Memorials: August 2010 Archives

Freida Blanche Fleck, 95

Freida Blanche Fleck, 95, of Columbia City, IN passed away at 9:20 p.m. Saturday, August 28, 2010 at Miller's Merry Manor Inc., Columbia City. Born on July 5, 1915 in Columbia Township, Whitley County, she was the daughter of Charles Grover and Estella Mae (Crawford) Wynkoop.

She has been a lifelong resident of Columbia City graduating from Columbia City High School with the Class of 1933. On June 26, 1937 she married Raymond Franklin Fleck in Columbia City, where she spent 45 years in the same house on North Main Street. She was a homemaker, and at one time was secretary for DeKalb Seed Corn and worked in the office of Blue Bell, Columbia City, for 17 years.
She was a member of the First Church of God since age 14 and currently attended Columbia City United Methodist Church and was a past member of the Fidelity Club.
Always an avid reader, she served on library committees; as a den mother; dedicated IU fan and also participated in several bridge groups over the years.
Survivors include her 2 sons, Richard Grover (Joyce) Fleck of Columbus and Mayor James Raymond (Kay M.) Fleck of Columbia City; 4 grandchildren, The Rev. Timothy (Robert Schmeler) Fleck, Lexington, KY, Bradford Fleck, Columbus, The Rev. Paul (Renate) Fleck, New Haven, CT, Heather (Neil) Wohlford-Fleck, Arlington, VA; 2 great-grandchildren, Daniel Fleck and Carys Wohlford.
She is preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Raymond Franklin Fleck, 4 sisters, Gwen M. Schwiebert, Edna L. Bowen, Gladys Orr and Vera M. Wheeler.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, September 2, 2010 from 3-7:00 p.m. at DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home, 600 Countryside Drive, Columbia City. Funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m. Friday, September 3, 2010 at the funeral home. Those officiating will be Pastor David Arnold, The Rev. Timothy Fleck, The Rev. Paul Fleck and Heather Fleck. Burial will follow at Greenhill Cemetery, Columbia City.
Memorial gifts may be given in Mrs. Fleck's memory to Columbia City United Methodist Church or First Church of God Building Funds or Passages, Inc. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.
Please visit www.demoneygrimes.com to send family condolences or sign the guest register book.

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Karla K. Coyle-Kammeyer, 45

Karla K. Coyle-Kammeyer, 45, of Fort Wayne passed away at 10 p.m. Wednesday, August 25, 2010 at Visiting Nurse and Hospice Home, Fort Wayne.

Born November 16, 1964 in Columbia City, she was the daughter of Kay L. and Yvonne "Bonnie" (Newsome) Coyle.
Raised in Columbia City, she graduated with the Class of 1983 from Columbia City High School.
For the past 20 years, she resided in Fort Wayne. She was formerly employed by Casual Corner, Betty's Smart Shop, later owning and operating The Smart Shop from 1990-1996, and Casual Male Big & Tall in Fort Wayne from 2000 2007. She was most recently employed by Fort Financial Credit Union, Fort Wayne.
Survivors include her parents, Kay and Bonnie Coyle of Columbia City; fiancee, Mark Harris of Fort Wayne; step-son, Ian Harris of Fort Wayne; nephews, Jason and Jeremy Shoda both of Columbia City; and four great-nephews.
She was preceded in death by her brother and sister-in-law, Ronald and Sharon Shoda.
Visitation is 1-3 p.m. with funeral service at 4 p.m. on Sunday, August 29, 2010 at DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home, 600 Countryside Drive, Columbia City. Sharon Brockhaus, certified funeral celebrant will officiate. Entombment at South Park Annex Cemetery, Columbia City.
Memorials may be given in Karla's memory to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.
Please visit www.demoneygrimes.com to send family condolences or sign the guest register book.

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Mildred "Millie" Earlene Bradbury, 55

Mildred "Millie" Earlene Bradbury, 55, of Columbia City passed away at 2:00 p.m. Monday, August 23, 2010 at her residence.

Born on June 16, 1955 in Columbia City, she was the daughter of Earl Jay Graves and Barbara Lou (Herron) Sanderson.
She was a liftetime resident of Columbia City and graduated from Columbia City Joint High School with the Class of 1973. On December 12, 1986 she married John Wayne Bradbury at Etna United Methodist Church. She worked at Group Dekko, Inc., North Webster for 36 years as a server/operator. Her hobbies were crocheting, camping and horseback riding.
Survivors include her husband, John Wayne Bradbury of Columbia City; mother, Barbara Lou (Herron) Sanderson of Fort Wayne; son, Mike (Tiffany) Jones of Whitley County; daughter, Melinda Jones of Fort Wayne; brothers and sisters, Diane (Bernard) Squires of Columbia City, Byron "Buck" (Flo) Graves of Avilla, Faith Ann (Tim) Metz of Cromwell, Ramon (Denise) Sanderson of Briceton, OH and Steve (Sandy) Sanderson of Bower, IL; grandchildren, Abby Jones and TJ Jones of Whitley County, Hayden Meyer of Columbia City and Olivia West of Fort Wayne and mother-in-law, Sandra D. May of Goshen. She was preceded in death by her father, Earl Jay Graves, step-father, Ramon Sanderson, sister, Evelyn Jewell, brother, Theodore Sanderson and grandparents, Dewey and Mildred Herron.
Visitation is from 2-4 & 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, August 25, 2010 at DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home, 600 Countryside Drive, Columbia City. Funeral service will be at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, August 26, 2010 at funeral home with Reverend Wade Sturdivat of New Freedom Baptist Church officiating with burial at St. Matthew's Cemetery. Memorials may be given in memory of Mrs. Bradbury's to Pancreatic Cancer Research Foundation. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.
Please visit www.demoneygrimes.com to send family condolences or sign the guest register book.

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Walter Burdette Crampton, Jr., 84

Walter Burdette Crampton, Jr., 84, of Columbia City, IN passed away at 8:00 p.m. Sunday, August 22, 2010 at his residence.

Born August 24, 1925 in Eaton, Delaware County, IN he was the son of Walter B. and Vera B. (Andrews) Crampton.
Since the age of 11, he has spent his life in the Tri-Lakes, Columbia City, area. He graduated from Columbia City High School, attended Wabash College for 2 years and Purdue University for 2 years. He served in the United States Army National Guard for 32 years. On October 26, 1944, he married Dorothy M. Crampton in Covington, KY. He retired in 1991 as an electronic technician at the former Magnavox Company, Fort Wayne. He was a member of the Tri-Lakes Baptist Church and former member of the Columbia City Rotary Club.
Survivors include his 5 children, Ken (Dorie) Crampton of Columbia City; Treasa Crampton of Columbia City; Noreen (Glen) Kemery of Playa Del Rey, CA; Dennis (Fran) Crampton of San Diego, CA; Dr. Michael (Nancy) Crampton of Columbia City; 2 sisters, Lucinda (Bruce) Rex and Barbara Miller both of Columbia City; 2 brothers, Lloyd (Judy) Crampton of Grand Marie, MI; John Crampton of Columbia City; 14 grandchildren; 5 great grandchildren. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Dorothy M. Crampton and brothers, Keith and Richard Crampton.
Visitation is Wednesday, August 25, 2010 from 4-7 p.m. at DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home, 600 Countryside Drive, Columbia City. Funeral service will immediately follow visitation at 7:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Graveside service is Thursday, August 26, 2010 at 3:30 p.m. at South Park Original Cemetery, Columbia City. Memorials may be given in Mr. Crampton's memory to Rotary Boy's State. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Please visit www.demoneygrimes.com to send family condolences or sign the guest register book.

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Deanna Marie Wagner, 37

Due to injuries she sustained in an ATV accident, Deanna Marie Wagner, 37, of Columbia City, passed away at 6:34 p.m. Saturday, August 21, 2010 at Monroe Hospital, Bloomington, IN.

Born August 12, 1973 in Auburn, IN she was the daughter of Fredrick J. and Sherry Lindell (Williams) Harroff.
She attended Columbia City High School and Cornerstone Christian Schools. Raised in Churubusco and a current Whitley County resident, she was a homemaker.
Survivors include her parents, Fredrick and Sherry Harroff of Columbia City; daughters, Hope Ann and Faith Lynn Wagner both of Columbia City; sisters, Kimberley (Garry) Gorsuch of Albion and Roberta (Dean) Wort of Hicksville, OH; maternal grandmother, Phyllis Walerstein of Columbia City; 6 nieces and nephews; and fiance, Neil Carpenter of Columbia City.
She was preceded in death by twin sons, Matthew & Anthony Wagner.
Visitation is Thursday, August 26, 2010 from 4-7 p.m. at DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Drive, 600 Countryside Drive, Columbia City. At the family's request, there will be no funeral service. Memorials may be given in memory of Deanna to the Wagner Children's Fund. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.
Please visit www.demoneygrimes.com to send family condolences or sign the guest book.

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Ralph McKibben, 85

Ralph McKibben, 85, of Fort Wayne, died at 1:45 a.m. Tuesday, August 24, 2010 peacefully at his home with family beside him.

He was born December 13, 1924 in McConnelsville, Ohio a son of Addison Edward and Alma (Fitch) McKibben.
Ralph served in England and Germany with the United States Army from 1943 until 1946. After his discharge, he came to Fort Wayne where he worked for the bus service and drove some of the original trolleys in Fort Wayne.
On October 22, 1949 he was united in marriage to Bonnie Kile. They always made their home in Fort Wayne. Mrs. McKibben died December 16, 2009. Click here to view her obituary.
He later worked in the insurance business and worked at various agencies throughout the years, retiring from Epco Insurance. His kindness and compassion for people made the insurance business a perfect profession for him. His clients knew they could call him day or night in an emergency and he was able to comfort them.
A charter member of Good Shepherd United Methodist Church, his hobbies included golf, Cubs baseball and telling a good joke.
Surviving relatives include three children, Marsha (Jim) Wulpi, Lisa Schwaberow and Mark (Karen) McKibben; nine grandchildren, Ryan (Jennifer) Wulpi, Ben, Alex & Logan Wulpi, Dan, Olivia & Levi Schwaberow and Dustin & Chance McKibben; a sister, Goldie (David) Ross; and a sister-in-law, Pat Little, all of Fort Wayne.
In addition to his wife of 60 years, he was preceded in death by his oldest daughter, Linda McKibben, on March 21, 2008.
The service will be 10:30 a.m. Monday at Good Shepherd United Methodist Church, 4700 Vance Avenue, Fort Wayne with one hour of visitation prior to the service. The entombment will be in Concordia Cemetery. The visitation will also be from 3 to 6 p.m. Sunday at the church.
Preferred memorials are to Good Shepherd United Methodist Church or Parkview Home Health & Hospice.
Arrangements are by Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City.

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Carolyn A. Green, 65

Carolyn A. Green, 65, of Columbia City, passed away at 8:16 a.m. on Saturday, August 21, 2010 at her residence.
Born on February 13, 1945 in Fort Wayne, she was the daughter of Robert V. Benson and Virginia P. (Peters) Jackson.

She is a lifetime resident of Columbia City and graduated from Churubusco High School with the Class 1963. On October 30, 1990, she married Fredrick K. Green, Jr. in Columbia City. A wife, mother and homemaker, she also worked at Wal-Mart for 7 years.
Survivors include her husband, Fredrick K. Green, Jr. of Columbia City; son, Matthew (Amy) R. Boggs of Wawaka, Ind; daughter, Tracie (Dale) M. Wicker of Columbia City; mother, Virginia P. (Larry) Jackson of Fort Wayne, Ind.; sister, Marilyn (Mike) I. Cramer of Huntertown, Ind.; and 6 grandchildren; nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her father, Robert V. Benson.
A graveside service will be held on Monday, August 23, 2010 at 11:00 a.m. at Eel River Cemetery, 11400 West Carroll Road, Churubusco, IN. Memorials may be given in memory of Mrs. Green to the Columbia City Fire Department. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.
Please visit www.demoneygrimes.com to send family condolences or sign the guest register book.

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Robert W. "Bubba" Brown, 32

Robert W. "Bubba" Brown, 32, of Albion, passed away at 2:57 p.m. on Friday, August 20, 2010 at his residence.
Born on May 24, 1978 in Columbia City, he was the son of Dennis Brown and Kathi Boyer-Meyer.
A lifetime resident of Whitley and Noble Counties he attended Whitko High School. He was a mechanic and general handyman, but his favorite job was being "dad" to his son.

Survivors include his mother, Kathi Boyer-Meyer of Albion, Ind.; father, Dennis Brown of Columbia City; son, Chase Michael Brown of Albion; sisters, Tara (Christopher Watkins) Boyer and Karri Brown of Cowpens, SC; and his niece, Madison Elizabeth Denise Brown also of Cowpens.
He was preceded in death by his step-father, Leon Meyer; maternal grandparents, Robert "Doc" and Mabel Boyer; and fraternal grandparents, William and Ilah Brown.
Visitation will be held on Tuesday, August 24, 2010 from 5:00 pm-7:00 pm at Demoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home, 600 Countryside Drive, Columbia City, IN. Funeral services will follow at 7:00 pm Tuesday, August 24, 2010 at the funeral home with Pastor Lois Cannon officiating. Burial will take place at a later date in Lakeview Cemetery in Kendallville, Ind. In lieu of flowers the family request that memorials be made to the final expense account c/o DeMoney-Grimes Funeral Home. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.
Please visit www.demoneygrimes.com to send the family condolences or sign the guest register book.

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Jack Eugene Pritchard, 76

Jack Eugene Pritchard, 76, of Columbia City, passed away at 3:53 p.m., Friday, August 20, 2010 at his residence.

Born on February 22, 1934 in Columbia City, he was the son of Merl and Sara (Brown) Pritchard.
A lifetime resident of Columbia City, he attended school at Jefferson Township School. On September 15, 1953 he married Roberta Mae Birch in Columbia City. He was employed with the Whitley County Highway Department for over 35 years, retiring in 1995. He was an active member of the Blue River Church of the Brethren.
Survivors include his wife of 56 years, Roberta Mae Pritchard of Columbia City, IN; son, Alan (Cathy) Pritchard, 3 daughters, Linda Hartman, Penny (Ronald) McCain, and Pam (Jerry) Calhoon all of Columbia City; 9 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents, brother, Harry Pritchard, and 3 sisters, Velma Carlisle, Viola King and Willodean Bennett.
Visitation will be held on Monday, August 23, 2010, from 6-8 p.m. at Demoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home, 600 Countryside Drive, Columbia City, IN. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, August 24, 2010 at 10:00 a.m. at the Blue River Church of the Brethren, 3040 East 700 North, Columbia City, Ind. with Pastor Craig Myers officiating. Burial will follow at Thorn Cemetery, 625 W 350 S, Ormas, IN. Memorials in Mr. Pritchard's memory can be made to the Deacon's Fund at Blue River Church of the Brethren or to Visiting Nurse and Hospice Home. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.
Please visit www.demoneygrimes.com to send family condolences or sign the guest register book.

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Betsy Goodwin Gates, 77

Betsy Goodwin Gates, 77, of Columbia City, died Friday afternoon at Miller’s Merry Manor.
She was born April 19, 1933, in Knoxville, Tennessee a daughter of Martin Gilbert and Mary Lynn (Foster) Goodwin. She graduated from Lenoir City High School in 1951, attended Randolph Macon Women’s College for two years and graduated from the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill in 1955.
On August 16, 1955, she was united in marriage to Benton E. Gates Jr. In the Spring of 1957, they moved to Columbia City.
A teacher, she taught school in Kansas and Missouri and later served as a substitute teacher in the Columbia City area for 23 years.
Her memberships included Columbia City United Methodist Church for over 50 years and its Women’s Group, Tri Kappa where she was a past president and Parliamentary Law & Literary Club. She was well known for her long time visitation at local nursing homes.
Surviving relatives include her husband, Ben; a son, Benton E. (Janet) Gates III of Fort Wayne; two daughters, Mary Lynn (Gary) Pottorff of Carmel and Marti (Kent) Lundy of Huntington; six grandchildren, Betsy Lynn Pottorff Dammeier, Gregory W. Pottorff, Alex D. Williams, Benjamin L. Williams, Joshua Wesley Lundy and Nathan Charles Lundy; and a great-granddaughter, Makenna Dammeier.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a daughter, Betsy Jayne Gates.
The funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. Monday at Columbia City United Methodist Church, 605 Forest Parkway with visitation one hour prior to the service. The burial will be in Greenhill Cemetery. The visitation will also be from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Sunday at Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City.
Preferred memorials are to Betsy Jayne Gates Memorial Fund c/o Whitley County Community Foundation.
Condolences may be sent to smithandsonsfuneralhome.com.

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Irma Sue Crutchfield, 64

Irma Sue Crutchfield, 64, of Columbia City, IN passed away at 11:45 a.m. at her residence.
Born on July 26, 1946 in Avawam, KY she was the daughter of Charles and Ruby (Feltner) Lovely.
She was born and raised in Kentucky and in the spring of 1964 moved to Springfield, Ohio. In the fall of 1964 she moved to Whitley County and has resided there since. She graduated from Breathitt High School in Kentucky with the Class of 1964. For over 20 years she worked as a supervisor for Dana Weatherhead Corp., Columbia City, IN. She was a member of St. Paul of the Cross Catholic Church, Columbia City, IN and a past member of the American Legion #98, Columbia City, IN.
Survivors include her husband, Clyde Crutchfield; 2 sons, Charles A. (Kristie) Minnix of Fort Wayne, IN; Kevin J. Minnix of Columbia City; daughter, Danita (Gary) Marshall of Columbia City; step-son, Tim (Amanda) Crutchfield of Columbia City; sister, Anita (Larry) Cydruss of Springfield, OH; 9 grandchildren, Joshua Minnix of Indianapolis, Christopher Minnix of Munice, Britney and Leah Shoda of Columbia City, Chelsee Marshall of Roanoke, Katlyn Marshall of Columbia City, and Myrissa, Ethan and Logan Crutchfield all of Columbia City; and great-grandchild, Keiten Byram of Columbia City. She was preceeded in death by her parents and brother, Charles F. Lovely.
Visitation is from 4 - 8 p.m. on Thursday, August 19, 2010 at DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home, 600 Countryside Drive, Columbia City, IN with a prayer vigil to take place at 7:30 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, August 20, 2010 at the St. Paul of the Cross Catholic Church with Father Larry Kramer officiating. Burial will be private at a later date. Memorials may be given in memory of Mrs. Crutchfield to the American Cancer Society. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.
Please visit www.demoneygrimes.com to send family condolences or sign the guest register book.

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Arthur E. Loe, 74

Arthur E. Loe, 74, of Columbia City, died Friday evening, August 13, 2010 at Sacred Heart Hospital of Eau Claire, Wisconsin where he was admitted on July 31.
He was born February 24, 1936 in Columbia City, Indiana a son of James E. and Sarah Jane Olive (DeWitt) Loe. As a young boy, his family moved to the Roanoke area. He graduated from Roanoke High School in 1954. In 1955 he moved to Larwill.
On January 14, 1959 he was inducted in the United States Army. He was honorably discharged as Corporal on December 31, 1964.
On September 29, 1961 he was united in marriage to Mary Lou Wolfe. They made their home in Larwill until August 2003 when they moved into Columbia City. For the past 23 years, they have spent their summers in Wisconsin.
He retired from Dana Weatherhead with more than 30 years of service.
His memberships included United States Bowling Congress, Huntington County Basketball Hall of Fame, formerly Columbia City Moose Lodge and formerly Fort Wayne Eagles #248.
Surviving relatives include his wife, Mary Lou; four daughters, Christina Loe of Larwill, Laura (Phil) Cameron of Larwill, Rochelle Boschet of Columbia City and Janice (David) Fry of Bullhead, Arizona; a son, Bart (Erika) Loe of Warsaw; eight grandchildren; a brother, Jack Humphrey of Mishawaka; and three sisters, Catherine Sheets of Larwill, Patricia Ulrey of Warsaw and Imogene Taylor of Huntington.
He was preceded in death by six brothers, James Loe, Franklin Loe, Dale Loe, Ralph Loe, Grant Martz and Lester Lindsley; and three sisters, Netha Walter, Alice Mort and Charlotte Loe.
The funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Thursday at Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City. The burial will be in Covington Memorial Gardens, Fort Wayne. The visitation will be from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home.
Preferred memorials may be made to the donor’s favorite charity.
Condolences may be sent to smithandsonsfuneralhome.com.

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Duane E. Hawn, 80

Duane E. Hawn, 80, formerly of Larwill, died Friday morning, August 13, 2010 at The Laurels of Dekalb where he had been a resident since January 12, 2010.
He was born October 3, 1929 in Marion, Indiana a son of John Franklin and Pauline (Bauserman) Hawn. As a young boy, his family moved to Richland Township.
On September 16, 1948 he enlisted in the United States Army. In 1949 he married Herta Wilhelmine Fischer. Following his honorable discharge on September 15, 1951, they returned to the Larwill area.
He was employed at Farmer’s Elevator in South Whitley, Brunwick Boat Company in Warsaw, Harvestore in Silver Lake, Parker Inc. in Silver Lake and retired from Swihart Grain Company in Silver Lake.
His memberships included AmVets Post #2919 of South Whitley.
Surviving relatives include a son, Raimund Hawn of South Whitley; two sisters, Retha Cluster of Butler and Margaret “Peg” Yoder of Garrett; and three brothers, Darrell Hawn of Garrett, Marion “Manny” Hawn of Rome City and Kerwin “Kirby” Hawn of Hudson.
In addition to his wife, Herta, who died September 17, 2000, he was preceded in death by two sisters, Noelys Martin and LaDial E. White; and a brother, Keith Hawn.
The funeral service will be held at 7 p.m. Tuesday at Smith & Sons Miller Chapel, South Whitley with visitation from 4 to 7 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home.
The committal service will be held at 12 Noon Saturday, August 21, 2010 at Lakeview Cemetery, Larwill with military honors presented.
Preferred memorials are to Riley Children’s Hospital or Humane Society of Whitley County.

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Doris M. Martin, 83

Doris M. Martin, 83, of Columbia City, passed away at 12:10 a.m. Thursday, August 12, 2010 at The Oaks, Columbia City.

Born on April 2, 1927 in Joliet, IL, she was the daughter of Fred E. and Luella M. (Effner) McCloud.
She graduated with the Class of 1945 from South Side High School, Fort Wayne and on June 2, 1945, she married Robert W. Martin at South Wayne United Methodist Church, Fort Wayne. A former resident of Churubusco and St. Paul, MN, she moved to Columbia City in 2003. Doris worked in secretarial positions at J.I. Case Company, Peter Eckrich, Dr. Richard Mann and St. Joseph Hospital. While living in Minnesota, she sold residential real estate for 8 years. A former news reporter for the Columbia City Post and Mail and Churubusco News, she retired February 1, 1998.
Since 1960, she has been an active member of Kappa Delta Phi Sorority serving in national and regional offices for 18 years including national president from 1978-1980. She organized Gamma Alpha Eta Chapter, Churubusco, in 1964. She served on fund drives for the American Heart Association where she was honored with several awards from Northeast Indiana Heart Fund Chapter, while serving on the Board of Directors. For 13 years, she was active in Turtle Days where she served as Grand Marshall of Parade in 1995 and general chairman including the silver anniversary in 1974. She also broadcast "Turtle Talk" over WIFF radio station, Auburn, for two years.
Survivors include her husband of 65 years, Robert W. Martin of Columbia City; 3 sons, Donald W. (Martha) Martin of Aurora, IL, David R. (Vivian) Martin of Sheperdville, KY and Fred Gaff, Churubusco; 5 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren; brother, Jay W. McCloud of Bangor, MI. She was preceded in death by her parents and brother, Robert W. McCloud.
Visitation is Friday, August 13, 2010 from 4-8 p.m. at DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home, 600 Countryside Drive, Columbia City. Funeral service is Saturday, August 14, 2010 at 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home with Pastor Terry Zolman of Merriam Christian Chapel Church. Burial will follow at Greenlawn Memorial Park, Fort Wayne. Memorial gifts may be given in Mrs. Martin's memory to the Whitley County EMS. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Please visit www.demoneygrimes.com to send family condolences or sign the guest register book.

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Theresa A. Zorger, 85

Theresa A. Zorger, 85, of Columbia City, passed away at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, August 10, 2010 at Lutheran Hospital of Indiana, Fort Wayne.

Born on May 10, 1925 in Ege, she was the daughter of Frank and Louise (Gibbons) Troendly.
She was raised in Fort Wayne, living there until eighth grade. She then moved to Wisconsin where she graduated from Milwaukee High School with the Class of 1943 and attended Wisconsin College for 2 years. On March 4, 1946, she married Lavern H. Zorger in Monroeville and she later returned to Fort Wayne. Since 1951, she has resided at her Thorncreek Township home. A cashier at the Columbia City Kroger Store for 23 years, she retired in 1985. She was a member of St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church, Monroeville and was a current member of St. Paul of the Cross Catholic Church where she taught CCD class.
Survivors include her children, James L. (Julia) Zorger of Murfreesboro, TN, Joan M.(Stephen) Wolfe of Davisburg, MI and John C. Zorger of Columbia City; sister, Frances Gibson of Monroeville; 4 grandchildren, Julia Zorger, Matthew Wolfe, Beth (Adam) Shafer and Jason Wolfe; 3 great grandchildren, Victoria, Veronica and Vannessa; brother and sister-in-laws, Frances Gibson of Monroeville, Norman (Gloria) Zorger of Spencerville, Keith (Donna) Zorger of Spencerville, Lyle (Maxine) Zorger of Fort Wayne, Jerry (Jean) Zorger of Columbia City, Jean (Earl) Auld of Avilla, and Nadean Zorger of Huntington.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Lavern H. Zorger, daughter, Susan Jackson, brothers, George and Joseph Troendly, sisters, Margaret Junk and Mary Andreski.
Visitation is 4-8 p.m. Thursday, August 12, 2010 with the Recitation of the Rosary at 7:30 p.m. at DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home, 600 Countryside Drive, Columbia City. Visitation will also be from 9-10:00 a.m. Friday, August 13, 2010 with the funeral mass immediately following at 10:00 a.m. at St. Paul of the Cross Catholic Church, 315 South Line Street, Columbia City. Father Larry Kramer will be officiating. Committal service and burial will follow at Covington Memorial Gardens, Fort Wayne. Memorials may be given in memory of Mrs. Zorger to Masses at the Catholic Church. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Please visit www.demoneygrimes.com to send condolences or sign the guest register.

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Andrew Allen Miller, 29

Andrew Allen Miller, 29, of Columbia City, died Friday, August 6, 2010 at his home.
He was born September 1, 1980, in Columbia City, Indiana a son of Kent and Dee Dee (Neidigh) Miller. His formative years were spent in Columbia City. He graduated from Columbia City High School with the Class of 1999.
He was employed by the KAM Group, Columbia City, where he was the Secretary/Treasurer.
He had a passion for life and lived it to the fullest. He loved animals especially his dog, Max. Always encouraging others to succeed, he often treated his young school friends to pizzas when they had good report cards.
He leaves behind his father, Kent (Debra) Miller, Columbia City; mother, Dee Dee (Jerry) Gurrado, Columbia City; grandmothers, Virginia Miller and Shirley Neidigh; step-grandparents, Delbert & Genny Robinson and Dolores Gurrado; half-brothers, Taylor and Logan Bockelman; step-brothers, Bret and Toby Kiester; uncle, Bruce Miller and niece, MaKenna Miller.
He was preceded in death by his brother Michael “MJ” Miller; grandfathers, Charles Miller and Frank Neidigh and uncle Randolph “Randy” Miller.
The funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m. Wednesday at Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City with Rev. Barry Faucet officiating. The burial will be in Eel River Cemetery. Visitation will be from 2 to 5 and 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home.
Preferred memorials are to Andrew Miller Memorial Fund.

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Langohr Memorial Reception held Saturday

A Celebration of Life Reception for Margaret "Margo" Kaler Langohr, 97, was held from Saturday, August 7, 2010 at the Smith & Sons Coach Room, 205 N. Main Street, Columbia City.
Mrs. Langohr, the widow of Dr. John L. Langohr died on Saturday, October 24, 2009, in Durham, North Carolina. She taught school at the Marshall Memorial School from 1959 until 1974. Margo was a talented artist and crafts woman. A number of her works of art were displayed at the reception.
She is survived by two daughters, Judy (Dwight) Ebeling, Longmeadow, MA and Lucy (John) Grant, Durham, NC; grandchildren, Stacey (Jim) McMahon, John Ebeling, Andrew (Rebecca) Grant, Margaret Kaler (Warren) Terry; great grandchildren, Griffin and Katie McMahon, Abby and Hudson Grant, Kaler and Davis Terry.
The burial was in the family plot in the Greenhill Cemetery.

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Karen Lee Fisher, 67 -- Pending

Karen Lee Fisher, 67, of Sarasota, Florida, died Friday evening, August 6, at Manocare in Sarasota.
She was born April 1, 1943 in Toledo, Ohio a daughter of Bryce B. and Chaltha Mae (Potts) Rohn.
Surviving relatives include a brother, Philip Rohn of Port Charlotte Florida and local cousins.
Arrangements are being completed at Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City.

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Herschell R. “Hersch” Hall, 95

Herschell R. “Hersch” Hall, 95, passed away Friday evening, July 30, 2010 at The Towne House Health Center in Fort Wayne, where he had been a resident for the past seven years.
He was born in Rush County, Indiana on July 29, 1915 to the late Roy and G. Hazel Allison Hall. Upon graduation from Milroy High School, Hersch married Norma Grocox. They were the parents of three children.

Hersch’s early years included working n the family farm, selling various products and life insurance. In 1952, he joined the sales force of Curtis 1000 Inc., a national printing company. A natural born salesman, he received top sales honors many times before retiring after 35 years of service.
Mr. Hall was united in marriage to Phyllis Keiser on April 1, 1950 in Indianapolis. They were the parents of one daughter. In 1952 they moved to Columbia City and resided there until moving to Fort Wayne in 1972.
Hersch was an active member of Trinity United Methodist Church in Columbia City and the Kiwanis Club, being a past president. He was a volunteer for the Fort Wayne Chamber of Commerce and sold many memberships with his positive energy and enthusiastic personality. As a result, he became the first person to be given the status of Honorary Lifetime Member of their Ambassadors Club.
In addition to Mr. Hall’s love for family, friends and sales work, he and Phyllis enjoyed his passion for boating on Lake Erie. They were members of Port Clinton Yacht Club for over 30 years. Their retirement time was spent in Port Clinton, Ohio and the winters were in Venice, Florida.
Mr. Hall was preceded in death by his wife, Phyllis in 2004, two brothers and a sister. His spirit leaves this earth to join the ages with love, respect and sadness of his four children, Robert (Mardell) Hall of Granger, Beverly (Paul) Means and Bonita (Glenn) Hardesty, both of Shelbyville and Kaye (Bryan) Carlson of Fort Wayne; 11 grandchildren; and 13 great-grandchildren.
Memorials can be made to the Covenant United Methodist Church in Fort Wayne where Hersch was a charter member. His family extends a warm thank you to the nurses, caregivers and staff at the Towne House and Parkview Hospice for their loving efforts in making his sometimes difficult life more comfortable during his last years.
A funeral service was held Friday, August 6, at Smith & Sons Funeral Home. Burial followed in Greenhill Cemetery, Columbia City.

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Teagyn Renee Hollenbaugh, stillborn

Teagyn Renee Hollenbaugh of Columbia City was stillborn at 7:56 a.m. on Thursday, July 29, 2010 at Parkview North Hospital, Fort Wayne, she was the daughter of Greg Earl and Traci Renee (Miller) Hollenbaugh.
Survivors include her parents of Columbia City; paternal grandparents, Terry and Roberta Hollenbaugh, South Whitley; maternal grandfather, Mark Miller, Van Wert, OH ; great grandparents, Max and Bonnie Hollenbaugh, Columbia City, Jean Myers, Fort Wayne, Robert and Betty Tracy, Grover Hill, OH. She is preceded in death by her maternal grandmother, Janet Mae Miller, maternal great grandparents, Ron and Carlotta Miller and 1 sister, Tayah Mae Hollenbaugh.
A private family graveside service was held Sunday afternoon at Oak Grove Cemetery, Columbia City with Pastor Steve Johnson of Oak Grove Church of God officiating. Funeral arrangements were entrusted to the staff of DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home, Columbia City.
Please visit www.demoneygrimes.com to send family condolences or sign the guest register book.

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Carrie V. Guyermelli, 72

Carrie V. Guyermelli, age 72, of Columbia City, IN passed away at 6:15 p.m. Sunday, August 1, 2010 at Provena Sacred Heart Nursing Home, Avilla, IN.
Born on January 21, 1938 in Fresno, CA, she was the daughter of Leon Carley and Molly (Barrington) Turner.
She lived in New Jersey before moving to Whitley County in June, 1980. She graduated from Fresno High School, Fresno, CA with the Class of 1955. On July 4, 1960 she married Paul M. Guyermelli in West Palm Beach, FL. She worked at Sprint Print, Trenton, New Jersey for 25 years. She was a member of the American Legion Auxiliary, Roanoke, Lakeview Club, Sigma Phi Kappa, Boys & Girl Scouts, West Point Church and First Church of God, Columbia City.
Survivors include her 4 children, Carol A. (Bill) Fausey of Columbia City, Paul E. Guyermelli of New Jersey, Mary D. (Bruce) Comer of Pittsburg, PA and Timothy M. Guyermelli of New Haven; 9 grandchildren; mother, Molly Turner of Fresno, CA; sister, Sheila Schafer of Fresno, CA. She was preceded in death by her father, Leon Carley and husband, Paul M. Guyermelli.
At the request of Mrs. Guyermelli, there will be no visitation or service. Arrangements were entrusted to DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home, 600 Countryside Drive, Columbia City. rimes Countryside Park Funeral Home, Columbia City.

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Willis J. Friskney, 86

Willis J. Friskney, 86, of Albion, passed away at 3:30 a.m. Sunday, August 1, 2010 at North Ridge Village Nursing & Rehabilitation Center, Albion. Born on June 22, 1924 in Noble County, he was the son of Samuel Archie and Clara Leona (Ott) Friskney.

He was a Green Township, Noble County resident his entire lifetime except from 1949-1956 when he lived in Whitley County. He attended Green School and graduated from Albion High School with the Class 1942. He served in the United States Army as Tech 5th Grade, 71st Signal Service Battalion from 1945-1946. On September 14, 1947, he married Margery L. Eubank at Sherman Street Church of God, Fort Wayne. He worked at Columbia Products, Dana Weatherhead as a tool and die maker where he retired in 1986. He also was a general farmer. He was a member of Big Lake Church of God, where he was a faithful usher, greeter and volunteered at the church for many years. In the past, he enjoyed golf with a group in Goblesville from Dana Weatherhead and he also was an avid gardener and loved to do woodworking.
Survivors include his wife of 62 years, Margery L. Friskney of Albion; 5 children, Sherrill (James) Zumbrun of Albion, Ron Friskney of Tecumseh, MI, Vicki (Rick) Waterson of Albion, Mark (A.J. Calkins) Friskney, Fort Wayne and Marna (Bob) Amber of Churubusco; 12 grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren, brother, Merle W. "Bud" Friskney of Arvada, CO; sister, Martha Jane Johnson of Churubusco, 2 sisters-in-law, Joylene Friskney of St. Paul, MN and Jean Alexander, Carmel, IN. He was preceded in death by his parents, 3 brothers, John, James, Boyd Friskney and brother-in-law, Rod Johnson and 3 sisters-in-law, Fay, Esther and Iva Friskney.
Visitation is 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, August 4, 2010 at DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home, 600 Countryside Drive, Columbia City. Funeral service will be at the funeral home on Thursday, August 5, 2010 at 10:00 a.m. with Pastor J. Phillip Blake former pastor of Big Lake Church of God and Pastor Tim Grable of Sugar Grove Church of God, Churubusco officiating. Burial will follow at Christian Chapel Cemetery, Merriam, with graveside military rites conducted by the Whitley County Korean War Veteran's Honor Guard. Memorials may be given in memory of Mr. Friskney to Big Lake Church of God, with envelopes available through the funeral home.

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Roma Joann Cox, 74

Roma Joann Cox, 74, of Columbia City passed away at 1:31 p.m. Sunday, August 1, 2010 after a brief illness, at Lutheran Hospital of Indiana, Fort Wayne. Born on July 19, 1936 in Whitley County she was the daughter of Joseph and Alice Eloise (Foster) Snider, Jr.
Joann has spent her lifetime in Whitley County and graduated from Jefferson Center High School with the Class of 1954. She married Paul E. Cox on April 17, 1955 at the Oak Grove Church of God, Columbia City. She worked for Whitley County Consolidated Schools as a cook for 13 years and also was a homemaker. She was a member of Willing 20's Home Extension Club.
Survivors include her husband for 55 years, Paul E. Cox of Columbia City; 5 children including Morris Cox, Dan (Collene) Cox, Mary Ann (Brent Schrader) McIntosh, Andrew "Andy" (Betty) Cox and Dean (Connie) Cox all of Columbia City; 14 grandchildren, 17 great grandchildren; 1 brother, Charles Duane (Millie) Snider of Columbia City and her twin sister, Joyce Douglas of Churubusco. She was preceded in death by her parents and sister, Nancy Snider.
Visitation will be held from 2-4 pm and 6-8 pm Wednesday, August 4, 2010 and from 1-2 pm Thursday, August 5, 2010 at DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home, 600 Countryside Drive, Columbia City. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 pm Thursday, August 5, 2010 at the funeral home with Rev. Steve Wagner officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Grove Cemetery, Columbia City. Memorial bequests may be given in Mrs. Cox's memory to the donor's choice of charity.

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Edison D. Line, 75

Edison D. Line, 75, of Columbia City, died Friday evening, July 30, 2010 at his home. He had been in failing health.

He was born January 15, 1935 in Whitley County, Indiana a son of Harley L. and Goldie I. (Sell) Line. His formative years were spent in Columbia City. He graduated from Columbia City High School.
On June 4, 1955 he was united in marriage to Nancy L. Deutsch. They made their home in Columbia City before moved to Crooked Lake. In 1969 they moved to Washington Township until 1985 when they moved to their present home in Columbia Township. Mrs. Line died August 20, 2009.
He served in the United States Army from 1959 until his honorable discharge in 1961.
In 1995 he retired from General Electric with over 30 years of service.
He attended Oak Grove Church of God, was a former Jaycee and a former member of Columbia City Lions Club.
Surviving relatives include two sons, Darin Line of Berne and Mark (Rhonda) Line of Crown Point; and five grandchildren, Doug Line, Amanda Line, Austin Line, Collin Raiser and Luke Raiser.
In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by two infant sons, Michael Duane Line and Craig Alan Line; and two brothers, Kenneth L. Line and Gerald E. Line.
The funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City. The burial will be in Oak Grove Cemetery. The visitation will be from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home.
Preferred memorials are to Oak Grove Church of God or Humane Society of Whitley County.

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Phyllis E. Fricke, 95

Phyllis E. Fricke, 95, of South Whitley, died Friday morning, July 30, 2010 peacefully in her sleep at home.
She was born February 5, 1915 in Whitley County, Indiana a daughter of Garth and Jessie (Bayman) Kyler. She graduated from Larwill High School and International Business College.

On November 23, 1939 she married Waldemar H. Fricke. Mr. Fricke died June 5, 1971.
She worked in Fort Wayne as a bookkeeper until 1945, when she and her husband moved to Whitley County to raise their family and join the Kyler dairy farming business. From 1959 until 1984 she was a bookkeeper for Pierceton Trucking Company and South Whitley Trucking Company. After retirement, she volunteered in the gift shop at Whitley County Memorial Hospital.
She was a member of Collamer Christian Church where she played organ and piano for many years. Next to her family, music was her greatest love.
Her interest in history led to researching her family genealogy. She published a book about her family in 1983 called “The Better To Know You”. She was a member of Colonial Dames, Daughter of the American Revolution and Delta Theta Tau Sorority.
Survivors include her daughters, Janie (Jeff Steele) Fricke of Dallas, Texas and Julia Robinson of South Whitley; six grandchildren; and four great grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, sister, Jean Leifer; a son, Norman Fricke; and a grandson, John Fricke.
The graveside service was Sunday, August 1, 2010, at Booneville Cemetery with Pastor David Wagoner officiating.
Preferred memorials are to Collamer Christian Church or Parkview Home Health & Hospice.
Arrangements are by Smith & Sons Miller Chapel, South Whitley.

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Fred A. Riddle, 58

Fred A. Riddle, 58, of Noble Township, Noble County, died Thursday evening, July 29, 2010 at his home.

He was born January 27, 1952 in Columbia City, Indiana a son of Stanley James and Mary Catherine (Cox) Riddle. A lifelong resident of Noble Township, he graduated from Central Noble High School.
On November 27, 1976 he was united in marriage to Mariann Metzger.
In addition to farming, he drove truck for North American Van Lines and later Salesman Trucking.
He was very active and supportive of St. Matthews United Methodist Church and its many activities, Wolf Lake Lions Club, Mizpah Shrine and Christian Chapel Cemetery Association Board. He was an associate of Whitley County Soil & Water Conservation District, assisted with Boy Scouts of America and a member of Churubusco Lodge #515 F. & A. M. He supported and enjoyed attending the Wolf Lake Alumni Class Reunions, Whitley County 4-H Fair & its museum, Wolf Lake Onion Days, Sugar Grove Church of God ice cream socials, Central Noble F.F.A. and his childrens' various activities.
Surviving relatives include his wife, Mariann; three children, Julie Riddle, Kevin Riddle and Jody Riddle; and a brother, John (Sharon) Riddle, all of Albion.
He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Roy Riddle.
The funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday at Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City. The burial will be in Christian Chapel Cemetery, Merriam.
Preferred memorials are to St. Matthews United Methodist Church or Boy Scouts of America.

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Kevin K. Bohde, 51

Kevin K. Bohde, 51, of Fort Wayne, died suddenly on Monday, July 26, 2010.

"He was a special person. He gave of himself unconditionally to anyone. He lived for his family to the end. He was a wonderful husband and father."
He was employed as a electrical technician at USSI, Columbia City for several years.
Surviving are his wife, Sheryl Bohde; daughter, Ryan Staples; sons, Kyle Bohde and Wade Bohde; brother, Richard and Linda Bohde, Tom Bohde, Jim Bohde, and Tim and Maggie Bohde; sister, Michele Dickerson; and brother, Randy Bohde. He was preceded in death by his parents, Richard and Tharon Bohde; brother, Jerry Bohde; nephew, Jay Bohde.
A private celebration of life will be held. Arrangements by Midwest Funeral Chapel & Cremation Society, Inc.

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Memorials

August 30, 2010