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April 27, 2009
Brandon Wade Minier, 35, of Columbia City passed away at 4:00 a.m. Sunday, April 26, 2009 at Lutheran Hospital of Indiana, Fort Wayne, due to injuries he sustained in a motorcycle accident on Leesburg Road in Allen County.
Born on May 23, 1973 in Columbia City, he was the son of Michael Ned and Deborah Kay (Ditmer) Minier.
A lifetime resident of Columbia City, except for his military service, he graduated from Columbia City High School with the Class of 1991. After graduation, he served as a missile silo technician in the United States Air Force from 1991 to 1995. He received an associate degree as a journeyman electrician.
On July 24, 1994, he married April Dawn Ward at the home of Terry and Jane Ward.
He worked for Pizza King as a student, Air Force Military, C & R Plating and he worked as an electrical apprentice for Union #305.
Currently the head maintenance technician, he worked at ChromaSource in Columbia City.
A member of the International Brotherhood of Electical Workers Local 305, he was also a second year apprentice instructor. He was a member of Crossover Ministries, Fort Wayne, where he served on the sound team.
Survivors include his wife, April D. Minier of Columbia City; a son, Devin Wade Minier at home; daughter, Sarah Elizabeth Minier at home; parents, Michael N. and Deborah K. Minier of Columbia City; brothers, Matt (Liane) Minier and Drew Minier all of Columbia City; a grandmother, Peggy Ditmer of Warsaw; father and mother-in-law, Terry (Jane) Ward of Columbia City; sisters-in-law, Marita (Brian) Link of St. Paul, Minnesota, Lisa (Jong) Valerio of San Francisco, California and Darice (Eric) Sheiss of Delphi, Indiana; 7 nieces and nephews.
His paternal grandparents, Ned and Jean Minier and his maternal grandfather, Fritz Ditmer preceded him in death.
Visitation is Wednesday, April 29, 2009 from 2-8 p.m. at DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home, 600 Countryside Drive, Columbia City. Funeral service is Thursday, April 30, 2009 at 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home with Dave Mosher officiating. Burial with graveside military honors will follow at Greenhill Cemetery, Columbia City. Memorials may be given in Brandon's memory to the Minier Children Educational Fund. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.
Hobert Winebrenner, 88
Hobert Winebrenner, 88, a resident of Merriam, passed away at 8:45 a. m. on Saturday, April 25, 2009, at Parkview Hospital in Fort Wayne after an extended illness. 
He was born on April 14, 1921, to the late Opal Ressler.
His pride and joy was his family. He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Marian (Poppele) Winebrenner; children Steve (Valerie) Winebrenner of Fulton, Maryland, and George (Jill) Winebrenner and Jane Ann (Bill) Stroup, both of Columbia City; grandchildren Kristina Tsuleff, Sarah Ball, Kara Kehoe, Joshua Stroup, Eric Winebrenner, and Kathleen Heiman; and six great-grandchildren.
Hobert retired from General Electric in Fort Wayne after 40 years of service. In his younger years, he was a mail carrier for USPS. He also worked for L. I. Griffith in construction.
He was a World War II Army veteran, and served as a sergeant with the 358th regiment, 90th infantry division. He served for three years overseas in the European theater including Normandy, Northern France, Ardennes, Rhineland, and Bastogre. He was honored with many medals including the purple heart with bronze cluster, silver star, five bronze stars, bronze arrowhead, French croix de guerre with Moselle-Saar Rivers Palm, and the POW medal. He authored the book “Bootprints” which chronicled his experiences in the war.
He was a member of the Albion American Legion Post 246, Ninetieth Division Association, and the General Electric Quarter Century Club.
The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a. m. Wednesday at St. Paul of the Cross Catholic Church, 315 S. Line St., ColumbiaCity, with Father Larry Kramer, the celebrant.
The family will receive friends from 2-4 and 6-8 p. m. Tuesday at the Sheets & Childs Funeral Home in Churubusco, or at the church one hour prior to the service. A Vigil service will be held at 4 p. m. Tuesday at the mortuary.
Burial with military graveside rites will be in the Christian Chapel Cemetery, Merriam.
For those who wish, memorials may be directed to St. Labre Indian School, Ashland, MT 59004
Margaret A. “Marge” Heckman, 64
Margaret A. “Marge” Heckman, 64, a resident of rural Albion, died at 6:00 p. m. on Thursday, April 23, 2009 at the family residence north of Wolf Lake. She had been in failing health for the past two years, and had been seriously ill for the past month. 
Mrs. Heckman was born in Salamanca, New York, on March 2, 1945, a daughter of Ray and Ann (Smith) Shroyer. She spent her formative years in Fort Wayne, and graduated from Central High School in 1963. She attended IPFW and graduated from Indiana Tech in 1979.
Throughout her adult life she had always worked in the nursing home field, and was the office manager at the former Oak Leaf Village in Ligonier for six years. After the nursing home changed ownership, she became the social services and admissions director of Avalon Village Nursing Home in Ligonier for a year, retiring due to ill health.
She was a member of Bear Lake Ministries, and was a past state nursing home activities director of the year. In her leisure time she enjoyed camping, singing in church, and most especially loved and cherished her family.
The surviving relatives include her husband James W. Heckman; her children Darla Strowmatt of Churubusco, Mike (Sonya) Keller of Columbia City, David (Pam) Keller of Morganton, N.C., and Margie (John) Schwartz of Lake Elsinore, Calif; her mother Ann Shroyer of Albion; a sister Sharon Schaefer of Avilla; 12 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her father on March 7, 1994.
Funeral services were held today, Monday, April 27, 2009, at the Sheets & Childs Funeral Home in Churubusco with Pastors Bill Cupp and Monte Harlan, officiating.
Interment was in the Christian Chapel Cemetery, Merriam.
For those who wish, memorials may be directed to Bear Lake Ministries Camp Fund.
Jack Smith, 88
Jack Smith, 88, a resident of Fort Wayne, died at 7:25 a. m. on Thursday, April 23, 2009, at Visiting Nurse & Hospice Home in Fort Wayne. He had been in failing health for some time and had entered the hospice home 13 days ago.
Mr. Smith was born in Ocone County, South Carolina on October 5, 1920, a son of James Curtis and Mattilda (Burdett) Smith. He spent his formative years in Spartanburg, South Carolina and as a young man served with the U. S. Army during World War II.
On October 12, 1943 he was married in Spartanburg to Mary D. Glander, and was employed as a quality control engineer at Dana Corporation in Fort Wayne for 40 years, retiring from there in 1985. He spent most of his adult life in this area, and following his retirement lived in San Antonio, Texas for a period.
He had previously attended the Good News Baptist Church in Churubusco and while living in San Antonio, attended the Liberty Baptist Church. He was a member of the Skyline Community Church in Fort Wayne.
Mrs. Smith preceded him in death on April 23, 2003.
The surviving relatives include a daughter Pamela (Kerry Bollinger) Targgart of Fort Wayne; two sons Dr. Steven A. (Lorraine) Smith of Tulsa, Oklahoma, and Douglas B. (Deborah) Smith of San Antonio, Texas; a brother Herbert Smith of Spartanburg, South Carolina; three sisters Louise Tipton of Dalton, Georgia, Colleen Bagwell of Chesnee, South Carolina, and Lillian Carter of Boiling Springs, South Carolina; nine grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren.
In addition to his parents and spouse, he was preceded in death by a son Kevin Michael Smith in 1965.
Funeral services were held Sunday, April 26, 2009, at the Sheets & Childs Funeral Home in Churubusco with Pastor Greg Patten of Skyline Community Church, officiating.
Interment with military graveside rites was in Lindenwood Cemetery in Fort Wayne.
April 25, 2009
Carmen Renee Barber, 38
Carmen Renee Barber, 38, of Fort Wayne, passed away at 12:56 a.m. Friday, April 24, 2009, at Lutheran Hospital of Indiana, Fort Wayne.
Born in Columbia City on July 6, 1970, she was the daughter of Wallace Reed and Sueann H. (Clingerman) Fowler. 
Raised in Columbia City, she graduated with the Class of 1988 from Columbia City Joint High School. For two years, she resided in North Carolina and for the past 10-12 years, she lived in Fort Wayne.
On August 28, 1999 she married Steven John Barber in Fort Wayne. She was formerly employed by Star Financial Bank, Van Buren Street, Columbia City, as a receptionist. Before becoming ill in 2004, she managed the office for Powerclean Industrial Service for her husband.
Survivors include her husband, Steven J. Barber of Fort Wayne; a daughter, Alysha Marie Holland of Fort Wayne; her mother, Sueann (Glen) Pollitt of Columbia City; her father, Wallace (Sandy) Fowler of Albion; a step-brother, Chad (Sarah) Pollitt of Fort Wayne; a step-sister, Brandie (Josh) Reister of Churubusco; her mother-in-law and father-in-law, Jeanne A. (Tom) Hesting-Rethlake of Columbia City; and a brother-in-law, Shawn A. (Gina) Barber of Columbia City.
She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Billie and Sadie Fowler, William and Mildred Clingerman and Lawrence and Waneta Hesting.
Visitation is Sunday, April 26, 2009 from 2-4 & 6-8 p.m. with a prayer service at 7:30 p.m. at DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home, 600 Countryside Drive, Columbia City, IN. Funeral mass is Monday, April 27, 2009 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Paul of the Cross Catholic Church, 315 S Line Street, Columbia City.
Memorials may be given in Carmen's memory to the donor's choice of charity. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.
Please visit www.demoneygrimes.com to send family condolences or to sign the guest register.
Cory G. Cochlin, 58
Cory G. Cochlin, 58, of Columbia City, passed away due to injuries he incurred in an industrial accident at Steel Dynamics (SDI) in Columbia City at 7:23 p.m. Thursday, April 23, 2009. Born on February 9, 1951 in Fort Wayne, he was the son of Clarence S. and Hazel L. (Mock) Cochlin. 
Raised in Whitley and Allen Counties, he graduated with the Class of 1969 from Central Catholic School, Fort Wayne. He completed his education graduating from the Fort Wayne Art Institute and attending Ivy Tech for several years.
On April 27, 1985, he married Marlane S. Bishop at St. Catherine's Catholic Church. He was a former resident of Fort Wayne, Canada and Elkhart and for the past 27 years, he resided in Columbia City . He was formerly employed by Dave Carey Construction, Warsaw, Dalton Foundry, Warsaw, for 11 years, KT Industries, Fort Wayne for 2 years, Essex Wire, Columbia City for 3 years. For the past 5 years, he worked for Columbia City Mill Services. His hobbies included collecting coins and rocks.
Survivors include his wife, Marlane S. Cochlin of Columbia City; a son, John C. Cochlin of Columbia City; a sister, M. Patricia (Faren Cheek) Coughlin of Jacksonville, Florida; and a nephew, Michael Kretschmer of Fort Wayne.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by brothers, Michael Henry Cochlin and Kevin Cochlin, and sister, Mary Catherine Cochlin.
Visitation is Tuesday, April 28, 2009 from 10:00 a.m. to 12 noon at DeMoney-Grimes Funeral Home, 600 Countryside Drive , Columbia City. Funeral mass is Tuesday, April 28, 2009 at 1:00 p.m. at St. Paul of the Cross Catholic Church, 315 S Line Street, Columbia City, with Father Larry Kramer officiating and Pastor John Cummings assisting. Committal service will follow at South Park Annex Cemetery, Columbia City. Please visit www.demoneygrimes.com to send family condolences or to sign the guest register.
April 22, 2009
Edward Theodore "Teddy" Hawk, 58
Edward Theodore "Teddy" Hawk, 58, of Columbia City, passed away at 7:05 a.m. April 22, 2009 at St. Joseph Medical Center, Fort Wayne. 
Born on September 27, 1950 in Fort Wayne, Allen County, he was the son of Theodore "Ted" M. and Luella M. (Francis) Hawk.
Raised in Allen County, IN and moving to Whitley County , IN in 1959, he graduated from Columbia City High School with the Class of 1970 and ITT, Fort Wayne , IN with the Class of 1972. He worked at Carpenter's Dairy Farm, Columbia City, Car-O-Matic Car Wash, Phillips 66 Southpoint in 1976, Northway Chyrsler-Plymouth, Coldwater Road, Fort Wayne, IN, Patton Electric Co., Bracken Ridge St., Fort Wayne, IN, Old Fort Supply, Engle Road, Fort Wayne, IN, Magnavox Corporation from 1983-1990 as a tester, Columbia City and he was also a newspaper delivery person for Fort Wayne Newspapers . His memberships include Columbia City United Methodist Church, former member of First Presbyterian Church, Fort Wayne, IN, Past Governor of Moose Lodge #1063, Son of American Legion, Post #98, Columbia City, Elk's Lodge, Columbia City, Audubon Society, Nature Conservancy, Sierra Club, Little People of America Association, Embassy Foundation and Civic Theater, both of Fort Wayne, where he was an actor.
He is survived by his mother, Luella M. Hawk of Columbia City; sisters, Electa Jane (Vern) Hawk-Hueske of Big Lake; Jo Ann (James) Espich of Port Charlotte, FL; Frances "Jackie" (Jerry) Long of Warsaw; 8 nieces; 8 nephews; 25 great-nephews and nieces.
He was preceded in death by his father, Theodore "Ted" M. Hawk and 1 nephew, William Stewart Long.
Visitation will be from 6-8 p.m. Thursday, April 23, 2009 and from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Friday, April 24, 2009 at DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home, 600 Countryside, Columbia City. Additionally, an Elks Service will be held at 7:30 p.m. on Friday.
Funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. at Columbia City United Methodist Church, 605 Forest Parkway, Columbia City on Saturday, April 25, 2009 with Reverend Paul Arnold and Associate Pastor Jean Ness both ministers of the church officiating. Burial will follow at Hope Lutheran Cemetery , Columbia City , IN. Memorial bequests may be given in memory of Mr. Hawk to Columbia City United Methodist Church or Little People of America Association. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Please visit www.demoneygrimes.com to send family condolences or sign the guest register book.
April 21, 2009
Robert L. Fry, 91
Robert L. Fry, 91, a resident of Churubusco, died at 1:52 a. m. on Monday, April 20, 2009, at Visiting Nurse & Hospice Home in Fort Wayne. He had been in failing health for the past three months. 
Mr. Fry was born in Fort Wayne on December 11, 1917, a son of James M. and Emilie (Fuelling) Fry. He spent his formative years in Lake Township in Allen County, and was married on April 5, 1941 in Churubusco to Evelyn L. Rapp. He lived all of his adult life in Churubusco, and served with the U. S. Army during World War II.
Employed at General Electric in Fort Wayne for 37 years, he retired from there in 1979. He was a member of the Churubusco United Methodist Church; was a 50-year member of both Churubusco Lodge 515 F&AM and Churubusco Order of the Eastern Star 136; was a member of the Scottish Rite, Valley of Fort Wayne; the General Electric Quarter Century Club, and was a life member of the Disabled American Veterans.
Mrs. Fry preceded him in death on March 28, 1992.
The surviving relatives include his daughters Rita (Jerry) Ransom of Churubusco and Lana (Ron) Rudolph of Rolling Meadows, Illinois; six grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren.
In addition to his parents and spouse, he was preceded in death by four brothers Darwin Fry, Russell Fry, Albert Fry, and James W. Fry; and by a great-grandson Scott Coffey.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a. m. on Thursday, April 23, in the Churubusco United Methodist Church with Pastor Corinne K. Boruff, officiating.
The family will receive friends at the Sheets & Childs Funeral Home in Churubusco on Wednesday from 2 to 8 p. m., or one hour prior to the service. Churubusco Lodge 515 F&AM will conduct memorial services at 8 p. m. Wednesday at the mortuary.
Interment with military graveside rites will be in the Riverview Cemetery, south of Churubusco.
The family requests that memorials be directed to the Masonic Learning Center, 431 W. Berry St., Fort Wayne, IN 46802 [for children’s dyslexia]
Virginia M. “Ginny” Haggenjos, 77
Virginia M. “Ginny” Haggenjos, 77, of Tri Lakes, died at 11:19 a.m. Sunday, April 19, 2009, at her home. She had been in failing health since 2000. 
She was born January 16, 1932, in Fort Wayne, Indiana a daughter of Charles and Gladys (Lynch) Happ. Her formative years were spent in Fort Wayne. She graduated from Central Catholic High School.
On July 7, 1951 she was united in marriage to George J. Haggenjos. They made their home in Fort Wayne, with the exception of five years in Erie, Pennsylvania, until 1981 when they moved to their home at Tri Lakes.
A member of St. Paul of the Cross Catholic Church, she was active in RCIA and established Remembering Church.
Surviving relatives include her husband, George; seven children, Donald J. (Sharon) Haggenjos of Indianapolis, Diane M. (Hector) Mercedes of Fort Wayne, Linda (Harper) Mann of Berkeley, California, David Haggenjos, Daniel Haggenjos, Andy (Michaelle) Haggenjos and Roger (Cynthia) Haggenjos, all of Fort Wayne; 20 grandchildren; four great grandchildren; two brothers, Richard Happ and Charles Happ, both of Ohio; and three sisters, Dorothy Shady of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Joan Giant and Rosie Freiburger, both of Fort Wayne.
She was preceded in death by her parents and a daughter, Rita M. Haggenjos.
The funeral mass will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday at St. Paul of the Cross Catholic Church, 315 S. Line Street, Columbia City with one hour of visitation at the church prior to the service. The entombment will be in the Catholic Cemetery, Fort Wayne. Visitation will also be from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City with a Prayer Service at 8:30 p.m. at the funeral home.
Preferred memorials are to Able Families or Parkview Home Health & Hospice.
Lily Anne Hile, one-day-old
Lily Anne Hile, one-day-old infant daughter, of Travis L. and Lindsay A. (Corner) Hile passed away Saturday, April 18, 2009 at Lutheran Hospital of Indiana, Fort Wayne.
Survivors include Travis and Lindsay Hile of Larwill; big brother, Jaxon Hile, age 2, of Larwill; grandparents, Jamie and Ronald Hile of Cromwell, Rick and Lisa Heintzelman of Ligonier, Mike and Britta Corner of Ligonier; great-grandfathers, William Mathias and Ronald H. Hile both of Columbia City; great-grandparents, Bob and Nancy Corner of Grove City, Pennsylvania, Joe and Loretta Bennett of Minford, Ohio, Bob and Karen Turgeon of Fort Wayne; great-great grandmother, Marge Mathias of Larwill; three aunts and two uncles.
She was preceded in death by great-grandmothers, Ada Belle Hile and Gracie Ellen Mathias and an aunt, Tanyan E. Hile.
Funeral service is Saturday, April 25, 2009 at 2:00 p.m. with 1 hour of calling prior to service at DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home, 600 Countryside Drive , Columbia City, IN. Pastor Michael Heinbaugh of Ligonier United Methodist Church will officiate. Burial will follow at Adams Cemetery, Columbia City . Memorials may be given in Lily’s memory to the Hile family. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.
Please visit www.demoneygrimes.com to send family condolences or to sign the guest register.
Madalyn Ann “Smat” Rex, 82
Madalyn Ann “Smat” Rex, 82, of Columbia City passed away at 4:25 p.m. Monday, April 20, 2009 at her home. 
Born on August 7, 1926 in Columbia City, she was the daughter of George William and Mary Catherine (Marker) Morrissey.
She graduated with the Class of 1944 from Columbia City High School. On January 6, 1945 she married Fred Rex in Columbia City. A lifetime Columbia City resident and homemaker, she was self-employed as a commercial cleaner for multiple businesses in Whitley County.
Survivors include her children, Peggy Rex of Columbia City and J.L. Rex of Fort Wayne; grandchildren, Ginger Rex (Ron DeLucca and his 2 sons) and Brian Rex both of Columbia City.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Fred Rex, and daughter, Sharon Fosnaugh, brothers, Charles “Bill” Morrissey and Richard Morrissey, and sisters, Betty Manns and Valetta A. Mantle.
Visitation is Thursday, April 23, 2009 from 2-4 & 6-8 p.m. at DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home, Columbia City. Funeral service is 1:00 p.m. with 1 hour of calling prior to service Friday, April 24, 2009 at the funeral home with Reverend Curtiss Johnson officiating. Burial will follow at Thorn Cemetery , Ormas, Noble County.
Memorials may be given in memory of Mrs. Rex to Cancer Services of Northeast Indiana with envelopes available at the funeral home.
Please visit www.demoneygrimes.com to send family condolences or to sign the guest register book.
Billie Romine, 85
Billie Romine, 85, of Columbia City, died at 2:30 p.m. Friday, April 17, 2009 at Parkview Hospital, Fort Wayne where he was admitted on Tuesday, April 14. 
He was born January 10, 1924 in Allen County, Indiana a son of Glen and Zella (Schwartz) Romine. He began his schooling in Auburn and later Leo, graduating from Spencerville High School.
During World War II, he served in the United States Army Signal Corp.
On March 27, 1948 he was united in marriage to Jessie Maxine Brown. They made their home in Dekalb County until 1997 when they moved to Columbia City.
He retired from carpentry work in 1986, working for Stanley Hartsel and Paul Souder.
His memberships include Big Lake Church of God and D.A.V.
Surviving relatives include his wife, Jessie Maxine; three daughters, Janet (Larry) Reed of Columbia City, Cheryl (Tim) Bracht of Huntertown and Sarah (John) Winters of Fort Wayne; seven grandchildren, Jeffrey Reed, Douglas Reed, Melisa Bracht-Wagner, Brent Bracht, Paul Bracht, Drake Winters and Drew Winters; six great-grandchildren; three sisters, Virginia Stout of Washington, Peggy Johnson of Nebraska and Lois Sutton of Indianapolis; and a step sister, Jean Culbertson of Auburn.
He was preceded in death by a grandson, Eric Reed; two brothers, Donald Romine and Mike Romine; and four sisters, Luella McCullough, Betty Graham, Mary Jo Haupert and Karla Romine.
The funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at Big Lake Church of God, 6955 N. S.R. 109, Columbia City with Pastor Tim Kumfer, church pastor, officiating. The visitation will be from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday at Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City and one hour before the service at the church on Wednesday.
The committal service will begin at 2:30 p.m. Wednesday at Woodlawn Cemetery, Auburn.
For those who wish, memorials may be made to Big Lake Church of God.
Lydia M. Vandersaul, 79
Lydia M. Vandersaul, 79, of Columbia City, passed away at 1:45 p.m. Sunday, April 19, 2009 at The Oaks, Columbia City. 
Born on July 27, 1929 in Brookfield , Cook County, Illinois, she was the daughter of Ervin and Edith Marie (Stulik) Jandera.
Raised in Grovertown, Indiana, she graduated with the Class of 1947 from Grovertown High School. At the age of 17, she moved to Fort Wayne where she worked as a claims secretary for American States Insurance Company, retiring after 12 years of service.
On May 7, 1988 she married William F. Vandersaul in Fort Wayne. In her spare time, she volunteered for Parkview Hospital, Fort Wayne, and she performed with the Fort Wayne Philharmonic Orchestra, were she played both the Oboe and English Horn.
Survivors include a sister, Alice Blanch (Arthur) Howard of Brooksville, Florida; brothers-in-law, Harold Fenker of Columbia City and Lyle (Jane) Kelsey of Incline, Nevada; sisters-in-law, Phyllis Vandersaul of Columbia City and Mary (Ed) Baumann of Kokomo; nephews, Roger (Becky) Fenker of Columbia City, Ryan (Nancy) Fenker of Columbia City, Gary (Judy) Fenker of Poway, California, Arthur (Wendy) Howard, Jr. of Nashville, Indiana, and Ryan Bartrom of Huntington; nieces, Sharon (Martin) Bartrom of Huntington, Rachel (Kendal) Burkholder of South Whitley, Maurita Baumann of Indianapolis, Katrina (Mike) Hoelsher of West Chester, Ohio, Sarah (Mike) Hemmerich of Kokomo and Jamie (Laney) Bartrom of Huntington. She was preceded in death by her parents and husband, William F. Vandersaul, who passed away December 27, 2007.
Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, April 22, 2009 at the funeral home with Reverend Curtiss Johnson officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Grove ( Compton ) Cemetery, Columbia City . Memorials may be given in memory of Mrs. Vandersaul to the Whitley County Youth for Christ. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Please visit www.demoneygrimes.com to send family condolences or sign the guest register book.
April 17, 2009
Benjamin Otto Grant, 84
Benjamin Otto Grant, 84, of Troy Cedar Lake, died Tuesday, April 14, 2009 at the VA Northern Indiana Hospital, Fort Wayne where he was admitted on April 6.
He was born October 28, 1924, in Whitley County, a son of Ezra and Annabelle (Keller) Grant. His formative years were spent in Whitley County and he was educated at Columbia City High School.
On June 4, 1943, he enlisted in the United States Marines, serving in the Asiatic Pacific area during World War II. He was honorably discharged as Corporal on December 16, 1945.
On October 19, 1946 he was united in marriage to Yvonna R. Henshaw. They made their home in Columbia City, living on North Elm Street for 32 years before moving to Troy Cedar Lake in 1990.
He employed by Daniel Brothers and was a peddler salesman for Marhoefer Meats of Muncie, retiring in 1972.
A member of V.F.W. Post #5582, he was also a former member of Grace Lutheran Church, Elks #1417, Eagles #1906 and American Legion Post #98.
Surviving relatives include his wife, Yvonna; three children, Pamela Swim of Fort Wayne, Kelly (Karen) Grant of South Whitley and Libby Dennison of Columbia City; seven grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren.
The last of seven children, he was preceded in death by three brothers, Keller, George and Joe; and three sisters, Elizabeth Cornelius, Betty Luckenbill and Annabelle Grant.
For those who wish, memorials may be made to Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.
Helen Angeline Snider, 80
Helen Angeline Snider, 80, of Columbia City , passed away at 11:05 a.m. Thursday, April 16, 2009 at her home. Born on March 1, 1929 in Huntertown, Allen County, she was the daughter of Ray and Gladys (Hippenhammer) Tonkel. 
She attended Huntertown High School. On December 21, 1946 she was united in marriage to Verlie Howard Snider in the Trinity Methodist Church , Fort Wayne. In the mid 1950s, she and her husband purchased a summer lake home at Tri-Lakes. The family cottage became their permanent home in the 1960s where they resided until the early 1980s. The family then moved to Jones Lake , Noble County, until seven years ago, when they moved to Big Lake.
A homemaker, she formerly owned and operated with her husband H & S Camper Sales, Tri-Lakes, and for seven years she taught for a private pre-school program in the Tri-Lakes Lion’s Club Building.
She was a member of Order of the Eastern Star, Huntertown and she was a former member of Tri-Lakes Overlander’s Camping Club.
Survivors include sons, Bruce (Kay) Snider and James A. (Diane) Snider both of Columbia City; daughter, Beverly K. (Allen) Miller of Columbia City; 12 grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild; sister, Annajane Hoot of Florida; brother, Richard (Annie) Tonkel of Leo.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 60 years, Verlie Snider on May 28, 2007, son, Carl W. Snider in 1972, great-grandchildren, Jason Allen Snider and Jordie Reynolds, brothers, Robert and Merle Tonkel, sisters, Virginia York, Bonnie Croy, and Erma Griffith.
Visitation is Sunday, April 19, 2009 from 2-5 & 6-9 p.m. at DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home in Columbia City. Funeral service is Monday, April 20, 2009 at 10 a.m. at the funeral home with Eddie Beagles and Sharon Brockhaus, Certified Funeral Celebrants, officiating. Burial will follow at Huntertown Cemetery, Huntertown. Memorials may be given in memory of Mrs. Snider to Parkview Whitley Home Health Care & Hospice. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.
Please visit www.demoneygrimes.com to send family condolences or to sign the guest register.
Mary Catherine Youngblood, 92
Mary Catherine Youngblood, 92, of Fort Wayne and formerly of Columbia City, passed away at 6:05 p.m. at Woodview Health Care, Fort Wayne. Born in Columbia City on July 13, 1916, she was the daughter of Harry and Myrtle E. (Hartman) Trimmer.
A graduate of Wolf Lake High School, she also graduated with a Degree in Education from Indiana Central College and a Masters in Education from St. Francis University. 
On August 10, 1943, she married C. Howard Youngblood in Lincolnville, Indiana.
A Columbia City resident for the majority of her lifetime with a passion for teaching, she taught at Merriam School for two years and for 39 years she taught in the Columbia City Schools with the majority of her teaching experience at Mary Raber Elementary School. In 1972, she earned the title of Outstanding Teacher of America.
Her memberships included Columbia City United Methodist Church, NEA, Indiana State Teachers Association, Whitley County Classroom Teachers Association, Delta Kappa Gamma Society International, Alpha Zeta Chapter of Delta Kappa Gamma and Little Turtle Council of International Reading Association, as well as the Town and Country Extension Homemakers club.
Survivors include her daughters, Becky (Alan) Youngblood-Henney of Fowler, Michigan, and Jean (Michael) Talbott of Fort Wayne; 2 grandchildren, Nathan and Emily Talbott both of Fort Wayne ; a sister, Marjorie Mangan of Angola.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, C. Howard Youngblood and a brother, Robert H. Trimmer.
Visitation is 11 a.m.-1 p.m. with the funeral service immediately following calling at 1 p.m. Saturday, April 18, 2009 at DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home in Columbia City. Associate Pastor Jean Ness of Columbia City United Methodist Church will officiate. Burial will follow at Christian Chapel Cemetery, Merriam, Noble County. Memorials may be given in memory of Mrs. Youngblood to Columbia City United Methodist Church or the Parkinson's Foundation. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.
Please visit www.demoneygrimes.com to send family condolences or sign the guest register.
April 14, 2009
Roger Wayne Collier, 62
Roger Wayne Collier, 62, of Pierceton, passed away at 8:05 a.m. Saturday, April 11, 2009, at Warsaw Meadows Nursing Home, Warsaw. 
Born on March 30, 1947, in Partridge, Kentucky, he was the son of Vincent L. and Pearl M. (Halcomb) Collier.
He graduated from Columbia City Joint High School. On November 1, 1991, he married Betty White in Warsaw. He retired from Explorer Van and owned his own bakery-pastry pantry in Decatur. He was a resident of Pierceton for 19 years prior to that he was a resident of Columbia City for the majority of his life.
Survivors include his wife, Betty Collier of Pierceton; daughter, Lanaya "Tina" (Jason) Jones of Columbia City; sons, Domion (Dawn) Collier of Fort Wayne; Charles Collier of Pierceton, IN; 6 brothers, Timothy (Margaret) R. Maggard of Whitesburg, Kentucky; Dewey Ed Collier of Beattyville, Kentucky; Paul (Martine) L. Maggard of Whitesburg, Kentucky; Wallace (Peggy) Collier of Columbia City; Harold Collier of Columbia City; Rick Collier of Columbia City; 3 sisters, Stacy (Tom Frankart) M. Dear of Columbia City; Mantie (Don) L. Furnas of Warsaw; Sandra L. Collier of Columbia City; and 6 grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents, a sister, Janice Marie Proffitt; and a brother, Daniel B. Maggard.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, April 16, 2009 from 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. at Demoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home in Columbia City. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, April 16, 2009 at the funeral home with Dr. David Biberstein of Pathway Community Church officiating. Burial will follow at Hillcrest Cemetery, Pierceton. Memorial gifts may be given in Mr. Collier's memory to the Collier Family. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.
Please visit www.demoneygrimes.com to send family condolences or sign the guest register book.
April 10, 2009
Charles William Brown, Jr
Charles William Brown, Jr., 89, of Columbia City, passed away at 8:20 a.m. at Miller's Merry Manor in Columbia City. 
Born on September 24, 1919, in Escambia County, Pensacola, Florida, he was the son of Dr. Charles W. and A. Geraldine (Treworgy) Brown.
In his early years, he lived on a farm in Coon Rapids, Iowa, and in Clarksville, Atlanta, Bryan and Beaumont, Texas. Charlie received his high school education at Bryan and Beaumont, Texas, graduating with the Class of 1935. He received a Bachelor of Science Degree in electrical and mechanical engineering from Texas A & M, College Station, Texas.
He was called to active duty in 1941, serving with the United States Army as a Captain in the Alaskan Defense Command also during his military service he spent time in New Jersey, California and Alaska. 
He married Margaret L. Hamilton on August 21, 1944, in Fort Richardson, Alaska.
He moved to Fort Wayne and lived there from 1946-1955 while working with General Electric Company as an engineer. He then transferred in 1955 to Schenectady, New York where he continued to live until moving to Columbia City in 1995, when he married Frances Gordon Stuckey on January 14, 1995, at the Columbia City United Methodist Church.
His memberships included Columbia City United Methodist Church, IEEE, St. Vincent de Paul Society of St. Andrew's Church, Fort Wayne, and of St. Madeleine Sophie Church, Schenectady, New York. Also the Fort Wayne Association of GE Engineers, Schenectady GE Engineers Association, Lynnwood Improvement Association, Helderberg Ski Club, GE Bowling League, Boy Scouts of America, Whtiley County Literacy Council where he tutored for ten years, Whitley County Historical Society where he served as treasurer, Habitat for Humanity, Passages, Interfaith Mission (The Lighthouse), Peabody Public Library Landscape Committee where he watered the trees. Survivors include his wife, Frances E. Brown of Columbia City; two sons, L. Thomas (Jillanne) Brown, Tuscon, Arizona, and Mark E. (Megan) Brown, Guilderland, New York; 2 daughters, Nancy L. Brown, Belmont, Massachusetts, and Marcia A. Scheu, Portland, Connecticut; 3 step-children, Cleis Anne Pipino of West Hartford, Connecticut, Gordon Edward Stuckey and Mark Kenton Stuckey of Fort Wayne; 7 grandchildren, 4 great- grandchildren, 6 step-grandchildren, and 6 step-great-grandchildren; a sister, Beverly J. Knox, Fort Worth, Texas.
He was preceded in death by his father, Charles W. Brown, his mother, A. Geraldine Brown, and his first wife, Margaret L. Brown in 1994.
Visitation is from 4-7:30 p.m. with a 7:30 p.m. prayer service on Saturday, April 11, 2009 at DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home. Pastor Paul Arnold of Columbia City United Methodist Church will officiate.
A second visitation is from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Wednesday, April 15, 2009 at Fredendall Funeral Home, 199 Main Street, Altamont, New York. Burial will follow at 12:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 15, 2009 at Prospect Hill Cemetery, Route Number 20, Guilderland, New York.
Memorials may be given in memory of Mr. Brown to Columbia City United Methodist Church, Whitley County Literacy Council or the Peabody Public Library.
Please visit www.demoneygrimes.com to send family condolences or sign the guest register book.
Edward H. Berwert, 92
Edward H. Berwert, 92, a lifelong resident of Columbia City, died 2:15 p.m. Thursday, April 9, 2009 at Miller’s Merry Manor where he had been a resident since March 21, 2005. 
He was born November 6, 1916, in Columbia City, a son of Carl and Edith (Long) Berwert. He graduated from Columbia City High School.
On December 24, 1938, he was united in marriage to Vivian VanHouten. They made their home on Jackson Street before moving to their home on Hilltop Drive in the mid 1950s. Mrs. Berwert died August 12, 1999.
He was employed at International Harvester for 11 months. From 1937 until his retirement in 1978, he was employed by the City of Columbia City, serving as superintendent of electric utilities for the last 20 years of his employment.
His memberships included First Baptist Church, Whitley County Historical Society, Eagles Lodge #1906, Columbia City Lodge #189 F. & A.M., Mizpah Shrine and Scottish Rite.
Surviving relatives include a son, Edward Michael (Linda) Berwert of South Bend; two daughters, Nancy Lee (Thomas) Meyers of Auburn, Washington, and Barbara Kae Walter of Powell, Tennessee; six grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and a great-great-granddaughter.
A Masonic Service will be held at 7 p.m. Tuesday at Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City. Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home.
Burial will be at a later date at Greenhill Cemetery.
For those who wish, memorials may be made to Whitley County Community Foundation.
Condolences may be left for the family at www.smithandsonsfuneralhome.com
Ada Louise Pankop, 80
Ada Louise Pankop, 80, a resident of Churubusco, died at 12:50 a. m. on Wednesday, April 8, 2009, at her home following an extended illness.
Mrs. Pankop was born in Auburn on September 25, 1928, a daughter of John Andrew and Mable Vianna (Shambaugh) Englert. She spent her formative years in DeKalb County and graduated from Auburn High School in 1945.
On June 23, 1946, she was married to Donald E. Pankop. He preceded her in death on January 12, 1955. On January 28, 1956, she married his brother, Dale R. Pankop. He preceded her in death on August 8, 2008.
She was a homemaker for most of her life, and had also worked at the former Bang’s Five and Dime Store in Churubusco for a period.
She spent all of her adult life in Churubusco, and had been active as a Girl Scout leader, and had been president of the Churubusco High School Band Boosters.
The surviving relatives include her children Pam (Harold) Hill of Churubusco, Marsha (Warren) Worman of Wichita, Kansas, Vi (William) Sommers of Fort Wayne, Bob Pankop of Churubusco, Becky Coffelt of Columbia City, and Judy (Matt) Burrell of Garrett; 17 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren.
In addition to her parents and two husbands, she was preceded in death by an infant brother John Andrew Englert, Jr; and by three grandchildren and one great-grandchild.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a. m. on Saturday, April 11, at the Sheets & Childs Funeral Home in Churubusco with Rev. Timothy Grable, pastor of Sugar Grove Church of God, officiating.
The family will receive friends at the mortuary on Friday from 2-4 and from 6-8 p. m., or one hour prior to the service.
Private family burial will be held in the Christian Chapel Cemetery, Merriam.
For those who wish, memorials may be directed to the Sugar Grove Church of God, 5019 East 500 South-57, Churubusco, IN 46723
Wilbur D. Rekeweg, 90
Wilbur D. Rekeweg, 90, a resident of High Lake in rural Albion, died Saturday, April 4, 2009, in the Parkview Whitley Hospital in Columbia City following an extended illness.
Wilbur was born October 25, 1918 in Woodburn, a son of the late Arthur and Tena (Gerbers) Rekeweg. He spent his formative years on the family farm and was united in marriage on August 4, 1945 in Fort Wayne to Margaret B. Stein. They moved to their present home in 1974.
He was engaged in farming all of his life. His hobby’s included playing league horse shoes in the Albion, Kimmel, and Columbia City areas and loved to fish. He was a member of Faith Lutheran Church in Churubusco.
His survivors include his wife of 63 years Margaret; his children Diann (Delart) Tewes of New Bloomfield, Missouri, Wayne (companion Danni Smith) Rekeweg of Fort Wayne, Paul (Nettie) Rekeweg of Woodburn, and Glen (Christine) Rekeweg of Coldwater, Michigan; two sisters Lucille Reinking of Leo and Lavon Koenemann of Woodburn. Also surviving are 11 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren.
In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his brother Raymond Rekeweg.
Funeral services were held Thursday at Faith Lutheran in Churubusco, with Pastor Lane Burgland officiating. Burial was in the Zion Lutheran Church in Woodburn.
For those who wish, memorials may be directed to the Faith Lutheran Church or to a church or organization of the donors choice.
April 09, 2009
Bradley E. Ehinger, Sr., 62
Bradley E. Ehinger, Sr., 62, passed away on Tuesday, April 7, 2009, in Fort Wayne.
Born in Fort Wayne, he worked as an over the road truck driver with Martin's Construction for 19 years, retiring in 1998. He was a U.S. Military veteran.
He is survived by his children, Rodney (Sheila) Ehinger of Churubusco, Cindy (Roger) Ehinger of Fort Wayne, Brad (Vicki) Ehinger Jr. of Ocala, Fla., and Shannon Ehinger of Bluffton; six grandchildren; and nieces, Tonya and Becky Armstead, both of Fort Wayne. He was preceded in death by his sister, Marie Armstead.
Service is 2 p.m. Saturday at D.O. McComb & Sons Lakeside Park Funeral Home, 1140 Lake Ave., with calling two hours prior. Burial in Riverview Cemetery, Allen County. Memorials may be made to the family. To sign the online guestbook, go to www.mccombandsons.com
April 08, 2009
Luanne Freshour, 62
Luanne Freshour, 62, of Columbia City, died at 9:15 a.m. Wednesday, April 8, 2009 at her home. She had been in failing health for many years. 
She was born December 27, 1946, in Allen County. She was a daughter of Simon and Betty (Gradeless) Luther. A lifelong resident of Whitley County, her formative years were spent in Jefferson Township. She graduated from Columbia City High School.
In the late 1960s, she moved into Columbia City. She was employed at Magnavox for 24 years.
Her memberships include Laud Christian Church and Eagles #1906 Auxiliary.
Surviving relatives include three children, Trudy Hively, Slade (Kari) Freshour and Sarah Freshour, all of Columbia City; five grandchildren, Stephanie Hartsock, Kelsey Pulver, Taylor Hartsock, Kole Freshour and Klaire Freshour; her parents, Simon & Betty Luther of Columbia City; a brother and a sister, Lex (Renee) Luther and Melinda (Andy) Lowe, all of Fort Wayne.
The funeral service will be held at 3 p.m. Saturday at Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City with Rev. James Clifford officiating. The burial will be in South Park Annex Cemetery. The visitation will be from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Friday at the funeral home.
For those who wish, memorials may be made to American Heart Association.
Condolences may be sent to www.smithandsonsfuneralhome.com
Nicholas "Nick" Jay Krider, 57
Nicholas "Nick" Jay Krider, 57, of Albion, passed away at 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, April 7, 2009 at his residence. He had been in failing health for the past several months. 
Born on May 6, 1951 in Columbia City, he was the son of Toby J. and Doris May (Holycross) Krider.
He has lived his entire lifetime in Whitley-Noble County areas and has resided at his present home in Albion for the past 20-30 years. He graduated from Columbia City High School with the Class of 1969 and attended Diesel Mechanic School.
On October 26, 1974, he married Marjorie Christine Hearld at Grace Lutheran Church, Columbia City, IN. Nick was a former employee of Thomson Chevrolet, Columbia City, and currently employed as a set up man for Dexter Axle, Albion. His hobbies included woodworking and playing darts.
Survivors include his wife, Marjorie Christine Krider of Albion ; a son, Michael C. "Butch" (Ashley E.) Krider of Albion; daughter, Nikki J. Stocksdale of Albion; mother, Doris May Krider of Columbia City; 7 brothers and sisters, Stanley (Mary) Krider of Dublin, Ohio, Carolyn Schrader of Columbia City, Jerry (Ann) Krider of Columbia City, Mary Smith of Columbia City, Randall L. (Pepper) Krider of Columbia City, Cheryl Krider of Fort Wayne and Wanda (Jim) Albarran of Valparaiso; in-laws, Bob and Kay Hearld of Columbia City; several nieces & nephews and 7 grandchildren, including Kaylee, Tristin, Alex, Kylie and Colton Stocksdale, Skyler and Case Krider.
He was preceded in death by his father, Toby J. Krider and a brother, David Krider.
Visitation is 4-8 p.m. Friday, April 10, 2009 at DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home in Columbia City. Funeral service is at 1 p.m. on Saturday, April 11, 2009 at the funeral home with Pastor Carroll McNutt, retired Church of God minister, and Pastor Sherry Long of Huntertown United Methodist Church officiating. Burial will follow at Adams Cemetery, rural Columbia City. Memorials may be given in memory of Mr. Krider to the family. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.
Please visit www.demoneygrimes.com to send family condolences or sign the guest register book.
Harry James "Jim" Hinen, Jr., 57
Harry James "Jim" Hinen, Jr., 57, of Roanoke, passed away at 6:18 p.m. Monday, April 6, 2009 at Lutheran Hospital in Fort Wayne. 
Born on May 12, 1951, in Fort Wayne, he was the son of Harry J., Sr. and Donna B. (Sheets) Hinen.
A graduate of Columbia City Joint High School with the Class of 1969, he attended GE Apprentice School for tool and die making.
A resident of Roanoke since 1977, he was employed by Dana Corporation as a tool maker retiring in January 2008. He was a member of Dunfee Missionary Church. In his spare time, he enjoyed playing golf.
Survivors include his children, William (Sanju) Hinen serving in the Indiana Air National Guard in Kuwait, Nichole (Justin) Eckerley of Fort Wayne, Jaimie (Pete) Bauer of Columbia City and Amanda (Steven) Wood of Columbia City; mother, Donna B. Hinen of North Fort Myers, Florida; brothers, Joe (Deb) Hinen of Fort Wayne and Rick Hinen of Tennessee; sisters, Kathy Pippin of Tennessee and Jackie (David) McKee of Fort Wayne; 9 grandchildren.
His father, Harry J. Hinen, Sr. and two sisters, Tammy Hinen and Connie Gordon preceded him in death.
Visitation is Friday, April 10, 2009 from 4-8 p.m. at DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home in Columbia City. Funeral service is Saturday, April 11, 2009 at 10 a.m. at the funeral home with Pastor Dennie Rowe of Dunfee Missionary Church officiating. Entombment will follow at Highland Park Cemetery, Fort Wayne. Memorials may be given in memory of Mr. Hinen to Dunfee Missionary Church Building Fund. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.
Please visit www.demoneygrimes.com to send family condolences or sign the guest register book.
Charley Duty, 68
Charley Duty, 68, of Pierceton , passed away at 11:24 p.m. Sunday, April 5, 2009 at his residence. He had been in failing health for the past few months. 
Born on May 5, 1940, in Van Lear , Kentucky, he was the son of Russell and Georgene (Adams) Duty.
As a young boy, he grew up and attended school in Kentucky. At the age of 16, he moved to Indiana. On February 6, 1989, he married Brenda Gaile Collier in Paintsville, Kentucky. For the past 28 years, he has lived at his present home in Pierceton.
He was a retired machinist for Zimmer, Inc., Warsaw, where he served more than 20 years.
Survivors include his wife Brenda Gaile Duty, Pierceton; 6 children, Troy Duty, Warsaw, Georgina (Paul)Taber, Paducah, Kentucky, Tammie (Tom) Davis, Warsaw, Roy (Deb) Fields, Pierceton, Charles (Kim) Newman, Goshen, and Jessica Fields, Pierceton; 6 grandchildren; 5 brothers and sisters, Larry (Nancy) Duty, Van Lear, Kentucky, Tom Duty, Paintsville, Kentucky, Jack (Sue) Duty, Blacksburg, Virginia, Marie (Stoney) Rowland, Stanton, Kentucky, and Judy Ann (Earl) Ward, Sr., of Claypool.
He is preceded in death by his parents and 6 brothers and sisters, including Arville Duty, Russell Duty, III, Ted Duty, Don Duty, Virgie Duty and Virgil Duty.
Visitation is 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, April 8, 2009 at DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home in Columbia City. Funeral service will be held at 1 p.m. on Thursday, April 9, 2009 at the funeral home with DeMoney-Grimes Certified Funeral Celebrants, Eddie P. Beagles and Sharon Brockhaus. Burial will follow at Hillcrest Cemetery , Pierceton.
Please visit www.demoneygrimes.com to send family condolences or sign the guest register book
April 06, 2009
Donna V. McCoy, 78
Donna V. McCoy, 78, of rural Columbia City, died Saturday, April 4, 2009. 
She was born July 21, 1930 in Thorncreek Township, a daughter of Albion Francis and Mabel I. (Traster) Burns. Her formative years were spent in Thorncreek Township. She completed her education at Columbia City High School. On April 5, 1947 she was united in marriage to Robert L. McCoy. They made their first home in Columbia City. In 1957, they moved to their home east of Columbia City.
She served as secretary/treasurer of R.L. McCoy, Inc. of which they established the Heavy Construction Company in 1961. Her memberships included St. Paul of the Cross Catholic Church.
Surviving relatives include her husband, Bob; three children, Michael (Sandi) McCoy, Marcie (Chuck) Bayman and Mark (Teresa) McCoy, all of Columbia City; and two grandchildren, Margaret (Troy) Hershberger and Daniel (Hillary) McCoy, all of Fort Wayne.
She was preceded in death by her parents and two brothers, Robert Burns and Keith Burns. There will be no visitation. A Celebration of Life service will be held at a later date.
For those who wish, memorials may be made to St. Paul of the Cross Catholic Church. Arrangements are being completed at Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City.
Condolences may be sent to www.smithandsonsfuneralhome.com
There will be no visitation. A Celebration of Life service will be held at a later date.
For those who wish, memorials may be made to St. Paul of the Cross Catholic Church. Arrangements are being completed at Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City.
Condolences may be sent to www.smithandsonsfuneralhome.com
