Obituaries for Year 2022

 
Stratton - Karsteter Funeral Home
Versailles Indiana
812 - 689 -1171

Catherine (Katie) Louise Ward Werner, age 88, died peacefully on December 20, 2022,

at her daughter’s home in Sellersburg, IN. She was born on February 1, 1934, to Louise Schroder Ward and Charles Paul Ward in Batesville, IN. She was one of six children: Don Ward, Elizabeth Ward Block, Charlene Ward, John Ward and Bernard Ward.

Katie graduated in 1952 from Osgood High School. After graduation she worked at Western Southern Life in Cincinnati, OH but found city life was not for her and returned home and began working as a secretary at Public Service in Greensburg. On November 26, 1953, she married the love of her life, Herman (Duke) Werner Jr. and they were happily married for 56 years until Duke passed away on September 7, 2009. Catherine spent her life as a dedicated homemaker and loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother.

Cooking was her soul soother, bringing her and others much joy and everyone always looked forward to her infamous pecan pie and chili. She also enjoyed spending time with friends, eating out and entertaining (especially fish fries). She was an avid sports fan and never missed a Florida basketball game. However, her biggest love was spending time with her family. Katie was a long time member of St. Paul Lutheran Church of Olean where over the years she volunteered working on quilts for missions, singing in the choir, and providing food for various church events. She was also a member of the Delta Rho Chapter of Tri Kappa.

Preceding her in death were her parents, husband Herman, sisters Elizabeth Block and Charlene Ward, brother Bernard Ward, sisters-in-law: Veronica Ward, Glenna Ward, Janet Ward, Esther Geisler, Marie Werner, and Maxine Werner, brothers-in-law: Norman Werner, Estol (PeeWee) Werner, and Richard Block, nephews Randy Ward, Don Ward Jr, Richard Geisler and Billy Geisler. Catherine is survived by her children Kay (Kevin) Byrne of Sellersburg, IN, Jeff (Melissa) Werner of North Manchester, IN, Chris (Shelley) Werner of Cincinnati, OH, and David (Gwen) Werner of Gainesville, FL; five grandchildren, Dylan Liz) Werner, Kory (Carrie) Byrne, Makayla, Catherine Grace, and Colton Werner; three great grandchildren, Luna Michaels, Marley and Kellen Byrne; brothers Don Ward and John Ward and numerous nieces and nephews.

The family would like to sincerely thank Amedisys Hospice Care, especially Jessica Richey, her nurse and Amanda Nelson, caregiver, for their warm and exceptional care.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, December 28 at 11am at the St. Paul Lutheran Church in Olean with Pastor Mark Booster officiating. Burial will be in the Cliff Hill Cemetery in Versailles. Visitation will be held on Tuesday from 5pm to 7pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the St. Paul Lutheran Church or the Cliff Hill Cemetery in care of the funeral home.

Muriel “Jean” Adkins, 97, of Versailles passed away at 10:50am, Sunday, December 18, 2022 at the Margaret Mary Community Hospital in Batesville. She was born near Vevay on June 6, 1925, the daughter of Everett and Juanita Ramseyer O'Day. She was married to Alfred Adkins in Corpus Christi, Texas on March 19, 1944 and he preceded her in death on May 29, 1987. Survivors include four sons Timothy Adkins of Madison, Ted Adkins of Modesto, California, Pat Adkins of Akron, Ohio, and Tracy Adkins of Versailles; 18 grandchildren, 28 great-grandchildren, and 3 great-great-grandchildren. She was also preceded in death by her parents, her daughters Denise Goodpaster and Melissa (Mitzi) May, her sons Tommy and Micheal Adkins, grandchildren Garrett Goodpaster and Meghan May, her great-grandson Ryan Davis, her son-in-law David May, her daughter-in-laws Velia Adkins and Normalene Adkins, and her brothers Earl O'Day and Nelson Graham. Mrs. Adkins attended school in Vevay and upon her family's move to Ripley County she graduated from Versailles High School in 1943. Jean was a long time clerical worker for the Jefferson Proving Ground, Ripley County Clerk, Treasurer and Auditor Offices and also cleaned homes for folks in the Versailles community. She was a volunteer for the Madison State Hospital for over 50 years and in her spare time enjoyed working crossword puzzles and reading. Jean had kept a diary of the everyday events in the life of her family for several years. Jean was a member of the Tanglewood Baptist Church and was a member of the Versailles American Legion Auxiliary for over 50 years. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, December 27 at 10am at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Rev. Becky Pohle officiating. Burial will be in the Vevay Cemetery. Visitation will be on Monday from 5pm to 7pm. Memorials may be given to the Versailles American Legion Auxiliary in care of the funeral home.

Katherine Jeanne Steinhauer, age 93, of Versailles, IN passed away December 10, 2022, at Aspen Place in Greensburg, IN.

Jeanne was born August 16, 1929, in Moline, Illinois, the daughter of John and Gladys Whalen. She studied Nursing at Mercy Hospital and her career spanned nearly fifty years. Jeanne met and married Russ Steinhauer in 1951 and raised five children, Tamea Hewitt (Jerry), Theresa Brock (Ken), Ben Steinhauer (Linda), Bob Steinhauer (Jeanne), and John Steinhauer (Eileen).

Jeanne enjoyed spending time with her 12 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren, baking, sewing, and traveling.

Jeanne was preceded in death by her husband, Russ in 1985 and will be missed by her children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, numerous nieces, and nephews, along with anyone lucky enough to have met her.

A funeral mass will be said in her memory on December 29^th at 11:00 am at St. Bartholomew Catholic Church, 9375 Winton Road, Cincinnati, OH 45231.

The family extends their thanks and appreciation to Aspen Place for the compassionate care given to their mother.

Robert Steven “Steve” Baugh of Versailles, IN entered into eternal rest at 12:35pm Monday, December 12, 2022 at Margaret Mary Hospital in Batesville, IN.

Steve was born April 11^th, 1947 in Decatur County, the youngest son of Keith and Emma (Carter) Baugh.

He was married to Lynn (Hoban) Baugh on January 26^th, 1969 and she survives. Other survivors include their son David (Lisa) Baugh of Versailles, IN and grandchildren Jacob Baugh of Greenwood, IN and Danielle Baugh of Evansville, IN. He is also survived by sister Shirley Hooten of Columbus, IN, brother Gene (Sharon) Baugh of Carmel, IN, and sister in-law Connie Baugh of Tampa, Fl. He was proceeded in death by both of his parents, his youngest son who passed in 2009, Greg Baugh, his siblings Shelley Baugh, Karen (Bob) Elliott, and brother in-law Bill Hooten.

Steve had a love of sports and grew up playing basketball in the barn lot of his family farm in Forest Hill, which was one of his first memories. At Jackson High School in Decatur County, Steve was an all-around athlete, excelling in basketball, baseball, and track. In 1964, he was selected to the high school All American team. He set the all-time Decatur County points scored record with 1,982 points; a record that still stands. Following high school, Steve continued his basketball career at Florida State for one year. He then enlisted into the Army during the Vietnam War, where he was a payroll master with the 1^st Infantry Company for two years going from Private E-1 to Sargent E-6 while stationed near Saigon.

Following his army service, he began his insurance career. He spent 12 years with Farm Bureau in Decatur County, before coming to Versailles with State Farm, where he just celebrated his 40^th anniversary with the company. Through his State Farm business, Steve generously supported the area schools, Special Olympics, and his community. His passions included golf, playing cards, and spending time with family and friends. You knew he liked you if he was giving you a hard way to go.

Steve was a member of the Versailles Baptist Church, where he was the treasurer, a choir member, and a trustee. He was a fifty-two-year member of the Versailles American Legion Leora Weare Post 173.

Visitation will be from 3:00-6:00 PM on Sunday, December 18^th at Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM on Monday, December 19^th at Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home with Mike Cantrell of Versailles Baptist Church officiating. Interment will follow services at Cliff Hill Cemetery with Military Honors performed by the Versailles American Legion Leora Weare post 173.

Memorials may be given to Versailles Baptist Church or Cliff Hill Cemetery in the care of Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home.

Eugene “Gene” Hafft, 84, of Versailles passed away at 3am, Monday, December 12, 2022 at Grand Brook Memory Care in Greenwood. He was born near New Marion on July 25, 1938, the son of Everett and Helen Handlon Hafft. He was married to Phyliss Horton on April 23, 1963 and she preceded him in death on August 8, 2007. Survivors include one son Jeff (Karen) Hafft of Versailles; two daughters Jackie (Martin Jr.) McNeelan of Franklin and Jennifer (Woodrow) Alley of Indianapolis; 7 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren; one brother Ron Hafft of Bloomington. He was also preceded in death by his parents, and his sister Nina Jo Ruble. Mr. Hafft was a 1955 graduate of New Marion High School. He was a veteran of the US Army, serving from 1961 to 1963 with the 502^nd Transportation Unit. In civilian life Gene spent his career as a truck driver, driving for Reliance Electric in Madison for over 30 years. Gene was a member of the Versailles Baptist Church and the Versailles Lions Club, both of which he was very dedicated to. In 2010 Gene was named a Melvin Jones Fellow, a coveted award presented by Lions International. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, December 17 at 3pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Rev. Richard Burcham officiating. Burial will be in the Shelby Cemetery. Visitation will also be on Saturday beginning at 1pm. Memorials may be given to the Versailles Baptist Church or the Versailles Lions Club in care of the funeral home.

Frank J. LaGreca, 89, of Dillsboro passed away Sunday, December 4, 2022 at Norton Women’s and Children’s Hospital in Louisville. He was born in East Rutherford, New Jersey on April 16, 1933, the son of Joseph and Grace Marlino LaGreca. He was married to Beatrice Edwards on November 22, 1954 and she preceded him in death on October 31, 1997. He was married to Eileen Vogel Hunger on May 25, 2002 and she survives. Other survivors include five sons David (Amy) LaGreca of Cincinnati, Steve (Susie) LaGreca of Bear Branch, Mark LaGreca of Dillsboro,  Steve (Conda) Hunger of Greencastle, and Bradley Hunger of North Vernon; one daughter Jean (David) Ocha of New Mexico; son-in-law Jerry Martin of Moores Hill; 16 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandson; one brother Sal (Cathy) LaGreca of New Jersey. He was also preceded in death by his parents, his sons Danny LaGreca and Mark Hunger, and his daughter Michele Martin. Frank graduated from East Rutherford High School in 1951 where he was a standout football player. He had been awarded a scholarship on the college level, but was injured in the last game of the season which forced him to forfeit his college football career. Later in 1951 he joined the US Navy and was assigned to radio communications using short wave radio on the USS Wisconsin during the Korean War. Frank was honorably discharged from the Navy in 1955 after which he began his working career. He was employed with Motorola, Conn Organ, and retired as an electrical engineer from the Medical Division of Siemans in Tennessee. During his time in Tennessee, Frank was instrumental in preserving Royal Blue, a large recreational and conservation area. After his retirement he moved back to Indiana. He loved hunting from when he went with his father until this past September which was the first hunting season he had missed since he was a teenager. During retirement he worked for Ohio Travel Treasures in Cincinnati as a step on tour guide of the Tri-County area. He loved meeting the people and always had stories and jokes to tell the travelers. Frank also worked for the NMLRA in Friendship where he enjoyed meeting people through the spring and fall shoots. Frank's passion was flying and he had his pilot’s license and had flown float planes and Cessna 172’s, later returning to remote control flying. He had partnered with two friends to purchase a Champion 7 EC plane. Frank was a member of the St. Paul Lutheran Church at Olean, AOPA, Air Masters RC Flying Club in North Bend, Ohio, and the American Legion. Frank’s wishes were to be cremated and a celebration of his life will be held on Wednesday, December 14^th at 12pm at the St. Paul Lutheran Church in Olean with Pastor Dennis Zimmerman officiating. Visitation will begin at 10am. Memorials may be given to the Special Olympics or the Downs Syndrome Foundation in care of the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles.

Eugene “Gene” Hafft, 84, of Versailles passed away at 3am, Monday, December 12, 2022 at Grand Brook Memory Care in Greenwood. He was born near New Marion on July 25, 1938, the son of Everett and Helen Handlon Hafft. He was married to Phyliss Horton on April 23, 1963 and she preceded him in death on August 8, 2007. Survivors include one son Jeff (Karen) Hafft of Versailles; two daughters Jackie (Martin Jr.) McNeelan of Franklin and Jennifer (Woodrow) Alley of Indianapolis; 7 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren; one brother Ron Hafft of Bloomington. He was also preceded in death by his parents, and his sister Nina Jo Ruble. Mr. Hafft was a 1955 graduate of New Marion High School. He was a veteran of the US Army, serving from 1961 to 1963 with the 502^nd Transportation Unit. In civilian life Gene spent his career as a truck driver, driving for Reliance Electric in Madison for over 30 years. Gene was a member of the Versailles Baptist Church and the Versailles Lions Club, both of which he was very dedicated to. In 2010 Gene was named a Melvin Jones Fellow, a coveted award presented by Lions International. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, December 17 at 3pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Rev. Richard Burcham officiating. Burial will be in the Shelby Cemetery. Visitation will also be on Saturday beginning at 1pm. Memorials may be given to the Versailles Baptist Church or the Versailles Lions Club in care of the funeral home.

Jeanette R. Brumfield, 92, of Versailles passed away at 1:45pm, Sunday, November 27, 2022 at the Manderley Health Care Center in Osgood. She was born in Cincinnati on February 13, 1930, the daughter of Andrew and Frances Brooks Van Coney. She was married to Richard Dawson on April 3, 1948 and he preceded her in death on August 21, 1960. She married Fred Brumfield on January 25, 1963 and he preceded her in death on July 3, 1998. Survivors include two daughters Cindy Jennings and Judy Brumfield both of Versailles; 6 grandchildren, 7 great-grandchildren, and 3 great-great-grandchildren. She was also preceded in death by her parents, and her sisters Stella, Alma, Thelma, Katzie, Betty, Laura, Ilene, and Rose. Mrs. Brumfield was known as the “Plant Lady” in the Versailles community where she operated her greenhouse at Five Points for 35 years. Prior to her move to Indiana she had owned and operated the Gift and Delicatessen store with locations in North Bend and Saylor Park, Ohio. She was also a homemaker and enjoyed time with her large family. Jeanette was a member of the Eastern Star and also the Tyson United Methodist Church. Funeral services will be held on Thursday, December 1 at 10:30am at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Pastor Gwen Durkee of the Tyson UMC officiating. Visitation will be held on Wednesday from 5pm to 7pm. Jeanette's wishes were to be cremated and burial will follow at a later date. Memorials may be given to the Ripley County Humane Society in care of the funeral home.

Mary H. Cowell, 90, of Versailles passed away at 1am, Monday, November 21, 2022 at the Manderley Health Care Center in Osgood. She was born in New Albany on December 8, 1931, the daughter of Lloyd and Mable Keithley Harmon. She was married to Thomas R. Cowell, Sr. on October 6, 1951 and he preceded her in death on November 12, 1991. Survivors include one son Thomas “Robbie” (Ellen) Cowell, Jr. of Versailles; two daughters Durenda (Kevin) Bartley of Louisville and Lynette (Bill) Ruckman of Greenville; 5 grandchildren, 5 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild; one brother Ronnie (Sharon) Harmon of Arizona. She was also preceded in death by her parents, her brothers Carl and Jerry Harmon, and her sister Lana Jean Siltz. Mrs. Cowell was a 1949 graduate of Georgetown (Indiana) High School. She was a homemaker and had worked for 15 years as a medications aid at the Green Valley Care Center in New Albany. Mary was a member of the Kingdom Hall Jehovah's Witnesses in Aurora. Mary's wishes were to be cremated and there will be a memorial service at a later date at her church. The Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles is in charge of arrangements.

Melissa Ann “Mitzi” May, 65, of Versailles passed away at 10:45am, Saturday, November 19, 2022 at the Margaret Mary Hospital in Batesville. She was born in Batesville on June 29, 1957, the daughter of Alfred and Jean O'Day Adkins. She was married to David May on July 10, 1976, and he preceded her in death on March 12, 2020. Survivors include one son Michael (Adrian Read) May of Coventry, England; one daughter Amber May of Versailles; her mother Mrs. Jean Adkins of Versailles; grandchildren Dylan, Michaela, and Mallory Brizius; four brothers Timmy Adkins of Madison, Teddy Adkins of Modesto, California, Pat Adkins of Akron, Ohio, and Tracy Adkins of Versailles. She was preceded in death by her father, her daughter Meghan, her sister Denise Goodpaster, her brothers Tom and Micheal Adkins, her nephew Garrett Goodpaster,and her sisters-in-law Velia and Normalene. Mrs. May was a 1975 graduate of South Ripley High School. Mitzi was a long time employee of the NMLRA in Friendship and had retired from the Versailles State Park. She was typically the life of the party and was always happy if she could make people laugh. She also enjoyed time with her grandchildren and writing poetry. Mitzi was a member of the Tanglewood Baptist Church and the Versailles American Legion Auxiliary. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, November 26 at 10:30am at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Rev. Becky Pohle officiating. Visitation will be on Friday from 5pm to 7pm. Mitzi's wishes were to be cremated and burial will follow at a later date in the Tanglewood Cemetery. Memorials may be given to the Versailles American Legion Auxiliary in care of the funeral home.

Timmy L. Starkey, 53, of Osgood passed away suddenly Monday, November 14, 2022 at the Mercy Harrison Hospital in Harrison, Ohio. He was born in Batesville on February 28, 1969 the son of Ralph and Jessie Caplinger Starkey. He was married to Leitha LaFollette on September 12, 2004 and she survives. Other survivors include his mother Jessie (Raymond) Zapfe of Westport; two sons Rusty (Katlyn) Spurlock of Versailles and Brad Spurlock of Aurora; three daughters Cassandra (Steve) Arney of Versailles, Gabrielle LaFollette of Greenwood, and Brittany (Jeff) Downey of Versailles; grandchildren Abby Arney, Bella and Gracie Downey, Draven, Jaylon, Daniel, Connor, and Colton Spurlock, and Eli and Joanna Horn; one brother Buddy (Lori) Starkey of Sweet Home, Oregon; six sisters Tina (Al) Asche of Osgood, Carol Brashear of Butlerville, Michelle (Richard) Struckman and Denise (Bobby) Cole both of Westport, Mary (Michael) Mulroy of Milan, and Cindy Starkey of Osgood. He was preceded in death by his father and his granddaughters Shaylyn and Jocelyn Spurlock. Timmy was employed with Ollier Masonry in Batesville for 25 years where he worked as a hod carrier. He was a member of the Sons of the American Legion, Osgood Post 237. Timmy loved his family and his grandchildren were his world. He and Leitha enjoyed ranger riding, Friday date nights, and taking in the outdoors. Visitation will be held on Friday, November 18 from 4pm to 7pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles. Memorials may be given to the donor's choice in care of the funeral home.

Roger J. Harrell, 73, of New Palestine passed away at 8:05am, Friday, November 11, 2022 at the Legacy of Springfield in Greenfield. He was born in Batesville on December 5, 1948, the son of Clayton and Irene Gnelle Cox Harrell. He was married to Phyllis (Jessica) Brown on March 26, 2009 and she survives. Other survivors include two sons Jake (Tiffany) Harrell of Merritt Island, Florida and Brad Harrell of Melbourne, Florida; two daughters Wendy (Robert) Stanley of Port St. Lucie, Florida and Christie Graham of Kenosha, Wisconsin; two step-sons Dan (Barb) Johnson of Indianapolis and Don (Joanne) Johnson of Avon; one step-daughter Dawn (Ron) Knapp of Tallahassee, Florida; 14 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren; one brother Marvin (Patty) Harrell of Holton. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother Danny Harrell. Mr. Harrell grew up on the family farm near Holton and was a 1967 graduate of Holton High School. He received his Bachelor’s Degree in accounting from Indiana University in 1971. Roger’s working career spanned many years and he retired from Frontier Trucking in Indianapolis where he worked as the firm’s accountant. Roger was an avid sports fan following the Indiana Hoosiers, Cincinnati Reds, and Indianapolis Colts and also enjoyed bowling, participating in various bowling leagues. Roger was a member of the Brookville Road Community Church in New Palestine. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, November 16 at 12pm at the Hopewell Baptist Church with Roger’s nephew Pastor Mitch Harrell and Pastor Hubert Nolan of the Brookville Road Community Church officiating. Burial will be in the Hopewell Cemetery. Visitation will be from 5pm to 7pm on Tuesday and will also be held at the Hopewell Baptist Church. Memorials may be given to the Hopewell Baptist Church or the Hope Center in Indianapolis in care of the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles.

Norris E. Krall, 88, of Osgood passed away at 1:20pm, Monday, November 7, 2022 at Arbor Grove in Greensburg. He was born on Tapps Ridge in Switzerland County on February 8, 1934 the son of Elmer and Norma Whitham Krall. He was married to Mary Elizabeth Lock on June 29, 1956 and she preceded him in death on October 8, 1981. He married Gloria Joan Tucker Martin on August 14, 1982 and she preceded him in death on December 20, 2017. Survivors include three sons James Kenneth (Linda) Krall and Michael Krall both of Osgood, and Terry (Diane) Krall of Carmel; one step-son Anthony (Debra) Martin of of Fairland; three step-daughters Michele “Mitzi” (Rodger) Chapelow of Zenas, Kimberly Martin of Franklin, and Candace (Danny) Robinson of Shelbyville; six grandchildren, 14 step-grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, 12 step-great-grandchildren, and 2 step-great-great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his special friend Rheadawn Metz of Greesnburg. Norris received his elementary education in the one room school at Mt. Hope on Tapps Ridge, where he met Mary. He was a 1951 graduate of Vevay High School and graduated from Indiana University with distinction in 1955 with a degree in Business Administration, Accounting Specialty. He was a Certified Public Accountant and was employed from 1955 until 1962 by Lybrand, Ross Bros. & Montgomery, initially on the audit staff in Louisville and later was transferred to the Management Consulting Services staff in Chicago. He served in the US Army from 1956 to 1958 as a Lieutenant in the Finance Corps at the Finance School, U. S. Army at Ft. Benjamin Harrison, Indiana, as an instructor, writer of training manuals and later as Company Commander of a student detachment. In January 1963, he joined Thomas & Skinner, the oldest manufacturer of permanent magnets in the U.S., in Indianapolis as controller. He advanced from controller and served as secretary, treasurer, vice-president, and president until his retirement in 1999. He continued to serve as Chairman of the Board until age 80 in April 2014 at which time he resigned and then was named Director Emeritus for life. He was baptized in the Fredonia Baptist Church on Tapps Ridge and later belonged to the Rolling Fields Baptist Church in Jeffersonville, Park Grove Baptist Church in Beech Grove, the Pleasant Grove Baptist Church at Fairland, and had been a member of the Dabney Baptist Church since 1976 where he served as a Deacon, teacher, and treasurer. He was also a life member and former director of the Ripley County Historical Society. He and Joan had written several history books including Lest We Forget, a history of the WWII veterans of Ripley County, A Look at Life, short stories and poems by Lester Tucker, History of the Dabney Baptist Church and Community, volumes 1 & 2 of the History of Ripley County, and Past Tense, a history of the Holton Schools. Funeral services will be held on Friday, November 11 at 12pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Rev. Mark Sorrels of the Dabney Baptist Church officiating. Burial will be in the Greendale Cemetery in Osgood with military rites by the Versailles American Legion. Visitation will also be on Friday beginning at 10am. Memorials may be given to the Dabney Baptist Church or the Ripley County Historical Society in care of the funeral home.

 Donna Sue Nugent, 81, of Versailles passed away at 2:30pm, Wednesday, October 12, 2022 at the Margaret Mary Community Hospital in Batesville. She was born in Milan on August 12, 1941, the daughter of Donald and Ina Patrick Creigmile. She was married to Randy Nugent on December 23, 1993 and he preceded her in death on April 22, 2020. Survivors include two children, six grandchildren, and several great-grandchildren; one sister Janet (Dennis) Schwanholt of Versailles; one brother Kenneth Creigmile of Versailles; three step-children, and her special friend Brigetta. She was also preceded in death by her parents, her brother Danny Creigmile, and her sisters-in-law Maxine and Faye Creigmile. . Mrs. Nugent was a 1959 graduate of Versailles High School. Donna spent her working career of 35 years at Hill-Rom in Batesville. She was a caregiver at her home for many stray and homeless dogs. Donna loved spending time with her family and her friends at McDonalds. Graveside services will be held on Monday, October 17 at 11am at the Cliff Hill Cemetery in Versailles with Bro. Earl Thomas officiating. Memorials may be given to the Ripley County Humane Society in care of the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles.

Christopher Thomas Rohrig, 41, passed away on Saturday, October 8, 2022, at his home in North Vernon. He was born in Batesville on February 19, 1981, the son of Daryle and Debbie Burress Rohrig. Survivors include his parents, Daryle and Debbie Rohrig of Moores Hill; one brother Clint Rohrig of Union, Kentucky; one sister Mary Beth Rohrig of Versailles; his paternal grandmother Louise Rohrig of Milan; nephews Jacob, Joshua, Jarett, and Luke Rohrig, and his nieces Kimber Rohrig and Melena Holman. He was preceded in death by his brother Daryle Wayne Rohrig, and his grandparents John Rohrig and Dolores Meyer. Chris was a 1999 graduate of Milan High School. He had many things in life that he enjoyed, especially the company of his family. He was a huge fan of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Tampa Bay Rays. He liked watching basketball and wrestling and enjoyed a good cold Coca-Cola while listening to music by Poison, Guns-n-Roses, and Def Leppard. Chris was a member of the St. Charles Catholic Church in Milan. Mass of Christian Burial for Chris will be on Wednesday, October 12 at 10a.m. at St. Charles Catholic Cemetery in Milan with Father Shaun Whittington officiating. Burial will be in the Craven Cemetery at Milan. Visitation will be on Tuesday from 5p.m. to 8pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Rosary services at 4:30p.m. Memorials may be given to Special Olympics in care of the funeral home.

Leroy Comer, 84, of Osgood passed away at 3:15pm, Sunday, October 2, 2022 at his residence. He was born near Osgood on February 28, 1938, the son of Godfrey George and Anna Dorathea Thielbar Comer. He was married to Mary Louise Russell on May 17, 1958 and she preceded him in death on May 9, 2019. Survivors include one son John (Brenda) Comer of Underwood; one daughter Janice (Larry) Scheidler of Greensburg; daughter in law Brenda A. Comer of Adams; 6 grandchildren Joshua, Jeremy, Johnathan, Katie, Michael and James; 15 great-grandchildren, 2 great-great grandchildren; one brother Gayle Comer of Deerfield, Florida; one sister Mabel Flick of Holton. He was preceded in death by his parents, his son James, and his brothers Clarence, Norman and Leonard. Mr. Comer’s working career spanned many years. He was a former employee of the Muscatatuck State Hospital, built pre-fabricated hog and cattle houses with Bob McDaniels, worked for the Ripley County Farm Bureau Co-Op, drove a semi for Wendy’s, and ended his career as a driver for Oliver Trucking. Leroy was a member of the Osgood Masonic Lodge and Milford, Kentucky Masonic Lodge. Leroy’s wishes were to be cremated and a celebration of his life will be held at a later date with the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles in charge of arrangements.

Lynn Baurley, 73, of Versailles passed away Friday, September 30, 2022, at the Mercy Anderson Hospital in Cincinnati. She was born in Batesville on December 5, 1948, the daughter of Gayle and Joan Daily Geisler. She was married to Charles Baurley on October 14, 1967, and he preceded her in death on January 9, 2021. Survivors include her mother Joan Geisler of Versailles; three daughters Tammy (Chris) Linville of Osgood, Amy (Edward) Rodriguez and Lisa Baurley both of Versailles; four grandchildren Zach (Nicole) Linville of Versailles, Heather (Shane) Adams of Osgood, and Edward and Aaliyah Rodriguez of Versailles; three great-grandchildren Zoey and Chase Linville and Allison Adams. She was also preceded in death by her father and her sister Melody Arney. Mrs. Geisler was a 1966 graduate of New Marion High School. She graduated from the Miller-Draughton Business College in 1967 and received her LPN certification from Ivy Tech in 1991. Lynn completed her RN certification from Ivy Tech in 1995. She was a former employee of Baylor Trucking in Milan where she worked in the dispatch office and retired from the Ripley County Sheriff’s Department where she worked as a nurse. She enjoyed sewing and doing puzzles, but her most cherished role was that of being Grandma. Lynn was a former member of the St. Magdalene Catholic Church in New Marion and upon its closure became a member of St. Patrick Catholic Church in Madison. Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday, October 5 at 11a.m. at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Madison with Father Chris Craig officiating. Burial will be in the St. Magdalene Cemetery in Madison. Visitation will be on Tuesday from 5p.m. to 8p.m. at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Rosary services beginning at 4:30p.m. Memorials may be given to the Charles and Lynn Baurley Scholarship Fund in care of the funeral home. 

 Christian Phillip Schuler, 39, of Versailles passed away Saturday, September 17, 2022 as the result of an automobile accident near Butlerville. He was born on February 16, 1983 in Lawrenceburg. Survivors include his mother Darlene Schuler of Holton; one daughter Whittney Schuler and one son Gauge Schuler both at home; also his companion and soul mate Tamara Ward. Mr. Schuler was a warehouse technician for Sazerac in New Albany. Christian was a gamer and was also an excellent mechanic. His wishes were to be cremated and a celebration of his life will be held at a later date. The Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles is handling the arrangements.

Opal Irene Lewis, 79, of Osgood, formerly of Beattyville, Kentucky, passed away at 12:20pm, Sunday, September 18, 2022, at the Margaret Mary Community Hospital in Batesville. She was born in Hanover on May 3, 1943, the daughter of James and Sarah Trent Coldiron. Survivors include four sons Dennis (Angie) Gaither of Osgood, David Baker and Basil Lewis III both of Radcliff, Kentucky, and Mark Jessie of Columbus; four daughters Pam (Carson) Trent of Greensburg, Diane (Larry) Traugott of Frankfort, Kentucky, Lana (Darryl) Jackson of Cynthiana, Kentucky, and Nolalee (Charles) McIntosh of Beattyville; several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, her companion Danny White, her son Frankie Baker, brothers Frank, George, and Taylor Coldiron, and her sisters Hazel and Lurie Coldiron, Louverne Steele, and Geneva Horner. Mrs. Lewis was a homemaker. She enjoyed being at her farm in Lee County, Kentucky, reading, feeding the hummingbirds, listening to country music, and taking care of her dog Gristopher. Visitation will be on Sunday, September 25 from 3pm to 5pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles. There will be a short service at 4:30pm with Bob McCreary of the Holton Christian Church officiating. Graveside services will be held on Monday, September 26 at 1pm at the Pleasant Grove Cemetery in Booneville, Kentucky. Memorials may be given to the Ripley County Humane Society in care of the funeral home

Kathy Jo Brown, 67, of Versailles passed away at 11:50am, Tuesday, September 13, 2022 at the Christ Hospital in Cincinnati. She was born in Batesville on February 19, 1955 the daughter of Joseph and Sylvia Augustine Mulford. Survivors include two sons Kris (Ai) Brown and Joe Brown both of Versailles; one daughter Lisa Hutson of Versailles; grandchildren Cain and Cyle Meyer, Kurt Hutson, and Hailey, Brooklyn, Joey, and Alex Brown; brother-in-law Wayne Peace of Osgood; sister-in-law Judy Mulford of Napoleon, along with several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, grandchildren Kacy and Grace, her brother Dan Mulford, and her sisters Barbara Peace and Mary Elizabeth Mulford. Ms. Brown attended Jac-Cen-Del High School and received her Associate’s degree in accounting from Ivy Tech. She was a former employee of Sears in Versailles, but was best known in the community as the office manager for the Versailles branch of Laughery Valley Co-op. Kathy had this position for over 30 years, retiring in August of 2021. Visitation will be on Monday, September 19 from 5pm to 7pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles. Kathy’s wishes were to be cremated and there will be no services following.  Memorials may be given to the Ripley County Humane Society in care of the funeral home.

Delbert M. Felix, 55, of Madison passed away Thursday, September 1, 2022 near Louisville. He was born in Indianapolis on June 8, 1967 the son of Delbert and Angelina Naccarato Felix. He was married to Donna Ralston on August 28, 1992 and she survives. Other survivors include his daughter Katelyn Felix and her companion Patrick Fullerton of Madison; his sister Dana (Jim) Roark of Holton;  his mother-in-law Shirley Ralston of Westport; brother-in-law William (Mary) Ralston of Holton; sisters-in-law Karen (Vince) Erfmeier of Napoleon, Lisa (Jesse) Richardson of Cedar Grove, Tennessee, and Cindy (Doug) Puckett of Westport. He was preceded in death by his parents, his father-in-law William Ralston, brother-in-law Michael Ralston, and his nephew Jesse Sizemore. Mr. Felix was a 1985 graduate of Jac-Cen-Del High School. He was known throughout the county for his participation with local fire departments and life squads. He was a driver and first responder for Rescue 69 for 17 years and was a former member of the Delaware, Osgood, and Holton Fire Departments. He was a former employee of the Ripley County Red Cross where he worked as an office manager and the Emergency Disaster Team Leader. Delbert was a member of the Dabney Baptist Church, American Amateur Radio Association, and was a founder of the Ripley County HAM Radio Club. Delbert’s wishes were to be cremated and there are no immediate plans for services. Memorials may be given to the donor’s choice in care of the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles.

Olga (Lipphardt) Patrick, age 94, passed away peacefully August 22, 2022. She was

born on September 6, 1927 in Tsingtao, China to German refugees Karl and Olga

(Neumann) Lipphardt.

 Olga first married at age 19 to John Etchison, a United States Marine, from

Crawfordsville, Indiana. His untimely death sent her on a journey alone to America after

WWII, with their infant son in tow. She went on to meet and marry Kenneth Hendrix,

who was a Lutheran minister in training at the time. Together they had four children, one

daughter and three sons. On June 20, 1957, Olga officially became a Naturalized

Citizen of the United States of America. She was so very proud of that and talked about

it often. Kenneth preceded her in death in 1980.

 She enjoyed various types of needlework, such as crochet, cross stitch, and

embroidery. She even successfully mastered crewel embroidery - a technique using

wool yarn that dates back to medieval time periods used in tapestries and clothing. Her

mother was a seamstress, so she naturally excelled in these hobbies. Collecting knick

knacks and making crochet clothes for dolls (especially Kewpies) were things she

enjoyed doing to pass the time.

 At age 80, Olga found a new love and life with Earnest Patrick, of Holton, Indiana. He

quickly became a beloved part of the family, and they were blessed with several years

together before his passing in 2017.

 She is survived by her children - daughter, Joyce (Doc) Banks; sons, Michael (Barbara)

Hendrix, Timothy Hendrix and Karl (Beverly) Hendrix. She is also survived by 15

grandchildren, 30 great-grandchildren and 15 great-great-grandchildren. Her son, John

Etchison; brother, Robert Lipphardt; grandson Chris Etchison; and great-grandson,

Tyler Smith, also preceded her in death.

 Visitation and funeral services will be held at Stratton Karsteter Funeral Home,

Versailles, Indiana, on Friday, August 26, 2022 from1pm and the funeral will be at 2pm. Burial services will follow in Tanglewood Baptist Church Cemetery, Versailles, Indiana.

Dan Mulford, 70, of Napoleon passed away at 11:30pm, Sunday, August 14, 2022 at his home. He was born in Batesville on May 15, 1952 the son of Joseph and Sylvia Augustine Mulford. He began his journey with his wife Judy Bultman 28 years ago and she survives. Other survivors include one son Danny Mulford of Napoleon; two daughters Lacie (Steve Schrepfer) Johnson and Stacie (Mike) Davis both of Napoleon; 4 grandchildren Keagan Williamson, Avah Schrepfer, and Lathan and Kaisan Davis; one sister Kathy Brown of Versailles; his mother-in-law Mary Bultman of Napoleon; brother-in-law Wayne Peace of Osgood; his uncle Jim Mulford of Elrod, his aunt Mariann Weaver of Franklin, and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, and his sisters Mary Mulford and Barbara Peace. Mr. Mulford was a 1970 graduate of Jac-Cen-Del High School. Dan’s working career spanned many years, working as a dispatcher for both the Greensburg Police Department and the Ripley County Sheriff’s Department. He also was a former employee of The Ranch and the Grub Company, both in Osgood, Bultman Blacktopping, Dave O’Mara Contracting, and had owned and operated the JC Radio Shop in Osgood. He and Judy currently own and operate Southside Spirits in Napoleon. Dan was a member of the Osgood Fire Department for over 40 years where he also served as a First Responder. He was a former member of the Ripley County Local Emergency Planning Commission and a former director for the Ripley County EMA. He was also a member of the Ripley County as well as the National Amateur Radio Clubs. Dan took part in the National Emergency Numbers Association which helped to create the 911 system, was a part of Fallsky.com for weather alerts, and was also an advanced Severe Weather Spotter and Instructor. Funeral services will be held on Thursday, August 18 at 11am at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Johnny Lohrum officiating. Visitation will be on Wednesday from 5pm to 8pm. Memorials may be given to the Osgood Fire Department in care of the funeral home.

Dorene Eleanor (Schraub) Landwehr, 87, of Versailles passed away on Sat., August 13, 2022, in the comfort of her home with her family present.  She was born on Sept. 21, 1934, in Alma, KS to John & Bertha (Streiner) Schraub. She graduated from Cross Plains High School in the Class of  ’52.  She was married to Junior “Red” Landwehr on May 28, 1952, who passed on February 28, 2010.  Survivors include their four children; Diana (Landwehr) Johnson and her husband, Gary of Elrod and their children, Micah Johnson and his girlfriend, Anna Brunner, of Bowie, MD and Jenna Johnson of Austin, TX; Gary and Dedra Landwehr of Versailles and their children, Andy & Martha Landwehr of San Antonio, TX; Eric & Ashley Landwehr and their children, Wade & Bristol of Benham; Tyler and Brechelle Landwehr and their daughter, Eden, of N. Vernon; Greg  & Kim Landwehr of Versailles and his children, Dawn (Landwehr) & Kenny Jordan and their children Rory & Reese Heffelmire, Taylor, Ella, & Avery Jordan; Amber (Landwehr) and Zack Seppala and their daughters, Mara and Ada of Fairfield, OH; and Gil Landwehr of Versailles and his children, Heath & Katie of Lawrenceburg; and Vera Schraub of Versailles, her only surviving sister. Dorene was preceded in death by her brothers, Leland & Elmer Schraub, & little sister, Lucy. Dorene was a member of St. Paul Lutheran Church, Olean, being baptized, confirmed, & married.  They raised their children with the church family of St. Paul.  For the last 11 years, she had been attending St. Peter Lutheran Church in Dillsboro. She retired from being a P.A. at Muscatatuck after 17 years.  It’s hard to sum up her precious life.  She enjoyed hiking with the Friends of the Versailles State Park.  She loved working with Red, doing the daily chores on the family farm and spending time with her family. She was not only loved by her children, grandchildren, & great-grandchildren, but by many friends.  Funeral services will be held on Wed., August 17, at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Keith Allhands of St. Peter Lutheran Church officiating. Visitation will be from 10 AM-12:00 Noon with service following.  Final resting place will be by Red’s side at the Cliff Hill Cemetery in Versailles. Memorials may be given to St. Peter Lutheran Church, Dillsboro or Cliff Hill Cemetery, Versailles.

Lee A. Mathews, Jr., 68, of Cross Plains passed away at 3:40pm, Saturday, July 30, 2022 at his home. He was born in Batesville on January 29, 1954, the son of Lee Sr. and Rovena Flint Mathews. He was married to Edwena “Wendy” Pyles and she preceded him in death on March 12, 2020. He married Rosalie Henderson Hooton on September 5, 2021 and she survives. Other survivors include one son Bryan (Cassandra) Mathews of Hebron, Kentucky; two daughters Cara (Bill) O’Connell of Norfolk, Virginia and Lisa (Brian) Zistler of Lawrenceburg; 4 grandchildren; three step-children Dyveke (Mike) Cox of Waverly, Charity (Bill) McGammon of Bloomington, and Damon Hooton of Versailles, along with 4 step-grandchildren.  He was also preceded in death by his parents and his brother Dean. Mr. Mathews was a 1972 graduate of South Ripley High School and a 1981 graduate of the Indiana Law Enforcement Academy. Lee’s working career spanned over 40 years in Ripley County law enforcement. He was a member of the Ripley County Sheriff’s Department for 33 years and served as Versailles Town Marshal for 9 years. He also worked the security detail at the Ripley County Courthouse.  Lee enjoyed bowling, wood working, golf, traveling, and playing cards. Lee was a member of the Versailles Baptist Church, the Versailles Lions Club, and Versailles Masonic Lodge. Funeral services will be held at 10am, Thursday, August 4 at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Randy Thieman officiating. Burial will be in the Methodist Cemetery at Cross Plains. Visitation will be on Wednesday from 5pm to 8pm. Memorials may be given to the Shop With a Cop program in care of the funeral home.

Robert ‘Glen’ Bustle, 88, passed away July 23, 2022 at Ripley Crossing in Milan, Indiana.  He was born July 29, 1933 to the late John and Roxie (Nicely) Bustle in Livingston, Kentucky. Glen married Marjory Carol Bustle Sept 12, 1952.  They have been long time residents of Versailles, IN and are active members of the Versailles Church of Christ.

Glen was a retired, self-employed logger and had a love of the outdoors. He was an avid hunter, fisherman and gardener. Glen had an engineering mind and was an excellent craftsman. 

He was a private person who found peace in nature and was often found on the front porch swing, whistling a tune, or strumming his fingers against his leg while gazing at the valley he loved. He had faith in his fellow man and believed in the value of a person’s word and the binding strength of a simple handshake.

Glen loved to laugh, was full of mischief and was fond of a good practical joke. He loved his family to pieces and enjoyed time sitting around a campfire, having fish fries by the creek and joining together for holiday gatherings.  He had a competitive spirit, whether it be who caught the most fish, won the most games of corn hole or won the most hands of Rook. 

Many of his family were blessed to have been taught to shoot a gun, cast a fishing line, or paddle a canoe.  His grandchildren will hold dear the memories of being pushed on the trusty porch swing and of being bounced on his knee as he hummed a tune in a way that only he could.

Glen is survived by his wife Margie and their three children: Randy Bustle (Martha), Darrell Bustle (Dawn) & Lisa Ritchie (David).  They have six grandchildren; Jennifer Engle (Steve), Amanda Brooks, Lorina Schneider (Christopher), Michele Logan, Leann Redwine (Nathaniel), Michaela Bustle (Ethan); 16 great grandchildren & 7 great great grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, Glen was proceeded in death by his Stepmother, Eliza (Renner) Bustle; Sisters, Flonie Williamson, Mae Mcclure, Virgie Mink & Lillian Anderson; Brothers, Willie Denver, Charles, James and Jesse Bustle; Great Grandsons, Cameron & Keaton Schneider.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, July 29, 2022 at 12pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Earl Thomas officiating. Burial will be in the Cliff Hill Cemetery in Versailles. Visitation will be from 10:00 am until time of service.

Memorial donations may be made in honor of Glen to the Cliff Hill Cemetery or donors’ choice in care of the funeral home.

Amelia Ann Wolter (Simon), 80, of Osgood peacefully passed away Sunday morning July 17 at home. She was born July 9, 1942 in the home of her parents Arthur Sr. and Eva Simon (Tunny).  On June 13, 1964 she married Louis R. Wolter, the love of her life with whom she celebrated 58 years together last month.

Amelia was a 1960 graduate of Osgood High School. She was a loving wife and devoted mother who enjoyed working around the home: took pride growing and tending to her flowers, gardening and canning; thrived on completing projects around the house through her natural talents for carpentry, fixing things, and creatively coming up with solutions to unique situations. She made her house a home with loving touches that were family inspired.  She enjoyed listening to music, using her computer and the iPad.   Many would say she was a little spitfire at times with her adventurous and spunky spirit. We learned never to underestimate her capabilities. She was a lifelong parishioner of St Maurice Catholic Church of Napoleon.  She especially enjoyed the ministries of being a catechist and a Martha for the church.

Besides being a wonderful wife to Louis, her pride and joy in life was her family.  She was mother to five children: Paula(Mike) Bobek of Plain WI, John(Amy) Wolter of Charlotte NC, Matthew Wolter of Phoenix AZ, Adam(Devonna)Wolter of Batesville IN, and Thomas(Rebecca) Wolter of Austin TX.  Her 12 grandchildren include:  Andrew(Shelby) Bobek and Steven(Maureen) Bobek; Christopher, Nicole, and Evan Wolter; Justin(Jennifer) Wolter and Branden Wolter; Seth and Layne Phillips; Crystal Leahy, Megan and Blake Wolter. Her five great grandchildren include Kyla and Cora(Justin);  Ariana, Waylon and Kyla(Crystal).  Surviving siblings include sisters, Mary Gilland, Linda(Tim) Wissel, and Rita (Jim Bedel); brother, Dale(Bonnie) Simon; and sister-in-laws, Patricia Simon, Dolores Simon, Rosie Wolter, and Marlene Wolter. She was preceded in death by her parents, infant sister, brothers, Arthur Jr. Simon, Charley(Lucille) Simon, Donald(Ola) Simon, and Eugene Simon along with numerous in-laws.

Visitation will be at Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles, IN Friday July 22 at 4:00-7:00 p.m. with rosary prayer at 4p.m. Mass and Catholic burial will take place July 23 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Maurice Catholic Church in Napoleon, IN.  Memorials can be offered to St. Maurice Catholic Church in care of the cemetery and the Franciscans Sisters of Oldenburg.

Branch Howard, 90, of Versailles passed away at 4:45pm, Sunday, July 17, 2022 at his home. He was born at Jackson in Breathitt County, Kentucky on July 1, 1932 the son of Branch and Eva Campbell Howard. He was married to Gladys Couch on August 10, 1979 and she survives. Other survivors include five sons Gale (Sandy) Howard of Versailles, Johnny Howard and Mike Burnett both of Holton, Sean (Christina) Burnett of Sicily, Italy, and Mike (Jane) Webb of Seymour; daughter-in-law Victoria Howard of West Alexandria, Ohio; 13 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his son Branch, his parents, his brother Hayes Howard, and his sisters Dosha and Belle. Mr. Howard was a 1951 graduate of Holton High School where he excelled in basketball and track. He was an area supervisor for Hoosier Energy for over 30 years and was a lineman and a member of the IBEW for over 60 years. His early work days took him to St. Louis where he helped in working on the St. Louis Arch.  Branch was a USAF Veteran and was a member of the Versailles American Legion. He was also a founder and former member of the East Enterprise Beagle Club in Switzerland County. Funeral services will be held on Thursday, July 21 at 3pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles. Burial will be in the Tanglewood Cemetery with military rites by the Versailles American Legion. Visitation will also be on Thursday beginning at 1pm. Memorials may be given to the Tanglewood Cemetery in care of the funeral home.

Nettie “Pat” Daily, 90, of Versailles passed away at 11:10pm, Sunday, June 19, 2022 at her home. She was born at Cove Hill in Carroll County, Kentucky on May 10, 1932 the daughter of Joseph and Annetta Smith DeVore. She was married to George “Bo” Daily on March 16, 1952, and he preceded her in death on February 12, 2010. Survivors include two sons George D. (Brenda) Daily of Hilliard, Ohio and Daniel Daily of Moores Hill; two daughters Deborah (Steve) Haughee of Osceola and Gretchen (Jeff) Fuller of Milan; 14 grandchildren Sarah (Matt) Hollar, Stephen “Toby” (Frances) Haughee, Christine Daily, Kathryn (Andrew) DeMusey, Caleb Haughee, George Andrew Daily, Jeffrey (Audrey) Fuller, Garrett Fuller, Elizabeth Fuller, Emily Fuller, Ethan Daily Tristan Daily, Alexis Daily, and Isabelle Daily; 9 great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren. She was also preceded in death by her parents, her sisters Lucille Geyman, Willie Mae Wright, Lena McDole, and Ruby Hall, and her brother Joe DeVore. Pat moved with her family to Jefferson County in 1940 and she was a 1950 graduate of North Madison High School. Her working career spanned several years where she worked as a civil service employee at the Jefferson Proving Ground. She enjoyed spending time with her family and friends, cooking, antiquing, sewing, and tending to her flowers. She was also was a big fan of IU basketball and enjoyed following the Boston Celtics and the Golden State Warriors. Pat was a member of the Tanglewood Baptist Church and was a long time member of the St. Paul Lutheran Church at Olean. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, June 25 at 10:30am at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles. Burial will be in the St. Paul Lutheran Cemetery at Olean. Visitation will be on Friday from 4pm to 7pm. Memorials may be given to the Tanglewood Baptist Church or the St. Paul Cemetery in care of the funeral home.

Long time Versailles businessman George M. Halcomb, 91, passed away at 2:25pm, Wednesday, June 15, 2022, at Ripley Crossing in Milan. He was born at Linefork in Letcher County, Kentucky on January 6, 1931, the son of James and Loretta Caudill Halcomb. He was married to Shirley Gabbard on February 17, 1956, and she preceded him in death on January 13, 2012. On October 23, 2013, he married Edna Stinson Allen in Hamilton, Ohio and she survives. Other survivors include three sons Randy (Carol) Holcomb, Richard (Karen) Halcomb and Joe (Susie) Halcomb all of Versailles; one daughter Karen (Jeff) Hafft of Versailles; three step-sons Bob (Sharon) Allen of Charlestown, Keith (Tammy) Allen of Madison, and Steve (Sharon) Allen of Georgetown; one step-daughter Kathy (Scott) Gratrix of Castle Rock, Colorado; 8 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, 10 step-grandchildren, and 12 step-great-grandchildren. He was also preceded in death by his parents, his brothers Douglas and Albert, and his sisters Louie May Hendricks and Orella Whicker. Mr. Halcomb was a 1949 graduate of Versailles High School. George’s business career started when he was only 15 when he operated a Whizzer Bike Shop out of his home. After graduation he served with the US Army in Germany during the Korean War. He worked along side his father in Halcomb & Sons Plastering and in 1958 opened Halcomb Building Supply in both Osgood and Versailles. The current Halcomb Home Center opened in 1973 and George stayed connected to the business as long as his health allowed. In the early 70’s he was a member and president of the South Ripley School Board. George was also a member of the Tanglewood Baptist Church, the Versailles American Legion, Versailles Masonic Lodge, and the Versailles Lions Club. Visitation will be held on Sunday, June 19 from 5pm to 8pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Masonic services at 4:30pm. Funeral services will be held at the convenience of the family with burial in the Tanglewood Cemetery. Military graveside rites will be conducted by the Versailles American Legion.  Memorials may be given to the cemetery in care of the funeral home.

William David “Billy” Meisberger, 52, of New Marion passed away suddenly on Wednesday, June 1, 2022 at his home. He was born in Batesville on December 1, 1969, the son of David and Sherron Castner Meisberger. Survivors include his parents David and Sherron Meisberger of New Marion; two sisters Tracy Meisberger and Suzanne (Brent) Jansen both of Versailles; three nieces Ashley Parker, Haley Jansen, and Megan Hale; one nephew Alex Buchanan; great-nephews Brayden and Thomas, and great-niece Brooklyn, along with several uncles, aunts, and cousins. Mr. Meisberger was a 1988 graduate of South Ripley High School. Billy was a farmer and did carpenter work on the side. He enjoyed fishing, golf, watching football, playing cards, and being a jokester. He especially enjoyed being uncle to his nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, June 4 at 12pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Billy’s friend Ron Messer officiating. Burial will be in the New Marion Cemetery. Visitation will also be on Saturday beginning at 10am. Memorials may be given to the New Marion Cemetery in care of the funeral home.

Catherine Agnes “Katie” Smith, 97, of Versailles passed away on Wednesday, May 25, 2022 at St. Andrews Health Campus in Batesville. She was born in Aurora on April 30, 1925, the daughter of Ernest and Elsie Kenelein Borgman. Catherine was a 1943 graduate of Aurora High School. She was married to Alan F. “Smitty” Smith on July 17, 1945 and he preceded her in death on January 22, 2003. Surviving Catherine are her three children, Alan F. (Carolyn) Smith of Bloomington, Theresa (Byron) Smith of Chillicothe, Ohio, and Nancy (Jim) Lemon of Versailles; grandchildren Cassandra (Christopher) Meyer, Grant (Allison) Smith, Carrie (Ross) Cocklin, Allison Smith, and Lauren (Matthew) Daylami; 11 great-grandchildren; one brother John (Marianna) Borgman. She was also preceded in death by her parents, her grandson Derrick Smith, and her sister Donna Teaney. Catherine lived on the Courthouse Square in Versailles for 70 years and was a member of the St. John Catholic Church in Osgood. She very much enjoyed playing cards with friends, tending her beautiful backyard garden, telling stories, and filling up her house with friends and relatives during Pumpkin Show, where her kitchen overflowed with food and fun times. Services will be held at the convenience of the family with burial in the Oakdale Cemetery in Dillsboro. Memorials may be given to St. Judes Children’s Research Hospital or the Ripley County Humane Society in care of the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home.

Margaret A. (Sizemore) English passed from this life May 18, 2022, at her home in Holton surrounded by her family. She was born September 18, 1934, in Hamilton County, OH, the daughter of Hansford and Beatrice Grills Sizemore.

  She married the love of her life, Clarence W. English, on September 3, 1954, and they were married until his passing in August of 2013.

  Mrs. English loved the Lord and placed Him first in her life. She was a loving person who had a big heart – always giving. She taught Sunday School for over 50 years and was a homemaker helping to raise many children. She loved to cook, garden and preserve food for her family. Before she was married she was a nanny to a Jewish family in Cincinnati and also worked at Kroger.

  She is survived by her daughters, Karen Reynolds and Wanda (Gerry) Burnett both of Holton. Grandchildren: Rachel (Eric) Grossman of Holton, Melanie Jo Reynolds of Holton and Gara (Shaun) Kreider of Cape Coral, FL; and Derrick Reynolds of Greensburg.

  Great grandchildren include Jacob and fiancé Katherine Dunbar, Grace and Margaret Grossman of Holton; Keegan and Declan Kreider of Cape Coral, FL; Alex Reynolds of Holton, and Ella Grace Reynolds of Greensburg.

  She is survived by one sister, Ruth Taylor of Rushville and numerous nieces and nephews and cousins.

  Besides her husband and parents, she was preceded in death by five brothers: Charles, Leroy, Kenneth, Marvin and Carl Sizemore, two infant sisters, and her son-in-law David Reynolds.

  Funeral services will be held Monday, May 23 at 10am at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Margaret’s daughter Rev. Karen Reynolds officiating. Burial will be in the Hopewell Cemetery. Visitation will be on Sunday from 4pm to 6pm. Memorials may be given to the Hopewell Cemetery or the Dabney Baptist Church building fund in care of the funeral home.

Ruth A. Pickett, 94, of Correct, passed from this earthly life at 7:00 p.m., Friday, May 6, 2022.  She was under Hospice care at Nortons Brownsboro Hospital in Louisville, Kentucky.  She was born In Ripley County on January 12, 1928, the daughter of Clarence and Della Lemen Graves.  She was married to Victor Pickett on June 23, 1945, and was able celebrate sixty years of marriage before his passing in August 2005. She was the mother of three children, Richard (Tammy) Pickett, Susan (Joe) Craig, and David (Ellen) Pickett, seven grandchildren Jeff and Bill Pickett, Jennifer Smith,  Patrick and Benjamin Craig,  Sam and Joe Pickett, and seven great grandchildren. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents, her siblings Marge (Sandifer), Marvin, Nelson, Art, and Virgil Graves, and her daughter in law, Tammy. Ruth spent her childhood in the small village of New Marion and recalled her life there with great fondness. As a young wife and mother, she moved to the family farm, spending  the majority of her life there. She was known for her prodigious gardening skills.  She was passionate about providing healthy food to her family, and coveted junk food was rare to her children. In addition to raising her children with a fierce devotion, she  held a strong desire to learn and expand her knowledge of the world.  She was a lover of the written word, loving to read all manner of materials, including the family set of encyclopedias.  She lived with a great curiosity of history, and spent many hours meticulously researching her family’s lineage.  She was proud to discover that several of her ancestors came to this country on the Mayflower.  She enjoyed volunteering at the Ripley County Historical Society archives and was a member of the Ross Run Daughters of the American Revolution.  She was a lifetime member of the Correct Homemakers, and loved socializing with her friends and meeting new people.  Most of all, she loved her family, her husband, children, and grandchildren were her heart.  Funeral services will be held Saturday, May 14^th at 12:00 noon at New Marion Baptist Church. Visitation will be held from 10:00 until time of services at the church. Memorials may be made to the New Marion Baptist Church or the Ripley County Historical Society in care of Stratton-Karseter funeral home.

Carole Ann Michel, 74, of Osgood passed away at 5:20pm, Wednesday, May 4, 2022 at her home. She was born in Batesville on April 13, 1948, the daughter of Melvin and Emma Lue Humphrey Michel. Survivors include her sister Jennifer Schwipps of Milan; her nephew Benjamin (Angela) Schwipps and her niece Amanda (Terry) Allison; great- nephews Ryan and Evan Schwipps, and great-nieces Sadie and Sydney Allison; also her best friends Nancy Smith, Pam Grewe, and Janet Millay.  She was preceded in death by her parents. She was a 1966 graduate of Jac-Cen-Del High School and received her BA degree in 1970, and her MA degree in 1973, both from the University of Evansville. Carole taught physical education for 35 years at Glenwood Middle School in Evansville. She also coached women’s basketball at Harrison High School, Glenwood Elementary and Middle School, and coached women’s track at Glenwood. She loved coaching basketball and enjoyed many years of success with her talented, competitive teams. After returning to Osgood for her retirement years, Carole enjoyed her swimming pool and decorating her pool area with numerous flowers and lighting in preparation for themed pool parties. Her Boston Terriers were the joy of her life. Carole’s wishes were to be cremated and her life will be celebrated with a private pool party with family and friends. Burial will follow at a later date at St. John Catholic Cemetery in Osgood. Memorials in Carole’s name may be given to the Ripley County Humane Society or the Osgood United Methodist Church in care of the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles.

Eugene H. Simon, 78, of Osgood passed away early Sunday morning, May 1, 2022 at IU Methodist Hospital in Indianapolis.  He was born in Batesville on April 25, 1944, the son of Arthur Sr. and Eva (Tunny) Simon.  He was married to Patricia Schwering on August 20, 1966. 

Gene was a 1963 graduate of Jac-Cen-Del High School.  He was a hard and dedicated worker, working 3 jobs for nearly 30 years.  After high school he worked for a short period of time for Johnson Wholesale and Cummins.  He farmed for many years and was always a farmer at heart.  For nearly 50 years he delivered fuel for McCoy Texaco, Farm Bureau, Rayner Mobil, and Straber Marathon while also driving a school bus for the Jac-Cen-Del School Corporation.  He received a life member badge for serving with the Napoleon Volunteer Fire Department.

Gene loved to sing and dance, especially to polka music.  On Saturday nights, you could find him watching the Grand Ole Opry, Big Joe Polka, and the Lawrence Welk Show while enjoying homemade grape juice and popcorn at 2:52.  Gene was a great storyteller and was known to embellish his stories just a bit at times.  He never knew a stranger and could strike up a conversation with anyone, anywhere, anytime.  He was a faith-filled man and a lifetime member of St. Maurice Catholic Church in Napoleon. 

Of all his accomplishments, family brought him the greatest joy.  He was a loving husband and adored his wife, Patty.  He was a dedicated father to his children, Scott (Jason Barnhorst) of Greensburg, Mary (Gary) McCoy of Holton, Eva (Brian) Volz of Osgood, and Nick (Jenny) of Osgood.  His eyes twinkled with pride for his 11 grandchildren- Brianna (Blake Little), Tanner (Stephanie), Mariah, Lilly, Gracie, Shaylee, Caleb, Luke, Lane, Sophia, and Makenna as well as 3 great grandchildren- Charlie Ann, Tucker, and Mavis.  One brother, Dale (Bonnie); 4 sisters- Mary Gilland, Amelia (Lou) Wolter, Linda (Tim) Wissel, and Rita (Jim) Bedel; sisters-in-law Dolores Simon, Evelyn Johannigman, Janet Schwering, and Phyllis Schwering also survive.  He was preceded in death by his parents, an infant sister, brothers, Arthur Jr., Charley (Lucille), and Donald (Ola) and numerous in-laws.

Visitation will be at Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles, IN on Sunday, May 8 from 4pm-7pm.  A rosary will be prayed at 3:30pm.  Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Monday, May 9 at 10am at St. Maurice Catholic Church in Napoleon, IN.  Memorials may be given to the Napoleon Fire Department or St. Maurice Catholic Church.

 John H. Mann, 81, of Versailles passed away at 5am, Saturday, April 30, 2022 at Our Hospice of South Central Indiana in Columbus. He was born in Bedford on October 31, 1940 the son of Howard and Geneva White Mann. He was married to Connie Luttrell on April 30, 1965 and his wife of 57 years survives. Other survivors include two daughters Jennifer (Roy) Tabor of Indianapolis and Teresa (David) Donehue of Pittsburgh; five grandchildren Elizabeth and Alex Tabor, and Rachel, Hannah, and Ryan Donehue; one brother Charles (Jerrie) Mann of Brownsburg. He was preceded in death by his parents. Mr. Mann grew up in Mitchell and was a 1958 graduate of Mitchell High School and attended Franklin College. On April 28, 1959 John entered the US Marine Corps, rose to the rank of Corporal, and was discharged on April 12, 1963. For service to his country he was awarded the Good Conduct Medal. In civilian life John’s working career spanned over 34 years with the Indiana State Police, retiring in 2000. He was appointed to District 42 with the ISP in Versailles in September of 1965. He was promoted to Detective Sergeant, worked as a hostage negotiator, on the child protective team, and served as a counselor for the ISP Recruit School. He was named Indiana Law Enforcement Officer of the Year in 1994. John was a member of the Versailles Baptist Church, Wm. Rayner FOP, and the Indiana State Police Pioneers. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, May 7 at 11am at the Versailles Baptist Church with Rev. Mike Cantrell officiating. Burial will be in the Cliff Hill Cemetery in Versailles with military graveside rites by the Versailles American Legion. Visitation will be on Friday from 4pm to 7pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles and from 10am until time of services Saturday at the church. Memorials may be given to Our Hospice or the Versailles Baptist Church in care of the funeral home.  

Theresa Ann Holman, 65, of Versailles passed away at 6:20pm, Sunday, May 1, 2022, at the St. Elizabeth Hospital in Edgewood, Kentucky after a long and difficult battle with pancreatic cancer. She was born in Batesville on July 5, 1956, the daughter of Lloyd and Dana Roark Craig. She was married to Leon Holman on September 21, 1985 and he preceded her in death on December 12, 2010. She was also preceded in death by her parents and her nephew Ryan Craig. Survivors include one daughter Rebecca (Kevin) Lee of Versailles; grandsons Austin and Travis Lee; two brothers Ray Craig of Versailles and Bob Craig of Madison; one sister Paula Holman of Versailles; step-grandchildren Carol McCain, Jamie, Billy (Alisha), Dewey (Amy), and Jerrod Holman, and Kayla (Dustin) Hogston, along with many great-grandchildren, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins. Mrs. Holman attended school at Holton and was a 1974 graduate of South Ripley High School. She enjoyed going to church, reading her Bible, her jewelry, crocheting, and visiting with her friends. She also enjoyed singing and was a former member of the Country Time and Rainbow Drifters bands where she also played baas. Theresa attended the Hope Baptist Church. Funeral services will be on Thursday, May 5 at 12pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Bro. Tom Holt and Bro. Ronnie Miller officiating. Burial will be in the Little Memory Cemetery near Sunman. Visitation will also be on Thursday beginning at 10am. Memorials may be given to the Little Memory Cemetery in care of the funeral home.

Paul C. Hardy, 85, of Osgood passed away at 8:50pm, Tuesday, April 19, 2022 at the Manderley Health Care Center in Osgood.

Born 9/30/1936 in Estill County, Kentucky, the first-born of tenant farmers.  Moved to current homestead at the age of 7.  Learned discipline and appreciation of life from early years of hard labor-gardening and farming.  Farm manager at age of 14, when his father started factory labor.  Cows were milked before and after school, yet found time for 4-H, earning Ripley County championships, played in Napoleon high school band and playing basketball.

Attended nearby Delaware Methodist Church where he accepted his Savior and was baptized.  At the age of 17 years old, he joined the Indiana National Guard, training every Monday night, one weekend every month and two weeks every summer.

In May 1953 Paul met and fell madly in love with Rosella Doyle and married her February 12, 1956 at the age of 19.  Paul produced, protected and began providing for 5 children by the age of 25.

Meanwhile, he'd graduated from Indiana's National Guard Military Academy 8/25/1957 and was commissioned 1st Lieutenant 11/03/1960.

He'd also become a certified lay speaker in the Methodist Church.

Paul began his career in insurance sales with Farm Bureau Insurance, also worked with Prudential and Metropolitan Insurance Companies, then joined partnership with John Austin in the 70's. Upon John's retirement, his son, Paul A Hardy, became his partner in what is now Hardy Insurance Group.

In the early years of Paul's career he lived in Vevay, where he was a volunteer fireman.  While there he began bowling.  With a change in insurance companies, he moved to Madison.

Weathering a few adversities, as farmers often do, he returned to Ripley County.

Before completing 10 years of service in the Indiana National Guard, Paul had served as the commander of the Greensburg National Guard Armory.

As his sons were growing up, he coached their Little League baseball teams, and through their teens, coached American Legion Babe Ruth teams.  Many weekends were filled with Boy Scout camping.  He encouraged and supported his daughters in their Girl Scouts, and 4-H activities, choral and band performances, cheerleading, volleyball, softball and other activities.

During the beginning years of his agency ownership, he became an avid bowler and contributed to a team effort at several national bowling tournaments.

For the benefit of the insurance industry Paul became involved in Professional Insurance Agents, better known as PIA.  He attended and taught several classes.  Offices he's held and awards earned among others are:  1980 Region 4 Agent of the Year, 1984 Southeast Region president, 1988 State treasurer, 1992 Indiana State President, 1993  State Person of the Year.  1994 nominee for National Agent of the Year, and 1997 PIA Service Board President.

Paul has served God, country, community and the business community through many organizations in the past and present, some of which are:  Osgood Lions Club secretary, treasurer and president.  Masonic Lodge - past master.  American Legion Post commander and finance officer.  Southeastern Indiana Emmaus board treasurer, Promise Keepers,  Chamber of Commerce, Jac-Cen-Del school board for 12 years.  He served St. Peter's (Fink's Church) as church council member, served on the building committee, cemetery committee, Men's Club, Lil' Cherubs preschool board president and monitored the adult Sunday School class.

Politically, he's locally served as Republican precinct committeeman for nearly 50 years.  Insurance outings and golf seem to go together like bread and butter.  Paul is a welcomed team player.

Wherever there's a worthy cause, he's the first to volunteer.

No task seems too difficult for him to tackle.  He's a respected and dearly loved father.  He's a passionate, faithful and patient husband of 65 years, that is adored.

Paul enjoyed serving the community through the insurance industry.  He commented that he never felt that he was going to "work".

One of his dreams and goals was building the home in which we've enjoyed living in the past 16 years.

Paul was recognized this past year for 50 years of serving the insurance industry and community.

For nearly 30 years, cancer threatened but never deterred his uncommon energy and zeal for life.

Paul was prepared to meet his maker but not ready, he was still planning and working toward future goals.

Now it's our turn to exercise our faith as he's journeying to meet his daughter Tina and other loved ones.  We'll miss him indescribably, but so thankful to have shared the life of this remarkable man.

Paula Jayne Grossman, 58, of Versailles passed away April 19, 2022 at her home. She was born in Madison on May 23, 1963, the daughter of Roy and Eleanor Geisler Whitaker. She was married to Mark Grossman on October 31, 1986 and he preceded her in death on June 29, 2017. Survivors include three sons Steven (Devin Branch) Grossman of Madison, Zane (Kasey) Grossman of Dayton, Ohio, and Zack (Nikki Nolan) Grossman of Versailles; grandchildren Dalton Ray Grossman Ahlanie Grossman, and Zander Grossman; great-grandson Scott Grossman;  two brothers Doug Whitaker of Lafayette and Mike Whitaker of Vancouver, Washington; one sister Cynthia (Bill) Schutte of Dillsboro. She was also preceded in death by her parents. Mrs. Grossman was a 1981 graduate of South Ripley High School. She was a former employee of Gecom Corporation in Greensburg, the Dollar General in Cross Plains, and had worked the inbound call center for Gardens Alive for 15 years. Paula was a member of the Benham United Methodist Church. Funeral services will be held on Friday, April 22 at 11am at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Rev. Richard Burcham officiating. Visitation will be on Thursday from 5pm to 7pm. Memorials may be given to the Benham Cemetery or the Ripley County Humane Society in care of the funeral home.

Sharon R. Scott, 67, of Rexville passed away at 4:15pm, Wednesday, April 13, 2022 at the Kings Daughters Hospital in Madison. She was born in Lawrenceburg on March 8, 1955 the daughter of Leslie and Patricia Riehle Grenat. She was married to Marvin Scott on July 21, 1977 and he preceded her in death on October 20, 2010. Survivors include one son Les (Heather) Scott of Rexville; one daughter Carry (Jeremy) Stegner of Cross Plains; grandchildren Benjamin Prather, Jillian Scott, and Abagaile Hewitt; her mother-in-law Helen Scott of Rexville; two brothers David (Chrissy) Grenat of Vevay and Clarence (Lesley) Grenat of Aurora; three sisters Kathy (Mario) Shepherd of Rising Sun, Diana (Eric) House of Aurora, and Carol (Bill) Dirr of East Enterprise. She was also preceded in death by her parents, her brothers Bobby, Danny, Donnie, and Michael, and her sister Debbie. Mrs. Scott attended Aurora High School and was a full time mom and housewife. She enjoyed playing bingo, doing word searches, playing cards, and was a big fan of TV’s Wheel of Fortune. Sharon attended the Shelby Christian Church. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, April 19 at 10:30am at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Randy Thieman officiating. Burial will be in the Shelby Cemetery. Visitation will be on Monday from 5pm to 7pm. Memorials  may be given to the Shelby Christian Church building fund in care of the funeral home. 

Bro. Dale Canull, 84, of Versailles passed away at 2pm, Saturday, April 2, 2022 at the Columbus Regional Hospital. He was born in Tuscola, Illinois on December 21, 1937, the son of Edward and Geneva Swinford Canull. He was married to Barbara Stewart on April 20, 1958 and she preceded him in death on August 26, 2021. Survivors include one son Michael Canull of Versailles; two daughters Cheryl (David) Jolly of Versailles and Sarah (Jeff) Shelton of Anderson; 9 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. He was also preceded in death by his parents and his brothers Charles and Larry. After high school Dale enlisted in the US Army on January 29, 1955 and was discharged on January 15, 1958, serving as a paratrooper in the 76^th Tank Battalion. For service to his country Dale received the Good Conduct Medal and Parachute Badge. He was graded as a marksman with the pistol and as a First Class Gunner with the 90MM. After the service Dale was a long time employee of the Ford Motor Company in Cincinnati. He was ordained into the Christian Ministry in 1973, receiving his Bachelors Degree in Sacred Literature from the Cincinnati Bible College in 1977, and later his Master of Theology degree from the Louisville Bible College. Dale’s ministry spanned 40 years where he served as minister for Christian churches in Clarksburg, New Whiteland, Greenfield, Richmond, and also in Norfolk, Virginia and Richmond, Kentucky. He was also the former minister of the Shelby Christian Church near Versailles and the Liberty Christian Church near Madison. In his off time, Dale was an avid golfer and enjoyed spending time with his family. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, April 6 at 11am at the Shelby Christian Church where Dale was a member. Tim Heim will officiate the service with burial in the church cemetery. Visitation will be on Tuesday from 5pm to 7pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles and from 10am until time of services Wednesday at the church. Memorials may be given to the Shelby Christian Church building fund in care of the funeral home.

 Freeda F. Hensley, 99, of Versailles passed away at 12:50am, Wednesday, March 30, 2022 at the Margaret Mary Community Hospital in Batesville. She was born near Osgood on November 7, 1922, the daughter of Earl and Daisy Jines Cain. She was married to Jay Hensley on September 3, 1940, and he preceded her in death on July 1, 2011. Survivors include two sons Carl (Harriet) Hensley of Greensburg and Larry (Vicky) Hensley of Versailles; one daughter Kay (Jim) Steele of Ossian; 15 grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren, and 10 great-great-grandchildren; one brother Walter Cain of Marion. She was also preceded in death by her parents, her son Gayle, and her sisters Nita Cain, Earlene Lamb, and Virginia Beller. Mrs. Hensley was the former co-owner and operator of the Twilight Haven Nursing Home in Versailles. After completing cosmetology courses at the Southeastern Career Center she owned and operated Freeda’s Beauty Shop as well as assisting her husband with his shoe repair business. She enjoyed quilting, was an avid reader, a published poet, and an accomplished artist. At age 65 Freeda took lessons and learned how to play the organ. Freeda was a member of the Shelby Christian Church. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, April 2 at 1pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Bro. David Jolly officiating. Burial will be in the Cliff Hill Cemetery. Visitation will also be on Saturday beginning at 11am. Memorials may be given to the Cliff Hill Cemetery in care of the funeral home.

Lawrence L. Grows, 81, of Napoleon passed away at 5:50am, Thursday, March 24, 2022 at his home. He was born in Napoleon on May 26, 1940, the son of Kenneth and Sarah Engel Grow. He was married to Patricia V. Owens on June 24, 1966 and his wife of 55 years survives. Other survivors include one son Randy (Kim) Grow of Napoleon; one daughter Tammy (Mark) Meister of Osgood; 4 grandchildren Ron (Kayla) Reynolds of Napoleon, Emily, Andrew, and Kendra Grow of Ft. Wayne; step-granddaughter Becca (Allie) Meister of Osgood; and 2 great-grandchildren RJ and Hannah Reynolds; step-great-granddaughter Kynlee Gunter. He was preceded in death by his parents. Mr. Grow’s working career spanned 65 years where spent 30 years with the Union Furniture Company in Batesville, 20 years with MC Wood in Napoleon, and the last 15 years with Gerbert’s Cleaning out of Washington. Lawrence retired last June, working past his 81^st birthday. He was well known in the Napoleon area as a handler and breeder of Dalmatian dogs, a craft he participated in for over 20 years. He also enjoyed woodworking. Lawrence was a member of the Napoleon United Methodist Church and the Helping Hands CB club

Patricia M. Thomas, 86, of Osgood passed away at 2:50pm, Tuesday, March 15, 2022 at the Manderley Health Care Center in Osgood. She was born near Osgood on July 9, 1935, the daughter of Roy and Grace Stork Landes. She was married to William Thomas on October 5, 1957 and he preceded her in death on June 3, 2002. Survivors include one daughter Karen (Tim) Wilburn of Osgood; daughter-in-law Jan Thomas of Osgood; three grandchildren Nicole Wilburn of Milan, and Paige Thomas and Riley Thomas both of Osgood; great-grandson Brady Alcorn. She was also preceded in death by her parents and her son Roy Thomas. Mrs. Thomas was a 1953 graduate of Osgood High School. The day after her high school graduation, Pat embarked upon a 40 year career with the Ripley County Bank in Osgood where she worked as a teller and also in the loan department. She enjoyed reading, and following IU basketball, the Reds, and the Bengals. Pat was a member of the Osgood United Methodist Church. Pat’s wishes were to be cremated and burial will follow at a later date in the Greendale Cemetery in Osgood. Memorials may be given to the Osgood Fire Department in care of the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles.

Craig W. Simon, 40, of Napoleon passed away at 8am, Tuesday, March 8, 2022 at his home. He was born in Greensburg on September 21, 1981, and was married to Emily Johannigman on October 19, 2013, and she survives. Other survivors include his sons Maximus and Duke, and his daughter Bailee, all at home; his father Tony (Sandi) Simon of Osgood; his mother Debbie (Ron Cox) Wall of Holton; in laws Ed and June Johannigman of Millhousen; his brother Dan (Alicia) Simon of Napoleon, and his maternal grandmother Helen Schwering of Greensburg. He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents Charley and Lucille Simon, his maternal grandfather Richard Schwering, and his aunt and uncle Mark and Julie Eckstein. Mr. Simon was a 2000 graduate of Jac-Cen-Del High School. Craig’s working career spanned 20 years where he was employed with Prairie Farms in Seymour, Asher Trucking in Westport, CHM Excavating in Milan, and Comer Excavating in Osgood. Craig enjoyed spending time with his friends, good 90s music, trail-riding, and following the Cincinnati Bengals. He was a 22 year member of the Napoleon Fire Department where he had served as chief, an EMT, and a first responder. Craig was also a member of the St. Maurice Catholic Church in Napoleon. Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, March 14 at 10am at the church with Father Bill Turner officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Visitation will be on Sunday from 2pm to 8pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Rosary services at 1:30pm. Memorials may be given to the Napoleon Fire Department, Hospice of South Central Indiana, or for Craig’s children in care of the funeral home.

Sandra Gay “Sandy” Davies, 75, of Milan passed away at 10:55am, Tuesday, March 7, 2022 at St. Elizabeth Healthcare in Edgewood, Kentucky. She was born near Somerset, Kentucky on November 3, 1946 the daughter of Carl and Bertha Burkett Johnson. She was married to Richard Davies on September 21, 1963 and he preceded her in death on January 26, 2020. Survivors include two sons Rick (Jackie) Davies of Danville, Virginia and Jeffrey (Patricia) Davies of Osgood; one daughter Teresa Davies Sparkman of Milan; 7 grandchildren Carol and An Poythress, Dylan and Kyle Sparkman, and Elizabeth, Rebecca, Hanna, and Andrew Davies; four sisters Joy (Jim) Brumback of Holton, JoElla (George) Watson of Sacramento, California, Jannie (Earl) Haase of Milan, and Karen (Raymond) Rhoades of Ft. Worth, Texas; sister-in-law Jean Ann (Victor) McClure of Milan. She was also preceded in death by her parents, her sisters Barbara Minchel, Ann Watson, Sharon Collins, and Jackie Lowery, and her brothers Lowell, Don, and Dewayne. Mrs. Davies owned and operated Sandy’s Hair Styling in Milan for 30 years and served as activities director for The Waters at Dillsboro Manor for 15 years. In her younger years Sandy had done modeling and was “discovered” while singing one night by a recording scout for RCA and offered a recording contract. She enjoyed sewing, quilting, tending to her flowers, and attending her grandkid’s sporting events. In her family Sandy was an inspiration to everyone and was the primary caregiver for her brothers and sisters. She was known as the family’s matriarch and was loved by all of her nieces and nephews. Sandy was a member of the Thread Head Quilting Group. Funeral services will be held on Friday, March 11 at 11am at the Bear Creek Baptist Church in Friendship with Rev. Sherman Hughes officiating. Burial will be in the Washington Cemetery in Elrod. 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 Bear Creek Baptist Church in care of the funeral home.

James R. Stephen, 83, of Versailles passed away at 11am, Thursday, March 3, 2022 at his home. He was born near Alpine in Fayette County, Indiana on July 13, 1938, the son of Paul and Lela Bowen Stephen. He was married to Virginia (Jean) Redmon on December 20, 1957 and she preceded him in death on December 20, 2020. Survivors include two sons JR (Debra) Stephen and Joe Stephen both of Versailles; daughter-in-law Tammy Stephen of Canaan; 13 grandchildren, 44 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandson; one sister Jean Keal of Richmond. He was also preceded in death by his parents, his son Lee, daughter-in-law Kelly, and his brothers Don and Dick Stephen. Mr. Stephen was a 1956 graduate of Mays High School in Rush County. He retired from Cummins Engine in Columbus in 1996 after 34 years. He enjoyed watching westerns and game shows, sitting on his front porch, waving at the passing cars, and eating peanut butter, ice cream, and peach pie. Most of all, Jim adored his family and supporting all their activities. Jim was a member of the Batesville Church on the Rock. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, March 8 at 10am at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Jim’s grandsons Micah and Curtis Stephen officiating. Burial will be in the South Park Cemetery in Greensburg. Visitation will be from 4pm to 7pm on Monday. Memorials may be given to the Church on the Rock Youth Fund in care of the funeral home.

Dorothy T. Craig passed away peacefully in the early morning hours of March 3, 2022, close to her family in Centerville, OH.

  She was born in Versailles, Indiana, on April 14, 1919, to Dova and Harry Thompson. She married Carlos (Barney) Craig on May 1, 1943 and he preceded her in death on January 17, 1978. Dorothy was also preceded in death by her parents and her sister, Jean Martin.

  She is survived by her two daughters and sons-in-law, JoJean Demaree and husband, Gene Demaree of Centerville, OH, and Jill Ann Bramman and husband, Lee Bramman of Atlanta, GA; four grandchildren: Dara Demaree and husband Kris Fraggos of Springboro, OH, Brandy Vianello and husband, Brian Vianello of Mariemont, OH, Erik Bramman of Chicago, IL, and Kyle Bramman and wife, Kristin of Dallas, TX; three great grandchildren: Talon Vianello, Demaree Vianello, and Hudson Vianello of Mariemont, OH.

  Dorothy graduated from Versailles High School in 1937 and attended Bethel Women’s College in Hopkinsville, KY, for one year. She then transferred to Tennessee Tech.  After studying Journalism for two years, she returned to Versailles to work for her father, Harry W. Thompson at the Versailles Republican and Osgood Journal (Ripley Publishing Co.) where she worked for 78 years, retiring at the age of 94 in 2013.

  Dorothy was a life long member of Tri Kappa (Versailles-Osgood Chapter), Tyson United Methodist Church, Versailles, and Girl Scouts, especially handling cookie sales for years.

  Dorothy loved to travel and throughout the years traveled many countries. She also enjoyed playing card games and dancing. After retiring and moving to Dayton, OH, where she lived independently in a retirement community near her daughter Jo Jean and son-in-law Gene.

Cindy Vanosdol, 68 of Holton passed away at 1am, Wednesday, February 23, 2022 at the IU Medical Center in Indianapolis. She was born in Seymour on November 13, 1953 the daughter of Duard and Gertrude Roberts Litton. She was married to Wayne Vanosdol on June 12, 1986 and he survives. Other survivors include one son Billy (Gina) Clements of Lexington, Kentucky; three daughters Amy Davis of Dabney, Linda Vanosdol of Hayden, and Niki Davis of Bloomington; 11 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren; 7 sisters Pat (Kelly) Clark of Chester, Ohio, Roberta (Virgil) Meeker of North Vernon, Nita Hoyt of Columbus, Martha Osborne of Stockdale, Texas, Alice (Danny) Beach of Holton, Bessie Mullins and Scott Jones of Bloomington, Sue (Harvey) McDougall of Martinsville, and one brother Gayle (Mary) Litton of Martinsville. She was preceded in death by her parents, her daughter Kathleen Barnett, granddaughter Carlin Davis, six sisters Betty Wright, Dorothy Litton, Drucilla Gerries, Ilona Hendricks, Karen Barrett, and Ruth Large, and three brothers Durad Litton, Jack Mote, and Charles (Butch) Allee.  Mrs. Vanosdol was a former employee of the Muscatatuck State Developmental Center and also the Madison State Hospital where she worked for 29 years as a DSI. She enjoyed knitting, crocheting, and quilting. Her grandkids were the light of her life and she never missed attending their school functions. Cindy was a member of the Holton Christian Church. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, February 26 at 12pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Bro. Bob McCreary officiating. Burial will be in the Hopewell Cemetery. Visitation will also be on Saturday beginning at 10am. Memorials may be given to the Holton Christian Church in care of the funeral home.

 Eleanor (Ellie) Irvin, 87, of Holton passed away at 10:21pm, Friday, February 18, 2022 at the St. Andrews Health Campus in Batesville. She was born Speedway, Indiana on Deptember 19, 1934 the daughter of Walter and Mary Funkhouser Knittel. She was married to dale Irvin on June 21, 1969 and he preceded her in death on August 13, 2020. Mrs. Irvin had retired from Reliance Medical Products (F&F Koenigkramer Co.) and was a former employee of the Sam’s Technical Institute. Ellie attended the New Marion Baptist Church and played the piano for over 20 years. She also was a member of the Versailles American Legion Auxillary, sang with the Golden Gate Community Choir and enjoyed playing the piano for Buckeye Village and Manderley. Ellie spent the last 10 months at St. Andrews with wonderful care from the staff and her many visiting friends. Memorial services will be held on Sunday, March 6^th, 2022 at 2pm at the New Marion Baptist Church with Rev. Ed Roberts officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery.  Memorials may be given to the church in care of the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles.

Tom Heidt, 73, of Versailles passed away at 1pm, Friday, February 4, 2022 at the Kings Daughters Hospital in Madison. He was born in Batesville on July 28, 1948 the son of Malcolm “Cap” and Louise Craig Heidt. He was married to Cindy Moorman on July 4, 1970 and his wife of 51 years survives. Other survivors include two sons Jon Heidt of Versailles and Mark (Carrie Bruce) Heidt of Friendship; granddaughters Graci, Alexa, and Emma; two sisters Jan Bedel of Versailles and Connie (Tom) Miller of Batesville. He was preceded in death by his parents. Tom was a 1966 graduate of Batesville High School and attended Indiana State University where he studied drafting. Tom served in Germany in communications with the US Army from 1970 and 1973. In civilian life he and Cindy were former co-owners of the Versailles Super-Valu. Tom was also a contractor and owned and operated Heidt Construction for many years. Tom enjoyed his family along with playing cards and golfing. Funeral services will be held on Thursday, February 10 at 10am at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Randy Thieman officiating. Burial will be in the Cliff Hill Cemetery in Versailles with military graveside rites by the Versailles American Legion. Visitation will be on Wednesday from 4pm to 7pm. Memorials may be given to South Ripley girls athletics in care of the funeral home.

Genevieve Pickett, 100, of Lawrenceburg passed away at 10am, Monday, January 31, 2022 at Shady Nook Health Care Center in Lawrenceburg. She was born near New Marion on October 21, 1921 the daughter of Charles and Clara Matz Meierle. She was married to Lowell Pickett on December 11, 1943 and he preceded her in death on December 29, 1996. Survivors include one son Terry Pickett of Ross, California; grandsons Jonathan Pickett of Sassalito, California, and Barton (Alexandra) Pickett of Greenbray, California; one brother Garry (Janet) Meierle of Versailles. She was preceded in death by her parents, her brothers Harold, Irvin, Dalbert, Marcee, and Frances Meierle, and her sisters Ruthe Burske, Mary Gigerich, Margaret Terrican, and Evelyn Meierle. Mrs. Pickett was a 1939 graduate of New Marion High School and was a former resident of North Hills, California. Her working career spanned many years where she was employed with the Lakeworth Trotter Company and she retired from Teledyne Laars where she worked as an administrative assistant to the company president. Genevieve was a member of the St. Magdalene Catholic Church in New Marion. Cremation will be followed by a memorial service at a later date. The Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles is in charge of arrangements.

Juliana E. Collier, 92, of Versailles passed away at 11:20am, Saturday, January 29, 2022 at the St. Andrews Health Campus in Batesville. She was born in Cincinnati on January 17, 1930, the daughter of Clarence and Louella Fuchs Weiler. She was married to Robert Collier on September 4, 1954 and he preceded her in death on July 28, 2021. Survivors include one daughter Robin (Tim) Dugan of Florence, Kentucky; one son Mark (Dot) Collier of Plainfield; four grandchildren Ashley (Richard) McFarland of Florence, Kentucky, Erin (Brock) Goggins of Jasper, Corey Dugan of Brooklyn, New York, and Kellie (Sarah) Dalton of Pittsburgh; 5 great-grandchildren. She was also preceded in death by her parents, her brother Paul Weiler, and her sister Charlene Back. Mrs. Collier was a 1948 graduate of Guilford High School. Prior to her marriage in 1954 she worked in the accounting department at Seagrams, but her primary occupation was that of homemaker and Mom. She enjoyed tending to her flowers and was a prolific quilter, making quilts for countless family members. She and Bob also enjoyed collecting antiques. Juliana was a member of the St. John Catholic Church in Osgood. Funeral services will be held at the convenience of the family with burial in the Cliff Hill Cemetery in Versailles. Memorials may be given to the Collier Family Community Granting Fund of the Ripley County Community Foundation in care of the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles.

Donald H. Strimple, 81, of Versailles passed away at 3:30pm, Friday, January 28, 2022 at his home. He was born in Batesville on April 5, 1940, the son of Hoover and Naomi Courtney Strimple. Survivors include two brothers Wayne (Janet) Strimple of Aurora and Rex (Brenda) Strimple of Holton; two sisters Kay (Mike) Wells of South Bend and Mary Lou Mosier of Osgood; also his brother-in-law Wayne (Pat) Asche of Versailles, along with several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents. Mr. Strimple was a 1958 graduate of Osgood High School. Don was a veteran of the United States Air Force where he spent the majority of his working career. He retired from Hughes Aircraft after which he returned to Ripley County. He enjoyed following the Cincinnati Reds and the Indiana Hoosiers and in good weather enjoyed fishing. Don was a member of the Versailles American Legion. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, February 5 at 12pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Pastor David Forkert officiating. Burial will be in the Cliff Hill Cemetery in Versailles with military graveside rites by the Versailles American Legion. Visitation will also be on Saturday beginning at 10am. Memorials may be given to the Legion in care of the funeral home.  

James Darrell "Jim" Samples 83 of Versailles, IN, died due to complications with a breakthrough case of Covid on Monday, January 3, 2022 at King Daughters Hospital in Madison. Jim was born on February 5, 1938 in Clay County, Kentucky, the son of Wendell and Zedra (Webb) Samples. He married Joyce A. Sutherlin on May 21, 1966 and she survives

 Survivors include two daughters, Nicole (Chris) Wiedeman of San Luis Obispo, CA and Kerry (Mark) McConnell of Osgood; two grandsons, Christopher Adkinson and Shane McConnell of Osgood and one great-grandson, Oliver Adkinson; two brothers, Tullas (Judy) Samples of Missouri, Bert (Sonja) Samples of Rexville and one sister. 

 Jim was preceded in death by his parents and brothers, Glenn Samples, Samuel Samples and Frank Samples.

 The large Samples clan moved to the Ohio Valley when Jim was in grade school and eventually settled the family farm in Rexville. He was a member of the 1956 graduating class of New Marion. Jim joined the US Army in July of 1956 and as an enlisted he saw California and Germany and was called on for an office position when it was discovered that he was a good typist.

 Jim was a hard worker. He spent long hours farming and building roads all throughout the region as a concrete finisher and site superintendent. Even though long retired, Jim still was a caretaker at a local friend's farm at the Busching Bridge near Versailles State Park. His loved ones will always remember him saying he was "off to mow" or "I'm going over the hill" to check on things. At one point, Jim had several bison in the pastures and stables at the farm and tourists and locals alike would enjoy stopping to see them. In service to his community, Jim was elected to the South Ripley Jr./Sr. High School Board in the early 2000s and was an integral part in the gymnasium and building additions made to the school grounds. He was elected and served as the Johnson Township Trustee in the 1990s.

 In retirement he traveled with Joyce in a motorhome that took them from places like Yellowstone and the Florida Panhandle. The RV became a second home for them at the Sundown Resort just 7 miles from Cades Cove in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

 Jim was a quiet man, until you got to know him. Although he was never the heart of a gathering, he'd share his wry, witty jokes and observations with his family afterwards and always to great laughter.

 A Celebra

Lamar Smith, 82, of Benham passed away at 4:45am, Thursday, January 27, 2022 at Ripley Crossing in Milan. He was born on the farm where he spent his entire life on May 28, 1939, the son of Chauncey and Evelyn Ehlers Smith. He was married to Mary Buchanan on June 19, 2004 and she survives. Other survivors include his step-children Kenneth Lee (Sue) Buchanan of Benham, Beverly (Jerry) Ochs of Moores Hill, and Marty (Mike) Blann of Sullivan; 7 step-grandchildren; one brother Dennis (Barbara) Smith of Batesville; brother-in-law Kenny Mclean of Columbus, his niece Kimberly (Brian) Wedding of Lawrenceburg, and his nephews Deron (Malena) Smith of Batesville and Tim (Liz) McLean of Columbus. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister Jean McLean. Mr. Smith was a 1957 graduate of Versailles High School and served in the 2480^th US Air Force from 1963 to 1969. In civilian life Lamar was a 31 year employee of Cummins Engine in Columbus and also worked his farm. He had his pilots license and owned his own plane which he enjoyed taking for Sunday afternoon “drives”. Lamar was a lifelong member of the Benham United Methodist Church and was an honorary member of the Versailles Lions Club. Funeral services will be held at 11am on Tuesday, February 1 at the Benham United Methodist Church with Gary Brooks officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Visitation will also be at the church on Tuesday beginning at 10am. Memorials may be given to the church in care of the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles.

Carol Jean Benham, 75, of Sellersburg passed away at 6:35pm, Wednesday, January 26, 2022, at Baptist Health Floyd in New Albany. She was born in Seymour on November 28, 1946, the daughter of Robert and Mary Alice Updike Cannon. She was married to Charles Benham on November 29, 1969 and he preceded her in death. Survivors include one son Dusty Benham and his fiancé Kristine Carter of Sellersburg, and her grandson Ethan Benham. She was also preceded in death by her parents and her brother Michael Cannon. Mrs. Benham was a 1965 graduate of Versailles High School and attended the Cincinnati Bible College. She was a former employee of Hill-Rom in Batesville, Marble Hill at Madison, and retired from the corporate offices of Kentucky Fried Chicken in Louisville where she worked as an administrative assistant. Jeanie was a member of the Kent Christian Church and through 2019 served as a Rabbi with the Burning Bush Ministries. Funeral services will be held on Monday, January 31 at 11am at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with visitation beginning at 10am. Burial will be in the Benham Cemetery. Memorials may be given to the cemetery in care of the funeral home.

 Kevin Asche, 56, of Columbus passed away at 7:30pm, Monday, January 24, 2022 at the Columbus Regional Hospital. He was born in Greensburg on September 21, 1965 and was married to Michelle Dill on February 14, 2011 and she survives. Other survivors include his step-daughter Serena Hypes; step-granddaughter Shay; one brother Randall Asche of Versailles; one sister Laura Lane Jordan of Greensburg. He was preceded in death by his father Robert Asche, and his mother Thelma Catherine Davidson LaBonty. Mr. Asche graduated high school from the Indiana School for the Blind. He attended Ball State University for two years studying computer science and was named to the Dean’s List. Kevin was a wonderful singer and enjoyed telling jokes and being an “aggravation” to those around him. He overcame many obstacles in his life and was an inspiration to everyone who knew him. Kevin was a member of the Parkside Baptist Church in Columbus. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, January 29 at 11am at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Randy Thieman officiating. Burial will be in the Cliff Hill Cemetery in Versailles. Visitation will also be on Saturday beginning at 10am. Memorials may be given to the cemetery in care of the funeral home.

Linda L. Walston, 70, of Rexville passed away at 11:30pm, Sunday, January 23, 2022 at her home. She was born in Springboro, Ohio on April 5, 1951, the daughter of J. T. and Barbara Gross McGuire. She was married to John Walston on May 16, 1975 and he survives. Other survivors include two daughters Christina (Mark) Richardson of Osgood and Jennifer (Micah) McFarland of Rexville; two sisters Kim (Jim) White of Versailles and Marilyn McGuire of Rexville. She was preceded in death by her parents and her sister Alice McGuire. Mrs. Walston was a former employee of US Shoe in Osgood, Madison Electronics in Versailles, and was retired from NAC in North Vernon where she worked as a team leader. She was a “professional” Rook and bingo player and loved horses and trail rides. Linda was a member of the Rt. 46 Pentecostal Church at St. Leon. Funeral services will be held on Friday, January 28 at 12pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with visitation beginning at 10am. Burial will be in the Rodney Cemetery near Westport. Memorials may be given to the donor’s choice in care of the funeral home.

Patricia O. (Pat) Lemon left this life in Batesville, In. on January 23,2022, at the age of 91.  She was born in Indianapolis on June 29,1930, the first child of Dr. Noel and Frances (Thomas) Moran.  Pat’s early childhood was spent in Marion and Bloomington, In., moving to Versailles in 1948, meeting her soon to be husband, and graduating from Versailles High School, class of 1949. She was united in marriage to James W. Lemon on August 24,1949, making their home for many years in Friendship, Indiana, before moving to Batesville in 2008.

Pat will be missed by her sister, Mary Evelyn (Leonard) Johnston of Ft Wayne, daughter Evelyn (Charles) Israel of Oldenburg, sons James Wm. (Nan) Lemon of Versailles, and Tracy (Shirley) Lemon, also of Versailles, as well as 7 Grandchildren, 14 Great Grandchildren, and several loving nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her husband Jim on January 6, 2019, her parents, and stepmother, Mary Moran. 

During her working career, Pat was employed at the Indiana University bookstore, and was a Bank Teller, Proof Operator, and Bookkeeper.  She also enjoyed working for many years at the target scoring desk during the NMLRA National competitions in Friendship.  As a member of Bear Creek Baptist Church in Friendship, she was a Sunday School teacher and BYF leader, as well as pianist and choir director.  She was a member of several organizations, including Tri Kappa, Eastern Star, Friendship Fire Department Auxiliary, Home Ec. Club, and Cross Plains PTO.  In her younger years, she and Jim enjoyed going to local dances, bowling, and card club.  Later in life, Pat was an avid reader, gardener, master crossword solver, and pioneering Atari gamer.  She also enjoyed traveling and Sunday NFL football.

Services will be held at the convenience of the family.  It is asked that memorials be made to the Friendship Fire Department, or the Ripley County Humane Society, in care of Stratton & Karsteter Funeral Home.

Mary Ann Sebree, 80, of Rexville passed away on Tuesday, January 18, 2022 at her home. She was born near Lawrenceburg on November 13, 1941, the daughter of Jim and Alma Buchanan Richardson. She was married to Curtis Sebree on April 11, 1959, and he preceded her in death on October 11, 2019. Survivors include one daughter Brenda Hayes of Edmond, Oklahoma; 2 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren. She was also preceded in death by her parents and her brother Jimmy Richardson. Mrs. Sebree was a former resident of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma and she and Curtis returned to the area upon his retirement. Mary Ann was a homemaker and a member of the Shelby Christian Church. Funeral services will be held at 3pm, Monday, January 24 at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Joe Van Wye, minister officiating. Burial will be in the Shelby Cemetery. Visitation will also be on Monday beginning at 2pm. Memorials may be given to the Shelby Cemetery or the Ripley County Humane Society in care of the funeral home.

Joyce Holzhause Wilson, 95, of Napoleon passed away at 9:50a.m., Tuesday, January 18, 2022 at the Manderley Health Care Center in Osgood. She was born on the farm near Napoleon where she spent most of her life on September 25, 1926 the daughter of Clarence and Florence Siebert Holzhause. She was married to Leslie Wilson on March 18, 1949 and he preceded her in death on October 24, 2003. Survivors include her daughter-in-law Debbie Wilson of Osgood;  two grand sons Jeff (Kelly) Wilson of Fishers and Steven Koehne of Fountaintown; two granddaughters Sherry Stagge of Carmel and Amber Maguire of Osgood; 8 great-grandchildren. She was also preceded in death by her parents, her son David Wilson, her daughter Karen Koehne, and her sister Marjorie Matthews. Mrs. Wilson was a 1944 graduate of Napoleon High School. She spent her entire life in the Napoleon area except for two years during WWII where she worked for the IRS in Indianapolis. Leslie and Joyce farmed and opened Wilson’s Saw Shop at their home west of Napoleon in 1951, operating it until Leslie’s death in 2003. Joyce was a self-taught saw technician and was well known in the tri-state area for her expertise. She continued to sell Homelite saw parts online to customers around the country well past her 90^th birthday. She enjoyed bowling in Greensburg and Versailles and actively participated in the Greensburg Senior Citizens Center as long as her health would allow. She was also an avid card player. Joyce was a lifelong member of the St. John Lutheran Church in Napoleon. Funeral services will be held on Monday, January 24 at 11am at the St. John Lutheran Church in Napoleon with Pastor Martin Bornhoeft officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Visitation will be on Sunday from 4pm to 6pm 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 church or the Ripley County Humane Society in care of the funeral home.

Patricia A. Lohrum, 89, of Versailles passed away at 2:45pm, Tuesday, January 11, 2022 at the Manderley Health Care Center in Osgood. Pat’s father operated a filling station in Cincinnati across from Coney Island and Pat was born there on March 17, 1932, the daughter of Alvier and Edna Lamb Steuer. She was married to Albert Lohrum on November 14, 1952, and he preceded her in death on March 31, 2006. Survivors include two sons Leslie (Christine) Lohrum and Lynn Lohrum both of Versailles; three grandchildren Jack, Sam, and Kelly Lohrum; one brother Richard Steuer of Versailles; one sister Linda Lauber of Milan. She was also preceded in death by her parents, and her brothers Fred and John Steuer. Mrs. Lohrum was a 1950 graduate of Milan High School. She was a homemaker and had worked part time at the Spencer-Tyson Pharmacy in Versailles. Pat enjoyed collecting cookie jars and had amassed a collection of nearly 300, but her main joy in life came from doting on her grandchildren. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, January 15 at 12pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Randy Thieman officiating. Burial will be in the Washington Cemetery in Elrod. Visitation will also be on Saturday beginning at 10am. Memorials may be given to the Ripley County Humane Society in care of the funeral home.

John W. Volz, 79, of Osgood passed away at 2:20p.m., Thursday, January 6, 2022, at the Margaret Mary Community Hospital in Batesville. He was born near Lookout on Sunday, April 19, 1942, the son of Paul and Annabelle Burkhart Volz. He was married to Theresa Schutte on June 15, 1963,    and his wife of 58 years survives. Other survivors include six sons Jeff (Cathy) Volz of Osgood, Eric (Jenny Zapfe) Volz of Greensburg, Brian (Eva) Volz of Osgood, Mike (Susan) Volz of Fisherville, Kentucky, Shawn Volz of Napoleon, and Jason (Christi) Volz of Osgood; 20 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren; one brother Andy (Carol) Volz of Batesville; two sisters Pauline (Don) Schmidt and Susie (James) Nichols both of Batesville; sister-in-law Roxanne Schneider of Batesville. He was preceded in death by his grandson Jack Thomas Volz, his parents and his brother Ron “Butch” Volz. Mr. Volz was a 1960 graduate of Napoleon High School where he played on the Bearcat basketball team. John was a farmer and his working career off the farm spanned many years. He was a former employee of Chris Volz Motors in Milan, Cummins Engine in Columbus, Hil-Rom in Batesville, and Standard Fertilizer in New Point. He and Theresa were both school bus drivers for the Jac-Cen-Del schools and John drove for 34 years. His hobbies included coon hunting, playing euchre and 500, pitching horseshoes, horseback riding, camping, and participating in the Comer Wagon Train on Labor Day. The Volz family also operated a large truck garden. John was a member of the St. John Catholic Church in Osgood. Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday, January 13 at 10a.m. at St. Johns with Father John Meyer officiating. Burial will be in the St. Louis Catholic Cemetery in Batesville. Visitation will be on Wednesday from 4p.m. to 7p.m. at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Rosary services beginning at 3:30p.m. Memorials may be given to the Osgood Fire Department or the St. John Catholic Church in care of the funeral home.

Lloyd L. Walsh, 77, of Versailles passed away at 9:40am, Wednesday, January 5, 2022 at the St. Elizabeth Dearborn Hospital in Lawrenceburg. He was born at the Whitlatch Clinic in Milan on November 29, 1944, the son of John Leslie and Ruth Brower Walsh. He was married to his high school sweetheart Bernice Pulley on October 13, 1961 and after 55 years of marriage she preceded him in death on August 31, 2016. Survivors include three daughters Lisa (John) Clark of Aurora, Kim (Pat) Cornett of Moores Hill, and Raven Walsh of Aurora; 10 grandchildren and 24 great-grandchildren; two brothers Alan Walsh of Bloomington and David (Janie) Walsh of Palm Bay, Florida. He was also preceded in death by his parents, and his infant brother Charles. Mr. Walsh was a 1962 graduate of Versailles High School. Lloyd spent his working career as a self-employed carpenter and also belonged to Carpenters Union Local 1147 in Lawrenceburg. He enjoyed vacations in Florida, attending auctions and rodeos, and also horseback riding. Lloyd was a member of the Versailles Baptist Church. Funeral services will be held on Monday, January 10 at 11am at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Rev. Mike Cantrell officiating. Burial will be in the Holton Cemetery. Visitation will also be on Monday beginning at 10am. Memorials may be given to the donor’s choice in care of the funeral home.

Edward Louis Armbrecht, 72, of Versailles, passed away on January 2, 2022, at River Terrace Health Campus, Madison. He was born on June 25, 1949, in Batesville, the son of Orvall and Lucille (Prakel) Armbrecht. Edward attended Versailles High School and was a member of the 1967 graduating class of South Ripley High School. He earned a bachelor’s degree in Business from Indiana University. On November 27, 1970, he married Phyllis Ann Obendorf at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Olean.

Edward’s professional career included working as a Field Examiner for the Indiana State Board of Accounts and Business Manager of Madison Consolidated Schools. He also served on the SEI Communications Board of Directors, Treasurer of St. Paul Lutheran Church, Ripley County Council, and Ripley County Democrat Central Committee. As a member of Ripley County Council, Edward’s financially conservative leadership enabled the county to pay cash to build the current Courthouse Annex, something that was a source of great pride. He earned great respect from the community for his work on County Council.

In November 1979, Edward and Phyllis embarked on a 40+ year partnership with his brother and sister-in-law Larry and Brenda Armbrecht by acquiring the Versailles Dairy Queen. They worked tirelessly and successfully to serve the best ice cream around. Over the years, the foursome created lifelong relationships with their employees and had a lasting impact on those individuals, who became like family.

Over the past 15 years, Edward spent his free time traveling to watch his grandchildren participate in their various sporting endeavors, which brought him great happiness.

Edward is survived by his wife of 51 years, Phyllis; son Brian (Kristen) Armbrecht of Madison, daughters Becky Turner of Versailles, and Jennifer (John) Bunselmeier of Osgood; 6 grandchildren Derek and Chad Turner, Molly, Ava, Grant and Sadie Armbrecht; mother-in-law Irma Obendorf Rohls; sister Dena (Gregory) Cartwright of Campbellsville, KY, and brother Larry (Brenda) Armbrecht of Versailles; sisters-in-law Maria Armbrecht of Madison and Deborah Armbrecht of The Villages, FL; brother-in-law and sister-in-law Dr. Robert and Ellen Mulford, and sister-in-law Susie Obendorf, all of Versailles; several nieces and nephews.

Edward was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Danny and Gary Armbrecht, father-in-law Arnold “Shorty” Obendorf, and brother-in-law Kenneth Obendorf.

Services for Edward will be held, Thursday, January 6, 2022, at 11:00 am at St. Paul Lutheran Church, Olean, with Edward's lifelong friend, Rev. James Budke officiating. Burial will be in the St. Paul Cemetery. The family requests all attendees wear a mask to the service. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the St. Paul Lutheran Church, Olean, in care of the funeral home.

Owanna Lee (Mickie) Stratton, 93, of Versailles passed away at 9:15pm, Monday, January 3, 2022 at Ripley Crossing in Milan. She was born in Blue Ash, Ohio on October 6, 1928, the daughter of Norman and Bessie Bray Ray. She was married to William E. Stratton on April 28, 1946 and he preceded her in death on December 28, 1992. Survivors include two sons Rodney (Becky) Stratton of Holton and Robert (Jody) Stratton of Madeira Beach, Florida; one daughter Melody (Mike) Burnett of St. Paul; her son-in-law Max (Jane) Moreland of Versailles, and her brother-in-law James Dent also of Versailles; 10 granddaughters and 26 great-grandchildren. She was also preceded in death by her parents, her daughter Carolyn Moreland, and her sister Norma Jean Dent. Mrs. Stratton was a 1946 graduate of Holton High School. She began her working career as a secretary for Judge Amos Jackson in Versailles and retired after 25 years as an administrative assistant at the Muscatatuck State Developmental Center at Butlerville. Mickie was also a homemaker and she and Bill always enjoyed the life they had on their farm near Dabney. In retirement years she moved to Versailles and enjoyed her time with her large family.  Mickie was a 72 year member of the Dabney Baptist Church where she participated in many aspects. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, January 8^th at 12pm at the Dabney Baptist Church with Rev. Mike Bell officiating. Burial will be in the Cliff Hill Cemetery in Versailles. Visitation will also be on Saturday at the church beginning at 10am. Memorials may be given to the church building fund in care of the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles.

  Doris Mae Lewis, 75, of Holton passed away at 8:45am, Saturday, January 1, 2022 at the Manderley Health Care Center in Osgood. She was born in Cincinnati on July 19, 1946 the daughter of Brent and Lucille Hammon Schlotman. She was married to William Lewis on August 31, 1977 and he preceded her in death on August 25, 2016. Survivors include two sons Greg (Debbie) Schlotman of Fairland and Bryan (Lisa) Schlotman of Holton; 4 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren. She was also preceded in death by her parents. Mrs. Lewis was a 1964 graduate of Holton High School and a veteran of the Vietnam War. She served as a Staff Sergeant with the US Air Force from June 29, 1964 through June 30, of 1976 and re-enlisted with the US Army serving from July 31, 1977 through December 5, 1988. For service to her country Doris received the National Defense Service Medal, Armed Forces Reserve Medal, Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal, and the Army Service Ribbon. Doris was very patriotic and her time in the military was a very big part of her life. Her hobbies included fishing and sewing. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, January 4^th at 6pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Randy Thieman officiating. Visitation will begin at 5pm on Tuesday. Doris’ wishes were to be cremated and burial will follow at a later date at the Tanglewood Cemetery. Memorials may be given to the Tanglewood Cemetery in care of the funeral home.

 HOME