Obituaries

Ronald (Laddie) Lynn Kauffman, 82, Etna Green

Ronald (Laddie) Lynn Kauffman, 82, Etna Green, Indiana, ran into the arms of Jesus surrounded by his loving family on May 28, 2021.

 

After years of suffering, we are so grateful that his body is now made whole.

 

On November 15, 1957, he married his high school sweetheart, Sara Lea Blackford and lived joyfully in love with her all the days of his life.   Together they built a beautiful life, including nine children, Kyle (Tanya) Warsaw, IN; Roger (Ruth) Bourbon, IN; Jeff (Carol) Addison, VT; Todd (Teresa) Rochester, IN; Janeen (Shawn) Rafferty, Brantford, Ontario; Matthew, Seattle, WA; Sara (Shawn) Morrow Plymouth, IN; Nathan (Sarah) Tippecanoe, IN; and Ellen (Tod) Stillson Plymouth, IN.

 

Their marriage was a true picture of unconditional love and commitment.  Dad would put a special love letter beside Mom’s chair almost every morning, just to show his love and affection.  After 63 years of marriage, the comment was made that “a lifetime would still not be long enough”.

 

Ron was born September 24, 1938, to parents Donald Camp and Beulah Marie Gordon Kauffman in Osceola, Indiana.  He grew up as the youngest of four children, with three older sisters; Lillie Jean Cox, Plymouth, IN; Eula Lee Geyer, Elkhart, IN; and Donna Marie Swoverland, Weldon, IL.

 

From a young age, he learned to be a hard worker, taking on the responsibility of many chores and tasks on the family farm.  As a young teenager, he was given the task of driving a semi-truck full of chickens to Chicago.  He was a relatively new driver, and as he was stopping at red lights, people would hop on the back of the truck and steal the chickens!  He did not know what to do, so he just kept driving!  When he arrived at his destination, he was missing the whole top layer of chickens. Thankfully, his boss was compassionate!

 

He continued to develop new skills and could fix just about anything: plumbing, HVAC, electrical, and even cars.  He was a jack of all trades and was willing to help anyone fix anything.  He worked several jobs over the years to support his large family and ultimately retired from Monaco Coach Corporation in 2003 after being employed there twenty-seven years.

 

Ron realized his need for a Savior at age twelve during a Billy Graham Crusade and it changed the trajectory of his life.  Over the years he served as a Boys Brigade leader, Sunday School Superintendent, Song Leader and deacon at Tippecanoe Community Church.  He enjoyed singing hymns and was often heard singing songs around the house that he made up out of the blue.  Most Saturday mornings you could find him out doing church visitation or helping those in need.

 

He lived his life as a servant of Christ and modeled a genuine faith to his children and grandchildren.

 

They coveted his prayers and knew that he would be sitting in his chair at 4 o’clock every morning, praying for each of them and reading his Bible.

 

He served his country, as a member of the National Army Guard, before being honorably discharged on May 22, 1960. 

 

When he had spare time, which was a rare event, he enjoyed scrapping at the junkyard, going to tractor shows, and collecting coins, hats, and die-cast cars.  As his body wore down and he became less mobile, he enjoyed coloring and mind puzzles.

 

While Ron will be remembered for many different things, his family will always remember the way he suffered well.  His faith sustained him, and it is what he drew his strength from.  He was not one to complain, no matter how intense the pain was.  His concern was always for others instead of himself.  Several times he was overheard saying that he hoped the way he suffered would point others to Christ.  Just as dad has always been there for each of us, we have been honored as a family to be alongside Dad these past few months as he made his journey to his perfect healing.

 

Ronald was preceded in death by his parents and sister Donna, along with one child due to miscarriage.

 

He is survived by his wife, Sara, nine children and spouses, 69 grandchildren and spouses, and 45 great-grandchildren, as well as two sisters.

 

His wife and family would like to send a special thank you to Dad’s caring doctor Dr. Craig Miller, Plymouth Family and Internal Medicine, Dr. Christopher Annis, Elkhart Pain Clinic, and Kindred Hospice, Rochester, for the loving treatment they provided for their loved one.

 

Earl-Grossman Funeral home will be assisting the family.  A visitation will take place on Tuesday, June 1, 2021 from 4 - 7 p.m. at the Tippecanoe Community Church, 2920 Main St. Tippecanoe, IN 46570 with a celebration of his life to be held on Wednesday,  June 2, 2021 at 10:00 a.m with Rev. George Shoemaker.

 

Burial will follow at the Tippecanoe Cemetery.

Deborah J. Latoza 66, Rochester

Deborah J. Latoza 66, Rochester, Indiana, passed away at 5:24 A.M. Tuesday, May 25, 2021 at Lutheran Hospital of Indiana, Fort Wayne.

 

She was born on September 14, 1954 in Memphis, Tennessee, the daughter of William Joe and Mary Virginia (Wright) Agent. She married Richard Latoza and he preceded her in death.

 

Mrs. Latoza had been a homemaker and had worked for Wal-Mart. She enjoyed puzzles, gardening, crocheting and spending time with her family.

 

Survivors include her children, Richard Latoza, Winamac, Indiana, Rebecca Latoza, Rochester, Indiana, Danielle Primmer, Lafayette, Indiana, grandchildren, Ian and his father Cameron, Von and Odin and their father Austin, Serenity, siblings, Clara Sue Mitleff, Cleo Steven Agent, Rita Boleck Fuller, Angie May Agent, Emma Christine Agent Arnold, Jennifer Oechsier, step-mother, Gwendolyn Ruth Woodward Agent. She was preceded in death by her parents.

 

Memorial services will be conducted at Noon Saturday, May 29, 2021 at Zimmerman Bros. Funeral Home, Rochester, Indiana.

 

Friends may visit one hour prior to service.

 

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society.

 

Online condolences may be expressed at www.zimmermanbrosfh.com

Jackie D. "Tex" Holcomb 78, Rochester

Jackie D. “Tex” Holcomb 78, Rochester, Indiana, passed away at 8:14 A.M. Saturday, May 22, 2021, at his residence.

 

He was born on August 7, 1942 in Iowa, the son of Clarence G. and E. Gertrude (Thomas) Holcomb. On May 9, 1964 in Logansport, Indiana, he married Beverly Sue Carlson. She preceded him in death on October 24, 2019.

 

Mr. Holcomb had retired after working years for the Co-Op in Kewanna, Indiana. Previously he had worked for Wilson’s Foods, Logansport, Indiana and during “retirement” years he worked farming, hauling grain and moving equipment. Known as a workaholic, Jackie would always be out working in his yard, garden or anything else that need done.

 

Survivors include his children, Jeff Holcomb, Rochester, Indiana, Amy Cline, Rochester, Indiana, grandchildren, Cassandra (Aaron) Isley, Silver Lake, Indiana, Randy Cline, Brandi Cline, Amanda Cline, Eddie Holcomb, all of Rochester, Indiana, Mandie Javier, Rochester, Indiana, Phillip Holcomb, Rochester, Indiana, Brian Thomas, Rochester, Indiana, Erica Thomas, Logansport, Indiana, Rebecca Taylor, California, Phillip Taylor, Rochester, Indiana, numerous great grandchildren, siblings, Harry Holcomb, Clinton, Missouri, Grant (Judy) Holcomb, Florence, Arizona, Jim (Myrna) Holcomb, Fairfield, Iowa, Thelma White, Iowa City, Iowa, Velma Hummel, Burlington, Iowa, Mable (Chuck) Hart, Ottumwa, Iowa, Trudy Hey, Florida, Sarah Poss, Florida, numerous nieces and nephews.

 

He was preceded in death by his parents, son, Mark Holcomb, brother, Clarence G. Holcomb Jr., sister, Martha Filson,  and niece, Holly Holcomb.

 

Funeral services will be conducted at 1:00 P.M. Thursday May 27, 2021 at Zimmerman Bros. Funeral Home, Rochester, Indiana. Friends may call from 11:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M. Thursday at the funeral home. Burial will take place later at Leiters Ford Cemetery, Leiters Ford, Indiana.

 

Online condolences may be expressed at www.zimmermanbrosfh.com  

Rex R. Trainer, Sr., 63, of Kokomo, IN (formerly of Winamac) 

Rex R. Trainer, Sr., 63, of Kokomo, IN (formerly of Winamac) passed away at 6:16 PM Sunday, May 23, 2021 at Howard Community Hospital in Kokomo. 

 

He was born on August 15, 1957 in Sturgis, MI to the late Cecil R. and Jeanette L. [Tetzloff] Trainer.  On October 25, 1980, Rex married Margaret Alcorn in Portage, IN.  She passed away December 3, 2005. 

 

Rex was a lifelong truck driver.  He served in the US Navy and was a member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles.  Rex enjoyed woodworking and playing cards.  He will be deeply missed.

 

He is survived by:

Yvonne (Terry) Dalka, Buffalo, IN Daughter

Tiara (Jack) Wright, Culver, IN Daughter

Rex R. (Mindy) Trainer, Jr., Rochester, IN Son

7 Grandchildren: Cheyenne, Judy, Jack, Chloe, Thomas, Bryce, and Valerie

3 Great Grandchildren: Paisley, Rayanna, and Piper

3 Sisters: Ranetta, Rita, and Robin

Several Nieces and Nephews

 

Preceded in death by:

Cecil R. and Jeanette L. [Tetzloff] Trainer, Parents

Margaret [Alcorn] Trainer, Wife

1 Infant Sister: Judy

 

Visitation will be from 10:00 – 11:00 AM EDT Thursday, May 27, 2021 at Frain Mortuary in Winamac, IN. 

 

Funeral Services will take place at 11:00 AM EDT Thursday, May 27, 2021 at Frain Mortuary in Winamac, IN with Pastor Elmer Poisel officiating. 

 

Burial will take place at Winamac Cemetery (McKinley Addition) in Winamac, IN.  The American Legion and VFW will conduct Military Graveside Services. 

 

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. 

Kelsie Lynn Biltz, 26, of Rochester

Kelsie Lynn Biltz, 26, of Rochester was fatally injured when her motorcycle collided with a car that pulled in her path on Friday evening, May 21, 2021.  She was pronounced deceased at Logansport Memorial Hospital shortly after her arrival. 

 

Left to cherish Kelsie's memory are her fiancee' Jon-Tae Harper of Rochester;  parents Andy and Kim Biltz of Kewanna, and Renda Doss of Logansport; 4 sisters: Brittany Abbott, Taylor Shackelford, Destiny Rice and Crystal Smith; a brother Johnathan Miller; grandparents: Terry and Lynn Biltz and Pamela and Harold Conklin; and numerous nieces and nephews who also survive. 


A celebration of the life of Miss Kelsie Lynn Biltz will be held at 6:00 PM, Thursday May 27, 2021, in the Good Family Funeral Home, 1200 West 18th Street Rochester with Mr. Alvin Doss and Mr. Rick Sexton officiating. 

 

Her family will receive friends from 4:00 until the time of the service. 

 

The family asks that everyone be aware of motorcycles. 

Joan Elizabeth Lease, 88, Rochester

Joan Elizabeth Lease, 88, Rochester, Indiana, passed away at 8:00 A.M. Monday, May 17, 2021, at Life Care Center of Rochester.

 

She was born on February 19, 1933 in Manchester, England. On February 27, 1954 in Manchester, England, she married Howard James Lease. He preceded her in death on April 30, 2016.

 

Mrs. Lease had worked for the Fulton County Public Library for over forty years retiring at the age of 75. She enjoyed flowers and gardening.

 

Survivors include her sons, Warren and wife Gloria Lease, Rochester, Indiana, Jeff and wife Colleen Lease, West Lafayette, Indiana, Matt and wife Debbie Lease, Rochester, Indiana, eight grandchildren, and seventeen great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, Mr. & Mrs. Albert Taylor, great grandchild, Aylee Foxworth, brother, Albert Taylor, step- brothers, David Clowes and Jack Clowes.

 

Private services will be observed.

 

Memorial contributions may be made to Alzheimer’s Association and Salvation Army.

 

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

 

Online condolences may be expressed at www.zimmermanbrosfh.com

Reinaldo Fuentes, 62, of Rochester

Reinaldo Fuentes 62, Rochester,  passed away at 12:48 P.M. Monday May 17, 2021, at St. Joseph Medical Center, Plymouth, Indiana.

 

He was born on October 15, 1958 in Cidra, Puerto Rico, the son of Jose’ and Sixta Olique Fuentes.

 

On February 3, 2007 in Rochester, Indiana, he married Kendra L. Creviston. She preceded him in death on March 13, 2021.

 

Mr. Fuentes early in life had worked in Law Enforcement in Puerto Rico. He was an employee of Pike Lumber Company, Akron, Indiana and had also worked security at Rumors, Rochester. He enjoyed camping, watching Western Movies, especially John Wayne movies and was an avid Chicago Cubs fan.

 

Survivors include his step-children, Skyler (Fiance’ Robert Hardesty) Creviston, Rochester, Indiana, Ember (Jacob Williams) Lambert, Miami, Indiana, Ebony Lambert, South Bend, Indiana, Raven (Miguel Gomez) Lambert, Silver Lake, Indiana, Quincy Lambert, Rochester, Indiana, Cortnie Tuttle, DeLong, Indiana, Ayriel ( Mark Knobbe) Eytcheson, Montgomery, Texas, Melinda Holland, Fort Pierce, Florida, step- grandchildren, Emery Lambert, Jayce Williams and Sawyer Williams, Tilesasha, D.J., Ciarra, and Noah, siblings, Ada Fuentes Olique, Adelaida Fuentes Olique, Angel Manuel Fuentes Olique, Jose Luis Fuentes Olique, Samuel Fuentes Olique, Zenida Fuentes Olique and Doraldina Fuentes Olique, several nieces and nephews.

 

He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Juan Antonio Fuentes Olique.

 

Friends may visit from 4-7 P.M. Thursday at Zimmerman Bros. Funeral Home, Rochester, Indiana.

 

Online condolences may be expressed at www.zimmermanbrosfh.com

Nancy S. Wagoner 79, Bremen, formerly of Rochester

Nancy S. Wagoner 79, Bremen, Indiana and formerly of Rochester, Indiana, passed away at 1:40 A.M. Thursday, May 13, 2021 at Signature Health Care of Bremen, Indiana.

 

She was born on July 27, 1941 in Kokomo, Indiana and graduated from Tipton High School in 1959. She had been married to Frederick Wagoner and he had preceded her in death in 2001.

Nancy retired from working two full time jobs at O’Malia’s Food Markets in the deli and had been shift manager at Taco Bell both of Carmel, Indiana. Nancy had made many “family” relationships with regular customers. Before that she had worked for Hart, Schaffner & Marx in Rochester for twenty one years.

 

Nancy was always a very hard worker. In her earlier years she always had a garden full of vegetables, planted many flowers, canned tomato juice and made homemade grape jelly from the grape vines in her yard. She was always on the go taking her daughter, Jeanie, to all her sporting practices and games and all her clubs, girl scouts, 4-H, etc. over the years. Nancy also enjoyed making crafts and sewing. After retirement, you could always see her out walking.

 

Left to cherish her memories, are a daughter, Jeanie Griffith, Plymouth, Indiana, grandson, Cody Griffith, Plymouth, Indiana, brothers, Jerry Coy, Sheridan, Indiana, Mike (Janet) Coy, Sheridan, Indiana, sister, Kathy (David) Eaton, Greenwood, Indiana. She was preceded in death by her mother, Marceille Coy in 1995.

 

Funeral services will be conducted at 1:00 P.M. Monday, May 17, 2021, at Zimmerman Bros. Funeral Home, Rochester, Indiana.

 

Friends may visit from 11:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M. Monday at the funeral home.

 

Burial will be in the Odd Fellows Cemetery, Rochester, Indiana.

 

Online condolences may be expressed at www.zimmermanbrosfh.com

Robert A. Ulerick, 64, of Rochester

Robert A.  Ulerick, 64, of Rochester was surrounded by his loving family when passed away at 10:04 PM, Thursday, May 13, 2021 at Woodlawn Hospital.

 

On August 12, 1956, Robert Allen Ulerick was born in Fulton County to Robert Eugene and Darlene Cumberland Ulerick. Growing up he shared his childhood with a sister Theresa and brother Brian.  Bob was proud member of the Rochester High School class of 1974.

 

In Rochester's First Baptist Church, Bob married the love of his life Allee R. Calhoun on July 13, 1991. They have shared 30 years of life’s adventures. From their union came two handsome sons, Mitchell and Connor.

 

With a strong work ethic Bob enjoyed professional diversity, leading off with helping out at Bob & Jim's Super Shell full-service gas station.  He was always there to work in the shop or deliver the best customer service.  He also worked in road construction for McMahon - O'Connor Construction Company.  Bob concluded his professional career with Dean Foods of Rochester.

 

To relax, Bob enjoyed following Clemson University football, Indiana University every sport and formula one racing.  He watched Jeopardy and loved the daily challenges of crossword puzzles.  Earlier Bob annually planted a truck patch garden for all of his family and friends to share in the bountiful harvest.  His favorite music was classic rock from the 70's. 

 

Delivering Bob his greatest joy was floating the Tippecanoe with his family or classmates.  It was always an adventure making memories and sharing the best of times.  Bob was a selfless man, putting others ahead of himself.  He had the biggest heart and was dependable, always being there to help everyone.

 

Left to cherish the memories of Bob are his wife, Allee; two sons: Mitchell A. Ulerick and Connor N. Ulerick all of Rochester; mother Darlene Kuhn and husband Don of Peru; sister Theresa Kimmel and husband Nate of Rochester; brother Brian Ulerick of Clearwater, Fl; father & mother-in-law Jim and Cherri Calhoun of Rochester;  sisters and brothers-in-law Jimmy and Cammie Calhoun of Plymouth, Tara and Matt Hennon of SC,  Dr. Ryan and Kathy Calhoun of SC; numerous nieces and nephews;  and two canine companions Otis the snow-white Bichon and Pika the Australian Doodle.

 

Preceding Bob in death is his father Robert E. Ulerick, December 25, 2013.

 

A celebration of the life of Mr. Robert Allen Ulerick will be at 7:00 PM on Saturday, June 5, 2021 in the First Baptist Church, 1000 Main Street , Rochester.

 

Pastor Jimmy Calhoun and Dr. Mark Spencer will officiate.

 

Friends may visit with the family from 4-7 PM on Saturday,  in the church.  

 

Memorials may be made to Bob's family to assist with medical expenses.  

Betty L. Barnes, 83, of Rochester

Betty L. Barnes, 83, of Rochester was surrounded by her loving family when she passed away at 11:45 AM  on Friday, May 14, 2021 at her residence.

 

On August 1, 1938, Betty Lou Mehrley was born in Rochester to Gerald E. and Mildred A. Cunningham Mehrley. As the oldest of five, she shared her childhood with three sisters and a brother.

 

Betty and Jerry Lee Barnes were married on September 1, 1979 in the Talma Church.  They enjoyed 41 years of life’s adventures. Their family tree included the additions of three generations.

 

After 30 dedicated years of working as a production clerk, Betty retired from RR Donnelley in 1996.  

 

Gifted with her hands, Betty enjoyed crocheting gifts of warmth for her family and friends, especially afghans and hats.  Reading romantic novels was a source of relaxation.  Jerry and Betty were avid campers usually heading to one of Indiana's State Parks like Covered Bridge, Mounds or Tippecanoe.  They also enjoyed camping trips to Daniel Boone Park in Charleston, West Virginia.

 

Left to cherish Betty's memory are her husband Jerry; two daughters: Debra Croussore and husband Robert of Rochester, Peggy Bailey and husband Tim of Tippecanoe; four sons: David Barnes and wife Teressa of Columbia City, Rodney Barnes and wife Ethel of Warsaw, Craig Barnes and wife Ginger of Warsaw, Tony Barnes and wife Deb of Mentone; seven grandchildren: Levi Jones and wife Shannon, Gina Tucker and husband Nathan, Braxton Barnes and fiance' Kylie, Kristen Connor and husband Ryan, Kelsey Nelson and husband Wyatt, Kyle Bause and wife Tawny, Chris Slone; seven great-grandchildren: Hailee, Amanda, Anthony, Jaxon, Alexa, Harper, Huxlee, Trinity; two sisters: Judy Spencer of Rochester, Karen Bock and husband David of Rochester; brother Ernest “Jr” Mehrley and wife Pat of Jackson, NC; and several nieces and nephews.

 

Preceding Betty in death are her parents and sister Imogene Davis.

 

A celebration of the life of Mrs. Betty Lou Barnes will be at 12 noon on Wednesday, May 19, 2021 at the Good Family Funeral Home, 1200 West 18th St., Rochester. Pastor Rodney Utter will officiate.

 

Friends may visit with the family from 10-12 on Wednesday, in the funeral home.  

 

Interment will be in the Rochester IOOF Cemetery.

 

Memorials may be made to Fulton County Animal Shelter, 1540 Wentzel St., Rochester, IN 46975 

Former Rochester resident, Jack L. Nichols, 89 of Newark, Ohio

Former Rochester resident, Mr. Jack L. Nichols, 89 of Newark, Ohio passed at 5:25 PM on Monday, December 21, 2020 at Flintridge Health Care Center of Newark.

 

On August 26, 1931, in Fulton County, Jack was born to Ernest B. Nichols and Helen K. Nichols (Bryant).  Growing up he shared his childhood with a sister, Jan.

 

Answering the call of patriotism, Jack served with the US Air Force for four years and was honorably discharged in 1959.

 

Jack was the owner-operator of Nichols Security Systems that served the central Ohio area for several decades.  

 

His favorite pastimes were restoring and collecting antique cars.  Most notable were a 1952 Kaiser Manhattan and a 1956 Ford Thunderbird.  Both vehicles won local and national awards.  Jack was also a member of the Model A Club for many years.  Later on, he enjoyed restoring and riding Cushman motor scooters.  He even named his treasured canine companion, “Scooter” after his love of those 2 wheeled gems.

 

Left to cherish Jack's memory are two daughters: Jill Zimmerman and husband Robert of East Islip, NY, and Linda Nichols of Mesa, AZ; a son, Christopher Nichols and wife Roni of Las Vegas, NV; and four grandchildren: Heather, Hope, Jack, and Natalie.

 

Preceding Jack in death are his parents, sister Jan Duzenberry, daughter Cheryl, and infant son Todd.

 

Military honors, conducted by the Fulton County Veterans Honor Guard and the US Air Force Honors Team, celebrating Jack's life will be held  at 10:00 AM on  Saturday, May 22, 2021 in the Athens Hoover Cemetery.

 

The arrangements have been entrusted to Good Family Funeral Home of Rochester.

 

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

Terry Moore, 83, of Rochester

Terry's life celebration will be live-streamed at 12:30  EST Sunday, May 16, 2021 

Log on to Facebook and search "JD Good" to view the service.

 

Teressa A. (Terry) Moore, daughter of the late Russell and Lois Gaumer Wilson passed away at 8:37 PM on Tuesday, May 11, 2021 at her home.

 

Terry was the wife of Joe, mom of Rusty, Cris, Mindy and John, loving grandma of Stephanie, Allison, Evan, Katelyn, Guiliana, Marcy, Jake, Scott and Melissa. 

 

Preceding her in death are a son, John, brothers Tom and Rob and special aunts Helen Gaumer and Madge Stewart and her uncle Floyd Gaumer.

 

On April 24, 1938 Terry was born and lived her entire life in Rochester graduating with the RHS class of 1956. Throughout her entire life she was helping others, whether working in insurance, banking, at Manitou Training Center, Director of the Fulton County Council on Aging, United Ministries plus being a longtime Tri Kappa member. In addition to the above, she enjoyed playing the organ or the piano for church services, sing alongs for pure enjoyment or an occasional wedding or funeral.

 

Terry surely was a special person to those who worked with her or came to her with their problems or concerns. She was a good listener, kind, sincere, caring, compassionate and accepted all people regardless of their status, handicap of color. Terry and Joe, received the 2016 Community Service Award.

 

A private service celebrating Terry's life will be held at Good Family Funeral Home of Rochester. Chaplain Jason See will officiate.  The committal will follow at Rochester IOOF Cemetery.  

 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Manitou Training Center, 1690 East Lucas St., Rochester, IN 46975,  Council on Aging, 625 Pontiac St., Rochester, IN 46975, United Ministries Outreach, 625 Pontiac St. Rochester, IN 46975 would be appreciated.  

 

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

Thelma June Ledger, 94, Rochester

Thelma June Ledger 94, Rochester, Indiana, passed away at 11:45 A.M. Sunday May 9, 2021, at her residence.

 

Thelma was born on June 30, 1926 in Mount Ayr, Newton County, Indiana,the youngest of five children to Jesse and Clara Belle (Jenkins) Putman. She grew up in the Chicago, Illinois area. On May 19, 1979 in Tyler, Texas, she married Elmer Lee Ledger. He preceded her in death on March 29, 1999.

 

Thelma received her bachelor degree from the University of Texas at Tyler and had worked as a real estate broker for over twenty five years retiring when her husband retired the military. Early in life, she had worked as “Rosie the Riveter” for a production plant in California during World War II. Later in life, she drove a school bus for disabled children. She had attended the First Presbyterian Church, had been active in church choir as well as local choirs, and had been a member of the Moose Lodge, Eagles Lodge, American Legion Auxiliary, and the V.F.W. Auxiliary.

 

An adventurous person by nature, she enjoyed traveling, cruising, bowling, skydiving, reading and her love for cats.

 

Survivors include her children, Judith (Larry) Underwood, Hebron, Indiana, John (Judith) Stock, Westfield, Indiana, Charles Stock, Corvallis, Oregon, Hank Stock, Lafayette, Indiana, David (Pam)Stock, Portage, Indiana, nine grandchildren, numerous great grandchildren and four great-great grandchildren.

 

She was preceded in death by her son, Richard Stock, daughter, Joy Michelle Stock, three brothers and one sister.

 

Private graveside services and burial will take place at Calumet Park Cemetery, Merrillville, Indiana.

 

Friends may call from 5-7 P.M. Thursday May 13, 2021, at Zimmerman Bros. Funeral Home, Rochester, Indiana.

 

Memorial contributions may be made to the Indiana Veterans Home, Lafayette, Indiana.

 

Online condolences may be expressed at www.zimmermanbrosfh.com

Paul E. "Ed"  Pottenger, 86, of Rochester

Mr. Paul E. “Ed”  Pottenger, 86, of Rochester passed away at 9:15 AM on Thursday, April 29, 2021 at Woodbridge Health Campus of Logansport.

 

On January 12, 1935, Paul Edward was born in Deedsville.   He was a treasured son of Charles M. and Ada Marie Clingenpeel Pottenger. Growing up, as the youngest of the family, he shared his childhood with three sisters and two brothers.  Paul graduated with the class of 1954 from Deedsville High School.

 

Answering the call of patriotism, Paul served with the US Army in Germany and was honorably discharged in 1959. He was a lifetime member of the Moose Lodge #1107 and the Veterans of Foreign Wars #1343. Other memberships include the Le Roy Shelton American Legion Post#36, Fraternal Order of Eagles #852,  Elks Lodge # 2120, all of Rochester and the UAW #977. Paul was also a member of the coveted Fulton County Veteran's Honor Guard.

 

Paul and Mary E. Lones were married on November 29, 1970 in Fulton. They shared 48 years of life’s adventures.  During the early years the Pottengers enjoyed life on the farm in Twelve Mile. Primary crops were corn, beans and wheat.  He oversaw a livestock operation consisting of hogs, cattle and Suffolk sheep.   More recent they made their home on the sparkling waters of Lake Manitou. They wintered in Crescent City Florida for many years.

 

Left to cherish Paul's memory are step-children, Linda Westhusin of Groton, Conn.   and David L. Phillips and wife Cheryl of DeMotte ; several grandchildren, great-grandchildren and nieces and nephews.

 

Preceding Paul in death are his parents, beloved wife Mary on September 16, 2018, step-son Robin Gates, three sisters, Dorothy Orpurt. Margaret Blackburn, Ethel Hyjek and two Pottenger brothers, William “Hooker” and Marvin.

 

A celebration of the life of Paul E. Pottenger will be at 11:00 am on Saturday, May 15, 2021 in the Good Family Funeral Home, 1200 West 18th St., Rochester. Pastor Thad Stewart will officiate.  Friends may visit with the family from 9:30 -11:00 AM on Saturday in the funeral home.

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

Interment will be in the Deedsville Cemetery.  Memorials may be made to the Fulton County Veterans Honor Guard, 611 Main St., Rochester, IN 46975.

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

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