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 B2
Brown, Ronald W.
January 26, 1952 - May 27, 2024
Ronald W. Brown, 72, of Terre Hill, passed away on Monday, May 27, 2024. He was married 51 years to Martha W. Horst Brown. Born in Lancaster, he was the son of the late George and Janet Haupt Brown.
Ronald retired from Henry Schein Co. and many years of employment. He was a member of the Martindale Mennonite Church and enjoyed fishing, cooking, woodworking, and playing games. He was a jovial person who enjoyed joking around.
Surviving besides his wife are three sons, John husband of Julie Brown of Denver, Ronald husband of Stacy Brown of Ephrata, and Jeffrey husband of Amy Brown of Mohnton; two granddaughters, Ivie and Iris Brown. He was preceded in death by a daughter, Sheryl Brown and two sisters.
A Memorial Service will be held on Friday, May 31, at 10:00 A.M. at Martindale Mennonite Church, 171 Hurst Road, Ephrata, PA. The family will greet friends following the service. Interment will be private and held at the convenience of the family.
To send an online condolence to the family, visit www.GroffEckenroth.com Arrangements by the Eckenroth Home for Funerals, Terre Hill, PA
Brubacher, Viola Martin
June 26, 1933 - March 21, 2024
Peacefully she went to be with her Jesus, surrounded by family, on Thursday, March 21, 2024 at Knollcrest Lodge, Milverton in her 91st year. We rejoice that she has been released from the cruel grip of dementia.
Beloved wife of the late Leonard Brubacher (2000). Dear mother of Lorraine and Dennis Frey, Shirley and David Brubacher, Phyllis and Loye Halteman, Durrell and Elaine Brubacher, and Lynette and Wally Brubacher. Also lovingly remembered by her 14 grandchildren and 23 great-grandchildren. Sister of Seleda (the late Oscar) Martin, and Agnes and Henry Weber. Viola will be missed by her nieces, nephews and their families.
Predeceased by her parents Amsey and Sarah Martin, stillborn daughter Mary Lynn (1970), granddaughter Keirsten Halteman, brother Lloyd and Dorothy (second wife Minerva) Martin, and in-laws Eldon and Irla Brubacher, Edna Brubacher, Ian and Luida Gingrich.
Visitation will be held on Tuesday, March 26, 2024 from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at the Dreisinger Funeral Home, 62 Arthur St. S. Elmira. Funeral Service will take place at Countryside Mennonite Fellowship, 3745 Herrgott Rd, Hawkesville on Wednesday, March 27, 2024 at 2 p.m. followed by interment at Hillside Cemetery.
Donations to Northern Youth Programs (Dryden, Ontario) or Elmira District Community Living would be appreciated and may be made through the funeral home. A special thank you to the staff at Knollcrest for the compassionate care she received.
Brubaker, Benjamin B.
March 31, 1936 - March 27, 2024
Benjamin B. Brubaker, 87, of Manheim died peacefully, on Wednesday, March 27, 2024, at Pleasant View Communities, Manheim. Born in Mount Joy on March 31, 1936, he was the son of the late Jonas E. and Naomi S. Brubaker. He was preceded in death by his wife of 55 years, Bertha W. Brubaker.
In his early 20s, Ben spent 2 years in volunteer service with the PAX program under MCC, doing construction in Germany, Algeria, Morocco, and France. Those 2 years encouraged a life of generosity of his time and finances and a desire to serve Jesus by helping others. Ben and Bertha spent many hours helping others, family, and friends, and enjoyed this aspect of their marriage. In 1968, they purchased their 1495 Lebanon Rd. property and worked together to restore the house, barn, make a pond with a little cottage and many other upgrades. They lived there for over 50 years.
Ben enjoyed hard work and his various jobs throughout his life - farming with his family, construction, custom hay baling, Mount Joy millworks, and finally a general contractor for his business, "Brubaker Builders". In his retirement, Ben and Bertha created "Echoes From The Past" through which they provided salvage and antique building materials to those restoring old buildings to their former glory. This also satisfied their love of and passion for preserving the past. One of Ben's favorite community service projects was teaching woodworking to the many Manheim 4H students who came to his shop to learn the art. Ben faithfully donated to the blood bank, donating well over 9 gallons of blood over the years. Ben had many hobbies and loved the outdoors, hunting deer and big game, fishing, flower and vegetable gardening, music and lending his bass voice to many singing groups.
Ben is survived by his sister, Ruth (William) Yovanovich and many nieces and nephews.
Ben was preceded in death by 4 siblings, Elizabeth Brubaker, Jonas Brubaker, Jr., Martin (Arlene) Brubaker, and Naomi (Robert) Rowe.
A Memorial Service for Ben will take place at the Buch Funeral Home, 21 Market Square, Manheim on Saturday, April 20, 2024 at 10:30 AM. Friends may visit with the family from 10:00 AM until the time of service.
In lieu of flowers, those desiring may send contributions in Ben's memory to Gideon's International, P.O. Box 97251, Washington, DC 20090.
Brubaker, Edna S. Martin
August 14, 1928 - June 18, 2024
Edna S. Brubaker, 95, Goshen, died 11:46 a.m. Tuesday, June 18, 2024, at The Waters of Wakarusa. She was born August 14, 1928, in Wakarusa, to Joseph E. & Mary S. (Shaum) Martin. On September 18, 1948, she married Clayton J. Brubaker and he died September 18, 1990.
Surviving are daughters, Naomi Hoover, Goshen, Ann Hoover, Green Valley, Arizona, Doris (David) Mast, Oakland, California, Gloria Brubaker, Houston, Texas, son, Abram (Mary) Brubaker, Jones, Michigan, 6 grandchildren, Rachel (Victor De Leon) Hoover, Indianapolis, Laura (Josh) Mathew, Middlebury, Rebecca Hoover, Boca Raton, Florida, Jessica (Dan) Brubaker-Horst, South Bend, Amelia Brubaker, South Bend, David Mast, Pleasanton, California, 6 great-grandchildren and a brother, Benjamin Martin, New Market, Virginia.
Preceding her in death are her parents, husband, Clayton, sons-in-law, Charles Hoover & Glenn Hoover, sisters, Barbara Brubacher, Susannah Ramer, Emma Ramer, Ida Ramer, Bertha Martin, Grace Shirk, Ruth Brubaker, Suetta Bechtel, Rhoda Martin & Miriam Hoover and brothers, Daniel Martin, Jason Martin, Rufus Martin, Naaman Martin & Allen Martin.
Edna was owner & operator of Brubaker Strawberry Farm, quilted for people and worked at Miller’s Merry Manor as a housekeeper. She attended Holdeman Mennonite Church. Edna was active with the Holdeman’s Women Sewing Group and quilted for the MCC Relief Sale. She enjoyed cooking for family gatherings and gardening.
Visitation will be 4-7 p.m. Monday, June 24, 2024, at Rieth Rohrer Ehret Lienhart Funeral Home, 117 W. Waterford St., Wakarusa. Burial will be 9 a.m. Tuesday, June 25, 2024, at Yellow Creek Frame Cemetery, Goshen. A memorial service will follow at 11 a.m. at College Mennonite Church, 1900 S. Main St., Goshen. Pastor BJ Leichty and Pastor Pamela Yoder will officiate. Memorial donations may be directed to Alzheimer’s & Dementia Services of Northern Indiana, 111 Sunnybrook Court, South Bend, Indiana 46637.
Brubaker, Elva W. Martin
March 12, 1929 - November 12, 2024
Elva W. (Martin) Brubaker, 95, of E. Cocalico Twp, died at home on Tuesday, November 12, 2024. She had been under the care of Hospice and Community Care. She was the wife of the late Elvin G. Brubaker who died September 22, 1999. Born in Caernarvon Twp, she was the daughter of the late Elam K. and Lydia W. (Weaver) Martin.
A retired homemaker, she was a member of the Muddy Creek Mennonite Church, Groffdale Conference.
Surviving are five sons, Earl Brubaker of New Holland, Paul husband of Eva Ringler Brubaker of East Earl, James Brubaker of East Waterford, Jesse husband of Mary Martin Brubaker of Withee, WI, and Elmer Brubaker at home; a daughter Esther Brubaker at home; fifteen grandchildren, sixty-two great-grandchildren, seven great-great-grandchildren; and a sister, Bertha W. Martin Leid Zimmerman wife of Samuel Zimmerman of Fleetwood. She was preceded in death by a son, David M. Brubaker, six brothers, Aaron W., Harvey W., Alvin W., Ammon W., Floyd W., and Marvin W. Martin, and by sisters, Ellen W. Martin and Lydia W. Sensenig.
A Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, November 16, at 9:30 AM at Muddy Creek Mennonite Church, 531 S. Muddy Creek Road, Denver, PA with Bishop Leon Zimmerman officiating. Interment in the adjoining church cemetery. Viewings will be held on Friday from 2:00 to 4:00 PM and 6:00 to 8:00 PM at the home of Eugene Brubacker, 195 Chestnut Hill Road, Stevens, PA. Arrangements by the Eckenroth Home for Funerals, Terre Hill, PA.
Brubaker, Martin
July 4, 1928 - February 17, 2024
Martin [Brubaker] passed away on a beautiful snowy morning, February 17, 2024 under Masonic Hospice Care surrounded by his family. A lifelong resident of Lancaster County for 95 years. He was born on July 4, 1928, and achieved success with hard work, perseverance, and being adventurous.
Martin's parents were Jonas and Naomi Brubaker. He had 5 siblings, Elizabeth, Jonas Jr. Naomi (Bob) Rowe, Ruth (Bill) Yovanovich, Ben (Bertha). His sister Ruth and brother Ben are still living. He grew up and worked on the family farm. Martin attended school until the 8th grade and then stayed home to work on the farm. He kept in touch with his classmates from the class of 1947, through the class reunions. Martin was a member of Mount Joy Mennonite Church. His favorite passages are Psalm 139 and Isaiah 46:4.
In 1946, at age 18, he went on a life changing 10 week adventure as a sea going cowboy, sailing across the Atlantic Ocean to Bremen, Germany. They took bred heifers to replace livestock after the destruction during WWII. It is known today as the Heifer International.
In 1952 he took a 2nd sea going cowboy trip to Israel, from there they sailed to Denmark, to get cattle and then sailed back to Israel, before returning back to the states.
In 1953 Martin married Arlene (Martin). They bought a farm in 1958 and operated with dairy, chickens and sweet corn. They had 4 children, Rachel (Brian) George, Dwight (Kim), Doug (Karen), and Reba (Rudy) Wolgemuth. Also surviving are 9 grandchildren and great grandchildren.
In 1972, Martin started driving for Lancaster Limousine service (Unique). He enjoyed driving, meeting and conversing with new people. He took pleasure in driving and exploring new places. Martin drove for 26 years prior to retiring in 1998. He never had an accident driving all those miles.
In 1980 he made 2 trips to Puerto Rico to take bred heifers there with ships leaving Baltimore.
Martin made a trip to Russia with the Gideon's to hand out literature.
In 2002 they moved off the farm and resided at Mount Joy Country Homes. Martin enjoyed talking to people, riding his scooter, playing shuffleboard and corn hole. He volunteered at the Mount Joy Gift and Thrift Shop and pushed wheelchairs at Mennonite Home. Martin liked to keep busy. He enjoyed driving around his farm owned by his son (Doug) and his family. Martin got around on his golf cart and on Tuesdays went to Roots Market.
In 2020 they moved to Elizabethtown to receive family care. Martin's wife, Arlene passed away on December 4th, 2022. They celebrated 69 years of marriage.
His other interests were enjoying nature and viewing wildlife. Martin was an avid hunter and liked taking trips to the cabin with his family. He liked watching Penn State Football and watched channel 49 following the daily news. Martin was a champion checker player, enjoyed carom and Chinese checkers. He also enjoyed keeping records, treasures of articles and letters from memorable memories. Martin had an amazing memory even in his late years.
A sincere thank you to Masonic Village Hospice care team as you supported our family through dad's earthly life's journey. Your care, love and support were amazing. Thanks to the family and friends for your prayers, cards and texts. Thank you for your support through the years.
A graveside service will be private at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Heifer International (heifer.org).
Brunk, Elsie Mae Harner
December 19, 1938 - April 25, 2024
Elsie Mae Harner Brunk, 85, a resident of Rockingham, Va. went home to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on Thursday, April 25, 2024. She passed on peacefully at her home.
Elsie was born on Dec. 19, 1938, in Waynesboro, Va. and was a daughter of the late Roy H. and Margaret Weaver Harner. On Oct. 11, 1958, she married Harry A. Brunk Jr., with whom she shared the rest of her life, 65 years.
Elsie was a loving and devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. She was a homemaker and spent many hours gardening, canning, and freezing fruits and vegetables. Additionally, she enjoyed writing and wrote numerous articles for Christian publications, and authored two devotional books. Elsie was a member of Park View Mennonite Church and faithfully served as chair of the hospitality committee for many years, overseeing the fellowship and funeral meals. She and her husband, Harry, also worked together in serving banquet meals at Eastern Mennonite School dining hall. Known for her compassion, Elsie dedicated time to visiting those unable to leave their homes, sharing stories and assembling puzzles with them. She was gifted in listening to people’s needs, supporting them in prayer, and doing what she could to make things better.
Elsie’s husband, Harry, survives, as well as her children, Brian P. Brunk and wife, Susan, Marcia B. Lexa and husband, Jonathan, Harry A. Brunk III and wife, Crystal, Pamela B. Fahndrich and husband, Timothy; sister, Louise Swartz; step-siblings, Arden R. Harner, David A. Harner, Michael R. Harner, Gloria A. Beavers; 12 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren, with one on the way.
In addition to her parents, Elsie was preceded in death by a sister, Joann Harner Godshall and brothers-in-law, Abram Godshall and Dennis Swartz.
A memorial service celebrating Elsie’s life will be held on Saturday, June 8, 2024, at Park View Mennonite Church at 3:00 p.m. with Phil Kniss and Paula Stoltzfus officiating.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made payable to Elsie H. Brunk Memorial Fund and mailed to Park View Federal Credit Union, 1675 Virginia Ave., Harrisonburg, VA 22802. Contributions will be dispersed to various organizations that Elsie wished to support.
Brunk, Henry Martin, Jr.
September 2, 1929 - September 15, 2024
Henry Martin Brunk Jr., 95, went home to be with his Lord on Sunday, September 15, 2024, at his home in Harrisonburg, VA. He was born in Denbigh, VA on September 2, 1929, a son of the late Henry M. and Nora Kraus Brunk and spent his childhood living in Hyattsville, MD and youth in Harrisonburg. He graduated in 1946 from Eastern Mennonite High School. On April 12, 1952, he was united in marriage with Edna Marie Ebersole, who survives.
In addition to his wife of 72 years, he is survived by daughters Patricia Brunk VanderMissen (husband Steven) of MO, Joan Brunk Baughman (husband Tracy) of VA, Paula Brunk Kuhns (husband Bruce) of OR, son Jeffrey Brunk (wife Eileen) of VA, daughter in-law Patty Brunk McNamar (husband Jerry) of KS, grandsons Matthew Brunk McNamar (wife Debra and Fagan daugthers), Kenneth McNamar, Marcos Wright-Kuhns (wife Beth), Stefan Baughman, Bryce Baughman (wife Hilary), Anthony VanderMissen, great grandsons Gabe and Jamie Wright-Kuhns, a sister in-law Mary Louise Brunk, sister-in-law Esther Ebersole Lepley (husband Jim), brother-in-law Elmer (wife Jan) Ebersole, and numerous nieces and nephews.
Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by a son Merle Edward Brunk, sisters Esther and husband Norman Loux, Ellen Griffen, Ruth and husband Ray Horst, Alma and husband Leonard Baer, brothers Nelson and wife Ruth Brunk, Perry and wife Fern Brunk, Joe Brunk, and brother-in-law Lewis and wife Betty Ebersole.
Henry loved and served the Lord, while caring for his family and friends. He enjoyed sharing his beautiful baritone voice both as song leader and soloist and served many years as a church trustee. He and Edna enjoyed traveling with their children through many continental US. states and Canadian Provinces and later he and Edna internationally.
In 1952 he was one of nine persons who founded the Hyattsville Mennonite Church in MD and was an active member for 52 years. He served on the board of Jubilee Association of Maryland, an organization serving adults with disabilities and also enjoyed helping at the International Guesthouse, Washington, DC, a Mennonite Church outreach ministry to internationals. He was an Association Member of Laurelville Mennonite Church Center for 60 years and served on their board. He enjoyed taking his family to LMCC annually for Family Music Week, and he and Edna also spent a year (‘80-81) volunteering there. Upon moving to Harrisonburg 20 years ago, he became an active member of Lindale Mennonite Church.
Henry spent 30 years purchasing materials at Peoples Supply, Inc. Bladensburg, MD, a family-owned building supply company which his father started in 1932. He loved his work and the people he worked with, building strong and lasting relationships. Once he retired and moved to Harrisonburg he found great pleasure in attending Bowman’s Auctions, purchasing items to donate to Harrisonburg’s Gift and Thrift and other charitable thrift stores. He loved thinking of others as he bought items and was often heard saying, “I thought of you when I saw this!”
Henry has donated his body to medical science. A Memorial Service will be held at Lindale Mennonite Church on Sunday, November 3rd at 4:00 pm. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.
In Henry’s memory, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Mennonite Central Committee (21 S 12th Street, Akron, PA 17501) or to Laurelville Mennonite Church Center (941 Laurelville Lane, Mount Pleasant, PA 15666).
Online condolences may be made to the family by visiting www.mcmullenfh.com.
McMullen Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Brunk, Janet Ruth Yoder
March 31, 1954 - May 7, 2024
Delmar - Janet Ruth (Yoder) Brunk, age 70, of Delmar, MD passed away peacefully to be with her Lord on Tuesday, May 7, 2024. She was born March 31, 1954 in Salisbury, MD to the late David Daniel and Edith (Longacre) Yoder. She was preceded in death by her husband, Wendall Jay Brunk, with whom she shared 46 years. She was a member of the Salisbury Mennonite Church.
She is survived by her children Regina Gascho (Eugene) of Resaca, Georgia, Nadine Amstutz (Leroy) of Hope, Indiana, James Brunk (Sandra) of Salisbury, Maryland, Suzanne Reinford (Brian) of Chaffee, New York, Rachelle Diaz (Reds) of Salisbury, Maryland, Darya Kraemer (Durrell) of Hammond, Illinois, and Daniel Brunk (Lisa) of Delmar, Delaware; and 30 grandchildren; 1 great grandchild; 7 siblings; Anita Knepp (Willie) of Lake Butler, Florida; Marlin Yoder (Esther) of Partridge, Kansas; Karen Good of Amelia, Virginia; Betty Gascho (Ron) of Granville Summit, Pennsylvania; Martha Rhodes (Ken) of Fairchild, Wisconsin; Judy Kurtz (Edwin) of Ephrata, Pennsylvania; and Rachel Alexander of Princess Anne, Maryland; and many nieces and nephews.
A visitation will be held on Sunday, May 12, 2024, from 2 p.m.- 4 p.m. and from 6 p.m. - 8 p.m. at the Delmarva Evangelistic Church, 408 Gordy Road, Salisbury, Maryland, where a funeral service will be held on Monday, May 13, 2024 at 10:30 a.m. Interment will follow at the Salisbury Mennonite Church Cemetery.
Arrangements are in the care of Short Funeral Home in Delmar.
Brunk, Shirley K. Nafziger
May 14, 1949 - May 24, 2024
Shirley K. Nafziger Brunk, 75, of Harrisonburg, Va. went to be with the Lord the morning of May 24, 2024. Her husband of 39 years, Gerald Robert Brunk, was by her side.
Born Shirley Kay Nafziger to Vilas and Erma Nafziger on May 14, 1949, in Hopedale, Ill., she was the youngest of five children.
She was a graduate of Minier High School and Goshen College, Goshen, Ind. She was employed as a production-marketing assistant in the English Broadcasting Department of the Mennonite Board of Missions-Media Ministries in Harrisonburg, Va.
Shirley was a member of Harrisonburg Mennonite Church and served as an administrative assistant. She loved being part of the many women’s Bible studies there. She was blessed with a large group of friends who supported each other through life and each other’s spiritual journeys. Shirley was an avid reader and loved completing jigsaw puzzles of varying sizes. Traveling with her husband was always a highlight, especially to visit her siblings. She loved the mountains, viewing and hiking, with Peaks of Otter being a preferred vacation spot. Crystal figurines and anything representing pandas were collected and received as treasures. Pandas held a special place in Shirley’s heart.
Shirley was preceded in death by her parents and her sisters, Marlene and Barb of Indiana and Illinois respectively.
She is survived by the love of her life, her husband, Gerald; four stepsons, Daryl (Robyn) of Waynesboro, Steve (Beth) of Rockingham, Kevin (Ruben) of San Antonio, Texas and Ben (Cynthia) of New Market; and six step-grandchildren, who filled her heart with great joy, Monica (Lanie) of Reading, Pa., Braden of Orlando, Fla., Michelle of Rockingham, Ryan of New Market and Amber and Sophia of Waynesboro. She is also survived by her brothers, John (Connie) of Gahanna, Ohio and Keith of Bloomington, Ill. She was the proud aunt of numerous nieces and nephews. Shirley’s dear friend, Retha Baer, has been a blessing with caring support for her and the family the last few years.
Arrangements were made by McMullen Funeral Home. There will be a private burial with the family. A memorial service will be held Wednesday, June 5, 2024, at 2 p.m. at Harrisonburg Mennonite Church. A time of visitation will follow the service.
In lieu of flowers, please send memorial contributions to Harrisonburg Mennonite Church, 1552 South High St., Harrisonburg, VA 22801.
Bucher, Kenneth Alderfer "Ken"
May 18, 1950 - May 11, 2024
Kenneth Alderfer "Ken" Bucher, age 73, of Manheim, PA went to be with his Lord and Savior on Saturday, May 11, 2024. For the past 8 years he courageously fought the battle of Lewy Body Disease and resided at the Mt. Hope Nazarene Retirement Community for the last two of those years. He was born in Dover, PA on May 18, 1950 to the late John and Mildred Bucher.
In his late teens he taught at various Summer Bible Schools, Sunday School, and led singing. He graduated from Lancaster Mennonite High School, class of 1968 and York Hospital School of Nursing in 1971. He was the first male student in the 75th class. He spent the summer of 1971 at Mountain Clinic in Harmen, WV where he enjoyed working with his uncle who was a doctor. Following this, he entered Voluntary Service with Eastern Mennonite Board in Philadelphia where he met the love of his life, Evelyn Brandt.
His heart for the elderly led him to work at Friends Hall, Philadelphia and then 27 years at Mt. Hope Nazarene Retirement Community (formerly Mt. Hope Dunkard Brethren Church Home) from 1980-2006. Ken and his wife served as the first managers of the Manheim Jubilee Ministries Thrift store where he worked until his retirement in 2015. He was also licensed as a pastor in 1972 and served at Oxford Circle Mennonite Church, Philadelphia from 1972 1980. He later pastored at Manheim Mennonite Church from 1981 until he retired in 2015.
His love for the Lord, his Church, The Bible and his Anabaptist heritage and faith inspired his family and those he ministered to. His favorite scripture verse was 3 John 1:4 "I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth," This included not only his children, but the children of God he pastored.
On March 31, 1973 he married Evelyn Brandt and together they had 6 children. He was a very present father, demonstrating to his children the importance of peacemaking and living simply. He was a servant leader in the home and ministry. He was gentle and encouraging, and valued family togetherness and brought that about through family singing, working outside, camping, hiking, canoeing, and biking. Though he worked very hard at his job, he found many reasons to take his family for outdoor activities. His biking enthusiasm found him biking solo as a late teenager on a 3-speed bike all the way to Harmen, WV from Dover, PA.
His loving family includes his wife, Evelyn Bucher, 5 sons: Kevin (Kristin Kauffman) Eurasia, Keith (Coryna Wray) of Elnora, IN, Karl (Lindsey Bauman) of Greer, South Carolina, Kenton (Emily Zeiset) of Manheim, and Kristofer (Rachel Stahl) of Manheim, a daughter, Kendra (Jeff Johnson) of Indianapolis, IN and 23 grandchildren. His siblings are J. Paul (Esther) of Manheim, Ruth (Jim Mellinger) of San Antonio, TX, and Nancy (Steve Rodfort) of Durham, NC and many cousins, nieces, and nephews.
Ken was predeceased by his parents, John and Mildred Bucher, his paternal grandparents, Bela and Mabel Bucher and step grandmother Alma Bucher and his maternal grandparents, Harvey and Susan Alderfer.
We want to thank Landis Homes Adult Day Care, Agape Care Agency, Caring Hospice and al the nurses and staff at Mt. Hope Nazarene Retirement Community for their kind, loving care for Ken.
Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Ken's Funeral Service at Erb Mennonite Church, 567 West Lexington Road, Lititz on Thursday, May 16, 2024 at 10:00 AM. There will be a viewing at Erb Mennonite Church on Wednesday evening from 6:00 PM 8:00 PM and again at the church on Thursday morning from 9:00 AM until the time of service. Interment in Erisman Mennonite Cemetery, Manheim.
Those desiring may send contributions in Ken's memory to Mt. Hope Nazarene Retirement Community Building Fund, 3026 Mt. Hope Home Road, Manheim, PA 17545 or Jubilee Prison Ministries, 235 South 12th Street, Lebanon, PA 17042.
Buckwalter, Lois Miriam Litwiller
October 2, 1921 - March 8, 2024
Lois Miriam Buckwalter, age 102, died on March 8, 2024 at Greencroft Healthcare. She was born in Chicago, Illinois, on October 2, 1921, to Ada (Ramseyer) and Nelson Litwiller.
In 1925 the Mennonite Board of Missions (now Mennonite Mission Network) sent them as missionaries to Argentina. Lois grew up together with three younger sisters and one younger brother in the towns of Pehuajó, Trenque Lauquen and Bragado. Family life revolved around Nelson and Ada’s active church work in these towns.
In 1941 Lois went to Goshen College, where she majored in Spanish, English and Teacher’s Education, graduating in 1944. She met Albert Shank Buckwalter at Goshen College in 1942 and they were married August 22, 1947, in Hesston, Kansas. In 1950 they departed for the Argentine Chaco, appointed by the Mennonite Board of Missions to work among the Toba (Qom) Indians. Only a few years after beginning this work, they made a soul-searching decision to desist from attempting to plant a Mennonite church among the Tobas, but instead to encourage the emergence of an independent Toba church. They assumed an accompanying role towards this new Iglesia Evangélica Unida, making it a point every weekend to visit one of its fifty-some congregations widely scattered throughout the Chaco and Formosa provinces, receiving many Toba visitors in their Sáenz Peña home, and especially taking upon themselves the effort of learning the Toba language.
In the course of over 40 years of missionary work, they oversaw the translation by indigenous associates of the New Testament and selections of the Old Testament not only into Toba, but also into the related languages of Pilagá and Mocoví. They also compiled Toba, Mocoví, and Pilagá dictionaries, as well as a Spanish-Guaycurú quadrilingual dictionary. In addition, Lois edited a bilingual Qom-Spanish quarterly church newsletter entitled Qara’aqtaxanaxanec (“Our Messenger”). On October 7, 1989, in recognition for their life and work, the Goshen College Alumni Board presented them with the newly established Culture for Service Award. Lois and Albert retired in 1993 to Greencroft Goshen, in Goshen, Indiana, where they were members of the College Mennonite Church. Albert passed away on May 12, 2004.
Lois was a cheerful, outgoing person, a curious and sensitive observer of the world around her, always eager to meet new people and gifted at finding common points of conversation. She took on the tasks at hand with enthusiasm, impatience and determination. Besides bringing up four children in the Chaco and collaborating unstintingly with Albert in their missionary work, Lois was an avid correspondent. She devoted tireless energy to writing letters to family and friends on a regular basis, a practice she began in college days and continued throughout her life, transitioning seamlessly into emails in the last 25 years of her life. When no longer able to read comfortably or type, she carefully dictated her answers. She was very interested in, and followed up closely on the activities and projects of her grandchildren, both by email and phone. She loved going on walks and was a brisk walker. Her faith made her an avid reader of Scripture, a critical reader of ecumenical theological literature, and a concerned observer of world events. She kept track of topics she thought were relevant to her children, and often mailed them journal articles or newspaper clippings.
Lois was preceded in death by her parents, her sisters Esther Schertz and Eunice Miller, and her brother John T. N. Litwiller.
Survivors include a sister, Beulah González of Goshen; two daughters, Rachel Lois (John) Miller of Lawrence, Kansas, and Naomi (Mimi) Rose Buckwalter of El Cajón, California; two sons, Timothy A. (Crissie Shank) Buckwalter of Goshen, and Stephen E. (Ulrike von Fritschen) Buckwalter of Neustadt an der Weinstrasse, Germany; five grandchildren, Julia Buckwalter, Shannon Scott, Victoria (Vic) Scott, Niklas Buckwalter, and Amelie Buckwalter; and cousins, nieces and nephews.
Cremation will take place at Yoder-Culp Funeral Home. A memorial service is being planned for a later date. Ashes will be scattered at the College Mennonite Church Memorial Garden in Goshen and buried in Eastlawn Cemetery, Newton, Kansas.
Buckwalter, Nancy L.
May 14, 1944 - June 9, 2024
Nancy L. Buckwalter, 80, passed away peacefully at Emerald Nursing and Rehabilitation on Sunday, June 9, 2024. She was born and grew up in Manheim, daughter of the late J. Harold and Helen Stauffer Buckwalter. Nancy was a member of the Manheim Mennonite Church. For many years, she enjoyed living at Faith Friendship Villa in Mountville.
She is survived by one brother: Allan H. Buckwalter, Womelsdorf and one sister: Janet Buckwalter (Richard) Lengacher, Huntsburg, OH. One niece and two nephews.
A Private Graveside Service and Burial was held at Mellinger Mennonite Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made in Nancy's memory to: Faith Friendship Ministries, PO Box 567, Mountville, PA 17554. Arrangements by the Workman Funeral Homes, Inc., Mountville/Columbia.
Burkhart, Annie Martin
August 8, 1954 - May 5, 2024
Passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 5, 2024 at her residence at the age of 70 years.
Beloved wife of Lorne Burkhart. Mother of Maynard and Dianne Burkhart of Holstein, Marilyn and James Martin of Alma, Dennis and Dorothy Burkhart of Holstein, Marvin and Marie Burkhart of Wallenstein, Grace and Leon Brubacher of Alma. Survived by 33 grandchildren. Sister to Orlan and Ella Martin of Drayton, Orvie and Eileen Martin of Wallenstein, Ernie and Sharon Martin of Alma, Eileen and Albert (2022) Frey of Palmerston, Melvin and Shirley Martin of Wallenstein, Wilma and Wayne Brubacher of Wallenstein. Sister-in-law of Amos (2021) and Elvina Burkhart of Wallenstein, Anna and Vernon Martin of Elmira, Leonard and Erma Burkhart, Paul and Esther Burkhart all of Wallenstein, James and Laura Burkhart of Hawkesville, Naomi and Allen Martin of Elmira.
Predeceased by her parents Laverne and Elvina Martin and sister Mary in infancy.
Visitation will take place on Monday, May 6, 2024 from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. and on Tuesday, May 7, 2024 from 2-5 p.m. at the home of Lorne Burkhart, 5690 Buehler Line, RR 1, Wallenstein.
A family service will be held on Wednesday, May 8, 2024 at 9 a.m. then to Weaverland Mennonite Meeting House for burial and public service.
Burkhart, Clair Cletus
December 25, 1935 - June 28, 2024
Clair Cletus Burkhart, 88, of Cochranville, PA, went home to be the Lord on Friday, June 28, 2024 at Jenners Pond, West Grove. He was born on Christmas Day of 1935 to the late Benjamin and Ruthanna (Hertzler) Burkhart.
Clair will be deeply missed by his wife of 68 years, Miriam (Grosh) Burkhart and their children: Edward C. (MaryAnn Cully) Burkhart of Oxford, Benjamin M. (Michelle Slack) Burkhart of Cochranville, and Rose (Randy) Lane of Cochranville. Clair was preceded in death by their first born, Kenneth Clair Burkhart who passed after birth. Clair had seven grandchildren: Crystal Lane, Kurt Lane, Clinton Burkhart, Galen Burkhart, Raymond Burkhart, Dane Burkhart, Lance Burkhart, 5 great-grandchildren: Wyatt Festerman, Elijah Lane McCool, Azalea Burkhart, Marley Burkhart, and Cash Burkhart. Clair was the brother to Erma Herr, and late Dorothy Yohe, and Wayne Burkhart.
Although Clair only attended school until the 8th grade, he became a dedicated, helpful, and successful pillar within his community. He and Miriam ran a dairy farm from 1960 to 1967, and then he started his own excavation company when he moved in 1967 to Faggs Manor Road, where they lived together until Clair's passing. Clair was the township supervisor for Londonderry for twenty-two years and held the position as the church treasurer at Faith Bible Chapel for many years. He was a founding member of the church.
Clair was committed to his family, to the Lord, and to his business. He enjoyed his work and tinkering with his John Deere tractors. He took great pride in his tractor that made ice cream, taking it to local shows and fairs. He was also well known for his sweet corn and allowed the entire community to come harvest it. He and Miriam traveled, and he enjoyed family trips to the Outer Banks in North Carolina where he flew kites and fished with the grandsons.
There will be a viewing at Shivery Funeral Home, 111 Elizabeth Street Christiana, on Monday, July 1st from 6 to 8 p.m. Funeral service will be at Gateway Church, 160 Cowan Road Parkesburg, on Tuesday, July 2nd at 11:30 a.m. with a time to greet the family from 10:30 a.m. until time of service. Private interment will take place prior to the service.
Burkhart, Donald Kreider
November 15, 1931 - April 10, 2024
Donald Kreider Burkhart, 92, of Harrisonburg, passed away Wednesday, April 10, 2024, at Mumaw House of Virginia Mennonite Retirement Community.
Mr. Burkhart was born Nov. 15, 1931, in Lancaster, Pa., and was a son of the late Raymond and Ruth Kreider Burkhart.
He was raised in Lancaster County, Pa., and as a young man he worked as a volunteer through the Mennonite Voluntary Service, where he met his future wife, Carol. A large portion of his life was spent as a wholesale florist, running the family greenhouses, growing carnations, geraniums and other flowering plants. He was also an accomplished Volkswagen mechanic, working on older model VW bugs.
After his retirement, Donald and his wife, Carol, moved to Harrisonburg from Lancaster to be closer to their grandchildren. Here, he worked for Park View Mennonite Church and enjoyed volunteering his time at VMRC. Donald was also an avid bicyclist and was known to bike 100 miles a week in the countryside and around town. He continued cycling until the impressive age of 90. Throughout his entire life, his faith was extremely important to him, and you could witness this through his kindness to everyone he met. Don was a gentle soul, and he will be deeply missed by his friends and family.
On Aug. 7, 1955, he married Carol Darlene Gaeddert Burkhart, who preceded him in death Jan. 28, 2023.
Donald is survived by two daughters, Ann Burkhart of Sacramento, Calif., and Elizabeth Benbow of Staunton, Va.; and two grandsons, Jameson Benbow and Liam Benbow, both of San Diego, Calif.
In addition to his parents and wife of 67 years, he was preceded in death by his daughter, Christine Burkhart; brother, Jay Burkhart; and sister, Dorothy Sweigart.
A memorial service will be held at 4:30 p.m. Thursday, April 18, 2024, at Park View Mennonite Church, with Pastors Phil Kniss and Paula Stoltzfus officiating.
The family will receive friends after the service in the fellowship hall at Park View Mennonite Church until 6:30 p.m., and refreshments will be provided.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be sent to Mennonite Central Committee.
Burkholder, Anne S. Stoltzfus
August 18, 1940 - September 1, 2024
Anne S. Burkholder, 84, of Screven, GA. passed away on Sunday, September 1, 2024 under the care of Hospice of South Georgia. The Pennsylvania native had lived in Wayne County for the past 41 years was a member of the Lake Grace Mennonite Church.
The homemaker enjoyed her family and extended that love with all of the babies she would keep. Her hobbies were sewing, baking and flower gardening. Her husband of 46 years, Richard W. Burkholder preceded her in death.
Survivors are daughters, Renita Potter of Odum and Rochelle (Hans) Weaver of Screven; sons, Robin (Char) Burkholder of Sarasota, FL., Richard W. (Beth) Burkholder II of Lancaster, Ohio, Reinhart (Ruth) Burkholder of Milford, Ind., Ronald (Brandi) Burkholder of Odum; 19 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren; sisters, Sadie Overholt, Katie (Lawrence) Hartshorne, Fran Peterson, Lydia (Dan) Smoker, Naomi Smoker and Elizabeth (Ralph) Martin; brothers, Emmanuel Stoltzfus, Ben (Barb) Stoltzfus, Jonas (Lois) Stoltzfus, John (Marti) Stoltzfus and Steve (Carol) Stoltzfus; a host of nieces and nephews.
Funeral services will be 10 AM Friday, September 6, 2024 at Rinehart and Sons Chapel. Interment will follow in the Lake Grace Mennonite Church Cemetery. Active pallbearers will be her sons and grandsons.
Visitation will be 4 to 7 PM Thursday, September 5, 2024 at Lake Grace Mennonite Church.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice of South Georgia, 1624 Sunset Blvd., Jesup, GA 31545.
Rinehart and Sons Funeral Home of Jesup is in charge of arrangements.
Burkholder, Donnabelle Lee Riegsecker
August 25, 1936 - June 15, 2024
Donnabelle Lee (Riegsecker) Burkholder, age 87 years, passed from this life to her eternal home on June 15, 2024. She was born on August 25, 1936, on the family farm near Lauber Hill in rural Archbold, to Albert and Leah (Smead) Riegsecker. She married LaVern (Bud) Burkholder on June 2, 1957, at Central Mennonite. Bud preceded her in death on November 5, 1988.
Surviving are their children: Ron (Nancy) Burkholder, Archbold; Cathy (Don) Frey, Wauseon; Dawn (Scott) Thomas, Goshen, IN; and daughter-in-law Joan (Tracy) Wyse, Archbold; 8 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; and a sister, Carol Macey, Cypress, CA; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Donnabelle was preceded in death by Bud, her parents, son Ken, and siblings Sharon, Norman, and Darold Riegsecker.
She lived her life in the Pettisville area, having graduated from Pettisville High School in 1954.
She was a member of Central Mennonite Church. Although she wasn’t able to attend church services for the past few years, she faithfully watched the live stream each week. She was a prayer warrior for many people, including her family.
After high school, Donnabelle worked at Sauder Woodworking. She began a baking career by making bread and doughnuts from home and selling them. When the children were young, she took a cake decorating class and became well known for her wedding cakes, birthday cakes, etc. After the children were all in school, Donnabelle left her baking business and took a factory job at ConAgra (LaChoy), where she worked until retirement, making many good friends.
After retirement, Donnabelle enjoyed making hand-stamped greeting cards. Family, friends, and church members were blessed when receiving her special greetings.
The visitation will be on Wednesday, June 19, at Central Mennonite from 1-2:45 pm, with burial following at the Pettisville Cemetery. A celebration of life service will be at the church at 4 pm, with Pastor Ron Kauffman officiating. A light meal will be served at the church. Short Funeral Home in Archbold has been entrusted with the arrangements. The family suggests memorial gifts be given to CHP Hospice or Gideon Bibles.
Burkholder, Helen E. Hiestand
September 5, 1934 - January 6, 2024
Helen E. Burkholder of Lititz transitioned peacefully into the loving arms of Jesus on Saturday, January 6th.[2024] Born in Lancaster on September 5,1934, she was the daughter of the late John S. and Esther Erb Hiestand. Helen was the faithful and loving wife of Roy S. Burkholder, with whom she celebrated 68 years of marriage on April 23rd. Helen demonstrated a genuine love for the Lord, her family, and everyone she encountered.
Helen graduated from East Donegal High School in 1952 and Eastern Mennonite College in 1954. For most of her life, she shared her love of music with numerous students through teaching piano. For 40 years, she imparted her knowledge of God's Word to public school students through the Warwick Released Time. Early in their married life, she and Roy worked in the summer camp program at Tel Hai Camp in Honey Brook. Helen was an active member of Neffsville Mennonite Church, where she served as pianist, children's Bible teacher, choir member, and kitchen worker.
Surviving, in addition to her husband, are 3 children: Carolyn, wife of Roger North from Lititz; Jon, husband of Karen Vaselaros from Manheim; and Kenneth, husband of Karen Frankenfield from Dublin. She is also survived by 8 grandchildren: Laura, Andrew, Garrison, Steven, Kirsten, Alyssa, Matthew, and Justin; and 11 great-grandchildren. Helen was preceded in death by a brother, John E. Hiestand, husband of Dianne, and is survived by 3 siblings: Robert E. Hiestand, husband of Barbara; Marian Carpenter, wife of Larry; and Nadyne Batts.
A celebration of life service will be held on Saturday, January 13th at 1:00 PM at Neffsville Mennonite Church, 2371 Lititz Pike, Lancaster. There will be a time to greet the family at the fellowship meal, following the service.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in her honor to Warwick Released Time, P.O. Box 633, Lititz, PA 17543.
Burkholder, James Andrew
October 16, 1959 - March 26, 2024
James Andrew Burkholder, age 64, of Millersburg, Ohio passed away Tuesday, March 26, 2024 at Aultman Hospital, Canton, Ohio surrounded by his family, following an extended illness.
Funeral services will be 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, April 2nd at Mennonite Christian Assembly, Fredericksburg, Ohio with Pastor John Risner officiating. Burial will be at the church cemetery. Friends may call from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Monday at the church and also one hour prior to the service on Tuesday.
James was born October 16, 1959 in Wooster, Ohio. He was adopted by Aden and Ada (Mast) Burkholder in October of 1967 at the age of seven. On June 24, 1998 he married Sue Rogers and she survives.
James attended the Holmes County Training Center from 1980 to 2020. He previously worked 3 years at Millersburg Ice, 10 years at Merrolott, and worked a number of years at Schlabach Builders. He was a member of MCA. His favorite passion was basketball. He played 15 plus years for the Holmes County Bucks, and loved to challenge his brother-in-law, Darrell to a good basketball game. James also ran track for the Special Olympics. He loved to go fishing and color pictures for his family. James made friends wherever he went. He was definitely one of a kind and was loved by many people. Willis and Mandy Byler were very special to James and also the Crist Yoder family. He was known as grandpa to Willis and Mandy's children Ina, James and Suzy.
Surviving in addition to his loving, faithful wife, Sue of 25 years are his father, Aden Burkholder of Millersburg: his siblings; Philip (Vera) Burkholder of Holmesville, Mary (Darrell) Hale of Shreve, Wanda Burkholder of Wooster, and Deb Swinehart of West Salem: brothers-in-law, Tom (Connie) Rogers of Michigan and James Rogers of Solon, Ohio: and sisters-in-law, Kathleen (Tom) Covell of Rochester, New York and Amy (Tom) Zipp of Cleveland, Ohio. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews, Nathan (Chelsey) Baker of Wooster, Nichole (Austin) Swinehart of West Salem, Natalie Baker of West Salem, Hunter Hale of Shreve, a very special niece Alyssa Hale, Lindsay Rogers of Denver, Colorado, Matthew and Elizabeth Nojay of Rochester, New York, Anna Zipp of Baltimore, Maryland and Lauren Zipp of Washington, DC. Washington DC: a great niece, Wrenley Violet Bakies: and great nephews, Hunter Leroy Swinehart, Warren Kia Bakies, and Lincoln Tate Swinehart.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Ada Burkholder in 2016: a special aunt, Sarah Mast: his biological parents and grandparents: and in-laws, Robert and Ruth Rogers.
Burkholder, James W.
December 26, 1948 - February 22, 2024
James W. Burkholder, 75, of Valley Road Tamaqua, PA, died February 22, 2024, at home in Walker Twp. Born December 26, 1948, son of late Titus K. and Elizabeth M. (Weaver) Burkholder.
James was a bishop in the Richland District of the Eastern PA Mennonite Church and pastor of the New England Valley congregation at Tamaqua. He was by occupation a crop / poultry farmer and an electrician.
Preceded in death by his wife of forty-two years, Rachel G. (Hostetter) Burkholder whom he married March 28, 1970; two sisters, Ida Brubacker (Paul) of Carlisle, PA; Rachel Hursh (Earl Ray) of Middleburg, PA; and granddaughter Amanda Burkholder.
Survived by four daughters: Rhoda Zimmerman (Mitchell) of Pine Grove, PA; Martha Rudolph (Lee) of Mexico; Joanna Rudolph (Arlin) of Aspers, PA; Susanna Carpenter (Nathanael) of Bristol, GA; Eight sons: Nathan (Linda) of Tamaqua, PA; Samuel (Joyce) of Paraguay, South America; Mark (Lois) of Tamaqua, PA; Matthew (Keturah) of Guatemala, Central America; Andrew (Elizabeth) of Tamaqua, PA; Philip (Louise) of Tamaqua, PA; Timothy (Rebecca) of Tamaqua, PA; Daniel (Denise) of Warrensburg, MO; Seven sisters: Laverne Erb (Harry) of Scurry, TX; Vera Hege (Ira) of Hagerstown, MD; Mary Wenger (Clarence) of Manheim, PA; Sara Zimmerman (Roy) of New Holland, PA; Esther Sensenig (James) of Arcola, IL; Rhoda Martin (Dale) of Ephrata, PA; Miriam Nolt (Marlin) of Myerstown, PA; Four brothers: Eby (Ruth) of Ephrata, PA; Jesse (Mary Ellen) of Spring Mills, PA; David (Tracy) of Mifflinburg, PA; John (Anne) of Colby, WI; eighty-five grandchildren; eleven great-grandchildren.
Viewings will be held 2 to 4:00 p.m. Saturday, March 2, New England Valley Mennonite Church, 1307 Valley Rd., Tamaqua, PA 18252, also 2 to 4:00 p.m. and 6 to 8:00 p.m. on Sunday, March 3 at Fairview Reception Ctr., 141 Jackson Rd., Lebanon, PA 17042.
Funeral Service will be held at Fairview Reception Ctr., 10 o'clock a.m. Monday, March 4, 2024.
Interment, New England Valley Church cemetery, Tamaqua, PA.
Arrangements by E. Franklin Griffiths Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc. of 655 East Broad Street Tamaqua, Pennsylvania.
Burkholder, Lavern Dean
June 21, 1940 - January 28, 2024
Lavern Dean Burkholder Sr., 83, of Nappanee, died at 2:22 pm on Sunday, January 28, [2024] at Elkhart General Hospital. He was born on June 21, 1940, in Nappanee, to Walter and Edna (Schlabaugh) Burkholder. On June 26, 1969, in Nappanee, he married Verna Yoder; she died March 8, 2010. Then on June 18, 2011, in Goshen, he married Gertie (Yoder) Hawks, she survives.
Survivors in addition to his wife are three sons, Steven (Linda) Burkholder, Gary Burkholder, Lavern Burkholder, Jr.; daughter, Jolene (James) Yoder; nine grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren; three brothers, Glen (Freida) Burkholder, Wade (Miriam) Burkholder, Norman (Dora) Burkholder; sister, Rosa Burkholder; sister-in-law, Eva Burkholder.
He was preceded in death by his first wife; parents; brother, Walter Burkholder, Jr.
Lavern worked as a tool and machinery maintenance man in the RV industry for most of his life.
Visitation will be from 2:00 - 4:00 pm and 5:00 - 7:00 pm on Friday, February 2 at Griner Church, 12418 CR 20 Middlebury. Funeral services will be at 10:00 am on Saturday, February 3, also at the church. Services will be conducted by Pastors Eli Schlabach and Dan Bontrager. Burial will be in Griner Cemetery, Middlebury. Miller-Stewart Funeral Home, Middlebury, is handling the arrangements.
Burkholder, Wanda Sue
December 1, 1972 - April 7, 2024
Wanda Sue Burkholder, age 51, of Wooster, Ohio passed away Sunday, April 7, 2024 at Summa Health System, Akron City Hospital surrounded by her family.
Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Friday, April 12th at Mennonite Christian Assembly, Fredericksburg, Ohio with Pastor John Risner officiating. Burial will be at Fredericksburg Eastside Cemetery. Friends may call from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday at the church and also one hour prior to the service on Friday.
Wanda was born December 1, 1972 and was adopted by Aden and Ada (Mast) Burkholder.
Wanda had attended MCA and made her confession of faith. She loved her nieces and nephews, animals and her dog, Abby.
Wanda gave the gift of life by being an organ donor. She was loved and will be deeply missed by her friends and family.
Surviving is her father, Aden Burkholder of Millersburg: her siblings; Philip (Vera) Burkholder of Holmesville and Mary (Darrell) Hale of Shreve: many nieces and nephews; Nathan (Chelsey) Baker of Wooster, Nichole (Austin) Swinehart of West Salem, Natalie Baker of West Salem, Hunter Hale of Shreve, Alyssa Hale of Wooster: and great nephews; Hunter Leroy Swinehart, Warren Kia Bakies, and Lincoln Tate Swinehart. She is also survived by a special friend, Carol Miller: friends and neighbors, Hud and Marie Rutter: and her good friend Zo Aiken.
She was preceded in death by her mother, Ada Burkholder: paternal grandparents, Eli and Sovilla Burkholder: maternal grandparents, Andy and Anna Mast: a special aunt, Sarah Mast: a brother, James Burkholder: and a great niece, Wrenley Violet Bakies.
Burmeister, Ruth Brubacher
December 11, 1926 - November 9, 2024
Ruth (Brubacher) Burmeister, age 97, passed away Saturday, November 9, 2024 at her home in Goshen. She was born December 11, 1926 in Elkhart County, Indiana, the oldest daughter of William and Annie S. (Weaver) Brubacher.
On Sept. 5, 1954 she married Henry F. Burmeister of Los Angeles, California. They were married 70 years. He survives with three daughters: Rebecca (Louis) Robles, Sharon (Bruce) Munn, and Cynthia (Rory) Comstock; five grandsons; and four great-grandchildren. Additional survivors are four sisters, Emma Zimmerman, Florence (Vernard) Guengerich, Naomi ( Alvin) Martin and Esther (Steve) Walter; one brother, Wayne (Joyce) Brubacher, and two sisters-in-law, Lydia Brubacher and Lydia Zimmerman.
Preceding her in death were her parents; brothers, John Brubacher and Paul Brubacher; sisters, Susie Zimmerman and Wilma Shaum; and her son-in-law, Louis Robles.
Ruth was a loving and devoted wife, mother, and foster mother to infants. She enjoyed gardening and being a homemaker, as well as, participating in church activities and women’s groups. She had the gift of hospitality and a passion for entertaining and cooking for her family, her friends and church family. Henry and Ruth also enjoyed traveling to multiple countries and places together. She cared deeply for others and walked faithfully with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
Visitation is Friday, November 15, 2024 from 10 a.m. to noon at Yoder-Culp Funeral Home. A short graveside service at Violett Cemetery will take place afterward.
Byler, Linda J. Beachy
May 31, 1979 - March 8,2024
Linda J. Beachy Byler, age 44 years, 9 months and 8 days, of the Burke’s Garden area of Tazewell, VA passed away Friday, March 8, 2024. Born May 31, 1979, she was the daughter of John Edwin Beachy and Barbara J. Miller Beachy. Linda lived in matrimony 25 years, 5 months and 13 days. Linda was of the Christian faith and she was a member of Old Order Amish of Burke’s Garden. She loved to sing and read Bible stories to her children. She found great joy in being a mother and being there for her husband Allen and her dear children and grandchildren. She will be greatly missed by her husband and family, but she leaves them with many precious memories. She passed away with her daughters Lydia Byler and Ellen Schrock, son-in-law, Orla Schrock and granddaughter, Judi Rose Schrock one niece and one friend. She is also preceded in death by her grandparents, infant sister, brother, Ernest and brother-in-law, Mervin.
Left to cherish her memory are her parents, John Edwin and Barbara J. Beachy and David and Lydia Byler; husband, Allen D. Byler; sons, Ernest A. Byler and wife Saloma J. Byler, Nelson A. Byler, Rudy A. Byler, John Edwin Byler and Harvey A. Byler; daughter, Judith A. Byler; grandchild, Micah Orlen Schrock; sisters, Nancy Hertzler and husband Ruben, Millie Miller and husband David, Lucy Yoder and husband Levi and Ruth Detweiler and husband Daniel; brother, Benjamen Beachy and wife Leanna Riley; four brothers-in-law and six sisters-in-law, Harvey (Miriam), Arlene (Monroe Yoder) of Marion, KY, Kathryn (Ray Yoder) of Oblong, IL, Susan (Ivan Yoder) of Mohak, TN, Lizzie (Mark Schlabach) of Dawson, GA, Nevin (Sarah Ann) of Lamar, MO, David Jr. (Elsie) of Marion KY, Verba (Marion Plank) of Fredonia, PA, Rudy (Nettie) of Marion KY and Alma (Loren Yoder) of Hutchinson, KS.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be sent to Burke’s Garden Amish Donation Fund, c/o First Sentinel Bank, PO Box 167, Tazewell, VA 24651.
Visitation will begin at 1:00 PM, Monday, March 18, 2024. Funeral services will be held in Burke’s Garden, VA at 9:00 AM DST, Tuesday, March 19, 2024, with Bishop Paul Schlabach, Jr. officiating. Toby Miller, Chester Beachy, Paul Troyer and Johnny Beachy will serve as pallbearers. Interment will follow funeral services at Burke’s Garden Amish Cemetery in Burke’s Garden, VA.
Byler, Lydia A.
June 17, 1999 - March 8, 2024
Lydia A. Byler, age 24 years, 8 months and 20 days, of the Burke’s Garden area of Tazewell, VA passed away Friday, March 8, 2024 in Clark County, WI. Born June 17, 1999, she was a daughter of Allen D. Byler and the late Linda J. Beachy Byler. She was of the Christian faith and she was a member of Old Order Amish of Burke’s Garden. Lydia enjoyed helping her mother and reaching out to her younger siblings. She also loved to sing. She will be greatly missed by family and friends, but she leaves them with many precious memories. She passed away with her mother, Linda J. Byler; sister, Ellen Schrock; brother-in-law, Orla Schrock; niece, Judi Rose Schrock and two friends. She is also preceded in death by two uncles, Ernest and Mervin.
Left to cherish her memory are her father, Allen D. Byler; brothers, Ernest A. Byler and wife Saloma J. Byler of Tazewell, VA, Nelson A. Byler, Rudy A. Byler, John Edwin A. Byler, and Harvey A. Byler of the home; sister, Judith A. Byler of the home; nephew Micah Orlen Schrock of Tazewell, VA; grandparents, David and Lydia Byler of Marion, KY and John Edwin and Barbara Beachy of Tazewell, VA. Five uncles, 10 aunts and many cousins and friends also survive.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be sent to Burke’s Garden Amish Donation Fund, c/o First Sentinel Bank, PO Box 167, Tazewell, VA 24651.
Visitation will begin at 1:00 PM, Monday, March 18, 2024. Funeral services will be held in Burke’s Garden, VA at 9:00 AM DST, Tuesday, March 19, 2024, with Bishop Paul Schlabach, Jr. officiating. Allen Yoder, Harvey Byler, Jr., Nevin Yoder and Raymond Byler will serve as pallbearers. Interment will follow funeral services at Burke’s Garden Amish Cemetery in Burke’s Garden, VA.
Byler, Ruby Alice Yoder
April 30, 1944 - May 31, 2024
Ruby Alice (Yoder) Byler, 80, of Millersburg, Indiana, passed away from complications due to heart surgery on Friday, May 31, [2024]. Born April 30, 1944, in Haven, Kansas, to William D. and Susie (Yoder) Yoder, she married Elmer J. Byler on October 17, 1963.
She is survived by her husband; two sons, Joe (Rhoda) Byler of Middlebury and Dan (Dawn) Byler of Shipshewana; three daughters, Mary (Jimmy) Crabtree of Bethpage, Tennessee, Eileen (Rollan) Lehman of McMinnville, Oregon, and Doretta (Darrell) Mast of Millersburg; 18 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren; two brothers, Bill (Lora) Yoder of Syracuse and David (Ida Mae) Yoder of Shipshewana.
She was preceded in death by her parents; daughter-in-law, Lisa Byler; great-grandson, Chevi Malachi Henry; ten brothers and nine sisters. Ruby was a member of Townline Mennonite Church and enjoyed time with her family, traveling, quilting and gardening.
Visitation will be from 4:00 - 7:00 pm on Tuesday, June 4 and 1:00 - 7:00 pm on Wednesday, June 5 at Townline Mennonite Church, 2165 S. 1000 W., Shipshewana. Funeral services will be at 10:00 am on Thursday, June 6 also at the church. Services will be conducted by Pastor Dean Yoder and Pastor Scott Yoder of Plymouth. Burial will be in Christner Cemetery, Topeka.