PERU TRIBUNE OBITUARIES


Janet G. Bammerlin, 71


Janet G. Bammerlin, 71, Roann, passed away at 9 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 30, 2004 at Wabash Community Hospital, Wabash. She died in the emergency room, and had been in failing health for two years.

She was born Nov. 3, 1932 in Miami County to Vera H. Harrison and Earl E. Butt. She graduated from Peru High School in 1950, and married Dean Bammerlin Nov. 15, 1953 in Peru. He survives.

Bammerlin was a homemaker, and a member of the Olive Branch Church of God, Roann, Perry Do Rite Club, Red Hat Society and Bell Begus Square Dancing Club.

Survivors besides her husband include two daughters, Susan Rensberger, Akron, and Karen Draper and husband Doug, Roann; a son, Jay Bammerlin, Roann; three grandchildren, Lori Lafollette, Sara Hampton and Alan Rensberger; four great-grandchildren; and two brothers, Keith Butt and wife Stella, Fort Wayne, and Lyle Butt and wife LaVada, Akron.

The funeral will be at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday at Hartzler Funeral Home, Akron, with the Rev. Lowell Burrus and the Rev. Lawrence See officiating. Burial will be in Akron Cemetery, Akron. Visitation will be from 3 to 8 p.m. today at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to Olive Branch Church of God, Roann, or the Roann Fire Department First Responders.
1 November 2004

Betty Jean Jackson, 70


Betty Jean Jackson, 70, passed away on Monday, December 22, 2003, following an automobile accident.

She was born May 15, 1933, in Buchanan, Tenn., the daughter of the late Clarence and Patti Bayne Chilcutt. On January 27, 1951, she married Doan Jackson, and he survives. She was a member of the North Jackson Church of Christ, Jackson, Tenn. She was a homemaker, enjoyed her hobbies of raising fish, orchids, and roses, as well as spending time fishing.

Survivors include her husband, Doan Jackson, with whom she enjoyed fifty-three wonderful years of marriage; one son, Alan D. Jackson and wife Jackie, Henderson, Tenn.; one daughter, Sandra J. Venable and husband Michael, Hendersonville, Tenn.; two brothers, George F. Chilcutt, Royal Oak, Mich., and Robert C. Chilcutt, Peru; two sisters, Elaine Brake, Carthage, Tenn., and Mary Arwood, Peru; six grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

Pallbearers to serve will be Paul Norris, Doug Hays, Jimmy Johnson, David Temple, Allen Verell and Joe Pickler.

Funeral services will be at 2 p.m., Wednesday, December 24, 2003, from the chapel of Arrington Funeral Directors, with Kelby Smith and David Powell, ministers officiating. The family will be receiving friends on Wednesday, 12-2 p.m., at the funeral home. The family has requested that memorials be directed to West Tennessee Children's Home, 524 Luray Avenue, Henderson, TN 38340.
26 December 2003

Geneva R. "Jean" Hippensteel, 92


Geneva R. "Jean" Hippensteel, 92, Kokomo, passed away Monday, Dec. 22 at 8:35 p.m., at Manor Care Health Services.

She was born Sept. 1, 1911 in Peru to Arthur Thomas and Carrie May (Miller) Rankin Jr.

She married Ross W. Hippensteel Sept. 16, 1934. They were married over 62 years, and he preceded her in death Apr. 7, 1997.

Hippensteel was a homemaker, and did substitute teaching and homebound teaching. She was an accomplished artist and an excellent seamstress.

She was a 1929 graduate of Peru High School, and attended Blackburn College in Carlinville, Illinois for two years. She received her bachelor's degree in elementary education from Manchester College in 1934, and did post graduate work at Indiana University-Kokomo.

She was a member of the First Congregational Christian United Church of Christ, Kokomo Art Association, Golfettes Golf League, Rice's Golf League, bowling leagues, Phi Chi Epsilon Sorority and Kokomo's Home Extension Club. She loved to play golf and did so until her 80s. She also enjoyed bowling.

Survivors include: two sons, Benjamin Hippensteel and wife Doris, Kokomo, and David Hippensteel and wife Martha, Carmel; two grandchildren, Gary Hippensteel and wife Renee, Fairland, and Beth Ann Hippensteel, Seymour; two step great grandchildren, Susan Wilson and Tony Wilson; two sisters-in-law and one brother-in-law, Mildred Kugler, Sweeter and Ruth Bradshaw and her husband George, Daytona Beach, Fla.; and several cousins, nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, sisters Berneice Maus and Helen Stenberg, and brother Ralph Rankin.

Funeral services will be held Monday, Dec. 29 at 2 p.m. at the First Congregational Christian United Church of Christ in Kokomo, with Rev. Scott Keehn officiating. Burial will follow at Sunset Memory Gardens.

Friends may call at the church Monday from noon to 2 p.m. Jeff Stout of Stout and Son Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association and the Kokomo Art Association.
27 December 2003

Juanita M. Lease, 72


Juanita M. Lease, 72, Andrews, passed away on Tuesday, December 23, 2003, at 1:20 a.m., at Parkview Hospital, Fort Wayne.

She was born on June 12, 1931, in Wabash, to Floyd and Mabel Hiers McKinney, Sr. On October 7, 1950, in Huntington, she married George S. Lease, and he survives.

Mrs. Lease retired in 1997 as a self-employed tax preparer, 1979-1997, and is also the former owner of Juanita's Bridal Shop, Huntington. She was the former Trustee of Dallas Township, Huntington County, and had published a family tree book. She was a member of AARP and the Genealogy Society of Miami County.

Survivors include her husband of 53 years, George S. Lease, Andrews; her mother, Mabel McKinney, Huntington; two sons, William A. Lease, Andrews, and James J. Lease, Huntington; two daughters, Sherry M. Vanover and husband Bob, Huntington, and Joan K. Lease-Clark and husband Charles, Kendallville; nine grandchildren; and 16 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by two brothers, Floyd and Robert McKinney; and

two sisters, Georgia and Helen McKinney.

A memorial service will be held at Bailey-Love Mortuary, 35 West Park Drive, Huntington, on Friday, December 26, at 10 a.m., with the Reverend Jerry Felts officiating. Burial will be in Lancaster Cemetery, Huntington County. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Diabetes Association in care of the Bailey-Love Mortuary, 35 West Park Drive, Huntington IN 46750.
26 December 2003

Harriett M. Crane, 89


Harriett M. Crane, 89, South Bend, passed away Tuesday, Dec. 23, 2003 at 1:04 p.m. at the St. Joseph Regional Medical Center, South Bend.

She was born Oct. 31, 1914 in Peru to Joseph and Mary (Wepler) Shidler, and has resided in the South Bend area since 1942.

Crane also resided for 16 years in North Manchester, where she served as the manager of Harvey’s Dime Store.

She married Robert L. Crane on June 21, 1935 in Peru.

Crane was a member of St. Monica’s Catholic Church, Mishawaka, and the Rosary Society of the church.

She was preceded in death by her parents, and one daughter, Joyce Larson.

Crane is survived by one daughter, Patricia Burns, South Bend; three sons, Jack L. Crane and wife Vivian, Noblesville, William D. Crane and wife Carole, Mishawaka, and Bobby G. Crane and wife Roberta, Lucerne; 25 grandchildren; 51 great-grandchildren; nine great-great grandchildren; and one brother, Joseph Shidler, Lakeland, Fla.

A Mass Christian burial will be Saturday, Dec. 27, 2003 at 8 a.m. at St. Monica’s Catholic Church, Mishawaka, with Reverend James Stoyle officiating.

Graveside services and burial will follow at Riverview Cemetery, South Bend.

Visitation will be Friday, Dec. 26, 2003 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Palmer Funeral Home, South Bend.

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, Mishawaka, in the name of Harriett M. Crane.
26 December 2003

Credythnelle Williamson, 85


Credythnelle Williamson, 85, formerly of Roann, passed away Tuesday, Dec. 23, 2003, at 8:35 p.m., at Wildwood Healthcare Center in Indianapolis.

She was born January 28, 1918 in Peru to James LeRoy and Amy Zella (Poulson) Chamness. She was a 1936 graduate of Chippewa High School.

Williamson was a homemaker who also worked at Danner's in Wabash for 19 years. Her husband Mitchell Williamson, who preceded her in death June 29, 1991, owned and operated the Roann Drug Store and Wee Willies Ceramic Shop.

The two were married November 7, 1937.

Survivors include one son, David Williamson, Indianapolis; two daughters, Nancy Wood and husband Daniel, Sparta, Ga., and Carolyn Terrell and husband Daniel, Warsaw; 10 grandchildren; 10 great grandchildren; and two step great grandchildren.

In addition to her husband, Williamson was preceded in death by her parents, one daughter, Phyllis Joy, and one great grandson.

Funeral services will be Monday, Dec. 29, at 10 a.m. at the McDonald Funeral Home, Eddington Chapel 231 Falls Ave., in Wabash. Burial will be at Falls Cemetery in Wabash.

Friends may call at McDonald Funeral Home Sunday, Dec. 28, from 2 to 6 p.m. Memorial contributions can be made to the American Heart Association.
27 December 2003

Georgia L. Bell, 84

Georgia Bell
Georgia L. Bell, 84, Peru, passed away Tuesday, Dec. 23, 2003 at 5:42 p.m., at Dukes Memorial Hospital following an extended illness.

She was born June 19, 1919 in Peru to Horace and Mina (Young) Bell.

A homemaker, Bell attended the Nazarene Church in Peru.

Survivors include sister Esther Jones, Peru.

She was preceded in death by her parents, a brother, Leonard Bell, and four sisters: Dorothy Bell, Nancy Leonard, Florence Sholty and Alice Bell.

Funeral services will be 1 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 30 2003 at Flowers-Leedy Funeral Home, with Pastor Jim Thomas officiating. Burial will be at Miami County's Santa Fe Cemetery.

Friends may call at the funeral home on Tuesday, Dec. 30, 2003 from 11 a.m. until the time of service.
29 December 2003

Dorothy Jean Dershem, 82


Dorothy Jean Dersham, 82, formerly of Roann, passed away Tuesday, dec. 23, 2003 at 2:20 p.m. at the San Pedro Pavilion, San Pedro, Calif.

Dersham was born Jan. 16, 1921 to Dwight DuBois and jean W. Spotts in Paw Paw Township.

She married Dr. George E. Dersham in Fort Wayne on Oct. 1, 1944.

Dr. Dersham passed away in 1988.

She was an OB nurse for 23 years at the Wabash County Hospital prior to retiring in 1986.

Dersham was a member of the Roann United Methodist Church, the United Methodist Women, the Roann Matrons Club, and the Hugenot Society.

She was a former member of the Roann Order of the Eastern Star.

Dersham resided in Roann until 1992. She then moved to Carmel for six years prior to relocating to California.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, and two brothers.

Dersham is survived by two daughters, Margaret “Peg” Durrer and husband John, Carmel, and Rosemary Cardona, San pedro; two granddaughters, Dianne Hood and husband Steven, Indianapolis, and Christine McMullen, Indianapolis; one grandson, Bradley Durrer and wife Stephanie, Muncie; two sisters, Lillian Starr, Grapevine, Tex., and Helen Zivoder, Delaware, Oh.; and six great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be conducted Wednesday, Dec. 31, 2003 at 2 p.m. at Grandstaff-Hentgen Chapel, Roann, with Reverend Rick Stone officiating.

Burial will be at the Roann Community Cemetery.

Visitation will be conducted Wednesday, Dec. 31, 2003 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the chapel.
29 December 2003

The loss of three Miami County soldiers who were serving in the Middle East is the top Tribune story of 2003.

The following is a summation of the top stories of the past year.

Miami County lost three residents during Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2003. Spc. Brian Clemens, 19, Pvt. Robert McKinley, 23, and Sgt. Jarrod Black, 26 each perished.

Spc. Clemens, a 2001 Maconaquah graduate, was serving in the C-Company, 1-293rd Infantry unit of the National Guard based in Fort Wayne.

Clemens was killed Thursday, Feb. 6, 2003 in Kuwait when the high-mobility multipurpose-wheeled vehicle rolled over. Four other soldiers were injured in the accident.

The former Eagle Scout had been deployed two months earlier.

Clemens was the son of Terry and Kathy McCray.

Following a funeral service conducted in a nearly-filled Maconaquah High School Auditorium, Clemens was laid to rest in Springdale Cemetery in Bunker Hill.

Pvt. McKinley, a 1998 Peru graduate, suffered heat stroke while serving in Iraq, and later passed away in Germany on July 7, 2003.

The son of Debra Feller McKinley had served in the military for eight months.

During the funeral service, McKinley was awarded a Bronze Star.

McKinley served as scout and point man for the 5th Special Forces of the Army, and was part of the 101st Airborne Division, Air Assault Company out of Fort Campbell, Ky.

Black was killed in action Dec. 12, 2003 when a convoy he was in had a roadside bomb explode by his truck.

The Peru native was the son of Bill and Jane Black.

Black, who was the father of two sons, was killed in the city of Ramadi, about an hour outside of Baghdad.

Black’s funeral service attracted a massive crowd to the United Street methodist Church in Peru, prior to his burial at Mount Hope Cemetery
30 December 2003

John Nixon, 74

April 4, 2003 John Nixon, 74, passed away.

Nixon, an influential community leader throughout Miami County, died at his home.

Mr. Nixon was the Chief Executive Officer of Nixon Newspapers, Inc., which owned the Tribune, for 23 years. Nixon sold the Tribune to Paxton media Group, Inc. in 1998. He was awarded dozens of awards, including the Sagamore of the Wabash, for his newspaper work and civic involvement.
30 December 2003

John Arthur Doty, 75

John Arthur Doty, 75, Logansport, passed away Wednesday, Dec. 24, 2003, at Logansport Memorial Hospital.

He was born Feb. 11, 1928 in Peru to Sampson and Helen (Hanson) Doty. He was employed as a truck driver for Courier-Newsom Trucking, Logansport, for several years.

Survivors include two sons, Tom Doty and Ron Doty, Logansport; three daughters, Sharon Bean, Morgantown, W.V., Cheryl Zellers, Logansport and Donna Cooke, Logansport; five grandchildren; and several great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by two brothers, Nelson Doty and Jim Doty.

Funeral services with military rites will be held at 10 a.m. Tuesday at Mount Hope Cemetery. Burial will be in Veterans Circle, Mount Hope Cemetery.

There will be no visitation.
27 December 2003

Mary L. Fouts, 53

Mary L. Fouts
Mary L. Fouts, 53, Peru, passed away Wednesday, December 24 at 1:13 p.m. at Florida Hospital in Flagler, Florida.

She was born May 26, 1950 in Peru to Harold "Jake" and Gladys (Lytle) Graf. She married Ricci L. Fouts June 9, 1968.

Fouts lived in Peru all her life, and spent several years working in the food service department at North Miami High School. She also worked as a sales supervisor representative for Kraft Foods.

Survivors include her husband; sister Kathy Daine, Mason, Oh.; son Michael Fouts and his wife Donna, Somerset; daughter Kim Byrum and her husband Donald, Peru; and five grandchildren, Sara, Amanda, Aaron, Dawn and Damin.

She was preceded in death by her parents and two sisters, Janet Sue and Georgiana.

Funeral services will be at 11 a.m., Monday, Dec. 29, at Zion Chapel Church, with Pastor Rod Correll officiating. Burial will be at Santa Fe Cemetery in Miami County.

Friends may call Sunday from 2 to 8 p.m. at Flowers-Leedy Funeral Home.
27 December 2003

Floyd D. ‘Bud’ Green, 94


Floyd D. ‘Bud’ Green, 94, Twelve Mile, passed away Thursday, Nov. 27, 2003 at Miller’s Merry Manor, Logansport.

Green was born August 10, 1909 in Armstrong, Ill. to Fred C. Green and Ada E. (Wernigk) Green.

He married Guinevere A. McGuire April 25, 1937 at the Methodist Parsonage in Twelve Mile.

He is survived by his wife; one son, Robert N. Green, Twelve Mile; two sisters, Martha McHenry, Indianapolis, and Maxine Hegel, Wabash.

Green, who graduated from Twelve Mile High School in 1929, was a member of the Twelve Mile United Methodist Church.

He was a retired farmer, Adams Township School bus driver, and Cass County Highway Department employee.

Green was a charter member of the Twelve Mile Fire Department and past Master of the Twelve Mile Masonic Lodge, as well as a 50-year member of the Royal Center Masonic Lodge.

He also served as the Adams Township Republican precinct committeeman for 16 years and was a member of the Caston School Holding Corporation in its formation.

Green was preceded in death by his parents; one son, Larry Alan Green; two sisters, Helen Bookwalter, and Rosa A. Green.

Funeral services will be conducted Sunday, Nov. 30, 2003 at 2 p.m. at the McClain Funeral Home, Denver, with Pastor Bruce Russell officiating.

Visitation is from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 29, 2003 at the funeral home.

Memorials may be sent to the Twelve Mile Fire Department, Twelve Mile Responders, and/or the Twelve Mile United Methodist Church.
28 November 2003

William R. O'Brian


William R. O'Brian, 76, Michigan, passed away Thursday, Dec. 25, 2003 at home under the care of his family and Hospice Care of Southwest Michigan.

Bill was the middle child to William C. and Doris (Basinger) O'Brian. He was born May 4, 1927 in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

O’Brian will be forever remembered for his love of his family. He was a man of quick wit and laughter. He enjoyed taking his wife to area parks, and even had a special bench at Prairie View that had the O'Brian name on it.

He leaves a legacy of laughter with his three boys, and times spent going to baseball games. He was a sports fan, even if it meant loving the Tigers, Lions and the Chicago Cubs.

He was an active member of the Vicksburg Community. He was a member of the Lions Club, Vicksburg Library Board, Safe Kids Committee, United Way and Rotary Showboat. He was also a member of the Scotts United Methodist Church, and a founding member of the Unitarian Universalist Church of Southwest Michigan.

He is survived by his wife of 18 years, Kristi, of Vicksburg; three sons William Russell O'Brian and wife Kathie, Portage, Matthew Scott O'Brian and wife Joy, Hamilton, Mich., and Marc Stephan O'Brian South Lyon; two grandchildren, Erin and Allison O'Brian; his brother John O'Brian of Venice, Fla.; his sister Mary and her husband Rev. Robert Clark of Peru; three brothers-in-law, Greg Sinon and his wife Mary Ellen of Dayton, Md., Brent Sinon and his wife Linda, Galesburg and Tim Riggs, Clearmont, Fla.; and many nieces and nephews.

Bill's Celebration of Life service will be on Monday, Dec. 29 at 11 a.m. at the Lifestory Funeral Homes Rupert, Durham, Marshall and Gren Vicksburg Chapel.

The family will receive friends at the funeral home Sunday from 3 to 5 p.m.

Friends are invited to visit Bill's personal webpage at www.lifestorynet.com where you can read his lifestory, share a memory, send a flower and make a memorial contribution to the Kalamazoo County Parks Dept. or a church of your choice.
December 2003

Coltin Michael Flood, infant


Coltin Michael Flood, infant, Tennessee, passed away Thursday, Dec. 25, 2003, at Centennial Medical Center in Nashville, Tenn.

He was born at that same facility the previous day to Timothy Wayne and Casey Erin (Jones) Flood. He lived for 11 hours and 35 minutes.

Survivors include his parents; maternal grandmother Kathy Jones, Denver, and grandfather Kent Jones, Mentone; paternal grandmother Sheila Gamble, Paris, Tennessee; brother Hayden Flood; and sisters Caytlin Flood and Hannah Flood.

Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 31, 2003 at Flowers-Leedy Funeral Home, with Reverend Ian Nacy officiating. Burial will be at Greenlawn Cemetery in Mexico.

Friends may call at the funeral home from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday, dec. 30, 2003.
December 2003

Margaret Schultz, 72


Margaret Schultz, 72, Peru, passed away Friday, Oct. 31, 2003 at 11:35 p.m. at St. Vincent Hospital in Indianapolis.

She was born Aug. 4, 1931 to Joseph and Ellen (Stone) Snay in Mt. Clemens, Mich. Mrs. Schultz married John L. Schulz Sept. 27, 1949. He preceded his wife in death March 24, 1998.

Mrs. Schultz was a homemaker and a member of the St. John’s Lutheran Church.

She is survived by six daughters, Cheryl and husband Richard Lancaster, Peru, Patricia and husband Jay Cannon, Peru, Wilma Schultz, Peru, Donna and husband Larry Long, Wichita, Kan., JoEllen Schultz, Wabash, Marlene and husband John Coots, Wabash, and one son, John Schultz and wife Mary, Rochester.

Mrs. Schultz is also survived by five brothers Thomas Snay, Logansport, Gilbert Snay, Logansport, Jim Snay, Logansport, Patrick Snay, Logansport, Gerald Snay, Florida, five sisters, Florence Rush, Logansport, Ellen Zeider, Logansport, Judith Hizer, Logansport, Ruth Jackson and Joan Parsons, both of Mt. Clemens, 20 grandchildren and 28 great-grandchildren.

Aside from her husband, mrs. Schultz was preceded in death by her parents, three brothers (John Snay, William Snay, and Richard Snay) and two grandchildren.

Friends may call from 4 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 4 at Flowers-Leedy Funeral Home, with the funeral being conducted Wednesday, Nov. 5 at 11 a.m. at St. John’s Lutheran Church with Pastor William Barlow officiating.

The burial will be at Lutheran Cemetery in Peru.
3 November 2003

Marie O. Roark, 82


Marie O. Roark, 82, Peru, passed away Friday, Nov. 7, 2003 at 3:50 p.m. at Dukes Continuing Care, Peru.

Mrs. Roark was born Jan. 31, 1921 in Perry, Ark., to Thomas and Rebecca (Pope) Martin. In 1936 Marie married William “Dock” Roark, and he preceded her in death on Sept. 2, 1969.

She was retired from General Tire in Wabash.

Survivors include one daughter, Bonnie K. Gehring and husband Stephen, Peru; one son, William T. Roark, Peru; four grandchildren, Jessica Gunderson, Justin Akard, Wayne Hughes and Mike Aulds; three great-grandchildren, Josh Aulds, Jake Aulds and Jordan Edwards; one great-great-grandchild, Cole Aulds; and one sister, Sue Cossey, Hamburg, Ark.

She was preceded in death by her husband, her parents, one daughter, two sons, three brothers and a sister.

Funeral services were conducted Tuesday, Nov. 11, 2003 at 1 p.m. at Flowers-Leedy Funeral Home, with Pastor Tom Robbins officiating. Interment was at Mount Hope Cemetery.
14 November 2003

Donald F. Kesler, Jr., 63


Donald F. Kesler, Jr., 63, Logansport, passed away Friday, Nov. 21, 2003 at 9 a.m. at Logansport Memorial Hospital.

Kesler was born Nov. 19, 1960 in Mishawaka to Donald F. Kesler, Sr. and Claribel (Klinsick) Kesler.

He was the co-owner of Logan’s Port of Travel business in Logansport, as well as the former owner of the B & K West Root Beer stand in Logansport.

The 1959 graduate of Logansport High School was a member of the Logansport Moose Lodge and enjoyed being around his grandchildren. He also had a special love for his dog, Murphy.

He married Karen S. (Richter) Kesler on August 28, 1991.

Kesler was preceded in death by his mother, and survived by his father; wife; two daughters, Keila Howard and husband Kenny, Dundee, N.Y., Kelly Widner and husband Tim, Monticello; two sons, Randy Kesler, Logansport, Tim Kesler and wife Emma, Logansport; two brothers, Keith Kesler and wife Jayne, Peru, Jeff Kesler and wife Becky, Logansport; two sisters, Phyllis Maw and husband Charles, Logansport, Marsha Mays and husband John, Hot Springs, Ark.; seven grandchildren, Brandon, Brittany, Tyler, Cody, Alexis, Griffin, and Devin.

Funeral services will be conducted Monday, Nov. 24, 2003 at Marocco Funeral Chapel, Logansport at 10 a.m. with Reverend Scott Ellison officiating.

Burial will be at Mount Hope Cemetery, Logansport.

Memorial contributions can be made to the American Cancer Society, Cass County Unit, 6273 E. State Road 218, Walton, Ind. 46994.
24 November 2003

Terry G. Faine


Terry Gene Faine, 50

Terry Gene ‘Big T’ Faine, 50, Hartford City, passed away Friday, Dec. 5, 2003 at 6:30 p.m. at his residence.

Faine was born Jan. 19, 1953 in New Castle to George Robert Faine and Loretta F. Hughes.

Ms. Hughes survives her son in Hartford City.

He married Rochelle Anne (Gallien) Faine Sept. 16, 1988 in Muncie.

Faine had previously been married to Norma R. (Webb) Faine, Peru, who survives, from July 21, 1973 to Nov. 1, 1983.

Faine, who graduated from Peru High School in 1972, was retired on disability from the railroad and a former truck driver.

He was an avid Indiana University basketball fan, and loved hunting, fishing, and camping. Faine also collected die-cast autos and state coins.

He was a member of the Full Gospel Lighthouse Tabernacle Church, Dunkirk, as well as the Hartford City AMVETS.

Faine was preceded in death by his father, and one grandchild, Morgan P. Faine.

He is survived by his two daughters, Ina L. Turner, Peru, and Michelle L. Faine, Peru; one son, Terry Gene Faine II, Lucerne; four grandchildren, Kelsey M. Turner, Dakota M. Turner, Mackenzie M. Faine, and Ashley N. Faine; two sisters, Jewel A. Binegar and husband Lennie, Hartford City, and Cynthia L. Lytle and husband Jayson, Hartford City; three brothers, Robert A. Faine and wife Brenda, Columbus, Miss., Howard L. Faine and wife Sung, Hartford City, Brian R. Lennon and wife Betty, Tenn.; several nieces and nephews.

The funeral service will be conducted Tuesday, Dec. 9, 2003 at Keplinger Funeral Home, Hartford City at 2 p.m. with the Reverends Bobby Thomas and Steve Alberts officiating.

Visitation will be at the funeral home Monday, Dec. 8, 2003 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. and Tuesday, Dec. 9, 2003 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Memorial contributions can be made to The American Diabetes Association, Indianapolis.

His cremains will be scattered over Lookout Mountain near Chattanooga, Tenn.
8 December 2003

Dorwin "DC" Myers, 83


Dorwin "DC" Myers, 83, Kokomo, passed away Friday, Dec. 26 at 3:05 a.m. at Century Villa Health Care Center in Greentown.

He was born Jan. 9, 1920 in Miami County to Paul J. and Lona (Shrock) Myers. He married Pauline (Troyer) Myers Feb. 13, 1944 at Howard-Miami Mennonite Church.

Myers was an elementary school teacher at Champagne County, Illinois from 1941-42, Shipshewana from 1947-48, Howard County from 1948 to 1953, and Kokomo Roosevelt Elementary from 1953-1982. He was a 1948 graduate of Goshen College, and received his master's degree from Indiana University in 1962.

He was a member of the Howard-Miami Mennonite Church, and was also a former member of the Goshen College Alumni Board of Directors. He was a charter member of the board of directors for the Menno Benevolent Association, which was instrumental in establishing Friendship Haven of Kokomo. He was active in the Howard County Chapter of Habitat for Humanity and the Indiana-Michigan Mennonite Conference. He was a member of the Indiana and Howard County Retired Teacher's Association.

He was an active gardener, an avid reader, and enjoyed music and time with grandchildren.

Survivors include his wife; daughters Vada Saffer and husband Keith, Flagler, Colo., Susan Newton and husband Richard, Newport, N.C. and Carolyn Williams, Kokomo; daughter-in-law Elsie Myers Horner and husband Donald, Kokomo; sister Evonna King, Goshen; grandchildren Ronda Peeples and husband Bill, Melinda Saffer, David Saffer, Karla Myers, Hannah Myers, Eric Meyers, Sarah Newton and Daniel Newton; two great-grandchildren, four step grandchildren and 12 step great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by son Dennis, brother Paul Dale Myers and grandson Darren Newton.

Funeral services will be at 10:30 a.m. Monday, Dec. 29 at the Howard-Miami Mennonite Church, with pastors Randy Detweiler and Lee Miller officiating. There will also be a graveside service 9:30 a.m. Monday at Mast Cemetery. Friends may call from 2 to 6 p.m. Sunday at that church. Arrangements are being made by Laird Funeral Home.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Kokomo Habitat for Humanity or to the Amigo Centre of the Mennonite Church.
27 December 2003

Howard R. Bruck, 87


Howard R. Bruck, 87, Indianapolis, passed away Friday, Dec. 26, 2003, at 8:40 p.m., at Sycamore Village Health Care Center in Kokomo.

He was born Nov. 3, 1916 in Peru to Lawrence and Lillie Mae (Helvie) Bruck. He graduated from Peru High School in 1936.

He married Delores Eileen (Snyder) Bruck July 5, 1941. She preceded him in death Apr. 6, 1969. He later married Virginia Spangler on May 29, 1970, and she preceded him in death on Apr. 21, 1983.

Bruck was a former employee of the Miami County Highway Department. Bruck was also a veteran of the United States Army, and fought in World War II. His decorations include the Combat Infantry Badge, the American Theater Ribbon, the European African Middle Eastern Theater Ribbon with three bronze service stars, the Good Conduct Medal and the World War II Victory Medal.

Survivors include two daughters, Sharon Bruck, Peru and Nancy Bruck, Kokomo; four grandchildren, Theresa Hopwood, Rhiannon Bruck, Stephanie Kinnunen and Darielle Bruck; and seven great-grandchildren, Stephanie Gravos, Kerissa Kinnunen, Gabrielle Perry, Aaiyden Hayes, Kierea Wood, Kami Kinnunen and Landon Bruck.

Bruck was preceded in death by brothers Harold, Elmer and Edwin and sisters Irene, Charolette, Donnela, Ruby and Mable.

Military graveside services will be Wednesday, Dec. 31 at Mt. Hope Cemetery in Peru. Services will be overseen by the Miami County VFW Post 2067 and the Peru American Legion Glen Owens Post 14.

Arrangements are being made by Eikenberry-Eddy Funeral Home. There will be no visitation.
29 December 2003

Fern Zabst, 93


Fern Zabst, 93, Rochester, passed away Saturday, Nov. 1, 2003 at 6:30 a.m. at Howard Community Hospital in Kokomo.

She was born Oct. 17, 1910 in Logansport to Harry and Glennie (York) Golden.

She was married to Eldon E. Zabst Aug. 16, 1941 in Fulton. Mr. Zabst preceded his wife in death on July 28, 1992.

Mrs. Zabst had been an employee at the former H.W. Gossard Company in Logansport.

Survivors include one daughter Elaine Hoglund and husband Jim, Rochester, one son, Jerry and his wife Carol Zabst, Kokomo, grandchildren Laura Summerfield, Noblesville, Bradley Zabst, Peru, Janelle Zabst, Kokomo, Chris Hoglund, Rochester Hills, Mich., great-granddaughter Abbey Summerfield, and sister Goldie Bowman, Logansport.

She was preceded in death by four sisters and one brother.

Funeral services will be conducted at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 4 at Zimmerman Brothers Funeral Home, Rochester, with Rev. junior Bose officiating. Friends may call from 6 to 8 p.m. Monday and 9 to 11 a.m. Tuesday at the funeral home. Burial will be at the Fulton Cemetery in Fulton.
3 November 2003

Evelyn Irene Laughman, 90


Evelyn Irene Laughman, 90, Wabash, passed away Saturday, Nov. 29, 2003 at 5 a.m.

Laughman was born in Akron, May 29, 1913 to James Kamp and Eunice (Shireman) Kamp.

The homemaker was married Oct. 4, 1932 to Charles Swihart, who passed away Dec. 7, 1977.

Laughman married Cecil Laughman May 20, 1985. Mr. Laughman survives.

She is also survived by one son, George Swihart and wife Billie Jo, Rochester; three daughters, Janet Strevy and husband Paul, North Manchester, Joyce Hudson and husband Jerry, Akron, Karen Aikman, Bunker Hill; one brother, Bert Kamp, Akron; nine grandchildren; four step-grandchildren; and 17 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, one brother, and two sisters.

Funeral services will be conducted Tuesday, Dec. 2, 2003 at 1 p.m. at DeLaughter-McKee Mortuary, North Manchester with Pastor Lawrence See officiating.

Visitation will occur at 11 a.m. at the funeral home Tuesday, Dec. 2, 2003.

Burial will be in the Akron Cemetery.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Wabash-Miami Home Healthcare and Hospice.
1 December 2003

Paul Warwick, Jr.


Paul Warwick, Jr., 78

Paul Warwick, Jr., 78, Bunker Hill, passed away Saturday, Dec. 6, 2003 at 3:50 p.m. at St. Joseph Hospital, Kokomo.

He was the former owner and operator of Warwick Carpet Service, as well as retired from Haynes International.

Warwick, Jr. served as a scoutmaster in Mishawaka, and Cubmaster in South Bend.

Warwick, Jr. was born May 3, 1925 to Paul and Imogene (Phillips) Warwick in Center.

He was the union committeeman for #2958 and the Executive Board, S.O.R.E. boardmember, and member of the V.F.W.

He married Evelyn E. Webber, who survives, Jan. 7, 1949.

Warwick, Jr. attended Miami Wesleyan Church and served in the United States Army 36th Division during World War II.

He participated in two tours of duty in Africa, Italy, and southern France.

Warwick, Jr. received the Combat Infantry badge, Bronze Star, Purple Heart, Good Conduct medal, E.T.O. medal with five Battle Stars, and Arrowhead for the invasion of southern France.

He served in the military police in Panama.

He was preceded in death by his parents, three brothers, Bill Warwick, Bob Warwick, and John Warwick.

Warwick, Jr. is survived by two sons, Dale E. Warwick and wife Brenda, Marysvile, Tenn., and Paul W. Warwick and wife Nicole, Kokomo; three daughters, Sue E. Allen and husband Brian, Flora, Pam Maish and husband Jeff, Bunker Hill, and Madelyn Malone, Kokomo; seven grandchildren, Anita Warwick, Cleveland, Heather Kimbler, Delano, Tenn., Emily and Nicholas Allen, Flora, Teena VanMeter, Kokomo, Brad and Adam Maish, Bunker Hill; and one grandson, Trenton Kimbler, Delano, Tenn.

The funeral service will be conducted Tuesday, Dec. 9, 2003 at 2 p.m. at Allen Funeral Home, Bunker Hill with Reverend Charles Dedrick officiating.

Visitation will be Monday, Dec. 8, 2003 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the funeral home.

Burial will be at Springdale Cemetery, Bunker Hill, with a military committal service.

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society.
8 December 2003

Richard Emmerling


Richard Emmerling, 78

Richard Emmerling, 78, Bunker Hill, passed away Saturday, Dec. 6, 2003 at 1 p.m. at Methodist Hospital, Indianapolis.

Funeral arrangements are pending at Allen Funeral Home, Bunker Hill.
8 December 2003

Vassil W. Cross, Jr., 87


Vassil W. Cross, Jr., 87, Warsaw, passed away on Saturday, December 20, 2003, at 5:45 p.m., at Miller's Merry Manor of Warsaw, where he had been a patient since September, 2003. He had been in failing health for the past six months.

He was born August 25, 1916, in Center (Howard County) to Vassil W. and Pearl Cross, who preceded him in death. He resided in Warsaw the past two years, coming from Nyona Lake. On January 27, 1945, he was married to Evie Loar and she preceded him in death on September 28, 1995.

Mr. Cross was a graduate of Kokomo High School, and the owner and operator of Standard Packing Company in Kokomo for 60 years. Memberships include the Manitou Moose Lodge #1107, Rochester; Life member of the Manitou Post VFW #1343; American Legion Post #36, Rochester; and Past District Commander of VFW Post #1152, Kokomo. As a member of the U.S. Air Force, he served in the European Theater during WW II. His favorite pastime was woodworking.

Survivors include one daughter, Sandy Dresch, Warsaw; one son, Michael Cross, Rochester; one granddaughter, Kim Dresch, Warsaw; one grandson, Kent Dresch, Hammond; a great-great-granddaughter, Sierra Dresch, Warsaw; and one sister, Mary Rife, Warsaw.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, two sisters, and three brothers.

Funeral services will be at 1 p.m., Saturday, in the Foster and Good Funeral Home, Rochester. Friends of the family will have charge of the Celebration of Life Services.
26 December 2003

Vicki M. White, 50


Vicki M. White, 50, Peru, passed away Saturday, Dec. 27, 2003 at 9:20 a.m., at Dukes Memorial Hospital.

She was born Nov. 21, 1953 in Peru to Bernie and the late Nancy (Correll) Kindlesparker.

A homemaker, White married Billy White in 1996. He survives.

Other survivors include daughters Kelly Poindexter and Kari Poindexter, both of Peru; three sons, Chris Poindexter, Zionsville, Derek Poindexter, Ohio, and Kenny Poindexter, Peru; four grandchildren, Cody, Bailey, Zachary and Hunter; brother Mark Kindlesparker and his wife Rene, Zionsville; and sister Jill Hershberger and her husband Jay, Amboy.

She was preceded in death by her mother, and brother Larry Kindlesparker.

A graveside service will be 2 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 30, 2003 at Ever-Rest Memorial Park in Cass County, with Pastor Rod Correll officiating. Arrangements are being made by Flowers-Leedy Funeral Home.

Love offerings may be made to the funeral home to help defray burial expenses.
29 December 2003

Joan E. Whitcomb, 75

Joan Whitcomb
Joan E. Whitcomb, 75, Bunker Hill, passed away Saturday, Dec. 27, 2003 at 9:18 p.m. at Howard Regional Health Center in Kokomo.

She was born July 9, 1928 in Plymouth to Don and Gladys (Burns) Shreve. She was a 1946 graduate of Bunker Hill High School.

Whitcomb married Wallace Whitcomb July 27, 1952. He survives.

Throughout the years, she worked as a receptionist for Square D Company, and was formerly an organist and pianist for the First Baptist Church in Bunker Hill, where she also taught Sunday School.

In addition to the First Baptist Church, Whitcomb was also a member of the Cormach Church Group and the Deer Creek Do-Etts. In 1976 Whitcomb received the Ethel Stewar Mother-of-the-Year Award for the Purdue Glee Club.

Survivors include her husband; son Stephen Whitcomb and his wife Pam, Texas; daughter Karol Evenson, Wabash; three grandchildren, Philip, Valerie and Nathan; and brother Richard Shreve, West Virginia.

She was preceded in death by her parents, and son Stanton Karl.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 31, 2003 at the First Baptist Church with Reverend Charles Layne officiating. Burial will be at Springdale Cemetery in Bunker Hill.

Friends may call Tuesday, Dec. 30 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Allen Funeral Home in Bunker Hill.
29 December 2003

Myron O. Aukerman, 92

Myron Aukerman
Myron O. Aukerman, 92, Peru, passed away Saturday, Dec. 27 at 4:30 p.m., at Hickory Creek Nursing Home in Peru.

Aukerman was born July 21, 1911 to Orville E. and Ora (Pickens) Aukerman in Randolph County. He was a retired clerk for Peru Automotive, where he worked until 1973.

He married Ruth L. Brooke Aug. 16, 1947. She preceded him in death June 19, 1984.

Aukerman was a member of the First Church of God in Peru, and was a World War II veteran, serving in the United States Army. He was also a member of Phi Delta Kappa.

Survivors include his son, Myron R. Aukerman, Peru.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife and two brothers.

Funeral services will be 2 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 31, 2003 at Flowers-Leedy Funeral Home, with Rev. Larry Klein officiating. Burial will be at Mount Hope Cemetery.

Friends may call Tuesday, dec. 30, 2003 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Salvation Army through Flowers-Leedy.
29 December 2003

Richard E. Morris


Richard E. Morris, 53

Richard E. Morris, 53, passed away Sunday, Dec. 7, 2003 at 3:20 p.m. at St. Vincent Hospice in Indianapolis.

Funeral arrangements are pending at Flowers-Leedy Funeral Home.
8 December 2003

George T. Varney, 82


George T. Varney, 82, Miller’s Merry Manor, Wabash, died Saturday, Dec. 13, 2003, at 11:25 a.m., at Wabash County Hospital.

Varney was born Oct. 7, 1921 in Pikeville, Ky., to Lewis and Vada Blackman Varney. On Sept. 4, 1944, he married Ledna Hess, and she preceded him in death Jan. 8, 2000.

He attended school for eight years and was a veteran of the U.S. Army. Varney retired as a coal miner in Kentucky in 1968. He had lived in Wabash since 1972.

Survivors include two sons, Von Varney, Warsaw, and James C. Varney, Kokomo; one daughter, Mary Lewis, Wabash; two brothers, James L. Varney, Connecticut, and Roland T. Varney, Belfrey, Ky.; three sisters, Vicy Maynard, Pikeville, Ky., Marie Justice, Huddy, Ky., and Ruby Blackburn, Metter, Ga.; ten grandchildren, and 14 great-grandchildren.

Varney was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, two brothers and two sisters.

Funeral services will be Wednesday at 2 p.m. at McDonald Funeral Home, Eddingfield Chapel, 231 Falls Ave., Wabash. Officiating at the funeral will be Charles Sluss. Burial will be at Ever-Rest Cemetery, Logansport. Calling is 2-8 p.m., Tuesday, at the funeral home.
16 December 2003

No arrangements as yet

Tribune Staff Report


Arrangements for Jarrod Black’s funeral have not been made yet, according to Flowers-Leedy Funeral Home officials.

Black died while on active duty in Iraq Friday.

As soon as information is available, the Tribune will publish it.
16 December 2003



Jarrod W. Black, 26


Jarrod W. Black, 26, Peru and stationed at Fort Riley, Kan., died Friday, December 12, 2003 while serving on active duty in Iraq.

He was born Jan. 21, 1977 to William R. and Jane Garver Black. He married Shawna Coleman Black on Dec. 14, 2002, and she survives. They are expecting their first child in April; a little girl, Sheridan Elizabeth Black.

Sergeant Black was killed in action while serving in the U.S. Army in Iraq.

Survivors besides his wife and parents in Peru include two sons, Jacob and Jason, Peru; two grandmothers, Marylynn Black and Audrey Chapman, both of Peru; a grandfather, Rowland Garver, Peru; a brother, Brandon Black, stationed at Fort Bragg, N.C.; several uncles and aunts, Kim and Rick Brown, Tom and Suzy Black, Jim Black, Nancy Black, Steve Black, Ronna Black, all of Peru, Michael and Dianne Garver, Cairo, Ga.; several cousins, Ashley and Felicia Brown, Daniel, Christopher, Samantha, Tracy, Lori, Kim, Parker and Joshua Black, all of Peru, and Tony Garver and Dana Garver Mitchell, Cairo, Ga.

He was preceded in death by a son, Justin; and two grandfathers, Howard Black and Robert Chapman.

Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Saturday at Main Street United Methodist Church, with Pastor Steven Ailes officiating. Burial will be in Mount Hope Cemetery, Peru. Friends called at the church from 2 to 8 p.m. Friday. Memorial contributions may be made to the Sheridan Elizabeth Black Trust Fund. Arrangements are being handled by Flowers-Leedy Funeral Home.
20 December 2003

Grace E. Vance, 90


Grace E. Vance, 90, Peru, died at 5:20 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 16, 2003 at Caring Hands Health Care Center.

Funeral arrangements are pending at Flowers-Leedy Funeral Home.
17 December 2003




Grace E. Vance, 90


Grace E. Vance, 90, Peru, died at 5:20 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 16, 2003 at Caring Hands Health Care Center.

She was born Oct. 26, 1913 in Logansport to William and Della Cline Finks. She married Keith E. Vance Sept. 6, 1937, and he survives.

Vance was a homemaker and a member of Main Street United Methodist Church, a past member of the Homeic Club and a Miami County 4-H Leader for 20 years.

Survivors besides her husband include three daughters, Grace Cole, Mooresville, and twins girls, Jean Douglass and husband Morgan, Evergreen, Colo., and Judy Satrom and husband David, Lebanon; five grandchildren, Lorraine Spayde, Vance Cole, Wayne Satrom, and Steven and David Douglass; three great-grandchildren, Cordelia and Keith Cole, and Chris Spayde; and one great-grandchild, Cole Spayde.

She was preceded in death by her parents, a brother, Carl Finks, and a sister, Mae Scott.

The funeral will be at 1 p.m. Saturday at Flowers-Leedy Funeral Home, with Pastor Steven Ailes officiating. Burial will be in Galveston Cemetery. Friends may call from 4 to 8 p.m. Friday at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to Miami County 4-H, the American Cancer Society or the Main Street United Methodist Church.
17 December 2003

Kenneth Raymond Maxwell, 58


Kenneth Raymond Maxwell, 58, Lexington, died Sunday, Dec. 14, 2003.

He was born in Detroit to Kenneth Alton and Florence Wimer Maxwell. He married to Bette Bertram, and she survives.

Maxwell was a U.S. Army veteran, having served in Korea, and self-employed as a wholesale food service distributor.

Survivors besides his wife include two sons, Bryan Maxwell, Lexington, Ky., and Kenneth Andrew Maxwell and wife Tiffanie, Lancaster, Ky.; two daughters, Angelia Kaufman, Logansport, and Michelle Grady, Westfield; four grandchildren, Audie and Cassidy Kaufman, Jackson Maxwell and Devan Mullikin; four brothers, Jim, Bruce, Joe and David Maxwell, all of Peru; four sisters, Edith Binkerd, Peru, Shirley Beatty, Dayton, Ohio, Evelyn Borg, Fort Wayne, and Linda Bartoo, Wabash.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Brenda Persinger.

Funeral services will be at 12:30 p.m. Thursday at Kerr Brothers Funeral Home, Harrodsburg Road, Lexington, Ky., with the Reverend William B. Kincaid, III, officiating. Burial will follow in Lexington Cemetery. Visitation is Wednesday, 6-8 p.m. Memorial contributions are suggested to the American Heart Association, 2201 Regency Road, Suite 401, Lexington, KY 40503.
17 December 2003

Paul Brackenhamer, Jr., 79


Paul Brackenhamer, Jr., 79, Palm Desert, Calif., died Wednesday, Dec. 3, 2003, in Rancho Mirage, Calif.

He was born in Peru, Oct. 26, 1924, to Paul Brackenhamer, Sr., and Grace Parks Brackenhamer. Paul married Mae L. Huddleston, Sept. 6, 1947, in Peru, who survives.

Brackenhamer served in the U.S. Army, 496th Field Artillery Battalion, European Operation, from June 1943 through February 1946. He worked for the U.S. Postal Service as a mail carrier in Santa Barbara, Calif., for 20 years and for seven years more in Rancho Mirage. He was a member of Portola Country Club and Portola Men’s Golf Club, Palm Desert.

Survivors besides his wife include a sister, Ruthann Brackenhamer White, Wabash; and a brother, James Brackenhamer, Largo, Fla.

Private graveside services were held Monday at Desert Memorial Park, Cathedral City, Calif. Private interment was at Desert Memorial Park, with arrangements by Wiefels and Son Funeral Directors, Palm Springs, Calif. The family suggests memorials to the Alzheimer’s Association, Palm Desert, or a charity of your choice.
18 December 2003

Sylvia B. Willis, 89


Sylvia B. Willis, 89, Peru, died at 8:25 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 17, 2003 at her home.

She was born Sept. 21, 1914 in Esteril County, Ky. to Jess and Viola Hatton Rogers. She married Clay Willis May 22, 1931, and he died Sept. 19, 1993.

Willis was a homemaker, owned Willis’ Ceramic Shop, and attended Chapel Hill Alliance and Nazarene Church.

Survivors include two sons, Jouit Willis and wife Virginia, Rochester, and Bobby Willis and wife Cathy, Sarasota, Fla.; a daughter, Lois Hoover and husband Richard, Peru; a sister, Drucilla Pasley, Peru; 12 grandchildren, Mike, Carla, Jeff, Brad, Doug, Tim, Darin, Robin, Jason, Jessica, Jennifer R. and Justin; and 16 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, a son, Windell Willis, a grandchild, Jennifer S., a great-grandchild and nine brothers and sisters.

The funeral will be at 10 a.m. Saturday at Flowers-Leedy Funeral Home. Burial will be in Mount Hope Cemetery, Peru. Friends may call from 2 to 8 p.m. Friday at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to the Miami/Wabash County Hospice.
18 December 2003

Christopher S. “Chris” Moore, 24


Christopher S. “Chris” Moore, 24, Peru, died at 10 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 16, 2003 at Methodist Hospital, Indianapolis, due to injuries suffered in a Dec. 9 accident at U.S. 31 and SR 26 in Howard County.

He was born Oct. 26, 1979 in Peru to Scott Moore and Julie Shaffer Moore Walker.

Moore graduated from Peru High School in 1998, and served in the U.S. Marine Corp. for four years. He was attending Purdue University, studying writing and film directing. He also was an avid screen writer and loved to play the guitar.

Survivors include his parents in Peru; two grandmothers, Edith Shaffer and Harriett Moore, both of Peru; his best friend and college roommate, Justin McCormick; two nephews, Trevor Walker and T.J. Boyd; a niece, Brooklyn Boyd; and two sisters, Heather Boyd and husband Anthony, and Shannon Walker, all of Peru.

The funeral will be at 11 a.m. Monday at Flowers-Leedy Funeral Home, with Chaplain Steve Fleck officiating. Burial will be in Mount Hope Cemetery, Peru, Friends may call from 2 to 6 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home.
19 December 2003

Deborah Ann King Willis, 70


Deborah Ann King Willis, 70, Indianapolis, formerly of Peru, a long-time advocate of and activist in breast cancer support groups, died of complications of the disease on December 22, 2003.

She was born February 19, 1933, in Peru, and graduated from Peru High School in 1951, and then from Indiana University in 1955, with an AB degree, and was a member of Alpha Omicron Pi. She taught in the Washington Township school system in Indianapolis, and was a substitute in the Duneland Schools in Chesterton.

Debbie was one of the founders and promoters of Y-Me of Central Indiana, a breast cancer support group that is affiliated with Y-Me, a national organization. She was also a volunteer with the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, and the Komen Indianapolis Race For The Cure.

She served in many volunteer capacities over the years, including board member of the Community Service Council of the United Way of Central Indiana; vice president of the United Way of Indiana; board member of the United Way of Porter county; president of the Drifting Dunes Girl Scout Council, serving East Lake and Porter Counties; and president of the Indiana Lawyers’ Auxiliary.

She took great delight in her garden, particularly her daffodils and spring forest wildflowers, and in experimenting with cooking from around the world.

Survivors include her husband of 47 years, David A. Willis, Indianapolis; three daughters, Anne Willis Reed and husband Thomas, and d’Andre Willis and husband Jamie Whalen of Milwaukee, and Alexandra Willis, Baltimore; her granddaughter Deborah Katherine Reed, who is called Kate; and her brothers, John E. King and wife Polly, Cape Coral, Fla., and Jerry A. King and wife Ellen, Las Vegas.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Jess E. King and Lenora Morris King, Peru.

A “Celebration of Debbie’s Life” will held at noon on Sunday, January 11, 2004, at Oak Hill Mansion, 5801 East 116th Street, Carmel. Memorial gifts may be made to the Deborah A. Willis Fund of the Women’s Fund of Central Indiana, 615 North Alabama Street, Indianapolis, IN 46204-1498.
20 December 2003

Esther W. Rudicel, 93


Esther W. Rudicel, 93, Twelve Mile, died at 8 a.m. Sunday, Dec. 21, 2003 at Miller’s Merry Manor, Logansport.

She was born Oct. 8, 1910 in Cass County to Robert Samuel and Grace Brown Williamson. She graduated from Metia High School in 1928, and married Carl F. Rudicel Oct. 31, 1933 in Royal Center. He died Jan. 15, 2000.

Rudicel was a homemaker, a member of Twelve Mile United Methodist Church and a former member of Adams Township Extension Homemakers Club.

Survivors include three sons, Robert F. Rudicel and wife Ruth Ann, Lafayette, Richard D. Rudicel and wife Carla, Kokomo, and Rex E. Rudicel and wife Jennifer, Twelve Mile; 10 grandchildren, Mike, Mark, Jill, Todd, Kristen, Chad, Craig and Jaime Rudicel, Joy Spitznogle and Tamara Kimbler; and 12 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband and a brother, Robert S. Williamson.

The funeral will be at 2 p.m. Tuesday at McClain Funeral Home, Denver, with Pastor Teri White officiating. Burial will be in Spring Creek Cemetery, Logansport. Calling will be from noon to 2 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to Twelve Mile United Methodist Church.
22 December 2003

Phyllis June Books 76


Phyllis June Books 76, Warsaw, formerly of Rochester, died at 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 20, 2003 at Kosciusko Community Hospital, Warsaw.

She was born June 18, 1927 in Peru to Harry Francis and Effie Mae Mullnix Eberlie. She married Ervin E. Books June 15, 1947 in Peru. He preceded her in death Sept. 3, 1987.

Books was a homemaker and had been an Avon and Tupperware dealer. She was a charter member of Peru Nazarene Church, had been a member of Macy Christian Church for 25 years and attended Westside Apostolic Church in Rochester for 25 years.

Survivors include three sons, Harry Books and wife Veronica, Richard A. Books, all of LaFontaine, and Jim Warner and wife Linda, Naples, Fla.; seven daughters, Honey Pruitt and husband Loren, Warsaw, Aloralee Bromley and husband Don, South Whitley, Roxanna Carter and husband Paul E. Jr., Peru, Sandra Shockey and husband Dave, Indianapolis, Christina Drudge and husband Roger, Kite, Ky., Juneattea May and husband Rick, Rochester, and Joyce Martin and husband Bud, Kokomo; a half-brother, Jerry Richardson and wife Nancy, Bunker Hill; 22 grandchildren and 52 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband; two sisters, Thelma Ulshafer and Rhoda Fisher; and two brothers, Harry and Jim “Sonny” Eberlie.

Funeral services will be at 2 p.m. Tuesday at Zimmerman Bros. Funeral Home, Rochester, with Rev. Mike Young officiating. Burial will be in Plainview Cemetery, Macy. Friends may call from 5 to 8 p.m. Monday and one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.
22 December 2003




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