Willis Wayne Gudeman, 92, a lifelong farmer from Francesville, IN went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Tuesday, May 26, 2020.  He passed away peacefully at Franciscan Health Hospital in Lafayette, IN.  Willis was born on March 11, 1928 in Francesville to the late Samuel Seth and Kathryn Ann Frey Gudeman.  At the age of 19, Willis committed his life to the Lord and was baptized in the Francesville Apostolic Christian Church.  Willis loved his church family and had a passion for teaching Sunday school. 

Willis served overseas in the US Army during the Korean War.  He was a member of the Francesville American Legion Post #228. 

On April 11, 1954, Willis married Margaret Stefan in Francesville.  He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather.

Willis enjoyed restoring International Harvester tractors.  He was a hardworking, kind, compassionate, and faithful Christian man.  Willis loved the Francesville community and never knew a stranger.  He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. 

He is survived by:

Margaret Stefan Gudeman, Francesville, IN Wife

Dale (Peg) Gudeman, Francesville, IN Son

Doreen (Barry) Steffen, Silver Spring, MD Daughter

Debra (Don) Nuest, Francesville, IN Daughter

Donna (Mike) Putt, Francesville, IN Daughter

Andria (John) Sprunger, Granddaughter

Grant (Cara) Gudeman, Grandson

Darin (Arial) Gudeman, Grandson

Heidi (Ben) Swakopf, Granddaughter

Hilary Nuest, Granddaughter

Erica (Kirk) Huber, Granddaughter

David (Sierra) Putt, Grandson

Thomas Putt, Grandson

Brandon (Hailey) Putt, Grandson

10 Great Grandchildren

Marcella Gudeman, Francesville, IN Sister-in-law

Several Nieces and Nephews

Preceded in death by:

Samuel Seth and Kathryn Ann Frey Gudeman, Parents

Wendell Gene Gudeman, Brother

Hermine (Karl) Pister, Sister-in-law & Brother-in-law

Visitation will be from 4-8 PM EDT Friday, May 29, 2020 at Frain Mortuary Querry-Ulbricht Chapel in Francesville, IN.

Private Funeral Services will be held at Apostolic Christian Church in Francesville, IN with the Ministers of the Church officiating.

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

While the wearing of facial coverings is no longer required by our local government, the state recommends the wearing of facial coverings and the implementation of social distancing.  If you have questions or concerns, please call the funeral home at 219-567-9551.

Memorial Contributions may be made to Apostolic Christian Church HarvestCall disaster relief. 

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

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

Warren W. “Bill” Schmal, 70 of Leiters Ford, passed away at 2:17 AM, Tuesday, May 26, 2020 at Parkview Hospital of Wabash.

In Hammond, on November 22, 1949, Bill was born to Donald Lewis and Marilyn Jean Winkler Schmal.  Bill moved to Leiters Ford in 1968 from Lansing, MI

Bill answered the call of patriotism and served in the US Army from January 1970 -January 1972, leaving with an honorable discharge.

Bill and Mary E. Smith were married on July 30, 1990 in the Great Smokey Mountains of Tennessee after a long-distance relationship.  They shared 28 years of life’s adventures. Sadly, she passed away on March 24, 2018.

As the owner operator of Schmal’s Auto Repair of Leiters Ford, he served the Fulton County community since 1973. He was the Vice President of the Indiana Truck Pullers Association.  His truck, “Weezer”, was named after his wife, using her nickname. Mary was known for her vocal support and was an avid fan of the truck pullers.

Bill is lovingly remembered by a son, Shawn Schmal of Rochester, step- two daughters, Jacqueline Sutton and husband Eddie of Georgia, Cassandra Green and husband Jimmy of Ohio;  one granddaughter, Morgan Schmal of Rochester, seven step grandchildren,   Joshua, Eric, Haley and James Green of Ohio, Myranda, Aaron and Chase Sutton; sister, Cathy Verbeek  and husband Gordon; two brothers, David Schmal,  Scott Schmal and wife Debbie and several nieces and nephews.

Preceding Bill in death are his parents.

A memorial service will be held at a later date. Good Family Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements.

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

Willard C. “Buck” Koebcke, 92, a longtime resident of Francesville, IN went Home to be with the Lord on Saturday, May 16, 2020.  He has lived the past four years at Fox River Apartments in Olney, IL.  Buck was born on March 13, 1928 in Pulaski County, IN to the late Joseph and Flora Kaupke Koebcke.  He served in the US Army.  On December 31, 1951, Buck married the late DeMaris Bailey in Jeffersonville, IN.  He was a devoted member of the Francesville First Christian Church.  

Survivors include:

Jackye (Blaine) Hites, Olney, IL Daughter

Ellen (Harv) Gutwein, Francesville, IN Daughter

Nicole (Robert) Schwartz, Peru, IN Granddaughter

Holly (Shannon) Blank, Olney, IL Granddaughter

Heather (Kevin) Cox, Munster, IN Granddaughter

Summer (Karl) Schippert, Evansville, IN Granddaughter

Stuart (Alivia) Gutwein, Lafayette, IN Grandson

Lance (Erica) Gutwein, Francesville, IN Grandson

Tyler (Lacie) Gutwein, Francesville, IN Grandson

19 Great Grandchildren

2 Great Great Grandsons

Sam (Rachel) Koebcke, Alabama Brother

Kay Koebcke, Florida Sister-in-law

Janelle Tiede, Francesville, IN Sister-in-law

Preceded in death by:

Joseph and Flora Kaupke Koebcke, Parents

DeMaris Bailey Koebcke, Wife

4 Brothers and 4 Sisters

Private Burial will take place at St. James Salem Cemetery in Francesville, IN with Pastor James Ketchen officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Fox River who provided several years of loving care to Buck.  Checks may be made to Caritas and mailed to Fox River at 1016 Parker St. Olney, IL 62450.

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

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

Gerald L. “Jerry” Ash, 81, of Kewanna, IN went to be with the Lord at 11:32 PM on Thursday, May 14, 2020 at the Auburn Village Skilled Nursing Facility in Auburn, IN.  He was born on October 21, 1938 in Winamac, IN to the late Argyl and Kathryn Graffis Ash.  Jerry graduated from Winamac High School in 1956 and earned his Bachelor’s Degree at Indiana State University in 1961.  Jerry married Judith Lebo on February 5, 1961 at the Methodist Church in Winamac, IN.

He taught at Willowdale Elementary for four years.  Willowdale was the smallest elementary in the Elkhart school system.  He was teacher and coach to fifth and sixth graders.  One of those years his team won the city championship.  While teaching, he was a candidate for “Teacher of the Year”.

He went on to work at CTS Corporation in Elkhart for 14 years as personnel director.  While employed there he was voted “Boss of the Year” by the American Business Women’s Association.

After leaving CTS he was employed by Miles Laboratories which later became Bayer Cooperation. He served as a human resources director/security in their diagnostic division.  For many years, he also coordinated their executive development program, a joint venture with the University of Notre Dame.  He retired from Bayer Corporation in 2000.

Jerry served on the following boards:

Elkhart Industrial Club, President

Elkhart Career Center (also teaching a class at night)

United Way, Chairman

Penn-Harris-Madison School Corporation, Board Member (16 years)

Penn-Harris-Madison School Corporation, President (7 years)

St. Paul’s United Methodist Church Elkhart, Board of Trustees

Granger Community Church, Administrative Board

Lake Bruce Association, Board President

Mahseh Center, Board of Directors

Newmar Kountry Klub, Indiana State Director (with wife Judy for 2 years)

After retirement, Jerry and Judy traveled extensively in their motor home. They moved to Lake Bruce, IN from Granger, IN in 2006.

Jerry loved the Lord and his family.  He loved telling his made up stories of “Sarah and Levi” to his grandchildren and playing catch with his grandsons.  After having brain surgery in 2013, his struggles were many.  But, he fought the good fight. We love you Jerry, Dad, and Grandpa; God loves you more. You will be greatly missed.  We will see you again in Heaven.

“The eternal God is your refuge, and his everlasting arms are under you” – Deuteronomy 33:27

He is survived by:

Judith Lebo Ash, Kewanna, IN  Wife

Greg (Sue) Ash, South Bend, IN  Son

Brian Ash, South Bend, IN Son

7 Grandchildren:

Teigan Ash, Mishawaka, IN  Granddaughter  

Macenzie Ash, Bloomington, IN Grandaughter

Haley Ash, Granger, IN Grandaughter

Madison Ash, Granger, IN Grandaughter  

Wyatt Ash, South Bend, IN Grandson

Brodie Ash, South Bend, IN Grandson

Dane Jordan, South Bend, IN Grandson

Judy (Steve) Skersick, Greenwood, IN Sister

Preceded in death by:

Argyl and Kathryn Graffis Ash, Parents

Visitation will be from 3-8 PM EDT on Thursday, May 21, 2020 at the Frain Mortuary in Winamac, IN.     

Funeral Services will be held at 10:30 AM EDT on Friday, May 22, 2020 at Frain Mortuary in Winamac, IN. 

Burial will take place at Saint Joseph Valley Memorial Park in Mishawaka, IN at 2 PM EDT Friday, May 22, 2020.

Memorial Contributions may be made to Focus on the Family.

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

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

*Due to COVID-19 restrictions, visitation will be limited to groups of ten guests and social distancing.  You may sign up for visitation at www.frainmortuary.com or by calling the funeral home at 574-946-3222.  While there are no longer limitations on the number of guests for funeral services, social distancing must be observed at all times.

Doyle Ray Dinkens, 79, of Indianapolis, IN (formerly of Francesville, IN) passed away on Monday, May 18, 2020 at Franciscan Health Hospital in Indianapolis, IN.  Doyle was born on May 21, 1940 in Lutesville, MO to the late Roy W. and Lovie Oletha Dinkens.  He was a longtime Industrial Arts Teacher at North Judson-San Pierre High School, having retired in 1998.  Doyle was a devoted member of the Francesville Lion’s Club and the Francesville First Christian Church.  Most recently, Doyle attended Franklin Park Church on the south-side of Indianapolis with his family.  His Christian faith was a very important part of his life, and he tried his best to be in church every Sunday.  Doyle was an avid woodworker and was very proud of his workshop and his collection of tools.  He enjoyed talking about all things Northwest Missouri State (his alma-mater) and their football team.  He loved being a grandpa to two sweet boys who will miss him very much.  Doyle had a joy for life; he loved to smile and find ways to make those around him smile as well.  His family is thankful that he is now free from sickness and is home with Jesus. 

He is survived by:

Michael Dinkens, Hobart, IN Son

Bryan (Kimberli) Dinkens, Greenwood, IN Son

Katie (Cedric) McConnell, Fountaintown, IN Daughter

Erin Donnelly, Lafayette, IN Step Daughter

2 Grandchildren - Ezra & Aiden Dinkens

Dale Dinkens, Indianapolis, IN Brother

Mary Bierly, Walkerton, IN Sister

Several Nieces and Nephews

Preceded in death by:

Roy W. and Lovie Oletha Dinkens, Parents

Steven Dinkens, Son

Jill Roth, Step Daughter

Visitation will be from 11 AM – 2 PM EDT Saturday, May 23, 2020 at Frain Mortuary Querry-Ulbricht Chapel in Francesville, IN.

Private Services will be held at Frain Mortuary Querry-Ulbricht Chapel in Francesville, IN with Rev. Todd Yates (of Franklin Park Church in Indianapolis) officiating.

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

Memorial Contributions may be made to Franklin Park Church in Indianapolis.

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

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

James R. Shanklin, Sr., 86, of Logansport, IN passed away at 10:40 PM Saturday, May 16, 2020 at home.

Arrangements are pending at Frain Mortuary in Winamac, IN.

Patricia “Patty” Dolores Bloch, entered the kingdom of our Lord, Friday, May 15th at 8 PM. Patty resided at Hickory Creek Healthcare in Winamac at the time of her passing and spent the last 20 years as a proud member of the Francesville community. Born in 1938, to the late Alton C. and Anna Marie Wien, of Detroit, MI, Patty was a true “Michigander” and loved all things Great Lakes - especially waves crashing and seagulls. In 1995, she retired from the Parkside Credit Union in Michigan and began making plans for her life after retirement. Patty has numerous family members, especially her grandchildren, who would like to express their sincerest thank you’s to the phenomenal staff at Hickory Creek - and for the care and compassion that was made available to Patty and the family during her last years.

“Our Memaw may have forgotten us in the end, but we will never forget her, or her beautiful soul.”

Survived by 10 grandchildren and their families:

Rachael Bloch & Monica Spurlin - Daughters of Cheryl (Bloch) Spurlin

Kelly Bloch - Daughter of Jeffrey Bloch

Raymond Bloch III, Samantha Bagley, Justin Braden, Amanda (Aeron) Jimenez, April

Bloch & Amy Bloch - Sons & daughters of Raymond Bloch II

Also, numerous great grandchildren, nieces, nephews and other loving family members.

Preceded in death by:

Father - Alton C. Wien

Son - Jeffrey Bloch

Mother - Anna Marie Wien

Daughter - Cheryl (Bloch) Spurlin

Brother - Joseph William “Bill” Wien”

Son - Raymond D. Bloch II

Granddaughter - Trisha Spurlin

A Memorial Service will be at 2 PM EDT on Saturday, June 6, 2020 at Frain Mortuary in Winamac, IN.

Entombment will be at Roseland Cemetery in Francesville, IN.

Memorial Contributions may be made to Hickory Creek Healthcare in Winamac, IN. 

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

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

Betty Jane Mahoney, age 90, died on May 14, 2020 at 11:15 a.m. at Hickory Creek at Rochester nursing home where she resided.

She was born on August 1, 1929 in Akron, Indiana to Guy and Faudaline (Geiger) Hill.

Betty graduated from Akron High School in 1947. 

Betty married Lawrence R. “Mike” Mahoney on September 6, 1949 in Akron, Indiana.

She worked at Chamberlain Products in Akron, Indiana for 20 years.  She then as an occupation cleaned people’s houses, which she thoroughly enjoyed.

She attended the Akron Church of God for many years and then The Cross church in Rochester, Indiana.  Betty loved interacting and working with children at church.  Her grandchildren were very special to her also.  She enjoyed redoing lawn chairs with macramé.

Surviving Betty are (3) sons: Bill (spouse Nancy) Mahoney of Columbia, SC; Steve Mahoney and his fiancée Darla Johnson of Rochester, IN; Greg (spouse Mary) Mahoney of Bethlehem, GA; (2) brothers: Bill (spouse Mary) Hill of Peru, IN; Dick Hill of Florida; (8) grandchildren; (15) great-grandchildren; (3) great-great grandchildren

Preceding Betty in death are her parents, husband Lawrence R. “Mike” Mahoney (1986), brother Guy Hill and his wife Helen, brother Arden Hill, sister Geraldine E. Worl

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, graveside services will be held at a later date with burial in the Rochester IOOF cemetery in Rochester, Indiana.

For those who would like to honor the memory of Betty Mahoney, memorial contributions and be made to the Akron Church of God in Akron, Indiana and/or

The Cross church in Rochester, Indiana.

The staff of Earl-Love Funeral Home considers it a privilege and honor to care for the family and friends of Betty Mahoney.

Online condolences may be sent to earllovefuneralhome.com

Gayle A. Landis 81, Rochester, Indiana, passed away at 5:35 P.M. Sunday, May 10, 2020, at her residence.

Gayle was born in Anderson, Indiana on February 16, 1939, the daughter of Lloyd and Winfred (Davis) Fuqua and lived in Fortville, Indiana.

Gayle completed her Registered Nurse training at Indiana University and spent her career as a school nurse in Shelbyville, Indiana, then began at W.S. Major Hospital in 1972. In 1978, she was the first recipient of the Lois ‘Barney” Bryer award for outstanding service to Major Hospital. She had also worked for Doctors Inlow and Tower in Shelbyville. Gayle married Tom Landis on June 20, 1981 in Shelbyville, Indiana and relocated to Rochester, Indiana, where her nursing career continued for over twenty years at Woodlawn Hospital, followed becoming a Home Care nurse prior to her retirement in 2004. She was well loved by her many co-workers and patients.

Tom and Gayle enjoyed riding horses, camping trips, fishing, family cookouts, and were blessed to travel extensively throughout the United States. They spent almost twenty retirement winters in Fort Myers Beach, Florida, where they were equally at home with their “winter family” at Gulf Air RV Park.

Gayle was a devoted wife, mother, nurse, mentor and friend. She is survived by her husband, Tom Landis, Rochester, Indiana, daughters, Shelley (Tim) Snyder, Fairland, Indiana, Suzan (Greg) Bitterling, Rochester, Indiana, also, Rick (Diane) Landis, Macy, Indiana, Colleen Diveley, Fulton, Indiana, Larry (Greta) Landis, Rochester, Indiana, grandchildren, Ryan Snyder, Adam Snyder, Brett Snyder, Jennifer Landis, Jeremy Landis, Sommer Halterman, Jill Robinson, John Diveley, Catherine Diveley, Thomas Landis, four great grandchildren, brother, John Fuqua, Fortville, Indiana, sisters, Brenda (Dave) Ayres, Fortville, Indiana, Loisanne Williams, Bloomington, Indiana, many nieces, nephews and grand-dogs. She was preceded in death by her son, Scott Linville and her parents.

Friends may visit from 1- 6 P.M. Saturday May 16, 2020 at Zimmerman Bros. Funeral Home, Rochester, Indiana. In compliance with State Executive orders for COVID-19, no more than 25 people will be rotated in the funeral home at a time. Social distancing of six feet between visitors must be observed. Graveside services will take place at 1:00 P.M. on Wednesday, May 20, 2020, at Odd Fellows Cemetery, Rochester, Indiana. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital at www.stjude.org or through the funeral home. Online condolences may be expressed at www.zimmermanbrosfh.com

Dorothy M. Abair, 98, Plymouth, Indiana and formerly of Bremen and Rochester, Indiana, passed away at 12:30 A.M., Sunday, May 10, 2020, at Millers Merry Manor, Plymouth.

She was born on May 1, 1922 in Rochester, Indiana, the daughter of Jacob Forrest and Beulah (Joyce) Brock. On March 2, 1943 in Rochester, Indiana, she married Harold R. Abair. He preceded her in death on February 27, 1986.

Dorothy had worked at the former Torin Corporation for many years. She had been a member of the Bethlehem Baptist Church and in the early 1940’s been a pilot for Civil Air Patrol. She enjoyed birdwatching and aviation. On her 80^th birthday she got to experience her first Ultra- Light Plane ride.

 She is survived by her son, Mickey (Gabrielle) Adair, McMinnville, Tennessee, granddaughter, Miranda (Greg) Dodd, McMinnville, Tennessee, four great grandsons, two great-great grandsons, two step granddaughters, nine step great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents and sister, Marie Nier and an infant sister.

Private funeral services will be observed at Zimmerman Bros. Funeral Home, Rochester, Indiana. Burial will follow in the Odd Fellows Cemetery, Rochester, Indiana. Online condolences may be expressed at www.zimmermanbrosfh.com

Kathleen A. McGriff, 86, of Winamac, IN passed away at 2:55 AM Wednesday, May 13, 2020 at the Pulaski Health Care Center in Winamac. Kathleen was born on May 10, 1934 in Pulaski County, IN to the late Arthur and Virgie Rowles Bowers.  She was raised in Pulaski, IN and graduated from Pulaski High School. 

Kathleen enjoyed needlework, reading, and playing the piano.  She was an avid gardener; a love she passed on her to her family.  She especially enjoyed being a member of the Red Hat Society and spending time at the Von Tobel Senior Center.   Kathleen will be dearly missed.

The family appreciates the care Pulaski Health Care Center has provided Kathleen over the years.   

Survivors include:

Terry (Debra) Ruff, Star City, IN Son

Linda (Butch) Sehstedt, Winamac, IN Daughter

Keith (Carmen) Ruff, Grandson

Michael (Alison) Sehstedt, Grandson

Julie (Johnny) Tijerina, Granddaughter

Steven (Heather) Sehstedt, Grandson

Brett (Kelsie) Zellers, Step Grandson

Kyle (Sabrina) Zellers, Step Grandson

17 Great Grandchildren: Steph, Dillon, Tyler, Hollie, Grady, Adley, Bailey, Rees, Joshua, Karli, Olivia, Tate, Audrey, Lynden, Rylie, Alan, and Brooks

Preceded in death by:

Arthur and Virgie Rowles Bowers, Parents

Harold “Bud” Ruff, Former Husband

No Services will be held.

Memorial Contributions may be made to Pulaski Health Care Center.

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

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

Mrs. Linda Lee Burkett 73 of Rochester was surrounded by her loving family and friends when she passed to her eternal home early evening of May 11, 2020.

On September 22, 1946 Linda Lee Marshman was born in South Bend.  She was the treasured daughter of  Richard and Betty Fiscus Marshman. Growing up she shared her childhood with a brother Terry.  Linda graduated from John Adams High School in 1964.

When her children were nearly raised, Linda returned to school in pursuit of her life dream to become a registered nurse.  While working at Woodlawn Hospital as a licensed practical nurse she continued at Ivy Tech of South Bend to earn her registered nurse degree.  Known to her patients for her compassion and professionalism, Linda L. Burkett RN returned to Woodlawn Hospital.  She completed her nursing stint at Culver Military Academy as campus nurse.

On August 13, 1993, in Ely, Minnesota, Linda married her best friend Mr. David Burkett.  Together they shared over 26 years of life's adventures.  They enjoyed 19 annual  fishing trips to Ely, catching the limit most days.  Another adventure were excursions to Las Vegas and seeing the shows.  Her favorite was Siegfried and Roy, a show they enjoyed many times.  

To relax, Linda enjoyed many tranquil moments at the waters edge fishing or annually planting flowers to enhance the landscape with beauty and color around her home.  She delighted in a good practical joke.  Halloween was her favorite holiday,  as her costumes were the best!  Time spent with her grandchildren was the most precious.  The grandchildren spent many hours running a beauty salon, making Grammy beautiful.  She followed all of their sports and schooling making every occasion for them special!   Linda's beautiful smile enriched many lives.  She was a free spirit, devoted wife, mother, grandmother and a phenomenal and an amazing friend.

Left to cherish Linda's memory are her husband David Burkett at home, children Debra Belcher of Rochester, Andrea Harris and husband Cliff of Carmel, Terry Belcher of Cicero, her mother Betty Sloan and husband Dick, of Mishawaka, brother Terry Marshman,  South Bend; grandchildren Adrian Hogan, Breanne Paulik, Ayden Marrs, Haylin Harris, Cole Harris, Delaney Belcher and Abby Belcher; mother-in-law Margaret Burkett, brother-in-law Randy Burkett and wife Beth all  of Rochester and her beloved canine companion Red the Australian Shepherd.

Preceding Linda in death are her father Dick Marshman and father-in-law Dick Burkett.

A drive by  visitation to honor Linda will be held from 3:30 - 5:30 PM Friday, May 15 at the front entrance of the Good Family Funeral Home, 1200 West 18th Street, Rochester.  A sunset celebration of life  honoring Linda L. Burkett will be private for her family at 6:00 PM.  Friends may join the live-streamed celebration at the Facebook page   JD GOOD just prior to 6:00.  Memorials may be made to the Alzheimer's Association 225 N. Michigan Ave. Floor 17 Chicago, IL 60601  Online expressions of sympathy may be made to her family at www.goodfamilyfh.com

Fritz H. Risner Jr. 54, Rochester, Indiana, passed away on Friday , May 1, 2020, at 8:24 P.M. in Argos, Indiana.

He was born on June 16, 1965 in Winamac, Indiana, the son of Fritz and Virginia (Davis) Risner. On January 27, 1990 in Rochester, Indiana he married Tracy Potter and she survives.

Mr. Risner had worked for Pike Lumber Company in Akron, Indiana for many years and had been involved in various other businesses. He had been an active member of the Fulton County Historical Society, volunteering over the years at numerous events including the Trail of Courage. He enjoyed going to auctions, woodworking, scrapping, collecting Budweiser memorabilia, salt and pepper shakers, and Harley-Davidson Items. Most of all he enjoyed spending his time with his grandchildren.

Survivors include his children, Seth (Alecia) Templeton, Cruz Risner, Jeff Risner, Shelbie Risner, all of Rochester, Indiana, Ethan (Nicole) Hudson, Cedar Springs, Michigan, Karissa Hudson, Buchanan, Michigan, grandchildren, Xayden Risner, Zeke Templeton, Xander Templeton, Zander Templeton and Zane Templeton, all of Rochester, Indiana, mother, Virginia Risner, Leesburg, Indiana, father, Fritz H. (Patricia) Risner, Winamac, Indiana, sisters, Tammy (Tim) Tilton, Leesburg, Indiana, Sherry Risner, South Carolina, Debra (Brian) Johnson, Lafayette, Indiana, Opy Rogers, Rochester, Indiana, brother, Adam Risner, Winamac, Indiana, several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Violet Risner and brother, Dean Adams.

Due to health guide lines pertaining to the COVID-19 pandemic, private funeral services will be observed.

Burial will be in the Odd Fellows Cemetery, Rochester, Indiana. Memorial contributions may be made to the Fulton County Historical Society. Arrangements entrusted to Zimmerman Bros. Funeral Home, Rochester, Indiana. Online condolences may be expressed at www.zimmermanbrosfh.com

John Ronald Bowersox, 87, Rochester, Indiana, and longtime resident of Leiters Ford, passed away Thursday, May 7, 2020, at Woodlawn Hospital in Rochester after a brief illness. 

He was born on November 12, 1932 to Chet and Frances (Kline) Bowersox in South Bend, Indiana.  At the age of ten, the family relocated to Leiters Ford where John attended and graduated from Aubbeenaubbee Township High School.  In 1952 John married Ruth Ann Calhoun at the Leiters Ford United Methodist Church.  Together they raised their three children in Leiters Ford.  John retired from Dean’s Milk in Rochester and then enjoyed thirty years with his wife, Ruth, spending their winters in Florida.

John was an avid motorcycle enthusiast, owning and racing many bikes over his lifetime.  He was also an avid tennis player and enjoyed playing the courts in Florida and here in the Rochester area.  He enjoyed teaching both youth and adults alike the game of tennis. He was greatly honored and humbled to have a tennis court named after him in the condo area where he and wife Ruth lived in Florida. In 2015, John and Ruth moved back to Indiana and took permanent residence in Rochester, where they purchased a home.

John was preceded in death by his son, Dean John Bowersox, his daughter Doris Ann Cool, and is wife of 63 years, Ruth Ann Bowersox. Survivors include son, Dale Robert and wife Margaret of Culver, Indiana, six grandchildren, four great grandchildren, and brother, Thomas Bowersox of South Bend, Indiana, along with several nieces and nephews.

There will be no services at this time. Zimmerman Bros. Funeral Home, Rochester, has been entrusted with arrangements. Online condolences may be expressed at www.zimmermanbrosfh.com

Terry Kevin Ruby, 63, formerly of Warren, PA, passed away unexpectantly on May 4, 2020, at his home in Rochester, Indiana.  He was born in Erie, PA, on April 23, 1957, to the late Frederick M. Ruby and Bethel E. McCoy Ruby Fink.  

            He will always be remembered for his quirky sense of humor and streaks of stubbornness.  At times, he had a heart of gold and would lend a hand to others in need.  He always enjoyed visiting and talking for hours with his daughter and family.  Throughout his life, he enjoyed a variety of hobbies such as R.C. model airplanes, motorcycles, and automobiles.  His two most favorite cars he owned were a Corvette and M.G.  One of his most fascinating hobbies was storm-chasing tornadoes.  He had no fear of these monster storms and would intently watch The Weather Channel.  Whenever one was approaching, he would get in his car and drive dangerously close to them.  He was talented in music and loved playing his Gibson and Martin guitars.  There was no doubt of his talent to sing.  He was able to belt out a tune life a professional.  In addition to his hobbies, he loved roller-skating with his daughter in her younger years, which formed a strong bond of love between them.  Another of his favorites was certain foods he made a stable in his home.  They were macaroni and potato salad, cheese, pepperoni, baked beans, meatloaf, and beer.  Our family friend, Cheri, made her “famous” 3-bean casserole, which was tops on his list.  Oddly enough, when he stopped chewing on a piece of bubble gun, he saved it for the next day and placed it on his nightstand.

            He was a long-time resident of Warren, PA, and attended the former Lacy Elementary School and Beaty Jr. High School, finishing at New Castle High.  He obtained his GED and later CDL.  When he started working in his teen years, he spent his first two summers working at Kinzua Dam.  From there his working career would take him to a variety of positions with Superior Tire in Warren, Blair Corp. in Irvine, OTR truck-driving with big companies such as Schneider, TRL, and JB Hunt.  The job he held at Nuhfer’s Equipment Rental in Stoneham, was the beginning of his most “meticulous” characteristic.  He took great pride in maintaining all of their equipment in order to keep the superior quality and excellent working conditions of all their rental equipment. After Nuhfer Rental went out of business, he started with Everyday True Value Rental in Jamestown, NY, and further continued his meticulous work ethic into his final job with ABC Industries in Winona Lake, Indiana.  

            He is survived by his daughter, who was his pride and joy, Amy Ruby Winegardner and her companion, Jim Walker, Aiken South, Carolina; grandchildren, Macy, Reese, and Wyatt Winegardner, at home; three brothers, Darrell (Judy) Ruby,  Micky Ruby, John Ruby (longtime friend, Diane Sharp), all of Warren, Pennsylvania, two sisters, Brenda (Randy, Sr.) Ruby Biehls Nuhfer, Youngsville, Pennsylvania, Beth (John) Boyd, Waterford, PA; nine nieces, Missy Johnson, Sarah Biehls, Heather Ruby, Heidi Rink, and Britany Pangborn, all of Warren, PA; Olivia Nuhfer, Youngsville, PA; Nicole Nuhfer, Port St. Lucie, FL; and Mackenzie and Riley Boyd, Waterford, PA; six nephews, John Ruby, Jr., Nathan Ruby, Austin Hillyard, and Caleb Snyder, all of  Warren, PA; Randy Nuhfer, Jr., Youngsville, PA; Carter Boyd, Waterford, PA; five cousins, Jim Vitez and Milton Goerlich, Warren, PA; Sandra Geer, Winter Haven, FL; and Bonnie Tower, Jamestown, NY; and Dr. Debbie Vitez, Florida; along with several great-nieces and nephews, residing in Warren, PA.

            He was preceded in death by his parents, brother, Paul Ruby of Erie, PA, on March 24, 2016; nephew, George Biehls, Jr., on September 13, 1999; maternal grandparents, John and Dorthea Tipton McCoy, paternal grandparents, Charles and Myra Dickey Ruby; and cousin, Yvonne Conklin.

            Zimmerman Bros. Funeral Home, Rochester, Indiana has been entrusted with cremation arrangements.  Condolences may be sent through their website at www.zimmermanbrosfh.com.

            Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, a memorial service will be held at a later date.  The family suggests memorial contributions be made to your local humane society or a charity of your choice. 

            He will be laid to rest at Pine Grove Cemetery in Russell, Pennsylvania at a later date.

Mr. Ernest D.  “Ernie” Burch, 76, of Rochester and formerly of Bremen passed away at 6:20 AM on Thursday, May 7, 2020 at Life Care Center of Rochester.

On June 6, 1944, Ernie was born in Plymouth to Lawrence and Mary Senf Burch. He was one of ten children.

Ernie and Janice K. Martin were married on October 6, 1964 in Tyner. They shared 55 years of life’s adventures. From their union came 2 daughters and a son. Two more generations have been added to the family tree.

 Mississippi was their home base for several years. The family moved  back to Indiana and made the Marshall County area their home. With  failing health, Ernie moved to Rochester to live with his brother Larry.

Ernie was self employed as a cable contractor for tele-communications.  Needing to be busy, Ernie worked on anything mechanical, usually small engine repair. Home improvements were always taken care of in a timely manner. As an avid fisherman, he enjoyed time deep sea fishing.  The craft of gunsmithing was a favorite hobby. To design, modify and repair his firearms for hunting season was better than the actual hunt. He was often successful during deer season and occasionally he would get a wild turkey.

Left to cherish the memories of Ernie are his daughter Jessica Melissionos and husband Jason of Lake Helen, FL, son Scott Allen Burch and companion Jennifer Koscielyn of Quartzsite, AZ; eight grandchildren; 10 great grandchildren; sister, Martha Ulrey of New Port Ritchey, FL; brother Larry Burch of Rochester and numerous nieces and nephews.

Preceding Ernie in death are his parents, wife, daughter Mary K. Jena on November 12, 2013; three sisters, Evelyn Fisher, Lois Fritz, Velma Parrish, four Burch brothers, toddler Warren, Norman, Roy and Vernon

Due to the restrictions of the Covid 19 pandemic, the services will be scheduled for a later date. The services have been entrusted to the Good Family Funeral Home of Rochester.

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

Joan “Joanie” Smith, 89, of Winamac, IN passed away at 6:48 PM Tuesday, May 5, 2020 at her home.  Joanie was born April 8, 1931 in Logansport, IN to the late Joseph E. and Dorothy H. Gray Nazerine.  She was a 1949 graduate of Logansport High School.  On June 26, 1955, Joanie married the late Arthur L. “Art” Smith in Logansport.  Together, they operated Smith Insurance Agency in Winamac for nearly 25 years.

Joanie was a member of the Winamac First United Methodist Church.  She lived a very active life and was a member of numerous card clubs.  She enjoyed going to Bunco and socializing with her good friends.  Joanie and Art were avid Purdue Basketball fans and enjoyed traveling.  Most of all Joanie loved her family very much, especially her granddaughters. 

She is survived by:

Deborah (Tim) Senesac, Logansport, IN Daughter

Tracy (Brian) Harper, Winamac, IN Daughter

Alison Senesac, Atlanta, GA Granddaughter

Hayley (Josh) Ruff, Fishers, IN Granddaughter

Ron Nazerine, Logansport, IN Brother

Preceded in death by:

Joseph E. and Dorothy H. Gray Nazerine, Parents

Arthur L. “Art” Smith, Husband

Hannah Harper, Infant Granddaughter

Private Services will be held at Frain Mortuary in Winamac, IN. 

Private Burial will take place at Mt. Hope Cemetery in Logansport, IN.

Memorial Contributions may be made to the Pulaski Animal Center.

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

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

Ron Gagnon, age 82, Akron, died on Sunday, May 3, 2020 at Woodlawn Hospital at 5:20 p.m.

He was born in Fulton County on September 5, 1937 to Arthur and Violet (Hamilton) Gagnon.  Ron had lived in Mentone, the Beaver Dam area, but most of his life in the Akron community.  He graduated from Burket High School in 1955.  Ron married Carma L. (Middleton) Backus in 1959.  They recently had a public celebration of their 60^th wedding anniversary and now have been married 61 years.

Ron was employed at Sonoco Products Company in Akron for 20 years. After leaving there, he became a truck driver and doing miscellaneous jobs.  His last job was at Mid-West Springs in Mentone where he retired in 2002.

He attended Silver Creek Church of God when his health allowed him to.

He enjoyed hunting all kinds of animals.

Surviving Ron is his wife Carma of Akron;

(2) children: Steven E. (spouse Kathy) Gagnon of Warsaw; Barbara (spouse Tim) Gagnon of Wabash; (1) stepson: Steven D. (spouse Linda) Backus of Akron; (1) sister: Clara Brown of Houston, Texas; (10) grandchildren and many great-grandchildren.

Preceding Ron in death are his parents, stepdaughter Debra L. Backus, stepson Daniel D. Backus, and brother Eugene Gagnon.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, private graveside services will be held at Silver Creek Cemetery, Silver Lake, Indiana with Pastor Tom Craig officiating.

For those who wish to honor the memory of Ronald L. Gagnon, memorial contributions may be made to the Silver Creek Church of God, 6504 W. 1300 S., Silver Lake, Indiana  46982.

Online condolences may be sent to earllovefuneralhome.com

The staff of Earl-Love Funeral Home considers it a privilege and an honor to care for the family of Ronald L. Gagnon.

Billie Jo Matthews, 48, of Headlee, IN passed away Thursday, April 30, 2020. 

She was born on December 9, 1971 to William Matthew and Ruby May Davis Toosley.   Billie Jo enjoyed spending time with her family, especially her children and grandchildren.  She will be dearly missed. 

She is survived by:

Tausha (Kyle) Wilson, Daughter

Ricky Howard, Son

Dennis Matthew Howard, Son

Damon (Janel Minix) Howard, Son

10 Grandchildren

Ruby May (Larry) DeWeese, Mother  & Step Father

Bobbie Jo Fleming, Sister

Brian Matthew (Jennifer Crowder) Toosley, Brother

Jerry Thompson, Maternal Grandfather

Many Aunts, Uncles, Nieces, Nephews and Cousins

Preceded in death by:

William O’Neil Toosley, Brother

William Matthew Toosley, Father

William Anthony & LaVerne Toosley, Paternal Grandparents

Virginia Thompson, Maternal Grandmother

The family will host a memorial service at a later date.

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

Cremation arrangements have been entrusted to Frain Mortuary in Winamac.

Evelyn Leora Kerr Seese, age 94, passed away at 11:30PM at Miller's Merry Manor, Culver, on April 29, 2020. 

On February 1, 1926, in Chicago, Illinois, Evelyn Leora Kerr was born.  She was a treasured daughter of the late Robert and Isabel (Stifle) Kerr. (Evelyn was the oldest of six children.)  She graduated Leiters Ford High School in 1944.

On February 17, 1946, Evelyn married Ira J Seese of Culver.   After a few years in the Bruce Lake area, Ira and Evelyn made Leiters Ford their home and raised two boys. She worked many years at the "Wil Wood Cafe" in Leiters Ford. Her husband worked many years at Sealed Power in Rochester. Evelyn and Ira enjoyed many camping trips and traveled more after Ira retired. Evelyn enjoyed bird watching, worked many hours on family genealogy and many hours of reading books. She loved playing games with grandchildren, family and friends especially cards games. We have many memories of laughter at the dining room table playing games and enjoyed many of her home cooked meals she prepared. She loved the game show network on TV along with Wheel of Fortune and Lawrence Welk every Saturday night. Over the years she was active in community activities such as the Leiters Ford Strawberry Festival, senior citizen's group and church activities. 

Evelyn Seese was preceded in death by her parents, husband Ira J Seese (2001), brother James Kerr (2019), brother Robert "Bud" Kerr (2018) and sister, Mary Franz (2014).

Survivors include sons, Terry (Carole) Seese, Madison WI, Richard Seese, Rochester, two sisters, Judy (Walt) Talbott of Rochester, and Donna Raicevic of Kauai, HI, granddaughters, Nicole Gunter, Peru, Jennifer Seese of Madison WI, grandson Jon (Heather) Seese of Delavan, WI, 4 great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews along with their families.

She attended/was a member of the Leiters Ford United Methodist Church and leaves many dear friends of the Leiters Ford community.

The family wants to thank the doctors, nurses and staff of Saint Joseph Health System hospitals of Plymouth and Mishawaka. A heartfelt thank you to all the nurses and staff at Miller's Merry Manor at Culver, for Evelyn's care and family support during her illness since we (the family) could not be there by Evelyn's side.

A special thank you to Deb Drach, Rochester, who has been Evelyn's care giver/housekeeper for many years. They had  a special bond of friendship and has been so helpful with Evelyn's care.

Evelyn was full of laughter and song. She would burst out with a song for you. She had quite of list in her playbook of old show tunes and favorites from her teenage years. But only her closest friends and family will know this joking question. Since her husband passing the question over the years from her was "Where is that rich old Amish man you promised to bring me?" "Didn't you find him?" One time her brother, Jim, with help had a bale of hay placed in the front yard to bring the horse & buggy, but that Amish buggy never showed, but this joke was full of many laughs.

With respect of following Evelyn request there will be no memorials or services to be held. Her family will meet in the near future to privately celebrate her life at her favorite place,  along the Tippecanoe River.  The Good Family Funeral Home is assisting her family.  Please share a memory or sign the online guestbook at www.goodfamilyfh.com 

T. Marecelline “Marcie” Brewer, age 86 of Rochester, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, April 28, 2020 at her daughter’s home in Hebron, Indiana.

Marcie is survived by her two daughters: Terri (Dennis) Deeb in Hebron and Cheri (Carl) Knottnerus in West Palm Beach Florida; four grandsons: Daniel (Laurie) Deeb in Crown Point Indiana, Clayton (Megan) Deeb in Carmel Indiana, Kyle (Randi) Knottnerus in Jupiter Florida, and Jarrett (Whitney) Knottnerus in Lake Park Florida; five great grandsons: Logan, Lucas, and Evan Deeb in Crown Point and Murphy and Martin Deeb in Carmel; sister Pat Erny (Ray) Walter in Logansport Indiana, brother Dave (Mary) Sievers also in Logansport, sister-in-law Phyllis (Gary) Stuart in Lake Cicott Indiana, and many nieces and nephews. 

She is preceded in death by her husband Richard A. Brewer; her parents: Bill and Doris Sievers; and two sisters: Jeanetta Warner and June Sievers Neal.

Marcie was a graduate of Logansport High School, Class of 1952.

She married Richard (better known as Dick) in September of 1952 and they celebrated 50 years of marriage before Dick’s passing in 2003.

Marcie and Dick moved to Rochester from Logansport in 1961 where they resided the remainder of their lives. Marcie worked for 10 years in the advertising department for the Rochester Sentinel and truly valued her relationships with the local business community.

At home, the Brewer door was always open to all as Marcie and Dick loved sharing lake life activities and social gatherings with family and friends. They also enjoyed golf in the summer and winters with family and friends in Florida.

Marcie’s family is extremely grateful for the staff at Wynnfield Crossing and the wonderful care they provided these past five years.

A Memorial Service/Celebration of Life will be planned at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to Logansport Church of the Brethren (2405 Shadowlawn Dr, Logansport, IN 46947) or Palms West Presbyterian Church (1128 Royal Palm Beach Blvd #225, Royal Palm Beach FL 33411)

The Good family Funeral Home is assisting Marcie’s family. Anyone wishing to share memories or leave message at www.goodfamilyfh.com

Mrs.Beverly Lavon Keene, 92, of Rochester, passed away at 3:25 PM on Staurday, April 25, 2020 at   Life Care Center of Rochester.

In LaPorte, on February 4, 1928, Beverly was born.  She was a treasured daughter of  Charles G. and Valda Lavon Honald Dickson.

Beverly and Albert L. Swanson were married on July 19, 1945 in Fulton County. He  preceded her in death.  On December 24, 1957, Beverly and Donald L. Keene were married. He passed away on January 22, 2003.

Beverly was a homemaker and worked at Sears for several years. She was a member of the Family Bible Church of LaPorte and attended Antioch Baptist Church of Rochester.

Memories of Beverly will be cherished by a  two daughters, Tina Combs, Sandy Morrison both of Michigan City, one son, Charles L. Swanson and wife Rose Mary  of Rochester, two step daughters, Margo Schrader of Stillwell; Donna Vehrs of Italsa, IL;    two sisters,  Natoma Edwards, of Laporte,  Charmaine Smith, of Plant City, FL; two brothers, Larry Dickson and wife Betty of LaPorte; Kenny Dickson and wife Connie of LaPorte; daughter-in-law, Mary Lou Swanson of Rochester;  51 grandchildren and many great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

Preceding Beverly in death are her parents, husband,  infant daughter, Dixie Lee Swanson; son Danny Swanson, step-son Gordon Keene; sisters, Jane Griffin, Sally Patchett, Willa Bell, Jackie Metcalf,  brothers, Ardell "Bud" Dickson, Emory Dale Dickson, Allen Dickson, Meredith Dickson.

A  memorial service celebrating the life of Beverly L. Keene will be scheduled at a date to be announced at the Good family Funeral Home.  The Rev. Jerry Pitman will officiate.  Interment will be in the Rolling Prairie Cemetery of Rolling Prairie. Electronic expressions of sympathy may be made to her family at www.goodfamilyfh.com