Diane Clemons, 56, of Michigan City, Ind., passed away peacefully at 7:40 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 27, 2020, at VNA Hospice Center, Valparaiso, Ind.

She was born Feb. 1, 1964, in Michigan City, Ind., to Donald and Betty (Vanderpool) Glossinger.

Diane enjoyed listening to music, especially the Bee Gees. She loved spending time with family, especially her grandchildren. Her grandchildren and children were her life.

Surviving are her two children, Jennifer (Mike) Schmidt of Michigan City and Sue (Tommy Miller) Wingard of South Bend, Ind.; one sister, Marianne Glossinger of Knox, Ind.; one brother, Donald (Caryn) Glossinger of Michigan City; close nieces, Leslie (Lonnie) and Penny (Lester) Lewis, both of Michigan City; 10 grandchildren, Joshua, Olivia, Leland, Kallie, Jocelyn, Lexi, Aubree, Jaxon, Jayden, and RayLynn; three nieces, Tammy, Margaret and Elizabeth West; one nephew, Micah Glossinger; great-nephew, Sonny Smith; and great-niece, Lyla.

Preceding her in death were her parents; one son, Justin Wingard; one sister, Karen West; and one nephew, Donald Glossinger.

Cremation will take place. A celebration of her life will be held at a later date. Lakeview Funeral Home and Crematory, La Porte, is handling arrangements.

Messages of condolence may be posted below on WNLP as well as at www.LakeviewFHC.com.

Douglas “Doug” Howard Marvel, 73, passed away Friday, Jan. 1, 2021, at Majestic Care of Jefferson Point in Fort Wayne, Ind.

He was born July 4, 1947, in La Porte to Howard and Betty Marvel.

Doug was a foreman at Bethlehem Steel.  He was an outdoorsman. Doug loved to hunt and scuba dive.

Surviving are his daughter, Wendy Marvel of La Porte, and grandson, Seth Marvel.

He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Brian Marvel; brother, Ralph Marvel; and his dog, Buddy.

Cremation has taken place with Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center, La Porte.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the family c/o Wendy Marvel, 2900 Monroe St., La Porte, Ind. 46350.

Messages of condolence may be posted below on WNLP as well as at www.cutlercares.com.

Glen “Butch” Roy Cable, 77, of La Porte, Ind., passed away Sunday, Jan. 3, 2021, at his home.

He was born March 10, 1943, in La Porte to Glen “Bud” and Ethel (Short) Cable.

Butch was a semi mechanic for many years. He was active in the Rolling Prairie Conservation Club and the Rolling Prairie Business and Community Association. He was a quiet, kind man with a terrific, offbeat sense of humor. He enjoyed spending time in his garden, walking, watching sports, mushroom hunting, making salsa, and taking his Sunday rides. Butch also created special memories baking Christmas cookies with his daughters. Most importantly, Butch enjoyed spending time with his family and good friends.

On Oct. 15, 1983, at Rolling Prairie Christian Church, he married Barbara Deutscher, who survives.

Also surviving are his children, Pamela (Joseph) Pask of La Porte, Lori (Bill Stayback) Long of La Porte, Michael Benjamin of New York City, NY, and Angela Benjamin of La Porte; 4 grandchildren, Jason Bennitt, Nicole Sutter, Jared (Sarah Reese) Long and Joseph Pask, Jr.; 2 great-grandchildren, Fae and Maggie Sutter; sisters, Susan Cable of La Porte and Ellen (Dennis) Christensen of Fish Lake, Ind.; 2 nephews, Pete (Melissa) Cable and Dan (Tammy) Cable; 2 nieces, Kelly Schroeder and Melissa (Scott) Day; 1 great-nephew; 3 great-nieces; 1 great-great-nephew; 1 great-great-niece; 1 beloved dog, Banjo; and 1 special cat, Mama.

He was preceded by his parents and brother, Gerald Cable.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at noon Saturday, Jan. 9, at Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center, La Porte, with Pastors Pamela Pask and JoEllyn Chadwick officiating. Burial will follow at Rolling Prairie Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 10 a.m. until the service Saturday at the funeral home.

Due to the recent governor’s order, anyone attending the visitation and/or service is required to wear a mask and practice social distancing of six feet. Also, we are limited to 25 people in the building at any given time. We kindly ask for your patience as we oversee these mandated guidelines.

Memorial donations may be made to the Rolling Prairie Conservation Club, Inc., 3303 E CR-800 N, Rolling Prairie, Ind. 46371.dolences may be shared with the family on www.cutlercares.com.

Gene “Sam” Samuelson, of La Porte, Ind., whose smile lit up a room, passed away unexpectedly at the age of 82 on Friday, Jan. 1, 2021.

He was born Oct. 30, 1938, in La Porte to Russell and Betty Laverne (Wheaton) Samuelson.

Gene was a renaissance man who lived a very full and busy life. He co-owned a barbershop at the Rumely Hotel, sold cars with Blue Chip Auto Sales, worked for La Porte Transit, and owned Sam’s Hilltop Bar & Grill. He was also a well accomplished police officer who held many roles within the La Porte City Police Department. He was an officer and supervisor in the Uniform Division, a detective and supervisor in the Detective Bureau, and an undercover drug investigator. He enjoyed a very diverse career as an officer and when he retired, he retired as the Chief of Police.

Gene clearly did not know what retirement meant since after his retirement from police work, he went on to work for La Porte County Weights & Measures for nine years. Each year a different city held a Weights & Measures conference where he would take his wife, Barbara, and his grandchildren. His grandchildren will tell you those were some of their best times with their grandparents. Gene and Barbara loved being grandparents, and it showed. Gene held many roles in his 82 years, but his best role was as a grandfather.

Gene also had a very busy social life. He was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Knights of Columbus, St. Michael Council 1542, Kiwanis Club, Loyal Order of Moose 492, Polish Falcons Nest 564, PRCU, PNA, the Weights & Measures Association, past president and member of FOP 54, the Police Chiefs Association, and past president and member of the La Porte County Democratic Club. He was also an integral founding member of the Neutral Zone Teen Center.

Gene is survived by his sons, Gregory (Rebecca) Samuelson of La Porte and Douglas (Victoria) Samuelson of Rolling Prairie, Ind.; grandchildren, Joshua (Nicole) Samuelson, Jenifer (James Weir) Samuelson, Jonathon (Quinn) Samuelson, Andrew Samuelson, Emily Samuelson, and Tommy Samuelson; great-grandchildren, Russell, Mitchell and Lydia Samuelson and Adrianna Weir; sister, Gloria (Jack) Whitacre of Pennsylvania; special friend, Edna Kuk; and the many nieces and nephews who have declared him as their favorite uncle.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Barbara Ann (Ciecka) Samuelson on Sept. 16, 2009; his parents; and his siblings: Betty Hartsough and Russell Samuelson Jr.

He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Visitation will be from 4 to 8 p.m. Friday, Jan. 8, at Frank L. Keszei Funeral Home, Essling Chapel, La Porte, where a Parish Rosary will be held at 8 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 9, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, La Porte. Family and friends may visit from 9 to 9:30 a.m. Saturday at the funeral home prior to the Mass. Burial will follow at Pine Lake Cemetery, La Porte.

Memorial contributions may be made to Sacred Heart Parish, 201 Bach St., La Porte, Ind. 46350, or the Food Bank of St. Vincent de Paul at Sacred Heart Parish.

Messages of condolence may be posted below on WNLP as well as at www.esslingfuneralhome.com.

Vern K. Schoof, 86, of La Porte, Ind., passed away Sunday, Jan. 3, 2021, at his home.

He was born Dec. 3, 1934, in Union Mills, Ind., to William J. and Daisey May (Giesler) Schoof.

Vern was a butcher for many years. He enjoyed gardening and working on his fish pond. Vern could be often found tinkering in his garage.

On May 19, 1962, he married Lorraine Laverne Hubner, who preceded him in death.

He was also preceded in death by his parents; son, Matthew Schoof; 3 brothers, Richard, Willard and William Schoof; and 5 sisters, Irene, Marcela, Louise, Joann and Agnes.

Surviving Vern are his sons, Glen Schoof of La Porte and Douglas (Donna) Schoof of Woodridge, Ill.; 3 grandchildren, Levi Schoof of La Porte, Brittany Schoof of La Porte and Dan (Vicki) Huemmer of Willowbrook, Ill.; great-granddaughter, Veronica Huemmer; 2 sisters, Evelyn and Bernadine; many nieces and nephews; and 3 special cats, Midnight, Fuzzball and Sebrina.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 5 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 10, at Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center, La Porte. Cremation will follow the service. Visitation will be held from 3 p.m. until the service Sunday at the funeral home.

Due to the recent governor’s order, anyone attending the visitation and/or service is required to wear a mask and practice social distancing of six feet. Also, we are limited to 25 people in the building at any given time. We kindly ask for your patience as we oversee these mandated guidelines.

Memorial donations may be made to Salvation Army of La Porte, 3240 Monroe St., La Porte, Ind. 46350; or Feeding America, P.O. Box 96749, Washington, D.C. 20090-6749.

Messages of condolence may be posted below on WNLP as well as at www.cutlercares.com.

Donna Marie Latchford, 78, of La Porte, Ind., passed away Sunday, Jan. 3, 2021, at Northwest Health – La Porte.

She was born Aug. 31, 1942, in Buffalo, N.Y., to Joseph and Josephine (LoBrutto) Calderaro.

Donna was a banquet manager at Sheridan East Hotel in Cheektowaga, N.Y., and at Holiday Inn in Michigan City, Ind., for 25-plus years. She was a member of PNA Club 1120. Donna enjoyed holiday gatherings, playing online puzzle games, facetiming family, redecorating her home, and traveling to New York to visit her family and friends. In 1980, she made a ceramic tree and manger in which she took great pride. Donna loved time with her family, especially with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

On Aug. 20, 1960, in Buffalo, N.Y., she married William J. Latchford, who survives.

Also surviving are her children, Lynn Latchford of Knox, Ind., Mark (Kim) Latchford of Valparaiso, Ind., and Angel Riccione of Buffalo, N.Y.; grandchildren, James Knapp, Brian (Mallorie) Knapp, Dalton Knapp, Lisa (Dennis) Traub, and Nick, Brittany (Taz), Gabrielle, and Dillon Latchford; 6 great-grandchildren, Peyton, Rylee, Maddox, Ryatt, Tanner, and Vivian; sister, Sara Jane Maraschello; and numerous nieces and nephews of Buffalo, N.Y.

She was preceded in death by her parents and sister, Clarine Carpentieri.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 6 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 7, at Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center, La Porte. Cremation will follow the service. Visitation will be held at the funeral home Thursday from 4 p.m. until the service.

Due to the recent governor’s order, anyone attending the visitation and/or service is required to wear a mask and practice social distancing of six feet. Also, we are limited to 25 people in the building at any given time. We kindly ask for your patience as we oversee these mandated guidelines.

Memorial donations may be made to the family c/o William Latchford, 2900 Monroe St., La Porte, Ind. 46350, or to the donor’s choice.

Messages of condolence may be posted below on WNLP as well as at www.cutlercares.com.

Michael J. Revers, 77, of Wolfe City, Tex., passed away in Texas on Dec. 3, 2020.

Born in LaPorte, Ind., on Feb. 27, 1943, to Lucille Geisler and Joseph Revers, he was raised by his mother and stepfather, Russell Jensen, in rural La Porte County.

Michael attended Stillwell School before enlisting in the U.S. Air Force. During his tour of duty in Germany, he met his first wife. As a Teamster and a long-haul truck driver with over 2 million miles of safe driving, he drove his usual route from Dallas to Los Angeles just a week before he was hospitalized with COVID-19 complications. His Texas “ranch” was his pride and joy, where he fed “cow candy” to his cows and chased armadillos from the barn. Mike’s easy smile, antics and sense of humor will certainly be missed.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents, wife Gertraud “Gerri” and their son, Christian.

His surviving siblings from his La Porte family include: Robert Jensen (Bobbie) of Alamogordo, N.M., Anne Durrant (Keith Jacks), Barbara Zernick (Frank, deceased) and Judy Smitherman (Jeffrey), all of La Porte. He is survived in Texas by his wife Shirley (Smith) Revers, step-sons and their wives, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and Sharon Cooley (half-sister).

Memorial services will be held at a later date.

Messages of condolence may be posted below on WNLP as well as at www.esslingfuneralhome.com.

Charles “Chuck” Joseph Underwood, 65, passed away Friday, Jan. 1, 2021, at his home.

He was born Jan. 24, 1955, in Michigan City, Ind.

Chuck was a mold maker for 30 years. He retired from JMS Plastics in South Bend, Ind. Chuck enjoyed spending quality time with family. He had a passion for fishing, both as a hobby and participating in tournaments with friends. He also enjoyed spending his time cooking and woodworking. Chuck was a loving husband, father and friend. He will forever be missed and will always be in our hearts.

On Sept. 26, 1981, in La Porte, he married Pamela (Harde) Underwood, who survives. They celebrated 39 years of marriage together.

Also surviving are his beloved children, Jessica Underwood of Michigan City and Charlie (Lindsay) Underwood of Walkerton, Ind., and one beloved granddaughter, Josie Underwood.

A private family gathering was held at Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center in LaPorte.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the family c/o Pamela Underwood, 2900 Monroe St., La Porte, Ind. 46350, or to the donor’s choice.

Messages of condolence may be posted below on WNLP as well as at www.cutlercares.com.

Mary Louise Crone, 98, of La Porte, Ind., passed away Friday, Jan. 1, 2021, at Hamilton Communities, Inc., in New Carlisle, Ind.

She was born July 13, 1922, in New Holland, Ind., the daughter of Noble and Hope (Roose) Garrett.

Mary moved to the La Porte area in 1990 from Wanatah, Ind., where she worked as a teacher’s aide for Wanatah Elementary for 16 years before retiring. She and her husband were “snowbirds,” spending winters in Sebring, Fla., and they loved traveling in their motorhome. Mary was a member of First Christian Church, La Porte, and was a Pink Lady for La Porte Hospital, which she really enjoyed. Her specialty was crocheting such things as blankets and arm covers for furniture. She was also good at quilting and tatting.

On Dec. 14, 1940, in South Bend, Ind., Mary married Guy Crone, who preceded her in death.

Mary was also preceded in death by her parents; two sons James and Robert Crone; brothers, Al, Bill, Phillip and Joe Garrett; and sister, Marge Guthrie.

She is survived by her son, Charles (Darlene) Crone of La Porte; brothers, Donald Garrett of La Paz, Ind., Everett Garrett of Lakeville, Ind.; grandchildren, Laura Crone and Ian (Jill) Crone; and daughter-in-law, Candy Crone.

The family will receive friends Thursday, Jan. 7, at Haverstock Funeral Home and Cremation Services, La Porte, from 10 a.m. until service time at 10:30 a.m., with Pastor Everett Shattuck officiating. Interment will follow at Pine Lake Cemetery, La Porte. Anyone attending these events must wear a mask and practice 6-foot distancing. 

Memorial contributions may be made in Mary’s honor to Comfort 1 Hospice, 129 S. Dixie Way, Suite B, South Bend, Ind. 46637.

Messages of condolence may be posted below on WNLP as well as at www.haverstockfuneralhome.com.

William “Bill” “Junior” Schoof, 90, of La Porte, Ind., passed away Saturday, Jan. 2, 2021, at his home.

Bill was born Jan. 28, 1930, in La Porte to William and Daisie Bernice (Geisler) Schoof.

William worked as a press operator at American Rubber for many years. He enjoyed attending church, watching wrestling and spending time with his family.

Surviving are his 4 daughters, Laura (Bill) Pointon of La Porte, Kathy (Michael) Brooks of North Carolina, Karen (Leonard) Farmer of Kentucky and Patty Schoof of Kentucky; 9 grandchildren, DeAnn Garcia, Jessica Pedigo, Heather Dillon, Chris and Justin Brooks, Maria “Lucy” Rosales, Sean Flaherty, Charlie Farmer, and Nicole Schoof; 25 great-grandchildren; 2 sisters, Evelyn and Bernadine; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Randy Schoof; granddaughter, Brittney Ann Flaherty; great-grandson, Jessie; 3 brothers, Vern, Willard and Richard; and 5 sisters, Iris, Agnes, Joann, Marcella and Louise.

A Celebration of Life Service with Full Military Honors will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 7, at Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center, La Porte, with Pastor Margaret Hunt officiating. Burial will follow at Patton Cemetery, La Porte. Visitation will be held from 10 a.m. until the service Thursday at the funeral home.

Due to the recent governor’s order, anyone attending the visitation and/or service is required to wear a mask and practice social distancing of six feet. Also, we are limited to 25 people in the building at any given time. We kindly ask for your patience as we oversee these mandated guidelines.

Memorial donations may be made to the family c/o DeAnn Garcia, 2900 Monroe St., La Porte, Ind. 46350 or to the donor’s choice.

Messages of condolence may be posted below on WNLP as well as at www.cutlercares.com.

Joshua Allen Arvin tragically died in an auto accident on Thursday, Dec. 24, 2020.

He was born in La Porte, Ind., on Oct. 14, 1991, to Larissa Smith Lump. When she remarried, Joshua was adopted by her second husband, Steven Arvin, and therefore became Joshua Allen Arvin.

In the 29 years we had Joshua, he brought us so much joy. He loved to laugh and have a good time and was always ready for a good joke. He often saw the value in people no one else did. He was drawn to helping those who had no way of helping themselves. Many times, he befriended homeless people and made sure they ate and had a place to sleep for the night. Josh was fiercely loyal and he fiercely loved his family. He was genuine and made no apologies for who he was. His mother and his father along with his brothers and sister will feel the emptiness caused by his loss forever.

Joshua lived and worked in Princeton, Ind., as a lineman at the Toyota factory. In his off hours he spent time at his residence and liked to play Mobile Legends and League of Legends.

Joshua often visited his father Steven and even spent Thanksgiving weekend with him. At the time of his death, Joshua was traveling to spend time with his brother Bret Arvin for the Christmas season.

Joshua dreamed of becoming a welder like his grandfather, Bill Smith. He diligently took the course and realized that dream several years ago. One of Joshua’s fondest dreams was to become an airplane pilot.

Joshua is survived by all of his parents, Larissa (Anthony) Hodum, Steven Arvin and Shawn (Brenda) Lump. Also surviving are his two brothers, Shawn (Sierra) Smith and Bret Arvin, along with his sister Misty (Paco) Acevedo. Also surviving are his paternal grandparents, Richard and Carol Arvin; his uncle, Billy (Marsha) Smith; his aunt, Melissa (Brent) Moore; and several cousins, nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Billy and Ardyce Smith.

A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 9, 2021, at Lakeview Christian Center, 1704 N. County Line Rd., Michigan City, Ind. 46360. Pastor Lorne Hodum will officiate.

Messages of condolence may be posted below on WNLP as well as at www.cutlercares.com.

On Jan. 5, 2021, Dortha “Dot” E. Ryan passed away peacefully at home and was welcomed into heaven by God.

Dortha was 97 years young, born June 13, 1923, in Michigan City, Ind., to Alfred and Almeda Oster.

Dot, known to many, was always talking, smiling and enjoying life. Throughout her life Dot touched many lives and worked for many local La Porte, Ind., retailers, Levine’s, Harvey’s, and JC Penney to name a few. In 1985, she retired from Bernel Foam. She was a member of La Porte Missionary Church, VFW and the La Porte YMCA. Most La Porteans knew Dot’s smiling face and enthusiasm from her endless hours of volunteering at the YMCA. If you were up before dawn, then Dot welcomed you at the “Y” as she opened up at 4 a.m. with “shot of dot.” The YMCA Board of Directors created a Volunteer of the Year Award named after Dortha Ryan and her countless hours and years of volunteer service to the community.

Dortha loved her girls and big family, church, dancing and music. She enjoyed her summer Thursday nights at Arts in The Park, Sunday church services, and countless hours of family times and events. She is the matriarch of the large family and will be missed by us all more than words can express.

On July 3, 1954, in La Porte, she married James “Jim” Ernest Ryan, who preceded her in death on Oct. 12, 1994.

Dortha is survived by her 5 daughters, Valerie M. Blind, Glenna M. Ott, Sheila E. (Carl) Galloway, Joyce L. (Dave) Harshman, and Tammi L. (Rob) Merrill, all of La Porte; 13 grandchildren, Cheri (Jim) Stahl, Diana (Rob) Kuehl, Jeff (Lana) Hough, Shelli Leal, Tim (Johnna) Ott, Amy (Kent) Lutterman, Steven (Katie) Galloway, Lisa (Tedd) Bradford, Monica (Lavon) Oke, Jody Ryan, Robbie Merrill, Jennifer Merrill, and Jeremy Merrill; 28 great-grandchildren; 7 great-great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; siblings, Charles Oster, Clara Satoski, Thelma Matthewson and Karl Kirk; and sons-in-law, Terry Ott and John Blind.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at noon Saturday, Jan. 9, at La Porte Missionary Church. Pastors Carl Galloway and Steve Galloway will officiate. Burial will follow at Patton Cemetery, La Porte. Visitation will be held from 10 a.m. until the service Saturday at the church.

Due to the recent governor’s order, anyone attending the visitation and/or service is required to wear a mask and practice social distancing of six feet.

Memorial donations may be made to La Porte Missionary Church – Building Fund, 104 E. 18th St., La Porte, Ind. 46350, or the donor’s choice.

Messages of condolence may be posted below on WNLP as well as at www.cutlercares.com.

Richard “Dick” Dombrowski, 82, of Michigan City, Ind., affectionately known as Uncle Bucky to his family, passed away peacefully at 10:42 a.m. Friday, Jan. 1, 2021, at Franciscan Health Hospital, Michigan City.

He was born July 23, 1938, in Michigan City to Carl and Theresa (Paskiet) Dombrowski.

Dick was a member of St. Stanislaus Catholic Church. In the 1970s, he ran for ward councilman in Michigan City. He was past president of St. Joseph Young Men’s Society and past member of the Exchange Club, both Michigan City. He was also past president of the Michigan City Water Department. For several years, he owned and operated Dick’s Bar in Michigan City and for several years he worked at Bethlehem Steel as a millwright. Dick retired from the La Porte County Highway Department as a utility inspector. He enjoyed fishing trips with his buddies at Red Lake in Ontario, Canada, and spending time in his sister Gerry’s pool.

Surviving are his three siblings, Carol (Tony) Martin of La Porte, Ind., Darlene Pahl of Michigan City and Ronald (Dotty) Dombrowsky of Hebron, Ind.; several nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews; and his longtime friend and fishing partner, Pat Dougherty.

Preceding him in death were his parents; one sister, Geraldine “Gerry” Richards; and one brother-in-law, Danny Pahl.

Cremation will take place. A private celebration of his life will be held. Lakeview Funeral Home and Crematory, La Porte, is handling arrangements.

Memorial contributions may be directed to St. Joseph Young Men’s Society, 2001 Franklin St., Michigan City, Ind. 46360, in memory of Richard “Dick” Dombrowski.

Messages of condolence may be posted below on WNLP as well as at www.LakeviewFHC.com.

Marilyn C. Buchanan, 91, of Michigan City, Ind., passed away peacefully Sunday, Jan. 3, 2021, in her home with her family by her side.

She was born April 24, 1929, in Cleveland, Ohio, to Clifford and Dorothy (Blackwood) Sachs.

Marilyn graduated from Bexley High School, Columbus, Oh. She continued her education at Miami University of Oxford, Oh., where she majored in art. Marilyn loved her family. She was a devoted wife, a loving mother to her daughters, and a loving grandmother, great-grandmother and great-great grandmother. She loved all her seven nieces and four nephews very much.

On June 11, 1949, in Kentucky, she married the love of her life, Harold E. “Bucky” Buchanan, who preceded her in death.

Also preceding in death were her parents; one brother, David Sachs; and one sister, Judith Sutro.

Surviving are her four children, Diane (Donald) Rodgers of Mt. Crawford, Va., Debra (Timothy) Bartlett of Michigan City, Donna (Carney) Tumer of Bridgewater, Va., and Ginger (Thomas) Newberry of Harrisonburg, Va.; 11 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-granddaughter.

Cremation will take place. There will be no services. Inurnment will take place in Greenwood Cemetery, Michigan City, at a later date. Lakeview Funeral Home and Crematory, La Porte, is handling arrangements.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Dunes Hospice, 4711 Evans Ave., Valparaiso, Ind. 46383, in memory of Marilyn C. Buchanan.

Messages of condolence may be posted below on WNLP as well as at www.LakeviewFHC.com.

Helen M. Bennitt, 95, of La Porte, Ind., passed away Thursday, Jan. 7, 2021.

She was born Sept. 13, 1925, in La Porte County, Ind., to Carl and Edith (DeWitt) Martensen.

Helen was a retired beautician. She owned and operated Helen Bennitt Beauty Salon. She was a member of National Hairdressers & Cosmetologist Association, Rolling Prairie First United Methodist Church, and the Senior Bowling League at Casey’s Lanes.

On Aug. 18, 1944, Helen married Harold Bennitt, who preceded her in death on Jan. 10, 2003.

She was also preceded in death by siblings Lois Markley, Carl Martensen and Norman Martensen.

Helen is survived by two daughters, Judy A. Harenza of La Porte and Thelma J. (Martin) Eigenmann of St. Charles, Mo.; son, Harold A. Bennitt, Jr., of Palm Bay, Fla.; five grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; sister, Doris Bennitt of Sebring, Fla.; and brother, Herbert Martensen of Conroe, Tex.

Visitation will be from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 12, at Frank L. Keszei Funeral Home, Essling Chapel, La Porte. A funeral service will follow at 1 p.m. Burial will follow at Pine Lake Cemetery, La Porte.

Memorial contributions may be made to Dunes Hospice, 4711 Evans Ave., Valparaiso, Ind. 46383, or the charity of the donor’s choice.

Messages of condolence may be posted below on WNLP as well as at www.esslingfuneralhome.com.

Blake Edward Stout, 71, of Kingsford Heights, Ind., passed away Wednesday, Jan. 6, 2021, at his home.

He was born Sept. 27, 1949, in La Porte to Kenneth Paul and Virginia (Howard) Stout.

Blake proudly served in the U.S. Army, where he was a tank mechanic. He completed one tour in Vietnam. Later he worked as a machine operator for many years at Allis-Chalmers. His favorite pastimes included working on old garden tractors and gardening. Blake was affectionately known as a small engine “genius.”

Surviving Blake are his daughter Ericka Stout of Kingsford Heights, Ind.; 4 grandchildren, Dylan Jacko of La Porte, Taylor Stout of La Porte, Nicolette Stout of Kingsford Heights and Timmy Stout of Kingsford Heights; 1 great-grandchild, Vela Jacko;  lifelong partner, Denise Stout of Kingsford Heights; siblings, Paul (Debbie) Stout of Kingsford Heights, Randy (Lori) Stout of Union Mills, Ind., Brad (Lisa) Stout of Austin, Minn., Susie Nehl of Union Mills, Loretta Ake of South Naples, Fla., Barbara Stout of Stillwell, Ind., and Becky Stout of Hamlet. Ind.; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and son, Timothy Charles Stout.

A Celebration of Life Memorial Gathering will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 16, at the American Legion of Kingsford Heights, 500 Grayton Rd., Kingsford Heights.

Due to the recent governor’s order, anyone attending the visitation and/or service is asked to follow the state guidelines concerning public gatherings.

Memorial donations may be made to the Miller Veteran Center, 735 S. Michigan St., South Bend, Ind. 46601.

Messages of condolence may be posted below on WNLP as well as at www.cutlercares.com.

Edwina June Lewis, 71, of La Porte, Ind., passed away Thursday, Jan. 7, 2021, at her home, surrounded by her family.

She was born March 8, 1949, in Oakland City, Ind., to Edwin R. Kell and Ermadel June (Null) Miller.

Edwina was a bookkeeper for 13 years at The Wheelchair Shop. She retired in 2011. Edwina was a member of First Church of God. She enjoyed playing the piano and spending time with her family.

On March 9, 1968, in Michigan City, Ind., she married Robert “Bob” A. Lewis, who survives.

Also surviving are her children, David (Erin) Lewis of La Porte and Lisa (Michael) Typpi of La Porte; 7 grandchildren, Scott (Brittany) Typpi, Samantha (Craig) Stidham, Seth Typpi, Ava Pumroy, and Ethan, Eden, and Ellery Dolezal; 5 great-grandchildren, Milo Zirzow, Jerzey, Paizley, and Eazton Stidham, and Ava Typpi; mother, Ermadel Miller of Gibson County, Ind.; siblings, Fred (Susan) Kell of Loganville, Ga., Esther (Doug) Brown of Michigan City and Joyce (Troy) Virden of Owensville, Ind.; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her father, Edwin Kell; father-in-law, Howard Lewis; and mother-in-law, Wilma Lewis.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at noon Tuesday, Jan. 12, at First Church of God with Pastor Jeff Zigler officiating. Burial will follow at Door Village Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. Monday, Jan. 11, at First Church of God and from 10 a.m. until the service Tuesday at the church.

Due to the recent governor’s order, anyone attending the visitation and/or service is asked to follow the state guidelines concerning public gatherings.

Memorial donations may be made to First Church of God-Missions, 2020 E. Lincoln Way, La Porte, Ind. 46350.

Messages of condolence may be posted below on WNLP as well as at www.cutlercares.com.

Peggy E. Hollifield, 43, passed away Friday, Jan. 7, 2021, at her home.

She was born May 5, 1977, in Valparaiso, Ind., to Doug and Betty (McMeans) Kingery.

Peggy was a homemaker. She greatly loved her children and grandchildren, whom she enjoyed spending time with. Peggy also enjoyed attending garage sales.

She is survived by her 3 children, Mariah (Kyle) Lindsey and their 3 children, Nicki (Jason) Fisher and their 4 children, and Derek Fisher, Jr., and his child; 2 stepdaughters, Kim Mink and Kristen Mink and her son; 1 special bonus child; 3 sisters; and 1 brother.

She was preceded in death by her godfather, Edward Bessler.

Cremation has taken place with Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center, La Porte.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the family c/o Mariah Lindsey, 2900 Monroe St., La Porte, Ind. 46350.

Messages of condolence may be posted below on WNLP as well as at www.cutlercares.com.

John C. Bush, 74, of La Porte, Ind., passed away Monday, Dec. 28, 2020, at his home.

He was born in Westville, Ind., on Dec. 9, 1946, to Clement and Elma (Pointon) Bush.

John was an HVAC/plumber for over 50 years and he loved his career. John was an Army Veteran who was very proud of his service to his country. He was a longtime member and quartermaster of VFW Post 1130 in La Porte. If he wasn’t volunteering with the VFW, you would often find John working in his yard and taking care of all of his flowers.

John enjoyed traveling, a good fish fry on a Friday night (especially a plate of frog legs), and spending time with friends and family. He was a man who loved to help people in any way that he could, which allowed him to make so many friendships over the years. For anyone who knew John, you would know that he was a very happy man who loved to laugh and was a very proud husband, grandpa and Veteran.

On July 8, 1967, in La Porte, he married Sandra Kay Jeffries. She, and his parents, preceded him in death.

On Dec. 16, 2019, John married Margaret Cook of La Porte, who survives.

Also surviving are his step-daughter, Meghan Powell, and her husband, Timothy Powell; 2 grandchildren, Caroline and Maxwell Powell; brother, Tom Bush and his wife, Barbara Bush; his niece, Pam Uidl and her husband, Brian Uidl; and his great-niece, Christy Adams, her husband Austin Adams, and their child Adelyn Adams.

A memorial service will be held in spring 2021. More details will follow, per John’s wishes. Cremation has taken place with Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center, La Porte.

The family is asking that any memorial contributions be directed to VFW Post 1130, 181 W. McClung Rd., La Porte, Ind. 46350, in honor of John.

Messages of condolence may be posted below on WNLP as well as at www.cutlercares.com.

Madison Sinclair Draves, 22, of La Porte, Ind., passed away Wednesday, Jan. 6, 2021.

She was born in La Porte on Sept. 13, 1998, to Steve Draves and Michele Kay (Anderson) Williams.

Madison was the leading sales representative at Madison Motors. She could drive any motorcycle and perfectly back up any trailer. Madison enjoyed driving her Jeep at Silver Lake, Mich. Most importantly, Madison loved spending time with her friends and family.

Surviving Madison are her father, Steve Draves of La Porte; grandparents, Richard and Sandra Draves of La Porte; cousins, Caine and Cheyenne Anderson of Virginia Beach, Va., and Trevor and Isaac Draves of La Porte; uncle, Craig (Donna) Anderson of Virginia Beach and Scott (Terresa) Draves of La Porte; and her beloved dogs.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Michele Kay Williams; uncle, Todd Anderson; grandmother, Karen Anderson; and grandfather, David Anderson.

Cremation has taken place with Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center, La Porte. A Celebration of Life Memorial Gathering will be held from 2 to 6 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 13, at the funeral home.

Due to the recent governor’s order, anyone attending the gathering is required to wear a mask and practice social distancing of six feet. Also, we are limited to 25 people in the building at any given time. We kindly ask for your patience as we oversee these mandated guidelines.

Memorial contributions may be directed to First Church of God, 2020 E. Lincoln Way, La Porte, Ind. 46350.

Messages of condolence may be posted below on WNLP as well as at www.cutlercares.com.