Nancy Jean Hall

Nancy Jean Hall, 63, of LaFontaine, passed away at 5:32 p.m. on Tuesday, December 29, 2020 at Lutheran Hospital in Fort Wayne.  She was born on May 19, 1957, in Wabash, to the late Howard A. and Mary Ellen (Butterbaugh) Smith.

Nancy was a Southwood High School graduate.  She had a great sense of humor and when you left her, you had a smile on your face.  She enjoyed bingo, winning many times, and she loved family get-togethers.

Nancy is survived by her husband, Bill Hall; brothers, Thomas H. Smith of Wabash and Timothy J. Smith of South Bend; sisters, Judith (Mark) Dalton of Carriere, Mississippi, Joellen Larrison of Mt. Zion, Illinois, Sarajane Holloway, of Wabash, and Janelle Ferguson of Wabash.

Funeral services will be at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, January 4, 2021 at McDonald Funeral Homes, 231 Falls Avenue, Wabash, Indiana 46992 with Pastor Josh Fennell officiating.  Burial will follow at Memorial Lawns Cemetery in Wabash.

Calling hour for friends and family will be one hour prior to the funeral service at the funeral home.  

Preferred memorials are to the family of Nancy to help offset funeral costs.

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

Lois Virginia Miller

Lois Virginia (Haynes) Miller, 94, of Wabash, passed away at 7:15 p.m. on Sunday, December 27, 2020 at Rolling Meadows Health and Rehabilitation in LaFontaine.  She was born on November 17, 1926, in Wabash County, to the late George F. and Pearl (Milliner) Haynes.

Lois was a 1944 graduate of Lagro High School.  She worked at Kroger Egg Exchange and retired from Ford Meter Box. She attended Washington Street Wesleyan Church and Colerain Street Community Church.   

Lois is survived by one son, Shawn H. Miller, and one daughter, Lane E. Nicely, both of Wabash; four grandchildren, Scott Miller and Trevor Miller, both of Wabash, Jack Nicely and Ella Nicely, both of Reno, Nevada.  She was preceded in death by her sister, Ruthann Barker; two brothers, Walter Haynes and James Haynes.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, December 31, 2020 at McDonald Funeral Homes, 231 Falls Avenue, Wabash, Indiana 46992.  Burial will follow at the LaFontaine IOOF Cemetery.

Visitation will be from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, December 30, 2020 at the funeral home.

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

Suzanne Smith

Suzanne Smith, 68, of Wabash, passed away on Wednesday, December 23, 2020 at her residence.  She was born on January 18, 1952, in Milan, Indiana, to the late Wilbur and Georgia (Allen) Wingate.

Suzanne is survived by one son, Philip Chris (Rachal) Smith, of Warsaw; one daughter, Noelle (William) Hunter, of Wabash; three granddaughters, Bailey Good, of North Carolina, Maddison Hunter and Makenna Hunter, both of Wabash; two brothers, David Wingate, of Oklahoma and Matthew Myers, of Austin, Texas; and three sisters, Cheryl Saunders, of Wabash, Melissa (Brian) Middleton, of Wabash and Johnna (Darl) Fox, of Austin, Texas.  She was preceded in death by one sister. 

A private celebration of life service will be held at a later date at Church of Christ at Treaty.

Arrangements have been entrusted to McDonald Funeral Homes, 231 Falls Avenue, Wabash, Indiana 46992.

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

 

Howard L. Nickel

 Howard L. Nickel, 72, of rural LaFontaine and then resided at Bickford Cottage, passed away at 12:10 p.m. on Monday, December 21, 2020, from his battle with cancer.  He was born in Marion, Ohio, on June 14, 1948 to Philip and Lilly Mae (Owen) Nickel.  Howard married Sue Siefert on January 7, 1989 in Ohio. 

Howard graduated in 1966 from North Union High School in Richwood, Ohio.  He worked at United Technologies until he retired in 2013.  He served in the United States Army and was in Vietnam from 1969 to 1970. 

Howard is survived by his wife, Sue; two sons, Phil (Michelle) Nickel, of Texas and Brent (Tomica) Nickel, of Ohio; four grandchildren; one brother, Walter (Marcia) Nickel and one sister, Ann Kirkpatrick, both of Ohio.  He was preceded in death by his parents, one sister, Sue Bumgarner and two brothers-in-law. 

Per Howard's request, there will be no services.

Preferred memorials are to the donor's choice. 

Arrangements have been entrusted to McDonald Funeral Homes, LaFontaine Chapel, 104 South Main Street, LaFontaine, Indiana 46940.

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

Julia Anne Elliott

Julia Anne Elliott, 94, of Wabash, passed away at 8:45 p.m. on December 20, 2020 at Colonial Oaks Retirement Home in Marion, Indiana.  She was born in Hartford City on April 7, 1926, to the late Ben and Gwen (Mills) Martindale. 

Julia married Bill Gene Elliott on May 11, 1946; he passed away on July 21, 1980.  She retired from Wabash Magnetics after working there for over 39 years.  Julia was a member of the Wabash Christ United Methodist Church.  

Julia is survived by daughter, Ginny (Thomas) Ball, of Amboy; daughter-in-law, Sharon Elliott, of Wabash; five grandchildren, Kristi Ball, Chad (Melissa) Ball, Reggie (Courtney) Ball, Brian Elliott and Allison (Shawn) Floor; nine great-grandchildren, Maggie and Madeline Ball, Zach, Cameron, Audrey, Remmington, Jordan (Abbey) Floor, Treavor, and Clayton Floor; two great-great-grandchildren, Cash and Elliana Floor; and one sister, Joyce (Ralph) Penrod, of Hartford City.  She was preceded in death by one son, Danny Eugene Elliott.

Due to Covid restrictions, family is having a private graveside service to be held at Mississinewa Memorial Cemetery in Somerset.  

Funeral services have been entrusted to McDonald Funeral Homes, 231 Falls Avenue, Wabash, Indiana 46992.

Preferred memorials are to Wabash County Blessings in a Backpack - http://www.blessingsinabackpack.org/ or to the Special Olympics of Wabash County - http://soindiana.org/who-we-are/

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

Imogene "Joyce" Bradford

Imogene "Joyce" Bradford, 87, of LaFontaine, passed away at 12:04 a.m. on Sunday, December 13, 2020 at Miller's Merry Manor in Marion, Indiana.  She was born on April 1, 1933, in Grant County, to the late Claude and Hazel (Cox) Godwin.  Joyce married Joseph F. Bradford on January 24, 1953; he passed away on November 26, 1999.  

Joyce is survived by two sons, Joe (Connie) Bradford, Jr. of Matthews and Jay (Sylvia Newman) Bradford of LaFontaine; sister, Mary Goodknight of Indianapolis; seven grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.  She was preceded in death by two sisters.

Due to Covid restrictions, the family will have a private graveside service at Grant Memorial Park in Marion, Indiana 46953. 

Funeral services have been entrusted to McDonald Funeral Homes, 231 Falls Avenue, Wabash, Indiana.

In lieu of flowers, preferred memorials are to the Caroline Symmes Cancer Endowment, https://www.carolinesymmes.org

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

Helen M. Bruss

Helen M. Bruss, 82, of Wabash, passed away at 2:20 p.m. on Thursday, December 10, 2020 at Bickford Cottage in Wabash.  She was born in Allen County, Indiana on September 25, 1938, to the late Alfonse and Ada (Sweeney) Wolf.  

Helen married Raymond P. Bruss on September 27, 1958; he passed away on February 19, 2017.  Helen was a longtime librarian at the Wabash Carnegie Library, and she was an avid reader

Helen is survived by her children, Valerie Hamilton of Fort Wayne, Raymond (Ann) Bruss of Ridgeland, Mississippi, Kevin (Linda) Bruss of Warsaw, David (Christine) Bruss of Trenton, Michigan, and Matthew (Bethany) Bruss of Wabash; grandchildren, Sarah Bluhm, John Cantrell II, Philadelphia Kirby, Rachael Shoue, Aaron Cantrell, Cassie Bruss, Joseph Bruss, Nickolas Bruss, Savannah Bruss, Amanda Cantrell, Margaret Bruss, Jacob Bruss, and Rebecca Bruss; and 14 great-grandchildren.  Helen was preceded in death by a son, Andrew Bruss, granddaughter, Charity Bruss, great-grandson, Aden Shoue, two brothers and one sister.

Private graveside service to be held at Falls Cemetery in Wabash.

Preferred memorials are directed to F.I.S.H. of Wabash, 770 1/2 W. Hill Street, Wabash, Indiana 46992. 

Arrangements have been entrusted to McDonald Funeral Homes, 231 Falls Avenue, Wabash, Indiana 46992.

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

Daniel Joseph Price

 Daniel Joseph (Red) Price, 61, Wabash, Indiana, passed away on Saturday, December 5th, 2020 at Parkview Randallia Hospice, Fort Wayne, Indiana.  He was born on November 28, 1959, in Wabash, to Roger and Edna Ann (Mullett) Price (later Manning.)

Danny was a lifelong Wabash area resident and attended Wabash schools before joining the U.S. Army in 1977.  He served in the Federal Republic of Germany for three years as a wrecker operator and Pershing Missile crew member.   He married Janice Music in Springfield TN, on June 30, 1984.  Danny (known as Red to everyone but his siblings) worked at Wabash General Tire until he was medically retired.  Red was mechanically inclined and enjoyed working on automobiles, always looking for the next deal on another cherry.  He also was the lead singer and rhythm guitar player for the High-Water Band, which played around Wabash for several years.  If there was a guitar around, you can be assured Red would start strumming.

He was proceeded in death by his father, Roger Ivan Price, on November 29, 1989, and his wife, Janice on November 10, 2018.  He is survived by their four children. Jennifer (Doug) Gatchel, of LaFontaine, Daniel (Carrie Ann) Price, Roger (Jennifer) Price, and David A Price, all of Wabash; eight grandchildren, Allie, Jaxon, James, Abel, Scarlett Price, Nikki, Tyler and Andy Gatchel. He is also survived by his parents, Danny and Edna Manning of Wabash; siblings Patrick Verlyn, of North Manchester, Michael Roger, of West Liberty, Iowa, Nannette (Richard) Grindle, of Wabash, Andy J (Deborah) Price, of Manhattan, Kansas, and Thomas Frank (Terry Lynne), of North Las Vegas, Nevada. 

In accordance with Red’s wishes, there will be a small family service after it is safe to travel.  Preferred memorials are to ARC of Wabash, 595 S. Miami Street, Wabash, Indiana 46992, arcwabash.org.

Services have been entrusted to McDonald Funeral Homes, 231 Falls Avenue, Wabash, Indiana 46992.

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

Philip L. Gardner

Philip L. Gardner, 81, of LaFontaine, passed away on Thursday, December 3, 2020 at St. Vincent Hospital in Anderson, Indiana. He was born on June 9, 1939, in Marion, Indiana, to the late Paul and Freda (Kem) Gardner.

Philip graduated from Oak Hill High School and he served in the United States Marines.  Philip married Arlene Smeeton on September 3, 1960.  Philip was owner of Gardner Construction and Gardner Enterprise and was member of the National Rifle Association and served as past President of the Rifle Association in Marion.   

Philip is survived by his wife, Arlene; two daughters, Debra Coleman of Indianapolis and Leslie (Enver) Dokovic of Irvine, California; stepmother, Doris Gardner of Elkhart; two step-brothers, Rick (Tammy) Gardner, and Greg Gardner, both of Marion; step-sister, Lisa Gardner of Elkhart; five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.  He is preceded in death by two brothers and one sister. 

Per Philip's request, there will be no services.  

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to McDonald Funeral Homes, LaFontaine Chapel, 104 South Main Street, LaFontaine, Indiana 46940.

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

 

Wilma Jean Guenin

Wilma Jean Guenin, 95, of LaFontaine, passed away at 1:45 p.m. on Wednesday, December 2, 2020 at her residence.  She was born on September 20, 1925, in Pendleton, Indiana, to the late Frederick and Bertha (Dot) Arven. 

Wilma graduated from LaFontaine High School.  She married John E. Guenin on October 9, 1946; he passed away on September 21, 2010.  Wilma retired from the LaFontaine Post Office after 29 years of service.  She was a member of the LaFontaine Christian Church.

Wilma is survived by her son, Dan (Pat) Guenin of Wabash and daughter, Donna (Gary) Nose of LaFontaine; four grandchildren, Ike Erb of Cincinnati, Ohio, Cindy Erb of LaFontaine, Tyler (Brooklyn) Guenin of Urbana and Beau (Dawn) Guenin of Indianapolis; three step-grandchildren, Sarah Oliver of LaFontaine, Susan (Jason) Worster of Warren and Steven (Carol) Nose of LaFontaine; four great-grandchildren, Oakley Guenin, Jersey Guenin, Nixon Guenin and Malkai Stephens and eight step-great-grandchildren.  She was preceded in death by one brother and five sisters.

Private family graveside services will be held at LaFontaine IOOF Cemetery.

Preferred memorials are to LaFontaine Christian Church Youth Group, 202 Bruner Pike, LaFontaine, Indiana 46940.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to McDonald Funeral Homes, LaFontaine Chapel, 104 South Main Street, LaFontaine, Indiana 46940.

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

Richard Samuel Hipskind

Richard Samuel Hipskind passed away peacefully on a calm Sunday morning, the 15th of November 2020, at 75 years of age. The son of Karl and Marion (Armstrong) Hipskind, Sam lived an honorable life and set a proud standard. He leaves this world better than he found it.

Sam was raised in a big Catholic family in Wabash, IN. He is survived by his siblings: Tom, Mike, Mary, Elizabeth, and Margaret. He is predeceased by his parents and brother Dan, who passed away while serving in the US Navy.

Sam was an unapologetic American Patriot who was proud of his country. He was more than happy to let you know it. Some of his patriotism was rooted in his honorable service in the US Navy, where he enlisted out of high school (Wabash High School ’63) alongside his brother Dan. Sam was a wartime veteran who served on the swift boats in Vietnam, one of the most dangerous tours of duty anyone can be asked to do. His service eventually led to an Honorable Discharge.

After leaving the Navy and returning to Wabash, Sam became a proud husband to Janice Elaine Weitzel in 1968. They would spend the next 52 years devoted to their marital vows to one another. They would proudly conceive seven children: Dan (Rhonda), Sam (Shelley), Jeff (Kary), Mark (Laura), Tim (Wendy), and Ashlee (Shane Kennedy). Their children blessed them with 24 grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Sam and Jan's son Chad passed away before birth.

One of Sam's key tenets and character traits that he would instill and pass on to his children was the value of hard work and dedication. Sam was committed and stayed loyal to J.M. Reynolds Oil Co, where he diligently worked for 37 years leading to his eventual retirement.

Notably, Sam was a devout Catholic who was a member of the St Bernard Catholic Church every day of his 75-year life. Sam set a standard of commitment to his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, with all of his heart. Sam’s most valued tenet was that his family follow his example and remain dedicated to the faith. He remained steadfast in his daily prayer with the Holy Rosary and the Blessed Virgin Mary.

It was this commitment to Jesus that allowed Sam to pass away peacefully in his bed, in his home of over 40 years that he worked hard to raise a family in, next to his loving wife of 52 years.

Mass of Christian Burial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, November 19, 2020 at St. Bernard Roman Catholic Church, 191  North Cass Street, Wabash, Indiana 46992, with Father Levi Nkwocha officiating. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, masks will be required to attend mass.  Graveside interment will follow at Memorial Lawns Cemetery in Wabash.  

Calling hours will be Wednesday, November 18, 2020 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. with Recitation of the Rosary at 7:00 p.m. at McDonald Funeral Homes, 231 Falls Avenue, Wabash, Indiana 46992.

Preferred memorials are to the St. Bernard Catholic Church, 207 North Cass Street, Wabash, Indiana 46992.

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

Eric D. Fawley

 Eric D. Fawley, 38, of Wabash, passed away on Saturday, November 7, 2020 at his residence.  He was born on September 15, 1982, in Wabash, to the late Roger E. Fawley and Linda (Starr) Hughes. 

Eric attended Northfield High School. He was a maintenance worker at Huntington Aluminum in Huntington. Eric loved fishing, camping and sports. Eric had many friends and family that he loved spending time with and that loved him and will miss him.

Eric is survived by mother and stepfather, Linda and Arthur Hughes, of Wabash; son, Colten Fawley, of Wabash, sisters, Darcy Hughes and Abbonie Hughes, both of Wabash; brother, Roger Fawley, of Wabash; maternal grandmother, Chattie Harrell, of North Manchester; nephews, Jonathan Fawley and Jared Fawley, both of Lafayette; niece, Ebbonie Fawley, of Lagro; stepbrother, Charles (Trisha) Hughes, of Silver Lake; aunt, Fay Starr, of North Manchester; uncles, Jimmy (Pauline) Starr, Ray (Stella) Starr and Garry (Tina) Starr, all of Wabash.  He was preceded in death by two brothers, Rodney Fawley and Jamie Fawley and maternal grandpa, Charles E. Harrell.

Funeral services will be at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, November 13, 2020 at McDonald Funeral Homes, 231 Falls Avenue, Wabash, Indiana 46992.  Burial will follow at Mt. Etna Cemetery.

Visitation for family and friends will be two hours prior to the funeral service, starting at 9:00 a.m., at the funeral home.

Preferred memorials are to McDonald Funeral Home to offset the funeral expenses for Eric.

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

Joseph W. Dice

Joseph W. Dice, 52, of LaFontaine, passed away on November 5, 2020, at his residence.  He was born in Huntington, Indiana on June 30, 1968, to the late John F. and Mary June (White) Dice-Small.

Joseph drove truck for Homier of Huntington and he enjoyed cars and loved music. 

Joseph is survived by two sisters, Joyce L. (James) Bell of LaFontaine and Janice M. Dice of Fort Wayne; one niece, Sheena Bell of Van Buren.  He is preceded in death by niece, Laura Jolliff.  

Per Joseph's request, there will be no services.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to McDonald Funeral Homes, LaFontaine Chapel, 104 South Main Street, LaFontaine, Indiana 46940. 

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

Barbara A. Duncan

 Barbara A. Duncan, 56, of Muncie, Indiana, passed away at 2:25 p.m. on Wednesday, November 4, 2020 at IU Health Ball Memorial Hospital in Muncie.  She was born in Fort Wayne, Indiana on July 21, 1964, to Ray and Doris Jane (Anderson) Duncan. 

Barbara was a graduate of Northrop High School and she worked for Reliance Machine Shop in Muncie.

Barbara is survived by three sons, Steven (Ashlee) Barnell,  Anthony (Lyndsay) Barnell and Andrew Barnell, all of Muncie; father, Ray Duncan of Warsaw, one brother, Michael (Ronda) Duncan of Savannah, Georgia; two sisters, Lisa (Paul) Edsall of Muncie and Patti (Jerry) Case of Fort Wayne; and seven grandchildren.  Barbara is preceded in death by one daughter, Jennifer Barnell and her mother.

Funeral services will be at 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, November 8, 2020, at McDonald Funeral Home, 231 Falls Avenue, Wabash, Indiana 46992, with Pastor John Cook officiating.

Visitation for family and friends will be two hours prior to the funeral service, starting at 2:00 p.m., at the funeral home.

Preferred memorials are to the donor's choice. 

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

Dale L. Kroft

 Dale L. Kroft, 83, of Wabash, passed away at 1:55 p.m. on Tuesday, October 20, 2020 at his residence.   He was born in Wabash on July 23, 1937, to the late Lester L. and Mary (Crabill) Kroft.

Dale was a graduate of Noble High School. He married Donna Rhoades on February 24, 1957; she passed away on August 20, 2009.  Dale served in the Air National Guard and as a former member of the Soil and Water Conservation Board in Wabash.  He was a lifetime farmer and was a member of the Asbury Country Church.  

Dale is survived by three sons, Doug (Amy A.) Kroft of Wabash, Dan Kroft of North Hollywood, California and Darin Kroft of King George, Virginia; daughter-in-law, Amy L. Kroft of Wabash; seven grandchildren, Tyler (Laura) Kroft of Wabash, Kristin (Jon) Goodrich of Indianapolis, Cody Kroft of Indianapolis, Michael Kroft of Wabash, Rebecca Kroft, of Bloomington, Kayla Kroft and Ryan Kroft, both of King George, Virginia; four great-grandchildren, Presley Kroft, Jensen Kroft, Dallis Kroft and Denver Goodrich; and one sister, JoAnn (Merrill) Hobbs.  Dale is preceded in death by two sons, Dennis Kroft and David Kroft.  

Funeral services will be at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, October 26, 2020 at McDonald Funeral Home, 231 Falls Avenue, Wabash, Indiana 46992 with Pastor Mike Bullick officiating.  A private family internment will follow at Center Grove Cemetery, Wabash.  

Visitation for family and friends will be from 2:00 to 6:00 p.m. on Sunday, October 25, 2020, at the funeral home.

Preferred memorials are the Asbury Country Church, 3200 S. 300 E., Wabash, Indiana 46992 or Wabash County Cancer Society, PO Box 144, North Manchester, Indiana 46962.  

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

Charles Wilbert Cochran

 Charles Wilbert Cochran, 93, of LaFontaine, passed away at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, October 16, 2020 at Rolling Meadows Health and Rehabilitation in LaFontaine.  He was born in Blackford County, on November 24, 1926, to the late Leroy and Bessie (Richards) Cochran. 

Wilbert married Helen C. Reed on March 9, 1947; she passed away on June 10, 2018.  Wilbert worked as a farmer and he was a member of the LaFontaine United Methodist Church.  

Wilbert is survived by his son, Dennis (Sherol) Cochran, LaFontaine; four grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.  He is preceded in death by one son, Michael Cochran; one grandchild, John David Cochran; one sister and three brothers.

Per the family's request due to COVID-19, there will be a graveside service held at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, October 20, 2020 at LaFontaine IOOF Cemetery with Pastor Susan Shambaugh officiating.  

Preferred memorials are to the LaFontaine United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 57, LaFontaine, IN  46940.

Services have been entrusted to McDonald Funeral Homes, LaFontaine Chapel, 104 S. Main Street, LaFontaine, Indiana 46940.

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

Mary Lou Fulton

Mary Lou Fulton, 93, of Engadine, Michigan, passed away on Saturday, October 10, 2020 at Newberry Assisted Living Community in Newberry Michigan.  She was born August 12, 1927 in Napoleon, Ohio to the late Francis and Fernelia (Kile) Farison.  

Mary Lou was a 1944 graduate of Napoleon High School and attended Fort Wayne International Business College.  She married Edwin J. Fulton on September 29, 1946, in Napoleon, Ohio; he passed away in 1987.  Mary Lou was employed as a bookkeeper, for General Tire, in Wabash, for two years, and later for United Tool Company, also of Wabash, for 42 years, until her retirement.  

Mary Lou had been a resident of Engadine since 2006 and was a member of the Engadine United Methodist Church.  

She is survived by her son, Aaron (Nancy) Fulton of Engadine and daughter, Cheryl Ann (Randall) Rider of Fort Wayne; grandchildren, Joshua Rider, Andrew (Jeannette) Rider, Micah Rider, Andrea Fulton and Doug (Kailey Poort) Fulton and great-grandson, Elijah Rider.  

A graveside service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, October 23, 2020 at LaFontaine IOOF Cemetery, in LaFontaine, with Pastor Susan Shambaugh officiating.  

Preferred memorials may be directed to Engadine United Methodist Church in her memory, 110 West Harrie Street, Newberry, Michigan 49868.  

Local arrangements have been entrusted to McDonald Funeral Homes, LaFontaine Chapel, 104 South Main Street, LaFontaine, Indiana 46940.  

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

Phillip A. Johnson

 

Phillip A. Johnson, 50, of Wabash, passed away on Sunday, October 4, 2020.  He was born in Marion, Indiana on April 29, 1970, to the late Jerry W. Johnson and Rebecca (Briggs) Warren.  

Phillip retired from Wabash Alloys and was a member of the UAW Boilermakers Union.  He loved animals and especially his cat, Missy.

Phillip is survived by his mother, Rebecca; one son, Brandon Johnson, of Meadowbeck, Tennessee; one daughter, Jessica Paige, of Meadowbeck, Tennessee; one brother, Jammy A. Johnson, of Wabash; one sister, Lori L. Shepler, of Wabash and paternal grandmother, Sara Middleton, of Marion, Indiana.    

There will be an announcement of a memorial service to be held at a later date.  

Arrangements have been entrusted to McDonald Funeral Homes, 231 Falls Avenue, Wabash, Indiana 46992. 

Preferred memorials are to the Wabash County Animal Shelter. 

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

Phyllis Moore

 Phyllis Moore, 84, a lifetime resident of Wabash, passed away at 4:00 a.m. on Tuesday, October 6, 2020 at Wellbrooke of Wabash.  She was born on October 30, 1935, in Wabash, to the late Howard R. and Lula (Hollenback) Akers. 

Phyllis was a 1954 graduate of Wabash High School.  She married Berton M. Moore on June 30, 1956; he passed away on August 22, 2015.  Phyllis was member of the New Life Baptist Church of Wabash.  Phyllis enjoyed crocheting, making baby blankets and quilts for friends and family. 

Phyllis is survived by three sons, William (Karen) Moore of Roann, Brian Moore of Urbana, and Chris Moore of Wabash; one daughter, Lorna (Mark) Worrick of Wabash; one sister, Miriam Williams of Wabash; nine grandchildren, Roger Moore, Calian Wuensch, Derrick Moore, Nichole Parsons, Megan Payne, Tabitha Zehr, Paige Worrick, Hayden Moore and Kolby Bryant; nine great-grandchildren.  She was preceded in death by one daughter, Luanne Hammonds and one sister. 

Funeral services will be at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, October 9, 2020 at McDonald Funeral Home, 231 Falls Avenue, Wabash, Indiana 46992 with Pastor Philip Wright officiating.  Burial will follow at Gardens of Memory in Marion.  

Visitation for family and friends will be from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, October 8, 2020, at the funeral home. 

Preferred memorials are to the American Diabetes Association. 

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

Brenda J. Newman

 Brenda J. Newman, 72, of Warsaw, passed away at 11:11 p.m. on Monday, October 5, 2020 at her residence.  She was born on November 19, 1947 in Auxier, Kentucky to the late Richard and Nettie (Sluss) McKenzie.

Brenda married Randy E. Newman on September 3, 1986.  She worked as a home healthcare worker and was a homemaker.  Brenda was a very giving and loving lady that always tried to help people and loved her family very much.  

Brenda is survived by her husband, Randy Newman; one son; Keith (Veronica) Gidley, of Wabash; one daughter, Kimberly (Steve) Hively, of Warsaw; three brothers, Herb McKenzie and Richard McKenzie, both of Wabash and William (Judy) McKenzie, of Lagro; two sisters, Ethel McKenzie, of Wabash and Della (Ivan) Lance, of North Manchester; four grandchildren, Aaron Simpson, Breanna Gidley, Kari Simpson, and Brandon Hughes; and six great-grandchildren.  She was preceded in death by four sisters, Kathy Dotson, Carol Butzuis, Esta Erman and Betty Webb.   

Per Brenda's request and wishes, there will be no services.  

Arrangements have been entrusted to McDonald Funeral Homes, 231 Falls Avenue, Wabash, Indiana 46992.

Preferred memorials are to the Wabash County Cancer Society, P.O. Box 144, North Manchester, Indiana 46962. 

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

Gene E. Riggs

Gene E. Riggs, 87, of LaFontaine, passed away on Thursday, September 10, 2020 at his home.  Gene was born on December 20, 1932, in Anderson, Indiana to the late Chester W. and Alma (Beaty) Riggs, Sr.

Gene served in the United States Army.  He married Marilyn V. Chambers; she passed away on December 21, 1982.  Gene then married Patricia A. Leahy on July 4, 1986; she passed away on September 27, 2004.  Gene worked as a supervisor in HR at Foster Forbes.  He attended First Church of God in Fairmount.

Gene is survived by four sons, Robin (Sheila) Riggs, of LaFontaine, Guy (Linda) Riggs, of South Bend, Indiana, David Riggs, of Elkton, Maryland and Xen (Stephanie) Riggs, of New Albany, Ohio; one brother, Robert Riggs, of Brownstown, Indiana; eight grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.  He was preceded in death by two brothers.  

A memorial service is pending and has been entrusted to McDonald Funeral Homes, LaFontaine Chapel, 104 South Main Street, LaFontaine, Indiana 46940. 

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

Stanford L. Hamilton

Stanford L. Hamilton, of LaFontaine, Indiana, passed on September 7, 2020 at Rolling Meadows Health & Rehab in LaFontaine, Indiana.

Stanford was born to Howard and Mary Margaret (Hambleton) Hamilton on July 1, 1927 in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He married Alta Terrel on August 22, 1948. She passed away in 2009. Stanford retired from being a farmer and truck driver. He was a member of the Dora Christian Church. He served in the United States Navy. 

He is survived by 4 daughters, Trudy Kaye Walker, of LaFontaine, Indiana, Mrs. Terry (Toni Lynn) Schaaf, of Marion, Indiana, Mrs. Mickey (Kim Leigh) White, of Terre Haute, Indiana, and Mrs. Larry (Dana Rae) Camble, of Eureka, Michigan; 15 grandchildren; many great-grandchildren; and 3 great-great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife, his parents, 1 son; Keli Dee Hamilton, 3 brothers, and 4 sisters. 

Funeral services will be at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, September 11, 2020 at McDonald Funeral Home, LaFontaine Chapel, 104 South Main Street, LaFontaine, Indiana 46940, with calling one hour prior to the service starting at 9:00 a.m.  Pastor Mark Wisniewski will be the officiant. Burial will follow at Center Grove Cemetery in Lincolnville, Indiana.

Visitation for friends and family will be from 5:00 - 7:00 pm Thursday, September 10, 2020 at the funeral home.

Preferred memorials are to the Donor's Choice. 

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

Sarina M. Bitzel

 Sarina M. Bitzel, 70 of Lincolnville passed away at 10:47 a.m. on Monday September 7, 2020.

She was born in Wabash County to Orville and Doris (Carpenter) Tucker on September 19, 1949. Sarina married James Bitzel in 1967. He passed away in 2003.

Sarina enjoyed reading, cross word puzzles, watching movies, mushroom hunting, and hanging out with her family. 

She is survived by 1 son. Dave Bitzel of Warsaw, Indiana; 1 daughter-in-law, Karen Bitzel, of LaFontaine, Indiana; and 2 granddaughters, Amanda and Alyssa Bitzel of Lafontaine, Indiana; 2 sisters. Sherry (Roger) Baumbauer of Lincolnville, Indiana; and Doretta Tucker, of Wabash, Indiana. She was proceeded in death by her parents, husband, son (Dean Bitzel), and a brother (Dan Tucker). 

Per Sarina's request, there will be no services. 

Arrangements are entrusted to McDonald Funeral Home Lafontaine Chapel 104 South Main St. LaFontaine, Indiana.

F. Louise Friermood

 F. Louise Friermood, 92, of Wabash, passed away on Wednesday, September 2, 2020 at Bickford Cottage in Wabash.  She was born in Wabash, on September 12, 1927, to the late Warren and Lora (Lawson) Ogan.  

Louise was a 1946 graduate of Linlawn High School.  She married William H. Friermood on August 23, 1947; he passed away on December 15, 2005.  Louise was a homemaker and worked as a cook at Southwood Elementary.  She was a member of Church of Christ at Treaty, Tri-Township Club and the Senior Center of Wabash County.  Louise and her husband loved camping with friends and family.

Louise is survived by five sons, Ron Friermood, of Wabash, Gary (Kathy) Friermood, of Wabash, Joe Friermood, of LaFontaine, Lester (Vickie) Friermood, of North Manchester and Greg (Jody) Friermood, of LaFontaine; sister, Vivian Proffitt, of Wabash; sisters-in-law, Coleen Campbell and Nancy Ogan, both of Wabash; grandchildren, Alissa (Eric) Stalter, of Fort Wayne, Heidi (Kevin) Gusa, of McKinney, Texas, Kyle Friermood, of Indianapolis, Kevin Friermood, of New Orleans, Louisiana, Lori Groves, of McKinney, Texas, Andy Friermood, of Wiley, Texas, Kris Friermood, of Van Buren, Kristie (Stan) Carlson, of Gas City, and Justin (Keri) Friermood, of Wabash; eight great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by four brothers and five sisters.

Funeral Services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, September 9, 2020 at McDonald Funeral Home, 231 Falls Avenue, Wabash, Indiana 46992 with Pastor Brad Wright officiating.  Burial will follow at Mississinewa Memorial Cemetery.

Visitation will be from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, September 8, 2020 at the funeral home.

Preferred memorials are to the Living Well Senior Center of Wabash County, P.O. Box 447, Wabash, Indiana 46992.

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

Dominick Ray Hubbard

Dominick R. Hubbard, 23, of Wabash, passed away at 2:42 p.m. on August 20, 2020 at Parkview Regional Medical Center in Fort Wayne.  He was born on April 12, 1997, in Wabash, to Richard (Nichole) Hubbard, Jr., and the late Tabetha Flynn.

Dominick was a loving father, son and brother.  He had a big heart for his family and friends. Dominick was also an exceptional wrestler and cross country runner for Wabash High School.

Dominick is survived by his father, Richard (Nichole) Hubbard, Jr., of Wabash; daughter, Zariah Hubbard, of Wabash; girlfriend, Alexis Ballard, of Wabash; paternal grandparents, Richard (Kathy) Hubbard, Sr., of Wabash and Alicia Zapata, of Dilly, Texas; maternal grandfather, Mike Flynn, of Wabash; maternal grandmother, Shawna Campbell, of Wabash; paternal great-grandparents, Juan (Alicia) Zapata, of Wabash and Maria (Chayo) Rodriguez, of Dilly, Texas; brothers and sisters, Richard Hubbard, III, Destiny Hubbard, Courtney Webb, Treyton Thrush, Nevaeh Mettler, Isaeh Mettler,  Bryley Jackson, Serenity Hubbard, Angel Hubbard, K'leigh Hubbard and Gabriel Hubbard.  He is preceded in death by his sister Delilah Hubbard. 

Funeral services will at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, August 26, 2020 at McDonald Funeral Home, 231 Falls Avenue, Wabash, Indiana 46992 with Pastor Danny Honeycutt officiating. Burial will follow at Memorial Lawns Cemetery in Wabash.

Visitation will be one hour prior to the funeral service starting at 10:00 a.m. at the funeral home.

Dianna K. Spencer

Dianna K. Spencer, 74, a lifetime resident of Wabash, passed away at 7:38 a.m. on Thursday, August 20, 2020 at Autumn Ridge Health and Rehabilitation in Wabash.  She was born on February 18, 1946, in Wabash, to the late Robert L. and Alice (Miller) Campbell.

Dianna worked at HIZ in Wabash and as a homemaker.  She attended Calvary Chapel Church in Wabash and volunteered at Americare.

Dianna is survived by seven daughters, Alice Spencer, of Prestonsburg, Kentucky, Kimberly Butcher, of Indianapolis, Tina Easterday, of Wabash, Barbara Heeter, of Peru, Teresa Morris, of Sandy Beach, Indiana, Jennifer Dillingham, of Wabash and Amanda Poor, of Fort Wayne; one sister, Barb Gilbert, of Wabash; Eight grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.  Dianna was preceded in death by one sister, Carolyn Hale.

Funeral services will at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, August 24, 2020 at McDonald Funeral Home, 231 Falls Avenue, Wabash, Indiana 46992.  Burial will follow at Friends Cemetery in Wabash.

Visitation for friends and family will be from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. on Sunday, August 23, 2020 at the funeral home.  

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

Billie Ray Bowling

Billie Ray Bowling, 87, of Wabash, passed away at 9:35 p.m. on Sunday, August 16, 2020 at Miller's Merry Manor - East, in Wabash.  He was born in Hyden, Kentucky, on September 22, 1932, to the late Lawton and Ida (Gibson) Bowling. 

Billie served five years in the United States Marine Corp and was a retired iron worker.

Billie is survived by two sisters, Irene Burge, of Lynn, Indiana, and Ann Wathen, of Lebanon, Kentucky.  He is preceded in death by his wife, Linda Lou Bowling, who passed away on November 19, 2009; five brothers and three sisters.

Per Billie's request, there will be no service. 

Arrangements have been entrusted to McDonald Funeral Homes, 231 Falls Avenue, Wabash, Indiana 46992.

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

Robert E. Haneline

 Robert E. Haneline, 78, of Wabash, passed away at 7:25 p.m. on Tuesday, August 18, 2020, at his residence.  He was born in Huntington, Indiana, on August 27, 1941, to the late Leo P. and Daisy M. (Harrell) Haneline.  

Robert married Donna J. Hunt on May 11, 1963; she passed away on October 27, 2019.  Robert retired as a salesman for Monarch Food Services.

Robert and Donna loved visits from their friend, Melissa Rigle, who they fondly referred to as their daughter.

Robert is survived by one son, Thomas (Pamela) Haneline, of Wabash; two grandchildren, Keaton Wilkerson and Ayden Haneline, both of Wabash; three brothers, Leo Haneline, Jr., of Indianapolis, Ronald Haneline, of Huntington and Alan (Janet) Haneline, of Columbia City.  He is preceded in death by one son, Richard Lee Haneline. 

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 22, 2020 at McDonald Funeral Home, 231 Falls Avenue, Wabash, Indiana 46992 with Ralph Johnson, Jr. officiating.  Burial will follow at Friends Cemetery in Wabash.

Visitation will be from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Friday, August 21, 2020 at the funeral home. 

Preferred memorials are to the Wabash County Animal Shelter, 810 Manchester Avenue, Wabash, Indiana 46992. 

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

Frank L. Vest

 Frank L. Vest, 80, of LaFontaine, passed away at 10:30 p.m. on Monday, August 10, 2020 at Marion General Hospital in Marion, Indiana.  He was born on June 29, 1940 in Terre Haute, to the late Emory and Eugenia (Beem) Vest.  

Frank was a graduate of Glen High School in Terre Haute.  He married Donna Vest who passed away on June 20, 1986.  Frank worked as a Journeyman for Midland Glass in Terre Haute and Ball Foster Glass Company in Marion, Indiana.  

Frank is survived by companion of 33 years, Joan Bradley, of LaFontaine; one brother, Mike Vest, of Terre Haute; and two sisters, Betty Joe Poe and Judy Ennen, both of Terre Haute.  He is preceded in by two sons, Gary Vest and Kevin Vest and one brother, David Vest. 

Per Frank's request, there will be no services.  

Burial will be at a later date at Roselawn Memorial Cemetery in Terre Haute, Indiana.  

Arrangements have been entrusted to McDonald Funeral Homes, 231 Falls Avenue, Wabash, Indiana 46992. 

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