Mary Ellen (Yoder) Bontrager, 91, died November 4, 2024, in her home, in Arlington KS. She was born July 29, 1933, in Hutchinson, KS, to Menno Jr and Elizabeth (Nisly) Yoder. Mary Ellen married Eldon E. Bontrager on May 5, 1955.

Mary Ellen was a homemaker and found fulfillment in caring for her family. Her careful attention to detail was seen in all that Mary Ellen did. Her food preparation, gardening, care of animals, but most of all her children, benefitted from her meticulous ways.

Mary Ellen was a strong supporter when daughter, Carolyn, bought the restaurant in Arlington, and rolled out thousands of pie crusts over the next 25 years. All the local granddaughters learned this skill under her careful instruction.

Mary Ellen is survived by: children, Carolyn Bontrager, Arlington, Myron (Ilene) Bontrager, Arlington, Phyllis (Gareth) Yoder, Timpson, TX, and Marilyn (Dan) Korver, Ladysmith, WI; daughter-in-law, Mamie Bontrager, Arlington; 27 grandchildren; 57 great-grandchildren; brothers, Emery (Faye) Yoder, Edwin (Clara) Yoder; sister Clara Mae (Melvin) Nisly; and sisters-in-law, Edna Yoder and Amy Yoder.

She was preceded in death by: her husband; her parents; children, Lynette Bontrager, LaVon Bontrager, Faith Bontrager, and Regina Bontrager; four stillborn great-grandchildren; and siblings, Katie Viola Yoder, Henry Yoder and Glenn Yoder.

Funeral service will be 10:00 a.m. Saturday, November 9, 2024, at Arlington Amish Mennonite Church, 15611 W. Arlington Rd, Arlington, KS. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Friends may call from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, November 8, 2024, with the family present at the church.

Memorials are suggested to Gentiva Hospice or the Capper Foundation, in care of Elliott Mortuary and Crematory, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.