Stratton - Karsteter Funeral Home

P.O. Box 84
1114 South Ripley Estates Dr.
Versailles Indiana
812 - 689 -1171

Obituaries for Year 2023

Delbert J. Abplanalp, 95, of Napoleon passed away at 6 p.m., Wednesday, December 6, 2023 at the Margaret Mary Community Hospital in Batesville. He was born in the Happy Hollow community west of Osgood on January 17, 1928, the son of Joe and Elsie Peetz Abplanalp. He was married to Dorothy Butt on February 6, 1954 and she preceded him in death on June 24, 2021. Survivors include two sons Roger (Dee) Abplanalp of Osgood and Larry (Brenda) Abplanalp of Napoleon; one daughter Peggy Abplanalp of Indianapolis; two grandchildren Chelsea Abplanalp of Aurora and Joe (Linsey) Abplanalp of Batesville; one great-grandson Xander Abplanalp. He was also preceded in death by his parents and his brother Gilmore. Mr. Abplanalp was a 1946 graduate of Osgood High School. He was lifelong farmer and had also been employed with the Ripley County Farm Bureau, as well as doing trucking for the Napoleon Lumber Company. He was well known in the community as the local historian, the man you went to when you needed answers about happenings long ago. He had also given many presentations on the 1897 hanging at Versailles. Delbert was an accomplished musician, playing with many different individuals through the years providing music at local dances and playing for nursing homes. He was able to play his guitar until just the last couple of months. Delbert was a member of the St. John Lutheran Church at Napoleon and had served for over 30 years as the church cemetery sexton. He was also a member and director for the Ripley County Historical Society as well as the Osgood Historical Museum. Funeral services will be held on Monday, December 11 at 10:30 a.m.at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Doug Brougher officiating. Burial will be in the St. John Lutheran Cemetery at Napoleon. Visitation will be on Sunday from 3 p.m. until 6.p.m. Memorials may be given to the St. John Lutheran Cemetery or the Osgood Museum in care of the funeral home

Jeffrey Michael Buchanan, 63, of Versailles passed away Thursday, November 16, 2023 at St. Elizabeth Hospice after bravely battling multiple health issues.  He was born in Madison on January 27, 1960, the son of Paul R. and Joyce Lee Buchanan.

Jeff, or Buck as he was known to friends, was a 1978 graduate of South Ripley High School where he played basketball and baseball for the Raiders.  Jeff enlisted in the US Air Force and served at Seymour Johnson AFB in Goldsboro, North Carolina.  After proudly serving his country, he returned to Indiana and earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Education from IUPUC.  Jeff began his teaching career at South Dearborn High School and then moved on to teach at Madison Junior High School where he taught English until he retired.  He also coached girls' varsity basketball and was the yearbook advisor for the junior high.  Jeff loved writing and teaching poetry and even had a few of his poems published.  Jeff’s passion was golf.  He loved playing golf and giving golf lessons until debilitating arthritis sidelined him.  Jeff also enjoyed debating politics and researching family ancestry.

Jeff will be sadly missed by his daughter Megan (Josh) Hale of Fishers; son Alex Buchanan of Indianapolis; mother Joyce Buchanan of Versailles; sisters Andrea (Phil) Richter of Versailles and Carly Buchanan of Houston, Texas; two brothers, Cody (Tracy) Buchanan of Holton and Casey (Erica) Buchanan of Versailles; Nephews Andrew (Faith) Richter, Brogan, Luke, Benjamin and Casen Buchanan; nieces Dylan and Aubrey Buchanan; and grandson Thomas Joseph Hale of Fishers.  He was preceded in death by his father Paul (PR) Buchanan, and brothers Tony Buchanan and Charles Buchanan, and nephew Brandon Buchanan.

Services will be held on Monday, November 27^th @ 11:00 am in the Chapel at the Indiana Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Madison, Indiana.  Interment will follow services with Military Honors performed by the Versailles American Legion Post 173.  Memorials may be made to the Versailles American Legion in care of Stratton-Karstetter Funeral Home

Martha M. Browning, 98, of Versailles passed away at 8 a.m., Sunday, November 12, 2023 at her home. She was born in Benham on June 13, 1925, the daughter of Benjamin and Sara Benefiel Buchanan. She was married to Don Browning on June 28, 1942 and he preceded her in death on March 24, 1979. Survivors include one son Keith (Kathy) Browning of Pasadena, California; two daughters Sherri Baier of Georgia and Robin Browning of Versailles; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; daughter-in-law Beverly Browning; sister-in-law Mary Buchanan Smith of Benham. She was also preceded in death by her parents, her sons Robert and John, her brothers Emmett, James, Wilkie, and Kenneth Buchanan and her sisters Faye Ramsey and Naomi Peaslee. Mrs. Browning grew up in the Benham community and attended the Benham School. Her and Don began Browning’s Campground east of Versailles in 1974 and Martha operated this until her retirement in 2021 at the age of 96. Prior to owning the campground she and Don had owned and operated the Greasy Spoon restaurant on the Square in Versailles. Martha was a member of the Eastern Star and attended the Shelby Christian Church. Funeral services will be private with burial in the Benham Cemetery. Memorials may be given to the Benham Cemetery in care of the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles.

Helen Louise Ballard, 78, of Sunman passed away at 9:30 p.m., Tuesday, October 10, 2023 at her home. She was born in Cincinnati on February 12, 1945 the daughter of Owen and Elsie May Smith Holaway. She was married to Earl Ballard on July 17, 1965 and he preceded her in death on July 3, 2005. Survivors include two sons Eddie Ballard of Madison and Robert Ballard of Sunman; one daughter Kathy Ballard also of Sunman. She was also preceded in death by her parents, son Michael, her brothers Kenneth and Robert Holaway, and her sisters Dorothy Seller and Juanita Gilbreath. Mrs. Ballard was a homemaker and attended the First Southern Baptist Church at Sunman. Funeral services will be held at 3 p.m., Saturday October 14 at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Rev. Don Yates officiating. Burial will be in the Cliff Hill Cemetery in Versailles. Visitation will also be on Saturday beginning at 2 p.m. Memorials may be given to the donor’s choice in care of the funeral home

Eva Mae Wagoner, 88, of Holton passed away at 1:10 p.m., Sunday, October 1, 2023 at Ripley Crossing in Milan. She was born in the Hopewell Community near Holton on September 18, 1935, the daughter of Floyd and Ida Barricklow Franklin. She was married to Charles Wagoner on December 6, 1959 and he preceded her in death on April 16, 2014. Survivors include two daughters Annette (Mark) Sims of North Vernon and Barbette (Chuck) Wickstrom of Benham; 8 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren; two brothers Gene (Shirley) Franklin and Frank Franklin of Holton; one sister Rowena Sanders of Edinburg; sister-in-law Henrietta Franklin of Lawrenceburg; special friends Mike and Terri Beebe of Riverview, Florida. She was also preceded in death by her parents, her son Charles Mark Wagoner, her granddaughter Alivia Wickstrom Burns, her brothers Allen and Ben Franklin, and her sister Leota Conover. Mrs. Wagoner was a 1953 graduate of Holton High School. Her working career spanned many years with employment at US Shoe in Osgood, serving as a deputy in the Ripley County Clerk’s office, and at Hopkins Store in Holton. In their later years Charles and Eva Mae lived in Florida and she worked as a server in the Po Folks and Western Sizzlin restaurants. She retired in 2002 from the Firemen’s Fund Insurance Company in Tampa where she wrote claims. She enjoyed being with her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She also loved fishing, sewing, embroidery, and would say she could hold her own with the boys in the bass club. Eva Mae was a member of the Hopewell Baptist Church, Eastern Star, and the Dixie County Bass Club. Funeral services will be held on Friday, October 6 at 1 p.m. at the Hopewell Baptist Church with Rev. Kendall Wildey officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Visitation will also be on Friday at the church beginning at 11 a.m. Memorials may be given to Our Hospice or the Hopewell Cemetery in care of the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles.

Pat Titkemeyer, 80, of Lawrenceburg, entered into eternal life on Sunday, September 17, 2023. She will always be remembered as the doting wife, of 58 years, to Paul Titkemeyer, Lawrenceburg.  Other survivors include two children, Dlisa (Ken Kramer) Titkemeyer, and Mike (Katrina) Titkemeyer, all of Lawrenceburg. Grandchildren: Ashlee (Evan) Althoff, of Versailles, Logan (Corbin) Karsteter, Germany, Mallory (Steven Grimme) Zimmerman, of Louisville, KY, Kyle Van Guelpen, and Brenna Van Guelpen, of Lawrenceburg. Her most precious babies of all, her great-grandchildren, Emery and Emmett Althoff, Versailles, will miss her terribly. Her sisters, Julia (Ernest) Vanover, of Evarts, KY, and Jane (Jim) Helton, Harlan, KY, sister-in-law, Mary Dickerson, Verona, KY, as well as a crew of nieces, nephews, and other family members will continue to hold Pat’s memory close.

 To know Pat was to love her. She spent 34 years as an educator and mentor at Lawrenceburg Community Schools, during which time she was an active board member with the Indiana Teachers Union. She continued advocating for education well into retirement, spending nearly 20 years subbing and continuing to work with children. She was an active member at Tanner Valley United Methodist Church. There wasn’t a meal that happened with Pat being an integral part in the planning and execution.

 Pat’s greatest success was being a Nana. She became a Nana to anyone and everyone who needed love and support, never meeting a stranger. Often times, she forgot her given name, but always answered to The Nana.

 Pat was preceded in death by her parents, Grant and Agnes Howard, and siblings Bob Howard and Dorothy Hubbard.

 To honor Nana’s memory, in lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to an education fund for Pat’s most precious, her great-grandchildren, in care of the funeral home.

 Services will be held Saturday, September 23 at Tanner Valley United Methodist Church in Lawrenceburg, IN. Visitation will be Saturday from 11:00 am- until time of service. Funeral service will be held at 2:00 pm, at the church. Graveside services will immediately follow at Greendale Cemetery. Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home is entrusted with the care of arrangements.

Joseph Wayne Scoggins, 70, of Milan passed away at 8 a.m., Monday, September 11, 2023 at his home. He was born in Sylcouga, Alabama on February 18, 1953, the son of John and Willene Adams Scoggins. He was married to Linda Kemker on April 1, 1972 and his wife of 52 years survives. Other survivors include three sons Steven (Christy) Scoggins and Randy Scoggins both of Versailles, and Robert (Cortney) Scoggins of Milan; grandchildren Stephanie, DJ, Eric, Nathan, Scott, Abby, and Emily Scoggins, Andrew McCrory, and Morgan Clark; two great-grandchildren, many nieces and nephews; “bonus” children Jim and Cathy Betz of Milan, Richard and Heather Block and Chris and Ai Brown all of Versailles, Mike and Amber Wilhoit of Osgood, and Jason Bess of Napoleon. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brothers John, Robert, and Terry, and his sister Pat. Joe spent his early years walking and later grooming race horses at Louisville, Latonia, Chicago, Hot Springs, Arkansas as well as other tracks around the country. He retired from his working career in 2011 from Indiana Precision Tooling in Dillsboro where he worked as a machinist. Joe loved his grandchildren and enjoyed fishing, hunting, gardening, and following the Reds and the Dallas Cowboys. Funeral services will be held on Friday, September 15 at 11a.m. at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Rev. Harris Long officiating. Visitation will be on Thursday from 6p.m. to 8p.m. Memorials may be given to the Margaret Mary Community Hospital Cancer Center or Our Hospice in care of the funeral home.

Phyllis Ann (Obendorf) Armbrecht, 70, of Versailles, passed away peacefully at her home on Saturday, September 9, 2023.

Phyllis was born to Arnold “Shorty” and Irma (Hurelbrink) Obendorf on September 4, 1953, in Milan.  She grew up and lived most of her life in the Cross Plains area.  Phyllis attended elementary school at Cross Plains and was a member of the South Ripley class of 1971.  

Phyllis and Edward Louis Armbrecht were married at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Olean on November 27, 1970.  They were blessed with three children, Brian, Becky, and Jennifer.

A lifelong member of St. Paul Lutheran Church, Phyllis was baptized October 4, 1953, and confirmed her faith as an adult member in 1967. Always present to lend a hand for any activity or event, she was extremely active within the church, serving on several committees, church council and member of the choir. 

Providing music ministry to the littlest members of the congregation brought her great joy.  She introduced many children to the ministry of Mary Rice-Hopkins and helped organize concerts at the church.

Phyllis was a member of the Delta Rho Chapter of Kappa Kappa Kappa, Inc. and the Ripley County Democrats, serving in many leadership roles. 

Phyllis and Edward, along with brother-in-law and sister-in-law Larry and Brenda Armbrecht, purchased the Versailles Dairy Queen in November of 1979.  A staple in the Versailles community for 70 years, the Armbrechts continued that legacy by supporting local youth organizations, schools and other community events all while serving the best DQ treats around.  Phyllis was known for her decorated DQ cakes and enjoyed providing fun and unique creations for hundreds of occasions.  The employees that have worked their way through the DQ are family.  Phyllis often referred to them as her “DQ kids.” 

Phyllis loved the arts. Singing in the church choir and local community choirs held a special place in her heart. Phyllis shared that passion by organizing group outings to see various plays and musicals.  One of her most beloved trips was a quick visit to Broadway in New York City.

Phyllis loved her grandchildren.  Watching them as they participated in events and activities brought her great happiness and pride.  Grandma Phyllis created amazing birthday cakes.  She found a way to make each cake personal and unique. 

Phyllis was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2003 and again in 2008.  A lung cancer diagnosis followed in 2016. Throughout her journey, she provided love, support and inspiration to many others facing their own cancer battles.  

 She often remarked it took a village to help her through her cancer battles.  Her village was vast, filled with family, friends, medical professionals, and other survivors.  She was involved in Ripley County Relay for Life, Casting for Recovery, and attended the Susan G. Komen Luncheon on multiple occasions.  She was a true warrior and an example of strength, bravery, and faithfulness. 

Phyllis is survived by her children; 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; sister Ellen (Dr. Robert) Mulford of Versailles; sisters-in-law Susie Obendorf of Versailles;  Deborah Armbrecht of The Villages, FL; Dena (Gregory) Cartwright of Campbellsville, KY; Maria Armbrecht of Madison and brother-in-law Larry (Brenda) Armbrecht of Versailles; several nieces and nephews. Phyllis was preceded in death by her husband, Edward; parents Arnold and Irma Obendorf; brother Kenneth Obendorf; brothers-in-law Danny and Gary Armbrecht; father-in-law Orvall Armbrecht and mother-in-law Lucille (Prakel) Armbrecht; and niece Megan Mulford. 

Services for Phyllis will be held Thursday, September 14, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Paul Lutheran Church, Olean, with Rev. Dr. Evangeline Anderson-Rajkumar officiating. Burial will be in the St. Paul Cemetery.  

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be given to the Music Fund of the St. Paul Lutheran Church, Olean, in care of the funeral home. These memorials will be used to bring the ministry of Mary Rice-Hopkins back to our community. Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements.

Debra Ann Downey, 59, of Cross Plains passed away at 6:30 p.m., Saturday, August 26, 2023 at Our Hospice of Southcentral Indiana in Columbus. She was born in Cumberland, Maryland on January 5, 1964, the daughter of Richard and Vera Rowe Huff. She was married to Dennis Downey on October 31, 2020 and he survives. Other survivors include one son Kenneth Merica of Madison; one daughter Kimberly Nelson and her companion Frederic Tobe of Cross Plains; two brothers Richard Huff, Jr. of Cumberland, Maryland and Charles (Jen) Huff of Palmyra, Pennsylvania; one sister Rosemary Milburn of Morgantown, West Virginia. She was preceded in death by her parents. Mrs. Downey was a 1982 graduate of Allegany High School in Cumberland. She was a former employee of the Holiday Inn in Madison. Debra enjoyed reading and was a paranormal investigator. Debra’s wishes were to be cremated and a celebration of her life will be held at a later date. The Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles is in charge of arrangements.

We are heartbroken to announce that our beloved Todd Joseph Castner age 64 of Indianapolis, IN passed away on Wednesday, August 23, 2023. He died peacefully at home with his devoted wife by his side after suffering for almost two decades from primary progressive MS (PPMS). Since the onset of PPMS in 2005, Todd experienced a continuous worsening of disability, leading to total body dysfunction, finally resulting in death.  Despite our best efforts, advanced therapies, and lifestyle changes, remission did not occur. Todd fought this unrelenting disease valiantly with courage and conviction for 18 years. He never gave up, nor did he ever give in to the end.

      Todd was born on November 7, 1958, to Jarvis and Betty Castner of Versailles, Indiana in Batesville at Margaret Mary Hospital. Todd was one of five children: Craig (Ginger) daughter Brittaney; Greg (Rosie) daughter and son Amber and Andrew; Tim - daughters Ashley and Courtney; Marybeth (Sandy) son Dezi.  He grew up in the old-fashioned small town of Versailles with the picturesque Versailles State Park as his playground and Pollard's Bowling Alley as his after-school hangout where he forged enduring relationships that were a blessing to him throughout his life.

    Todd married Donna Speer on January 25,1980 in Modesto California at the Centenary Protestant Church. They were married for over 43 years! They have one child: Adam, who is married to Kayla Lamb of Modesto, California. Todd and Donna resided in Modesto for the biggest part of their marriage. In 2007, they moved back to Indiana. Todd began to have prominent signs of decline in his health. They have lived there for the past fifteen years.

    Todd belonged to the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 332, San Jose, CA and was a Forman. He was a U.S. Army Reservist for 6 years and was a Supply Specialist. When Todd could no longer work, he became a student of the Bible, studying the history of God's people throughout the ages at Ambassador College, Pasadena, CA. It is named the "Worldwide Church of God."

  Todd's final word before he passed away was: “Beautiful”. We will miss him until we meet again!

  Celebration of Life service will be held at Tyson Methodist Church, Versailles, IN on Saturday, September 2, 2023 at 11:00 AM. We invite all family and friends to join us. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Cliff Hill Cemetery through Stratton Funeral Home.

Lynnette Rae Beeman, 41 of North Vernon passed away at 2a.m., Monday, August 14, 2023 at her home. She was born in Lawrenceburg on January 28, 1982, the daughter of Don Watts and Marlene Barrett. She was married to Shawn Beeman on June 22, 2019 and he survives. Other survivors include four daughters Natalie Cox of Madison, Chloe and Christa Woods of Scottsburg, and Delaina Gordon of Deputy; step-daughter Nicole Beeman and step-son Brently Beeman both of North Vernon; her granddaughter Allerice Box; her mother Marlene Smith of Westport; her father and mother-in-law Jim and Teresa Beeman of North Vernon; her grandmother Martha Barrett of Versailles; one sister Erynn Dyer of Greensburg; one brother Timmy Owens of Westport. She was preceded in death by her father. Lynnette had been employed with Erlers Industries in North Vernon where she worked in quality control. She was currently the office manager for Beeman Lumber in Holton. She enjoyed dirt track racing, tending to her garden and chickens, and attending concerts. Lynnette was a member of the Bear Creek Baptist Church in Friendship, Eastern Star Chapter 183 in North Vernon, and had served on the North Vernon Library Board. Funeral services will be held at 3p.m., Thursday, August 17 at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Rev. Sherman Hughes officiating. Burial will be in the Akers Cemetery at Friendship. Visitation will also be on Thursday beginning at 1p.m. followed by Eastern Star services at 3p.m. Memorials may be given to the Eastern Star or Our Hospice in care of the funeral home.

 Robert A. “Bob” DeBurger, 63, of Osgood passed away Saturday morning, August 12, 2023 at the Christ Hospital in Cincinnati. He was born in Batesville on November 13, 1959, the son of Ralph and Mary Hockersmith DeBurger. He was married to Jeanne Jackson on September 6, 1980 and she survives. Other survivors include his mother Mary DeBurger of Osgood; one daughter Sarah DeBurger (Franklin Gomez) of Osgood; two brothers Larry (Connie) DeBurger of LaGrange, Kentucky, and Gary (Connie) DeBurger of Osgood; two sisters Sue (Mike) DiBease of Batesville and Cheryl (Bob) Parker of Plainfield; two grandchildren Emily and Gabriella. He was preceded in death by his father and his sister Sandra Robertson. Mr. DeBurger was a 1978 graduate of Jac-Cen-Del High School. In his working career Bob was employed with the Jay C Stores as a meat cutter and also with the Blue Flame Gas Company in Versailles. He retired after 20 years with the Ripley County Highway Garage. He also had operated Bob’s Sharp-All and Repair in Osgood. Bob was known as a very caring individual who enjoyed his family, fishing, hunting, and “checking out” different locations on his golf cart. Funeral services will be held at 7p.m., Wednesday, August 16 at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Rev. Becky Pohle officiating. Visitation will begin at 5p.m. Memorials may be given to the Shelby Cemetery or the Osgood Fire Department in care of the funeral home.

Challice (Chad) Bode, 97, of Holton passed away at 10p.m., Sunday, July 2, 2023 at the University of Louisville Hospital. She was born in Rush County on January 21, 1926, the daughter of Wyman and Esta Ensminger Edens. Survivors include one son Gayle (Donna) Pribble of North Vernon; two daughters Christy (Earnie) Patrick of Versailles and Lana Kay (Dave) Scoggins of Osgood; her son-in-law Douglas Tuley of Versailles; 10 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, and 19 great-great-grandchildren; two sisters Joy Slavin of North Vernon and Rosalie Hoover of Greenwood. She was preceded in death by her parents, her daughters Rosemary Pribble and Wynona Lou Tuley, her brothers Wayne and Gayle Edens, and her sisters June Pribble, Vonda Hess, Joan Easter, and Geraldine Hillan. Mrs. Bode was a 1944 graduate of Holton High School. She was a former employee of US Shoe in Osgood and the Delaney Wood Heel factory in Versailles. Chad enjoyed being outside, doing word search puzzles, quilting, and sewing, especially making pajama bags. She was a member of the Holton Christian Church. Chad’s wishes were to be cremated and a celebration of her life will be held on Saturday, July 8 at 11a.m. at the Holton Christian church with her nephew James Adams and Pastor Bob McCreary officiating. Burial will follow in the Holton Cemetery. Visitation will also be at the church beginning at 10a.m.on Saturday. Memorials may be given to the Holton Christian Church in care of the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles.

Longtime educator Larry Sutherlin, 80, of Versailles passed away at 1:10p.m., Tuesday, June 27, 2023, at the Norton Hospital in Louisville. He was born in Crawfordsville on January 18, 1943, the son of Roscoe and Josephine Byrd Sutherlin. He married Sue Ann Michael, his wife of 56 years, on June 10, 1967, and she survives. Other survivors include sons David (Leslie) Sutherlin of Milan and Doug (Loreana) Sutherlin of Floyds Knobs, daughter Debbie (Andy) Holbrook of Ft. Wayne, and sister Joyce Samples of Versailles. Also surviving are eight grandchildren:  Jack Sutherlin, Elizabeth Sutherlin, Lily Sutherlin, Sam Sutherlin, Sophia Sutherlin, Olivia Sutherlin, Parker Sutherlin, and Xavier Holbrook.  He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Robert. Mr. Sutherlin graduated from Versailles High School in 1961 and received his Bachelor’s Degree in Education from Tennessee Tech in 1968.  Later, he earned his Master’s Degree from Indiana University. His teaching career began at Moores Hill School and then continued for 33 years in the South Ripley School Corporation, retiring in 2001. During his tenure at South Ripley, he taught juniors and seniors, served as prom director, student council sponsor, class sponsor, in addition to coaching baseball and freshman basketball. He possessed a great love for children and his life’s blessing was in teaching. Mr. Sutherlin was a 50-year member of the Versailles Baptist Church, a member of the Ripley County Retired Teachers Association, and served as a member Ripley County Basketball Hall of Fame Committee for many years. In 2001, he was bestowed the Sagamore of the Wabash by Indiana Governor Frank O’Bannon. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, July 1, at 11 a.m. at the Versailles Baptist Church with Rev. Mike Cantrell officiating. Burial will be in the Cliff Hill Cemetery in Versailles. Visitation will be on Friday from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles and on Saturday from 10 a.m. until time of services at the Versailles Baptist Church. There will be a scholarship fund established in Mr. Sutherlin’s name and contributions may be made in care of the funeral home.

Leota M. Conover, 89, of Holton passed away at 6p.m., Friday, May 12, 2023 at St. Andrews Health Campus in Batesville. She was born near Holton on February 16, 1934, the daughter of Floyd and Ida Barricklow Franklin. She was married to Egbert Conover on April 12, 1953 and he preceded her in death on July 15, 2003. Survivors include one son Nathan (Becky) Conover of Holton; two daughters Susan (Larry) Black of Osgood and Sally (Mike) Webster of Cross Plains; 10 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren; two brothers Gene (Shirley) Franklin and Frank Franklin both of Holton; two sisters Eva Mae Wagoner of North Vernon and Rowena Sanders of Edinburg. She was also preceded in death by her parents, her son Norman Conover, and her brothers Allen and Ben Franklin. Mrs. Conover was a 1952 graduate of Holton High School. Leota’s working career spanned over 40 years where she worked as a cook at both the Holton and South Ripley schools. She enjoyed playing cards and had been a member of the Hopewell Ladies Card Club. Her life centered around her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and her church family at Hopewell. Sunday dinners after church were at her house and involved kick ball and softball games in the front yard after the meal. Leota was a member of the Hopewell Baptist Church. Funeral services will be held at Hopewell on Wednesday, May 17 at 11a.m. with Rev. David Shivers and Rev. Luke Koors officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Visitation will be on Tuesday from 5p.m. to 8p.m. at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles and from 10a.m. until time of services Wednesday at the church. Memorials may be given to the Hopewell Baptist Church in care of the funeral home. 

 Opal R. Day, 95, of Versailles passed away at 12:30a.m., Wednesday, April 26, 2023 at the Kings Daughters Hospital in Madison. She was born near Benham on April 17, 1928, the daughter of Charles and Julia Mathews Meisberger. Survivors include two sons Darrell (Lisa) Day of The Villages, Florida and Dennis (Stefanie) Day of Lebanon; one daughter Sandy Day Howard of Versailles; 12 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, her brothers Rom, Charles, and Howard Meisberger, and her sisters Florence Cardinal, Millie Webster, and Mildred and Susie Meisberger. She was a homemaker and a former employee of the Delaney Wood Heel Factory in Versailles. Opal’s life revolved around her family and her love for music. In her early years, she and her sister Millie and their brother Howard were involved in country music. They sang with Nancy Lou and her Pals, doing live radio performances and the three of them recorded five albums back in the 1940s. Opal was also an accomplished poet and she passed her love for music along to her children, encouraging them to study piano. Opal was the oldest living member of the Shelby Christian Church, having been a member for over 90 years. The church was a rock in her life, and at church, like everywhere, music was a major part. Funeral services will be held on Monday, May 1 at 11a.m. at the Shelby Christian Church with Bro. Earl Thomas, Tim Heim, and Randy Thieman officiating. Burial will be in the Benham Cemetery. Visitation will be on Sunday from 5p.m. to 7p.m. at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles and from 10a.m. Monday until time of services at the church. Memorials may be given to the Benham Cemetery in care of the funeral home. 

Martha Jane Pickett, 79, of Versailles passed away at 6 a.m., Tuesday, April 25, 2023 at the Margaret Mary Community Hospital in Batesville. She was born at Corbin in Whitley County, Kentucky on December 22, 1943, the daughter of Walker and Georgia Lee Harris Mason. She was married to Larry Lee Pickett on September 23, 1967 and he preceded her in death on August 23, 1997. Survivors include two sons Chris (Tracy) Pickett and Shane (Kim) Pickett both of Versailles; one daughter Laura (Judas) Bowling of Madison; grandchildren Megan (Chris) Bennett, Larry (Haley), Brittany, and Zach Pickett, Christian Lee, and Mercedes Bowling; two great-grandchildren Bentley and Paisley Bennett; two brothers Jim and Bill Mason both of Corbin. She was preceded in death by her parents, her grandson Gavin Lee, and her brothers Jerry, Burt, Bruce, and Ray Mason. Mrs. Pickett was a former employee of US Shoe in Osgood and Madison Electronics in Versailles. Through the years she had done babysitting for many families in the Versailles community. She enjoyed bingo at the Versailles American Legion, but her best times were with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Jane was a member of the Versailles Church of Christ. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, May 3 at 11 a.m. at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Randy Thieman officiating. Burial will be in the Grandview Memorial Garden near Madison.  Visitation will be on Tuesday, May 2 from 5p.m. to 7 p. m. Memorials may be given to the Versailles American Legion or the Versailles Church of Christ in care of the funeral home.

Pam Souders, 53, of Osgood passed away Sunday, April 16, 2023 at the Northwest Ohio

Developmental Center in Toledo. She was born in Batesville on February 7, 1970, the daughter of

Eugene and Pauline Canada Souders. Survivors include her mother Pauline Souders of Milan;

one sister Judy (Wayne) Evans of Milan, along with several aunts, uncles, and cousins. Pam

enjoyed music and singing, and taking drives. Even in dealing with her disabilities, Pam was

happy and enjoyed seeing her family. Visitation for Pam will be on Thursday, April 20 at 10am at

the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles. Graveside services will be at 11am at the

Tanglewood Cemetery with Rev. Charles Miller officiating. Memorials may be given to the

cemetery in care of the funeral home.

Violet Vanosdol, 89, of Versailles passed away at 11:55pm, Monday, April 17, 2023 at the Waters of Batesville. She was born near Friendship on December 13, 1933, the daughter of William and Leona Peaslee Clarkson. She was married to Ralph Vanosdol on November 9, 1957 and he preceded her in death on June 19, 2011. Survivors include two sons Keith Vanosdol of Versailles and Ron (Jane) Vanosdol of Terre Haute; one grandson Noah Alexander Vanosdol also of Terre Haute. She was also preceded in death by her parents and her sister Dorothy Bruce. Mrs. Vanosdol was a 1953 graduate of Cross Plains High School. She was a homemaker and a former employee of the Delaney Wood Heel Factory in Versailles. She enjoyed doing puzzles and tending to her flowers and her garden. Violet had been a member of the Shelby Christian Church for over 60 years. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, April 22 at 1pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Randy Thieman officiating. Burial will be in the Shelby Cemetery. Visitation will also be on Saturday beginning at 11am. Memorials may be given to the Shelby Cemetery in care of the funeral home.

 David L. Stoneking, 69, of Versailles passed away Saturday, March 18, 2023 at his home. He

was born at the Whitlatch Clinic in Milan on July 10, 1953, the son of William and Eva Jane

Starkey Stoneking. Survivors include two sons Tracy and Ryan Stoneking both of Versailles; three

grandchildren Zowie Pevlor, Khloe Pevlor and Michael Stoneking; one brother Sam Stoneking of

Holton. He was preceded in death by his parents, and his brothers William and Jerry. Mr.

Stoneking was a 1973 graduate of South Ripley High School and was a veteran of the US Army.

He had retired from Argosy Casino where he worked as a security guard. David was a member of

the Versailles Baptist Church, Helping Hands CB Club and the HAM Radio Club. He was

instrumental in the establishment of Rescue 69 and had also served as a weather spotter. David’s

wishes were to be cremated and a celebration of life service will be held at 1pm, Friday, March 24

at the Versailles Baptist Church with Rev. Mike Cantrell officiating. Visitation will begin at

12:30pm. Memorials may be given to the Versailles Baptist Church in care of the

Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles.

Deborah Marie Marsh-Niccum, 63, of Dillsboro passed away at 7:30p.m., Sunday, March 19, 2023 at the Waters of Batesville. She was born in Louisville on July 31, 1959 the daughter of Harold and Geneva Loyd Marsh. She was married to Terry Niccum on September 18, 1993 and he survives. Other survivors include one son Gabriel Marsh-Niccum and his fiancé Shania Kimla of Aurora; two grandchildren Lucas Kimla and Karlie Marsh-Niccum; one sister Donna Marsh of North Vernon. Mrs. Niccum was a 1977 graduate of Jennings County High School. She received her Bachelors Degree in Thanatology from Northern Kentucky University and her Masters Degree in social work from Spaulding University. Deborah owned and operated Country Serenity Counseling with locations in Rising Sun and Dillsboro and had owned and operated Designs by Debbie Flower Shop in Versailles. She was a former member of the Eastern Star and was always active in Republican politics. Deborah’s wishes were to be cremated and there will be no services. Memorials may be given to the donor’s choice in care of the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles.

 Irma Louise Caroline Hurelbrink Obendorf Rohls, 100, of Versailles, died March 8, 2023, at River Terrace Health Campus, Madison. She was born June 16, 1922, in Dewberry, the daughter of Henry and Louise (Bokenkamp) Hurelbrink. Irma attended grades 1 through 8 in the one-room schoolhouse at Correct. She was a member of the 1940 graduating class of Versailles High School and went on to graduate from Christ Hospital School of Nursing, Cincinnati, OH, in 1943. On May 6, 1944, she married Arnold “Shorty” Obendorf at St. Paul Lutheran Church. Irma and Arnold had three children: Ellen, Kenneth, and Phyllis. Arnold preceded her in death in 1973. On February 26, 1994, Irma married Leonard Rohls at St. Paul Lutheran Church and he preceded her in death in 2017.

As a registered nurse, Irma’s career spanned more than 50 years where she held various jobs in the nursing field: industrial, hospital, private duty, and school nursing. Her career included working at Margaret Mary Hospital, Jefferson Proving Ground, Reliance Electric, and finally South Ripley School Corporation. She maintained her active nursing license until she was well into her 90s.

Irma was a faithful member of St. Paul Lutheran Church, Olean, for over 95 years and was the oldest member of the congregation. She was the first woman in the congregation to be elected to Church Council. Irma served as church organist, president of the women’s organization, Sunday School Superintendent, and sang soprano in the choir until the age of 80. In 2002, she started the Prayer Shawl ministry at Olean as a way to reach those who were in need of comfort. In addition to prayer shawls, she crocheted hundreds of blankets, hats, and IV covers for Children’s Hospital in Cincinnati.

Irma was an accomplished seamstress and baker. She was able to share her talents with others through making bridal party dresses, designing and making quilts, baking and decorating intricate wedding cakes for local couples, including her children.

As a resident of River Terrace Health Campus for the past year, Irma continued her active lifestyle. She participated in baking, crafting, outings with the “lunch bunch,” and rarely missed a bingo game. Irma always wanted to visit all 50 states during her lifetime. The staff at River Terrace assisted her in that dream by taking her on a trip to visit her 49th state at the age of 99.

Irma was known for her kind, giving heart and was always ready for her next adventure. She will be missed by so many in the community, but especially her family.

Irma is survived by her daughters Ellen (Dr. Bob) Mulford and Phyllis Armbrecht; daughter-in-law Susie Obendorf; grandchildren Shannon, Brian, Beth, Becky, Jennifer, Erin, and Michael; 15 great-grandchildren and 3 great-great-grandchildren; sister Ruth Althoff; and numerous nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her husbands Arnold “Shorty” Obendorf and Leonard Rohls; brothers Robert and Ralph Hurelbrink; son Kenneth Obendorf; son-in-law Edward Armbrecht; and granddaughter Megan Mulford.

Isabel Richmond, 96, of Versailles passed away at 6:05pm, Saturday, March 4, 2023 at Morning Breeze in Greensburg. She was born near Cross Plains on July 5, 1926, the daughter of Dr. Lora and Edith Gullion Hooton. She was married to Verne Richmond on April 1, 1949 and he preceded her in death on August 20, 1998. Survivors include four sons Mark Richmond of Versailles, Gary (Debbie) Richmond of Greensburg, Rick Richmond of Vero Beach, Florida, and Mike (Cheryl) Richmond of Versailles; 7 grandchildren, 11 great grandchildren, and 3 great-great-grandchildren. She was also preceded in death by her parents, her brothers Quentin, Troy, Damon, Roland, Abell, and Bud Hooton, and her sister Lela Ricketts. Mrs. Richmond was a 1945 graduate of Cross Plains High School. Her working career spanned many years, being a former employee of Reynolds Gas Company in Osgood, Magnavox in Franklin, and Pearl Packing in Madison. She was an avid collector of Fenton ware and devoted much time and energy to taking care of stray animals that came her way. Isabel was a member of the Tanglewood Baptist Church. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, March 11 at 11am at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Rev. Roger Dean officiating. Visitation will be on Friday from 5pm to 7pm. Isabel’s wishes were to be cremated an burial will follow at a later date at the Tanglewood Cemetery. Memorials may be given to the Ripley County Humane Society or the Tanglewood Cemetery in care of the funeral home.

Louise Sipples, 84, of Versailles passed away at 8:30am, Friday, February 3, 2023 at Christ Hospital in Cincinnati. She was born at Curt in Breathitt County, Kentucky on January 2, 1939, the daughter of Lonzo and Flossie Chatt Bowling. She was married to Wayne Sipples on August 7, 1958 and he survives. Other survivors include two sons David Sipples of Madison, and Paul (Kris) Sipples of Batesville; one daughter Jill (Neal) Adams of Fountain City; 10 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren; two brothers Ernie (Lisa) Bowling of Lawrenceburg and Lonzo (Cindy) Bowling of Osgood; two sisters Lizzie (Sam) Turner of Union, Kentucky and Lois Oaks of Newport, Kentucky, and her sister-in-law Barbara Bowling of Batesville. She was preceded in death by her parents, her brothers Elmer and Earl Bowling, her sisters Glenna Bowling, Jill Turner, Christina Bowling, and Gail Siebert, and her great-grandchildren Knox Hewitt and Lacey Sipples. Louise was a very familiar face in the community, especially to the school children, as she worked at the Versailles and South Ripley Schools for over 39 years as a cook, retiring in 2013. She enjoyed quilting and had amassed a large collection of cookbooks. Louise was a member of the Hopewell Baptist Church. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, February 8 at 12pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Rev. Luke Koors of the Hopewell Baptist Church and Louise's brother Ernie Bowling officiating. Burial will be in the New Marion Cemetery. Visitation will also be on Wednesday beginning at 10am. Memorials may be given to the Hopewell Baptist Church or the Christ Hospital Foundation in care of the funeral home.

Mark D. Belanger, 62, of Versailles passed away Monday, January 30, 2023 at his home. He was born at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina on August 29, 1960, the son of Durham and Peggy Jean Bakeman Belanger. He was married to Michelle Tolbert on December 7, 1999 and she survives. Other survivors include two sons Bryan (April) Belanger and Joey Belanger both of Versailles; two daughters Deanna (Noah) Glaza of Las Vegas and Sarah (Cass) Belanger of Los Angeles; 8 grandchildren Brock, Loree, Nevaeh, Mariyah, Alyssah, Maddie, Kason, and Cora; three sisters Kerin of Texas, Diane of Nebraska, and Peggy Todd of Mississippi. He was preceded in death by his parents, his granddaughter Kennedy, his sister Renee, and his brother James. Mr. Belanger was a veteran of the United States Air Force and was a fork-lift operator for Zumbiel Packaging in Hebron, Kentucky. Mark was a fan of the Cincinnati Bengals. Mark's wishes were to be cremated and a visitation will be held on Thursday, February 2 beginning at 5pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with a celebration of Mark's life at 6pm with Randy Thieman officiating. Memorials may be given to the Ripley County Humane Society in care of the funeral home.

Louise Shaw, 79, of Benham passed away at 4:30pm, Tuesday, January 17, 2023 at her home. She was born in Vevay on August 31, 1943, the daughter of Roscoe and Gladys Bray Jackson. She was married to Danny Shaw on October 30, 1961 and her husband of 61 years survives. Other survivors include three daughters Bonnie Shaw of Cincinnati, Brenda Shaw of Benham, and Dana (BB) Porfirio of Madison; one sister Nancy (Billy) Lock of Vevay. She was preceded in death by her parents, her brothers Harold and Curtis Jackson, and her sister Rosemary Gaylord. Mrs. Shaw was a 1961 graduate of Vevay High School. Her working career spanned many years, working as a seamstress at US Shoe in Osgood for 35 years. After the shoe factory closed, Mrs. Shaw retired from J & J Packing in Sunman. Louise enjoyed gardening and tending to her flowers and just being outside. She also found time to read and was an outstanding cook. Her favorite past time was enjoying her grandchildren Crystal, Greg, DJ, Jasmine, Fred, Nick, Elizabeth, Lexi, Josie, and Levi, along with her great-grandchildren Wyle, JJ, Barley, Jordan, and Reece. Louise was a faithful member of the Concord Wesleyan Church. Graveside services will be held at 11am, Friday, January 20 at the Benham Cemetery with Pastor Jerry Vandervort officiating. Memorials may be given to the Benham Cemetery in care of the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles.

Ms. Betty L. Smock Castner of Versailles Indiana, entered this life on November 23, 1930 in Ripley county in Osgood Indiana and passed on the evening of January 12th 2023 in Versailles, In.

She was raised in the Catholic faith and loved attending mass as much as she could.

She was the daughter of the late Temple and Helen Abplanalp Smock. Betty graduated in 1949 from Osgood high school.

Her working career spanned many years where she worked as a secretary of both the South Ripley High School and the Ripley County Health Department. Betty received her Realtors license in 1981 and was an agent and secretary for Meisberger Realty in Versailles for over 40 years. She had many interests in life one of them being work. At age 92 Betty had worked in the real estate office the very day she passed away. She also enjoyed mowing, feeding the birds, talking on the phone with friends and family and was a fabulous cook.

Betty was a devoted loving mother, grandma and great grandma to her five children , four sons-Craig (Ginger) Castner, Greg (Annette) Castner and Tim Castner all of Modesto, California, and Todd (Donna) Castner of Indianapolis; one daughter Mary Beth (Sandy Pickett) Castner of Versailles; seven grandchildren and nine great grandchildren, Siblings Donna Siebert of Batesville , sister-in-law Carol Smock of Canaan. All of which enjoyed receiving her greeting cards with a balloon inside . She was preceded in death by her parents, her brothers Bill, Jim, and Ray Smock, brother-in-law Lloyd Siebert, former spouse and father of her children Jarvis Castner and her long time partner Marvin Meisberger.

Betty was a member of the St. John Catholic church in Osgood . Bettys wishes were to be cremated and a memorial mass honoring her life will be held on Saturday, January 28 at 11 AM at the St. John’s Catholic church Osgood, Indiana with a meal being served immediately after in the Church basement. At a later time her wish was to have her ashes taken to California and scattered out into the ocean at Half moon bay. Betty will be missed by many.

Memorials may be given to the Multiple Sclerosis foundation or the Osgood Cemetery in care of the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral home in Versailles, In .

 Joyce Ann Wahl, 52, of Versailles passed away at 12:30p.m., Tuesday, January 10, 2023 at the Columbus Regional Hospital. She was born in Hamilton, Ohio on March 17, 1970, the daughter of Ray and Jeanette Arvin Cox. She was married to George Wahl III on September 30, 1988 and he survives. Other survivors include one son Lance Cox of Versailles; two daughters Sarah Wahl and Rebecca Wahl both of Versailles; two brothers Richard Cox of Hamilton, Ohio and James Cox of Broadhead, Kentucky. She was preceded in death by her parents. Mrs. Wahl was a 1988 graduate of Hamilton (Ohio) High School. She was a full time Mom and Grandma and her family was first priority in her life. Joyce also enjoyed crocheting, along with keeping an eye on the political landscape in America. After raising her children, her eight grandchildren, Aiden, Braydon, Christopher, Damian, Eli, Ellie, Zoey, and Rylee became the focus of her life. Joyce was a member of the Hilltop Baptist Church in Versailles. Funeral services will be held on Friday, January 13 at 11am at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Rev. Carter Corbrey officiating. Burial will be in the Cliff Hill Cemetery in Versailles. Visitation will also be on Friday beginning at 9am. Memorials may be given to the donor's choice in care of the funeral home.

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