Esther M. Schmucker

Esther M. Schmucker, 97, of Goshen, passed away into the loving arms of her Savior and Lord, Wednesday, October 21, 2015 at Greencroft Healthcare where she had been since May. She was born December 1, 1917 in Shipshewana to Jerry and Lizzie (Mishler) Troyer. On June 5, 1943 she married Tobe Schmucker in Goshen. He died Sept. 17, 1986. Mrs. Schmucker is survived by five sons, Galen (Joyce) Schmucker of New Haven, Ron Schmucker of South Bend, Greg (Kathy) Schmucker of Shelbyville, Phil (Elaine) Schmucker of South Bend and Jeff (Raye) Schmucker of Charlotte North Carolina; eight grandchildren; six great-grandchildren and a sister, Maxine Derstine of Lansdale, Pennsylvania. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, a son, Daryl Schmucker; two brothers, Francis and Cornelius Troyer, and four sisters, Dorothy Hershberger, Genevieve Northage, Inez Hostetler and Rachael Klawitter. A homemaker, Mrs. Schmucker received a two year teaching degree from Goshen College and taught for several years. In 1954, along with her husband, Tobe, they founded Hope Rescue Mission in South Bend, now known as Hope Ministries. She also worked as a kitchen coordinator for several years at Hope Ministries and was involved in their women's auxiliary. Her hobbies included playing games, traveling, reading and she always cherished visits from her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. As the matriarch of her family, she was loving, God fearing, supportive without judgment and just an all around beautiful soul. Friends may call on Saturday, October 24, 2015, from 10 to 12 at Yoder-Culp Funeral Home. A memorial service will be conducted Saturday, October 24, 2015, at 3 p.m. at Kern Road Mennonite Church where she was a member. A private graveside service will be held at Prairie Street Cemetery, Elkhart. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hope Ministries.