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Paul Miller, 1929-2019

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Paul A. Miller, 90, of Union Mills, IN, passed away peacefully Thursday, May 9, 2019, at Brentwood Assisted Living, LaPorte, IN.

He was born March 29, 1929, in Kokomo, IN, to the late Harold S. Miller Sr. and Esther (Heater) Miller.

Paul served his country in the U.S. Army as an aircraft mechanic in the U.S. Air Force, retiring after 20 years of service.

He married his wife of 61 years, Masako Miller, on Sept. 25, 1957, in Japan. She preceded him in death on Oct. 7, 2018.

Surviving are two daughters, Wanda (Gene) Dye of Union Mills and Jennifer (Don) Jensen of Springfield, MO; two grandsons, Rusty and Samuel Brinker; two granddaughters, Melinda (Micah) Slauter and Taylor Dye; five great-grandchildren, Keagen Brinker, Hailee Brinker, Meliah Slauter, Malachi Slauter and Maxine Slauter; and one sister, Martha Nichols.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Robert and Harold; and sisters, Ruth, Nancy, Mary, Joann and Sharon.

A memorial service celebrating his life will be held at 3 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 10, at Lakeview Funeral Home & Crematory, LaPorte, with Pastor James Bouslog officiating. Visitation will be held from 2 p.m. until the service Saturday at the funeral home. Burial will take place at Union Mills Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be directed to the Alzheimer’s Association in memory of Masako Miller, AseraCare Hospice, 808 Vale Park Rd., Ste. 200, Valparaiso, IN 46383; or Heart to Heart Hospice, 620 W. Edison Rd., Ste. 122, Mishawaka, IN 46545.

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


Masako Miller, 1933-2019

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Masako Miller, 85, of Union Mills, IN, went peacefully into the arms of Jesus Sunday, Oct. 7, 2018, at Golden Living Center Fountainview Terrace, LaPorte, IN.

She was born in the Fukushima Prefecture of Japan on Sept. 21, 1933.

Masako graduated from seamstress school in Japan. She worked as a seamstress at Eastmoor, Burnham Glove Factory and Palmer Upholstery Shop, all in Michigan City. After retirement, Masako loved spending time with her family. She enjoyed sewing for family and friends, crocheting, flower gardening, and QVC and HSN shopping.

Masako married her husband of 61 years, Paul A. Miller, in Japan on Sept. 25, 1957. He passed away May 9, 2019.

Surviving are her daughters, Wanda (Gene) Dye of Union Mills and Jennifer (Don) Jensen of Springfield, MO; her grandsons, Rusty Brinker and Samuel Brinker; granddaughters, Melinda (Micah) Slauter and Taylor Dye; and her five great-grandchildren, Keagen Brinker, Hailee Brinker, Meliah Slauter, Malachi Slauter and Maxine Slauter.

Masako Miller, wife, the best mother, the greatest grandma and great-grandma. There was joy beyond measure when we were together. We will miss her smile, her giggles and most of all her laughter.

There are no goodbyes, only sayounara.

A memorial service celebrating her life will be held at 3 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 10, 2019, at Lakeview Funeral Home & Crematory, LaPorte, with Pastor James Bouslog officiating. Visitation will be held from 2 p.m. until the service Saturday at the funeral home. Burial will take place at Union Mills Cemetery.

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

Allen Malekovic, 1948-2019

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Allen Edward Malekovic, 70, of LaPorte, IN, passed away Thursday, Aug. 1, 2019.

He was born Dec. 31, 1948, in LaPorte to the late Laddie and Frances (Blinkal) Malekovic.

Allen was a bar manager in Chicago and a custodian with the LaPorte Community Schools for many years.  He was a member of Sacred Heart Parish in LaPorte and played on the 1967 LaPorte Slicers state championship baseball team. He was inducted into the Indiana High School Baseball Hall of Fame. Allen was a member of AA and proud to be recovered for over 20 years.

Allen is survived by his children, Shane Malekovic of Spring Hill, FL, Troy Malekovic of Jacksonville, FL, Brett (Chris) Malekovic of LaPorte, Tara (Fernando) Lopez of Chicago, Erin Malekovic of Palos Hills, IL, Jason (Alexandra) Jones of Honolulu, HI, Paul Paleothodoros of Palos Hills, IL; 14 grandchildren; 2 great-grandchildren; and a brother, Steve (Virginia) Malekovic of LaPorte. Allen was a loving uncle to Pamela Upp, Joseph Malekovic; many great-nieces and nephews; and one great great-niece and two great-great-nephews.

Visitation will be from 4-7 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 6, at Frank L. Keszei Funeral Home, Essling Chapel, LaPorte. A Parish Rosary will be recited at 4 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 7, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, LaPorte. Reverend Ian Williams will officiate. Burial will follow in Patton Cemetery, LaPorte.

Memorial contributions may be made to Sacred Heart Parish, 201 Bach St., LaPorte, IN 46350.

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

Moments in Time, Aug. 3

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Compiled by Mary Hedge, LaPorte County Public Library 

Aug. 3, 1919 — The German Methodist Episcopal Church on Harrison Street will pass out of existence and become an integral part of the First M.E. Church on Monroe Street.

Aug. 3, 1969 — Scientists hope to look inside a second box of moon rocks brought back by Apollo 11. Geologists expect to find no surprises in the 39 pounds of the moon.

Aug. 3, 1994 — A Kingsford Heights town employee and volunteer girls softball coach has been arrested and charged with molesting two teenage girls.

Aug. 3, 2009 — This July had the coolest weather in more than a century.

James “Al” Penny, 1928-2019

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James “Al” Alvin Penny, 91, of LaPorte, IN, passed away peacefully at his home on Friday, Aug. 2, 2019.

He was born Jan. 11, 1928, in Cordele, GA, to W.R. and Verna (Shell) Penny.

Al was a full-blooded American, serving his country in both the Army and Air Force. He was a life member of the VFW. Al owned and operated his own business as an exterminator and gardener. For over 35 years, Al and his wife Florene were well known for “Flo’s Tomatoes.”

On Jan. 25, 1955, in Westville, IN, he married Florene Cunningham who survives.

Also surviving are his children, Stephen Penny of LaPorte and Linda Diane Gilliam of Westville; 3 grandchildren, Blake Penny and Taylor and Roscoe Gilliam; sister, Betty Ann Huckaby of Cordele, GA; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Karen Sue Penny; brothers, Robert, RL, Curtis and Vernon Penny; and sisters, MaryLee, Myrtle and Pauline.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 1 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 6, at Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center, LaPorte, with Pastor Dan Allen officiating. Burial will follow at Pine Lake Cemetery, LaPorte, where Full Military Honors will be held. Visitation will be held from 11 a.m. until the service on Tuesday at the funeral home.

Memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital-Memorial Processing, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN  38105-9959.

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

Gene Warren, 1934-2019

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Gene Arthur Warren, 84, of LaPorte, IN, passed away Sunday, Aug. 4, 2019, at Porter Regional Hospital in Valparaiso, IN.

He was born Dec. 17, 1934, in LaPorte, the son of Jacob Warren and Thelma (Jones) Warren.

Gene was a retired employee of GTE Verizon. He was highly active in the Stillwell Alumni and enjoyed the luxury of cars.

On Oct. 15, 2014, in LaPorte, he married Phill Sala, who survives in LaPorte.

He is also survived by his daughter, Dawn Warren of Tuscon, AZ; son, Jason (Sherry) Warren of LaPorte; sister, Kay (Mike) Czanderna of LaPorte; and brother, Allen (Carolyn) Warren of LaPorte.

Gene was preceded in death by both his parents; wife, Beverly Warren; son, Bryan Warren; and brother, Roy Warren.

Interment will take place at Pine Lake Cemetery, LaPorte, at a later date. Haverstock Funeral Home and Cremation Services, LaPorte, is handling arrangements.

Memorial contributions may be made to the LaPorte County Small Animal Shelter 2855 W. Ind. 2, LaPorte, IN 46350.

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

Gerald “Jerry” Bennitt, 1949-2019

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Gerald “Jerry” Dale Bennitt, 70, of LaPorte, IN, passed away Tuesday, July 30, 2019, at LaPorte Hospital.

He was born June 22, 1949, in LaPorte to Dale and Edna (Froh) Bennitt.

Jerry graduated from Tri-State University in 1971 with a degree in Engineering. He worked at several operating engineering jobs in the area, including United BlackTop Pavers, DLZ Engineering, and Dye Mechanical, until his retirement. He was most proud of the work that was done at Notre Dame during his time at Dye Mechanical. He was a member of Operating Engineers Union Local 150, Polish Falcons and PNA, all of LaPorte. Jerry enjoyed golfing, car racing, horse racing, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, and Chicago Black Hawks. He especially enjoyed socializing at the clubs with friends.

In June 1968, he married Sherrie Lynn Lenardson. In their union was born a son, Robert Dale Bennitt, who proceeded him in death in 1995; and a daughter, Jennifer Rae Diedrich.

On June 22, 2002, in LaPorte, he married Bonnie Tyree, who survives. Also surviving are his daughter, Jennifer (Kenneth) Diedrich of Virginia Beach, VA; stepsons, Jeff (Sarah) Tyree of Cincinnati, OH, and Joe (Stacey) Tyree of Manchester, CT; 4 grandchildren, Kenneth III, Cameron, Emilie and Lauren Diedrich, all of Virginia Beach, VA; and step-grandchildren, Lucy and Owen Tyree of Manchester, CT, and Noah and Amelia Tyree of Cincinnati, OH.

He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Robert Bennitt; and stepson, Jonathan Tyree.

Per Jerry’s wishes, cremation has taken place with Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center, LaPorte. A memorial is planned for family and friends on Saturday, Aug. 24, from  2 to 6 p.m. at the Polish Falcons, 216 E. Lincolnway, LaPorte. Please “come as you are” to celebrate the memory of Jerry.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the family c/o Bonnie Bennitt, 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.cutlercares.com.

Terry Martin, 1966-2019

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Terry Ellis Martin, 53, passed away on Saturday, Aug. 3, 2019, at his residence.

He was born May 19, 1966, in LaPorte, IN, to Ellis and Johnye Mae (Brown) Martin.

Terry was a truck driver for many years.

Surviving are his children, Amanda (Kevin) Jones of Valparaiso, IN, and Tristan Martin; sisters, Angela DeLong of Florida, Janice (Scott) Alm of Ohio and Karen (Michael) Cox of Kingsford Heights, IN; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; nephew, Jeremy Cox; and niece, Lindsey Hagler.

Cremation has taken place with Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center, LaPorte. A private family service will take place at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the family c/o Amanda Jones, 2900 Monroe St., LaPorte, IN 46350.

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


Audrey Cook, 1924-2019

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Audrey M. Cook, 94, of LaPorte, IN, passed away Monday, Aug. 5, 2019, at Golden Living Center Fountainview Terrace in LaPorte.

She was born Sept. 24, 1924, in Pinhook, IN, the daughter of Wilbur Crawford and Blanch (McMillen) Crawford.

Audrey was a member of the Rolling Prairie Woman’s Auxiliary and Rolling Prairie VFW Post 9423.

On June 28, 1943, she married Frank H. Cook, who preceded her in death March 25, 1999.

She is survived by her five children, Cathleen (David) Ault of LaPorte, Joan (Richard) Shail, Robert (Carla) Cook of LaPorte, William (Gigi) Cook of Kingsford Heights, IN, and David (Ida) Cook; and 10 grandchildren.

Audrey was preceded in death by seven brothers, Glen, Delbert, Raymond, Jack, Harvey, Harold, and Marvin; and six sisters, Florence Pagel, Evelyn Rude, Melinda Thompson, Blanche Crawford, Dorothy Woodruff, and Rose Sievert.

A life celebration will be held at Pine Lake Cemetery, LaPorte, on Thursday, Aug. 8, at 10 a.m. with Pastor Jeff Zigler officiating. Interment will follow at the cemetery. Haverstock Funeral Home and Cremation Services, LaPorte, is handling arrangements.

Memorial contributions may be made to the LaPorte County Small Animal Shelter, 2855 W. Ind. 2, LaPorte, IN 46350; or to Dunes Hospice, 4711 Evans Ave., Valparaiso, IN 46383.

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

Kenneth Bowman, 1926-2019

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Kenneth “Ken” Bernard Bowman entered into eternal rest on Friday, Aug. 2, 2019, with his children at his side. He was 93.

Ken was born April 15, 1926, in LaPorte, IN. He was the youngest of the three children born to Rodney Bernard and Anna Marie (Klassen) Bowman.

After graduation from LaPorte High School, Ken attended Purdue University before going to Fairchild Aircraft in Hagerstown, MD, to begin his drafting/engineering career. Over the years he also worked for Pullman Car Company and then Bendix Corporation in Indiana. During this time, he joined the Navy Reserve and was ultimately deployed to the Korean War aboard the destroyer USS Shields.

After his discharge, Ken married his high school sweetheart, Rita Mae Bachman. The two were married for 64 years.

After starting their family, Ken began work at Martin Marietta Corporation in Baltimore, MD, before being transferred to Denver, CO. In 1965, he joined the Los Alamos Scientific Laboratory where he worked until his retirement at the age of 75.

Ken and his wife enjoyed traveling to destinations such as China, Japan, Europe, Australia, and Russia. He loved photography, cars, technological gizmos, the mountains, and national parks and monuments. Frequently, he would take his family on Sunday afternoon picnics to the Jemez or Bandelier. He was an active and faithful member of Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Parish.

Ken was preceded in death by his wife, Rita. His siblings, Cletus Bowman and Jean (Bowman) Boardman, also preceded him.

He is survived by his son, Carl Bernard and wife Lori of Flagstaff, AZ, and their sons Luke and Craig; daughter, Cecelia Ann and lifetime friend Bonnie of Denver, CO; son, Eric Bachman of Los Alamos, NM; and daughter, Martha Mary and wife Amy of North Waterboro, ME and their son Timothy.

He will be greatly missed.

A rosary will be held at Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish in Los Alamos at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 8, followed by a funeral Mass at the same location at 10 a.m. Friday, Aug. 9. There will be an interment at Guaje Pines Cemetery at 2 p.m. Aug. 9.

Messages of condolence may be posted below on WNLP.

Shirley Cleaver, 1936-2019

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Shirley Mae Cleaver, 82, of LaPorte, IN, passed away Saturday, Aug. 10, 2019, at Golden Living Center – Fountainview Terrace in LaPorte.

She was born Sept. 14, 1936, in LaPorte, the daughter of James Bell and Cleata Bell.

Shirley attended the LaPorte Assembly of God. She enjoyed gardening, especially taking care of roses. Shirley also enjoyed doing a variety of crafting, including crocheting and needlepoint.

On Sept. 7, 1974, in Florida, she married Ronald Cleaver, who preceded her in death May 5, 2015.

She is survived by her daughter, Lorri Price of LaPorte; son, Gary (Donna) Price of Lehigh, FL; and two great-grandchildren, Tyler Stone of LaPorte and Chloe Trimm of LaPorte.

Shirley was preceded in death by her parents; granddaughter, Ashley Stone; and two sisters, Nancy Bell and Mary Burlingham.

The family will receive friends at Haverstock Funeral Home, LaPorte, on Friday, Aug. 30, from 10 to 11 a.m. A life celebration will be held Friday, Aug. 30, at 11 a.m. at the funeral home with Pastor Jeff Hines officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made to Heart to Heart Hospice of Mishawaka, 620 W. Edison Rd., Ste, 122, Mishawaka, IN 46545.

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

Mary Hager, 1937-2019

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Mary E. Hager, 81, of LaPorte, IN, died Monday, Aug. 5, 2019, at her home.

She was born Sept. 2, 1937.

There are no services at this time. Haverstock Funeral Home and Cremation Services, LaPorte, is handling arrangements.

Kathy Heminger, 1950-2019

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Kathy L. Heminger, 68, of LaPorte, IN, passed away Sunday, Aug. 11, 2019, at home with her loving family by her side.

She was born in LaPorte on Aug. 28, 1950, to James and Norma (Haverstock) Bennitt.

Kathy was a public school aide for many years. She enjoyed taking trips with her sisters.

On Sept. 7, 1968, in New Carlisle, IN, she married Philip, who preceded her in death on July 17, 2019.

Surviving are her sisters, Sandy Chimento of San Antonio, TX, and Arlene (Fred) Martin of LaPorte; sister-in-law, Patricia Forler of Phoenix, AZ; nieces, Lisa (Cindy) Roddy of New Carlisle, Lori (Doyal) Momon of Rydal, GA, Lynda (Mark Sifford) Sorenson of San Antonio, TX, Amanda (Sergiu) Bec of Tucson, AZ, and Krista (Jamie) Hentschel of Wheatfield, IN; nephew, Jim (Michelle) Bennitt of LaPorte; and special fur baby, Jaden Rose.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband and in-laws, Frederic and Kay Heminger.

A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held at 6 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 15 at Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center, LaPorte, with Pastor Jeff Zigler officiating. Visitation will be held Thursday from 3 p.m. until the service. Cremation has taken place. Interment will take place at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Kingsford Heights Elementary School Library Fund, 460 Evanston Rd., Kingsford Heights, IN 46346.

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

Suzanne Holdeman, 1936-2019

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Suzanne M. Holdeman, 83, of LaPorte, IN, passed away Sunday, Aug. 11, 2019, surrounded by her family.

She was born June 21, 1936, in Ambazac, Haute Vienne, France, to Max and Marie Gabrielle (Lafitte) Dusser.

Suzanne was a Registered Nurse, having worked at LaPorte Hospital for 18 years, and a member of St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church in Walkerton, IN.

On June 30, 1959, Suzanne married Stephen H. Holdeman Sr. in Bordeaux, France. He preceded her in death on June 1, 2013.

Suzanne is survived by a daughter, Sheila Howe of LaPorte; two sons, Colonel Stephen H. Holdeman Jr. of Madison, AL, and Patrick James Holdeman of South Bend, IN; nine grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; three brothers; and two sisters.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; a daughter, Christine Holdeman; two brothers; and a sister.

A memorial service will be held at 10 a.m. CST Saturday, Aug. 17, at Frank L. Keszei Funeral Home, Essling Chapel, LaPorte. Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. CST Friday, Aug, 16, at the funeral home. Family and friends may also visit from 9 to 10 a.m. CST Saturday prior to the service. Pastor Bob Vale will officiate. Burial will follow in New Paris Cemetery, New Paris, IN. Cremation has taken place.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, 6931 Arlington Rd., Bethesda, MD 20814.

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

Mary Waak, 1943-2019

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Mary E. Waak, 76, of LaPorte, IN, passed away Saturday, July  20, 2019, at her home.

She was born in Washington, D.C., on March 28, 1943, to William and Florence (Lacey) Fary.

Mary was a Quality Control Inspector for 25 years at Gateway Industries. She was a member of Women of the Moose Lodge 492. Mary enjoyed gardening and reading.

On Aug. 16, 1958, in Dillon, SC, she married Jack Waak, who passed April 27, 2019.

Surviving are her children,  Judy (Steven) Waak-Pearce of Rolling Prairie, IN, Jack Waak Jr. of LaPorte and Ray Waak of Dothan, AL; 3 grandchildren, Chad (Sarah) Waak of Rolling Prairie, Ryan (Breanna) Waak of Mishawaka, IN, and Chelsea Waak of Michigan City, IN; 3 great-grandchildren; siblings, Sonny (Helen) Fary of Lynchburg, VA, Robert (Ann) Fary of Gloucester, VA, and Millie (Bruce) Jaeger of Annapolis, MD; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; beloved husband; brother, William Fary; and sister, Florence Mullins.

A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held at noon Saturday, Aug. 17, at Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center, LaPorte, with Pastor Roger Ash officiating. Visitation will be held at the funeral home Saturday from 10 a.m. until the service. Cremation has taken place. A private interment will take place at Patton Cemetery, LaPorte.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Moose Charities, 155 S. International Drive, Mooseheart, IL  60539, noting “Mary Waak Memorial-Mooseheart” or “Mary Waak Memorial-Moosehaven” in memo line.

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


James Martin, 1933-2019

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James Woodrow Martin, 85, of LaPorte, IN, passed away on Tuesday, Aug. 13, 2019.
He was born Sept. 30, 1933, in Pocahontas, AR, to A.L. and Dema Mae (Hurn) Martin.
James was one of 14 children. He was an avid baseball and White Sox fan. He coached at Irving Little League (Sox) in Hammond, IN. James loved hunting, but his true passion was his family, especially his children and grandchildren. He had a good heart, helped many people, and was a true friend. James was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. He will be deeply missed.
In 1954 he married Betty Miller, who survives.
Also surviving are daughters, Sally (Timothy Sr.) Pirowski and Kathy (Richard) Podkul; grandchildren, Timothy (Suzanne) Pirowski Jr., Amanda (Adam) Alaniz, Lauren (Andrew) Rainville, Morgan (Jared) Veldheer and Connor (Paige Pope) Podkul; great-grandchildren, Grace, Tyler, Sophia, Evelyn, Eva, Edwin, and Logan; sisters, Wanda DeJesus, Mary Rixie and Helen Sloan; and many nieces and nephews.
A funeral service will be held Friday, Aug. 16, at noon at Edmonds & Evans Funeral Home, Portage Chapel, 6941 Central Ave., Portage, IN, with Pastor Scott Jones officiating. Visitation will be Friday from 10 a.m. until the service. Burial will take place at Heritage Cemetery, Portage.
Donations in James’ honor may be made to an animal shelter of the donor’s choice.
Messages of condolence may be posted below on WNLP as well as at www.ee-fh.com.

George Allesee Jr., 1922-2019

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George Allesee Jr., 97, of LaPorte, IN, passed away Monday, Aug. 12, 2019, in his home surrounded by family.

George was born March 18, 1922, to George and Florence Allesee, LaPorte. He was the oldest of four siblings, Margie (deceased, age 6), Dick (deceased, July 2019), Bob (MI), and Tom (FL).  His dad, George Allesee Sr., was Physical Director at the YMCA and his mom was active at LaPorte First Baptist Church and WLOI radio station.

George enlisted as a cadet in the Army Air Corps and received his wings May 23, 1944.  Nineteen day later on June 11, he married Josephine “Jo” Pate, LaPorte. He then shipped out to Naples, Italy, where he served as a C47 Troop Carrier Pilot in World War II.  George retired from service in 1947 as a Captain, Army Air Corps.

On the GI Bill, George received his MA degree in education at Indiana University, Bloomington.  He taught history, geography,  and political science at LaPorte High School and substitute taught well into his 70s, where he was fondly referred to as “Mr. Chips.”  He also developed Intramural Basketball at LPHS as Athletic Director and was the first to introduce girls to the program. Allesee Park is named after his dad.

George and Jo had three children, George Allesee III (deceased, 1964), David and Nancy. Son, David, and wife, Shirley, live in Wisconsin.  Daughter, Nancy, and husband, John Richmond, live in California. George was blessed with two granddaughters, Sara Jo (Jon Klepp) and Maria Ann (Dwayne Sweeney), and five great-grandchildren, Paiton, Addison, Hana, Stella and Simon, with a baby girl on the way. George also had numerous nieces and nephews, who always enjoyed hearing his life stories.

George and Jo shared 67 years together until her passing Feb. 13, 2011.  They were avid IU basketball and Slicer fans.  They also loved to dance at their over 40s dance club. George loved the great outdoors and was often seen walking the streets of LaPorte tracking his distances. He would say “I’m going to walk around the world.”  Of all their wonderful experiences and memories on life’s journey, what they treasured most were faith and family. Their beautiful legacy will live on.

Special thanks to the community, agencies, friends, neighbors, and family who made his final chapter full of love, dignity and honor.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, Aug. 19, at Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center, LaPorte, with Pastor Allen Wright officiating. Burial, with Military Honors, will follow at Pine Lake Cemetery, LaPorte. Visitation will be held from 10 a.m. until the service Monday at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations to VNA Hospice, 501 Marquette St., Valparaiso, IN 46383; or to LPHS Athletic Dept., 602 F St., LaPorte, IN 46350.

Messages of condolences may be posted below on WNLP as well as at www.cutlercares.com.

Ellen Burgess, 1937-2019

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Ellen H. Burgess, 81, of Michigan City, IN, passed away Tuesday, Aug. 13, 2019, at Life Care Center of Michigan City in Michigan City, IN.

She was born Dec. 9, 1937, in Steubenville, OH, the daughter of James Morelli and Virginia (Neust) Morelli.

Ellen was a former member of the Empire Methodist Church in Steubenville, instructor for Beauty College in Michigan City for 8 years, owner/operator of Pirates Cove in New Buffalo, MI, and owner/operator of Upholstery Company. She spent her spare time taking food to bereaved families. She was also contacted by the Police Department and accompanied them to homes of domestic violence where children were present. Ellen would care for the children until they were placed in foster care or returned to their families. Her hobbies included: sewing, reading Christian, Amish and romance novels, and playing piano.

On March 4, 1959, she married James Burgess, who preceded her in death Oct. 3, 2013.

She is survived by her daughter, Susan (Ed) Aikman of Hamlet, IN; two sons, Cory (Candi) Burgess of Michigan City, IN, and Michael (Amanda) Burgess of Bradenton, FL; 11 grandchildren, Jennifer Hennis, Natasha Burgess, Marcie Burgess, Cory Burgess Jr., Carisa Burgess, Charlee Burgess, Shellie Schoof, Heather Vann, Laredo Burgess, Hunter Burgess, and Katie Burgess; many great-grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews; brother, Roland Morelli; and four sisters, Orega Yanik, Victoria Kosar, June Laughery and Madeline Baker.

Ellen was preceded in death by her parents; daughter, Brenda Burgess; son, James Burgess Jr.; sister, Mary Morelli; brother, Joseph Morelli; brother, Frankie Morelli; sister, Rose Zink; and brother, James Morelli.

Services will be held at a later date. Haverstock Funeral Home and Cremation Services, LaPorte, is handling arrangements.

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.

Lora-Lee Snyder, 1932-2019

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Lora-Lee Snyder, 86, of Walkerton, IN, entered into eternal rest on Saturday, Aug. 10, 2019, at her home with her children at her side.

She was born in Chicago, IL, on Sept. 22, 1932, to Albert Frederick II and Elly Jean (Lunde) Nyland.

Lora-Lee was a homemaker. She had a strong faith and was an active member of Bethany Lutheran Church for the past 20 years. In her younger years, she taught preschool Sunday school for over 20 years at St. John’s Lutheran Church. Lora-Lee enjoyed attending her Monday and Thursday ladies’ Bible studies, as well as her monthly senior luncheons with her church family. She also enjoyed participating in Christian women’s luncheons and a Christian book club. Lora-Lee was a member of the Monday night ladies’ study, know as the “Bible Babes.” In addition to her church activities, she loved spending time with her family and friends, watching NASCAR, reading, shopping, and playing cards.

On Nov.r 15, 1952, in Chicago, she married Henry Snyder, who preceded her in death.

Surviving are her children, Dawn Cauffman of LaPorte, IN, Henry (Martha) Snyder of LaPorte, Robert (Terri) Snyder of LaPorte, Edward (Beth) Snyder of Fish Lake, Denise (Mike) Doig of Fish Lake, Debbie (Rodd) Bell of Mill Creek, IN, Andy (Denise) Snyder of Rolling Prairie, IN, Dorene (Paul) Lloyd of Mill Creek, and Diane (Rich) Cruz of Fish Lake; daughter-in-law, Jeanne Snyder of Milwaukee, WI; 23 grandchildren, Michelle (Reefe) Wilson, Kristin (Kurt) Flierl, Shaun (Amy) Snyder, Racheal (Damian) Turner, Symone (Joe) Hetzel, Luke (Nicole) Snyder, Hannah (Nolan) Weeks, James Snyder, Ashley (Ryan) Knoll, Libby (Tabor) Wilson, Kim Snyder, Joshua (Nikki) Snyder, Jonah (Erin) Snyder, Ian (Jimmy) Doig, Sam Doig, Nicole (Tom) Agorichas, Stephanie (Matt) Krueger, Sabrina (Brian) Crail, Caleb Bell, Lauryn Snyder, Paul (Heather) Lloyd, Abigail Lloyd, and Mary Lloyd; 35 great-grandchildren; sister, Norma (Charles) Kesling of Las Vegas, NV; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; sons, Stephen and Richard “Duke” Snyder; son-in-law, Doug Cauffman; and brother, Albert F. Nyland III.

A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 24, at Bethany Lutheran Church, 102 G St., LaPorte, with Pastor Dennis Meyer officiating. Visitation will be at the church Saturday from 9 a.m. until the service. Cremation has taken place with Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center, LaPorte. Interment will take place at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be directed to The Center for Hospice Care, Hospice Foundation, 501 Comfort Place, Mishawaka, IN 46545-5234; or Bethany Lutheran Memorial Fund, 102 G St., LaPorte, IN 46350.

Michael “Mike” Cook, 1963-2019

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Michael “Mike” Cook, 56, of Walkerton, IN, joined his family in heaven on Wednesday, Aug. 14, 2019, in his home with his daughters at his side.

He was born Feb. 24, 1963, in Greenfield, TN, to Wendell and Vanda (Roark) Cook.

Mike worked as a Mechanic Equipment Operator and other various positions for over 14 years with his NIPSCO “brothers.” He was baptized at Salem Chapel United Methodist Church. Mike enjoyed working with horses, camping, good food, and spending quality time with his family and friends. A tough cowboy with a dog at his side and a heart of gold, Michael was a man who enjoyed the simple things in life and shared them with unbridled joy. He cared about people, always had good advice, and became a father figure to more than his own.

On Aug. 29, 1992, he married the light of his life, Carol (Schrader) Cook, who preceded him in death.

Surviving are his daughters, Dakota and Bailee Cook; mother, Vanda (Roark) Cook; siblings, Wendell Cook (Nina Hargis) and Kari Keller; nieces, Kelsey Hulecki and Chazney Keller; nephews, Jason Cook and Justin Cook; and many in-law relatives.

He was preceded in death by his father, Wendell Cook, and son, Lattigo Michael Cook.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 11 a.m. CST on Tuesday, Aug. 20, at Salem Chapel United Methodist Church, LaPorte. Visitation will be held at the church from 3 to 7 p.m. CST Monday, Aug. 19, and from 10 a.m. CST until the service Tuesday. Burial will follow the service at Salem Cemetery, LaPorte. Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center, LaPorte, is handling arrangements.

Memorial contributions in honor of Michael A. Cook may be made to the donor’s choice.

Messages of condolences may be posted below on WNLP as well as at www.cutlercares.com.

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