Justin Yoder

Justin Ross Yoder, 37, loving husband, son, brother, uncle, and friend, died unexpectedly on Sunday, September 15th, at Parkview Regional Medical Center following a tragic car accident. His loss has left his family and friends heartbroken.
Born on November 9, 1986, in Goshen to Myron R. and Sheila (Stopher) Yoder, Justin came into the world with Spina Bifida, a condition that shaped his life's journey. His health challenges required frequent visits to area hospitals, and he used a wheelchair for mobility. Despite these challenges, Justin lived a life rich in love and joy.
Justin graduated from Bethany Christian High School in 2005 and later attended Goshen College, where he studied American Sign Language. He found his calling as a sign language interpreter, a career that allowed him to work with others in a deeply meaningful way.
One of the greatest joys of Justin's life was marrying his wife, Stephanie (Freed), of Quakertown PA, on October 15, 2011. Over their 13 years together, they created countless memories traveling, fishing, visiting family in Pennsylvania, and sharing their home with two beloved dogs and two "tolerable" cats. Steph was by Justin's side through all of life's ups and downs, including his hospital stays, offering constant love and support.
Justin was a cherished member of an extended family, who he loved deeply. Family gatherings were a highlight of his life, and despite the challenges of inaccessible environments, he never missed his nieces' and nephews' soccer games or other family events. A great joy was being Uncle Justin to his 6 nephews and 2 nieces; Lewis, Elliot, and Ava Yoder, Henry and Leo Freed, Rowan, Ashton and Summer Freed. He is survived by many loving family members, including his extraordinary older brother Seth (Sarah) Yoder, and Great Uncle Larry and Great Aunt Jan Yoder. He was preceded in death by his grandparents Ralph and Pauline Yoder Kauffman (step-grandfather Leroy Kauffman), Wayne and Ruby Stopher and Uncle Tim Stopher and Aunt Yvonne Stopher.
An unexpected highlight in Justin's life was his involvement in Soap Box Derby racing. Thanks to the support of his church and family, Justin became the first person with a disability to compete in the All-American Soap Box Derby. His story of determination and triumph was later captured in the Disney Channel movie, Miracle in Lane 2, released in 2000.
As an active member of College Mennonite Church, Justin demonstrated his love for God by assisting with children and youth ministries. He warmly welcomed everyone to find their place in God's family, embodying the spirit of inclusivity and faith.
Justin's life was a testament to resilience, joy, and the power of community. Though his journey was not without challenges, his legacy of love and perseverance will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know him.
Justin's life will be celebrated with a time of visitation Friday, September 27, 2:00 – 5:00 and 6:00 – 8:00 and again Saturday Sept 28, at 9:30 followed by a 10:30 funeral, all taking place at College Mennonite Church. The service will be streamed live on the church's website; www.collegemennonite.org; live-stream link https://boxcast.tv/channel/n12gpk18euckrb3gcgs4.
Following the services at College Mennonite Church, cremation will take place at Yoder-Culp Crematory, and private services will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be given to Turnstone Center for Adults and Children with Disabilities, 3320 N. Clinton St., Fort Wayne, IN 46805; https://turnstone.org/ and Anabaptist Disabilities Network, 3145 Benham Avenue, Suite 5, Elkhart, IN 46517-1970;https://www.anabaptistdisabilitiesnetwork.org/.