Lester W. Chupp, 74, of Holmesville Dies; Funeral Jan. 22

Lester W. Chupp, a familiar presence at Gospel Haven Mennonite Church and in local transportation circles, died Jan. 19 at his Holmesville home after a period of declining health. His passing removes a long-serving volunteer and community connector whose work in the church sound booth and behind the wheel affected congregations and neighbors across Holmes County.

Born July 21, 1951, Chupp married Esther Troyer in 1972 and spent decades rooted in church life and family activities. He was known locally for his videography, camping and travel, interests that he brought into church events and family gatherings. Those pursuits complemented his practical contributions: he regularly staffed the church sound booth, helping services and programs run smoothly, and drove for Angel Transportation, providing rides that linked residents to appointments, worship and community events.

Chupp is survived by his wife, four daughters, grandchildren and siblings. He was preceded in death by his parents. For many in Holmesville, the loss is felt both personally and institutionally: volunteers like Chupp sustain small congregations and community services that rely on steady, often unpaid labor. The absence of that daily stewardship underscores how local institutions depend on generational commitment and quiet expertise to operate.

Funeral services were scheduled for Jan. 22 at Gospel Haven Mennonite Church. Family and community members wishing to remember his life were asked to consider memorial contributions to Special Hearts Daycare, a local early childhood program that benefits from community support. Funeral arrangements are being coordinated through the local funeral home, and the church can provide additional details for those seeking to pay respects or offer assistance to the family.

Chupp’s roles illustrate the interlocking civic networks in Holmes County, where churches, volunteer drivers and family caregivers form the backbone of social infrastructure. His work in the sound booth and behind the wheel minimized barriers to participation for older residents and families, and his videography documented moments many small congregations rely on to preserve memory and foster connection.

For neighbors, the immediate consequence is a chance to support the family and to reflect on volunteer capacity in local institutions. Longer term, the community faces the practical question of who will fill the technical and service roles Chupp managed. Services on Jan. 22 will provide an opportunity to honor his contributions and to consider how Holmesville will maintain the volunteer-driven services he helped sustain.