Submitted by: Dan Rich
Aug. 1, 1914 - Jan. 2, 1999
South Bend Tribune 1/7/1999
Darwin Dale Listenberger, 84, of South Bend, Ind., was born on Aug. 1, 1914, in South Bend, to William Edward and Hattie (Krouse) Listenberger. The family moved to Argos, Ind., when Darwin was about three years old. He graduated from Argos High School. He then attended Coyne Electrical School in Chicago, Ill., and later went to work for Western Union in Marquette, Mich. He was preceded in death by his parents; and by two sisters, Geraldine Listenberger and Lena (Listenberger) Billman.
In January 1941, Darwin was drafted into the Army at Fort Harrison, Indianapolis, Ind. Most of his service time, four years and eleven months, was in Fort Crockett, Galveston, Texas. When World War II was declared he was assigned to Headquarters Battery in Communications with the Coast Artillery. After the war he returned to work with Western Union and remained there until he was forced to retire due to medical reasons in 1969.
On July 10, 1945, he married Annie Olline Michel, who survives. Darwin is also survived by his three children, Michel Dale Listenberger, William Craig Listenberger and Lynne Ellen (Listenberger) Guertin; a daughter-in-law, Judy Listenberger and son-in-law, Peter Guertin. He is also survived by six grandchildren, Corrie Ann (Listenberger) Bair, Laura Lynn Listenberger, David Michel Listenberger, Matthew William Klem, Alea Rose Klem and Mikala Sage Klem; a sister, Betty (Listenberger) and Robert Currens; a brother, Floyd and Mary Listenberger; and by several nieces and nephews.
Darwin served on the Board of Deacons and Board of Trustees of Ridgedale Presbyterian Church where he was a member. He was active in Boy Scouts of America, as a Cub Scout leader, and was an institutional representative sponsored by Ridgedale Church. Darwin was a skilled ''handyman'' around the house, and was active in golf and YMCA activities while health permitted. Furniture refinishing and card games were his specialties.
Services will be held at 1 p.m. today in the Ridgedale Presbyterian Church, 1406 E. Ewing, with Rev. Harris Schultz officiating. Friends may call one hour prior to service time in the church. Donations may be made in honor and memory of Darwin to Hospice of St. Joseph County or to the Ridgedale Presbyterian Church Memorial Fund, South Bend. The Forest G. Hay Funeral Home is handling arrangements.