Earl Groff Denlinger, age 85, of Hartville, passed away on Monday, January 18, 2016.

He was born in Lampeter, Pennsylvania on March 2, 1930 to the late Anna Mary Denlinger and Paul Milton Denlinger. He volunteered at the Fox Street Mission in New York City, where he met Magdalena Denlinger.

After their marriage on July 31, 1955, together they served five years in the work there. Eventually, they made a home in Hartville, where they raised eight children. He was a faithful member of Hartville Conservative Mennonite Church. He blessed many with his gifts of humor, music, and hospitality.

He is survived by his eight children: Marcia (David) Miller of Seymour, MO; Rose (Harold) Miller of Hartville; Marjorie Denlinger of Hartville; Steven (Laura) Denlinger of Vashon, WA; David (Jan) Denlinger of North Canton; Tim (Lori) Denlinger of Meyerstown, Pennsylvania; Richard (Tina) Denlinger of Hartville; and Heidi (Adin) Stoltfoos of Burgettstown, Pennsylvania. He is also survived by seven sisters: Betty Denlinger; Martha (Clayton) Nissley; Edna (the late Clyde) Weaver; Lois (Wes) Boyer; Florence: Cathy Denlinger Bock; Paulette (Bob) Campbell; Janet (Bill) Robinson. Finally, there are 34 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren who lay claim to their patriarch's affection. Preceding him in death are his wife of 58 years, Magdalena; and son-in-law Harold Miller.

Calling hours are Thursday, 2-4 & 6-8 PM at Hartville Conservative Mennonite Church. Funeral service is Friday, 10 AM in the church with Eugene Sommers officiating. Final resting place is Walnut Grove Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Hartville Conservative Mennonite Church.