Clarence Richard Troyer, a prolific builder in Northeastern Ohio, age 86, passed away July 15, 2024, surrounded by his entire family, following a brief illness.  He was born in Hartville, OH on December 7, 1937, to Moses and Edna (Troyer) Troyer.  He was married to Sarah Ann Sommers on November 22, 1958.

In addition to his parents, Clarence was preceded in death by his step-mother, Amy (Eash) Troyer, a nephew, Brendan Zehr, a sister, Esther Coblentz, and a brother, Donnie Troyer.   He is survived by Sarah, his wife of 65 years, three sons: Terry (Wanra) of Chesapeake, VA, Bob (Leora) of Kidron, OH, and Richard, of Richmond, VA, and one daughter: Amanda (Greg) Pudloski of Stow, OH, five grandchildren: William, Andrew, and Benjamin Troyer and Jack and Emma Pudloski, a brother: Mervin (Nina) Troyer, a sister: Ruth (Nathan) Zehr, brothers-in-law: Leon Coblentz and Owen Stoll, sisters-in-law: Amanda Overholt, Ruth Miller, and Martha Sommers, along with many nieces and nephews.  

Clarence’s mother died on his ninth birthday and his father was able to keep the family together. In third grade he met the love of his life, who he married and with whom he raised four children.  Clarence and Sarah have remained lifelong members of Cornerstone Community Chapel, (formerly Marlboro Mennonite), where he filled many roles such as Elder, Sunday School Superintendent and teacher, and youth sponsor with Sarah.  While Sarah managed the Hartville Thrift Shoppe, Clarence actively participated with her to make it successful. Clarence was well-known as a successful builder; in semi-retirement he was a sought-after supervisor for various building projects, culminating in the construction of the Hartville MarketPlace and Flea Market.  

As a follower of Jesus, Clarence used his gifts and strength to serve others.  He was often asked to lead a group of skilled craftsmen in local building projects of homes and Mennonite institutions.  He volunteered with Habitat for Humanity, Mennonite Disaster Service, and building projects in Nicaragua and Guatemala.  He was quietly generous with both time and resources.

Clarence deeply loved and enjoyed his family.  Nothing brought him more joy than his grandchildren.  Fishing, sled-riding, golf cart and tractor-riding, and attending sporting and musical events were some of the highlights.  He is profoundly missed by his family.

Clarence was a life-long learner, using critical thinking skills and his love for reading, to seek wisdom in bringing about God’s kingdom on earth.