Michele (Willms) Pankop, 61, of Garrett, Indiana died Thursday, May 4, 2023, at her residence with her family at her side.

She was the daughter of Gordon E. Willms, Jr. and Mary C. Willms.

She was born on November 16, 1961 in Fort Wayne to Robert G. Boxell and Mary C. Laisure.

Michele worked at Machine Rite Products in LaGrange for 25 years, Miller's Merry Manor, and Northeastern Center for 11 years.

She was a member of Helmer United Methodist Church in Helmer and Eagles 1357.

Michelle loved flowers and anything to do with water.

Surviving are her husband of eight years, Larry Dean Pankop of Garrett; three children, Cory (Emily) Fisher of Fort Wayne, Shanna (Seth) Maughler of Hudson, and Trist (Spencer) Wooster of Huntertown; two stepsons, Heath (Heather) Pankop of Corunna and Zane Pankop of Corunna; three grandsons; a step granddaughter; her mother, Mary C. Willms of Wall Lake, Orland; her father, Robert G. Boxell of Angola and Florida; and a sister, Tammy Cattron of Fort Wayne.

She was preceded in death by her stepfather, Gordon E. Willms, Jr. and her husband, Jerry W. Hilbish.

A memorial service will be Monday, May 15, 2023 at 11 a.m. at the Helmer United Methodist Church, 7530 S State Road 327, Helmer with Pastor Donna Holcomb officiating.

Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the church on Monday, May 15, 2023.

Preferred memorials are to Helmer United Methodist Church.

Young Family Funeral Home, Kendallville Chapel, 222 South State Street, Kendallville is assisting the family with arrangements.

Share memories and condolences at www.youngfamilyfuneralhome.com