Robert “Bob” E. Oldfather, 71, passed away on September 7, 2022 at his residence near Macy, Indiana, after a decade-long battle with multiple sclerosis.

Robert was born on February 7, 1951 in Rochester, Indiana to Wilfred W. and Ruth E. (Yentes) Oldfather.  He graduated in 1969 from Manchester High School, including one year of welding instruction through the Upper Wabash Vocational School.  Following graduation, Robert lived for a time in the Netherlands as a participant in the International Farm Youth Exchange (IFYE) program.

On December 26, 1981, he married Kathleen “Kathy” Louise Myers in Laketon, Indiana.  In 1994, they purchased a farm in Miami County and moved to their current location near Macy.

As an accomplished welder and farmer, Robert owned and operated Oldfather Welding along with operating and maintaining his family farm with his wife and son.

Before relocation to Miami County, Robert served for six years as a volunteer Sheriff Deputy in Wabash County and was a member of the Sheriff’s Underwater Recovery Team.  He also served as a volunteer firefighter for the Pleasant Township Fire Department.

As a young adult,Robert enjoyed motorcycle riding and racing, scuba diving and photography.

He loved maintaining and exploring his parent’s woods, especially during mushroom season.  He had a heart for serving his customers, neighbors, and church.  Robert learned to work hard with integrity through the example of his parents on their family farm near Laketon, Indiana.  As a father, Robert instilled those same qualities in his son, Jeremy, for whom he loved.

Robert attended the Olive Branch Church of God before becoming ill, and was also a valued member of Jubilee Outreach, centered in Mentone, Indiana.

In spite of the toll that chronic disease levied on Robert, near the end of his journey, he re-affirmed his trust in Jesus and his faith that there is no disease, condition or hardship that can get in the way of God fulfilling His promise to complete the good work that He begins in our heart.  As if in confirmation, there isa notable message of “7s” found in the dates surrounding Robert’s birth and passing.  Consider this: he was born on February 7^th and died on September 7^th, at the age of 71 years and 7 months old.  That is a lot of “7s”!  Biblically, the number “7” is used symbolically to convey a state of “perfect” or “complete”.  Through God’s grace, Robert endured to the end.  Time to move on, for he is now perfect and complete in Jesus!

James 1:2-4 NASB

2 Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials,

3 knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance.

4 And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.

Surviving Robert is his wife, Kathy Oldfather of Macy, IN; (1) son: Jeremy Oldfather of Brooklyn, NY; (2) brothers: Charles Oldfather (Marilyn) of DeAllend, MX; James (Jan) Oldfather of Victoria, TX; and eight nieces and nephews and extended family.

Preceding Robert in death are his parents; a daughter: Melissa Ann Oldfather; (2) brothers: Neal and Randolph Oldfather.

There will b a Celebration of Life service for Robert at Olive Branch Church, Roann, Indiana on Sunday, October 2, 2022, officiated by Terry Vanlaningham. 

A meal for the family and friends will begin at 1:00 p.m. with the service following at 2:00 p.m.  For those who cannot attend in person, it will be live-streamed on the church’s website: https://olivebranch.church 

A graveside service and burial will follow in the Enterprise Cemetery (formally known as the Olive Branch Cemetery).

Memorial contributions may be made to Area Five Agency on Aging and Community Services, Inc. and to the Pleasant Township Fire Dept.

Online condolences may be sent to earllovefuneralhome.com

Anna S. Winnie 56, of Logansport, and formerly of Rochester, passed away at 10:30 A.M., Thursday, September 15, 2022, at her residence with her family by her side.

She was born on June 29, 1966, in Dayton, Ohio, the daughter of Paul Harper and Zella Carolyn (Harry) Harper Graham. On September 23, 2006 in Rochester, Indiana, she married Robert Neil Winnie and he survives.

Anna had worked as a lab technician for Rochester Metal Products for many years.  She had attended The Cross Church and had a passion for collecting butterflies, cows, working in the garden, and going to yard sales.

Survivors include her husband, Robert N. Winnie, Logansport, Indiana, daughters, Sarah Miles, New Carlisle, Indiana, Heather Weyant, Rochester, Indiana, Stacey Weyant, Rochester, Indiana, son, Joshua (Amanda) Weyant, Rochester, Indiana, step-daughter, Amber Schleppenbach, Logansport, Indiana, step-son, Zach Winnie, Logansport, Indiana, twelve grandchildren, father, Paul Harper, Pittsburgh, Ohio, mother, Zella Carolyn Graham, Greenville, Ohio, brothers, Scott (Twila) Harper, Kimmel, Indiana, Chris (Jodi) Harper, Decatur, Indiana, several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her step-father, Charlie “The Tuna” Ward and step-mother, Judith Nill Harper.

No services are scheduled at this time. Memorial contributions may be made to the Fulton County Parks and Recreation Association or any Wildlife and Nature Preservation Organization. Arrangements by Zimmerman Bros Funeral Home, Rochester, Indiana. Online condolences may be expressed at www.zimmermanbrosfh.com

Christopher T. Strayer 55, of Akron, passed away at 2:42 P.M. Wednesday, September 14, 2022 at St. Vincent Hospital, Indianapolis, Indiana.

He was born on March 1, 1967 in Kokomo, Indiana, the son of Vernon Thomas Strayer and Wanda Jane (Wilson) Strayer Anderson. On February 2, 2006 in Logansport, Indiana, he married Teresa Pastucha and she survives.

Christopher had worked as a Corrections Officer at the Miami Correctional Facility, Bunker Hill, Indiana, and had also worked for Zimmer in Warsaw, Indiana, Wilson Foods and Transco, both of Logansport, Indiana. He enjoyed muscle cars and spending time with his grandchildren.

Survivors include his wife, Teresa Strayer, Akron, Indiana, children, Dustin Strayer, Jeremy Strayer, Jacob Strayer, all of Logansport, Indiana, Shaela Strayer, Peru, Indiana, Jordan Strayer, Akron, Indiana, fifteen grandchildren, sister, Cindy Strayer, Logansport, Indiana, brother, Josh Anderson, Logansport, Indiana, step-mother, Donna Strayer, Lynchburg, Virginia, step-sister, Beth Rudd, Lynchburg, Virginia, step-brother, Chuck Butcher, Hurt, Virginia, several nieces and nephews. He was preceded by his parents, sister, Tammy Reed, brother, Jerry Strayer, and three grandchildren.

Funeral services will be conducted at 1:00 P.M. Wednesday September 21, 2022, at Zimmerman Bros. Funeral Home, Rochester, Indiana. Friends may visit from 11:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M. Wednesday at the funeral home. Burial will be in the Odd Fellows Cemetery, Rochester, Indiana. Memorial contributions may be made to the Christopher Strayer Memorial Fund. Online condolences may be expressed at www.zimmermanbrosfh.com

Jackie S. Widman, 46, of Rochester, passed away at 7:55 AM on Monday, September 12, 2022 at the Pulaski Memorial Hospital, Winamac.  She was a breast cancer survivor since 2016.

On December 17, 1975, Jacqueline Sue Widman was born in Winamac. She was a treasured daughter of Paul and Betty Davis Widman.  Growing up she shared her childhood with two sisters Tracy and Christy.  With great Cavelier pride, Jackie graduated from Culver Community High School in 1994.  During her high school years, she was a member of the Business Club.

With a desire to help others and continue her formal education Jackie went to Indiana State University to study social work.  She earned her bachelor's degree in 1998.  Persevering to continue on, she graduated in 1999 from IUPUI in Indianapolis with a master's in social work.  She was currently was employed with Family Focus in Valparaiso.  

To relax Jackie enjoyed crafting, her specialty was creating tumblers or using her Cricut machine to make custom gifts for her family and special friends.  She found great joy in baking cakes and decorating to suit the special occasion or theme.  Painting on canvas with acrylics or watercolor was a way to express her thoughts and feelings.

A huge Cubs' fan, Jackie also enjoyed relaxing by watching a movie, or listening to the music.    Paramount in Jackie's life was her family. She enjoyed getting together for spirited game nights, celebrating special occasions and spending time at the holidays making memories.

Left to cherish Jackie's memory are her daughter Grace A. Stevens, parents Paul and Betty Widman all of Rochester, 2 sisters Tracy Widman and her husband Greg Bayer of Atlanta, Georgia, Christy Havron and husband Jeff of Rochester. She was an Aunt to Brandon Havron, Joshua Havron, Zoe' Bayer and husband Windsor Jones, and A.K. Bayer.

A celebration of the life of Jackie Sue Widman will be at 3:00 PM on Friday, September 16th, 2022 at the Good family Funeral home, 1200 West 18^th Street, Rochester.  Pastor Bruce Russell will officiate.

Her family will receive friends on Thursday, September 15 from 4:00 - 7:00 PM at the funeral home and an hour prior to services on Friday. 

Burial will follow at the Leiters Ford Cemetery.

Memorials in lieu of flowers may be made to the Fulton County Animal Education and Adoption Center, 1540 Wentzel Street, Rochester, IN  46975 or The Fulton County Cancer Fund, thru the Northern Indiana Community Foundation, 227 Est 9^th Street, Rochester, IN  46975. 

Online expressions of sympathy may be made to Jackies family at www.goodfamilyfh.com 

Janet Marlene White, 87, of Rochester, bid us a fond farewell on the early evening of Tuesday, September 13, 2022.  

On October 27, 1934, Janet Marlene Keesey was born in Akron.  She was a treasured daughter of Odie Merle and Nona Van Lue Keesey.  Janet came into the world destined to be a charmer as the namesake of two screen star beauties Janet Gaynor and Marlene Dietrich, two of her father's favorite actresses.  She was classy,  sassy and lived up to the name with a likeable personality and glamor girl, looks that eventually caught the eye of her first husband William A. Anderson. From their union came four wonderful children Debbie, Karen, Tracy and Doug.  The family tree continued to grow with the blessings of two more generations.

Growing up in a large and loving family, Janet was the youngest of 12 siblings.  She attended the Akron Schools then graduated with the Akron High School Flyers Class of 1953.   Later that year on December 5, 1953 she married William Anderson sadly he preceded her in death on April 28, 1984.  

On February 17, 1989, Janet married Tom White in Rochester.  They shared 22 years of life's adventures.  Sadly, he preceded her in death on October 20, 2011. 

As a homemaker, Janet enjoyed life living on Lake Manitou while being involved with her many interests and activities.  She was a good cook, had an eye for antiques and was a charter member of the Women of the Moose since 1973.  She was a member of the Eagles Ladies Auxiliary since 2012.

A lady of diverse interests, Janet was Julia Child, Martha Stewart, American Pickers and the Antique Road Show all rolled into one.  She had a knack for knowing value, she had a flare for decorating and she made a profound art of making a house a home.  Janet could laugh at herself yet, she possessed the skills of strength when life treated her roughly.  Janet took everything in stride, all the way to her exit.  Her greatest attribute was her ability to love with her whole heart and in return she was loved fiercely.

Left to cherish Janet's memory are her children Debbie (Mark) Tyler, Karen Anderson all of Rochester, Tracy Anderson and wife Yolanda Sandoval of Seattle, WA,  Doug (Angie) Anderson of Rochester 5 grandchildren Corey (Jenny) Tyler, Craig (Jenna) Tyler, Courtney Tyler, Mindy Schwarte and companion Pandgey Parry, Angie (Ryan) Rich; 11 Great-Grandchildren Shaela, Shelby, Shandy, McKinzie, Kennedy, Landon, Luke, Tyler, Riley, Hannah, Emerson; a sister Pat Stansbury of Rochester, special life-long friend since first grade Nellene Rentschler.

Preceding Janet in death are her husbands William A. Anderson, Tom White, 7 sisters Doris Ellis, Mable Florence Baber, Helen Putterbaugh, Evelyn Miller, Ruby Cumberland,  Katheryn Hatch,  Sue Smith; 3 brothers Robert Dean Keesey, Raymond Keesey, and Fred Keesey.

A celebration of the life of Janet Marlene White will be at noon on Saturday, September 17, 2022 at the Good Family Funeral Home, 1200 West 18^th Street, Rochester.

Her family will receive friends from 10:00 am till the hour of the service. Chaplain Tim See will officiate.   

Burial will follow in the Rochester IOOF Cemetery.   

Memorials in lieu of flowers may be made to the Fulton County Cancer Fund thru the Northern Indiana Community, 227 East 9^th Street, Rochester, IN  46975 or The Lake Manitou Association, P.O. Box 376, Rochester, IN  46975 or the Alzheimer's Association 322 Eighth Avenue, 7^th Floor, NY  NY  10001. 

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

Patty Ann Davis, 79, of Monterey (formerly of Indianapolis, IN and Summerfield, FL) passed away at home surrounded by family on Thursday, August 18, 2022. 

She was born on March 21, 1943 in Indianapolis, IN to the late Raymond E. and Agnes L. [Foster] Dawson. 

Patty married Walter Guss Davis on December 31,1961.He passed away on August 2, 2015.

Patty enjoyed crocheting and playing board games.  She was an avid Elvis Presley fan.  Most of all, she was a loving mother, grandmother, and great grandmother who will be dearly missed.

She is survived by:

Robin (Bill) Reinhold, Monterey, IN Daughter

Kristi Sierra, Granddaughter

Andrew (Maya Ward) Barkley, Grandson

Colin (Paloma Escalante) Barkley, Grandson

Jonathon Ricks, Grandson

Jay Davis, Grandchild

Heather (Jesse Franklin) Davis, Granddaughter

Amy (Michael) Church, Granddaughter

Dustin (Eva) Reinhold, Grandson

Cole Reinhold, Grandson

Logan Reinhold, Grandson

14 Great Grandchildren: Brennan, Ryle, Addison, Avery, Lily, Triston, Jackson, Carston, Ashon, Ridge, Alexander, Bryan, CJ, and Angelo

Preceded in death by:

Raymond E. and Agnes L. [Foster] Dawson, Parents

Walter Guss Davis, Husband

Melody Garrison, Daughter

Michael Davis, Son

Raymond Dawson, Infant Brother

Ernest Dawson, Brother

Graveside Services for Patty Ann Davis will be held at 5 PM EDT on Tuesday, September 20, 2022 Riverside Memorial Cemetery in Monterey, IN with Chaplain Tim Lee officiating.

The Monterey American Legion will conduct Military Graveside Services for Walter Guss Davis following Patty’s Services on Tuesday, September 20, 2022Riverside Memorial Cemetery in Monterey, IN.

Patty and Walter will both be laid to rest following servicesat Riverside Memorial Cemetery in Monterey, IN. 

Memorial Contributions may be made to Kindred Hospice or Monterey American Legion.

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

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

Royal Garland “Jack” Fites, Jr., 91, of Winamac, passed away on Friday, September 2, 2022 at the Pulaski Health Care Center in Winamac. 

Jack was born September 3, 1930 in Winamac to the late Hazel A. [Hewitt] and Royal Garland “Jack” Fites, Sr. He graduated from Winamac High School in 1948.

Jack married Pauline Elizabeth Becker on January 3, 1953 at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Winamac. He was preceded in death by Pauline on October 10, 2017.
 

While in high school, Jack worked at the newspaper in town and at Fitz’ Garage. He entered the US Army during the Korean War and was proud to be a paratrooper in the 11th Airborne Division. After leaving military service, he attended business school to become an accountant. Jack then worked for Courier Newsome in Logansport, North Express in Winamac, and finally retired from Biggs in Lafayette.

Jack loved his family and delighted in visits from them. He was also involved in many organizations in town including: The Fraternal Order of the Eagles, Knights of Columbus where he served as Grand Knight and was a 4th degree member, and the American Legion. Jack continued to attend St. Peter’s Catholic Church through the years.

Those who knew Jack were aware of his love for tinkering with tools and engines, inventing gadgets, working in his yard, assisting Pauline with her garden, and his many woodworking projects. In recent years he enjoyed ordering pizza from the local Pizza Hut when family came into town, conversing with local business employees regularly, and rumor has it that he earned notoriety as the devoted husband who walked to the cemetery daily to visit his beloved wife Pauline’s final resting place.

Jack delighted in his constantly growing family. He will be greatly missed by those who knew him and loved him and the many lessons he taught will live on for generations to come. 

He is survived by:

Diane (Bill) Moyer, Coldwater, MI daughter

Jeff (Robin) Fites, Commerce Twp., MI son

Andrea (Troy) Tennyson, Union City, MI granddaughter

Erica (Chris) Saggau, Jacksonville Beach, FL granddaughter

Scott (Megan) Fites, Waunkee, WI grandson

Kateri (Ben) Gilliland, Carnation, WA granddaughter

MaryBeth (Nathan) Deinlein, Denver, CO granddaughter

Emma Tennyson, great granddaughter

Aubrey Tennyson, great granddaughter

Peter Fites, great grandson

Addilyn Tennyson, great granddaughter

Paul Fites, great grandson

Olivia Saggau, great granddaughter

Elara Gilliland, great granddaughter

Oliver Saggau, great grandson

Orion Gilliland, great grandson

Preceded in death by:

Royal G. Fites, Sr., father

Hazel A. [Hewitt] FitesCassaday, mother

Pauline E. [Becker] Fites, wife

A Scriptural Wake Service will be held at 3:30 PM EDT Thursday, September 22, 2022 at Frain Mortuary in Winamac with Rev. Leroy Kinnaman officiating.

Visitation will be from 4:00-7:30 PM EDT Thursday, September 22, 2022 at Frain Mortuary in Winamac.

The Rosary will be recited at 7:30 PM EDT Thursday, September 22, 2022 at Frain Mortuary in Winamac followed by Knights of Columbus Service.

A Funeral Mass will be held at 10:00 AM EDT Friday, September 23, 2022 at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Winamac with Rev. Leroy Kinnaman officiating.

Burial will take place at St. Peter’s Cemetery in Winamac.  The American Legion and VFW will conduct Military Graveside Services.

Memorial Contributions may be made to St. Peter’s Cemetery or Memorial Swinging Bridge Fund. 

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

Arrangements have been entrusted to Frain Mortuary in Winamac.

Pamela K. Jones, 68, Rochester, passed away at 9:05 A.M. Wednesday, September 7, 2022 at Lutheran Hospital, Fort Wayne, Indiana.

She was born on September 26, 1953 in Peru, Indiana, the daughter of John and Rhea (Dollens) Pryor. On November 16, 1985, she married Charles “Chuck” Jones, who preceded her in death on February 23, 2019.

She loved going to her grand kids sporting events and being their number one cheerleader. She was a Cubs fan and was remembered as the number one fan of the local little league.  Pamela was also a die-hard Notre Dame fan, dedicating a room in her house, decorated in Notre Dame colors and memorabilia. She loved to fly fish, being a member of a ski-club in her younger years, and continued her passion for the water by living on the river.  Pamela had such great compassion with a listening ear for everyone she met, which served her well for being a volunteering sponsor for Al-Anon.

Survivors include her daughters, Elizabeth “Lisa” Rentschler, Fulton, Indiana, Korby Jones and fiancé Ryan Eaton, Rochester, Indiana, son, Aaron (Courtney) Jones, Rochester, Indiana, step-daughter, Andrea (Scot) Howdeshell, Rochester, Indiana, grandchildren, Tierney Rentschler, Tori Rentschler, Olivia Powell, Taylor Jones, Tanner Jones, Grayson Jones, Evan Eaton, Elizabeth “Ellie” Eaton, Emma Howdeshell, Mia Howdeshell, sister, Carol (Greg) Amend, Mason, Ohio, brother, J.D. Pryor and partner Doug Werner, Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents.

No services are scheduled at this time. Arrangements by Zimmerman Bros. Funeral Homes Rochester, Indiana. On line condolences may be expressed at www.zimmermanbrosfh.com

Clarence Eugene Worley, known to many as “Butch” or “Chubby,” 76, Peru, passed away at 4:45 a.m. on Monday, September 12, 2022, at Dukes Memorial Hospital, Peru. 

Born April 9, 1946, in Litchfield, Illinois, he was the son of Roy and Roma L. (Swires) Straub.  On March 28, 1969, at the First Church of Christ in Peru, Indiana, he was married to Carla Louise McKinney, who survives.

He graduated from Maconaquah High School in 1967 and worked as a meat cutter for Marburger Foods before starting his long career as a mechanic at Pate/Paul Richards Chevrolet, where he worked since 1968.  He retired in 2000 and then went to work at Caring Hands Nursing Home, where he worked in maintenance for thirteen years before retiring from work and heading to his garage where he spent many hours working on projects in his favorite place at home.  

Survivors include is wife, Carla L. Worley, Peru; four sons, Clarence Eugene Worley, Jr., Peru; David Alan (Lori a.k.a. “Rosie”) Worley, Peru; Jason Matthew (Jennifer) Worley, Peru; Gary Lee Worley, Peru;  twelve grandchildren; and nine great-grandsons; two brothers, Kenneth (Bunny) Worley, Indianapolis.; Edward (Carol) Straub, Alaska; and sister, Kathy (Charlie) Brehmer, Peru; as well as several nieces and nephews.  

He was preceded in death by his parents, and one granddaughter Brandy Kay Worley.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, September 16, 2022, at the Grissom Church of Christ with Evangelist Shane Caps officiating.  

Private burial will be in Enterprise Cemetery, northern Miami County.  

Visitation will be from 11:00 a.m. until the time of the service on Friday at the church.  

Memorial contributions may be directed towards the family to help with final expenses.  

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

Candace L. “Candy” Bitterling, 75, of Knox, formerly of Winamac, passed away on Friday, September 9, 2022 at Wintersong Village in Knox. 

She was born on December 3, 1946 in Knox to the late Elmer “Bud” and Jennie [Bieniewicz] Phillips, Jr.  

On April 7, 1984, Candy married Jay E. “Moondoggie” Bitterling in Beardstown, IN.  He passed away on August 31, 2019.

Candy had previously worked at Winamac Steel and Eaton’s in Winamac.  Over the years, she also did tax preparation and sold insurance.  She was a longtime member of the Winamac Eagles. 

Candy enjoyed playing BINGO as well as drinking Coca-Cola and coffee.  She also enjoyed watching her husband, sons, and grandsons race.  Most of all, she loved spending time with her family, especially her grandkids.  Candy will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

She is survived by:

Jesse (Rhonda) Bitterling, Star City, IN Son

Jamie (Dan) Wenzler, Kewanna, IN Daughter

Jason (Christy) Bitterling, Star City, IN Son

13 Grandchildren: Jorden Bitterling, Trevor Bitterling, Will Planck, Matthew (Becca) Wenzler, Nathan Wenzler, Josh Wenzler, Jared Wenzler, Austen (Tasha) Brown, Dalten (Kaci) Allman, Brittany Cornwell, Alyssa Cornwell, Jason Bitterling, Jr. and Braxton Bitterling

8 Great Grandchildren: Leeland, Claire, Leon, Haylee, Christopher, Evelyn, Harper and Jaxon

Preceded in death by:

Elmer “Bud” and Jennie [Bieniewicz] Phillips, Jr., Parents

Jay E. “Moondoggie” Bitterling, Husband

Leslie Phillips, Son

The family will host a Celebration of Life Service on Sunday, October 2, 2022 from 2 PM to 5 PM EDT at the Winamac Eagles.

Private Burial will take place at Mt. Zion Franklin Twp. Cemetery in Winamac.

Memorial Contributions may be made to Kindred Hospice  or Warrior Youth Baseball. 

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

Cremation Arrangements have been entrusted to Frain Mortuary in Winamac.

Clara Holloway Childress, 88, of Warsaw and formerly of Rochester, passed away at 1:05 PM on Tuesday, September 6, 2022 at the Mason Health Care of Warsaw.

On December 21, 1933, Clara Lou Foley was born in Pulaski County to Walter and Nellie Ferguson Foley.

Clara and Lester D. “Sonny” Holloway were married on July 16, 1952. Sadly, he passed away on April 18, 1987. Later she married Alvie Childress who passed away  in February  of 1996.

Clara worked at Switches of Leiters Ford in automotive wiring for a number of years. She was member of the Church of The Nazarene of Rochester.

As an avid baker, Clara enjoyed baking cookies, cakes and pies for her family and friends. Going to flea markets was a great place for her to find treasures. Her latest crafting projects were 3-dimensional figurines. Fishing the beautiful waters of Lake Manitou was very relaxing and Clara managed to catch the limit.

Left to cherish Clara's memory are a daughter, Debbie Boyer of Rochester; a son, Michael “Buffy” Holloway and companion Teresa Brown of Warsaw; nine grandchildren: Jamie Boyer and wife Lisa, Sonny Kollars, Keith McVay and wife Joanie, Kevin McVay, Christopher, Marshall, and Dan; and several nieces and nephews.

Preceding Clara in death are her parents; husband; daughter Rose McVay; son Dan Holloway; a sister, Thelma Yoder; three brothers: Gene Foley, Gale Foley and Dale Foley; and her canine companion, Lady Girl, her English Springer Spaniel.

A celebration of the life of Clara Holloway Childress will be at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, September 13, 2022 in the Good Family Funeral Home, 1200 West 18th St., Rochester. Pastor Terry Baldwin will officiate.

Friends may visit with the family from 9-11 AM in the funeral home.  

Interment will be in the Citizens Cemetery of Rochester.  

Memorials may be made to the Fulton County Cancer Fund through the Northern Indiana Community Foundation, 227 East 9th St., Rochester, IN 46975 or  S S&P Foundation, 107 W. Eisenhower St. Mentone, IN 46539.

Cecil Andrew Guess, 80, of Argos, Indiana passed away on September 10, 2022 at 5:10 p.m. in Majestic Care, Sheridan, Indiana.

On November 10, 1941, Stevenson, Alabama he was born to Jackson “Jack” Andrew Guess and Loney May (Roberts) Guess. He had lived in the Argos community since 2001, coming from Steger, Illinois.

On August 26, 2000 he married Sharon L. Edwards and together they shared the next 22 years with each other.

He worked for Water and Sewage Labors Union Local #5 in Chicago Heights for nearly 50 years.  Cecil was a member of Local #5, Chicago Heights, Illinois.

Cecil is survived by his Wife – Sharon Guess of Argos, Indiana

Sons – Johnny Guess and wife Cheyenne of Argos, Indiana; and Jeremy Smith and wife Monica of Greenwood, Indiana

Daughters – Cindy Conley and husband Joe of Rochester, Indiana; Sandy Monnier and husband Dennis of Rochester, Indiana; Karen Guess of Tippecanoe, Indiana

14 Grandchildren           11 Great-Grandchildren

Sisters – Helen Gay and husband Rich of Manteno, Illinois; and Betty Sandling of Lowell, Indiana

He is preceded in death by his: Parents; Grand Daughter – Juniper Guess; Brothers – Johnny Guess, Raymond Guess, Jack Guess Jr., James Guess; Sisters - Nancy Hutchcock, Grace Culver, Ruby Heatherly, Bobbie Tucker, and Sue Barnett

Friends may visit with the family on Friday September 16, 2022 from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. at the Earl-Grossman Funeral Home, 208 N. Michigan St., Argos, Indiana.

Funeral Services will follow at 1:00 p.m. at the funeral home with David Barnett and his final place of rest will be New Oakhill Cemetery, Plymouth, Indiana.

Memorial Contributions may be made to help the family with final expenses at: Cecil A. Guess Memorial Fund – 208 N. Michigan St., Argos, Indiana 46501  

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

Catherine "Cathy" Amelia (Bowles) Lee, 58 of Mentone,  passed away on September 8, 2022 at 12:23 p.m. at her residence.

On June 26, 1964 in Fort Wayne, Indiana she was born to James H. Bowles Jr. and Sandra K. (Glenn) Bowles. She had lived in Mentone community since 1991, having came from Tulsa, Oklahoma.

Cathy was a factory worker having worked at Crystal Lake Egg Products, Atwood, Indiana.

Cathy attended Harrison Center Church, Etna Green, Indiana; she was a licensed Bench Judge with (UKC) United Kennel Club and served as the secretary of the Silver Lake Coon Hunters Club. Cathy had been a member of the Nappanee Raceway and Harnessed Raced with the I.T.P.A.

She was a graduate of Columbia City High School with the class of 1982.

Cathy is survived by her Husband – Tim Lee of Mentone, Indiana

Daughters – Ashley N. Caudill and husband Harry of Silver Lake, Indiana; Amanda Lee of Warsaw, Indiana

Sons- Jerrad Schlemmer of Pierceton, Indiana; Zachary Lee and wife Stephanie of Pierceton, Indiana

9 Grandchildren

Sisters – Denise Carroll and husband John of Columbia City, Indiana; Sandra Bowles-Johnson of Memphis, Tennessee

Aunt – Allison Furge and husband AJ of Fort Wayne, Indiana

Uncle – Denny Glenn and wife Anita of Lima, Ohio

She is preceded in death by her: Parents; Brother – James H. Bowels III

Friends may visit with the family on Sunday September 11, 2022 from 3 p.m. – 4 p.m. at the Harrison Center Church, 965 800 W., Etna Green, Indiana. 

Memorial Services will be held following the visitation on Sunday September 11, 2022 at 4:00 p.m. at the church with Rev. Mark Burritt of Harrison Center church.

Memorial Contributions may be made to help the family with final expenses at: Cathy A. Lee Memorial Fund – 208 N. Michigan St., Argos, Indiana 46501 or Animal Welfare League, 1048 S. 325 E., Pierceton, Indiana 46562 

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

Marilou Priscilla Hartzler Hoehne, 97, Sun City, Arizona, died Friday, May 20, 2022, in Arizona. 
                         
Born October 15, 1924, near Akron, Indiana, she was the daughter of Orville (Pete) and Ossie Junevieve Perry Hartzler. She married Owen Gene Hoehne on June 22, 1946, at Fulton, Indiana, and he preceded her in death on July 13, 2014. 
 
A graduate of Fulton High School, she attended Manchester College, then was employed by the Farmers and Merchants Bank at Fulton and Rochester, Indiana, and then later by the Oxford State Bank of Otterbein, Indiana.  After moving to Phoenix, she received her Bachelor’s degree from Grand Canyon University and her Master’s degree from Arizona State University in Tempe. She taught English, Reading, Composition, and the Bible as Literature at Sunnyslope High School in Phoenix for twenty-two years before retiring in 1986.
 
Marilou was a seventy-six year member of the Fulton/Rochester Order of the Eastern Star, Delta Sigma Kappa Sorority, Ventura Club, Local and National Questors Club, the Fulton Baptist Temple and Volunteer Services of Boswell Memorial Hospital in Sun City. She worked with Cub Scouts, Brownies, summer youth programs, enjoyed traveling and sewing, and was an avid reader.
 
Surviving are are two children, Robert Owen, Lubbock, Texas; and Priscilla Lynne of Sun City, Arizona; a sister, Martha Ann Leavell, Hastings, Nebraska; and a brother, James Hartzler, Rochester, Indiana; as well as ten nieces and nephews. 
 
In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her only grandson, Jeremy Robert Hoehne; her parents; and a sister, Lillian Sue Pownall.
            
A memorial service will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 17, 2022, at McClain Funeral Home, Denver, Indiana, with Pastor Bruce Russell officiating.

 Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service, at the funeral home.  

A luncheon will follow at the FBT Center in Fulton.  

Memorial contributions may be sent to the Fulton Cemetery, c/o McClain Funeral Home, PO Box 248, Denver, Indiana 46926

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

Eliza Marie Hopkins, 83, of Francesville, passed away on Sunday, September 9, 2022 at Parkview Haven Retirement Home in Francesville. 

She was born on November 22, 1938 in Pike County, KY to the late John and Mintie [Wallen] Harris.  Eliza’s father passed away when she was five and soon after, the family moved from Kentucky to Indiana. 

On September 18, 1954, she married Hargis Hopkins, Jr. at Bailey’s Corner Church. Junior passed away on August 13, 2013.

Eliza worked many years as a CNA at Parkview Haven.  She also had worked at Schumacher Electric and Gehring Farms for numerous years.  Most important to Eliza were the years she spent as a loving and devoted homemaker. 

Eliza was a humble Christian woman.  She enjoyed gardening, canning, cooking, and mowing.  Eliza loved her family very much and will be dearly missed.

Eliza and Junior are reunited and will be together forever. 

She is survived by:

H. Timothy Hopkins, Monterey, IN Son

Gregory G. (Michelle E.) Hopkins, Francesville, IN Son

Anthony Ray (Tina) Hopkins, Francesville, IN Son

Darrell (Linda) Hopkins, Rochester, IN 

14 Grandchildren: Rick, Jennifer, Kelly, TJ, Greg II, Cody, Brett, Nathan, Taylor, Drake, Krista, DJ, Angel, and Jimmy

Numerous Great Grandchildren and Great Great Grandchildren 

Many Nieces and Nephews

Preceded in death by:

John Harris, Father

Mintie [Wallen] Harris Hill, Mother

Glenn Hill, Step Father

Hargis Hopkins, Jr., Husband

Debra Marie Hopkins, Daughter

1 Granddaughter: Alicia

1 Great Granddaughter: Skyler

3 Sisters: Jean, Jeanette, and Emily

3 Brothers: Joseph, Bobby, and Harry

1 Half Brother: Willie

Visitation will be from 11 AM – 1 PM EDT Wednesday, September14, 2022 at Frain Mortuary Querry-Ulbricht Chapel in Francesville, IN.

Funeral Services will be held at 1 PM EDT Wednesday, September14, 2022 at Frain Mortuary Querry-Ulbricht Chapel in Francesville, IN with Pastor Dennis Gutwein officiating.

Private Disposition will take place at a later date.

Memorial Contributions may be made to the First Baptist Church in Francesville.

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

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

Diane Lynn Peppers, 61, Denver, passed away on Sunday, September 4, 2022, at Lutheran Hospital, Ft. Wayne. 

Born June 21, 1961, in Davenport, Iowa, she was the daughter of Kenneth LeRoy Sharrett, Sr. and Dorothy C. (Scott) Sharrett.  On May 21, 1988, in Davenport, Iowa, she was married to Michael Allen Peppers, and he survives.  

She attended high school in Davenport, Iowa.  She worked in various retail jobs over the years and enjoyed going out shopping.  

Survivors include her husband, Mike Peppers, Denver;  daughter, Jami (Derek) Irwin, Kewanna; son, Keith Peppers, Denver; mother, Dorothy Sharrett, Davenport; sister, Chris Ann (Todd) Hendricks, Davenport; four grandchildren, Vivian Butner, Angel Butner, Hunter Butner, and Marybeth Hooper; and father and mother-in-law, Bill and Sharon Peppers, Denver.  
She was preceded in death by her father, and one brother, Kenneth LeRoy Sharrett, Jr.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Monday, September 12, 2022, at McClain Funeral Home, Denver, with Pastor Tom Richards.  Burial will follow in Westlawn Cemetery, Denver.  

Visitation will be from 11:00 a.m. until the time of service on Monday, at the funeral home. 

Memorial contributions may be made to Riley Children’s Hospital. 

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

Gerry M. Hizer, 75, of Kewanna, was surrounded by his loving family when he passed away on Sunday evening, September 4, 2022 at his home.

On February 28, 1947, Gerry Michael Hizer was born in Rochester to Frank and Naomi Apt Hizer. Growing up he shared his childhood with a sister Darla. Proudly he graduated with the class of 1964 from Caston North High School.  With great athletic prowess, Gerry played at the guard position on the basketball team. He was also a member of the National Honor Society.  Answering the call of patriotism, Gerry served with the US Army.

On May 30, 1966, Gerry and Cheryl Jean Carr were married in Kewanna. They shared 38 years of life’s adventures. Sadly, Cheryl passed away on November 2, 2004. Their union produced a beautiful daughter Chera and two handsome son, Brett and Scott. 

On August 22, 2009, Gerry and Mary Ann were married in the Kewanna United Methodist Church.  They blended their families and Gerry enjoyed the acquisition of new additions to the family tree. 

With a servant's heart, Gerry was on the executive board of Wabash Valley Power and the Fulton County REMC both for over 25 years.  He served as president for the FC REMC at the time of his retirement.  He served on the Fulton County Fair Board for 10 years and was a dedicated member of the Grass Creek Lions Club.  Other memberships include the Elks, Moose Lodge # 1107, Veterans of Foreign Wars James F. Talbott Post #1121 of Kewanna and the LeRoy Shelton America Legion Post of Rochester.

A second generation, life-long farmer with great passion for agriculture, Gerry was the founder of the Hizer Farms Partnership.  He was also the President of Hizer Farms Feed and Grain Transit Company.  Gerry was proud to oversee the Hizer farming operations with the assistance of his sons Brett and Scott.  Together they planted corn and soybeans annually.  He was looking forward to the harvest of 2022 ready to begin in a few weeks.  The family also operates a full turn key hog operation.

Since 20004 Gerry and his wife wintered in Ruskin, Florida where he enjoyed golf at Riverside Club and fishing on Tampa Bay for Sheepshead and Red Snapper. In his spare time, in Indiana he enjoyed hitting the links at Pondview.  Autumn brought on NFL football and Gerry was ready to cheer on the Chicago Bears.

Left to cherish Gerry's memory are his wife, Mary Ann;  a daughter, Chera Robbins of Logansport; two sons: Brett Hizer and wife Kim of Kewanna,  Scott Hizer and wife Renee of  Kewanna; a sister, Darla Mattice and husband Jim of Dayton, Ohio; seven grandchildren: Garrick Robbins, Chelsi Clark and husband Hunter, Karah Baumgardner and husband Trever, Brock Hizer, Blain Hizer and wife Brittany, Bradley Keller and Lance Keller ; three great grandchildren: Aspynn Hizer, Casynn Hizer, Truett Clark, with two more blessing due to arrive in February and May  2023; nieces and nephews: Darryl, Kim and Kristin; his blended family also includes son Chuck Smith and wife Janine and grandchildren: Taylor Smith, Michael Smith, Christopher Smith, Madison Smith, Megan Smith, Maya Tagoe, and Frankie Tagoe.  Preceding Gerry in death are his parents Frank and Naomi Hizer, beloved wife Cheryl Jean and blended daughter, Amy Tagoe.

A celebration of the life of Mr. Gerry M. Hizer will be at 11:00 AM on Saturday, September 10, 2022 in the Good Family Funeral Home, 1200 West 18th St., Rochester. Chaplain Todd Wilson will officiate.

Friends may visit with the family from 4-8 PM on Friday and one hour prior to the service in the funeral home.  

Interment will be in the Grass Creek Cemetery.  

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

Memorials may be made to the American Heart Association, 8645 Guion Road, Indianapolis, IN 46268. 

Carl V. Enyart, 91, of South Bend and formerly of Rochester, passed away at 4:07 PM on Sunday, September 4, 2022 at the Raclin House in Mishawaka.

Left to cherish Carl's memory are his wife, Patty; three children: Michael Paul Enyart and wife Katherine of Austin, TX, Kent Allen Enyart of South Bend, Susan Elaine Enyart Kish and husband Ken of Lafayette; five grandchildren: Genevieve Faulkner, Amarin Enyart, Jason Richardson and wife Erica, Lisa Williams and husband Rob, Justin Waggoner and wife Jessica; four great great-grandchildren: Alexandria, Dace, Kelli, Karen; sister Norma Jean Becker and husband Dale of Rochester; canine companion, Pennie a red mini Dachshund; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Preceding Carl in death are his parents; two sisters, Evelyn and Eileen; and four brothers: Wilson, Raymond, Kenneth and Emerson.

A celebration of the life of Mr. Carl V. Enyart will be at 12 noon on Friday, September 16, 2022 in the Good Family Funeral Home, 1200 West 18th St, Rochester.  Pastor  Rich Siri will officiate.

Friends may visit with the family from 10- 12 noon on Friday in the funeral home.  

Interment will be in the Rochester IOOF Cemetery.  

Memorials may be made to Mayo Clinic – Support Alzheimer’s Disease Research https://philanthropy.mayoclinic.org/ 

Barbara L. “Barb” Jones, 84, of Francesville, passed away Wednesday, August 31, 2022 at Parkview Haven Retirement Home in Francesville. 

She was born on November 26, 1937 in Mentone, IN to the late Harold R. and Florence W. “Betty” [Powers] Price. 

On May 28, 1976, Barb married Melvin L. Jones in Robertson County, TN.  He passed away on October 23, 2018. 

She was a beautician and also owned/operated the local tavern in Francesville for many years. 

On April 19, 2008, Barb lost her son Joseph Edward Younce, Jr. 

Barbs words to her family are as follows, “We have been through financial troubles, death of loved ones, additions, and illness, and have been there for each other to help in any way.  Making us a stronger family, and bringing us closer together.  Not many families have been as lucky as ours.  My journey through this life has been great.  I have walked the fields of Gettysburg, fly fished in the great Missouri river in the Rocky Mountains, sunbathed on the nude beaches, stood in the childhood home of John Wayne, walked in the house of George Armstrong Custer, and walked through the rooms of Ernest Hemingway’s home and sat at the typewriter where he wrote his famous novels on his boat, The Pillar.  I had a beer at #14 saloon in Deadwood (wild Bill Hickok’s favorite tavern), flew over the Grand Canyon, and sat in the front row to watch Old Faithful in Yellowstone Park, visited Mt. Rushmore and Crazy Horse monuments.  Through all of these journeys I have enjoyed, the proudest is seeing our family reunion every year for 20 years.  Where cousins, brothers, sisters, uncles and aunts have come together to meet and spend valuable time together.  The journey is now over and I go on to my destiny, which I consider just another journey.  So I leave you with these words, love one another, pray for one another, forgive one another.  Life is very short, do not waste your time and love to each other.  I am proud of all of you!”

She is survived by:

Bobbi Marshal, Daughter

Debra Clemons, Daughter

Brad Jones, Son

Ron Lowry, Son

Randy Lowry, Son

Abbey Clemons, Granddaughter

Frankie Clemons, Grandson

Jessica Younce, Granddaughter

Adam Younce, Grandson

Zayden Joseph Wireman, Great Grandson

Bev Carpenter, Sister

Bea Stephenson, Sister 

Several Nieces and Nephews

No services will be held. 

Private Burial will take place at Poplar Cemetery in Culver.

Memorial Contributions may be made to Humanitarian Distribution Center.

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

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

Richard B. “Rich” Knebel, 80, of Winamac, passed away at home on Thursday, September 1, 2022.  

He was born on May 12, 1942 in Winamac, IN to the late Samuel W. and Thresa J. Nierzwicki Knebel.  On June 16, 1962 in Cassopolis, MI Rich married Ellen J. Jachim.  She survives.

Rich began his lifelong career in dairy farming with his brother George as “Knebel Brothers” just after graduating high school. Together, along with his wife and three sons, they operated what is considered a small dairy farm (under 60 cows). With Rich's exceptional knowledge and skills in cattle pedigrees and breeding, Knebel Holsteins earned #1 ranking in Indiana for dairy production among small dairy farm operations and a ranking of 23rd across the United States.

Rich later turned this passion and enthusiasm into an educational dairy experience for families across the U.S. For the past 30 years, Rich and his family have traveled the U.S. from Texas to New York operating and exhibiting an agricultural education center whereby people can experience firsthand the birth of agricultural livestock including cattle, sheep, and pigs. Rich was taking the goodness of agriculture to the public 25 years before the term “Agri-tourism” was every coined. Rich's greatest love was family. When not working together on the farm, they enjoyed trips to dairy shows and the beaches in Florida. Rich was best known for his humor and lightheartedness, which was enjoyed by everyone he had the opportunity to meet.

He is survived by:

Ellen J. Jachim Knebel,  Winamac, IN Wife

Mark Knebel,  Winamac, IN Son

Dan (Jennifer) Knebel,  Winamac, IN Son

Rich (Tina) Knebel,  Winamac, IN Son

Grandchildren:

Garrett

Catherine

Caitlin

Cole

Schyler

5 Great grandchildren

George (Gladys) Knebel, Winamac, IN Brother

Preceded in death by:

Samuel W. and Thresa J. Nierzwicki Knebel, Parents

Wesley S. Knebel, Brother

Pearl Becker, Sister

Visitation will be from 11 AM EDT-12 Noon Saturday, September 10, 2022 at the Winamac Nazarene Church in Winamac.

Funeral Services will be held at 12 Noon Saturday, September 10, 2022 at the Winamac Nazarene Church in Winamac, IN with Pastor Gene Tanner officiating.

Burial will take place at the Winamac Cemetery in Winamac.

Memorial Contributions may be made to Gleaners Winners Give Milk https://give.gleaners.org/campaign/winners-give-milk/c405021 .

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

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

Sherry Lee (Smalley) Clausing, 83, passed away on Thursday, September 1, 2022 at 8:07 p.m. at Blair Ridge Health Campus in Peru.  

She leaves behind a grieving husband, Ken, Peru; daughter, Rebecca (Phil) Masters, Commerce Township, MI; and son, Christopher (Cara) Clausing of Crown Point.   She was the 11th generation of a 14 generation Smalley family that came to Massachusetts, twelve years after the Mayflower.  It took until the 6th generation for the family to find and settle in Fulton County, IN. 

Sherry was the oldest of 6 children born to Carl and Faye (Brunson) Smalley on April 29, 1939 in Peru, IN.  She was baptized at St. John’s Lutheran Church on August 4th, 1939.  She also attended St. John’s School for eight years and graduated from Peru High School in 1957. 

She worked as a secretary at Square D for 6 years before going to Valparaiso University where she earned her Bachelor’s Degree.  She taught English and Drama at Peru High School for a total of 5 years.  In the midst of those years, she took two years off from teaching to earn her Master’s from Indiana State University.  During that time she met Ken whom she married on August 5, 1972. 

For a number of years she was active in the Ole Olsen Community Theatre as an actress, director, and make-up director.  As her children went off to school, she started up and continued to be St. John’s Pre-School teacher for 24 years.  She sang for 30+ years in St. John’s choir and at Peru’s Community Easter Pageant. 

She truly was a great helpmate to her husband in his teaching and farming career.  She and her canning skills were his inspiration for their gardening venture which began in the backyard of their Peru home and which led through her great-grandfather’s garden near the 4-H Fairgrounds and also through a friend’s garden near Macy to finally landing them on their little farm (big garden once) near Chili, where they’ve lived since 1987.

The old age infirmities of knee replacements, then diabetes, then dementia and many falls certainly took their toll on her body, spirit, demeanor and personality.  But the loving, giving person that she truly was, her melodious voice, her infectious laughter, lively story-telling, and her downright bossiness at times will be truly missed by those who knew her and loved her.  Her parents, a brother Dennis, and a brother-in-law Gary Schulte preceded her in death. 

Also surviving are her siblings; Carl (Jill) Smalley, Robert (Lynn) Smalley, Patty Schulte, Linda (Gary) Sheneman, sister-in-law Kaye Smalley and grandchildren; Rachel, Joanna, and Noah Clausing and Eva and Abigail Masters, as well as many nieces, nephews, and in-laws.  

Funeral services will be held 12:00 p.m. (Noon) on Saturday, September 10, 2022, at St. John’s Lutheran Church at 181 W. Main St. in Peru, with Pastor Kenneth Greenwald officiating. 

Burial will follow at St. John’s Lutheran Cemetery on the west side of Peru.

Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. until noon on Saturday, at St. John’s.  

A preferred memorial would be something at St. John’s Lutheran Church but any remembrance, even a tip of the hat to a lady who tried to make the world just a little happier place would be appreciated.  

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

Theodore M. Nurmi 80, of Gary, passed away at 12:35 P.M. Thursday, September 1, 2022 at Methodist Hospital, Merrillville, Indiana.

He was born on August 9, 1942 in Brattleboro, Vermont, the son of Olavi Maurits and Beverly Helen (Berry) Nurmi. He had worked most of his life as a truck driver.

Survivors include his son, Pavo Kent, North Judson, Indiana and grandson, Dylan Paavo Kent, Wyoming. He was preceded in death by his parents and his siblings.

No services are scheduled at this time.

Arnold Lloyd Horn passed away peacefully on Thursday September 1, 2022.

Arnold was born on September 17, 1929, to Alden John William Horn and Gertrude Leora Brock in Marshall County, Indiana and spent his childhood working on the family farm in Mendota, Illinois.

After spending time in Trieste, Italy during the Korean War, he returned to Rochester where he met Ruth Kay Harvey at the root beer stand where she was a carhop. The two could be seen tooling around Rochester in Arnold’s pink convertible in the mid-1950s, Arnold with a sly grin on his face.

Arnold and Kay were married on December 27, 1959, at the Bethlehem Baptist Church and were married over 62 years. They have two loving daughters and sons-in-law, Kristy and Ian Sheeler and Beth and Myron Cohagan; two amazing grandchildren, Abigail and her husband Jacob Richard, and Evan Cohagan. They also have one precocious great granddaughter, Madison Marie Richard.

Arnold was a lifetime farmer, lover of all things out-of-doors, an avid hunter and gun enthusiast. At any time on the farm there may have been a dog, cats, pigs, a cow, and even a pony. Arnold could be found tinkering in his shed or swapping stories with his buddies over coffee. He retired from farming in the late 1990s and moved into Rochester where he has resided with Kay since 2004. Arnold attended Riverview Community Church and he loved spending time with his grandchildren and great granddaughter. His grandson Evan inherited his mechanical skills and surprised Grandpa Arnold by restoring his 1936 Farmall F-12 and 1929 Case L tractors.

Until recently he could be seen on his daily drives, starting first at the Streamliner for a breaded tenderloin, then out to the farms and past the country school where the Mennonite children would wave as he drove by.

Arnold is survived by his sister and her family, Wilma Jean Stamberger of Rochester. He is preceded in death by baby brother Horn, a sister, Maxine Horn. and his parents.

A celebration of the life of Mr. Arnold Horn will be at 10:00 AM Thursday, September 8, 2022 in the Good Family Funeral Home, 1200 West 18th Street, Rochester. 

His family will receive friends from 5:00 - 7:00 PM Wednesday and an hour prior to his services on Thursday.  Pastor Rod Ruberg will officiate. 

Burial will follow in the Rochester, IOOF Cemetery.

Dolores E. Hayden, 93, of Rochester, was surrounded by her loving family when she passed away at her home in the afternoon of September 4, 2022.

On March 21, 1929, Dolores Elaine Anderson was born in Fulton County near Leiters Ford.  She grew up in northern Miami County and graduated from Macy High School with her class in 1946.

In Indianapolis, on February 10, 1946 Dolores married Mr. Jack William Hayden.  They enjoyed 59 years of life's adventures.  From their union came three wonderful children Melinda, Jack and Mark.  The family tree continued to grow with the added blessings of three more generations.

In the earlier years Dolores worked at Wiles Department Store as a central processing clerk. She also created eye-catching window designs, placing the trending fashions, clothing the mannequins in the window for all to admire. Later she worked as a bookkeeper with the McMahon - O'Connor Construction Company.

An accomplished seamstress, Dolores made many things including wedding dresses for special members of her family.  She also enjoyed annually planting flowers to add color and enhance the landscape of her home.  On two occasions she was awarded "Gardener of the Month" from our local Garden Club for the beautiful gardens that surrounded her home.  Dolores enjoyed watching sports on TV.  She was always cheering for her favorite teams including the Indianapolis Colts, Chicago Cubbies and Notre Dame football.  

As the matriarch of the Hayden family, Grandma Dolores was proud to oversee five generations.  From her kitchen command post she made with lots of love their favorite foods on request including banana nut bread, potato salad and the most amazing chocolate chip cookies.  She was always there for her grands, the great-grands following their school activities and sporting events. Grandma Dolores looked forward to special family celebrations and getting together for the holidays.

Left to cherish Dolores' memory are her three children: Melinda (Bill) Burkett of Rochester, Jack (Karla) Hayden of Mentone and Mark Hayden of Rochester; seven Grandchildren: Jamie (Melissa) Hayden, Crissa (Ray) Fruits,  Gretchen (Erik) Murphy, Mark (Misti) Hayden Jr.,  Andrea (Mike) Harpe, Mandy (Jeff) Butcher, Allison (Sam) Fry; 15 Great-Grandchildren; a Great-Great-Grandson; and a brother Jackie (Donna) Anderson of Logansport.

Welcoming Dolores to Heaven are her parents, beloved husband Jack, infant son Gary Hayden, sister Joanne Albright and a daughter-in-law Gail Hayden.

A celebration of the life of Mrs. Dolores E. Hayden will be on Friday, September 9th at 11:00 AM, in the Good Family Funeral Home, 1200 West 18th Street, Rochester, IN  46975. 

Her family will receive friends an hour prior to her services. Pastor Mike VanHeyningen will officiate. 

Burial will follow at the Rochester IOOF Cemetery. 

Memorials in lieu of flowers may be made in Dolores name to the First Christian Church, 1101 Madison Street, Rochester, IN  46975.

Gertrude A. “Gert” Stout, 89, of Winamac, went home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, August 30, 2022. 

She passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her family. 

Gert was born on January 11, 1933 in Chicago, IL to the late Bruno F. and Bertha A. [Schieman] Bleicher.  When she was a little girl, her family moved to Ripley, IN where she attended a one room school.  Gert graduated from Winamac High School in 1951. 

On August 14, 1955, she married Kedrick D. Stout at Ripley Gospel Church.  He passed away on May 4, 1999. 

Gert was a member of Ripley Gospel Church until it closed at which time she moved her membership to Ora Gospel Church.  She was a member of the First Baptist Church in Francesville for over 15 years.  Gert was an active member of Christian Women’s Fellowship and Prisoner’s For Christ Ministry.  She enjoyed reading the Bible.  Gert was a devout Christian woman who loved and served the Lord faithfully. 

Gert was a proud homemaker who enjoyed gardening and canning as well as cooking and baking.  She was excellent at sewing and needlework.  More than anything, Gert loved her family very much.  She will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved her. 

She is survived by:

Kurt D. (Michaela) Stout, Pulaski, IN Son

Larry E. Stout, Winamac, IN Son

Donald (Lori) Stout, Grandson

Megan (Chitrak) Banerjee, Granddaughter

Kyla (Isaac Creech) Stout, Granddaughter

Claire Stout, Granddaughter

Tabitha Stout, Granddaughter

Kathryn Banerjee, Great Granddaughter

Edward (Elaine) Bleicher, Rawlings, WY Brother

Many Nieces and Nephews

Preceded in death by:

Bruno F. and Bertha A. [Schieman] Bleicher, Parents

Kedrick D. Stout, Husband

Alvin K. Stout, Son

Arthur E. Bleicher, Sr., Brother

Carl R. Bleicher, Brother

Robert P. Bleicher, Brother

Pvt. George H. Bleicher, US Army KIA, Brother

Lewis N. Bleicher, Brother

Esther R. Dust, Sister

Lydia A. Bleicher, Infant Sister

David Bleicher, Infant Brother

Orville L. Rife, Second Husband

Visitation will be from 4-8 PM EDT Tuesday, September 6, 2022 at First Baptist Church in Francesville, IN.

Funeral Services will be held at 11 AM EDT Wednesday September 7, 2022 at First Baptist Church in Francesville, IN with Pastor Dennis Gutwein officiating.

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

Memorial Contributions may be made to First Baptist Church in Francesville or Baptist Children’s Home in Valparaiso, IN.

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

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

Barbara L. “Barb” Jones, 84, of Francesville, passed away Wednesday, August 31, 2022 at Parkview Haven Retirement Home in Francesville. 

She was born on November 26, 1937 in Mentone, IN to the late Harold R. and Florence W. “Betty” [Powers] Price. 

On May 28, 1976, Barb married Melvin L. Jones in Robertson County, TN.  He passed away on October 23, 2018. 

She was a beautician and also owned/operated the local tavern in Francesville for many years.  On April 19, 2008, Barb lost her son Joseph Edward Younce, Jr. 

Barbs words to her family are as follows, “We have been through financial troubles, death of loved ones, additions, and illness, and have been there for each other to help in any way.  Making us a stronger family, and bringing us closer together.  Not many families have been as lucky as ours.  My journey through this life has been great.  I have walked the fields of Gettysburg, fly fished in the great Missouri river in the Rocky Mountains, sunbathed on the nude beaches, stood in the childhood home of John Wayne, walked in the house of George Armstrong Custer, and walked through the rooms of Ernest Hemingway’s home and sat at the typewrite r where he wrote his famous novels on his boat, The Pillar.  I had a beer at #14 saloon in Deadwood (wild Bill Hickok’s favorite tavern), flew over the Grand Canyon, and sat in the front row to watch Old Faithful in Yellowstone Park, visited Mt. Rushmore and Crazy Horse monuments.  Through all of these journeys I have enjoyed, the proudest is seeing our family reunion every year for 20 years.  Where cousins, brothers, sisters, uncles and aunts have come together to meet and spend valuable time together.  The journey is now over and I go on to my destiny, which I consider just another journey.  So I leave you with these words, love one another, pray for one another, forgive one another.  Life is very short, do not waste your time and love to each other.  I am proud of all of you!”

She is survived by:

Bobbi Marshal, Daughter

Debra Clemons, Daughter

Brad Jones, Son

Ron Lowry, Son

Randy Lowry, Son

Abbey Clemons, Granddaughter

Frankie Clemons, Grandson

Jessica Younce, Granddaughter

Adam Younce, Grandson

Zayden Younce, Great Grandson

Bev Carpenter, Sister

Bea Stephenson, Sister 

Several Nieces and Nephews

No services will be held. 

Memorial Contributions may be made to Humanitarian Distribution Center.

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

Private burial at Mentone Cemtery.

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

Dona Mae (Hopper) Maze, 99 of Wakarusa, and formerly of Argos, passed away on August 30, 2022 at 10:15 a.m. at Miller's Merry Manor, Wakarusa, Indiana.

On October 13, 1922 in Van Wert, Ohio she was born to Marion Hopper and Zula (Bice) Hopper. She moved to the Argos community in 1954 and lived there until 2017 when she moved to the Nursing Home in Wakarusa, Indiana.

On August 7, 1943 in Westfield, Indiana she married Joe R. Maze. He was in the United States Army Air Corp., so she stayed in Mishawaka until he returned in 1945. Together the would share 64 years until he passed away on September 11, 2007.

Dona was a Housewife/Homemaker.

Dona is survived by her Sons – Terry Maze and wife Jennifer of Sun Lakes, Arizona; and Jerry Maze of Florida

Grandchildren – Michael Maze of Colorado; William Maze and wife Nichole of Arizona; Angela Sullivan and husband Ryan of California; and Travis Maze and wife Robin of Wisconsin

5 Great Grandchildren

She is preceded in death by her: Parents; Husband; Sister – Marjorie Robinson; Special Niece - Debbie McQueen

Friends may visit with the family on Friday September 2, 2022 from 10:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. at the Earl-Grossman Funeral Home, 208 N. Michigan St., Argos, Indiana.   

Funeral Services will follow at 12:00 p.m. at the funeral home with family friend Dennis Bailey.  Burial will follow at Maple Grove Cemetery, Argos, Indiana.

Memorial Contributions may be made to: Argos Library, 142 N. Michigan St., Argos, Indiana or the Church of Choice   

Lillie Mae Shepherd, 69, of Knox, passed away on Monday, August 29, 2022 at Franciscan Health Hospital in Michigan City, IN. 

She was born on September 11, 1952 in Hardshell, KY to the late Simeon and Caroline [Harvey] Young.  On April 15, 1988, Lillie married Raleigh Shepherd in Nappanee, IN.  He passed away on July 16, 2021.

Lillie was a collector of anything related to frogs.  She enjoyed the outdoors, especially gardening.  Most of all, Lillie loved her family very much, especially her grandchildren and great grandchildren.  She will be deeply missed.

She is survived by:

Vicki Watson, Knox, IN Daughter

Raleigh Jay (Nikki) Shepherd, Goshen, IN Step Son

Eric Shepherd, Goshen, IN Step Son

2 Grandsons: Justin Kilcoyne and Tony Edmundson

2 Step Grandchildren

4 Great Grandchildren: Connor, Jayne, Danyelle, and Aiden

5 Step Great Grandchildren

Simeon (Gail) Young, Jr., Bremen, IN Brother

Paul Young, Tennessee Brother

Lowell (Mabel) Young, Kentucky Brother

Hazel Howard, Jackson, KY Sister

Many Nieces and Nephews

Preceded in death by:

Simeon and Caroline [Harvey] Young, Parents

Raleigh Shepherd, Husband

Daniel Edward McGuffie, Son

Denise Marie McGuffie, Infant Daughter

Robert Young, Brother

Pearl Young, Brother

Willie Young, Brother

Private Burial will take place at Winamac Cemetery (McKinley Addition) in Winamac, IN.

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

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

Joshua Wagoner, 43, of Rochester, passed away on Friday, August 26, 2022 at his residence.

On March 17, 1979, Joshua Nash was born in Rochester to Timothy Ross and Janet Seebauer Wagoner. Growing up he shared his childhood with a brother Timmy. Proudly he graduated with the class of 1997 from Rochester High School.

Josh worked with the family business, Wagoner & Sons Concrete. He was a member of the Moose Lodge Family Center of Rochester.

Left to cherish the memories of Josh are his daughter Madysen Arcuri and husband Anthony of Lafayette; mother Janet Wagoner of Rochester; brother Timmy Wagoner and companion Jenny Mathews of South Bend; grandmother Edna Dawn Murphy of Rochester; aunts and uncles: Becky and James Thomas, Melanie and Ron Ziesemer, Nancy Smith, Joyce and Jim Nedoff; and several cousins.

Preceding Josh in death are his father Timothy on February 9, 2022; maternal grandfathers Kenneth Seebauer, Robert Murphy; paternal grandparents Bob and Pat Wagoner; three uncles: Bob Wagoner, Ricky Seebauer and Mike Seebauer.

Doris Ann Lehman, 83, of Rochester, passed away peacefully at her son’s residence, surrounded by her loving family, at 8: 15 am Sunday, August 28, 2022.

She was born on July 11, 1939 in Rochester, the daughter of Margaret Leone McGriff and Harold Cecil Abbott.

Doris was a member of the Whippoorwill Church for 50 years.

She is survived by her son Shane Lehman and wife Julie of Rochester; daughter Lanae and husband Neville Button of Newfoundland. Also surviving are granddaughters Haley Lehman of Rochester and Molly and husband Chris Bandy of Rochester; her brother Don and wife Lois Abbott of Rochester, and her sister Janet and husband Jack Summers of Rochester.

At Doris’ request, there will be no visitation or service.

Memorials may be made to Hickory Creek at Rochester, 340 E. 18th St., Rochester, IN 46975 or Kindred Hospice 1476 W. 18th St., Rochester, IN 46975

Ershel Carlile, 78, of Rochester, passed away at 7:05 PM on Monday, August 29, 2022 at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center of Mishawaka.

On April 6, 1944 Arthur Ershel was born in Kentucky and was adopted by Herb and Setta Fields Carlile. Fulton County was home for most of his life. After high school, Ershel answered the call of patriotism and joined the US Air Force. He was honorably discharged in 1967.

Ershel and Marie “Micky” Catherine Sturgeon were married on October 8, 1970 in the First Christian Church of Rochester. They shared 50 years of life’s adventures. Sadly, she passed away on December 3, 2020.

Many will remember Ershel at The Barbershop of Akron for his grooming, using a comb and razor. He also worked as a forklift driver at R.R. Donnelly of Warsaw.

As lifetime members of the Manitou Moose Family Lodge, the Carliles enjoyed their reserved seating while gaming. Over the years they also loved to dance. Ershel and Micky often went “junking” and found treasures at the local garage sales.

Left to cherish Ershel's memory are two daughters: Mary Mills and husband Mike of Talma, Sherri Brock and husband Marty of Plymouth; son Gary Harrold of Kewanna;   nine grandchildren:  Ashlee Harper and fiancé Burnie Hayes, Mellisha Rensberger and husband Alan, Eljah Harper, Matthew Harrold, Leslie Einspahar, Brittany Thompson and husband Chayse, Haley Markley, Jory Harrold, Electa Witham; 12  great grandchildren: Rhemi Shaye Thompson, Ielliana Luse, Kamdin Harrold, Kayleigh Einspahar, Madison and Reese Rensberger, Kain Pattison, Makinzee Jordan, Warren Harper, Olliveia Messersmith, Whyatt Hayes,  Izaiah Harper, and Stryker Harper;  two sisters: Barbara Meyer of Midland, MI, Phyllis Hall and husband Bill of Casa Grande, AZ; a niece and three nephews.

Preceding Ershel in death are his parents, wife, two sons Larry Harrold, Terry Harrold and daughter-in-law Janie Ann Harrold.

Private family services will be held. Military honors will be conducted by the Fulton County Veterans Honor Guard and the US Air Force Honors Team. Interment will be in the Fulton Cemetery. 

James Rager, 73, of Knox, passed away at 5:07 PM on Tuesday, August 30, 2022 at Munster Community Hospital.

On November 29, 1948, James Lawrence was born in Johnstown, PA to Harry and Betty R. Bracken Rager.

Answering the call of patriotism, Jim joined the United States Air Force. After 20 years of service, he retired in 1987. He received several medals and badges including Outstanding Unit Award with Valor Device, Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal and Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Ribbon.

A favorite hobby was to build model airplanes. He also had a collection of eagles. Jim was a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars # 748 of Knox.

Jim and Carol Dugan were married for over 40 years. Sadly, she passed away on June 12, 2019.

Left to cherish the memories of Jim are daughter, Nicole Dilts and husband Joseph of Knox; four grandchildren: Elpien Lockmiller, Candice Lehman, Stephen Lehman and wife Elizabeth, Mark Lehman and wife Brooklyn; and a great granddaughter, Sierra.

Preceding Jim in death are his parents and wife.

A celebration of the life of James Lawrence Rager will be at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, September 7, 2022 in the Good Family Funeral Home, 1200 West 18th St., Rochester. Friends may visit with the family from 9-11 AM on Wednesday in the funeral home.   Military honors will be conducted by the Knox Veterans of Foreign Wars Honor Guard and the US Air Force Honors Team.

Rosa M. Figueroa, 78, of Rochester, passed away at 3:39 PM on Tuesday, August 30, 2022 at Howard Community Regional Health of Kokomo.

Rosa was born on October 30, 1943 in Cajabamba, Peru, South America, to Antonio and Adela G. Huertas Figueroa. Growing up she shared her childhood with seven siblings, in their home nestled among the Andes Mountains. Following her graduation from high school she went to the university to study education. Miss Rosa spent many years teaching in the elementary schools and was very loved and respected by her students.

Following her retirement in 2001, Rosa Maria came to live with her daughter Mili and family and made Fulton County home. She loved and treasured the time she spent with her children and the grandchildren, at the holidays and special family celebrations over the years. She was known to spoil her grandchildren; she cooked them their favorite meals on request. Rosa also dearly loved her church family at Whippoorwill Community Church. 

With her retirement, Rosa initiated a new chapter in her life as a missionary returning to her home country and independently started several small churches. She made an annual pilgrimage back to Peru,  spreading the word of God wherever she went—in the marketplace, on the bus, by the wayside. She always brought food and gifts to share and spent her time in the States gathering things to bring back and bless the poor. She possessed great faith and won many, many souls for Christ. Rosa possessed selfless courage, a generous heart and loved helping others improve their lives while growing their love for God.  

Left to cherish Rosa's memory are her mother, Adela Huertas; four children: Raul Escudero and his children, Fiorella, Roxana, Tatiana, Estrella, Adriana, Bryana and Jacob; Carlos Escudero and wife Lucia and their children Miracle, Adela, Karlos, Antonio, Zakiel and Sabba; Milagritos and husband Ivan Ramos and their children Stacy and Britney; Guida Escudero and husband Miguel Vera and their children Joaquin, Camila and Micaela. She also leaves to cherish her memory seven siblings: Humberto Figueroa and wife Nery and their children, Cynthia, Erika, Christian and Coco; David Figueroa and wife Wilma and their children Glennis, Rudy and Melissa; Arturo Figueroa, wife Nirvia and their children Juliane, Gabriela and Arturo; Zoila Figueroa and her children Edgardo and Ingrid; Consuelo Figueroa and husband Juau and their children Gian Carlo and Daniel; Martin Figueroa; Carlos Figueroa and wife Silvia and their children Karla and Mellanie. She also leaves behind many sisters of faith at the villages of her home country and in the United States.

Rosa Maria was preceded in death by her father.

A celebration of the life of Rosa Maria Figueroa will be at 12:00 Noon.  Her family will receive friends from 10:30 AM to noon, on Friday, September 2, 2022 at the Whippoorwill Community Church, 4795 N. 200 W. Rochester, Indiana. Pastor Brian Sewell will officiate.

Interment will be in the Richland Center Cemetery in Rochester.