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
H1
Hartman, Esther Marie Snyder Metzler Hostetler
March 28, 1920 - April 4, 2024
Esther Marie Hartman, 104, of Goshen, died Thursday, April 4, 2024 at Greencroft Healthcare.
She was born March 28, 1920 in Elkhart County to Charles and Sadie (Kefarber) Snyder.
She is survived by three daughters, Sharon Erb, Benton, Pat Stahly, Goshen, and Margaret Wenger, Elkhart; a son, Don (Nancy) Metzler, Angola; 11 grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren; and 13 great-great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her first husband, Titus Metzler in 1973; second husband, Dan Hostetler in 1998; third husband, Ira Hartman in 2017; and two brothers; Harold and Paul Snyder.
A 1938 New Paris High School graduate. Esther sold chickens and eggs at South Bend Farmer’s Market for over 30 years, she was a farm wife and mother. She enjoyed cooking for church meals and was famous for her pies and cookies. Florida was her favorite place to be during the winter months.
Visitation will Tuesday, April 9 from 3 to 7 p.m. and Wednesday from 10 until the 11 a.m. funeral service at Yellow Creek Mennonite Church. Pastor Wes Bontrager will officiate.
Burial will follow at Yellow Creek Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be directed to Yellow Creek Mennonite Church.
Yoder-Culp Funeral Home, Goshen, IN
Submitted by: Thelma Hoover Martin
Hartman, Leonard Roy
December 17, 1941 - March 28, 2024
Leonard Roy Hartman, 82, Edmonson, Texas, peacefully passed to his eternal rest, Thursday, March 28, 2024. He was born in Goshen, Indiana, on December 17, 1941 to Elmer and Alice (Hartzler) Hartman. He was united in marriage January 1, 1963 to Viola Ramer. He was a member of Plainview Bible Fellowship.
He is survived by his wife, Viola, and five children: Russel (Joyce), Shelbyville, Tennessee; Jean Martin, (Curvin), Eureka, Nevada; Gloria Kuepfer, (Timothy), Keota, Oklahoma; Dorcas Bear (Micheal), Patriot, Ohio; Lamar (Rhonda), Edmonson, Texas; 24 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren; two brothers: Peter and Ralph; and one sister Miriam Hartman.
He was proceeded in death by his parents Elmer and Alice Hartman, two brothers, John and Dennis and two sisters: Lucinda McGrath, and Eunice Byler.
Visitation will be held at the Baptist Church in Edmonson. On Sunday, March 31, from 2-4 and 6-8 PM. The funeral service will be held at Northwest Church of Christ, with Seth Hege, Carl Steiner, Sherlyn Steiner, Glendon Wadel, and Sidney Landis officiating. Interment at Halfway Community Cemetery.
He will be greatly missed by his family and all who knew him . We wait with anticipation when we will meet again in the land of Eternal Rest where God will wipe away all our tears.
As a family we wish to express our thanks to each one for helping in so many ways and for remembering us in your thoughts and prayers. Please continue to pray for us as we adjust to life without our husband, father, and grandfather.
Heatwole, Dwight Shank
June 24, 1930 - March 4, 2024
Dwight Shank Heatwole, 93, passed away on March 4, 2024. He is survived by their four children, Patricia Hertzler (Gene), Richard Heatwole (Marjorie), Evelyn Borntrager (Philip) and Edwin Heatwole (Eileen); 13 grandchildren; 39 great-grandchildren and siblings, Esther Shank, Carolyn Reed, John R. Heatwole, Harold Heatwole, Roy Heatwole and Elizabeth Yoder. Deceased are his beloved wife of 70 years, Fannie Heatwole; two grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and siblings, Dewitt, Ruth, Mary Ethel, Chester, Charles and Glenn Heatwole.
Dwight was the son of Joseph and Fannie Shank Heatwole, both deceased.
Dwight was a dairy farmer by trade, but his real passion was ministry. Through the years, he was involved in many areas of church ministries; teacher, Sunday School Superintendent, Bible School, youth leader, pastor, interim pastor at Faith Mennonite Church in South Boston, assistant overseer of Northern District and Secretary of Relief with Virginia Mennonite Conference (1964-1976) and chaplain at the Linville Prison Camp (1968-1975).
During their retirement years, Dwight and Fannie traveled extensively local and abroad. Dwight enjoyed blessing his family with items he crafted in his workshop, grandfather clocks, flower stands, magazine racks, and stools. Dwight’s life reflected his faith and commitment to faithfully serving God and church.
Dwight and Fannie were members of the Morning View Mennonite Church, Singers Glen, Va., where Dwight was pastor for 20 years (1975-1995).
The family wishes to thank everyone for their support and prayers during Dwight's end of life journey. Thanks also to the nursing staff at VMRC Crestwood Memory Care Unit.
Viewing and family visitation will be Thursday 6-8 p.m. at the Dayton Mennonite Church, 4887 John Wayland Highway, Dayton, VA 22821. Interment will be Friday 10 a.m. with Celebration of Life to follow at 11 a.m. at Dayton Mennonite Church.
Memorial contributions may be made to Heralds of Hope, P.O. Box 3, Breezewood, PA 15533.
Online condolences may be made to the family by visiting www.mcmullenfh.com.
McMullen Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Heller, Robert Lloyd
November 20, 1934 - February 17, 2024
Robert Lloyd Heller, 89, was born in Hinkletown, PA to Lloyd and Mabel Brubaker Heller on November 20, 1934.
He died on February 17, 2024 in Zerbe Retirement Community. He lived in Hinkletown, PA for 8 years. He then moved to Narvon, PA where he lived on his parent's farm for many years. He also lived in Honeybrook. One of the highlights of his life was the time he spent in Belize in 1961 & helping in vacation Bible School in Alabama for many summers. He was an active member of the Cambridge Mennonite Church in PA. He enjoyed meeting people and making friends.
Robert is survived by his brother Herbert (Dorothy Bauman) Heller of Flomaton, AL and sister Ruth Ann (Larry) Wolfe of Akron, PA. He is also survived by a foster brother Karl (Nancy Good) Kimmet of Lincoln, PA, a foster sister Joan Daniels of Terre Hill, PA, a brother-in-law Melvin Burkholder of Ephrata, PA and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by brother Terry Heller and a foster sister Ellen Burkholder.
A Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, February 24, 2024 at 12:00 PM at Cambridge Mennonite Church, 2906 Cambridge Road, Honey Brook, PA 19344 with Glenn Esh, Phil Groff and Ray Burkholder officiating. A Viewing will be held for one hour prior to the time of service. Interment in Martindale Mennonite Church Cemetery.
Groff High Funeral Home in New Holland is entrusted with the funeral arrangements.
Helmuth, Amanda Raber
June 14, 1947 - January 16, 2024
Amanda Helmuth, 76, of Topeka (district: 29), died at 2:35 pm on Tuesday, January 16, 2024, at her residence, following an illness. She was born on June 14, 1947 in Topeka, to Melvin and Susie (Miller) Raber. On June 11, 1970, in Topeka, she married Milo Helmuth, he survives.
Survivors in addition to her husband are daughter, Marietta (LeRoy) Weaver of White Pigeon, MI; four sons, Marvin (Marilyn) Helmuth of Topeka, Merle (friend Sarah) Helmuth of Middlebury, Melvin (Melissa) Helmuth of Nappanee, Marion (Janelle) Helmuth of Hudson; 21 grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; a sisters, Lydiann (Joe) Stutzman of LaGrange; a brother, Levi (Irene) Raber of Wolcottville; two brothers-in-law, Glen (Carolyn) Lambright of Topeka, Perry (Carolyn) Miller of Topeka.
She was preceded in death by her parents; two sisters, Annie Lambright, and Ada Miller; a brother, Mahlon Raber. Amanda was a homemaker and a member of the Old Order Amish Church.
Visitation will be after 1:00 pm on Wednesday, January 17, and all day Thursday, January 18, at the Marvin Helmuth residence, 6255 S. 900 W., Topeka. Funeral services will be at 9:00 am on Friday, January 19, at the same residence. Services will be conducted by Bishop LaVern Lambright and the home ministers. Burial will be in Hawpatch Cemetery, Topeka.
Helmuth, Amelia Irene Miller
July 6, 1952 - January 21, 2024
Amelia Irene (Miller) Helmuth, age 71, died peacefully on January 21, 2024. She was born on July 6, 1952, in Lagrange, Indiana, as the daughter of Simon W. & Lydia (Schrock) Miller. She married Willard O. Helmuth on November 22, 1979. They lived in Holy Matrimony for 44 years & 2 months.
Willard and Irene have 6 children- 4 sons and 2 daughters: Steven, who married Lucy Herschberger (Arthur, IL); Nelson, who married JoAnn Herschberger (Arthur, IL); Lydianna, who married Marcus Kaufman (Lovington, IL); Larry (Fort Collins, Colorado); Marnita, who married Christy Jess (Arthur, IL); and Melvin, who married Marnita Schlabach (Arthur, IL).
Additional surviving mourners include 24 grandchildren; 1 sister- Anna, married to Elmer Miller (Goshen, IN); 1 sister-in-law- Larraine Miller (Shipshewana, IN); 2 brothers: Dan, married to Cheryl (Dayton, Oregon), and Harley, married to Lisa (Mount Vernon, Oregon). She was preceded in death by her parents, her brother Freeman Miller, and 2 granddaughters: Marlys LuAnn and Heather Joy.
Irene enjoyed birds (& most of nature), gardening, and her family. She faithfully and eagerly served her husband, children, and grandchildren until her health no longer allowed. Irene was devoted to reading her Bible, wherein she found the Bread of Life. The one she loves the most is Jesus of Nazareth. This was evident by her continual acknowledgement of and remorse for her sins, her faith that the God-man Jesus took upon Himself the wrath of God her sins deserved, and her steadfast hope in His promises of eternal life.
Irene suffered much but not in vain, as she was filling up in her flesh what is lacking in the afflictions of Christ (Col. 1:24). Her many surgeries for various reasons and especially her battle with cancer over the past 7 or 8 years were used to prepare her and those around her for glory. Her favorite Bible verse was Is. 41:10: “Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be afraid, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will also help you, I will also uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
Irene went to be with her beloved Savior at 3:20 a.m. as she fell asleep peacefully in the Lord while in her bed at home. Her loved ones are grateful that her suffering has ended and that her joy is complete, yet they mourn her departure.
Visitation ceremonies are scheduled for Monday, January 22, 2024 from 2:00 PM to 7:30 PM and Tuesday, January 23, 2024 from 10:00 AM to 7:30 PM. The Funeral service is scheduled to begin at 9:00 AM on Wednesday, January 24, 2024. Visitations and funeral will be held 1 mile South of Arthur at Helmuth Custom Kitchens’ West building. Steven Brenneman will be officiating. Burial will be in the Otto Cemetery in Rural Arthur, Illinois.
Helmuth, Betty Fern Bontrager
November 21, 1958 - February 9, 2024
Betty Fern Helmuth, 65, of Shipshewana, (district: 51-2), died at 12:55 am on Friday, February 9, [2024] at her residence. She was born on November 21, 1958, in LaGrange, to Ervin M. and Anna A. (Wingard) Bontrager. On September 10, 1981, she married Lyle Ray Helmuth, he survives.
Survivors in addition to her husband are four daughters, Lorraine (Eddie) Detweiler, Lynita (Michael) Miller, Shari Helmuth, Kristina (Lyle) Bontrager all of Shipshewana; 11 grandchildren; two sisters, Amanda Skaggs of LaGrange, Wilma (Atlee) Chupp of Shipshewana; special niece, Doris (Jake) Miller of Shipshewana; several nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents and a brother-in-law, Joe Skaggs.
Betty was a homemaker and a member of the Old Order Amish Church.
Visitation will be after 3:00 pm on Friday, February 9 and all-day Saturday, February 10 at the family residence, 10085 W. 250 N., Shipshewana. Funeral services will be at 9:30 am on Sunday, February 11 also at the family residence. Services will be conducted by the home ministers. Burial will be in Naylor Cemetery, Shipshewana. Miller-Stewart Funeral Home, Middlebury, is handling the arrangements.
Helmuth, Jemima L.
February 14, 2024 - February 14, 2024
Jemima L. Helmuth, stillborn daughter of Leonard Jay and Rachel A. (Hochstetler) Helmuth of LaGrange (district: 3) was born at 8:58 pm, on Wednesday, February 14, [2014] at Parkview Regional Medical Center, Fort Wayne.
Surviving in addition to her parents are siblings, Nathan, Miriam, Ivan, Inez, and Margaret; grandparents, Floyd and Katie Helmuth of LaGrange and Andrew and Carrie Hochstetler of LaGrange.
She was preceded in death by her twin brothers, Michael and Matthew.
There will be one hour of visitation prior to the 10:00 am funeral service on Saturday, February 17, at the Melvin Schrock Residence: 3655 West 200 North, LaGrange. Services will be conducted by Bishop Andrew Mast and the home ministers. Burial will be in Mast Cemetery, LaGrange. Miller-Stewart Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.
Helmuth, Lydian Rose Zehr
April 25, 1945 - February 7, 2024
Lydian Rose Helmuth, 78, of Goshen, (district: 72), died at 10:08 am, on Wednesday, February 7, [2024] at her residence. She was born on April 25, 1945, in Goshen, to Emanuel and Sarah (Swartzentruber) Zehr. On October 20, 1964, in Goshen, she married Joseph W. Helmuth, he died November 30, 2016.
Surviving are daughter, Janell Rose Helmuth of Goshen; three sons, Allen Joe (Ruth) Helmuth of Millersburg, Jason LaMar (Clara) Helmuth, Dennis LaVon (Miriam) Helmuth both of Murray, KY; daughter-in-law, Carolyn Helmuth of Goshen; 19 grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren; three sisters, Ruby Zehr, Mary Schwartz both of Goshen, Betty (Ben) Eicher of Topeka; three brothers, Perry (Barbara) Zehr of Vicksburg, MI, David (Freda) Zehr, Sam (Mary Lou) Zehr both of Goshen.
She was preceded in death by her husband, parents, and a son, Galen John Helmuth.
Lydian was a homemaker and began working at Essenhaus in the prep kitchen in April of 2017. She was a member of the Old Order Amish Church. Visitation will be after 2:00 pm on Thursday, February 8 and all-day Friday, February 9 at the family residence, 62357 CR 35, Goshen. Funeral services will be at 9:30 am on Saturday, February 10 at the Steven Lambright residence, 62368 CR 35, Goshen. Services will be conducted by Bishop Glen Nisley and the home ministers. Burial will be in Miller 8 Square Cemetery, Goshen. Miller-Stewart Funeral Home, Middlebury, is handling the arrangements.
Herr, Richard K.
November 14, 1937 - March 7, 2024
Richard K. Herr, 86, of Littlestown, PA died March 7, 2024, at home surrounded by family.
Born on November 14, 1937 in Littlestown, PA, he was the son of the late Harold M. and Frances (Kuhns) Herr and the stepson of the late Rhoda (Lehman) Herr. Richard was the loving husband of Hilda M. (Grove) Herr with whom he shared 66 years of marriage.
Richard was a graduate of New Oxford High School in 1955 and served as an officer in Future Farmers of America.
He started farming in 1960 and continued to enjoy this occupation until his later years. During the last fifteen years of his life, he was involved in advising the farming community through Anabaptist Financial.
Richard was ordained to the ministry in 1966 at the age of 28 and served the Hanover, Bair’s and Hostetter’s Mennonite congregations. He was ordained as bishop in 1983 and was involved in various churches, giving bishop oversight on an interim basis.
He traveled extensively to many communities, preaching in evangelistic and church meetings across the United States and Canada.
He was involved in teaching at multiple Bible schools and many local community Bible studies.
Richard served on various boards, committees and educational organizations such as Sharon Mennonite Bible Institute, Faith Builders Educational Programs and Anabaptist Brotherhood.
Richard was a member of Garbers Mennonite Church.
In addition to his loving wife Hilda, Richard is survived by his children, Marcella A. Schlabach and husband Elijah of Seney, MI, Laverne R. Herr and wife Sue of Madisonville, TN, Merle A. Herr and wife Amy of Guys Mills, PA, Diane A. Fuhrman and husband Doug of Thomasville, PA, Marilyn S. Miller and husband Brent of Watsontown, PA, Arlin D. Herr and wife Janetta of Nappanee, IN, Linette J. Horst and husband Randy of Hagerstown, MD, 28 grandchildren, 28 great grandchildren and two siblings, Glenn E. Herr of Gettysburg, PA and Arlene Stambaugh of Hanover, PA. He was preceded in death by a brother, Clair E. Herr.
A funeral service will be held Wednesday, March 13, 2024, at 11:00 am. Visitations will be held Monday, March 11, 2024, from 1-3 pm and 5-8 pm and Tuesday, March 12, 2024, from 1-3 pm and 5-8. Both the funeral and visitations will be held at Calvary Bible Church, 603 Wilson Ave., Hanover, PA. Burial will be in Hostetter’s Mennonite Church Cemetery, Hanover, PA.
The Kenworthy Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc., 269 Frederick Street, Hanover, PA is assisting the family with funeral arrangements. Memories and condolences may be shared at www.kenworthyfh.com. Contributions may be made to Garbers Mennonite Church 1051 Brickcrafter Rd., New Oxford, PA 17350.
Hershberger, Roman S.
November 26, 1941 - January 1, 2024
Roman S. Hershberger 82, of Trail, passed away at the Walnut Hills Nursing Home on Monday, January 1, 2024 following a period of declining health. He was born on November 26, 1941 to the late Sam A. and Orpha (Yoder) Hershberger. On October 2, 1962 he married Amanda E. Hershberger who preceded him in death on January 2, 2022. Roman was retired and a member of the Old Order Amish Church.
He is survived by his three daughters, Marilyn (Robert) Miller of Barlow, OH, Lizzie Marie (Joe) Hershberger of the home, Carol (Monroe) Miller of Fredericksburg; five grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; his siblings, Eli (late Edna) Hershberger, Lizzie (late Wes) Keim, Katie (Delbert) Hershberger, Edna (Mose) Miller, Mary (Mahlon) Miller and Betty (Alvin) Raber.
In addition to his parents and his wife Amanda, he was preceded in death by his sister, Susan Hershberger; brother-in-law, Wes Keim; and sister-in-law, Edna Hershberger.
Funeral services will be held at the Joe Hershberger residence, 2270 TR 415, Dundee, on Thursday, January 4, at 9:00 AM with Bishop Edward Troyer officiating. Burial will follow in the Yoder Cemetery. Friends may call at the Joe Hershberger residence after 2 PM on Tuesday and any time on Wednesday. A special thank you to the church and to Ohio's Hospice LifeCare for their assistance.
Hershberger, Sara Byler
December 9, 1937 - February 27, 2024
Sara (Byler) Hershberger, 86, of Mount Perry, Ohio, went to be with Jesus on February 27,2024. Sara was born December 9, 1937, to Freeman and Ida (Gingerich) Byler of Middlefield, Ohio. On June 9, 1960, she married John J. Hershberger in Burton, OH.
She is survived by her husband, John and their 6 children: Ida Mae (Andy) Miller, Mt. Perry, OH., Steve (Naomi) Hershberger, Maysville, MO., John (Regina) Hershberger, Middlefield, OH., Jadon Hershberger, Lancaster, OH., Sylvan (Charlette) Hershberger, Lancaster, OH., and Carol (Jason) Yoder, Abbeville, SC. She is also survived by her 23 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren and 4 siblings: Kenneth (Ada) Byler, Freeman (Barbara) Byler, Dan (Betty) Byler and Linda (Jake) Weaver.
Sara is preceded in death by her parents, brother, Bob Byler, and grandson, Morgan Hershberger.
The love of Jesus couldn't help but flow out of mom as she welcomed everyone, friends and strangers alike, into her home. She spoiled them with her cooking and genuinely cared about all they had to say. She loved to work in her garden and take care of her flowers. But even though she loved beauty she was always up for a good fishing trip! Canning season was something she looked forward to, especially because it meant spending time with her beloved daughters and grandchildren. Even as she aged she was very involved with her grandchildrens’ lives and knew about all of their programs and activities. She is deeply loved and has left a hole that cannot be replaced.
The family would like to extend their thanks to the local church family, friends, neighbors, hospice care and all who extended their help and sympathies.
The family will receive friends from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm and from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm on Thursday, February 29, 2024, at the North Terrace Church of Christ, 1420 Brandywine Blvd., Zanesville, OH., 43701. Services will be held on Friday, March 1, 2024, at the North Terrace Church of Christ at 10:00 am. Bope-Thomas Funeral Home in Somerset is entrusted with the arrangements.
Hershey, John L.
January 18, 1932 - February 12, 2024
John L. Hershey, age 92 of Lancaster, passed away on Monday, February 12, 2024 at the Abbeyville Nursing and Rehab Center. He was the husband of Helen Herr Hershey with whom he was happily married for over 70 years. Born in Paradise, he was the son of the late Clarence and Elnora Metzler Hershey.
John was a member of Grace Church at Willow Valley and a past member at Mount Pleasant Mennonite where he served as song leader. He loved his time working as a dairy and poultry farmer and working as the custodian at Lampeter Strasburg for 10 years after selling the farm.
He also loved cars, puzzles, traveling, going to auctions, listening to records, and singing hymns in a quartet.
Surviving besides his wife Helen are 4 children; Beverly Hershey of Lancaster, Karen, wife of Dale Yoder of McAlisterville, PA, Audrey, wife of Karl Hoffman of AZ, and Larry Hershey of Lancaster City, 8 grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren, and a sister; Lois Yoder of Belleville, PA. He was preceded in death by a son, John R. Hershey, and a sister, Verna Landis.
A funeral service will take place at Grace Church at Willow Valley, 300 Willow Valley Square, Lancaster, on Saturday, February 17th at 11 a.m. with a viewing time from 10 a.m. until the time of service. Interment will be held privately in the Paradise Mennonite Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in John's honor to the Grace Church at Willow Valley Missions Fund, 300 Willow Valley Square, Lancaster, PA 17602.
Hertzler, Susanna R.
April 8, 2005 - March 8, 2024
Susanna R. Hertzler, age 18 years and 11 months, of the Burke’s Garden area of Tazewell, VA passed away Friday, March 8, 2024. Born April 8, 2005, she was a daughter of Ruben Hertzler and Nancy J. Beachy Hertzler. Susanna was of the Christian faith and she attended Old Order Amish Church of Burke’s Garden. She was a school teacher in the Amish community and she enjoyed her school children greatly. She liked hiking, reading, singing and spending time with family and friends. She also enjoyed social interaction, going on trips and cooking special foods. Susanna loved her nephew and niece tremendously. She leaves behind many friends and family who will greatly miss her sparkling personality and the spice she added to life. Susanna passed away with her aunt, Linda J. Byler; cousins Lydia A. Byler and Ellen A. Byler Schrock; Ellen’s husband Orla J. Schrock and their infant daughter, Judi Rose Schrock and her friend Delila Schrock. She is also preceded in death by grandparents, Samuel Hertzler and Mary Beachy Hertzler; uncle, Ernest Beachy and aunt, Saloma Hertzler.
Left to cherish her memory are her parents, Ruben Hertzler and Nancy J. Beachy Hertzler; brothers, Jonathan, Steven, Samuel, Timothy, and Edwin Hertzler; sisters, Miriam and Ruth Ellen Hertzler; sister-in-law, Marianna Hertzler, married to Jonathan; nephew, Jeremiah Hertzler and niece, Carol Hertzler. Grandparents, John and Barbara Beachy, uncles, aunts, cousins and many 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. Nevin Schlabach, James Schlabach, Simeon Swarey and Clemens Swarey will serve as pallbearers. Interment will follow funeral services at Burke’s Garden Amish Cemetery in Burke’s Garden, VA.
High, Emma Martin
October 19, 1933 - January 11, 2024
Emma M. High, 90, of Ephrata, passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 11, 2024, at Fairmount Homes.
She was born in Ephrata to the late Samuel K. and Daisy (Getz) Martin and was the wife of the late Elvin H. High who passed away in 2008.
Emma was a member of the Groffdale Mennonite Church, Weaverland Conference.
She is survived by two sons, Eugene M., husband of Edna (Martin) High of Jeromesville, OH, Elvin H., Jr., husband of Loretta (Horst) High of Ephrata; three daughters, Elaine M. High of Ephrata, Erla M., wife of Elvin B. Martin of Newmanstown, Edna F., wife of Jerry L. Musser of Newmanstown; 22 grandchildren; 38 great-grandchildren; her twin sister Ella, wife of Adam Oberholtzer of East Earl, sister, Elizabeth Snader of Reinholds and a sister-in-law, Janice Martin of Lititz.
In addition to her husband and parents, she was preceded in death by two grandsons, Abram and Isaac Zimmerman; four brothers, Paul, Wayne, Eli and Ivan Martin; three sisters, Annie Martin, Edna Hoover and Mary Gerhart.
A viewing will be held on Monday, January 15, 2024, from 5 to 8 p.m., at the Farm Crest Chapel at Fairmount Homes, 1100 Farm Crest Dr., Ephrata. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, January 16, 2024, at 9 a.m., at the Chapel, with further services at 9:30 a.m., from the Groffdale Mennonite Church, 168 N. Groffdale Rd., Leola, with Bishop Curvin Zimmerman officiating. Interment will be held in the adjoining church cemetery.
Kindly omit flowers.
Arrangements by Stradling Funeral Homes, Inc., Akron/Ephrata.
Hochstetler, Joshua Mark
February 29, 2024 - March 3, 2024
Joshua Mark Hochstetler, three-day-old son of Eugene and Sara (Bontrager) Hochstetler, of Ligonier (district: 63-2), died at 6:55 pm on Sunday, March 3, [2024]] at Riley Children's Hospital, Indianapolis, from complications of a genetic disorder. He was born on February 29, [2024] in Indianapolis.
Survivors in addition to his parents are brother, Kayden Drew Hochstetler at home; grandparents, David and Velma Hochstetler of Ligonier, Devon and Amy Bontrager of Topeka; great-grandparents, Mary Ellen Hochstetler of Middlebury, Leo and Martha Bontrager of Topeka; and many uncles, aunts, and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his brother, Elijah Daniel Hochstetler; great-grandparents, John Henry Hochstetler, Daniel and Mary Hochstetler, William and Rosina Miller; and a cousin, Kendrew Miller.
Visitation will be after 1:00 pm on Tuesday, March 5 at the family residence, 67862 E. County Line Rd., Ligonier. Funeral services will be at 2:00 pm on Wednesday, March 6 also at the family residence. Services will be conducted by Bishop Freeman Nissley and the home ministers of the Old Order Amish Church. Burial will be in South Haven Cemetery, Millersburg.
Miller-Stewart Funeral Home, Middlebury, IN
Submitted by: Thelma Hoover Martin
Hochstetler, Larry Gene
March 30, 1948 - January 30, 2024
Larry Gene Hochstetler, age 75 of Nappanee, passed away at 6:30 a.m. Tuesday, January 30, 2024 at Signature Health Care in Bremen. He was born March 30, 1948 in Elkhart, IN to Edward H. and Sylvia (Yoder) Hochstetler. On September 30, 1970 he married Clara E. Borkholder. She preceded him in death on March 16, 2005. On November 10, 2006 he married Mary Alice Wickey.
Larry was a member of the Old Order Amish Church.
Surviving are his wife, Mary Alice Hochstetler, Nappanee; 1 daughter, Ada (Nathan) Hochstetler, Bourbon; 3 sons, Daniel (Delilah) Hochstetler, Nappanee, Norman (Elaine) Hochstetler, Nappanee, Edward (Kristina) Hochstetler, Nappanee; 18 grandchildren; 4 great-grandchildren; siblings, Frances (Mervin) Schwartz, Nappanee, Dennis (Renae) Hochstetler, TN, Allen (Sharon) Hochstetler, Bourbon, Phil (Katherine) Hochstetler, New Paris, Lavon (Friend Angel) Hochstetler, Peru, Kenneth (Jolene) Hochstetler, Nappanee, W. Scott (Rachel) Hochstetler, Nappanee, Dawn (Earl) Miller, New Paris, Theresa (Brian) Emmons, Goshen; brother-in-law, Ezra Miller, New Paris.
He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Clara Hochstetler; siblings, DuWayne Hochstetler, Wilma Borkholder, Louise Miller and Norman Hochstetler.
Visitation will be after 2 p.m., Wednesday, January 31, 2024 and all day Thursday, February 1st at Norman Hochstetler Residence (192 Plymouth Goshen Trail, Nappanee). Funeral service will begin at 9:30 a.m., Friday, February 2nd also at Norman Hochstetler Residence. Home Ministry of the Old Order Amish Church will officiate. Burial will follow in Borkholder Cemetery. Arrangements are with Thompson-Lengacher & Yoder Funeral Home, Nappanee.
Hochstetler, Mary Etta
July 20, 1949 - February 27, 2024
Aunt Mary Etta Hochstetler, age 74 of Nappanee, IN died at 6:26 am on February 27, 2024 at Signature Healthcare in Bremen, IN. Mary was born on July 20, 1949 to Andrew and Sovilla (Schmucker) Hochstetler. She was a member of the Old Order Amish Church.
Surviving are 3 brothers: Richard (Esther) Hochstetler of Farmington, NM, Lisle Hochstetler of Nappanee and Danny Lee Hochstetler of Nappanee; 6 sisters: Katie Elizabeth (Marvin) Slabaugh of Nappanee, Maude Burkholder of Bremen, Alma Slabaugh of Nappanee, Judy (Wilbur) Mast of Etna Green, Linda Schmucker of Nappanee and Sherry (Marlin) Miller of Nappanee; 2 sisters-in-law: Maryln Hochstetler of Walkerton and Laura Hochstetler of Nappanee; and a friend, Barb Miller of Nappanee.
Aunt Mary was preceded in death by her parents, Andrew and Sovilla Hochstetler; 4 brothers: Wyman, Devon, Monroe Jay, and Andrew Jr. Hochstetler; 3 brothers-in-law: Chris Slabaugh Sr, Oscar Burkholder and Harley Schmucker; and 2 sisters-in-law, Mary Hochstetler and Erma Hochstetler.
Visitation will be held after 2 pm on Wednesday, February 28, 2024 and all-day Thursday, February 29, 2024 at the Leon Bontrager Residence (111 2B Rd, Nappanee, IN 46550). A funeral service will start at 9:30 am on Friday, March 1, 2024, also at the Leon Bontrager Residence. The Home Ministry of the Old Order Amish Church will officiate and burial will take place in Weldy Cemetery.
Hochstetler, Rachel Hostetler
March 20, 1929 - January 5, 2024
Rachel Hochstetler, age 94, of Nappanee, passed away at 7:15 a.m., Friday, January 5, 2024 at her residence. She was born March 20, 1929 in Middlebury to Jerry and Emma (Eash) Hostetler. Rachel was a lifetime area resident and a member of the Old Order Amish Church. On January 18, 1951 she married Edward D. Hochstetler in Nappanee. He preceded her in death November 17, 2017.
She is survived by a daughter, Norma Jean (Ira A.) Bontreger, Etna Green, sons, Dale W. (Kathryn) Hochstetler, Nappanee and Glen R. (Kathryn) Hochstetler, Millersburg, daughters, Linda M. (Glen W.) Weaver, Shipshewana and Lorene K. (Tom) Marvel, Etna Green; 24 grandchildren; 88 great-grandchildren; siblings, Anna Ard, Texas, Susie (Wilbur) Hochstetler, Rome City, Lucy Fry, Syracuse, Emma (Ervin) Troyer, LaGrange, Martha (Don) Haats, Syracuse, and Amelia Fry, Shipshewana; and a sister-in-law, Deb Hochstetler, Syracuse.
She was preceded in death by her husband; great-grandson, Brandon Hochstetler; brothers, Levi, Henry, Jacob, Jerry JR, and Amos Hostetler; and sisters, Fannie Hostetler, Lizzie Ann Borkholder, and Esther Hochstetler.
Visitation will be after 2 p.m., Saturday, January 6, 2024 and all day Sunday, January 7th at Merle Bender Residence (30264 C.R. 52). Funeral services will begin at 9:30 a.m., Monday, January 8th also at the Merle Bender Residence. Home Ministry of the Old Order Amish Church will officiate. Burial will follow in Weldy Cemetery. Arrangements are with Thompson-Lengacher & Yoder Funeral Home, Nappanee.
Hochstetler, Robert L.
December 4, 1941 - February 29, 2024
Robert L. Hochstetler (Farmer Bob, the Ice Cream Man) Entered into eternal rest Thursday, February 29th, 2024, after a courageous battle with cancer.
Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Wednesday, March 6th at Alexander Funeral Home with Eugene Hershberger officiating. Burial will take place in Berlin Cemetery. Friends may call from 3 to 7 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home. Family suggests memorial contributions be made to the Berlin Fire Department.
Bob was born in Holmes County on December 4th, 1941, to Jonas and Helen Hochstetler. On December 6th, 2005, he married Margaret "Peg" Louise Shaw. They met in Doctor's Hospital, Massillon, Ohio when he had back surgery in 1985.
Complication set in, and on a return trip to the hospital. He came with a box of Hagy's chocolates for the nursing staff. From behind him someone asked, "Where's mine?" And so Peg entered his life. She would do him well all his days.
Bob was a 1960 graduate of Hiland High School and attended Prairie Bible institute in three Hills Alberta, Canada. He was a farmer his whole life and served as an EMT with the Berlin fire Department. He also served as a Berlin Township trustee. He was a faithful member of Martin's Creek Mennonite Church.
He leaves to mourn his passing, two sisters, Mary Ellen (Atlee) Gingerich and their son Kurt; and Martha (Douglas) Sommers and their sons: Scot (Corinna "Queenie") Sommers and Steven Sommers and his daughter, Dahlia; their daughter, Joni (Michael) Sommers Liefheit and their sons, Mason and Brayden. A sister-in-law, Lois Hochstetler (husband Ken deceased) and their son, Chad (Sara) Hochstetler with daughters, Kaitlin, Ashton and with son Andrew and their daughter Jennifer (Brian) Hochstetler Lukacelo and their daughters Nuriel Ruth and Gabriella Elizabeth and Abigail Grace. He's also survived by stepchildren, David (Heather) Shaw, their daughters Randi and Rylee; Kelli Shaw; Laura Shaw, daughters Heaven Lee and Kayla (Adam) Shaw Lamb, their sons Logan and Rory and daughters Mazie and Nova; Kristine (Jeff) Shaw their daughters Holly and Amanda and son Alex; Michelle (deceased) Shaw and her son Frank and daughter Jaime and her children Chloe and John Michael.
Bob was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Ken and a stepdaughter Michelle.
The family would like to thank neighbors and friends that helped them through this time, also Aultman Hospital, Walnut Hills Nursing Home, Crossroads Hospice, those giving home care, physical and occupational therapy.