Juan Carlos Cespedes, 58, of Logansport, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Monday, May 22, 2023 at home.

Born on August 30, 1964 in Quillabamba, Cusco, Peru, he was the son of Daniel Cespedes Alvarez and Melchora Palma Caceves.

Juan was formerly employed at Tyson Foods for 20 years in Logansport. He enjoyed working out, listening to music, carpentry and shopping at Home Depot and Menards.

Survivors include his wife, Eva Cruz Hernandez, children, Angela Cespedes, Charles Cespedes, Carlos Yair Vazquez Cruz and Yarisol Cruz Hernandez and sisters, Yolanda Cespedes, Maria Elena Cespedes and Luz Yoni Cespedes. He is also survived by 3 grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his mother.

Services will be at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, May 27, 2023 at Rans Funeral Homes & Crematory, Marocco Chapel, 119 E. Market St., Logansport.

Visitation will be from 1:00 p.m. until the time of the service.

Burial will be at Mt. Hope Cemetery.

Juan’s online guestbook is available and condolences can be shared with the family at
www.ransfuneralhomes.com.

Juan Carlos Cespedes, 58, de Logansport falleció en paz rodeado por su familia el Lunes, 22 de Mayo, 2023 en su residencia.  

Nació el 30 de Agosto del 1964 en Quillabamba, Cusco, Peru, era el hijo de Daniel Cespedes Alvarez y Melchora Palma Caceves. 

Anteriormente Juan trabajo en Tyson Foods durante 20 años en Logansport. Disfruto haciendo ejercicio, escuchando música, carpintería y haciendo compras en Home Depot y Menards.  

Los familiares sobrevivientes son su esposa, Eva Cruz Hernandez, hijos, Angela Cespedes, Charles Cespedes, Carlos Yair Vazquez Cruz y Yarisol Cruz Hernandez y hermanas, Yolanda Cespedes, Maria Elena Cespedes y Luz Yoni Cespedes. 

Fue precedido en la muerte por su madre.  

El servicio fúnbre será a las 2:00 p.m., Sábado, 27 de Mayo, 2023 en la Funeraria y Crematorio de Rans, Capilla de Marocco, 119 E. Market St., Logansport. 

El velorio será a la 1:00 p.m. hasta el horario del servicio. 

El sepelio será en el panteón de Mt. Hope en Logansport, IN. 

Las condolencias y el libro de visitas estarán disponibles en línea y se pueden compartir con la familia en el sitio web www.ransfuneralhomes.com para Juan. 

Larry V. Gearhart 88, of Fulton, passed away at 2:22 A.M. Tuesday, May 23, 2023 at his residence.

He was born on February 1, 1935 in Huntington County, Indiana, the son of Frank and Edna (McPeak) Gearhart. On May 2, 1954 in Akron, Indiana, he married Donna Becker and she survives.

Larry had been a butcher, owning and operating his own grocery store, Gearhart Groceries in Fulton. Larry later worked for Martin Supermarkets, Kroger Grocery Store and had owned the gas station in Fulton. He had also owned his own Antique Store, Gearhart Antiques.

In his spare time, he had been a fifty -year member of the Fulton Baptist Temple, a twenty- year member of the Fulton- Liberty Township Volunteer Fire Department and had been a charter member of the Fulton -Liberty Township Lions Club.

He enjoyed playing euchre, mushroom hunting, spending time with his children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, supporting all their athletic activities, and all his relatives from being one of eighteen children. He was an avid Notre Dame and Chicago White Sox fan.

Survivors include his wife, Donna Gearhart, Rochester, Indiana, children, Rick (Amy) Gearhart, Winamac, Indiana, Diane Gearhart, Rochester, Indiana, daughter-in-law, Cheryl Gearhart, Fulton, Indiana, grandchildren, Tim( Gretchen) Gearhart, Winamac, Indiana, Jessica Gearhart, Pennsylvania, Kristen Overmyer, Rochester, Indiana, Brandon (Elvis) Gearhart, Indianapolis, Indiana, Heath Lee Gearhart, Fulton, Indiana, Misty Leann Gearhart, Fulton, Indiana eight great grandchildren, siblings, Dorothy LaVerne Alger, Laketon, Indiana Ruth Miller, North Manchester, Indiana, Joan Harris, Fulton, Indiana, several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, son, Greg Gearhart, siblings, Ethel Gearhart, Edith Gearhart, Ray Edward Gearhart, Opal Gearhart, Floyd Charles Gearhart, Leonard Otto Gearhart, Donald James Gearhart, Harold Walter Gearhart, Leo John Gearhart, Sharon E. Meenen, William Eugene Gerhart, Max Junior Gearhart, Dick K. Gearhart, and Roger Gearhart.

 Funeral services will be conducted at 12:00 P.M. Friday, May 26, 2023, at Zimmerman Bros. Funeral Home, Rochester.

Friends may visit from 10:00 A.M. to 12:00 P.M. Friday at the funeral home.

Burial will be in the Fulton Cemetery, Fulton, Indiana.

Memorial contributions may be to the American Diabetes Association, Fulton County Animal Adoption and Education Center, or the Fulton-Liberty Township Volunteer Fire Department.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.zimmermanbrosfh.com

Alan D. Bitterling 79, Rochester, passed away at 9:22 P.M. Tuesday, May 23, 2023, at his residence.

He was born on December 24, 1943 in Winamac, Indiana, the son of Ralph and Helen (Conn) Bitterling. On March 11, 2017 at the Riverview Community Church, he married Carol Ann (Townsend) Bradway and she survives.

Alan graduated from Purdue University with a Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture and had served in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War. He had worked as Administrator for Farmer’s Home Administration, Rensselaer, Indiana. He had been a member of Riverview Community Church, American Legion and the Eagles Lodge. In his spare- time he enjoyed gardening.

Survivors include his wife, Carol A. Bitterling, Rochester, Indiana, children, Jennifer (Mike) Skinner, Knox, Indiana, Thomas (Andrea) Bitterling, Butler, Indiana, step-children, Dennis (Trey) Castleman, Fremont, California, Debra Tuttle, Rochester, Indiana, grandchildren, Alexandria (Josiah) Scott, Mishawaka, Indiana, Victoria Bulick, Pennsylvania, Jordan Bulick, Hamlet, Indiana, Jesse Skinner, Wisconsin, Hannah Ricketts, Fort Wayne, Indiana, Chloe Ricketts, Fort Wayne, Indiana, Brady Bitterling, Butler, Indiana, Nicholas Bitterling, Butler, Indiana, Kyle Castleman, Fremont, California, Libby Castleman, Fremont, California, Daylene (Brett) Byers, Rochester, Indiana, Scott (Samantha) Tuttle, Rochester, Indiana, Robert (Companion Misty Golden) Tuttle, Rochester, Indiana, Lacee (Damien) White, Lakeville, Indiana, great grandchildren, Brayden, Alivia and Callen Byers, Eres and Easton Tuttle and Wesley White, and awaiting the arrival of Destin David White, who is due any day, sister, Lona Hoover, Peru, Indiana, brother, James Bitterling, Bowling Green, Kentucky, several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, daughter, Emily Jo Bitterling, brother, Robert Ralph Bitterling, step-sons, David Castleman and Donnie Castleman, son-in-law, David Tuttle.

Funeral services will be conducted at 12:00 P.M. Saturday, May 27, 2023 at Riverview Community Church, 3780 IN- 110, Tippecanoe, Indiana 46570.

Friends may call from 10:00 A.M. to 12:00 P.M. Saturday at the church. Burial will follow in Bruce Lake Cemetery, Kewanna, Indiana.

Memorial contributions may be made to Riverview Community Church, Fulton County Animal Adoption and Education Center or Elara Caring Hospice Foundation.

Arrangements by Zimmerman Bros. Funeral Home, Rochester, Indiana. Online condolences may be expressed at www.zimmermanbrosfh.com .

William Hal Hammel 78, of Rochester, passed away at 4:05 P.M. Tuesday, May 23, 2023, at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center, Mishawaka, Indiana.

He was born on January 23, 1945 in Marion, Ohio, the son of Hal M. and Violet Pauline (Erny) Hammel. On December 20, 2020 at the Rochester Church of the Nazarene, he married Vicki Runkle and she survives.

Bill had worked for many years in various departments for the former Hammel Motors, Rochester, Indiana. He later drove for Dean Foods, a school bus for Rochester Community Schools and had owned and operated his own lawn and residential service company, Westside Services. He was a member of Heart to Heart Church of the Nazarene and enjoyed tinkering on anything mechanical as well as performing auto body repair work. In his leisure time, he enjoyed his time with his two dogs.

Survivors include his wife, Vicki Hammel, Rochester, Indiana, sons, Kenny Hammel, Rochester, Indiana, Eric (Valerie) Hammel, Rochester, Indiana, step-son, Dustin Overmyer, Rochester, Indiana, step-daughters, Jeanette (Dale) Cave, Macy, Indiana, Karie Pena, North Judson, Indiana, mother, Lois Hammel, Rochester, Indiana, grandchildren, Zachary Hammel, Rochester, Indiana, Jakeb Hammel, Rochester, Indiana, step grandchildren, Josh (Hannah) Haimbaugh, Rochester, Indiana, A.J. Haimbaugh,  Leiters Ford, Indiana, Wade (Becky) Cave, Rochester, Indiana, Cassidy (Andrew) Harlen, Rochester, Indiana, three step-great grandchildren, siblings, Jon Melvin Hammel, Rochester, Indiana, Loretta Ann (Tom) Blessing, Goshen, Indiana, Michael David Hammel, Rochester, Indiana. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Graveside services will be conducted at 11:00 A.M. Tuesday, May 30, 2023, at Odd Fellows Cemetery, Rochester, Indiana. Memorial contributions may be made to Heart to Heart Church of the Nazarene, 1987 Southway 31, Rochester, Indiana, 46975. Arrangements by Zimmerman Bros. Funeral Home, Rochester, Indiana. Online condolences may be expressed at www.zimmermanbrosfh.com

Nicholas John “Nick” Diment, 75, of Winamac, passed away on Thursday, May 18, 2023 at Pulaski Memorial Hospital in Winamac. 

He was born on February 18, 1948 in Croydon South, England to the late Reginald James and Beryl Marguerite [Preater] Diment.  On May 2, 1948, he was baptized at St. Matthew’s Church in Croydon, England. 

At age 14, Nick joined the British Royal Navy.  He served aboard HMS Eagle for five years and also aboard HMS Porpoise and HMS Repulse for five years. 

On September 21, 1968, Nick married the love of his life, Evelyn Payne, at St. Matthews Church in Manchester. In 1981, they moved to the United States of America living in Huntington Beach, CA and Lake Elsinore, CA until moving to Winamac in 2018. 

Nick enjoyed cooking and watching TV.  He loved his family very much and will be dearly missed.

He is survived by;

Evelyn [Payne] Diment, Winamac, IN Wife

Michelle (Dennis) Arnold, Winamac, IN Daughter

Kaylee Evans, Mishawaka, IN Granddaughter

Pamela Diment, Kent, England Step Mother

9 Siblings: Ruth, Geoff, Stephanie, Rachel, Maria, Andrew, Jeremy, Paul, and Hayley

Preceded in death by:

Reginald James and Beryl Marguerite [Preater] Diment, Parents

No Services will be held. 

Cremation Arrangements have been entrusted to Frain Mortuary in Winamac, IN. 

Nancy Lee Hair, 76, of Peru, found healing and rest with Jesus on May 18, 2023 after a brave, hard-fought battle with cancer.

Nancy was born on May 23, 1946 to  Edward Sr. and Mary (Wirrant) Jerzak in South Bend, IN. 

She married her sweetheart, Bob (Robert) Hair on August 3, 1968. She is survived by her sons Robert (Dawn) Hair, Ken (Kassie) Hair, Keith (Carrie) Hair, granddaughters Madison (Roger), Amelia (David), Andrea (Tayson) and Riley, great-granddaughter, Charlotte, nephew Todd Weaver, whom she treated like a son, and many extended family members who were very special to her. 

Nancy was a proud Air Force wife. She was a hard worker and even detasseled corn alongside her boys when they were teenagers. She loved working with seniors and children, spending countless hours driving the senior bus for the YMCA, volunteering at VBS and taking her granddaughters and their friends to the local VBS programs. She could often be found serving meals to the hungry and ringing the bell for the Salvation Army each Christmas.

She enjoyed thrifting and was always on the hunt for a “treasure” for her family.  She loved her church home, Zion Chapel.

Nancy enjoyed her lunches out with her friends, and many adventures with her lifelong BFF’s Miriam Stout, Patty Gibbs and Pat Edgington. She had a way of making so many people she knew feel special, especially on their birthdays, with a phone call or a card.

Most importantly, Nancy believed in and loved Jesus, accepting Him as her Lord and Savior as a young woman. This gives us all the opportunity to someday be reunited with her.

Visitation will be at Zion Chapel, 915 South Broadway, Peru, on Tuesday, May 23 from 5:00-7:00 PM.

A service, officiated by Pastor Rod Correll, will immediately follow.

In lieu of flowers, Nancy requested donations be made to the kids/youth programs at Zion Chapel.

Dolores C. Swartzell, 74, of Winamac, passed away Sunday, May 21, 2023 at Pulaski Health Care Center in Winamac. 

She was born on July 4, 1948 in Winamac to the late Marion J. and Mary Jo. [Bender] Swartzell.  Dolores graduated from Holy Family grade school and attended Monterey High School. 

She was a former member of the American Legion Auxiliary in Florida and currently a member of Winamac Eagles  Auxiliary #2580. 

Dolores loved her dog, Ginger very much.  She enjoyed flowers and gardening.  Most of all, Dolores was a devoted mother and grandmother. 

She is survived by:

Jim Galbreath, Son

Bill Galbreath, Son

Laura Wolfe, Daughter

6 Grandchildren

Michelle Swartzell, Sister

Mary Swartzell, Sister

Preceded in death by:

Marion J. Swartzell, Father

Mary Jo [Bender] Swartzell Fowler, Mother

Harold Fowler, Step Father

Joe and Clara Bender, Maternal Grandparents

Graveside Services will be held at 10 AM EDT Friday, May 26, 2023 at St. Peter’s Cemetery in Winamac, IN.

Burial will take place at St. Peter’s Cemetery in Winamac, IN.

Memorial Contributions may be made to St. Peter’s Cemetery or Pulaski Animal Center.

Online Tributes may be offered at www.frainmortuary.com.

Cremation Arrangements have been entrusted to Frain Mortuary in Winamac, IN.

Beverly Ann Pinder, 77, of Plymouth, went to be with her Lord at 7:05 a.m., Thursday, May 18, 2023 at her home with her husband, Jerry, by her side.

Born on February 12, 1946 in Trent, Texas, she was the firstborn child of Clayton and Doris Hood. Her mother was born Grace Walton and changed her name at the age of 16 to Doris Smith.

On August 23, 1965, she married Jerry Pinder while both were in the Army at Ft. Dix, NJ. He survives.

She was a dedicated nurse for over 30 years, working in Chicago before moving to Plymouth.

Bev enjoyed reading and playing computer games.

She is survived by her husband, Jerry Pinder of Plymouth, son, Darren Pinder (Vanessa) of Knox, grandchildren, Brett Kersey, Jared Fawley, Brendon Pinder, Jacob Pinder,  Abigail Pinder and Olivia Tallarita, brother, Wayne Hood of Kauffman, TX.  and sister, Marie Bannister of Trinidad, TX.  She is also survived by an Aunt, Dorothy Russell of Abilene, TX.  and cousins, Charles Russell of Abilene, TX. , Janice Walton Patton of Celinas, TX. and Bonnie Walton of California. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by daughter, Deanna Hale, son, Kerry Pinder, brother, Terry Hood and sister, Gail Pinder.

Funeral Services with Military Rites and Nursing Honors will be held at 1:00 p.m., Tuesday, May 23, 2023 at Rans Funeral Homes & Crematory, Metzger Chapel, Kewanna with Chaplain Wyatt Smith officiating.

Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service.

Burial will follow at Citizens IOOF Cemetery in Kewanna.

In lieu of flowers, donation can be made to the Center for Hospice Care, 1419 N. Michigan St., Plymouth, IN. 46563

Bev’s online guestbook is available and condolences can be shared with the family at www.ransfuneralhomes.com

William E. “Bill” Albright, 95, of Logansport, passed away surrounded by his devoted children on Friday, May 19, 2023  at Chase Center.

He was born on December 19, 1927 in Logansport.  The only child of William J. and Mary C. (Hile) Albright.

On February 11, 1950 he married the love of his life, Judith Ann Marocco.  Together they welcomed two children, Marsha Ann and David Edward. 

Bill attended Logansport High School and served in the U.S. Army Air Corps. He was a city bus driver, he and his best friend, Ivan Davis, painted and hung wallpaper.  Bill tended bar every Saturday and also was a truck driver for Kain’s Motor Service.

He is survived by his children, Marsha Fewell (Jerry) and David Albright (Olivia) and grandchildren, Amy McKinney (Bob), Arin Grider (Bill), Ryan Albright (Carrie), Dea Rinker (Tim), Missy Childers, Randy Fewell, Shannon Hiles (Rick), Daniel Hendricks (Eliza) and Lindsay Butrum (Matt).  He is also survived by 19 great grandchildren and 24 great great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Bill and Mary Albright, his wife of 50 years, Jude Ann Albright, sister in law, Mary Lou Kesling and brothers in law, John Marocco, Norman Kesling and Robert Wedekind.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 a.m., Thursday, May 25, 2023 at All Saints Catholic Church.

Visitation will be from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Wednesday, May 24, 2023 at Rans Funeral Homes & Crematory, Marocco Chapel, 119 E. Market St., Logansport.

Burial with military rites will be performed at Mt. Hope Cemetery.

Bill’s online guestbook is available and condolences can be shared with the family at www.ransfuneralhomes.com.

Kathryn Eileen Sommers, 83, of Grass Creek, passed away May 19, 2023 in Brownsburg, Indiana, following a recent illness.    She was born Dec. 21, 1939 to, Harry and Ruby Rice Quinn.  Raised on the family farm in Liberty Township, Carroll County, she graduated from Delphi High School in 1958 and attended Indiana Business College.  On June 23, 1963, she married David Lee Busch in Calvary Presbyterian Church in Logansport.  They celebrated 34 years of marriage until his death on Dec. 6, 1997.  On January 15, 1999, she married Carl D. Sommers, who preceded her in death on August 19, 2019.  

Eileen worked for GTE, various local tax preparers, Smith Office Supply, and the Cass County Assessor’s office.  She was widely known in the region for her position as an outside sales representative for Barton’s, visiting businesses in Logansport, Winamac, Rochester, Flora, and Monticello for over 30 years.  

She was a member of Calvary Presbyterian Church for 41 years, where she served as an Elder, Deacon, Sunday School teacher, and Communicants Class leader.  Following her move from Logansport to Grass Creek in 1999, she attended the Grass Creek United Methodist Church and was active with many church activities, including making loaves of bread for military service members overseas and preparing funeral dinners for members of the church and the Grass Creek community.  Eileen and Carl were beloved for hosting church members after their annual Christmas caroling, serving a bountiful assortment of Christmas cookies and hot chocolate topped with her delicious homemade marshmallows.  

Eileen was active in numerous volunteer and civic efforts throughout north central Indiana, including the Cass County Historical Society, the Logansport School Board Nominating Committee, the Logansport Lioness Club, the Grissom Air Force Base Community Council, the Indiana Canal Society, the Elks Lodge, and the Grass Creek Lions Club, where she focused on grant writing to improve the community park and preserve the historic Grass Creek Depot.  She was a founding board member of the Friends of the Fulton County Parks and Recreation Department, Inc., and a 52-year member of Beta Sigma Phi sorority, most recently as a member of the Preceptor Delta Beta chapter.

Eileen was an avid reader and loved assembling jigsaw puzzles.  She collected Heisey glassware, accumulating hundreds of pieces during a 40-year span of attending auctions and yard sales.  She enjoyed tending to her garden that yielded vegetables for her family and neighbors.  Her favorite activity was traveling with family and friends to China, Germany, Hawaii, Cancun, Alaska, and scores of places all over the United States.   

She is survived by her two sons, Michael David Busch of rural Rochester, and  Steven (Tammy) Busch of Brownsburg, Indiana;  stepson, Randy (Lisa) Sommers of Grass Creek; grandchildren, Joshua (Shaun-Marie) Busch of Fort Hamilton, New York, and Elisabeth Busch of Brownsburg, currently with the United States Army; step grandchildren, Kaitlin (David) Peraino of Findlay, Ohio and Kyle (Amanda) Sommers of Grass Creek; great grandsons; Dean Phillips and Charles Busch step great-grandchildren Addison Peraino, Alex Peraino, and Callum Sommers; brother David R. (Lori Klein) Quinn of Tomball, Texas; beloved nieces and nephews in Texas, Georgia, and Ohio;  and a stepson and stepdaughter. 

She was preceded in death by her parents and husbands, an infant daughter, brother Harold E. Quinn of San Antonio, Texas, sister Rebecca J. Quinn of Tomball, Texas, and step great-granddaughter Alaina Peraino.  

Visitation will be from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Tuesday, May 23, 2023 at Rans Funeral Homes, Metzger Chapel, 123 E. Main St., Kewanna

Services will be at 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, May 24, 2023 at the funeral home.

A private family graveside service will be held at Woodville Cemetery in Carroll County.

Memorial Contributions in lieu of flowers may be made to the Grass Creek Lions Club, the Fulton County Community Foundation, or a charitable organization of one’s choice. 

Bradley “Brad” Neal Crawford, 67, of Winamac, passed away at 2:50 am on Sunday, May 21, 2023 at his home in Winamac. 

Brad was born on December 13, 1955 to John and Florence Crawford in Logansport, Indiana.

On May 30, 2021, he married his best friend, Beth, in a small chapel on a beloved fishing lake in northern Minnesota.

Brad was a 1974 graduate of Winamac Community High School and afterwards attended Franklin College, ultimately attending and graduating from the Indiana University School of Dentistry in 1982.

He was an accomplished athlete in both high school and college. While at Franklin College, Brad was part of the track & field and football teams. He earned numerous awards and continues to hold several records.  He was an All-American football player and was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2000. 

Nevertheless, he stood out as the epitome of humility, a man one was honored to encounter.  Brad’s ultimate dream, however, was to return to his hometown to pursue his profession of general dentistry and enjoy his passion for hunting and fishing.

Brad was an avid outdoorsman and frequently enjoyed fishing locally on Lake Maxinkuckee.  In recent years, he and Beth also enjoyed spending time on several lakes in northern Minnesota. He was an accomplished fisherman and loved catching walleye, perch, and bluegill.

Despite Brad’s numerous accomplishments, his greatest pride and joy was his baby, Kelsey. His role as a father was the one which gave him the most joy, and he often spoke of how proud he was of the young woman that Kelsey had become.  Brad was a loving husband, father, brother, uncle, and friend and will be deeply missed. 

Survivors include daughter, Florence “Kelsey” Crawford; wife, Beth Ruff-Crawford; brother, Keven Crawford, Winamac; sister, Tina (Steve) Knebel, Winamac; Beth’s sons, Jake (Jenna) Ruff of Rochester and Josh (Hayley) Ruff of Fishers; Grandson Calvin Abraham Ruff of Fishers;  Mother-in-law, Barbara Halleck, of Winamac; brother-in-law, Tom (Tammy) Halleck of Star City; sisters-in-law, Jennifer (Dan) Knebel of Winamac and Cyndi (Joe) Garnett, Westfield, as well as numerous beloved nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Florence Crawford and father in law, Thomas Halleck, Sr.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 a.m., Friday, May 26, 2023 at St. Peters Catholic Cemetery in Winamac.

Visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Thursday, May 25, 2023 at the church.

Burial will be at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery West in Pulaski.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Lake Maxinkuckee Environmental Fund, PO Box 187, Culver, Indiana 46511

Brad’s online guestbook and condolences can be shared with the family at www.ransfuneralhomes.com.

Kevin D. Morrow, 55, of Rochester, passed away on Friday, May 19, 2023 at his home unexpectedly.

On August 10, 1967, Kevin DaWayne Morrow was born in Rochester to Joe and Ellen Damron Morrow. Growing up, he shared his childhood with an older brother, Anthony and a younger sister Jo Ellen.

Proudly he graduated from Rochester High School with the Class of  1985.  He was a member of the Zebras basketball team and played shortstop/second base for the RHS baseball team.

Answering the call of patriotism, Kevin served with the United States Navy for four years.  During his service stint he served as master of arms and was a member of the elite Seabees with the rank of E5 UT2.  He was medically honorably discharged in 1991.

 A man of diverse interests,  Kevin was gifted with his hands.  As an entrepreneur he owned Morrow Services.  Reliable and timely, Kevin was skilled with appliance, heating and air conditioning repairs, helping to keep our community homes running in top condition. He also enjoyed driving for Dynamic Transport.  Kevin's memberships include ABATE, Manitou VFW # 1343, Fraternal Order of Eagles # 852 and the LeRoy Shelton American Legion Post # 36.

In earlier years, Sunday's brought on the family motorcycle rides.  For sure the ride always included a stop at a local ice cream shop for everyone to chill.  Kevin and Tony had planned a 300-mile ride slated to begin the day after his passing.  

Camping was always an adventure with family and friends heading west to Winamac.  

Tinkering in the workshop on the mowers, trucks, go-karts and 4-wheelers was a great way to relax, while keeping the equipment fine tuned.  While at home Kevin's dogs Ginger and Bubby were never far from him.  Always decked out in his signature style: a T-Shirt, shorts, tennis shoes, and gelled hair.

Kevin was very proud of his daughter Kendal.  Growing up she accompanied him on many service calls,  learning a strong work ethic and teaching her the fundamentals of life.  He taught her the fine points of softball at a young age.  Kevin always looked forward to visiting his daughter Kendal in Texas where they went out to eat went shopping together. 

Left to cherish Kevin's memory are his daughter, Kendal Morrow of Corpus Christi, TX; parents, Ellen and Jim Conley, Joe Morrow; brother Tony Morrow; sister, Jo Ellen Baugh and husband Hank; and significant other, Cynthia Stucky, all of Rochester.

A celebration of the life of Kevin D. Morrow will be at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, May 23, 2023, in the Good Family Funeral Home, 1200 West 18th Street, Rochester.  

Friends may visit with the family from 4-7 PM on Monday, May 22, 2023 and one hour prior to the service in the funeral home.

Military honors will be conducted by the Fulton County Veterans Honor guard and the US Navy Honors Team.   

Annetta (Vires) Ritter 80, Rochester, passed away at 10:18 P.M. Thursday, May 18, 2023, at Indiana University Methodist Hospital, Indianapolis.

She was born on March 15, 1943 in Hazard, Kentucky, the daughter of Pierce and Nannie (Wright) Vires. On November 2, 1960 in Bourbon, Indiana, she married Bishop Richard A. Ritter Sr. He preceded her in death on January 22, 2022.

Annetta had worked as a seamstress for many years at Hart, Schaffner and Marx retiring from there and later worked at Life Care Center of Rochester. She was a member of the Apostolic Pentecostal Church and is remembered as a caring mother, grandmother, and great grandmother. She enjoyed sewing, watching Hallmark Movies, reading, and was a fan of country music especially, Elvis Presley, Randy Travis, Hank Williams and Willie Nelson.

Survivors include her children, Damita Jo Taylor, Lake Station, Indiana, Richard A. (Mary) Ritter Jr., Rochester, Indiana, James Ritter, Logansport, Indiana, Stephen Paul (Kim) Ritter, Kewanna, Indiana, Marcus A. (Companion Amy Dingess) Ritter,  Laketon, Indiana, twelve grandchildren, twenty two great grandchildren, sister, Betty Houin, Argos, Indiana, Deloris Doody, Culver, Indiana, brothers, Haroldean Vires, South Bend, Indiana, Pierce Vires Jr., Argos, Indiana, Bernard Vires, Argos, Indiana, Larry (Rhonda) Vires, Argos, Indiana, several nieces, nephews and cousins. She was preceded in death by her parents, brothers, James Arthur Vires, Ewen Vires, Charles Vires, sister, Rhoda Hensley, grandchild, Anna belle Ryleigh Ritter, and son-in-law, Donald Taylor.

Funeral services will be conducted at 10:30 A.M. Thursday May 25, 2023 at Zimmerman Bros. Funeral Home, Rochester.

Friends may visit from 4:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. Wednesday and one hour prior to service Thursday at the funeral home.

Burial will be in the Tippecanoe Cemetery, Tippecanoe, Indiana.

Memorial contributions may be made to a non-profit American Indian School.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.zimmermanbrosfh.com

Dennis E. Pitcher, 82, of Winamac, passed away surrounded by his family on Monday, May 15, 2023. 

He was born on May 15, 1941 in Stevens Point, WI to the late Glen L. and Lahoma N. [Skoor] Pitcher.  On August 16, 1986, Dennis married the love of his life, Elizabeth “Ann” Cottrell in Winamac. 

Dennis was a lifelong truck driver, having worked for Galbreath and later DH&W in Winamac.  He was a former member of the Masonic Lodge, Shriners, and Eagles.  Dennis was an amazing craftsman who enjoyed woodworking and carving.  He collected vintage items with history behind them.  He was always willing to help anyone in need (including family home remodel jobs).  Dennis enjoyed fishing and spending time with his best friend and wife, Ann.

Dennis was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.  He touched many lives and will be greatly missed. 

He is survived by:

Elizabeth “Ann” Pitcher, Wife

Irene (Bob) Surma, Daughter

James (Chris) Pitcher, Son

Dennis C. (Stella) Pitcher, Son

Betty (Steve) Winn, Step Daughter

Bob (Tammy) Lovely, Step Son

16 Grandchildren

21 Great Grandchildren

Carol (Jerry) Stackhouse, Sister

Connie (Bob) Brady, Sister

June (Chuck) Peterson, Sister

Janet Amick, Sister

Several Nieces and Nephews

Preceded in death by:

Glen L. and Lahoma N. [Skoor] Pitcher, Parents

Tammy Lee Pitcher, Daughter

Roy Lynn Lovely, Step Son

Donna Pratt, Sister

Arnold Pitcher, Brother

Nialetta “Edie” Hall, Sister

Eugene Pitcher, Brother

Linda George, Sister

Clayton Pitcher, Brother

Visitation will be from 5-8 PM EDT Thursday, May 18, 2023 at Frain Mortuary in Winamac, IN.

Funeral Services will be held at 11 AM EDT Friday, May 19, 2023 at Frain Mortuary in Winamac, IN.

Burial will take place at Bell Center Cemetery in Bell Center, IN.

Memorial Contributions may be made to the family.

Online Tributes may be offered at www.frainmortuary.com.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Frain Mortuary in Winamac, IN.

Patricia “Pattie” Jean Hollister (Shepherd) peacefully departed this life on May 13, 2023 with family by her side.

She was born on August 26, 1963 in Warsaw, Indiana.

The beloved wife of Alan Earl Hollister for 38 years and mother to daughters Sarah Whetstone, Stacy Meppen (Jesse), Hannah Hale (Jordan), and Abbey Melander (Tyler). She was preceded in death by her Mother Charlene (Junkin) Hoffman, stepfather Paul Hoffman, brother Rick Shepherd and Father Albert Dawson. She is survived by 10 grandchildren; Levi, Rosie, Abraham, Everly, Hallie, Boston, Magnolia, Benson, Ellie, Millie.

Her beautiful life will forever be cherished by her husband Alan Hollister, and four daughters; 10 grandchildren; sisters Cheryl Shepherd Blair and Kathy (Shepherd) Cox; brothers Bobby Dawson and Mike Shepherd; and 10 nephews and 6 nieces as well as those she loved and cared for as a home daycare provider for over 30 years and was affectionately called “Nonnie.”

Pattie was an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, Logansport Ward. Her creative and generous spirit touched the lives of so many people wherever she went. Food was her love language; her ability to whip up a delicious meal was her super power. She loved serving others. A frequent visitor of Akron for 17 years, residing for the past four, Pattie quickly found her niche, integrating herself within the community and serving food with a smile at Jonesy's Junction, sharing her love and light with everyone she met.

The funeral service will take place at 11:00 am, Friday, May 19, 2023 at Hartzler Funeral Home 305 West Rochester Street Akron, Indiana with Bishop Heywood officiating.

The interment will take place in the Akron Cemetery, Akron, Indiana following the service.

Visitation will be held from 10 am to the time of the service at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions can be made in her memory to Hartzler Funeral Home P. O. Box 856, Akron, IN 46910 with a memo line, directed to the family of Pattie Hollister.

Richard Lee Teel, of Mentone, passed away and went to be with the Lord on May 17, 2023 after a four year battle with dementia.

Richard, also known as Dick, was born August 15, 1944 to Herschel and Mary (Witham) Teel. Dick was the middle son of five boys.

On June 6, 1964 he married Janie Newton, the love of his life and best friend. They shared 60 years together.

Dick and Janie have three daughters, Debbie, Brenda, and Heather. They also had a beloved son Scott, who passed away at 18 years old in a heart-breaking accident. Dick was also blessed with six grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

He was a 1962 graduate of Mentone High School. Dick was a dedicated employee at RR Donnelley’s for 43 years, before retiring in 2006. Throughout Dick’s life, he enjoyed bowling, hunting for mushrooms, collecting coins, watching the Cardinals, rooting for the Bears, fishing, mowing, and taking annual trips to Florida and fishing trips to Wisconsin.

Dick and Janie loved watching their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren in all of their activities, birthday parties, sporting events, and family get-togethers. Dick was a devoted family man who loved his wife and children with all he had. Everything he did, he did for them. He was generally a quiet man, selfless, funny, loving, and generous. He never missed a birthday or anniversary of his dear wife, Janie.

Dick also had his little Yorkie, Dori, currently 17, with whom he loved. They took daily rides around the countryside looking at cattle. Dick and Janie were members of Riverview Community Church. They both have a strong faith in the Lord and know they will be reunited again in Heaven with all their loved ones, which gives comfort to our broken hearts.

Richard is survived by his wife, Janie of 59 years, Brothers: Jim (Barb) Teel Warsaw, Dave (Lou) Teel, Beaver Dam; Daughters: Debra (DeWayne) Doty, Winamac, Brenda Miller, Winona Lake, Heather Teel, Kokomo; Grandchildren: Michael (Whitney Frey) Doty, Benjamin (Laura) Doty, Sarah (Logan) Kreft, Sydney Miller, Macy Miller, and Josie Miller; Great grandchildren: Dylan, Brantley, Braden, Lillian, Clayton, and Leah; and many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents Herschel and Mary Teel; Brothers Larry and Tom Teel; Son in law Todd Miller; Beloved son Scott.

The funeral service will take place at 11:00 am, Tuesday, May 23, 2023 at King Memorial Home 101 North Tucker Street Mentone, Ind. with Pastors Rod Ruberg and Steve Wilhelm officiating.
 
The interment will take place following the service in the Sycamore Cemetery of rural Mentone, Ind.
 
Visitation hours will be from 5 pm to 8 pm, Monday, May 22, 2023 at King Memorial Home, Mentone, Ind.

Teresa Renee (Brown) Friend left this Earth on Friday evening, May 12, 2023 at 9:22 pm due to a sudden illness.

Teresa was born in Monroe, LA. on October 8, 1964 to James Edward Brown and Sharon Faye (Bass) Brown. Teresa spent her formative years in North Louisiana and she graduated from West Monroe High School in 1982.

Teresa entered the United States Marine Corps in 1989 and was stationed in Beaufort, SC at the MCAS Beaufort and was honorably discharged in 1994. During her time in service she met her husband, Joesph L. Friend, who survives, and they were married on February 18, 1994. After being discharged from the Marine Corps, Teresa and her husband, Joe, moved to the Anderson area where Teresa spent 12 years working for the State of Indiana Corrections as a corrections guard, a control officer and an investigator.

She then graduated from IVY Tech and began a career in the medical field as a Certified Medical Assistant. She had to retire from this field in 2021 due to her bout with breast cancer. Teresa and her husband moved to Kewanna, IN in 2016 and she loved living on her mini farm with her husband and animals. Teresa was a fierce lover of her children, her grandchildren, her family and her friends, she loved animals passionately and she was always quick with a laugh and a smile.

Teresa was preceded in death by her parents James and Faye, as well as several aunts, uncles and cousins.

Surviving Teresa are her husband and their daughters: Haley Renee Brown of Anderson, IN; Hannah Leigh Friend of Gainesville, FL; and Rachel Elizabeth Friend (fiancé James Elias) of Hachinohe, Japan. She is also survived by her brothers, Timothy Russell Brown (fiancée Ashley Horstkamp) of Fairview, MO and Terry Randall Brown (fiancée Tess Johnson) of Calhoun, LA. She is also survived by 3 grandchildren, Colton Steel Kiefer, Jaxton Allen Kiefer, and Haven Renee Kiefer, all of Anderson, IN. She is also survived by her in-laws, Thomas and Pamela Friend of Anderson, IN, 6 nieces, Chelsea, Caidy, Kelsea, Rebekah, Josey, and Wiley, as well as a nephew, Kyle as well as brother-in-laws Greg Friend of Nashville, TN and Brad Friend (Celeste) of Galesburg, IL. She also is survived by many cousins and friends whom she loved dearly.

There will be no service or viewing.

There will be a Celebration of Life that will occur in August and details will follow to family and friends when that is scheduled.

Arrangements  by Zimmerman Bros. Funeral Home, Rochester, Indiana.

Beatrice Joyce Hensley, known to all as Joyce, 87, passed away on Mother’s Day, May 14, 2023, surrounded by her loving family. 

Joyce was the Co-Founder of Hensley Fabricating & Equipment Co. in Tippecanoe, Indiana. 

She was born to Edwin and Pearl (Edwards) Hall of Tippecanoe in 1936.  Joyce met Paul Hensley in 1955 and were married soon after and remained in their loving and committed marriage for 58 years.  She and Paul had four children: Gregg and Robin (Harley) Hensley of Tippecanoe, Pamela and Calvin Pennington of Montpelier, Ohio, Paula and Dale Poisel of Tippecanoe and Susan Hensley of Bourbon.  She was preceded in death by her husband, her sister Delia and her parents. 

Joyce was the loving grandma of 12 grandchildren and 26 great-grandchildren. 

Paul and Joyce loved to travel.  Together, they travelled across the United States and parts of Canada.  She and her two sisters, Nora Mae (McMillan) and Delia (Keene), also loved to travel together.  They would often travel together in their motorhome as well as taking cruises to various parts of the world and always enjoyed each other’s company.

Joyce was a wonderful cook and always made sure that a hot and delicious dinner was always on the table for Paul and the children and grandchildren.  She made the best pies including her world-famous Apple Pie.  When asked what her recipe was, she said she didn’t have one and you just put in “a little of this and a little of that.” 

Every year in the fall, the entire family would go family camping at Tippecanoe State Park.  It was always so much fun and something that the entire family looked forward to every year.  She also loved her dogs, especially her dachshunds.  In the last few years, her dog was a rescue, a Chihuahua named Dolly Rebecca which never left her side in the last few weeks prior to her passing. 

Paul and Joyce started Hensley Fabricating & Equipment Co. in 1962.  During their first 2 years, they ran the company out of the former blacksmith shop of Ed Hall, Joyce’s father.  They designed and manufactured feed milling and grain handling equipment and installations and sold them around the Midwest.  They transition to building bulk feed bodies and trailers in the late 1980’s.    The feed trucks and trailers were a huge success, and now are sold all across North and South America and various parts of the world.

Paul and Joyce attended The Church of Jesus Christ of Argos since the early 1970’s.  Together they loved the Lord and gave Him glory and honor for all the blessings that he bestowed on them in their personal and business affairs.  Joyce was very adamant in supporting causes that protected the rights of the unborn and the fight against abortion, including the Right to Life and other Pro-life organizations.

The family would like to send a special thanks to the Hospice Nurses and Home Healthcare aides, Mel, Laura and Romona, for taking such good, loving care of our beloved Mother and Grandmother these last few months.  She will be greatly missed by her friends and family.

Friends may visit with the family on Thursday May 18, from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. at the Church of Jesus Christ, 15676 Michigan Rd., Argos, Indiana.

Funeral Services will follow at 12:00 p.m. at the church with Travis Hensley. Burial will follow at the Tippecanoe Cemetery, Tippecanoe, Indiana.

Memorial Contributions may be made to: Center for Hospice Care; 112 S. Center St. C, Plymouth, Indiana 46563   

Arrangements have been entrusted with the Earl-Grossman Funeral Home, Argos, Indiana

Allan Lee Van Dalsen 75, passed away unexpectedly December 24, 2022 at his home in Goodyear, Arizona.

Allen was born in Rochester, Indiana to Richard Van Dalsen and Annabelle (Zolman) Van Dalsen. His early education was in Macy, Indiana until the family moved to Rochester, Indiana where Allan graduated from Rochester High School, participating in Baseball, Basketball, Senior Sales, Lettermen’s Club, Pep Block, Track, Weight Lifting, Intramurals and Play Crew.

He married Carol (Miller) Van Dalsen and three daughters were born of that union, Andrea, Ali, Angela.

Alan proudly served in the United States Army in Vietnam, and was awarded a Purple Heart, Air Medal, Vietnam Campaign Metal, Vietnam Service Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge, National Defense Service Medal and ARCOM W/V for exceptional service of Heroism with Valor.

He lived many years in Punta Gorda, Florida, Virginia Beach, Virginia, and Goodyear, Arizona.

Allan’s great passion was his study and vast knowledge of nutrition, vitamins and supplements and helping people with their desire to understand the benefits on a journey to better health.

He enjoyed watching Notre Dame, football, men and women’s basketball, and being an arm chair quarterback as well as a side line coach and reviewing in slow motion controversial plays or calls with his brother, Rich.

He took great pride in landscaping his yard, building flowerbeds and gardening. Having to rise before sunrise to beat the afternoon heat in Arizona to keep it all looking perfect.

Because he lived a great distance from his family, he spent a great deal of time on the phone daily talking to his daughters, grandchildren, mother, brother and his cousin Harry Dee Van Dalsen of Macy, Indiana.

Allan is preceded in death by his baby brother, Michael, and father, Richard Van Dalsen.

Left to survive are his wife, Alba Van Dalsen, Goodyear, Arizona, mother, Annabelle (Zolman) Van Dalsen (James) Deluca, Port Charlotte, Florida, daughters, Andrea Yeargin, Ali Kosicki of Rochester, Indiana, and Angela Van Dalsen, Florida, grandchildren, Zachary (Haley) Rogalski, Cody Kosicki, Lexis Van Dalsen, Berkley and Belle Van Dalsen, great grandchildren, Ashton and Landon Rogalski, Ava and Avery Van Dalsen, brother, Richard (LuAnn) Van Dalsen II, Niles, Michigan.

Military burial will be conducted at 11:00 A.M. Monday, May 15, 2023, at the Plainview Cemetery, Macy, Indiana.

Arrangements by Zimmerman Bros. Funeral Home, Rochester, Indiana.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.zimmermanbrosfh.com

Charles “Charlie” Jackson, 52, of Rochester, was surrounded by his loving family when he passed away at 1:32 AM on Thursday, May 11, 2023 at Lutheran Hospital of Fort Wayne.

On May 17, 1970, Charles Arthur Jackson was born in Rochester to Donald Ray and Carole Louise Ogle Jackson. Growing up he shared his childhood with a sister, Elizabeth. He was member of Class of 1989 at Rochester High School.

Even though he hardly ever caught anything, Charlie loved to go fishing in the area watering holes. Many will remember him cruising around town on his power chair. While at home he enjoyed cooking. His spaghetti and meat balls were delightful, and his cheesecake was mouthwatering.  He collected Star Wars memorabilia and was an avid Star Wars fan.

For several years, Charlie worked at Kroger's in a variety of roles. He enjoyed meeting new people as a cashier at Kroger’s.  He attended of St. John Lutheran Church of Rochester.  His most favorite title was Uncle Charlie as he loved spending time with Sophia and Wyatt.

Left to cherish Charlie's memory are his mother, Carole Dale; sister, Elizabeth Mae Kapp and husband Michael; niece, Sophia Kapp; nephew, Wyatt Kapp all of Rochester; grandmother, Gracie Jackson of Akron; roommate, Cheryl Hamilton; canine companion, Dobbie Minerva a Chihuahua and his feline companion, Luna a black domestic short hair.

Preceding Charlie in death are his father, Donald Jackson; grandparents, Delores and John Ogle and  great-grandparents Maye and Charlie Ogle.

A celebration for the life of Charles A. Jackson will be at 12 noon on Thursday, May 18, 2023 in the Good Family Funeral Home, 1200 West 18th St., Rochester.

Pastor Jim Dillinger will officiate.

Friends may visit with the family two hours prior to the service in the funeral home.  

Interment will be in the Mt Zion Cemetery. 

Jeannette G. [Pfledderer] Zaring, 92, of Mulberry, formerly of Monon, and Monticello,  went home to be with the Lord on Monday, May 8, 2023. 

She passed away peacefully at Mulberry Health - having moved there from Glasswater Creek Assisted Living in Lafayette, IN.  Jeannette was born on April 14, 1931 in Rensselaer, IN to the late George C. and Marie L. [Remm] Pfledderer. 

She graduated from Francesville High School in 1950.   On October 3, 1958, Jeannette married William C. Zaring in Winamac, IN.  He passed away on April 1, 2010.

Jeannette attended the Methodist Church.  She worked at Alloy Rods in Monticello from 1969-1984.  After her time there, she worked at Monticello Health Care as an aide.  Jeannette was a former member of White County AMVETS where she also worked as a custodian during her retirement years.

Jeannette enjoyed reading and dancing.  She was also an avid BINGO player and frequent winner.  Jeannette loved her family very much.  She lived a good full life.  Jeannette was the last born of 16 children and was the last to pass away. 

She is survived by:

Richard L. (Melissa) Zaring, Lafayette, IN Son

Lorena A. (Bill) Lucy, Monticello, IN Step Daughter

Martin C. Lamberti, Rockford, IL Step Son

Chris (Susan) Quade, Grandson

Amy (Patrick) Mellon, Granddaughter

Stephanie Fritz, Granddaughter

Joshua (Alyssa) Zaring, Grandson

Justin Zaring, Grandson

8 Great Grandchildren: Jameson, Jonathon, Isabelle, Ryan, Sarah, Juvia, Samara, and Emerson

Numerous Nieces and Nephews (as well as their families)

Preceded in death by:

George C. and Marie L. [Remm] Pfledderer, Parents

William C. Zaring, Husband

Kathrine Beckhoff, Granddaughter

William H. Pfledderer, Brother

Kathrine L. Rosenkranz, Sister

Albert G. Pfledderer, Brother

Paul F. Pfledderer, Brother

Roy Pfledderer, Infant Brother

John C. Pfledderer, Brother

Marie M. Spaeth, Sister

Ann T. Henzler, Sister

Adam R. Pfledderer, Brother

Clara M. LaHue, Sister

Robert H. Pfledderer, Brother

Raymond E. Pfledderer, Brother

Leslie E. Pfledderer, Brother

Donna R. Faris, Sister

Alice M. Kopka, Sister

Graveside Services will be held at 11 AM EDT Monday, May 15, 2023 at Roseland Cemetery in Francesville, IN with Pastor Trey Garner officiating.

Burial will take place at Roseland Cemetery in Francesville, IN.

Memorial Contributions may be made to White County AMVETS.

Online Tributes may be offered at www.frainmortuary.com.

Cremation Arrangements have been entrusted to Frain Mortuary Querry-Ulbircht Chapel in Francesville.
 

Helen L. Peters, 94, of Winamac, went home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, May 9, 2023.  She passed away peacefully at Hickory Creek in Winamac. 

Helen was born on October 8, 1928 in Winamac to the late Carroll H. and Esther K. [Wiesjahn] Skinner.  She grew up in rural Harrison Township and lived her entire married life within a mile of where she was raised.  Helen attended Fairview School and graduated from Winamac High School. 

She was a founding member of Tippecanoe Twirlers and the Twilight Twenty Home-Ec Club as well as a 50 year Member of Tippecanoe Chapter #96 OES.  Helen was a lifelong member of Pleasant Hill Church where she faithfully played the organ for over 60 years. 

Helen married the love of her life, Willard H. Peters, on December 5, 1948 at Pleasant Hill Church.  He passed away on September 14, 2019. They raised three daughters who brought them great joy.  In their later years, Helenand Willard enjoyed traveling all over the United States.  They took numerous bus trips to places like toBranson, MO and Washington, D.C.  On their first flight, they flew to Australia to visit their exchange student, Ann Palfreyman Houston.   Their most cherished trips were to Redbird Mission and Henderson Settlement in Kentucky where they served the Lord as missionaries.  Helen and Willard treasured time spent with their grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Helen had previously worked as a teller at First National Bank in Monterey as well as a cook at the Pulaski County Jail in Winamac.  She enjoyed quilting, spending time at Lake Bruce, and baking pies.  Most of all, Helen loved to serve the Lord by serving others.  She will be dearly missed but forever remembered.

She is survived by:

Connie (Don) Reid, Star City, IN Daughter

Joan (Ray) Schultz, Medaryville, IN Daughter

Linda (Dan) Ruhl, Star City, IN Daughter

11 Grandchildren

32 Great Grandchildren

1 Great Great Granddaughter

Several Nieces and Nephews (and their families)

Preceded in death by:

Carroll H. and Esther K. [Wiesjahn] Skinner, Parents

Willard H. Peters, Husband

Will Powlen, Infant Great Grandson

Harry C. (Belva) Skinner, Brother

Marion G. (Leona) Skinner, Brother

Visitation will be from 4:00-8:00 PM EDT Monday, May 15, 2023 at Frain Mortuary in Winamac, IN.Eastern Star Services will held at 3:30 PM Monday at the funeral home.

Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 AM EDT Tuesday, May 16, 2023 at Pleasant Hill Lake Bruce Community Church in Lake Bruce, IN with Chaplain Todd Wilson officiating.  Additional Visitation will be one hour prior to services at the church Tuesday.

Burial will take place at Pleasant Hill Cemetery in Lake Bruce, IN.

Memorial Contributions may be made to Pleasant Hill Cemetery Maintenance Fund or a charity of the donor’s choice.

Online Tributes may be offered at www.frainmortuary.com.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Frain Mortuary in Winamac, IN.

Melissa “Mae” Agee, 71, of Winamac, passed away at 2:22 a.m., Friday, May 5, 2023 at Pulaski Healthcare Center in Winamac.

Born on December 18, 1951 in Pulaski County, she was the daughter of the late Willie and Julie (Bailey) Agee.

Melissa was a former member of the Indiana National Guard. She also formerly worked at Arby’s in Winamac.

Melissa, “Mae Mae” to many, loved unicorns and children. She enjoyed crocheting also.

She was a member of the Gospel Lighthouse Church in Delong.

Survivors include her sisters, Delores “Lorsie” Stone (Jimmie) of North Judson, Bonnie Zimmerman (Thomas) of North Judson and Peggy Mays of Plymouth, brother, Jed Agee (Dorothy) of Lalanto, Florida and many nieces and nephews.

She was also preceded in death by her sisters, Dorothy “Dot” Rose and Arlett Hiese and brothers, Earden Agee, William Riley Agee and Richard Agee.

Services will be held at 1:00 p.m., Saturday, May 13, 2023 at the Gospel Lighthouse Church, 5823 Center St., Delong, IN. 46922 Visitation will be from 11:00 a.m. -1:00 p.m. at the church.

Burial will be at Winamac Cemetery.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Rans Funeral Homes & Crematory, Harrison Chapel, Royal Center.

Melissa’s online guest book is available and condolence can be shared with the family at www.ransfuneralhomes.com

Marsha Gene (Justus) Davis, 75 of Plymouth, and formerly of the Argos community passed away on May 6, 2023, at 2:10 a.m. at Miller's Merry Manor, Plymouth, Indiana.

On October 23, 1947, in Greene County, Indiana she was born to Harley A. Justus and Rachel Eleanor (Richardson) Justus. She has lived in Marshal County most of her life.

Marsha worked at Ristance Corporation as a wire harness assistant. She was a graduate of Argos High School with the class of 1966. She loved doing crafts, cross stitch, and needle point. Marsha loved her feline companion, Lucas.

Marsha is survived by her daughter – Ronda L. Rice and husband Jeff of Argos, Indiana; Son – Craig Davis of Nappanee, Indiana

4 Grandchildren – Adam Calhoun and wife Lindsey, Ryan Calhoun, Kari Mullins, and Sydney Rice

Great Grandchild - Stetson    

Sisters – Judith Justus of Argos, Indiana; Lea Ann Chamberlin of Plymouth, Indiana

She is preceded in death by her Parents,

Friends may visit with the family on Thursday May 11, 2023, from 1 p.m. – 3 p.m. at the Earl-Grossman Funeral Home, 208 N. Michigan St., Argos, Indiana. 

Funeral Services will follow at 3:00 p.m. at the funeral home with Chaplain Tim Lee.

Private Graveside services will be held at Maple Grove Cemetery, Argos, Indiana

Memorial Contributions may be made to, Marshall County Humane Society, PO Box 22, Plymouth, Indiana 46563

Dennis J. Kercher, 55, Macy, passed away at 9:45 p.m. on Tuesday, May 2, 2023, at Woodlawn Hospital, Rochester.

Born July 4, 1967, in Rochester, Indiana, he was the son of Forrest J. and Janet (Wilhelm) Kercher, who survive and reside in Macy.  He is also survived by one brother, Jason Kercher, Macy.

Dennis was a graduate of North Miami High School and was a lifelong farmer in the North Miami community.  He enjoyed being outdoors.   

He was preceded in death by his grandparents.   

Visitation will be from 2-3:00 p.m. on Monday, May 8, 2023, at McClain Funeral Home, Denver.  The funeral procession will leave immediately after the visitation time for a graveside service at Plainview Cemetery, Macy, Indiana, with Chaplain Jason See officiating.  

McClain Funeral Home, Denver, Indiana, has been entrusted with arrangements.  Condolences may be sent online at www.mcclainfh.com.