Walter Gingerich

WALTER H. GINGERICH, 94, of Arthur, Illinois, passed away, early Sunday morning, March 11, 2018 at the Arthur Home.

The funeral service will be held at 10:00 A.M. on Friday, March 16, 2018, at the North Vine Mennonite Church, 312 N. Vine Street in Arthur, Illinois. Rev. Brian Petersheim will officiate. Burial will follow in the Arthur Cemetery.  Visitation will be held on Thursday, March 15, 2018 from 2:00 PM until 8:00 PM at the North Vine Mennonite Church. The Edwards Funeral Home is assisting with arrangements.

Walter was born September 13, 1923 in Amboy, Indiana to Albert and Salome (Troyer) Gingerich.  On October 5, 1944 he married Martha Plank at her parent’s farm near Arthur, Illinois.  Walter was a farmer who loved to work and provide for his family.  His dry wit, quiet manner and strong work ethic touched the lives of others as he strove each day to be a faithful servant.  He and Martha owned and operated a family business, Arthur Meat Packing, Inc., for approximately 15 years.  Walter grew up with horses and they remained as a love and hobby throughout his life.  Walter was a member of North Vine Mennonite Church, enjoyed serving on the Mennonite Relief Sale committees, school board for Arthur Mennonite School and was an active member in the Gideon Society.

Survivors include his wife Martha; sister, Martha Plank and her husband Henry; daughter, Ada Gingerich; 4 sons; Rodger Gingerich and wife Carolyn, Paul Gingerich and wife Neowyn, Mark Gingerich and wife Anita, Galen Gingerich and wife Melody; 13 grandchildren; Shana, Jason, Jeremy, Jessica, Maggie, Andrew, Erin, Jared, Chelsey, Cody, Cassie, Cade and Cami; 15 great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Albert and Salome, his son Floyd and his 3 brothers John, Joe and Albert.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be given to The Gideon Society or the Arthur Mennonite Relief Sale in care of the Edwards Funeral Home, 221 East Main St., Arcola, IL 61910.