Woodrow E. (Woody) Messmer

Woodrow E. (Woody) Messmer, age 103, of Griffith, IN, passed away Tuesday, January 5, 2021. He is survived by sons, Gerry (Beth) of Griffith, Robert of Walker, LA, James (Linda) of Griffith and Donald (Rita) of Highland; eleven grandchildren, fifteen great grandchildren, six great-great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews. Preceding him in death were his beloved wives, Mary Jane in 1989 and Margaret in 2014, parents Edward and Hannah Messmer, sister Deloris McNabney and grandson Kristopher Messmer.

Woody was a World War II veteran. He retired from GATX and from Standard Equipment & Supply. He was involved in the Griffith Little League and served as president for five years. He was an avid bowler who bowled his last game on his 100th birthday! He was actively involved in the Griffith Swinging Seniors. He was a long-time member of The First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) of Highland, a member of the choir, and was one of the members who helped construct the church. He was known for his quirky sense of humor and his love of “punny” jokes. His joke earned the distinctive title of a “Woody.” Woody’s telling of a “Woody” is his legacy.

Visitation will be held at Hillside Funeral Home & Cremation Center, 8941 Kleinman Rd (one block south of Ridge Rd), Highland, IN, 46322 on Monday, January 11, 2021 from 9:00 am to 11:30 am, with the funeral service immediately following the visitation. Reverend Pastor Becky Sundquist will officiate the service. Interment will be at Elmwood Cemetery in Hammond, IN.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) of Highland in Woody’s memory.

For additional information, please contact Hillside Funeral Home & Cremation Center Konnie Kuiper-Kevin Nordyke by calling us at 219-838-0800 or visiting us at www.hillsidefhcares.com.

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