Memorials

Gloria A. Ruckman, 77, of Churubusco, Ind. passed away on December 30, 2010 at 6:00 p.m. at The Oaks, Columbia City.  
Born on October 29, 1933 in Huntington County, IN, she was the daughter of Ernest and Helen (Allen) Routt.
She has been a resident of Whitley County, IN since1951.  She attended Arcola High School.  On December 25, 1951, she married Duane E. Ruckman.  While Mrs. Ruckman worked for 9 years at Dana Churubusco, she spent most of her working years raising her 4 children and 10 grandchildren.  
She was an active member of the Jehovah’s Witnesses Congregation of Columbia City.
Survivors include her husband, Duane E. Ruckman of Churubusco, IN; 4 children, Penny L. (Marvin) Olson of Elkhart, IN, David D. (Teresa Brown) Ruckman of Churubusco, IN, Bryan R. (Gwynne) Ruckman and Rachel A. Mix both of Columbia City; former daughter-in-law, Teri Ruckman; 10 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren.  She was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Everett "Bud" Routt; and 3 sisters, Helen Vaughn, Ernestine Keller, and Margaret Routt.
Visitation with the family is from 1-3 p.m. Saturday, January 8, 2011 at DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home, 600 Countryside Drive, Columbia City, IN.  Funeral service will follow the visitation hours at 3:00 p.m. with Marvin Olson officiating.  Burial will be private.   

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Marcia Ann Gordon, 62, of Columbia City, IN passed away at 2:10 a.m. Thursday, December 30, 2010 at Parkview Hospital, Fort Wayne.  
Born August 7, 1948 in Fort Wayne, she was the daughter of Franklin M. and Dorothy J. (Buckles) Walker.
A lifetime resident of Columbia City, she graduated from Columbia City High School with the Class of 1966.  On November 9, 1968 she married Phil David Gordon at Grace Lutheran Church Parsonage with Pastor Graham L. Kleespie officiating.  She worked at Blue Bell, Precision Plastics, Alcoils, Schultz's Dime Store, and at H&R Block as a tax preparer.  She was a member of Freewill Baptist Church, Columbia City, and was an avid quilter.
Survivors include her husband, Phil David Gordon of Columbia City; 2 daughters, Michelle J. (Todd E.) Clark of Columbia City and Melissa A. (Jonathan J.) Rose of South Bend; 6 grandchildren, Megan Clark, Madison Clark, Jeremiah Rose, Tanner Clark, Noah Rose and Isaiah Rose.  
Her parents preceded her in death.
Visitation is Sunday, January 2, 2011 from 1-3 p.m. at DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home, 600 Countryside Drive, Columbia City.  Funeral service will immediately follow calling at 3:00 p.m. Sunday, January 2, 2011 at the funeral home with Jonathan Rose officiating.  Burial will follow at Nolt Cemetery, Columbia City.  Memorial gifts may be given in Mrs. Gordon's memory to the American Diabetes Association.  Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.

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Harold A. Krider, 63, of Whitley County, died at 4:05 p.m. Thursday, December 30, 2010 at his home. He had been in failing health.
He was born March 7, 1947 in Wolf Lake, Indiana a son of George W. and Mildred M. (Hill) Krider. His formative years were spent in Thorncreek Township. He graduated from Columbia City Joint High School in 1965.
On May 21, 1966 he was united in marriage to Jo Ellen Vogely. They made their home in Columbia City and later on a farm in Columbia Township before moving to Washington Township, residing at their present home since July 2007.
He was employed at Dana Corporation in Fort Wayne for over 36 years, retiring in 2002. He had been working part time at More Farm Store for the past few years.
His memberships included Grace Lutheran Church, Due Guard Lodge #278 Free & Accepted Masons, Scottish Rite, Mizpah Shrine, Whitley County Shrine Club, Mizpah Antique Power Club and R.O.J. Court Order #27.
Surviving relatives include his wife, Jo; three children, Hilary L. (Bryan) Nicodemus of South Whitley, Ryan A. Krider of South Whitley and Marta J. (Mike) Pearce of Fort Leavenworth, Kansas; ten grandchildren, Colin & Alyson Nicodemus, Jordan, Whitley, Sydney & Devin Krider, and Caitlyn, Colton, Tucker & Ty Pearce; two brothers and a sister, Robert Krider, Richard Krider and Joan Simon, all of Columbia City.
He was preceded in death by four brothers, Ronald, Raymond, Charles Milton and Lawrence; and a sister, Virginia Snodgrass.
The funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at Grace Lutheran Church, 204 North Main Street, Columbia City with visitation after 9:30 a.m. The burial will be in Eberhard Cemetery. The visitation will also be from 3 to 8 p.m. Tuesday at Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City.
A Masonic Service will be held at 8 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home.
Preferred memorials may be made to Whitley County 4-H Inc. or Shriners Hospitals for Children.
Condolences may be sent to www.smithandsonsfuneralhome.com.

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Juanita Glenn Walker, 88, of Columbia City, IN passed away at 4:15 a.m. on Tuesday, December 28 at her home in Columbia City.  
Born August 17, 1922 in Markle, Wells County, IN, she was the daughter of Harry L. and Alma E.  (Vollmar) Welches.
Raised in Wells County on the family farm in the country that she cherished, she graduated from East Rock Creek High School with the Class of 1940. On January 14, 1942, she married Robert Lyle Walker in Fort Wayne.  After their marriage, she and her husband lived in Fort Wayne.  In 1952, she and her husband bought and lived on a farm near Tri-Lakes until 1992 when they sold the farm and moved to Columbia City.  A housewife and mother, she formerly worked at West Suites, Huntington, General Electric and Studebaker, Fort Wayne.  
She was a member of Tri-Lakes Garden Club for 50 years and the Crooked Lake Ladies Golf League.  In her spare time, she enjoyed gardening flowers & vegetables as a pastime and hobby. She also enjoyed playing the piano and guitar, traveling extensively, reading and writing poetry.
Survivors include her husband, Robert Lyle Walker of Columbia City; 4 daughters, Lynne (Bob) Petty of Silver Springs, MD, Billie (Steven) Kaston of Alpine Meadows, CA, Louise Walker of Columbia City and Jean Bird of Columbia City; 2 sisters, Arlene (Buzz) Brown of Greenwood, AR and Marcella Cunningham of Demming, NM; 7 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren.  
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a sister, Wava Jochich, and brothers, Vernon Garth and Kenneth Welches.
Visitation and service will be at a later date. Memorials may be given in memory of Mrs. Walker to the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation, 811 W Evergreen Avenue, Suite 303, Chicago, IL  60642.  Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.  Services have been entrusted to DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home, Columbia City.  Please visit www.demoneygrimes.com to send family condolences or sign the guest register book.

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Lee Junior Nichols, 82, of Larwill, died Wednesday morning, December 29, 2010 at his home of natural causes.
He was born September 7, 1928 in Pierceton, Indiana a son of O. Lee and Beatrice B. (Pollock) Nichols. His formative years were spent in Pierceton. He graduated from Pierceton High School.
On August 8, 1948 he was united in marriage to Marjorie J. Noble. They made their first home in Pierceton, moving to Fort Wayne in 1950 and Steuben County in 1952. In 1953 they moved to Larwill, residing in the present home since 1957.
He was employed with Coca Cola from 1947 until 1950 and Perfection Biscuit Company from 1950 until 1953. In 1953 he began the operation of Larwill Service Station, adding the Larwill Deli in 1991 until retirement in 1997.
He attended Pierceton United Methodist Church and was raised in the Pierceton Baptist Church. He was a member of Due Guard Lodge #278 Free & Accepted Masons, Scottish Rite, Mizpah Shrine, Whitley County Shrine Horse Patrol (serving as Captain in 1979 and 1980), Order of the Eastern Star in Pierceton and served on the Richland Township Fire Department for 55 years, many years as Chief.
Surviving relatives include his wife, Marjorie; three children, Lynette S. Kerschner of Fort Wayne, David Lee (Trang) Nichols of Alpena MI and Melanie K. (Kerry) Hutchings of Phoenix AZ; two grandchildren, Rachel S. Black and Jamison Lee Nichols; two great grandchildren; and a sister, Betty Rose Stahl of Pierceton.
He was preceded in death by a brother, Gordon Nichols.
The funeral service will be held at 1:30 p.m. Tuesday at Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City. The burial will be in Hillcrest Cemetery, Pierceton. The visitation will be from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Monday at the funeral home.
A Masonic Service will be conducted at 8 p.m. Monday followed by an Indiana Volunteer Firefighter Service.
Preferred memorials are to Shriners Hospitals for Children.

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Richard C. "Dick" Kiewatt, 83, of South Whitley, died at 4:15 a.m. Wednesday, December 29, 2010 at Peabody Home, North Manchester where he had been a resident since July 1, 2009.
He was born November 26, 1927 in West Allis, Wisconsin a son of Walter Eugene and Hertha (Kranz) Kiewatt. His formative years were spent in West Allis and he graduated from West Allis High School.
On July 4, 1945 he entered the United States Navy, serving in the Asiatic Pacific during World War II. He was honorably discharged August 17, 1946.
A truck driver, he drove for C.W. Transport for 23 years until 1986, Guardian Transportation for seven years until 1993 and retired from Bohrn Trucking in 2000.
On May 17, 1975 he was united in marriage to Betty J. (Snyder) King. They have made their home in South Whitley since 1978.
His memberships included D.A.V. and American Legion Post #98.
Surviving relatives include his wife, Betty; a step daughter, Karen (Craig) Jordan of South Whitley; a step son, Richard (Ann) King of England; and a brother, Robert Kiewatt of Black Duck MN.
He was preceded in death by a step son, Daniel Morgan; twin sister, Audrey Anderson; and a brother, Walter Eugene "Gene" Kiewatt Jr.
The graveside service will be held at 12 Noon Monday at South Whitley Cemetery. The visitation will be from 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday at Smith & Sons Miller Chapel, South Whitley.
Preferred memorial are to Humane Society of Whitley County.

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Dorothy A. Gregory, 95, formerly of South Whitley, died at 9:20 p.m. Tuesday, December 28, 2010 at Kosciusko Community Hospital, Warsaw.
She was born August 10, 1915 near North Manchester in Wabash County, Indiana a daughter of Silas and Edith (Lahmer) Kennedy. She attended school in Wabash, Noble and Whitley Counties, graduating from South Whitley High School in 1933.
On September 22, 1934 she was united in marriage to Preston A. Gregory. They made their home in Columbia City for a year before moving east of North Manchester, later purchasing a farm south of South Whitley in 1945. Following their retirement from farming in 1965, they built a home on Big Barbee Lake where they spent their summers until 1989. In 1974 they began wintering in Bradenton, Florida. Mr. Gregory died July 27, 1985.
She was a member of Home Extension Club since 1947, serving in Whitley and Kosciusko Counties and local offices with her last membership with Happy Hoosier Club in South Whitley. In 1947 she became a lifetime Deaconness with the Church of the Brethren denomination.
Surviving relatives include a son, Danny D. (Roberta) Gregory of Warsaw; a daughter, Judith Vickers of Fort Wayne; four grandchildren, Danielle Mosley, Geremie Pierson, Dustyn Pierson and Jason Pierson; five great grandchildren; and two sisters, Thelma Upham of Portland OR and Pauline Miller of North Manchester.
In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by a grandson, Darren Gregory; and four brothers, Joe Wilson Kennedy, Harold Jack Kennedy, John Robert Kennedy and Silas Jr. Kennedy; and a sister, Mildred Atwell.
The funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. Monday at Smith & Sons Miller Chapel, South Whitley. The burial will be in South Whitley Cemetery. The visitation will be from 3 to 6 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home.

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Charles I. Bender, 83 a resident of Columbia City, died at 12 pm noon Tuesday, December 28, 2010 in the Parkview Whitley Hospital.
He was born on June 28, 1927 in Blue Island, Illinois, a son of Lewis Henry and Edna Bell Hayes Bender. His formative years were spent in Blue Island and after completing his education in the local high school, he enlisted in 1945 in the U.S. Merchant Marines, serving during World War II.
Following his discharge from the Merchant Marines, he started his employment with the United Telephone Company as a lineman, later a test board frameman and retired in December 1986 from the Warsaw warehouse and supply department.
On May 31, 1958, he was united in marriage to Wilma M. Day in the Grace Lutheran Church by the Rev. G. L. Kleespie. The have spent their married life in Whitley County.
He was a member of the Larwill Due Guard Masonic Lodge #278, a Past Master of the lodge and of the Pierceton American Legion Post.
The surviving relatives include his wife, Wilma; five children, Daryl A. Bender, Fort Wayne, Charla B. (Patrick) Higgins, Fort Wayne, Julia A. (Rick) Quiring, Decatur, Texas, Kathryn R. (Brian) Paseka, Columbia City and Charles L. (Anita) Bender, Larwill; nine grandchildren; nine great grandchildren and a sister Barbara A. Juillerat, Elk River, MN.
He was preceded in death by his parents, brother, Lewis; grand daughter, Brandi A. Bender; four great grandchildren Nicholas Adkins, Peyton Bender, Justice Bender Wheaton and Traeman Bender.
In keeping with the wishes of Mr. Bender there will be no service or visitation.
For those who wish, memorials may be made to the Parkview Home Health and Hospice.

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Lois Jeanette Johnson, 84, of Fort Wayne and formerly of Columbia City passed away at 2:45 p.m. Wednesday, December 22, 2010 at Canterbury Health and Rehabilitation Center, Fort Wayne.  
Born on October 21, 1926 in Columbia City, she was the daughter of Robert Franklin and Tacy Berniece (Hill) Baker.
She graduated from Wolf Lake High School with the Class of 1945 living in Ormas and Columbia City areas, moving to Fort Wayne in 1976. She was a homemaker and a clerk for Hooks Drug Stores in Columbia City and Fort Wayne for many years.        
Survivors include 2 daughters, Karen (Robert) Ballard of Fort Wayne, Linda (Christopher) Douglas, Cedar Park, TX and 1 son Steven (Margaret) Johnson, Goodlettsville, TN; 5 grandchildren, Chad (Gina) Johnson, Brett Wentz, Brook (Alexander) Sleder, Ryan (Chassidy) Johnson and Shelby Douglas; 4 great grandchildren; 3 sisters, Betty Gaylord, Cromwell, Tacy Ellen Kellogg, Greensboro, NC and Mary Skinner, Albion.  She was preceded in death by her parents, 1 daughter, Phyllis Joan Johnson and 2 brothers, Robert Eugene and Paul Baker.
At Mrs. Johnson's request, there will be no visitation or services.  Burial will be private.
Arrangements have been entrusted to DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home.    Memorials may be given in memory of Mrs. Johnson to the Whitley County Humane Society c/o DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home, 600 Countryside Drive, Columbia City, IN 46725.

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Barbara Jean Pressler Allman, 81, of Churubusco, IN passed away at 11:29 a.m. Wednesday, December 22, 2010 at her home.  
Born September 10, 1929 in Whitley County, IN, she was the daughter of Ernest L. and Helen L. (Shepard) Pressler.
She graduated from Columbia City High School.  On April 17, 1949 she married Guy W. Allman in Columbia City.  A resident of Churubusco since 1962, she was a manager and cook at Churubusco School with 29 years of service.  
Survivors include her son, Mark William (Sharon) Allman of Elkhart; daughter, Lisa J. (Byron) Trout of Churubusco; sister, Annabelle Enyeart of Bluffton; 4 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.  In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Guy W. Allman and brothers, David E. and Eugene L. Pressler.
There will be a private family gathering at DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home on Friday, December 31, 2010 with burial at Covington Memorial Gardens, Fort Wayne, IN.   

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Frank C. Mercer, 86, of Columbia City, died at 10:44 p.m. Wednesday, December 22, 2010 at his home.
He was born November 28, 1924 in Portsmouth, Ohio a son of Howard R. and Eunice (Hiller) Mercer. He was educated in Portsmouth and completed his education in criminology in New London, Ohio.
On April 5, 1943 he was inducted in the United States Army, serving during World War II. He was honorably discharged November 10, 1945.
From 1950 until 1959 he served as a detective for the Portsmouth Police Department. In 1959 he moved to Phoenix, Arizona and began his employment in security for Motorola until his retirement in 1985.
On April 10, 1969 he was united in marriage to Janis Marlene Rosenogle. They made their home in Phoenix, Arizona until 1989 when they returned to Portsmouth, Ohio. In 2006 they moved to their home in Columbia City.
He was a life member of the Miniature Pinscher Club of America.
Surviving relatives include his wife, Janis; four children, Sharon Curas of Mississippi, Theresa Todd of Ohio, Priscilla Hacker of Ohio and Frank Mercer Jr. of Arizona; two step daughters, Donna (Kenneth) Hyser of Columbia City and Cheryl Sue (Hogan) Smith of Fort Wayne; a special friend, Scott Bunnell of Arizona; 10 grandchildren; 10 great grandchildren; and his canine companion, Jazzi.
He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Roland and Gene.
A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, January 8, 2011 at Smith & Sons Coach Room with the family receiving friends after 10 a.m.
Preferred memorials are to Humane Society of Whitley County or Parkview Home Health & Hospice.

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Charles D. "Dave" Kilgore, 63, of rural Columbia City, died at 11:59 p.m. Tuesday, December 21, 2010 at Parkview Hospital, Fort Wayne where he was transported earlier in the evening after becoming suddenly ill.
He was born February 9, 1947 in Wolf Lake, Indiana a son of Charles K. and Lula (Baker) Kilgore. As a young boy his family moved to Detroit and later moved to Columbia City. He attended Columbia City High School and continued his education at Tri State University in Angola.
On October 23, 1964 he was united in marriage to Margaret J. Walter. They made their home in Columbia City until 1970 when they moved to Coldwater, Michigan. In 1972 they returned to make their home in Columbia Township, Whitley County.
He worked for Associated Truck Lines in Fort Wayne later transferring to Coldwater, Michigan. A mechanic, he also worked for Century 21 as a realtor.
In 1980 he established Kilgore Manufacturing adding Universal Manufacturing to his company line in 2004.
He was a member of Columbia City Lodge #189 Free & Accepted Masons, Scottish Rite, Mizpah Shrine, Whitley County Shrine Club, Columbia City Moose Lodge, National Rifle Association, National Wild Turkey Association and was awarded Businessman of the Year Award by the Columbia City Area Chamber of Commerce. He also received various other business awards.
Surviving relatives include his wife, Margaret; sons, Dennis A. Kilgore and James A. Haddon, both of Aurora IL; a daughter-in-law, Vicky L. Kilgore of Columbia City; two grandchildren, Toby Fralick and Amber (Wayne) Stambaugh; four sisters, Donna Ott of Wolf Lake, Bonita Vanderford of South Whitley, Jane Raynor of South Whitley and Ruth Hatfield of South Whitley; and two brothers, George Kilgore of Churubusco and Hugh Kilgore of Fort Wayne.
He was preceded in death by his father; mother and step father, Lula & Bill Bowers; a son, David Kelly Kilgore; and a brother, Darrel Kilgore.
The funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Monday at Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City. The burial will be in South Park Cemetery. The visitation will be from 2 to 7 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home.
Preferred memorials are to Humane Society of Whitley County.

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Morris W. Darley, 92, formerly of South Whitley, died at 11:30 p.m. Tuesday, December 21, 2010 at the Peabody Home, North Manchester where he had been a resident since September 2008.
He was born December 6, 1918 in Midland, Michigan a son of Ralph William and Marie (Morris) Darley. As a young boy, his family moved to South Whitley. He graduated from South Whitley High School and continued his education at Manchester College and Purdue University.
On November 21, 1940 he was united in marriage to Ruth Penrod. They made their home in the South Whitley area until 2008 when they moved to Peabody Retirement Community. Their winters were spent in Naples, Florida from 1980 until 2007. Mrs. Darley died June 25, 2009.
He worked for Edgar Sherbahn and from 1951 until 1980 was owner/president of D & C Construction.
His memberships include South Whitley United Methodist Church where he served as Chairman of Trustees; a Co-leader of Explorer Post #85; South Whitley Library Board President; and Director of Naples Estates Villagers Association.
Surviving relatives include four children, Janice (John) Whitt, Alan (Bethany) Darley, J.Rex Darley and Scott (Rhonda) Darley, all of South Whitley; seven grandchildren; 13 great grandchildren; a great great grandson; and a sister, Helen Hollinger of Goshen.
In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by a brother and two sisters.
The funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Friday at South Whitley United Methodist Church, 6685 W State Road 14 with visitation after 10 a.m. Visitation will also be from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday at Smith & Sons Miller Chapel, South Whitley.
Burial will take place at a later date at South Whitley Cemetery.
Preferred memorials are to South Whitley United Methodist Church.

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Dorothy M. Murphy, 81, of Columbia City, Ind. passed away at 6:16 a.m. on Monday, December 20, 2010 at Parkview Whitley Hospital, Columbia City.  
Born on November 5, 1929 in Kokomo, IN, she was the daughter of Carl and Pearl (Hyndman) Boyer.
She lived in Cromwell, Ind. then moved to Columbia City in 1994.  She graduated from Larwill High School with the Class of 1947.  On November 5, 1949, she married Garner E. Murphy in South Whitley, Ind.  She worked at Whitley Products, Pierceton, Ind. for 5 years and Weatherhead, Syracuse, Ind. for 34 years.  She is a past member of the South Whitley Church of God, South Whitley, Ind.
Survivors include many cousins.  She was preceded in death by her parents and husband, Garner E. Murphy on May 27, 2009.  At Mrs. Murphy's request there will be no visitation or services.  Burial will be private.  Memorials may be given in memory of Mrs. Murphy to Angelfood, c/o Eagle Quest Church, 1120 N. SR 109, Columbia City, IN  46725. 

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Norman W. Graves, 86, of Columbia City, died at 5:12 p.m. Monday, December 20, 2010 at Lutheran Hospital, Fort Wayne where he was admitted on Friday, December 17th.
He was born August 29, 1924 in Laud, Indiana a son of William Henry and Susan Rhoda (Smith) Graves. His formative years were spent in Jefferson Township. He was educated in the Jefferson Center High School and the Police Academy in Bloomington.
On June 4, 1946 he was united in marriage to Jeanice C. Sharpe. They made their home in Columbia City, Syracuse and later Roanoke for 20 years before moving to their home south of Columbia City in 1986. Mrs. Graves died September 12, 2010.
He drove truck for Bob Welker in Roanoke for five years, owned & operated Norm Graves Builders for 20 years and operated various restaurants over the years, Norm's Place from 1950-1958, Crossroad's Inn from 1982-1988, Country Post Inn in Huntington from 1994-1997, The Back Door from 1999-2000 and lastly Norm's Country Post from 2004-2005.
His memberships included I.O.O.F. in Dunfee, Eagles Lodge in Columbia City and Huntington, and the Moose Lodge in Huntington.
Surviving relatives include a daughter, Pamela S. Worrel of Roanoke; a son, William Joe (Jill) Graves of Delphos, Ohio; six grandchildren; a step grandson; four great grandchildren; and a sister, Rosella Wilson of Columbia City.
In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by a son, Gary E. Graves, and two brothers, DeLoss Graves and Loren Graves.
There will be no public visitation or service. Burial will take place at South Park Annex Cemetery.
Arrangements are being completed by Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City.

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Helen Lois Johnson, 81, of Columbia City, Ind. passed away at 11:58 p.m., Sunday, December 19, 2010 at Parkview Hospital, Fort Wayne, IN.  
Born on July 6, 1929 in Toledo, Ohio, she was the daughter of Albert and Evelyn (Bushrey) Bourdeau.
She was raised in Toledo, Ohio but lived the majority of her life in Temperance, Mich. before moving to Columbia City in 2001.  She attended the Toledo, Ohio school system.  A mother and homemaker, she worked for several years as a bus aide for the handicapped in the Bedford School System.  
Survivors include her 4 daughters, Linda (Robert) Wiemer of Toledo, Ohio; Peggy (Paul) Zimmerman of Temperance, Mich.; Barbara Hobbs of Toledo, Ohio, and Mary (John) Stockwell of Columbia City; 1 son, Michael (Cindy) Johnson of Toledo, OH; 13 grandchildren; and 18 great grandchildren.  She was preceded in death by her parents, great-grandson, Matthew Johnson, and brother, Wilbert Bourdeau.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, December 22, 2010, from 11a.m. until time of the service at 1:00 p.m. at Demoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home, 600 Countryside Drive, Columbia City, Ind.  Pastor Judy Follis of Hope Lutheran Church will officiate, burial will be private.   Memorial gifts may be given in Ms.  Johnson’s memory to the Make a Wish Foundation.  Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.

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Ralph E. Ervin, 61 of rural Columbia City, died at 1:30 a.m. Sunday, December 19, 2010 at Visiting Nurse and Hospice Home, Fort Wayne.
He was born March 23, 1949 in Huntington, Indiana a son of Thomas W. and Barbara Rosetta (Garrison) Ervin. He spent his formative years in Union Twp., Huntington County. The family moved to Fort Wayne where he attended Elmhurst High School.
On June 8, 1998 he was united in marriage to Joann Cavicchioni. She died June 3, 2006.
In 1968, he joined Stratoflex, Fort Wayne as a maintenance mechanic. Following the closing of the company in 1998, he was employed by Seyfert Foods and then Fort Wayne Foundry, Columbia City.
He served as a Cub Scout leader and Boy Scout leader. He was the current President of the Columbia City Lions Club and the past President of the Ossian Lions Club. He was a craftsman and his hobbies included building furniture.
He is survived by a son, James Ervin of Huntington; a sister, Linda Webber of Yoder and a brother, William (Kathy) Ervin of Fort Wayne.
The funeral service will be held 12:30 p.m. Wednesday, December 22 at Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City, with visitation from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Burial will be in Greenhill Cemetery.
Preferred memorials may be made to Columbia City Lions Club.

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Bernice L. Sheets, 84, of Columbia City, died at 9:24 p.m. Saturday, December 18, 2010 at Parkview Whitley Hospital where she was admitted on December 11th.
She was born January 1, 1926 in Seymour, Jackson County, Indiana a daughter of Louis William Henry and Martha Lisetta Elisa (Petering) Terkhorn. She graduated from Seymour High School and received her degree in nursing from Lutheran School of Nursing in 1947.
On September 27, 1947 she was united in marriage to Harold E. “Gene” Sheets. They made their home in Columbia City. Mr. Sheets died November 29, 2006.
A Registered Nurse, she was employed at Lutheran Hospital, Linvill Clinic and retired from Whitley County Memorial Hospital in 1988.
She was a member of Zion Lutheran Church and a former Girl Scout Leader.
Surviving relatives include three children, Barbara J. (Jerry) Lahrman of Columbia City, Dean (Barbara) Sheets of Big Lake and Connie J. (Mark) Forrester of Columbia City; six grandchildren, Jeffrey and Brian Lahrman, Travis and Tim Sheets, Jennifer Wilcoxson and Rhiannon Cormany; 10 great grandchildren; two brothers, Alvin Terkhorn and Victor Terkhorn, both of Seymour.
In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by two brothers and a sister, Ernest Terkhorn, Harold Terkhorn and Wilma Terkhorn.
The funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday at Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City. The burial will be in South Park Annex Cemetery. The visitation will be from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home.
Preferred memorials are to Worship for Shut-Ins.

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Anna Margaret Swihart, 94, of Columbia City, Ind. passed away at 7:50 a.m. on Saturday, December 18, 2010, at Miller's Merry Manor, Columbia City.  Born on April 15, 1916 in Elgin, Ill. she was the daughter of Peter H. and Phoebe Helen (Farney) Bahr.                    
She was born and raised in Elgin, Ill. before moving to Toledo, Ohio and Fort Wayne, Ind. She was married in Allen County and lived in Huntington County for 50 years before moving to Whitley County in 1998. She attended South Side High School, Fort Wayne.  On January 24, 1942, she married Ralph Jacob Swihart in Waynedale, Ind.  She was a secretary for Dr. Robert E. Bahr Medical Office in Fort Wayne, IN for 13 years, retiring in 1977.  She was a member and past-president of the American Legion Auxiliary #160, Roanoke, Ind.  as well as a member of New Hope Wesleyan Church, Columbia City.
Survivors include her 2 daughters, Nancy (Donald) Davis of Columbia City, Eleanore Bodenhamer of Tulsa, OK; 1 son, Leroy Swihart of Texas; and brother, Dr. Robert (Sue) Bahr of Fort Wayne, IN; 11 grandchildren, 25 great grandchildren, and 6 great great grandchildren.  She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, Ralph Jacob Swihart, brothers, Eugene, Joseph and Ted Bahr, sisters, Helen Rizzo and Mildred Kaminer, and granddaughter, Anna Bodenhamer.
Visitation is from 4 p.m.-8 p.m., Tuesday, December 21, 2010 at DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home, 600 Countryside Drive, Columbia City, IN.  Funeral service will be at 10:00 a.m.  on Wednesday, December 22, 2010 at New Hope Wesleyan Church, 971 N 400 W, Columbia City with calling one hour prior. Pastors Barry Faucett and Jason Tash will officiate with burial to follow at Jefferson Chapel (Sandbank) Cemetery.  Memorials may be given in memory of Mrs. Swihart to New Hope Wesleyan Church Building Fund or the donor's choice of charity.  Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.

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Josephine C. Ostermeyer, 94, formerly of Loon Lake, died at 7:15 p.m. Friday, December 17, 2010 at Miller's Merry Manor where she was admitted on November 26th.
She was born June 4, 1916 in Fort Wayne, Indiana a daughter of Joseph and Carrie (Harmon) Laisure. Her formative years were spent in Fort Wayne. She graduated from South Side High School.
On September 25, 1938 she was united in marriage to Frederick H. Ostermeyer. They made their home in Fort Wayne until 1950 when they moved to Loon Lake. Mr. Ostermeyer died October 24, 2003.
She worked at Columbia City Utilities for numerous years.
Surviving relatives include a son, Larry F. (Brenda) Ostermeyer of West Lafayette; a daughter, Barbara (James) Gibson of Columbia City; seven grandchildren; and eight great grandchildren.
In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by a son, Edward Lee Ostermeyer; a grandson; and two sisters, Bernice Cramer and Phyllis Wagner.
The funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. Tuesday at Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City with visitation after 12 Noon Tuesday. The burial will be in Greenhill Cemetery.
Preferred memorials are to Parkview Home Health & Hospice.

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Patricia A. VanNess, 70, of Huntington County, died at 9:19 a.m. Friday, December 17, 2010 at her home.
She was born June 12, 1940 in Whitley County, Indiana a daughter of Howard and Elloise (Glick) Genth. Her formative years were spent in the Laud area. She graduated from Columbia City High School in 1958.
On March 16, 1973 she was united in marriage to Wayne L. Van Ness. They moved to their present home a short time after marriage.
She retired from Ford Meter Box Company in 2005 with more than 25 years of service.
Surviving relatives include her husband, Wayne; a daughter, Diane Keel of Silver Lake; a step son, Jeffrey VanNess of Lagro; two grandchildren, Amber Keel and Kevin Keel; a great granddaughter, Taylor Keel; a brother, Darwin (Barbara) Genth of Columbia City; and a sister, Arnola Emerick of Ossian.
She was preceded in death by her parents and a brother, Arnold “Bud” Genth.
The funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday at Smith & Sons Miller Chapel, South Whitley. The burial will be in South Whitley Cemetery. The visitation will be from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Monday at the funeral home.
Preferred memorials may be made to Wabash/Miami County Hospice or Cancer Services of Northeast Indiana.

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Kenneth L. Helfrich, 96, of Columbia City, died at 12:00 a.m. Friday, December 17, 2010 at Miller’s Merry Manor where he had been a resident since December 8th.
He was born June 19, 1914 in Richland Township, Whitley County a son of Clifton Ray and Edith (Albert) Helfrich. His formative years were spent in Richland Township. He graduated from Larwill High School in 1932.
On September 2, 1933 he was united in marriage to Madeline E. Lenwell. They made their home on North Elm Street for 46 years and moved to their home on Blue River Drive in August 1989. Mrs. Helfrich died March 7, 2006.
He owned and operated the Standard Service Station for two years before his 27 years as parts and service manager for Ford Garage. From 1969 until 1976 he was a Columbia City Fire truck driver and police dispatcher. After his retirement in December 1976, he continued his electric motor repair shop.
He was a member of Columbia City United Methodist Church.
Surviving relatives include a daughter, Judy L. (Guilford) Cline of Huntington; six grandchildren, Brian Will, Tracy Beeching, Tony Helfrich, Laura Cortese, Randy Cline and Jody Posillipo; 10 great grandchildren; one great great grandson.
In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by two sons, Larry and Phillip; and two brothers, Garland and Bonnel.
The funeral service will be held at 5 p.m. Sunday at Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City.. The visitation will be from 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home.
The committal and entombment will begin at 11 a.m. Monday Garden of Memory, Huntington County.
Preferred memorials are to Columbia City United Methodist Church Building Fund.

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Mary L. Barnes, 90, formerly of rural Columbia City, died at 10:40 p.m. Sunday, December 12, 2010 at Parkview Main, Fort Wayne.
She was born April 29, 1920 in Wheatland, Indiana a daughter of Daniel and Daisy (Perigo) Gallagher. She spent her formative years in Union Twp., Whitley County and graduated from Coesse High School.
From 1962-1972, she was employed by Sears, Fort Wayne and then L.S. Ayres until 1980 when she joined Hudson’s/ Marshall Fields until her retirement in 1995.
She was a resident of Whitley County until 1981, then moved to Fort Wayne.
She was a member of Hope Lutheran Church, Coesse.
She is survived by a daughter, Karen Barnes-Morton, Fort Wayne; two sons, Larry (Connie) Barnes, Greensburg, IN and Mike (Carol) Barnes of Bluffton, South Carolina; 10 grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by four brothers, Martin, Leo, Charlie Gallagher and Ralph Conet and a sister, Margaret Reehling.
The funeral service will be held at 3:00 p.m. Friday at Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City with Rev. Judith Follis of Hope Lutheran Church officiating. The burial will be in Oak Grove Cemetery. The visitation will be from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. Friday at the funeral home.
Preferred memorials are to Hope Lutheran Church.

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Kathryn Margreat Pequignot, 93, of rural Fort Wayne, died at 10:55 a.m. Sunday, December 12, 2010 at Renaissance Village where she had been a resident since 2004.
She was born February 9, 1917 in Berne, Indiana a daughter of Peter and Della (Kuehm) Miller. Her formative years were spent in Aboite Township, Allen County where she completed her education.
On April 24, 1937 she was united in marriage to Lenord H. Pequignot. They made their home in Coesse, Dunfee and later rural Fort Wayne. Mr. Pequignot preceded her in death on April 2, 2003.
She was employed at Fort Wayne Tailoring Company and Bennetts in New Haven.
Her memberships included Jefferson Chapel United Methodist Church.
Surviving relatives include a son, Dennis H. Pequignot of Fort Wayne; a daughter, Sharon S. (Don) Wilkins of Roanoke; three grandchildren, Ryan J. Pequignot, Dane Wilkins and Sarah Wilkins Kieffer; a great grandson; a brother, Walter Miller of Fort Wayne; and four sisters, Luella Esterline of Columbia City, Hilda Roller of Fort Wayne, Irene Huey of Fort Wayne and Pauline Neddo of Indianapolis.
In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by two sisters, Almeda Thomkinson and Florence Miller.
The funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday at Jefferson Chapel United Methodist Church with visitation one hour prior to the service. The burial will be in Jefferson Chapel Cemetery. The visitation will also be from 4 to 7 p.m. Wednesday at Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City.
Preferred memorials are to Jefferson Chapel United Methodist Church.

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Robert Briggs Estlick, 94, a former resident of Columbia City, died at 9 p.m. Wednesday, December 1, 2010 in Edina, Minnesota.
He was born April 1, 1916 in Troy Township, Whitley County a son of Neil T. and Blanche M. Estlick. His formative years were spent in Troy Township. He was educated in the Etna Troy School, graduated from Columbia City High School in 1934 and from Indiana University in 1939 with a degree in business.
In 1939 he purchased Estlick Insurance Agency from his grandfather, Charles Estlick. In 1947 he organized the Whitley County Association of Independent Insurance Agents and was elected President of the Indiana Association of Insurance Agents in 1957 and 1958. He also served on several committees for the National Association of Insurance Agents. He retired in 1982.
On February 25, 1940 he was united in marriage to Natalie E. Hoover. They made their home in Columbia City until 1984 when they moved to Dunnellon, Florida, often returning for the summer to spend time at Crooked Lake. Since 2001 they had made their home near their daughters in Marietta, Georgia until 2008 when Mr. Estlick moved near his son in Edina, Minnesota for health reasons.
In March 1944 he enlisted in the United States Navy and was commissioned an Ensign after attending Harvard Naval School in Boston. He served aboard the APA 55 USS Windsor, an attack transport ship, in the Pacific Theater during World War II. He was honorably discharged in March 1946.
A former member of Columbia City United Methodist Church, he was a member of East Cobb United Methodist Church in Marietta GA. His memberships also include Columbia City Lodge #189 Free & Accepted Masons, Scottish Rite, Mizpah Shrine, Fort Wayne Consistory Right Templars and Fort Wayne Benevolent & Protective Order of Elks #55.
An avid golfer, he continued to play several times a week until age 93 and shot his age several times in his late 70’s and 80’s. He also had four holes in one over his lifetime playing golf. He enjoyed pike fishing and took several Canadian fishing trips with his Columbia City fishing friends in the late 40’s and 50’s. In later years he enjoyed fishing with his wife, Natalie at the family cottage in Coldwater, Michigan and then with his son over the past several years in northern Minnesota.
In 1987 he developed an interest in genealogy and actively pursued the Estlick heritage back to the late 1500’s. His conversations, travel and research spanned from Washington to New Jersey. He compiled a very complete book and made copies to distribute to family members.
Surviving relatives include his wife, Natalie; three children, Karen (Tom) Sangillo of Columbia City, Tyron (Mary) Estlick of Edina MN and Tamara (Michael) Guilday of Atlanta GA; seven grandchildren, Mark Rigg, Kristin Rigg, Daniel Estlick, David Estlick, Peter Estlick, Michael Guilday and Laura Guilday; five great grandchildren, Andrew, Simon and Maren Ronald, Paul and Mary Estlick Rigg; and two sisters, Lois Blanding of Cedar Rapids MI and Dorothy Wiltrout of Warsaw.
His legacy is one of an honest businessman not afraid to put in a hard day’s work while being a good friend to many. He very much enjoyed his entire family and special friends and in the latter years of his life counted his blessings as many. He will be sorely missed.
The funeral service will be held at 11:30 a.m. Saturday at Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City. The visitation will be from 4 to7 p.m. Friday at the funeral home.
The burial will be at a late date at South Park Annex Cemetery.
Preferred memorials are to the Alzheimer’s Support Group at Columbia City United Methodist Church.

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Alecia Louise Stine, 24, of rural Columbia City died at 12:07 a.m. Friday, December 3, 2010 at her home.
She was born August 25, 1986 in Fort Wayne, Indiana a daughter of Shannon and Tammy (Stine) Leazier. Her formative years were spent in Washington Twp., Whitley County. She attended Columbia City High School and later completed her G.E.D. She then completed a Certified Nurses Assistant program.
In addition to her C.N.A., she worked for various fast food franchises in the area.
She leaves behind a son, Damien Ray Smith and daughter, Aunna Marie Dean; her parents, Shannon and Tammy Leazier of Fort Wayne; grandparents, Ken and Marilyn Stine, Roanoke, Judy Patten, Columbia City and great grandmother, Bernadine Stine, Roanoke; a brother, Logan McKown, Columbia City; three sisters, Jade Wise, Lauren McKown, Lexy McKown, all of Columbia City and several aunts and uncles.
The funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m. Tuesday with visitation from 11:00 to 1:00 p.m. at Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City. The burial will be in Nolt Cemetery.
Preferred memorials are to Final Expenses c/o Smith and Son Funeral Home.

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Donald Laurel "Smiley" Reed, 91, of Columbia City, Ind. passed away at 12:20 p.m. on Friday, December 3, 2010, at The Oaks, Columbia City.
Born on August 27, 1919 in Logansport, IN, he was the son of Homer L. and Ruth (Twells) Reed.
A resident of South Whitley since 1965, he has resided at The Oaks/Oak Pointe in Columbia City since 2006.  He graduated from Logansport High School with the Class of 1938 and received an Associate Degree in Accounting from Fort Wayne Business College.  He served in the United States Navy during World War II from 1941-1945.  On August 1, 1942, he was united in marriage to Lela Sauer in Fort Wayne, IN.  After his military service he worked as an accountant, retiring from United Technologies in 1981.  He was a member of St. John's Lutheran Church, South Whitley and was an avid Chicago Cubs fan.
Survivors include his son, Thomas (Cinthia) Reed of Bryan, OH; daughters, Barbara J. Cochran of Gurnee, IL and Dr. Debra (Dr. Arnie) Blank of Brookline, MA; 5 grandchildren, Dr. Kristin Reed of Richmond, VA, Staff Sgt. Benjamin Reed of Fort Bragg, NC, Sam Blank of Brookline, MA, Kelly and Kacey Criswell of Columbus, OH.  He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, Lela Reed in 1990 and sister, Mary Kay McKaig.
Visitation is 4-8p.m. Thursday, December 9, 2010 at DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home, 600 Countryside Drive, Columbia City, IN.  Funeral service will be on Friday, December 10, 2010 at 11:00 a.m. at DeMoney-Grimes Funeral Home with Reverend Timothy McKaig of Shiloh Christian Church, Logansport officiating. Burial will follow at St. John's Lutheran Cemetery, 225 West 100 North, Logansport, Ind. with graveside service beginning at 2:00 p.m.  Memorials may be given in memory of Mr. Reed to The Haiti Lutheran Mission Society, USA, P.O. Box 22544, Lincoln, NE 68542. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.  

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Michael D. Gingher, 67, of Thorncreek Township, Whitley County, died Friday, December 3, 2010 at Glencrest Nursing & Rehab Center in Chicago where he was admitted October 5th after an extended illness.
He was born March 23, 1943 in Fort Wayne, Indiana a son of Harold R. and Sarah A. (Arnold) Gingher. He lived throughout the United States while his father was stationed in the United States Marine Corps. He graduated from Quantico High School.
He served in the United States Marine Corps for 31 years, retiring in 1991.
He also retired from General Electric with 31 years of service.
After his retirement, he taught maintenance and troubleshooting to police and their equivalents throughout the world.
In June 1981 he was united in marriage to Linda J. Witten. They made their home in Fort Wayne and later Tri Lakes. Mrs. Gingher died April 2, 1992.
On March 30, 2002 he was united in marriage to Nancy S. Lloyd. They have always made their home in Thorncreek Township.
He was a member of New Hope Wesleyan Church, Columbia City Lodge #189 Free & Accepted Masons, Past Master of Maumee Lodge #725 F. & A. M., Mizpah Shrine, Allen County Shrine Club, Ducks Unlimited, Whitley County Leatherneck Club, NRA life member, National Muzzle Loading Rifle Association life member, Midwest Gun Traders and Whitley County Korean War Veterans Honor Guard.
Surviving relatives include his wife, Nancy; a son, David (Tasha) Gingher of Waterloo; two step children, Rick (Judy) Buell of Syracuse and Jan (Jerry) McCormick of Churubusco; 17 grandchildren; three great grandchildren; and two sisters, Anna G. Simmons of South Whitley and Nancy L. Willis of Culpepper VA.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a daughter, Christine.
The funeral service will be held at 1 p.m. Wednesday at Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City. The visitation will be from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home with a Masonic Service at 8 p.m. Tuesday.
The burial will be in Lindenwood Cemetery, Fort Wayne with military honors presented.
Preferred memorials are to Shriners Hospitals for Children.

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Samuel I. Watkins, 77, of rural South Whitley died at 11:43 p.m. Tuesday, November 30, 2010 at Parkview Hospital, Fort Wayne where he was transported earlier in the evening.
He was born February 6, 1933 in Breathitt County, Vancleve, Kentucky a son of Ballard and Lida (Smith) Watkins. He completed his education in the Perry County Schools.
A United States Army Veteran, he served in Europe during the Korean War. He was honorably discharged August 31, 1961.
On January 29, 1957 he was united in marriage to Helen Clemons. They made their home in Perry County, Kentucky until January 1966 when they moved to Richland Township, Whitley County.
He was a coal miner until moving to Indiana in 1966 when he began his employment at Arnolt Corp. in Pierceton until 1972 when he began working at L M L in Columbia City until his retirement in 1983.
He was a member of Free United Baptist Church near Pierceton.
Surviving relatives include his wife of nearly 54 years, Helen; eight sons, Glen (Mary) Watkins of Allentown PA, Mack Allen (Shirley) Pratt of Pierceton, Kenneth Ray Pratt of South Whitley, Benjamin James (Sandra) Pratt of Austin, George Ballard Watkins of Kendallville, Samuel David Watkins of Columbia City, Robert G. (Lisa) Watkins of South Whitley and Gilbert D. Watkins of South Whitley; two daughters, Barbara J. Baker of South Whitley and Lida Kay (Richard) Rebman of Larwill; 32 grandchildren; 47 great grandchildren; and seven great great grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by a daughter, Josephine Brooks and two brothers, Willard Watkins and Clay Watkins.
The funeral service will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday at Smith & Sons Miller Chapel, South Whitley. The burial will be in Booneville Cemetery. The visitation will be from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Friday at the funeral home.
Preferred memorials may be made to Free United Baptist Church.

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Cameron Robert Amber, 20, a resident of Churubusco, passed away at 6:35 p.m. on Thursday, December 2, 2010, from the results of a two vehicle accident on U. S. 33, south of Churubusco.
Cameron was born on February 5, 1990 in Columbia City, a son of Robert C. and Marna (Friskney) Amber, and was a lifelong resident of Churubusco.  He graduated from Churubusco High School in 2009, and was the school’s quarterback for its semi-state team in 2007.  He had served with the U. S. Air Force, coached Churubusco Youth Football, and enjoyed his diesel truck.
He had been employed at 80/20 in Columbia City since August.
The surviving relatives include his parents Bob and Marna Amber of Churubusco; two sisters Ashton (James Ford) Amber of Fort Wayne and Taylor Amber, a student at Huntington University; his brother Carlin Amber, at home; his paternal grandparents Don and Patty Amber of Churubusco; his maternal grandmother Marjorie Friskney of Albion; his fiancee Nicole Pippenger of Avilla; and a nephew Braylon McCoy.
He was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather Willis J. Friskney on August 1, 2010.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a. m. on Monday, December 6, 2010, at the Churubusco United Methodist Church, with Pastors Corinne K. Boruff and Timothy Grable, officiating.
The family will receive friends at the church on Sunday from 2 to 8 p. m., or one hour prior to the service Monday morning.
Interment will be in the Eel River Cemetery, south of Churubusco.
In lieu of flowers, memorials should be directed to Churubusco Youth Football; or the trust for the child of Cameron and Nicole in care of Star Financial Bank.
Sheets & Childs Funeral Home in Churubusco is in charge of the arrangements.

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Joe W. Krider, 94, a resident of rural Churubusco in Allen County, passed away at 7:40 a. m. on Friday, December 3, 2010, at his residence in Eel River Township following a lengthy illness.
Mr. Krider was born on April 25, 1916 in Smith Township, south of Collins, a son of Ralph and Vida (Smith) Krider, and was a lifelong resident of this area.   On June 6, 1937 he was married in Eel River Township to Grace Chapman, and had lived at his current address since 1949.
In addition to being engaged in farming, he had previously worked at General Electric in Fort Wayne.  He retired in 1979 as a truck driver for Peter Eckrich Company in Fort Wayne after 20 years.
He was a member of the Good News Baptist Church in Churubusco.
The surviving relatives include his wife Grace, to whom he was married for over 73 years; four sons David R. (Elaine) Krider of Churubusco, William W. Krider of Fort Wayne, Stanley E. (Gaurdis) Krider of St. George, Utah, and Rev. Eldon L. (Margo) Krider of Mio, Mich; a sister Troas Phillips of Columbia City; a brother Phil R. (Ruth) Krider of South Whitley; nine grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandson.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two brothers Max Krider and C. Jean Krider; an infant daughter Cheryl Krider; and two grandsons Kevin Krider and Neil Krider.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a. m. on Tuesday, December 7, 2010, at the Sheets & Childs Funeral Home in Churubusco with his son Rev. Eldon L. Krider, officiating.
The family will receive friends at the mortuary on Monday from 4 to 8 p. m.
Interment will be in the Christian Chapel Cemetery, Merriam.
For those who wish, memorials may be directed to Good News Baptist Church or Parkview Home Health & Hospice.

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