Any student at Bethel College or member of the Newton and Hesston community has likely heard of Loren Reusser. Loren was known for attending Bethel College athletic events and cheering louder than anyone there. He would help lead the student section in cheers and keep the crowd alive by throwing them kettle corn. But even before his presence at games, he had a special life that touched many people.
Loren was a Kansas native who was born in Walton in 1932. Throughout his life he was known for his faith, servitude and energy. In June of 1954, Loren met the love of his life, Peggy Stout, and the two of them built a family together. Their marriage spanned 70 years. Whether through education or community service, Loren’s passion was serving others. He was first a professor at Hesston College. He then went on a missionary trip to Taiwan in 1966. After returning from serving overseas, he taught at Tabor College, Eastern Mennonite University and Bethel. Loren had a passion for helping young adults. He not only taught, but was a coach for cross country and track and field. He pushed his students to be the best they could be in sports and in the classroom.
Loren’s attitude, service and encouragement still has an impact on former athletes today. “Loren’s presence at athletic events, especially softball double headers, impacted both the fans in the crowd and the players on the field,” said Sydney DuVall, a Bethel alum and former softball player. “As an athlete, Loren’s unwavering support for us was felt at every home game. It made us feel as if we always had someone we had to show up and show out for. I am forever grateful to have met him and seen the impact he made on so many students.”
Loren was never one to stop moving. He eventually became a truck driver at the age of 54. He drove until the age of 86, when he decided to retire. Loren enjoyed the continuous moving and traveling that came along with truck driving. He demonstrated that it was never too late to pursue a new interest. Loren was a firm believer that showing faith was best done through action. He was a member of the Mennonite Central Committee, through which he provided service for the church and the community. Even after Peggy passed away in 2024, Loren’s passion for his community stayed strong. He passed away on July 17, 2026 at the age of 93.
There is a sign in memory of Loren and Peggy on the north play clock at Thresher Stadium. At each of the home contests this year, there will be memorabilia placed in honor of them. Loren’s stadium seats and megaphone will be placed in the spot that he usually sat during each game. There will also be kettle corn thrown into the crowd to keep his tradition going. The Bethel College community will ensure that no one will soon forget Loren and his legacy of passion and service.
“Loren was one of a kind,” said Tim Swartzendruber, Bethel’s Director of Athletics. “His enthusiasm for Bethel College was unmatched. His energy and passion for the college was contagious and he loved engaging with our students. Whether the Threshers were winning or losing, Loren was there to support. Loren and his wife Peggy established an endowed scholarship to reward students who show great spirit and support for the Threshers. This scholarship will keep Loren and Peggy’s legacy of support for Bethel College alive for many years. We will definitely miss him.”
Coaches could also observe the difference that Loren made. “Loren’s support at our athletic events was something truly special,” said Stacy Middleton, assistant softball coach and Assistant Athletic Director for Operations. “He was always enthusiastic, full of energy and ready to cheer on every kid. Loren didn’t just show up to watch the kids—he showed up for them. He encouraged them, celebrated them and made them feel special.”
Losing Loren Reusser impacted many, but as long as there are those to celebrate his memory, his accomplishments and the person he was will never be forgotten.
