Velda A. Hershberger

Velda Arlene Hershberger, age 88, of Goshen, Indiana, passed away peacefully at Elkhart General Hospital.

Born on October 24, 1937, in Middlebury, Indiana, Velda was the beloved daughter of Allen and Amanda (Miller) Graber. She lived a life deeply rooted in faith, family, and service, leaving a lasting impression on all who had the blessing of knowing her.

On August 18, 1957, Velda married the love of her life, Freeman Hershberger, at Clinton Brick Mennonite Church. Together, they built a life grounded in devotion, kindness, and strong community ties. Their marriage was a beautiful partnership, and they shared many joyful adventures, including traveling to all 50 states side by side.

Velda was a gifted and dedicated cook, sharing her talents at Goshen High School and Goshen College. She was known not only for the meals she prepared but for the love she poured into them. Her kitchen was a place of comfort, welcome, and care, reflecting her servant’s heart and her joy in caring for others.

A faithful member of North Goshen Mennonite Church, Velda found deep joy and purpose in her church family. She also treasured her winters in Sarasota, Florida, where she enjoyed sunshine, friendship, and fellowship. In her quieter moments, she delighted in baking, crocheting, and playing card games with her grandchildren—moments that became cherished memories for all.

Velda is lovingly remembered by her children, Bonnie (Kerry) Cripe of Goshen, Indiana, and Ronald (Karen) Hershberger of Sweetser, Indiana. She was a devoted grandmother to Aaron (Megan) Cripe, Mandy (Jason) DeMien, Matthew (Elaina) Hershberger, and Tara (Josh) O’Connell, and a proud great-grandmother to Tanner DeMien, Halle (Luke) Miller, Ella Cripe, Bo DeMien, and Emerson Cripe. Her family was her greatest joy, and she treasured every moment spent with them.

She is also survived by her siblings: Devon (Barb) Graber of Constantine, Michigan; Nelson Graber of Portage, Michigan; and Idella (Ruben) Chupp of Goshen, Indiana.

Velda was preceded in death by her parents, Allen and Amanda (Miller) Graber, and her sister-in-law, Jan Graber.

Velda will be remembered for her gentle spirit, steadfast faith, and the quiet, faithful way she loved and served others. Her legacy of kindness, hospitality, and devotion will continue to live on in the hearts and lives of all who knew her.

Visitation will be Sunday, April 12, 2026 from 4 to 7 p.m. at Yoder-Culp Funeral Home. There will also be an hour of visitation on Monday, April 13, 2026 from 9 to 10 a.m. at the funeral home prior to the 10 a.m. burial at Violett Cemetery, Goshen.

A celebration of life will follow at 11 a.m. at North Goshen Mennonite Church. Pastors Ruben Chupp, Becky Helmuth and Izaete Nafziger will officiate.

Memorial contributions may be given in her honor to North Goshen Mennonite Church .