Phyllis J. Metheny, 86, of Michigan City, IN, died peacefully at 12:50 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 12, 2014, in Michigan City.

She was born June 24, 1927, in LaPorte to Harold Walters and Ramona (Holtz) Chapman.

Phyllis was a secretary at Allis-Chalmers in LaPorte for 15 years and went on to retire as a sales associate from Kmart, Michigan City, after 15 years of service. She was a member of St. John’s Church and VFW Ladies Auxiliary in Michigan City. Phyllis enjoyed crocheting, traveling with her husband and collecting knick-knacks.

On July 2, 1959, in Mississippi, she married James “Jack” R. Metheny, who preceded her in death Dec. 28, 2011.

Also preceding her in death were her parents; one sister, Lou Ann Blaze; and one son, Keith Raymond Metheny.

Surviving are two sons, Dennis L. (Sharon R.) Metheny of Michigan City and Roger W. (Crystal) Metheny of Valparaiso, IN; one brother, David Chapman of Connersville, IN; four grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren.

A memorial service celebrating her life will be held at 5 p.m. Friday, Jan. 17, at Lakeview Funeral Home and Crematory, LaPorte, with Pastor James Bouslog officiating. Visitation will be Friday from 4 p.m. until the service. Inurnment of ashes will be in Swan Lake Memorial Gardens, Michigan City, at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to VFW Post 2536, 1101 Earl Rd., Michigan City, IN 46360; or FOP Dunes Lodge 75, 401 Johnson Rd., Michigan City, IN 46360.

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

Danny L. West, 58, died at 9:44 p.m. Friday, Jan. 10, 2014, at IU Health LaPorte Hospital.

He was born Sept. 3, 1955, in Harriman, TN, to James and Maureen (Hembree) West and had lived most of his life in LaPorte.

Danny worked for the former Wirecraft in LaPorte for 23 years. He was founder and owner of Blazing Wheels Skate Shop in LaPorte and supported the creation of Thrills-n-Spills Skate Park. For the past eight years, he had worked at Coleman Cable in Bremen, IN.

On Nov. 16, 1996, in LaPorte, he married the former Karen M. Mejia, who survives.

Also surviving are his three sons, Adam (Melissa) West of Mill Creek, IN, Daniel (Shelley) West of LaPorte and Corey West of LaPorte; stepdaughter, Nina (Corey) McKinney of Westville, IN; two stepsons, Chad (Lisa) Mejia of LaPorte and Ronald (Ashley) Mejia of Michigan City, IN; 11 grandchildren, Gaige, Tyler, Lola, Brooke, Dylan, Ella, Christopher, Ethan, Wayne, Kahlan, and Alyssa; sister, Tish Christner of LaPorte; and three brothers, Mike West and Lanny (Val) West, both of Arkansas, and Jeff West of LaPorte.

Danny’s parents and infant son, Andrew West, preceded him in death.

A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, Jan. 17, at Salem Chapel United Methodist Church, LaPorte, with Rev. Robert Raschka officiating. Friends may visit with the family at the church on Thursday, Jan. 16, from 3 to 8 p.m. and Friday from 10 a.m. until the service. Palmer Funeral Home-Guisinger Chapel, South Bend, IN, is handling arrangements.

Memorial contributions may be made to the family c/o Palmer Funeral Home, 3718 S. Michigan St., South Bend, IN 46614.

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

Mr. Charles D. Meyers, 88, of LaPorte, died Tuesday, Jan. 14, 2014, at Golden Living Center Fountainview Terrace Nursing Home, LaPorte.

He was born April 3, 1925, in Ohio City, OH, to Fred Otto and Nora (Schraw) Meyers. He had lived here 17 years, coming from Fish Lake, IN.

Charles was a sheet metal worker for 31 years at Kinne Sheet Metal of Valparaiso, IN. He was a U.S. Marine Corps veteran of World War II and a member of Wanatah American Legion Post 0403, DAV Chapter 23 in Michigan City, IN, Local 20 Sheet Metal Workers Union of Indianapolis, and LaPorte Presbyterian Church. He enjoyed fishing and spending time with his family.

On July 30, 1949, in Hobart, IN, he married Nancy J. (Kyes) Meyers, who survives.

He is also survived by two sons, Dan (Lynn) Meyers of LaCrosse, IN, and Bruce O. (Cheryl) Meyers of Leesburg, FL; five grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

Charles was preceded in death by his parents; one great-grandson, Devin Baxter; three brothers, Gilbert, Frederick and Marion Meyers; and three sisters, Irene Fox, Lois Wasalewski and Edna Stonecipher.

A funeral service will be held Monday, Jan. 20, at 11 a.m. at Essling Funeral Home, LaPorte, with Rev. Sally Wicks officiating. Visitation will be Sunday, Jan. 19, from 2 to 6 p.m. and Monday from 10 a.m. until the service. Burial will be in Patton Cemetery, LaPorte, following the service Monday, and will include a military service by Wanatah American Legion Post 0403.

Memorial contributions may be made to LaPorte Presbyterian Church, 307 Kingsbury Ave., LaPorte, IN 46350.

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

Anneliese “Anne” Ruth Marlow, 87, of LaPorte, died Jan. 14, 2014, at Brentwood Assisted Living, LaPorte.

She was born Dec. 2, 1926, in Berlin, Germany, to Theodor and Anna (Mentz) Baetz.

Anneliese attended the College of Textiles and Merchandising in Berlin. She worked as seamstress for Levine’s Boston Store in LaPorte and also from her home for many years. Anne was a longtime member of Bethany Lutheran Church in LaPorte.

On March 30, 1954, in Opdyke, IL, she married Gordon L. Marlow, who preceded her in death Oct. 13, 2004.

She was also preceded in death by her parents and her infant son, C. Theodor Marlow, in 1954.

Surviving are her daughter, Rita Marlow of LaPorte; two sons, Homer (Gale) Marlow of Goshen, IN, and Glenn (Brandy) Marlow of Rossville, IN; seven grandchildren, Ray Marlow and Heather (Tyler) Oden of Goshen, Sydney and Zoe Marlow of Rossville, and Allena, Tegan and Elissa Weida of Rossville; great-granddaughter, RaeLynn Kayy Marlow of Goshen; sister, Ellen Baetz of Berlin, Germany; nephews, Mike Williams of Miami Beach, FL, and John Allen of Chicago; niece, Janice Gahagen of Mt. Vernon, IL; and several beloved cousins.

Visitation will be at Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center, LaPorte, on Thursday, Jan. 16, from 6 to 8 p.m., and at Bethany Lutheran Church, LaPorte, on Friday, Jan. 17, from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at the church at 10:30 a.m. Friday with Rev. Dennis Meyer officiating. Burial will follow at Carmel Cemetery in LaPorte.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Bethany Lutheran Foundation, 102 G St., LaPorte, IN 46350.

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

Mrs. Doris M. Olsen, 91, of LaPorte, died Tuesday, Jan. 14, 2014, at IU Health LaPorte Hospital.

She was born June 27, 1922, in LaPorte to George and Edith (Williams) Lain.

On Jan. 10, 1942, in LaPorte, she married Kenneth E. Olsen, who preceded her in death March 4, 1979.

Doris was also preceded in death by her parents and four sisters, Ruth Mould, Cecil Dressback, Opal Ritter and Betty Eikelberg.

She is survived by her son, Terry (Janet) Olsen of LaPorte; two daughters, Nancy Devore and Dianne (Larry) Luse, both of LaPorte; 10 grandchildren; 30 great-grandchildren; and a sister, LaVon (Herb) Hines of LaPorte.

A graveside service will be held at Pine Lake Cemetery, LaPorte, on Friday, Jan. 17, at 1:30 p.m. with Rev. Jeff Zigler officiating. Haverstock Funeral Home and Cremation Services, LaPorte, is handling arrangements.

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, 130 Redcoach, Mishawaka, IN 46545.

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

Mr. Joseph G. Wegiel Jr., 72, of LaPorte, died unexpectedly Tuesday morning, Jan. 14, 2014, at his home.

He was born Nov. 30, 1941, in LaPorte to Joseph G. Sr. and Norma E. (Wells) Wegiel and lived most of his life in the LaPorte area.

Joseph retired from IBM as an electronic technician after 30 years. He was a U.S. Navy veteran, having served on the USS Boston. He attended Sacred Heart Catholic Church and was a graduate of St. Bonaventure Seminary, Sturtevant, WI. He was also a member of Polish National Alliance and PNA Conservation Club, and attended The Crossing on a regular basis. He enjoyed fishing.

He leaves behind two brothers, David (Sue) Wegiel and Dan (Jonnie) Wegiel, both of LaPorte; one niece, Trinity Wegiel; three nephews, Rob (Wendy) Perkins, Dave (Lori) Wegiel Jr. and Greg (Lindsay) Wegiel; several grand-nieces, grand-nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins; his dog, Bert; and his good friends, Don and Pat Turner.

He was preceded in death by his parents and grandparents.

A funeral Mass will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 18, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, LaPorte, with Rev. Ian Williams officiating. Visitation will be at Essling Funeral Home, LaPorte, on Friday, Jan. 17, from 3 to 7 p.m. and Saturday from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. A prayer service will be held at 4 p.m. Friday at the funeral home. Burial will follow the Mass in Patton Cemetery, LaPorte, with military honors.

Memorial contributions may be made to American Heart Association, 3816 Paysphere Circle, Chicago, IL 60674, or to the charity of the donor’s choice.

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

Joann Ruth Montorsi, 62, of LaPorte, died Jan. 15, 2014, at South Bend Memorial Hospital after being a 13-year cancer survivor.

She was born Jan. 10, 1952, in LaPorte to James and Luella (Harris) Worthey and lived here her entire life.

Joann was a sales clerk for Walmart and worked previously at several retail stores. She attended Rolling Prairie United Methodist Church. Joann was a participant of Cancer Relay for Life and a loving mother, wife, grandmother and great-grandmother.

In 1972 in LaPorte, she married Rocky L. Montorsi, who survives.

She is also survived by four sons, Steven (Dawn) Matthews of LaPorte, Vic (Tina Smith) Montorsi of LaPorte, Bill (Tiffany) Montorsi of St. Louis, MO, and Phil Montorsi of Savannah, GA; nine grandchildren; one great-granddaughter; two nephews; and one niece.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her first husband, John Matthews; and one brother, Ralph L. Worthey.

A funeral service will be held Monday, Jan. 20, at 2 p.m. at Essling Funeral Home, LaPorte, with Pastor Ann Dill officiating. Visitation will be Saturday, Jan. 18, from 2 to 6 p.m. and Monday from 1 to 2 p.m. Burial will follow the service.

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, 130 Red Coach Drive, Mishawaka, IN 46530.

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

Mr. Merlin E. Hoeppner, 89, of LaPorte, died Thursday, Jan. 16, 2014, at Settlers House in LaPorte.

He was born Aug. 27, 1924, in LaPorte to Edward W. and Thelma (Mueller) Hoeppner.

Merlin worked for 33 years at American Rubber in LaPorte, retiring in 1989. He was a member of St. John Lutheran Church. Merlin was a U.S. Army veteran of World War II.

He is survived by three sons, Frank (Kathleen Wells) Hoeppner of Villages, FL, Jerry Hoeppner of Marrietta, GA, and James Platt of LaPorte.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one son, Wayne Hoeppner; a brother, Donald H. Hoeppner; and a sister, Marjorie Kueker.

A graveside service will be held at Tracy Cemetery, Hamlet, IN, on Monday Jan. 20, at 1 p.m. with Rev. Ronald Brauer officiating. A military service will be conducted at the service by the VFW and American Legion Honor Guard. Haverstock Funeral Home and Cremation Services, LaPorte, is handling arrangements.

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

John Everrett Plumley, 70, of Mooresville, NC, died Monday, Jan. 14, 2014, at Gordon Hospice House in Mooresville.

He was born April 6, 1943, in Atlanta, MI, to John Robert and Anne (Sumerix) Plumley.

John was a U.S. Army veteran. He had retired from Walmart. He was a member of Fern Hill Baptist Church in Mooresville.

He is survived by his wife of 43 years, Norma (McKnight) Plumley; her children, Gene Church and his wife Vicki, James Church and Carolyn Camie; six grandchildren; his children, Thomas Plumley and wife Mary, Michelle Miller and Annie Taylor and husband Adam; 12 grandchildren; two sisters, Patricia Kent and Sharon Kelso; and brother, Robert “Bob” Plumley.

John was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Effie George; brother, Dale Plumley; and half-sister, Lorraine Famularo.

A graveside service will be held at Pine Lake Cemetery, LaPorte, on Tuesday, Jan. 21, at 10 a.m. with Rev. Ronald Devenport officiating. Interment will follow. Haverstock Funeral Home and Cremation Services, LaPorte, is handling arrangements.

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

Carol A. Walter, 72, of Portage, MI, and formerly of LaPorte, died peacefully at home surrounded by her loving family on Jan. 20, 2014.

She was born in Knox, IN, on Sept. 27, 1941, to Clarence and Mary (Jernas) Weidner.

Carol attended Central United Methodist Church in Colorado Springs, CO. She loved and enjoyed her grandchildren and will be deeply missed by those whose lives she touched.

On Aug. 26, 1967, she married Donald Walter, who survives.

Also surviving are her beloved children: son, Curtis (Karen Egge) Walter of Wheaton, IL, and daughter, Michelle (William) Cavanaugh of Portage, MI; grandchildren, Christopher, Kyle and Emily Cavanaugh, all of Portage, MI; sister, Phyllis (Gale) Schneider of LaPorte; and sister-in-law, Carolyn Walter of LaPorte.

She was preceded in death by her parents and sister, Kathleen Wilson.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 11 a.m. CST Saturday, Jan. 25, at Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center, LaPorte. Visitation will be Saturday from 10 a.m. CST until the service. Burial will follow at Patton Cemetery, LaPorte.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the National Kidney Foundation, 30 E. 33rd St., New York, NY 10016.

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

Carol Jean Broeker, 80, of Kokomo, IN, and formerly of LaPorte, died at 4:35 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 17, 2014, at North Woods Village in Kokomo.

She was born July 22, 1933, in LaPorte to Edward L. and Mary (Luber) Broeker.

Carol was a quiet person, except when watching the Cubs, Bears or Colts on TV. She enjoyed embroidering, playing cards, jigsaw puzzles and going to ball games, especially when a relative was playing. Another joy to Carol when she was young was baking breads and going to the movies with her grandmother, Mary Luber.

She is survived by her brother, Richard (Beverly) Broeker of Kokomo; sister-in-law, Deborah Broeker of Eugene, OR; brother-in-law, Garland Peterson of LaPorte; nieces and nephews, Rebecca Uhler of Eugene, Kyle Broeker of Ontario, OH, Amey Broeker of Ashland, OR, Alison (Jim) McElroy of Redmond, WA, Jay (Angie) Broeker of St. Paul, MN, Elise (David) Davidson of Fishers, IN, Neil (Camy) Broeker of Avon, IN, Mark Peterson of LaPorte, and Sheri (Scott) West of LaPorte; and 10 great-nieces and great-nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Edward J. Broeker; sister, Rosemary Peterson; and nephew, Scott Jeffery Broeker.

Visitation will take place at Haverstock Funeral Home and Cremation Services, LaPorte, on Thursday, Jan. 23, from 10 to 11 a.m., with a funeral service to follow at 11 a.m. with Rev. Evan Lash officiating. Interment will follow at Pine Lake Cemetery, LaPorte.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, 130 Redcoach, Mishawaka, IN 46545.

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

Jerry Wayne Hughes, 70, of Rochester, IN, died at IU Health LaPorte Hospital on Monday, Jan. 20, 2014.

He was born April 1, 1943, to Willie and Maude (Nelson) Hughes.

Jerry retired from Howmet in LaPorte after 33 years of service. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and playing cards.

On April 3, 1959, he married Phyllis Kiefer; she preceded him in death on June 7, 2012. They were married for 53 years.

He was also preceded in death by his parents, five brothers and one sister.

Surviving are his daughters, Laura (Jeff) Matchette of Kingsbury, IN, and Linda (Michael) McLeese of LaPorte; five grandchildren, Shawnique Johnson, Nicole Hughes, Dustin (Krystal) Hine and Michael Jo Lehman, all of LaPorte, and Jana (Billy) Haley of Angola, IN; nine great-grandchildren, Jordan, Zachary, Shianne, Jerry, Dustin, Faith, Jaelyn, Billy, and Abigail; siblings, Al (Jean) Hughes, Bob (Joy) Hughes, Margaret (Chuck) Hughes, Frances (Glen) Jankowski, Clifford (Sue) Hughes, Treva (Dillard) Lawson, Don Hughes, and Brenda Pagen; and many nieces and nephews.

Cremation has taken place and a private family service will be held. Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center, LaPorte, is handling arrangements.

Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of the donor’s choice.

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

Don W. Jessup, 90, of Hanna, IN, died Friday, Jan. 17, 2014, at Brentwood Assisted Living, LaPorte.

He was born May 14, 1923, in Hanna to Fred and Marie (Swing) Jessup.

Don graduated from Hanna High School in 1941. He served with the U.S. Army during World War II in the Pacific. He was the second of three generations to operate the State Farm Insurance Agency in Hanna, from 1953 to 1986. He then spent winters on Big Pine Key in Florida. Don was a member of Hanna United Methodist Church and Hanna American Legion Post 472. He was a 62-year member of the Hanna Lions Club.

On Jan. 6, 1945, Don married Elsa Grieger, who preceded him in death in 2010.

He was also preceded in death by his parents and one sister, Lois Ebel.

Surviving are two sons, James (Virginia) Jessup of Hanna and Dean (Jan) Jessup of Goshen, IN; five grandchildren, Lori (Mike) Carey, Leanne (Baron) Bennett, Silas (Chris) Jessup, Paige (Patrick) McGinley and Kabe (Katie) Jessup; and 12 great-grandchildren.

A funeral service will be held Tuesday, Jan. 21, at noon at Hanna United Methodist Church with Rev. Darren Williams officiating. Visitation will be Tuesday at the church from 10 a.m. until the service. Private burial will follow at Hanna Cemetery. Wanatah Funeral Chapel is handling arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Don and Elsa Jessup Memorial Fund at Hanna United Methodist Church, or the Hanna Lions Club.

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

James H. Robinson, 85, of LaPorte, died Jan. 21, 2014, at his home.

James was born June 13, 1928, in Rocky Point, NY, to James H. and Mildred (Edwards) Robinson.

James was an industrial engineer, specializing in plant management, machine and tool design and manufacturing systems. He was employed at Kota Products in Long Island, NY, then was transferred to Elwood, IN, in 1961 to become vice president/general manager at Kota Midwest, a manufacturer of building products and related equipment. He later relocated to Joliet, IL, as plant manager for Challenger Products. In 1964 he was assigned to Kingsbury, IN, as general manager of Challenger Products. In 1967 he became superintendent of the Carroll Avenue Plant at Inter-Royal Corporation in Michigan City, IN, and later became director of manufacturing, a three-plant operation, until 1981. He was employed at Modine Manufacturing as manager of manufacturing until 1983, when he started Environmental Products (EPI), a contract furniture and related equipment facility in Kingsbury. He retired from there in 2000.

James was a combat veteran of the U.S. Army, having served in the Korean War as a sergeant 1st class and receiving the following awards: Combat Infantry, Bronze Star, UN Service Medal, Japan Occupation Medal, and Korean Liberation Medal from the South Korean Government. He was a graduate of Port Jefferson High School, NY, and continued his education at Adelphi College and Long Island College in Farmingdale, NY. Jim’s organizational affiliations included the Industrial Engineer Society, Chicago Chapter; Geneva Group Consultant Engineers; U.S. War Production Board in Washington, D.C.; LaPorte Knights of Columbus; St. Joseph Parish Council; and Boy Scouts of America master.

On Sept. 19, 1953, he married Mary E. Fowler of Port Jefferson, NY, at Infant Jesus Catholic Church.

He is survived by his wife of 60 years, as well as four children: Kathleen Love of Woodridge, IL, David Robinson of Libertyville, IL, Elizabeth Banic of South Bend, IN, and Thomas Robinson of LaPorte; and nine grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by two sisters and three brothers, all of Long Island, NY.

A memorial Mass will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, Jan. 24, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, LaPorte. A private burial will follow at Pine Lake Cemetery, LaPorte. Essling Funeral Home, LaPorte, is handling arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association at www.heartorg/gift, or the Michael J. Fox Foundation at www.mifox.org.

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

Barbara J. Griffin, 64, of LaPorte, died unexpectedly at 8:01 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 21, 2014, at her home.

She was born July 18, 1949, in Soddy-Daisy, TN, to Charles and Geneva (Alexander) Gibson.

Barbara had worked at Aero Metals. She enjoyed martial arts, traveling, skeet shooting, playing pool and cards, collecting Coca-Cola memorabilia, and spending time with her family. She was a past member of the Japan Karate Association.

In September 1976, in Las Vegas, NV, she married Thomas Griffin, who survives.

Also surviving are her three sisters, Alma Hammons, Jeri Kenyon and Debbie (Mike) Pawlikowski, all of LaPorte; four nieces, Tammie (Allan) Buel, Misty Rosetto, Chrystal (Jed) Ziegler and Ashley Kenyon, all of LaPorte; three nephews, Jack (Crystal Gaul) Umphrey of Oklahoma, Cary (Robert Hutchinson) Hammons of LaPorte and Tony Whittemore of LaPorte; and 10 great-nieces and great-nephews.

Preceding her in death were her parents; one brother, Charles Gibson Jr.; and one sister, Diane (Umphrey) Robbins.

A funeral celebrating her life will be held at 6 p.m. Friday, Jan. 24, at Lakeview Funeral Home and Crematory, LaPorte, with Pastor Rod Nielsen officiating. Visitation will be Friday from 2 p.m. until the service. Burial will be in Pine Lake Cemetery, LaPorte, at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the family.

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

Bond D. Bailey, 75, of LaPorte, died Tuesday, Jan. 21, 2014, at his home.

He was born Feb. 3, 1938, in Hornersville, MO, to Sylvester and Lucille (Carrington) Bailey.

Bond worked for 38 years as a conductor for South Shore Railroad, retiring in 2000. He was a U.S. Navy veteran, having served during peacetime. He enjoyed gardening, woodcarving and painting.

On April 18, 1981, in LaPorte, he married Grace (Bline) Bailey, who survives.

He is also survived by two sons, Laren (Beth) Bailey of Plymouth, IN, and Darren Bailey of Michigan City, IN; three stepsons, John (Tammy) Bline of Elkhart, IN, Timothy Bline of LaPorte and Robert (Lynn) Bline of Rolling Prairie, IN; nine grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; two brothers, Bill Bailey of Memphis, TN, and Rick Bailey of Naples, FL; and one sister, JoAnn McGurn of Memphis.

Bond was preceded in death by his parents and daughter, Lisa Bailey.

The family will receive friends at Haverstock Funeral Home and Cremation Services, LaPorte, on Friday, Jan. 24, from 4 to 8 p.m. and Saturday, Jan. 25, from 10 to 11 a.m. A life celebration will be held Saturday at 11 a.m. at the funeral home with Pastor Matthew Elliott officiating. Interment will follow at Patton Cemetery, LaPorte.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Plaza, P.O. Box 1873, Memphis, TN 38105.

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

Christine Williams, 75, of LaPorte, died peacefully at home on Wednesday, Jan. 22, 2014.

She was born April 5, 1938, to Gerome and Etta (Lewis) Howard.

Christine was a dedicated homemaker who lived for her grandchildren. She attended Kingsbury Baptist Church and was an avid angel collector.

On July 21, 1956, in Fairborn, OH, she married Kelly Williams; he preceded her in death on June 8, 2013.

She was also preceded in death by her parents; siblings, Denzil, Phillip, Alfred, Robert and Evan Howard, Geraldine Reese, and Eva Johnson; and a sister-in-law, Jane Howard.

She is survived by her daughters, Anita (Ray) Davis and Dema (John) Furaitar, both of LaPorte, and Rita (Paul) Finazzo of Valparaiso, IN; a son, Kelly S. (Michelle) Williams of Rolling Prairie, IN; granddaughters, Kim (Tyrell) Roberts, Kelli (James Metcalf) Davis, and Angela, Jessica and Olivia Williams; grandsons, Ray (Alice Walters) Davis Jr. and Paul Finazzo Jr.; great-grandchildren, Miranda Ritchie, Madison and Chloe Roberts, Christopher Ritchie and James Metcalf Jr.; a brother, Charles Howard; and many nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, Jan. 27, at Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center, LaPorte, with Rev. Rufus Williams and Pastor Tim Williams officiating. Friends and family will be received Sunday, Jan. 26, from 4 to 7 p.m. and Monday from 10 a.m. until the service. Burial will follow at Pine Lake Cemetery, LaPorte.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the American Cancer Society or hospice.

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

Barbara A. Amor, 81, of LaPorte, died Tuesday, Jan. 21, 2014, at Golden Living Center Fountainview, LaPorte.

She was born April 24, 1932, in Madison, WI, to George and Marine (Nissen) Merchant.

Barbara retired as an inventory analyst from Whirlpool Corp. She was a member of First Baptist Church of Ocala, FL.

On Jan. 5, 1952, in LaPorte, she married Marion Amor, who survives.

She is also survived by her son, David (Alice) Amor of Kouts, IN; two grandchildren, Nick (Charity) Amor of West Lafayette, IN, and Andrea (Jeff) Overholt of Kouts; and four great-grandchildren, Wyatt Amor, Faith Amor, Jesse Overholt and Anna Overholt.

Barbara was preceded in death by her parents.

The family will receive friends at Haverstock Funeral Home and Cremation Services, LaPorte, on Monday, Jan. 27, from 5 to 6 p.m. A memorial service will be held Monday at 6 p.m. at the funeral home with Pastor Chris Birky officiating. Cremation has taken place. Burial of ashes will be held at Pine Lake Cemetery, LaPorte, at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to the United Mitochondrial Disease Foundation at www.umdf.org.

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

Michael Dewayne Lawrence, 53, of Portage, IN, died unexpectedly Tuesday, Jan. 21, 2014, at home.

He was born Feb. 22, 1960, in Michigan City, IN, to Lester and Lois (West) Lawrence.

Michael worked as a mechanic. He enjoyed NASCAR, camping, riding his motorcycle, being outdoors, working on vehicles, and spending time with his grandchildren.

On July 30, 1988, in Michigan City, IN, he married Brenda (Wallis) Lawrence, who survives.

Also surviving are his son, Shane Lawrence of LaPorte; one stepson, Shane (Chelsi) Wallis of War Acres, OK; four brothers, Bill of Florida, Lonnie (Ladonna) of Indiana, Tim (Irene) of Florida and Ryan Lawrence of Elkhart, IN; two sisters, Tosha and Leora Lawrence, both of Michigan; six grandchildren, Hallie, Destiny, Shane and Nicole Lawrence and Parker and Sophia Wallis; and four sisters-in-law, Anna Wallis, Laura Howard, Mary Evans and Julie (Tony) Lindquist.

His parents preceded him in death.

A funeral celebrating his life will be held at 4 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 28, at Lakeview Funeral Home and Crematory, LaPorte, with Pastor Michael Bean officiating. Visitation will be Tuesday from 2 p.m. until the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to the family.

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

Mary M. Kowalkowski, 88, our dear mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister and aunt, died suddenly on Jan. 22, 2014, at IU Health LaPorte Hospital surrounded by her loving family.

She was born Mary Martha Bladecki in Rolling Prairie, IN, on Feb. 24, 1925, to Lawrence A. “Vernie” and Josephine (Pekofski) Bladecki, the third of seven children.

Mary graduated from Rolling Prairie High School in 1943 and began working at Allis-Chalmers, LaPorte, in the mailroom. As a young woman, she was introduced to the love of her life, John I. Kowalkowski, and corresponded with him throughout his service during World War II. After his return home, they were married on May 3, 1947, at St. John Kanty Catholic Church in Rolling Prairie.

Mary was a beautiful matriarch who was devoted to her husband and family. As a mom, she made taffy apples for school bazaars, sewed sashes for the graduating class (and did many other jobs without complaint that her children volunteered her for), and warmly opened her home to neighborhood children and school friends. As her children grew older, she took a job as a clerk at Essling’s dry cleaners in LaPorte and mentioned often how much she enjoyed working with the public. As a grandma, she spent many Sunday afternoons putting together puzzles, playing cards, and making her grandchildren feel like the most important people in the world. She took great pleasure in knowing what special treats her great-grandchildren would most enjoy. Later in her life, as her husband’s health declined, she tended to him with untiring compassion.

Mary served her community for years in the St. Vincent DePaul Society, served on the funeral committee, worked as a money counter, and did many other “behind the scenes” jobs for St. Joseph’s Parish in LaPorte. She had a fantastic memory and always remembered to send birthday and anniversary cards, even as her extended family grew very large. She was grateful when people thought of her and never failed to send a beautifully handwritten personal note of thanks. She was the loveliest lady in the lives of those who were blessed to know her.

She enjoyed quilting, working on family genealogy and spending time in her garden. She liked baking and canning and was famous for her apple pies. Most of all she enjoyed spending time with her family and making those around her happy and comfortable. A most gentle quiet light who never spoke an unkind word, Mary was the epitome of grace, humility and selflessness.

Mary is survived by her daughter, Joan (Rex) Stone of LaPorte, and son, James (Debra) Kowalkowski of Muncie, IN; her grandchildren, Jennifer (Russell) Hopper, Jason Stone, Juliette (Jed) Joseph, Jeremiah (Kathryn) Stone, Matthew (Theresa) Kowalkowski, and Michael (Leo) Kowalkowski; her great-grandchildren, Diana, Andrew, Isaac, Jennifer, Autumn, Payton, Sofie, Elizabeth, RJ, Miranda, Evan, Easton, and Mariah; one sister, Rosella Tuszynski of Gary, IN; two brothers, George (Mary Lou) Bladecki of Rolling Prairie and Andrew Bladecki of LaPorte; her brother in law, Bert Stopczynski of LaPorte; and many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband; her granddaughter, Jodi Stone; one sister and two brothers.

A Mass of Christian burial will take place Monday, Jan. 27, at 10 a.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church, LaPorte, with Rev. Eduardo Malagon officiating. Friends and family will be welcomed at Essling Funeral Home, LaPorte, on Sunday, Jan. 26, from 2 to 7 p.m. and on Monday from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. The rosary will be recited at 6 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home. Burial will follow the Mass in St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery, LaPorte.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Joseph Catholic Church, 109 C St., LaPorte, IN 46350, or to the donor’s choice.

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