Violet Lutes, 101, formerly of Nappanee, died at 12:20 a.m., Saturday, March 7, 2015, at Lakeland Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center in Milford after a brief illness. She had resided there for the last 2 ½ years.
Violet was born Oct. 7, 1913, in Kosciusko County to Paul and Ida (Mock) Buhrt. She married Herman C. Lutes Aug. 15, 1934. He preceded in death Feb. 24, 1998.
She was a lifetime area resident. She was the oldest living graduate of Milford High School, graduating in 1931. She had worked at Blue Bell in Nappanee. Violet enjoyed sewing and sewed for many people in this area. She loved her grandchildren and nieces and nephews.
Surviving are sons: Charles Lutes, Bremen, James (Lorrie) Lutes, Greenwood; daughter-in-law: Thelma (Don) Rink, Nappanee; 11 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren; sister: Mable Waldbeser, Milford; and brothers: Robert (Laura) Buhrt, Milford, and John Buhrt, Warsaw.
She was preceded in death by a son: Robert “Ben” Lutes; sister: Florence Nemeth; and brothers: Lewis Buhrt and Ray Buhrt.
Family and friends may call from 1-3 p.m. Wednesday, March 11 at Thompson-Lengacher & Yoder Funeral Home, Nappanee. Funeral services will begin at 3 p.m. Burial will be in Stony Point Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be given to Southern Care Hospice.