Michael James Croutch, 55, of Newville passed away peacefully at home on March 28, 2025 following a nine-year battle with a rare cancer. From the time of his diagnosis in 2016, Michael firmly believed “God’s got this.”

    He was born on June 8, 1969 to Thomas H. and Lucille M. (Martin) Croutch, the oldest of five living children.

    Michael attended Culbertson Mennonite School, Antrim Mennonite School, and American Correspondence School. Following his completion of schooling, he worked in agriculture for the first part of his adult life. Following that he worked as a self-employed over-the-road truck driver and then worked as a driver for other companies. Lastly,

    Michael worked for CEVA Logistics for more than ten years, first as a truck driver and then as operations supervisor. He was a long-time member of Blue Mountain Brethren in Christ Church in Newburg. He is the current mayor of Newville and previously had served on the Newville Borough Council.

    Michael is survived by his wife, Christine A. (Jones) Croutch, one son Kyle M. Croutch, and one daughter Kelvey M. (Croutch) Lugaro and her husband Xavier.

    In addition to his parents Michael is survived by a sister Judith L. (Croutch) Beachy and husband Jason, brother Jason D. Croutch and wife Gloria, brother Ethan M. Croutch, and sister Lydia R. (Croutch) Beiler and husband Vincent, as well as nieces and nephews.

    He was preceded in death by a brother, Jonathan P. Croutch.

    Visitation will be held Wednesday, April 2, 2025 from 4-6 P.M. and 7-9 P.M. at Blue Mountain Brethren in Christ Church 215 Taber Road, Newburg, PA 17240. A memorial service will be held on Thursday, April 3 at 10 A.M. at the church.