John Harley Kantner

John Harley Kantner, 87, of Goshen was born May 30, 1931, to his parents Albert and Martha (Hieber) Kantner in Middlebury.  He entered his Heavenly home on Saturday, April 13, 2019.

John was a graduate of Bristol High School. He was a Korean War Veteran serving as an Airman II in the US Navy from 1951 to 1955.  On August 16, 1953, he married Verna Lou Ravens of Pretty Prairie, Kansas.  After his years of service, they settled in Bristol in 1955, then Goshen in 1960.

He retired from NIBCO Inc. of Elkhart after 39 years.  He was a member of the Bristol and St. Mark’s United Methodist churches, respectively, serving and ministering in many capacities. He also served in the Goshen Sunrisers Kiwanis Club.

John enjoyed hunting, fishing, serving others, and working with his hands in woodworking, stones, and gardening. Above all, he was a giver, highly creative, and loved his family.  His quick-witted sense of humor will be missed.

Surviving, along with the love of his life, Verna, of 65 years, are three daughters:  Margaret “Peg” and Jack Holwerda of Rockford, Michigan; Vanja and Tim Haarer of Goshen; and Julia and Ron Sherck II of Greenville, Ohio. Also surviving are 14 grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren, and 2 unborn great grandchildren.  Brothers Forrest of Mentone, and Fred of Granger, also survive, along with nieces and nephews.

John was preceded in death by his parents, brother Ray, and infant brother Kay.

Visitation will be Wednesday, April 17, 2019 from 4 to 8 p.m. at Yoder-Culp Funeral Home, 1911 S. Main St., Goshen.

A Celebration of Life Service will begin at the funeral home Thursday, April 18, 2019 at 10 a.m. after visitation from 9 to10 a.m.  After a military salute and graveside service, interment will be in Oak Ridge Cemetery, Bristol.

Memorials may be given to:  Goshen Home Care and Hospice, 200 High Park Ave., Goshen, IN  46526 or Goshen VFW Post 985, 1201 W. Pike, Goshen, IN  46526.