Warsaw Architect Rudisel-Jordan Killed in Car Accident
Posted
David Slone-dslone@timesuniononline.com
WABASH – Local architect Mary Ellen Rudisel-Jordan was killed in a car accident Thursday afternoon. According to a press release from the Wabash County Sheriff’s Department, at approximately 3:03 p.m. Thursday, officers responded to a head-on crash on Ind. 15, just north of CR 1400N in Wabash County. Preliminary investigation shows that a southbound 2014 Chevrolet Impala, being driven by a Carl W. Burt, 60, Warsaw, crossed the center line and struck Jordan’s northbound 2013 Ford Focus. The stretch of road the accident occurred on includes a “No Passing Zone” for the southbound vehicle. Jordan was pronounced dead at the scene by the Wabash County coroner. Burt was airlifted to Parkview Hospital with unknown injuries. According to a Parkview Hospital spokesperson this morning, Burt is in stable condition. Jordan served on the Warsaw Board of Zoning Appeals. Her architectural firm oversaw the new city hall renovations and the plaza work currently being done. “I heard about it this morning and I’m just sick,” Warsaw Mayor Joe Thallemer said this morning. “I’m in shock.” Jordan was involved in numerous projects in the city aside from serving on the zoning board. “She was just a great public servant and she certainly left her mark on this community,” Thallemer said. Jordan was instrumental in the design of the new city hall and her influence on that project continues today. “She always wore a smile and carried a positive attitude. She served this community well. What do you say? I just can’t believe it,” Thallemer said. “She will be missed by her family and friends and the city.” City Planner Jeremy Skinner said, “Obviously, she participated in numerous planning activities like the Ball State charette we just completed.” She also did the third-floor renovation design work for OrthoWorx at the city hall. “She’s a great person to work with,” Skinner said. “She always had a sunny disposition. Always smiling. Even if you needed something changed or corrected, she never made you feel like it was a big issue. She made it seem small. She was a great person to work with.” The Wabash County coroner, Pleasant Township Fire Department, Chester Township Fire Department, Wabash County EMA, Wabash City Police Department and North Manchester LifeMed assisted at the scene. The investigation is ongoing.
