Mary Louise Bontrager

Mary L. Bontrager, 89, of Goshen, died July 24, 2022, at Greencroft Healthcare.

She was born November 1, 1932, in Honeyville to Daniel E. and Magdalena Yoder.

On December 23, 1950, she married Alvin Bontrager in Topeka, and together they farmed for many years near Millersburg. Al died April 6, 2015.

Mary is survived by daughters Debra (Robert) Kauffman, Rebecca (Kenneth) Horst, Patricia (Dale) Shenk, all of Goshen; Joyce (Jon) Yoder, Salem Oregon; Ginny (Ray) Miller, Chambersburg Pennsylvania; son Thomas Bontrager, Bremen Indiana; thirteen grandchildren, eleven great-grandchildren and sister Lucille Blue of Goshen.

Along with her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by two brothers, John and Orva Yoder; six sisters: Catherine Miller, Ida Yoder, Maggie Yoder, Ruby Wyse, Elma Eichorn, Alta Yoder and a great granddaughter, Alice Rose Hanby.

Mary was a 1950 graduate of Topeka High School, and of Goshen College in 1973. She taught elementary school for 20 years at Millersburg and in the Westview School Corporation.  She was active in church activities at Maple Grove and Topeka Mennonite, and later at College Mennonite Church, where she served as a Stephen Minister.

Always curious, Mary was knowledgeable about birds, trees and wildflowers, and became a long-time volunteer for children’s groups at Merry Lea Environmental Learning Center. Mary loved to cook and hosted countless meals in her home for family, friends and strangers alike, most of which ended with her fine home-made pies. An avid gardener, she also nurtured long rows of vegetables and berries, as well as beautiful perennial flower gardens.

A memorial service will be held August 15, at 11:00 a.m. at College Mennonite Church. Visitation hours are 10:00 a.m. and following the service. Live stream will be available.

Yoder-Culp Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Memorial gifts in Mary’s honor may be directed to Merry Lea or the Bontrager Music Together Endowment at Goshen College.