Syracuse, Indiana - William E. "Bill" Yoder, age 90 of Syracuse, passed from his earthly life into the presence of his Lord and Savior on Wednesday afternoon, April 29, at his residence. Though his body was weak, his mind and heart stayed strong.

Bill was born on Feb. 23, 1936 in Reno County, Kansas to William D. and Susie (Yoder) Yoder.

Bill was raised in Kansas and his family then moved to the Topeka area. He has lived locally for 70 plus years.

On Feb. 14, 1960, Bill married Lora Schwartz at North Main Street Mennonite Church in Nappanee. Together they made their life together in the Goshen area.

Bill worked various jobs as a carpenter. He spent time at Star Craft, Quality Buildings and Mica Shop, all in Goshen and most recently worked as a driver for Cutting Edge Machine and Tool in New Paris.

Bill devoted his life to Christ and served the church throughout his life.

He became a pastor at Salem Mennonite Church in 1975, a bishop in 1977, and then served the church for over 31 years before retiring in 2006. Bill was a quiet man of deep faith who leaves behind a rich legacy of strength and integrity for his loved ones. His life was marked by hard work, an unwavering commitment to God and service to others.

He could always be counted on to give an encouraging word and was loved by many. He was a kind, loving husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather.

Bill is survived by his wife of over 66 years, Lora Yoder of Syracuse; 2 children, Lavon (Mary) Yoder of New Paris, and Janice (Joe) Smith of Kendallville; 7 grandchildren, Bruce (Molly) Yoder of Syracuse, Mark (Lindsey) Yoder of Syracuse, Marsha (Kurtis) Cable of Milford, Jared (Ashley) Yoder of New Paris, Austin (Kendra) Ryman of Hampstead, New Hampshire, Shelby (Nathanael) Collett of Laotto, and Kaylee Ryman of Kendallville; 13 great-grandchildren; and 1 brother, David (Ida Mae) Yoder of Middlebury.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents; 10 brothers; and 10 sisters.

Visitation will be held from 4-7 p.m. on Sunday, May 3, at the Salem Mennonite Fellowship Hall, 23984 Co Rd 46, New Paris, IN 46553.

There will be visitation again on Monday morning from 9-10 a.m. with a funeral service beginning at 10 a.m. at Salem Mennonite Church.

Home Ministries of the Salem Mennonite Church will officiate; and burial will follow in Salem Mennonite Church Cemetery.

Memorial contributions in Bill's name can be given to Christian Witness Missions to help with work in Haiti.