Elizabeth "Betty" Christner

Elizabeth “Betty” Christner, 90, of Elkhart, died Tuesday afternoon, February 2, 2010, at Elkhart Rehabilitation Center. She was born in LaGrange County on February 8, 1919, to the late James and Sarah (Spreuer) Powell.  She married Rufus Christner on May 25, 1941.  He preceded her in death on June 7, 1993. A longtime resident of the area, Mrs. Christner taught elementary school in the Scott, Concord and Goshen school systems for many years.  She was very active at First United Methodist Church, where she sang in the choir, for more than 50 years. A graduate of Manchester College, she was a member of the Retired Teachers’ Association, and Elkhart County Campers’ Club.  She enjoyed spending time with her family, knitting, traveling, camping and teaching. She is survived by daughter-in-law, Rebecca Christner of Goshen; granddaughter, Sarah Christner of Goshen; sister, Katherine Hostetler of Shipshewana; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by a son, Keith Christner on February 24, 2006, and numerous sisters and brothers. Friends may call 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m., Thursday, February 4, at the funeral home. A 10:00 a.m., Friday, February 5, 2010, funeral service will be conducted at Yoder-Culp Funeral Home.  Pastoral Assistant Pam Kling of First United Methodist Church, Goshen will officiate. Burial will follow in Violett Cemetery, Goshen. Memorial contributions may be given to the Alzheimer’s Association.