Obituaries

Francis F. Schultz

June 26, 1944 to January 27, 2025

WINAMAC - Francis “Fran” F. Schultz, 80, of Winamac, passed away Monday, Jan. 27.

Fran Schultz

She was born June 26, 1944 in Brookland, Ark. to Walter and Elsie (Dunn) Collins. She graduated from Bay High School. She married Del Schultz who survives.

She is also survived by son Houston (Bev) George; stepchildren Lyn Schultz, Kim Schultz and Mark Schultz; grandchildren Nick, Miranda, Mitch, Kayla, David and Jamie; great-grandchildren Leilana, Dexter, James, Skyler, Logan, Cameron and Carter; brothers Floyd Collins and Jerry Collins; sisters Lois Carter and Ruby Clayton. 

She is preceded in death by her parents; sons Jack “Bulldog” George and Scott Schultz; granddaughter Elissa; grandson Chris; sisters Micky Sue Collins and Betty Spencer; and brother Clois Collins. 

Mrs. Schultz loved sunsets, bowling, fishing, volleyball and softball. She was a member of the 600 Club, Michigan City Women’s Bowling Hall of Fame and Logan Land United States Bowling Hall of Fame.

Visitation will be from 7 to 9 p.m., Friday, Jan. 31, at Rans Funeral Homes Winamac Chapel. The funeral service will be at 1 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 1, at the funeral home with burial to follow at McKinley Memorial Gardens in Winamac. 

Mrs. Schultz’s online guestbook is available, and condolences may be shared with the family at www.RansFuneralHomes.com.

Linda A. Ferguson

July 31, 1954 to January 24, 2025

WINGATE - Linda Ann Ferguson, 70, of Brownsburg (formerly of Francesville), passed away Friday, Jan. 24.  

She was born July 3, 1954, in lndianapolis, the daughter of Marvin B. Ferguson who survives in Brownsburg and the late Betty Janeice Walter Ferguson. She was a graduate of Brownsburg High School, received a bachelor’s degree in education from lndiana State University and a master’s degree in education from lndiana University.

Linda Ferguson

She is also survived by a brother, David (Janelle) Ferguson of Brownsburg; a nephew, Matthew (Debra) Ferguson of Danville; a great-nephew, Daniel (Danielle) Ferguson of Fishers; a great-niece, Dinah (Joshua) Powell of Greencastle; and a great-great niece.  

In addition to her mother, she was preceded in death by grandparents, Floyd and Ada Ferguson, Clifford and Celia Walter; nephew Michael Sander; 7 uncles, 6 aunts and 3 cousins.  

Ms. Ferguson began her teaching career at North Decatur High School. In 1978, she was hired as a business educator at West Central High School in Francesville, retiring in 2013. She spent 35 years dedicating her life to teaching, and was a well-respected and admired teacher who touched a multitude of lives. Following her retirement from teaching, she worked for the Francesville-Salem Township Public Library and Meadow Springs Celebration venue. While in Francesville, she attended the Francesville United Methodist Church and later the First United Methodist Church in Winamac. She wanted to live in the country, so purchased land east of Francesville where she constructed a log cabin. She loved making it her home, being able to tend her flowers, garden, pond, birdfeeders, and beloved pets. She enjoyed traveling, golfing, beekeeping, spinning and knitting, and game nights with friends. She also loved ballroom dancing and baking, especially pies. Compelled to be a student of ovarian oncology later in life, she developed an intimate appreciation for compassionate physicians, nurses, and caretakers who are called to practice this medical science. Bless them all. 

Visitation will be from 9 to 11:30 a.m., Saturday, Feb. 22, at Calvary United Methodist Church, 575 W. Northfield Dr. Brownsburg.  A funeral service will follow at 11:40 a.m.  with Pastors Jolita Eberle and Michelle Knight officiating. A family and friends celebration meal at the church will conclude the memorial.

Memorial donations may be directed to Calvary United Methodist Church.

Family and Friends Funeral Home of Wingate is entrusted with arrangements. Visit online at www.familyandfriendsfh.com  to sign the guest book or share a memory.

Richard W. Smith

May 3, 1937 to January 19, 2025

WINAMAC - Richard W. Smith, 87, of Winamac, passed away peacefully Sunday, Jan. 19, at his home with his wife by his side.

He was born May 3, 1937 at the family farm outside of Lawton, to the late Walter L. and Virginia Eva [Bridegroom] Smith. He was a 1955 graduate of Monterey High School where he enjoyed being a part of the basketball team. He joined the U.S. Navy on Feb. 29, 1956 and was stationed in Quonset Point, RI. He was honorably discharged Dec. 22, 1957 and served out his reserve obligation from home. He married Pauline A. [Miller] Bonnell on May 18, 1985, in Greasewood Flats, AZ. She survives.

Richard Smith

He is also survived by:
Rory R. (Stephanie) Smith, Monterey, Son
Jackie Smith, Culver, Daughter-in-law
Shan Elisa (Doug) Farmer, St. Joseph, MI, Daughter
Alicia R. (Ron) Lucas, St. Peters, MO, Daughter
Justin R. Smith, Indianapolis, Son
Grandchildren: Rhiannon Banks, Jacob Smith, Alex Sage, Taylor Odle, Jebediah Smith, Maggie Smith, Kristi Sprout, Keaton Smith, Kourtney Smith, Cole Lucas, and Dru Lucas. Numerous Great-Grandchildren
Michael E. (Rosie) Smith, Brother
Linda Smith, Sister-in-law
Several Nieces and Nephews
Jeffery O. (Diana) Bonnell, Warsaw, Step-Son
Kenton D. (Jane) Bonnell, Kewanna, Step-Son
Michelle J. Grostefon, Winamac, Step-Daughter
Bradley J. (Tonya) Bonnell, Winamac, Step Son
Step-Grandchildren: Ryan Bonnell, Jacob Bonnell, Kristin Clemons, Kraig Clemons, Kayla Adams, Shane Bonnell, Devin Bonnell, Casey Bonnell, Andrea Davis, Melissa Ledman, Erin Morehead, Katie Grayson, Keilly Parish, Dawson Grostefon, and Evan Bonnell.
Numerous Step-Great-Grandchildren

Preceded in death by:
Ryan C. Smith, Son
Everett L. (Pat) Smith, Brother
Kenneth L. Smith, Brother
Sue Ann (Michael) Link, Sister
Cindy K. Smith, Infant Sister
Emily Bonnell, Step-Granddaughter
Chase A. Bonnell, Step-Grandson

Mr. Smith lived and farmed in rural Monterey for many years. He was a dependable neighbor and friend who was known to help anyone in need. He served many years on the Monterey Volunteer Fire Department and was a member of the Monterey American Legion and the Monterey United Methodist Church. He enjoyed deer hunting, mushroom hunting and collecting arrowheads. In 1983, he began dating Pauline Bonnell. The next year, he retired from farming. After marriage to Pauline, he began a second career as a heavy equipment operator in Arizona, later working at Vulcan Materials in Indiana. He piloted a power parachute for many years and enjoyed taking aerial photos while flying. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Visitation will be from 3 to 7 p.m., Thursday, Jan. 23, at Frain Mortuary in Winamac. The funeral service will be at 11 a.m., Friday, Jan. 24, at the funeral home. Burial will be at Winamac Cemetery (McKinley Addition) in Winamac. The American Legion and VFW will conduct military graveside services.

Memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or Monterey Volunteer Fire Department.

Online tributes may be offered at www.frainmortuary.com.

Marsha J. Henry Norris

October 15, 1963 to January 17, 2025

WINAMAC - Marsha Jo (Henry) Norris, 61, of Kettering, OH (formerly of Indianapolis) passed away unexpectedly Friday, Jan. 17, at her home.

She was born Oct. 15, 1963 in Winamac, to the late Byron Kennedy and Joan Mabel (Skillen) Henry. She was a 1982 graduate of Winamac Community High School and attended Ball State University.

Marsha Norris

She is survived by:
Ariel Norris, Paradise Valley, AZ, Daughter
Naomi Norris, Westfield, Daughter
Samara (Carter) McGill, Carmel, Daughter
Robert F. Norris III, Noblesville, Son
Clint Henry, Winamac, Brother
Carla (Frank) Shidler, Star City, Sister
Nephews and Nieces: Isaac (Carrie) Henry, Nancy (Isaac) Mitchell, Abraham (Hillari) Henry, Jeremiah Gilman, Jordan (Sarah) Gilman, Regina (Steve) Maltese, Reese (Gretchen) Shidler, and Rachelle (Graham) Conklin.
Many Great-Nieces and Nephews
Cousins: Myron (Mary) Henry, Marshall (Melanie) Henry, Raymond (Dee) Henry, Rana (Alvin) Parish, Marvin (Carol) Henry, Greg Brenda) Henry, Todd (Anjana) Henry, Debbie Fisher, Jeff (Ginny) Skillen, Ann (Tom) Lockwich, Steve Skillen, Jim (fiance Mandi Bertog) Skillen, and Robin (Dale) DeGroff.

Preceded in death by:
Henry Norris, Infant Son
Karen Kay (Henry) Gilman, Sister
Cousins: Larry Henry, Lorna Kay Henry, and Douglas Henry.

Mrs. Norris worked as a surgical tech for many years. Since she was a young girl, she adored singing and music. She loved nature and found great joy in taking trips down south with friends to see all the changing leaves. She greatly enjoyed learning new things and made several notes to “chase the fun,” amid taking up new adventures and endeavors. She was always inspired by fashion, and she enjoyed reading magazines and picking out “fabulous” outfits at her favorite clothing stores. Her laugh and smile were simply contagious. She was a shining light in the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing her. She loved her children immensely. Her journey on earth was marked by many highs and lows, but one thing always remained - her faith and steadfastness in Jesus Christ. She made frequent notes reminding herself that God was always the source of her strength and about how much He loves her. We can only begin to imagine the glories she’s walking in today and for eternity. Heaven truly changes everything, and we praise God deeply for the overwhelming joy and freedom Marsha has. We all saw glimpses on earth of this perfect creation God made here to be and we look forward to seeing this beautiful woman again in Heaven someday, in all her magnificence and spotless glory.

A celebration of life event will be from 2 to 4 p.m., Thursday, Jan. 30, at Frain Mortuary in Winamac. Private burial will be at Winamac Cemetery (Southlawn Addition) in Winamac.

Memorial donations may be made to the funeral home to assist with final expenses.

Online Tributes may be offered at www.frainmortuary.com.

Jeff Antrim

March 18, 1955 to January 16, 2025

MEDARYVILLE - Jeff Antrim, 69, of Kentland (formerly of Francesville) passed away peacefully Thursday, Jan. 16, surrounded by his family and friends at the Franciscan Health Hospital in Lafayette.

He was born March 18, 1955 in LaPorte, to the late Russell Dean and Donna Joy [Leach] Antrim. He grew up in Michigan City and Winamac. He served a short time in the U.S. Army. He married Pam Balough on June 28, 2003, at Medaryville Assembly of God Church in Medaryville. She survives.

Jeff Antrim

He is also survived by:
Michael Antrim, Bryant, AL, Son
Stormie (Miguel) Rivera, Logansport, Daughter
6 Grandchildren: Alexia, Nicholas, Kaden, Edison, Callan and Roman
Sheila Wilson, Warsaw, Sister
Kevin (Kim) Antrim, Rochester, Brother
Chris Antrim, Bass Lake, Sister-in-law
Terry (Terri) Balough, Logansport, Brother-in-law
Many Nieces and Nephews
Evelyn Thomas, Former Wife
Frances Antrim, Former Wife

Preceded in death by:
James Russell Antrim, Son
Abram Michael Rivera, Infant Grandson
Russell and Olive Leach Sr., Grandparents
Amos and Florence Antrim, Grandparents
Johnny (Mary Lou) Antrim, Brother
Russell “Rooster” Antrim, Brother

Mr. Antrim worked hard throughout his life, making many friends along the way. He always said that Pam made him a better man. They were well-known for their famous ham-and-bean supper held during the annual Francesville Fall Festival. He was an active member of River Church in Morocco. He was a helper, servant, and friend. Whether it was roasting hot dogs for a community outreach or moving tables and chairs; he was there to help. He was a vital part of Winds of Revival, Faith Harvest Food Pantry and Clothing Closet, and King’s Kids Senior Ministry. He was known for his great stories and jokes, his cool hats and shoes, and sneaking candy to the kids before or after church. He was someone you could call to help with anything. His greatest frustration in recent months was growing too weak to help others. He wasn’t afraid to give a testimony of what God had done in his life - especially how his past life was forgiven when he accepted Jesus as his Lord and Savior.

Visitation will be from 1 to 3 p.m., Saturday, March 15, at the Medaryville Assembly of God Church in Medaryville. A memorial service will follow at 3 p.m. (March 15), at the church with Pastors Tom Dewlen and Josh Cowan officiating. The Francesville American Legion will conduct military honors at the church.

Memorial donations may be made to Faith Harvest Food Pantry and Clothing Closet or to the family c/o Pam Antrim.

Online tributes may be offered at www.frainmortuary.com

Arrangements have been entrusted to Frain Mortuary Querry-Ulbricht Chapel in Medaryville.

Jeffery A. Mitchell

May 17, 1957 to January 12, 2025

WINAMAC - Jeffery A. Mitchell, 67, of Winamac passed away Sunday, Jan 12, at home.

Jeff Mitchell

Born May 17, 1957 in Logansport, he was the son of the late Raymond and Irene (Pletka) Mitchell.

Survivors include his children Jay (Ann) Huff of Macy, Joni Herring of Indianapolis, Jeffery Jr. (Tasha) Mitchell of Star City and Keith Mitchell of Rochester; brother Raymond “Jinx” (Sue) Mitchell of Kewanna; sisters Betty (George) Staller of Twelve Mile, Laura Mitchell of Winamac and Cindy (Albert) Gudas of Winamac. Also surviving are grandchildren Katelin, Cara and Alex Popejoy, Austin Handy, Taylor Bean, Dakota Huff, Milo Perry, Olivia Huff, Max Huff and Wren Mitchell; and great-grandchildren Shae Russo and Nova Bean.

Mr. Mitchell was a self-employed mechanic. He enjoyed working on things, attending the Power of the Past events and spending time with family and friends.

A celebration of life gathering will be from 2 to 4 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 18, at Rans Funeral Homes & Crematory, Winamac Chapel, 110 N. Sally Dr., Winamac.

Memorial donations may be made to Power of the Past, Inc.

Mr. Mitchell’s online guestbook is available, and condolences may be shared with the family at www.ransfuneralhomes.com.