Submitted by: Dan Rich

South Bend Tribune 2-21-2006

William H. Milliken

Aug. 29, 1915 - Feb. 20, 2006

William H. Milliken, 90, of Mishawaka, died Monday, February 20th, in his residence.
He was born in Crumstown, Indiana, on August 29, 1915, to Robert and Emma (Schoephlin) Milliken, who preceded him in death along with a brother, Lester, and three sisters, Daisy Lightfoot, Clarice Jones and Marie Pletcher.
He married Julia Scheibelhut on July 17, 1943, in Mishawaka, in St. Monica Catholic Church.
He served in World War II with the First Armored Division of the Army. He was employed by Studebaker and retired from South Bend Car Parts in 1980.
Bill belonged to the American Legion Post #365 of Edwardsburg, the Knights of Columbus, St. Monica Catholic Church and the Ushers Club since 1956. Bill and Julia owned and operated the Melody Drive Inn from 1956 to 1966. He was the last member of the Shanty Gang. William was the last surviving member of the 1935 Mishawaka High School State Championship Football team.
Mr. Milliken is survived by his wife of nearly 63 years, Julia; two sons, Robert (Carol) of Marshall, MI, and William P. (Christine) of Edwardsburg, MI; and four daughters, Mary Jo (Paul) Dorbin, Jean (Perry) Gish and Janet (Doug) Baldini, all of Mishawaka, and Beth (Ted) Modlin of Granger. Also surviving are 18 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren; and by a sister, Mildred Nelson of Mishawaka.
Friends may call from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. today, February 21st, in Bubb Funeral Chapel, 3910 N. Main St., and one hour prior to services in the church. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, February 22nd, in St. Monica Catholic Church, with Fr. Jeffery Largent officiating. Burial will follow at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens, Osceola. There will be a prayer service at 3:30 p.m. today in the funeral home.
Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of St. Joseph County or to St. Monica Catholic Church. Military rites will be conducted at the graveside by American Legion Post 365 of Edwardsburg, Michigan.