Chester L. Longenberger

Chester L. Longenberger, 89, of Monroe, IN, passed away on Monday, January 9, 2017 at Adams Memorial Hospital. He was born on June 15, 1927, in Adams County, IN to the son of the late Otto and Hattie (Laisure) Longenberger. On May 10, 1959, he married Carol J. Heller. He was a member of the Monroe United Methodist Church, where he played the piano and organ for 73 years. At the church he also directed the hand bell choir for many years. Chester was a volunteer pianist at the Embassy Theatre in Fort Wayne. He also played a weekly circuit at Woodcrest, Evergreen, Swiss Village, Christian Care, and Bluffton Regional. He was involved in many service clubs, the library, and many community events. Chester worked as a postal carrier for the United States Postal Service and retired after 30 years of service. He served his country in the United States Navy during WWII. He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Carol J. Longenberger of Monroe; 3 daughters, Lisa (Tim) Deam of Wright City, MO; Tracy (Mark) Donaghy of Berne, IN and Rhoda (Dary) Hirschy of Decatur, IN; 4 grandchildren, Elizabeth Landis; Christopher, Michael & Scherry Hirschy; 4 great grandchildren; Elijah, Kinsey & Josiah Landis; and Annette Hirschy. He was preceded in death by 1 brother, Kenneth Longenberger; 2 sisters, Delores Mitchel and Ireta Jones. Visitation will be held on Thursday, January 12, 2017 from 2:00 – 8:00 p.m. at the Monroe United Methodist Church. A Funeral Service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, January 13, 2017 at the Monroe United Methodist Church with calling one hour prior from 9:00-10:00 a.m. Pastor Char Allen will be officiating. Burial will take place at the Ray Cemetery with military graveside rites by the American Legion Post #43. Memorials may be given to the Monroe United Methodist or Child Evangelism Fellowship. The arrangements by Haggard-Sefton & Hirschy Funeral Home.