Submitted by: Dan Rich

Peter F. Holbert

Jan. 31, 1919 -- July 21, 2007

South Bend Tribune 7/23/2007

MISHAWAKA -- Peter F. Holbert, 88, of Mishawaka, passed away Saturday morning, July 21, 2007, in St. Joseph Regional Medical Center, Mishawaka. Pete was born January 31, 1919, in Boone County, Kentucky, a son of the late Teal and Lavena (Lucas) Holbert. He grew up in Muncie and Albany Indiana and was a graduate of Albany High School. On April 13, 1940, Pete married Frances Bratton. During World War II he served his country in the Army Air Corps. Following the service, Pete returned to the Muncie area where he learned tool and die design. He and Frances moved to South Bend in 1948 and settled in Mishawaka in 1966. Pete worked various places including Studebaker's before starting his own business, Holbert Engineering, in 1964. The company is still run by his family today. Pete was a member of Masonic Lodge #45 in South Bend and the Murat Temple of the Shriners in Indianapolis. He also belonged to the American Legion, the Civil Defense Air Corps, the Society of Automotive Engineers and was an Explorer Scout Master. Pete and Frances enjoyed spending winters on Captiva Island in Florida. He was an avid fisherman and golfer and is remembered for being a very giving person.

Pete's family was an important part of his life and they include his wife of 67 years, Frances; four sons, Jack (Sandra) Holbert of Lakeville, Patrick (Josephine) Holbert of Berrien Springs, Michigan, James (Diana) Holbert of Wakarusa and William Holbert of Mishawaka; a brother, Foster (Barbara) Holbert of Hamilton, Ohio; three sisters, Jane Reed of Parker, Indiana, Dixie (Gus) Barbaro of Florida and Nancy (Theron) Williams of Muncie; six grandchildren, Michele, Erik, William, Jonathan, Katie and Nick; and three great grandchildren, Samantha, Tyler and Wyatt. Pete was preceded in death by a great grandson, Dustin; and two brothers and four sisters.

Friends may call today (Monday) from 5 to 8 p.m. and Tuesday from Noon to 1 p.m. in Thallemer, Goethals & Wells Funeral Home, 503 W. Third Street, Mishawaka. A Masonic Service will be held Monday at 8 p.m. in the funeral home. Funeral Services will be held Tuesday at 1 p.m. in the funeral home, with Pastor Mike Fanning officiating. Burial with military honors will follow in Southlawn Cemetery, South Bend. Contributions in Pete's memory may be given to the charity of one's choice.