Lois Arline Deter

Lois Arline Deter, 89, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, at Greencroft Healthcare in Goshen, Indiana.

Lois was born on July 30, 1936, in Coleta, Illinois, to Ira S. Deter and Mary Ellen (Landis) Deter. She grew up in a loving home and dedicated her life to her faith, education, and family. Lois graduated from Goshen College in 1958 with a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education. While at Goshen, she traveled with the college choir.

A lifelong educator, Lois spent over 40 years shaping young minds as an elementary school teacher at Jordan, Wallace, and Lincoln Grade Schools in Sterling Illinois. Her passion for teaching was matched by her devotion to her faith; she was a lifetime member of the Mennonite Church attending Morrison “Red Brick” and Science Ridge Mennonite Churches. She participated actively in the local and conference church women’s group, serving as secretary and leading in projects to serve relief efforts. She led singing, played piano accompaniment, and sang in an octet. She hosted the church youth in her home creating lifelong bonds.

After retirement, Lois remained active in church and family events. She assisted at a preschool and faithfully served a local charity which provided clothes to those in need in the local community.

Lois bowled weekly while young and loved jigsaw puzzles and table games throughout her life. She actively engaged in dairy farming with her father.

Lois never married but poured her love into her community and her cherished family. She cared for her parents in their home until their deaths. Family and friends received many cards, letters, and gifts from her loving hands.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her sister, Lona Litwiller.

Lois is survived by her beloved nieces and nephews, who meant the world to her: Richard Litwiller (Cindy) of Sacramento, CA; Ken Litwiller (Laura) of Lewistown, PA; Christina Litwiller of Goshen, IN; and Brian Litwiller (Cyndi) of Hopedale, IL.

Lois will be laid to rest next to her parents at Science Ridge Mennonite Cemetery, Sterling, Illinois, on Thursday, July 16 at 1:00 p.m.

Visitation will take place Friday, September 11 from 9:30 a.m. until the 11:00 memorial service at Benton Mennonite Church near Goshen, Indiana. Another visitation will take place in Sterling, Illinois, in the following week.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Goshen College in honor of Lois's lifelong commitment to education.

Arrangements are being handled by Yoder-Culp Funeral Home, 1911 South Main Street, Goshen, Indiana.