Albert “Al” Franklin Davis Jr., aka Banana Bread Man, 90, of LaPorte and formerly of Florida, died peacefully at 5:49 p.m. Friday, Dec. 30, 2016, of Mesothelioma in his home under hospice care, in the presence of his loving and devotedly caring family.

Beloved husband of Barbara Karan Davis, loving father of William Frederick (Brandi) Davis, uncle to Susan (Edward) Karan Nemie, whom he loved like a daughter, and a devoted grandfather to Hannah Rose and Jacob Ryan Davis.

On Nov. 2, 1926, he was born to Albert F. and Mildred Agnes (Adams) Davis.

Albert was a 26 1/2-year Veteran of the United States Navy Seabees. He enlisted at age 17 on Feb. 2, 1944, and saw combat in World War II, Korea, and two tours of duty in Vietnam. One of Al’s most memorable recollections was that in July 1950, he was assigned to the U.S. Naval Shipyard in New York to be on the commissioning detail of the USS Oriskany (CV34). After a thorough job of remodeling and modernizing, she sailed out of port Sept. 25, 1950, as the Navy’s newest and greatest ship, the pride of the fleet. Al served aboard the USS Oriskany from 1950 to February 1953, and was aboard ship when it sailed to Korea to aid in the Korean Conflict. Another memorable moment was two tours of duty from 1966 to 1968 assigned with USN MCB6. They were assigned to Chu Lai, Republic of Vietnam, and then to Tam Key, Republic of Vietnam, where he received the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with Bronze Star, the Fleet Marine Force Combat Operations Insignia and the Expert Rifleman Medal.

When Al’s second tour ended, he returned to the States and met and later married his wife Barbara on Aug. 1, 1969, in Elizabeth City, NC. They celebrated 47 years of marriage in August 2016. Their only child, William, was born July 8, 1970, in Norfolk, VA. He left the U.S. Navy March 31, 1971, and joined the U.S. Navy Reserves until his retirement Feb. 1, 1978. The family moved to St. Petersburg, FL.

Around 1984, Al started baking banana nut bread and took it to MacDill Air Force Base, Tampa, FL, the home of Central Command. When Operation Enduring Freedom started, Al made arrangements with the military to bake and freeze his homemade banana nut bread and deliver it to the military to ship with medical supplies over to Saudi Arabia and other overseas locations. After the 9/11 attack in New York City, Al and his wife started to bake longer hours and delivered more bread to MacDill to give it to the Generals and their Officers and Aides from various countries overseas who set up their individual Embassies, called the “Coalition Village,” in the CENTCOM parking lot to help the United States fight the war on terror. Al received permission to give all these foreign government officials his bread, and this became a “Goodwill Ambassador” position for the base. He met General Tommy Franks, 4-star General of CENTCOM, Feb. 25, 2002, and the General told FOX NEWS on his daily update on Enduring Freedom about Al and his wife bringing bread to the Coalition Village. Within two hours, Al and his wife had every TV station and newspaper reporter in the area in their home that night. From there, “Good Morning America” called and scheduled them on their show in New York, March 6, 2002, along with guest star Sir Ian McKellan (“Lord of the Rings”). (To this date, their Banana Bread recipe is still on ABC’s “Good Morning America” website.) From then Al became President of “Banana Bread for the Troops” and opened a 501c3 non-profit organization in May 2003.

The Davises received letters from President George Bush, local members of Congress and Senators.  Governor Jeb Bush of Florida presented Al with Florida’s “Points of Light” award; the U.S. Quartermaster Corps flew Al and his wife to Fort Lee, VA, and made them both Honorary Quartermasters, placed them on their Honor Roll in their Museum, and placed a Paver stone presented by the Quartermaster Class of 2003 with their names on the pathway to the museum in their honor. Al was presented with the “Distinguished Order of St. Martin” title and medal, the highest honor a civilian can receive from the Quartermaster Corps.

Al was also active in many fraternal orders, to which he contributed thousands of hours of volunteer service to the communities where he lived, including Past Grand Counselor of The United Commercial Travelers of America; F&AM Mason, 32nd Degree Scottish Rite; Past Patron of The Order of Eastern Star; Past Advisor of The Order of DeMolay; Past Imperial Ruler A.M.O.B., Imperial Guild, UCT; Past Commissioner,The Boy Scouts of America; Past Squadron Commander, Civil Air Patrol; Past Grand Tall Cedar, Tall Cedars of Lebanon, Portsmouth, VA; Legionnaire, Loyal Order of the Moose; life member of Veterans of Foreign Wars; and member of the American Legion.

Other national and local honors he received include a letter from President George W. Bush, White House, Washington, D.C; George Washington Medal of Honor; Freedom Foundation Award of Valley Forge; Fraternalist of the Year 1996-97 – UCT North America; Documented Tribute presented by the State of Florida’s House of Representatives; Reader’s Digest – March 2003 – “Everyday Heroes Giving Back”; Listed in Acknowledgments of Gen. Tommy Franks book “The American Soldier”; received an American Flag that flew over the U.S. Capital from Con. C.W. “Bill” Young; Golden Globe and Silver Globe Awards- published writings and poems; “Man of the Year,” The Daughters of the American Revolution; “Senior Citizen Hall of Fame” 1998 – City of St. Petersburg, FL; Keys to the City of St. Petersburg – for Community Service; Keys to the City of Warwick Rhode Island, R.I.- for Community Service; “Veteran of the Year”- La Porte County 2007; and Al was past President for “Banana Bread for the Troops Inc.”

There are many awards, medals and ribbons Al has received during his life, but he will be remembered here locally as the “Greeter at Walmart,” in LaPorte who always had a smile on his face and a nice clean joke to tell the customers who would ask, “What’s the joke of the day?” He also had an American Flag bunting and a stuffed dog on his walker for the kids to “pet.” He would go out of his way to be as pleasant and helpful to all those around him. Al worked for Walmart from 2007 until he could no longer work when diagnosed with Mesothelioma this past October 2016. Al loved all those he worked with and those he met while on his final journey of life.

Surviving are his wife, Barbara Davis of LaPorte; son, William F. (Brandi) Davis of LaPorte; niece, Susan (Edward) Karan Nemie of Chesapeake, VA; two grandchildren, Hannah Rose Davis and Jacob Ryan (Jessica Kirkham) Davis, both of LaPorte; sister-in-law, Theresa A. Karan Cole of Virginia Beach, VA; four nieces, June Cole and Karen (Pastor Michael Barnes) Cole Barnes, both of Virginia, Kathie (Theodore) Cole Kubisek of Jacksonville, FL, and Lisa (Steve) Dellario of New York; nephew, Thomas Cole of Virginia; and great-niece, Mandy (Joseph) Adelizzi of Virginia.

Preceding him in death were his parents: Albert F. Davis Sr., the head baker for Sheraton Inns and traveled all over the country to bake a cake replica of each new hotel they opened, and Mildred Agnes Adams Davis; brothers-in-law, Thomas J. (Bertha Lewis Karan) Karan and Gerald A. Cole Sr.; niece, Carolyn Cole; and two nephews, Gerald A. Cole Jr. and Thomas J. Karan Jr., aka Sef Lewis.

A memorial service celebrating his life will be held at noon Saturday, Jan. 7, at Lakeview Funeral Home and Crematory, LaPorte, with military honors performed. Visitation will be Saturday from 10 a.m. until the service.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the family c/o Lakeview Funeral Home and Crematory, 247 W. Johnson Rd., LaPorte, IN 46350, or to the donor’s choice.

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

Betty Jane Clayton Ramsey, 95, died peacefully at home on Dec. 22, 2016, in Cedar City, Utah.

She was born May 22, 1921, in LaPorte to Peter H. and Ila (Hubbard) Clayton.

Betty attended business college and worked as secretary for Mill Creek Elementary School. She was a lifelong member of Salem Chapel United Methodist Church and was organist there for many years. She was a member of United Methodist Women, and the “cream pie” lady at the church booth at the LaPorte County Fair.

Betty loved her family and her kitty. She enjoyed growing flowers, watching the Cubs, baking and reading. She enjoyed traveling with her family. Betty was especially happy that the Cubs won the World Series this year!

Betty is survived by her children: Dennis (Barbara) Ramsey of Brownstown, IN, Leslie (Clarena) Ramsey of LaPorte and Janet (Tom, deceased) Ackart of Cedar City, UT; four grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren with one on the way.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Claude H. Ramsey; her parents; her brothers, Vernon and Lloyd of LaPorte; and her sister, Ione Andrews of LaPorte.

The family will receive friends at Salem Chapel United Methodist Church, LaPorte, on Saturday, Jan. 7, from 9 to 10 a.m. A life celebration will be held at the church Saturday at 10 a.m. with Pastor Brian White officiating. Interment will follow at Salem Cemetery, LaPorte.

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

Robert Lee Smith III, 35, died unexpectedly on the morning of Monday, Dec. 26, 2016.

Bobby was born Sept. 13, 1981, in Jacksonville, FL.

He mastered in Automotive Leather Interior Installation for 10-plus years of his life. His hobbies were building cars and listening to all genres of music. Bobby cherished every moment spent building memories with his children. He also enjoyed hanging out with his friends (to be center of attention, of course. Lol). He was always able to make everyone smile and laugh. Bobby had the personality to make a bad day turn good (at times. Lol). He would speak his mind, speak honesty and reality; “it is what it is.” He also enjoyed making memories with those around him, including his greatest memory of a football game with Melissa and his “Pops,” Jacksonville Jaguars vs. his Pops’ favorite team, the Miami Dolphins. Even though Bobby’s favorite teams were college football — Florida State and the Miami Hurricanes.

He is survived by his parents, Robert L. Smith Jr. and Janet Lehman-Smith, both of Jacksonville, FL; brother, Norman (Mitchy) McLeese of LaPorte; paternal grandmother, his Mammaw, Norma J. Grimes of Orange Park, FL; his greatest accomplishments, his three beautiful children: daughters, Haley R. Smith and Kristina M. Smith; and son, Robert “Bobby” L. Smith IV, all born in Jacksonville, FL; and his best friend of 17 years, his “Baby Momma,” Melissa A. Jones of LaPorte. He is also survived by many aunts and uncles, including his favorite aunt Jody; and several cousins, including two of his closest cousins, Michael Joe and Melissa Lehman.

Bobby was preceded in death by his paternal grandfather, his “Papaw” Robert Lee Smith; and his maternal grandparents, Bobby and MaryJoe Lehman and Rose Orman.

A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held at noon Friday, Jan. 6, at Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center, LaPorte, with Pastor Roger Ash officiating. Visitation will be Friday from 11 a.m. until the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the family of Robert L. Smith c/o Melissa Jones, 2900 Monroe St., LaPorte, IN 46350.

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

Barbara Ann Dean, 73, of Rolling Prairie, IN, died Thursday, Jan. 5, 2017, at her home.

She was born Jan. 9, 1943, in South Bend, IN, to Leo and Clara (Taberski) Pietrowski.

Barbara worked at Redi-Froze in South Bend, was a key punch operator at National Bank, and worked for the LaPorte County Auditor’s Office.  She was elected as LaPorte County Recorder for two terms in 2000 through 2004 and 2004 through 2008. Barbara retired but then ran and was re-elected as County Recorder in 2012 thru 2016, then re-elected in November 2016.  She was a member of PRCU, American Legion 297 in New Carlisle, IN, Polish Falcons 1031 in LaPorte, LaPorte Civic Club (where she served as a secretary), Master Gardener, Democratic Club, Farm Bureau, League of Women Voters, and St. John Kanty Catholic Church. Barbara loved her farm, calling it her “Queendom.”

On March 8, 1967, in Chicago, she married Hubert E. “Ed” Dean Sr., who preceded her in death in 2010.

She was also preceded in death by her parents; daughter, Suzie Brutz; siblings, Joseph Pietrowski, Ester Embler, Leona Mixon and Robert Pietrowski, and Dewey, Junie, Bruce, Cheryl and Craig. 

Surviving are her beloved son, Ed (Debbie) Dean; eight grandchildren, Sara (Matt) Trevice, Zackary Dean, Steven (Erin) Havenstein, Scott Havenstein, Tabby and Penny Brutz, and David and Michael Dean; and a host of great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.  Also surviving are nieces and nephews: Mary Ann Bishop, Nancy Smith, Tina (Dan) Soria, Susie (Tom) Jasinski, Larry Pietrowski, Linda Myers, Richard (Kathy) Warren, William (Sonia) Henderson, Sandra (Robert) Gause, David (Candi), Norma, Lisa (Curt), Janet, Carol (Jeff), Doug (Melissa), Mark, Bobby (Mary), Edie (Rick), Bonnie (Bill), Nick (Paulette), Bret (Glory), Toby (Samantha), Bobby Dean (Melissa), Kenny, Steve (Debbie), Anne (Kevin), Charlene, Melissa (Greg), and Valerie (Carl).  She is also survived by her beloved dog, BeBe Sue, and cat, Kitty.

Barbara will be missed by her niece, Diane Pietrowski. Barbara was her best friend, mother, confidant, campaigner, dance partner, and her all.

A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 11, at St. John Kanty Catholic Church, Rolling Prairie, with Rev. Michael Heimer officiating. Visitation will be at Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center, LaPorte, on Tuesday, Jan. 10, from 2 to 7 p.m. and on Wednesday from 9 to 10 a.m. A Rosary Service will take place at 2 p.m.  Tuesday at the funeral home. Burial will follow the Mass at St. John Kanty Catholic Cemetery in Rolling Prairie.

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

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

Brian Alan Fairman, 49, of LaPorte, died unexpectedly Wednesday, Jan. 4, 2017, at home.

He was born Dec. 5, 1967, in Johnstown, PA, to Randall S. and Sandra L. (Burke) Fairman.

Brian was a graduate of LaPorte High School and Wyoming Tech. He was a very caring and kind person who was always ready to help anyone. Brian was a handyman who could fix anything. He enjoyed fishing and being outdoors. He will now join his dog, Champ.

Preceding him in death was his father, Randall S. Fairman Sr.

Surviving are his mother, Sandra Fairman of LaPorte; sister, Holly Fairman of Wyoming; brother, Randall (Janet) Fairman of Maine; nieces, Evelyn and Laura Fairman; and his great friend, Larry Dilloway.

A private memorial service will be held at a later date. Burial will be in Atwood Cemetery, Armstrong County, PA. Lakeview Funeral Home and Crematory, LaPorte, is handling arrangements.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the LaPorte County Small Animal Shelter, 2855 W. Ind. 2, LaPorte, IN 46350 in memory of Brian A. Fairman.

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

Roger Dale Bernard, 71, of LaPorte, died Friday, Jan. 6, 2017, at IU Health LaPorte Hospital.

He was born Jan. 19, 1945, in Hazard, KY, to Virginia Dixon.

Roger was an amazing person who had a wonderful sense of humor and loved to project a rough exterior yet had a very soft heart. He will be greatly missed. Roger was hired by the LaPorte County Sheriff’s Department in August of 1980 and he honorably served the residents of our county for 28 years, having retired in October of 2008. Roger also worked as a courier for the LaPorte Savings Bank and as a security officer on Oprah Winfrey’s farm. In addition, Roger was a United States Marine and he liked to add that to his persona. Besides being a dedicated public servant and great co-worker, he was a devoted husband and a wonderful father. He also loved his grandchildren and would never hesitate to tell people that he was a father to their dogs, donkeys and horses. He also enjoyed cooking, fishing, traveling, and John Deere tractors.

On Aug. 12, 2000, he married Jane Gretz, who survives.

Also surviving are his beloved children, Jennifer Bernard-Bildhauser of LaPorte and Christopher (Summer) Bernard of LaPorte; grandchildren, Jordyn, Madison, Amira, Trenton, Violet, Tucker, Chance, and Toy; sister, Donna Maglio; extended family, Eric Hayes and Chris Kottka; brother-in-law, Jim (Debbie) Gretz of Surprise, AZ; sisters-in-law, Margaret (Al) Luther of Racine, WI, and Sue (Ralph) Mazzie of Cochranville, PA; as well as nieces, nephews and numerous friends.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Virginia Ambrose; brother, Greg Bernard; stepbrother, Larry Ambrose; stepsister, Brenda Patterson; and stepfather, James Ambrose.

A Celebration of Life Memorial Service with full military honors will be held at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 11, at Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center, LaPorte. Visitation will be Wednesday from 2 to 6:30 p.m. A cremation committal has taken place.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to the LaPorte County Small Animal Shelter, 2855 West Ind. 2, LaPorte, IN 46350.

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

Lawrence E. Moody, 80, of Rolling Prairie, IN, died Wednesday, Jan. 4, 2017, at South Bend Hospice House.

He was born Aug. 7, 1936, in South Bend, IN, to Murray Sr. and Esther (Cortier) Moody.

Lawrence served honorably in the U.S. Marine Corps. He was a member of Lambs Chapel and PRCU. He worked as an auto salesman all his life, retiring from Sauers Buick GMC as General Manager. Lawrence loved hunting and fishing with his friends and family. In his retirement he enjoyed working lawn care service.

Surviving are his beloved children, Kellie M. Johnson of Rolling Prairie, Kris D. (Stacey) Moody of Rolling Prairie, Klorissa aka Mollie Moody of Rolling Prairie and Koby M. Moody of LaPorte; grandchildren, Kodie M. Johnson, Riley G. Moody and Sydney C. Moody; sisters, Gloria Knight of Nebraska and Marsha Moore of Bloomington, IN; and partner, Colletta Garrage.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Murray Sr. and Adeline Moody and George and Esther Carbiener; and brother, Murray Moody Jr.

A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 14, at Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center, LaPorte. Visitation will be Saturday from 10 a.m. until the service. A cremation committal has taken place.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the Alzheimer’s Association, 50 E. 91st St., Ste. 100, Indianapolis, IN 46209-4830; to the family c/o Klorissa Moody, 2900 Monroe St., LaPorte, IN  46350; or the charity of the donor’s choice.       

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

Shirley Sue Oberholtzer, 79, of LaPorte, died Thursday, Jan. 5, 2017, at Franciscan Communities Hospice in Michigan City, IN.

She was born Aug. 10, 1937, in Georgetown, IN, to George and Pearl Mattox.

Shirley was the former co-owner of The Beehive. She also worked for Ticor Title from 1978-2000 and at LaPorte County Courthouse from 2001-2012. She enjoyed gardening, Zumba, walking and exercising, reading and crafts. Shirley especially loved spending time with her grandchild, Zoe.

Surviving are her beloved children, Amy Oberholtzer-Adams of LaPorte, Paula (Joe) Ernst of Virginia and Rhonda (Ron) Hykes of Alabama; grandchildren, Tricia, Matt, Zoe, Kimberly and Bonnie; three great-grandchildren; her loving companion of 38 years, Wayne Dadlow, and their dog Nicky; and numerous nieces, nephews and great friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents and three sisters.

A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held at the American Legion, 228 E. Lincolnway, LaPorte, on Sunday, Jan. 29, at 1 p.m. A cremation committal has taken place with Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center, LaPorte.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Girl Power 2 Cure, 1811 S. 14th St. No. 1, Amelia Island, FL 32034, in honor of her granddaughter, Zoe Adams, for Rett Syndrome research.                                

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

Mr. Donald D. DeWitt, 77, of LaPorte, died Friday, Jan. 6, 2017, at Golden Living Center-Countryside in LaPorte.

He was born July 24, 1939, in Indiana to Barney and Ethel (Cody) DeWitt.

Donald was a machinist for Berkel Corp. for many years. He was a member of First Baptist Church of Kingsbury. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army and a member of PRCU. Donald was an avid movie collector and loved working in the garden.

On March 10, 1963, in Omaha, NE, he married Reva Carlson DeWitt, who preceded him in death May 8, 2003.

He was also preceded in death by his parents and brother, Norm DeWitt.

He is survived by his four sons, Rick (Chris) DeWitt, Donnie DeWitt, Jimmy (Lynn) DeWitt and Ty DeWitt; three daughters, Teresa (Kevin) Prast, Sherri (George) Wilson and Vickie (Bruce) Underwood; 15 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; two sisters, Bonnie Pickins and Judy Pontius; and two brothers, Robert Towers and Jimmy Reeves.

The family will receive friends at Haverstock Funeral Home and Cremation Services, LaPorte, on Tuesday, Jan. 10, from 4 to 8 p.m. and Wednesday, Jan. 11, from 10 to 11 a.m. A life celebration will be held Wednesday at 11 a.m. at the funeral home with Rev. Tim Williams officiating. Interment will follow at Pine Lake Cemetery, LaPorte.

Memorial contributions may be made to First Baptist Church of Kingsbury, P.O. Box 47, Kingsbury, IN 46345.

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

Julia Ann Dow, 61, of LaPorte, entered into eternal peace on Saturday, Jan. 7, 2017.  

She was born Feb. 21, 1955, in LaPorte to Rosemary Ita (Bauchman) and Robert Paul Keig, both of whom preceded her in death.

Julia was employed with the LaPorte Kroger as a cashier for the past 17 years. She was a member of United Food and Commercial Workers International Union (UFCW).

She leaves many loving memories to be cherished by her daughter, Vicki (Jason) Jackman of Fish Lake, IN; sons, Paul Wojcik of Kingsbury, IN, and Matthew Wojcik of LaPorte; grandchildren, Jayden Jackman and Hailey and Hanna Dyer; and sister, Roberta Ann “Bobbie” Keig of LaPorte.

Visitation will be from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday, Jan. 13, at Frank L. Keszei Funeral Home, Essling Chapel, LaPorte. A funeral service will be held at 1 p.m. Friday at the funeral home with Rev. Randy Cook officiating. Burial will follow in Pine Lake Cemetery, LaPorte.

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

William R. Shultz, 90, of Mount Laurel, NJ, and formerly of LaPorte, died Friday, Jan. 6, 2017.  

He was born April 18, 1926, in LaPorte to Ralph and Frances (Behrndt) Shultz (deceased), and was the husband of Gloria (Diffendorfer) Shultz (deceased).

He is survived by daughter Diane Hurlburt, son-in-law Warren, and grandson Adam.

William was a World War II Army veteran and a member of Michigan City Elks Lodge and Bethany Lutheran Church, LaPorte.

A private viewing will be held Saturday morning at Frank L. Keszei Funeral Home, Essling Chapel, LaPorte. Interment will follow at 12:30 p.m. Saturday in Pine Lake Cemetery, LaPorte.

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

Marcia C. Porter, formerly of Rolling Prairie, IN, died Friday, Jan. 6, 2017, at Prairie Lakes Health Campus in Noblesville, IN, following a six-month illness.

Marcia Claudette Jones was born Dec. 24, 1932, in LaPorte to Basil and Nellie Jones.

Marcia graduated from Rolling Prairie High School. She was involved in Eastern Star at an early age. She also served as a volunteer at Leighton Center for Seniors, South Bend, IN. While volunteering there, Marcia and Charles served on a Sage-ing Council and were trained as facilitators for several programs. Marcia also served as a volunteer usher at the Morris Performing Arts Center in South Bend for 14 years. Marcia was a lay minister at the United Methodist Church in Rolling Prairie, having served as church organist for many years, helping to fulfill her lifelong love of music. One of Marcia’s great interests was the history of the local area; her work survives today in articles written about the history of the local fire department and the church, as well as many other contributions.

Marcia was a substitute teacher for 15 years, which gave her the flexibility to be with her family as well as work. When she turned 40, she began a career as a newspaper editor/photographer/reporter, although she had been a reporter since her 18th birthday for a daily newspaper. When her husband Charles’ career took her to Richmond, IN, she took on the role of Executive Director of the Richmond Symphony Orchestra. After moving back to Rolling Prairie, she worked as Registrar at LaPorte High School. Marcia also worked at Teledyne, and at various temp jobs in LaPorte and South Bend.

Marcia was chosen to appear as a schoolteacher in “Prancer,” a major motion picture filmed in LaPorte County and Three Oaks, MI. This role gave her much joy as she was recognized around the holidays.

Marcia and Charles relocated to Cicero, IN, to be closer to sons and grandkids. Building on her previous experience, she wrote a newsletter for the local community as well as developing many friendships.

Marcia married Charles Porter on Nov. 4, 1951, in Rolling Prairie. He preceded her in death.

She is survived by her daughter, Susan Sims of Woodstock, GA; two sons, Timothy of Bloomington, IN, and Matthew of Noblesville, IN; and two grandchildren, Sarah and Luke Porter of Noblesville.

The family will receive friends at Haverstock Funeral Home and Cremation Services, LaPorte, on Friday, Jan. 13, from 4 to 8 p.m. A memorial service will be held Saturday, Jan. 14, at 11 a.m. at the funeral home. The family is working to set a date for a Celebration of Life luncheon in June 2017.

The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations in Marcia’s honor be made to the American Cancer Association at Marcia Porter Memorial for Cancer Instead of Flowers: www.crowdrise.com/marcia-porter-memorial-for-cancer-instead-of-flowers/fundraiser/timothyporter1.

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

Mr. Forrest C. Zimmerman, 89, of LaPorte, died Tuesday, Jan. 10, 2017, at LaPorte Hospital.

He was born Dec. 21, 1927, in LaPorte to Carl and Helen (Lotter) Zimmerman.

Forrest retired from Allied Signal in 1990 after 37 years of service. He was a member of St. John Lutheran Church of LaPorte; a veteran of the U.S. Navy, having served during World War II; and a past member of Lions Club of Fish Lake, IN. Forrest was an avid gardener and golfer and enjoyed traveling and sharing the love of his favorite camping spot with family and friends in Ludington, MI. He loved spending time with his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

On Feb. 9, 1951, in LaPorte, he married Mildred Fossow Zimmerman, who preceded him in death May 28, 2008.

Forrest was also preceded in death by his parents and two sons.

He is survived by his two daughters, Karen (Lou) Biernacki and Sharon (Mark) Nowatzke; son, Michael (Karen) Zimmerman; eight grandchildren, Jacob Biernacki, Jessica (Jonathan) Jensen, Rebecca Biernacki, MacKenzie (Craig) Hammonds, Alexandra Bachert, Scott Bradford, Brandon Zimmerman, and Cheyenne Zimmerman; five great-grandchildren, Alivia, Nora, Grace, Timothy Hammonds, and Aria Gehrman; sister, Jeannine Martin; and two brothers, Roger Zimmerman and Dale Zimmerman.

The family will receive friends at Haverstock Funeral Home and Cremation Services, LaPorte, on Tuesday, Jan. 24, from 3 to 5 p.m. A life celebration will be held Tuesday at 5 p.m. at the funeral home with Rev. Ronald A. Brauer officiating. Interment will take place at Pine Lake Cemetery, LaPorte.

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

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

Gail Marie Morgan, 78, of LaPorte, died unexpectedly at 12:59 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 8, 2017, in her home.

She was born Nov. 6, 1938, in LaPorte to Charles and Virginia (Rachor) Boklund.

Gail was a lifetime member of St. Joseph Catholic Church in LaPorte. She enjoyed cross stitching, making blankets for cancer patients, reading, playing UNO with her son, and going to Florida every year with her family.

On Sept. 3, 1960, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, LaPorte, she married Robert “Bob” Morgan, who died Tuesday, Jan. 10, 2017.

Also preceding her in death were her parents and son, Robert J. Morgan Jr.

Surviving are her son, David Morgan of LaPorte, and two sisters, Diane (Charlie) Morgan of Michigan City, IN, and Debbie (Bob) Morgan of Barrington, IL.

A memorial service celebrating the lives of Gail and Bob Morgan will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 14, at Lakeview Funeral Home and Crematory, LaPorte, with Father Jaime Perea officiating. Visitation will be Saturday from 9 a.m. until the service. Burial will take place in the spring at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery, LaPorte.

Memorial contributions may be directed to St. Joseph Catholic Church, 109 C St., LaPorte, IN 46350; or Hospice Franciscan Communities, 1225 E. Coolspring Ave., Suite 1E, Michigan City, IN 46360.

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

Robert “Bob” James Morgan, 83, of LaPorte, died peacefully at 10:20 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 10, 2017, at Hospice Franciscan Communities, Michigan City, IN.

He was born April 26, 1933, in Michigan City to Earl W. and Marie A. (Kieffer) Morgan.

Bob honorably served his country in the United States Navy. He retired in 1997 from Bethlehem Steel after 33 years of service. Bob was a lifetime member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, LaPorte, Loyal Order of The Moose, and VFW Post 2536, and was a 32nd Degree Mason. Bob enjoyed golfing with his friends and going to Florida every year with his family. He had previously owned and operated Randlers Tavern in Portage, IN.

On Sept. 3, 1960, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in LaPorte, he married Gail Marie (Boklund) Morgan, who died Jan. 8, 2017.

Also preceding him in death were his parents and son, Robert J. Morgan Jr.

Surviving are his son, David Morgan of LaPorte; three siblings, Marlene Donegan of Arizona, Charlie (Diane) Morgan of Michigan City and Patricia (Jim) Myers of Arizona; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

A memorial service celebrating the lives of Gail and Bob Morgan will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 14, at Lakeview Funeral Home and Crematory, LaPorte, with Father Jaime Perea officiating. Visitation will be Saturday from 9 a.m. until the service. Burial will take place in the spring at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery, LaPorte.

Memorial contributions may be directed to St. Joseph Catholic Church, 109 C St., LaPorte, IN 46350; or Hospice Franciscan Communities, 1225 E. Coolspring Ave., Suite 1E, Michigan City, IN 46360.

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

Brian “Butch” Engle, 26, of LaPorte, died unexpectedly Tuesday, Jan. 10, 2017, at LaPorte Hospital.

He was born Jan. 31, 1990, in Corbin, KY, to Brian and Vickie (Reeder) Engle.

Butch worked in construction. He loved kids, being with his friends and spending time with his family, making people laugh, driving anything with wheels, and his tattoo artwork. He loved being with his son, Baby Joe. Butch was always there and willing to help people.

He will be deeply missed by all.

Surviving are his parents, Brian and Vickie Engle of LaPorte; brother, Zach (Anna Bertnolli) Russell, and two sisters, Amber (Robert) Hyer and Tory Engle, all of LaPorte; fiancée, Cassandra Jackson; his son, Baby Joe; grandparents, Russell (Peggy) Engle of Lily, KY, and Daniel (Peggy) Reeder of Corbin, KY; great-grandfather, Harve Gregory Jr. of Corbin, KY; five nephews, Gavin, Kolton, Parker, Calvyn and Camdyn; seven close cousins; four aunts and four uncles.

Preceding him in death were his maternal and paternal great-grandparents.

A funeral celebrating his life will be held at 3 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 14, at Lakeview Funeral Home and Crematory, LaPorte, with Pastor Mike Johnson officiating. Visitation will be Friday, Jan. 13, from 6 to 8 p.m. and Saturday from 2 p.m. until the service. Burial will be in Worley Cemetery, Corbin, KY, at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to the family.

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

Ruth Ann Rothbauer, 64, of LaPorte, died Monday, Jan. 9, 2017.

She was born Feb. 22, 1952, in New Albany, IN, to Woodrow and Rachel (Wallace) Everly.  

Ruth was a graduate of Silver Creek High School in Sellersburg, IN, and Rock Valley Community College in Rockford, IL, where she received her associate degree in nursing. She loved sewing, reading, Bible study and spending time with her grandchildren. She was a member of St. Peter Catholic Church.  

On July 6, 1970, she married Tom D. Rothbauer, who survives.

She is also survived by one son, Christopher (Sandy) Rothbauer of Portage, IN; two daughters, Lauren Rothbauer and Emily Rothbauer, both of Portage, IN; sister-in-law, Jackie Riester; and three nieces.

She was preceded in death by her parents; brother, David Everly; and sister-in-law, Joyce Everly.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 14, at St. Peter Catholic Church, LaPorte, with Rev. Ian Williams officiating. Frank L. Keszei Funeral Home, Essling Chapel, LaPorte, is handling arrangements.

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

Mr. Roger Birlson, 62, of Michigan City, IN, died Sunday, Jan. 8, 2017, after suffering a massive heart attack.  

He was born Dec. 15, 1954, in LaPorte to Buster and Florence (Peggy) Birlson.

Roger is survived by his son, Roger Jr.; three sisters, Diane (Mike) Borawski, Sharon (Cary) Kirkham and Carla (Jim) Tool; nephews, Matthew Borawski and Billy Krachinski; and nieces, Emily Borawski and Sarah Toole.

His parents preceded him in death.

A memorial service/celebration of life will be held Saturday, Jan. 14, at 11 a.m. at Assembly of God Church, Boyd Boulevard, LaPorte, with Pastor Jeff Hines officiating. Visitation will be Saturday at the church from 10 a.m. until the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to his son, Roger Birlson Jr., c/o Vickie Dunfee, 1512 Scott St., LaPorte, IN 46350.

Messages of condolence may be posted below on WNLP.

Albert “Abe” P. Papai, 73, of New Carlisle, IN, died peacefully Wednesday, Jan. 11, 2017, in his home surrounded by his family at his side.
Abe was born Feb. 25, 1943, in South Bend, IN, to Stephen and Julie (Varga) Papai.
After graduating from St. Joseph High School, Abe played basketball for St. Joseph College in Rensselaer, IN, where he earned a BS in Geology.
Abe will fondly be remembered as a gifted artisan, leaving beautiful works of primitive archery, fine furniture and custom homes. His creativity spanned multiple genre, including writing, stained glass work and metal casting. He leaves countless handmade treasures that will be cherished for generations. Ultimately, Abe’s love and respect for nature and wildlife was his truest essence. He had a particular fondness for the state and national park systems and their mission of land and wildlife preservation.
On May 1, 1965, he married Sandy (Harsanyi), who survives.
His children, Tod (Barbara) Papai, Kelly (Tom) Jarka and Melissa (Raymond) Kuczmanski, will carry on his legacy of kindness and the importance of family. Abe is also survived by eight grandchildren: Brock (Kristina) Jarka, Margaux Jarka, Hunter, Annabelle and Luke Papai, and Olivia, Noah, and Isaac Kuczmanski; and great-grandson, Boden Jarka. Surviving siblings include David (Leanor) Papai, Victor (Mary Lou) Papai and Jill (Tony) Mroczkiewicz.
Visitation will be Sunday, Jan. 15, from 3 to 7 p.m. EST at St. Joseph Funeral Home, South Bend, where a Funeral Ceremony will take place at 11 a.m. EST Monday, Jan. 16. Burial will follow at Porter Rae Cemetery, Potato Creek State Park, North Liberty, IN.
Memorial contributions may be made to the ALS Association Indiana Chapter, 7202 E. 87th. St., No. 102, Indianapolis, IN 46256; or Potato Creek State Park Nature Center, 25601 IN. 4, North Liberty, IN 46554.
Messages of condolence may be posted below on WNLP as well as at www.sjfh.net.