South Bend community, family mourn the death of Ernestine M. Raclin
SOUTH BEND ― Community benefactor and former chairman of 1st Source Bank Ernestine M. Raclin died Thursday at the age of 95.
Among other things, Raclin was instrumental in the formation of Indiana University South Bend along with her late husband, O.C. Carmichael, in the early 1970s. The campus' school of the arts is named for her.
The youngest daughter of E.M. Morris, her family name is on several buildings in the community as well at the University of Notre Dame, demonstrating her philanthropy and community leadership.
Born and raised in South Bend, Raclin served as chairman of 1st Source Bank and 1st Source Corporation for over 20 years and spent considerable time aimed at improving the community with a special emphasis on economic development, arts, education and human services.
“Our family is not only grieving the loss of a caring and wonderful mother and grandmother, but also the loss of a mentor, advisor, friend and an endless source of wit, wisdom and love,” Raclin's son-in-law Chris Murphy, chairman of 1st Source Bank and chairman, president and CEO of 1st Source Corp., said in a press release.
Beyond her efforts to improve the community, Raclin also set the standard for 1st Source, Murphy said.
"Her values informed how 1st Source does business every day and how our family prioritizes the wellbeing of our hometown," he added. "Her legacy will live on through her philanthropy and through our continued commitment to community leadership and business growth.”
Among other accomplishments, Raclin was the first woman in the country to chair a local United Way chapter, serve on the United Way of America's National Board of Governors and serve as trustee of the University of Notre Dame. She also was the first woman to head Project Future and to serve on the board of the St. Joseph County Chamber of Commerce.
Additionally, she was co-founder of WNIT, Michiana Public Television Corporation and Stanley Clark School.
"The IU South Bend community is saddened to learn of Mrs. Raclin’s passing," said Susan Elrod, chancellor of IUSB. "Her passion for the arts and its transformative power live on, every day, in the programs we offer in communication studies, fine arts, music, theatre and dance for our students and our community."
Mark Herriman, interim CEO of United Way of St. Joseph County, said Raclin's passion for the well-being of the community was unsurpassed. "We are forever grateful for her inspiring community leadership and fierce dedication to public good," he said in the same release.
The Rev. John I. Jenkins, president of Notre Dame, said Raclin brought a wise and steady presence to the board of trustees and was a transformative benefactor to the university. "She has also been a dear friend to me and many, and, while we grieve her passing, we celebrate a life well-lived. My prayers and those of the entire Notre Dame community are with her family and friends.”
Visitation is set for July 18 from 2:30 to 3:15 p.m. at Notre Dame's Basilica of the Sacred Heart. Memorial service will follow at 3:30 p.m.
Palmer Funeral Homes is handling the arrangements.
This story will be updated as it develops.
Email Tribune staff writer Ed Semmler at esemmler@sbtinfo.com.
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This article originally appeared on South Bend Tribune: South Bend community philanthropist Ernestine M. Raclin dies at 95
