Walter Earl Baker, 82, of LaPorte, died May 26, 2014, at his home.

He was born Jan. 5, 1932, in LaPorte to Harry and Lillian (Mitchell) Baker.

Walter served in the U.S. Air Force. He retired after a career with the U.S. Postal Service. Walter loved camping and traveling and even traveled to all 50 states.

On Jan. 26, 1952, he married Patricia Marie (Steele) Baker, who survives.

Also surviving are his beloved children: three sons, Lyle Baker of LaPorte, Harold Baker Fayetteville, GA, and Colin Baker of Sharpsburg, GA, and three daughters, Roberta Morton of Mill Creek, IN, Rebekah Sears of Peru, IN, and Pamela Luzadder of Goose Creek, SC; and two sisters, Jane Myers of Niles, MI, and Sarah Sims of Mill Creek.

He was preceded in death by his parents; three sisters, June Searing, Laura Hill and Nancy Harmon; and two brothers, Carl Baker and Johnny Stevens.

A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, May 31, at Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center, LaPorte, with Thomas Troxell officiating. Visitation will be Saturday held from 10 a.m. until the service.

Memorial contributions may be directed to IU Health LaPorte Hospital VNA Hospice, 901 S. Woodland Ave., Michigan City, IN 46360.

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

Kevin DeWayne Wilke, 53, of LaPorte, died May 26, 2014, at his home surrounded by his loving family.

He was born March 1, 1961, in Michigan City, IN, to Carl and Eileen (Haynes) Wilke.

Kevin enjoyed selling at flea markets and yard sales, and he loved old cars and fishing.

On July 9, 1994, he married Lisa (Nelson) Wilke, who survives.

Also surviving are his children, Kody, Chris and Shelby Wilke, all at home in LaPorte, Jamie (Richie) Camadys of Michigan City, David Wilke of Michigan City, and Jason (Vicki) Jackman of Fish Lake, IN; grandson, James Mashburn of Michigan City; brother, Terry Wilke of LaPorte; and many nieces, nephews and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Daniel Wilke, Ronald Wilke and Mike Wilke; sister, Carlene Stalbaum; niece, Robin Wilke; and nephew, Andrew Wilke.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, May 30, at Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center, LaPorte, with Pastor Randy Cook officiating. Visitation will be Thursday, May 29, from 4 to 8 p.m. and Friday from 10 a.m. until the service. Burial will follow the service at Pinhook Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the family of Kevin Wilke, c/o Lisa Wilke, 2900 Monroe St., LaPorte, IN 46350.

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

John Lester Maglio, 56, of Rolling Prairie, IN, died peacefully at 7:30 a.m. Saturday, May 24, 2014, in his home.

He was born Oct. 8, 1957, in LaPorte to Anthony Salvador Maglio and Ethel (Hancock) Perkins.

John was a self-employed mechanic. He enjoyed fishing and computers, especially his computer game, Tibia.

Surviving are three children, Johnny Maglio of LaPorte, Kelly Maglio of Rolling Prairie and Butch Maglio of LaPorte; and one grandchild, Lilly Mae Maglio.

Preceding him in death were his parents; one brother, Anthony Maglio; and one sister, Julie Maglio.

A funeral celebrating his life will be held at 1 p.m. Friday, May 30, at Lakeview Funeral Home and Crematory, LaPorte, with Pastor David Adams officiating. Visitation will be Friday from 11 a.m. until the service. Burial will take place at Sauktown Cemetery, Mill Creek, IN.

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

A Celebration of Life Memorial Service for Mary L. Utley will be held Tuesday, June 3, 2014, at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, LaPorte, with Father Thomas Kincaid officiating. Visitation will be at the church Tuesday from 10 a.m. until the service. Mary donated her body to science and burial will take place at a later time at Pine Grove Cemetery in New Buffalo, MI.

Mary, 80, of LaPorte, died March 16, 2014, at St. Anthony Hospice in Michigan City, IN.

She was born in New Buffalo, MI, on June 3, 1933, to Robert B. and Elsie (Eggert) Hoder.

A member of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in LaPorte since 1957, Mrs. Utley was a former Sunday school teacher, choir and women’s board member, and a co-founder of the church’s considerable library, which she was privileged to use for research. She was also a member of the Episcopal Synod of America and the Prayer Book Society. In her younger years, she was a volunteer Pink Lady at LaPorte Hospital, a Friend of LaPorte Library, PTA member, LaPorte PTA legislation chairman, and a member of the New York Metropolitan Opera and Chicago Lyric Opera guilds. She was also a Republican precinct committeewoman and held numerous positions with that party, including delegate to four state conventions.

When the LaPorte Symphony Orchestra was founded in 1972, Mary quickly became a member and from then on served it in many capacities: publicist, board member, and finally, as program annotator for 30 years. After their 1981 marriage, she and her husband John “Jack” Utley became a working team. At the time she was a freelance writer, contributing over 200 stories to the South Bend Tribune from 1976-1984, covering such diverse personalities as Luciano Pavarotti, Ella Fitzgerald, music scholar Carl Haas and composer Gian Carlo Menotti. She covered music festivals from Seattle to Scotland (and getting there on the QE2), the Harlem Globetrotters, and opening day with the Chicago Cubs. In 1997, she published a compilation of her works entitled “Program Notes by Mary Utley — Making Music Together for 25 Years with the LaPorte Symphony Orchestra,” and in 2006 a sequel to it entitled “Program notes — the Encore Years.” Her program notes about George Frederick Handel’s oratorio “Messiah” are used annually with Michigan City’s Presbyterian Church’s production of it. In 2006, she published her life’s major work, a book entitled “The Bible and the World Together, an Historical Guide Book” (available on Amazon.com).

She was married in 1981 to Major John H. “Jack” Utley Jr. (USAR) (ret.), with whom she shared four children: Elizabeth (Donald) Simmons of Harrisonburg, VA, David Koster of Atlanta, GA, Anne (Edward) French of Fort Myers, FL, and John H. Utley III of Michigan City. She is also succeeded by two grandchildren, Jennifer (Casey) Kaleba of Hyattsville, MD, and Trevor McWhirter of San Francisco, CA; and two great-grandchildren, Elsie and Islay Kaleba of Hyattsville. Also surviving are a sister, Carole (Raymond) Bronicki of Niles, MI; brother, Carl (Donna) Hoder of Michigan City; sister-in-law, Margaret (Gary) Hays of Walkersville, MD; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband, John, and sister, Margaret (Otto) Zack.

Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center, LaPorte, is handling arrangements.

Memorial contributions may be made to the LaPorte County Symphony Orchestra, P.O. Box 563, LaPorte, IN 46352 or at www.lcso.net; or St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 1000 Michigan Ave., LaPorte, IN 46350.

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

Kirby Locke, 79, of Plymouth, IN, died 12:22 a.m. Thursday, May 29, 2014, at Golden Living Center, LaPorte. Our beloved Dad, Pop, and Brother lost his courageous battle with lung cancer.

He was born Dec. 29, 1934, in Patten, Maine, to Horace and Ruebena (Chase) Locke.

Kirby was in the Class of 1953, Patten Academy, Maine. He honorably served his country in the Navy from 1953-1961. He was a retired union electrical worker. Kirby enjoyed cooking. He loved animals, especially his cat, Bowleg. Kirby loved and never lost interest in his home state of Maine.

He was married to Helen G. Watson for 23 years. He then married Barbara (Cook) Locke, who preceded him in death.

Also preceding him in death were his parents; one brother, Chet McGraw; and one great-grandson, Devin Sroka.

Surviving are one daughter, Dee (Dennis) Elpers of LaPorte; three grandchildren, Casey (Marc) Gumm, Jennifer (Mike) Hryndej and Michael (Cathy) Elpers; seven great-grandchildren; one sister, Sheila (Rodney) Nelson; sister-in-law, Betty McGraw; and several nieces and nephews.

His request was to be cremated. There will be no services. Lakeview Funeral Home and Crematory, LaPorte, is handling arrangements.

Memorial contributions can be made to the American Cancer Society, 130 Red Coach Dr., Mishawaka, IN 46545.

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

Mrs. Arlene Ruth Cavinder, 83, of LaPorte, died May 30, 2014, at Hamilton Grove Nursing Home, New Carlisle, IN.

She was born June 6, 1930, in LeNoir City, TN, to Homer and Ethel (Carpenter) McKeehan and had lived in LaPorte most of her life.

Arlene had retired after 15 years of employment at Howmet. She had also babysat for 150 children throughout her lifetime.

On July 29, 1949, in LaPorte, she married Warren Cavinder, who preceded her in death on July 21, 2001.

She was also preceded in death by her parents; four sisters, Lois Neidigh, Dolores Eskridge, Marge Finney and Jean Eskridge; and two brothers, Arygil McKeehan and Herbert McKeehan.

Arlene is survived by Danny (Cleta) Cavinder of Alredo, TX; Nancy (Richard) Emmons of LaPorte; Darla Cavinder of LaPorte; Timothy (Christina) Cavinder of LaPorte; seven grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.

A funeral service will be held Wednesday, June 4, at 10 a.m. at Essling Funeral Home, LaPorte. Visitation will be Tuesday, June 3, from 4 to 7 p.m. and Wednesday from 9 to 10 a.m. Burial will be in Patton Cemetery, LaPorte, following the service.

Memorial contributions may be made to the family c/o Essling Funeral Home.

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

Bruce Allen Johnson, 58, of Milpitas, CA, and formerly of LaPorte, died Wednesday, April 23, 2014, at the Palo Alto, CA, Veterans Hospital as the result of an accident he had while coming back from camping on May 31, 2013, which left him mostly paralyzed.

He was born Jan. 29, 1956, in Lafayette, IN, to Melvin Edward and Alice Elizabeth (Black) Johnson.

Bruce graduated from LaPorte High School, where he was a pitcher on the LaPorte Slicers baseball team. He attended Ball State University. A U.S. Army veteran, Bruce was stationed in Germany where he served on the Ski Patrol. Bruce worked at Varian and Novellus in San Jose, CA, in the computer chip industry for over 25 years before joining MiaSole’ in the solar panel industry. Bruce was an avid sportsman and outdoorsman who loved camping, biking, and especially kayaking on weekends. He was very creative in gardening, arranging flowers, landscaping, and decorating his beautiful home that he loved. He had a heart of gold and loved his grandchildren.

He is survived by his daughter, Nina (Beattie II) Roggasch; four grandchildren, Beattie III, James, Jonathan and Shyann Roggasch; his mother; two brothers, Terry (LaQueta) Johnson of Coral Springs, FL, and Keith (Judy) Johnson; two sisters, Cynthia (Brian) Swanson and Kathy (Marty) Geiger; two nephews; three nieces; several aunts and uncles; and special friend, Linda.

He was preceded in death by his father and grandparents.

Cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will take place at 11 a.m. Saturday, June 7, at Lambs Chapel United Methodist Church, LaPorte, with Pastor Lynn Breeden officiating. Visitation will be at the church Saturday from 10 to 11 a.m. A private family burial with full military honors will take place at Patton Cemetery, LaPorte. Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center, LaPorte, is handling arrangements.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Compassion Ministry of Lambs Chapel United Methodist Church, c/o Jackie Steele, 6006 N. Fail Rd., LaPorte, IN 46350.

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

Vernon Elmer “Jim” Laue, 82, of LaPorte, died Friday, May 30, 2014, at IU Health LaPorte Hospital.

He was born Dec. 1, 1931, in Randolph, WI, to Elmer Carl William and Minnie (Bahr) Laue.

Vernon worked as an administrator for the Indiana Department of Correction. He was a member of Rolling Prairie United Methodist Church and his local Parkinson’s support group. He was a U.S. Air Force veteran, having served in the Korean War, and was stationed in England for three years. He graduated from the University of Wisconsin and worked as a banker for several years in Rolling Prairie. He and his family were part owners of a golf course in New Carlisle between his years as a banker and a correction officer. Vernon was a lifelong Packers and Cubs fan and a recent Brewers fan. He enjoyed fishing at his cabin in Eagle River WI, painting, drawing, and most of all being with friends and family. His greatest passion was his family, whom he loved more than anything.

On Sept. 3, 1955, in Beaver Dam, WI, he married Miriam “Sue” Gail Larson, who survives.

Also surviving are his beloved children, Steve (Pam) Laue of LaPorte, Stuart (Sandra) Laue of Henderson, NV, and Karen (Jeff) Drudi of Traverse City, MI; six grandchildren, Eric Laue of Milwaukee, WI, Kristin Laue of Alaska, Amanda Laue of LaPorte, Ian Laue of LaPorte, Sean (Mei) Laue of Surprise, AZ, and Alexa Drudi of Traverse City, MI; siblings, Kenneth (Carol) Laue and Gordon (Gwen) Laue, both of Beaver Dam, WI; sister-in-law, Minnie Laue of Beaver Dam; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his siblings, Mervin Laue and Bernice Schultz; and an infant son, James Robert Laue.

A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be taking place and will be announced at a later date. A cremation committal has taken place with Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center, LaPorte.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to Rolling Prairie United Methodist Church, PO Box 187, Rolling Prairie, IN 46371; or the American Parkinson’s Disease Association, 1800 N. Main St., Wheaton, IL 60187.

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

Mr. Kevin C. Young, 55, of Rolling Prairie, IN, died at his home.

He was born June 4, 1958, in South Bend, IN, to Carl and Dorothy (Hannah) Young.

Kevin was an electronics technician.

On Dec. 17, 1977, in Rolling Prairie, he married Diane Hertzberg.

He is survived by two daughters, Chrystal Mary Young of South Bend and Jennifer Marie Hockman of Rolling Prairie; brother-in-law, Theodore (Mike) Hull; nine grandchildren, Damyen, Destiny, Jasmine, Serenity, Kwintyn, Adalynn, Savannah, Tristan, and Erik; and one sister, Tina Young-Scherb.

Kevin was preceded in death by his parents and one sister, Bonnie Hull.

A funeral service will be held Monday, June 9, at 1 p.m. at Essling Funeral Home, LaPorte, with Pastor Ransom Ebersole officiating. Visitation will be Sunday, June 8, from 2 to 5 p.m. Burial will be in Pine Lake Cemetery, LaPorte, following the service.

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

Carl A. Szawica, 63, of LaPorte, died June 1, 2014.

He was born March 28, 1951.

Carl was a graduate of Illinois State University with a bachelor’s degree in mass communications. He shared his lifelong passion for all genres of music with others beginning in his teenage years, playing and singing in a variety of bands, including country, rock and polka. He was an all-around entertainer. He played in the LaPorte City Band for several years and was a member of the American Federation of Musicians. He attended Sacred Heart Catholic Church. Carl was a bright light of joy in the lives of many with his humor and kindness; a conduit of family history and lore; a garage sale aficianado and collector of eccentricities. He was most fond of his Scrooge McDuck collection. Carl was also a very “punny” guy. Everyone he knew will miss his upbeat nature and robust laughter.

Carl is survived by his loving family, including two sisters, Claudia West of Cape Coral, FL, and Alice (Bill) Mathews of LaPorte; nieces and nephews, Carolyn Mathews, Daniel Mathews, Joseph Mathews, Laura Kendall, Thomas Mathews, Angela West, and Christopher West; and many extended family members and friends.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Rose (Wozniak) Szawica, and father, Stanley Szawica.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Friday, June 6, at 10 a.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, LaPorte. Visitation will be at Essling Funeral Home, LaPorte, on Thursday, June 5, from 4 to 7 p.m., with the rosary recited at 6:30 p.m. Burial will follow the Mass at Pine Lake Cemetery, LaPorte.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, 501 St. Jude Pl., Memphis, TN 38105.

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

Carol Ann (White) Pinda, 63, of LaPorte, died at 1:52 p.m. Sunday, June 1, 2014, at home surrounded by family.

She was born Sept. 28, 1950, in LaPorte to Robert O. and Norma J. (Hall) White.

Carol graduated from LaPorte High School in 1968. She and her husband, Bob, owned and operated Pinda Construction. She loved to read, especially science fiction. Carol was an amazing seamstress and sewed many items for family and friends. She loved to travel and had lived in Arizona, Florida, Georgia and California. She was a caring and compassionate person who placed the thoughts and feelings of others first.

She married the true love of her life, Bob Pinda, on Dec. 31, 1996. He survives.

She is also survived by her children, Andrea (Noel) Rahme of Durban, South Africa, and Kim and Kelley Kasprzyk, both of LaPorte; daughter Tammy Paxson-Manering of LaPorte; grandson Adam Manering; granddaughter Kaila Rahme; her parents; her siblings, Michael (Mary) White of Beavercreek, OH, and Barb (Joe) Kuharic of South Bend, IN; nieces, Stacey (Josh) Cline and Mollie White; and nephew, Joe Kuharic.

A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will take place at 3 p.m. Sunday, June 8, at Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center, LaPorte. Visitation will be Sunday from 2 p.m. until the service. A cremation committal has taken place.

Memorial contributionss may be made to the family of Carol Pinda c/o Bob Pinda, 2900 Monroe St., LaPorte, IN 46350.

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

Mr. David E. Thomas, 78, of LaPorte, died at 10:56 a.m. Thursday, May 22, 2014, at his home after a five-month illness.

He was born Aug. 13, 1935, in LaPorte to Joseph and Janice (Galbreth) Thomas and had lived in the LaPorte area his entire life.

David retired as a expeditor at Bethlehem Steel. He was a member of St. Paul Episcopal Church and a veteran of the U.S. Army Reserve.

On Aug. 6, 1960, in Hagerstown, MD, he married Suzanne (Healy) Thomas, who survives.

Also surviving are one son, Mark (Lhou) Thomas of Hollister, CA, and one daughter, Jennifer (Bryan) Schuiteman of Valparaiso, IN; four grandchildren, Courtney, Matthew, Collin and Mackenzie; and two sisters, Marcia Felton of Granger, IN, and Jane Brost of California.

He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Joseph Thomas.

A memorial service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, June 7, at Essling Funeral Home, LaPorte, with Father Thomas Kincaid officiating.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to VNA Hospice, 901 S. Woodland Ave., Michigan City, IN 46360.

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

Mr. Jerome “Gabby” Gabryszak Sr., 82, of LaPorte, died Tuesday, June 3, 2014, at his home.

He was born April 26, 1932, in Chicago to Joseph and Theresa (Mazurkiewicz) Gabryszak.

Jerome worked as a boilermaker for Union Local 1. He was a member of PNA and Gleaners, an assistant scoutmaster for Troop 750, and a past member of the Izaak Walton League. Jerome enjoyed building things with his hands.

On March 2, 1957, in Chicago, he married Josephine A. (Majewski) Gabryszak, who survives.

He is also survived by two sons, Jerome Gabryszak Jr. and John Gabryszak, both of Valparaiso, IN; daughter, Joann Gabryszak of LaPorte; and two grandchildren.

Jerome was preceded in death by his parents; son, James Gabryszak; brother, Joseph Gabryszak; and sister, Delores Perry.

The family will receive friends at Haverstock Funeral Home and Cremation Services, LaPorte, on Thursday, June 5, from 4 to 8 p.m. A graveside service will be held at St. John Kanty Catholic Cemetery, Rolling Prairie, on Friday, June 6, at 10 a.m. with Rev. Michael Heimer officiating.

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

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

Mrs. Rosemary Elizabeth Miller, 83, of LaPorte, died Tuesday, June 3, 2014, at Golden Living Center Fountainview, LaPorte, with her family by her side.

She was born Aug. 6, 1930, in Emporia, KS, to Clarence I. and Thelma E. (Cummingham) Slack.

Rosemary was a member of Salem Chapel United Methodist Church and the local Home Extension Clubs. She was a devoted mother, grandmother and great-grandmother; her family meant everything to her. She was a devout Christian and was very social and active in her church.

On Dec. 25, 1949, in Emporia, KS, she married Gene J. Miller, who preceded her in death Jan. 26, 2004. Rosemary and Gene celebrated 54 years of marriage in 2003.

Rosemary was also preceded in death by her parents and one sister, Geraldine Smith.

She is survived by four daughters, Debra (Craig) Kuta, Karen Rigler and Shari (Mike) Mullen, all of LaPorte, and Susan (Darrell) Kaiser of Union Mills, IN; one son, Terry (Linda) Miller of LaPorte; 14 grandchildren, Brett, Scott, Kevin Kaiser, Andrew, Jay, Lisa-Marie Mullen, Krista Saleet, Kayla Praschak, Dusty Koepke, Ryan Gene Miller, Matt Mrozinski, Amanda Peterson, David, and William Kuta; 12 great-grandchildren; sister-in-law, Bonnie Piech of South Bend, IN; three brothers-in-law, Charles Smith of Emporia, Jack Miller of LaPorte and Duane LeDoux of Boston, MA; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

The family will receive friends at Haverstock Funeral Home and Cremation Services, LaPorte, on Sunday, June 8, from 5 to 8 p.m. and Monday, June 9, from 10 to 11 a.m. A life celebration will be held Monday at 11 a.m. at the funeral home with Rev. Robert Raschka officiating. Interment will follow at Patton Cemetery, LaPorte.

Memorial contributions may be made to Salem Chapel United Methodist Church, 2802 E. Ind. 4, LaPorte, IN 46350; or American Diabetes Association, 30 N. Michigan Ave., Suite 2015, Chicago, IL 60602.

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

Mr. James L. Barkow, 68, of LaPorte, died Thursday, June 5, 2014, at IU Health LaPorte Hospital.

He was born June 26, 1945, in LaPorte to Dale A. and Bernice J. (Howell) Barkow.

Jim graduated from LaPorte High School and received his bachelor and master of music education degrees from VanderCook College of Music in Chicago. He was a band director in the Round Lake, IL, area schools and at VanderCook College of Music. While at VanderCook, he taught woodwinds and was instrumental in developing the jazz program. His professional playing experience included tenor saxophonist with the Stan Kenton Orchestra and The Les Elgart Orchestra. He was principal Bb clarinetist and principal alto saxophonist with the North Shore Concert Band of Wilmette, IL, for many years and played with other musical groups in the Chicago area. He had been a guest soloist and clinician with various schools and community bands. Jim was a saxophonist with the Tom Milo Big Band for 50 years, performing in Indiana, Illinois and Michigan. For many years he was a private woodwind instructor in Illinois and Indiana area schools and at Valparaiso University, including forming and directing clarinet and saxophone quartets. Jim’s Northern Indiana Saxophone Quartet, which he formed over 25 years ago, has been a perennial at LaPorte Fox Park summer concerts, as well as at many other concert venues. He was a member of the LaPorte and Michigan City Municipal Bands for years.

He leaves behind so many wonderful students who brought great joy to him as he saw them progress in their musical endeavors. He was passionate about teaching and loved seeing the students’ successes. Jim was thankful to God for the gift of music.

He was a devoted and loving husband, brother, uncle, brother-in-law, and friend. He loved and took in many orphaned animals, especially cats. He will be missed by so many wonderful people who crossed his path.

On Aug. 12, 1972, in LaPorte, he married Mary Kay (Gower) Barkow, who survives.

He is also survived by his brother, John (Judy) Barkow of Broomfield, CO; sister, Loralyn (George) Hayes of Plant City, FL; and several nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.

James was preceded in death by his parents

The family will receive friends at Haverstock Funeral Home and Cremation Services, LaPorte, on Tuesday, June 10, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. A life celebration will be held Tuesday at 1 p.m. at the funeral home with Rev. Jeff Zigler of First Church of God officiating. Interment will follow at Pine Lake Cemetery, LaPorte.

Memorial contributions may be made to the The Friends of Jim Barkow c/o Haverstock Funeral Home, or to the donor’s choice.

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

Alberta Ruth Hill Jones, 88, of LaPorte, died Thursday, June 5, 2014, at her daughter’s residence in Michigan City, IN.

She was born July 1, 1925, in Buchanan, MI, to William and Mollie (Juckett) Harradon.

Alberta had worked for 27 years at Kingsley Furniture in LaPorte, retiring in 1987. She was a member of Meer Road United Baptist Church. She enjoyed knitting, crocheting, gardening, baking and cooking. Alberta loved being with her family.

On June 11, 1994, in Michigan City, she married Chester Jones, who preceded her in death May 7, 2004.

In February 1949 in Westville, IN, she married Owen Hill, who preceded her in death in August 1987.

Alberta was also preceded in death by her parents; daughter, Pat Sims; and sister, Leona Meyer.

She is survived by four daughters, Florence Bush of Englewood, CO, Esther Piper of Lakewood, CO, Alberta Nicoles of Hermiston, OR, and Linda Clark of Michigan City; 14 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; numerous great-great-grandchildren; two sisters, Erma Miller of Tennessee and Charlotte Griner of Three Oaks, MI; and one brother, Franklin Harradon of South Bend, IN.

The family will receive friends at Haverstock Funeral Home and Cremation Services, LaPorte, on Sunday, June 8, from 6 to 8 p.m. and Monday, June 9, from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. A life celebration will be held Monday at 1:30 p.m. at the funeral home with Pastor Fred Miller officiating. Interment will follow at Swan Lake Mausoleum, Michigan City.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Family of Alberta R. Jones or Meer Road United Baptist Church.

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

Mr. Jeffrey Parkerson, 51, of LaPorte, died June 6, 2014, at his home after a two-year battle with leukemia.

He was born May 13, 1963, in Hammond, IN, to Bobbie and Constance (Gasvoda) Parkerson.

Jeff was an education coordinator/paramedic for LaPorte County EMS.

Jeff and Karen Adams were a loving couple for many years and married on July 20, 2012. She survives.

Also surviving are four children, Bryon (Amanda) Parkerson of Kingsford Heights, IN; Jessica (Josh) Fawley of Rochester, IN, Heather Macher of LaPorte and Kayla Macher of LaPorte; three grandchildren, Kollin, Kathan and Trey; his mother, Connie Parkerson of Kingman, AZ; his mother-in-law and father-in-law, Bob and Chris Adams of LaPorte; three brothers, Glenn (Marlene) Parkerson, Robert (Sue) Parkerson and Michael Parkerson; two sisters, Rhonda (Rick) Fuller and Jennifer (Bob) Baine; and several nieces and nephews.

A funeral service will be held Wednesday, June 11, at 11 a.m. at Essling Funeral Home, LaPorte, will Rev. Evan Lash officiating. Visitation will be Tuesday, June 10, from 3 to 8 p.m. and Wednesday from 10 a.m. until the service. Burial will be in Rolling Prairie Cemetery following the service.

Contributions may be made to the LaPorte Jaycees Deserving Children’s Shopping Tour, P.O. Box 35, LaPorte, IN 46352.

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

Charles Matthew “Matt” Allen, 30, of South Bend, IN, and formerly of LaPorte, died unexpectedly Friday, June 6, 2014, in his home.

He was born Jan. 30, 1984, in LaPorte to Charles M. and Carol A. (Wurm) Allen.

Matt was a former member of St. John’s Lutheran Church and former student at Saint John’s Lutheran School in LaPorte. He also attended LaPorte High School and as a freshman, he worked with disabled children at the YMCA. Matt formerly attended classes at the University of Nevada Las Vegas, where he was interested in computer science. He currently was working as an auto repair and maintenance tech at Paredes Motors in South Bend. Matt had a very good heart, a caring nature, and a true desire to help his friends.

Surviving are his parents; one child, Lily Allen of LaPorte; one sister, Dr. Lyndsay (Dr. Jeff) Klemens of LaPorte; one brother, Bryan (Amy) McCarty of LaPorte; two nephews, Riley and Ian McCarty; and several aunts and cousins.

Preceding him in death were his grandparents; Lena (Heichel) Wurm, Charles Edward Wurm, Elaine Allen-Wise and Forrest (Al) Allen; one aunt, Phyllis Louise Baker, and one uncle, Clifford Allen Baker.

A funeral celebrating his life will be held at 4 p.m. Wednesday, June 11, at Lakeview Funeral Home and Crematory, LaPorte, with Dr. Rod Nielsen officiating. Visitation will be Tuesday, June 10, from 5 to 8 p.m. and Wednesday from 2 p.m. until the service.

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

Sharon Wildfang, 55, of LaPorte, died peacefully at 7:45 a.m. Thursday, June 5, 2014, at Memorial Hospital of South Bend, IN.

She was born Dec. 29, 1958, in St. Joseph, MI, to Robert C. and Ruth S. (Nebelung) Martin.

Sharon was formerly a Girl Scout leader and a T-ball coach for the Rolling Prairie Puppies. She loved yard work and especially loved traveling to the mountains. She was a loving wife, mother and grandmother.

On Nov. 20, 1976, in LaPorte, she married John Wildfang, who survives.

Also surviving are two children, Pepper (John) Bridges and John (Kris) Wildfang Jr., both of LaPorte; six siblings, Scott and Bobby Martin, Jackie McGinty, and Claude (Vicky) Martin, all of LaPorte, Billy (Cindy) Kaiser of Holland, MI, and Chucky Martin of Baroda, MI; seven grandchildren, Diana, Andrew, Devin, Jennifer, Isaac, Autumn, and Charlotte; and several cousins, nieces and nephews.

Preceding her in death were her father and one sister, Connie Pease.

Cremation will take place. Lakeview Funeral Home and Crematory, LaPorte, is handling arrangements.

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

Mr. Stephen “Steve” Konieczny, 87, of LaPorte, died Sunday, June 8, 2014, at Settlers Place, LaPorte.

He was born Aug. 17, 1926, in LaPorte to Stephen and Marie (Cygan) Konieczny and was a lifelong resident of LaPorte.

Steve was a retired meat cutter, having worked at A&P and Al’s Supermarket, and had also been a custodian for Sacred Heart Catholic Church. Steve was a U.S. Army veteran of World War II. He was a member of Sacred Heart Holy Name Society, PRCU and PNA; former member of Knights of Columbus and 1st Ward Betterment Group, and a Sacred Heart Church lecturer, usher and choir member. He was an avid runner and a member of the Dunes Running Club. He also was a member of the Sacred Heart Food Pantry and Sacred Heart Parish Council.

On Sept. 24, 1949, in LaPorte, he married Mary Tamlin, who survives.

He is also survived by three daughters, Barbara (Robin) Wine, Sally Konieczny (Mike Kahn) and Ann (Bob) Konieczny, all of LaPorte; two sons, Paul (Dawn) Konieczny of Crown Point, IN, and John (Alison) Konieczny of Big Rapids, MI; several grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; one brother, Thomas (Irene) Konieczny; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one son, Mark Konieczny; one grandson, Kristopher Wine; and two brothers, Ted and Bob Konieczny.

A Memorial Mass will be held Thursday, June 12, at 9:30 a.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, LaPorte, with Rev. Ian Williams officiating. Visitation will be at Essling Funeral Home, LaPorte, on Wednesday, June 11, from 5 to 8 p.m. and Thursday from 8:30 to 9:15 a.m. The rosary will be recited Wednesday at 5:30 p.m. at the funeral home. Burial will be in St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery, LaPorte, on Thursday following the service.

Memorial contributions may be made to Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 130 Bach St., LaPorte, IN 46350.

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