Emma Lou Price

Emma Lou Price, 71, a lifetime resident of Wabash, Indiana passed away at 11:30 p.m. on Wednesday, December 23, 2015 at Dukes Memorial Hospital in Peru, Indiana. She was born to the late Robert Fawley and Frances (Easterday) Tucker on June 9, 1944 in Wabash, Indiana.

Emma married Jackie Price in 1975 in Clintwood, Virginia, he survives in Wabash, Indiana. She worked at General Tire of Wabash, Indiana. She enjoyed playing bingo.

Along with her husband, Jackie; she is survived by her children, Forrest Price of Wabash, Indiana, Norma Sizemore of Wabash, Indiana, Melissa (Mike) Dock of Rensselaer, Indiana, Jacqueline Price of Wabash, Indiana, Shawn (Jenny) Price of Wabash, Indiana, Roy Price of Wabash, Indiana, and Billy Price of Wabash, Indiana; sister, Ella Siers; and six grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a sister, Barb Moore and two brothers, Bobby Fawley and Roger Fawley.

Emma wishes were to have no services. McDonald Funeral Home, 231 Falls Avenue, Wabash, Indiana is handling arrangements. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.mcdonaldfunerals.com

John R. "Bob" Sirk

John R. “Bob” Sirk, 95, of Marion, Indiana passed away at 3:05 p.m. on Thursday, December 17, 2015 at Riverwalk Village in Noblesville, Indiana. He was born to the late Flava and Mary O. (Reed) Sirk on August 22, 1920 in Wabash County, Indiana.

Born in Wabash County, Indiana Bob lived his younger years in Huntington County until 1945 when he moved to a farm in Grant County, Indiana. A graduate of Banquo High School. He married Evelyn Wimmer on May 11, 1941; she passed away on January 14, 1992. Bob served his country in the United States Army in WWII and was wounded during the Battle of the Bulge. He was a member of LaFontaine Christian Church of LaFontaine, Indiana. Bob was a 4-H leader, and his memberships also include LaFontaine Masonic Lodge, Military Order of Purple Heart, and Veteran Battle of the Bulge.

Bob is survived by three sons, Robert Joseph “Joe” Sirk (Alys) of Angola, Indiana, Jim Sirk (Betty) of Marion, Indiana, and Flava Sirk (Leah) of Sweetser, Indiana; one daughter, Sue (David) Landaw of Indianapolis, Indiana; grandchildren, Scott Sirk of Fishers, Indiana, Joel Keefer of Bloomington, Tony Sirk of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Ryan Sirk of Marion, Indiana, Joseph Sirk of Cleveland, Ohio, Kristen Sirk of New York City, New York, and Kaitlyn Sallee of Indianapolis, Indiana; great grandchildren, Kate, Scotty, Mike, Jake, and Chloe Sirk, and Frank and Bret Keefer. Bob was preceded in death by brothers, Jim Sirk and infant, Joseph Reed Sirk and a grandson, Timothy H. Sirk.

Funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, December 22, 2015 at McDonald Funeral Home, LaFontaine Chapel 104 S. Main Street, LaFontiane, Indiana 46940, with Pastor Brad Wright and Dan Guenin officiating. Burial will follow at the Mt. Etna Cemetery in Huntington County, Indiana.

Visitation for family and friends will be from 4 p.m. until 8 p.m. on Monday, December 21, 2015 at the funeral home. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.mcdonaldfunerals.com

Patrick A. Weitzel

Patrick A. Weitzel, 46, of Andrews, Indiana passed away at 12:50 p.m. on Wednesday, December 9, 2015 at Parkview Regional Medical Center in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He was born to Larry Weitzel (Diana) of Wabash, Indiana and  Patricia (Smith) VanMeter of Silver Lake, Indiana on May 28, 1969 in Wabash, Indiana.

Patrick married Kelly Wilcox on June 5, 2003, she survived. He worked at GenCorp in Wabash, Indiana, also the family business Wabash Interiors and his brothers business L.A.W. and Son Inc.

Along with his parents and wife, he is also survived by brothers, Alan Weitzel (Monica) of Akron, Indiana, Timothy Weitzel of Toledo, Ohio, and Eric Weitzel of Silver Lake, Indiana; sister, Diane Weitzel of Peru, Indiana; half-brother, Adam Weitzel of Laketon, Indiana; half-sister, Nicole Schafer of Wabash, Indiana; step sisters, Ashley Martin and Andrea Martin both of Wabash, Indiana; and many nieces and nephews. Patrick had a great since of humor. He loved the civil war, fishing, his family, and his wife.

Funeral service will be held at 6 p.m. on Monday, December 14, 2015 at McDonald Funeral Home, 231 Falls Avenue, Wabash, Indiana 46992 with Pastor Conrad Thompson officiating . Burial will be at a later date.
Visitation for family and friends will be held from 2 p.m. until 6 p.m. on Monday at the funeral home. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.mcdonaldfunerals.com

Richard F. Grove

Richard F. Grove, 89, of Wabash, Indiana passed away on Friday, December 4, 2015 at his home. He was born to the late Russell D. and Ruth (Henkel) Grove on March 17, 1926 in Fort Wayne, Indiana.

He was a Bluffton High School graduate. Richard married Dora A. Stevens on June 6, 1954, they have been married 61 years. He served his country in the United States Navy.
Along with his wife, Dora; Richard is survived by son, Lenard S. Grove (Rebecca) of Wabash, Indiana; daughter, Mrs. Julia Drake of Jonesboro, Indiana; sisters, Patricia Conner and Mrs. Mary Ann (Charles) Stepp both of Bluffton, Indiana; grandchildren, Robert S. Grove of Wabash, Indiana, Nichalos A. Grove of Wabash, Indiana, Charles Storey of Plainfield, Indiana, Adam Drake of Jonesboro, Indiana, and Christopher Drake of Jonesboro, Indiana; and great grandchildren, Aislynn Storey and Lindsey Grove.

Funeral services were held at VA Northern Indiana Chapel in Marion, Indiana. Burial followed in Mount Pleasant Cemetery in Wabash County, Indiana. Military honors were jointly given by Kokomo VFW and Indiana Navy Honor Guard. Pallbearers were Nichalos Grove, Robert Grove, David Bright, John Bright, Jim Bright, Craig Bright, and Adam Drake. Honoray pallbearers were Craig Mann and Dewayne Lynn.

McDonald Funeral Home, 231 Falls Avenue, Wabash, Indiana 46992 was entrusted with arrangements. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.mcdonaldfunerals.com

Robert J. Love Sr.

Robert J. Love Sr., 81, of Wabash, Indiana passed away at 12 a.m. on Friday, November 27, 2015 at Wellbrooke of Wabash in Wabash, Indiana. He was born to the late Ruben J. and Lucille (Pedigo) Love on November 22, 1934 in Buffalo Valley, Tennessee.

Robert retired from General Motors Corporation after 32 years in 1990. He served his country in the United States Army during the Korean Conflict. Robert was a member of American Legion Post 15 in Wabash, Indiana and Local UAW in Marion, Indiana. Bob loved life, walking, and especially spending time with his family.

He is survived by wife, Esta Erman of Wabash, Indiana; son, Robert J. Love Jr. of Wabash, Indiana; daughter, Mrs. Tammy (Kent) Mullett of Wabash, Indiana; grandchildren, Jeremy Steele (Patty) of Wabash, Indiana, Tiffanie Love of Wabash, Indiana, Brooke Bell (Jared Boggs) of Wabash, Indiana, Jacob Love of Wabash, Indiana, and Chloe Mullett of Wabash, Indiana; and six great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a daughter, Alice M. “Tina” Steele.

Funeral service will be held at 2:30 p.m. on Monday, November 30, 2015 at McDonald Funeral Home, 231 Falls Avenue, Wabash, Indiana 46992, with Pastor Tim Prater officiating. Burial will follow at the Memorial Lawns Cemetery in Wabash, Indiana.

Visitation for family and friends will be from 12 noon until 2:30 p.m. on Monday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are directed to Wabash County Cancer Society. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.mcdonaldfunerals.com

Landon C. Smith

Landon C. Smith, 27, of Wabash, Indiana passed away at 2 p.m. on Saturday, November 21, 2015 at his home. He was born in Wabash, Indiana to Douglas E. and Teresa K. (Crace) Smith on October 8, 1988.

Landon attended Wabash High School and received his G.E.D.. He was the District Manager at the Wabash Plain Dealer. Landon loved fishing, playing golf, and baseball. He enjoyed spending time with his nieces and nephews.

Along with his parents, Douglas and Teresa K. (Crace) Smith of Wabash, Indiana; he is survived by paternal grandfather, L.C. Smith of Peru, Indiana; two brothers, Shane Smith (Tiffany) of Wabash, Indiana and Ryan D. Smith (Maranda) Smith of Peru, Indiana; uncles, Kenneth Crace, Darvin Crace, Jason Crace, and Dave McKnight; aunts, Terri Smith, Cathy Crace, Pamela McKnight, Genny Crace, and Adrena Crace; nephews, Blake, Ashton, and Jackson Smith; niece, Ella Smith; and cousins, Chris Crace (Katie), Joel McKnight (Charla), Carlee Crace, and Jesse McKnight; and many other family members. He was preceded in death by maternal grandparents, Paul E. and Eula (Jeannie) Crace; and paternal grandmother, Clara M. Smith.

Funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, November 28, 2015 at Wabash Freewill Baptist Church, 1056 Erie Street, Wabash, Indiana 46992, with Pastor Todd Masters officiating. Burial will follow in the Falls Cemetery in Wabash, Indiana.

Visitation for family and friends will be from 3 p.m. until 8 p.m. on Friday, November 27, 2015 at McDonald Funeral Home, 231 Falls Avenue, Wabash, Indiana 46992. Preferred memorials are directed to the Wabash Little League. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.mcdonaldfunerals.com

Understanding the Value of Funeral Processions

Understanding the Value of Funeral Processions
By Alan D. Wolfelt, Director, Center for Loss & Life Transition
My attention was drawn to a blog post entitled “Funeral Processions Should be Outlawed,” which originally appeared on ChicagoNow.com.
The challenge to funeral service is clearly stated in the author’s opening line: “I’ve never understood the reasons behind the funeral procession.” So, here we have a clear statement of the problem. Often, it is this very lack of understanding of the value of various elements of meaningful funeral experiences (visitation, music, readings, eulogy, symbols, processions¸ reception) that causes some people to eliminate them.
Unfortunately, not understanding the WHY, or the value, of the elements, many grieving families forego them. Too often today they are stripping the funeral bare of ceremonial elements in favor of direct disposition. What they do not realize missing the “sweet spot” of a meaningful funeral experience. As T.S. Eliot observed, “You can have an experience and miss the meaning.”
In this blog post focusing on the specific element of the procession, the author claims, “They’re a traffic hazard…a massive inconvenience…and completely useless.” Of course, as the author of a number of books that advocate for the value of funerals, I beg to disagree.
The processions (or corège) literally means “to pay honor.” Often, the last thing we can do for someone we love is accompany him or her to the grave. While it provides the practical function of accompanying the dead person’s body (or cremated remains) to a “final resting place,” the procession serves a number of other needs as well.
The procession is intended to activate community support. Drivers are encourages to pull over and show respect for this final rite of passage, which signifies the transition between life and death. The procession puts the entire community on notice that one of their own has died. As drivers stop or pull over, they are invited to take pause and not only show respect for the bereaved family and friends, but to consider the preciousness of life and ponder their own mortality (one of the unstated reasons many people do not like processions). If we believe that taking a brief moment for community acknowledgement of a member’s death is a “massive inconvenience,” We have lost sight of all that is truly important.
In addition, driving in a procession often results in a sense of meaning and purpose for the participants. Their grief moves in unison and solidarity. Often their feelings inside are weighty and somber, and the weighty and somber movements of the procession expresses their internal reality. Mourning in internal grief expressed externally, and it is essential to healing. The procession is a form of mourning.
I would take this opportunity to remind everyone involved in funeral service about their responsibility as gatekeepers of ceremony surrounding death. You have an obligation to educate the families you serve and the general public about the value of funerals and the individual elements they consist of (in this case, the procession).
Yes, processions do slow traffic and force us to pause when we may be in a hurry. They are supposed to. In a fast-paced, convenience-oriented culture that is forgetting the value of meaningful funeral experiences, I invite you to join me in teaching your fellow human beings the reasons we have had processions for generations.
Dr. Wolfelt is a respected author and educator on the topic of creating meaningful funeral experiences.

Information on Death Benefits for Veterans and Social Security

https://www.forethought.com/preneed/sites/default/files/upload/files/M8642_06-15_SimplySpeakingSocSecandVeterans.pdf

Phillip Wayne Ridenour

Phillip Wayne Ridenour, 74, a lifetime resident of Wabash, Indiana passed away at 8:15 a.m. on October 31, 2015 at Millers Merry Manor West in Wabash, Indiana. He was born to the late Dwight and Catherine (Moon) Ridenour on September 8, 1941 in Wabash, Indiana.

Phillip has lived for 25 years at the Pathfinders Group Home in Wabash, Indiana and considered that his second family. He worked at Workshop Enterprises in Wabash, Indiana and as a dishwasher at Eugeina’s Restaurant in Wabash, Indiana.

He is survived by brothers, Joseph Ridenour (Sandy) of Morgantown, Indiana and David Ridenour (Sue) of Wabash, Indiana; sisters, Mrs. Mary (Russell) Rowe of Marion, Indiana, Mrs. Elizabeth (Abel) Mendez of Davie, Florida, Mrs. Rebecca (John) Rambo of Wabash, Indiana, and Lois Ridenour of Cincinnati, Ohio; several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by a sister.

Funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, November 4, 2015 at McDonald Funeral Home, 231 Falls Avenue, Wabash, Indiana 46992, with Pastor Curtis Alexander officiating. Burial will follow at Friends Cemetery in Wabash, Indiana.

Visitation for family and friends will be from 9 a.m. until 11 a.m. on Wednesday at the funeral home. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.mcdonaldfunerals.com

Mary A. Cooper

Mary A. Cooper, 93, of Wabash, Indiana passed away at 11 a.m. on Sunday, October 25, 2015 at her home. She was born to the late Charles and Edna (Scott) Keafauver on October 11, 1922 in Marion, Indiana.

Mary married George D. “Bunk” Cooper on January 5, 1940, he passed away on November 3, 1989. She retired from Magnetics of Wabash, Indiana in 1989. She was a member of Church of Christ at Wabash. Also a member of Wabash Magnetics Retirement Club. Mary enjoyed crocheting and crossword puzzles.

She is survived by two sons, Dale Cooper (Carol) of Lagro, Indiana and George Lloyd Cooper (Dee) of Marion, Indiana; daughter, Alice Longfellow of Wabash, Indiana; 5 grandchildren, 7 great grandchildren, and 5 great great grandchildren. Mary was preceded in death by a great grandson and sister.

Funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on  Thursday, October 29, 2015 at McDonald Funeral Home, 231 Falls Avenue, Wabash, Indiana 46992, with George Fahl officiating. Burial will follow at Friends Cemetery in Wabash, Indiana. Preferred memorials are directed to Church of Christ at Wabash, 1904 N. Wabash Street, Wabash, Indiana 46992.

Visitation for family and friends will be from 9 a.m. until 11 a.m. on Thursday at the funeral home. There will be a memorial service in Mary’s memory in California given by her grandson that is a Pastor. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.mcdonaldfunerals.com

Dorothy G. Johnson Drook

Dorothy G. Johnson Drook, 89 ½ of Arcadia, Florida died at 11:54 p.m. on October 23rd, 2015 at her summer home in Wabash, Indiana. She was the widow of Murry K. Drook. Born April 20, 1926 in Greeneville, Tennessee to Boy J. and Polly Fox Johnson.
She is survived by a daughter, Georgia Proffitt Engelman, a son, Charles Dennis Proffitt both of Wabash, Indiana, a son Aaron Boyd Proffitt of Arcadia, Florida, and a daughter, Dorothea K. Drook Malone of Washington D.C.; sister, Edith Johnson (Herman Kemper) Wallace of Tampa, Florida, and sister, Barbara Johnson (Roger) Krace of Greeneville, Tennessee; also four grandchildren, four great grandchildren, and three great great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband and parents and also by; two sisters, Eula Johnson (Hugh) McKay and Lucille Johnson (Horace) Wilhoit, a brother, Maynard (Marcine) Johnson all of Greeneville, Tennessee.
Burial was at Mississinewa Memorial Cemetery in Wabash County, Indiana in October of 2015. Arrangements were entrusted to McDonald Funeral Home, 231 Falls Avenue, Wabash, Indiana 46992. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.mcdonaldfunerals.com

Arnold E. Cly Jr.

Arnold E. Cly Jr., 70, of LaFontaine, Indiana passed away at 3:47 p.m. on Monday, October 12, 2015 at his home. He was born to the late Arnold E. and Guinevere (Hinshaw) Cly on February 4, 1945 at Dalhart, Texas.

Arnold married Carol Anne Campbell on June 26, 1965, she survives. He was an engineer for Honeywell, then U.S. Gypsum plant manager and he retired from Celtox. He was a member of St. Bernard Catholic Church in Wabash, Indiana. Arnold loved corvettes, I.U. and da Bears, but most of all his family. He was an engineer by trade but a farmer at Heart.

Along with his wife, Carol, he is also survived by a son, Arnold E. “Chip” Cly III (Melissa) of Marion, Indiana; daughters, Mrs. Beth Anne (Scott) Givens of Wabash, Indiana, Mrs. Cristi (Steve) Spilker of Fort Wayne, Indiana, and Mrs. Annie (Joe) Seidel of Clemmons, North Carolina; grandchildren, Mrs. Cami Anne (Eric) Elsasser of Greenfield, Indiana, Ryan Givens of Wabash, Indiana, Victoria Givens of Wabash, Indiana, Megan Cly of Marion, Indiana, Tristin Spilker of Fort Wayne, Indiana, Sydney Spilker of Fort Wayne, Indiana, Eliya Seidel of Clemmons, North Carolina, and Adaya Seidel of Clemmons, North Carolina; and sister, Mrs. Teri (Tim) Gates of Bedford, Indiana. He was preceded in death by a sister, Susan Kendall.

Mass of a Christian Burial will be held at 10 a.m. on Friday, October 16, 2015 at St. Bernard Catholic Church, 207 N. Cass Street, Wabash, Indiana 46992, with Father Sextus Don officiating. Preferred memorials are directed to St. Bernard Catholic Church.

Visitation for family and friends will be from 2 p.m. until 8 p.m. on Thursday, October 15, 2015 at McDonald Funeral Home, LaFontaine Chapel, 104 S. Main Street, LaFontaine, Indiana 46940, with Rosary beginning at 7:30 p.m. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.mcdonaldfunerals.com

Barbara S. Cone

Barbara S. Cone, 60, of Urbana, Indiana passed away at 5:40 p.m. on Saturday, October 10, 2015 at Lutheran Hospital in Fort Wayne, Indiana. She was born to the late James A. Taylor and Mintie (Porter) Kerr on July 10, 1955 in Wabash, Indiana.

Barb married Sammy C. Cone on July 14, 1973, he survives. She attended Christian Heritage Church of Wabash, Indiana. Barb enjoyed crafts, painting, fishing, gardening, and her family. She loved her grandkids to the moon and back and she was worshiped by them. Barb adored her sisters, also she loved her many nieces and nephews and was adored by them all.

Barb kept positive with humor and laughter while battling cancer for 15 months. Her favorite saying was “I have cancer, but cancer doesn’t have me.” Barb kept her spirits up by being very ornery.
She is also survived by son, Keith A. Cone (Chasity) of Wabash, Indiana; daughters, Mrs. Misty Campbell (Jeremy) of Roann, Indiana and Samantha Cone (Stan Tharp) of Silver Lake, Indiana; brothers, James Taylor Jr. (Theresa) of Stigler, Oklahoma and Bill Taylor (Connie) of Roann, Indiana; sisters, Elizabeth Winchester (Todd Miller) of Wabash, Indiana, Brenda Purdy-Emerick (Bill) of Wabash, Indiana, Janet Houlihan (Dale) of Wabash, Indiana, and Mary Bussard (Kevin) of Wabash, Indiana; step sister, Jamie Kerr Poor of North Manchester, Indiana 13 grandchildren, and 1 great grandchild. She was preceded in death by daughter, Stephanie Ann Cone, brother, Roger Taylor Sr., sister, Debra Harmon, and a grandchild.

Funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. on Thursday, October 15, 2015 at McDonald Funeral Home, 231 Falls Avenue, Wabash, Indiana 46992, officiating will be Pastor Tim Prater. Burial will follow at Falls Cemetery in Wabash, Indiana 46992.

Visitation for family and friends will be from 4 p.m. until 8 p.m. on Wednesday, October 14, 2015 at the funeral home. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.mcdonaldfunerals.com

Kitcy Joanna Bilbrey

Kitcy Joanna Bilbrey, 78, of LaFontaine, Indiana passed away at 4:23 p.m. on Wednesday, October 7, 2015 at Lutheran Hospital in Fort Wayne, Indiana. She was born to the late Rose and Audi (Garrett) Carter on January 17, 1937 in Livingston, Tennessee.
Joanna married Joe E. Bilbrey on January 3, 1959, he survives. She was a homemaker to her family. She enjoyed and was passionate about playing bingo and scratch off tickets. She loved being with her grandchildren.

Joanna is also survived by son, Eric Bilbrey (Summer) of Marion, Indiana and daughter, Mrs. Cindy (Mark) Leming of Marion, Indiana; grandchildren, Mitch Leming, Bryce Leming, Jolie Bilbrey, Landon Nelson, Autumn Alter, and Adrianna Wisner; brothers, James Carter (Dottie) of Livingston, Tennessee and DeWayne Carter (Emily) of Anderson, Indiana; and sister, Trudy Carter McDonald of Livingston, Tennessee.
She was preceded in death by a brother and two sisters.

A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, October 12, 2015 at Gardens of Memory, 11201 South Marion Road -35, Marion, Indiana 46952, with Pastor Brad Wright officiating. Preferred memorials are directed to Wabash County Cancer Society in care of the funeral home.

McDonald Funeral Home, LaFontaine Chapel, 104 S. Main Street, LaFontaine, Indiana 46940 is entrusted with arrangements. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.mcdonaldfunerals.com

Scott Allen Smith

Scott Allen Smith, 41, of Indianapolis, Indiana passed away at 5:44 a.m. on Wednesday, September 30, 2015 at his home. He was born on July 13, 1974 in Marion, Indiana. Scott enjoyed working with his father, family gatherings, collecting nascars, and ball caps.

Scott is survived by his father, Chester R. Smith (Janet) of Pittsboro, Indiana and mother, Jan (Koncz) Miller (Randy) of LaFontaine, Indiana; daughters, Kelsey Smith and Heather Smith both of Wabash, Indiana; sisters, Mrs. Greg (Sheriann) Darling of Tecumseh, Michigan, Sandi Wilcox (fiancé, Thomas Butler) of Lizella, Georgia, and Ashley Smith of Indianapolis, Indiana; brothers, Randy Miller (Gina) of LaFontaine, Indiana, Travis Miller (Cristy) of Middlebury, Indiana, Cameron Miller (Gina) of Minooka, Illinois, and Joseph Miller (Jessica) of Amarillo, Texas; and aunts,uncles, nieces, and nephews. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Gabor and Jennie (Hunt) Koncz, Chester and Margaret (Masterson) Smith.

Mass will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, October 10, 2015 at St. Bernard Catholic Church, 207 Cass Street, Wabash, Indiana 46992, with Father Sextus Don officiating. Burial will be at a later date in Glenn Haven Cemetery in Richmond, Indiana.

Preferred memorials are directed to Kelsey and Heather Smith Trust Fund for their care at Mutual Bank, 1307 Cass Street, Wabash, Indiana 46992.

McDonald Funeral Home, 231 Falls Avenue, Wabash, Indiana 46992 are entrusted with arrangements. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.mcdonaldfunerals.com

Robert K. Eviston

Robert K. Eviston, 92, of Wabash, Indiana passed away at 12:40 a.m. on Thursday, September 24, 2015 at Wellbrooke of Wabash in Wabash, Indiana. He was born to the late Hugh and Hazel (Matthews) Eviston on April 5, 1923 in Wabash County, Indiana.

He was a graduate from Lincolnville High School. Robert was a farmer and retired from Wabash County Hospital as a purchasing buyer. He was a friend of Doris George for 30 years, she survives. His memberships include Hannah Masonic Lodge #61 of Wabash, Indiana for 52 years and Farm Bureau of Wabash, Indiana. He was a lifetime sports fan, especially Basketball. Robert loved to read the paper.

He is survived by sons, Michael Eviston (Kathy) of Wabash, Indiana, and Timothy Eviston (Nancy) of Wabash, Indiana; daughter, Mrs. Kathy (Richard) Wehrly of Wabash, Indiana; sister, Mrs. Bonnie (Floyd) Fearnow of Kokomo, Indiana; 9 grandchildren, and 10 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a son, Robert K. Eviston Jr., brother, Matthew Eviston, two sisters, Nina Frank and Jeanette Howard, two grandsons, and one great grandson.

Funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, September 28, 2015 at McDonald Funeral Home, 231 Falls Avenue, Wabash, Indiana 46992, with Rev. Phil Lake officiating. Burial will follow at Center Grove Cemetery in Wabash County, Indiana. Preferred memorials are directed to Wabash/Miami County Home Healthcare and Hospice, 710 N. East Street, Wabash, Indiana 46992.

Visitation for family and friends will be from 9 a.m. until 11 a.m. on Monday at the funeral home. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.mcdonaldfunerals.com

Earnest "Ernie" C. Swain

Earnest “Ernie” C. Swain, 96, of LaFontaine, Indiana passed away at 8:50 p.m. on Tuesday, September 22, 2015 at Rolling Meadows Health Care Center in LaFontaine, Indiana. He was born to the late Wm. Henry and Bessie Ellen (Caton) Swain on November 19, 1918 in St. Clair County, Missouri.

Earnest married Charline Shannon Hardman in 1945, she passed away in 1959, then he married Freida Cole Tyler in 1960, she passed away in 1993. He retired from Fisher Body in 1980. Earnest was a member of Submarine Vets, American Legion Post 368 of Van Buren, Indiana, Fisher Body Union 971, Fisher Body Sympathy Club, and the Cilvilan Conservation Corps. He served his country in the United States Navy, during WWII.

He is survived by daughters, Mrs. Karen (Bob) Renner of Clearwater, Florida and Mrs. Nancy (Noble) Truex of Denver, Indiana; step daughters, Mrs. Penny (Don) Korporal of Warren, Indiana and Mrs. Sherry (Richard) Anderson of Houston, Texas; 4 grandchildren, 2 step grandchildren, and 7 great grandchildren. He is preceded in death by a brother, along with his wife and parents.

Funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, September 26, 2015 at McDonald Funeral Home, LaFontaine Chapel 104 S. Main Street, LaFontiane, Indiana 46940, with Pastor Brad Wright officiating. Burial will follow in the LaFontiane IOOF Cemetery in LaFontaine, Indiana.
Visitation for family and friends will be from 12 noon until time of service on Saturday at the funeral home. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.mcdonaldfunerals.com

Christopher S. Erb

Christopher S. Erb, 41, of Wabash, Indiana passed away at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, September 15, 2015 at his home. He was born on June 14, 1974 in Los Angeles, California to Alfredo Rodriguez of Wabash, Indiana and the late, Linda Lou Erb-Rodriguez.

Chris is also survived by daughter, Ashley Lynn Erb of Los Angeles, California; Jessie Rameriz of Wabash, Indiana; and sister, Jessica Rameriz of Andrews, Indiana.

Funeral service will be 10 a.m. on Monday, September 21, 2015 at McDonald Funeral Home, 231 Falls Avenue, Wabash, Indiana 46992.

Visitation for family and friends will be one hour prior to services on Monday at the funeral home. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.mcdonaldfunerals.com

Catherine Joann Brown

Catherine Joann Brown, 27, of Gas City, Indiana passed away at 7:31 a.m. on Friday, September 4, 2015 in Swayzee, Indiana. She was born to Kenny Stiddom of Adamsville, Tennessee and Tawna (Miracle) Davis of Memphis, Tennessee on November 20, 1987 in Wabash, Indiana.

She is also survived by daughter, Kaelynne Emily; brother, James Stiddom of Adamsville, Tennessee, and sister, Crystal Stiddom of North Manchester, Indiana.

Graveside service will be 11 a.m. on Thursday, September 10, 2015 at Friends Cemetery in Wabash, Indiana. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.mcdonaldfunerals.com


McDonald Funeral Home, 231 Falls Avenue, Wabash, Indiana is entrusted with arrangements.

Eileen B. Shepard

Eileen B. Shepard, 89, of LaFontaine, Indiana passed away at 6:49 p.m. on Saturday, September 5, 2015 at Rolling Meadows Healthcare Center in LaFontaine, Indiana. She was born to the late John and Maebelle (Gearhart) Heiser on February 14, 1926 in Grant County, Indiana.

Eileen graduated from Sweetser High School. She worked for Sears in Marion, Indiana, then for Kmart in Florida. She attended Calvary Baptist Church in Gas City, Indiana.
She is survived by two son, Ron Weaver (Ruth) of Missouri and Michael Weaver of Marion, Indiana; two daughters, Jennifer (Greg) West of Marion, Indiana and Becky Elliott of Wabash, Indiana; several grandchildren and great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a son, Gene and four brothers.

No services will be held. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.mcdonaldfunerals.com

McDonald Funeral Home, 231 Falls Avenue, Wabash, Indiana 46992 was entrusted with arrangements.

Betty E. Guenin

Betty E. Guenin, 91, of LaFontaine, Indiana passed away at 3:45 a.m. on Friday, September 4, 2015 at her home. She was born to the late Kenneth and Myrtle (Gaines) Howard on November 6, 1923 in Wabash County, Indiana.

She was a graduate from Lincolnville High School. Betty married William Joseph Guenin on March 20, 1942, he passed away on February 10, 2000. She was the owner and operator of Glamourette Beauty Shop in LaFontaine, Indiana, also worked at A.F. Billings in Wabash, Indiana.

Betty mostly enjoyed cooking noodles for and being with her family. Betty was a member and baptized at Lincolnville United Methodist Church, then she became a member of LaFontaine Christian Church. She is also a member of Women’s Club House of Wabash, Indiana and Marie Webster Quilt Guild of Marion, Indiana.

She is survived by two sons, Larry O. Guenin (Marcia) and Rich Guenin both of Marion, Indiana; daughter, Mrs. Jane (Steve) Peebles of Wabash, Indiana; grandchildren, Stacie Stubbs of Texas, R.J. Guenin (Kay) of LaFontaine, Indiana, Tammy (Chad) Kennedy of Bourbon, Indiana, Missy West of Texas, Kari (Clif) Airgood of Lincolnville, Indiana, Alissa (Mark) Deeter of Wabash, Indiana, and Derek (Kasey) Peebles of Bunker Hill, Indiana; 17 great grandchildren and 10 great great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by brothers, Johnny, Russell, Robert, Richard, and Donald Howard and sisters, Mary Alice Owen, Ruth Calender, and Dorothy Evelyn Williams.

Funeral service will be held at 4 p.m. on Sunday, September 6, 2015 at LaFontaine Christian Church, 202 Bruner Pike, LaFontaine, Indiana 46940, with Dan Guenin officiating. Burial will follow in the LaFontaine IOOF Cemetery in LaFontaine, Indiana.

Visitation for family and friends will be from 1 p.m. until time of service at the church on Sunday. Preferred memorials are directed to LaFontaine Christian Church, 202 Bruner Pike, LaFontaine, Indiana 46940 or Wabash/Miami County Hospice Program, 710 N. East Street, Wabash, Indiana 46992. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.mcdonaldfunerals.com
McDonald Funeral Home, LaFontaine Chapel, 104 S. Main Street, LaFontaine, Indiana 46940 is entrusted with arrangements.

Gene Hoover

Surrounded by angels, earthly and celestial, Gene Hoover, age 90, entered eternity into the open arms of His Lord and Savior on Sunday, August 23, 2015 in Matthews, North Carolina. He had been in declining health for several years, but he fought the good fight until the very end.
      Gene was born February 11, 1925 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida to H. Emil Hoover and Anna Myers Hoover. The family soon returned to Wabash, Indiana, taking up residence on the family farm, where Gene and his 3 brothers were raised. He graduated Linlawn High School in 1943, president of his class. He then joined the Army Air Corp, but WW2 ended before he finished flight school. He returned to civilian life in 1945, and soon after,  met and married his true love, Marjorie Ann Flynn, who was also from Wabash. They were married 61 years, had 3 children and lived in indiana, Colorado and Arizona.
      He was predeceased by his wife, Marj; his daughter, Chrisanne, his parents, Emil and Anna, and one brother, Richard (Dick) Hoover. He is survived by his daughter, Cyndi Webster and husband, Jim, of Matthews, North Carolina, and his son, Cam and wife, Linda of Roxbury, Wisconsin. He is also survived by grandson, Rhet Scherschligt and wife, Michelle, and their children, Myranda, Makylee, Annyka, Amelya and Libby Anne of Midvale, Utah; granddaughter, Lindsay Dahl and husband, Kris, and daughters, Samantha and Madisanne of Waddell, Arizona; granddaughter, Amber Mack and husband, Wally, and children, Noah and Elijah of Roxbury, Wisconsin; and grandson, Seth Hoover and wife, Susana, and children, Riley, Alexis and Ysabele of Wittmann, Arizona. He is also survived by brothers, Chuck Hoover and wife, Bertha Collins Hoover of Fort Wayne, Indiana, and Larry Hoover of Denver, Colorado.
     Gene was a wonderful husband and father, and a very good friend to many. He could always be counted on when anyone needed help, even if it was at great cost to himself. He was smart and loved to be busy. He could fix anything that needed fixing! He also had a wry sense of humor which tickled all who knew him, even those who were on the receiving end of one of his pranks. Praise God for these heartfelt memories of one of the very best of men we’ve ever known. We, along with Our Maker, say, “Well done, good and faithful servant." 
      McDonald Funeral Home, 231 Falls Avenue, Wabash, Indiana is entrusted with arrangements for a graveside gathering and burial in Falls Cemetery on Tuesday, September 1st, 2015 at 2:00 p.m. The family asks that no flowers be sent, but that a memorial gift to the charity of one’s choice be made in Gene’s honor if so desired. Condolences may be sent to the family at: www.mcdonaldfunerals.com.

Shirley A. Hobbs

Shirley A. Hobbs, 79, of Wabash, Indiana passed away at 5:40 a.m. on Thursday, August 27, 2015 at Autumn Ridge Healthcare Center in Wabash, Indiana. She was born to the late Foster Gatchel Sr. and Florence (Hart) Gatchel on October 11, 1935 in Wabash, Indiana.

Shirley married Melvin Richard Hobbs on July 26, 1957, he passed away on August 16, 2003. She was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church of Wabash, Indiana. She was a homemaker to her family. Shirley was a loving mother and the most important to her was her family.

She is survived by son, Morgan Hobbs (Jennifer) of Peru, Indiana; daughter, Kristina Arney of Urbana, Indiana; brothers, Jim Gatchel and Foster Gatchel Jr. both of Wabash, Indiana; 2 grandchildren, Joshua Hobbs and Shana Rowe both of Fort Wayne, Indiana; and three great grandchildren, Madlynn Rowe, Shane Hobbs, and Isabella Hobbs. She was preceded in death by a daughter, Cynthia Hobbs, two brothers, and six sisters.

Memorial service will be held at 6 p.m. on Monday, August 31, 2015 at McDonald Funeral Home, 231 Falls Avenue, Wabash, Indiana 46992. Preferred memorials are directed to American Heart Association.

Calling hours for family and friends will be from 3 p.m. until 6 p.m. on Monday at the funeral home. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.mcdonaldfunerals.com

Berton M. Moore

Berton M. Moore, 82, of Wabash, Indiana passed away at 5:35 a.m. on Saturday, August 22, 2015 at VA Northern Indiana Health Care System in Marion, Indiana. He was born to the late William V. and Agnes (Campbell) Moore on March 9, 1933 in Wabash, Indiana.

He married Phyllis Akers on June 30, 1956, she survives. Berton served his country in the United States Army from May 1953 to May 1955, during the Korean War. He retired from Ford Meter Box in Wabash, Indiana, he also did auto body work. He was a member of New Life Baptist Church of Wabash, Indiana. Berton loved fishing, mushroom hunting, and riding motorcycles.

Along with his wife, Phyllis; he is also survived by three sons, William Moore (Karen) of Roann, Indiana, Brian Moore of Urbana, Indiana, and Chris Moore of Wabash, Indiana; daughter, Mrs. Lorna (Mark) Worrick of Wabash, Indiana; sister, Dorthea Booth of Wabash, Indiana; nine grandchildren and six great grandchildren; and his dog, Buddy. He was preceded in death by a daughter, Luanne Hammonds, three brothers, and a sister.

Funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, August 27, 2015 at McDonald Funeral Home, 231 Falls Avenue, Wabash, Indiana 46992, with Pastor Steve Parks officiating. Preferred memorials are directed to National Alzheimer’s Association, 50 East 91st Street, Suite 100, Indianapolis, Indiana 46240, New Life Baptist Church, 4381 W. 300 N., Wabash, Indiana 46992, or American Huey 369, 1697 Hoosier Blvd., Peru, Indiana 46970.

Visitation for family and friends will be from 2 p.m. until 7 p.m. on Wednesday, August 26, 2015 at the funeral home. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.mcdonaldfunerals.com

Betty Jean Faust

Betty Jean Faust, 86, of LaFontaine, Indiana passed away at 10:51 a.m. on Tuesday, August 18, 2015 at Rolling Meadows Healthcare Center in LaFontaine, Indiana. She was born on July 27, 1929 in Washington Township, Indiana and adopted by the late Vaughn Trostel and Minnie E. (Lapshire) Trostel.
She was a 1948 graduate from Wabash High School. Betty married Ray W. Faust on August 12, 1948, he passed away on February 18, 2012. She was a cook for LaFontaine Elementary for 29 years and enjoyed being a homemaker for her family. She was a member of Lincolnville United Methodist Church.

Betty is survived by four sons, Michael Faust (Denise) of LaFontaine, Alan Faust of Indianapolis, Larry Lee Faust (Jennifer) of Wabash, and Jay Dee Faust  (Karan) of Galveston; nine grandchildren, Jacob Faust of Indianapolis, Josiah Faust of Indianapolis, Jason Faust of LaFontaine, Mandy Simpson of Plainfield, Josh Faust (Tara King) of Wabash, and Josh Kincaid, John Kincaid, Mary Kincaid, and Katy Kincaid all of Galveston; six great grandchildren, Haylie Faust, Nicolas Simpson, Nathanial Simpson, Savanna Faust, Trinity Faust, and A.J. Simpson. She was preceded in death by a brother, Robert and daughter-in-law, Jennifer Faust.

Funeral Service will be held at 12 noon on Saturday, August 22, 2015 at McDonald Funeral Home, LaFontaine Chapel 104 S. Main Street, LaFontaine, Indiana 46940. Officiating the services will be Rev. Melissa Rice. Burial will follow in the LaFontaine IOOF Cemetery in LaFontaine, Indiana.

Visitation for family and friends will be from 4 p.m. until 8 p.m. on Friday, August 21, 2015 at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to Lincolnville United Methodist Church, 5848 East 500 South, Wabash, IN 46992, Wabash County Animal Shelter, 810 Manchester Avenue, Wabash, Indiana 46992, or Rolling Meadows Healthcare Center Alzheimer’s Unit, 604 Rennaker Street, LaFontaine, Indiana 46940.  Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.mcdonald funerals.com

Jerry R. Stoner

Jerry R. Stoner, 75, of Wabash, Indiana passed away at 8:08 a.m. on Monday, August 17, 2015 at his home. He was born to the late Roy W. and Kathrine (Welker) Stoner on August 8, 1940 in Delphi, Indiana.

Jerry was a 1958 graduate from Delphi High School and attended I.U. of Kokomo. He married Roxanna Wray on June 11, 1962, she survives. Jerry served his country as a radioman in the United States Navy, also served in the National Guard and as a house parent at White’s Institute. He retired in 1989 as a Captain from the Wabash Police Department, then worked for the State of Indiana Adult Protection Services. Jerry attended Bachelor Creek Church of Christ and formerly attended Wabash Christian Church both in Wabash, Indiana.

Jerry was very active with Kairos Prison Ministry, Homeless Veterans, Patriot Guard Riders, and American Legion Post 15, where he was a past District 5 Commander. He was a member of Fraternal Order of Police, Elks Lodge, Kairos, American Legion Post 15, Thor Diesel Club, Moose Lodge of Wabash, Amvets, Shriners, Jester of Court 127 in Fort Wayne, Indiana, Masonic Lodge of Wabash, and Veterans of Underage Military Service, plus many many other Organizations.

Along with his wife, Roxy; he is survived by two sons, Jerry R. Stoner Jr. (Tammy Woodward) of Wabash, Indiana and Robert F. Stoner (Angela) of Gosport, Indiana; grandson, Thomas F. Stoner; and his dog, Buddy Fray. Jerry was preceded in death by a son, Thomas Edward Stoner and brother, Charles E. Davis.

Jerry enjoyed golfing, scuba diving, studying the bible, and most of all time with his family and especially his grandson.

Funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, August 22, 2015 at McDonald Funeral Home, 231 Falls Avenue, Wabash, Indiana 46992, with Pastor Cecil Cook. Burial will follow at a later date at Marion National Cemetery in Marion, Indiana.

Visitation for family and friends will be from 2 p.m. until 8 p.m. on Friday, August 21, 2015 at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are directed to Helping Hands of Wabash County, 20 E. Canal Street, Wabash, Indiana 46992, Kairos Prison Ministry, 10505 N. College Avenue, Indianapolis, Indiana 46280, or Operation Comfort Warriors-Jim Koutz, 211 W. Sycamore Street, Booneville, Indiana 47601. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.mcdonaldfunerals.com

Mary Elizabeth Jewell-Henderson

Mary Elizabeth Jewell-Henderson, 93, of Wabash, Indiana passed away at 3:03 p.m. on Monday, August 10, 2015 at Autumn Ridge Healthcare Center in Wabash, Indiana. She was born to the late Melvin Crockett and Hattie Mae (Burke) VanDyke on June 27, 1922 in Tazewell County, Virginia.

Mary married John Luke Jewell on December 3, 1938, he passed away on July 5, 1958; then she married Marshall Covert Henderson on October 14, 1959, he passed away on May 12, 1977. She was the Christian Education Director for the Wabash Presbyterian Church for many years. She retired from Social Services at Wabash County Hospital. She was a member of Wabash Presbyterian Church of Wabash, Indiana.

She is survived by children, Patricia A. (James) Fulwider of Leesburg, Indiana, Ruby K. Hendrix of Peru, Indiana, Rita J. Richardson of Phoenix, Arizona, Marsha J. Weinberg of Germantown, Maryland, Stephen C. (Sue) Henderson of Wabash, Indiana, and David K. (Debbie) Henderson of Silver Spring, Maryland; grandchildren, Chris E. (Kelli) Armie of Milford, Indiana, Jill E. (Richard) Chagnon of Poway, California, Phillip M. Armie of Warsaw, Indiana, Max E. Fulwider of Nashville, Tennessee, John C. Hendrix of Wabash, Indiana, B. Jay (Beth) Hendrix of Schaumburg, Illinois, Jerry W. Hendrix of Claypool, Indiana, Vanita M. Bell of Bloomington, Indiana, Valerie M. (Cary Hoepker) Bell of Phoenix, Arizona, D. Kent (Katie Gavaldon) Bell of Venice, California, Kent (Julie) Henderson of Wabash, Indiana, Kelli (Eloise Lindborg) Henderson of Seattle, Washington, Krys Eckelbarger of Wabash, Indiana, Mark Henderson of Washington D.C., Brian (Michele) Henderson of Indianapolis, Indiana, and Carolyn Henderson of Atlanta, Georiga; great grandchildren, Amanda Armie of Mesa, Arizona, Anthony Wooten of Mesa, Arizona, Elizabeth Chagnon of Washington D.C., Peter Chagnon of Northridge, California, Roger Chagnon of San Diego, California, Anthony (Jessica) Minnix of Fort Wayne, Indiana, Stevi (Josh Auer) Coffin of Syracuse, Indiana, Luke Armie of Warsaw, Indiana, Nola Fulwider of Nashville, Tennessee, Kyle Hendrix of Chicago, Illinois, Sara (Geoff) Klein of Santa Monica, California, Jerry Hendrix Jr. of Claypool, Indiana, Shanna Hendrix of Claypool, Indiana, Andrew Bell of Bloomington, Indiana, Shay Unger of Bloomington, Indiana, Carli Henderson and Cody Henderson both of Wabash, Indiana, Emily Eckelbarger, Erin Eckelbarger, and Evan Eckelbarger all of Wabash, Indiana; great great grandchildren, Addison Wooten of Mesa, Arizona, Alyssa Minnix of Syracuse, Indiana, Isabella Minnix of Fort Wayne, Indiana, Ava Minnix of Fort Wayne, Indiana, Jace Coffin of Syracuse, Indiana, Noah Coffin-Auer of Syracuse, Indiana; many nephews, nieces, and dear friends. She was preceded in death by two brothers, two sisters, and two grandchildren, Matthew J. Weinberg and Samuel P. Fulwider.

A funeral service will be held at 12 noon on Saturday, August 15, 2015 at Wabash Presbyterian Church, 123 W. Hill Street, Wabash, Indiana with Rev. Jonathan Cornell officiating. Interment will be at a later date in Falls Cemetery in Wabash, Indiana.

Calling hours for family and friends will be from 10 a.m. until the time of service at the church on Saturday. Preferred memorials are directed to Wabash Presbyterian Church Pastor’s Memorial Fund, 123 W. Hill Street, Wabash, Indiana 46992. McDonald Funeral Home, 231 Falls Avenue, Wabash, Indiana is entrusted with arrangements. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.mcdonaldfunerals.com

Phyllis J. Poe

Phyllis J. Poe, 85, of Marion, Indiana, passed away at 7:22 p.m. on Friday, August 7, 2015 at Indiana Masonic Home in Franklin, Indiana. She was born to the late Elbert and Lena (Murray) Renbarger on July 13, 1930 in Richland Township-Grant County, Indiana.

Phyllis was a graduate from Converse High School. She married Earl E. Poe on July 21, 1950, he survives. Phyllis was a member of LaFontaine United Methodist Church in LaFontaine, Indiana. She was also a member of Pleasant Center Farm Club and Order of Eastern Star of LaFontaine, Indiana. She was a Past Matron of LaFontaine O.E.S. #301, Past Deputy of District #18 O.E.S. and Past Grand Ruth of Indiana Grand Chapter of O.E.S..

Along with her husband, Earl; she is survived by a son, John Poe (Marva) of Dayton, Ohio; two daughters, Mrs. Marsha (Eric) Anderson of Brownsburg, Indiana and Mrs. Diane (Al) Moore of Greensburg, Indiana; eight grandchildren and four great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a sister, Carol Davis.

Funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, August 12, 2015 at McDonald Funeral Home, LaFontaine Chapel, 104 S. Main Street, LaFontaine, Indiana 46940, with Pastor Mick Wilson officiating. Burial will follow in the LaFontaine IOOF Cemetery in LaFontiane, Indiana.

Visitation for family and friends will be held from 12 noon until time of service on Wednesday at the funeral home. Order of Eastern Star services will begin the services at 2 p.m.. Preferred memorials are directed to the Order of Eastern Star in LaFontaine, Indiana 46940. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.mcdonaldfunerals.com

Baby Owen Daniel Williams

Baby Owen Daniel Williams

Owen Daniel Williams, infant son of Ri-Ann Evans and Michael Williams and beloved brother of Blayke Alan Williams, passed away on Monday, July 27, 2015 at Dukes Memorial Hospital in Peru, Indiana. In addition to his immediate family he is survived by paternal grandparents Mary Williams and Mr. and Mrs. Mike and Victoria Williams; maternal grandparents Mr. and Mrs. Terry and Tonnie Evans and Jenifer Verret and Kevin Gidley; paternal great grandmothers, Robecca Maynard and Bernice Pickering; maternal great grandparents, Daniel and Jill Morrow; as well as numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, relatives and friends who loved Owen very much. Owen was preceded by his paternal great grandfathers, William Maynard and Ellis Pickering; and maternal great grandparents, Walter and Barbara Evans.

His arrival was expected with great anticipation and love, and although he was not able to spend time on this earth; he will always remain his parents precious baby and Blayke's little brother. Owen will always be remembered; for nothing loved is ever lost.

Private family services will be held. McDonald Funeral Home, 231 Falls Avenue, Wabash, Indiana 46992 is entrusted with arrangements. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.mcdonaldfunerals.com

Daniel A. Miller

Daniel A. Miller, 49, of Greenwood, Indiana formerly of Wabash, Indiana passed away at his home on Friday, July 24, 2015. He was born on February 23, 1966 in Wabash, Indiana to Barbara Jean (Strasser) Miller, she survives in Wabash, Indiana.

Daniel was a 1984 graduate of Wabash High School. He served his country in the United States Navy for 12 years, also served during Operation Desert Storm. Daniel married Kimberlea Spiller on March 6, 2009, she survives.

He was a member of Lagro American Legion Post 248 in Lagro, Indiana and a life member of VFW Post 286 of Wabash, Indiana.

Along with his mother, Barb and wife, Kim; He is survived by a sister, Mrs. Tamer "Tammie" (Daniel) Newton of Macon, Georgia.

Funeral service will be 10 a.m. on Thursday, July 30, 2015 at McDonald Funeral Home, 231 Falls Avenue, Wabash, Indiana 46992, with Pastor Kay Gaier officiating. Burial will follow in the Fairview Cemetery in Servia, Indiana.

Visitation for family and friends will be from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. on Wednesday, July 29, 2015 at the funeral home. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.mcdonaldfunerals.com

Zelbert D. Sparks

Zelbert D. Sparks, 70, of Wabash, Indiana passed away at 3:32 p.m. on Wednesday, July 1, 2015 at his home in Wabash, Indiana. He was born to the late George Franklin and Mary (Brown) Sparks on January 8, 1945 in Wabash, Indiana.
Zelbert married Patricia V. Garner on December 2, 1968, she passed away on October 19, 2000. He retired from Celotex of Lagro, Indiana.

He is survived by a son, George Franklin Sparks (Laura) of Silver Lake, Indiana; four daughters, Phyllis J. Harris of Anderson, Indiana, Kimberly Nethercutt of Peru, Indiana, Mrs. Charman (Floyd) Noland of Wabash, Indiana, and Mrs. Tonnie (Terry) Evans of Wabash, Indiana; sister, Glenna Hampton of North Manchester, Indiana; many grandchildren and great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a daughter, Hazel Thompson, granddaughter, Melissa Noland, grandson, Walter Thompson, and great grandson, Jobe Sparks, four brothers and three sisters.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, July 11, 2015 at Wabash Chapel of God, 1463 Middle Street, Wabash, Indiana, with Ralph Johnson officiating.

Calling hours will be from 9 a.m. until 11 a.m. on Saturday at the church.
McDonald Funeral Home, 231 Falls Avenue, Wabash, Indiana is entrusted with arrangements. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.mcdonaldfunerals.com.

Johnny Swafford

Johnny Swafford, 59, of Wabash, Indiana passed away at 3:33 a.m. in his home on Wednesday, June 17, 2015.  He was born on March 20, 1956 in Bluffton, Indiana to the late Ernest Swafford and Nancy (Moser) Swafford, she survives in Disko, Indiana.
Johnny was a self-employed sub-contractor, John’s Contracting in Wabash, Indiana. He married Christina Owen on May 12, 1994, she survives. He attended Wabash Friends Church in Wabash, Indiana.

Johnny is also survived by a daughter, Mrs. Sabrina (Bill) Mixon of Kokomo, Indiana; five sons, Josh Simons (Tiffany) of Mexico, Indiana, Chris Burnham (Ember) of Marion, Indiana, Jamie Burnham of Wabash, Indiana, Todd Burnham of Wabash, Indiana, and David Burnham (Mallory Tiffany) of Elwood, Indiana; brother, Ernie Swafford; three sisters, Mrs. Jennifer (Bill) Halverson of Disko, Indiana, Sue Black of Wabash, Indiana, and Mrs. Nancy (Jim) Taylor of Wabash, Indiana; seven grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a brother.

Funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, June 22, 2015 at McDonald Funeral Home, 231 Falls Avenue, Wabash, Indiana 46992, with Pastor David Phillips officiating. Burial will follow in the Friends Cemetery in Wabash, Indiana.

Visitation for family and friends will be from 9 a.m. until 11 a.m. on Monday at the funeral home. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.mcdonaldfunerals.com

Jo Van Copeland

Jo Van Copeland, 66, of Wabash, Indiana passed away at 2:10 a.m. on Monday, June 8, 2015 at Visiting Nurse and Hospice Home in Fort Wayne, Indiana. She was born to the late Paul and Hilda (Summerland) Camp on November 3, 1948 in Wabash, Indiana.

She was a 1967 graduate of Wabash High School. Jo married Terry E. Copeland on September 23, 1967, he survives. She retired from Penske Office in Wabash, Indiana. Jo enjoyed dressing up as clowns for parades and events throughout the community. She loved her dogs Penny and Molly. Jo was a member of Wabash Church of the Brethren.

She is also survived by two sisters, Becky Shear of Lagro, Indiana and Marie Rose of Silver Lake, Indiana; 9 nieces and nephews; her father-in-law, Eugene Copeland and 2 sister-in-laws, Margo Layman and Denise Rayburn; and 4 nieces and nephews on her in-laws side.

No services will be held per Jo’s request.  Preferred memorials may be directed to Wabash County Animal Shelter, 810 Manchester Avenue, Wabash, Indiana 46992.

McDonald Funeral Home, 231 Falls Avenue, Wabash, Indiana is entrusted with arrangements. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.mcdonaldfunerals.com

Lydia "Marcy" Marcella (Burns) Finnell

Lydia “Marcy” Marcella (Burns) Finnell, 77, of Wabash, Indiana passed away at 3:50 p.m. on Tuesday, May 26, 2015 at Parkview Wabash Hospital in Wabash, Indiana. She was born to the late Truman and Bertha Leona (Miller) Burns on November 30, 1937 in Darke County, Ohio.

She attended nursing school at Earlham College in Richmond, Indiana, then graduated from Manchester University with a Bachelor Degree in Sociology. Lydia married James Lee Finnell on June 10, 1961, he survives in Wabash, Indiana. She retired as a registered nurse for Wabash County Hospital of Wabash, Indiana. Lydia was a faithful member of Wabash Church of the Brethren of Wabash, Indiana.

She is also survived by a son, Paul R. Finnell (Valerie) of Indianapolis, Indiana, grandsons, Truman and Lucas Finnell; a daughter, Cynthia A. Voght of Wabash, Indiana, grandson, James R. Walls, great grandson, Ethan J. Walls; four brothers, Robert G. Burns of Union City, Indiana, Chester D. Burns, Wayne E. Burns, and Gerald O. Burns all of Ohio; a sister, Miriam S. Holler of Piqua, Ohio.

A memorial service will be held at 3 p.m. on Saturday, June 6, 2015 at Wabash Church of the Brethren Church, 645 Bond Street, Wabash, Indiana 46992, with Pastor Kay Gaier officiating.
Calling hours for family and friends will be from 2 p.m. until 3 p.m. on Saturday at the church.
Preferred memorials are directed to Wabash Church of the Brethren, 645 Bond Street, Wabash, Indiana 46992.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.mcdonaldfunerals.com. Arrangements are being handled by McDonald Funeral Home, 231 Falls Avenue, Wabash, Indiana 46992.

Eugene M. Wiese

Eugene M. Wiese, 86, of Wabash, Indiana passed away at 3:11 p.m. on Sunday, May 24, 2015 in his home. He was born to the late Alvin John and Elizabeth Claira (Berndt) Wiese on July 3, 1928 in Chicago, Illinois.

Eugene served his country in the United States Army. He married Catherine L. Wiese, she preceded him in death; then he married Mary Louise Jacobs on February 12, 2001, she survives. Eugene was a machine designer for different companies throughout Indiana.  He was a member of the Zion Lutheran Church in Wabash, Indiana.

He is also survived by two sons, Thomas Diehl (Lesli Gritts) of California and John Alvin Wiese (Christa Linn) of Fort Wayne, Indiana; three daughters, Monica Diehl of Colorado, Dorothy Wiese of Bloomington, Indiana and Ruth Everett (Troy) of Indianapolis, Indiana; two step sons, Michael Dean Barnes and Mathew Jacob Barnes both of Kentucky; seven grandchildren, Michael Thomas Diehl, Ellen Everett, Ethan Everett, Catherine Wiese, Allison Wiese, Whitney Dyk and Jennifer Wulf; four great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a sister.

Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, May 27, 2015 at Zion Lutheran Church, 173 Hale Drive, Wabash, Indiana, with Rev. Jeremy Yeadon officiating. Burial will follow at Friends Cemetery in Wabash, Indiana.

Visitation for family and friends will be held from 10 a.m. until time of service on Wednesday at the church. Preferred memorials are directed to Zion Lutheran Church Food Pantry. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.mcdonaldfunerals.com
Arrangements are being handled by McDonald Funeral Home, 231 Falls Avenue, Wabash, Indiana 46992.

Gaynell Elliott

Gaynell Elliott, 61, of Wabash, Indiana passed away at 11:30 p.m. on Wednesday, May 20, 2015 at Visiting Nurse and Hospice Home in Fort Wayne, Indiana. She was born to Douglas Dillon of Wabash, Indiana and the late, Linda (Wintrode) Dillon on March 29, 1954 in Wabash, Indiana.

Gaynell was a graduate of Wabash High School. She married Kenneth Elliott, he survives in Wabash, Indiana. Gaynell retired from Container Corporation of American in Wabash, Indiana. She was a member of the Moose Lodge 1195 of Wabash, Indiana and American Legion Post 15 Auxiliary of Wabash, Indiana.

She is also survived by step son, Michael Elliott (Theresa) of Wabash, Indiana; step daughters, Mrs. Lisa (Jeff) Cook of Marion, Indiana and Mrs. Lori (Bryan) Stewart of Chattanooga, Tennessee; sister, Elizabeth Foust of North Manchester, Indiana; nephew, Brian Foust (Meghann); and 6 grandchildren. She was preceded in death by niece, Stacey Ann Foust.

Funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. on Sunday, May 24, 2015 at McDonald Funeral Home, 231 Falls Avenue, Wabash, Indiana 46992, with Pastor Brad Wright officiating. Burial will follow in the Memorial Lawns Cemetery in Wabash, Indiana.

Visitation for family and friends will be from 2 p.m. until 6 p.m. on Saturday, May 23, 2015 at the funeral home. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.mcdonaldfunerals.com

Zilla Zoe Welsh

Zilla Zoe Welsh, 86, of LaFontaine, Indiana passed away at 6:17 p.m. on Wednesday, May 20, 2015 at Marion General Hospital in Marion, Indiana. She was born to the late Milo and Lucy (White) Gruwell in LaFontaine, Indiana on November 21, 1928.

Zilla married Clifford Welsh, he passed away in 1978. She retired from United Tech.  Zilla cherished the “White” cousin get togethers and helping with the grandchildren. She was a member of the LaFontaine United Methodist Church and an alumnus of the LaFontaine High School. Zilla was a longtime member of the LaFontaine Order of Eastern Star, Liberty Bells extension homemaker club and Francis Slocum Home extension club. Zilla often spoke of the happy times she had riding horses and swimming in the waterhole on the farm with her best friend. She loved horses and always looked forward to mushroom hunting in the spring.

Zilla is survived by two sons, Bruce Eugene Welsh of Warsaw, Indiana and Sam Gruwell Welsh of LaFontaine, Indiana; granddaughter, Mrs. Tonya Adele (Phil) Douglas of Warsaw, Indiana; daughter-in-law, Karen Welsh of LaFontaine, Indiana. She was preceded in death by a grandson, Milo Vincent Welsh.

Funeral service will be 10 a.m. on Tuesday, May 26, 2015 at McDonald Funeral Home, LaFontaine Chapel, 104 S. Main Street, LaFontaine, Indiana 46940, with Pastor Crystal Jacobson officiating.

Visitation for family and friends will be from 2 p.m. until 6 p.m. on Monday, May 25, 2015 at the funeral home with an Eastern Star service being held at 5:30 p.m.. Preferred memorials are directed to LaFontaine Eastern Star or LaFontaine United Methodist Church. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.mcdonaldfunerals.com

Alma "Pat" Mahan

Alma “Pat” Mahan, 91, a Wabash, Indiana resident for most of her life, passed away at 9:20 p.m. on Sunday, May 17, 2015 at Millers Merry Manor East of Wabash, Indiana. She was born to the late Edward and Ethel (Keim) Wallace on September 2, 1923 in Somerset, Indiana.

She was a 1942 graduated from New Salem High School. Pat married Robert B. Mahan on January 11, 1946 at the Parsonage in Kansas City, Kansas, he passed away on November 24, 1993. Pat worked as a part-time cook for Honeywell Center in Wabash, Indiana. She was a member of Women’s Indiana Bowling League of Wabash and Marion, Indiana. Pat enjoyed Daytona Beach, she liked going to the casino, and mushroom hunting. She especially loved being with her grandchildren.

She is survived by two sons, Michael Mahan (Stephanie) of Florida and Jay Mahan (Tammie) of Wabash, Indiana; daughter, Darlene Chambers (Dennis) of Bowling Green, Ohio; 10 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by 4 brothers and 4 sisters.

Funeral service will be held at 7 p.m. on Thursday, May 21, 2015 at McDonald Funeral Home, 231 Falls Avenue, Wabash, Indiana 46992, with Pastor Brad Wright officiating. A private family burial will be held at Economy Cemetery in Modoc, Indiana.

Visitation for family and friends will be from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. on Thursday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are directed to Wabash County DCS Foster Children Program, 89 W. Canal Street, Wabash, Indiana 46992. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.mcdonaldfunerals.com

Gregory D. Starnes

Gregory D. Starnes passed away at 12:58 p.m. on April 26th, 2015, at Parkview Wabash Hospital. He was born July 31st, 1957 to James A. Starnes and Wanda (Beasley) Starnes in Illinois. Gregory married to Maria E. Perdue on March 3rd, 2006, she survives. He was employed at Bulldog Battery in Wabash, Indiana.
Along with his wife, Maria; he is survived by two brothers, Bill Starnes and Gordon Starnes, both of Illinois, two sisters, Rhonda Starnes and Gayla Craig.
No services will be held. McDonald Funeral Home, 231 Falls Avenue, Wabash, Indiana 46992 was entrusted with arrangements. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.mcdonaldfunerals.com

Christopher Lee Johnson

Christopher Lee Johnson, 48, of Wabash, Indiana died at his home at 10 a.m. on Friday, April 24th 2015. He was born on June 30th, 1966 in Wabash, Indiana to the late Gillen Ding Johnson Jr. and Virginia Gayle (Jacobs) Johnson.

Chris graduated in 1984 from Northfield High School, he also attended Vocational School. He was a farmer most of his life and worked for Pic Energy. He enjoyed spending time with his brother and loved the outdoors, gardening, boating, fishing, and his happy place was the family cabin in Michigan. Chris cherished each memory made with Adrena and Carlee, family and friends. He had a true servant’s heart always doing what he could to help others and touched many lives through his continuous acts of kindness and selfless generosity.

Chris is survived by one brother, John Johnson of Wabash, Indiana and two sisters. Also surviving are his special loves Adrena Shelton and her daughter, Carlee Crace.

Funeral service will be 2 p.m. on Thursday, April 30, 2015 at McDonald Funeral Home, 231 Falls Avenue, Wabash, Indiana, with Todd Masters officiating. Burial will follow in the Lagro Cemetery in Lagro, Indiana.

Visitation for family and friends will be from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. on Thursday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are directed to American Heart Association, 3816 Paysphere Circle, Chicago, Illinois 60674. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.mcdonaldfunerals.com

Thomas E. Ross Jr.

Thomas E. Ross Jr., 87, of Wabash, Indiana passed away at 12:25 a.m. on Friday, April 24, 2015 at Peabody Healthcare Center in North Manchester, Indiana. He was born to the late Thomas E. Ross Sr. and Louise (Hardin) Ross on May 6, 1927 in Cairo, Illinois.

Tom served his country in the United States Merchant Marines, then in the Marine Corp during the Korean War. He married Janet Creps on February 11, 1955, she survives. He was an owner and operator of Ross-McKee Associates Construction of Wabash, Indiana, after retirement he then worked for Shamrock Development of South Bend, Indiana as a consultant; then most recent at Wabash True Value during his retirement. Tom was a life member for over 50 years with the Hanna Masonic Lodge 61 of Wabash, Indiana. He was also a faithful member of Christ United Methodist Church of Wabash, Indiana.

Along with his wife, Janet; he is also survived by a son, Richard Hawley (Rebecca) of Huntington, Indiana; grandson, Aaron Hawley of Huntington, Indiana; two granddaughters, Mrs. Amy (Donald) Pyatt of Yoder, Indiana and Anna Hawley of Allendale, Michigan; two great granddaughters, Madison and Chloe Pyatt; and a half-brother, Lewis Row (Dorothy) of St. Petersburg, Florida. He is preceded in death by a son and sister.

A graveside service will take place at a later date at Matlock Cemetery in Wabash County, Indiana. Preferred memorials are directed to Christ United Methodist Church, 477 N. Wabash Street, Wabash, Indiana 46992. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.mcdonaldfunerals.com

Tom was an avid fisherman, enjoyed making silver jewelry, and wooden bowls. Tom loved life to the fullest every day, right up to the end.

McDonald Funeral Home, 231 Falls Avenue, Wabash, Indiana 46992 is entrusted with arrangements. 

Muriel E. "Mert" Tyson

Muirel E. “Mert” Tyson, 78, of Wabash passed away at 4:06 a.m. on Saturday April 18, 2015 at Parkview Dupont Hospital, Fort Wayne, Indiana.  She was born December 17, 1936 in Urbana, Indiana to the late Jacob L. Bower and Marion J. (Gaston) Bower.
She was a 1954 graduate of Urbana High School.  She married Charles E. Tyson on December 4, 1955, he survives.  She was employed by Peterson Realty and she was a secretary for the Board of Realtors of Wabash, Indiana.  She also worked at Sears and Roebuck, Wabash.  She retired in 2000.  She was a member of First United Methodist Church of Urbana, Indiana, and Women of the Moose, Lodge 1195,  Wabash, Indiana.  She enjoyed fishing and camping.
She is also survived by two sons, Charles Leon Tyson (Barbara), John “Jack” Tyson, both of Wabash, Indiana; one daughter Kristi Reynolds, Wabash, Indiana; seven grandchildren, Tonya Poor, Dawn Webb (Josh), Tommy Poor (Amanda), Andy Tyson (Erica), Samantha Fiers (Adam), Jonathon Tyson (Meghan), Joey Tyson; and 12 great grandchildren; brother, John (Judy) Bower of Wabash, Indiana; and sister, Beatrice Reed of Kokomo, Indiana.  She was preceded in death by one son, Timothy, one brother, Arden Bower, and two sisters, Doris Bever and EvaJean Rouch.
Visitation for family and friends will be from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. with a Moose Twilight Service at 7 p.m., Tuesday, April 21, 2015 at McDonald Funeral Home, 231 Falls Avenue, Wabash, Indiana 46992.  Funeral will take place at 10 a.m., Wednesday, April 22, 2015 at McDonald Funeral Home burial will be at Memorial Lawns, Wabash, Indiana.  Preferred memorial are to Wabash Moose Lodge Auxiliary 1195 or Riley Children’s Hospital.
Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.mcdonaldfunerals.com