Boyd R. Cardin, 90
Former owner of Cardin’s Home Store in Liberty Center, Boyd R. Cardin, 90, of Bluffton, died at 8:20 p.m. Thursday, Aug.19 at Meadowvale Health & Rehabilitation Center. Mr.Heyerly also was a former manager in the meat department at Heyerly’s Market and retired in 1977 as meat department manager at the Markle Mall Grocery Store. He also worked for Miller Seed Corn Company. Born Feb. 27, 1914 in Madisonville, Tenn., to Alfred and Grace Humphries Cardin, his marriage on May 17, 1936 in Sweetwater, Tenn. was to Pauleta F. “Polly” Torbett, who survives. A resident of Wells County for 60 years, he was one of the organizers of the Liberty Center Lions Club, of which he was the charter president. He was a 50-plus member of the Bluffton Masonic Lodge 145 and the Fort Wayne Scottish Rite. He was a member of the Liberty Center Baptist Church. After graduation from Friendsville Academy in Vonore, Tenn., he worked on the Manhattan Project in Oakridge, Tenn., being deferred from induction into the military on three occasions by the U.S. government to continue his work on that project during World War II. In addition to the wife, other survivors include two daughters, Mrs. Richard (Carolyn A.) Stinson of Bluffton and Mrs. Ken (Sonja K.) Buckler of Middlebury; a son, Brent R. Cardin of Tipton; two brothers, Norman Cardin of Camp Verde, Ariz., and Marvin Cardin of Churubusco; a sister, Merle Wilkin of Uniondale; nine grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a grandson, Rod Stinson, two sisters and a brother. Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday at Thoma/Rich, Hewitt & Chaney Funeral Home with Rev. Dan Sommer officiating and burial in Elm Grove Cemetery. Calling at the funeral home will be from 12 noon to 8 p.m. Sunday and for one hour prior to the services on Monday. Masonic rites by Bluffton Lodge 145 will be at 8 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to the Liberty Center Baptist Church.

Mary Belle Simerman, 79
Mary Belle Simerman, 79, rural Ossian, died at 7:55 a.m. today, Aug. 20, at Ossian Health & Rehabilitation. Born in Delaware County May 4, 1925 to Ermal and Anna Pool Hodson, she was married to Roger Simerman who preceded her in death Nov. 18, 1991. A member of the Ossian United Methodist Church, she was also a member of the Ossian Eastern Star, a Girl Scout leader and a Brownie leader. She was a homemaker and had formerly worked at House of Flowers in Ossian. Survivors include two sons, Steve of rural Ossian and Lanny of rural Markle; a daughter, Mrs. Mike (Janice) Tryon of Berkeley, Calif.; two brothers, Jay Hodson of New Haven and Jack Hodson of Lodi, Calif.; eight grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren and two step-great-grandchildren. Services at 2 p.m. Tuesday will be held at Elzey-Patterson-Rodak Funeral Home in Ossian with Rev. Tim Dilley officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Lawn Cemetery. Calling at the funeral home will be 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Monday. Memorials may be made to the Ossian United Methodist Church.

Pauline Nichelson, 89
Pauline Nichelson, 89, Warren, died at 7:00 a.m. Thursday, August 19 at the Warren United Methodist Memorial Home. Born in Wells County on Aug. 11, 1915 to Jess and Mary Ellen Kleinknight Daughtery, she married Claude L. Nichelson on Nov. 9, 1935 in Coldwater, Mich.; he died Feb. 22, 1995. A 1933 graduate of Lancaster Township School, she was a homemaker and also worked in the dietary department at the United Methodist Memorial Home for 33 years. She retired in 1985 and became a resident there in 1995. She was a member of the Church of Christ in Uniontown. Survivors include a son, Gene Nichelson of Warren; a daughter, Patsy Slagle of Deland, Fla.; six grandchildren; 22 great grandchildren; and four great-great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a grandson. There will be no calling hours. A graveside service will be held Saturday at 10 a.m. at Woodlawn Cemetery in Warren with Rev. John Wallace officiating. Arrangements are being handled by Glancy Funeral Homes, H. Brown & Son Chapel in Warren.

August 14, 2004

Floyd A. Runyon, 73
Retired after 46 years of service at Franklin Electric Co.,. Floyd A. Runyon, 73, of Bluffton, died suddenly at 1:25 a.m. Friday, Aug. 13, at his residence. Mr. Runyon retired from Franklin Electric’s engineering department in 1995 after 46 years of service. A 1949 graduate of Lancaster High School, he was a veteran of the Korean Conflict with the U.S. Army from 1951 to 1953. He was a member of IOOF, American Legion Post 111 and the First United Methodist Church. He also was a member and the original president of the Bluffton Bowling Hall of Fame and a past president of the local bowling league. He was a longstanding member of the Parlor City Country Club and was an avid golfer, fisherman and bowler. He also coached baseball leagues in Bluffton for 12 years and vacationed with his family yearly in Minnesota. Born Jan. 16, 1931 in Southey, Saskatchewan, Canada to Alton T. and Stella Soli Runyon, his marriage on Jan. 22, 1955 in Bluffton was to the former Evelyn J. Messick, who survives. He had been a resident of Wells County since 1943. Also surviving are a daughter, Mrs. Dave (Vikki) Booth of Bluffton; three sons, David Runyon of Decatur and Patrick and Daniel Runyon, both of Bluffton; a sister, Vivian Andrews of Bluffton; and six grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a sister, Marilyn Milholland. Calling will be at Thoma/Rich, Hewitt & Chaney Funeral Home from 6 to 8 p.m. today and on Sunday from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Funeral services will be at 10:30 a.m. Monday at the funeral home with Rev. Gary Lewis officiating and burial in Greenwood Cemetery at Linn Grove. Military honors will be performed by the American Legion Post 111 of Bluffton at the cemetery. Preferred memorials are to the American Cancer Society.

Richard D. Walker, 64
A native of Ossian, Richard D. Walker, 64, died Saturday, Aug. 7 at Lawnwood Memorial Hospital in Fort Pierce, Fla. Mr. Walker had been a resident of Fort Pierce since 1985, coming from Fort Wayne. Prior to his retirement and disability, he was director of the radiology department and chief technician at Lutheran Hospital. Survivors include two daughters, Melinda Doehrman of Brownsburg and Tami Jo Krumma of Fort Wayne; a foster son, Larry Lambert of Fort Pierce; his mother, Wilma G. Templin of Fort Pierce; a sister, Jacqui Goshorn of Ossian; a step-brother, Robert E. Templin of Scottsdale, Ariz., a step sister, Carol Hierman of Cedar Grove, N.C., and six grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his father, Darwin A. Walker. He was of the Lutheran faith, Missouri Synod. Memorials may be made to the Ossian Methodist Church or Trinity Lutheran Church in Fort Pierce.

Roland N. Hisner, 84
A lifelong farmer and retired from Rea Wire after 37 years of service, Rowland N. Hisner, 84, of Allen County died Thursday, Aug. 12 at his residence. A veteran of World War II with the U.,S. Army, he was a member of Nine Mile United Methodist Church and the Rea Wire 25-Year Club. Born Nov. 23, 1919 in Hoagland, he is survived by his wife of 60 years, Ruth M. Hisner; a daughter, Marsha K. Hisner of Fort Wayne; a son, Rick L. Hisner of Ossian; two brothers, Gerald Hisner of Hoagland and Parnell Hisner of Monroeville; three granddaughters and one great granddaughter. He was preceded in death by a son, Steven M. Hisner, a brother, Gordon Hisner, and a sister, Marvene Hisner. Services will be held at 11 a.m. Monday at Nine Mile United Methodist Church. Calling will be Sunday from 1 to 5 p.m. at Elzey-Patterson-Rodak Home for Funerals, Fort Wayne, and one hour before the funeral at the church on Monday. Burial will be in Maple Lawn Nine Mile Cemetery.

Merlin D. “Doc” Studebaker, 80
A native of Wells County, Merlin D. “Doc” Studebaker, 80, of Logansport, died Friday, Aug. 13 at Memorial Hospital in Logansport. Born Aug. 28, 1923 in Uniondale to Clay A. and L. Etta Wert Studebaker, his marriage on Sept. 23, 1945 in Logansport was to the former Patricia A. Noonan, who survives. He was a former co-owner of Studebaker Construction Co., and Cass County Stone, Inc. He was a member of the St. James Lutheran Church, Masonic Lodge, Scottish Rite Valley of Fort Wayne; Mizpah Temple of Fort Wayne; Logansport Shrine Club, VFW Post 3790 and American Legion Post 60. A veteran of the U.S. Army in World War II he was a 1941 graduate of Union Center High School in Wells County. In addition to the wife, other survivors include a daughter, Connie Hallam of Logansport; a brother, Richard E. “Tink” Studebaker of Logansport; two grandchildren and six great grandchildren. Services will be held at 11 a.m. Monday at St. James Lutheran Church in Logansport with calling to be Sunday from 1 to 6 p.m. at Gundrum Funeral Home in Logansport. Calling also on Monday at the church one hour prior to services. There will be a Masonic Service Sunday at 5:30 p.m. followed by a Shriners Walk By. Preferred memorials to the church or the Shriners Hospitals for Children.

August 16, 2004

Larry G. McDonald, 54
Larry G. McDonald, 54, Bluffton, died at 9:52 p.m. Friday, August 13 at Lutheran Hospital in Fort Wayne. A native and life long resident of Bluffton, he was born March 25, 1950. A 1968 graduate of Bluffton High School, he worked in the ice room at Bluffton Rubber Co. Survivors include his mother, Mary Ellen Wible Fox of Bluffton; a son, Tyson McDonald of Bluffton; two daughters, Trena McDonald of Fort Wayne and Jade Marie McDonald of Decatur; three sisters, Mrs. Earl (Jane) Harris and Mrs. Bill (Bekkee) Barkdull, both of Bluffton and Suzie Dicky of Decatur; a brother, William “Dink” Fox of Bluffton; and four grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his father, Gene McDonald. Services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday at Goodwin Memorial Chapel in Bluffton with Rev. Dan York officiating. Calling hours are today from 2 to 8 p.m. and for one hour prior to the service. Burial will be in Six Mile Cemetery. Preferred memorials to the family.

Billy R. Wafford, 69
Services for Billy R. “Wild Bill” Wafford, 69, of Bluffton, will be held Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. at the Goodwin Memorial Chapel. He died at 7:26 a.m. Sunday, August 15 at Lutheran Hospital in Fort Wayne. Born in Benedict, Va. on June 3, 1935 to Julian and Gracie Lands Wafford, he married Dianne Jones on April 22, 1973 in Bluffton; she survives. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army and was a carpenter and construction worker. He attended the Gilead Church. Other survivors include two sons, Billy Ray Wafford, Jr. of Bluffton and Pastor Richard W. Wafford of Pennville, who will officiate at the service; a daughter, Ashley Wafford of Bluffton; four sisters, Edith Spacey and Wilma Kiser, both of Bluffton, Mamie Speers of Tenn. and Mary Speers of Washington; four grandchildren; two step grandchildren; and two great grandchildren. Calling hours are Tuesday from 2 to 8 p.m. Burial will be in the Mossburg Cemetery in Liberty Center with graveside rites by the American Legion.

Carl A. Johnson, 81
A former resident of Yoder, Carl A. Johnson, 81, of Fort Wayne, died Saturday, Aug. 14 at Ossian Health Care and Rehabilitation Center. Born in Yoder on Feb. 12, 1923 to Alfred and Edith Counselor Johnson, he was a steelworker and welder for G.E., retiring in 1985. He was a veteran of World War II, serving in the U.S. Army and was a member of the New Haven American Legion and a retired member of the I.U.E. Electrical Workers. Survivors include two sons, Thomas C. Johnson of Orland and Stephen A. Johnson of Fort Wayne; a daughter, Barbara Bontempo of Fort Wayne; a step son, Arthur Ginter of Harrod, Ohio; two sisters, Dorothy Patten of Ossian and Norma Snyder of Fort Wayne; three brothers, Robert Johnson of Hamilton, and Raymond and Merle Johnson, both of Fort Wayne; 14 grandchildren, 27 great grandchildren and a devoted friend, Betty Sizemore of Yoder. He was preceded in death by his wife, Betty; a step son, Frances Ginter; a brother, Arlon Johnson; a sister, Mary Dowty; and one grandson. Services will be held Wednesday at 11 a.m. at the Elzey Patterson Rodak Funeral Home in Ossian, with calling there Tuesday from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Graveside military rites will be performed by the New Haven American Legion. Burial will be in Oak Lawn Cemetery in Ossian. Preferred memorials to Parkinson disease research.

Harvey D. Schwartz, 60
A former co-owner of Swiss Maid Bakery, and D.L. Schwartz Blacksmith Shop, Harvey D. Schwartz, 60, of rural Berne, died Saturday, Aug. 14 at his residence. Funeral services will be held at the residence Tuesday at 9 a.m. Burial will be in Schwartz Cemetery at Monroe. Calling today until 8 p.m. at the residence, located at 2198 South, U.S. 27.

August 17, 2004

Robert D. Blocker, 79
A 1943 graduate of Rockcreek High School, Robert D. Blocker, 79, of Huntington, died at 1:40 a.m. Friday, Aug. 16, at Lutheran Hospital in Fort Wayne. Born Feb. 9, 1925 to Lester and Edith Kleinknight Blocker, his marriage to the former Pauline Keefer took place Sept. 17, 1949. She survives. He was the owner of Blocker Blue Flame in Huntington which was later consolidated into Blocker Ag Service. He retired after 38 years of service to the business. A member of the SS Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Huntington, Mr. Blocker was a WWII Air Force veteran, a member of the Fourth Degree Knights of Columbus, the Evening Exchange Club, and the South Side Business Association. Surviving are sons Dennis, Darrell, David and Daniel, all of Huntington; daughter Mrs. Joseph (Diana) McGinty of Winter Springs, Fla., a brother, Jim, of Palm Harbour Fla.; 14 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. A sister, Alice McClure, preceded him in death. Calling hours are 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 9 p.m. Wednesday at McElhaney-Hart Funeral Home, Huntington, with recitation of the Rosary at 6 p.m. on Wednesday. Mass of Christian burial will be Thursday at 10 a.m. at SS Peter and Paul Catholic Church with Father Ron Rieder officiating. Burial will follow in Mt. Calvary Cemetery. Memorials are to be made to the American Heart Association, American Diabetes Association or SS Peter and Paul Catholic Church.

August 18, 2004

I. Lucille Biberstein, 87
A former employee at the Dutch Mill restaurant, I. Lucille Biberstein, 87, of rural Bluffton, died at 8:32 a.m. Tuesday, Aug. 17 at Markle Health Care, where she had been a resident since 2000. She was employed at the Dutch Mill for 17 years and also worked for 13 years at Keebler Co., retiring from there in 1993. Born Nov. 1, 1916 in Wells County to John and Emma Scrogham Plummer, her marriage on July 8, 1934 in Berne was to Wilmer Biberstein,who preceded her in death on March 17, 1999. Survivors include a son, Richard Biberstein of Bluffton; two daughters, Mrs. James (Carol) Levy of Houston, Tex., and Mrs. Frank (Shirley) Gaier of Bluffton; a brother, Paul Plummer of Syracuse; nine grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a brother, John Plummer Jr. Services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday at Goodwin Memorial Chapel with Dr. Dave Biberstein officiating and burial in Six Mile Cemetery. Calling at the funeral home will be Thursday from 1 to 8 p.m. Preferred memorials are to Hospice of Northeast Indiana.

Delories V. Grissell, 89
A former resident of Pennville and a retired Pennville and Bluffton telephone operator, Delories V. Grissell, 89, died Tuesday, Aug. 17, 2004, at Meadowvale Health & Rehabilitation Center in Bluffton. She was the mother of longtime Bluffton resident Jerry Grissell, who, along with his wife, Connie, moved this summer to Bell Lake in Hamilton, Ind. Before going to Meadowvale, Mrs. Grissell lived for several years at Capri Apartments in Bluffton. She retired in 1976 from Bell Atlantic Phone Company in Baltimore, Md., after working for the telephone company over 20 years including four years in Pennville and Bluffton. She was a member of the Pennville United Methodist Church, Rebekah Lodge of Pennville, Delta Theta Tau of Pennville and the Telephone Pioneers of Bluffton. She moved from Pennville to Bluffton in 1981. Born Dec. 31, 1914 in Jay County, she was a daughter of Christian and Ethel Cash Cart. Her marriage was on May 17, 1933, to Charles W. Grissell, who died Feb. 1, 1952. Surviving in addition to the former Bluffton son, are nine grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren and 3 great-great-grandchildren. Another son, Charles (Bud) Grissell, died in 1999. Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Friday in the Pennville Chapel of the Williamson & Spencer Funeral Home with Rev. Chris Tiedeman officiating. Burial will be in Twin Hill IOOF Cemetery, Pennville. Friends may call at the Pennville Chapel from 3 to 7 p.m. Thursday.

Robert H. Kline, 82
Robert H. Kline, 82, of Huntington, died Tuesday, Aug. 17 at his residence. He was a member of the New Beginnings Worship Center where he served as an elder. A 1940 graduate of Union Township High School, he worked for 30 years at Triad-Utrad, retiring in 1984 as a foreman. Born Oct. 17, 1921 in Huntington to Frank Henry and Justine Reed Kline, he was married on Sept., 1, 1947 in Huntington to Pauline Harris, who survives. Other survivors include a son, Milton, of Fort Wayne; two daughters, Rhonda Mishler and Karen Wolf, both of Huntington;; 12 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. Also surviving is a brother, Donald Kline of Austin, Tex. He was preceded in death by a brother and two sisters. Calling will be Thursday from 4 to 8 p.m. at Myers Funeral Home, Huntington Chapel, where services will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday with Pastor Wilbur Whitaker officiating. Burial will be in Pilgrims Rest Cemetery in Huntington. Preferred memorials to the Gideon’s International or John Bevere Ministries.

Thomas Paul Derloshon Sr., 93
Father of Tammara Juliana Horn of Ossian and a 37-year Fort Wayne postal clerk who retired in 1968, Thomas Paul Derloshon Sr., 93, died Monday, Aug. 16, 2004, at Lutheran Hospital in Fort Wayne. Born in Fort Wayne, he was an Army veteran of World War II and a member of American Legion Post. He also was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Fort Wayne, Holy Name Society and a volunteer at Lutheran Hospital. Surviving, in addition to the Ossian daughter, are his wife, the former Violet Ann Tescula; five sons, Thomas Paul Jr. and Timothy John, both of Indianapolis, Theodore Charles of Elizabeth, Ind., Tobias Michael of Arvada, Colo., and Terrence Francis of Dexter, Mich.; three additional daughters, Teresa Marie McKeddie of Van Wert, Ohio, Trinita Lodovica Lung of Fort Wayne and Tabitha Ann Scarpella of St. Mary’s, Ohio; 27 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a brother, John A. “Jack” Derloshon, and a sister, Helen M.Doll. A mass of Christian burial will be at 10:30 a.m. Saturday with calling one hour prior to the service at St Joseph Catholic Church in Fort Wayne. Calling will be from 2 to 5 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m. Friday with vigil service at 4:30 p.m. at D. O. McComb & Sons Covington Knolls Funeral Home in Fort Wayne. Burial will be in Catholic Cemetery. Memorials to St. Joseph Catholic Church in Fort Wayne or Fort Wayne VA Hospital.

August 19, 2004

Ronald Max Biddle, 67
An auctioneer and real estate agent over many years and a well-known Indiana radio broadcaster widely known in auto racing announcing, Ronald Max Biddle, 67, of Rushville, died Saturday, Aug. 7, 2004, at Methodist Hospital in Indianapolis. Born Aug. 27, 1936, in Indianapolis, he was the son of Joseph Max and Mary Berkenstock Biddle. His marriage was on Aug. 23, 1959, to Linda Weicks, who survives. Mr. Biddle was a 1954 graduate of Shelbyville High School. He was a self-employed auctioneer for many years, specializing in antiques. Accompanying also was his real estate career. Radio broadcasting of Indianapolis 500 time trials brought him a still wider notice. He served in the Indiana National Guard from 1954 to 1963. Memberships included the American Legion, Eagles Lodge, Knights of Columbus (associate member) and the Indiana Auctioneers Association, of which he was a past vice president. Surviving in addition to the wife, are his mother, Mary Biddle Western of Columbus; two sons, Mark of Rushville and Kevin of Warren; one daughter, Mrs. Brett (Michele) Orme of Rushville; two brothers, Mike of Connecticut and Bruce of Columbus; two sisters, Mrs. David (Myra) McIntosh of Massachusetts and Diane Biddle of Columbus; seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Services were Aug. 11, 2004, and burial was in East Hill Cemetery, Rushville, with graveside military rites.

Anna E. Geisel, 92
Anna E. Carper Geisel, 92, died at 4:35 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 18, at Swiss Village in Berne. Born in Adams County Dec. 24, 1911 to Philip and Alice Burcaw Carper, she married Oscar geisel Aug. 2, 1933 in Covington, Ky. He survives. She was an active member of the Pleasant Dale Church of the Brethren where she served as deaconess for 42 years and as church organist for 30 years. She received a two-year degree from Sherwood College of Music in Chicago and also attended Chicago Bible Institute. She was a piano and organ teacher in Adams and Wells counties for 40 years and she and her husband volunteered at the Fort Wayne Veterans Hospital for two years. Survivors include two sons, Dr. Robert Geisel and Larry Geisel, both of Gulf Breeze, Fla.; three grandchildren and one great-granddaughter. She was preceded in death by six brothers, Philip, Maurice, Herbert, Robert, Jerry and Sgt. Jess Carper, and a sister, Thelma Johnson. Services at 10:30 a.m. Saturday will be held at the Pleasant Dale Church of the Brethren, west of Craigville, with Arland Reinhard and Pastor Jay Carter officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Calling hours Friday are 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. at Yager-Kirchofer Funeral Home, Berne, and one hour prior to services Saturday at the church. Memorials to the donor’s choice.

October 8, 2004

Freida Quillen Rogers, 84
Freida M. Quillen Rogers, 84, Montpelier, died at 9:25 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 6 at Ball Memorial Hospital in Muncie. Born in Blackford County on July 16, 1920 to Harmon and Bessie O. Havens Rains, she was a 1938 graduate of Montpelier High School and a member of the Pleasantdale United Methodist Church. Ms. Rogers was the owner/operator and cook for several restaurants in Blackford County, including The Point, Hoosier House and Hideway restaurants in Montpelier. She also attended St. Johns Catholic Church in Hartford City. She is survived by a daughter, Mrs. James (Patricia) Trant of Montpelier. She was preceded in death by three husbands, including Delma L. Quillen and C. Joe Rogers; three sisters, Mable Dawson, Marie Futrell and Elsie McDirmit; and two brothers, Leonard Rains and Harry L. Rains. Calling hours are Sunday from 1 to 7 p.m. at Glancy Funeral Homes, Walker Chapel in Montpelier. Services will be held at 10 a.m. Monday at the funeral home, with Pastor Darren Williams officiating and burial in the Twin Hill Cemetery in Pennville. Preferred memorials are to the Pleasantdale U.M. Church or the Montpelier-Harrison Township Cancer Society.

Brayden Schwartz
Brayden James Schwartz was stillborn at 2:25 a.m. this morning, Oct. 8, at Bluffton Regional Medical Center. Survivors include the parents, Elmer and Emille J. Smith Schwartz of rural Bluffton; a brother, Caleb Schwartz at home; and grandparents, Larry & Madge Smith of Berne and Marvin & Irene Schwartz of Geneva. A private family service will be held Saturday with Pastor Larry Sprinkle officiating. Thoma/Rich, Hewitt & Chaney Funeral Home in Bluffton is in charge of arrangements. Memorials may be made to Riley Childrens Hospital.

Thomas L. Hiatt, 79
Graveside services for Thomas L. Hiatt, 79, will be held Saturday, Nov. 20 at 1 p.m. at Fairview Cemetery in Bluffton. Mr. Hiatt died Sept. 23 in Vista, Calif. He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II and was a retired civil engineer. Survivors include his wife of 55 years, Jane (Hamilton) Hiatt; two sisters, June Keisler of Bloomington and Rebecca Powell of Goodhue, Minn.; and a brother, Dr. William Hiatt of Germantown, Wis. American Legion Post 111 will be in charge of the services. Arrangements are being handled by Goodwin Memorial Chapel in Bluffton.

John C. Ash, 81
A former Franklin Electric employee, John C. Ash, 81, Fort Wayne, died Monday, Oct. 4 at Hospice Home in Fort Wayne. A native of Quincy, Mass., he was Product Manager with Franklin for 20 years, retiring in 1986. Survivors include his wife, Sue, Fort Wayne; four sons, Richard and Jonathon, both of Fort Wayne, Bradford of Columbia City and David of Columbus, Ohio; five sisters; one brother; 10 grandchildren and six great grandchildren. A Memorial Mass will be held at 11 a.m. Monday at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church. Arrangements are being handled by D.O. McComb & Sons Covington Knolls Funeral Home. Memorials to the Hospice Home. William Wright The former owner of Wright’s Golf Range (now Bobick’s Golf) in Fort Wayne and well known in Wells County, William W. “Bill” Wright, died Aug. 28 in Venice, Fla. A PGA member since 1943, he owned and operated the popular golf business on Bluffton Rd. from 1950 to 1973. Survivors include his wife, Bessie of Venice, Fla.; two daughters; two sons; stepchildren, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. Burial was in Wauchula, Fla. on Sept. 2.

Lois Dwyer, 87 - Rites Pending
Arrangements are pending at Glancy Funeral Homes, H. Brown & Son Chapel in Warren for Lois R. Dwyer, 87, of Warren, who died at 6:50 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 7 at the United Methodist Memorial Home in Warren.

October 2, 2004

Charley “Junior” Ward, 74
A former resident of Bluffton, Charley “Junior” Ward, 74, died Wednesday, Sept. 27 in Colorado Springs, Colo. Born Oct. 13, 1929 in Decatur to Charley and Ester Stevens Ward, his marriage on Sept. 2, 1988 was to Dorothy Howe in Colorado Springs. She preceded him in death. He was a welder for Perkey Steel and retired in 1994. Survivors include a son, Robert Ward of Colorado Springs; a daughter, Sandra Jones of Monogahela, Pa., a sister, Katie Ward of Decatur and two grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a daughter, Waunita Ward and a sister, Helen Johnson. A memorial service was held Friday at Pikes Peak Park Baptist Church with inurnment at Evergreen Cemetery in Colorado Springs.

October 4, 2004

Woodrow “Woody” Spaid, 91
Woodrow E. “Woody” Spaid, 91, Bluffton, died sudddenly at 8:20 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 2 at his home. Born in Whiting, Iowa on Sept. 25, 1913 to Ora C. and Kittie Spear Spaid, he married Maxine L. Lesh in Dunkirk on Jan. 1, 1941; she survives. A resident of Wells County since 1929, he graduated from East Union Center High School in 1931 and from International Business College in 1934. He was a life-long farmer and drove a school bus for the Bluffton-Harrison schools for 20 years. He has been a member of the First United Methodist Church since 1954 and sang in the church choir for over 35 years. Other survivors include two daughters, Mrs. Jerome (Patricia) Christianson of Bluffton and Mrs. Charles (Suzanne) Murray of Fort Wayne; five grandchildren; four great grandchildren; and four step great granchildren. Services will be held Tuesday at 10:30 a.m. at the Thoma/Rich, Hewitt & Chaney Funeral Home with Rev. Gary Lewis officiating. Calling hours are today from 4 to 8 p.m. and for one hour prior to the service Tuesday. Burial will be in Six Mile Cemetery. Preferred memorials to the church choir.

James Stockman, 60
A native of Wells County, James E. “Jim” Stockman, 60, of rural Huntington, died at 11:45 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 2 at his home. Born August 30, 1944 to Frey D. and Nevah M. Maddux Stockman, he married Michelle McFadden on Sept. 5, 1964 at Plum Tree; she survives. A 1962 graduate of West Rock Creek High School, he attended IPFW and was an active member of the Plum Tree United Church of Christ. He retired from General Electric, Fort Wayne in 2001 after 38 years; he was a member of the GE Quarter Century Club and the GE ELFUN organization. Other survivors include two sons, Michael Stockman and Brian Stockman, both of Fort Wayne; two brothers, Jeff Stockman of Markle and John Stockman of Huntington. He was preceded in death by a sister, Sharon Middleton. Calling hours are Tuesday from 2 to 8 p.m. at Myers Funeral Home, Markle Chapel. A private service is planned, with burial in the Markle Cemetery. Preferred memorials are to the church’s building fund

Phyllis Knotts, 83
Phyllis J. Knotts, 83, Bluffton, died at 10:58 p.m. Friday, Oct. 1 at the home of her son in Bryant. Born in Elwood on June 26, 1921 to Herschel T. and Laura E. Cole Thornton, she married V. Eugene Knotts on Nov. 11, 1941 in Frankton; he died July 29, 1984. A 1939 graduate of Elwood High School, she was a resident of the rural Pennville area for 50 years before moving to Bluffton. She retired from Franklin Electric in 1983 after 25 years of service. She was a member of the Park United Brethren Church in Bluffton. Survivors include a son, Kenneth Knotts of Bryant; a daughter, Mrs. Gene (Diana) Stotlar of Uniondale; five grandchildren; seven great grandchldren; nine step grandchildren; 25 step great grandchildren; and one step great grandchild. She was preceded in death by a sister, Lula Byus; and a brother, Meredith Thornton. Calling hours are today from 2 to 8 p.m. at Glancy Funeral Homes, Walker Chapel in Montpelier, with services there Tuesday at 10:30 a.m. Burial will be in Brookside Memorial Park in Montpelier. Preferred memorials to the Wells County Cancer Society.

Josephine McPheeters Massman, 99
Josephine Massman, 99, a sister of the late Dr. James A. McPheeters of Bluffton, died at 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 2, in Martinez, Ga. Born July 14, 1905 in Paoli to Alexander N. and Edith Montgomery McPheeters, her marriage on Jan. 31, 1929 was to Edward Massman of Seymour, who preceded her in death. She lived in Bluffton during the 1960s and 70s. Survivors include a son, Dr. James E. Massman of Fallbrook, Calif., two grandchildren, three great grandchildren and three great great grandchildren. Burial will be at the Riverview Cemetery in Seymour Wednesday morning. Preferred memorials are to the American Cancer Society.

October 5, 2004

Camellia “Cammy” Collins, 54
A 1968 graduate of Southern Wells High School, Camellia Kay “Cammy” Collins, 54, died at her residence in Pittsfield, Maine, Saturday, Oct. 2. Born March 17, 1950 in Fort Wayne to Z. Paul and Betty Lieurance, she was married to Gerald B. “Jerry” Collins. He survives. A 1972 graduate of Purdue University, she worked for 32 years as a teacher, day care provider, administrator and mentor and was most recently the HomeStart manager for the Kennebec Valley Community Action program in Maine. She was a member of the National Association for the Education of Young Children and developed and implemented several innovative programs. Additional survivors include her mother of Warren; son Paul B. Collins, Chicago, Ill.; daughter Dena K. Collins of Farmington and Pittsfield, Me., and a sister-in-law, Cindy Lieurance, of Bluffton. She was preceded in death by her father in 1971 and brother, Larry Lieurance, in 1990. Calling will be at Crosby & Neal Funeral Home, Newport, Me., from 6-9 p.m. Wednesday with services at 2 p.m. Thursday at the First Baptist Church, Pittsfield. Rev. William Johnston will officiate. A life celebration will be held following services at Mystic Masonic Lodge, Pittsfield. Memorials may be made to HomeStart, Waterville, Me.

October 7, 2004

Mary M. Houtz, 93
A resident of the Warren United Methodist Memorial Home, Mary M. Houtz, 93, died at 2:10 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 29 at the home. Born Sept. 19, 1911 in Wells County to John and Laura Jackson HunNicutt, her marriage in Muncie to John J. Houtz took place Jan. 17, 1934. He preceded her in death Jan. 11, 1997. A member of the Boehmer United Methodist Church, Mrs. Houtz had been a resident of rural Warren for 67 years. She was a member of the Willing Workers Circle, the W.C.S., and a 59-year member of the Rural Friendship Extension Homemakers Club of Huntington County. A homemaker, she had worked at one time or another for Buckeye Grocery, Myers Department Store, Mrs. Bonifeld’s Gift Shop, McCord’s Five & Dime and Coolman’s Drugs. Survivors include three daughters, Mrs. Carlton K. (Joyce) Dahlquist, and Mrs. Harold (Betty) Parker, both of Warren, and Carol Watkins of Columbia City; nine grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren, several step grandchildren, step great-grandchildren, and step great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by brothers Everett, Charles and Carl Hunnicutt; by sisters Nettie Hunnicutt, Rosa Ruble, and Ida Collins and A great-granddaughter. Calling hours will be from 4 to 8 p.m. Friday at the home. Services at 10:30 a.m. Saturday at the home will be under the direction of Pastor Barry Humble with burial to follow at Woodlawn Cemetery, Warren. Memorials may be made to Boehmer United Methodist Church. Glancy Funeral Homes-H. Brown & Son Chapel, Warren, is in charge of arrangements.

Deone Ethel Erb, 85
A resident of the Warren United Methodist Memorial Home, Deone Ethel Erb, 85, died at the home Monday, Sept. 27, at 2:18 p.m. Born in Van Wert, Ohio, March 27, 1919 to Ralph O. and Ethel S. Leiter McGinnis, her marriage in Fort Wayne to Russell Edmund Erb took place Feb. 15, 1941. he survives. A member of the Fort Wayne Women’s Club, she traveled widely around the world with her husband on freighter trips from 1972-1994. She owned Deone E. Erb Realty in Fort Wayne and was a resident of Fort Wayne from 1938-1987 before moving to Sun City, Ariz. She moved to the United Methodist Home in 2000. Survivors include a son, Thomas, of Lawrence, Kansas., and a daughter, Mrs. Mathew (Marlene) Sopina of Huntersville, N.C.; seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. A brother, Doyt McGinnis, preceded her in death. Viewing and services will be private. Memorials may be made to the Greater Wayne St. United Methodist Church in Fort Wayne. Arrangements are in charge of Glancy Funeral Homes-H. Brown & Son Chapel, Warren.

Patricia B. Crago, 73
Mother of Mrs. Jon (Teresa) Jennings of Warren, Patricia B. Crago, 73, died at the Hospice Home of Northeast Indiana in Fort Wayne at 7:25 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 29. Born in Huntington Feb. 9, 1931 to Floyd and Nina Bell Pardue Braden, her marriage March 16, 1952 in Huntington was to Charles William Crago. He survives. A 1949 graduate of Huntington High School, she was an Avon representative for 18 years. She was a member of the Order of the Eastern Star, Floral Chapter #75 and the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post #2689 Women’s Auxiliary. Also surviving are a son, Thomas L. Crago, of Huntington; a second daughter, Mrs. Chris (Jean) Cain of Huntington; three step grandchildren and two step great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a brother, Floyd Braden Jr. Services Saturday at 2 p.m. will be at Myers Funeral Home, Huntington Chapel, under the direction of Bishop Elzie Spencer. Burial will follow at the Pilgrim’s Rest Cemetery in Huntington. Calling at the funeral home will be from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Friday. Memorials may be made to the Huntington Police Athletic League Club.

October 29, 2004

Alice Aschliman, 82
Alice J. Aschliman, 82, rural Bluffton, died at 9:36 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 28 at Lutheran Hospital in Fort Wayne. Born in Wells County on June 27, 1922 to John J. and Lydia Gerber Fiechter, she married Millard Aschliman on Oct. 16, 1949 in Bluffton; he died Sept. 25, 1998. A homemaker, she also worked at the Dutch Mill Restaurant and the Corner Depot. She was a member of the Apostolic Christian Church. Survivors include a son, Derryl Aschliman of Decatur; four daughters, Mrs. Von (Diane) Heyerly, Mrs. David (Loretta) Smith, and Mrs. Keith (Lou Ann) Kaehr, both of Decatur, and Mrs. Mark (Laura) Grime of Fort Wayne; three brothers, Dale Fiechter of Bluffton, John Fiechter of Tocsin, and Gerald Fiechter of Craigville; four sisters, Mrs. Irene Reinhard, Mrs. William (Mildred) Neuenschwander, Mrs. Charles (Doris) Neuenschwander, and Mrs. Walter (Lillian) Bertsch, all of Bluffton; 21 grandchildren; and five great grandchildren. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by one grandchild. Services are scheduled for Monday at 10:30 a.m. at the Apostolic Christian Church East. Calling hours are Saturday from 6 to 8 p.m. and Sunday from noon until 8 p.m. at Goodwin Memorial Chapel, and for one hour prior to the service Monday at the church. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Preferred memorials to the church’s Charity Fund or Meals on Wheels.

Gary L. Drill, 58
Former Norwell High School principal and Northern Wells Community Schools assistant superintendent Gary L. Drill, 58, of 2455 E. Terrace Drive, Bluffton, died unexpectedly at 10:40 p.m. Wednesday at Carmel St. Vincent Hospital in Carmel of complications from cancer. Born in Winchester on April 16, 1946 to Ralph L. and M.Frances Bales Drill, he married Jane A. Bolinger on Aug. 26, 1967 in Winchester; she survives. A 1969 graduate of Taylor University, he received his graduate degrees (M.A.E. and Ed. S.) from Ball State University. Prior to serving at Norwell, he was a teacher and varsity basketball coach at Randolph Southern Schools and at the Winchester Community High School, assistant principal and athletic director at Union City Community Schools, and then principal of the Fremont Community Schools. He has most recently been serving as Assistant Superintendent of the M.S.D. of Steuben County in Angola. He was a member of the Winchester Masonic Lodge, a former member of the American Cancer Society and a past president of the Randolph County Cancer Society. He was a member of numerous professional organizations in the coaching, school administration, life insurance and real estate fields. Other survivors are two sons, Damon Drill of Auburn and Darren Drill of Muncie; a brother, Lowell Drill of Muncie; a sister, Sharon Hurry of Winchester; and one grandson. Services will be held Monday at 10 a.m. at the First United Methodist Church with pastors Gary Lewis and John Reinhard officiating. Calling hours are Sunday from 1 to 8 p.m. at the Thoma/Rich, Hewitt & Chaney Funeral Home, and for one hour prior to the services Monday at the church. Masonic rites will be held Sunday evening at 7:30 p.m. by Bluffton Lodge 145 at the funeral home. Burial will be in Fountain Park Cemetery in Winchester. Preferred memorials are to the American Cancer Society.

Elton Abenath, Sr., 68
Elton W. Abenath, Sr., 68, of Huntington, died at 6:02 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 28 at Lutheran Hospital in Fort Wayne. Born in Crown Point on Oct. 5, 1936 to Theodore E. and Blanche Jones Abenath, he married Betty A. Gavin in Wells County on Jan. 24, 1958; she survives. A U.S. Army veteran, he was a truck driver and construction worker. He was a member of the Warren Church of Christ. Other survivors include two sons, Elton, Jr. of Huntington and Mike Abenath of Winamac; four daughters, Pam Town of Jackson, Mich., Mary Abenath of Neosho, Mo., Elizabeth Richards of Fort Wayne, and Barbara Darbig of Huntington; a brother, Jack Abenath of Liberty Center; three sisters, Beverly Schriever of Clear Lake, Rosalie Myers of Decatur, and Cindea Frantz of Liberty Center; 22 grandchildren; and 17 great grandchildren. Calling hours are Sunday from 3 to 8 p.m. at Goodwin Memorial Chapel in Bluffton. Services will begin at 2 p.m. Monday there, officiated by Gerald Moreland. Burial will be in Elm Grove Cemetery in Bluffton.

October 30, 2004 Gary L. Drill -- Graveside Rites
While the funeral service for former Norwell High School Principal and former Northern Wells Assistant Superintendent Gary L. Drill will be at 10 a.m. Monday at the Bluffton First United Methodist Church, the graveside service and burial will be at 2 p.m. Monday at Fountain Park Cemetery in Winchester.

Maro Day, 94
Wells County native and former resident Maro Day, 94, died at 8:40 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 27 at the Highlands Regional Medical Center in Sebring, Fla. Born in Mt. Zion on March 24, 1910 to Oscar and Maude Huffman Morris, she was a graduate of Liberty Center High School and attended Western College for Women in Oxford, Ohio. She was preceded in death by her husband, Frank Day, on May 22, 1997. After graduation from Indiana University and the Job Herron Art School in Indianapolis, she taught school in Wells County, Mishawaka, and Cincinnati, Ohio. She was a member of the first Wells County Library Board. She and her husband owned a publishing company in Cincinnati that produced school books, which she illustrated. After retirement, they spent their summers in Warren and winters in Sebring, Fla, where she was a member of the Spring Lake United Methodist Church. Survivors include a step son, Marvin Day, of Bluffton. Services will be held Wednesday at 2 p.m. at the Glancy Funeral Home, H. Brown & Son Chapel in Warren, with calling two hours prior to the service. Burial will be in Mossburg Cemetery, Liberty Center.

Mildred Pence, 100
Mildred Pence, 100, Ossian, died at 10:50 a.m. Friday, Oct. 29 at the Ossian Health & Rehabilitation Center. Born Aug. 13, 1904 in Domestic to Fred and Bertha Coffman Anson, she married Fred B. Pence on Sept. 1, 1921 in Centerville, Mich.; he died Jan. 20, 1991. A homemaker, she formerly lived in Markle, Big Lake and Huntington. She was a member of the Markle United Methodist Church, served on the Huntington City School Board from 1957-1964 and also served the Huntington Public Library for four years as secretary and trustee. Survivors include a son, Charles Pence of Huntington; four grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; and six great-great-grandchildren. She was also preceded in death by a daughter, Mary Hunnicutt. Services were held today at 2 p.m; interment was in Union Cemetery in Huntington County. Preferred memorials are to the Cancer Services of Huntington County. Arrangements were handled by Myers Funeral Home, Huntington Chapel.

Larry J. Michael, 68
Larry J. Michael, 68, Warren, died at 2:20 a.m. Sunday, Oct. 31 at the United Methodist Memorial Home in Warren. Born in Wells County on Feb. 9,1936 to Joyce O. and Georgiana A. Renbarger Michael, he lived in the Warren area most of his life and had been a resident at the United Methodist Memorial Home the past ten years. He was a member of the United Methodist Church in Warren. Survivors include two sisters, Mrs. Jerry (Joan ) Boyer of Warren and Mrs. Jay (Marilyn) Hacker of Indianapolis. Services will be held Wednesday at 2 p.m. at the United Methodist Memorial Home, with Rev. John Bellante officiating. Calling hours are two hours prior to the service. Burial will be in the Masonic Cemetery in Warren. Glancy Funeral Homes, H. Brown & Son Chapel in Warren is in charge of arrangements. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the United Methodist Home.

Jean Pitzer, 89
Services for Jean Bernice Pitzer, 89, Marion, will be held Wednesday at 10 a.m. at Glancy Funeral Homes, H. Brown & Son Chapel in Warren. She died at 4:25 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 30 at Rolling Meadows Nursing Home in LaFontaine. Born in Saskatchewan, Canada on Dec. 20, 1914 to Carl K. and Imogene Pilcher Sale, she married Thomas H. Pitzer on May 27, 1939 in Markle; he died June 15, 1992. A graduate of Warren High School, Mrs. Pitzer was a member of the Church of Christ in Warren and later in Marion. She lived in San Diego, Calif., for several years before returning to this area. Survivors include a daughter, Gloria D. Heinemann of Buffalo, N.Y.; two sons, Jerry L. Pitzer and Terry L. Pitzer, both of Marion; four grandchildren; and six great grandchildren. She was also preceded in death by a brother and four sisters. Calling hours are Tuesday from 5 to 8 p.m. Burial will be in Mt. Hope Cemetery in Huntington. Preferred memorials to the Alzheimer’s Association.

Bruce I. Maxwell, 71
A life-long farmer in Union Township of Huntington County, Bruce I. Maxwell, 71, of Huntington, died at 8:55 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 31 at the Hospice Home of Northeast Indiana. Born March 20, 1933 to Rolland and Catherine Rife Maxwell, he was a 1953 graduate of Huntington High School and was a veteran of the Korean War, serving with the U.S. Air Force. Survivors include two sons, Steve A. Maxwell of Fort Wayne and John W. Maxwell of Roanoke, Va.; a brother, Hugh Maxwell of Cresswell, N.C., and two grandchildren. Calling will be held Tuesday at Myers Funeral Home, Markle Chapel, from 6 to 8 p.m. Interment will be at the Star of Hope Cemetery in Huntington County after a private service. Preferred memorials are to Visiting Nurse and Hospice Home.

November 2, 2004

Edith “Iva” Deming, 88
Edith “Iva” Deming, 88, of 822 South Wayne St., died at 5 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 31, at a daughter’s home in Fort Wayne. She had been ill for the past 21Ž2 years and death was attributed to cancer. Born Jan. 23, 1916 in Minneapolis, Minn., to Nils Edwin and Esther Elvira Constance Fridman Hanson, she married Gerald E. deming in Hudson, Wis., Nov. 28, 1935. He preceded her in death April 17, 1977. A resident of Wells County for 54 years, she was a homemaker and a member of the First Church of Christ where she was a member of the For Others Mission Circle and the Seekers Sunday School Class. She provided child daycare in her home for many years and was a member of the Scandia Club of Fort Wayne for over 40 years and of the Poplar Grove Economics Club for more than 50 years. She is survived by a son, John E. Deming, of Fort Wayne; three daughters, Mrs. Bill (Joye Denise) Gardenour of Bluffton, Mrs. Donald (Judith Ann) Higgins of Fort Wayne, and Mrs. Larry (Jerilyn Kay) Sheets of Lima, Ohio; two sisters, Inez Sharpe of Bemidji, Minn., and Lois Hein of Roswell, N.M.; 11 grandchildren and 19 great grandchildren. A son, James E. Deming, preceded her in death Feb. 9, 2002. Services at 11 a.m. Thursday will be at Thoma/Rich, Hewitt & Chaney Funeral Home under the direction of Revs. Chris Higgins and Rick Sheets and Pastor Larry Sprinkle. Burial will follow at Six Mile Cemetery. Calling hours at the funeral home will be from 2 to 8 p.m. Wednesday and one hour prior to services Thursday. memorials may be made to the Parkview Hospice of Fort Wayne, the Gideons or the First Church of Christ.

Olive Lucille Hoag, 86
Former Uniondale resident Olive Lucille Hoag, 86, died at 6 a.m. Monday, Nov. 1, at Markle Health Care in Markle. Born in Uniondale Aug. 9, 1918 to Homer and Nellie McAfee Harshman, she married Noble L. Hoag April 4, 1947, in Uniondale. He preceded her in death Oct. 12, 1973. A 1935 graduate of Rockcreek High School, she was retired from the Norfolk Western Railroad where she worked as a clerk. She was a member of St. Mark’s Lutheran Church in Uniondale. Survivors include four sons, Doug of Markle, Jim of Tocsin, Larry of Bristol, and Guy of Antwerp, Ohio; three daughters, Mrs. Jim (Mae) Cobb of Bluffton, and Mrs. Terry (Diane) Bunch and Mrs. Jeff (Marilyn) Langley, both of Leesburg; a brother, Tom Harshman of Colorado; a sister, Madeline Brindle, Bluffton; 17 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a daughter, Janet Hoag. Services at 10:30 a.m. Thursday will be at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church in Uniondale under the direction of Pastors Gene Kinney and Bill Peterson. Burial will follow at St. Paul’s Cemetery. Calling at Goodwin Memorial Chapel will be from 2 to 8 p.m. Wednesday. Memorials may be made to St. Mark’s Lutheran Church.

Dean E. Crum, 72
A native of Uniondale, Dean E. Crum, 72, of Fort Wayne, died Sunday, Oct. 31 at Hospice Home of Fort Wayne. He was employed by General Electric Company for 37 years, retiring in 1988. He was also a GE Elfin. He served with the U.S. Army and was a veteran of the Korean War and was a past board member of the Highland Elks Club of Cherokee Village, Ariz. Survivors include his wife, Joan; a daughter, Mrs. Joe (Linda K.) Mason; and a son, Fred D. Crum, all of Fort Wayne; a brother, John Crum of Warsaw; a sister, Alice Alexander of Bluffton and five grandchildren. A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Friday at D.O. McComb & Sons Covington Knolls Funeral Home, 8325 Covington Rd. Calling will be from 12 noon to 2 p.m. Friday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to the Alzheimer’s Association.

Marilyn L. Prichard, 71
A former employee of the Craigville Post Office, Marilyn L. Prichard, 71, of Craigville died at 2 p.m. Monday, Nov. 1 at the home of a daughter. Born Aug. 8, 1926 in Craigville to Ervin and Sylvia Kaehr Gerber, her marriage on Dec. 23, 1951, in Bluffton was to Willis U. Prichard, who survives. Mrs. Prichard was the valedictorian of the Lancaster Central Class of 1951 and a member of the ODO Women’s Club. She attended Peace Lutheran Church in Berne. During their 53 years of marriage, she and her husband worked together in the family business, Gerber Locker in Craigville. She was also employed by the U.S. Postal Service for 20 years. In addition to the husband, she is survived by 10 children, including two sons, Jeffrey U. Prichard and Michael A. Prichard, both of Craigville; eight daughters, Mrs. David (Larilyn) Cole of Roanoke; Kathy Prichard of Craigville; Mrs. William (Sally) Endorf of Berne; Janna Johnson of Bluffton; Mrs. Mark (Lisa) Wolfe of Lafayette; Mrs. Michael (Julie) Moser of Indianapolis; Mrs. Todd (Kristi) Hollman of Huntington and Mrs. Kevin (Tracy) Pflum of Indianapolis. Also surviving are four brothers, Luther Gerber of Craigville, Herbert Gerber and Russell “Butch” Gerber of Bluffton and Glen D. Gerber of Indianapolis; a sister, Mrs. Charles (Maxine) Fiechter of Bluffton, 14 grandchildren and two great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a brother, Galen D. Gerber. Services will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday at Goodwin Memorial Chapel with Rev. Paul Stohlman officiating and burial in Apostolic Christian Cemetery. Calling at the funeral home will be Wednesday from 2 to 8 p.m. and Thursday from 12 noon until time of services.

Dorothy M. Rose, 81
A former teacher in Wells County, Dorothy M. Rose, 81, died Monday, Nov. 1 in Montgomery Texas. Born May 13, 1923 in Bluffton to Raymond G. and Lulu Grace “Billie” DeWeese Knoff, she was married on April 25, 1943 to Max O. Rose, who preceded her in death on Feb. 28, 1988 in Montgomery. Mrs. Rose earned undergraduate degrees in music and English and her master’s degree in education at Ball State University. Early in her teaching career she taught music at Petroleum and Poling High Schools then began teaching English at Lancaster Central High School. She came to Bluffton High School in 1963 and eventually became head of the BHS English Department. She also was in charge of school journalism publications, including the school newspaper and yearbook. She was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Bluffton and later joined the Lakeside Bible Church in Montgomery. She directed the church choir here, sang solos for various churches and other organizations and also taught private music lessons in voice and various instruments. She retired from teaching in 1979. She was a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution and an accomplished bridge player, attaining the level of “Grandmaster.” Surviving are a son, David A. Rose of Houston, Tex., a daughter, Mrs. Jack (Margaret) Bond of Bowie, Md., three grandchildren and three great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by sisters Naomi Lewis Butcher and Ruthanna Pearson. Memorials services were held today at Lakeside Bible Church in Montgomery. Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday at the First United Methodist Church in Bluffton with Bruce Holland officiating. Calling will be Friday from 5 to 8 p.m. at Thoma/Rich, Hewitt & Chaney Funeral Home and for one hour prior to services at the church on Saturday. Internment will follow at Elm Grove Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to Lakeside Bible Church, 18940 Freeport Dr., Montgomery, Tex. 77356.

October 27, 2004

Ruby L. Lockwood, 92
A clerk for 22 years at the Progress Store in Bluffton before retiring in 1978, Ruby L. Lockwood, 92, of 625 Riverview Dr., Bluffton, died at 10 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 26, 2004, at River Terrace Estates. She had been in failing health for the past year. Born April 6, 1912, in Wells County to William and Anna Howard Gavin, she was graduated from Liberty Center High School in 1930. Her marriage was on Dec. 24, 1936, in Bluffton to Lawrence Lockwood,who died on Jan. 15, 1996. A lifetime resident of Wells County, she was a member of the First Baptist Church and Crescent Chapter Eastern Star in Bluffton. Surviving are one son, Jerry Lee Lockwood of Ossian, six grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a son, Terry Lockwood, who died in 1990, and three sisters, Ruth Gavin,Victo Gavin and Mary Smith. Calling hours will be 3 to 8 p.m. Thursday at Thoma-Rich, Hewitt & Chaney Funeral Home, where services will be at 10 a.m. Friday with Pastor Bud Abrams officiating. Burial will be in Fairview Cemetery. Preferred memorials to First Baptist Church.

Wayne W. Dwyer, 89
A Warren resident since 1991, Wayne W. Dwyer, 89, died Sunday, Oct. 24, 2004, at his home. Born Jan. 30, 1915, in Delaware County he was the last surviving of five children of Patrick A. and Cora E. Cummings Dwyer. His wife, Lois R. Dwyer, whom he married on March 29, 1941, died earlier this month. He was a graduate of Yorktown High School and was employed by Standard Oil, the Indiana Railroad and Southern Life Insurance Co. before establishing the Dwyer Insurance Agency. He was a member of the Yorktown United Methodist Church. Surviving are two sons, Dr. James A. Dwyer of Hamburg, Germany, and Dr. Rex A. Dwyer of Raleigh, N.C., and five grandchildren. Burial was with a brief graveside service at 1 p.m. today in Spring Hill Cemetery at the United Methodist Memorial Home in Warren with Rev. Herbert Edwards officiating. A memorial service is to be at a later date. Memorials to the Yorktown United Methodist Church or the Warren United Methodist Memorial Home. Glancy Funeral Homes-H. Brown & Son Funeral Home is handling arrangements.

Edna Ruth Harris Heckert, 59
Mother of Joyce Gerber and Angela Harris, both of Bluffton, Edna Ruth Harris Heckert, 59, of Amity, Arkansas, died Friday, Oct. 22, 2004, following an extended illness. She was born May 12, 1945, at Rosboro, Arkansas, a daughter of Charles and Maggie Craig Spears. She was a Bluffton resident for 20 years before moving back to the Arkansas location in 1994. Surviving in addition to the Bluffton daughters are her companion, Don Anderson of Amity, Arkansas; two sons, Roger Keith Moore of Amity and Brian Christopher Harris of Decatur; four brothers, Marlin Joe, Charles, Ricky and Bobby Spears, all of Arkansas; four sisters, Virginia Quinones, Judy Miller, Shirley Davis and Elaine Wilder, all of Arkansas, and seven grandchildren. The funeral service was Sunday, Oct. 24, in Arkansas, with burial at Coker Cemetery, Rosboro, Arkansas.

October 28, 2004

Roscoe J. Lydy, 91
A resident of 307 East Townley St. in Bluffton, Roscoe J. Lydy, 91, died at Lutheran Hospital in Fort Wayne Tuesday, Oct. 26. Born Jan. 18, 1913 in Wells County he was married to Anna C. Meyer Lydy, who preceded him in death July 13, 1995. He was a mechanic with International Harvester in Fort Wayne for 30 years, retiring in 1973. A member of the First United Methodist Church in Bluffton, he also was a member of the Square Dance Club for 20 years. Survivors include two daughters, Mrs. John (Kay) Ormiston of Bluffton, and Mrs. Dan (Georgia) Schmidt of Fort Wayne; two sisters Maxine Roussey, Fort Wayne, and Mary Lou Schinner, Toledo, Ohio; three grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Services at 12:30 p.m. Friday will be at Elzey-Patterson-Rodak Funeral Home in Ossian. Calling is from 2-9 p.m. today at the funeral home and one hour prior to services Friday. Burial will be at Oak Lawn Cemetery in Ossian.

Carolyn J. Ziegler, 70
A native of Bluffton and a 1952 graduate of Bluffton High School, Carolyn J. Ziegler, 70, of Huntington, died at Parkview Memorial Hospital in Fort Wayne Tuesday, Oct. 26. Born in Bluffton March 27, 1934 to Ivan and Lois Chalfant Hammond, she married Bob Ferguson in Bluffton. He preceded her in death in August of 1972. Her second marriage was to Therl Dwayne Ziegler in Andrews March 18, 1978. He survives. She was a homemaker and worked at the former Schacht Rubber Co. from 1968 to 1978. Other survivors include three sons, Ron ferguson of Fort Wayne; Bill Ferguson of Ft. Myers, Fla., and Dave Ferguson of Huntington; two sisters, Mrs. Lyle (Mary) Cloud of Bartow, Fla., and Mrs. Denver (Janet) Amburgey of Bluffton; three grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. Services at 10 a.m. Saturday will be at bailey-Love Mortuary, Huntington, with Rev. Victor Kolch officiating. Burial will follow at Six Mile Cemetery in Bluffton. Calling hours are 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Friday at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to the Renal Care Group.

Gary L. Drill, 58 — Rites Pending
Former Norwell High School Principal Gary L. Drill, 58, of Bluffton, died at Carmel St. Vincent Hospital in Carmel Wednesday evening, Oct. 27. Arrangements are pending at Thoma-Rich, Hewitt & Chaney Funeral Home.

Elton Abenath, 68 — Rites Pending
A former resident of Bluffton, Elton Abenath, 68, died this morning at the Hospice Home of Indiana. Arrangements are pending at Goodwin Memorial Chapel.

Louis Pearl Welch Davis, 81
Louis Pearl Welch Davis, 81, Winchester, died at Ball Memorial Hospital in Muncie Tuesday, Oct. 26, at 3:55 p.m. Mrs. Davis was married to Myron Davis for 58 years. He has many relatives living in this area. Services will be at 11 a.m. Saturday at Walker Funeral Home, Winchester, with calling at the funeral home 4-8 p.m. Friday. Burial will be at New Liberty Cemetery, Lynn.

Lana May Rolston, 60
Lana May Rolston, 60, of 1516 Sutton Circle, died at Bluffton Regional Medical Center at 9:52 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 27. Born Nov. 19, 1943 in Peru to Raymond and Audrey Armstrong Flitcraft, she married Paul Rolston Oct. 8, 1971 in Bluffton. He preceded her in death Sept. 12, 2002. She retired from Bluffton Regional Medical Center in November of 2002 following a career in telecommunications. She was a 1962 Jackson Center High School graduate. Survivors include five sons, Rick and Troy Rolston of Decatur, Dallas Martin of Richmond, Darren Martin of Portland, and Doug Martin of Iowa; daughter Taya Amstutz, Indianapolis; three brothers, Bill Flitcraft of Elkhart, and darrel Scelzo and Terry McCardy of Indiana; two sisters, Carol Smith of Kokomo and Betty White of Florida; and 10 grandchildren. Services at 10 a.m. Saturday will be held at Goodwin Memorial Chapel. Pastor Scott Meier will officiate and burial will follow at the Decatur Cemetery. Calling hours will be 2-8 p.m. Friday at the funeral home. Memorials are to the donor’s choice.

Ruby Mae Copeland, 78
A resident of 417 West Miller St., Ruby Mae Copeland, 78, died at her residence at 3:55 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 27. She had been in failing health over the past year and death was attributed to cancer. Born in Jellico Creek, Ky. Oct. 24, 1926 to to Walter A. and Rosie M. Melbina West, she married Vernon “Yogi” Copeland in Harlan, Ky., Dec. 21, 1946. He survives. She was a resident of Wells County since June 23, 1957. Prior to that, she lived in St. Charles, W. Va. She worked for several years at the Bliss Hotel Cafe when it was owned by Robert Bowman and was employed by Peanut and Mary Jane Harnish for 71Ž2 years. She also worked at Mettler’s Fish Stand at the Street Fair for 35 years. Survivors include one son, Vernon Copeland Jr., Poneto; four brothers, Harold and Donald West, both of Bluffton, Charles West of Fort Wayne and Claude West of Decatur; four sisters, Stella Masterson and Mildred Ginter of Bluffton, and Pauline Rothgeb, and Bernice Wine, both of Fort Wayne; four grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. One brother preceded her in death, Raymond West, in 1969. Services at noon Saturday will be at Thoma-Rich, Hewitt & Chaney Funeral Home with Pastor Rick Fiechter officiating. Burial will follow at Fairview Cemetery. Calling will be 3-8 p.m. Friday at the funeral home and one hour prior to services Saturday. Memorials may be made to family Hospice of Northeast Indiana.

Henry Wayne Flowers, 79
A City of Bluffton employee for 43 years, Henry Wayne Flowers, 79, of 426 West Horton St., died at 8:40 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 27 at Lutheran Hospital. Mr. Flowers was a diesel operator at the city power plant, retiring in 1987 after 43 years of service. He was a past president of the Six Mile Cemetery Association, serving in that post for over 10 years. Born Feb. 19, 1925 in Wells County to Theodore R. and Pansy Moyer Flowers, his marriage on March 19, 1946 in Hartford City was to Martha M. Raber, who survives. Also surviving are a daughter, Mrs. Thomas (Linda) Claussen of Del Tona, Fla.; two sisters, Mrs. Helen Ray of Decatur and Mrs. Hilbert “Skip” (Mary) Ross of Bluffton; three brothers, Roger Flowers and James Flowers of Bluffton and Donald Flowers of Berne; three grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by three sisters and two brothers. Services will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday at Goodwin Memorial Chapel with Larry Sprinkle officiating and burial to follow in Six Mile Cemetery. Calling at the funeral home will be Friday from 2 to 8 p.m. Preferred memorials are to Lutheran Hospital Critical Care Unit or Parkview Hospital Oncology Department.

George O. Halterman, 78
A resident of rural Poneto, George O. Halterman, 78, died at Parkview memorial Hospital at 11:50 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 27. Born June 25, 1926 in Bement, Ill., to Joseph and Frances Schumard Halterman, he married the former Joyce L. Wildman in bement April 17, 1948. She survives. An employee of the Wabash Railroad in Bement for 14 years, he moved to Wells County in 1957 and was a dairy farmer until 1975. He worked for G&H Fertilizer in Bluffton, Kaiser Fertilizer in Bluffton and Helena Chemical Co. in Vera Cruz. He was employed by the Wells County Highway Department from 1976 to 1978. He served with the U.S. Army from 1945 to 1947. Survivors include a son, Robert L. Halterman, Poneto; a sister, Ann Lust of Bement, and three grandchildren. he was preceded in death by a son, terry Halterman, in 1968, and a sister, Bessie Vinson. Services at 9:30 a.m. Saturday at Thoma-Rich, Hewitt & Chaney Funeral Home will be under the direction of Rev. Gene Betts. Burial will be at Elm Grove Cemetery. Calling will be at the funeral home from 3 to 8 p.m. Friday. Memorials may be made to the Wells County Animal Shelter.