Eli J. Stutzman, 82, of New Bedford, Ohio, passed away at his residence on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, after a lengthy period of Parkinson's disease.

He was born on December 16, 1943, to the late Jonas and Lovina (Beachy) Stutzman.

On August 27, 1963, he married Sylvia Schlabach who preceded him in death on February 27, 1997. On August 28, 1997, he married Mary Miller and she survives.

Eli was involved in various forms of the timber industry all his life including sawmill, pallet shop, and logging. He enjoyed spending time in the outdoors hunting and fishing. He was a member of the Old Order Amish Church.

In addition to his second wife, Mary, he is survived by his children, Daniel (Cindy) Stutzman of New Bedford, John Stutzman of the home, Wilma (Aden) Troyer of Baltic; 12 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; a brother, Melvin (late Rebecca) Stutzman of Becks Mills; sister, Mary (Alvin) Raber of Chili; sister-in-law, Mary (late Vernon) Stutzman of Warsaw; and brother-in-law, Eli (late Ada) Barkman of New Bedford.

In addition to his parents and his first wife, Sylvia, he was preceded in death by his son Noah; granddaughter, Joann Troyer; sisters, Amanda Stutzman and Ada Barkman; brothers, Dan (Martha) Stutzman, Noah (Amanda) Stutzman and Vernon Stutzman; and sister-in-law, Rebecca Stutzman.

Funeral services will be held at the Ridge View Community Center, 33277 SR 643, Fresno, on Saturday, May 9, at 9 a.m. with Bishop Neal D. Miller officiating. Burial will follow in the Barkman Cemetery. Friends may call at the Ridge View Community Center after 2 p.m. on Thursday and any time on Friday.

A special thank you to the church, neighbors and friends for all your visits and support. Thank you also to Ohio's Hospice for your assistance.

Miller Funeral Care of Walnut Creek 330-893-CARE.