Waters Funeral Home Obituaries

THELMA M. THOMAS

2012-01-23T12:48:00.001-08:00

HARTFORD CITY, INDIANA

Thelma M. Thomas, 85, passed away at 3:15 a.m. Sunday, January 22, 2012 at University Nursing Center, Upland.

She was born July 8, 1926 in Marion to Homer and Florence (Miller) Ross and resided most of her life in Blackford County. Thelma graduated from Roll High School in 1944 and then from the Marion School of Cosmetology. She was a homemaker and operated the Poplar Beauty Shop for several years.

Thelma married Billy R. Thomas on September 11, 1974 in Hartford City. He survives.

Mrs. Thomas was a member of the Zion Lutheran Church, D.A.V. Auxiliary, and volunteered at the Marion VA Hospital.

Survivors include her husband, Bill Thomas, Hartford City; a son, Beni Clevenger, Nashville, Indiana; two brothers, Dale (Joy) Ross, Gas City and Roscoe (Janet) Ross, Montpelier; two grandchildren and two great-grandchildren; also three step-children, two step-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, three brothers and four sisters.

Funeral services will be conducted at 11 a.m. Thursday, January 26 in Zion Lutheran Church with Pastor David Fleener officiating. Burial will be a private service at Gardens of Memory.

Friends may call at the Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City from 4-7 p.m. Wednesday, January 25 and one hour prior to the service at the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Zion Lutheran Church, 308 S. Monroe St., Hartford City 47348.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com.

ADA JANE SCHWARZKOPF

2011-12-30T12:12:00.000-08:00

Lafayette, Indiana

Ada Jane Schwarzkopf, 82, passed away December 29, 2011 in Regency Place, Lafayette.

Ada was born May 12, 1929 in Hartford City, the daughter of Henry and Edna (Dixon) Markin. A 1947 graduate of Hartford City High School, she married David Richard “Dick” Schwarzkopf on September 28, 1950 in Hartford City. She had resided in Lafayette since 1954.

A homemaker, Ada and Dick enjoyed traveling.

Surviving are: her husband, David “Dick”; three daughters, Barbara (Steve) Franklin, Lafayette, Beth Schwarzkopf, West Lafayette, and Belinda Schwarzkopf, Oxford, IN; two sisters, Betty (Clarence) Atkinson, Kentucky and Ellen Furnish, Indianapolis; four grandchildren, Kari Lee, Justin Fisher, William and Wyatt Mantle and a great-grandchild, Sierra Lee.

She was preceded in death by her parents and five sisters.

Funeral services will be conducted at 1 p.m. Tuesday, January 3, 2012 in Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City with Pastor Mark Schwarzkopf officiating. Burial will follow in Gardens of Memory, Muncie.

Friends may call at Waters Funeral Home from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesday.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials to the American Cancer Society or American Diabetes Association with envelopes available at the funeral home.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com.

DIXIE A. CHARNLEY

2011-11-17T11:31:00.001-08:00

HARTFORD CITY, IN

Dixie A. Charnley, 64, passed away Tuesday, November 15, 2011 at IU Health Blackford Hospital after an extended illness.

She was born August 13, 1947 in Leon, Kentucky, the daughter of John and Edna (Artist) King. A resident of Hartford City most of her life, she married Frederick (Rick) Charnley on November 7, 1964 in Hartford City.

A homemaker, she was a member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church.

Survivors include her husband, Rick; a daughter, Rhonda (Jim) Moore, Hartford City; a son, Rick (Teri) Charnley, Hartford City; a brother, Phil King, Florida; a sister, Bernice Carter, Olive Hill, Kentucky; 5 grandchildren, Jamie, Ryan, Rachel Moore, Evan and Kaiden Charnley; her mother-in-law, Rita Charnley, Hartford City.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by brothers Clayton, Vernon, and Marion King , sisters, Juanita Colegrove, Oretha Hall, Betty King, and father-in-law Ross Charnley.

A Memorial Mass will be celebrated by Father Dave Newton at 10 a.m. Friday at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, 209 S. Spring St., Hartford City. Friends may visit the family after 9 a.m. Friday at the church.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests masses to the church or The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research, Church Street Station, P.O. Box 780, New York, NY 10008-0780.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com.

BRIAN J. FETTIG

2011-11-04T11:44:00.000-07:00

JOSHUA, TEXAS

Brian J. Fettig, 73, former Hartford City resident, passed away November 2, 2011 at his home in Joshua, Texas.

He was born December 24, 1937 in Elwood, Indiana, the son of Bernard and Genevieve (Ross) Fettig. He was a 1956 graduate of Roll High School and married Marilyn Sue Jones in Hartford City on May 23, 1959.

Brian had been associated with the Fettig Canning Company, Elwood, and was a former Blackford County farmer prior to moving to Texas in 1984. Mr. Fettig was plant manager for Indicom Buildings, Inc. in Texas.

He was a member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, Hartford City.

Surviving are: his wife, Marilyn Sue; his children, Mary Jo (Tom) Jung, Granbury, TX, Angela Ryan, Joshua, TX, Brenda (Bruce) Winder, Palmer, Alaska and Neil (Susan) Fettig, Burleson, TX; 2 brothers, Ross (Mary Ann) Fettig, Sandborn, IN and Ted (Muriel) Fettig, Hartford City; brother-in-law, Merrill Rhodes, Hartford City; 11 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren.

Brian was preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Jean Ann Rhodes.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by Father Dave Newton at 10 a.m. Monday, November 7, 2011 in St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, 209 S. Spring St., Hartford City. Burial will follow in Hartford City Cemetery.

Friends may call at the Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City from 1-4 p.m. Sunday and 9-9:30 a.m. Monday. A Christian Wake Service will be held at 1 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home.

Memorials may be made to Hartford City Cemetery, P.O. 66, Hartford City, IN 47348.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com.

G. MAXINE ADKINS

2011-11-03T12:22:00.000-07:00

HARTFORD CITY, IN

G. Maxine Adkins, 78, passed away Thursday, November 03, 2011, at Miller’s Merry Manor, Hartford City.

She was born May 21, 1933 to George Melvin and Nellie (Jordan) Hall in Carter County, Kentucky and lived in Hartford City most of her life. Maxine married George W. Adkins, Sr. on May 16, 1950 in Carter County, Kentucky. His death occurred November 11, 2009.

Maxine was a member of the Apostolic Tabernacle, Hartford City. A homemaker, she had also worked at Sinclair Glass.

Survivors include: three daughters, Kathie (Steve) Reese, Greenfield ; Geral (Larry) Berry, and Janet (Jim) Lytle, both of Hartford City; two sons, George W. (Julie) Adkins, Jr., Dunkirk and John E. (Michelle) Adkins, Middletown, Florida; two brothers, Lloyd Kenneth (Diane) Hall, Montpelier and George Franklin (Betty) Hall, Trenton; 18 grandchildren, 37 great-grandchildren and 4 great-great-grandchildren.

Maxine was preceded in death by four brothers, John M. Hall, Ralph Hall, Charles Hall and George Melvin Hall and four sisters, Anna Hess, Beulah Litteral, Geraldine Hess and Norma Allen.

Funeral services will be at 1:00 p.m. Tuesday, November 8 in Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City. Burial will follow in Hartford City Cemetery.

Friends may call at the funeral home from 4:00-8:00 p.m. Monday and one hour prior to services on Tuesday.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com.

JAMES A. HERBAUGH

2011-10-24T10:32:00.000-07:00

HARTFORD CITY, INDIANA

James (Jim) Abram Herbaugh, 77, died Friday, October 21, 2011 in Westminster Village, Muncie.

He was born on August 16, 1934 in Hartford City to James & MaryEllen Herbaugh. Jim attended Holy Family Grade School in Hartford City and graduated from Hartford City High School in 1952. After high school Jim proudly attended the University of Notre Dame and graduated in 1956 with a degree in Aeronautical Engineering.

Jim was in the Air Force from 1957-1959. He worked for Pratt Whitney in Florida for a few years and was part of the Snark Missile Project. Jim started working for TRW in the mid 1960’s and worked there until he retired in 1998. While working for TRW Jim worked in Houston, TX as part of the Apollo project, and he was credited with developing the Guidance System Limb of Apollo Lunar Module that landed on the moon.

Jim moved his family to Southern California in the early 70’s and settled in Torrance. He was instrumental in establishing the Southwood Baseball Little League and was always supportive of his children playing sports, specifically AYSO Soccer, in the South Bay. Jim had a large circle of friends and he enjoyed the wine tasting group and the annual trips to Yosemite. Jim was a member of both St. Lawrence Martyr & St. James Parish’s in Redondo Beach, and he was a long time member of the Knights of Columbus.

He is survived by his children; James Herbaugh (Paula) and William (Billy) Herbaugh, both of Southern California; Lynne Catrow (Dan) of Sparks, NV; grandchildren, Ben, Ashley, Ian & Connor; sisters Ann (Herbaugh) Dawson of Duluth, MN and Carol (Herbaugh) O’Rourke (Robert) of Hartford City, IN and many nieces and nephews.

Jim was preceded in death by his wife, Wilna Browning Herbaugh, and his parents.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, October 26 in St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, 209 S. Spring St., Hartford City with Father Dave Newton, Celebrant. Burial will follow in Hartford City Cemetery.

Friends may call from 4 – 7 p.m. Tuesday, October 25 at Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St. and from 9 – 9:30 a.m. on Wednesday. A Christian Wake Service will be at 4 p.m. Tuesday.

Memorials may be made in the form of masses to the church.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com.

GRACE ELLEN HAWK

2011-10-05T12:29:00.000-07:00

Montpelier, Indiana

Grace Ellen Hawk, 103, passed away Tuesday, October 4, 2011 at Miller’s Merry Manor, Hartford City.

She was born February 20, 1908 in Ohio, the daughter of Franklin and Mary (Ellison) Fetty and had resided in Montpelier most of her life. Her marriage to Orval William Hawk occurred on August 30, 1923. He died October 23, 1976.

A homemaker, she had also worked at Montpelier Glove Factory for 35 years, retiring in 1971.

Grace was a member of Blackford Baptist Temple.

Surviving are: 2 sons, Bill (Joyce) Hawk, Dick Hawk; 19 grandchildren, 36 great-grandchildren and 32 great-great-grandchildren.

In addition to her husband and parents, she was preceded in death by 4 sons, Gene, Gerald, Ronnie, and Robert Orval Hawk, 2 grandchildren, Lori and Terri Hawk, 2 great-grandchildren, Sean Edwards and Scotty Minnick. The last member of her family, she was also preceded in death by 14 brothers and sisters.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, October 8 in Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City. Burial will follow in Woodlawn Cemetery, Montpelier.

Friends may call at Waters Funeral Home from 9 – 11 a.m. Saturday.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com.

JULIE L. PRYOR

2011-09-24T13:09:00.000-07:00

HARTFORD CITY, INDIANA

Julie L. Pryor, 49, passed away unexpectedly, Friday, September 23, 2011 at her residence.

She was born March 31, 1962 in Hartford City to Donald D. and Barbara A. (Snyder) Blakley and attended Hartford City schools. She married Jack Pryor on April 6, 1980.

A homemaker, Julie had worked at BRC in Montpelier, and Clark Oil in Hartford City. She was a member of the Full Gospel Lighthouse Tabernacle, Dunkirk.

Survivors include her husband, Jack; three daughters, Christina (Vincent) Schulz, Manchester, Ohio, Terri (David) Fox, Markleville and Carrie (Carl, Jr.) Turner, Hartford City; a brother, Robert (Heidi) Blakley; three sisters, Edie (Jeff) Hall, Sharon Smith, and Lisa (Mark) Hall, all of Hartford City; and two grandchildren, Vincent “Trey” Schulz III and Shelby Turner.

She was preceded in death by her father on Sept. 3, 1994 and her mother, March 31, 1997.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, September 28 at Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City with Rev. Bobby Thomas officiating. Burial will follow in Hartford City Cemetery.

Friends may call from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. Tuesday, September 27 and from noon – 2:00 p.m. Wednesday.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com.

RONNIE RAY SHINKLE

2011-09-24T13:08:00.000-07:00

Muncie, Indiana

Ronnie Ray Shinkle, 60, died Friday, September 23, 2011 at the V. A. Northern Indiana Health Care System, Fort Wayne.

He was born May 8, 1951 in Anderson, Indiana to Earl A. and Crystal Maybelle (Whetzel) Shinkle. He was a 1970 graduate for Wapahani High School and Manatee Community College. Ronnie was an Army veteran of the Vietnam War, serving from 1971-1973.

A retired railroader, he had also worked in the florist industry for 20 years.

He was a member of the American Legion in Bridge City, Texas, and the Disabled American Veterans.

Survivors include: a son, Jeff (Michele) Harry, Parker City, a daughter, Stacie (friend, Jason) Shinkle, Bradenton, Florida; a sister, Debbie (Larry) McDonald, Bradenton, Florida; two brothers, Alvin (Leann) Shinkle, Moab, Utah and James Kenneth Shinkle, Muncie; step-brother, David (Debbie) McUne, Anderson, step-sisters, Janice (Jerry) Osborne, Saltello, Tennessee, Cecelia (Donnie) Hardin, Germantown, Kentucky and Betty Ehrhart (best friend) and Cat Cain, both of Hartford City; five grandchildren, Aydin and Andrew Shinkle, Audri, Clayton and Stefan Harry; and one great-grandson, Jackson Starr; and three special friends, Mike Brotherton, Danny Mauer and Scott Kramer.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a step-brother, Marvin McUne.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, September 27 in Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City. Burial will follow in the Marion National Cemetery.

Friends may call from 9:00 – 11:00 a.m. Tuesday at the funeral home.

Memorials may be made to Disabled American Veterans.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com.

BRANTLEY MICHAEL WEAVER

2011-09-05T12:22:00.000-07:00

GASTON, INDIANA

Brantley Michael Weaver, 41, rural Gaston, slipped away peacefully to the arms of his Lord Sunday, September 4, 2011.

He was born in Hartford City on March 6, 1970 to Michael Jon and Betty (Norton) Weaver. A life resident of this area, he was a 1989 graduate of Blackford High School.

A truck driver, he had owned & operated his own business.

Surviving are: his parents, Betty (Joe) Logan, Hartford City and Michael (Connie) Weaver, Brandon, Mississippi; his companion, Debbie Hicks; children, twin daughters, Nicole and Rachelle Weaver, both of Hartford City, David Hicks (companion, Christa), Bluffton, and Ashley Hicks (companion, Nate Pierce), Clearwater, Florida; a sister, Cheryl (Tim) Coffey, New Castle; two grandchildren, Karmen Pierce and Cierah Hicks; uncles, Robert Norton, Mike (Judy) Norton, Rick (Pam) Weaver, Randy Weaver, Mark (Beth) Weaver; aunts, Barb (Junior) Mills, Rosylea (Jerry) Hummer, Rosella (Ted) Bales, Joette (Curt) Flanagan, and two nieces, one nephew and many cousins.

He was preceded in death by grandparents, Rosylean and Arthur Norton, John and Alta Weaver, and Marie Logan-Marcum, also two aunts, Alice Norton and Rosemary Seekell and two uncles, James and Joseph Norton.

Funeral services will be at 1:00 p.m. Thursday, September 8 in Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St. Burial will follow in Hartford City Cemetery.

Friends may call at the funeral home from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Thursday.

Memorials may be sent to American Heart Association or American Lung Association.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com.

LEO JEFFRIES

2011-08-31T07:09:00.000-07:00

Hartford City, Indiana

Leo Jeffries, prominent Hartford City businessman, died at 11:54 p.m. Monday, August 29 in I. U. Blackford Community Hospital Emergency Room.

He was born July 25, 1927 in Dixon, Missouri to William Zebedee and Nellie Jane (McCoy) Jeffries and moved to Hartford City as a youth. Leo served in the U. S. Army during W. W. II and later married Nellie Jean Marker in Selma.

Leo worked at Schorey’s Men’s Wear, then purchased the business and operated it as Leo’s Men’s Wear for 30 years.

He was a member of Trinity United Methodist Church and started the Cowboy Church seven years ago. He was also a member of the Hartford City Rotary Club for over 50 years.

Surviving are his wife of 63 years, Jean; one son, David (Janel) Jeffries, Indianapolis; one brother, Stan Jeffries, Hartford City; two grandchildren, Matthew Jeffries and Megan Butts; and two great-grandchildren, Kameron and Kaleigh Butts.

He was preceded in death by one son, Randy, one sister, Vertrice Morgan, and four brothers, Warren, Raymond, Lowell and Ralph Jeffries.

Funeral services will be at Trinity U. M. Church, 303 N. Walnut St., Hartford City at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, September 3 with Pastor Dustin Jones and Rev. John Parks officiating. Burial will follow in Hartford City Cemetery.

Friends may call at the Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Friday and one hour prior to services Saturday at the church.

Memorials may be directed to the Trinity United Methodist Church.

Online condolences may be directed to the family at: watersfuneralhomes.com.

DALE HUTSON

2011-08-24T05:44:00.000-07:00

Hartford City, Indiana

Larry Dale Hutson, 72, of rural Hartford City, died Sunday morning, August 21, 2011 at St. Vincent Hospital, Indianapolis.

A native of Madison County, he was born December 22, 1938 to Carl Fredrick and Margaret (Girton) Hutson and was a veteran of the U. S. Army, serving from 1961-63.

Dale married Laura Wittrock on June 24, 1961 at Bealls Chapel, rural Madison County, and moved to Blackford County in 1970.

He was employed over the years by Aroma Elevator, Frankton Mill, Matthews Feed & Grain, and later Fishel Corporation, in addition to farming.

Dale was a member of Pleasant Grove United Methodist Church, Shamrock Lakes.

He is survived by his wife, Laura; sons, Danny (Miggin), Summitville and David (Julie), Upland; six grandchildren, Michael, Christina, Miranda, Brendan, Hayley and Danyelle Hutson. His brother, Dennis, preceded him in death in 2007.

Funeral services will be at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, August 25 in Pleasant Grove U. M. Church, Blackford County Road 300 S and Angling Pike. Burial with military rites by Cicero American Legion Post 341 will be at 3:00 p.m. Thursday at Carey Cemetery, North of Strawtown.

Visitation will be Wednesday, August 24, from 2:00 – 8:00 p.m. in Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City and 9:30 – 11:00 Thursday at the church.

Memorials may be made to: St. Vincent’s Foundation, Solid Organ Transplant Fund, 8402 Harcourt Rd., Ste 210, Indianapolis, IN 46240.

Online condolences may be directed to the family at watersfuneralhomes.com.

HUGH R. SCOTT

2011-08-22T05:41:00.000-07:00

Hartford City, IN

Hugh R. Scott, 86, passed away Saturday, August 20, 2011 at Heritage Pointe, Warren.

A Hartford City native, he was born May 24, 1925 to Hugh E. and Lois B. (Rawlings) Scott and was a 1942 graduate of Hartford City High School. Hugh also graduated from Indiana Business College.

He married Marilyn Blankenbeker in Hartford City on April 20, 1968 and she survives.
Hugh was a lifetime resident of Hartford City, retiring from Fulton Glass Company, as Secretary-Treasurer. In May of 2010 he and his wife moved to Heritage Pointe in Warren, Indiana

Hugh loved to travel and had been to all fifty states, as well as several foreign countries. An avid racing fan, he especially enjoyed the Indianapolis 500. He was an active and longtime member of the Zion Lutheran Church, Hartford City, the Elks Lodge #625, the Blackford County Historical Society and the Hartford City Cemetery Association. He also served on the Blackford County Council.

In addition to his wife, Marilyn, one brother, Allan Scott, Hartford City survives. Also surviving are a sister-in-law, Lois Deskewies of Tennessee and several nieces and nephews. One brother, Jerry Scott is deceased.

Funeral Services will be conducted at 11:00 A.M. Wednesday, Aug. 24th, in Zion Lutheran Church, 308 S. Monroe St., Hartford City, with Pastor David Fleener officiating. Burial will follow the service at Hartford City Cemetery.

Visitation will be Tuesday, August 23 from 4:00 – 8:00 P.M. at Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City and Wednesday from 10 – 11:00 A.M. at the church.

Memorials may be made to the Zion Lutheran Church, or the Hartford City Cemetery Association, with envelopes available at the funeral home.

Online condolences may be directed to the family at watersfuneralhomes.com.

HELEN E. HODGES

2011-08-04T10:50:00.000-07:00

HARTFORD CITY, IN

Helen Elizabeth Hodges, 95, passed away Tuesday, August 2, 2011 at her home.

The daughter of John S. and Ann Crawford, she was born February 7, 1916 in Ludington, Michigan. She graduated from St. Francis Nursing School in Evanston, Illinois and worked as a private duty nurse. On August 11, 1939, she married F. Robert Hodges.

A resident of Hartford City since 1966, Helen was active in the community, was manager of Sinclair Glass Store, and was a member of Psi Iota Xi Sorority, Alpha Mu Chapter.

Survivors include: four sons, Fredrick Robert Hodges, Jr., Chicago, Lee S. Hodges, Sun City, Arizona, William F. Hodges, Fulton, Texas, and David C. Hodges, Hartford City; one daughter, Joyce A. Busscher, Golf, Illinois; eight grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, one grandchild, a brother, Jack Crawford and sister, Hazel Crawford.

Funeral services will be held at 1:30 p.m. August 9 in Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City with Father Keith Hosey officiating. Entombment will follow at Gardens of Memory, Muncie.

Friends may call from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. Monday, August 8 at the funeral home.

Memorials may be directed to: Psi Iota Xi Sorority, Blackford County Animal Shelter, or Family Hospice & Palliative Care.

Online condolences may be directed to the family at watersfuneralhomes.com

George M. Reidy, 81

2011-07-20T18:02:00.000-07:00

HARTFORD CITY, IN

George M. Reidy, 81, prominent Hartford City industrialist, passed away Tuesday, July 19, 2011 at IU Health Blackford Community Hospital, while in the company of his loving family.

A native and life long resident of Hartford City, he was born April 29, 1930 to Timothy Patrick and Helen Marie(Rapp) Reidy. George graduated from Hartford City High School in 1947, then the University of Notre Dame in 1952.

George served his country in the U.S. Navy, aboard the U.S.S. Higbee, as a gunnery officer during the Korean conflict, returning to Hartford City to marry Karleen O’Connell, February 12, 1955.

Mr. Reidy was the President of Hartford Glass Company, founded by his father in 1939. A member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, he was a Fourth Degree Knight of Columbus of Emil A. Schweier council #1639, the AMVETS, a Lifetime member of the American Legion Post #159 and was a founding member of the Blackford County Humane Society.

He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Karleen; Children; Michael (Carma) Reidy, Pete(Ruth) Reidy, Tom Reidy, Colleen (Greg) Dickey, Dave (Kim) Reidy, Maureen Hall, Helen (Jon)Kelley and Christopher (Mary Jo)Reidy. 29 grandchildren, three great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

Preceding him in death are his parents; sister, Barbara Breisch; brothers, Timothy Patrick Reidy II and Richard K. Reidy.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, July 23, 2011 in St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, 209 S. Spring St., with Rev. David J. Newton as celebrant. Burial will follow, with military graveside rites by the Dunkirk American Legion in the Hartford City Cemetery.

Friends may call at Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City, from 1 – 4 & 6 – 8 p.m. Friday, July 22 and 9:00 to 9:40 a.m. Saturday. The Christian wake service will begin at 1:00 p.m. on Friday.

Memorials may be made in the form of masses to the church, or to the Blackford County Animal Shelter c/o Dr. G.O. Parks, 1905 W. Water St., Hartford City, IN 47348.

Online condolences may be directed to the family at watersfuneralhomes.com.

BRENDA (ERVIN) HOLTZLEITER FREEMAN

2011-07-06T15:46:00.000-07:00

Hartford City, Indiana

Brenda K. (Ervin) Holtzleiter Freeman, 49, died Sunday morning, July 3, at her home after a short, but valiant battle with cancer.

She was born in Marion on June 23, 1962, the daughter of John R. and Bonnie J. (Brammer) Ervin. Brenda graduated from Blackford High School in 1981 and was a life resident of the area. She married Jacob Freeman in Marion on February 20, 1997.

She was employed by Pierce Companies, Upland, for 24 years, where she had belonged to the RDWSU Unit D Union.

Survivors include her husband, Jacob Freeman; step-children, Jacob Hess, Tylor Freeman and Tabitha Hess; brother, Joe (Cindy) Ervin, Hartford City; sisters, Charlene Fischer, Salem, VA and Deb Townsend, Montpelier; nieces and nephews, Jeremy Bond, Cody Fischer, Jared Ervin, Heather Ervin, Amanda Ervin, Amy Sutton and Jessie Whitesell.

She was preceded in death by her father, John Robert Ervin, January 10, 2010, and her mother, Bonnie J. Ervin, November 3, 1997.

Funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m. Friday, July 8 in Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City, with Pastor Dave Morris officiating. Burial will follow at Gardens of Memory, Muncie.

Friends may call from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. Thursday, July 7 at the funeral home.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com.

IMOGENE CAPPER

2011-06-30T07:11:00.000-07:00

Hartford City, IN

Imogene Capper, 84, passed away June 28, 2011 at I. U. Health Ball Memorial Hospital, Muncie.

She was born May 7, 1927 in Byrdstown, Tennessee, the daughter of Ephriam and Juda (Pryor) Walker. Imogene married James Capper on December 8, 1946 in Lafayette, Indiana. His death occurred March 20, 1994.

A homemaker, she was a member of the Amvets Auxiliary, American Legion Auxiliary and Borg Warner Sympathy Club.

Surviving are: two daughters, Diane Abel, Montpelier and Lois (George) Hall, Hartford City; three sons, Terry (Teresa) Capper, James Capper, both of Hartford City and Greg Capper, Liberty Center; 12 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren and 3 great-great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, a son, Steve, 6 brothers and 5 sisters.

Funeral services will be conducted at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, July 2 in Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City with Rev. Bobby Thomas officiating. Burial will follow in Gardens of Memory, Muncie.

Friends may call at the funeral home from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. Friday and after 10:00 a.m. Saturday.

Memorials may be made to the Blackford Community Foundation, P.O. Box 327, Hartford City, Indiana 47348.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com.

KYLE W. SMELSER

2011-06-28T15:58:00.000-07:00

HARTFORD CITY, INDIANA

Kyle W. Smelser, 26, died at 6:46 p.m. Sunday, June 26, 2011 at I. U. Health Blackford Hospital.

He was born August 6, 1984 in Muncie, the son of Darrell and Leanna (Smith) Smelser and was a life resident of Blackford County.

A sweet and gentle man, he was well-loved by family and friends alike. He enjoyed playing guitar, studying history, hunting and guns, golfing and professional football, especially the Colts.

Kyle is survived by his parents, Darrell and Leanna Smelser, Hartford City; a sister, Sarah Smelser, Hartford City; four uncles, Tom (Linda) Smelser, Jon (Leanna) Smith, Richard (Sherry) Smith and Gary Smith; six aunts, June (Ron) Storms, Betty (Wayne) Walston, Lois (Jerry) McIntire, Christine (Dave) Kilty, Patricia (Dave) Seymour and Kathy Smith; also several cousins and a close friend, Ryan Carney.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, James A. and Naomi Smith and Albert and Martha Smelser, and an uncle, Dale Smith.

Funeral services will be conducted at 10 a.m. Friday, July 1 in Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City with Pastor Ron Storms presiding. Burial will follow in Beech Grove Cemetery, Muncie.

Friends may call from 2 - 4 and 6 - 8 p.m. Thursday, June 30 at the funeral home and one hour prior to the service on Friday.

Memorials may be made to the American Heart Fund, American Cancer Fund or to the family.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com

CLYDE R. EHRHART

2011-06-09T21:03:00.000-07:00

Hartford City, IN

Clyde R. Ehrhart, 70, passed away, Wednesday, June 8, 2011 at his home.

One of four sons of Clarence M. and Pauline (Williams) Ehrhart, Clyde was born on March 23, 1941 in Indianapolis. He graduated from Jefferson Township High School, Upland, Indiana, in 1959.

Clyde married Betty (Bear) McUne on September 1, 1974. He worked for BorgWarner for 31 years retiring in 1990. Clyde was a member of the Local #287 and also Union Steward for 12 years.

Mr. Ehrhart lived in the Hartford City area for nearly 40 years and was a well known musician in various bands and also the band Country Echoes, where he played lead guitar and sang, along with his wife, Betty, for many years.

He is survived by his loving wife of 36 years, Betty (Bear) Ehrhart, two daughters, Kathy Curtis (husband, Chuck), Muncie, and Juanita Hazelbaker (husband, Doug), Muncie, five grandchildren: Jason Montgomery (wife, Amanda), Barry Montgomery, Nicole Conner (husband Bert), Michelle McIntire (husband, Steve), and Angie Carrier (husband, Brian), three great-grandchildren: Alexander Montgomery, Angelina Carrier, and Skyler McIntire, a sister-in-law, Flo Ehrhart, of Hartford City, as well as several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Clarence and Pauline Ehrhart, he was preceded in death by three brothers: Carl, Wallace, Bill, and a nephew, Paul Ehrhart.

Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 am Saturday, June 11, 2011 in the Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City, Indiana, with Rev. Howard “Whitey” Fights presiding. Burial will follow at Union Cemetery, Eaton.

Friends may call at the funeral home on Friday, June 10, from 4:00 to 8:00 pm, and one hour prior to services Saturday.

Memorials may be made in his name to: Ball Memorial Hospice, 2401 W. University Ave. Muncie, IN 47303.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com

LEROY EARL “SI” CHENEY

2011-06-03T10:24:00.000-07:00

LeRoy Earl “Si” Cheney, 95, died Thursday morning, June 2, in I. U. Health Blackford Community Hospital.

He was born in Hartford City on January 1, 1916 to L. Ernest and Ethel (McDermit) Cheney. Si graduated from Hartford City High School in 1934 and married Georgia Shreve on October 14, 1940 in Anderson. Her death occurred on March 18, 1999.

A veteran of the U. S. Army, serving in WW II, he was a member of Amvets #23, American Legion Post #159, Elks Lodge #625 and the Moose Lodge.

Si was employed at Delco Remy, Anderson, for 44 years, retiring in 1986. He was an avid euchre player, a sports fan (especially the Cubs) and was interested in politics.

Survivors include: a son, Lee Cheney, Hartford City; a daughter, Jane Ann Morrical, Rensselaer; 3 grandchildren, Denise Mills, Laura Morrical and Adam Morrical; 3 great-grandchildren, Alishia Pugh, Colby Blair and Alex Mills; a great-great-grandchild, Kendall Pugh; 2 sisters, Lillian Latham, New Braunfels, Texas, and Jackie Howard, Hartford City.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, a daughter, Margret, 2 brothers, Lawrence “Pete” Cheney and James Cheney, and a sister, Lois Tatman.

Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Tuesday, June 7 in Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City, with Rev. Lloyd Hall officiating. Burial will follow in Hartford City Cemetery with military graveside rites.

Friends may call from 5 – 7 p.m. Monday, June 6 and after 9 a.m. Tuesday at Waters Funeral Home.

Memorials may be sent to: Special Olympics of Delaware County, P. O. Box 176, Muncie, Indiana 47308.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com

MARSHA K. BAUER

2011-06-02T11:27:00.000-07:00

HARTFORD CITY, INDIANA

Marsha K. Bauer, 63, passed away June 2, 2011 in Bridgewater Centre, Hartford City.

The daughter of Russell and Grace (Jones) Campbell, she was born May 19, 1948 in Hartford City. She graduated from Hartford City High School in 1966 and married John Bauer on September 2, 1967.

She was a secretary and office manager for 40 years and had worked at Bil’s Foods after retirement.

Marsha was a member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church and was a former member of Gamma Nu Sorority and enjoyed reading, word puzzles and spending time with her family.

Survivors include her husband, John, children, Mike (Mindy) Bauer, Hartford City, Christina Bauer-Arkenau, Indianapolis, and Mark (Shannon) Bauer, Lafayette. She is also survived by two sisters, Joyce (Bill) Hawk, Gas City and Alyce (Bill) McGriff, Hartford City; a godson, Adam McGriff-Tharp and several nieces and nephews.

Marsha was preceded in death by her parents.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by Father Dave Newton at 10 a.m. Monday, June 6 in St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, 209 S. Spring St., Hartford City. Burial will follow in Hartford City Cemetery.

Friends may call from 1 – 5 p.m. Sunday, June 5 and 9 – 9:30 a.m. Monday at Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City. A Christian Wake Service will be held at 1 p.m. Sunday, June 5 at the funeral home.

Memorials may be sent to: The CJD Foundation, P.O. Box 5312, Akron, Ohio 44334.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com

LLOYD E. FOWLER

2011-06-01T20:57:00.000-07:00

ANSONIA, OHIO

Lloyd E. Fowler, 89, resident of Ansonia, Ohio, passed away Wednesday, June 1, 2011 in I.U. Health Ball Memorial Hospital, Muncie, Indiana.

He was born November 22, 1921 in Randolph County, Indiana to George Jerome and Clara (Alexander) Fowler. He graduated from Jackson High School in Randolph County.

Lloyd worked as a tool maker at Fort Recovery Industries for 37 years.

Surviving are his children: Ted E. (Sherry) Fowler, Winchester, Teresa McDaniel, Union City, IN, Pam Griffith and Monte Fowler, both of Hartford City, IN; two step-children, Steve White, Greenville, OH and Deb Alexander, Dayton, OH; six grandchildren, Rochelle McGowan, Charlotte Grant-Huston, Marci Lovell, Lisa Fowler, Joshua Fowler and Tana Trammell; three great-grandchildren, Nathan Grant-Huston, Lynee Lovell and Troy Lovell, Jr.; two great-great-grandchildren, Tristan and Anthony Grant.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Freda (Million) Fowler in 1993, a brother, Keith Fowler and a son-in-law, James L. Griffith.

Funeral services will be at noon Saturday, June 4 in Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City, Indiana. The Committal Service will be at 3 p.m. at Greenville Township Memorial Gardens between Ansonia and Greenville, Ohio.

Friends may call at the funeral home from 10 a.m. to noon on Saturday.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com

LEWIS W. “BILL” TWIBELL

2011-05-03T12:36:00.000-07:00

HARTFORD CITY, IN

Lewis W. “Bill” Twibell, 86, passed away Monday, May 2, 2011 in I.U. Health Blackford Community Hospital, after a long illness.

Bill was born February 22, 1925 in Delaware County, the son of Henry and Opal (Reasoner) Twibell. He was a resident of Blackford County most of his life and was a 1943 graduate of Hartford City High School.

An Army veteran of WW II, he had served in the infantry in Germany where he was awarded the Silver Star for bravery in action with the 97th Infantry Division. He had also served in Japan with Occupation Forces.

Bill married Helen Wilson on May 28, 1949 in Hartford City. She survives.

He had worked as a machinist at Warner Gear (Borg Warner) retiring March 1, 1975, after 30 years of employment.

Bill was a member of Mt. Carmel United Methodist Church, and was a member of American Legion Post # 159 and a life member of Amvets Post #23, both in Hartford City. He loved to fish and was an avid bowler. He enjoyed carpenter work and had been engaged in farming.

Surviving are: his wife, Helen; his children, Elaine Saylor (Ovie), Franklin, Lewis Twibell, Jr., (Vicki), Eaton, Carol Tarr, Hartford City; three brothers, Glen Twibell (Mildred), Muncie, Earl Twibell and Don Twibell (Patsy), both of Hartford City; a sister, Joanne Dick, Hartford City; a sister-in-law, Margie Twibell, Hartford City; 10 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, son-in-law, Les Tarr, brothers Max and James, sister-in-law, Shirley Twibell, brother-in-law, Robert Dick, sister and brother-in-law, Josephine and James Lloyd.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, May 6 in Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City with Pastor Ron Johnson officiating. Burial will follow in
Union Cemetery, Eaton, with military graveside rites by Delaware County Veterans Organization.

Friends may call at the funeral home from 4- 8 p.m. Thursday, May 5 and after 10 a.m. Friday.

Memorials may be made to the Mt. Carmel Church in care of Waters Funeral Home.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com

CALVIN E. WATERS

2011-05-03T12:34:00.000-07:00

CALVIN E. WATERS

MUNCIE, INDIANA

Calvin E. Waters, 86, passed away Thursday, April 21 at The Woodlands, Muncie.

The son of Walter W. and Frances H. (Hone) Waters, he was born August 28, 1924 in Hartford City. He graduated from Hartford City High School in 1942, attended Ball State University and graduated from Indiana University in 1948. Calvin married Margaret Jane Fletcher in Muncie on May 24, 1946. She preceded him in death on April 21, 2008.

Calvin served in the Army Air Corps during WW II and later worked as an accountant at Ball Corporation, Muncie for 38 years, retiring in 1989.

He was a member of the First Baptist Church, Muncie, the Indiana Varsity Club, Indiana and Ball State Alumni Associations, the Moose Lodge, Muncie and served as the librarian for the Indiana Recording Club, Indianapolis.

Survivors include 2 daughters, Jill K. (Mark) Smith, Oxford, MI and Patricia (Philip) Greenburg, Jonesboro, 1 son, Michael Waters, Franklin, TN and 2 grandchildren, Emily Beth (Aaron) Wiley and Timothy Eugene Baughman and a great-grandson, Nicholas Fletcher Wiley.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, a brother Kenneth, who died in WW II and a sister, Hope Knoderer.

Funeral services will be conducted at 11 a.m. Monday, April 25 in Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City with his son, Pastor Michael Waters, officiating. Private burial will follow in Hartford City Cemetery.

Friends may call one hour prior to the service on Monday.

Memorials may be sent to The Woodlands, Muncie, c/o Waters Funeral Home.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com

MUNCIE, INDIANA

Calvin E. Waters, 86, passed away Thursday, April 21 at The Woodlands, Muncie.

The son of Walter W. and Frances H. (Hone) Waters, he was born August 28, 1924 in Hartford City. He graduated from Hartford City High School in 1942, attended Ball State University and graduated from Indiana University in 1948. Calvin married Margaret Jane Fletcher in Muncie on May 24, 1946. She preceded him in death on April 21, 2008.

Calvin served in the Army Air Corps during WW II and later worked as an accountant at Ball Corporation, Muncie for 38 years, retiring in 1989.

He was a member of the First Baptist Church, Muncie, the Indiana Varsity Club, Indiana and Ball State Alumni Associations, the Moose Lodge, Muncie and served as the librarian for the Indiana Recording Club, Indianapolis.

Survivors include 2 daughters, Jill K. (Mark) Smith, Oxford, MI and Patricia (Philip) Greenburg, Jonesboro, 1 son, Michael Waters, Franklin, TN and 2 grandchildren, Emily Beth (Aaron) Wiley and Timothy Eugene Baughman and a great-grandson, Nicholas Fletcher Wiley.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, a brother Kenneth, who died in WW II and a sister, Hope Knoderer.

Funeral services will be conducted at 11 a.m. Monday, April 25 in Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City with his son, Pastor Michael Waters, officiating. Private burial will follow in Hartford City Cemetery.

Friends may call one hour prior to the service on Monday.

Memorials may be sent to The Woodlands, Muncie, c/o Waters Funeral Home.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com

LAWRENCE J. STROUP

2011-04-08T06:37:00.000-07:00

HARTFORD CITY, IN

Lawrence J. Stroup, 94, passed away Wednesday, April 6 in Miller’s Merry Manor.

A native of Blackford County, he was born on January 11, 1917 to Lawrence H. and Clara B. (Marshall) Stroup. He attended Hartford City Schools and married Cecilia. R. Pursley in Hartford City on February 1, 1947.

Mr. Stroup worked for St. Joe Paper Company for many years, retiring in 1982.

He was an Army Air Corps veteran of WW II and was a 45 year member of the American Legion. Lawrence was a member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church.

Survivors include his wife, Cecilia R.; two daughters, Jenny A. Tsakkos, Bluffton and Kay Fernandez, Naples, FL; one son, Patrick Stroup, Indianapolis; ten grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a daughter, Elizabeth, a son, David, two brothers, James and Glen and a sister, Hazel Gill.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by Father Dave Newton at 10 a.m. Saturday, April 9 in St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, 209 S. Spring St., Hartford City. Burial will follow in Hartford City Cemetery with military graveside rites.

Friends may call at Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City from 4-7 p.m. Friday, April 8. A Christian Wake Service will be held at 4 p.m. Friday at the funeral home.

Memorials may be made to St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com

DELORES E. McINTIRE

2011-03-28T18:56:00.001-07:00

Hartford City, Indiana

Delores E. McIntire, 91, passed away Friday, March 25 in Woodcrest Nursing Center, Decatur.

The daughter of John and Faye (Bookout) Powers, she was born April 6, 1919 in Hartford City. She married Leo G. McIntire on October 3, 1936 in Hartford City. His death occurred September 12, 1990.

A homemaker, Delores had worked as a nurse’s aide at Blackford County Hospital for over 15 years. She had formerly attended Dunkirk Church of the Nazarene.

Survivors include three sons, Phillip McIntire, Gas City, David (Jo Ellen) McIntire, Decatur, and J.R. (Lanelle) McIntire, Kokomo, six grandchildren, Casey (Gary) Morrison, Mike (Missy) McIntire, Mark (Carrie) McIntire, Kelly (Josh) Roby, Scarlett Boothe and Ryan McIntire, thirteen great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, and two brothers, Bobby and Donald Powers.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, March 30 in Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City with her son, David McIntire officiating. Burial will follow in Gardens of Memory, Muncie.

Friends may call from 5:00 – 8:00 p.m. Tuesday and after 9:00 a.m. Wednesday at Waters Funeral Home.

The family requests memorials be made to the Dunkirk Church of the Nazarene, 226 E. Center St., Dunkirk, IN 47336.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com.

MARJORIE LOIS SIMS

2011-03-16T13:54:00.000-07:00

HARTFORD CITY, INDIANA

Marjorie Lois Sims, 93, passed away Tuesday, March 15 at Miller’s Merry Manor.

She was born November 8, 1917 to Clifford and Henrietta (Tappy) Risley. Sr. in Wells County. She graduated from Hartford City High School and married Orval “Bud” Sims in Hartford City on December 25, 1937. His death occurred June 21, 1998.

Marjorie was a member of Grace United Methodist Church, a charter member of Rho Chapter of Omega Nu Tau Sorority, Business & Professional Women, Research Club and several other clubs. She had worked at Fort Wayne Corrugated, 3-M and Manpower.

Survivors include: son, Mark (Menena) Sims, Hartford City; grandchildren, Leslie (Brent)Van Skyock, Portland, Megan Twibell (companion, Allen Speidel), Chris (Leslie) Smith, Aaron Smith (companion, Ashley Coleman), Brandi (Shane) Ehrhart, and Steven Sims, all of Hartford City; great-grandchildren, Cody Davis, Chelsea Davis, Jordan Daily, Jamie Twibell, Jared Twibell, Jaycee Twibell, Abby Speidel, Alyssa Smith, Evan Smith, Madison Smith, KayLee Sims and Briana Ehrhart; one brother, Clifford (Berniece) Risley, Jr., Thousand Oaks, CA.

Besides her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by a son, Doran Sims in 2001, and a sister, Esther Hendricks.

Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, March 19 in Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St. Burial will follow in Hartford City Cemetery.

Friends may call at the funeral home from 2 – 7 p.m. Friday and after noon on Saturday.

Memorials may be made to the donor’s favorite charity.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com

CHARLES F. LIGHTLE

2011-03-15T21:26:00.000-07:00

McCordsville, In

Charles F. Lightle, 78, died Monday, March 14 at his daughter’s residence in McCordsville.

He was born in Wells County on August 10, 1932 to Marzelos and Vivian (Townsend) Lightle. He graduated from Holy Family Catholic School in 1946 and graduated from Hartford City High School in 1950. He had resided in Anderson for 22 years prior to moving to McCordsville.

Charles served in the Air Force during the Korean War and worked for Fisher Body, Marion, retiring after 27 years of employment.

Charles was a member of the Academy of Model Aeronautics, the UAW, Marion, and was an avid Cubs fan.

Surviving are two sons, James (Joan) Lightle, Charlotte, NC and George (companion, Billy) Lightle, Orlando, Florida, one daughter, Cindy (Donald) Royse, McCordsville, three brothers, John (Marsha) Bauer, Hartford City, John and Neldon Lightle, both of Marion, one sister, Rose Marie (Steve) Brown, Jonesboro, and a half-sister, Nancy Lightle. Also surviving are ten grandchildren, ten great-grandchildren and several aunts.

He was preceded in death by his father, mother, step-father, George H. Bauer, brothers, George F. Bauer and Lyle Lightle, companion, Mary Biddle, and two step-daughters, Renee Fox and Tina McNannee.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be concelebrated by Father Dave Newton and Father Robert Williams at 11 a.m. March 17 in St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church 209 S. Spring St., Hartford City. Burial will follow with military rites in Hartford City Cemetery.

Friends may call at Rozelle-Johnson Funeral Home, 229 S. Rangeline Road, Anderson, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday, March 16 and evening visitation will be at Waters Funeral Home, Hartford City from 6 – 8 p.m. Wednesday. A Christian Wake Service will be held at 6 p.m. Wednesday at Waters Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be sent to American Cancer Society.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com

BETHEL E. HALL

2011-02-27T11:40:00.000-08:00

HARTFORD CITY, IN

Bethel E. Hall, 92, passed away Sunday, February 27, 2011, at Northwest Manor, Indianapolis.

A native of Jay County, she was born June 2, 1918 to Fred and Ruth (Cray) Iliff. She graduated from Bryant High School in 1937 and lived in Jay County prior to moving to Hartford City in 1961. Bethel married John Hall in Portland on July 29, 1961. Mr. Hall passed away January 1, 2002.

Bethel had worked at Franklin Electric in Bluffton for 20 years and at Blackford County Hospital for 15 years.

She was a member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church and the Altar & Rosary Society.

Survivors include: three daughters, Marian Warner, Hartford City, Alberta Close, Bluffton and Norma (Jean) Lawler, Indianapolis; a son, George Brewster, Pennville; two brothers, Ronnie (Roberta) Iliff and Donnie (Patricia) Iliff, both of Portland; two sisters, Oma Jane Uran and Nelda Arta, both of California; 13 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren and 7 great-great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, a son, Dwight Brewster, seven brothers, three sisters and a grandson, Jesse Brewster.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Wednesday, March 2 in St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, 209 S. Spring St., Hartford City by Father Dave Newton. Burial will follow in Hartford City Cemetery.

Friends may call from 2 - 4 and 6 - 8 p.m. Tuesday, March 1 in Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City. A Christian Wake service will be held at 7 p.m. Tuesday in the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials to St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church or the Blackford Animal Shelter.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com

MARGARETT L. GROSS

2011-02-18T10:38:00.000-08:00

HARTFORD CITY, IN

Margarett L. Gross died Thursday, February 17 in I.U. Health Ball Memorial Hospital, Muncie.

She was born on April 25, 1946 in Jackson, Kentucky, the daughter of Barlow and Carrie (Johnson) Clemons. She married Bulow L. Gross in Wise, Virginia on August 15, 1968. They moved to Blackford County in 1990 from Cedar Grove, Indiana.

Survivors include her husband, Bulow; one daughter, Jocelyn Fay “Joy” Tague (husband, Mark), Rising Sun, Indiana; one son, Nathan William Gross, Hartford City; one sister, Dora Holbrook, Jackson, Kentucky; five brothers, E. B. Clemons and Jimmy Clemons, both of Somerset, Kentucky, Willard Clemons and Bulow Clemons, Jr., both of Jackson, Kentucky, and Oddis Clemons, Connersville, Indiana; and three grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, one son, Philip, and one brother, Tommy Clemons.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 A.M. Monday, February 21 in Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City with Rev. Lloyd Hall officiating. Burial will follow in Hartford City Cemetery.

Friends may call at the funeral home from 2:00-5:00 P.M. Sunday, February 20 and one hour prior to services on Monday.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com

MARJORIE JEAN WENTZ

2011-01-30T11:25:00.001-08:00

HARTFORD CITY, IN

Marjorie Jean Wentz, 82, passed away January 19, 2011 at Heritage Pointe, Warren.

She was born in Hartford City on November 27, 1928 to Albert Austin and Tula May (Butler) Russell of Russell’s Dairy, formerly on the north side of Hartford City.

She was a 1946 graduate of Hartford City High School where she served in Job’s Daughters and on the yearbook staff. Marjorie married George R. Wentz on August 7, 1949 in the E.U.B. Church, now known as Trinity United Methodist. She volunteered with youth as a Sunday school teacher, Methodist Youth Fellowship advisor and Cub Scouts and Girl Scouts leader. In Texas, she volunteered in English as a second language programs. Marjorie retired as office manager from Ken’s Bandag. She enjoyed sewing, gardening, reading, and swimming.

Survivors include; a daughter, TJ (Scott) Becker, Cassopolis, Michigan; two sons, Brett (Susie) Wentz, Villa Park, Illinois and Kevin Allen Wentz, Fort Wayne; a sister, Ruth I Clark, Fort Wayne; and two grandchildren, Laura and Sean Wentz.

She was preceded in death by her husband on July 22, 2008, a brother, Bob Russell, and five sisters, Leila Keller, Mable Shane, Marie Futrell, Betty Whitaker and Kathy Parker.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, February 5, at Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City with Pastor K. M. Lord and Rev. John Parks officiating. Burial will follow in Hartford City Cemetery.

Friends may visit the family from 10 to 11 a.m. Saturday prior to the service.

Memorials may be sent to: United Methodist Memorial Home Foundation, P.O. Box 326, Warren, IN 46792-0326 or Family Hospice of NE Indiana, 265 W. Water St., Berne, IN 46711.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com

FRANCIS C. RICE, JR.

2011-01-16T09:06:00.000-08:00

HARTFORD CITY, IN

Francis C. Rice, Jr., 79, passed away Thursday, January 13, 2011 at Parker Health Care in Parker City.

He was born on May 25, 1931 in Muncie to Francis L. Sr. and Eva (Campbell) Rice. Francis served his country in the US Navy and married Patricia Dinkel on November 16, 1952 in Indianapolis.

Francis worked as a truck driver until retiring in 1982.

He was an avid fisherman and also a member of the VFW and American Legion.

He is survived by his children: Richard Rice, of Hartford City, Douglas Rice, of Gaston, Dale Rice (wife, Cindy), of Huntington, Ryan Rice, of Muncie and Lisa Lee, of Muncie; sister-in-law Jo Ann Talbott, as well as several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews, and special friends, Danny and Cindy Cox.

In addition to his parents, Francis was preceded in death by his wife, Patricia, and a sister Delores Ford.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 pm., Monday, January 17, 2011 in the Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City, with Rev. Lloyd Hall presiding. Burial with military rites by the Delaware County Veterans Honor Guard will follow at Elm Ridge Cemetery.

Friends may call from 1:00 – 4:00 pm., Sunday, January 16, 2011 at the Waters Funeral Home and one hour prior to services Monday.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com

SHARON K. BANTZ

2011-01-16T05:27:00.000-08:00

HARTFORD CITY, IN

Sharon K. Bantz, 64, went to meet her Lord on Saturday, January 15 at Ball Memorial Hospital.

She was born March 19, 1946 in Portland, the daughter of Ralph and Lucille (Landon) Freed. Sharon married Gregory E. Bantz, Sr. on February 15, 1974 in Mount Carmel United Methodist Church.

Sharon was employed at Overhead Door and retired in 2008 from Key Plastics. She was a member of Hartford City First Church of the Nazarene and attended the New Covenant Fellowship, near Portland.

She had served on the Hartford City Heritage Days Committee and loved camping and spending time with her children and grandchildren.

Surviving in addition to her husband, Greg, are: her mother, Lucille Freed, Portland; a daughter, Lisa (husband, Brook) Emerick, Portland; two sons, Scott Adney, Hartford City and Gregory E. Bantz, Jr., (wife Tonya), Dunkirk; a step-daughter, Jennifer McKinley (husband, Brian), Pekin, IN; a brother, Gerald Somers (wife, Lois), Portland; a sister, Judy Neal (husband, Dewey), Dunkirk; grandchildren, Alicia, Zach, Brittney, Kelby, Carrie, Tiarra, Storm, Bryce, Logan, Brian, Jr., Kylie, and Allison; uncle and aunt, Francis and Lola Dellinger, Ruskin, FL; aunts, Verda Freed, Bryant and Wilma Wheeler, Pennville.

She was preceded in death by her father.

Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, January 19 in Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City with burial following in Hartford City Cemetery.

Friends may call from 2-4 and 6-8 Tuesday, January 18 and after 9 a.m. Wednesday at the funeral home.

Memorials may be made to the donor’s favorite charity.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com.

Richmond Lewis Scott, O.D.

2011-01-14T11:35:00.000-08:00

Dr. Richmond Lewis Scott passed away on January 3, 2011, in Woodland Hills, California. Dr. Scott was a pioneering state and national leader in optometry who helped shape the scope and mode of optometric care in Indiana and the nation.

He is survived by his wife, Pearl, and his daughter, Joy Scott Sheets (Michael), and his two grandchildren, Jason and Kiki. His son, Richmond Lewis Scott II, lost his life in an automobile accident on September 12, 1982.

Dr. Scott was born on August 6, 1924 in San Antonio, Texas to Richard D. and Anna W. Scott. He was the youngest of 8 children. The late Mrs. J.A. Santilli, whose husband was the former President of Fort Wayne Corrugated, was his oldest sister. Dr. Scott married Pearl Jeanne Caldwell in San Antonio, Texas, on December 11, 1943. They attended high school together and lived in the same neighborhood.

World War II was declared in 1941 at the time of their graduation. Lewis attended St. Mary’s University while waiting to be called into cadet training. He received his silver wings and his commission with the Army Air Corps December 1943. Dr. Scott was sent home on a ten day furlough. He was to remain in the States for 6 more months for additional training before being sent to Europe. They decided to be married so they could be together before he was sent to Europe.

He was first sent to England, and then to France. He flew the A-20 Havoc and the A-26 Invader on missions over Germany. On February 16, 1945, his plane was shot down while flying a mission over Unna, Germany. The plane exploded and caught on fire. His two gunners were killed in the explosion. Dr. Scott managed to bail out and was captured. He was first sent to a hospital because of his wounds and then sent to a German prison camp for the duration of the war. He was awarded the Purple Heart.

After Dr. Scott returned home, he again attended St. Mary’s University, prior to entering Pennsylvania College of Optometry in Philadelphia. He graduated with honors and received his Doctor of Optometry in 1950. Forty-six years later Dr. Scott would receive the President’s Awards from his alma mater for “the advancement of the profession.”

He decided to settle in Hartford City, Indiana since his sister, Helen Santilli, resided there and he had visited from time to time and became acquainted. He was asked to come to Hartford City to practice since there was a need for his services there. He first practiced with Dr. Guy Owsley and then with Dr. Hamilton. Dr. Richard Windsor associated with Dr. Scott in 1973 and later, Dr. Craig Ford and Dr. Laura K. Windsor associated with them. The practice then became The Eye Associates Group LLC in Hartford City. Dr. Scott and his associates also developed the Low Vision Centers of Indiana, a program to help the partially-sighted which have grown into two major low vision clinics in Indianapolis and Fort Wayne that serve visually impaired patients from throughout the United States and the around the world.

Throughout his career he always sought to improve the quality of care he could deliver to his patients. Dr. Irv Borish, noted lecturer and author wrote of Dr. Scott’s practice; “His office, equipment and mode and scope of practice demonstrates the forefront on the profession as ideally envisioned, and serves as a relatively rare example of consistency between preachment and practice.”

Dr. Scott extended his desire to improve the quality and scope of optometric care beyond his practice. For over seventeen years, he served on the Indiana Optometry Board, most of that time as President of the Board. Dr. Scott worked tirelessly on expanding the scope and quality of optometric care. He has lectured throughout the state, country, as well as presenting lectures in Paris, Monaco and Venice. He was a strong proponent of mandatory continuing education for health care providers and helped pass legislation in Indiana to require continuing education for optometric relicensure.

Dr. Scott’s kind and caring personality made him an amazingly effective leader. Dr. Henry Hofsteter, first Dean of the Indiana University School of Optometry described him as “optometry’s great diplomat.” He was appointed five times by three different Indiana governors from both political parties to serve on the Indiana Optometry Boards. Following the enactment of new therapeutic legislation in Indiana, he was called upon by Governor Evan Bayh to serve as Chairman of the OLDPAC committee to implement the new law. He was awarded a Sagamore of the Wabash by the Governor of Indiana and Honorary Attorney General Award by the Indiana Attorney General for his work in healthcare licensing.

Dr. Scott is a Fellow of the American Academy of Optometry and member of the American Optometric Association. In 1984, the AOA selected Dr. Scott as the AOA’s National Optometrist of the Year. Dr. Scott is also a Past President of the Indiana Optometric Association. He is also the only doctor of optometry to twice be selected as the Indiana Optometrist of the Year. The IOA has also awarded him the Distinguished Service Award, two Meritorious Service Awards and in 1993 presented Dr. Scott with the IOA’s Lifetime Achievement Award.

He also served as President of the National Board of Examiners in Optometry and President of the International Association of Boards of Examiners in Optometry. While serving on the National Board of Examiners in Optometry he was instrumental in the development of the NBEO Treatment and Management of Disease Test. In 1984, he was appointed a Distinguished Practitioner of the National Academies of Practice, an honor limited to only one hundred outstanding clinicians and scholars in each of the ten major health professions in the United States.

Dr. Scott has chaired multiple fund raising campaigns for Indiana University School of Optometry and in 1989 received the Indiana University-Purdue University Spirit of Philanthropy Award, Certificate of Recognition.

The Advancement of Optometry Lecture Series, at the Indiana University School of Optometry through funding from the Eye Associates Group LLC will honor Dr. Scott’s legacy of leadership.

Dr. Scott was also very active in his community. He helped solicit funds for the then new Blackford Hospital in 1953 and the municipal swimming pool. He, Dr. Owsley and Robert Wearly developed the Oaks Residential Subdivision north of the city. He also was one of the organizers of First National Bank, now known as Pacesetter Bank, and served as a director for many years.

In 2009, Dr. Scott moved to California to enjoy his retirement and be near his daughter, son-in-law, and grandchildren.

Visitation will be from 5 – 8 p.m. on Friday, January 21, at the Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City, with a Christian Wake Service at 5 p.m. The Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10 a.m., Saturday, January 22, at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, 209 S. Spring St., Hartford City. Burial will be made in Gardens of Memory with military rites by the Delaware County Veterans Organization.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations in The Lewis Scott Scholarship for Guardian Angel School, c/o Scott Public Relations, 21201 Victory Blvd. # 270, Canoga Park, CA 91303.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com

DAVID D. WILSON

2011-01-12T07:16:00.001-08:00

MONTPELIER, IN

David Draher Wilson, 78, prominent Hartford City attorney, passed away unexpectedly Friday, January 7, 2011 in Sarasota, Florida.

He was born August 2, 1932 in Hartford City, the son of John and Dorothy (Draher) Wilson. He was a 1950 graduate of Montpelier High School, graduated in 1954 from the University of Notre Dame School of Engineering and in 1957 from University of Notre Dame Law School. On February 2, 1957 he married Margaret Alice Kennell at the University of Notre Dame.

Dave served in the U.S. Air Force JAG from 1957-1960. After his discharge, he moved back to Blackford County and opened his law practice and was a family practitioner from 1960 to present. He was also a Blackford County farmer from 1960-2008.

Dave was a former Blackford County Prosecutor from 1962-1966. He was a lifelong member of St. Margaret’s Catholic Church, Montpelier, member of Blackford County and Indiana State Bar Association, Kiwanis Club, Emil A. Schweier Council #1639 Knights of Columbus and the Bishop Arnold Assembly #243 4th Degree, Muncie, and was a member of the Fifty Year Club of the University of Notre Dame Alumni Association. He was a board member of St. Margaret’s and Woodlawn Cemeteries, and was a former board member of Blackford Community Foundation.

Survivors include: wife, Margaret “Peg”; daughters, Diane (Michael) Reardon, Carmel, Elizabeth “Betsy” (Edward) Sipes, Marion, Mary Wilson, Sugarland, TX, and Janet Conner, Hartford City; son, David (Kim) Wilson, Jr., Marion; grandchildren, James and Zachary Reardon, Troy and Christopher Sipes, Akeem Wilson, David III and Anne Wilson, Brandon and Jared Conner.

He was preceded in death by his parents and infant son, Joseph Edward.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Friday, January 14 in St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, 209 S. Spring St., Hartford City with Father Dave Newton as celebrant. Burial will follow at St. John’s Cemetery, Montpelier.

Friends may call at Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City from 4-8 p.m. Thursday, January 13, with a Christian Wake Service at 4 p.m. Thursday.

Memorials may be made to St. Margaret’s Cemetery Fund or Blackford Community Foundation.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com.

L. JANE PRESTON

2011-01-03T11:07:00.001-08:00

HARTFORD CITY, IN

L. Jane Preston, 65, died Friday morning, December 31, 2010 at her residence, from heart related complications.
The life of Leota Jane Nessell began on July 29, 1945 to her parents, George and Florence E. (Atkinson) Nessell of rural Blackford County, both of whom precede her in death. After graduating form Hartford City High School in 1963, Janie moved to Ohio to attend Bowling Green State University to earn her degree in Art History in 1967. She then earned her Masters degree from Ball State University and became an art teacher in the Avon School system, near Indianapolis.
On July 12, 1975, she married John C. Preston in Indianapolis. Janie was currently employed by the Delaware School Corporation, teaching at Royerton Elementary for over thirty years and was presently teaching at Delta Middle School.
Janie had a high appreciation of the world in which she lived and treasured all of her friendships. She was a walking history of Blackford County and was active in several clubs and organizations including the D.A.R., Trowel & Error Garden Club, the Red Hat Society, NEA and Alpha Delta Pi.
Missing her most, will be her son John, but because of her guidance and direction toward the expanded horizons, he can carry on her many visions and desires. Her former husband, John C. Preston also survives, as well as dear friends, David and Sarah Lou Jones of Hartford City and Phyllis Said, Muncie and dear to her heart as well, her Labrador Retrievers, Sable and Sadie.
The funeral will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, January 5 in Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City, with Rev. W. Lloyd Hall presiding. Cremation will follow the service.
Visitation will be from 4 – 7 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 4th and after 9 a.m. Wednesday at the funeral home.
Memorials may be made to any humane society or any animal rescue fund.
Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com.

TERRY DEAN WILLMANN

2010-12-29T18:53:00.001-08:00

WARSAW, IN

Terry Dean Willmann, 46, died unexpectedly of coronary disease at his residence December 27, 2010 in Warsaw.

He was born September 15, 1964 in Hartford City, the son of Leland and Nancy (Thomas) Willmann. He graduated from Blackford High School and Ball State University and had resided in the Warsaw area for the past fifteen years.

Terry was a member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church. He enjoyed good books, great movies, and music. He was an avid sports fan, especially the New York Yankees, and one of his favorite pastimes was gigging on the Barbee Chain.

Surviving are: his mother, Nancy Willmann, Hartford City; a brother, Kent (Keely) Willmann, Longmont, CO; a sister, Karen Byall, Lake Sechrist, IN and her companion, Tim Towne, Gun Barrel City, TX; nieces and nephews, Keenan, Colin, and Mahala Willmann, Cameron Byall, (fiancé, Gabriella Layman), Gavin and Tanner Byall; brother-in-law, Mark Byall and numerous close friends and relatives.

He was preceded in death by his father, Leland Willmann and a sister, Michelle Willmann.

A Service of Remembrance will be held at 3 p.m. Friday, December 31 in Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., with Father Dave Newton officiating. Cremation will follow the service.

Friends may call at Waters Funeral Home from noon to 3 p.m. Friday.

In lieu of flowers the family requests memorials to Blackford Community Foundation.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com

TROY E. WARMOTH

2010-12-17T05:17:00.000-08:00

HARTFORD CITY, IN

Troy E. Warmoth, 47, son of Edi Tarter, died unexpectedly Monday, December 13 at his home in Virginia Beach, Virginia.

Troy was born August 22, 1963 in New Castle, the son of Earl H. and Edith (Link) Warmoth. He was raised in New Castle graduating from New Castle High School in 1981. Then he enlisted in the U. S. Navy. After his discharge he continued to reside in Virginia Beach, Virginia.

Mr. Warmoth worked as a pipe fitter in the construction industry.

He was a member of the Zion Lutheran Church and the National Rifle Association.

Surviving in addition to his mother are an uncle and aunt, Jack (JoAnn) Warmoth, Hagerstown, cousins, Gill and Guy Warmoth, Hagerstown, and special friends, Darcie Davis, Ed Evens, and Jeff, Trish and Nicole Melnick. He is also survived by several aunts, uncles and cousins residing in Germany.

He was preceded in death by his father and step-father, J. Robert Tarter.

Funeral services will be conducted at 1:00 p.m. Saturday, December 18 in the Zion Lutheran Church, 308 S. Monroe St., Hartford City with Rev. David Fleener officiating. Burial will follow in Hartford City Cemetery.

Friends may call at Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City, from 4:00-7:00 p.m. Friday December 17 and from noon to 1:00 p.m. Saturday at the church.

Memorials may be directed to the Zion Lutheran Church.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com

HARLAN TRACY KERLIN

2010-11-27T13:59:00.000-08:00

Indianapolis, Indiana
Harlan Tracy Kerlin, 94, resident of Westside Garden Plaza, Indianapolis, for the past ten years, and formerly of Hartford City, died November 26, 2010 after an extended illness.

Mr. Kerlin was born on March 18, 1916 in Fickle Station, IN, son of Mary Edna (Tracy) Kerlin and Methodist minister, Rev. Clarence J. Kerlin. His parents and infant sister, Eva Margaret, preceded him in death.
Tracy graduated from Frankfort High School in 1934, and in 1938 received his B.S. degree from Indiana Central College, with endorsements to teach music, physics and mathematics. His Masters Degrees in Music Education and Public School Administration were from Ball State. He taught music and was band director in Lapaz, IN until he joined the army in 1943. He was stationed in Ft. Stevens, Oregon as a medical corpsman, then when WWII ended he was sent to San Francisco where he served as a Medic during the establishment of the United Nations. He taught music (band) and mathematics in the Hartford City School System until he retired in 1978. He moved to Westside Garden Plaza, Indianapolis, October, 2000.
Tracy faithfully served his Lord at Grace United Methodist Church in Hartford City for over fifty years. Besides singing in the choir, and teaching Sunday school, he worked tirelessly in the development of mission programs within the church as well as gave support and encouragement to those who went into the ministry from Grace UMC church.
He was a faithful member of the Hartford City Rotary Club for over fifty years. Under his guidance the Hartford City Rotary Club achieved the rare distinction of 100% of its members becoming a “Paul Harris Fellow” of Rotary International.
Mr. Kerlin is survived by his brother, Dr. Joseph Kerlin (Rosie), Danville, and cousin, William Henry (Pauline), Franklin, four nieces, Becky Haak, Danville, Beth Toben (Brad), Waco, TX, Lynn Paul Sternberg (Scott), Pasadena, CA, and Mary Ann Wehlage Alexander (Nick), Broad Ripple, five great-nieces and four great-nephews.
Visitation will be on Sunday, November 28, 2010 from 1 to 4 p.m. at Waters Funeral Home, Hartford City. The Memorial Service will be held at Grace United Methodist Church, Hartford City at 10:30 am. Monday, November 29. Interment will be at Greenwood Memorial Gardens on Tuesday, November 30 at 1:00 p.m.
Memorial Contributions may be directed to Taylor University, Upland, IN, or Grace United Methodist Church, Hartford City, IN.
Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com

JOHN A. STRINE

2010-11-11T13:41:00.000-08:00

Hartford City

John A. Strine, 73, passed away Sunday, November 7, 2010 at his residence surrounded by his loving family.

A lifetime resident of Hartford City, he was born July 2, 1937 to John and Daisy (Cheney) Strine in Hartford City. He graduated from Hartford City High School in 1955 and married Norma Darnell April 17, 1956.

John was employed at Foster-Forbes Glass Company, Marion, for 37 ½ years, retiring in October, 1993. John enjoyed fishing and golfing.

Survivors include: his wife, Norma; 2 sons, Doug (Becky) Strine, Hartford City and Steve (Amy) Strine, Fort Wayne; 1 daughter, Nancy (Gary) Soultz, Gas City; 2 Brothers, Fred (Joan) Strine and Roger (Mary Kay) Strine, both of Hartford City; 6 grandchildren, 5 step-grandchildren, 7 great-grandchildren and 8 step-great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother, Robert, a sister, Martha Whitesell, and his mother-in-law, Wretha Darnell.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, November 12 at the Lake Placid Worship Center, 0397 South 200 East, Hartford City with Pastor Jack Shiflett officiating. Burial will be made in Union Cemetery, Eaton.

Memorials may be made to Family Hospice of Northeast Indiana, 265 W. Water St., Berne, Indiana 46711, or to the donor’s favorite charity.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com

BETTY L. UFKES

2010-10-16T08:33:00.000-07:00

Hartford City, IN

Betty L. Ufkes, 79, passed away Wednesday, October 13, 2010 in Ball Memorial Hospital.

Betty was born May 30, 1931 in Narrows, Virginia to James Elbert and Ocia Ola (Lowman) Tipton. She graduated from Fassern School, Hendersonville, NC in 1950. She moved to Indiana after high school and attended Ball State University for 3 ½ years. Her marriage to Wilfred (Will) Ufkes took place in Muncie on December 27, 1953.

She worked in the Zionsville schools as a Dietary supervisor for many years before moving to Hartford City. Then she was employed at Westminster Village as a hostess and evening supervisor for 16 years.

Betty was a member of the First Presbyterian Church, Research Club and Craft Ladies at Minnetrista Center and Oakhurst. She was fond of animals.

She was a beloved mother and survived by: her husband, Will; 2 daughters, Beth (Ken) Mc Cormack, Whitestown and Becky (Ken) Lueth, Warrenton, VA; 2 sons, Dan B. (Angie) Ufkes, Clayton, IN and Edward B. (Michaela) Ufkes, Lebanon, IN; 3 grandchildren, Holly (Justin) Grant, Rebekah Ufkes and Kacee Ufkes; 2 great-grandchildren, Morganne and Kaelynn Grant and 3 step-grandsons, Michael Morlan, Bill Rhoades and Dustin Rhoades.

She was preceded in death by her parents, 4 brothers and 3 sisters.

Funeral services will be conducted at 10 a.m. Monday, October 18 in Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City with Pastor David Smith officiating. A committal service will be in Lincoln Memorial Gardens, Whitestown, at 2 p.m. Monday.

Friends may call at Waters Funeral Home from 2-4 p.m. Sunday, October 17 and after 9 a.m. Monday.

Memorials may be made to the First Presbyterian Church or Cancer Support of Blackford County, c/o Blackford Community Foundation.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com

HERBERT H. HOLSTEN

2010-09-27T09:45:00.000-07:00

HARTFORD CITY, IN

Herbert H. Holsten, 74, passed away Sunday morning, September 26, 2010, in University Nursing Center, Upland.

The son of Martin and Laura (Pretzlaff) Holsten, he was born in Portland, Indiana on December 16, 1935. Herbert graduated from Roll High School in 1953 and served in the U. S. Marine Corps. He married Peggy Elam in Hartford City on October 25, 1958 and lived most of his life in Blackford County.

Herb was a member of Zion Lutheran Church and worked at 3-M Company for over 30 years.

Survivors include: his wife, Peggy; 3 sons, Jeff (Dawn) Holsten, Albuquerque, NM, Jacob (Diana) Holsten, Hartford City, and Bradley (Denise), Albany, IN; 8 grandchildren, Megan Holsten, Jeremy (Cassandra) Holsten, Jarrett Holsten, Tiffany Holsten, Ryan Holsten, Kyle Holsten, Parker Holsten and Brittany (Cole) Chambers; 2 great-grandchildren, Paislee Chambers and Preston Holsten; and a sister, Leona (Richard) Ruch, Sweetser.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother, Glen, and a sister, Louise Holsten.

Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Friday, October 1, 2010 in Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City with Father Dave Newton officiating. Burial will follow in Gardens of Memory, Muncie.

Friends may call at the funeral home from 4-8 p.m. Thursday and 10-11 a.m. Friday.

Memorials may be made to Zion Lutheran Church, 308 S. Monroe St., Hartford City, IN 47348.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com.

ARIA GRACIE MARIE MANSFIELD

2010-09-18T07:41:00.001-07:00

MUNCIE, INDIANA

Aria Gracie Marie Mansfield, infant daughter of Ashley Marie Mansfield, was stillborn at 6:35 a.m. Tuesday, September 14, 2010 in Ball Memorial Hospital.

In addition to her mother, she is survived by her grandmother, Amy Mansfield, grandfather, Matt Mansfield (wife, Charlotte), maternal great-grandparents, Jessie and Frank Garinger, paternal great-grandparents, Robert and Sandra Mansfield, great-great-grandmothers, Margaret Corner and Alice Reynolds, an aunt Makyla Mansfield and two uncles, Austin Mansfield and Ethon Mansfield and several great aunts and uncles.

She was preceded into eternal rest by great-great-grandparents, Chester and Grace Brown, and great-great-grandfathers, Lee Mansfield and Walter Reynolds.

Funeral services will be held at 3 p.m. Saturday, September 18, 2010 in Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City with Rev. Dr. Gary Hall officiating. Burial will follow the service in Hartford City Cemetery next to her great-great-grandmother.

Friends may call at the Waters Funeral Home from 2-3 p.m. Saturday.

Memorials may be made to Grace United Methodist Church, 312 W. Washington St., Hartford City, IN 47348.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com.

HELEN E. CAPPER

2010-09-05T05:07:00.000-07:00

HARTFORD CITY, IN

Helen E. Capper, 96, passed away Saturday, September 4, 2010 in Blackford Community Hospital.

She was born October 13, 1913 in Banquo, Indiana, the daughter of William Levi and Dora Ethel (Parke) Hairrell. A 1931 graduate of Banquo High School, she had resided in Hartford City since 1943. In 1945 Helen married Fred Capper who died in 1967.

She had been employed as a machine operator for 25 years at HP Products, retiring in 1978.

Helen was a member of the First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), Christian Home Fellowship, and the American Legion Auxiliary, Hartford City.

Surviving are: two sons, Harry Bowman and Gary (Carolyn) Bowman, both of Hartford City; two daughters, Sherry (Bob) Reynolds, Hartford City and Gayle (Jack) Nelson, Elkhart; a sister, Ruth Sprowl, Huntington; several grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, parents, a son, Ronald Capper, six brothers and two sisters.

Funeral services will be conducted at 10 a.m. Tuesday, September 7 in Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City. Burial will follow in Gardens of Memory, Muncie.

Friends may call at Waters Funeral Home from 6-8 p.m. Monday and after 9 a.m. Tuesday.

Memorials may be made to the First Christian Church, 500 N. High St., Hartford City, IN 47348.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com.

HAZEL E. FUTRELL

2010-08-22T21:01:00.000-07:00

Hartford City, IN

Hazel E. Futrell, 80, passed away Saturday, August 21, 2010, at her residence.

The daughter of Ogden and Ella (Peterson) Mundorf, she was born March 7, 1930 Griswold, Iowa. She moved to Hartford City in 1948 and married Carl “Bob” Futrell December 9, 1971.

Hazel worked at Sheller-Globe over 40 years retiring in 1992.

Survivors include: her husband, Carl “Bob” Futrell; 2 daughters, Linda (Charles) Butcher and Frances (John) Hunt; 4 sons, David (Mandy) Murrell, Scott (Sheila) Murrell, Lester (companion, Edie Murray) Murrell and Nikki (Dee) Murrell, all of Hartford City; 6 step-children, Judy Futrell, Cindy Futrell, Janet (Nick) Charnley, Nancy Griffith, Bobby (Rita) Futrell and Bill (Allicia) Futrell; 4 sisters, Lucille Merritt, Eloise Perdue, Shirley Thomas, and Mary Ann Kirchoff; 2 brothers, Larry Mundorf and Neil Mundorf; 7 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, several step-grandchildren, several step-great-grandchildren and good friend/caregiver, Brenda Lillard.

She was preceded in death by her parents, siblings Calvin, Everett, Edwin, Dorothy, and infant Mundorf, and a great-grandchild.

Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Wednesday, August 25 in Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City with her grandson, Pastor David Murrell officiating. Burial will follow in Hartford City Cemetery.

Friends may call from 1-6 p.m. Tuesday, August 24 and Wednesday after 9 a.m. at the funeral home.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com

ELSIE M. LOVE

2010-07-16T22:14:00.000-07:00

HARTFORD CITY, IN

Elsie M. Love, 84, passed away Thursday, July 15, 2010 in Muncie Health & Rehabilitation Center.

The daughter of Albert and Anna (Price) Clamme, she was born October 10, 1925 in Hartford City. She graduated from Hartford City High School in 1942 and attended Ball State Teachers College. Elsie was a homemaker and loving wife and mother.

Elsie married Hansel S. Love in Indianapolis on August 11, 1946. His death occurred on April 17, 1995.

Her memberships include Zion Lutheran Church and Garden Club.

Survivors include: two sons, Les Love, Hartford City and Mark Love, Muncie; two daughters, Joan (Steve) Valente, North Carolina and Ann (Phillip) Gardner, Pendleton and a sister-in-law and good friend, Louanna Mossburg.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, three brothers, Paul, Norman, and Elmer Clamme and two sisters, Marguerite Willman and Ruth Willmann.

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Monday, July 19 in Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City with Pastor Mark Strietelmeier officiating. Burial will follow in Union Cemetery, Eaton.

Friends may call at the funeral home from 2-6 p.m. Sunday, July 18 and after 1 p.m. Monday.

Memorials may be sent to Zion Lutheran Church or Grant-Blackford Mental Health Association.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com.

MARTHA J. RISINGER

2010-07-16T07:48:00.001-07:00

HARTFORD CITY, IN

Martha J. Risinger, 93, passed away July 14, 2010 at her residence.

The daughter of Omer and Mary Jane (Taughinbaugh) Risinger, she was born March 30, 1917 in Hartford City. Martha graduated from Hartford City High School in 1935 and attended Ball State Teachers College.

Martha had worked as a bookkeeper for James P. Cronin, Jr. and Raymond Maddox in Hartford City and for Robert P. Cronin in Indianapolis. She was the Deputy County Treasurer under her father from 1937-1941. Later, she worked as the Secretary of Hartford City Chamber of Commerce and worked at the Blackford County Historical Museum.

Martha was a member of Grace United Methodist Church, Hartford City Cemetery Board and B.P.W.

Surviving are: two sisters, Kathryn (John) Wrestler, Montpelier, and Virginia Risinger, Hartford City, and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents and three brothers, Joseph, Robert and Edward Risinger.

Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Monday, July 19 in Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City. Burial will follow in Hartford City Cemetery.

Friends may call at the funeral home from 2-4 p.m. Sunday.

Memorials may be made to Grace United Methodist Church or Blackford Humane Society.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com.

BARBARA JEAN FORD

2010-07-01T16:52:00.002-07:00

HARTFORD CITY, IN

Barbara Jean Ford, 80, passed away Wednesday, June 30, 2010 in Blackford Community Hospital.

The daughter of Cecil Don and Frances (Bauer) Mc Vicker, she was born February 7, 1930 in Hartford City. She married Clayton I. Ford in Hartford City on June 2, 1946 and resided in Blackford County most of her life, except for 7 years in Portland.

A homemaker, Barbara was a member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, the Altar-Rosary Society, and Nimble Neighbors Home Ec Club.

Surviving are: her husband, Clayton; 3 sons, Dean (Claudia) Ford, Noblesville, Tracy (Janet) Ford, Louisville, Kentucky, and Kevin (Kelly) Ford, Houston, Texas; 2 daughters, Nancy Richardson, Hartford City and Susan (Ken) Thieme, Fort Wayne; daughter-in-law, Joyce Ford, Hartford City; a brother, John (Terry) Mc Vicker, Hartford City; a sister, Julia Weaver, Hartford City; 20 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, a son, former Indiana State Senator David C. Ford, a daughter, Kathy Denise Ford and a brother, Don Mc Vicker.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by Father Dave Newton at 11 a.m. Saturday, July 3 at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, 209 S. Spring St., Hartford City. Burial will follow in Hartford City Cemetery.

Friends may call at the Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City from 2-4 and 6-8 Friday, July 2 and 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. Saturday. The Christian Wake Service will be held at 4 p.m. Friday at the funeral home.

Memorials may be made to the David C. Ford Memorial Scholarship Fund, St. John’s Church or in the form of masses.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com

HUMBOLDT MURRELL, JR.

2010-07-01T16:52:00.001-07:00

HARTFORD CITY, IN

Humboldt Murrell, Jr., 86, passed away unexpectedly at his residence June 28, 2010.

The son of Humboldt, Sr. and Mary Elizabeth “Betty” (Hill) Murrell, he was born July 16, 1923 in Brownfield, Missouri and had resided in Hartford City since 1946.

He married Barbara Pickard on October 20, 1973 in Muncie. Her death occurred December 5, 2009.

Mr. Murrell had worked at Marhoefer Packing Co., Muncie and later worked for Dinner Bell Meats in Worthington, Indiana.

He was a veteran of WW II, serving in the Army Air Force.

His memberships include the American Legion Post #159 and Amvets Post # 23. .

Surviving are his children: Linda (Charles) Butcher, David (Mandy) Murrell, Frances (John) Hunt, Scott (Sheila) Murrell, Lester (companion, Edie) Murrell and Nikki (Dee) Murrell, all of Hartford City; 4 step-children, David, Margaret, and Charles Ellis and Susan (Jeff) Fisker; 15 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-grandchildren.

In addition to his wife and parents, he was preceded in death by 2 brothers and 2 sisters, Coleman Murrell, Earl Murrell, Melzena Breakfield, and Laverne Cansler and 14 half-brothers and sisters and a great-grandchild.

Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, July 2 in Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City with his grandson, Rev. David Murrell officiating. Burial will follow in Gardens of Memory, Muncie, with military graveside services conducted by Delaware County Veterans Organization.

Friends may call at the Waters Funeral Home from 1-6 p.m. Thursday, and 9-10 a.m. Friday.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com

CHARLES PRESTON HALL

2010-06-28T13:34:00.000-07:00

HARTFORD CITY, IN

Charles Preston Hall, 75, passed away Saturday, June 26, 2010 at Morrison Woods Health Campus, Muncie.

The son of George Melvin and Nellie (Jordan) Hall, he was born March 30, 1935 in Carter County, Kentucky. Moving to Hartford City in 1949, he married Mary Madonna (Donnie) Houseman on November 22, 1953. She survives.

Chuck worked at Stutz Manufacturing for several years, retiring in 2000.

Survivors include his wife, Donnie; a son, George G. (Lois) Hall, Hartford City; 2 daughters, Cheryl (Ernest) Hunt and Lori Hall, both of Hartford City; 7 grandchildren, Angela (Greg) Workman, Majenica Knox, Lindsey Pettit, Troy Williams, Austin (Jamie) Hall, Paul Andrew (Christie) Hall and Kristie Hall;9 great-grandchildren; 2 brothers, Lloyd Kenneth (Diane) Hall, Montpelier and George Franklin (Betty) Hall, Millgrove; a sister, Maxine Adkins, Hartford City and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, 3 brothers, John M., Ralph and George Melvin Hall and 4 sisters, Anna Hess, Beulah Litteral, Geraldine Hess and Norma Allen.

Funeral services will be conducted at 2 p.m. Wednesday, June 30 at Apostolic Tabernacle, 1318 S. Jefferson St., Hartford City with Pastor Jerald Shelby officiating.
Burial will follow in Hartford City Cemetery.

Friends may call at the Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City from 5-8 p.m. Tuesday, June 29 and one hour prior to services Wednesday at the church.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com

JANET SUE LANNOY

2010-06-28T13:32:00.000-07:00

HARTFORD CITY, IN

Janet “Jan” Sue Lannoy, 67, passed away Thursday, June 24, 2010 in Ball Memorial Hospital.

The daughter of Harry and Dona (Miller) Hensley, she was born August 5, 1942 in Trafalgar, Indiana. Jan graduated from Trafalgar High School in 1960. After her parents passed away, she lived with her brother John and his wife, Roberta in Jonesboro. Jan attended Ball Memorial Hospital School of Nursing, graduating in 1963, and worked as a registered nurse at Blackford County Hospital for 35 years, retiring in 1998.

Jan married Joseph R. Lannoy in Hartford City on August 17, 1963. His death occurred on March 23, 2004.

She was a member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, the Altar & Rosary Society and BPW.

Survivors include a son, Joseph Michael Lannoy (companion, April Day), Hartford City, grandchildren, Jonathon Michael Norton, Robert Rene Lannoy and Kendall Day, a sister-in-law, Roberta Hensley, North Carolina and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, a daughter, Dianne Lannoy, and two brothers, John and James Hensley.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by Father Dave Newton at 10 a.m. Tuesday, June 29 in St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, 209 S. Spring St., Hartford City. Burial will follow in Hartford City Cemetery.

Friends may call at Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City from 4-7 p.m. Monday, June 28 and Tuesday from 9-9:30 a.m. The Christian Wake service will be at 4 p.m. Monday at the funeral home.

Memorials may be made to the church in the form of masses.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com

CHERYL J. DUFFY

2010-06-21T11:14:00.001-07:00

Hartford City, IN

Cheryl J. Duffy, 63, passed away Sunday, June 20, 2010 in the Blackford Community Hospital Emergency Room.

Cheryl was born December 12, 1946 in Fount, Kentucky, the daughter of Pierce and Lucy (Rowland) Smith.

She grew up in Dayton, Ohio and graduated from Meadowdale High School, Trotwood, Ohio. On September 2, 1967, she married Michael Duffy in Dayton, Ohio. She had resided in Blackford County since 2000.

Cheryl was the Department Co-coordinator for the School of Architecture at Ball State University, retiring on March 1, 2009. She was well-respected by her co-workers and was nominated for the Jane Morton Award for outstanding service at the university.

Her major interests were gardening, family and arts & crafts.

Cheryl was a member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, Hartford City.

Survivors include her husband, Michael; her mother, Lucy Smith, Hartford City; one son, Damon Duffy, Hartford City; one daughter Dana (Caleb) Williams, Yorktown; one brother, Robert (Stephanie) Hammons, Centerville, Ohio; one sister, Norma (Advus) Hudson, Dayton, Ohio; and one granddaughter, Stella Williams.

Cheryl will be cremated with a memorial mass at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family for expenses.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com

WILLIAM BLAINE SWOVELAND

2010-06-20T08:15:00.000-07:00

HARTFORD CITY, IN

William Blaine Swoveland, 90, passed away at 7:05 p.m. Thursday, June 17, 2010 at Millers Merry Manor.

Blaine was born in Blackford County on March 25, 1920, the second of three sons, to William Henry and Crystalo (Michael) Swoveland. A 1938 graduate of Eaton High School, he was an Army Air Corps Veteran of World War II.

His marriage to Dorothy Schmidt occurred on September 10, 1944 in Zion Lutheran Church, Hartford City.

A lifelong farmer of this county, he retired from farming in 1985. Blaine served as County Commissioner for eleven years and served on the County Council for seven years.

In addition to his service to his church, country, and local government, Blaine was a member of Indiana Farm Bureau, the Blackford County Fair Board, the American Legion Post #159, AMVETS Post #23, and the Blackford County Coon Hunters Club.

An avid fisherman, Blaine enjoyed spending the winter months in Florida.

He is survived by his wife, Dorothy (Schmidt) Swoveland; four daughters, Anita Reid, Hartford City, Mary (Mrs. Richard) Cary, Loudon, TN, Judith (Mrs. Max) Wiesnenauer, Georgetown, IN and Patricia Gaither, Hartford City; eight grandchildren, Holly Underwood, Brad Reid, Dr. Chad Wiesenauer, Jason Wiesenauer, Mike Gaither, Elizabeth Dennison, Kimberli Withrow and Aimee Wilson; 19 great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a grandson, Dustin Reid on December 30, 2007, two brothers, Ferdinand in 1980 and Rex in 1990.

Funeral services will be at 10 a.m., Monday, June 21 in Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City with Pastor Mark Strietelmeier and Rev. Lloyd Hall officiating. Burial will follow at Union Cemetery, Eaton, with military graveside rites by Delaware County Veterans Organization.

Friends may call from 1-5 p.m. Sunday and one hour prior to service on Monday at the funeral home.

Memorials may be made to the Zion Lutheran Church 308 S. Monroe St., Hartford City, IN 47348.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com

Stephen E. Cook

2010-06-17T13:55:00.000-07:00

HARTFORD CITY, IN

Stephen E. Cook, 72, passed away Wednesday, June 16, 2010 in Anderson.

He was born August 21, 1937 in Anderson, the son of Lee Edward and Madeline (Kimm) Cook. At the age of nine he moved to Washington, graduating from Everett High School in1955. Steve returned to Indiana in 1955 and attended Ball State University. He was a graduate of University Commercial Lending School.

Steve was an Army veteran serving from 1957-1960 and had served in the Annapolis Armed Security Agency.

He was employed at First Financial Bank, Hartford City from 1962 -2001, retiring as Senior Vice-President.

Steve married Virginia Dant on September 14, 1963 in St. Ambrose Catholic Church, Anderson.

He was a life member of Robert Morris and Associates, President of Wabash Valley Bankers, Board Member & Treasurer of Blackford Community Hospital, Board Member of Ball Memorial Hospital Foundation, Chairman of Hartford City Revolving Loan Board. He was also a member of Blackford Country Club, Kiwanis Club, and Jayland Antique Auto Club.

Surviving are: a son, Mark (Sandi) Cook, Fishers; 2 grandchildren, Anthony and Lee Cook; and Virginia Cook, Anderson.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Norma Smith.

Funeral services will be conducted at 2 p.m. Tuesday, June 22 in Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City with Rev. Lloyd Hall officiating. Burial will follow in Hartford City Cemetery.

Friends may call at Waters Funeral Home from 4-8 p.m. Monday, June 21 and after 1 p.m. Tuesday.

Memorials may be sent to Blackford County Cancer Support, c/o Blackford Community Foundation, P. O. Box 327, Hartford City, IN 47348.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com

MARTHA L. ELLIOTT

2010-06-06T17:02:00.000-07:00

HARTFORD CITY, IN

Martha L. Elliott, 92, passed away Friday, June 4, 2010 at Bluffton Regional Medical Center.

The daughter of Harley and Millie (Boxell) Banter, she was born March 25, 1918 in Wells County. She married Floyd K. Elliott in Hartford City on July 19, 1937. He survives.

Martha was a member of the First Presbyterian Church, Hartford City and the TTF Bridge Club. She worked as a clerk for many years at G. C. Murphy’s retiring in 1972.

Survivors include: her husband, Floyd, Warren; a daughter, Nancy (Roger) Falk, Roll; a son, Dallas (Laura) Elliott, Wilmington, NC; five grandchildren, Todd (Carlene) Falk, Lance (Lori) Falk, Jodie (Steve) Labordus, Andrew (Abby) Elliott and Lindsey Elliott;12 great-grandchildren; two sisters, Lorada Weatherholt, Montpelier and Lillian (Clarence) Murphy, Noblesville; two brothers, Leo Banter, Warsaw and James (Beverly) Banter, Hartford City.

She was preceded in death by her parents and two brothers, Leon and Lester Banter.

Funeral services will be at 2 p.m. Tuesday, June 8 in Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City with Pastor David Smith presiding. Burial will follow in Gardens of Memory, Muncie.

Friends may call at the funeral home from 12 noon - 2 p.m. Tuesday.

Memorials may be sent to First Presbyterian Church, 117 W. Franklin St., Hartford City, IN 47348.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com

Bertha B. Monfort

2010-06-04T11:42:00.000-07:00

HARTFORD CITY, IN

Bertha B. Monfort, 92, passed away June 4, 2010 at her residence.

The daughter of William E. and Leona (Andre) Knecht, she was born December 28, 1917 in Hartford City. She graduated from Hartford City High School in 1936 and worked at Franklin Security Company in Hartford City and Louisville, Kentucky. Bert married John W. Monfort on August 30, 1941. His death occurred April 28, 1981.

John was the owner/publisher of the Hartford City News-Times and Bert worked as Women’s Editor until retiring in 1993. She continued to write a weekly column, “Bert’s Beat” until summer 2009.

Bert was a member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, the Altar-Rosary Society, Blackford County Hospital Auxiliary, Friends of the Library and Blackford Golf Club. She was a former board member of Blackford Community Foundation, Tri Kappa Sorority and was a founding member of Board of Governors of Minnetrista Cultural Center, Muncie.

Survivors include her children: David W. (Winne) Monfort, Honaunau, Hawaii, Suzan M. Monfort, Duvall, Washington, Katherine Ann “Kam” (Michael) Martin, Littleton, Colorado, Colonel Ralph D. Monfort, retired, Albuquerque, New Mexico, Mary M. Monfort, Englewood, Colorado, and Elizabeth A. Monfort, Duvall, Washington; seven grandchildren, Christopher Monfort, John (Laura) Martin, James Martin, Kristine (Max)
Schillinger, Kawika Monfort Chang, Joseph A. Monfort and Amelia Ruth; four great-grandchildren, Sara and Felix Martin, Alex and Anna Schillinger; and one brother, Joseph (Monica) Knecht, Monroeville, Indiana.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, two sisters, Marie Ravaux and Wilma Lord, and three brothers, William, Russell and Robert Knecht.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by Father Robert Williams at 10 a.m. Tuesday, June 8 in St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, 209 S. Spring St., Hartford City. Burial will follow in Hartford City Cemetery.

Friends may call at the Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City from 2- 4 and 6-8 p.m. Monday, June 7 and from 8:30-9:30 a.m. Tuesday .

Memorials may be sent to Blackford Community Foundation.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com

BILLIE E. (FRAHM) WALTON

2010-05-28T20:08:00.000-07:00

Hartford City, Indiana

Billie E. (Frahm) Walton, 90, died Wednesday, May 26, 2010 at Peabody Retirement Community, North Manchester.

Mrs. Walton was born March 5, 1920 in Auglaize County, Ohio to Herbert A. and Helen C. (Brecount) Frahm. She graduated from Hartford City High School in 1937 and received degrees from Moody Bible Institute, Chicago and Hartnell College, Salinas, Kansas. She worked with Wycliffe Bible Translators in Peru, South America from 1952-1962. Billie also worked as a legal secretary.

Billie married Miles P. Walton in Los Angeles, California on June 13, 1966. His death occurred February 20, 1990. In 1998 she moved to North Manchester.

Her memberships include Salinas Valley Community Church, Lydians Missionary Group, and Legal Secretary’s Association all of Salinas, California.

Survivors include a step-son, Douglas Walton and a step-daughter, Barbara (Christopher) Nelson, both of California and one sister, Joyce (William) Musselman, North Manchester.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, four brothers, Herbert, Bruce, Robert and Richard Frahm and two sisters, Jean Frahm and Janet Simmons.

Graveside services will be held at the Hartford City Cemetery at 11 a.m. Tuesday, June 1 with Pastor Sue Babovec officiating.

Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St. Hartford City is handling arrangements.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com

Richie L. Nuckols

2010-05-17T10:36:00.000-07:00

HARTFORD CITY, IN

Richie L. Nuckols, 63, passed away unexpectedly Saturday, May 15, 2010 at his residence.

The son of Everett and Ruth (Hatch) Nuckols, he was born March 21, 1947 in Portland. He graduated from Dunkirk High School in 1965 and then served in the Army.

Richie worked at 3-M and retired from Borg Warner after over 30 years of employment, and was the former owner of the Scotch Mist Restaurant. He was a member of Blackford Lodge #106 F&AM, Scottish Rite Valley of Indianapolis, Shrine Club, Elks Lodge #625, Amvets Post #23 and was a life member of the American Legion Post #159.

Surviving are: 3 sons, Richie Ty (Chriss) Nuckols, Matthew Nuckols and Marcus Nuckols; a daughter, Cynthia (Jayson)Lytle; 3 sisters, Karen McDaniels, Judy (Lee) Dobbels and Lenora Faine; 8 grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Regina (Batten) Nuckols and his parents.

Funeral services will be conducted at 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, May 19 in the Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City. Burial will follow in Twin Hills Cemetery, Pennville.

Friends may call from 6-8 p.m. Tuesday, May 18 and one hour prior to services on Wednesday. Masonic services will be conducted at 8 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home.

Memorials may be sent to the Shriners Hospitals for Children with envelopes available at the funeral home.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com.

V. June Storer

2010-05-16T09:36:00.000-07:00

HARTFORD CITY, IN

V. June Storer, 82, went to be with her Lord on Friday, May 14, 2010 at her residence.

The daughter of Dale and Lora “Sis” (Bergdoll) Burnworth, she was born November 22, 1927 in Blackford County. She graduated from Hartford City High School in 1946 and married Robert Junior Storer on March 29, 1947. His death occurred on October 2, 2003.

A domestic engineer (homemaker), June was a member of Trinity United Methodist Church and involved in many church activities. She was a member of several Euchre clubs and the Senior Citizens Group.

Surviving are: one son, Greg (Soneta) Storer, Hartford City; one daughter, Kim (David) Wilson, Marion; one brother, Donald (Lila) Burnworth, Hartford City; five grandchildren, Michael and Travis (Amy) Storer, Kim Cansler and David and
Anne Wilson; five great-grandchildren, Trey, Tylar and Bentley Storer, Chase Cansler and Cameron Watt.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. Monday, May 17 in Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City with Pastor Phil Abrams and Pastor Dustin Jones officiating. Burial will be made in Gardens of Memory, Muncie.

Friends may call from 1-4 p.m. Sunday and 9-10 a.m. Monday at Waters Funeral Home.

Memorials may be made to Trinity United Methodist Church or Blackford County Cancer Support Group, c/o Blackford Community Foundation, P.O. Box 327, Hartford City, IN.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com.

FRANCIS X. CHARNLEY

2010-04-07T08:59:00.001-07:00

Hartford City, IN

Francis X. Charnley, 57, died unexpectedly Tuesday, April 6 at his residence.

The son of Ross and Rita (Pursley) Charnley, he was born July 29, 1952 in Hartford City and graduated from Blackford High School in 1972. He lived most of his life in Hartford City except for a few years in Oklahoma. He married Bonnie Sue Terhune in Hartford City on July 3, 1977. Her death occurred July 22, 2005.

Francis worked several years at Vargo’s Bakery, Hartford City, and served as lead cook and baker for 16 years at Creative Dining, Taylor University.

Mr. Charnley was a member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church and the Sons of Amvets Post #23.

Surviving are: his mother, Rita; a step-son, Mike Potarf, OK; a step-daughter, Debbie Clayton, OK; five brothers, Rick (Dixie), Nick (Janet), Mark (Robin), Vincent, all of Hartford City, and Geno (Marlena Jo), Angola; three sisters, Mary (Gary) Vandebur, Montpelier, Teresa (John) Rouse, Hartford City and Judy Smith, California and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by his father, a sister, Anne Benedict and a step-daughter, Kelli Clayton.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Friday, April 9 in St. John the Evangelist Church, 209 S. Spring St., Hartford City with Father Dave Newton as celebrant.

Friends may call at the Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City from 6-8 p.m. Thursday, April 8 and from 9-9:30 a.m. on Friday. A Christian Wake Service will be at 6 p.m. Thursday.

Memorials may be made in the form of masses or to the Building Fund at St. John’s Church.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com.

PHYLLIS E. (ELWOOD) FLYNN

2010-04-05T14:52:00.001-07:00

Muncie, Indiana

Phyllis E. (Elwood) Flynn, 59, Muncie, passed away peacefully Saturday, April 3, 2010 in Ball Memorial Hospital, after a brief illness.

The daughter of Odus M. and A. Irene (Murray) Elwood, she was born December 31, 1950 in Hartford City. She graduated from Hartford City High School in 1969. Phyllis married David A. Flynn on November 12, 1988 in Muncie.

She worked as a pharmacy technician at Marsh Pharmacy on Walnut Street for 18 years and loved her job. She enjoyed all that life had to offer up to an including singing and dancing to all genres of music (especially oldies), spending time with her pals from the Oasis, the “Girls” from Hartford City, Indianapolis Colts, evenings on the deck and spending time with her husband, family, kids and grandkids. Phyllis was a dog lover and was an avid Keno player, wherever she could find a machine. She was a woman who knew how to laugh, more importantly, how to love.

Surviving are: her husband, David A. Flynn, Muncie; four children, Todd Strahan (wife, Teresa), Aaron Russell (fiancée, Paula), Lindsay Haney (husband, Eric) and Amber Russell (companion, Dennis); a sister, Nancy Edwards (husband, Don); two brothers, Michael Elwood (wife, Barbara) and her twin, Phillip Elwood (wife, Tina); six grandchildren, Shayna Cline, Quintin Beaty, Tyler Haney, Kyzick and Elijah Strahan and Jacob Southard and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents and a sister, Donna Perry.

Funeral services will be conducted at 12 noon Thursday, April 8 in the Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City. Burial will be made at a later date in the Hartford City Cemetery.

Friends may call at Waters Funeral Home from 4-7 p.m. Wednesday, April 7 and after 11 a.m. Thursday.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Little Red Door Cancer Fund or Animal Rescue Fund, Muncie.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com.

MAX E. MURRAY

2010-04-03T07:56:00.000-07:00

HARTFORD CITY, INDIANA

Max E. Murray, 66, Indianapolis, died Thursday, April, 1, 2010 in Kindred Hospital South, Greenwood.

The son of Rex Dwight and Doris (Heckley) Murray, he was born June 15, 1943 in Wells County. He was raised near Pennville and graduated from Poling High School in 1961.

A resident of Indianapolis since 1978, Mr. Murray was a salesman for Hardi Farm Equipment.

Survivors include: his mother, Doris Murray, Pennville; one son, Hartford City Fire Chief Bret (Jara) Murray, Hartford City; two daughters, Stephanie (Roger) Kellogg, Columbia City and Sylvia Hubbard, Lakeland, FL; one brother, Bruce Murray, Pennville; one sister, Janet Ramseyer, Montpelier and six grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his father.

Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Tuesday, April 6 in Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City with Pastor Larry Berry officiating. Burial will follow in Hartford City Cemetery.

Friends may call at Waters Funeral Home from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Monday, April 5 and after 9 a.m. Tuesday.

The family requests memorials be made to the Hartford City Cemetery, P. O. Box 66, Hartford City, IN 47348.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com.

Opal I. Lord, 83

2010-03-26T13:04:00.000-07:00

HARTFORD CITY, IN

Opal I. Lord, 83, former Mayor of Hartford City, passed away, Friday, March 26, 2010 in Miller’s Merry Manor in Wabash.

The daughter of George Sr. and Gertrude Josephine (Johnson) Wallace, she was born January 9, 1927 in Dunkirk, Indiana. She was a graduate of Hartford City High School, class of 1945. Opal married Charles Franklin Lord on November 15, 1946 in Dunkirk. He preceded her in death on August 30, 1981.

In addition to being the Mayor of Hartford City from 1996 to 2000, she was also active in the Republican State Central Committee, appointed by Governors Whitcomb, Orr, and Bowen. She was the Republican Party Chairman in Blackford County for many years and also a 50 year member and Past Worthy Matron of Purity Chapter #126, Order of Eastern Star.

Mrs. Lord worked for the Bureau of Motor Vehicles as a branch manager for 16 years, as well as, 10 years as the hearing officer at the BMV.

Surviving is her son, K.M. Lord (wife, Ruth), of Somerset, brother Walter Wallace (wife, Janet), of Hartford City, sisters-in-law, Vera Wallace, of Kokomo, and Alyce Wallace, of Nebraska, as well as many nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by two brothers, Wendall Wallace and George Wallace, a sister, Sarah Sutton and her husband Bud Sutton.

Funeral services will be conducted at 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, March 30, 2010 in the Grace United Methodist Church, 312 W. Washington St., Hartford City, with Rev. Dr. Gary Hall presiding. Burial will follow in Buckles Cemetery, west of Dunkirk in Niles Township, Delaware County.

Friends may call at Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St. Hartford City, on Monday, March 29, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. and one hour prior to services at the church on Tuesday. An Eastern Star service will be held at 7:00 p.m. on Monday at the funeral home.

Her family asks that due to dietary restrictions, please do not send food to the house but instead expressions of sympathy to be in the form of memorials.

Memorials may be made to the American Diabetes Association or any church of the donor’s choice.

Online condolences may be made at www.watersfuneralhomes.com.

EMMA JEAN MC FEELY

2010-03-01T16:37:00.000-08:00

Emma Jean Mc Feely, 79, died unexpectedly Sunday morning, February 28, 2010, in the home of her daughter.

The daughter of Earl B. and Lora May (Legue) Clendenin, she was born March 13, 1930, in Hand County, South Dakota. She resided in Blackford County most of her life except for a few years in Jennings County and Eaton.

Emma married Ira H. (Mac) Mc Feely, Jr. in Hartford City on June 29, 1946. His death occurred February 23, 1983.

Survivors include: 4 daughters, Sharon Gray, Muncie, Linda (William) Elliott, Eaton, Debra (Timothy) Dragoo, Eaton and Denise (Richard) Bacon, Hartford City; 9 grandchildren, Charles Gray, Jr., Steven Gray, Shawn Dragoo, Matthew Dragoo, William Bacon, Richard Bacon, Jr., Julie Maxwell, Diana Miller and Melissa Booher; and 13 great-grandchildren.

In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by a brother, Robert Clendenin.

Funeral services will be conducted at 11 a.m. Friday, March 5, 2010 in the Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City, with Rev. Raymond Lake officiating. Burial will follow in Gardens of Memory, Muncie.

Visitation will be Thursday, March 4 from 4-7 p.m. at Waters Funeral Home and one hour prior to services on Friday.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com.

EVERETT S. HOWARD

2010-02-23T07:45:00.000-08:00

Everett S. Howard, 72, passed away Sunday, February 21, 2010 in Ball Memorial Hospital.

He was born October 20, 1937 in Upland, the son of Stephen and Dorothy (Futrell) Howard and was a graduate of Jefferson Township High School. An Army veteran he had served in Germany and was in the National Guard after his discharge.

Everett married Janet E. Wright on February 13, 1960 in Eaton and resided most of his life in Hartford City. He retired from 3-M Co., Hartford City, and enjoyed working on watches and other timepieces.

He attended Grace United Methodist Church and was a member of 3-M Retirees Club and Timeless Treasures Group.

Survivors include: his wife, Janet; a son, Michael Howard, Upland; a daughter, Mari Howard, Hartford City; a grandson, Michael Downam; a granddaughter, Elizabeth Klara Howard; and one sister, Patty Whybrew, Upland.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a daughter-in-law, Donna Howard in 1999, two brothers, John Douglas Howard and James Howard, and one sister, Kathleen Price.

Funeral services will be conducted at 10:30 a.m. Friday, February 26 in the Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City with Rev. Lloyd Hall presiding.
Burial will follow in Union Cemetery, Eaton with military rites by Delaware County Veterans Organization.

Visitation will be Thursday, February 25 from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. and one hour prior to services Friday at the funeral home.

Memorials may be sent to Grace United Methodist Church or Blackford Community Foundation with envelopes available at the funeral home.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com.

CHARLES J. “BUD” CARLL

2010-02-20T09:32:00.000-08:00

Charles J. “Bud” Carll, 82, passed away Thursday, February 18, 2010, in Ball Memorial Hospital.

The son of Robert and Ethel (Lanning) Carll, he was born March 20, 1927 in Blackford County. On April 17, 1947 he married Carolyn Pogue and lived in Blackford County, later moving to Upland.

Bud served his country in the U. S. Marine Corps during the Korean War. He owned the Chevrolet dealership in Upland from 1958-1962. He also worked for 31 years as a truck driver delivering milk from farms to the dairy.

Mr. Carll was a member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church and the American Legion, Upland, and had played minor league baseball in North Carolina.

Surviving are: one daughter, Kim (James) Puckett, New River, AZ; three grandsons, Silas Barton Carll-Puckett, David Guin Puckett III, and Andrew Paul Puckett; four great-grandchildren; a brother, Robert (Anna) Carll, Hartford City; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, a brother, Leo Carll, and two sisters, Mary Alice Bowman and Virginia Lee Carll.

A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Wednesday, February 24 in St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, 209 S. Spring St., Hartford City with Father Dave Newton as celebrant. Burial will be made at a later date in Park Cemetery, Greenfield.

Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City, is handling the arrangements.

There will be no visitation.

Memorials may be sent to Blackford County Animal Shelter or masses to the church.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com.

Mary Esther Wood

2010-01-30T19:38:00.000-08:00

Hartford City, IN

Mary Esther Wood, 81, passed away Thursday, January 28, 2010, in Miller's Merry Manor.

The daughter of Albert Vernon and Wilda Cynthia (Lanning) Wood, she was born May 5, 1928 in Hartford City and was a life resident of this community. She was a 1947 graduate of Hartford City High School.

Mary Esther worked at the Citizens State Bank (now First Financial) for over 46 years, retiring December 31, 1993 after holding many positions at the bank.

She was a member and past president of Delta Theta Tau Sorority (Nu Chapter), National Association of Bank Women, former member of Business and Professional Women, and had been treasurer and a director of Dollars for Scholars.

Surviving are: two cousins, Carl (Ruth) Townsend, Cedar Ridge, Colorado and Richard Wilson, Ohio; special friends and caregivers, Lee and Leroy Huckleberry and Maxie and Bill Malott, all of Hartford City.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by an aunt, Mary Townsend.

Funeral services will be at 11a.m. Thursday, February 4, 2010 in Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City with Rev. Lloyd Hall officiating. Private burial will follow in the Hartford City Cemetery.

Friends may call from 4-7 p.m. Wednesday, February 3 and 9-11 Thursday at the funeral home.

Memorials may be sent to: Blackford Community Foundation, or Family Hospice of Berne.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com.

John R. Ervin

2010-01-30T19:30:00.000-08:00

JOHN R. ERVIN

HARTFORD CITY, IN

John R. Ervin, 73, passed away Thursday, January 28, 2010, in Methodist Hospital, Indianapolis.

The son of Guy W. and Marie Josephine (Thiel) Ervin, he was born October 16, 1936 in Marion.

John married Bonnie J. Brammer on October 22, 1955. Her death occurred on November 3, 1997. He married Phyllis Smith Webber on July 10, 1999 in Hartford City. She also preceded him in death.

John was a Staff Sergeant in the Indiana National Guard for over 20 years. He had worked as custodian at the National Guard Armory for several years, retiring in 1998.

He had attended the First Christian Church, was a member of Blackford Lodge #106 F& AM, Scottish Rite, Purity Chapter #126, Order of Eastern Star, Amvets Post #23, Hartford City, Van Buren American Legion, and was a former member of the Gas City Masonic Lodge.

Surviving are: a son, R. Joe (Cindy) Ervin, Hartford City; 3 daughters, Charlene Fischer (Toby Hoskins), Salem, VA, Debbie Townsend (Dan Gibson), Montpelier, and Brenda (Jacob) Freeman, Hartford City; 7 grandchildren, Amy (Troy) Sutton, Jessica (Jarrod) Whitesell, Jeremy Bond, Cody Fischer, Heather, Amanda and Jared Ervin; 3 great-grandchildren, Trace, Trayton, and Treavan Sutton.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a grandson, Joshawa Johnson.

Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Tuesday, February 2, 2010 in the Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City with Pastor Tom Parsons presiding. Burial will follow in Hartford City Cemetery with military graveside rites.

Friends may call at the funeral home from 6-8 p.m. Monday, February 1 and one hour prior to services Tuesday.

Masonic Services will be held at 7:30 p.m. Monday in the funeral home.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com.

Timothy G. Tatman

2010-01-30T19:28:00.000-08:00

HARTFORD CITY, IN

Timothy G. Tatman, 51, passed away Tuesday, January 26, 2010 at his residence.

The son of Bill L. Tatman, Sr. and Phoebe J. (Hudson) Tatman, he was born October 7, 1958 in Hartford City. He graduated from Blackford High School and lived most of his life in Hartford City except for 2 ½ years in Sarasota, Florida. He had worked recently as a bartender at the Elks Lodge, Hartford City.

Survivors include: a sister, Nancy Lenfestey (companion, Jerry Robbins), Hartford City; nieces and nephews, Lisa (Paul) Shanayda, Muncie, Darrin Lenfestey, Hartford City, Seth (Leeann) Tatman, Matthews, Jamie (Jodi) Tatman, Wendy Stiles and Stephanie (Rob) Hess, all of Hartford City; great nieces and great nephews, Sidney, Blake and Preston Shanayda, Brayson Tatman, Savannah and Tyler Stiles, Brady Hess, and Jenna and Jacee Tatman; two aunts, Datha Daniels and Anna Lee Lowery, both of Redkey.

He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Billie Tatman, Jr. and James Allen Tatman.

Funeral services will be at 2 p.m. Monday, February 1, 2010 at Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City with Rev. Lloyd Hall officiating. Burial will be made at a later date in Hartford City Cemetery.

Friends may call at the funeral home from noon to 2 p.m. Monday.

Memorials may be made to Animal Rescue Fund (A.R.F.), 1209 W. Riggin Rd., Muncie, IN 47303 or the Hartford City Cemetery, P.O. Box 66, Hartford City, IN 47348.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com.

Marybel Wesner Shook

2010-01-27T12:21:00.000-08:00

Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Marybel Wesner Shook, 95, former longtime resident of Hartford City, died Sunday, January 24, 2010, in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

She was born December 2, 1914 in Dunkirk, Indiana, the daughter of James and Octavia (Jenkins) Coughlin. Mrs. Shook graduated from Dunkirk High School in 1933 and attended the Ball State School of Nursing in Muncie, Indiana.

She married Carl N. Wesner on July 12, 1940. Mr. Wesner’s death occurred on January 28, 1972. She married Donald E. Shook on August 9, 1976. Mr. Shook’s death occurred on March 22, 1994.

A homemaker, Mrs. Shook was a member of the Grace United Methodist Church, Blackford Country Club, past president and honorary member of Psi Iota Xi Sorority.

Surviving are: two daughters, Jane Lewis, Indianapolis and Sharon Lahti (husband Erik), Fort Lauderdale, Florida; three grandchildren, Michael Lewis (wife Heidi), Kathryn Lewis, and Megan Sams (husband Timothy), all of Indianapolis; three great-grandchildren, Morgan Lewis, Lewis Sams, and Bo Sams, all of Indianapolis; and one sister-in-law, Marie Coughlin, Minneapolis, Minnesota.

Mrs. Shook was preceded in death by her brothers, Fred Coughlin and wife Pat and Ernest Coughlin.

Funeral services will be Saturday, January 30, 2010 at 11:30 a.m. at the Grace United Methodist Church, 312 W. Washington St., Hartford City with Rev. Lloyd Hall officiating. Entombment will follow at Elm Ridge Mausoleum, Muncie.

Friends may call at the Grace United Methodist Church on Saturday from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m.

Memorials may be made to Grace United Methodist Church, 312 W. Washington St., Hartford City, Indiana 47348.

Waters Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com.

Martha J. Swoveland

2010-01-22T11:54:00.000-08:00

HARTFORD CITY, IN

Martha J. Swoveland, 86, widow of former Hartford City Mayor Rex Swoveland, passed away Thursday, January 21, 2010 in Ball Memorial Hospital, Muncie.

She was born in Hartford City on March 2, 1923, the daughter of Marion and Edna (Kline) Thomas. She was a 1941 graduate of Hartford City High School. A life resident of Hartford City, she married Rex Swoveland on May 28, 1942 in Hartford City. His death occurred on July 31, 1990. .

Surviving are: a daughter, Susy (Fred) Tobey, Hartford City; 2 sons, Paul (Laura) Swoveland, Charlotte, NC, and Tim Swoveland, Fort Wayne; a sister, Nancy Willmann, Hartford City; 6 grandchildren, Lynne Dee, Marc, Matt, Jennifer, Angie, and Max; also several great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, parents, 2 brothers, Robert and William Thomas and a sister, Becky Smith.

At Martha’s request, services will be for the family only. Burial will be made in Gardens of Memory, Muncie.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Waters Funeral Home.

Memorials may be made to the donor’s favorite charity.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com.

O. JEAN VAN HORN

2010-01-18T06:05:00.000-08:00

HARTFORD CITY, IN

O. Jean Van Horn, 83, passed away Sunday, January 17, 2010, in Miller’s Merry Manor, Hartford City.

She was born April 28, 1926 in Muncie, the daughter of Lester and Mary (Watson-Falby) Van Horn. A 1944 graduate of Hartford City High School, she graduated from Taylor University and received her masters degree at Ball State University.

A teacher for over 40 years, she had taught at Muncie, Montpelier, Taylor University, and Coloma, Michigan.

Jean was a member of the First Christian Church and the Retired Teachers Association.

Surviving are: a brother, Robert Van Horn, Hartford City; several nieces and nephews and great-nieces and great-nephews.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a brother, Donald Van Horn and sisters, Vera Denton and Doris Chipman.

Funeral services will be conducted at 10 a.m. Wednesday, January 20, 2010 in the Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City. Burial will follow in Gardens of Memory, Muncie.

Friends may call at the Waters Funeral Home from 5-7 p.m. Tuesday and after 9 a.m. Wednesday.

The family requests memorials be made to the First Christian Church.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com.

Kathryn Hollis Dee

2010-01-16T21:04:00.000-08:00

Minnetonka, Minnesota

Kathryn Hollis Dee, 94, former Dunkirk and Hartford City resident, passed away Tuesday, January 11, 2010, at the Methodist Hospital in St. Louis Park, Minnesota. She resided in Minnesota for the last thirty years, the last eleven, living independently, at the Beacon Hill Presbyterian Residence in Minnetonka, Minnesota. She was the widow of Leo Richard Dee who preceded her in death on August 17, 1962. They were proprietors of the Dee's Hardware stores in Dunkirk and Hartford City from 1945 until 1964. She was a former member of St. Mary's Catholic Church, Dunkirk, and an employee of Kerr Glass Corp., Dunkirk from 1966 until 1969.

Born March 18, 1915, in Hartford City, she was the daughter of Arthur Clement Hollis and Mabel Gardiner Hollis. She was one of five children: Samuel Hollis, Helen Hollis Tidd, Elizabeth Hollis King, Kathryn Hollis Dee and Aldah Hollis Robbins.

Kathryn loved and was devoted to her family, enjoyed their company and traveled often over the years to be with them. She was an avid golfer and remained an enthusiastic fan. She enjoyed reading, playing cards and throughout her life, was committed to regular exercise.

She leaves two sons, L. Richard Dee and wife, Karen (Coughlin) of Chaska, Minnesota, and Arthur Hollis Dee and wife, Bonnie (Grayson) of Frederick, Maryland. She was the grandmother of Lori Dee Reeburgh and husband, Scott, Kristen Dee Tierney and husband, Cronin, Elizabeth Dee, Meghan Dee Ewin and husband, Joshua; three great grandchildren, Jack and Claire Reeburgh, and Thomas Ewin and many nieces and nephews. She is survived by one sister, Elizabeth Hollis King of Hamilton, Montana.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Monday, January 18 at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, 209 S. Spring St., Hartford City with Father Dave Newton as celebrant. Burial will follow in the Hartford City Cemetery.

Friends may call from 2-4 p.m. Sunday, January 17 and 9-10:30 a.m. Monday at Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City. A Christian Wake Service will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home.

If desired, the family requests that remembrances be made in her name to: Immaculate Heart of Mary, Ministry of Care, 13505 Excelsior Blvd., Minnetonka, MN 55345, or the organization/charity of your choice.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com.

James M. Fawns

2009-12-26T12:56:00.000-08:00

HARTFORD CITY, IN

James M. Fawns, 82, passed away Friday, December 25, 2009 in Blackford Community Hospital.

The son of James and Bertha (Bradar) Fawns, he was born February 6, 1927 in Salt Lick, Kentucky. He married Betty Scott on April 7, 1955 and her death occurred November 29, 1974. He then married Rena Shaw on June 2, 1979. She survives.

Jim served in the Army during World War II. He worked as a foreman at Hartford Glass, retiring May 2, 1990.

He was a life member of the Moose Lodge and a former member of the American Legion.

Survivors include: his wife, Rena; one daughter, Joanna (Ben) Bell, Hartford City; four grandchildren, Jackson, Madison, Xander and Bristol Bell, all of Hartford City; several nieces and nephews, including special nephew, Mike(Patty) Fawns.

He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, John and Charles Fawns, and a sister, Ethel Schaferling.

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Wednesday, December 30 in Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City with Rev. Bobby Thomas officiating. Burial will follow in Hartford City Cemetery.

Friends may call Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials to Alzheimers Association, ALS Association or to the family.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com.

Ann B. Brown

2009-12-26T08:33:00.000-08:00

HARTFORD CITY, INDIANA

Ann B. Brown, 81, passed away Saturday, December 19, 2009, at River Ridge Assisted Living, Traverse City, Michigan.

She was born July 30, 1928 in Arran, Saskatchewan, Canada. After high school, she graduated from Saint Boniface College with a degree in nursing.

Ann married Thomas A. Brown in Oak Park, Illinois.

She worked as a Registered Nurse at the Shriner’s Hospital for Crippled Children, Chicago, the Emory University Hospital, Atlanta, Georgia, and the VA Hospital, Marion.

Ann was a member of the First Presbyterian Church, Tri Kappa Sorority, VA Nurses Association and was a Paul Harris Fellow through Rotary International.

Surviving are: her husband, Thomas; a son, Thomas R. Brown (wife, Diane “Pepper” Bromelmeier), Central Lake, Michigan; 2 grandchildren, Dylan Bromelmeier and Megan Brown; and a brother-in-law, Rollin Brown, Hartford City.

She was preceded in death by a daughter, Megan Sue Orr.

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Wednesday, December 23 in Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., with Pastor David Smith officiating.

Friends may call after 10 a.m. Wednesday at the funeral home.

The family requests memorials to Rotary Coats for Kids or the First Presbyterian Church.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com.

Rita A. Yencer

2009-12-19T08:17:00.000-08:00

RITA A. YENCER

HARTFORD CITY, IN

Rita A. Yencer, 68, passed away Thursday, December 17, 2009, at her residence.

The daughter of Les and Edith (Ulrich) Brown, she was born January 31, 1941 in Poneto, Indiana. She graduated from Liberty Center High School in 1959. Rita then graduated from Marion Beauty College and worked as a beautician for 29 years. She had owned and operated the Beauty Barn in Hartford City.

She married James T. Yencer in Hartford City on September 29, 1972.

Survivors include: her husband, James; 3 daughters, Cheryl (Kerry) LaMotte, Hartford City, Chanda (Kent) Armstrong, Merrit Island, Florida, and Celina (Allen) Osborn, West Lafayette; 1 son, Jeff (Pam) Cook, Buchanan, Tennessee; 10 grandchildren; 8 great-grandchildren; a sister, Mary Lou Markley, Bluffton and a sister-in-law, Carol Suro, Muncie.

Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Monday, December 21 in the Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City. Burial will follow in the Hartford City Cemetery.

Friends may call from 1-4 p.m. Sunday, December 20 and after 9 a.m. Monday.

The family requests memorials be made to Clothe-a-Child (Pacesetter Bank, c/o Ted Leas, P.O. Box 659, Hartford City, IN 47348).

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com

M. Ruth Irelan

2009-12-11T08:53:00.000-08:00

M. RUTH IRELAN

HARTFORD CITY, IN

M. Ruth Irelan, 80, passed away Wednesday, December 9, 2009 in Lutheran Life Village, Kendallville.

The daughter of George A. and Hattie M. (Bell) Hornbaker, she was born April 22, 1929 in Hartford City and had resided most of her life here, graduating from Hartford City High School and Fort Wayne School of Cosmetology.

She married Mose Irelan in 1956 and his death occurred in 1970. After Mr. Irelan’s death, she moved to northern Indiana in 1971, residing at High Lake and Albion, prior to moving to Kendallville in 2002.

A homemaker, Mrs. Irelan was a former member of Women of the Moose, American Legion Auxiliary, Hartford City and the Eagles Lodge, Albion.

Surviving are: a daughter, Linda (Robert) McFeely, Jr., Upland; a son, John Henry (Teresa) Irelan, Kendallville; 5 grandchildren, Laura (Greg) Garringer, Aaron (Sandie) McFeely, Jon (Seana) McFeely, Alicia (Warren) Good, and Melinda Witt and 14 great-grandchildren.

In addition to her husband and parents, she was preceded in death by 3 brothers, William, Floyd, and Gail Hornbaker, and a sister, Margaret Moore.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, December 12 in Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City with Rev. Lloyd Hall officiating. Burial will follow in the Hartford City Cemetery.

Friends may call from 6-8 p.m. Friday, December 11 in Waters Funeral Home and after 9 a.m. hour prior to the service on Saturday.

Barbara J. (Ellis) Murrell

2009-12-07T05:43:00.000-08:00

HARTFORD CITY, IN

Barbara J. (Ellis) Murrell, 84, passed away Saturday, December 5, 2009 in Bridgewater Centre.

The daughter of Benjamin and Margaret (Reid) Pickard, she was born February 6, 1925 in Detroit, Michigan. She grew up in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.

A homemaker, she had worked as a nurse’s aide at Parkview Nursing Home, Muncie.

Barbara married Humboldt Murrell, Jr. on October 20, 1973 in Muncie.

Surviving are: her husband, Humboldt; 2 sons, David and Charles Ellis; 2 daughters, Margaret Ellis and Susan (Jeff) Fisker; step-children, Linda (Charles) Butcher, Frances (John) Hunt, David (Mandy) Murrell, Scott (Sheila) Murrell, Lester (companion, Edie) Murrell and Nikki (Dee) Murrell; 15 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, 3 brothers, Dudley, Donald, and Bertram Pickard, a sister, Virginia Fredrickson, and a great-granddaughter.

The funeral service will be at 10 a.m. Thursday, December 10 in Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City with Rev. David Murrell, her grandson, officiating. Burial will follow in Gardens of Memory, Muncie.

Friends may call from 5-8 p.m. Wednesday and after 9 a.m. Thursday at Waters Funeral Home.

The family requests memorials be sent to Family Hospice of Northeast Indiana, 265 W. Water St., Berne, IN 46711.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com.

Lela Minneman Alwes

2009-12-01T06:09:00.000-08:00

Lela Minneman Alwes, 96, passed away Saturday, November 28, 2009 in Indianapolis.

The daughter of John and Clemmie (Fulton) Brose, she was born August 10, 1913 in Hartford City and graduated from Hartford City High School in 1931. She married Ovid Minneman in 1937 and they lived in Hartford City until moving to Seymour, Indiana in 1952. Mr. Minneman’s death occurred in 1962. Lela then married Herman Alwes in 1966.

Lela was a member of the Immanuel Lutheran Church, Ladies Aid, Hospital Guild, and volunteered at Schneck Medical Center, all of Seymour. In addition to being a homemaker, she worked at the Seymour Tribune.

Surviving are: 2 sons, Leland Minneman, Indianapolis, Rex (Kim) Minneman, Cary, NC; 2 step-daughters, Emile Persinger and Carol Bell, both of Seymour; 5 grandchildren, Greg and Mark Minneman, Indianapolis, Eric Minneman, Cary, NC., Amy Eaton, Indianapolis and Gretchen Minneman, Cary, NC; 7 great-grandchildren; a brother, Richard Brose, FL. and a sister, Betty Mc Dermott, Muncie.

In addition to her parents, and both husbands, she was preceded in death by a brother, Glen Brose and two sisters, Martha Clamme, and Catherine Casterline.

Funeral services will be conducted at 10:30 a.m. Friday, December 4 at Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City with Pastor Mark Strietelmeier officiating. Burial will follow in Hartford City Cemetery.

Friends may call at the Waters Funeral Home from 6-8 p.m. Thursday, December 3 and after 9:30 a.m. Friday.

Memorials may be made to Immanuel Lutheran Church, 605 South Walnut Street, Seymour, IN 47274.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com.

Harold O. Sutton

2009-11-19T10:35:00.000-08:00

HAROLD O. SUTTON

HARTFORD CITY, IN

Harold O. Sutton, 90, passed away Thursday, November 12, 2009 at his residence.

He was born January 7, 1919 in Blackford County, the son of Arthur and Mary Ethel (Oren) Sutton. A life resident of Blackford County, he attended Hartford City Schools. Harold married Bertha Cale June 4, 1943 in Hartford City. Her death occurred on October 1, 1986.

He was an Army veteran of WW II serving in the African Theatre.

Harold worked at Warner Gear, Muncie, retiring after 26 years of employment.

He was a member of the Holy Family Catholic Church, Gas City, and a former member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, Hartford City. He was a member of VFW Post, Gas City, where he served as chaplain and was a life member of American Legion Post #159, Hartford City.

Surviving are: a son, Larry Sutton, Hartford City; a daughter, Patricia (Royce) Allison, Fairmount; 2 daughters-in-law, Sharon Sutton, Evansville and Mary Lou Sutton, Alton, IL; 9 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great-granddaughters.

He was preceded in death by his wife, parents, 2 sons, Harold L. and Thomas J. Sutton, a brother, Arthur Sutton, and a sister, Ruth Martin.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Monday, November 16 in St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church with Father Dave Newton officiating. Burial will follow in Gardens of Memory, Muncie, with military rites by Delaware County Veterans Organizations.

Friends may call at the Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City from 2-5 p.m. Sunday and from 9-9:30 a.m. Monday. A Christian Wake Service will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home.

Memorials may be sent to University Nursing Home, Upland, or masses to St John the Evangelist Church, or New Hope Hospice, 730 W. 35th St., Marion, IN 46953.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com

Mary Joanne O'Connell Dornberger

2009-11-19T10:34:00.000-08:00

MARY J. O’CONNELL DORNBERGER

HARTFORD CITY, IN

Mary Joanne O’Connell Dornberger, 83, passed away Monday, November 16, 2009 in Sarasota, Florida.

She was born August 17, 1926 in Hartford City, the daughter of Charles R. and Anna (Claytor) O’Connell and attended Hartford City schools.

A homemaker, she and her husband, Joseph, had resided in Virginia Beach, VA and moved to Florida in 1974.

She was a member of the Church of the Incarnation, Sarasota.

Surviving are: her husband, Joseph; a daughter, Roberta (husband, Gary) Wasmer, Newport New, VA; 2 sisters, Esther Thieme, New Haven, IN and Nedra Dustman, Fort Wayne; a granddaughter, Amanda Wasmer, Virginia Beach, Va.

Mrs. Dornberger was preceded in death by her parents and a sister, Barbara Ray.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Saturday, November 21 in St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, 209 S. Spring St., Hartford City, with Father Dave Newton as celebrant. Burial will follow in Hartford City Cemetery.

Friends may call at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church after 10 a.m. Saturday.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Waters Funeral Home.

Memorials may be made in the form of masses to the church.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com.

GEORGE W. ADKINS, SR.

2009-11-12T09:20:00.000-08:00

GEORGE W. ADKINS, SR.

HARTFORD CITY, IN

George W. Adkins, Sr., 76, passed away November 11, 2009 at his residence.

The son of John and Mary (Coons) Adkins, he was born November 5, 1933 in Hartford City. He married Maxine Hall in Carter County, Kentucky on May 16, 1950.

George worked at Sinclair Glass retiring in 1995. He was a member of the Sunday Fellowship.

George enjoyed working with horses and was manager of the Rocking Horse Stables.

Survivors include: his wife, Maxine; 3 daughters, Kathie Coulter, Montpelier, Geral (Larry) Berry and Janet (Jim) Lytle, both of Hartford City; 2 sons, George W. (Julie) Adkins, Jr., Dunkirk and John E. (Michelle) Adkins, Middletown, FL; a sister, Thelma Harter, Hartford City; 18 grandchildren, 36 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, 3 brothers, Ed, Billy and Marvin Adkins, 6 sisters, Dorothy Studebaker, Lois Whitehurst, Irene Moorman, Alpha Hunt, Ethel Mae Slentz and Elizabeth Norton.

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, November 14 in the Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City with Pastors Larry Berry and Joe Thornburgh, grandsons of Mr. Adkins, officiating. Burial will follow in Hartford City Cemetery.

Friends may call at the funeral home from4-8 p.m. Friday, November 13 and after 1 p.m. Saturday.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com.

Raymond L. Wine, Jr.

2009-11-11T11:55:00.000-08:00

RAYMOND L. WINE, JR.

HARTFORD CITY, IN

Raymond L. Wine, Jr., 53, passed away Tuesday, November 10, 2009 at his son’s home in Marion, after an extended illness.

A native of Hartford City, he was born December 14, 1955, the son of Raymond L. Wine, Sr. and Gladys (Regan) Wine. He attended Blackford High School and had worked as an auto body repairman.

His family includes his children: Michael Wine (Tracey), Bo Wine (Heather), Nicole Wine and Robbie Wine; his father, Raymond L. Wine, Sr.; four sisters, Anna Miller, Patty Strait, Debra Fogle (Charles “Pete”) and Betty Stoppenhagen; three brothers, Paul Walker (Kim), Randy Wine and Ron Wine; five grandchildren, Braxton Wine, Branson Wine, Rylan Wine, Trinity Wine and Samarah Batten.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Gladys Walker Wine; a brother, Herman Walker, a sister, Glenda West and a grandson, Boston Wine.

Funeral services will be at 12 noon Friday, November 13 at Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City, with Pastor Troy Kaufman presiding. Burial will follow in Hartford City Cemetery.

Visitation will be Friday from 10 a.m. until the time of service.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com.

Wilburta L. Smith

2009-11-06T08:44:00.000-08:00

WILBURTA L. SMITH

HARTFORD CITY, IN

Wilburta L. Smith, 88, passed away Wednesday, November 4, 2009 at Miller’s Merry Manor.

The daughter of Martin and Daisy (Lechien) Knecht, she was born February 18, 1921 in Hartford City. She graduated from Hartford City High School and married Van L. Smith on February 27, 1943. His death occurred on July 4, 2003.

A homemaker, she was a member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, Altar-Rosary Society and had volunteered at the New to You Shop.

Surviving are: her children, Jerry (Jane) Smith, Mary (Bill) Morris, Martha Stauffer, Dennis (Pam) Smith, Patricia (Jerry) Richards-Niekamp, Van Smith, Monica (Dave) Booker, Martin Smith and Rita (Paul) Anderson; 15 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, a son, Thomas, a brother, Matthew Knecht, 4 sisters, Rose Ranstead, Margaret Viteteau, Emma Seimet and Norma Snyder, and 2 sons-in-law, Charles Stauffer and Mitch Richards.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Monday, November 9 at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, 209 S. Spring St., Hartford City with Father Dave Newton officiating. Burial will follow in the Hartford City Cemetery.

Friends may call at the Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City, from 2-5 p.m. Sunday, November 8 and on Monday from 9-9:45 a.m.

A Christian Wake Service will be held at the funeral home at 2 p.m. Sunday.

Memorials may be made to St. John the Evangelist Church.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com.

L. Kathleen Ross

2009-11-06T07:09:00.000-08:00

L. KATHLEEN ROSS

HARTFORD CITY, IN

L. Kathleen Ross, 83, passed away Tuesday, November 3, 2009, in Blackford Community Hospital.

The daughter of Paul and Thelma (Tatman) Jones, she was born March 26, 1926 in Blackford County and was a 1944 graduate of Roll High School. On February 22, 1947, she married Kenneth E. Ross in Hartford City. His death occurred on August 17, 2007.

A homemaker, she was a member of the Roll United Methodist Church, Progressive Homemakers Extension Club, United Methodist Women and during World War II, she helped with the war effort by packing machine guns in Anderson. She also had been a cafeteria lady at the Washington Township School.

Surviving are: one son, Brian (Mary) Ross, Hartford City; one sister, Clarice Ann Pierce, Hartford City; one brother, David (Sarah Lou) Jones, Hartford City; one granddaughter, Jessica Ross.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband and a son, Gary Paul Ross.

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, November 6 in Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City with Pastor Steve Landis officiating. Burial will follow in Hartford City Cemetery.

Friends may call at Waters Funeral Home from 4-8 p.m. Thursday, November 5 and after 1 p.m. Friday.

Memorials may be made to the donor’s favorite charity.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com

Trudy A. Cooper

2009-10-12T08:35:00.000-07:00

HARTFORD CITY, IN

Trudy A. Cooper, 61, passed away, Saturday evening, October 10, 2009 in the Blackford Community Hospital.

The daughter of Frank Jr. and Twinkle (Weseli) Everhart, she was born October 13, 1947 in Hartford City. A 1965 graduate of Hartford City High School, she married Mark Cooper on August 21, 1976. Trudy attended Grace United Methodist Church and retired from the U.S. Postal Service in 1990.

Surviving are her husband, Mark Cooper, Hartford City, a sister, Marti McKeighen of Muncie, two brothers; Dean Everhart (wife, Judy), of Hartford City, and Wally Everhart of Muncie, three aunts; Virginia Ridgeway, Zelma Everhart, and Esther Weseli, father and mother-in-law; Bill and Sue Cooper of Hartford City, brother-in-law, Chris Cooper of Polar Springs, FL, as well as several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded by her parents Frank Everhart Jr., on October 29, 2003 and Twinkle Everhart on September 26, 2005.

Funeral Services will be conducted at 1:00 p.m., Thursday, October 15, 2009 in the Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City, with Rev. Lloyd Hall presiding. Burial will follow in Gardens of Memory.

Friends may call at the funeral home from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Wednesday and one hour prior to services Thursday.

Memorials may be made to the Angels of Mercy, c/o Blackford Community Foundation, P.O. Box 327, Hartford City, IN 47348.

Online condolences may be made at www.watersfuneralhomes.com.

Gregory Kent Kiser

2009-10-10T12:45:00.001-07:00

HARTFORD CITY, IN

GREGORY KENT KISER, 36, passed away unexpectedly Thursday evening, October 8, 2009, at the Blackford Community Hospital.

A native of Waverly, Missouri, he was born May 26, 1973. He married Lori Wilder on October 13, 1990 in Missouri. He had resided in Hartford City for the past fourteen years, and had been employed as an industrial electrician.

He leaves behind his wife Lori, a daughter, Haley Kiser, a son, Lance Kiser, mother, Martha J. Kiser, all of Hartford City, two brothers; Chris Kiser of Marysville, MO and Giles Kiser (wife, Debbie) of Maltabend, MO, one sister, Lisa Thomas (companion, Tony Quillen) also of Hartford City, as well as several nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Everett and Inez Bigler and a brother Danny who died in 1993.

Graveside services and burial will be held at 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, October 14, 2009 in the Hartford City Cemetery with Rev. Bobby Thomas presiding.

Visitation will be from 11:45 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. Wednesday, at Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City.

Online condolences may be made at www.watersfuneralhomes.com.

F. B. "Don" Morris, Jr.

2009-10-01T20:18:00.000-07:00

F. B. “DON” MORRIS, JR.

HARTFORD CITY, IN

F. B. "Don" Morris, Jr., 78, died unexpectedly Wednesday morning in his home.

He was born November 27, 1930 in Montpelier, Indiana, the son of Franklin B. and Edna (McDonald)
Morris, Sr. A graduate of Hartford City High School in 1949, he had participated in all sports.

Don had worked for Indiana Bell and AT & T from 1949 to his retirement in 1990. He was a Sergeant in
the U.S. Marine Corp. during the Korean War, stationed at Camp Lejeune, NC and aboard ship in the
Mediterranean from February 1, 1951 to February 20, 1954.

He was a member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, a member and past Commander of
American Legion Post #159, Elks Lodge #625 for over 50 years, Telephone Pioneers, and the Blackford
County Historical Society. Don loved to garden and loved his dogs Heidi and Dozer.

Surviving are: his wife, Leta Alice (Willmann) Morris; three daughters, Linette (Chris) Schaden, Los Angeles, Ca.,
Laurie (Tom) Long, Rochester, IN, and Lisa (Steve) Rogers, Muncie; one son, Lane (Angeline) Morris,
Indianapolis; two sisters, Hope (Lawrence) Fleming, Hartford City and Jane Ann Murrell, South Bend;
eight grandchildren, Stephanie (John) Collins, Katey and Maggie Schaden, Nathaniel and Jordan Long, Meredith
and Adrienne Rogers, Courtney (Kyle) Mealy and one great-grandchild, Grayson Mealy.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a son, Lindsey, two sisters, Elaine Lannoy and Phyllis Williams
and a brother, James Morris.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by Father Dave Newton at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, October 6
In St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, 209 S. Spring St., Hartford City. Burial will be made in the Hartford
City Cemetery, with military rites.

Friends may call at Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Monday and from
9-10:30 a.m. Tuesday.

A Christian Wake Service will be held at 4 p.m. Monday.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Blackford High School Athletic Department, Blackford
County Cancer Support Group, c/o Blackford Community Foundation, P.O. Box 327, Hartford City, IN 47348, St.
John’s Building Fund or masses.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com.

Dana O. Vance

2009-09-30T09:28:00.000-07:00

DANA O. VANCE

HARTFORD CITY, IN

Dana O. Vance, 55, passed away Tuesday, September 29, 2009 at Renaissance Rehabilitation, Muncie.

The son of John Clay and Sarah Frances (Humphrey) Vance, he was born October 13, 1953 in Paris, Kentucky. Dana was raised in Kentucky and had lived in Hartford City the past 26 years. He married Arlene Taylor on June 20, 1992 in Hartford City.

Dana worked as a mechanic at Sam Pierce Chevrolet, Muncie, retiring because of ill health. He enjoyed working on cars both at work and at home.

Surviving are: his wife, Arlene; a son, Jason (Cynthia) Taylor, Smithville, TN; a brother, Rickey Carson, KY; a sister, Christina (Darrin) Stevens, Paris, KY; and a half-sister, Judy McFarland, KY.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, October 3 at Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City. Cremation will follow the service.

Friends may call at Waters Funeral Home from 12-2 p.m. Saturday, October 3.

Memorials may be made to the family to help with funeral expenses.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com.

Inez W. Smith

2009-09-29T11:01:00.001-07:00

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INEZ W. SMITH

UPLAND, INDIANA

Inez W. Smith, 94, went to be with her Lord and Savior on Monday, September 28, 2009 at the home of her daughter in Upland.

Inez was born September 19, 1915 in Tipton County, the daughter of Ronald and Daisy (McMurray) Wiley. She married Leon W. Smith on February 19, 1935 in Elwood, Indiana. His death occurred June 25, 1978.

A homemaker, she had worked on the farm most of her younger years. She moved to Blackford County in 1954 and had resided in Upland the past 20 years.

She attended the First Church of God, Eaton.

Surviving are: 5 sons; Allen (Joan) Smith, Winter Haven, FL, Daniel (Dana) Smith and Gary (Amy) Smith, both of Hartford City, Jack (Caroline) Smith, Naples, FL., and Robert Smith, Upland; 3 daughters, Janet Leffingwell, Upland, Ruby (David) Schultz, Kendallville, and Mary (John) Atkinson, Nappanee; 23 grandchildren, 40 great-grandchildren and 4 great-great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, son, Ronald L. Smith and 2 brothers, Noel Wiley and Kenneth Edward Hill.

Inez always put others first - whether it be in service to them or to her family. Her love for others was evident in everything she did and said. She gained wisdom through her study of God’s word. This wisdom helped her walk closely with God throughout her life on earth. Now she is with her Lord, King Jesus, in her heavenly home and awaits there for the rest of her loved ones, family & friends to join her. She was known for living a prudent life – doing what was right, just and fair. She understood that “the fear of the Lord” was the beginning of knowledge - Proverbs 7. Now she will be missed so much here on earth, but one thing we who loved her know is that, there is rejoicing in heaven on that day. She is being reunited with her Lord and loved ones in heaven.

Funeral services will be conducted at 1:00 p.m. Friday, October 2 in the Wesleyan Church, 221 N. Cherry St., Hartford City with Pastor Tom Parsons officiating. Burial will follow in Gardens of Memory, Muncie.

Friends may call at Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City from 4-7 p.m. Thursday, October 1 and from 12-1 p.m. Friday at the church.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com.

Marcella F. Daisley

2009-09-29T11:00:00.000-07:00

MARCELLA F. DAISLEY

HARTFORD CITY, IN

Marcella F. Daisley, 94, passed away Saturday, September 26, 2009 at Miller’s Merry Manor. She was the widow of Henry (Hank) Daisley, who died February 14, 1987.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by Father Dave Newton at 10:00 a.m. Monday, October 5, 2009 in St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, 209 S. Spring St., Hartford City. Burial will follow in Hartford City Cemetery.

Friends may call at Waters Funeral Home from 2-4 p.m. Sunday, October 4 and from 9-9:30 a.m. Monday.

Memorials may be made to St. John’s Building Fund.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com.

Mary B. Crostic

2009-09-23T15:14:00.000-07:00

MARY B. CROSTIC

HARTFORD CITY, IN

Mary B. Crostic, 88, passed away Tuesday morning, September 22, at her residence.

The daughter of J.C. and Rosa (Grubb) Jones, she was born August 24, 1921 in Tazewell, Virginia. She graduated from Tazewell High School and attended Business College in Blue Field, Virginia. Mary had resided in Hartford City for the past 20 years, moving here from Warrenton, North Carolina.

She was a member of the Grace United Methodist Church and a former member of Blackford County Hospital Auxiliary.

Survivors include: a son, Gene (Sheila) Meadows, Hartford City; a brother, J. C. Jones, Jr., Tazewell, VA; 2 grandchildren, Brad Thurston, Nashville, TN and Heather (David) Melton, Eaton; 3 great-grandchildren, Zachary, Logan and Charlie Melton.

She was preceded in death by her parents and a sister, Helen Harmon.

Graveside services will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, September 24, 2009 in the Hartford City Cemetery, State Road 26 East, with Rev. Lloyd Hall officiating.

There will be no calling hours.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Grace United Methodist Church.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Waters Funeral Home, Hartford City.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com.

Anna P. Peer

2009-09-17T08:01:00.000-07:00

ANNA P. PEER

HARTFORD CITY, IN

Anna P. Peer, 86, passed away Monday, September 14, 2009 in Bridgewater Centre, Hartford City.

The daughter of Walter L. and Dove (Mansell) Pace, she was born July 1, 1923 in Russellville, Alabama and moved to Marion in 1950. She had resided in Hartford City for the past 8 years. Mrs. Peer was a homemaker.

Survivors include: a son, C. (Ted) Ward, Hartford City; a brother, Vernon Pace, Alabama; 4 grandchildren, Charles (Ted) Ward II, Muncie, Rita Ann (Bill) Blevins, Florida, Robert Dennison, Florida, and Paul Dennison Jr., Miami County; 2 great-grandchildren, Olive Rose Ward and Megan Dennison.

She was preceded in death by a daughter, Patricia Ann Dennison, 2 brothers, Carlton and Bill Pace and 2 sisters, Geraldine Heason and Glynnis Hogan.

Waters Funeral Home, Hartford City is handling cremation arrangements. Graveside services will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, September 19, 2009 in Mississinewa Cemetery, Somerset, Indiana with Rev. Craig Davis officiating.

Memorials may be sent to the American Cancer Society, 2723 South Albright Road, Kokomo, IN 46902.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com.

George A. Whitesell

2009-09-05T09:36:00.000-07:00

GEORGE A. WHITESELL

HARTFORD CITY, IN

George A. Whitesell, 77, died Friday, September 4, 2009 in his home.
The son of George W. and Marie (Flatter) Whitesell, he was born in Dunkirk on September 27, 1931 and lived most of his life in Hartford City. He married Wilma Jean Evans on June 28, 1952 in Hartford City. Her death occurred on August 17, 2004.

George worked as a supervisor at Overhead Door for 45 years. He enjoyed fishing, hunting and all sports, especially the Atlanta Braves.

Survivors include: one son, George E. (Deberah) Whitesell, Hartford City; one daughter, Teresa (Charles) Teer, Hartford City; three brothers, Jack Whitesell, Roll, Don (Martha) Whitesell, and James (Rose) Whitesell, both of Hartford City; two sisters, Mary (Ron) Warner and Jane Maddox, both of Hartford City; five grandchildren, Charley (Leah) Teer, James Teer (companion, Tonya) , Misty Teer (companion, Fred) , Jennifer Whitesell (companion, George) and Charity (Chris) Irwin; five great-grandchildren, Dalton, Hailey, Tabitha, Quentin, and George.

Besides his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by seven brothers, Thomas, Eldon, Darrell, Jerry, Larry, Harry and Charles and two sisters, Letha Hammond and Wanda Whitesell.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, September 8 in Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St. Hartford City with Pastor Tom Parsons officiating. Burial will follow in Gardens of Memory, Muncie.

Friends may call at Waters Funeral Home from 2-5 p.m. Monday, September 7 and after 9 a.m. Tuesday.

Memorials may be sent to the donor’s favorite charity.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com.

Donald L. Sumwalt

2009-08-28T07:16:00.000-07:00

DONALD L. SUMWALT

HARTFORD CITY, IN

Donald L. Sumwalt, 84, died Thursday, August 27, 2009 in Ball Memorial Hospital.

The son of Harry and Mable (McWilliams) Sumwalt, he was born February 7, 1925 in Randolph County. He was a 1943 graduate of Green Township High School in Randolph County.

He served in the US Navy, aboard the aircraft carrier USS Boxer, in the South Pacific during WWII from June 8, 1944 to June 21, 1946. He married Rosalie Murray on April 8, 1951 in Hartford City.

Mr. Sumwalt had been a petroleum distributor for National Oil & Gas-Phillips 66 Co. in the Hartford City area for 43 years, retiring July 1, 1994.

Don was a member of American Legion Post #159, Hartford City. He was a former baseball player for the Hartford City Merchants, Redkey Merchants, Albany Doodle Sockers, and the Parker Boosters. Don was also an avid fisherman.

Surviving are: his wife, Rosalie; 1 son Christopher Sumwalt, Hartford City; 2 daughters, Deborah Delporte, Hartford City and Nancy (Tim) Roth, Fairmount; 3 brothers, Tom (Helen) Sumwalt, CA, Joe (Virginia) Sumwalt, Warren and Max (Betty) Sumwalt, Muncie; 2 sisters, Mildred Coppack, Chicago and Harriett (Harry) Andersen, AZ; 5 grandchildren, Derek and Dustin Delporte, Audrey and Jarred Sumwalt and Taylor Roth; 2 step-grandchildren, Josh and Cassie Roth and 3 step-great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, 3 brothers, Edward, Fred and James Sumwalt and a sister, Barbara Sumwalt.

Family and friends are invited to a celebration of Don’s life from 2-5 p.m. Saturday, August 29 at the Sumwalt residence, 204 S. West St., Hartford City.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com.

John H. Coulter II

2009-08-26T07:37:00.001-07:00

JOHN H. COULTER II

MONTPELIER, IN

John H. Coulter II, 61, died Monday, August 24, 2009 in Ball Memorial Hospital, Muncie.

The son of John H. and Peggy Ann (Petty) Coulter I, he was born on September 6, 1947 in Muncie. He attended Cowan Schools and graduated from Kemper Military School, Boonville, MO in 1965. He was an Air Force veteran of the Vietnam War, having been stationed in Vietnam and Okinawa.

On May 5, 1987, he married Kathie Adkins in Hartford City. He had resided in Cowan, Hartford City and Mattawan, Michigan, moving to Montpelier three years ago.

John had worked for Pfizer Pharmaceutical Company, Portage, Michigan, retiring in 2000.

He was a member of Mattawan Congregational Church and a member and Past Master of the Wilbur A. Full Lodge #744 F & AM, Muncie.

Survivors include: his wife, Kathie; a son, John H. Coulter III (wife, Dana), Fort Jackson, SC; 3 step-sons, Larry J. Thornburgh Jr. (wife, Tracey), Montpelier, Nathan Thornburgh (wife, Bobbie), Dunkirk, and Ronald Thornburgh, Montpelier; a sister, Nancy Ruster (husband, Steve), Cowan; 2 nieces, Susan Kelley (husband, Jim), Ashland, OH and Peggy Jo Lawrence, Cowan; 11 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. Saturday, August 29 in Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City with Pastors Michael Perdue, Larry J. Thornburgh Jr. and Larry Berry officiating. Burial will follow in Elm Ridge Cemetery, Muncie.

Friends may call at Waters Funeral Home from 3-7 p.m. Friday and one hour before services on Saturday.

Masonic services will be held at 7 p.m. Friday at the funeral home.

Memorials may be made to American Kidney Foundation.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com.

Herbert Vaughn Ridgeway

2009-08-26T07:35:00.000-07:00

HERBERT VAUGHN RIDGEWAY

HARTFORD CITY, IN

Herbert Vaughn Ridgeway, 85, died Saturday, August 22, 2009 at Muncie Health Care & Rehabilitation Center.

The son of Robert Earl and Joanna A. (Hummer) Ridgeway, he was born June 28, 1924 in Dunkirk. Herb graduated from Hartford City High School in 1942 and served in the Army Air Force in the European Theatre from 1943-1945. He received several ribbons with 6 clusters.

On August 4, 1946, he married Virginia A. Everhart at the United Brethren Church, Hartford City.

Mr. Ridgeway had worked at Marhoefer Packing Co., the Gulf Service Station, Hartford City, Moore Company, Muncie, Hartford Tool & Die Co. and retired after 34 years at Borg Warner Automotive, Muncie.

Herb was a member of Grace United Methodist Church, Blackford Lodge #106 F & AM, Scottish Rite and Mizpah Shrine, both of Fort Wayne, Blackford Shrine Club, U.A.W. Local 287 and was a life member of American Legion Post 159 and Hartford City Elks 625.

He fought in the Golden Gloves, Muncie in 1941-43, 1946 and 1949 and was flyweight champion for 4 years and runner-up the 5th year. He was quarter finalist in the Chicago Golden Gloves in 1942, 1943 & 1949. Herb also enjoyed golfing and fishing.

Survivors include: his wife, Virginia; nieces and nephews, Trudy (Mark) Cooper, Dean (Judy) Everhart, Wally Everhart, Joanna (John) Oxley, Carolyn Pollard, Marti McKeighen, Don (Ava) Everhart, Paul Everhart, Sue (Perry) Prewitt, and Bill (Sharon) Meacham; one godchild, Todd (Bashka) Everhart; cousins, Michael (Cindy) Howard, Martha (Rex) Wall, Sara Wamser, Delite Townsend, Dorothy Ann Gull, Maxine McIlwain, Yetieve Williams, Betty Poorman and Tom (Donna)Howard; 2 sister-in-laws, Zelma Everhart and Josephine Ridgeway.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Charles D. Ridgeway, brother-in-laws, Robert Everhart and Frank Everhart, Jr., a sister-in-law, Twinkle Everhart and a special cousin, Marjorie Howard.

Funeral services will be conducted at 1 p.m. Thursday, August 27 in Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City with Rev. Lloyd Hall officiating. Burial will follow in Gardens of Memory, Muncie, with military graveside rites.

Friends may call at Waters Funeral Home from 5-8 p.m. Wednesday, August 26 and after noon on Thursday. Masonic Services will be held at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home.

Memorials may be sent to Masonic Lodge #106 or Grace United Methodist Church.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com.

Margaret A. Vargo

2009-08-19T12:57:00.000-07:00

MARGARET VARGO

HARTFORD CITY, IN

Margaret A. Vargo, 73, former Hartford City resident, passed away Friday evening in Indianapolis.

The daughter of Tilden and Sarah (Chapman) Goff, she was born March 3, 1936 in Stone, Kentucky. She graduated from Belfry High School, Belfry, Kentucky. On September 4, 1954, Margaret married Carl Vargo in Stone, Kentucky. His death occurred on January 26, 1997.

Carl and Margaret moved to Hartford City in 1964. They owned and operated Vargo’s Bakery until they retired in 1996. In 1998 Margaret moved to Indianapolis.

Margaret was a former member of the Blackford Baptist Temple. .

Survivors include: 2 daughters, Carla (Brad) Mann, Arcadia and Lisa (Dan) Cutshaw, Indianapolis; 7 grandchildren, Zachary, Jeremy, Hannah, Noah, Gillian and Ethan Cutshaw and Michelle Bauer; 2 brothers, Kenneth (Barbara) Goff, TX and Burl (Carol) Goff, Jeffersonville, IN; 3 sisters, Yvonne (Troy) Bowling and Louise (Bobby) Glover, both of Charlestown, IN and Pat Williams, NC.

Besides her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by 2 brothers, Edward Goff and Billy Goff, 2 sisters, Irene Askew, Edith Maynard, a half-sister, Grace Stanley, and a half-brother, Anthony Charles.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. August 19, 2009 in Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City with Rev. Bill Cutshaw officiating. Burial will follow in the Hartford City Cemetery.

Friends may call at the funeral home from 4-8 p.m. Tuesday, August 18 and one hour prior to services on Wednesday.

Memorials may be made to the donor’s favorite charity.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com.

Adrian D. Ramey

2009-08-13T11:22:00.000-07:00

ADRIAN D. RAMEY

HARTFORD CITY, IN

Adrian D. Ramey, 86, passed away Wednesday, August 12, 2009 in Heritage Pointe, Warren.

He was born September 1, 1922 in Mitchell, Indiana, the son of Lewis and Merline (Williams) Ramey and was a 1940 graduate of Fort Wayne Southside High School. He married Lucille Gelhaus in Fort Wayne on August 24, 1946. He had been a tank truck driver for Shell Oil Company, Muncie for 35 years, retiring July 26, 1984.

Adrian was an Army veteran of WWII serving in the Signal Corps.

He was a member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church and a former member of American Legion Post #159.

Surviving are: his wife, Lucille; 4 sons, Dennis (Vicki) Ramey, Ossian, Michael (Janis) Ramey, Hartford City, Timothy (Marianne) Ramey, Fairfax Station, Virginia, and Gregory Ramey, Hartford City; a daughter, Beth (Jack) Norton, Hartford City; 10 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a son, David, a brother, Wayne, and a grandson, Bryan Ramey.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by Father Dave Newton at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, August 15, 2009 in St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, 209 S. Spring St., Hartford City, Indiana. Burial will follow in Union Cemetery, Eaton with military graveside rites.

Friends may call from 9-11 a.m. Saturday at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church.

Memorials may be made to St. John’s Building Fund or in the form of masses.

Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., has been entrusted with funeral arrangements.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com.

Barbara G. Lewis

2009-08-13T05:56:00.002-07:00

BARBARA G. LEWIS

HARTFORD CITY, IN

Barbara G. Lewis, 73, passed away Monday, August 10, 2009 at Bridgewater Centre, Hartford City.

She was born February 17, 1936 in Blackford County, the daughter of Ralph and Hazel (Melick) Townsend. She graduated from Roll High School in 1953 and was valedictorian of her class. She married Charles Lewis July 19, 1955 in Albany, Indiana. His death occurred November 17, 2003.

Barbara had resided in Madison, Indiana for several years prior to moving to Muncie, then Hartford City. A homemaker, Barbara had worked for Central Indiana Gas Company in Marion and Muncie from 1955-1959. She then worked for Indiana & Kentucky Electric Storage and Chemical Departments from 1959-1971. She then gave quilting lessons at Marge’s Country Store and Piano, Madison.

She was a member of Christ Episcopal Church and Tri Kappa Sorority, Madison, and had been a winner of the Blackford County Daughters of American Revolution Award.

Survivors include two aunts, Ethel Smelser, Royerton and Norma Jean Melick, Hartford City, and cousins, Judith (Neil) Sodders, Hartford City, Phyllis Ann Melick, Millgrove, Pat (Larry) Randle, Muncie, Ron (Penny) Smelser, Shelbyville, Dollie Willman, Fort Wayne, and Rev. Donald (Shirley) Willman.

A memorial visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Saturday, August 15 at Waters Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington St., Hartford City. Cremation will take place with private interment in Jefferson Cemetery, Upland.
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Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.watersfuneralhomes.com.