Hess Funeral Home and Cremation Services

Hess Funeral Home and Cremation Services Locally and family owned funeral home in LaGrange, Indiana. Coming in spring of 2025 will be Hess Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Fort Wayne, IN.

Committed to providing personalized and affordable funeral options for all families in the community.

Michael “Mike” Frederick McDuffee, age 75, of North Twin Lake, Howe, IN passed away on Monday, July 14, 2025, at Parkvie...
07/16/2025

Michael “Mike” Frederick McDuffee, age 75, of North Twin Lake, Howe, IN passed away on Monday, July 14, 2025, at Parkview Regional Medical Center in Fort Wayne, IN. Mr. McDuffee was born on December 4, 1949, in Muncie, IN to William Frederick and Elizabeth (Viles) McDuffee. Mike graduated from Wadsworth High School in Ohio and then continued his education, where he obtained an associate's degree in business in Ohio. He then served his country honorably with the United States Army during the Vietnam War. On July 24, 1970, he married his wife of nearly 55 years, Lucinda Anne Bill, in Covington, KY. For nearly 40 years, Mike worked diligently as a sales manager within industrial sales. He was an avid car enthusiast. He loved watching car shows, enjoyed car rides, and was extremely proud of his previously owned GTO, 1968 Camaro SS, and his favorite the 1969 Volkswagen Super Bus. Mike loved his canine companion “Izzy” and they did everything, from car rides to trips to Taco Bell, Jimmy Johns, and the coffee shop. He was an outdoors enthusiast, loved being on the lake, boating, and camping. For numerous years he was a Scout Leader for the Boy Scouts. Above all, he was best known as being a wonderful husband, absolutely amazing father and grandfather, and kept friendships with people he knew his entire life. Mike was a hero and will be greatly missed by those who knew and loved him.

Survivors include:
Spouse, Lucinda Anne McDuffee.
Son, Joshua (Susan) McDuffee.
Daughter, Amy McDuffee.
Canine Companion, Izzy.
Former son-in-law, Steve Sickle.
Grandchildren, Devan (Stephen Cottrill) Sickle, Tynan Cutting, Taylor McDuffee, Broden McDuffee, and Reagan McDuffee.
Sister, Theresa (Peter) Chiafalo.
Brother, Tom (Angie) McDuffee.
Brother-in-law, Roger (Deanne Fleet) Bill.
Brother-in-law, Robert (Marge) Bill.
Cousin, Kent Viles.
Cousin, Susan Viles-Booker.
Several of nieces and nephews.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Sally McDuffee.

A private family celebration of life will be held at a later time and cremation will take place upon Mike’s final wishes.

Arrangements and care trusted to Hess Funeral Home and Cremation Services.

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Marks Infant Twins were born into eternal rest on Wednesday, July 9, 2025.We extend our deepest condolences to the famil...
07/16/2025

Marks Infant Twins were born into eternal rest on Wednesday, July 9, 2025.

We extend our deepest condolences to the families of Ayden Marks and Mataya Griffith. Though their time was brief, they are forever loved and remembered.

Arrangements and care trusted to Hess Funeral Home and Cremation Services.

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Raminder Singh Gill, age 52, of Ceres, CA passed away on Sunday, July 13, 2025 in Howe, IN. Private family services will...
07/16/2025

Raminder Singh Gill, age 52, of Ceres, CA passed away on Sunday, July 13, 2025 in Howe, IN.

Private family services will take place in Troy, MI.

Arrangements trusted to Hess Funeral Home and Cremation Services.

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Danny Lee Jackson, age 78, of Huntington, IN formerly of Waynedale, Fort Wayne, IN, passed away on Saturday, June 7, 202...
06/09/2025

Danny Lee Jackson, age 78, of Huntington, IN formerly of Waynedale, Fort Wayne, IN, passed away on Saturday, June 7, 2025, surrounded by his loved ones and family. Mr. Jackson was born on June 26, 1946, in Roanoke, IN to Kenneth and Rachel (Ballard) Jackson. Danny graduated from High School in Roanoke. He served his country honorably with the United States Navy during the Vietnam Conflict. On June 24, 1966, he married his wife of 55 years Brenda Joyce Pelz. For 20 years, Danny served honorably and nobly as a Fort Wayne Police Officer. During his years in law enforcement, he worked as a detective, with the K-9 unit, with the motorcycle unit, and within the homicide unit. Danny also served diligently for 20 years as a Southwest Allen County Fire District Firefighter as well and retired as assistant chief. He enjoyed racing cars and flying model R.C. planes in his leisure. Danny was an avid golf enthusiast and absolutely loved every chance he had to play. His absolute favorite pastime that he treasured was spending quality time with his family, grandchildren, and loved ones. He was a selfless man who cared and sacrificed for others his entire life. Danny was one of the good ones.

Survivors include:
Son, Kevin (Erica) Jackson.
Son, Chad (Leah) Jackson.
Grandchildren, Tyler (Madison) Jackson, Briana Jackson, Jacob (Olivia) Jackson, and Breanna (Damian McGowan) Jackson
1 Great-Granddaughter, Mila Joyce Jackson.
Fiance, Terry Bickel
Sister, Pam Stephens.

Danny was preceded in death by his parents, wife of 55 years, Brenda Joyce Jackson, and 2 siblings: Kent Jackson and Jean Teddy.

Funeral service with military honors, police honors, and firefighter honors will be held on Friday, June 13, 2025 at 3:00pm with visitation prior from 12:00pm-3:00pm at Pathway Community Church, 1010 Carroll Road, Fort Wayne, IN 46845.

Officiating the service will be Pastor John Blair.

Services will conclude at the church and cremation will follow upon Danny’s request. Danny also requests that people not wear suits and ties and instead wear golf shirts.

Memorial donations may be directed to Elara Hospice.

Arrangements and care trusted to Hess Funeral Home and Cremation Services.

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Richard Louis Leezer, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on May 27, 2025, at the a...
05/28/2025

Richard Louis Leezer, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on May 27, 2025, at the age of 82. Born on January 16, 1943, Richard lived a full and joyful life, surrounded by the people and things he loved most.

Richard was a devoted husband whose love and loyalty served as the foundation of his family. He was the proud father of two daughters, with whom he shared countless adventures, and the adoring grandfather of three granddaughters who brought him endless pride and joy. Whether he was watching ballet recitals, exploring Disney World, Hawaii, or Alaska, or simply sharing a laugh over chocolate milk or an orange sherbert, Richard made every moment count with those he loved.

A mechanical engineer by profession, Richard retired from Philip Morris after 25 years of dedicated service. His commitment to his work continued as he served as the City Engineer for Douglas Hills for many years, where his contributions left a lasting mark on the community.

Richard had a zest for life and a spirit of adventure. He delighted in time spent boating at “The Lake” (Barren River Lake) and found wonder in nature while hiking through National Parks. A competitive spirit kept him rolling strikes at Executive Bowl alongside his league partners. His love of transportation carried over to the thrill of roller coasters and the hum of trains. A true enthusiast, he had a particular fondness for Ford Mustang convertibles, beagles, and a good crossword puzzle or sudoku.

In his later years, Richard became a cherished member of the Coventry Meadows Assisted Living community where he was surrounded by a devoted fan club of friends and caregivers who deeply valued his warmth, wit, and generous heart. His family greatly appreciates their excellent care and love.

Richard’s legacy is one of love, laughter, curiosity and kindness. He leaves behind a lifetime of beautiful memories, a family who will carry his spirit forward, and a community forever better for having known him. He will be missed dearly and remembered always.

He is survived by his wife, Sharon; daughters, Janet Leezer and Jennifer (Leezer) DesErmia; sons-in-law, Todd Opacinch and Kirk DesErmia; granddaughters, Maddie Opacinch, Makena DesErmia and Kirra DesErmia.

A celebration of Richard's life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Fort Wayne Zoo (www.fwzoo.com) and the Alaska SeaLife Center (www.alaskasealife.org) in honor of Richard’s love for nature and animals.

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Cindy Kay Hydorn, age 64, of Wolcottville, IN passed away on Saturday, May 24, 2025 at her residence.  Ms. Hydorn was bo...
05/27/2025

Cindy Kay Hydorn, age 64, of Wolcottville, IN passed away on Saturday, May 24, 2025 at her residence. Ms. Hydorn was born on June 15, 1960 in Goshen, IN to the late Burton and Sandra K. (LeCount) Mahler. Upon completion of high school, she continued her education where she obtained a bachelor’s degree. She worked as a cabinet builder within the manufacturing industry. Cindy enjoyed quilting in her leisure, camping, and spending quality time with her family and grandchildren.

Survivors include:
Son, Toni Grice.
Son, Matthew and Jenny Grice.
Daughter, Sam and Dave Phipps.
Son, Cody and Hayliegh Tuttle.
Son, Kevin Tuttle.
Grandchildren, Tye Grice, Trew Grice, Jaylee Fugate, Leona Fugate, Logan Phipps, Gavin Grice, Ruby Grice, Avileigh Grice, Hadleigh Sauceda, Houston Tuttle, Nate Tuttle, and Skyler Grice.
Sister, Cindy and Dan Coffman.
Sister, Lisa and Thomas McKee.
Sister, Carmen and Carlos Sanchez.
Brother, Melvin Mahler.
Brother, Terry Mahler.
Brother, Mark and Linda Mahler.
Sister, Sandra Stewart.
Also surviving are Jimmy, Annie, Mindy, Rose, Roy, Jamie, Maynard, and Tonya.
As well as many other great-grandchildren, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins.

There are no services scheduled at this time and cremation will take place upon Cindy’s wishes.

Arrangements and care trusted to Hess Funeral Home and Cremation Services

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Janette Lynn Taylor, age 75, of LaGrange, IN, passed away on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, at her residence.  Mrs. Taylor was...
05/22/2025

Janette Lynn Taylor, age 75, of LaGrange, IN, passed away on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, at her residence. Mrs. Taylor was born on August 12, 1949, in Tyronza, AR to the late Woodrow and Louise (Shook) Russell. On December 18, 1976, she married Ronnie Taylor in LaGrange, IN. Janette was a loving wife, mother, and homemaker. She was a woman of devout faith and a previous member of the Green Chapel Church in rural Wolcottville, IN. Her faith led her to become a member of a gospel group at church that she truly loved being involved with. She enjoyed playing her guitar, singing, and listening to music. Janette was also skilled with painting and drawing. She loved her family, children, grandchildren, and will be missed by those who knew her.

Survivors include:
Spouse, Ronnie Taylor of LaGrange, IN.
Sister, Betty Ray of Arkansas.
Sister, Maureen Hawkins of Howe, IN.
Sister, Pat Taylor of Howe, IN.
Sister, Robin and Jim Sparrow of LaGrange, IN.
Son, Robert and Rose-Ann Thomason of LaGrange, IN.
5 Grandchildren, Michelle D. Benedict, Sarah Lynn Thomason, Anthony Thomason, Austin (Brittany Vore) Thomason, and Allison Thomason.
3 Great-grandchildren, Cohen Thomason, Dane Roger Thomason, and Paisely Thomason.
Many nieces and nephews also survive.

Janette was preceded in death by her parents, first husband and father of her children, Robert George Thomason, son, Roger Thomason, and siblings; Olene Smithson, Sonny Russell, Roger Russell, and a daughter-in-law, Deidra Thomason.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, May 24, 2025, at 1:00pm with calling one hour prior from 12:00pm-1:00pm at Hess Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 603 South Detroit Street, LaGrange, IN 46761.

Burial will take place following the funeral service at Greenwood Cemetery in LaGrange, IN.

Officiating the services will be Pastor Jamie Owens.

Memorial donations may be directed to the donor's choice.

Arrangements and care trusted to Hess Funeral Home and Cremation Services.

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Roy Smith, age 73, of Mongo, IN passed away on Tuesday, May 20, 2025 at Parkview Regional Medical Center in Fort Wayne, ...
05/22/2025

Roy Smith, age 73, of Mongo, IN passed away on Tuesday, May 20, 2025 at Parkview Regional Medical Center in Fort Wayne, IN. Mr. Smith was born on January 29, 1952 to the late Joseph and Gertrude (Beverly) Smith. After completing his High School education, he then continued his education and earned an associate’s degree. On April 9, 1977, he married his wife Patricia in Clintwood, VA. Roy retired from Starcraft after many years of dedicated employment. In 2009, Roy was baptized into Christ and devoted himself to the Lord’s word. He attended Church of the True God in South Milford, IN. Roy loved singing, playing the guitar, and he even wrote some of his own music in his younger years. He also enjoyed working on small engines, lawn mowers, and tinkering. Roy was extremely family oriented, loved spending time with his loved ones, and was a true follower of Christ. He will be missed by those who knew him and loved him.

Survivors include:
Wife, Patricia Smith of Mongo, IN.
Brother, Truman “Herman” (Charlene) Smith of LaGrange, IN.
Brother, Gary Smith of Convoy, OH.
Brother, Larry (Arlene) Smith of LaGrange, IN.
Sister-in-law, Shirley Smith of Sturgis, MI.
Brother-in-law, Merle Dettrow of VanWert, OH.
A multitude of nieces and nephews.

Roy was preceded in death by his parents, Siblings; Thurman Smith, Sherman Smith, Meletha Fields, Dorothy Dettrow, and Aaron Smith.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, May 27, 2025 from 4:00pm-8:00pm at Church of the True God, 5685 South State Road 3, Wolcottville, IN 46795.

Funeral service will be held on Wednesday, May 28, 2025 at 11:00am with visitation 1 hour prior from 10:00am-11:00am at Church of the True God, 5685 South State Road 3, Wolcottville, IN 46795.

Burial will take place at Ontario Cemetery in Rural Howe, IN.

Officiating the services will be Pastor Kenneth Beverly with Church of the True God.

Memorial donations may be directed to the family for final expenses.

Arrangements and care trusted to Hess Funeral Home and Cremation Services.

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Franklin “Frank” L. Marsh, age 73, of Howe, IN passed away on Thursday, May 15, 2025 at his residence.  Mr. Marsh was bo...
05/17/2025

Franklin “Frank” L. Marsh, age 73, of Howe, IN passed away on Thursday, May 15, 2025 at his residence. Mr. Marsh was born on November 30, 1951 in Coldwater, MI to the late Herman Dale and Carlene Patsy (Collyer) Marsh. He graduated High School in Akron, IN then served his country with the United States Marine Corp. On May 27, 2000, he married the love of his life, truck driving companion, and best friend, Karen A. Long in Elkhart, IN. For countless years, Frank was a self-employed Truck Driver. He also worked within the RV industry for many years as a laborer, supervisor, and later within management. Frank’s main hobby was his work life but, in his leisure, he enjoyed fishing, mowing, tending to his self-made pond as well as the goldfish and Koi fish he raised, and spending time with friends. Frank enjoyed watching football. He also was a car enthusiast, enjoyed drag racing, and liked NASCAR as well. Frank had an enormous heart and absolutely loved animals. He enjoyed spending all the quality time he could with his wife, family, and friends. He will be deeply missed by those who knew him.

Survivors include:
Spouse, Karen Marsh of Howe, IN.
Son, Shane Marsh of Florida.
Granddaughter, Shanelle and Jordan Roberts of Mississippi.
Grandson, Dakota Marsh of Florida.
Great-grandson, Ryder Roberts of Mississippi.
Sister, Denise and Dan Mason of Maryville, TN.
Brother, Robert Marsh of LaGrange, IN.

Frank was preceded in death by hiss parents and sister, Debra Pazuchanics.

There are no services scheduled at this time and cremation will take place upon Frank’s wishes.

Arrangements and care trusted to Hess Funeral Home and Cremation Services.

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Linda A. Eaton, 83, passed away peacefully at her residence on May 12, 2025. She was born on March 11, 1942, to Otto and...
05/14/2025

Linda A. Eaton, 83, passed away peacefully at her residence on May 12, 2025. She was born on March 11, 1942, to Otto and Marie (Smith) Willms in Orland, Indiana, where she remained a lifelong resident.

Linda married the love of her life, Daniel Eaton, on March 12, 1960, and together they shared many adventures and loved to travel. Among their most cherished memories was a trip to Hawaii, a destination she had always dreamed of visiting.

An avid reader, Linda enjoyed her daily crossword puzzles, playing Yahtzee, and playing card games with her family and friends. She also loved fishing at Wall Lake, which also supplied her with many humorous moments.

Linda was an active member of Orland Methodist Church, where she found both spiritual comfort and a sense of community. Her group of close girlfriends was a constant source of support and joy in her life. Weekly Euchre games, outings to local restaurants, and countless gatherings filled Linda’s life with laughter and love.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Danny; her son, Michael A. Eaton; her daughter, Judy Courtwright; her parents; and seven siblings.

Linda leaves behind her son, Michael G. (Kathy) Eaton; three granddaughters, Elena Elswick, Samanta Smith, and Angela Kimmel; one grandson, Jeremy Avery; nine great-grandchildren; and four great-great-grandchildren.

As per her wishes, Linda will be cremated, and a graveside service followed by a luncheon will be held on Saturday, June 28, 2025 at 1:00pm at Greenlawn Cemetery in Orland, IN.

Linda’s kind heart, sharp mind, sense of humor, and unwavering devotion to her family and friends will be deeply missed by all who knew her. May she rest in peace.

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Happy Mother’s Day to all the amazing people who fulfill the title “Mom.”  We appreciate you more than you will ever kno...
05/11/2025

Happy Mother’s Day to all the amazing people who fulfill the title “Mom.” We appreciate you more than you will ever know. ❤️🌸🌺🙏

Brian “Hog” L. Sizemore, age 64, of Howe, IN passed away on May 5, 2025 at Parkview Regional Medical Center in Fort Wayn...
05/07/2025

Brian “Hog” L. Sizemore, age 64, of Howe, IN passed away on May 5, 2025 at Parkview Regional Medical Center in Fort Wayne, IN. Mr. Sizemore was born on March 13, 1961 in LaGrange, IN to the late William “Bill” and Ruby Jewel (Coburn) Sizemore. He attended Prairie Heights High School and then served his country honorably with the United States Army. He retired from the RV Manufacturing industry after 40 years of dedicated service. Brian was a true outdoorsman and enjoyed the relaxation of fishing, the thrill of hunting, campfires, and playing golf. He was an avid Kentucky Wildcats and Minnesota Vikings fan. Known as “Hog” by his family, friends, and loved ones, he absolutely loved the peace when cruising around on his Harley. Brian loved to make people laugh, he didn’t know a stranger, and was known as the one who could light up any room he entered. He usually would greet you with a “Heyyy” or a “Heyyy baby girl” when he would see someone he knew. Above all, Brian loved his family, grandchildren, and his old canine companion “Mable.”

Survivors include:
Daughter, Stacy and Brett Smith of Angola, IN.
Daughter, Heather and Ryan Goudy of Avon, IN.
Daughter, Britany Fair of Avilla, IN.
Grandchildren, Aliyah Smith, Adilyn Smith, Kaylei Carlson, Ava Carlson, and Rory Carlson.
Brother, Bart Sizemore of Stroh, IN.
Sister, Pamela Sizemore of Ashley, IN.
Brother, Bruce Sizemore of Stroh, IN.
Sister-in-law, Helen Sizemore of Rome City, IN.
Also surviving are several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, grandson, Riley Carlson, siblings; Bradley Sizemore, Tammy Rasler, and a half-brother, Ed Sawyer.

A Celebration of life will be held and updated at a later date.

In lieu of flowers and or planting a tree, memorial donations may be directed to the family for final expenses. (Checks made payable to Stacy Lynn Smith)

Arrangements and care trusted to Hess Funeral Home and Cremation Services.

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Lagrange, IN

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