Submitte by: Dan Rich

Ferdinand Vern Goethals

Dec. 30, 1915 -- Nov. 17, 2003

South Bend Tribune 11/19/2003

Ferdinand "Vern" Goethals, 87, of W. 10th Street, Mishawaka, formerly of Rockne Drive in South Bend, IN, passed away Monday, November 17, in Saint Joseph Regional Medical Center, Mishawaka, after an illness.

Vern was born on December 30, 1915, in Walkerton, IN, as the son of the late Theophiel and Mary (Richards) Goethals.

On April 29, 1940, in South Bend, he married the former Elsie Celichowski, who preceded him in death on July 8, 1996.

Vern is survived by two sons, Paul Goethals of Mishawaka and Larry (Laurie) Goethals of Valparaiso, IN; and by two grandchildren, Jake P. and Jessica L. Goethals.

Vern was a Machinist for Bendix in South Bend for 35 years before retiring in 1976. He was a member of Bendix Retirees and the BK Club (Wednesday Belgian) Bowlers. He was a former member of Sacred Heart of Jesus Church in Lakeville, IN. Vern was a wonderful loving father, grandfather and friend whose friendly smile and good nature will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Friends may call from 3 to 8 p.m. Thursday, November 20, in Hahn Funeral Home, 505 W. 8th Street, Mishawaka.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 a.m. Friday in St. Bavo Catholic Church, 511 W. 7th Street, Mishawaka. Private burial will take place.

Memorial contributions may be made in Vern's name to Hospice of St. Joseph County, 111 Sunnybrook Court, South Bend, IN 46637-3437. (nf)