Clisty Fruchte

Clisty L. Fruchte, 91 of Monroe passed away Wednesday, November 25, 2020, at Swiss Village in Berne. She was born June 3, 1929, in Monroe to Edward and Lillie (Beer) Rich. She was married August 6, 1950, at the Monroe United Methodist Church to Herbert Eugene “Herb” Fruchte.
Her life could be described in “let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly father.” — Matthew 5:16 New Living
She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. She always lent a helping hand to her immediate family, church family, friends and neighbors. Most of all she was a joyful prayer warrior and served the Lord by serving others with her talents and remarkable faith. She was a caregiver to family and was devoted to significant care of her son, Keith.
She worked at the Dutch Mill and was custodian for the Monroe United Methodist Church for over 25 years. She also was a part of the United Methodist Women’s Group and presented lesson from the Word and also was helpful with fundraising projects for missions.
All who entered their home were welcomed with open arms, good food and a listening ear. She took time to get to know people and was interested in their personal stories. She will long be remembered for her warm smile and winning personality and as a gracious host to all who entered her home.
She had a passion for cooking and perfected many recipes. Fixing food for others brought her joy. She was featured in the Fort Wayne Journal Gazette’s Cook’s Corner for her baked apples, breaded chicken strips and potato soup. The potato soup was a church bazaar and family favorite.
During her time at Swiss Village, her ministry continued with a friendly smile and her positive affirmation for her caregivers. She was loved and will be missed by all.
She is survived by two daughters, Karen (Ken) Johnson of Decatur; and Connie (Scott) Sprunger of Berne; son, Keith Fruchte of Berne; three grandchildren, Kristina (Sprunger) Dudgeon and Jared of Berne; and Jennifer (Sprunger) Gilbert and Matthew; and Allison (Sprunger) Garwood and Dustin, both of Monroe; eight great-grandchildren, Lauren Dudgeon; Austin Dudgeon; Alivia, Millie and Wrigley Gilbert; and Kinsley, Aspen and Wynn Garwood; brother, Howard (Beverly) Rich of Bluffton; and sister-in-law, Marilyn Fruchte of Decatur.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband on October 9, 2011; and siblings, Doyle Rich; Eileen Borne; Dorothy Rich; and Harold Rich.
A private family service will be held at Monroe United Methodist Church. Officiating will be Pastor David Myers. Burial will be at Ray Cemetery in Monroe.
There will be a celebration of life service held in the spring at the Monroe United Methodist Church. Details will be announced when they are available.
Memorials may be made to the Monroe United Methodist Church.
Arrangements provided by Thoma/Rich, Lemler Funeral Home in Bluffton. Online condolences may be made at www.thomarich.com.