Paul M. Sheets
July 15, 1913 - July 29, 2001
Paul M. Sheets, 88, of New Road, Mishawaka, Ind., passed away on Sunday, July 29. Paul was born July 15, 1913, to the union of the late Lem and Mary (Monhaut) Sheets in Mishawaka. He was also preceded in death by three sisters, Hazel Ritter, Mabel Lehman and Bertha Martin; and by six brothers, Frank, Lester, Tom, John, Joseph and Charles Sheets. Paul spent his life farming in Penn and Madison Townships. As a teen-ager he worked as a hired man for his uncle, August Monhaut. In 1934 he and his brother John started Sheets Brothers Farm. Paul was fond of Belgian horses, selling his last horse "Rose" in 2000. He enjoyed coon hunting, and lunch with friends and neighbors at the Woodland Inn or Hilltop in Lakeville, Ind. Paul was a charter member of New Tamarach Grange #2358, Ancient Order of Gleaners and the St. Joseph County Farm Bureau, Inc. Paul was a lifetime member of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Mishawaka. Visitation will be from 4 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 2, in the Thallemer-Goethals Funeral Home, Mishawaka, where a Rosary will be recited at 4:30 p.m. A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10 a.m. on Friday, Aug. 3, in St. Joseph Catholic Church, with Fr. Robert A. Yast officiating. Interment will follow at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery, Mishawaka. Memorial contributions may be made to the church or to the donor's choice of charity. Paul is survived by many, many nieces and nephews. We will miss your subtle humor and stories of the good old days.

Otto L. Truex
Nov. 19, 1917 - July 31, 2001
Otto L. Truex, age 83, of 66614 CR 3, Wakarusa, IN, died at 3:00 a.m. Tuesday, July 31, 2001, at Elkhart Gen-eral Hospital, Elkhart. He had been a patient there since July 25 after suffering a severe stroke. Mr. Truex was born Novem-ber 19, 1917, in Wakarusa, to Loren and Maud Leatherman Truex. He was a lifetime resident. On November 27, 1949, he married Phyllis J. Davidhizer in Wakarusa. She survives along with 1 son, Scott I. (Teresa) Truex of Reston, VA, and 2 granddaughters, Carla and Paul Truex. He was preceded in death by 2 brothers, Dale "Twink" and Newell Truex, and a sister, Erma Conrad. Otto worked at NIBCO for many years and Martin Hardware in Nappanee. He then began "Ott's Shoe Repair" and worked as a supplier for J&N Stone in Wakarusa. He attended the Nappanee Missionary Church and was active in the Elkhart County Habitat for Humanity affiliate for a number of years. Otto was also a member of the Wakarusa American Legion and was active in a number of Wakarusa community organizations and events throughout his life. Friends may call at Thompson-Lengacher & Yoder Funeral Home in Wakarusa Thursday 2 to 4 and 6 to 9 p.m. and one hour prior to the funeral services which will be Friday August 3, 2001, at 10:00 a.m. at the Nappanee Missionary Church. Officiating will be Rev. Norm Reimer and Rev. Marvin Engbrecht, both of the Nappanee Missionary Church. Burial will follow at Olive Cemetery in Wakarusa, with a military graveside service by the Wakarusa American Legion. Memorial contributions may be made to "Project Roundhouse," an international faith-based housing and community development project currently working in El Salvador and Guatemala. Otto's son Scott is the vice president of Boltcutters Ministries Internation-al, the project coordinator, located at 8404 Early Bud Way, Laurel, MD 20723. (On the Web at http://web.archive.org/web/20010801164846/http://www.projectroundhouse.org/).

George M. Tschida
May 18, 1910 - July 30, 2001
George M. Tschida, 91, formerly of Kendall Street, passed away at 4:30 a.m. Mon-day, July 30th. Mr. Tschida was the owner of the former Tschida Insurance Agency. Prior to his agency George served as a sheriff's deputy for St. Joseph County. He was also a former member of the D.F.V. German Club, St. Anthony Society, Calvert Rod & Gun Club, Rum Village Businessman's Association, Elk's Club, P.N.A. #38, William Penn Association, and the American Bowling Congress. George's loves were his family, bowling and his lake cottage, Camp Tschida, which he turned into his home-away-from-home for his children and grandchildren. He was born on May 18, 1910, in South Bend, Ind., to Anthony and Mary Tschida. He was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters, Barbara Hickey and Anna Marie Seese; and by a brother, George Leo Tschida. On July 17, 1935, in South Bend, he married Helen K. Domnanovich, who survives. He is also survived by two daughters, Diane (Frank) James of South Bend and Judy (Tom) Burmeister of Mishawaka, Ind.; seven grandchildren, Mark (Lisa) James, Robert (Jodi) James, Sue James, Christine James, Michael (Cathy) Burmeister, Beth (David) Whitfield and Jennifer (John) Rittenhouse; and by 13 great-grandchildren. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 2, in Our Lady of Hungary Catholic Church. Burial will follow at Highland Cemetery. Family and friends may call from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. today in the Zahoran Funeral Home, 1826 S. Kemble Avenue, where a Rosary will be recited at 3 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to Our Lady of Hungary Church or to the charity of choice.

Leo L. Webber Jr.
Oct. 26, 1943 - July 25, 2001
Leo L. Webber Jr., 57, of 82 Clinton Street, South Haven, Mich., formerly of Buchanan, Mich., died of natural causes on Wednesday, July 25, in Bronson Methodist Hospital, Kalamazoo, Mich. He was born Oct. 26, 1943, in Washington, Ind., to the late Leo L. Webber Sr. and Maxine L. (Allen) Webber. He was also preceded in death by his stepfather, Owen Wright. On Feb. 14, 1965, in Dowagiac, Mich., he married Joan L. Kauffman, who survives. He is also survived by a daughter, Karyn M. Webber-Deines of Paw Paw, Mich.; two sons, Gregory A. Webber of Knoxville, Tenn., and Douglas O. Webber of Ann Arbor, Mich.; two sisters, Delores Rosenthal of South Bend, Ind., and Pamela Dewey of Allegan, Mich.; and by a grandson, Ian F. Webber-Davis of Paw Paw. He worked as a paralegal for the Legal Aid Bureau of Kalamazoo. He was in the U.S. Air Force and belonged to the American Legion Post of South Haven. Leo enjoyed poker and cards, and was a Chicago Cubs and a Notre Dame fan. Services will be at 2 p.m. Friday Aug. 3, in the Swem Funeral Home, 301 W. Front Street, Buchanan, with Pastor Stanley Hullah officiating. Friends may call one hour before services in the funeral home. Cremation to follow services. Memorial contributions may be made to the Transplantation Society of Michigan, 2203 Platt Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48104- 9836.

Terri Buzalski-Jones
July 25, 1953 - June 13, 2001
Mrs. Terri Buzalski-Jones, 47, dear wife, daughter and sister, who resided on E. McKinley Avenue, Mish-awaka, Ind., passed away peacefully in her sleep on Wednesday, June 13, of natural causes. Terri was born July 25, 1953, in South Bend, Ind., to Joseph A. Buzalski and the late Rosemary (Lee) Buzalski. She was preceded in death by her mother, Rosemary Lee Buzalski in 1979. She married James Jones on May 20, 1988, Terri attended John Adams High School. Mrs. Jones had a love for the outdoors where she enjoyed planting flowers and working in the garden. She had a very special love in her heart for animals. Terri will be missed for her sense of humor with jokes and her pretty smile. She leaves to cherish her memory her husband, James Jones of South Bend; her father, Joseph A. Buzalski of Mishawaka; one sister, Pam Dembinski, and one brother, Joseph A. Buzalski, both of South Bend; along with her grandmother, aunts, uncles, cousins, other relatives and friends whom she dearly loved. There will be no visitation. Alford's Mortuary has been entrusted with arrangements.

Richard C. Holcomb
March 21, 1926 - June 16, 2001
Mishawaka, IN — Richard "Dick" C. Holcomb, 75 years old, residing on Russell Avenue in Mishawaka, passed away at 1:16 a.m. on Saturday, June 16, 2001, at the St. Joseph Community Hospital, Mishawaka, from natural causes. Dick was born on March 21, 1926, in South Bend, to the late Charles and Verna Holcomb. He has been a lifelong resident of Mishawaka. On September 16, 1943, in South Bend, he married Betty R. Campbell, who survives. Along with his wife of 56 years, Betty, survivors include two daughters, Patti A. Sayer of Mishawaka and Diana L. Yoder of North Liberty; two grandchildren, John "Nicky" Sayer of South Bend and Toni Marie Sayer of Mishawaka; a sister-in-law, Donna Bragg of Mishawaka; and his precious cat, Snowball. Ronald J. Yoder, son-in-law, preceded in death on January 2, 1996. Dick retired in 1986 after working in the furniture business for 31 years. He worked with Radio Furniture Mart for 28 years and River Park Furniture for 3 years. He enjoyed playing softball and was a member of the 1953 State Champion softball team. He was inducted into the Bowling Hall of Fame averaging over 200 per game. He was also an avid fisherman and golfer. Dick was a member of the VFW Post 1167 in South Bend and B.K. Club in Mishawaka. He was a World War II Army veteran, serving in the Philippines. He was honorably discharged on May 19, 1946, at the rank of Sergeant, earning the American Theatre Ribbon, Asiatic-Pacific Theatre Ribbon, Philippine Liberation Ribbon, Good Conduct Medal, and Victory Medal of World War II. Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, June 19, 2001, at the Palmer Funeral Home, 2528 Mishawaka Avenue, South Bend. Rev. Greg Crump, pastor of South Side Church of God, will officiate. Military graveside services and burial will follow at Southlawn Cemetery, South Bend. Friends may visit with the family from 4 to 8 p.m. on Monday, June 18th, at the Palmer Funeral Home, South Bend. Contributions in memory of Richard "Dick" C. Holcomb may be donated to Hospice of St. Joseph County, Inc., 111 Sunnybrook Court, South Bend, IN 46637.

Edgar P. Kowalski, M.D.
Sept. 10, 1947- June 10, 2001
Edgar P. Kowalski, M.D., 53, passed away from natural causes on Sunday, June 10, in his home in Las Vegas, Nev. Dr. Kowalski, a former resident of South Bend and Elkhart, Ind., was born in South Bend on Sept. 10, 1947, to Peter and Marie Kowalski, both of whom preceded him in death. He is survived by his wife, Susan; his daughter, Julie Kowalski of Indianapolis, Ind.; his son, Adam Kowalski of South Bend; and by a sister, Judith Fields of San Antonio, Texas. Dr. Kowalski was an emergency room physician and had previously served as a flight surgeon in the United States Air Force. He practiced medicine continually since his graduation in 1971 from the Indiana University School of Medicine in Indianapolis. Dr. Kowalski was also a graduate of the University of Notre Dame School of Law. Arrangements were handled by the Palm Mortuary of Las Vegas. Contributions may be made to MASH Village for the Homeless, 1559 N. Main, Las Vegas, NV 89101.

Patricia A. Lukaszewski
July 20, 1942 - June 15, 2001
Patricia A. Lukaszewski, 58, of Bridge Drive, South Bend, Ind., passed away following an illness at 6:46 a.m. Friday, June 15, in Memor-ial Hospital. She was born July 20, 1942, to Leo and Stella (Hoffman) Niezgodski in South Bend, and was a lifelong resident. She was preceded in death by her father, Leo Niezgodski in 1987. Mrs. Lukaszewski was employed with Access Home Medical/Saint Joseph Regional Medical Center from 1985 until 1995. She worked in accounts receivable and as a pharmacy technician. On Feb. 17, 1962, as Patricia A. Niezgodski, she married Michael E. Lukaszewski in St. Adalbert Catholic Church, South Bend. He survives. She is also survived by two daughters, Laurie A. Lukaszewski and Jill A. Lukaszewski, both of South Bend; a son, Scott Michael Lukaszewski of South Bend; her mother, Stella Niezgodski of South Bend; and by two sisters, Barbara J. Thompson of Mishawaka, Ind., and Christine M. Galwas of South Bend. Mrs. Lukaszewski was a member of St. Anthony De Padua Parish. She was a dedicated mother, especially to her two children, Scott and Jill, who have cerebral palsy. Friends may call from 2 to 8 p.m. today, June 17, in the KaniewskI Funeral Home, 3545 N. Bendix Drive, South Bend. Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Monday, June 18, in the Kaniewski Funeral Home, with Deacon Eugene J. Szynski officiating. Entombment will follow at St. Joseph Cemetery.

John V. Pawlowski
Oct. 17, 1918 - June 16, 2001
John V. Pawlowski, 82, of Lexington Blvd., Mishawaka, Ind., died after a brief illness at 4:15 a.m. Saturday, June 16, in the Saint Joseph Regional Me-dical Center, South Bend, Ind. As the son of Walter and Felicia Paw-lowski, both deceased, John was a graduate of Mishawaka High School, and was an honorably discharged World War II Army veteran. Mr. Pawlowski retired from Wheelabrator-Frye Manufacturing in 1980 after over 40 years of employment. On April 7, 1945, Mr. Pawlowski married Mary Virginia Carnes, who died in June 1974. He was also preceded in death by a son, David, who passed away in February 1988. Their surviving sons and daughters include Richard (Lynn) Pawlowski of Columbia, Md., Edward (Karen) Pawlowski of Mishawaka, Robert Pawlowski of Granger, Ind., Jeanne (Terry) Baum of West Lafayette, Ind., Rita DeVolder of Mishawaka and Angela (Charles) DeMeester of Mishawaka. On Feb. 14, 1976, Mr. Pawlowski married Marjorie Dunning, John's loving wife of over 25 years. Surviving Mr. Pawlowski are three stepchildren, Nancy (David) Truex of Goshen, Ind., Ron (Phyllis) Dunning of Mishawaka and Rebecca (Ron) Morningstar of South Bend. Preceding Mr. Pawlowski's death were three sisters, Irene (Larry) Carter, Alfrieda Pawlowski and Regina Pawlowski. Surviving are a brother, Arthur (Lois) Pawlowski of Mishawaka; and a sister, Jennie (Joseph) Piatkowski of Mishawaka. John is also survived by 24 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren. Mr. Pawlowski was a past member of numerous clubs including the F.O.P., B.K. Club, Eagles, V.F.W., Battell Center Chess Club, and was an officer of the former Kosciuszko Club. As a loving and caring husband, father, grandfather and friend, Mr. Pawlowski will be deeply missed by many. John welcomed everyone with open arms, a sincere handshake or tender hug. He shared his warmth, his smile, and his sense of humor. He demeaned no one, shared his wisdom in a quiet way, and truly cared for the happiness of others. He will be remembered as one of the nicest, kindest, gentlest men who ever lived. Funeral visitation will be held from 2 to 8 p.m. Monday, June 18, in the Thallemer-Goethals Funeral Home, 503 W. 3rd Street, Mishawaka, where a Rosary will be recited at 3:30 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Tuesday in St. Joseph Catholic Church, Mishawaka. Interment will follow at Fairview Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association or to St. Joseph Church.

Jill L. Phillips
Oct. 25, 1975 - April 2001
Jill Lorraine Phillips, 25, of 1410 N. Haiden Drive, Syracuse, Ind., entered into rest April 2001 in Syracuse, Ind. An investigation is pending. Jill was born Oct. 25, 1975, in Niles, Mich., and had lived the last two years in Syracuse. Jill was baptized at Peace Evangelical Church, South Bend. She graduated from Edwardsburg High School in 1994, and had been actively involved in track, choir and drama club. Jill had previously been employed in retail sales by J.C. Penney, L.S. Ayres, J. Riggins and Meijer's. She had worked for Brandy's in Fort Wayne for the last two years. Jill is survived by her mother, Jean A. Phillips Nyhuis, and her stepfather, Tom Nyhuis of Buchanan; maternal grandmother, Evelyn Phillips of Niles; paternal step-grandparents, Elwin and Anne Nyhuis of Edwardsburg, Mich.; three daughters, Trista Phillips of Buchanan, Cheyenne Phillips of Lombard, Ill., Jasmyn Phillips of Niles; a half sister, Andrea Nyhuis of Buchanan; two half brothers, Brandon and Michael Nyhuis of Buchanan; an aunt, Terrie DePoy of Sherman, Texas; three uncles, Joseph Phillips of Niles, Robert Phillips of Edwardsburg and Christopher Phillips of Niles; and many friends. Jill was preceded in death by her maternal grandfather, Kermit L. "Tad" Phillips. Funeral services will be conducted at 2 p.m. Wednesday, June 20, 2001, at Hoven Funeral Home, Buchanan, with Reverend Mike Smith officiating. Family and friends may call from 1 p.m. until time of services on Wednesday in the funeral home. Burial will follow services at Silverbrook Cemetery, Niles. Memorial contributions may be made to her children's trust fund.

Carolyn J. Sanders
Feb. 27, 1940 - June 15, 2001
Mishawaka, IN — Carolyn J. Sanders, 61 years old, residing on Queensboro Avenue, Mishawaka, formerly of Lakeville, passed away at 5:42 a.m. on Friday, June 15, 2001, at the Hospice House in South Bend. Carolyn was born on February 27, 1940, in Lakeville, to the late Willard and Mabel (Smeltzer) Sauer. She lived in Lakeville most of her life, residing in Mishawaka for the past ten years. Carolyn enjoyed playing euchre and loved NASCAR Racing. She was a former member of the American Legion Post 363 Auxiliary in Lakeville and Wyatt Volunteer Fire Department Auxiliary. Survivors include her companion with whom she made her home, Charles Kovach of Mishawaka; one daughter, Kim Clayton of Benton, Ark.; two sons, Alan Sanders of Mishawaka and Billy Sanders of Benton, Ark.; two step-sons, Doug Sanders and Larry Sanders, both of Benton; four grandchildren; nine sisters, Alice Platz of Plymouth, Maxine Harter of Wyatt, Velma Merrill of Lakeville, Catherine Merrill of Louisville, KY, Arlene Jacobs of Mishawaka, Lois Miller of Mishawaka, Fayetta Sauer of Etna Green, Joice Gaines of Lakeville and Jane McCracken of Fort Worth, TX; three brothers, Floyd, Robert and Dale Sauer, all of Lakeville. Two sisters, Mary Gernhart and Jean Battles, and one brother, Vernon Sauer, all preceded in death. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, June 19, 2001, at the Palmer Funeral Home, 314 S. Michigan Street, Lakeville. Brother Steve Nani, CSC, will officiate. Graveside services and burial will follow at Bremen Cemetery, Bremen, IN. Friends may visit with the family from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. on Monday, June 18, at the Palmer Funeral Home, Lakeville. Contributions in memory of Carolyn J. Sanders may be donated to Hospice of St. Joseph County, INC, 111 Sunnybrook Court, South Bend, IN 46637.

Barbara A. Senff
July 3, 1935 - June 12, 2001
Barbara Ann Senff, 65, of 4910 Craig Road, South Bend, Ind., succumbed to cancer at 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, June 12, in her home. She was born in South Bend July 3, 1935, to Kenneth and Violet Pratt, both of Bremen, Ind. On Aug. 9, 1953, she married Jay E. Senff of Bremen. Two children, Debra (Charles) Yates and Scott (Margo) Senff were born to this marriage. She was preceded in death by her mother, Violet. She is survived by her father, Kenneth, 92, of Bremen; her husband, Jay of South Bend; her two children, Debra of Richmond and Scott of South Bend; and by her three grandchildren, Jack, Eric and Emma Senff of South Bend. Barbara graduated from Bremen High School and was voted Miss Bremen in 1953. She worked for Otis Bowen's political campaign for governor, and served 12 years as a state hearing officer for the Bureau of Motor Vehicles. She also worked for Milady Shops for 12 years. Barbara was a 29-year member of Alcoholics Anonymous, and served on the board of directors for Phoenix House. There will be no visitation. A memorial service will be held at 10 a.m. Tuesday, July 3, in River Park United Methodist Church, 920 S. 23rd Street, South Bend. Memorial contributions may be made to the River Park United Methodist Church or to Hospice of St. Joseph County. The Guisinger Colonial Chapel Funeral Home, South Bend, is assisting the Senff family with arrangements.

Audrey E. Deckard
Nov. 30, 1915 - April 11, 2001
Audrey E. Deckard, "Mam," 85, residing on Fairington Circle, South Bend, Ind., passed away at 7:57 a.m. on Wednesday, April 11, in Hospice House, where she had been a patient for one week. She was born on Nov. 30, 1915, in Indianapolis, Ind., as the daughter of Jackson and Alcia Belle (Goolsby) Amos, and had lived in this area since 1949, coming from Indianapolis. On June 28, 1931, in Indianapolis, as Audrey Amos, she married Rev. Clifford C. Deckard, who passed away in January 1976. She was also preceded in death by a daughter, Elsie Howell in 1998; two sons, Paul Eugene Deckard and Charles David Deckard; a sister, Dorothy Pate; and by two brothers, Owen Amos and Lon Pyland. Mrs. Deckard is survived by her daughters, Martha Brantley of South Bend, and Esther and Paul Walters of Statesville, N.C.; a son-in-law, Robert Howell of Trinidad, Colo.; 17 grandchildren, 45 great-grandchildren and seven great-great-grandchildren; and by a sister, Mabel Lawson of Clearwater, Fla. Mrs. Deckard worked very closely with her husband for 45 years in pastoring churches in the Niles, Benton Harbor and South Haven, Mich., communities. She was presently a member of United Pentecostal Church in South Bend. Services will be at 1 p.m. today, April 13, in United Pentecostal Church, 4609 South Ironwood Drive, South Bend. Rev. Kenneth Mendenhall, pastor, will officiate. The family received friends from 4 to 8 p.m. on Thursday in the Palmer Funeral Home, 2528 Mishawaka Avenue, South Bend, and may call from one hour prior to services today in the church. Graveside services and burial will be at 1 p.m. on Saturday, April 14, at Memorial Park Cemetery, Indianapolis, Ind. Contributions in memory of Mrs. Audrey Deckard may be made to Hospice House, 111 Sunnybrook Court, South Bend, IN 46637.

Vernon Kreiger
May 7, 1942 - April 11, 2001
Vernon "Quinn" Kreiger, 58, of Cedar Road, Mishawaka, Ind., passed away on Wednesday, April 11, in his son's home. Mr. Kreiger was born on May 7, 1942, in Argos, Ind., to the late Ken-neth and Isa-belle (Stults) Kreiger. On June 16, 1962, in Argos United Meth-odist Church, he married the former Marlene Berger. Quinn is survived by his wife of 38 years, Marlene; a daughter, Michele (Don) Doan of Osceola, Ind.; two sons, Chris (Lisa) Kreiger of Wakarusa, Ind., and Koby Kreiger of Osceola; five grandchildren, Marie Doan, Quinn Doan, M.J. Doan, Kyle Kreiger and Cory Kreiger. He also leaves behind his faithful dog, Storm. Quinn worked for the South Bend Ironworker Local 292 and became the B.A. of the local for 12 years. In 1979 he became co-owner and president of Trailmaster. Quinn was a member of Mishawaka Masonic Lodge #130, South Bend Scottish Rite, Kentucky Colonel, Club 15, Backwater Retriever Club, Duck's Unlimited, National Wild Turkey Federation, Ironworker Local 292 of South Bend, and the South Bend First Church of the Nazarene. He was also a lifetime member of the St. Joe Valley Bassmasters and B.A.S.S. Visitation will be from 4 to 8 p.m. today, April 13, in the Hahn Funeral Home, 505 West 8th Street, Mishawaka. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, April 14, in South Bend First Church of the Nazarene, with Rev. Jay Ott officiating. There will be one hour of visitation in the church on Saturday before the service. Burial will take place with a graveside service at 9:30 a.m. on Monday, April 16, at Olive Cemetery, Elkhart, Ind. In memory of Quinn, donations may be made to St. Joe Valley Bassmasters to help with the Children's 25th Anniversary Fishing Tournament to be held on August 11, 2001.

Charles F. Luke
July 11, 1912 - April 11, 2001
Charles F. Luke, 88, of Bancroft Circle, Misha-waka, Ind., formerly of Layton Road, Mishawaka, passed away at 6:35 a.m. on Tuesday morning, April 11, in his residence. Mr. Luke was born on July 11, 1912, in Bertrand, Mich., as the son of the late Andrew and Maggie (Meiser) Luke. He was preceded in death by two brothers, Daniel Luke and Albert Luke; and two sisters, Mary Heiner and Bess Browning. On May 11, 1946, in Coalbush United Methodist Church, Mishawaka, he married the former Grace McClary, who also preceded him in death on Dec. 20, 1994. Mr. Luke is survived by two sisters, Florence Lane and Sylvia Oakly, both of Mishawaka; and by two brothers, Clarence Luke of Mishawaka and Andrew Luke of Elkhart, Ind. Mr. Luke was a farmer and worked for the Wyatt Grain Company for 20 years before retiring in 1962. He was a member of Coalbush United Methodist Church, Mishawaka, and was a member of A.A.R.P. Friends may call from 2 to 6 p.m. today, April 13th, in the Hahn Funeral Home, 505 West 8th Street, Mishawaka. Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. on Saturday, April 14th, in the funeral home, with Rev. Jim Davidson officiating. Burial will follow at St. John's Cemetery, Woodland. Contributions in memory of Mr. Luke may be made to the charity of donor's choice.

Alice E. Martin
July 6, 1929 - April 12, 2001
PLYMOUTH - Described by her family as "little, but mighty," Alice E. Martin, 71, who has bravely fought cancer since 1989, died at her residence, 8225 King Road, Plymouth, on Thursday, April 12, 2001. Alice died at 3:40 a.m. in the devoted and loving care of her family and the Marshall County Hospice. A Marshall County resident since 1949, coming from Washington, Ind., Alice and her family has resided on King Road the past 33 years. Born the daughter of Earl P. and Cecelia B. Gootee Walker on July 6, 1929, in Washington, Ind., Alice attended Epsom and Alfordsville, Ind., schools, graduating in 1947. On April 17, 1948, in St. Patrick's Church in Corning, Ind., Alice and Charles D. Martin were married. A busy, energetic person with a great sense of humor, she had worked as a Sears sales clerk and as a cashier at Gas America. She was also a librarian at Lincoln Jr. High School, retiring in 1985. Her grandchildren were all very dear to Alice. She especially enjoyed taking walks with them. She made it a point to be present for almost all of their activities. Alice was fond of needlepoint work and collected handmade quilts. Alice enjoyed traveling; she and her husband visited Germany twice and spent many winters in Texas. An excellent golfer, she enjoyed playing the game with her husband and family, many times outranking them all. She was the Northern Indiana Director of The Golf Card for Seniors. At Plymouth Rock she was the A Flight Champion known for her long drives and was a popular choice in scramble play. A member of St. Michael's Roman Catholic Church, Alice was past-president and a member of the Altar Rosary Society and Harvest House. She was a member of the Women of the Moose, Plymouth Lodge 1355, and the NIPSCO Golf League. Alice and her husband, Charles, would have celebrated their 53rd anniversary on Tuesday, April 17th. Charles survives her death together with their four sons and two daughters. The surviving families are: Richard D. and Sherri Martin and children, Shannda, Chad and Jessica, all of Plymouth; Charles E. and Cathy Martin and their daughters, Pamela, Erica and Sarah of Lakeville; Clifford L. Martin and his daughter, Heather of Port St. Lucie, Florida; William J. and JoAnn Martin and children, Alex and Lauren, all of Bourbon; Mary Anne and Steve Hepler and sons, Nicholas and Anthony Levechio, all of Bourbon; and Susan K. and William Allen and their sons, Cord and Jace, all of Plymouth. Alice was able to enjoy her great-granddaughter, Taylor Saxon. Two brothers, Harold and his wife, Louise Walker of Port Charlotte, Fla., and Ambrose and Mary Ruth Walker, Washington, Ind., and a sister, Mary and Harold Seal of Cannelburg, Ind., several nieces and nephews also survive. Alice was preceded in death by her parents, one brother, LeRoy Walker, and a sister, Carol Walker. Friends are invited to visit with the family on Saturday, April 14, 2001, from 4 to 8 p.m. in the Johnson-Danielson Funeral Home, 1100 N. Michigan St., Plymouth. A Rosary Service will be held at 3:30 p.m. at the funeral home. The Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 9 a.m. on Monday, April 16, 2001, at St. Michael's Roman Catholic Church, 625 N. Center St., Plymouth. Father Anthony Gillespie, pastor of St. Michael's, will officiate. Burial will be in St. Michael's Cemetery, Plymouth. Memorial gifts in Alice's memory may be made to the Marshall County Hospice or the Lymphoma Foundation, P.O. Box 15335, Chevy Chase, MD 20825. Letters of condolence may be sent to the family via http://web.archive.org/web/20010413161118/http://www.johnson-danielson.com/.

Mariano Orta Sr.
July 26, 1923 - April 12, 2001
Mariano Orta Sr., 77, of 829 S. Gladstone Avenue, South Bend, Ind., died at 1:36 a.m. on Thursday, April 12, in Memorial Hospital. He was born on July 26, 1923, in Mexico, and had lived in South Bend for 42 years, coming from Mexico. He retired in 1988 from the University of Notre Dame. He was married in 1949 in Texas to Maria Eva Salas, who died in February 2000. He is survived by four daughters, Irma Orta of Mexico, Nicolassa (Robert) Torres of Texas, Margarita (Fermin) Estrada of Texas and Angelita (Oscar) Sandoval of Texas; four sons, Miguel Orta of Texas, Ricardo (Julia) Orta of South Bend, Mariano (Mary Ann) Orta Jr. of South Bend and David Orta of South Bend; 27 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren; and by his companion for 19 years, Phyllis Nozykowski and the Whitt family. Visitation will be from 2 to 4 p.m. on Saturday in the St. Joseph Funeral Home, 824 S. Mayflower Road, where services will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday. Burial will be at the St. Joseph Cemetery.

Lena E. Williams
March 18, 1916 - April 7, 2001
Lena Earlee Williams, 85, of Cassopolis, Mich., died of natural causes on Saturday, April 7, in the Cass County Medical Facility. Lena was born on March 18, 1916, in Thomasville, Ala. She was united in holy matrimony to Cornelius Williams on Nov. 30, 1938, in Linden, Ala. He preceded her in death. She was also preceded in death by four brothers, a daughter-in-law, three grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, and by a sister. She was formerly employed as a homemaker and farmer. She resided with her husband in Chicago, Ill., and Gary, Ind., before making her home at 18024 Chain Lake Street, Cassopolis. She is survived by her sons, Cornelius Williams of Mount Clemens, Mich., and Trenholm C. Williams Sr. of Cassopolis; 20 grandchildren, 42 great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren; seven sisters; two daughters-in-law; a brother (missing); and by a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Services will be at 1:30 p.m. on Saturday in Chain Lake Baptist Church, Cassopolis, where friends may call from noon until time of services. Additional services will be at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, April 17, in Mosley Funeral Home, 43 South Hwy, Thomasville, Ala., where burial will be at Airmount Cemetery, Thomasville. The Robbins Brothers Funeral Home, Benton Harbor, is handling local arrangements. The family would like to thank everyone for their condolences, thoughts and well-wishes.

Helen V. Wykoff
June 3, 1913 - April 11, 2001
Helen V. Wykoff, 87, of Hamilton Grove in New Carlisle, Ind., passed away on Wednesday, April 11, in Saint Joseph's Re-gional Medical Center, South Bend, Ind. Mrs. Wykoff was born on June 3, 1913, in St. Joseph County, to the late Elmer and Clara (Hooten) Moffitt, and had lived most of her life at Hudson Lake in New Carlisle. Helen married Clarence H. Wykoff, who preceded her in death on Jan. 2, 1957. She was also preceded in death by three sisters and four brothers. She is survived by two daughters, Sandra (Jim) Fox of Elkhart, Ind., and Linda (Roger) Galloway of LaPorte, Ind.; two sons, Carl (Barbara) Wykoff of Elkhart and Dean (Rosie) Wykoff of Niles, Mich.; 11 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren; a sister, Mary Horn of Hollywood, Fla.; and by three brothers, Robert and Dale Moffitt of New Carlisle, and Rich Moffitt of South Bend. Visitation will be from 4 to 8 p.m. today, April 13, in the KANIEWSKI Funeral Home, 201 S. Filbert Street, New Carlisle. Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, April 14, in the Kaniewski Funeral Home, with burial to follow at Hamilton Cemetery, New Carlisle. Mrs. Wykoff retired from Hamilton Grove in 1981 after 10 years of service. She was a member of Hamilton Church. Memorial contributions may be made to Hamilton Grove, 31869 Chicago Trail, New Carlisle, IN 46552-9640.

James W. Dill
Jan. 24, 1943 - Nov. 5, 2001
MISHAWAKA — James W. Dill, 58, of Kern Road, Mishawaka, Ind., passed away after an extended illness at 7:42 p.m. Monday, Nov. 5th, in his residence. Mr. Dill was born on Jan. 24, 1943, in South Bend, Ind., and was a lifetime resident of the Michiana area. Mr. Dill is survived by his family, Marigrace Dill, and a daughter, Jennifer L. Bennett, Granger, Ind.; and two sons, Brian L. Rose and Eric A. Rose, both of Elkhart, Ind.; six loving grandchildren, whom he loved and cherished; a sister, Phyllis Erp of Florida; and by several nieces and nephews. Jim was a veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps, and proudly served his great country which he often spoke of with pride. He was also a member of Indiana Trail R iders, and enjoyed his free time camping and riding his horse with his friends. He was an avid animal lover, and loved to watch and care for all his pets. Jim will not only be sadly missed by his family but by numerous friends he had during his life journey. Friends may visit with the family from 2 to 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 10, in the Hanley & S ons "Southwest C hapel" Funeral Home, located at West Ireland Road and Indiana 23, South Bend. A memorial service will be held at 4 p.m. Saturday in the funeral home. Cremation has taken place. The family request that all memorial contributions be made to Hospice of St. Joseph County, 111 Sunnybrook C ourt, South Bend, IN 46637. The HANLEY & Sons "Southwest Chapel" Funeral Home handled arrangements and services and extend deepest sympathy and heartfelt prayers to the Dill family.

Robert V. Gilroy
July 7, 1924 - Nov. 5, 2001
Robert V. Gilroy, 77, passed away Monday, Nov. 5, in the Saint Joseph Regional Medical Center. Bob was born July 7, 1924, in Wilkes-Barre, Pa., to the late William F. Gilroy and Sarah O'Malley. On June 17, 1946, Bob married Helen Brady in Inkerman, Pa. She survives. Bob was a World War II Navy veteran and a graduate of the University of Scranton. Bob received his master's degree from the University of Notre Dame and was also a teaching fellowship in biology at Notre Dame. Bob had a successful career in sales management. He was most recently the director of sales and marketing for Cycle Dispatch and Delivery Courier. He had also been the president of Gilroy-Mayes Pharmaceutical Inc. Bob was active in the community by being involved in many clubs and organizations. Bob was a member of the Notre Dame Club of St. Joe Valley, a member of the board of directors for Guisinger C olonial Chapel Funeral Home, headquarters chairman of P artners in Progress, a former member of the Knights of Columbus, and was a member of VFW #1167. Bob is survived by his wife, Helen; his son, Robert V. (Jennifer) Gilroy Jr. of Chillicothe, Ohio; a daughter, Kathleen (Tim) Murray of Granger, Ind.; and by three granddaughters, Katie and Kelly Murray, and Caroline Gilroy. Visitation for Bob will be from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. today in the Guisinger Colonial Chapel, 3718 S. Michigan Street, with a 7 p.m. vigil service. Funeral service will be at 10 a.m. Friday in St. Matthew Cathedral. Memorials in B ob's name may be made to the American Lung Association, to the Bishop Crowley Education fund, or to your own charity of choice.

Sue Karkiewicz
Oct. 2, 1958 - Nov. 6, 2001
Sue Karkiewicz, 43, of Mahomet, Ill., formerly of Granger, Ind., died at 2 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 6, in Provena Covenant Hospital, Champaign, Ill. She was born Oct. 2, 1958, in Michigan City, Ind., and was the daughter of John and Judith (Grabowski) Plant. A brother, Michael, preceded her in death with her parents on July 31, 1976. On Oct. 30, 1982, in Michigan City, as Sue Plant, she married Mark Karkiewicz, who survives. She is also survived by two daughters, Julie Karkiewicz and Kristen Karkiewicz, both of Mahomet; an aunt, Arletta Bootcheck of Michigan City; and by four cousins, Nancy Blue of Danville, Ill., Debbie Bootcheck of Chicago, Ill., Patricia Lamb of C handler, Ariz., and James Bootcheck of Michigan City. Sue Karkiewicz was a member of the Elkhart C ounty C.P.C.U. Society, St. Joseph County Claims Association and the St. Joseph County Women's Insurance Association. Sue was a graduate of Ball State University in 1980, and was a former member of St. Pius X before moving to Champaign. Family and friends may call from 2 to 8 p.m. today in the ST. JOSEPH FUNERAL HOME, 824 S. Mayflower Road, where a R osary will be held at 4:30 p.m. Services will be held at 11 a.m. Friday in St. Pius X Catholic Church, where friends may call one hour before the M ass from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Burial will be at St. Joseph Cemetery.

Louetta B. Lovitt
March 24, 1915 - Nov. 6, 2001
Louetta Belle Lovitt, 86, of South Bend, Ind., died Tuesday, Nov. 6, in Valleyview Health C are, Elkhart, Ind. She was born in Marshall County, Ind., on March 24, 1915. As Louetta Belle Werntz, she married Wilbur J. Lovitt in Kalamazoo, Mich., in 1934. Mr. Lovitt died on Jan. 31, 1989. She was also preceded in death by her sisters, Florence Lovitt and Betty Keppler; and by her brothers, Charles, Cleo, Elmer and Dale Werntz. She is survived by two daughters, Andrea Kollars and Karen Lovitt-Pauwels, both of South Bend; sons, Jack (Lois) Lovitt of South Bend, Roger (Betty) Lovitt of Elkhart and Chris Lovitt of Mishawaka, Ind.; and by 14 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren. Family and friends may call from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. today, Nov. 8, in the FOREST G. HAY FUNERAL HOME. Mrs. Lovitt's funeral services will be at 1 p.m. today in the funeral home. Rev. James Nichols, pastor of Westside Church of Christ to which Mrs. Lovitt belonged, will officiate. Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of St. Joseph County.

Edward J. Meehan
May 14, 1925 - Nov. 6, 2001
Edward John Meehan, 76, of Woodlawn Boulevard, passed away early Tuesday morning, Nov. 6, in Hospice House of St. Joseph County. He was born May 14, 1925, to the late Edward John Sr. and Gert-rude (Dorsch-ner) Meehan. His beloved brother, James F. (Marie) Meehan preceded him in death in 1996. In June 1948 he married Norma Luise Booth, who survives, as do his three children, Terrance Patrick (Carol) of South Bend, Ind., Timothy James (Chris) of Carmel, Ind., and Mary Meehan ( M ark) Firtl of South Bend. He is also survived by his pride and pleasure - his six grandchildren, Aaron, Marcy, Kate, Sean, Patrick and Lyndsey. After graduation from Central High School in South Bend he attended Notre Dame, graduating from the School of Business in 1949. Ed was a retired naval intelligence officer, serving the Navy in the V-5 program during World War II, and was a member of the Naval Reserve and the Retired Officers Association. Most of his career was spent as a safety engineer and consultant counseling manufacturers, and he was a Veterans of Safety International inductee. He was founding member of the Michiana Chapter of the American Society of Safety Engineers, and a long-time state board member of the Occupational Health Nurses Association. His expertise led to a volunteer position on the city's M ayor's Citizens Traffic Safety Committee at Century Center for children at Rum Village Park. Always devoted to Notre Dame, he belonged to and was an officer of the Notre Dame C lub of St. Joseph V alley. His father was a track coach at Notre Dame under Knute Rockne, and friendship with the legendary coach influenced his lifetime enthusiasm for following the football team. As a member of Holy Cross C hurch, Ed served as Eucharistic Minister and worked on many committees to enrich his parish. He was a founding member of the St. Joseph Valley P arole Sponsors, a program for mentoring recently released prisoners, finding them work and easing the transition. He was a member of the South Bend Press C lub. A true Renaissance man, Edward loved gardening and galleries designing and building, traveling and beach-walking. Ed served on the garden committee at the Northern Indiana Center for History in the revitalization of the Copshaholm gardens. He was also the Knights of Columbus #553 Lourdes Pilgrim recipient in 2000. In the early 1980s, he was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease and bravely lived his life with as much normalcy as possible. Friends may call from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. today in the Welsheimer Funeral H ome North, 17033 Cleveland Road, where a parish R osary will be recited at 3:30 p.m. Services will be at 11 a.m. Friday, Nov. 9, in Holy Cross Catholic Church, with Rev. James Foster, CSC, officiating. Cremation will take place at Michiana Crematory, with burial to follow at Riverview Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of St. Joseph County, 111 Sunnybrook Court, South Bend, IN 46637; to the National Parkinson's Foundation, P.O. Box 39, Riverdale, MD 20738-9900; or to the Northern Indiana Center for History, 808 W. Washington, South Bend, IN 46601.

Gladys M. Schadler
Aug. 2, 1925 - Nov. 6, 2001
On Nov. 6, 2001, the Lord called home H is faithful servant, Gladys Minnie Schadler of Stevensville, Mich., after a long and courageous 15-year battle with cancer. She died at home in the loving arms of her family. Funeral visitation for family and friends will be held from 3 to 5 and 7 to 9 p.m. today, Nov. 8, in the Starks and Menchinger Family Funeral Home, 2650 Niles Road, St. Joseph, Mich. A service celebrating her life will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, Nov. 9, in Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church in Stevensville. Rev. Kenneth Ferrier and Rev. Phillip Quardokus will officiate. Burial will be at Hickory Bluff Cemetery. Gladys was born Aug. 2, 1925, in Dowagiac, Mich., to Emil and Gladys (Jones) Deutscher. She was preceded in death by her parents, and by a brother, Ward Deutscher. She attended Cass County Normal and Western Michigan University. She taught seven years at Barron Lake-Howard County Schools and Tryon Corners School. Gladys also substituted 15 years for the Lakeshore School system. For the past 45 years she has been part- owner and operator of Schadler's Shed in Stevensville. She is survived by her loving husband of 53 years, Clarence "Buck" Schadler; two children, Kenneth (Ronda) Schadler and Terrie (Michael) Smith, both of Stevensville; and three grandchildren, Michael Smith, Amber Smith and Amy Heimbuch, all of Stevensville. She is also survived by two brothers, Arthur Deutscher of Climax, Mich., and Harold (Nita) Deutscher of California; and by a sister, Dolores (Robert) Valk of Wyoming, Mich. Gladys will surely be missed by all who made her acquaintance and have witnessed her tremendous, inspiring courage and her great love for life. Memorials may be made to Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church, to the Berrien County Cancer Service, or to Hospice at Home (Stevensville office).

Mary A. Wendowski
Dec. 5, 1907 - Nov. 7, 2001
Mary A. Wendowski, 93, of West Sample Street, South Bend, Ind., died at 4:10 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 7, in the Saint Joseph Regional Medical Center. She was born Dec. 5, 1907, in S outh Bend, and was the daughter of Frank and Ann (Duszynski) Wendowski. Miss Wendowski was employed by the former Wilson Brothers/Opelika. She was a member of the Senior Citizens C lub, the Rosary Society, St. Ann's Society and the church choir, all of St. Casimir Catholic C hurch. Miss Wendowski is survived by five nieces, Jeanine Woolverton, Georgiane Fuentes, Denise Blanche, Melanie Adams, all of South Bend, and Laura Wendowski of Denver, Colo.; five nephews, James Gadacz and Phillip Wendowski, both of South Bend, Paul Wendowski of Columbus, Ind., Greg Wendowski of Osceola, Ind., and Matthew Wendowski of South B end; several great- and great-great-nieces and nephews; and by two sisters-in-law, Marian Wendowski and Clara Wendowski. She was preceded in death by her sisters and brothers, Irene, Louise, Helen, Modest and Ernest Wendowski, and Esther Gadacz. Family and friends may call from 2 to 8 p.m. Friday in the ST. JOSEPH FUNERAL HOME, 824 S. Mayflower R oad, where a R osary will be said at 3:30 p.m. Services will be held at 9 a.m. Saturday in St. Casimir Catholic Church, with burial to follow at St. Joseph Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Casimir Catholic Church, 1308 W. Dunham Street, South Bend, IN 46619.

Robert G. Wright
Aug. 23, 1934 - Nov. 5, 2001
SOUTH BEND , IN — Robert Gene Wright, 67 years old, residing on E. Washington Street, South Bend, passed away at 5:28 p.m. on Mon-day, November 5, 2001, at the St. Joseph Regional Medical C enter, South Bend, after a long-term battle with cancer. Mr. Wright was born on August 23, 1934, in New Castle, IN, to the late J. Victor and Gladys (Shriver) Wright. He has resided in South Bend since 1970, moving from Elkhart. In 1953, in New Castle, he married Patricia (Lovely) Auld, who resides in Elkhart. On August 8, 1970, in South Bend, he married Shirley A. (Trost) Schreiber-Wright, who survives. Along with his wife, Shirley, survivors include two sons, Gene (Julie) Wright of Elkhart and John (Stephanie) Wright of Elkhart; one stepdaughter, DiAnn S. (Terry) Becker of South Bend; one stepson, Philip (Julie) Schreiber of Granger; one daughter-in-law, Leesa Schreiber of South Bend; seven grandchildren, Michael (Jessica) Schreiber II, Mark Schreiber, Andrew Schreiber, Lucas Wright, Maggie Wright, Clark Wright and Mollie Wright; and one great-grandson, Avery Schreiber. O ne stepson, Michael Schreiber, and one brother, Donald Wright, preceded in death. Mr. Wright was a long-term sales representative for W.W. Granger and Air Equipment in Elkhart and the retired owner of For Pets Sake Pet Store in South Bend. Mr. Wright was an officer for the Benevolent Protective Order of the Elks #235 in Elkhart, officer for the Fraternal Order of the Eagles #95, Elkhart, Mercator Club, Charter and Booster member of the South Bend Silverhawks, Usher for the University of Notre Dame football and basketball games, and an avid fan of Notre Dame Girls Basketball. Mr. Wright graduated in 1952 from Sulfur Springs High School, Sulfur Springs, IN, where he played on the basketball team, and he was a member of the Indiana National Guard. Mr. Wright was an avid bowler and sports fan. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, November 9, 2001, at the Palmer Funeral Home, 2528 Mishawaka Avenue, South Bend. Rev. Steve Braden, pastor of the First Presbyterian Church in Elkhart, will officiate. Cremation will follow. Friends may visit with the family from 4 to 8 p.m. today, November 8, at the Palmer Funeral Home, South Bend. Contributions in memory of Robert Gene Wright may be donated to the Potawatomi Zoological Society, 500 S. Greenlawn Avenue, South Bend, IN 46615.

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