Mr. Jack L. Williams, 65, of LaPorte, died Thursday, July 9, 2015, at his home.

He was born Feb. 8, 1950, in Forest Park, IL, to Clarence and Mildred (Thiesse) Williams.

Jack was self-employed at A&A Sheet Metal and was the owner of Prairie Ridge Farms for 30 years. He was a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church of LaPorte. Jack enjoyed gold prospecting and also loved fishing, cooking and traveling with his family.

He is survived by his four sons, Ben Williams, Jacob “Jake” Williams, Charlie Williams and Jonathon “Jon” Williams, all of LaPorte; daughter, Samantha “Sami” (Williams) de Fluiter of Walkerton, IN; stepson, Tod Lowery of LaPorte; two brothers, David Williams and Michael H. Williams, both of LaPorte; and two nephews, Michael Williams and Patrick Williams, both of LaPorte.

Jack was preceded in death by his parents.

There will be no visitation. A graveside service will be held at Springville Cemetery on Monday, July 13, at 10:30 a.m. with Rev. Dr. Joseph Loftis officiating. Interment will follow. Haverstock Funeral Home and Cremation Services, LaPorte, is handling arrangements.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. John Lutheran School, 111 Kingsbury Ave., LaPorte, IN 46350.

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

Bettye D. Niles, 90, of LaPorte, died July 9, 2015, at home.

She was born April 28, 1925, in Rockport, IN, to William and Katie (Young) Scherer and graduated from Rockport High School.

Bettye was a fantastic wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. She was a great cook and enjoyed sewing, making crafts, piecing quilts and reading. Bettye was always a good friend to others and was a member of First United Methodist Church in LaPorte. She liked to garden, and canned and froze her crops.

On Sept. 19, 1942, she married Ralph Niles, the love of her life. They were married for 42 years and had two children, Ralph Jr., now deceased, and Connie.

Bettye is survived by her daughter, Connie; her grandchildren, Tina Clowers and William (Carol) Niles; great-grandchildren, Brice Niles, Brandt Niles, Bethany Baumgartner and Travis Clowers; and great-great-grandchildren, Madelyn Farlie, Ethan Baumgartner and Lydia Byers.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, son and brother.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at Cutler Funeral Home And Cremation Center, LaPorte, at noon Wednesday, July 15, with Rev. JoEllyn Chadwick officiating. Family and friends will be received one hour prior to the service. Burial will follow at Pine Lake Cemetery, LaPorte.

Memorial contributions may be directed 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.cutlerfuneralhome.com.

Lillian Marie Benjamin, 85, of LaPorte, died July 11, 2015.

She was born Aug. 14, 1929, in Wayne County, IN, to Edward and Marie (Lyons) Johnson. She was the oldest of nine children: brothers, Edward R. Johnson, James Johnson, Donald Johnson, Perry Johnson; and sisters, Ruth Ann Toschlog, Jane Ellen Zuck, Mary Owens and Alice Boughner. She enjoyed caring for her younger siblings as the family grew. She graduated from Richmond High School and attended Purdue University, studying home economics.

On Aug. 26, 1950, she married Jules A. Benjamin, who survives. She worked in real estate, owning Benjamin Realty and working for LaPorte Realty and Century 21 while raising four children: daughters, Cynthia Bensinger (Lytle) of Carmel, IN, and Marie Gilliland (Edward) of LaPorte; and sons, Michael Benjamin (Sheryl) of Denver, CO, and David Benjamin (Linda) of Fort Myers, FL.

Lillian was a loving mother and wife. Her favorite hobby was spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, singing songs, reading books, playing games, and always cooking up their favorite foods. She also enjoyed playing cards with her husband and neighbors and friends. She was an avid reader and maintained her own home library. She enjoyed hosting her family each Sunday and was a great cook. Her grandchildren all enjoyed their special visits: Sarah Ford, Erin Ford, Eric Bensinger (Jacki), Sarah Bensinger, Katie Leach (Patrick), Jacob Benjamin, Alissa Doerner (David), Bart Clark, Cameron Clark, Jared Clark, Holly Linebaugh (Mac), Liz Antos (Kyle), Malorie Tonagel (Joel), and Jimmy Gilliland. She has 12 great-grandchildren and each is blessed to have known and loved her. She was active in Rosary Sodality events for many years at St. Anthony Catholic Church in Fish Lake, and the last 18 years attended mass at St. Joseph Catholic Church. She was president of the Community Concert Association for a number of years and supported its efforts to bring the joy of music to the community. She delivered for Meals on Wheels and volunteered in other community efforts. She was affectionately called “Fireball” by some family members for her feisty and strong character.

She was preceded in death by her parents; one brother, Edward R. Johnson, and her grandson, Cameron.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Saturday, July 18, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in LaPorte, where friends may visit from 9:30 a.m. until 10 a.m. Essling Funeral Home-Frank L. Keszei, director, is handling arrangements.

In lieu of flowers the family asks that contributions be made to St. Anthony Franciscan Hospice Community, St. Joseph Catholic Church, or St. Anthony Catholic Church.

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

Marjory L. Elliott, 82, of Kingsbury, IN, died Friday, July 10, 2015, at Carol’s Home Adult Foster Care in New Buffalo, MI.

She was born April 17, 1933, in Union Mills, IN, to Dale Sr. and Mary (Rickard) Wakeman.

Marjory had worked as a secretary at Kingsbury Ordnance Plant, a teacher’s aide at Kingsbury Elementary School and a home child-care provider. Marjory was a member of Tracy United Methodist Church. She enjoyed sewing.

On Sept. 2, 1951, in Kingsbury, she married Laddie L. Elliott, who preceded her in death Aug. 14, 2012.

She was also preceded in death by her parents; son, Gregory Elliott; grandson, Adam Candler; sisters, Muriel Haverstock and Bernadine Pallato; brother, Dale Wakeman; and her stepfather, Walter Casey, who raised her.

Marjory is survived by her three daughters, Jennifer (Jack) Dillard of Kingsbury, Carolyn Todd of Ft. Myers, FL, and Nanette (Dennis) Kamp of Rochester, IN; seven grandchildren, Casey and Cole Woods, Kyle Dillard, Ryan Ledgerwood, Gregory Elliott, and Austin and Ashley Candler; and seven great-grandchildren, Hayden, Landon, Camdon, Willow, Tinley, Remi, and Savannah.

Everyone is welcome to attend a graveside service at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, July 14, at Kingsbury Cemetery. Essling Funeral Home-Frank L. Keszei, director, LaPorte, is handling arrangements.

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

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

U. Frank Villines Jr., 76, of LaPorte, died Friday, July 10, 2015, at his home surrounded by his family.

He was born Dec. 28, 1938, in Evansville, IN, to Urial Sr. and Alice (Lawrence) Villines.

Frank retired from Whirlpool in 1996 after 40 years of dedicated service that began at the Evansville plant, where he got his start as a draft tech illustrator while attending Evansville North High School, from which he graduated in 1957. With opportunity for advancement into management at the Whirlpool LaPorte Parts and Distribution Center, Frank moved his family to LaPorte in 1960. His leadership and passion provided him many great memories along the way to becoming the Graphic Arts Division Manager. Frank’s passion for work and love of people and automobiles continued after his retirement when he worked as a Parts Delivery Clerk at Advance Auto in LaPorte. He was an avid fisherman, Chicago White Sox fan and nature enthusiast, loved bowling and had fun playing golf once a week with his golfing buddies. Frank could fix anything; nicknamed “MacGyver,” his children would bring neighborhood friends over for him to fix their toys. Frank felt blessed to have the opportunity to serve as a director at the LaPorte County Boys and Girls Juvenile Home in the early ’80s. He also loved to do woodworking and gardening while spending time with his son-in-law, Thomas, whom he thought of as his own. Frank was the best father, grandfather and great-grandfather and his wife, high school sweetheart, Kathy, was the love of his life.

On Dec. 13, 1958, in Shawneetown, IL, he married Kathy (Dorsey) Villines, who survives.

He is also survived by his two daughters, Melanie Colabella and Cynthia (Thomas) Ebert, both of LaPorte; honorary daughter, Michelle Comeaux Pudlo; four grandchildren, Emily Kaye Jorgenson, Shelby Lynne Colabella, Kathryn Elizabeth Colabella and Allyce Olivia Ebert; great-grandchild, Paisley Rae (Emily Kaye’s daughter); and three sisters, Emma Jane Ford of Evansville, IN, Nellie Faye Ours of New Harmony, IN, and Pamela Jean Wilson of Palm Coast, FL.

Frank was preceded in death by his four daughters, Elizabeth Dilloway, Julie Ann Villines, Susan Elaine Villines and Kathryn Alice Villines, and one brother, William F. Villines.

The family will receive friends at Haverstock Funeral Home and Cremation Services, LaPorte, on Wednesday, July 15, from 3 to 6 p.m. A life celebration will be held Wednesday at 6 p.m. at the funeral home with David Ford officiating. A private family burial of ashes in Pine Lake Cemetery, LaPorte, will be held at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to Harbor Light Hospice, 4330 Miami St., South Bend, IN 46614.

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

Flora Ella Kaler, 83, of Hamlet, IN, died Saturday, July 11, 2015, at IU Health LaPorte Hospital.

She was born Aug. 3, 1931, in Coalfield, TN, to Jim and Alta Mae (Carder) West.

Flora had worked for 10 years at McDonald’s restaurant, retiring in 2005. She was a member of Landmark Missionary Baptist Church in LaPorte. Flora loved spending time with her family, children and grandchildren.

On Sept. 11, 1954, in LaPorte, she married John Daniel Kaler, who preceded her in death Aug. 25, 2006.

Flora was also preceded in death by her parents and six brothers, Arthur, Jesse, Bill, James, Hobart, and Ray West.

She is survived by her five children, Patsy (Frank) Wiesner of Sun City, AZ, Paula Fowler of LaPorte, James (Lori) Kaler of Hamlet, Judy (Vern) Miller of Walkerton, IN, and Dwayne (Heather) Kaler of Eau Claire, MI; 10 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; one sister, Jeanette Cross of LaPorte; and two brothers, Martin (Emma) West of LaPorte and S.A. (Betty) West of Ohio.

The family will receive friends at Haverstock Funeral Home and Cremation Services, LaPorte, on Thursday, July 16, from 4 to 8 p.m. and Friday, July 17, from 9 to 10 a.m. A life celebration will be held Friday at 10 a.m. at the funeral home with Pastor Royce Ford officiating. Interment will follow at Pine Lake Cemetery, LaPorte.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Ronald McDonald House Charities, 26345 Network Place, Chicago, IL 60673-1263.

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

Charles “Chuck” R. Wallace, 81, of LaPorte, died at his home surrounded by his loving family on Wednesday, July 15, 2015.

He was born Sept. 25, 1933, in LaGrange, IN, to Clifford and Helen (Thornburg) Wallace.

Chuck was a farmer and retired from Sterling Express as a truck driver. He loved farming and loved watching the crops grow. Chuck also enjoyed antique tractors and watching “Da Bulls.” Most of all Chuck loved spending time with his family.

On Nov. 26, 1993, in Michigan City, IN, he married Doris J. (Collier) Wallace, who survives.

He is also survived by his three sons, Glenn (Kathy) Wallace, Michael Baskin and Thomas (Edwina) Baskin; three daughters, Debra Lynn Wallace, Patty (Randy) Morgan and Cheryl (Scott) Stanley; 11 grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; one sister, Elizabeth Britton; and his former wife, Janet Wallace.

Chuck was preceded in death by his parents and one son, Richard Wallace.

The family will receive friends at Haverstock Funeral Home and Cremation Services, LaPorte, on Saturday, July 18, from 10 to 11 a.m. A life celebration will be held Saturday at 11 a.m. at the funeral home with Pastor Carol Nordstrom 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.

Harold Eugene Russell, 75, of Rolling Prairie, IN, died unexpectedly at 8:08 p.m. Tuesday, June 30, 2015, at IU Health LaPorte Hospital.

He was born June 7, 1940, in LaPorte to Robert Adrian and Emily Jane Russell.

Harold was a train enthusiast, and enjoyed working for the Pennsylvania Railroad. He was an avid bicyclist and was a member of the Maple City Bicycling Club in LaPorte and the Rolling Prairie Lions Club.

Surviving are one son, Drew (Renee) Russell of Illinois; two siblings, Robert “Bob” Russell and Ruth Russell, both of Rolling Prairie; and several nieces and great-nieces.

Preceding him in death were his parents and one brother, James Russell.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, July 25, at Rolling Prairie United Methodist Church. Visitation will be at the church Saturday 10 a.m. until the service. Lakeview Funeral Home and Crematory, LaPorte, (219) is handling arrangements.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the Kankakee Township Fire Department, P.O. Box 214, Rolling Prairie, IN 46371.

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

Mrs. Matilda J. Snider, 78, of Hamlet, IN, died Friday, July 17, 2015, at Golden Living Center-Countryside in LaPorte.

She was born June 1, 1937, in Plymouth, IN, to Austin and Emma (Arentte) Pittman.

Matilda was a member of LaPorte Missionary Church. She enjoyed crafting, sewing, fishing and gardening.

In 1971 in Bremen, IN, she married Robert L. Snider, who preceded her in death in February 1997.

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

She is survived by her son, Kenneth A. Snider; two daughters, Patsy A. (David) Tibbs of LaPorte and Linda (Jim) Armstrong; and three grandchildren, Jeff Armstrong, Kevin Armstrong and Jimmy Armstrong.

The family will receive friends at Haverstock Funeral Home and Cremation Services, LaPorte, on Thursday, July 23, from 4 to 7 p.m. A life celebration will be held Thursday at 7 p.m. at the funeral home with Rev. Carl Galloway officiating. Interment will be private at the Tippy Cemetery.

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

Mr. Calvin E. Ultsch, 85, of LaPorte, died Monday, July 20, 2015, at Golden Living Fountainview in LaPorte.

He was born Jan. 17, 1930, in LaPorte to Emil George Ultsch and Mona (Duibakiewicz) Ultsch.

Calvin had worked for over 30 years as a bartender in LaPorte. He was a lifetime member of the VFW and bowled with the Senior Bowling League at Casey’s Lanes. Calvin proudly served our country in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. He loved traveling with his wife, Marjorie. He also loved spending time with his family and working jigsaw puzzles and puzzle books.

On May 2, 1959, in Three Oaks, MI, he married Marjorie A. (Zebell) Ultsch, who survives.

He is also survived by his son, Dale (Linda) Ultsch of South Bend, IN; two grandchildren, Brandon Ultsch and Nicole Ultsch; three step-grandchildren; and nine step-great-grandchildren.

Calvin was preceded in death by his parents; one daughter, Gayle Scarborough; one brother and two sisters.

There will be no visitation or services. Burial of ashes will take place in Patton Cemetery, LaPorte. 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.

William D. Sandefur Jr., 43, of LaPorte, formerly of Hammond, IN, died Monday, July 20, 2015, at his home following a courageous battle with cancer.

William was a 1990 graduate of Morton Sr. High School in Hammond. He had a love for sports, especially the White Sox, and coached little league.

On May 14, 2011, he married Jennifer L. Frazier, who survives.

Also surviving are his parents, Walter and Deborah L. (Patterson) Piech; four children, Patricia, Kindrick, Joshua and Decklan; granddaughter, Ari; grandmother, Pat Lopez; siblings, Kristi (Edward) Pomplun, Joshua Piech and Jeremy (Allison) Piech; nieces and nephews, Brett, Nathan, Alexander, Mason, Mackenzie, Kaitlyn, Cayden, Morgan, Kara, and Bridger; in-laws, William and Bobbie Frazier, William and Kim Frazier, and Zach and Jamie Ramsey; and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his grandpa, Thomas Patterson; great-grandma, Virginia Kotechi; grandpa, Jose Lopez; and uncle, Brian Patterson.

A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, July 25, at Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center, LaPorte, with Rev. Edward Hasnerl officiating. Visitation will be held Saturday from noon until the service. A cremation committal has taken place.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the family of William Sandefur c/o Jennifer Sandefur, 2900  Monroe St., LaPorte, IN 46350.

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

Teresa Amaya, 73, of Rolling Prairie, IN, died Friday, July 17, 2015, at IU Health LaPorte Hospital.

She was born in Durango, Mexico, on Aug. 27, 1941, to Francisco and Maria Isabel (Villa) Rocha.

On March 15, 1975, in Chicago, she married Timoteo Amaya, who survives.

Also surviving are her beloved children, Maria E. Amaya, Angelica Amaya, Timoteo Amaya, Deoselina Amaya, Francisco Amaya, Lazaro Amaya, and Maria I. Amaya, and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents and sons, Jorge Rocha and Seferino Amaya.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at noon Thursday, July 23, at Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center, LaPorte, with Father Eduardo Malagon officiating. Visitation will take place Wednesday, July 22, from 2 to 9 p.m. and Thursday from 10 a.m. until the service. Burial will follow the service at Patton Cemetery, LaPorte.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the family of Teresa Amaya c/o Timoteo Amaya, 2900 Monroe St., LaPorte, IN  46350, or to the charity of the donor’s choice.

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

Albert J. Lestinsky, 87, of LaPorte, died Tuesday, July 21, 2015, at his home.

He was born March 17, 1928, in Chicago to Albert and Karoline (Plany) Lestinsky.

Albert was a veteran, having served in the Korean War.

On Sept. 19, 1953, he married Audrey June Zook, who survives.

Albert is also survived by four sons, Pete (Deborah) Lestinsky, John (Lucy) Lestinsky, Tom Lestinsky and Carl (Sue) Lestinsky; one daughter, Mary (Dick) Shepperd; 10 grandchildren, Leslie, Dan, Jenna, Nicole, Nanette, Caroline, Emily, Katie, Samantha, and Paige; eight great-grandchildren, Evan, Luke, Evanna, Sarina, Olivia, Wyatt, Brooklyn, and Willow; and three sisters, Mildred (Jim) Soda, Ann Reed and Rose Phillips.

He was preceded in death by his parents; an infant daughter, Caroline; one brother, Steve Lestinsky; and his three sisters, Margaret Ward, Annette Paprocki and Caroline Mrozinske.

A funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, July 24, at Essling Funeral Home-Frank Keszei, director, LaPorte. Visitation will be held Thursday, July 23, from 5 to 8 p.m. and Friday from 9:30 a.m. until the service. Burial will follow the service at Patton Cemetery, LaPorte.

In lieu of flowers or contributions, Albert requested that you do a random act of kindness for a stranger.

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

Mary E. (Newkirk) Wheeler, 85, of LaPorte, died Tuesday, July 21, 2015, at IU Health LaPorte Hospital.

She was born Feb. 15, 1930, in Oblong, IL, to Albert F. and Cora (Bonham) Newkirk.

Mary was a bus driver for the LaPorte Community School Corporation and retired in 1998 after 31 years of service. She was a member of Calvary Baptist Church, LaPorte, and taught Sunday school for several years. Mary enjoyed reading and puzzles.

On Dec. 20, 1947, in Valparaiso, IN, she married Edsel C. Wheeler, who preceded her in death Nov. 4, 2007.

Also preceding her in death were her parents; two sisters, Norma Jean Vawter and Betty Hesser; and two brothers, Jesse Carl Newkirk and Arthur Newkirk.

Surviving are one son, Michael (Marcia) Wheeler of Rolling Prairie, IN; one daughter, Rosanna Wheeler of LaPorte; one granddaughter, Jennifer (John) Alexander; and two great-grandsons, Corbin and Carter.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at 6 p.m. Friday, July 24, at Lakeview Funeral Home and Crematory, LaPorte, with Pastor Jeff Hines officiating.  Visitation will be Friday from 3 p.m. until the service. Burial will be in Patton Cemetery, LaPorte, at a later date.

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

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

Dorothy Kathryn Herrold, 98, of Greencastle, IN, and formerly of LaPorte County, died Wednesday, July 21, 2015, at Asbury Towers in Greencastle.

She was born Oct. 24, 1916, in Terre Haute, IN, to Jesse D. and Lela (Barnett) McComb.

Dorothy graduated from Wiley High School in Terre Haute in 1933 and from Indiana State University in 1937 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Music and English. Dorothy came to Westville in 1937 to teach elementary and high school music as well as high school English grammar and literature until her marriage in 1942. Later, she taught for three years at Central Junior High School and three years at Park Elementary in LaPorte. She retired from teaching in 1963.

Following the death of her husband in 1966, she resumed her musical career as a professional pianist, specializing in Ragtime piano music. She became the first three-time championship title holder in competition at The National Old-Time Piano Players Contest in Champaign, IL, in 1977, 1978 and 1979. She appeared on national television on NBC-TV with Tom Snyder and performed on several radio stations, on two Caribbean cruise ships, and the “Love Boat” in Alaska, in addition to engagements throughout 41 states.

Dorothy was a member of First United Methodist Church; a 35-year member of the American Federation of Musicians; a member/representative of the American Federation of Teachers; 10-year member of the Swanson Activity Center for Senior Adults; and a member of the LaPorte County Republican Women’s Club, where she was selected “Woman of the Year.” She was awarded the Sagamore of the Wabash by Gov. Robert Orr in 1986 and she served as a Third District Delegate to three Republican National Conventions: in Dallas, TX, New Orleans, LA, and San Diego, CA, as well as two Presidential Inaugurations in Washington, D.C. Most recently, she became a Lions Club member. She was a charter member of The Hoosier Ragtime Society and The Classical Ragtime Society, both in Indianapolis, and a 55-year member of The Farm Bureau of Indiana. Mrs. Herrold served on every primary and every general election board without interruption for 52 years.

On June 7, 1942, she married Glen Alden Herrold, who preceded her in death on Dec. 28, 1966.

She was also preceded in death by her parents and sister, Helen Stecker.

Surviving are her beloved children, Richard Glen (Julianna) Herrold and Dr. Robert Earl (Anne) Herrold; two grandsons, Philip Herrold and Dr. Joseph (Dr. Stephanie) Herrold; one granddaughter, Dr. Amy (Dr. John McDade) Herrold-McDade; sister, Elizabeth Calvert; and five nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at Pinhook Church on Saturday, July 25, at noon with burial to follow at Pinhook Cemetery. Visitation will take place at the church Saturday from 11 a.m. until the service.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the Employee Gift Fund at Asbury Towers Retirement Community Inc., 102 West Poplar St., Greencastle, IN 46135, and First United Methodist Church, 1225 Michigan Ave., LaPorte, IN 46350.

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

Roger Krueger Barnhart, 83, of Valparaiso, IN, and formerly of New Carlisle, IN, died Wednesday, July 22, 2015, at Avalon Springs Health Campus.

He was born Jan. 1, 1932, in LaPorte to John Holt and Evelyn (Krueger) Barnhart.

Roger was a lifetime member of American Legion Post 297, and a member of the New Carlisle Fire Department for 32 years. He served honorably in the U.S. Air Force. Roger never met a stranger and will be missed my many. He was the founder and original owner of Barnhart Insurance Agency in New Carlisle, IN.

Surviving are his beloved wife, Patricia Barnhart of Valparaiso; daughters, Julie (Jim) Burke of LaPorte and Brenda Barnhart of Valparaiso; and granddaughter, Krystle Burke.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Ronald Barnhart; and grandson, Jimmy Burke.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 4 p.m. Friday, July 24, at Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center, LaPorte, with Pastor Foy of Prince of Peace Lutheran Church of Valparaiso officiating. Visitation will be Friday from 2 p.m. until the service. Interment will take place following the service at St. John Cemetery, LaPorte.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, 234 W. Division Rd., Valparaiso, IN 46385.

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

On July 23, 2015, Sherman B. Wise slipped away on the wings of a snow-white dove while holding the hand of his longtime special friend and companion, Lillian Norton. He was 84 and resided at Hudson Lake, IN.

He was born June 15, 1931, in Bristol, IN, to Ben F. and Edna (Dubbs) Wise. One of nine children, with three brothers and five sisters, he grew up appreciating the simple things in life. He worked hard, knew the value of a dollar, and belonged to the “waste not want not” club.  People meant more to Sherm than material things.

Sherm served his country honorably in the United States Army and was a decorated veteran of the Korean War. He served in the 45th Infantry, nicknamed the “Thunderbirds,” and was a Purple Heart recipient. He belonged to the American Legion and held life memberships with the VFW, AmVets and Disabled American Veterans. He was proud of his membership, took his obligations seriously and was honored this past summer for his many years of service and support by these organizations. He also belonged to the Moose and the Falcons.

In 1947 he married Marilyn Hart, who preceded him in death. They had three children: Sherman “JR’ Wise Jr.,  Douglas (Fina) Wise of Renton, WA, and Karen (Patrick) Imholt of Canby, OR. His children blessed him with  seven grandchildren, PJ Imholt, Mindy Imholt,  Maria Imholt, Felisha Imholt, Trevor Imholt, JeanMarie Wise, and Connor Wise.

In 1994 he married Elaine Allen Wise and for many years they owned and operated the Saugany Lake Tavern (Presently Nowhere Bar & Grill).  Sherm continued to be a part of Elaine’s family after her passing, and shared a bond of fondness with stepdaughter Laurie (Robert) DePaul, her daughter, Jaci Prentiss, and especially Darrin DePaul, who became his close buddy and helper.

He is also survived by sisters Idella (Andrew)  Sensenbaugh, Elva (Warren) Anglemeyer and Phyllis Colee, extended family and many neighbors and friends.

Sherm was preceded in death by his parents; one son, Sherman “JR” Wise Jr.; his brothers, Levi, Charles and Harold; and sisters, Pearl and Iva.

A Celebration Of Life Service will be held Thursday, July 30, at 10 a.m. at Cutler Funeral Home And Cremation Center, LaPorte, with Rev. Ron Devenport officiating. Visitation will be held Wednesday, July 29, from 4 to 8 p.m. and Thursday from 9 a.m. until the service. Burial with full military honors will follow the service at Westville Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be directed to VFW Post 88, 1519 W. Bristol St., Elkhart, IN 46514; or American Legion Post 344, Po Box 206, Galien, MI 49113.

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

Wesley Grant Cronkright, 78, of Hamlet, IN, died peacefully at 1:45 p.m. Thursday, July 23, 2015, in his home.

He was born Sept. 25, 1936, in Hammond, IN, to Lloyd and Obeline (Massicote) Cronkright.

Wesley was a member of First Southern Baptist Church of Gary. He worked at Nick’s Grocery for five years and at Kingsbury Locker Plant as a meat cutter. Wesley enjoyed computers, fishing, bowling at T-Bird’s with the men’s bowling league and mixed doubles at Quick’s, and traveling with his wife.

On June 4, 1960, in Gary, he married Martha (Hodge) Cronkright, who survives.

Also surviving are three nieces, Nancy Brady of Indianapolis, Lori Trimble of Gary and Nancy Jacobs of Crown Point, IN; nephews, Paul Mayer of Enfield, ME, Dick Mayer of Vancouver, Canada, Gerry and Warren Wollert, both of LaPorte, Randy Wollert of Westerville, OH, and David Wollert of Henderson, NV; sister-in-law, Mary Lambert of Gary; best friend, Warren Housinger of Lansing, IL; neighbors, Denis and Rita Kelly and Rick and Randy Mitchell, all of Hamlet; their families; and his pets, Molly, Sandi, and Suzi.

Preceding him in death were his parents; one brother, James Cronkright; three sisters, Marian Mayer, Esther Wollert and Ruth Getty; and one nephew, Rodger Wollert.

A memorial service will be held at a later date. 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.

Randy Lee Everly, 51, died unexpectedly Thursday, July 23, 2015, at Parkview Regional Medical Center, Fort Wayne, IN.

He was born Aug. 29, 1963, in LaPorte to LeRoy A. Everly and Carol (Wozniak) Freyer.

Randy was a truck driver for Sycamore Specialized Carriers, Fort Wayne. He had been a past member of the Springfield Volunteer Fire Department. Randy enjoyed mechanics and loved to work on his truck.

Surviving are his mother, Carol Freyer of Michigan City, IN; three brothers, Bryan (Kathy) Brownlee of LaPorte, Larry (Olga) Brownlee of Mill Creek, IN, and Tom (Mary) Freyer of Michigan City; three sisters, Cindy (Edward) Rick of Fort Wayne, Sheila Mendez of LaPorte and Dawn Brownlee of Lafayette, IN; his beloved cousin, Sandy Everly Dangerfield; and many cousins, nieces and nephews.

Preceding him in death were his father, LeRoy Everly, his paternal grandparents and his maternal grandparents.

A funeral celebrating his life will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, July 29, at Lakeview Funeral Home and Crematory, LaPorte, with Pastor Kim Allen Cole officiating. Visitation will be Tuesday, July 28, from 4 to 7 p.m. and Wednesday from 10 a.m. until the service. Burial will be in Patton Cemetery, LaPorte.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to the American Heart Association, 6100 W. 96th St., Suite 200, Indianapolis, IN 46278-6005, or www.americanheart.org.

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

Charles Emmett Wright, 80, died peacefully at 10 p.m. July 24, 2015, in his home.

He was born Feb. 27, 1935, in Michigan City, IN, to Charles N. and Harriett (Wise) Wright.

Charles retired as a superintendent of corrections at the Westville Maximum Control Complex. He was also the chief probation officer for LaPorte County for five years. In 1954, he dropped out of high school and joined the Army, where he received his GED certificate. Charles served three years in the military before returning to Michigan City. In 1958, he moved to Chicago and worked at the post office for 15 years. In 1974, he returned to Michigan City and enrolled at Purdue University North Central. Charles received his Bachelor of Science in supervision with an emphasis in personnel administration in 1980. Upon graduation, he began a 25-year career in the criminal justice field.

On March 22, 1977, in Michigan City, he married his soul mate, Carol (Heise) Wright, who survives.

Also surviving are his children, Adam (Meagan) Bluhm and Charles C.N. (Anita) Wright, both of LaPorte; one sister, Mary Jane Fisher of Anna, IL; one brother, Dr. W.D. (Reggie) Wright of Hamden, CT; eight grandchildren, Bradley, Mason, Neidra, Devin, Jayden, Connor, Berlin, and Kayden; his best friend, Wilbur (Mattie) Turner; and a host of cousins and other relatives.

Preceding him in death were his parents; one daughter, Courtney Wright; one brother, Jack Wright; and four sisters, Myrtis, Virginia, Harriet and Janice.

In accordance with his wishes, there will be no services. Cremation will take place. Lakeview Funeral Home and Crematory, LaPorte, is handling arrangements. Burial will take place at Swan Lake Memorial Gardens, Michigan City, 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.