Geneva I. Stetzel, 89, North Manchester passed away Aug. 27, 2019 at Peabody Healthcare Center, North Manchester. She was born on June 23, 1930, to Theodore and Laura (Rupley) Brooks in Huntington County.

A year after graduating from Clear Creek High School in 1948, she married Myron D. Stetzel on Feb. 20, 1948. The two were married for 33 years before Myron passed away on Nov. 13, 1983.

She enjoyed taking care of her family and teaching them the value of hard work and dedication.  She was kind-hearted and generous with her time and talents, even when she was struggling physically she made it a priority to help others, especially when it came to being an accomplished seamstress.

No matter the circumstance or how she was feeling, she could be found with a loving smile. She relished her times of watching Indiana University basketball or any other team that would be on, with her granddaughter Jo. She was notorious for never missing church on Sunday and she taught her family about being spiritually strong and faithful. She was a member of the Cornerstone Grace Church in South Whitley formerly Pleasant View Church.

Geneva Stetzel will be dearly missed by her son, Galen (Connie) Stetzel, North Manchester; her daughter, Imogene (Russell) Knight, North Manchester; her two brothers, Robert (Alberta) Brooks and Donald (Luwona) Brooks both of Huntington; and her five grandchildren Jo Knight, Matt (Stacy) Stetzel, Jill (Dane) Simcoe, Mindy (Jamie) Boyd, and Demara (Anthony) Fowerbaugh and eleven great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, three brothers Garl Brooks, Denver Brooks, Cecil Brooks, and one sister Norma Pohler.

Friends and family may call from 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Saturday, Aug. 31, at McKee Mortuary, 1401 State Road 114 West, North Manchester, IN 46962. Funeral services will begin at the conclusion of calling and Pastor Edward Robertson will officiate. Burial will be held at Fairview Cemetery, County Road 300 and County Road 1000, Servia.

For those who wish to honor the memory of Geneva, memorial contributions may be made to Cornerstone Grace Church, 7050 West 1000 South, South Whitley, Indiana 46787.

Fred Short, formerly of Wabash, passed away at 12:45 p.m., Thursday, Aug. 29, 2019, at Peabody Retirement Community in North Manchester.

He was born April 29, 1929, to Newton and Kathryn (Smith) Short in Delphi, and lived his entire life near or in Wabash County. He was one of 12 siblings and loved being part of a large family. He grew up on a farm and started his first paying job on the Minnick Farm in Somerset. Fred graduated from Somerset High School class of 1948, where he played Varsity Basketball. Fred married Lillian M. Harnish on July 4, 1954; she died Jan. 3, 2018.

Fred Short is survived by his five children: Stanley (Nancy) Short of Nashville, Tenn.; Diana (Jim) Stump, Ryan (Tracy) Short, Maria Short, and Peggy (Tadd) Eads all from Wabash County; eight grandchildren: Cari Freer Casablanca, Morocco; Air Force Major Liza Short of Tampa, Fla.; Abby (Blake) Bitzer of Noblesville; Allison (Corbin) Dawes of Andrews; Cami (Jason) Wulfeck of Edgewood, Ky.; Army Specialist Chase Stump of Colorado Springs, Colo.; Steffan (Ciara) Short of Noblesville; and Brooklyn (Tyler) Guenin of Urbana; six great-grandchildren: Odessa Freer, Reagan Wulfeck, Brontly Bitzer, Oakley Guenin, Jackson Wulfeck, and Jersey Guenin who brought Fred great joy, and his brother, Ralph (Pat) Short of Camarillo, Calif.

He was preceded in death by his parents, five brothers: Raymond, Ross, Phillip, Richard, and Kenneth Short; two sisters, Jessie and Jean Short and three half-brothers, Charlie, George and Paul Lester.

He served in the United States Air Force from 1948-1952. He was stationed at an island off Japan during the Korean War as a Radio/Communication Specialist, leaving the Air Force as a Staff Sergeant.

Upon return from his military service, he worked for Honeywell Factory, Wabash Materials Cement Company, Wabash Friends Church, CSC Fertilizer, Wabash City Schools, MSD of Wabash County, and Gaunt & Sons all of Wabash County. Fred was hired onto the Wabash Police Department in 1957, was promoted to Sergeant, Captain, and retired as Chief of Police. He retired in 1977 after serving 20 years on the department. Fred was a member of the Fraternal Order of Police, Wabash Lions Club, the International Union of Operating Engineers, and the Wabash American Legion. He was a long-time member of the Wabash Friends Church, then attended the First Church of God in his later years. He loved farming, Sunday afternoon drives around Indiana, NASCAR racing, and watching all his grandchildren’s activities.

Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 5, at Grandstaff-Hentgen Funeral Service, 1241 Manchester Avenue, Wabash, with Pastor Dave Philips officiating. Burial will be in Memorial Lawns Cemetery, Wabash. Friends may call 3-8 p.m., Wednesday, at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to: Visiting Nurse and Hospice Home of Fort Wayne, Peabody Foundation, or the Alzheimer’s Association.

Martha Jane Helm, 93, Wabash, died at 4:06 a.m., Friday, Aug. 30, 2019, at Bickford Cottage in Wabash. She was born June 19, 1926, in Wabash, to John and Mabel (Walker) Farr.

She was a graduate of Chippewa High School, she then attended Manchester College where she studied art. She married Donald Richison Helm in Wabash on July 31, 1949; he died May 25, 1998.

She was a member of the Wabash Presbyterian Church and the Wabash Art Guild. She enjoyed her children and grandchildren, and also painting with oil and watercolors

She is survived by six children: Terry (Charles) Foster of Wabash; Janet (Tom) Haupert of North Manchester; Mary (Gregg) Pfafman of Auburn; John (Tammy) Helm of Greenwood; David (Renee) Helm and Jeff Helm, both of Wabash; 16 grandchildren: Eric Burkhart, Tony Burkhart, Tim Burkhart, Lindsey Schenkel, Sara McCoart, Samantha Hamm, Joshua Leland, Whitney Lahrman, Evan Haupert, Jessica Helm, Zachary Pfafman, Rachel Pfafman, Victoria Pfafman, Matt Helm, Breann Schlemmer, and Taylor Helm; step-grandson, Travis Vail; 16 great-grandchildren; two step-great-grandchildren; sister-in-law, Betty Bass of Wabash; and son-in-law, Tom Burkhart of Shelburn.

She was also preceded in death by her parents, two daughters, Cheryl Burkhart and Peggy Beverly, and two grandchildren, Andy Burkhart and Lisa Ferverda.

Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m., Friday, Sept. 6, 2019, at Grandstaff-Hentgen Funeral Service, 1241 Manchester Avenue, Wabash, with Jonathan Cornell officiating. Burial will be in Gardens of Memory Cemetery, Marion. Friends may call 4-8 p.m., Thursday, Sept. 5, at the funeral home.

Preferred memorials are Cystic Fibrosis Foundation or Wabash Presbyterian Church.

Wayne M. Montel, 86, North Manchester, passed away at 12:02 a.m., Aug. 30, 2019, at Peabody Healthcare Center, North Manchester. He was born to Albert and Bertha M. (Miller) Montel Sr. on March 31, 1933, in Silver Lake.

She served in the United States Army from 1953 to 1955 and spent most of his time in postwar Germany. After his service, Wayne was a member of the American Legion Post #402 in Laketon. He was a lifelong self-employed farmer and owner of Montel Tractor and Truck, North Manchester. He had a deep love for his tractors and trucks.

Wayne Montel will be missed by his sons: Jeff (Libby) Montel, Columbia City; and Greg (Cathy) Montel, Wabash; one daughter Julie Sommers, Lafayette; one sister Lois Gearhart, Warsaw; six grandchildren: Noah Sommers, Caleb (Sara) Sommers, Matt Montel, Josh Montel, Brie Montel, and Lainey Montel, and one great-grandchild June Sommers.

Friends and family may call from 4-7 p.m., Tuesday, Sept. 3, at McKee Mortuary, 1401 State Road 114 West, North Manchester. Funeral services will be at 10 a.m., Wednesday, Sept. 4, at McKee Mortuary and Pastor Jody Tyner will officiate. Burial will be held at Pleasant Hill Cemetery, 997 West State Road 114, North Manchester, IN 46962.

Arrangements are entrusted to McKee Mortuary.

Delbert Bolen, and affectionately known by many as “Bubba” of Mentone, passed away at 8:50 a.m. on Friday, Aug. 30, 2019, at Miller’s Merry Manor of Warsaw at the age of 72.

He was born on Sept. 28, 1946, in Floyd County, Ky. to Bertha (Chafins) Bolen and Rant Bolen. On Oct. 7, 1964, in Rochester he was married to Norma Elaine Bolen. They shared 54 years of marriage together before she passed away on June 28, 2019.

He lived most of his life in Kosciusko County. He was always a hard worker and provided for his family throughout his life as owner and operator of several small businesses: Bolen Trash Removal in Mentone; Bubba’s Tree Service and Behive Store and Restaurant in Beaver Damn Lake.

Later in life he worked for several years as a supervisor at Fairmont Homes in Nappanee retiring in 2007. He shared his wife’s passion of celebrating family occasions and holidays with food and fellowship. He lived a long full life and may not have always been easy but it was all for his family that will dearly miss him.

He will be lovingly remembered by his four daughters: Peggy (Mark) Davis, Warsaw; Norma (Lonny) Hodges, Mentone; Regina Bolen, Mentone; April (Michael) Meade, Mentone; and his son: Noble (Debbie) Bolen, North Manchester. Also surviving are 20 grandchildren; 25 great-grandchildren; two brothers: Mitchell Bolen, Rochester; Elmer Bolen, Portsmouth, Ohio; and his sister: Elsie Slone, Pippa Passes, Ky.

He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, Norma Elaine Bolen on June 28, daughter, Evelyn Elaine Bolen on Sept. 3, 2008, three grandchildren and several brothers and sisters.

Visitation will be held from 3-7 p.m., Tuesday, Sept. 3, at Redpath-Fruth Funeral Home, 225 Argonne Road, Warsaw.

His funeral service will be conducted at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 4, at Redpath-Fruth Funeral Home and officiated by Mark Davis and Pastor Ballard Wood. Burial will follow with a graveside service at Palestine Cemetery in Palestine.

Memorial donations may be directed to Special Olympics – Indiana/Kosciusko County, 6965 E. South Barbee Drive, Pierceton, IN 46562.

Wayne Stephan

Wayne A. Stephan, 65, North Manchester, passed away at 11:15 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 4, 2019, at Parkview Regional Medical Center, Fort Wayne. One of five children, Wayne was born in Huntington, Indiana on April 5, 1954 to J. Eldon and Jessie L. (Brodrick) Stephan.

Wayne graduated from Manchester High School in 1972. A year later on Nov. 9, 1973, he married his best friend and love of his life, Diana K. Biehl. The two were wed 45 years. During their marriage, Wayne worked for the town of North Manchester on the street department. He retired on Sept. 1, 2017 after 19 years of service. One of Wayne’s greatest passions was restoring vintage tractors, especially John Deere. Wayne loved the time spent with his family and enjoyed helping people in need.

Wayne’s loving memory will be forever cherished and carried on by his wife, Diana K. Stephan, North Manchester; son, Michael John (Susan) Stephan, North Manchester; two daughters, Christina Lynn (Kyle) Barlow, Wabash and Angela Dawn (Shannon) Wilson, Auburn; one brother, Curtis (Susan) Stephan, Goshen; one sister, Carolyn (John) Renz, North Manchester; four grandchildren and numerous family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents and two sisters, Wilma Renz, passed away in 1984 and Dianna Bechtold, passed away in 2016.

Family and friends may call from 2 to 8 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 8, at McKee Mortuary, 1401 SR 114 West, North Manchester. Funeral services will begin at 11 a.m. Monday, Sept. 9, at McKee Mortuary with calling one hour prior to the service. Pastor J.P. Freeman will officiate. Burial will be at Fairview Cemetery, CR 300E and CR 1000N, Servia.

For those who wish to honor the memory of Wayne A. Stephan, memorial contributions may be made to Daniel’s Place, 113 W.t Main St., North Manchester, IN 46962.

Peggy Music

Peggy Sue Music, 72, North Manchester, passed away Sept. 4, 2019, at her residence.

On Feb, 24, 1947, Peggy was born in Knott County, Kentucky at her home to Thomas R. and Bonnie (Gayheart) Kelly.

On April 30, 1977, Peggy married Ray Music. Peggy’s life was her family and her faith in God. She loved going to church and cooking for her family. Peggy was a homemaker and in her earlier years worked at Eaton Controls for 15 plus in North Manchester and lived in North Manchester for 34 years. She was a woman that didn’t talk about herself, but instead listened to others, always putting others before herself.

Peggy is survived by her husband Ray Music, North Manchester; one daughter Lori (James) Curtis and two sons Clinton (LaTasha) Music and Matt (Ruth) Music all of North Manchester; two sisters Phyllis (Bob) Detro, Marion, Sharon (Mike) Spaulding, Fowlerton; one brother Colin (Donna) Kelly, Mario; 10 grandchildren, numerous foster grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents Thomas and Bonnie Kelly.

Friends and family may call from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, Sept. 7, at McKee Mortuary, 1401 SR 114 West, North Manchester. Funeral services will begin at the conclusion of calling and burial will be held at Oaklawn Cemetery, 600 Beckley Street, North Manchester. Reverend John Denniston will officiate the service.

For those who wish to honor the memory of Peggy, memorial contributions may be made to Grand Street Baptist Church, 1655 Grand street, Wabash, IN 46992.

Arrangements are entrusted to McKee Mortuary.

Freya Tatiana Sielesnew, stillborn, North Manchester, passed away at 10:43 a.m., Saturday, Sept. 7, 2019, in Parkview Wabash Hospital, Wabash. Freya is the daughter Alex and Rebecca (Parrett) Sielesnew.

She is survived by her parents: Alex and Rebecca Sielesnew of North Manchester; siblings: Elena Ibtisan, Shelby Hogle, Libby Sielesnew, Jamison Sielesnew, Ethan Sielesnew, Paxton Hogle, Jessie Sielesnew, John Sielesnew, Alex Sielesnew III; maternal grandparents: Rex Parrett of Larwill; and Sandi Hibbs of Ligonier; paternal grandparents: Randy and Mary Bowman of Pierceton; and paternal great-grandmother: Alice Metzger of Haines City. Fla.

The graveside service will be held at 10 a.m. on Friday, Sept. 13, at Snodgrass/Etna-Troy Township Cemetery, Columbia City, with Pastor Rex Parrett officiating.

All arrangements are entrusted to McHatton-Sadler Funeral Chapel, Warsaw.

Peggy J Baker, 93, North Manchester, died at 5:30 a.m., Tuesday, Sept. 10, 2019, at her home. She was born Sept. 5, 1926, in Wabash, to George and Gertrude “Gertie” (Sabo) Campbell.

She married Richard D. “Dick” Baker in Wabash, on April 14, 1961. She retired from General Tire in Wabash after 30 years. She was a member of the Congregational Christian Church in North Manchester. She enjoyed square dancing with her husband as members of the Slicks and Chicks Square Dance Club of North Manchester. She also was a member of the Red Hat Club and the Woman’s Clubhouse Association. She enjoyed volunteering at Helping Hands, doing crafts, and spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

She is survived by her husband, Richard D. “Dick” Baker of North Manchester; three children: Melissa (Tom) Rice of Lagro; Randall (Susan) Jeffrey of Lincoln, Neb.; and Gary L. (Susan) Baker of Union, Ky.; six grandchildren: Brian (Michelle) Rice of Andrews; Chris (Jenny) Rice of Wabash; Allison (Marko) Milincic of Chicago, Ill.; Haley (Jimmy) Haggard of Hebron, Ky.; Jason (Melissa) Jeffrey and Tom (Katie) Jeffrey, all of Lincoln; and 11 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her daughter, Linda Sue Jeffrey, and her granddaughter, Kelly Jeffrey.

Funeral services will be 10 a.m., Monday, Sept. 16, at Grandstaff-Hentgen Funeral Service, 1241 Manchester Avenue, Wabash, with Pastor J.P. Freeman officiating. Burial will be in Gardens of Memory Cemetery, Huntington County, Indiana. Friends may call 2 – 5 p.m., Sunday, at the funeral home.

Preferred memorial is Cancer Services of Northeast Indiana.

Ruth Isabelle Barnett, 98, Wabash, died at 6:37 pm, Tuesday, Sept. 10, 2019, at Peabody Healthcare Center in North Manchester. She was born Aug. 29, 1921, in Wabash County, Indiana to Henry and Rosa K. (Hipskind) Stouffer.

She was a 1939 graduate of Linlawn High School. She married L. Milton “Bud” Barnett in Wabash County on Aug. 9, 1941; he died May 3, 2007. She retired from First National Bank in Wabash after 23 years. She was a member of the Wabash Friends Church. Ruth was a Wabash Co. Hospital Auxiliary Volunteer many years. She enjoyed cross-stitching, playing scrabble, making crackerjack and having cracker jack parties, pie baking, and traveling to Minnesota, with her husband Bud, in the fall.

She is survived by her daughter, Joan B. Younce of Warsaw; two grandchildren, Michael R. (Ann Marie) Younce of Superior, Colo.; and Emily B. (Ryan) Kennedy of Valparaiso;, four great-grandchildren, Alexandra Younce and Matthew Younce, both of Superior; and Cade Kennedy and Ian Kennedy, both of Valparaiso; and her sister, Frances Stewart, of Monon.

She was also preceded in death by her parents, daughter, Judy Barnett, two brothers, Joe Stouffer and Robert Stouffer, and three sisters, Katherine Vrooman, Elizabeth Miller, and Alice Petry.

Funeral services will be 2 p.m., Monday, Sept. 16, at Grandstaff-Hentgen Funeral Service, 1241 Manchester Avenue, Wabash, with David Phillips officiating. Burial will be in Friends Cemetery, Wabash. Friends may call 2-6 p.m. Sunday, at the funeral home.

Preferred memorial is Wabash Friends Church.

Lana (Lawver) Groombridge passed away Sept. 9, 2019, after an eight-year battle with cancer.

She was born Aug. 29, 1945, in Huntington. She is survived by her husband, Graham; her children Erin (Matt) Eberly of Fishers and Greg (Brooke Smith fiancé) Groombridge of Fort Wayne; her grandchildren, Kaine, and Tatum Eberly; and her sister, Ann Lawver of Coralville, Iowa.

She was preceded in death by her father and her mother, Henry and Margie Lawver of Huntington.

Raised on a dairy farm in Lancaster Township, she was a ten-year member of 4-H and was very active in the Salamonie Church of the Brethren youth group. She was a camp counselor for many summers at Camp Alexander Mack in Milford and at Camp Dick Runyan in North Webster.

She earned her Bachelor’s degree from Manchester College (now University) in physical education prior to teaching one year at Lane Junior High in Fort Wayne. She was very service oriented and joined the Peace Corps in 1967 teaching and coaching for three years in Western Samoa while assisting in curriculum development.

While serving her third year she met her future husband, Graham, who was a Volunteer Service Abroad accountant from New Zealand. They corresponded for two years while Lana completed her Master’s Degree from Indiana University in recreation.  They married in 1972 and returned to live in New Zealand for four years where she taught and coached at Avondale College in Auckland.

In 1976 they returned to the U.S. where Lana began a teaching and coaching career at Manchester University. As Women’s Athletic Director she transitioned the women’s extramural sports program to an intercollegiate program and expanded the number of sports offered for women. She served on state athletic committees to begin a collegiate women’s athletic conference.  She began her coaching career in volleyball and basketball but later became an assistant in track and field. She was inducted into the Manchester University Athletic Hall of Fame in 2013. She retired from Manchester College in 2008.

After receiving her doctorate from Ball State University, she became a full professor and chair of the Department of Exercise and Sport Sciences where she focused on teacher preparation, mentoring new staff to be better teachers, and guiding students to get involved in professional organizations. She was proud to have had five of her staff members complete their doctorates before moving to other universities. She was very involved in her state physical education association where she served in many positions, included students in her yearly state presentations, and received numerous awards including the Leadership Award in 2002; the Honor Award in 2004; and the Legacy Award in 2009, which is the highest honor awarded by the State Association.

Her passions included music (she sang in the Manchester Church of the Brethren choir), gardening, tennis, cooking and quilting.  Lana liked to stay busy so she started a retirement business, Dr. Lana’s Wellness for the Home, in which she cleaned houses, prepped them for sale, painted, and gardened for many clients. Some would call her a workaholic but she was most happy doing odd jobs for other people who needed assistance.

As busy as she was with these activities, her family was a major joy and priority.  She loved spending time with her children, grandchildren and extended family in both the US and New Zealand.

Friends and family may call from 1-2 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 14, at the Manchester Church of the Brethren, 1306 Beckley Street, North Manchester, with funeral service beginning at the conclusion of calling. Following the service, there will be visitation. Pastor Karen Eberly will officiate the service.

In lieu of flowers, please leave memorials to: Manchester Church of the Brethren Refugee Support Fund, 1306 Beckley Street, North Manchester or Camp Alexander Mack, P.O. Box 158, Milford, IN 46542 or Sierra Club, 2101 Webster St Suite 1300, Oakland, CA 94612

Donald E. Roth, 100, North Manchester, passed away at 12:40 a.m. on Sept. 14, 2019, at Timbercrest Healthcare Center, North Manchester. One of eight children, he was born on June 3, 1919, to Klor H. and Sylvia B. (Conrad) Roth in Darke County, Ohio.

A resident of Wabash County since 1959, Mr. Roth was a retired farmer and for many years owned and operated Roth Motor Shop located on Ogden Road near Laketon, where he was well known for chainsaw servicing and repair. As a hobby, he did extensive and unique metal fabricating from his shop. On Oct. 3, 1940 Donald Roth married Eileen L. Wade. She passed away Dec. 12, 1993. After the passing of his first wife, he married Janice M. (Miller) Baker on April 2, 1994. She later passed away on July 23, 2017.

The memory of Donald E. Roth will be carried on by his two daughters, Judy K. Glenn, Delphi; and Leanna (Donald) Stouder, Huntington; step-son, David O. (Kathy Baker, Sioux Falls, S.D.; three step-daughters, Reva M. Lannen, Lafayette; Evelyn L. (Neal) Longenecker, North Manchester; and Beverly J. (Larry) Long, Lima, Ohio; one sister, Phyllis (Ralph) Brunk, Union City; eight grandchildren and nine step-grandchildren; eleven great-grandchildren and several step-grandchildren; three great-great grandchildren and several great-great grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his parents; two wives; one step-daughter, Yvonne O. Gallimore; three sisters and three brothers.

Family and friends may call from 2-5 and 6-8 p.m., Monday, Sept. 16, at the Old German Baptist Brethren Church, State Road 13 North, North Mancheste. Funeral services will begin on Tuesday, Sept. 17, at the Old German Baptist Brethren Church. The Home Brethren will officiate. Burial will be at the Old German Baptist Brethren Cemetery, State Road 13 North, North Manchester, Indiana.

For those who wish to honor the memory of Donald E. Roth, memorial contributions may be made to Timbercrest Charitable Assistance Fund, P.O. Box 501, North Manchester, Indiana 46962.

Willodean Ruth Allen, 86, rural North Manchester, passed Monday, Sept. 16, 2019, at her residence.

She was born on July 19, 1933, to Robert Glen and Lilly Fern (Lohor) Ault at home in Kosciusko County.

She married on Dec. 10, 1974, in Rochester, to Danny Joe Allen, he survives.

She was a farmer’s wife as well as being a homemaker. She also cleaned homes and had worked at General Tire in Wabash. She was a graduate of Beaver Dam High School in 1953. In earlier years she attended the Beaver Dam United Methodist Church. She enjoyed growing irises and gladiolus. On the farm she worked with her husband maintaining their registered Hereford cattle.

She is survived by her husband: Danny Allen, North Manchester; grandsons: Christopher Ray (Kristi) Ault Reese, Leesburg; Jeremy Lee (Mary) Ault Reese, Akron; Joseph Ray (Cassie) Ault, Rochester; Dawson James Ault, Rochester; granddaughter: Krista M. Ladig, Kendalville; 17 great-grandchilren; brothers: John Ault, Akron; Richard (Barbara) Ault, Akron; sisters: Mary Shoemaker, Roann; Elsie Broadbelt, Plymouth.

She was preceded in death by her parents; sons: Steven Ray Ault and Freddie Allen Cole Ault; brother: Benjamin Franklin Ault; sisters: Wanda Jeanette Ault Kern, Kate Kurtz, Laura May Swihart, and Marjorie Faye Mathias,

Survivors and place of residence:
Husband – Danny Allen – North Manchester, Ind.
Grandsons – Christopher Ray Ault Reese and wife Kristi Leesburg, Ind.

The funeral service will be at 11 a.m.,, Saturday, Sept. 21, at Hartzler Funeral Home 305 West Rochester Street Akron, with Pastor Kathy Nelson officiating. Burial will follow the service in the Akron Cemetery, Akron, Visitation hours will be from 10-11 a.m., Saturday, Sept. 21, at Hartzler Funeral Home, Akron.

Donations can be made in her memory to Parkview Home Health & Hospice 1900 Carew St, Fort Wayne, IN 46805.

Daniel Henry Miller, 72, rural Wabash, died at 5:30 p.m., Wednesday, Sept. 18, 2019, at his home. He was born Aug. 16, 1947, in Wabash, to Elda Woodrow and Elizabeth (Stouffer) Miller.

He was a 1965 graduate of Southwood High School, and also received a Nursing Home Administrator Certificate. He was a US Army veteran serving as a medic in Vietnam, where he received a purple heart.

He married Marilyn Birt at the Wabash Friends Church on Nov. 18, 1977. Dan worked at Ford Meter Box in Wabash, retiring in 2012 after 28 years, and also farmed. He was a birthright member of the Wabash Friends Church. He enjoyed his John Deere 620 tractor and his 1994 Lincoln Town Car, boating on the reservoir, meeting his friends at Burger King for breakfast, and the dogs he had over the years, but farming was his passion.

He is survived by his wife, Marilyn Miller of Wabash; three sons: Bradley Miller of Wabash; Matthew (Jessica) Miller of Penrose, Colo.; and Andrew Miller of Sherman Oaks, Calif.; three grandchildren: Brett Miller, Khloe Miller, and Olivia Miller, all of Penrose; and three sisters: Beth (David) Purcell of Kirkwood, Mo.; Susan Fagin and Marianne Briscoe, both of North Manchester.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and his brother, Tom Miller.

Funeral services will be 2 p.m.,Tuesday, Sept. 24, at Grandstaff-Hentgen Funeral Service, 1241 Manchester Avenue, Wabash, with Pastor Chris Howell officiating. Burial will be in Friends Cemetery, Wabash. Friends may call 2-8 p.m. Monday, at the funeral home.

Preferred memorials are Cancer Services of Northeast Indiana or Parkview Hospice Service.

Dr. David Paul Rodriguez, 69, North Manchester, passed away at 4:50 p.m. on Sept. 17, 2019, at Lutheran Hospital, Fort Wayne. Born in Brooklyn, N.Y., on April 28, 1950, he was the son of Anthony and Ruth (Toro) Rodriguez

The following is written by his three daughters:

Words can’t express what an amazing man he was.  He was truly a gift to this world and left this world a better place.

Married on June 2, 1973 to Christine Dockweiler, our mom was the love of his life and wife of 46 years.  He was a sweet and gentle husband.  Mom says he got excited about the smallest things and couldn’t understand when she didn’t share his excitement.  And though he was raised by a perfectionist he didn’t seem to pick up that trait but mom loved him in spite of it.

As his girls we have so many treasured memories with him.  Those memories include but not limited to horseback riding, playing cards, road trips, watching movies, tickling torture sessions, and singing with him.  He taught us how to love unconditionally and show kindness no matter what the situation.

As “Papi” to his eight grandchildren he was a magician, goofball, playmate, encourager, happy, and loving.  Just being around him brightened their lives.

To his mom he was the “perfect” son. To his siblings he was fun-loving, trustworthy, compassionate, and truly a godly man. They loved spending time with him.

Dad was full of creativity and adventure. He loved kite-flying, sailing, clay creations, card making, magic tricks, keyboarding, singing, golf, tennis, and frisbee. But of all the things he loved the Lord and his family the most.

He was known as hon by his wife, dad by his girls, papi by his grandchildren, candy man at Manchester Bible Church, where he was a member, Dr. Dave by many, and he was known as a second “father” to many who needed extra love and nurturing. No matter what you called him he was loved by all.

Dad was a lover of Jesus and longed for everyone to have a personal relationship with Christ.  His passion for the Lord lead him to hold multiple roles at Manchester Bible Church for over 40 years including elder and song leader.  His light illuminated the world around him.  We are all better for having been loved by him.

In 1977 Dr. Rodriguez graduated from Palmer College of Chiropractic in Davenport, Iowa. From here he moved to North Manchester where he owned and operated his own Chiropractic business. For 35 years Dr. Rodriguez served the town of North Manchester faithfully before retiring in 2013.

Dr. David P. Rodriguez’s fun-loving, compassionate, and gentle memories will be continued on by his mother, Ruth Rodriguez, North Manchester; step-mother, Nellie Rodriguez, Homestead, Fla.; wife, Christine Rodriguez, North Manchester; three daughters: Angela “Angi” (Jeremiah) Wilson, Oswego, Ill.; Carrie (Matthew) Haren, Fort Wayne; and Jeanne (Matt) Beery, Warsaw; one brother Marc (Pam) Rodriguez, New Port Richey, Fla.; one sister Ruth Spring, New Fairfield, Conn.; and eight grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his father, Anthony Rodriguez; one sister, Micky Ransberger; and one brother-in-law, John Spring.

Family and friends may call from 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 21, at McKee Mortuary, 1401 State Road 114 West, North Manchester. A celebration of life memorial service will begin at 4 p.m. at Manchester Bible Church, 11721 North 300 East, North Manchester. Pastor Lane Lingofelter and Marc Rodriguez will officiate.

For those who wish to honor the memory of Dr. David Paul Rodriguez, memorial contributions may be made to Manchester Bible Church, 11721 North 300 East, North Manchester, IN 46962.

Arrangements are entrust to McKee Mortuary.

Evelyn S. Dingess-Elliott, 70, North Manchester, passed away at 2:46 p.m. on Sept. 21, 2019, at Parkview Wabash Hospital, Wabash. Daughter of Lonnie P. and Fannie B. (Wallen) Robinson, Evelyn was born in Silver Lake, March 8, 1949.

After graduating from Manchester High School in 1967, she married Bobbie G. Dingess on Aug. 22, 1969. The two were wed for thirty-four years before Bobbie passed away on Dec. 30, 2003. She found love again, she married William “Bill” Elliott on July 30, 2016. Even though they were married three years, they built a lifetime of memories and happiness together.

She spent twenty-seven years working for Sunnyside Egg Farm, North Manchester and then worked for Sunshine Cleaning for three years, before retiring in 2013. She was a warmhearted woman that enjoyed spending time, talking to, and helping others. This could be seen by the 20+ years she spent volunteering at the North Manchester Fellowship Food Pantry. Evelyn also was a member and volunteered her time at American Legion Post #286 and Vice President of North Manchester American Legion Auxiliary Post #286. She was a member at Laketon Wesleyan Church, Laketon. She loved spending time outside, especially tending to her beautiful flowers. She will be missed by everyone that knew her and her dog Abby.

Evelyn’s kindness and warmhearted spirit will be forever remembered by her husband, William “Bill” Elliott, North Manchester; three sons, Patrick (April Ceslick) Dingess, Roann; Dennis (Karen) Hathaway, Midland, Texas; and Doug (Maudie) Elliott, Claypool; one daughter, Kristi Myers, Bluffton; one brother, Robert L. (Cheryl) Robinson, South Whitley; eight sisters, Frankie (Charles) Vanderpool, Wabash; Ethel Prater, Silver Lake; Lillie (Kelly) Jackson, Wabash, Janie (Lynn) Wheeler, Warsaw; Lucy (Max) Gyer, Huntington; Eva Jean (Craig) Black, Valparaiso; Jessie (Jack) Sellers, Pierceton; and Barbara (Charles) Stackhouse, Laketon; eleven grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

Evelyn Dingess-Elliott experienced much heartache in the loss of her two sons, Dennis and Bobby Dingess; daughter, Penny Ogan; brother, Oscar Robinson; one grandchild; her parents; and husband, Bobbie G. Dingess.

Family and friends may call from 3-7 p.m., Wednesday, Sept. 25, at McKee Mortuary, 1401 State Road 114 West, North Manchester. Following the conclusion of calling, funeral services will begin at 7 p.m. at McKee Mortuary. Pastor Dave Cox will officiate. Burial will be at Fairview Cemetery, Servia, at a later date.

For those who wish to honor the memory of Evelyn S. Dingess-Elliott, memorial contributions may be made to Fellowship Food Pantry, 410 North Market Street, North Manchester, I

Bonnie L. Frieden, 88, North Manchester, passed away peacefully at 12:30 a.m. Sept. 27, 2019, at Peabody Healthcare Center, North Manchester.

One of four children, she was born on July 16, 1931, in North Manchester, to George and Opal (Krom) Frieden.

She was a lifelong resident of North Manchester and graduated from Chester High School class of 1951. For 50+ years she provided care and nurturing to many children of the community as a child care provider. She was recognized for 35 years of service in the nursery at North Manchester United Methodist Church. Although she didn’t have any children of her own, she thought of each one and cared for them as if they were her own. She also cleaned houses for 50+ years. Faith was always a cornerstone in her life. She could be seen at North Manchester United Methodist Church, where she was a member, before her health declined.

She is survived by her brother: Leo Frieden, North Manchester; and several nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her parents and two brothers: Keith and Ted Frieden.

Family and friends may call from 10 to 11 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 3, at Peabody Chapel, 400 W. 7th St., North Manchester. Funeral services will begin at the conclusion of calling. Pastor Randy Myers will officiate. Burial will be at Oaklawn Cemetery, 600 Beckley St., North Manchester.

For those who wish to honor the memory of Bonnie L. Frieden, memorial contributions may be made to Visiting Nurse and Hospice Home, 5910 Homestead Road, Fort Wayne, IN 46814 or North Manchester United Methodist Church, 306 E. 2nd St., North Manchester, IN 46962

Robert Wirsing, 55, North Manchester, passed away on Sept. 13, 2019, at his residence.

The son of Robert A. and Irene (Childres) Wirsing, he was born July 23, 1964.

Family and friends may call from 5 to 6 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 1, at McKee Mortuary, 1401 SR 114 W., North Manchester. A memorial service will follow the conclusion of calling at 6 p.m. Pastor J.P. Freeman will officiate. Burial will be at Swank Cemetery, North Manchester, at a later date.

Wilbur LeRoy “Roy” Shepler, 98, Wabash, went to be with the Lord at 5:25 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 28, 2019, at Wellbrooke of Wabash.

He was born July 20, 1921, in Logansport, to Alonzo Edward and Kathryn (Hirt) Shepler.

He married Martha Helen VanRoe in Wabash 79 years ago on July 29, 1940. He retired in 1983 from Diehl Machines after 30 years. He was a member of Wabash Church of the Brethren. He enjoyed restoring antique cars, especially Model A Fords and restoring garden tractors. He also enjoyed camping and traveling, and they visited 49 states, Canada, and Mexico.

He is survived by his wife: Martha Shepler, Wabash; three children: Beverly (Donald) Richardson, North Manchester; Jerry LeRoy (Peggy) Shepler: Wabash; and Vicki Sue Warner, Fort Wayne; 10 grandchildren: Scott (Judy) Richardson: Wabash; Jeff (Dawn) Richardson, Pendleton; Candi (Clary) Eltzroth, North Manchester; Stacy (Ann) Shepler, Wabash; Travis (Angie) Shepler, Roann; Brad (Shelley) Shepler, Cory (Jamie) Shepler, and Richard (Lori) Shepler, all of Wabash; Jennifer (Ian) Hope, Fort Wayne; and Jarrod Colvin, Wabash; and several great and great-great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a son: Richard Lee Shepler; a great-grandson: Dustin Lee Shepler; three sisters: Mildred Preiser, Olive Hancock, and Ruby Worthen; and a brother: Harold Shepler.

Funeral services will be at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 3, at Grandstaff-Hentgen Funeral Service, 1241 Manchester Ave., Wabash, with Pastor Doug Veal officiating. Burial will be in Friends Cemetery, Wabash. Friends may call from 4 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, at the funeral home.

Preferred memorial is Alzheimer’s Association.

Caroline Sue Johnston, 73, North Manchester passed away Oct. 3, 2019, in her home.

Daughter of Charles Robert and Eleanor Alice (Trotter) Boyce, she was born on Oct. 29, 1945, in South Bend. On Dec. 10, 1984, she married Thomas Johnston. Thomas later passed away in December of 2013.

She was a homebody that enjoyed babysitting her great-grandchildren. She had two dogs that she considered her children. She lived in Texas for 50 years of her life.

Caroline Johnston will be remembered by her son Wade Whitaker and daughter Dawn Hall both of North Manchester; four grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, three brothers, and two sisters.

There will be no services scheduled at this time.

For those who wish to honor the memory of Caroline, a love offering may be made to McKee Mortuary, 1401 State Road 114 West, North Manchester, IN 46962 to assist the family with final expenses.

Arrangements are entrusted to McKee Mortuary.