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July 30, 2008
Mary H. Rollins, 66, a resident of Churubusco and wife of Clyde A. Rollins, died at 5:55 a. m. on Tuesday, July 29, 2008, at her home following an extended illness.
Virginia “Ginny” Elkins, 66
Virginia “Ginny” Elkins, 66, of Columbia City, died at 11:20 p.m. Tuesday, July 29, 2008, at Parkview Hospital, Fort Wayne where she was transported after becoming suddenly ill just hours earlier. 
She was born March 28, 1942, in Fort Wayne, Indiana a daughter of Jack L. and Joann M. (Mowry) Adkison. Her formative years were spent in Fort Wayne. She graduated from South Side High School.
She retired from Magnavox with 29 years of service and in 2006 retired from People Link with 12 years of service.
In 1986, she moved to her home in Columbia City. On September 12, 1992, she was united in marriage to Fred Elkins. Surviving relatives include her husband, Fred; her mother, Joann Stephenson of Columbia City; four children, Lisa (Steve) Schmoll of Columbia City, Susie (Brook) Vandezande of Garrett, Bobbie Simmons and Chip (Jenny) Stephenson of Columbia City; two step-children, Robert (Darna) Elkins of Green Bay, Wisconsin and Michelle (Nathan) Isaacs of Walton, Kentucky; 15 grandchildren; two brothers, Donald Adkison and Jack Adkison, both of Decatur; and four sisters, Beth Ann Adkison and Jeannie Adkison, both of Decatur, Sally Thiefs of Pennville and Penny Pettigrew of Hamilton, Ohio.
The funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, August 2, 2008, at Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City with Rev. Paul Arnold, pastor of Columbia City United Methodist Church, officiating. The burial will be in Greenhill Cemetery. The visitation will be from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Friday at the funeral home.
As she enjoyed reading, preferred memorials are to Peabody Public Library.
Marilyn Sue Coy, 60
Marilyn Sue Coy, age 60, of South Whitley died due to injuries sustained in an automobile accident Tuesday morning, July 29, 2008. 
Born on October 24, 1947, in Madison, Jefferson County, Indiana, she was the daughter of Charles Rae and Rosalie Charlotte (Scroggin) Warner.
Raised in Vevay, Indiana, she graduated with the Class of 1965 from Vevay High School.
On September 30, 1966, she was united in marriage to Wilfred E. Coy at Trinity Holiness Church in Vevay. In 1988, she and her husband moved to South Whitley.
A devoted housewife and mother, she was employed by Dana Coupling, Columbia City, since February 17, 1992, and she was a former employee of US Shoe Factory in Vevay for 16 years and Indiana Knit Wear, Columbia City. Her memberships included Eagles Auxiliary #1906, Columbia City, UAW #2049 and Centerview Community Church.
Survivors include her husband of 42 years, Wilfred E. Coy of South Whitley, IN; daughters, Jill Susan Coy of Fort Wayne, Lee Ann Cicero of South Whitley and Jade Starr Lopez of South Whitley; mother, Rosalie C. Warner of Fort Wayne; three grandchildren, including Dakota Nicollette Robinson of South Whitley, Dallas Cole Coy of Fort Wayne and Levi Kensington Coy of South Whitley; sisters, Carolyn Ann Ruter of Cincinnati, Ohio, Barbara Rae (Donnie Wayne) Scudder of Vevay, Greta Lee (Patrick) Connell of Los Angeles, California, Joetta Cheryl (Dan) Drobek of Leo, Becky Ruth Ross of Columbia City, and Harriett O. (Donald) Hathaway of North Manchester; brothers, Charles Noel (Denise) Warner of Arcola and Paul Thomas (Nikki) Warner, Sr. of Sunman, Indiana; a nephew and a niece raised by Marilyn and her husband, Jonathan William (Pammie) Smith of Versailles, Indiana, and Tina Lynn (Roy) Nettrover of Roan, Indiana. In addition to her father, she was preceded in death by a sister, Juanita Smithers, brothers-in-law, Lawrence Smithers, Perry Ross and David Smith, Sr., and nieces, Sabrina Clark and Conswelia Smith.
Visitation is 2-4 & 6-8 p.m. Friday, August 1, 2008 at DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home, 600 Countryside Drive, Columbia City, IN. Funeral service is 9:30 a.m. Saturday, August 2, 2008 at the funeral home with Pastor Roy Blake of Centerview Community Church officiating. Graveside service is 4 p.m. Saturday, August 2, 2008 at Vevay Cemetery, Vevay, IN. Memorial donations may be given to Mr. Coy. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.
To send family condolences or sign the guest register, please visit www.demoneygrimes.com
Walter Lewis Davis, 81
Walter Lewis Davis, age 81, of Columbia City, passed away at 3:13 p.m. Tuesday, July 29, 2008 at his home.
Born on January 10, 1927, in Whitley County, he was the son of Arleigh and Alice (Shoda) Davis.
For the majority of his life, he resided in Columbia City, except for 10 years that he lived in Sebring, Florida. He was married to Jean Davis.
A veteran of the United States Army, he worked as a machinist at Tokeim in Fort Wayne, where he retired after 30 years of service. His memberships included Eagles Lodge #1906 and VFW Post #5582, Columbia City.
Survivors include sons, Kent C. (Tricia Hively) Davis and Brent E. Davis of Syracuse; a daughter, Kitty Thompson of Indianapolis; and a brother, Glen Davis of Columbia City. In addition to his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by a daughter, Betty Marie Davis and sister, Betty Stayer.
To honor Mr. Davis's request, there will be no visitation or service. Memorials may be given in memory of Mr. Davis to VFW Post #5582, 415 E Chicago Street, Columbia City, IN 46725. Envelopes are also available at the funeral home.
Arrangements have been entrusted to DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral, 600 Countryside Drive, Columbia City, IN.
July 29, 2008
Barbara Joan Schnabel, 80
Barbara Joan Schnabel of Midlothian, Virginia, passed away on July 6, 2008 from a sudden illness.
She was born on August 22, 1927, in Columbia City , Indiana to the late Homer A. and Vera M. Schinbeckler.
She graduated from Columbia City High School in 1945 and St. Luke’s School of Nursing in Chicago , Illinois in 1949. She worked as a surgical and psychiatric nurse in Chicago .
In 1949, she married the late Herbert W. Schnabel and they moved to Alliance , Ohio in 1956. While living in Alliance , she acquired a devotion for the sport of golf, which continued until her death.
She also resided in Florence, Alabama, and Cottage Grove, Minnesota, before moving to Midlothian with her husband for retirement in 1993. She was a member of Brandermill Country Club and First English Lutheran Church in Richmond, Virginia.
Survivors include a daughter, Marybeth Langer of Oklahoma and a sister, Carole Schinbeckler of Columbia City. She was preceded in death by her husband and parents, sister, Maxine Schinbeckler, and twin brother, Keith “Pickle” Schinbeckler. A brother, Donald Schinbeckler, died after Barbara on July 16, 2008.
Funeral service is 4 p.m. Saturday, August 2, 2008 at DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home, 600 Countryside Drive, Columbia City, with Pastor Judy Follis of Hope Lutheran Church officiating. Burial will follow at Jefferson (Sandbank) Cemetery, Columbia City. Memorial bequests may be given in memory of Mrs. Schnabel to the Peabody Public Library. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.
To send family condolences or sign the guest register book, please visit www.demoneygrimes.com
Gerald L. Bucher, 86
Gerald L. Bucher, 86, a former resident of rural Churubusco in Allen County and a native of Silver Lake, died at 10:01 p. m. on Saturday, July 26, 2008, at Heritage Park in Fort Wayne. Although he had been in declining health for some time, he had only been seriously ill for the past two weeks. 
Mr. Bucher was born on November 21, 1921, at Silver Lake, a son of Harmon O. and Ethel F. (Landis) Bucher, and graduated from Burket High School. As a young man he served in the U. S. Army during World War II, and was married to Georgianna Tibbitts. The couple spent the early years of their marriage in the Akron-area, where he was engaged in farming, and was a truck driver for the Sunoco Oil Company.
In 1963, the couple moved to Allen County, and lived in rural Churubusco until moving into Fort Wayne in 2004. He had been employed as a truck driver for the Gladieux Oil Refinery in Fort Wayne, and retired from Essex in Fort Wayne after 18 years.
He was a member of the Ari Church of God, east of Churubusco, the Silver Creek Church of God near Silver Lake and was also a member of the Teamster’s Union. From 1996 to 2000, he served as senior vice commander of Huntertown Veteran’s of Foreign Wars and was commander of the post from 2000 to 2002. In his leisure time he enjoyed fishing, gardening, church activities, and most especially loved and enjoyed his family.
His first wife preceded him in death in 1968. On November 8, 1969, he was married to Mary M. (Wilson) Silverest. She survives in Fort Wayne.
Also surviving are his three sons Roger (Lynn) Bucher of Fort Wayne, Gary (Sue) Bucher of Auburn, and Dennis (Kim) Bucher of Churubusco; seven step-children Marsha (Jerry) Austermann of Lake Orion, Michigan, Carolyn Jo Silverest of Fort Wayne, Charles (Stella) Silverest of Forsyth, Missouri, Richard C. (Shelby) Silverest of Coats, North Carolina, Thomas C. (Joyce) Silverest of Fort Wayne, Jack L. (Deborah) Silverest of Troy, Illinois, and Curtis R. Silverest of Auburn; a sister Donna Belle (Richard) French of Akron; 37 grandchildren and 53 great-grandchildren.
In addition to his parents and first wife, he was preceded in death by three brothers Edward Bucher, Robert Bucher and Earl Bucher; a sister Mildred Clinker; and three step-daughters Ina May Silverest, Geraldine M. Lyons and Gloria Galante.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a. m. on Thursday, July 31, at the Silver Creek Church of God near Silver Lake with Pastors Carroll McNutt and Thomas Craig, officiating.
The family will receive friends at the Sheets & Childs Funeral Home in Churubusco on Wednesday from 2-4 and from 6-8 p. m., or at the church one hour prior to the service.
Interment with military graveside rites will be in the church cemetery.
The family requests that memorials be directed to the Ari Church of God or Huntertown Veteran’s of Foreign Wars.
Stanley O. Needham, Jr., 88
Stanley O. Needham, Jr., 88, of Fort Wayne, died at 8:54 a.m. Monday, July 28, 2008 at Towne House Health Center. 
He was born August 6, 1919, in Cincinnati, Ohio, a son of Stanley O. and Matilda (Horst) Needham. In 1925, his family moved to Detroit, Michigan, and in 1931 to Fort Wayne, where his father founded Needham’s Typewriter Company. He graduated from North Side High School and continued his education at Northwestern University.
On September 22, 1941, he was inducted into the United States Army, serving in the chemical warfare service during World War II. He was honorably discharged as a captain.
On November 19, 1942, he was united in marriage to Louva Smith of Columbia City. They have always made their home in Fort Wayne.
His entire working career was spent at Needham’s Business Machines. A second generation owner/operator, he retired in 2001.
A member of First Wayne Street United Methodist Church, he served as chairman of trustees and building council when the church was built in 1972 and also as a lay leader. He was also past president of the downtown Kiwanis Club. He was also involved with drama and theater at the Civic Theater and at the church. An avid reader, he enjoyed traveling, playing bridge and spending the summers at Oliver Lake with his grandchildren.
Surviving relatives include his wife, Louva; three children, Stanley O. (Carol) Needham III of Columbia City, Stacey (Randy) Jacobs of Billings, Montana, and Gregg S. (Judy) Needham of Mountain Home, Arkansas; six grandchildren, Meredith Jacobs, Amanda Mettler, Brent Jacobs, Eric Jacobs, Ashley Hargrove and Jessie Needham; seven great-grandchildren, Savannah Butler, Steele Jacobs, Luke Jacobs, Evan Hargrove, Annabelle Hargrove, Reed Hargrove and Johnathon Hargrove; and a sister, Peggy (George) Ellis of Cheshire, Connecticut.
The funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, July 31, 2008 at First Wayne Street United Methodist Church, 300 E. Wayne, Fort Wayne with one hour of visitation prior to the service. The burial will be at Lindenwood Cemetery. The visitation will also be from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at the Towne House Chapel, 2209 St. Joe Center Road, Fort Wayne.
For those who wish, memorials may be made to First Wayne Street United Methodist Church.
Arrangements are by Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City.
July 27, 2008
Mary Jane Sheets, 60
Mary Jane Sheets, 60, a resident of rural Columbia City, died at 11:15 p.m. Friday, July 25 at Hospice Home, Fort Wayne. 
She was born April 29, 1948, in Fort Wayne, a daughter of Frank and Mittie (King) Williamson. Her formative years were spent in Thorncreek Township, where she attended elementary school. She completed her schooling at Columbia City High School and received her GED in 1966.
On December 31, 1972, she was united in marriage to L. Wayne Sheets. They made their home in Washington Township.
In addition to being a homemaker, she was a member of Columbia City Congregation of Jehovah’s Witness.
She is survived by her husband, L. Wayne Sheets; two sons, David (Amber) Deckard and Chris (Sabrina) Deckard; a daughter, Jennifer (Doug) Laux all of Columbia City; a sister, D. Pauline Landis of South Whitley; and two brothers, Frank (Joyce) Williamson of Sturgis, Michigan, and Alan (Winnie) Williamson of Columbia City.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by two brothers, Robert and James Williamson, and a sister, Bonnie Myers.
A memorial service will be held a 2:00 pm, Saturday August 2 at the Kingdom Hall – Columbia City Congregation of Jehovah’s Witness, 500 N. Oak Street. Arrangements are by Smith and Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City.
Memorials may be made to Visiting Nurse and Hospice Home, Fort Wayne or Christian Congregation of Jehovah’s Witness.
Condolences may be left at www.smithandsonsfuneralhome.com
July 26, 2008
Richard Elmer Heath, 79
Richard Elmer Heath, age 79, of Columbia City, died Friday, July 25, 2008 at Parkview Whitley Hospital Columbia City.
Born in Belleville, Illinois, on January 7, 1929, he was the son of Adam L. and Rose (Miller) Heath. 
A former resident of Fort Wayne, he attended Elmhurst High School . He has resided at his current home in Columbia City (Tri-Lakes) since 1973.
He served in the United States Navy from 1947 to 1953 where he served his country during the Korean War.
In 1952 he married Florence Lahrman at Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Fort Wayne. He worked as an asbestos insulator with Local #41, and he was an active member of the Tri-lakes Lions Club serving several terms as president.
Survivors include his wife of 55 years, Florence W. Heath of Columbia City (Tri-Lakes); daughters, Patricia Colvin of Fort Wayne, and Eileen and Beatrice Heath both of Columbia City; a son, Richard Heath of Colon, Michigan; cousins, Sue Reppert and Tammy (Paul) Johnson; 17 grandchildren and 26 great-grandchildren.
Preceding him in death were his parents, a daughter, Bonnie R. Heath; great-granddaughter, Heaven R. Swick; brother, Clifford Heath and sister, Bonnie Eldridge.
Visitation is from 4-8 p.m. on Monday, July 28, 2008, at DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home, 600 Countryside Drive , ColumbiaCity with a Lions Club Memorial Service to take place at 7:30 p.m. Funeral service is at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, July 29, 2008 at the funeral home with Pastor David Mommens of St. John Lutheran Church officiating. Burial will be at Covington Memorial Gardens with the graveside military services performed by the Whitley County Korean War Veterans Honor Guard. Memorials may be given in Mr. Heath's memory to the Leader Dog Program to train seeing eye dogs for the blind. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.
To send family condolences or sign the guest register, please visit www.demoneygrimes.com.
July 24, 2008
Dora F. Holycross, 87
Dora F. Holycross, 87, of Fort Wayne, died at 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, July 23, 2008 at Parkview Hospital where she was admitted on Tuesday. 
She was born March 8, 1921 in Troy Township, Whitley County a daughter of Lyman M. and Florence Edna (Watson) Holycross. Her formative years were spent in Troy Township. She graduated from Larwill High School.
In the 1940s she moved to Fort Wayne. She was employed at Weatherhead for a couple years, retired in 1983 from General Electric with nearly 40 years of service and was a member of the Elex Club at GE.
A world traveler, her passion following her retirement was geneology. She also volunteered at the State Developmental Center and Parkview Hospital.
Surviving relatives include two sisters, Doris M. Krider of Columbia City and Jane Stuver of Fort Wayne and several nieces and nephews whom she enjoyed sharing activities.
Two brothers, Max Holycross and Keith Holycross, and a sister, Joyce Holycross, preceded her in death.
The funeral service will be held at 3 p.m. Sunday, July 27, 2008 at Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City with Rev. Jim Albarran officiating. The burial will be in Lakeview Cemetery, Larwill. The visitation will be from 2 to 3 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home.
For those who wish, memorials may be made to Fort Wayne Rescue Mission.
July 22, 2008
Frederic A. Earnhart, 74
Frederic A. Earnhart, age 74, a lifelong resident of Green Center Twp. Noble County, Indiana died early Monday July 21, 2008 in the Provina Sacred Heart Home in Avilla, Indiana. Mr. Earnhart had been in failing health for about three months and entered the nursing home one month ago.
Frederic was born March 16, 1934, in Kosciusko County, a son of the late Arby Nelson and Mary (Doke) Earnhart. The family moved from Kosciusko County to Green Center in 1936 where Frederic had lived since.
As a young man he graduated from Churubusco High School with the class of 1952 and entered the US Army in 1956, serving in the Korean War. There he was a sharpshooter and was awarded the good conduct medal. He retired from the Weese Heavy Equipment Co. in Fort Wayne as a mechanic.
His survivors include his brother James (Mary Jane) Earnhart of Albion, and his sisters, Martha Smith of Albion and Annamae Earnhart of Churubusco.
He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Gene and Dean Earnhart, who both died in 2006.
Funeral services will be held Thursday July 24, 2008, at 10:00 A.M. in the Sheets and Childs Funeral Home in Churubusco, with Pastor Nancy Furgusson officiating. Burial will follow in the Sparta Cemetery at Kimmell, Indiana. The family will receive friends in the funeral home on Wednesday from 3:00 until 8:00P.M.
For those who wish memorials may be directed to the donor’s choice.
July 21, 2008
Margaret Nusbaum, 75
Margaret Nusbaum, 75, passed away Friday, July 18, 2008 at Harborside of New Haven. She had been a member of Our Lady of Good Hope Catholic Church in Fort Wayne.
She is survived by her son Ronald (Cyndi) Nusbaum of Angola, a daughter, Sharon (Tim) Gillenwater, granddaughter Mary Gillenwater, a sister, Mary Agnes Johnson, and brothers James Robert and Francis “Butch” Clark.
She is preceded in death by her husband, Kenneth and brother Ralph.
A funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. on Tuesday at Covington Memorial Funeral Home, 8408 Covington Road, Fort Wayne, with calling there from 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
July 20, 2008
Betty L. Fosnaugh, 71
Betty L. Fosnaugh, 71, of rural Columbia City, died at 4:05 p.m. Saturday, July 19, 2008 at her home. She had been in failing health since her diagnosis with cancer in 1997.
She was born September 22, 1936, in Laud, a daughter of Verlin R. and Goldie (Lippencott) Grace. Her formative years were spent in Laud. She graduated from Jefferson Center High School.
On June 26, 1954, she was united in marriage to Charles J. Fosnaugh. They made their first home in Huntington. In 1956, they moved to their present home in Etna Troy Township.
She was employed at Fibre Form and retired from Larwill Products in 2000 with 11 years of service.
Surviving relatives include her husband, Charlie; three daughters, Barbara (Steven) Fosnaugh-Miller of Hoagland, Christine Vanlandingham and Cindy Little, both of Fort Wayne; six grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; a brother, Melvin Grace of Eustis, Florida; and a sister, Mary Reimer of Bippus.
She was preceded in death by a son, David Brian Fosnaugh and five brothers, Benjamin, Paul, Robert, Marion and Ervin.
The funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, July 23, 2008 at Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City with Rev. Gene Rohrer officiating. The burial will be in Adams Cemetery. The visitation will be from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday and after 9:30 a.m. Wednesday at the funeral home.
For those who wish, memorials may be made to Visiting Nurse Service & Hospice.
Richard Keith "Dick" Roberts, 81
Richard Keith “Dick” Roberts, 81, of Columbia City, died at 4:15 a.m. Saturday, July 19, 2008 at The Oaks Living Center where he had been a resident since June 11. 
He was born March 8, 1927 in Orlando, Florida a son of Tanceil L. “Joe” and Bernice (Jackson) Roberts. His formative years were spent in Liberty Center near Bluffton. He completed his education at Liberty Center High School.
On March 22, 1944 he enlisted in the United States Navy. Following his honorable discharge on October 19, 1951, he began working for the Florida Power Company. In 1953 he moved to Indiana and began working for Advertison Sign Company in Fort Wayne and later Dana Corporation from which he retired on April 1, 1989 with 23 years of service.
On December 31, 1954 he was united in marriage to Mildred June Noland. They made their home in Shipshewana, Ligonier and Churubusco before moving to Columbia City in August 1970.
Surviving relatives include his wife, June; three daughters, Linda Casey of Indianapolis, Roberta Connett of Fort Wayne and Dawn Kempe of Indianapolis; three granddaughters, Destiny, Marina and Rebecca; two great-grandchildren; and a brother, James L. Roberts of Bluffton.
The graveside funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. Wednesday, July 23, 2008 at Greenlawn Memorial Park, Fort Wayne with Rev. James Clifford officiating with burial immediately following.
There will be no public visitation.
July 16, 2008
Oathel S. Yant, 82
Oathel S. Yant, 82, a resident of Fort Wayne, died at 10:26 p. m. on Monday, July 14, 2008, at his residence following an extended illness. 
Mr. Yant was born on December 3, 1925 in Peru, a son of Charles S. and Lida Mae (Clark) Yant, and was a lifelong resident of Fort Wayne. As a young man he served in the U. S. Navy during World War II, and was married in Fort Wayne on May 20, 1944 to Helen J. Arnold.
In his early years he had been employed as a coal hauler, and was a retired truck driver for Container Corporation of America in Fort Wayne. Following his retirement he worked as a messenger for H&R Block in Fort Wayne, and also as a security guard at Indiana Tech.
He was a member of Peace United Church of Christ, and American Legion Post 82 in Fort Wayne.
The surviving relatives include the widow Helen; three daughters Patricia Rich, Frances Williams, and Gloria (Jessie) Moseley, all of Fort Wayne; a brother George (Lucille) Yant of Fort Myers, Florida; a sister Gertrude Johnson of Doniphan, Missouri; six grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a daughter Sara L. Mozingo; and by a son-in-law Robert Rich.
Funeral services with military rites will be held at 1 p. m. on Friday, July 18, 2008, at the Sheets & Childs Funeral Home in Churubusco with Chaplain Karen Kosberg, officiating.
The family will receive friends at the mortuary on Friday after 11 a. m. until the time of the service.
The family requests memorials be directed to Parkview Home Health & Hospice, 2270 Lake Ave., suite 200, Fort Wayne, IN 46805.
Ralph L. Palmer, 52
Ralph L. Palmer, 52, a resident of Columbia City, died at 5:55 p. m. on Sunday, July 13, 2008, at The Oaks in Columbia City. He had been in failing health for the past several months. 
Mr. Palmer was born on July 9, 1956 in Columbia City, a son of Ray Edward and Ilah M. (Warner) Palmer. He attended the Columbia City Opportunity Center, and was a lifelong resident of Whitley County.
He had been previously employed at Clementine’s Restaurant and at Taco Bell in Columbia City, and had last worked at Bob Evans in Columbia City. He was a member of the Churubusco Church of the Nazarene.
Ralph was always known as a good-natured prankster, and enjoyed hugs, and riding motorcycles. He had always been a “people person,” loved and enjoyed his family and friends, and was a great fan of country music and “Walker, Texas Ranger.”
The surviving relatives include his siblings Sharon (George) Waltenburg of Richmond, and Karl L. (Brenda) Palmer, James E. (Darlene) Palmer, Ruth (Kenneth) Hoffman, Rosemary (Bill) Kincaid, and Jane (Jack) Craig, all of Columbia City; a special friend Robin Elsner of Columbia City; and several nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother Fred W. Palmer; a niece Deborah S. Hoffman Hall; a great-niece Ashley Marie Weikart; and a great-nephew James Kenneth Hoffman.
Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a. m. on Thursday, July 17, 2008, at the Sheets & Childs Funeral Home in Churubusco with Pastors Sam Norris and Eddie Jones, officiating.
The family will receive friends at the mortuary on Wednesday from 2 to 8 p. m.
Interment will be in the South Park Cemetery Annex, Columbia Township.
For those who wish, memorials may be directed to the Churubusco Church of the Nazarene, 1000 W. Whitley Street, Churubusco, IN 46723; or the American Diabetes Association, 7363 E. 21st Street, Indianapolis, IN 46219.
Malcolm Hugh Trump, 85
Malcolm Hugh Trump, 85, died at 2:23 p.m. Friday, July 11 2008 at Regency Hospital, Sylvania, Ohio, after a long illness. 
He was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, the son of Cortez and Anne (Secrist) Trump. The family moved to Fort Wayne, then Union Township in Whitley County and then to the family farm in Richland Township.
He graduated from Larwill High School in 1940 and attended International Business College in Fort Wayne until entering the United States Army in 1942, as an artillery surveyor/forward observer. He served with General George Patton’s Third Army, XII Corps, in the 945th Field Artillery Battalion, and was awarded four battle stars for participation in four major campaigns, including the Battle of the Bulge. In December, 1945, he left the service with an Honorable Discharge.
Following the service, he worked for a time at International Harvester in Fort Wayne. In 1946, he was employed by The Farmers Loan & Trust Bank in Columbia City, where he remained until 1985, when he retired as vice president, head-of-trust. He enjoyed baseball, fishing with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren and watching Chicago Bears football.
On June 10, 1950, he married Lois M. Gregory, living in Richland Township until 1963, when the family moved to their farm in Etna-Troy Township. Malcolm was a 64-year member of American Legion Post 98 and a 58-year member of the local Masonic Lodge.
He is survived by his wife, three children: Charles Trump, Rebecca Dahms and Thomas (Rebecca) Trump; four grandchildren: Angela (Joe) Sheets, Travis (Jennifer) Dahms, Claire Trump and Adam Trump; 2 great-grandchildren: Tyler and Justin Sheets; a brother Hal (Roberta) Trump, all of Columbia City and a sister, Suzanne Heingartner, Fort Wayne.
He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother Ted, and two sisters, Joyce and Elizabeth Trump.
There will be no visitation or funeral service. A memorial service will be planned for a later date. Local arrangements are by Smith and Sons Funeral Home.
Memorials may be directed to the American Legion Post 98.
July 15, 2008
Gladys I. Wakeman, 75
Gladys I. Wakeman, 75, of Columbia City, died Monday, July 14, 2008, at Miller’s Merry Manor where she had been a resident since June 26. 
She was born September 10, 1932 in Noble County a daughter of James L. and Rosabell (Kugler) Guiff. Her formative years were spent in Noble County. She attended Churubusco schools graduating from Churubusco High School in 1950.
On December 27, 1952 she was united in marriage to Albert F. Wakeman. They made their home in Green Township, Noble County before moving to Columbia City in 1994. Mr. Wakeman died in 1994. 
Surviving relatives include her father, James Guiff of Churubusco and three children, Jeanette (Ted) Erne, Linda (Kim) Hyndman and David (Cindy) Wakeman, all of Columbia City; seven grandchildren; three great grandchildren and a brother, Gerald “Jerry” Guiff of Churubusco.
She was preceded in death by her husband; two sisters, Audrey Valjack and Linda Guiff and a brother, Harry Guiff. The funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, July 18, 2008 at Smith and Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City with Rev. George Reser, senior pastor of First Church of God officiating. Burial will be in the Christian Chapel Cemetery, Merriam. Visitation will be from 2 to 7 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home.
For those who wish, memorials may be made to Shriner’s Children’s Hospital or St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.
Condolences may be sent to www.smithandsonsfuneralhome.com
The funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, July 18, 2008 at Smith and Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City with Rev. George Reser, senior pastor of First Church of God officiating. Burial will be in the Christian Chapel Cemetery, Merriam. Visitation will be from 2 to 7 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home.
For those who wish, memorials may be made to Shriner’s Children’s Hospital or St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.
Condolences may be sent to www.smithandsonsfuneralhome.com
July 14, 2008
Doris M. Bark, 84
Doris M. Bark, 84, formerly of Ossian and Columbia City, died at 3:45 p.m. Saturday, July 12, 2008 at Peabody Home in North Manchester where she had been a resident since October 2006.
She was born August 16, 1923, in Brackenridge, Pennsylvania, a daughter of Frank Lester and Florence (Fleming) Jairy. Her formative years were spent in Brackenridge where she completed her education.
On August 16, 1941, she was united in marriage to Robert C. Bark. They lived throughout the United States while Bob served in the U.S. Army Air Corp. Following his discharge, they moved to Ossian in 1960. In July 1990 they moved to their home south of Columbia City in Stable Acres. Mr. Bark died December 2, 1999.
She was employed at Ossian Pharmacy for five years and Ossian Furniture for two years.
Surviving relatives include a daughter, Judy Kovacs of Columbia City; two granddaughters, Laura Fields of Palatine, Illinois, and Meg Hicks of Columbia City; four great-grandchildren, Rebecca Fields, Ashley Hicks, Jennifer Hicks and Seth Hicks.
In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by two brothers, Lester Jairy and Raymond Baughman and a sister, Audrey Baker.
A private family graveside service will be held at Oak Lawn Cemetery in Ossian.
For those who wish, memorials may be made to Peabody Foundation or Heartland Hospice.
Arrangements are being completed at Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City.
July 13, 2008
Owen F. Kistler, 84
Owen F. Kistler, 84, of Big Lake, Noble County, died at 3:20 a.m. Sunday, July 13, 2008, at his home. 
He was born April 22, 1924 in Whitley County, a son of Aaron “Bob” and Ethel (Patterson) Kistler. His formative years were spent in Larwill. He completed his education at Larwill Schools.
On July 29, 1941, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served in the Pacific Theater. He was honorably discharged in April 1947 and then spent four years in the U.S. Navy Reserves.
On June 26, 1948, he was united in marriage to Kathleen E. Fruchey. They made their home at Big Lake, Noble County.
He was employed the former Gripco, South Whitley, retiring in 1985 with 19 years of service.
His memberships included, American Legion Post 98, Tri-Lakes Overlanders Camper Club and Big Lake (Noble Twp) Fire Department.
Surviving relatives include his wife, Kathleen; one son, Michael A. (Tam) Kistler of Big Lake; one daughter, Marsha (Dwight) Wade of Goshen, five grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild.
He was preceded in death by his parents and three brothers, Lewis, Cletus and Kenny Kistler; six sisters, Ruth and Myrtle Kistler, Alma Ricketts, Martha Rindfusz, Coral Craig and Gertrude Abbott.
The funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday July 16th at Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City with Rev.Carldean Merrifield officiating. The burial will be in Stough Cemetery, Thorncreek Township. The visitation will be from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home.
For those who wish, memorials may be made to Parkview Home Health and Hospice.
Condolences may be sent to www.smithandsonsfuneralhome.com
July 12, 2008
Eugene "Gene" A. Ball, 85
Eugene "Gene" A. Ball, age 85, died Friday, July 11, 2008, at The Oaks, Columbia City. 
Born in Monroeville, Indiana, on May 15, 1923, he was the son of Charley "Cap" and Eda Bell (Murfield) Ball.
A native of Monroeville, he attended the Monroeville public school and he resided in his boyhood home for 35 years before moving to a farm he purchased in 1960. He farmed for 10 years and in 1970 he moved to his present home in Washington Township, Whitley County.
On July 30, 1955, he married Virginia "Ginnie" M. Smith at St. Peter's Catholic Church in Fort Wayne. In addition to farming, he also worked 20 years for Tool Die & Mold as a lathe, drill press and machine operator retiring in 1989. He was a member of St. Catherine's Catholic Church, Nix Settlement and he was a member of the Rosary Society. Survivors include his wife of 52 years, Virginia M. "Ginnie" Ball of Columbia City; son, Mark W. (Sherrie) Ball of Columbia City; granddaughter, Michelle (Shawn) Daniels of South Whitley; and two sisters, Rosetta Skinner of Manassas, Virginia, and Beatrice Daniels of Monroeville.
Preceding him in death were his parents, sister, Edith Littlejohn and brothers, Lloyd, James, Kenneth, Corless and Ray Ball. Visitation is Tuesday, July 15, 2008, from 2-4 p.m. & 6-8 p.m. at DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home, Columbia City, with the evening prayer vigil at 3:30 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial is Wednesday, July 16, 2008 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Catherine's Catholic Church, Nix Settlement with Fr. Kenneth Sarrazine and Fr. Phillip Widman concelebrating. Memorials may be given in Mr. Ball's memory for Masses in his memory or to Parkview Home Health and Hospice-Huntington.
Envelopes will be available at the funeral home. To send family condolences or sign the guest register, please visit www.demoneygrimes.com
John Allen Clifford, 52
John Allen Clifford, age 52, died while clearing storm debris at Columbia City High School on Thursday afternoon, July 10, 2008 in Columbia City. 
Born in Fort Wayne on April 3, 1956, he was the son of Paul Edward and Hildreth (Zinn) Clifford.
A lifetime resident of Columbia City (Union Township), he graduated from Columbia City Joint High School with the Class of 1974.
On April 28, 1979, he married Carla E. Hawn in Columbia City. Owner of John's Auto Correction for 32 years, he worked with outside grounds maintenance at Whitley County Consolidated Schools since October 2007.
For many years, he served as an honorary member and fire chief of the Union Township Volunteer Fire Department. For the past 15 years in his spare time, he enjoyed dirt track racing with New Breed Racing.
Survivors include his wife of 29 years, Carla Clifford of Columbia City; a son, Jacob A. Clifford of Columbia City; sisters, Debra (Anthony) Zickgraf of Columbia City, Rita (Dennis) Wolfe of Larwill; mother-in-law, Betty Hawn of Columbia City; sister-in-law, Debora Sheets of Columbia City; brother-in-law, Ronald Hawn of Fort Wayne; and several nieces and nephews.
Preceding him in death, were his parents and father-in-law, Carl E. Hawn.
Visitation is 2-8 p.m. on Monday, July 14, 2008 at DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home, 600 Countryside Park Drive, Columbia City. Funeral service is 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, July 15, 2008 at the funeral home with Pastor Jeff Boyles of Coesse United Methodist Church officiating.
Memorials may be given in Mr. Clifford's memory to the Clifford family for donations to the school athletic departments of Columbia City High School and Garrett High School. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.
To send family condolences or sign the guest register, please visit www.demoneygrimes.com
July 10, 2008
Lee Allen Knipstein, 61
Lee Allen Knipstein, age 61, of Fort Wayne passed away at 8:15 a.m. on Wednesday, July 9, 2008, at his home after a two year courageous battle with cancer. 
Born on July 11, 1946 in Decatur, he was the son of Otto and Louise (Bieberich) Knipstein.
A lifetime resident of Fort Wayne, he graduated with the Class of 1964 from Arcola High School, Arcola.
On July 28, 2001, he married Annette E. Fogarty in Fort Wayne.
As a farmer, he took great pride in working the Knipstein family farm and his own farm. A former 17-year employee of International Harvester, Fort Wayne, he retired in 2008 from Poly-Hi/Quadrant with 24 years of service. An active member of the National Tractor Pull Association, he was also a member of Suburban Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Fort Wayne .
Survivors include his wife, Annette E. Knipstein of Fort Wayne; 2 sons, Christopher Knipstein and Michael Knipstein, both of Fort Wayne; a brother, Leonard C.(Pearl K.) Knipstein of Fort Wayne; a sister, Darlene E. Stahlhut of Fort Wayne; nieces and nephews, Lowell Stahlhut, Kathy Perkins, Angie Harrell and Jodie Williams; and his beloved companion and dog, Hooch.
His parents and brother-in-law, Donald William Paul Stahlhut, preceded him in death.
Visitation is 2-8 p.m. Sunday, July 13, 2008, at DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home, Columbia City. Funeral service is 10:30 a.m. on Monday, July 14, 2008 at Suburban Bethlehem Lutheran Church, 6318 W California Road , Fort Wayne, with an hour of calling prior to service at the church. Pastor Jerry Nichols will officiate. Burial will follow at Hope Lutheran Cemetery in Coesse. Memorials may be given in Mr. Knipstein’s memory to Parkview Home Health & Hospice or Suburban Bethlehem Lutheran Church . Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.
To send family condolences or sign the guest register book, please visit www.demoneygrimes.com
July 09, 2008
Judy M. Loucks, 66
Judy M. Loucks, 66, passed away Friday, July 4, 2008, at her home in Fort Wayne.
Born in Fort Wayne, she was a deli clerk with Kroger, Elkhart, for three years and enjoyed crafting.
Survivors include husband, Gerald Loucks of Bunker Hill; daughters, Rose Marie, and Pamela; sister, Mary (Robert) Earnest of Sidney, OH; brother, Robert (Linda) Jeffries of S. Whitley; sisters, Deloris Patterson, Rebecca (Michael) Clouse, Evelyn Jeffries, and Gloria (Richard) Clary all of Fort Wayne. She was preceded in death by her parents, Perry Walker and Letha M. Penn Jeffries; and son, Jerry Jr.
Service is 2 p.m. Friday at D.O. McComb & Sons Lakeside Park Funeral Home, 1140 Lake Avenue with calling one hour prior, Pastor Dale Henderson officiating. Memorials to the family.
Clara L. Ramel, 79
Clara L. Ramel, age 79, of Columbia City, passed away at 8:08 p.m. on Monday, July 7, 2008 at Visiting Nurse & Hospice Home, Fort Wayne.
Born on March 16, 1929 in Fort Wayne , IN , she was the daughter of Charles Ernest and Clara L. (Schaper) Romine.
She completed her formal education in Bethlehem Lutheran Elementary School and Concordia High School where she graduated with the Class of 1947.
On June 23, 1951, she was united in marriage to Lloyd E. Ramel, a native of Fort Wayne, at Saint Paul 's Lutheran Church, Fort Wayne . In 1960, she and her husband moved their family to Washington Township, Whitley County, from Fort Wayne to take over the Ramel family farm. Prior to her marriage, she was employed in the offices of the Mayor of Fort Wayne and of the Fort Wayne City Utilities. After her marriage, she devoted her time to being a farm wife, mother and homemaker. Her memberships include the Jefferson Township TOPS Club.
Survivors include 5 daughters, Carol A. (Daniel) Guse of Fort Wayne, Jeanne M. Ramel of Columbia City , Joyce E. (William) Savio and Elizabeth A. (Alan) Arvola of both of Churubusco and Susan K. (Alan) VanHouten of Columbia City; 1 son, Lloyd C. (Elise) Ramel of Fort Wayne; and six grandchildren.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Lloyd E. Ramel who passed away on October 27, 1995, and a son, George Henry Ramel who passed away September 6, 1971.
Visitation with the family is 5:30-7 p.m. with memorial service following at 7 p.m. on Thursday, July 10, 2008 at DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home, Columbia City. Pastor Don Wisner of Aldersgate United Methodist Church, officiating.
To honor Mrs. Ramel’s memory and in lieu of flowers, memorial bequests may be given to the Whitley County Humane Society or Visiting Nurse & Hospice Home. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.
To send family condolences or sign the guest register book, please visit www.demoneygrimes.com
July 07, 2008
Omer M. Beck, 86
Omer M. Beck, 86, died Friday, July 3, 2008, at Northern Lakes Nursing Home in Angola.
Born in Hartford City, he lived in Fort Wayne most of his life.
He joined the Marines in 1942 during World War II, and was deployed to the South Pacific for 30 months. He was the first person to join the Marine Corp Reserves in Fort Wayne. He transferred from the Marine Corp to the Seabees in the late 1960's, retiring from the Seabees as a steel worker chief, in 1981. He also retired from Fruehauf Trailer as a welder after 38 years of service, in 1985.
He was a member of Calvary United Methodist Church.
Survivors include his daughter, Amy Beck of Fort Wayne; son, Mark (Joyce) Beck of Columbia City; sisters, Betty Sells and Rita Boyer, both of Garrett; brother, David Beck of Garrett; and grandchildren, Gregory and Steven Beck. He was preceded in death by his wife, Deloris; sisters, Omal, Opal, Olive and Nancy; and brothers, Walter and Richard. Service is 10:30 a.m. Tuesday at Calvary United Methodist Church, 6301 Winchester Road, with visitation 30 minutes prior at the church. Visitation also from 5 to 8 p.m. Monday at Klaehn, Fahl & Melton Funeral Home, Winchester Road Chapel. Burial in Covington Memorial Gardens. Memorials to Calvary United Methodist Church.
Edith A. Boyer, 101
Edith A. Boyer, 101, a former resident of South Whitley died at 2:22pm Friday, July 4, 2008 in the Miller’s Merry Manor in Columbia City.
She was born on July 18, 1906 near Fowler in Benton County, Indiana, a daughter of Albert I. and May B. Vanderipe Boyer. Her family moved to Whitley County in March 1910 and settled on a farm south of South Whitley and in October 1947, she moved with her parents to a home in South Whitley.
She graduated from the South Whitley High School in 1924. From 1928 to 1932, she worked as a clerk at the Henry Grocery Store in Luther. She began practical maternity nursing in 1936 and continued caring for many infants and children until 1962. Later she helped to care for elderly homebound patients.
A member of the Centerview Community Church, she did the weekly cleaning of the church for nine years.
Edith was never married.
The surviving relatives include a niece, Phyllis (Carl) Perry, Eaton Rapids, Michigan; Three great nephews; three great nieces and several great great nieces and nephews; two cousins, Mildred (Wilson) Keel, South Whitley and Lois (Sam) Gladding of Fort Wayne.
She was preceded in death by her parents, a sister, Gladys Shultz, brother-in-law Clarence Shultz and nephews Eldon and Max Shultz
The funeral service will be held at 12 Noon, Monday, July 7, 2008, in the Smith and Sons Miller Chapel, South Whitley with the Rev. Roy Blake and the Rev. Peter Greenhow, officiating. The visitation will be two hours before the service. The burial will be in the South Whitley Cemetery.
For those who wish, memorials may be made to the Centerview Community Church or the donors choice.
Edith Caroline Kneller, 92
Edith Caroline Kneller, 92, of Columbia City, passed away at 4:15 a.m. Saturday, July 5, 2008 at Miller’s Merry Manor Nursing Home.
She was born on September 22, 1915 in Lake Township, Allen County, the daughter of John William and Dora Ellen (Ulrey) McLaughlin.
Edith spent her childhood in Jefferson Township, Whitley County, where she graduated from Jefferson Center High School with the Class of 1933.
On April 20, 1935 she was united in marriage in Jefferson Township to George C. Kneller. In 1965, they moved to Thorncreek Township where she continued to live until she entered Oak Pointe Living Center in 2002. She was homemaker her entire lifetime and she and her husband George spent many winters in the Okeechobee, Florida, area during their retirement years.
Her memberships included Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church, Order of the Eastern Star’s Bethel Rebekah Lodge where she became a 70-year continuous member in June of 2008, Shrine Widow’s Club, Tabitha Group and the Theo Widow’s Club.
She was also a past District President of the Rebekah Lodges of Allen and Whitley County .
Survivors include her two sons, Stanley Kent (Shirley L.) Kneller and Larry (Carolyn) Lee Kneller both of Columbia City; five grandchildren, five step-grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren, 14 step-great-grandchildren, eight great-great-grandchildren and three step-great-great-grandchildren.
She is preceded in death by her parents, husband, George C. Kneller who passed away on March 24, 1978, a sister, Vera Frances Rupert Robbins, and a brother, John Thomas McLaughlin.
Visitation will be held from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Monday, July 7, 2008, at DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home, Inc., Columbia City. Funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, July 8, 2008, at the funeral home with Dr. C. James Cress of the Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church , Columbia City. Burial will follow at Eberhard Cemetery, Columbia City. Memorial gifts may be given in Mrs. Kneller’s memory to Grace Evangelical Church. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.
To send family condolences or sign the guest register book, please visit www.demoneygrimes.com
July 03, 2008
Richard C. "Dick" Erne, 82
Richard C. "Dick" Erne, age 82, of Columbia City passed away at 3:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 2, 2008 at his residence.
Born on August 2, 1925, in Columbia City, he was the son of William Ray Erne and Vivian E. (Gee) Erne. 
Mr. Erne was reared in Columbia City and attended Columbia City High School. He also attended Ivy Tech, Fort Wayne, for 2 years.
Mr. Erne resided in Columbia City until 1943 when he moved to Indianapolis, he then returned to reside in Columbia City in 1969.
On April 22, 1945, he married June M. (Ward) at Indianapolis. He worked 30 years with Szabo Food Service as food service director at several locations throughout Indiana. He then worked 13 years at Whitley County Memorial Hospital in Columbia City as food service director, retiring in 1990. He worked part-time for Passages, Inc., Carriage House Flowers and Whitley County Jail in the food service department.
He attended First Church of God, and was a 30 year member of Columbia City Kiwanis Club, where he served as president numerous times and served as past Lt. Governor of Land of Lakes Division of Kiwanis International. He also served as the supervisor for Whitley/Noble County Red Cross Disaster Services. He was a former staff member of Whitley County Emergency Management Agency and also was Charter President of Whiltey County Child Abuse Prevention Council and was a former board member. Mr. Erne was very instrumental in the creation of the Kid's Dreamland Playground and the revitalization of Morsches Park Pond, both in Columbia City. In 2001 Dick was voted "Citizen of the Year" by the Columbia City Chamber of Commerce.
Survivors include his 3 sons, Robin E. (Irene S. Welch) Erne, Oxford , Florida, Ted M. (Jeanette L.) Erne, Columbia City and Patrick D. (Dee A.) Erne, Wolcottville; two daughters, Cathy E. Erne of Columbia City and Mary Jo (Ronda Hartup) Schaaf, North Webster; 10 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren; two step-great-grandchildren; two brothers, James (Jo) Erne, Jeffersonville, Indiana, and Robert (Dale) Edington, Fort Wayne; and two sisters, Rene May Milborne, Eaton Rapids, Michigan, and Ruth Ellen (Charles) Pugh, Monongahela, Pennsylvania.
He is preceded in death by his parents, William Ray Erne and Vivian E. (Gee) Erne, his wife, June M. Erne, a son, Timothy W. Erne and a sister, Dorothy Mettler.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, July 5, 2008, from 2-7 p.m. at DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home, Columbia City. Funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday, July 6, 2008, at the funeral home with Chaplain Larry Rice, Jr. of Parkview Home Health and Hospice officiating. Burial will follow at Greenhill Cemetery, East Ellsworth Street, ColumbiaCity. Memorial bequest may be given in Mr. Erne's memory to Northeast Indiana Chapter of American Red Cross, Kiwanis International Foundation or Columbia City Parks and Recreational Department. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home. To send family condolences or sign the guest register book, please visit www.demoneygrimes.com.
Loyal "Doug" Douglas, 77
Loyal "Doug" Douglas, age 77, of Churubusco passed away after a battle with cancer at 9:38 a.m. on Wednesday, July 2, 2008 at his home. 
Born on July 5, 1930 in Fort Wayne, he was the son of Charles E. and Florence (Lopshire) Douglas.
He graduated with the Class of 1948 from Elmhurst High School, Fort Wayne. A Fort Wayne native, he has resided in Whitley County since 1981. On March 23, 1981, he married Joyce F. Snider in Las Vegas, Nevada.
After 29 years of service as a foreman, he retired from CMS Roofing, Fort Wayne. His memberships included the Eagles Lodge #1906, Columbia City.
Survivors include his wife of 27 years, Joyce F. Douglas of Churubusco; his 101-year-old mother, Florence Douglas of Ossian; children, Gregory (Teresa) Douglas of Bluffton, Scott (companion, Angie) Douglas of Columbia City, Jeff Douglas of Ossian and Julie Douglas of Fort Wayne; step-children, Roger (Judy) Hartman, Gary (Nancy) Hartman, Janet (Basle) Trimmer and Gail (Kay) Hartman all of Columbia City; 18 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren; sister, Donna Degler of Fort Wayne; brothers-in-law, Charles (Millie) Snider and Paul (Joann) Cox both of Columbia City; and several nieces.
In addition to his father, he was preceded in death by a sister, Betty Kemp.
To honor the request of Mr. Douglas, there will be no visitation. Graveside service is 11:00 a.m. Saturday, July 5, 2008, at Oak Grove Cemetery, 1970 E Keiser Road, Columbia City with Penny Mosher, Pastor of Congregational Care at First Church of God, officiating. Memorial bequests may be given in memory of Mr. Douglas to the Douglas Family. Envelopes will be available at the graveside and the funeral home. Arrangements have been entrusted to DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home, Columbia City. To send family condolences or sign the guest register book, please visit www.demoneygrimes.com