Obituaries
Marlene J. Nelson
February 13, 1939 to September 7, 2024
WINAMAC - Marlene Joyce “Mar” Nelson, 85, of Elmhurst, IL (formerly of Winamac and Griffith) passed away peacefully Sept. 7, surrounded by her loving family.
She was born Feb. 13, 1939 in Elbow Lake, MN to the late Gustav and Esther [Struck] Bensch. She married Arnold “Arnie” Nelson on June 28, 1957, in Nashua, MN. He passed away Sept. 11, 2010. The couple’s journey took them through Texas and Michigan before settling in Indiana where they raised their family.
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| Mar Nelson |
She is survived by:
Mark (Diann) Nelson, Son
Matthew (Christine) Nelson Son
Kay (Darrin Doan) Nelson, Daughter
Grandchildren: David (Keri) Nelson, Heather (Mike) Doane, Ken Nelson, Kim Nelson, Jared Nelson Doan, and Spencer Nelson Doan.
Great-grandchildren: Andrew Nelson, Isabelle Doane, Tristan Nelson, and Evelyn Doane.
Nels (Mary) Nelson, Brother-in-law
Many Nieces and Nephews
Bella Star, her fluffy dog
She was preceded in death by:
Bruce Nelson, Son
Dorothy (Beryl) Bratton, Sister
Delorse (Harvey) Lohse, Sister
Lester (Bette) Bensch, Brother
Mrs. Nelson dedicated 28 years as the school secretary at Wadsworth Elementary in Griffith, retiring in 1998. Her warm smile, kindness, and collection of beanie babies endeared her to students and staff. After retiring, she and her husband moved to Winamac where she continued her passion for cooking and canning pickles - affectionately earning her the nickname “the pickle lady.” When Marlene wasn’t canning, she could often be found watching hundreds of her beloved hummingbirds which she welcomed to the feeder outside her window. She was also actively involved with the VFW Auxiliary Post #1728 in Winamac, where she enjoyed cooking for events and helping with the weekly bingo game.
Her most cherished role was as “GMa” (Grandma). She loved spoiling her grandchildren and great-grandchildren - continuing one of her favorite traditions of baking and decorating Christmas sugar cookies each year. In 2016, she moved to Elmhurst, IL, to be closer to her daughter, Kay, and her family. She embraced her new home and especially enjoyed frequent visits with her daughter and grandchildren. She was quick to make new friends and loved playing bingo and poker with them. She was a strong woman whose kindness, fun-loving spirit, and friendship touched many lives. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.
A graveside service will be at 11 a.m., Friday, Sept. 27, at Winamac Cemetery (McKinley Addition) in Winamac. It will be followed by a luncheon at the Winamac VFW. A celebration of Marlene’s life service will be at 12 noon to 3 p.m. CT Saturday, Sept. 28, at 100 South Restaurant in Elmhurst, IL.
Memorial donations may be made to AdventHhealth St. Thomas Hospice.
Online tributes may be offered at www.frainmortary.com
Local arrangements have been entrusted to Frain Mortuary in Winamac.
Gerald G. Crozier
July 21, 1942 to September 5, 2024
FRANCESVILLE - Gerald Glen “Jerry” Crozier, 82, of Monticello, passed away Thursday, Sept. 5, at his home, surrounded by his family.
He was born July 21, 1942 in East Chicago, to the late Charles Glen and Dorothy Louise [Jones] Crozier. As a young boy, he enjoyed summers spent staying with family at Lake Shafer in Monticello. He graduated from George Rogers Clark High School in 1960. Following high school, he enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps, serving four years of active duty and two years in the reserves. On June 24, 1967, he married Elaine C. Sell in Whiting. She survives.
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| Jerry Crozier |
He is also survived by:
Charles (Marci) Crozier, Monticello, Son
Katherine (Tom) Smith, La Porte, Daughter
Twin Granddaughters: Rachel and Amanda
Bonus Grandchildren: Gabe, Whitney, Harlee, Michelle, Derek, and Adam
8 Bonus Great-Grandchildren
John Crozier, Monticello, Brother
Many Nieces and Nephews
Preceded in death by:
Linda (Sonny) Volom, Sister
Rick (Dale) Crozier, Brother
Vincent and Leda [Hupke] Sell, In-Laws
Mr. Crozier retired from S & B Distributors after 20-plus years. After retirement, he worked as a custodian at St. John’s UCC in Michigan City, for many years. He and Elaine enjoyed their “second retirement” at their Lake Shafer home. He was a member of St. John’s UCC in Michigan City and St. James Salem UCC in Francesville. He served many years on the St. John’s Church Consistory and was active in many areas of church leadership in both congregations. He was also active at the state level of the United Church of Christ, serving on the Indiana-Kentucky Conference, including the Northwest Association and Western Association of the conference. He served many years as chairman of the board for the Merom Camp and Retreat Center in Merom, IN. He had a strong faith that sustained him throughout his life, allowing him to lead and serve others in the name of Jesus Christ. He enjoyed fishing, remodeling cottages and listening to old school country music. He was a model train enthusiast and collector. Additionally, he was an avid Chicago Cubs and Chicago Bears fan. Family was paramount to him and he cherished time spent together with them, especially going to “fishing at the lake” with his twin granddaughters. He will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him.
Visitation will be from 2 to 6 p.m., Sunday, Sept. 8, at Frain Mortuary Querry-Ulbricht Chapel in Francesville; and one hour prior to services at the church on Monday. The funeral service will be at 11 a.m., Monday, Sept. 9, at St. James Salem United Church of Christ in Francesville with Pastors Dennis Meyer and Kay Bond officiating. Burial will be at St. James Salem Cemetery in Francesville. The American Legion and U.S. Marine Corps will conduct military graveside services.
Memorial donations may be made to St. James Salem United Church of Christ or Lewy Body Dementia Association (lbda.org). Envelopes will be provided by the funeral home.
Online tributes may be offered at www.frainmortuary.com.
Margaret A. Miller Johnson
February 5, 1960 to September 2, 2024
WINAMAC - Margaret Ann “Sue” Miller Johnson, 64, of Evanston, IL (formerly of North Judson) passed away Monday, Sept. 2.
She was born Feb. 5, 1960 in Chicago Heights, IL to Clell and Rita [Teutemacher] Miller. She graduated from North Judson High School in 1978 and from Valparaiso University in 1982.
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| Sue Johnson |
She is survived by:
Minner (Steve) Fites, Sister
Eliza (Glenn) Brodbelt, Sister
Robbie Sallee, Brother
Mary Ann Sallee, Sister
Many Nieces and Nephews
Preceded in death by:
Nicholas Emil Johnson, Husband
Clell Miller, Father
Rita Miller Sallee, Mother
Bob Sallee, Step-Father
Mrs. Johnson was an accountant and talented public speaker. She enjoyed reading books and playing board games as well as card games – she was great at Rummy. She loved listening to music, especially Barry Manilow. She was an avid Green Bay Packers fan, and her favorite movie was “The Sound of Music.” She cherished her friendships with all involved at Connections for the Homeless. She will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved her.
Visitation will be from 12 noon to 2 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 21, at Frain Mortuary in Winamac. A memorial service will follow at 2 p.m. (Sept. 21), at the funeral with celebrant Ashley Young officiating. Connections for the Homeless will host a community memorial service from 4 to 5:30 p.m., Tuesday, Sept. 24, at Macleish Hall in Evanston. Private burial will take place at Highland Cemetery in North Judson.
Memorial donations may be made to Connections for the Homeless.
Online condolences may be offered at www.frainmortuary.com.
Ruth P. Hayes
January 9, 1943 to August 30, 2024
WINAMAC - Ruth Pauline Hayes, 81, of Winamac (formerly of North Judson) passed away Friday, Aug. 30, at her home.
She was born Jan. 9, 1943 in Oneida, NY to the late Bert Rufus and Norine Elizabeth [Hancock] Rowe. On Oct. 11, 1965, she married Herman Rogers Hayes in Colorado Springs, CO. He passed away Nov. 30, 2019.
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| Ruth Hayes |
She is survived by:
Roger Hayes, Royal Center, Son
Valerie (Craig) Jones, Winamac, Daughter
James Hayes, North Judson, Son
11 Grandchildren
22 Great-Grandchildren
Rose Myers, Mooresville, Sister
Bill (Sanom) Potter, Auburn, NY, Brother
Several Nieces and Nephews
Preceded in death by:
Truman Rowe, Brother
Mrs. Hayes was a loving and devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She was “mom” to many kids over the years. She attended church regularly and enjoyed teaching Sunday School and singing in the choir. She read her Bible every day and was devoted to serving her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
The funeral service will be at 6 p.m., Tuesday, Sept. 3, at Frain Mortuary in Winamac with Pastor Mark Pilger officiating. Private burial will be at Oak Grove Cemetery in La Crosse.
Memorial donations may be made to the funeral home to assist the family with final expenses.
Online tributes may be offered at www.frainmortuary.com.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Frain Mortuary in Winamac.
Deanna G. Vierke
August 12, 1976 to August 26, 2024
WINAMAC - Deanna G. Vierke, 48, of Logansport, passed away Monday, Aug. 26, at her home.
She was born Aug. 12, 1976 in Saginaw, MI. She graduated from West Central High School in Francesville.
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| Deanna Vierke |
She is survived by:
Raven T. Vierke, Daughter
Joanne Neeley, Daughter-in-law
Kyle E. Neeley Jr., Grandson
Jazmen A. Neeley, Granddaughter
Kayne A. Neeley, Grandson
Daniel P. Vierke, Brother
Gina A. Napier, Sister
Gabrielle Rowe, Niece
Cheyann Westerman, Niece
Alexys Neeley, Niece
Alexzander Neeley, Nephew
Several Great-Nieces and -Nephews
Numerous Aunts, Uncles, and Cousins
Preceded in death by:
Eugene L. and Gloria J. Napier, Parents
Kyle E. Neeley Sr., Son
Shantelle E. Vierke, Niece
Ms. Vierke enjoyed astrology and art. She especially enjoyed spending time with her family. She was a loving and devoted mother and grandmother who will be deeply missed.
Visitation will be from 4 to 8 p.m., Thursday, Aug. 29, at Frain Mortuary in Winamac. The funeral service will be at 11 a.m., Friday, Aug. 30, at the funeral home Burial will be at Round Lake Cemetery in Knox.
Memorial donations may be made to daughter Raven to help her with college tuition.
Online tributes may be offered at www.frainmortuary.com.
Paul D. DeGroot
June 22, 1938 to August 21, 2024
ROYAL CENTER - Paul D. DeGroot, 86 of Winamac passed away peacefully at 11:21 p.m., Wednesday, Aug. 21, at home.
Born on June 22, 1938 in Chicago, he was the son of the late Herman and Teresa (Wasner) DeGroot.
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| Paul DeGroot |
Survivors include his wife Sheryl Diane (Feece) DeGroot of Winamac; children Kelly (Tom Morphet) Bierrum, Samantha (Aaron) Malchow, Sheryl Gaillard, Perrin (Katie) DeGroot, Kim (Kevin) Podell; brothers Roy (Patricia) DeGroot and Donald (Judith) DeGroot, and sister Judith Tompkins. Also, grandchildren Thomas Johnston, Tyler Campbell, Jillian (Justice Hartley) Hankla, Emily (Shawn) Elston, Abigail (Dakota) Manns, Hannah (Hunter) Koch, Jack DeGroot, Brian (Bethany) Podell, Megan (Mike) Mosher, Nathan (Alex) Bierrum, Katie Bierrum and Shannon Bierrum; plus great-grandchildren Faith, Kylie, Kara and Gavin Johnston, Ellie and Parker Campbell, Hunter Hartley, Sadie, Easton and Owen Manns, Alene Podell, and Henry and Hudson Mosher.
Paul was preceded in death by his parents, brother and sister-in-law Everett (Alberta) Brink, daughter Sandra Johnston, brother-in-law Daniel Tompkins, and son-in-law Micheal Bierrum.
Mr. DeGroot was a welder and machinist. He formerly owned and operated Anvil and Saw. He was a proud NRA member and a collector of everything.
A celebration of life gathering will be from 2 to 4 p.m., Saturday, Aug. 31, at Paul and Sheryl’s home.
Memorial donations may be made to a charity of donor’s choice.
Mr. DeGroot’s online guestbook is available, and condolences may be shared with the family at www.ransfuneralhomes.com.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Rans Funeral Homes, Royal Center.
Jack D. Heidel
January 10, 1947 to August 20, 2024
WINAMAC - Jack Dean Heidel, 77, of North Judson, passed away Tuesday, Aug. 20, at Pulaski Health Care Center in Winamac.
He was born Jan. 10, 1947 in La Porte, to the late William LeRoy and Thelma Adeline Heidel. He was a 1965 graduate of North Judson High School. He served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War and was a lifetime member of the VFW Post #748 in Knox.
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| Jack Heidel |
He is survived by:
Jenny Hurt, Star City, Daughter
Melissa Gainer, Star City, Daughter
Kendra (Harlin) Manns, North Judson, Daughter
12 Grandchildren: Joshua, Caitlin, Cree, Kelsie, Morgan, Alexa, Brooke, Seth, Kruz, Maelee, Whitley, and Sarabeth
10 Great-Grandchildren
Mike Heidel, Bass Lake, Brother
Pat (Squeek) Liskey, North Judson, Sister
Cheri Heidel, Sister-in-law
Many Nieces and Nephews
Preceded in death by:
Lee Heidel, Brother
Mr. Heidel had an adventurous life with too many stories to tell. He enjoyed socializing with friends at local places like the Irish Pub and the Wooden Nickel. He also enjoyed watching old John Wayne Westerns and listening to music, especially classic rock and shared that passion with his family. Most of all, he loved to spend time with his family, especially his grandchildren.
Private burial will take place at Highland Cemetery in North Judson.
Memorial donations may be made to the Knox VFW.
Online tributes may be offered at www.frainmortuary.com.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Frain Mortuary in Winamac.
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