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McKee Mortuary Inc, 1401 State Road 114 W, North Manchester, IN (2026)

02/07/2026

David A. Waas

Professor of History Emeritus, David A Waas, born February 20th, 1926, died mid-morning February 4th, 2026, days shy of his 100th birthday.

Born to E.R. and Lorraine (Douglas) Waas in Burbank California, David spent his childhood acting in school plays, singing in choirs, and working in his father's shop repairing bicycles and shoes.

David became active in the Church of the Brethren in his teens and spent a year as the pastor of the Glendale Church of the Brethren in California. Deciding that pastoral work was not his calling, he chose to attend Manchester College in North Manchester, Indiana. There he met and later married Rebecca Brightbill.

David and Becky together pursued his higher education living in student housing in Urbana Champaign, where David earned his Masters and PhD at the University of Illinois. Together they had four daughters, Martha, Deborah, Elizabeth and Lorraine.

David was a lifelong educator and was on faculty of Otterbein, Western State, and Cottey colleges before accepting a position in the history department of his alma mater, Manchester.

David and Becky and their girls made their lives in North Manchester where he was active in local elections, served on numerous committees for the Manchester Church of the Brethren and served his community with the Rotary Club. Over the 60 years David was a resident of North Manchester, he and Becky traveled extensively. After his retirement from Manchester College in 1991, they taught on several Semester at Sea voyages and led dozens of tours to countries all over the world.

While most people met David in his role as a teacher, he himself was always a student. Whether it was understanding a complex historical scenario or learning about the family of his tour guide, David sought knowledge and understanding.

He was a lifelong choir member, library patron and gave a weekly community current affairs lecture called News talk.

He is preceded in death by his youngest daughter Lorraine, his beloved wife, Becky, his parents, E.R. and Lorraine and his siblings Douglas and Altonetta. He is survived by three daughters, Martha, Deborah and Elizabeth and multiple grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.

Services will be held at the Manchester Church of the Brethren at a date yet to be determined.

For those who wish to honor the memory of David A. Waas, memorial contributions may be made to On Earth Peace, P.O. Box 188, New Windsor, Maryland 21776-0188. www.onearthpeace.org/donate

The family of David Waas has entrusted McKee Mortuary with care and final arrangements.

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02/07/2026

Scott Paul Wrightsman, born on September 11, 1965, in Warsaw, Indiana, to Paul A. and Shirley A. Wrightsman, passed away at his home in North Manchester, Indiana, on February 5, 2026. He was 60 years old at the time of his passing.

Scott graduated from Whitko High School in 1984 and went on to work for various companies, which included being a delivery driver for Lowes. Prior to this, he worked for a commercial cleaning company.

Beyond his professional life, Scott attended the Eel River Old German Baptist Brethren Church. Scott also had a keen interest in genealogy, exploring his family's history.

The loving memory of Scott Wrightsman will be forever cherished by his sister, Connie (Dennis) Jamison, Rocky Mount, Virginia; nephews, Regan (Rebecca) Jamison, Clinton (Michelle) Jamison, and Nolan (Libby) Jamison; nieces, Regina Jamison, Lucinda (Cameron) Austin, Colleen (Kidron) Bowman, and Molly (Trenton) Wisler; twenty-four great nieces and nephews; paternal aunt, Carol Grindle, North Manchester; maternal aunt, Lois (Rodger) Van Ausdal, Clayton, Ohio; and many close friends who were his "family". Scott was preceded in death by his parents.

Family and friends may call Monday, February 9, 2026 from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. and 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Eel River Old German Baptist Brethren Church, 2128 East 1200 South, Silver Lake, Indiana. Funeral services will be held Tuesday, February 10, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. at the Eel River Old German Baptist Brethren Church, Silver Lake. Burial will be held at the Eel River Old German Baptist Brethren Cemetery.

The family of Scott Wrightsman would like to thank McKee Mortuary for the care and final arrangements.

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02/03/2026

Frances "Fran" Stapleton

Frances "Fran" Stapleton, a beloved member of the community and a follower of her faith, passed away on February 2, 2026, at Parkview Regional Medical Center in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Born on September 17, 1961, in Fort Wayne, to Raymond F. and Naomi J. (Barbour) Stapleton, Fran dedicated her life to her family, career, and community.

Fran graduated from Manchester High School in 1979 and furthered her education at Ball State University, where she expressed her passion for music by playing the flute in the university band. Throughout her life, Fran maintained her love for music, continuing to play the flute with the Manchester Civic Band, sharing her talents and joy with those around her.

Her career with Pizza Hut in North Manchester began in 1999 until 2015, always serving her customers with a smile. Afterward, she found her calling at Home Helpers in Warsaw, where she continued to serve the community until her retirement in 2021.

A true servant at heart, Fran's faith was a guiding force in her life. Known as a prayer warrior, she took it upon herself to pray for the well-being of others and was deeply involved in her ministry. Fran was committed to spreading kindness, sending thoughtful cards for important life events, and creating crafts for nursing staff at Peabody Retirement Community. Her heartfelt goody bags were a symbol of her generosity, bringing joy to those who received them.

Fran was a devoted member of the North Manchester Missionary Church and participated in Big Brothers Big Sisters, reflecting her unwavering desire to uplift others. Her strong Christian faith was evident in all she did, as she offered emotional support and practical help to those in need.

In her younger years, Fran delighted in cooking and sharing meals with her neighbors, exemplifying her warm and welcoming spirit. She had a particular affection for cats and pets, which brought her joy and companionship throughout her life.

The loving memory of Frances “Fran” Stapleton will be forever cherished by her sisters, Marjorie Perkins, North Manchester, Jean Zumbrun, North Webster, Mary Jo Stapleton, Warsaw, Susan “Susi” Catania, Indianapolis, and Barbara (Paul) Barefoot, North Manchester; nephews, Bill Perkins, Brad (Hilary) Brown, Mark (Megan) Perkins, Jason (Ashley) Perkins, Ben Barefoot, James (Sochivly) Stapleton, Cory Catania, Tony (Christine) Barefoot, and Steven (Maggie) Bever; niece, Robin Catania; great-nephews, Derek (Mary) Brown, Logon Perkins, Alex Perkins, Austin Zarse, Jacob Zarse, and Quintin Zarse; great-nieces, Addison Brown, Lily Perkins, and Hanna Zarse; great-great-nephew, Levi; and two great-great-nieces, Adaline and Arora. Fran was preceded in death by her parents.

Family and friends may call Friday, February 6, 2026 from 12:00 noon to 2:00 p.m. at McKee Mortuary, 1401 State Road 114 West, North Manchester, Indiana. Funeral services will begin at the conclusion of calling with Pastor J.P. Freeman officiating. Burial will take place at Pleasant Hill Cemetery in North Manchester, at a later date.

For those who wish to honor the memory of Fran Stapleton, memorial contributions may be made to the North Manchester Missionary Church, 806 State Road 114 East, North Manchester, Indiana 46962 or Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast Indiana, 1005 West Rudisill Blvd., Suite 101, Fort Wayne, Indiana 46807.

The family of Fran Stapleton has entrusted McKee Mortuary with care and final arrangements.

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02/03/2026

Donovon "Donny" L. Blocher

Donovon "Donny" L. Blocher, born on December 4, 1951, to Ray and Lucile (Wray) Blocher, in Wabash, Indiana, passed away on February 2, 2026, at Parkview Regional Medical Center in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He was 74 years old.

A graduate of Manchester High School, class of 1970, Donny embarked on a diverse career path that saw him travel extensively across the United States as a truck driver for various companies. His dedication to hard work was further exemplified through the ownership and operation of J&J Lawn Service alongside his sons, who shared in this family enterprise for many years.

Donny was a member of the Twin Oaks Old Brethren. He fostered a passion for collecting toy tractors, a hobby that reflected his love for agriculture. In his younger years, he thoroughly enjoyed traveling. Donny always enjoyed a spirited conversation. He was married to Penny Lee Metzger, with whom they were blessed to raise three children: Michelle, Jason, and Jerrold.

The loving memory of Donny Blocher will be forever cherished by his children, Michelle (Gregory) C**n, North Manchester, Jason (Chastity) Blocher, Urbana, and Jerrold Blocher, Warsaw; brother, Alan Blocher, Laketon; sister, Vivian K. Stambaugh; thirteen grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. Donny was preceded in death by his parents; and brother-in-law, Dale Stambaugh.

Family and friends may call Sunday, February 8, 2026 from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m. at McKee Mortuary, 1401 State Road 114 West, North Manchester, Indiana. Funeral services will begin on Monday, February 9, 2026 at 10:00 at McKee Mortuary, with calling beginning at 9:00 a.m. Brethren Tim Yoder and Jesse Denlinger will officiate. Burial will be held at the North Manchester Old German Baptist Brethren Cemetery.

For those who wish to honor the memory of Donny Blocher, memorial contributions may be made to McKee Mortuary, 1401 State Road 114 West, North Manchester, Indiana 46962, to assist with final expenses.

The family of Donny Blocher has entrusted McKee Mortuary with care and final arrangements.

View Donovon "Donny" L. Blocher's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

01/30/2026

Jay Duane Heckaman

Jay Duane Heckaman, a resident of Silver Lake, Indiana, passed away at his home on January 28, 2026, at the age of 65. Born on March 14, 1960, in Bremen, Indiana, to Merl and Joann (Gragg) Heckaman, Jay was a dedicated member of his church and a devoted family man.

A graduate of Warsaw High School in 1978, Jay was actively involved in various school activities, including the band and 4-H. After completing his education, he embarked on a noteworthy forty-three-year career at R.R. Donnelley in Warsaw, where he worked third shift as a hoist driver, material handler and assistant operator until his retirement in 2023.

On May 25, 1985, Jay married Sharon Wright, and together they shared a loving marriage that spanned over four decades. Their family was profoundly affected by the tragic loss of their daughter, Josie Marie Heckaman, who passed away on March 20, 2010. Despite this heartache, Jay remained a compassionate and caring individual, always looking out for the well-being of those around him.

Jay was a strong Christian man, whose faith was an integral part of his life. He was a valued member of South Pleasant Church in Silver Lake, participating in the Sunday School class and serving on various committees, reflecting his commitment to his beliefs and community involvement.

Throughout his life, Jay found joy in spending time with friends and family. In his younger years, he was known for his outgoing personality, but in later years, he relished the quieter pleasures of home life. He had a profound appreciation for nature and enjoyed activities such as hunting and gardening. His love for animals was evident, especially in his affection for his beloved cats and dog.

The loving memory of Jay Duane Heckaman will be forever cherished by his wife, Sharon Heckaman, Silver Lake; parents, Merl and Joann Heckaman, Warsaw; siblings, Kay (Robert) Ruggier, Warsaw, Eric (Nicole) Heckaman, Warsaw, and Tim (Noel) Heckaman, Claypool; sister-in-law, Julie (Casey Shepherd) Heckaman, Claypool; and many nieces and nephews. Jay was preceded in death by his daughter, Josie Marie Heckaman; and brother, Brian Heckaman.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Jay’s life on Sunday, February 8, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. at the South Pleasant Church, 5064 West 1400 North, North Manchester, Indiana, with Pastor Duane Kline officiating. The family will greet people after the service.

For those who wish to honor the memory of Jay Heckaman, memorial contributions may be made to C.O. Mollenhouer Conservation Camp, P.O. Box 1366 Warsaw, Indiana 46581 or the South Pleasant Church, 5064 West 1400 North, North Manchester, Indiana 46962.

The family of Jay Heckaman has entrusted McKee Mortuary with care and final arrangements.

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01/29/2026

Effie Jean Allen

Effie Jean Allen, born on February 24, 1934, in Gunlock, Kentucky, to Silas and Mona (Prater) Howard Sr., passed away at her home in North Manchester, Indiana, on January 27, 2026. She was a woman of strength and devotion, known for both her unwavering faith and her deep commitment to family.

On March 12, 1955, Effie married Glen Allen in Wabash, Indiana, and together they created a loving family, welcoming two children into the world, Kimberly and Thomas. The family experienced heartache with the passing of their beloved son Thomas on November 16, 2015. Effie's enduring spirit shone brightly even in times of sorrow, as she remained a loving mother who cherished and spoiled her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Effie dedicated her professional life to Woodcraft Furniture Factory, where she spent over forty-three years crafting furniture parts until her retirement.

Effie’s faith was central to her life; she was a God-fearing woman and a member of the Free United Baptist Church in Pierceton, Indiana. Her belief system provided her with comfort and strength throughout her life, guiding her through both joyful and challenging times.

The loving memory of Effie Allen will be forever cherished by her daughter, Kimberly Yates, North Manchester; brothers, Forrest Howard, North Manchester and Dean Howard, Silver Lake; sisters, Geraldine Howard and Ilant (Chandler) Shepherd, both of Silver Lake; grandchildren, Heath Allen, Warsaw, Matthew Allen, Claypool, and Shane (Kimberly) Yates, North Manchester; great-grandchildren, Audrey Allen, Bryar Allen, Tyler Yates, and Brayden Yates. Effie was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Glen Allen; son and daughter-in-law, Thomas and Rhonda Allen; son-in-law, Ron Yates; brothers, Silas Howard Jr., Clayton Howard, William Howard, and Gradon Howard; and sister, Mabel Miller.

Family and friends may call Saturday, February 7, 2026 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon at McKee Mortuary, 1401 State Road 114 West, North Manchester, Indiana. Funeral services will begin at the conclusion of calling with Pastor Ward Etsie Allen officiating. Burial will be held at Lakeview Cemetery in Silver Lake, Indiana.

For those who wish to honor the memory of Effie Allen, memorial contributions may be made to the Free United Baptist Church, 7035 South State Road 13, Pierceton, Indiana 46562.

The family of Effie Allen has entrusted McKee Mortuary with care and final arrangements.

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01/27/2026

Donald Karl Schultz

Donald Karl Schultz, born on April 9, 1946, in South Bend, Indiana, to Harold and Emma (Detweiler) Schultz, passed away on December 23, 2025, at the age of 79, at the Timbercrest Healthcare Center in North Manchester, Indiana.

Don's academic journey began at John Adams High School in South Bend, where he graduated in 1964. He continued to pursue higher education at Manchester College, earning his undergraduate degree in 1968 while also expanding his talent and love for basketball on the court as a member of the Manchester Spartans during the 1966-67 season. This passion continued throughout his lifetime. Don then obtained his master’s degree from Miami University in 1969 and completed his PhD at the University of California, Santa Barbara, in 1976. His doctoral research was notably conducted in Munich, Germany, focusing on the significant impact of American international corporations on U.S. and West German foreign policies.

Don was a devoted energy analyst for the State of California in Sacramento and had a distinguished career as a college professor, sharing his knowledge and passion for education at institutions including West Virginia, Santa Barbara, Las Vegas, Sacramento, and in West Germany. Between 1995 and 2000, he also served as a consultant to the state of Hawaii, further contributing to the field he loved. Additionally, Don was a proud Eagle Scout and continued his respect for the outdoors by professionally championing the environment while finding peace personally in nature.

Don married Wendy Metzger on May 19, 2012, in a ceremony held at the International Peace Rose Garden in Sacramento, California. They were introduced through a serendipitous connection—Wendy's cousin Devon, who had been Don's roommate during their college years and lifelong friend. Together, Don and Wendy built a life full of travel and adventure.

Always an early riser, Don regularly lived up to one of his many nicknames “Don at Dawn,” where he enjoyed his morning espresso and bird watching. He was known for his extensive travels across Europe, with a special fondness for Siena, Italy. His journeys took him to Hong Kong and Mexico, where he cherished the experiences and cultures encountered along the way, and fondly adopted another nickname, “Cabo Donaldo”. Don was passionate about woodworking, dedicating his free time to crafting small figurines that reflected his creativity and skill. During his time in Sacramento, he was often found enjoying the city and cafe culture on foot where he quickly amassed a collection of locals who all knew “Downtown Don”.

Always curious, Don’s playful banter created lasting connections with so many people he met. His endless quest for knowledge and individual perspectives on a variety of topics, found him in enriching discussions about politics, history, and personal experiences. Driven by an independent spirit, Don was happy to recall stories from the people he met, and the adventures he shared.

The loving memory of Donald Schultz will be forever cherished by his wife, Wendy Metzger, North Manchester; children, Ryan (Amira) Schultz and Travis (Erika Bridges) Nagle, both of Portland, Oregon, Lutricia (David Martin) Eberly, Dillsburg, Pennsylvania, and Luke Eberly, Anderson, Indiana; grandchildren, Jad Schultz, Ashton Schultz, and Carson Eberly; sisters, Eileen Burry, Cleveland Heights, Ohio; brother-in-law, Ron Tebbe, Wooster, Ohio. Donald was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Joanne Frye; and brother-in-law, James Burry.

For those who wish to honor the memory of Donald Schultz, memorial contributions may be made to either:

International World Peace Rose Gardens, P.O. Box 15919, Sacramento, California 95852 or online at www.worldpeacerosegardens.com.Timbercrest, Memo “Wooded Trail Project”, 2201 East Street, North Manchester, IN 46962The family of Donald Karl Schultz has entrusted McKee Mortuary with final arrangements.

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01/27/2026

Joann Miller

Joann Miller, 86, North Manchester, passed away on January 25, 2026, at the Peabody Healthcare Center in North Manchester, Indiana. Born on April 23, 1939, in Wabash, Indiana, to George W. “Bud” and Beulah Irene “Duke” (Gill) Clark, Joann's warmth and kindness touched the lives of all who knew her.

Joann graduated from Central High School in 1957, laying the foundation for a life filled with hard work and commitment. On June 7, 1959, she married Wayne Miller, who was a cherished husband in her life until his passing on July 30, 2025. Together, they shared a loving bond that resonated through their family and friendships. Joann's gentle and giving personality allowed her to forge many lasting friendships throughout her lifetime.

Her professional journey started at Peabody Retirement Community for two years, before going to Heckman Bindery, where she worked from 1957 to 1975. Joann and her brother Max, embarked as co-owners and operators of Clark’s Log Cabin Restaurant and the Root Beer Barrel, continuing the family business, started by her parents. Joann's commitment to her roles exemplified her strong work ethic and compassion for others.

The loving memory of Joann Miller will be forever cherished by her sisters-in-law, Mary Lou Reed, Akron and Ruth Ann Kline, North Manchester; brother-in-law, Paul Miller, North Manchester; several nieces and nephews; and the friends she made over the years. Joann was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Wayne Miller; brothers, Harold “Sparky” Clark, Max Clark, and her twin, Joe Clark; brothers-in-law, Jack H. Miller, Dick Lee Miller, Michael Reed, and Paul Kline.

The family of Joann Miller will grieve privately. Burial will take place at Oaklawn Cemetery, North Manchester, Indiana.

The family of Joann Miller has entrusted McKee Mortuary with care and final arrangements.

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01/26/2026

Wayne E. Cumberland

Wayne E. Cumberland, age 85, passed away peacefully at Peabody Retirement Community on January 25, 2026. He was born on September 26, 1940, to Paul and Kathryn Cumberland in Beaver Dam, where he attended twelve years of school and developed a lifelong love of athletics, playing both baseball and basketball. On May 17, 1991, he married Barbara Joyce (Hathaway) Toetz.

He continued his education at Manchester College, earning his undergraduate degree in mathematics, and later completed his master’s at the University of Notre Dame. These achievements marked the beginning of a lifelong commitment to learning and teaching. Wayne devoted 42 years to education in the Tippecanoe Valley High School area, where he taught math, physics, and computer science. Quietly and consistently, he shaped generations of students, always working behind the scenes to strengthen academics, athletics, and, most importantly, student development.

Wayne was a passionate supporter of school and community programs. He kept the basketball scorebook for the Akron Flyers and later for Tippecanoe Valley varsity basketball and football games. His dedication extended to driving athletic team buses anytime he was needed, maintaining the school’s swimming pool from its inception, and even driving charter motor coaches, reflecting his lifelong love of vehicles. He helped bring the first computer lab to the high school and co-founded the TVHS Ski Club. In his spare time, Wayne welcomed any opportunity to teach, including volunteering at the county jail to assist with GED tutoring.

A lifelong teacher in every sense, Wayne passed his love of athletics on to his sons—Shawn, a standout high school basketball player, and Brett, a swimmer for Tippecanoe Valley High School. More important than wins or statistics, Wayne emphasized participation, hard work, and doing one’s best, believing athletics were a classroom for character, discipline, and personal growth.

Wayne was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He was preceded in death by his parents and his older brother, Jim. He is survived by his wife, Joyce Cumberland; his two sons, Brett and Shawn (Kelly), from his first marriage to Linda Arnold; five grandchildren, including Paul and Neil (children of Brett) and Drew (Brittany), Dylan (Rachel), and Brianna Knepper (Joe) (children of Shawn); six great-grandchildren; and two step-children, Mark (Melissa) Toetz and Eric (Kelly) Toetz, and four step-grandchildren: James, Alex (Sonja), Quentin, and Victoria.

He was a faithful member of North Manchester Methodist Church and the Notre Dame Alumni Association.

Outside of teaching, Wayne enjoyed cars and motorcycles—from his early Corvair to motorcycles later in life. He never missed the Indianapolis 500, whether listening on the radio in his garage or attending races in person, and he was known for always having a great stereo system. An avid music lover, Wayne played the clarinet and slide guitar and took great joy in sharing music with others.

Wayne E. Cumberland will be remembered as a dedicated educator, a quiet champion of students and schools, and a man whose influence will be felt for generations.

Family and friends may call Saturday, January 31, 2026 from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. at the North Manchester United Methodist Church, 306 East 2nd Street, North Manchester, Indiana. Funeral services will begin at the conclusion of calling with Pastor Andrea Lantz officiating. A private burial will be held at Oaklawn Cemetery in North Manchester, Indiana, at a later date.

For those who wish to honor the memory of Wayne E. Cumberland, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, Tennessee 38105 or the North Manchester United Methodist Church, 306 East 2nd Street, North Manchester, Indiana 46962.

The family of Wayne Cumberland has entrusted McKee Mortuary with care and final arrangements.

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01/22/2026

Cindy Kay Houser

Cindy Kay Houser, a beacon of unwavering love and compassion, entered the world on October 10, 1953, in Goshen, Indiana, as the cherished daughter of David and Donnabelle (Snyder) Welborn. She departed this life on January 20, 2026, at Timbercrest Healthcare Center in North Manchester, Indiana, leaving behind a legacy of kindness that touched countless hearts.

Raised in Warsaw, Indiana, Cindy graduated from Warsaw High School and soon found her lifelong partner in Neil W. Houser, whom she married on December 17, 1971. Their union blossomed into an extraordinary adventure, leading them to Kasilof, Alaska, where they built a vibrant life together for 38 years. In this remote haven, they raised five children while opening their home to over 30 foster children, embodying Cindy’s boundless empathy and commitment to nurturing those in need.

As a devoted homemaker, Cindy filled her home with warmth and security, using her natural talents to shape a place where her children grew up feeling supported and confident. Her loyalty to Neil and her steadfast role as a mother showed who she truly was, and it touched everyone around her. Beyond her family, Cindy extended her caring spirit through her work in retirement communities, where she provided gentle support to the elderly. She also found solace and creativity in cross-stitching and quilting. Together with Neil, she cherished every moment spent riding 4‑wheelers through Alaska’s rugged landscape.

In 2018, Neil and Cindy returned to North Manchester, Indiana, where Neil tenderly cared for her as her health declined. Their enduring bond, forged through decades of shared joys and challenges, stood as a powerful testament to the strength of their love.

A faithful member of Leesburg Grace Brethren Church in Leesburg, Indiana, Cindy’s spiritual life was a guiding light, infusing her actions with grace and purpose. She will be eternally remembered for her generous heart, her tireless dedication to family, and the indelible mark she left on so many lives.

Cindy’s memory lives on through her devoted husband, Neil W. Houser of North Manchester; her children, Amy Williams of Sterling, Alaska, Shad (Maria) Houser of El Paso, TX, Adam (Sara) Houser of Medway, MA, and Cherise Armstrong of Kenai, AK; her brother, Kenneth (Jean) Welborn of Indianapolis; her sister, Carol Bennema of Chicago, IL; her brothers-in-law, Denny Klotz of Warsaw and David Loher of Winona Lake; 13 beloved grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and the many foster children whose lives she forever enriched. She was preceded in death by her parents; her son, Shawn Houser; her sisters, Karen Loher and Christine Klotz; and her brother-in-law, Dennis Bennema.

A celebration of Cindy’s remarkable life will be held at a later date. For those who wish to honor the memory of Cindy Kay Houser, memorial contributions may be made to the Leesburg Grace Brethren Church, 101 West School Street, Leesburg, Indiana 46538.

The family of Cindy Kay Houser has entrusted McKee Mortuary with care and final arrangements.

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01/21/2026

Lillian Trageser Brumbaugh

Lillian Trageser Brumbaugh died on January 19, 2026, while resting peacefully at Timbercrest Senior Living Community in North Manchester, Indiana. Lillian was born April 4, 1931, in Beltsville, MD to Charles and Hilma (Mortenson) Trageser. Known as “Frances” during her childhood and youth, she was raised on her parent’s flower and fruit farm in Beltsville, where she was the youngest of eight children. In her youth, she was baptized into the University Park Church of the Brethren. Lillian received a BS degree in Home Economics from the University of Maryland, having first studied one year at Bridgewater College, Virginia. In February 1953, she married James Perry Brumbaugh II, son of James and Lydia Brumbaugh of Glenn Dale, Maryland. First living in Pennsylvania, they returned home to start a family in 1955. Lillian and Jim raised their four children in Laurel, Glenn Dale, and Upper Marlboro, Maryland.

In the mid-1960s, Lillian pursued teaching certification in Home Economics and then K-3rd grade. She taught approximately 15 years in the Prince George’s County public schools, primarily in the kindergarten classroom. In the late 1970s, Lillian experienced a spiritual renewal and began pursuing theological studies, first at Bethany Theological Seminary (Oakbrook, IL), then completing her Master of Divinity degree from Wesley Theological Seminary (Washington, DC) in 1983. She was ordained to the ministry by the Church of the Brethren. She served as pastor for congregations in Nokesville, VA, Denton, MD, West Branch, IL, and Mesa, AZ. Until Jim’s passing in 1987, Lillian and her husband enjoyed travelling to the Holy Lands and to Brethren historical and mission sites in Germany, Nigeria, Sudan, and Haiti. She also traveled to China and visited her mother’s home in Sweden.

Lillian moved to Timbercrest in 2007, remaining there until her passing. For many years she was active on Timbercrest’s chapel committee, planning chapel services and leading Bible studies.

Lillian had a love of flowers, especially irises. She enjoyed recounting how on Saturday mornings President Truman walked four blocks from the White House to her father’s flower and produce stand at Western Market to buy flowers for first lady Bess Truman. Lillian’s children and grandchildren continue to tend bulbs descended from her father’s irises.

Lillian was predeceased by her husband, parents, five sisters and two brothers, and a son-in-law. She is survived by four children: Christine Brumbaugh (Onancock, VA), Cynthia Burton (Warsaw, IN), Gwendolyn Brumbaugh (Bridgewater, VA) and James (Amy) Brumbaugh-Smith (North Manchester, IN), as well as ten grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews. She will be laid to rest in George Washington Cemetery (Adelphi, MD) next to her devoted husband of thirty-four years.

Visitation: Saturday, January 24, 1:30-3:00, Timbercrest Chapel foyer, 2201 East Street, North Manchester, IN

Funeral: Friday, January 30, 3:00, University Park Church of the Brethren, 4413 Tuckerman St., University Park, MD (visitation one hour prior)

Preferred memorials: Bridgewater College, VA; Bethany Theological Seminary, Richmond, IN

Arrangements by McKee Mortuary, North Manchester, IN and Gasch’s Funeral Home, Hyattsville, MD.

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