This page has death notices of interest to members of the Mishawaka High School Class of 1968, from Mishawaka, Indiana.

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Paula Lampert's father, Palmer E. Lampert, died June 27, 2010. He was 84. Born in Mishawaka, he served in the U.S. Army during World War II. He worked at Bendix for 36 years and was a member of UAW Local 9 and VFW Post 360. He was also the father of Barbara Lampert (MHS '71) and Theodore Lampert (MHS '82). Paula's mother died in September 1984.

Larry Karnes' father, Robert A. Karnes, died June 17, 2010, in South Bend. He was 83. Born in Osceola, he served in the U.S. Navy during World War II. In May 1947, at Mishawaka's St. Monica Catholic Church, he married Betty Lou LaCava. He was a self-employed carpenter for 40 years. Mr. Karnes was also the father of Ronald Karnes (MHS '70) and Robert Karnes (died in 1978). Larry's mother died in May 1997.

Barbara Kopec's father, Casimer William Kopec, died June 13, 2010, at his home in Mishawaka, as Barb held him in her arms. He was 89. Born in South Bend, he marrried Ann Kandlstorfer in January 1942 in New Carlisle. He served in the U.S. Army during World War II. Over the years, he supported his family working for the Indiana Toll Road and as a groundskeeper for Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens. Mr. Kopec was also the father of Judy Kopec (MHS '64), Patricia Kopec, Becky Kopec, and Casey (Casimer Jr.) Kopec. Barb's mother survives.

Bob Van Arsdale's mother, Geneva L. (Handley) Van Arsdale, died June 6, 2010. She was 80. Born in Morroco, Indiana, she married Lloyd Van Arsdale in Mishawaka in July 1948. She was also the mother of Judy Van Arsdale (MHS '70), Joyce Van Arsdale (MHS '71), Roger Van Arsdale (MHS '74), Betty Van Arsdale (MHS '76), Bruce Van Arsdale (MHS '79), Linda Van Arsdale, and Lorna Van Arsdale. Bob lost his father in 1991.

Terry Conway's father, Harry P. Conway, Jr., died June 4, 2010, in South Bend. He was 86. Born in Elkhart, he graduated from Elkhart Central High School in 1941. He married Kathleen "Kitty" M. Weesner in July 1947, in Rochester, and he spent his working years as a toolmaker. Mr. Conway was also the father of Robert Conway. Terry's mother survives.

Brenda Burkett's father, Richard L. Burkett, died May 22, 2010, in South Bend. He was 79. Born in South Bend, he married Phyllis Loutzenhiser in January 1950. He supported his family by working first at Studebaker and then, for 30 years, at UniRoyal, and he attended church at Grace Methodist. Mr. Burkett was also the father of Linda Burkett (MHS '70) and Gary Burkett (MHS '75). Brenda's mother survives.

Sharon Gill's mother, Harriet Esther (Soule) Gill, died May 17, 2010, in Mishawaka. She was 81. Born in Mishawaka, she married Ralph K. Gill in July 1949. Mrs. Gill birthed six children, served as a PTA president, was a Camp Fire Girls leader, and enjoyed genealogical research. She was a member of Michiana Community Church of God. Mrs. Gill was also the mother of Robert (who died as an infant), Georgia (MHS '70), Deborah (who died at age 10), Dwayne, and David. Sharon's father died in 2008.

Lois Rice's brother-in-law, Dennis Houck, died May 12, 2010, in a drowning accident while kayaking on the St. Joseph River. He was 60. He married Sharon Rice (MHS '69) in August 1972. Sharon survives, along with their son, their daughter, and their four grandchildren. Dennis was a deacon in his church and a master carpenter.

Paul Michael Huyvaert, MHS 1968, died April 14, 2010, in South Bend. Born July 6, 1950, in Mishawaka, he grew up on Manor Drive, north of Lincolnway East and next to the river. Paul had a stroke in 2002 and spent his last years dealing with the resulting disabilities. He is survived by two daughters and two granddaughters.

Diana Costa's father, Edward George Costa, died February 28, 2010, in Elkhart. He was 88. Born in Cambridge, Massachusetts, he served in the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II. He married Wilma Marie Shirk in May 1946 at St. Monica's Church. He and Mrs. Costa made the family home on North Main Street where they raised their eight children. He supported his family working as a press operator at Ball Band. He welcomed his children's friends at his home, and he was always one of the first parents to volunteer to drive kids to school and sporting events. Mr. Costa served for several years as a Democratic Party precinct committeeman. He was also the father of Cynthia Costa (MHS '66), Anita Costa (MHS '70), Donald Costa (MHS '73), Marlena Costa (MHS '77), Philip Costa (MHS '78), Brian Costa (MHS '85), and Gregory Costa (deceased). Diana's mother died in 2004.

Karen Barber and Richard Barber's father, Richard B. Barber, Sr., died February 7, 2010, in Las Vegas, Nevada. He was 82. Born in Indiana, he married Marilyn Wilson in Mishawaka in March 1948. Mr. Barber's working years were spent at Dodge Mfg. in Mishawaka. He and his wife moved to Las Vegas in 1993. He also was the father of Gary Barber. Karen and Richard's mother survives.

Tom Hummer's mother, Georgia Ruth (Dull) Hummer, died February 4, 2010, in South Bend. She was 90. Born in Iowa, she married Robert Joseph Hummer in November 1942, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Mrs. Hummer attended mass at St. Bavo Catholic Church, was a member of the St. Joseph Regional Medical Auxiliary, and volunteered at the hospital for many years. Tom lost his father in 1972.

Cheryl Pullin's father, Eugene Arthur Pullin, died January 28, 2010, in his home in North Liberty. He was 81. Born in Mishawaka, Mr. Pullin was a member of the Mishawaka High Class of 1946. He served in the U.S. Army in Korea in from 1946 to 1948, and he again served in the Army from 1950 to 1951. He married Cheryl's mom, Janet Crist, in August 1949. Mr. Pullin was a Mason and a member of the Scottish Rite of South Bend Valley and the Orak Shrine of Michigan City. He enjoyed wood working, boat building, mechanics, and Ford Model "A" restorations. He also was the father of Scott Pullin and Kathy Pullin. Cheryl's mother survives.

Colleen Marguerite Deal (Mrs. Seltzer), MHS 1968, died January 4, 2010, at her home in Rudyard, Michigan. Born June 3, 1950, in South Bend, she grew up on West Broadway. Colleen is survived by her husband, two sons, and her mother. She lost a daughter in 1996 when her daughter was five years old. Colleen was active in Hiawatha Shore to Shore, building trails and leading hikes. She was skilled at flora and fauna indentification, enjoyed bird watching, fishing, and cross country skiing.

Chuck and Larry Van Camp's mother, Patricia A. (Housand) Van Camp, died December 8, 2009, at her home in Mishawaka. She was 80. Born in Indiana, she married Charles Alfred Van Camp, Sr., in July 1947 in Mishawaka when she was 16 years old. She became a mother two months before her 20th birthday. Mrs. Van Camp was also the mother of Deb Van Camp and Jean Van Camp (MHS '72). Larry and Chuck's father survives.

Doug Overman's mother, Rose Marie (Dillman) Overman, died November 22, 2009, in South Bend. She was 84. Born in Huntington, Indiana, she married Dr. Melvin Overman in May 1946. For 37 years, she managed Dr. Overman's office. She was a published poet and a member of Mishawaka's First Methodist Church. Mrs. Overman was also the mother of Ken Overman (MHS '69). Doug lost his father in 1995.

Larry Liffick's mother, Ora M. (Madden) Liffick, died November 19, 2009, in South Bend. She was 84. Born in Magnolia, Kentucky, she married Francis "Boots" Liffick in December 1943. She and her husband moved their family to Mishawaka in 1957. Mrs. Liffick worked for many years at UniRoyal and was active in both the Ladies Auxiliary of VFW and the Eagles Ladies Auxiliary. She raised her three children on Baker Street. Mrs. Liffick was also the mother of Deborah Liffick (MHS '70) and the late Rita Liffick (MHS '66). Larry lost his father in 2003.

Ron DeBlock's wife, Debra L. (Holycross) DeBlock, died November 13, 2009, in South Bend. She was part of the MHS Class of 1969. Ron and their three daughters survive.

William Slates' mother, Vada Mae (Engdahl) Slates, died October 21, 2009. She was 82. Born in South Bend, she married Duncan Slates in October 1945 in South Bend. She was also the mother of two daughters, Connie and Donna. For many years, Mrs. Slates owned and operated the Burger Dairy Store on Milburn Avenue.  She worshipped at Osceola United Methodist Church. William lost his father in February 2005.

Judy Ann Blankenhorn (Mrs. Hopper), MHS 1968, died October 14, 2009, at Baptist Hospital in Columbia, South Carolina. Born May 23, 1949, in Kirksville, Missouri, Judy had lived in South Carolina since 1995. She is survived by her mother, her sister (Gail, MHS '69), her two brothers (James and Richard), her son John, her daughter Jennifer, and her six grandchildren. For almost a quarter of a century she was a civil servant with the U.S. Army, working as an administrative assistant with the Soldiers Support Institute. Although she was battling cancer, Judy worked until five days before she died. Judy grew up in the Normain Heights neighborhood; the family home was on Bastogne Avenue. She was a Camp Fire Girl and attended North Side, Battell, and Main Junior High before getting to MHS. She graduated from Patricia Stevens College.

Toby Roose's mother, Irene (Scheffler) Roose, died September 30, 2009. She was 84. Born in Mishawaka, she married Robert Roose on July 30, 1949. Mrs. Roose was also the mother of Cathy Roose and Robert Roose. Toby lost her father in 2002.

Tom Lechlitner's father, William H. Lechlitner, died August 29, 2009. He was 81. Born in Mishawaka, he served in the U.S. Air Force, enlisting in February 1946. He married Hattie Lois Steffens in January 1948, and they made the family home on Dale Street. His working years were spent at Bendix. He was a member of Mishawaka's St. Andrew's United Church of Christ and enjoyed boating, fishing, camping, and gardening. He was also the father of Margaret Lechlitner, Herbert Lechlitner, and David Lechlitner. Tom's mother survives.

Connie Kelly's mother, Helen Marie (Brown) Kelly, died August 22, 2009. She was 89. Born in Indianapolis, she was a member Mishawaka High's Class of 1938. She married Lawrence Kelly on September 7, 1940, and had two children. She made the family home on North State street and attended First Presbyterian Church. She also was the mother of Carol Kelly. Connie lost her father in 1985.

Keith DeLaruelle's mother, Juanita Marie (LeMere) DeLaruelle, died July 14, 2009. She was 81. Born in Mishawaka, she was a member of the Mishawaka High School Class of 1946. In addition to raising five children, Mrs. DeLaruelle worked at Woolworth & McLellans in downtown Mishawaka for 24 years. She was a member of Mishawaka's St. Joseph Catholic Church, enjoyed bowling, and loved growing African violets. Mrs. DeLaruelle also was the mother of Lance DeLaruelle, Randy DeLaruelle (MHS '71), Teresa DeLaruelle, and Kevin DeLaruelle (MHS '74). Keith's father survives.

Steven Louis "Steve" Hazen, MHS 1968, died July 3, 2009, in Mishawaka. Born July 2, 1948, in Mishawaka, Steve lived in Hawaii for 25 years before returning to Mishawaka. He is survived by his mother, Bertie Sue (Biggs) (Hazen) Gunn, and by his siblings: Archie (MHS '66), Dale, Tony (MHS '76), and Debbie. Steve's father, Louis Hazen, Jr., died in 1978, and two brothers died in years past: Ronald in 1970, and D. Bruce in 1981.

Brenda Pfaller's husband, Robert G. Dhaeze, died July 1, 2009. He was 72.

Brenda Pfaller's father, Richard LaVon Pfaller, died May 31, 2009. He was 85. He was born in Mishawaka and graduated from Mishawaka High in 1942. One of his classmates at MHS was Mary Jane Hall. A little over a year after they graduated from MHS, the young couple married. Mr. Pfaller served in the U.S. Navy from 1943 until 1945. He worked at Studebaker's for 20 years, then at Miles Labs. He and his wife were active at the First Methodist Church, and Mr. Pfaller was a Mason. Mary Jane died in March 2008. They were also the parents of Bradley Pfaller.

Al Marchant's mother, Laura "Kreth" (Armstrong) Marchant, died May 22, 2009, in Mishawaka. She was 97. Born in Mishawaka, she married Harold R. Marchant in June 1931 in St. Joseph County. She was a homemaker who enjoyed her plants, her pets, her needlework, and her motorcycles. She spent summers at the family cottage on Magician Lake in Michigan and attended church at St. James Episcopal Cathedral in South Bend. She also was the mother of Harold "Hal" Marchant, Jr. Al lost his father in 1981.

Connie Micinski's mother, Mary Jane (Varda) Weber, died May 7, 2009, in Mishawaka. She was 81. Born in Mishawaka, she married LaVern E. Micinski in July 1945. She and Mr. Micinski had seven children before he died in 1967. In September 1968, she married Thomas W. Weber. She attended mass at St. Bavo Catholic Church. At one time, she was a crossing guard for children at Bingham School, and she had worked at West End Bakery. Mrs. Weber also was the mother of Cheryle Micinski (MHS '64), Sandy Micinski, Chet Micinski (MHS '69), Lonnie Micinski (MHS '70), Steven Micinski, and Melissa Micinski.

John Martino's son, Nick, died April 24, 2009, in New York.

Willie Shannon's mother, Henrietta (Parker) Shannon, died March 28, 2009, in Elkhart. She was 91. Born in Missouri, she married Jesse Joseph Shannon in 1945 in Arkansas. She attended church at the New Apostolic Church, and she volunteered with the Foster Grandparent Program. Mrs. Shannon also was the mother of Constance Shannon, Jesse Shannon (MHS '66, deceased), and Blanche C. Shannon (MHS '69). Willie lost his father in 1969.

Frances L. Barfell (Mrs. Graybill), MHS 1968, died March 14, 2009, in Arkansas in an automobile accident. She was born January 31, 1950. She moved to Arkansas after 1998. After living in Arkansas, she met the man who became her second husband, John Graybill. One of her joys in the last years of her life was deep sea fishing with her husband. Fran is survived by her husband, and by her children, Rhonda Darnell and Anthony Darnell.

Gary Rodich's father, Pete Rodich, died March 14, 2009, in Mishawaka. He was 83. Born in Gary, Indiana, he grew up in Shephardsville, Indiana. During World War II, he served in the 1st Army 3rd Armored Division and fought at the Battle of the Bulge. On July 4, 1947, in Clinton, Indiana, he married Ruth E. Cinotto. He was an operating engineer and was a member of IUOE #150; in the 1980s, he served as business representative for the union. He was a St. Joseph County Highway Commissioner before being elected to the Mishawaka City Council. He was a member of the City Council from 1980 to 1992. Governor Bayh awarded Mr. Rodich the Distinguished Hoosier award in 1991, and in 1996 Gov. Bayh named Mr. Rodich a Sagamore of the Wabash. Mr. Rodich also was the father of Terry Jo Rodich (MHS '74). Gary's mother survives.

Lew Gushwa's mother, Ruth E. (Gerard) Gushwa, died February 5, 2009, in South Bend. She was 80. Born in Mishawaka, she married Lewis Harold Gushwa at the First Baptist Church in South Bend on October 2, 1945. She worked at Raco for 40 years before retiring in 1985. Mrs. Gushwa also was the mother of Judy Gushwa, Stacy Gushwa, and Tracy Gushwa. Lew lost his father in March 1997.

Richard A. Stuff, MHS 1968, died December 21, 2008, in St. Joseph Regional Medical Center in South Bend. Born July 18, 1950, he was a machinist with Master Metal, Dodges, and Universal Bearing. He was an outdoors enthusiast and an animal lover. He is survived by his mother, Margaret Stuff of Marcellus, Michigan; by his wife of 14 years Linda (Lackey); by his daughters Laura and Jennifer; by five grandchildren, and by his brothers Thomas (MHS '69), Larry (MHS '70), Roger (MHS '71), and Donald.

Karen Williams' mother, Mable (Faulkner) Williams, died October 28, 2008, in Crown Point, Indiana. She was 81. Born in Waterloo, Alabama, she married Vernon Boyd Williams in January 1949 in Corinth, Mississippi. They moved from Waterloo to Mishawaka in 1953 and lived on East Third Street for many years. Mrs. Williams was the valedictorian of her high school graduating class in 1945 (Waterloo High School). She was a member of the New Life Church in Osceola and a volunteer at the Mishawaka St. Joseph Hospital. Karen lost her father in April 1974.

Walt Eakins, MHS 1968, died October 11, 2008, in Memorial Hospital in South Bend. He died as a result of cancer. Born June 28, 1949, in Mishawaka, he had lived in the area his entire life. Until he became ill, he was the store manager of the CVS Pharmacy in Bremen. He is survived by his wife of five years, Brenda; by his daughter, Kimberly; by his sons Kevin, Neal, and Austin; by six grandchildren, and by his siblings: Linda, Trudy, Leoneta, Chuck (MHS '70), Rudy, and Patrick. Walt was a first cousin to Byron Aldrich (MHS '68); Byron's mother was Walt's paternal aunt.

Alecia Brazeau's mother, Emma (Televik) Brazeau, died October 11, 2008, in Memorial Hospital in South Bend. She was 81. Born in Cambridge, Wisconsin, she married William H. Brazeau in October 1947. They moved to Indiana in 1952 and lived on Lincoln Way East for many years. Mrs. Brazeau had worked at UniRoyal and at the Holy Cross House at Notre Dame. She also was the mother of Sharon Brazeau (MHS '65), Mary Ellen Brazeau (MHS '69, deceased), and Julie Brazeau. Alecia lost her father in April 1973.

Terry Crothers' father, Leonard L. Crothers, died August 24, 2008, in South Bend. He was 92. Born in Bremen, he married Arline E. Crites in April 1949 in Butler. Mr. Crothers served in the U.S. Army during WW II, and he spent his working years as a machine operator at Bendix / Allied Signal. One of his life's pleasures was fishing. Mr. Crothers was also the father of Richard Crothers (MHS '57). Terry's mother survives.

Susie Sierens' mother, Irene M. (Holcomb) Sierens, died August 18, 2008, at her home in Mishawaka. She was 81. Born in South Bend, she married Frank Sierens in St. Joseph County in April 1948. Mrs. Sierens also was the mother of Sally Sierens (MHS '71), Sandy Sierens, and Larry Sierens. Susie lost her father in 1998.

Stephen Reese's mother, Virginia W. (Liechty) Reese, died August 18, 2008, in South Bend. She was 92. Born in Clay City, Indiana, she graduated from Indiana State University in 1938 and married Paul Reese in June 1943 in Rapid City, South Dakota. She went on to earn a master's degree in education from St. Mary's College and taught kindergarten in Mishawaka for 32 years. She was a pianist and a violinist, and she attended church at Mishawaka's First United Methodist Church. Mrs. Reese also was the mother of Mary Reese. Steve's father survives.

Linda Holland's father, James T. "Tom" Holland, died July 24, 2008, at his home in Mishawaka. He was 87. Born in East St. Louis, Illinois, he served in the U.S. Army Air Force during WW II. In July 1946, Mr. Holland married Celeste Hayden in Union City, Tennessee. They moved to Mishawaka in 1954 and made the family home on West 11th Street, and later on West 13th Street. Mr. Holland retired in 1986 from Mishawaka Utilities after 23 year of service. He also was the father of Glynn Richard Holland. Linda's mother survives.

Becky Gevaert's father, Eugene A. "Geno" Gevaert, died June 24, 2008, in Mishawaka. He was 82. Born in Mishawaka, he married Betty Fay Whitfield in January 1948 at Mishawaka's First Baptist Church, seven months after his bride graduated from MHS. When he wasn't working supporting his family, he enjoyed NASCAR, camping, and bowling. Mr. Gevaert also was the father of Thomas Gevaert (MHS '71), Randy Gevaert, Daniel Gevaert, and Lisa Gevaert. Becky's mother survives.

Sharon Gill's father, Ralph Kenneth Gill, Jr., died June 15, 2008, in Mishawaka on Father's Day. He was 78. Born in Mishawaka, he married Harriet Soule in July 1949. He supported his family over the years by working at Silvercup Bakery, at Studebaker's, at Patrick Industries, and by owning and operating The Avenue Restaurant on Mishawaka Avenue in Mishawaka. Mr. Gill served in the National Guard, was active with CB radios (as "Arkie"), had volunteered with Boy Scouts, and was an usher at Mishawaka's First Church of God and the Community Church of God. He enjoyed gardening, woodworking, and going to church campgrounds at Yellow Creek. Mr. Gill also was the father of Georgia Gill (MHS '70), Dwayne Gill (MHS '73), David Gill, and two children who pre-deceased him: Debra Gill (died 1967) and Robert Gill (died 1949). Sharon's mother survives.

Pam McCarter's sister, Linda (McCarter) Zultanski, died June 12, 2008, in South Bend. She was 61. Linda was part of the MHS Class of 1965 and grew up in Normain Heights. She is survived by her husband, their two sons, and three grandchildren. She had worked in South Bend at Cardinal Nursing home and at NCO Collection Service. Linda was Pam's only sibling. Pam lost her dad in 1991 and her mother in 2006.

James Carnes' mother, Waneta J. (Newcomer) Carnes, died May 28, 2008, in Mishawaka's St. Joseph Hospital. She was 86. Born in Indiana, she grew up in Mishawaka and graduated from MHS in 1940. She married Clyde Chester Carnes, Jr., in February 1946 at Mishawaka's First United Methodist Church, and they made their home on East 4th Street. Mrs. Carnes also was the mother of Thomas A. Carnes (died August 1968) and Howard R. Carnes (also deceased). She was widowed in 1999 when Jim's father died.

Bob Ruthrauff's mother, Ardie J. (Kay) Ruthrauff, died April 13, 2008, in Tucson, Arizona. She was 84. Bob died in July 2007. Born in Ashmore, Illinois, she married Charles F. Ruthrauff in 1946. In addition to Bob, Mrs. Ruthrauff had four children: Edith Ruthrauff (MHS '65), Joe Ruthrauff (MHS '70), Bill Ruthrauff (MHS '75), and Jim Ruthrauff. She attended Mass at Mishawaka's St. Joseph Catholic Church and was one of the first women real estate agents in the Michiana area. For the last several years, Mrs. Ruthrauff had lived in Green Valley, Arizona. She enjoyed playing bridge and golf and teaching her grandchildren how to knit. She was widowed in 2004 when Bob's father died. She leaves seven grandchildren.

Patricia A. Collins (Mrs. Fisher), MHS 1968, died March 23, 2008, in South Bend. Born December 16, 1949, in Mishawaka, Patricia is survived by her sons John Fisher and Bobby Fisher, Jr., and by six grandchildren. Patricia lost a daughter, Michele Rae Fisher, in 1967.

Bill Boler's mother, Helen (Kay) Boler, died March 11, 2008, in Hanford, California, while visiting family.  She was 80. Born in Salem, Arkansas, she was the granddaughter of Arkansas Senator Joseph L. Short. She married Jewel Boler on October 2, 1945. The couple moved to Mishawaka where they lived for more than 50 years. Mrs. Boler was a member of Mishawaka's Church of Christ on Laurel Street. In her family's words, "She will be remembered for her beauty, style, wit, and devotion to those she loved." She was also the mother of Charles Boler (MHS '66) and Rebecca Boler (MHS '73). Bill's father died in 1999. 

Brenda Pfaller's mother, Mary Jane (Hall) Pfaller, died March 9, 2008, in Mishawaka.  She was 83. Born in Mishawaka, Mrs. Pfaller was a member of the MHS Class of 1942. On September 18, 1943, in Mishawaka, she married Richard Pfaller (MHS '42). For 20 years, she was a secretary at Mishawaka's First United Methodist Church, where she was an active member for her entire life. She was also the mother of Bradley Pfaller (MHS '64). Brenda's father survives. 

Mrs. Mary Rachel (Lancet) Armel died February 29, 2008, in South Bend. She was 92. For the MHS Class of 1968, she was an art teacher.  Born in Center Point, Indiana, she graduated from Indiana State University and taught in Huntington and North Manchester and in Pittsburgh, PA, before teaching in Mishawaka. She married Kenneth Armel in August 1948, in Terre Haute; Mr. Armel died in 2004. Mrs. Armel retired in 1977 as art coordinator with the School City of Mishawaka. She is survived by a son, Dr. Donald Armel, and a granddaughter.

Rosemarie Wilkins' brother, Paul D. Wilkins, died February 29, 2008, in Mishawaka as a result of cancer. Paul was 55.

Linda Marie Jasiewicz (Mrs. Wiedlocher), MHS 1968, died February 27, 2008, in Las Cruces, New Mexico. Born September 6, 1950, in Mishawaka, Linda had spent most of her adult life in Las Cruces. She was a nurse. She is survived by her husband, Carl Wiedlocher, by her daughters Jessica and Leslie; by granddaughters Cera, Mikayla, and Julie; and by her sisters, Chris, Victoria, and Sandra.

Sue Ann Fagan (Class of '67) lost her husband to death on January 29, 2008. She had married Dennis VanPoppel on April 3, 1971. Sue Ann and Dennis had three daughters and two sons; all survive.

Martha Jo Probst's father, Justin Louis "Judd" Probst, died January 25, 2008, in Mishawaka.  He was 84. Born in Jackson Michigan, his family moved to the Mishawaka area when he was young.  Mr. Probst was a member of the MHS Class of 1942. He served in the U.S. Army during WW II and was in combat in the Battle of the Bulge.  He married Harriett A. Arnold on August 9, 1947, in St. Joseph County.  Over the years, Mr. Probst worked as a manager at Sears, worked as a salesman at Deco Art in Elkhart, and was co-owner of Alexanian Brothers Carpets.  He enjoyed boating, waterskiing, and horseback riding.  Martha's mother survives.   

Mr. Robert J. Ernst died January 15, 2008, at his home in Goshen, five days short of his 72nd birthday. He was the science teacher for the members of the Class of '68 who were at Main Junior High. Born in Mishawaka, Mr. Ernst attended St. Joseph Elementary School in Mishawaka and St. Joseph High School in South Bend. He earned both his bachelor's and master's degrees from University of Notre Dame. He taught in Mishawaka schools for 41 years and ran the city's planetarium for 21 years. Mr. Ernst was married twice. By his first wife, Juanita, he had two daughters: Susanna and Rosemary; Juanita died in 1999. Three years later, Mr. Ernst married LaVonne Graber; she survives. Also surviving are a granddaughter, five sisters and a brother.

Jerry Heiser's mother, Helen Marie (Kuhn) Heiser, died January 7, 2008, in Mishawaka. She was 79. Born in Mishawaka, she graduated from MHS with the Class of 1945. Two years later, on May 3, 1947, in St. Joseph County, she married William Anthony Heiser, Jr., also from the MHS Class of '45. She was a lifetime resident of Mishawaka until 1995 when she and her husband moved to Punta Gorda, Florida; she returned to Mishawaka only recently. Mrs. Heiser was a member of Mishawaka's St. Joseph Catholic Church, raised her four children in Mishawaka, and worked as office support staff, first for a a doctor, then for an insurance business. In recent years, she crocheted baby blankets for charity. Mrs. Heiser also was the mother of Lawrence Heiser (MHS '67), Barbara Heiser (MHS '70), and Susan Heiser (MHS '72). Jerry's father died in November 2002.

Joyce Darnell's mother, Phyllis (Ziegler) Darnell, died January 2, 2008, at Joyce's home in Mishawaka. Mrs. Darnell was 80; she was born in Mishawaka and had lived in the area most of her life. She married Jerry T. Darnell on August 7, 1948, in St. Joseph County. Over the years, Mrs. Darnell worked at Ball Band, at Mossberg Printing, and as a school crossing guard in Mishawaka. She had been active in the women's auxiliaries of the VFW and the American Legion. After Joyce's father died in 1980, Mrs. Darnell lived in Florida for 20 years before returning to the Mishawaka area. Mrs. Darnell was also the mother of Joseph Darnell (MHS '70) and Jeffrey Darnell (MHS '75).

Mrs. Elizabeth Ann (Doyle) Beard died December 8, 2007, in Mishawaka at Beverly Living Center (Countryside) on E. 12th Street. She had resided there since May 2006. She was a month short of her 87th birthday. She was born in Norman Co., Minnesota, to Itha Elmer and Mary Louise (Payne) Doyle. In May 1942 in St. Joseph Co., she married William Smith. The couple had two children, Billie Smith (MHS '62) and Jo Smith (MHS '65). Elizabeth Ann and her first husband divorced in April 1947. In November 1949 in South Bend, she married Miles Beard. She and her second husband had four children: Alice Beard (MHS '68), Jes Beard (MHS '73), Dale Lester Beard (MHS '77), and Rex Beard (MHS '82). From late 1949 until early 2006, Mrs. Beard lived in the Normain Heights neighborhood of Mishawaka. She was widowed in March 2006.

Nancy Mann's husband, Maurice E. Whiteman, died October 14, 2007.  Nancy and Maurice had been married for 30 years. They lost their son to death previously, Maurice, Jr. Maurice was a Masonic Shriner and did much volunteer work over his life. 

Jerry Cavanah's father, Oscar Cavanah, Jr., died October 5, 2007, at his home in Mishawaka. He was 84. Born in Webster County, Kentucky, Mr. Cavanah served in the U.S. Coast Guard during WW II. He married Mamie L. Jones on July 24, 1948. During our high-school years, the couple made the family home on North Wenger. Mr. Cavanah retired after 30 years at UniRoyal. He enjoyed woodworking and gardening and was a member of Albright United Methodist Church, the V.F.W., and the F.O.E. Mr. Cavanah was also the father of Brenda Cavanah (MHS '67) and Glenna Cavanah (MHS '80). Jerry lost his mother in 1996.

Patricia DeLaurelle's mother, Elizabeth Mary (Demske) DeLaurelle, died September 26, 2007, in Riviera Beach, Florida. She was 84. Born in Mishawaka, Mrs. DeLaurelle was a 1942 graduate of MHS. On September 5, 1942, in St. Joseph County, she married Joseph DeLaurelle. The couple made the family home on E. 16th Street during our high-school years. Pat lost her father in 1981.

Steve Wiseman's father, Carlton Lyle "Carl" Wiseman, died September 23, 2007, in Mishawaka, at Countryside Place Nursing Home. He was 81. Born in Mishawaka, he was a 1945 graduate of MHS and served in the U.S. Army during WW II. On March 6, 1948, in Mishawaka, he married Leona G. Gear (MHS '47). The couple made the family home on W. 11th Street during our high-school years. A graduate of Ball State University, Mr. Wiseman taught and coached at MHS, coaching track, basketball, and crosscountry. He was also the father of Doug Wiseman (MHS '70), Jim Wiseman (MHS '71), and Brian Wiseman (MHS '76). Steve lost his mother less than six months ago.

Patricia Heston's father, Kenneth C. Heston, died August 26, 2007, in South Bend in St. Paul's Retirement Community. He was 87. Born in Tippecanoe, Indiana, he was a lifelong Hoosier. Mr. Heston was a 1938 graduate of MHS and the founder of the MHS Boosters Club. On June 5, 1939, in St. Joseph County, he married Martha M. Landuyt (MHS '39). The couple made the family home on East 10th Street, in Mishawaka. A former Mishawaka police officer, Mr. Heston also worked as a machinist at Wheelabrator and served in the U.S. Army during WW II. He was active in the fast-pitch softball sport for over 40 years; coached basketball and softball at St. Bavo's; was a Mason and a Shriner; and was a member of VFW Post 360 and the Mishawaka BK Club. Mr. Heston was also the father of Kenneth Heston (MHS '57), Charles Heston (MHS '59), and Phillip Heston (MHS '67). Pat's mother died in 1991.

David James "Jim" Zeigler, MHS 1968, died July 19, 2007, in Goshen. Born April 19, 1949, in South Bend, he worked as a printer for 30 years. He enjoyed gardening, woodworking, and collecting antiques. In December 2006, he moved from Mishawaka to Plymouth. He is survived by two brothers and five sisters: Harry, Richard, Carolyn, Barbara, Sandra, Sharon, and Sue.

Robert Charles "Bob" Ruthrauff, MHS 1968, died July 13, 2007, in Mishawaka. Born February 23, 1950, in Chicago, Illinois, he was a lifelong resident of Mishawaka. He is survived by his wife of 31 years, Kristine (Longbrake), and their daughter, Ashley.  Bob worked in the parts department at Dometic Corp. in Elkhart for 30 years before retiring. He dealt with juvenile diabetes and epilepsy for most of his life. He loved baseball and had an encyclopedic knowledge of the game. Bob also is survived by his mother (Ardie Ruthrauff), by his sister, Edie (MHS '65), and by his brothers Joe (MHS '70), Bill ('75), and Jim.

Hilary "Doc" Asher's brother, Will Asher, Class of '63, died July 12, 2007, in Watsonville, California, as a result of a heart attack. Will was 62.

Miss Rosa Bell Weikel died July 4, 2007, in Mishawaka. She was 86.  Born in Indiana, she grew up in Mishawaka. She graduated from MHS in 1939, earned her bachelor's degree from Manchester College, and completed her master's at University of Notre Dame. At MHS, Miss Weikel taught art and arranged the Christmas "living scenes." She retired from MHS in 1980 and was able to travel the world, visiting several countries in Europe, Asia, and the former Soviet Union.  

Dave Hoskins' father, William Franklin "Frank" Hoskins, died May 17, 2007, in South Bend's St. Joseph Hospital.  He was 79. Mr. Hoskins was born in Mishawaka and was a member of the MHS Class of 1945.  In July 1949, while in the U.S. Navy and stationed in Escondido, CA, he married Dorothy Jean McCawley.  After Mr. Hoskins' service during the Korean War, the couple made their home in the Normain Heights neighborhood of Mishawaka.  Mr. Hoskins worked at Indiana & Michigan Electric for 39 years.  He was a life member of VFW Post #360 and had served as Post Commander.  Every year, he helped with the Mishawaka Memorial Day parade, serving as committee treasurer and as the official parade starter.  Mr. Hoskins was also the father of Karen Hoskins (MHS '71), Barton Hoskins (MHS '78), and Jayne Hoskins. Dave's mother survives.

Woods Pepperman's wife, Reba M. Pepperman, died May 12, 2007, after a massive heart attack.  Woods and Reba married September 27, 1997. Reba had had heart problems for several years, and Woods had provided the care that her special health needs required.  Woods and Reba moved to Ocala, Florida, in 2006. 

Steve Rodts' father, Maurice Rodts, died May 2, 2007, in his Mishawaka home on W. 14th Street.  He was 92.  He was born in Mishawaka and had spent his entire life in Mishawaka. He married Irene Goethals at St. Bavo's on November 30, 1940. Mr. Rodts worked at Dodge Manufacturing for 50 years, retiring in 1985 as superintendent of maintenance. He was also the father of Joyce Rodts (MHS '60), Philip Rodts (MHS '62, died in 1993), Barbara Rodts (MHS '65), and Daniel Rodts (MHS '76). Steve lost his mother in 1996.

Steve Wiseman's mother, Leona G. (Gear) Wiseman, died April 5, 2007, at Steve's home in Mishawaka. She was 77. A 1947 graduate of MHS, she married Carl Wiseman in March 1948 in St. Joseph County. The couple made the family home on West 11th Street. Mrs. Wiseman was also the mother of Doug Wiseman (MHS '70), Jim Wiseman (MHS '71), and Brian Wiseman ('76). Steve's father survives.

Paul Huyvaert's mother, Patricia A. (Baughman) Huyvaert, died February 10, 2007, at her home in South Bend. She was 76. A 1949 graduate of MHS, she married James J. Huyvaert in June 1949 in Mishawaka. The couple owned and operated Huyvaert's TV in Mishawaka, and the family attended St. Bavo Church. Mrs Huyvaert enjoyed golfing at Erskine Golf Club and was course champion for ten years. She was also the mother of the late Robert Huyvaert (MHS '71), who died in 1993. Paul lost his father in 2002.

Dennis Cackowski's mother, Martina Louise (Speybroeck) Cackowski, died February 8, 2007, at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center in Mishawaka. She was 84. She married John F. Cackowski in 1942 in Mishawaka, at St. Bavo's. The couple made the family home on W. 9th Street and were lifelong parishioners of St. Bavo's. For many years, Mrs. Cackowski worked at the neighborhood bakery, West End Bakery. She was also the mother of Frank Cackowski (MHS '61). Dennis and Frank lost their father in 1991.

Jim Hallaert's father, George A. Hallaert, died January 19, 2007, in Greenville County, South Carolina. He was 84. Mr. Hallaert was a member of St. Bavo Catholic Church. Jim's mother died in 2002; Jim died in May 1983.

Mike Natali and Cosimo Natali's father, Louis A. Natali, died January 5, 2007. Born in Gallipoli, Italy, he was 85. During World War II, Mr. Natali served in the U.S. Air Force, 331st Air Service Squadron. In 1948 he married Rose Jermano. Mr. Natali was a structural engineer whose design work included the County City Building in South Bend, South Bend's Washington High School, and South Bend's LaSalle High School. He lost his wife in September 2005 after 57 years of marriage. Mr. Natali was also the father of John Natali (MHS '73) and Tony Natali (MHS '79).

Mrs. Shirley Stein died December 14, 2006, at her home in Mishawaka, on the corner of Main Street and Palau Avenue. She was 83. She was the widow of Harold Stein (MHS '38). Their children survive: Joan Stein (MHS '72), Sharon Stein (MHS '74), Lauren Stein (MHS '75), and Mark Stein (MHS '80). Mrs. Stein spent her life as a wife, a mother, and a grandmother, giving service to her community, and adding graciousness and kindness wherever she was.

Ruth Ann Salyer's father, A.B. Salyer, died December 12, 2006, at his Mishawaka home. He was 86. Born in Salyersville, Kentucky, he married Ruth Ann's mother, Juanita Howard, on April 10, 1940; he lost Juanita in May 1956. A year later, he married Agnes Murphy; she survives. He worked for Dodge Manufacturing for 32 years, and for many years he was a member of gospel quartets that performed in the Midwest.

Jimmie Christine Heckaman's mother, Phyllis J. (Housand) Heckaman, died November 25, 2006, in South Bend. She was 79. Born in Indiana, she attended MHS. In January 1945, she married James Heckaman. Over the years, Mrs. Heckaman worked at UniRoyal, at Mishawaka's St. Joseph Hospital, and at Hardee's Mishawaka restaurant. Mrs. Heckamane was also the mother of Sherry Heckaman (MHS '63), Ralph Heckaman (MHS '72), Josette Heckaman (MHS '80), and Jaquenette Heckaman, and the aunt of Chuck Van Camp and Larry Van Camp (MHS '68). Chris' father survives.

Carol Jojo, Class of '69 and Chuck Hoffman's wife, lost her mother November 17, 2006. Elaine Genevieve (Riggs) Jojo died at her home in Mishawaka. She was 82. She married Allie Jojo in January 1945; Mr. Jojo survives. Mrs. Jojo was also the mother of Shirley Jojo (MHS '71) and Allie Jojo, Jr., (MHS '65).

Mrs. LaVerne "teri" Virginia (Huffman) Speiser died October 29, 2006. She was 81. A 1943 graduate of MHS, she served on the Mishawaka School Board, served as an officer of the Beiger Heritage Corporation, helped found the Mishawaka Historic Preservation Commission, and was instrumental in the Normain Heights neighborhood being designated a National Historic District. She was the widow of Dr. G. Frederick Speiser; they married in 1949. Dr. Speiser died in 1999. Their daughters survive: Tammy (MHS '73) and Lisa (MHS '75).

Tom DeLaurelle's mother, Patricia Helen (Cortier) DeLaurelle, died September 23, 2006, in South Bend at Hospice House of St. Joseph County. She was 78. Born in South Bend, she married Tom's father (Edward DeLaurelle) in June 1947 in St. Joseph County. The couple made the family home on Mishawaka's Melville Street during our high-school years. Mrs. DeLaurelle attended Mass at Mishawaka's St. Joseph Church. For 30 years she transported area children to and from school as a bus driver for Penn Harrison Madison Schools. She was also the mother of Bruce DeLaurelle (MHS '65). Tom's father died in 1995.

Carol Gramenz' father, Wesley G. Gramenz, died September 19, 2006, in Mishawaka. He was 81. Born in Des Moines, Iowa, he served in the U.S. Army during World War II. In October 1948, he married Carol's mother (Marilyn Gunnett) in St. Joseph County. The marriage ended, and he married again in 1974. Mr. Gramenz was a member of St. Peter's Lutheran Church.

Miss Martha C. Miller died July 31, 2006, in South Bend at St. Paul's Retirement Community. She was 91.  Born in Utah and educated at Iowa State University and State University of Iowa, Miss Miller taught bookkeeping and business courses at MHS for 37 years. For 20 of those years years she also was faculty advisor to Miskodeed editors.

Pam McCarter's mother, Jacqueline Marie (Murray) McCarter, died July 24, 2006, in South Bend at Holy Cross Care & Rehabilitation Center. She was 84. Born in Rochester, Indiana, she and Pam's father lived in Logansport before moving to Mishawaka in 1949. The family lived in the Normain Heights neighborhood of Mishawaka. Mrs. McCarter was a devoted mother and grandmother, and she was a member of the Eastern Star. She was also the mother of Linda McCarter (MHS '65). Pam's father, Warren McCarter, died in 1991.

Richard Stuff's father, Gordon L. Stuff, died May 31, 2006, at his home in Marcellus, Michigan. He was 77. Born in Mishawaka, Mr. Stuff was a member of the MHS Class of 1946. In April 1948, in St. Joseph County, he married Margaret Van Vynckt. Mr. Stuff was a member of VFW Post 405 and enjoyed fishing and building RC airplanes. He was also the father of Thomas Stuff (MHS '69), Larry Stuff (MHS '70), Roger Stuff (MHS '71), and Donald Stuff. Richard's mother survives.

Alice Marie Beard's father, Miles Griffith Beard, died March 23, 2006, in Mishawaka at Fountainview Place Nursing Home, his home since January 2005.  He was three weeks short of his 88th birthday. Born in Indianapolis, he graduated from South Bend's Central High and attended University of Chicago before joining the military in December 1940.  He served as a master sergeant in the U.S. Army in the Philippines until December 1945, commanding troops in Manila. He was awarded two Bronze Stars. In November 1949, in South Bend, he married Elizabeth Ann Smith née Doyle. Mr. Beard worked at UniRoyal for 30 years before retiring. He was a member of URW Local #65 and for many years a member of the Northern Indiana Philatelic Society. Over his life, he enjoyed stamp collecting, fishing, gardening, working on his cars, and having a good beer. Mr. Beard was also the father of Rex Beard (MHS '82), Dale Lester Beard (MHS '77), and Jes Beard (MHS '73). Alice's mother survives.

Gerald De Wulf's mother, Margaret Hortense (Verslype) De Wulf, died March 5, 2006, in Mishawaka at Countryside Place Nursing Center. She was 91. Born in Silvis, Illinois, in 1914, she moved to Mishawaka in 1923. She married Gaston De Wulf in 1940 at St. Bavo Catholic Church, made the family home on West 12th Street, attended Mass at St. Bavo's, and was active in Girl Scouts. Mrs. De Wulf was also the mother of Christine De Wulf (MHS '61) and Cathryn De Wulf. Gerald lost his father in 1992.

Linda Batten's stepfather, John P. Trainor, Jr., died February 28, 2006, in Elkhart. He was 74. He had been Linda's stepfather since she was 14. Her father died when she was three. Mr. Trainor served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War and worked as a coremaker for 43 years at Elkhart Foundry. Linda's mother survives.

Mary Ann Pechi's mother, Marie (LaCluyse) Pechi, died January 28, 2006, in South Bend at St. Paul's Healthcare Center, with her family at her side. She was 89. Born in Mishawaka in 1916, she married John Pechi in 1939 and had two daughters. Mary Ann was only four months old when her mother was widowed in February 1951. Mrs. Pechi made a home for her daughters on E. 16th St., worked at Beiger Elementary School, and worshipped at St. Bavo's. She was also the mother of Virginia "Ginny" Pechi (MHS '62). In addition to her daughters, Mrs. Pechi is survived by four granddaughters and eight great-grandchildren.

Mrs. Anna Louise (Smith) Gould died December 19, 2005, in Indianapolis. She was 92.  Mrs. Gould moved to Mishawaka in 1961 and was an MHS physical education teacher and cheerleading coach for several years. Born in 1913 in Bar Harbor, Maine, she was educated at Sergeant College for women at Boston University and at Wayne State University. In 1940, she married James Gould. She is survived by three sons.

Connie Hubanks' mother, Florence Mae (Spitler) Hubanks, died December 14, 2005, in Wakarusa. She was 79. She married Ralph Hubanks in January 1945 in St. Joseph County. Mrs. Hubanks also was the mother of Patricia Hubanks, David Hubanks (MHS '69), and Rick Hubanks (MHS '72). Connie lost her father in 1992.

Mrs. Virginia "Ginny" (Rea) Swadener, the mother of Kathy Swadener, Class of '69, died December 8, 2005, in Mishawaka at her home in Normain Heights; she was 76. For 25 years, Mrs. Swadener was the "Puppet Lady" who did weekly puppet shows for children in Mishawaka's elementary schools and libraries. Because of her work, she was honored with Teachers Credit Union's "Michiana 55-Plus Volunteer Award for Education" in 2003. She also served as part of a group that decided how United Way dollars are spent in the community. She was a member of the MHS Class of '48 and St. Monica's Church. Mrs. Swadener was also the mother of Terry Swadener (MHS '70), Kurt Swadener (MHS '71), Mark Swadener (MHS '72), Mary Swadener (MHS '75), Andrew Swadener (MHS '77), and John Swadener (MHS '87). Kathy's father (MHS '47) survives.

Carol Ann Nix's mother, Elizabeth M. "Dolly" (Gleissner) Nix, died November 25, 2005, at Our Lady of Peace Hospital in South Bend. She was 89. Mrs. Nix was born in Mishawaka in 1916, grew up in Mishawaka, and graduated from MHS. She worked at Ball Band before marrying Elmo Francis Nix in November 1943. Mrs. Nix was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church and the Rosary Society. As a young woman she had been a Mishawaka City Tennis Champion. Mrs. Nix also was the mother of Richard Nix (MHS '65) and Diane Nix (MHS '74), the grandmother of three, and the great-grandmother of one. Carol lost her father in 1970.

Jim Dygulski's mother, Alice J. (Bickel) Dygulski, died November 14, 2005, at Fountainview Place in Mishawaka. She was 94. Mrs. Dygulski was born in Mishawaka in 1911, graduated from MHS, and married at Mishawaka's St. Joseph Catholic Church in 1933. She was a homemaker, sang with the choir at St. Joseph Church, served with the church's Rosary Society, worked elections for 42 years with the Democrat Precinct Committee Women, volunteered with Real Services, served lunches at the Battell Center, and volunteered at Mishawaka's St. Joseph Hospital. For many years Mrs. Dygulski worked at the Mishawaka Post Office during the Christmas-rush season. She enjoyed bowling and playing bridge. Mrs. Dygulski was also the mother of Bob Dygulski and Ron Dygulski, the grandmother of five, and the great-grandmother of three. Jim lost his father in 1969.

Alecia Brazeau's sister, Mary E. Brazeau, died October 15, 2005. She was 54. Mary was a member of the MHS Class of '69.

Cosimo Natali and Mike Natali's mother, Rose (Jermano) Natali, died September 4, 2005. She was 83. Born in Planti (Calabria), Italy, she married Louis Natali in Leece, Italy, in January 1948. She raised their four sons, was a member of St. Monica Catholic Church, and leaves six grandchildren. Mrs. Natali was also the mother of John Natali (MHS '73) and Tony Natali (MHS '79). Mike and Cosimo's father survives.

Mary Jane Dexter's father, Father Wilber B. Dexter, an Anglican Catholic priest, died August 14, 2005, in Fredericksburg, Virginia, near Mary Jane, where he had lived in recent years. He was 85. Born in Cleveland, Ohio, Fr. Dexter married Kathleen Martha Kinghorn in June 1944. A month later, he was ordained to the priesthood. He served as a parish priest in Wisconsin and in Illinois before coming to Mishawaka in 1950. He served in Mishawaka at St. Paul's Church for 34 years before he and Mrs. Dexter moved to Gainesville, Florida. Burial was at Nashotah House Seminary in Nashotah, Wisconsin. Fr. Dexter was also the father of Peter Dexter (MHS '67). Mary Jane and Peter lost their mother January 1, 1994.

Margie Hesch's husband, John A. Frank, 56, died July 17, 2005, at his home in Muncie, Indiana. He died of cancer. John was part of the MHS Class of '67. For more than 30 years, he was a teacher in Muncie. Margie and John married in Mishawaka on November 30, 1968.

Rick Paridaen's brother, Martin Paridaen, died June 20, 2005, in Ft. Wayne, IN. Martin was 53, and a member of the MHS Class of '71.

Sharon Sohlke's father, Harry A. Sohlke, died June 12, 2005, in his home on W. Broadway in Mishawaka. He was 81. Born in Sullivan, Indiana, Mr. Sohlke served in the U.S. Navy during World War II, married Dorothy "Pearl" Jacobs in Mishawaka in 1947, and retired from Wheelabrator in 1980 after 30 years of service. Sharon's mother survives.

Barb Hitchins' mother, Phyllis M. (Dickey) Hitchins, died June 4, 2005, in Ft. Wayne. She was 83. Born in Clarksburg, W. VA, Mrs. Hitchins retired in 1987 after 22 years with Mishawaka Utilities. She was a member of Mishawaka's First Presbyterian Church and Mishawaka's St. Joseph Hospital Auxiliary. Mrs. Hitchins was also the mother of Ann Hitchins (MHS '74). Barb lost her father in 1998.

Pam Craig's mother, Audrey J. (Waidner) (Craig) Creager, died May 29, 2005, in South Bend. She was 74. Born and raised in Mishawaka, Mrs. Creager graduated from MHS in 1948 and married Robert Craig in 1949. She was owner/operator of Dental Personnel, a member of Mishawaka's Albright United Methodist Church, active with the MHS Alumni Club, and a loyal supporter of the Pet Refuge. Mrs. Creager was also the mother of Stephen Craig (MHS '70) and David Craig (MHS '71), and the aunt of Cindy Waidner (MHS '68). Pam lost her father previously.

Miss Mary E. Hess died May 21, 2005, in Mishawaka. She was 89.  Miss Hess was our Latin teacher at Mishawaka High. Born in Mishawaka on June 27, 1915, she graduated from MHS in 1933 and from St. Mary's College in 1937. She was Valedictorian of her college class. She was a volunteer with Meals on Wheels for 27 years. Amo te, Miss Hess, and WoHeLo. May God bless and welcome you. There has never been a better Camp Fire Girl.

In the words of Miss Hess' niece Susan Hess (MHS '68):
"She was a Camp Fire Director in the Troy, New York, area in the late '30s and early '40s. She oversaw the local programs and ran the summer camps; swimming and canoeing were her special interests. After WW2 started, she worked for the Red Cross doing disaster relief all over the country. She came back to Mishawaka in the mid-1950s and worked several jobs until she got her teaching job. One of those jobs was at the Camp Fire office in Mishawaka. She was there two or three years. She led a very interesting and full life; we will miss her!"

Mrs. Harriett (Kamm) Nye died May 5, 2005, in Mishawaka at Fountainview Place. She was 92.  Mrs. Nye was a librarian at MHS for 30 years. Born in Mishawaka, she graduated from MHS in 1930 and was educated at Northwestern University and St. Mary's College. In 1936, she married Louis Nye; Mr. Nye died in 1986. Mrs. Nye was a member of St. Joseph Catholic parish.

Miss Mildred Harden died March 29, 2005, in Appleton, Wisconsin. She was 95. Miss Harden was a math teacher at MHS for 38 years. Born in Weyauwega, Wisconsin, and educated at Whitewater State University and Northwestern University, Miss Harden taught at MHS from 1934 until 1972. She also served as treasurer of the Mishawaka Presbyterian Church. She moved back to Wisconsin in 1993. She is survived by three nieces and a nephew.

Mr. Merle Blue died March 27, 2005, Easter Sunday, in his Tempe, Arizona, apartment. He was 87. Mr. Blue was an MHS social studies teacher for 37 years. Born in Indiana and educated at Indiana University where he became a member of Phi Beta Kappa, Mr. Blue served in World War II. He was a member of the First United Methodist Church and was active with the Northern Indiana Center for History and the Mishawaka Public Library. He moved to Arizona in 2002 to be near his daughter, Beth, who survives. It was Beth who found her father dead on Easter morning.

Maurice Nisley, Jr., MHS 1968, died March 14, 2005, in Mishawaka. He was born on March 23, 1950. He is survived by his mother; by his brothers Don Nisley (MHS '68), Ron Nisley (MHS '68), and Mike Nisley (MHS '70); and by his sisters Carol Nisley (MHS '66) and Roxanne Nisley (MHS '73). Maurice's mother also graduated from MHS, Class of '45; her maiden name was Martha DeLaurelle.

Karen Bentkowski's father, John J. Bentkowski, died March 6, 2005, in LaGrange. He was 93. Born in South Bend, he grew up on the west side with twelve siblings and served in the U.S. Army during W.W. II. In 1943, in St. Joseph County, he married Miss Bertha Tobolski. In 1954, the young family moved to Mishawaka and made their home on East Fourth Street. Mr. Bentkowski was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church. He was also the father of Sandra Bentkowski (MHS '62). Karen's mother survives.

Carole Signorino's father, Christopher "Chris" A. Signorino, died February 25, 2005, in Mishawaka. He was 80. A member of the MHS Class of 1941, he had lived in Mishawaka his entire life. He married Luise Schmidt (MHS '43) on October 19, 1945, in Oakland, California. They made the family home on North Oakland Ave. Mr. Signorino was retired from St. Joseph Supply Company. He was also the father of Frank Signorino (MHS '65) and Toni Signorino (MHS '70).

Connie Shaffer's husband, Denis L. Dipert, 61, died February 12, 2005, in Fort Myers, Florida. He died of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, better known as "Lou Gehrig's disease." Denis was part of the MHS Class of '61. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army and had been a supervisor at A-M-G on McKinley Highway in Mishawaka.

William Slates' father, Duncan L. Slates, died February 10, 2005. He was 79.

Ron DeBlock's mother, Hendrika "Riek" DeBlock, died January 17, 2005, in South Bend. She was 83. She raised her four children at her home on 8th Street, and she was a member of St. Bavo's Catholic Church. Mrs. DeBlock was also the mother of Henry DeBlock (MHS '66), Don DeBlock (MHS '69), Duane DeBlock (MHS '70, died in 2002), and Roane DeBlock. Ron lost his father five months ago, in August 2004.

Jackie Swonger (Mrs. Werner), MHS 1968, died of cancer on January 15, 2005, in South Bend. She was born in Mishawaka on February 10, 1950, and on June 26, 1971, she married Mike Werner, MHS '67. In words from Jackie's obituary, "She married her soul mate, love of her life and best friend." They made their home in Mishawaka and had two sons, Gregory and Brian. In addition to raising their sons, over the years Jackie worked at Teacher's Credit Union, K-Mart on McKinley, and S.S. Kresge at Town & Country, and she was active in American Legion Unit #161 Auxiliary. She is survived by her husband, their sons, and their four grandchildren -- Michael, Abigail Ruth, Emily Margaret, and Olivia Rose.

Margaret Hutchison's father, Thomas J. Hutchison, Jr., died January 11, 2005, in Florida. He was 89. Mr. Hutchison graduated from MHS in 1933 and married Miss Eleanor Jane Vesey in August 1939 in St. Joseph County. He was also the father of Thomas J. Hutchison III (MHS 1959). Margaret's mother survives.

Randy Marks' mother, LaFern June (Moltz) Marks, died January 6, 2005, in Mishawaka. She was 81. Mrs. Marks was born and married in Osceola. After her children were in school, she worked at Uniroyal, retiring in 1986 after 27 years. She was a member of First United Methodist Church and the American Business Women's Association. Mrs. Marks was also the mother of Barbara Marks (MHS '64) and Connie Marks (deceased), and the grandmother of eight. Randy's father survives.

Cindy Parker's mother, Willa Mae (Woods) Parker, died December 7, 2004, in Wakarusa. She was 78. She and Cindy's father moved to the Mishawaka area in 1946. From 1984 to 1994, Mrs. Parker was a secretary at University of Notre Dame Law School; previously, she had been a secretary at Wheelabrator. She had served the community as president of the Business & Professional Women's Association. Mrs. Parker was also the mother of Gerry Parker (MHS '65) and Terry Parker (MHS '75). Cindy lost her father previously.

Mr. Kenneth Armel died December 2, 2004, in South Bend. He was 85. Mr. Armel was Mishawaka High School's version of Benjamin Franklin -- an educated man who saw printing as an art for communication. His wife, Mary, taught art at MHS. Out of respect for the man responsible for printing our old high school weekly newspaper, Mr. Armel's obituary appears in the words chosen by his family and printed in the South Bend Tribune:

Diana Costa's mother, Wilma Marie (Shirk) Costa, died October 30, 2004, in South Bend's Memorial Hospital. She was 82. She married Edward Costa in May 1946 and was also the mother of Cynthia Costa (MHS '66), Anita Costa (MHS '70), Donald Costa (MHS '73), Marlena Costa (MHS '77), Philip Costa (MHS '78), Brian Costa (MHS '85), and Gregory Costa. Mrs. Costa attended mass at St. Monica Catholic Church, where she and Diana's father had married. Diana's father survives.

Larry Liffick's wife, Patricia C. (Brown) Liffick, died October 11, 2004. She was 55. Larry and Patricia married September 29, 1990, in Mishawaka.

Marsha Brown's father, Harold H. Brown, died September 9, 2004, in South Bend's Memorial Hospital. He was 92. Born in Charles City, Iowa, Mr. Brown served as a flight officer in the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II. In July 1947, he married Katherine LaVon Morehouse Shafer, and they made their home in Mishawaka's Normain Heights. Mr. Brown worked for Gate Way Transporation and for Rogers Cartage until he retired in 1974. He was an active Mason and a hunter and skeet shooter. Marsha's mother died in 2000.

Ray Wennerstrom's father, August E. Wennerstrom, died August 26, 2004, in Ft. Wayne. He was 84. Born in Culver, IN, Mr. Wennerstrom was named after his father who survived the sinking of the Titanic in 1912. Mr. Wennerstrom served in the U.S. military in WW II. In June 1945, he married Ruth Bradt in Niagara Falls, NY. They moved to Mishawaka in 1954 and raised their three children on Forrest Ave. Mr. Wennerstrom retired in 1986 from Uniroyal, where he had worked as a press operator. He was also the father of Pauline Wennerstrom (MHS '72) and Gerald Wennerstrom. Ray's mother died in 2002.

Ron DeBlock's father, Omer DeBlock, died August 5, 2004, in Mishawaka. He was 90. Born in Stekene, Belgium, Mr. DeBlock came to Mishawaka with his family when he was eight years old. In 1932, he returned to Belgium and was part of a construction team that built a tunnel under the River Scheldt, connecting the cities Antwerp and St. Anne. While working in Belgium, he married. Mr. DeBlock served in the U.S. Navy during World War II; he retired from Sibley Foundry after 31 years of work. He was also the father of  Henry DeBlock (MHS '66), Don DeBlock (MHS '69), Duane DeBlock (MHS '70, died in 2002), and Roane DeBlock. Mr. DeBlock was a member of St. Bavo Catholic Church and had lived for more than 50 years in the house on W. 8th Street where he and Mrs. DeBlock raised their family. Ron's mother survives.

Don Plummer's father, Adrian H. "Blackie" Plummer, died July 13, 2004, at his home in Mishawaka. He was 77. Born in Hammond, Indiana, Mr. Plummer served in the U.S. Army during World War II. In January 1946, in St. Joseph County, he married Mabel Mabry, Don's mother. Mr. Plummer was a member of American Legion 308 and Disabled American Veterans Chapter 19. Until retiring in 1989, he was a salesman with Elkhart Wholesale Company. Mr. Plummer was also the father of  Robert Plummer (MHS '64), Philip Plummer (MHS '70), Tony  Plummer, and Christine Plummer (deceased). Don's mother survives, as does Don's step-mother of 40 years.

Steve Hartley's father, Clarence M. "Clay" Hartley, died July 6, 2004, in Mishawaka. He was 75. Born in Nebraska, Mr. Hartley served eight years in the National Guard before moving to Mishawaka in 1958. Until his death, he served on the St. Joseph County Alcohol and Tobacco Commission. Mr. Hartley was also the father of Jeffery Hartley (MHS '70).

Connie Shaffer's mother, Frances M. (Breackevelt) Shaffer, died May 29, 2004, in Fort Myers, Florida. She was 79 and a member of the MHS Class of 1942. Connie was with her mother when her mother passed on. Mrs. Shaffer was also the mother of LuAnn Shaffer, Richard Shaffer (MHS '62), Bob Shaffer (MHS '66), Larry Shaffer, and Jerry Shaffer (MHS '64). From 1957 until 1982, Mr. and Mrs. Shaffer owned and operated the Royal Café in Mishawaka. Connie's father died in 1999.

Ron Brooks' brother, Michael Brooks, died May 29, 2004, in Clermont, Florida. Ron wrote, "My brother Michael Brooks passed away from liver cancer; he was 55. He is survived by his wife Terri and daughters Michelle and Wendy. He left Mishawaka High in 1965 and graduated from high school in California. He was a wonderful man."

Richard Putz' mother, Dorothy P. (Adams) Putz, died May 29, 2004, in Mishawaka. She was 83. Mrs. Putz was born in Mishawaka and married Richard's father, Richard J. Putz, in August 1946 at the Immanuel Baptist Church on Grove Street. She was a lifelong member of the church. She had worked at Crown International in Elkhart. Mrs. Putz also was the mother of James Putz. Richard's father survives.

Darla Mullett's mother, Vivian J. (Bosley) Mullett, died July 8, 2004, in South Bend. Born in Uniontown, Pennsylvania, she was 76. Mrs. Mullett was vice-president of production at Xcel Controls in Mishawaka when she retired in 1986. She was also the mother of Ronald Mullett and Patricia Mullett.

Bob Ruthrauff's father, Charles Frederick Ruthrauff, died May 14, 2004, in Green Valley, Arizona. Born in Chicago, Illinois, he was 87. After two years of college, on April 9, 1941, Mr. Ruthrauff enlisted in the U.S. Army, served during World War II, and became a Captain. He married Bob's mother in 1946. They moved to Mishawaka in the early 1950s and raised their children in the St. Joseph parish. In 1979, Mr. Ruthrauff retired from his job as a purchasing agent for UniRoyal. Since 1984, Mr. Ruthrauff and his wife lived in Arizona. He also was the father of Edith Ruthrauff (MHS '65), Joe Ruthrauff (MHS '70), Bill Ruthrauff ('75), and Jim Ruthrauff. Bob's mother survives.

Mr. Fred Horn, Sr., died March 3, 2004, in South Bend. He was 86. Mr. Horn was the principal at Battell Elementary School from the time the Class of '68 began Kindergarten, until after the Class of '68 completed 6th grade. In 1980 the elementary school principals of Indiana's 3rd Congressional District named Mr. Horn "Principal of the Year." Mr. Horn was a member of the First Brethren Church of Ardmore where he served various years as a Sunday School teacher, a Deacon, Chairman of the Stewardship Ministry, Assistant Youth Director, Moderator of the Congregation, and General Conference Recording Secretary.

Linda Hatfield's mother, Sybil (Pottorff) Hatfield, died February 28, 2004, in Mishawaka. She was 85. Mrs. Hatfield was also the mother of Carol Hatfield (MHS '70) and David Hatfield. Mrs. Hatfield worked in the office of Dr. Max Helman for a quarter of a century; she was a member of Michiana Community Church of God. Linda died in 1983. Linda's father died in 1963.

Debbie Koepke's father, Robert E. Koepke, died December 8, 2003, in South Bend Memorial Hospital. He was 82. Mr. Koepke served in the U.S. Army during World War II: Company C, 534th Chemical Mortar Battalion. He was also the father of Linda Sue Koepke (MHS '66) and Pamela Koepke (deceased). Debbie's mother survives.

Larry Liffick's father, Francis "Boots" Liffick, died October 17, 2003, in South Bend. He was 81. Mr. Liffick served in the U.S. Army in WW II, participating in D-Day in Normandy and in the Battle of the Bulge. He was retired from Uniroyal and had served the community as president of Fraternal Order of Eagles in Mishawaka. Mr. Liffick was also the father of Deborah Liffick (MHS '70). Larry's mother survives.

Peggy Sinkovics' husband, Robert "Bob" Hixenbaugh (MHS '64), died September 21, 2003, in Niles, at home. He was 56. Peggy and Bob married September 5, 1970, in Mishawaka. Bob was also the brother of MHS '68 members Ron and Don Hixenbaugh.

Miss Helen G. Stoddart, retired MHS English teacher, died July 17, 2003, in the Town of Wheatfield, New York, at Northgate Manor Health Care. She was 92. Burial was at White Chapel Memorial Park Cemetery, Amherst, New York. Miss Stoddart earned her B.A. in 1933 from State University of Iowa and her M.A. in 1942 from Indiana University. She was a member of Mishawaka's First Presbyterian Church. After she retired in 1976, she moved to northern New York to be near her nieces and nephew in Canada.

Tim Bess' mother, Angie (Allen) Bess died July 16, 2003, at home in South Bend. She was 87. Mrs. Bess was also the mother of David Bess (MHS '65). Tim lost his father in 1978.

Nanette Schnaible's father, Albert P. Schnaible, died July 7, 2003, in Hospice House in South Bend. He was 84. Mr. Schnaible moved to Mishawaka in 1941 and married Miss Charlotte Matz in June 1943 in St. Joseph County. He spent his working years with Bendix, C.G. Conn, and Bayer. For 57 years, he was the organist at St. Peter Lutheran Church. Mr. Schnaible was also the father of John Schnaible (MHS '63), Diana Schnaible (MHS '64), Tom Schnaible (MHS '71), and Carl Schnaible (MHS '75). Nanette's mother survives.

Jim LaBelle's father, Robert L. LaBelle, died May 25, 2003, in Mishawaka's St. Joseph hospital. He was 78. He had suffered a stroke the day before, in his home in Mishawaka. Mr. LaBelle was retired from UniRoyal (Ball Band). He served Mishawaka as a member of the City Council, and as a member of the Board of Parks & Recreation; he served the community through the YMCA, and he served Mishawaka's First Presbyterian Church in various roles over the years. Jim's mother survives, and Mr. LaBelle leaves two grandchildren -- Jim and Marcia's daughter and son.

Betty Myers' son died May 18, 2003. Andew Austin Looney was born to Betty and her husband, Andrew B. Looney, in 1977. Andrew was 26. He died from injuries from a motor vehicle accident; Andrew's wife of seven months also died in the accident. His parents, his brother, and his sister survive.

Brenda Snyder's husband, John M. Perry, died April 28, 2003, in Florida. Brenda and her husband were in the midst of building a new house.

Betty Myers' mother, Alta F. (Stutsman) (Myers) Narragon, died April 20, 2003, in Elkhart. She was 82. She also was the mother of Alta Ann Myers (MHS '62) and Mary Catherine Myers. Betty's father died in 1968. After Betty's dad died, her mother married Richard Naragon; he survives. Betty's mom was a registered nurse at Mishawaka's St. Joseph Hospital and was a member of the First Christian Church.

Bev Magnuson's mother, Katherine (Dorn) Magnuson, died March 3, 2003, in South Bend. She was 83. Mrs. Magnuson was also the mother of Chris Magnuson and Gladys Miller, and of the late Ronald Miller (died 1985) and Doug Magnuson (died 1996). Mrs. Magnuson was a young widowed mother when she married Bev's father. Mrs. Magnuson worked for nearly three decades at Excel in Elkhart. Beverly lost her father in 1981.

Becky Kuhn's mother, Betty J. (Buck) Kuhn, died January 29, 2003, at home in South Bend. She was 77. She graduated from MHS in 1943 and married Paul Kuhn in November 1947 in St. Joseph County. Mrs. Kuhn also was the mother of James Kuhn and Paula Kuhn. Becky's father died previously.

Pat Hayden's father, Sylvester A. Hayden, died January 15, 2003, in South Bend. He was 89. He married Miss Mary Lenore Morin in January 1945 in St. Joseph County. They made the family home on West 6th Street, and Mr. Hayden supported the family as a mail carrier. Mr Hayden also was the father of Kathy Hayden, Janet Hayden, Monica Hayden, Christine Hayden, and Michael Hayden.

Keith Smith's mother, Nora A. (Snow) Whitaker, died December 10, 2002, in Jasper County. She was 85. She also was the mother of Sharon Smith, Greg Smith, and Kirk Smith.

Judy Blankenhorn's father, Paul C. Blankenhorn, died December 2, 2002, at home in Normain Heights in Mishawaka. He was 77. Mr. Blankenhorn was also the father of Gail Blankenhorn (MHS '69), James Blankenhorn (MHS '72), and Richard Blankenhorn. Judy's mother survives. Mr. Blankenhorn served in the U.S. Army in WW II. He served the Mishawaka community as a Cub Scout leader, a Boy Scout leader, and a volunteer math tutor, and he assisted his wife as she served as a Camp Fire Girls leader. He had retired after working nearly four decades as an engineer. ... WoHeLo, Mr. B., and may God bless and welcome you.

Jerry Heiser's father, William A. Heiser, died November 5, 2002, in Punta Gorda, Florida. He was 75. Jerry's mother survives. Mr. Heiser was also the father of Barbara Heiser (MHS '70), Susan Heiser (MHS '72), and Lawrence Heiser (MHS '67). Mr. Heiser had retired in 1982 after 37 years with the Mishawaka Post Office where he was superintendent of mail. He served in the U.S. Army in WW II and was a graduate of MHS (1945).

Ray Wennerstrom's mother, Ruth Betty (Brandt) Wennerstrom, died October 23, 2002, in South Bend. She was 78. Ray's father survives. Mrs. Wennerstrom was also the mother of Pauline Wennerstrom (MHS '72) and Gerald Wennerstrom.

Jim Hallaert's mother, Rosemary "Butch" (Kuharic) Hallaert, died September 18, 2002, in Greer, S.C. She was 77. She married George Hallaert in January 1943 in St. Joseph County. Mrs. Hallaert was a member of St. Bavo Catholic Church. Jim died in May 1983. She also was the mother of Mike Hallaert. Jim's father survives.

Toby Roose's father, Robert G. Roose, died August 30, 2002 in Mishawaka. He was 78. He was a graduate of Mishawaka High School and served in the U.S. Army in WW II. He was retired from Dodge and a member of the Osceola Church of the Brethren. He also was the father of Cathy Roose and Robert E. Roose. Toby's mother survives.

Janice Einfalt's mother, Mary A. (Kedik) Einfalt, died August 21, 2002, at home in Mishawaka. She was 81 and a 1938 graduate of MHS. Mrs. Einfalt also was the mother of Ronald Einfalt (MHS '61), Robert Einfalt (MHS '64), Dorlan Einfalt, Jr. (MHS '72), and James Einfalt (MHS '73). Janice lost her father in 1986.

Paul Huyvaert's father, James J. Huyvaert, died August 5, 2002. He was 75. Mr. Huyvaert graduated from MHS in 1945 and served in the U.S. Navy in WW II. In June 1949, in St. Joseph County, he married Miss Patricia Ann Baughman. He owned and operated Huyvaert's TV in Mishawaka for 40 years. Paul's mother survives.

Sharon Lee Johnson (Mrs. Ziegert), MHS 1968, died June 19, 2002, in South Bend. Born on October 1, 1950, in Mishawaka, she married Buddie Ziegert February 8, 1969 in Mishawaka. Her husband survives along with their four sons, Richard, Kevin, Shawn, and Jason, and their two grandchildren.

Richard Gottman's father, Albert L. Gottman, died June 2, 2002, in Mishawaka. He was 79. Mr. Gottman served in the Army Air Corps in WW II and was retired from Uniroyal. Richard's mother survives.

Jimita Baldoni's mother, Lucille M. (Nowak) Baldoni died April 27, 2002, in the Mishawaka hospital, three days before her 79th birthday. Mrs. Baldoni was also the mother of Paul Baldoni, Mitchell Baldoni (MHS '65), Mary Baldoni, and Barbara Baldoni. Jimita lost her father 18 months ago.

Kathy Klotz' mother, Lena M. (Williams) Klotz, died April 25, 2002, in St. Joseph County. She was 91. Kathy's father and Kathy's seven brothers and two sisters survive. Mrs. Klotz was also the grandmother of Martha Zemialkowski.

Debbie Callsen's mother, Marilynn C. (Smith) Callsen, died April 21, 2002, in South Bend. She was 84. Born in Michigan, she married Bernard Callsen in April 1942 in St. Joseph County, Indiana. She worked as a transcriber at an insurance company until she retired. Mrs. Callsen also was the mother of Barbara Callsen (MHS '62). Debbie's father died in 1976.

Terry DeMaegd's father, Leon DeMaegd, died March 21, 2002, in San Diego, CA. He was 88. He was born in Mishawaka. He married Miss Barbara Joanne Snyder in April 1948 in St. Joseph County, and they made their family home in Mishawaka. Mr. DeMaegd had retired from from Uniroyal. He served in the U.S. Army in WW II in the Sicilian, Normandy, Northern France and Rhineland campaigns; he received the American Defense Ribbon, the EAMA Theater Ribbon with four bronze stars, and the Bronze Arrowhead Medal. He also was the father of Kathleen DeMaegd.

Carolyn Schwartz' sister, Kathleen Schwartz Hemeyer, died January 31, 2002, in Muncie, Indiana. She was 52. Kathy was part of the MHS Class of 1967. She is survived by her husband, their two sons, and their daughter. She was an audiologist with a master's degree from Ball State University.

Martha Zemialkowski's father, Walter Raymond Zemialkowski, died January 7, 2002, in Elkhart. He was 78 years. Mr. Zemialskowski also was the father of Julie Zemialkowski and Walter Zemialskowski, Jr. He served in the U.S. Army Air Corps in WW II and was a retired trucker. Martha's mother survives.

Harold "Spider" Draves' mother, Gowanga "Wanda" (Harris) Draves, died January 6, 2002, in Mishawaka. She was 82. She married Henry Draves in April 1936, in St. Joseph County. Mrs. Draves also was the mother of Dennis Draves and Fredrick Draves, and of the late Henry Draves, Jr., and Myrna Draves. Spider's father died in 1978.

Jerry Reed's father, Lester "Arky" Reed, died December 19, 2001, in South Bend. He was 80. Mr. Reed also was the father of Denise Reed, James Reed and John Reed. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army. Jerry lost his mother in 1993.

Jean Mondich's mother, Sylvia (Siczek) Mondich, died December 14, 2001, in South Bend. She was 76. Born in Dowagiac, she married John Mondich in her hometown in May 1946. She was a parishioner at St. Anthony de Padua Catholic Church, in South Bend. Mrs. Mondich also was the mother of James Mondich and Marcia Mondich. Jean's father survives.

Debbie Claeys' mother, Barbara E. (Went) Claeys, died October 23, 2001, in South Bend. She was 74. Born and raised in Mishawaka, she married Arthur R. Claeys in Mishawaka in August 1946. She was active in the local Republican Party and had worked in the office of Mayor Maggie Prickett. Mrs. Claeys was active at the First English Lutheran Church. She also was the mother of Larry Claeys and Edward Claeys, both deceased. Debbie lost her father in 1983; her brother Edward (MHS '75) died only seven weeks ago, and Debbie's infant grandson died just this past June.

Mary Ellen Sweeney's father, John R. Sweeney, died October 11, 2001, in Mishawaka. He was 82. Mr. Sweeney served in the U.S. Navy during World War II and was an usher at St. Monica's. He was also the father of Sandra Sweeney (MHS '69), Patricia Sweeney (MHS '70), John Sweeney (MHS '72), and Julie Sweeney (MHS '74). Mary Ellen lost her mother in December 2000.

Judy Greenlee's father, Otis O. Greenlee died October 2, 2001, at home in Middlebury. He was 80. Mr. Greenlee served in the U.S. Army Air Corp in WW II; he was retired from Uniroyal. Judy's mother survives.

Jim Britton's mother, Lorraine Odeil "Charlie" (Pringels) Britton, died September 16, 2001, in Kalamazoo. She was 72. She graduated from MHS in 1947, and married Glen Britton in November 1949. Mrs. Britton had retired as Registrar at the St. Joseph County Health Department. Jim lost his father in 1996.

Dennis Graham's mother, Virginia A. Graham, died September 11, 2001, in Mishawaka. She was 87. Mrs. Graham was also the mother of Jeannie Graham, Tamara Graham, Doris Graham, Sherry Graham, Dewain Graham, Paul Graham, and Thomas Graham. Dennis lost his father in 1979.

Linda Jasiewicz' mother, Theresa I. (Horvath) Jasiewicz, died July 30, 2001, in South Bend. She was 77. She married Stanley Jasiewicz in September 1946 in St. Joseph County. Mrs. Jasiewicz was also the mother of Victoria Jasiewicz (MHS '70), Christina Jasiewicz, and Sandra Jasiewicz, and of John Jasiewicz and Mary Jasiewicz who preceeded her in death. Mrs. Jasiewicz had retired from the Mishawaka School System in 1985, after 20 years of service. She was the manager of food services for Bingham, North Side, and Mary Phillips schools. Linda lost her father in 1977.

Henry Catalino III's father, Henry "Hank" Catalino Jr., died July 28, 2001, in Elkhart. He was 72. Born in Mishawaka, Mr. Catalino was a member of the South Bend Elks, the Elkhart Moose Lodge, and Mishawaka DeAmici's. He was also the father of Melonie Catalino and Teena Catalino. Henry's mother survives.

Jane Zimmerman's father, Donald L. Zimmerman, died July 25, 2001, in South Bend. He was 83. Mr. Zimmerman was also the father of Chuck Zimmerman (MHS '63). Mr. Zimmerman was a member of the MHS Class of '35. Jane lost her mother 16 months ago.

Tom Eberlein and Clara Eberlein's father, Robert G. Eberlein, died July 11, 2001, in South Bend. He was 81. Mr. Eberlein was also the father of Robert F. Eberlein (MHS '66). Tom and Clara lost their mother 16 months ago.

Robert Wilemon's mother, Louise (Harper) Wilemon, died April 28, 2001, in Mishawaka. She was 76. Born in Mississippi, she and Robert Wilemon, Sr., married in Booneville, Mississippi in August 1949. Bob's father survives. Mrs. Wilemon also was the mother of John Wilemon and Marie Wilemon.

John Martino's adoptive mother, Shirley J. Trovatore, died April 26, 2001. She was 69.

Kathy Hillaert's father, Joseph A. Hillaert, died April 6, 2001, in California. He was 82 and a member of the MHS Class of '36. Mr. Hillaert married Miss Lucy M. VanHoeck in May 1946, in St. Joseph County; his wife died in December 1999. He was retired from Dodge, had served in the U.S. Army under General Patton during WW II, and was an MHS graduate. He also was the father of John Hillaert and of James Hillaert, Class of '65 (deceased, 1998).

Cindy Houghton's father, Charles F. Houghton, died March 22, 2001, in Mishawaka. He was 85. He married Miss Elizabeth Rojics in May 1943, in St. Joseph County. Mr. Houghton was also the father of Betty Houghton (MHS '65), Ellen Houghton (MHS '74), Jon Houghton (MHS '63), and Craig Houghton (MHS '71). Cindy's mother survives.

Ron Cosner's mother, Ruth E. (Frederick) Cosner, died March 9, 2001. She was 84. Mrs. Cosner also was the mother of Ray Cosner and Roberta Cosner. During her life she was a homemaker, church secretary, Sunday School teacher, and an executive secretary at Dodge. Ron lost his father previously.

Janice Matz (Mrs. Renfroe), MHS 1968, died February 25, 2001, in Lafayette. She died of muscular sclerosis. She was born on October 26, 1950. She is survived by her daughter, Jennifer, and by her husband, William.

LuAnn Banker's father, Kenneth E. Banker, died February 18, 2001, in South Bend. He was 76. Mr. Banker served in the U.S. Navy during World War II. He married LuAnn's mother, Ruth Brooker, in December 1948, in South Bend. They made the family home on West Broadway and were members of Albright United Methodist Church. Mr. Banker also was the father of Keith Banker and Donald Banker. LuAnn's mother survives.

Barbara Riley's mother, Anna J. (Blasko) Riley, died January 13, 2001, in the Mishawaka hospital. She was 82. She married Harold R. Riley in June 1941, in St. Joseph County. Mr. Riley died in 1985. Mrs. Riley also was the mother of Judith Riley, Rose Marie Riley, and Sharon Riley. Barb's father died in 1985.

Herschel Cooper's father, Elmer "Jack" Cooper, died January 5, 2001, at home in South Bend. He was 72 and had lived in the Michiana area most of his life. Mr. Cooper served in the Air Force in WW II, and was retired from St. Joseph Community Hospital.

Mary Ellen Sweeney's mother, Mary (Gulyanics) Sweeney, died December 3, 2000, at her home in Mishawaka. She was 81. Born in Mishawaka, she married Mary Ellen's father in October 1948 in North Dakota. She worked at Ball Band and later as deputy clerk for the Penn Township Assessor's Office, and she was active at St. Monica's. Mrs. Sweeney was also the mother of Sandra Sweeney (MHS '69), Patricia Sweeney (MHS '70), John Sweeney (MHS '72), and Julie Sweeney (MHS '74). Mary Ellen's father survives.

Brent Ward's father, Mr. Lester Ward, died November 27, 2000, in Mishawaka. He was 85. Mr. Ward was also the father of Camilla Ward (MHS '62), Gwen Ward (MHS '64), Maria Ward, Dennis Ward (MHS '72), Geoffrey Ward, and the late Jennifer Lynn Ward (died 1971). Brent lost his mother in 1964. ... For those in the Class of '68 who were at Battell Elementary School for fifth or sixth grade, Mr. Ward was our math teacher. He made "electric light boards" to help us learn our basic facts, challenged us to stretch to the maximum, always rewarded good learning, and had a smile that filled his face. ... Mr. Ward served in the U.S. Navy in World War II and the Korean Conflict; he retired as a lieutenant commander from the Naval Reserve in 1975. He taught at LaSalle, Battell, Main Junior High, and John Young Junior High. He retired in 1978 after 40 years of teaching. Mr. Ward was active in the National Education Association and Indiana State Teachers Association, was a member of the Knights of Columbus, served as Cub Scout leader at St. Joseph Grade School, and was a longtime usher and lector at St. Joseph Catholic Church. ... In 1943, he married Edith Maurine Miller; they had five children before she died in 1964. In 1965, he married Betty Lee Helstern; they had a daughter who died in 1971; Betty died in 1979. In 1980, he married Velma Lutz; she survives.

Tom Grau's father, Leonard W. Grau, died November 9, 2000, in South Bend. Born in Valparaiso, Mr. Grau graduated from South Bend Business College and served in the U.S. Army during World War II. He married Helen "Elaine" Brundige on January 4, 1942. He retired from the U.S. Railway Postal Service in 1967 and worked another ten years at Torrington. He was active at St. Peter's Lutheran Church, and enjoyed gardening and fishing. Mr. Grau was also the father of Janice Grau (MHS '66), and Larry Grau (MHS '79). Tom lost his mother one year ago.

Mike Unruh's mother, Anna C. (VanDenBorre) Unruh, died November 1, 2000, in Titusville, Florida. She was 74 and a 1944 graduate of MHS. Mrs. Unruh was also the mother of Curt Unruh (MHS '71); Curt lives in Titusville. Mike's father died in 1993.

Jimita Baldoni's father, Libero A. "Lab" Baldoni, died October 12, 2000, in Mishawaka. He was 81. Mr. Baldoni served in the U.S. Army in WW II and served as Mishawaka's Postmaster until he retired in 1980. Jimita's mother survives. Mr. Baldoni was also the father of Paul Baldoni, Mitchell Baldoni (MHS '65), Mary Baldoni, and Barbara Baldoni. Born in Mishawaka, Mr. Baldoni was a member of the MHS Class of 1938.

Kathy Koleszar's father, Anton "Tony" Koleszar, died September 12, 2000, in Mishawaka. He was 85. Mr. Koleszar was also the father of Stephen Koleszar (MHS '61) and Maryann Koleszar (MHS '62). Kathy lost her mother six months ago.

Tom Smith, MHS 1968, died August 16, 2000. Tom was born August 20, 1950, to Paul and Eva Smith. He is survived by his three children, by five siblings, and by his wife whom he married June 24, 2000.

Cindy Hoffman's father, Robert E. Hoffman, died August 1, 2000, in Florida. He was 81. Mr. Hoffman graduated from MHS in 1937 and married Miss Margaret Hollingsworth in November 1946 in St. Joseph County. Cindy's mother survives..

Marsha Brown's mother, Kathryn LaVon (Morehouse) Brown, died July 29, 2000, in Mishawaka. She was 86. She married Mr. Brown in July 1947, in St. Joseph County. Marsha's father survives.

Marsha Honold's father, Carl C. Honold, died July 26, 2000, in the Mishawaka hospital. He was 84. Born in Mishawaka, he graduated from MHS in 1935 and married Miss Betty Jane Parcell in September 1941, in St. Joseph County. Mr. Honold served in the U.S. Army during WW II. He also was the father of Gary Honold. Marsha's mother survives.

Phil Stillson's mother, Beatrice E. "Bea" (Wilson) Stillson, died July 19, 2000, in Mishawaka. She was 77. Mrs. Stillson was also the mother of Larry Stillson (MHS '61) and Dick Stillson (MHS '65). Phil's father passed on in 1982. Mrs. Stillson was part of the MHS Class of 1940.

Karen Broomall's father, Owen R. Broomall, died July 13, 2000, in Mishawaka. He was 78. Mr. Broomall was also the father of Janet Broomall (MHS '72), Doug Broomall (MHS '74), Laura Broomall (MHS '75), Dale Broomall (MHS '77, deceased), and Donna Broomall (MHS '79). He was a veteran of WW II. Karen's mother survives.

Vicky Long's mother, Martha L. (Jewell) Long, died June 10, 2000, in South Bend. She was 78. Mrs. Long was also the mother of Sharon Long (MHS '58), Michael Long (MHS '64), Janet Long (MHS'74), Stephen Long (MHS '76), and David Long. Vicky's father survives.

Pat Long's father, Earl L. Long, died June 2, 2000, at his home on West 7th Street, in Mishawaka. He was 81. He served in the U.S. Navy during WW II. He retired from Bendix in 1983, after over 30 years of service. Pat's mother survives.

Joe Klinedinst, MHS 1968, died May 18, 2000. Joe was born September 14, 1950, to Richard and Catherine (Perri) Klinedinst. He is survived by four children, a grandchild, his mother, and a brother. From 1981 to 1994, Joe and his family sold organically grown vegetables at the Farmer's Market in South Bend.

Miss Flora Chastain, Bingham teacher, died April 20, 2000, in Illinois. She was 98. She taught 5th grade and was the reading teacher at Bingham.

Tom Robinett's mother, Margaret "Marge" (VanderSloot) Robinett, died April 19, 2000, in South Bend. She was 80. Mrs. Robinett was also the mother of Carol Stank (MHS '58), Gail Robinett (MHS '67), Linda Robinett (MHS '70), and Scott Robinett. Tom's father passed on in 1986.

Frances Grisham's father, the Rev. Orvis L. "O.L." Grisham, died April 7, 2000, in Arkansas. He was 69. In 1968 at our baccalaureate service, Rev. Grisham read the scripture. At the time, he was the pastor at Mishawaka's Church of Christ. He was a minister from the time he was 19 years old. Francie's mother survives.

Clara Eberlein and Tom Eberlein's mother, Mary K. (Paluzzi) Eberlein, died March 22, 2000, in South Bend. She was 76. Born in Indiana, she grew up in Mishawaka and married Robert Eberlein in April 1946 in St. Joseph County. Clara and Tom's father survives.

Kathy Koleszar's mother, Garnette C. (Heward) Koleszar, died March 8, 2000, in Mishawaka. She was 79. She married Mr. Koleszar in July 1946 in St. Joseph County. Kathy's father survives. Mrs. Koleszar was also the mother of Stephen Koleszar (MHS '61) and Maryann Koleszar (MHS '62). Mrs. Koleszar was a secretary at MHS for 15 years.

Jane Zimmerman's mother, Mary Elizabeth (Stone) Zimmerman, died March 7, 2000, in Mishawaka. She was 83. Born in Indiana, she grew up in Mishawaka and married Donald Zimmerman (MHS '35) in November 1940. He survives. Mrs. Zimmerman was also the mother of Chuck Zimmerman (MHS '63). Mrs. Zimmerman was Class of 1935.

Spiro Krekelas' mother, Irene Morris, died March 4, 2000, in Elkhart. She was 86. Mrs. Morris also was the mother of Effie Krekelas (MHS '66). Spiro's father died a few months before Spiro was born. As a widow, she married Louis Morris in August 1952 in St. Joseph County.

Karen Martin's daughter died December 29, 1999. Melissa L. Corban was born to Karen and her husband, John Corban, on July 10, 1978. She was 21 and a 1996 LaSalle High School graduate. She died from injuries from a motor vehicle accident. Her parents and two brothers survive.

Kathy Hillaert's mother, Lucy (VanHoecke) Hillaert, died December 15, 1999, in California. She was 74. Kathy's father, Joseph (MHS '36), survives. Mrs. Hillaert was also the mother of James Hillaert (MHS '65) (deceased). Mrs. Hillaert was part of the MHS Class of 1944.

Ron Mize's wife, Linda J. (Shaffer) Mize, died December 6, 1999, in St. Joseph Co., IN. She was 49. Ron and Linda married Sept. 1, 1979.

Joyce DeNeve's mother, Christena M. (Schriver) DeNeve, died December 4, 1999, in Mishawaka. She was 88. In September 1935, in St. Joseph County, she married Leo DeNeve. Her husband died in 1994. Mrs. DeNeve was also the mother of Alene DeNeve (MHS '56).

Alan Stafford's father, A.D. "Monty" Stafford, died November 14, 1999, in Mishawaka. He was 80.

Tom Grau's mother, Helen "Elaine" (Brundige) Grau, died November 11, 1999, in Mishawaka. Mrs. Grau was also the mother of Janice Grau (MHS '66), and Larry Grau (MHS '79). Tom's father survives.

Mr. Marvin Wood, former MHS teacher, coach, and counselor, died October 12, 1999, in Mishawaka. He was 71. "It's nice to be important, but it's more important to be nice."

Linda Asper's mother, Margaret (Kedik) Asper, died October 5, 1999, in Mishawaka's hospital. She was 74. Born in Mishawaka, she married Ivan Asper in February 1946 in St. Joseph County. Mrs. Asper was also the mother of Roy Asper and Randy Asper, and of the late Richard Asper and Ronald Asper. Linda's father survives.

Bill Boler's father, Jewell V. Boler, died August 28, 1999, in South Bend. He was 75. Mr. Boler also was the father of Charles Boler (MHS '66) and Rebecca Boler (MHS '73). He was retired from Bendix. Bill's mother survives.

William Rupp's father, John W. Rupp, died July 23, 1999, in LaPorte County. He was 74. William's mother survives. Mr. Rupp also was the father of Jerry Rupp, Raymond Rupp, and Sally Rupp. He was retired from Bendix.

Jim Carnes' father, Clyde C. "Butch" Carnes, Jr., died July 21, 1999, in Mishawaka. He was 78. Mr. Carnes served in the U.S. Navy in WW II, married Miss Waneta Newcomer (MHS '40) in February 1946 at Mishawaka's First Methodist Church, and was retired from Dodge. Jim's mother survives.

Walt Eakins' father, Charles D. Eakins, Sr., died July 14, 1999, in South Bend. He was 74. Mr. Eakins owned and operated Eakins Shoe Repair for over 52 years, and Eakins Glass Company & Hardware for 10 years. A graduate of MHS, he married Walt's mother, Natachia Hutts, in November 1946 in St. Joseph County. He was a lifelong Mishawaka resident and served in the U.S. Army in WW II. Mr. Eakinso was the father of Charles Eakins Jr. (MHS '70), Robert Eakins (MHS '73), Trudy Eakins (MHS '75), Rudy Eakins (MHS '76), Patrick Eakins, and Linda Eakins, and the uncle of Byron Aldrich (MHS '68). Walt lost his mother in August 1995.

George Roelandts' mother, Anna (Mouros) Roelandts died July 6, 1999, in Mishawaka. She was 81 and a member of the MHS Class of 1936. Mrs. Roelandts was also the mother of Ruth Roelandts (MHS '66) and Maxine Roelandts (MHS '63). George lost his father in 1992.

Pam Bollaert's husband, Terry L. Bradley, died June 3, 1999. He was 50. Pat and Terry married June 22, 1968. Their two sons survive: Jeffrey and Craig.

Chris Nicholas' father, James Nicholas, died March 20, 1999, in South Bend. He was 82. He was retired from Kreamo Bakery. He served in the U.S. Army in WW II and was awarded the Bronze Star.

Judy Arnold's son died March 14, 1999. James W. Buck was born to Judy and her husband, William Buck, on June 24, 1970, in Mishawaka. He was 28 and passed away after a sudden illness. He was a member of the MHS Class of '88. Surviving are his parents, his wife, his daughter, his son, and his sister.

Connie Shaffer's father, Galen Rex Shaffer, died March 9, 1999, in Fort Myers, FL. He was 76. Connie's mother survives. Mr. Shaffer also was the father of LuAnn Shaffer, Richard Shaffer, Bob Shaffer, Larry Shaffer, and Jerry Shaffer. For 25 years, until retiring in 1982, Mr. Shaffer was the owner of the Royal Cafe in Mishawaka. He served in the U.S. Army in WW II.

Nancy Mann's mother, Vivian Mae (Miller) Mann, died February 28, 1999. She was 90. At age 15, Mrs. Mann began work at Bell Telephone. She helped organize the Association of Women Telephone Workers and was appointed state director of the Communications Workers of America. In 1964 Gov. Welch awarded Mrs. Mann the Sagamore of the Wabash in recognition for her years of service to the people of Indiana. She also was the mother of Donald Mann and John Mann. Nancy's father died in 1980.

Bob Stretch's mother, Ruth V. (Buck) Molnar, died February 7, 1999, at her home on East Broadway, in Mishawaka. She was 85. She also was the mother of Loredano Stretch.

Susie Sierens' father, Frank Sierens, died December 21, 1998, in Mishawaka. He was 73. Susie's mother survives. Born in Indiana, Mr. Sierens married Irene Holcomb in St. Joseph County in April 1948. The couple made the family home on East Fourth Street. Mr. Sierens was also the father of Sally Sierens, Sandy Sierens, and Larry Sierens.

Willie Shannon's brother, Jesse Shannon, Jr., died August 23, 1998, in Mishawaka, as a result of a motorcycle accident. Jesse was a member of the Class of '67, and played football with many members of the Class of '68. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus Council 553.

Linda Irene Howe, MHS 1968, died June 16, 1998. in Oceanside, CA. Born November 23, 1949, in Mishawaka, Linda entered the Marine Corps in June 1968. She served 20 years with the Marines and retired as a master sergeant. Linda lived on East 12th Street when we were in high school. She had lost her father when she was 11 years old. She is survived by her sister Marie Howe and her brother John Howe.

Kathy Goeller's husband, James R. Agostino, died May 18, 1998, in South Bend. Mr. Agostino served in the U.S. Army before Kathy and he married.

Randy Shayler's father, Harold J. Shayler, died April 17, 1998, in South Bend. He was 71. Born in Michigan on July 31, 1926, to John and Elnora Shayler, as a child Mr. Shayler lived on a farm in Bay Co., Michigan. He married Leona I. Tate on November 24, 1945, in St. Joseph County. The couple made the family home on Main Street in Normain Heights, and Mr. Shayler worked for Kuss Bakery. Mr. Shayler was also the father of Sharyn Shayler (Class of '64). Randy's mother survives.

Marilou Karst's father, Mr. Charles E. Karst, died October 16, 1987, in Mishawaka. He was 70. Born in Huntington Co., he graduated from Huntington College before enlisting in the Army Air Corps in 1942 and teaching chemical warfare to airmen. On Christmas Eve 1944, he married Martha Ann Crum in Fort Wayne. After WW II, Mr. Karst completed a science degree at Purdue. He and Mrs. Karst moved to Mishawaka in 1947, and he began teaching at Mishawaka High School. In 1964, he completed his master's degree in chemistry at St. Louis University. For many from the MHS Class of '68, he was our Chemistry teacher. After 33 years at MHS, he retired in 1980. Mr. Karst was also the father of Gail Karst (MHS '65) and Lori Karst (MHS '72). Marilou's mother survives.

NOTE: Additional information is available at this site:
http://wc.rootsweb.ancestry.com/cgi-bin/igm.cgi?db=mishawaka68