John D. Swartzendruber

1931 - 2025

John D. Swartzendruber (Big John), 93, of Elkhart, died peacefully on the morning of March 25, 2025, at Greencroft Healthcare, Goshen.

He was born Sept. 29, 1931, in Hopedale Illinois to Fred E. and Ella (Augsburger) Swartzendruber. They preceded him in death, along with his wife of 67 years, Kathryn (Bontrager); three siblings, Esther (Dr. Melvin Glick), Dr Frederick (Dolce Bell) and Edith (J. Marvin Nafziger); and a grandson, Ronald Braden.

Surviving are four children, Karen Braden, Audrey (James) Almdale, John B (Barbara) and Shari Durkin, along with 10 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren.

John was a lifelong area farmer, owning and operating a dairy farm in Concord Township, where he also raised chickens. He had a gift for building and repairing all kinds of things, and could fix most anything. Up until a month prior to his death he could diagnose an engine problem and tell someone how to fix it, in great detail.

John volunteered in many ways. He was a member of College Mennonite Church in Goshen for over 70 years. He was a 25-year member of the Concord Fire Department, holding offices of Chaplain to Fire Chief, a position he held when the Palm Sunday tornadoes hit in 1965. He volunteered with Elkhart County Habitat for Humanity, Mennonite Disaster Service and Gideons International. He also served on the Elkhart County Farm Bureau Board for many years.

John earned his private pilot's license after his children were grown, and enjoyed taking friends and family for rides. He was a member of Wings for Witness flying club. After retirement he and Kathryn joined Sunnybreeze Christian Fellowship in Arcadia, Florida, spending their winters there. This provided a new set of neighbors who appreciated his repair skills. He also served on the board and as treasurer for the community.

John's faith guided his life. He mentored many young people and was a wonderful role model to his children and grandchildren. Sometimes, working on the farm with him was what a young person needed to figure out life. He did justice, loved mercy and walked humbly with God.

Friends may call Saturday, April 19, from 9 to 11 a.m. at College Mennonite Church, with the memorial service following at 11. There will be a private family burial at Frame Cemetery in Elkhart.

Memorials may be directed to College Mennonite Church or Mennonite Central Committee.

Yoder-Culp Funeral Home is assisting with arrangements.