Clisty L. Fruchte

June 3, 1929 - November 25, 2020

Clisty L. Fruchte, 91 of Monroe, passed away on Wednesday evening, November 25, 2020, at Swiss Village in Berne. She was born on June 3, 1929 in Monroe, Indiana to Edward & Lillie (Beer) Rich. On August 6, 1950, Clisty and Herbert Eugene “Herb” Fruchte were married at the Monroe United Methodist Church. He preceded her in death on October 9, 2011 Clisty’s 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. Clisty 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 fund raising 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. Clisty will long be remember for her warm smile and winning personality, 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. Survivors include her children; Karen (Ken) Johnson of Decatur, Connie (Scott) Sprunger of Berne and Keith Fruchte of Berne along with 3 grandchildren; Kristina (Sprunger) Dudgeon & Jared of Berne, Jennifer (Sprunger) Gilbert & Matthew of Monroe, Allison (Sprunger) Garwood & Dustin of Monroe and 8 great-grandchildren; Lauren Dudgeon, Austin Dudgeon, Alivia, Millie & Wrigley Gilbert and Kinsley, Aspen & Wynn Garwood. Clisty is also survived by a brother, Howard (Beverly) Rich of Bluffton and a sister-in-law, Marilyn Fruchte of Decatur. She is preceded in death by her parents, and siblings; Doyle Rich, Eileen Borne, Dorothy Rich and Harold Rich. A Private family service will be held at Monroe United Methodist Church with Pastor David Myers officiating. Burial will follow at Ray Cemetery in Monroe. Memorials may be made in Clisty’s memory to the Monroe United Methodist Church. 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. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the care of the Thoma/Rich, Lemler Funeral Home in Bluffton. Friends can send online condolences to the family at www.thomarich.com.