Melvin E. Hershberger 87, of Gambier, passed away on Wednesday, October 25, 2023 at the home of his son Marvin Hershberger of Baltic.
He was born on February 23, 1936 in Goshen, IN to the late Ezra and Katie (Yoder) Hershberger. On March 17, 1955 he married Orpha D. Yoder who preceded him in death on April 21, 2013.
After marriage he worked in a trailer factory in Shipshewana, IN and in 1968 was ordained to the ministry. In 1971 he moved his family to Martinsburg, OH where he made a living as a farmer, and owner of a gas station and thriving bakery. He enjoyed driving truck for Yoder’s Cider Barn. In his later years he provided transportation for the Amish community where he was affectionately known as “Doctor Mel”. Through it all he was known for his energetic sermons and his passion to reach souls for Christ; oh, and we can’t forget his love for fishing!
He is survived by his four sons, Marion (Verna) Hershberger of Holmesville, OH, Marvin (Erma) Hershberger of Baltic, OH, Wayne Hershberger of Gambier, OH and Steve (Arletta) Hershberger of Linn, MO; 17 grandchildren; 32 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great-grandchild.
In addition to his parents and his loving wife Orpha, he was preceded in death by his daughter, Linda Hershberger; four grandchildren, Keith Hershberger, Merle Hershberger, Trenton Hershberger and Shelby Hershberger; four brothers, Vern (Rachel), Alvin (Mary), Leroy (Wilma) and Roman (Katie); and two sisters, Fannie Mae (Noah) Schrock and Pauline Hershberger. He was the last surviving sibling.
Funeral services will be held at Melita Fellowship, 9956 Camp Ohio Road, Utica, on Saturday, October 28, at 10:00 AM with Pastor Alan Byler officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Friends may call at Melita Fellowship from 2-4 and 6-8 PM on Friday.
Miller Funeral Care – Walnut Creek, OH 330-893-2273.
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