Evelyn Fay Ediger

Evelyn Fay (Janzen) Ediger, 91, of Topeka, Kansas, passed away peacefully in her sleep on Monday, December 29, 2025.

Evelyn was born on June 28, 1934, in Reedley, California, to Cornelius and Martha Janzen. She was the older sister of Vera Adell Heidebrecht.

She was baptized at the age of 11 at the Mennonite Brethren Church in Dinuba, California. Evelyn attended Immanuel Academy High School and graduated from Tabor College in 1956 with a degree in English.

While at Tabor, Evelyn met Robert D. Ediger of Henderson, Nebraska. They were married in 1959 and soon settled in Topeka, Kansas, where they made their home and lived the remainder of their lives.

Upon moving to Topeka, Evelyn and Robert joined the Mennonite Brethren Church and became deeply involved in its life and ministry, sharing their musical, teaching, hospitality, and leadership gifts. The church community provided lifelong friendships, and Evelyn took special joy in welcoming newcomers and helping them feel at home.

Evelyn and Robert were blessed with three children and cherished many happy years with their grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Evelyn supported Robert in his career as a home builder and also worked for many years in secretarial and bookkeeping roles. Some of her most meaningful work was serving others through Youth for Christ and Everywoman’s Resource Center.

Evelyn was a talented pianist and artist, an avid reader, and enjoyed many travel adventures with Robert throughout their life together. She will be remembered for listening well, for her faithfulness as a friend, and for the perseverance that marked her life.

Evelyn is survived by her children: Mark (Beth) Ediger, Joan (Ediger) Felling, and Daniel Ediger; seven grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Ediger; her parents, Cornelius and Martha Janzen; her sister, Vera Heidebrecht; and her son-in-law, David Felling.

“And we know that all that happens to us is working for our good if we love God and are fitting into his plans.” — Romans 8:28

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Elara Caring at 3745 SW Wanamaker Rd, Suite A, Topeka, KS 66610, or to the Mennonite Central Committee (mcc.org).

A Memorial Service to honor her life will take place at 11:00am Saturday January 10, 2026 at Cornerstone Community Church 7620 SW 21st St, Topeka, KS 66615. A private inurnment will take place at a later date at Westlawn Memorial Gardens.

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