Robert L. August, 64, Route 5, Decatur, Ind., a retired rural mail carrier, died Sunday at the Caylor-Nickel Clinic Hospital, Bluffton, Ind. Mr. August retired two years ago from the Decatur Post Office. Born in Van Wert County on February 21, 1917, he was the son of Roy and Maurine Murphy-August, and was married on January 13, 1940, to Pauline McKean; she survives. Also, surviving are two children, Mrs. Michael (Diana) Johnston, Route 5, Decatur and Ronald. L. August, Tucson, Ariz.; two sisters, Mrs. Arley (Virginia) Johnson, Fort Wayne, Ind., and Mrs. Betty Smeltzer, Bluffton; two brothers, Jack August, Nokomis, Fla., and Harold E. August, Decatur, Adams County Chief Deputy Sheriff; and five grandchildren. One sister preceded him in death. Funeral services will be held today (Wednesday) at 10 am at St. Mark's United Methodist Church, Decatur, Rev. C. Albert Nunery officiating. Burial will be in Covington Memorial Gardens, Fort Wayne.
Photo Star, Van Wert County, OH; February 17, 1982
Contributed by Elaine Geyer

The funeral services of Mrs. Clara Bell will be held Wednesday at 10 a.m. at the residence, 211 Brackenridge street, the Rev. E. W. Allen officiating.
Fort Wayne Journal Gazette, Allen County, Indiana; Tuesday Morning, June 27, 1905
Contributed by Karin King

BLUFFTON MAN'S BODY FOUND IN ELKHART RIVER
Ligonier, Ind., May 6 - The badly decomposed body of Alexander Bennett, aged 65 years, of Bluffton, was pulled out of the Elkhart river two miles above this city at 3 o'clock this afternoon by Bert Biddle and Jacob Muffer of Ligonier. The body was discovered by the two while fishing at a point near the Allen Wolf farm, and the coroner and Dr. Black were at once notified. Benett [sic], who was an eccentric character about Bluffton, had often talked of committing suicide. However, as he was of a roving disposition, nothing was thought of his disappearance three weeks ago from the home of his niece, Mrs. Henry Burkett, where he made his home during the winter near the point where the body was found. He was identified by Mrs. Burkett by means of a toe which was missing on one foot, and which he had lost in an accident years ago. The body was brought to Ligonier, and Bluffton relatives telegraphed for.
Berne Witness, Adams County, Indiana; Tuesday, May 9, 1911
Contributed by Karin King

OIL LAMP FUMES KILL TWO WOMEN
ELKHART, Ind., Dec. 16 - Mrs. Martha Bigelow and Miss Mary McIntyre, sisters, both more than 60 years old, were found dead today in their room, which was filled with fumes from an oil lamp. The body of one of the women was near a window where she had dragged herself in an attempt to get fresh air.
Berne Witness, Adams County, Indiana; Tuesday, Dec. 19, 1911
Contributed by Karin King

The funeral of Nelson, the nine-months-old son of Mr. and Mrs. William A. Bixler, of 524 Ewing street, will be held tomorrow afternoon at 2 o'clock from the residence. The interment will be at Lindenwood.
Fort Wayne News, Allen County, Indiana; Wednesday, July 30, 1902
Contributed by Karin King

Mary Louise Bollenbacher, age 92, a resident of 305 High Street in Geneva, died Sunday at Bluffton Regional Medical Center in Bluffton. Mary Louise Bollenbacher was born on November 2, 1911, in Delaware County, to Jesse and Bessie (House) Shoemaker. She was married October 10, 1947, to Lawrence Bollenbacher. He died on April 30, 1967. She was a member of the Trinity United Methodist Church in Berne and had worked at Nussbaum Novelties of Berne for several years. She graduated from Dunkirk High School with the class of 1929. Surviving is two daughters: Bessie L. Bollenbacher of Geneva and Catherine A. Lockwood (husband John) of St. Joseph, Michigan; one step-daughter, Willodean Fox of Berne; and one sister, Lettie Leota Kaufman of Portland. In addition, there are 4 grandchildren, 11 step-grandchildren, many step-great-grandchildren and several step-great-great-grandchildren. Funeral services will be held Wednesday at 11 am in the Portland Chapel of Williamson and Spencer Funeral Home. Rev. Darwin Pressler will preside and burial will follow in the Union Cemetery located north of Muncie. Friends may call at the Portland Chapel of the Williamson & Spencer Funeral Home from 4-8 pm on Tuesday, November 4, 2003.
Newspaper clipping from the Florence Gause collection dated November 3, 2003
Contributed by Elaine Geyer

Decatur Native Dies at Hospital
Mrs. Marie H. Bruggencate, 61, of Crooked Lake, a native of Decatur, died late Thursday night [9/8/1966] at Elmhurst hospital Angola. She suffered a heart attack six hours after entering the hospital. She was born in Decatur and lived in Fort Wayne until moving to Crooked Lake five weeks ago. She was a member of the Catholic church and retired from the General Electric Co. in August, 1965, after 20 years of service. Surviving are her husband, George; and five sisters, Mrs. Minnie Murray, Mrs. Augusta Wynn and Mrs. Frances Bireley, all of Fort Wayne, Sr. M. Carolita of Belleville, Ill., and Mrs. Loreta Trometer of Arkon, Ia. Funeral services will be held at 8:30 a.m. Monday at Mungovan & Sons Mortuary in Fort Wayne, and at 9 a.m. at St. Patrick's Catholic church. Rev. Edward A. Miller will officiate, and burial will be in Covington Memorial Gardens. Friends may call at the mortuary after 7 p.m. today. (Sept. 10, 1966)
From obit book at Decatur Library, Adams County, Indiana
Contributed by Karin King

The funeral services of Henry S. Buckley will be held Wednesday at 9:30 a.m. at the residence, 404 Baker street, and at 10 o'clock at the Cathedral.
Fort Wayne Journal Gazette, Allen County, Indiana; Tuesday Morning, June 27, 1905
Contributed by Karin King

Indianapolis, Oct. 6 - Sidney Conger, of Shelbyville, one of the most widely known men among the farmers of Indiana, and who had long figured in Republican politics of Shelby county and the state, died this morning at 9 o'clock at the Fletcher sanatorium. He had been suffering for more than a year from cancer of the throat.
Berne Witness, Adams County, Indiana; October 10, 1911
Contributed by Karin King

Custer Funeral Rites Are Held In Florida
Funeral services were held this afternoon at Lakeland, Fla. For Mrs. John B. (Maggie) Custer, 72, who died in that city Friday night according to word received here by relatives. Mrs. Custer's death was unexpected. Surviving are two brothers, Orlen Fortney of Pleasant Mills and Frank Fortney of Fort Wayne. Mr. Custer died several years ago. Nephew, D. Burdette Custer of this city visited with Mrs. Custer weeks ago when he was visiting his parents in Florida. Mrs. Custer had resided in Lakeland for several years but spent most of her life in Adams county. She also was an aunt of Henry Fortney of Decatur.
Decatur Daily Democrat, Adams County, IN; 2/5/1951
Contributed by Elaine Geyer

The funeral services of John Dalman, held yesterday afternoon at the West Jefferson Street Church of Christ, were largely attended and the outpouring of people was a high tribute to the former treasurer. The remains were carried to their last resting place by the Messrs. John R. Bass, R. S. Robertson, John W. Orr, J. L. Smith, Thomas Greer, Sr., and James Cunningham. The honorable pall bearers were the Messrs. H. R. Freeman, C. H. Worden, S. B. Bond, J. H. Rohan, G. M. Doyle and Edward Rich.
Fort Wayne Journal Gazette, Allen County, Indiana; Tuesday Morning, June 27, 1905
Contributed by Karin King

Joel F. Drayer, 37, of route 3, North Manchester, a native of Adams county, was killed Tuesday afternoon when his car slid under a semi-truck on U.S. 24 just south of Amber Road in Allen county, near the city of Fort Wayne. Mr. Drayer was a machinist at Shar, Inc., located in Fort Wayne. The car Drayer was driving struck the rear of a truck operated by Mayo D. Page, 43, of Copiague, N.Y. The auto's roof was sheared off from the impact. The trucker told police he was carrying a heavy load and was traveling at a slow speed up a hill. Page reportedly heard what he thought was a tire blowing out on his rig and attempted to make a right turn into the Timbercrest Truck Stop. The mishap occurred there, Allen county police said. The auto struck the rear of the trailer as Page was making the turn, and slid forward to the rear axle. Mr. Drayer was a member of the Salem United Methodist Church in Wabash county, and the Bippus volunteer fire department, and was active in 4-H work. He was a son of Charles and Eva Groh-Drayer, and his father died several years ago. Surviving are his wife, Joan; two sons, Kent and Kevin, and two daughters, Cynthia and Lynette, at home; his mother, Mrs. Eva Drayer of route 2, Ossian; three brothers, Herman of route 2, Ossian; David of Hicksville, O., and Darell of Wabash, and two sisters, Mrs. Leroy Cable of Highland and Mrs. Jerry Gerwig of Decatur. Mr. Dryer's brother-in-law, Leroy Cable, was head basketball coach at Adams Central high school a number of years ago. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Friday in the Deal & Robbins funeral home, Huntington, where friends may call from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. today. Burial will be in Fairview cemetery [OH].
Decatur Daily Democrat, Adams County, Indiana; Friday, January 8, 1975
Contributed by Janice Vasilovski

Eli Ecenbarger, an employe of the Rollings mills, died last evening at 8:30 o'clock, at his residence, 2233 John street. Death is attributed to complications. The deceased was born to Jacob and Mary Ecenbarger, at Grantsville, Md. in 1845. He had been a resident of Fort Wayne for a number of years. A wife, two sons, Frank and Oscar, of this city, and one daughter, Mrs. Jasper Waikle, also of this city, are the surviving members of the immediate family. Mr. Ecenbarger was a member of the United Brethren church, of Fort Wayne. Funeral services will be held Saturday afternoon, at 2 o'clock, at the home of Mrs. Jasper Waikle, 1701 Sinclair street. Burial in Lindenwood cemetery.
Fort Wayne News & Sentinel, Allen County, Indiana; December 18, 1919
Contributed by Karin King

Howard Ecenbarger, the nine-year-old son of Mr. and Mrs. William F. Ecenbarger of 1702 Sinclair street died at the family home at 12:15 o'clock Friday morning following a brief illness due to pneumonia. The parents and the following brothers and sisters survive: Mrs. B. W. Skelton, Everett, Jeanette, Ada, Alice and Robert, all of this city. Funeral service Monday at 2 p.m. at the residence
Fort Wayne News & Sentinel, Allen County, Indiana; Feb. 28, 1919
Contributed by Karin King

MRS. JACOB ECKER DIES IN AGONY FROM HORRIBLE BURNS RECEIVED IN EXPLOSION OF GASOLINE STOVE
Two-thirds of her body covered with burns, the result of the explosion of a gasoline stove shortly before 12 o'clock yesterday noon, Mrs. Jacob Ecker, 2215 Wells street died four hours later in the Hope hospital. Her husband and two daughters, Lotta and Emma Ecker, are suffering from severe burns about the arms and hands, sustained while trying to extinguish the flames in an effort to help the unfortunate woman. While frying some meat on the gasoline stove in the summer kitchen back of the house, Mrs. Ecker poured some water in the skillet, with the result that the flames from the burner leaped up and set fire to the gasoline in the tank and causing an explosion. Mrs. Ecker's entire body was enveloped in flames and her clothes were burning from her body. Rushing into the kitchen, she was met by her husband who came upstairs from the cellar in response to her cries for help. Mr. Ecker immediately grabbed his wife and rolled her in carpets and rugs in the vain endeavor to extinguish the flames. The two daughters, Lotta and Emma, hearing the noise, also came to the rescue of their mother and did their best to help. But all their efforts were too late to aid the woman lying on the floor, writhing with pain. The clothes were literally burned off her body and there are only a few places on the body that are not burned. Dr. C. C. Kimmel was called and attended the woman, ordering her removal to Hope hospital. While the doctor was examining the wounds, Mrs. Ecker was still conscious and told the story of the accident. But before she got to the hospital she lost consciousness and death followed at four o'clock. The immediate cause of death was the shock of the accident, although the burns themselves were sufficient to have caused death. The daughters who were at home say that their mother had some trouble with the stove all morning and that she had complained that the gasoline tank was leaking and that the burners would not light and as she wished them to. Mr. Ecker and the daughters sustained a number of severe burns and have their arms and hands swathed in bandages. The youngest daughter, Emma, had both arms and hands severely burned, but the injuries are not of a dangerous character. A number of carpenters who were working at a new house being constructed in the neighborhood, rushed to the help of the Eicker family, assisting Mr. Ecker in caring for his wife, and putting out the flames in the kitchen, which had been set on fire at the time of the explosion. Mrs. Ecker was fifty-two years old her last birthday and was born in Pennsylvania. She is survived by her husband, Jacob Ecker, who is employed as clerk at Levy brothers, and five children, four daughters, Helen, Emma, Lotta and Louise and one son, George Ecker. Funeral announcements will be made later.
Fort Wayne Journal Gazette, Allen County, Indiana; Thursday, August 8, 1912
Contributed by Karin King

Fort Wayne relatives yesterday received word of the death of Dr. Chas. H. Eckert, a specialist, who died yesterday morning at his home in Marion at the age of fifty-four years. Dr. Eckert had been in failing health for some time and his condition had been critical for several weeks. Dr. Eckert was well known in Fort Wayne, where he had spent his earlier days. He was born in Gallion, O., in 1857, and came to Fort Wayne when a young man, having received his earlier education in the local public schools. He graduated from the old Fort Wayne medical college and later became associated with the late Dr. Virgil. About twenty-five years ago he moved to Marion, where he practiced medicine for twenty years, later returning to Fort Wayne, where he continued his practice for two years, until one year ago, when he moved to Marion again. Dr. Eckert was prominent in both Fort Wayne and Marion and was a member of the Elk's lodge, Masonic organizations and the Knights of Pythias lodge. Surviving are two daughters - Mrs. Amos Richey and Mrs. Guy Sprague, of this city, and following brothers and sisters: David S., William, Jesse H., Catherine E. and J. C. Eckert. The remains will be brought to Fort Wayne for funeral services and burial.
Fort Wayne Journal Gazette, Allen County, Indiana; Friday, Augusts 22, 1913
Contributed by Karin King

Demise of the Well Known Cigar Manufacturer - His Wife Also Laying at the Point of Death
Shortly after 2 o'clock this afternoon, John C. Eckert, the well known cigar manufacturer, died at his home on West Williams street. The cause of death was pneumonia superinduced by la grippe. Mr. Eckert was one of our best known citizens and has resided in Fort Wayne since 1863. He was fifty-nine years of age and was born in Dauphin county, Pa. He leaves, besides his wife, six children, five sons and one daughter. They are Dr. Charles H., of Marion, William C., Dave S., Jesse H., of Grand Rapids, John C. Jr., and Mrs. Kitty Clayton of this city. The deceased was a prominent Odd Fellow, being a member of Harmony lodge, No. 19. This order will have charge of the funeral. Mr. Eckert has manufactured cigars in Fort Wayne since 187?, making the celebrated "39" brand. Mrs. Eckert, wift of the deceased, is very low with pneumonia, having been ill for the past fourteen days. Her life is almost despaired of. The family have the sympathy of the entire community in their sad bereavement. The deceased had an excellant war record and served his country in the 127th regiment of Pennsylvania.
Fort Wayne Sentinel, Allen County, Indiana; Saturday, April 6, 1895
Contributed by Karin King

George Eichelberry, aged eighty-three years, died yesterday morning at his home, 1318 Bluff street. Death was due to senility. The deceased was a veteran of the civil war and had been a resident of Fort Wayne for the past thirty-five years. For years he was an employe of the Horton Manufacturing company, retiring five years ago. Surviving besides the widow are two sons, Frank and William, two grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Funeral services Monday afternoon at the residence, Rev. C. O. Shirey officiating. Interment at Lindenwood. The Woman's Relief corps will hold flag services at the residence Monday afternoon at 1:30 o'clock.
Fort Wayne Journal Gazette, Allen County, Indiana; July 1, 1916
Contributed by Karin King

Yesterday afternoon at 3:25 occurred the death of Lewellyn Eichelberry, son of George Eichelberry, at his home, No. 10 Short street. The deceased was thirty years of age and unmarried. Death was caused by some disease of the bone. He has been ill for a long time. The funeral occurs tomorrow at 2 p.m.
Fort Wayne Sentinel, Allen County, Indiana; August 20, 1890
Contributed by Karin King

Mrs. Oleta B. Engelsen, 65, of Fort Wayne, a native of Convoy, O., died at 5:50 p.m. Monday in Parkview memorial hospital, where she had been a patient for two weeks. She had lived in Fort Wayne the last seven years. Surviving are her husband, Peter E.; two sisters, Mrs. Marcile Etzler of Convoy, and Bernice Roult of Sun Rise, Fla.; and a brother, Jerald Muntzinger of route 2 Convoy. Funeral services will be held at 3 p.m. Wednesday in D.O. McComb & sons funeral home, where friends may call after 7 p.m. today and until the time of the services Wednesday. Burial will be in the Convoy 100F cemetery [OH].
Decatur Daily Democrat, Adams County, Indiana; Friday, January 7, 1975
Contributed by Janice Vasilovski

NEARLY FOUR SCORE - Death At An Early Morning Hour Of James English
James English, a well known and prominent resident of the county, died this morning at 2 o'clock at his late residence, 2535 Lafayette street, aged 79 years, of the infirmities due to old age. Mr. English had lived in this county for forty-nine years and in this city for the last three years. Surviving him are his wife and eight children. The children are Dr. C. H. English, of this city; Rev. J. W. English, of McDonald, Pa.; Mrs. Gresley and Mrs. McIntosh of Hoagland; Mrs. Hubler and Mrs. Barkley, of Colorado, and Mrs. Merriman of this city. The deceased was a member of the Third Presbyterian church of this city. The funeral will be held on Tuesday at 2 p.m. from the residence and at 2:30 o'clock from the Third Presbyterian church, Rev. Dr. McGaw officiating.
Fort Wayne News, Allen County, Indiana; August 23, 1902
Contributed by Karin King

BEEKS ERICK DIES SUDDENLY
FORT WAYNE, Ind., July 25 - Beeks Erick, 65 years old, one of the wealthiest men in the city, died suddenly today of heart disease. He made his money building railroads in Oklahoma and financing banks in the West. At one time he was the sole owner of fourteen banks in Oklahoma.
Indianapolis Star, Indianapolis, Indiana; July 26, 1914
Contributed by Karin King

MR. "JERRY" ERVIN - Death of a Well Known and Prominent Farmer
At noon yesterday, occurred the death of Mr. Jeremiah Ervin, a well known and prominent farmer living six miles north of the city. He was a brother of Mr. John Ervin, of this city, and was universally esteemed for his sterling worth as a citizen, possessing traits of character that won for him the love of all with whom he was thrown into contact. He was born in this county on the 25th day of November, 1840. He was a soldier in the late war of the rebellion, having enlisted in 1864 and serving for a year in active duty. Mr. Ervin was a member of the Methodist church of Wallen and his funeral will be held at that sanctuary tomorrow morning at 11 o'clock, the interment being at the cemetery at Wallen. The cause of his death was dropsy. A widow and ten children survive him and mourn the loss of a devoted husband and a kind, true father. His death will be heard with sadness by his large circle of friends throughout the county.
Fort Wayne Sentinel, Allen County, Indiana; Thursday, June 19, 1890
Contributed by Karin King

Coroner Morgan reports the death of the ten weeks old child of Mr. and Mrs. I. W. Fishbaugh of Bippus Saturday night. The child had a severe case of hemorrhage of the nose and the blood ran down into the mouth and throat of the infant and death by strangulation was the result. The child was found dead in bed Sunday morning and although Dr. Perry of Bippus was summoned, he found that there would be no need of for his services as the child had been dead for some time. Coroner Morgan was summoned from this city and gave as the reason for the death strangulation saying that a violent case of nosebleed had ensued during the night and that death resulted from the blood which ran into the throat of the child.
Huntington Herald (IN) - Monday, August 24, 1908
Contributed by Karin King

Vincent A. "Vince" Fortkamp, age 85, of Fort Recovery, Ohio, died March 24, 2018, at Briarwood Village, Coldwater, OH. He was born July 29, 1932, in Montezuma, OH, to the late Henry and Mary (Homan) Fortkamp. On August 13, 1955, he married Jean F. (Reier) Fortkamp, who survives. Also surviving are his children, Roger (Marilyn) Fortkamp of Fort Recovery, Bob (Bonnie) Fortkamp of Coldwater, JoAnn (Larry) Wagner of Versailles, OH, Ruth (Dan) Pottkotter of Coldwater, Marvin (Bonnie) Fortkamp of Fort Recovery, Pat (Gary) Post of Fort Recovery, Kathy Tyler of Cincinnati, OH and Ginny (Gene) Schoenlein of Fort Recovery; siblings, Rosie May of Coldwater, Bernice Poling of Coldwater, Lavern (Elaine) Fortkamp of Dayton, OH, Alice Steinke of Florida and Ralph Fortkamp of Fort Recovery; 33 Grandchildren; 40 Great Grandchildren; and in-laws, Merdella (Joe) Nietfeld of St. Henry, OH and Viola Braun of Coldwater, OH. Preceding him in death are three grandchildren; siblings, Cyril (Mary Ann) Fortkamp, Rita (Jim) Zehringer and Henry (Arlene) Fortkamp; brothers-in-law, Bud May, Dick Poling and Gene Steinke; in-laws, Loudonna (Richard) Timmerman, Melvin (Phyllis) Reier, Lavern Reier and Shorty Braun. Vincent retired from farming and also drove a truck for Fort Recovery Industries, Fort Recovery. He was a U.S. Army veteran and served during the Korean War. Vince was a member and former Grand Knight of the Knights of Columbus Council 3324, a member and Past Commander of the American Legion Post 345 and also a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 6515, all of Fort Recovery. He was formerly a member of St. Paul Catholic Church, Sharpsburg where he served as a lector and choir member and he also served on the Fort Recovery School Board. He was a member of the St. Gaspar del Bufalo Assembly, Minster where he served as a Fourth Degree Knight of Columbus. He was also a member of Mary Help of Christians Catholic Church, Fort Recovery. Vince enjoyed traveling, playing cards and being involved in the community. A Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 am Wednesday, March 28, 2018, at Mary Help of Christians Catholic Church, Fort Recovery, Fr. Matthew Feist officiating. Burial will follow at St. Marys Cemetery, Fort Recovery. Calling is 2:00 pm-8:00 pm Tuesday and 9:00 am-10:00 am Wednesday at Brockman - Boeckman Funeral Home, Fort Recovery, Ohio. An American Legion prayer service will be held at 7:45 Tuesday at the funeral home, followed by a Knights of Columbus prayer service. Military graveside honors will be conducted by the American Legion. Contributions can be made to State of the Heart Care or the Veterans Park Maintenance Fund, Fort Recovery. Condolences may be directed to www.brockmanboeckmanfh.com
Brockman-Boeckman Funeral Home online obit (accessed 3/25/2018)

The funeral of Elmer, the one-year-old son of Mr. and Mrs. Frank A. Fruechtenicht of 708 Walnut street, will be held from the residence tomorrow. The interment will be at the Concordia cemetery.
Fort Wayne News, Allen County, Indiana; July 30, 1902
Contributed by Karin King

Francis Fruechtenicht, an aged farmer of Adams township, died this morning of typhoid fever, at the age of 72 years. The funeral will take place Thursday afternoon at the residence. The deceased was a pioneer German farmer of Allen county.
Fort Wayne News, Allen County, Indiana; Oct. 6, 1894
Contributed by Karin King

Louis Gillieron, aged 60 years, father of Joe Gillieron of No. 1 engine house, died at 1 o'clock Friday afternoon at the family home, two miles north of the city on the Lincoln highway. Buried Parker Cem, Fort Wayne, Indiana
Fort Wayne News & Sentinel, Allen County, Indiana; February 28, 1919
Contributed by Karin King

Mrs. Maggie Harper Dies On Wednesday
After a decline in health for some months, Miss Dona Margaret Harper, who was near her 82nd year, died Wednesday evening at her home on Franklin Street. The funeral services are arranged for Sunday afternoon at two o'clock from the Rockford United Brethren Church. Miss Harper was long a resident of Blackcreek township, but for a number of years has made her home in Rockford. Surviving are nephews and nieces; Mrs. Agnes Hoff of Midland, Michigan, Mrs. Broe Granger of Mishawaka, Ind., Mrs. Della Kissinger of California, Lorin, Francis and Gale Harper of Midland, Mich., Mrs. Ona Snyder and Mrs. Pearl Hoblett of Willshire and Dillon Jordan and family of Rockford.
Rockford Press (OH); May 14, 1942
Contributed by Elaine Geyer

Pioneer Citizen Succumbs To Old Age At His Home Sunday.
Wm. Harper, a pioneer resident, died at his home here Sunday night, aged 86 years. Mr. Harper was a resident of Blackcreek township for 70 years, having settled there in 1835. Five years ago he retired from active work and removed to this place where he has since lived, with his daughter, Dona. A broken hip sustained in a fall some time ago, and the infirmities of old age caused his death. Funeral services were held Wednesday morning from the U. B. church, Rev. C.O. Callender officiating and the burial was made in Riverside cemetery. William M. Harper, son of Joseph and Catherine Harper, was born March 27, 1824, in what is now known as Ashland county, Ohio. Departed this life July 3, 1910, aged 86 years, three months and six days. In 1835 he came with his parents to Mercer county and settled in Blackcreek township. Without any means of support except willing hands and brave hearts they endured all privations incident to pioneer life, corn and venison often being their only food supplies. Rockford at this time consisted of but three families, and in order that the grist might be ground it was necessary to make the long and tedious trip to Ft. Wayne and later to St. Marys. Neighbors were few and far apart. Only one family resided between Willshire and the farm that was entered by the father, and later owned by Mr. Harper himself. In 1848 he was united in marriage to Sarah Young which union was blessed with two sons and two daughters, all of whom survive their father. After 51 years of married bliss the wife and mother bid adieu and went to meet her God and share the joys of the righteous. Though needed at home, and much attached to his family, Mr. Harper felt that he owed a service to his country, and in time of her need took up arms in defense of our nation's flag, and proved himself a loyal and efficient soldier. Yet their remains one field of service in which he was most worthy of emulation. Brother Harper was of a religious turn of mind, and at the organizing of the Duck Creek church near his home he became one of its charter members and on coming to Rockford he united with the U. B. church. He has proven himself a most faithful follower of his Master and in his declining days seldom ever did you find his church pew vacant. He leaves a host of friends that will join in prayer that his life might live long after his departure.
Rockford Press (OH); July 8, 1910
Contributed by Elaine Geyer

DIES AFTER LONG ILLNESS - Miss Mary Keller Was Sick Twenty Months
Miss Mary Keller, nearly seventeen years old, and the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Henry Keller, died about 9:30 o'clock Monday night at the family home, 515 West Superior street, after an illness of an affection, of the kidneys which extended over a period of twenty months. Miss Keller was born in Fort Wayne Sept. 14, 1888. She was an unusually bright and attractive young woman, popular with all who knew her, and her death, which occurred just as she was budding into womanhood, is particularly sad. She was a member of St. Paul's Catholic church and of the young ladies' sodality of that congregation. Her father is a member of the well-known stone contracting firm of Keller & Braun. The funeral services will be held Thursday at 9 a.m. at St. Paul's Catholic Church.
Fort Wayne Journal Gazette, Allen County, Indiana; Tuesday Morning, June 27, 1905
Contributed by Karin King

Mrs. Cathren King, Age Nearly 83, Found Dead in Her Home Saturday.
The first knowledge came of her death, Saturday morning, when her daughter Mrs. Ellen Hartzog Snyder entered the home to see her mother and was shocked to find her body lying on the floor, in a position that indicated that death had been instantaneous. Her son, Frank King, who was waiting outside in the automobile, came in and witnessed the sad happening. Mrs. King had spent the winter with this son and daughter at Ohio City, and Thursday, came over to her own home here for a short stay. She spent Thursday night with Mrs. John King, and on Friday morning went over to her own home preparatory to returning to Ohio City on the noon train. The neighbors, not seeing her again, supposed she had gone away, and it did not occur to them to visit the home. Saturday morning the son and daughter were going by automobile to Celina, and they stopped at the home, the daughter bringing some extra warm clothing for her mother so she might ride back home with them in the machine when they returned. Mrs. King had been in her usual health and gave no indication that death was so near at hand. The funeral service was held Monday afternoon from the Friends Church, Rev. O.H. Trader in charge. Burial was made in Riverside Cemetery. Cathren King, daughter of Valentine and Rachel Mihm was born in Seneca County, New York, May 15th, 1835, and departed this life on March 22, 1918, aged 82 years, 10 months and 7 days. She was the sixth of a family of seven children. In the year 1853, she was united in marriage to Amisy [Amasa] King, and to this union were born five children, Emma and Taylor King, Ellen Snyder and Frank King of Ohio City, and Lewis King of Lima. One daughter Emma died in infancy and Taylor King answered the call about four years ago. Her husband, who was a veteran of the Civil War, passed away in the year of 1870, leaving her the care of four children whom she reared to manhood and womanhood. She was converted in her youth and united in the Church of God. About nine years ago, she united with the Friends Church in Rockford and has lived a contant Christian life ever since. She was faithful in her attendance at all services as long as her health would permit her to do so, always ready to give a reason for the hope that lieth within. She was a loyal supporter of the church. She had lived in Rockford for 32 years, enjoying the friendship and esteem of many neighbors and friends. She leaves as a legacy to her children and grandchildren an unwavering faith in the "Word of God." She leaves to mourn their loss two sisters, Sophie Putman, aged 86 years, and Luvina King, aged 80 years, both living near Rockford; three children, fifteen grandchildren, and eight great grandchildren and a host of friends.
Rockford Press, Mercer County, OH; March 28, 1918
Contributed by Elaine Geyer

FATHER AND SON KILLED IN FIRE
Swan, Ind., May 25 - Otto Klem, of Swan, Ind., and his three-year-old son Dwight were burned to death at 11 o'clock last night in a fire which destroyed Mr. Klem's general store and the family residence in the rear of the building. The entire village of Swan, which is two miles north of Laotto, Ind., was aroused to assist in putting out the blaze. Mr. and Mrs. Klem and their seven children resided in the rear of the store and were awakened by flames bursting into their house. All of the family save the little son got out of the house. Mr. Klem went back into the burning building to get the boy, who was asleep on the second floor of the residence. After he had reached the lad and started to make an escape, the store building fell in with a crash, burying the father and son.
Berne Witness, Adams County, Indiana; Friday, May 26, 1911
Contributed by Karin King

Mrs. Susan Kline, who has resided for more than half a century in Allen county, died Saturday at her home in Cedar Creek township, of paralysis. She had been an invalid ever since a former attack of the malady, about two years ago. Mrs. Kline was a native of Pennsylvania, but came to this county when a young woman. She was the widow of Elias Kline, who died at Nashville, Tenn., from wounds received in battle during the latter part of the civil war. She is survived by a son, Henry Kline, of St. Joe township, and by three grandchildren and one great-grandchild. The funeral services will be held today at 2:30 p.m. at the Parker M. E. church, the Rev. Clark officiating.
Fort Wayne Journal Gazette, Allen County, Indiana; Tuesday morning, June 27, 1905
Contributed by Karin King

MRS. L. H. LINDER DIED AT ANGOLA
Many of the older singers in Berne received their first instruction in voice culture of Mrs. Laura H. Linder, for many years music teacher at the Tri-State College at Angola. She was also the first trained singer who ever appeared before an audience in Berne as soloist, assisting in the first rendition of the oratorio "Creation" on New-year's night of 1891. Her many friends in Berne and elsewhere will be sorry to learn that she died on Monday evening, May 15, at the Angola hospital where she had been taken the evening before. She had been ill for many months with Bright's disease. Burial took place from her late home in Angola last Thursday. Mother Linder, as all her students called her, was a resident of Angola for over fifty years.
Berne Witness, Adams County, Indiana; Tuesday, May 23, 1911
Contributed by Karin King

FALLS TO DEATH FROM HICKORY TREE
Noah, the eldest son of Daniel Lederman and wife, living about 1 1/2 miles west of this place, met death last Thursday by falling from a hickory tree, a distance of 46 feet to the ground. He was holding onto a dead limb and proceeded to knock down the nuts with a small stick. He put too much weight on the dead which broke, precipitating him to the ground below. - Grabill Review
Indiana death record gives birth as Sept. 28, 1897; death Aug. 31, 1911; burial Sept. 2, 1911 Yaggy Cemetery, Grabill, Allen County, IN; parents, Dan Lederman & Katie Neuhouser
Berne Witness, Adams County, Indiana; Friday, Sept. 8, 1911
Contributed by Karin King

Son of T. E. Macy, Died of Injuries Received in a Street Car Wreck
John Macy, aged 37, of Marion, who formerly lived east of Berne and is well known by many people here was fatally injured in a street car wreck on the Indiana Union Traction line at Anderson last Wednesday. Six other parties were injured, three seriously. The city car had stopped and allowed five passengers to alight and conductor Helms was in the act of starting the car again when an interurban car crashed into the rear of his car with terrible force, telescoping the frail city car and tearing the car body to pieces. John Macy, Conductor Helms and Sam Osborne, of Anderson were standing in the rear vestibule of the city car. Their feet were caught between the floors of the two cars when the crash came and they were wedged between the cars in such a way that considerable difficulty was experienced in extricating them. Mr. Lacy also received several internal injuries and was taken to the hospital where he died a few hours later. Mr. Lacy had been traveling for a Cincinnati chemical house and had intended to return home to Marion Saturday to celebrate his 37th birthday with his family. He is survived by his wife, formerly Miss Eva Paxton, an 8 year old son, a daughter 5 years old, his parents, Mr. and Mrs. T. E. Macy of Geneva, two brothers, Hon. Macy of Berne and Adolphus Macy of Portland and four sisters, Mrs. Frank Sullivan of Portland, Mrs. Will Showalter of Keystone, Mrs. T. T. Overshiner and Mrs. Jesse Sailors of Marion. Funeral was held Saturday. The blinding light from the inbound Marion car was responsible for the accident.
unknown source; [buried Estates of Serenity, Marion, Grant County, IN 12/9/1874-12/7/1911]
Contributed by Karin King

Robert LeRoy Mann, 74, a native of Adams County, died December 14 at Kaiser Permanante Hospital in Los Angeles, California. He had resided in Los Angeles since 1927. Mr. Mann was born at Decatur, March 11, 1903, the son of Harlo and Aurora Cook Mann. He attended Decatur High School and the General Electric Apprentice School in Fort Wayne. He was an electrician at the Los Angeles Herald-Examiner until his retirement in 1968. Mr. Mann married Hazel Rouse June 8, 1924. Surviving are the wife; two sons, Robert of West Covina, California and Allen, Rochester, New York; two grandsons; three brothers, Carl, Ossian; Clifford, Decatur and Wilson, Monroe and two sisters, Florence Grossman of LaFontaine and Louise Egal of Evansville. Services were held at Rosehills Memorial Park, Whittier, California. Mr. and Mrs. Wilson Mann and son, Marvin of Monroe attended the services.
Newspaper clipping from the Florence Gause collection dated December 21, 1977
Contributed by Elaine Geyer

The death of Herman Miller, which occurred at Michigan City prison while serving a sentence for complicity in the case of the murder of Marshal Croy at Woodburn, is said to have resulted after an operation for appendicitis.
Berne Witness, Adams County, Indiana; Tuesday, Nov. 7, 1911
Contributed by Karin King

Services for Maxine E. Mills, Hartford City, a native of Jay County, were held Monday in the Pitman-Richman Funeral Home, Eaton. Burial was in the Union Cemetery south of Eaton. Mrs. Mills died Friday in Blackford County Hospital following a long illness. Born in Jay County, she had lived most of her life in the Hartford City area. Surviving are her husband, Harold; one son, Dean Mills, Hartford City; one daughter, Mrs. Joe (Jane) Burnworth, Hartford City; five sisters, three brothers; six grandchildren; and nine great- grandchildren.
Newspaper clipping from the Florence Gause collection dated February 5, 1991
Contributed by Elaine Geyer

Mrs. Albert McCardle, and sons of Monroe township, left yesterday for Daleville, to attend the funeral of her father-in-law, James Patterson.
Berne Witness, Adams County, Indiana; Tuesday, Aug. 8, 1911
Contributed by Karin King

Isaac Putman died at his residence in Rockford, Ohio, November 2, 1894, of typhoid fever, aged 65 years, 1 month and 19 days. He came to this county fifty five years ago in company with his father, mother and one sister and remainded in Mercer and Van Wert counties until his death. He was united in marriage with Sophia Mihm in 1852, to whose union were born nine children, two of whom preceded their father to rest.
Rockford Press, Mercer County, OH
Contributed by Elaine Geyer

Mrs. Isaac Putman died at the home of her daughter, Mrs. W.M. Harp, three miles east of Ohio City, on Monday, May 3, at two p.m. After several weeks of suffering, death came as a message to release her spirit from this earthly home. She was hugely respected by all who knew her in the community where she lived. She was converted and baptized when young under the pastor ship of Tobias Koogle. Her life has been an example of faithful, loving and devoted service; she has lived a long and useful life, now her work is done and she has gone to her reward. Mrs. Putman, whose maiden name was Sophia Mihm, was born in Seneca County, New York State, January 6, 1832, aged 88 years, 3 months and 26 days. On August 15, 1850, she was united in marriage to Isaac Putman, who preceded her to the great beyond. To this union was born nine children, Fidelia King, deceased; Hugh Putman, Ohio City; Solomon Putman, of Van Wert; Elic [Alec] Putman, Van Wert; Mary Krick of Celina; Rosa Agler and Margaret Harp, of Van Wert County; Lora and Frankie who died in infancy; forty-three grand-children, sixty-nine great grandchildren. Besides these she leaves one sister, Lovina King, and a host of friends and relatives to mourn her departure.
"Farewell Mother thou has left us, and we now must say farewell: How we loved our darling mother, earthly tongues can never tell. Farewell mother, but not forever, soon we will meet on that bright shore. Won't that be a happy meeting when we meet to part no more?
"She was one of the pioneers, moving from Seneca County New York, to the county line, driving through in a big wagon by the way of Buffalo some 75 or 80 years ago. Her funeral was conducted by Rev. C.T. Betts, interment in the Ridge Cemetery beside her husband who preceded her to the spirit world some 25 years ago. 'Good Bye Mother,' but we hope to meet you in that morning.
Ohio City Progress (OH);May 14, 1920
Contributed by Elaine Geyer

MARGUERITE RAUCH, 75, died Saturday in Fort Wayne. Born in Hoagland, she was a housekeeper at Towne House Retirement Center, retiring in 1989 after 6 1/2 years. She also worked in custodial care at Our Lady of Hope Catholic Church for 9 1/2 years. Surviving are her husband, Charles; eight sons, Steven C. of Albion, Edward W. of Wolcottville, Robert A., Donald J., Bernard W., Thomas J. and William E., all of Fort Wayne, and Jerome L. of Decatur; two daughters, Theresa D. Jewett of Leo and Karen E. Renfrow of St. Joe; two sisters, Mary M. Ruhl of Hoagland and Clara G. Macy of Fort Wayne; two brothers, Frank J. DeKoninck of Fort Wayne and Charles S. DeKoninck of Monroeville; 20 grandchildren; two stepgrandchildren; a great-grandson; and seven step great-grandchildren. Services at 10 a.m. Thursday at Our Lady of Good Hope Catholic Church with calling an hour before services. Calling also from 2 to 9 p.m. Wednesday at D.O. McComb & Sons Maplewood Park Funeral Home, 4017 Maplecrest Road, with rosary at 8:30 p.m. Burial in St. Joseph Cemetery, Hessen Cassel.
Journal Gazette, The (Fort Wayne, IN); Monday, 9 September 2002
Contributed by Karin King

William G. Remenschneider, 85, route 1, Parent Road, New Haven, father of Mrs. Edward (Esther) Selking of route 1, Decatur, died at 4:05 p.m. Monday in Parkview memorial hospital, where he had been a patient eight days. Mr. Selking is the Adams county assessor. He was a native of Adams township and lived most of his life in Milan township. Mr. Remenschneider retired 17 years ago from Thurman Equity, where he served as manager for 30 years. Mrs. Selking's father was active in the Democrat party, serving as a precinct committeeman for a number of years. He also served on the township advisory board. Surviving are three daughters, Mrs. Alma Hemsoth of Fort Wayne; Mrs. Earl Federspeil of route 2, New Haven; and Mrs. Edward (Esther) Selking of route 1, Decatur; one son, Elmer of route 1, New Haven; and one sister, Mrs. Marie Hankel of New Haven. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday in St. Peter's Lutheran Church. Friends may call from 7 to 9 p.m. today and from 2 to 5 and 7 to 9 p.m. Wednesday at E. Harper & Son funeral home, New Haven, and after 12 noon Thursday at the church. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Preferred memorials are contributions to the St. Peter's Future Expansion Fund.
Decatur Daily Democrat, Adams County, Indiana; Friday, January 7, 1975
Contributed by Janice Vasilovski

Mrs. Frieda G. Rowe, 78, of Bradenton, Fla., a native of Monroeville and a former resident of Fort Wayne, died at 4 p.m. Monday in Memorial Hospital, Bradenton. She had lived in the Fort Wayne area until moving to Florida 25 years ago. Surviving are two sons, Warren of New Haven, and William of Bradenton; two brothers, Richard Marquardt of Ossian, and Howard Marquardt of Sturgis, Mich. Funeral services will be held at 1:30 p.m. Friday in C.M. Sloan & Sons funeral home, Fort Wayne, where friends may call after 2 p.m. Thursday. Burial will be in 100F cemetery, New Haven.
Decatur Daily Democrat, Adams County, Indiana; Friday, January 8, 1975
Contributed by Janice Vasilovski

Alda E. Rybolt of Owensburg, a former resident of Fort Wayne and a sister of Mrs. Louise Herman of Ossian, died at 8 a.m. Monday in Bedford hospital. She was a retired employee of the General Electric Co., Fort Wayne. Surviving are her husband, William; a son, Raymond of Owensburg; and three sisters, Mrs. Florence Droege of Fort Wayne; Mrs. Louise Herman of Ossian; and Mrs. Mary Kumfer of Markle. Funeral arrangements are pending at the Day & Carter funeral home, located at Bedford. [buried Cresthaven Memory Gardens, Lawrence County, IN]
Decatur Daily Democrat, Adams County, Indiana; Friday, January 7, 1975
Contributed by Janice Vasilovski

Joan A. Schwartz
Joan A. Schwartz, 83, of Fort Wayne, passed away on Monday, March 26, 2012, at Lutheran Hospital. She was born Nov. 16, 1928, in Fulton County, Ohio to the late Harry and Emma (Schroeder) Meyer. She worked in the accounting department for Phelps Dodge, retiring in 1985. Mrs. Schwartz was a member of Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church where she volunteered with the Nimble Needles Group and she was a past member of the Fort Wayne Women's Club. Surviving are sons, Art (Peggy) Schwartz of Fort Wayne and Carl (Nancy) Schwartz of Columbia City; sisters, Ester Dettmer of Ossian, Jeannette Gordon of Fort Wayne, and Mary (Glen) Vogel of Defiance, Ohio; seven grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren. Also preceding her in death was her first husband, Joel Elston in 1977 and her second husband, Lawrence Richard "Dick" Schwartz in January, 2012. The funeral service will be Thursday, at 10:30 a.m. at Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church, 1819 Reservation Drive, Fort Wayne, IN 46819 with visitation from 9:30 a.m. till the service. Visitation will also be on Wednesday from 3 to 7 p.m. at Elzey-Patterson-Rodak Home For Funerals, 6810 Old Trail Road, Fort Wayne, IN 46809. Burial will be in St. John Lutheran Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church or Cancer Services of NE Indiana. Please visitwww.elzey-patterson-rodakfuneralhome.comto leave on line condolences.
Columbia Post & Mail (IN); Wednesday, March 28, 2012, Page A3
Contributed by Scott Bowman

John Shaffer Dies at 52
John W. Shaffer, 52, Rockford, died at 8 p.m. Saturday at Gibbons Hospital, Celina, where he had been a patient one week. Cause of death was a heart condition. He was born April 21, 1921, in Mercer County, the son of Ralph and Mary (Zizelman) Shaffer. He married Grayce Gibson Jan. 7, 1940, and she survives with his parents, Rockford; two sons, Harold and Gale, both of Rockford; one daughter, Mrs. Tom (Ruth) Myer, Rockford; five grandchildren, three sisters, Mrs. Arlo (Margaret) McKean, Decatur, Ind.; Mrs. Hugh (Opal) Dull, Celina; and Mrs. Robert (Florence) Courtney, Rockford. He was manager of the Berne Equity Co., Tama, for 25 years. At the time of his death he was employed at the American Legion Post, Rockford, and was a member of Aerie 1292, Fraternal Order of Eagles. Funeral services will be held at 1:30 p.m. Wednesday at Ketcham-Ripley Funeral Home, Rockford, the Rev. Denver Noggle officiating. Burial will be in Mercer Memory Gardens. Friends may call at the funeral home after 2:30 p.m. Tuesday.
Celina Daily Standard, Mercer County, OH; August 6, 1973
Contributed by Elaine Geyer

Mary Shaffer Dies at 74
Mrs. Mary Shaffer, 74, R. 3, Rockford, died at 2 p.m. yesterday at her residence. She was born Sept. 5, 1899, in Mercer County, the daughter of William and Matilda (Sutton) Zizelman. She married Ralph (Sandy) Shaffer July 23, 1919, and he survives with three daughters, Mrs. Hugh (Opal) Cull, Celina; Mrs. Arlo (Margaret) McKean, Decatur, Ind.; Mrs. Robert (Florence) Courtney, Rockford; 16 grandchildren, two brothers, Rich Zizelman, Celina; Albert, Mendon; and one sister Mrs. Floyd (Lena) Mihm, R. 3, Celina. She was preceded in death by one son, John. Funeral services will be held at 1:30 p.m. Sunday at Ketcham-Ripley Funeral Home, Rockford. Burial will be in Mercer Memory Gardens. Friends may call at the funeral home after 1:30 p.m. Saturday.
Celina Daily Standard, Mercer County, OH; on or near 1/23/1974
Contributed by Elaine Geyer

Ralph (Sandy) Joseph Shaffer, 78, R. 3, Rockford, died Monday at Van Wert County Hospital where he had been a patient for three weeks. Mr. Shaffer was born Oct. 1, 1898, in Rockford, the son of John and Elizabeth Denman Shaffer. One July 23, 1919, he married Mary M. Zizelman who died Jan. 23, 1974. He is survived by three daughters, Mrs. Margaret McKean, Decatur Ind.; Mrs. Hugh (Opal) Dull, 125 E Fulton St., Celina; and Mrs. Robert (Florence) Courtney, R. 3, Rockford; two brothers, Paul Shaffer, Van Wert, and Leo (Pete) Shaffer, R. 2, Rockford; two sisters, Mrs. Stella Eicher, Bradenton, Fla., and Mrs. Blanche Bennet, Mendon; 16 grandchildren and 19 great grandchildren. One son, two brothers and a sister are deceased. Mr. Shaffer was a retired farmer who also had been employed at the Big Elevator. Funeral services will be held at 2:30 p.m. Wednesday at Ketcham-Ripley Funeral Home Rockford, the Rev. David Wilson officiating. Burial will be in Mercer Memory Gardens. Friends may call at the funeral home after 3:30 p.m. today.
Celina Daily Standard, Mercer County, OH; Monday, July 4, 1977
Contributed by Elaine Geyer

Mrs. Grover Siler died late Thursday afternoon at the family home, 319 West William street, following an illness due to influenza and pneumonia. The husband, two children and the parents, Mr. and Mrs. J. Hess, survive her. The remains have been moved to the home of the parents 1204 Huron street, where services will be held Sunday at 2 p.m., Rev. Shirey officiating.
Fort Wayne News & Sentinel, Allen County, Indiana; February 28, 1919
Contributed by Karin King

Louis Galen "Pood" Stetler, 73, of 8842 N. Center St., Bryant, Indiana, died Tuesday, October 1, 2002, at the V.A. Hospital in Indianapolis, IN. He was born August 25, 1929, in Willshire to the late Roxay Stetler and Mary A. (Hey) Stetler-Boltz. Mr. Stetler worked several years at International Harvester in Ft. Wayne, IN. He was a member of the V.F.W. Post 6751 in Geneva, IN. He was a U.S. Army Veteran of WWII. Surviving is a son, Michael L. Stetler of Waco, TX; three daughters, Dawn L. Breisch of Wren, Suzette Landis of Fort Wayne and Kelley Stetler of Decatur; several grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was also preceded in death by five brothers and four sisters. Funeral services were held Friday at Downing Funeral Home, Geneva. Burial was in Willshire Cemetery.
Newspaper clipping from the Florence Gause collection dated October 2, 2002
Contributed by Elaine Geyer

Grace L. Suhr, 77, of Mendon died Monday, May 6, in Shane Hill Nursing Home. She was born on July 14, 1913, in Mendon, a daughter of George W. and Nora (Krugh) Kinkley. On Nov. 9, 1940, she married Lee Suhr and he survives. Other survivors include two daughters, Mrs. Dan (Sally) Dicke of New Bremen, and Mrs. Wally (Nancy) Dimas of Ottawa; and four grandsons. She was preceded in death by a brother and a sister. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday in the W.H. Dick and Sons Funeral Home in Mendon, with the Rev. Judith Johnson to officiate. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Calling hours are from 2-5 and 7-9 p.m. Wednesday in the funeral home.
printed on or near 5/6/1991 from the Celina Daily Standard (OH)
Contributed by Elaine Geyer

Lee Suhr, 81, of Mendon, died Tuesday, Oct. 5 in Joint Township Memorial Hospital, St. Marys. He was born Feb. 23, 1912, in Union Township, son of Henry and Emma (Aufderhar) Suhr. On Nov. 9, 1940, he married Grace L. Kinkley who died May 6, 1991. Survivors include two daughters, Mrs. Dan (Sally) Dicke of New Bremen and Mrs. Wally (Nancy) Dimas of Ottawa; two brothers, Joe Suhr of Bryant, Ind., and Paul Suhr of Wichita, Kan.; one sister, Hope Nevergall of Celina; four grandsons and two great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by three brothers and four sisters. Funeral services were held Friday, Oct. 8 in W.H. Dick & Sons Funeral Home, Mendon, with the Rev. Jack Bynum officiating. Burial was in the Hamilton Bethel Church Cemetery, Mendon.
printed on or near 10/5/1993 from the Celina Daily Standard (OH)
Contributed by Elaine Geyer

GRUESOME MURDER IN FORT WAYNE
Confessing to the police to have killed his wife in a fight on the night of Sept. 24th and showing the police the spot in the backyard of his residence lot, where the body was soon uncovered, was the substance of one of most horrible murder stories ever told in Fort Wayne. The self confessed murderer is William Walker, a telephone lineman, aged 27, arrested Thursday afternoon just as he was about to leave the city. Walker claims to have killed his wife in self defense as she was about to kill him with a hatchet. Mrs. Walker was a sister to Mrs. Bert Heller, son of Ed Heller, of this place.
Berne Witness, Adams County, Indiana; Tuesday, Nov. 28, 1911
Contributed by Karin King

HEAD OF WEILER SYNDICATE DIES
Abe Weiler, aged sixty-five years, a wealthy merchant and head of the Weiler syndicate, with business interests in the states of Ohio, Indiana and Illinois, passed away at Columbus, O., following an operation two weeks ago for uraemic poisoning. He was born in Germany in 1847, coming to this country at the age of sixteen, where two years were spent before coming to Union City, where he became a clerk in the store owned by R. Kirschbaum, of Indianapolis. He aided all his brothers to get an excellent start in business. At the time of his death he was the head of the syndicate with the following stores: A. Weiler & Brothers, Hartford City; Weiler Bros., Portland; Weiler Brothers & Lumpkin, Farmland; J. Steifel's Sons, Angola; Straus & Lewis, Danville, Ill.; Levy & Weiler, Columbus, Ohio; Weiler and Bros. & Long, Fort Recovery, Ohio. Four brothers survive the deceased.
Berne Witness, Adams County, Indiana; Friday, Dec. 22, 1911
Contributed by Karin King

Mary Mahala, daughter of Worthy C. and Delphia Williams was born near Poling, October 19, 1901 and died July 4, 1902, aged 8 months and 13 days. Funeral services on Saturday, July 5, conducted by Mrs. Martha Thornton, burial in Pennville.
Portland Weekly Commercial, Jay County, IN; July 10, 1902
Contributed by Jim Cox

LINN GROVE, Nov. 1 - Peter Stuckey left Wednesday on the 10:12 car for Leo, to attend the funeral of Joseph Yoder, father of Daniel Yoder, formerly of this place.
Berne Witness, Adams County, Indiana; Friday, Nov. 3, 1911
Contributed by Karin King

Zizelman Rites Slated
Christ Zizelman, 80, R. 3, Celina, died at 12:15 a.m. today at his home. Born March 4, 1887 in Mercer County, he was the son of the late William and Mary Mathilda Sutton Zizelman. He was marred to Edith Brush in 1912 and she survives with five children, Mrs. Harry (Mabel) Findley, Celina; Charles, R. 3, Rockford; Edna Mae, at home; Mrs. Nick (Ruby) Priddy, R. 1, Ohio City; and Mrs. Cloyd (Mabel) Boroff, Celina; two sisters, Mrs. Ralph Shaffer, R. 3, Celina and Mrs. Floyd Mihm, R. 3, Celina; three brothers, Frank, R. 3, Rockford; Albert, R. 1, Mendon, and Rich, R. 3, Celina; five grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by four brothers. Funeral Services will be held at 1:30 p.m. Wednesday in the Ketcham-Ripley Funeral Home. Burial will follow in the Friend's Chapel Cemetery. Friends may call at the funeral home after 1:30 p.m. Tuesday.
Celina Daily Standard, Mercer County, OH; on or near Sept, 18, 1967
Contributed by Elaine Geyer

Celina Woman Dead At 92
Edith Zizelman, 92, R. 3, Celina, died Friday at 8:15 p.m. at Shane Hill Nursing Home, Rockford, where she had been a patient the past five years. She was born May 10, 1892 in Mercer County the daughter of William and Iva (Brookhart) Brush. On Feb. 2, 1912 she was married to Chris Zizelman who preceded her in death Sept., 1967. Survivors include three daughters, Marie Findley and Mrs. Floyd (Mabel) Boroff, both of Celina, and Mrs. Nick (Ruby) Priddy, Ohio City; one son, Charles, Rockford; two sisters, Bertha Zizelman, Rockford, and Mrs. Floyd (Margaret) Smith, Celina; two brothers, Noel Brush, Mendon, and Ward Brush, Celina; nine grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. One daughter, Edna, one sister, Verna and one brother, Gail, preceded her in death. Services will be held Tuesday at 11 a.m. at Ketcham-Ripley Funeral Home, Rockford. The Rev. Paul Tewell will officiate and burial will be in Friends Chapel Cemetery. Friends may call at the funeral home Monday from 2-9 p.m. and after 9 a.m. Tuesday until the hour of services.
Celina Daily Standard, Mercer County, OH; on or near Jan. 25, 1985
Contributed by Elaine Geyer

Mrs. Mary Matilda Sutton Zizelman, daughter of the late Jessie Sutton and Anna Van Horn Sutton, was born on August 19, 1869 and died at the Otis hospital, Sunday, July 5th, 1942, at the age of 72 years, 10 months and 16 days. She was united in marriage October 29, 1885 to William Zizelman. To this union 13 children were born. Her husband preceded her in death July 31, 1928, just 14 years ago. One son, Fritz Zizelman died December 28, 1928, at the age of 20 years. Three daughters died in infancy. The surviving children are: Christ Zizelman, Albert Zizelman, Richard Zizelman and Mrs. Ralph Shaffer, Celina; John Zizelman, Monroeville, Ind; William Zizelman, Frank Zizelman and Mrs. Floyd Mihm, Rockford; Charles Zizelman Mendon. There are also 33 grandchildren; 12 great grandchildren; 1 sister, Mrs. Belle Harden, Ann Arbor, Mich.; one brother, Henry Sutton, Rockford; one half-sister, Mrs. Clyde Shingledecker, Rockford; one half-brother, Oscar Williams, Rockford; and a host of relatives and friends. She was a friend and mother to all who knew her. Her passing was a great shock to us all. She will be greatly missed by her family and friends who are many. The nurses and doctors of the Otis hospital also were grieved to see her pass away as they cared for her so tenderly.
unknown source
Contributed by Elaine Geyer

Phyllis "Elaine" Zizelman, 77, passed away at Celina Manor Nursing Home, on Wednesday, January 20, 2016 at 9:45 am. She was born December 1, 1938 in Celina, OH to Ed W. and Viola M. (Lawrence) Hone, both preceded her in death. Elaine married Robert R. Zizelman on November 1, 1958, they were together for 57 years; he survives at the residence in Mendon, OH. Other survivors include five children: Robin (Kimberly) Zizelman, Mendon, Kevin (Loretta) Zizelman, Kendallville, IN, Timothy Zizelman, Mendon, Rick Zizelman, Ft. Wayne, IN, and Deborah (John) Buckland, Mendon; four sisters, Inez Goins, Arcanum, OH, Ermal Amstutz, Berne, IN, Mary (Duane) Boroff, Mercer, OH, and Barb (Bob) Thees, Celina; two brothers, George (Dorothy) Hone, St. Marys, and John Hone, Florida; a sister-in-law, Janice Hone, Mendon; nine grandchildren and fourteen great grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. Elaine was preceded in death by two brothers, Carl and Frank Hone; a sister, Doris Snyder; four brother-in-law's, Clyde Goings, Valier Amstutz, Orrille Snyder, and Sherman McCourt; and a sister-in-law, Sandy Hone. She was a 1956 graduate of Celina Senior High School. She worked for ten plus years at Sharps Canning Factory in Rockford and retired after 20 plus years at Two Way Products in Rockford. She enjoyed gardening, bird watching and loved flowers. Elaine was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, and will be sadly missed by those who adored her. Funeral services will begin at 2:00 pm on Friday, January 22, 2016, in the Cisco Funeral Home, Celina with Pastor Randy Christian officiating. The family will receive friends from 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm prior to the service on Friday. Burial will be held at later date.
unknown source
Contributed by Elaine Geyer

William Frederick Zizelman, son of William and Christina Zizelman, was born in Wittenburg, Germany Nov. 2, 1859 and departed this life on July 31. 1928, at the age of 68 years, 8 months and 29 days. He came to this country in 1881, in 1883 he settled on a farm in Mercer County where he remained until death. He was united in marriage on Oct. 29, 1885 to Mary M Sutton, to this union were born 13 children, three of whom died in infancy. He leaves to mourn, his wife, eight sons and two daughters namely Christ, William, John, Frank, Charles, Albert, Fritz and Richard, Mrs. Floyd Mihm, Mrs. Ralph Shaffer. A sister, Mrs. Jacob Gehring of Delphos, nineteen grandchildren and a host of relatives and friends. Mr. Zizelman always had the best health up until the last two years when his health began to fail due to heart trouble which caused his death.
unknown source
Contributed by Elaine Geyer