Howard L. Zarse, 85, of Chalmers, died at 5:10 p.m. Monday, October 26, 2009 in Monticello Assisted Living & Healthcare. He was born December 21, 1923 in White County to the late Emil and Ella (Mann) Zarse. He was a 1942 graduate of Chalmers High School. He was engaged in farming with his father before attending DePauw University for one year then transferring to Indiana University where he graduated in 1952. Mr. Zarse worked for a public accounting firm in Chicago for many years before being employed at The University of Chicago as one of their head accountants, retiring in 1978. After his retirement he moved back to White county where he worked several years for the Twin Lakes School Corporation. His first marriage was to Betty Frances Whitman in 1958 at The University of Chicago. She died in 1968. He then married Betty Jean (Cearing) Stacey in LaPorte. She died in 1990. His last marriage was to Marjorie Ellen (Culver) Woods on December 12, 1991 in Chalmers. She survives. Mr. Zarse was a member of the Chalmers Community Church. He enjoyed crossword puzzles and reading. Surviving with his wife are a brother, Richard Zarse (wife: Joy) of Alexandria, Indiana and four step-children, Roger Woods (wife: Nancy) of Reynolds, Gary Woods (wife: Brenda) of Chalmers, Janet Woods Crowder (husband: Wayne) of Covington and Janice Allen Klingler (husband: James) of Elkhart, Indiana. Also surviving are 10 step-grandchildren and 12 step-great-grandchildren. Preceding him in death with his parents are a brother, Edwin Zarse and a sister, Alma Rush. Friends may call from 12 p.m. (Noon) (EST) until the time of service at 2 p.m. Thursday, October 29, 2009 at Hartzler-Clapper Funeral Home, Brookston. Pastor Bill Henderson to officiate. Interment to follow in Chalmers Community Cemetery. Memorials may be made in his name to the Chalmers Community Church or Chalmers Community Cemetery.