RUTH FRANCES ALLISON – PATZKA - MICKELSON

Ruth Frances Mickelson, 91, of LaPorte formerly of Union Mills, passed away Tuesday, August 31, 2010.  She was born December 31, 1918 in LaPorte to William & Myrtle (Freeman) Allison and graduated from LaPorte High School in 1936.  She was married to Robert A. Patzka for 56 years, then to Avery L. Mickelson, both of whom preceded her in death.
Survivors include her daughter, Cheryl (Tommy) Nicholson of Greenwood, IN, both graduates of Purdue University, daughter-in-law, Carlene Patzka of Union Mills, children, Janis (Kevin) Mickelson of Indianapolis, Greg (Patti) Mickelson of New Carlisle, Ken (Claudia) Mickelson of Connecticut, grandchildren: Elizabeth Goens, Brad Mickelson, Andy Mickelson, Beth Mickelson Bray, Sarah West, Nathan Mickelson, Jamie Tarpley & Chad Wallace and 3 great grandchildren.  Six foster children made their home with the Patzka’s over the years.  Also preceding her in death were her son, David Patzka, sister, Della Aust, brother, Willard Byrne and her parents.
Known for many years as “The Straw Lady” because of her Wheat Weaving.  Raising her own wheat, she exhibited, taught and sold Wheat Weaving, which is almost a lost art.  Frances was a Clinton Township 4-H leader for 17 years, worked at Allis-Chalmers during the war, taught as an aide at South Central School, attended Wanatah Christian Church, was active in LaPorte County Farm Bureau, Chapter 105 of the NACCC Alumni, Carpenters Retirees Club, Tuesday Recreation Club at Swanson Center and delivered Meals-on-Wheels for Westville.  Most recently she was a member of Lambs Chapel United Methodist Church in LaPorte. 
A funeral service will be held Saturday 11:00 AM at Wanatah Funeral Chapel, 309 N. Main St., Pastor Jay Loucks officiating with burial to follow at Graceland Cemetery.  Visitation Friday from 4 – 8 PM.  In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the Indiana 4-H Foundation.