Alta Mellinger

Alta Mellinger, 93, of Goshen passed away Wednesday, January 22, 2025 at Greencroft Healthcare.

She was born May 2, 1931 in Morton, Illinois to John and Alma (Yoder) Roth. They preceded her in death.

On September 29, 1951 in Morton, Illinois, she married the love of her life Erwin Mellinger, whom she met at Goshen College.

Erwin survives along with three children, Gina Mellinger Alicea, Geoffery Mellinger and Gregory Mellinger; three grandchildren, Nick, Chris and James; and three-great grandchildren, Rory, Scarlett and Sloan.

Alta learned determination from her father, John who had the undeterred vision to start the Peoria Relief Sale to raise money for Mennonite Central Committee. Alta’s vision was to create a 10,000 Villages retail shop in Glen Ellyn, Illinois to also benefit the work of M.C.C., which she did and managed for many years.

She had a great love for her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. From the beginning, singing in the Goshen College choir together, she and Erwin, developed a love of music that has lasted a life-time, enjoying many concerts together.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, February 1, 2025 at 2 p.m. at Yoder-Culp Funeral Home, Goshen.

Burial will take place at Science Ridge Mennonite Cemetery, Sterling, Illinois at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be directed to Mennonite Central Committee; https://mcc.org/ .