Max Ahlgrim

   Max Ahlgrim, a pioneer settler on the old Kankakee river marsh, and one of the few remaining sportsmen of that period of the old Kankakee when it was a haven for wild life, died at his home at Ahlgrim Park, near Shelby, Thursday morning, October 29, 1933.

   Mr. Ahlgrim was a familiar figure to this whole section, coming to what was known as the Thayer landing on a flat boat from Momence 61 years ago.  With him was his bride and on the banks of the river near that spot they have since resided.  In the old days Mr. Ahlgrim was engaged in the lumber business, and in trapping fur, and guiding for the "city" hunters who came to the marsh country to hunt ducks and geese, and to fish.

   A 60th anniversary celebration was held to honor of the couple last year, at which time several hundred were present.

   Mr. Ahlgrim has a group of cottages at Ahlgrim Park, and also furnished boats for fishermen.  He had hundreds of friends among mid-west sportsmen.

   Funeral services were held Sunday.  He is survived by his wife, five sons and five daughters.  The cause of death was attributed to a bladder affliction and to his advanced age.

Raymond Armstrong

   Raymond Armstrong, 56, Griffith, formerly of Lincoln Township, died November 7, at Our Lady of Mercy Hospital, Dyer.

   He was retired from the Budd Company following 26 years of service.

   Survivors include two sons, Ray L. and Ricky Armstrong, Griffith, two daughters, Candy (Garry) Evans and Raylene Armstrong, Griffith and three grandchildren.

   Also surviving are six brothers, Clarence Armstrong, Illinois; Don Armstrong, Hammond, Bill and Jerry Armstrong, Lake Village, and Joe and Larry Flachsenberger, Lincoln Township; and three sisters, Jeanetta Tuttle, DeMotte, and Thelma Smith and Julia Junglas, Lincoln Township.

   He was preceded in death by his wife, Patricia, in 1983 and one daughter, Cathy, in 1982.

   Funeral services took place Friday, November 11 at the Griffith Bible Baptist Church.  Burial was in Westville Cemetery, Westville, Indiana

   (Morocco Courier, November 17, 1983)

Lydia K. Atkinson

   Lydia K. Atkinson, 75, of Roselawn, Indiana passed away on Wednesday, June 16, 2004.  She is survived by her husband, William, two sons, David (Kim) Atkinson of Roselawn and Bill (Blaise) Atkinson of West Palm Beach, Florida, one daughter, Ann (Ron) LaCosse of Lafayette, Indiana 13 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren; one brother, John Knapp of Roselawn: two sisters, Zenat Schissler of Louisville, Kentucky, Freida and other relatives of Austria; numerous nieces and nephews.

   Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, June 19, 2004 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Augusta Catholic Church in Lake Village, Indiana, Father John Cummings officiating.   Burial will follow at Roselawn Cemetery in Roselawn, Indiana. Friends are invited to call on Friday from 3 to 8 p.m. at the Sheets Funeral Home, 604 E. Commercial Ave., Lowell, Indiana.  Lydia was a member of St. Augusta Catholic Church in Lake Village, Indiana; The Roselawn Library Board and Building Fund; the Newton County Sheriffs Office Community Policing Program and Birthright of Rensselaer.  She was a columnist with the Kankakee Valley Post News writing the “Lincoln Township News.”  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Newton County Policing Program; Birthright of Rensselaer or Roselawn Library Board and Building Fund.

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Aggie B. Bailey

   Mrs. Aggie B. Bailey, 98, former Morocco resident, died at 5:50 a.m. Tuesday in Sheldon Residence Home, Sheldon, Illinois, where she had resided since 1965.

   Born at Roselawn, she spent most of her life in that area and lived at Morocco 25 years before entering the nursing facility.

   Mrs. Bailey was a member of Morocco United Brethren Church.

   Surviving are four sons, Oscar Bailey of Toulon, Illinois, Charles Bailey of Brook, Chester Bailey of Carriers Mills, Illinois, and Paul Bailey of Brookston; six daughters, Mrs. Maude Golden of Manito, Illinois, Mrs. Flora Iliff, Mrs. Stella Rainford and Mrs. Hettie Abbott, all of Lake Village, Mrs. Ethel Harsha of Rensselaer and Mrs. Pauline Long of Brook and a number of grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.  Two sons, three brothers, and one sister preceded her in death.

   Funeral services were held Thursday at the Weston-Gerts Funeral Home with Rev. Robert Davis and Pastor Rex James officiating.  Burial was in Roselawn Cemetery.

   (The Brook Reporter, April 23, 1981)

Charles D. Bailey

   Charles D. Bailey, 92, a resident of Brook since 1960 and a former resident of Rensselaer, died at 10:55 p.m. Tuesday, March 21, 2006, at Jasper County Hospital in Rensselaer.

   He was born February 7, 1914, in Manaton, Illinois.

   He attended Mt. Ayr High School, graduating in 1933.

   On July 29, 1945, he married Lois Christenson in Kentland.  She preceded him in death January 23, 2005, in Brook.

   Mr. Bailey served in the Army Air Corp. from 1941 to 1945.

   He was a retired farmer.  He also worked as a truck driver, spreading chemicals for Wilson Fertilizer in Brook for 20 years.

   He was a member of Brook United Methodist Church and the Iroquois Conservation Club and a 58-year member of the American Legion Brook Post #364.

   Survivors include: two daughters, Charlene A. Spurlock (husband Ernie) of Lafayette and Linda L. Ingold (husband Stephen) of Goodland; three sons, Charles L. Bailey (wife Patricia) of Brook, Douglas G. Bailey (wife Jackie) of Brook and James R. Bailey of Brook; three sisters, Stella Rainford of Clinton, Illinois, Hettie Abbott of Thayer, Mo., and Pauline Garmong (husband Dick) of Morocco; one brother, Paul Bailey of Monticello; seven grandchildren; two step-grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.

   He was preceded in death by his parents, Perry O. and Aggie B. (Cox) Bailey, two brothers, three sisters and one great-grandson.

    Visitation was from 6 to 8 p.m. March 23 at Gerts Funeral Home in Brook.

   Funeral services were at 11 a.m. March 24 at Gerts Funeral Home in Brook with the Rev. Sue Beckett officiating.

   Burial was in Riverside Cemetery in Brook.

   Memorial contributions may be made to American Legion Post # 364.

   (The Morocco Courier, March 28, 2006)

Charles Baker

     Charles Baker aged 77, died suddenly Monday evening of heart failure.  The deceased had been a resident here for many years, being one of the settlers.  The services were held Wednesday at the M. E. Church, conducted by Rev. Asa McDaniel of the Rensselaer Christian Church.

     (Kankakee Valley Review, June 30^th 1916)

Jonas Bakker

   Jonas Bakker was born in Holland May 26, 1864 and died at the house of his sister, Mrs. Peter DeVries Monday evening, December 18, 1916 aged 52 years, 6 months.  The funeral services were held at the Holland Church and burial at the Holland Cemetery.  Funeral conducted by Rev. Swart.

   (Kankakee Valley Review, December 23, 1916)

Rev. Timothy H. Ball

      Rev. Timothy H. Ball Passes Away. Many people, especially in this vicinity will regret to learn of the death of Rev. Timothy H. Ball of Crown Point, age 90, who died last week in Sheffield, Alabama, where he had gone to spend the winter. His people were the first settlers in Lake County in the year 1830. He was a writer, historian and poet, and was the founder of the Lake County Historical Society and a distant relation of George Washington. He was a very pleasant man to meet.

   (Kankakee Valley Review November 21, 1913)

Mervin F. Barkey

   Mervin F. Barkey, 80, of Macy, Indiana passed away on Tuesday, September 17, 2002, at his residence.

   He was born November 22, 1921 in Roselawn to John and Martha (Klinski) Barkey.

   He had lived in Macy since 1989.  He had also lived in Lake Village.

   He married Berniece "Bee" Hull on November 4, 1972 in Carmel, Indiana. She survives.

   A Lowell High School graduate with the class of 1939, he attended several trade schools before joining the military in 1942.

   He was a retired master mechanic with the Operating Engineers #150 for over 50 years.

   He served in the U.S. Air Force from 1942-45.  He served as a sergeant in World War II, was a P.O.W. and a Purple Heart recipient.

   He was a member of the VFW Post #4353, American Legion Post #238, and the Disabled Veterans Association.

   Besides his wife, he is survived by a son, Ray (Lynn) Barkey of Lake Village, a daughter, Alma (Bob) Messman of Rensselaer; step-children Barbara (Charles) Hobbs of Ft. Myers, Florida and Chuck (Marcia) Bracken of Indianapolis; six grandchildren; on great-grandchild; and a sister, Etha Schreiber of Cedar Lake.

   He was preceded in death by his parents, two sisters and six brothers.

   Friends may call the Jackson Funeral Chapel in Rensselaer on Friday, September 20 at 12 p.m., with Pastor Bruce Russell officiating.

   Burial will follow at the Roselawn Cemetery.

   Those who wish to contribute to the Fulton Baptist Temple may do so by procuring the proper envelope at the Jackson Funeral Chapel.

   (September 19, 2002)

Dolores T. Biggs

   Dolores T. Biggs, 63, of DeMotte passed away Tuesday, October 11, 1994, at St. Anthony Medical Center in Crown Point.

   She was born May 28, 1931, in Chicago to Anton John and Genevieve L. (Kawczyhski) Augustyn, both of whom are deceased.

   She married Charles Russell Biggs on May 28, 1950 in Cicero, Illinois and he survives.

   She is a 1949 graduate of Morton High School.  She owned and operated Little Augies in Roselawn, opening in 1977.

   She was a member of St. Augusta Catholic Church of Lake Village and the American Legion Ladies Auxiliary Post 238 in Roselawn.

   In addition to her husband she is survived by three daughters, Mrs. Linda (Edward) Erway and Mrs. Fanny (Devon) Clark of Roselawn and Mrs. Cathy (Alan) Denton of Naples, Florida; one son, Charles E. Biggs of DeMotte; 13 grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; two sisters, Mrs. Dorothy (George) Decker of Cicero and Mrs. Rita (Andrew) Procek of Coal Valley, Illinois and one brother, Robert (Sharon) Augustyn of Cicero.

   Friends may call Thursday, October 13, from 2 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Jackson Funeral Service in DeMotte.

   Funeral services will be held Friday, October 14, 10:30 a.m. at the Jackson Funeral Service in DeMotte.  Fr. Mike McKinley will officiate.

   Interment will follow at the Roselawn Cemetery.

   (The Republican October 12, 1994)

Polly Biggs

   Shelby- Mrs. Polly Biggs was born May 23, 1843 and died February 4, 1915. Mrs. Biggs who was Miss Polly Nottingham was born in Lafayette and lived there until she was 22 years of age when she was married to Elizur Biggs. To this union were born 2 daughters, Ruth and Amanda. One daughter and Mr. Biggs preceded her to the great beyond.

   Mr. & Mrs. Biggs lived in this community for a great many years and were generally respected by all who knew them. Mrs. Biggs leaves to mourn her death one daughter, Ruth Bierly, and five grandchildren and three sisters, Mrs. Susan Luchene of Michigan, Mrs. Sarah Luchene of Hammond, and Mrs. Ruth Cyphers of Thayer.

   (From the Kankakee Valley Review February 8, 1915)

Virginia D. Biggs

    Virginia D. Biggs, age 74, of DeMotte, died at Porter Memorial Hospital at Valparaiso at 4: 35 a.m. Sunday

   She was born in Chicago November 15, 1908, and came to the DeMotte area 36 years ago.  She was married November 5, 1926 to John Leo Biggs, who preceded her in death.

   She was a housewife, and a member of Saint Michael’s Lutheran Church at Hebron.

   Survivors include a son, Charles (Delores) Biggs, of Roselawn, and a daughter Virginia Lee Biggs of DeMotte.  Also surviving are two sisters; Ruth Mongeau, Arlington Heights, Illinois and Yvonne (Mrs. John) O’Brien, Elmira, Oregon.

   She was preceded in death by her husband and one son.

   Also surviving are nine grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.

   Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m., Wednesday, at the Todd-Hughes Funeral Home in DeMotte with Pastor William Timmer officiating.  Interments will follow at DeMotte Cemetery.

   Friends may call at the funeral home from 2 to 9 p.m. Tuesday.

  (From The Republican, Rensselaer, July 5, l983)

Deloris A. (Bruechet) Blasco

   Deloris A. Blasco, 69, of Rt. L, Lake Village, died Monday, April 6, 1992 at 12:06 p.m. at her residence. 

   Born August 30, 1922, in Newton County, she was the daughter of Arthur and Flo (Hixson) Bruechet.

   A lifetime area resident she was a graduate of Mount Ayr High School.

   She was a homemaker and a member of the Roselawn United Methodist Church

   In September of 1946 in Chicago she married Joseph Blasco, who preceded her in death in December 27, 1984.

Surviving are four sons, Paul Cyphers of Anaheim, California, John (Kathy) Blasco of Orlando, Florida, Andy Blasco of Lake Village, and Joe (Bev) Blasco of Fort Wayne and 12 grandchildren.

   One brother preceded her in death.

   Visitation is scheduled for 2:00 p.m. to 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Thursday, April 9 at the Todd-Steinke Funeral Home in DeMotte.

   Funeral services will take place on Friday, April 10 at 10:30 a.m. at the funeral home with Rev. Ken Brown officiating.

   Burial will follow in the Roselawn Cemetery.

Joseph E. Blasco

   Joseph E. Blasco, 65, of Lake Village, died at 4:10 a.m. Thursday at Jasper County Hospital.

   He was born in Ironwood, Michigan on April 21, 1919, the son of John K. Blascskevics and Maria M. Blascskevics.  He was a resident of Lake Village for 36 years, coming there from Chicago.

   He was married on October 4, 1946 in Chicago to Dolores Bruechet, who survives.  He was a self-employed truck driver.  He was a World War II veteran and a member of the Roselawn American Legion Post No. 238.

    Survivors include four sons, Paul Blasco of Anaheim, California, John Blasco of Orlando, Florida, Andy Blasco of Lake Village, Joe Blasco of Fort Wayne; on brother, Julius Blasco of Coldwater, Michigan; two sisters Ann of Wisconsin, Gertrude of Ohio; and 10 grandchildren.

   Friends may call from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. today at the Todd-Hughes Funeral Home in DeMotte.  The funeral is at 1 p.m. Saturday the Todd-Hughes Funeral Home with the Rev. Richard M. Thornton officiating.  Burial will follow at Roselawn Cemetery.

Carroll William Boswinkle

   Carroll William Boswinkle, 20, son of Mr. and Mrs. Robert W. Boswinkle of Roselawn was killed Saturday as a plane engaging in a simulated strafing attack crashed after colliding with a landing craft boat in the Chesapeake Bay.  The news was received by the parents Monday as they were to attend the funeral services for Mr. Boswinkle's mother.

   The body will be returned to Roselawn by the midshipmen from the Naval Academy where the popular young man was stationed.  The body will lie in state at the Sheets funeral home in Lowell until it is taken to Thayer for funeral services at the church Saturday at 2 p.m. Burial will be made in the Weston cemetery at Rensselaer.  Others killed in the accident were the pilot of the plane, a member of the woman's naval reserve, who was a passenger in the plane and another midshipman.

   Survivors include the parents, one brother, Robert, who is in the Army doing research work and a younger sister, Winnie Lou, at home.

   He had a fine record.  He entered the Great Lakes training station in April of 1943 to receive boot training. From the list of several thousand applicants he was chosen as one of 35 to take the test to attend preparatory school and out of this group but 25 passed the test and only 15 were selected to take the preparatory course at Bainbridge, Maryland.  Boswinkle was one of the 800 selected from the navy and Marine Corps for this honor and studied at Bainbridge for about 8 months before taking the U.S. Naval Academy entrance examination. He was in a group of 200 with the highest averages to get the appointment and ranked 81st in the group and was sworn in as a midshipman on June 12, 1944.  Due to war conditions he was to receive four years of training in three years at Annapolis.

   Carroll was a graduate of the Mt. Ayr high school where he was very popular with his fellow students.  He was also prominent as a basketball player.  He attended Purdue University one year before entering the service.

Linda K. Bowman

   Lisa K. Bowman, 18, Lincoln Township, died November 8 at St. Joseph Medical Center, South Bend.

   A 1983 graduate of North Newton High School, she was a member of the Shelby Church of Christ.

   She is survived by her parents, Dale and Leona Bowman, Lincoln Township; two brothers, Dale Alan Bowman, Lincoln Township and Jeffrey Bowman, at home; maternal grandparents, Melvin and Tressie Strickhorn, Shelby; and paternal grandmother, Goldie Hoffman, Schneider.

   Funeral services took place Friday, November 11 from the Sheets Funeral Home, Lowell, with Pastor Don Wilson officiating.  Burial was in the Roselawn Cemetery.

   Expressions of sympathy may take the form of memorials to the St. Joseph Medical Center Cystic Fibrosis Clinic.

   (Morocco Courier, November 17, 1983)

Donald L. Bruechet

   Donald Lawson Bruechet, 49, R.R. 1, Lake Village, died at Our Lady of Mercy Hospital in Dyer at 4:37 a.m., Tuesday.  He had been in ill health for four years and seriously ill four days.

    Mr. Bruechet was born in DeMotte, September 7, 1920, the son of Arthur and Flora (Hixson) Bruechet.  He was married in Rensselaer, October 30, 1939, to Mary Shelhart, who survives.

   He was employed as a farmer and operating engineer for Local No. 150.

   Surviving besides the widow, are his mother of Rensselaer; three daughters, Mrs. Warren (Joanne) Swart of DeMotte, Mrs. Duane (Bonita) Jansen stationed with her husband with the U.S. Army in Germany, and Mrs. Norman (Patricia) Brown of Oscoda, Michigan; one son, Donald Lee of Colfax, Washington; one sister, Mrs. Delores Blasco of Lake Village; and seven grandchildren.  One son preceded him in death.

    Funeral services will be held from the Todd Funeral Home at 11 a.m., Friday, July 3, with the Rev. Leland Schwarz officiating.  Burial will be in the Roselawn Cemetery.

   Friends may call at Todd’s after 2 p.m. Thursday

    (The date of his death, June 30, 1970).

Donald Lee Bruechet

     Donald Lee Bruechet, age 28, of Rural Lake Village died Saturday, June 26, 1971 in Our Lady of Mercy Hospital in Dyer, Indiana.

   Donald had been a patient there since May 9^th.  While riding on a tractor a gun he was carrying discharged accidentally.

    Donald Lee was born May 3^rd, 1943 in Indiana to Donald and Mary (Shelhart) Bruechet, Sr.  He was employed by DeKock Supply Co. as a mechanic.  While being a lifetime resident of the area he served 3 years in the Army and served in the Korean conflict.

    On February 5, 1965, Donald married Patsye Sterwick, who survives.  They had a son Richard Daniel (3 yrs.) who also survives.  Other survivors are his mother Mary (Shelhart) Bruechet, Sr., 3 sisters, Mrs. Jo Ann Swart of DeMotte, Mrs. Bonnie Jansen of Wurzburg, Germany, and Mrs. Pat Brown of Lake Village.  Also he had 3 nephews and 4 nieces.  He was preceded in death by his father in 1970 and brother in 1966.  Paternal grandparents are, Mrs. Theo Turner of Rensselaer, maternal grandparents Mr. and Mrs. Melvin Shelhart of Thayer.

    Funeral services were conducted at the Sheets Funeral Home in Lowell, Tuesday, June 29 at 11 a.m.  Rev. Richard Gongwer in charge, with burial in Roselawn Cemetery.

George C.A. Bryant

   The funeral services of the late George C.A. Bryant of Lake Village occurred Monday. Interment at Momence, Illinois.

   (Kankakee Valley Review December 27, 1917)

I. W. Burton

   An old resident passes to the great beyond.  I. W. Burton, well known as “Wid,” for years the well known proprietor of the Blue Grass summer resort on the Kankakee River,

died Tuesday, May 30, 1916 after several months’ illness. His age was 68 years last September 9th.  The funeral services were held at the home at 2 o’clock, Thursday.  Interment in the Roselawn Cemetery.

   ( Kankakee Valley Review, June 8, 1916.)

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Jack Allen Call

   Jack Allen Call, 41, of Roselawn, died at 1:50 a.m. Sunday July 29, 1990 after being struck by a train in Thayer.

   Born October, 26, 1948, in Lowell, he was the son of Raymond M. Call of Medaryville and Myrtle Worley, of Roselawn,

   A lifetime resident of Roselawn, he was educated in the Lincoln Schools and was a construction laborer.

   Surviving in addition to his parents are two sons, Jack and Jeffrey Call of Lake Village; two daughters, Patty Siedenoph of Lake Village and Mrs. Jerry (Annette) Crouch of DeMotte; five brothers, Raymond of Wheatfield, Ron of Fair Oaks, Gary of Shelby, Larry of Slater, Missouri, and Steve of Momence; two sisters, Mrs. Willie (Sherrie) Cunningham of Rensselaer, Mrs. Melvin (Judy) Robinson, of Wheatfield; 26 nieces and nephews and 12 great nieces and nephews.

   Friends may call at the Todd-Steinke Funeral Home in DeMotte; Tuesday, July 31 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Services will take place at the funeral home at 2 p.m. Wednesday August 1, with the Rev. Barry Gaudine officiating.

   Burial will follow in the Fair Oaks Cemetery.

   Memorials may be made to the family

Raymond M. Call

   Raymond M. Call, 77, of Wheatfield passed away on Tuesday, January 24, 1995, at Porter Memorial Hospital in Valparaiso.

   Born in Roselawn to Fred and Pearl (Reams) Call, Mr. Call was a lifetime resident of the area.  He was educated in Newton County Public Schools.

   Mr. Call was employed as a truck driver and construction laborer all of his working life.  A veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps during World War II, he was a member of the American Legion #406 of Wheatfield.

   Surviving are five sons, Raymond (Cecelia) Call of Wheatfield, Ron (Rosalin) Call of Fair Oaks, Gary (Marilyn) Call of Shelby, Larry Call of Doniphan, Missouri, and Steve Call of Momence, two daughters, Diane Sue (Melvin) Robinson of Wheatfield and Sherry (Willis) Cunningham of Brookston; one brother Clyde (Lee) Call of Sun City, Arizona, 30 grandchildren and 26 great-grandchildren.

   Mr. Call was preceded in death by his parents, one son, Jack Call, one granddaughter, and two brothers.

   Visitation will be held from 5-8 p.m. on Wednesday, January 26 at the Steinke Funeral Home, KV Chapel in Sculley Square.  The funeral service will be held there at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, January 26, 1995, with Rev. Dean Tanner presiding. Interment will follow in the Fair Oaks Cemetery.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the family.

   (The Rensselaer Republican, January 25, 1993)

Ann C. Carpenter

   Ann C. Carpenter, 50, of Fair Oaks passed away Thursday evening, September 16, 1993, at the Jasper County Hospital.

   She was born December 23, 1942, in Illinois to Birchie "B.C." and Helen (Helpin) Alexander, both of whom are deceased.

   She was a 1959 graduate of Mount Ayr High School and was a lifetime area resident.

   On May 32, 1975, in Roselawn she married Bill Carpenter and he survives.

   She worked as a real estate agent for Coldwell Banker in Crown Point.

   She and her husband formerly ran Dunromin Ranch lawn and garden center.

   She was also the founder of the Airport Indiana organization.

   Surviving with her husband are her children, Lenore Harmon of Manassas, Virginia, Ronnie (Marla) Watts of Fair Oaks, Missy (Jerry) Prenell of Bloomfield, Indiana, Jeanne Dunn of Fair Oaks, John Watts at home and Willie and Joey Carpenter also at home; also six grandsons, two brothers and two sisters.

   She was preceded in death by her parents; one son,  Richard, and one brother.

   Friends may call on Saturday, September 18, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Lang Funeral Home in Morocco.

   Burial will follow in the Roselawn Cemetery.

   Those who wish to contribute to the Salvation Army may do so by procuring the proper envelope at the funeral home.

   (The Republican, September 18, 1993)

Ray Casey

   Ray Casey, 77, was born to George and Susan Casey in Barkley township, Jasper County on May 29, 1890, and passed away unexpectedly, March 4, at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Tay Studer, in Shelby where he and his wife had been staying for a month on account of her illness.

   When a small boy, his family moved to Fair Oaks and at the age of 14 he went to work as a water boy on a section of the Monon and worked as section foreman until his retirement a few years ago.  In 1911, he married Hazel Helsel of Fair Oaks and later they moved to Kirklin, until 1938 when they moved to Thayer.  His wife died in 1941.  They had six children; four girls, Mrs. John (LaVore) Hill of Brook, Mrs. Ray (Etoil) Bricker of Momence, Illinois, Mrs. Gordon (Marilyn) Sipe of Kouts, and Mrs. Tay (Eillene) Studer of Shelby; and two sons, Cletus Casey, who died in 1963 (he lived in California) and Cloyd Casey of Mount Sereno, California..

   In 1942, Ray married Mrs. Ida (Cox) Hanley of Thayer.  They celebrated their 25^th wedding anniversary November 35, 1967, and had lived in Thayer since they were married.  His stepchildren are Clyde and Bob Hanley of Fair Oaks, rural route, Jim Hanley of Lowell, George Hanley of DeMotte, rural route, Dick Hanley of DeMotte

William Hanley of Valparaiso, Mrs. Russel (Audrey) Collins of Kentland, Mrs. Albert (Helen) Dunn of Posen, Illinois, Mrs. Verda Belle Black and Mrs. Ralph (Nila Jean) Drenski of Lowell and Mrs. Franklin (Virginia) Cyphers of Bradenton, Florida.

   Also surviving with the widow, Ida, are two sisters, Mrs. Ethel Crawford of Rensselaer and Mrs. Bertha Holly of Leesburg, Florida, 53 grandchildren and 63 great-grandchildren.

   Funeral services were held at Sheets Funeral Home in Lowell, March 7, with the Rev. William Dunkelberger officiating.  Burial was in Fair Oaks cemetery.

   The pallbearers were Everett Bozell of Fair Oaks, Andrew Schissler, Nick Sudiekis, Tom David, Rex Binge and Tony Hein of Thayer and Shelby vicinity.

Kathryn Chilton

   Kathryn M (Hixson) Grevenstuk Chilton, 63, of Kernersville, North Carolina, and formerly of DeMotte, died at 8:54 a.m. Friday at Wesley Long Community Hospital in Greensborough, North Carolina.

   The daughter of Raymond Hixson and Mabel Granger (both deceased), she was born October 13, 1925, in Roselawn, Indiana.  She was an area resident of Kernersville, North Carolina since 1983, moving from DeMotte.

   She was married June 6, 1941, in DeMotte, to Gerrit Grevenstuk, who passed away in 1974.  She was remarried in September 1967, to Herbert Chilton, who survives.

   She was educated at Newton County Public Schools and was employed as a bookkeeper for J. B. Wolfe Construction.

   She was a member of the Christ United Methodist Church in Greensborough, North Carolina and a former member of the First Reformed Church of DeMotte.

   Survivors include two daughters, Mrs. Richard (Elaine) Ross of Greensborough, North Carolina; Mrs. Cliff (Melodie) Cross of Charlotte, Michigan; three sons, David Grevenstuk of DeMotte; George Grevenstuk of Holland, Michigan; Jeffrey Grevenstuk of Hammond: two brothers, Raymond C. Hixson of Sunman, Indiana, and Jack M. Hixson of DeMotte.  She had eight grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

   Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday at the Todd-Cooprider Funeral Home in DeMotte, with the Rev. Morris Tysen and Rev. Tim Dieffenbach officiating.  Burial will follow in Holland Cemetery in DeMotte.

   Friends may call from 3 to 5 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m. Monday at the Todd-Cooprider Funeral Home.

   Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society.

   (The Republican, January 16, 1989)

Chuck Chorzempa

   Charles “Chuck” Samuel Chorzempa, age 78, of Lake Village passed away September 15, 2005 at St. Anthony Medical Center in Crown Point.  He was born July 4, 1927 in Chicago, Illinois, the son of Josephine Evelyn (Lawson) and Charles Paul Chorzempa.

   Visitation was Sunday, September 18, 2005 at Jackson Funeral Service in DeMotte.  Services were Monday, September 19, 2005 at the chapel.  Burial was at Roselawn Cemetery.

Annie Maria Christenson

   Annie Maria Christenson was born in Denmark, August 5, 1818. Her maiden name was Peterson. Annie the subject of this sketch united with the Lutheran Church at the early age of fourteen years and has ever been a faithful follower of the same.

   She was united in marriage to Chris Christenson in 1840. To this union nine children, three sons and six daughters for whose comfort and happiness she considered no sacrifice too great.

   Her last illness was of short duration, only about ten days. She died at the home of her son, Julius Christenson, in Lake Township, Newton County, Indiana, March 6, 1903 aged 85 years 6 months 5 days, with a bright prospect of meeting her husband and two children, who had preceded her to the better home.

   She leaves seven children, two sons and five daughters, fifty-four grandchildren, forty-seven great grandchildren and many friends to mourn her departure. Appropriate funeral services were conducted by the Rev. C.R. Ball at the home of her son, at one o’clock p.m. Sunday, March 8, 1903, after which her remains were borne to the Lake Village Cemetery and carefully laid to rest to await the resurrection morn.

   (Kankakee Valley Review March 15, 1903)

Olif Clark

   Olif Clark was born in Shorne, Kent County, England, January 16, 1839, and died at the residence of her daughter, Mrs. Ernest Leeson, of Roselawn, Newton County, Indiana, July 19, 1902 aged 63 years, 6 months and 2 days.  She came to Rose Lawn about six years ago and as resided with her daughter until the angel of death summoned her to her eternal home.  She leaves two daughters, Mrs. D. Leeson and Mrs. I. McLean in England, to mourn the loss of a kind and loving mother.  The funeral services, which were largely attended, were held at the residence of Dr. Leeson, Saturday afternoon at 2 o’clock.  Rev. James O. May, of Evanston, Illinois, officiated.  Interment took place in the Rose Lawn cemetery.

   (From Thayer-Shelby News July 20, 1902)

Walter B. Cox

   Walter B. Cox, 77, of Roselawn, died at St. Anthony's Home in Crown Point at 2:25 a.m. Wednesday, September 12, after an illness of one year.

   Born in Roselawn on December 22, 1912, he was the son of John S. and Minnie (Brownfield) Cox, who are both deceased.

   A resident of Roselawn all of his life, he married Nancy Smith on January 20, 1941, and she survives.

   He was educated at Lincoln School and was a mill truck driver for L.T.V. Steel Co. for 26 1/2 years, retiring in 1977 and was of the Methodist faith.

   Surviving in addition to his wife, are three sons, Wayne L. Cox of Luray, Mississippi, Larry A. Cox of Momence, Illinois and Jerry A. Cox of Roselawn; three daughters Mrs. Steve (Linda) Douglas, of Mesa, Arizona, Mrs. Ted (Shirley) Hoover of Rockville, Indiana and Connie Cox, at home; two brothers, Jesse Cox, of San Pierre and Chester Cox of Rensselaer; one sister, Pearl Latta of Goodland; and 10 grandchildren.

   He was preceded in death by one son, two daughters, and several brothers and sisters.

   Friends may call at the Todd-Steinke Funeral Home of DeMotte from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Thursday, September 13.

   Services will be conducted at 10:30 a.m. Friday, September 14, at the funeral home with the Rev. Ken Brown officiating. 

   Burial will follow at the Roselawn Cemetery.

   (The Republican, September 13, 1990)

Audrey Collins Crawford

   Audrey M. Collins Crawford, died October 2 at 10:45 p.m. at the George Ade Memorial Extended Care Unit.

   A homemaker, she was a lifelong resident of Kentland.

   She married Russell Collins, Sr. on November 1, 1930.  He passed away in 1971.  She married Lynn Crawford of Kentland on September 18, 1986 and he survives.

   She was a member of the Golden Rod Chapter of the Eastern Star and a 50-year member of the Northwest Homemaker's Club.

   Surviving in addition to her husband is one son, Russell Collins Jr. of Kentland and Betty Studer of Rensselaer; two step-daughters, Joan Gilmore, of Fair Oaks and Jean Zea of Crown Point; four brothers, Bill Hanley of Valparaiso, Dick Hanley of DeMotte, George Hanley of Thayer and Bob Hanley of Nashville, Indiana.

   Also surviving are four sisters, Helen Dunn, of Posen, Illinois, Verda Nelson of Orlando, Florida, Virginia Cyphers of Bradenton, Florida, and Nila Bell of Lowell; 13 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren.

   She was preceded in death by three brothers and one sister.

   Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. October 5 at the Covenant Federated Church of Kentland with the Dr. Richard Moore officiating.

   Burial will follow in the Fairlawn Cemetery of Kentland.

   (October, 1989)

Arvesta (Cox) Criswell

   Arvesta Criswell 75, Thayer, passed away Monday at the Kettering Medical

Center in Kettering, Ohio

   A native of Newton County, she was the daughter of John and Hannah (Brownfield)                        Cox, both of whom preceded her in death.

   Born on November 2, 1909, she had been a lifelong area resident.

   She was married on April 22, 1928, in Kentland to Edward “Shorty” Criswell, who preceded her in death in September 1980.

   She was a member of the American Legion Auxiliary Post No. 238 in Roselawn.

   Survivors include four daughters, Doris (Mrs. Irvin) Bitting of DeMotte, Edith (Mrs. Carlyn) Henry of Roselawn, Audrey (Mrs. John) Hutchinson of Dayton, Ohio, and Esther (Mrs. Ralph) Oxley of Kettering, Ohio; two sons, Russell Criswell of Kettering and Wilbur Criswell of Fair Oaks; two sisters, Mary Campbell of Hammond and Pearl Latta of Goodland; three brothers, Walter Cox of Roselawn, Chester Cox of Hammond, and Jesse Cox of San Pierre; 24 grand children 18 great-grandchildren and one foster great-grandchild.

    The funeral will be held at 1 p.m. Friday at the Todd-Hughes Funeral Home in DeMotte with Rev. Donald Hicks officiating.  Burial will follow at the Roselawn Cemetery.

    Friends may call from 2 to 9 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home.

   (Obituary dated Wednesday, June 5, 1985)

Paul Cyphers

     Paul Cyphers was born in Starke County, Ohio, December 28, 1848, died in Gary,

Indiana June 1, 1915 aged 72 years, 5 months, 8 days.  When but a small boy his parents moved to near Momence, Illinois where he lived until 25 years of age.  He married Ruth Nottingham of Morocco on October 7, 1870, making their new home at Muskegon,

Michigan, where he worked at the carpenter trade for a number of years.  The last 30 years of his life has been spent at Thayer and vicinity.  To them were born eight children, Vernon, Jacob, Mattie, Francis, Bertha, Myrtle, Elmer and Albon.  Myrtle and Albon died in infancy.  Besides the widow and children he leaves 7 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren, and a host who knew him to mourn his departure.  The funeral was held Sunday at the Thayer church conducted by Frederick E. Walton—the male quartet from the First Presbyterian church of Gary, sang.  The burial was at the Roselawn Cemetery.

   (Kankakee Valley Review, June 8, 1915)

Paul Cyphers

   Paul Cyphers, of Thayer, was fatally injured, and Tom Spitler, also of Thayer, was severely injured on Sunday evening when the roadster in which they were riding with Floyd Turner and Francis "Spiff" Cyphers turned over at the Vincent Eisele corner 8 miles west of Rensselaer.

   Paul Cyphers was crushed and suffered internal injuries and died 4 hours after being taken to the hospital at Rensselaer.  Spitler suffered serious injuries but is expected to recover.  The young man suffered a compound fracture of the tibia and fibula of the left leg, and a probable fracture of the shoulder, badly cut scalp and a deep wound on the right knee.  Francis "Spiff" Cyphers and Turner were only slightly bruised.

   The four young men had gone to Rensselaer from Thayer to visit Eugene Pritchard who was at the county hospital.  After leaving the hospital they attended a show at Rensselaer and about 11 o'clock started home.  As they left Rensselaer, Paul Cyphers was driving but Turner asked to be given the wheel, so the two young men changed seats, Paul Cyphers climbing into the rumble seat of the roadster with Spitler.

   The party headed west, out the poor farm road, and from tracks on the road the driver did not see the turn.  In making the swerve, the wheels skidded and the car went into the ditch, which is four or five feet deep.  It is thought that the car rolled over several times in this ditch, and Spitler and Paul Cyphers, in the rumble seat, were crushed.  Turner and Francis Cyphers escaped serious injury, being somewhat protected by the top.

   The two uninjured lads went back to the Ed Parkinson home and obtained help.  Mr. Parkinson taking the injured to the hospital.  Cyphers was too badly injured to be revived and died about 2 o'clock Monday a.m.

   The car was a complete wreck.

   Both Tom Spitler and Paul Cyphers are well known in DeMotte and both of them graduated from the high school here.  Young Spitler has been employed here this summer on the new American Reformed church building.

   Funeral services for Paul Cyphers were held from the Thayer church Wednesday afternoon.

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 D

Bertie David

   Mrs. Bertie David, 65, widow of Clifford David died Wednesday night in Jasper County Hospital, Rensselaer.  She had been in failing health five years and a patient in the hospital five days.

   Born at Maud, Kentucky, she moved to Roselawn a year ago from Crown Point.  She previously lived at Rensselaer and was married at Kentland in 1916.  Her husband died in 1958.  She was a member of Roselawn Methodist Church.

   Surviving are six daughters, Mrs. Alfreida Sinks, Mrs. Virginia Hines and Mrs. Evelyn Cunningham, all of Hobart, Mrs. Florence Johnson of Chicago Heights, Illinois, Mrs. Shirley Fisher of Griffith and Mrs. Clarice Sellers of Rensselaer; three sons, Harold of Roselawn, Dennis of Griffith and First Sgt. Clifford David, in the Army and stationed in Germany; three sisters, Mrs. Flossie Thompson of Hammond, Mrs. Flora Turner and Mrs. Bonnie Studer of Rensselaer, and three brothers, Clarence Hixson of East Gary, Newt Hixson of DeMotte and Elmer Hixson of Minneapolis, Minnesota.

Clifford R. David, Jr.

   Clifford R. “Bud” David Jr., age 62, of Lake Village, passed away Tuesday, November 21, at St. Anthony Medical Center of Crown Point.  Bud was born August 23, 1933 in St. Anne, Illinois to Clifford R. and Birdie Mae (Hixson) David, Senior.  He was a Roselawn resident for 24 years.

   On December 3, 1955, in Germany, he married Magdalena Mayer.  Bud retired as a Command Sgt. Major with the U.S. Army in 1971.  After retirement he was a foreman at LaSalle Steel in Hammond for ten years and a General Foreman at Bliss and Laughlin Steel, in Harvey, and was most recently a Corrections Officer with the Newton County Sheriff’s Police.  He was a member of the American Legion Post #238 in Roselawn.

   Survivors include his wife, Magdalena David; one daughter Sonja (Martin) Musch of Goodland; 2 grandchildren, Tyler and Kaytlin; one brother, Harold “Spike” (Shirley) David of Roselawn; five sisters, Frieda Sinks of Hobart, Winnie (Fred) Groomer of Medaryville, Clarice (Earl) Hansen of Roselawn, Evelyn (Glen) Ashcraft of Valparaiso,

Shirley (Fisher) of Crown Point.  Friends may call from 2 to 5 and 6 to 9 p.m. on Friday, November 24 at the Todd Steinke Funeral Home in DeMotte where funeral services will be held on Saturday, November 25^th at 1:00 p.m. with Reverend Milton Kikkema officiating.  Burial will follow in Roselawn Cemetery where military graveside rites will be observed.

Dennis C. David

   Dennis C. David, age 61, of Lake Village, died at Saint Anthony Hospital at Crown Point at 12:30 a.m. Tuesday, March 15, 1983.

   Born in Momence, Illinois, June 25, 1921, he was the son of Clifford David and Bertie (Hixson) David.  He was a lifetime resident of Lake Village.

   He was married November 15, 1947, in Crown Point, to Dora Wynkoop, who survives.

   He was retired after 30 years at LaSalle Steel.

   He was a veteran of World War II and a member of Roselawn American Legion Post 238.

   Survivors include a son, Stephen David, of Minneapolis, Minnesota, and two daughters; Denise Wallen, Valparaiso, and Sandra Roberts, Wheatfield.

   Also surviving are two bothers: Clifford David, Lake Village; and Harold David, DeMotte.

   Also surviving are six sisters: Florence Johnston, Salisbury, North Carolina; Virginia Groomer, Gary; Alfreida Sinks, Hobart; Evelyn Ashcraft, Valparaiso; Clarice Hanson, Wilmington, Illinois, and Shirley Fisher, Lake Village.

   Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, March 17, at the Todd-Hughes Funeral Home in DeMotte with Rev. Dennis Morros officiating.  Interment will be at Graceland Cemetery, Valparaiso.

   Friends may call at the Todd-Hughes Funeral Home in DeMotte from 5 to 9 p.m. Wednesday.

Denver W. “Jack” David

   Denver W. “Jack” David, 79, of Lake Village, Indiana, passed away Friday, July 29, 1994 at St. Anthony Hospital.  He is survived by his wife, Agnes, two sons, Glenn D. (Rita) David of Crown Point and Dennis J (Royce) David of English Lake, Indiana, seven grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren, one brother, Chuck (Cathy) David, Jr. of Lake Village; two sisters Bonnie Brandt and Leona Sembicki, both of Lowell and numerous nieces and nephews.

   Funeral services will be conducted from the Sheets Funeral House, Lowell, on Monday August 1, 1994 at 11 a.m. with Pastor Rick Marcy officiating.  Burial will be in Roselawn cemetery.

  Mr. David had retired from farming, he was a World War II veteran, member of the Roselawn American Legion Post 238 and the Lowell V. F. W. Post 6841; member of the Howard O’Hunter Masonic Lodge #751 of Lake Village for the past 27 years.  Masonic Services will be conducted at 7 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home

Robert Leonard David

   Robert Leonard David loses life in playful scuffle over pistol.  A friendly scuffle between brothers who found a .22-calibre pistol in their Griffith, Indiana home while playing cops and robbers Friday morning lead to the death of one of them.

   Victim of the tragic play was Robert Leonard David, 5 ½-year-old son of Clifford David and Bertie Mae (Hixson) formerly of a short distance northeast of Rensselaer.

   The lad died from a bullet which passed through his arm and entered his chest.  He died within twenty minutes following the accidental shooting.

   The boys were playing cops and robbers when they discovered a .11-calibre revolver.  Robert, the younger, snapped the revolver but it did not discharge.  His brother, Harold Lee, took it from him and a friendly scuffle for its possession ensued.  During the scuffle the weapon was accidentally discharged.

   The little victim was born at Roselawn January 12, 1943.  The family later lived in Jasper County for a time and then went to Griffith in Lake County to live.

   Surviving besides the parents are the following brothers and sisters:  Mrs. L. E; Johnston of Chicago Heights, Illinois, Dennis David of Rensselaer, Mrs. Harold Sinks of Gary, Mrs. James Hines of Merrillville, Mrs. Robert Sellers of Rensselaer, Mr. Fred Cunningham of Rensselaer, and Clifford Ray David, Jr., Shirley Marie and Harold Lee at home.

   The funeral services will be conducted from Todd’s Funeral Home in DeMotte at 2 o’clock Sunday afternoon, with the Rev. Earl Moore of Rensselaer in charge.  Burial will be at Roselawn cemetery.  The remains are at Todd’s Chapel.

Henry De Fries

   Henry De Fries, son of John and Annie (Bakker) De Fries, was born in Jasper County, Indiana, September 15, 1878 and departed this life September 10, 1976 at the age of 96 years, 11 months, 25 days.

    In 1883 the family moved to Thayer where he attended school and grew to manhood.  In 1899 he accepted employment with the Chicago city railway, as a street car conductor, holding that position until 1902 when he returned to Thayer.

   He served as Monon railroad station agent until 1903, when he was united in marriage to Stella Gundy of Roselawn.  They then engaged in the general merchandise business until 1914 when he was appointed Thayer Postmaster.

    In 1923 he resigned to accept the position of rural mail carrier for Thayer office.  In 1935 he was transferred to the DeMotte office working out of there until April 1, 1942 when he retired at the age of 63.  He maintained residency at his home in Thayer since that time, continuing to be recognized as a highly respected and stable citizen.  His wife preceded him in death in 1944.  A child Bernice succumbed in childhood.

   Surviving are: one daughter, Esther (Hockney) Macdonald of Thayer; one son, William at home, two grandchildren, Janet Fae Darnell of Griffith and James Hockney of Crown Point.

   Funeral services were held Sunday, September 12, at Sheets Funeral Home in Lowell with Rev. Jack Zandstra of the Community Christian Reformed Church of Thayer in charge.  Interment was in Roselawn Cemetery, Roselawn, Indiana.  The pallbearers were Ed Benson, Ralph Ostrom, James Dickey, Henry Boezeman, Ralph Bozeman, Jr. and Peter Tanis.

   (Lowell Tribune, date not given).

Stella (Gundy) De Fries

    Stella, daughter of William and Sarah Ann Gundy, was born near Roselawn, Indiana July 26^th 1884, and departed this life, January 21, 1944.  At the age of four, the family moved to Roselawn, where her early childhood life was spent, and even during this period, preceding young womanhood, the attributes characteristic of her life were evidenced, forming bonds of friendship true and inseparable.

    At the age of 19, on July 26, 1903, she was united in marriage to Henry De Fries.  To this union were born three children, the first Bernice, succumbing in infancy.

   Surviving are the bereaved husband and two children, Mrs. Esther Hockney of Thayer and William De Fries, now serving in the armed forces, at Camp Mackall, N. C.; one brother, Charles Gundy, of Fair Oaks, a sister, Cora Bardwell of Pekin, Illinois and two grandchildren, Janet Fae and Jimmie Dale Hockney of Thayer.

   The untimely death leaves the entire community sad and bereaved and creates a loss among family and friends, never to be mortally replaced.

   Funeral services were held Monday, January 14, at 2 p.m. at the Presbyterian Church at Thayer.  Rev. E. L. Worley officiating, assisted by Rev. Williams of Hebron.  Burial was made in Rose Lawn cemetery in charge of Kenneth Sheets.

   (Lowell Tribune, February 2, 1944)

William De Fries

   William De Fries, 89, passed away on Friday July 23^rd 1999 at his residence in Thayer.

   He was born April 6, 1910 in Thayer to Henry and Stella (Gundy) De Fries.

   A general store merchant in Thayer, he was a World War II veteran, serving in the Army’s 82^nd Airborne.

   Survivors include a nephew, Jim Hockney of Thayer; and a niece, Janet (James) Darnell of Lynwood, Illinois.

   Services for William De Fries were held Monday, July 26 at the Jackson Funeral Service in DeMotte with pastor John Weeks officiating.  Burial was held in the Roselawn Cemetery.

   Memorial contributions can be made to the Thayer Fire Department.

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 E

Ella Mae (Cox) Edwards

   Mrs. Ella Mae Edwards passed away Thursday morning, March 11, 1971 at the Ridgeview Manor Nursing Home in Kalamazoo, Michigan where she had been for the past year.  Mrs. Edwards was born September 16, 1882 in Shelby, Indiana, the daughter of Emory and Cora (McGlenn) Cox.  She was a member of the Presbyterian Church of Schoolcraft, Michigan.  On August 1, 1911 she was married to Albert Edwards in Harlan, Iowa, who preceded her in death in April of 1970.  She is survived by two sons, Ord of Route 1, Schoolcraft, and Max of Des Moines, Iowa; two granddaughters; one great grandson; a grandson, Lee Edwards, also preceded her in death in June of 1970.; one sister, Mrs. Frank Garriott of Thayer, Indiana; three brothers, Frank, Floyd and Albert Cox and one sister, Mrs. Ray Casey preceded her in death.

   Funeral services were held at the Robertson Funeral Home in Schoolcraft at 2 o’clock, Saturday, March 13 with Rev. Oliver Page officiating.  Burial was in the Schoolcraft Cemetery.  She had a lot of nieces and nephews living in Indiana and Illinois and in Newton County

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 F

Julias G. Flachsenberger

   Julias G. Flachsenberger, age 68, of Lake Village, died at his home, Saturday, July 2^nd.

   He was born in Germany July 9, 1914, and came to Lake Village from Chicago 45 years ago.  He was married October 3, 1940, to Jennie Armstrong, who preceded him in death.  He was the son of George and Ursula Flachsenberger.

   He was a retired employee of the Newton County Highway Department and also was retired from farming.  He was a veteran of World War II.

   Survivors include the following children and step-children:  Julia (Mrs. Robert) Junglas, Thayer; Joe (Carol) Flachsenberger, Lake Village; Larry (Carol) Flachsenberger, Lake Villager; and step-children Clarence (Myrna) Armstrong, Louiston, Illinois; Jeanette (Mrs. Wilford) Tuttle, Thayer; Raymond (Pat) Armstrong, Lake Village; Donald (Bonnie) Armstrong, Hammond; Jerry (Gail) Armstrong, Lake Village; and Thelma (Mrs. David) Smith, Roselawn.

   Also surviving are two sisters; Elizabeth Gunter, and Hewick (Mrs. Joe) Singer.

   He was preceded in death by his wife, a brother and a step-son.

   Other survivors include 46 grandchildren and 41 great-grandchildren.

   Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. Wednesday at the Todd-Hughes Funeral Home in DeMotte with Pastor Herschel Cole officiating.  Interment will follow at Roselawn Cemetery.

   Friends may call at the Todd-Hughes Funeral Home from 2 to 9 p.m. Tuesday.

   (From the Republican, Rensselaer, July 6, 1983)

William Florer

   William Florer died at his home in Roselawn at 2 a.m. on Saturday,  December 15, 1962, following a three-year illness at the age of 97 years.

   Mr. Florer was born in Richmond, Ohio, September 12, 1865, the son of Sylvester

Florer and Margaret (West) Florer.  He was married to Amy Bruechet in Roselawn in 1890.  She died in 1945.  Mr. Florer made his home in Roselawn the past two years, going there from Kentucky.  He was a retired contractor and carpenter, and for a time was employed by a broom factory in Warsaw.  He was a member of the Methodist church, and a lifetime honorary member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows.

   The only immediate survivors are five nephews, Kenneth Florer of Grant’s Pass, Oregon, Roy Florer of Tefft, Clarence Florer of LaCrosse, and William Florer of Hammond and John Florer of South Bend.

   The funeral services will be held from Todd’s Funeral Home, DeMotte, at 10 a.m. Tuesday with the Rev. John F. Deal officiating.  Interment will be in Silver Lake cemetery in Silver Lake.

Frank Foreman

   He was raised in a rural area, so those who knew him say it was no surprise that Frank Foreman always enjoyed gardening, “growing the best potatoes,” and keeping his half-acre neatly manicured.

   “He loved the outdoors and his little garden,” said his wife, Jenny Foreman.

   Mr. Foreman, 62, who died July 28, was a native of Hobart and a resident of Roselawn.

   “Frank also believed that no one could mow the grass like he could,” Mrs. Foreman said.  “He took great pride in keeping our little plat of land looking special.”

   But Foreman also had other favorite pastimes during his life.

   “He was very dedicated to the upbringing of our foster children” said Mrs. Foreman, adding that through the years, the family took 48 youngsters under their wing.

   Foreman said she and her husband derived tremendous satisfaction from being the surrogate parents to children who required nurturing and parenting.

   Mr. Foreman was a graduate of Merrillville High School, class of 1952; a U.S. Army veteran and a member of the Trinity Lutheran Church of Hobart.

   He was formerly employed by Brumm’s Distributing in Highland and Olinger’s Distributing in Indianapolis.  MR. Foreman also was a corrections officer in the Newton County Jail, retiring in January 1996.

   He is survived by his wife, Jenny, of Roselawn; one daughter, Pat Brown of Crown Point; two sons, Mike (Earline) Livengood of Portage, and Doug (Merry) Foreman of Roselawn; mother Louise Foreman of Hobart/Ainsworth; nine grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; one brother Delmer (Louise) Foreman of Cedar Lake, two aunts, and many nieces and nephews.

   Services were held July 31, at the Todd Steinke Funeral Home, DeMotte, with the Rev. Robert Stocke officiating.

   Interment took place at Roselawn Cemetery, Roselawn.

Jimmy L Fork

   Jimmy L. Fork, age 39, Peotone, Illinois, a former resident of Roselawn, was killed in a traffic accident of July 10 in Peotone on his way home from work.  He had attended Roselawn School and had lived in the area until about 1967.

   Survivors include his wife, Kerri Joy; son, Sean, daughter, Kelly, Peotone; father, James Fork, Merrillville; mother Lee Atcheson and sister, Linda Fork, Joliet, Illinois.

   Funeral services were held at Rendina Funeral Home in Merrillville with burial at Chapel Lawn Memorial Gardens in Schererville.

   (Morocco Courier, July 21,

Hannah Ann Fuller

   Hannah Ann Fuller, daughter of Richard and Deborah Fuller, was born two and one half miles west of Lowell Indiana December 29, 1863.  She departed this life March 29, 1931 at Shelby at the age of 68 years 2 months and 28 days.

   She moved to Shelby, Indiana forty-eight years ago and has been a resident there ever since.  Miss Fuller was a member of one of Lake County’s pioneer families, her father having served in the Civil War, and from the time she lost her mother in early childhood her entire life, as well as that of her sister, Adelia, was devoted to making a happy home for her father and the family.

   Preceding her in death are her mother and father: three brothers, Holbrook, Cyrus and Allen Fuller, and two sisters, Mrs. Ella Sirois and Mrs. Jeanette Black.

   Those left to mourn her death are: Adelia Fuller, of Shelby, whose constant companion she has been for a number of years; Mrs. Naomi Parsons, of New Haven, Connecticut; Mrs. Agnes Bowie of Grand Rapids, Michigan; Edward Fuller of Shelby and James Fuller of Vallejo, California and a number of other relatives and friends.

   Miss Fuller was a member of the Methodist church of Shelby.

   Funeral services were held at the Christian church in Shelby at 1 p.m. Tuesday.  The services were conducted by Rev. H. L. McBride, pastor of the M. E. church in Lowell.  Interment was made in the Orchard Grove cemetery in charge of Sheets and Sons.

J. Walter Fuller

   J. Walter Fuller Hangs Self, son of John M. and Marion Fuller born near Lowell, Indiana 27 January 1873 died near Shelby, Indiana 7 March 1917, age 44 years 1 month 8 days. Married to Mary Brady of Thayer, 11 August 1905. He leaves to mourn a wife, three brothers and two sisters, J.A. Fuller, E.M. Fuller, F.G. Fuller, Mrs. W.W. Dedsinson, Mrs. C.E. McNay and other relatives and friends. Shelby Church of Christ. Burial Lowell Cemetery.

   (Kankakee Valley Review March 16, 1917)

O.D. Fuller

   Word received last Thursday announced the death of O.D. Fuller of Knox which occurred Wednesday evening of last week. The deceased was a son of Frank Fuller, Sr. and a nephew of Richard Fuller of Shelby and was quite well known in Cedar Creek Township. He had resided at Knox for many years and was one of the leading politicians of Starke County, having been county treasurer and commissioner

   (Kankakee Valley Review February 13, 1914)

Richard Fuller

   Richard Fuller born Athens County, Ohio 12 February 1829 died at Shelby 28 May 1918, age 89 years 3 months 16 days. His parents James and Lydia Fuller, natives of Maine who became the parents of eleven children of whom Richard Fuller was the tenth child and ninth son and was in his tenth year when he came with his parents to Lake County, on land entered from the government two miles east of Lowell is Cedar Creek Township, where his parents spent their remaining years.

   Richard Fuller received his education in one of the old log school houses, attending through the winter months and assisted his father until he attained his majority. He then engaged in farming on his own account and at one time operated over 1000 acres for the Land Company at Shelby. In 1854 he was united in marriage to Miss Deborah Hale, a native of Maine, who was reared in Lake County, Indiana. She died in 1875 having eleven children, all of whom reached adult age, eight of whom are living to mourn the loss of a kind and loving father. They are Clara Adelia, Hannah Ann and Joseph Allen of Shelby, James Franklin of San Diego, California, Mrs. Naomi Adeline Parson of New Haven, Connecticut, Richard Edwin of Indianapolis, Mrs. Laura Jeannette Black of Lowell, and Mrs. Agnes Deborah Bowie of Wheatfield. Two sons and one daughter preceded the father to the great beyond. ?, Cyrus Julian of Kansas, Mrs. Ellen Sirois and Holbrook of Shelby. Served in the Civil War Co. F, 55^th Vol. Inf. Dis. 27 July 1865.

   A democrat. Resident of Lake County for 80 years. Burial Orchard Grove Cemetery.

   John Bowie, editor of the Kankakee Valley Review is a son-in-law, as is James Black, community of Lake County. Relative of Judge Fuller, chief justice of the U.S. Supreme Court.

   (Kankakee Valley Review May 30, 1918)

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 G

Charles A. Gerrard

   Charles A. Gerrard was born July 16, 1876 at Columbus, Nebraska and departed this life August 2, 1944 in the Rensselaer hospital at the age of 68 years and 16 days.  He was united in marriage with Iona Sallee August 23, 1924.  Besides his wife he leaves two step-daughters, Mrs. James O’Donnell of East Chicago, Indiana, Mrs. Roy Granger of Thayer, four foster children Irene and Edwin Sallee, Janet and Virginia Hixson, 14 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.

   Mr. Gerrard was a printer until 1931.  Since that time he has resided on a farm southest of Roselawn, Indiana with his family.  He fought for his country in the Spanish American War in 1898.  He had a host of friends and neighbors and will be greatly missed in his community.

   (Brook Reporter, August 10; 1944)

Minnie A. Garriott

   Minnie A. Garriott, 89, of Thayer, passed away on Saturday, April 25. She was born on March 4, 1892 in Stanton, Nebraska and was the daughter of Emory and Cora Cox.  At an early age she came with her parents to Fair Oaks and attended school there.

   On December 25, 1911 in Rensselaer, she married Frank Garriott who had been her eighth grade teacher.

   Minnie was matron of the Newton County Farm for five years while Frank was the superintendent there.  She was a correspondent for the Brook Reporter for many years.

   In 1935 they came to Thayer which has been their home until recent years.  Frank passed away in June of l979.

   She is survived by one daughter, Mrs. Freda (Alvin) Hale of Kewanna, Indiana; three grandchildren, Mrs. Alma (Frank) Goss of Knox, Arthur (Virgie) Hale of Winamac, Charles (Connie) Hale of Reynoldsville, Pa.; 12 great-grandchildren; and three cousins.

   Funeral services were held from the First Presbyterian Church in Thayer on April 29, with Rev. Donald VanLiew, Jr.III officiating.  Burial was in the Fair Oaks Cemetery.

Everett Daniel Gleason

   Everett Daniel Gleason, son of David Daniel and Orpha Lettice Gleason born Lake Village 2 November 1873 died at Coopersville, Michigan 30 December 1917, age 44 years 1 month 28 days. Married Miss Lena Halverson May 22, 1901. Seven children: Orpha Everette, Ian Forest, Lealah Vivian, Berge Inez, Neva Naomi, Mable Marie and Una Alice. Brother: David Barger Gleason, three sisters: Dora Florence Olson, Orpha Daisy Gleason, and Orla Desma Gleason. Burial DeMotte Cemetery.

   Cousin of Abe Halleck.

(Kankakee Valley Review January 10, 1918)

Henry Granger

   Henry “Hank” Granger was born in Porter County, Indiana 10 October 1858 and died at the home of his daughter Mrs. William Haberman of Hammond, Saturday evening, February 12, 1916 age 57 years 6 months 2 days with a sudden attack of heart trouble. The deceased was united in marriage while quite young to Lucretia Moser. To this union were born 12 children, 7 boys and 5 girls. Three of the boys preceded the father to the great beyond, with the wife and sons Andrew of DeMotte, Roy, Seth, Fred of Chicago, Mrs. John De Fries, Mrs. Henry Boswinkle, Mrs. Lawrence Damson of Thayer, Mrs. Chas Freel of East Chicago, Mrs. William Haberman of Hammond mourn the loss of a husband and father. The deceased was probably one of the best known characters in the Kankakee Valley, having been engaged as a caterer to hunters and outing parties for many years. The funeral services were held at the M.E. Church of DeMotte, Friday 15 February 1916. Interment at DeMotte Cemetery.

   The following from a distance were attending the funeral: Sylvia Rowe of Ithaca, Michigan, Chas Amstein of Chicago, Shy Byerly, Muncie, Mr. & Mrs. Will Haberman, Fred Granger and wife, Fred Jarvis and wife, Leon Granger and wife, M.J. Granger and wife, Chas Freel and wife, Fay Granger and wife, Roy Granger and wife, Sidney Granger and wife, and Mart Granger and wife.

   Henry Granger, of Thayer, better known as “Hank” Granger, the Thayer citizen whose name had been associated with a number of crimes, but who was never convicted, died suddenly last Saturday while visiting his daughter in Hammond.

   Granger had for many years been a resident of Thayer and was known as a hunter and fisher and maintained a camp at the juncture of the Kankakee river and the Gifford railroad. He was a very large man, being somewhat over 6 feet tall and weighing 285 pounds.

   His reputation for lawlessness was based upon many allegations that he hunted illegally, that he sold liquor in violation of the law, that he inspired and conspired in various other crimes. Last year he was charged with operating a “fence” for stolen automobiles. From every charge filed against him he came out with flying colors and his demeanor on the witness stand always indicated his innocence, in fact, many went to court house to see the “notorious” Hank Granger were moved to sympathy for him when he testified to good habits and his purity of motives.

   Granger lived along the river and in the woods. He was a hunter who knew every inch of the river country and as a guide and companion he was sought by many hunters. It is said that he never used tobacco or took a drink unless he was along or with somebody, although he conducted a saloon for sometime and was accused many times of clandestine sales. On one occasion his place was raided and a quantity of intoxicants confiscated. They were placed on the train and Granger was being taken to Kentland for trial. Before the train reared Kentland the confiscated liquors had all disappeared. It was believed that confederates had thrown them from the train. The conviction rested upon the goods as evidence and there was nothing to do but to dismiss the case.

   (Kankakee Valley Review February 17, 1916)

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 H

Clyde A. Hanley

   Clyde A. Hanley, 73, of Fair Oaks, died at Jasper County Hospital, Tuesday, October 20.

   A retired farmer, he is survived by his wife, Luella.

   Also surviving are three sons and three daughters, Anna Belle (Mrs. Robert) Binge, San Antonio, Texas; Nellie (Mrs. Wayne) Miller, Fair Oaks; Bonnie (Mrs. William) Gentry, Morocco; Leon (Linda) Hanley, of Shelby; Albert (Carol) Hanley, of Lake Village and Clarence (Grace) Hanley of Fair Oaks. Sixteen grandchildren also survive.

   Others survivors include five brothers and five sisters: James, Livingston, Texas; Robert, Nashville, Indiana; George of Thayer; Richard of DeMotte; William, of Valparaiso; Mrs. Audrey Collins of Kentland; Mrs. Helen Patrykus of Posan, Illinois; Vrs. Verda Nelson of Orlando, Florida; Mrs. Nila Ball of Lowell; and Mrs. Virginia Cyphers of Bradenton, Florida.

   Funeral services were held at the Sheets Funeral Home at Lowell Friday at 1 p.m. with Rev. W. Lynn Henry officiating.  Interment was at Fair Oaks Cemetery.

   (Brook Reporter, October 29, 1981).

John Raymond Hanley

   John Raymond Hanley, beloved son of Mr. and Mrs. Sharp Hanley, was born April 8, 1917, and departed this life September 15, 1919 at the tender age of 2 years, 5 months and 7 days from cholera infantum.  He leaves a father, mother, three brothers and two sisters and a host of other relatives to mourn his loss.

Luella (Brocker) Hanley

   Luella S. Hanley, 74 of Rt. 1 Box 156A Fair Oaks, died at 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, September 6, 1989 at the Rensselaer Care Center.

   The daughter of Frederick and Mary (Friedl) Brocker, both deceased, she was born June 25, 1915 in Tefft.

   She married Clyde A. Hanley on December 31, 1931.  He preceded her in death on October 20, 1981.

   She was a housewife.  She was a resident of Fair Oaks since 1941, having previously lived in Monon and in Newton County.  She graduated from Conrad School in Newton County.  She was a member of the Methodist Church.

   Survivors include two daughters, Mrs. Wayne (Nellie) Miller of Fair Oaks and Mrs. Bill (Bonnie) Gentry of Lexington, Kentucky; three sons, Leon Hanley of Shelby, Indiana, Clarence Hanley of Fair Oaks and Albert Hanley of Lake Village; three sisters, Mrs. Mildred Schmidt, of Chicago, Mrs. Adeline Sorenson of Elgin, Illinois, and Minnie Brocker of Donaldson, Indiana.

   Funeral services will be held 1 p.m., Saturday, September 9, at the Jackson Funeral Chapel with the Rev. Donald Ruhl officiating.  Burial to follow at Fair Oaks Cemetery.  Visitation will be held after 2: p.m., Friday, September 8, at the Jackson Funeral Chapel

Sharp Hanley

   Veteran farmer expires following protracted illness.  Sharp Hanley, long a prominent resident of the Fair Oaks and Roselawn vicinities, died at his home near Roselawn early today following an extended illness.

   Mr. Hanley was born March 21, 1878, in Kentucky.  He came to Jasper county about forty years ago and since had lived here.  He married Ida Cox.

   Surviving besides the wife are several children, two brothers and two sisters.  The four latter live in Kentucky.

Clarice J. Hansen

   Clarice J. Hansen, 72, of Lake Village, Indiana passed away at 11 a.m., Saturday, February 3, 2001 at the St. Anthony Medical Center in Crown Point, Indiana.

   She was born March 25, 1928 in Roselawn Indiana to Clifford and Bertie (Hixson) David.  She has been a lifetime Lake Village, Roselawn area resident.

   She was married in 1968 in Wilmington, Illinois to Earl C. Hansen and he survives.

   Hansen was a homemaker and a member of the Rensselaer VFW Auxiliary.

   Surviving in addition to her husband are three daughters: Pam (Dale) Allen of Kankakee, Illinois, Vicky (Kevin) Yarnell of Centralia, Illinois and Jennifer (Rick) Benson of Wilmington, Illinois; one son: Bob Sellers of Peoria, Illinois; four sisters: Frieda Sinks of Hobart, Virginia (Fred) Groomer of Medaryville, Evelyn (Glen) Ashcraft of Valparaiso, and Shirley Fisher of Crown Point; one brother Harold “Spike” (Shirley) David of Roselawn; 10 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren also survive.

   She was preceded in death by her parents, one sister and five brothers.  Several nieces, nephews and cousins also survive.

   Visitation was 10 a.m. until 12: p.m. on Wednesday, February 7, 2001 at the Lang Funeral Chapel in Lake Village.

   Funeral services were held at the Lang Funeral Home on Wednesday, February 7^th.  Burial followed at the Roselawn Cemetery.

Earl C. Hansen

  Earl C. Hansen, age 77, of Lake Village, Indiana, passed away on

Wednesday, December 1, 2004.  He is survived by one daughter, Jennifer (Bruce) Hansen Haskins of Wilmington, Illinois; 2 step-daughters, Pammy (Dale) Allen and Vickey Clark, both of Kankakee, Illinois, 1 step-son, Robert Sellars of Peoria, Illinois; 12 grandchildren; 4 great-grandchildren; 3 brothers, Robert (Ramona) Hansen of Knox, Richard (Mary Ann) Hansen of Wilmington, and Franklin Hansen of Veedersburg; 1 sisters Lorene Bales of Mount Ayr and Janice (Pat) Laffoon of Bristol; numerous nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death y his wife, Claire in 2001.  Funeral services will be held on Saturday, December 4, 2004 at 11:00 a.m. at the Sheets Funeral Home, 604 E. Commercial Ave., Lowell, Indiana.  Pastor Delos Keene officiating.  Burial will follow at Roselawn Cemetery in Roselawn, Indiana.  Friends are invited to call on Friday from 2-5; and 7-9 p.m. at the funeral home.

   Earl was retired after 30- years of service with the Joliet Ammunition Plant in Joliet, Illinois.  He was a member of the VFW Post in Wilmington, Illinois and the Roselawn United Methodist Church in Roselawn, Indiana.

Henry Clay Harris

   Henry Clay Harris, son of John and Lucinda (Mitchell) Harris born in Warren County, Indiana 14 May 1844. His boyhood days spent in Warren County, he enlisted in Co. D, 60^th Ind., Reg., and served till close of war March 1865.

   28 October 1866 married Jane Stemble, the daughter of Dr. Stemble of Oxford. In 1905 having made large purchases in Newton County he moved to Morocco where his home has been since. Four children were born to them. The oldest Anna died in infancy, Herschel Harris of Morocco, Mrs. W.W. Evans of Fowler and Mrs. Bertha C. Mauzy of Santa Monica, California.

   The wife died 20 August 1898. United with M.E. Church. Funeral held at his home in Morocco. Burial Boswell Cemetery.

   (Kankakee Valley Review April 4, 1918)

Carol Fay Hass

   Carol Fay Hass, age 70, of DeMotte, formerly of Gary and Merrillville, passed away on Sunday, September 26, 2004. She was the head of the Merrillville Girl Scouts, a member of Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Merrillville and Sarah Circle. She also taught Sunday School. Carol was the former owner of Double Day Ducklings Day Care in DeMotte. She was preceded in death by her parents, Norman J. and Lorraine Hartmann and brother Wayne. Survivors are two daughters: Lynn Ellen (Steve) Holm of Valparaiso and Ellen M. (Andrew) Speer of Maryland; and three granddaughters: Courtney, Tori, and Ashley.

   Funeral Services will be held on Thursday, September 30, 2004 at 1:00 p.m. at the Burns Funeral Home (corner 101^st & Broadway), Merrillville/Crown Point Chapel with Rev. Larry Gember officiating. Interment, Angel Crest Cemetery in Valparaiso. Friends may visit with the family on Wednesday from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Crown Point Chapel. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Emmanuel Lutheran Church or VNA Hospice in Valparaiso.

(Printed in The Times)

Mary Elizabeth Herriman

   Mary Elizabeth Herriman, was born October 3, 1891 near Brook, united with the Christian Church at Kentland her 15^th year. She married to Edward S. Gilvin in August 25, 1909. She died April 23, 1915 leaving husband and son Kenneth, 4 years old. Also father, mother, brother and four sisters. Mrs. Gilvin was in poor health for three years and when the end came was ready and made all arrangements with the family for the funeral. She was buried in the Rose Lawn Cemetery Sunday afternoon. Funeral was held at the M.E. Church. Rev. Rostill presided. Relatives attending: C.B. Ines and wife, Monon, Mrs. J.C. Clements, Joliet, Illinois, Mrs. William Johnson and daughter, Paris, Michigan, George Harriman, Revenna, Nebraska, Floyd Cox and wife, Rose Lawn, Clyde Herriman, Charles Martin and wife, Alvin Herriman and A. Brees and wife all of Kentland

Larry Hesh

   Larry W. Hesh, 41, Roselawn, died at 3 a.m. January 30 at his residence.  He was a lifelong resident of Roselawn.

   The son of Harold and Dora (Albright) Hesh, he was born July 28, 1945 in Roselawn.  He was a self-employed mechanic.

   Survivors include three daughters, Veronica Hesh, Brook, Tina Marie Hesh, Lake Village, Vickie Hesh, Morocco, two sons, Larry Joe Hesh, Wheatfield and Clayton L. Hesh, Morocco.

   Survivors also include a sister Sue (Mrs. Everett) Roberts, Wheatfield; and five brothers; Harley Hesh, Shelby, Indiana, Robert Hesh, Wheatfield, James Hesh, DeMotte, Jack Hesh, Lowell and Charles Hesh, Earl Park.  His parents and several neices and nephews also survive.

   Friends may call from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Monday at the Todd-Hughes Funeral Home in DeMotte.  Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Tuesday at the Todd-Hughes Funeral Home with Brother Ballard Lewis officiating.  Burial will be in the Roselawn Cemetery.

   (The Republican, February 2, 1987)

Robert Hesh

   Robert W. Hesh, 49, of 223 Owen Circle, N.E., Calhoun, Georgia, died Wednesday August 28 at 4:30 a.m. at his residence of an apparent heart attack.

   Born February 22, 1942 at Mount Ayr, he was the son of Harold and Dora (Albright) Hesh.  He had been a Georgia resident for three years, having formerly lived in Wheatfield.

   He had been employed as a mechanic at C.I.T. Trucking Co. in Calhoun and had previously worked for Sculley Trucking in Wheatfield.

   He had attended the Full Gospel Tabernacle in Wheatfield.

   On January 1, 1985, at Wheatfield he married Marie (Postma) Price, who survives.

   Also surviving are his mother, Dora Hesh of Lake Village, one daughter Bobett L Hesh of Thayer. two stepdaughters, Alice (John) McCarty of Shelby and Michelle Price of Calhoun, Georgia, five stepsons, Pat (Nora) Mulloy of Shelby, Kevin (Rea) Mulloy of Wheatfield, Martin Mulloy of Aurora, Illinois, Eric Mulloy of South St. Paul, Minnesota, and Kenneth Price of Calhoun, Georgia; one sister, Darlene (Everette) Roberts of Wheatfield, four brothers, Harley (Robin) Hesh of Shelby, James (Kay) Hesh, DeMotte, and Jack (Shirley) Hesh and Charlie Hesh of Lake Village, and five step-grandchildren.

   Visitation is scheduled for Friday, August 30 from 2 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Victory Baptist Church in Roselawn.

   Funeral services will take place on Saturday, August 31 at 10:30 at the church with Brother Jim Orr officiating.

   Burial will follow in the Roselawn Cemetery.

   Todd-Steinke Funeral Home of DeMotte is in charge of the arrangements.

   (The Republican, August 29, 1991)

Clarence M. Hixson

   Clarence M. Hixson, 71, of Roselawn, a veteran of World War I, died at 11 p.m. Monday at Hines veterans’ hospital in Hines, Illinois, where he had been a patient since August 28.  He had been declining for three months.

   Mr. Hixson was born in Stylesville, Indiana, August 22, 1897, the son of Dudley and Mattie (Coffee) Hixson.  He was married to Mary Sallee November 10, 1923, who preceded him in death.  His second wife was Lillian Swanteck, who died in 1963.

   He was an operating engineer in World War I and was a member of Morocco F. and A.M. Lodge No. 372 and the Scottish Rite of Indianapolis.

   Surviving him are a son, Russell Hixson, of Merrillville, three daughters: Mrs. Norman Austin of Virginia Beach, Virginia, Mrs. Charles (Janet) Marlin, Jr., of Rensselaer, and Mrs. Charles (Vivian) Chorzempa of Roselawn; two step-children, Joseph Swanteck of Westchester, Illinois, and Mrs. Evelyn Mucha of Chicago; two brothers, Raymond of DeMotte and Elmer Hixson of Minnesota, three sisters, Mrs. Theo (Flora) Turner and Mrs. Andrew Studer of Rensselaer and Mrs. Thomas (Flossie) Thompson of Hammond, sixteen grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.  He was preceded in death by one brother and one sister.

   The funeral services will be held from Todd’s Funeral Home in DeMotte at 1 p.m. Friday with the Rev. Harold Holdeman officiating.  Interment will be in Roselawn cemetery.  Friends will be received at the funeral home after 2 p.m. Thursday.

   Masonic rites will be held at the funeral home at 8 p.m. Thursday.

Donald Lee Hixson

   Donald "Burr" Lee Hixson, 46, 15200 N. 1000 W., DeMotte, died suddenly at his residence Friday, March 29.

   Born November 10, 1937 in Roselawn, he was the son of Raymond Newton and Mabel (Granger) Hixson.  He was a lifetime resident of the area.  He married Judith A. Meyer on February 2, 1957 in Crown Point.

   He was an operating engineer with Local 5150.  He was a member of Hebron Lodge 502 F & AM, and the National Rifle Association.

   He is survived by a son and two daughters, James Donald, DeMotte; Debra (Mrs. Eddie) Coffer, Fair Oaks; and Kathleen (Mrs. Roger) Ferguson, Wheatfield.  Six grandchildren also survive.

   Also surviving are two brothers and a sister; Jack Hixson, DeMotte; Raymond Hixson, Sunman, Indiana; and Kathryn (Mrs. Hurby) Garriott, Lafayette.

   Friends may call from 2-5 and 7-9 p.m. Sunday at the Todd-Hughes Funeral Home, DeMotte.  Masonic services will be held 7:30 p.m. Sunday.

   The funeral will be Monday, April 2 at 10:30 a.m. at the funeral home with the James B. Willyard officiating.  Interment will be in DeMotte Cemetery.

   (The Republican, March 31, 1984)

Hixson, Elmer L.

   Elmer L. Hixson, Rt. 3, Box 171 C, Rensselaer, died Monday, August 15 at 7:30 p.m. at St. Anthony’s Medical Center, Crown Point, after an illness of six months.

   He had been a resident of Rensselaer since 1971 and also had lived in Minneapolis 30 years.  He was born in Mount Meridian, Indiana, the son of Dudley and Mattie (Coffey) Hixson.  He graduated from DeMotte High School with the class of 1923, and graduated from Minnesota University.

   He married Julia E. Kalemba on April 15, 1928 in Chicago.  He was a member of the United Methodist Church.  He worked as an engineer and was plant manager for Great Lakes Screw Corporation for many years.

   He was a member of Mason Prairie Lodge 125 and the National Welding Society.

   His wife, Julia, one son and one daughter survive:  Janet (Mrs. Walter) Mysliwiec, Dyer, Indiana, and Elmer L. Hixson, Jr., Gulf Port, Mississippi.  Two grandchildren also survive.

   Also surviving are three sisters: Flo Trudeau, Flossie Thompson and Bonnie Studer, all of Rensselaer.  Three brothers and one sister preceded him in death.

   Friends may call at the Steinke Funeral Home from 2-9 p.m. Wednesday.

   The funeral will be Thursday, August 18 at 10 a.m. at the Steinke Funeral Home with Rev. Harold Joyce officiating.  Masonic Lodge services will be held at 7:30 p.m. at the funeral home.  Interment will be at Lowell Cemetery, in Lowell, Indiana.

Mabel Hixson

   Mabel Hixson, 80, of DeMotte, died Friday morning at the Lake Holiday Manor Nursing Home.

   She was an area resident all her life.  Born July 16, 1904 in DeMotte, she was the daughter of Andrew J. and Nettie Mae (Roush) Granger.  She was the wife of Raymond “Newt” Hixson and a member of Faith Lutheran Church, DeMotte.

   She is survived by three children; Kathryn (Mrs. Henry) Garriott, of Lafayette; Raymond C. Hixson of Sunman, Indiana; and Jack M. Hixson, of DeMotte.  Also surviving are two sisters, Myrtle Granger, of Chicago, and Lois Jones, of El Paso, Texas.

   Seventeen grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren also survive.  Her husband and a son, Donald Hixson, preceded her in death.

   Graveside services will be held at the DeMotte Cemetery on Monday at 10 a.m. with the Rev. James R. Robinson officiating.

Ray Hixson

   Ray “Newt” Newton Hixson, 72, died Friday in his home on Rt. 2, DeMotte.

   Born in Greencastle, Indiana on October 1, 1903, he was the son of Dudley and Mattie (Coffee) Hixson.  He was married to Mabel Granger on July 3, 1926 in Crown Point.

   A resident of the DeMotte area 59 years, he was a retired operating engineer.

   Surviving with the wife are one daughter, Mrs. Katherine Grevenstuk of Lafayette; three sons, Raymond of Sunman, Indiana and Jack and Donald Hixson, both of DeMotte; 17 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

   Funeral arrangements are pending at Todd Funeral Home, DeMotte.

Roy C. Hixson

   Roy Clifton Hixson, 50, a resident of Morocco, died Sunday night in Robert Long hospital, Indianapolis, where he had been a patient since the first of the year.  He was critically ill for the past three months.

   Born near Greencastle, he moved to the Morocco community in his early youth and had resided in Newton and Southern Lake counties most of his life. He was a contractor y occupation, a veteran of World War I, and a member of the Masonic Lodge, Shrine, American Legion, Morocco and Kankakee Saddle clubs.  He was first married to Almira Angrave and later in 1938 to Kathleen Sinks.

   Surviving are the widow and two sons by the former marriage, Robert of Chicago and James in the Air Force; three brothers, Clarence of Crown Point, Elmer of Minneapolis, Minnesota, and Newton of DeMotte; four sisters, Mrs. Birdie David of Hessville; Mrs. Flossie Thompson of Hammond, Mrs. Flora Turner and Mrs. Bonnie Studer, both of Rensselaer

Martin A. Hopper

   This community received a terrible shock last Friday evening when it learned the sad news of the suicidal death of Matt Hopper, whose body was found hanging to a tree in the woods near the home of his wife's parents, Mr. and Mrs. C. C. Bruechet, two and one-half miles west of Roselawn.  The cause of the rash act is accounted for in this manner--the deceased received a shock while the electrical storm passed over here Saturday, July 13th.  He was in the barbershop at the time the lightning struck a tree nearby and the shock affected four persons other than Matt.  It is now thought the electric shock somewhat deranged his mind.

   On Friday morning he had arisen earlier than any of the household at the Bruechet home and procured a rope, and committed the deed.  None of the relatives, of course, anticipated the occurrence and were not much alarmed over his non-appearance until Saturday, when a general search was made, resulting in the finding of the remains.  Corner Wickersham of Goodland, was notified and came and made an investigation Saturday evening, after which the remains were turned over to Undertaker Keen.

   Martin A. Hopper was born June 6, 1878, at the home place near Roselawn, Indiana, and removed to Momence with his parents, where they resided five years.  Then he returned to this vicinity, where he lived until his death.

   On May 5, 1901, he was married to Miss Anna Bruechet.  To his union were born two boys, Wayne and Charles.  Besides his wife and sons, he leaved to mourn their loss his father and mother, three sisters and three brothers.  One sister preceded him in death.

William Husha

   William Husha of Lake Village died at the Wesleyan Hospital, Chicago 4 June 1917 after an operation to relieve him of bowel troubles. Funeral was at the Village 2 p.m. Wednesday.

   (Kankakee Valley Review June 8, 1917)

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 I

John William Iliff

   Death of John William Iliff, son of Frank Iliff, of Rose Lawn, died of Bright’s disease after a short illness at this home in Thayer, Newton County, on Monday October 12, 1903 age 38 years 7 months 9 days. He was born in Barkley Township, Jasper County, Indiana March 3, 1865.

   He was united in marriage to Emma R. Fleming March 21, 1859. To this union were born five children, two girls and three boys, age respectively; eleven, nine, seven, five and two years.

   He came to Thayer in August 1900 and engaged in blacksmith business and was one of our best citizens, very highly respected by all who knew him. He was an excellent neighbor, a kind and generous friend and his presence in this community will be greatly missed.  

   He leaves to mourn their loss; wife, three sons, two daughters, a father, Frank Iliff, of RoseLawn, three brothers, Charles F. Iliff, of Rose Lawn, Ellsworth Iliff, of Chicago Heights, Frank Iliff, of Elmira, Arkansas, and a sister, Mrs. James Comer, of Morocco.

   His funeral, which was very largely attended, occurred from his late home on Tuesday at 1p.m. The services were conducted by George E. Roger, interment in the RoseLawn cemetery.

J

Albert Johnson

   Albert L. Johnson, 95, of Roselawn died at 10:50 a.m. Wednesday at Lowell Health Care Center in Lowell.

   The son of Gustaif Johnson and Matilda Johanson, he was born September 28, 1892 in Chicago, Illinois.

   He was married April 5, 1968, in Roselawn to Pearl Henry, who survives.

   He was employed as a collector for the Illinois Bell Telephone Company.  He was a U.S. Navy veteran of World War I, and a member of the American Legion, 242, in Chicago. He was affiliated with the Lutheran Church.

   Survivors include several nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by one sister.

   Friends may call from 4 to 8 p.m. Thursday at the Todd-Cooprider Funeral Home.

   Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Friday at the Todd-Cooprider Funeral Home, with Rev. Chip Gast officiating.  Burial will follow in the Lowell Cemetery.

   (The Republican, December 17, 1987)

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 K

Mariah Kight

Death of Mariah Kight

   Mariah Nichols, wife of Joseph Kight, was born near Columbus, Ohio April 7, 1819, died at her home in Lake Village, October 28, 1903 age 84 years 6 months 21 days. When 7 years old her parents moved to Indiana and settled on Fort Harrison Prairie near Terra Haute. There until 18 years old she resided with her parents when they moved to Illinois, one mile north and half mile east of Momence, to what is known as the Nichols homestead. There she was married to Joseph Kight, of Danville, in February 1837. They made their home near Danville for a few years, and then moved to Scott County, Missouri, near Memphis, where they made their home until the death of her husband, who died at that place. He left her with seven children to take care of, whom she brought up in honor and respect. She has made her home with her son, Sam Kight, of Lake Village, for the past 25 years. Three children preceded her in death, five living to mourn their loss. Mrs. Sarah Ann Gundy, of Rose Lawn, Joseph R. Kight, of Thayer, Ike Kight, of Fair Oaks, W.T. Kight, of Hegewisch, and Sam Kight, of this place. She has been in poor health for the past 35 years, 3 years being bed fast. She was a patient sufferer and her influence for good will long be felt.

   (The above obituary was written by the deceased two years prior to her death.)

   The funeral services were held on Friday October 30, from her late home. Interment in the Rose Lawn Cemetery.

   (From the Shelby-Thayer News October 31, 1903)

Herman Knapp

   Herman Knapp, 58, died at the Ade Memorial hospital last Wednesday following a stroke.  He was a patient there but a short time.  Funeral services were conducted Saturday at the Sheetz funeral home in Lowell with the pastor of the Roselawn Methodist church officiating.  He was trustee of Lincoln township having been appointed to serve the unexpired term of Lynn Crawford in the fall of 1961 and was serving his second elected term.

   Mr. Knapp was born in Austria and came to the U.S. when about 14 years of age.  He was naturalized here in 1930.

   He is survived by his wife, four children and two brothers, Alois and Peter Knapp, and one sister.

Max A. Korth

   Max A. Korth, 70, of Demotte, Indiana, passed away on Monday, August 5, 1996.  He is survived by three sons, James Korth of Lebanon, Indiana, Steve (Debbie) Korth of Lebanon, Indiana, Scotty (Mercy) Korth of Japan; two step daughters, Patsy (Willard) Montgomery of School Craft, Michigan, Nancy (Lloyd) Taylor of Crown Point; 13 grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; one sister, Verna Pech, of Richton Park, Illinois.  He was preceded in death by his wife, Mary D. in 1991 and his sister, Bertha Mott.

   A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday at 10:00 a.m. at the Sheets Funeral Home, 604 E. Commercial Ave., Lowell, Indiana.  Pastor Thomas Norwalk officiating.  Cremation preceding at Oakland Memory Lanes in Dolton, Illinois.  Burial of remains will take place at Roselawn Cemetery at a later date.

   Mr. Korth was a World War II Army veteran and a member of the American Legion in Roselawn and Lowell VFW Post #6841.

William Korth

   William M. Korth, 92, of Roselawn, Indiana, died at 3:45 p.m., Friday at the Lake Holiday Manor Nursing Home in Roselawn.

   The son of Max and Bertha Korth, he was born May 3, 1895, in Illinois.  He was a lifetime area resident.

   Korth was a retired Standard Oil distributor.

   Survivors include one sister, Elsie Dwyer, Oak Brook, Illinois.  He had four grandchildren and seven grandchildren.

   Funeral services were conducted at 10:30 a.m., Monday at the Todd-Cooprider Funeral Home in DeMotte, with the Rev. Robert Bernard officiating.  Burial was in Roselawn Cemetery.

   (The Republican, October 5, 1987)

Myra L. Knapp

   Myra L. Knapp, aged 83, of Lincoln Township, passed away on Wednesday, October 12, 1994.

   She is survived by three sons, Martin (Connie) Knapp of Lincoln Township, Ralph (Joanne) Knapp of Lincoln Township, Ray (Carol) Knapp of West Bend, Wisconsin; one daughter Allegra (Paul) McCurtain of Roselawn; 12 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren, one sister Cyrina Chunat of Wauseka, Wisconsin; and numerous nieces and nephews.

   She was preceded in death by her husband, Herman, in 1961.

   Funeral services were held, Friday, October 14^th at Sheets Funeral Home in Lowell with Pastor Dennis Morros officiating.  Burial was in the Roselawn Cemetery.

   Mrs. Knapp was a member of the Roselawn United Methodist Church, the United Methodist Women; she was a regular at Larry’s Restaurant in Roselawn, a member of the Roselawn Home Ec. Club, and the Bowling League at Lowell Lanes.

   Contributions may be made to the Roselawn United Methodist Church or the Lincoln Township Volunteer Fire Department.

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 L

Cora Liersch

   Cora Marie George Liersch, 69, of 7198 Catherine Street, Merrillville died at 3:30 a.m. Sunday at Broadway  Methodist Hospital in Merrillville.  She had been in failing health for one year.

   The daughter of John Edward Robbins (deceased) and Ida Mae Beckwith (living), she was born April 14, 1919 in Newton County.  She had lived in Merrillville 18 years.  She previously resided in Rensselaer.

   She was married June 7, 1970 in Jasper County to James W. Liersch, who survives.  Her first marriage was April 29, 1939 to Glen R. George, who passed away February 2, 1960.

   She was educated at Mt. Ayr High School, graduating in 1937.  She was a retired retail cashier.

   She was a member of the Trinity Memorial Lutheran Church of Merrillville.  She was a member of P.B.W.

   Survivors include two sons, Robert G. George of Rosedale, Indiana, Ronald A George of Crown Point, one stepson, Peter J. Liersch of Greensboro, North Carolina; two daughters, Mrs. Russell (Donna) Cochran and Estel E. George, both of Rensselaer, one sister, Mrs. Devere (Vivian) Ames of Mt. Ayr.  She had 10 grandchildren.

   Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at the Jackson Funeral Chapel, with the Rev. Gerald Isenberg officiating.  Burial will follow at Weston Cemetery.

  Friends may call the Jackson Funeral Chapel after 2 p.m. today.

   (The Republican September 6, 1988)

Charles C. Lindahl

   Charles C. Lindahl, Sr., 69, Route 1, Lake Village passed away on Tuesday morning June 16, at his residence of an apparent heart attack.

   Born on April 4, 1912 in Beaverville, Illinois, he was the son of John and Mary (Winslow) Lindahl.  A Newton County resident for 49 years, he was a farmer until his retirement in 1977.

   He was married on May 10, 1932 in Kentland to Violet Roadruck, who survives.

   He was a member of the Roselawn United Methodist Church and served as a member of the Newton County Draft Board for 20 years.  He was also a school bus driver for Mt. Ayr and was a 4-H leader for 25 years.

   Also surviving are his mother, five sons, Charles Jr. of Shelby, Delmar of Rensselaer, Richard of DeMotte, Tom of Shelby, and Larry of Crown point; two daughters, Mrs. Alfred (Donna) Thomas of Morocco and Mrs. Allen (Phyllis) Curtis of Fargo, North Dakota.

   He also leaves three brothers, William and Alfred of Morocco, and Robert of Goodland, five sisters, Mrs. Anna McIntee of Rensselaer, Mrs. Ruth Rattin of Beaverville, Illinois, Mrs. Dorothy Vent of Morocco, Mrs. Evaline Mead of Momence, and Mrs. Thomas (Almeda) Deardurff of Morocco.  22 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, one brother and one sister preceded him in death.

   Friends may call at the Cardwell Funeral Home in Morocco Thursday from 2-4 and 6-9 p.m.

   Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. on Friday June 19 with the Rev. Morros officiating.  Burial will follow in the Roselawn Cemetery.

   Memorials may be made to the Lincoln Township Volunteer Fire Department in lieu of flowers.

   (The Republican, January 18, 1981)

Myrtle Lock

   Mrs. Myrtle Lock, 66, passed away suddenly, Friday, September 22, 1944, at her home in Morocco as a result of cerebral hemorrhage.  She was born May 19, 1878, in Amity, Brown County, Indiana, the daughter of Adam and Elizabeth Danford, both of whom preceded her in death.  She was united in marriage to Windsor Lock of Roselawn September 8, l897, and to this union were born six children, two of which died in infancy.

   She received her schooling in the Indiana schools and taught prior to her marriage.  Early in childhood she united with the Mt. Pleasant Baptist church and for a number of years had been a member of the Morocco Methodist church, attending only in spirit as a hearing handicap prevented more active participation.

   For the past thirty-five years, she has been a resident of Newton County and for the past seventeen years a resident of Morocco, where her passing will be mourned by many who will miss her cherry greeting and service.

   Surviving besides the husband, W.O. Lock of Lake Village, are four children: Murrell of Gary, Chester of Ade, Violet at home, and Oscar with the U.S. Army oversees; also grandchildren; five sisters: Mrs. Frank Styck of Morocco, Mrs. Wilfred Bertrand of Joliet, Illinois, Mrs. Joseph Tuntland of Kankakee, Illinois, Mrs. McKinley Hendris of Buckingham, Illinois, and Mrs. Donald Horan of Memphis, Tennessee and a number of nieces and nephews.

   Out of town relatives attending the funeral, in addition to those mentioned above, are: Mrs. Anne Brandt, John Danford of Monon, Mrs. Oscar Danford, Mrs. Early Newberry and Early Lea Newberry of Gary, William Lock of Lake Village, Mr. and Mrs. Ford Luchene and Cecil Iliff of Shelby,  Mrs. Arthur Korth of Roselawn, Kenneth Iliff Wilder of Hammond, Joseph Tuntland, Mr. and Mrs. Ernest Tuntland, Mr. and Mrs. Ambrose Dillibae, and Mrs. Roy Dahling of Kankakee, McKinley Hendrix, Mrs. Marwood Hendrix of Buckingham, Donald Horan of Memphis, Tennessee, Mr. and Mrs. James Styck, Helen and Elwyn of Lake Village, Mr. and Mrs. Harold Severs of Newton, Alabama, Mrs. Charles Marian of Rensselaer and Fern Styck of Watseka, besides a large number of friends and relatives who called and were unable to attend the funeral.

   The funeral was held at the Morocco Methodist church Monday, September 25.  Rev. Duane Thistlethwaite officiating with interment in Oakland cemetery and special rites officiated at the cemetery by the Daughters of Union Veterans.

Samuel Leigh Luce

   Samuel Leigh Luce, born in Orland, Steuben County, Indiana, 31 December 1873 died at Chicago 4 November 1917, age 43 years 11 months 3 days. He resided at Orland and Angola, Indiana until about 5 years ago where his parents moved to Newton County on a farm, afterwards moved to Ft. Wayne. His sister, Mrs. A. Halleck, DeMotte provided a home for him and his mother after his father died. Married Lula A. Spencer, clerk at the general merchandise store of S. McGinnis. Daughter Bernice and sons Howard and Truman, born at DeMotte. 1907 moved to Chicago and established undertaking business at 1648 W. 63^rd Street.

   (Kankakee Valley Review November 22, 1917)

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Dennis B. McDonald

   Dennis B. McDonald, 96, of Morocco, died at 11:48 a.m. Monday, April 7 at the Jasper County Hospital in Rensselaer.

   He was born October 10, 1890 in Grange County, Indiana to George and Nannie Lillian (Bennett) McDonald.

   He was married in Ft. Pierce, Florida on August 114, 1943 to Cora Kalfise.  She preceded him in death in 1994.

   He served in the Navy during World War II.

   He received his masters degree from Ball State University and prior to his retirement he had been employed as an elementary school teacher and principal.

   He was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Morocco, a 50-year member of the Morocco Masonic Lodge No. 372 F & AM, Order of the Eastern Star--Evening Star No. 41; Morocco, American Legion Post No. 146 and the Retired Teachers Association.

   Surviving is a nephew Michael McDonald of Bloomington, Indiana.

   He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife and one brother.

   Funeral services were held Thursday, April 10.  Rev. Tim Powers officiating.

   Interment followed in the Oakland Cemetery.

   Memorials can be made to the First United Methodist Church of Morocco.

   (The Rensselaer Republican, April 11, 1997)

John McGlinn

   After a lingering illness of nearly three years, John McGlinn of Wheatfield died on Thursday July 23, 1903, aged 62 years 7 months 15 days.

   The deceased was a native of Ohio and was born in Hamilton, Hamilton County on December 8, 1840 from which place he moved when quite young to Laurel, Indiana where he married Miss Lorinda Woodward.

   He then moved near Rose Lawn in the year 1882, where he engaged in the construction of the Three I Railroad and telegraph and fence building for about two years afterwards, moving to Nebraska where he resided for five years then returning to Indiana, locating at Kniman, where he engaged in the mercantile business until two years prior to his death, when he moved to Wheatfield.

   He leaves a widow, five daughters, Mrs. Chas Gundy of Fair Oaks, Mrs. Elsie Grow, of Rensselaer, Mrs. Emory Cox of Gifford, Madames William Holley and Ralph Brown of Kniman and son John W. McGlinn of Wheatfield.

   Interment in the Wheatfield Cemetery.

   (From the Shelby-Thayer News August 1, 1902)

Wilma Hazel Massie

   Wilma Hazel Massie, age 83, of Roselawn passed away at 11:38 p.m. Friday, October 23, 1996 at St. Anthony Medical Center, Crown Point, Indiana.

   Born in North English County, Iowa on July 12, 1913, she was the daughter of Virgil Davis Massie and Elsie Pearl (Carter) Massie.  She had been a resident since October 16, 1945, having previously lived in Lake County, Hammond-Gary.

   She owned and operated Hi-Ho Food Store in Roselawn from 1967 to 1978.

   She was a member of the Roselawn United Methodist Church, United Methodist Women, former Sunday school superintendent and teacher, and a member of Newton County Extension Homemakers.  As church historian, she compiled "The History of Roselawn United Methodist Church" 75 and 100 year anniversary books.

   Survivors include several cousins, Harold Massie and Clifford Massie, both of Washington, Indiana, William Massie, Canton, Ohio, Geraldine (Lee) Winkler, Tucson, Arizona, Eloise Gifford, Ft. Worth, Texas; a great cousin, Judy Ellsworth, La Marada, California and dear friends, Wilma Moore, Tucson, Arizona and Norma (Harry) Hayes, Roselawn.

   Funeral services were held Monday, October 28, 1996 at Family Service Group, Todd-Steinke Chapel, DeMotte with burial following in Roselawn Cemetery.

Elizabeth F. “Betty” Mattocks

   Elizabeth F. “Betty” Mattocks, 80, of Demotte, Indiana passed away Sunday, June 21, 1998 at 11:50 p.m. at the Rensselaer Care Center.

   Born December 24, 1917 in DeMotte, Elizabeth is the daughter of Allen “Dutch” and Laura (Gilmore) White.  A life resident of DeMotte, Elizabeth married Lee Mattocks in Jasper County on December 24, 1942.  He preceded her in death on July 4, 1988.

   Elizabeth attended DeMotte High School and worked at the Hockney Store and Hockney Slaughter House.  She was also employed at Previous Ray’s Auction in Lake Village.  She was a member of the Roselawn United Methodist Church and the O.E.S. Evening Star Chapter #41.

   Survivors include: Tina Livengood, daughter, DeMotte, Indiana, Catherine (Leonard) Swart, sister, DeMotte, Indiana, Julia Eaton, sister, Rensselaer, Indiana.

   Funeral services were held Thursday, June d25, 1998 at the Todd-Steinke Chapel in DeMotte with Reverend John Weeks officiating.  Interment took place at Memory Gardens cemetery in Rensselaer.

Anthony Miller

      The suddenness of the death of Anthony Miller, of Thayer, who passed away with scarcely a moment’s warning Saturday, June 7^th was a shock to his many friends.

   Anthony Miller was a foreigner by birth.  The records pertaining to his boyhood were lost in the Chicago fire and the exact date of birth and place are unknown.  Mr. Miller was about 69 years of age.  He came from Albany, N.Y., to Chicago about nineteen years ago and has resided for the past seven years on a small farm adjoining the town of Thayer.  He leaves a wife, two sons and three daughters and father.  The funeral occurred on Monday and the remains were followed to the Rose Lawn Cemetery by a large concourse of friends and relatives.

   (From the June 14, l902 issue of Kankakee Valley Review)

Mount M. Miller

   Mount M. Miller, 80, died suddenly at his home on Rt. 1 Lake Village.  Death was attributed to a heart attack.

   Born in North Judson on September 12, 1896, he was a son of George and Angelea (Loring) Miller.  He was married to Lida Mosher on September 14, 1921 in Starke County.

   A resident of Newton County since 1929, he attended Stark County schools and Purdue University.  A retired farmer, he was a veteran of World War I, serving with the U. S. Army.

   He was a member of Masonic Lodge 372 of Morocco, a charter member of North Judson American Legion, WWI Barracks No. 219 and had served as Newton County Commissioner from 1950 to 1962.

   Surviving with the wife are one daughter, Mrs. Charles (Dorothy) Lindahl Jr. of Shelby; five sons, Raymond M. of San Pierre, William A. of DeMotte, Wayne W. of Fair Oaks, Howard H. of Wheatfield and Devon L. Miller of Lake Village; 18 grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.  He was preceded in death by two brothers and three sisters.

   Funeral services will be conducted from Jackson Funeral Chapel at 1:30 p.m. Tuesday with the Rev. Harry McCorkel officiating.  Interment will follow in Memory Gardens of Rensselaer.  Friends are now being received at the chapel, where Masonic services will be held at 8 p.m.

   Those who wish to contribute to the Heart Fund may do so by requesting the proper envelopes from the chapel.

Charles Mosley

   Charles Ray Mosley, 88, of DeMotte passed away April 20^th, 1999. He was born in Chicago on June 27, 1911.  He was married to Sadie Shelhart.

   Survivors include Betty Lou Vakarus of Florida, Tim Mosley of Missouri, Georgeann Hillsman of DeMotte, four step-children, a foster son, and a brother.  Family Service Funeral Home, Miller Chapel, DeMotte is in charge of arrangements.

Charles Ray Mosley

   Charles Ray Mosley, 88, of DeMotte, died on Thursday, April 20, 2000, at his residence. He was a 45-year resident of the DeMotte area.

   He was born on June 27, 1911 in Chicago, Illinois to Mr. and Mrs. Charles R. Mosley.

   He married Sadie Shelhart.  She preceded him in death.

   He was a small engine technician at Montgomery Wards for 15 years, retiring in l975.

   He is survived by two daughters, Betty Lou Vicari of Florida and Georgeann Hillsman of DeMotte, one son, Tim Mosley of Missouri; one foster son, Darrell Vera of Hibbs, Alabama; four step-children, Myrtle (Bob) Rustik of DeMotte, Linda (Bruce) Carroll of DeMotte, Steve (Darlene) Wendelburg of Thayer, and Sharon (Ron) Harvey of DeMotte, and one brother, John Mosley of Oxford.

   Visitation will be held on Friday, April 21 from 2 to 8 p.m. at the Family Service Funeral Home, Todd-Miller Chapel in DeMotte.

   Funeral services will be held on Saturday, April 22 at 12 p.m. at the funeral home with Pastor David Buche officiating.

   Burial will take place in the Roselawn Cemetery.

   Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society.

Sadie E. Mosley

   Sadie E. Mosley, 60, Rt. 1, DeMotte (Thayer), died at 12:30 p.m., Sunday, April 19, l987 at St. Anthony Medical Center, Crown Point.  She had been in failing health for 2 l/2 years.

   Born April 13, 1927 in Medaryville, she was the daughter of Melvin and Myrtle Elliott Shelhart.  She had been an area resident for 49 years, having previously lived in Fair Oaks.

   She was a former member of the Roselawn Methodist Church and was active with crafts and gardening.

   On May 22, 1957 at Lowell, she married Charles Roy Mosley.

   Surviving with the husband are her father; four daughters, Mrs. Robert (Myrtle) Rustik, Thayer and Mrs. Ron (Sharyn) Harvey, Mrs. Bruce (Linda) Carroll and Mrs. Bob (Georgeann) Hillsman, DeMotte; one son, Steve Wendelburg, Thayer; one adopted son, Daryl Hibbs, Verberan, Ala.; one stepson, Jim Mosley, Corpus Christi, Texas; one stepdaughter, Mrs. Anthony (Betty Lou) Viciar, Crown Point; one sister, Mary Bruechet, Lake Village; and one brother, John Shelhart, Lowell.

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Chas William Newbold

   Chas William Newbold, son of Thomas and Eliva Newbold born 26 November 1856 at Newport, Madison County, Ohio. Moved to Indiana in 1866 and located near Francesville, Pulaski County. Married Lyda E. Madeowse, daughter of Frederick and Dora Madeowse, on 8 November 1877. Four children, one daughter and three sons: Urvie C., Bessie, Frederick, and Thomas. Moved to Water Valley in 1891. Two sons, Frederick and Thomas died in 1893. Chas William Newbold died 23 July 1918 at Water Valley, age 61 years 7 months 21 days. Three brothers: Harvey, Henry, and Thomas. Burial Roselawn Cemetery.

   (Kankakee Valley Review August 1, 1918

Mary Jane (Johnson) Nichols

   Mary Jane Johnson born in Vermont July 11, 1844 moved to Momence, Kankakee County, with her parents when a small child. She married Jacob Nichols January 1, 1860. Ten children; six boys and four girls, two of which died in infancy were born to them..

   In 1862 moved to Newton County, Indiana where the town of Conrad now stands. In 1906 they moved to Moore, Cleveland County, Oklahoma, where they resided until 1915 when death took her husband, and she returned to Newton County, Indiana to live with her children.

   She departed this life January 19, 1918 at the home of her daughter Mrs. George Corbin at Mt. Ayr, Indiana, age 73 years 6 months 7 days.

   She leaves to mourn her loss seven children: Mrs. May Teeter of Claremont, California, John L. of Conrad, Indiana, Clarence L. of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Arthur L. of LeRoy, Illinois, Samuel L. of Benton Harbor, Michigan, Mrs. N.A. Slusser of Villa Grove, Illinois, and Mrs. George Corbin of Mt. Ayr, Indiana, sixteen grandchildren and four great grandchildren.

   Funeral was held at the M.E. Church at Momence, Illinois on Tuesday. Burial Nichols Cemetery at the Six Mile Grove.

   (Kankakee Valley Review January 31, 1918)

 Ruth Darlene Niehof

   Ruth Darlene Niehof, 63, of Jacksonville, Florida, formerly of DeMotte, Indiana, passed away Tuesday, November 12, 1996 at her residence.  She is survived by two daughters Lois (John) Robatto of Crown Point and  Darlene (Marty) Campbell of Jacksonville, Florida; one son Bill (Cindy) Niehof of Jacksonville, seven grandchildren, two sisters “Vi” (Phil) Jonkman of Wheatfield and “Deno” (Henry) Kampenga of Wheatfield and two brothers, George (Florence) Schoon of Lansing and Lloyd (Melrose) Schoon of Lake Village.  She was preceded in death by father, Dick Schoon; mother, Dorothy (Eenigenburg) Schoon and brother, Rich Schoon.

   Funeral services will be held on Saturday, November 16, 1996 at10:30 a.m. at the Jackson Funeral Home with Rev. Lary Sakel officiating, Interment, Holland Cemetery, DeMotte.

   Mrs. Niehof was born on April 23, 1933 in Lansing, Illinois, the daughter of Dick and Dorothy (Eenigenburg) Schoon; was a graduate of Mt. Ayr High School, Class of 1951, was a bookkeeper with Hicksgas for 10 years and a DeMotte school bus driver for 10 years before moving to Jacksonville, Florida, where she was a manager of Little Champ for six years.  Memorials may be given to the American Cancer Society

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   Frederick Raymond Otis

   Frederick R. Otis died in Chicago December 17, 1903 in the 79^th year of his age. He has well known by the people in the north part of Jasper and Newton counties where he had been interested in the developers in Union, Kenner, and Lincoln Townships. His first purchase of Indiana land in this section was from the government in January 1855. He continued to purchase land in this locality from time to time until his present holdings amounted to ten thousand acres.

   This land when purchased was mostly in a wild state without drainage or roads and on account of its not being ditched was unsuitable for farming. Twenty years ago he commenced the construction of ditches so as to drain this tract of and make it suitable for farming purposes. The work he continued at a considerable expense to him until most of the land was drained. But it was a wise expenditure, for where formerly there was a wilderness, today may be seen the cultivated fields and the homes o many families.

   Mr. Otis took a great pride in breeding a fine live stock and conducted on his land a large live stock and dairy business. He had a herd of about four hundred cows and made dairy shipments of milk to Chicago.

   When he lived in Ohio he was interested in the buying of cattle through northern Ohio and for shipment to the New York Market.

   He was the last living of the four Otis brothers, James, Lucius B., Frederick R. and Joseph E. all of whom were Chicago Pioneers. Mr. Otis suffered a stroke and paralysis in 1899 and had been a invalid ever since. For the last three weeks he had been in failing health.
   Frederick Raymond Otis was a descendant of John Otis, who came from England and settled in Hingham, Massachusetts in 1635. Frederick Otis was born in Berlin, Ohio February 10, 1835 where he engaged in live stock and farming until he became of age, when he and his brother James founded the first bank at Milan, Ohio.

   News of the “new city” on the great lakes, called Chicago, reached Mr. Otis and in 1849 he decided to investigate the possibilities to be found there. As there was no railroad connection with Chicago at that time, he drove overland, arriving in September of that year and remaining some weeks, making a general observation of the locality and the existing conditions.

   From that time on he made frequent trips to Chicago, investing occasionally in real estate, before he located there permanently with his family in December 1869. On his first visit to Chicago in 1849, he predicted a great future for the city and continued buying real estate, making his investments with much care and judgment.

   So great was his faith in these investments that he would not sell any of his property, and time proved his wisdom in this particular. His investments, like those of his three brothers, were made in centrally located property, and consequently at the time of the fire in 1871 he suffered a considerable loss. This, however, was largely repaired within a short time and since then the history of Mr. Otis’ holdings in real estate, had been similar to the history of Chicago progress.

   Mr. Otis was married December 27, 1848 to Miss Emeline Tillinghurst, daughter of Oliver Tillinghurst, of Berlin, Ohio. Their children, all of whom are living in Chicago are Charles T. Otis, Lucius J. Otis, Margaretta E. Otis, Mrs. H.H. Deming, Mrs. Lucius A. Hine, and Mrs. William G. Sage. One sister; Mrs. A. H. Metter of Fremont, Ohio, also survives him.

   (Shelby-Thayer News, December 28, 1903)

Joseph E. Otis

    Joseph E. Otis, an early settler of Chicago, died at his home in that city on March 7, 1902. Soon after the railroad was built through this place, he bought one thousand acres of land about three miles east of Rose Lawn adjoining the present Otis ranch, owned by his brother, Frederick R. Otis.  While his land was being improved he made frequent trips from Chicago to this place.  He sold his land some years ago.

   He was born in Berlin, Erie county, Ohio, April 30, 1830, moved to Chicago at an early date and was largely engaged in real estate business of that city.  In 1868 he with others organized the Chicago Fire Insurance Company.  Mr. Otis was elected a member of the board of Chicago aldermen in 1870.  In recent years he retired from active business, spending much of his time abroad.  He was always an extensive traveler, visiting most of the civilized countries and in 1894 made a trip around the world.

   His wife and four children survive.

   (Kankakee Valley Review, March 14, 1902)

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Mayme Petitgean

   Funeral services for Mrs. Mayme Petitgean, 96, of Morocco were held at 2 p.m. Saturday, April 10, 1971 in the Hancock-Weston Funeral Home, Inc. in Morocco with the Rev. John Grove officiating.

   Mrs. Petitgean died at 4:45 p.m. Wednesday in the Haven of Rest Nursing Home in Beaverville, Illinois where she had been since 1968.

   She was born March 18, 1875 in Morocco, the daughter of William and Anna (Smith) Beckwith.  She married Roy Petitgean in Kentland in 1900.  He died in 1957.  She was a member of the Christian Church of Morocco.

   For many years she operated the Home Restaurant in Morocco and in later years a restaurant in Lake Village.

   Survivors are a daughter, Mrs. Mable DeVelde of Morocco and Sun City, Arizona; a brother William Beckwith of Arizona; three sisters, Mrs. Maude Morton, Crystal Lake, Illinois, Mrs. Hazel Faus and Mrs. Ida Robbins both of Mt. Ayr; 4 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren.

   Friends called after 5 p.m. Friday at the Hancock-Weston Funeral Home.  Burial was in the Oakland cemetery, Morocco.

    (Morocco Courier, April 15, 1971)

Bessie Potucek

   Bessie Potucek, age 102, of Valparaiso, and a former resident of Lincoln Township, passed away October 21, 1996 at the Life Care Center in Valpo.

   She was born February 23, 1894 in Chicago, Illinois and was the daughter of Louis A. and Mary Potucek

   She had lived at Bluegrass and had been the owner of a salvage store in Thayer and raised Chihuahua dogs.  Her first store is said to have been between Hicksgas of Thayer and Pate N Place and then she had a larger building on the NE corner of SR 55 & Thayer-DeMotte Road.  The store on 55 & Thayer-DeMotte Road was later owned by the Lovealls and then Della Steinhauer.  That building burned down about 20 years ago.

   Survivors are two nephews, Joseph C. Potucek of Valpo and William L. Potucek of LaPorte.  Private entombment took place at Swan Lake Memorial Gardens in Michigan City.

James Franklin Press

   James Franklin Press born Nebraska 23 June 1888 and died at his home in Shelby 1 November 1918, age 30 years 4 months 7 days when a small child he moved with his parents to Illinois. There he lived until about 15 years ago when he came to Shelby. Married Anna Cross, of Shelby, 7 October 1908 at Crown Point. Five children: Weston, James, Kenneth, Pauline, and Irene. Burial Hebron Cemetery.

   (Kankakee Valley Review November 14, 1918)

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William H. Ray

   William H. Ray was born in Union County, Indiana October 29, 1832 and departed this life at Shelby, Indiana March 19, 1915 age 82 years 4 months 20 days. He confessed his faith in Jesus Christ at Greensburg, Indiana at the age of 18 years. He united in marriage to Margaret Bailey at Rushville, Indiana July 12, 1857. To this union were born nine children, of those two have preceded the father to the great beyond. The seven children living are Benjamin F. Ray, Rushville, Nebraska, Mary A. Cole, New York Mills, Minnesota, Robert N. Ray and Laura Luchene, Blue Island, Illinois, Helen Davis, Lowell, Indiana, Louisa Cheever, of DeMotte, Indiana. There are 50 grandchildren, and 15 great grandchildren together with the widow who mourn the loss of a loving husband and father. William R. Ray was ordained elder at the Westpoint Church of Christ in 1863 and since that time has been active in every community in which he has lived. Twenty years ago he moved to Shelby and has lived an upright Christian life.

   The funeral services were held Sunday at the Church of Christ, conducted by Rev. Van Orvan. The pallbearers were James Pinkerton, Stewart Stowell, Chas Brown, Manford Cross, Chas Mantu, and William Belshaw. Interment in the Rose Lawn Cemetery.

Frank Regnier

   Frank Regnier born in Montreal, Canada 29 October 1848 and died Gary, Indiana 5 August 1918 at the age of 69 years 9 months 7 days. He came to Kankakee County, Illinois with his parents at the age of 7 years old and lived there till he went to Kansas, at the age of 21 he married at Louisville, Kansas to Amelia Patenode, 23 November 1874. Thirteen children, all of whom and the widow survive: Mrs. Sam Sirois, Mrs. Wesley Brasket, Mrs. Silas Latta, George Regnier of Shelby, Mrs. F.F. Duranleau, Miss Esther Regnier and Laurence Regnier of Gary, Elmer of Hammond, Louis and Meddie of Schneider, Oscar of Riverdale, Illinois, Victor of Edgeton, Ohio and Benjamin of Laurel, Montana.

   He came of a family of thirteen children, seven survive: Fred of Minnesota, Mrs. Mary Fortin of Michigan, Lucin of Bourbonnais, Illinois, and Alech, John Grady and Mose of Saskatchewan, Canada.

   Service at St. Edwards Church, Lowell. Burial St. Edwards Cemetery.

   (Kankakee Valley Review August 15, 1918)

Albert Lee Rowan

   Albert Lee Rowan, who was an important and popular figure in Union township farming circles for many years as a resident of the Fair Oaks area, died at Jasper County Hospital at 1:35 p.m. Saturday following declining health extending over a period of five years.  His condition assumed a critical aspect ten days ago and since that time his life had ebbed steadily.  He entered the hospital April 14th.

   Mr. Rowan had resided in the Fair Oaks community since 1923 and previous to coming to Jasper County he lived near Danville in Vermillion County, Illinois, where he was born December 18, 1877, and Talbert, Morocco and Brook, Indiana.  It was from the latter place that he moved to Jasper County.

    Mr. Rowan was a son of Amos Rowan and Mary (Makemson) Rowan.  During his early youth the family moved to Talbert and it was there that he attended school.  Shortly following his school career he entered upon the farming career that he followed throughout his lifetime.  His marriage to Miss Myrtle Odle took place at Fair Oaks March 5, 1902.  She passed away April 19, 1942.

   Mr. Rowan was a member of the United Brethren church.

   An excellent citizen by every measurement by which good citizenship is judged, a successful farmer and a community builder. Mr. Rowan had the deep respect and admiration of his fellowman.  He was a faithful worker for community betterment and contributed to the many phases of daily life that advance the welfare and happiness of a community.  He was a kind and generous man and a friend whose death brings sorrow to many homes.

   Surviving him are the following children:  Robert Rowan of Salina, Kansas, Mrs. Glen Mattocks of Walkerton, Mrs. Everett Bozelle of Fair Oaks, Mrs. Clarence Stowers of Wheatfield, Mrs. George Handley of Thayer, and John "Jack" Rowan, Glen "Bud" Rowan and Mrs. Everett McFadden, all of Rensselaer.  Also surviving him is a sister, Mrs. Josephine McDonald, of Thorntown, sixteen grandchildren and fourteen great-grandchildren.  The Rev. Ellis Veale officiating.  Interment will be at Weston cemetery.

   The funeral services will be held from Jackson Funeral Chapel at 1 o’clock, Tuesday.         

   (Submitted by Vivian Mauck)

Herbert E. "Ching" Rude

   Herbert E. "Ching" Rude, 80, a former resident of Monticello and Rensselaer, died at 3:30 p.m. Saturday afternoon at Saint Luke's Hospital, Maumee, Ohio.

   He had been living with a son, Neil Rude, in Maumee, for the past two years.

   Born September 27, 1903, in Frankfort, Indiana, he was the son of Oscar and Ida Rude.

   He was married November 13, 1926, to Hilda Jensen, who died September 30, 1980

   Survivors include his son and two grandchildren.

   Other survivors include a brother, Glen Rude, of Fair Oaks, and two sisters: Mildred Wildrick, West Harrison, Indiana; and Gladys Martin, Fair Oaks.

   One son preceded him in death.

   He was a member of the United Methodist Church at Monticello and of the Senior Citizens Club there.  He had lived at Monticello 27 years, moving there from Fair Oaks.  He was employed as a section foreman on the Monon Railroad for 42 years prior to his retirement in 1969.

   Funeral services will be held at the Miller-Voorhis Funeral Home at Monticello at noon, Tuesday, with Rev. Robert Lewis officiating. Interment will follow at Memory Gardens at Rensselaer.

   Friends may call at the funeral home from 10 a.m. Tuesday until the time of the funeral.

   (October 10, 1985)

Harold E. Rusk

   Harold E. Rusk, 71, died suddenly at his home in Salome, Arizona, on Wednesday November 18, 1992.

   He was born January 13, 1924 in Francesville, Indiana to Clarence and Mary Marie Bridgett Rusk.

   He was married to Betty Davis Ford, who survives.  He attended Newton County schools and was a 1939 graduate of Mt. Ayr High School.  He had been employed as a mechanic, truck driver and bus driver.

   Survivors include his wife, four daughters, Myrna Rusk, Morocco, Nancy (James) Denham, Griffith, Penny Rusk, Monticello, Sharyl (Gerry) Brown, Fowler; five sons, Thomas, Fair Oaks, Michal (Barbara), Monticello, Jeffery (Darlene), Brookston; Steven (Faith) Remington; and Charles, Kentland.  Three stepsons, Danny Ford, Bowling Green, Kentucky, Donny Ford, Lake Charles and L.A., California; and Richard Ford, Lawton, Oklahoma.

    Also two brothers, Richard (Mary Ann),  Logansport, Indiana, Jerry (Vera), Williamsport, two sisters Tressibel (Mrs. Ellis) Kelley, Rensselaer, Indiana and Vivian (Mrs. William) Mauck, Fair Oaks.  Also several grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.  He was preceded in death by his parents and one son.

   Graveside rites and burial will take place in Parker, Arizona, Monday, November 23 at 11 a.m. MST.

Cecilla Rustik

      Cecilla Rustik,  75, or 10924 N. 400 E. DeMotte, Indiana (Roselawn area), passed away at 11 p.m., Monday, May 6, 1996, at St. Anthony’s Medial Center, Crown Point, Indiana.

   She was born September 26, 1920 in Chicago, Illinois to Joseph and Mary Podgorski.

   She was a 1940 graduate of Mt. Ayr High School.

   On August 20, 1946, she was married to Stanley P. Rustik.

   She was employed at Permonite in Morocco, where she worked for twenty-two years.

   Mrs. Rustik belonged to the Morocco Senior Citizens Bunco club.

   Survivors include one son, Robert (Myrtle) Rustik of Roselawn, four daughters, Regina (Jerry) Anderson, of Leiters Ford, Indiana, Susan (John) Reed, Mary (Rich) Harwood both of Roselawn, and Jana (Michael) Stedman of Momence, Illinois.  Ten grandchildren.  She was preceded in death by her parents, two brothers, one sister, a grandson and her husband Stanley, who passed away August 13, 1994.

   Funeral services will be held Friday, May 9, 1996 at the Todd-Steinke Funeral Home, DeMotte, with Father Paul R. Wicklum officiating.  Interment will be at the Roselawn Cemetery.

  Memorials may be given to the American Cancer Society.

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Beatrice M. (Ostrom) Sanderson

  Beatrice M. (Ostrom) Sanderson, 61, of rural DeMotte died Saturday, August 27 in Libby, Montana.

   Born on June 27, 1922 in Westby, Wisconsin, she was the daughter of Carl and Bergina (Solberg) Stigen who are deceased.

   She was previously married to Ralph Ostrom who died in 1978.  She later married Melvin Sanderson of Libby, Montana.  He survives.

   Also surviving are three sons, Ronald Ostrom, Malibu, California, Robert Ostrom, Memphis, Tennessee and Ralph "Bud" Ostrom, Bolingbrook, Illinois.  Seven grandchildren and one great-grandchild also survive.

   Six sisters also survive.  Mrs. Alice Rose, DeMotte, Mrs. Norma Specht, Merrillville, Mrs. Ellen Kroening, Ladysmith, Wisconsin, Mrs. Verna Perona, Ladysmith, Wisconsin, Mrs. Evelyn Carr, Bruce, Wisconsin and Mrs. Idella Sandell, Fair Oaks, Alabama.

   Mrs. Sanderson had been a resident of DeMotte for the past 34 years.  She had been a former member of the Presbyterian Church in Thayer.

   A funeral will be held Thursday, September 1, at 2:p.m. at the Todd-Hughes Funeral Home in DeMotte.  The Rev. John VanScapen will officiate.  Burial will be in the Roselawn Cemetery in Roselawn. Friends may call at the Todd-Hughes Funeral Home in DeMotte from 2-9 p.m. Wednesday, August 31.

  (From The Rensselaer Republican, August 30, 1983)

Marjorie L. Scott

   Marjorie L. Scott, 75, of Thayer, died at 11 a.m., Thursday, April 10 at St. Margaret's Mercy Hospital in Dyer.

  She was born September 11, 1921 in Lawrenceville, Illinois to Charles T. and Grace Matilda (Rae) Alspach.

   She had been a resident of DeMotte and Thayer since 1981.

   On March 23, 1940, in St. Louis, Missouri, she married Wade Scott, who preceded her in death March 18, 1985.

   She was educated at Pinhook School in Millersville, Illinois.  She was a homemaker.

   She was a former member of the First Church of the Nazarene of Hammond.  She was a member of the Kankakee Valley Seniors Club of Shelby, Indiana and a former member of the Moose Lodge of Whiting, Indiana.

   She is survived by two daughters, Carol Takacs of Glendale, Arizona and Diana (Arthur) Deaton of Hillham, Tennessee; one son, Larry W. (Joann) Scott of Dyer; and one brother, Frederick Alspach of Wheatfield.

   She was preceded in death by one grandchild, one husband and seven brothers.

   Visitation will be held at 2-5 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. Sunday, April 13 at Family Service Group, Todd-Steinke Chapel in DeMotte.

   Interment will follow at Chapel Lawn Cemetery in Schererville.

   (The Rensselaer Republican, April 11, 1997)

Cornelius “Kewie” Sekema

    Cornelius “Kewie” Sekema, 82, of DeMotte, died at 1:16 p.m., December 23, 1997 at St. Anthony Medical Center in Crown Point.

   He was born November 2, 1915 in Lake County to Edward and Rena (Ploegsma) Sekema.

   On July 11, 1940 in Roselawn he married Marie Boezeman, who survives.

   Mr. Sekema attended DeMotte Public Schools, was a farmer and a school bus driver for North Newton School Corporation for 20 years.  He lived on the family farm for 58 years and was an avid Chicago Cubs fan.

   Survivors, including his wife are: two daughters; Mrs. Donna (Richard) Lindahl, of DeMotte; Mrs. Sharon (Hank) Schlueter, of Lowell; one son, Carl (Cheryl) Sekema, of West Chicago, Illinois; two sisters Mrs. Grace (Henry) Tanis, of DeMotte, Mrs. Johanna (Robert) Walstra, of DeMotte; one brother, Kenneth (Martha) Sekema, of DeMotte; six grandchildren: Deanna, Randy, Ron, Heath, Christopher and Caitlyn.

   He is preceded in death by his parents.

   Visitation will be held at the Jackson Funeral Service of DeMotte from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m., Friday, December 26^th.

   Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, December 27^th at the funeral service with Pastor Ronald Redder officiating.  Interment will follow in the Holland Cemetery in DeMotte.

   Memorials may be made to Lincoln Township Volunteer Fire Department.

Leona A. Sembicki

   Leona A. Sembicki (nee David), age 78, of Lake Village, Indiana, passed away on Monday, February 23, 1998.  She is survived by 1 daughter, Karen (Roger) Pratali, of Nashville, Tennessee; 1 grandchildren, Robert and Sheri Pratali; 1 brother, Charles (Cathy) David, of Roselawn.  She was preceded in death by her husband, Richard in 1992.

   Funeral services will be held on Friday at 11 a.m. at the Sheets Funeral Home, 604 E. Commercial Ave., Lowell, Indiana, Father Thomas Mischler, officiating.  Burial will follow at Roselawn Cemetery in Roselawn, Indiana.  Friends are invited to call on Thursday from 2-5 p.m. and 7-9 p.m.; at the funeral home.

Myrtle Belle Shelhart

   Myrtle Belle Shelhart, 79, Thayer died Wednesday, January 25, 1984 at 3:30 a.m.

   She died at the Lake Holiday Manor Nursing Home after being in declining health for five years.  She was a resident of Thayer 45 years and lived previously in Fair Oaks.

   On June 12, 1904 she was born in Gillam Township in Jasper County, the daughter of Ace and Sadie (Schroll) Elliott.  She was educated in Gillam Township Schools and was a member of the Methodist Church.  She married Melvin Francis Shelhart on December 30, 1922 in Monticello.

   She is survived by her husband, Melvin, and three children: Mary Bruechet, Lake Village; Roy (Sadie) Mosley, DeMotte; and John W. “Sonny” Shelhart, Lowell.  Also surviving are 17 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren and one great-great grandchild.

   A brother and a sister also survive: Harvey Elliott, Mt. Ayr, and Dee Elliott, Mishawaka.  Two sisters preceded her in death.

   Funeral services were held at 1:30 p.m. Friday, January 27, at the Jackson Funeral Chapel in Rensselaer with Rev. W. Lynn Henry officiating.  Interment was at the Crockett Cemetery.

David R. Smith Sr.

   David R. Smith Sr., 63, of Roselawn died at his residence on October 21, at 12:15 p.m.

   Born on May 24, 1927, in Foresman, he was the son of Thomas and Cuba (Lockerd) Smith, who are both deceased.

   He was a lifetime resident of the area, and on May 6, 1954, in DeMotte he married Thelma Armstrong, who survives.  He was educated in the Roselawn schools and was a member of the U.S. Army, serving in the Korean conflict.

   He was also employed at Hick's Gas in Thayer for 20 years, retiring in 1989 and was a member of the First Baptist Church of Kouts.

   Surviving are sons and daughters, Mrs. Robert (Pamela) Northcutt, of DeMotte; David R. Smith Jr., of Roselawn, Mrs. Gordon (Cynthia) Barker of Wisconsin; and Kenneth Smith of Illinois; brothers and sisters, Mae Hall and Margaret Reeves, both of Griffith; Nancy Cox of Roselawn, Faye Luttrell, of Rensselaer; Thomas Smith of Gary and Robert and Gerald Smith, both of Lake Village; and six grandchildren.

   He was preceded in death by one sister.

   Friends may call at the Jackson Funeral Service of DeMotte from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. on October 23.

   Funeral services will be held at Jackson's on Wednesday, October 24, at 2 p.m. with Pastor Phil Morgan officiating

   Burial will follow in Roselawn Cemetery.

   (The Republican, October 23, 1990)

Ethel Grace Smith

   Ethel Grace (Studer) Smith, 93, of St. Cloud, Florida, passed away Tuesday, November 15, 1994 at St. Cloud Health Care Center.

   She was born June 21, 1991, to Adolf and Dora (Eastwood) Studer in Newton County.

   Mrs. Smith was self-employed at a restaurant in Monticello and also performed T.B. x-rays for White County.  She was a member of the United Methodist Church, and also the Order of the Eastern Star of Monticello chapter.

   She was married to Logan Smith who preceded her in death.

   Surviving are two brothers, Albert A. Studer of St. Cloud, Florida, and Theodore Studer of Kissimmee, Florida.  Several nieces and nephews also survive.

   She was preceded in death by two brothers, Clarence and Melvin Studer.

   There will be no public visitation.  Graveside funeral services will be held Monday, November 21, 1994 at 2 p.m. at the Roselawn Cemetery in Roselawn.

   (The Republican, November 19, 1994)

Emmanuel Sollars

   Emmanuel Sollars was born at Eugene, Vermillion County, Indiana, on August 27, 1842.  He died at Shelby February 15, 1915 age 72 years 5 months 18 days. He and his wife moved to this vicinity some 30 years ago and Shelby. His wife died June 16, 1907 having been blind several years before death in 1910 he married Rettie Ferguson, who survives him. To the first union 2 daughters were born, Flora Cox and Nancy Struble of this place and one adopted son Isaac of Chicago. Also three brothers and one sister survive him: Lon of Blue Grass, Illinois, John and Asa of Potomac, Illinois and Mrs. Lou Uder of Lowell, and ten grandchildren. Funeral from M.E. Church. Burial at Orchard Grove.

   (From the Kankakee Valley Review, February,    1915)

Anna Beatrice (Brady) Spitler

   Anna Beatrice (Brady) Spitler was born 12 April 1877 at Kankakee, Illinois and departed this life 30 July 1914. Her younger years were spent near Momence, Illinois. In 1893 she came to this vicinity and has lived here up to the time of her marriage to John R. Spitler of North Judson, Indiana, which occurred 31 December 1912. Since that time she has made her home there.

   She leaves to mourn their loss a husband, four sisters and three brothers, John R. Spitler of North Judson, Emma Brady of Thayer, Mrs. Walter Fuller of Shelby, Mrs. Rose Best of Goodland, Mrs. Margaret Calkins of Florida, John Brady of Thayer, Well Brady of Chicago and Dan Brady of Brook.

   Interment at Roselawn Cemetery.

   (Kankakee Valley Review August 7, 1914)

Etta Mae Spitler

   Etta Mae Spitler, age 80, of Thayer, Indiana passed away on Wednesday, November 24, 2004.  She is survived by 1 son, Philip (Sharon) Spitler of Shelby; 3 grandsons, Daren (Daren) Spitler of West Milton, Ohio; Kevin (Ginger) Spitler of DeMotte and Scott (Barbara) Spitler of Thayer; 6 great-grandchildren; 2 sisters, Laura (Deb) Mathew of Winter Haven, Florida and June (Gene) Brunton of Roselawn; and numerous nieces and nephews. 

   She was preceded in death by her husband, Daren in 1995; l great-grandson Nick; 2 brothers and 7 sisters.  Funeral services will be held on Saturday, November 27 at 1 p.m. at the Sheets Funeral Home 604 E. Commercial Ave., Lowell, Indiana.  Pastor John Starr officiating.  Burial will follow at Memory Gardens in Rensselaer, Indiana.  Friends are invited to call on Friday from 3-8 p.m. at the Funeral Home.  Etta was a retired bus driver with the North Newton School Corporation.  She was a member of the Roselawn American Legion Post Women's Auxiliary.

Woodroe Zachary Spitler

   Woodroe Zachary Spitler, 81, of DeMotte, Indiana, passed away Saturday February 8, 1997.  He is survived by five nieces: Arlene Madison of Chicago, Ordetta Woudema of DeMotte, Donna (Arthur) Lageveen of DeMotte, Florence Burkholder of Waconda, Illinois, and Patricia (Jack) Burkley of Chicago;’ four nephews, Floyd (Linda) Harvey Logsdon of Thayer, Jerry (Linda) Eberle of Crown Point, Norbert Eberle of Shelby and Philip (Sherry) Spitler of Shelby; one sister-in-law, Etta Spitler and numerous grand nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by three sisters, Nonene Eberle, Wilda Spitler and Thelma Mary Logsdon and one brother, Daren Spitler.

   Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, 11 a.m. at the Sheets Funeral Home, 604 E. Commercial Ave., Lowell, Indiana.  Rev. Brian Beeks officiating.  Burial will follow at the Rose Lawn Cemetery, Rose Lawn, Indiana.  Friends are invited to call on Monday from 3 to 8 p.m. at the funeral home.

   Mr. Spitler was born on June 25, 1915 to Zachary and Faye Belle (King) Spitler.  He was a U.S. WWII Army veteran and a retired ironworker and farmer.  In lieu of flowers, memorials are requested to the Lincoln volunteer Fire Department in Thayer.

Eliza Ann Stowell

   Mrs. John Stowell, one of Shelby’s aged citizens passed away on Tuesday, her death being due to inflammation of the stomach.

   Eliza Ann Allen was born August 28, 1844. She was married to Hiram Dulin in 1864. To this union two children, a son and a daughter were born. November 10, 1887 she was married to John Stowell, who with the two children, two brothers and two sisters is left to mourn her death, which took, place September 16, 1902 at 5:15 p.m. at the age of 58 years 19 days.

   (From the Thayer-Shelby News September 18, 1902)

John Stowell

   John Stowell, of Shelby, one of the old pioneers of Lake County passed away on Wednesday. For the past year he was a suffering from stomach trouble.

   John Stowell was born in Huron County, Ohio, June 13^th 1826 and died on Wednesday, December 10^th, 1902, age 76 years 5 months and 27 days. His parents moved to Lake county in 1840.

            He married Miss Rhena Shumway of Hebron, Indiana in 1850. To this union six children were born. Five are living. He enlisted in the 73^rd Indiana Regiment, May, 1861 and served three years and was engaged in the memorable raid and capture at Rome, Georgia and was taken to Belle Isle where he was paroled. For the past thirty-five years he has been a resident of Shelby. At the time of his death he was employed as pump man at Shelby for the Indiana Illinois and Iowa Railway. The funeral services were held in the Christian Church at Lowell on Friday. Interment in the Lowell Cemetery.

   (Thayer-Shelby News, December 13, 1902)

George Struble

  George Struble was born in Germany, June 10, 1850; died July 15, 1915 aged 65 years 1 month, and 5 days.  He came to this country with his parents at the age of 2 years.  He was married at Newport, Indiana; March 14, 1883 to Nancy Sollers and a month later they moved to Shelby and have resided here since, being among the first settlers.  In later years he was the proprietor of a hotel at Water Valley, through which business he formed a large acquaintance among fishermen.

   To them were born John, Grover, and George, who with the bereaved widow and brothers and sister survive him.  Mr. Struble had known poor health since the first of the year, but about one week ago he was confined to his bed and was never able to be about again.  During all this time, he was a patient sufferer until death relieved him of his suffering.  Death was caused by a complication of diseases.  The funeral was held from St. Edward Roman Catholic church at Lowell.  Interment at Orchard Grove.

   (Kankakee Valley Review, July 13, 1915)

Clarence Studer

   Clarence Irvin Studer, 92, of Route 4, Rensselaer, died suddenly at the home of his daughter, Vivian Jacks of Rensselaer at 9:05 a.m., Thursday, March 21.

   The son of Adolf Studer and Dora (Easter) Studer, both deceased, he was born on March 3, 1899, in Roselawn.

   He lived in the Rensselaer area for six years after moving from Newton County.  He had resided in Crown Point from 1923 to 1935.

   He married Elba Burnside on February 18, 1920 in Kentland and she survives.

   Educated in the Newton County public schools, he was a retired farmer and drove a school bus for many years.

   He was affiliated with the Mount Ayr Methodist Church.

   Survivors, in addition to his wife, include one daughter, Mrs. Robert (Vivian) Jacks of Rensselaer; two brothers, Albert Studer and Theodore Studer, both of St. Cloud, Florida; one sister, Ethel Smith of Lake Village and St. Cloud; four grand-children and three great-grandchildren.

   He was preceded in death by one brother.

   Friends may call from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m., Saturday, March 23 at Steinke Funeral Home of Rensselaer.

   Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m., March 23 at the funeral home with the Rev. Greg Enstrom officiating.  Burial will follow in Oakland Cemetery in Morocco.

   (The Republican, March 22, 1991)

Elba Studer

   Elba Studer, 91, of Route 4, Rensselaer, died at 1:20 p.m. on Tuesday, April 4, at Jasper County Hospital after failing health for eight years.

   The daughter of James and Sarah Margaret (Smiley) Burnside, both deceased, she was born on August 3, 1899, in Madison.

   On February 18, 1920, she married Clarence Irvin Studer in Kentland and he died March 21, 1991.

   Educated in the Morocco Public Schools, she resided in Newton County until six years ago when she moved to Rensselaer.  She had also lived in Crown Point from 1923 to 1935.

   She served as a homemaker, waitress and cook.

   Affiliated with the Mount Ayr Methodist Church, she was a member of Methodist Women of the church and of the Newton County Home Ec Club for several years.

   Survivors include: a daughter, Mrs. Robert (Vivian) Jacks of Rensselaer; a sister, Iva Hickman of Rensselaer, four grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

   She was preceded in death by four brothers and one sister.

   Friends may visit from 6:p.m. until 8 p.m. Friday at the Steinke Funeral Home in Rensselaer.

   Funeral services will take place at 10: a.m. on Saturday, April 13, at the funeral home, with Rev. Greg Enstrom officiating.  Burial will follow at Oakland Cemetery in Morocco.

   (Rensslaer Republican, April 10, 1991)

Merle Charles "Pug" Sutton

   Merle Charles "Pug" Sutton, Roselawn/Lowell, age 80, formerly Lake Dale Carlia, passed away Monday, June 5, 2006.  He was the owner of Sutton Farm in Roselawn, served as a former Democrat precinct committeeman in Lake Dale, Lowell and Newton County and served as the Lowell/Cedar Creek Township Assessor.

   He was a charter member of the Lake Dale Volunteer Fire Department and helped build the first Lake Dale Fire Station in the 1950's.  He was a veteran of the U.S. Navy serving aboard the escort destroyer, John C. Butler, D.E. 339.  He received the Presidential Unit Citation--One Star, American Area Ribbon, Asiatic Pacific Area Ribbon-Five Stars, Philippine Liberation Ribbon-Two Stars and the WW II Victory Ribbon. 

   He was a lifetime and charter member and one of the first commanders of the VFW, Lowell Post No. 6841, the American Legion Roselawn Post No. 238 and charter member and past president of the Blue Ridge Hunting and Fishing Conservation Lodge in Brown County, Indiana. He was a retired member of Carpenter's Local 1005 with over 50 years of service.

   He was preceded in death by his mother, Fannie Barbara Sutton and sister, Phyllis Schloot.  He is survived by his wife of 55 years; Jeanette (Peterson) Sutton, five children: Marcia (Lynn) Boezeman of DeMotte, Jeffery (Susan) Sutton of Natalia, Texas, Katie Peterson of West Virginia, Barbara Ann Sutton of Lake Village and Myron (Michelle) Sutton of Kentland.  Six grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

   Memorial services will be announced at a later date.  Cremation will precede the memorial services.  Interment will be held at Lincoln Township Cemetery in Roselawn, Indiana.  There will be no visitation.  Burns Funeral Home, Crown Point Chapel in charge of arrangements.

   (The Times, June 6, 2006).

Robert C. Swanson

   Robert C. Swanson, 38, of 214 Cherry Lane in Momence, Illinois died at 2 p.m. on Monday November 17.  Death was unexpected.

   Born on September 19, 1921 in Fair Oaks, he was the son of Louis and Anna Swanson.  He was married to the former Marian Brown on February 19, 1949.

   Until his death, he was employed by the Fertilizer Applications System in Watseka.

   He was a veteran of World War II; a member of the VFW Post in Momence and a past commander of the American Legion Post 40 in Momence.

   Survivors include his wife; one son, David, one daughter, Suzanne, one grandson, Joel, one granddaughter, Kelly; one sister Eleanor Swanson of Thayer, and one brother, Walter of Blue Island, Illinois.

   Friends called from 2-9 p.m. on Wednesday in the Ruge Funeral Home in Momence where services were conducted at 2 p.m. on Thursday, November 20.

   Burial followed in the Lake Village Cemetery.

  (Morocco Courier, November 20, 1980)

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Julie Terpstra

   Julie L. Terpstra, 62, of Atlanta, Georgia died at 4:45 p.m. Tuesday at Piedmont Hospital in Atlanta, Georgia.

   A former resident of the Roselawn and DeMotte areas, she was born September 5, 1927, in Chicago, Illinois.  Her parents were John Klasek and Mamie Martin, both deceased.

   She was married July 30, 1950, in Rockville, Indiana, to Albert Terpstra, who died in 1978.

   She was a member of the Village Presbyterian Church of Kansas City, Kansas.

   Survivors include one daughter, Mrs. William (L. Madith) Salisbury of Atlanta, Georgia; three sisters, Doris Kimmel of Boscobel, Wisconsin; Marilyn Barnhart of San Bernardino, California, Lillian Oldfield of Chicago, Illinois.  She had two grandchildren.

   Memorial services will be held at 8 p.m. Friday at the Todd-Cooprider Funeral Home with the Pastor David Sterk officiating.  A private burial service will be held Saturday at Roselawn Cemetery for the immediate family.

   Visitation is from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday at the Todd-Cooprider Funeral Home.

   (The Republican, October 26, 1955)

Flossie Thompson

   Flossie Thompson, 85, of Rensselaer died at 2:15 a.m. Wednesday, September 22, 1993, at the Rensselaer Care Center.  She had been ill for three years.

   She was born in Greencastle, Indiana on May 18, 1908 to Dudley Hixson and Marie Coffee.  Both are deceased.

   She was a Jasper County resident for more than 28 years, living in DeMotte.  She also lived in Hammond.

   She was married to Thomas H. Thompson Sr. in Kankakee, Illinois.  He preceded her in death on November 26, 1978.

   She was educated in DeMotte Public Schools and was a homemaker.

   She is survived by two daughters, G. M. Carlile, Rensselaer; Mrs. Harvey (Carole) Hallifield, Cedar Lake; and one son, Thomas H. Thompson Jr. of Indiana.

   She was preceded in death by one daughter, one son, four brothers, and three sisters.

   Visitation is on Thursday, September 23, from 4 until 8 p.m. at Steinke Funeral Home of Rensselaer.

   Funeral services will be at Steinke Funeral Home on Friday, September 24, at 10 a.m. with Rev. Woody Slady officiating.

   Interment is at Fowler Cemetery in Fowler.

   (Rensselaer Republican, Sept, 1993)

Flora Trudeau

   Flora “Flo” Turner Trudeau, 87, of Rt. 3 Box 172, Rensselaer, died suddenly at 11 a.m. Wednesday at her winter home in Lakeland, Florida.

   A resident of Rensselaer since 1938, she was born on December 14, 1901 in Springfield, Kentucky to Dudley Hixson and Mattie E. Coffey, who are both deceased.  She moved to Indiana from Kentucky as a young child and then to Rensselaer from Roselawn.

   In 1935, she married Theodore Turner, who died in 1972.  She later married A. J. Trudeau in 1975, who preceded her in death in 1978.  She attended Putman and Newton County Public Schools and was a factory worker for 18 years.

   She was a member of the United Methodist Church of Rensselaer, Eastern Star Club, Rebekah Lodge, Newton Township Home Economics Club, Senior Citizens, Council on Aging and the Historical Society.

   Survivors include: one daughter, Delores Blasco of Lake Village; two sisters, Flossie Thompson and Bonnie Studer, both of Rensselaer; one daughter-in-law, Mary Bruechet of Lake Village; four grandsons, Paul Cyphers of California, John Blasco of Florida, Andy Blasco of Lake Village, Joey Blasco of Fort Wayne; three granddaughters, Joanne Swart of DeMotte, Pat Brown of Lake Village, Bonnie Jansen of White City, Kansas; five step-children, Bill Trudeau of Missouri, Elmo Trudeau of California, Mary Ann (Mrs. Robert) Hamer, Mrs. Max (Dolores) Trump and Mrs. Claude (Betty Jean) Grow, all of Rensselaer; seven grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren and five great-great-grandchildren.

    She was preceded in death by four brothers, one sister, one son, one step-son and two grandsons.

   Funeral services are scheduled for 10 a.m. Monday at the Steinke Funeral Home with the Rev. Donald Ruhl officiating.

   Burial will follow at Lowell Cemetery.  Visitation will be held from 2-9 p.m. Sunday at the Steinke Funeral Home.

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Zella "Tootsie" Vance

   Zella "Tootsie" Vance, 64, of Roselawn passed away Sunday, February 12, 1998 at the University of Chicago.

   Born in Dante, Virginia on December 16, 1930 to Scott Salyers and Otha Herndon, Mrs. Vance was a resident of Roselawn for 23 years.

   Educated in the Dante Public Schools, she was married in Monticello on May 7, 1962, to Lakon "Scoby" Vance who survives.  Mrs. Vance was employed for 10 years as a Lincoln Township Elementary School cook before her retirement.  She was also a member of the Victory Baptist Church of Roselawn.

   Surviving are her mother, Otha (Sherman) Herndon of Castlewood, Virginia; her husband, Lakes of Roselawn, sons, Scott (Barbara) Alderson of Fairfax, Virginia, Jerry Wayne (Gayle) Alderson of Schererville, and Randy (Cara) Alderson of Roselawn; daughter, Vonda (Scott) Telford of Roselawn, eight grandchildren, Lisa Jennifer, Adam, Matthew, Michael, and Daniel Alderson, Ryan and Derek Telford, brother James (Evelyn) Salyers of Castlewood, Virginia; sisters Shelley Tilton of Portsmouth, Virginia, Linda (Junior) Austin of Castlewood.

   Mrs. Vance was preceded in death by her father and one sister.

   Visitation will be held from 4-7 p.m. on Tuesday, February 14, at the Jackson Funeral Service in DeMotte.  The funeral services will be held there at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, February 14, 1995 with Rev. Randy Gaskey and Ballard Lewis presiding.  Interment will follow in the Temple Hill Memorial Park in Castlewood.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the family to help defer medical expenses.

   (The Rensselaer Republican, February 14, 1995)

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Loretta Jean Whitcomb

   Loretta Jean Whitcomb, 61, of Hopkins Park, Illinois passed away, Monday, March 27, 1995 at her home.

   Born in Roselawn on December 29, 1933 to Melvin and Flossie Eve (Cox) Albright, Mrs. Whitcomb had lived in Hopkins Park since 1980.

   A homemaker, on February 3, 1956, she was married to Charles J. Whitcomb in Roselawn; Mr. Whitcomb survives.

   Surviving are her husband, Charles, of Hopkins Park, three daughters, Flossie A. (David) Warner of Wolcott, Peggy L. (Tim) Wagner of Hopkins Park, and Edith M. (Glen) Hazzard of Momence, Illinois; four sons, Charles D. (Sandra) Whitcomb, Kenny E. (Susan) Whitcomb, Christopher S. Whitcomb of Hopkins Park, and Michael J. (Victoria) Whitcomb of Hopkins Park; 10 grandchildren.

   Also surviving are five sister, Audrey (Bob) Clark of Roselawn, Frances (Harold) Cooper of Roselawn, Shirley (Spike) David of Roselawn, Midge Hesh of Lake Village, and Lydia Scripture of Shelby; three brothers, Frank (Pat) Armstrong of Roselawn, Early (Pat) Armstrong of Roselawn, Earl (Pat) Armstrong of Roselawn, and Bud (Edna) Albright of Roselawn.

   Mrs. Whitcomb was preceded in death by her parents, and one brother, Donald.

   Visitation will be held from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Thursday, March 30, at the Todd-Steinke Funeral Home in DeMotte.  The funeral will be held there at 1 p.m. Thursday with Ronald Gann presiding.  Interment will follow in the Roselawn Cemetery in Roselawn.

   (The Rensselaer Republican, March 29, 1995)

Loretta Jean Whitcomb

   Loretta Jean Whitcomb, 61, of Hopkins Park, Illinois passed away, Monday, March 27, 1995 at her home.

   Born in Roselawn on December 29, 1933 to Melvin and Flossie Eve (Cox) Albright, Mrs. Whitcomb had lived in Hopkins Park since 1980.

   A homemaker, on February 3, 1956, she was married to Charles J. Whitcomb in Roselawn; Mr Whitcomb survives.

   Surviving are her husband, Charles, of Hopkins Park, three daughters, Flossie A. (David) Warner of Wolcott, Peggy L. (Tim) Wagner of Hopkins Park, and Edith M. (Glen) Hazzard of Momence, Illinois; four sons, Charles D. (Sandra) Whitcomb, Kenny E. (Susan) Whitcomb, Christopher S. Whitcomb of Hopkins Park, and Michael J. (Victoria) Whitcomb of Hopkins Park; 10 grandchildren.

   Also surviving are five sisters, Audrey (Bob) Clark of Roselawn, Frances (Harold) Cooper of Roselawn, Shirley (Spike) David of Roselawn, Midge Hesh of Lake Village, and Lydia Scripture of Shelby; three brothers, Frank (Pat) Armstrong of Roselawn, Early (Pat) Armstrong of Roselawn, Earl (Pat) Armstrong of Roselawn, and Bud (Edna) Albright of Roselawn.

   Mrs. Whitcomb was preceded in death by her parents, and one brother, Donald.

   Visitation will be held from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Thursday, March 30, at the Todd-Steinke Funeral Home in DeMotte.  The funeral will be held there at 1 p.m. Thursday with Ronald Gann presiding.  Interment will follow in the Roselawn Cemetery in Roselawn.

   (The Rensselaer Republican, March 29, 1995)

Kenneth C. White

   Kenneth C. White, Crown Point, Indiana age 80, a lifelong resident of Crown Point, passed away on Tuesday, August 8, 2006 at St. Anthony Medical Center. He is survived by his 2 sisters, Bonnie (Kent) McDaniel of Knox, Indiana, Joan (Charles) Puckett of Salyersville, Kentucky; 2 brothers, Ray (Nadine) White of Delaware, Arkansas, Russell (Karen) White of Crown Point; brother-in-law, Kenneth Brunton; numerous nieces, nephews, family and friends. Preceded in death by his wife of 50 years, Laura white; parents, Jean and Elmer White; sister, Helen Brunton; brothers, Wilbert White and Lester Edward White. Funeral services will be held on Friday, August 11, 2006 at 11 a.m. at Geisen Funeral Home, Crown Point, with Rev. Ray Puckett of Crown Point Church of God officiating. Interment at Roselawn Cemetery in Roselawn, Indiana. Friends may call at the Geisen Funeral Home, 109 N. East St., Crown Point on Thursday, August 10, 2006 from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. Mr. White retired from the railroad with over 30 years of service. To share a memory or send a condolence to the family, please visit the guestbook section on the obituary page at www.geisenfuneralhome.com For information, please call (219) 663-2500.

    (The Post-Tribune from 8/10/2006-8/11/2006)

Myrtle E. White

   Myrtle E. White, 78 of Lake Village, passed away on Monday, August 28, 1995.  She is survived by four sons, John (Charity) White of Chicago, Phillip (Doris) White of Lafayette, Aaron (Ethel) White of Fort Wayne, and Edgar (Therese) White of DeMotte; one daughter Muriel White of Lake Village, one sister, Thelma Ellis of Chicago; 14 grandchildren; five great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.  Proceeded in death by husband, John J. White in 1989.

   Funeral services will be held Friday, September 1, 1995, 11 a.m. at the Sheets Funeral Home, 604 E. Commercial Ave., Lowell, Indiana, with Pastor Kenneth Brown officiating. Burial in Roselawn Cemetery, Roselawn, Indiana.  Friends are invited to call Thursday from 4 to 8 p.m. at the funeral home.

   Mrs. White was a member of the Roselawn United Methodist Church and held various leadership positions in the church.  Vice President to the Newton County Council on Aging, Memorials may be made to the Roselawn United Methodist Church.

Elwood C. “Pappy” Wiseman

   Elwood C. Wiseman “Pappy”, 72, of DeMotte formerly of Thayer, Indiana, passed away at 10:45 p.m. Thursday, November 4, 1999 at his residence.  He was born October 29, 1926 in Mishawaka, Indiana to Clinton and Violette (Logsdon) Wiseman.  He was married on January 28, 1948 in Rensselaer, Indiana to Mollie Ann Pritchett, who survives.  He retired in 1985 from U.S. Steel where he had been employed for 37 years.  He was a veteran of the U.S. Navy; member of the First Baptist Church of Roselawn; and a member of the Howard O. Hunter Masonic Lodge.  Also survived by one daughter, Kathleen (Daniel) Ryan of Wheatfield; two sons, Gene (Beverly) Wiseman and Clay (Sue) Wiseman of Taylorville, Illinois; two brothers, Dale Wiseman of Morocco and Max Wiseman; one sister, Janet Wilson of Griffith; eight grandchildren and two great-granddaughters.  Proceeded in death by his parents, one brother, one grand-daughter and one grandson.

   Visitation will be on Sunday, November 7^th, from 3 to 8 p.m. at the Lang Funeral Chapel 2045 West State Road 10, Lake Village, Indiana with a Masonic Service at 7 p.m.  The funeral will be at 11 a.m. Monday at the First Baptist Church of Roselawn, Pastor Randy Gaskey and Pastor Charles Rogers officiating.  Cremation will follow.  In lieu of flowers memorials can be made to First Baptist Church of Roselawn.

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