James Adams

James Adams, a junior in Wabash college, died at the home of Mrs. Houser on South Washington street, Thursday at noon of peritonitis at the age of 23 years. The deceased's home was at Cutler, near Logansport to which place his remains were shipped yesterday accompanied by the members of his class. Mr. Adams' death was very sudden and unfortunately none of his relatives were with him at the time of his death.
Crawfordsville Review, Montgomery County, IN; 11 June 1892, p. 5
Contributed by Karen Zach


Mrs. Shirley Ann Alles

Shirley Ann Alles, 84, of Waterloo died Saturday, January 13, 2018, at Vibra Hospital in Fort Wayne. There will be no services conducted. Memorials may be directed to the education fund for her great granddaughter, Piper Farmer, in care of Melissa Allen.
Feller & Clark Funeral Home, DeKalb County, IN; online obit (accessed 1/16/2018)


George Armstrong

GEORGE ARMSTRONG
A farmer by the name of Armstrong was killed by lightning at his home near Colfax during a storm yesterday afternoon. He had taken shelter under a tree in the field where he was plowing, and was found dead in the fence corner after the storm.
Crawfordsville Review, Montgomery County, IN; 11 June 1892, p. 5
Contributed by Karen Zach


Gene L. Baker

Gene L. Baker, 47, of Fort Wayne died yesterday at his sister's home. The Fort Wayne native was former administrave director of the Heart Center at Hospital of the Good Samaritan in Los Angeles for 13 years, former owner of Covington House of Flowers 1970-1973, and a veteran of the Army. Surviving are his mother, Ursula Redding of Huntington; and sister, Sharon K. Heck of Garrett. Calling is 5-9 p.m. tomorrow in Elzey & Haggard Home for Funerals, 6810 Old Trail Road, where there are no services. Burial will be in Covington Memorial Gardens. Preferred Memorials are gifts to Hospice of Allen County.
Fort Wayne News-Sentinel (IN); Wednesday, May 18, 1994, p. 8A
Contributed by Scott Bowmar


Jody Lynn (Farrell) Baker

Jody Lynn Baker, 26, was killed in a car accident. Mrs. Baker, born in Fort Wayne, was a receptionist at Duemling Clinic. Surviving are her husband, Mark Alan Baker; a daughter, Brandy Lyn, at home; a son, Benjamine Lee, also at home; her father and stepmother, Williard and Leona Farrell of Quincy, Mich.; her mother and stepfather, Rosella and Walter Harter of Fort Wayne; and two sisters, Deborah Allen of Fort Wayne and Becky Dorenkott of Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Friends may call from 6 to 9 pm today at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are gifts to the Jody Baker Memorial. Burial will be in Prairie Grove Cemetery.
Fort Wayne Journal Gazette (IN); October 19, 1982
Contributed by Scott Bowmar


Pamela J. (Frech) Baker

Pamela J. Baker, 57, of Leo, died Tuesday, Feb. 9, 2010, 12:15 a.m., at Parkview Hospital on Randallia Drive. Born Nov. 21, 1952, in Fort Wayne, she was the daughter of Calvin J. Frech and Delores J. (Krumbigel) Frech of Acworth, Ga. She was self-employed and a member of Leo United Methodist Church. Also surviving are three children, Phil J (Lyn) Baker of Fort Wayne, Peter J. Baker of Ft. Myers, Fla. and Phadrien J. Baker of Fort Wayne; brother, Steven J. (Barb) Frech of Kennesaw, Ga.; four grandchildren; and one great-grandchild. Funeral service is 11 a.m. Friday at Leo United Methodist Church, with calling one hour prior. Pastor David Heim officiating. Preferred memorials to Leo United Methodist Church.
Fort Wayne Journal Gazette (IN); Wednesday, February 10, 2010, p. 3C
Contributed by Scott Bowmar


Peter Jamin Baker

Peter Jamin Baker, 36, of Fort Myers, passed away Sunday, November 27, 2011. Peter was a loving father, brother, uncle and best friend. He was a loving father to Madison; brother to Philjon and Phadrien; brother in law, Corey; sister in law, Lynn; grandson of Betty Ayers and Dee Frech; nephew of Dave Baker, Steve & Barb Frech and Susan; uncle of John Luke Baker, Brittany Baker and Chase Baker; great uncle to Cori Baker and best friend "Uncle" Dickie. Peter is now at rest with his loving father, Phillip Sr.; mother, Pamela and grandfathers, Cal and Willis. He will never be forgotten. Our thoughts will always be with you. We love you.
Harvey-Engelhardt Funeral Home, 1600 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers, FL 33907
Contributed by Scott Bowmar


Philip J. Baker

Philip J. Baker, 62, of Fort Myers, passed away September 25th. Phil was a decorated Viet Nam veteran. Known as "Pops" to friends and family, he was a loving father of Peter, Philip II and Phadrien. Also survived by 4 granchildren; 1 great grandchild; mother, Betty Ruth Ayers and brother, David. A celebration of Pops life will be held on Thursday, September 30th from 7-9 pm at Porky's Restaurant, 18011 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers, FL 33908. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society.
Fort Myers News-Press (FL); September 29, 2010
Contributed by Scott Bowmar


William D. Baker

Sad Ending of Vacation - Heart Attack Is Fatal To Roanoke Man
William D. Baker, 42, of Roanoke, died following a heart attack which he suffered while bathing on the south side of Crooked lake late Sunday afternoon. Stricken while in the water Baker had been rescued by his fourteen-year-old son, and artificial respiration was started by a companion, Stanly Moore, 14, a member of Boy Scout Troop 39 of Haviland, Ohio. The rescue squad from the Angola Fire Department was summoned and Baker was further revived by means of a resuscitator. Dr. Knight L. Kissinger was also summoned and advised that Baker be taken to a hospital for further treatment and observation, and rode with teh stricken man to the Elmhurst hospital where Baker died in the ambulance before removal. Baker's body was taken to the Klink Funeral Home. A coroner's autopsy Monday revealed an enlarged heart, and death was pronounced due to coronary occlusion. The baody was taken to the Elzey Home for Funerals in Waynedale, where services were held at 1:00 p.m. today with the Rev. Harold Mishler officiating. Burial was in the Covington Memorial Gardens. Survivors include his wife; a son, Gene; a daughter, Sharon; both at home; a brother, Wayne, Rte. 1, Hoagland; five sisters, Mrs Mabel Alcott, Pleasant Lake, Mrs. Walter Dreyer, St. Joe Center Road, Mrs. Genevieve Kohle, Syracuse, and Mrs. Harold Thompson, Fort Wayne. Baker was emplyed at Fort Wayne Metals, Inc. He was a member of the Kiwanis club at Baer Field, Moose Lodge at Huntington and the Waynedale Men's association. State Police, Steuben county sheriff deputies and Conservation Department officers were summoned to the lake to give any needed assistance. Investigating officers stated that the Baker family were enjoying a vacation at the lake and that Mr. Baker and the two children were in bathing within a short time after eating dinner. Baker had signaled to his wife to don her bathing suit and join them, but she had not gone into the water when her husband was stricken. Baker collapsed soon after entering the water and was dragged out by his son. An early report of his death by drowning was discredited by examing physicians.
Steuben Republican, Angola, Indiana; Wednesday, August 24, 1960
Contributed by Scott Bowmar


Willis L. Baker

Willis L. Baker, 85, of Columbia City, died at 3:20 p.m. Sunday, May 16, 2010, at The Oaks Living Center where he had been a resident since January 1999. He was born May 17, 1924 in Mark Center, Ohio, a son of William Roy and Lottie (Goller) Baker. He graduated from Mark Center High School. During World War II he served in the United States Navy Air Corps. He was employed at General Elictric in Fort Wayne, district manager for American Motors in Chicago, owned & operated a printing shope in Toledo, Ohio and retired from Day Internation in Three Rivers, Michigan. Surviving relatives include two sons and a daughter, David C. Baker of TriLakes, Phillip Baker of Fort Myers, FL and Susan Beaty; three grandchildren ; three great grandchildren; and a great great granddaughter. The funeral service will be held at 12 Noon Wednesday at Smith and Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City with an hour of visitation prior to the service at the funeral home. The burial will be in South Park Annex Cemetery. Preferred memorials are to Juvenile Diabetes Foundation.
Smith & Sons Funeral Home, 207 North Main Street, Columbia City, IN 46725
Contributed by Scott Bowmar


Thomas J. Beckwick and wife

Elkhart, Ind., Jan 16 - Last evening Thomas J. Beckwick shot and killed his wife and then committed suicide. Beckwick had forbidden his wife and stepdaughter to attend a church entertainment. The women were dressing when Beckwick rushed into their room, fired three shots at his wife, two of which took effect and then going into the parlor, sent a bullet through his head.
Greencastle Banner & Times, Putnam County, IN; 18 January 1895, p. 3
Contributed by Karen Zach


Gladys N. (Hamrick) Billington

Gladys N. Billington, 80, a Fort Wayne resident since 1962, and a native of Willshire, Ohio, died on Friday in Parkview Memorial Hospital, Fort Wayne. Among survivors are her husband; one daughter; one son; three brothers including Earl Hamrick, Hoagland; and one sister, Velma Fryback, Decatur. Funeral services were this morning, with burial in Lindenwood Cemetery, Fort Wayne.
Decatur Daily Democrat, Adams County, Indiana; Mon. Nov. 22, 1993
Contributed by Karin King


Artie May Bingham

Artie May, the infant daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Nathan Bingham, died Thursday evening of meningitis. The funeral took place today.
Fort Wayne News, Allen County, Indiana; Friday, Aug. 23, 1901
Contributed by Karin King


Elizabeth Helen Birbeck

FUNERAL ANNOUNCEMENT
Elizabeth Helen Birbeck - 40 West Dewald street, 2 p.m. Wednesday, the Rev. H. B. Hostetter. Lindenwood cemetery.
Fort Wayne News & Sentinel, Allen County, Indiana; June 18, 1918
Contributed by Karin King


William Birbeck

William Birbeck, aged 74 years, a retired Wabash railroad shop machinist, died at 4:50 o'clock Thursday afternoon at his home, 407 West Dewald street, of hardening of the arteries. He had been in ill health for three years. Mr. Birbeck was born in Manchester, Eng. He had lived in the United States since 1865 and in Fort Wayne since 1871. For 48 years he had worked as a machinist. Surviving are the wife and two children, Mrs. R. L. Stonecifer, of Peru, Ind., and W. D. Birbeck, of St. Louis, Mo.; a brother, Edward Birbeck, and a sister, Miss Ada Birbeck, both of Chicago. Other relatives remain in England. Funeral services will be held at the home Monday afternoon at 2 o'clock with the Rev. H. B. Hostetter officiating. Burial in Lindenwood cemetery.
News Sentinel, Allen County, Indiana; Friday, July 29, 1921
Contributed by Karin King


Herman T. Birchman

Herman T. Birchman, the thirteen-days-old son of Mr. and Mrs. John E. Birchman, who reside a short distance north of the city, died Tuesday of exhaustion. The funeral will be held Thursday at 2 o'clock at the residence. The burial will take place at Lindenwood cemetery.
Fort Wayne News, Allen County, Indiana; Wed., Aug. 3, 1904
Contributed by Karin King


Mrs. Peter A. Blue

Warsaw, Ind., May 30 - Mrs. Peter A. Blue died at her home in Montone, after a severillness of several months. Mrs. Blue, who was 71 years of age, had been a sufferer from a cancer of the bowels. She had resided in Mentone for several years and was one of its most highly respected citizens. She was a member of the Progressive Brethren church. Besides a husband she is survived by six daughters and three sons.
Fort Wayne News-Sentinel, Allen County, Indiana; Wed., May 30, 1914
Contributed by Scott Bowmar


Peter A. Blue

Was the Father of Twelve
Warsaw, Ind., April 2 - Peter A. Blue, father of Lindsay Blue, of Warsaw, passed away Wednesday noon at his home in Menotone. He was 77 years of age ahd his death was due to complications resulting from his advanced years. He had been ill for six weeks. Mr. Blue was the father of twelve children, nine of whom are living. He also leaves a widow. At one time Mr. Blue resided on a farm east of Sevastopol and near Burket. The funeral service will be held Saturday morning.
Fort Wayne Weekly Sentinel, Allen County, Indiana; Wed., April 2, 1915
Contributed by Scott Bowmar


Peter Booneburg's son

Muncie, Ind., May 19 - A 4-year-old son of Peter Booneburg of this city, succeeded in getting hold of a loaded gun and blew into the muzzle to see if it was loaded. The discharge tore off his head.
Crawfordsville Weekly Journal, Montgomery County, IN; 21 May 1892
Contributed by Karen Zach


Karla McGee Bottorff

Charleston, Ind Jan 14 - Saturday Dr. Charles Bottorff's little son gave his sister, who was sick, a deadly poison while playing doctor. Shortly afterward the doctor who keeps a drugstore, came in and found the girl in convulsions. The boy told his father what he had done but after replacing the bottle in the prescription case was unable to again find it. The child lingering in intense agony for several hours before death relieved it.
[Note: Karla McGee Bottorff (15 July 1894 - 11 Jan 1895) d/o Charles Monroe and Katharine Piatt Bottorff]
Greencastle Banner & Times, Putnam County, IN; 18 January 1895, p. 3
Contributed by Karen Zach


Charles W. "Babe" Bowmar

Garrett - Charles W. "Babe" Bowmar, 88, a former Garrett resident, died Saturday, Sept. 25, 2004, at 11:20 p.m. in Betz Nursing Home of Auburn. Mr. Bowmar lived in Garrett before moving to Auburn 3 1/2 years ago. He was an engineer of the B&O Railroad for 41 years, retiring in 1981. A US Navy veteran of World War II, he was a member of the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars and Eagles in Garrett. He was born June 23, 1916, in Garrett, the son of Charles E. and Emma A. (Hiigli) Bowmar. On Oct. 6, 1951, in Garrett, he married Helen L. Leeson. She preceded him in death Jan. 26, 2004. Surviving are a son and daughter-in-law, Randy and Melinda Bowmar of Fort Wayne; a brother, Lawrence R. "Cotton" Bowmar of Augurn; and a sister, Doris Habig of Auburn. In addition to his wife and parents, he was precede in death by a brother, Gerald J. Bowmar, and a sister, Dorothy Musselman. Services will be Wednesday at 1:30 in Thomas Funeral Home, 1277 C.R. 56, Garrett, with Lloyd Mealer officiating. Burial will be in Christian Union Cemetery of Garrett, with military graveside services by the Garrett posts of the American Legion & VFW. Calling will be Tuesday from 4-8 p.m. in the funeral home. Memorials to the Alzheimer's Association. Condolences may be sent to condolencethomas@skynet.net.
Evening Star, Indiana; Sept. 27, 2004
Contributed by Scott Bowmar


W. C. Breaks

North Manchester, Jan. 25 - W. C. Breaks, 74, who came to the Estelle Peabody Memorial Home here from Crawfordsville in 1938, died suddenly of a heart attack yesterday at the home. Surviving are the widow, also a resident of the home; one son, Richard Dewey Breaks of Minneapolis, Minn., and one daughter, Mrs. Roy Hall of Fort Wayne. Funeral services will be held Friday morning at the home with Rev. Hugh Ronald, superintendent, officiating. Burial will be at Crawfordsville.
Fort Wayne Journal Gazette (IN); January 26, 1940


Earl Brown

Earl Brown of Terre Haute, 11 years old, was drowned while bathing in the Wabash River.
Greencastle Banner-Times, Putnam County, IN; 3 July 1896
Contributed by Karen Zach


Ronald M. Byer

Funeral services for Ronald M. Byer, 58, Fort Wayne, will be held at 1 p.m. Wednesday in D.O. McComb & Sons Lakeside Park Funeral Home, Fort Wayne. He died Saturday in the Veterans Administration Hospital. He was a native of Pleasant Mills and was a construction worker before retiring in 1973 because of illness. He was a veteran of World War 11 and a member of David Parrish Post 296, American Legion. Surviving are his wife, Ruth; one daughter, Mrs. Sandy Linthicum, Decatur; two sons, Terry, Fort Wayne, and James Berne; four sisters, Mrs. Doris Strayer, Fort Wayne; Mrs. Lucile Foor, Monroe; Ethel Byer, Van Wert, O., and Mrs. Gladys Kuhn, Ohio City, O.; and five brothers, Elvin [sic], Beryl, Veryl and Don, all of Fort Wayne, and Elvin [sic], Willshisre, O. Friends may call at the funeral home from 2 to 5 and 7 to 9 today. Graveside rites will be at 2:30 p.m. Wednesday in Veterans Administration Cemetery, Marion.
Decatur Daily Democrat, Adams County, Indiana; Monday, July 15, 1975
Contributed by Janice Vasilovski


Aaron Byrer

Aaron Byrer, 82, a former resident of the Clunette vicinity, died at his home here late last night after an illness of several months. He was born in Harrisburg, Pa., but spent most of his lifetime near Clunette. He moved to Warsaw four years ago. Surviving are a son, Ernest Byrer, at home; two daughters, Lois at home and Mrs. Avis Goshert of Fort Wayne, and three brothers, Z. T. Byrer of Leesburg, Clayton Byrer of Nappanee and H. B. Byrer of Fort Wayne. The funeral services will be held Saturday at 2:30 o'clock at the Clunette U. B. Church. Burial will be in Stony Point Cemetery.
Fort Wayne Journal Gazette (IN); January 26, 1940


Mrs. Emma Campfield

Warsaw, Jan. 23 - Mrs. Emma Campfield, 82, died this afternoon at her home here following an illness of several years. She had been almost totally blind for a number of years. A brother, Joseph Campfield, with whom she resided, survives.
Fort Wayne Journal Gazette (IN); January 24, 1940


Rev. Jasper Catterson

Rockville - Rev. Jasper Catterson, 69, minister at the Church of the Nazarene at Annapolis near here, died at 9 p.m. Tuesday at Union Hospital in Terre Haute. He was born May 23, 1896 in Parke County to Robert and Mary Haggy Catterson. Survivors include his wife, Sylvia (Crowder); a son, Lester of Clinton; two daughters, Mrs. Dorothy Reisinger of Rockville and Mrs. Hester Waterstradt of Danville, Ill; a sister, Mrs. Anna Lawson of Covington; 8 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren. Services will be at 2 p.m. Friday at Barnes Mortuary in Rockville. Rev. C. Syler will officiate. Burial will be in Memory Garden Cemetery. Friends may call at the funeral home after 2 p.m. Thursday.
Crawfordsville Journal Review, Montgomery County, IN; 9-30-1965, p 4
Contributed by Karen Zach


Garland W. Clifton

Garland W. Clifton, 60, of Wren, died at 4:25 a.m. today in Adams County Memorial Hospital, Decatur, where he had been a patient for the past 16 days. He had been in ill health for several years. Born Feb 7, 1915 in Van Wert County, he was the son of Corval and Wilma (Agler) Clifton. He was a former employee of the US Rubber Company in Fort Wayne and Union Sherburn Company and was a member of United Brethren Church of Wren. Survivors include his widow, the former Marilyn Buffenbarger; 2 sons, Jerry W. of Rt. 1 Payne and Richard of Fort Wayne; 2 daughters, Mrs. Ronald (Sandra) Mefferd, of Rt. 1 Haviland, and Teresa, at home; a sister, Mrs. Jack (Imogene) Irwin of Rt. 2 Decatur, 5 brothers, Doral (Bud) of Van Wert, Devon of Decatur, Ronald, Donald and Webster all of Wren and 8 grandchildren. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Friday in the Wren United Brethren Church with the Rev. George Rhodifer officiating.
[Buried Woodland Union Cem., Van Wert, Van Wert County, OH]
Decatur Daily Democrat, Adams County, Indiana; Monday, July 16, 1975
Contributed by Janice Vasilovski


Joseph B. Cloud

Elkhart, Ind., Jan 16 - Joseph B. Cloud, aged 70, a prosperous and pioneer farmer living four miles north of this city had a quarrel with his son Joseph, Jr. on New Year's Day about cutting some wood. During the altercation, the son struck the old man upon the head with an ax, causing concussion of the brain which resulted in his death yesterday. The son is insane and has been taken into custody.
Greencastle Banner & Times, Putnam County, IN; 18 January 1895, p. 3
Contributed by Karen Zach


Fern (Davis) Cozad

Mrs. Peachie Fortney of Decatur has received word of the death of a sister, Fern Davis Cozad, who died at the home of another sister, Mrs. Floyd (Harriet) Cole, in Florida. Fern was first married to Harlon Heath of Bobo who died in 1939 and in 1964 married Frank A. Cozad, who died in January of 1975. Fern lived most of her life in Akron, O., and celebrated her 80th birthday last month. Funeral services and burial will be in Akron.
Decatur Daily Democrat, Adams County, Indiana; Monday, July 16, 1975
Contributed by Janice Vasilovski


Eva (Weesner) Daughtery

Wabash, Jan. 23 - Funeral services for Mrs. Eva Weesner Daughtery, 73, a lifelong resident here, will be held at 2 o'clock Thursday afternoon at the residence with Rev. Ware W. Wimberly of the First Presbyterian Church in charge. Mrs. Daughterty who had been ill for several weeks died early this morning at the Wabash County Hospital. She was the widow of Bernard Daughterty and is survived by one daughter, Marguerite at home, and two sisters, Mrs. O. E. Green of Indianapolis and Mrs. Hattie Ream of Memphis.
Fort Wayne Journal Gazette (IN); January 24, 1940


Benjamin R. (Ben) Davies

Benjamin R. (Ben) Davies, 75, of route 1, Vendocia, O., father of Mrs. Robert (Janice) Ross, Pleasant Mills, died unexpectedly at 5 p.m. Wednesday in Tiffin, O. Mr. Davies, a retired farmer, was a member of the Zion Presbyterian Church. He was a resident of York Township, Van Wert County, O., and was the son of Thomas B. and Sarah Anne Evans-Davies. He was married on Oct. 7, 1925, to Josephine Fissel who died Aug. 6, 1955. He married Ruella Lemuyon on Jan. 1, 1958 and she survives. Also surviving are two daughters, Mrs. Robert (Janice) Ross, Pleasant Mills; Mrs. R. G. (Mary Helen) Pauff, Yorktown; three stepdaughters, Mrs. Robert (Edith) Kruger, Celina, O.; Mrs. O.B. (Opal) Cisco, Lima, O.; Mrs. John (Betty) Nutt, Canton, O.; seven grandchildren; 12 step-grandchildren and 12 step-great-grandchildren. One daughter, Mrs. Ruth Ellen Feiger, preceded in death. One granddaughter also preceded her in death. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. (Ohio time) Saturday at eh Cowan & Son Funeral Home, Van Wert, with Rev. Von E. Giessler officiating. Burial will be in the Venedocia Cemetery. Friends may call at the funeral home after 2 p.m. (Ohio time) Friday.
Decatur Daily Democrat, Adams County, Indiana; Monday, July 24, 1975
Contributed by Janice Vasilovski


Rt. Rev. Msgr. John P. Durham

Durham Services Set for Today
Funeral services for Rt. Rev. Msgr. John P. Durham, vicar-general of the Fort Wayne Catholic Diocese, will be held this morning. The office of the dead will be read at 9:30 o'clock at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, followed by a solemn requiem high mass at 10 o'clock. Bishop John F. Noll will be celebrant of the high mass and will deliver the funeral sermon. Burial will be in the Catholic Cemetery.
Fort Wayne Journal Gazette (IN); January 26, 1940


Brent Allen Eash

Brent Allen Eash, beloved husband, father, grandfather, uncle, pastor, elder, farmer, musician, friend, and follower of Christ, died at home at 3 a.m. on Monday, January 8, 2018. He had been diagnosed with Lymphoma and Amyloidosis in 2014 and entered into hospice care in September 2017. He was cared for at home by his family until his death. Brent was born to Ted and Darlene Eash on July 17, 1959. He was preceded in death by his father, Ted. He is survived by his mother Darlene, siblings Christina (Jim) Bromley, Mark (Kathy) Eash, Wendy Eash, and Tim (Malinda) Eash, his wife Heidi, and children Audrey (Nestor Luna) Eash, Daniel (Andrei Regalado) Eash, Hannah (Philip) Eash-Gates, and Lauren (Mark) Eash Hershberger. Also surviving are six grandchildren, Alexis, Elian, Jonah, Natalie, Charlie, and Leo, and many beloved nieces and nephews. Brent and Heidi (nee Schenk) graduated together in the 1977 class of Elkhart Central High School. Later in life, he earned a Masters in Divinity from AMBS, taking extra classes in Hebrew and Greek because he so enjoyed developing the ability to study the scriptures in their original languages. Brent was a devoted follower of Jesus and cared deeply for people and the church. He served as elder at Prairie Street and Bonneyville Mennonite churches, as overseer/coach of several area congregations, as pastor at Shore Mennonite for thirteen years, on the board of various organizations related to the Mennonite Church, and in leadership of the IN-MI Church Conference. He counseled and mentored many. He was eager to heed the call to volunteer, teaching Sunday School and ESL classes for many years. While he relished the chance to make personal connections with people through various forms of ministry, caretaking of the land was also close to his heart. He was a lifetime farmer and cherished time spent in the fields dragging a plow, taking great pleasure in creating a perfectly straight furrow. Music was another passion, and he spent many years singing tenor with the Brandenburg Concert, a vocal ensemble based in Southern Michigan. Brent was a man of tremendous moral integrity and compassion. He has taught those who knew him much about forgiveness, the importance of relationship, and following through on commitment through hard work. He was a quiet and comforting presence in a catastrophe, a fountain of wit, and loved his grandchildren, as well as raisins in anything, sweet or savory. He will be tremendously missed. Memorial contributions may be made to Mennonite Central Committee, Mennonite Mission Network or Prairie Street Mennonite Church. Visitation will take place on February 9 from 4-8 p.m. and the 10th at 10:00 a.m., followed by a memorial service on the 10th at 11 a.m. All events will be held at Prairie Street Mennonite Church, 1316 Prairie Street in Elkhart. Miller-Stewart Funeral Home of Middlebury will be handling the arrangements.
Miller-Stewart Funeral Home, Middlebury, IN; online obit (accessed 1/9/2018)


Katie Mae Eash

Miss Katie Mae Eash
October 21, 1941 -- January 23, 2018
Katie Mae Eash, 76, of LaGrange, died at 9:20 pm, on Tuesday, January 23 at Parkview LaGrange Hospital. She was born on October 21, 1941, in LaGrange County, to Daniel J. and Polly (Schrock) Eash. Surviving are two sisters, Ada Miller of Shipshewana and Edna Schrock of Patriot, OH; sister-in-law, Alma Gingerich of Goshen. She was preceded in death by her parents; two sisters, Mabel Graber and Anna Eash; four brothers, Perry, Mahlon, Freeman, and Elmer Eash. She had worked at Arc Opportunities of LaGrange County and was a member of the Old Order Amish Church. Visitation will be after 2:00 pm on Thursday, January 25 and all day Friday, January 26 at the Christie Schlabach residence, 155 Union St., Shipshewana. Funeral services will be at 9:30 am on Saturday, January 27, also at the Christie Schlabach residence. Services will be conducted by Bishop Jerry Miller and the home ministers. Burial will be in Yoder Cemetery, Shipshewana.
Miller-Stewart Funeral Home, Middlebury, IN; online obit (accessed 1/24/2018)


Marcel L. Everhart

Marcel L. Everhart, 59, of Richmond, Virginia, a native of Monroe, died Thursday at a Richmond hospital. He was a brother of Sylvester Everhart of Decatur. He was a former resident of Monroe, Berne, Fort Wayne and Washington, D.C. Mr. Everhart was employed at the Coco-Cola Bottling Plant in Richmond for 30 years, working as sales and advertising manager. He was born May 26, 1916 in Monroe, the son of Abslom E. and Sarah Johnson-Everhart, and married Alma Morgan on Dec. 12, 1936. Survivors include the wife; one son, William Kent Everhart of Greensboro, NC.; one brother Sylvester Everhart of Decatur, and two grandchildren, Corey and Dawn Everhart. Mr. Everhart was a member of ht U.S. Army and served in World War 11. Funeral services will be held Monday at 1 p.m. at the Stratford Hills Methodist Church, with Rev. Leroy Young officiating. Burial will be in Richmond. Preferred memorials are to the American Cancer Society.
Decatur Daily Democrat, Adams County, Indiana; Monday, July 5, 1975
Contributed by Janice Vasilovski


Enoch Evans Farr

Warren, Jan. 25 - Enoch Evans Farr, 82, retired farmer, died last night at his home in Farrville, near here in Grant County, after a long illness. The wife died in 1939. Surviving are six children, Miss Jessie V. Farr, Los Angeles, Clyde A. and Ned W. Farr, Baton Rouge, La., J. E. Farr, Downer's Grove, Ill., Mrs. F. Ernestine Smith, Farrrville, and Enoch E. Farr, Jr., U.S. Navy, Honolulu; three brothers, Smiley Farr, Jr., Grant County, Fred Farr, Marion, and Charles Farr, Blackford County and five sisters, Mrs. Jennie Dillman and Mrs. Pearly Guinip, Grant County, Mrs. Mina H. Pulley, Marion, Mrs. Daisy Knight, Warren and Mrs. Ruby Good, Donna, Tex. Funeral services will be conducted at 1:30 o'clock Saturday afternoon at the Farrville Christian Church, Rev. John F. Farr of Frankfort officiating. Burial will be in Farrville.
Fort Wayne Journal Gazette (IN); January 26, 1940


Charles Faulhaber

Edon, O., Jan. 23 - Charles Faulhaber, 68, was found dead at his home, three miles north of here today, where he had lived alone. He died of a heart attack. The body was not discovered for six hours. His wife died in 1937 under similar circumstances. Surviving are two children, Eleanor and Kenneth Faulhaber.
Fort Wayne Journal Gazette (IN); January 24, 1940


John Filhour

Delphos, O., Jan. 25 - John Filhour, 81, died at 3:30 am today at the W. H. Clinger home following an illness of only one day. A heart ailment caused his death. Mr. Filhour, a bachelor, had lived with the Clingers for years. He is survived by a brother, Henry Filhour of Williams County, O. Services will be conducted at the Harter Funeral Home at 2 o'clock Saturday afternoon. Interment will be in Walnut Grove Cemetery, east of Delphos.
Fort Wayne Journal Gazette (IN); January 26, 1940


James William Fisher

Funeral services for James William Fisher, two-day-old son of Mr. and Mrs. William Fisher of 723 East Jefferson Street, who died at 11 o'clock Thursday morning at St. Joseph's Hospital, will be held this afternoon at 3 o'clock at Mungovan & Sons Mortuary. Burial will be in the Catholic Cemetery. The parents are members of St. Mary's Catholic Church. Survivors include the parents and the grandparents, William Fisher, Sr., Mrs. Audrey Fisher Walters and Mrs. Peter Deltschel, all of this city.
Fort Wayne Journal Gazette (IN); January 26, 1940


Anna (Meyer) Frohnapfel

Funeral services for Mrs. Anna Frohnapfel, 71, who died at 6:45 o'clock Thursday morning at the nursing home on Creighton Avenue, where she had been a patient since suffering a stroke of apoplexy last November, will be held Saturday afternoon at 2 o'clock at Scheuman's Funeral Home, Rev. Erwin Tepker officiating. Burial will be in Lindenwood Cemetery. Friends may view the body at the funeral home. The deceased was born in Fort Wayne and resided here most of her life. She was a member of Emmaus Lutheran Church and the Ladies' Aid Society. Survivors include two sons, George, local druggist and Dr. Henry Frohnapfel of Decatur; a daughter, Mrs. Frances Doctor of Glendale, Cal.; seven grandchildren; one great grandchild; three sisters, Mrs. William Schwier, Mrs. Herman Schwalm and Mrs. Charles Raudebush, all of this city, and a brother, Martin Meyer of Huntertown.
Fort Wayne Journal Gazette (IN); January 26, 1940


Margaret (Ramsey) Fults

Lagro, Jan. 23 - Mrs. Margaret Ramsey Fults, 85, wife of Robert Fults, died at 8:30 o'clock this morning at her home here as the result of a paralytic stroke suffered last week. All of her life had been spent in the immediate vicinity of Lagro. For the past 25 years, she had lived in Lagro. Besides her husband, Robert Fults, she is survived by two sons, James near Lagro and Clark of Huntington, and two daughters, Mrs. A. H. Unverfurth of Tulsa, Okla., and Mrs. W. S. Schlemmer of Wabash.
Fort Wayne Journal Gazette (IN); January 24, 1940


Jean A. (Wheeler) Gadson

Jean A. Gadson
February 16, 1939 -- November 20, 2017
Jean A. Gadson, 78, of Middlebury, died at 10:35 am, on Monday, November 20, at Courtyard of Goshen after a one month stay. She was born on February 16, 1939, in South Bend, to Duane Wheeler and Mary Jane Platz. On October 24, 1954 in Elkhart County she married Donald E. Gadson; he died January 20, 2010. Surviving are two daughters, Debra Kay (Terry) Beres of Goshen, Sherri Lynn (Joseph) Knowles of Shipshewana; two sons, David (Patricia) Gadson of Pharr, TX, Douglas (Pam) Gadson of Goshen, 12 grandchildren, Jennifer (Jason) Rodriguez, Kimberly (Rey) Olivarez, David Justin Gadson, Bethany Gadson, Brandi Wallace, Seth Schult, Heaven Knowles, Coby Knowles, Haley Krahn, Ashton Krahn, Jackson Hoevener, Nic Hoevener; 10 great-grandchildren, Lux, Mika, Camila, Ariell, Aiden, Collin, Feanix, Jace, Taya and Lexi; two brothers, Michael (Carol) Wheeler and Timothy (Gina) Wheeler both of Goshen. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, three brothers, Jack, Bob and Ralph Wheeler. Jean was a member of Scott United Methodist Church. She was a homemaker, waitress, and secretary for Elkhart County Gravel. Visitation will be from 9:00 - 11:00 am on Wednesday November 22, followed by a funeral service at 11:00 am at Miller-Stewart Funeral Home, 1003 South Main Street Middlebury. Services will be conducted by Pastor Christopher White. Burial will be in Scott Cemetery, Shipshewana. Memorials may be given to Scott United Methodist Church.
Miller-Stewart Funeral Home, Middlebury, IN; online obit (accessed 11/20/2017)


Martha M. (Pearson) Gee

WEST LEBANON - Martha M. (Pearson) Gee, 64, a long time resident of West Lebanon, died at 1:03 a.m. Monday, Feb. 4, 2002 in Home Hospital, Lafayette. She had been hospitalized one day. She was born Nov. 3, 1937 in Hamilton County. Memorial services were at 1 p.m. Saturday in Grady Funeral Home, West Lebanon, with the Rev. Bruce Thornsbrough officiating. Memorial donations may be made to the West Lebanon Library.
The Fountain County Neighbor (IN); February 13, 2002, p. 3
Contributed by Jack L. Roudebush


Muriel Gosnell

DANA - Muriel Gosnell, 89, Dana, died at 11:57 p.m. Friday, Feb. 8, 2002 in West Central Community Hospital, Clinton. She was born Aug. 1, 1912 in Murdock, Ill. Funeral services were at 2 p.m. Tuesday in Overpeck-Gooch Funeral Home, Dana, with the Rev. Donald J. Treadwell officiating. Burial was in Bono Cemetery, Vana
The Fountain County Neighbor (IN); February 13, 2002, p. 3
Contributed by Jack L. Roudebush


Lawrence Haworth

Lawrence Haworth, 87, R.R. 1, Portland, died Wednesday morning at the Jay County Hospital after a short illness. He was a retired employee of Teledyne Portland Forge Inc. after 30 years of service. He was the grandfather of David Haworth of Berne. Born Dec. 29, 1889 in Randolph County, he was the son of Newton and Isolina (Benson) Haworth He was married in March of 1910 to Delsie Sachett, who survives. Surviving besides his wife are two sons, Roger Haworth, R. R. 1, Portland, Jay County Republican chairman, and Marvin Haworth, Pasadena, Calif.; one daughter, Mrs. Francis (Martha) Carlin, R.R. 2, Ridgeville; a stepbrother, Vern Edwards, Muncie; seven grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren. Services were held today at the Baird-Freeman Funeral Home in Portland, with burial in Lawndale cemetery.
[buried Lawndale Cemetery in Randolph County, IN]
Florence Gause Collection - no newspaper name, dated May 25, 1977
Contributed by Jim Geyer


Miss Ruth Heffley

Auburn, Jan. 23 - Miss Ruth Heffley, 24, daughter of Mrs. Nora Heffley of this city died unexpectedly tonight at her home here of a heart attack. Surviving in addition to her mother are four brothers, Glenn, Ralph, Kenneth and Ray Heffley and two sisters, Mrs. Savannah Funk of near Hamilton and Mrs. Gladys Caldwell of near here. Mrs. Heffley's mother and Mrs. Caldwell are vacationing in Florida. The body was removed to the Gerig-Kaylor Funeral Home.
Fort Wayne Journal Gazette (IN); January 24, 1940


Rev. W. E. Henshaw and wife, Thurza Oyler

The little town of Belleville, over in Hendricks County so well known to travelers on the Vandalia, was the scene about 1 o'clock a.m. yesterday of one of the most shocking murders ever committed in Central Indiana. Rev. WE Henshaw and wife were murdered and that for his money. Mr. Henshaw had just drawn some of his salary, about $150 and this was what excited the robbers to do the deed. The neighborhood is greatly exerted and there is a strong guard searching for the robbers. Rev. Henshaw was well known here and was just entering his ministerial career. He was taken into the Indiana conference at its September session at Bloomington and was on his first charge. He was about 28 or 30 years of age and was regarded as an exceptionally bright young man. Rev. Cooke, of this city, spoke highly of him to a reporter and said he had a very promising future before him. Mr. Henshaw was formerly of the Friends Church before joining the ME Church. There is hardly any punishment to fit such a crime as this, that blackens the record of Hendricks County.
Greencastle Banner & Times, Putnam County, IN; 11 January 1895, p. 7
Danville, Ind Oct 3 - The jury in Rev. William E. Hinshaw's case, who was indicted for the murder of his wife at Belleville, Jan 10 which has been on trial for the past 5 weeks, returned a verdict of guilty of murder in the second degree and that he be imprisoned for life at 4:30 Wednesday afternoon after being out two hours. Three members were in favor of hanging the divine. The minister never flinched when the words which consigned him to a felon's cell were read by Clerk Hathaway, but turned to the sheriff and said, "I am ready to return to the jail." The verdict is in accordance with public opinion. It is rumored that a motion will be made for a new trial. When seen at the jail Hinshaw positively refused to be interviewed and would only said, "I am innocent, regardless of the verdict of the jury. They are all good men, I understand, and I have nothing to say against them. I have nothing more to say." Attorneys for the defense would not talk except to say that they were greatly surprised at the verdict. It is understood that they will ask for a new trial. Mrs. Sarah Oyler, mother of the murdered woman was seen, but would only say, "It is terrible and I cannot believe Will guilty." Regardless of the verdict, many members of the convicted minister's church still believe him innocent and say that the whole case was worked up by detectives who were after the reward. The Hinshaw homicide was the most sensational in the criminal history of the state. Rev. William E. Hinshaw, pastor of the leading Methodist Church at Belleville, and connected with the wealthiest family in the county, was accused of murdering his wife in order to further his passion (?) with Allie Ferree, the wealthiest and prettiest girl in the vicinity. His accuser was Detective HG Webster of Indianapolis, who worked for the $4,000 reward offered for the detection of the slayer of Mrs. Hinshaw. The case was shrouded in mystery at first and everyone believed Hinshaw's statement that robbers killed his wife and wounded him on the early morning hours of January 10 last. Detective Webster narrowly escaped being lynched when he caused Hinshaw's arrest but subsequent developments around interest in the detective's claims and at the close of the trail 2/3 of the people believed the minister guilty.
[via findagrave memorial for his wife, Thurza Oyler (21 Nov 1868 - 10 Jan 1895), buried Fountain Park Cemetery, Winchester, Randolph County, Indiana]
Jeffersonville, Indiana News; 3 Oct 1895
Contributed by Karen Zach


Fannie Jane (Miller) Herndon

Mrs. Geneva Fore of 312 N. Fifth Street received word Sunday of the death of her mother, Mrs. Robert Herndon, 76, at her home in Sarasota, Florida. Mrs. Herndon was born Fannie Jane Miller on January 26, 1899 in Charleston, West Virginia, to David Lias and Alma Estep Miller, and was married on September 29, 1914 to Ira Vernon Light, who preceded her in death. She married Robert D. Herndon on December 21, 1962, and he preceded her in death. She was a member of the Friendship Baptist Church and a past Noble Grand of the Olive Rebekah Lodge in Sarasota. She had visited Decatur several times, the last time in August of 1970. Survivors include five children: Mrs. P. V. (Viola) Reed of Sarasota, Mrs. C. L. (Louise) Nichols of Streator, Illinois, Mrs. Cleis (Arietta) Akers of Cleveland, Mrs. Geneva Fore of Decatur, and Dennie J. Light of New Jersey. Fourteen grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild also survive. Five children preceded her in death. Services will be held Thursday at the Fial Funeral Home in Sarasota.
[Buried Friendship Baptist Cemetery, Sarasota, Sarasota County, Florida]
Decatur Daily Democrat, Adams County, Indiana; Monday, July 21, 1975
Contributed by Janice Vasilovski


Russell Hively

Russell Hively, 58, of R.R. No. 4, Columbia City, died at 12:50 o'clock this morning at the Lutheran Hospital. He was admitted as a surgical patient. The body was removed to a Columbia City funeral home.
Fort Wayne Journal Gazette (IN); January 24, 1940


Aaron Hosler

Funeral services for Aaron Hosler, 76, who died Wednesday at midnight at the home of a daughter, Mrs. Carl Glick of 211 Cosy Court, will be held Saturday afternoon at 2 o'clock at Forest Chapel U.B. Church, south of Laud. Burial will be in Sandbank Cemetery in Whitley County. Death followed a year's illness
Fort Wayne Journal Gazette (IN); January 26, 1940


Alex C. Huestis

Ft. Wayne, Ind., Jan 24 - Alex C. Huestis, one of the oldest residents of Ft. Wayne died suddenly last night. He was a pioneer wholesale merchant, coming to Ft. Wayne in 1847 and was well known throughout Ohio and Indiana. He was highly educated and in 1847 issued a work entitled, "Huestis, Principles of Natural Philosophy," which attracted much attention among educators. He was at different times connected with leading educational institutions and was a fine Shakespearean scholar.
Greencastle Banner & Times, Putnam County, IN; 25 January 1895, p. 3
Contributed by Karen Zach


James Lee Jacks

WILLIAMSPORT - James Lee Jacks, 67, West College Corner, former resident of Williamsport, died at 10:20 p.m. Thursday, Feb.7, 2002 in St. Vincents Williamsport Hospital emergency room. He was born Sept. 30, 1934 in Kramer. Funeral services were at noon Tuesday in the Williamsport Christian Church with the Revs. Don Williams and Bryce Wiley officiating. Grady Funeral Home, Williamsport, was in charge of arrangements. Memorial donations may be made to the Williamsport Christian Church.
The Fountain County Neighbor (IN); February 13, 2002, p. 3
Contributed by Jack L. Roudebush


Richard Carl "Dick" Johnson

Richard Carl "Dick" Johnson was released from the hands of his loving wife and family on Friday, Jan. 12, 2018 to go and be with Jesus. Born Sept. 29, 1926 in Detroit, Mich., he was the son of the late Ethel (Kovatch) Rybicki of Toledo, Ohio and Carl Corbbett Johnson of Cleveland, Ohio. He graduated from Ball State University with a BS in accounting and received his MBA from St. Francis University. He worked as a Lineman Class A and then as a personnel and marketing supervisor at Indiana Michigan Power, AEP retiring after 43 years of service. Richard served in the U.S. Navy SEABEES in World War II in the South Pacific: Guam, Saipan, and the Philippines. He is survived by his wife, F. Joan Johnson, who he affectionately referred to as his "Partner" in life and love. Married on Sept. 29, 1951 at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Muncie, Ind., Dick and Joan credit their strong faith in God and their unwavering commitment to family and friends for their innumerable blessings. As devoted parents, Joan was a dedicated homemaker for decades; and later worked for the Fort Wayne Juvenile Probation Department and Stat Care. Having blessed this world with three sons and seven daughters, Richard is survived by all of them, Mel (Sandy) Johnson of Royal Oak, Mich., Thom (Susan) Johnson of Fort Wayne, IN, Karen (Phil) Lake of Craigville, Ind., Richard (Elaine) Johnson of Decatur, Texas, Cathy (Scott) McLeish of Fort Wayne, Ind., Carole (Tom) Bills of Whitley County, Mary Johnson (Ed Garr) of Ripley, N.Y., Joan (Dave) Hippenhammer of Fort Wayne, Ind., Judi (Brad) Holsinger of Indianapolis, Ind., Darcey (Mark) McNeal of Anderson, Ind. Known to his sons-in-law as "Mr. J." and to his 31 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren as "Grandpa," "Richard's legacy of unwavering love and loyalty to all his relatives and friends will live on through the wisdom he humbly offered us by example - living his life as a gentle, faithful, and responsible man". Mass of Christian Burial is 10 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 17, 2018, at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception with calling one hour prior. Calling also from 2 to 5 and 7 to 9 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 16, 2018 at D.O. McComb & Sons Lakeside Park Funeral Home, 1140 Lake Ave., Fort Wayne (IN 46805) with a Rosary at 4:30 p.m. Entombment in Catholic Cemetery, Fort Wayne, Ind. Memorials may be made for Masses at Cathedral of Immaculate Conception or to St. Vincent DePaul Society.
D.O. McComb & Sons Funeral Home, Fort Wayne, IN; online obit (accessed 1/13/2017)


Ann L. (Shrock) Jones

Ann L. Jones
October 6, 1925 -- January 25, 2018
Ann L. Jones, 92, of Goshen, died at 4:20 pm, on Thursday, January 25, at Courtyard of Goshen, Goshen. She was born on October 6, 1925, in Fairbank, IA, to Levi F. and Rachel L. (Stutzman) Shrock. On September 4, 1948 in Elkhart County she married Levi J. Jones; he died November 9, 1992. Surviving are two daughters, Glenda (Barry) Jones Van Paris of Indianapolis, Jane (Steve) Wainscott of Topeka; two grandsons, Jon and Chris Wainscott; four great grandchildren, Madeleine, Joshua, Kennedy and Grayson Wainscott; and a brother, Homer (Judy) Shrock. She was preceded in death by her husband, parents, two sisters, Clara Wingard, Liz Rheinheimer, two brothers, Walter and Alvin Shrock. Ann was a member of First Mennonite Church in Middlebury, had worked in the cafeteria for the Westview School Corporation until 1972 and also cleaned homes and offices. She enjoyed golf, hunting with her husband, cooking, was a seamstress and delivered flowers. Visitation will be from 4:00 - 7:00 pm on Monday January 29, at Miller-Stewart Funeral Home, 1003 South Main Street Middlebury. Family and friends may gather for a graveside service at 10:00 am on Tuesday, January 30 at Grace Lawn Cemetery, Middlebury. A memorial service will follow at 11:00 am on Tuesday at the funeral home. Services will be conducted by Pastor Kent Miller. Memorials may be given to First Mennonite Church for the Food Pantry.
Miller-Stewart Funeral Home, Middlebury, IN; online obit (accessed 1/26/2018)


Twin Lanning babies

Washington, Ind Dec 16 -- Twin babies, four months old, whose father, JW Lanning, runs a milk depot in this city were nursed with milk that had stood in a new tin bucket which had been found in the road. The babies are dead. The coroner is investigating.
Greencastle Banner-Times, Putnam County, IN; 11 Dec 1896
Contributed by Karen Zach


Aquilla Laverty

Rockville, Ind., Nov 26 -- Aquilla Laverty, one of the wealthiest farmers in Parke County fell through a shaft in his elevator, sustaining probably fatal injuries. He is 76 years old and owns about 4,000 acres of the best Wabash Valley land. During the war he was a member of the famous 31st Indiana. He made much of his wealth by faring since the war.
Greencastle Banner-Times, Putnam County, IN; 27 Nov 1896, p. 2
Contributed by Karen Zach


Henry Marion Lay

Advance - Henry Marion Lay, 78, died at General Hospital in Indianapolis Tuesday evening. He had been ill one week. He was born in March 1887 in Somerset, Ky to Brent and Fannie Stone Lay. He was married to Vara Livingston in Indianapolis Sept 9, 1960. He was a member of the North Christian Church in Advance. Survivors include his wife; a s, Albert; two brothers, Luis of Advance and Fred of Roachdale and five grandchildren. Services will be at 2 p.m. Saturday at the Walker Funeral Home in Jamestown. Burial will be in the IOOF Cemetery at Jamestown. Friends may call at the funeral home after 7 p.m. Friday.
Crawfordsville Journal Review, Montgomery County, IN; 9-30-1965, p 4
Contributed by Karen Zach


Mrs. Elspeth Lewis

Hartford City, Jan. 24 - The funeral of Mrs. Elspeth Lewis, former resident of this city who died at her home in Chicago, will be held at the Burk & Fennig Funeral Chapel here Thursday afternoon at 2 o'clock in charge of Rev. J. W. Fox. Burial will be in Elizabethtown. The body arrived here Wednesday afternoon.
Fort Wayne Journal Gazette (IN); January 25, 1940


Ray M. Lorton

Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. today at Brooks and Sons Funeral Home, Union City, for Ray M. Lorton, 61, of 265 East Water St., Berne. He died unexpectedly in his home at 6 a.m. Friday. Burial was in Church of the Brethren Cemetery at Union City. He had been a resident of Berne for eight years and was a former employee at CTS of Berne. Death was attributed to a heart attack. He was born June 3, 1914 in Darke County, O., and formerly resided at Union City. Survivors include the wife, Florence; two daughters, Mrs. Joy Jackson, Union City and Mrs. Melody Weaver , Berne; one son, Tracy, at home; a stepson, Leon Lea, Fort Recovery, O.; one brother, Calvin Lorton, Dayton, O.; one sister, Mrs. Janet Benett, Celina, O., and eight grandchildren. He was a member of the Brethren Church at Union City.
Decatur Daily Democrat, Adams County, Indiana; Monday, July 7, 1975
Contributed by Janice Vasilovski


Mrs. Lottie Lytle

Fremont, Jan. 24 - Funeral services will be conducted from Beam's Funeral Home here Friday afternoon at 1:30 o'clock for Mrs. Lottie Lytle, 83, who died in Detroit. Rev. Karl Thompson will officiate and burial will be in the Fremont Cemetery. She was a former resident of Fremont. Surviving are one daughter and one son.
Fort Wayne Journal Gazette (IN); January 25, 1940


Patrick J. Maloney, Gladys Chambers, Chester Chambers

Greensburg, Ind., Dec 21 - Patrick J. Maloney, 64, veteran Big Four Railroad conductor of Cincinnati, Ohio dropped dead from heart disease here after running several blocks to telephone railroad officials that his train had hit an automobile and killed two motorists. The victims of the grade crossing crash were Chester Chambers, 25, home on a furlough from the army, and his sister, Gladys Chambers 17 (47?). Maloney's body has been shipped to Cincinnati for suspicion.
Greencastle Herald, Putnam County, IN; 21 December 1928, p. 1
Contributed by Karen Zach


Zeb Maxwell

Valparaiso, Ind., July 1 - Zeb Maxwell, 22 years old of Assinong, was fearfully mangled in a runaway yesterday by falling in front of a mowing machine. He was cut in 50 places. His injuries will prove fatal.
[Note: Zeb did not die until 1916, was married and had children but this was such a disastrous happening, thought it would be a good choice for the GenWeb site. Love to know that if he was my great... gpa' : kbz]
Greencastle Banner-Times, Putnam County, IN; 3 July 1896
Contributed by Karen Zach


Mrs. Ethel Gertrude McDougall

Mrs. Ethel Gertrude McDougall, 47, of R. R. No. 9, Fort Wayne, died at 6:50 pm yesterday at the Lutheran Hospital where she had undergone a surgical operation. She was admitted to the hospital January 24. The body was taken to the Harper Funeral Home in New Haven. Survivors include the husband, Bert; a daughter, Gloria, and one sister.
Fort Wayne Journal Gazette (IN); January 26, 1940


Francile (Erwin) Means

MRS. MEANS DEAD - Passed Away Sunday Morning at the Reed Memorial Hospital in Richmond
LEAVES A BABY SON - Formerly Miss Francile Erwin - Funeral Services Tuesday Afternoon
Mrs. Guy S. Means, formerly Miss Francile Erwin, daughter of the late (Judge?) R. K. Erwin, of this city, died Sunday afternoon at Richmond, Ind., after an illness of one week's duration. Her death resulted from thrombosis, or a coagulation of the blood vessels. Mrs. Means was born in this city and moved to Fort Wayne twelve years ago when the family located there, her father following the practice of law in Allen county. She was married in Fort Wayne a year and a half ago, and she her husband went to Richmond to make their home, and had since resided there. Her death occurred at the Reed Memorial hospital Sunday morning at ??. She graduated from the Fort Wayne high school in the class of ??. Surviving are the husband and a baby son, the mother, Mrs. Luella Erwin, living at ?? Crescent avenue, Fort Wayne; three brothers, David Erwin, who makes his home with his mother; Dr. Harry G. Erwin of Huntertown and R. W. Erwin of Indianapolis. A sister, wife of Robert Allison, died a few years ago at Indianapolis. Dore B. and Dan N. Erwin, of this city, are uncles of the deceased. Funeral services will be held Tuesday afternoon at the home of the mother, Mrs. Luella Erwin, Crescent avenue, Fort Wayne, at 2:30 o'clock. Interment will be at Lindenwood cemetery. A number of friends and relatives will attend.
Decatur Daily Democrat, Adams County, Indiana; Monday, April 11, 1921
Contributed by Karin King


Delmar M. Miller

LaGrange, Jan. 25 - Delmar M. Miller, 6-year-old son of Mr. and Mrs. Ivan Miller of five miles west and one mile south of LaGrange, died this morning at his parents' home from pneumonia. He had been ill since Saturday. The child was born March 4, 1933 in Middlebury. He was a first grade pupil in Poynter School, southwest of LaGrange near Emma. Surviving are his parents; two brothers, Gaylord and Maurice, and one sister, Carol, all at home; his paternal grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Moses Miller of near Emma, and his maternal grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Elmer Miller of eight miles west of LaGrange. The body was taken to Caton Brothers Funeral Home. Funeral services will be Saturday at 10 am at the Mennonite Church at Emma with Rev. Oscar Hostetler, pastor of the church and Rev. Percy Miller, pastor of the Shore Mennonite Church officiating. Burial will be in Miller Cemetery, six miles west and one mile north of LaGrange.
Fort Wayne Journal Gazette (IN); January 26, 1940


George Mitchell

Frankfort, Ind., Jan 24 - George Mitchell, for many years connected with the police force of this city, was fatally stricken with apoplexy Tuesday night, dying in a few minutes. Besides being a fearless officer, Mitchell enjoyed quite a reputation throughout the state as a detective.
Greencastle Banner & Times, Putnam County, IN; 25 January 1895, p. 3
Contributed by Karen Zach


Jack C. Neidrauer

Jack C. Neidrauer, 84, passed away Saturday, Jan. 27, 2018, in Fort Wayne. Born in Buffalo, NY, Jack was a graduate of Silver Creek, NY, High School and Westminster College, New Wilmington, Pennsylvania. He served in the U.S. Army, and worked as an insurance adjuster for Fireman's Fund Insurance Co. for 30 years, then 6 years with K&K Insurance, retiring in 1995. He was a member of Good Shepherd United Methodist Church, Fort Wayne Umpires Association, and was a football, softball, and volleyball official with the IHSAA for 33 years. Jack loved sports, was an avid golfer, and a big fan of Detroit teams, Purdue, and Snider. He was a wonderful father and grandfather, and he will always be remembered for his humor and game-creation skills. He is survived by his wife, Linda, and children, Cal (Theresa) of Wellington, FL, Jill (James Lemmon) of Fort Wayne; sister, Kathleen (Jones) of Leawood, KS; 4 grandchildren, 5 step grandchildren, 1 great-grandchild, and 11 step great-grandchildren. Service is 3:00 p.m., with visitation one hour prior, Saturday, Feb. 3, at D.O. McComb & Sons Maplewood Park Funeral Home, 4017 Maplecrest Road. Visitation also from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 2, at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to the Alzheimer's Association, and/or Good Shepherd United Methodist Church, 4700 Vance Ave, Fort Wayne, IN 46815.
D.O. McComb & Sons Funeral Home, Fort Wayne, IN; online obit (accessed 1/29/2018)


Ryan Lee Newcomer

Ryan Lee Newcomer
May 29, 1951 -- April 12, 2017
Ryan Lee Newcomer, 65, of Bristol, died at 11:42 am on Wednesday, April 12, at Goshen Health Hospital, Goshen from complications of congestive heart failure. He was born on May 29, 1951 in Goshen, to Lowell Max and Patricia (Replogle) Newcomer. On July 5, 1997 in Elkhart he married Valerie Troyer; she survives. Survivors in addition to his wife are his children, Deb Newcomer of Lafayette, Tonya Newcomer-Derr, Craig (Cori) Newcomer and Heather (David) Burke all of Goshen, Amanda Pederson of Elkhart; nine grandchildren, Haley, Brandi, Kelly, Dakota, David, Mandi, Tripp, Carter and Kayden; great-granddaughter, Mary Jane; his siblings, Sue (Doug) Purdue of Goshen; Wayne (Jackie) Newcomer of Lafayette, Dale (Phyllis) Newcomer of New Paris; sister-in-law, Deloris Newcomer of Nappanee; his first wife, Niketa Berkey. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Tracy Newcomer. Ryan was on staff at the Elkhart County Juvenile Detention Center and had worked for 28 years in the sales department at Jayco. He served on the Elkhart County Sherriff's Department as a reserve officer for 23 years, serving as Chief of Reserves for many years. He served in the Army Airborne Division as a mechanic in Germany. He was active with the Elkhart County 4-H Shooting Sports, attended River Oaks Community Church and was an avid fisherman and outdoorsman. He enjoyed spending time with his children, grandchildren and other extended family. Visitation will be from 3:00 - 8:00 pm on Monday April 17, at Miller-Stewart Funeral Home, 1003 South Main Street Middlebury and from 4:00 - 8:00 pm Tuesday, April 18, at Union Center Church, 70535 CR 11, Nappanee. Funeral services will be at 10:00 am on Wednesday, April 19, also at the church. Services will be conducted by Pastor Mo Vincic. Burial will be in Union Center Cemetery, Nappanee. Memorials may be given to Elkhart County 4-H Shooting Sports or the Juvenile Detention Center.
Miller-Stewart Funeral Home, Middlebury, IN; online obit (accessed 4/13/2017)


Miss Fern Nusbaum

Fern Nusbaum, 24, of 2912 Euclid Avenue, died at 6:15 o'clock last night at the Lutheran Hospital. She had undergone an operation for appendicitis a week ago. Miss Nusbaum was born in Berne and have lived here for the past 17 years. She was an operator and part time supervisor at the Home Telephone and Telegraph Company. Surviving are her mother, Mrs. Sarah Nusbaum, and two brothers, Merlin and Clyde Nusbaum, all of Fort Wayne. The body was taken to the Julian H. Schone Funeral Home. Services are to be announced later.
Fort Wayne Journal Gazette (IN); January 24, 1940


Larry Dean Odle

WILLIAMSPORT - Larry Dean Odle, 60, rural Williamsport, died at 3:30 p.m. Monday, Feb. 4, 2002 in Home Hospital, Lafayette. He was born May 16, 1941 in Williamsport. Funeral services were at 8 p.m. Thursday in Grady Funeral Home, Williamsport, with Pastor David Adams officiating Memorial donations may be made to the Seventh Day Adventist Church, 3825 N. Vermilion St., Danville, Ill. 61832.
The Fountain County Neighbor (IN); February 13, 2002, p. 3
Contributed by Jack L. Roudebush


George M. Osborne

Laporte, Ind., Jan 22 - George M. Osborne of Wanatah this county aged 19 leaped from a moving train on the Pittsburg, Fort Wayne & Chicago RR. In the fall he struck on his back and sliding along the ground came in contact with a sharp hook and in used in fastening a signal gate, the prong entering his back and tearing the flesh horribly. In the fall one leg was thrown across the track and was severed by the wheels. He slowly bled to death. Young Osborne was a student in the schools of this city.
Greencastle Banner & Times, Putnam County, IN; 25 January 1895, p. 3
Contributed by Karen Zach


Barbara Ann (Manning) Ostrander

Barbara Ann Ostrander, 87, of Columbus, passed from this life at 10:21 p.m. Wednesday, October 29, 2014 at Four Seasons Health Care Center. Mrs. Ostrander was the co-owner with her husband, Joseph of Acme Electric and she served the Columbus community doing charitable work with various organizations such as Asbury United Methodist Church, Our Hospice, and the Senior Citizens Center. She was a faithful member of Asbury United Methodist Church and also enjoyed membership in the Sertoma Club. She enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren, flower gardening, reading, traveling, and playing cards and bridge. Born in Cedar Falls, Iowa November 13, 1926, Mrs. Ostrander was the daughter of Earl and Grace Farnsworth Manning. She married Joseph A. Ostrander June 15, 1948. He preceded her in death April 10, 2008. Survivors include her children, Tim (Gwynn) Ostrander of Columbus, Andrea Ostrander and her husband, Craig Bouse of Indianapolis, and Lee (Alice) Ostrander of Columbus; grandchildren, Amanda (Justin) Williams of Columbus, Morgan Ostrander of Santa Barbara, CA, Megan (Mike) Agugliaro of Noblesville, Andrew Bouse and his fiancée, Lisa Azar of Westfield, Brooke (Travis) Mouser of Columbus, and Brad Ostrander of Columbus; seven great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. Mrs. Ostrander was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, and her brothers and sisters.
Barkes, Weaver & Glick Funeral Home, Columbus, IN; online obit (accessed 10/30/2014)


Mrs. Clara F. Parker

Coldwater, Mich., Jan. 25 - Mrs. Clara F. Parker, 66, four several years superintendent of Oak Grove Cemetery here and at the time the only woman in Michigan to hold such a position, died suddenly last night at a hospital at Clearwater, Fla., where she had been visiting. The body will be returned here for burial.
Fort Wayne Journal Gazette (IN); January 26, 1940


Mary (Haycock) Passineau

Passineau, Mary (Haycock), age 87, passed away 01/10/2018 at Kettering Memorial Hospital in Kettering, Ohio. Mary was born in Fort Wayne, Indiana on May 18, 1930 to the late George & Dorothy (Jones) Haycock. After graduation from South Side High School in Fort Wayne, Mary attended Albion College in Michigan where she became a member of Delta Gamma Sorority. At Albion she met and married her husband of fifty-nine years, Robert L. Passineau, who preceded her in death. Mary had two sons, Gregg Passineau, who is deceased and Brett (Kim) Passineau of Kettering, Ohio who survive her. Also surviving are five grandchildren, Brian (Heather) Passineau of Apex, NC, Nicole (Steve) Kline of Fort Wayne, IN, Brett and Matthew Salmans, and Paige Passineau, all of Kettering, Ohio. Great-Grandchildren are Riley, Nolan, and Ezra Passineau of Apex, NC, and Victoria, Alexandria, and Alivia Bell of Fort Wayne, IN. Mary was a member of Normandy United Methodist Church and the Dayton Delta Gamma Alumnae Chapter. She raised and bred dogs for ten years and then due to health problems became an avid Genealogist. Mary's great attitude and positive outlook toward people and life was always refreshing. Her family will miss her smile and wonderful spirit. Private graveside service will be held at Greenlawn Memorial Park in Fort Wayne, IN with D.O. McComb and Sons handling arrangements. Please send memorials to Dayton V.A. Medical Center, PRP Department, 4100 W. Third St., Dayton, OH 45428
D.O. McComb & Sons Funeral Home, Fort Wayne, IN; online obit (accessed 1/12/2018)


S. E. Plummer

Mitchell, Ind May 13 - S.E. Plummer, who lives at Rivervale, was accidentally shot by his wife Wednesday morning. He had bought a revolver at Tunnelton and his wife took it from the bed where it was lying and pressed upon the trigger harder than she intended to do, shooting him in the head and he soon died. It is claimed that he purchased the revolver on account of his wife being insulted recently by some person passing.
Crawfordsville Weekly Journal, Montgomery County, IN; 21 May 1892
Contributed by Karen Zach


J. W. Rabbitt

LIVED AT MONROEVILLE
Word has been received in Fort Wayne of the death of J. W. Rabbitt, a former resident of this city, who passed away Thanksgiving day in Denver, Col. Twenty years ago he moved from Fort Wayne to Monroeville, and later to Denver. He was fifty-five years of age. - Ft. Wayne Journal Gazette.
Decatur Daily Democrat, Adams County, Indiana; Monday, Dec. 4, 1916
Contributed by Karin King


Herman Myers and Nora A. Richardson

Indianapolis, Nov 25 -- The suburb of Haughville was greatly excited yesterday over a double murder which had been committed sometime during the night. A newsboy in making his rounds discovered the dead bodies of a man and woman lying in front of a vacant house, which stood about a block distance from any other residence. The woman had been shot once in her breast and twice in her back, while a ball had pierced the murderer's heart, the weapon with which the deed was committed being gripped in his hand. At the morgue the bodies were identified those of Herman Myers of this city and Nora A. Richardson of Emerichsville. The motive for the killing was made known in letters from the girl found in Myers' pocket, in which she pleaded with him to marry her and save her from disgrace.
Greencastle Banner-Times, Putnam County, IN; 27 Nov 1896, p. 2
Contributed by Karen Zach


C. A. Rough

Plymouth, Ind., Nov 17 - The mangled remains of C.A. Rough, agent for the Singer Sewing Machine company and a well known business man, were found along the Pittsburgh tracks in this city. All the limbs were broken, the body being horribly crushed. He was a widower, and his death is supposed to have been accidental. He formerly resided at Warsaw.
Greencastle Banner-Times, Putnam County, IN; 20 Nov 1896, p. 3
Contributed by Karen Zach


Mrs. Wilhelmina Schweinhagen

Defiance, O., Jan. 23 - Funeral services for Mrs. Wilhelmina Schweinhagen, 93, widow of Frederick Schweinhagen who died at her Adams Township home, will be Thursday at 2 pm in Bethlehem Lutheran Church, Adams Ridge. Surviving are three sons and four daughters: Fred, John, Rudolph, Mrs. Minnie Schumacher and Mrs. Ida Dannenberg, Adams Township; Mrs. Dorothy Benecke, Ridgeville Corners and Mrs. Frieda Peck, San Francisco.
Fort Wayne Journal Gazette (IN); January 24, 1940


Ervin C. Scott

Funeral services for Ervin C. Scott, 61, of Clayton Road, route 1, Monroeville, will be held at 1:30 p.m. Saturday at Marquart Funeral Home, Monroeville. He was dead on arrival at 6:40 a.m. Wednesday at Adams County Memorial Hospital. He was a Madison Township farmer. Surviving are his wife, Helen; a son, James. A., Monroeville; two stepdaughters, Mary Ann and Debra, both at home; two brothers, Earl, Monroeville, and Carl, Hoagland; and two sisters, Mrs. Lula Taylor, Harlan, and Mrs. Lucille Fisher, Decatur. Friends may call after 7:30 p.m. today at the funeral home. Burial will be in Monroeville Memorial Cemetery.
Decatur Daily Democrat, Adams County, Indiana; Monday, July 17, 1975
Contributed by Janice Vasilovski


May (Alspaugh) Scott

Delphos, O., Jan. 23 - Services for Mrs. May Scott, 63, who died unexpectedly at Memorial Hospital in Lima yesterday afternoon, will be held at the Harter Funeral Home at 2 o'clock Wednesday afternoon with the Rev. Otis Harter of Lima, in charge. Burial will be in Walnut Grove Cemetery, east of Delphos. Her death was attributed to a cerebral hemorrhage. Surviving are: Two daughters, Mrs. Harry Freet, Lima and Mrs. Lewis Teegardin, New Hampshire, O., and a son, Craig Scott, Brainerd, Minn., seven grandchildren; three brothers, William Alspaugh, Alberta, Canada; Charles Alspaugh, Lima; and Joseph Alspaugh, Findlay; and five sisters, Mrs. Myrtle Phillips, Lima; Mrs. Ellen Bowers, Lima; Mrs. Ernest Ford, Delphos; Mrs. Margaret Corderman, Dayton; and Mrs. Gertrude Oberly, Los Angeles.
Fort Wayne Journal Gazette (IN); January 24, 1940


Carl M. Sheets

Carl M. Sheets, 57, of Van wert, O., a native of Adams County, died at 2 p.m. Wednesday in Van Wert County Hospital. He was born Nov. 20, 1917 in Adams County, a son of Ora and Gertrude Kever-Sheets. Survivors include the widow, the former Mary Bebout, whom he married March 24, 1940, in Van Wert; two daughters, Mrs. Tom (Barbara) Bates of Van Wert; Mrs. Larry (Betty) Carter of Bryan, O.; one son, James M. of Van Wert; two brothers, Roy and Harold, both of Ypsilanti, Mich.; one sister, Mrs. Lola Clemans of Bakersfield, Calif.; and six grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a grandson. Funeral services were held at 10:30 a.m. today in Alspachs, Van Wert, with Rev. Lowell Nelson officiating. Burial was in Woodland Cemetery.
Decatur Daily Democrat, Adams County, Indiana; Monday, July 5, 1975
Contributed by Janice Vasilovski


George Shillinger

Wabash, Ind., Jan 23 - George Shillinger, one of the oldest residents and business men of Roann, this county, committed suicide yesterday in the livery stable of HJ Bowman. Shillinger had become somewhat involved financially and had for a week been brooding over his troubles. He entered the stable about noon, and during the absence of the stablemen shot himself through the back of the head, falling on a robe which he had carefully spread on the floor. The bullet lodge in the brain and he lived an hour. Deceased was 60 years old.
Greencastle Banner & Times, Putnam County, IN; 25 January 1895
Contributed by Karen Zach


John M. Shirky

Brownsville, Ind., Dec 10 - John M. Shirky, is dead of paralysis. He was 83 years old and one of the pioneers of this county. For many years, he was prominent in religious work, conducting services in the primitive settlements, frequently leaving his blacksmiths hop and going directly to the place of meeting. Deceased was a man of marked ability.
Greencastle Banner-Times, Putnam County, IN; 11 Dec 1896, p. 6
Contributed by Karen Zach


Joseph Small

Indianapolis, Dec. 20 - Joseph Small, 15 of Tipton, Indiana died of hydrophobia at the James Whitcomb Riley Memorial Hospital for children here today. He was brought to the hospital in the final stages of the dreaded disease yesterday. The boy's parents, Mr. and Mrs. James Small said he was bitten by a stray dog last Thanksgiving day. He was taken to a physician and was given the Pasteur treatment. Despite this treatment apparently, the boy developed the disease. An examination of the dog's head showed that the animal had a positive case of rabies.
Greencastle Herald, Putnam County, IN; 21 December 1928, p. 1
Contributed by Karen Zach


Mrs. Vern Spencer (nee Snyder)

Mrs. Vern Spencer, 42, resident of Fort Wayne until recently, died Monday at her home in Payne, O., following an illness of several years. Survivors include the husband; a daughter, Mrs. Catherine Ort of Woodburn; three sons at home; two sisters, Mrs. John Deerwester of near Edgerton and Mrs. John Gideon of near Payne, and a brother, John Snyder. Funeral services will be held this afternoon at 2 o'clock (EST) at the Church of the Nazarene in Payne, Rev. V. E. McCoy officiating. Burial will be in Lehman Cemetery southwest of Payne.
Fort Wayne Journal Gazette (IN); January 24, 1940


Adolph Stechschulte

Delphos, O., Jan. 23 - Funeral services for Adolph Stechschulte, Leipsic clothier, who died in Kneipp Sanatorium in Rome City, Ind. Saturday, were conducted in St. Mary's Catholic Church in Leipsic at 9:30 o'clock this morning, Rev. Victor Stechschulte, brother of the deceased was celebrant of the solemn requiem high mass. Stechschulte was well known in Delphos. He was active in the Knights of Columbus organization and at the time of death was district deputy with jurisdiction over Delphos and other councils in the vicinity.
Fort Wayne Journal Gazette (IN); January 24, 1940


Charles Studer

Celina, O., Jan 23 - Funeral services will be conducted from the Church of the Immaculate Conception here at 9 o'clock Thursday morning for Charles Studer, 70, who died Tuesday at his home here of heart disease. He was a lifelong resident of Mercer County. Surviving are two sons, Raymond and Arthur; four daughters, Miss Rose and Eldora Studer, Mrs. Lee Heckler of Celina and Mrs. Charles Bennett of Bangor, Mich., and six grandchildren. Burial will be in the church cemetery.
Fort Wayne Journal Gazette (IN); January 24, 1940


George Sturm

Fort Wayne, Dec 15 - Fred Kruchenberger, aged 13 and George Sturm, aged 15, sons of well-t-do farmers of this county late last night quarreled. Kruchenberger stabbed Sturm in the neck with a penknife severing his jugular vein. The young murderer was arrested.
Greencastle Banner-Times, Putnam County, IN; 11 Dec 1896, p. 3
Contributed by Karen Zach


Ed Stutzman

Elida, O., Jan. 25 - The funeral of Ed Stutzman, of three miles west of Elida, who died yesterday at his home, will be held at the Elida Methodist Church at 10:30 o'clock Saturday morning. Burial will be in Pike Cemetery. Mr. Stutzman had been ill for the past six months. He moved from Elkhart, Ind., to the Elida vicinity a year ago. Surviving are his widow, Etta; three sons, George and Max Stutzman, Elkhart, Ind., and Milton Stutzman, at home; a daughter, Miss Marian Sutzman, Chicago; two grandchildren and a sister, Mrs. Ellen Blosser, New Stark, O.
Fort Wayne Journal Gazette (IN); January 26, 1940


Russell E. Swanson

Russell E. Swanson, husband of the former Portia Thomas Vega of Decatur, died Friday, June 27, in St. Petersburg, Fla. He was retired from civil service after 41 years of service. Born in Ottumwa, Iowa, he moved to Florida in 1961 from Illinois. Mr. Swanson was a member of the Masonic Order and at the time of his death was a member of High Twelve Lodge 188 in St. Petersburg. He is survived by his wife Mrs. Portia Vega Swanson of St Petersburg, Florida, 243 79thSt. South 33707.
Decatur Daily Democrat, Adams County, Indiana; Monday, July 7, 1975
Contributed by Janice Vasilovski


Rev. Earle Marion Todd

Rev. Earle Marion Todd, 76, pastor of the First Christian Church here from 1909 until 1913, died January 13 at Harlingen, Tex., according to word received here by Rev. Samuel Joel Burgess, pastor of the First Christian Church. He had resided in Harlingen since retiring from the ministry in 1917. The deceased was named president of Culver-Stockton College at Canton, Mo., after leaving here. He was rector of the University Christian Church at Des Moines, Ia., from 1891 to 1893. A sister, Miss Flora Todd, of Harlingen survives.
Fort Wayne Journal Gazette (IN); January 26, 1940


Fred Toedte

Evansville, Ind., May 19 - Fred Toedte, a carbuilder, aged 45 years, who lived with his wife and four children, committed suicide Wednesday evening by shooting himself in the head.
Crawfordsville Weekly Journal, Montgomery County, IN; 21 May 1892
Contributed by Karen Zach


Andrew C. Troyer

Andrew C. Troyer
March 4, 1939 -- November 15, 2017
Andrew C. Troyer, 78, of Shipshewana, died at 5:30 am on Wednesday, November 15, at his residence, following a short battle with cancer. He was born on March 4, 1939 in Topeka, to Crist and Susie (Yoder) Troyer. On May 25, 1965 in LaGrange County he married Mary A. Miller; she survives. Survivors in addition to his wife are four daughters, Elmina (Joe) Yoder of Shipshewana, Loretta Troyer of Detroit, MI, Katie (Mark) Miller and Ruth (Wilson) Dalga both of Shipshewana; five sons, Daniel (Pauline) Troyer of Bradenton, FL, Samuel (Loretta) Troyer of LaGrange, John (Doris) Troyer of Middlebury, Amos Jay Troyer of Millersburg, Andrew Jr. Troyer, of Syracuse; 21 grandchildren, six great-grandchildren; brother, Levi (Viola) Troyer of Middlebury; four sisters, Lydiann (Sam) Kauffman and Mary (Dan) Schrock both of Shipshewana, Amanda (John) Miller of Fort Wayne, Fannie Troyer of Sarasota, FL; sister-in-law, Ruby Troyer of Shipshewana. He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Eli Troyer; sister, Katie Troyer. He owned Troyer Sales and was a deacon in the Old Order Amish Church. Visitation will be after 1:00 pm on Thursday, November 16 and all day Friday, November 17 at the Devon Chupp residence, 950 N. Taylor Drive, Shipshewana. Funeral services will be at 9:30 am on Saturday, November 18 also at the Devon Chupp residence. Services will be conducted by Bishop Perry S. Miller and the home ministers. Burial will be in East Barren Cemetery, Shipshewana.
Miller-Stewart Funeral Home, Middlebury, IN; online obit (accessed 11/15/2017)


Mary E. (Miller) Troyer

Mary E. Troyer
June 25, 1935 -- July 12, 2017
Mary E. Troyer, 82, of Goshen, formerly of Middlebury, died at 3:15 pm on Wednesday, July 12, 2017 at Courtyard of Goshen. She had been in declining health for several years. She was born on June 25, 1935, in Sumner County, KS, to Eli A. and Ida E. (Miller) Miller. On February 26, 1956 in Goshen she married David D. Miller, Jr., he died September 11, 1999. Surviving are daughter, Norma (Philip) Baugher of Myerstown, PA; five sons, Richard (Bonnie) Troyer of Middlebury, David (Martha) Troyer of Mifflinburg, PA, Delmar (Nancy) Troyer of Ligonier, Verlin Troyer of Palmetto, FL, John (Sheila) Troyer of Goshen; 34 grandchildren; 28 great grandchildren; sister, Mabel (Jonathan) Stoltzfus of Ephrata, PA; two brothers, Mervin (Lola) Miller of LaGrange and Maynard (Carol) Miller of Goshen. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; granddaughter, Faith Troyer; great granddaughter, Hannah Schlabach. Mary was a homemaker and ran a Shaklee Independent Distributor business with her husband. She was a creative artist and had painted several paintings. Visitation will be from 2:00 to 4:00 and 6:00 - 8:00 pm on Friday, July 14, and one hour prior to the 10:00 am on Saturday, July 15, all at Woodlawn Mennonite Church, Goshen. Services will be conducted by the Woodlawn Mennonite Church Ministry Team. Burial will be in Woodlawn Cemetery, Goshen. Memorials may be given to Woodlawn Mennonite Church.
Miller-Stewart Funeral Home, Middlebury, IN; online obit (accessed 7/12/2017)


Anna (Snarr) Valentine

Ossian, Jan. 23 - Mrs. Anna Valentine, 77, wife of John Valentine, died last night at her home, two miles south of Poe. Surviving in addition to her husband are one daughter, Mrs. Keith Smith of near Murray; two sons, Rheua of near Poe and Snarr Valentine of Fort Wayne; three brothers, Victor Snarr of Poe, Frank Snarr of Waynedale and Charles Snarr of near Ossian; nine grandchildren and four great grandchildren. The body will be returned to the residence Wednesday from Elzey & Son Funeral Home at Ossian.
Fort Wayne Journal Gazette (IN); January 24, 1940


George William "Bill" VanHorn

George William "Bill" VanHorn, age 91, most recently of Churubusco, passed away at 8:05 a.m. on Friday, January 12, 2018 at Parkview Whitley Hospital. He was born on January 9, 1927 in Belmont County, Ohio. He was the only son of Albert and Lela (Neuhart) Vanhorn. He spent his formative years on the family farm helping his dad farm. Bill served in the United States Army during the Korean Conflict. He was married on August 26, 1948 to Alice Spearman in her parents' home. Bill worked in his early years as a Livestock Driver and also was a drainage contractor. Later he worked as an Insurance Salesman before retiring from the Ohio Department of Transportation. In his free time, he loved being outside with his draft Horses. He was a member of the Pulaskiville Community Bible Church and the Central Ohio Wagon Train Club. Bill had a servant's heart and he enjoyed taking his draft horses and wagon around to area parades and fairs to give people rides in his covered wagon. He also served as the community Santa Claus for 50 years. Bill is survived by his son, Rick (Kathryn) VanHorn of Churubusco; a son-in-law, Jamie (Debbie) Taylor; six grandchildren, David (Kim) VanHorn, Nathan (Amanda) VanHorn, Kaly VanHorn, Anna VanHorn, Jamie (Misty) Taylor, Elizabeth Taylor; eight great grandchildren. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his wife, Alice Vanhorn; a daughter, LeeAnn Taylor; an infant son, David William VanHorn; two sisters, Bessie Shinaberry and Mary Underwood. Calling will take place at Sheets & Childs Funeral Home on Monday, January 15, 2018 from 4:00 PM until 7:00 PM. Calling also at the Snyder Funeral Home Craven Chapel 67 North Main Street, Mount Gilead, Oh on Tuesday, January 16, 2017 from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm or one hour prior to the service on Wednesday. Services will begin at 11:00 AM, at Snyder Funeral Home Craven Chapel on Wednesday, January 17, 2018. Burial will follow at Maple Grove Cemetery, Chesterville, Ohio. In lieu of flowers please make memorials to Christ Community Church Building Fund.
Sheets & Childs Funeral Home, Churubusco, IN; online obit (accessed 1/12/2018)


Mrs. Mary Walker

Kokomo, Ind., Dec 21 - Mrs. Mary Walker, 104 years, reputed to have been Howard County's oldest resident was dead today at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Josephine Waits, Mrs. Walker was born in Jessamine County, Kentucky in 1824 and spent 102 years of her life in the Kentucky hill according to her relatives.
Greencastle Herald, Putnam County, IN; 21 December 1928, p. 2
Contributed by Karen Zach


Lillian Gail (Osborn) Wamsley

Lillian Gail (Osborn) Wamsley, 84, of Warren, IN. She was born May 2, 1933 to Chester Gleland Osborn and Sylvia Ellen (Sturdevant) Osborn. She died Saturday, January 13, 2018 at Heritage Pointe in Warren, IN. She married Paul Dean Wamsley November 1954; who predeceased her June 1977. Survived by daughter Deanna Colbert of Naples, Florida; son, Terry Wamsley of Portland, Texas; and grandchildren, Josef Dean, Alexander David and Noelle Dawn Wamsley. There will be no service at her request. Memorial contributions may be made to Warren United Church of Christ, 202 E 2nd St, Warren, IN 46792.
Glancy Funeral Homes, IN; online obit (accessed 1/14/2018)


Mrs. Belle Wandell

Constantine, Mich., Jan. 23 - Mrs. Belle Wandell, 79, died at the home of her granddaughter, Mrs. Arthur Ripke yesterday following an illness of 10 months. Surviving are three daughters, Mrs. Wortle Oversecker of Lawton, Mrs. Georgia Shaw of Kalamazoo and Mrs. Violet Kreisher of Kokomo, Ind., and one son, Sidney Wandell. Services will be held at the Larkin Funeral Home in Schoolcraft Wednesday afternoon at 1:30 o'clock. Burial will be in the Fitch Cemetery west of Kalamazoo.
Fort Wayne Journal Gazette (IN); January 24, 1940


Fred Warriner

Fred Warriner, 26, of Kokomo died at 9 o'clock last night at Irene Byron Sanatorium. He had been a patient there for a little over a month. The father, William Warriner of Snow, Ky., survives. The body was taken to the Scheumann Funeral Home this morning for services and interment.
Fort Wayne Journal Gazette (IN); January 24, 1940


Charles H. Weilert

Garrett, Jan. 23 - Funeral services were conducted at 2 o'clock this afternoon at the home of Mr. and Mrs. L. M. Swatley here for Charles H. Weilert, 71, who died in Spokane, Wash., of angina pectoris. He was the father of Rowell S. Weilert of this city. Burial was in Union Cemetery. He was a former resident of Fort Wayne. Surviving are the widow, one daughter, three sons, one sister, one brother and five grandchildren.
Fort Wayne Journal Gazette (IN); January 24, 1940


Miss Katie Weirich

Katie Weirich, 95, of LaGrange, formerly of Sarasota, FL, died at 7:35 am on Saturday, December 23, at Parkview LaGrange Hospital. She was born on January 7, 1922 in Shipshewana to Daniel and Elizabeth (Kauffman) Weirich. Surviving are a sister, Anna Chupp of Shipshewana; a brother, Ora (Kathrine) Weirich of Goshen; 17 nieces and 15 nephews, many great nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; four brothers, Harley E., Harry, Joe and Eli Weirich; two sisters, Ida Miller and Nona Yoder; two nieces and one nephew. Katie worked doing house cleaning most of her life. She had lived in Sarasota, FL for over 40 years and was a member of the Pine Craft Amish Church. She enjoyed traveling and had visited 47 of the states in the US. Visitation will be from 2:00 to 4:00 and 6:00 -8:00 pm on Tuesday, December 26, at Miller-Stewart Funeral Home, 1003 South Main Street Middlebury. Funeral services will be at 10:00 am on Wednesday, December 27, also at the funeral home. Services will be conducted by her nephew, Pastor Joe Weirich. Burial will be in Naylor Cemetery, Shipshewana.
Miller-Stewart Funeral Home, Middlebury, IN; online obit (accessed 12/24/2017)


James C. Wenger

Bluffton, Jan. 23 - Funeral services were held today at the Jahn Funeral Home here for James C. Wenger, one-day-old son of Mr. and Mrs. Fred Wenger, whose death occurred at the family home near Vera Cruz. Surviving besides the parents are four brothers and four sisters, all at home.
Fort Wayne Journal Gazette (IN); January 24, 1940


Mrs. A. G. Weymueller

Milford, Jan. 25 - The body of Mrs. A. G. Weymueller, 47, of Chicago, formerly of Milford, was buried yesterday in the Milford Cemetery. Funeral services were held in Chicago, where she had resided for the past 18 years. The husband and three children survive.
Fort Wayne Journal Gazette (IN); January 26, 1940


Dr. Thomas C. White

Portland, Ind., Nov 25 - Dr. Thomas C. White, one of the oldest practicing physicians in this part of the state, died yesterday at his home at Powers Station. Dr. White was born in Virginia in 1829 and he served two years in the Confederate army. He moved from Virginia to Ohio and then to Indiana. Congestion of the lungs caused his death.
Greencastle Banner-Times, Putnam County, IN; 27 Nov 1896, p. 2
Contributed by Karen Zach


Miss Emma Wichman

Miss Emma Wichman, 81, former local resident, died Monday at her home in St. Louis, Mo., according to word received here by a sister, Mrs. H. F. Honeck of 809 Charlotte Avenue. Funeral services and burial will take place Thursday at St. Louis. Survivors include three sisters, Mrs. Moneck of this city, Mrs. Clara Myer of Buffalo, N.Y. and Miss Lydia Wichman of St. Louis, and three brothers, Henry of Webster Grove, Mo., Herman of Ozark Mountains, Mo., and Paul Wichman of St. Louis.
Fort Wayne Journal Gazette (IN); January 24, 1940


Mrs. Clarissa Ann Williams

Huntington, Jan. 23 - Mrs. Clarissa Ann Williams, 82, died today at her home in Warren Township. Surviving are a son and two daughters, Ralph, Bertha May and Catherine Williams, all of Warren Township. Funeral services will be conducted at 2 o'clock Thursday afternoon at the Funk Church, Rev. L. Kreider officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery.
Fort Wayne Journal Gazette (IN); January 24, 1940


Fred Williams

Evansville, Ind., Nov 11 - Carbon, a mining village in Pike County was the scene of a tragedy last night. Fred Williams called at the home of Mrs. Palm, who was ill and attempted to assault her. Her entreaties proved of avail, just as the woman's 12-year-old child entered the room. Williams transferred his lustful attempts to the child and accomplished his purpose. As soon as Williams escaped an alarm was given and 10 or more miners armed themselves and began chase. William was overtaken and shot dead while trying to escape. His victim may die.
Greencastle Banner-Times, Putnam County, IN; 20 Nov 1896, p. 6
Contributed by Karen Zach


Kenneth C. "Whitey" Wolff

Kenneth C. "Whitey" Wolff, 82, died Saturday, January 20, 2018, at his home in Grabill. He was born March 23, 1935, in Garden City, Michigan, to the late Herman and Mabel (Hoeft) Wolff. He was a 1953 graduate of Auburn High School and attended Tri-State University in Angola for one year. He was a veteran of the United States Army. He married Charlotte A. Coburn on June 3, 1960, in Auburn, and she passed away August 20, 2013. Mr. Wolff worked for various construction companies throughout his career. Kenneth also was an active and dedicated youth and high school soccer coach for over 30 years. Surviving are three children, Michael Wolff of Elkhart, Scott Wolff of Fort Wayne and Lori (Chad) Chapman of Grabill; seven grandchildren; and a sister-in-law, Linda Wolff of Auburn. He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife of 53 years, Charlotte A. Wolff; son Troy Wolff; two sisters, Romelda Carper and Shirley Stone; and a brother, Harvey Wolff. Services will be at 11 a.m. Friday at Feller and Clark Funeral Home, 1860 Center St., Auburn, with visitation from 10-11 a.m. Friday prior to the funeral service. Dennis Voegele will be officiating. Burial will be in Riverside Cemetery in St. Joe. Visitation will also be from 4-7 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home. Memorials may be directed to St. Jude Children's Hospital.
Feller & Clark Funeral Home, DeKalb County, IN; online obit (accessed 1/22/2018)


Winfield Wyland

Winfield Wyland, son of Jonathan Wyland, died at his father's home Sunday night. The funeral was held Tuesday at this place. He leaves a wife and children.
Warsaw Daily Times (IN); Wednesday, July 1, 1896, p. 2, c. 2
Contributed by Scott Bowmar


Norma Zintel

Indianapolis, Dec 10 - Four weeks ago Norma Zintel, aged 11 years, was struck on the back of the head with a stone thrown by a boy. She felt no serious effects from the blow for a few days, then she complained of pains in her head and in a short time she was stricken with brain fever, from which she died yesterday.
Greencastle Banner-Times, Putnam County, IN; 11 Dec 1896, p. 6
Contributed by Karen Zach