Nafziger

Paul R. Nafziger, age 68, of Hudson, Michigan, and formerly of Archbold, Ohio, passed away unexpectedly in his home on Tuesday, January 31, 2012.

Paul was born in Wauseon, Ohio on July 25, 1943, the son of the late Raymond and the late Dora (Short) Nafziger. He and his wife Ella Bontrager, who survives, were married on July 27, 1968.

He worked in the engineering department at Sauder Woodworking in Archbold for almost 30 years, retiring in 2004. He attended the Zion Mennonite Church in Archbold.

In retirement he and Ella created a natural habitat to welcome wildlife and offer a place of quiet reflection at their home in Hudson. Paul loved to share a story. He took great joy in woodcarving and sharing ‘the story in the wood’ with others through volunteering at Sauder Village, donating carved items to benefit fundraisers, and teaching classes.

Surviving are his wife, Ella; two daughters, Ann Marie (Peter Stanley) Nafziger of Marfa, and Dorine (Jeremiah Coleman) Nafziger of Portland, Oregon; a son, Kent (Megan) Nafziger of Archbold; grandsons, Buckminster and Roman Coleman; sister, Anna Rose (Peter) Kiesow of Wauseon; sister-in-law, Donna Nafziger of Archbold; brother-in-law, Roy (Ruth) Bontrager of Logan, Ohio; brother-in-law, Andy (Theresa) Bontrager of Wilmot, Ohio; brother-in-law, Ron (Vicki DiLillo) Bontrager of Beach City, Ohio; sister-in-law, Mary Bontrager of Massillon, Ohio; and nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters, Alice and Ada Nafziger; and brother, Maurice Nafziger.

A celebration of Paul’s life was the afternoon of Monday, February 6 at Zion Mennonite Church, with Pastor Jeff Kauffman, Pastor Mona Sauder, and Pastor Jane Friesen, officiating.

The family requests that memorial contributions be given to Sunshine Children’s Home, Adriel, or Mennonite Central Committee.

Online condolences may be offered to the family at www.grisierfh.com.

Grisier Funeral Home in Archbold has been entrusted with arrangements.