Emma L. Van Vooren

Emma L. Van Vooren

August 21, 1924-February 24, 2019

          Granger-Emma L. Van Vooren was born on August 21, 1924. She was one of seven children and was the child of       May Ellis Barilich, who preceded her in death along with one sister and five brothers.

          On June 30, 1945, Emma married the love of her life, Emiel J. Van Vooren at St. Mary’s Church in South Bend. Emma had a wonderful and loving marriage to Emiel for 65 years. She was preceded in death by Emiel. Along with her husband; her daughter, Deborah also preceded her in death at the tender age of 10 months. In addition to Deborah, they were blessed with four other children, Joyce Schultz (Fred, deceased), Denise Trimboli (Sam), Larry Van Vooren (Pat) and Christina Murra (Curtis). Also, surviving Emma are grandchildren, Ray Schultz (Renee), Debbie Gardner (Gary), Lisa Thompson (Jeremy), Scott Van Vooren (Jen), Greg Murra and Ryan Murra. Survivors also include great grandchildren, Samantha, Michael (Shanna), Josh (Katie), Grant, Tye, Brynn, Dennis (Erin), Megan, Brendan, Bryce, Andrew, Logan, and Tayten. Also, surviving Emma are six great-great grandchildren.

          Emma dedicated her life to the caring of her family and friends. She loved to keep busy taking care of others. After her children were grown, Emma worked at Marian High School as a custodian until her husband retired. She was an avid Notre Dame fan, especially enjoying Notre Dame’s Women Basketball team. In 2010, Emma and Emiel moved to The Hearth at Juday Creek, an Assisted Living Community. There, after her beloved husband passed, Emma helped people at The Hearth by wheeling them to their table for breakfast and lunch. She enjoyed the activities, especially playing (and winning) at bingo, puzzle making, exercising and doing word search puzzles. She considered God as her constant Companion and strived to live in His graces. Emma was also a long-time member of St. Bavo Parish.

          We would like to thank the staff at The Hearth at Juday Creek along with the staff at Harbor Light Hospice for taking such wonderful care of our mother.

          Visitation for Emma will be on Wednesday, February 27 from 5 to 7 p.m.at Hahn Funeral Home, 505 W. 8th Street, Mishawaka, where a Holy Rosary will be recited at 6 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday, February 28 at 11 a.m. at St. Bavo Catholic Church, Mishawaka with Rev. Pete Pacini CSC and Rev. Barry England officiating.

          Memorial contributions may be made to St. Bavo Catholic Church, 502 W. 7th Street, Mishawaka, IN 46544, The Alzheimer’s Association, 50 E. 91st St. Ste 100, Indianapolis, IN 46209-4830 or Harbor Light Hospice, 1608 E. Day Road, Mishawaka, IN 46545.

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