Rev. Willis Junior J. Letner

Rev.Willis J. Letner, 82, passed away peacefully at his residence surrounded by his family and friends on Wednesday, Feb. 24, 2010. He was born in Hornersville, MO on August 19, 1927 to Fred E. & Effie Beulah (nee Hainline) Letner who preceded him in death. He married Mary A. (nee Lowhorn) Letner and she survives. His first love was God. He was the founder and pastor of Jesus Name Pentecostal Church of Portage, IN. He loved working with people and retired from the Boys & Girls Clubs of Lake County, IN. Time spent near the water was one of his passions, whether boating or fishing. He also took time to enjoy the flowers that grew in nature. He is survived by his wife Mary Letner. Two sons: Charles Letner and Wayne (Anita) Allen. Four Daughters: Virginia (Sid) McMains, Carol Letner, Nancy (Steve) Baburek & Gloria Letner. 11 Grandchildren: Ryan Letner, Tonya (Sterling) Moore, Phillip (Robbi) Anderson, Eleisha Fletcher, Nate (Patti) Fletcher, Dan (Darci) Fletcher, Mark (Danielle) Fletcher, Jonathan (Charity) Baburek, Michael Baburek, Brian (Stephanie) Allen, Jennifer Allen. 13 Great-grandchildren: Mitchell Stora, Christian ,Aidan, Jesse, Faith, Jacob Fletcher, Delaney Anderson, Aiden Moore, Devan, Caitlin, Cameron, Madison & Hayley Allen.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Dorothy (nee Edgerton) Letner, a daughter: Mary C. Letner, two brothers: Amos E. & Virles Letner; four sisters: Audrey White, Helen Swarmes, Thelma Birch & Imogene Beaty. He is the last of his family.

The funeral service will be held on Saturday, February 27, 2010 at 11:00 AM at the Pentecostals of SouthLake Church, 1640 West 93rd Avenue, Merrillville, IN 46410 with Pastor Robert L. Stroup officiating. The visitation will be held at the Pentecostals of SouthLake Church on Friday, February 26, 2010 from 4:00 PM until 9:00 PM. Entombment will be in Chapel Lawn Memorial Gardens, Schererville, IN. Funeral arrangements entrusted to Chapel Lawn Funeral Home, 8178 Cline Avenue, Schererville, IN.