Hershberger, Eli J. (1929-1970)

Mennonite Weekly Review obituary: 1970 Oct 22 p. 7

Birth date: 1929

text of obituary:

Father of Two Drowns When Boat Capsizes On Michigan River

Goshen, Ind. — A fishing trip on the St. Joseph River between Berrien Springs and Buchanan, Mich. on Oct. 10 ended with the accidental drowning of Eli J. Hershberger, 41, of rural Goshen. His companion, Freeman Miller, 38, of Bristol narrowly escaped.

The boat occupied by the two men reportedly began filling with water, and as they were baling it out, the craft capsized. Both clung to boat cushions, but Hershberger was swept away by the strong current. Miller was able to drift to shore.

The body of Hershberger had not been recovered several days after the accident. A memorial service was held Oct. 15 at the Clinton Brick Mennonite Church, with Rev. John J. Yoder in charge.

Mr. Hershberger, who was employed as a truck driver, leaves his widow, Sylvia Ileen; a son, Michael Wm., 21, of Staunton, Va., and one daughter, Nona Ann, 19, of the home; one grandchild; his father, Joseph Hershberger of rural Goshen; two sisters and two brothers.

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Mennonite Weekly Review obituary: 1970 Oct 29 p. 6

text of obituary:

Body of Drowning Victim Recovered from River

Goshen, Ind. — The body of Eli J. Hershberger of rural Goshen was found Oct. 19 in the St. Joseph River near Berrien Springs, Mich., about two miles from where he and a companion were fishing when their boat capsized. The accident occurred Oct. 10.

Graveside services were held Oct. 20 at the Clinton Community Cemetery. A memorial service was held at the Clinton Brick Church on Oct. 15.