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Versailles Indiana
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Obituaries
for Year 2019
Ronald Dean Strunk, 79, of Versailles passed away Monday, December 9, 2019 at the Kings Daughters Hospital in Madison. He was born in Oneida, Tennessee on November 26, 1940 the son of Beatty and Maude Goodman Strunk. Survivors include his daughters Tracy and Deanna of Oregon, Sherry of California, and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brothers Edward, Billy, Herman, Willis, Clyde, Harold, and Jr., and his sister Leona. Ronald had formerly lived in Oregon and worked as an auto body technician. Funeral services will be held at 7pm, Wednesday, December 18 at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Pastor Doug Cornett officiating. Visitation will begin at 5pm. Memorials may be given to the donor’s choice in care of the funeral home.
Inez R Smith (Sedam), aged 93, passed away Sunday, December 8, 2019 in Jamestown, NC. Prior to that she had moved from Green Valley, Az to Greensboro, NC in 2013. She was born in Cross Plains on Dec. 29, 1925 to J Melvin and Eunice Linkmeyer Sedam. She was married to Edwin Smith on September 6, 1946 and he preceded her in death on November 3, 1982. Survivors include one son Dane (Melissa) Smith of Ft. Myers, Florida; one daughter Diana (David) Slater of Madison, North Carolina; two granddaughters Kim Parrish of Greensboro, North Carolina and Karen (Kerry) Kopka of Westville, IN; three great-grandchildren Grace Hennard and Kerstin Parrish of Greensboro and Alex Morlan of Valparaiso; one sister Audrey Buente of Versailles; two brothers Marion “Sonny” Sedam of Indianapolis and Richard (Janice) Sedam of Carmel. She was also preceded in death by her parents. Inez was a 1944 graduate of Cross Plains High School. Following High School, she graduated from Canterbury College with a Bachelor of Science degree in three years. She married Edwin P Smith in 1946. at the St Paul Evangelical Lutheran in Olean and was confirmed and baptized in the Lutheran faith there.In 1957 she earned her Masters of Arts degree in Education. In 1959 and 1960 she was invited as the only representative from Indiana to attend two summer sessions at Wayne State University, in Detroit, Mi for Post Graduate work in higher math. Her teaching career included Cross Plains, Van Buren Township (Nashville), Middletown, Mill Creek, and Boston Jr. High School, La Porte. All schools were in Indiana. She and Edwin were long time communicant members of St John Evangelical Lutheran Church in LaPorte. Upon retiring from their teaching careers they moved to Green Valley, AZ where Inez served several terms as Treasurer at the Lutheran Church of the Risen Savior. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, December 14th at 11am at the St. Paul Lutheran Church in Olean with Pastor Curtis Black officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Visitation will be on Friday from 5pm to 7pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles. Memorials may be given to the St. Paul Cemetery in care of the funeral home.
Shirley Manning, 73, of Versailles passed away peacefully with her family at her side on Tuesday, December 10, 2019. Shirley, a small but mighty lady, fought a brave, courageous six year battle with Neuroendocrine cancer of the lung. In April of this year she was given only a couple of months to live, but her family said she was one of the bravest fighters they had ever seen. She was born at Dunville in Newfoundland, Canada the daughter of William and Hazel Abbott Elliott. She is survived by her daughter Fern (John) Baumer of Batesville; one son Brad (Becky) Walker of Louisville; grandchildren Jake, Olivia, and Katie Baumer of Batesville, and Molly and Owen Walker of Louisville; three brothers Irving Elliott and Bill (Kathleen) Elliott, and Ed (Gloria) Elliott all of Newfoundland; three sisters Alma Elliott of Nova Scotia, Elaine (Frank) Sullivan of Allenstown, New Hampshire, and Christine (Jon) Walton of Ontario. She was preceded in death by her parents, and her husband Donald Manning who passed away in 2004. Shirley moved to the United States 50 years ago after marrying US sailor from Batesville. After being a homemaker for many years, she was an assistant manager at the Batesville Hardees. Her and Don traveled the US in their RV and also traveled back to her homeland Newfoundland, Canada. She moved back to Versailles to be closer to family and began a part time job at Butternut Bread in Versailles. She would always love to bring her family hostess treats, especially her son-in-law Hunk. She was an avid card player and belonged to a senior card club and enjoyed the many friends she met while living in the senior housing at Versailles. Most of all she adored her children and grandchildren and would always try to make it to all of their events. Family was a priority and taking a trip back to Newfoundland for a family reunion was a highlight. She was truly a loyal friend and a woman of integrity. She was also a woman of great faith and was a member of the New Testament Church of Christ in Osgood. Funeral services will be held at 1pm, Saturday, December 14th at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Bro. Irvin Hart officiating. Burial will be in the Old Salem Cemetery near Batesville. Visitation will be on Friday from 4pm to 7pm. Memorials may be given to Our Hospice of South Central Indiana or the Old Salem Cemetery in care of the funeral home.
Former Ripley County resident Mildred E. “Betty” Lowe passed away at 5:15am, Monday, December 2, 2019, two days before her 97th birthday at the Swiss Villa in Vevay. She was born near Quercus Grove in Switzerland County on December 4, 1922 the daughter of William Hubert and Grace Wilson Lowe. She is survived by her niece Joyce Lowe Dwulet of Greenwood, and nephews Jerry Lowe of Bloomington, and William, David, and Michael Lowe of Virginia. She was preceded in death by her parents, and her brothers William Lowe and Walter Lowe. Ms. Lowe was a 1940 graduate of Versailles High School and was a member of the Tyson United Methodist Church in Versailles. Betty was handicapped early in life and the Swiss Villa in Vevay had been her home for the last 15 years. Graveside services will be held on Friday, December 6th at 2pm at the Cliff Hill Cemetery in Versailles. Memorials may be given to the Cliff Hill Cemetery or the Tyson United Methodist Church in care of the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles.
Jeffrey A. Ficklin, 47, of Madison passed away Monday, November 18, 2019 at his home. He was born at the Kings Daughters Hospital in Madison on April 4, 1972 the son of Donald and Eva Sproessig Ficklin. Survivors include two brothers Tim (Carrie) Ficklin of Rising Sun, and Robert Ficklin of Palmyra; nephews Dustin Whiteford and Taylor Ficklin, nieces Katelynne Whiteford and Sophia Ficklin, and great-nephew Dallas Whiteford. He was preceded in death by his parents. Jeff was a 1990 graduate of South Ripley High School and was currently employed with Nucor Steel at Ghent, Kentucky where he worked in quality control. He was a former employee of Sentry Tubing in Madison, the Jefferson County Correctional Facility, and had worked as a Reserve Deputy for the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Department. Jeff was a member of the Holton United Methodist Church, a former member of the Indiana National Guard, and had been active in Big Brothers/ Big Sisters in Jefferson County. In his spare time he enjoyed hunting and fishing. Funeral services will be held at 11am on Saturday, November 23rd at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Pastor Joseph Hart of the Bible Baptist Church in Greendale officiating. Burial will be in the Holton Cemetery. Visitation will be on Friday from 5pm to 8pm. Memorials may be given to Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Jefferson County in care of the funeral home.
Frank G. Holman, 49, of Vevay passed away at 10:10pm, Tuesday, October 29, 2019 at his home. He was born in Greensburg on May 15, 1970 and is survived by his father Harry (Bernadette) Holman of Versailles and his mother Nora Sawyer Maki of Holton. Frank was married to Volina Stultz on July 27, 2013 and she also survives. Other survivors include two sons Frank T. (Cayla) Holman of Hanover and Jake G. Holman and his companion Nicole Fish of Columbus; one daughter Sydney Holman and her companion Trent Mason of Batesville; one step-son Josh (Thera) South, and one step-daughter Jenna South both of Vevay; 10 grandchildren; three brothers Vincent Holman of Milan, Harry Jr. (Michelle) Holman of New Marion, and Bryce (Samantha) Holman of Olean. He was preceded in death by his daughter Shelby. Frank was a 1988 graduate of South Ripley High School and he had been a heavy equipment operator for both Roy Holman and Mike Holman in Versailles. He enjoyed fishing and hunting and was very proud to have owned and operated Big Al’s Septic Service in Vevay since 2011. He also enjoyed tending to his goats and his chickens, affectionately known as his “babies”. Funeral services for Frank will be held on Saturday, November 2nd at 10:30am at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Rev. David Blazier officiating. Burial will be in the New Marion Cemetery. Visitation will be on Friday from 4pm to 7pm. Memorials may be given to High Point Hospice or the New Marion Cemetery in care of the funeral home.
Mary F. Ensminger, 76, of Versailles passed away at 12:30pm, Thursday, October 17, 2019 at the Margaret Mary Community Hospital in Batesville. She was born on May 13, 1943 the daughter of Fred and Ethel Busch Ensminger. Mary’s father was a pilot in WWII and was killed near New Guinea during the war so she never got to see her Dad. On October 22, 1948 her mother married Henry Stegemoller and Mary was blessed with two brothers, Alan Stegemoller of North Venice, Florida, and Jerry (Joye) Stegemoller of Cincinnati, and also a niece and nephew. Mary was a 1961 graduate of Versailles High School and attended Indiana University. She was disabled and after the death of her mother on December 27, 2015 she became a resident of the Manderley Health Care Center in Osgood. Mary was a member of the St. Paul Lutheran Church in Olean. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, October 22nd at 11am at the St. Paul Lutheran Church with Pastor Curtis Black officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Visitation will also be on Tuesday and will be held at the church beginning at 10am. Memorials may be given to the church or cemetery in care of the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles.
Curtis A. Sebree, 88, of Madison passed away Saturday, October 12, 2019 at the Norton Hospital in Louisville. He was born near Lawrenceburg on December 24, 1930 the son of William and Mandy Beach Sebree. He was married to Mary Richardson on April 11, 1959 and his wife of 60 years survives. Other survivors include one daughter Brenda Hayes of Edmond, Oklahoma; two grandchildren Joshua Hayes and Sasha Hayes also of Edmond; five great-grandchildren; two brothers Junior (Barb) Sebree of Kearney, Nebraska, and Earl (Freda) Sebree of Rexville. He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Charles, Bobby, James, Albert, Jack, Frank, and Joseph Sebree, and his sisters Carolyn and Ressie Sebree, Betty Lou Wood, Evaline Rassman, and Bertha Carter. Mr. Sebree was a former employee of US Waste Material in Lawrenceburg, and for 31 years worked as an encapsulator, assembling oil well motors for underwater drilling for Byron & Jackson in Lawrenceburg. When the company moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma he and Mary also moved with his job. Curtis was a Coca-Cola memorabilia collector and belonged to the Coca-Cola Clan. He also enjoyed bowling, fishing, going to flea markets, and all sports, especially following the Reds. Curtis was a member of the Shelby Christian Church. Funeral services will be held on Thursday, October 17th at 11am at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Pastor Dwayne Barrows officiating. Burial will be in the Shelby Cemetery. Visitation will also be on Thursday beginning at 9:30am. Memorials may be given to the Shelby Cemetery in care of the funeral home.
Donna Jo (Bonfer) Lafary, 86, of Versailles passed away on Friday, October 11, 2019 at her home. She was born in the Versailles area on April 11, 1933, the daughter of Lane and Amy Louella (Greenwood) Bonfer. She was married to Robert E. Lafary Sr. on July 8, 1950 and he preceded her in death on July 25, 1995. Other survivors include one daughter, Lisa (Butch) Allee of Versailles, daughter-in-law Kris Lafary of Versailles; grandchildren Amy Jo Lafary of Champaign, Illinois, Dustin (Kristin) Allee, Dane (Jody) Allee, Shannon (Kenny) Benham, Rob Lafary and Faith Lafary, all of Versailles; great-grandchildren Tyler, Tayler and Allee Benham, Emma Heidt, Ella and Ava Allee and Lane Allee. She is also survived by her friend, Lorenzo Gonzalez. She was preceded in death by her son, Robert E. Lafary Jr. Mrs. Lafary attended Versailles High School and received her diploma from South Ripley High School in 1968. Donna Jo was best known for serving the town of Versailles in the restaurant business. For 35 years, Donna Jo and Robert Sr. operated restaurants, starting as part owners of the White Pine restaurant before taking over as owners of the Colonial Cottage. In 1977, the couple took over the Malt Bar which became known as Lafary's Restaurant and operated it until 1991. In later years, Mrs. Lafary was employed by Bovard's Funeral Home, the Southeastern Career Center and was a long-time employee of Hardy Insurance in Versailles. She was also a member of the Versailles Baptist Church. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, October 16th at 11 am at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Rev. Rick Burcham officiating. Burial will be in the Cliff Hill Cemetery in Versailles. Visitation will be on Tuesday from 5 pm to 8 pm. Memorials may be given to the Cliff Hill Cemetery in care of the funeral home.
Marietta T. Curran, 51, of Versailles passed away 9:30am, Sunday, October 6, 2019 at her residence. She was born at Greensburg, Indiana on May 2, 1968 the daughter of Joseph and Christine Voss Brandewiede. She was married to Jack Lee Curran on February 3, 1990 and her husband of 29 years survives. Other survivors include three sons; Daniel, James and Jacob and one daughter Joanne Curran all of Versailles. She was preceded in death by her daughter, Michelle and her parents. Marietta was a homemaker and loved horses, cooking for her family and crocheting. She was also a member of the Bear Creek Baptist Church in Friendship, Indiana. Her wishes were to be cremated, the family will have a private burial in Flat Rock Cemetery at their convenience with Sherman Hughes officiating.
“Across the years I will walk with You in deep, green forest; on shores of sand; and when our time on earth is through, in heaven, too, You will have my hand.”
Hulbert C. Brewer, Sr., 86, of Holton passed away at 8am, Saturday, October 5, 2019 at his home. He was born near Rogers in Wolfe County, Kentucky on September 8, 1933 the youngest of 12 children born to William and Laura Bryant Brewer. He was married to Ruby King on January 19, 1952 and his wife of 67 years survives. Other survivors include three sons William (Linda) Brewer, Hulbert C. Brewer Jr. and his companion Hallie Silverthorne, and Frank Brewer all of Holton; two daughters Teresa Sandlin of Louisville, Tennessee, and Kim (Chuck) Klein of Indianapolis; 14 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, son-in-law Ace Sandlin, 6 sisters, and 5 brothers. Mr. Brewer was an Army veteran of the Korean War where he served from 1954 to 1956 in the 101st Airborne as a paratrooper. In 1962 he and Ruby settled on their farm east of Holton where spent the remainder of his life. Hulbert was a brick mason where he worked independently as well as union. He also farmed and in retirement he spent eight years as a driver for Catch-a-Ride. Hulbert played the mandolin and he enjoyed collecting knives and watches. Hulbert was a 58 year member of the Naomi Primitive Baptist Church in Wolfe County, Kentucky, a 52 year member of the Holton Masonic Lodge, 58 year member of the Bricklayers Union, and was also a member of the Shriners and the Indianapolis Valley Scottish Rite. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, October 9th at 11am at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Rev. Ty Choate of the Hopewell Baptist Church officiating. Burial will be in the Cliff Hill Cemetery in Versailles with military graveside rites by the Versailles American Legion. Visitation will be on Tuesday from 5pm to 8pm with the Holton Masonic Lodge conducting services at 8pm. Memorials may be given to the Cliff Hill Cemetery or the Holton Masonic Lodge in care of the funeral home.
Harry J. Bishofberger, 78, of Rexville passed away at his home at 11:30pm, Thursday, October 3, 2019. He was born in California on June 16, 1941 and was married to Retha Mains and she survives. Other survivors include one step-daughter Michelle McDonald of Rexville, and three grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his step-son Michael Collins. Harry was a truck driver having driven for North Star and also Transport America. He was a member of the West Fork Baptist Church. Harry’s wishes were to be cremated and services will be held at the convenience of the family. Burial will be in the West Fork Cemetery at Rexville with the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles in charge of arrangements.
David L. Wilson, 69, of Osgood passed away at 5am, Friday, September 20, 2019 at his home. He was born in Greensburg on October 9, 1949 the son of Leslie and Joyce Holzhause Wilson. He was married to Debra Dudley on February 18, 1972 and she survives. Other survivors include his mother Joyce Wilson of Napoleon; one son Jeffrey (Kelly) Wilson of Fishers; two daughters Sherry Stagge of Carmel and Amber Wilson of Cincinnati, and 8 grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his father and his sister Karen Koehne. Mr. Wilson was a 1967 graduate of Jac-Cen-Del High School and had attended Purdue University. He owned and operated D. L. Wilson Equipment in Milroy. David also operated a sawmill and raised cattle. In his spare time he enjoyed fishing and being with his grandchildren. Funeral services will be held on Sunday, September 22nd at 5pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Pastor Jack Dixon of the St. John Lutheran Church in Napoleon officiating. Visitation will begin at 3pm. Memorials may be given to the Margaret Mary Hospice or the St. John Lutheran Cemetery in care of the funeral home.
Rev. Raymond E. Fitzsimmons, Sr., 94, of Versailles passed away at 7:40pm, Monday, September 16, 2019 at the Manderley Health Care Center in Osgood. He was born at home near Bainbridge in Putnam County, Indiana on August 5, 1925 the son of George and Daisy Hale Fitzsimmons. He was married to Barbara Flentge on June 12, 1947 and she preceded him in death on October 22, 2015. Survivors include four sons Raymond Jr. (Zoie) Fitzsimmons of Elizabethtown, Pennsylvania, Bruce (Sara) Fitzsimmons of Versailles, Galen (Becky) Fitzsimmons of Indianapolis, and Dean (Martha) Fitzsimmons of Kansas City, Missouri; one daughter Freda (Gary) Warinner of Alton, Illinois; 21 grandchildren and 38 great-grandchildren; one sister Norma Jean Bishop of North Salem. He was also preceded in death by his parents, his brothers Tom, Bill, Bob, and Mike Fitzsimmons, and his sister Ruby Murphy. Rev. Fitzsimmons was a 1943 graduate of Bainbridge High School and a 1950 graduate of the Columbia, South Carolina Bible College. He was an Army veteran of WWII, enlisting in the military on January 12, 1944. He served as a Staff Sergeant in the 309th Infantry seeing action in the Rhineland Campaign. For service to his country Rev. Fitzsimmons was awarded the Good Conduct Medal, Middle Eastern Campaign Ribbon with one Bronze Star, the Oak Leaf Cluster with one Bronze Star, and the Purple Heart for wounds received on March 19, 1945 in Germany. After his discharge from the military on September 21, 1945 Rev. Fitzsimmons pastored churches in Darlington, Indiana, Boise Idaho, Willard, Ohio, and also in northern California and Oregon doing missionary work and church planting. He was also in charge of the Campus Bible Fellowship at the University of Wisconsin at Plattsville, Wisconsin and was a former employee of Montgomery Ward in Crawfordsville. In his spare time he enjoyed woodworking and had made custom cabinets and furniture as well as communion tables and pulpits. Rev. Fitzsimmons was a member of the Washington Baptist Church at Elrod. Funeral services will be held at 7pm on Monday, September 23rd at the Washington Baptist Church in Elrod with his son Rev. Bruce Fitzsimmons officiating. Visitation will also be at the church beginning at 5pm. Burial will be on Tuesday, September 24th at 10:30am at the Roachdale (IN) Cemetery with military graveside rites. Memorials may be given to the Washington Baptist Missionary Fund in care of the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles.
Edgar Lee Swinney, 89, of Versailles passed away at 1am, Friday, September 13, 2019 at his home. He was born near New Marion on February 3, 1930 the son of Culver and Ethel Viola Andress Swinney. On November 6, 1949 he married a beautiful lady Ruth Ann Kamman at the Tyson Methodist Church in Versailles. They bought a farm west of Osgood and Ruth Ann passed away on August 19, 2007. They had two wonderful children David and Lisa. David married Melinda Sue Renfro on December 15, 1979 and they had three children, Matthew Ryan, Samantha Crystal, and Rebecca Leah. Matthew married Bridget Ann Miller and their children are Sara Leeann and Zachary Daniel. Samantha has one son Jamieson Lee. Rebecca married Jarred Westerfeld and they have two children John David Wayne and Annaleah Sue. Lisa married David Lee Ebinger on March 22, 1980 and they had two sons Jeremy David and Joshua Edward. Jeremy died on February 23, 2002 at the age of 20. Joshua has five children Austin Joseph, Jeremy David, Alexis Renea, Jaelynn Nicole, and Isabella Beth. Edgar is also survived by his brother Robert Wayne (Carole) Swinney of Canaan, and his sister-in-law Jill Swinney of Greensburg. On November 29, 2008 he married a lovely lady Joyce Julia Klusman at the Hopewell Baptist Church and she survives. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother Leslie Ray Swinney. Edgar Lee was a 1948 graduate of New Marion High School. He served in the United States Marine Corps from 1952-1954 as a Sergeant during the Korean War. His boot camp was in San Diego and he was later stationed at Santa Ana, California Air Base. He was also stationed in Japan for six months with a helicopter squadron where his duties included filing and payroll for the 150 man squad. For service to his country Edgar Lee received the National Defense Service Medal, the Korean Service Medal, and the United Nations Service Medal. In civilian life he worked at Allisons General Motors in Indianapolis for nine years. He was also a farmer and raised and fed cattle from 1956 until his retirement in 2007. Edgar Lee was on the board of directors for the Ripley County Bank for 15 years and was a director for the Ripley County Farm Bureau for 6 years. He was a former member of the New Marion Baptist Church and was a 62 year member of the Hopewell Baptist Church where he had served as a trustee. He was a 58 year member of the Osgood Masonic Lodge and was active in Republican politics, serving on the Center Township Advisory Board for 6 years. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, September 17th at 11am at the Hopewell Baptist Church with Rev. Ty Choate officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery with military graveside rites by the Versailles American Legion. Visitation will be on Monday from 4pm to 8pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles and from 10am until time of services Tuesday at the church. The Osgood Masonic Lodge will conduct services at 8pm Monday at the funeral home. Memorials may be given to the Hopewell Baptist Church building fund or the Hopewell Cemetery in care of the funeral home.
Marsha Ann Back, 66, of Cross Plains passed away at 6:45pm, Thursday, September 5, 2019 at her home. She was born in Lawrenceburg on July 15, 1953 the daughter of Clifton and Thelma Knigga Deamron. She was married to Michael Back on June 29, 1973 and he survives. Other survivors include one son Michael J. (Jana) Back of Westport; two daughters Jennifer (Damon) Ralston of Versailles and Jill (Mike) Schwamberger of Greenfield; 7 grandchildren Devin and Dylan Ralston, Kyler and Colten Schwamberger, Kya and Kyson Back, and Paige Grayson; two brothers Terry (Diane) Deamron of Greenwood and Ricky (Sandy) Deamron of Greensburg; one sister Linda (Ronnie) Sniegowski of Aurora. She was preceded in death by her parents and her father and mother-in-law Orville and Evalee Back. Mrs. Back was a 1971 graduate of Dillsboro High School. She was a former employee of the Belterra casino and also the Rising Star casino where she worked as a reservation clerk. She also assisted Mike on the farm and loved spending time with her kids and grandkids. Marsha was a member of the Bear Creek Baptist Church at Friendship. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, September 10th at 10:30am at the Bear Creek Baptist Church with Rev. Sherman Hughes officiating. Burial will be in the Grandview Memorial Garden near Madison. Visitation will be on Monday from 5pm to 8pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles and from 9:30am until time of services Tuesday at the church. Memorials may be given to the Bear Creek Baptist Church in care of the funeral home.
Mark A. Holland, 64, of Versailles passed away at 12:15pm, Sunday, September 1, 2019 at his home. He was born in Milan on June 27, 1955 the son of Houston and Dolly Gordon Holland. He was married to Janet Thompson on July 14, 1979 and his wife of 40 years survives. Other survivors include one daughter Ashley (Bryan) Redick of Cross Plains; 2 grandsons Branch and Sawyer Redick; four brothers Mike (Debbie) Holland of Dillsboro, Steve (Kathie) Holland of Bay City, Texas, Randal (Kathy) Holland of Canaan, and Tim Holland of Madison; one sister Joyce (Larry) Enzinger of Batesville; also special friends John and Ellen Thornton and Ralph and Faith Ann Wood all of Versailles, and Uncle Tommy Gordon of Dillsboro. He was preceded in death by his parents. Mr. Holland became a self employed truck driver at the age of 18 and in 1990 he and Janet founded Holland Financial in Versailles. The pride and joy of Mark’s life were his grandsons and the time he got to spend with them. He also enjoyed working outside on his farm and was very proud and “protective” of his tractor. Mark was a member of the Cincinnati Church of God and attended the North Vernon Seventh Day Adventist Church. Funeral services will be held on Thursday, September 5th at 1pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Pastor Jim O’Brien and Pastor Harvey Kornegay officiating. Burial will be in the Oakdale Cemetery in Dillsboro. Visitation will be on Wednesday from 5pm to 8pm. Memorials may be given to the Cincinnati Church of God or the North Vernon Seventh Day Adventist Church in care of the funeral home.
Will Clayton, 67, of Osgood passed away at 6:30am, Thursday, August 29, 2019 at his home. He was born in Cleves, Ohio on November 6, 1951 the son of Cecil R. and Margaret Lockridge Clayton. Survivors include one son William R. (Tara) Clayton of Holly Pond, Alabama; one daughter Sally Clayton of Madison; several grandchildren; three brothers Joe (Vickie) Clayton, and Paul (Sandra) Clayton both of Holton, and Tim (Kathy) Clayton of Commiskey; one sister Ruth (Clarence) Hill of Dillsboro; also his brother-in-law James Hall of North Vernon, and his best friend Ron (Becky) Sutton of Holton. He was preceded in death by his son Justin, his parents, and his sister Barbara Hall. Mr. Clayton served in the United States Marine Corps from January of 1968 until 1971. He worked as a welder and ranch foreman at the Triple S Ranch in North Vernon and enjoyed rabbit hunting and was an avid fisherman. Will was a member of the Bethany Baptist Church in Osgood. Will’s wishes were to be cremated and a memorial service will be held on Sunday, September 1st at 5pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Bro. Clarence Hill officiating. Visitation will begin at 4pm. Memorials may be given to the donor’s choice in care of the funeral home.
Sharon Friend, 73, of Dabney passed away at 3:55pm, Monday, August 26, 2019 at the Manderley Health Care Center in Osgood. She was born at Clarksburg in Decatur County on June 12, 1946 the daughter of Hiram and Mary Bowman Forbes. She was married to John Friend on December 18, 1963 and her husband of 55 years survives. Other survivors include one brother Tom Forbes of Rushville; one sister Margaret Grimes of Clay City, Kentucky. She was preceded in death by her parents and her sisters Donna Hittle, Kathy Lewis, and Nina Marie Forbes. Mrs. Friend was a former employee of Wellman Thermal Systems in Shelbyville where she worked in assembly. Sharon had attended the Academy of Dog Grooming in Indianapolis and was the former owner of Fish & Chirps in Osgood. Sharon was a proud and independent person and was always willing to lend a friend a hand. Graveside services for Sharon will be on Thursday, August 29th at 11am at the Stipps Hill Cemetery near Rushville. Memorials may be given to the donor’s choice in care of the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles.
Ruth M. Walsh, 97, of Holton passed away at 5:25pm, Tuesday, July 23, 2019 at the Kings Daughters Hospital in Madison. She was born in Osgood on August 26, 1921 the daughter of Avery and Estelle Whalbring Brower. She was married to John Leslie Walsh on June 13, 1939 and he preceded her in death on February 19, 2011. Survivors include three sons Lloyd Walsh of Versailles, Alan Walsh of Nashville, and David (Janie) Walsh of Malabar, Florida; 10 grandchildren, 28 great-grandchildren, and 20 great-great-grandchildren; one brother Dwight (Virginia) Brower of Bartow, Florida; one sister Joyce (Joe) Hardy of Ft. Defiance, Arizona. She was also preceded in death by her parents, her son Gary, brothers Charles Brower and Avery Brower, Jr., and her daughter-in-law Bernice Walsh. Mrs. Walsh attended grade school at Dabney and was a 1939 graduate of Holton High School. She was a 20 year employee of the Southeastern Career Center in Versailles where she worked as a bookkeeper and was also the schools treasurer. Leslie and Ruth spent their retirement winters in Florida and also traveled all 48 states in the continental US as well as traveling to the Holy Land. Ruth helped organize the Cub Scouts in Versailles and also helped in organizing the PTO in the Versailles Schools. Ruth was a member of the Versailles Baptist Church where she served as a Deaconess, Sunday school teacher, director for the BYF, and sang in the choir. She was a former member of the Ripley County Farm Bureau and the Rebekah Lodge at Holton. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, July 27th at 12pm at the Versailles Baptist Church with Rev. Mike Cantrell officiating. Burial will be in the Holton Cemetery. Visitation will also be at the church beginning at 10am Saturday. Memorials may be given to the Holton Cemetery in care of the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles.
Freeda Mae Hansmann, 90, of Versailles passed away at 8:15am, Wednesday, July 17, 2019 at the Ridge Wood Health Campus in Lawrenceburg. She was born near Canaan in Jefferson County on September 4, 1928 the daughter of Frederick and Myrtle Daleglish Hankins. She was married to Paul Hansmann on February 14, 1948 and he preceded her in death on March 31, 1994. Survivors include one son Paul (Laura) Hansmann, Jr. of Coon Rapids, Minnesota; one grandson Lance (Tiffany) Hansmann of Burnsville, Minnesota; one granddaughter Heather (Joe) Terry of Minnetonka, Minnesota; two great-granddaughters Piper and Paige Terry; one sister Maxine Roberts of Madison. She was also preceded in death by her parents, her son Brad Hansmann, her brothers Mitchell, Loren, David, and William Hankins; and her sisters Lela Elston, Marjorie Mathews, Esther Hoffman, and Loretta Fleek. Mrs. Hansmann was a 1947 graduate of Milan High School. She was a homemaker and a member of the Washington Baptist Church at Elrod. Freeda loved children and for 28 years while Paul’s job took them to different places, she taught pre-school in Springfield, Illinois, Canton, Ohio, Peoria, Illinois, and Sioux City, Nebraska. At the Washington Baptist Church Freeda taught Sunday school and worked with the VBS and Awana program. Another part of her personal ministry was to visit church members and friends in the nursing home. Funeral services will be held on Monday, July 22nd at 11am at the Washington Baptist Church with Rev. Bruce Fitzsimmons officiating. Burial will be in the Grandview Memorial Garden near Madison. Visitation will also be on Monday at the church beginning at 10am. Memorials may be given to the Washington Baptist Church in care of the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles.
Duane Hooton, 80, of Versailles passed away at 10:30am, Sunday, July 14, 2019 at the Kings Daughters Hospital in Madison after a perpetual decline in his health over the past several months. He was born in Cross Plains on January 27, 1939 the son of Roland and Clara Warfield Hooton. Survivors include one son David (Pam) Hooton of Round O, South Carolina; three daughters Dana Hooton of Willow Creek, California, Laura Hooton of Charleston, South Carolina, and Tracy (Jeff) Miller of South Carolina; 4 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren; his twin brother Dwight (Donna) Hooton of Versailles; two sisters Hope (Robert) Fisse of Madison, and Faith Huffman of Lafayette. He was preceded in death by his parents. Duane was a 1957 graduate of Versailles High School. Duane enjoyed having a twin (at least most of the time) and although they were identical, Duane always said he was the good looking one. After high school, Duane delivered Coca-Cola to thirsty customers in southeast Indiana for 18 years, and spent most of his working life thereafter driving a semi for various trucking companies. He was a member of the Bear Creek Baptist Church in Friendship. Duane accepted the Lord as his savior as a young man and was baptized in Munday’s Pool near Dabney alongside his brother Dwight. Duane loved his Lord, his family, and his dog Brady. He also enjoyed fishing, talking politics, and all sports. Duane’s wishes were to be cremated and a celebration of his life will take place on Friday, July 19th at 11am at the Versailles Baptist Church with visitation beginning at 10am. Burial will be in the Marble Corner Cemetery in Versailles. Memorials may be given to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital or the Wounded Warrior Project in care of the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles.
Mary C. Kamman Thayer, 94, of Osgood passed away at 9:50pm, Friday, July 12, 2019 at Ripley Crossing in Milan. She was born in New Marion on October 28, 1924 the daughter of Walter and Leah Bernice Heitmeyer Kamman. She was married to J. Wade Thayer on August 25, 1946 and he preceded her in death on November 20, 2004. Survivors include one son Greg (Yolanda) Thayer of Osgood; one daughter Kaye Ann (Steve) Callen of Milan; four grandsons Brad (Amanda) Callen of Plain City, Ohio, Matt (Julia) Callen of Zionsville, Brian Thayer of Osgood, and Evan (Layla) Thayer of Rockport; 10 great-grandchildren; brother-in-law Edgar Lee (Joyce) Swinney of Versailles. She was also preceded in death by her parents, her brothers John and Walter Kamman, and her sisters Carolyn Kamman and Ruth Ann Swinney. Mrs. Thayer was a 1942 graduate of New Marion High School and also was a graduate of the Indiana Business College in Indianapolis. She worked as a secretary for attorney Ewing Wright in Osgood, was employed with Champion Homes in Lafayette, managed M & W Poultry in Osgood with her husband, and was the former owner-operator of Village Flowers in Osgood. Mary was an avid photographer and gardener, and enjoyed tending to her birds, especially hummingbirds, and butterflies. She loved traveling, boating, spending winters in Florida, and being in the company of her family and friends. She was also an accomplished painter, specializing in china, oil, and water painting. Mary was a member of the Versailles Baptist Church where she participated in the prayer shawl ministry, was a member of the Associate Chapter of Tri-Kappa, and was also a member and past president of the Indiana China Painters Association. Funeral services for Mary will be held on Tuesday, July 16th at 10am at the Versailles Baptist Church with Rev. Mike Cantrell and Rev. Don Buck officiating. Visitation will be on Monday from 4pm to 7pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles and from 9am until time of services Tuesday at the church. The Associate Chapter of Tri-Kappa will conduct services at 6:45pm, Monday at the funeral home. Burial will be at 12:30pm Tuesday at the Hanover Cemetery in Morristown with Rev. Ty Choate of the Hopewell Baptist Church officiating. Memorials may be given to the Versailles Baptist Church, the activities fund at Ripley Crossing, or Tri-Kappa in care of the funeral home.
Floyd D. Hasler, 85, of Versailles passed away at 9:30pm, Monday, July 8, 2019 at Manderley Health Center. He was born in Paxton, Illinois on March 7, 1935 the son of Oliver and Myrl McVaigh Hasler. He was married to Helen McCreary on June 2, 2001 in Columbia Missouri and she survives. Other survivors include one son, Donald (Joyce) Hasler of Paxton IL, one son in law; Carl Sorenson of Cape Coral, FL, step son; James Blevans of Napoleon and step daughter; Roxie (Raymond) Duke of Versailles 10 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, his two daughters; Cathy Sorenson and Donna Kraft. Mr. Hasler was an Implement Dealer in Paxton and retired as a Realtor in Fort Myers, FL. Floyd was a member of the Shelby Christian Church. Funeral services will be held 1:00pm, Thursday, July 11th, 2019 at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Bro. Tim Heim of the Shelby Christian Church officiating. Burial will be in the Glen Cemetery in Paxton, IL at a later date. Visitation will also be on Thursday beginning at 11am. Memorials may be given to the Building Fund for Shelby Christian Church in care of the funeral home.
Pam Wickizer, 71, of Versailles passed away Monday, July 1, 2019 at St. Elizabeth Hospital in Florence, Kentucky. She was born at the Margaret Mary Community Hospital in Batesville on April 26, 1948 the daughter of Nathan and Dolores Branham Banks. She was married to Rick Wickizer on June 21, 1980 and he survives. Other survivors include one daughter Christina (Will) Montague of Lexington, Kentucky; three step-sons Matt Wickizer of Dillsboro, Bryan (Joanne) Wickizer of Versailles, and Joshua (Molly) Wickizer of Cincinnati; one step-daughter Kristie (Dorman) Kelly of Dillsboro; 7 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren. Mrs. Wickizer was a 1966 graduate of Jac-Cen-Del High School. She was a former employee of the Manderley Health Care Center in Osgood, Rolling Pin Bakery in Versailles, and the Goodyear Tire store in Osgood. Pam was a member of the St. John Lutheran Church in Farmers Retreat where she participated in and was past president of the LWML. She was also a former member of the Osgood Library Board. Pam enjoyed her grandchildren, quilting, and was an avid reader. Pam’s wishes were to be cremated and a celebration of her life will be held on Saturday, July 13th at 11am at St. John Lutheran Church with Pastor Garry Wickert officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Visitation will be from 10am until time of services. Memorials may be given to the American Kidney Foundation or the LWML in care of the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles.
Bernard Ray Geisler, 69, of the West Fork community near Rexville passed away at 8:30am, Monday, July 1, 2019 at his home. He was born in the West Fork community on November 27, 1949 the son of Alva and Doris Faye Housefield Geisler. He was married to Debra Kay Pinkerton on December 22, 1970 and she survives. Other survivors include two sons Jeff (Debbie) Geisler of Madison, and Alva (Dawn) Geisler of West Fork; one daughter Jennifer Geisler of Madison; 7 grandchildren and one great-grandchild; three brothers Bobby (Aggie) Geisler of Washington, Elvan (Barb) Geisler of Rexville, and Marvin (Teresa) Geisler of East Enterprise. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brothers George Leslie and Roy, his nephews Larry Gene Wood and Kenny Geisler, and his niece Carolyn Geisler. Mr. Geisler was an Army veteran of the Vietnam War and received the Purple Heart for wounds received on the 21st of January 1970. He was a former employee of the Muscatatuck State Developmental Training Center and was retired from the Jefferson Proving Ground where he worked as a guard. Bernard was also a farmer and enjoyed operating his bulldozer and track hoe. In his spare time he enjoyed his grandchildren, fishing, hunting, woodworking, playing cards, and visiting the local casinos. Funeral services for Bernard will be held on Saturday, July 6th at 11am at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Pastor Jim Scoggin officiating. Burial will be in the Ditch Cemetery on the Geisler Farm near Rexville with military graveside rites by the Versailles American Legion. Visitation will be on Friday from 6pm to 8pm. Memorials may be given to the West Fork Cemetery in care of the funeral home.
Arthur E. Meisberger, 65, of Olean passed away at 10:40pm, Sunday, June 30, 2019 at the home of his son in New Marion. He was born at the Margaret Mary Community Hospital in Batesville on May 26, 1954 the son of Rom and Gertrude Eckstein Meisberger. Survivors include three sons Tony and Drew both of New Marion, and Brandon Meisberger of Milan; three grandchildren Anthony Meisberger, Jr., Jacob Meisberger, and Alex Lee Svatba; two sisters Dolores Souder and Mary (Greg) Hilton both of New Marion; seven brothers Melvin (Sandra), David (Sherron), John (Diane), Charlie, and Dwight Meisberger all of New Marion, Donald (Josie) Meisberger of Camby, and Mark Meisberger of Indianapolis; sister-in-law Rita Meisberger of New Marion. He was preceded in death by his parents, and his brother Phillip. Mr. Meisberger was a 1973 graduate of South Ripley High School. Art was a full time farmer and a member of the St. Magdalene Catholic Church. Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, July 5th at 11am at St. Patricks Catholic Church in Madison with Father Chris Craig officiating. Burial will be in the St. Magdalene Cemetery in Madison. Visitation will be from 9am to 10:30am Friday at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles. Memorials may be given to the St. Magdalene Cemetery Fund in care of the funeral home.
Dakota Fraley-Bush, 25, of Patriot passed away Wednesday in Madison County. He was born at the Dearborn County Hospital in Lawrenceburg on November 16, 1993 the son of Jeremy Bush and Vanessa Fraley. Survivors include his father Jeremy Bush (Pauline Tyler) of Holton, his mother Vanessa (Shaun) Roll of Patriot; two sisters Janelle (Joshua Hill) Seabolt, and Heather (James) Sykes both of Madison; one brother Derick Fraley of Waukee, Iowa; maternal grandparents Virginia Blair of Holton and Vicki Fraley of Aurora; his aunt Mari Jo (Steve) Butler of Columbus; nieces Lea Kay Moore, Bristol Lou Hill, Hailee Jackson, Jamari Johnson-Sykes, and nephew Jeffrey Jackson, Jr.. He was preceded in death by his grandparents Bill and Laura Mae Bush, Michael Fraley, and his uncle Randy Bush. Mr. Fraley was a 2011 graduate of South Ripley High School. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, July 2nd at 1pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Pastor Scott Kollman officiating. Burial will be in the Hopewell Cemetery. Visitation will be on Tuesday from 11am until time of services. Memorials may be given to Habilitat in Hawaii or the Hopewell Cemetery in care of the funeral home.
Arlin Dale Hooker, 84, of Milan, passed away Thursday, June 27, 2019 at Ripley Crossing in Milan, Indiana. Arlin was born May 5, 1935 in Saluda, IN the son Clete and Sophania (Nighbert) Hooker. He was a member of the Saluda graduating of 1953, then he attended Hanover College. There, Arlin received a Bachelor’s degree in education and earned his Master’s in education from Indiana University. He married Betty Jean McClure on June 22, 1956, and she survives. He was a member of the Southern Baptist Church of Versailles. Arlin started his teaching and coaching career at Austin High School. From there, he spent three years at Paris Crossing. He coached three years at Dillsboro High School, winning the school’s only basketball sectional title in 1961. In 1964, he became principal there and remained until 1978. He was then principal at Aurora Middle School and Aurora Elementary School, until he retired in 1996. Arlin enjoyed farming, camping, boating and fishing. He enjoyed doing these with his family and friends. When he wasn’t working on the farm, his enjoyed several summers at Houghton Lake, MI, Monroe Reservoir, Bloomington, IN. He especially enjoyed a trip to Alaska in 2006. Arlin is survived by is wife of 63 years, Betty, son Steven of Wilmington, NC and son Richard (Gretchen) of Milan, IN. Two grandsons, Adam (Katie) Hooker of Fishers, IN and Alex (Jodie) of Milan, IN. Also, he enjoyed 3 great-grandchildren, Lane, Caroline, Declan, and Laramie due in August. Arlin is also survived by his sister, Betty Ann (Robert) Yunker, Carmel, IN. He was proceeded in death by his parents, his sisters, Erma Brooks and Iona Sachleban, and his brother, Kevin. A service celebrating his life will be held Monday, July 1, at 10:00 am, at Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles, IN with Rev. Carter Corby officiating. Burial will follow at the Washington Baptist Cemetery. Family and friends may gather to share and remember him from 4:00 – 7:00 on Sunday, June 30, at the funeral home. Memorials can be given to the Milan Volunteer Fire Department and the Southern Baptist Church of Versailles.
Patsy F. Holdsworth, 74, of Versailles passed away at 9:45pm, Monday, June 17, 2019 at Aspen Place in Greensburg. She was born in Richmond, Kentucky on October 6, 1944 the daughter of Hosea and Thelma Scott Wilson. She was married to Gary Holdsworth on April 9, 1966 and her husband of 53 years survives. Other survivors include two sons Scott (Kara) Holdsworth of Greensburg, and Brian (Stacy) Holdsworth of Zionsville; four grandchildren Jocelyn, Braden, Macy, and Chancey Holdsworth; one step-grandson Brandon (Lindsey) Seabolt of Versailles; three step-great-grandchildren Addison, Kamryn, and Cooper Seabolt. She was preceded in death by her son Barry Holdsworth, her parents, and her brother Keith Wilson. Mrs. Holdsworth was a 1962 graduate of the Owsley County High School in Booneville, Kentucky. She received her Bachelors degree in music education in 1966 from Eastern Kentucky University and in 1968 received her Masters degree in music education from Eastern Kentucky. Mrs. Holdsworth began her teaching career in 1966 teaching music at the Grant County (Ky.) Elementary School. In 1967 she and Mr. Holdsworth moved to Versailles and embarked on a music teaching career at South Ripley that spanned over 30 years. Whether at home, church, or school, she and Gary were always a team. In her early years at South Ripley she taught music to all 12 grades and also taught English. Upon her retirement in 1999 she continued to share her gift of music sub teaching at Jennings County, Milan, South Decatur, and also returning to South Ripley. One of her proudest accomplishments at South Ripley was establishing the Young Confederates, a singing group which recently celebrated 50 years. Mrs. Holdsworth was named Teacher of the Year on two different occasions during her tenure at South Ripley. Mrs. Holdsworth was a 52 year member of the Tyson United Methodist Church in Versailles where she served as pianist and also in several other capacities, including serving as state president of the United Methodist Women. She was also a member of the Ripley County Retired Teachers Association, Tri-Kappa, and Delta Kappa Gamma, a national teacher’s sorority who named her their Statewide Woman of the Year in 2018. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, June 22nd at 10am at South Ripley High School in Versailles with Lay Speaker Paula Hall officiating. Burial will be in the Cliff Hill Cemetery in Versailles. Visitation will be on Friday from 3pm to 8pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles and from 9am until time of services Saturday at the school. Memorials may be given to the Holdsworth Music Scholarship or the Indiana Chapter of the ALS Foundation in care of the funeral home.
Sharon Rees, 67, of Holton passed away Wednesday, June 12, 2019 at the University of Kentucky Hospital in Lexington. She was born in Hamilton, Ohio on March 16, 1952 the daughter of Cecil and Thelma Byrd Kelly. She was married to Steve Rees on March 27, 1970 and he survives. Other survivors include one son Brian Rees of Holton; one daughter Tammy (Jeff) Wilson of Butlerville; 5 grandchildren Caitlynn Rees and Joey Rees of Holton, Ceara (Layton) Brandenburg of Franklin, and Sydney Burnett and Lanie Wilson of Butlerville; two brothers Ernie (Ellen) Kelly of Beaumont, California, and Arthur Kelly of Napoleon; one sister Carol Taylor of Holton. She was preceded in death by her parents. Mrs. Rees attended the Holton school and was a 1970 graduate of South Ripley High School. She was former employee of the Jennings County Hospital and the Holton Food Mart, a business that she and Steve later owned and operated. Sharon was a caregiver for her family and especially enjoyed caring for her grandchildren. Her spare time also found her enjoying herself at some of the area casinos. Funeral services for Sharon will be held on Monday, June 17th at 10:30am at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Rev. Dwight Roark officiating. Burial will be in the Holton Cemetery. Visitation will be on Sunday from 5pm to 7pm. Memorials may be given to the Versailles American Legion or the Holton Fire Department in care of the funeral home.
Karen L. Rohlfing, 61, of Napoleon passed away at 5:30pm, Tuesday, June 4, 2019 at St. Francis Hospital in Indianapolis. She was born in Chicago, Illinois on June 1, 1958 the daughter of Maurice and Patricia Stephens Meyers. She was married to Nick Rohlfing on September 23, 1978 and he survives. Other survivors include one son Kent (Kim) Rohlfing of Ft. Myers, Florida; one daughter Abby (Luke) Arnold of Greenwood; one granddaughter Charlotte Arnold; her parents Maurice and Patricia Meyers of Osgood; father-in-law Howard Rohlfing of Napoleon; one brother William (Annie) Meyers of Fishers; two sisters Diane McKinney of Greensburg, and Joan (Paul) Grady of Midland, Michigan, and 13 nieces and nephews; her brother-in-law Tracy (Beth) Rohlfing of Batesville; sister-in-law Barbara Tackett of Bedford. She was preceded in death by her mother-in-law Sidney Rohlfing. Mrs. Rohlfing was a 1976 graduate of Jac-Cen-Del High School. She was a 43 year employee of the Napoleon State Bank and was currently serving as clerk-treasurer for the Town of Napoleon, a position she had held for over 30 years. Karen had also served as a consultant for Mary Kay Cosmetics for over 20 years. She was an avid IU fan, but the light of her life was being grandma to “Charlee” and also spending time with her large family. Growing up Karen attended the Mud Pike Baptist Church and was currently a member of the St. John Lutheran Church in Napoleon. Funeral services will be held at 10:30am Saturday, June 8th at the St. John Lutheran Church in Napoleon with Pastor Jack Dixon officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Visitation will be from 3pm to 8pm on Friday at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles and from 9:30am until time of services Saturday at the church. Memorials may be given to the donor’s choice in care of the funeral home.
Charles “Rainbow” Reubel, 70, of Indianapolis, formerly of Versailles passed away Thursday, May 30, 2019 at his home. He was born in Indianapolis on March 3, 1949 the son of Charles J. and Cleo Reubel. He was preceded in death by his parents and there are no immediate survivors. Mr. Reubel was a 1967 graduate of South Ripley High School. He was an Army veteran of the Vietnam War where he served in Germany from 1970 to 1975. For service to his country Charles received the National Defense Medal. In his working career Charles was a truck driver, retiring from Trailer Transit in Indianapolis in 2007. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, June 4th beginning at 10am at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles. Graveside services will follow at 12pm at the Indiana Veterans Cemetery in Madison. Memorials may be given to the donor’s choice in care of the funeral home.
William E. Hankins, 76, of Cross Plains passed away at 5:10am, Wednesday, May 29, 2019 at the Margaret Mary Community Hospital in Batesville. He was born on Hicks Ridge near Canaan in Jefferson County on September 30, 1942 the son of William H. and Lillian Shook Hankins. He was married to Carolyn Smith on March 23, 1967 and she survives. Other survivors include two sons Michael (Joanna) Hankins of Westfield, and Mark Hankins of Canaan; two grandchildren Cody (Emily) Hankins of Noblesville, and Bailey Hankins of Madison, along with several nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Marvin, and his great-grandchildren Rory Nicole Hankins and Riley Alan Hankins. Mr. Hankins was a 1961 graduate of Cross Plains High School where he participated in the FFA and played basketball for the Wildcats. From June of 1964 until March of 1970 Bill served his country in the 375th Chemical Company of the US Army Air Reserves. His working career spanned several decades including jobs at the Madison State Hospital, Conn Organ in Madison, the Campbell Housfield Foundry in Harrison, Ohio, and Grote Industries in Madison where he retired in 2005 after a 14 year career. Bill also enjoyed working on his farm where he raised hay and tobacco. Bill was known in the community as an honorable man and a good neighbor. He was a member and Elder in the Jefferson Presbyterian Church near Canaan and was also an active member and former Master of the Versailles Masonic Lodge. Funeral services will be held at 11am on Saturday, June 1st at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Korrinn Wood officiating. Burial will be in the Salem Cemetery near Cross Plains with military graveside rites by the Versailles American Legion. Visitation will be on Friday from 5pm to 8pm with the Versailles Masonic Lodge conducting services at 7:45pm. Memorials may be given to the Salem Cemetery, Versailles Masonic Lodge, or Jefferson Presbyterian Church in care of the funeral home.
Viola D. Dresselhaus, 90, of Friendship passed away Saturday, May 11, 2019 at the Autumn Woods Health Campus in New Albany. She was born near Farmers Retreat on April 12, 1929 the daughter of Martin and Hulda Ewell Kuhlman. She was married to Norman Dresselhaus on May 26, 1951 and he preceded her in death on June 6, 2014. Survivors include two sons Rick (Christine) Dresselhaus of Lanesville and Robert (Cindy) Dresselhaus of Yuma, Arizona; 6 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren. She was also preceded in death by her parents, her brothers Harold, Edgar, and Norman Kuhlman, and her sisters Melba Schulenberg, Pauline Linkmeyer, and Alvera Hockemeyer. Mrs. Dresselhaus was a 1947 graduate of Dillsboro High School. For several years she worked as a secretary for AAA in Cincinnati and also did bookkeeping for Stegemoller Electric and Plumbing in Friendship. Viola enjoyed crafting, gardening, and attending to her flowers and also did volunteer work for the NMLRA in Friendship. Viola was a member of the St. John Lutheran Church at Farmers Retreat where she participated in several facets of the church. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, May 15th at 1pm at the church with Pastor Gary Wickert officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Visitation will be on Tuesday from 5pm to 7pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles and from 12pm until time of services Wednesday at the church. Memorials maybe given to the Friendship Fire Department or the St. John Lutheran Church in care of the funeral home.
Mary Louise Comer, 77, of Osgood passed away at 3:25am, Thursday, May 9, 2019 at Arbor Grove Village in Greensburg. She was born at Lyle, in Hickman County, Tennessee on January 11, 1942 the daughter of William and Lettie Blackburn Russell. She was married to Leroy Comer on May 17, 1958 and her husband of 60 years survives. Other survivors include one son John (Brenda) Comer of Underwood; one daughter Janice (Lawrence) Scheidler of Greensburg; her daughter-in-law Brenda Comer of Adams; 6 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great-grandchild; one brother William (Ellen) Russell of Columbia, Missouri; one sister Joyce Kunz of Osgood. She was preceded in death by her parents, her son James Lee Comer, and her grandson Chad Comer. Mrs. Comer retired as a cook at the Yellow Dog Restaurant in Versailles and she had worked as a cook at the Friendship Tavern. She had also been employed at IT & T in North Vernon and at US Shoe in Osgood. Louise was a member of the Jolly Circle Home Economics Club and the Milan VFW Auxiliary. Louise loved babysitting, playing cards, bingo, tending her garden & flowers, and cooking. Louise’s wishes were to be cremated and a memorial gathering is being planned for family and close friends on Saturday, May 18th at 12:00 pm at the home of Leroy and Louise. The Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles is in charge of arrangements.
Mary Jane McNeelan, 95, of Holton passed away at 5:45pm, Wednesday, May 8, 2019 at the Legacy of Morrison Woods in Muncie. She was born at North Vernon on July 25, 1923 the daughter of Leo and Mary McClellan Clerkin. She was married to William G. McNeelan, Jr. on November 2, 1946 and he preceded her in death on April 23, 2018. Survivors include one daughter Marsha (Kevin) Kile of Muncie; one grandson Greg Kile also of Muncie; two great-grandsons Javin and William Kile; one brother Michael (Janet) Clerkin of North Vernon. She was also preceded in death by her parents, her brothers Robert, Max, Richard, James, and Jack Clerkin, and her sisters Margaret Thompson, Shirley Eliot, and Martha Lemen. Mrs. McNeelan was a 1941 graduate of North Vernon High School. From January of 1965 until August of 1988 she was employed at the Holton Branch of the Napoleon State Bank. She was also a homemaker and had assisted her husband in the McNeelan Cash Store, McNeelan’s Hardware, and the McNeelan and Smith Funeral Home, all in Holton. Janie was a member of St. Marys Catholic Church in North Vernon and attended the Holton United Methodist Church. Funeral services will be held on Monday, May 13th at 11am at the Holton United Methodist Church with Pastor Jeremy Neckers of the Commonway Church in Muncie officiating. Burial will be in the Holton Cemetery. Visitation will be held on Sunday from 5pm to 7pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles and from 10am until time of services Monday at the church. Memorials may be given to the Holton United Methodist Church or the Holton Cemetery in care of the funeral home.
Susan J. Collins, 81, of Versailles passed away at 3:30am, Friday, April 26, 2019 at the Norton Hospital in Louisville. She was born near Oolitic in Lawrence County on January 30, 1938 the daughter of Martin and Frances Bugh Decker. She was married to Jimmy Collins on November 2, 1974 and he survives. Other survivors include three sons Don Martin (Patricia) Lee, and John (Colyn) York both of Edinburgh, and William Timothy Collins of Osgood; one daughter Frances York of Versailles; 6 grandchildren; one sister Jan Bias of Reddington. She was preceded in death by her daughter April Miller, her son Jay Daniel York, and her grandchildren Larry Thomas and Melissa Graham. Mrs. Collins was a homemaker. Her wishes were to be cremated and services will be held at the convenience of the family. Memorials may be given to the donor’s choice in care of the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles.
Carla Sue (Krieg) Shelton, 53, of Osgood passed away at 1:24pm, Tuesday, April 16, 2019 at Christ Hospital in Cincinnati. She was born at the Bartholomew County Hospital in Columbus on April 3, 1966 the daughter of Kenny and Betty Luers Krieg. She was married to Andy Shelton on February 11, 2018 and he survives. Other survivors include her parents Kenny (Kathy) Krieg of Vevay, and Betty (David) Forkert of Dade City, Florida ; two sons Jesse Grow of Milhousen, and Luke (Brianna) Grow of Napoleon; one daughter Maggie Grow and her companion Brandon Jeffries of Sunman; two brothers Nate (Bridget) Krieg of Napoleon, and Dwight (Laurie) Krieg of Batesville; two step-sisters Amber (Eric) Peetz of Batesville and April (Jeremy) Hughes of Osgood; many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews, aunts, uncles, and several cousins. Carla was proud to know that she was becoming a grandma in October. She was preceded in death by her grandparents Carl Luers, Ruth Tatem, and William and Matilda Krieg. Carla was a 1984 graduate of Jac-Cen-Del High School. She was a compassionate person who had a continuous smile that could light up a room. She was an active member within the medical field, receiving her First Responder certification in 2005 and her EMT certification in 2008. She loved to help her community and volunteered at Task Unit One until it closed and then became a member of the Napoleon Fire Department. Carla was an employee of Margaret Mary Health in Batesville. She had previously worked for 26 years at the office of Dr. David Welsh in Batesville while working part time with the Ripley County EMS. Carla was a member of the Hopewell Baptist Church. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, April 23rd at 10am at the Hopewell Baptist Church with Pastor David Forkert officiating. Burial will be in St. Peters Cemetery at Fink’s Corner near Napoleon. Visitation will be held on Monday, April 22nd from 5pm to 8pm and will also be held at Hopewell. There will also be visitation Tuesday from 9am until time of services. Memorials may be given to the donor’s choice in care of the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles.
Betty Lou Bustle, 78, of Dabney passed away at 1pm, Monday, April 8, 2019 at her home. She was born near New Marion on June 28, 1941 the daughter of Clyde and Goldah Wilson Curran. She was married to Dean Bustle on April 1, 1958 and her husband of 61 years survives. Other survivors include four sons Gary (Margaret) Bustle of Fargo, North Dakota, Mike (Michelle) Bustle of Commiskey, and Mark Bustle and Brian Bustle both of Dabney; one daughter Terri Smith of Independence, Kentucky; 11 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, her son Ricky, her brother Charles Curran, and her sister Ruth McHenry. Mrs. Bustle was a homemaker and a former employee of Hopkin’s Store in Holton. She enjoyed her large family and also spent time doing puzzles, sewing, quilting, crocheting, and playing bingo. Betty was a member of the Holton Christian Church. Funeral services will be held on Friday, April 12th at 12pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Bro. Bob McCreary of the Holton Christian Church officiating. Burial will be in the New Marion Cemetery. Visitation will also be on Friday beginning at 10am. Memorials may be given to the New Marion Cemetery in care of the funeral home.
Dale M. Hyatt, 76, of Osgood passed away at 7:52pm, Sunday, April 7, 2019 at the Manderley Health Care Center in Osgood. He was born at Batesville on September 14, 1942 the son of Edmond and Hilda Lewis Hyatt. He was married to Ruth Adams on April 26, 1970 and she survives. Other survivors include one son Benji Hyatt of Dover. Mr. Hyatt was a 1961 graduate of Jac-Cen-Del High School. He was a former employee of Gulf Plastics in Greensburg and had also been a truck driver for Crum Farms. Dale had also operated a TV repair shop in Osgood and had served as Ripley County Building Inspector for several years. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, April 13th at 12pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles. Burial will be in the Tanglewood Cemetery. Visitation will also be on Saturday beginning at 10am. Memorials may be given to the Tanglewood Cemetery in care of the funeral home.
Lloyd M. Franklin, 86, of the Hopewell Community near Holton passed away at 2:40am, Sunday, April 7, 2019 at the Kings Daughters Hospital in Madison. He was born in the Forest Corner Community northwest of Holton on January 11, 1933 the son of Walter and Rhoda Morris Franklin. He was married to Luella Cumberworth on July 23, 1955 and his wife of 63 years survives. Other survivors include one son Steven (Kathy) Franklin, and one daughter Diann (Tony) Jackson both of the Hopewell Community; four grandchildren Trevor (Livi) Downey of Versailles, Marsha (Ed) Byard of Butlerville, and Jessica (Josh) Schmidt, and Kayla Franklin both of Holton; 5 great-grandchildren Dalton and Kimberlynn Byard, Lane Downey, and Steven and Abbie Schmidt; two brothers Lowell (Kay) Franklin and Duane (Carol) Franklin both of Holton; one sister Edyth Hollandsworth of North Vernon. He was preceded in death by his parents, and his sister Odetta Burton. Mr. Franklin was a 1951 graduate of Holton High School where he played on the Warhorse basketball team. He was an Air Force veteran of the Korean War, serving from 1953 to 1957. He was a 37 year employee of Cummins Engine in Columbus where he worked on the assembly line, retiring in 2000. Lloyd was a member of the Hopewell Baptist Church where he served as a deacon, Sunday school teacher, church moderator, and song leader. Funeral services will be held at 11am on Thursday, April 11th at the Hopewell Baptist Church with Rev. Ty Choate officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Visitation will be on Wednesday from 5pm to 8pm and will also be held at the church. Memorials may be given to the Hopewell Building Fund in care of the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles.
William B. Watts, 82, of Allen’s Crossing near Osgood passed away Friday, April 5, 2019 at his home. He was born at Hallie in Letcher County, Kentucky on February 9, 1937 the son of Pearl and Cinda Smith Watts. Survivors include three daughters Phyllis Watts and Lisa Johnson both of Norwood, Ohio, and Billie Watts of Madison; one step-daughter Kathy (AJ) Riley of Napoleon; 8 grandchildren; six sisters Sue (Darrell) Gross of Florence, Kentucky, Sharon (Bill) Back of Canaan, Juanita (Bob) Adams of Shelbyville, Christina Wooten of Kentucky, Velma Hamilton of Moorhead, Kentucky, and Glenna (Tom) Sunn of LaPorte. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Betty DeBurger Watts, his son Randy, daughter Brenda, brothers Fred, Pearl Jr., Jay, Dee Lawrence, Billie, and Bub; he was also preceded in death by his sisters Virgie Whitaker, Effie Campbell, and Emma Jean Leach. Mr. Watts was a 40 year employee of Reliance Electric in Madison where he worked as a tow motor operator, retiring in 1997. Bill enjoyed hunting and fishing, and tending to his dogs, guineas, and chickens. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, April 9th at 12pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Randy Thieman, minister of the Versailles Church of Christ officiating. Burial will be in the Shelby Cemetery. Visitation will also be on Tuesday beginning at 10am. Memorials may be given to the Jefferson County Humane Society or the Shelby Cemetery in care of the funeral home.
A. Everett Wood, 98, of Cross Plains passed away at 6:40pm, Wednesday, April 3, 2019 at his home. He was born at Hazel Green in Wolfe County, Kentucky on February 16, 1921 the son of Alfred and Martha Napier Wood. He was married to Myrle Hankins on September 6, 1943 and she preceded him in death on August 27, 2011. Survivors include two sons Ralph (Faith Ann) Wood and Robert (Dotty) Wood both of Versailles; one daughter Carol Berry also of Versailles; one sister Irene Scudder of Lawrenceburg; nine grandchildren, sixteen great-grandchildren, three great-great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews. He was also preceded in death by his parents, his granddaughter Linda Jane Berry, son-in-law William Berry, his brothers James and Henry Wood, and his sisters Daisy Tyra, Adah Jane Tyra, Elizabeth Wood, Nanie Mae Whisman, Virginia Nickell, and Leona Whisman. Mr. Wood was an Army Veteran of WWII serving with Company A of the 108th Infantry Division. He established A.E. Wood Excavating in 1954 and for several years operated heavy equipment. In 1970 he purchased the Versailles Implement Company and began Wood Farm and Industrial Supply in Versailles, retiring in 2006. He was also a farmer and worked with his family on the farm well past his 96th birthday. Everett received his pilot’s license in 1964 and maintained landing strips at home as well as at his machinery dealership in Versailles. He was a strong advocate of education and served many years as Brown Township trustee as well as on the Brown Township School Board. He assisted in the building of the Cross Plains Elementary School and the South Ripley High School. The greatest priority in his life was sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ. The many hours he spent reading the Bible were reflected in the way he lived. He was a member of the Bear Creek Baptist Church in Friendship since 1950 where for many years he served as a deacon, trustee, and Sunday School teacher. He was also a member of the Versailles Masonic Lodge and the Brown Township American Legion. Funeral services for Mr. Wood will be held on Monday, April 8th at 11am at the Bear Creek Baptist Church in Friendship with Rev. Sherman Hughes officiating. Burial will be in the Cross Plains Methodist Cemetery with military graveside rites by the Brown Township American Legion. Visitation will be on Sunday from 4pm to 7pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles and from 10am until time of services Monday at the church. The Versailles Masonic Lodge will conduct services Sunday evening at 6:45pm at the funeral home. Memorials may be given to CEF (Good News Clubs) in care of the funeral home.
Robert Bine Firth, 91, of Versailles passed away a 7:50pm, Sunday, March 31, 2019 at Highpoint Health in Lawrenceburg. He was born at Versailles on December 18, 1927 the son of Robert and Lena Kemker Firth. He was married to Ruby Fletcher on May 20, 1950 and she preceded him in death on November 27, 2011. Survivors include two daughters Terri (Al) Turchan of Bridgeville, Delaware, and Mindy (Steve) Lauber of Dillsboro; four grandsons Nate Kingery of Morgantown, West Virginia, Nick (Tamara)Kingery of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Alec and Drew Lauber both of Dillsboro; one step-granddaughter Rochelle Turchan; three great-grandchildren Emania, Zachary, and Kirsi Kingery; one sister Tlena Sheets of Kokomo. He was also preceded in death by his parents, and his sisters Myrtle Smith and Mary Ann Strubbe. Mr. Firth was a 1946 graduate of Versailles High School. After high school he served in the US Army for one year as a Medical Aideman. He also served during the Korean War from 1951 to 1953 where he advanced to the rank of Corporal, serving with the 70th Tank Battalion and also with the First Calvary Division. Bine worked for 30 years at the Jefferson Proving Ground in the motor pool and also as an ammunition tester. Those who knew Bine knew his passion for the outdoors, collecting guns and knives, gardening, and his grandchildren. He was known to many in Versailles as simply the “Tomato Man” which was just fine with him. Bine was a member of the Versailles American Legion. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, April 6th at 11am at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Rev. Ty Choate of the Hopewell Baptist Church officiating. Burial will be in the Cliff Hill Cemetery in Versailles with military graveside rites by the Versailles American Legion. Visitation will begin at 10am. Memorials may be given to the Cliff Hill Cemetery in care of the funeral home.
Mrs. Georgia Roark Sparks passed away at 8:24pm, Saturday, March 30, 2019 at her home in Osgood. Most of her family was present to say good-bye and send her on her journey to meet our savior Jesus Christ. She was born at the Margaret Mary Community Hospital in Batesville on September 30, 1955 the daughter of Lue and Arnie Caudill Roark. She was married to Michael Sparks on October 31, 1998 and he survives. Other survivors include two daughters Marcia (Perry Collett) Stearns and Cindy (Greg) McIntosh both of North Vernon; two granddaughters Haylee Ballard and Zoey McIntosh; five brothers Harley Roark and James Roark both of Holton, Joe Roark of Osgood, John Roark of Madison, and Mark Roark of Linefork, Kentucky; five sisters Bonnie Kieffer of Holton, Thelma Osborn of Vevay, Tina Wingate of Bennington, Bonita Halcomb of Linefork, Kentucky, and Martha Hammons of Canaan. She was preceded in death by her parents, and her sisters Anna Mae Ahu, Ola Simon, Dana Craig, and Eula Sizemore. As a child and young woman Georgia attended the Little Memory Old Regular Baptist Church. She loved to fish, play games on the computer, and watch the birds from her back deck. Mostly, Georgia loved her children and grandchildren. She spent endless hours entertaining and educating her granddaughters. She leaves an emptiness in our lives that cannot be filled. Funeral services will be held on Thursday, April 4th at 1pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Rev. Jim Wingate officiating. Burial will be in the Little Memory Cemetery near Sunman. Visitation will be on Wednesday from 4pm to 7pm. Memorials may be given to the Little Memory Cemetery or St. Jude Hospital in care of the funeral home.
Tamara Sheppard (Mam maw, Tammy Carrots) 60, of Versailles passed away at 9:30 am, Saturday, March 30, 2019. She left behind two daughters Tiffany Barkdoll of Port Orange, FL, and Tara Thompson of Anderson SC, and two non-blood daughters Hayley Wainscott and Hannah Knukles, 6 grandchildren, 4 great-grandchildren, one sister Lana Walker of Versailles In and her mother Wilma Lewis of Muncie In and Caity Corn. Tamara was a kind and loving mother and friend, she would do anything for anyone at any time. Tamara worked for Acosta Sales where she made lots of friends that became family. She loved making lots of crafts, guitar hero Queen, walks along the lake and making memories around a bon fire. You will forever be missed, we will see your smiling face as we yell to the sky, we love you Mam maw. Tamara’s wishes were to be cremated. Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home is handling the arrangements for the family.
Darrell W. Smith, 71, of Cross Plains passed away Wednesday, March 27, 2019 at his home. He was born on Splinters Ridge in Jefferson County on August 12, 1947 the son of James and Shirley Osborn Smith. He was married to Heidi Morganstein on August 24, 2000 and she preceded him in death on March 14, 2015. Survivors include one son Kevin Smith of Berlin, Germany; two daughters Carolyn Lukes of Belgium, and Belinda Smith of Berlin, Germany; 3 grandchildren; one brother Bo (Cheryl) Smith of Friendship; five sisters Anita Cook, Cheryl (Mike) Beverly, and Mary McCleary all of Cross Plains, Karen (Everett) Scholl of Rexville, and Anna Johnson of Madison. He was preceded in death by his parents, and his brother Donald Smith. Mr. Smith was a 1966 graduate of Cross Plains High School. He was an Army veteran of the Vietnam War where he served as an SP 5 with the 31st Infantry Division from 1967 to 1973. For service to his country Darrell received the National Defense Service Medal, the Army Occupation of Germany Medal, the Good Conduct Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, and the Vietnam Campaign Medal. In civilian life worked as a meter reader for the Southeastern Indiana REMC. Graveside services will be held at 2pm Tuesday, April 2nd at the Akers Cemetery in Friendship with Rev. Sherman Hughes officiating. Military graveside rites will be conducted by the Versailles American Legion. Memorials may be given to the cemetery in care of the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles.
Arlene Utter, 78, of Versailles passed away a 3:20am, Wednesday, March 13, 2019 at the Waters of Dillsboro. She was born at Petersburg in Boone County, Kentucky on August 18, 1940 the daughter of Wallace and Ethel Jarman Elza. Survivors include two daughters Sheila (Rob) Young of Aurora, and Chris (Ron) Hutton of Versailles; 4 grandchildren, 2 step-grandchildren, 7 great-grandchildren, and 2 step-great-grandchildren; one step-sister Kathy (Tom) McKay of Rising Sun. She was preceded in death by her parents, her brothers Pete, Hubert, Jim, and Earl Elza, and her sisters Betty Jean Jackson, Etheleen Elza, Evelyn Mister, and Mary Dee Walston. Arlene was a former dietary employee of the Dillsboro Manor. In her spare time she enjoyed doing puzzles and going to bingo. Funeral services for Arlene will be held on Saturday, March 16 at 1pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Rev. Charles Miller officiating. Burial will be in the Cliff Hill Cemetery in Versailles. Visitation will also be on Saturday beginning at 11am. Memorials may be given to the Ripley County Humane Society in care of the funeral home.
Nancy L. Brown, 84, of Batesville passed away at 12:07pm, Saturday, March 9, 2019 at the Columbus Regional Hospital. She was born at Cross Plains on December 29, 1934 the daughter of Bryan “Boone” and Mary Katherine Laswell Mathews. Survivors include one daughter Monica (Glen) Leach of Batesville; grandson Stetson (Jena) Leach of Franklin; great-granddaughter Adriana Leach; one brother Paul (Clarica) Mathews of Cross Plains, and one sister Janice Cook also of Cross Plains; Nancy was aunt to several nieces and nephews along with several great-nieces and great-nephews. She was preceded in death by her great-granddaughter Juliana, and her brothers Clarence and Robert Mathews. Nancy was a 1952 graduate of Cross Plains High School. She was a 44 year employee of RCA in Indianapolis where she worked as a supervisor over the record department and the production of record albums. After retirement, and her return to Ripley County, she worked at Madison Electronics in Versailles. Nancy was an avid fan of the Cincinnati Reds and she enjoyed following NCAA basketball and filling out the brackets for March Madness. She also enjoyed playing cards and traveling, having visited all 48 of the Continental United States. Nancy was a member of the Cross Plains United Methodist Church. Funeral services will be held at the convenience of the family with burial in the Cross Plains Methodist Cemetery. Memorials may be given to the cemetery in care of the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles.
Betty Lou May, 80, of Versailles passed away Tuesday, February 26, 2019 at the UC Medical Center in Cincinnati. She was born near Delaware on November 5, 1938 the daughter of Theodore and Dorothy Gilland Hosmer. She was married to Richard May on April 19, 1995 and he survives. Other survivors include her mother-in-law Catherine May of Versailles; two sons Clayton Dean Rork of Cincinnati, and William (Sandy) Rork of Dayton, Ohio; five grandchildren and five great-grandchildren; five brothers Bill (Lucille) Hosmer of Delaware, Don Hosmer of Falmouth, Kentucky, Harley (Sue) Rork of Owensboro, Kentucky, James (Brenda) Hosmer of Osgood, and Kenny (Julie Ann) Hosmer of Milan; three sisters Mary Thompson and Barbara Peck both of Osgood, and Jeanie Doan of Oklahoma. She was preceded in death by her parents, her daughter-in-law Ann Rork, sister Shirley Jones, and brother-in-law Ronald May. Mrs. May was a 38 year employee of US Shoe in Osgood. She was also a former employee of Delta Faucet in Greensburg and retired from Madison Electronics in Versailles. Betty was a big fan of Elvis and she also enjoyed feeding her birds and squirrels, and tending to her flowers. Betty was a member of the Versailles Church of Christ. Funeral services will be held at 4pm on Saturday, March 2nd at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Randy Thieman, minister of the Versailles Church of Christ officiating. Visitation will begin at 2pm. Memorials may be given to the Mud Pike Cemetery in care of the funeral home.
Jerome “Moe” Huntington, 80, of Friendship passed away at 10:15am, Sunday, February 24th 2019 at the Dearborn County Hospital in Lawrenceburg. He was born at Friendship on August 11, 1938 the son of Wilkie and Lulu Uhlman Huntington. Survivors include one brother Gene Huntington of Friendship; two nephews Tim (Jennifer) Huntington of Friendship and Mark (Mary) Huntington of Batesville; two nieces Jennie (Chris) Grider of North Vernon, and Gena (Roger) Gullion of Dewberry. He was preceded in death by his parents, and his brother Larry “Whitey” Huntington. Moe enlisted in the US Army on October 3, 1961 and served with the 14th Battalion of the 2nd Armored Division. He was discharged with the rank of SP4 on October 2, 1963. After his service in the military Mr. Huntington worked for 59 years for his brother at Whitey’s Auto Repair in Friendship, retiring in 2016. Moe also farmed and one of his greatest enjoyments was making up to 300lbs of candy each Christmas and delivering it to his friends. Funeral services for Moe will be held on Thursday, February 28th at 11am at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home with Rev. Sherman Hughes of the Bear Creek Baptist Church officiating. Burial will be in St. Peters Cemetery in Olean. Visitation will also be on Thursday from 10am until time of services. Memorials may be given to the NMLRA or the Friendship Fire Department in care of the funeral home.
Carol Sue Owens, 60, of Hanover passed away Monday, February 18, 2019 at Norton’s Hospital in Louisville. She was born at Batesville on March 4, 1958 the daughter of George and Phyllis Tripp Furlow. She was married to Steven Owens on June 27, 1991 and he survives. Other survivors include two sons Christopher (Paula McConnell) George of Holton, and Chad George of Hanover; three grandchildren; two brothers Dennis Furlow and Tom Furlow both of Holton. She was preceded in death by her parents, her son Justin Dale George, and her brothers Gary Furlow and Larry Furlow. Mrs. Owens attended school at Holton and South Ripley. She was former resident of Mitchell and worked in the deli at the Jay C Store there. Her and her husband Steve also operated produce stands in different areas. Carol’s wishes were to be cremated. A celebration of her life will be held on Saturday, March 2nd at 11am at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles. Burial will follow in the New Marion Cemetery. Visitation will begin at 10am. Memorials may be given to the New Marion Cemetery in care of the funeral home.
Shelby E. Pindell, 61, of Sunman passed away at 2:30am, Tuesday, February 19, 2019 at the Margaret Mary Community Hospital in Batesville. He was born at Connersville on May 21, 1957 the son of Loren and Bertie Norris Pindell. Survivors include one son Shelby (Faith) Pindell of Milan; three daughters Kelly and her husband Sean, Dainyon, and Krista ; three brothers Sam Pindell and Larry Pindell both of Sunman, and Kenny Pindell of Crawfordsville; six sisters; Letha Flannery of Greensburg, Coylean Denton of Milan, Glenda Wick of Texas, Ann Phillips of Crawfordsville, Bonnie Marshall of Greensburg and Elaine Shockey of Alabama . He was preceded in death by his parents. Mr. Pindell worked over 25 years at the US Shoe Factory and was a member of Mud Pike Baptist Church. Shelby’s wishes were to be cremated and a celebration of his life will be held on Wednesday, February 27 at 11am at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Rev. Debi Black of the Mud Pike Baptist Church officiating. Visitation will begin at 10am. . Lunch will follow at the Upper Room in Osgood, The family will have a donation box at the Upper Room.
Linda Kay Downey, 72, of Versailles passed away on Thursday, February 21, 2019 at her home. She was born at the Whitlatch Clinic in Milan on May 5, 1946 the daughter of Floyd and Virginia Shinkle Downey. Survivors include one daughter Donnelle (Matthew) Griffin of Indianapolis; one grandson David Griffin of St. Paul; four brothers Larry Downey, Ronnie (Nancy) Downey, and Terry Downey all of Holton, and Allen (Christine) Downey of Versailles; two sisters Joyce (Bob) Peters of Brownstown, and Phyllis Swinney of Holton. She was preceded in death by her parents. Ms. Downey was a 1966 graduate of Holton High School. She was a former employee of Lane Bryant in Indianapolis and retired from the Hampton Inn in Batesville in 2015 where she worked in housekeeping. Linda’s number one love in life was her daughter, spending time with her family and friends. She knew every song the Beatles ever sung and also loved tending to her flowers. Linda also enjoyed doing genealogy on the Downey and Shinkle families. She attended the Hopewell Baptist Church. Funeral services for Linda will be held at 2pm, Wednesday, February 27th at the Hopewell Baptist Church with Rev. Mitch Harrell of the Zenas Baptist Church officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Visitation will also be at Hopewell beginning at 12pm. Memorials may be given to the donor’s choice in care of the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles.
Norman A. Conover, 65, of the Hopewell Community passed away at 3pm, Wednesday, February 20, 2019 at the Christ Hospital in Cincinnati. He was born at Batesville on January 21, 1954 the son of Egbert and Leota Franklin Conover. Survivors include his mother Leota Conover of Hopewell; one brother Nathan (Becky) Conover of Hopewell; two sisters Susan (Larry) Black of Osgood, and Sally (Mike) Webster of Cross Plains; also several aunts, uncles, nieces, and nephews. Norman attended school at Holton and was a 1972 graduate of South Ripley High School. He was a 39 year employee of Arvins at North Vernon where worked in waste management and was also a fork lift operator. He owned, trained, and drove standard bred horses, racing at several venues in the tri-state area, and also operated the family farm. In his spare time Norman enjoyed fishing, collecting John Deere tractors, and spending time with his family. Norman was a member of the Hopewell Baptist Church and a former member of the Holton Fire Department. Funeral services will be held on Monday, February 25th at 11am at the Hopewell Baptist Church with Pastor Ty Choate officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Visitation will be on Sunday from 4pm to 7pm and will also be at Hopewell. Memorials may be given to the Hopewell Building Fund in care of the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home.
Robert “Joe” Owens, 85, of Osgood passed away at 5:50pm, Wednesday, February 20, 2019 at Ripley Crossing in Milan. He was born at Vernon on November 17, 1933 the son of Glenn and Ethel Goodpaster Owens. He was married to Susan Miller on March 7, 1953 and his wife of 65 years survives. Other survivors include one son Jeff (Pat) Owens of Elrod; three daughters Vernice Stratton and Naomi (Kevin) Tunny both of Holton, and Tina Bardell of Milan, Michigan; 9 grandchildren and 26 great-grandchildren; two sisters Lou Trueblood of Salem, and Georgia (Jerry) Adkinson of Elrod. He was preceded in death by his parents, his son Robert, his son-in-law Leslie Stratton, Jr., his grandson Leslie Scott Stratton, his brothers Russell, Jim, John, Charles, Gene, Dennis, and Raleigh Owens, and his sister Faye Mills. Mr. Owens worked for 43 years as a digger and hydro-ax operator for the Southeastern Indiana REMC in Osgood, retiring in 1997. He also served as pastor of the Mt. Zion Nazarene Church in Switzerland County for several years. Joe enjoyed coon hunting in his younger years and also raising a big garden. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, February 26th at 1pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Tom Holt officiating. Burial will be in the Miller Family Cemetery near Osgood. Visitation will be on Monday from 5pm to 8pm. Memorials may be given to the Miller Family Cemetery in care of the funeral home.
Dustin A. Toops, 26, of Osgood passed away Monday, February 18, 2019 in Aurora. He was born at Batesville on February 1, 1993. Survivors include his parents Roger and Terri Green Toops of Osgood; his children Caroline and Clayten; his brother Tanner Dilk of Osgood; sisters Missy Dilk of Batesville, Mandy (Jeff) Ronaldson of Manhattan, Illinois, Anna (David) Dougherty of New Palestine, Olivia McLaughlin of Dillsboro, and Lauryn Dilk of Osgood; nieces and nephews Aaron, Emma, Mollie, Madelyn, Parker, Grant, Ally, Ava, and Jack; also his paternal grandmother Mollie Toops of Osgood, along with several aunts, uncles, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his paternal grandfather Donald Toops, and his maternal grandparents Joseph and Ioata Green. Dustin helped his father on the farm and was an employee of Kraemer Construction in Aurora. He was a member of the Hopewell Baptist Church. Funeral services will be held on Friday, February 22nd at 11am at the Hopewell Baptist Church with Pastor Ty Choate officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Visitation will be on Thursday from 5pm to 8pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles and from 10am until time of services Friday at the church. Memorials may be given to the donor’s choice in care of the funeral home.
Herbert M. Raper, 70, of Versailles passed away on Saturday, February 16, 2019 at his home. He was born in Detroit, Michigan on June 17, 1948 the son of Norman and Mattie Midgett Raper. Survivors include one brother Ronald (Debbie) Raper of Versailles, along with several cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents and several aunts and uncles. Herbert was a 1967 graduate of South Ripley High School. He was inducted into the US Army on May 1, 1968 and served in Vietnam with the 1st Battalion of the 92nd Artillery, rising to the rank of SP4. For service to his country Herbert received the Good Conduct Medal and the Vietnam Service Medal. He was also classified as a rifle marksman. He was discharged from the Army on April 30, 1974 and returned to Versailles to help his father on the farm. Funeral services will be held at 4pm on Saturday, February 23rd at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Randy Thieman, minister of the Versailles Church of Christ officiating. Burial will be in the Cliff Hill Cemetery with military graveside rites by the Versailles American Legion. Visitation will begin at 3pm. Memorials may be given to the Cliff Hill Cemetery in care of the funeral home.
Donald L. Moeller, loving husband and father of 3, passed away at home on Tuesday, February 12, 2019. Donald was born in New Palestine, IN on February 1, 1934 the son of Raymond H. and Wilna Curry Moeller. He was married to Pauline Hernly on November 20, 1960 and together they raised one son, Mark, and two daughters, Marcilynn and Kathline. Donald was a 1952 graduate of New Palestine High School and continued on to receive his Bachelor of Science degree in agriculture from Purdue University in 1956. He served two years in the United States Army in Germany. He worked twenty three years as an FHA appraiser for the United States Department of Agriculture, and later as a real estate appraiser for local banks including the Ripley County Bank, the Vevay Deposit Bank, and the Napoleon State Bank. Donald was a licensed pilot, an avid reader, and a member of the Cornerstone Community Fellowship in Madison. Donald is survived by his wife Pauline; one son Mark Moeller of Fairfax, Virginia; two daughters Marcilynn Moeller (David) Keys of Carmel, and Kathline Moeller (Jose) Cruz of Columbus, Ohio; four grandchildren Jessica Keys of Fishers, Rebecca Keys of Carmel, Benjamin Keys of Carmel, and Ella Cruz of Columbus, Ohio; three sisters Ellen Stillman of Wanamaker, Connie (Charles) Stamm of Ft. Mill, South Carolina, and Ina Ray (Trevor) Jones of Bloomington. He was preceded in death by his parents. A celebration of Donald's life will be held on Saturday, February 23rd at 11am at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles and will be officiated by Dr. Scott Murphy of the Cornerstone Community Fellowship. Visitation will be from 10am until time of services. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Samaritan's Purse or Life Choices of Madison in care of Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home.
Dr. Marion T. Jackson, 85, of Terre Haute passed away at Brookdale of Ft. Wayne on Thursday, February 7, 2019. He was born near Versailles on August 19, 1933 the son of Marshall and Estelle Fox Jackson. He was married to Jaleh Jorjani on June 1, 1985 and she preceded him in death in June of 2016. Survivors include two daughters Arshia Myers of Dayton, Ohio,and Grousha (Jason) Birkenbeul of Ft. Wayne; four granddaughters Elise and Libby Myers, and Mia and Claire Birkenbeul; also his sister-in-law Eva Fern Jackson of Versailles. He was also preceded in death by his parents, his brothers Willard, Kenneth, and Hubert Jackson, and his sisters Naomi Ruth Carter, Margaret Jobst, and Neva Rea. Mr. Jackson was a 1951 graduate of Versailles High School and began his working career at Coca-Cola in Ft. Wayne in June of 1951. He served with the US Naval Reserve from 1953 to 1955 aboard the USS Currituck, a seaplane tender based at Norfolk, Virginia. In 1955 he was employed in Ft. Wayne as a Technical Writer in the Talos ground-to-air missile program at the Farnsworth Electronics Company. He received his B.S. degree in Conservation of Natural Resources from Purdue University in 1961 and received his PhD degree in Plant Ecology from Purdue in 1964. He was a former professor at Moorhead State University and in September of 1964 began a 37 year career at Indiana State University in Terre Haute as a professor in the Life Science department, also teaching part time at St. Mary-of-the-Woods College near Terre Haute. Mr. Jackson authored two books including The Natural Heritage of Indiana and also Indiana Trees, in an effort to protect the state’s natural heritage and biodiversity. He also spent many summers working for the US Forest Service in Idaho, the National Park Service in Oregon, and the US Fish and Wildlife Service in Alaska. Other accomplishments in Mr. Jackson’s career included being editor and president for the Indiana Academy of Science, president of the Indiana Chapter of the Nature Conservancy, president of the Wabash Valley Audubon Society, and serving on the Board of Trustees of the Natural Areas Association. He was also named Conservationist of the Year in 2017 by the Ouabache Land Conservancy. Funeral services for Mr. Jackson will be held on Friday, February 15th at 2pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Rev. Jeff Stratton officiating. Burial will be in the Tanglewood Cemetery. Visitation will also be on Friday beginning at 1pm. Memorial contributions may be given to ACRES Land Trust or the Tanglewood Cemetery in care of the funeral home. A memorial service for Mr. Jackson will also be held on Saturday, February 16th at 1pm at the Debaun Funeral Home, 85 East Springhill Drive in Terre Haute.
Mary Susan Smith, 61, of Butlerville passed away at 12:08am, Thursday, January 31, 2019 at Morning Breeze in Greensburg. She was born in Hamilton, Ohio on January 7, 1958 the daughter of Charles and Bertie Witt Bunch. She was married to Joel Smith on March 7, 1987 and he survives. Other survivors include her father Charles Bunch of Seven Mile, Ohio; one son Joel (Aimee) Smith, Jr. of Greensburg; one daughter Amanda (Adam) Franklin of Holton; two grandchildren; one brother Charles Bunch of Seven Mile, Ohio; three sisters Donna Walls of Versailles, Patty Saunders of Seymour, and Sherri Cox of North Vernon. She was preceded in death by her mother and her brother Tommy Bunch. Mrs. Smith was a 1977 graduate of Ross (Ohio) High School. She was a homemaker and a long time employee of Defender Home Security in Batesville. She was also a former employee of Ohio Rod in Versailles. Mary Susan was a member of the Dillsboro Church of Christ. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, February 5th at 11am at the Indiana Veterans Cemetery in Madison with Bro. Earl Thomas officiating. Visitation will begin at 10am. Memorials may be given to the donor’s choice in care of the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles.
Donna J. Fletcher, 75, of Rexville passed away at 8:30am, Tuesday, January 29, 2019 at her home. She was born in Cincinnati on April 6, 1943 the daughter of Ralph and Blanche Oden. She was married to William Fletcher on May 7, 1979 and he survives. Other survivors include two sons Kenneth Schorle of Cincinnati, and Anthony Schorle of Versailles; one daughter Peggy Schorle of Batesville; one step-son Richard Fletcher of Madison; one step-daughter Michelle (Kim) Johnson of Cincinnati. 5 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren. Donna was a homemaker. Donna’s wishes were to be cremated and services will be held at the convenience of the family. The Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles was in charge of arrangements.
William “Bill” Westmeier, 66, of Versailles passed away at 6:15am, Wednesday, January 30, 2019 at his home. He was born at Milan on March 21, 1952 the son of Aaron and Geneva Kieffer Westmeier. He was married to Mary Ann Strunck on April 24, 2004 and she survives. Other survivors include one son Aaron Westmeier of Versailles; step-son Vincent (Jessica) Kieffer of Versailles; step-daughter Vanessa Kieffer of Versailles; grandchildren Evan, Lilly, Alex, Abby, Devin, Anna Rae, and Jacob; two sisters Linda (Terry) Hillman of Connersville, and Patricia (Paul) Reese of Milan. He was preceded in death by his parents and his daughter Clarissa Lee Westemeier. Mr. Westmeier was a 1970 graduate of South Ripley High School. He was a 30 year employee of Cummins Engine in Columbus where he worked in various positions. After his retirement from Cummins Bill worked in maintenance for the Waters of Dillsboro, but his favorite job was being a farmer like his father was. Bill was always of a kind heart and gentle soul and some of his favorite things were watching the Three Stooges, playing euchre, and spending time with his family. Bill was a member of the St. Paul Lutheran Church at Olean. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, February 2nd at 11am at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Rev. Curtis Black officiating. Burial will be in the Cliff Hill Cemetery in Versailles. Visitation will be on Friday from 4pm to 7pm. Memorials may be given to the Special Olympics in care of the funeral home.
Louise A. Miller, 81, of Osgood passed away at 1:25pm, Thursday, January 17, 2019 at the Margaret Mary Community Hospital in Batesville. She was born at Jackson, Ohio on October 2, 1937 the daughter of Sollie and Virginia Tracey Miller. Survivors include her sister-in-law Georgia Miller Moore of Osgood, her nephews Ron (Regina) Miller of Milan and Rick (Ann) Miller of Bright; her niece Beverly (Wayne) Miller of Versailles. She was preceded in death by her parents, her brother Sollie Miller, Jr., her nephew Sollie Newton Miller, and her step-brother Conrad Miller. Louise was disabled and worked at New Horizons in Batesville. She had been a resident at the Manderley Health Care Center in Osgood since 2005 and the staff and residents there became her adopted family. Louise, or “Weezy” as she was known to everyone at Manderley, enjoyed playing bingo, pok-e-no, 500 rummy, and listening to Elvis. When she was able Louise enjoyed attending the Little Memory Old Regular Baptist Church. Funeral services for Louise will be held on Sunday, January 20th at 3pm at the Manderley Health Care Center in Osgood with visitation beginning at 2pm. Burial will be in the Little Memory Cemetery near Sunman. Memorials may be given to the activities fund at the Manderley Health Care Center in care of the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles.
Wanda G. Gray, 77, of Versailles passed away Sunday, January 13, 2019 at her home. She was born near Olean on May 31, 1941 the daughter of Gilbert and Evelyn Lane Gray. Survivors include one son James Simmons of Holton; two daughters Susan Whitham of Madison, and Sandy (Grant) Brown of Olean; 8 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren; three brothers Glen Gray of Milan, Robert (Linda) Gray of Versailles, and Ronald (Linda) Gray of Farmers Retreat; two sisters Janice (Wayne) Linkmeyer of Cross Plains, and Marilyn Hope Gray of Olean. She was preceded in death by her parents, her sons Randall Scott and Kenneth Simmons, and her brothers Gene, Gary, and John Gray. Ms. Gray was a 1959 graduate of Cross Plains High School. She was a former employee of Grote in Madison and was the former owner-operator of the Friendship Tavern. She also did painting and wallpapering in the community and had spent seven years living in Ft. Meyers Beach, Florida. For hobbies Wanda enjoyed going to yard sales and flea markets, and quilting. Wanda was a member of the Bear Creek Baptist Church in Friendship. Funeral services will be held on Monday, January 21st at 10:30am at the Bear Creek Baptist Church with Rev. Sherman Hughes officiating. Burial will be in the Cliff Hill Cemetery in Versailles. Visitation will be on Sunday from 3pm to 6pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles and from 9:30am until time of services Monday at the church. Memorials may be given to the Bear Creek Baptist Church or to Rescue 69 in care of the funeral home.
Myrtle Conover, 76, of Rexville passed away at 9:45pm, Friday, January 11, 2019 at the Kings Daughters Hospital in Madison. She was born near Bryantsburg in Jefferson County on August 21, 1942 the daughter of James Cecil and Alta Banks Campbell. She was married to Alva Conover on November 17, 1963 and he preceded her in death on June 26, 1997. Survivors include one son Lee (Anna) Conover of Hanover; two daughters Twila (Thomas Goeft) Hammond of Versailles, and Monica (Phillip) Durham of Milton, Kentucky; 10 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren; one brother James Campbell of Salem; one sister Mary (Richard) Black of Cross Plains. She was also preceded in death by her parents. Mrs. Conover was a 1960 graduate of New Marion High School and was a cheerleader for the Panther basketball team. She was a former employee of Western Union in Madison and also the Versailles State Park. She retired as a supervisor in 2002 after 40 years with Reliance Electric at Madison. Myrtle enjoyed playing euchre, dominoes, and board games with her grandchildren. She also spent her time doing puzzles, crocheting, and enjoyed mowing her yard. Myrtle was a long time member of the Shelby Christian Church. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, January 19th at 11am at the Shelby Christian Church with Tim Heim officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Visitation will be on Friday from 5pm to 8pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles and from 10am until time of services Saturday at the church. Memorials may be given to the Shelby Christian Church in care of the funeral home.
James Wilkie Lemon was born February 7, 1926, in Friendship, In., and departed this life in Batesville, In. January 6, 2019. Jim was the son of Wilkie S. and Edna (Elrod) Lemon. He married Patricia Moran of Versailles, In. August 24, 1949, and she survives. Jim will also be missed by his daughter Evelyn Israel and husband Charles, sons James Lemon and wife Nan, and Tracy Lemon and wife Shirley. Jim was also blessed with 7 grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren, and many loving nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, his Aunt Elsie Lemon, and sisters Carolyn Harms, Mary Chandler, and Elizabeth Hooton. As a child, Jim attended school in Friendship before graduating from Cross Plains High School, in the Class of 1944. Upon graduation from high school, he enlisted in the US Army, being assigned to the 24th Infantry Division, and was deployed to the Philippines and participated in the Battle of Mindanao. After the liberation of Mindanao, he was destined for the Japanese mainland when victory was declared on VJ Day. His unit continued on, and was involved with the occupation of Japan. Jim was Honorably Discharged in November of 1946, with the rank of Staff Sargent. For his service to his country, he was awarded the Bronze Star. Jim returned to his family farm in Friendship, and started his young family, as well as his 55-year career at The Friendship State Bank, serving as its President & Cashier. He additionally served as Chairman of the Board of Directors for many years, retiring in 2014. As a young man, Jim enjoyed farming, playing fast pitch softball and basketball, quail hunting, and trap shooting. Later on, in addition to working at his cattle and sheep farm, he focused on attending his grandchildren’s many school and sporting events. He was also an avid Cincinnati Bengals, Reds, and IU basketball fan. Jim was a member of the Friendship Volunteer Fire Dept., Brown Township Post of the American Legion, Ripley County 40 & 8 Voiture 1047, Versailles Masonic Lodge, and Indianapolis Valley Scottish Rite. He was inducted into the Ripley County Basketball Hall of Fame, and the NMLRA Black Powder Hall of Fame, for his contributions to the organization. Funeral services will be held on Friday, January 11th at 1pm at the Bear Creek Baptist Church in Friendship with Rev. Sherman Hughes officiating. Burial will be in the Benham Cemetery with military graveside rites by the Brown Township American Legion. Visitation will be on Thursday, January 10th from 3pm to 7pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles and from 12pm until time of services Friday at the church. Memorials may be given to the Ripley County 40 & 8 nurses scholarship fund in care of the funeral home.
Mary E. Shockey, 92, of Versailles passed away at 3:40pm, Sunday, January 6, 2019 at the Southpointe Health Center in Indianapolis. She was born near Elrod on September 18, 1926 the daughter of Raymond and Sylvia Roberts Boyd. She was married to Arnold Shockey on October 20, 1945 and he preceded her in death on March 15, 1997. Survivors include one son Charles (Linda) Shockey of Indianapolis; two grandchildren Eric (Tammy) Shockey and Holly (Charles) Lindsey of Indianapolis; 9 great- grandchildren; one sister Fern Day of Richmond, Kentucky, and special friend Anita Morris of Milan. She was also preceded in death by her parents, her brother Estell Boyd, and her sisters Edna Shockey and Irma Bavis. Mrs. Shockey was a 1945 graduate of Versailles High School. She was employed with the Amos Jackson Abstract Company in Versailles in 1953 and served as Ripley County Deputy Recorder from 1963 to 1970. In 1971 she became the co-owner of the Ripley County Abstract Company, a position she held until her retirement in 1997. Mary loved to cook for her family, especially baking at the holidays. She was an accomplished seamstress and made many Afghans as well as clothes for members of her family. Mary was a former member of the Busy Bees Home Economics Club at Elrod and was a long time member of the Washington Baptist Church at Elrod. Funeral services will be held at 2pm Wednesday, January 9th at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Rev. Bruce Fitzsimmons of the Washington Baptist Church officiating. Burial will be in the Washington Cemetery. Visitation will also be on Wednesday beginning at 12pm. Memorials may be given to the Washington Cemetery in care of the funeral home.
April J. Miller, 62, of Sunman passed away at 6:15am, Wednesday, January 2, 2019 at the Methodist Hospital in Indianapolis. She was born at Bedford on September 27, 1956 the daughter of Donnie and Susan Deckard Lee. Survivors include her mother Susan (Jim) Collins of Versailles; one daughter Michelle (Jacob) Campen of Moores Hill; grandchildren Faith Lynn Marsh and Jayden Campen; three brothers John (Colyn) York of Edinburgh, Don (Patricia) Lee of Bedford, and Timmy Collins of Osgood; one sister Frances York of Versailles. She was preceded in death by her father, her brother Jay Daniel York, her sons Michael and Larry Thomas, and her daughter Melissa Graham. Ms. Miller was a former employee of KB Specialty Foods in Greensburg. April’s wishes were to be cremated and services will be held at the convenience of the family. Memorials may be given to the donor’s choice in care of the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles.
