Clarence Edward Kirsch

Clarence Edward Kirsch, 95

Clarence Edward Kirsch, formerly of rural Fowler, age 95, passed away peacefully on October 4, 2015 at Cumberland Pointe Health Care Facility. He was born March 21, 1920, near Dunnington, the son of Joseph and Helen (Sondgeroth) Kirsch, who are deceased. On July 15, 1946, in Fowler, he married Dolores Schroeder, who survives. They celebrated their 69th wedding anniversary in July.

Mr. Kirsch attended Ambia High School and farmed on the family farm for many years. Later he developed his own grain bin construction business. He was a Navy veteran of World War II, serving from October 1941 to December 19, 1945 on the aircraft carrier, The Natoma Bay. He saw much action in the South Pacific, and in 2010, was awarded many medals of Honor for those years of duty and service. Most recently, he was honored by the American Legion, Post #57 of Fowler for 70 years of active membership. He had the mind of an engineer and was very creative in developing innovative solutions to problems. In his retirement years he became an avid fisherman and enjoyed his time with friends on the ponds close to his home. He was a devoted and life-long member of St. Mary's Catholic Church, Dunnington, where he was a member of the Holy Name Society. He also belonged to the American Legion, Post #57.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by three daughters, Kathleen Leuck (David) of Pinehurst, NC, Jane Boden (Robert) of Louisville, KY, Annette Ross (Ken) of Exton, PA, and 2 sons, Greg A. Kirsch (Marsha) of Kansas City, MO and David A. Kirsch (Kelly) of New Lebanon, Ohio. Also surviving are 10 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. Two brothers, Wilfred and Joseph Kirsch preceded him in death and 5 sisters; Sister M. Antonita, O.S.F. (Hilda), Ann Brennen, Maria VanDame, Geni LeSuer and Helen Ann Grieves. A funeral Mass of remembrance will be celebrated on October 24, 2015 at St. Mary's Catholic Church, Dunnington, IN at 11 am. Friends may call one hour prior to the Mass. Father Donald Gross will officiate; interment will follow in St. Mary's Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Sacred Heart School Direct, St. Mary's Catholic Church or Bright Focus Foundation for Macular Degeneration Research. The family wishes to express their sincere gratitude and thanks to the caring staff of Cumberland Pointe Health Campus. Arrangements by Windler Funeral Home.