Obituaries Archives for 2026-07

Anthony George Allen Streeting

Anthony George Allen Streeting, 65, of La Porte, IN, passed away on Wednesday, July 8, 2026.

He was born on April 24, 1961, in Michigan City, IN, to John and Emily (Seter) Streeting.

Anthony is survived by his siblings, John (Paula) Streeting of Michigan City, Helen (Bob) Tibbs of La Porte, Becky Bailey of La Porte, and Angeline (Greg) McClelland of La Porte; as well as many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Mary Boggs; and brother, David Streeting.

Anthony was a welder at A & A Sheet Metal for 30+ years. He enjoyed planting flowers, doing yard work, remodeling the house, walking at the beach and parks, going to the casino, and reading his Bible every morning. He loved walking his dog, Taz.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 3 p.m. on Saturday, July 18, 2026, at Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center.

A time of visitation will be held from 12 p.m. until the time of the service on Saturday at the funeral home. Cremation will take place following the service.

Memorial donations may be made to the family c/o Angeline McClelland, 2900 Monroe Street, La Porte, IN 46350 or to the donor's choice.

Condolences may be shared with the family on www.cutlercares.com.

Katheryn Marnell Zabel

Kathryn Marnell Zabel, lovingly known as Katie, was born in Valparaiso, Indiana, on July 11, 2002, to William and Christen Zabel (Patten).

 

Katie is survived by her loving parents; her brothers, Kyle Cromey (Whitney Goodpasture) of Hanna, Stone Zabel (Gracie Thompson) of Wanatah, and Jack Zabel (Mackenzie Price) of Valparaiso; her grandmothers, Jeri Zabel and Charlotte Pryor; numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and countless friends who became family.

 

Holding a uniquely special place in Katie's heart were three little girls who were the absolute center of her world: Avery, Karma, and Ivy Crawford. She adored them beyond measure, and they adored her right back. Also left to cherish her memory is her beloved pet fox, Artemis Alvin, who perfectly reflected Katie's love for animals and her wonderfully unique spirit.

 

If there was one thing Katie never lacked, it was love. She loved deeply, fiercely, and without hesitation. She never met a stray animal she didn't want to rescue, often calling her mom with the familiar question, "Can we keep it?". Christen quickly learned that saying "no" to Katie was nearly impossible. Her heart was simply too big.

 

Katie had a personality that was impossible to forget. She was funny without even trying, quick-witted, delightfully sarcastic, and just sassy enough to keep everyone on their toes. She could make an entire room laugh with a perfectly timed comment, and somehow, even on the hardest days, her giggle could make everything feel a little lighter. She was thoughtful in ways both big and small, selfless beyond measure, and always willing to give whatever she had to someone who needed it. She constantly found creative ways to make people feel loved, celebrated, and included.

 

Beautiful inside and out, Katie radiated kindness. She wore her heart on her sleeve and never apologized for caring deeply. Whether you knew her for years or only a short time, she had a way of making you feel seen, valued, and loved.

 

Katie was unapologetically herself. She absolutely loved having her hair dyed purple, a color that seemed to match her vibrant personality and free spirit. She embraced life with a sense of humor, authenticity, and just the right amount of boldness.

 

She was incredibly proud of her family, especially her brothers. At work, she loved sharing stories about their accomplishments and life updates, always speaking of them with admiration and pride. She also cherished the close relationships she had with her future sisters-in-law, Whitney, Gracie, and Mckenzie, whom she loved as family.

 

Katie had a passion for life and embraced every opportunity to make memories. She loved animals, country music, Nashville, Law & Order: SVU, Criminal Minds, true crime podcasts, and Disney, especially Animal Kingdom. Her pets often carried names inspired by country music artists, beloved detectives, or Disney characters, each one reflecting another piece of who she was.

 

Traveling was one of Katie's greatest joys. She especially loved exploring new places with her mom, Christen, who often joked she never quite knew where Katie would decide they were going next. Katie was always dreaming up the next adventure, planning another concert, another destination, or another unforgettable memory. She also treasured girls' trips with her mom and her beloved "Aunt Bossy," (Aunt Val), where laughter was guaranteed and memories were always made.

Katie and her mom shared a bond that most people only dream of. Not only did they spend their free time together traveling, going to concerts, and making unforgettable memories, but they were also blessed to work for La Porte County Government, each in different departments. No matter how busy the day became, they made time for each other, spending every lunch break together. How fortunate they were to not only be mother and daughter, but also best friends who got to share life's everyday moments side by side.

 

Katie worked as a Deputy Clerk for the La Porte County Courts, where she quickly became much more than a coworker to those around her. She became family. She was adored for her giggles, compassion, her humor, her willingness to help anyone, and the genuine joy she brought into the workplace every single day. Her absence will be deeply felt by everyone fortunate enough to work beside her.

 

Katie lived with a wisdom well beyond her years. She taught those around her to love harder, laugh louder, rescue more animals, plan the trip, buy the concert tickets, dye your hair your favorite color, and never be afraid to let people know how much they mean to you.

 

Though her absence leaves an immeasurable void, her beautiful smile, vibrant spirit, infectious laughter, and generous heart will continue to live on in the countless memories she created and the lives she forever changed.

 

Katie was one of a kind. She was deeply loved, and she will be deeply missed every single day.

 

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Katie's life during visitation on Sunday, July 12, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at South Central High School.

 

An additional visitation will be held on Monday, July 13, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center in La Porte, with the funeral service immediately following.

 

Following the service, all who knew and loved Katie are warmly invited to join the family for a luncheon at Valparaiso Baptist Church, 612 Emmetsburg Street, Valparaiso, Indiana. Everyone is welcome as we gather to honor Katie's life, share memories, and celebrate the love she brought into this world.

 

Condolences may be shared online at www.cutlercares.co

Ross P. Balling

Ross P. Balling, January 19, 1966 - July 2, 2026.

Ross Paul Balling, 60, of Michigan City, Indiana, passed away peacefully at the University of Chicago Medical Center in Chicago, Illinois.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, at Mary Mother of Mercy Catholic Parish - Notre Dame Campus, 1010 Moore Road, Long Beach, Indiana, with Rev. David Kime officiating. Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. until the time of Mass at church.  Arrangements are being handled by the Ott/Haverstock Funeral Chapel, 418 Washington St., Michigan City, Indiana.

Ross was born in 1966 in Chicago, Illinois, to the late Charles Balling and Patricia (Pappas) Balling.  On August 1, 1992, in Algona, Iowa, he married Diane Thill.

Ross is survived by his beloved wife, Diane (Thill) Balling, and his three treasures, Lukas Balling (21), Livia Balling (19) and Elaina Balling (19) ; his five sisters, Gwenn (Richard) Rausch, Meryl (Ronald) Klages, Karen (Dr. Michael) Stanich, Joan (Mark) Sukowicz, and Barbara (Rodney) Johnson; his two brothers, Charles (Marlene) Balling and Gary (Susan) Balling; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and countless lifelong friends.

Ross was the youngest of eight children and raised on the southwest side of Chicago and spent many years enjoying nearby public parks. His empathy towards others always impacted those around him. He graduated from Hubbard High School in Chicago, where he was chosen as captain of his basketball team senior year.  He attended Iowa Central Community College, in Fort Dodge, Iowa, where he was recruited to play basketball and met the love of his life, Diane.  He was then recruited to play basketball at Roosevelt University in Chicago, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in 1989.

Following graduation, Ross began his professional career as the Business Manager for Rausch and Associates in Chicago. While working and living near North Ave Beach, Ross and his longtime friend, the late Kyle Gronert, became co-founders of North Beach Chicago, the first ever indoor sand volleyball facility in Chicago. He later found his true calling in sports marketing and founded EVP, building it into one of the nation's most respected volleyball organizations. For almost four decades, Ross dedicated his life to the sport he loved, mentoring and working alongside more than 35 collegiate volleyball coaches while traveling throughout the United States directing EVP pro volleyball tournaments and selling sponsorship, as well as promoting camps, clinics, and opportunities for EVP Academies' young athletes. Through EVP, he inspired thousands of players and coaches, helping them develop not only their athletic abilities but also confidence, discipline, leadership, and lifelong friendships.

Ross was equally passionate about coaching. After moving to the Michigan area, Ross dedicated his “after-work” hours to coaching the New Buffalo High School girls’ volleyball team. Then, once Diane and Ross settled into their home in Michigan City and started their family, Ross volunteered countless hours coaching basketball and volleyball at Notre Dame Catholic School - including his own three children. Later on, Ross became a developmental coach for Marquette Catholic High School boys’ basketball team, guiding and motivating youth to perform at the best of their abilities. Ross also coached both indoor and beach volleyball throughout the Chicagoland area, as well as in our local community of Michigan City. Whether coaching beginners or elite athletes, Ross had a remarkable ability to encourage others to believe in themselves. His enthusiasm, patience, and positive attitude left a lasting impression on generations of young athletes. Many who knew him credit Ross not only for improving their game but for teaching invaluable life lessons about perseverance, teamwork, humility, and character.  Ross also contributed to the local Michigan City community by working for the MC Parks and Recreation department in his earlier years, as well as serving as a member of the city's Planning Commission up until his passing.

Above all else, Ross was a devoted husband and father. His greatest joy came from supporting his children in everything they pursued. He was their biggest fan, attending practices, games, and tournaments, always cheering them on with unwavering pride and encouragement.  Watching them grow, succeed, and discover their own passions brought him immeasurable happiness.  Outside of coaching and directing beach volleyball tournaments, Ross cherished time spent with his family. He especially enjoyed vacations to Florida, relaxing on the beach, riding his bicycle along the shoreline, and creating memories with those he loved most.

 

Never one to shy away from a challenge, he proudly completed a triathlon in Chicago in his 20s. Ross also possessed a wonderful sense of humor. He loved making people laugh, telling jokes, and bringing smiles to those around him. His vibrant personality and genuine kindness made it easy for others to feel welcome in his presence.

A man of deep faith, generosity, and compassion, Ross lived a life centered on serving others. His unwavering dedication to his family, his athletes, his community, and his faith touched countless lives. His legacy will live on through the many people he mentored, encouraged, and inspired throughout his lifetime.

Ross will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever cherished by his family, friends, former players, fellow coaches, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 6704, Hagerstown, MD 21741, or to the University of Chicago Hospital Cancer Unit, Goldblatt Pavillion, 5841 S. Maryland Ave MC 2115, Chicago, IL 60637.

To sign the guest book or leave online condolences, please visit www.otthaverstock.com.

Timothy J. Eisele

Timothy J. Eisele, December 9, 1959 - July 3, 2026.

Timothy J. Eisele, 66, La Porte, Indiana, passed away Friday, July 3, 2026, at 7:39 pm.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 am, Tuesday, July 14, 2026 at Ott/Haverstock Funeral Chapel, 418 Washington St., Michigan City, Indiana, with Deacon Bill Zientarski officiating. Burial will follow in St. Stanislaus Cemetery with full military honors conducted by the John Franklin Miller American Legion Post #37. Visitation hours will be from 4:00 pm -7:00 pm, Monday, July 13, 2026, and from 9:00 am until 10:00 am,  Tuesday, July 14, 2026, at the Ott/Haverstock Funeral Chapel.

He was born December 9, 1959, in Michigan City, Indiana. On May 16, 1981, in Michigan City, Indiana he married Diane Mason, who survives in La Porte, Indiana.  Also surviving are two sons, Bradley J. (Tiffiny) Eisele of La Porte, Indiana, and Jacob (Allene) Eisele of Walkerton, Indiana; grandchildren, Darian Eisele, Roman Eisele, Aaliyah David, Baylie Eisele, and Kayelynn Eisele; He was preceded in death by his parents John and Grace (Bleck) Eisele;

Tim was a Security Officer at Magnum Security Services, Inc., South  Bend, Indiana. He served in the United States Air Force and was a former volunteer firefighter for the Center Township Fire Dept. along with being a 1st Responder for the dept.  He also was a former police cadet and Civil Defense volunteer.

Contributions may be made to Michiana Humane Society 722 Indiana Highway 212, Michigan City, IN 46360  

Calvin Carl Jenks

Calvin Carl Jenks, age 76, of Knox, Indiana, passed away peacefully at his home, surrounded by the love of his family, on Sunday, July 5, 2026.

 

Born on October 12, 1949, in Porter County, Indiana, Calvin was the son of the late Clark C. Jenks and Inez E. (Hayes) Jenks. He graduated from Elston High School in Michigan City with the Class of 1967 before proudly answering his country's call to serve in the United States Army. From 1969 to 1972, he was stationed in Germany, carrying with him the quiet pride and dedication that would remain hallmarks of his character throughout his life.

 

On September 16, 1972, Calvin married the love of his life, Holly Marie Hedstrom, in Westville, IN. Together they built a life centered on love, family, and unwavering devotion until Holly's passing on May 24, 2018. Though he missed her dearly every day, the love they shared remained a guiding light in his life.

 

For more than 30 years, Calvin worked as a welder for New York Blower in La Porte, where his exceptional craftsmanship and strong work ethic earned the respect of his coworkers. His talent extended far beyond his profession, however, as he became a highly skilled blacksmith whose artistry was admired throughout the community. For over three decades, visitors to "Pioneer Land" at the LaPorte County Fair looked forward to watching Calvin demonstrate the timeless craft of blacksmithing. With every hammer strike against the anvil, he preserved a piece of history while inspiring countless fairgoers with his remarkable skill and passion for traditional craftsmanship.

 

Calvin's interests reflected his creativity and determination. As Scoutmaster, he enjoyed guiding young men through the Boy Scouts while sharing those experiences alongside his own sons. He also had once earned recognition at the La Porte Sunflower Festival for creating a metal sunflower that reached an astonishing height of over thirteen feet. His skill and craftmanship did not go unnoticed as the photo of Calvin and his handcrafted sunflower were published in the La Porte Herald-Argus that year.

 

Those who knew Calvin will remember him as a man who spoke exactly what was on his mind. He was refreshingly unfiltered, honest, and genuine. Beneath that straightforward exterior was an incredibly generous heart. He was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone in need, often putting others before himself without hesitation. His unmistakable laugh was as memorable as the man himself—boisterous, contagious, and capable of bringing smiles to everyone fortunate enough to hear it.

 

Calvin leaves behind a loving family who will forever cherish his memory, including his children, Carl Calvin Jenks and Cynthia Farmer (Jeff); three beloved grandchildren, Ashley Farmer, Alan Farmer, and Carlianne Celise Thompson-Jenks; his siblings, Carol King (Fred), Jervis Jenks (Linda), and George Jenks (Pam); along with many extended family members and friends who were blessed to know him.

 

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Holly Marie Jenks; his parents; his son, Craig C. Jenks, who passed away in 2000; and his brother, Clifford C. Jenks, who passed away in 2012.

 

A visitation celebrating Calvin's life will be held on Friday, July 31, 2026, from 4:00 until 7:00 p.m. at Haverstock Funeral Home and Cremation Services. His cremated remains will be laid to rest beside his beloved Holly at Door Village Cemetery on Saturday, August 1, 2026, at 11:00 a.m., with Pastor Tim Ahlemeyer officiating. Military honors will be rendered at the cemetery in recognition of Calvin's faithful service to his country.

 

Memorial contributions may be made to Pioneer Land, c/o LaPorte County Fairgrounds, to help preserve the heritage and traditions that Calvin so faithfully shared with generations of visitors.

 

Calvin's life was forged with the same strength, integrity, and purpose that he poured into every piece of iron he shaped. Whether serving his country, providing for his family, teaching others, or standing before the forge at Pioneer Land, he left an enduring impression on everyone he met. His generous spirit, unforgettable laughter, and legacy of craftsmanship will continue to live on in the hearts of those who loved him.

 

April Mitchell Padgen

April Mitchell Padgen passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, June 14th, after a valiant battle with colon and liver cancer.

 

April was born in Valparaiso on April 1, 1966, to Ken Mitchell and Jo Sanders. She graduated from La Porte High School and received an associate degree from Michiana College of Commerce.

 

April will be remembered at 96-7 The Eagle as past producer Sound Off and Tradio. Known to many as “April Showers,” she also greeted visitors with a warm smile, and served as executive assistant to station management.

 

She leaves behind her children, Jocie (Jahs-ee) Padgen, Mikaela (mik-Kay-la) Walburg, and Drew Padgen along with their spouses, and her mother, Jo Walker of LaPorte.

 

A “Celebration of Life” service will be held at Mile City Church in Plymouth, Michigan, on July 11, 2026. Visitation will be at 3 p.m., followed by the service at four. A private burial will be attended by immediate family at Pine Grove Cemetery in New Buffalo.

 

Flowers may be sent directly to Mile City Church.

Memorial donations to Henry Ford Health “Game On Cancer” are encouraged.

 

Robert Nash

Robert Nash, 76, of La Porte, IN, passed away on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, at Brickyard Health-La Porte Care Center.

He was born on December 7, 1949, in Fort Wayne, IN, to Roselawn Polk.

Robert is survived by his daughter, Sabrina Harris; friend, Doug Kollar; and his treasured church body at Friendship Baptist Church.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Robert grew up in Fort Wayne and held several jobs, ending as a machinist. He spent the latter years of his life living at Brickyard Health-La Porte Care Center. Although Robert had a difficult life, his attendance at church and growing relationship with the Lord, led him to learn to forgive.

Cremation has taken place with Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center, La Porte. A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held at 5 p.m. on Sunday, July 12, 2026, at Friendship Baptist Church with Pastor Jason Burrick officiating.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Friendship Baptist Church, 3991 E. State Rd 4, La Porte, IN 46350.

Condolences may be shared online at www.cutlercares.com.

Zachary A. Siegmund

Zachary A. Siegmund, September 5, 1996 - June 29, 2026.

Zachary A. Siegmund, 29, Michigan City, IN, passed away Monday, June 29, 2026, at 10:44 am in Franciscan Health - Michigan City, IN.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am, Friday, July 3, 2026, at Ott/Haverstock Funeral Chapel, 418 Washington St., Michigan City, IN, with Deacon Michael Green officiating. Burial will follow in St. Stanislaus Cemetery, Michigan City, IN.  Visitation will be from 9:00 am - 11:00 am, Friday, at the funeral chapel.

He was born September 5, 1996, in South Bend, IN.

Surviving are his mother, Christine (David) O'Bringer of Trail Creek, IN; father, Scott (Dawn) Siegmund of Michigan City, IN; brother, Adam Siegmund of Michigan City, IN; three step-brothers, Logan (Taylor) Sanchez of Tallahassee, FL, Jason Barnes of Michigan City, IN, and Zachary (Raychel) O'Bringer of Hobart, IN; step-sister, Sarah (Jesse) Underdown of Whidbey Island, WA; special-friend, Faith Stephan of Texas; and several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

He was preceded in death by his sister, Sara Siegmund; uncle, David Eldridge; and grandparents, LaDonna and Donald Siegmund and Katherine and Jerry Eldridge.

Zachary was a 2015 Graduate of Michigan City High School and received his Bachelor's Degree from Purdue University. He enjoyed golfing, camping, going to the beach, watching baseball and spending time with his family and friends. Zachary was an avid Chicago Cubs fan.

Contributions may be made to the family c/o Ott/Haverstock Funeral Chapel, Inc., 418 Washington St., Michigan City, IN 46360.

To sign a guest book and leave condolences online visit our web site at www.otthaverstock.com.

 

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