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October 28, 2008
Margaret E. Kolbert, 80
Margaret E. Kolbert, 80, Syracuse died at 8 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25, 2008, at Miller’s Merry Manor, Syracuse.
A daughter of Olen and Chloie (Hoover) LeCount, she was born in Kosciusko County. Survivors include her husband Arthur; a daughter, Becky K. Mangan of Columbia City; two sons, Eric and Doyle both of Syracuse; and two sisters, Jeanette Lee of Syracuse and Beverly McDonald of Cromwell.
Memorial services will be held on Saturday, Nov. 1 at 2 p.m. at Mishler-Eastlund Funeral Home, Harris Chapel, Syracuse. Interment will follow at Syracuse Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to The Alzheimer’s Association.
Evelyn E. Bierbaum, 90
Evelyn E. Bierbaum, 90, died at 11:15 a.m. Friday, Oct. 24, at The Oaks Nursing Home in Columbia City.
The daughter Benjamin and Mabel (Hapner) Keiser, she was born in Cadillac, Michigan, on April 12, 1928. She was a Columbia City resident.
The wife of Alfred Bierbaum, she was a member of the Dunfee Missionary Church.
She is survived by her husband, Alfred; two sons, Edward of Larwill and Lawrence of Arvada, Colorado; a daughter, Janis (Keith) Saggars of Columbia City; a sister, Helen Scheele of Columbia City; a brother, Earl (Barb) Keiser of Columbia City; six grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and one great- great-grandchild.
She was preceded in death by her parents.
A funeral services was held Tuesday, October 28, 2008, at 1 p.m. with the Reverend Dennis Rowe officiating. Interment followed at Lindenwood Cemetery, Fort Wayne.
Preferred memorials are the Dunfee Missionary Church or Heartland Home Healthcare and Hospice.
Keith H. Smith, 87
Keith H. Smith, 87, of 11 EMS B61 L Lane, Warsaw, Indiana, died on October 26, 2008, at 7:00 a.m. at Millers Merry Manor, Warsaw, Indiana. He was born on July 25, 1921, in Larwill, Indiana.
Keith was born to George Fredrick and Beatrice Juanita (Keisler) Smith. On October 31, 1942, he married Helen Eloise Tuttle in Paris, Texas.
He lived most of his adult life in Kosciusko County. After retiring from R.R. Donnelley in 1984, he spent the next 21 years wintering in Apache Junction, Arizona.
Before working for R.R. Donnelley, Keith worked as a truck driver, he worked in construction and also worked for the Kosciusko County Highway Department. He was active in Golden Vista Chapel, Apache Junction, Arizona for several years.
He also was a member of American Legion Post #253, North Webster. Keith served in the United States Army during World War II from 1942 to 1943.
He is survived by his wife, Helen Eloise Smith of Warsaw, a daughter; Marcia Kay (Steve) Randolph of Warsaw, three sons Phil Kent (Kim) Smith of Leesburg, Ronald C. (Toni) Smith of Indianapolis and Stanley R. Smith of Mesquite, Texas. He is also survived by eight grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren.
He is preceded in death by two brothers and three sisters.
Services will be held at American Legion Post #253, North Webster, on Saturday, November 1, 2008 at 12 p.m. with Chaplain Bob Jarboe officiating. Calling hours will be 10 a.m.-12 p.m. at the American Legion Post #253 on Saturday, November 1, 2008. Burial will be at Hillcrest Cemetery, Pierceton, Indiana at a later date.
McHatton-Sadler Funeral Chapel, Warsaw, Indiana is in charge of arrangements. Memorial contributions may be made to American Legion Post #253, S.R. 13 South, North Webster, Indiana 46555 or to Kosciusko Home Care and Hospice, 902 Provident Drive, Warsaw, Indiana 46580.
Harold G. “Hap” Anderson, 94
Harold G. “Hap” Anderson, 94, a resident of rural Churubusco in Allen County, died at 3:30 p. m. on Monday, October 27, 2008, at the North Ridge Village Nursing Home in Albion. He had been in failing health for some time, and been a patient there since August. 
Mr. Anderson was born on June 19, 1914, in Eel River Township, a son of Clarence and Emma (Crabill) Anderson. He was a lifelong resident of Allen County, and had lived at his present home northeast of Churubusco since 1950.
As a young man he served with the U. S. Army during World War II, and was married on April 5, 1941, to Genevieve “Ginny” Garrison.
Working as a general contractor for most of his adult life, he was a partner in Anderson-Bonar Construction for 20 years, retiring in 1977. He had also been engaged in farming.
He was a member of the Churubusco American Legion Post 157, and in his retirement years enjoyed collecting and repairing antiques and collecting antique tools.
The surviving relatives include the widow Genevieve “Ginny” Anderson; his children Glen “John” (Mid) Anderson of Churubusco, Judy Owen of Albion, and Harold “Junior” (Nancy) Anderson of Churubusco; ten grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren.
A daughter Julie Anderson preceded him in death on June 11, 1967. Also deceased are his brothers Ralph Anderson, Raymond Anderson, William Anderson, James Anderson and Robert Anderson; two sisters Marjorie Anderson and Lois Miller; and a son-in-law Chuck Owen.
Funeral services will be held at 10 a. m. Thursday at the Sheets & Childs Funeral Home in Churubusco with Rev. Terry L. Zolman, pastor of the Merriam Christian Chapel, officiating.
The family will receive friends at the mortuary on Wednesday from 2 to 8 p.m.
Interment with military graveside rites will be in the Eel River Cemetery, south of Churubusco.
For those who wish, memorials may be directed to the Churubusco Volunteer Fire Department or Whitley County EMS Medic 21, Churubusco.
Loren J. “Jake” Brumbaugh, 72
Loren J. “Jake” Brumbaugh, 72, widely-acquainted Noble County farmer and a resident of rural Albion, died at 3:23 p. m. on Monday, October 27, 2008, at the family residence in Green Township. He had been in declining health for the past year. 
Mr. Brumbaugh was born in Green Township on April 7, 1936, a son of R. Gerald and Beth E. (Cooley) Brumbaugh. He spent his formative years on the family farm in Noble County and graduated from Albion High School in 1954.
As a young man he served in the U. S. Army, and was married to Janet Roe of Ligonier on August 23, 1957, in Tacoma, Washington. The couple lived all of their married lives on their farm in Green Township, where he was engaged in farming all of his adult life. He had also worked as a driver for Helena Chemical in Kimmell for five years.
In addition to his agricultural endeavors, his life was marked by community service and memberships in several organizations. He was a member of the Albion American Legion Post, Noble County Farm Bureau, the Maine-Anjou Cattle Association, and had been active in 4-H in Noble County and throughout the region. He had served on the Green Township Advisory Board, had also served on the Noble County Co-Op Board of Directors, and attended the Columbia City Church of the Brethren.
Most importantly, he was a loving husband, son, dad, grandpa, and brother, and was a friend to many.
The surviving relatives include his wife Janet, to whom he was married for over 51 years; five sons Marty (Pam) Brumbaugh of Milford, Mike (Carla) Brumbaugh of Albion, Brent (Julie) Brumbaugh of Churubusco, David (Trina) Brumbaugh of LaOtto, and Jeff (Julie) Brumbaugh of Churubusco; his mother Beth E. Brumbaugh of Albion; a brother Ken (Sue) Brumbaugh of Albion; a sister Karen (Paul) Helmkamp of Fort Wayne; and thirteen grandchildren, including Kayla, Beau, Tim, Courtney, Katie, Teegan, Ashley, Haley, Ross, Remingtin, Redmin, Samantha, and Audrey.
He was preceded in death by his father, and by a granddaughter Ryliegh Gracelynn Brumbaugh.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a. m. Friday at the Sugar Grove Church of God, 5019 East 500 South-57, Churubusco, with Pastors Dennis Beckner and Tim Grable, officiating.
The family will receive friends at the Sheets & Childs Funeral Home in Churubusco on Thursday from 2 to 8 p. m., or at the church one hour prior to the service.
Interment with military graveside rites will be in the family plot at the Christian Chapel Cemetery, Merriam.
For those who wish, memorials may be directed to Parkview Home Health & Hospice, 2270 Lake Ave., suite 200, Fort Wayne, IN 46805; or to the family.
Robert L. Marker, 94
Robert L. Marker, 94, a resident of Naples, Florida, and formerly of Fishers and Churubusco, died at 6:54 p. m. on Saturday, October 25, 2008, at the Naples Community Hospital in Naples.
Mr. Marker was born on August 8, 1914, in Eel River Township, a son of Oscar B. and Hattie (Geiger) Marker. He spent his formative years in Churubusco, and as a young man assisted his father in caring for the Eel River Cemetery. He also served in the South Pacific during World War II with the U. S. Army.
He had been engaged in farming for a period and also had a 22-year career as the Indiana State Sales Manager for Moorman’s Manufacturing Company, retiring from there in 1977. Following his retirement he spent most of his years in Naples, which he called his “paradise.”
Bob was a member and past master of Churubusco Lodge 515 F&AM. He entered the lodge at the age of 21, and was the oldest past master until his death. He was also a member and past worthy patron of Churubusco Order of the Easter Star 136.
On December 18, 1941, he was married in Churubusco to Gladys Guillaume. She survives in Naples.
The other surviving relatives include two daughters Sandra Marker (Dick) Fountain of Naples, Florida, and Patty L. (Robin) Hunt of Noblesville; four grandchildren Cindy (Todd) Pershing and Claudine Whitaker, both of Franklin, Kara (Ben) Londgergan of Barrington, Illinois, and Kim (Jeff) DeNicolo of Chicago; and seven great-grandchildren including Katie Koozer, Lauren Pershing, Isaac Whitaker, Kieren Londergan, Aiden Londergan, Ella Londergan, and Mia DeNicolo.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother Leroy Marker; and by two sisters Mildred Diller and Hazel Gross.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a. m. Saturday, November 1, 2008, at the Sheets & Childs Funeral Home in Churubusco.
The family will receive friends at the mortuary on Friday from 4 to 7 p. m., or one hour prior to the service. Churubusco Lodge 515 F&AM will conduct memorial services at 7 p. m. Friday at the mortuary.
Interment with military graveside rites will be in the Eel River Cemetery, south of Churubusco.
For those who wish, memorials may be directed to the American Heart Association, 208 S. LaSalle Street, Chicago, IL 60604
Karen Sue Collar, 56
Karen Sue Collar, 56, passed away at 11:35 a.m. on Sunday, October 26, 2008, at Parkview Hospital, Fort Wayne.
Born on July 8, 1952, in Columbia City, she was the daughter of Roger W. and Beatrice Irene (Trimmer) Collar. 
She graduated with the Class of 1971 from Northside High School, Fort Wayne. She was currently attending Ivy Tech, Fort Wayne.
A lifetime resident of Fort Wayne, she was a former employee of Dana Corporation with 19 years of service. Survivors include a brother, Randal W. (Darlene) Collar of Columbia City; one aunt, Mildred Trimmer of Fort Wayne; niece, Melissa A. Collar of Dallas, Oregon; nephews, Ryan W. Collar of Syracuse and Lance Corporal Jonathon E. Collar, USMC of Camp Lejeune, North Carolina; great-nephew, Matthias Keene of Dallas, Oregon; numerous cousins from Fort Wayne, Columbia City, and Howell, Indiana, Russellville, Arkansas and Warsaw, Missouri, and numerous aunts and uncles.
In addition to her parents, Roger W. Collar and Beatrice I. Carmichael, she was preceded in death by her step-father, Harley E. Carmichael and step-mother, Marguerite E. Collar. Visitation with the family is from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. with a memorial service following at 7:00 p.m. on Friday, October 31, 2008 at DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home, Columbia City. Burial will be at 4:00 p.m. Saturday, November 1, 2008, at South Park Cemetery, Columbia City. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the funeral fund in care of DeMoney-Grimes Funeral Home. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Please visit www.demoneygrimes.com to send family condolences or sign the guest register.
Survivors include a brother, Randal W. (Darlene) Collar of Columbia City; one aunt, Mildred Trimmer of Fort Wayne; niece, Melissa A. Collar of Dallas, Oregon; nephews, Ryan W. Collar of Syracuse and Lance Corporal Jonathon E. Collar, USMC of Camp Lejeune, North Carolina; great-nephew, Matthias Keene of Dallas, Oregon; numerous cousins from Fort Wayne, Columbia City, and Howell, Indiana, Russellville, Arkansas and Warsaw, Missouri, and numerous aunts and uncles.
In addition to her parents, Roger W. Collar and Beatrice I. Carmichael, she was preceded in death by her step-father, Harley E. Carmichael and step-mother, Marguerite E. Collar. Visitation with the family is from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. with a memorial service following at 7:00 p.m. on Friday, October 31, 2008 at DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home, Columbia City. Burial will be at 4:00 p.m. Saturday, November 1, 2008, at South Park Cemetery, Columbia City. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the funeral fund in care of DeMoney-Grimes Funeral Home. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Please visit www.demoneygrimes.com to send family condolences or sign the guest register.
Elizabeth Rose Wall, 53
Elizabeth Rose Wall, 53, of Columbia City, died Monday morning, October 27, 2008, at her home. She had been in failing health for the past two years. 
She was born February 8, 1955, in Sullivan, Indiana, a daughter of Cisco R. and Jeanette I. (White) May. In 1964, her family moved to Columbia City from Sullivan. She completed her education at Columbia City Joint High School.
On June 7, 1980, she was united in marriage to Jerome M. Wall. They made their home in South Whitley before moving to Columbia City.
An advanced EMT for Whitley County EMS, she was employed at Miller’s Merry Manor and later Wal Mart.
Surviving relatives include her husband, Jerry; a daughter, Amanda (Jason) Esterline of South Whitley; a granddaughter, Holly Marie Esterline; a brother, Danny (Linda) May of Warsaw; and four sisters, Lois (Paul) Sheets of Columbia City, Linda (Jan) Carter of Columbia City, Alice (Larry) Crawford of South Whitley and Bonnie (John) Fitzpatrick of Warsaw.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a sister, Carol May.
The funeral service will be held at 8 p.m. Wednesday at Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City with Rev. J. Phillip Blake officiating. The visitation will be from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home.
For those who wish, memorials may be made to ALS Foundation or Muscular Dystrophy.
Richard Walter DeTurk, 87
Richard Walter DeTurk, 87, a resident of Grace Village, Winona Lake, died Sunday, October 26, 2008.
He was born May 30, 1921, in Fort Wayne, Indiana a son of Walter and Terzath (Alshouse) DeTurk. His formative years were spent in Fort Wayne where he completed his education.
In August 1942, he enlisted in the United States Army, serving in Alaska during World War II. He was honorably discharged November 3, 1945.
On June 16, 1948, he was united in marriage to Rosaline May Gunter. They made their home Wabash, Peru and later North Manchester, where they lived from 1980 until 2008.
He was employed at GenCorp in Wabash for 18 years.
Surviving relatives include his wife, Rosaline; a son, Paul (Rita) DeTurk of Columbia City; a daughter, Celesta Joyce DeTurk of New Mexico; three brothers, Clarence DeTurk of Florida, Lewis DeTurk of Peru and Ralph DeTurk of Wabash; and a sister, Hazel Reed of Wabash.
He was preceded in death by two brothers, Herman DeTurk and Guy DeTurk.
There will be no visitation or service.
For those who wish, memorials may be made to American Cancer Society.
Arrangements are being completed at Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City.
October 24, 2008
Dorothy E. Montgomery, 89
Dorothy E. Montgomery, 89, a former resident of Churubusco from 1971 to 1978, died Wednesday, October 22, 2008 at 9:45 p. m. at the Bethlehem Woods Nursing Home in Fort Wayne where she had been a patient for the past two and a half years. 
Dorothy was born December 14, 1918, in Evansville, a daughter of the late Rev. Fred S. and Cecil (Orrick) Johnson. As a young lady she graduated in 1963 from the Indianapolis School of Practical Nursing, graduating in the top 10 percent of her class. She served most of her nursing career in Haywood, Wisconsin.
She was united in marriage on December 20, 1936, in Indianapolis to Alfred Montgomery. They attended the Good News Baptist Church in Churubusco. She was an Indiana Women’s State Golf Champion in the 1950’s, and was active in bowling and golf leagues. Mr. Montgomery died in 1996.
She is survived by her daughters; Marilyn “Lyn” Montgomery and Barbara Montgomery both of Fort Wayne, and Phyllis Hobbs of Sandy, Utah; her sisters Frieda Dunkerson of Fortville, and Zelma Marshall of Barnes, Wisconsin; and a brother Fred Johnson of Lake City, Florida; eight grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandson.
In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents, and three brothers, Robert, Delmar, and Fredrick Johnson.
Funeral services will be held Monday October 27, 2008 at 1:00 p. m. at the Sheets & Childs Funeral Home in Churubusco with Pastor Hank Dunkerson officiating.
Burial will be in the Eel River Cemetery, south of Churubusco.
The family will receive friends in the funeral home on Monday from 11:00 a.m. until service time.
For those who wish memorials may be directed to the Visiting Nurse Service and Hospice Home or the American Diabetes Association. Envelopes will be available in the funeral home.
Verda J. Austin, 80
Verda J. Austin, 80, of South Whitley, died peacefully Wednesday, October 22, 2008, at Lutheran Hospital, Fort Wayne where she was admitted Tuesday morning.
She was born August 25, 1928, in Ada, Oklahoma a daughter of William and Minnie (Dykes) Mullinax. While spending her formative years in the Ada area, she graduated from Classen High School in Oklahoma City.
On March 30, 1945, she was united in marriage to Jack DeFoe Austin. They lived on a farm in Richland Township, Whitley County before moving into South Whitley a short time later. Mr. Austin died January 15, 1974.
She was employed at Whitley Products, W.J. Carey Construction, Dr. Park Huffman from 1959 until 1977 and then Dr. James Hanus until her retirement.
Surviving relatives include four children, Terry Austin of North Manchester, Jeanne Smith of Columbia City, Robert (Jennifer) Austin of Fort Wayne and Diane (Fred) Parkinson of Warsaw; 12 grandchildren; nine great grandchildren; a sister, Sylvia McGlamery of Midwest City, Oklahoma; and a sister-in-law, Marilee Fleck of Columbia City.
In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by three brothers, Harvey Mullinax, Beecher Mullinax and an infant; and a sister, Vada Mae Fox.
The funeral service is 2 p.m. Sunday at Smith & Sons Miller Chapel, South Whitley. Visitation is from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Saturday at the funeral home. The burial will be in South Whitley Cemetery.
For those who wish, memorials may be made to South Whitley Public Library.
October 23, 2008
Adelaide Caroline Turnpaugh
Adelaide Caroline Turnpaugh, infant stillborn daughter of Douglas Wayne and Cynthia Lyn (Mattingly) Turnpaugh passed away at 5:31 p.m. on Monday, October 20, 2008 at her home.
Survivors include her parents, 7 brothers and sisters, Douglas Clark, Lael Hoshana, Kenneth Grant, David Paul and Emanuel Josiah Turnpaugh of Columbia City, Julie Nichel (Dan) Olmstead of Goshen and Joe Chaning of Bardstown, Kentucky; paternal grandparents, Joe (Jeanne) Turnpaugh of Goshen; maternal grandfather, Joe Mattingly of Bardstown, Kentucky; and maternal grandmother, Cathy Mattingly of Bardstown, KY. She was preceded in death by a brother, Jacob Eli Turnpaugh, on December 10, 2003.
Graveside service is at 3:00 p.m. on Friday, October 24, 2008 at Thorn Cemetery, Ormas, with Pastor Tim Kumfer of Big Lake Church of God officiating. Arrangements have been entrusted to DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home, Columbia City.
To send family condolences or sign the guest register, please visit www.demoneygrimes.com
October 22, 2008
Helen D. Fichter, 76
Helen D. Fichter, 76, died Thursday, Oct. 16, 2008, at Renaissance Village, Fort Wayne.
Born in Pittsburgh, Pa., she retired from Bob Evans, in 2005.
Survivors include son, Brian Sheehan of Fort Wayne; daughters, Nancy Lee of New York, N.Y., Jacqueline Kelly of Indianapolis and Stacey Herron of Columbia City; eight grandchildren; one great-grandchild; brothers, Jack and Frank BelCastro, both of Pittsburgh, Pa.; and sisters, Marybell and Betty, both of Pittsburgh, Pa., and Rena of Tucson, Ariz.
A Celebration of Life service is 2 p.m. Saturday at D.O. McComb & Sons Pine Valley Park Funeral Home, 1320 E. Dupont Road.
Memorials to Cancer Services of Northeastern Indiana.
Stanton Lee Egolf, 39
Stanton Lee Egolf, 39, of Huntington passed away Friday October 17, 2008 at 2:05 p.m. at Regency Place, Fort Wayne. 
Stanton was born April 17, 1969, in Goshen, the son of Stanley E. and Barbara Ann (Wolfe) Egolf.
He graduated from Huntington North High School in 1987 and was employed with Pathfinder Services. He was a member of Church of Our Glorious King in Huntington.
He is survived by his parents Stanley and Barbara Egolf of Columbia City, two brothers, including Kevin Egolf of Huntington and Rusty Egolf and wife Diane of Chetek, Wisconsin, three nieces, including Lori Ann Egolf, Mariah Renae Egolf and Jennifer Ann Egolf, a nephew, Gavin Bickel, and maternal grandmother Josephine Wolfe of Douglas, Arizona.
He was preceded in death by maternal grandfather Norman Wolfe, paternal grandparents Cecil & Joyce Egolf, and two aunts, Peggy Black and Shirley Markley.
Memorial services will be held Saturday October 25 at 10:30 AM at Church of Our Glorious King, 404 Grayston Avenue, Huntington, with Father Rick Leone officiating. Preferred memorials are to Church of Our Glorious King c/o Deal-Rice Funeral Home, 338 E. Washington St., Huntington, IN 46750
Condolences may be left for the family at www.dealricefuneralhomes.com
October 21, 2008
Jeanette I. Loe, 88
Jeanette I. Loe, 88, of Columbia City, died at 10:25 a.m. Tuesday, October 21, 2008, at Peabody Retirement Community, North Manchester where she had been a resident since May 10, 2005. 
She was born February 10, 1920, in Sullivan, Indiana, a daughter of Olney and Martha (Walton) White. Here formative years were spent in Sullivan. She graduated from Sullivan High School.
On March 13, 1939, she was united in marriage to Cisco May. They made their home in Sullivan. Mr. May died March 2, 1955. In 1964 she moved to Columbia City.
On May 3, 1966, she was united in marriage to LeRoy J. Loe. They always made their home in Columbia City. Mr. Loe died April 12, 1973.
She was employed at Oelschlager’s from 1966 until 1969 then Miller’s Merry Manor until 1985.
A former member of Columbia City First Baptist Church, she was a member of V.F.W. Post #2919 Ladies Auxiliary.
Surviving relatives include a son, Danny (Linda) May of Warsaw; five daughters, Rose (Jerry) Wall of Columbia City, Bonnie (John) Fitzpatrick of Warsaw, Alice (Larry) Crawford of South Whitley, Linda (Jan) Carter of Columbia City and Lois (Paul) Sheets of Columbia City; 14 grandchildren; 31 great-grandchildren; and three great-great-grandchildren.
In addition to her husbands, she was preceded in death by a daughter, Carol May; two grandchildren; and eight brothers and sisters.
The funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, October 24, 2008 at Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City with Rev. J. Phillip Blake officiating. The burial will be in Nolt Cemetery. The visitation will be from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home.
For those who wish, memorials may be made to Peabody Memory Enhancement Unit.
Wayne C. Collinsworth, Sr., 62
Wayne C. Collinsworth, Sr., 62, of Wolf Lake, died at 10:08 Sunday, October 19, 2008 at his home. 
He was born September 25, 1946, in Luckey Hospital, Wolf Lake, the son of Robert C. and Rolena Mae (Oliver) Collinsworth. A resident of Wolf Lake most of his life, he completed his education at Wolf Lake High School.
He was employed for the past 23 years at Chain-o-Lakes State Park.
Surviving relatives include his children, Curt Collinsworth of Albion, Sherri Collinsworth Luke of Larwill, DeaDea (Cory) Gibson of Huntington, Nikki Collinsworth Johnson of Shelbyville, Brent Collinsworth of South Whitley, Mandy Collinsworth of Kentucky and Tracy Collinsworth of Albion; 15 grandchildren; three great grandchildren; and a sister, Patricia K. Gipson of Churubusco.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
The visitation will be from 1 to 3 and 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, October 22, 2008 at Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City.
A service of remembrance and carry-in meal will be held at 4 p.m. Sunday, October 26, 2008, at Smith & Sons Coach Room, 205 North Main Street, Columbia City.
For those who wish, memorials may be made to Chain-o-Lakes Wildlife Preserve.
Melissa Sue Pletcher, 27
Melissa Sue Pletcher, 27, of Churubusco, passed away at 11:34 a.m. Friday, October 17, 2008, at Lutheran Hospital of Indiana, Fort Wayne.
Born on July 21, 1981 in Warrensburg, Missouri, she was the daughter of Tony E. and Debra Sue (Smith) Coe. She spent most of her lifetime in Noble County, where she attended Central Noble High School. 
On June 21, 2003, she married Mark Thomas Pletcher in Albion and they have lived at their present home since March of 2008.
A wife and homemaker, she loved her three boys and family time, jigsaw puzzles, Precious Moments and talking on the phone.
Survivors include her husband, Mark Thomas Pletcher of Churubusco; 3 sons, Zachary Thomas, Anthony David and Andrew John Pletcher all of Churubusco; father, Tony E. (Beverly) Coe of South Whitley; brothers and sisters, Christina A. Miller of South Whitley, Carriea K. (Jon) Coe and Trent Eugene (Lisa) Coe both of Seymour, Indiana, Michael Miller of Florida, Elizabeth (Allen) Miller of Flippin, Arkansas, Christopher D. Coe of South Whitley, Tiffiany N. (Jamie) Detar of Fort Wayne and Jason A. Coe of South Whitley; grandparents, Duane (Shirley) Coe of Albion and David (Sandra) Smith of Columbia City; great-grandparents, John (Eleanor) Morgan of Merced, California; in-laws, John (Sharon) Pletcher of Columbia City; 2 aunts and uncles, Barbara (Barry) Craig of Albion, and Michelle (Ronald) Wilson of Albion; several aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her aunt, Penny Eppelmann and cousins, Christopher, David, Shane, and Jamie Eppelmann.
Visitation will be held from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Tuesday, October 21, 2008, at DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home, 600 Countryside Drive, Columbia City. Funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, October 22, 2008 at funeral home with Dr. C. James Cress officiating.
Memorial gifts may be given to the Pletcher family.
To send family condolences or sign the guest register book, please visit www.demoneygrimes.com
Ida S. Yahne, 80
Ida S. Yahne, 80, of Columbia City, passed away at 3:46 a.m. Sunday, October 19, 2008 at Parkview Whitley Hospital, Columbia City, after a brief illness.
She was born on November 14, 1927 in Fort Wayne, the daughter of Otto W. and Matilda (Bradtmueller) Witte. She lived in Fort Wayne where she attended the Trinity Lutheran Grade School and then attended New Haven High School. 
She married Fred Yahne on December 31, 1952, and retired in 1987 after 43 years service at General Electric, Fort Wayne. She moved to Loon Lake in 1972 and spent the remainder of her years there where she was an avid fisherman. She also loved to play bingo.
Her memberships included the Grace Lutheran Church, Columbia City, Pen-Eel Chapter of G.E. Elex and the Quarter Century Club of GE and Eagles Lodge #1906 Auxiliary, Columbia City.
She is survived by one brother, Oscar (Ruth) Witte, Ossian, and several nieces and nephews.
She is preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Fred Yahne, one sister Hilda Bruner and one nephew, Albert Bruner.
Visitation will be held on Tuesday, October 21, 2008 from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. at DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home, Columbia City. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, October 22, 2008 at the funeral home with Dr. C. James Cress of Grace Lutheran Church officiating. Interment will follow at Greenlawn Memorial Park Cemetery, Covington Road, Fort Wayne. Memorial gifts may be given in Mrs. Yahne’s memory to Grace 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.
Shirley A. Gran
Shirley A. Gran, of Columbia City, and Palmetto, Florida, joined the Lord on Thursday, October 16, 2008. 
Beloved wife of Gail Eugene "Gene" Gran. Devoted mother of daughters Linda (Charles) South of Fort Wayne and Lisa Tarr of Geneva, Indiana, and seven sons: Donald of Dayton, Ohio, James (Linda) of Fort Wayne , Jason (Suzie) of Corpus Christie, Texas, David (Kechia) of Atlanta, Georgia , Gerald (Glenda) of Indianapolis, Indiana, Christian of Peoria, Illinois, and Duane (Sarah) of Charlottesville, Virginia . Also survived by 21 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren.
Shirley served the Lord and her country in many ways throughout her life and spent the last ten years traveling the United States with her husband.
Service is at 1:00 p.m. Friday, October 24, 2008 at DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home, 600 Countryside Drive , Columbia City, with one hour of calling prior to service. Pastor Jack Hierholzer of Columbia City Church of Christ will officiate. Calling is from 4 to 8 p.m. Thursday, October 23, 2008 at the funeral home. Burial is at Covington Memorial Gardens , Fort Wayne. In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy may be made in Shirley's memory to Columbia City Church of Christ, 270 Frontage Road , Columbia City, IN 46725.
To send family condolences or sign the guest register book, please visit www.demoneygrimes.com
October 18, 2008
Susan Bredemeyer, 44
Susan Bredemeyer, 44, died Wednesday, Oct. 15, 2008, at Hospice Home, Fort Wayne.
Born in Fort Wayne, she was a Professor of Nursing with the University of St. Francis for 16 years. She graduated from Elmhurst High School in 1983 and Lutheran Hospital School of Nursing in 1986. She received a Bachelor of Science degree from Indiana Wesleyan and her Masters degree from Ball State University in 1993.
She loved her family, pediatric nursing and her many friends.
Survivors include her parents, Elmer T. and M. Louise Bredemeyer of Fort Wayne; brothers, Steve (Sue) Bredemeyer of Columbia City and Jim (Angela) Bredemeyer of Roanoke; and nieces and nephews, Charles, Graham, Brent, Aubrey, Anissa, and Alena.
Service is 10 a.m. Monday at The Chapel, 2505 W. Hamilton Road, with calling one hour prior. The Rev. Mark Clough officiating. Calling also from 2 to 8 p.m. Sunday at D.O. McComb & Sons Covington Knolls Funeral Home, 8325 Covington Road. Burial in Covington Memorial Gardens.
Memorials to University of St. Francis, The Chapel or Visiting Nurse & Hospice Home.
Ruth E. Kinney Heckaman, 95
Ruth E. (Kinney) Heckaman, age 95, died on Wednesday afternoon, October 15, 2008, at Columbia City, Indiana.
A resident of Oak Pointe apartments since 2000, she spent her adult life in German Township, Marshall County, Indiana, as a farm wife and mother. Ruth graduated from Nappanee High School, Class of 1929. Ruth and her husband John traveled extensively abroad, as well as having visited most of the 50 states. Although they traveled widely, they returned again and again to Lindy Lake in the northwoods of Wisconsin, a favorite place.
Ruth was a member of Marshall County Daughters of the American Revolution, grateful for the sacrifices her family made when they came to Pennsylvania from Switzerland in the 1700’s; a member of Marshall County Extension Homemakers, and a life-long Lutheran active in her congregational activities.
Ruth was born to W. William and Eunice (Eby) Kinney in Nappanee Indiana on December 26, 1912. She was married to John D. Heckaman who died in 2006 and was the mother of four children: Marshall (Sharon) Heckaman of Columbia City, Indiana and Dorothy (Dr. Henry) Anderson of Rockford, Illinois, who survive her and two other daughters, Jeanette (Jack) Chidister, and Berdine (Dr. Norman) Asper who predeceased her. She is further survived by ten grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren, and one great-great granddaughter.
Ruth was predeceased by 2 grandsons, and one great-granddaughter, as well as three sisters; Louella Rifner; Mildred Egolf and Mary Anderson and four brothers; Robert Kinney, Pat Kinney, Edgar Kinney and Richard Kinney.
Services were conducted Saturday by Rev. Diana Siegel at Johnson Danielson Funeral Home in Plymouth. Burial followed in the Bremen Cemetery.
Pallbearers will be her grandchildren. Memorials should be directed to Parkview Home Health and Hospice, 105 N. Madison Street, Columbia City, Indiana 46725
October 17, 2008
Albert L. Smith, 86
Albert L. Smith, 86, passed away at 4:35 a.m. on Thursday, October 16, 2008 at Renaissance Village, Fort Wayne.
Born on March 6, 1922 in Huntington, he was the son of Nathan E. and Neta (Stephans) Smith. 
Raised in Huntington County, he graduated with the Class of 1941 from Huntington High School . From 1942 to 1945, he proudly served his country in the United States Navy on board the USS Santa Fe receiving 2 stars for Philippine Liberations, a star for the Victory Medal and 14 stars for Asiatic Pacific and the Good Conduct Medal.
On December 20, 1945, he and Lois E. Walker were united in marriage by Reverend Graham Kleespie at Grace Lutheran Church in Columbia City.
A Columbia City resident since 1949, he and his wife moved to Renaissance Village, Fort Wayne, four years ago.
For 35 years, he was owner of Smith's Plumbing and Heating in Columbia City, retiring in 1995. He was an avid antique collector and he enjoyed woodworking. He attended First Church of God and he was a member of the American Legion Post #98 both of Columbia City.
Survivors include his wife of 62 years, Lois E. Smith of Fort Wayne; sons, Donald (Suzie) Smith of Columbia City and Thomas A. Smith of South Whitley; sister, Eileen (Homer) Loney of Fort Wayne; grandchildren, Jason (Kristi) Smith, Angela, Michelle and Matthew Smith, Amy (Trini) Broadnex; great-grandchildren, Bonnie Smith, Tony, Kendra and Ethan DeWitt and Ivan Smith.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a son, Richard G. "Dick" Smith in 1998, brothers, Francis and Claude Smith, and a sister, Crystal Burnsworth.
Visitation is Monday, October 20, 2008 from 4 to 8 p.m. at DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home, 600 Countryside Drive, Columbia City, IN. Funeral service is Tuesday, October 21, 2008 at 10 a.m. at the funeral home with Eddie P. Beagles, Certified Funeral Celebrant, officiating.
Burial will follow at Nolt Cemetery, Columbia City with Columbia City American Legion Post#98 presenting graveside military rites.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the American Cancer Society, Whitley County Relay for Life or Boystown. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.
To send family condolences or to sign the guest register book, please visit www.demoneygrimes.com
October 16, 2008
Savilla I. “Sally” Green, 94
Savilla I. “Sally” Green, 94, a resident of Eel River Township and widow of Chester R. Green, died at 9:40 p. m. on Wednesday, October 15, 2008, at Parkview North Hospital in Fort Wayne. She had been in declining health for some time, and was taken to the hospital earlier in the evening after collapsing unexpectedly at the home of her daughter.
Mrs. Green was born on April 13, 1914, in Eel River Township in Allen County, a daughter of Rodney and Hazel (Klinger) Johnson, and spent her formative years there. She received her elementary education at the Valentine School, and graduated from Huntertown High School in 1932.
On March 23, 1934, she was married to Chester R. Green in Columbia City. The couple lived on their same farm home all of their adult lives and she assisted her husband on the family farm.
She was a member of the Wesley Chapel Untied Methodist Church and its United Methodist Women, Allen County Farm Bureau and the Friendship Home Economics Club.
Mr. Green preceded her in death on January 26, 2004.
The surviving relatives include her daughter Gayle M. (Kyle) Marshall of Churubusco; a sister-in-law Ruth Cox of Fort Wayne; and several nieces and nephews.
In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by a brother Robert “Bill” Johnson.
Funeral services will be held at 10 a. m. Monday at the Sheets & Childs Funeral Home in Churubusco with Rev. Larry Smith, pastor of Wesley Chapel United Methodist Church, officiating.
The family will receive friends at the mortuary on Sunday from 2 to 6 p. m., or one hour prior to the service.
Interment will be in the Eel River Cemetery, Allen County.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be directed to the Wesley Chapel United Methodist Women.
Willard Theede - Pending
Willard Theede died at 4:06 p.m. on Saturday, October 11, 2008, at Adams Memorial Hospital in Decatur. Arrangements are pending at Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City.
John Edward Zumbrun, 73
John Edward Zumbrun, 73, of Kimmell, died at 1:23 a.m. Tuesday, October 14, 2008, at Lutheran Hospital, Fort Wayne.
He was born September 28, 1935, in Noble County, a son of Oras D. and Jesse (Smith) Zumbrun. His formative years were spent in Wolf Lake area. He graduated from Wolf Lake High School in 1953.
He met his wife, Miriam Swinger while working at Bethany Hospital in Chicago. They were united in marriage August 16, 1958. They made their home in the Wolf Lake area.
He was employed by J.I. Case in Churubusco and then over 30 years with Lyall Electric/Group Dekko, Kendallville, in injection mold design, engineering and management positions. He retired from B & J Specialties, Brimfield as the manager of engineering. He was also a life long farmer in the Wolf Lake area.
He was a member of Blue River Church of the Brethren and had served as a deacon. He was a member of Wolf Lake Volunteer Fire Department for a number of years.
Surviving relatives include his wife, Miriam; three children, Michael (Dawn) Zumbrun of Indianapolis, Marla (Sheldon) Bailey of Quincy, Illinois, and Melvin (Teresa) Zumbrun of Warren; 12 grandchildren; two brothers, James (Sherrill) Zumbrun of Albion and Thomas (Almeda) Zumbrun of Millersburg; one sister, Mary Lou Wolf of Peru.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a granddaughter, Hannah Bailey.
The funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Friday at Blue River Church of the Brethren, 3040E. 700 North, Columbia City, Rev. Craig Myers, church pastor officiating. The visitation will be from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday at Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City and one hour before the funeral. The burial will be in Blue River Cemetery, Columbia City.
For those who wish, memorials may be made to Blue River Church of the Brethren Mission Fund.
October 15, 2008
Alfred Lewis Cripe, 85
Alfred Lewis Cripe, 85, of Columbia City , passed away at 11:40 p.m. at Parkview Hospital , Fort Wayne.
Born on June 1, 1923 in Benton County, he was the son of Earnie and Bertha E. (Zolmon) Cripe.
An Indiana native, he relocated to Jackson, Michigan where he worked in a foundry. He also lived in Mulberry, Florida, for a period of time and he currently resided with his niece, Becky Ross, in Columbia City.
Survivors include a son, Alfred Cripe, Jr. of McCallister , Oklahoma ; a niece, Becky Ross of Columbia City ; sister, Lucille (Donald) Dodd of Constantine, Michigan; a brother, Delbert (Shirley) Cripe of Columbia City; and several nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by sisters, Mildred Brumbaugh, Opal Johnston, Elizabeth Boggs, Marguarite Striegel, Dorothy Dodd, Beverly Summers, Lily Mae Cripe and Mary Francis Cripe, brothers, Earnie, Eugene, Edgar, Robert and Charlie Cripe.
A graveside service is Monday, October 20, 2008, at 11:30 a.m. at Eel River Cemetery, Churubusco, with Pastor John Cummings of Bible Community Church officiating. Memorials may be given in memory of Mr. Cripe to Whitley County Korean War Veterans Honor Guard. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.
To send family condolences or sign the guest register book, please visit www.demoneygrimes.com
Justin Michael Wilcoxson, 19
Justin Michael Wilcoxson, 19, passed away at Parkview Hospital , Fort Wayne , on Sunday, October 12, 2008 from injuries he sustained in a motorcycle accident on Saturday. 
Born on December 13, 1988, in Columbia City, he was the son of Jennifer A. (Baker) Wilcoxson and Michael E. Wilcoxson.
A lifetime Whitley County resident, he attended the Whitley County Consolidated School system. He was employed as an operator with his father in the family business, Wilcoxson and Son Excavating, Inc. An avid racer, he was a member of the American Motorcycle Association.
Survivors include his father, Michael E. (Lisa Streib) Wilcoxson of Columbia City; mother, Jennifer A. (Shane Keller) Wilcoxson of Fort Wayne; grandfather, Donald Wilcoxson of Columbia City; grandmother & step-grandfather, Pat & Larry Clark of Michigan; grandmother, Jana Baker of Columbia City; great-grandparents, Gerald and Bonita Gamble of Columbia City; great-grandmothers, Margaret Wilcoxson and Rita Jackson both of Columbia City; uncles, John Baker and Jarod (Lori) Baker both of Columbia City; uncles and aunts, Steve and Carla Gebert of Larwill and Darian and Britte Stein of Columbia City; cousins, Jeremiah, Jessica and Jordan Geiger, Jennalin Gebert, Lyndsay, Kristen and Zack Baker, Ashlynd Pleus, Evelyn and Wyatt Stein; and several loving extended family members. He was preceded in death by his grandfather, John N. Baker, great-grandfather, Charles Wilcoxson and great-grandparents, John A. and Dorothy Baker.
Visitation is Friday, October 17, 2008, from 2 to 8 p.m. at DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home. Funeral service is Saturday, October 18, 2008, at 10 a.m. at the funeral home with Pastor Duane Ginder officiating. Burial will follow at St. Matthew's Cemetery, Columbia City.
Memorials may be given in Justin's memory to the Whitley County 4-H Ag Museum.
To send family condolences or sign the guest register book, please visit www.demoneygrimes.com
October 13, 2008
Phyllis A. Johnston, 73
Phyllis A. Johnston, 73, a former resident of Churubusco died Wednesday October 1, 2008, at her residence in Owens Cross Roads, Alabama. She had been ill for sometime and was under hospice care.
She was born March 13, 1935, in Anderson, a daughter of the late Samuel R. and Hazel F. (Carpenter) Peckinpaugh. She served as a nurse aid in Muncie from 1958 to 1976, then she drove semi truck from 1976 to 1989. She was united in marriage on July 25, 1952 to James Johnston who died July 3, 1997. She was then united in marriage on October 25, 2003 to Jon D. Howland who survives.
Also surviving are her children: James E. Johnston of Moonville, Indiana, Melinda K. Johnston of Warsaw, Ronald A. Johnston and Kimberly A. King both of Huntsville, Alabama. She is also survived by her brother, Michael A. (Carol) Peckinpaugh of Middletown, Indiana, and her sister Kay F. (Morris) Moore of Fort Wayne and several grandchildren.
Graveside services were held Thursday October 9, 2008 at 2 p.m. in the Christian Chapel Cemetery, Merriam, with Pastor George Cecil officiating. Sheets and Childs Funeral Home of Churubusco has been entrusted with services. There were no calling hours in the funeral home.
For those who wish memorials may be directed to your local Cancer or Heart Associations.
Beverly Ann Maley, 46
Beverly Ann Maley, 46, passed away at 1:35 p.m. Sunday, October 12, 2008 at her residence. 
Born on March 23, 1962 in Columbia City, she was the daughter of Mary Ann (Jacob) and Leo C. Maley, Jr.
She attended Carroll High School and the Chicago Public School System. A Whitley County resident for the majority of her lifetime, she was currently employed by EMT Company and she was a former employee of Dana, Columbia City, for 13 years. In her spare time, she enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren, fishing and mushroom hunting.
Survivors include her daughters, Mary Ann Maley and Rita Elswick both of Columbia City; sister, Karen Goodwin of Fort Wayne; brothers, Robert Maley of Churubusco and Leon "Short" Maley of South Whitley, IN; grandchildren, Thalia Maley and Adam Gaerte; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Her parents and brother, Patrick Maley, preceded her in death.
Visitation is Thursday, October 16, 2008, from 1 to 5 p.m. at DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home in Columbia City. The funeral service is at 5 p.m. immediately following visitation at the funeral home with Father Larry Kramer officiating.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be given to the Maley family.
To send family condolences or to sign the guest register, please visit www.demoneygrimes.com
Howard E. Plattner, 95
Howard E. Plattner, 95, a former resident of rural Fort Wayne, died at 7:05 p.m. Sunday, October 12, 2008 at The Peabody Retirement Community, North Manchester, where he had been a resident since 2000. 
He was born March 14, 1913, in Whitley County, a son of Clarence E. and Vada (Pence) Plattner. His formative years were spent in the South Whitley area.
On April 13, 1941, he was united in marriage to Gleda A. Stickler. They made their home in South Whitley. Mrs. Plattner died November 29, 2002.
In 1943, he joined the U.S. Army and served in the European Theater until his discharge in 1946. Upon his return they moved to Leesburg Road, Fort Wayne where they resided until 2000. He was employed by General Electric, Fort Wayne for 38 years and was a part-time carpenter.
Surviving relatives include one sister, Inez Sickafoose of South Whitley; a niece, Rebecca Curless; nephews Richard Plattner, Steve Sickafoose and Stanley Sickafoose.
In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by a brother, Kenneth Plattner and a sister, Marjorie Kneller.
The funeral service is Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. at Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City with Rev. Sue Babovec, Peabody Retirement Community Chaplin officiating. Visitation will be one hour before the service. The burial will be in South Park Annex Cemetery with the Korean War Veterans presenting military honors.
For those who wish, memorials may be made to Peabody Retirement Community.
Condolences may be left for the family at www.smithandsonsfuneralhome.com
Elsie Mae Ward, 94
Elsie Mae Ward, 94, a resident of Columbia City, died at 2:50 am Saturday, October 11, 2008, in the Miller’s Merry Manor. 
She was born on February 22, 1914, in Ligonier, a daughter of Charles W. and Violet Ivere Noe Heintzelman. At the age of two, her family moved to Larwill, where she spent her formative years and graduated from the Larwill High School.
In 1932, she was united marriage to Ward Hile Nelson and her second marriage in 1949 was to Henry Ward and they always made their home in Columbia City. Mr. Ward died in 1961.
Following her marriages, Mrs. Ward always made her home in Columbia City and was employed for several years at the Blue Bell, Weatherhead and the Fibre Form.
Her memberships included the First Baptist Church, Eagles Auxillary 1906, American Legion Post 98 Auxiliary and served as Senior Regent of the Women of the Moose.
The surviving relatives include a daughter, Barbara Jean Orr, Columbia City; six grandchildren, Phil Litherland, Jean Boylan, Charles Litherland, Lyle Orr, Sharon Markle and Carol Orr; 13 great-grandchildren; 9 great-great-grandchildren; a sister, Leila Bartick, Mentor, Ohio and a half brother, Charles Heintzelman Jr., Chandler, Arizona.
She was preceded in death by a son, Phillip Dean Nelson and a grand daughter, Patricia Ann Orr.
In keeping with the wishes of Mrs. Ward, there will be no visitation or service. The interment will be in the St. Matthew’s Cemetery on Friday, October 17, 2008.
For those who wish, memorials may be made to the American Diabetes Association or the American Arthritis Foundation.
