Taylor University Pillars at Taylor University

TUFW Alumni Publications Publications for TUFW and Predecessors

Spring 2013 The orF t Wayne Vine Fort Wayne Alumni Center Heritage Association

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Recommended Citation Fort Wayne Alumni Center Heritage Association, "The orF t Wayne Vine" (2013). TUFW Alumni Publications. 16. https://pillars.taylor.edu/tufw-alumni-publications/16

This Book is brought to you for free and open access by the Publications for TUFW and Predecessors at Pillars at Taylor University. It has been accepted for inclusion in TUFW Alumni Publications by an authorized administrator of Pillars at Taylor University. For more information, please contact [email protected]. 008 Spring 2013 CELEBRATE CONNECT CARE opefully spring has sprung in your area of the country or the world. It seemed like winter went on and on this year. Fort Wayne did not Hreceive much snow, but we had many cloudy, cold days—my least favorite. Despite the long winter, made more difficult by the loss of our dear friends Cyril Eicher g32 and Violet (Egly) Ringenberg g45, I am thankful for the increased FW Vine is published two times opportunities I had to visit with Fort Wayne campus per year for Fort Wayne Campus alumni for Share YOUR Voice sessions. alumni and friends by the In each of these times together, we talked about the Fort Wayne Alumni & Friends creation of the Fort Wayne Alumni & Friends Resource Resource Center and the Taylor Center—its purpose and mission. We talked about key University Alumni Relations functions and words. We talked about perceptions Office. Copyright ©2013 Taylor and realities. I truly enjoyed dialoguing with and University®. listening to our alumni. While we are not finished, as I want to hear from Send address corrections and mailing updates to: more of you outside the Fort Wayne area, I believe Fort Wayne Alumni & Friends we have concluded that our mission has to be about Resource Center, 915 W. Rudisill caring, connecting, and celebrating what God has Blvd., Fort Wayne, IN 46807, or done and continues to do through our Fort Wayne call (260) 744-8790. campus alumni community. E-mail: [email protected] or Fortunately, God brought Kathryn Fenstermacher online at fw.taylor.edu c13, a Professional Writing intern, to pick up much of the writing of our publications, the FW Falcon Opinions expressed by e-newsletter, the FW Vine mini-magazine, and Fruit individuals in this publication do from the Vine, our new blog. This allowed me more not necessarily reflect the views time to work on a four-year review for the Taylor of Taylor University®. University President’s Cabinet and to attend more Share YOUR Voice sessions. The Fort Wayne campus was founded in 1904 as the Fort Thank you Kathryn! You have been a God-send, and Wayne Bible Training School. I believe our alumni will truly appreciate your work and It was renamed Fort Wayne ministry in this issue of the FW Vine. Our focus is on Bible Institute, Fort Wayne communicating how we are caring, connecting, and Bible College, Summit Christian celebrating with a plan for our continuance. Hope to College and later became Taylor hear YOUR voice soon. University Fort Wayne. Founded in 1846, Taylor University is one We care, connect, and celebrate, of America’s oldest Christian liberal arts colleges. Over 2,000 graduate and undergraduate students from 46 states and 24 foreign countries attend Taylor, where majors in 50 fields of study Michael D. Mortensen g91 are available. Director of FW Alumni & Friend Relations 4 Cover to Cover

A Kingdom View Alumni and friends remember "Prayer Mom" Violet Ringenberg and look for ways to continue her legacy of care.

2 A Legacy of Giving The Eicher family carries on the campus legacy—even after death.

6 Distinguished Campus Servants Check out the newest faces on our Distinguished Campus Servants page. (http://fw.taylor.edu/distinguished-servant/)

9 2 CARE A Kingdom View Violet Ringenberg, 1923-2013 passes on the "Prayer Mom" baton by Kathryn Fenstermacher cs13

oyful. Hospitable. Supportive. Faithful. basis. “She was such a faithful friend of the alumni Prayerful. and friends,” said friend and fellow Auxiliary J Hundreds of words could describe member Ruth Steiner gTU51, whose husband beloved friend and “Ma” Violet (Egly) Paul gTU50 served as the FWBC Chairman of Ringenberg g45, who entered her the Board. “When you were around her you had Heavenly Home on Feb. 4, 2013. Violet was that positive, can-do feeling.” one of the most cherished servants to grace Violet was admired for her leadership the Fort Wayne campus, devoting more than in many areas on campus. But she is 50 years of service to students and alumni remembered most for her participation in the alike. Many still grieve the woman who was Auxiliary’s “Prayer Mom” ministry, serving as a mother to them in so many ways, gently a prayer mom to more than 30 students over guiding them during their student days. the years. The program paired students with They face emptiness where her welcoming Auxiliary members committed to praying figure once stood. But sorrow blends for them throughout the year. Some prayer with joy as we reflect on Violet’s life and moms chose to invest further, inviting envision the beautiful ways her legacy of students into their homes and getting to caring will continue in the future. know them personally. Violet was among Violet’s primary legacy was one of prayer. them. “I think she probably did that more than Whether leading within the Women’s many of us,” said Caroline (Perry) Gerig g61, Auxiliary or volunteering for Phonathon, wife of former FWBC President Don Gerig she always had a prayer on her lips. As head g62, who served with Violet in the Women’s of FW Alumni Volunteer Prayer Team until Auxiliary. “She was a special person.” 2013, Violet received prayer requests from But Violet didn’t have to be an official alumni around the world and prayed for prayer mom to invest in students’ lives. each by name. “She was an encourager,” said Rich Sommer g79, a classmate and Joyce (Wiggle) Gerig fs61, a close friend roommate of Violet’s son Gary g79, claimed and volunteer. “If you had a prayer concern, Violet was like an adopted mother to him. you knew ‘Vi’ was going to pray about it.” He occasionally stayed overnight at the No less important was Violet’s commitment Ringenberg home, did his laundry there to service, especially involving relationships. As once or twice, and was part of a large crowd a pastor’s wife, Violet’s door was always open. of students the family regularly invited over She loved students, and made herself accessible after church. “We’d have 18 to 32 kids at to them by attending campus events on a regular her dinner table every Sunday afternoon,” Sommer said. “She kept doing it year after in the sense that what was important [to God] year, month after month. Her hospitality was important to her.” was second to none.” For Violet, prayer and service were Kelly McMichael g76 and his wife were foremost. Sommer said Violet taught students among the weekly visitors to the Ringenberg what Christian service is all about. “Violet was household. McMichael met Violet through a great visionary,” he said. “She always knew Woodburn Missionary Church where he if she helped us, that we were going to be able completed his Christian Service assignment. to impact other people.” Violet didn’t need to “She was very supportive of my work there,” step into a classroom to do so. She modeled it McMichael said, “and often encouraged me through her life. in that.” McMichael, who did not have a close Outside the classroom, on a deeply relationship with his mother, developed a personal level, Violet upheld the Fort Wayne special relationship with Violet, whom he campus legacy in her own special way. The considered his “surrogate” mother. Resource Center now offers you a chance Violet’s mothering influence continued long to model this kind of service to students after McMichael left Fort Wayne. They kept following in your footsteps, albeit on in touch, and when Violet called him during another campus. Phonathon each year she asked what his needs In the spirit of Violet Ringenberg—a prayer were so she could pray for them by name. “I mom to many students and a mother-figure appreciated that touch that she had, that she to many more—we would like to revive the was concerned with what was happening in “Prayer Parent” program by pairing Fort my personal life,” McMichael said. “She was Wayne alumni and friends with current really one of the most significant women in students at Taylor University. ministry that I knew.” We are looking for volunteers to break Violet cared for students like they were down old barriers, to learn a new name her biological children. But she was keenly and see a new face, and to continue Violet’s aware that they were her spiritual children, work among the next generation. Accept too. “Violet had such a Kingdom view,” Steiner the baton – email [email protected]. said. “She was responsive to the heart of God 4 CELEBRATE Cover to Cover The Yalunka people of West Africa celebrate Their first complete Bible translation by Kathryn Fenstermacher cs13

t was Sunday morning, Feb. 3, 2013. A crowd gathered in the village of Yatia, Republic of , West Africa. Among Ithem were the native Yalunkas, some of whom had traveled from nearby . Others had traveled further: a host of U.S. visitors were present. The people gathered before an open tent, beneath which sat a box full of books. Local Pastor Samuel removed the lid, and a murmur of excitement spread through the crowd as copies of the “Kisin Kiraan Kitabuna,” the “Salvation Road Holy Book,” were distributed among them. For the first time, the From left to right: Rev. Dave fs82 and Gwen Yalunkas began reading a complete Bible in (Warner) g78 DeSelm, Steve g80 and Sheila g82 their own language. Harrigan, and Bruce g89 and Dawn g89 Cluckie reunite in Guinea, West Africa. The dedication ceremony marked the completion of a more than 100-year process of Old Testament books, thanks to the work of translating the Bible into the Yalunka language. Steve’s parents, Bill g49 and Ruth (Egeland) g49 Missionaries from across the U.S. were involved Harrigan. However, the need for a completed through the years, but many of these had a Bible translation remained. common bond: Fort Wayne Bible College. Steve and Sheila’s focus was education; they "Spiritually and biblically, FWBC grounded taught the Yalunkas, who are largely illiterate, us in our faith,” said Steve g80 Harrigan who, through pictures and Bible stories. “We always along with his wife Sheila (Hilty) g82, served are concerned about literacy,” said Phil Logan as a missionary in West Africa for more than g67, who worked among the nearby Kuranko 10 years. “When you’re out there by yourself you people in Sierra Leone. “It’s a Bible-translator’s have very little spiritual encouragement. You worst fear that he will finish a translation and really need to be able to feed yourself, spiritually.” no one will be able to read it.” Phil and his wife Steve and Sheila began their ministry in 1987. Jan (Shumacher) g68 oversaw translation of They served the Yalunkas in Sierra Leone and the whole Bible into the Kuranko language, Guinea alongside fellow Fort Wayne graduates which was dedicated in 2008. Bruce g89 and Dawn (Clark) g89 Cluckie and Thus, the Fort Wayne missionaries laid a Taylor University graduate Stan g75 and Valli critical foundation for the work of Pioneer Yoder, among others. By then the Yalunkas had Bible Translator Greg Pruitt who arrived in translations of the New Testament and several Guinea in 1994. He took the missionaries’ Every Tribe, Tongue, and Nation

Fort Wayne graduates are involved in Bible translation around the world. Tommy g85 and Konni g86 Logan spent the last 22 years existing resources and began translating the Old Testament. in Western Province, Upon its completion, Bruce Cluckie played a large role in Papua New Guinea proofing the entire translation before it came to print. (PNG) with Wycliffe Bible Steve’s connections to West Africa run deeper than Translators. They have just most: he grew up there. His parents were called to Sierra finished translating the Leone in 1951.They settled in the village of Ganya and New Testament into the began their ministry among the Yalunkas. Although a minority among Sierra Leone’s 13 different language language of the Kasuas, a groups, Yalunkas are socially versatile: they learn local tribal group. languages quickly and easily adapt into the surrounding Currently in the States ethnic groups. Bill broke the Yalunka language into written for a Home Ministry form, jumpstarting the translation process. Assignment, the Logans Over 60 years after arriving in Sierra Leone, and with the help reunited with their of many hands, Bill and Ruth’s vision has become reality. This is daughter, Laura cs16, an incredible accomplishment for everyone involved. However, who recently entered her having a translation does not signify that the nation’s spiritual freshman year at Taylor needs have been met. “Continue to pray for the movement of University. Laura receives God,” Sheila urged. “Pray that the Yalunkas would be able to read the Fort Wayne Alumni this amazing gift, this book that God has given them.” Dependent Scholarship, Discipleship continues in West Africa. The Cluckies still which is awarded to minister in Guinea, and the Harrigans return annually to dependents of Fort Wayne encourage the Yalunka church. Through these ministries, the alumni who attend Taylor Fort Wayne legacy lives on. “The teaching and mentoring that University. “That scholarship happened at FWBC repeats itself in God’s Kingdom among was a huge life-saver this the Yalunkas,” Steve said. “FWBC as an institution is no more, year,” Tommy said. “It’s but its legacy lives on in West Africa through the lives it has such a wonderful blessing.” touched.” And that is something to celebrate. If you would like to get in touch with the Logans, you The late and his surviving wife, Editor’s Note: Jake g45 Ruth can find them on Facebook were honored for their lifetime of service (Caddy) g45 Schierling or email [email protected]. to the Kuranko people of Sierra Leone in early February. For more information and a picture, look at this link: http://fw.taylor.edu/ news/bible-school-building-complex-built-in-honor-of-schierlings. 6 CONTINUANCE A Legacy of Giving by Kathryn Fenstermacher cs13

Uncle Pete Eicher in his store, where he sold discount goods out of the Schultz Hall basement.

he Eicher family has played an integral college was on the verge of bankruptcy. role in the Fort Wayne campus’s Yet hope was always present when “Uncle history. Ever since Bethany Bible Pete,” Business Manager Peter L. Eicher InstituteT was transplanted from Bluffton, g1905, climbed into the passenger seat of Ohio to Fort Wayne in 1904, there has an old truck and rode to the local grocery. always been an Eicher involved. And in He began visiting bakers and shopkeepers the past 100 years, it was a member of the every weekend, bargaining for their day-old Eicher family who saved the Fort Wayne or damaged goods in bulk. “We’d go back legacy—not once, but twice. to the store room, and here there’d be a pile When the Great Depression struck in the of stuff in the corner,” saidBill Gerig g61, 1930s, it hit the Fort Wayne campus hard. one of Uncle Pete’s drivers for his weekend Students struggled to pay tuition, the campus purchases. “He’d look at it and say, ‘I’ll give struggled to pay its faculty, and the mortgage you 100 dollars’. . . . It was probably worth two of newly built Bethany Hall took its toll. The or three times as much.” Dick Baxter g70, former President of the Fort Wayne campus Alumni & Heritage Association, and Cyril Eicher g32 sign the Fort Wayne Alumni & Friends Resource Center Endowment in 2011.

During the Depression, the food went donating time and financial resources to directly to the campus kitchen where it the college. He helped establish the Eicher helped cut costs and kept students fed. Memorial Scholarship, which currently From a financial standpoint, Uncle Pete’s provides scholarships for students interested innovation was crucial to keeping the in missions at Taylor University. college afloat. “Cyril was legendary,” said Michael Uncle Pete didn’t stop his food runs Mortensen g91, Director of the Fort Wayne when the Depression ended, however, Alumni & Friends Resource Center. Cyril not even after his retirement in 1952. volunteered twice a week at the Resource Instead, he opened a store in the Schultz Center for as long as he was able until about Hall basement and sold food at discount five months before his home-going on Jan. prices to married students. “We could go 18, 2013, just shy of his 101st birthday. “He in there and buy a 35 cent can of tomatoes was always concerned about the state of for 5 cents that was just dented a little bit the Resource Center, in terms of where we on the side,” Gerig said. “A lot of married were in our financial needs and plans for the students felt like they made it through future,” Mortensen said. Caring for students school financially because of Uncle Pete.” and alumni remained his great love. A generation later, the late Cyril Eicher Even after his death, Cyril rivaled g32, Uncle Pete’s son, continued his father’s Uncle Pete in his financial generosity to generous legacy. Cyril served the college for the college. Cyril left four annuities that more than 20 years in a variety of positions, he specified should go to an endowment from campus treasurer to dean of students. for the Fort Wayne Alumni & Friends As director of correspondence studies he Resource Center, to support its mission saw program enrollment increase from 500 to and ministry for as long as it continues over 2,000 students. He continued assisting to function. If the Resource Center ever the campus even after his retirement in 1978, ceases to be a stewardly investment, 8 the portion of his estate he pledged to funded within the next three to five years this fund will be consolidated with the so that, as long as we have Fort Wayne Eicher Endowed Scholarship. campus alumni, we can be there to cheer While Cyril was the initial donor into them on in the calling that took shape on this fund, he hoped other members of the Fort Wayne campus.” the campus community would add their Uncle Pete Eicher saved the Fort pledges, and that together they could Wayne campus when 100 dollars made provide a total of $2 million to fully endow the difference between survival and the operation of the Resource Center. bankruptcy. His son Cyril has now Cyril’s donation along with three others has preserved the Fort Wayne legacy for taken the current total up to $244,656, and generations of alumni to come. with another $1.15 million pledged from annuities, estates, and a letter of intent, the goal is possible with the help of others. Editor's Note: Is the Fort Wayne Cyril’s legacy was the stepping stone campus or the FW Alumni & Friends that will allow the Resource Center to Resource Center in your will or would continue caring for, connecting, and you like to impact our ministry for celebrating the Fort Wayne campus and years to come? If so, please let us her alumni for years to come. know by emailing Michael Mortensen “It is really an overwhelming blessing,” at [email protected]. Mortensen said. “I hope this will be fully

Endorse Us o you appreciate the Resource Center’s vision of caring, connecting, and celebrating? Your financial endorsementD of this vision would show Taylor University you want them to continue their significant investment each year. Please consider giving something, as Poorman's Heating & Air Conditioning is going to match gifts up to $3,000 to show your support and to help us increase our alumni giving percentage. Currently, we Scan this code with are at 6.4 percent, and we hope to surpass your smartphone last year’s 12 percent no later than May 31. for more information We still need to receipt approximately about how to give. $17,000 by May 31 to fund our budget, so every gift makes a difference! Do we have your endorsement? CONNECT Distinguished campus servants Kathryn Fenstermacher cs13

id you know that your favorite professor in college may have changed her major? Has a Dprovost shared the story of his call to ministry? When did your college president get married? The Resource Center offers an online resource So far, feedback has been positive. “We get to explore the stories behind beloved Fort Wayne comments like, ‘I’m so glad you’re doing that,’ faculty and staff, delving into what motivated them and ‘This is a great idea,’” Platte said. A recent to give their all, both personally and professionally, statistics analysis showed that the page is the to the Fort Wayne campus and its students. third-most visited page on our website. Dr. Jay Platte g69 created a section on Viewers may not know, however, that each our website, fw.taylor.edu, where you can profile also includes an interactive tributes view profiles of valued faculty and staff who section, where they can share their own served the campus faithfully. We call them memories of these Distinguished Campus Distinguished Campus Servants; you might Servants. We love hearing how faculty and have called them professor, mentor, or friend. staff touched students’ lives, so we strongly The Alumni Council suggested those encourage you to check out this feature. they would like to see featured. Well-known The process is simple: visit our website, personalities like Joy Gerig g52 & g66, David fw.taylor.edu, and go to the Distinguished Biberstein g66, and Ronald Scharfe are already Campus Servants page. Click “Add Your online, with more being added monthly (coming Tribute” on the right side. Tributes are sent to soon: Daryl Yost ha96, Kari Reynolds g99, and us for approval and posted right to the page, Roger Ringenberg g69). Platte said there isn’t so fellow alumni and friends can share your a specific list to determine who “makes it” onto memories. Leave your tribute today! the page. Rather, the goal is to spread recognition among different departments. “We determined Editor’s Note: What are the selection that we needed to honor those who had faithfully criteria for Distinguished Campus Servants? served the campus, in any capacity,” Platte said. Use this link to find out: (http://fw.taylor. Each profile includes a summary biography and edu/distinguished-servant/) See what a timeline illustrating highlights of service. A full bios we have done and are up now. biography gives greater detail about their personal More will be added in the months lives. Additionally, each profile includes a photo ahead, so check back often. album which can be viewed as a slideshow. 10

Submit News Notes items to [email protected], call the Fort Wayne Alumni & Friends Resource Center at (260) 744-8790, or mail to FW Vine, 915 W. Rudisill Blvd., Fort Wayne, IN 46807. Do you receive our monthly e-newsletter, the FW Falcon? Contact the Resource Center to add your email address to our list.

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Rev. Nelson Chamberlin prenatal work in Puerto Rico, Charles g79 and Leslie fs75 g51 published his new book, in both secular and Christian Smith live in Missouri City, Biblical Views on Capital spheres. They worked with Texas and are involved with Punishment in December 2012. over 1,000 OB/GYN doctors the Christian and Missionary It narrates his involvement in and held prenatal classes in Alliance in planting a new the Emmett Hashfield case and seven different hospitals and church in Houston. delves into scriptures dealing clinics. Since retirement, they with capital punishment. It also have published a Bible study Skip Kite g80 is thanking offers suggestions for coping entitled, God's Knowledge of God for 41 years of teaching with issues the Death Penalty Our Minds. (The rough draft and communicating God’s presents. The book is available was written by Joanne's mother. Word. Recently he returned through http://www.fastpencil. She died of cancer in 1986 to Africa to renew old com/marketplace. “I’m grateful before she could finish it.) friendships, to participate in for my biblical training,” Ray is now working on a book training around 300 pastors/ Chamberlain said in reference entitled, No Way, Lord! ministers, and to be blessed to his FWBC training, “and this by praying with 18 young book is a result of that.” Ron and Nancy (Lindland) children to receive Jesus as fs68 Mahler are in their 35th Savior. After being hospitalized with year with The Navigators, an infection, Wes Gerig g51 serving all branches of the Craig g83 and Peggy was moved to Millers Merry military in discipleship and (Bearss) Vincent fs83, Manor, 5544 E State Blvd., Bible study. They have lived in Director of Streamside Camp Fort Wayne, Ind., 45815. He Hawaii for 21 of those years and Conference Center would enjoy receiving cards. and love the life and ministry (Stroudsburg, Pa.), reports 75 God has called them to. different events were held at Ray fs63 and Joanne g62 the camp this year with over Burriss retired from the Puerto Owen g75 and Marilyn 4,000 people attending. It has Rican mission field 12 years Cornelius have moved to Hot been great ministry but has ago, where they pioneered Springs, S.D., where they are stretched their resources and prenatal work for evangelism. teaching at Cornerstone Bible staff. Their work became the largest Institute. Rev. Garry g88 and Connie care of Joshua due to medical Dec. 10, 2012. She weighed 6 Brackett have moved to problems. The Hills currently lbs. 1 oz. and was 19 in. long. Frankfort, Ky. where he began reside in East Peoria, Ill. She joins sister Amaela, 11 and serving as the senior pastor brothers Clay, 8; Graham, 4; of New Harvest Assembly of After 15 years and many and Everett, 2. Rona is a stay-at- God last year. changes, Melissa (Ayers) home mom, and her husband Bales g98 left the world is a Fort Wayne fireman. Stuart Zurcher fs88 married of banking to begin work Julie Ritter on Nov. 26, 2010. as an Assistant/Assistant Dave Arnold g98 has They live in Sully, Iowa. Program Coordinator for published a book, Pilgrims of the Fellowship Program at the Alley. His book is about Riley Children's Hospital how to live out an authentic in Indianapolis. She lives faith in a world where we with her husband, Ron in don’t fit in and often find Greenwood, Ind. it challenging to live. It’s a book about hope and about Joe Boway g95, while living in learning to see how God Fort Wayne, sert ves with the is at work in the alleys of Liberian Children’s Ministry. He life. For more information, was in from March 13 to contact him at dave@ Jeffrey fs90 and Barbara April 19 attending the Easter bridgecitychurch.com. Hill were blessed with a new Conference for the Southeastern arrival to their family on Liberian Lutheran Churches. Kent g98 and Angie Saturday, Sep. 8, 2012. Lillia Joe was thrilled to be there on (Schumacher) g99 Christine was born at 9:29 Easter Sunday when a number Morton, who have p.m. in Peoria, Ill. Lillia has an of children from the Lutheran been serving as FEC older sister, Victoria, 11, and schools were baptized. Missionaries in Albania two older brothers, Joshua, with their children, are 8, and Nathanael, 7. Barbara Rona g96 and Ty Bruce are home on furlough raising is a stay-at-home mom and pleased to announce the birth additional funds and are Jeffrey is at home helping take of Lael Susanne who was born hoping to return to Albania

Jim Clauser received Award Jim Clauser g62 received a Distinguished Alumni Award from the South Side High School Association last October. This award is given to alumni who have demonstrated exemplary life-long service through their careers and contributions to their community. Jim was honored primarily for his 36-year teaching career at R. Nelson Snider High School, Fort Wayne, Ind., and his work with the Indiana State Teachers Association and Association-Retired. Jim said he feels most humble to be included among the esteemed South Side graduates. To read more about Clauser’s award, go to http:// fw.taylor.edu/news/jim-clauser-receives-award. 12

in late summer or early fall. Jeff g00 and Shauna Spence They have just announced are pleased to announce the The New Girl they will be returning in a birth of Jeffrey III, born Feb. different role with an ECMI 7, 2013. He arrived weighing church plant initiative, but 7 lbs. 8 oz. and was 19.5 in. will still be connected to long. Jeffrey III joins Ava, FEC. They will be working 2. The Spences continue to in the capital of Albania serve with World Partners with the focus of planting USA in Southeast Asia. a church that is sustainable and reproducible. They are Steve g00 and Mandy happy to come and share (Wilson) g00 West their vision of their work welcomed Elias Reed on in Albania at your church May 5, 2012. He joins Have you enjoyed during Sunday school siblings Lizzy, 8; Lily, reading our print and class, in a small group, or 6; and Garrett, 3. Steve online publications this even over a cup of coffee works for the family's year? You have been at your favorite café. The life and health insurance reading the work of Mortons can be reached at business and Mandy [email protected]. is full-time mom and our first intern, Kathryn teacher. The Wests live in Fenstermacher cs13, Jennifer Woolever Logansport, Ind. who has completed her g98 now works as the Professional Writing Administrative Assistant practicum with us this to the Financial Director semester. In addition at the Missionary Church to her work with the Denominational Office in FW Falcon, FW Vine, Fort Wayne. She works with and our website, she another TUFW alumnus, has published weekly Jeremy Steup g00, the updates on our new Assistant Director of Finance. blog, Fruit from the Vine. Thank you, Josh fs99 and Rebecca Kathryn, for your hard fs99 Boyd moved to Las work this semester Vegas where they started a helping us care, trailblazing ministry, Fight connect, and celebrate! Church (www.fightchurch. com), in the fall of 2010. To read our The ministry is dedicated to blog, please visit those involved in the fastest fruitfromthevine. growing sport, Mixed Martial Charisa (Piety) g01 wordpress.com. Arts. Josh also serves as a and Shannon Childress full-time MMA Chaplain. welcomed Zachary Thomas Rebecca works in the born on Feb. 21 at 10:32 a.m. Education Department at the in San Diego, Calif. Zachary Smith Center for Performing Thomas weighed 6lbs. 11oz. Arts. The Boyds have three and joins big brother Noah, 3. children: Josiah, 14; Rachel, 12; and Joel, 11. Ron Garner g03 recently Brooke (Wilson) g03 became the pastor of Bethel married Jeff Hartman on Church, Bluffton, Ind. Ron June 25, 2010 in Destin, and wife Tonya, a former Fla. Several TUFW TUFW secretary, have alumni were able to four children: Samuel, 10; attend: Mike g03 and Benjamin, 8; Abigail; 6, and Bethany g03 Collins, Elizabeth, 4. Currently the Doug and Elaine Willig Garners are asking God to sell g03, Rebecca Green their house in Bryan, Ohio. Knight g99 and Bethany Sprinkle fs03 (maid of honor). The Hartmans are living in Carmel, Ind., but are looking to serve Nate g02 and Grace with World Next Store (Vanover) g04 Patterson for a year, living in four welcomed Audra Grace different countries around Patterson on Dec. 29, 2012. the world and using She weighed 8 lbs. and was their photography and 19.5 in. long. Audra joins her Jenni (Edgar) g03 and Sam journalism skills to bring older brother, John, 2. The Runkle are the proud parents attention to social injustice. Pattersons live in Mooresville, of another baby boy, born on Ind., where they both serve in Feb. 7 at 4:32 p.m. Benjamin Lori (Craw) Current full-time ministry. "Ben" Clay Runkle weighed g04 has recently been 8 lbs. 9 oz. and was 21.5 in. named President of long. He joins Will, 4; Joe, 3; HYPE (Helping Young and Eli, 2. The Runkles live Professionals Engage) in just south of Fort Wayne in Wayne County (Richmond), Hoagland, Ind. Ind. Additionally, Lori serves as the Assistant Director of Admissions at Indiana University East in Richmond, Ind. Her husband, Michael g05, is a teacher. The Currents have two boys, David, 7, and Cohen, 4, and Chad g03 and Ann (Spencer) live in Richmond. g04 Heathco have added a third child to their family. Jennifer Curtis fs04 Henry Charles was born on Rob and Joy (Stutzman) recently moved to March 9, 2013 at 3:29 p.m. in Martz g03, along with Katie, 8; Indianapolis, where she Plymouth, Ind. Henry weighed Abbie, 6; Hallie, 5; and Judah, 3, is a preschool teacher at 8 lbs. and was 21.5 in. long. welcomed Jubilee Anne on Jan. the Goddard School of He joins Carter, 7, and Maylin, 17, 2013. Jubilee weighed 7 Zionsville, Ind. 4. Chad works as the CFO of K lbs. 10 oz. and was 20 in. long. and M Machining in Cassopolis, Mich. and Ann stays at home as a full-time mom and teacher. 14

came first weighing 4 lbs. 14 oz. His twin, Benjamin John, weighed 4 lbs. 13 oz. Transition to The twins join their older Teaching brother Sawyer, 2. The Keys

live in Winston-Salem, N.C.

It’s never too late to Sophia Karis Krabach was pursue your dreams born to Jeff g04 and Kim Shawn and Emily (Miller) delivered Ava with Taylor University’s (Tabor) g04 Krabach on g05 La Rue Elise La Rue on Feb. 1, 2013. Transition to Teaching March 13, 2013. Sophia She weighed 8 lbs 1 oz. and program. This online weighed 7 lbs. 4 oz. and was almost 21 in. long. The was 20.25 in. long. She joins graduate program, which Krabachs live in Kirkland, Kyla, 4, and Micah, 1. The originated on the Fort Wash., where Jeff does La Rues live in Auburn, Ind., Wayne campus, grants contract work for Microsoft where Shawn is a youth pastor Indiana state teaching as a Software Test Lead, and and Emily is a stay-at-home licensure in elementary Kim is a full-time mom. Mom. Ava Elise is Michael or secondary education. Sophia joins Noah, 6. Mortensen g91's niece. It allows individuals who hold a baccalaureate Christy Wedge fs04 is TheRev. Johnny Raber g05 degree to earn their now the UX Design Lead, was ordained March 17, 2013 teaching license within a graphic designer, for Vail at the LaGrange Missionary 12 months. Cassie Resorts in Colorado. She Church in LaGrange, Ind., (Warriner) Lemberg lives in Denver. where he serves as the g08, who markets the Associate Pastor. He serves program, said the online April (Gridley) g05 and with his wife Heather (Auer) format is a great fit for Jason Ruggles are the proud Raber g04, who is a full-time nontraditional students parents of Ian Alexander Mom to their three children, and includes hands- Ruggles born on Dec. Dawson, 4; Rylan, 3; and on interaction with 20, 2012 at 7:49 a.m. He Myla, 1. local schools as well. weighed 8 lbs. 3 oz. and Kylee Shirey g05 was one of For a deeper look into was 21 in. long. He joins big two TUFW graduates to be Transition to Teaching, sister Gwen. The Ruggles live in Michigan. recognized by the Greater visit http://online.taylor. Fort Wayne Business Weekly edu/transition-to- Erica (Stratton) g05 and as a recipient of the “40 teaching/. Jon Key are pleased to Under 40” award. She was announce the birth of not also nominated for the 2013 just one baby, but two on ATHENA Young Professional Feb. 28, 2013. Levi Timothy Leadership Award given by the Fort Wayne Chamber Iowa. He is also a licensed Courtney (Stoppenhagen) of Commerce. Shirey is addictions counselor. He g07 Bilbrey received her an attorney with Barrett & and his wife Linda have Master of Social Work from McNagny LLP and has two four children and six Loyola University Chicago. She, children. grandchildren. Jason g07, and their daughter, Norah, live in Chicago. Matt g06 and Michelle (Arvola) fs06 Sayles Angelo Mante g08 received welcomed Bethany Anne on his Master of Divinity Feb. 5, 2013 at 6:10 a.m. She from Emory University's weighed 8 lbs. 2 oz. and was Candler School of Theology 21 in. long. She joins N. Elliot, in Atlanta in May 2012. He 5; Toby, 3; and Isabella, 2. and Marie fs11, owner of Solid Rock Tutoring, and their two girls, Sophia, 4, and Michelle (Cooper) g05 and Naomi, 2, are "loving life." Jeremy White welcomed They are serving at North Asher James White on Decatur United Methodist March 19. He weighed 4 Congregation, where Angelo lbs. 13.6 oz. and was 18.25 is an assistant pastor, but in. long. He joins Micah, 2. they will be moving to Michelle is an educational another congregation in June. consultant working in Currently, Angelo is in the research analysis and Jenni (Bathgate) g06 and ordination process. program development. Aaron Wallace welcome Parker Aaron Wallace, born Tyler Binkley g06 was one Feb. 9, 2013 at Parkview of two TUFW graduates North in Fort Wayne, Ind. He recognized by the Greater weighed 8 lbs. 13oz. and was 22 Fort Wayne Business Weekly in. long. He joins older sisters, as a recipient of the “40 Addie, 3, and Laini, 2. Under 40” award. He is a commercial real estate Adam g07 and his wife, broker with NAI Harding Esther Sharp moved to Dahm in Fort Wayne. Binkley Springdale, Ohio, just outside Jared g08 and Elizabeth is married to Jennifer, and of Cincinnati, in October (VandenAvond) g07 they have Eden Joy, who was 2012 to become the Director Pomeroy adopted a baby girl, born Nov. 15, 2011. of High School Ministry at Elea Jane, on Feb. 13, 2013. the Vineyard Church. He Elea Jane was born Aug. 14, Benny Powell Sr. g06 is loves his new ministry. 2012 at 8:10 a.m. She weighed pastoring the Temple Baptist 7 lbs. 6 oz. and was 19 in. long. Church of Davenport, After her adoption, Elea Jane

Editor's note: More current News & Notes are added weekly on our new website: fw.taylor.edu. Alumni and friends can send for our review and posting, and then they can be read by former classmates and friends. Check out this new feature today! 16 was baptized the following day Nick and Amber g09 Salsbury g10, groomsman. – Valentine's Day! Reynolds, along with Bill is the Youth Pastor big sisters River, 4, and at the church where the Emerson James Wells made Caedence, 2, welcomed wedding took place. his entrance into the world at Tennyson Hayes on May 4:25 a.m. March 15, 2013. He 5, 2012. He weighed 6 lbs. Becky Blomenberg g11 weighed 7 lbs. 3.5 oz. and was 13oz. and was 19 in. long. recently started a new job as 21 in. long. He is the son of Phil Amber is a full-time mom, a reporter for the Decatur g08 and Beth Wells, who live a piano teacher with Take Daily Democrat, Decatur, in Waupaka, Wis., where Phil is Lessons, and works as a Ind., where she has relocated. the Student Ministries Pastor at hostess at a local restaurant. Her email is rebekah. Faith Community Church. [email protected].

Shawn Harrison g09 recently published a book,

Ministering to Gay Teenagers. This short, practical book is Have you visited our Facebook for youth workers, leaders, and page recently? As of the end families. It can be purchased of April, we have over 800 at www.simplyyouthministry. “Likes”! Our page, FW Alumni com. Shawn and his wife, & Friends Resource Center, Emily, live in St. Marys, Ohio, is a great way for alumni to where Shawn is a youth pastor connect and share updates. We at Wayne St. UMC. frequently post news blurbs, words of encouragement, Bill Helmlinger g10 married and photos from the good Jennifer Marie Talbott on old college days. If you have Saturday, Oct. 6, 2012 at not yet connected with us on the Dupont Church of the Facebook, go to www.facebook. Brethren in Dupont, Ohio. com/FWAmniFriendsResource Those in the wedding from Center. Take a look around, TUFW included Joel Lange and remember to “Like” us g10, best man, and Brent before you leave!

Fort Wayne Celebrates! 2013

Mark your calendars for Sep. 13-14, 2013 when the classes of ‘63, ‘73, ‘88, and ‘03 are invited to the Fort Wayne campus for their 50th, 40th, 25th, and 10th class reunions, respectively. We are looking for volunteers from each class to help plan the celebrations, so contact Bill Gerig at [email protected] or call 260.744.8790 if you would like to get involved. We could not keep bringing hundreds of visitors back to campus each year without your help!

For more information, visit http://fw.taylor.edu/news/class-of- 1963-1973-1988-and-2003-reunions. Memorials: Rena (DeMitchell) Smith member of the Fort Wayne g39, passed away in Laguna Alumni Council and the Rev. Cyril Eicher g32, 100, Woods, Calif. on Tuesday, coordinator of the Fort passed away Jan. 18, 2013 Jan. 28, 2012. Her husband, Wayne Alumni Volunteer in Mooresville, Ind., at the the Rev. Wesley Smith g39, Prayer Team. She and Gerald home of son Larry g61 preceded her in death. g45, who survives her, were and Marge fs68 Eicher, married 67 years and served in where he had been living Rev. Blanchard E. Amstutz ministry during those years. for the past five months. g41, TUg46, passed away Cyril, known to thousands on Tuesday, Jan. 1, 2013 in Eleanor Lyon-Nielsen g50, as “Dean Eicher,” served as Minneapolis. He was 92 87, passed away to be with the professor and administrator and led a full life of service, Lord on Wednesday, Jan. 23, for 28 years at Fort Wayne working with the Billy 2013. She had been a teacher Bible College. Later he served Graham Association and for 30 years. Even after on the Alumni Council and pastoring churches for over retirement she continued to volunteered multiple days 40 years. He is survived by educate in music and art. She per week on campus and his wife of over 65 years, also helped the alumni office later at the Fort Wayne Verna, three sons and their design backdrops for multiple Alumni & Friends Resource families, and many grand Alumni Banquets. Center, identifying pictures, and great-grandchildren. He documents, and events. He was preceded in death by a Jerrold E. Meyer, g60, 79, is listed on the Distinguished daughter. A memorial service went to be with his Savior Campus Servants page was held on Jan. 24, 2013 at after having a heart attack on on our website—http:// the First United Methodist Dec. 2, 2013 in Maumee, Ohio. fw.taylor.edu. In addition Church in Ashland, Ky. Mr. Meyer had been a treasure to his service at the Fort for more than three decades in Wayne campus, Cyril Violet (Egly) Ringenberg several educational institutions, pastored several churches in g45, 89, entered her Heavenly and he had also served as a Fort Wayne, Cleveland, and home on Monday, Feb. 4, pastor. Surviving him is his Detroit. 2013. Violet was an emerita wife, Linda, of 38 years.

Fort Wayne Online Store The Fort Wayne Online Store offers memorabilia that connects you to your campus: Fort Wayne wearables, building replicas, CDs, DVDs, and books. One of our most recent additions is Ira Gerig+, a compilation of Dr. Ira Gerig's recordings from his 1975 album, Jesus Loves Me. It also includes an audio interview where he shares part of his testimony in his own words. CDs cost only $7, which includes shipping and handling. Proceeds from the store benefit the ongoing ministry of the Resource Center.

http://fw.taylor.edu/store Nonprofit Organization U.S. Postage PAID Upland, IN 915 W. Rudisill Blvd. Permit No. 3 Fort Wayne, IN 46807

“We Care, Connect, and Celebrate!” – http://fw.taylor.edu

Spring 2013