Ornament sale to benefit Lagro Canal Foundation
Celebrate the recent progress in Lagro with a special ornament featuring a postcard advertisement for the Christmas Savings Club at the Citizens State Bank (built in 1913).
The focus of this ornament is especially interesting as the bank was one of the first buildings that the Lagro Canal Foundation purchased for renovation. Recently, as the new owners of the Hopewell House were renovating the house, they discovered an old issue of the Lagro Press, which included information about D.W. Gillespie, then owner of the house and an employee of the Lagro Citizen’s State Bank. These ornaments are available for purchase at the 950 ? Speakeasy Bistro in Lagro through Jan. 31. After January, please contact Peggy Eads, 260-571-1093.
In 1876, the township of Lagro offered 10 dry goods stores, two hardware stores, seven grocery stores, 12 blacksmith shops, a wagon shop, three carriage factories, a saddle factory, a harness shop, four boot makers, three millinery shops, two dressmakers, five eating houses, three hotels, two bakeries, a watch-
maker, two tin shops, a furniture factory, two cabinet shops, two butcher shops, three saloons, six grain houses, three grist mills, seven sawmills, two tanneries, a printing office, four cooper shops, 10 physicians, a barber shop, a planing mill, four stave factories, three justices, a livery stable, three life insurance agents, five brokers in livestock, and 11 shoe shops.
And the Express adds, “They all are doing a thriving business.”
(Reprinted from “Early Days in
Lagro” by Dr. Thomas (compiled by Ron Woodward))
The Lagro Community Church welcomes you to church.
Sunday School is every Sunday from 9:00 to 10:00 a.m. and worship service is at 10:00 a.m.
Dan Snyder is the speaker for Jan. 8.
Dora Christian Church, 2325 S. Salamonie Dam Road, welcomes you to worship service Sunday at 8:15 a.m. or 10:30 a.m. Sunday School is at 9:30 a.m.
Lagro United Methodist Church invites you to its Sunday morning services at 9:00 a.m., and Sunday school for all ages at 10:00 a.m. Youth group activities for students in the 4th through 12th grades are also offered. Those activities and times vary each month depending on the service project. For more informa-
tion on youth programs, parents can email the church at LagroUMC@gmail. com.
Kids’ Klub at Lagro United Methodist Church meets on Wednesdays (on days MSDWC is in session from Sept.
through the end of March) from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. Activities include: Bible lesson, singing, game time in the gym, and supper.
There are people in our community who are in need of our prayers Cont. on Pg. 11.
6 www.thepaperofwabash.com The Paper of Wabash County January 4, 2023
SQUIRREL CREEK SQUIRREL CREEK SQUIRREL CREEK SQUIRREL CREEK – BULK FOODS –HOURS: MON - SAT 8:30-5:00 574-893-1942 13653 N 500 E Roann - Miami County COLBY CHEESE lb. MILD CHEDDAR CHEESE lb. $359 PEPPER JACK CHEESE $379 lb. $299 HARD SALAMI $459lb. SMOKEHOUSE HAM lb. $399 Prices Good December 29th -January 11th While Supplies Last The proceeds from the Christmas ornament will be used to support further work in Lagro. There are also two other ornaments available that list current places in Lagro.
ASSEMBLY OF GOD
Sweetwater Assembly of God 2551 State Road 114 East, North Manchester, IN; phone 260-982-6179. Prayer Service at 9a.m.; Worship Service at 10a.m..; Wednesday Evening Discipleship at 6:30 p.m. Adult Bible Study/Elevate Youth Discipleship/KidzZone “LIVE”.
BAPTIST
Emmanuel Free Will Baptist Church 129 Southwood Dr., Wabash, Phone 563-3009. Terry Hinds, Pastor, Dylan Persinger, Youth Pastor. Sunday School 9:30am. Sunday Worship 10:30am. Wednesday Prayer Meeting & Bible Study 6pm. Bus transportation is available, call 563-3009. Online at emmanuelchurchwabash.com. Find us on facebook.
Wabash Free Will Baptist Church 1056 Erie Street, Wabash. Sunday School: 9:30 a.m., Worship Service: 10:30 a.m. Pastor: Dr. Bill Crank.
Southside Freewilll Baptist 360 Columbus St., Wabash; Church Phone 260-563-4917; Sunday School 10:00 a.m.; Worship 11:00 a.m.; Evening Service 6:00 p.m.; Wednesday Evening 6:00 p.m.; Pastor Tim Webb
Faith Baptist Church 200 Linwood Lane, Wabash; Phone 765-4702154. Old school King James Bible preaching at 10:30a.m.; Independant Pre-Millennial Dispensational; Pastor Dr. Ben Church
CATHOLIC
St. Bernard Catholic Corner of Cass & Sinclair Sts.; Fr. Jay Horning, Pastor. Parish Office and Rectory: 207 N. Cass St., phone 5634750. Weekend Masses: Saturday at 5:00 p.m. and Sunday at 9:00 a.m. Weekday Masses: Monday, Wednesday, Friday at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Thursday at 8:15 a.m.
St. Patrick's Catholic Church Main Street in Lagro. Holy Mass 11 a.m. the 1st Sunday of the month except January and February. St. Robert Bellarmine Catholic Church - We humbly invite you to experience ancient Christianity in the Church Jesus established. “You are Peter [rock], and on this rock I will build My Church” (Mathew 16:18). 1203 State Road 114 E, North Manchester, IN 260-982-4404 www.strobertsnmanchester.org. Like us on Facebook. Sacrament of Confession: Tues. 5-6PM, Wed. 5:15-6 PM, and Sat. 8-9 AM & 3:30-4:30 PM or anytime by appointment. “Therefore, confess your sins to one another”(James 5:16). Holy sacrifice of the Mass: Sat. 5PM., Sun. 9AM., and 11:30(en espanol). “for My flesh is real food and My blood is real drink” (John 6:55). For more information on Catholicism visit www.catholic.com
CHRISTIAN
Dora Christian Church located 1 1/2 miles South of Salamonie Dam, Lagro; phone 260-782-2006. Sunday School 9:30 a.m.; Early Service 8:15 a.m.; Church Service 10:30 a.m. Minister: Mark Wisniewski.
LaFontaine Christian Church 202 Bruner Pike, LaFontaine; Phone 765-981-2101; Pastor Brad Wright; Sunday School 9:00 a.m.; Worship 10:30 am. Nursery Available.
Wabash Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) 110 W. Hill St., Wabash; phone: 260-563-4179; website: www.wabashchristian.org. Worship Service 9:30 a.m. Nursery provided. Find us on YouTube and Facebook.
CHRISTIAN HERITAGE CHURCH
Christian Heritage Church 2776 River Rd.; Tim Prater, pastor. Sunday School 9:30 a.m.; Worship Service 10:30 a.m.; Sunday Evening 6:00 p.m.; Wednesday Bible Study 6:00 p.m.; Radio Ministry 8:30 a.m.-9:00 a.m. Sunday WKUZ 95.9 FM.
FIRST BRETHREN CHURCH
North Manchester First Brethren Church: 407 N. Sycamore St.; Sunday Morning Schedule – Worship: 9:00 & 10:30 am, Adult Classes: 8:00, 9:00, & 10:30 am, Youth Connect (Grades 7-12): 9:00 am, “LOFT” Children’s Church (Grades 1-6): 9:00 am, Elementary Classes: 10:30 am, “The Garden” Nursery & Preschool Classes: 9:00 & 10:30 am. Find us online: www.nmfbc.org
CHURCH OF THE BRETHREN
Wabash Church of the Brethren 645 Bond Street (off Falls Avenue) 260-563-5291. Doug Veal, Pastor. Wherever you are on life’s journey, come join us as we continue the work of JesusPeacefully, Simply, Together. HOURS: Sunday School at 9:30 a.m.; Worship at 10:30 a.m. Children’s church available during worship. Handicap accessible.
CHURCH OF CHRIST
Church of Christ at Wabash, 1904 N. Wabash St., Wabash (corner of N. Wabash St. & State Route 24); Evangelist Josh Fennell; office phone 563-8234. Sunday School 9:00 a.m.; Worship Hour 10:00 a.m.; Evening Worship Hour 6:30 p.m.; Mid-Week Bible Study Wednesdays at 7:00 p.m. Classes & activities for all ages.
COMMUNITY CHURCH
Grace Fellowship Church - Where Christ is our Passion and People are our Purpose, 4652 S. 100 W., Wabash; phone 260563-8263; Pastor Shawn Light. Sunday Morning: Sunday School 9:30 a.m.; Service 10:30 a.m. Sunday Evening Service: Faith In Action 6:00 p.m.; Wednesday Evening: Bible Study & Prayer Meeting 6:00 p.m. www.gracefellowshipwabash.com
INDEPENDENT CHRISTIAN CHURCH
Bachelor Creek Church of Christ 4 miles north of Wabash on St. Rd. 15; phone 260-563-4109; website: bachelorcreek.com; Lead Minister, Joel Cogdell; Worship Minister, Michael Eaton; Middle School/Groups Minister, Nate Plyler; Next Steps/Outreach Minister, Ryan Keim; Women’s Director, Taylor McFarland; Student Minister, David Diener; Children’s Minister, Tyler Leland; Early Childhoood Director, Janet Legesse. NOW OFFERING 2 SERVICE TIMES. Adult Bible Fellowship & Worship 9:15am & 10:45am.
Roann Christian Church 240 E Allen St, Roann, Indiana. Bible School - 9:00 am, Worship Service - 10:00 am. Chris Ponchot, Minister; 856-405-5267.
LUTHERAN
Living Faith Church (NALC) - 242 South Huntington Street, downtown at southwest corner of Market Street. Office phone 260.563.4051. Worship 10:10 a.m. with fellowship time after service. Bible study 9:00 a.m. for all ages. You honor us with your presence as we seek to serve Christ in our daily lives. All are welcome! www.LivingFaithWabash.org
ZION LUTHERAN CHURCH (LCMS) 173 Hale Drive, Wabash. Phone 260-563-1886. Pastor: Rev. Gerald Gauthier II. Sunday school and adult Bible class 9:15 a.m., worship service 10:30 a.m. Holy Communion observed the first and third Sundays. www.zionwabash.org Find us on Facebook and YouTube. Preaching and caring with Christ crucified for you!
Trinity Lutheran Church (ELCA)1500 S. Wabash St., Wabash, IN 46992, 260.563.6626, tlcwabash@gmail.com. Pastor Dr. Kent Young. We worship our Lord each Sunday at 9:30 a.m. with a Gospel-based message and Holy Communion. There is a time of fellowship and refreshments immediately following the service. We are handicap accessible and everyone is welcome at Trinity!
NON-DENOMINATIONAL
Christian Fellowship Church 1002 State Road 114 East N. Manchester, IN 46962. Christian Fellowship Church ServicesSunday Worship: 10 AM. Celebrate Recovery Tuesday at 6 PM and WOW Wednesday 6:30 PM. Pastor Jacob Good, 260-9828558. www.cfcpeople.org
Freedom Life Church (Non-Denominational Full Gospel Church) 480 Washington St., Wabash, IN 46992. Pastor Tim Morrisett, 317385-4400. Adult Sunday School 9:30 a.m., Teens Jesus and Java Sunday morning 9:30 a.m., Sunday Morning Worship 10:30 a.m., Children's Church Sunday Morning 11:00 a.m. Nursery is provided. Sunday Night Worship 6:00 p.m. Wednesday Night: Adult Bible Study 7:00 p.m., Teen Bible Study 7:00 p.m.
Wabash Friends Church 3563 S State Rd 13, Wabash, (260) 563-8452. Lead Pastor, Brandon Eaton. Join us for inperson worship at 8:30AM or 10:45AM, or via livestream on Facebook at 10:45AM. Children's programming available infants - 6th grade. Sunday school for all ages at 9:45AM. Youth (7th-12th) Sunday evenings at 6:30PM.
The Lord’s Table - Verse by Verse 4890 W. Millcreek Pike St., Wabash, Indiana, 46992. Pastor Roxane Mann 260571-7686. Wherever your Spiritual walk is, join us as we continue on. Verse by Verse - Book by Book - Chapter by Chapter - Through the Bible. Full Gospel. Sunday worship 10:30 a.m.. Wednesday Bible study 6:30 p.m.
St. Paul’s County Line Church 3995N 1000W, Andrews, IN; Phone 786-3365. Non-Denominational. Pastor Conrad Thompson. Sunday School at 9:00 a.m. Worship at 10:00 a.m. Youth program 6-8 p.m. on Sunday. Wednesday night Bible Study at 7 p.m.
Urbana Yoke Parish 75 Half Street in Urbana, phone 260-774-3516, email: urbanaparish@gmail.com. Pastor Larry Wade. Sunday School 9:00 AM, Worship 10:00 AM, Bible Study Thursday morning at 10:00 AM.
NEW LISTING
Walk by Faith Community Church 515 Chippewa Road, corner of Chippewa & Beamer Sts. in Roann; phone (765) 833-9931 or (765) 833-6561. Join us for services and children’s worship at 10:00 am, Sunday School at 9 am. Pastor - Jody Tyner. All are welcome and we would love for you to join us! www.walkbyfaithcommunitychurch.com “Walk by Faith” Youth Ministry meets every Sunday at 5 pm.
Light City Bible Church Located at 477 N. Wabash St., Wabash. Phone 260-275-4448. Sunday Worship 10AM. www.lightcitywabash.org
PRESBYTERIAN
Wabash Presbyterian Church Loving people with the heart of Christ in the heart of Wabash. Located at 123 W Hill St; phone: (260) 563-8881; on the web at www.wabashpresbyterian.com. Pastor Laura Helm. Sunday Worship Service: 10 AM. Children’s Sunday School during worship. Handicap accessible. Bible Study every Monday at 1pm. Find us on Facebook at facebook.com/wabashpresbyterian
UNITED METHODIST
Christ United Methodist Church intersections of Wabash, Stitt & Manchester Ave.; phone 563-3308. Facilities & provisions for the physically handicapped, hearing & sight impaired. Air conditioned. Sunday multi-media worship service at 10 a.m. with Choir. Email: wabashchristumc@hotmail.com
LaFontaine United Methodist Church La Fontaine United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 57 (Kendall & Main St), La Fontaine; phone: 765- 981-4021; email: lafontaineumc@gmail.com ; website: www.lafontaineumc.org ; Susan Shambaugh, Pastor; Worship: 9:30AM, Sunday School: 10:45AM, nursery provided for both.
Lincolnville United Methodist Church 5848 E. 500 S. Wabash, 765981-2648. Pastor: John Cook, 260-563-1406, pastorjohn1954@gmail.com. 9:00 a.m. Sunday School; 9:40 a.m. Fellowship time; 10:00 a.m. Morning worship. lincolnvilleumc.org
North Manchester United Methodist Church 306 East Second St., North Manchester; (260) 982-7537; Pastor Steve Bahrt. Worship 8:15 a.m.; Coffee Fellowship Time 9:00 a.m.; Sunday School 9:30 a.m.; Worship 10:30 a.m. Live Streamed on Sundays @ 10:30 a.m. on Facebook at INManchesterUMC. Website: www.northmanchesterumc.com
Richvalley United Methodist Church 290 N. Jefferson Street, Wabash, IN 46992; Phone: 260-563-1033; Pastor Jack Suits. Email: rvumc@hotmail.com. Worship: 9:30am, Sunday School: 10:45am.
Wabash First United Methodist Church 110 N. Cass St, Wabash; (260) 563-3108; www.wabashfirstumc.org; Pastor Nathan Whybrew, Youth Pastor Nick Smith. Service Times: 8am and 10am in the sanctuary, 11:30am Facebook Live, www.facebook.com/wabashfirstumc. Youth Group times: High School, Thursday, 6pm @ Wabash First UMC; Middle School, Sunday 5-7pm @ Lincolnville UMC.
WESLEYAN
Wabash North Wesleyan Church 600 Manchester Ave., Wabash. Morning Worship 10:30am; Sunday School 9:30am; Wednesday Bible Study 6:00pm. Church is wheelchair and handicap accessible. A place to feel safe and loved!
New Journey Community Church Old W.C. Mills School. 1721 Vernon Street, Wabash, IN. 9:00 a.m. - Frist Service, 10:30 a.m. - Second Service. Change is possible! Whether you are over-churched, un-churched, or de-churched you’ll find a fresh start at New Journey. We keep the important things like worship, teaching, community, and serving primary, while letting the unnecessary stuff fade into the background. Our mission is to make life transformation through Jesus Christ accessible to all people. So, come as you are and be made new!
January 4, 2023 The Paper of Wabash County www.thepaperofwabash.com 7 WITH US WORSHIP SERVICES DIRECTORY 532 N. CASS ST., WABASH, IN 46992 260-563-7478 www.terrellrealtygroup.com Faith
200
Lane
See our service times below: If You Don’t Have A King James Bible, We will Give You One! Pastor Dr
Tools, products and expert advice for all your project needs. (Formerly Wabash True Value) Jacob Terrell
Baptist Church
Linwood
VISIT
Ben Church
260-571-5297
Rev. Lowell Burrus, 87
Former Olive Branch Church of God pastor July 15, 1935 -
Dec. 25, 2022
The Rev. Lowell Eugene Burrus, 87, of Peru, formerly of rural Roann, went to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ at 5:50 a.m., Sunday morning Dec. 25, 2022, at Blair Ridge Care Facility, in Peru.
Lowell was born July 15, 1935, in Charleston, Ill., to Clyde Burrus and Alice (Collins) Burrus-Brown.
Lowell was a graduate of Charleston High School, attended Eastern Illinois University, and received his bachelor’s degree from Fort Wayne Bible College. He was married to the love of his life June (Edwards) Burrus on July 21, 1957, at the Enon Baptist Church in Ashmore Township, Illinois. Lowell enjoyed farming and the newlyweds began their family while living and farming in Hutton Township, in Coles County, Ill.
The Lord later called them to Roann in 1970. Lowell and June answered the call, and he became the lead pastor at Olive Branch Church of God, where he served faithfully for 41 years. He enjoyed preaching every Sunday to a growing congregation. Lowell ministered to numerous people through counseling; officiating weddings; visiting and praying with people in their homes and hospitals; and having the honor to speak at many funerals.
Lowell enjoyed leading teams from Olive Branch on several mission trips to Alaska, Brazil, Haiti, and Senegal Africa. It brought him so much joy to share the Gospel of Jesus.
He loved his annual trip to vacation at New Smyrna Beach, Fla., with family. Lowell followed his son John’s coaching career closely and loved to attend his grandchildren’s sporting events. Lowell was a dedicated St. Louis Cardinal fan and was known to give the Cub fans in the congregation a hard time from the pulpit. He was a member of the Casey Softball Hall of Fame, where he was given his nickname “Sox”. Lowell also had a passion for trains.
He is survived by his two children Julie (Steve) Deniston of Roann; John (Tammy) of Denver; daughter-in-law Carie Burrus of Auburn; five grandchildren Tiffany (Jonathan) Branam of Muncie; Charity Burrus of Auburn; Joel (Ashley) Burrus of Rochester; Alicia (Blake) Robinson and Lael (Brandon) Larrick, both of Pittsboro; 13 great-grandchildren Josiah, Judah, Samuel, Ezekiel, and Esther Branam; Adrian Fry; Jackson, Grayson, and Easton Burrus; Riggins and Paisley Robinson; Banner and Boden Larrick; and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his wife June Burrus, his parents, his son, Paul Burrus, and his brothers, Clyde Burrus Jr. and Paul Burrus, and sister, Sophia Lou Shafer.
Visitation and funeral services were Friday, Dec. 30, 2022, at Olive Branch Church of God, 4581 E 1200 N, Roann. The Rev. Scott Sims will officiate. Burial will be in Enterprise Cemetery, Roann.
Arrangements by Grandstaff-Hentgen Funeral Service, Roann.
Orpha Moyer, 97
Retired from Eaton Controls
Nov. 23, 1925 – Dec. 28, 2022
Orpha Ruth Moyer, 97, of rural Wabash, died at 6:30 a.m., Wednesday, Dec. 28, 2022, at her home. She was born on Nov. 23, 1925, in Cass County, to Walter E. and Ola Fern (Nead) Stout.
Orpha was a 1943 graduate of Onward High School. She married Harold Moyer in May of 1945; he died Nov. 10, 1966. She worked at Eaton Controls in North Manchester, retiring after 20 years. Orpha was a member of the Dunkard Brethren Church in Peru. She enjoyed being outside, gardening, cooking, and taking care of her family.
She is survived by two children, Roger Moyer and Priscilla Mathis; and two grandchildren, Charles D. Kreider and Patricia Piper, all of Wabash; six great-grandchildren, and two greatgreat-grandchildren.
She was also preceded in death by her parents, two sons, Edward and Tony Moyer; three grandchildren, Sherri Kreider, Timmy Kreider, and Lisa Moyer; six brothers, Owen, Walter, Paul, Raymond, Chelsia, and Estel Stout, and her sister, Wilma Smith.
Visitation and services were Saturday, Dec. 31, 2022, at Grandstaff-Hentgen Funeral Service, 1241 Manchester Ave., Wabash, with Pastor Mike Wray and Robert Carpenter officiating. Burial will be in Laketon Cemetery, Laketon.
Preferred memorial is Animal Shelter of Wabash County.
The memorial guest book for Orpha may be signed at www.grandstaff-hentgen.com.
Billy Joe Morris, 85 Retired from Majestic
April 23, 1937 – Dec. 24, 2022
Billy Joe Morris, 85, North Manchester, joined his wife, Betty, at the gates of heaven on Dec. 24, 2022. Born in Switzer, W.Va., on April 23, 1937, Billy was the son of the late Allen and Lora (Workman) Morris.
On May 21, 1961, Billy married the love of his life, Betty Joyce Skeens. The two were wed for 61 years before Betty passed away on Nov. 4, 2022. In 1966 Billy and Betty moved to North Manchester from Switzer, for the promise of better jobs. Always wanting the best for his family, Billy worked hard to provide them the best life possible. He was employed at Peabody Seating Company in North Manchester for many years and then at Majestic in Huntington, where he worked in quality control before becoming a supervisor until his retirement. Even when Billy wasn’t at work, he found things to do around the house to improve it. He was an honest and straightforward man who always gave to those in need. Billy taught his family the value of hard work and how to be independent, even ensuring they knew how to maintain their own vehicles. He had a passion for working on vehicles and once went so far as to custom build a van. On Sundays Billy attended the Christian Fellowship Church in North Manchester before returning home to watch Dale Earnhardt race.
The loving memory of Billy J. Morris will be forever cherished by his son, Billy Joe (Teresa) Morris Jr., North Manchester; daughter, Joyce Ann (Monty) Zorn, North Manchester; two grandchildren; four step-grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; 11 step-great-grandchildren; and sisters, Mary Lou Skeens, North Manchester, and Elaine Boggs (Barry) Browning, Omar, W.Va.
Billy was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Betty Morris; brothers, Raymond Lee Morris and Carlos Morris; and sisters, Lois Gail Morris, Doris Ann Morris, and Carol Sue Morris.
Visitation was Friday, Dec. 30, 2022 at McKee Mortuary, 1401 State Road 114 West, North Manchester. Visitation and funeral services were Saturday, Dec. 31, 2022, at at McKee Mortuary, with Pastor Jeremy Jones officiating. Burial was at Lakeview Cemetery, Myrtle Glen Drive, Silver Lake, Indiana.
For those who wish to honor the memory of Billy Morris, memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, 50 East 91st Street, Suite 100, Indianapolis, IN 46240 or the Wabash County Animal Shelter, 810 Manchester Ave, Wabash, IN 46992.
The family of Billy Morris has entrusted McKee Mortuary with care and final arrangements.
Condolences may be emailed to mckeemortuary.com
Michelle Neal, 34
Worked at Whitko High School
June 7, 1988 – Dec. 26, 2022
Michelle June Witmer Neal, 34, North Manchester, died Dec. 26, 2022.
Visitation was Dec. 30 at West Manchester Old German Baptist Church Conference. Services were Dec. 31 at the church. McKee Mortuary handled arrangements.
Robert Jones, 64
Enjoyed video games
April 4, 1958 – Dec. 24, 2022
Robert Earl Jones, 64, Roann, died Dec. 24, 2022.
He was born on April 4, 1958.
Graveside service was Dec. 30 at Crystal Community Cemetery.
Arrangements by Brosmer-Kemple Funeral Home, French Lick.
8 www.thepaperofwabash.com The Paper of Wabash County January 4, 2023
Thomas Gautschi, 84
Owned floor covering business
July 25, 1938 - Dec. 27, 2022
Thomas “Tom” W. Gautschi, 84, of Wabash, passed away at 4:45 a.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 27, 2022, at his residence. He was born on July 25, 1938, to John and Elizabeth Gautschi in Warren, Ohio.
Tom was a graduate of Holland High School. He was a self-employed flooring mechanic for many years and owned Gautschi and Chain Floor
Covering in downtown Wabash. Tom was a perfectionist and enjoyed building model driving horses, trains, and airplanes. Tom loved the Lord and was a God-fearing man; he spread the Gospel in many countries throughout his lifetime. He loved camping, horseback riding, and sitting around the campfire. In his younger years he was an avid sportsman, playing basketball, softball, bowling, archery, and water skiing. He married Delores Roth on Sept. 19, 1959.
Tom is survived by his wife, Delores Gautschi of Wabash; three daughters, Cathleen (Larry) Wilke of Hamlet, Diane Barton of Wabash, Cindy Gautschi of South Whitley; six grandchildren, Brandon (Tera) Barton of Winchester, Calif., Trishina (Greg) Johnson of Milan, Ohio, Keith (Jenifer) Gautschi of Claypool, Sonya Wilke of St. Petersburg, Fla., John (Katelynn) Wilke of Rolling Prairie, and Addison Wilke of Fort Wayne; 11 great-grandchildren; and one sister, Marilyn Gautschi of Warren, Ohio.
He is proceeded in death by his parents, one brother, Sonny Gautschi, and one grandson, Wyatt Wilke.
Per Tom’s request there will be no services. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
Memorial donations can be made to McDonald Funeral Home to help offset final expenses.
McDonald Funeral Homes, 231 Falls Avenue, Wabash, have been trusted with Thomas Gautschi’s final arrangements.
Online condolences may be directed to the family at www.mcdonaldfunerals.com
Michael Schuler, 59
Was a lifelong farmer
March 30, 1963 - Dec. 25, 2022
Michael Todd “Mike” Schuler, 59, of rural Roann, died unexpectedly at 2:27 a.m., Sunday, Dec. 25, 2022, at Parkview Wabash Hospital. He was born on March 30, 1963, in Wabash, to John Philip “J.P.” and Geri (Pries) Schuler.
Mike was a 1981 graduate of Northfield High School, The Heartland Career Center, and a 1987 graduate of Purdue University, where he was a brother of Alpha Gamma Rho fraternity, Delta Chapter. He married his one true love, Andrea Piety, at the East 91st Christian Church in Indianapolis, on Aug. 15, 1992. Mike was a lifelong farmer who was passionate about involving his children in his farming operation. His legacy will continue through them. He was also a commodity broker at Kokomo Commodities. Mike served as trustee for Paw Paw Township and was a Beck’s Seed dealer. He was a member of the Wabash First United Methodist Church and a member of the ABBMR Tractor Pulling Club.
Mike was a one of a kind husband, dad, brother, and grandpa. He lived life to the fullest with a smile on his face, never taking a day for granted. His favorite thing to do was spending time with his family and loved ones, eating as a family, playing games, and creating opportunities that led to adventures.
He is survived by his wife of 30 years, Andrea Schuler of Roann; four children, Natalie (Collin) Dawes of Urbana, Jake Schuler, John (Jordan Michel) Schuler, and Annie Schuler, all of Roann; grandson Easton Dawes of Urbana; and two sisters, Debbie (Dan) Kistler of Peru, and Deanna Schuler of North Manchester, . He was preceded in death by his parents, and his daughter, Amelia Schuler.
Funeral services were Saturday, Dec. 31, 2022, at First United Methodist Church, 110 N. Cass Street, Wabash, with Pastor John Cook and the Rev. Nathan Whybrew officiating. Burial will be in Roann Community Cemetery. Visitation was Friday, Dec. 30, at the church. Arrangements by Grandstaff-Hentgen Funeral Service, Wabash.
Preferred memorials are the Mike Schuler Memorial Scholarship for the Heartland Career Center Precision Ag Program in care of the Community Foundation of Wabash County, or the Mike Schuler Memorial Scholarship in care of the Alpha Gamma Rho Fraternity Delta Chapter at Purdue University.
The memorial guest book for Mike may be signed at www.grandstaff-hentgen.com.
Jerry Howard, 61
Worked at Drudge Screw
March 16, 1961 - Dec. 15, 2022
Jerry Wayne Howard, 61, of Wabash, passed away on Thursday, Dec. 15, 2022.
He was born to the late Robert and Doris (Lands) Howard in Harlan, Ky., on March 16, 1961. Jerry graduated from Wabash High School. He loved fishing and was an avid NASCAR fan. Jerry worked for Drudge Screw as a CNC Machinist. He attended Southside Freewill Baptist in Wabash.
Jerry is survived by his siblings, Robert (Lori) Howard of Vancouver, Wash., Danny (Janet) Howard of Wabash, Carolyn (Jeffery) Monce of Wabash, Kathy (Steven) Weidner of Wabash, and Roger (Amanda) Howard of Waco, Texas; and a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins. Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by sisters, Gennie Howard and Sonia Howard.
Private family services will be held and burial will take place at the Gardens of Memory Cemetery in Marion, at a later
date.
Memorial may be made to the Cancer Services of Northeast Indiana or Autism Speaks.
Leonard Drook, 90
Was truck driver for Alloys
June 29, 1932 – Dec. 23, 2022
Leonard D. Drook, 90, a lifetime resident of Wabash, passed away at 4:22 a.m. on, Friday, Dec. 23, 2022, at his residence. He was born to Donald C. and Mary L. (Renbarger) Drook on June 29, 1932, in Wabash.
Leonard was a 1950 graduate of Wabash High School. He married Mary Kaiser on February 14, 1952. He was a truck driver for Wabash Alloys and retired in 1994.
Leonard had a great love for horses, dogs loved him, and later in life he was a crew member for a national motorcycle racing champion. Most of all he loved his family. He was a member of Saint Bernard Catholic Church in Wabash and Teamsters Union in Marion, Indiana.
Leonard is survived by his wife, Mary Drook of Wabash; two daughters, Cathy Drook (Mel Crichton) of Big Sky, Mont., Amy Drook of Wabash; one son-in-law, Jeff Claire of Watseka, Ill.; seven grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.
He is proceeded in death by his parents, two sons, Donald Drook and Richard Drook, and one daughter, Marybeth (Drook) Claire.
Mass of Christian Burial was Thursday, Dec. 29, 2022, at St. Bernard Catholic Church in Wabash, with Father Jay Horning officiating. Burial will follow at Falls Cemetery.
Visitation was Wednesday, Dec. 28, 2022, and included the Recitation of the Rosary at 6:45 p.m. at McDonald Funeral Home, 231 Falls Ave., Wabash.
Preferred memorials are to be directed to Wabash County Cancer Society in care of McDonald Funeral Homes.
McDonald Funeral Homes, Wabash Chapel, 231 Falls Avenue, Wabash, Indiana 46992, have been trusted with Leonard Drook’s final arrangements.
Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.mcdonaldfunerals.com
Fred Napier, 83
Enjoyed repairing lawmakers
Aug. 11, 1939 – Dec. 28, 2022
Fred G. Napier, 83, of Wabash, died on Dec. 28, 2022, at Parkview Wabash Hospital.
He was born Aug. 11, 1939.
Services were Tuesday, Jan. 3, 2023, at Grandstaff-Hentgen Funeral Service, Wabash, Visitation was Monday, at the funeral home.
January 4, 2023
www.thepaperofwabash.com 9
The Paper of Wabash County
Edward J.D. Boggs, 89 U.S. Army veteran May 24, 1933 - Dec. 27, 2022
Edward J.D. Boggs, 89, of rural Wabash, died at 10:15 a.m., Tuesday, Dec. 27, 2022, at Bickford Cottage in Wabash. He was born on May 24, 1933, in Oven Fork, Ky., to Coy and ClaraBelle (Collier) Boggs.
Ed married Lucille Scott on April 22, 1950, in Cumberland, Ky.; she died Sept. 26, 2007. He was a U.S. Army veteran and retired from General Tire in Wabash in 1995, after 32 years.
He was a member of the Wabash First Church of God and a 58 year member of the Hanna Masonic Lodge.
Ed enjoyed archery, and competed in archery competitions, hunting, working on small engines, plowing snow, cutting wood, and excavating. Later in life, Ed became serious about Jesus Christ and read his Bible daily.
He is survived by three children, Sharon (Ronald) Greiner of Wabash, Melessa (Todd) Eltzroth of Roann, and Dwayne (Joann) Boggs of Wabash; four grandchildren, Rachel Boggs of Claypool, Scott (Andrea) Greiner, Margaret Boggs, and Angela (Matthew) Ryggs, all of Wabash; five great-grandchildren, Dixie Burrell of Claypool, Weston Greiner, Olivia Greiner, Russell Ryggs, and Lincoln Ryggs, all of Wabash; his sister, Molly Lewis of Cumberland, Ky.; and special friends Marie Tackett, and Scott and Iris Dereg.
He was also preceded in death by his parents, three brothers, Palmer Boggs, Vincent Boggs, and Roy Boggs, and his sister, Woneva Statzer. Services will be private, with Pastor Robb Rensberger officiating. Burial will be in Memorial Lawns Cemetery, Wabash. Arrangements by Grandstaff-Hentgen Funeral Service, Wabash. Preferred memorial is Wabash First Church of God.
The memorial guest book for Ed may be signed at www.grandstaff-hentgen.com.
James Branson, 82 U.S. Army veteran Jan. 1, 1940 - Dec. 27, 2022
James D. “Jim” Branson, 82, of Wabash, went to be with his Lord at 5:37 p.m., Tuesday, Dec. 27, 2022, at Parkview Regional Medical Center in Fort Wayne.
He was born on Jan. 1, 1940, in Harlan, Ky., to Charles Henry and Mary (Farmer) Branson.
Jim married Barbara “Sue” Miller in Virginia on Feb. 23, 1963. He worked at General Tire in Wabash, retiring in 1995 after 31 years. He was a U.S. Army veteran and a member of the Jalapa Free Will Baptist Church.
Jim enjoyed watching westerns on television and was an avid Kentucky Wildcat fan.
He is survived by his wife, Sue Branson of Wabash; granddaughter, Crystal (Aaron) Lochard, and two great-grandchildren, Ethan Lochard and Emily Lochard, all of LaFontaine; his sister-in-law, Anna Branson of Wabash; and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, daughter, Glenna Cox, two brothers, Melvin Donald Branson and Jack Branson, and two sisters, Margaret Sue Branson and Billie Napier.
Funeral services were Tuesday, Jan. 3, 2023, at GrandstaffHentgen Funeral Service, 1241 Manchester Ave., Wabash, with Lou Hunt officiating. Burial will be in Memorial Lawns Cemetery, Wabash. Visitation was Monday, Jan. 2, at the funeral home.
The memorial guest book for Jim may be signed at www.grandstaff-hentgen.com.
Lori Rietman, 60
Worked at Tower Farms
Nov. 26, 1962 - Dec. 21, 2022
Lori D. Rietman, 60, of Wabash, passed away at 7:15 a.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 21, 2022, at her residence. She was born on Nov. 26, 1962, to Gary and Sally (Swanson) Dionne in Marquette, Mich.
Lori had worked at Tower Farms at Josiah White’s in Wabash, as a student mentor since February of 2022. She loved gardening, art, photography, fashion, and was an amazing cook. Lori loved the children at Josiah White’s, and they definitely loved her back.
Lori is survived by her daughter, Sara Rietman of Dekalb, Ill.; her mother, Sally Dionne of Marquette, Mich.; two brothers; one sister; and her beloved friend, Lisa (Jeff) Cook of Wabash.
She is proceeded in death by her father.
A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date.
McDonald Funeral Homes, 231 Falls Avenue, Wabash, have been trusted with Lori Rietman’s final arrangements.
Online condolences may be directed to the family at www.mcdonaldfunerals.com