Submitted by: Dan Rich

Edwin J. Kerschner

Dec. 12, 1923 - Dec. 2, 2002

South Bend Tribune 12/4/2002

Edwin J. Kerschner, 78, of South Bend, Ind., died following an illness on Monday morning, Dec. 2, in his home. Mr. Kerschner was born in South Bend on Dec. 12, 1923, to Feral and Katherine (Waterfall) Kerschner. He attended Lincoln School, graduating from Riley High School in 1942.

On Dec. 21, 1943, he married June Hartline of Niles, Mich., at Ridgedale Presbyterian Church in South Bend. She survives. He is also survived by two daughters, Kristina O'Chap and Sara Glueckert, both of South Bend; three granddaughters, Stephanie O'Chap of Atlanta, Ga., and Erin and Jennifer Glueckert, both of South Bend; and by a sister, Karol Priddy (Thomas) of Naperville, Ill.

He was preceded in death by a grandson, Thomas J. O'Chap; and by a son-in-law, Thomas E. O'Chap.

Mr. Kerschner entered the armed service in January 1943 and was discharged October 1945. He was a 1st Class Gunners Mate in the Navy during World War II. He sailed a short time as a gunner on a merchant ship in the Atlantic, concluding his service as a gunner on the PCS 1390 in the Pacific.

Mr. Kerschner was a builder and cabinet maker for 45 years, employed in his own business, Kerschner Home Building. He was a charter member of the German Township Lions Club, and was also a member of Northwest Methodist Church. He was always interested in all the activities of his family, attending many school and sporting events. He enjoyed traveling with his wife, June, with Hawaii, Alaska and Europe being special locations. He loved to work with wood, and spent many happy hours in his workshop making furniture. He was a fine husband, father, grandfather and friend, and he will be greatly missed.

Funeral services will be held at 1:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 5, in the Welsheimer Funeral Home, 521 N. William Street. Friends may call one hour before services. Memorial contributions may be made to the Homeless Center or to the agency of donor's choice.