Donna Wallace

 

Donna B. Wallace, 90, of Wabash, Indiana passed away at 7:21 a.m. Sunday, March 23, 2025, at her daughter’s residence in Wabash County. She was born on June 6, 1934, to Kermit and Beulah (Michel) Ehrenfelt in Kalona, Iowa.

Donna was a 1952 graduate of Kalona High School. Donna married her husband Richard Morris Wallace on October 2, 1953. He passed away on December 4, 2020. She worked for Frances Slocum Bank from 1964 to 1997, then retired after 30 years. She was a 50-year member of the Women’s Bowling League in Wabash, Indiana. She also held a membership with the American Legion Auxiliary Post 15 in Wabash, Indiana. Donna was a lifetime fan of the Chicago Cubs and the Chicago Bears. Donna was an active member throughout the community. She was a Junior Achievement leader as well as a softball coach through community service. Donna and her husband Dick enjoyed delivering meals on wheels in Wabash and spending winters at Gulf Shores together. They enjoyed their beloved Welsh Terrier - DeeDee. 

Donna is survived by five daughters, Vicki Lynn Harris of LaFontaine, Indiana, Martha Sue (Tim) Babb, Kathleen Kay (Loren) Rife, Teresa Marie (Raymond Jr.) Garrett, Elizabeth Ann (Donald Jr.) Watkins all of Wabash, Indiana; thirteen grandchildren, Tracy (Derek) Furnas, Nicholas Harris, Erin Ulshafer, Jeremy Ulshafer, Timothy (Gina) Babb, Jason (Brandy Wakefield) Pence, Betha (Travis) Rader, Carrie Fox, Scott (Abby Whiteman) Garrett, Amy (Mike) Enyeart, Kristie Garrett, Katie Watkins, Audra (Nicholas) Hannah; thirty-three great-grandchildren; and one great-great grandson. She is preceded in death by one daughter, Sally Little; one sister, Nancy Ehrenfelt Ogle; twin brothers; two grandchildren, Shawna Wallace and Richard Alex Watkins; one great-grandson, Dallas Miltenberger Jr.; and one son-in-law, Major General David Harris. 

Funeral Services will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Friday, March 28, 2025, at McDonald Funeral Home, Wabash Chapel, 231 Falls Avenue, Wabash, Indiana 46992, with Pastor David Phillips officiating.

Visitation for friends and family will be from 12:00 p.m. until the time of service on Friday, March 28, 2025, at the funeral home.

Preferred memorials can be made to Wabash County Animal Shelter, 810 Manchester Ave. Wabash, Indiana 46992.  

McDonald Funeral Homes, Wabash Chapel, 231 Falls Avenue, Wabash, Indiana 46992, have been trusted with Donna Wallace's final arrangements.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.mcdonaldfunerals.com

Patrick Lane Fetter

 

Patrick Lane Fetter, 63, of Wabash, Indiana passed away at 11:49 p.m. on Thursday, March 13, 2025, at Parkview Hospital Randallia in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He was born on January 17, 1962, to Travis W. and Jackie A (Pence) Fetter in Belle-Glade, Florida.

Patrick was a 1980 graduate of Wabash High School. He worked as a tool and die machinist for many years. Patrick also worked for GDX for fourteen years in Wabash, Indiana. He held a membership with St. Bernard Catholic Church in Wabash, Indiana. Patrick also held a membership with the American Legion Post 15 in Wabash, Indiana.

Patrick is survived by three brothers, Joe (Carol) Fetter of Madison, Indiana, Stanley (Kay) Fetter of Wabash, Indiana, and Michael “Mick” (Sue) Fetter of Wabash, Indiana; one special friend, Maria Short of Wabash, Indiana. He is preceded in death by his parents, Travis W. and Jackie Fetter.

Public Graveside Service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Monday, March 24, 2025, at Falls Cemetery in Wabash, Indiana. 

Following the Graveside Service there will be a Celebration of Life Gathering from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the American Legion Post #15 188 W. Market Street, Wabash, Indiana 46992. 

Preferred memorials can be made to Shop With A Cop, Wabash, Indiana.

McDonald Funeral Homes, Wabash Chapel, 231 Falls Avenue, Wabash, Indiana 46992, have been trusted with Patrick Lane Fetter’s final arrangements.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.mcdonaldfunerals.com

Robert Earl Stapleton

 

Robert Earl Stapleton, 64, a lifetime resident of Wabash, Indiana passed away at 1:30 p.m. Thursday, March 6, 2025, at his residence. He was born on December 28, 1960, to William Eugene Stapleton and Corena (Hopkins) Ansel in Wabash, Indiana.

Robert married Martha (Slee) Windsor on March 30, 1995. He worked for Orion Safety Products in Production. Robert enjoyed Rock and Roll Music, especially Lynard Skynyrd. He also enjoyed going on hikes, mushroom hunting, and camping. He was also very involved with Mississinewa 1812 Reenactments.  

Robert is survived by his wife, Martha Stapleton of Wabash, Indiana; two stepsons, Nathaniel Windsor of Fort Wayne, Indiana, Eric Windsor of Wabash, Indiana; one stepdaughter, Carrie (Matt) Reed of Wabash, Indiana; three step grandchildren, Alexis Windsor of Wabash, Indiana, Johnathan Windsor of Fort Wayne, Indiana, Zach Jones of Byron, Georgia; two brothers, Kenny Stapleton and Jimmy Stapleton, both of Wabash, Indiana; one sister, Connie Justice of Wabash, Indiana. He is preceded in death by his parents, one brother, Walter Stapleton, one sister, Diana Sizemore, and one step grandchild, Autumn Jones.

Funeral Services will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 15, 2025, at McDonald Funeral Home, Wabash Chapel, 231 Falls Avenue, Wabash, Indiana 46992, with Pastor David Phillips officiating.

Visitation for friends and family will be two hours prior to the service from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 15, 2025, at the funeral home.  

McDonald Funeral Homes, Wabash Chapel, 231 Falls Avenue, Wabash, Indiana 46992, have been trusted with Robert Stapleton’s final arrangements.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.mcdonaldfunerals.com

Vivian E. Proffitt

 

Vivian E. Proffitt, 95, of Liberty Township, Ohio formerly of Wabash, Indiana passed away at 12:06 p.m. Sunday, March 2, 2025, at her daughter's residence in Liberty Township, Ohio. She was born on August 22, 1929, to Warren and Lora (Lawson) Ogan in Wabash, Indiana.

Vivian was a 1947 graduate of Linlawn High School. She married David J. Proffitt on July 2, 1949. He passed away on November 1, 2006. Vivian was a member of Free Will Baptist Church in Wabash. She was a homemaker. In her free time, she enjoyed quilting, reading books, playing cards, and going to the casino. Most of all she loved spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren. 

Vivian is survived by one son, Dan (Donna) Proffitt of LaFontaine, Indiana; one daughter, Delores Welsh (Raymond Buchert) of Liberty Township, Ohio; one daughter-in-law, Janel Proffitt of Peru, Indiana; 10 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; and 2 great-great grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her parents, her husband, four brothers, six sisters, two sons, Dean Proffitt, who passed away on June 16, 2016, and Roy Proffitt, who passed away on October 20, 2020.

Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, March 6, 2025, at McDonald Funeral Home, Wabash Chapel, 231 Falls Avenue, Wabash, Indiana 46992, with Pastor Brad Wright officiating. Burial will follow at LaFontaine I.O.O.F. Cemetery in LaFontaine, Indiana. 

Visitation for friends and family will be two hours prior to the service from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, March 6, 2025, at the funeral home.  

Preferred memorials can be directed to the American Diabetes Association, P.O. Box 7023, Merrifield, VA 22116-7023 or Hart Homeless Animal Rescue Team of Cincinatti, 11711 Princeton Pike, Suite 341, Cincinatti, Ohio 45240 in care of McDonald Funeral Homes. 

McDonald Funeral Homes, Wabash Chapel, 231 Falls Avenue, Wabash, Indiana 46992, have been entrusted with Vivian Proffitt’s final arrangements.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.mcdonaldfunerals.com

Joanna Marie Troyer

 

Joanna Marie (Shane) Troyer, 68, of LaFontaine, Indiana, formerly of Swayzee, Indiana passed away at 11:35 p.m. on Tuesday, February 25, 2025, at her residence in LaFontaine, Indiana. She was born on June 20, 1956, to Larry Richard and Norma Jean (Whitam) Shane in Marion, Indiana.

Joanna was a 1974 graduate of Oak Hill High School. After she graduated, she married her husband John Robert Troyer on June 15, 1974. In 1977 Joanna began working as a bank teller at First National Bank in Wabash, Indiana. She also worked for Grant County Bank in Marion, Indiana, where she later retired. Joanna held a membership with Dora Christian Church in Lagro, Indiana. She was also a member of Dora Ladies Group.

Joanna is remembered for her willingness to lend a hand to anyone in need. She was always there for you when you needed her. Time and time again she would put everyone else before herself. She also is remembered for often being sassy, organized, but most importantly, kind and caring. She was an excellent cook for her family and friends. She enjoyed shopping and traveling. Her grandchildren were her life, and she loved spending time with them any chance she had. Joanna was devoted to her family and a second mom to many.

Joanna is survived by her loving husband of over 50 years, John Troyer of LaFontaine, Indiana; two daughters, Nichole Lynn (John Harris) Troyer of LaFontaine, Indiana, Erica Michelle (Trent) Gable of Wabash, Indiana; two sisters, Susan Shane of Fishers, Indiana, Nancy Becker of Florida; and five grandchildren, Brieanna Culver, Hayden Jones, Braxton Culver, Kycen Jones, and Braelyn Jones.

Funeral Services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, March 1, 2025, at McDonald Funeral Home, LaFontaine Chapel, 104 South Main Street, LaFontaine, Indiana 46940 with Pastor Mark Wisniewski officiating. Burial will follow at LaFontaine I.O.O.F Cemetery in LaFontaine, Indiana.

Visitation for friends and family will be from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Friday, February 28, 2025, at the funeral home.

Preferred memorials can be to the Pulmonary Hypertension Association, 1121 14th St. NW. Suite 150, Washington DC 20005. https://phassociation.org/donate/ 

McDonald Funeral Homes, LaFontaine Chapel, 104 South Main Street, LaFontaine, Indiana 46940, have been trusted with Joanna Marie Troyer’s final arrangements.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.mcdonaldfunerals.com

Shelley Diane (Bollan) Sidebottom

 

Shelley Diane (Bollan) Sidebottom, 52, of Wabash, Indiana passed away at 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 22, 2025, at Parkview Regional Medical Center in Fort Wayne, Indiana. She was born on February 29, 1972, to Ted and Judith (Graham) Bollan in Peru, Indiana.

Shelley was a 1991 graduate of Gulf High School in New Port Richey, Florida. She loved listening to music as well as taking care of animals, while also spending quality time with them. Shelley was a devoted and loving mother to her children.

Shelley is survived by one son, Tommy Jay Sidebottom of Wabash, Indiana; one daughter, Ashley Autumn Sidebottom of Wabash, Indiana; three brothers, Todd Bollan of Lenoir City, Tennessee, Douglas (Kim) Bollan of Wabash, Indiana, Terry (Tracey) Bollan of Wabash, Indiana; one sister, Sylvia (Ron) Calhoun of Salem, Indiana; several nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins; and childhood friends from Holman Elementary, Lanita, Anne, and Amy; and a cousin, Andrea Cruz. She is preceded in death by her father, Ted Bollan; paternal grandparents; and maternal grandparents.

Private family services will be held at a later date.

McDonald Funeral Homes, Wabash Chapel, 231 Falls Avenue, Wabash, Indiana 46992, have been trusted with Shelley Diane Sidebottom’s final arrangements.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.mcdonaldfunerals.com

Brandy Leigh Woodward

 

Brandy Leigh Woodward, 47, of Wabash, Indiana passed away at 2:03 p.m. Tuesday, February 18, 2025, at Parkview Regional Medical Center in Fort Wayne, Indiana. She was born on January 28, 1978, to Ronald and Diana (Haley) Woodward in Wabash, Indiana.

Brandy was a 1997 graduate of Wabash High School. She held a membership with Trinity Baptist Church in Peru, Indiana. Brandy was featured in a Resource Connection (division of Pathfinder, Inc.) brochure when employed at Goose Graphics of Wabash, Indiana. She was one of four students whose artwork was selected for “Life in the White House” exhibition in 1992. She was presented an award by Mrs. Marilyn Tucker Quayle, wife of the vice president. Brandy enjoyed raising and caring for animals. She was extremely kind and would literally give her last dollar in order to help a friend.  

Brandy is survived by her parents, Ronald and Diana Woodward of Wabash, Indiana; one sister, Wendy J. (Dwane) Shepherd of Lagro, Indiana; one brother, Russell L. (Kimberly) Woodward of Wabash, Indiana; two nephews, Philip Leeka, Josh Nelson; one niece, Lezlie Hein; three great nephews, Devin Hein, Cole Leeka, Lucas Leeka; two great nieces, Izabella Hein, Lydia Leeka; and companion, Karen Woodward. She is preceded in death by her sister, Heather Lynn Woodward who passed away on April 22, 1992.

Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 22, 2025, at McDonald Funeral Home, Wabash Chapel, 231 Falls Avenue, Wabash, Indiana 46992, with Reverend Amos Albright officiating.

Visitation for friends and family will be from 9:00 a.m. until the time of service on Saturday, February 22, 2025, at the funeral home.  

In lieu of flowers memorials can be directed to Fish of Wabash, 123 W Canal St, Wabash, IN 46992.

McDonald Funeral Homes, Wabash Chapel, 231 Falls Avenue, Wabash, Indiana 46992, have been trusted with Brandy Leigh Woodward’s final arrangements.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.mcdonaldfunerals.com

Martha A. Rickman

 

Martha A. Rickman, 85, of Wabash, Indiana passed away at 11:16 p.m. Friday, January 31, 2025, at Parkview Wabash Hospital in Wabash, Indiana. She was born on November 9, 1939, to Watson and Ruth (Yates) Williams in Pontiac, Michigan.

Martha was a graduate of Lutcher High School. She then attended Vennard College in University Park, Iowa receiving a bachelor's degree. She married W. Edward Rickman on December 8, 1973. He passed away September 28, 2012. She was a member of Lakeview Wesleyan Church in Marion, Indiana. Most of all she enjoyed spending time with her family.

Martha is survived by two sons, Charles (Maria) Rickman of Wainfleet Ontario, Canada, Christopher (Amy) Rickman of Fruita, Colorado; two daughters, Tana (Shane) Chellis of Ellsworth, Michigan, Teresa (Terry) Gilmore of Wainfleet Ontario, Canada; ten grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her parents, her husband, one grandchild, and two brothers.

 Burial will take place at Maple Park Cemetery in Aurora, Missouri. 

Preferred memorials can be directed to World Gospel Mission, 3783 East State Road 18, Marion, Indiana 46952 in care of McDonald Funeral Homes.

McDonald Funeral Homes, Wabash Chapel, 231 Falls Avenue, Wabash, Indiana 46992, have been trusted with Martha Rickman’s final arrangements.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.mcdonaldfunerals.com

Randall Windsor

 

Randall "Randy" Ray Windsor, 69, of Warren, Indiana passed away at 9:16 a.m. on Monday, January 27, 2025, at his residence in Warren, Indiana. He was born on December 29, 1955, to James “Bill” and Wilma Mae (Schrader) Windsor in Wabash, Indiana.

Randy was a 1974 graduate of Wabash High School. After his schooling, he served in the United States Army from 1974 to 1978. Randy worked as a maintenance man for 35 years at a variety of different factories in Indiana. He held a membership with the Moose Lodge in Wabash, Indiana. Randy was also an avid card player, woodworker, and Indianapolis Colts fan. 

Randy is survived by his brother, Bruce Windsor of Wabash, Indiana; and eight nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents, Bill and Wilma Windsor; one brother, W. Jay Windsor; and one sister, Kay Windsor.

Per Randy's request there will be no services. 

McDonald Funeral Homes, Wabash Chapel, 231 Falls Avenue, Wabash, Indiana 46992, have been entrusted with Randall "Randy" Ray Windsor’s final arrangements.

Online condolences may be made at www.mcdonaldfunerals.com.

Thomas B. Martindale

 

Thomas B. Martindale, 66, a lifetime resident of Wabash, Indiana passed away at 7:46 a.m. on Sunday, January 19, 2025, at his residence in Wabash, Indiana. He was born on September 23, 1958, to Richard E. and Lois J. (Staver) Martindale in Wabash, Indiana.

Thomas was a 1977 graduate of Northfield High School. After high school he attended and graduated from Indiana University with a triple major. He was an avid college football fan, especially the Indiana Hoosiers. He also enjoyed tools and cars. He worked for General Tire in Wabash for many years. Thomas was a member of the Sons of The American Legion Post 15 and also The Wabash Eagles Lodge. 

Thomas is survived by one son, Sterling Martindale (Haylie Faust) of Wabash, Indiana; two sisters, Louise Hart of Fort Wayne, Indiana, Lisa (Mark) King of Wabash, Indiana. He is preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Kenton Martindale. 

Funeral Services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, January 25, 2025, at McDonald Funeral Home, Wabash Chapel, 231 Falls Avenue, Wabash, Indiana 46992, with Pastor J.P. Freeman officiating.

Visitation for friends and family will be from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Friday, January 24, 2025, at the funeral home.  

Preferred memorials can be directed to the American Legion Post 15 SAL, 188 W. Market Street, Wabash, Indiana 46992 in care of McDonald Funeral Homes. 

McDonald Funeral Homes, Wabash Chapel, 231 Falls Avenue, Wabash, Indiana 46992, have been entrusted with Thomas Martindale’s final arrangements.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.mcdonaldfunerals.com

Robert "Bob" Charles Hamilton

 

Robert “Bob” Charles Hamilton, 76, a lifetime resident of Wabash, Indiana passed away on 2:30 a.m. Sunday, January 19, 2025, at his residence in Wabash, Indiana, surrounded by his loving wife and family. He was born in Wabash on September 9, 1948, Bob was the son of Lawrence Joseph and Ethel Marie (Campbell) Hamilton. He married Lynn Ellen Weitzel on January 25, 1969, at Saint Bernard Catholic Church in Wabash.

Bob was raised in Wabash, with his brothers and sister, Fred, Jim, Tom, Larry, Bill, Ed and Barb. After graduating from Wabash High School in 1967, he worked many jobs through the years, including with Dana Corporation in Marion; Farm Bureau/ North Central Co-Op Lumber in North Manchester, and retiring from Flint Special Services in Roanoke.

As he and Lynn raised their sons in Urbana, Indiana, Bob enjoyed many years of coaching them and their friends in Cub Scouts softball, Little League and Babe Ruth baseball. He relished cheering on his boys, and later his grandchildren, in sports, music and all else they pursued as their passions in life. A lifelong devoted fan of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, as well as the Chicago Bears and White Sox, Bob loved to talk ball and make connections through sports with fans of all ages.

Bob is survived by his wife, Lynn, of Wabash; children, Stephen Douglas (Beth) Hamilton of Fishers, Indiana; Robert Brian (Betsy) Hamilton of Grass Valley, California; William Joseph (Hayley) Hamilton of Wabash; grandchildren, Vivian (Demetre) Eldridge of Rough and Ready, California; Ana Hamilton of Salt Lake City, Utah; Holly and Katie Hamilton of Fishers, Indiana; Tristan, Krista and Noah Hamilton, Rayley Cravens and Marley Brown, all of Wabash; great-granddaughters, Octavia Good and Farrah Good of Rough and Ready; brothers, Jim (Rosie) Hamilton of Goshen; Bill (Theresa) Hamilton of Wabash; Ed (Cindy) Hamilton of Alexandria; sister, Barb (Roger) Hundley of Muncie; and dozens of nieces, nephews and cousins.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Lawrence and Ethel; and brothers, Larry, Tom and Fred Hamilton.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Bob’s memory to a youth sports organization in Wabash County or a similar program in your community.

McDonald Funeral Homes, Wabash Chapel, 231 Falls Avenue, Wabash, Indiana 46992, have been entrusted with Robert Hamilton’s final arrangements.

Online condolences may be made at www.mcdonaldfunerals.com.

Keith David Gross

 

Keith David Gross, 59, of Marion, Indiana passed away at 2:44 p.m. on Sunday, January 12, 2025, at his residence in Marion, Indiana. He was born on July 13, 1965, to David F. Gross and Frances (Cooper) Johnstone in Wabash, Indiana.

Keith was a 1984 graduate of Wabash High School. After high school, he served in the United States Army. Recently, Keith obtained a new job where he worked as a truck driver for Gateway R.V. Transport. Keith was a member of the American Legion and VFW in Marion, Indiana. He was known for being an outdoorsman. Keith loved to hunt, fish, and go coon hunting.

Keith is survived by his mother, Frances Johnstone of Wabash, Indiana; one son, Shannon Gross of Bluffton, Indiana; one daughter, Brandie Gross of Bluffton, Indiana; one brother, Bruce Gross of Wabash, Indiana; and eight grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his father, David F. Gross who passed away January 31, 2005, and his stepfather, David F. Johnstone who passed away February 22, 2024. 

Funeral Services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, January 17, 2025, at McDonald Funeral Home, Wabash Chapel, 231 Falls Avenue, Wabash, Indiana 46992, with Pastor Tim Prater officiating. Burial will follow at Memorial Lawns Cemetery in Wabash, Indiana.

Visitation for friends and family will be from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 16, 2025, at the funeral home.  

McDonald Funeral Homes, Wabash Chapel, 231 Falls Avenue, Wabash, Indiana 46992, have been trusted with Keith David Gross’ final arrangements.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.mcdonaldfunerals.com

Shawn Edward Ogan

 

Shawn Edward Ogan, 52, a lifetime resident of Wabash, Indiana passed away at 11:58 p.m. on Friday, January 10, 2025, at his residence in Wabash, Indiana. He was born on October 18, 1972, to Jon and Susan (Vrooman) Ogan in Wabash, Indiana.

Shawn was a 1991 graduate of Wabash High School. After high school he attended Vincennes University for some time. Later in his adulthood, Shawn worked as a forklift driver for Dollar General Distribution Center in Marion, Indiana. He also attended Wabash Christian Church in Wabash, Indiana. In his free time, Shawn enjoyed photography, watching football, and spending time with his friends and family. Shawn also loved to be outdoors mushroom hunting and tending to his garden. 

Shawn is survived by his four sons, Brayden Ogan of Wabash, Indiana, Reid (Alexis Straley) Votaw of LaFontaine, Indiana, Peyton Ogan of Wabash, Indiana, Caleb Ogan of LaFontaine, Indiana; three granddaughters, Paisley Votaw, Lainey Votaw, Josephine Votaw; one sister, Misty Marz of Wabash, Indiana; one niece, Mikayla Marz of Wabash, Indiana; three great nephews, Percival Boet, Rowan Boet, Peter Boet. He is preceded in death by his mother, Susan Ogan who passed away on November 22, 2022.

Funeral Services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 18, 2025, at McDonald Funeral Home, Wabash Chapel, 231 Falls Avenue, Wabash, Indiana 46992, with Charlie Easterday officiating.

Visitation for friends and family will be from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Friday, January 17, 2025, at the funeral home.  

McDonald Funeral Homes, Wabash Chapel, 231 Falls Avenue, Wabash, Indiana 46992, have been trusted with Shawn Edward Ogan’s final arrangements.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.mcdonaldfunerals.com

Martha "Jane" Harris Burkhart

 

Martha “Jane” Harris Burkhart, 90, of LaFontaine, Indiana passed away at 8:52 p.m. on Thursday, January 9, 2025, at Aperion Healthcare in Marion, Indiana. She was born on May 10, 1934, to Arnold and Lucinda (Gibson) Wooton in Laurel County, Kentucky.

Martha was a homemaker most of her life. She married Willard Harris on January 1, 1949. He passed away on March 6, 1998. She then married James Irvin Burkhart on January 24, 2009. He passed away August 3, 2018. Martha held a membership with Christian Heritage Church for many years in Wabash, Indiana. She was also a member of the Sympathy Club at General Motors in Marion, Indiana. In her free time, Martha enjoyed sewing, embroidering, cooking big family dinners, working on puzzles, and tending to her garden. She was also an avid doll collector throughout her life. 

Martha is survived by one son, Ronnie Harris of Marion, Indiana; two daughters, Mable Jean “Jeani” (Tom) Richards of Wabash, Indiana, Vera H. Tyner of LaFontaine, Indiana; one daughter-in-law, Linda Harris of Wabash, Indiana; two brothers, Alex Wooten of Cincinnati, Ohio, Pearl Wooton of Hamilton, Ohio; four grandchildren, Jenny Rebekah Wilson, Christopher Robert Harris, Robert "RJ" Johnny Harris, Matthew Micah Richards, Ashley Lynn Pelphrey; Nine great-grandchildren, Makiah Jade Richards, Hannah Grace Wilson, Emma Faith Wilson, Ava Hope Wilson, Tiffany Lynn Pelphrey, Trevor Dean Pelphrey, Dakota Lee Pelphrey, and Sierra Rayn Pelphrey. She is preceded in death by her parents, Arnold and Lucinda Wooton; her first husband, Willard Harris; her second husband, James Irvin Burkhart; one daughter, Delora “Dee” Arrowood; one son, Robert J. Harris; three brothers; and one sister.

Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, January 14, 2025, at McDonald Funeral Home, LaFontaine Chapel, 104 South Main Street, LaFontaine, Indiana 46940, with Pastor Tim Prater officiating. Burial will follow at LaFontaine I.O.O.F Cemetery in LaFontaine, Indiana.

Visitation for friends and family will be from 9:00 a.m. until the time of service on Tuesday, January 14, 2025, at the funeral home.

Preferred memorials can be made to Christian Heritage Church, 2776 River Rd, Wabash, IN 46692.

McDonald Funeral Homes, LaFontaine Chapel, 104 South Main Street, LaFontaine, Indiana 46940, have been trusted with Martha “Jane” Harris Burkhart’s final arrangements.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.mcdonaldfunerals.com

Phillip "Woody" Bernon Woodward

 

Phillip Bernon Woodward (Woody) 77, a lifelong resident of Wabash, Indiana passed away on Thursday, January 2, 2025.  He was born July 15, 1947, in Wabash County Hospital to Bernon Wilber Woodward and Alberta Jayne Woodward (Marks).

Phil attended Wabash High School and then enlisted in the United States Marine Corps on May 5, 1965.  He fought and served his country at Marble Mountain in South Vietnam.  On February 24, 1966, he was Wounded in Action when a Bouncing “Betty” grenade exploded, killing many in his unit. It was a blessing he survived, but sustained life-threatening injuries.  He was transported to the USS Repose ship also called the “Angel of the Orient” before being transferred to Okinawa, then finally back to the United States Great Lakes Naval Base in Chicago.  He spent most of a year recovering from his injuries before being released to go home.  On October 25, 1966, Phil was issued 100% disability and permanently retired status.  From the time he returned home until the time of his death, his family never once heard him complain despite his deep shrapnel wounds, his loss of hearing in one ear, or the loss of his right eye.  Phil’s favorite saying was “Semper Fi” which means “always faithful” or “always loyal” and is the motto of the United States Marine Corps and the one he always stayed true to.  The love for his Marine Corps never left him, if he ever saw anything with the USMC logo he bought it.

His dream was fulfilled to see the Vietnam Veterans Memorial wall in Washington, DC when on October 26, 2022, he was chosen to join the Northeast Indiana Honor Flight #40 along with 77 other veterans and his niece Angie as his chaperone.  While at the wall he was able to find two of the Wabash County Marines that never made it home.

Phil worked many years beside his father at the B.W. Woodward Company and Tin Shop learning the trade of hot tar roofing.  He eventually started his own business which he continued until a few years ago.

Phil was a lifelong fisherman.  On one fishing trip he spotted Muhammed Ali on a boat.  Phil called him over for a picture and much to his surprise, the boat came over and he got the picture of himself next to his boxing idol.  The Wabash Plain Dealer printed the story and picture which his entire family and close friends received copies.  He was also a lifelong music fan, had an extensive collection of albums he treasured, and attended many concerts over the years.  Phil loved to Morel Mushrooms hunt.  His family has photos of him returning from Michigan with a bathtub full of mushrooms that he would gladly share.  That love of hunting them never left him.  He also enjoyed traveling, the hunt for an antique bargain, collecting guns and arrow heads - many found on his parent’s farm in Rich Valley which used to be owned by Chief Clarence Godfrey.  He enjoyed driving county roads, watching Gun Smoke (he owned every episode on DVD) and cheered for the Chicago Cubs, Indianapolis Colts, and the Indiana University Hoosiers.

Most important though to him was his family and friends.  Always checking in with family asking if they need help with anything or just hanging out and talking.  Phil was very blessed to have many lifelong friends that meant very much to him.  He had many stories and memories of fun times from years past and with current friends.  Phil was a one of a kind, always, willing to lend a helping hand to anyone who needed help.  He loved his life and lived each day to the fullest.  He will be greatly missed by all that knew and loved him.

He is survived by his older sister Janet (Woodward) Black of Wabash; Niece Angie Garman (Craig) Peyton of Louisville, KY; Nephew Phillip Scott (Luchita) Black of Las Vegas, Nevada; great nieces and nephews -Phillip (Kristen) Black; Kalie (Jono) Carlton; Kyle Peyton; Patrick Black; Shayna Peyton; Steven Bernon Black; and great great nieces and nephews – Jackson; Audrey; Hayes Alexander; and Kai Jackson.  He was preceded in death by his loving parents Bernon Wilber Woodward (Woody) and Alberta Jayne Woodwards, nephews Nicky Bernon Reed and Larry Lee Black.

His family will honor and peacefully lay him to rest on Saturday, January 11, 2025, with full Military Honors.

Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, January 11, 2025, at McDonald Funeral Home, Wabash Chapel, 231 Falls Avenue, Wabash, Indiana 46992, with Pastor David Phillips officiating.

Visitation for friends and family will be from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service on Saturday, January 11, 2025, at the funeral home.  

McDonald Funeral Homes, Wabash Chapel, 231 Falls Avenue, Wabash, Indiana 46992, have been trusted with Phillip Bernon Woodward's final arrangements.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.mcdonaldfunerals.com