Obituaries

William T. Jenkins

December 29, 1935 to January 12, 2024

ROYAL CENTER - William Thomas “Bill” Jenkins, 88, of Winamac passed away at 2:15 a.m., Friday, Jan. 12, at Pulaski Healthcare Center, Winamac.

He was born Dec. 29, 1935 in Winamac, to the late James and Esther (Thomas) Jenkins. He graduated Winamac High School in 1955 and served in the U.S. Army. On April 29, 1972, he married Fafalene Howard-Kolish. She survives.

Bill Jenkins

Survivors also include his children Melissa (Josh) Behny of Fishers, Susan (Jeff) Foust of Rochester, Mark (Diane) Kolish of Winamac; daughter-in-law Linda Kolish of Winamac; sister Betty (Harry) DePoy of Winamac; grandchildren Chad (Monica) Kolish of Winamac, Beth Kolish of Winamac, Ryan (Lindsey) Kolish of Winamac, Austin (Emily) Foust of Rochester, Matthew (Laura) Kolish of Winamac, Jordan (Jess Bank) Kolish of Winamac, Kaitlin Foust of South Bend, Finian Behny of Fishers and Cameron Behny of Fishers; and great-grandchildren Jackson, Sawyer, Charlotte, Cale and Ava Kolish and Zander, Rowan and Cason Foust.

He was also preceded in death by step-sons Kevin Kolish and William Kolish, brother Robert Jenkins and grandson Liam Behny.

Mr. Jenkins spent his early years hunting and fishing alongside his brother Bob. It was during those youthful adventures that he discovered his lifelong passion for fishing, a pursuit that would bring him immeasurable joy throughout the years. His life was marked by a deep love for the outdoors, unwavering friendship, and dedicated service to his community. He was the former owner and operator of Jenkin’s Service. Though the façade and purpose of the business evolved over time from his father to his grandson, the core values Bill cherished remained constant and he loved interacting with his customers. Known for his generosity and willingness to lend a helping hand, he was a true friend who could always be relied upon. He was that neighbor who'd lend you a tool or offer a friendly chat over the fence. His warm-hearted nature endeared him to many, and his willingness to assist anyone in need left an indelible mark on the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know him. Above all, Mr. Jenkins cherished his family. As we say goodbye to Bill, let's remember the guy who loved life, enjoyed nature, worked hard, shared fishing tales, and was always ready to lend a hand.

A celebration of life service will be at 11 a.m., Saturday, Jan. 27, at the Opera House in Winamac with Pastor Hagin Hiatt officiating. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service.

Memorial donations may be made to the Winamac Fire Department.

Mr. Jenkin’s online guestbook is available and condolences can be shared with the family at www.ransfuneralhomes.com.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Rans Funeral Homes, Royal Center.

Carl M. Calfee

June 30, 1949 to January 10, 2024

WINAMAC - Carl Michael Calfee, 74, of Winamac, passed away Wednesday, Jan. 10, at his home.

He was born June 30, 1949 in Oceanside, CA to Marine CPL Carl Edison and Nora Frances [Boyle] Calfee. As a young boy, his father was killed in an accident and his mother died of tuberculosis. He was adopted by his Uncle Leonard Floyd Calfee and Aunt, Loureene Enid [Kinsey] Calfee (now deceased) who raised him as their own. He married Carol Sue Heims on Nov. 6, 1976 in Winamac. She survives.

Carl Calfee

He is survived also by:
Jeremy Calfee, Kewanna, Son
Dana (Michael) Creasy, Winamac, Daughter
Nichole (Luke Fritz) Calfee, Winamac, Daughter
Grandchildren: Brianna Calfee, Ethan Calfee, Austin Creasy, Dalton Creasy, Gavin Fritz, William Fritz, and Kylie Fritz.
One great-grandchild on the way

Preceded in death by:
Jerlaine Carla Kasper, Sister
Constance Ellen Esparza, Sister
Ann Frances Calfee, Infant Sister

After graduating from Reeves High School in Adak, AK in 1968, Mr. Calfee joined the U.S. Naval Reserves and worked on crab boats in Alaska. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1968, and after completing boot camp in San Diego, , he was stationed at Naval Air Station Oceana in Virginia Beach, VA. From April-October 1971, he had the great privilege to serve aboard the USS Saratoga CV-60 during the world’s first evaluation the CV concept. In November 1971, after three years of service, he received an honorable discharge at Norfolk Naval Station in Norfolk, VA. In 1972, he moved to Winamac (what he called Mayberry). Carl and Carol enjoyed the outdoors together, including hiking, long walks and mushroom hunting. Over the years, he worked for John Williamson construction, Winamac Steel, and Torx. His main career was spent working at Galbreath for 31 years. The most important part of his life was his family, especially spending time with his grandchildren. He will be sadly missed by his family and friends.

Visitation will be from 3 to 7 p.m., Tuesday, Jan. 16, at Frain Mortuary in Winamac. The funeral service will be at 11 a.m., Wednesday, Jan. 17, at the funeral home with Pastor James Adcock officiating. Burial will be at Mt. Zion-Franklin Twp. Cemetery in Winamac. The American Legion and VFW will conduct military graveside services.

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