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Hite Funeral Home, 403 S Main Street, Kendallville, IN (2026)

04/22/2026

Boneka Hoover, age 81, of Kendallville, Indiana, passed away at home on April 19, 2026. She was born on June 25, 1944, in Garrett, Kentucky, and lived a life marked by creativity, kindness, and a deep love for the things and people that brought her joy.

Ms. Hoover was the daughter of the late Mody and Arky (Combs) Hoover. She carried with her the values of hard work, warmth, and quiet strength throughout her life. Those who knew her remember her as a loving and creative woman whose gentle spirit left a lasting impression on family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Boneka made her career as a respiratory therapist and served the Kendallville community with dedication and compassion. She was employed with McCray Hospital and later with Parkview Noble Hospital before retiring in 2010. Her work reflected her caring nature and her commitment to helping others, and she was respected by those alongside whom she worked. Through her years in healthcare, she touched many lives with her steady presence and her thoughtful concern for the well-being of others.

Beyond her professional life, Boneka was an incredibly talented artist. She found great happiness in painting and expressed herself through her art in ways that reflected her imagination and sensitivity. Her creativity was one of her most defining gifts, and she took pride in sharing that gift with others. She was also a musician who loved playing her guitar, and she especially enjoyed Bluegrass music. The sounds and rhythms she loved were a meaningful part of her life and brought her much enjoyment over the years.

Boneka also had a deep appreciation for the beauty of everyday life. She enjoyed gardening and took pleasure in surrounding herself with the things she loved. She had a special fondness for decorating for the holidays, and she found joy in making her home feel warm and inviting throughout the year. Her interests reflected her personality, which was both thoughtful and expressive, and they brought comfort and happiness to those around her. She also loved thrift store shopping and was always on the hunt for the best deals.

She was also a devoted University of Kentucky fan, and her loyalty to her team was well known. Whether following a game or sharing in the excitement of a season, she enjoyed being part of that tradition. Her passions, from music and art to sports and home life, were all part of the vibrant and meaningful life she lived.

A life so beautifully lived deserves to be remembered with gratitude and affection. Boneka Hoover’s presence will be deeply missed, but the love she gave, the art she created, and the music she enjoyed will remain part of the hearts of those who carry her memory forward.

Survivors include:
Son, Don "Tiger" Hoover and his wife, Bobbie Hoover of Kendallville.
Daughter, Tracey Owens Hoover of Hippo, Kentucky.
Son, Clinton "Wes" Hoover and Diane Cramer of Kendallville.
Five grandchildren including Anthony (Victoria) Hoover of Kendallville; Casey Owens of Hippo, Kentucky; Austin Hoover of Kendallville; Kyle (Mikayla) Gibson of Montgomery, Michigan; and Thomas (Brittany) Strine of Clayton, Michigan.
Seven great grandchildren also survive.
Sister, Bonita and Rayful Griffith of Cromwell, Indiana.
Sister, Glemma and Brooks Gifford of Portage, Indiana.
Brother, T.J. Hoover of Garrett, Kentucky.
Sister, Rozetta Collinson of Jacksonville, Florida.

Boneka was preceded in death by her parents, Mody and Arky Hoover; her companion of 27 years, Bill Payton, who died in 2013; and three brothers, David Hoover, Edward Hoover, and Toby Hoover.

Boneka will be laid to rest at Orange Cemetery near Rome City at a later date.

04/21/2026

James Collins, age 78, of rural Kendallville, passed away Tuesday, April 21, 2026, at his home. James was born in West Liberty, Kentucky, on February 26, 1948, to Rodolph and Fannie (Hicks) Collins. He honorably served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. He married Joyce Ann (Frazier) Handshoe Collins on January 23, 2016. James was a press operator for Cooper Standard Products for 18 years before retiring in 1996. After retirement, he drove an es**rt vehicle for wide loads all over the country. James was a faithful member of Mt. Calvary United Baptist Church in Stroh.

Survivors include:
Wife, Joyce Collins of Kendallville.
Daughter, Ann and Roger Wilds of Lawrenceville, Kentucky.
Son, Jamie Collins of Kendallville.
Daughter, Norma and Mike Jackson of Alabama.
10 grandchildren and 17 great grandchildren
Stepson, Scott Handshoe of Dorton, Kentucky.
2 step grandchildren and 3 step greatgrandchildren.
Brother, Rev. Willie and Jenny Collins of Waterloo.
Brother, Jerry Collins of Fort Wayne.
Stepbrother, Denzil Ray Hyler of Michigan.
Stepsister, Sally Jo Squires of Michigan.

James was preceded in death by his parents, Rodolph and Fannie Collins; three brothers, Raymond Collins, Kern Collins, and Robert Collins; sister, Annie Belcher; half-brother, Junior Hicks; and stepson, Randy "Bo" Handshoe.

Visitation will be held Thursday, April 23, 2026, from 3:00 - 7:00 PM at Hite Funeral Home in Kendallville.
Funeral services will be held Friday, April 24, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Mt. Calvary United Baptist Church in Stroh with Rev. Willie Collins officiating.
Burial with military honors will follow at Woodruff Cemetery in LaGrange County.

04/21/2026

Richard Munson "Rich" Anderson, age 81, of Kendallville and long-time East Noble High School educator and administrator, passed away April 18, 2026, at Parkview Regional Medical Center in Fort Wayne.

Mr. Anderson was born in Fort Wayne, Indiana, on January 23, 1945, to the late Everett Munson Anderson and Theressa Viola (Zumbrun) Anderson. Rich grew up in Columbia City, Indiana and graduated from Columbia City Joint High School in 1963.

He married Peggy Lu C**n on November 27, 1964, at Tri Lakes Baptist Church, Columbia City.

He graduated from Taylor University in 1967 with a Bachelor of Science degree in education. He also graduated St. Francis College in 1971 with a master's degree in education. Rich furthered his education with an Administrative Certification from IPFW University in 1975, along with additional work at IPFW and Ball State University.

He was hired at East Noble School Corporation in 1967 and spent his entire professional career at East Noble until retiring in June of 2000. He also was part-time supervisor/coordinator for the adult education program with Four County Vocational Co-op (Impact Institute) from 2001-2010. After retirement, he worked part time at Shepherd’s GM Dealership starting in 2000.

As a teacher and administrator, Rich felt that he needed to provide the right conditions to allow students to get the best education possible. He also believed that students needed to be encouraged to enjoy the total school experience by getting involved. That could best be done by providing a safe learning environment for students and staff. As a result, he attended countless activities and created rewards and extra opportunities for students. If students felt good about coming to school, it would improve conditions for all.

Rich was all about serving others. He was active in various community activities over the years including member & trustee of First Christian Church, member of Kendallville Lions Club since 1985, board member of Life & Family Services (2002-14), board member of Kendallville Library Endowment Fund (2001-2012), Junior Achievement, Dekko Youth Board, Kendallville Street Commission, YMCA Bluefins, KARE Housing Board, Sports broadcasting on WAWK of games for ENHS, and coordinating Old Tyme Popcorn Stand. He was honored as Kendallville Citizen of Year in 2009 and named to ENHS Athletic Wall of Fame in 2010.

Survivors include:
Wife, Peggy Anderson of Kendallville.
Daughter, Danielle and Jeff Newman of Fort Wayne.
Son, Chase and Kim Anderson of Kendallville.
Four grandchildren: Andrew Newman and Makenzie Harshey both of Fort Wayne; Nathan Newman of Fort Wayne and Indiana University; Paige Anderson of Kendallville and Valparaiso University; and Caden Anderson of Kendallville and Franklin College.

Rich was preceded in death by his parents, Everett and Theressa Anderson; brother, Dr. Garland DeWayne "Wayne" Anderson (2015); and sister, Marilyn Pulley (2007).

There will be a gathering of family and friends on Sunday, April 26, 2026, from 2:00 - 6:00PM at First Christian Church.
A celebration of the life of Rich Anderson will be held Monday, April 27, 2026, at 11:00AM at First Christian Church with Pastor David Gruber and Pastor Michael DeSanto officiating the service. There will be visitation from 10:00 - 11:00AM prior to the service.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in honor of Rich to either First Christian Church or Lion's Club, East Noble Scholarship Fund.

04/16/2026

On April 14, 2026, surrounded by her family, Rena Mae Amburgey went home to be with her husband Isaac Earl Amburgey and her sons Kenneth Ray Amburgey and John Edward Amburgey.
Rena Mae was born on May 18, 1939, in Ivis, Kentucky to Jolly (Dock) & Clarinda Short. Rena Mae lived a life filled with love and devotion to those she cherished most. She was a beloved wife, mother and a proud grandmother whose greatest joy came from caring for her family.

On October 16, 1954, Rena Mae married the love of her life Isaac Amburgey in Smithsboro, Kentucky at his father’s house. She shared a beautiful life with her husband, Isaac, and together they built a family rooted in love. As a mother, she gave endlessly of herself, always offering wisdom, comfort, and unwavering support. As a grandmother, she found pure happiness in every hug, every story, and every precious moment spent with her grandchildren, who were the light of her life.

Rena Mae will be remembered for her Sunday breakfasts and her love for gardening. Rena Mae left a lasting mark on all who knew her. She was employed by Handy and Harman and then Dana.

She is lovingly survived by daughters Robin Amburgey, Delores (Steve Christleib) Amburgey, and Phyllis (Donald) Clouse, honorary son Joseph Napora, daughter-in-law Sue Amburgey, many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, and her best friend and sister Ina Mae Wynn. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Isaac Amburgey, sons Kenneth and John Amburgey, brothers Hager Newsome, Kenneth and Harold Short, and sisters Jewell Baker, Armina Reynolds, Emagene Collins, and Dora Lee Back.

Though her presence will be deeply missed, her love will remain forever in the hearts of her husband, children, grandchildren, family, and friends. Her memory will continue to live on in the lives she touched so deeply.

A funeral service to honor and celebrate Rena's life will be held on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at 3:00 PM at Hite Funeral Home in Kendallville. Visitation will be held from 1:00-3:00 PM prior to the funeral service. She will be buried next to her late husband, Isaac, at Orange Cemetery near Rome City. Casket bearers will be Cameron Thompson, Joseph Napora, Tiffany Amburgey, Nicholas Combs, Brendan Napora, James Amburgey, Matthew Amburgey, and Michael Amburgey.

04/15/2026

Susan Mertz, otherwise known as Mom, Ma, Maj, Madre, Grandma and Sue, of Pretty Lake met Jesus face to face April 13, 2026.

She pursued Jesus for the duration of her life, leaning on him through life’s highs and lows. She found love not once but twice in her lifetime and built many lifelong relationships from her church friends to her clinic girls. Rebuilding after loss all while continuously giving of herself to her community, family, and friends came as second nature. She excelled at being involved but also found simple pleasures in being at the lake or playing cards.

She wanted to boost the morale of anyone she came into contact with. From costumed skits to providing a plethora of food, she sought to bring a smile or laugh to all. Humor was the best medicine and she always had something up her sleeve but appeared shocked when retaliation occurred. Confetti was her signature that eventually came back to get her. Her sarcasm transcended generations and she can rest easy knowing her grandchildren carry the torch well.

If you ever wanted to find her spunky side, you’d just pull out a deck of cards. She would have a new game with each visit and somehow managed to win nearly every time. Some say it’s strategy, some say she made up her own rules and some say there’s a reason she’s the scorekeeper. In a family of competitiveness, things were bound to get a little interesting.

In the last decade she also acquired a taste for minute-to-win it games. It was her goal to come up with new games to bring joy to us all, and maybe sometimes a little injury.

Her pantry was an adventure. If you wanted a snack that you refused to have in your own home, come to hers and you wouldn’t be disappointed. Beware as the snack may have a slightly stale taste with a best by date of two years prior but she just couldn’t pass up a good deal.

She took pride in her family with every accomplishment but was most proud of each one’s choice to follow Christ.

Her husband, James Mertz, three children, two daughter-in-laws, 8 grandchildren, three brothers, and bonus children, grandchildren and great grandchildren will meet her at those pearly gates at a later date where her parents, Henry & Vera Shepherd, and first husband, Dorane Beiswanger, have welcomed her to her new heavenly home.

She will be waiting for each of us to join her in heaven. Until then, may she forever live on in our memories like the box of Dream Whip in the back of her pantry.

Visitation and a celebration of Sue’s life will be held Saturday, April 18, 2026, at South Milford Church of Christ. Visitation will take place from 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM followed by a celebration of life service at 12 noon. Burial will follow at South Milford Cemetery. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to the SMCC youth.

04/06/2026

Patricia Ann (Hindenlang) Johnson, age 73, of Avilla, passed away April 4, 2026, at Kendallville Manor. Patricia was born in Fort Wayne, Indiana, on May 28, 1952, to the late Carl Edward Hindenlang and Joanna (Offord) Hindenlang. She was employed in the past with Kraft, Uniform Printing, Pent Plastics and Group Dekko.

Patricia found joy in life's simple pleasures and in the people she held closest. She enjoyed decorating for the holidays, reading and crafting. More than anything she cherished time spent with her family. Whether gathered for special occasions or sharing everyday moments, she found her greatest happiness in being surrounded by those she loved. Her kind spirit, creativity and love for her family will always be remembered.

Survivors include:
Son, Daniel Johnson of Mattawan, Michigan.
Daughter, Krista Johnson of Springfield, Michigan.
Daughter, Angela Cox (Luke) of Middlebury, Indiana.
Three grandchildren, AJ (Hannah) Wiedman, Natalie Johnson, Kora Johnson.
Two great grandchildren, Flynn Wiedman & Jayce Wiedman.
Brother, Ed and Leanne Hindenlang of Kendallville.
Brother, Bill Hindenlang of Michigan.
Sister, Sandy Brady of Rome City.

Preceded in death by her parents C. Edward and Joanna Hindenlang; her sister-in-law, Patricia Hindenlang; her brother-in-law Stan Brady.

There are no services scheduled at this time. The family will have a gathering at a later date.

04/05/2026

Linda K. Wiegman, 80, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, went to her heavenly home on April 4, 2026, in Fort Wayne after a courageous battle with cancer.

Linda was born October 11, 1945, in Bluffton, Indiana, to Ralph Meyer and Josephine (Liechty) Meyer. She graduated from Bluffton High School in 1963 and went on to Ball State University, earning a Bachelor of Science in Education in 1967 and a Master of Arts in Education in 1972. Linda devoted her career to serving children as an elementary school teacher and later as a school psychologist with Fort Wayne Community Schools, retiring in 2012. She especially loved working with children whether one-on-one or in groups to help them succeed.

A faithful follower of Christ, Linda surrendered her life to Jesus as Lord and Savior in March 1984 at Brookside Church in Fort Wayne. She was active in the life of Brookside Church, participating in women’s Bible studies and helping develop the church’s exterior landscaping along with other activities. An avid gardener who loved flowers, she earned the designation of Master Gardener. Linda also enjoyed cooking and entertaining friends and family, welcoming others with warmth and hospitality.

Linda was predeceased by her parents, Ralph and Josephine Meyer, and her son, Benjamin Wiegman.

She is survived by her companion, Tom Tucker of Fort Wayne, Indiana; three brothers, Richard (Theresa) Meyer of The Villages, Florida; Jerry (Vickie) Meyer of Owosso, Michigan; and Doug Meyer of Fort Wayne; two nieces, two nephews, and seven great-nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held at Brookside Church, 6102 Evard Road, Fort Wayne, Indiana, on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at 11:00 a.m., with calling prior to the service from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Riley Children’s Hospital, Brookside Church, or donor’s favorite charity.

"Well done, good and faithful servant." — Matthew 25:23

04/04/2026

Monica Ethel (Debes) Rasbaugh, age 91, of Kendallville, passed away on Good Friday, April 3, 2026, at Presence Sacred Heart Home, Avilla. Mrs. Rasbaugh was born in Kendallville, Indiana, on July 27, 1934, to the late Walter Francis Debes and Mary Josephine (Walt) Debes. She married Donald Fred Rasbaugh who preceded her in death in 2015. Monica was a homemaker.

Survivors include:
Son, Kevin and Melinda Hamman of Kendallville.
Son, Michael Hamman of New Port Ritchey, Florida.
Five grandchildren: Candi Hamman of Fort Wayne; Erin (Jeremy) Kilgore of Ligonier; Brandon (Kristie) Hamman of Ligonier; Christopher (Regina) Hamman of Evansville; and
Carrie Gillard of Fort Wayne.
Five great grandchildren and two great-great grandchildren.
Brother, Anthony "Tony" and Martha Debes of Avilla.
Twelve nieces and nephews.

Monica was preceded in death by her parents, Walter and Mary Debes; son, David Hamman; two sisters, Janette Muzzillo and Merrilee Craft; and three brothers, Robert Debes, Leo Debes, and Stephen Debes.

A graveside service will be held at a later date at Cosperville Cemetery. Date and time will be announced later.

04/04/2026

Michael Lynn Davis, age 74, of Avilla, passed away April 1, 2026, at Miller's Merry Manor, Garrett, Indiana. Michael was born in Kendallville, Indiana, on August 11, 1951, to the late Richard Lee Davis and Beatrice Irene (Hovarter) Davis. He graduated from East Noble High School in 1969 and married Wanda Sue Campbell on October 11, 1969, at Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Laotto, Indiana. Mike was employed by Kraft Foods, International Harvestor, Magnavox, and Raytheon. Mike was an avid woodworker and gardener and he loved fishing. In his younger days, he played slow pitch softball. He was also an avid sports fan and golfer. He was a fan of the Indianapolis Colts, Chicago Cubs, and Chicago Bears. Most importantly, he loved his family and spending time with them.

Survivors include:
Wife, Wanda Davis of Avilla.
Daughter, Dawn and Dennis Mast of Avilla.
Son, Doug and Jennifer Davis of Kendallville.
Grandchildren: Cody Mast and Terri Maggart both of Albion; Kyle and Haley Mast of Kendallville; Kevin Mast and Paige Bennett both of Bluffton; Ashley Davis and Zach Miner of Kendallville and Fort Wayne; and Allison Davis of Avilla.
Six great grandchildren: Kellen, Kinley, Nylah, Brody, Bayeigh, and Briella.
Sister, Darlene Ritchie of Kendallville.
Sister, Cheri and Mike Shearer of Ligonier.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents, Richard and Beatrice Davis; and a sister, Vicky Wallen.

Visitation will be held Tuesday, April 7, 2026, from 4:00 - 7:00pm at Hite Funeral Home in Kendallville.
Funeral services will be held Wednesday, April 8, 2026, at 11:00am at Hite Funeral Home with Pastor Mark McCue officiating.
Burial will follow at Perry Township Cemetery, Huntertown.
Memorial donations may be made to Noble County Humane Society.

04/03/2026

Patricia “Pat” Pontzius (Young), 80, peacefully passed away on Sunday, March 29th, surrounded by her three granddaughters.

Pat, one of four children and only daughter, born to Preston and Eva Young, attended Albion Jefferson High School and graduated in 1963. She married Billy Pontzius in 1965 and they welcomed two daughters, four grandchildren, and ten great grandchildren.

With an infectious giggle and gentle spirit, Pat was well-known for her crocheting talent and delicious strawberry jam, but one of the most fulfilling roles she held was that of a foster parent and babysitter to numerous children.

Pat was incredibly resilient, experiencing a lot of grief during her time on earth, including the passing of the love of her life of 49 and a half years, as well as her two daughters, but she held onto her faith and the promise of meeting them again one day.

She is survived by her four grandchildren, Jessica (Jason) Miller of Rome City, Jennifer (Taylor) Orr of Albion, Jacqueline (Justin) Price of New Haven, and Timothy Wells Jr of West Virginia, her 10 great grandchildren, her brother, Dennis (Eileen) Young of Fort Wayne, and her sister-in-law, Barb Young (Jerry) of Churubusco. She is preceded in death by her husband, Billy Pontzius, her two daughters, Dee Meadows and Mary Wells, and her two brothers, Jerry and Ernest Young.

There will be a gathering of family and friends on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, from 5:00 - 7:00 PM at Hite Funeral Home in Kendallville.

04/03/2026

Sandra Lee (Walters) Parisot, age 82, of Fort Wayne, passed away March 24, 2026, at Parkview Regional Medical Center, Fort Wayne. Mrs. Parisot was born in Fort Wayne, Indiana, on June 19, 1943, to the late Dale Walters and Wanda (White) Walters. She first married Ross Gambrell who preceded her in death in March of 1976. She later married Ronald Parisot who also preceded her in death in 2012. Sandy was employed with the U.S. Food Service in customer service and a member of Emanuel Lutheran Church in New Haven.

Survivors include:
Son, Kevin and Barbara Gambrell of Big Otter Lake, Fremont.
Daughter, Tammy and Richard White of Ossian.
Four grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.
Companion, Paul Conover.

Sandra was also preceded in death by daughter, Kim Elizabeth Gambrell, in 1996; and two sisters, Bonnie Walters and Ruth Walters.

A private memorial service will be held in the chapel at Lindenwood Cemetery in Fort Wayne on Friday, May 1, 2026, followed by an interment in the Garden of Peace. Pastor David Stecker will conduct the services.

03/31/2026

William Gordon Ashmore, age 77, of Kendallville, passed away March 30, 2026, at Orchard Pointe in Kendallville. Mr. Ashmore was born in Spartanburg, South Carolina on May 16, 1948, to the late Freeman Ashmore and Christine Kate (Griffin) Ashmore. He graduated from Landrum High School in South Carolina and was owner/operator of an automotive care and detailing business.

Survivors include:
Daughter, Sandi and Chris Maners of Albion.
Three grandchildren, Tabbetha Moran of Albion; John and Christina Maners of Wawaka; and Fabiola Maners of Albion.
Five great grandchildren, Grace Moran, Emrey Moran, Austin Salzbrenner, Ellisyn Moran, and Charlee Maners.
William was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Jimmy Ashmore; and three sisters, Mary Lawson, Joyce Wessinger, and Judy Edney.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, April 4, 2026, at 1:00 PM at New Hope Baptist Church, 2900 N. 500 E., Kendallville.

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