Submitted by: Dan Rich

Lorraine G. Richey

Jan. 6, 1925 - Nov. 16, 2001

South Bend Tribune 11/19/2001

Lorraine G. "Lori" Richey passed away in her home on Friday, November 16, 2001. Lorraine was born January 6, 1925, in South Bend to the union of Val and Mary (Mautz) Hepler.

Lorraine Hepler graduated from Riley High School in 1942. After graduation she worked for the South Bend Lathe Works and later for her father who owned the Silver Tower Restaurant in South Bend. She was later on the staff of Dr. James Farner.

As Lorraine Hepler she was married to William J. Richey on December 21, 1946. Mrs. Richey was very proud of her husband, a World War II veteran. After their marriage she worked with her husband in the family business, Richey Radiator Service in South Bend.

Lorraine was an avid bowler and was league secretary for several years at the South Bend Elks Lodge. She enjoyed the challenge of crossword puzzles and many crafts. Mrs. Richey read from a variety of books and periodicals. Most of all, she was proud of her family and home where everyone felt her hospitality and love. She enjoyed playing Euchre, poker and trips to "the Boat". She enjoyed gardening and was very proud of her "Richey tomatoes".

Mrs. Richey is survived by two daughters, Jill A. Richey of South Bend and Barbara L. (Jay) Parker of Mishawaka. Two granddaughters, Tara A. (Craig) Merkel of Lafayette, Indiana, and Lindsey E. VanBelleghem of South Bend. Mrs. Richey felt very blessed by having two great-grandchildren, Rebecca L. Merkel and Brock William Merkel, both of Lafayette, IN. Also surviving are her sister, Mary Julia "Julie" (Bob) Hevel of South Bend and brother, Robert (Helen) Helper of Diamond Lake, Michigan, along with many nieces and nephews. Mrs. Richey was a caring loving woman and will be greatly missed by all who knew her.

Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. Tuesday, November 20, 2001, in the Welsheimer North Funeral Home, 17033 Cleveland Road, where friends may call two hours prior to services.

Burial will be in Highland Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association or the Humane Society of South Bend. (nf)