Fern L. Culp

Fern L. Culp, 74, a lifetime area resident, died following an illness, on Sunday, December 22, 2002, at 4:05 p.m., at her residence, 1601 Kenwood Ave., Plymouth.

Born in Hibbard, Ind., on May 2, 1928, Fern was the daughter of Charley and Mildred Hagenbush Bender. She graduated from Lincoln High School, Plymouth.

On January 25, 1947, in Plymouth, Fern and Claude Culp were married. Claude died on April 14, 1981.

Fern was a dedicated homemaker and mother. An avid and expert seamstress, she sewed all of her own clothing and much of her family’s and friend’s wearing apparel. She loved to cook and was known affectionately as “Grandma Meatballs.” Family oriented, Fern enjoyed being with her children and grandchildren. She loved to travel anywhere.

Bingo was her game and she indulged it as a member of the Eagles, the V.F.W. auxiliary and the Moose Lodge.

Fern is survived by four daughters. They are: Rita (Fred) Masterson and Melody (Patrick) Bottorff all of Plymouth; Nancy Masterson, Bluffton, Ind., and Claudia (Johnnie) Smith, Bourbon, Ind. Eighteen grandchildren and 29 great-grandchildren survive together with two brothers: Clarence (Pat) Bender, Newygo, Mich., and Ray Bender, Plymouth.

Fern was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, a daughter, Debra L. Culp (who died May 14, 1977) and a great-grandson, Christopher Masterson. Friends may call from 4 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, December 26, 2002, at the Johnson-Danielson Funeral Home, 1100 N. Michigan St., Plymouth.

Funeral services for Fern will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, December 27, 2002, in the funeral home. The Rev. Max Hatfield will officiate.

Burial will be in New Oakhill Cemetery, Plymouth.

Gifts in Fern’s memory may be made to the Marshall County Hospice.