Mary Lou and Michael Lahman

     Mary Lou (Matz) Lahman, 83, passed away on Saturday, February 11, 2023. She was born on December 18, 1939, the daughter of J. Norbert and Dorothy P. (Nibling) Matz. She married Donnie Williams on May 16, 1959, and he preceded her in death in August, 1989. She later married Lewis Michael Lahman on February 14, 2003, and he passed away on February 11, 2023. Mary Lou loved to travel with Mike, and she was a devoted wife who loved him dearly. She loved her grandchildren and children. Mary Lou always had a smile and a kind word for everyone she met. No one was a stranger to her. She was employed by Mount Gilead schools as a cook, server, and lunch lady for many years. Mary Lou liked to dance. She always turned a house into a home, no matter where she lived. She took care of anyone in need.  She paid attention to detail and was well put together, simply, she was sparkly  Mary Lou was strong willed and courageous. She was very put together. Mary Lou was a very colorful woman, generous, loving, and kind. She always made everyone feel loved in every sense of the word. Mary Lou was a member of the Mount Gilead VFW. She led a simple, yet extravagant life. She was a devout Catholic. Mary Lou paid attention to detail in every aspect of her life. In her earlier years, she enjoyed cooking, baking, and canning. Mary Lou was Homecoming Queen in high school. She attended St. Polycarp Catholic Church. 

     Mary Lou is survived by her daughter,  Julie D.  Williams (Todd Parish); grandchildren, Dustin Williams, Chyenne Thompson, Dakota Thompson, Wendi Hunter, and Whitney Lautzenhiser; great-grandchildren, Isabella Buzzard, Harley Webb, Jackson Lautenhiser, Lila Lautenhiser, Colton Lautenhiser and Ella Lautenhiser; and siblings, Lois Ann Little, and Alan R. Matz, and Michael D. Matz; and a daughter-in-law, Linda Williams.  In addition to her first husband, Donnie Williams, Mary Lou is preceded in death by a son, Wes Williams; her parents; and sibilings, John F. Matz, Roger L. Matz and Larry N. Matz.

     Mike Lahman died February 11, 2023 at his home with his wife at the age 79. Mike was an honorable member of the U.S. Air Force and served as a Sergeant E4 for 7 years. Mike fought in Vietnam and was a member of the thirty two degree rank free masonry of the United States.  Mike was a beloved father of four children, Lonnie, Justin, Julie, and Shelly. Mike was known for his compassion and generosity that he would offer to his dearest loved ones. Mike was a stern man and was passionate about his beliefs. Although he could be tough sometimes, those who would take the time to get to know Mike would know that he was willing to help those in need, could make humor out of a terrible situation, and just an overall sweet guy. Mike was a private man and had a strong work ethic. He loved his work as a traveling salesman. Mike when he was not working was at home, tending to his wife whom he held higher regard to than anyone else. Mike was avidly involved in the community and knew everyone on a first name basis. He was close with the mayor and worked for the betterment of his community. He was an animal lover and cherished his dog Biggie. Mike will be missed. He is now resting alongside his beloved Mary Lou. May God ensure them every lasting happiness.

     Mike is survived by his children, Lonnie Lahman, Shelly Laham, and Justin Cota; grandchildren, Cassie Cota, Jack Cota, Clara Cota, Bonnie Laham, Joseph Laham, Jacqueline McIver, and Lindsey Peoples. He is preceded in death by  his parents, Whimp and Lucy Lahman.

     Mary Lou and Mike had 20 years of adventuring around the United States. Mike was a devoted husband, and she loved him dearly.

     A graveside memorial service for Michael and Mary Lou Lahman will be held at 1:30p.m. on Sunday, February 19, 2023, at White County Memorial Garden in Carmi with military rites provided by the Carmi VFW, American Legion and Masonic rites. Campbell Funeral Home in Carmi is in charge of arrangements.