Suzanne C. Armstrong, 74, passed away on January 8, 2018. She was born in Fort Wayne, IN on January 18, 1943, the daughter of the late Edward and Neva Hunsaker. Suzanne graduated from Northside High School in 1959. She went on to become a school librarian for FWCS, before moving to Indianapolis, where she worked at Indianapolis Public Schools as a librarian until her retirement. Suzanne started the summer lunch program at McMillen Park for the schools. She enjoyed the Charlie Brown Thanksgivings that she hosted at the Media Center. She enjoyed word searches, crafts, reading romance novels, reading to the kids, swimming, motorcycle riding and bird watching. More than anything she enjoyed spending time with her family, and playing with her grandkids. Surviving are her husband, George Armstrong; children, Rhonda (Ken) Eberle, and Michele Jackson; grandchildren, Justin Eberle, Kayla Jackson, and Cole Eberle; great-grandchildren, RJ and Evelyn; and her beloved dog, Toby. She was preceded in death by her sister, Georgia Smith; and son-in-law, Ken Eberle. A funeral service will be held on Sunday, January 21, 2018 at 11AM at D.O. McComb and Sons Foster Park Chapel, 6301 Fairfield Ave., Fort Wayne, IN 46807, with calling 1 hour prior. Visitation will also take place at the funeral home on Saturday, January 20, 2018 from 2-4p and 6-8p. Memorial contributions may be made to the family.
D.O. McComb & Sons Funeral Home online obit (accessed January 10, 2018)

Edna S. Babcock, passed away peacefully January 19, 2018. She was born in Decatur, IN on March 30, 1921, the daughter of the late Jacob and Suzanne (Schwartz) Liechty. Edna worked for T&T tailoring, General Electric, and 20 years at Roger's Market before her retirement in 1988. She enjoyed flowers, sewing, and crafts. Edna was a member of the Delta Sigma Kappa Sorority, and the Crescent Avenue United Methodist Church where she was active in the United Methodist Women's Group, and several church activities. Surviving are her sons; Keith (Sandi) Babcock, and Leonard (Mary) Babcock; grandchildren, Marie (Jeremy) Fox, Stephen (Linda)Babcock, Gregory (Kristine) Babcock, and Michael Babcock; great-grandchildren, Jaelyn Fox, Trenten Fox, and Oona Babcock; brother, Milton Liechty. She was preceded in death by her husband, Marshall Babcock in 1977; 4 sisters and 1 brother. Funeral service will take place at 11AM on Friday, January 26, 2018 at D.O. McComb and Sons Maplewood Park, 4017 Maplecrest Road, Fort Wayne, IN 46815, with calling 1 hour prior. Visitation will take place on Thursday, January 25, 2018 from 2-4 and 6-8 also at the funeral home. Burial will take place in Highland Park Cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Crescent Ave. United Methodist church.
D.O. McComb & Sons Funeral Home online obit (accessed January 21, 2018)

Wilfred Back was shot by a highway robber near Hammond and fatally wounded. His watch and money were taken.
Waveland Independent, Montgomery County, IN; 5/6/1904
Contributed by Karen Zach

Jean Baker, 89, of Kendallville died Monday, January 15, 2018, at 8:25 a.m. at Parkview Regional Hospital, Fort Wayne. She was born August 14, 1928, in Kendallville to Forrest and Leoma (Stonebraker) France. On September 10, 1950, in Kendallville she married David Baker. He survives in Kendallville. Mrs. Baker and her husband were long-time owners and operators of Bakers' Fruit & Flower Farm in Kendallville. She would rise early every morning to make fresh donuts for their customers. She was a lifelong member of Trinity Church United Methodist in Kendallville and a member of Tri Kappa. Jean enjoyed knitting and made special Christmas stockings for all of her family. She was known as the "Cookie Lady" at Trinity Church and served on the hospitality team until recently. Also surviving are two sons, Brad (Charna) Baker of Kendallville and Brian (Doris) Baker of Kendallville; four daughters, Barb (Eric) Burkhardt of Fort Wayne, Beth (Noah) Miller of Columbia South Carolina, Brenda (Mike) Jansen of Kendallville, and Becky (Paul) Brown of Kendallville; 11 grandchildren, Rob Baker, Drew (Ashley) Baker, Cal Baker, Nik (Beth) Burkhardt, Nate (Kayla) Burkhardt, Sarah Baker, Emily (Tim) Ryan, Riley Miller, Melinda (Joel) Pippinger, Kevin (Amanda) Jansen, and Claire Brown; 16 great-grandchildren; a sister, Betty Preston of Kendallville; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by a sister, Janice Fleisher; and a grandson, Cory Brown. Funeral services will be Friday, January 19, 2018, at 11 a.m. at Trinity Church United Methodist, 229 South State Street, Kendallville with Rev. Chris Stephens officiating. Burial will be in Lake View Cemetery, Kendallville. Pallbearers will be her grandchildren. Calling is Thursday, January 18, 2018, from 3 to 7 p.m. at Young Family Funeral Home, Kendallville Chapel, 222 South State Street, Kendallville and one hour prior to the service at the church on Friday. Preferred memorials are to the Cory A. Brown Memorial Fund in care of the Community Foundation of Noble County, 1599 Lincolnway South, Ligonier, Indiana, 46767, or to Trinity Church United Methodist.
Miller-Stewart Funeral Home online obit (accessed January 15, 2018)

Nina "Nena" L. Baker, 72, of Middlebury, died at 6:06 pm, on Sunday, December 17, at her residence surrounded by her family. She had battled cancer for two years. She was born on July 26, 1945, in Ligonier, to William and Margaret (Franks) Hunter. On January 15, 1972 she married Joseph E. Baker; he died April 29, 1992. Surviving are two daughters, Tiffany Baker-Miller of Shipshewana, Susan (Chad Lundgren) Baker of Cassopolis, MI; six grandchildren, Kaylee Schrock, Kiah Schrock, Brendan Miller, Joseph Lundgren, Jaxon Lundgren and Jalyssa Lundgren; three brothers, Jerry (JoElla) Hunter of Toledo, OH, Phil (Sandy) Hunter of Cromwell, Nelson (Carol) Hunter of Ligonier; two sisters, Janet (Gene) Wolff of St. Joe, MI, Marilyn (Wayne) Eash of Ligonier; brother-in-law, Ron (Darlene) Baker of Gas City. She was preceded in death by her husband and parents. Nena was a member of Bristol United Methodist Church where she sang in the choir. She was the previous owner of the Cow Bell Restaurant in Bristol. Nena never knew a stranger and enjoyed camping and golfing and loved her children and grandchildren. Her favorite vacation spot was Myrtle Beach. Visitation will be from 2:00 - 4:00 and 5:00 - 8:00 pm on Wednesday December 20, and for one hour prior to the 11:00 am funeral service on Thursday December 21, all at Bristol United Methodist Church. Services will be conducted by Pastor Gary Lewis. Burial will be in Trout Creek Cemetery, Bristol. Memorials may be given to Bristol United Methodist Church.
Miller-Stewart Funeral Home online obit (accessed December 18, 2017)

Mary Sue (Lassen) Baldwin, 71, passed away Friday, January 12, 2018. Mary was the daughter of the late Erwin and Alma Lassen. Surviving are her siblings, Cathy (David) Overholt of Fort Wayne, Stan (Marge) Lassen of Springfield, MO, Linda (Jack) Florent of Coldwater, MI, Matt Lassen of Coppell, TX, Joe (Caryn) Lassen of Largo, FL; sister-in-law, Myra Lassen of Fort Wayne; step-daughter, Wendi (Ken) Orlando of Covington, KY; step-sons, Mike Baldwin, Tunkhannock, PA, Matt (Tina) Baldwin of Dover, DE and Mark (Sherri) Baldwin of North Ogden, UT; along with many nieces and nephews. Mary was preceded in death by her husband, William "Bill" Baldwin; brothers, John Lassen and Jim Lassen. A memorial service will take place in her home state of Florida in the Spring. Memorials may be made to the donor's choice. D.O. McComb and Sons Maplewood Park Funeral Home.
D.O. McComb & Sons Funeral Home online obit (accessed January 15, 2018)

Patricia A. (Butler) Bales Herring, 79, of Liberty Center, IN, passed away at 9:40 PM on Thursday, January 04, 2018 at her daughter's residence in Bluffton, IN. She was born on Tuesday, July 12, 1938, in Huntington County, IN. She married James P. Herring whom preceded her in death. Patricia, also known as Grandma Pat, was a graduate of Warren High school. She retired from the Southern Wells Schools where she was a cook and custodian. She loved animals. Patricia enjoyed fishing, gardening, flowers, B miniature horses, campfires, swinging on her porch, and attending the Bluffton Street Fair where she had been awarded the Hall of Fame in the Horse & Pony. She was a member of the Circle W Riders Horse Club, and UYB Homemakers Club. Loving Survivors Include her Son - Gary D. Herring, Liberty Center, IN, Daughter - Cindy Zook, Bluffton, IN, Brother - Jim (Marlise) Butler, Libby, MT, Sisters - Bonnie (Ronald) Burns, Poneto, IN, Sue (Steven) Brandt, Bangor, Maine, Carolyn Butler, Tallahassee, FL, 2 Step Grandchildren, and 1 Step Great Grandson. She was preceded in death by her Father - Jonathan Butler, Mother - Edna (Taylor) Butler, Husband - James P. Herring, and Sister - Joan McClearmy. Family and friends may gather to share and remember at Walker & Glancy Funeral Home 109 W Windsor St Montpelier on Thursday, January 18, 2018 from 1:00 PM to 6:30 PM. A service to celebrate her life will follow at 7:00 PM on Thursday, January 18, 2018 with the Rev. Dewey Zent officiating. Preferred memorials: Circle W Riders or To The Family Arrangements are being handled by Walker & Glancy Funeral Home in Montpelier.
Walker & Glancy Funeral Home online obit (accessed January 11, 2018)

Rev. John Bellante, 91, of Warren, IN, passed away at 4:35 PM on Saturday, January 6, 2018 at Heritage Pointe in Warren. He was born on Saturday, January 9, 1926, in Chicago, IL. He married Theodora "Teddy" T. Chiganes on Saturday, April 30, 1949 in Illinois; she passed away on March 1, 2003. He married Minnette R. Hartle on August 14, 2003; she passed away on January 16, 2008. Rev. Bellante was a 1943 graduate of Thorton Twp. High School in Harvey, IL. He received his associate degree at Indiana University. He belonged to the Garrett Evangelical Seminary in Evanston, Illinois. He entered the Ministry in 1970 and was ordained in 1974 and became a member of the Northern Indiana Conference in 1975. Rev. Bellante was the pastor of 5 different churches in Pleasant Grove, Packerton, Montpelier, Portland, and Columbia City. He also was a Chaplain at Heritage Pointe in Warren for 12 years. He was in the U.S. Army Air Corps in World War II serving in the South Pacific from 1943-1946. "I ran the race, finished the course, kept the faith and now I am off to my next appointment." Loving survivors include: Daughter - Judith C. Bellante, Cape Elizabeth, ME, Son - Mark S. (Wife, Susan) Bellante, Pennville, IN, Grandson - John Bellante, Pennville, IN, and Granddaughter - Laura (Tim) Tiggins, Bryant, IN and 4 Great Grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his: Father - Sebastion L. Bellante, Mother - Carmella (Carrado) Bellante, Wife - Theodora T. Chiganes Bellante, Wife - Minnette R. Hartle Bellante, Brothers - Paul Bellante, Charles Bellante, Raymond Bellante, Arthur Bellante,William Bellante, and Joseph Bellante. The times and days of the service are still being determined by the family. Services will be held at Heritage Pointe Applegate Chapel 801 Huntington Ave. Warren, IN. Interment will follow beside his wife Teddy in the Spring Hill Cemetery in Warren. Preferred memorials: Heritage Pointe, 801 Huntington Ave. Warren, IN 46792. Arrangements are being handled by Glancy - H. Brown & Son Funeral Home in Warren.
Glancy & Son Funeral Home online obit (accessed January 7, 2018)

Mrs. Harry Balzar Dies At Auburn
Was the Former Ruth Allen of Columbia City - Ill for Two Years
Mrs. harry Balzar, 51, died at 2 o'clock Tesday afternoon at the Souder hospital in Auburn after suffering a heart attack Monday. She had been in failing health for two years and during that time had submitted to two major operations. Mrs. Balzer was the former Ruth Estella Allen, daughter of James and Elva LaVina Allen and was born in Columbia City, September 13, 1899. She married Harry Balzer of Columbia City and later moved to Auburn. Surviving are the husband, two sons, Harry Balzer, Jr., with the Unites States army in Korea, and Goerge witht he National Guard at Grayling, Mich., and three daughters, Mrs. Dale Nolt and Mrs. Cleon Miller of Columbia city, and Pamela, aged 12, at home; a brother, Heber Allen and a sister, Miss Hazel Allen of this city, and three grandchildren. One sister, Mrs. Ethel Hyre died in Montana a number of years ago. Mrs. Balzer was a member of St. Mark's Lutheran church at Auburn. The body is at the Gerig Funeral Home at Auburn. Funeral services will be held at 2 o'clock Friday afternoon at the funeral home and burial will be in Rose Lawn cemetery in Auburn. The son George has arrived in Auburn from Grayling, Mich., where he is stationed.
Columbia City Commercial-Mail (IN); August 1, 1951
Contributed by Scott Bowmar

Wayne D. Bartman, 85, of Kendallville made his triumphant entry into Heaven on Friday, January 19, 2018, at 8:03 p.m. at his home with his daughter, Karen holding his hand. He had lived in this area since 2005, coming from Lansing, Illinois. He was born July 23, 1932, in Chicago to Rheiner and Marie (Korfagh) Bartman. On September 17, 1955, in Lansing, Illinois, he married Margaret L. "Marge" Bartman. She preceded him in death on May 13, 2008. Passing up many college football scholarships, he enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps. He proudly served three years in Korea during the Korean War. He retired as a truck driver. He was a member of St. John Lutheran Church in Kendallville, but currently was attending chapel services at Lutheran Life Villages. He was a lifetime member of the Kendallville VFW Post 2749 and Kendallville American Legion Post 86. Wayne enjoyed camping, fishing, playing cards, creating stained glass pieces, being with family, and helping to raise his Godson. But, he most enjoyed spending his years with the love of his life, Marge. Surviving are two daughters, Karen Bloom of Kendallville and Lorrie (Daniel) Wolf of Parkville, Missouri; his Godson and grandson, David Wayne (Felicia) Bloom of Kendallville; grandson, Paul (Abby) Wolf of Arlington Heights, Illinois; granddaughters, Kimberly Wolf of Austin, Texas, and Nora Wolf of Kansas City, Missouri; great-grandson, Connor Jackson Bloom; sisters-in-law, Mary Lou Bartman MacConnel of Dyer and Carol (Chuck) Peglow of Minocqua, Wisconsin; brother-in-law, Ken (Donna) Lorenz of Valparaiso; and nieces and nephews, Fred, Beth, Lynn, Brian, and Scott Lorenz, Ken, Fritz, Ruth, Peg, and Beth Bartman, James (Jenny) Peglow and Chip (Anne) Peglow. He was also preceded in death by a brother, Gordon Bartman; nieces, Diane and Kathy Bartman; and nephew, Jake Peglow. Funeral services will be Saturday, January 27, 2018, at 11 a.m. at Young Family Funeral Home, Kendallville Chapel, 222 South State Street, Kendallville with Rev. Mike Wakeland, chaplain at Lutheran Life Villages officiating. Burial will be in Lake View Cemetery, Kendallville. Honor guard services will be provided by the Veterans Honor Guard and the U.S. Marine Corps. Calling is Friday, January 26, 2018, from 5 to 8 p.m. at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to Assistance Dog for Achieving Independence (which is how Karen received her dog, Nikki), 5605 Monroe Street, Sylvania, Ohio, 43560 or to the Multiple Sclerosis Society, Indiana Chapter, 3500 DePauw Blvd., Suite 1040, Indianapolis, Indiana, 46268.
Young Funeral Home online obit (accessed January 22, 2018)

Wilma H. Baumbauer
September 24, 1923 - June 24, 2018
Wilma H. Baumbauer, 94, Berne, former Geneva resident passed away, June 24, 2018 at Swiss Village where she was a resident. She was born on September 24, 1923 to William and Louise Hoscheit Ruttan. She married Claude Baumbauer. Wilma was an active member of the First Missionary Church. She and her husband operated the Den, an ice cream store in Berne and later they owned the Lodge a bait store on Rainbow Lake, Geneva. Her interest included; sewing, embroidering, reading and gardening. Survivors include sons; William Bill" (Carol) Baumbauer of Liberty, IN, Jon Baumbauer of Geneva and grandchildren (Kalin and Easton). Preceding in death is her husband and grandson, and Christopher Baumbauer. There is no visitation or services. The family will plan a graveside service later at the Falls Cemetery in Wabash, IN. Preferred memorials are to Swiss Village Samaritan Fund. Arrangement by Yager-Kirchhofer Funeral Home, Berne.
https://www.meaningfulfunerals.net/obituary/robert-steury?fh_id=11113 (accessed 10/23/2018)

Munson Baughman's Death Takes Place at 59 Years
Was Framer Living Northeast of Auburn; Widow and Four Children Survive
The funeral of the late Munson Baughman, who resided four and a half miles northeast of Auburn, was held Tuesday afternoon at the Dilgard Bros. funeral home in Auburn. The Rev. Joseph Ferguson of east of Auburn, officiated and burial was made in Woodlawn. Mr. Baughman died Sunday morning at 1:50 o'clock from arterio sclerosis after a year's illness. He was born May 8, 1877, in the neighborhood in which he died and was married Feb. 28, 1904, to Ethel Mae Loutzenheiser. Surviving besides the widow are four children, Osacar Baughman and Mrs. R. Gordon Noffsinger of Auburn, Dorothy Baughman, at home, and Eugene Baughman of St. Joe; three brothers, Edward of Grant township, Cyrus of Auburn, and Judd, in California; two sisters, Mrs. Lulu Pifer of Moore, Wilmington township, and Mrs. Blanche Frank of St. Joe; and eight grandchildren
Garrett Clipper (IN); September 3, 1936
Contributed by Scott Bowmar

Larry L. Beber, age 79, of Auburn passed away on Tuesday, January 30, 2018 at his Auburn home. He was born in Auburn on March 3, 1938 to DeMar and Zelma (Treesh) Beber. Mr. Beber honorably served his country in the United States Air Force during Vietnam. He married Barbara Ann Wilson at the St. Mark's Lutheran Church in Auburn on June 16, 1961. She resides in Auburn. Larry owned and operated Hamilton TV Sales & Service in Hamilton for several years. He was then a co-owner of Century Labs Corporation in Fort Wayne until he retired in 2008. He was a member of the Garrett American Legion, the Auburn Moose Lodge and the Hamilton Lions Club. Larry was an avid golfer and was a member of the Cedar Creek Country Club in Leo. He was also a huge Chicago Bears fan. Survivors Include: His wife; Barb Beber of Auburn. Son; Graeg Beber (Diane Fogle) of Auburn. 2 grandchildren; Dustin Beber and Dalton Beber. Great granddaughter; Claire Fraley. Sister; Sandra "Sue" Ryan of Auburn. Uncle; Bob Treesh of Chicago. He was preceded in death by his parents and 1 son; Terry Lee Beber. Terry passed away on September 5, 2017. A funeral service will be held on Friday, February 2, 2018 at 2:00 PM at the Feller and Clark Funeral Home, 1860 South Center Street in Auburn. Visitation will be held two hours prior to the service from 12:00 to 2:00 PM on Friday at the funeral home. Officiating the funeral service will be the Rev. Dr. Marcus Carlson with St. Mark's Lutheran Church in Auburn. Memorial donations may be directed to Make-A-Wish® America Gift Processing, 4742 North 24th Street, Suite 400, Phoenix, Arizona 85016.
Feller & Clark Funeral Home online obit (accessed January 30, 2018)

Capt. Arthur M. Beery, about 60, native of Decatur, is dead in San Diego, where services and burial were held this afternoon. He is survived by his wife; his mother, Mrs. Dan W. Beery of Arcadia, Calif.; his sister, Mrs. J. O. Sellemeyer, and a brother, Lloyd D. Beery. The wife of Lloyd D. Beery is the former Miss Elizabeth Dailey of Bluffton, whose parents were Dr. and Mrs. Lew Dailey.
Fort Wayne Journal Gazette, Allen County, Indiana; Thursday, August 7, 1975
Contributed by Karin King

Barbara Ellen Belote, 92, went to meet her Lord on the morning of January 20, 2018. She was born on June 3, 1925 in Desloge, MO, to Hubert and Nora Doud. Barbara was a long-time faithful member of Harvester Missionary Church where she served as Missions Board Chairman for many years. She enjoyed arranging flowers making sure the church was decorated appropriately for each season. Barbara stated that her love for her church reflects the fact that she has been "granted a profound experience of God's grace. I was filled with a joy unspeakable and full of glory. It is with me daily." She was an Embassy & Civic Theatre Volunteer, a member of the FW Genealogical Society, and the D.A.R. Barbara published a book on her family's genealogy. She enjoyed traveling to Europe and the Holy Lands. Surviving are her children; Robert (Linda) Johnson, Rev. Ron (Lyn) Johnson, Cheryl (Paul) Hines, Darlene Ford, Alan (Diana) Richard, Joyce (Ed) Kolberg, and Nyletta (Jerry) Hetrick; nephew, Royce Doud; 17 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren, and 3 great-great grandchildren, although she thought they were all pretty great. She was preceded in death by her siblings, Merlin, Norman and Gloria. A celebration of life service will take place at 11am Wednesday, January 24, 2018 at Harvester Missionary Church, 3331 Harvester Ave., Ft Wayne, IN 46803, with calling 1 hour prior. Visitation will take place from 2-4pm and 6-8pm on Tuesday, January 23, 2018 at D.O. McComb and Sons Maplewood Park Chapel, 4017 Maplecrest Rd., Ft Wayne, IN 46815. Burial will be in Lindenwood Cemetery, Ft Wayne, IN. Memorial contributions may be made to Harvester Church.
D.O. McComb & Sons Funeral Home online obit (accessed January 22, 2018)

Ruth W. Bergman, 88, of Van Buren, IN, passed away at 11:10 AM on Sunday, January 21, 2018 at Marion General Hospital in Marion, IN. She was born on Wednesday, July 03, 1929, in Williams, OK. She married Robert Lee Bergman on Thursday, April 29, 1948 in Santa Paula, California. Mrs. Bergman was a homemaker. She was also a secretary at Gripco for Harrison Partridge. She was a member of the Alethia Chapter #206 Order of Eastern Star. She was a graduate of Fillmore High School in Fillmore, California in Ventura County. She had been a resident of Van Buren for the past 13 years and was a former resident of Montpelier. Loving Survivors include: sons - Mike Bergman, Montpelier, IN and Ron Bergman, Montpelier, IN; daughter - Judy (husband, Monty) Quick, Van Buren, IN; sister - Flossie Simpson, Meridian, ID; grandchildren - Joey Bergman, Summitville, IN, Jason Bergman, Anderson, IN, Michael Bergman, Anderson, IN, Jennifer Bergman, Montpelier, IN, Jesse Bergman, Poneto, IN, Monica Quick, Van Buren, IN and Robert Quick, Marion, IN and 19 great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her: parents- Grady and Wrenetta (Hobbs) Butler, 1st husband- Robert Lee Bergman and 2nd husband- Guy Hayes; Father - Butler. Family and friends may gather to share and remember at Walker & Glancy Funeral Home 109 W Windsor St. Montpelier, IN on Thursday, January 25, 2018 from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM. A service to celebrate Ruth's life will be at Walker & Glancy Funeral Home at 2:00 PM on Thursday, January 25, 2018 with Pastor Jeremy Cowan officiating. Interment will follow in Brookside Memorial Park in Montpelier. Arrangements are being handled by Walker & Glancy Funeral Home in Montpelier.
Walker & Glancy Funeral Home online obit (accessed January 22, 2018)

Delores A. Blumenhorst, 64, of Hartford City, IN, passed away at 3:05 PM on Thursday, January 25, 2018 at Bridgewater Centre in Hartford City, IN. She was born on Saturday, September 12, 1953, in Tazewell, TN. She married James Allen Blumenhorst on Friday, July 27, 1973 in Montpelier, IN. Delores was a graduate of Eastbrook High School. She attended the Hartford City Church of the Nazarene. She formerly worked at Heritage Pointe, Peyton's Northern, and Dacra Glass. Delores enjoyed camping, golf cart riding, going to rummage sales, and flea marketing. Loving Survivors Include: Father - Donald B. Harper, Montpelier, IN, Husband - James Allen Blumenhorst, Hartford City, IN, Sons - Kevin Leigh Blumenhorst, Hartford City, IN, Kris Allen (companion- Becky) Blumenhorst, Hartford City, IN, Brothers - Dwight Harper, Modoc, IN, James Bartley Harper, Little Rock, AR, 5 Grandchildren, and 1 Great Grandchild. She was preceded in death by her Mother - Pauline R. (Ford) Harper. Family and friends may gather to share and remember at Walker & Glancy Funeral Home 109 W Windsor St Montpelier on Monday, January 29, 2018 from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM. A service to celebrate her life will be at Walker & Glancy Funeral Home at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, January 30, 2018 with Pastor Steve High officiating. Interment will follow in the Marion National Cemetery in Marion. Preferred memorials: Hartford City Food Pantry West Washington Street Hartford City IN 47348. Arrangements are being handled by Walker & Glancy Funeral Home in Montpelier.
Walker & Glancy Funeral Home online obit (accessed January 26, 2018)

Donald (BoBo) Bobilya, 84, of Fort Wayne and LaGrange, Indiana passed away on Tuesday, January 9, 2018. Born August 19, 1933, he was the son of Louis and Linda Bobilya. He grew up in Fort Wayne and attended North Side High School. He married his beloved wife Velma, of Delphos, Ohio, in 1952. BoBo was born to sell. He began his career as a Fuller Brush salesman. He went on to become the top salesman at Allen County Motors for 15 years, before opening Bobilya Ford Lincoln Mercury, Inc. in LaGrange, with Velma. He operated the successful dealership for 29 years. When he wasn't working hard, he loved summers at Coldwater Lake. He also loved to travel. Some of his favorite places were Siesta Key Beach, Las Vegas, Hawaii, and wherever a cruise ship might take him. He enjoyed ice cream, happy hours, and socializing. He had a full and happy life always surrounded by loving family and friends. He was a friend to all, especially to those in need. He was an active member of St. Joseph Catholic Church in LaGrange. He served as President of the LaGrange Rotary Club, was a member of the Auto Dealer Association of Indiana, National Auto Dealers Association, Masonic Lodge, and The Shriners. He is survived by his four children, David (Annie) Bobilya of Fort Wayne; Dean (Lori Eby Hunt) Bobilya of Coldwater, MI; Dennis Bobilya of Portsmouth, NH; Sandra (Tom) Sorgani of Buffalo Grove, IL; sister, Sally Mondhank of Fort Wayne; 10 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren. He was proceeded in death by his wife of 40 years, Velma; brothers, Sandy and Jimmy; sisters Roselyn Korn, Nancy Doehrmann and Mary Lou Johnson; and loving companion, Mary Watson. Funeral service at 11:30 am Saturday, January 13, 2018 at The Chapel, 2505 West Hamilton Road South, Fort Wayne, with visitation from 9:30-11:30. Private burial in Greenwood Cemetery, LaGrange, IN. In lieu of flowers, preferred memorials to Turnstone Center for Children & Adults with Disabilities or LaGrange Clothes and Food Basket.
D.O. McComb & Sons Funeral Home online obit (accessed January 10, 2018)

Michael R. "Mike" Bohnke, 67, of Ft. Wayne, IN passed away Saturday, January 13, 2018 at Visiting Nurse & Hospice Home in Fort Wayne. He was born on Saturday, March 25, 1950 in Ft. Wayne, IN the son of Richard Bohnke and the late Rhea (West) Bohnke. In 1968 Mike graduated from Concordia Lutheran High School then continued his education by graduating from Purdue University in 1972 with a BS in Biology. In 1979, Mike graduated from IPFW with an Associate Degree in Nursing (ASN). He was a member of Trinity English Lutheran Church in Ft. Wayne and also the Purdue Alumni Association. Mike was an avid fan of the University of St. Francis. Mike also enjoyed volunteering with the Concordia Lutheran High School Drama Department constructing the sets. In 1966 Mike started with Kerns Toyland in Ft. Wayne and continued there until 1976. It was at Kerns that he met Sara "Sally" Bugert. They were united in marriage on March 29, 1970 in the chapel at Concordia Lutheran High School in Ft. Wayne. Following his employment at Kerns, Mike became a registered nurse. He worked for St. Joseph Hospital in Ft. Wayne for 40 years, retiring on January 4, 2017. During his time at St. Joe, he worked in psychiatric nursing and supervised many departments culminating in being the house supervisor for 20 years. While working at St. Joe, he also taught clinical nursing for the IPFW Nursing Program. Mike and Sally enjoyed many backpacking trips in many National Parks. Survivors include his wife, Sara "Sally" Bohnke of Ft. Wayne, IN; daughter, Laura (Michael Dickman) Bohnke of Ft. Wayne, IN; father, Richard Bohnke of Monroeville, IN; sister, Michele (William) Hosman of Evansville, IN; sister, Peggy (Gary) Turner of Searcy, AR; and sister, Patty (Ron) Clark of Martinsville, IN. Mike is preceded in death by one brother, Patrick Bohnke. Funeral services will be held at 4:00p.m. Friday, January 19, 2018 at Trinity English Lutheran Church, 450 W. Washington Street, Ft. Wayne with Rev. Dr. Gary Erdos and Rev. Dr. Kathleen Haller officiating. Friends will be received from 4-8 p.m., Thursday, January 18 in the Trinity English Lutheran Church - Ft. Wayne and one hour prior to services Friday also at the church. Preferred memorials are to Trinity English Lutheran Church - Ft. Wayne.
Zwick & Jahn Funeral Home online obit (accessed January 14, 2018)

Harlen Bolen, age 89, of Waterloo passed away on Tuesday, January 9, 2018 at his Waterloo home. Harlen was born in Garrett, Kentucky on September 3, 1928 to Ellis and Cosby (Hicks) Bolen. He married Julia Joan Stuller on June 15, 1946 in Auburn. She preceded him in death March 12, 2006. Harlen first worked for the B & O Railroad for 5 years. He then worked for the Auburn Foundry for 20 years and lastly he worked for the Newman Foundry in Kendallville retiring in 1993. He was a member of the Waterloo Freewill Baptist Church. He loved hunting and fishing. He got the most enjoyment out of planting and taking care of the large garden that he had every year. Survivors Include: Son and daughter-in-law; John and Kathy Bolen of Stroh. Son and daughter-in-law; James and Lori Bolen of Waterloo. Daughter and son-in-law; Christine and Jim Goodman of Waterloo. Daughter and son-in-law; Sandy and Neil Applegate of Waterloo. Daughter and son-in-law; Janet and Rick Winkles of Gosport, Indiana. 16 grandchildren, 13 great grandchildren and 9 great great grandchildren. Brother and sister-in-law; Dixie and Ellen Bolen of Garrett. Brother; Larry Bolen of Garrett. Brother and sister-in-law; Ronnie and Oma Bolen of Stroh. Brother and sister-in-law; Roger and Tiny Bolen of Garrett, Kentucky. Sister; Roseanna Conley of Stroh. Sister and brother-in-law; Linda and Clark Wireman of Mooresville, Kentucky. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Julia and 2 brothers; Orville Bolen and Edward Bolen. A funeral service will be held on Saturday, January 13, 2018 at 3:00 PM at the Freewill Baptist Church, 2833 County Road 27 in Waterloo. Visitation will be held 2 hours prior to the funeral service from 1:00 to 3:00 PM at the church. Officiating the memorial service will be Rev. Ron Stambaugh of the Freewill Baptist Church. Memorial donations may be directed towards the Freewill Baptist Church, 2833 County Road 27, Waterloo, Indiana 46793.
Feller & Clark Funeral Home online obit (accessed January 10, 2018)

C. William "Bill" Bonecutter passed away Monday, January 15, 2018, at Parkview Regional Medical Center Fort Wayne IN. He was born February 5, 1946, in Steuben County to Thomas William and Lois (Norrick) Bonecutter. He attended Hamilton High School. He began his career by working with his father at County Line Cheese in Auburn. He later worked for the Auburn Foundry where he made many great friends. Bill married Cathy Squier on April 5, 1985, in Waterloo. Bill is survived by his mother, Lois, of Butler; a son, Michael Bonecutter, of Garrett; a daughter, Kim (Kenny) Anderson, of Hudson; and a stepdaughter, Mandy (Jon) Young, of Waterloo. He was blessed with six grandchildren, Misty (Jeremy) Oakley, Megan Kobiela, Austin Bonecutter, Kristen Tittle, and Aaron and Ethan Young;and 7 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by a sister, Jean (Donnie) Chriswell, a brother Robert Bonecutter, and a sister Lois Fett. Also surviving are many nieces, nephews and treasured friends, both human and K-9. Bill was preceded in death by his wife, Cathy, in 1991. He remained a treasured part of the Squier family after her passing. He was also preceded in death by his father, William, and a granddaughter, Nora Young. Services will be 1 p.m. Friday at Feller and Clark Funeral Home, 875 S. Wayne St., Waterloo, with the Rev. Ralph Diehl officiating. Burial will take place at Sedan Cemetery in rural Corunna. Visitation will be from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday prior to the service at the funeral home. Memorials may be directed to the DeKalb County Humane Shelter or Palliative Care through Parkview Regional Medical Center in Fort Wayne.
Feller & Clark Funeral Home online obit (accessed January 16, 2018)

Sergeant 1st Class Mark A. Boner, age 43, passed away Saturday January 6th, 2018 at Fort Hood, Texas. He was born in Fort Wayne In. and was the son of Robert Boner and the late Patricia Habegger Boner. After graduating from Elmhurst High school in 1993 he served in the US army before joining the Indiana National Guard's 38th Sustainment Brigade based in Kokomo where he was a Battalion Supply Sergeant. Mark loved serving his country. He served tours in Iraq and Kuwait in 2005 and 2009 where he received a combat action badge, Iraq Campaign Medal, Meritorious Service Medal and two Army Commendation Medals. He was preparing for his third tour at the time of his passing. When not serving his country, Mark enjoyed taking his youngest daughter out for father daughter date night. He enjoyed spending time at the lake with family and friends and was an avid Komet Hockey and Notre Dame fan Surviving are his father, Robert Boner of Fort Wayne; daughters, Gabi Boner of Galatia, IL; Cassie Boner of Fort Wayne; grandson, Zander Boner; siblings, Tamara (Mark) Bohne of Fort Wayne, (Christine (Kit) Morton of Statesville, NC, and Steven (Melissa) Boner of Fort Wayne. Service is 11:00 am, Monday, January 15, 2018 at D.O. McComb & Sons Foster Park Funeral Home, 6301 Fairfield Avenue with calling one hour prior. Calling at the funeral home Sunday, January 14, 2018, 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm & 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm. Burial with full military honors in Greenlawn Memorial Park, Fort Wayne, Indiana. Memorials may be made to: Komets Kare Package or Shepherd's House, 519 Tennessee Ave. Fort Wayne, IN 46805.
D.O. McComb & Sons Funeral Home online obit (accessed January 10, 2018)

Mark J. Bontrager
September 1, 1930 -- November 3, 2017
Mark J. Bontrager, 87, of Shipshewana, died at 1:17 pm on Friday, November 3 at the Goshen Hospital. He was born on September 1, 1930 in Shipshewana, to Earley Clay and Delcie (Mishler) Bontrager. On September 27, 1953 in Shore Mennonite Church he married Clara Mishler; she survives. Survivors in addition to his wife are daughter, Diane (Todd) Woodworth of Goshen; son, John Mark Bontrager of Shipshewana; three grandchildren, Jesse Bontrager (fiancée, Ariane Bergen) Woodworth of Denver, CO, Luke (Brittany) Bontrager Woodworth and Clara Elizabeth Bontrager Woodworth both of Goshen. He was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters, Hilda Haarer and Glenola Leinbach; and a brother, Marion Bontrager. Mark was a farmer, livestock hauler and a bus driver. He was a member of Shore Mennonite Church, where he served as a song leader. He was also a member of the Crusaders Quartet and served on the REMC Board for 49 years. Visitation will be from 2:00 - 8:00 pm on Monday, November 6 and one hour prior to the funeral service at 11:00 am on Tuesday, November 7 at Shore Mennonite Church, 7235 W 100 N Shipshewana. Services will be conducted by Pastor Carl Horner. Burial will be in Bontrager Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to the Shipshewana Ministerial Association.
Miller-Stewart Funeral Home online obit (accessed November 4, 2017)

South Bend - Richard Boutel of Mishawaka was killed and Samuel Quick and Frederick Boutel, boys, were seriously hurt when their automobile was struck by a Grand Trunk Western passenger train at Granger. The party was en route to Diamond lake, near Cassopolis, Mich.
Waveland Independent, Montgomery County, IN; May 22, 1914
Contributed by Karen Zach

Cleta M. Bowlin, 97, passed away Tuesday, January 23, 2018 at The Towne House Retirement Center where she had been living in the independent housing for many years. Born in Appleton City, MO, Cleta was the daughter of the late Robert and Essie Bellomy. Cleta was a loving wife, wonderful mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, and a devoted friend. She married her husband Richard on February 25, 1940, and had 72 years of marriage together until his passing in 2012. She was a former member of the Fort Wayne Country Club and a member of the Daughters of the Nile. Cleta and Richard owned Allen County Motors for 47 years until their retirement in 1997. Cleta spent her Thursdays at The Corner House Beauty Salon, where she was a well-known client and enjoyed socializing with their staff and her many friends. In her younger years, she would finish up her Thursdays with lunch with friends and bowling at Northcrest Lanes. She enjoyed her summers at Lake Wawasee while spending time with her family. She loved her family and cherished all her grandchildren and her great-granddaughter. Surviving are her children, Rex (Anita) Bowlin, Debbie (Tom) Kimbrough, Diane Bowlin, Dawn (John) Kleber all of Fort Wayne; grandchildren, Christine (Dan) Mounsey, Courtney Bowlin, Adam Kimbrough, Stefanie Kimbrough, Jennifer Bowlin, Brittany and Kimberly Kleber; and great-granddaughter, June Marie. Cleta was preceded in death by her siblings, Viola Plymouth, Fannie Quick, and Lloyd Bellomy. Service for Cleta will be for the family and Towne House Residence at 2:30 pm, Sunday, January 28, 2018 at Towne House Retirement Community Chapel, 2209 St. Joe Center Road with calling from 1:00 pm until the service, Rev. Douglas Vogel officiating. Entombment in Covington Memorial Gardens, Fort Wayne, Indiana. Memorials may be made to the Towne House Chapel or Turnstone Center.
D.O. McComb & Sons Funeral Home online obit (accessed January 25, 2018)

Lafayette - Jacob Bowman, 80 years old, owner of a large tract of land in Carroll County, was struck by a passenger train on the Wabash railroad at Rockfield, east of here, suffering injuries which caused his death five minutes after the accident. He was walking between the tracks and on account of deafness did not hear the approaching train. He was buried 100 feet.
Waveland Independent, Montgomery County, IN; Dec. 18, 1914
Contributed by Karen Zach

Garrett - Gerald J. Bowmar, 63, 605 S. Second St., died Saturday at 8:30 p.m. in DeKalb Memorial Hospital. He was formerly an engineer on the B&O Railroad, retiring in 1969. Mr. Bowmar was a lifelong resident of Garrett, where he was born Sept. 20, 1913 to Charles E & Emma (Hiigli) Bowmar. His mother survives in Fort Wayne. He was married Dec. 17, 1940, in Avilla to Helen L. Hess, who survives. Also surviving are a son, Gerald (Jerry), of Garrett; two brothers, Charles W. and Lawrence, both of Garrett, and two sisters, Mrs. James Habig, Auburn; and Mrs. Merle Musselman, LaPorte. His funeral will be Tuesday at 10:30 a.m. in McKee Funeral Home. Rev. Anthony Smith, pastor of the Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church, will officiate. Burial will be Christian Union Cemetery. Friends may call at the funeral home after 1 p.m. todday. Memorials to the Cancer Society are preferred.
Evening Star (IN); November 29, 1976
Contributed by Scott Bowmar

Mrs. Mary Peters Bowmar, wife of John Bowmar of Haskells, died at the Christian hospital, Valparaiso, at 9;20 p.m. Friday of cancer of the stomach. She was born at LaPorte on June 11, 1867. Death came after she had been a patient sufferer with a complication of diseases for the past year. Mrs. Bowmar was a member of the Presbyterian church, Rebecca lodge and the Relief corps of Union Mills. She was the mother of four children. They are Mrs. Fred J. Luebker of LaPorte, Mrs. William Jungjohan of Valparaiso, Mrs. Otto Severin of Wellsboro and William W. Wise of LaPorte. Two sisters and one brother survive. They are Mrs. Henry Wise and Mrs. Harry B. Darling of LaPorte and Charles Peters of South Bend. The deceased woman is also survived by two nephews, Frank Wise of Kansas City, Mo., and Burr N. Darling of Jackson, Miss., and one niece, Miss Cora Wise of LaPorte. Funeral services will be held at 2 o'clock tomorrow afternoon at the Presbyterian church in Union Mills. The Rev. Mr. Warden of Valparaiso will officiate. Burial will be in the Union Mills cemetery. The Rebecca lodge will have charge of the services at the grave.
LaPorte Times (IN); June 1, 1925
Contributed by Scott Bowmar

James L. Breniser
April 8, 1929 -- December 9, 2017
James L. Breniser, 88, of Goshen, formerly of Middlebury, died at 11:15 am, on Saturday, December 9, at Courtyard of Goshen. He was born on April 8, 1929, in LaGrange County, to Lester and Elnora (Miller) Breniser. On February 18, 1950 in Goshen he married B. Jean Shoemaker; she died November 22, 2015. Surviving are two daughters, Susan (Mike) Myers of Beaver Island, MI, Kimberly Breniser of Goshen; two sons, James L. (Kay Hartline Breniser) Breinser, II of Niles, MI., Timothy (Joyce) Breniser of Tampa, FL; 16 grandchildren, 28 great grandchildren; two sisters, Gloria Martin of Elkhart, Kay Reynolds of Davison, MI; two brothers, Ronald (Roberta) Breniser of Elkhart, Jack (Betty) Breniser. He was preceded in death by his wife, two daughters, Shelby Burkett and Lizette Myers, parents, two sisters, Shirley Lantz and Cynthia Breniser. Jim had been a member of New Paris Missionary Church, Liberty Community Church and served as a Pastor for 23 years. He was an US Army Veteran and a brick layer for 40 years. Visitation will be from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm, followed by a 1:00 PM funeral service all on Wednesday, December 13, at Miller-Stewart Funeral Home, 1003 South Main Street Middlebury. Services will be conducted by Pastors Terry Powell and David Boys. Burial will be in Grace Lawn Cemetery, Middlebury. Memorials may be given to Liberty Community Church.
Miller/Stewart Funeral Home online obit (accessed December 11, 2017)

Holly Janelle Brown, 51, passed away Friday, January 12, 2017, at her home in Auburn. Holly was born July 21, 1966, in Auburn to Clyde and LaVina Jeanette (Esterline) Cox. She married Daniel Nathan Brown on December 1, 1984, at Norris Chapel United Methodist Church in Auburn. Holly worked for Hermac Inc. in Auburn for 10 years, retiring in 2017. Surviving are her husband, Daniel Nathan Brown of Auburn; father and step-mother, Clyde and Helen Cox of Bradenton, Florida; son, Daniel Nathan (Breanna Carpenter) Brown Jr. of Auburn; granddaughter, Paisleigh Janey Brown of Auburn; and a brother, Jonathon Lee Cox of Auburn. She was preceded in death by her mother, LaVina Jeanette Cox; and three brothers, Jeremy Cox, Jeffery Cox and Joseph Cox. A memorial service will take place at 11 a.m. Friday at Feller and Clark Funeral Home, 1860 Center St., Auburn. Burial will take place in Cedar Creek Cemetery in rural Auburn. The family will receive friends from 10-11 a.m. Friday prior to the service at the funeral home. Memorials may be directed to Feller and Clark Funeral Home to help with expenses.
Feller & Clark Funeral Home online obit (accessed January 14, 2018)

KATHERINE H. BROWN
July 3, 1956 - January 29, 2018
Katherine Marie Hosler Brown passed away unexpectedly this past weekend. She was 61. Born on July 3, 1956, in Indianapolis, Indiana, she was the daughter of Marie "Mary Ann" Wickes and Peter Hosler. Katherine will be remembered as a kind and generous woman, who lived a life devoted to helping others. She pursed that passion as her career. She was a graduate of Penn State and then went on to earn her Master's Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Virginia Tech. Katherine worked as a Child and Adolescent Team Leader at Oaklawn in Goshen, and she was previously employed as a Mental Health Professional at Correct Care Solutions in Elkhart. Katherine was a dedicated member of Pathway's Christian Church. She also enjoyed many hobbies such as quilting, cooking, gardening, and bicycling. While Katherine had many interests, she delighted most in her family. Left behind to cherish her memory is her son, Robert (Julie) Billingham IV, Denver, CO; her daughter, Victoria Billingham and her husband Robert Fincher, Las Vegas, NV; and her father, Peter (Vera) Hosler, Wallingford, PA. Also surviving: A brother Gregory (Josie) Hosler, Singapore; sisters: Pamela Hosler, St. Louis, MO; Theresa Roulic , Billerica, MA; Lorraine (Jason) Venner, Redwood City, CA; a step-daughter, Deanna (Christopher) Rodecki, Elkhart, IN; grandsons: Andrew Rodecki, Evan Rodecki, and William Fincher; nephews: Peter Hosler and Michael Roulic; and nieces: Joyce Hosler and Stephanie Roulic. She was predeceased by her mother and a husband of 23 years, Walter D. Bennett. Memorial Services will be held on Saturday, February 3 at Pathway Church, 13805 US 20, Middlebury, Indiana, 46540; with Pastor Scott Miller officiating. Visitation 11am - 1pm. Funeral at 1pm. Memorial contributions can be made to The Oaklawn Foundation or NAMI, The National Alliance on Mental Illness.
Miller-Stewart Funeral Home online obit (accessed January 31, 2018)

Chris Buck
November 6, 1973 -- November 22, 2017
Chris Buck, 44, of Bristol, passed away at 8:40 am on Wednesday, November 22, at his residence. He had fought a hard battle against AML since August 7th, 2017. He was born on November 6, 1973 in Orange County, CA, to Michael and Paula (Kitson) Stopper. On June 27, 1998 in Middlebury he married Marcey McCraner, she survives. Survivors in addition to his wife are a daughter, Layla Buck; two sons, Boden and Wyland Buck all at home; his mother, Paula Bollman of Bristol; two brothers, Dave (Wanda) Buck of Middlebury and Jeff Buck of Goshen. He was preceded in death by his father. Chris was currently working for Northern Lakes Overhead Door in Topeka. He was a Harley Davidson and Chevy enthusiast, owning a '56 Chevy and he enjoyed working on cars. He was very active in his children's lives, attending and often coaching many of their sporting events. He was always working on home projects and liked spending time outdoors. He was a 1992 graduate of Northridge High School and attended Manchester University, where he wrestled for two years. Visitation will be from 1:00 - 7:00 pm on Sunday, November 26, 2017 at Miller-Stewart Funeral Home, 1003 South Main Street Middlebury. Funeral services will be at 11:00 am on Monday, November 27, at St. Paul's Lutheran Church, Middlebury. Services will be conducted by Pastor Randy Schroeder. Memorials may be given to the funeral home to assist with expenses.
Miller-Stewart Funeral Home online obit (accessed November 22, 2017)

Dana, Ind.- July 21 - Richard Byland, 40 years old, was instantly killed Friday afternoon when struck by lightning during a storm here. Mr. Byland in company with Glen Jackson and another man, was working on Joe Jackson's farm about two and one half miles east of Dana. The team, which Mr. Byland was driving was injured. Young Jackson was stunned for a few minutes but the third man was uninjured.
Terre Haute Daily Tribune (IN); 22 July 1917, p. 3
Contributed by Karen Zach

Wabash - JJ Cart, 75, was killed and his wife was seriously injured when they were struck by an Erie train at Servia.
Waveland Independent, Montgomery County, IN; Dec. 18, 1914
Contributed by Karen Zach

Lafayette - A raft on which Joseph Conway, Bert Harriman and Joseph Million were riding turned over in a gravel pit near New Richmond and Conway was drowned in 10' of water. Million and Harriman clung to the raft and succeeded in reaching the bank. Conway was 15 years old and his father is a farmer.
Waveland Independent, Montgomery County, IN; May 22, 1914
Contributed by Karen Zach

An explosion of natural gas in a room at the Hotel Wayne, Peru, fatally burned Charles Coyne. He lit a match and the gas let go.
Waveland Independent, Montgomery County, IN; 5/6/1904
Contributed by Karen Zach

Thomas Craken, well-to-do and formerly an officer in the Union Army, died at Mishawaka as a result of his refusal to accept household remedies. He had pneumonia and was a Christian Scientist and was being treated by a woman healer from the latter's home in Toledo.
Waveland Independent, Montgomery County, IN; 5/6/1904
Contributed by Karen Zach

John R. Daley, night editor of the Chicago Tribune during the civil war, editor of the Commercial Letter of Liverpool and later commercial editor of the Chicago Journal, died at Elkhart, age 81.
Waveland Independent, Montgomery County, IN; 5/6/1904
Contributed by Karen Zach

Helen M. Daughtry, 60 Fort Wayne, a native of Geneva, died at 11:50 a.m. Tuesday in Lutheran Hospital. She lived most of her life in Fort Wayne and had been employed by Sears Store for 11 years. She was a member of the First Baptist Church. Surviving are a son, James E. Fort Wayne; two daughters, Mrs. Wilbur Tolliver, Holland, Mich., and Mrs. Jack Carter, Fort Wayne; a sister, Mrs. Rose Young, Fort Wayne, and a brother, Paul Liddy, Fort Wayne. Funeral services will be held at 1:30 p.m. Friday in Mungovan & Sons South Chapel with burial in Greenlawn Memorial Park. Friends may call at the Fort Wayne funeral chapel from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. today.
Decatur Daily Democrat, Adams County, Indiana; Thursday, July 24, 1975
Contributed by Janice Vasilovski

James K. Dearing, 5, Fort Wayne, grandson of Rev. and Mrs. James O. Dearing, Decatur, died at 10:30 a.m. Friday in Parkview Memorial Hospital. The lad was struck by a car on Reed Road just south of Fairlawn Pass about 8:30 p.m. Thursday. He is survived by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. James L. Dearing; a sister, Juliet, at home; his paternal grandparents, Rev. and Mrs. James O. Dearing, Decatur; and his maternal grandmother, Mrs. Phyllis Bates, Columbia City. Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Monday at the D.O. McComb & Sons Lakeside Park Chapel with burial in Covington Memorial Gardens. Friends may call at the funeral home from 2 to 5 and 7 to 9 p.m. Sunday. Preferred memorial are to the Fort Wayne Children's Zoo.
Decatur Daily Democrat, Adams County, Indiana; Saturday, August 2, 1975
Contributed by Janice Vasilovski

Funeral services for Mrs. Pearl C. Decker, 81, Fort Wayne, a native of Adams County, will be held at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday in Chalfant-Perry Klaehn Funeral Home. She died at 2:15 p.m. Sunday in Lutheran Hospital. She had resided in the Fort Wayne vicinity most of her life. Surviving are her husband, Donald D.; a daughter, Mrs. Evelyn Brumm; a son, Ralph G., and two sisters, Mrs. Dora Gerke and Mrs. Esther Bennett, all of Fort Wayne. Friends may call from 2 to 5 and 7 to 9 p.m. today at the funeral home. Burial will be in Lindenwood Cemetery.
Decatur Daily Democrat, Adams County, Indiana; Tuesday, Aug. 5, 1975
Contributed by Janice Vasilovski

Mary Eugenie Habig, 99, died [2 lines completely blurred] tired housewife and had lived in the Auburn area for over 60 years. She was born Dec. 24, 1896 to Winfield Scott and Nancy (Bell) Berry. In 1919 she married Albert Paul Habig, who preceded her in death on June 10, 1953. She also was preceded in death by 12 brothers and sisters. Surviving are one son, James, of Auburn; three grandsons, James Dean Habig, of Garrett, Dr. Terry Lee Habig, of New Orleans, La., and Albert Todd Habig, of Indianapolis; two great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild. She was a member of Meese Chapel United Methodist Church in rural Auburn and the DeKalb County Chorus. Funeral services will be held Saturday at 10 a.m. in Dilgard, Cline and Southern Funeral Home, Auburn, with the Rev. J. Wilbur Yates of the Auburn First United Methodist Church officiating. Friends may call at the funeral home from 7-9 Friday. Burial will be in Woodlawn Cemetery, Auburn.
Evening Star (IN); July 16, 1986
Contributed by Scott Bowmar

Gilbert Harton, age 23, an inmate of the State Penal Farm died at the Farm Monday morning after an illness of 9 days of pneumonia. He was sent to the Farm from Lake County and is a Mexican. He was brought to the McCurry Funeral Home
Greencastle Herald, Putnam County, IN; 5 April 1928
Contributed by Karen Zach

Funeral services for Arthur D. Hoeppner, 71, Fort Wayne, a native of Preble, were held at 1 p.m. today in D.O. McComb & Sons Lakeside Park Funeral Home. He died at 1:10 p.m. Sunday in his residence. He retired in 1968 from the old Pennsylvania Railroad, where he had 49 years of service. Surviving are his wife, Edna A.; three sons, Fred, Bluffton, Carl, Detroit, and Jack Sequin, Wash.; and three sisters, Mrs. Loretta Mueller, Mrs. Hilda Stoner and Mrs. Mildred Marquardt, all of Fort Wayne. Burial will be in Lindenwood Cemetery.
Decatur Daily Democrat, Adams County, Indiana; Tuesday, Aug. 5, 1975
Contributed by Janice Vasilovski

Jacob Marc Irven, 16, passed away January 30, 2018. He was born on December 10, 2001. Jacob attended Northrop High School, and enjoyed music. Jacob is survived by his mom and dad, Jeff and Julie Harper; grandparents, Curt and Rhonda Irven, and John and Judy Harper. Jacob was loved by his many aunts, uncles, and cousins. Funeral service will be held at 10:30AM on Saturday, February 3, 2018 at Emmanuel Lutheran Church 917 W. Jefferson Blvd. Fort Wayne, IN 46802 with calling 1 hour prior. Visitation will take place from 2-4p and 6-8p on Friday, February 2, 2018 at D.O. McComb and Sons Pine Valley Park Funeral Home, 1320 E. DuPont Road, Fort Wayne, IN 46825. Burial will take place at Covington Memorial Gardens, Fort Wayne, IN. Memorial contributions may be made to Emmanuel Lutheran Church or The Muscular Dystrophy Association.
D.O. McComb & Sons Funeral Home online obit (accessed January 31, 2018)

Bonnie L. Isenbarger, 85, passed away on Thursday, Jan. 18, 2018. Born Jan. 27, 1932, in Fort Wayne, she was the daughter of the late Orval and Vera Brubaker. Bonnie was a member of the Junior Bowling Association and was inducted in to the Women's Bowling Hall of Fame. She was involved with Little League Baseball and enjoyed woodworking and gardening. In her later years she enjoyed volunteering at Woodview Assisted Living, where she later became a resident. She is survived by her children, Daniel Isenbarger and Debra Byrd; five grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; brother, Frederick Brubaker; sister, Betty Hinton; and daughter-in-law, Susan Isenbarger. She was also preceded in death by her son, Steven Isenbarger; brothers, Ronald Brubaker and Harold Brubaker; and sisters, Dolores Graue and Dorothy Elliot. Funeral service is 10:30 a.m. Monday, Jan. 22, 2018, at D.O. McComb & Sons Lakeside Park Funeral Home, 1140 Lake Ave., Fort Wayne (IN 46805), with calling one hour prior. Visitation also from 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 21, 2018, at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Association or the American Cancer Society to memorialize her son Steven, who passed from lung cancer.
D.O. McComb & Sons Funeral Home online obit (accessed January 19, 2018)

Willie Edward Jones Jr., 89 passed away on January 12, 2018. He was born in Marion, Alabama on June 10, 1928. Surviving are his son; Willie Jones III; daughter Pecola (Byram) Trice, Denise Jones-Black, Linda Stephens, all of Fort Wayne, IN; and Nerissa Jones, of Atlanta, GA; adopted daughter, Sonja Jones of Atlanta, GA; and a Host of Grandkids and Great-Grand Kids. He was preceded in death by his wife Earnestine Lawrence-Jones; brothers, Robert and Argola Jones; and parents Willie Jones Sr. and Belle Hopper-Jones. Funeral service will be held at 10AM on Saturday, January 20, 2018 at D.O. McComb and Sons Lakeside Park, 1140 Lake Ave., Fort Wayne, IN 46805 with calling 1 hour prior.
D.O. McComb & Sons Funeral Home online obit (accessed January 17, 2018)

The Rev. Melvin Bucky Jordan, 77, died at his home surrounded by family on Monday, April 4, 2016. Bucky was born April 30, 1938, in West Frankfort, Illinois, to his parents E. Maxine (Melvin) and Elva W. Jordan. He graduated from West Frankfort High School in 1956. He attended McKendree University in Lebanon, Illinois, where he met his wife, Pauline (Hermes). They were married August, 24, 1957, in West Frankfort, Illinois. After graduating from McKendree in '61, he continued his education at Eden Theological Seminary in St. Louis, Missouri. While attending Eden, he would live in a campus dorm during the week, but then return to the church parsonage and Pauline on the weekends so he could serve as pastor of Christopher Methodist Church in Christopher, Illinois. It was during this time in Bucky's life when the Civil Rights Movement was in full swing. Bucky was home on the Sunday night that Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. made a televised appeal to the nation's clergy to come to Selma, Alabama. Dr. King asked them to come and march from Selma to Montgomery to protest the actions of local police and others in the events which came to be known as "Bloody Sunday." Hundreds of clergy responded to Dr. King's call and went to Selma to march, including Bucky. This experience made a lasting impression on his life, in addition to God's call, and for his ministry. Bucky finished two years at Eden and transferred to Candler School of Theology at Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia, where he finished his graduate work. He earned a full scholarship to the school due to his excellent tenor singing voice. In 1968 Bucky and Pauline chose Indiana as the place to establish his ministry and pastor many congregations until officially retiring in 2001. After retiring the first time, he served as pastor for two more churches until retiring for good in 2014. Over his 57 years of ministry Bucky served and ministered to more than 20 churches in Illinois and Indiana. In recent years, Bucky was a member of the Meridian Kiwanis Club where he was a past president of the club and a past lieutenant governor of the Heartland Division Indiana District. On October 13, 2013, Bucky was invited back to McKendree University as distinguished alum where he was presented the Academy of Excellence Award for Outstanding Achievement in Humanities. Bucky will be missed by his wife, Pauline; two sons, Tim (Raye Lynn) Jordan of Southport and Sean (Yaya) Jordan of Dallas, Georgia; and two grandchildren, Luke Melvin Jordan and Hadley Danielle Jordan. He is also survived by his sister, Mary Ellen (Michael) King of New Jersey; a nephew, Jeremy (Jon Fortin) Jordan King of New York City; a niece, Kelley (Dan) Zieser of New Jersey; sister-in-law, Cheryl (Bill) Harper; a grandnephew, Zion Nieves of Georgia; and countless others who have been touched by Bucky's ministry and friendship. Bucky was preceded in death by his parents. A funeral service and celebration of Bucky's life and ministry will be held on Saturday, April 16, at 2 p.m. at Asbury United Methodist Church, 1751 27th Street, Columbus. Visitation for Bucky will be on Friday, April 15, from 4 to 8 p.m. at Jewell-Rittman Family Funeral Home located at 3855 25th Street, Columbus, and from noon until service time Saturday at the church. A reception will be held after the service at the church. Inurnment of Bucky's cremains will be conducted in a private ceremony at Asbury United Methodist Church's Columbarium at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made through the funeral home to Asbury United Methodist Church in Columbus, the Michael J. Fox Parkinson's Research Foundation and Premier Hospice and Palliative Care in Seymour. A very important part of Bucky's ministry was through music. Therefore, a choir will sing during the funeral service on April 16.
The Republic, Columbus, Indiana; April 4, 2016

While brooding over family troubles John U. Maurer, Evansville, committed suicide with arsenic.
Waveland Independent, Montgomery County, IN; 5/6/1904
Contributed by Karen Zach

Sandra Sue Martin, 74, of Warren, IN, passed away at 8:55 AM on Thursday, January 11, 2018 at Heritage Pointe in Warren, with her family by her side. She was born on Wednesday, July 7, 1943, in Hartford City, IN. She married James W. "Jim" Martin on Friday, March 25, 1960; he passed away on December 26, 2015. Sandra worked in the nutritional services at Heritage Pointe for many years. She was a member of Sigma Phi Gamma, and was Den mother for the Cub Scouts. She enjoyed bowling and had been on a Warren work league, which she very much enjoyed. Sandy liked collecting angels and especially loved spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren. She was a member of the Hillcrest Church of the Nazarene in Warren. Loving Survivors include her Sons - James "Jim" (Susan) Martin Jr., Warren, IN, Tim (Leigh) Martin, Warren, IN, Mike Martin, Warren, IN, David Martin, Muncie, IN, Grandchildren - Justin Martin, Warren, IN, Hayley Martin, Warren, IN, Tori Martin, Warren, IN, Bailey Martin, Warren, IN, Rilee Martin, Warren, IN, Great Granddaughter - Aubrey Martin, Warren, IN, and Sister - Vickie Vallad, Hartford City, IN. She was preceded in death by her Husband - James W. "Jim" Martin, Father - William Vallad, Mother - Imogene (Monroe) Vallad, and Brothers - Bill Vallad, Jr., Ron Vallad, & Kenneth Vallad. Family and friends may gather to share and remember at Glancy - H. Brown & Son Funeral Home 203 N Matilda St. Warren on Monday, January 15, 2018 from 2:00 PM to 8:00 PM and from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Glancy - H. Brown & Son Funeral Home on Tuesday, January 16, 2018. A service to celebrate Sandra's life will be at Glancy - H. Brown & Son Funeral Home at 12:00 PM on Tuesday, January 16, 2018 with Chaplain Ginny Soultz officiating. Interment will follow in the Woodlawn Cemetery in Warren. Preferred memorials: Alzheimer's Association, 6324 Constitution Drive, Fort Wayne, IN 46804
Glancy Funeral Home online obit (accessed January 11, 2018)

Duane A. Mauck
January 16, 1958 -- December 3, 2017
Duane A. Mauck, 59, of Bristol died at 7:50 pm on Sunday, December 3, at Elkhart General Hospital. He was born on January 16, 1958 in Goshen to Harold R. and June (Arnold) Mauck. On September 15, 2007 in Bristol he married Jane Cline, she survives. Survivors in addition to his wife are daughter, Sara Mann; two sons, Cory Mauck, Devin VanWormer; step-daughter, Jeanne Fulks of Middlebury; step-son, Jerry Gross of Niles, MI; his mother in Middlebury; life-long friend, Reggie (Miss Linda) Huff of Goshen; numerous grandchildren; six step great-grandchildren; sister, Carolynn (Keith) Myran of Halliday, ND; niece, Jennifer Mauck of Middlebury; great nephew and niece, Landon & Jazzlynn Mauck. He was preceded in death by his father. Duane was a truck driver, farmer and had been the tree manager for Eby Pines. He worked for the Town of Bristol, where he also served as an EMT and firefighter. He enjoyed cutting and splitting wood, collecting John Deere and International tractors and also Semi tractor/trailers. Visitation will be two hours prior to the 11:00 am memorial service on Saturday December 9, at Griner Mennonite Church, Middlebury. Services will be conducted by Pastors Robert Riegsecker and Jason Miller. Memorials may be given to the Shriners.
Miller/Stewart Funeral Home online obit (accessed December 5, 2017)

Karla Kay May, 58, passed away Sunday, January 28, 2018 in Fort Wayne. Born in Fort Wayne, Karla completed her Bachelor's degree from Milligan College. She began her career as a teacher with Beardstown Christian Academy in Beardstown, IL, later becoming the principal. In 1998, she moved back to Fort Wayne and served as the Director of Children's Ministry at Christ's Church Fort Wayne. Most recently Karla worked for Taylor Made Systems in Kendallville, IN. Surviving are her four siblings, Karen (Dennis) Albro of Spencerville, IN, Kevin (Donna) May of Valparaiso, IN, Karol (Mike) King of Lebanon, IN, and Kim (Matthew) Seevers of Auburn, IN; 11 loving nieces and nephews; and 10 great-nieces and great-nephews. Karla was preceded in death by her parents, Richard and Dixie May. Service is 4:00 pm, Friday, February 2, 2018 at Christ's Church Fort Wayne, 3131 Maplecrest Rd (please use door 1) with calling one hour prior. Calling also Thursday, February 1, 2018, 4:00 pm - 7:00 pm at the church (please use door 4). Memorials may be made to Christ's Church Fort Wayne or Beardstown Christian Academy.
D.O. McComb & Sons Funeral Home online obit (accessed January 29, 2018)

Shelbyville - Charlee McCabe, 56, a farmer and stock buyer, was killed on the Michigan Pike east of here by a small automobile driven by Andrew Thomann, a blacksmith. McCabe's neck was broken. He and Cy Stafford left here to walk to the McCabe home. Thomann guided his car to the left to pass a string of buggies and the men, walking to the left of the buggies, failed to hear him until the car was upon them. Stafford jumped to safety, but McCabe was struck. A daughter, Mrs. Irene Innis of Decatur County, two sisters and five brothers survive the victim.
Waveland Independent, Montgomery County, IN; Dec. 18, 1914
Contributed by Karen Zach

Bruce A. McCanless
September 19, 1966 -- December 23, 2017
Bruce A. McCanless, 51, of Howe, died at 4:17 pm on Saturday, December 23, at Parkview Regional Medical Center, Fort Wayne. He was born on September 19, 1966 in Sandusky, OH, to Fred, Sr. and Dorothy (Fortuna) McCanless. On June 30, 2012 in Shipshewana he married Dana Vitali; she survives. Survivors in addition to his wife are daughter, Sarah McCanless of Middlebury; son, Nick McCanless of Howe; four step daughters, Monica Ward of WV, Amber Ward of Middlebury, Kristian Goldsmith and Destiney Goldsmith both of Howe; three step sons, Kody Ward of Middlebury, Cody Goldsmith and Jakob Crisp both of Howe; two grandchildren, Addison and Paisley; brother, Fred McCanless of Corning, OH. He was preceded in death by his parents. Bruce worked at Forest River Plant 105, starting as a welder and currently was a swing man. He was an avid deer hunter and fisherman. He loved cookouts, cooking on the grill, bonfires and spending time with family. Visitation will be from 11:00 am - 1:00 pm on Friday December 29, followed by a 1:00 pm funeral service at Miller-Stewart Funeral Home, 1003 S. Main St., Middlebury. Services will be conducted by Pastor Rick Lambright. Burial will be in Grace Lawn Cemetery, Middlebury. Memorials may be given to Miller-Stewart Funeral Home to assist with expenses.
Miller/Stewart Funeral Home online obit (accessed December 27, 2017)

Walter "Randy" McClain, 63, of Warren, IN, passed away at 10:27 AM on Saturday, January 27, 2018 at the Hospice Home in Fort Wayne, IN. He was born on Tuesday, August 31, 1954, in Huntington, IN. Randy loved birds, especially blue birds, fishing, guns, guitars, being outdoors, and loved his family and many good friends. Loving Survivors Include his; Mother - Doris (Smith) Hiner, Warren, IN, Life Long Companion - Susan Long, Daughters - Tiffany (James) Loftis, Van Buren, IN, Vanessa (Jordan Henderson) McClain, Huntington, IN, Son - Randy McClain, Huntington, IN, Sisters - Tammy (Jim) McNany, Warren, IN, Barbie (Dan) Stroud, Warren, IN, Brothers - Terry (Renee) McClain, Marion, IN, Brian (Barbie) McClain, Warren, IN, & Shawn (Dee) McClain, Poneto, IN, and 10 Grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his Father -Leo McClain. Family and friends may gather to share and remember at Glancy - H. Brown & Son Funeral Home 203 N Matilda St. Warren on Tuesday, January 30, 2018 from 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM. A service to celebrate his life will be at Glancy - H. Brown & Son Funeral Home at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, January 31, 2018 with Ethan Stivers officiating. Interment will follow in the Woodlawn Cemetery in Warren. Preferred memorials: To the Family for Funeral Expenses. Arrangements are being handled by Glancy - H. Brown & Son Funeral Home in Warren.
Glancy & Brown Funeral Home online obit (accessed January 29, 2018)

Jack E. McClellan, 89, passed Monday, January 22, 2018 at home with family by his side. Born in Fort Wayne, he was a son to the late Ralph and Nora McClellan. Jack proudly served his country in the USMC and was a member of the American Legion 241. He retired from Dana after 40 years of service. He loved bingo, bowling and was an avid fan for Notre Dame. He is survived by children, Gary McClellan of Florida and Connie (Doug) Wylie of Fort Wayne; four grandchildren, Justin, Leah, Dana and Cory (Katie); one great granddaughter, Kadynce, with a baby girl on the way. He was preceded in death by his wife of 62 years, Alice McClellan, in 2012; and two brothers, Robert and Richard McClellan. Funeral Service is 1:30 p.m., Friday, January 26, 2018 at Covington Funeral Home, 8408 Covington Road, with calling two hours prior. He will be entombed at Covington Memorial Gardens. Preferred memorials are to Hospice Home.
Covington Memorial Funeral Home online obit (accessed January 23, 2018)

Joe McFall, aged 15, was drowned at New Richmond Sunday. He with two other boys went swimming in a gravel pit.
Waveland Independent, Montgomery County, IN; May 22, 1914
Contributed by Karen Zach

Terre Haute, Ind., Aug 24 - Erwin Mearis, a watchmaker, and a well known character about town, was found dead yesterday in jail from alcoholism. When arrested he was very drunk, but it was not thought necessary to give him medical attention.
Crawfordsville Weekly Journal, Montgomery County, IN; 25 Aug 1899, p. 7
Contributed by Karen Zach

Hazel B. Messer, 86, passed away Saturday, January 6, 2018, at her home in rural Auburn. She was born June 1, 1931, in Leslie County, Kentucky to the late Ail and Ora (Muncie) Brock. Hazel married Emanuel Messer on February 24, 1953, in Pennington Gap, Virginia, and he passed away July 20, 1996. Mrs. Messer worked for Ball Brass & Aluminum Foundry in Auburn for 28 years, retiring in 1996. Hazel was a member of the Auburn Church of the Nazarene. She was a volunteer for over 12 years at the Curiosity Shop and loved to garden. Surviving are a son, Mark A. Messer of Auburn; three daughters and sons-in-law, Deborah K. and Keith Treesh of Auburn, Sherry L. and Eric Brown of Louisville, Kentucky, and Patricia L. Phillips of Hot Springs, Arkansas; five grandchildren, Darcy Flanagan, Carrie Flanagan, Matisse Flanagan, Jason Messer and Brandon Treesh; four great grandchildren; five brothers and sisters-in-law, Ira and Bennie Brock of Tennessee, Delnoe and Fay Brock of Roberts, Kentucky, Curtis and Becky Brock of Stamping Ground, Kentucky, William and Cathy Brock of Murrysville, Pennsylvania, and Lonnie and Sue Brock of Belleville, Illinois; and two sisters, Bessie Ball of Whitestown, IN and Madelan Kirby of Mozelle, Kentucky. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; son, Oscar L. Messer; and three brothers, Monroe Brock, Roosevelt Brock and Roger Brock. Services will be 1 PM Saturday at Feller and Clark Funeral Home, 1860 Center St., Auburn, with the Rev. Doug Thomas officiating. Burial will take place in Woodlawn Cemetery in Auburn. Visitation will be from 2 to 7 PM Friday at the funeral home and also 1 hour prior to the service Saturday from 12 to 1 at the funeral home. Memorials may be directed to Auburn Church of the Nazarene.
Feller & Clark Funeral Home online obit (accessed January 7, 2018)

Mardell M. Messmann, 91, of Huntertown, passed away at 1:45 a.m. on Monday, January 1, 2018 at Ashton Creek Nursing Home. Born on October 24, 1926 in Huntertown She was the only daughter of the late Almon & Freedonna (Dunten) Smith. She spent her formative years in Huntertown and graduated from Huntertown High School in 1945. Mardell married the late James Messmann in Huntertown on June 18, 1949. He preceded her in death on October 5, 2007. She retired from Carroll High School in 1988 after more than 20 years as a secretary in the guidance department. She was a charter member of Our Hope Lutheran Church, Huntertown and enjoyed playing in Bridge and Euchre Clubs. Mardell is survived by two daughters, Corine (Arnold) Bailey and LuAnn Linker both of Fort Wayne; two sons, Michael (Cathy) Messmann and Robert (Kelly) Messmann both of Huntertown; eight grandchildren, Justin Bailey, Nathan (Amy) Messman, Jason Messmann, Angela (Larry) Martin, Shanda Linker, Shane Linker, Madison (Riley) LeFever and Morgan Messmann; six great granddaughters, Grace, Audrey, Katelyn, Sophia, Leah and Georgia. She is preceded in death by her brother, Lewis Smith; a grandson, James Martin Messmann; a son-in-law, Richard Linker. Calling will take place at Our Hope Lutheran Church, Huntertown on Thursday, January 4, 2018 from 3:00 PM until 7:00 PM. Calling also one hour prior to the service. Services will begin at 11:00 AM, at Our Hope Lutheran Church on Friday, January 5, 2018. Burial will follow at Huntertown Cemetery. In lieu of flowers please make donations to Our Hope Lutheran Church or Huntertown Fire Department. Thank you to our friends at Ashton Creek for their loving care of our mother.
Sheets & Childs Funeral Home online obit (accessed January 1, 2018)

Randall Dean Metzger, 62, of New Haven, passed away Monday, January 15, 2018 at IU Med Center. Born in Wabash, Indiana, he was a Navy Veteran member of the American Legion. Randy was a lifetime truck driver, retiring from Food Marketing. He enjoyed golfing and watching the Chicago Cubs. He is survived by son, Randall Jr.; step-daughter, Charity (Andrew) Torrez; mother, Wanda Metzger; brothers, Dennis (Cinda) Metzger and Jay (Jill) Metzger; sister, Babette (Rob) Record-Evans; step grandsons, Ethan and Nolan. He was preceded in death by his father, Ronald Metzger, in May 2017. Private family services were held. He will be laid to rest at Covington Memorial Gardens.
Covington Memorial Funeral Home online obit (accessed January 21, 2018)

Asherville, Ind., Aug 25 - Jacob Neidlinger, 50 years old, was instantly crushed to death late yesterday in the mine of Zeller, McClellan & Co. here. The roof gave way, burying him under tons of slate.
Crawfordsville Weekly Journal, Montgomery County, IN; 25 Aug 1899, p. 3
Contributed by Karen Zach

Yenna D. Nelson, 57, of Fort Wayne, IN, passed away January 13, 2018. Arrangements by D.O. McComb and Sons Lakeside Park.
D.O. McComb & Sons Funeral Home online obit (accessed January 16, 2018)

Funeral services and burial were held Tuesday in Lucerne Valley, Calif., for former Adams County resident Lester R. Pease, 75, whose death occurred July 26, at a convalescent hospital there. He was the father of John Pease and a brother of Walter Pease, both of Bluffton, who along with a nephew, Jack Pease of Columbia City, attended the funeral services. Born in Adams County, Mr. Pease had resided in Bluffton about 11 years, during which time he operated the former Princess Confectionery. He left this area about 1936. Enlisting in the armed forces at age 16, he served prior to and during World War 1. After moving to California, he operated a small restaurant and worked in aircraft factories and at Edwards Air Force Base. He had been in failing health the past 15 to 20 years and had been retired. Also surviving are the wife, Berniece of Lucerne Valley, and several nieces and nephews.
[Buried Lucerne Valley Memorial Park, Lucerne, San Bernardino County, CA]
Decatur Daily Democrat, Adams County, Indiana; Friday, August 1, 1975
Contributed by Janice Vasilovski

Lloyd Perkins, 65, of Fort Wayne passed away Tuesday, January 2, 2018, at Kingston Care Center of Fort Wayne. Lloyd was born September 28, 1952, in Fort Wayne to the late James Thomas and Mary Jane (King) Perkins. He was a veteran of the United States Army serving from 1971-1974. Lloyd worked for several years at Foamex in Fort Wayne, retiring in April of 2015. He attended Calvary Temple in Fort Wayne. Surviving are seven siblings and their spouses, Fern Christine Lloyd of Beattyville, Kentucky, Jerry Lee (Marilyn) Perkins of Nicholasville, Kentucky, Irene (Kenny) Myers of Garrett, Darlene (Harry) Riley of Auburn, Marilyn (Walter) Couch of Hazard, Kentucky, Elaine Beck of Auburn and Tina (Ray) Lawson of Auburn; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Kenneth M. Perkins; grandparents Otis and Leatha Perkins and George and Arvenia King; close friend Larry Custer; and sisters Lida Ruth Perkins, Lorraine Perkins and Helen Perkins. Services will be 2 p.m. Friday at Feller and Clark Funeral Home, 1860 Center St., Auburn, with Pastor Walter R. Couch officiating. Burial will take place in Fairview Cemetery in Huntertown. Visitation will be from 1-2 p.m. Friday prior to the service at the funeral home. Memorials may be directed to the Fort Wayne Rescue Mission.
Feller & Clark Funeral Home online obit (accessed January 3, 2018)

Ellen Kay Pettit
October 9, 1950 -- December 3, 2017
Ellen Kay Pettit, 67, of Middlebury, died at 3:13 pm on Sunday, December 3, in Shipshewana. She was born on October 9, 1950 in, Cleveland, OH to Homer and Lola (Newton) Weinreich. On September 27, 1969 in Cleveland, OH she married Michael Pettit, he survives. Survivors in addition to her husband are daughter, Michele (Joe) Eickholt of LaGrange; two sons, Russell (Tesha) Pettit of Middlebury, Michael Jr., (Jami) Pettit of Syracuse; ten grandchildren, Cody Riley, Steven Riley, Arthaygus McGuire, Natasha McGuire, Brooklyn Pettit, James Pettit, Chelsea Stein, Kaylyn Pettit, Jazmyne Hensley, Drew Deney, Anita Deney; great-grandchild, Bailey McGuire; three sisters, Dixie (Dan) Beatty of Bristol, Sandy (Pete) Brandt of Cleveland, OH, Paula Givens of Independence, MO. She was preceded in death by her parents and a sister, Joan. Ellen had retired after working 16 years at Pittsfield of Indiana. She enjoyed quilting, gardening, camping, motorcycle riding and fishing. The family will hold a private memorial service. Memorial may be made to Miller-Stewart Funeral Home to assist with expenses.
Miller/Stewart Funeral Home online obit (accessed December 4, 2017)

Antonia M. Phillips, 91, passed away Wednesday, January 10, 2018 at The Towne House Retirement Center in Fort Wayne. Born in Milwaukee, WI, Antonia worked with Montgomery Ward for 7 years, retiring in 1988. She was a member of The Chapel. She enjoyed sewing and loved her children and grandchildren. Surviving are her sons, George (Vicki) Walter of Fort Wayne, Paul (Lisa) Phillips of Auburn, IN and Glen (Mary) Phillips of Fort Wayne; daughter, Sandy (Ted) Tritch of Springfield, MO; 11 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; and 8 great-great-grandchildren. Antonia was preceded in death by husband, Davis M. Phillips; father, Michael Korosec; mother, Mary Korosec; and five brothers. Service is 10:30 am, Monday, January 15, 2018 at - D.O. McComb & Sons Pine Valley Park Funeral Home, 1320 East Dupont Road with an hour of calling prior to the service. Calling at - D.O. McComb & Sons Pine Valley Park Funeral Home, 1320 East Dupont Road, Sunday, January 14, 2018, 3:00 pm - 7:00 pm. Burial in Highland Park Cemetery, Fort Wayne, Indiana. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the Parkview Hospice.
D.O. McComb & Sons Funeral Home online obit (accessed January 11, 2018)

Kirk J. Phillips, 54, passed away Friday, January 26, 2018 at his home in Fort Wayne, IN. Born in Fort Wayne, IN, Kirk gradurated from Snider HS in 1981. He was a member of St. Nicholas Eastern Orthodox Church, Surviving are his daughter, Maria C. Phillips of Tulsa, OK; parents, David and Millie Phillips of Fort Wayne, IN; sisters, Milissa (Robert) Bohlender and Milinda (Rob) Abel both of Auburn, IN. Kirk was preceded in death by his brother Kyle W. Phillips. Memorial Service is 5:30 pm, Sunday February 4, 2018 at St. Nicholas Eastern Orthodox Church, 3535 Crescent Ave with Fr. Andrew Jarmus officiating. Memorials may be made to the St. Nicholas Eastern Orthodox Church. Arrangements by D.O. McComb and Sons Lakeside Park Funeral Home, Fort Wayne, IN.
D.O. McComb & Sons Funeral Home online obit (accessed January 29, 2018)

Michiko "Mitze" Ono Pickett
July 10, 1933 -- January 13, 2018
Michiko "Mitze" Ono Pickett, 84, of Bristol, died peacefully in her sleep at 4:30 pm on Saturday, January 13, at her daughter's home where she had resided for the past year and a half. She had been in declining health the last five months. She was born on July 10, 1933, in Tokyo, Japan, to Toki and Seijin Ono. She married Fremont "Monte" Pickett in Bedford to whom she was married for over 40 years. Surviving are daughter, June Wild of Bristol; son, Jeff (Dori) Pickett of Royal Oak, MI; granddaughter, Valerie Seegers of San Francisco, CA; grandson, Alexander Seegers of Los Angeles, CA; two sisters, Yukiko and Yuriko both of Tokyo; brother, Hiroshi (Noriko) Ono of Tokyo. She was preceded in death by her husband, parents, and a sister, Emiko. She was a legal secretary, flower shop owner, Indiana Democratic Delegate, and a translator for Honda Motors. She was a member of Shoals United Methodist Church and IU Alumni. Family and friends may gather at1 pm followed by a memorial service at 2 pm on Saturday, January 20 at the family residence 19710 Amberwood Drive, Bristol.
Miller-Stewart Funeral Home online obit (accessed January 17, 2018)

Grace M. Plansky
October 11, 1928 -- December 22, 2017
Grace M. Plansky, 89, of Goshen, died at 6:50 pm, on Friday, December 22 at Greencroft Health Care Center. She was born on October 11, 1928, in Milwaukee, WI, to Elmer and Pearl (Healey) Kuntz. On June 17, 1950 in Milwaukee, WI she married George Plansky; he died December 24, 1990. Surviving are daughter, Margaret (Michael) Renaud of Middlebury; granddaughter, Laura (Randy) Yoder of Millersburg; grandson, John (Maranda) Renaud of Bristol; three great-grandchildren, Elias James Yoder, Ronan Bentley Renaud, and Lydia Grace Renaud; nephew, Stephen Reightley of Milwaukee; niece, Susan (Scott) McPhaul of Wind Lake, WI. She was preceded in death by her husband, parents, and sister, Jean Reightley. She was a member of St. Paul's Lutheran Church. Grace loved her great-grandchildren and enjoyed reading and painting. Visitation will be from 4:00 - 5:00 pm on Sunday, January 14, 2018 followed by a memorial service at 5:00 pm at St. Paul's Lutheran Church, Middlebury. Services will be conducted by Pastor Randy Schroeder. Burial will be at a later date at Wisconsin Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers memorials may be given to St. Paul's Lutheran Church.
Miller-Stewart Funeral Home online obit (accessed December 27, 2017)

HAMILTON - Delores June Preston, 59, died Wednesday in St. Joseph Medical Center. Surviving are her husband, Max; a daughter; a son; mother, Ives Mills of Auburn; two stepdaughters; a stepson; and nine grandchildren. Services are 2 pm tomorrow in Hamilton Church of Christ, with burial in Eddy Cemetery. Calling is 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 pm today in Wilson Funeral Home.
Fort Wayne News-Sentinel (IN); March 9, 1990, Page 20

Scott A. Price, 58, passed away Monday, January 29, 2018. Born in Fort Wayne, IN, he was a graduate of Snyder High School. Scott worked as a painter with several local companies. Surviving is his mother, Judith (Stephen) Glassley of Fort Wayne. Scott was preceded in death by his father, William Price. Memorials may be made to the Fort Wayne Animal Care and Control.
D.O. McComb & Sons Funeral Home online obit (accessed January 30, 2018)

Byron K. Prough
March 15, 1937 -- March 5, 2017
Byron K. "Barney" Prough, 79, of Shipshewana, died at 6:28 am on Sunday, March 5, at Elkhart General Hospital. He was born on March 15, 1937 in Shipshewana, to Russel and Marjorie (Spreuer) Prough. On August 24, 1956 in Angola he married Jacquelyn Kolady; she survives. Survivors in addition to his wife are two daughters, Ann (Jeff) Keenan of Goshen, Sally (Mart) Ballard of Columbia City; two sons, Todd (Janet) Prough of Nappanee, Scott (Trish) Prough of Shipshewana; 14 grandchildren, 20 great grandchildren, one great great granddaughter; four sisters, Frances Prough and Ella Yoder both of Shipshewana, Martha (Les) Pence of Sheridan, Mary Lou (Jack) VanAntwerp of Howe. He was preceded in death by his parents, one sister, four brothers, one grandson, one granddaughter and one great granddaughter. Byron was a Korean War veteran and a retired truck driver providing Amish taxi service after retirement. He loved playing with his grandchildren and dogs and enjoyed fishing and playing cards. Visitation will be from 4:00- 8:00 pm on Thursday March 9, at Miller-Stewart Funeral Home, 1003 South Main Street Middlebury. There will be one hour of visitation prior to the 10:30 am funeral service on Friday, March 10, also at the funeral home. Services will be conducted by his son Pastor Todd Prough. Burial will be in Shore Cemetery, Shipshewana. Memorials may be given to ARK Animal Sanctuary of LaGrange.
Miller-Stewart Funeral Home online obit (accessed March 6, 2017)

Walter Saalfrank, 73, route 1, Hoagland, a farmer, died at 9:30 p.m. Wednesday at his home. He was a member of the Emmanuel Lutheran Church on Wayne Trace, Fort Wayne. Born in Marion Township, Allen County, on Oct. 15, 1901, he was the son of Louis and Emma Lepper-Saalfrank, and was married on Feb. 9, 1936 to Ida Schlaudroff, who survives. Also surviving are a number of nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be held Saturday at 1:30 p.m. at the church, with Rev. David Thierfelder officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Friends may call at the Zwick Funeral Home after 1 p.m. Friday and until 11 a.m. Saturday. The body will lie in state at the church from noon until time of the services.
[Buried Soest Emmanuel Lutheran Cem., Fort Wayne, Allen County, IN]
Fort Wayne Journal Gazette, Allen County, Indiana; Thursday, August 7, 1975
Contributed by Karin King

Fred Schultz, an aged man, living at Huntington, killed himself by hanging because his grandson, two years old, was afraid of him and was not allowed to sit on his knees.
Waveland Independent, Montgomery County, IN; 5/6/1904
Contributed by Karen Zach

Indianapolis - Three were dead and four seriously injured, the toll taken by an interurban crossing near Ft. Benjamin Harrison, pronounced dangerous by Coroner Durham. When the automobile, carrying the family of TO Stout attempted to cross the tracks, a Union Traction car struck it amidships, instantly killing Stout, his son Claud and his son-in-law JC Shaffer
Waveland Independent, Montgomery County, IN; May 22, 1914
Contributed by Karen Zach

Marian Tassler-Kendall, 96, passed away Friday, January 12, 2018. She was born to Clifford Gemmill and Mary (Black) Higgins. Her father passed when she was just six months old and her mother remarried the late, Leland Higgins, they then raised the children together. She was a teacher's aide at Fort Wayne Community Schools, a caterer at Lincoln National and a legal secretary for Central Soya. She is survived by daughters, Cheryl (Jeff) Ford-Suffel and Jill (John) Evans; 5 grandchildren, Jamie (Josh) Pike, Robert (Christine) Ford, Jared Evans, Tony Ford and Ryan Ford; 5 great grandchildren, Lexie, Hudson, Archer, Lennox and Stella; and a daughter in law, Linda Tassler. She was also preceded in death by her son, Randy Tassler; brother, LeGrand "Bud" Gemmill; and her sister and brother in law, Gilda (Fred) Kabisch. Funeral Service is 6 p.m., Monday, January 15, 2018 at Covington Funeral Home, 8408 Covington Road, with calling 4:30 till service. Officiating will be Pastor Donny Goff. She will be laid to rest at Covington Memorial Gardens. Preferred memorials are to Adams Woodcrest Retirement Community.
Covington Memorial Funeral Home online obit (accessed January 14, 2018)

Charleston, Ind - Mrs. Anna Teeple, wife of Assistant Postmaster James Teeple of this place and her 9-year-old son, Clarence, members of a camping party were drowned in the Ohio River 10 miles above Jeffersonville yesterday afternoon. The child got beyond his depth and the other went to his assistance. Being unable to swim, she and the boy were drawn under the water and drowned in sight of the other members of the party who were hurrying to their rescue.
Crawfordsville Weekly Journal, Montgomery County, IN; 25 Aug 1899, p. 7
Contributed by Karen Zach

Hon Thi Thi, 95, passed away Wednesday, January 17, 2018 at Parkview Regional Medical Center. Born in Tayninh, Vietnam, Hon was the daughter of the late Xuong Thi and Ngu Thi Cao. Surviving are her children, Ninh Tran, Chien Tran, Sau Tran, Ngoc Tran, Dung Tran, Hoa Tran, Thanh Tran, and Phat Tran. Hon was preceded in death by husband Man Tran. Service is 10:30 am, Saturday, January 20, 2018 at D.O. McComb & Sons Pine Valley Park Funeral Home, 1320 East Dupont Road with calling from 8:00 am until the service. Calling at the funeral home Friday, January 19, 2018, 11:00 am - 9:00 pm. Burial in Highland Park Cemetery, Fort Wayne, Indiana.
D.O. McComb & Sons Funeral Home online obit (accessed January 18, 2018)

Edward P. Thompson, for many years postmaster at Indianapolis, and later postmaster at Havana, died suddenly at his Indianapolis home.
Waveland Independent, Montgomery County, IN; 5/6/1904
Contributed by Karen Zach

Clarence W. "Mac" Thomson, 71, died Saturday, Jan. 27, 2018, at his home in rural Auburn. Mr. Thomson worked as a machine operator for Zollner Pistons in Fort Wayne for 35 years, retiring in 2001. He was born Feb. 28, 1946, in Garrett to the late Mac and Emily (Nieman) Thomson. He married Kim J. Clady on May 19, 1984, in Corunna, and she survives in Auburn. Also surviving are a sister, Beverly (Tom) Blust of Garrett; a brother, Ernest (Lois) Thomson of Uniondale; five sisters-in-law; two brothers-in-law; and countless nieces and nephews. Services will be held at a later date. Memorials are to Heartland Home Health Care and Hospice or DeKalb County Humane Shelter.
Feller & Clark Funeral Home online obit (accessed January 28, 2018)

Dolores J. Troyer
January 29, 1931 -- November 4, 2017
Dolores J. Troyer, 86, of Goshen, formerly of Middlebury, died at 2:54 pm, on Saturday, November 4, at Courtyard of Goshen. She was born on January 29, 1931, in Middlebury, to Ed and Maggie (Berkey) Nihart. On September 17, 1948 in Middlebury she married John H. Troyer; he died August 26, 1995. Surviving are two daughters, Rhonda (Lamar) Stutzman of Nappanee, Rosalie Kern of Middlebury; son, Ronald L. (Loraine) Troyer of Middlebury; nine grandchildren, 14 great grandchildren, two great-great grandchildren; brother, Herb (Betty) Nihart of White Pigeon, MI; three sisters-in-law, Arlene Brown of Elkhart, Mary Nihart of White Pigeon, MI, Mary Jane Troyer of Honey Brook, PA. She was preceded in death by her husband; parents; two brothers, Jay and Cal Nihart; grandson, Andrew John Troyer. Dolores was a lifelong member of Pleasant Valley Church of the Brethren. She worked at Crystal Valley Catering for more than 20 years. She was a seamstress, candy maker, and enjoyed going on fishing trips with her husband to Wisconsin and Canada. She also enjoyed playing cards. Visitation will be from 2:00-4:00 pm and 6:00 - 8:00 pm on Thursday, November 9 and for one hour prior to the 10:00 am funeral service on Friday, November 10 at Miller-Stewart Funeral Home, 1003 South Main Street, Middlebury. Services will be conducted by Pastor Danny Griffin. Burial will be in Grace Lawn Cemetery, Middlebury. Memorials may be given to Great Lakes Caring Hospice.
Miller-Stewart Funeral Home online obit (accessed November 5, 2017)

Harley D. Troyer
August 2, 1940 -- December 11, 2017
Harley D. Troyer, 77, of Goshen, transitioned peacefully into eternal life surrounded by his family at 3:25 pm on Monday, December 11, at his residence. He had been in declining health with Pulmonary Fibrosis. He was born on August 2, 1940 in Goshen, to David and Susie (Miller) Troyer. On December 13, 1959 in Middlebury he married Betty Miller; she survives. Survivors in addition to his wife are two daughters, Cindy (Allen) Eash of Middlebury, Rose (Jason) Yoder of Middlebury; three sons, Jim (Shirley) Troyer of Goshen, Steve (Regina) Troyer of Elkhart, Jerry (Corine) Troyer of Goshen; 16 grandchildren, four great grandchild; sister, Edna (Mel) Shetler of Goshen; brother, Edwin (Fern) Troyer of Bristol; brother-in-law, Dale Miller, whom Harley and his wife, Betty provided care, for 20 years. He was preceded in death by his parents, grandson, Benjamin Ross Eash, two sisters, Marie Mast and Anna Mae Mast, four brothers, Leroy, David Jr., Melvin and his twin Harvey Troyer. Harley was Pastor at Griner Mennonite Church for 40 years and overseer of various churches. He was VP of Engineering at Rockwood for 17 years and he and his wife were Shaklee sales leaders. In retirement Harley was co-owner of ImageLaz. He was active in leadership of the Conservative Mennonite Conference and the Clinton Christion School Board where he had served as Superintendent. He volunteered at Menno-Hof and at Gospel Echoes where he graded papers. He served on the board at Greencroft where he also taught Sunday School. Harley enjoyed fishing, biking, photography, and golf. He was a faithful husband, father and grandfather and loved spending time with his family. Visitation will be from 5:00 - 8:00 pm on Thursday, December 14, and 2:00 - 5:00 and 6:00 - 8:00 pm Friday, December 15, at Griner Mennonite Church, Middlebury. There will be an 11:00 am public graveside service on Saturday, December 16, at Griner Cemetery followed by a 1:00 pm celebration of life service at Griner Mennonite Church. Services will be conducted by Pastors Jim Eigsti and Robert Riegsecker. Memorials may be given to Gospel Echoes or Serve India.
Miller/Stewart Funeral Home online obit (accessed December 12, 2017)

Robin Hamilton Tuttle, 57, of Kendallville entered into Heaven and into the arms of Jesus on Monday, January 29, 2018, at 2 a.m. with her family at her side. She was born September 27, 1960, in Pikeville, Kentucky, to Nelvin and Loretta Hamilton. On January 4, 1991, in Kentucky she married Jeffery Tuttle. He survives in Kendallville. Mrs. Tuttle moved to this area five years ago, coming from Kentucky. While in Kentucky, she was the manager at Rite-Aid. She was a member of Charity United Baptist Church of Brushy Prairie. She was a strong, God-fearing person. Robin loved plants and watching them grow. Also surviving are a daughter, Felisha Ann Salisbury of Prestonsburg, Kentucky; one granddaughter, Natalie Raine Amburgey; and two sisters and brothers-in-law, Vonda and Mike Tuttle of Ashley and Jennifer and Timothy Kirk of Teabury, Kentucky. She was also preceded in death by her parents; a son, Shannon Eugene Hall; and a sister, Rhonda Hamilton. Funeral services will be Thursday, February 1, 2018, at 11 a.m. at Charity United Baptist Church, 720 S 900 E, LaGrange with Pastor Ben Brown officiating and preachers, Brother Olie Smith, Brother Travis Moore, Brother Jamie Tuttle, Brother Billy Ray Tuttle, and Brother Zack Brown. Burial will be in Brushy Chapel Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Mike Tuttle, Jamie Tuttle, Travis Moore, Zack Brown, Josh Hamilton, Shawn Tuttle, and Eric Amburgey. Calling is Tuesday, January 30, 2018, after 4 p.m. and Wednesday, January 31, 2018, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the church. An evening service will be held at 6 p.m. both nights. Young Family Funeral Home, Kendallville Chapel, 222 South State Street, Kendallville is assisting the family with arrangements.
Young Family Funeral Home Funeral online obit (accessed January 29, 2018)

Jane Smith, daughter of John and Susan Smith was born in New Jersey June 12, 1814 and was married to James VanHorn of Millville, Butler County Ohio in December 1835 being a resident of that place until death. To this happy union 7 children were born: three of whom are living, William K of Millville, and Mary A and James E of near Jamestown, Ind. Father VanHorn died Dec 25, 1850. Again she was married to Garrott Vanarsdall of Reilley, Butler County Ohio Jan 29, 1854. To this union three children were born all of whom are living. One sister, Mrs. Martha Epperson of Crawfordsville only survives of a family of 10 children. She united with the Presbyterian Church of Reilly at an early age and was a member faithful and true. She died Sept 17, 1899, aged 85 years three months five days. She was a mother god and true and leaves a goodly number of grandchildren and host of friends.
Crawfordsville Weekly Journal, Montgomery County, IN; October 6, 1896
Contributed by Karen Zach

Mary A. (Marie) Velten, 89, passed away Saturday, January 13, 2018 at Parkview Hospice Randallia in Fort Wayne, IN. She was born on March 17, 1928 in Three Rivers, MI, to the late Charles A. and Marion Bessone. Mary spent a year in vocational school at Vogue Fashion in Chicago, IL and worked as a buyer for several years. She also worked as a teller with Norwest Bank for 17 years, retiring in 1990. Surviving are her sons, David C. (Mary) Velten of Winston-Salem, NC, John E. Velten of Fort Wayne, IN; grandchildren, Michael (Claire) Velten, Sarah Velten; sister-in-law, Agnes Adwell of Sun City, AZ, sister-in-law, Mary Bessone of Pensacola, FL; and several nieces and nephews. Marywas preceded in death by husband, James E. Velten, brothers, Andy and Frank Bessone, sister-in-law, Vivian Bessone. Mass of Christian Burial is 10:30 AM Wednesday, January 17, 2018 at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church, 4916 Trier Rd. with calling one hour prior to mass. Entombment Catholic Cemetery, Fort Wayne, Indiana. In lieu of flowers, a memorial may be made to St. Mary's Soup Kitchen or St. Charles Borromeo Catholic School.
D.O. McComb & Sons Funeral Home online obit (accessed January 15, 2018)

Theresa L. Venderley, 61, of Rome City died Wednesday, January 17, 2018, at Visiting Nurse & Hospice Home, Fort Wayne. She was born November 13, 1956, in Fort Wayne to Elmer and Alma (Feltz) Neuhaus. On June 13, 1993, in Las Vegas, Nevada, she married Paul J. Venderley. Mrs. Venderley was a server, hairdresser and a homemaker. She was a member of St. Gaspar Catholic Church in Rome City. Surviving are three sons, Jay (Ashley) Wetzel of Fort Wayne, Justin (Janielle) Shearer of Fort Wayne, and Jacob (Kristi) Shearer of Millersburg; a daughter, Sedona (Kyle) Maresh of Milford; three stepsons, Brent Venderley of Florida, Joshua Venderley of Angola, and Kit Venderley of Seymour; two stepdaughters, Tracy Venderley of Virginia, and Marcy (Paul) Venderley-Schwarz of Florida; six grandchildren, Leah Shearer, Keona Shearer, Abby Shearer, Caleb Shearer, Zach Shearer, and Adalynn Wetzel; three brothers, Carl (Cindy) Neuhaus of Fort Wayne, Joe (Patty) Neuhaus of Fort Wayne, and John (Kim) Neuhaus of Fort Wayne; and a sister, Ann (Dave) Neuhaus-Hicks of Fort Wayne. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband on August 12, 2017; two grandchildren, Elliana Shearer and Teegan Wetzel; a brother, Ernie Neuhaus; and a sister, Barb Neuhaus. Mass of Christian Burial will be Monday, January 22, 2018, at 11 a.m. in St. Gaspar Catholic Church, Rome City with Father Bernard Ramenaden officiating. Burial will be in St. Gaspar Catholic Cemetery. Calling is Sunday, January 21, 2018, from 2 to 6 p.m. at Young Family Funeral Home, Wolcottville Chapel, State Road 9 North, Wolcottville and one hour prior to the services at the church on Monday.
Young Funeral Funeral Home online obit (accessed January 17, 2018)

Auburn - Dorothy A. Wagner, 88, of Auburn died Saturday, Jan. 31, 2009, at Laurels of DeKalb Nursing Home, Butler. Mrs. Wagner was a bookkeeper for Dr. Harry Covell for 22 years, retiring in 1973. In DeKalb County, she was born to Munson and Ethel May (Loutzenheiser) Baughman on April 14, 1920. She married Roland W. Wagner in 1944 in Centertown, Ga. He survives in Auburn. Also surviving are several nieces and nephews. Preceding her in death were her parents, a son R. Michael Wagner; two brothers, Eugene Baughman; and two sisters, Iris Baughman and Zella R. Monroe. Services will be at 11 a.m. Tuesday at Feller & Clark Funeral Home, 1860 S. Center St., Auburn, with Pastor Al Black officiating. Burial will be in Woodlawn Cemetery, Auburn. Calling will be from 10 to 11 a.m. Tuesday at the funeral home. Memorials are to the DeKalb Community Foundation.
Evening Star, Auburn, IN; February 1, 2009
Contributed by Scott Bowmar

Nashville - Isaac Wilkerson, 22 years old, son of Solomon Wilkerson, a farmer was shot and killed by his brother, Lodi Wilkerson, while the two were hunting on the farm of TC Steele, an Indianapolis artist near Belmont. Isaac was walking in front of his brother when the latter's shotgun was discharged accidentally, the charge shattering the victim's knee. The injured man was carried to the Steele home, where Mrs. Steele dressed the wound. Wilkerson died while being taken in a buggy to his home.
Waveland Independent, Montgomery County, IN; Dec. 18, 1914
Contributed by Karen Zach

A special from Greenfield, Ind. last Tuesday says: At 8 o'clock tonight near Philadelphia, this county, John Williamson, an engineer on a threshing machine was instantly killed. The accident was caused by the engine falling over a steep embankment on the east side of the Sugar Creek bridge. Mr. Williamson was a prominent farmer and well known over the county. The gentleman is a brother of Rev. James Williamson of this county
Crawfordsville Weekly Journal, Montgomery County, IN; 25 Aug 1899, p. 5
Contributed by Karen Zach

Lane WILLSON, eldest son of Col. S.C. Willson of this city, died at his residence in Indianapolis on Wednesday morning March 17th. His disease was inflammation of the brain and his illness but for a few hours duration. His remains were brought to his old home for interment and deposited in the New School Cemetery on the afternoon of Thursday, services taking place at the family residence. Lane's age was about 33 years.
[Oak Hill Records: Col. Samuel C. Willson purchased Lot 42 in Section 5 on May 7, 1880. Henry Lane Willson was moved from Mills Cemetery and reinterred in Oak Hill on May 18, 1880. The graves were removed from New School or Mills Cemetery.] Stone: Lane Henry Willson, Co ?, ? Ind Inf, Oct 16, 1841 - March 17, 1874.
Crawfordsville Star, Montgomery County IN; March 23, 1875
Contributed by Kimberly Hancock

Doyle Wilton Yeager
August 2, 1929 -- December 5, 2017
Doyle Wilton Yeager, 88, of Elkhart, died at 6:30 am, on Tuesday, December 5, at Hubbard Hill Estates. He was born on August 2, 1929, in Colo, IA, to Florian J. and Mildred (Elder) Yeager. On November 19, 1955 in Takoma Park, MD he married Hilda Long; she died October 19, 2001. Surviving are son, Doyle Alan (Laura) Yeager of Bristol; five grandchildren, Lloyd D. Yeager of Fort Wayne, Beatrice G. Yeager, Ellianna N. Yeager, Alyvia L. Yeager, Sydney J. Yeager all of Bristol. He was preceded in death by his wife, parents, and two brothers, Wayne and Dwight Yeager. He was a member of Beulah Missionary Church and served in the Navy during the Korean War. His grandchildren were his pride and joy, and he enjoyed gardening and was a huge baseball fanatic. He retired as a Bank Auditor after 35 years. He also served as the treasurer at church. Later in life he played the clarinet in the New Horizon's Band. Visitation will be from 1:00 - 4:00 pm on Sunday, December 10 at Miller-Stewart Funeral Home, 1003 South Main Street, Middlebury, and one hour prior to the 10:00 am funeral service on Tuesday, December 12 at Hubbard Hill Estates, 28070 CR 24, Elkhart. Services will be conducted by Pastor Bill Richardson. Burial will be in Prairie Street Cemetery, Elkhart. Memorials may be given to Hubbard Hill Memory Care.
Miller-Stewart Funeral Home online obit (accessed December 5, 2017)

RICHLAND - Jake Richard "Dick" Yeager, 79, died on April 11, 2007, at the Franklin United Methodist Community. Dick was born on August 14, 1927, to Jake and Ruby Yeager, who had a farm in Richland, Indiana. He had four siblings, Norman, Jane, Gene, and Nora. At "the ripe old age of 18," Dick heard the call to go into the ministry. He and Jean Walden were married in 1947 while he was pastor at the Methodist Church in Selvin, Indiana. Dick is survived by Jean; their three children, Stephen, Kim and Tami; four grandchildren: Stephanie, Kerstin, Robert and Jacob; five great-grandchildren; and his sister, Nora Yeager. Dick served in several types of ministry for 45 years before retiring; 23 years as a pastor and 22 as an education director at both the South Indiana Conference and the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry. Much of his work focused on combating racism. He led workshops and meetings in all 50 U.S. states and in 27 countries. Upon retirement in 1994, he joined the staff of Castleton Church as a part-time director of adult education. He held this position for 10 years. In addition to his ministry, he served as the president of the Bartholomew County Mental Health Association, president of the board of education in Connecticut, Conference Director of the Board of Church and Society South Indiana conference, and various other leadership positions. Dick was visionary as a promoter of human rights and ecological responsibility. He was known to be humble, playful, gentle, humorous, and compassionate, a teacher and a family man. Services will be held at the Franklin United Methodist Community in Franklin, Indiana. Visitation, April 20, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. (Family Room), and Memorial Service, Apr. 21, 2 p.m. in the chapel. (317) 736-7185. Per Dick's request, his body will be cremated by the Columbus Crematory and his urn placed in the Asbury United Methodist columbarium.In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Castleton United Methodist Church in Indianapolis, Ind., The Franklin Methodist Community in Franklin, Ind., or CUMNS (Castleton Methodist Nursery School) (317) 849-2947. Arrangements were made by Hathaway-Myers Dignity Memorial Chapel on 1022 Pearl St. Columbus, Ind.
Courier Press, Evansville, IN; April 18, 2007

Stella "Jean" Yeager, 87, died on April 3, 2017, in Westfield, Indiana. Jean was born on March 21, 1930, in Bowling Green, KY, to Burford and Violet Walden, both school teachers. In 1947, Jean fell in love with Rev. J. Richard "Dick" Yeager, the young minister of her family's United Methodist Church (UMC). They were happily married for fifty-nine years, living in Indiana, Connecticut and Tennessee. Jean is survived by their three children: Stephen (Lona), Kim (Kathy Leising), and Tami (Morgan Kelly); six grandchildren: Stephanie, Kerstin, Robert, Jacob, Rohan, and Ty; and seven great-grandchildren. Jean was preceded in death by her loving husband, Dick; sisters, Ruth Bumpus and Anne Eastham; and brother, B.E. Walden, Jr. Jean served as a minister's wife for twenty-three years, performing many leadership roles. She also worked for the Southern Indiana UMC making artwork for regional conferences. She spent over ten years working as a preschool teacher at Castleton UMC Nursery School, and in TN. In addition to her great love of children, other interests were crafts, interior decorating, world travel, theatre, civil rights, and educational classes of various topics. Jean was known to be gentle, intuitive, thoughtful, artistic, and loving. Memorial service will be Saturday, April 8, 2017 at 2:00 pm, with visitation from 1-2 p.m., at St. Luke's United Methodist Church, 100 W. 86th Street. Per Jean's request, her urn will be placed alongside Dick's in the Asbury UMC columbarium in Columbus, IN.
Unknown source

Anna Mary Yoder
December 18, 1932 -- December 23, 2017
Anna Mary Yoder, 85, of Goshen, passed away at 11:24 pm on Saturday, December 23, at her residence as the result of a stroke that she had suffered a week ago. She was surrounded by her family after celebrating Christmas all together earlier that day. She was born on December 18, 1932 in Intercourse, PA, to Chris and Anna Mary (Fisher) Smoker. On September 3, 1960 in Intercourse, PA she married Kenneth E. Yoder, he survives. Survivors in addition to her husband are a daughter, Anita Price of Selma; three sons, Steven (Sheila) Yoder of Cedarburg, WI, Carlton (Cindy) Yoder of Middlebury, Stan Yoder of Ligonier; five grandchildren, a great granddaughter; two sisters, Beulah Martin of New Holland, PA and Alma (Clair) Groff of Lancaster, PA. She was preceded in death by her parents; two sisters, Marian Esbenshade and Lillian Yoder; two brothers, Aquila Smoker and Alvin Smoker. Anna Mary was a member of Bonneyville Mennonite Church for over 50 years, a homemaker and retired from Coachman Industries where she had been a payroll clerk. She was a talented seamstress, enjoyed photography, working with ceramics, cake decorating and watching the many Bluebirds and Hummingbirds outside her living room window. She had a love for lighthouses, especially the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse. She was known for her strong faith in her Lord Jesus and her selflessness, always placing family and friends needs before her own. Visitation will be from 2:00 - 4:00 and 6:00 - 8:00 pm on Thursday, December 28, at Miller-Stewart Funeral Home, 1003 South Main Street Middlebury. There will also be visitation from 9:00 - 9:45 am on Friday at the funeral home followed by a funeral procession leaving at 9:45 am to go to a 10:00 am graveside service at Grace Lawn Cemetery, Middlebury. A memorial service will then follow at 11:00 am at Bonneyville Mennonite Church, Bristol. Services will be conducted by Pastors Philip and Julie Bender and Marcella Hershberger. Memorials may be given to Hope Rescue Mission.
Miller-Stewart Funeral Home online obit (accessed December 24, 2017)

Brian Alan Yoder
January 4, 2017 -- January 5, 2017
Brian Alan Yoder, infant son of Mark Alan and Elsie Jean (Bontrager) Yoder of Ligonier, was born at 9:19 pm on January 4, and died at 1:29 am on Thursday, January 5, at Parkview LaGrange Hospital. Survivors in addition to his parents are five sisters, Jeanetta Fern, Alicesen Kay, Marissa Ann, Olivia Dawn and Abigail Rose Yoder and a brother, Brandon Larry Yoder all at home; grandparents, Harley & Mary Alice Yoder of Topeka, Irvin & Ruby Bontrager of Syracuse; great-grandparents, Orpha Miller of Topeka, Harvey & Lydian Fry of Ligonier and Glen & Anna Fry of Topeka. Visitation will be after 2:00 pm on Saturday January 7, at the family's residence, 960 Tinkham Lane, Lot 400, Ligonier. Funeral services will be at 10:30 am on Sunday, January 8, at the LaVern Fry residence, 8070 N. 700 W., Ligonier. Services will be conducted by Bishop Dean Miller and the home ministers. Burial will be in Southside Cemetery, Ligonier.
Miller-Stewart Funeral Home online obit (accessed January 5, 2017)

Loretta (Miller) Yoder
August 5, 1956 -- December 23, 2017
Loretta Yoder, 61, of Goshen died at 7:30 am on Saturday, December 23, at Goshen Health Hospital. She was born on August 5, 1956 in Nappanee to John H.N. and Amanda (Plank) Miller. On November 2, 1976 in Nappanee she married Mervin H. Yoder, he survives. Survivors in addition to her husband are four sons, Kenneth Eugene (LuEtta) Yoder of Goshen, John Dale (Katie) Yoder, Devon (Amy) Yoder both of Ligonier, Joseph (Lisa) Yoder of Goshen; three daughters, Kristine (Larry) Mast of Millersburg, Vonda (Leon) Yoder of Goshen, Dorene (Alvin) Schrock of Millersburg; 27 grandchildren; four brothers, Duane (Nora) Miller, John Dale (Dora) Miller both of Nappanee, Fred (Linda) Miller of Bremen, Christie (Wanda) Miller of Nappanee; three sisters, Barbara (Ferman) Wingard of Shipshewana, Susan (Marion) Eash of Nappanee, Martha (Glen) Hochstetler of Bremen. She was preceded in death by her parents. Loretta was a homemaker and member of the Old Order Amish Church. Visitation will be after 1:00 pm on Sunday, December 24, and all day Monday, December 25, at Leon Yoder residence, 64430 CR 37 Goshen. Funeral services will be at 9:30 am on Tuesday, December 26, at the same residence. Services will be conducted by the home ministers. Burial will be in Nisley Cemetery, Goshen. Miller-Stewart funeral home is in charge of arrangements.
Miller/Stewart Funeral Home online obit (accessed December 23, 2017)

Zachary Marc Yoder
December 3, 2000 -- January 13, 2018
Zachary Marc Yoder, 17, of White Pigeon, MI, died at 2:50 am, on Saturday, January 13, at the scene of an accident at 1000 W. and State Rd. 120, Shipshewana. He was born on December 3, 2000, in Topeka, to Steven D. and Lorene (Miller) Yoder. Surviving along with his parents in White Pigeon are two sisters, Dena (Delmar) Hochstetler of White Pigeon, MI, Alayna Yoder and brother, Jared Yoder both at home; grandparents, David P. and Mary Ellen Yoder of Goshen, Crist D. and Katie A. Miller of Topeka; many cousins. Zachary had been working at Grand Design. Visitation will be after 2:00 pm Tuesday, January 16 and all day Wednesday, January 17 at the family residence, 71481 Sevison Rd., White Pigeon, MI. Funeral services will be at 9:30 am on Thursday, January 18 at the Richard Schlabach residence,7885 W. 675 N., Shipshewana. Services will be conducted by Bishop Levi E. Miller and the home ministers of the Old Order Amish Church. Burial will be in Scott-Seybert Cemetery, Shipshewana.
Miller-Stewart Funeral Home online obit (accessed January 15, 2018)

Gary E. York, 78, passed away Wednesday, January 10, 2018 in Fort Wayne. Born in Avilla, IN, Gary worked as a electrician with several local companies. Surviving are his wife, Ruthann York of Fort Wayne; daughter, Kelly (Charlie) Bandelier of New Haven, IN; 2 grandchildren; and 2 great-grandchildren. Services will be held at a later date. Memorials may be made to Riley Hospital for Children or the Community Harvest Food Bank.
D.O. McComb & Sons Funeral Home online obit (accessed January 12, 2018)

Malcom K. Young, infant son of Mr. and Mrs. W. L. Young, 2019 Riedmiller avenue, passed away at the family residence at one o'clock yesterday afternoon, at the age of four months and five days. Death was due to heart disease. Surviving besides the parents is one four-year-old sister. Funeral services will be conducted from the residence, Friday afternoon at 2:30 o'clock and will be private. The Rev. Boyer will officiate. Burial in Lindenwood cemetery.
Fort Wayne Journal Gazette, Allen County, Indiana; Oct. 17, 1918
Contributed by Karin King

LIVED LONG IN ALLEN COUNTY - Mrs. Margaret Young Died Wednesday of Paralysis
Was Eighty-Eight Years Old - Death Came at Hope Hospital, Where She Had Been A Patient For Over Two Years
Mrs. Margaret Young, widow of St?? Young, and one of the early pioneers of Allen county, died Wednesday night at 9:30 o'clock of paralysis at Hope hospital, where she had been a patient for the past two and a half years. Mrs. Young had been in poor health for seven years. She was eighty-eight years of age. Five children survive her - John Young, of Walkerton, Ind., and Amos J. and Tilman C., of this city; Mrs. J. L. Desmond, of Indianapolis and Mrs. J. E. Probst, of Chicago. The remains were taken in charge by Undertakers Klaehn & Melching and will be removed today to the home of the son, Tilman C. Young, 3203 Lafayette street, where funeral services will be held Friday afternoon at 1:30 o'clock. The interment will be in Lindenwood cemetery.
Fort Wayne Journal Gazette, Allen County, Indiana; Thursday, Jan. 31, 1907
Contributed by Karin King

Marvin R. Yutzy
December 12, 1938 -- December 26, 2017
Marvin R. Yutzy, 79, of Middlebury, died at 12:23 am on Tuesday, December 26, at his residence, surrounded by his family. He was born on December 12, 1938 in Plain City, OH, to Roy E. and Katie E. (Hershberger) Yutzy. On April 25, 1963, in Goshen, he married Anna Mae Troyer; she survives. Survivors in addition to his wife are four daughters, Nora Ann Yutzy at home, Ellen Yutzy, Marietta (Paul) Mast and Leona (Marlin) Miller all of Middlebury; two sons, Elroy (Anita) Yutzy and Norman (Inez) Yutzy both of Topeka; 13 grandchildren, six great grandchildren; two sisters, Fannie Yutzy and Sarah Yutzy both of Goshen; also included are Wayne and Ruby Chupp and two children of Topeka. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother, Eli Yutzy and a stillborn brother and sister. Marvin was a member of the Old Order Amish Church, a farmer and had worked for 28 years at Coachman. Visitation will be after 2:00 pm on Tuesday December 26, and all day Wednesday December 27 at the Marlin Miller residence, 10620 CR 14, Middlebury. Funeral services will be at 9:30 am on Thursday, December 28, at the Marion Yoder residence, 10668 CR 16, Middlebury. Services will be conducted by Bishop Norman Lehman and the home ministers. Burial will be in Mast Cemetery, Middlebury.
Miller-Stewart Funeral Home online obit (accessed December 26, 2017)