Bethel Ewigleben-Mattingly

BETHEL EWIGLEBEN-MATTINGLY HOBART, IN Bethel Ewigleben-Mattingly, a longtime Hobart resident, passed away May 13, 2009 after a short illness. She was most recently a resident of Brentwood Assisted Living and was a lifelong member of the First Christian Church in Hobart. Bethel was born June 22, 1910 in Huntington, IN to William and Florence (Hyser) Sigler. One of her favorite memories, before moving to New Street in Hobart in 1918, was of Old Settlers' Day in Columbia City, IN and taking rides on Indian Princess Kelsequah's pony, Pokey Pocahantas. After graduating from Hobart High School in 1928, she studied at the Chicago Conservatory of Dramatic Art as well as privately with Dr. Walter Bradley Griffin, the son of Chicago orator, preacher and radio personality Dr. Preston Bradley. Bethel took part in "Little Theater" activities such as the Gary Civic Theater, Uptown Players in Chicago and founded the Hobart Players Guild which was active for eight years. She fondly remembered being a performer, narrator and an assistant director for the 1948 Hobart Centennial Celebration Pageant held in Brickie Stadium. Her active interest and energy led her to be a teacher as well as a student. Bethel gave lessons in her home in speech, dramatic arts and arranged recitals for her students. She taught kindergarten at the First Christian Church from 1952-1964, and in 1964 opened the Jack & Jill Academy, Hobart's first pre-school which she led until 1975. Through her programs of book reviews, monologues and dramatic readings throughout Indiana and the Chicago area, Bethel developed relationships with various women's clubs. She was a longtime member of Chicago Conference of Club Presidents and Program Chairmen, member and past president of the Hobart Woman's Club, Lake Federated Club and the Woman's Club of Northwest Indiana. In 1975, she was honored as one of Lake County's most valuable women by the Cancer Society. Bethel is survived by her son, Jon Ewigleben of Hayward, CA; and granddaughter, Darcy of California. She was preceded in death by her first husband, Emil F. Ewigleben in 1973; infant son, Ramon; son, James E. Ewigleben; younger sister, Beatrice; and younger brothers: William and Paul (both WWII veterans). In 1980, she married Robert Mattingly and he preceded her in death in 1988. Bethel adored and had a close relationship with Bob's offspring. Proverbs 31:26 -- She opened her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness. A Memorial Service for Bethel will be held a later date. Burns Funeral Home, Hobart in charge of arrangements. www.burnsfuneral.com