Juanita A. Hamblin

Juanita A. Hamblin, nee DeGroot, age 93, of St. John, IN, formerly of Crete, IL, passed away Wednesday, November 6, 2024. Beloved wife of 50 years to the late Gene Hamblin. Loving mother of Deborah, Becky, Joel (Mylene), and Rachel (Ron). Cherished grandmother of Michael Goodpaster, Christina Yates, Laura Orange, Ken Lesniewski, Christopher White, Noah Hamblin, Melissa Bergstrom, Matthew Marshall, Kristy Marshall, Joshua Marshall, many great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.  Aunt of many nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by her parents Carl and Leone DeGroot, and two sisters and two brothers. She is also survived by two brothers. Juanita found her second love in Robert Sloniger until his death 14 years later.  Special thanks to Cliff Cary and Linda O’Sullivan and the caring staff at Park Place and Providence Hospice.  Juanita was dearly loved by her family and friends and will be missed.

Juanita worked for 30 years as Inventory Control Manager at G.W. Berkheimer. She had her private pilot license and was Chapter Chairman of The Ninety-Nines International Womens Pilot Association.  Juanita was a founding member of Central Christian Church. She enjoyed photography and provided professional services for friends and family. Family was important and she was always ready to help those in need.

Visitation Monday, November 11, 2024 from 4:00 - 8:00 p.m. at Smits Funeral Home 2121 Pleasant Springs Lane (Rt.30/Pleasant Springs Ln.) Dyer, IN. Visitation also Tuesday, November 12, 2024 from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the funeral service at 10:30 a.m. at Smits Funeral Home with Pastor Lance Hurley officiating.  Interment Skyline Memorial Park – Monee, IL.  Memorial contributions may be given to Crossroads Church Partners ( https://www.crossroadschurchpartners.org/ )  For information, please contact 219-322-7300 or visit our online obituary and guest book at www.SMITSFH.com