Both Grace and John were raised on family farms and began their relationship attending the same school in Walton. By the time they graduated from high school, John had worked in farming but also moonlighted with area plumbers and electricians, gaining skills that qualified him for his future employment, and house restoration and repair projects.
Grace and John’s sixty-seven (and counting!) years of married life began with their union at the Walton Mennonite Church in September 1957. They settled in an apartment in Newton.
John became a Santa Fe Railroad freight conductor—a position he held for forty-two years . Grace was a typist at Newton Finance and Investment before becoming a full-time mother to their children, a girl and boy.
When the children were older, Grace worked at the First Mennonite Church for eighteen and one-half years. As a family, the Yoders frequently enjoyed boating and camping at favorite locations in the area.
They resided in their house on ninth street and in the late ‘70s, early ‘80s they acquired and maintained some rental properties. Needless to say, their days were busy and, no doubt, necessitated customer service skills!
On March 1, 2023 John and Grace settled in their home on our campus and have joined the faith community at East Side United Methodist Church.
These days John says he manages “to pass the vacuum” and Grace pursues quilting projects. Some of her lovely quilts adorn their beds.
Although their children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren are scattered throughout the United States the Yoders savor the times when everyone can gather, especially during holidays.