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October 30, 2009
Ruth F. Geiger, 86, slipped peacefully away in death on Thursday, October 29, 2009.
Alice B. DeBolt
Alice B. DeBolt, 91 of Hamilton, formerly of Columbia City, passed away at Hawthorn Glen Nursing Center on Friday, October 23, 2009 at 3:29 p.m.
She was born in Whitley County on July 9, 1918, the daughter of William F. and Clara "Mary" (Lefevre) Grace. Alice was employed as an assembly line worker for General Electric and was a member of Oak Grove Church of God.
In March 1937, she married Francis H. DeBolt, and he preceded her in death in 1962.
She is survived by three daughters, Donna (Gerald) Mansdorfer of Hamilton; Carolyn (Bill) Koozer of Antonito, Colorado; and Sharon DeBolt of Columbia City; two sisters, Irene (Walt) Rapp of Houston, Texas, and Ruby Fredericks of Huntington; six grandchildren; thirteen great-grandchildren; and two great-great grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents; spouse; two sons, Roger and Frederick DeBolt.
Funeral Services were held at the Oak Grove Church of God on Tuesday, October 27, 2009 at with Pastor Steve Johnson officiating. Burial followed in Oak Grove Cemetery. The family requests that in lieu of flowers donations may be made to any Hospice organization of the donor’s choice or to the Passages Program of Columbia City, Indiana. Funeral arrangements handled by Brown-Dawson Funeral Home of Hamiton, Ohio and Smith & Son Funeral Home of Columbia City, Indiana.
October 28, 2009
Mary Alice Frye, 90
Mary Alice Frye, 90, of Columbia City passed away at 7:30 a.m. on Wednesday, October 28, 2009, at Parkview Whitley Hospital.
Born on December 2, 1918, in Bluffton, Wells County, she was the daughter of Harry and Frances L. (Hughes) Ulmer. She graduated from Bluffton High School.
She was raised in Wells County, later moving to Jay County and, eventually, Whitley County.
On October 12, 1935, she married Forrest "Bud" Frye in Decatur.
She worked at Monsantos in Ligonier and then she and her husband operated Frye Grocery and Gas Station for 7 years at Merriam before she retired to Georgia in 1979, returning to Columbia City in 1990.
She was an active member of the Nazarene Church, Columbia City.
Survivors include her 6 children, Richard (Ardonna) Frye of Rome City; Phyllis (John) Yeatts of Warren; Larry (Diana) Frye of Rochester; Roger (Sharon) Frye of Trion, Georgia; Steve (Mary Lou) Frye of Bryant; John (Terry) Frye of Columbia City; a brother, John (Mary) Ulmer of Warsaw; 19 grandchildren; 42 great grandchildren; 24 great-great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, Forrest "Bud" Frye on April 22, 2002, 4 sisters, Esther Mossburg, Helen McKinney, Joan Ramseyer and Wanda Speece, 3 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren.
Visitation is from 4-8 p.m. Friday, October 30, 2009 at DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home. Funeral service will be at 10:00 a.m. with one hour of calling prior to service on Saturday, October 31, 2009 at DeMoney-Grimes Funeral Home with Pastor Thomas Beers of Columbia City Church of the Nazarene officiating. Burial will follow at Greenhill Cemetery in Columbia City.
Memorials may be given in memory of Mrs. Frye to Columbia City Church of the Nazarene. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.
Please visit www.demoneygrimes.com to send family condolences or sign the guest register book.
Shirley Jane Sallot, 69
Shirley Jane Sallot, 69, of South Whitley, passed away on Wednesday, October 28, 2009 at 2:59 a.m. at Parkview Hospital, Fort Wayne.
Born on September 11, 1940, in Churubusco, she was the daughter of Roy and Alta (Ferguson ) Deck.
A lifetime Whitley County resident, she graduated from Churubusco High School with the Class of 1958.
On August 12, 1969 she married Jon A. Sallot in Winchester, Virginia.
She was employed with Magnavox for 9 years and also worked as a waitress, cook and bartender at several Whitley County establishments.
She was a member of the American Legion Auxiliary Post #98.
Survivors include her husband, Jon A. Sallot of South Whitley; brother, Raymond (Jan) Deck of New Haven; sisters, Ferbia West of Garrett and Sharon (Robert) Renfro of Clute, Texas.
She was preceded in death by her parents, an infant son, Mark Lee Sallot, and brother, Roy Deck, Jr.
To honor Mrs. Sallot's request, services will be private.
Burial will be at South Park (Annex) Cemetery, Columbia City.
Memorials may be given in Mrs. Sallot's memory to the American Diabetes Association with envelopes available at the funeral home.
Arrangements have been entrusted to DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home. Please visit www.demoneygrimes.com to send family condolences or sign the guest register book.
October 20, 2009
Jay Edward Bohde, 41
Jay Edward Bohde, 41, of Loon Lake passed away at 8:36 p.m. Sunday, October 18, 2009, in the Parkview Whitley Hospital emergency room. 
Born on November 6, 1967, in Fort Wayne, he was the son of Thomas Edward and Janet Faye (Price) Bohde.
He graduated from Hawkinsville High School, Hawkinsville, Georgia. He has lived in numerous locations during his lifetime, including Fort Wayne, Bluffton, Augusta, Georgia, Federal Way, Washington, Herrin, Illinois, Hawkinsville, Georgia, Grand Prairie, Texas, Wichita, Kansas, and lastly moving to Columbia City.
He was employed by AIAI Trucking Company, Fort Wayne. He was a member of Buckmasters.
He is survived by his father, Thomas Edward Bohde, Columbia City; 2 brothers, Tracy and Dale Lee Bohde, both of Kentucky; a sister, Katie Ann Bohde of Columbia City; five nieces and nephews, including Sara, Samantha, Dustin, Victoria and Reese Bohde and a great niece, Maddy Bodhe.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Janet Faye.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, October 21, 2009 from 11 a.m.-3:00 p.m. at DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home, 600 Countryside Drive , ColumbiaCity with funeral service immediately following at 3:00 p.m. at the funeral home. DeMoney-Grimes Certified Funeral Celebrant, Sharon Brockhaus will be officiating. Memorials may be directed to the family. Envelopes will be available through the funeral home.
Visit www.demoneygrimes.com to leave a condolence or sign the guest register.
Linda "Sue" Ousley, 59
Linda "Sue" Ousley, 59, of Larwill died at 10:58 a.m. Sunday, October 18, 2009 at Parkview Hospital, Fort Wayne.
Born in Allen County on July 24, 1950, she was the daughter of Ronald Hugh and Ada Belle (Herron) Hile, Sr. 
She graduated from Columbia City Joint High School with the Class of 1969.
On June 23, 1973 she married Jerry Ousley at Troy Presbyterian Church. A lifetime Whitley County resident, she lived at her present home since 1975. She retired as an inspector for Weatherhead, Dana and C.F. Gomma with 30 years of service.
In her spare time, she tied blankets, enjoyed mushroom hunting, crocheting and knitting. "While she didn't have children of her own, she was a mom and grandma to a lot of kids, including her nieces and nephews. She always put others first."
Survivors include her husband, Jerry Ousley of Larwill; father, Ronald H. Hile, Sr. of Columbia City; sister, Rhonda Jane (Ron) Trahin of Columbia City; brother, Ronald L. (Jamie) Hile of Cromwell; 2 brothers-in-law, Homer (Marsha) Ousley of North Manchester and Roy (Becky) Ousley of Pierceton; father-in-law, Homer Ousley of Pierceton; 7 nephews and nieces, Christopher (Tiffany) Pressler of Conway, Arkansas, Dean Pressler, Albion, Tara Kloss, Cromwell, Travis (Lindsay) Hile, Cromwell, Taylor Hile, Cromwell, Kevin (Pam) Ousley, Columbia City, Rodney (Shelly) Ousley, Columbia City; several great-nephews and nieces.
She was preceded in death by her mother, Ada Belle Hile, mother-in-law, Lurannie Ousley and niece, Tanyan Hile.
Visitation is from 4-8 p.m. Tuesday, October 20, 2009, at DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home, 600 Countryside Drive , ColumbiaCity, IN. Funeral service is 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, October 21, 2009 with calling from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. prior to service at the funeral home with Pastor Curtiss Johnson officiating.
Memorials may be given in memory of Mrs. Ousley to Parkview Whitley Home Health & Hospice. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.
Please visit www.demoneygrimes.com to send family condolences or sign the guest register.
Samuel L. Pritchard, 77
Samuel L. Pritchard, 77, of Columbia City, died at 9 a.m. Wednesday, October 14, 2009 at his home.
He was born July 18, 1932 in Columbia City, Indiana a son of Carl and Esther L. (James) Pritchard. He was educated at West Ward Grade School, graduated from Columbia City High School in 1950 and continued his education at Manchester College.
On November 16, 1956 he entered the United States Air Force. He played trombone in the Air Force Band. He was honorably discharged December 11, 1960.
Following his discharge, he returned to Manchester College and completed his degree in accounting from Ball State in 1959.
In April 1961 he married Norma K. Nichols. They made their home in Sacramento, California and later El Dorado Hills, California. Mrs. Pritchard died in November 1996. He returned to Columbia City in June 2005.
He was an accountant in Evanston, Illinois for many years and retired from AeroJet in 1993. He also volunteered at Sierra Adoption Agency in California.
Surviving relatives include a sister, Mary Ellen (Larry) Wilkinson of Pierceton; and several nieces and nephews.
In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Joan Kelsey.
The memorial service will be held at 12 p.m., Saturday, October 24th at Smith & Sons Miller Chapel, South Whitley with the family receiving friends after 10:30 Saturday at the funeral home. The burial will be in South Whitley Cemetery.
For those who wish, memorials may be made to the Humane Society of Whitley County.
Bobbie Jean Butler, 82
Bobbie Jean Butler, 82, a resident of Churubusco and widow of Robert E. Butler, died at 8:45 p. m. on Monday, October 19, 2009, at The Oaks in Columbia City. She had been a patient there for he past six years.
Mrs. Butler was born in Greenwood, Mississippi, on May 11, 1927, a daughter of Hugh Davis and Louise [Holland] Moore, and spent her formative years in that area. Following her marriage she moved to this area, and moved from Arcola to Churubusco in 1954.
As a young girl she was raised in the Baptist faith, and had worked for 26 years at Dana Corporation in Churubusco, retiring from there in 1989. In her leisure time, she enjoyed flower gardening, music and dancing.
Mr. Butler preceded her in death on June 14, 1968.
The surviving relatives include her children Jean [Jim] McGuire and Peggy Tomlinson, both of Churubusco, and Donna Gilbert of Montpelier; eight grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren.
In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by two brothers, two sisters, and a grandson.
Funeral services will be held at 10 a. m. on Friday, October 23, 2009 at the Sheets & Childs Funeral Home in Churubusco.
The family will receive friends at the mortuary on Thursday from 2 to 8 p. m.
Interment will be in the Fairview Cemetery, northwest of Huntertown.
For those who wish, memorials may be directed to the donor’s choice.
Doris G. Bailey, 82
Doris G. Bailey, 82, a former resident of Churubusco and of Bear Lake, died at 3:50 p. m. on Monday, October 19, 2009, at Miller’s Merry Manor in Columbia City. She had been a patient there for over six years.
Mrs. Bailey was born in Whitley County on November 18, 1926, a daughter of William Edward and Lucille A. [Tulley] Summers, and spent her formative years in Churubusco. As a young woman she lived near Elizabethtown, Kentucky, and was married there on March 1, 1959 to James T. Bailey. He preceded her in death on November 6, 1977.
She lived at Bear Lake in Noble County for 20 years, and later returned to Churubusco where she lived until entering the nursing home.
She was a member of the Gilbert Davis American Legion Ladies Auxiliary Post 157 in Churubusco.
The surviving relatives include her son Frank [Linda] Demaree of Churubusco; three grandchildren Sally Davis and Frank Demaree, Jr., both of Churubusco, and Rhonda Walter of Columbia City; six great-grandchildren and four great-great-grandchildren.
In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by a son Danny Paul Wood on December 4, 1993; three sisters Irene Barker, Eva Marvel, and Ruby Guy; and by a brother Frank Summers.
Graveside services will be held at 2 p. m. on Friday, October 23, 2009, at the Riverview Cemetery, south of Churubusco, with Chaplain Larry Rice, Jr., officiating. Interment will follow.
At the request of the family, there will be no calling hours.
Sheets & Childs Funeral Home in Churubusco is in charge of the arrangements.
Neil F. Kreger, 73
Neil F. Kreger, 73, a resident of Churubusco, died on Thursday, October 15, 2009, at his home. Although he had been in failing health, his death was unexpected.
Mr. Kreger was born in Fort Wayne on November 25, 1935, a son of Kenneth W. and Hazel E. [Peek] Kreger, and spent his formative years in Huntertown. As a young man he served in the U. S. Army, and lived near Albion from 1973 until moving to Churubusco ten years ago.
He had been engaged in farming in Noble County and retired as a truck driver for Elway Trucking in Fort Wayne.
A member of the Teamster’s Union, he was also a member of the Gilbert Davis American Legion Post 157 in Churubusco and the Albion Fraternal Order of Eagles.
The surviving relatives include his children Deb [Michael] Kumfer of Fort Wayne, Eva [Joseph] Baysinger of Kimmell, Sharon Kreger and William [Peggy] Kreger, both of Churubusco, Brian [Janet] Kreger of Albion, and Dena Kreger of Syracuse; his brother Jerry [Joyce] Kreger of Pierceton; and a sister Sonia [Norm] Meyer of Fort Wayne. There are 15 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister Rita Kreger.
At the request of Mr. Kreger, there will be no services or calling hours.
Sheets & Childs Funeral Home in Churubusco is in charge of the arrangements.
October 15, 2009
Vivian Faye Harris, 100
Vivian Faye Harris, 100, of Columbia City, died at 12:30 a.m. Thursday, October 15, 2009 at The Oaks Living Center where she had been a resident since December 2003. 
She was born April 14, 1909, in Columbia Township, Whitley County, the only child of Walter and Mary (Killian) Mosher.
A lifelong resident of Columbia Township, she graduated from Columbia City High School in 1927. Active in music, speech, drama and girls basketball, she received her Bachelors Degree from Indiana University in 1931 and Masters Degree from St. Francis University in 1963.
On June 12, 1932, she was united in marriage to Gale R. Harris. They always made their home on the Harris family farm moving to their new home in 1965.
She served as Whitley County Schools attendance officer for four years and during World War II, she began teaching. She instructed English, Spanish and Journalism at Columbia City High School, Churubusco and later South Whitley for a total of 25 years, retiring in 1970. 
In her later years, she volunteered at Right Side Christian School.
Her memberships included Oak Grove United Methodist Church where she taught Sunday School for many years, National Education Society, National Society of Teachers of Spanish & Portuguese, Indiana Retired Teachers Association, Whitley County Retired Teachers Association, Alpha Delta Pi National Sorority (Beta Alpha Chapter in college to which she held the jewel degree and diamond circle distinction) and Philalethia Literary Society.
She served on the Republican precinct committee for many years, was secretary for the Whitley County Republican Central Committee for 30 years and president of Whitley County Republican Women’s Club for three years.
Surviving relatives include a son, Keith Harris of Mississippi; five grandchildren, Steve (Tracey) Harris of Morristown, Tennessee; Gary (Lisa) Harris of Columbia City; Cynthia (Gary) Schrader of Larwill; Deborah Knecht of Columbia City and Julia (David) Ozab of Eugene, Oregon; 12 great-grandchildren; and 14 great-great-grandchildren.
In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by a son, Harvey Harris and Michael Dean Harris.
The funeral service will be held at 7 p.m. Monday at Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City with visitation from 4 to 7 p.m. Monday at the funeral home.
Preferred memorials are to Oak Grove United Methodist Church or Whitley County Retired Teachers Association Scholarship at Whitley County Community Foundation.
Condolences may be sent to www.smithandsonsfuneralhome.com
October 13, 2009
Harbert H. “Dick” Richards, Jr. 73
Harbert H. “Dick” Richards, Jr. 73, of rural South Whitley, died at 5:30 a.m. Friday October 16, 2009 at his home.
He was born August 6, 1936 in Huntington, IN a son of Harbert H. and Helen (Reiff) Richards. His formative years where spent in Glendora, CA. The family moved back to the South Whitley area when he began high school. He graduated from South Whitley High School in 1954.
On October 12, 1957 he was united in marriage to Jacqueline Sue Richards. They made there home in the South Whitley area.
A life long farmer, he was also employed by Dana Corp., Fort Wayne for approximately 30 years retiring in 1999. He also drove a school bus for Whitko Schools in the ‘60s and early ‘70s. His passion was farming and he actively engaged in it until his death.
He enjoyed spending his winters at his home in Florida and his grandchildren were his pride and joy. He was a member of Collamer Christian Church, Mizpah Shrine and Eel River Masonic Lodge.
Surviving relatives include his wife of 52 years, Sue; a son, Kent (Becky)Richards, South Whitley; 3 daughters, Krista (Brian) Lickey of Columbia City, Karra (Steve) Heggen of Fort Wayne and Kathryn (Mark) Grachek of Winchester, KY; six grandchildren, Cameron Lickey, Marissa (Boyd) Sallee, Andrew and Vanessa Cleland, Dayne Richards and Todd Rogers; nine step-grandchildren, Michael and Jessie Dimmick, Brandon and Arien Dillion, Brandon and Lindsey Grachek and Alyssa, Kristin and Mariah Heggen; two step-great grandchildren, Ryland and Sauge Blair; a brother David (Judy) Richards, South Whitley and his mother-in-law Eileen Richards of North Manchester
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a father-in-law Jack Richards.
The funeral service will be at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, October 20, at Collamer Christian Church, 5850S 900W, South Whitley with Rev. David Wagner, Rev. JP Freeman, and Rev Richard Austin officiating. The burial will be in the South Whitley Cemetery. The visitation will be from 2 to 8 p.m. Monday at Smith and Sons Miller Chapel, South Whitley.
Memorials contributions may be made to Whitko Future Farmers of America.
Martha Jane Eberhardt, 87
Martha Jane Eberhardt, 87, passed away Saturday, October 10, 2009, at her Fort Wayne residence.
Born in Norwalk, Ohio, she was the daughter of Albert and Henrietta (Miller) Reynolds.
She married Peter Eberhardt on Aug. 1, 1943. He preceded her in death. She was a homemaker and member of First Wayne Street United Methodist Church and Daughters of the American Revolution.
She was a loving mother and cherished her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
She is survived by two daughters, Nancy (James R.) Byork of Richmond, Virginia, and Kathleen (Gary) Zimpelman of Columbia City; two grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.
Graveside service is 2:30 p.m. Wednesday at Woodlawn Cemetery, Norwalk, Ohio, with Pastor James R. Byork officiating. Memorials to First Wayne Street United Methodist Church, Fort Wayne.
Arrangements by D.O. McComb & Sons Lakeside Park Funeral Home, 1140 Lake Ave.
October 12, 2009
Ryan Richard Dewey, 40
Ryan Richard Dewey, 40, of Columbia City passed away at his residence Saturday, October 10, 2009 at 11:00 a.m.
Born on September 30, 1969, in Goshen, he was the son of Richard Dean and Donna Jean (Blakesly) Dewey. 
He lived his life in Goshen until moving to his present home in 2007.
He graduated from Goshen High School with the Class of 1988. He received an Associate Degree from Ivy Tech College.
On May 9, 2008, he married Janice Lee Onstott Eaglin in Columbia City. He worked at Krogers in Goshen for 17 years as head manager in the dairy department and lastly at Homecrest Cabinetry, Goshen, as a machine operator for several years.
Survivors include his wife, Janice Lee Dewey, Columbia City; parents, Richard D. and Donna J. Dewey, Goshen; 3 children including, Jamie Lee Eaglin of Columbia City, Brandon Michael (Holly) Eaglin of Larwill and Austin Robert Eaglin of Columbia City; 2 grandchildren, Riley Wade Kessie and Julieann Eaglin; 2 sisters, Sue Ann (Ed) Beehler and Cheryl Ann (Jim) Weaver, both of Goshen; his in-laws, Sharon and Ron Mashburn, Fort Wayne, and Robert and Julie Onstott, Hicksville, Ohio.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, October 14, 2009, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. with funeral service following at 2 p.m. at DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home, Columbia City. Sharon Brockhaus, DeMoney-Grimes Certified Funeral Celebrant, will be officiating. Burial will follow at South Park Annex Cemetery, Columbia City . Memorial bequests may be given in Mr. Dewey's memory to Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, Indiana Chapter, 941 East 86th Street, Suite 100, Indianapolis, IN 46240. Please visit www.demoneygrimes.com to send family condolences or sign the guest register book.
October 08, 2009
Myrtle M. Engle, 88
Myrtle M. Engle, 88, of Columbia City, died at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, October 7, 2009, at Miller’s Merry Manor where she had been a resident since October 2007.
She was born January 14, 1921, in Trimble County, Kentucky a daughter of LeRoy V. and Zelphia (Parson) Ogden. As a young girl, her family moved to Madison, where she completed her education.
On November 4, 1944, she was united in marriage to Dalton H. Engle. In 1945, they moved to Columbia City until 1956, when they moved to Wabash. Mr. Engle died June 2, 1990. In 2000, Myrtle returned to Columbia City.
She worked 30 years at United Technologies, retiring in 1984.
Her membership with the American Legion Auxiliary was more than 50 years.
Surviving relatives include a daughter, Beverly Chaney of Columbia City; two granddaughters, Janet Middlebrook of Columbia City and Shirley Pence of Wabash; four great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren; and two sisters, Helen Schneider and Evelyn Egolf, both of Columbia City.
In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by a daughter, Shirley Jean King; two brothers, Carlos William Ogden and Myrle Ogden; and two sisters, Jessie Liter and Nita Anglin.
The funeral service will be held at 3 p.m. Saturday at Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City. The burial will be in Greenhill Cemetery. The visitation will be from 1 to 3 p.m. Saturday at the funeral home.
Preferred memorials are to the final expense account at Smith & Sons Funeral Home.
Condolences may be left for the family at www.smithandsonsfuneralhome.com
Donald W. Greve, Sr., 83
Donald W. Greve, Sr., 83, a resident of Blue Lake near Churubusco, died at 9:35 p. m. on Wednesday, October 7, 2009, at the Provena Sacred Heart Home in Avilla. He had been a patient there for the past two years.
Mr. Greve was born in Fort Wayne on September 20, 1926, a son of Edward B. and Nora A. [Sutton] Greve, and spent his formative years there. As a young man he served in the U. S. Navy during World War II, and was married on November 2, 1946 to Susie Irene Ackerman. He had lived at his home at Blue Lake since 1954.
Employed as a truck driver for Old Fort Supply in Fort Wayne, he retired from there in 1985 after 25 years.
He was a member of the Gilbert Davis American Legion Post 157 in Churubusco and the Churubusco Veteran’s of Foreign Wars Turtle Post 3846. He was instrumental in starting the annual Blue Lake fireworks, and in his leisure time enjoyed fishing and Churubusco Eagle and Notre Dame Fighting Irish football.
Mrs. Greve preceded him in death on February 11, 2007.
The surviving relatives include his children Jimmy Powers of New York City, Don [Rosie] Greve of Churubusco, and Carol Collingsworth and Wanda Jett, both of Fort Wayne; eight grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, and a great-great-granddaughter.
In addition to his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by two brothers and two sisters.
Funeral services will be held at 2 p. m. on Saturday, October 10, 2009, at the Sheets & Childs Funeral Home in Churubusco with Chaplain Tom Novy, officiating. A U. S. Navy military presentation will immediately follow the service.
The family will receive friends at the mortuary on Saturday after 12 noon until the time of the service.
Interment will be in the Lake View Cemetery, Kendallville.
For those who wish, memorials may be directed to the Provena Sacred Heart Home in Avilla, or to Visiting Nurse & Hospice Home, Fort Wayne.
Helen J. Yant, 83
Helen J. Yant, 83, a resident of Fort Wayne and widow of Oathel S. Yant, died at 12:10 a.m. on Saturday, October 3, 2009, at her residence.
Mrs. Yant was born in Fort Wayne on October 20, 1925, a daughter of Arthur and Anna (Conahon) Arnold, and graduated from Central Catholic High School.
She was married in Fort Wayne to Oathel S. Yant on May 20, 1944, was a lifelong resident of the Fort Wayne-area, and had worked as a nurses aid at the former Fort Wayne State Developmental Center.
She attended the Peace United Church of Christ.
Mr. Yant preceded her in death on July 14, 2008.
The surviving relatives include three daughters Patricia Rich, Frances Williams, and Gloria (Jessie) Moseley, all of Fort Wayne; a sister Alene; a sister-in-law Gertrude Johnson of Doniphan, Mo; a brother-in-law George (Lucille) Yant of Fort Myers, Fla; six grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.
In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by a daughter Sara L. Mozingo; a son-in-law Robert Rich, and by a brother John Arnold.
Funeral services were held Thursday, October 8, at the Sheets & Childs Funeral Home in Churubusco with Chaplain Karen Kosberg, officiating.
For those who wish, memorials may be directed to Parkview Home Health & Hospice, 2270 Lake Avenue, suite 200, Fort Wayne, IN 46805
Lee E. Bell
Lee E. Bell, 84, of Indianapolis and formerly of Whitley County, recently passed away in Indianapolis.
Born in Huntington County, he was born March 11, 1925, the son of Ancel N. and Philleta (Weatherby) Bell.
He served in the US Navy during World War II.
He is survived by a son, Allen L. Bell, and two daughters, Nora J. Honeick and Christine M. Hackworth, and five grandchildren.
To honor his wishes, his body was donated to science. There were no services.
October 06, 2009
Nicholas "Nic" Scott McCoy
Nicholas "Nic" Scott McCoy, 41, of Kendallville and formerly of Columbia City passed away at 8:10 p.m. Friday, September 25, 2009 at his residence.
He was born on January 13, 1968 in Columbia City , the son of Jack LeRoy McCoy and Joan Pamela Pettigrew.
Nick spent his lifetime in the Kendallville and Noble County areas, graduating from East Noble High School with the Class of 1987, where he excelled in cross country, basketball and track.
He was employed first at Albion Wire for 13 years, owned and operated Prestige Carpet Care and currently was employed with Kraft Foods, Kendallville, in the production department.
His hobbies included hunting, fishing, sports, but most importantly, watching his children's involvement with numerous sporting activities.
Survivors include his 2 children, Ariel J. and Justin S. McCoy both of Garrett; father, Jack (Susan) McCoy, Columbia City; companion, Jamye A. Haynes, Kendallville; maternal grandmother, Wanda Beeching and paternal grandmother, Edna McCoy, both of Columbia City; 3 sisters, Gwen L. Stockert, Kendallville, Liv L.(Josh)Van Gessel of Avilla and Charity L. McCoy, Fort Wayne; 3 brothers, Tim L., Jackford and Quimby J. McCoy all of Columbia City; 3 step sisters, Wendy Johnson, Mechanicsville, Virginia, Heidi Schuman, Phoenix, Arizona, and Trudy McCormick, Freeland, Indiana.
He is preceded in death by his mother, Joan Pamela Pettigrew-Linnemeier who passed away on September 11, 1987, and 3 grandfathers, Ford McCoy, Alverl O. Pettigrew and Fred Beeching.
Funeral services were held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, September 30, 2009, at DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home with Pastor Thomas Dunbar of Immanuel Lutheran Church, Avilla, officiating. Burial followed at Greenhill Cemetery , Columbia City.
Memorial bequest may be given in Nick's memory to donor's choice. Envelopes will be available through the funeral home.
Please visit www.demoneygrimes.com to sign the guestbook and to leave a condolence.
October 05, 2009
Karen S. Jones, 47
Karen S. Jones, 47, of Bear Lake, died at 10:29 p.m. Saturday, October 3, 2009 at the Hospice Home in Fort Wayne where she was admitted on Thursday evening. She had been in failing health for the past six months.
She was born June 9, 1962, in Richmond, Indiana, a daughter of Albert L. and Phyllis J. (Laymon) Cleaver. As a teenager, her family moved to Fort Wayne. She graduated from Homestead High School and continued her education at Ball State University.
In the mid 1990s, she moved to the Bear Lake area. She was employed at Headquarters East in Columbia City, later Lyle Electric in Merriam and most recently at CVS in Ligonier.
On October 21, 2006, she was united in marriage to Stanley Chris Jones. They have always made their home at Bear Lake.
She was a member of Wolf Lake United Methodist Church. Surviving relatives include her husband, Chris; a son, Kevin A. Kennedy of Fort Wayne; her parents, Albert & Phyllis Cleaver of Fort Wayne; two brothers, Michael Cleaver of Andrews and Phillip Cleaver of Fort Wayne; and a grandmother, Helen Laymon of Huntington.
The memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. Sunday at Wolf Lake United Methodist Church, 1186 S. U.S. 33, with the family receiving friends after Noontime at the church.
Preferred memorials are to Kevin A. Kennedy Education Fund or Wolf Lake United Methodist Church Clinic.
Arrangements are being completed by Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City.
Condolences may be sent to www.smithandsonsfuneralhome.com
Nellie M. Schrader, 89
Nellie M. Schrader, 89, of rural Columbia City, died at 3:45 a.m. Sunday, October 4, 2009 at The Oaks Living Center where she had been a resident since April. 
She was born July 1, 1920, in Whitley County, a daughter of Perry and Lillie (Browder) Shoultz. Her formative years were spent in Thorncreek Township. She graduated from Columbia City High School in 1939.
On June 28, 1941, she was united in marriage to Charles R. Schrader. They made their home in Thorncreek Township, moving to Ohio for a couple years, later Noble County and then Fort Wayne for 10 years before returning to Thorncreek Township in 1971. Mr. Schrader preceded her in death on January 24, 1979.
During World War II, she was employed at Harvester and later Essex Wire for 13 years. They raised dairy cows and chickens. She enjoyed gardening, canning freezing and working with her flowers.
A lifelong member of Big Lake Church of God, she taught Sunday School and was in the church choir.
Surviving relatives include two sons, Richard Schrader and Danny Schrader, both of Columbia City; seven grandchildren, Richel Ormsby, William Whittenberger, Angel Donato, Richard Schrader Jr., Anthony Schrader, Nick Schrader and Ashley Schrader; five great-grandchildren; and a brother, Paul Shoultz of South Carolina.
In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by a son, Gary Schrader; a brother, Scott Shoultz; and a sister, Esther Shoultz.
The funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday at Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City. 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 Big Lake Church of God or American Cancer Society.
Condolences may be left for the family at www.smithandsonsfuneralhome.com
October 04, 2009
Annetta Bernice Phillips, 90
Annetta Bernice Phillips, 90, of Columbia City, IN passed away at 8 p.m., Saturday, October 3, 2009, at The Oaks.
Born on March 16, 1919, in Columbia City, she was the daughter of Russell L. Hawn and Clelo Catherine (Killian)Hawn.
When she was a child her family lived for three years in Toledo, Ohio, and then they moved back to Whitley County where she has remained a resident.
She graduated from Washington Center High School with the Class of 1937 as valedictorian.
On December 24, 1939, she married Paul Leroy Phillips in Columbia City.
For nearly 25 years she was employed as a sewing machine operator by the former Blue Bell, Inc., Columbia City, retiring when the plant closed.
For many years she was a well known cake baker and decorator in the area having made hundreds of wedding and birthday cakes. Her other hobbies included crafting, sewing and creating wooden lawn ornaments. She was a member of West Point Trinity United Methodist Church, Columbia City.
Survivors include her daughters, Marilyn of Vincennes; Carol (Randolph) Groves of Columbia City; and Donna (Mike) Jardot of Kenton, Ohio; a sister, Clara Ellen (Allen) Fugate of South Whitley; seven grandchildren including, Kevin of Vincennes, Tammy (Larry) McCoy, also of Vincennes, Crista Hall of Columbia City, Ryan (Sandra) Groves of Granger, David (Heather) Jardot of Hilliard, Ohio, and Michelle (Scott Kunkel) Jardot of Medina, Ohio. She is also survived by 11 great-grandchildren including, Briahana Rienhart and Cody and Cordell McCoy of Vincennes, Kyler Hall of Columbia City, Delaney and Evan Groves of Granger, and Katrina Jardot of Medina, Ohio.
She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, Paul Leroy Phillips on June 5, 2002, brothers, Carl, Russell and Arlo Hawn and a sister, Hildreth Wince.
Visitation is from 5-8 p.m. Tuesday, October 6, 2009 at DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home, 600 Countryside Drive, Columbia City, IN. Funeral service will be at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, October 7, 2009, at DeMoney-Grimes Funeral Home with Pastor Lois Cannon of West Point Trinity United Methodist Church officiating. Burial will take place at Nolt Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given in memory of Mrs. Phillips to West Point Trinity United Methodist Church, Columbia City, or the donor's choice of charity. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.
Please visit www.demoneygrimes.com to send family condolences or sign the guest register book.
