Milton L. Cender

Milton Lavern Cender, passed away March 21, 2026 in Goshen, IN at the age of 95 years and 11 months. Milton was born in Dewey, IL on May 1, 1930, the second child of nine to Emery and Mattie Cender. Milton is survived by his children Karl (Kathe Streeter) and Greta Cender-Poplett (James Poplett), six grandchildren Emily Cender (Matt Burgess), Alicia Poplett, Eric Cender, Katrina Poplett, Mark Streeter, Eric Streeter and one great grandchild Eloise Burgess. Milton is also survived by his siblings Fern Martin, Wilda Otto, Vietta Nofziger, Marlene Kaufman and Mary Jo Oswald.

His faith in Christ was modeled throughout his life by his care and willingness to help others. He grew up as a member of East Bend Mennonite Church, Fisher, IL and in retirement was a member of College Mennonite Church in Goshen, IN.

Milton grew up working on the farm. He had a life changing experience serving in PAX (Alternative Service) in Germany and Austria from 1953-1955. Upon returning, he began working at Cender Gas Company in Gibson City, IL, eventually becoming the owner. Joy was added to Milton’s life when he married Ruth Wismer on August 18, 1957. Together they had two children, living in Gibson City for 50 years as active members of their community. Upon retiring in 2007 Milton and Ruth moved to Goshen where he volunteered at the Mennonite Historical Society and enjoyed working on his antique cars. He was an avid reader, enjoying church history and family genealogy.

At age 89, Milton took up bicycling with his three-wheeled E-bike. He often rode on the Pumpkin Vine Trail and frequently cycled 22 miles a day. He biked over 12,000 miles in the past six years. Milton loved being out on his bike in the countryside and surrounded by nature; he lived life to the fullest. He was known for his quiet, jovial nature and sense of humor.

Milton was preceded in death by his wife, Ruth, parents, brothers Mahlon, Eldon and Lowell, and his daughter-in-law, Wilma Cender.

A memorial service will be held at College Mennonite Church, Goshen, IN on April 17, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. friends and family are welcome to gather one hour prior to the service. Memorial donations can be made in Milton’s memory to College Mennonite Church or the Mennonite Historical Society.