Wilma H. Arata, age 92, of Mishawaka, passed away Sunday, November 15, 2009 at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center in South Bend of natural causes. Wilma was born October 15, 1917 in Mishawaka to the late Harley L. and Tessa (Cooper) Stayton. On June 1, 1940, she was united in marriage to Mr. Edward Arata in Mishawaka. Edward preceded her in death, passing away in 1989.
Surviving are her children, Tom (Patricia) Arata of Mishawaka, Jane (Raymond) Kizer of Logansport, Indiana, Suzanne Rodts of Rockford, Michigan, and Beth Arata (companion, Jon Smiley) of Kewanna, Indiana. Also surviving are 14 grandchildren, 22 great grandchildren, and 2 great-great grandchildren. Wilma was preceded in death by her brothers, John and Lauren Stayton, and her son-in-law, Philip Rodts.
Visitation will be held from 4-8 pm Thursday, November 19, 2009 at Chapel Hill Funeral Home in Osceola. Rev. Greg Timmons of the First Christian Church of Mishawaka will conduct the 10:00 am funeral service on Friday, November 20, 2009 at Chapel Hill Funeral Home. Interment will follow in Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens.
Wilma was a graduate of Mishawaka High School, class of 1936. She was a homemaker, who was dedicated to both her family, and her church. She was a member of First Christian Church for 71 years. In her spare time, she enjoyed watching professional football, especially the Colts and the Bears, sewing, and needlework.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to First Christian Church, 2511 E. 3rd St. Mishawaka, IN 46544, or the charity of the donor''s choice.
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