Ethridge, Michael

Michael A. “Chick” Ethridge, 65, of New Baden, died Thursday, December 8, 2011 at St. Joseph Hospital in Breese. He was born October 5, 1946 in Breese, son of Ralph and Margie (Beelman) Ethridge, Sr. He married Judy Lodes on November 24, 1966 at St. Mary’s Church in Trenton and she survives in New Baden. In addition to his wife, he is survived by two daughters, Michelle “Shelly” Ethridge of Belleville and Kim (Rich) Dumstorff, Jr. of Trenton; two grandchildren, Drew Dumstorff and Emma Dumstorff; a sister, Peggy (Charles) Lowder of Trenton; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Alice Maxfield, Bernice Lodes, Ralph and Ruth Lodes, and Mary Billhartz all of New Baden, Arnie and Anita Lodes of Hershey, PA, and Becky and Don Schaefer of Swansea. He is also survived by special family friends, Kathy and Mel and nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Ralph Ethridge, Jr. and Patrick Ethridge; brothers-in-law, Cal Maxfield, George G. Lodes, “Hon” Lodes, Clarence Billhartz; a sister-in-law, Gert Lodes; and his father-in-law and mother-in-law, George and Emma Lodes, Sr. Mr. Ethridge was in Wonder Bread Sales for Continental Bakery for 30 years and was the recipient of a 30 year safe driving award. He was a veteran of the United States Marine Corps serving in Vietnam. He was a member of St. George Parish in New Baden, the American Legion Post 321 and the New Baden Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3642. Chick enjoyed following his daughters’ and grandchildren’s education and career paths. He loved the outdoors and spending time with his family. Memorial Mass will be held at 10 a.m. on Monday, December 12, 2011 at St. George Catholic Church in New Baden with his nephew, Rev. Dale Maxfield officiating. Burial with full military honors will follow at Resurrection Cemetery in New Baden. Friends may call from 4 p.m. until 8 p.m. Sunday, December 11, 2011 and from 8 a.m. until 9:30 a.m. on Monday, December 12, 2011 at Hempen Funeral Home in New Baden. There will be a prayer service at 5 p.m. and the American Legion will visit at 7 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to Clinton County Relay For Life and will be received at the funeral home.