Illustrious Sir William B. Plier, PP
August 12, 1930 - January 9, 2021
Potentate of Moslem Shrine - Southfield, Michigan in 1991
Illus. Sir William (Bill) Plier PP, age 90, died peacefully on January 9, 2021 and is now forever jitterbugging with his beloved wife Carole. He lived an amazing 90 years, born in Oconto Falls, Wisconsin and spending most of his years in Wausau and Milwaukee before moving to Birmingham/Bloomfield, Michigan (but always a Packer Backer). He is survived by his sister Meredith Clark, 94; daughters Marsha Swayze (Paul) of Berkley and Ginger Gorski (Phil) of Manistee; grandchildren Ben Swayze (Kara), Patrick Swayze (Kelly}, Joe Gorski and Sarah Gorski; niece Meriweather Clark-Connor and nephews Jim Clark and Alan Batten; and six great-grandchildren. Bill will be joining his wife Carole at the Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly, as a veteran of the Korean War.
He was a long time General Motors human resources executive (AC Spark Plug and Detroit Diesel Allison) before becoming a labor relation consultant for several years after. His passion for helping others and community service was evident through his life-time involvement with the Boy Scouts, reaching Eagle Scout status and serving as an Explorer Scout business advisor; Jaycees and village trustee activities in Greendale, Wisconsin; and most importantly his work with the Masons and Shriners, including serving on the Shriners Hospital Board in Chicago, serving as the Moslem Shrine Potentate, and belonging to the Royal Order of Jesters. He was also on the Board of the Murco Foundation which provided charitable grants in Wausau, established through his father’s affiliation with Murray Machinery, a lumber mill equipment company. He was also a long-time member of the First United Methodist Church of Birmingham and a graduate of Carroll University.
Always a kind word for everyone to make them feel special – we will forever hear his lines – “if I was your boss I’d give you a raise” and when asked how he was the response would often be – “better now that I’m with you” or “better than yesterday but not as good as tomorrow”.
In lieu of flowers donations to Shriners Hospitals for Children would be appreciated. The family will be making memorial arrangements in the near future.
The shining sun may kiss the sky, the clouds may kiss the butterfly, the sparkling wine may kiss the glass and you my friend - our one and only Bill – may you live in our hearts forever.
Illustrious Sir Ronald J. Harruff, PP
July 13, 1937 – January 23, 2021
Potentate of Mizpah Shrine - Fort Wayne, Indiana in 1992
Illus. Sir Ronald J Harruff, 33°, PP 83, of Fort Wayne passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, January 23, 2021. Ron was born in Marion, Ohio on July 13, 1937 to Cecil and Hazel Harruff. Ron retired from Insurance & Risk Management in 2002 as a managing partner.
He was also Past Potentate of the Mizpah Shrine, and also Recorder. He was also the TPM of the Fort Wayne Valley in 1997-98 and was coroneted in 1999. He was active on a national level serving on many boards with Shriners International. He was active in all Masonic Bodies both local and nationally. He was also a lifelong Ohio State fan.
He is survived by his loving wife, Elizabeth “Betty”; son, Brian; daughter, Cindy (Jim) Collins of Indianapolis; two grandchildren, Taylor (Mike May) of Indianapolis and Colin (Jhayla); great granddaughters, Blakely and Myka of Indianapolis. Ron was proceeded in death by his parents; sister, Norma; and twin brother, Donald. Internment was at Greenlawn Memorial Park. A private family service has already been held. Memorials can be made to the Mizpah Shrine Transportation Fund, 1015A Memorial Way, Fort Wayne, IN 46805, or to the donor’s preferred cause. Greenlawn Funeral Home, Fort Wayne handled arrangements.
Illustrious Sir Barney James Adkins, PP
Approximately 1914 - January 24, 2021
Potentate of Mohammed Shrine - Bartonville, Illinois in 1991
Illus. Sir Barney James Adkins, PP, age 96, originally from Peoria, IL, and most recently from Peoria, AZ, passed away due to complications from Covid 19 on Sunday, January 24, 2021.
He was preceded in death by his wife of 65 years, Alice Marie Adkins (Wombachaer).
He is survived by his two sons, Ricky J. Adkins of Dayton, OH, and his wife, Melinda P. Adkins (Prevish), and Michael J. Adkins of Scottsdale, AZ, and his wife, Cathy M. Adkins (Anderson); along with grandchildren, Bradley M. Adkins and Brittany M. Adkins (Santoro) and her husband, Bobby, all of the Phoenix, AZ, area.
Barney was a graduate of Woodruff High School. He Served in the Army Air Corp during World War II and was honorably discharged in early 1946. He returned and took engineering classes at Bradley University. Soon after, he began a career as a Civil Engineer with the City of Peoria. Barney was a long-time member of the Masons and the Shrine. He rose to the honorable title of Potentate of Mohammed Temple in Peoria. One of his greatest joys was being Circus Chairman for that organization. Upon his retirement, he and Alice would spend their winters in Ft. Myers, FL.
A future memorial service is to be determined.
Illustrious Sir John “Jack” W. Storey, PP
May 22, 1927 – February 27, 2021
Potentate of Zenobia Shrine - Perrysburg, Ohio in 1991
Zenobia recently lost a fine Mason and Shriner. Ill. Sir John “Jack” W. Storey was called to the celestial lodge on Saturday, February 27, 2021. Jack served as the 1991 Potentate of Zenobia. He was born in Charlotte town, Prince Edward Island, Canada, on May 22, 1927 and moved to Toledo in 1947 to work at Motor Rebuilders and Parts, of which he later became the owner and CEO. In 1948 he met Virginia Heft and they married on June 26, 1954. John be came a U.S. citizen in 1956. He served in the U.S. Army from 1952-54 as a paratrooper.
Jack became a Master Mason on October 14, 1948 at Triad Lodge #708, which later merged with Barton Smith Lodge #613, where Storey received his 70-year recognition pin. He was a member of Ft. Meigs Chapter, Toledo Council and Toledo Commandery, joined the Scottish Rite, Valley of Toledo in 1967 and the Shrine in 1969. He served as the Fostoria Shrine Club Ambassador, assistant director of the Di rectors Staff, ticket chairman for New Year’s Party and Potentate’s Ball, and the housing chairman for GLSA held in Toledo in 1982. Storey began his leadership role as a Divan member in 1985, when appointed by Ill. Sir James Teague, then in 1991 served as the Zenobia Potentate. Following this role, he could be seen with a camera around his neck photographing people having fun at the many activities.
We express our sympathy to his lady, Ginny, and his family.
Ill. Sir Storey will be remembered as a good Mason, a contributor and leader in the Zenobia Shrine. Well done … good and faithful servant, enter now into the joy of your Lord.
Illustrious Sir Robert E. Secoy, PP
March 6, 1947 – April 14, 2021
Potentate of Zenobia Shrine - Perrysburg, Ohio in 2011
The love of Susan Secoy's life, Robert E. Secoy, 74, of Defiance, passed peacefully to his heavenly home on April 14, 2021 at CHP Defiance Area Inpatient Hospice Center following an extended battle with Leukemia.
He was born on March 6, 1947 to Edwin and Zita (Moore) Secoy in Athens, Ohio. He married Susan Newsom on September 14, 1969 and they welcome their son, Randall E. in 1971.
Together Bob and Sue hosted multiple exchange students from Denmark, Finland, France, Spain and Norway through the years. They kept in touch with the students and can claim eight exchange grandchildren.
Bob was a city policeman for the city of Athens, Marietta and Bryan as well as working for the Washington Co. Sheriff Department. He then became an investigator for the prosecutor's office in Bryan and then was an investigator of the Defiance County Coroner's Office. He was the president and lieutenant governor of the Bryan Kiwanis. Bob was a member of the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Mason of Ohio, Lodge #215. He served as a member of the Shrine holding the office of Potentate, Northwest Shrine, Legion of Honor, American Legion of Bryan and West Unity and Legion 40-8.
Robert is survived by his loving spouse of 51 years, Sue and his son, Randy Secoy of Canal Winchester, Ohio. Also surviving are his precious, beautiful granddaughters, Elizabeth Secoy and Emily Secoy as well as an awesome great-grandson, Cameron Secoy. Bob leaves behind one sister, Deanna (Paul) Jellison of Wilmington, Ohio, 17 nieces and nephews and 21 great-nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by parents; brother, Kenneth Secoy and sister, Donna Masters.
Visitation will be held Sunday, April 18, 2021 from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm at Sonrise Church, corner of US 127 and St. Rt. 249, Ney, Ohio. Funeral Services will follow at 2:00 pm at the church. with Revs James and Tonya Kelly officiating. Due to the pandemic, masks and social distancing are required for all services.
Schaffer Funeral Home was honored to assist with the arrangements.
Illustrious Sir Bill Parker, PP
March 18, 1929 – April 28, 2021
Potentate of Ainad Shrine - East St. Louis, Illinois in 1983
Bill Parker, 92, of Bonita Springs, Florida, passed away April 28, 2021. Bill was a well-known former Fairfield, Illinois resident for many years. At age 13 he began working in the oil field, which led to his life-long career in the crude oil business.
He was born on March 18, 1929, in Wayne City, Illinois to Marlin and Anna (Dillinder) Parker. He married Anita Wesiemann on May 1,1976.
He was a devoted Shriner, having become Potentate of Ainad Shrine Temple in 1983.
Bill is survived by his wife Anita of Bonita Springs, Florida: one daughter, Billye (Larry) Green. one grandson, Kelle Green: one great-granddaughter, Holly Green, all of Lebanon Ill.; one brother, Dean Parker of Wayne City; and a host of nieces and nephews.
Preceding him in death were his parents: one brother, Bobby Parker, sisters: Martell Donoho, DeKalb, Ill.; Miriam Draper, Columbia. 1:11; and Ann Theofanopoulos, Fairfield. Ill.
Funeral Services Pending. Services for Bill will be held at a later date.
Illustrious Sir Crinley D. Hoover, PP
September 12, 1940 – May 6, 2021
Potentate of Tadmor Shrine - Akron, Ohio in 1996
Crinley D. Hoover, age 80, of North Topsail Beach, NC, formerly of Alliance, passed away on May 6, 2021.
He was born on September 12, 1940 in Orrville, OH to Charles Hoover and Ella (Sanderson) Hoover.
Crinley was a member of the Homeworth Masonic Lodge, the Scottish Rite of Canton, Alliance Shrine Club, Alliance Flag and Gojo Unit, and the Elks Lodge. He was also a Past Potentate of Tadmor Shrine of Akron and a Past Master of Homeworth Masonic Lodge #499. Crinley enjoyed golfing, hunting, fishing and spending time with family and friends. He served honorably in United State Navy.
Those left to cherish his memory are his wife, Katherine E. (Scott) Hoover whom he married on December 13, 1963; his son, Col. Retired C. Scott (Laura) Hoover of Burke, VA; his daughter, Cindy S. (Brian) Wisbith; his grandchildren, Faith Hoover, Nathaniel Wisbith and Claire Hoover; siblings, Charles (Mary) Hoover II, M.Kay Sendrey, Connie E. (Bill) Jordan, Dolly D. (Dan) Atkinson; an 28 nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and brother-in-law, George Sendrey.
Homeworth Masonic Lodge 499 will conduct Masonic services at Cassaday-Turkle-Christian Funeral Home on Wednesday, May 12th at 5:00 p.m. with a Jestor Service at 5:30. Visitation will follow from 6:00-9:00 p.m. A chapel service will be held at Fairmount Memorial Park on Thursday, May 13th at 10:00 a.m.
Arrangements are entrusted to Cassaday-Turkle-Christian Funeral Home 75 South Union Ave Alliance, Ohio 44601.
Illustrious Sir Burt A. Polk, PP
April 25, 1934 - June 4, 2021
Potentate of Medinah Shrine - Addison, Illinois in 1986
Burt A. Polk, PP, 87, of Elmhurst, Illinois, passed away Friday, June 4, 2021. He was born April 25, 1934, in Melrose Park, Illinois, to Egbert and Gertrude (nee Techner) Polk.
Burt is survived by his wife Helen (nee Vraneck) Polk, his children Sharon (Tim) Callard and Glenn (Nadine) Polk, and his grandchildren Morgan and Riley Callard. He is preceded in death by his parents and siblings Marvin (Doris) Polk and Arlene (Mel) Nauertz.
Burt was a 33rd degree mason Shriner and was very active in the Elm Clare lodge and Shriner events. He was the Potentate of Medinah Temple in 1986. He served many years on the board of Shriners Hospital helping countless children with medical needs.
Memorial Service for Park Place residents and family is Friday, June 11, 2021, at 10 am, in the dining room at Park Place of Elmhurst, 1050 S. Euclid Avenue, Elmhurst, Illinois.
Memorial contributions may be made to Shriner’s Hospitals for Children – Chicago at https://donate.lovetotherescue.org/give/119312/#!/donation/checkout
Illustrious Sir R. Donald Edwards, PP
July 29th, 1930 - June 15, 2021
Potentate of Murat Shrine - Indianapolis, Indiana in 1974
Father's Day ain't gonna be the same without ya pop.
Don / Dad passed away peacefully, after a long and fulfilling life, in the early morning hours of June 15th. Dad was born in Indianapolis on July 29th, 1930 to Clyde and Elsie Edwards and grew up in the Haughville section of the city. Dad attended Washington High School and Butler University and was both a very proud Continental as well as Bulldog all of his life.
Don married Virginia Louise King on March 16th, 1952 and they shared many, many happy moments during their 69 years of marriage. Their marriage spawned two children Caron (Mike) Goldenberg and Greg (Doris) Edwards.
Don Edwards did not know a stranger. Everyone he met became more than acquaintance and often a close friend. He was a walking, talking Mardi Gras.
Dad enjoyed an almost 50-year banking career with Indiana National Bank starting as a teller and retiring as an executive in branch management. He and mom met at the bank and the rest is history.
In addition to Washington High School and Butler University basketball Dad was a big fan of the Indianapolis Colts. He would often be seen, and especially heard, enjoying both Butler and the Colts on TV. In addition, Dad could often be found at his beloved Highland Country Club playing a round of golf with close friends, of which he had many.
Dad was proud of his Masonic membership and was a very active Mason. Dad's Masonic career was highlighted by his tenure as Potentate of Murat Shrine in 1974 and many years as Murat Treasurer subsequent to that. Mom and Dad enjoyed a very active social life as a result of Murat Shrine and Highland Country Club.
In Dad's later years he could be found most mornings, at 7:30 sharp, at the Donut Shop on north Keystone Avenue. He loved his Donut Shop family and enjoyed many a spirited political discussion with his buddies over breakfast.
Don was pre-deceased by his parents, Isaac Clyde Edwards, Sr. and Elsie (Marple) Edwards, his brother Clyde Jr. (Mildred), and his awesome son in law Mike Goldenberg. Dad is survived by daughter Caron Goldenberg, son Greg (Doris), granddaughters Sophie and Grace Goldenberg, grandsons Lloyd Edwards (fiancée Taylor Stevens), Wesley (Rachel) Edwards, Henry (Meghan) Edwards, great grandchildren Anthony, Aengus, and Brooklyn Edwards, his beloved dog Molly, and countless other relatives and friends.
Dad's family would like to sincerely thank the staff of Hoosier Village Retirement Community, especially nurse Antoinette, for the loving care provided him during his brief rehabilitation stay.
A small graveside family service was held at Washington Park North mausoleum on Saturday. A celebration of Dad's life will be held at a later date in the relatively near future. In lieu of flowers the family would ask that memorial contributions in Don's name be made to any of the following:
The Michael Goldenberg Education Fund @ Temple Israel Akron, 91 Springside Drive, Akron 44333
The Elias J Jacoby Historical Foundation Building Foundation
Murat Building Fund, 510 North New Jersey Street, Indianapolis, IN 46204
Highland Golf & Country Club Foundation, 1050 West 52nd Street, Indianapolis, IN 46228
Arrangements entrusted to Flanner Buchanan-Washington Park North.
Illustrious Sir Eldon O. Paul, PP
Feb. 19, 1931 - July 22, 2021
Potentate of Mizpah Shrine - Fort Wayne, Indiana in 1993
Eldon O. Paul, 90, of Huntington, IN, passed away on Thursday, July 22, 2021, at Heritage Pointe of Huntington.
Eldon was born on Feb. 19, 1931, in Detroit, MI, to Otto and Louise (Schenkel) Paul. His parents preceded him in death. Eldon married Kathryn Close in 1955 and she preceded him in death in 1995. Eldon then married Jacqueline (Hentze) Etter in 1997. She survives and resides in Huntington.
Eldon was a 1948 graduate of Roanoke High School and served in the United States Air Force. He was a retired farmer and rural mail carrier. He was past Potentate for the Shriner's, Exalted Ruler of the Elks Lodge, a member of the Masonic Lodge in Roanoke and the American Legion Post 160 in Roanoke. His favorite part of being a Shriner was the circus and horse patrol.
Along with his wife, Jacqueline, Eldon is survived by one daughter, Kimberly Payne, Huntington, IN; two step-sons, John Etter, Jeff (Ann) Etter; one step-daughter, Ginny Etter, all of Huntington. He is also survived by one sister, Eileen Ambriole, Huntington; two grandchildren, Andrew and Aaron Paul; 7 step grandchildren; and several great and step-great grandchildren.
Along with his parents and first wife, he was preceded in death by one son, John Paul.
A Gathering of Family and Friends will be held on Wednesday, July 28, 2021, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. followed by a Masonic Service at 7:00 p.m., at McElhaney-Hart Funeral Home, 715 N. Jefferson Street, Huntington, IN.
A private burial at Glenwood Cemetery, Roanoke, IN, will be at a later date.
In lieu of flowers memorials can be made to Shriners Hospitals for Children or another organization of your choice in care of McElhaney-Hart Funeral Home, 715 N. Jefferson Street, Huntington, IN.
McElhaney-Hart Funeral Home, 715 N. Jefferson St. Huntington, IN. is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences: www.mcelhaney hartfuneralhome.com.
Illustrious Sir Wayne Howard Bentz, PP
April 18, 1928 - August 9, 2021
Potentate of Mizpah Shrine - Fort Wayne, Indiana in 2003
Wayne Howard Bentz, 93, of Huntington, passed away at 11:40 am Monday, Aug. 9, 2021 at Englewood Health & Rehabilitation Center, Ft. Wayne, IN.
Wayne was born on April 18, 1928 in Fort Wayne, IN, the son of J. Howard Bentz and Flo (VanArsdol) Bentz. He graduated from Roanoke High in 1946 and married Barbara J. Allman on June 27, 1948 in Roanoke, IN. She preceded him in death on Aug. 20, 2014. He retired from Bentz Construction in 1994 as a Contractor, was a Lifetime Farmer, and was the Owner of Bentz Shootery Trap and Skeet Range in Clear Creek Township for 20 years. Wayne was a 70 year member of the Roanoke Masonic Lodge #195 where he was the Past Worshipful Master in 1959, member of the Scottish Rite Valley of Fort Wayne where he received the M.S.A, member of the Mizpah Shrine in Fort Wayne, was Past Potentate in 2003, was Past President and developer of the Oak Park Subdivision, and was a member of Seminary United Methodist Church in Roanoke.
Survivors include his Son, Samuel W. (Joyce) Bentz of Huntington, IN; Two Daughters, Sally M. Hartman of Huntington, IN, Beverly J. (Toby) Hullinger of Monroeville, IN; Sister, Diann (John) Cartwright of Fort Wayne, IN; Seven Grandchildren; Ten Great Grandchildren; One Great-Great Grandson; Five Step-grandchildren; and Eight Step-Great Grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his Wife, Barbara J. Bentz, Brother, James L. Bentz, Father, J. Howard Bentz, and Mother, Flo Bentz.
Burial will be in Glenwood Cemetery in Roanoke.
Preferred memorials to the Shriners Hospitals for Children, in care of Bailey-Love Mortuary, 35 West Park Drive, Huntington, IN, 46750.
Please sign the online guest book at www.baileylove.com.
Bailey-Love Mortuary is honored to serve the family of Wayne Howard Bentz.
Illustrious Sir Richard J, Bowers, PP
September 13, 1930 – August 16, 2021
Potentate of Tebala Shrine - Rockford, Illinois in 2000
Richard Joseph Bowers, 90, of Rockford passed away August 16, 2021. Born in Rockford September 13, 1930. Son of John & Constance (Keye) Bowers. Attended Rockford Schools, in the US Army, married Mona Bowers 1950, had four children. Started his own business Majestic Heating Company in 1950, owned Richard J Bowers Company, HVAC contractor till 1983. Owned Sky Room Restaurant. In 1984 started his retirement business RJ Bowers Distributors, Inc. selling commercial equipment.
Married Judith A Jessup in 1985 and enjoyed 37 years of traveling and working together each day. Richard was a member of Tebala Shrine, Tebala Past Potentate 2000. Valley of Freeport Scottish rite, Masonic Lodge 102, member of Air Squadron, Horse Patrol, Ogle County & Rockford Shrine Clubs, Member of ROJ Jesters Court 69, Past Director of Jesters. Lifetime member of EAA, Member of Rockford Quiet Birdman and CETA. Richard enjoyed working, many say he failed only one thing Retirement. His love for airplanes, cars and traveling took him all over the world. Richard traveled the world winning many trips through selling.
He drove race cars, love cars, loved to fly and has 3800 hours as pilot in command. Owned an American T-6 in the late 1970’s, flew in many air shows and loved to fly upside down.
Many years ago, 3 planes flying in to Rockford were cleared to land as the Polish Air Force. The Polish Airforce of Rockford was formed, Richard was Polish Airforce No. 3. The Polish Airforce liberated Wausau, Indiana many times.
Know one’s life can be summed up in a few words. Richard lived life to the fullest and would never ask you to something he would not do himself. He was proud of his achievements and always believed in luck, some would say he was a lucky man. As a friend said, Richard was a Man’s man. He believed if you work every day at 100% you would be successful. Richard was both successful and lucky. Richard was a gentleman, smart, and there was nothing he could not do. Member of CETA since 1985, A CETA Certified Distributor, CETA Distinguished Service Award 2013, CETA Security for Women of CETA; Private Pilot, Single Engine Land & Sea & Multi-engine Land, A Member & Founder of the Polish Air Force (Member # 3), EAA Lifetime Member, EAA-Frank Murray Memorial Award Feb 1974, 1970 – 1985 Volunteered & Flew in many EAA Air Shows; Member of Rockford QB – Quiet Birdman for over 45 years, Given an award for EAA Service & Dedication 1971, 1977, 1979, 1981; Boy Scouts of America – Scouter’s Key Award 1967; Master Mason, Member of Scottish Rite, Past Potentate of Tebala Temple in 2000, In Gold Book Society of Shriners Hospitals for Children; Had a Associates Degree in Engineering, was A HVAC Dealer for 35 years & holds a HVAC Mechanical License, owning, RJ Bowers Distributors, Inc – Selling Commercial Cleaning Equipment – 35 Years, was one of Karcher 10 Top Dealer for over 35 Years.
Survivors, wife, Judy, children: Christine Bowers, Conni Fuller, Richard & Maxine Bowers Jr and Robbin & Kathy Bowers. Grandchildren: Melissa Fuller, Charles & Tracie Fuller Jr, David & Bobbi Bowers, Amanda Bowers & Ryan Motlock. Tiffany Newcomer, Robbin Bowers Jr, Daniel Bowers. 9 Great Grandchildren, his cats, Lola & Jinxy and Grand dogs Rainin & Promise. And the Old Farts Lunch Gang Joe, Jack, Gene & Art.
Visitation Thursday, August 19, 2021, 4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. followed by Masonic Services at 7:00 p.m. at Anderson-Long-Klontz Funeral Home, 6825 Weaver Rd, Rockford, IL 61114 and a visitation Friday, August 20, 2021 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. followed by Services at 11:00, a.m. at the funeral home. Rev. Davis Smith, Pastor of Belvidere 1st Assembly Church, Officiating. Burial in The Harlem Cemetery, North Alpine & Harlem Roads donation to Shriner Hospitals, in Richard's memory. A luncheon will follow the funeral service at the Tebala Event Center, 7910 Newburg Road Rockford, IL.
Illustrious Sir Robert “Bob” Eugene Tolley, PP
November 28, 1937 – September 19, 2021
Potentate of Orak Shrine - Michigan City, Indiana in 1997
NOVI, MICHIGAN / ST. JOHN, IN – Robert “Bob” Eugene Tolley, age 83, peacefully passed away on Sunday, September 19, 2021. ob was born November 28, 1937 in Hammond, IN and was a 1955 graduate of Thornton Fractional High School in Calumet City, IL. He and Jackie were united in marriage on August 10, 1957 at St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church in Lansing, IL. They were soon off to Purdue, where he received his bachelor of science and master of science in Mechanical Engineering in 1962 and 1963, respectively, and was invited to be part of the honorary academic fraternities of Tau Beta Pi and Pi Tau Sigma.
After a brief stint at Olin Mathieson, Winchester Western Division, Bob worked for Calumet Machine & Welding, Inc., becoming President and CEO. In “retirement,” Bob remained active, consulting on many projects including the expansion of an oil re-refinery well into his 70s.
Bob was always active in the community, serving on the volunteer fire department, the civil defense, as well as part of the police commission. He was a freemason since 1960, serving as Worshipful Master of the Gary Lodge in 2001 and, later, at San Gabriel Lodge. He was an active Shriner, serving as Potentate of Orak Temple in 1997, and later became a member of Ben Hur Temple in Austin, TX. He was President of Woodmar Country Club in 1992, and a long-time board member of American Community Bank of Indiana.
Bob thrived being around friends and family, maintaining life-long friendships from his time in northwest Indiana at Purdue and in Georgetown, TX where he and Jackie retired. Over his lifetime, he was a master machinist, trained welder, an avid golfer, fisherman, hunter, pilot and motorcycle rider. He was a loving husband, father and friend, and will be missed by all whose lives he touched.
He is preceded in death by his wife of 62 years, Jacqueline Ann (nee Weitemeyer) Tolley; parents, Robert Henry Tolley, Jr. and Verna Virginia (nee Sloan) Tolley; brother, Neal Kennenwood Tolley; son, Craig Dean Tolley; and daughter, Laura Ann Tolley.
He is survived by his son, Brad (Julie) of Northville, MI; nieces, Lynn, Jana, Sheri, Carie, Teri and their families, and a host of many dear friends.
Friends are invited to meet with the family on Thursday, September 23rd from 3:00-7:00 PM at the funeral home. Funeral Services will be held on Friday, September 24, 2021 at 10:00 AM at Chapel Lawn Funeral Home, located at 8178 Cline Avenue, Crown Point, IN. Interment to follow at Chapel Lawn Memorial Gardens, Crown Point, IN.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Shriners Hospitals for Children (https://www.shrinershospitalsforchildren.org/shc/ways-to-give1). Online condolences may be left at chapellawnfunerals.com.
Illustrious Sir Michael Stephen Stader, PP
February 11, 1942 - December 23, 2021
Potentate of Hadi Shrine - Evansville, Indiana in 2017
Bailey-Love Mortuary is honored to serve the family of Wayne Howard Bentz.Michael Stephen Stader, 79, of Evansville, passed away December 23, 2021 at Ascension St. Vincent Hospital in Evansville. He was born February 11, 1942 in Evansville to the late Perry and Ima Jewel (Ellis) Stader
Mike served as a sergeant in the U.S. Army from 1960-1963. While in the Army, he served as an MP and was transferred to the 82nd Airborne until he was honorably discharged. He attended the University of Evansville. He worked for 48 years in sales and technical services at Red Spot Paint & Varnish Company, and retired in 2011. While at Red Spot, he earned his private pilot’s license with a multi-engine instrument rating. Mike enjoyed flying the Red Spot corporate aircraft and logged over 14,000 hours as pilot in command. He was Red Spot’s first regional manager and received their first ever sales excellence award.
Mike has life memberships in the American Legion, the VFW, and the Eagles. He served twice as post commander of the Newburgh VFW. He is a Kentucky Colonel, member of the Society of Plastic Engineers, the Society of Vacuum Metallizers and was the first male Girl Scout leader in Indiana.
He joined Newburgh Masonic Lodge #174 in 1982. He was a member of the Hadi Shrine and served as Potentate in 2017. Mike was a member of the Hadi Hospital Staff and made over 100 trips to Shriner hospitals. He was also a member of the Car Club, Arab Patrol, Motor Corps, Mariners, International Shrine Yacht Club and Scottish Rite, York Rite, Sword of Bunker Hill, No-Ruz Grotto, Royal Order of the Tong and Hillbilly Clan #52.
Mike enjoyed snow skiing scuba diving, automobiles and spending time with his family.
Mike is survived by his wife, Cheryl, of 43 years; daughters, Misty Mills (Keith), Carol Stader (Kelly), Lori Barnett (Kevin), and Kendra Holmes (Chad); sister, Bonita Preston (Tom); 7 grandchildren; 6 great grandchildren; many nieces and nephews, and his companion, Cruiser.
In addition to his parents, Mike was preceded in death by his son, Michael S. Stader II and son-in-law, Bobby LaRue.
Visitation will be from 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Tuesday, December 28, 2021 at Ziemer Funeral Home Central Chapel, 626 First Ave., Evansville, where the Shriners will have a walk through at 6:45 p.m. and the Newburgh Masonic Lodge will conduct a memorial service at 7:00 p.m. Visitation will continue at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, December 29, 2021 at the funeral home. The funeral service will begin at 11:40 a.m. at the funeral home and continue with a Mass of Christian Burial at 12:00 p.m. at All Saints Parish-St. Anthony Campus, 704 N. First Avenue with Fathers Stephen Lintzenich and Jay Davidson officiating.
Entombment will be at Park Lawn Mausoleum where the American Legion Kapperman Post 44 will conduct military honors.
There will be a Celebration of Life at the Hadi Shrine from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Thursday, December 30, 2021.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Hadi Endowment Fund, P.O. Box 1, Evansville, IN 47701.
Condolences may be made online at www.ziemerfuneralhome.com.