Mary Marie Shorter, 100, died from natural causes on Sunday, January 16, 2022, at St. Anthony Healthcare.

Mary was born on January 24, 1921, in Akron, Indiana to Gerald L. Bemenderfer and Lavon Shoup Bemenderfer. After graduating from Akron High School in 1938, she worked for the Karl Gast Company in Akron. She married Harry M. Shorter on June 5, 1941, in Winamac, Indiana. Harry preceded her in death on August 21, 1970.

Mary was a member of the American Legion and St. Mary’s Cathedral. She was previously employed at the Tippecanoe County Court House working for Judge Crouse.

She is also preceded in death by her parents; sister, Helen Hassler; her children, Stephen G. Shorter, Mark G. Shorter, Timothy J. Shorter, Mary Jane Shorter Puskar and Katherine E. Thieme; her grandson, Scott Shorter; and her son-in-law, Richard Gillis.

She is survived by her children:  Frederick J. Shorter (Kathryn), Georgia Ann Leavitt, Susan S. Nixon (Roy) and Thomas H. Shorter (Judith); her sons and daughters-in-law, Marie Shorter, LaDonna Shorter, Susan Shorter, Barry Puskar and John Thieme; 32 grandchildren, 33 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great-grandchild. She is also survived by her nieces; Polly Warfel and Bette Conroy; sister-in-law Mary Ann Chubb; and dear friend, Linda Fields.

Mary’s family members send their heartfelt appreciation to the staff, nurses and aides at St. Anthony for their care and support these past four years, with a special thank you to Susan Ginn and Denise Dilden.

Mary never lost her beauty, charm and amazing sense of humor. She served as an inspiration to all in her family. Though she survived more adversity than most, Mary remained positive and strong for her entire 101 years.

Visitation will be from 11:00 am until the time of the service 12:00 pm on Friday at Soller-Baker Lafayette Chapel, 400 Twyckenham Blvd. Interment will be at St. Mary Cemetery.  The family request that those attending wear masks.  Memorial contributions may be made to Lafayette Catholic Schools in Mary’s memory.