David Holdeman

1939 - 2024

David Holdeman, 84, Elkhart, died 10:54 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 8, 2024, at his home.

He was born Aug. 23, 1939, in Lakeville, to Clayton and Florence (Klein) Holdeman. He married Benita Shelton and she died in 2006.

Surviving are a daughter, Teresa (Danny) Ragsdale, White Pigeon, Michigan; grandchildren, Misty (Baretta) Duty and Rheanna (Gabe) Ragsdale; foster family, Laura Bartley, Bear Lake, Michigan, and Kristopher (Shonda) Stowe and Grayson, Goshen; great-grandchildren, Shiane, Oliver, Grayson, Lincoln and Preston; great-great-grandson, James; and a sister, Violet Yaw.

Preceding him in death are his parents, wife Benita, granddaughter Raven Duty, and siblings Juanita Huitema, Stella Paff, Vera Holdeman and Nedra Holdeman.

David was a farmer while he grew up and worked at trailer factories. He was owner/operator of Holdeman Excavation Co. David was a member of Whole Life Christian Church, Sturgis, Michigan. He was known as the "amen man" in the corner, a great man of God and a true prayer warrior. David and Benita had over 55 foster children over the years. He had a heart for children and loved hearing their laughter. David loved hunting, fishing, playing cards and games. He enjoyed snow plowing during the winters in retirement.

Family and friends may gather from 1 to 3 p.m., prior to a celebration of life service at 3 p.m. on Friday, March 22, all at Rieth Rohrer Ehret Funeral Home, 311 S. Main St., Goshen. Pastor Chuck Vizthum will officiate. Burial will be at Rusk Cemetery, Flora, Illinois, at a later date.

Online condolences may be sent at www.rrefh.com.