Obituaries

Barbara J. Hero, 79, of Winamac, IN

Barbara J. Hero, 79, of Winamac, IN died at home on Thursday, February 27, 2020.  She was born on December 27, 1940 in Hornersville, MO to the late Ira C. and Mary E. Martin Duncan.  On May 12, 1962, Barbara married Ronald L. Hero in Dowagiac, MI.  They shared 57 years of marriage.  Barbara was one of Jehovah’s Witnesses and dedicated most of her life to talking to people about the Bible.  She loved her family and will be dearly missed. 

 

She is survived by:

Ronald L. Hero, Winamac, IN Husband

Linda (Clifford, Jr.) Minter, Winamac, IN Daughter

Darryl (Berronica) Hero, Winamac, IN Son

John Hero, Kokomo, IN Son

9 Grandchildren

11 Great Grandchildren

1 Great Great Grandchild

David (Penny) Duncan, Dowagiac, MI Brother

Several Nieces and Nephews

 

Preceded in Death By:

Ira C. and Mary E. Martin Duncan, Parents

Freeda O’Neal, Sister

Coy Duncan, Brother

Mozelle Smith, Sister

Trudie Edwards, Sister

 

Private Family Graveside Services will be held at the Winamac Cemetery in Winamac, IN. 

Burial will take place at the Winamac Cemetery in Winamac, IN.

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

David Edwin Woods, Jr, 79, of Rochester

David Edwin Woods, Jr, 79, of Rochester, passed away at 12:38 AM, Thursday, February 27th, at Parkview Regional Medical Center of Fort Wayne.

On June 12, 1940, in Lake County, David was born to David E. Sr. and Elizabeth Shaw Woods.

David and Donna K. Malott were married on July 16,1960 in Lake County. They have shared nearly 60 years of life’s adventures.

David is lovingly remembered by his wife, Donna, a daughter, Donna Ethel Woods Newman and husband Kerry  of Kewanna;   a son, David Woods III and wife Deborah of Argos; three grandchildren, Heather Nicole Woods Corn and husband Brian, Kyle D. Newman and wife Anna,  Karena D. Newman; one great granddaughter, Isabel Jane Newman; a great grand dog, Derby the White Toy Poodle, three sisters, June Dyer  of Chesterton; Beth Grant and husband Mark of Chesterton; Mary Clark and husband Mark of Ocala, FL; a brother, Tom Woods and wife Sandy of Cedar Lake and several nieces and nephews.

Preceding David in death are his parents, son, Elmer P. Woods born into Heaven   and brothers Jimmy Woods and Denton Woods.

A celebration of the life of David E. Woods Jr. will be at 1:00 PM on Sunday, March 1, 2020 in the Good Family Funeral Home, 1200 West 18th St., Rochester. Friends may visit with the family from 4-7 PM on Saturday, February 29, 2020 and one hour prior to the service in the funeral home. A Masonic service will be at 6:30 PM on Saturday.

Interment will be the Rochester IOOF Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to the Rochester Park Bench Fund, 320 Main St., Rochester, IN 46975.

Electronic expressions of sympathy may be made to his family at www.goodfamilyfh.com.

Berniece  Bitterling 91 of Rochester

Berniece  Bitterling 91, was surrounded by her loving family when she passed away at her home on February 22, 2020 .

 

On October 29, 1928,  Berniece Rookstool was born northwest of Rochester in Richland Township.  She was the treasured daughter of Clayton and Celia Bradway Rookstool.  Growing up she shared her childhood with two brothers Kenny and Carl.  Berniece graduated from Richland Center High School in 1946.

 

With a strong work ethic, Berniece blended her days with a great love for her family, raising her six wonderful children and being dedicated with a passion for farming.  A great role model she taught them methods to live off the land.  Each spring she planted a truck patch garden.  About the same time she could be seen atop her Minneapolis Moline G-1000 turning the soil preparing it to plant the crops.  The Bitterling farm was home of a variety of livestock including a fine herd of  sheep that Berniece adored.  There was Gertrude the cow, a Jersey who supplied them fresh milk.  

 

For decades, Berniece served the Mike Horn Family as house manager and caregiver.  She was a member of the Mt. Hope Church and volunteered for the Historical Society for many years being recognized once as the volunteer of the year.  She also enjoyed reading to elementary students.

 

To relax Berniece enjoyed taking golf cart rides  and walking with Coco her tan and black canine custom blend, her partner in crime.  Grandma Berniece was the glue of the family and remained vibrant her entire life. SO very proud of her legacy and overseeing four generations, at age 90 she could be seen with family kayaking down the Tippecanoe River or across Lake Manitou. She especially found joy in sitting around the bonfire or cooking out and telling stories reminiscing about the earlier years.

 

 

Left to cherish Berniece's memory are six children: Virginia Banning and husband Richard of Plano, IL, Joy Braun and husband Tony of Rochester, Jill Wallace and husband Walt of Warsaw, Michael Bitterling, Jeff Bitterling, Greg Bitterling and wife Suzie all of Rochester. 7 grandchildren: Clay Bitterling and   wife Sheena, Garrett Bitterling and fiancee McKayla Casu, Patrick  Banning and wife Amber, Brenda Banning, Beth Wallace, Morgan Bitterling and Kaitlyn Stamberger and husband Tim; 7 great-grandchildren Emmett, Evelyn, Solomon, MacKenzie, Cody, Kage and Kennedy and her treasured canine companion Coco.

 

Preceeding Berniece are her parents Clayton and Celia Rookstool,  2 grandchildren Billy Banning, Kathy Wallace, 2 brothers Kenneth Rookstool and Carl Rookstool.

 

A life celebration for Berniece Bitterling, with a time to share stories and visit with her family will be held at the Fulton County Historical Society Museum 37-E  375-N  Rochester, IN  46975, on Monday, March 2, 2020, from 2:30 - 6:00 PM.  Memorials in lieu of flowers may be made to the Fulton County Historical Society or Kindred Hospice  1476-W 18th Street, Rochester, IN  46975.  The Good Family Funeral Home is honored to care for her family.  Online expressions of sympathy may be made to her family at www.goodfamilyfh.com 

Prince Gardner Jr, 68

Prince Gardner Jr, 68 was born on January 1, 1952 in Montgomery, Alabama, the son of Prince Sr. and Maggie Lee (Harris) Gardner. (Prince Gardner Sr. preceded him in death).  

Prince was the first of ten children.  He and his parents moved to Chicago, Illinois in 1953, there he attended Burnside Elementary Scholastic Academy, Chicago, Illinois until his family moved to Rochester, Indiana in 1968.

Prince graduated from Culver Community High School, in Culver, Indiana on 1970 and had worked at the Culver Military Academy.  Prince grew up knowing about God.  At the age of nineteen, he accepted a job with General Motors in Detroit, Michigan, working there for over thirty years before retiring in 2009.

The oldest of ten, he led by example in helping on his grandparents and parents farms along with his other siblings by planting various crops and attending to the many animals on the farms. Prince was faithful to all the things he did.  He loved to work outside doing landscaping for family and friends.

Prince was a very loving and caring soul, a gentle giant and had a very infectious smile.  He loved his family and took every opportunity to be close to them.  If he heard family was coming in from out of town he would always be one to join and fellowship with them during their visit.  Prince enjoyed helping other people.  He loved watching sports, old westerns and action movies. 

In October 2019 Prince moved to Indianapolis, Indiana to be closer to his mom and sibling’s family. There he enjoyed celebrating Thanksgiving, Christmas and his own New Year’s Day birthday party.  His 1st ever birthday party with his family where he cried tears of joy.

During this time, his mother was in constant prayer with him to give his life and soul over to Jesus.  His mom and family took care of Prince and loved on him.

Prince confessed Christ early morning on January 29th, 2020 with his family.  On February 15, 2020 God called Prince home.  The Lord came to welcome him into his loving arms.

Leaving to cherish his fond memories are his mother, Maggie Lee Gardner, (Rochester, Indiana), his son, Prince Gardner III, (Detroit, Michigan), siblings, Gladys (Tommy) Hamer, (Atlanta, Georgia), David Gardner, (Chicago, Illinois), Melinda (Raymond) Salary, (Michigan City, Indiana), Jerome (Annetta) Gardner, (St. Louis, Missouri), Patricia (Jerry) Booth, (Indianapolis, Indiana), Glen Gardner, (Rochester, Indiana), Juanita Gardner, (Indianapolis, Indiana), Duane (Vanessa) Gardner, (Indianapolis, Indiana), Elizabeth Coffey, (Indianapolis, Indiana), and a host of nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

Funeral homegoing services will start at 11:00 A.M. Saturday February 22, 2020 at the Pleasant Hill Missionary Baptist Church, 717 E. 10th Street, Michigan City, Indiana.

Viewing before homegoing at the church from 10:00 A.M. to 11:00 A.M. Saturday.

Repast at Michigan City Elks Lodge, 416 East U.S. Highway 20, Michigan City, Indiana, 46360, Burial will take place at 10:00 A.M. Sunday February 23, 2020 at Leiters Ford Cemetery, Leiters Ford, Indiana.

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

Nathan M. Cloud 34, Rochester, Indiana

Nathan M. Cloud 34, Rochester, Indiana, passed away at 2:48 P.M. Saturday February 15, 2020 at his residence.

He was born on January 11, 1986 in Plymouth, Indiana, the son of Michael Cloud and Sondra (Swartz) Brewer.

Nathan had graduated from Rochester High School in 2005. As one of Jehovah’s Witnesses, Nathan had full confidence in the Bible’s promise of being resurrected to an earth where God’s promise of a paradise will replace all sorrow and anguish.

Survivors include his parents, Michael and Laura Cloud, Rochester, Indiana, Sondra Brewer, Monticello, Indiana, sisters, Donna (Robert) Knowlton, Howe, Indiana, Misty Cloud, Peru, Indiana, half -sister, Amy Van Alstine, South Bend, Indiana, nephew, Sean Knowlton, Howe, Indiana, niece, Thea Van Alstine, South Bend, Indiana, grandmother, Harriett Swartz, Florida, step-grandmother, Jeannie Cloud, Rochester, Indiana. He was preceded in death by his grandparents.

A service will be held at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses 1563 N St Rd 25 in Rochester, Saturday Feb 22. Visitation will take place at 2:00 with a talk at 3:00. Burial will take place at a later date at Odd Fellows Cemetery, Rochester, Indiana.

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

Chase Michael Skalon, 32, of Francesville, IN

Chase Michael Skalon, 32, of Francesville, IN passed away on Friday, February 14, 2020.  Chase was born on July 25, 1987 in Lafayette, IN.  He graduated from West Central High School in 2006 and attended Indiana University in Bloomington, IN.   Chase was a kind-hearted soul, who enjoyed life, family, and friends.   He enjoyed landscaping work and was an avid sports fan.  The Michigan Wolverines and New England Patriots were among his favorite teams.   In recent years, he cherished a relationship with Kyndra and their children, Rhaylea and Jagger.  Chase’s family meant the world to him.  He will be truly missed by all those touched by his love and friendship. 

 

He is survived by:

Leesa & Mike Gayer, Francesville, IN Mother

Mike & Paula Skalon, Monticello, IN Father

Kyndra Holliday, Francesville, IN Fiancé

Rhaylea Riyan Holliday, Francesville, IN Daughter

Jagger Hale Skalon, Francesville, IN Son

Shauna & Travis Tiede, Lafayette, IN Sister

Cayden Tiede, Lafayette, IN Nephew

Kinsley Tiede, Lafayette, IN Niece

Travis & Bekky Garner, Winamac, IN Step Brother

Noah Garner, Winamac, IN Nephew

Talen Garner, Winamac, IN Nephew

Tyler & Samantha Garner, Casselberry, FL Step Brother

Zelda Garner, Casselberry, FL Niece

Easter Marie Taylor, Winamac, IN Paternal Grandmother

Many Aunts, Uncles and Cousins

 

 

 

 

 

 

Preceded in death by:

Autumn Dawn Skalon, Sister

Max & Beverly Odom, Grandparents

Leopold Skalon, Grandfather

Keith Taylor, Step Grandfather

Louis & Wanda Gayer, Step Grandparents

Charles & Fay Frakes, Step Grandparents

Kevin Max Odom, Uncle

Raymond Lee Skalon, Uncle

 

Private Services will be held at Frain Mortuary Querry-Ulbricht Chapel in Francesville, IN with Pastor James Ketchen officiating. 

 

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

 

Memorial Contributions may be made to the Chase Skalon Memorial Account at any Alliance Bank location.  This Memorial Account is being established by the family for Chase’s children. 

 

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

 

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

Floyd "Jay" Wireman, Jr., 73, of Knox, IN

Floyd “Jay” Wireman, Jr., 73, of Knox, IN passed away Thursday, February 13, 2020 at Memorial Hospital in South Bend.  Jay was born on May 29, 1946 in Salyersville, KY to the late Floyd and Goldie Wireman Wireman. He moved to Indiana with his family as a child.  Jay was a welder for many years at Allis Chalmers in LaPorte, IN and also worked as a welder in the oil fields in Louisiana.  He lived in Seattle, WA before moving back to Indiana to retire.  He enjoyed vegetable gardening and canning, but his favorite thing to do was fish.  Jay attended the Medaryville Assembly of God Church. He was a kind man who never knew a stranger. Jay will be sadly missed by all who knew and loved him.

 

 

He is survived by:

Laura (Travis Whitlock) Wireman, Lafayette, IN Daughter

Randal Wireman, Medaryville, IN Son

7 Grandchildren

2 Great Grandchildren

Betty Jo (David) Williams, Medaryville, IN Sister

Donna Wireman, Medaryville, IN Sister

Several Nieces and Nephews & Great Nieces and Nephews

Numerous Cousins

Ed and Pam Sparks, Knox, IN Special Friends

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Preceded in death by:

Floyd and Goldie Wireman Wireman, Sr., Parents

Diana Hendershot Wireman, Former Spouse

Opal Clark, Sister

Ethel Wireman, Sister

Jean Ann Wireman, Sister

Mac Arthur Wireman, Brother

James Wireman, Brother

Alice Fay Wireman, Infant Sister

Patsy Sue Wireman, Infant Sister

Auadeen Wireman, Infant Sister

Henry Wireman, Infant Brother

 

Visitation will be from 3-5 PM EST Monday, February 17, 2020 at the Assembly of God Church in Medaryville, IN.

 

A Memorial Service will be held at 5 PM EST Monday, February 17, 2020 at the Assembly of God Church in Medaryville, IN with Pastor Tom Dewlen officiating.

 

Private Burial will take place at White Post Cemetery in Medaryville, IN.

 

Memorial Contributions may be made to the family.

 

 

Online condolences may be offered in the guestbook at www.frainmortuary.com.

 

Arrangements have been entrusted to Frain Mortuary Querry-Ulbricht Chapel in Medaryville, IN.

Elizabeth A. Weldon, 69, of Winamac

Elizabeth A. Weldon, 69, of Winamac passed away at 10:15 a.m., Monday, February 10, 2020 at her residence surrounded by family.

Born on September 12, 1950 in Downingtown, Pennsylvania, she was the daughter of the late Theodore and Catherine (Stringer) Bauer.

On May 14, 1983, she married Richard A. Weldon at St. Bridget’s Catholic Church in Logansport, IN. In the years that followed she became a member of St. Peters Catholic Church, enthusiastically tended her vegetable garden, colored the farm with many beautiful flowers, learned to make wine, spent the evenings with her crochet, and raised her children with a happy, generous heart.

She is preceded in death by 2 brothers and survived by her husband, Richard, her children: Lisa, Genevieve, David, Emmy, Jacob, and Lukas, and by her 7 grandchildren.

A Rosary Service will be at 9:30 AM, Saturday, February 15, 2020 at St. Peters Catholic Church in Winamac followed by a Memorial Mass at 10:00 AM.

Memorial contributions may be made to the family to help cover funeral costs and/or the Red Cross.

Please sign Elizabeth’s online guestbook or leave a condolence for the family at www.ransfuneralhomes.com.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Rans Funeral Homes & Crematory, Harrison Chapel, 304 S. Chicago St., Royal Center.

 

Michael D.  Shafer, 57 of Rochester

Michael D.  Shafer, 57 of Rochester passed away 2:31 PM on Tuesday, February 11, 2020 at his residence.  He had been in failing health.

On February 21, 1962, Michael David Shafer was born in Los Angeles County , CA to Peter Stanton and Penni Lee Zilhaver Shafer. Growing up he shared his childhood with three brothers Mark, Dan and Rob.  As a Zebra he enjoyed a stellar career as a member of the  RHS men's golf team. In 1980 he graduated from Rochester High School.

For many years Mike was the assistant professional at Polly's Plantation & Golf Country Club, Polly's Island, South Carolina.

Left to cherish Mike's memory  are four children including twin daughters, Erin Phillips and husband Al of Walhalla, SC, Amanda Wahley and husband Pat of Lufoff, SC,  a son Andrew Shafer and wife Andrea of Spartanburg, SC, and daughter Megan Kicklighter and husband Davie of West Columbia, SC; three brothers: Mark Shafer  and wife Brenda of Bondurant, Iowa, Dan Shafer and wife Jenny, and Rob Shafer, all of Rochester; and the mother of his children, Lee Ann Gerrich Shafer, of  Rochester.

Preceding Mike in death are his parents Pete and Penni Shafer.

A celebration of Mike's life will be held later this year.  

Sharon Doran, 84, formerly of Burket, Indiana

Sharon Doran, 84, formerly of Burket, Indiana passed at 8:30 pm, Tuesday, Feb. 11, 2020 at her son’s residence.

Sharon was born on Aug. 3, 1935 in Warsaw, Indiana to the late E. Ward and Phyllis (Hire) Williamson.

She married on Nov. 2, 1957 in Burket to Marshall Brooke Doran, he preceded her in death on Aug. 7, 2015.

Survivors include her son Trent Doran of Claypool, Ind., a grandson Keagan and wife Brittani Ann Doran, and a great granddaughter Marleigh.

Preceding her in death are her parents and her husband. 

No service will be held at this time.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Hartzler Funeral Home 305 West Rochester Street Akron, Indiana.

To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Sharon L. Doran please visit our Sympathy Store.

William E. "Bill" Gearhart, 91, of Akron, Indiana

William E. "Bill" Gearhart, 91, of Akron, Indiana left to be with his Lord on Friday, Feb. 7, 2020.

Being 1 of 18 children, Bill understood what it meant to be a family. Growing up together in a big household, Bill and his siblings have many stories to share of mischief, laughter, and lots of love. Still carrying on the Gearhart legacy are his sisters, Dorothy, Ruth, Sharon, and Joan, and his brothers, Larry and Roger.

In February of 1951, Bill married Phyllis Gearhart, whom he loved dearly. They planted roots in Akron where they shared their life and love with 3 wonderful daughters, Lynne (Larry) Kline, Janice (James) Saner, and Patti (Robert) Newman, whom all still live close by.

Of all the things he had done, he was most proud of his daughters and their families. He was faithful at stopping by for a quick visit, showing up on every family birthday, and listening to or watching various sporting events while cheering on his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Helping to carry on those traditions are grandchildren Bridget (Chuck) Bussard, Melissa (David) Belcher, Keith (Dacy) Newman, Tara Ott, Andrew Parker, Kristen (Tracy) Horrell, Jayme (Ashton) Patterson-Boocher, Amy Craig, Kayla (Kris) Hughes, and Alex (Breanna) Newman, along with 20 great-grandchildren and 3 great-great grandchildren.

Bill served in the US Army during the Korean War. He was proud of his duty and service to the country. Upon returning home, he began working on the Erie Lackawanna railroad and fondly recalled his days of hard work. He was proud to be such a part of history.

After his days on the railroad, Bill took up construction. He began building many houses in Akron, all which still look beautiful today and are a reminder to family and friends of his craftsmanship and legacy.
In his later years, Bill also shared his life with his partner, Sue Daine, where he raised large gardens of vegetables and fruit to share with others, much like his parents did when he was growing up.

He loved in such quiet ways, unless it was rooting on his faithful Cubbies or Indiana Hoosiers. You never talked to Bill or stopped by for a visit without a sports game being heard loudly throughout the house. Bill also had a fondness for taking his chances at scratch-off tickets and the casino.

Bill was a master gardener. He was known for his many rows of vegetables that he not only ate himself, but gave away to family and friends. Most people would find a pint or two of tomatoes or a couple dozen ears of sweet corn sitting on their front porch steps and they knew that Bill had been there.

Bill was a giver. He helped his friends, his neighbors, and his family. Whether it was showering his family with an abundant amount of gifts for Christmas when the grandchildren were little, or showering anyone with vegetables, or conversation, or a game of cards, or the simple candy dish that sat on his side table, he showed his love best when he gave to others.

Family and friends may stop by and share their love and memories of Bill on Sunday, February 16 from 1 pm to 3 pm at the Akron Community Center 815 Rural Street Akron, Indiana. A Memorial Service will follow at 3:00 pm with military honors performed by the Fulton County Honor Guard. Memorials may be made in Bill’s memory to Tippecanoe Valley Middle School Viking Vittles Program.

Arrangements are entrusted to Hartzler Funeral Home 305 West Rochester Street Akron, Indiana.

Judith E. "Judy" Stinemetz, 77, of Winamac, IN

Judith E. “Judy” Stinemetz, 77, of Winamac, IN passed away unexpectedly on February 8, 2020 at Pulaski Memorial Hospital in Winamac.  She was born on August 30, 1942 in Winamac to the late Harold and Iris Fern Kersey Shannon.  Judy graduated from Winamac High Schooligh High Sch in 1961.  On June 23, 1984 Judy married George Joseph Stinemetz. George survives.

Judy was retired from Pulaski Memorial Hospital after 37 years. She had worked as the Dietary Manager and Environmental Services Manager.  She was currently employed at Refined in Winamac.

She had a lifelong history as a volunteer.  Judy managed the food pantry at Pulaski County Human Services, and served on the Hospital Auxiliary and the VFW Auxiliary . She had served as bartender and bar manager at the Winamac Moose for many years. She was a member of the Eagles in Winamac. Judy was active in the Winamac High School Alumni organization. She was active in Republican Party politics in Pulaski County and had served as an election officer for many years. She often volunteered for fund raisers in the community. Judy received the HJ Halleck Community Service Award in 2015.

Judy enjoyed raising flowers, playing cards and spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren.

She was a wonderful caregiver to her husband George.

 

She is survived by:

George Stinemetz,  Husband

Burke (Sonya) Tarble Lt Col, Retired, Son

Brenda (Robert Coble) McIntosh, Daughter

Gerry Jo (Kenny) Whitehead, Daughter

Missy Rehm, Daughter

Susan (Paul) Stearns,   Daughter

Mike Stinemetz, Son

14    Grandchildren

16    Great Grandchildren

Joan Ryder, Sister

Jack (Brenda) Shannon, Brother

Several Nieces and Nephews

 

Preceded in death by:

Harold  and Iris Fern Kersey Shannon, Parents

Daniel Reedy, Grandson

Alivia Stahl Great-grand Daughter

Julia Shannon Sister

Betty McCord, Sister

Janet Willis, Sister

Jerry Shannon, Brother

 

Visitation will be  from 3-8 PM EST on Tuesday, February 11, 2020 at Frain Mortuary in Winamac, IN.

 

Funeral services will be at 11 AM EST on Wednesday, February 12, 2020 at Frain Mortuary in Winamac, IN with Rev. Michelle White officiating.

Burial will be in the Mt. Zion-Franklin Township Cemetery in Winamac, IN.

Memorial Contributions may be made to Cystic Fibrosis Foundation in memory of Daniel Reedy.

 

Online Tributes may be offered at www.frainmortuary.com

 

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

Jeff Good, 56, Rochester, Indiana

Jeff  Good was surrounded by his loving family when he passed away at 2:59 PM at his home.  This followed a fierce yet valiant battle with cancer for the past 19 months.
 

 

On September 8, 1963, Jeffrey Duane Good was born in Rochester's Woodlawn Hospital.  He was a treasured son of Junior D. and Joyce A. Burkett Good. Growing up as the youngest of the Good kids, he shared his childhood with Jeri, Jon and Jayne.  With fleet feet he ran for the Zebras' cross country and distance events in track.  His cross-country team mates nick-named him Cecil, a name he still answers to today.  Jeff was also a member of the Zebra swim team swimming distance events and as a member of the relay teams.  He graduated from Rochester High School in 1982.

 

During his early years Jeff was an avid skier who enjoyed pushing himself to negotiate great challenges.   On  Lake Manitou  he was a talented bare foot skier executing   perfect beach starts, jumping out of his skis and enjoyed taking flight off the  big jump.  As a motorcycle enthusiast, he owned a couple of Harley's, finding great joy with the freedom a great ride would bring on a warm summer day.

 

On November 1, 1986, Jeff married Sandy Scherbing at the Grace United Methodist Church.  From their union came four handsome sons, Landon, Layton, Jeffrey II and Jakob.  The family tree continued to grow with the added blessings of  grandchildren Larson and Laylynn.

 

An avid sportsman, Jeff always followed the Chicago Bulls, Cubs and Bears, the Indianapolis Colts and all Notre Dame teams. Jeff, Jon, Loren and his Dad J.D.  witnessed the Chicago Bulls ring celebration following their first championship during the Michael Jordan years.  In recent years Jeff became a Boston Red Sox fan,  cheering for  them at Ft. Myers during spring training.  Jeff's memberships include the Fraternal Order of the Eagles # 852, Manitou Moose Lodge  # 1107, Sons of the American Legion Post # 36 and the Manitou VFW  Post  # 1343.

 

With a strong work ethic instilled by his Dad, Jeff began his work career while in the single digits helping his Dad sweeping the walks daily and washing cars at Foster & Good Funeral Home.  In the early years it was natural as he resided in the upstairs of the funeral home with his family. During his RHS years worked at Kroger's as a stocker and carryout.  Jeff  worked for the concrete division of McMahan - O'Connor's bridge crew for many years,  and as a full time fireman for Rochester Fire Department for 8 years.  As an entrepreneur, Jeff founded the Good and Sons Concrete.  Skilled with the abilities to finish concrete to perfection he poured basements, flatwork and custom jobs.  During his career he built four homes during the winters.  He returned to the funeral home to assist with comforting families and working meticulously to keep the premises up to the family standard.

 

 

Jeff's recent stint with Leading Edge Fabrication of Milford  was another job  he expressed true passion, working as a fabricator of countertops, fireplaces and other custom work utilizing granite and quartz.  He truly loved and appreciated his L.E. family team.  With his illness, he was unable to work consistently with the demands of the treatments, tests and medical care.  He returned to the funeral home filling many gaps and during specialty work like power washing, painting, tinkering with the cars and clearing the fence rows that were overgrown.

 

 

In a nearly fatal motorcycle accident while traveling to work at L.E. in the early morning hours on July 11, 2016,  Jeff's faith was solidified by surviving the accident.  Prior to this he established a daily routine  taking time for  spiritual study by reading the Bible,  daily devotions, the works of Joyce Meyer and Tim Tebow, while he was  a resident of the Serenity House in Warsaw.

 

 

In July of 2018 Jeff was given a grim diagnosis, with no chance to neutralize the cancer only to be  given comfort and palliative care. Jeff was showered with many prayers over the last 19 months allowing him to enjoy many things including the birth of his granddaughter, watching Larson's soccer games, more time to fish with the boys, overseeing more LG Concrete jobs, cruising the waters on Lake Manitou with Bailey Mae, riding around in the early morning with Bailey to bring fresh donuts to his Mom.   He planted a beautiful truck patch garden and shared the harvest with family and friends, helped Larson pick pumpkins, hunted mushrooms and enjoyed early Sunday morning drives and  driving around looking at the twinkling Christmas lights.  Jeff and our family are grateful to the Parkview Cancer Center Care team for their professional and state of the art cutting edge, medical care to extend his life.  The team dubbed Jeff as the "Miracle  Man, " a title he truly appreciated.

 

During his lifetime Jeff was an accomplished chef, making many specialties that were in demand by his family including delicious chili, Italian spaghetti, sloppy and joes.  As a grill-master he made amazing burgers, steaks and chicken.  Jeff deep fried turkey, fresh fish he and the boys caught and alligator tails.

 

Known to his grands as  Grandpa Cee-zee he was delighted with their visits, celebrating special family events and the holidays.  In the earlier years  his sons  enjoyed many family vacations,  spring break at Treasure Island, visits to Cedar Point, Brown County, Disney World and packing up the car and heading north to  German Lake in Cleveland, MN for fishing trips.

 

 

Remembering Jeff are four sons: Landon J. Good and companion Lexie Olinger, Layton J. Good and wife Shana Jo, Jeffrey D. Good II and companion Emily Tyler and Jakob D. Good;   two grandchildren: Larson Thomas Good (4), Laylynn Jo Good (3 mo), his mother Joyce A. Good, sister Jeri D. Good and brother Jon D. Good;  2 nieces Corinna Jayne Ann Good and Cassidy Jo Good, mother of his sons Sandy Good, treasured canine companion, his  partner in crime the rescued Australian  Cattle Dog blend Bailey Mae.

 

Preceding Jeff in death are his father J.D. Good, October 18, 2005, sister Jayne Ann Good, July 11, 1983, grandparents Otis and Beulah Burkett, O'Dell and Bessie Good and his miniature Schnauzers  Elvis, Patty and Pepper.

 

A celebration of the life of Jeff D. Good will be at 1:00 PM Sunday, February 9,  2020 in the Good Family Funeral Home, 1200 West 18th Street, Rochester.  Friends may visit with his family on Saturday, February 8 from 4:00 - 8:00 and an hour prior to services.  Teri White will officiate.  Burial will follow in the Rochester IOOF Cemetery.  Preferred memorials may be made to Fulton County H.O.P.E.  P.O. Box 735, Rochester, IN  46975  or The Jayne A. Good Memorial Scholarship Fund thru the Northern Indiana Community Foundation  227  East 9th Street, Rochester, IN  46975.  Online expressions may be made to his family at www.goodfamilyfh.com

Robert W. Weaver, 87, of Rochester

Mr. Robert W. Weaver, 87, of Rochester, was surrounded by his loving family when he passed away at 3:10 AM, Sunday, February 2, 2020 at Woodlawn Hospital.

 

On July 26, 1932, Robert William Weaver was born in Gary.  He was a treasured son of  Earl L. and Mary Catherine Considine Weaver. Growing up he shared his childhood with a sister and four brothers.  In 1950 Bob graduated from Gary Wirt High School where he was a stellar athlete playing football and running track as a Trooper.  In 1955 he graduated from Indiana University, Bloomington with a bachelor's degree in business marketing.

 


At Lake Station, Bob and Elizabeth "Betty"  Jean Donaghey were married on July 30, 1955.  They enjoyed 42 years of life's adventures.  From their union came six wonderful children.   The family tree continued to grow with the added blessings of  two more generations.  Sadly, she passed away on February 2, 1998.

 

Bob answered the call to serve our country as a member of the United States Air Force ROTC. He was commissioned as a 2nd Lt. upon graduation.   His tour of duty included a stint of service during the Vietnam War as he flew over 200 missions on board the RB - 57 as a  reconnaissance navigator and camera operator. Prior to that he served as navigator on the Boeing B - 52 bomber.  His career spanned from  1956 - 1977  when he was honorably discharged as Lt. Col. Robert W. Weaver on April 1, 1977 from Grissom AFB.

 

 

On July 13, 2001, Bob and Nancy Taylor were married.  They enjoyed 18 years of many good times, making memories.  Their blended family added two daughters.   Bob and Nancy enjoyed hosting many special family celebrations from their Lake Manitou home.

 

A man of strong faith, Bob was a devoted member of the St. Joseph Catholic Church for more than four decades.  Other memberships include the Knights of Columbus, Rotary Club, Manitou Moose Lodge and the Elks Lodge all of Rochester.

 

Left to cherish Bob's memory are  his wife, Nancy; children, Kathy Good and husband Brad of Rochester;  Rick Weaver and wife Ashley of Walton, Mike Weaver and wife Barb of Noblesville, Dan Weaver and wife Judy of Kokomo, Tom Weaver of Carmel,  John Weaver and wife Amy of Menomonee Falls, WI, Kelly Hiatt and wife Lauren of Indianapolis,  Keri Calhoun of Indianapolis; 21 grandchildren, Cory, Casey, Maggie, Libby, Ryan, Justin, Brandon, Ben, Kelly, Autumn, Allison, Aaron, Austin, Lily, Nate, Jack, Quinn, Kira, Ellie, Hiatt, and Cameron; eight great-grandchildren, Brionna, Bella, Jaydon, Amelia, Aiden, Bailey, Charley, Palmer; sister, Judy Lewis of Columbus OH; two brothers, Bucky Weaver and wife Marge of Amelia Island, FL, Tom Weaver of Rochester and several nieces and nephews.

 

Preceding Bob in death are his parents Earl and Catherine Weaver, wife Elizabeth "Betty", two Weaver brothers, Jim and Dicky as a toddler and great grandson Jaxon.

 

A Mass of Christian Burial will at 11:00 AM on Saturday, February 8, 2020 in the St. Joseph Catholic Church of Rochester. Friends may visit with the family from 4-7 PM, Friday, February 7, 2020 and from 9:30-10:30 on Saturday in the Good Family Funeral Home, 1200 West 18th St., Rochester.

The Fulton County Veterans Honor Guard and the Wright Patterson Air Force Base Honors Team will conduct graveside military rites.  Interment at Rochester IOOF Cemetery.   Memorials may be made to St. Joseph Catholic Church, 1310 Main St. Rochester, IN 46975 or Compassionate Care Health Center  740 N. State Road 25, Rochester       Electronic expressions of sympathy may be made to his family at www.goodfamilyfh.com.

Sharon R. Witt, 76, of Sebring, FL

Sharon R. Witt, 76, of Sebring, FL (longtime resident of Francesville, IN) passed away on January 24, 2020.  She was born on August 1, 1943 in Culver, IN to the late Lawrence and Martha Welch Lindvall. She married Norman Witt on July 14, 1962.  They owned Witt Insurance Agency in Francesville and were both very active in the community for over 35 years.  Norman passed away on May 3, 2016.

 

Sharon enjoyed living in Sebring for the past 20 years and never knew a stranger. She loved to dance, socialize, and enjoyed the warm sunshine. She always had a smile and will be missed. 

 

 

She is survived by:

Rebecca (David) Baker, Daughter

Allen (Jane) Witt, Son

5 Grandchildren: Christopher Baker, Nathan (Hannah) Baker, Lauren Baker, Sarah Witt and Emma Witt 

Janet Lindvall, Sister-in-law

Barb Donley, Sister-in-law

John Banning, Brother-in-law

Dorajean Keller, Sister-in-law

Many Nieces and Nephews

 

Preceded in death by:

Lawrence and Martha Welch Lindvall, Parents

Larry Lindvall, Brother

Doug Lindvall, Brother

Marsha Banning, Sister

 

 

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at a later date this summer. 

 

Private Entombment will take place at Roseland Cemetery in Francesville, IN. 

 

Online Tributes may be offered at www.frainmortuary.com

 

Local Arrangements have been entrusted to Frain Mortuary Querry-Ulbricht Chapel in Francesville, IN.

David B. Frazier, Sr., 55, of Winamac, IN

David B. Frazier, Sr., 55, of Winamac, IN (formerly of North Judson, IN) passed away on Monday, February 3, 2020 at Porter Regional Hospital in Valparaiso, IN.  He was born on December 16, 1964 in Huntington, IN.  David attended North Judson High School.  He worked most of his life as a truck driver.  David was a member of Free United Baptist Church in North Judson.  He was an avid pool player and enjoyed playing his guitar. David loved his dog, Sugar Poo, who went everywhere with him.  More than anything, he loved his children and grandchildren very much. 

He is survived by:

David B. (Kennedy Grandstaff) Frazier, Winamac, IN Son

Shayla (Devan) Northcutt, Winamac, IN Daughter

Makenzie (Michael Kellems) Frazier, Star City, IN Daughter

3 Grandchildren: Brayden, Josephine and Hannah

Janet Colleen (John) Farman, Florida  Sister

Tim Frazier, Arizona  Brother

Dale (Judy) Frazier, Florida  Brother

Lori (Don) Smith, Indiana  Sister

Several Nieces and Nephews

Traci (Tammi) Smith, North Judson, IN Former Spouse

 

Preceded in death by:

James (Alma) Frazier, Father

Phil (Tina) Frazier, Brother

Larry Frazier, Brother

 

Visitation will be from 5-6 PM EST Friday, February 7, 2020 at Free United Baptist Church in North Judson, IN.

Services will be held at 6 PM EST Friday, February 7, 2020 at Free United Baptist Church in North Judson, IN with Pastor Ed Trusty officiating.

Memorial Contributions may made to funeral home to assist the family with final expenses.

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

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

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