Sara Ellen Vongunten

Sara Ellen Yoder VonGunten died peacefully in her home on June 4, 2021, 11 days after her diagnosis of pancreatic cancer. She is predeceased by her first husband, Kenneth VonGunten, her parents, Lillian and Noble Yoder, and her brother Stephen Douglas Yoder. She is survived by her husband Evan J Miller, daughter Amy Clemens (Kent), sons Douglas (Jolene) and Peter (Melissa Longley), step-son Benjamin Miller (Marine Gassier), step-daughter Leena Miller Cressman (Scott), six grandchildren (Connor, Olivia, Jack, Garrett, Molly, and Shane) and three step-grandchildren (Milo, Juniper, Tessa), as well as her Kenyan “grandson” Victor Kiprop Kiprotich.

Sara was born in Goshen, Indiana, on April 5, 1943, and graduated from Goshen High School in 1961. She graduated from Bluffton (Ohio) College in 1965 and holds a Master’s Degree in education from Indiana University. Sara lived in Pandora, Ohio, following college and then settled in Middlebury, Indiana, to raise her family.

Sara married Ken VonGunten on June 19,1965, and was widowed on September 1, 2002. Following Ken’s death, Sara lived in Jefferson Township. She moved to Goshen after marrying Evan J. MIller on March 26, 2011.

Sara was baptized in the Mennonite Church and was an active member at Pleasant Oaks Mennonite Church and later at Eighth Street Mennonite Church.

Sara taught elementary school at several school systems, concluding her career in 2005 after over 20 years in the Middlebury Community Schools. She spent her children’s early years as a stay-at-home mom. She also taught piano and was a church pianist.

Sara was very involved with her children and grandchildren, making a point to attend their activities, and lovingly inquire about their lives at weekly family gatherings. She was beloved by her in-laws.

Sara traveled extensively with Evan, and with her WITT (Women in Transition Together) group. She had a passion for education and language, and especially enjoyed teaching English as a second language. She was a devoted follower of national politics, motivated by a desire for justice and peacemaking. She studied spiritual companioning and was a great listener. Her expansive love provided caring for many people in meaningful ways. She read extensively, and was a spiritual seeker, exploring Celtic spirituality, Christian mysticism and Buddhist teachings.

Yoder Culp Funeral Home is handling arrangements. There will be a private family memorial service, and an outdoor, covid-safe open house on June 20, 2021, from 1:00 - 4:00 pm, at Walnut Hill Mennonite Church, 909 North 6th St., Goshen, Indiana. In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial gift to Ryan’s Place for grieving children and families, or Pathways Retreat.