It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Kaiya Elle Bontrager, 19, of Spencerville, Indiana, who passed away in a tragic vehicle accident on Tuesday, April 29, 2025. Kaiya was born in Orlando, Florida on September 25, 2005, and was excitedly welcomed via adoption into the Bontrager family just 48 hours later. A bright and compassionate soul, Kaiya was known for her infectious laughter, unwavering kindness, and genuine love for others. Kaiya attended Lakewood Park Christian School from Pre-K to 8th grade and completed her high school education via home school. She was employed at Raise Up for Christ Daycare in Harlan, Indiana where she loved teaching the 1–2 year-olds. Kaiya attended Central Ministries Church where she regularly served in the nursery, making families feel genuinely welcomed. She was active in her faith in Jesus and brought much joy to the lives of young and old. She was also an avid animal lover and always stopped to pet every dog and cat within her path.
Kaiya is survived by her parents, Kevin and Sherri Bontrager; brothers, Caedmon, Deacon, and Jaekon; sister, Luca; paternal grandparents, Jerry and Ruby Bontrager (Union, Michigan); and maternal grandmother, Clara Stoll (Woodburn, Indiana). Preceded in death by her maternal grandfather, Kenneth Stoll.
Visitation for Kaiya will be held from 3:30 pm to 8:00 pm on Monday, May 5, 2025, at Central Ministries Church, 5801 Schwartz Road, Fort Wayne, Indiana 46835. A funeral service will be held at 10:30 am on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, at the church. Burial to follow the service at Highland Park Cemetery. Contributions in Kaiya's memory may be made to Raise up for Christ Daycare or Central Ministries c/o Children’s Ministry, or Lakewood Park Christian School - Kaiya Bontrager Memorial Fund.
