Nelson E. Yoder

Nelson E Yoder, 74, of Middlebury, passed away peacefully at his home at 2:50 pm on December, 16 2025 following a brief battle with cancer. Nelson was born on April 5, 1951, in Pryor, OK to Eli and Lydia "Lorene" (Stutzman) Yoder. He grew up on a farm, where he developed a love for the outdoors and animals. At the age of 16, he moved with his family to Indiana. On October 26, 1985, in Middlebury, IN, he married Verda (Hershberger). They celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary this year! Survivors in addition to his wife are daughters; Elissa (Shonn) Conner of Bullard, TX, Andrea (Tony) Lower of Shipshewana, Rachel (Aaron) Eash of Middlebury; four grandchildren, Hayden, Jacob and Braxton Lower, and Adaline Eash; two brothers, Harry (Barb) Yoder of Middlebury, Harvey (Arlene) Yoder of Nampa, Idaho. He was preceded in death by his parents; brother Daniel Yoder; sister Mary Yoder; and infant brother Alva Yoder.

In his younger years, Nelson was part of both a horse racing team, and a bowling league and he excelled in both. While his daughters were young, he took his family on many vacations and camping trips. Nelson accepted Jesus as his Savior at an early age and was a longtime member of Griner Church, where he attended with his wife. He was a first baseman for the church softball team. Nelson loved spending time with his family and friends, and attending many of his grandson's basketball games. He was a hard worker who rarely missed a day of work at Jayco, where he was employed for 34 years before retiring. Later, he drove for Rise and Roll Bakery, then became an Amish taxi driver.

Nelson was an avid antique collector and bird watcher. He enjoyed watching baseball, football and NASCAR. Nelson enjoyed paintings of nature, and going to classic car shows. He had an analytical mind and was able to build or fix anything. Nelson will be remembered for his gentle spirit, and the constancy of his love and kindness. With his dry sense of humor, Nelson made his family laugh often. His presence was a gift. He was known and loved by many and will be missed.

Memorials may directed to Griner Church or the Center for Hospice Care in Elkhart.

The visitation will be at Griner Church in Middlebury from 2:00 - 4:00 pm and 5:00 - 7:00 pm on Friday, December 19. There will be one hour of visitation prior to the 10:00 am celebration of life service on Saturday, December 20, also at the church. Services will be lived streamed on Griner Church's Facebook and YouTube. Services will be conducted by Pastor Dan Bontrager and Robert Riegsecker. Burial will be at Griner Cemetery. Online condolences may be offered at millerstewartfuneralhome.com.