(Drewa) Root in Minot, N.D., and they shared 52 years of happy matrimony. She preceded him in death on March 17, 2024. He worked at Bethel University for 35 years in the library and classroom. For 25 years he taught history as an associate professor and served as Director of the Bowen Library, staying on as a staff librarian until retiring at the rank emeritus librarian. He diligently did his job as a way of telling students, faculty and staff, "I love the college." Local worshipers also knew Clyde's heart, as he served as interim pastor for over two decades at numerous churches in northern Indiana and southwestern Michigan. Up to the very last days of his life, he encouraged parishioners to remain strong in the Lord with his simple testimony,"I love the church." Clyde is survived by three sons, Mark (Sara) Root, Jonathan (Susan) Root, Dr. David Root; four grandchildren, Katie (Jared) Gerndt, Madelynne Root, Melissa Root, Andrew Root; one greatgrandson, Elijah Gerndt; three brothers, Ralph (Ann) Root, Irwin Root, Thomas (Vertie) Root; one sister, Rita (Terry) Kreiser; one aunt, Jean Geist; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by four brothers, Arthur Root, Jr., William Root, Robert Root, Jonathan (Gloria) Root; and one sister, Anna (Harry) Reist. Lois Marie Schrock ’58, age 88, of Goshen, passed away Aug. 13, 2024, at her home in Hubbard Hill Estates. She was born June 26, 1936, in Wakarusa, to Kenneth and Sarah (Klotz) Weldy. On March 30, 1958, she married Herman Schrock, and he died June 15, 2017. Surviving are a son, Kent (Ann) Schrock, Goshen; daughter, Linda (Kent) Eby, Goshen; four grandchildren: Amy (James) Heldreth, Mentone; Matt Schrock, Graham, TX; James Schrock, Goshen; Everett Eby, Indianapolis; and 2 brothers, Walt (Caroline) Weldy, Wakarusa; and Robert (Susan) Weldy, Wakarusa. Preceding her in death are her parents and husband, Herman. Lois was a 1954 graduate of Wakarusa High School and 1958 graduate of Bethel College. She was a School Teacher at Harrison Elementary, homemaker and farmer’s wife. She enjoyed spending time with friends and family, traveling and reading. Lois was a member at Wakarusa Missionary Church. Rev. Donald Harry Severance ’57, age 92, passed away Jan. 19, 2025. He was born April 2, 1932, to the late Harry Arthur and Esther Marie (Krake) Severance near Imlay City, Mich. Don was a cherished husband, father, pastor and community leader. At the age of 15, he responded to a call to ministry, and went on to study at Bethel College (now University) in Mishawaka, Ind. There, he met the love of his life, Alice Sahmel, whom he married on August 31, 1951. Together they raised five children all of whom survive. Don and Alice ministered in several Missionary Churches (The United Missionary Church prior to 1969): Marlette, Springport, Elkton, Buckley (independent church), Kalamazoo, Taylor (the previous, all in Michigan), York PA, and back to Michigan in Belleville. Upon retirement, they moved back to Kalamazoo and Don served in interim pastoral positions. He also served for about 26 years as parliamentarian for the denomination. He and Alice gave over 50 years of service to the Missionary Church. Among many accomplishments, two stand out. For 14 years, Don and Alice took Faith Missionary Church in York from a congregation meeting in a hotel, through two building projects on prime land, placing the church in a great position for growth. And in “retirement,” he took his experience in helping build the York church and served almost as the construction supervisor for the new Missionary Hispanic church in Harford, Mich., Iglesia Missionera Betel de Hartford, shepherding it through the sticky rezoning commission meetings, all the way through the final build. Craig Weldy ’88, age 58, passed away Dec. 20, 2024, at home. Craig's life began on May 1, 1966, in Goshen, Ind. He was the beloved son of Larry and Sharon (Hartman) Weldy, who preceded him in death. An esteemed alumnus of Bethel College, his spirit for engagement shone through his active role in The Genesians, a traveling drama troupe, an experience that solidified his love for the performing arts and set a precedent for his future contributions to his community. He married Sherry Boatright in 1988. Their marriage was a testament to true love and partnership, fostering a family filled with laughter, support, and mutual respect through 36 beautiful years together. Craig was a dedicated professional, working tirelessly as a Senior Interface Analyst with Beacon Health System for over two decades. His commitment to his work was paralleled only by his passion for his family and his faith. Craig was an active member of Trinity Evangelical Free Church, serving in drama ministry, youth groups and as Chairman of the Worship Committee. He is survived by his devoted wife, Sherry, and their three children, Megan (Dustin) Hueni, Katelyn (Alonso) Delgado, both of South Bend, and Trenton "TJ" (Colleen) Weldy of Osceola. He was a proud grandfather to eight grandchildren. Craig also leaves behind his brother, Brian Weldy of Georgia. 23 SPRING 2025
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy ODMyNTU=