Alan R. Loomis

Alan R. Loomis, 77, of Valparaiso, passed away on Monday, March 19, 2012. He was born in Ottawa, IL on September 16, 1934 to Clifford and Winifred (Latimer) Loomis. Preceded in death by an older brother, Richard; and his parents. Alan attended the elementary school in Ottawa and graduated from Ottawa Township High School in 1952. He received an undergraduate degree from Millikin University, Decatur, IL, a Master's Degree in Geography from Northern Illinois University, and a Master's Degree in Earth Science from the University of Notre Dame. He served in the U.S. Army from 1957 to 1959. Following his Army service, he taught Junior High School in Dundee, IL, for seven years. Alan married Gretchen Miller of Valparaiso, IN on June 16, 1963. In 1966 they moved to Valparaiso, IN, where he taught science in the Middle School of Chesterton, IN and Merrillville, IN. He retired from the Merrillville School Corporation in 1994. Mr. Loomis was a member of the SUVCW Organization following his retirement. In 1995-1997 he served as Commander-in-chief of the SUVCW. In addition he was chairman of the Lincoln Tomb Cemetery, Springfield, IL. Surviving is his wife, Gretchen of Valparaiso; a son, Dale Loomis; and nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be held Friday, March 23, 2012 at 11:00 AM at Bartholomew Funeral Home, 102 Monroe Street, Valparaiso with Pastor Denver Ayres officiating. Burial will be in Memorial Park Cemetery, Valparaiso, IN. Visitation will be held Thursday from 4:00-7:00 PM at Bartholomew Funeral Home. To sign a guestbook for Alan, please visit: bartholomewnewhard.com

Obituary credit: The Times