Shipshewana, IN - Dean O. Christner, 86, of Shipshewana, passed away at 1:37 p.m., on Saturday, Feb. 28, at Goshen Hospital, with his family by his side.

He was born on Jan. 2, 1940, in LaGrange County, to Olen and Polly (Miller) Christner.

On Oct. 11, 1962, in LaGrange, he married Iva B. Yoder. Iva died on Aug. 7, 2024.

Surviving are two daughters, Julie Ludwig, Juanita (Rob) Yoder, both of Shipshewana; two sons, Jerry (Amber Lock) Christner of Shipshewana, Jay (Crystal) Christner of Middlebury; nine grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; brother, Olen (Inez) Christner Jr. of Shipshewana; two sisters-in-law, Gertie Christner of Shipshewana, Nancy Christner of Middlebury.

He was preceded in death by his wife; parents; two brothers, Wayne and Orvil Christner; sister, Marlene Wagler.

Dean was a well-known dairy farmer in LaGrange County. Through his working career he also hauled propane, liquid manure, and most recently was an Amish taxi driver.

His love for sports was displayed through many rounds of golf and being a huge supporter of the Westview and IU basketball programs.

In his downtime, he enjoyed cutting wood and was involved with the pony racing association with his son, Jay.

His family will miss him and the amazing stories he shared with them.

Visitation will be from 2:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, March 4, at Emma Church, 1900 S. 600 W., Topeka.

There will also be one hour of visitation prior to the 10:00 a.m. funeral service on Thursday, March 5, also at the church.

Services will be conducted by Pastor Barry St. Clair.

Burial will be in Maple Grove Cemetery, Topeka.

Online condolences may be offered at millerstewartfuneralhome.com.