Maurice T. Verstraete

Maurice “Maury” T. Verstraete, 97, of Mishawaka, passed away early Thursday morning, June 23, 2016 in Sunset House, Mishawaka.

Maury was born November 29, 1918 in Mishawaka, a son of the late Alfred and Leontine (Paelman) Verstraete. He was a life-long resident of Mishawaka and a graduate of Mishawaka High School.

Maury served his country as a Staff Sergeant in the US Army during World War II and earned a Bronze Star Medal.

Maury’s employment included Ball Band, Bendix and he retired from Dodge Manufacturing. He was a member of Queen of Peace Catholic Church, the BK Club where he enjoyed Belgian bowling, American Legion Post 161, VFW Post 360 and served on the funeral honors burial squad, DAV Chapter 15, and the Eagles. Maury was an avid fisherman and enjoyed golfing and making decorations from walnuts.

Maury married Evelyn “Evie” Sessler and she preceded him in death. He was also preceded by a brother, Marcel Verstraete; a sister, Dorothy Duvall; and a step-son, Dennis Snyder.

Maury’s surviving family includes two sons, Maurice (Mary) Verstraete of Tacoma, Washington and David (Carol) Verstraete of South Bend; a step-son, Robert (Louise) Snyder of Osceola; his sister, Loretta Johnson of Mishawaka; and many grandchildren, great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Monday, June 27, at 10:30 am in Queen of Peace Catholic Church, 4508 Vistula Road, Mishawaka, with Rev. Vincent Joseph officiating. Burial will follow at Fairview Cemetery. Military honors will be provided by American Legion 161 / VFW 360 Burial Squad.

Visitation will be Sunday, June 26, from 3 - 5 pm in Goethals & Wells Funeral Home, 503 W. 3rd Street, Mishawaka, and Monday from 9:30 - 10:30 am in the church.

Memorials are suggested to Center for Hospice Care or Queen of Peace Catholic Church. Assistance with memorials is available through the funeral home.