Tim Bontrager, 12

Timothy Bontrager, age 12, of Vandalia, MI passed away Thursday, August 28, 2014 at his home, following a 9 year battle with leukemia. He was born in Shipshewana, IN on June 7, 2002, a son of Gary and Anna (Miller) Bontrager. Tim completed 5th grade, attending Eastside and Riverside Schools in Constantine. He was an animal lover and raised calves, rabbits and chickens. He enjoyed shopping at swap meets and buying animals.  Tim loved sports, especially baseball and football. He played Little League and was also the Constantine Varsity Basketball Team Manager. Tim was a friend to all, his positive and cheerful attitude was an inspiration to many.  
Tim is survived by his parents Gary and Anna Bontrager, siblings Justin, Anthony, Melissa, Caleb and Joshua Bontrager, all of Vandalia, grandparents Irvin & Mary Bontrager, Goshen, IN, Ada Miller, Shipshewana, IN, many aunts, uncles and cousins.  He was preceded in death by his grandfather Nelson L. Miller. Tim’s family would like to especially thank his caregiving “family” at the Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital in Grand Rapids for all their love and support. 
Relatives and friends will be received Friday 4-7 p.m. and Saturday 1-4 and 6-8 p.m. at River of Life Fellowship, 11162 SR 120, Middlebury, IN.  Services will be held Sunday at 2:00 PM at the church, Pastor David Garty officiating.  Interment will be at Grace Lawn Cemetery, Middlebury. Memorial contributions may be directed to the family to help with expenses. Online messages may be left at www.eleyfuneralhomes.com.