Memorials

Leola Williamson, 88, of South Whitley, died at 8:35 p.m. Saturday, February 25, 2012 at Parkview Oaks, Columbia City where she became a resident one week prior.
She was born August 20, 1923 in South Whitley, Indiana a daughter of Reed and Ida Irene (Rivet) Brower. Her formative years were spent in Collamer. She completed her education at South Whitley High School.
On November 3, 1945 she was united in marriage to James A. Williamson. They made their home in South Whitley and Tunker, returning to South Whitley in 1953. Mr. Williamson died December 31, 2007.
She retired from Weatherhead and also worked at Stumps.
Her church affiliation was at Collamer Christian Church.
Surviving relatives include a daughter, Pamela S. (Terry) Hicks of South Whitley; three grandchildren, Tara Jackson, Tony Hicks and Faith (Chris) Moyer; five great grandchildren; and a brother, Harold Brower of Columbia City.
In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by two sons, David Leedy and Jimmie Lee Williamson; a great granddaughter; four brothers, Robert Brower, Carroll Dean Brower, Alvin Brower and Richard Brower; and five sisters, Viola Brower, Lucille LaRue, Mary Lou Keppler, Ruth Joan Combs and Audrey Barker.
There will be no public visitation or service. A private service will be held at Smith & Sons Miller Chapel, South Whitley. Burial will be in South Whitley Cemetery.
Preferred memorials are to Collamer Christian Church.

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Donald M. Lienerth, 81, of rural Columbia City, died Friday, February 24, 2012 at his home. He had been in failing health.
He was born April 2, 1930 in Saginaw, Michigan a son of John and Sophia (Artz) Lienerth. His formative years were spent in Michigan.
During the Korean War, he served as a paratrooper with the 82nd Airborne of the United States Army.
In August 1952 he married Dora Lee Payne. They made their home in Grand Rapids, Michigan until 1964 when they moved to Indianapolis. In 1976 they moved to Fort Wayne. Mrs. Lienerth died in 1999. In 2000, Don moved to Allegan, Michigan until moving to Columbia City two years ago.
A diesel mechanic, he worked for Peninsular Detroit Diesel and retired from Clark GM Diesel in 1990.
Surviving relatives include five children, David (Linda) Lienerth of Westfield, Diane (Richard) Hurst of Columbia City, Donna (Jo Murray) Lienerth of Indianapolis, Denise Sheetz of Columbia City and Daniel (Heather) Lienerth of Diamondale, Michigan; 20 grandchildren; nine great grandchildren; and a sister, Margaret Randolph of California.
The service will be 12 Noon on Saturday, March 3rd at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens, Grand Rapids, Michigan.
Preferred memorials are to American Heart Fund.
Arrangements are by Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City.

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Steven Gregory Birchum, 48, of Columbia City, IN passed away at 7:30 p.m.  Friday, February 24, 2012 at Parkview Oaks, Columbia City.  
Born on September 11, 1963 in Whitley County, he was the son of Clarence and Reva M. (Banks) Birchum.
He attended Columbia City Joint High School and then moved to Monroe, GA for 30 years where he did maintenance at a RV Park.  He attended Freewill Baptist Church.
Survivors include his daughter, Elexus Birchum of Wynder, GA; sons, Jamie Birchum of Columbia City and Jason Paseka of Columbia City;  mother,  Reva M.  Grable of Columbia City; brothers, Chris E. (Debbie) Birchum of Columbia City and Jammy (Kim) Birchum of Morganton, NC;  sister, Kim J. Jefferson of Hillsboro, KY.  He was preceded in death by his father, Clarence Birchum.
Visitation is from 10:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. Tuesday, February 28, 2012 at DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home, 600 Countryside Drive, Columbia City, with funeral service following at 1:00 on Tuesady at the funeral home. Pastor Jeremy Arrowood officiating. Burial at Thorn Cemetery, Ormas.  Memorials may be given in memory of Mr. Birchum's to Parkview Home Health and Hospice.  Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.  Please visit www.demoneygrimes.com to send family condolences or sign the guest register book.

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Nolt N. "Pork" Wilcken, 80, of Columbia City, IN passed away at 3:41 p.m. Friday, February 24, 2012 at St. Joseph Medical Center, Fort Wayne.  Born on February 24, 1932 in Columbia City, he was the son of Everett Edward and Turah Mae (Nolt) Wilcken.
Except for a few years when he was very young, he has lived his entire life in Whitley County and at Shriner Lake since 1939.  He received his formal education in the elementary school of Thorncreek Township and graduated from Columbia City High School with the Class of 1950.  He served in the United States Navy from 1951-1955.  He retired in 1987 from Navistar International, Inc., Fort Wayne, for 28 years.  He attended the Tri-Lakes Baptist Church and was a member of Post #98 American Legion, Columbia City.
Survivors include his children, Dane D. and Laree A. Wilcken both of Columbia City; 2 grandsons, Jacob of Fort Wayne and Isaiah Wilcken of Charleston; 1 great grand daughter, Isabella Wilcken of Fort Wayne; brother, Devon Wilcken of FL. He was preceded in death by his parents.
Visitation will be held on Tuesday, February 28, 2012 from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home, 600 Countryside Drive, Columbia City. Funeral service will be at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, February 29, 2012 at the funeral home with Pstor Brad Fredrickson officiating with burial at Nolt Cemetery.  Memorials may be given in memory of Mr. Wilcken's to the donor's choice. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.

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Tura C. Poehler, 93, of Columbia City, died at 1 a.m. Thursday, February 23, 2012 at Visiting Nurse & Hospice Home, Fort Wayne where she was admitted on Tuesday, February 21st.
She was born February 9, 1919 in Huntington, Indiana a daughter of John Henry and Catherine (Swearer) Forst. Her formative years were spent in Huntington. She completed her education at Huntington High School.
In 1940 she was united in marriage to Earl James Poehler. They made their home in Huntington until 1963 when they moved to Tri Lakes. Mr. Poehler preceded her in death on May 16, 1970. In 1980 Tura moved into Columbia City.
She was employed at Schaeck Rubber Company for three years, Memcor for six years and Triad Utrad for 20 years, retiring in 1981.
Her memberships included Zion Lutheran Church and A.A.R.P.
Surviving relatives include four children, Ronald J. (Carole) Poehler of Fort Wayne, Carol (George Duane) Gearhart of Fort Wayne, Sharon Reid of Fort Wayne and Charlotte (Alan) Boots of Bluffton; four grandchildren; eight great grandchildren; a sister, Esther Wygant of Huntington; and a brother, Porter Forst of Peru.
In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by three brothers, Ira Forst, Carl Forst and Noah Forst; and four sisters, Ethel Sparks, Della Reiken, Irene Sands and Geneva Forst.
The funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Monday at Zion Lutheran Church, 101 East North Street, Columbia City with one hour of visitation prior to service. Visitation will also be from 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday at Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City.
The committal service and burial will begin at 2:30 p.m. Monday at Gardens of Memory, Marion.

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Madelene Geneva Hively, 91, of Churubusco, formerly of Thorncreek Twp. Whitley County, died at 10:12 a.m. Thursday, February 23, 2012 at Lutheran Hospital, Fort Wayne.
She was born July 19, 1920 in Whitley County, Indiana a daughter of the late Grover E. and Estella M. (Shively) Jagger. Her formative years were spent in the Blue River area. She graduated from Churubusco High School in 1938.
On September 21, 1940 she was united in marriage to Allan Egolf. Mr. Egolf died March 20, 1945 in the European Theater during WWII. On April 19, 1947 she was united in marriage to Gerald J. Hively. They made their home for 47 years on a farm in Thorncreek Twp. Mr. Hively died July 12, 1993.
She started her employment with Blue Bell in Columbia City. During WWII, she was employed by General Electric, Fort Wayne and later Lincoln Life. She retired from Columbia City High School where she worked in the cafeteria for 26 years.
She was an 81 year member of the Blue River Church of the Brethren being baptized on November 3, 1930. She was also a member of Thorncreek Happy Homemakers.
Surviving relatives include a daughter, Brenda S. Saggars of Churubusco and a son, Dennis L.(Darcy) Hively of Syracuse; a granddaughter, Shawn (J.R.) Kercher; two grandsons, Christopher (Jenna) Mock and Andrew (Johanna) Mock; two great grandchildren, Heidi Jones and Madison Breedlove; two sisters, H. Ruth Pickett R.N., Fort Wayne and Gladys Squires, Fort Wayne, and a special sister-in-law, Cora Dean Hively, Columbia City.
In addition to her two husbands, she was preceded in death by three sisters, Evelyn Kimmel, Lois Gandy, and Mabel McCoy, and a sister-in-law, Marjorie Schneider.

The funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Sunday at the Blue River Church of the Brethren, 3040 E 700N, Columbia City, with Pastor Craig Myers, officiating. Burial will be in the Christian Chapel Cemetery at Merriam. Visitation will be from 3 to 7 p.m. Saturday at Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City and one hour prior to the service at the church.
Preferred memorials are to the Blue River Church of the Brethren Missions or Deacon Fund. 

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Ruth M. Bowser, 86, formerly of Washington Township, Whitley County, died at 5:15 p.m. Monday, February 20, 2012 at Renaissance Village where she had been a resident since 2007.
She was born August 3, 1925 in Munising, Michigan a daughter of Harley E. and Sallie (Riley) Adair. As a sophomore in high school, she moved to the Chicago area with her brother. She graduated from Walter High School in Chicago in 1943. After graduation she moved to Fort Wayne.
On July 19, 1947 she was united in marriage to Junior D. Bowser. They made their home in Fort Wayne until 1978 when they moved to their home in Washington Township. Mr. Bowser died April 10, 2004.
She was employed at Bowser Factory for a couple years, Arrow Motor Transit Trucking Company from 1945 to 1951 and General Electric Cafeteria for a few years.
Surviving relatives include two children, Joseph (Patricia) Bowser of South Whitley and Sandra (Robert) Ax of North Liberty; six grandchildren; and five great grandchildren.
In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by nine brothers.
The funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday at Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City. The burial will be in Huntertown Cemetery. The visitation will be from Noon to 2 p.m. Saturday at the funeral home.
Preferred memorials are to V.F.W. Children's Home.

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Berniece E. Rex, 93, of Columbia City, IN passed away at 4:35 a.m. Monday, February 20, 2012 at Miller's Merry Manor Inc., Columbia City.
Born October 21, 1918 in Noble Township, IN, she was the daughter of John L. and Sophia E. (Fankhouser) Young.
She graduated from Wolf Lake High School with the Class of 1936. On January 21, 1939, she married Luther E. Rex in Noble Township. A Noble County resident most of her lifetime, she and her husband lived in Muncie between March, 1939 and April, 1942. Before her marriage, she was employed for two years by the former Blue Bell, Inc. After her marriage, she devoted her time to being a homemaker and mother. She was a member at Merriam Christian Chapel and their Sarah Circle Mission Group.
Survivors include her 2 daughters, Beth Crampton of Albuquerque, New Mexico and Alice McNeal of Avilla; 2 sons, Bruce  E. (Lucinda) Rex of Columbia City and Alan Rex of Albion; 16 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; 2 great great grandchildren. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Luther E. Rex, great-granddaughter, Alisha Handshoe, sister, Thelma Young, and brother, Preston Young.
Visitation is Thursday, February 23, 2012 from 4-8 p.m. at DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home, 600 Countryside Drive, Columbia City. Funeral service will be Friday, February 24, 2012 at 10 a.m. at the funeral home with Pastor Steve Pulley officiating. Burial will follow at Thorn Cemetery, Ormas. Memorials may be given in memory of Mrs. Rex to Gideons International for Bibles. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Please visit www.demoneygrimes.com to send family condolences or sign the guest register book.

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Peggy Jean Heindselman, 86, of South Whitley died at 8:48 a.m. Friday, February 17, 2012, at Parkview Oaks where she had been a resident for the last four weeks.
She was born July 6, 1925 in Fort Wayne, Indiana a daughter of Clifford and Bessie (Shorb) Sickafoose. Her formative years were spent in the Fort Wayne. She started high school at Northside, Fort Wayne and finished her senior year at South Whitley graduating with the Class of 1943.
Following her graduation, she worked for Lincoln Life, Fort Wayne. On February 1, 1947 she was united in marriage to John K. Heindselman. They made their home in South Whitley. Mr. Heindselman died April 30, 2001.
She was employed by the South Whitley Tribune and for over 10 years at the former Gripco, South Whitley. She was a life member of VFW Post 2919, South Whitley and a Boy Scouts of America, Cub Scout leader.
An accomplished gardener, she enjoyed starting and raising her own plants.
Surviving relatives include two sons, Terry B. (Dawn) Heindselman, South Whitley and Ted B. (Madaya) Heindselman, Columbia City; four grandchildren, Jennifer (Nathan) Harris, Warsaw, Trisha Heindselman of Texas, Holly Heindselman, Indianapolis and Heather Heindselman, New Haven; two great grandchildren; a step-granddaughter, Amber (Larry) Shaw, South Whitley; a step-grandson, Ryan (Heather) Harrison, six step great grandchildren and a sister, Carolyn Cokl, South Whitley.
The funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m. Tuesday at Smith & Sons Miller Chapel, South Whitley. Burial will be in the South Whitley Cemetery. Visitation will be 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Monday at the funeral home.
Preferred memorials are to Parkview Whitley Home Health and Hospice.

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Dean L. Jines, 72, of Columbia City, IN passed away at 9:37 a.m. Sunday, February 19, 2012 at Visiting Nurse and Hospice Home, Fort Wayne, IN. Born March 7, 1939 in Wabash, IN, he was the son of Leslie T. Jines and Anna (Ridenour) Brooks.
He was raised in Wabash County where he graduated from Wabash City Schools. From 1956-1962, he served in the United States Marine Corps. On May 10, 1958 he married Vonnie L. Boardman in Wabash. In 1973, he and his family moved to Whitley County, moving to Auburn in 1990 and Fort Wayne in 1993. He returned to Columbia City in 1997. He worked for T&T Plumbing & Heating, Inc, LaOtto. He also worked at Scott Food Stores, Fort Wayne, Ford Meter Box, Wabash, and Flow Tech, Columbia City. He was a member of Trinity Evangelical Presbyterian Church, Columbia City.
Survivors include his wife, Vonnie L. Jines of Columbia City; son, Dennis D. (Marcia) Jines of Columbia City; daughter, Denise D. (Todd) Porter of Columbia City; 6 grandchildren, Drew (fiancee, Amanda) Jines, Seth (Kirsten) Jines, Brent Jines, Austin Porter, Carley Porter and Madison Porter; brothers, Jack L. Jines of Tampa, FL, and DeWayne Brooks of Peru. He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers, Richard Lee and Douglas Brooks.
Visitation will be held Wednesday, February 22, 2012 from 3-8 p.m. at DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home, 600 Countryside Drive, Columbia City. Funeral service will be held Thursday, February 23, 2012 at 10 a.m. at the funeral home with Reverend Ross O'Dell and Pastor Judy Follis officiating. In lieu of flowers, please send memorials in memory of Mr. Jines to Trinity Evangelical Presbyterian Church or Visiting Nurse and Hospice Home. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Please visit www.demoneygrimes.com to send family condolences or sign the guest register book.

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Ardith Fay Baker, 81, of Columbia City, IN passed away at 7:40 a.m. Friday, February 17, 2012 at Miller's Merry Manor Inc., Columbia City.  Born March 29, 1930 in Thorncreek Township, Whitley County, IN, she was the daughter of Arthur Henry and Marie Helen (Fullmer) Baron.
Her formative years were spent in Columbia City and Whitley County where she attended Thorncreek Elementary School and Columbia City High School. On November 9, 1947 she was united in marriage to Harold Oran Baker.  In 1969, she and her family moved to Meridian, Mississippi where her husband took a position as a tool and die supervisor.  In 1991, she returned to Indiana to live with her daughter, Linda, and grandchildren. For the past two years, she has been a resident of Miller's Merry Manor, Inc. A homemaker, she also worked at Blue Bell Co., Columbia City, and Chamberlain Products, South Whitley. She attended the Church of God. Her memberships included Blue River Community Church and 1930 Pen Pal Club, where all of the members were born in 1930.
She is survived by six children, Linda Johnson of Columbia City; Thomas Baker of Ellettsville; Lonald "Lonnie" Wayne Baker of Fort Wayne; Ricky Eugene Baker of Philadelphia, MS; Dennis Dean Baker of Fulton, MS; Brenda Dempsey of Meridian, MS; grandchildren that were primary caregivers, Deana Trowbridge of Pierceton, Donya LaRue and David Johnson both of Columbia City and Sierra Dingus of South Carolina plus 17 more grandchildren; 30 great-grandchildren; 2 great great grandsons. She was preceded in death by her parents; step-mother, Orpha L. Baron; husband, Harold Oran Baker; brothers, Earland and Dick Baron; sisters, Geneva May Baron and Eloise Jean Baron; grandchildren, Thomas Lee Baker, Jr., Ava Michelle Baker, Cassandra Dena Baker and Mason Storm Trowbridge.
Visitation was Sunday, February 19, 2012 from 2-6 p.m. at DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home, 600 Countryside Drive, Columbia City. Funeral service was Monday, February 20, 2012 at 10 a.m. at the funeral home with Pastor Curtiss Johnson officiating. Burial followed at Nolt Cemetery, Columbia City.  Memorials may be given in memory of Mrs. Baker to the donor's choice of charity. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Please visit www.demoneygrimes.com to send family condolences or sign the guest register book.

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Fredrick J. Harroff, 72, of Columbia City, IN passed away at 1:40 p.m. Thursday, February 16, 2012 at his home.  Born September 16, 1939 in Churubusco, IN, he was the son of Herbert Theodore and Bethel Marie (Pennington) Harroff.
A Whitley County resident most of his lifetime, he attended several high schools and proudly served his country in the United States Navy. On December 17, 1963 he married Sherry Lindell Williams in Albion, Noble County. He worked as a warehouseman for 30 years at Food Marketing, Fort Wayne. He was a member of the Churubusco American Legion Post #157.
Survivors include his wife, Sherry L. Harroff of Columbia City; 2 daughters, Kim (Gary) Gorsuch of Albion and Roberta (Dean) Wort of Hicksville, OH; 8 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren; 3 sisters, Mary (David) Gator of North Carolina, Liz Hatcher of Fort Wayne and Rilla (Stanley) Walter of Columbia City; 1 brother, John Harroff of Fort Wayne. He is preceded in death by his parents, daughter, Deana Wagner, grandchildren, Matthew and Anthony Wagner, 3 brothers and 1 sister.
To honor Mr. Harroff's wishes, there will be no visitation or service. Memorial gifts may be given in Mr. Harroff's memory to Heartland Hospice, 1315 Directors Row, Ste. 210, Fort Wayne, IN  46808. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Arrangements were entrusted to DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home, Columbia City.

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Martha I. Long, 83, of Columbia City, died Thursday morning, February 16, 2012 at Miller's Merry Manor where she had been a resident since October 14, 2011.
She was born February 29, 1928 in Warren, Indiana a daughter of George E. and Mable (Moyer) Long. In 1930 her family moved to Mooresville and in 1943 to Columbia City. She graduated from Columbia City High School in 1946 and attended Manchester College for two years.
She was a proofreader and writer for Columbia City Post & Mail for two years prior to her employment with Lincoln National Life Insurance Company in Fort Wayne for more than 32 years, retiring in 1983.
In 1950 she moved to Fort Wayne, returning to Columbia City in 1984.
Her memberships included Columbia City United Methodist Church and its Esther Circle where she served as a former secretary. She was also a member of AARP, Walnut Corner Club, Humane Society of Whitley County, Whitley County Historical Society and several other organizations in Columbia City, Fort Wayne and Warsaw.
Surviving relatives include a brother, Stanley (Alberta) Long of Johnstown PA; a nephew, Adam Long of Minneapolis MN; a niece, Celia (Paul) Siegel and daughters, Annabelle and Josephine, all of Minneapolis MN.
The funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday at Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City. There will be no visitation. The burial will be in Eberhard Cemetery.
Preferred memorials are to the Humane Society of Whitley County.

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Ruth O. Ross, 94, of Columbia City, IN passed away at 10:00 p.m. Monday, February 13, 2012 at Miller's Merry Manor Inc., Columbia City. 
Born February 9, 1918, in Jelloway, Knox County, OH, she was the daughter of Charles E. Birkhold and Onata Zoe (Snellenberger) Birkhold-Jeffery.
She graduated from Paulding High Schools, Ohio with the Class of 1936.  On January 6, 1936 she married Francis W. Ross in Hillsdale, MI. In 1945, she moved from Ohio to Columbia City.  She worked at Broom Printing Company in Paulding, OH and Magnovox in Fort Wayne, IN for 36 years.  She was a member of Grace Lutheran Church, Eagles and Moose Auxiliaries.
Survivors include her daughter, Betsy R. (Jack) Thompson of Albion; 1 son, John F. (Laura) Ross of Columbia City; 11 grandchildren; 22 great grandchildren; 14 great great grandchildren.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Francis W. Ross; daughter, Mary Joan Boschet; brother, Carlos J. Birkhold; and sister, Margaret May.
Visitation will be held Friday, February 17, 2012 from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. at DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home, 600 Countryside Drive, Columbia City. Funeral service will immediately follow calling Friday at 2:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Burial will follow at South Park (Annex) Cemetery, Columbia City. Memorial gifts may be given in memory of Mrs. Ross to Grace Lutheran Church. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Please visit www.demoneygrimes.com to send family condolences or sign the guest register book.

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Argyle E. Beard, 88, of rural Columbia City, went to be with our Lord at 12:50 a.m. Sunday, February 12, 2012 at Miller's Merry Manor.
He was born November 14, 1923 in Richland Township, Whitley County a son of Dalton and Ruth (Coyle) Beard. He completed his education at Larwill High School with the Class of 1942.
He was a farmer, truck driver, custodian at Thorncreek Township School from 1952 until 1965, delivery and service man for Skelgas from 1965 until 1982 when he retired. He then delivered flowers for Carriage House Flowers for many years.
His memberships include Columbia City United Methodist Church, Etna Men's Breakfast Club, Larwill Due Guard Lodge #278 Free & Accepted Masons, Scottish Rite, Whitley County 4-H Ag Museum, former Thorncreek Township Advisory Board member and Thorncreek Township 4-H Leader for many years.
Surviving relatives include his wife of 67 years, Betty; two daughters, Karen (Lloyd) Spichiger of Bluffton and Barbara (James) Lambert of Fort Wayne; five wonderful grandchildren, Ana Maria (Michael) Dawson, Amy Jo Marlow, Michael (Heather) Marlow, Derek Floyd and Darren (Shaye) Floyd; three great grandchildren, Cody & Taylor Floyd and Robert Dawson with a great granddaughter expected in March; and a sister, Charlene Metcalf of Columbia City.
He was preceded in death by a son, Eugene Beard; a grandson, Jason Floyd; a son-in-law, James Floyd; and a brother, Marion Beard.
The funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Thursday at Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City The burial will be in South Park Annex Cemetery. The visitation will also be from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home with a Masonic service at 8 p.m. Wednesday.
Preferred memorials are to Columbia City United Methodist Church or American Lung Association.

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Joseph D. Shaffer, 80, of rural Columbia City, passed away peacefully at 11:23 p.m. Saturday, February 11, 2012 at his home with his family at his side.
Joe was a veteran from the German occupation of the Korean War. 
He is a retired Tool & Die Maker for Tokhiem Corporation after 44 years and continued farming.
Joe is survived by his devoted and loving wife of 61 years Stella, four daughters, Penny Shaffer, Pam (Carl) Emley, Paula (Ellis) Sturgill and Polly (David) Cox; six grandchildren; two great grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by a granddaughter, Autumn.
The funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday at Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City with one hour of visitation prior to service. The burial will be in South Whitley Cemetery. The visitation will also be from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home.
Preferred memorials are to Parkview Home Health & Hospice.

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Jessie I. Brandom, 99, of rural Columbia City died at 11:55 p.m. Tuesday, February 14, 2012 at Covington Manor, Fort Wayne where she had been a resident since February 2004.
She was born February 8, 1913 in Fort Wayne, Indiana a daughter of David Henry and Anna Ethel (Zumbrum) McCoy. Her formative years were spent in the Arcola area. She graduated from Arcola High School.
Following her graduation, she worked for General Electric, Fort Wayne.
On November 11, 1939 she was united in marriage to John Clifford Brandom, Sr. They made their home on a farm in Lake Twp., Allen County. Mr. Brandom died May 18, 1983.
A homemaker, she also belonged to the Arcola Fire Department Auxiliary, Fraternal Order of Eagles and Lake Chapel United Methodist Church.
Surviving relatives include a son, John C. (Janice) Brandom, Jr., Fort Wayne and a daughter, Janice Brandom of Columbia City; a step-son, Larry (Beverly) Brandom, Columbia City; several grandchildren and several great grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by a daughter, Betty Boardman; two brothers, Wilbur “Bud” McCoy, Robert McCoy; a sister, Helen Leffers and a step-daughter, Marilyn Rickhart.
The funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday at Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City. Burial will be in the Eel River Cemetery. Visitation will be 3:00 to 7:00 p.m. Friday at the funeral home.
Preferred memorials are to Lake Chapel United Methodist Church or Shriners’ Hospitals for Children.

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Nadean May Zorger, 84, of Huntington and formerly of South Whitley,  passed away at 3:25 p.m. Thursday, February 9, 2012 at Parkview Hospital, Fort Wayne. She was born on August 24, 1927 in Jefferson Township, Whitley County,  the daughter of Russell F. and Beulah A. (Shroyer) Taylor.   She spent her childhood in Jefferson Township graduating from Jefferson Center High School with the Class of 1945. She married Marvin Leo “Tim” Zorger on October  5, 1947 at Jefferson Chapel United Methodist Church. She lived at her South Whitley home from 1966 until 2009 when she moved into Huntington. She had been employed at Chamberlain Products, South Whitley and most recently as a secretary at Northeastern REMC. She was a member of Clear Creek Church, Huntington County, where she was the pianist. She also was a member of the Whitley County Homemaker’s Club and The Lunch Bunch.   Survivors include her 3 sons, Steve L. (Nancy) Zorger, North Manchester, Terry L. (Janice) Zorger, Urbana,  and Kim L. (Reida) Zorger, Columbia City; 4 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren; 1 brother, Robert (Helen ) Taylor, Columbia City. She is preceded in death by her parents and husband, Marvin Leo “Tim” Zorger.   Visitation will be held on Tuesday, February 14, 2012 from 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. at DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home, 600 Countryside Drive, Columbia City. Funeral service immediately following  at 2:00 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home with Sharon Brockhaus, Certified Funeral Celebrant, officiating. Burial will be at South Whitley Cemetery, South Whitley. Memorial gifts may be given in Mrs. Zorger’s memory to the American Cancer Society.  Envelopes will be available at the funeral home. To send a condolence, please log onto www.demoneygrimes.com.  

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Helen L. Clark, 85, of Fort Wayne, IN passed away at 10:44 a.m. Wednesday, February 8, 2012 at Visiting Nurse and Hospice Home, Fort Wayne, IN.
Born July 13, 1926 in Fort Wayne, she was the daughter of Paul Hiler and Erma Irene (Ferrell) Shroyer.
In 1937, she and her family moved from Fort Wayne to Jefferson Township, Whitley County. She graduated from Jefferson Township School, and while a senior, completed her training at Betty Jean Lefever's Beauty School to become a professional beautician. On March 15, 1947 she married Julian W. Clark in Columbia City. After living in Fort Wayne the first five years of their marriage, she and Mr. Clark moved to Jefferson Township. During the 1940's and 1950's, she managed Henry's Beauty Shop. For eight years, she worked as a cook at Jefferson Center School. Much of her life was spent working with young people as a volunteer for organizations such as Brownies, Girl Scouts and 4-H. For many years, she contributed to the local Coats for Kids drive by knitting hats and gloves.  
She is survived by her daughters, Cheryl (Michael) Serafini of Fort Wayne and Barbara (Steven L.) Butcher of New Haven; 4 grandchildren and 1 great-grandchild; sister, Ilene Richardson of Columbia City; brother, Norman (Shirley) Shroyer of Phoenix, AZ. Her extended family includes daughters, Gloria (Randy) Bard of Logansport and Karen Rosbaugh of Columbia City; son, Mike Gephart of Yuma, AZ; 5 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Julian W. Clark who died January 24, 1994, and an infant brother, Paul Shroyer, Jr., who died at birth.
Visitation is Sunday, February 12, 2012 from 2-4 & 6-8 p.m. at DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home, 600 Countryside Drive, Columbia City. Funeral service is Monday, February 13, 2012 at 10 a.m. at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Jefferson Chapel (Sand Bank) Cemetery, Columbia City. Memorials may be given in Mrs. Clark's memory to Visiting Nurse & Hospice Home. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.

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Paul Herron, 85, of Columbia City, IN passed away at 11:52 a.m. Wednesday, February 8, 2012 at Lutheran Hospital of Indiana, Fort Wayne.
He was born on July 11, 1926 in Whitley County, the son of Earl and Alice (Himman) Herron.
He graduated from Coesse High School with the Class of 1944 and then entered the United States Army serving during WWII from 1945-1946. On March 26, 1950 he married Norma U. Comer at Mt. Zion Lutheran Church, Nine Mile. He has spent his entire lifetime in Whitley County residing at his present home since 1999. Paul was a general farmer, raising potatoes and onions, and also worked as a machine set up person for 18 years at PTG, retiring in 1999. His memberships include, Hope Lutheran Church, Columbia City American Legion Post #98, Whitley County Farm Bureau. He served for many years on the Union Township Volunteer Fire Department.
He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Norma U. Herron, Columbia City; 3 children, David (Debra) Herron, Columbia City, Sarah "Sally" (Stan) Smith, Chugiak, AK and James (Kathaleen) Herron, Columbia City; 4 grandchildren; 2 great grandchildren; 4 step grandchildren; and 2 sisters, Donna (Richard) Bolinger and Patricia (Robert) Johnson, both of Columbia City. He is preceded in death by his parents, 1 brother, Thomas Herron, 2 sisters, Willodene Kneller and Coral Erdly and 2 daughters, Mary Herron and Lydia Fisher.
Visitation will be held on Sunday, February 12, 2012 from 2-6:00 p.m. at DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home, 600 Countryside Drive, Columbia City. A Volunteer Fireman's Memorial Service will be conducted at 6:00 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home. Funeral service will be held on Monday, February 13, 2012 at 1:00 p.m. at the funeral home with Pastor Judy Follis of Hope Lutheran Church and Pastor Steve Johnson of Oak Grove Church of God officiating. Burial will follow at Greenlawn Memorial Park, Fort Wayne, with graveside military rites presented by the Whitley County Korean War Veterans Honor Guard. Memorial bequests may be given in Mr. Herron's memory to Hope Lutheran Church or the American Lung Association. Envelopes will be available through the funeral home.

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Darwin E. Grunawalt, 57, of Columbia City, IN passed away at 5:58 a.m. Friday, February 3, 2012 at Parkview Whitley Hospital, Columbia City. He was born on September 7, 1954 in Garrett, IN the son of Otis and Lessie (Hall) Grunawalt.
A lifetime Columbia City resident, he attended Columbia City Joint High School. He retired this year, after 25 years of service, with Dana Weatherhead Corporation, Syracuse.
On May 24, 2003 he married Dawn E. Palmer in Columbia City. Darwin enjoyed working with wood, playing darts, watching the Chicago Bears, riding his Harley Davidson, spending time outdoors and cheering for NASCAR race car driver, Ryan Newman.  
He is survived by his wife, Dawn E. Grunawalt, Columbia City; 1 son, Travis E. Grunawalt, Columbia City; 1 brother, Robert Grunawalt, Cincinnati, OH; 2 stepsons, Rick Foreman, Wyoming and Dustin Foreman, Columbia City; 1 stepdaughter, Nicki Baker, Columbia City; and 9 grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents.
Visitation will be held from 5-7:30 p.m. Wednesday, February 8, 2012 at DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home, 600 Countryside Drive, Columbia City. A Celebration of Life service will begin at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home with Sharon Brockhaus, Certified Funeral Celebrant, officiating. Burial will be Thursday, February 9, 2012 at 10 a.m. at Nolt Cemetery, Columbia City. Darwin chose to help others through tissue and organ donation. Memorial bequests may be given in Mr. Grunawalt's memory to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Please visit www.demoneygrimes.com to send family condolences.

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John L. Fries, 83, of Columbia City, passed away at 5:40 p.m. Sunday, February 5, 2012 at Parkview Whitley Hospital where he was admitted Saturday evening.
He was born December 7, 1928 in Fort Wayne, Indiana a son of Leo J. and Ella Marie (Perry) Fries. His formative years were spent in Columbia City and Thorncreek Township, Whitley County. He graduated from Columbia City High School in 1947, from Indiana University with a Bachelor degree in Education in 1953 and from Indiana University with a Masters degree in Education in 1962.
In 1953 he was inducted in the United States Army, serving in the Korean War. He was honorably discharged February 1955.
He began his teaching career at Pendleton Elementary School. From 1956-1957 he served as a teacher and the principal at McLallen School. In 1957 he began teaching at Sunnymede School, becoming the principal in 1962 until the school’s closing in 1984. He then served as principal at Monroeville School from 1984 until 1994. In 1994 he retired as interim Director of Elementary Education of East Allen County Schools. He was an agent for Ohio State Life Insurance.
On May 27, 1967 he was united in marriage to Mary Louise Denzel. They have always made their home in Columbia City.
He was a member of St. Paul of the Cross Catholic Church, American Legion Post #98, charter member of Whitley County Korean War Veterans Honor Guard, Indiana University Alumni, Allen County and Regional Spelling Bee Committee and Whitley County Historical Society where he served as a past board member. He served as director and assistant director of Camp Whitley for many years.
His professional memberships included National, State and local Associations of Elementary and Middle School Principals, Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development and Indiana Reading Association. He was a life member of Parent Teacher Organization and Phi Delta Kappa. He was named Distinguished Principal of District 4 of the Indiana Association of Elementary and Middle School Principals.
John enjoyed sports, cards, local dinners, square dancing and time with his family.
Surviving relatives include his wife, Mary Lou; two children, Stephen Fries of Syracuse and Mary Catherine (Gregg) Palmer of Decatur; a granddaughter, Olivia Palmer; two brothers, Paul (Nancy) Fries of Columbia City and Dr. George (Nancy) Fries of Marion; a sister, Genevieve Mason of Huntington; and former wife, Margaret Ann Wait of North Syracuse NY.
He was preceded in death by two children, Stephanie Anne Fries and David Andrew Fries; and four sisters, Catherine Fries, Rosella Wait, Margaret Fries and Helen Murphy.
The funeral mass will be held at 10:30 a.m. Thursday at St. Paul of the Cross, 315 S. Line Street, Columbia City with visitation after 9:30 a.m. Thursday at the church.
The burial will be in Greenhill Cemetery with military honors provided by the Whitley County Korean War Veterans Honor Guard.
The visitation will be from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City. A prayer service will be held at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home.
Preferred memorials are to St. Paul of the Cross Catholic Church or Whitley County Community Foundation.

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Updated information has been provided. 

Joel Kenneth Kimmel, Sr., age 69, formerly of Columbia City, died Tuesday, January 24, 2012, at his home in Peoria, Arizona.
Born January 8, 1943, he was the son of Lois L. (Spaw) and Charles R. Kimmel in Fort Wayne, IN.
A Vietnam veteran, he served in the U.S. Marine Corps two tours during his 13 years of service from 1960-1973.  He worked as a lathe operator at Deister Machine Company in Fort Wayne where he retired in 2001. Mr. Kimmel spent most of his life in Fort Wayne and Columbia City until moving to Arizona in 2002.  His first marriage was to Sharon L. Buckles on August 31, 1965 in Indiana.  His second marriage was to Barbara (Haver) Bretall, January 11, 2002, in Arizona.
He is survived by his wife; a son, Joel (Ruth) Kimmel, Jr. and a daughter, Robin (Matthew) Herendeen, both of Columbia City; a step-daughter, Dionda Bretall; two step-sons, Douglas and James Bretall, all of Arizona; 10 grandchildren, (6 in Columbia City and 4 in Arizona).  Also surviving is a sister, Amerida (Dan) Crow of St. Joe and a brother, Lonney (Bernie) Kimmel of Fort Wayne.  He was preceded in death by his parents, a sister, Sharon Koester and two brothers, Irvin and Lynn Kimmel.
A Celebration of Life Gathering will be held Saturday, February 11, 2012 at 1 p.m. at DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home, Columbia City. Military honors will be presented by the Churubusco American Legion Post#157.  Please visit www.demoneygrimes.com to send family condolences.

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Clela Kneller Richard, 94, of Tulsa, Oklahoma, died Wednesday, February 1, 2012 in the Southcrest Hospital.
She was born February 22, 1917 in Washington Township, Whitley County a daughter of Sherman L. and Bertha H. (Luecke) Kneller. Her formative years were spent in Washington Township. She graduated from Washington Center High School.
While living in Indiana, she was employed with L.M. Berry selling yellow pages advertising. She retired in 1992 from Jenks Public Schools in Tulsa.
Surviving relatives include two daughters, Brenda (Larry) Mauzy and Marsha (Spike) Cochran, both of Tulsa, Oklahoma; six grandchildren; 15 great grandchildren; four great great grandchildren; and Paul Kneller of Columbia City.
She was preceded in death by three brothers, George Kneller, Ray Kneller and Sherman W. Kneller.
The graveside service will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday at Hillcrest Cemetery, Pierceton. There will be no visitation.
Arrangements are being completed by Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City.

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