Ermadeen Evelyn Wells Austgen

Ermadeen “Erma” Evelyn Austgen, age 88, of Griffith passed away November 12, 2013 with her family at her side. Erma was born May 10, 1925. She married Sylvester Austgen and he preceded her in death on December 21, 2003. Mrs. Austgen was also preceded in death by four sisters and two brothers. Erma is survived by five children: Will (Eileen) Richeke, Carol Hartsell, Elaine (Raleigh) Hinkle, Nancy (Paul) Glair and Kathleen Austgen; 8 grandchildren; 4 great grandchildren; and 2 great great grandchildren; several step grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. She was a member of the Primitive Baptist Church of Portage. Erma worked during WWII making ammunition and at Rand McNally packing atlases. She worked hard aside Sylvester on the farm. Erma loved gardening and tending to her flowers. She bowled in a league for many years and enjoyed doing jigsaw puzzles, fishing , hunting and trips to the casino. Erma made the best biscuits and gravy (yum yum) and was always up for anything fun. Her biggest adventure was a cruise to the Hawaiian Islands. Friends may meet with the family Saturday, November 16, 2013 from 10:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. (time of service) at Chapel Lawn Funeral Home, 8178 Cline Ave., (one-half mile south of US 30) Schererville, IN with Elder Raleigh Hinkle officiating. Interment will follow at Chapel Lawn Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Dementia Care Foundation, American Lung Association or American heart Association. Please visit: www.chapellawnfunerals.com.