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.
2024
W
Weaver, Arthur D.
August 25, 1953 - March 14, 2024
Arthur D. Weaver, 70, of Apple Creek passed away on Thursday, March 14, 2024 at his home.
He was born in Wooster on August 25, 1953 to the late Atlee and Vera (Kandel) Weaver.
Art owned and operated the Apple Creek Drive Thru for many years and was a retired bus driver for Southeast Local Schools. He was a retired member of the Apple Creek Fire Department and was the 1996 Apple Creek Citizen of the Year.
He is survived by his wife, Mandy; children, Jeremy (Heather) Weaver of Fredericksburg, Ben Weaver of Wooster, and Lacey (Nate) Chupp of Goshen, IN; step-children, Tyler (Katie) Sidle of Apple Creek, Emily (Tyler) Ayers of Bolivar, and Nolan Royse of Apple Creek; grandchildren, Zion, Tristan, Ryker, Julie, and Silas; step-grandchildren, Lincoln and Easton; siblings, Ruby Kuhns, Ivan (Joyce) Weaver, Alice (John) Shetler, Mary Helen (Dick) Heinbaugh, Shirley (Dave) Troyer, Harold (Lisa) Weaver, and John (Deb) Weaver; brothers-in-law, Freeman (Minerva) Miller, and Simon Ng.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by sisters, Betty Troyer, Miriam Ng, and Loretta Miller.
Memorial services will be held on Wednesday, March 20, 2024 at 11:00 am at Fairlawn Mennonite Church, 8520 Emerson Road, Apple Creek, with Pastor David Hargrave officiating. Graveside services will be held prior at 10:00 am at the Apple Creek Cemetery. Friends may call Tuesday, March 19, 2024 from 6-8:00 pm at the church. Spidell Funeral Home in Mount Eaton is handling the arrangements.
Weaver, Elaine Groff
January 5, 1950 - April 4, 2024
Elaine G. Weaver, 74, of Kinzers, passed away on Thursday, April 4, 2024, at Lancaster General Hospital. She was married 54 years to John D. Weaver. Born in Lancaster, she was the daughter of the late J. Martin and Mary Edna Martin Groff.
Elaine was a homemaker and a member of the Pequea Mennonite Church, Weaverland Conference.
Surviving besides her husband is a daughter, Sharon wife of Troy Weiler of Akron; two sons, Gerald husband of Marlene Weaver of Stevens, and Wilbur husband of Marlene Weaver of New Holland; 10 grandchildren, 8 great-grandchildren; two brothers, Kenneth husband of Irene Groff of Farmersville, and Kevin husband of Judy Groff of Manheim; three sisters, Alverta wife of Ervin Martin of Mohnton, Marlene wife of Stephen Martin of Myerstown, and Karen wife of Glenn Musser of Bethel; and a brother-in-law, Marlin Weaver of Stevens. She was preceded in death by a stillborn son and a sister, Edith Weaver.
A Funeral Service will be held on Wednesday, April 10, at 10:00 AM at the Pequea Mennonite Church, 4107 Red Well Drive, Gordonville, PA with Bishop Curvin Zimmerman officiating. Interment in the adjoining church cemetery. Viewings will be held on Tuesday, April 9, from 2:00 to 4:00 PM and 6:00 to 8:00 PM at the Martindale Mennonite Fellowship Center, 352 Martindale Road, Ephrata, PA. Arrangements by the Groff High Funeral Home, New Holland, PA.
Weaver, Daniel B.
June 14, 1943 - January 27, 2024
Daniel B. Weaver “Benja Dan” 80, of 8770 TR 323, Holmesville, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family at the Pomerene Hospital Hospice Unit on Saturday, January 27, 2024 following a brief illness. He was born on June 14, 1943 to the late Ben J. and Anna (Weaver) Weaver. On December 15, 1966 he married Barbara Weaver who survives. Daniel was a retired farmer and a member of the Old Order Amish Church where he served as Bishop since October of 1985.
In addition to his wife Barbara he is survived by his children, Merle (Wanda) Weaver of Shreve, Irene (Marvin) Miller of Holmesville, Miriam (Vernon) Yoder of Holmesville, Allen (Rosanna) Weaver of the home, Marvin (Naomi) Weaver of Holmesville, Susan (David) Yoder of Candor, NY, Arie Weaver of the home and Mary (Ivan Ray) Raber of Holmesville; 40 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; brothers and sisters, Roy (late Susan) Weaver, Pete (Freida) Weaver, Lester (Ruth) Weaver, Malva (Biena) Weaver, Lydia Ann (Wayne E.) Miller; brothers and sisters-in-law, Roy M. (late Fannie) Weaver, Esther (late John) Weaver, Katie (late Robert) Weaver and Verna (late Ben Jr.) Weaver.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Lester; grandson, Jeremy Weaver; brothers and sisters, Fannie, John, Susie (Henry) Yoder, Sarah, Robert and Ben Jr..
Funeral services will be held at the home on Tuesday, January 30, at 9:00 AM with Bishop Merle A. Miller officiating. Burial will follow in the Sunny Slope Cemetery. Friends may call at the home after 2 PM on Sunday and any time on Monday. A special thank you to the staff at Pomerene Hospital and Ohio's Hospice LifeCare for their care and also to Roy and Jen for their assistance.
Miller Funeral Care – Walnut Creek, OH 330-893-2273.
Weaver, Glenn Irvin
November 1, 1935 - March 7, 2024
On March 7, 2024, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, and friend to many, Glenn Irvin Weaver took his first breath in Heaven at 8:55 pm. He was surrounded by his wife, children, and some grandchildren. He was born to Oscar and Inez (Wenger) Weaver on November 1, 1935, in Goshen. On June 1, 1957, Glenn married Anna Mae Troyer in Middlebury. She passed away on January 19, 1971. On December 11, 1971, in Buffalo, NY, he married Sara Lorraine Leatherman.
He is survived by his wife, Sara; five children, Cynthia (David) Whip of Wayland, MI, Valerie (Wes) Culver of Bristol, Kimberly Christner of Elkhart, Michael (Barb) Weaver of White Pigeon, MI, Justin (Lyz) Weaver of White Pigeon, MI; fourteen grandchildren, Taylor Herendeen, Chad Culver, Craig (Devon) Culver, Chelsea (Jacob) Eaton, Cydney Culver, Jaiden (Brian Yoder, fiance) Christner, Kohle (Samantha) Christner, Kelby (Dennis Wingard, special friend) Christner, Brandon (Jessica) Weaver, Mckenzie Weaver, Kasey Weaver, Nicholas Weaver, Emily Weaver, Alec (Olivia) Weaver; 14 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his first wife, Anna Mae; parents, Oscar and Inez; two sisters, Anna Hunsberger and Fern Witmer; two brothers, Lowell E. and Robert Weaver; and a grandson, Chad Culver, who passed away in 2002.
Glenn graduated from Wakarusa High School. He was in Ann Arbor and worked in the hospital for his 1W service after graduating. Glenn knew no strangers; he was a very caring and compassionate person. He lived out his faith by helping many friends and going on many Mennonite Disaster mission trips, to Haiti, Honduras, and other areas around the country. He was a member of the First Mennonite Church in Middlebury.
He was a very skilled craftsman, general contractor, and later transitioned to custom trim carpentry. He was a woodworking artist and made many things out of wood, some including marble boards, wood trick puzzles, whittled wooden chains, and most recently beautiful wooden bowls on his lathe. He was very active and enjoyed singing, fishing and spending time with his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren, putting puzzles together, playing cards, and visiting with friends. He also kept laughter alive by playing pranks on people. Glenn is already missed by his family.
Visitation will be from 3:00 - 7:00 pm on Monday, March 11, at Miller-Stewart Funeral Home, 1003 South Main Street, Middlebury. There will be another visitation from 9:00 – 10:00 am Tuesday, March 12, at First Mennonite Church, 203 E Lawrence St, Middlebury; where family and friends will gather to go in procession to the 10:15 am graveside service at Grace Lawn Cemetery, Middlebury. A celebration of life service will follow at 11:00 am at the church. Services will be conducted by Pastor Phil Yoder. Memorials may be given to the Mennonite Disaster Service or Cancer Resources for Elkhart County.
Weaver, Irvin David
April 26, 1929 - January 3, 2024
Quote from Irv Weaver, December 31, 2023
“God has put me in pleasant places, and I’m blessed beyond measure.”
Irvin David Weaver was born April 26, 1929. He was the son of Levi Martin Weaver and Elsie Nolt Weaver and was married to Katherine Phenneger Weaver on April 17, 1949. He and Kitty had 10 children together. Their parental efforts and love created a tightknit extended family.
His steadfast appreciation for God’s blessing could not go unnoticed. Irv's genuine smile, joyful heart and hearty handshake revealed this whenever he greeted you. Irv committed to helping people his whole life through social services and ministry using them as a pathway to share God's grace and love. Irv always had an optimistic and humorous spirit. He was positive in all situations, competitive, and athletic. Many Sunday afternoons were spent playing outdoor games with family and friends ending with a bowl of homemade ice cream. He was a runner and golfer and continued this commitment to health & wellness during his time at Virginia Mennonite Retirement Community. Many mornings he began his day working out at the fitness center and enjoying coffee with his friends - an important social highlight of his time at VMRC.
His audacious faith led him to follow the beacon of God’s calling. At the age of 21 he left a comfortable life on the family farm in Lancaster to attend Eastern Mennonite College - taking his new wife and 5-month-old daughter along. After receiving his Bible Degree in 1954, he and his brother Levi moved to Bath, NY to farm and founded the Pleasant Valley Mennonite Church. Turning to church development and social work, he continued to serve the Lord in every place God led him. His path was often challenging, as his life experiences ranged from farming, trucking, prison ministry, and serving as the Family Services Director and marriage counselor in Corning NY.
He later returned to church work as the Alleghany Conference Minister and then the Vice-President of Home Missions in Elkhart, IN for the Mennonite Board of Missions. Everywhere he went, Irv spread the love of our Lord with unwavering faith.
He is survived by his sister, H. Lorraine Weaver; his children Susan L. Halterman, husband Bernie; D. Paul Weaver; Phyllis M. Thomas, husband Alfred; Dale P. Weaver; Douglas P. Weaver, wife Sandra; Marcia W. Jones and husband Kevin; Dean M. Weaver’s spouse, Andrea Stoltzfus Weaver; Kay W. Lera and husband Robert; his grandchildren and great-grand children: Kristin (Halterman) Marriage and husband Chris and their children (Isla, Julian and Estelle); Maxximillian Thomas, Alex Thomas; Benjamin Weaver, Katrina (Weaver) Ferrario and husband Adam, Leslie Weaver; Joshua Weaver and wife Michelle and their child (Genevieve Grace), Zachary Weaver; Garyn Jones and wife Missy Neis, Hannah Jones and husband John Lange; Chloe Weaver, Sophie Weaver, Kate Weaver and Luke Weaver.
He was preceded in death by his sisters, Grace Graybill, Miriam Shoup, Ruth Esh; his brother Levi H. Weaver and two children early in life Judy, and David and, more recently, by his beloved wife Kitty and son Dean Mark Weaver of Harrisonburg Virginia.
A memorial service will be held on Thursday, January 11, 2024, at 11 a.m. at Detwiler Auditorium at VMRC. The family will receive friends following the service.
Burial will be held privately.
In lieu of flowers and gifts, please send donations to the VMRC Good Samaritan Fund, 1501 Virginia Avenue, Harrisonburg, VA 22802 or the Lindale Mennonite Church Deacon Sharing Fund, 6255 Jesse Bennett Way, Linville, VA 22834. Both funds provide direct assistance to those in need.
McMullen Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Weaver, Luke L.
September 19, 1938 - March 3, 2024
Luke L. Weaver, 85, of Ephrata, passed away on Sunday, March 3, 2024, at Fairmount Homes, after a battle with a brain tumor.
He was born in Ephrata on September 19, 1938, to the late Paul H. and Norma (Landis) Weaver and was the husband of Rodella (Kurtz) Weaver, with whom he shared 59 years of marriage.
Luke worked as a truck driver for United Road for the last 17 years. He enjoyed riding his Harley Davidson motorcycle, gardening, watching and feeding birds, reading, gospel music, and maintaining his property. He loved the Lord, his family, and grandchildren.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by two sons, Darrell, husband of Elly (Pasaribu) Weaver, Devin, husband of Ginger (Faris) Weaver; seven grandchildren, Abigail, Angela, Audrey, Zachary, Nathanael, Rachel, Sarah; five sisters, Miriam, wife of John Buckwalter, Lois, wife of Elvin Martin, Jane Herr, Eunice, wife of Don Warfel and Esther, wife of Roland Shorter.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by brother-in-law, David Herr.
A private graveside service will be held at the convenience of the family.
Memorial contributions in Luke's memory may be made to Fairmount Homes Benevolent Fund, 333 Wheat Ridge Drive, Ephrata, PA 17522.
Arrangements by Stradling Funeral Homes, Inc., Akron/Ephrata.
Weaver. Viola Martin
August 14, 1930 - January 11, 2024
Viola (Martin) Weaver, 93 years old of Harrisonburg, VA died on January 11, 2024. She was born on August 14, 1930 in Adamstown, PA., daughter of the late Aaron and Alice (Weber) Martin. She was preceded in death by her husband of 64 years, William M. Weaver.
Before she married, she worked at the Reading Farmer's Market for about 10 years and helped a widow with housework and childcare. Both Viola and her husband were active in the Reading Mission work before they were married.
Viola supported her husband in ministry through the years and contributed in creative ways. She was busy caring for 5 children while living in Reading, PA. She demonstrated an open home and an open heart with her hospitality and good cooking and baking skills. She volunteered for many years as a cook for Camp Hebron in Halifax, PA. She was manager of Meals on Wheels, preparing and delivering meals in the Halifax area. She worked at Philhaven Hospital while living in Lebanon, PA. They retired at Virginia Mennonite Retirement Community in Harrisonburg, VA.
She was an artist, and took art classes in her late 50's. She expressed her creativity through various techniques using acrylic on canvas. Her style was realism. All of her children and grandchildren have paintings from her in their homes.
Viola and her husband loved plants. She was not only kind to people, but all living things, even wild baby raccoons. She could identify birds by sight and their song. She led bird walks early in the morning. She enjoyed a good book and a number of magazines. She took an interest in nutrition and health and knew what vitamins came from the foods she ate. She kept up to date on the global news and was interested in local happenings until her dementia worsened.
Her last days were spent at VMRC. The family is grateful for the excellent care Mother had from the staff who were also very supportive to the family. Like her husband, she gave her body to Med-Cure for scientific study.
Surviving are five children, Priscilla married to Paul Jutzi of Mohnton, PA, Aldine married to James Musser of Harrisonburg, VA, Karen Weaver of Harrisonburg, VA, Lucinda married to Ralph Swartzentruber of Keezletown, VA, Curtis Weaver married to Karin Gingrich of Milwaukie, Oregon. 10 grandchildren, Loren Jutzi married to Jen Pilla, Dustin Jutzi, Crystal Musser married to David Rohrer, Sheri Musser married to Dung Nguyen, Melody Musser married to Alexis Nsabimana, Kendal Swartzentruber married to Kelsey Wyse, Heidi Swartzentruber, Andre Swartzentruber married to Jamie Dofflemyer, Jonathan Weaver, Chloe Weaver, 12 great-grandchildren, Elijah and Noah Jutzi, Nora and Leah Roher, Liem and Lily Nguyen, Jade and Noella Mae Nsabimana, Kaidence, Karcyn, and Kyan Swartzentruber, Tatum and Miles Swartzentruber.
April 4 at 2:00 PM there will be a memorial service in Detwiler at VMRC. Another Memorial service is being planned for April 6, 2024 at Gehmans Mennonite Church, 127 Witmer Rd., Reinholds, PA. 17569.
Weldy, Wayne W.
September 29, 1932 - March 23, 2024
Wayne W. Weldy, 91, Wakarusa, died 1:50 a.m. Saturday, March 23, 2024, at The Waters of Wakarusa. He was born September 29, 1932, in Wakarusa, to Cornelius S. & Golda B. (Wenger) Weldy. On February 20, 1955, he married Ruby J. (Cox) Weldy and she died April 13, 1985. Then on June 25, 1988, he married Diana (Burkey) Weldy.
Surviving are his wife, Diana, Wakarusa, children, Barbara (Steve) Christophel, Elkhart, Jerry (Bonnie) Weldy, Wakarusa, Mark (Denise) Weldy, Etna Green, Tracy Weldy, Bremen, 9 grandchildren, Phoebe (Greg) Hughes, Curtis Christophel, Casey (Traci) Weldy, Kory Weldy, Amanda (Scott) Jacobson, Dennis (Kristyn) Weldy, Joshua (Kristy) Weldy, Crystal (Clint) Dennie, Steph (Jordan) Creamer, 15 great-grandchildren, and 4 great-great grandchildren.
Preceding him in death are his parents, 1st wife, Ruby, granddaughter-in-law Lisa Weldy, daughter-in-law, Julie Weldy, and siblings, Alma Weldy, Vernelle Weldy, Vivian Brown, Pauline Stahly & Harold Weldy.
Wayne was a dairy farmer and an active member of Holdeman Mennonite Church where he was past elder and Sunday School Teacher. He was a past officer of the Nappanee Gideons, Elkhart County Holstein Association, Indiana Holstein Association, National Holstein Association, Elkhart County AG Society, and North Central Co-op. Wayne was also Sexton at Olive (East) Cemetery. He loved to garden, camp and build fires! He will be remembered for his smile, willingness to help others and words of encouragement.
Visitation will be 2-4 and 6-8 pm Wednesday, March 27, 2024 at Rieth Rohrer Ehret Lienhart Funeral Home, 117 W. Waterford St. Wakarusa, IN 46573 and 1 hour prior to a 10 am funeral service Thursday, March 28, 2024 at Holdeman Mennonite Church, 65723 CR 1, Wakarusa. Pastor BJ Leichty and Pastor Vernard Guengerich will officiate. Burial will follow at Olive (East) Cemetery. Memorial donations may be directed to Nappanee Gideons, PO Box 431 Nappanee, IN 46550 OR Holdeman Mennonite Church.
Wenger, Daniel L.
September 13, 1955 - March 25, 2024
Daniel L. Wenger, 68, longtime resident of Akron, PA, passed away on Monday, March 25, 2024, at Luther Acres. Born in Lancaster, PA, son of the late Eli C. and Ruth E. (Henry) Wenger, grandson of the late Clayton S. and Mary S. (Graybill) Henry of Henry's Homemade Cakes and Pies of Strasburg Pike, Lancaster, grandson of the late Eli D. and Anna Mary (Shirk) Wenger.
Dan was a 1973 graduate of Conestoga Valley High School and Lancaster County Vocational Technical School, Brownstown. He had worked as an auto parts manager. He was a member of Weaverland Anabaptist Faith Community, East Earl. He loved God, family, bulldogs, hunting and family genealogy.
Dan is a descendent of Christian Wenger, who came to Pennsylvania on the ship "Molly" in 1727 from Switzerland.
He is survived by two aunts, Betty Wenger Greider of Lancaster, Susan Wenger Smucker of Oregon; maternal cousins, Carol Jean Henry, wife of David J. Hall of Arizona, Michael B., husband of Linda M. Henry of Florida, Barry Becker and many paternal cousins.
Three paternal cousins assisted Dan as he encountered healthcare challenges in recent years. They are Michael Eby of Terre Hill, Miriam Frey of Mountville, PA and Mary Henning of Lansdowne, PA.
In recent months, paternal cousins, Thomas Martin, Quarryville, PA and Nelson Martin, Lititz, PA, a cousin of Dan's father, were an added presence.
Pastor Leon Hurst, retired pastor Weaverland Anabaptist Faith Community, East Earl, was a constant support to Dan during these years.
The family would like to thank everyone, distant family members throughout the country, longtime friends, new neighbors, at Old Hickory Apartments in Lancaster, PA, Kidney and Hypertension Staff in Lancaster, PA, Davita Dialysis Staff at Bridgeport Lancaster and Lititz, PA, Staff at Luther Acres Healthcare in Lititz, PA and Hospice and Community Care who supported Dan throughout the years, the past 3 months and weeks.
A viewing will be held on Wednesday, April 3, 2024, from 10 to 11 AM, at Stradling Funeral Home, 201 Church Avenue, Ephrata, followed by his funeral service at 11 AM. Interment will take place in Mellinger Mennonite Cemetery, Lancaster.
Memorial contributions in Daniel's memory may be made to Weaverland Anabaptist Faith Community, 210 Weaverland Valley Road, East Earl, PA 17519.
Arrangements by Stradling Funeral Homes, Inc., Akron/Ephrata.
Wenger, Esther Bontrager
August 14, 1947 - March 17, 2024
Esther Wenger, 76, of Shipshewana, died at 1:40 pm on Sunday, March 17 [2024] at her residence, following a brief battle with cancer. She was born on August 14, 1947, in Goshen, to Edwin and Anna (Yoder) Bontrager. On March 23, 1968, in Middlebury, she married David R. Wenger, he survives. Survivors in addition to her husband are four daughters, Angie (Chris) Nord of Albany, OR, Becky (Roger) Weaver of Lititz, PA, Susan (Ryan) Orr of Woodstock, GA, Sarah (Jeff) Short of Decatur, GA; eight grandchildren; three sisters, Polly Bontrager of LaGrange, Elizabeth (Al) Schneider of Locust Grove, VA, Kathy Sue Yoder of LaGrange; three brothers, Thomas (Julie) Bontrager of Carmel, Merv (Kathy) Bontrager of Middlebury, Mark (Phyllis) Bontrager of Shipshewana.
She was preceded in death by her parents.
Esther was a homemaker and had worked at the Essenhaus in accounting for 17 years. She loved traveling to spend time with her grandchildren. She enjoyed sewing, crafting, scrapbooking, and flower gardening. Camping and spending time with her Sunday school class was also important to Esther. She was a member of Shore Church and Bible Study Fellowship, and previously served on the Board of Rainbow Years Learning Ministry.
Visitation will be from 2:00 - 7:00 pm on Friday, March 22 at Shore Church, 7235 W. 100 N., Shipshewana. There will also be one hour of visitation prior to the 10:00 am funeral service on Saturday, March 23 also at Shore Church. Services will be conducted by Pastor Nic Raber and Pastor Lance Miller. Burial will be in Shore Cemetery, Shipshewana. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be given to Rainbow Years Learning Ministry.
Wingard, Joseph J., Jr.
August 11, 1942 - April 1, 2024
Joseph J. Wingard Jr., 81, of Shipshewana, (district: 52-1), died at 1:10 am on Monday, April 1, [2024] at his residence, following a battle with cancer. He was born on August 11, 1942, in Shipshewana, to Joseph J. and Nora (Miller) Wingard. On October 22, 1963, in Shipshewana, he married Betty M. Bontrager, she survives.
Survivors in addition to his wife are four sons, Levi (Pollyanna) Wingard of Topeka, Paul (Marlene) Wingard of Shipshewana, Owen (LeEtta) Wingard of Topeka, Milan (Lora) Wingard of Shipshewana; two daughters, Martha (Larry) Yoder of Middlebury, Irene (Vernon) Lambright of Topeka; 43 grandchildren, 53 great-grandchildren; four brothers, Raymond (Dora) Wingard, Freman (Leora) Wingard, Ferman (Barbara) Wingard all of Shipshewana, John (Sara) Wingard of Topeka; two sisters, Mary (Orley S.) Miller of Shipshewana, Ruby (Ervin) Mast of Middlebury; five sisters-in-law, Edna Wingard, Esther Wingard, Emma Schrock, Mary Katherine Lambright, Ruth Ann Wingard all of Shipshewana.
He was preceded in death by parents; daughter, Fannie Wingard; son, Manas Wingard; five brothers, Perry, Clarence, Elmer, Mahlon, and Jay D. Wingard; four sisters, Ida Schrock, Elizabeth Schlabach, Mary Mast, and Esther Lambright.
Joseph was a farmer and a member of the Old Order Amish Church.
Visitation will be after 3:00 pm on Monday, April 1 and all-day Tuesday, April 2 at the Paul Wingard residence, 9750 W. 250 N., Shipshewana. Funeral services will be at 9:30 am on Wednesday, April 3 also at the Paul Wingard residence. Services will be conducted by Bishop Freeman O. Miller and the home ministers. Burial will be in Naylor Cemetery, Shipshewana.
Wise, Ellis Myron
September 14, 1999 - March 21, 2024
WATERLOO– Ellis Myron Wise, 24, of Waterloo, NY, passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, March 21, 2024.
Calling Hours will be Sunday, (March 24), from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Finger Lakes Fellowship Center, 3403 NY 414, Seneca Falls. A Funeral Service and burial will be on Monday, (March 25) at 9:30 a.m. at Fayette Mennonite Church, 2233 Yellow Tavern Rd., Waterloo. Please, no flowers.
When Ellis was a small child, he was diagnosed with pulmonary hypertension, a disorder that caused him to face many challenges in life. He was a hard worker who enjoyed helping his family tend to their dairy farm and he also worked at Sauders Store in Seneca Falls.
Ellis is survived by his parents, Nelson and Lorraine Wise of Waterloo; brothers, Andrew (Sarah Jane), Wesley (Rose), Lavern, and Gary Wise of Waterloo; sister, Regina (Wesley) Horst of Phelps; paternal grandparents, Edwin and Ida Wise of Lititz, PA; maternal grandparents, John and Elma Sensenig of Romulus; 13 nieces and nephews and many aunts, uncles, and cousins.
Wise, Sally A. Brugger
July 19, 1961 - March 17, 2024
Sally A. Wise, 62, of Lititz, passed away on Sunday, March 17, 2024, at her home.
She was born to the late Nevin K. and C. Ann (Oberholtzer) Brugger of Akron, PA, and was the wife of David Wise.
Sally graduated from Ephrata High School in 1979 and received her BA from Ursinus College. Sally traveled to Germany many times: a time living with the Lehmann family (who became a life-long connection), a college junior year abroad (University of Freiburg), 14 student exchanges and personal travel. Sally taught German at several areas schools before having children. She resumed teaching at Ephrata High School where she taught for more than 20 years.
Sally was tireless in service to her callings. She continued the excellence of the German language program at Ephrata HS through instruction (34 of 40 student earned medals in 2024 national testing), student exchanges with Eberbach (sister city in Germany), German NHS and more. Her guiding vision: international friendships build bridges of peace and understanding. Sally was a nurturer and advocate, particularly for young women and marginalized (immigrants, LGBTQ, parentless and other disadvantaged students). Son Peter observed that she was a "mother to all."
Sally poured love and wisdom into her own children from stay-at-home mom years through adulthood. Peter and Annie were her crown jewels. Ever intentional, in her last year, she spoke and wrote her love, advice and reflections for family members. Sally was a matriarch and glue that held her wider families together, caring for her mother for 20+ years, and hosting countless extended family dinners. Nieces, nephews and their spouses felt Sally's embrace and support. Sally was an excellent cook and assembled a two-volume cookbook of her best meals as a continuing gift for her family. Appreciation of art and art history extends from Sally's mom Ann through Sally to daughter Annie, including many visits to galleries in the US and Europe. Sally enjoyed nature - birds, wildflowers, fishing - especially at Quimby Country in Vermont. Sally enjoyed a challenging hike and a great meal after, something she and Dave shared since 1978. In later years, out of love for her children, Sally pushed herself to hike in the Alps/Dolomites and backpack in Colorado's wilderness areas - joyful memories for her family.
Sally participated in Akron Mennonite Church and Blossom Hill Mennonite Church and enjoyed friendships and small groups of each. A multi-decade book group of inquisitive women was a joy.
Sally's self-chosen epitaph: loving wife, mother, sister, life-long learner, teacher, servant.
In addition to her husband, Sally is survived by a son, Peter Wise of Boulder, CO; a daughter, Annie Wise of Washington, DC; a brother, Steve, husband of Rebecca Brugger of Stevens; a sister, Julie, wife of Paul Finke of Davidson, NC and a sister-in-law, Trina Brugger of Denver.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a brother, Jeffrey Brugger.
A celebration of life service will be held on Saturday, April 27, 2024, at Akron Mennonite Church, 1311 Diamond Street, Akron. Receiving line 2:00-3:00, service 3:30 PM.
Memorial contributions in Sally's memory may be made to Good Samaritan Services at https://app.giveffect.com/campaigns/28931-sally-and-david-wise#cover
Arrangements by Stradling Funeral Homes, Inc., Akron/Ephrata.
Witmer, Eugene Rohrer
September 26, 1927 - February 3, 2024
Eugene Rohrer Witmer, 96, died on February 3, 2024, in Lititz PA. He was born on September 26, 1927, in Soudersburg, eldest child of the late Caleb W. and Elizabeth Heller (Rohrer) Witmer. He was predeceased by his wife of over 70 years, Anne E. (Stoltzfus) Witmer, in November 2019, and a son, Jon Kent Witmer, in October 1978.
Surviving are 2 sons, Daryl E. Witmer (Mary) of Monson, ME, and Randall D. Witmer (Glenda) of Lititz, and a daughter, Gina A. Plain (John) of Quarryville; 10 grandchildren and 23 great-grandchildren. Also surviving are brothers, C. Donald Witmer (Irene), Melvin Witmer (Barbara), and sister, E. Marlene Groff.
Eugene grew up in Soudersburg. He married Anne in 1949. For seventeen years they lived near Atglen PA. They moved to Smoketown in 1975 and then to Brethren Village Retirement Community in Lititz in 2013.
He worked with his wife Anne for many years in the hospitality industry. Eugene was an extraordinary organizer, facilitator, advisor, and encourager of many and these gifts were utilized in various business endeavors and ministries for whom he worked or volunteered. In later years his energies were given to providing care for his wife and in giving attention and love to his children and grandchildren.
Eugene was a lifelong member of Grace Point Church (formerly known as Paradise Mennonite Church), where he served as a Sunday school teacher and in other positions of leadership.
When he was about 13, during evangelistic services at the church in Paradise, he made the most important decision of his life, asking Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of his sins, and committing himself to be His follower. He later said that he never doubted for one minute that his conversion was real.
His commitment to Christ governed how he viewed life. Every decision was made on the basis of his commitment to God's Word in the Bible, prayer, and a desire to glorify God.
A memorial service will be held at Grace Point Church, 10 S Singer Ave., Paradise on Saturday, February 10, at 11:00 AM. The family will receive friends from 10:00-11:00AM. Private interment will be in the Paradise Mennonite Cemetery.
Witmer, J. Stanley
November 26, 1924 - February 25, 2024
J. Stanley Witmer, 99, of Lancaster, PA passed away on February 25, 2024 at Brethren Village Retirement Community where he resided for 9 years. He was married to the late Ethel M. Witmer for 69 years. Born in Lancaster, PA on November 26, 1924, he was the son of the late Enos and Miriam Witmer. He enjoyed a career of truck driving for many years and was co-owner of Witmers' Greenhouses, Inc. of Lancaster, PA.
Stanley attended Eastern Mennonite High School. He was an active member of Erisman Mennonite Church, where he shared his gifts of music, youth leader, and taught Sunday School. He sang in many choruses including the Hiram Hershey Chorus, Manheim Men's Chorus, and the Mencappella Men's Quartet. His other hobbies included playing golf and hunting with his sons, grandson, and great grandson. Stanley enjoyed traveling, meeting new people and was known for his great sense of humor.
Surviving are his two children, Jay E., husband of Elsie Witmer of Lancaster, and Linda E. Witmer of Lancaster; a daughter-in-law, Jeanne Witmer Brubaker, wife of the late Dale E. Witmer, now wife of John Brubaker of Mount Joy and his brother, Ray Witmer, husband of Meredith. He has seven grandchildren, Eric Witmer (Shelby), Douglas Witmer (Rebecca), Jonathan Witmer (Rachel), Donovan Witmer (Julie), Denison Witmer (Jenny), Melissa Witmer, David Witmer (Emily), and 14 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his wife, a son, Dale E. Witmer, and by brothers, Earl Witmer and Clyde Witmer.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend the Celebration of Life service at Brethren Village Retirement Community Chapel at 3001 Lititz Pike, Lititz, PA on Sunday, March 10th, 2024 at 3:00 p.m. Friends may greet the family from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. prior to the service. Interment will be private and held at the convenience of the family. If desired, contributions may be made to Fundameno (Bezaleel Education Center in Guatemala), PO Box 638, Greencastle, PA 17225, or to Hospice and Community Care, 685 Good Drive, PO Box 4125, Lancaster, PA 17604-4125. DeBord Snyder Funeral Home and Crematory:
Witmer, N. Harvey
November 19, 1941 — January 9, 2024
Norman Harvey Witmer was born on November 19, 1941, in the Chambersburg, Pennsylvania area. He was the second child, oldest son, of the late Norman and Anna Witmer. At the age of three months his family moved to the Sheldon, Wisconsin area, where he grew up helping his parents carve a farmstead out of the Wisconsin woods.
At a young age Harvey gave his heart to the Lord and joined the church at Sheldon, Wisconsin. He met Marilyn Baer when she came from Pennsylvania with her cousin Glenn Baer to attend a Bible School at Sheldon. They were married on June 23, 1962, at McBride, British Columbia.
Harvey and Marilyn lived in the McBride area for four and a half years, and during that time Kenneth and Sharon were born. In September of 1966, the family moved to Sheldon, WI, where they lived till May of 1967, at which time they moved to Unity, WI. In the fall of 1967, Harvey was ordained minister.
Harvey was a church leader and dairy farmer in the Unity area for twenty-five years. Six more children were added to the family in those years - Arlene, Duane, Jerilyn, Beverly, Gloria and Harlan. During this time, they spent two years serving on the mission field in the Dominican Republic. In July of 1981, Harvey was ordained bishop.
The Unity church started an outreach in southern Wisconsin in 1992 and the family relocated to that area. It was here that Harvey spent the last thirty-two years of his life.
Harvey will be remembered for how he enjoyed people and for his interest in the knowledge of God’s world around him. Most importantly we remember his burden for the church and his concern for those who were under his care as a leader.
He was taken home to heaven on January 9, 2024, at the age of eighty-two years, one month, twenty-one days. We rejoice in the peacefulness of his passing and his release from his earthly body.
He will be lovingly remembered by Marilyn, his wife of nearly sixty-two years, and his children, son Kenneth (Anna) of Craven Arms, England, daughter Sharon (Duane) Hoover of Neshkoro, Wisconsin, daughter Arlene (Laurence) Fox of Browerville, Minnesota, son Duane (Kendra) of Medford, Wisconsin, daughter Jerilyn (Cornelius) Bauman of Garland, Utah, daughter Beverly (Titus) Byler of Goodhue, Minnesota, daughter Gloria (Keith) Weaver of Tremonton, Utah, son Harlan (Eunice) of Arlington, Vermont, his fifty-one grandchildren, forty-four great-grandchildren.
He is survived by his sisters Carolyn (Witmer) Baer of Sheldon, Wisconsin and Lorene Witmer of Augusta, Wisconsin. His brothers, Claire (Clara) Witmer of Sheldon, Wisconsin, Dennis (Naomi) Witmer of Aztec, New Mexico, Dallas (Rhoda) Witmer of Villa del Rosario, Colombia, Aaron (Rhoda) Witmer of Watertown, South Dakota, Ervin (Ruth) Witmer of Cadott, Wisconsin, Ernest (Yvonne) Witmer of Ronks, Pennsylvania.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Norman and Anna Witmer, his sister Pauline, grandsons Wendall Fox and Jackson Weaver and great-grandson Lincoln Schrock, his brothers-in-law Glenn Baer and Dennis Hindal, sisters-in-law Florence (Leslie) Witmer and Rachel (Schrader) Witmer.
Visitation will be held on Sunday, January 14, 2024 from 4:00PM until 6:00 p.m. at the Oak Ridge Mennonite Church, W5142 S. Oakhaven Circle, Wautoma, WI. 54982. Visitation will continue on Monday, January 15, 2024 from 1:00PM to 3:00PM and 6:00PM to 8:00 PM at Waushara Community Church, N2126 22nd Ave, Wautoma, WI 54982. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, January 16, 2024 at W5590 Chicago Ave., Wautoma, WI 54982. Luncheon will follow at Crossroads Family Church, 640 S. Water St., Wautoma, WI 54982