H. King Barenthin, 75, of LaPorte, died peacefully at 7:35 a.m. Sunday, July 6, 2014, in his home.

He was born April 17, 1939, in Rock Island, IL, to Henry and Hilda (Lange) Barenthin.

King worked for Kingsley Furniture, LaPorte, as a furniture maker and upholsterer for nearly 40 years. He also worked for the House of Fara for nearly eight years. King was a member of the Moose Lodges in LaPorte and Michigan City and the Eagles Lodge in LaPorte. He had various hobbies such as golfing, bowling, water skiing, hunting and fishing. His children would describe him as a “master of all trades.” King never asked for anything from anyone.

On Aug. 31, 1974, in Kingsford Heights, IN, he married Serena “Sue” (Francis) Barenthin, who preceded him in death.

Also preceding him in death were his parents; sister, Carole Diane Barenthin; and great-granddaughter, Lindsey Barkow.

Surviving are five children, Garry “J.R.” (Patty) Ross of Michigan City, Jodi (Jeff) Barenthin-Barkow of Michigan City, Greg (Natalie) Barenthin of Sunbury, OH, James “Tony” (Diane) Barenthin of Rolling Prairie, IN, and Christopher (Kim) Barenthin of LaPorte; nine grandchildren, Josh, Jason, and Jessica Hibner, Alicia Kohler, Raea and Paige Barenthin, Hannah Barenthin, and Owen and Blake Barenthin; and eight great-grandchildren, Ryan Barkow, Chuckie, Kesler and Aubrey Kohler, Gersey and Karmin Hibner, and Damian and Lexis Hibner.

A memorial service celebrating his life will be held at 7 p.m. Monday, July 14, at Lakeview Funeral Home and Crematory, LaPorte, with Pastor Jack Balon officiating. Visitation will be Monday from 5 p.m. until the service.

Memorial contributions may be directed to VNA Homecare and Hospice, P.O. Box 250, LaPorte, IN 46352.

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

Joan Mercedes (Mandeville) Cameron, 82, of Fort Benton, MT, and formerly of Union Mills, IN, died July 6, 2014, in Great Falls, MT.

She was born Dec. 23, 1931, in Union Mills to Oliver and D. Elizabeth (Carpenter) Mandeville.

Joan worked as a caregiver for many years. She was baptized at Agape Christian Church in LaPorte and attended Community Baptist Church in Fort Benton, where she was a Sunday school teacher.

On Oct. 11, 2008, she married Raymond Cameron, who survives.

Also surviving are her beloved children, Peggy (Robert) Johnson of Hamlet, IN, and Barbara (Lloyd) Allard of Kingsford Heights, IN; four grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; five siblings, Gayle, Dan, Jean, Ann Elise, and Duane; and her Aunt Vi.

She was preceded in death by her parents and grandparents.

A graveside service will be held in her honor at Union Mills Cemetery on Friday, July 11, at 11:30 a.m. Visitation will be held at Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center, LaPorte, on Friday from 10 to 11 a.m.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the American Diabetes Association, 8604 Allisonville Rd., Suite 140, Indianapolis, IN 46250.

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

Mr. Waylen Tanksley, 68, of LaPorte, died Wednesday, July 9, 2014, at his home surrounded by his wife and granddaughters.

He was born July 19, 1945, in Moulton, Alabama, to Price and Lucy (Chaney) Tanksley.

Waylen worked as a machinist for Screw Machine Products for 33 years. Waylen loved the outdoors and woodworking. He was a neighborhood handyman; he liked to help anyone in need. Waylen was a good old country boy. He loved his family very much.

On Aug. 31, 1963, in LaPorte, he married Carol (Wood) Tanksley, who survives.

He is also survived by his five brothers, Irvin Tanksley of Fish Lake, IN, Dafford Tanksley, Alfred Tanksley and Alton Tanksley, all of Mill Creek, IN, and Junior Tanksley of North Liberty, IN; three sisters, Wanda Kinsey, Sarah Leach and Virginia Hohalek, all of Mill Creek; grandchild, Amanda Middleton; great-grandchild, Chloe Middleton; and several nieces and nephews.

Waylen was preceded in death by his parents; son, Roger Tanksley; and daughter, Lori Dubbs.

The family will receive friends at Haverstock Funeral Home and Cremation Services, LaPorte, on Sunday, July 13, from 2 to 5 p.m. and Monday, July 14, from 10 a.m. until the service. A life celebration will be held Monday, July 14, at 11 a.m. at the funeral home. Cremation will take place.

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, 130 Redcoach, Mishawaka, IN 46545; or the American Heart Association & American Stroke Association Midwest Affiliate Memorials and Tributes Lockbox, 3816 Paysphere Circle, Chicago, IL 60674.

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

Aaron Hembree III, 47, of LaPorte, died at 11:16 p.m. Wednesday, July 9, 2014, in Michigan City, IN.

He was born July 26, 1966, in LaPorte to Hubert and Mary (Kozlowski) Hembree and lived in the LaPorte area his entire life.

Aaron was an electrician for Meade Electric. He was a U.S. Marine veteran of Desert Storm and a member of IBEW No. 531.

He is survived by his mother, Mary Hembree of LaPorte; his father, Hubert (Linda) Hembree of Santa Claus, IN; one son, Aaron Hembree IV of Kingsbury, IN; one sister, Theresa Bumbalough of Carmel, IN; and several aunts, uncles and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents and one brother, Michael Hembree.

A funeral Mass will be held at 10 a.m. Monday, July 14, at St. Peter Catholic Church, LaPorte, with Rev. Joseph Angotti officiating. Visitation will be at Essling Funeral Home, LaPorte, on Sunday, July 13, from 3 to 6 p.m. and on Monday from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. A rosary service will be held Sunday at 5 p.m. at the funeral home with Deacon Chris Hawkins officiating. Burial will follow the mass in Pine Lake Cemetery, LaPorte.

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

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

Sandra A. “Nonnie” Thomas, 73, of LaPorte, died July 10, 2014, at IU Health LaPorte Hospital.

She was born April 13, 1941, in San Diego, CA, to William and Minnie Eaves.

Sandra loved her animals, especially her dog. She enjoyed helping others and spending time with her family.

She was married to Joe Thomas, who preceded her in death in 2002.

Her parents also preceded her in death.

Surviving are her beloved children, Theresa Davidson, Richard Bombin Jr. and Cynthia Bruckner; seven grandchildren, Crystal, Rebekah, Joshua, Kaethe, Kyle, Richie, and Mario; 15 great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren; sister, Gloria; brother, Louis; and stepsister, Bonnie.

A Celebration of Life Graveside Service will be held at 10 a.m. Monday, July 14, at Patton Cemetery, LaPorte.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the family of Sandra Thomas c/o Crystal Heuer, 2900 Monroe St., LaPorte, IN 46350.

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

James Hopper, 74, of Kingsford Heights, IN, died peacefully at 10:28 a.m. Friday, July 11, 2014, at his childhood home.

He was born May 3, 1940, in Wayland, KY, to Mack and Myrtle (Slone) Hopper.

James was a member of PRCU of LaPorte and American Legion Post 434 in Kingsford Heights. He was an avid golfer and poker player. He enjoyed karaoke and had a passion for woodworking and spending time with family and friends.

On June 25, 1960, at the LaPorte New Church, James married the love of his life, Phyllis J. Hopper, who preceded him in death on April 18, 2011.

Also preceding him in death were his parents; one sister, Biddie Lipscomb; and one brother, Charles E. Hopper.

He is survived by two daughters, Jane (Kevin) McFeaters of Kingsford Heights and Heidi (Pat) Potucek of LaPorte; one sister, Peggy Webb of Kingsford Heights; two sisters-in-law, Louise Hopper of Hanna, IN, and Sheila (John) Noveroske Sr. of LaPorte; four grandchildren, Ashley Moelich (fiancé Jon Sikorski) and Aaron Moelich, both of Kingsford Heights, and Paige and Mack Potucek of LaPorte; and two great-grandchildren, Isaac Sikorski and Jackson Moelich, both of Kingsford Heights.

A funeral celebrating his life will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, July 16, at Lakeview Funeral Home and Crematory, LaPorte, with Rev. Kit Billings officiating. Visitation will be Tuesday, July 15, from 5 to 8 p.m. and Wednesday from 10 a.m. until the service. Military services will be conducted by the LaPorte Honor Guard.

Memorial contributions may be made to American Legion Post 454, 500 Grayton Rd., Kingsford Heights, IN 46346; and National Kidney Foundation at www.kidney.org.

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

Paul Tibbs, 77, of LaPorte, died Wednesday, July 9, 2014, at IU Health LaPorte Hospital.

He was born Feb. 10, 1937, in LaPorte to Jesse and Dorothy Josephine (Day) Tibbs.

Paul retired from the United States Army after serving honorably from 1954-1975. He served throughout Europe and Asia and all across the United States. Upon returning to LaPorte in 1974, he became a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church, where he served faithfully for many years as an elder and always enjoyed helping with the fish fry dinners. Following his service as an elder, he continued to serve through visitation with members and shut-ins.

On Jan. 7, 1957, in Mannheim, Germany, he married Lilly Hacker, who preceded him in death Dec. 13, 2012.

He was also preceded in death by his parents and a granddaughter, Maggie Tibbs.

He is survived by five children, Frank (Afsaneh) Tibbs of Vienna, VA, Bettina (Eddie) Leslie of Gatesville, TX, Jesse Tibbs of LaPorte, Andrew (Teresa) Tibbs of Atlanta, GA, and Patrick (Shellie) Tibbs of Middlebury, IN; 10 grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and two siblings, Gene (Donna) Tibbs and Bonnie (Frank) Wilhelm.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at St. John’s Lutheran Church, LaPorte, on Thursday, July 17, at 10 a.m. with Pastor Ronald Brauer officiating. A graveside service will be held Friday, July 18, at 11 a.m. in Marion National Cemetery, Marion, IN. Visitation will be at Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center, LaPorte, on Wednesday, July 16, from 5 to 8 p.m. and on Thursday from 9 a.m. until the procession to the church.

Memorial contributions may be directed to The Salvation Army of LaPorte, 3240 Monroe St., LaPorte, IN 46350.

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

Mr. Howard J. Schroeder, 88, of Lowell, IN, died Saturday, July 12, 2014, at 1:55 p.m. at Franciscan St. Anthony Hospital, Crown Point, IN.

He was born Sept. 10, 1925, in LaPorte to Martin F. and Gertrude D. (Nebelung) Schroeder. He had lived in Lowell for 50 years, coming from Watertown, WI.

Howard was a former member of St. John Lutheran Church in LaPorte and was most recently a member of Trinity Lutheran Church, Lowell, IN.

Howard is survived by his sister, Dorothy Wolfe of Rolling Prairie, IN; two brothers, Ervin (Marguerite) Schroeder and Milton (Dolores) Schroeder, both of Rolling Prairie; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; five brothers, Martin, Robert, Harold, Charles and Wesley; and sister-in-law, Lois Schroeder.

A funeral service will be held Wednesday, July 16, at 11 a.m. at St. John Lutheran Church, LaPorte, with Rev. Ron Brauer officiating. Visitation will be at the church Wednesday from 9 to 11 a.m. Burial will be in St. John Lutheran Cemetery, LaPorte, following the service. Essling Funeral Home, LaPorte, is handling arrangements.

Memorial Contributions may be made to Bethesda Lutheran Home, 110 Nichlous St., Lowell, IN 46356.

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

John Marshall, 87, of LaPorte, went to be with his loving Savior on July 15, 2014, at IU Health LaPorte Hospital.

He was born Oct. 7, 1926, in Gary, IN, to Joseph and Frances (Supanik) Marshall.

John was a 1944 graduate of LaPorte High School. He went on to serve his country honorably during World War II in the United States Army. He was past president of the LaPorte Oldtimers Baseball Organization, and was a member of many organizations including PRCU and LPHS Football Hall of Fame. John retired from Whirlpool Corporation and was a lifelong member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church. John was a loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He loved his family, especially playing ball and spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

On June 9, 1951, in LaPorte, he married Elizabeth (Scharf) Marshall, who survives.

Also surviving are his beloved children, Sandra Huffman of LaPorte, Barbara (Kenneth) Kraus of LaPorte, Patricia Marshall of Indianapolis and John (Stacy) Marshall of LaPorte; grandchildren, Amanda (Benjamin) Schneider of Honolulu, Hawaii, Mary Elizabeth Huffman of LaPorte, Sara Kraus of Valparaiso, IN, Kathryn (Charles) Vander Stelt of Valparaiso, Cory Kraus of LaPorte, Taylor Baucom of LaPorte, Brooke Baucom of LaPorte, and Caden Marshall of LaPorte; great-grandchildren, Nathan, Andrew and Samantha Schneider of Honolulu; and sister, Mary Ann Peglow of Jensen Beach, FL.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Irene (Grover) Smith of Elkhart, IN.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, July 18, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, LaPorte, with Father Ian Williams officiating. Visitation will be held at Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center, LaPorte, on Thursday, July 17, from 3 to 8 p.m. and on Friday from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. A prayer service will be held at 6 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home. Burial will take place at Pine Lake Cemetery, LaPorte, with full military honors.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the LaPorte High School Athletic Department, 602 F St., LaPorte, IN 46350; or Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 128 Bach St., LaPorte, IN 46350.

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

Mrs. Treva McCullough, 82, of LaPorte, died Wednesday, July 16, 2014, at her home.

She was born July 17, 1931, in Decoy, KY, to Green and Ella (Stacy) Trusty. She had lived in the LaPorte area since 1951, coming from Knox, IN. She came to Indiana from Kentucky when she was 18 years old.

Treva served as a home caregiver for 28 years. She was a member of the Ladies Auxiliary of VFW Post 9423 in Rolling Prairie, IN. Treva was an avid gardener.

On Aug. 15, 1951, in Knox, she married Melvin McCullough Sr., who preceded her in death May 16, 1981.

Treva was also preceded in death by her parents; two sisters, Ellen Rose and Nokie Trusty; and one brother, Okie M. Trusty.

She is survived by her two sons, Melvin McCullough Jr. of Alexandria, VA, and Alvin McCullough of Tipton, IN; two daughters, Linda McCullough and Brenda McCullough, both of LaPorte; three grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; five sisters, Thelma Smith of North Judson, IN, Eva Howard of Denim, IN, Evelyn Trusty of North Judson, IN, Sarah Bailey of Merrillville, IN, and Lonnie Allen of Jackson, KY; and three brothers, Odis Trusty of Decoy, Blaine Trusty of Jackson and Arthur Trusty of Decoy.

The family will receive friends at Haverstock Funeral Home and Cremation Services, LaPorte, on Friday, July 18, from 4 to 8 p.m. and on Saturday, July 19, from 10 to 11 a.m. A life celebration will be held Saturday at 11 a.m. at the funeral home with Pastor Jo Ellyn Chadwick officiating. Interment will follow at Patton Cemetery, LaPorte.

Memorial contributions may be made to First United Methodist Church, 1225 Michigan Ave., LaPorte, IN 46350.

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

Richard Dean Kratz, 86, of Rolling Prairie, IN, died July 15, 2014, at his home.

He was born July 10, 1928, in New Carlisle, IN, to Fredrick and Katherine Marie (Zugel) Kratz.

Richard was a U.S. Navy veteran, having served his country honorably from 1948-1952. He was a member of American Legion Post 297, serving as post commander from 1957-1958.

On April 23, 1953, in LaPorte, he married Phyllis J. (Wellinski) Kratz, who preceded him in death on May 9, 2014.

Surviving are his children, Kristine Marie Bodie and Richard F. Kratz, both of LaPorte; two sisters, Katherine Blasko of South Bend, IN, and Margretie Williams of Mishawaka, IN; and one brother, Kenneth Kratz of Hudson Lake, IN.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 3 p.m. Saturday, July 19, at Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center, LaPorte. Visitation will be Saturday from 1 p.m. until the service. Burial with full military honors will follow the service at New Carlisle Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the family of Richard Kratz, c/o Kristine Bodie, 2900 Monroe St., LaPorte, IN 46350.

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

Mr. Dale E. Ellis, 84, of Hamlet, IN, died Tuesday, July 15, 2014, at IU Health LaPorte Hospital.

He was born April 7, 1930, in Union Mills, IN, to John Burr Ellis and Lola (Stinchcomb) Ellis.

Dale had worked as an assembler for Allis-Chalmers in LaPorte, and had also been employed as an HVAC engineer with Control’d Engineering before establishing Ellis Ceramic Supply in Hamlet. Dale was a member of Tracy United Methodist Church.

Dale met the love of his life, Rita Pratt, in high school and they were married Aug. 26, 1949, in Hamlet. This August marks the 65th anniversary of that beautiful day. She survives.

He is also survived by five sons, David D. (Beth) Ellis of Naperville, IL, Donald E. (Mildred) Ellis of Medaryville, IN, Daniel R. (Peggi) Ellis of Downers Grove, IL, William L. (Roxanne) Ellis of Fish Lake, IN, and Scott A. Ellis of Joliet, IL; 12 grandchildren, Julie Ellis, Michael (Nicole) Ellis, Paul (Stephanie) Ellis, Steve (Paige) Ellis, Laura (Andrew) Freeman, Colleen (Zackery) Crandall, Mathew Ellis, Eric Ellis, John Ellis, Rachel (Eric) Murray, Denice Woolwine, and Toni Ellis; 17 great-grandchildren, Kelly, Anthony, Isabella, Nicolas, Kylie, Harrison, Alana, Spencer, Hunter, Cooper, and Charlotte Ellis, Drayke and Dexter Dirck, Lillian, Elliott and Benjamin Freeman, and Camden Murray; and brother-in-law, Ralph Schoof of Union Mills.

Dale was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters, Charline Davis and Mary Annette Schoof; and three brothers, Winston, Charles and Rodney Ellis.

The family will receive friends at Haverstock Funeral Home and Cremation Services, LaPorte, on Friday, July 18, from 5 to 9 p.m. and Saturday, July 19, from 1 to 2 p.m. A life celebration will be held Saturday at 2 p.m. at the funeral home with Pastor Ann Dill officiating. Interment will follow at Kingsbury Cemetery, Kingsbury, IN.

Memorial contributions may be made to Tracy United Methodist Church, 1702 U.S. 6 & 35, Hamlet, IN 46532.

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

Mr. Edward M. “Bumps” Satkoski, 76, of Westville, IN, died Wednesday, July 16, 2014, at 5:55 a.m. at his home.

He was born Jan. 25, 1938, in LaPorte to Edward T. and Frances A. (Napierala) Satkoski and had lived here his entire life.

Mr. Satkoski retired from the Levy Company as a heavy-equipment operator, and was also a farmer. He was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church and enjoyed traveling every winter to California and the Northwest. He was a loving husband, father and grandfather to his four grandsons.

On May 25, 1963 in Crown Point, IN, he married Carol L. Drinski, who survives.

He is also survived by two daughters, Jacqueline (Mark) Bailey of Martinsville, IN, and Sharon (Dan) Younggreen of Hanna, IN; four grandchildren, Justin and Jeremy Bailey and Ryan and Brandon Younggreen; two brothers, Robert (Donna) Satkoski of LaPorte and John (Sue) Satkoski of Union Mills, IN; sister-in-law, Ellen Satkoski of San Marcos, CA; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Fred Satkoski.

A funeral Mass will be held Monday, July 21, at 11 a.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church, LaPorte, with Rev. Eduardo Malagon officiating. Visitation will be at Essling Funeral Home, LaPorte, on Sunday, July 20, from 3 to 7 p.m. and on Monday from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. A prayer service will be held Sunday at 6 p.m. at the funeral home. Burial will follow the service at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery, LaPorte.

Memorial contributions may be made to LaPorte VNA Hospice, 1007 Lincolnway, LaPorte, IN 46350.

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

Delores M. Henoch, 89, of LaPorte, died July 16, 2014, at LaPorte Miller’s Health and Rehab.

She was born April 29, 1925, in LaPorte to Ernest Nelson and Laura Elsie (Eisenminger) Vermilyer.

Delores was a member of St. Ann’s Guild, Town and Country Extension Club and the Swanson Senior Center. She enjoyed her family, knitting and baking.

On March 18, 1944, she married Richard Leonard Henoch, who preceded her in death.

She was also preceded in death by her parents; son, Paul R. Henoch; and her granddaughter, Lisa Marie Henoch.

Surviving are her beloved son, James Henoch of LaPorte; granddaughter, Lori (Jerry) Hamlin of LaPorte; sister, Phyllis Miller of LaPorte; brother, Eugene (Anna) Vermilyer of Fish Lake, IN; sister-in-law, Mary Louise Smith of Irvine, CA; and many nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 10 a.m. Monday, July 21, at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church with Father Thomas Kincaid officiating. Visitation will be at Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center, LaPorte, on Sunday, July 20, from 3 to 6 p.m. and at the church on Monday from 9 a.m. until the service. Burial will take place following the service at Pine Lake Cemetery, LaPorte.

Memorial contributions may be directed to 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.

Marilyn K. Spreeman, 59, of LaPorte, died Thursday, July 17, 2014, at IU Health LaPorte Hospital.

She was born Dec. 7, 1954, in Chicago to Virgil M. and Dorothy (Bultman) Spreeman.

Marilyn was a member of St. John Lutheran Church, where she volunteered, helping label the monthly newsletter and stuffing bulletins. Marilyn loved The Lettermen and the Chicago Blackhawks; her favorite player was Keith Magnuson. She also loved her Aunt Louise’s and niece Keri’s chocolate chip cookies. Marilyn had a Barbie Doll collection and enjoyed “Wheel of Fortune” and “Jeopardy.” She enjoyed reading on the deck, and she had a cat named Kelly for 20 years.

She is survived by her mother, Dorothy Spreeman of LaPorte; two brothers, Russell (Janet) Spreeman of LaPorte and Steven (Susan) Spreeman of Plainfield, IL; one niece, Keri Spreeman; three nephews, Carson, Brian and Jonathan Spreeman; four great-nephews, T.J. DeHerrera and Nickolas, Benjamin and William Spreeman; and two great-nieces, Sara and Maddie Spreeman.

Marilyn was preceded in death by her father and grandparents.

The family will receive friends at Haverstock Funeral Home and Cremation Services, LaPorte, on Sunday, July 20, from 2 to 5 p.m. and at St. John Lutheran Church, LaPorte, on Monday, July 21, from 10 to 11 a.m. A life celebration will be held Monday at 11 a.m. at the church with Rev. Ronald A. Brauer officiating. Cremation will follow.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. John Lutheran Church, 111 Kingsbury Ave., LaPorte, IN 46350; or to the Family of Marilyn K. Spreeman.

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

Mr. Bert S. Stopczynski, 92, of New Carlisle, IN, died July 18, 2014, at 1:38 p.m. at Golden Living Center, LaPorte.

He was born Jan. 12, 1922, in New Carlisle to Enoch and Lottie (Leda) Stopczynski. He lived his entire life in New Carlisle.

Bert was a self-employed farmer. He attended St. John Kanty Catholic Church and was a member of its Men’s Society. He enjoyed auctions, trips to the casino, and visiting with his friends and family.

After his parents and sister, Elsie, were killed in a car/train accident, Bert assumed guardianship of his siblings and with the help of his sister, Irene, raised the family.

On Oct. 16, 1954, in Rolling Prairie, IN, he married Genevieve Bladecki, who preceded him in death on Dec. 21, 2002.

Besides his wife, parents and sister Elsie, he was also preceded in death by one brother, Joseph Stopczynski.

He is survived by his sister, Irene Sienicki of South Bend, IN; three brothers, Enoch “Doc” (Marilyn) Stopczynski of Koontz Lake, IN, and Stanley Stopczynski and Ben Stopczynski, both of South Bend; and several nieces and nephews.

A funeral Mass will be held at St. John Kanty Catholic Church, Rolling Prairie, on Wednesday, July 23, at 10 a.m. with Father Michael Heimer officiating. Visitation will be at Essling Funeral Home, LaPorte, on Tuesday, July 22, from 4 to 7 p.m. The rosary will be recited Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. at the funeral home. Burial will follow the service at St. Joseph Cemetery, South Bend.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. John Kanty Church, 7012 N. 600 East, Rolling Prairie, IN 46371.

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

Natasha Adrien Witkowski, 44, of Michigan City, IN, died peacefully at 10:35 a.m. Thursday, July 17, 2014, in her home with her parents by her side. She was one of God’s angels on earth and with her work done, has been called back to God, who needs her by his side now.

She was born May 6, 1970, in Michigan City to Gregory and Patricia (Robison) Witkowski.

Natasha attended Texas Lions Camp for the visually handicapped in Kerrville, TX, was the ambassador child for the Neurofibromatosis Foundation of Texas from 1985-1986, and attended many functions sponsored by the Neurofibromatosis Foundation and the NFL Alumni Association. She graduated from Magnolia, Arkansas, High School and worked at Abilities Unlimited in Magnolia. She also attended the Social and Learning Institute School for handicapped adults in Michigan City and enjoyed many camps at Sharing Meadows in Rolling Prairie, IN. She did crafts, making coasters for family and friends; enjoyed music and movies, and was an animal lover. Natasha really loved spending time with her nieces and nephews. Natasha touched many lives with her courage, determination and beautiful smile.

A special thanks to her caregivers, Paula, Erin and Lynn of Hospice, for their considerate care.

Surviving are her parents; three sisters, Colette (Robert) Witkowski-Jonas, Tanya (Richard) Tallerine and Bianca (Rachael) Witkowski; three brothers, Xavier (Icela) Witkowski, Ambrose (Karen) Witkowski and Zachary ( Rachel) Witkowski; and 14 nieces and nephews, Samantha, Garrett, Ashley, Dylan, Grace, Tyler, McKenzie, Regan, Madison, Taylor, Adam, Oliver, and the twins Elise and Ziva, who were born on Natasha’s birthday this year.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, July 25, at Queen of All Saints Catholic Church, 606 S. Woodland Ave., Michigan City, with Rev. Kevin Huber and Rev. Dennis Blaney officiating. Visitation will be at Lakeview Funeral Home and Crematory, LaPorte, on Thursday, July 24, from 5 to 8 p.m. and at the church on Friday from 9 a.m. until the service. A prayer service will be held at 6 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be sent to the Social and Learning Institute, 201 E. Garfield St., Michigan City, IN 46360; or the Share Foundation, P.O. Box 400, Rolling Prairie, IN 46371.

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

Robert Earl “Bob” Bye, 80, of Hanna and Union Mills, IN, died suddenly Thursday, July 17, 2014, at IU Health LaPorte Hospital.

He was born May 23, 1934, in LaPorte to Clayton and Elva (Kemp) Bye.

Bob was raised in Kingsbury, IN, and worked alongside his parents in running his grandfather’s office supply store, C.E. Kemp and Co. in LaPorte. He attended Purdue University, studying agriculture, and after his time there he served in the U.S. Army as a sergeant in the Armored Tanks Division throughout Europe. Upon his return home, he and his father, Clayton, established the Bye ‘Mor School Supply Company in Kingsbury, and serviced schools in all of northern Indiana and parts of Chicago. In 1979, Bob retired from Bye ‘Mor, but continued running Bye ’n Bye Farm in Union Mills and Hanna. Bob was an avid livestock manager and horseman throughout his life, gaining several national titles with his shorthorn beef cattle in the 1960s and ’70s. Later, with his daughter Joy, he would go on to own and show some of the top Quarter Horses in the country, winning top honors at such prestigious events as the Canadian Nationals, the Dixie Nationals, the All American Quarter Horse Congress, and the AQHA World Championships throughout the late 1980s and ’90s. Besides his work and his love of animals, Bob was a voracious reader, poring through no less than five books a week his entire adult life. He loved a good 7&7 highball, talking politics, eating at his favorite diners and dives, and, most of all, teaching his children, and then grandchildren to fight the good fight. He was an active contributor to the Southern Poverty Law Center, Planned Parenthood, and numerous veterans’ rights groups. He was an ardent supporter of social justice and equality, and spoke about his feelings to anyone who would listen; often that was the unsuspecting person standing in line behind him or sitting across the bar. His family will miss his long-winded tirades about the state of affairs in Washington and his much beloved Chicago Bears. They will also miss his unyielding support, kindness and love, which he served in large portions to everyone. We will miss you, Papa.

On Nov. 30, 1974, in LaPorte, he married Dianna (Hale) Bye, who survives.

Also surviving are three children, Robann (Wendell) Porter of Alpine, UT, Brad (Jennifer) Bye of LaPorte and Joy (Andrew) Bye-Zeilbeck of LaPorte; and five grandchildren, Danni Porter, Talmage Porter, Bobbi Porter, Kate Bye and Zoe Bye Zeilbeck. He also leaves behind his best friend, David Nelson, of Woodlawn, CA, and his beloved border collie, Jack.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Joann (Sigler) Bye, and his parents.

A memorial service and family calling hour will be held at Bethany Lutheran Church, 102 G St., LaPorte, beginning at 1 p.m. Saturday, July 26, followed by interment at Union Mills Cemetery. Lakeview Funeral Home and Crematory, LaPorte, is handling arrangements.

In lieu of flowers or donations to the family, the family is asking that memorial contributions be made to the Wounded Warrior Project at www.woundedwarriorproject.org.

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

Blanche “Joyce” Parrish, 88, of LaPorte, died peacefully at 10:14 p.m. Sunday, July 20, 2014, in her home.

She was born July 17, 1926, in Eaton Rapids, MI, to Leonard and Blanche (Terrill) Prosser.

Joyce retired in 1988 after 18 years of service as a production inspector for Gelman Sciences, Ann Arbor, MI. She was a loving homemaker who enjoyed interior decorating, gardening, shopping and reading. Joyce loved playing with the dogs that belonged to her neighbors, JoAnn and Gary Gedman.

On March 8, 1957, in Jackson, MI, she married Stanley A. Parrish, who preceded her in death.

Also preceding her in death were her parents and one brother, Douglas Prosser.

Surviving are one stepson, Brian Parrish of Warsaw, IN; two grandchildren, Adam Scott and Jacob Brian Parrish; four great-grandchildren; and former daughter-in-law, Linda C. Parrish, who was like a daughter to Joyce. The family wishes to give a special thank you to JoAnn and Gary Gedman.

A memorial service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Sunday, Aug. 3, at Fellowship Baptist Church, Westville, IN, with Pastor Mark Smith officiating. A luncheon will immediately follow the service. Cremation will take place. Lakeview Funeral Home and Crematory, LaPorte, is handling arrangements.

Memorial contributions may be made to Fellowship Baptist Church, 453 W. Main St., Westville, IN 46391.

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

Ellen A. Kermin, 88, of LaPorte, died Tuesday, July 22, 2014.

She was born April 7, 1926, in Escanaba, MI, to Ross and Hilda (Wanstrath) Gosnell; she lived in the LaPorte area for 68 years.

Ellen was a bookkeeper for Lenick’s Dairy in LaPorte for over 20 years. She was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, the Rosary Sodality and St. Cecelia Circle.

On Sept. 26, 1946, in Michigan City, IN, she married William Kermin, who preceded her in death.

She was also preceded in death by her parents, four brothers and three sisters.

She is survived by four daughters, Kathleen (Steve Wood) Arthur, Patricia Kermin, Sandra (Kent) Reglein and Connie (Tim) Ledgerwood; five grandchildren, David, Arron, Peter, Patricia and Carrie; two brothers, George and David Gosnell; and two sisters, Elizabeth Ahlers and Marylee Potts.

A funeral Mass will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, July 26, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, LaPorte, with Rev. David Gosnell and Rev. Eduardo Malagon officiating. Visitation will be at the church Saturday from 9 to 10 a.m. Burial will be in St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery, LaPorte. Essling Funeral Home, LaPorte, is handling arrangements.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Joseph Catholic Church, 109 C St., LaPorte, IN 46350.

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