Karen S. (Cox) Wilkinson, 74, of Fort Wayne, IN, died from cancer and passed away peacefully
in her home while surrounded by family and loved ones on November 5, 2024.Born March 17, 1950, Karen fondly celebrated St. Patrick’s Day every year as her birthday celebration. Born to the late Dorothy (Humbarger) and Earl Cox. She graduated as a proud Redskin in 1968 from North Side High School. Karen loved to laugh and enjoyed many things in life. She put pride and passion into all that she did and touched every life. She was a veteran of the Fort Wayne Fire Dept, serving 21 years.
During her distinctive career, Karen was a fire investigator for the department and became district chief of the division. During her time in the division, Karen was able to help develop the Juvenile Fire Setters Program, served as the president of the International Association of Arson Investigators, was the first woman in the State of Indiana to become a highly distinguished Certified Fire Investigator (CFI), was a member of the Allen County FAST team, was a qualified fire arson expert witness, was recognized as a woman in leadership and served on the FWFD Color Guard. She retired as a captain in the combat division from station #5 in Waynedale in 2006. After retirement, she worked for the State Fire Marshall’s office, and Shand’s Forensics. She was also a security officer for the Allen County Prosecutor’s office, as well as served on the board for the Fire Police City County Federal Credit Union. Karen was full of resilience, kindness, and strength. She cherished time with her kids and grandkids. She enjoyed working in her yard, pulling weeds, and magically reviving clearance shelf plants. She loved spending time with her “fire girls”, enjoying a captain and coke, and going on trips to Florida to go to the beach. Karen is survived by her brother Daniel (Darva) Cox of Fort Wayne, brother-in-law Erik Cober of Freemont. Her son Bryan (Kady) Wilkinson of Justin, TX, daughter Tracey (Naomi) Wilkinson, of Fort Wayne. Grandchildren Mystie (Dereck) Dollarhite, Andrew Mergy, Allyn Wilkinson, Elliott Wilkinson, and great-grandchildren, Logan, Dominick, and Bayleigh. As well as several loving nephews and cousins, and her two loving cats. She is preceded in death by her parents and sister Rebecca. Services will be conducted Sunday November 10, 2024, at 2:00 pm with her final fire ride beginning at Covington Memorial Gardens, 8408 Covington Road Fort Wayne 46804 and ending at Local 124 Union Hall, 1405 Broadway, Fort Wayne, IN 46802, Please join us for a celebration of life, laughter, and memories.
Retiree Robert (Bob) Dibble, badge #37, passed away on 09/25/2024 at the age of 97. Bob was the oldest in seniority, and second oldest in age of living retirees. Bob served our department from 08/21/1950 - 02/26/1971 and was also an Air Force veteran from WWII. Please keep Bob's family in your thoughts and prayers.
James "Jim" R. Miller, age 83, of Fort Wayne passed away on Thursday, September 5, 2024, at Stillwater Hospice Home. Born on October 5, 1940, he was the son of the late Lloyd and Virginia (Craighead) Miller. Jim was a graduate of Central Catholic High School, class of 1958. He proudly served as a firefighter for the city of Fort Wayne for over 26 years until retiring in 1991. Jim was also the owner of Ice Cream Cove in Angola, IN which he operated with his wife, Judith, for 9 years. When not working, Jim enjoyed renovating houses, selling them, and then moving on to the next house. Together, Jim and Judith renovated sixteen houses. Jim also loved being a grandfather to his grandchildren and cherished the time he spent with them. He was a member of St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church in Fort Wayne and of Santa Rosa de Lima Catholic Church in Adice, TX. Jim was also a member of Firefighters Local 124 Union.
Left to cherish his memory are his wife of 64 years, Judith (Andorfer) Miller; sons, James R. (Reyne) Miller Jr. and Andrew (Carrie) Miller; grandchildren, James R. Miller III, Michael L. Miller, and Alyssia R. Thaxton; five great-grandchildren; siblings, Carolyn (Richard) Graft, Susan Shepherd, John (Joan) Miller, Joseph Miller, Geoffrey "Jeff" (Sally) Miller, and Paula Brauner; and several nieces and nephews. James was preceded in death by his daughter, Cynthia K. Lee; brother, Gerald (Barbara) Miller; and his parents.
Richard Jerome Ridley Jr., peacefully departed this life on the morning of October 21, 2023, in the embracing comfort of his loved ones. He was born on November 8, 1937, in Fort Wayne, Indiana, to his birth parents, Richard J. Ridley Sr. and Estella Collins Boggess. At nine years old he found his second mother, Oddie E. Essex Ridley. He attended L.C. Ward Elementary School, Bethlehem Lutheran School, and Concordia Lutheran High School, where he made a remarkable mark both academically and athletically.
Notably, he broke barriers as the first Black male student at Bethlehem Lutheran School and first 4-year Black male student at Concordia Lutheran High School, demonstrating his academic and athletic excellence. He completed his education at Concordia, and inspired by his JROTC training, embarked on a courageous journey as a member of the U.S. Army, serving in the 101st Airborne Division, 101 Paratroopers, and the 327th Battle Group from 1956 to 1960, before receiving an honorable discharge and then enrolling in Indiana Business College.
After graduating from Indiana Business College (seventh in his class), he encountered employment barriers in his degreed field, but was undeterred. Inspired by community activism, and a desire to challenge racial disparities AND provide for his family; he instead sought opportunities with the Fort Wayne Fire Department. On October 7, 1961, Richard J. Ridley Jr. made history as the first Black firefighter in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He persevered through adversity, racism, and hostility, dedicating himself as a devoted public servant, and also developed a model physical fitness training program for firefighters; championing affirmative action for "Equal Opportunity Employment," and supporting youth athletic programs sponsored by firefighters. Mr. Ridley served on several boards, committees and commissions to include: International Fire Service Training Association, National Fire Protection Association, Fort Wayne Urban League, NAACP and numerous other boards and committees.
Like a true firefighter, he courageously faced the perils of duty to serve the community, remaining in service until his retirement as Combat District Chief in October 1985. Richard was awarded the inaugural IAFF Local 124/FWFD Pioneer Award and was also inducted, into the Concordia Lutheran High School JROTC Hall of Honor, which recognizes alumni who have distinguished themselves as leaders.
Beyond his remarkable firefighting career, in 1972 Richard established Ridley Carpet & Flooring, a highly successful business; that provided exemplary service and long-term employment opportunities for minority trade workers. This service provided all areas of flooring for residential, business, industrial and educational facilities, with a lasting impact throughout the community today.
Richard was a stern yet extremely fun and loving man, who completely embraced children as hope of the future. He sincerely loved to support the light and energy in people, always finding the positive approach, when possible. He loved FAMILY!!
Richard was preceded in death by his parents and sisters: Mable Laverne Ridley Hill, Lillian A. Ridley Johnson; Nephews: Peter M. Hogan Jr. and Lionel Q. Hogan Sr., and Tyler Ridley.
He leaves to cherish his memory his loving and dedicated wife: Janice M. (Harris) Ridley, children: Anthony J. (Rebecca) Ridley, Richard J. (Condra) Ridley III, Teresa Ridley Yarbrough, Nicholas P. Ridley, Tiea Q. Lee, Antwian S. Lake, Takiyah S. Lake and Randall C. Ridley.
Siblings: Sisters Rev. Juanita V. Ridley (Rev. Emmanuel III) Wasson, Erma J. (d. Peter M. Sr.) Hogan, Roberta F. Ridley, Cynthia J. Ridley (Walter) Underwood, Danielle D. Ridley, and one brother James Irvin (Nicole) Ridley Sr.
He also leaves grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins and dedicated “Harris” loving In-laws, friends and neighbors.
Richard's legacy of resilience, commitment, LOVE of family and community service will forever be remembered and celebrated by those whose lives he touched.
The Taskmaster, Main Man and Voice of Reason Has Chosen to Rest !!!
Retiree Gary Connelly, badge #133, passed on September 23rd at the age of 79. Gary served our department from 10/03/1966-07/01/1975. Please keep his family in your thoughts and prayers. The obituary will be posted when available.
Ray Pulver passed away August 24, 2023, after courageously battling Leukemia and related illnesses for decades. Ray was born August 19, 1963 in Fort Wayne, Indiana to parents Raymond (Sr.) and Janice (Feagler) Pulver. He graduated from Leo Jr/.Sr. High School with the class of 1982. Ray was an outstanding baseball player and was recognized as an All-State pitcher.
After graduating from high school, Ray accepted a full athletic scholarship to play baseball for his beloved Indiana University. While there he earned his B.S. in Business Administration and was named Academic All Big 10. Today he is still tied for the second place record for pitching three shutouts in a single season for Indiana University.
After college Ray worked for Guardian Industries before joining the Fort Wayne Fire Department in 1991. Ray served on the department for 14 years before his illnesses forced him into early retirement. He frequently stated that being a fireman was the best job he ever had. Ray also pursued his desire to start his own business and became a licensed real estate appraiser starting Appraisal Professionals Inc. in 1995.
On November 30, 1991, Ray married Kristine Helbert. Together they built a wonderful and faith-filled life together, having two sons (Jacob and Joshua). Ray’s sons made him especially proud by following in his footsteps with Joshua joining him in the appraisal business in 2019 as a licensed appraiser and Jacob joining the Fort Wayne Fire Department in October, 2021. Ray was elected to the Leo-Cedarville Town Council and served for eight years. Ray and Kristine were dedicated members of Grabill Missionary Church and will be forever grateful for the support and love shown by its members.
Baseball continued to be a passion for Ray throughout his life and he was especially happy to watch his sons play the sport he loved. He loyally cheered for the Cincinnati Reds and IU Basketball. He wore an IU baseball hat at all times, especially when he could taunt his brother Rob when IU beat Purdue. Ray was incredibly grateful to be the beneficiary of a donated heart and kidney which were skillfully transplanted at Vanderbilt University hospital by their highly skilled doctors and nurses who treated Ray with love and compassion. Even through all of his health challenges, Ray’s warmth and humor brought smiles and joy to those lucky enough to be near him.
Ray is preceded in death by his father Raymond Lee Pulver, Sr.; sister Denise Lust; sister-in-law Tamara Pulver; and father-in-law Dennis Helbert. Ray will be greatly missed by his loving wife of 31 years, Kristine Pulver; his mother Janice Pulver; two sons Jake (Taryn) Pulver of Grabill, Indiana and Josh (Diedre) Pulver of Fort Wayne, Indiana; brother Rob Pulver of Fort Wayne, Indiana; mother-in-law Carol Helbert (Jim) Grimm of Butler, Indiana; and brother-in-law Brett (Jenny) Helbert of Butler, Indiana. Ray was a positive influence on his nephews and nieces Jon Michael (Valencia) Lust of Ottawa, Ontario, Canada; Ian (Nacole) Lust of Fort Wayne, Indiana; Owen (Mackenzie) Pulver of Fishers, Indiana; Wesley Pulver of Chicago, Illinois; Logan Helbert of Butler, Indiana; and Lena Helbert of Butler, India
Terry Darnell Burt, Sr. affectionately known as “Pop”, was born on September 4, 1952 to the union of Virginia (Williams) Burt and Johnnie Burt, Sr. in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He departed this life on his “Last Run” on July 17, 2023.
Terry graduated from Central High School in Fort Wayne, Indiana in 1971. He always held his time as a Central Tiger close to his heart. His children would joke that he was born at Central. Terry would talk fondly of friends who would become like family over the next decades of his life, always enjoying a laugh and smile after running into them during errands and reminiscing at their high school reunions.
Terry earned a Bachelor of Arts - Political Science degree from Indiana University, Bloomington in 1976. While at IU, he became a member of the Alpha Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. in 1973 where he was #7 on his line. Later, he was honored to serve as Polemarch of his beloved Alpha Chapter.
Terry broke the color barrier as a member of the first minority recruitment class of the Fort Wayne Fire Department in December 1983. He climbed the ladder to the ranks of Lieutenant in July 1988 and Captain in September 1995. After 32 years of meritorious service, he hung his boots up for the last time and retired in January 2016. Over the years, he served at Stations 1, 2, 4, 7, 11, 12 and lastly 18. In addition, Terry was a hero, on and off the truck. A big man with a generous heart and an even more glorious mustache, he was always willing to offer help when a crisis arose.
Terry was also a true “Renaissance Man''. He was a lifelong learner and avid reader; books and knowledge were always precious to him. He passed that love on to his children, nieces, and nephews and was a lifelong patron of the Allen County Public Library. Terry was a jazz enthusiast (especially Coltrane), cyclist, political junkie, traveler and jokester.
He leaves to cherish his memory his loving children, twins Tara Burt (Brooklyn, NY) and Terry Burt, Jr. (Fort Wayne, IN), and Amanda Chambers-Burt (Brooklyn, NY). He is also survived by his mother Virginia Burt-Taylor, his siblings, Willie Dean Wyatt (Elbert), Dr. John Burt, Jr. (Cynthia), Gregory Burt, Sharon Burt, Anthony Burt (Frances), Gary Burt and a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and lifelong friends.
Ernest H. Faurote, 94, of Fort Wayne, died Thursday, June 22, 2023. He retired as a Firefighter with the Fort Wayne Fire Department. Ernie is survived by his children, Thomas (Cheryl) Faurote, Steven (Tami) Faurote, Susan Stauffer, and Mary Alberding; brother, Joseph Faurote Jr.; and grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Ernie was preceded in death by his wife of 66 years, Dorothy (Lansaw) Faurote, in 2021.
Michael M. Aker, 78, passed away on Wednesday, June 14, 2023, in Fort Wayne, Ind. He was born on June 27, 1944 in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Mike graduated from North Side High School in 1963, and after graduation, started his lifelong career in the construction industry. He had a diverse range of hobbies and passions, all of which exemplified his dedication to family, adventure, craftsmanship and community service. Among his cherished pastimes were spending quality time with his loved ones, creating lasting memories during vacations to Florida, and indulging in the thrill of motorcycles and cars. His commitment to public safety and helping others was evident through his role as a firefighter, embodying a deep sense of bravery. Mike proudly and fiercely served the Fort Wayne Fire Department for 36 years, from 1969 to 2005, when he retired as a Battalion Chief. His dedication, respect and commitment to the brothers and sisters of the Fort Wayne Fire Department was unmatched. Mike was a selfless, compassionate, genuine, hard-working hero who cherished his loved ones and embraced new experiences. His legacy will leave a lasting positive impact on the entire community and all who knew and loved him for generations to come. Mike and Carolyn Aker committed their lives to each other on Aug. 28, 1965 and celebrated 57 years of marriage last year. They raised four incredible children who have grown to be successful, kind and hard-working individuals, none of which would be possible without him. He loved his family and was so proud of each and every one of them. He was a hero to many, a friend to all, and would do anything for anyone. He was the most loving and caring husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He will be missed and remembered forever. Mike is survived by his wife, Carolyn; and his four children, Jill (Ray) Schmitz, Lisa (Jim) Fry, Jenny (Doug) Relue and Michael (Penny) Aker. He was a grandfather to eight grandchildren, Megan, Madison, Nick, Tyler, Taylor, Luke, Robby and Wesley. He was a proud great-grandfather to his first great-grandchild, Eva. He was preceded in death by his parents, Russel (Ruth) Aker, Alice (Arthur) Moser; and his siblings, Dave Aker and Bonnie Durnell.
Robert C. Schoenherr, 97, of Decatur formerly of Fort Wayne, passed away Wednesday afternoon, April 19, 2023. He was born to the late Paul and Mildred (Disler) Schoenherr on April 27, 1925. Robert married Patsy Marie Ellis in 1946, who is now deceased. On August 5, 1987, he married Phyllis A. (Heimann) Feasel.
He attended Central High School and joined the U.S. Navy in 1943, during World War II. Bob went to Navy gunnery school and was gunner on the SS Charles H. Herty, a merchant ship, carrying bombs to England. He transferred to the fleet aboard the USS Randolph (CV-15). Bob earned 3 Battle Stars in the Pacific. He also served in the Korean Conflict, aboard the USS Essex (CV-9)
Bob worked for the Fort Wayne Fire Department, retiring after 29 years of service.
He is survived by his wife of 35 years, Phyllis Schoenherr of Decatur; a daughter, Dawn Carter of Texas; a daughter-in-law, Ginger Schoenherr of Ft. Wayne; a grandchild, Eric (Heather) Schoenherr; 3 step children, Brenda Myers Steve (Vanessa) Feasel, Jim (Nancy) Feasel; 7 grandchildren; 15 great grandchildren.
Bob was preceded in death by his son, Jim Schoenherr; a sister, Pauline Colven; a brother, Don Scheonherr; a granddaughter, Jessica Autumn Schoenherr.
Robert C. "Bob" Schieferstein, 98, of Columbia City, passed away on Tuesday, January 10, 2023. Bob was born September 25, 1924 in Fort Wayne, a son of the late Carl and Alice (Durnell) Schieferstein. Bob served in the US Army during World War II. He served the people of the community as a firefighter for the Fort Wayne Fire Department for 23 years, retiring as a District Chief. He later went on to serve as a Chief for the Wayne Township Fire Department. Finally, he served the City of Fort Wayne in the Bureau of Identification. He was a member of the American Legion as well as Amvets. In his free time, he enjoyed traveling to and wintering in Florida, boating, fishing, going to the casino with his daughter, and eating ice cream at JR's Dari Sweet, which his son owns. Surviving family include his daughter, Cheryl Yeager; son, Kevin Schieferstein; grandchildren, Aron, Lindsey (Michael), Jackson (Bobbi), Miranda (Zach); 11 great grandchildren; and his beloved Dachshund, Fritz. Besides his parents, he was preceded in passing by his daughter-in-law, Sheryl Schieferstein; son-in-law, Stephen Yeager; sisters, Betty, Mary Ann, and Carol Jean; and Dachshund, Cindy.
Ron Brockmyer, 85, passed away on Saturday, January 7, 2023. He was a loving husband, father and grandfather, member of the Fort Wayne Firefighter community, and world traveler. He was frequently recognized by the firefighters he served alongside as a fireman and those he helped at the credit union in Fort Wayne and as far away as Glacier National Park.
Ron was born in Fort Wayne, Indiana at Saint Joseph Hospital. He graduated South Side High School in 1955 and Purdue University in 1957. He joined the Fort Wayne Fire Department after graduation and spent the rest of his career in firefighting and supporting firefighters through the Firefighter’s Credit Union. He retired from the Fire Department in 1981 and the Credit Union in 2018.
He was devoted to the financial success of many community members in his roles at the Credit Union. He became Credit Union Manager early in his firefighting career, working in a small room at Fire Station 5 in Waynedale. Ron was the manager, served as Treasurer of the board for decades and retired as president at the Credit Union. He oversaw large expansions of the Firefighter Credit Union to include City and County, Police, and other Credit Unions. The Credit Union went from that single room to a county-wide Credit Union with his support and hard work.
Ron was a dedicated member of the Credit Union Community. He continued his education through the Credit Union National Association. He served on the Board of Directors for the Indiana Credit Union League, supporting Credit Unions statewide. At an ICUL convention, he astutely guessed the amount of money in a jar of change and treated at LaTour with his winnings.
Ron is preceded in death by his parents, Waunetah and Herbert Charles Brockmyer, first wife, Anne Byer Brockmyer, son Herbert Russell Brockmyer, and grandson Joshua Ohmart.
Ron married his best friend, Phyllis Brockmyer, in 1982. They have traveled the world and spent nearly every minute of the last 40 years together. They celebrated their 40th anniversary in Greece last November, where Ron won a race and even got a laurel on his head like a real Olympian. Everyone who knew him knew how dedicated he was to Phyllis.
He is survived by his children: Chuck Brockmyer and his wife Carol, Katy (Brockmyer) Mumma and her husband Phil, Melissa (Brockmyer) Dalman and her husband Jim, David Brockmyer and his wife Michelle, and Gary Hopkins and his wife Bethany. He leaves behind 6 grandchildren, Anne Marie Barton, Ophelia Flores-Carr, Kayden Brockmyer, Joe Hopkins, Adam Brockmyer, and Magnolia Hopkins.
Funeral services for Ronald will be at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, January 13, 2023 at D.O. McComb & Sons Funeral Home Pine Valley, 1320 E. Dupont Rd, Fort Wayne, IN 46825. Burial will follow in Catholic Cemetery of Fort Wayne, 3500 Lake Ave, Fort Wayne, IN 46805.
Visitation will be Thursday, January 12, 2023 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at D.O. McComb & Sons Funeral Home Pine Valley, 1320 E. Dupont Rd, Fort Wayne, IN 46825.
Memorial Contributions may be made to South Haven Area Emergency Services, Fort Wayne YMCA, Fort Wayne Firefighters Museum or Riley Children’s Hospital in Indianapolis.
Robert "Stelly" Carl Stellhorn, age 84 passed away on Monday, December 19, 2022. He was born on May 15, 1938 in Fort Wayne, IN.
He graduated from North Side High School. He loved golf, IU basketball, NASCAR racing, and trips to Las Vegas.
Stelly retired from the City of Fort Wayne Fire Department where he served in many different positions, including District Chief. He later went to work for the Wayne Township Assessor’s office as the Assessor.
He is survived by his loving daughters, Sheryl (Mike) Figg, Tonya “Toni” Worrel, Jody Lomas; his grandchildren – Alicia (Curtis) Jailer, Gary (Najila) Jefferies, Ashley Worrel, Jerrica (Ray) James, Bobby Gladieux, Andrea Watson, Rachel (Scott) Pugh, and his great-grandchildren, Blake, Brennan, Israel, Ray Jr, Roman, Zoe, Emma, and Allie; his brother, Jack Stellhorn, and sister, Beverly Anders; and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents Fred and Abigail Stellhorn, and his sister, Carole Shively.
Roldofo "Rudy" Mendoza Renteria, 70, of Fort Wayne, passed away on Thursday, Nov. 3, 2022. Born July 7, 1952, in Fort Wayne, he was a son of the late Maria and Dionicio Renteria. He enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren.
Rudy graduated from Central Catholic High School in 1970 and then served four years in the United States Navy, as well as in the Vietnam War. After leaving the Navy, Rudy joined the Fort Wayne Fire Department. He served 18 years and retired as a Fire Captain.
Rudy is survived by his sons, Jesse (Deborah) Renteria of Fort Wayne and Jason (Nicole) Renteria of Virginia Beach, Va.; four grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; brothers, Ricardo "Rick" Renteria of Fort Wayne and Reynaldo "Rey" Renteria of Beech Island, S.C.; and several cousins, nieces and nephews. Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by his uncle, Teodoro Mendoza and aunt, Alicia Perez.
Morris E. “Butch” Waltemath, 82, passed away on Tuesday, October 18, 2022, at Lutheran Life Villages S. Anthony, in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Born on October 30, 1939, to the late Morris H. and Margaret Waltemath, he was native and lifetime resident of Fort Wayne.
Butch graduated from Central Catholic HS in 1957. He joined the Fort Wayne Fire Department in 1963 and retired in 1988 after serving his community for 25 years. He was a member of the 20 year club with the Fort Wayne Firefighters and the local 124 Firefighters Union. Butch was also a volunteer at the Senior Games and the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo for over 15 years. He was an avid golfer, loved music and attending concerts.
Butch is survived by his children, Ross (Shelly) Waltemath of Kokomo, IN, Connie (Steve) Williams of Wakarusa, IN, Michelle (Mark) West of Centerville, OH; 9 grandchildren; 6 great-grandchildren; and a sister, Rita Belot. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by this children’s mother, Barbara Ann Waltemath in 2019; siblings, Richard Waltemath, and Mary Catherine Gemmil and brother in law Earl Gemmil; half-siblings, Charles Waltemath, Selma; sister-in-law, Sylvia Waltemath; and brother-in-law, James Belot.
Harold E. Doutt, age 84, of Albion, Indiana, passed away on Friday, Sept. 9, 2022, at home. He was born on Sept. 1, 1938, the son of Mae (Peters) and Walter Knox Doutt. On Jan. 28, 2005, he married Connie Kitchen.
He is survived by his wife, Connie Doutt, of Albion, Indiana; four children, Sheryl (Danny) Sipe, of Bluffton, Indiana, Ronald (Chris) Doutt, of New Haven, Indiana, Tina (Tim) Myers, of Monroeville, Indiana, and Robert (Stephanie) Doutt, of Warren, Indiana; step-daughter, Carie (Tony) Cross, of Albion, Indiana; 12 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; two brothers, Charles Doutt, of Messick, Michigan, and Edward Doutt, of Rogers, Arkansas; a sister, Mary Dailey, of Alexandria, Indiana; and his dogs, Hooch and Ruby.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Harold graduated from high school in Alexandria, Indiana, and served his country honorably in the Army Reserves, from 1955-1963.
He worked at the Times Tribune and served on the Poe Fire Department, prior to working as a conservation officer for 12 years. Harold retired from the Fort Wayne Fire Department after more than 26 years of faithful service. For several years he was an instructor for Trappers College, held annually in LaGrange County.
He was an avid outdoorsman, who loved to hunt, trap and fish whenever he could, and wherever he could.Harold was also a member of the Nature Conservancy, Fur Takers of American, and a proud member of the NRA.
In keeping with Harold's wishes, cremation will take place.
Gordon W. Anthony, 80, of Fort Wayne passed away after an eight month battle from mesothelioma, Sunday, August 28, 2022, surrounded by his family in Fort Wayne. Gordon was born December 9, 1941 in Sedalia, MO, to the late Norman and Mildred (Sweeney) Anthony. He married Rosalyn "Rosie" Walsh, October 22, 1966, whom survives. Gordon was a retired Captain of the Fort Wayne Fire Dept. and one of the first EMT's in Fort Wayne retiring in 1998. He was a member of Saint Charles Borromeo Catholic Church and American Legion Post 381. He served on the USS Charles H. Roan DD-853 during the Vietnam war era in the US Navy.
In addition to his wife, Gordon is survived by three sons, Eric Anthony, Jason (Shara) Anthony, Aaron (Olivia) Anthony; daughter, Mallorie (Austin) Ables; grandchildren Emily Purinton, Jackson and Cooper Anthony and Bentlee Ables; great-grandchildren, Karter, Annalise, Gordon and Adeline; sister, Geraldine 'Geri' Harris and numerous nieces and nephews.
Gordon was preceded in death by his sister, Elizabeth D. Halbrook.
Alan H. Such, 83, passed away Sunday, Aug. 7, 2022, at Coventry Meadows Nursing Home in Fort Wayne. Born June 13, 1939, in Fort Wayne, he was a son of the late Howard and Ericka Such. Alan attended Concordia High School for three years and graduated from South Side High School in 1958. He was a U.S. Navy veteran and entered into service in 1958, serving on the USS Saratoga. Alan was a dedicated Fort Wayne Fireman for 35 years and spent much of his career as a District Chief, retiring in 1998. He was the Co-Founder and President of Pyro Fire Inc. for 12 years. His company designed and executed fireworks displays throughout Northern Indiana including area lakes, country clubs and the Fort Wayne annual 4th of July and 3 Rivers Festival shows. Alan was also the Co-Owner and President of AS & L Transportation since 2000 who managed voting machines for Allen County. He loved history and attending his grandchildren's sporting events. His memberships included AMVETS and the Fire Fighters Union. He is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, SuAnn D. Such of Fort Wayne; daughters, Christine (Christopher) Derheimer of Fort Wayne and Carrie (Gil) Farley of Sarasota, Fla.; brother, Ronald W. (Sue) Such of Camden, Maine; sister, Cheryl Miser of Fort Worth, Texas; and grandchildren, Adrian Farley, Bailey (Philip) Balderston, Grant Farley, and Shay Farley.
John Quentin Gillespie, age 73, of Naval Air Station Key West, Fla. passed away on Tuesday, August 2, 2022 at Parkview Regional Medical Center. He was born April 18, 1949 in Fort Wayne, Ind. to the late Paul Q. and Helen (Wirey) Gillespie. John graduated from North Side High School in 1967 and Nashville Diesel Automotive College the following year. He joined the United States Navy in November of 1968 and proudly served our nation for four years active duty and two additional as a submarine mechanic in the U.S. Naval Reserve. John received the Vietnam Service Medal - Single Star and Navy Commendation Medal for heroic achievements, saving his shipmates lives with high risk to his own. He retired from the Fort Wayne Fire Department after 18 1/2 years of service in 1992. In his retirement to Key West, John loved fishing, boating, sailing and traveling the United States and Europe with his late wife, Debbie, until her passing in August of 2017. Surviving are his sister, Kay Gillespie of Fort Wayne, Ind.; cousins, Jenny (Tim) Hessler, Janet (Jake) Ekel, Susie Latimer, Ron McNeal, Rick (Rosie) Hines, Alan Hines, Dale (Corinne) Fulkerson, and Dan (Nancy) Fulkerson. He was predeceased by his wife, Debbie (Partin) Gillespie; parents, Paul and Helen (Wirey) Gillespie; and cousin, Barb Hines.
Jeffrey C. Englert, age 52, of Leo, IN passed away Monday, July 4, 2022 in Fort Wayne. He was born in Fort Wayne to Michael (Claudia) Englert, who survives, and the late Carol Englert. Jeff served on the Fort Wayne Fire Department for 15 years. He also worked as a bingo caller at the American Legion Post 202, Chuck's Shoe Repair, and security officer at Adams Elementary. He enjoyed IU sports, and loved spending time with family, especially his grandchildren. Jeff is survived by his wife, Kimberley Englert of Leo; children, Kyle, Kelsey, Kaley, Cara, and Sean; four grandchildren; and siblings, Jamie (Rochelle) Englert and Joseph Englert.
Retiree Jim Ebbing, badge #64, passed on May 5th at the age of 87. Jim served our department from 12/14/1959 - 05/01/1983. He is the brother of retiree Tom Ebbing.
James Ebbing's passing on Thursday, May 5, 2022 has been publicly announced by Advantage Mungovan Funeral & Cremation in Fort Wayne, IN.
Legacy invites you to offer condolences and share memories of James in the Guest Book below.
James “Jim” Arman, 91, of Fort Wayne, went to be with the Lord on April 4, 2022, at home surrounded by his family. Jim was born in Fort Wayne, Indiana, on May 30, 1930, and was the son of the late George and Olga Arman.
Jim graduated from Central High School in 1948. His first job was with the Pennsylvania Railroad at Baker Street and then worked at Capehart Farnsworth. In 1951, Jim joined the U.S. Navy and was assigned to the battleship U.S.S. Wisconsin BB64 and headed to Yokosuka, Japan, but came back to port after a shell hit the ship in Korean waters and was then transferred to the cruiser U.S.S. Pittsburg GA 72. Jim was discharged in 1953 as his father was ill. In 1956, Jim joined the Fort Wayne Fire Department and served as a private at Fire Stations No. 5, No.1 and No.2. He was promoted to lieutenant at No.3 and then promoted to captain. He retired from No.12 Fire Department in 1978. Upon his retirement from the Fire Department, Jim worked in the Maintenance Department at Indiana & Michigan Electric company and retired in 1993. Jim led a full and memorable life, devoting himself to his family.
Michael L. Perriguey Sr., 79, died April 2, 2022, in Fort Wayne. Michael was born June 26, 1942, in Fort Wayne, the son of the late Gerald and Maurine (Luedeke) Perriguey. He was a 1960 graduate of Central Catholic High School where he played football all 4 years and was captain of football team senior year, honorable mention and all-state. He attended St Charles Catholic Church. He served as a Fireman for 22.5 years, on the Fort Wayne Fire Dept-Retiring 1985 and salesman at Wayne Pipe and Supply 23 years-retiring 2008. Michael is survived by sons, Mike (Janeen) and Larry (Nicole); and grandsons, Michael and Keean. Michael was preceded in death by his wife Martha in 2019.
JEROME A. "JERRY" MORING, 78, of Chipley, went to be with the Lord Friday, Feb. 25, 2022. Jerry had a loving, large family and many close friends. He loved to work out, play handball and darts, and snow ski. Jerry also enjoyed being outdoors on the lake boating. He retired after 25 years of service from the Fort Wayne, Ind. Fire Department. Left to treasure his memory is his son, Dean A. (Denise) Moring; grandchildren, Brooke (Andrew) Cox, Megan Moring (Ross Gottschalk), and Danielle Moring; great-grandchildren, Callen and Cooper Cox; brothers, James (Kathleen) Moring and Ron (Alyce) Moring; sister, Mary Peltier; nieces and nephews, Steven (Jennifer) Moring, Connie (Eric) Voorheis, Paul Moring, Michael (Chris) Moring, Paige Peltier (Tim) Fenton, Nicole Peltier, Burke Peltier, Chris Pittman, Lisa (Joe) Anderson, Scott (Alexis) Moring, Michelle (Andy) Stacher, Heath Stanfield, Todd May, Ericha (Ricky) Laymon, Shana (Burt) Rumph, and Bria (Jordan) Willenborg. He also leaves behind several cousins and great-nieces and -nephews to honor his memory. Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Everett E. Moring and Alice M. Underwood (Moring) Hageman; grandparents, Harry and Blanche Underwood; sisters, Marjorie Moring, Barbara Hogeland and Judith Stanfield; and niece, Ronna Wade Cox.
Dean (Paul) Earley, badge #258, passed on January 22nd at the age of 73. Paul served our department from 12/26/1975 through 11/18/1999.. Arrangements by Midwest Funeral Home & Cremation, 1415 W. Coliseum Blvd., Fort Wayne.
Donald Ross Cleveland, 89 passed away from complications of pneumonia on January 11 at Eisenhower Medical Center in Rancho Mirage, CA. He was born September 3, 1932 in Fort Wayne, Indiana and was preceded in death this past summer by his wife of 65 years, Margaret Cleveland. He is survived by his son David Cleveland of Palm Springs, CA and his daughter Dawn Neas of Mesa, AZ. A graduate of Concordia Lutheran High School, he was Marine Corp veteran of the Korean War where he was wounded in battle and received the Purple Heart. Later he spent 27 years as a firefighter for the City of Fort Wayne, IN where he became a captain and was also the city’s first Director of its Emergency Medical Service. He moved with his wife to California in 2014 to be closer to their children. He was a member of Peace Lutheran Church, Palm Desert.
It is with great sadness that we announce the death of Joseph J. Costanza Jr. (Fort Wayne, Indiana), who passed away on November 24, 2021, at the age of 77, leaving to mourn family and friends. Leave a sympathy message to the family on the memorial page of Joseph J. Costanza Jr. to pay them a last tribute.
He was predeceased by : his parents, Joseph J. Costanza and Theresa Costanza (Digesare); and his wife Jane A. Thompson. He is survived by : his sons, Don Costanza and Robert Costanza (Angela); his grandchildren, Courtney, Ashley, Alex, Ashlye and Tori; and his sister Rosemary Hanley (Paul).
Robert G. Morris of Bradenton, Florida passed away in Bradenton, Florida on November 19, 2021 at home surrounded by his wife Donna and family.He was born July 28, 1937 in Ft. Wayne, Indiana to Georgia and Robert E. Morris. He graduated in 1955 from Central Catholic High School, Ft. Wayne, Indiana. He was married to Evelyn (Gibson) Morris who predeceased him in death in 2007. Together they had 4 sons. Bob "Sam" worked 24 years on the Ft. Wayne Fire Department serving in various ranks and retiring in 1985 as Training Chief. He also served as Treasurer of the Fire Departments Mutual Fund and several years as Chairman of the Fire Fighters New Years Eve Ball. He also spent 30 years in flooring sales in Ft. Wayne and then at Carpetland USA in Ft. Myers where he officially retired in 2000.
WILLIAM C. GEORGE, 97, of Fort Wayne, passed away on Sunday, Oct. 10, 2021. Born Jan. 21, 1924, in South fork, Pa., he was the son of the late Cecil and Violet George. William served in the U.S. Army during World War II until he was discharged in 1945. He went on to serve on the Fort Wayne Fire Department for 21 years, retiring in 1977. He and his wife then owned the Candy Village until 1983. He then worked at Huser- Paul Co. INC for 15 years until he retired in 2000. William was a member of the Scottish Rite, Mason Lodge 342, Shriners (director and staff past president,) American Legion 296 and Fort Wayne Firefighters Club. In his spare time he enjoyed watching the Cubs, and enjoyed IU basketball. He is survived by his children, William L. (Lynda) George and Cynthia Timma; four grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife, Elizabeth George on April 25, 2021.
WILLIAM J. WHITE, 96, passed away Saturday, March 20, 2021, at Parkview Regional Medical Center. Born in Fort Wayne, he was a 1943 graduate of Central High School. He served in the U.S. Army during Wordl War II in the Army's 552nd Field Battalion. In June of 1944 (D+ 22 & 23) the Battalion debarked on the French Coast at Utah Beach and he thereafter served in various European countries. He retired from the Fort Wayne Fire Department after serving from 1949 to 1976, as a Fire Fighter, Assistant Chief and Deputy Chief. He was the senior retired living member at the time of his death. He also retired from Insurance and Risk Management. He was a member of St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church. Surviving are his sons, Alan J. (Kathy) White, Thomas J. (Ellen) White and his daughters, Lori M. (Mike) Yonkman and Debra A. (Jim) Kocks; nine grandchildren and four great-grandchildren; sisters-in-law, Mary Tyler, Linda Tyler and Mary Ann (Denzel) Archer. William was preceded in death by his wife, Elizabeth A. (Tyler) White; and infant daughter, Denise E. White; his parents, Freeman and Mary White; and sisters, Helen M. White and Carolyn (White) Hak.
Gary Brown, 70, of Fort Wayne passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, February 20, 2021. He was born on September 5, 1950 in Marion, Indiana, son of the late James and Betty (Langer) Brown. He worked for the Fort Wayne Fire Department for 24 years before retiring. He served in the Indiana Air National Guard for 20 years. In 1983, he was a founding member of the local Make-A-Wish Foundation which later became Make-A-Wish Ohio, Kentucky, Indiana. Surviving family include his wife, Terra Brown; children, Brett Brown, Michael (Kirsten) Brown, and Krista VanArman; grandchildren, Haley, Tristen, Bailey, Chase, Aviana; brother, Ronald (Marsha) Brown and Richard (Bobbi) Brown; and sister, Gloria Merrill; and his beloved pet, Tanner.
NORMAN ALLEN HOKE, 73, of Largo, Fla., passed away on Sunday, Jan. 10, 2021. He was born on Jan. 26, 1947, in Fort Wayne. Norm retired after 30 years from the Fort Wayne Fire Department with the rank of District Chief. He also worked for TSA at St. Pete-Clearwater airport, and owned three businesses. He was a member of V.F.W 10094, Legion 119, and Local 124 IAFF. He enjoyed hockey, football, baseball, and poker. Norm is survived by daughter, Lisa Ann (nee Hoke) (husband, Arthur) Squires of Chicago, Ill.; four grandchildren, and eight great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his son, Scott, in 2004.
C. GEORGE STILWELL, 80, of Churubusco, passed away on Sunday, Dec. 6, 2020, at his home. He work-ed as Chief of the Fire Shop for the Fort Wayne Fire Department, retiring after 32 years of service. Surviving include his wife of 54 years, Sally Stilwell; children, Judi (Tom) Leon, Jerry Teague, Randy (Karin Bouza) Stilwell, Sally (Jeff Crabill) King, and Jeff (Eva) Stilwell; sister-in-law, June Stilwell; eight grandchildren, Sarah (Josh) Keck, Andy Leon, Nicole (Adam) Kinzel, Matt (Megan) Stilwell, Holli (Brandon) Hattery, Kristin King, David Stilwell, and Dylan Stilwell; and seven great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; and a brother, Gregory Stilwell.
GILBERT ALLAN HEIM, "GIL", 83, a life-long resident of Fort Wayne, Ind., passed away Monday Dec. 7, 2020, at Parkview Hospice Care. He died of complications due to Alzheim -er's. Gil retired from the Fort Wayne Fire Department in 1987 after serving 21 years. He had many fond memories of his firefighting career. As a young man he worked for Deluxe Marine in sales where he developed the interest of boats and his gift as a salesman. One of his last jobs was at Mill Supplies where his talents were recognized and appreciated. He was a prolific reader of history, old cars and boats. Most agree Gil was witty, well-read, generous and loving to his family and friends. Gil often voiced his appreciation of past travel with his wife, Joan, to many places he remembered fondly. He and Joan were members of Unity Christ Church where he often "volunteered" by eating the donuts after service. He was a devoted husband to both Joyce (Parent) Heim, deceased, and Joan (Lambert) Heim, his present wife. He was the loving father of Randy Heim, Rhonda (Heim) Hinsey, and his stepchildren, Tamara Tharp, Michael Tharp and Tara Mitchell. He was a devoted grandparent "G-Pa" to Dane Heim, Evan Heim, Clare Heim, Austin Holtzberg, Chase Tharp, Taylor Tharp, and Delaney Mitchell. He was also the "Great G-Pa" to Huxton Heim. He was preceded in death by his parents, Lela and August Heim; his sister, Lois Jean Heim (Swaim;) and his brother, Robert Edwin Heim. He will be very missed by his wife, children and friends.
JOHN R. LONERGAN, 94, passed away on Saturday, July 25, 2020, at Grey Stone Health and Rehabilitation Center, Fort Wayne. Born in Fort Wayne, he was the son of the late Charles and Faye (Stephson) Lonergan. He served his country in the U.S. Navy during World War II and was a member of American Legion Post 296. He retired in 1983 from the Fort Wayne Fire Department - Station 1 after 33 years. He is survived by his daughters, Cynthia Lonergan, Cheryl (Paul) Conrad, Susan (Bill) Ahlersmeyer, and Nancy (Mark) Hevel; five grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren. He was also preceded in death by his wife of 55 years, Maxin,e in 2003; and brother, William Lonergan. Funeral service is 1 p.m. Thursday at Harper's Community Funeral Home, 740 St. Rd. 930 E., New Haven, with visitation two hours prior. Pastor Jim Platner officiating. Masks required. Burial in Lindenwood Cemetery, Fort Wayne, with military honors. Preferred memorials are to the Fort Wayne Firefighters Museum.
THOMAS ALAN MARSHALL, 75, passed away on Sunday, July 19, 2020, at Parkview Hospital - Randallia in Fort Wayne. Born in Fort Wayne, he was a son of the late Stephen and Laura Marshall. Thomas was a 1963 graduate of South Side High School. He then earned his degree in Heating and Air Conditioning from Ivy Tech College. Thomas served honorably in the U.S. Army from 1966 to 1968 and served one year in Vietnam. He married Diana L. Torok on April 22, 1972; she survives. Thomas worked for the Fort Wayne Fire Department for 31 1/2 years until his retirement. While on the fire department he was Captain and Pension Secretary for 16 years. He was a member of the American Legion Post 47 and served on the Professional Firefighters Union of Indiana Pension Board. Thomas enjoyed being with his family and friends, playing golf, traveling, and loved his dog Taz. Surviving are his children, Jim (Nancy) Marshall and Leslie LeCoque; grandchildren, Julie (Adam), Jessica (Chris), Samantha, William and Daniel; three great-grandchildren; brother, Stephen (Joan) Marshall; and many brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nephews and nieces.
Darby Ray Mast, 77, of Ft. Wayne, went to be with his Savior on Thursday, Feb. 20, 2020. Born in Goshen IN on January 28, 1943, he called Ft. Wayne home since 1961. Darby enjoyed his employment at Pepsi in Ft. Wayne before proudly serving 20 years as a Ft. Wayne Firefighter (Badge #18), retiring in 1987. After retirement from FWFD, he worked at Power Plant Services for a few years before retiring. He enjoyed full retirement by spending time with his daughters and grandchildren. He also enjoyed wintering in Las Vegas. Surviving are his daughters Dana (Gary) Timmerman of Avilla, Deanna (Michael) Rasbury of Roanoke, and DeVonna (Stuart) Miller. Also surviving are his grandchildren; Megan, Samantha, Katie, Shannon, Kara, and Adam, and six great grandchildren. Sisters Cuba Venturini of Paso Robles, CA and Dawn Nisley of Carmel, IN, and Aunt Norma Berkey of Goshen, several beloved nieces and nephews and many cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents Albert Jay and Georgia B. Mast of Goshen.
Jerome "Jerry" L. Smith, 81, of Fort Wayne , Indiana, died on Tuesday, Jan. 28, 2020, at Lincolnshire Place, Fort Wayne.Jerry was born on Sept. 1, 1938, in Fort Wayne. He was the son of the late Robert C. and Vivian D. Smith.Jerry was a member of Saint Joseph Catholic Church, and served our country in the U.S. Navy.He was a Fort Wayne firefighter and the Superintendent of the Signal Dept. for the City of Fort Wayne, retiring in 1988.He enjoyed his retirement at Lake Pleasant, Manapogo Park, for many years.Jerry is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Marilyn; sons, David (Claudia) Smith, of Fremont, Indiana, Brian (Denise) Smith, of Monroeville, Indiana, and Dan (Rose) Smith, of New Haven, Indiana; daughters, Denise Smith, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, and Dawn Albright, of Monroeville, Indiana; nine grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.Jerry was preceded in death by his brother, Michael C. Smith.
Darvin J “Yogi” Kritzman, 93, of Fort Wayne died December 24, 2019 at home, surrounded by his loving family. Darvin was born July 23, 1926 in Fort Wayne. He was the son of the late Walter and Beatrice Kritzman. He served our country in the U S Army during WW II. Darvin was a Firefighter for the City of Fort Wayne for 33 years, retiring in 1984. He was a member of the Firefighters Union and the VA. Darvin is survived by his wife of 72 years, Helen of Fort Wayne; daughters, Karen Kritzman and Mickie Walters both of Fort Wayne, IN and Judy (Michael) Hamlin of Oregon City, OR; grandchildren, Chris (Mike) Mataraza, Deena (Ali) Mehdikhan, Matt Hamlin, Neil Linsky, Jim (Missy) Aerts, Jolene (Ira) Robinson, Holly (Travis) Hemsoth, Tony Kurtz; great-grandchildren, Michael (Lindsey) Mataraza, Shane (Brittney) Mataraza, Josh Mehdikhan, Kori Mehdikhan, CJ and Aubree Aerts, Layla, Seeley, Sawyer and Crosby Hemsoth, great great grandchildren Gionni, Mila, Rylee and Madison Mataraza; and his two best friends Patsy and Cricket. Darvin was preceded in death by his grandchildren Mike Hamlin and Stephanie Aerts.
WILLIAM "BILL" F. LANGMEYER, 91, of Fort Wayne, passed away on Saturday, Oct. 5, 2019, at Visiting Nurse Hospice Home in Fort Wayne. Mr. Lang-meyer was born March 12, 1928, in Fort Wayne, a son of Franklin and Stephanie (Kortokrax) Langmeyer. He graduated from Elmhurst High School in 1946. On March 26, 1949, he married Ruth Holocher at Emmaus Lutheran Church in Fort Wayne. Bill served as a Fort Wayne Firefighter for 21 years. During his time as a firefighter, he also helped with the founding of Firefighter's Credit Union. Bill also was employed at Nowak Williams Supply Company in Fort Wayne. He loved tending to his garden and keeping a well-manicured lawn. He enjoyed fishing, woodworking, bird watching and bird feeding. He was very proud of his grandchildren and loved following all of their achievements and events. Surviving are his children, Leslie Ryan Langmeyer, Vicki Arthur, and Lisa (Craig) Masters; grandchildren, Uriah Langmeyer, Christopher (Nicole) Langmeyer, Susannah Arthur, Philip (Hannah) Arthur, Hope Arthur, Clara Masters, and Chase (Carrie Luke) Masters; four great-grandchildren; and a sister, Patricia Stiffler. He was preceded in death by his parents; spouse; and five other siblings.
Virgil L. Smith, 83, of Fremont, Indiana, and formerly of Fort Wayne, Indiana, passed away at his home on Friday, Oct. 4, 2019. He was born on May 28, 1936, in Fort Wayne, Indiana, to Walter S. and Roxy C. (Paul) Smith. He graduated from Central High School, Fort Wayne, in 1954. Virgil was a Fort Wayne firefighter for 21 years, retiring in 1981. He had also worked as a guard at Zollinger Pistons for 12 years and at Slater Steel for six years before retiring. Virgil joined the Indiana Freemasonry in 1978. He was a 32nd degree Mason and past master of Maumee Masonic Lodge 725. He is currently a member of Waynedale Masonic Lodge 739. He was a member of the Royal Order of Jesters; Pokagon Shrine Club; and the Scottish Rite, Valley of Fort Wayne. Virgil enjoyed fishing, hunting and bowling. Surviving is his wife, whom he married on March 28, 1980, Ruth A. Tschannen Smith, of Fremont, Indiana; son, Kirk Smith, of Ohio; four stepsons, Rick Rupel, of Indiana, Kenneth Rupel, of Indiana, Thomas (Debra) Van Aman, of Indiana, and Pat Van Aman, of Michigan; three stepdaughters, Sharon (Dave) Pressler, of Indiana, Christine (Robert) Watson, of Illinois, and Rebecca (Randy Robinson) Van Aman, of Illinois; brother, Gene (Paulette) Smith, of Indiana; and sister, Judy (Rick) Kneisley, of California. Also surviving are 15 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Chris Erli; brother, Ricky Paul Smith, and sisters, Norma Koch and Carol Ramsey.
LARRY BLAIR, 78, loving husband and father passed away on Thursday, Sept. 12, 2019, at home surrounded by his family. Born March 2, 1941, in Eaton, Ind., he was the son of the late William and Mardale Blair. Larry attended North Side High School. He served on the Fort Wayne Fire Department for 30 years and received several awards including the 2010 Retiree of the year award for unselfishly volunteering his time and talents to the preservation of the Fire Department History. He was a member of Kekionga Long Rifle Club, IAFF, HOG, and was on the board of the Fire Fighters Museum. He enjoyed spending time with his wife, Barbra, and his family, boating, hunting, riding motorcycles with his friends, driving his Corvette, watching NASCAR, playing poker with his buddies, building guns, refurbishing cars and fire engines, and woodworking hobbies. He was dedicated to all restorations needed at the Firefighters Museum during his years of retirement. Larry is survived by his sister, Connie (Val) Ogden; brother, Tony Blair; daughters, Laura Hesson, Lisa Blair and Michelle Roebel; sons, Michael Peconge and Jeffery (Traci) Peconge; grandchildren, Brandon Thacker, Samantha (Paul) Pulliam, Rachael (Rob) Veenstra, Kyle Burke, Stephen Peconge, Kori Peconge, Ryon Peconge, Kaitlin Roebel, Zachary Roebel, and Austin Roebel; and great-grandchild, Raydyn Peconge. He was preceded in death by wife, Barbra Blair; father, William Blair; mother, Mardale Blair; sister, Jennith Blair; and granddaughter, Addison Ice.
Robert Lee Hemrick, Sr., 86, of Fort Wayne passed away Thursday, August 22, 2019 surrounded by family. Robert was born December 21, 1932 in Fort Wayne, the son of the late Homer and Mary Hemrick. He graduated from Central Catholic High School, was a member of Saint Joseph Hessen Cassel and the City Firefighters Union. Bob also served in the U.S. Navy for 4 years during the Korean War. For 20 years, he was the head of traffic engineering for the City of Fort Wayne and also worked for the Fort Wayne Community Schools as the inventory control manager. Bob was an avid fisherman with ice fishing as his main love. He was also a jack of all trades, creating and maintaining a home for his family. Bob loved to laugh and was a good soul to all he knew. He is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Helen; children, Janine (Mark) Klingenberger of New Haven, Lynne (Barry) Hemrick-Stevens of Fort Wayne, Robert Lee (Elizabeth) Hemrick Jr. of Maumee, OH, Wayne (fiancée, Robin Ruberson) Hemrick of Avon, IN, and Amy (Jared) Hemrick-Loomis of Fort Wayne; 10 grandchildren; and 8 great grandchildren.
Evelyn Irene Ford, 78, of Fort Wayne, passed away on Wednesday, June 19, 2019. Born May 26, 1941, in Fort Wayne, she was a daughter of the late Vernon E. and Rena M. (Dinger) Parr. She was the first woman to become a Fire Marshall in Indiana. She is survived by her son, Brad (Christy) Baumgartner; daughter, Paula (Timon) Bradfield; grandchildren, Jennifer Baumgartner, Timon (Caroline) Bradfield, Brittany Bradfield, and Dillon Spindler; and great-grandchildren, Avery Parks, Aria Bradfield, Adalynn Bradfield, and Timon Bradfield. She was also preceded in death by her husband, Gail Ford; and sister, Carol Retz.
Henry "Vic" V. Rigsby, 71, of Fort Wayne, passed away on Wednesday, May 8, 2019. He was born on March 27, 1948 in Washington, DC to the late Henry Victor RigsbySr and Ruth (Schooler) Girdner. Vic was an electrician for several years retiring from the City of Fort Wayne after 25 years and then owned Rigsby Electric. He was a member of the Leo Masonic Lodge, Fort Wayne Scottish Rite, Mizpah Shrine Temple, St. Joe Athletic Club, Firefighters Union Local 124, Fort Wayne Electrical Contractors Association, and a son of the American Legion Post 420.
Vic is survived by his wife, Julia Webster Rigsby; son, Stephen (Nicole) Rigsby; grandchildren, Kelsea (Adam) Gold, Jonah (Hannah) Rigsby, and Grayson Rigsby; great-grandchildren, Paxton Gold, Hattie Rigsby, and Everley Gold; brother, Wayne Rigsby; and sister, Judi (Jim) Lengacher. He was also preceded in death by his wife, Marcia K. Rigsby, daughter, Stephanie K. Rigsby, brother, Jeff Rigsby and sister, Betty Bennett.
JEFFREY MARK MEYER, 59, of Fort Wayne, lost his final battle with cancer on Monday, April 22, 2019, at home surrounded by his loving family and friends. "He was a devoted husband, father, brother, uncle and friend." Born Jan. 12, 1960, in Bluffton, he was the son of the late Paul and Sarah Jane Meyer, and and raised in Ossian. Jeffrey is survived by his wife of 34 years, Danette; sons, Miles A. Meyer and Leighton J. Meyer, both of Fort Wayne; sisters, Jackie (Robert) Ely of Montgomery, Ala., and Debra Nutter of Fort Wayne; brother, Doug Meyer of Fort Collins, Colo.; aunt, Ida Aschliman of Bluffton, Ind.; five nieces and nephews, and several cousins.
Charles E. Graf Jr., 71, of Fort Wayne died March 31, 2019,in Fort Wayne, IN. Charles was born to the late Charles E. (Margaret “Peg”) Graf Sr. on August 26, 1947 in Fort Wayne. He Graduated Central Catholic High School in 1966 and went on to work for the Fort Wayne Fire Department for 32 years as a Captain. He loved his cigars and Notre Dame Football and Basketball. Charles is survived by Two Daughters, Barbara Graf and Michelle Graf and Son, Jason Graf. Charles was preceded in death by his wife of 42 years Rebecca Graf.
EUGENE H. SNOUFFER JR. (GENO), 88, went home to his Savior and Lord on Tuesday, March 19, 2019, in the presence of his family. Born on April 13, 1930, Geno was wholeheartedly committed to his wife, Alice, to whom he was married for 68 years, as well as to loving and providing for his six children. He often expressed that his greatest rewards in life were grounded in the God-given gift of family and the blessings that came from it. Geno was a U.S. Armyveteran, a firefighter, and owner of Snouffer Quality Homes. Private services were held by the immediate family. A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Memorials may be made to Visiting Nurse Hospice Home and/or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Arrangements by Midwest Funeral Home and Cremation Society.
DonaldR. Edwards, 90, of Fort Wayne, passed away on Friday, March 15, 2019. He was born on March 23, 1928, to Chester and Lillian Lorean ( Elliott) Edwards in Bloomington, Indiana. His parents, in-laws Charles and Lulu Bentley, beloved wife Ruth, his daughter, Julie Baker, and son-in-law Jim Bringman, preceded him in death. Don served in the Army from 1946-1948 as a Military Policeman and Firefighter attaining the rank of Private First Class prior to his honorable discharge. He was a graduate of North Side High School and attended college at Indiana University in Bloomington, Indiana. Don was career Firefighter for the City of Fort Wayne retiring in 1981 as a Captain. He also worked for E. V. Harman and Son. Many homes and businesses still stand today with custom cabinets and rooms built by Don. He was trained by his father, Chester, who was also a skilled finishing carpenter. In his later years, he met Lucio and started to work for Peg Perego Company. The Peregos became like family to him, and he worked in some capacity for Lucio and Anna until his late 80's. He is survived by seven children, Laura Bringman, Doug (Stana) Edwards, Lisa Edwards, Mindy (Mark) Thoma, Charlie ( Kim) Edwards, Brian ( Deb) Edwards, Susan (Jeff) Brooks, and son-in-law Phil Baker, as well as 22 grandchildren, and 12 great- grandchildren. He is also is survived by his sister Phyllis Flanagan and sister-in-law Lucille Gilliom, along with many nieces and nephews. Don's family would like to especially thank Deb, who was his main caregiver, and Carole and Michelle of Comfort Keepers . The ladies took great care of our dad over the last two years. We also want to thank Eric, Brittany, Alex, and the staff at North Woods Village.
ALBERT L. LAPP, 83, of Fort Wayne, passed away on Sunday, March 10, 2019, at Aperion Care in Fort Wayne. Born Nov. 3, 1935, in Fort Wayne, he was a son of Russell Lapp and Emma Saveio. Albert graduated from Central Catholic High School in Fort Wayne. He served his country honorably with the United States Navy. He worked as a firefighter for 25 years with the Fort Wayne Fire Department. Albert also worked for Wayne Pipe & Supply for many years. In his early years, he enjoyed fishing and golfing. Albert was meticulous with his lawn care and logging into his computer. Survivors include his children, Cindy (Terry) Howell of Fort Wayne, Cathy Trammel of Fort Wayne, Janis Boschet of South Bend, Russ (Dawn) Lapp of Garrett, Duane (Erica) Lapp of Garrett, and Brian Laird of Texas; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and sister, Beverly Hooper of Indianapolis, Ind. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife of 40 years, Lorena "Lorrie" Kraft; and brothers, Russ Lapp and Tom Lapp.
DeWAYNE COMPTON, 79, died Sunday, Feb. 10, 2019. Born Feb. 2, 1940, in Fort Wayne, he was a son of Elmer L. and Mabel D. (Linde man) Compton. He married Sandra L. Grothaus on Oct. 18, 1958; she preceded him in death on Dec. 4, 2010. DeWayne was a retired fireman with the Fort Wayne Fire Department following more than 20 years of service. Survivors include his daughters, Deborah (Ralph) Koontz of New Haven, Rebecca (David) Kline of New Haven and Martha (Mike) Lauer of Fort Wayne; four grandchildren; nine great- grandchildren; brother, Robert (Nancy) Compton of Fort Wayne; sister, Phyllis Dull of Fort Wayne; and brother, Roger (Carol) Compton of Decatur. He was preceded in death by a brother, Lorin Compton.
ROLAND QUINTIN "RON" HITE, 80 passed away Friday, January 11, 2019 at Saint Anne Home and Retirement Community of Fort Wayne, IN. He was a native and lifetime resident of Fort Wayne and born to the late Max Q. and Marjorie Hite. Ron graduated from South Side High School in 1956. He served in the US Air Force and 122FW Air National Guard. Ron was a Firefighter with the City of Fort Wayne until his retirement. He was a member of the First Assembly of God Church and was a faith-filled and devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He loved to rock his grandchildren on the porch swing. He was a home electronics enthusiast and accomplished musician, playing several instruments including steel guitar, piano, violin, accordion, and clarinet. Ron is survived by his loving wife of 60 years Judith E. Hite of Fort Wayne, IN; children Jeffrey A. Hite of Tucson, AZ; Sherry A. Clem of Fort Wayne, IN: Pamela S. (Stephen) Shoda of Fort Wayne, IN: brother Kenneth A. (Karen) Hite of Albion IN; grandchildren Sheila, Stephanie, Max, Blaise (Megan), Gregory and Nicholas; and great grandson Alexander Hite. Preceded in death by his son in law William Clem.
John Allen Smith, 87, passed Thursday, September 27, 2018 with family at his side. Born in McMinnville, Tennessee, he was a son to the late, Sherman Luther Smith and Eva “Myrtle” (Patterson) Smith. He was an active combat war veteran in the Marines during the Korean War. He married the love of his life on November 7, 1953, Joan. He was a retired Fire Captain for the Fort Wayne Fire Dept., serving over 20 years. Also during that time he was a driver for Aalco Distributors. During the summer months the family would move to their Lake Gage home and enjoy the summers on the lake. After his retirement they lived up there for many years adding a new generation of memories. John had a strong since of honor, devotion and dedication to his wife, Joan keeping her in her home and taking care of her thru the years battling Alzheimer’s.
He is survived by wife of 65 years, Joan Ruth (Schweizer) Smith; children, Gary (Robin) Smith of Plain City, Ohio, Michael (Collette) Smith of Galena, Ohio and Lesa Starr of Fort Wayne; nine grandchildren, Brandon (Becky) Smith, Dustin (Kristin) Minthorn, Andrew Minthorn, Kyra (Steven) Bryan, Jessica Smith, Gabrielle Smith, Mikaela Smith, Monica Starr and Heather Starr; eight great grandchildren, Iivy, Bryson, Marrisa, Brynn, Stella, Payton, Grady and Leland; also survived by his life long friend, Gene Beekman.
He was preceded in death by siblings, Fred Smith, Clyde Smith, Doris Beck and Norma Pennington.
DONALD H. COCHRAN SR., 81, passed peacefully surrounded by his wife and children on Friday, Aug. 17, 2018. Born April 2, 1937 in Fort Wayne, Ind., he was the son of the late Raymond and Margaret Cochran. Donald retired after 20 years of service at the Fort Wayne Fire Department, serving many different roles during his service, one of which was the Chief of Arson Investigation. He retired for a second time from the City of Fort Wayne from Neighborhood Code Enforcement. He enjoyed the outdoors and was a fisherman and hunter. He enjoyed traveling with his wife in their spare time. He was a member of St. Patrick's Catholic Church of Arcola, and Knights of Columbus. Surviving are his wife of 61 years, Marsha Cochran; children, Joseph (Dorothy) Cochran, Cynthia (Jay) Hursh, Monica (Bob) Buescher, Donald (Mindy) Cochran Jr.; 22 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; daughter-in-law, Kim Cochran. He was also preceded in death by his son, John Cochran in 2016; and two brothers and one sister.
JULIAN F. FRANKE III, 78, passed away peacefully Sunday, May 27, 2018, at Lutheran Hospital surrounded by family. Born in Fort Wayne, he graduated from Central Catholic High School. He served in the U.S. Air Force from 1956 to 1962. Julian retired in 1985 after 23 years with the Fort Wayne Fire Department, serving as Captain for 14.5 years. He was also the manager with Fire Systems for 10 years, flight instructor for over 40 years, pilot for Britt Air, Chief Flight Instructor for Fort Wayne Air Service, and Flight Instructor for Eastern Cincinnati Aviation. He was a life member of Amateur Radio W9TQA, ARRL, Quarter Century Wireless Association, where he served as President for two terms, Fort Wayne Radio Club, and Fort Wayne Fire Department 20 year Club. Julian loved flying, collecting model trains, traveling, Ham Radio, and above all, his family. Surviving are his wife, Rosanne Franke of Roanoke, Ind.; sons, Julian (Mary Beth) Franke IV of Fishers, Ind., and Bradley (Terri) Frederick of Fort Wayne; daughter, Janette (Chad) Rothgeb of Ossian, Ind.;, son, Kurt (Kyra) Frederick of Fort Wayne; daughter, Rebecca (Frank) Merritt of Yoder, Ind.; sister, Carol Didier of Fort Wayne; 11 grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, and four step-grandchildren. Julian was preceded in death by parents Julian and Evelyn Franke Jr.; and sister, Jane Brown.
RAY GRAFT, 62, of Fort Wayne, passed away on Monday, March 5, 2018, in Fort Wayne. Born Nov. 25, 1955, in Mt. Sterling, Ky., he was the son of Mary (Thurman) Graft. Ray graduated from South Side High School in Fort Wayne. He served his country honorably with the United States Air Force. Ray retired from the Fort Wayne Fire Department as a firefighter. During his career at the fire department, he served as captain and a public information officer. After retirement, he worked for Enterprise and the American Red Cross. On Aug. 3, 2016, Ray married Deanna Hayes in Las Vegas, Nev. Ray loved to travel and enjoyed frequenting Las Vegas, Aruba, and Jamaica. He was into technology and was extremely tech savvy. Ray enjoyed shopping online and gambling in casinos. He was very charasmatic and a people person. Survivors include his spouse, Deanna Hayes of Fort Wayne; mother, Mary Graft of Fort Wayne; sons, Jeromy Joe (Christa) Graft of Brownsburg, Ind. and Jeffrey Ray (Audrey) Graft of Fort Wayne; grandchildren, Devon and Gavin Graft, both of Brownsburg, Ind., and Paul and Charlie Graft, both of Fort Wayne; stepson, Eric (Grayce) Holloway of Fort Wayne; step-grandchildren, Makenzie and Izaiah Holloway, both of Fort Wayne; and aunt, Ruth Graft of Snow Lake, Ind. Ray was preceded in death by his father.
DON SCHMUTTE, 79, of Fort Wayne, passed away on Wednesday, Feb. 14, 2018. He was the son of the late Everett and Virginia (Keith) Schmutte. He served in the U.S. Navy. He worked as a Fort Wayne Fireman for 21 years before retiring. He also worked at Lindenwood Cemetery in maintenance. He enjoyed being a Ham radio operator, eating, and shopping. Surviving family include his daughters, Kari (Troy) Karshner and Niki Schmutte; and granddaughters, Morgan and Lauren Karshner. He was also preceded in passing by his wife, Lana J. (Howard) Schmutte; and sister, Betty Hoelle.
ERIC W. "RICK" GARMAN, 66, passed away Saturday, Dec. 30, 2017. Born in Fort Wayne, Ind., Eric was the son of the late Austin and Marjorie Garman. Eric graduated from North Side High School, class of 1970. Eric faithfully served as a Fort Wayne Firefighter for over 20 years prior to retiring. He enjoyed spending time at the lake. Eric loved to hang out with his family and friends. Surviving are his wife of 41 years, Janice Garman of Fort Wayne; brothers, Gary Garman of Fort Wayne, Gregg (Carol) Garman of Grabill; nephews, Brandon and Shawn Garman; niece, Danelle Dapp; and uncle, Don McCoy of Fort Wayne.
RONALD "RON" BERNARD WALDEN, 73, passed away Friday, Oct. 13, 2017. Born in Fort Wayne, Ind., he was a son of the late Bernard Walden and Helen Walden of Fort Wayne,, who survives. He was a graduate of Elmhurst High School class of 1962. Ron was a retiree from the Fort Wayne Fire Department having held many ranks throughout his career. He was a District Chief and Chief of the Fire Prevention Bureau. Ron also served as President of the Firefighters Union IAFF Local 124 from 1975-1978. Ron remained extremely proud his entire life, to have served with the many fine members of the FWFD. Ron was also the co-founder (with his wife of 53 years, Sharon) and owner of Kleenit, Inc. until 2005. Ron was an avid golfer, and enjoyed the time he was able to spend with his sons, grandsons, and the many good friends he made while being a member at Pine Valley Country Club and later at PGA National in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla., where he and Sharon lived for the past 25 years. Since becoming a grandfather in 1987, he has been known as Pa (paw), to his children and grandchildren. "We will miss his daily involvement in our lives, the ball games, golf matches, cheer competitions, hockey games, dance recitals, school functions. Above all else, he always made his family his priority. We will all miss your smile, your laughter, your guidance, but most of all your unconditional love". Ron was a member of Trinity English Lutheran Church. Surviving are children, Shelly (Anthony) David of Fishers, Scott (Shelly) Walden of Fort Wayne, Gregory Walden of Indianapolis; grandchildren, Ashley, Zachary, Alexa, and Xavier Walden, Joel, Anthony, Nathaniel, and Rylan David; siblings, Rebecca Bunn of Fort Wayne, and Daniel (Marty) Walden of Winston Salem, NC. Ron was also preceded in death by his granddaughter, Kennedy Aerin Walden, and his beautiful wife Sharon Rose Walden. The service is at 11:30 a.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2017 at Trinity English Lutheran Church, 450 West Washington Street. with calling two hours prior. Rev. Dr. Kathleen Haller officiating. Entombment in Catholic Cemetery, Fort Wayne, Ind. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Cancer Services of Northeast Indiana. D.O. McComb & Sons Pine Valley Park Funeral Home, 1320 E. Dupont Rd., is handling arrangements.
CAPTAIN ERIC J. BALLIET, 41, passed away Wednesday, Sept. 27, 2017 during a training session with the Fort Wayne Fire Department. He was a native and lifetime resident of Fort Wayne. Eric graduated from Northrop High School in 1994 and earned his associate degree from Ivy Tech. Eric was a 19-year veteran of the Fort Wayne Fire Department; a paramedic with Three Rivers Ambulance Authority, a Deputy Coroner with the Allen County Coroner's office since 2009, Captain of Traffic Division for Allen County Sheriff Reserves and Dean of Campers at the Great Lake Burn Camp of Jackson, Mich. He was a member of Pathway Christian Church. Eric was passionate about his family as well as his service to the community. He received numerous achievements through both Fort Wayne Fire Department in addition to the other organizations he served. His family and friends will miss his love, and his ability to light up a room with his humor and genuine love for people. His heart was larger than his stature. Surviving are his loving wife, Alicia K Balliet and their twin children, Lucas and Alyssa of Fort Wayne, Ind.; father, Gail R (Elaine) Balliet of Angola, Ind.; mother, Deborah (Thomas) Armento of Spring Hill, Tenn.; brother, Aaron Balliet of Fort Wayne, Ind.; sister, Tina (Matt) Willis of Angola, Ind.; grandmother, Nancy LeValley and grandfather, Raybourn LeValley of Florida; in-laws, Robert (Dorothy) Zimmerman of Clearwater, Fla.; brother-in-law, Robert (Karen) Zimmerman of Fort Wayne, Ind.; sister-in-law, Carrie (Michael) Miller of Angola, Ind.; grandmothers, Catherine Roth of Huntertown, Ind.; Roberta Roth of Fort Wayne, Ind.; several nieces, nephews and cousins. Eric was preceded in death by grandparents, Grandville "Ty" and Phyllis Balliet.
JAMES J. "JIM" GLASER, 78, passed away Monday, Sept. 11, 2017, in Fort Wayne. Born in Fort Wayne, Jim worked as a firefighter with the City of Fort Wayne for 25 years, retiring in 1988. He was a 1958 graduate of Central Catholic High School. He was a member of St. Joe Athletic Club and 20 year club member - Fort Wayne Firefighters. Jim loved to hunt, fish, golf, play cards, and cook. He enjoyed family trips to Florida and Canada. Jim and Sharon loved going to Jimmerson Lake with family and friends for over 30 years. They were also snow birds at the villages in Florida. Jim also loved all sports and history. He was a loving family man and will be greatly missed. Surviving are his wife of 57 years, Sharon R. Glaser of Fort Wayne; three children, Julie Yarde of Fremont, Ind., Daniel Glaser of Fort Wayne, and Janice (Kenneth) Fosnaugh of New Haven, Ind.; seven grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren with two on the way. Jim was preceded in death by father, Edward Glaser; mother, Catherine Glaser; siblings, Edward Glaser, Carolyn Buckmaster and Leonard Glaser.
Milton "Corky" Randolph Turner surrounded by family passed away at St. Joseph's Hospital on August 15, 2017. Corky was a graduate of the class of 1963 from Central High School. He joined the Air Force in 1963, after which he continued his job as a firefighter with FWFD where he retired in 2006 as Captain. He continued to work for FWCS for a few years after his retirement. Corky was well known for his famous "Corky's" BBQ sauce. He loved fishing and was known as a smooth dancer. He was a member of the American Legion Post 148, VFW 8147, and a lifetime member of IAFF, and a member of the Black Firefighters Union.
Corky leave to cherish his memory; faithful son, Michael (Gayle) A Randolph; and the loving father of the step children he raised; April "Boogie", Kim, Robin, Joey, Corshonda, and Juggie; 4 grandchildren; 1 great-granddaughter; sisters, Sharon (Reggie) Jordan, Linda "Squeak" Causey, Marsha (Rick) White, Christina Goings; brothers, Carlos Goings, Harrison Madison.
He was preceded in death by his wife of 20 years, Mary V. Turner; and mother, Mabel R. Goings.
A funeral service will be held on Saturday, August 19, 2017 at 3pm at D.O. McComb & Sons Funeral Home 1140 Lake Ave., Fort Wayne, IN 46805.
Visitation will be held two hours prior.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Allen County SPCA.
ROBERT "BOB" SCHWEPPE, 85, passed away Saturday, July 15, 2017. Born in Fort Wayne, Bob was the son of the late Carl and Clara Sch weppe. He graduated from Elmhurst High School. He served our country in the U.S. Army as a paratrooper in the 187th Infantry Regiment known as the Rakkasan. Bob retired from the Fort Wayne Fire Department in 1987 after 30 years of service. Following his retirement from the Fire Department, Bob became an officer for the Allen County Sheriffs Department for five years. He was a member of Waynedale Lodge No. 739, F.&A.M. Mizpah Shriner, and Scottish Rite. Bob loved being active. He participated in many marathons through the years. He also enjoyed hiking, walking, reading, history, and gardening. Surviving are his daughter, Karen (Kurt) Haag of Fort Wayne; son, Chris (Andrea) Schweppe of Fort Wayne; grandson, Trace Schweppe; step-grandchildren, Austin Douglas, Chad (Jennifer) Haag, Brad Haag, and Allison (Dustin) Wolf; and step-great-grandchildren, Braxton, Norah, Jeffrey, and Jacob. Bob was preceded in death by his siblings, Carl Schweppe, Mary Dautz, Helen Jahn, and Dorothy Dunn.
LesterT. Sorgen, 60, passed away Tuesday, April 25, 2017 at St. Joseph Hospital. Born January 12, 1957 in Fort Wayne. Les graduated from Elmhurst HS and previously worked as a welder for Teco before becoming a Firefighter for the city of Fort Wayne for 24 years. He was a member of St Joseph Hessen Cassel Catholic Church , IAFF Local 124, American Legion Post # 241 and former member of the Red Knights. Lester loved to ride his motorcycle, especially long motorcycle rides, playing golf, cooking and spending time with his family and friends. He was an all around people person and lived his life to the fullest. He was never bored nor ever boring. Surviving are his wife, Kathy L. Sorgen of Fort Wayne, daughter, Jamie (Kirk Bengs) Masters of Spencerville; son, Jacob (Alicia) Sorgen of Fort Wayne; daughter, Jennelle (Phillip) Rocha of Fort Wayne, Grandchildren Caleb, Cadynce, Dawson, Bennett, Penelope, Oliver; brothers, Steven (Cheryl) Sorgen, Hoagland, Stanley (Marti) Sorgen II, Indianapolis; sister, Pamela (Scott) Wallace, Lithia FL. Lester was preceded in death by his parents Stanley and Patricia Sorgen, brother, Bruce Sorgen, infant sister, Cheryl Sorgen. Mass of Christian Burial is 11:00am Monday, May 1, 2017, St. Joseph Hessen Cassel Catholic Church, 11337 South US 27 Ft. Wayne, IN with Fr. William Kummer, officiating. Calling Monday 9:00am with prayers at 9:45am at D.O. McComb & Sons Lakeside Park Funeral Home, 1140 Lake Avenue. Calling also Sunday from 1:00pm to 6:00pm at D.O. McComb & Sons Lakeside Park Funeral Home. Burial in St. Joseph Hessen Cassel Cemetery, Memorials may be made to the St. Joseph Hospital Burn Center or Emergency Responders Burn Foundation. To sign the online guest book, go to www.domccombandsons.com
EDWIN EARL BICKNESE, 83, passed away Saturday, March 18, 2017. He was a lifelong resi dent of Fort Wayne, the son of the late Earl and Thelma Bicknese. Ed attended South Side High School, graduating in 1952. He served the Fort Wayne community as a firefighter for 26 years, retiring in 1986. He enjoyed going to antique shows, and worked at a local antique shop after his retirement. Ed enjoyed spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren, and also spending time at Leo Caf‚ with his friends. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Nancy Bicknese; children, Lori Losher, and Lisa Bicknese; grandchildren, Timothy (Tiffany) Losher, Daniel Losher, Lindsay Losher, Zachary (Jessica) Bicknese, Brian (Jessica Richey) Bicknese; great-grandchildren, Madelyn Losher, Lola Bicknese, London Bicknese; and his cats, Katie, and Butch. He was preceded in death by his son, Christian Bicknese.
ARNOLD M. BULTEMEIER, 90, passed away comfortably on Tuesday, Jan. 31, 2017. Born 30, 1926, he was a son of Charles and Clara (Buuck) Bultemei er. He was baptized and confirmed at St. Paul's Lutheran Church, Preble, Ind. On Oct. 4, 1947, he married Anita Hor mann; she preceded him in death in 2003. Arnie was a Fort Wayne Fire Fighter and his highest rank was a District Chief. The Adams County native retired from the department in 1985 after 23 1/2 years. He alo was a delivery man for Sears and Sandpoint Greenhouse. He was a member of Bethlehem Lutheran Church and was an usher and a deacon for many years. He had many other jobs at Bethlehem, including changing the sign in the front yard. He was a World War II veteran that served in the Navy in the Pacific. He was a member of the Legion Post 47 and a member of the Fire Fighter Local 124. He is survived by his son Dale (Pat) Bultemeier; three grandsons, Kent (Kelly) Bultemeier of Centennial, Colo., Kevin Bultemeier of Indianapolis, Ind., Logan (Courtney) Bultemeier of Charlotte, N.C.; siblings, Norbert (Jeanette) Bultemeier of Decatur, Ind., Ludella (Verlin) Bultemeier of New Haven, Ind. and Waldo (Rosie) Bultemeier of Decatur, Ind. He was preceded in death by his brother, Ervin Bultemeier, in 2005.
JAMES RYDER, 84, passed away Thursday, Jan. 5, 2017. Born Sept. 12 1932, he was the son of the late George and Mary Ryder. James graduated from South Side High School. Upon graduating, he joined the U.S. Air Force and served as a jet mechanic. James worked as a firefighter with the Fort Wayne Fire Department for 27 years, retiring in 1987. James enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren, fishing, and carpentry. Surviving are his daughter, Elizabeth (Shawn) Patterson; grandchildren, Sophia and Tony Patterson; and brothers, Paul and Joseph Ryder. He was preceded in death by his brother, Norbert Ryder.
THOMAS E. CASTLE, 68, passed away on Thursday, Sept. 29, 2016, at St. Joseph Hospital after a long battle with Myasthenia Gravis. Born March 25, 1948, he was the son of Hazel and William Castle. He married his wife Cappy on Aug. 9, 1974. They welcomed their daughter Katie in 1980. Tom was a graduate of North Side High School. He served our country in Vietnam and upon his heroic return, began serving our city with the Fort Wayne Fire Department. He retired in 1995. After his retirement, he drove motor coach and worked for Bailey Trucking. He was an active parishioner of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, Fort Wayne, a supporter of Bishop Luers High School, a lover of music, and an avid outdoorsman. Tom was a proud member of the 4th Degree of Knights of Columbus and the 20 year club of F.W.F.D. Tom will be missed by many whose lives he touched in one way or another. Those missing him most include his loving wife, Cappy; daughter, Katie; sister, Elaine (Gary) Skorman of Orlando, Fla.; many nieces, nephews, cousins and family friends, Craig and Diana Bartscht.
Melvin Conrad #253 died on 9-27-16 at age 79. Mel served our Dept. for 18 years from 4-6-1969 until medical reasons forced him off the job on 4-8-1987. He spent his retirement years in Minnesota and his son stated that a memorial service would take place here sometime next spring.
GLEN DALE BROWER, 87, of Heritage Pointe, Warren, Ind., formerly of Fort Wayne, Ind., passed away Monday, Sept. 5, 2016 at 6:45 p.m. at Lutheran Hospital in Fort Wayne.Born on Sunday, Dec. 2, 1928 in Whitley County, Ind., he was a son of the late Roy Brower and Cora (Chesterman) Brower. He married Marilyn Tanner on July 24, 1954 in Fort Wayne; she passed away on Sept. 17, 2013. Glen was a firefighter for the City of Fort Wayne for 30 years and a member of the Fort Wayne Professional Firefighters Union. He enjoyed woodworking, fishing, camping, grilling and gardening. Survivors include son, Gerry (Margaret) Brower of Bellville, Texas; daughter, Teresa (Sanford) Stanton of Pensacola, Fla.; sister, Phyllis Gidleyof Carmel, Ind.; six grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren. In addition to his parents and wife he was preceded in death by a brother, Donald Brower of Fort Wayne.
THOMAS ALAN MARSHALL, 75, passed away on Sunday, July 19, 2020, at Parkview Hospital - Randallia in Fort Wayne. Born in Fort Wayne, he was a son of the late Stephen and Laura Marshall. Thomas was a 1963 graduate of South Side High School. He then earned his degree in Heating and Air Conditioning from Ivy Tech College. Thomas served honorably in the U.S.
EDWARD L. GICK, 80, passed away Wednesday, Dec. 27, 2017 in Fort Wayne. Born in Fort Wayne, Ind., he was a son of the late Edward F and Ruth M Gick and had been a lifetime resident. Edward graduated from South Side High School in 1955 and was a member of the National Guard. Edward is a retired Captain, Station 13 with the Fort Wayne Fire Department with 28 years of service. Ed relished traveling, camping and shopping. Edwards's life passion was cars, shoes and spending time with his family, friends and grandchildren. Surviving is his loving wife of 62 years, Edith "Pat" Gick of Fort Wayne, Ind.; daughter, Julie (David) Gessner of Port Saint Lucie, Fla.; brother, Alan W Gick of Fort Wayne, Ind.; sister, Sally A (George) Stilwell of Churubusco, Ind.; grandchildren, Tracie M. (Glen Williams) McBride of Fort Wayne, Ind., Christopher Markowski of Port Saint Lucie, Fla., Jessica Patty of Port Saint Lucie, Fla.; great-granddaughters, Keisha (Ian) Kristoff, Alicia McBride, and a great-great-grandson, Julian Kristoff.
STEPHEN M. "STEVE" DEARING, 72, passed away peacefully Tuesday, Aug. 16, 2016, at Visiting Nurse in Fort Wayne. Born in Fort Wayne, Ind., Steve was the son of the late Ralph and Patricia Dearing. Stephen worked for the Fort Wayne City, Fire and Dispatch for 20 years before moving on to his second career. He founded D&D Associates which he owned and operated for over 20 years before retiring in 2013. Steve was a NASCAR fan and loved playing cards with his cousin John every week. He looked forward to his occasional trips to Hoosier Park and enjoyed his backyard garden every summer. Surviving are his wife, Christine "Tina" Dearing of Fort Wayne; daughter, Kris Dearing of Fort Wayne; step-daughter, Jen (Andrew) McKeever of Fort Wayne; and his best pet friend Donnie Dearing. Stephen was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Ronald Dearing. Memorial Service is 11 a.m., Monday, Aug. 22, 2016, at D.O. McComb & Sons Covington Knolls Funeral Home, 8325 Covington Road, with calling one hour prior. Deacon Rob Seewald officiating. Calling also from 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 21, 2016 at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to the Visiting Nurse Hospice.
CAPT. RYAN R. ALDRICH, 67, of Daytona Beach, Fla., died Tuesday, Aug. 9, 2016. Capt. Aldrich was a well-known yachtsman in the Daytona area and was a member of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary. He was employed as a Watch Superintendent at the Halifax Yacht Harbor in Daytona Beach and before that worked as a yacht consultant at West Marine for over a decade. He also worked as a private captain for several families on the East Coast of Florida. Aldrich moved to the Daytona area in 1989, following many years as a public safety officer with the police and fire departments in Fort Wayne, Ind. Surviving are daughters, Jacquie Aldrich of Fort Wayne and Heather Marini of Peoria, Ariz.; six grandchildren; a great-grandson; and special friends, Reuben and Angelina Morgan.
CHARLES E. IMLER, 86, went to be with his Lord and Savior Friday, June 10, 2016, at Lutheran Life Villages. He was a lifelong resident of Fort Wayne. Born May 16, 1930, he was a son of the late William and Margaret Imler. He was a graduate of Central High School and served in the United States Air Force from 1951 to 1953 during the Korean War. On April 10, 1954, he married Martha J. Walker and together they recently celebrated their 62nd wedding anniversary. Charlie was a firefighter with the Fort Wayne Fire Department for 27 years retiring as a Captain in 1980. For the next 18 years, he drove a school bus for Fort Wayne Community Schools. He was an active member of Emmanuel Lutheran Church, 917 W. Jefferson Blvd., Fort Wayne. Charlie was a dedicated husband and father and brought his family up to share a Christian faith. He also enjoyed being a Fort Wayne firefighter, laughing and making others laugh. His hobbies included traveling and bicycle riding with the love of his life, Marty, and cooking and cleaning, "Yes, we said cleaning." Surviving relatives include his wife, Marty; three children, Jeanne Imler (John Gebhard-Moodie), Sharon Doster (Tim Schumacker), and Tim (Susan Knipstein) Imler; five grandchildren, Lindy Doster and Madeline, Mitchell, Max and Ike Imler; brother, Ralph Imler; and sister, Betty Maszkiewicz. He was also preceded in death by two brothers, Bill and Robert Imler; and son-in-law Kevin Doster.
Charles "Chuck" Ray Raugh, 78, passed away Thursday, March 3, 2016 at his home in Fort Wayne. Born in Fort Wayne, Chuck was a Firefighter with the Fort Wayne Fire Department for over 21 years, retiring in 1984. He also worked for 38 years for Power Plant Services and will be missed by all of his friends at Powers Hamburgers. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and attending auctions. Surviving are his wife, Carol Raugh; sons, Scott (Cindy) Raugh, Greg (Shelly) Raugh, and Marty (Suzi) Raugh, all of Fort Wayne; 7 grandchildren; 5 great-grandchildren; brother, Larry (Barb) Raugh of Springfield, OH; and "Special Children": Richard, Jerry, Rick and Diana. Chuck was preceded in death by his parents, Elmer and Bernice Raugh; brother, Donald Raugh; and sister, Susan Perry. Celebration of Life Service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the SPCA, Heartland Hospice, and Fort Wayne Firefighters Museum.
Trifon Joseph "Steve" Bickis, 91, joined his beloved wife Wilma in dance on Saturday, January 23, 2016 surrounded by his family. Born in Fort Wayne, IN, Steve was a World War II veteran serving in the Navy and Merchant Marines. Steve then became a City of Fort Wayne Firefighter where he served his community for 22 years, retiring in 1978. Following retirement he took his love for plants and gardening to Sandpoint Greenhouse where he worked for several years. He was a member of the American Legion Post 296 and Firefighter Union Local 124. Steve enjoyed fishing, yard work and spending time with his family. Surviving are his children, Stephanie (Richard) Bickis-Swiatkowski of Tallahassee, FL, Steven Bickis of Madison, Susan (Gerry) Haft of Fort Wayne, George (Cindy) Bickis of Albion, David Bickis of Fort Wayne, Bret Bickis of Madison;12 grandchildren, and 9 great-grandchildren. Steve was preceded in death by his father Trifan Bichis, mother Sophia Cernea, step-father George Cernea, wife, M. Wilma Bickis, sister, VictoriaBickis, step-sisters, Jean and Ann Cernea.
KevinR. Rowden, 67, passed away Friday, January 22, 2016 in Fort Wayne. Born in Iowa City, IA, Kevinworked as a Firefighter with FWFD for 25 years, retiring in 1996. Surviving are his mother, Mildred Rowden; daughter, Heather Rowden of Fort Wayne, IN; brother, Steven Rowden of Lambertville, MI; Susan (Phil) Younger of Wautoma, WI; grandchildren, Olivia (Johnathan Niemeyer) Rowden, Victoria Trosper, and Demarcus Bennett; great-grandchildren, Johnathan Niemeyer, Jr. and Cameron Niemeyer.
James E. Waldrop, 84, of Columbia City, passed away at 1:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 21, 2016 at his residence. Born Sept 22, 1931 in Decatur, he was the son of Wayne D. & Ruth F. (Carrier) Waldrop. He attended Fort Wayne schools and graduated from Elmhurst High School wit the class of 1950. Fames worked for the Fort Wayne Fire Department for 23 years until his retirement in 1983.
RAYMOND E. "SKIP" KRIDER, 85, of Fort Wayne, passed away at 10:45 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 24, 2015, at Bethlehem Woods Nursing Home. He was born in Fort Wayne and was a lifetime resident. He was a Battalion Chief with the Fort Wayne Fire Dept., retiring in 1995 after 41 years of service. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army. He was a member of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, V.F.W., American Legion #82, KWVA Firefighters Museum. Surviving are his two sons, Raymond E. Krider of Fort Wayne and Phillip J. "Joann" Krider of Fort Wayne; four grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife, Carolyn A.; and two sons and one daughter.
Retiree Veronique Brown, Badge 270, passed today 7-24-15 at the age of 65. Veronique served our Dept. as a Pvt. for 25 years from 8-6-1972 until 8-6-1997 and was the child of deceased Retiree Roland Brown and Nephew of Retiree Julian Franke.
RALEIGH E. MYERS, 84, of Fort Wayne, died on Wednesday, May 27, 2015, at Visiting Nurse Hospice Home. Born Dec. 31, 1930, in Fort Wayne, he was the son of the late John E. Myers and Madge Miller Myers. He was a fire fighter for the Fort Wayne Fire Dept. He was a member of Most Precious Blood Catholic Church and Fort Wayne Turners, and was on the 1950 Central Catholic State Champion football team. Surviving are his wife, Georgean (Borkenstein) Myers of Fort Wayne; children, Janet (James) Niswonger, John (Mary) Myers, Jean (Larry) Lyons, Jodie (William) Jones, James Myers, Joe (Laura) Myers, and Joyce (Scott Lauer) Moss, all of Fort Wayne; 16 grandchildren; and 17 great-grandchildren.
MARC D. WASHINGTON SR., 64, passed Wednesday, May 20, 2015. Born July 10, 1950, in Richmond, Ind., he was a son of Ford and Gladys Washington. By age 5, his parents, Donald and Gladys Wilson relocated the family to Fort Wayne. Marc was a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and a retiree of the City of Fort Wayne having served on the city fire and street departments. He was also a lifelong handyman. Surviving are his children, Marc Jr. and Tanisha; son-in-law, Juan (Adrianne) Gorman; parents, Donald and Gladys Wilson and Barbara Washington; twin, Marsha (Ephraim) Smiley; and other siblings, Donald Jr., Paul (Mary Ann) Wilson Sr., Kim Basnight, Rodney (Cindy), Cheryl, Jeff (Sharon) Riley, and Teresa Washington; longtime companion, Ms. Jerry Dean McKinny; and a host of other family and friends. He was preceded in death by his father, Ford; and daughter, Tahirih Washington-Gorman.
AUSTIN J. GARMAN, 91, passed away Sunday, May 17, 2015, at Lutheran Hospital, Fort Wayne. Born in Cedarville, Austin was a firefighter with the City of Fort Wayne for 30 years, retiring in 1984. He was a World War II U.S. Army veteran and an avid golfer. Surviving are his sons, Eric (Janice) Garman and Gary Garman of Fort Wayne and Gregg (Carol) Garman of Grabill; and grandsons, Brandon and Shawn Garman, both of Fort Wayne. He was preceded in death by wife, Marjorie Jane Garman; parents, Raymond and Frieda (Deventer) Garman; and brother, Weldon Garman. Service is 2 p.m. Friday, May 22, 2015, at D.O. McComb & Sons Pine Valley Park Funeral Home, 1320 East Dupont Road, with calling one hour prior. Calling also from 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday, May 21, 2015, at the funeral home. Burial in Leo Memorial Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project.
DICK E. MESSER, 73, passed away Saturday, May 2, 2015. Born in Fort Wayne, Dick served in the Indiana Air National Guard 122nd Tactical Fighter Group from 1963 to 1969 as a jet engine mechanic and staff sergeant. He was a firefighter with the Fort Wayne Fire Dept. from 1968 to 1988 and received honors and commen-dations as Captain. He was an active member of American Legion Post 409, in Leo, serving in various positions. Dick served as president, vice president, and other board positions with the Fire Police City County Federal Credit Union. He was an avid NASCAR fan who enjoyed cars, animals and fishing. Dick loved his daughters and hanging out at the legion. Surviving are his daughters, Janis (Tim) Badgley of Fort Wayne and Susan (Christopher) Michaels of Kendallville; six grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his brother, James Messer.
James F. Dibble, 81, of Fort Smith, passed from this life April 7, 2015 in Fort Smith. He was born August 22, 1933 in Fort Wayne, Indiana to the late Francis and Margaret Wieneke Dibble. James was a veteran of the United States Army and was retired from the Fort Wayne Fire Department. After retirement, he and his wife moved to Hot Springs, where he was a volunteer and later Chief, of the Fountain Lake Fire Department and was a boiler operator for the Arkansas State Rehabilitation Hospital. He was a member of Heritage United Methodist Church in Van Buren and a life member of the VFW.
He is survived by his wife Gerlinde, of the home; two daughters, Kathleen Lewis and her husband Scott of Columbia City, Indiana and Barbara Rohr of Fort Wayne, Indiana; his son, Andrew Dibble and his wife Janet of Van Buren; one brother, Robert Dibble and his wife Carolyn of Port Charlotte, Florida, as well as three grandchildren, James Dibble, Nicole Matthews and Amy Dibble..
NATHANIEL JOHN MILLS, 41, of Huntington, died on Sunday, March 1, 2015, at his Huntington home with his family by his side. Born Aug. 6, 1973, in Marion, Ind., he was a son of John and Susan (Rice) Mills. He graduated from Huntington North High School in 1991. Nate married Racquel Bowman on July 15, 2002 in Huntington. Nate lived to help others and loved being a firefighter. He joined the Markle Volunteer Fire Department at the age of 19 and was a member of that department in different capacities until 2013. He was a full time emergency medical technician from 1998 until 2006. The State of Indiana made him a lifetime honorary EMT as a result of his years helping others. In 2006, Nate went to work as a full time firefighter for the Fort Wayne Fire Department. Nate was also a member of the Fort Wayne Professional Firefighters Local 124 and the Indiana Freemasons Amity Lodge 483. Survivors include his wife, Racquel Mills of Huntington; parents, Susan and John Mills of Huntington; daughter, Courtney (Kenyon) Inks of Huntington; son, Austin Gearhart of Huntington; grandchildren, Trinity White, Brailey White, Alivia Inks, and Landon Inks; brother, Tyler (Melanie) Mills of Fort Wayne; and sister, Katalina (Tyler) Moser of Poneto, Indiana.
William "Bill" J. Dolan, 90, passed away Thursday, January 1, 2015 at Parkview Regional Medical Center in Fort Wayne. Born in Fort Wayne, William served as a firefighter with the Fort Wayne Fire Department for 27 years. Bill was a member of Our Lady of Good Hope Catholic Church and served his country as a member of the U.S. Army during the Korean War. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the masses or the Our Lady of Good Hope Catholic Church building fund.
GEORGE A. BERGHOFF, 75, passed away Monday, Dec. 29, 2014 at Parkview Regional Medical Center in Fort Wayne. Born in Fort Wayne, George was a Firefighter for the City of Fort Wayne for 20 years. He then went to work as an electrician with the East Allen County Schools for 20 years before retiring in 2004. He was a charter member of NKPHTS. He was also a member of New Haven/ Adams Township Advisory Board, Firefighters Union, IAF Local 124. Surviving are his wife, Sandra Berghoff of New Haven; children, David Berghoff of Chicago, Ill., John Berghoff, Joseph (Cherie) Berghoff, Daniel (Sherri) Berghoff all of New Haven, William Berghoff of Albertsville, Ala., Laura Berghoff of Las Cruces, N.M., Denise (Joel) Harter, Michelle (Mark) Walters both of Fort Wayne; 14 grandchildren and; one great-granddaughter; and sister, Nancy (Don) Kispert of Warsaw. He was preceded in death by his parents, Anthony and Dorothy Berghoff; brother, Gilbert Berghoff; and granddaughter, Misty Berghoff. Mass of Christian Burial is 2 p.m. Friday, Jan. 2, 2015 at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, New Haven with calling from 1:30 p.m. until the service. Fr. William Sullivan officiating. Calling also from 2 to 5 and 7 to 9 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 1, 2015 at D.O. McComb & Sons Lakeside Park Funeral Home, 1140 Lake Avenue, with a vigil service at 4:45 pm. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the Firefighters Memorial Fund or Cancer Services of NE Indiana .
GARY D. WYMER, 68, died on Saturday, Dec. 13, 2014, at home. Born in Kendall ville, he was a University of St. Francis graduate and United States Navy veteran. He married Carol Ann Deam in Fort Wayne, in 1981. He was a firefighter for the City of Fort Wayne retiring after 32 years, and a member of the Fort Wayne Professional Firefighters Union. Surviving are his wife, Carol Wymer of Avilla; daughters, Angela (Michael) Toles of Kendallville, Leslie (Kerry) Peel of Auburn and Kristin Gantz of West Chester, Ohio; son, Nathan (Shannon) Wymer of Cary, N.C.; nine grandchildren; brothers, Richard (Sharon) Wymer of Huntington and Charles (Gloria) Wymer of Churubusco; and sisters, Ruth Austin of Fort Wayne, Patricia (Robert) Easterday of Kendallville and Nancy (Robert) Myers of Cortland, Ohio. Funeral service is noon Thursday, Dec. 18, 2014, at Hite Funeral Home, Kendallville, with visitation one hour prior. Visitation also from 4 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 17, 2014, at the funeral home. Burial in Lake View Cemetery. Memorials to First Christian Church youth ministries or Fort Wayne Professional Fire Fighters Local 124 - Fallen Heroes Fund. Send a condolence to the family or view a video Tribute of Gary at www.hitefuneralhome.com
Retiree Donald Steup (pronounced Stoip) passed September 8, 2014 at the age of 85. Don served the Dept. for 20.5 years from 12-14-1959 until 7-4-1980. He was a third generation Firefighter following his Grandfather and Father. He also had a Brother and two Uncles that served on our Dept. His Father Raymond died in the" Line of Duty" in 1948. Don spent his retirement in Bedford Indiana.
CHARLES M. HOPPEL, 85, of Fort Wayne, died on Sunday, Dec. 1, 2013, at Lutheran Hospital. The U.S. Marine veteran was a member of the AMVETS and American Legion. He retired as a Fire Fighter Captain with the City of Fort Wayne and was a member of the Fort Wayne Professional Fire Fighters Local 124. He is survived by a daughter, Mary K. Saylor; sons, Michael C. Hoppel and Martin B. (Paula) Hoppel; two grandchildren, Charles B. Hoppel and Michael J. Saylor; two great-grandchildren, Katelyn and Riley Hoppel; and a sister, Charlotte Cox. He was preceded in death by his wife, Betty J. Hoppel, in 2006; a daughter, Beth Ann Hoppel; a brother; and a sister. Funeral service is 11 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 4, 2013, at Covington Funeral Home, 8408 Covington Road, with calling one hour prior. Calling also from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 3, 2013, at the funeral home. He will be laid to rest at Lindenwood Cemetery. Preferred memorials to the Fort Wayne Professional Fire Fighters Local 124 - Fallen Heroes Fund. www.covington memorial.com
Published in Fort Wayne Newspapers on Dec. 3, 2013
ROBERT E. BAALS, 91, of Fort Wayne, passed away on Thursday, June 20, 2013. Born May 29, 1922, in Fort Wayne, he was a son of the late Clinton J. and Edna J. Baals. A member of Trinity English Lutheran Church, a 33rd degree Mason and member of the Scotish Rite of Free Masonry, he served his country in the U.S. Marine Corps, was a Fort Wayne Fire Fighter, for 29 years, and worked at General Electric. He is survived by his children, Jim (Gloria) Baals, and Linda Karn, both of Fort Wayne; as well as four grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren. He was also preceded in death by his wife of over 62 years, Phyllis Y. Baals, in 2011; sister, Janet Fuller; and three great-grandchildren. Funeral service is 11 a.m. Wednesday, June 26, 2013 at Klaehn, Fahl & Melton Funeral Homes, Wayne Street Chapel, 420 West Wayne Street, Fort Wayne, with calling one hour prior to service. Calling also from 5 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, June 25, 2013 at the funeral home. Burial will be in Lindenwood Cemetery, Fort Wayne. Memorial donations may be given to the Fort Wayne Firefighter's Museum. For online condolences visit www.klaehnfahlmelton.com
JAMES H. BELOT, 86, passed away on Wednesday, May 22, 2013, at Lutheran Hospital, Fort Wayne. Born in Fort Wayne, James worked as a firefighter with the City of Fort Wayne, retiring in 1978. He was a Navy veteran serving in World War II, and a member of St. Henry's Catholic Church. He was and avid card player especially with his family on Sunday afternoons. He enjoyed reading, golfing, fishing, and hunting. Surviving are his wife, Rita Belot of Fort Wayne; sons, James H. (Mary Jane) Belot III of Fort Wayne and Jeffrey M. Belot of Indianapolis; daughter, Beth (Stanley) Motyka of Ossian; and grandsons, Thomas Belot and Ben Motyka. He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Mae Belot; and brother, Robert Belot. Mass of Christian Burial is 11 a.m. Saturday, May 25, 2013, at St. Henry Catholic Church, 2929 E. Paulding Road, with calling one hour prior. Calling also from 2 to 5 and 7 to 9 p.m. Friday, May 24, 2013, at D.O. McComb & Sons Foster Park Funeral Home, 6301 Fairfield Ave. Burial in Catholic Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Masses or St. Henry's Catholic Church. To sign the online guestbook, please visit www.mccombandsons.com
THOMAS W. REICH, 78, of Deltona, Fla., passed away on Saturday, May 11, 2013, after a long illness. Tom spent his life in service to the public. Tom retired after 25 years with the Fort Wayne Fire Dept., serving at one point as a District Chief. Tom chose a new career in public service as a law enforcement officer upon retiring and relocating to Florida. Tom retired with the rank of Sergeant following 15 years as a Sheriff's Deputy with the Volusia County Sheriff's Dept. Surviving are his wife of 29 years, Gail; daughter, Maureen Cuney of Delray Beach; and son, Michael Reich of Fort Wayne. Memorial arrangements are pending. Burial will be announced and held at a later date in Lindenwood Cemetary, Fort Wayne.
Published in Fort Wayne Newspapers on May 19, 2013
RICHARD W. FETTERS, 83, passed away on Tuesday, April 9, 2013. Born in Bluffton, he was the son of the late Ed and Goldie Fetters. Dick was a retired firefighter with the City of Fort Wayne and co-owned Dick's Wholesale Tackle. He enjoyed fishing and fireworks. Surviving are his wife of 45 years, Nancy Fetters; daughters, Linda (Mike) Wyatt and Kim Fetters; brother Bill; sister, Grace; five grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. Service is 4 p.m. Saturday at D.O. McComb & Sons Lakeside Park Funeral Home, 1140 Lake Ave., with calling from 2 to 4 p.m. Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society . To sign the online guestbook, visit www.mccombandsons.com
ROBERT E. OMAN, 78, died on Sunday, March 24, 2013. Born Jan. 1, 1935, in Fort Wayne, he was a son of the late James and Dorothy (Golmer) Oman. He graduated from South Side High School, entered the United States Marine Corps, and honorably served his country for four years during the Korean War. Bob was a firefighter for the City of Fort Wayne Fire Department for 25 years. Bob lived to play golf. He was a member of the Firefighters Local 124, the Fort Wayne Firefighters 20 Year Club and Gethsemane Lutheran Church. Survivors include his wife, Susan Oman of Fort Wayne; son, Michael Oman of Fort Wayne; daughter, Lynette Paliganoff of Fort Wayne; stepdaughter, Kim Cameron of Bandera, Texas; three grandchildren, Adam Myer, Megan Paliganoff and Ethan Oman; three stepgrandchildren, Chandler Glover, Madison Salway and Conner Cameron; and brothers, Don (Bev) Oman of Fort Wayne and Alan (Trish) Oman of Indianapolis. He was also preceded in death by his brother, James Oman. Memorial service is 1 p.m. Saturday, March 30, 2013, at Gethsemane Lutheran Church, 1505 Bethany Lane, Fort Wayne, with visitation one hour before the service. Memorials to Gethsemane Lutheran Church or The Fort Wayne Rescue Mission. Send condolences at http://www.northern indianafuneralcare.com/ or find us on Facebook.com Arrangements by Northern Indiana Funeral Care of Fort Wayne.
JAMES L. FREDRICKS, 73, passed away on Wednesday, March 13, 2013. Born in Fort Wayne, Jim was a 1958 graduate of North Side High School. He was a firefighter with the City of Fort Wayne and retired as a captain. Jim was owner of Fredricks Lawn Care and Old Fort Myers Restaurant and most recently served as a guard at the City County Building. He was a member of St. Joseph United Methodist Church, Fort Wayne Turners, Firefighters Local 124, and Firefighters 20 year Club. Jim enjoyed golf and softball and established the Hoosier-Buckeye Softball Tournament. He was an avid Chicago Cubs and Bears fan and enjoyed following Notre Dame Football and I.U. Basketball. Jim loved spending time with his family and especially his grandkids. Surviving are his wife, Luanne Fredricks of Fort Wayne; daughter, Theresa (Richard) Musser of Nixa, Mo.; son, Scott (Tabitha) Fredricks of Fort Wayne; daughter, Cassie Fredricks of Fort Wayne; stepson, Zachery (Tiffany) Ellenwood of Albion; eight grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. Service is 10 a.m. Monday at D.O. McComb & Sons Lakeside Park Funeral Home, 1140 Lake Ave., with calling one hour prior. Calling also from 2 to 5 and 7 to 9 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home. Burial in Bowers Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the St. Joseph Hospital Burn Unit. To sign the online guestbook, please visit www.mccombandsons.com
DONALD "SPOOK" SPECHT, 76, passed away on Sunday, Feb. 10, 2013, at Visiting Nurse & Hospice Home, Fort Wayne. Born in Turtle Creek, Pa., Donald retired as a firefighter with the City of Fort Wayne for 20 years and was also retired owner of Donald A. Specht Remodeling. He was a member of The 20 Year Club with the Fire Dept. He enjoyed golfing, gardening, IU basketball, and Notre Dame football. Surviving are his wife, Betty L. Specht of Fort Wayne; son, Douglas (Lori) Specht of Huntertown; daughters, Sheryl (William) Roe of Humble, Texas and Laura (Jack) Lahrman of Fort Wayne; stepsons, Gregory Blain and Rick (Dawn) Blain, both of Fort Wayne; brother, Joseph (Carol) Specht of Fort Wayne; and sister, Dorothy Coleman of Fort Wayne; ex-wife, Glenda Remaklus; nine grandchildren; and 1 great-grandchild. Service is 11 a.m. Friday, Feb. 15, 2013, at D.O. McComb & Sons Lakeside Park Funeral Home, 1140 Lake Ave., with calling one hour prior. Gene Hollingsworth officiating. Calling also from 2 to 5 and 7 to 9 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 14, 2013, at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to the Fort Wayne Firefighter Museum or Visiting Nurse & Hospice Home, 5910 Homestead Road, Fort Wayne, IN 46814. To sign the online guestbook, please visit www.mccombandsons.com
RICHARD M. PATTEE, 77, passed away on Friday, Feb. 1, 2013, in Fort Wayne. Born in Fort Wayne, he work ed as a Firefighter with City of Fort Wayne for 20 years, retiring in 1986 and also worked as a mechanic for many years. He was a member the Retired Firefighters 20 Year Club. Surviving are his son, Jeff (LaDonna) Pattee of New Haven; daughter, Brenda (Steve) Brink of Fort Wayne; brothers, Ken Pattee and Tom Pattee of Fort Wayne; six grandchildren; and one great-granddaughter. He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Carolene Pattee; brother, Don Pattee; and parents, Merlin and Frieda Pattee. Service is 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 5, 2013, at D.O. McComb & Sons Lakeside Park Funeral Home, 1140 Lake Ave., with calling one hour prior. Calling also from 2 to 5 and 7 to 9 p.m. Monday, Feb. 4, 2013, at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to the Firefighters Fund or Parkinsons Foundation. To sign the online guestbook, visit www.mccombandsons.com
ROBERT WILLIAM "BOB" FRANKE, 94, of Fort Wayne, passed away on Friday, Jan. 25, 2013, at Visiting Nurse & Hospice Home, Fort Wayne. Born Jan. 18, 1919, at the family homestead near Hoagland and Franke Roads in Hoagland, Ind., he was the son of the late Herman and Iva Franke. Bob was a long time member of Bethlehem Lutheran Church, Fort Wayne. He served in World War II as a pilot in the Army Air Corp. Bob was a firefighterwith the Fort Wayne Fire Department, retiring in 1969. He also worked as a tool and die maker. Bob was proud of the decade he served as director for the Fort Wayne Little League District 10, he was very passionate about planes and enjoyed the time he spent around his fellow firefighters. He is survived by his wife of 69 years, Mildred; children, Cheryl (Ronald) Daseler, Bruce Franke, Dean (Janet) Franke, and Stanley Franke; grandchildren, Colin (Kelly) Daseler, Aaron Daseler, Haley Daseler, Jenni Franke, and Megan (Mike) Franke Coccitto; great-grandchildren, Presley Coccitto and Ava Daseler; step-grandchildren, Kyle Renkenber ger, Jake Renkenberger, and Ally Gallmeier; brothers, Ray and Roger Franke; brother-in-law, Maurice Keltsch; and sister-in-law, Ruth Cole. He was also preceded in death by his brother, Ralph Franke; sister, Helen Reynolds; and brother-in-law, Donald Keltsch. Funeral service is 11 a.m. Friday, Feb. 1, 2012, at Bethlehem Lutheran Church, 3705 S. Anthony Blvd., Fort Wayne, with calling one hour prior. Calling also from 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 31, 2013, at Klaehn, Fahl & Melton Funeral Homes, Winchester Road Chapel, 6424 Winchester Road, Fort Wayne. Entombment in Concordia Cemetery Gardens, Fort Wayne. Memorial donations may be given to Bethlehem Lutheran Church, Fort Wayne. For online condolences, visit www.klaehnfahlmeltonfunerals.com
LYLE G. FRETZ, 78, passed away on Wednesday, Dec. 19, 2012, at Visiting Nurse & Hospice Home, Fort Wayne. Born in Fort Wayne, he work ed as a firefighter with the City of Fort Wayne for 25 years, retiring in 1987, and also as a service technician for Nowak Supply for 24 years. She was a member of Risen Savior Lutheran Church and the Firefighters Union, Local 124. He was a great story teller and loved to go camping. Surviving are his wife, Joan Fretz of Fort Wayne; daughter, Terri (Steve) Squires of Fort Wayne; son, William (Bobbie Brunson) Fretz of Fort Wayne; stepsons, Randall (Nancy) Brunson of Huntington, Daniel (Robin) Brunson and Mark (Marcia) Brunson, both of Fort Wayne, Robert Tracie Brunson of Bluffton, and Timothy (Myra) Brunson of Fort Wayne; five grandchildren; 10 step-grandchildren; six great-grandchildren and six step-great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by first wife, Sally Fretz; parents, Gerald and Nancy Fretz; and step-grandson, Chad Brunson. Funeral service is 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 23, 2012, at D.O. McComb & Sons Lakeside Park Funeral Home, 1140 Lake Ave., with calling one hour prior. The Rev. Martin Gehring and the Rev. Donald Meyers officiating. Calling also from 2 to 5 and 7 to 9 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 22, 2012, at the funeral home. Entombment in Covington Memorial Gardens, Fort Wayne. Memorials may be made to the Firefighters Museum or Visiting Nurse & Hospice Home. To sign the online guestbook, visit www.mccombandsons.com
EDGAR "DICK" R. FENTON, 85, passed away on Thursday, Oct. 25, 2012. Born in Fort Wayne, Chick was a District Chief for the Fort Wayne Fire Department, retiring in 1984 after serving for 31 years. He was a member of St. Vincent dePaul Catholic Church; Firefighters Local 124 and American Legion Post 82. He was a Navy World War II and Korean veteran. He is survived by his wife, Sylvia; son, Richard (Sheila) Fenton of Fort Wayne; daughters, Diana (Thomas) Pate of Mechanicsburg, Pa. and Linda (Robert) Strabbing of Churubusco; three grandchildren, Rebecca, Heather and David; and two great-grandchildren, Maximo and Cecilia. He was preceded in death by his parents, Edgar and Evelyn; and sisters, Marilyn Gunkel and Marjorie Howenstine. Mass of Christian Burial is 10:30 a.m. Monday, Oct. 29, 2012, at St. Vincent dePaul Catholic Church, with calling one hour prior. Calling also from 2 to 5 and 7 to 9 p.m. Sunday at D.O. McComb & Sons Pine Valley Park Funeral Home, 1320 East Dupont Road, with Rosary recited at 3:30 p.m. Entombment in Catholic Cemetery. Memorials to the Firefighters Museum Station #3 or St. Vincent dePaul Catholic Church. To sign the online guestbook, visit www.mccombandsons.com.
HARRY R. NEUHAUS, 73, of Lake Charles, Angola, formerly of Fort Wayne, died Sunday, June 17, 2012. He was a 20 year fireman for the city of Fort Wayne, and after retirement, he became a pilot for Fort Wayne Air Service for five years. He was a United States Air Force veteran. Surviving are his wife, Kathleen Neuhaus of Angola; son, Grant R. Neuhaus of Fort Wayne; daughter, Christine Anne and Fred Bokel of Fort Wayne; six grandchildren, Stefanie and Randy Brooks, Elizabeth Bokel, Alexander Bokel, Alexis and Joe Ramey, Savanna Neuhaus, Grant R. Neuhaus, II; mother, Lucille Neuhaus of Fort Wayne; sister, Suzann Hans of Fort Wayne; and two brothers, Thomas and Richard Neuhaus of Fort Wayne. He was preceded in death by his father, Earl Neuhaus. Funeral Service is 1 p.m. Wednesday June 20, 2012 at Beams Funeral Home, Fremont, Ind. , with visitation two hours prior. Memorials to Riley Children's Hospital, Indianapolis. Arrangements by Beams Funeral Home of Fremont, Ind., 260/495-2915. Condolences may be sent online to www.beamsfuneralhome.com
Published in Fort Wayne Newspapers on June 19, 2012
R. RICHARD TAYLOR JR. "DICK", 72, of Fort Wayne passed away Thursday, June 7, at Parkview Regional Medical Center. He was retired from the Fort Wayne Fire Department, and had worked at Zollners. He was a member of The Fort Wayne Firefighters Local 124, the Firefighters 20 Year Club, the Fort Wayne Firefighters Museum, the St. Joe A.C., the Allen County Bass Masters, the senior bass circuit, and one of the founders of the firefighter scuba team. Surviving are his wife, Virginia Taylor of Fort Wayne; son, Richard (Susan) Taylor of Fort Wayne; son, Mark (Andrea) Taylor of Colorado; daughter, Teri Taylor of Florida; and four grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; and sisters Joan and Norma. Service is 10:30 a.m., Monday, June 11, 2012, at D.O. McComb & Sons Lakeside Park Funeral Home, 1140 Lake Avenue with visitation one hour prior. Visitation also from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m., Sunday, June 10, 2012, at the funeral home. Burial in Greenlawn Memorial Park. Memorials may be made to the Firefighters Museum or the American Diabetes Association. To sign the online guest book, go to www.mccombandsons.com.
ALLEN L. PLASTERER, 79, of New Haven, died on Friday, May 18, 2012, 7:15 p.m., at Golden Years Homestead where he had been a resident since 2009. Born Feb. 13, 1933, in Fort Wayne, he was a son of Richard W. and Myrtle (Lee) Plasterer. His formative years were spent in Fort Wayne where he graduated from Central High School. On Feb. 1, 1952, he enlisted in the United States Air Force, serving during the Korean War. He was honorably discharged on Jan. 31, 1956. He was employed for 21 years with the Fort Wayne Fire Department, retiring in 1979. He also delivered flowers for Indiana Flower Supply until 1988. On Jan. 29, 1983, he married Jacqueline L. Ramp. He was a member of Fort Wayne Firefighters Local 124. Surviving relatives include his wife, Jackie; three children, Dawn (Robert) Fiore and Rex (Juanita) Plasterer, both of Fort Wayne and Cheryl Walker of Huntington; two stepchildren, Laurie (Mark) Anderson of New Haven and Garrick (Jennifer) Cook of Fort Wayne; 13 grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a brother, Robert Plasterer; and two sisters, Glenna Army and Marylin Glover. Funeral service is 11 a.m. Thursday at Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City. Visitation is from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home. Burial in Lakeview Cemetery, Larwill. Preferred memorials to Firefighters Museum. Condolences may be sent to www.smithandsons funeralhome.com
Glen R. "Pudge" Lantz , 77, passed away Wednesday, May 9, 2012. Surviving are his son, Robert Lantz, daughter, Lisa (William) Blanton, grandchildren, Scott Lantz, Joshua Dube, John Flickinger, David Lantz, Billy, Austin and Kayla Blanton, 4 great grandchildren, brothers, Donald (Mary) Lantz and Ned (Judy) Lantz all of Fort Wayne and sister, Carolyn Krapesh of Clinton, IN. Glen was preceded in death by his wife of 56 years Carol Lantz, son, William Lantz, parents, 1 brother & 1 sister.
KENNETH N. KRAUSE, 83, of Fort Wayne, died on Saturday, March 17, 2012, at Parkview Hospital. Born in Fort Wayne, he was a member of Holy Cross Lutheran Church. He was a Fort Wayne Firefighter, retiring in 1979. Surviving are his daughter, Keneta Krause of Fort Wayne; sons, Steven Krause, Kevin Krause, Dean Krause, and David Krause, all of Fort Wayne; five grandchildren; one great-grandson; and brother, Charles Krause. He was preceded in death by his wife, Vaneta; two brothers; and two sisters. Funeral service is 2 p.m. Friday, March 23, 2012, at Hockemeyer & Miller Funeral Home, 6131 St. Joe Road, Fort Wayne, with calling one hour prior. Entombment in Concordia Cemetery Gardens.
Published in Fort Wayne Newspapers on March 21, 2012
BENJAMIN TAYLOR HARVILL, JR, 84, passed away Saturday, March 10, 2012 at Parkview Hospital in Fort Wayne. Born in Fort Wayne, he was a firefighter with the Fort Wayne City Fire Department for 23 years, retiring in 1974. He also worked as a security guard for Zollner Corp for 10 years after his retirement from the fire department. He was a member of First Wayne Street United Methodist Church, Maumee Masonic Lodge 275 F.& A.M., Scottish Rite Valley of Fort Wayne, Mizpah Shrine, Orchard Gallery. He was a US Navy Veteran where he served as a SeaBee. He was an avid wood carver, taught woodcarving and loved to play golf. Surviving are his wife, Barbara A. (Behny) Harvill of Fort Wayne; daughters, Janine Roser of Lutz, Fla., and Judith (Dan) Rickert of Fort Wayne; and son, Michael (Kathy) Harvill of Fort Wayne; five grandchildren; two great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his father, Benjamin T. Harvill; mother, Isbella (Proehl) Harvill; and two sisters. Service is 11 a.m. Tuesday, March 13, 2012 at First Wayne Street United Methodist Church, 300 E. Wayne Street with, calling one hour prior. The Rev. Greg Enstrom officiating. Calling also from 2 to 5 and 7 to 9 p.m. Monday, March 12, 2012 at D.O. McComb & Sons Maplewood Park Funeral Home, 4017 Maplecrest Road, Fort Wayne. Burial in Greenlawn Memorial Park. Memorials may be made to the First Wayne Street United Methodist Church or the Shriner's Hospital for Crippled Children.
It is with deep sadness to inform you that retired Fire Chief Dan West succumb to his illness on Tuesday, February 7th, 2012. HFD would like to extend our deepest and heart felt condolances to his wife Brenda, daughter Jennifer, as well as his entire family. Dan had battled aggressive renal cancer for the last six months.
Dan joined our department in the mid 1970’s as a volunteer and quickly rose through the ranks, even earning the Firefighter of the Year award in 1978. As it turned out, he found his calling in the fire service and decided to make it his career. In the early 1980’s, Dan was hired on with the Fort Wayne Fire Department. Even though he was now was a full time career firefighter, he remained very active on our department. So active in fact, that in 1987, Dan was elected Fire Chief. He served as chief for the next five years until stepping aside in 1992. During his time as chief, he began our transition from a mostly rural department to a more suburban one. He was a big proponent of the incident command system as well as more emphasis on training and fire fighter safety.
Dan was a natural leader and had the quintessential “command presence”. That command presence was obvious to anyone, weather it was in his actions, his body language and especially his voice. He just had a voice that exuded authority and respect. After stepping down as chief, he returned to the rank of Captain, his first true passion. He loved leading firefighters into battle. Also during this time, he took on a special project with our department. In 1992, we reclaimed ownership of our 1929 Model A engine. It was in very sad shape and needed a complete restoration. Dan and fellow former Fire Chief Bob Bremer took on the challenge. By 1994 he and Bob had completely restored “Old number 2” to in service condition.
Dan retired from both Fort Wayne And Huntertown Fire Departments in 2006 and moved to Florida. His contributions to our community will never be forgotten. Rest in peace Chief.
ROBERT E. WOLFORD, 77, of Geneva, Ind., passed away on Wednesday, Jan. 25, 2012. Born in Fort Wayne, he was an Army veteran and a Captain with the Fort Wayne Fire Dept. He was a member of West Missionary Church, Berne. He enjoyed playing pool at the Berne Senior Center and was an avid woodworker. He is survived by his wife, Janice Dausch Wolford; daughters, Janet Wolford of Fort Wayne, Dawn (Geoff) Waldau of Lithia, Fla. and Victoria (Doug) Wolford Osborne of Noblesville; step-daughter, Angie (Jeffrey) Miller of Ossian; stepson, Michael Dausch of Bluffton; 11 grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Ina Wolford; and brothers, Herbert and James Wolford. Service is 10 a.m. Monday, Jan. 30, 2012, at D.O. McComb & Sons Lakeside Park Funeral Home, 1140 Lake Ave., with visitation starting one hour prior. Visitation also from 2 to 7 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 29, 2012, at the funeral home. Burial in Covington Memorial Gardens. Memorials to West Missionary Church. To sign the online guestbook, visit www.mccombandsons.com
Published in Fort Wayne Newspapers on January 27, 2012
GARY FRANKLIN SMITH, age 66, of Eve Lake in LaGrange County, died on Sunday, December 25, 2011 at his home on Eve Lake.
Mr. Smith was born in Fort Wayne, Indiana on September 5, 1945 to the late Jacob Franklin and Gwendolyn Maxine (Kitzmiller) Smith who survives.
He served his country during the Vietnam War in the United States Navy from 1962 to 1966.
Gary was a retired Fort Wayne firefighter serving for 15 years on the Fort Wayne Fire Department.
He was also employed for 25 years with the Sears in Fort Wayne as a journeyman in the service department.
Gary loved spending time his daughter and grandkids. He was wonderful role model for them and a loving father, grandfather, and brother. He loved living on Eve Lake and the beauty of the outdoors. He enjoyed gardening, fishing, spending time in Florida. Gary was well loved by many with a wonderfully wicked sense of humor. He was a very funny guy who loved to laugh. He was also a very selfless man who was always thinking of how he could help others.
Gary enjoyed being with his friends at the American Legion Post #86, the V.F.W. Post #2749, the Moose and the Eagles Lodges all in Kendallville where he was a member.
Survivors include:
His mother, Gwendolyn Smith of Santa Claus, Indiana.
His daughter, Alexis Smith of Eve Lake in LaGrange County.
Grandchildren: Alyssa Smith and Kaiden Thacker both of Eve Lake.
Brother, Kevin and Jeanne Smith of Fort Wayne.
Sister, Vicki and Frank Fowler of Santa Claus, Indiana.
A niece and nephew: Ashley and Rick Baker of Algiers, Indiana and Robert Fowler of Santa Claus.
Visitation will be Tuesday, December 27, 2011 from 3:00-7:00pm at Hite Funeral Home, 403 South Main Street in Kendallville. Members of the Fort Wayne Fire Department will stand at the casket during calling hours in “silent guard” to honor of their fellow firefighter.
Funeral services with military honors will be Wednesday, December 28, 2011 at 11:00am at Hite Funeral Home.
Officiating the funeral service will be Rev. James Tews.
Military Honors will be conducted by members of the honor guard teams from VFW Post #2749, Kendallville and American Legion Post #381, Rome City. A flag folding ceremony will be conducted by active troops from the Fort Wayne Regional Honor Guard Team.
Preferred memorials may be made to Cancer Services Cancer Services of Northeast Indiana, 6316 Mutual Drive, Fort Wayne, Indiana 46825
Arrangements have been entrusted to Hite Funeral Home of Kendallville, Indiana
JOSEPH W. BONIFAS, 80, of Fort Wayne, died Sunday, Dec. 25, 2011, at his home. Born April 2, 1931, in Fort Wayne, he was the son of the late Charles D. and Georgia Grace (Gaunt) Bonifas. On April 14, 1951, he married Delorese Gilbert at Trinity United Methodist Church. He was a US Air Force Veteran and a career Firefighter with the Fort Wayne Fire Department, retiring as District Chief. He was also a member of the American Legion and the Firefighters Union. After retirement, he started Bonifas & Son Painting. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Delorese Bonifas; son, Joseph G. Bonifas; daughters, Shelley Warner, Teresa Roling and Susan Pollard; four grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.He was also preceded in death by a brother, Charles. Funeral service is 11 a.m. Friday, Dec. 30, 2011 at Trinity United Methodist Church, Putnam St., with visitation one hour prior to service. Visitation also from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 29, 2011 at C.M. Sloan & Sons Funeral Home, 1327 N. Wells St. Burial in Greenlawn Memorial Park Cemetery. Memorials to the Fort Wayne Firefighters Museum. www.sloanandsons funeralhome.com
ROBERT "BOB" COLPETZER, 68, of Roanoke, passed away on Saturday, Dec. 10, 2011, 2 p.m., at his residence. He was a traffic signal electrician for the City of Fort Wayne Traffic Engineering Department for 32 1/2 years, retiring in October of 2004. Survivors include his mother, Van Boren of Huntington; two daughters, Denise Colpetzer of Avondale, Ariz. and Ashley McDougall of Ohio City, Ohio; a son, Ashton Colpetzer of Georgia; a sister, Barbara Ramsey of Fort Wayne; two stepsons, Troy Harris of Frankfort, Ind. and Travis Harris of Huntington; five grandchildren; and one great-grandson. Services is 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 17, 2011, at Myers Funeral Home, Huntington Chapel, 2901 Guilford St., Huntington, with Pastor Richard Evans officiating. Visitation is from 3 to 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 16, 2011, at the funeral home. Interment in Mt. Etna Cemetery. To sign Mr. Colpetzer's online guest registry visit www.myersfuneralhomes.com
Published in Fort Wayne Newspapers on December 14, 2011
ALBERT "DUDE" R. WEINMANN, 93, of Fort Wayne, died on Thursday, June 23, 2011, at Parkview Hospital. Born in Fort Wayne, he was the only son of the Late Albert and Matilda Wein-mann. He was a member of the Bethany Lutheran Church. He was a mortician before he enlisted in the military and served his country in the Army as a medic during World War II. He was a Bronze Star and Purple Heart recipient. He worked with the City of Fort Wayne as a firefighter and later in his career as an educator/trainer. He is survived by his nieces and nephews, Barbara (Mark) Rodebeck, Sharon (Wayne) Light, Roger (Dianne) Grothaus, Mark (Sue) Grothaus, Susan (Marc) Grostefon, and Kim (Steve) Englert; and good family friends, Lillian and Wendell Sheffer. He was preceded in death by his loving wife of 59 years, Mildred L. Weinmann, in 2005. Service is 2 p.m. Tuesday, June 28, 2011, at Covington Memorial Funeral Home, 8408 Covington Road, with calling one hour prior. He will be laid to rest at Lindenwood Cemetery. Memorials are to the Marine Corps-Law Enforcement Foundation. www.covingtonmemorial.com
Published in Fort Wayne Newspapers on June 26, 2011
Donald Edward Roembke, 76, passed away Saturday, June 11, 2011 at his home in Angola. He lived most of his life in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He graduated from Central High School in 1953. After graduation he attended Culver Military School and went on to join the Marine Corp in 1954. He returned to Fort Wayne to become a Firefighter at Fire Station #10 and retired a Captain with 21 years of service. He retired as Building Superintendant of the Grand Wayne Center with 16 years of service. He is the past president of the Kekeonga Long Rifle Association. He is the founder of the French and Indian War reenactment group called the Miami Alliance. He is a member of Peace Lutheran Church in Fremont, Indiana, and was responsible for maintenance of the church. He was also a member of the Land of Lakes Lions Club and the recipient of the Melvin Jones Humanitarian award in 2011. Don was the son of Clarence F. and Frances H. Roembke. He is preceded in death by parents, infant brother William, first wife Betty J. (Staub) Roembke, and son John V. Roembke. He leaves behind his wife Anna Marie (Bender) Roembke, sister Maryilynn (Roembke) Motz, sons Louis (Cathy) Roembke, William (Patty) Roembke, Dennis Roembke all of Fort Wayne, daughter, Debra Martin of Fort Wayne, step-son, Kenneth Bender of Fort Wayne, step-daughter, Lillian (Al) Stevens of New Haven, step-daughter, Diana (Hugh) Hogan of Fort Wayne. Grandpa Don had 20 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren. We love you and will always remember your love for us and your Lord Jesus Christ. Service is 11:00 am, Saturday, June 18, 2011 at Peace Lutheran Church in Fremont, 355 E. S.R. 120 with calling one hour prior, Rev. Wayne Berkesch officiating. Calling at D.O. McComb and Sons Pine Valley Park Funeral Home, 1320 East Dupont Road Friday, June 17, 2011 11:00 am - 2:00 pm & 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm. Memorials may be made to the Peace Lutheran Church or American Cancer Society. To sign the online guest book, go to www.mccombandsons.com.
Joseph A. Doak, 81, rejoined his beloved wife of 57 years on Thursday November 11, 2010 surrounded by his loving family, in his home. Joe, born March 19, 1929, attended Precious Blood Catholic School and Central Catholic High School. In 1950, he married his high school sweetheart and love of his life, Marjorie A. Ubelhor. Joe was a devoted husband and father blessed with 7 children. He pursued an heroic career as a Fort Wayne Firefighter that spanned over 32 years. His hobby and passion was designing and building a beautiful home on Lake Gage which he proudly enjoyed with family and friends. During retirement, Joe and Marge enjoyed traveling out west. He compassionately cared for Marge as she battled MS, approaching life with enthusiasm, determination and humor. He will be dearly missed by all. Survived by his children Joseph Doak (Heather), Linda Bird (Michael), Susan Wolfe (Thomas), Patricia Barnwell (Reginald), Thomas Doak, William Doak and Jennifer Leister (Bill). Grandchildren include Brigid Funk (Jason), Joseph Doak, Erin Erkelens (Jan), Sean Doak, Bianca and Michael Bird, Meredith, Madeline and Blake Wolfe, Reggie and Preston Barnwell, Nicolaus and Corbin Leister and great grandchildren Michael and Jozlynn Bird, Ella Funk and Georgia Allen. Joseph will receive full Firefighters honors and burial. Mass of Catholic Burial is 1:30pm Saturday at St. Patrick's Catholic Church, 2120 S. Harrison St, Fr. Tom Ascheman officiating with calling 30 minutes prior. Additional calling Friday 2 to 5pm and 7 to 9pm at D.O. McComb and Sons Lakeside Park Funeral Home, 1140 Lake Avenue, with the Rosary at 8:30pm. Entombment in Catholic Cemetery, Fort Wayne, Indiana. Memorials may be made to the Parkview Hospice. To sign the online guest book, go to www.mccombandsons.com.
JERRY W. BAUERMEISTER, 65, of Auburn, died Friday, Sept. 24, 2010, at St. Joseph Hospital, Fort Wayne. He was a firefighter, arson investigator, and deputy chief for the Fort Wayne Fire Department, retiring in 1992 after 25 years of service. He then became Fire Chief of the Auburn Fire Department for 13 years, retiring on Dec. 1, 2005. He was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church, Auburn. He was also a member of F.A.S.T. (Fire Arson Specialized Team), C.I.S.M. (Critical Incident Stress Management Team), IVY Tech Fire Science Advisory Board, Indiana Fire Chief's Association, International Association of Fire Chief's, and the International Association of Fire Investigation. He was the 1987 Indiana Firefighter of the Year. One of his primary goals as a firefighter and fire chief was training and education. Born March 13, 1945, in Fort Wayne, he was the son of the late Albert and Emma (Meswarp) Bauermeister. He married Susan Adams on Nov. 7, 1969, at the Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Fort Wayne; she survives in Auburn. Also surviving are his son and daughter-in-law, Andrew Bauermeister and Lea Couture of Fort Wayne; brother and sister-in-law, Larry and Shirley Bauermeister of Fenton, Mich.; and sister and brother-in-law, Becky and Bruce Putman of Antwerp, Ohio. He was also preceded in death by his daughter, Ginne Bauermeister, in 1998.
RICHARD W. "DICK" HALE, 72, of Fort Wayne, passed away on Thursday, Sept. 30, 2010, with his family at his side after battling cancer for six months. Born in 1938, in Schenectady, N.Y, he was the son of the late Robert W. and Helen M. (Kubera) Hale. He moved to Fort Wayne at an early age. He retired as a captain from the Fort Wayne Fire Dept. in 1998 after more than 25 years of service. He was a member of the St. Joe Athletic Club, Angola Elks and was a winter resident of The Villages in Florida. He is survived by three sons, Jeffrey (Kim), Timothy (Fran) and Douglas (Karen); and three grandchildren, Charles (Audrey), Richard and Rachel. He was also preceded in death by his wife Charlene (Purner). Memorial service is from 6 to 8 p.m., Wednesday, Oct. 6, 2010, at D.O. McComb & Sons Pine Valley Park Funeral Home, 1320 E. Dupont Road, Fort Wayne. Memorial contributions to Fort Wayne Firefighters Museum.
Retiree Ken Hoefelmeyer passed away Thursday, August 26, 2010 at age 72. He served the City for 25.5 yrs. starting in May of 1974 in the Communications Division. He then transferred to Combat in April of 1986 until his retirement in Jan. of 2000. Services are pending.
DONALD R. "DON" ALLEN, 79, passed away Friday, July 2, 2010, at Parkview Hospital in Fort Wayne. Born in Markle, he was a Firefighter for the City of Fort Wayne, retiring in 1992, after 33 years of service. He was a U.S. Navy Korean War veteran and a member of American Legion Post 296, International Association of Firefighters Local 124, Aid Association to Lutherans and the National Rifle Association. Surviving are his sons, Keith R. Allen of Fort Wayne, Duane L. (Cindy) Allen of Conyers, Ga., Bruce L. Allen of Bluffton and Steven P. (Linda) Allen of Avilla; daughter, Susan L. Ramos of Fort Wayne; seven grandchildren; three great-granddaughters; and sister-in-law, Marilynn Shafter of Fort Wayne. He was preceded in death by his wife, Berniece; and sister, Joan L. Kikly. Service is 10 a.m. Wednesday at D.O. McComb & Sons Foster Park Funeral Home, 6301 Fairfield Avenue. Rev. Paul Spira officiating. Calling is from 2 to 5 and 7 to 9 p.m. today at the funeral home. Burial in Concordia Cemetery Gardens, Fort Wayne. Memorials may be made to Peace Lutheran Church. To sign the online guestbook, please visit www.mccombandsons.com
WILLIAM O. "HOPPY" HOPKINS JR., 69, of Orland, Ind., formerly of Fort Wayne, passed away on Wednesday, June 16, 2010, at his home. Born in Fort Wayne, he was the son of the late William O. and Emma Vivian Hopkins Sr. He served in the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam War. He retired as District Chief from the Fort Wayne Fire Dept., after 20 years of service in 1985. He then became Lieutenant for the 911 Communications Center and then became an inspector with Neighborhood Code Enforcement Dept., retiring in 2001. He was a member of Lake Missionary Church, Orland; Firefighters 20 Year Club; was past Commander of American Legion Post 423; was a member of Orland Chamber of Commerce; and Fort Wayne Firefighters Union. Surviving are his wife, Sue E.; daughter, Deb (Dean) Sorg of Huntertown; son, William E. (DJ) Hopkins of Fort Wayne; grandchildren, Ashley Parrish of Indianapolis, Deanna Sorg and Dean Edward "Bud" Sorg, both of Huntertown; sister, Mary Rediger of Barto, Fla.; six nieces; and three nephews. He was also preceded in death by his daughter, Dori Lynn Hopkins-Parrish; and sister, Barbara Roberts. Funeral service is 1 p.m. Tuesday, June 22, 2010, at Hockemeyer & Miller Funeral Home, 6131 St. Joe Road. Calling is from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Monday at the funeral home. Burial in Jackson Prairie Cemetery, Orland. Preferred memorials to Camp Jenee; Firefighter's Museum or Cancer Services of Northeast Indiana.
City & State of Residence:ClearLake, Fremont, IN(Formerly of Fort Wayne, IN)
Age: 94
Date of Death: Was called to his eternal glory on March 10, 2010 (Wed.)
Place of Death: Hope Hospice, Fort Myers, FL
Date of Birth: February 6, 1916Place Of Birth: Uniontown, Missouri
Parent’s Names: Martin was born February 6, 1916, in Uniontown, Missouri, one of five children born to Louis and Magdalena (Hueschen) Luepke.Martin became a child of God through the waters of Holy Baptism.
Marriage: Martin married the love of his life Marceal Pauline (Gerke) on June 22, 1940 in Fort Wayne, IN., and their marriage was blessed with two children, Janice and Donald.
Employment: Retired career firefighter and proudly served as Fire Chief of the Fort Wayne Fire Department until his retirement in 1967. He and his wife Marceal then built their dream home at Clear lake, Fremont, Indiana.He then continued his life of service as Safety Director at Dana Corporation, Fort Wayne, for 11 years.
Memberships & History:The Luepke family moved to Fort Wayne, Indiana, and Martin spent his youth and adult life in Ft.Wayne, retiring to Clear lake (Fremont). Martin graduated from ConcordiaLutheranGrade School and SouthSideHigh School.Martin enjoyed traveling, fishing, holiday cookouts at the lakefront and taking his grandchildren for tractor rides and ice cream.He toiled endlessly in the vegetable garden, became quite proficient at wine-making, and continued to serve his community as Town Board chairman, and was a member of the PeaceLutheranChurch, Fremont, Indiana, and served the church on just about every board and committee available.Martin and Marceal enjoyed their winters in Fort Myers, Florida, and Martin was able to make one last trip this past winter.
Survivors:Wife:Marceal P. Luepke –ClearLake, Fremont, IN
Daughter:Janice and Tom Nowakowski –Troy, MI
Son:Donald and Ellen Luepke –ClearLake, Fremont, IN
Four Grandchildren:Leanne, Matthew, Rebecca, and Nathan
Six Great-Grandchildren:Patrick, Miranda, Jessie, Daniel, James, and Danielle
Five Step-Grandchildren: Brian, Amy, Joseph, Kathryn, and Coleen
11 Step-Great-Grandchildren
Sister:Helen Iben –Portland, OR, and many Nieces and Nephews
Preceded In Death: Parents, Grandson:Timothy Shough, 2 Brothers , and 1 Sister
Visitation:2-6 PM Sunday March 14, 2010 at Beams Funeral Home –Fremont, Indiana
Also visitation 1 hour prior to services at Church on Monday 3/15/201010 am until 11 am) Funeral Service: 11 AM Monday March 15, 2010 PeaceLutheranChurch
Michael Suciu, 67, passed away on March 7, 2010 in a tragic accident in Orlando, Florida. He was born on January 9th, 1943. He was a loving father and retired District Fire Chief in Fort Wayne. He is survived by his wife, Sherry; youngest son, Barry; eldest son, Michael and his family; daughter-in-law, Tammy; granddaughter, Emily; grandson, Nicholas; and brother, James. Funeral service will be at 11 a.m. Saturday at D.O. McComb and Sons Lakeside Park Funeral Home, 1140 Lake Avenue with calling one hour prior. Visitation also will be held from 7 to 9 p.m. Friday at the funeral home. Entombment in Covington Memorial Gardens.
Donald K. Derrow, 72, of Punta Gorda, Fla., passed away Saturday, July 25, 2009.
He was born Feb. 27, 1937, in Fort Wayne, Ind., the son of Gerald and Esther Derrow.
After serving for three years in the U.S. Army, he became a member of the Indiana State Council of Carpenters. In 1972, he joined the Fort Wayne Fire Department, where he attained the rank of Captain. After 26 years of service as a firefighter, he retired to Punta Gorda in 1998. Don always said, "Being a firefighter is the greatest job in the world."
Don will be greatly missed by his loving partner, Barbara Porter; sons, Scott and Randall of Indianapolis, Ind.; siblings, Marian, Gerald, Robert, David and Marie; five grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Kristy; and brother, Paul.
Ralph (Fuzzy) J. Miller passed away June 11, 2009 in Mountain Home, Idaho. Born on October 21, 1917, Miller was was a Fort Wayne Firefighter for 26 years serving the department from 1950-1977. He also proudly served his country during WWII as a member of the 38th Infantry Division.
Miller is survived by his wife of 66 years, Ruth, his two children, four grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind many dear friends of which meant so very much to him.
World War II Veteran and Fort Wayne Firefighter Retiree, Norman "Pete" Rouch passed away Sunday, June 7, 2009. Born on December 31, 1923, Norman Rouch enlisted in the US ARMY in 1942. After serving his country he was hired by the Fort Wayne Fire Department on March 1, 1954. Assigned badge number 23, Rouch retired in 1980. He remained active with the Fire Department attending the annual 20-year Club celebrations and monthly retiree breakfasts. He will be missed.
RICHARD DEAN "DINK" SOWERS, 79, passed away Saturday morning, June 14, 2008. He was a Marine Corp veteran, spending a year and a half in Guam. He was a Fort Wayne fire fighter for 28 years, retiring in 1986 as Assistant Chief. He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Betty; daughters, Joyce and Sandra K. McKinnis of Eagle River, Alaska.; his granddaughter, Kim Fox; his son, Mike (Beth) Sowers; and his beloved beagle, Dutch. Service is 11 a.m. Tuesday at D.O. McComb & Sons Pine Valley Park Funeral Home, 1320 E. Dupont Road, with calling one hour prior. Calling also from 4 to 8 p.m. Monday at the funeral home. Burial in Greenlawn Memorial Park.
Retiree Robert (Bob) Dibble, badge #37, passed away on 09/25/2024 at the age of 97. Bob was the oldest in seniority, and second oldest in age of living retirees. Bob served our department from 08/21/1950 - 02/26/1971 and was also an Air Force veteran from WWII. Please keep Bob's family in your thoughts and prayers..jpg)
James "Jim" R. Miller, age 83, of Fort Wayne passed away on Thursday, September 5, 2024, at Stillwater Hospice Home. Born on October 5, 1940, he was the son of the late Lloyd and Virginia (Craighead) Miller. Jim was a graduate of Central Catholic High School, class of 1958. He proudly served as a firefighter for the city of Fort Wayne for over 26 years until retiring in 1991. Jim was also the owner of Ice Cream Cove in Angola, IN which he operated with his wife, Judith, for 9 years. When not working, Jim enjoyed renovating houses, selling them, and then moving on to the next house. Together, Jim and Judith renovated sixteen houses. Jim also loved being a grandfather to his grandchildren and cherished the time he spent with them. He was a member of St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church in Fort Wayne and of Santa Rosa de Lima Catholic Church in Adice, TX. Jim was also a member of Firefighters Local 124 Union..jpg)
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Retiree Gary Connelly, badge #133, passed on September 23.jpg)
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Michael M. Aker, 78, passed away on Wednesday, June 14, 2023, in Fort Wayne, Ind. He was born on June 27, 1944 in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Mike graduated from North Side High School in 1963, and after graduation, started his lifelong career in the construction industry. He had a diverse range of hobbies and passions, all of which exemplified his dedication to family, adventure, craftsmanship and community service. Among his cherished pastimes were spending quality time with his loved ones, creating lasting memories during vacations to Florida, and indulging in the thrill of motorcycles and cars. His commitment to public safety and helping others was evident through his role as a firefighter, embodying a deep sense of bravery. Mike proudly and fiercely served the Fort Wayne Fire Department for 36 years, from 1969 to 2005, when he retired as a Battalion Chief. His dedication, respect and commitment to the brothers and sisters of the Fort Wayne Fire Department was unmatched. Mike was a selfless, compassionate, genuine, hard-working hero who cherished his loved ones and embraced new experiences. His legacy will leave a lasting positive impact on the entire community and all who knew and loved him for generations to come. Mike and Carolyn Aker committed their lives to each other on Aug. 28, 1965 and celebrated 57 years of marriage last year. They raised four incredible children who have grown to be successful, kind and hard-working individuals, none of which would be possible without him. He loved his family and was so proud of each and every one of them. He was a hero to many, a friend to all, and would do anything for anyone. He was the most loving and caring husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He will be missed and remembered forever. Mike is survived by his wife, Carolyn; and his four children, Jill (Ray) Schmitz, Lisa (Jim) Fry, Jenny (Doug) Relue and Michael (Penny) Aker. He was a grandfather to eight grandchildren, Megan, Madison, Nick, Tyler, Taylor, Luke, Robby and Wesley. He was a proud great-grandfather to his first great-grandchild, Eva. He was preceded in death by his parents, Russel (Ruth) Aker, Alice (Arthur) Moser; and his siblings, Dave Aker and Bonnie Durnell..jpg)
Robert C. Schoenherr, 97, of Decatur formerly of Fort Wayne, passed away Wednesday afternoon, April 19, 2023. He was born to the late Paul and Mildred (Disler) Schoenherr on April 27, 1925. Robert married Patsy Marie Ellis in 1946, who is now deceased. On August 5, 1987, he married Phyllis A. (Heimann) Feasel.
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Ron Brockmyer, 85, passed away on Saturday, January 7, 2023. He was a loving husband, father and grandfather, member of the Fort Wayne Firefighter community, and world traveler. He was frequently recognized by the firefighters he served alongside as a fireman and those he helped at the credit union in Fort Wayne and as far away as Glacier National Park.
Robert "Stelly" Carl Stellhorn, age 84 passed away on Monday, December 19, 2022. He was born on May 15, 1938 in Fort Wayne, IN. 
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Alan H. Such, 83, passed away Sunday, Aug. 7, 2022, at Coventry Meadows Nursing Home in Fort Wayne. Born June 13, 1939, in Fort Wayne, he was a son of the late Howard and Ericka Such. Alan attended Concordia High School for three years and graduated from South Side High School in 1958. He was a U.S. Navy veteran and entered into service in 1958, serving on the USS Saratoga. Alan was a dedicated Fort Wayne Fireman for 35 years and spent much of his career as a District Chief, retiring in 1998. He was the Co-Founder and President of Pyro Fire Inc. for 12 years. His company designed and executed fireworks displays throughout Northern Indiana including area lakes, country clubs and the Fort Wayne annual 4th of July and 3 Rivers Festival shows. Alan was also the Co-Owner and President of AS & L Transportation since 2000 who managed voting machines for Allen County. He loved history and attending his grandchildren's sporting events. His memberships included AMVETS and the Fire Fighters Union. He is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, SuAnn D. Such of Fort Wayne; daughters, Christine (Christopher) Derheimer of Fort Wayne and Carrie (Gil) Farley of Sarasota, Fla.; brother, Ronald W. (Sue) Such of Camden, Maine; sister, Cheryl Miser of Fort Worth, Texas; and grandchildren, Adrian Farley, Bailey (Philip) Balderston, Grant Farley, and Shay Farley.%20copy.jpg)
John Quentin Gillespie, age 73, of Naval Air Station Key West, Fla. passed away on Tuesday, August 2, 2022 at Parkview Regional Medical Center. He was born April 18, 1949 in Fort Wayne, Ind. to the late Paul Q. and Helen (Wirey) Gillespie. John graduated from North Side High School in 1967 and Nashville Diesel Automotive College the following year. He joined the United States Navy in November of 1968 and proudly served our nation for four years active duty and two additional as a submarine mechanic in the U.S. Naval Reserve. John received the Vietnam Service Medal - Single Star and Navy Commendation Medal for heroic achievements, saving his shipmates lives with high risk to his own. He retired from the Fort Wayne Fire Department after 18 1/2 years of service in 1992. In his retirement to Key West, John loved fishing, boating, sailing and traveling the United States and Europe with his late wife, Debbie, until her passing in August of 2017. Surviving are his sister, Kay Gillespie of Fort Wayne, Ind.; cousins, Jenny (Tim) Hessler, Janet (Jake) Ekel, Susie Latimer, Ron McNeal, Rick (Rosie) Hines, Alan Hines, Dale (Corinne) Fulkerson, and Dan (Nancy) Fulkerson. He was predeceased by his wife, Debbie (Partin) Gillespie; parents, Paul and Helen (Wirey) Gillespie; and cousin, Barb Hines.
Jeffrey C. Englert, age 52, of Leo, IN passed away Monday, July 4, 2022 in Fort Wayne. He was born in Fort Wayne to Michael (Claudia) Englert, who survives, and the late Carol Englert. Jeff served on the Fort Wayne Fire Department for 15 years. He also worked as a bingo caller at the American Legion Post 202, Chuck's Shoe Repair, and security officer at Adams Elementary. He enjoyed IU sports, and loved spending time with family, especially his grandchildren. Jeff is survived by his wife, Kimberley Englert of Leo; children, Kyle, Kelsey, Kaley, Cara, and Sean; four grandchildren; and siblings, Jamie (Rochelle) Englert and Joseph Englert.
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JEROME A. "JERRY" MORING, 78, of Chipley, went to be with the Lord Friday, Feb. 25, 2022. Jerry had a loving, large family and many close friends. He loved to work out, play handball and darts, and snow ski. Jerry also enjoyed being outdoors on the lake boating. He retired after 25 years of service from the Fort Wayne, Ind. Fire Department. Left to treasure his memory is his son, Dean A. (Denise) Moring; grandchildren, Brooke (Andrew) Cox, Megan Moring (Ross Gottschalk), and Danielle Moring; great-grandchildren, Callen and Cooper Cox; brothers, James (Kathleen) Moring and Ron (Alyce) Moring; sister, Mary Peltier; nieces and nephews, Steven (Jennifer) Moring, Connie (Eric) Voorheis, Paul Moring, Michael (Chris) Moring, Paige Peltier (Tim) Fenton, Nicole Peltier, Burke Peltier, Chris Pittman, Lisa (Joe) Anderson, Scott (Alexis) Moring, Michelle (Andy) Stacher, Heath Stanfield, Todd May, Ericha (Ricky) Laymon, Shana (Burt) Rumph, and Bria (Jordan) Willenborg. He also leaves behind several cousins and great-nieces and -nephews to honor his memory. Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Everett E. Moring and Alice M. Underwood (Moring) Hageman; grandparents, Harry and Blanche Underwood; sisters, Marjorie Moring, Barbara Hogeland and Judith Stanfield; and niece, Ronna Wade Cox..jpg)
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Donald Ross Cleveland, 89 passed away from complications of pneumonia on January 11 at Eisenhower Medical Center in Rancho Mirage, CA. He was born September 3, 1932 in Fort Wayne, Indiana and was preceded in death this past summer by his wife of 65 years, Margaret Cleveland. He is survived by his son David Cleveland of Palm Springs, CA and his daughter Dawn Neas of Mesa, AZ. A graduate of Concordia Lutheran High School, he was Marine Corp veteran of the Korean War where he was wounded in battle and received the Purple Heart. Later he spent 27 years as a firefighter for the City of Fort Wayne, IN where he became a captain and was also the city’s first Director of its Emergency Medical Service. He moved with his wife to California in 2014 to be closer to their children. He was a member of Peace Lutheran Church, Palm Desert. .jpg)
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Gary Brown, 70, of Fort Wayne passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, February 20, 2021. He was born on September 5, 1950 in Marion, Indiana, son of the late James and Betty (Langer) Brown. He worked for the Fort Wayne Fire Department for 24 years before retiring. He served in the Indiana Air National Guard for 20 years. In 1983, he was a founding member of the local Make-A-Wish Foundation which later became Make-A-Wish Ohio, Kentucky, Indiana. Surviving family include his wife, Terra Brown; children, Brett Brown, Michael (Kirsten) Brown, and Krista VanArman; grandchildren, Haley, Tristen, Bailey, Chase, Aviana; brother, Ronald (Marsha) Brown and Richard (Bobbi) Brown; and sister, Gloria Merrill; and his beloved pet, Tanner..jpg)
NORMAN ALLEN HOKE, 73, of Largo, Fla., passed away on Sunday, Jan. 10, 2021. He was born on Jan. 26, 1947, in Fort Wayne. Norm retired after 30 years from the Fort Wayne Fire Department with the rank of District Chief. He also worked for TSA at St. Pete-Clearwater airport, and owned three businesses. He was a member of V.F.W 10094, Legion 119, and Local 124 IAFF. He enjoyed hockey, football, baseball, and poker. Norm is survived by daughter, Lisa Ann (nee Hoke) (husband, Arthur) Squires of Chicago, Ill.; four grandchildren, and eight great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his son, Scott, in 2004..jpg)
C. GEORGE STILWELL, 80, of Churubusco, passed away on Sunday, Dec. 6, 2020, at his home. He work-ed as Chief of the Fire Shop for the Fort Wayne Fire Department, retiring after 32 years of service. Surviving include his wife of 54 years, Sally Stilwell; children, Judi (Tom) Leon, Jerry Teague, Randy (Karin Bouza) Stilwell, Sally (Jeff Crabill) King, and Jeff (Eva) Stilwell; sister-in-law, June Stilwell; eight grandchildren, Sarah (Josh) Keck, Andy Leon, Nicole (Adam) Kinzel, Matt (Megan) Stilwell, Holli (Brandon) Hattery, Kristin King, David Stilwell, and Dylan Stilwell; and seven great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; and a brother, Gregory Stilwell..jpg)
GILBERT ALLAN HEIM, "GIL", 83, a life-long resident of Fort Wayne, Ind., passed away Monday Dec. 7, 2020, at Parkview Hospice Care. He died of complications due to Alzheim -er's. Gil retired from the Fort Wayne Fire Department in 1987 after serving 21 years. He had many fond memories of his firefighting career. As a young man he worked for Deluxe Marine in sales where he developed the interest of boats and his gift as a salesman. One of his last jobs was at Mill Supplies where his talents were recognized and appreciated. He was a prolific reader of history, old cars and boats. Most agree Gil was witty, well-read, generous and loving to his family and friends. Gil often voiced his appreciation of past travel with his wife, Joan, to many places he remembered fondly. He and Joan were members of Unity Christ Church where he often "volunteered" by eating the donuts after service. He was a devoted husband to both Joyce (Parent) Heim, deceased, and Joan (Lambert) Heim, his present wife. He was the loving father of Randy Heim, Rhonda (Heim) Hinsey, and his stepchildren, Tamara Tharp, Michael Tharp and Tara Mitchell. He was a devoted grandparent "G-Pa" to Dane Heim, Evan Heim, Clare Heim, Austin Holtzberg, Chase Tharp, Taylor Tharp, and Delaney Mitchell. He was also the "Great G-Pa" to Huxton Heim. He was preceded in death by his parents, Lela and August Heim; his sister, Lois Jean Heim (Swaim;) and his brother, Robert Edwin Heim. He will be very missed by his wife, children and friends..jpg)
JOHN R. LONERGAN, 94, passed away on Saturday, July 25, 2020, at Grey Stone Health and Rehabilitation Center, Fort Wayne. Born in Fort Wayne, he was the son of the late Charles and Faye (Stephson) Lonergan. He served his country in the U.S. Navy during World War II and was a member of American Legion Post 296. He retired in 1983 from the Fort Wayne Fire Department - Station 1 after 33 years. He is survived by his daughters, Cynthia Lonergan, Cheryl (Paul) Conrad, Susan (Bill) Ahlersmeyer, and Nancy (Mark) Hevel; five grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren. He was also preceded in death by his wife of 55 years, Maxin,e in 2003; and brother, William Lonergan. Funeral service is 1 p.m. Thursday at Harper's Community Funeral Home, 740 St. Rd. 930 E., New Haven, with visitation two hours prior. Pastor Jim Platner officiating. Masks required. Burial in Lindenwood Cemetery, Fort Wayne, with military honors. Preferred memorials are to the Fort Wayne Firefighters Museum..jpg)
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Jerome "Jerry" L. Smith, 81, of Fort Wayne , Indiana, died on Tuesday, Jan. 28, 2020, at Lincolnshire Place, Fort Wayne.Jerry was born on Sept. 1, 1938, in Fort Wayne. He was the son of the late Robert C. and Vivian D. Smith.Jerry was a member of Saint Joseph Catholic Church, and served our country in the U.S. Navy.He was a Fort Wayne firefighter and the Superintendent of the Signal Dept. for the City of Fort Wayne, retiring in 1988.He enjoyed his retirement at Lake Pleasant, Manapogo Park, for many years.Jerry is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Marilyn; sons, David (Claudia) Smith, of Fremont, Indiana, Brian (Denise) Smith, of Monroeville, Indiana, and Dan (Rose) Smith, of New Haven, Indiana; daughters, Denise Smith, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, and Dawn Albright, of Monroeville, Indiana; nine grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.Jerry was preceded in death by his brother, Michael C. Smith..jpg)
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WILLIAM "BILL" F. LANGMEYER, 91, of Fort Wayne, passed away on Saturday, Oct. 5, 2019, at Visiting Nurse Hospice Home in Fort Wayne. Mr. Lang-meyer was born March 12, 1928, in Fort Wayne, a son of Franklin and Stephanie (Kortokrax) Langmeyer. He graduated from Elmhurst High School in 1946. On March 26, 1949, he married Ruth Holocher at Emmaus Lutheran Church in Fort Wayne. Bill served as a Fort Wayne Firefighter for 21 years. During his time as a firefighter, he also helped with the founding of Firefighter's Credit Union. Bill also was employed at Nowak Williams Supply Company in Fort Wayne. He loved tending to his garden and keeping a well-manicured lawn. He enjoyed fishing, woodworking, bird watching and bird feeding. He was very proud of his grandchildren and loved following all of their achievements and events. Surviving are his children, Leslie Ryan Langmeyer, Vicki Arthur, and Lisa (Craig) Masters; grandchildren, Uriah Langmeyer, Christopher (Nicole) Langmeyer, Susannah Arthur, Philip (Hannah) Arthur, Hope Arthur, Clara Masters, and Chase (Carrie Luke) Masters; four great-grandchildren; and a sister, Patricia Stiffler. He was preceded in death by his parents; spouse; and five other siblings..jpg)
Virgil L. Smith, 83, of Fremont, Indiana, and formerly of Fort Wayne, Indiana, passed away at his home on Friday, Oct. 4, 2019. He was born on May 28, 1936, in Fort Wayne, Indiana, to Walter S. and Roxy C. (Paul) Smith. He graduated from Central High School, Fort Wayne, in 1954. Virgil was a Fort Wayne firefighter for 21 years, retiring in 1981. He had also worked as a guard at Zollinger Pistons for 12 years and at Slater Steel for six years before retiring. Virgil joined the Indiana Freemasonry in 1978. He was a 32nd degree Mason and past master of Maumee Masonic Lodge 725. He is currently a member of Waynedale Masonic Lodge 739. He was a member of the Royal Order of Jesters; Pokagon Shrine Club; and the Scottish Rite, Valley of Fort Wayne. Virgil enjoyed fishing, hunting and bowling. Surviving is his wife, whom he married on March 28, 1980, Ruth A. Tschannen Smith, of Fremont, Indiana; son, Kirk Smith, of Ohio; four stepsons, Rick Rupel, of Indiana, Kenneth Rupel, of Indiana, Thomas (Debra) Van Aman, of Indiana, and Pat Van Aman, of Michigan; three stepdaughters, Sharon (Dave) Pressler, of Indiana, Christine (Robert) Watson, of Illinois, and Rebecca (Randy Robinson) Van Aman, of Illinois; brother, Gene (Paulette) Smith, of Indiana; and sister, Judy (Rick) Kneisley, of California. Also surviving are 15 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Chris Erli; brother, Ricky Paul Smith, and sisters, Norma Koch and Carol Ramsey.
LARRY BLAIR, 78, loving husband and father passed away on Thursday, Sept. 12, 2019, at home surrounded by his family. Born March 2, 1941, in Eaton, Ind., he was the son of the late William and Mardale Blair. Larry attended North Side High School. He served on the Fort Wayne Fire Department for 30 years and received several awards including the 2010 Retiree of the year award for unselfishly volunteering his time and talents to the preservation of the Fire Department History. He was a member of Kekionga Long Rifle Club, IAFF, HOG, and was on the board of the Fire Fighters Museum. He enjoyed spending time with his wife, Barbra, and his family, boating, hunting, riding motorcycles with his friends, driving his Corvette, watching NASCAR, playing poker with his buddies, building guns, refurbishing cars and fire engines, and woodworking hobbies. He was dedicated to all restorations needed at the Firefighters Museum during his years of retirement. Larry is survived by his sister, Connie (Val) Ogden; brother, Tony Blair; daughters, Laura Hesson, Lisa Blair and Michelle Roebel; sons, Michael Peconge and Jeffery (Traci) Peconge; grandchildren, Brandon Thacker, Samantha (Paul) Pulliam, Rachael (Rob) Veenstra, Kyle Burke, Stephen Peconge, Kori Peconge, Ryon Peconge, Kaitlin Roebel, Zachary Roebel, and Austin Roebel; and great-grandchild, Raydyn Peconge. He was preceded in death by wife, Barbra Blair; father, William Blair; mother, Mardale Blair; sister, Jennith Blair; and granddaughter, Addison Ice.
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JEFFREY MARK MEYER, 59, of Fort Wayne, lost his final battle with cancer on Monday, April 22, 2019, at home surrounded by his loving family and friends. "He was a devoted husband, father, brother, uncle and friend." Born Jan. 12, 1960, in Bluffton, he was the son of the late Paul and Sarah Jane Meyer, and and raised in Ossian. Jeffrey is survived by his wife of 34 years, Danette; sons, Miles A. Meyer and Leighton J. Meyer, both of Fort Wayne; sisters, Jackie (Robert) Ely of Montgomery, Ala., and Debra Nutter of Fort Wayne; brother, Doug Meyer of Fort Collins, Colo.; aunt, Ida Aschliman of Bluffton, Ind.; five nieces and nephews, and several cousins. .jpg)
Charles E. Graf Jr., 71, of Fort Wayne died March 31, 2019,in Fort Wayne, IN. Charles was born to the late Charles E. (Margaret “Peg”) Graf Sr. on August 26, 1947 in Fort Wayne. He Graduated Central Catholic High School in 1966 and went on to work for the Fort Wayne Fire Department for 32 years as a Captain. He loved his cigars and Notre Dame Football and Basketball. Charles is survived by Two Daughters, Barbara Graf and Michelle Graf and Son, Jason Graf. Charles was preceded in death by his wife of 42 years Rebecca Graf..jpg)
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DeWAYNE COMPTON, 79, died Sunday, Feb. 10, 2019. Born Feb. 2, 1940, in Fort Wayne, he was a son of Elmer L. and Mabel D. (Linde man) Compton. He married Sandra L. Grothaus on Oct. 18, 1958; she preceded him in death on Dec. 4, 2010. DeWayne was a retired .jpg)
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ROBERT "BOB" SCHWEPPE, 85, passed away Saturday, July 15, 2017. Born in Fort Wayne, Bob was the son of the late Carl and Clara Sch weppe. He graduated from Elmhurst High School. He served our country in the U.S. Army as a paratrooper in the 187th Infantry Regiment known as the Rakkasan. Bob retired from the Fort Wayne Fire Department in 1987 after 30 years of service. Following his retirement from the Fire Department, Bob became an officer for the Allen County Sheriffs Department for five years. He was a member of Waynedale Lodge No. 739, F.&A.M. Mizpah Shriner, and Scottish Rite. Bob loved being active. He participated in many marathons through the years. He also enjoyed hiking, walking, reading, history, and gardening. Surviving are his daughter, Karen (Kurt) Haag of Fort Wayne; son, Chris (Andrea) Schweppe of Fort Wayne; grandson, Trace Schweppe; step-grandchildren, Austin Douglas, Chad (Jennifer) Haag, Brad Haag, and Allison (Dustin) Wolf; and step-great-grandchildren, Braxton, Norah, Jeffrey, and Jacob. Bob was preceded in death by his siblings, Carl Schweppe, Mary Dautz, Helen Jahn, and Dorothy Dunn.
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EDWIN EARL BICKNESE, 83, passed away Saturday, March 18, 2017. He was a lifelong resi dent of Fort Wayne, the son of the late Earl and Thelma Bicknese. Ed attended South Side High School, graduating in 1952. He served the Fort Wayne community as a firefighter for 26 years, retiring in 1986. He enjoyed going to antique shows, and worked at a local antique shop after his retirement. Ed enjoyed spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren, and also spending time at Leo Caf‚ with his friends. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Nancy Bicknese; children, Lori Losher, and Lisa Bicknese; grandchildren, Timothy (Tiffany) Losher, Daniel Losher, Lindsay Losher, Zachary (Jessica) Bicknese, Brian (Jessica Richey) Bicknese; great-grandchildren, Madelyn Losher, Lola Bicknese, London Bicknese; and his cats, Katie, and Butch. He was preceded in death by his son, Christian Bicknese. 
GLEN DALE BROWER, 87, of Heritage Pointe, Warren, Ind., formerly of Fort Wayne, Ind., passed away Monday, Sept. 5, 2016 at 6:45 p.m. at Lutheran Hospital in Fort Wayne.Born on Sunday, Dec. 2, 1928 in Whitley County, Ind., he was a son of the late Roy Brower and Cora (Chesterman) Brower. He married Marilyn Tanner on July 24, 1954 in Fort Wayne; she passed away on Sept. 17, 2013. Glen was a 
STEPHEN M. "STEVE" DEARING, 72, passed away peacefully Tuesday, Aug. 16, 2016, at Visiting Nurse in Fort Wayne. Born in Fort Wayne, Ind., Steve was the son of the late Ralph and Patricia Dearing. Stephen worked for the Fort Wayne City, Fire and Dispatch for 20 years before moving on to his second career. He founded D&D Associates which he owned and operated for over 20 years before retiring in 2013. Steve was a NASCAR fan and loved playing cards with his cousin John every week. He looked forward to his occasional trips to Hoosier Park and enjoyed his backyard garden every summer. Surviving are his wife, Christine "Tina" Dearing of Fort Wayne; daughter, Kris Dearing of Fort Wayne; step-daughter, Jen (Andrew) McKeever of Fort Wayne; and his best pet friend Donnie Dearing. Stephen was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Ronald Dearing. Memorial Service is 11 a.m., Monday, Aug. 22, 2016, at D.O. McComb & Sons Covington Knolls Funeral Home, 8325 Covington Road, with calling one hour prior. Deacon Rob Seewald officiating. Calling also from 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 21, 2016 at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to the Visiting Nurse Hospice.
James E. Waldrop, 84, of Columbia City, passed away at 1:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 21, 2016 at his residence. Born Sept 22, 1931 in Decatur, he was the son of Wayne D. & Ruth F. (Carrier) Waldrop. He attended Fort Wayne schools and graduated from Elmhurst High School wit the class of 1950. Fames worked for the Fort Wayne Fire Department for 23 years until his retirement in 1983.
Retiree Veronique Brown, Badge 270, passed today 7-24-15 at the age of 65. Veronique served our Dept. as a Pvt. for 25 years from 8-6-1972 until 8-6-1997 and was the child of deceased Retiree Roland Brown and Nephew of Retiree Julian Franke.
RALEIGH E. MYERS, 84, of Fort Wayne, died on Wednesday, May 27, 2015, at Visiting Nurse Hospice Home. Born Dec. 31, 1930, in Fort Wayne, he was the son of the late John E. Myers and Madge Miller Myers. He was a fire fighter for the Fort Wayne Fire Dept. He was a member of Most Precious Blood Catholic Church and Fort Wayne Turners, and was on the 1950 Central Catholic State Champion football team. Surviving are his wife, Georgean (Borkenstein) Myers of Fort Wayne; children, Janet (James) Niswonger, John (Mary) Myers, Jean (Larry) Lyons, Jodie (William) Jones, James Myers, Joe (Laura) Myers, and Joyce (Scott Lauer) Moss, all of Fort Wayne; 16 grandchildren; and 17 great-grandchildren.
MARC D. WASHINGTON SR., 64, passed Wednesday, May 20, 2015. Born July 10, 1950, in Richmond, Ind., he was a son of Ford and Gladys Washington. By age 5, his parents, Donald and Gladys Wilson relocated the family to Fort Wayne. Marc was a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and a retiree of the City of Fort Wayne having served on the city fire and street departments. He was also a lifelong handyman. Surviving are his children, Marc Jr. and Tanisha; son-in-law, Juan (Adrianne) Gorman; parents, Donald and Gladys Wilson and Barbara Washington; twin, Marsha (Ephraim) Smiley; and other siblings, Donald Jr., Paul (Mary Ann) Wilson Sr., Kim Basnight, Rodney (Cindy), Cheryl, Jeff (Sharon) Riley, and Teresa Washington; longtime companion, Ms. Jerry Dean McKinny; and a host of other family and friends. He was preceded in death by his father, Ford; and daughter, Tahirih Washington-Gorman.
AUSTIN J. GARMAN, 91, passed away Sunday, May 17, 2015, at Lutheran Hospital, Fort Wayne. Born in Cedarville, Austin was a firefighter with the City of Fort Wayne for 30 years, retiring in 1984. He was a World War II U.S. Army veteran and an avid golfer. Surviving are his sons, Eric (Janice) Garman and Gary Garman of Fort Wayne and Gregg (Carol) Garman of Grabill; and grandsons, Brandon and Shawn Garman, both of Fort Wayne. He was preceded in death by wife, Marjorie Jane Garman; parents, Raymond and Frieda (Deventer) Garman; and brother, Weldon Garman. Service is 2 p.m. Friday, May 22, 2015, at D.O. McComb & Sons Pine Valley Park Funeral Home, 1320 East Dupont Road, with calling one hour prior. Calling also from 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday, May 21, 2015, at the funeral home. Burial in Leo Memorial Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project.
DICK E. MESSER, 73, passed away Saturday, May 2, 2015. Born in Fort Wayne, Dick served in the Indiana Air National Guard 122nd Tactical Fighter Group from 1963 to 1969 as a jet engine mechanic and staff sergeant. He was a firefighter with the Fort Wayne Fire Dept. from 1968 to 1988 and received honors and commen-dations as Captain. He was an active member of American Legion Post 409, in Leo, serving in various positions. Dick served as president, vice president, and other board positions with the Fire Police City County Federal Credit Union. He was an avid NASCAR fan who enjoyed cars, animals and fishing. Dick loved his daughters and hanging out at the legion. Surviving are his daughters, Janis (Tim) Badgley of Fort Wayne and Susan (Christopher) Michaels of Kendallville; six grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his brother, James Messer. 
Retiree Donald Steup (pronounced Stoip) passed September 8, 2014 at the age of 85. Don served the Dept. for 20.5 years from 12-14-1959 until 7-4-1980. He was a third generation Firefighter following his Grandfather and Father. He also had a Brother and two Uncles that served on our Dept. His Father Raymond died in the" Line of Duty" in 1948. Don spent his retirement in Bedford Indiana. 
ROBERT E. BAALS, 91, of Fort Wayne, passed away on Thursday, June 20, 2013. Born May 29, 1922, in Fort Wayne, he was a son of the late Clinton J. and Edna J. Baals. A member of Trinity English Lutheran Church, a 33rd 
JAMES H. BELOT, 86, passed away on Wednesday, May 22, 2013, at Lutheran Hospital, Fort Wayne. Born in Fort Wayne, James worked as a firefighter with the City of Fort Wayne, retiring in 1978. He was a Navy veteran serving in World War II, and a member of St. Henry's Catholic Church. He was and avid card player especially with his family on Sunday afternoons. He enjoyed reading, golfing, fishing, and hunting. Surviving are his wife, Rita Belot of Fort Wayne; sons, James H. (Mary Jane) Belot III of Fort Wayne and Jeffrey M. Belot of Indianapolis; daughter, Beth (Stanley) Motyka of Ossian; and grandsons, Thomas Belot and Ben Motyka. He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Mae Belot; and brother, Robert Belot. Mass of Christian Burial is 11 a.m. Saturday, May 25, 2013, at St. Henry Catholic Church, 2929 E. Paulding Road, with calling one hour prior. Calling also from 2 to 5 and 7 to 9 p.m. Friday, May 24, 2013, at D.O. McComb & Sons Foster Park Funeral Home, 6301 Fairfield Ave. Burial in Catholic Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Masses or St. Henry's Catholic Church. To sign the online guestbook, please visit 
ROBERT E. OMAN, 78, died on Sunday, March 24, 2013. Born Jan. 1, 1935, in Fort Wayne, he was a son of the late James and Dorothy (Golmer) Oman. He graduated from South Side High School, entered the United States Marine Corps, and honorably served his country for four years during the Korean War. Bob was a firefighter for the City of Fort Wayne Fire Department for 25 years. Bob lived to play golf. He was a member of the Firefighters Local 124, the Fort Wayne Firefighters 20 Year Club and Gethsemane Lutheran Church. Survivors include his wife, Susan Oman of Fort Wayne; son, Michael Oman of Fort Wayne; daughter, Lynette Paliganoff of Fort Wayne; stepdaughter, Kim Cameron of Bandera, Texas; three grandchildren, Adam Myer, Megan Paliganoff and Ethan Oman; three stepgrandchildren, Chandler Glover, Madison Salway and Conner Cameron; and brothers, Don (Bev) Oman of Fort Wayne and Alan (Trish) Oman of Indianapolis. He was also preceded in death by his brother, James Oman. Memorial service is 1 p.m. Saturday, March 30, 2013, at Gethsemane Lutheran Church, 1505 Bethany Lane, Fort Wayne, with visitation one hour before the service. Memorials to Gethsemane Lutheran Church or The Fort Wayne Rescue Mission. Send condolences at http://www.northern indianafuneralcare.com/ or find us on Facebook.com Arrangements by Northern Indiana Funeral Care of Fort Wayne. 
RICHARD M. PATTEE, 77, passed away on Friday, Feb. 1, 2013, in Fort Wayne. Born in Fort Wayne, he work ed as a 
ROBERT WILLIAM "BOB" FRANKE, 94, of Fort Wayne, passed away on Friday, Jan. 25, 2013, at Visiting Nurse & Hospice Home, Fort Wayne. Born Jan. 18, 1919, at the family homestead near Hoagland and Franke Roads in Hoagland, Ind., he was the son of the late Herman and Iva Franke. Bob was a long time member of Bethlehem Lutheran Church, Fort Wayne. He served in 
HARRY R. NEUHAUS, 73, of Lake Charles, Angola, formerly of Fort Wayne, died Sunday, June 17, 2012. He was a 20 year fireman for the city of Fort Wayne, and after retirement, he became a pilot for Fort Wayne Air Service for five years. He was a United States Air Force veteran. Surviving are his wife, Kathleen Neuhaus of Angola; son, Grant R. Neuhaus of Fort Wayne; daughter, Christine Anne and Fred Bokel of Fort Wayne; six grandchildren, Stefanie and Randy Brooks, Elizabeth Bokel, Alexander Bokel, Alexis and Joe Ramey, Savanna Neuhaus, Grant R. Neuhaus, II; mother, Lucille Neuhaus of Fort Wayne; sister, Suzann Hans of Fort Wayne; and two brothers, Thomas and Richard Neuhaus of Fort Wayne. He was preceded in death by his father, Earl Neuhaus. Funeral Service is 1 p.m. Wednesday June 20, 2012 at Beams Funeral Home, Fremont, Ind. , with visitation two hours prior. Memorials to Riley Children's Hospital, Indianapolis. Arrangements by Beams Funeral Home of Fremont, Ind., 260/495-2915. Condolences may be sent online to www.beamsfuneralhome.com 
R. RICHARD TAYLOR JR. "DICK", 72, of Fort Wayne passed away Thursday, June 7, at Parkview Regional Medical Center. He was retired from the Fort Wayne Fire Department, and had worked at Zollners. He was a member of The Fort Wayne Firefighters Local 124, the Firefighters 20 Year Club, the Fort Wayne Firefighters Museum, the St. Joe A.C., the Allen County Bass Masters, the senior bass circuit, and one of the founders of the firefighter scuba team. Surviving are his wife, Virginia Taylor of Fort Wayne; son, Richard (Susan) Taylor of Fort Wayne; son, Mark (Andrea) Taylor of Colorado; daughter, Teri Taylor of Florida; and four grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; and sisters Joan and Norma. Service is 10:30 a.m., Monday, June 11, 2012, at D.O. McComb & Sons Lakeside Park Funeral Home, 1140 Lake Avenue with visitation one hour prior. Visitation also from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m., Sunday, June 10, 2012, at the funeral home. Burial in Greenlawn Memorial Park. Memorials may be made to the Firefighters Museum or the American Diabetes Association. To sign the online guest book, go to www.mccombandsons.com. 
ALLEN L. PLASTERER, 79, of New Haven, died on Friday, May 18, 2012, 7:15 p.m., at Golden Years Homestead where he had been a resident since 2009. Born Feb. 13, 1933, in Fort Wayne, he was a son of Richard W. and Myrtle (Lee) Plasterer. His formative years were spent in Fort Wayne where he graduated from Central High School. On Feb. 1, 1952, he enlisted in the United States Air Force, serving during the Korean War. He was honorably discharged on Jan. 31, 1956. He was employed for 21 years with the Fort Wayne Fire Department, retiring in 1979. He also delivered flowers for Indiana Flower Supply until 1988. On Jan. 29, 1983, he married Jacqueline L. Ramp. He was a member of Fort Wayne Firefighters Local 124. Surviving relatives include his wife, Jackie; three children, Dawn (Robert) Fiore and Rex (Juanita) Plasterer, both of Fort Wayne and Cheryl Walker of Huntington; two stepchildren, Laurie (Mark) Anderson of New Haven and Garrick (Jennifer) Cook of Fort Wayne; 13 grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a brother, Robert Plasterer; and two sisters, Glenna Army and Marylin Glover. Funeral service is 11 a.m. Thursday at Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City. Visitation is from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home. Burial in Lakeview Cemetery, Larwill. Preferred memorials to Firefighters Museum. Condolences may be sent to www.smithandsons funeralhome.com 
Glen R. "Pudge" Lantz , 77, passed away Wednesday, May 9, 2012. Surviving are his son, Robert Lantz, daughter, Lisa (William) Blanton, grandchildren, Scott Lantz, Joshua Dube, John Flickinger, David Lantz, Billy, Austin and Kayla Blanton, 4 great grandchildren, brothers, Donald (Mary) Lantz and Ned (Judy) Lantz all of Fort Wayne and sister, Carolyn Krapesh of Clinton, IN. Glen was preceded in death by his wife of 56 years Carol Lantz, son, William Lantz, parents, 1 brother & 1 sister.
BENJAMIN TAYLOR HARVILL, JR, 84, passed away Saturday, March 10, 2012 at Parkview Hospital in Fort Wayne. Born in Fort Wayne, he was a firefighter with the Fort Wayne City Fire Department for 23 years, retiring in 1974. He also worked as a security guard for Zollner Corp for 10 years after his retirement from the fire department. He was a member of First Wayne Street United Methodist Church, Maumee Masonic Lodge 275 F.& A.M., Scottish Rite Valley of Fort Wayne, Mizpah Shrine, Orchard Gallery. He was a 
ROBERT E. WOLFORD, 77, of Geneva, Ind., passed away on Wednesday, Jan. 25, 2012. Born in Fort Wayne, he was an 
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JOSEPH W. BONIFAS, 80, of Fort Wayne, died Sunday, Dec. 25, 2011, at his home. Born April 2, 1931, in Fort Wayne, he was the son of the late Charles D. and Georgia Grace (Gaunt) Bonifas. On April 14, 1951, he married Delorese Gilbert at Trinity United Methodist Church. He was a 
ROBERT "BOB" COLPETZER, 68, of Roanoke, passed away on Saturday, Dec. 10, 2011, 2 p.m., at his residence. He was a traffic signal electrician for the City of Fort Wayne Traffic Engineering Department for 32 1/2 years, retiring in October of 2004. Survivors include his mother, Van Boren of Huntington; two daughters, Denise Colpetzer of Avondale, Ariz. and Ashley McDougall of Ohio City, Ohio; a son, Ashton Colpetzer of Georgia; a sister, Barbara Ramsey of Fort Wayne; two stepsons, Troy Harris of Frankfort, Ind. and Travis Harris of Huntington; five grandchildren; and one great-grandson. Services is 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 17, 2011, at Myers Funeral Home, Huntington Chapel, 2901 Guilford St., Huntington, with Pastor Richard Evans officiating. Visitation is from 3 to 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 16, 2011, at the funeral home. Interment in Mt. Etna Cemetery. To sign Mr. Colpetzer's online guest registry visit 
ALBERT "DUDE" R. WEINMANN, 93, of Fort Wayne, died on Thursday, June 23, 2011, at Parkview Hospital. Born in Fort Wayne, he was the only son of the Late Albert and Matilda Wein-mann. He was a member of the Bethany Lutheran Church. He was a mortician before he enlisted in the military and served his country in the Army as a medic during 
Donald Edward Roembke, 76, passed away Saturday, June 11, 2011 at his home in Angola. He lived most of his life in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He graduated from Central High School in 1953. After graduation he attended Culver Military School and went on to join the Marine Corp in 1954. He returned to Fort Wayne to become a Firefighter at Fire Station #10 and retired a Captain with 21 years of service. He retired as Building Superintendant of the Grand Wayne Center with 16 years of service. He is the past president of the Kekeonga Long Rifle Association. He is the founder of the French and Indian War reenactment group called the Miami Alliance. He is a member of Peace Lutheran Church in Fremont, Indiana, and was responsible for maintenance of the church. He was also a member of the Land of Lakes Lions Club and the recipient of the Melvin Jones Humanitarian award in 2011. Don was the son of Clarence F. and Frances H. Roembke. He is preceded in death by parents, infant brother William, first wife Betty J. (Staub) Roembke, and son John V. Roembke. He leaves behind his wife Anna Marie (Bender) Roembke, sister Maryilynn (Roembke) Motz, sons Louis (Cathy) Roembke, William (Patty) Roembke, Dennis Roembke all of Fort Wayne, daughter, Debra Martin of Fort Wayne, step-son, Kenneth Bender of Fort Wayne, step-daughter, Lillian (Al) Stevens of New Haven, step-daughter, Diana (Hugh) Hogan of Fort Wayne. Grandpa Don had 20 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren. We love you and will always remember your love for us and your Lord Jesus Christ. Service is 11:00 am, Saturday, June 18, 2011 at Peace Lutheran Church in Fremont, 355 E. S.R. 120 with calling one hour prior, Rev. Wayne Berkesch officiating. Calling at D.O. McComb and Sons Pine Valley Park Funeral Home, 1320 East Dupont Road Friday, June 17, 2011 11:00 am - 2:00 pm & 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm. Memorials may be made to the Peace Lutheran Church or American Cancer Society. To sign the online guest book, go to 
