Max J. Messmann

MAX J. MESSMANN, 86, died peacefully Saturday, May 3, 2008, at Lutheran Hospital, Fort Wayne. Born in Fort Wayne, he was the son of the late Wilfried and Mildred Messmann. He was a member of St. Peter's Lutheran Church, Fort Wayne, and enjoyed singing with the church choir. He was a veteran of World War II serving his country in the Army Air Corps. He retired as Manager of the Lutheran Bookstore after 20 years, in 1985. Until 1965, he had been part owner and operator of the Deluxe Cleaners in New Haven. He is survived by his children, Faith (Arnold) Witte of Hoagland, Janet (Jerry) George of Fort Wayne, William Messmann of Hoagland and Ruth Ann "Tutti" (Robert) Gilbert of Rio Rancho, N.M.; brother, Jack Messmann of Mt. Pleasant, Texas; sister, Valeria Wojciechowski of Sebastian, Fla.; grandchildren, Sarah Lee, Jennifer Palilonis, Ryan Messmann, Christopher George and Nathan Gilbert; and four great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by the love of his life, Ruth, his wife of 64 years, who died April 13, 2008; and grandson, Mark Witte. Service is 2 p.m. Wednesday at St. Peter's Lutheran Church, 7710 E. State Blvd., Fort Wayne, with calling one hour prior. The Rev. Donald Nord officiating. Calling also from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday at E. Harper & Son Funeral Home, 740 Indiana Hwy. 930 E., New Haven. Burial in St. Peter's Lutheran Cemetery, Fort Wayne. Preferred memorials to St. Peter's Lutheran Church.