GREENFIELD
Martha Jane (“Janie”) Crider, age 89, with family by her side, went to be with her Lord and Savior on Sunday, June 23, 2024. Born in 1934 to Lawrence and Leone Kerkhof, Janie was a farm girl at heart. In May 1955, she married a boy from town, Maurice Eugene (“Gene”) Crider. Together they built a typewriter and office supply business that successfully supported the family. She was a steady helper and friend to her husband of 67 years and, as he admitted, she made him a better man.
Janie was devoted to serving in Christ’s name. She was a Bible Study Fellowship group leader for many years, volunteered at LOVE Inc., drove cancer patients, participated in the noodle ministry at Trinity Park, and served at many funeral dinners and wedding receptions at the church. These are just a few examples of the countless ways she served. Janie was generous in her time and service to others, often in quiet and unassuming ways. Those paying attention saw the Fruit of the Spirit evident in her life.
Janie sought to lead a Christian life in word and deed and her enduring faith was a strong example to her four children: Stanley Crider (Julie) of Greenfield, Sandra Wester (Joel) of Waycross GA, Stacey Talbott (Paul) of Greenfield, and Susan Collins (John) of Parker CO. Grandchildren: Carlee Poe (Sean), Cody Crider (Hillary), Brittany Selby (Doug), Harrison Wester (Danielle), Luke Wester, Oliver Talbott, Claire Semerjyan (Mihran), Jack McClarnon (Kim), Morgan Bucuimean (Bogdan) and 8 great grandchildren.
Janie was preceded in death by her loving husband Gene, parents Lawrence and Leone Kerkhof, brother Norris Kerkhof, and grandson Ian Talbott.
Janie’s devotion to her family will be cherished. She was the glue of the family hosting many holiday meals and family gatherings. She garnered much joy in playing cards, dominos, and board games with her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. In addition to family, Janie enjoyed the company of good friends, especially during her active years. Many will hold dear the special memories made with her.
All told, hers was a life well lived.
The family extends their gratitude to Dr. Michael Fletcher for his years of loving care of both Janie and Gene. A deep appreciation to the Legacy staff who provided care for Janie during the past two years and to her church family at Trinity Park. Your care and support of her as she dealt with the debilitating effects of Parkinson’s Disease was heartwarming. We will be forever grateful for the kindness shown.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, June 29, 2024, from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. at Trinity Park Church, 207 W Park Ave, Greenfield, IN 46140. A funeral service will follow the visitation at 11:00 a.m. Pastor Mike Manning will be officiating. Burial will follow at Park Cemetery in Greenfield, Indiana.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made by mail to Trinity Park Church at 207 W Park Ave, Greenfield, IN 46140 or to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research at P.O. Box 5014 Hagerstown, MD 21741. Envelopes will be available at the church. Friends may share a memory or condolence at www.erleweinmortuary.com.
Arrangements are being handled by Erlewein Mortuary &Crematory in Greenfield.
