arcola, Illinois. Visitation will also be held from 2:00 P.M. to 4:00 P.M. and from 6:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. on Monday, July 31, 2033 at Sunnyside.
Funeral services will be held at 10:30 A.M. on Tuesday, August 1, 2023 at Sunnyside Mennonite Church. Pastor Duane Kuhns will officiate. Burial will be in the Sunnyside Mennonite Church Cemetery.
David was born on March 11, 1964 in Mattoon, Illinois, a son of Menno and Alma (Kauffman) Kuhns. He married Dawn Renee Hershberger on February 15, 1986 in Nappanee, Indiana.
David is survived by his wife, Dawn; four children, Jeremy Kuhns and his wife Sara, Jonny Kuhns and his wife Verna, Jessica Kuhns, and Janell Kuhns all of Sullivan, IL, six grandchildren, Tiara and Koleton Kuhns and Angela, Stephanie, Alyssa and Ethan “Bubby” Kuhns; two sisters, Irene Kuhns and, Edna Kuhns both of Arthur, IL, two sisters-in-law, Anna Kuhns, of Belleville, PA, and Leona Kuhns of Sullivan, IL, and his mother-in-law, Ida Mae Hershberger.
David was preceded in death by his parents, Menno and Alma (Kauffman) Kuhns, stepmother, Esther (Herschberger) Kuhns, two brothers, Willard Kuhns and Edwin Kuhns. And his father-in-law, Eugene Hershberger.
David was a member of Living Word Fellowship in Arthur, Illinois.
David drove a semi for over 15 years. The past year and a half he has driven for Chesterville Trucking.
David enjoyed fishing, camping, singing, spending time with friends, family, and especially his grandchildren.
To honor David, his family will be playing some of his favorite songs during the visitation and funeral.
Edwards Funeral Home, Arcola, Illinois is assisting with arrangements.
Kulp, Florence Horst
August 18, 1933 - November 11, 2023
Florence (Horst) Kulp, age 90, of Goshen, IN, died peacefully in her sleep on Saturday, November 11, 2023 at Elkhart General Hospital. She was born August 18, 1933 in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, to Barton and Lydia (Zimmerman) Horst. On February 6, 1954 she was united in marriage to Isaac E. Kulp, who preceded her in death on October 22, 2017. She was a member of the Wisler Mennonite Church.
Florence is survived by four children: Mary Ann (Keith) Martin of Sauk Centre, MN, Virginia (LaVerne) Hoover of Elkhart, IN, Luella (Larry) Zimmerman of Elkhart, IN, and James (Malinda) Kulp of Unity, WI; one son-in-law, Ray (Jeanie) Hoover of Spencer, WI; 33 grandchildren; 119 great-grandchildren; and one great-great grandson.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; one daughter, Elsie Hoover; one granddaughter, Lana Martin, and 3 great-great grandchildren: Kiana Martin, Wyatt Troyer, and Art Martin.
Visitation will be held from 1-4 and 6-8 pm on Monday, November 13, 2023 at the Ramer Mennonite Youth Center (24717 Co Rd 44, Nappanee, IN 46550). Funeral services will be held at 10 am on Tuesday, November 14, 2023 at the Wisler Mennonite Church (25012 Co Rd 38, Goshen, IN 46526) with Home Ministries of the Wisler Mennonite Church officiating. Burial will be in Wisler Mennonite Church Cemetery.
Kurtz, Evan Blake
December 22, 2023 - December 26, 2023
Evan Blake Kurtz, four-day-old son of Arlen James and Carolyn Sue (Miller) Kurtz, of Topeka, (district: 19), died at 3:20 pm on Tuesday, December 26 at Memorial Hospital, South Bend. He was born on December 22, 2023, in Goshen.
Survivors in addition to his parents are grandparents, Vernon and Dorthy Kurtz of Topeka, Orva Jr. and Edna Miller of Middlebury; great-grandparents, Christy and Carolyn Lambright of Middlebury; two step great-grandmothers, Mary Kurtz of Topeka, LaVerda Miller of Shipshewana; and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his great-grandparents, Jacob and Mary Kurtz, Orva P. and Ella Miller, Olen and Barbara Miller.
Visitation will be after 2:00 pm on Wednesday, December 27 and all-day Thursday, December 28 at the Vernon Kurtz residence, 5765 W. 400 S., Topeka. Funeral services will be at 9:30 am on Friday, December 29 at the same residence. Services will be conducted by Bishop Martin Lambright and the home ministers. Burial will be in Hawpatch Cemetery, Topeka. Miller-Stewart Funeral Home, Middlebury, is assisting the family with arrangements.