Obituaries
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.
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| 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.
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| 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 (Sharmane) 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.
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| 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.
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| 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.
Peggy J. Griffin
February 21, 1956 to January 10, 2025
WINAMAC - Peggy J. Griffin, 68, of Winamac (formerly of LaPorte) passed away peacefully Friday, Jan. 10, at Northwest Health Hospital in LaPorte.
She was born Feb. 21, 1956 in LaPorte to Eugene H. and Elizabeth H. [Vance] Euler. She married Howard Griffin on Oct. 23, 1981, in LaPorte. He passed away Oct. 21, 2009.
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| Peggy Griffin |
She is survived by:
Cash W. (Krystyn) Jordon, Elwood, Son
Rachel J. (Otto) Ritter IV, Winamac, Daughter
Savannah Ritter, Granddaughter
Dakota Ritter, Granddaughter
Grace Ritter, Granddaughter
Holly Ritter, Granddaughter
John (Jacqi) Euler, Brother
Claudia (Rob) Simpson, Sister
Melody Mills, Sister
Lisa (Mark) Hinz, Sister
Buddy Beck, Brother
Diane Beck, Sister
Verna (Bobby) Raymond, Special Niece
Numerous Nieces and Nephews
Preceded in death by:
Eugene (June) Euler, Father
Elizabeth (Zack) Wiley, Mother
Lynn Euler, Brother
Della Thompson, Sister
Mrs. Griffin enjoyed spending time with her family and friends, especially get-togethers with the “ya-ya girls.” She will be sadly missed.
No services will be held at this time.
Online tributes may be offered at www.frainmortuary.com.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Frain Mortuary, Winamac.
William M. Stinemetz
November 28, 1963 to January 9, 2025
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| Mike Stinemetz |
WINAMAC - William Michael “Mike” Stinemetz, 61, passed away Thursday, Jan. 9, following a short battle with lung cancer.
He was born Nov. 28, 1963 in Winamac. He graduated from Winamac Community High School.
He is survived by family and friends who loved him and will miss him.
Mr. Stinemetz enjoyed fishing, playing guitar, cooking and gardening.
Private burial will take place at Riverside Cemetery in Monterey.
In lieu of flowers, please consider planting a tree in memory of Mike; information at www.frainmortuary.com.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Frain Mortuary in Winamac.
Bob Fritz
November 28, 1939 to January 8, 2025
WINAMAC - Bob Fritz, 85, of Pulaski (formerly of East Chicago), passed away Wednesday, Jan. 8, at Franciscan Health Hospital in Lafayette.
He was born Nov. 28, 1939 in East Chicago to the late Joseph and Adeline [Juras] Fritz. After graduating from Roosevelt High School, he attended barbers school. He married his high school sweetheart Carrie Fairse on Dec. 23, 1961. She survives.
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| Bob Fritz |
He is also survived by:
Denise Fritz, Daughter
Rochelle (Edward) Grenner, Daughter
Jason (Tamera) Fritz, Son
Eric (Renee) Fritz, Son
6 Grandchildren: Angela, Jack, Drew, Ethan, Bayleigh and Jayden.
3 Great-Grandchildren
3 Nephews (and their families)
Preceded in death by:
Joie Grenner, Granddaughter
Joan R. (Benny) Klekot, Sister
Mr. Fritz owned and operated his own barber shop in Chicago for a few years before serving in the U.S. Army. He was a lifetime member of the American Legion. He retired as a millwright from Inland Steel and was a proud member of the United Steelworks Local #1010. In high school, he was a “sports stud,” and as such, was a natural pick for hall monitor. While on duty one day, his eyes met with Carrie’s, and a love story was born - a legacy of love that spanned 63 years. They raised their children in Calumet City, IL. They worked hard their entire lives and enjoyed their retirement years living on the Tippecanoe River. The couple cherished many friendships made at Bethel Bible Church where they were faithful members. He was an avid golfer and bowler. He was a dedicated member of Chesapeake Golf Course, spending five days a week on the links. Years ago, Bob went out of his way to establish and run a bowling league for special needs kids. He enjoyed fishing far and wide, from the woods of Northern Michigan to the Mississippi River in Wisconsin. He was a loving and devoted husband, dad, grandpa and great-grandpa who will be dearly missed.
Private services will be held.
Memorial donations may be made to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.
Online tributes may be offered at www.frainmortuary.com.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Frain Mortuary in Winamac.
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