Lynn PeDue, 79

Lynn Eugene PeDue, age 79, of Sturgis, passed away Tuesday morning, July 16, 2024, at his home.

He was born July 13, 1945, in La Porte, Indiana son of the late John and Bessie (Keltz) PeDue.

Lynn resided in Sturgis since 1978 coming from White Pigeon. His early life was spent in Westville, Indiana where he graduated from Westville High School with the class of 1963.

On April 25, 1979, he married the love of his life, Babby Chapman in Sturgis.

Lynn was a talented chef by trade. He had worked at many area restaurants including Patterson’s Supper Club, The Minnie Tucker, both in Sturgis, the Harvey House in Constantine, and Michaels in Burr Oak. His biggest job was being a husband, father, and following his retirement, a grandfather.

He was an active member of the former Sturgis Bible Chapel in Sturgis and past member of Captain John J. Kelley Post #1355 V.F.W.

Lynn was the ultimate father and grandfather, he always had time to take the kids to and from school, sporting events and all their many other activities and seldom was not in attendance at those activities. Many will remember him for the over 15 years he played Santa Claus. He was a lifelong loyal avid fan of the Chicago Cubs and Chicago Bears. Lynn was truly happiest when he was surrounded by his family, especially while enjoying their many cookouts.

Lynn was proud to have served his country during the Vietnam War in the U.S. Marine Corp from January 1965 – March 1969 earning the rank of Private First Class. While in the Corp he served multiple tours in Vietnam.

He is survived by his loving and dedicated wife of 45 years, Babby; daughters: Wendy (Ryan) Stevens of Burr Oak and Lynn (Corey) Happner of Sturgis; sons: Jessie (Nikki) PeDue of Coldwater, Joe (Ashley) PeDue of Sturgis; 21 grandchildren, six great grandchildren, sister: Bonnie Seeley of Michigan City, Indiana and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers: Roger PeDue who was a casualty in Vietnam and Johnny PeDue and half-brother: Kenneth PeDue.

In honoring Lynn’s wishes cremation has taken place. Private family services will full military honors being conferred by Captain John J. Kelley Post #1355 and the U.S. Marine Corp Honor Guards will be held at a later date.

The Hackman Family Funeral Homes of Sturgis is entrusted with the arrangements.

The family suggests those wishing to make a memorial donation in Lynn’s memory consider the Playing for Payton Fund, 310 N. Franks Ave., Sturgis, MI 49091.

We encourage relatives and friends to share memories and condolences at www.hackmanfamilyfuneralhomes.com.