In Memoriam – Summer 2022

Helen Creigh Ellenwood, class of 1941, died December 24, 3031 in Fort Wayne with Helen her sons by her side.  After graduation she married Melvin Ervin and they were married for 61 years prior to his death in 2003.  Helen’s mission in life was to bring joy to all whom she met and, through contributions to countless charities, to many she never knew.  She is survived by her sons, Richard, Mark, Steven, Gary, and Thomas; 11 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren.

Lois Ann Gumpper, class of 1941, died January 15, 2022 at the age of 98.  Lois graduated from the Miami University in Ohio, majoring in Dietetics.  She received a Masters Degree in Public Health from the University of Michigan at the age of 40.  She worked as a dietitian at Wittenberg University, Parkview Hospital, yet spent the majority of her career with the Indiana State Board of Health.  Lois was also an active volunteer in various organizations. 

Dorothy Kline Meyer, class of 1941, died March 31, 2022 at her home surrounded by her family.  Dorothy was an active member of Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Fort Wayne and was an avid reader and enjoyed puzzles of all types.  Surviving are her children, Patricia Samra, Diana Beery, and Michael Meyer, four grandchildren, six great-grandchildren; and two great-great-granddaughters.

Harvey G. Cocks, Jr., class of 1943, died March 31, 2022 with his children by his side. He was Fort Wayne’s greatest showman, playwright, theatre historian, Tony Award nominee, and past executive/artistic director of the Fort Wayne Youththeatre. Harvey spent his childhood moving about the country with his father who was a promoter for Paramount Pictures before landing in Fort Wayne.  After high school he headed to New York City and booked his first Broadway show within days of his arrival.  Harvey returned to Fort Wayne in 1967 to manage Quimby Village with his father.  He was active as an actor and director at the Civic Theatre, Arena Dinner Theatre, First Presbyterian Theater, and the PIFW Theatre.  He is survived by his children, Ann Cocks and Christopher Cox and many nieces and nephews.

Eula Teel Hamilton, class of 1943 died March 1, 2022 at Heritage of Fort Wayne.  Eula worked in employment services for 33 years as an interviewer and placer for the State of Indiana.  She enjoyed many different hobbies including sewing and singing.  She is survived by her daughter, Carol Perkins, a granddaughter and great-grandson.

Miriam Abbott Harriss, class of 1943, died March 2, 2022 at Brookdale Nursing Home.  Miriam retired from Lincoln Life Insurance Company.  She married Carl Harriss in October 1951 who passed away just shy of 48 years of marriage.  Hobbies included singing, dancing and watching movies.  Surviving are her son, Thomas; daughters, Carol Garcia and Carla Moring; seven grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren.

Erwin M. Brand, class of 1944, died February 5, 2022.  A devoted member of Zion Lutheran Church, he proudly served his country in the Army and retired from GE after more than 40 years of service as a machinist.  Erwin is survived by his niece, Maxine Brand SS’69.

Donald E. Weberus, class of 1944, died February 24, 2022 in Fort Wayne.  Don was awarded a griffin Scholarship to Yale, earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Administration.  He worked in service engineering with Pullman Standard and retired after 32 years of service.  Don was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Hammond, IN where he sang in church choirs and an oratorio chorus.  He also enjoyed activities with church related singles groups, reading, traveling and attending concerts. He is survived by his cousin, Dr. Paul Mutschlecner SS’48.

Lewis R. Allendorph, class of 1945, died March 11, 2022.  Lew served in the U.S. Navy and earned two degrees from Purdue University.  He worked as a mechanical engineer at GE, and then took a job as chief engineer at Hubbard Spool Company. Lew retired in 1992 as the Assistant Dean of the School of Engineering and Technology at Purdue University, Fort Wayne.  He is survived by his wife of almost 73 years, Anna Lee; daughter Sharon Roberts; Son L. David Allendorph; and one grandson.

Robert W. Gehring, class of 1945, died February 10, 2022.  Bob honorably served his country in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean Conflict.  He married Jeanne Cassidy in 1989 and she preceded him in death in October 2018.  Bob worked as a supervisor and then the director of inorganic research and engineering for Phelps Dodge for 35 years.  He also taught computer classes for several years at IPFW. Bob was a 32nd degree Mason with the Southgate Masonic Lodge in Fort Wayne.  Survivors include daughters, Judy Young, Lynda Rose, and Kathy Jenkins; sons, William and Dan, nine grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

Phyllis Gray Doty, class of 1946, died March 15, 2022 in Fort Wayne.  Following high school, she worked at International Harvester.  While her children were in school, she worked in the cafeteria at Village Woods Elementary.  Phyllis enjoyed offering free samples to customers at area grocery stores and later loved being a volunteer delivering flowers at Parkview Hospital on Randallia Drive.  Phyllis and her husband, Robert, took many enjoyable road trips throughout the country.  In her final years, she loved swimming with friends at the South Side Natatorium. She is survived by her daughter, Jan Reche; son, Jeffrey Doty; three grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.

Edith K. Guttmacher, class of 1947, died February 27, 2022.  Edith owned a clothing boutique, was a Realtor, and while in Denver, CO, an interior designer.  Edith was devoted to her family and loved being outdoors, tending to her garden and flowers.  Surviving are her children, Cathy Hemsoth and Douglas Haines; three grandchildren; and one great-great-grandson.

Barbara Krewson Jacobs, class of 1947, died January 29, 2022.  Shortly after graduation, she went to work for American Hoist where she met her future husband, Fay.  They were married at Trinity English Lutheran Church where she remained a member until her death.  In later years, she worked for Mayflower Moving Company and then retired from Stearns Moving and Storage.  Barb enjoyed spending time at Adams Lake, traveling to see family, and attending church functions.  She was a member of the Dorcas Circle at TELC and was the group’s photographer.  She put her knitting skills to good use making many prayer shawls for her church. Barb is survived by her son, Phillip; daughter, LeAnn Childress; two granddaughters; two grandsons; and three great-granddaughters.

Keith “Casey” Clauser, class of 1948, died December 3, 2021 in Brighton, MI.  He married Mary Kathleen Boyd in April 1952 and she preceded him in death in September 2017.  Casey received his bachelor’s degree from Wabash College in 1955.  He was a veteran of the U.S. Air Force serving honorably in the Korean Conflict.  He retired from General Motors and Fort Motor Company.  He will be missed by his two sons, Steven and Scott; three grandchildren; six great-grandchildren and three brothers, Neal SS’50, Jim SS’57, and Ken SS’64.

Betty Mitzner Lipp, class of 1949, died April 2, 2022 at Oakwood Village in Madison, WI.  Betty worked for several years at Lincoln Life.  She and her late husband, Donald, lived in Fort Wayne for 18 years where they raised two sons.  They then lived in Madison, WI and St. Clairsville, OH. Betty moved back to Wisconsin after Don’s passing to be near her sons, John and Kevin.  She is also survived by a grandson; two granddaughters; and two great-grandchildren.

Marlene Carnall Umber, class of 1949, died April 25, 2022 in Fort Wayne.  Marlene worked as a Supervisor of Savings Inquiry for Fort Wayne National Bank.  She was a member of Calvary United Methodist Church and enjoyed playing musical instruments.  Marlene was active in the Boy Scouts with her husband and enjoyed spending time with her family.  Surviving family include her husband of 72 years, Ervin; sons, Kerry and Ron Umber; four grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Betty Foreman Stroup, class of 1950, died March 17, 2022 at Markle (IN) Health and Rehabilitation Center.  Following graduation, Betty was a homemaker and attended Bluffton Wesleyan Chapel.  She is survived by her children, Cindy Brown, John, Joe, Jim, Jeff, and Dan Stroup; 16 grandchildren; and 27 great-grandchildren.

Gene A. Towns, class of 1951, died May 2, 2022 at Lutheran Hospital in Fort Wayne.  Gene proudly served his country and was a Korean War Army veteran.  He continued to serve the Fort Wayne community as a police officer for 20 years and retired in 1974.  He then worked as a Special Investigator for five years and continued to serve and was the Head of Lutheran Hospital Safety and Security for 12 years.  Gene was a member of Life Community Church and the Fraternal Order of Police.  Gene’s wife of 40 years, Jackie, continues to live at their Markle home.  Daughters, Kristine Kingsley and Cynthia Limburg; eight grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren; and sister, Patricia Towns Kocks SS’42, also survive.

Donna Jean Roebel Darby, class of 1952, died February 28, 2022 in Palm Desert, CA surrounded by her daughters and husband.  After graduating Magna Cum Laude from Michigan State University, she earned a Master’s Degree from IU in 1957 when she married her husband, Keith.  After teaching English at Smart Junior and High and South Side High School, she and Keith moved to Chattanooga, TN where she continued to teach. In 1962, they returned to Fort Wayne and welcomed their two daughters, Diana Nevins and Ellen Weaver.  In addition to teaching, Donna Jean founded Historic River Cruises of Fort Wayne to help increase tourism in the area. She launched Contacts, Inc. and worked with major corporations to promote executive relation to Fort Wayne until moving to Salisbury, MD in 1985.  Donna Jean continued her philanthropic work after moving to California working with many organizations and received honors for her endeavors. Donna Jean is also survived by two grandchildren.

Roy Kern, class of 1952, died March 20, 2022 in his Englewood, FL home. Roy earned a degree in business administration from IU and then served in the U.S. Army in Fort Knox, KY and then finishing his service in the Army Reserves.  He and his wife, Julia, returned to Fort Wayne where Roy worked with Lincoln National Bank in Fort Wayne for 23 years.  He also worked as a trust vice president with the First Bank of Whiting, IN and the First Bank of Warsaw, IN. In 1989 Roy became an investment adviser with Edward Jones Investments in Englewood, FL. Roy was an active member in the Englewood United Methodist Church.  Rotary, Meals on Wheels, FISH, the Lions Club and other community service organizations also benefited from Roy’s participation.  Roy is survived by his wife of more than 63 years, Julia Easterday Kern SS’55; children Jefferey, Jonathan, and Jennifer Kern; seven grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

Marian Curry Klinger, class of 1953, died March 24, 2022.  Marian retired from GE after more than 27 years of service in the aircraft assembly division.  She was a proud member of the DAR, the GE Elex Club, and the GE Quarter Century Club.  She is survived by her husband, Delphus; daughters, Lois Bullard and Kathryn McDaniel; sons Alfred, Steven and Patrick McDaniel; five grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; one great-great-granddaughter; her brother, Hal Curry SS’50 and sister, Melinda Peppler.

Virginia Fleck Rodenbeck, class of 1953, died May 9, 2022 at Parkview Hospital.  She was an active member of First Baptist Church of New Haven, IN and was a previous member of New Haven Missionary Church where she taught Sunday school, was a church board member, and started the Awana program.  Virginia is survived by her children, Mark Rodenbeck and Robin Heck; four grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and her sister, Jane Fleck Leonard SS’55.

Richard C. Solaro, class of 1953, died December 14, 2021.  Richard received a B.S. degree in business and a Doctor of Jurisprudence degree from IU.  He served in the U.S. Army from 1957-59, achieving the rank of first lieutenant.  From 1960-1985, he was a vice-president in the trust banking areas of the major Indianapolis banks.  He also practiced law from 1980-1983 and was elected to the Carmel City Council in 1983.  Richard returned to Fort Wayne in 1985 where became manager of the Summit Bank Trust and Investment Department until 1997.  He served as a director for many area organizations such as Boys and Girls Club, and Embassy Foundation. Surviving Richard is his wife, Josetta; daughter, Jeanine Smith; daughter-in-law, Amy Solaro; stepsons, Christopher and Craig Sanford; stepdaughters, Karen Dobbins and Twyla Berrigan; 11 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Dale O. Ferrier, class of 1954, died May 15, 2022.  Dale met his wife, Jane, at Youth for Christ in Fort Wayne and married June 14, 1958.  Dale was a devoted husband and father and enjoyed time with his family.  Dale was a graduate of Fort Wayne Bible College, had a Master’s degree from IU and a PhD from Walden University.  Dale was the past president and owner of Indiana Wire Die and Precision Laser Services. He was a Master Trainer for the Dale Carnegie organization and a member of the National Speakers Association.  In addition, Dale served on the board of many community organizations, and was a member of Pine Hills Church.  He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Jane; three children, Jeff and Ed Ferrier and Ruth Lichtenberger; five grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

Marsha Walb Heller, class of 1954, died December 24, 2021 at Parkview Hospice surrounded by her family.  Marsha graduated from the University of Colorado majoring in Education.  While working in Denver, she earned a Master’s in Psychology.  Later in her career, while successfully launching three children from high school to Purdue University, she earned an Associate’s Degree in Nursing from IPFW.  Marsha was an active member of First Presbyterian Church where she held numerous leadership positions and was honored in 2018 for her leadership and service to the church.  She established a scholarship at IPFW for students in the School of Music.  Marsha enjoyed being with family but especially on sunset cruises on Oliver Lake.  She enjoyed English Setters so much that she raised or rescued seven of them throughout her life.  Marsha is survived by her three children, Cheri West, David and Rich Heller; and four grandchildren.

Carol Adams Packard, class of 1955, died January 27, 2022 at Parkview Hospital.  Carol was the Regional Property Manager for Gene Glick Management Company for 20 years.  She is survived by her sons, Michael and Matthew Kurtz; six grandchildren; and one great-granddaughter.

Ronald W. Schmidt, class of 1955, died April 15, 2022.  Ron was an active member of St. John Lutheran Church-Flatrock.  Surviving is his wife of 63 years, Leona; daughters, Sandra Schmidt; Suzanne Cross, and Shirley Sorg; and seven grandchildren.

Winchester “Win” Rood, class of 1956, died March 8, 2022.  Win also graduated from Earlham College and served in the Army Reserves.  He retired as the Executive Vice President of the Fort Wayne Medical Society in 2017 after 25 years.  He also worked in banking for 30 years.  Win was an active member of many community organizations. After serving as the Supervisor of Off Ice Official for the Fort Wayne Komets for many years, he was inducted into the Komets Hall of Fame.  Win and his wife, Sarah, were long-time foster parents.  He is survived by Sara; daughter, Jill Noyes; granddaughter, Adeline; and brother, Doug Rood.

Martha Richter Day, class of 1957, died April 25, 2022 in Twin Falls, ID where she resided for several years.  Martha met her husband, David, while attending Brigham Young University.  Martha and her family resided in California.  She shared her talents throughout her life playing the piano, serving as church organist, and singing with the Dulcetones.  Martha is survived by her children, Deanna Ashby, Darlene Chambers, Denis Kersey, and Nathan Day; 16 grandchildren; four great-grandchildren and sister, Elizabeth Richter SS’64.

Frances “Jackie” Hawk Long, class of 1959, died January 29, 2022 at her home in Warsaw, IN.  Jackie was the former business owner of LeGourmet Chocolate Shoppe in Warsaw.  She was a former pre-school teacher of Crescent Avenue Methodist Church.  She was a choir member of First Presbyterian Church Fort Wayne for 20 years. Jackie enjoyed hosting tea parties in her Victorian home over the years.  Surviving Jackie is her husband of 62 years, Jerry; daughter, Julia Chapman; three grandchildren; and siblings Electra Jane Hawk SS ‘56 and JoAnn Hawk Espich SS’57.

James R Speck, class of 1960, died April 12, 2022 at his home.  James was a U.S. Air Force veteran and served from 1960 to 1964.  He retired from Zollner Piston after 38 years.  An avid NASCAR fan, James was finally able to purchase his lifelong dream of a Ford 1923 T bucket.  He is survived by his children, Jami Lay; Jodi Speck-McIntosh, and James Speck II; son-in-law Mike Miller; 11 grandchildren and fourteen great-grandchildren.

Ross A. Binkley, class of 1961, died March 11, 2022 at his home on Tri-Lakes with family by his side.  After attending South Side, Ross graduated from Great Barrington Prep School in Massachusetts.  He worked for 32 years at Slater Stee in Fort Wayne.  After retirement, Ross and his wife moved to their lake home.  As a member of Plymouth Congregational Church, he served as a deacon, usher, and on the board of deacons.  Ross is survived by his wife, Beth, son Todd; daughters, Terri Clampitt and Tricia Smith; and four grandchildren.

Michael A. Dooley, class of 1961; died December 9, 2021.  Michael worked at Smith’s Barbershop for ten years before opening his own shop, Tower Barbershop.  He enjoyed traveling, going on a number of cruises.  Surviving family members include his wife of 62 years, Sharon; daughters Stacy VanHorn and Moll6y Brateman; five grandchildren; and a great-grandson.

Jerome A. Moring, class of 1961, died February 25, 2022.  Jerry loved to work out, participate in sports, and being outdoors on the lake boating.  He retired after 25 years of service from the Fort Wayne Fire Department.  He is survived by his son, Dean; three grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and siblings, James SS’58, Ron SS’61 and Mary Peltier SS’58.

Connie Belschner Kennerk, class of 1962, died January 18, 2022 at Parkview Hospital in Auburn.  She married John Kennerk on September 15, 1962 and he survives her.  Other family remaining are daughters, Annette White, Paula Kerns, Susan Kohler, Wendy Kennerk, Nancy Hill and Kathryn Maurer; sons, John and Steven; 26 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren.

Robert W. King, Jr, class of 1962, died April 19, 2022 at Lutheran Hospital.  Robert was a U.S. Air Force veteran and worked in quality control at Lockheed Martin Corp.  Surviving him are his wife, Melody; son Christopher; and sister, Carolyn King Botts SS ’60.

Margie Grieser Gaffney Ruble, class of 1962, died with her husband, Mark, February 17, 2022 in a motorcycle accident in Ocala, FL.  They were married for 25 years and were doing what they loved.  Margie worked mostly in advertising while living in Fort Wayne.  She moved to Ocala, FL in 1992 to be with Mark.  Margie is survived by her children, Michael Tomson, Jennifer Bowers, Wendi Cole, and Fritz Rommel; 11 grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren; and her sister, Vonda GrieserGipson SS’68.

Richard R. Vaughan, class of 1962, died January 16, 2022 in Hawkinsville, GA.  Richard graduated from Purdue Univ and worked at GTE in Fort Wayne, Tampa, FL, and Westfield IN.  He enjoyed camping, hunting, fishing and many sports.  Surviving are children, Jodi Monroe and James Vaughan; grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Robert L. Butler, class of 1963, died April 18, 2022 at Adams Heritage in Monroeville.  He was united in marriage 51 years ago to Carolyn Meyer.  In addition to Carolyn, he is survived by his sons Theron, and Anthony; daughter, Carmen MacPherson; and four grandchildren.

Carol Forsgren Springer, class of 1963, died April 30, 2022 surrounded by her children.  Carol was an English major at Purdue Univ. and loved correcting her children’s spelling and grammar.  She had many crafting hobbies and had a passion for genealogy.  She worked for many years as a secretary at IBM and was a member of Trinity English Lutheran Church.  Carol is survived by her two daughters, Julie Springer and Shelley Roberts; son, Michael Springer and granddaughter Caroline Springer. 

Karen Stookey Wrigley, class of 1963, died April 27, 2022.  She worked for North American Van Lines for many years before being employed at IPFW.  Karen is survived by her sons, Patrick and Michael; and two grandchildren.

Donna Waikel Lefevra, class of 1964, died March 24, 2022 at Parkview Hospital.  She worked at F & B Dry Cleaners for 20 years and later worked at ChromaSource in Columbia City.  Bingo was her favorite hobby besides spending time with her children and grandchildren.  She is survived by her children, Michelle Gaff, Amy Collins and Scott Goodwin; and ten grandchildren.

Kay Bradley Smith, class of 1963, died December 1, 2021. After graduation, Kay moved to Washington D.C. before settling down and raising her family with her husband, Walt, in Reston, VA.  Kay served many years in the banking industry working her way up to Assistant Vice President.  Walt survives her as well as her two daughters, Courtney Donner and Katelyn Campbell; six grandsons; and three younger sisters including, Vicki Bradley Keller SS ’64.

Susan KingermanTurnpaugh, class of 1964, died April 1, 2022.She worked in Material Management at Lutheran Hospital for 42 years, retiring in 2019. She was a volunteer at the Rescue Mission and an active member of Bethlehem Lutheran Church, working in the small group ministry, the Women of Bethlehem Group, and helping with church funeral meals. She is survived by her daughter, Melissa Turnpaugh; granddaughters, and Kylee and Karlie Turnpaugh.

Terry L. Bodine, class of 1965, died January 15, 2022 in Indianapolis where he had lived for two years.  Terry received a B.S. in Business from IU and worked at Lincoln National Life Insurance.  Then he continued as systems analyst for 30 years at Rea Magnet Wire.  Terry was an avid bowler and golfer and bowled throughout the country in 25 ABC National Bowling Tournaments and was inducted in the Fort Wayne Bowling Association Hall of Fame.  He was active as a board member in area organizations.  He is survived by his wife, Joyce, children Trent and Kendra; and three grandchildren.

Jane Beach Mann, class of 1965, died January 28, 2022.  Jane attended South Side but graduated from Elmhurst High School.  She loved singing, birds, gardening and her family and friends.  Jane is survived by two sons, Jason and Justin; seven grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.

Lee A. Goldman, class of 1965, died May 23, 2022 at his home in Modena, NY.  Lee is survived by his daughter, Megan PeSprigg, Tiffany Goldman; two grandchildren; and his siter, Lynne Goldman Hungerford SS ‘60.

Gary M. Hullinger, class of 1965, died May 9, 2022 at home.  Gary served in the U.S. Marine Corp. and was a retired truck driver.  Gary is survived by his wife, Judy; daughter, Gail Hullinger; son, Dan Hullinger; four grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and his sister, Deborah HullingerRoehm SS ‘73.

Susan Meyers-Maniates, class of 1965, died January 4, 2022 in Lisle, IL.

Rebecca Lee Snaufer Purdy, class of 1965, died March 11, 2022. She received her associates degree in art from Ball State University. Becky retired from Regions Bank in Fishers following over 25 years of service.In her retirement, she loved working with her son and his family running a food vending business, Purdylicious. Survivors include her husband, Wayne A. Purdy, whom she married on Oct. 23, 1971, in Fort Wayne; three children, Renee Purdy, Holly (Robert) Purdy-McMillan, and Jeff (Kerri) Purdy; and four grandchildren.

Kathleen Oxley Wiggins, class of 1965, died April 7, 2022, in Yucca Valley, CA.  She joined the Marine Corps at the age of 18 and moved to California after her basic training.  She and Dan met in 1966 at El Toro Marine Corps base where they were both working. They were then stationed in Japan for two years.  She worked for three decades at Rockwell International’s microchip lab in Newport Beach, CA and studied nursing at Santa Ana College and the University of California Irvine. 

Robert W. Isenhour, class of 1966, died May 4, 2022 in Muncie, IN. He retired from Zollner Pistons in 2003 after more than 31 years of service as an Industrial Engineer.  He is survived by his wife of over 49 years, Dail; daughters, Christine Benjamin and Amanda Billion; and seven grandchildren.

Stanley D. Pfeiffer, class of 1966, died February 12, 2022.  While at South Side, Stan was an All-State wrestler. He was a true loving family man who loved jokes and riddles, even writing a book called “Stan’s World” full of his puzzles in life. He is survived by his sons, Stan II and Scott; five grandchildren; and sister, Linda Pfeiffer Gates SS ’65.

Janet Markey Vangets, class of 1967, died April 15, 2022 in Muncie, IN.  Jan received a B.S. degree from Ball State.  Jan started her career in healthcare working as a manager in private medical practices and retired from her position as Chief Operating Officer for Primary Care Physicians Network in Muncie in 2014.  Jan loved reading, scrapbooking, and traveling.  Surviving Jan is her husband, Dana, children, Amy Smith and Todd Vangets, five grandchildren; and sister, Laurie Markey Hahn SS ’71.

Bruce M. Johnson, class of 1968, died January 3, 2022 at his home in Ashburn, VA.  Bruce taught Latin before retiring in 2003 following a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis.  Survivors include his wife, Bobbie; and brother, Douglas SS ’69.

Larry C. McDonald, class of 1968, died March 2, 2022 at his home.  Larry loved sports and enjoyed many rounds of golf.  He was also an accomplished pianist.  Larry eared a business degree from IPFW and worked for Phelps Dodge Sales Company for 37 years, retiring as VP of sales.  He also served his country in the Army Reserves.  Larry is survived by his brothers, Stephen SS ‘62 and John, sisters, Janet McDonald Eggiman SS ‘67; and Joann McDonald.

Gail Lochner Ernst, class of 1969, died January 8, 2022.  She received a degree in Education and taught P.E. and math at FWCS.  She was an active member of her church and loved to travel with her family.  She is survived by her husband of 40 years, Barry; daughters, Sarah Strine and Lisa Johnson; three grandchildren and sister, Rev. Rita Jay Lochner Scruton-Wilson.

Robert L. Meyers, class of 1969, died March 14, 2022 at his home.  He worked for Now Courier for 20 years.  Robert enjoyed listening to music, collecting records, watching sports, camping, and was an avid bowler for 20 years. He is survived by his son, Zach and brother, Wayne Meyers SS ’68.

Jeff Meyers, class of 1969, died in Zanesville, OH.

William “Andy” Snaufer, class of 1969, died September 11, 2019.  He was a founding member of the Hoosier Blue Dots and retired from Dana Corp. in 2008.  He enjoyed outdoor activities and many will remember his legendary Hoosier Blue Dot Hog Roasts and the annual burning of the snowmobile.  Andy is survived by his daughter, Dawn Pasche; son, Scott Snaufer; eight grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.

Vesta Lee Ware, class of 1969, died February 1, 2022.Vesta was united in marriage to Mark Ware on September 27, 1969. They were married for 44 years. He preceded her in death in January of 2014. Vesta attended Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church for over 15 years. She enjoyed crafting, sewing, canning and quilting. Vesta also enjoyed bowling and spending time with her family. Survivors include a daughter, Vesta Kirkman; son, Mark Ware II; daughter, Tara Shearer; 9 grandchildren; and 7 great-grandchildren.

John Krill, class of 1971, died April 13, 2022 in Fort Wayne.

Gary T. Kendrick, class of 1972, died April 20, 2022 at his Fort Wayne home.  Gary had a long career as an ironworker with the Local 147.  He is survived by his wife of 39 years, Kristie; children, Tiffany Hill and Josh Kendrick; and four grandchildren.

Reginald D. Burt, class of 1973, died December 27, 2021 in Houston, TX. Reggie was a basketball All-American in high school who went on to play at Cal State Fullerton.  Reggie later moved to Houston, TX where he met and married Karen Dunbar.  They went to grad school at Houston Baptist University and explored the world together.  In the early 80’s Reggie and a partner started an educational software development company called Bainum Dunbar.  He went on to become an internal auditor in the oil and gas industry.  Reggie is survived by his wife of 40 years, Karen; daughters, Jami and Kari Burt; grandson, Julian Burt; brothers and sisters, Sharon Burt SS ’78, Gregory Burt SS ’80, Anthony Burt, Dean Whatt, Terry Burt, Gary Burt SS ’81 and John Burt, Jr.

Bobby B. Greene, class of 1973, died January 26, 2022.  Bobby entered the U.S. Army upon graduation where he discovered a love for adventure.  He became a Paratrooper with the 101st Airborne Division and also trained as a weapons specialist.  After returning home from the military, he married Connie Mollison SS ‘75.  He later attended Ivy Tech to earn an associate degree in small business operations and industrial management technology.  He was employed with FWCS and GM. After retirement he volunteered his time at the Shepherd’s House and the Veteran Administration Chapel. He leaves to cherish his memory, his wife of nearly 45 years, Connie; children Kytela Perry and Bobby L. Greene; four grandchildren.

Cheryl Barnes Jackson, class of 1975, died February 3, 2022.

Vicki Curtis Knipstein, class of 1976, died April 17, 2022.

Kevin R. Henschen, class of 1978, died February 23, 2022.

Sandra O’Shaughnessy, class of 1981, died January 22.

Brian A. Gamble, class of 1980, died March 26, 2022 in Fort Wayne.

Juergen E. Mauger, class of 1982, died May 15, 2022 at his home in Huntington.  Juergen was a chicken farmer and also worked for Alfe Heath Treating, Inc, Isolatek International and GM.  He enjoyed fishing, painting vehicles, the Pittsburgh Steelers, and listening to Hank Williams, Jr. and Waylon Jennings music.  Survivors include his wife, Sharon, children, Christopher, Jeremiah, Heidi and Justin; and three grandchildren.

Toni A. King, class of 1983, died December 9, 2021.

Rodney L. Rite, class of 1994, died December 13, 2021.