The estate of Gunther Henry Schmitt, a physician and radiologist from San Bernardino, Calif., has given $4.7 million to the MB Foundation to benefit nine organizations and ministries.

The earnings from approximately $1 million will benefit Tabor College. The money will endow the Center for Mennonite Brethren Studies, the $2,500 annual Clarence Hiebert Excellence in Teaching Award, and future programs in graduate theological training. The gift is expected to raise approximately $50,000 a year to support these areas.

Schmitt was the grandson and son of missionaries to Indonesia, where he was born in 1931. His family later moved to Reedley. He received all of his education in California.

Schmitt died Aug. 2, 2010. He had no children. His desire was that his estate would benefit the Mennonite Brethren.

“Schmitt’s legacy, as he had no children of his own, will be fulfilled on the Tabor campus,” said college president Dr. Jules Glanzer. “He will undoubtedly be remembered as a great and generous supporter of the mission of the school.”

MB Foundation provides gift and estate planning services on behalf of Tabor College.