Stratton - Karstetter Obituarie Archive 2005

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

Obituaries Year 2005

Year 2005

Leslie R. Swinney, 66, of Osgood passed away Friday, December 30, 2005 at the Kings Daughters Hospital in Madison. He was born near New Marion on March 30, 1939 the son of Culver and Ethel Andress Swinney. He was married to Jill Wilhelm on August 21, 1960 and she survives. Other survivors include one son Anthony Swinney and his wife Carole of Holton; one daughter Patricia Grote and her husband Pat of Greensburg; grandchildren Keith Swinney and his wife Amber, Brian, Kevin, and Bridget Swinney, Erica and Morgan Grote; one great-granddaughter Autumn Swinney; his mother-in-law Lois Wilhelm Salmon of Versailles; two brothers Edgar Lee Swinney and his wife Ruth Ann of Osgood, Robert Swinney and his wife Carole of Canaan. Mr. Swinney was a 1957 graduate of New Marion High School. He had owned and operated Swinney’s Farm Equipment, which was an International Harvester dealership near Versailles. He also was a farmer, a former salesman for Thurston’s Farm Equipment in Greensburg, and was currently self-employed selling used farm equipment. He was a member of the First Baptist Church in Osgood where he served as a deacon and trustee. He was also a member of the Osgood Lions Club and was recently awarded a Melvin Jones Fellow. Mr. Swinney was a former member of the Jac-Cen-Del School Board and a former board member of the Southeastern Career Center. He was also a member of the National Tractor Puller’s Association. Funeral services will be held Monday, January 2^nd at 10:30am at the First Baptist Church in Osgood with Rev. Bob Harting and Rev. Don Buck officiating. Visitation will be Sunday from 3pm to7pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles. Memorials may be given to the First Baptist Church of Osgood in care of the funeral home.

Evelyn F. Russell, 86, of Milan passed away Wednesday, December 28, 2005 at Ripley Crossing in Milan. She was born near Elrod on November 18, 1919 the daughter of Newton and Florence Stevens Rahe. She was married to William A. Russell and he preceded her in death on February 18, 1971. Survivors include two sons William Russell of Batesville and Doug Russell of Elrod; daughter Rose Ella Duffy of Ellijay, Georgia; eight grandchildren and eleven great-grand. She was preceded in death by her brothers Willard, Alvin, and George Rahe and her sisters Phoebe Lee and Carolyn Dunbar. Mrs. Russell was a homemaker, had formerly worked at Dillsboro Manor, and was a member of the Washington Baptist Church in Elrod. Funeral services will be held Saturday, December 31^st at 10am at the Washington Baptist Church in Elrod with Rev. Bruce Fitzsimmons officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Visitation will be Friday from 5pm to 7pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles. Memorials may be given to the Washington Cemetery or the Washington Baptist Church Missionary Society.

Clarissa L. Westmeier, 23, of Versailles passed away Monday, December 12, 2005 at the Margaret Mary Community Hospital in Batesville. She was born at Columbus on March 31, 1982 the daughter of William and Bennilee Phillips Westmeier. Survivors include her mother Bennilee Westmeier of North Vernon; her father William Westmeier and his wife Mary of Versailles; one brother Aaron Westmeier of Versailles; paternal grandparents Aaron and Geneva Westmeier of Versailles; maternal grandparents Lee and Wanda Phillips of Versailles; step-brother Vince Kieffer and step-sister Vanessa Kieffer both of Versailles; her boy friend Aaron Gorth of Versailles along with several aunts, uncles, and cousins. Clarissa was a 2000 graduate of South Ripley High School and was a community living instructor for Rest Care. Mass of Christian Burial will be Thursday, December 15^that 10am at St. John’s Catholic Church in Osgood with Father Frank Eckstein officiating. Visitation will be Wednesday, December 14^th from 5pm to 8pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Rosary services at 7:30pm. Burial will be in the Cliff Hill Cemetery in Versailles. Memorials may be given to Rescue 69 in care of the funeral home

Carl C. Schroder, 97, of Wilmington, North Carolina, formerly of Pierceville passed away Tuesday December 6, 2005 at the home of his daughter in Wilmington. He was born at Pierceville on September 19, 1908 the son of Christian and Mary Graue Schroder. He was married to Helen McLafferty on October 8,1931 and she preceded him in death on September 12, 2005. Mr. Schroder was a 1926 graduate of Milan High School and had attended Indiana University. He had worked as a machinist in Connersville until the death of his father in 1935 when he returned to Pierceville to manage the store. He and his wife owned and operated Schroder’s Store in Pierceville for 32 years where he also served as postmaster. During the World War II years he worked at Cook’s foundry along with operating the store. Survivors include one daughter Renee Godsey and her husband Robert of Wilmington, North Carolina; one son Roger Schroder and his wife Sue of Indianapolis; granddaughters Christy Miller, Vicki Williams, and Julie Corbett and her husband Ross; grandsons Terry Godsey, Patrick Godsey, Jamie Godsey and his wife Sandra, Kent Schroder and his wife Dana; great-granddaughters Shanna, Emily, Allison, Amanda, Allison, and Olivia; great-grandsons Joshua and his wife Tammi, and Nicholas; great-greatgrandsons Asher and Kylan; many nieces, nephews, family and friends. He was preceded in death by his sisters Irene Strom and Margaret Overbeck. Funeral services will be held Saturday, December 10^th at 11am at St. Peter’s United Church of Christ at Finks Corner with Rev. Karyl Leslie officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Visitation will be Saturday from 9am until time of services. In lieu of flowers memorials may be given to the St. Peters building fund or Ripley Co. Hospice in care of the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles.

John N. Lightfoot, 72, of Osgood passed away Friday, November 25, 2005 at the Heritage House in Greensburg. He was born at McKenzie, Tennessee on December 4, 1932 the son of Noah and Imogene Spivey Lightfoot. He was married to Nadine Jones on September 11, 1954 and she survives. Other survivors include one son Joel Lightfoot and his wife Laura of Brownsburg; three grandchildren Erica Stryczek and her husband Aaron, Brandon Lightfoot, and Jerrica Faulkner. He was preceded in death by his parents and his daughter Lisa. Mr. Lightfoot was a 1950 graduate of Indianapolis Washington High School and had attended the Indiana Business College. He was an Army veteran of the Korean War and had been employed with General Motors in Indianapolis for 23 years. He was a member of the Washington Baptist Church and the Ripley County Gideon's. Funeral services will be held Tuesday, November 29^th at 12pm at the Washington Baptist Church with Rev. Bruce Fitzsimmons officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Visitation will be Tuesday from 10am until time of services at the church. Memorials may be given to the Gideon's. The Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles is in charge of the arrangements.

Rosemary Vanosdol, 68, of Versailles, formerly of Canaan, passed away Thursday, November 24, 2005 at the University Hospital in Cincinnati. She was born at Milan on September 30, 1938 the daughter of Elmer and Edna Pettit Poling. She was married to Albert Vanosdol and he preceded her in death on September 9, 2001. Survivors include two daughters, Rhonda Thieman and her husband Randy of Cross Plains and Rita Vanosdol of Madison; one son Rick Vanosdol of Versailles; five grandchildren and one great-grandchild; two sisters, Sharon Sawyer of Elrod and Jean Sawyer of Hamilton, Ohio. Mrs. Vanosdol was a 1955 graduate of Vevay High School and was a 48 year employee of US Shoe in Vevay. She was a member of the Cross Plains Baptist Church. Funeral services will be held at 11am Monday, November 28^th at 11am at the Cross Plains Baptist Church with Rev. Troy Dean officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Visitation will be Sunday from 3pm to 6pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles. Memorials may be given to the donors choice.

Warren B. (Barney) LaBolt, 85, of the Hopewell community near Holton passed away Monday, November 21, 2005 at the Decatur Memorial Hospital in Greensburg. He was born in the Hopewell community on October 3, 1920 the son of James and Hazel Pickett LaBolt. He was married to Opal Hughes on March 28, 1954 and she survives. Other survivors include two daughters, Mona LaBolt of Holton and Melinda Braley and her husband John of Versailles; grandchildren Chad and Jennifer Zapfe, Sheena and Spencer Braley; one brother David LaBolt of Findlay, Ohio. He was preceded in death by his parents, his daughter Marsha, sister Mary Nineff, and his brothers James LaBolt and Jack LaBolt. Mr. LaBolt was a 1938 graduate of Holton High School and was an Army veteran of WWII. He served in the Aleutian Islands and was awarded the Asiatic-Pacific Theater Ribbon with one bronze star, the Good Conduct Ribbon and the Victory Medal. Mr. LaBolt was a farmer and had spent his entire life in the Hopewell community. He was a member of the Hopewell Baptist Church, the Holton Masonic Lodge, and the Osgood American Legion. He had formerly served as Otter Creek Township Trustee, was a former agent and director of Patrons Mutual Insurance Company, and had served as sexton of the Hopewell Cemetery for several years. In 2001 Mr. LaBolt was awarded the Tom Wallace Farm Forestry Award, the District 4 Charles Deam Forestry Stewardship Award, and was named Historic Hoosier Hills Outstanding Woodland Owner of the year. He was also named Conservation Farmer of the year in 2002 and Master Farm Conservationist in 2004. Funeral services will be held Saturday, November 26^th at 11am at the Hopewell Baptist Church with Rev. David Shivers officiating. Burial will be in the Hopewell Cemetery with military graveside rites by the Osgood American Legion. Visitation will be Friday, November 25^th from 4pm to 8pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Masonic services by the Holton Masonic Lodge at 7:30pm. Memorials may be given to the American Heart Association or the Hopewell Baptist Church building fund.

Ruby E. Ellison, 88, of Chipley, Florida passed away Tuesday, November 15, 2005 at the Washington County Convalescent Center in Chipley. She was born near Pleasant in Switzerland County on June 24, 1917 the daughter of Elmer and Gladys Forwood Konkle. She was married to Russell Ellison in 1935 and he preceded her in death in 2000. Survivors include one son Elvan Ellison and his wife Jean of Chipley, Florida; one daughter Martha Ellison of St. Joseph, Missouri; grandchildren Mark Ellison and his wife Leslie of Fayetteville, North Carolina and Amy Weeks and her husband Joe of Chipley; three great-grandchildren, Ashley and Nathan Dunn and Alex Ellison. Mrs. Ellison was a homemaker and a member of the Sparta Baptist Church. Funeral services will be held Saturday, November 19^th at 10:30am at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Rev. M. Alice Crawford of the Rising Sun United Methodist Church officiating. Burial will be in the Marble Corner Cemetery in Versailles. Visitation will be Saturday from 9:30am until time of services. Memorials may be given to the Rising Sun United Methodist Church organ fund in care of the funeral home.

Neva V. Rea, 85, of Dabney passed away Friday, November 11, 2005 at her residence. She was born near Versailles on April 6, 1920 the daughter of Marshall and Estelle Fox Jackson. She was married to Raymond Laswell on August 19, 1938 and he preceded her in death on January 7, 1943. She was married to Wilcie Rea on June 6, 1953 and he survives. Other survivors include one son Rev. Mearl Laswell and his wife Beverly of Sunrise Beach, Missouri; two daughters, Marilynn Adams and her husband Bob of Reynoldsburg, Ohio and Myrna Cox and her husband Doug of Holton; six grandchildren, Dana Naugle, Kara Ahrens, Kendra Eden, Katy Laswell, Chris Cox, and Kassey Cox; six great-grandchildren; four brothers, Willard Jackson of Versailles, Kenneth Jackson of Osgood, Hubert Jackson and his wife Eva of Versailles, and Marion Jackson and his wife Jaleh of Terre Haute. She was preceded in death by her parents, sisters Ruth Carter and Margaret Jobst, and her grandson Doug Laswell. Mrs. Rea was a homemaker and a member of the Dabney Baptist Church and the Riley Cheer Guild. She was a former employee of the Delaney Wood Heel Factory in Versailles. Funeral services will be held Tuesday, November 15^th at 10:30 am at the Dabney Baptist Church with Rev. Charles Cole and Rev. Mearl Laswell officiating. Burial will be in the Holton Cemetery. Visitation will be Monday, November 14^th from 5pm to 8pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles. Memorials may be given to the Dabney Baptist Church building fund or the Hospice of the Margaret Mary Hospital.

Herbert Grigsby, 77, of Versailles passed away Tuesday, November 1, 2005 at the Kings Daughters Hospital in Madison. He was born at Hazard, Kentucky on December 27, 1927 `the son of Monroe and Susan Noble Grigsby. He was married to Nettie Myers on February 27, 1951 and she survives. Other survivors include three daughters, Onita Stephan and her husband Daniel of Canaan, Valerie Miller and her husband Robby of Hanover, and Debbie Grigsby and her fiancé Rev. Bob Harting of Versailles; grandchildren Tara McKay of Madison, Damon Stephan of Canaan, Karrie Miller of Hanover, and Andrea, Amanda, and Ashli Harting; one brother Lee Grigsby of Versailles and one sister Nona Adams of Fairview. He was preceded in death by his parents, one son Tommy Grigsby, grandson Danny Joe Stephan, brothers Luke, Ned, Alonzo, and Will Grigsby and his sister Burley Grigsby. Mr. Grigsby was a retired farmer. Funeral services will be held Friday, November 4th at 11am at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Rev. Bob Harting of the First Baptist Church in Osgood officiating. Burial will be in the New Marion Cemetery. Visitation will be Thursday, November 3rd from 5pm to 8pm. Memorials may be given to the New Marion Cemetery in care of the funeral home.

John P. Everage, 76, of Louisville, formerly of Versailles passed away Thursday, October 27, 2005 at the VA Medical Center in Louisville. He was born at Hindman in Knott County, Kentucky on July 13, 1929 the son of Aster and Polly Ann Morgan Everage. He was married to Eva Wilson on January 22, 1954 and she survives. Other survivors include three sons John C. Everage and his wife Krista of Santa Monica, California, Brad and Susan of Simpsonville, Kentucky, and Chad and Kelly of Louisville; three daughters Wendy Neill of Cincinnati, Michelle Crawford and her husband Gene of Louisville, and Tracey Schutte and her husband Mike of Charlotte, North Carolina; 12 grandchildren; two brothers Carter Everage and his wife Grace of Milan, and R.C. Everage and his wife Reva of Florida; one sister Elaine Kemker of Milan. He was preceded in death by his parents, one brother and one sister. Mr. Everage was a 1947 graduate of Versailles High School and a 1951 graduate of Purdue University. He served as a fighter pilot in the Air Force during Korea and also taught basic and advanced pilot training. He received the Korean Service Medal, United Nations Service Medal, Air Medal, and the National Defense Service Medal. Mr. Everage was a former high school teacher at Versailles and was a former office manager of the Production Credit Association office in Versailles. He served as vice-president of the Federal Intermediate Credit Bank of Louisville for 16 years and with his wife had owned and operated the Court House Inn in Versailles. He was a member of the Versailles American Legion. Funeral services will be held Monday, October 31^st at 1pm at the Versailles Baptist Church with Rev. Mark Walker officiating. Burial will be in the Cliff Hill Cemetery in Versailles with military graveside rites by the Versailles American Legion. Visitation will be Sunday, October 30^th from 2pm to 5pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles. Memorials may be given to the Versailles American Legion or the Cliff Hill Cemetery in care of the funeral home.

Reta Demaree, 69, of Rexville passed away Tuesday, October 25, 2005 at her residence. She was born at Benham on April 5, 1936 the daughter of Basil and Eva Welch Steele. She was married to Virgil Demaree on January 15, 1954 and he survives. Other survivors include two sons, Carl Demaree and his wife Sandy of Madison, Robin Demaree and his wife Missy of Canaan; one daughter Evie Sanders and her husband Mike of Versailles; 10 grandchildren, 6 great-grandchildren, 5 step-grandchildren, and 5 step-great-grandchildren; two brothers Dale Steele of Fountaintown and Arthur Steele of Lawrenceburg; two sisters Gladys Hayes of Benham and JoAnn Brinson of Versailles. She was preceded in death by her parents and her brothers Albert and Russell Steele. Mrs. Demaree was a 1953 graduate of Versailles High School. She had been employed with the Delaney Wood Heel Factory in Versailles and also with US Shoe in Osgood. She had also worked as a beautician in Madison and Versailles. She was a member of the Versailles Church of Christ and attended the Concord Wesleyan Church. Funeral services will be held Friday, October 28^th at 1pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Rev. Troy Whitham of the Concord Wesleyan Church officiating. Burial will be in the Grandview Memorial Garden near Madison. Visitation will be Thursday from 5pm to 8pm. Memorials may be given to the American Heart Association or the Concord Wesleyan Church in care of the funeral home. Online condolences are available

Paul Hollandsworth, 75, of Sumter, South Carolina passed away Tuesday, October 18, 2005 at the Toumey Hospital in Sumter. He was born at Erlanger, Kentucky on March 3, 1930 the son of Daniel and Dorothy Wilson Hollandsworth. He was married to Edythe Franklin of Holton on December 22, 1951 and she survives. Other survivors include two sisters, Helen Shockley of Erlanger and Ruth Barlow of Florence, Kentucky. Mr. Hollandsworth was a 28 year Air Force veteran where he retired as a Senior Master Sergeant. He served in various places throughout the world including Texas, Nevada, Nebraska, South Carolina, Florida, England, Japan, and Vietnam. He was a member of the Hillcrest Masonic Lodge in Dalzell, South Carolina and the Columbia, South Carolina Consistory Scottish Rite. Funeral services will be held Saturday, October 22^nd at 10am at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Rev. Bob Harting of the First Baptist Church in Osgood officiating. Visitation will be Friday from 6pm to 8pm with Masonic services at 7:30pm. Burial will be in the Hopewell Cemetery with military graveside rites by the Versailles American Legion. Memorials may be made to the Shriners Crippled Childrens Home in care of the funeral home.

Guy Pollard, 76, of Pierceville passed away Tuesday, October 11,2005 at the Christ Hospital in Cincinnati. He was born at Lockland, Ohio on March 4, 1929 the son of Estol and Cordelia Burk Pollard. He was married to Joan Walke on March 24, 1951 and she preceded him in death on May 2, 2000. Survivors include one son Gary Pollard and his wife Michelle of Indianapolis; three daughters, Kathie Thornton and her husband Jerry of Pierceville, Kim Roberts and her husband Mark of Little Rock, Arkansas, and Tammy Day of Daytona Beach; nine grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren; two brothers, William Pollard of California and Ken Pollard of Cincinnati; one sister Dorothy Gutzwiller of Cincinnati. Besides his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by his daughter Pam Smith. Mr. Pollard was a veteran of WWII where he served as a flight surgeon attendant in the Army Air Corp. He was a retired production supervisor for American Radionic in Palm Coast, Florida. Funeral services will be held at the convenience of the family. The Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles is in charge of arrangements

Adah Ehlers, 92, of Versailles passed away Thursday, October 6, 2005 at the Waters of Ross Manor in Dillsboro. She was born near Holton on May 20, 1913 the daughter of Robert and Mamie Platt Cole. She was married to Estol Ehlers on February 14, 1945 and he preceded her in death on August 24, 1974. Survivors include two sons, Marvin Ehlers of Versailles and Robert Ehlers and his wife Peg also of Versailles; three grandsons, Aaron, Joseph, and Shawn Ehlers and three great-grandchildren. Besides her husband she was preceded in death by her parents, her sister Mildred Werner and her brother Omer Cole. Mrs. Ehlers was a 1930 graduate of Holton High School and graduated from Central Normal Teachers College in Danville. She started her teaching career in a one room school house at St. Magdalene near New Marion. She had also taught at Napoleon, Holton, Versailles, Moores Hill, and retired from Dillsboro. She was a member of the Shelby Christian Church, Correct Homemakers Club, and the Ripley County Retired Teachers. Mrs. Ehlers was also a licensed beautician and during WWII worked as a “Rosie the Riveter” at Camp Atterbury. Graveside services will be held Saturday, October 15^th at 10am at the Cliff Hill Cemetery in Versailles with Pastor Marcus Felde of the St. Paul Lutheran Church in Olean officiating. Memorials may be given to the Cliff Hill Cemetery. The Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles is in charge of arrangements.

Nadah Holman, 81, of Versailles passed away Monday, October 3, 2005 at the Manderley Health Care Center in Osgood. She was born at Oolitic, Indiana on January 3, 1924 the daughter of A. J. and Huldah Edens Meadows. She was married to Kenneth Holman on February 14, 1942 and he survives. Other survivors include two daughters, Diane Meisberger and her husband John of New Marion and Ellen Baugh and her husband Lester of Seymour; four grandchildren, Stacy Holdsworth and her husband Brian of Zionsville, Jason Meisberger and Becky of Greenwood, Kara Patrick and Derek of Seymour, and Kristen Baugh of Bloomington; one great-granddaughter Jocelyn Holdsworth; two sisters Doris Murray of Brownsburg and Ilene King of Versailles. She was preceded in death by her parents, her brothers John and Virgil Meadows, and her sisters Donetta Heacock, Rosamond Waters, Lucille Newhart, and Lorene Ehlers. Mrs. Holman was a 1942 graduate of Holton High School and was a member of the Shelby Christian Church. She had formerly worked at a canning factory in Sheridan and was a cook at Madison State Hospital. She had also been employed with Conn Organ and Maucher Real Estate. She enjoyed reading and cross words. Her family enjoyed her baking specialties of breads and cobblers. She was a seasoned gardner and canned or froze the harvest to share with family and friends. She loved quilting and made them for all of her children and grandchildren and later in life enjoyed bird watching. She touched many with her love and talents. Funeral services will be held at the convenience of the family with Bro. Earl Thomas officiating. Visitation will be held Wednesday, October 5^th from 5pm to 7pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles. Burial will be in the Shelby Cemetery. Memorials may be given to the Jennings County Hospice.

Roy (Rabbit) Hardebeck, 85, of Osgood passed away Wednesday, September 21, 2005 at the St. Vincent Jennings Hospital in North Vernon. He was born near Osgood on December 1, 1920 the son of Albert and Clara Kelley Hardebeck. Survivors include one brother Leo Hardebeck of Napoleon; two sisters Ruth Cole of Holton and Diana Shelton of Norfolk, Arkansas along with several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his brothers Charles and Danny Lee Hardebeck and his sisters Hope Haredebeck, Colleen Elston, Vivian Sutton, and Jeanette Kluemper. Mr.Hardebeck was formerly employed with Schuerman Farms at Osgood and had been a logger with Ben Fangman in Osgood. Funeral services will be held Monday, September 26^th at 2pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles. Visitation will be Monday from 1pm until time of services. Burial will be in the Greendale Cemetery at Osgood. Memorials may be given to the Holton Christian Church in care of the funeral home.

Ann Ruggles, 84, of Versailles passed away Wednesday, September 21, 2005 at the Margaret Mary Hospital in Batesville. She was born near Grayson in Boyd County, Kentucky on March 18, 1921 the daughter of Edward and Celia Nolan Fryer. She was married to Herbert Ruggles on August 26, 1944 and he survives. Other survivors include two sons, Virgil Ruggles and his wife Carol J. Ruggles of Osgood, Donald Ruggles and his wife Carol A. Ruggles of Lincoln City, Indiana; two daughters, Kathy Bohlander and her husband Bruce of Avon, and Janie Grigsby and Willie of Versailles; thirteen grandchildren and eleven great-grand; one brother Jim Fryer of Pierceville; four sisters, Maudie Morgan and Katherine Elliott both of Tampa, Florida, Theresa Selke of Kokomo, and Josie Johnson of Napoleon. She was preceded in death by her parents, her brother Leonard Fryer and her sisters Goldie Lee, Lucille Broughtman, Lois Hudson, and Hazel Fryer. Mrs. Ruggles was a homemaker and a member of the Cedar Creek Community Church. Funeral services will be held Sunday, September 25^th at 3pm at the Cedar Creek Community Church with Rev. Garland Rudd officiating. Visitation will be Sunday from 1pm until time of services at the church. Burial will be in the Cliff Hill Cemetery in Versailles. Memorials may be given to the Cliff Hill Cemetery in care of the funeral home.

Howard N. Mitchell, 74, of Versailles passed away Thursday, September 15, 2005 at the VA Hospital in Louisville. He was born at Ligon, Kentucky on July 29, 1931 the son of G. Dewey and Catherine Tackett Mitchell. He was married to Lola Newsome on September 19, 1951 and she survives. Other survivors include three daughters, Donetta Benham and her husband Jim of Benham, Melissa Dunagan and Kurt of Benham, and Angela Sharp and Gene of Milan; five grandchildren, Melanie Evans, Christina Moore, and Kimberly Benham all of Benham, Tammy Witte of Dillsboro, and Stephanie Roberts of Lawrenceburg; five great-grandchildren; one brother, Claude Mitchell of Ligonier; two sisters, Etta Gluba of Iowa City, Iowa, and Maudine Caudill of Prestonburg, Kentucky. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brothers Toy and Lloyd Mitchell. Mr. Mitchell was a veteran of the Korean War. In May of 1950 he was shipped to Okinawa for occupation duty with the 29^th Infantry. On October 9, 1950 he was wounded while serving in the Puson Perimeter and was awarded the Purple Heart. He was a member of the Versailles American Legion where he served as commander in 1976, Milan VFW, Versailles F&AM #7, Indianapolis Valley Scottish Rite, York Rite, and the Murat Shrine. Mr. Mitchell had been a manager of Cuzzin Jacks Discount Store in Versailles for several years. Funeral services will be held Sunday, September 18^th at 2pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles. Burial will be in the Benham Cemetery with military graveside rites by the Versailles American Legion. Visitation will be Saturday, September 17^th from 4pm to 8pm with Masonic services at 7:30pm. Memorials may be given to the Versailles Fire Department or Rescue 69 in care of the funeral home.

Gladys R. Foster, 87, of Holton passed away Tuesday, September 6, 2005 at the Kings Daughters Hospital in Madison. She was born at Piner, Kentucky on May 22, 1918 the daughter of William and Sophia Carter Peebles. She was married to Samuel Foster on April 22, 1977 and he preceded her in death on January 29, 2003. Mrs. Foster is survived by one brother, Jewell Peebles of Burlington, Kentucky; two sisters Pauline Britt of Versailles and Eleanora Springer of Indianapolis. She was also preceded in death by her parents, her brother Virgil Peebles, and her sisters Geraldine Bruce, Emmaline Peebles, Bonnie June Patrick, and Evelyn Nuxoll. Mrs. Foster was a 1937 graduate of Versailles High School. She was a WWII veteran where she served with the WAAC. She was awarded the Victory Medal, American Theater Ribbon, Good Conduct Medal, and the WAAC Service Ribbon. She was a secretary at Jefferson Proving Ground retiring in 1978. Funeral services will be held Saturday, September 10^th at 10am at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Rev. David Blazier officiating. Burial will be in the Cliff Hill Cemetery in Versailles. Military graveside services will be given by the Versailles American Legion. Visitation will be Friday from 6pm to 8pm. Memorials may be given to the Holton Masonic Lodge or the donors choice.

Francis M. Hensley, 65, of Milan passed away Saturday, September 3, 2005 at the Methodist Hospital in Indianapolis. He was born near Manchester in Clay County, Kentucky on September 25, 1939 the son of Ed and Mabel Bowling Hensley. He was married to Norma Crowley on March 15, 1963 and she survives. Other survivors include one son David Hensley and his wife Barbara, one daughter Charlotte Norman and her husband Doug all of Milan; five grandchildren; three brothers Huey Hensley and Ed Hensley both of Milan, and Marvin Hensley of Pikeville, Kentucky; four sisters Mary Arnett of Frankfort, Kentucky, Sharon Hoskins of Manchester, Kentucky, Connie Hoskins, and Mayme Hampton both of Milan. He was preceded in death by his parents, his son Eddie, one sister and one brother. Mr. Hensley was retired from Batesville Casket and was currently teaching Biology at the Cavehill Christian Academy. He was a member of the Cavehill Church of God and was a fifteen year member of the Ripley County Camp of Gideon’s International. Funeral services will be held Wednesday, September 7^th at the Cavehill Church of God with Bro. Pearl Cornett officiating. Burial will be in the Craven Cemetery in Milan Visitation will be Tuesday, September 6^th from 4pm to 8pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles. Memorials may be given to the Gideons in care of the funeral home.

Dorothea Curry Cromer, 82, of Osgood passed away Thursday, September 1, 2005 at the St. Elizabeth Ann Seaton Hospital in Carmel. She was born near Versailles on November 16, 1922 the daughter of Clyde and Mabel Armstrong Curry. She was married to C. Tom Cromer and he survives. Other survivors include two daughters Carolyn Brown and her husband William of Greensburg and Patricia Coker of Bushnell, Florida; four grandchildren Barry Brown of Lawrenceburg, Terri Evans of Greensburg, Dena Vaughn of Butlerville, and Mark Hayden of North Vernon; six great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchildren; one brother Robert Curry of North Vernon; one sister Jo Westmeyer of Versailles. She was preceded in death by her parents, her grandson Curtis Hayden, brother Halstead Curry, and her sisters Isabelle Heidorn and Clara Belle Vestal. Mrs. Cromer worked at Ma Curry’s Restaurant in Versailles and retired from US Shoe in Osgood. Funeral services will be held Monday, September 5^th at 2pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Rev. Charles Wilfong officiating. Burial will be in the Cliff Hill Cemetery in Versailles. Visitation will be Monday from 12pm until time of services. Memorials may be given to the Heart Fund or the Cliff Hill Cemetery in care of the funeral home.

Helen M. Baldwin, 96, of Zenas passed away Wednesday, August 31, 2005 at her residence. She was born near Westport in Decatur County on June 3, 1909 the daughter of Jessie “Abe” and Anna Hilbert Ponsler. She was married to Denver H. Baldwin on December 21, 1929 and he preceded her in death in 1994. Survivors include one son Marvin Baldwin and his wife Alberta of Zenas; one daughter Carol Sporleder Stratton of Holton; grandchildren Lt. Col. Richard Baldwin and his wife Mary of Altus, Oklahoma, Ronald Baldwin and Elaine of Austin, Texas, and Robin Walderhaug and Mark of Silver Springs, Marlyland, David Sporleder and his wife Mickey, Dwayne Sporleder and Patty, and Donald Sporleder and Robin, all of North Vernon; 12 great-grandchildren, two great-great grandchildren, four step-grandchildren, eleven step great grandchildren, and five step great-great grandchildren; one brother Harlace Ponsler of North Vernon. Besides her husband she was preceded in death by her parents, sons-in-law Paul Sporleder and Leslie Stratton, Sr., grandchildren Catheryn Marie Baldwin and Daryl Dean Sporleder, step grandson Leslie Scott Stratton; brothers Harry Ponsler and H.Harold Ponsler, and her sisiter Hazel Ponsler. Mrs. Baldwin was a 1927 graduate of Zenas High School and had been an active member of the Zenas Baptist Church since 1929. She was a homemaker, charter member of the Columbia Extension Homemakers Club and was also a member of the Jennings County Farm Bureau. She was a local artist and a former 4-H leader. Funeral services will be held Saturday, September 3^rd at 11am at the Zenas Baptist Church with Rev. Jack Suits and Rev. Charles Cole officiating. Burial will be in the Rock Creek Cemetery near Westport. Visitation will be Friday, September 2^nd from 4pm to 8pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles and also from 10am until time of services Saturday at the church . Memorials may be given to the Hospice of South Central Indiana or the Zenas Baptist Church in care of the funeral home.

Carl W. Bryant, Jr., 61, of Versailles passed away Saturday, August 27, 2005 at his residence. He was born at Lexington, Kentucky on August 30, 1943 the son of Carl and Dorothy Bruce Bryant. He was married to Pamela Long on May 28, 1963 and she survives. Other survivors include one daughter Jacqueline H. Bryant of Versailles; one son Jaime Bryant of Osgood; grandchildren Amanda Bryant, Audriana Bryant, and Rachel Dolerhie; one sister Pamela Woodruff of Batavia. Mr. Bryant was a machinist for Setco Industries in Cincinnati. He was a member of the Shelby Christian Church and was a veteran of the Vietnam War. Funeral services will be held at the convenience of the family. The Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home of Versailles is in charge of arrangements.

Ada Morris, 68, of Versailles passed away Thursday, August 25, 2005 at the Kings Daughters Hospital in Madison. She was born at Dillsboro on September 12, 1936 the daughter of Hubert and Ethel Kohlerman Mathias. She was married to Kenneth Morris on December 22, 1957 and he survives. Other survivors include her mother Mrs. Ethel Mathias of Versailles; one son Philip Morris of Pikeville, Tennessee; two daughters Elizabeth Ann Saffran of Chersterton, Indiana and Catherine Hamm of Batesville; nine grandchildren and one great grandchild; one brother Donald Mathias of Dillsboro. Mrs. Morris was a 1954 graduate of Dillsboro High School and a 1958 graduate of Ball State University. She was a home economics teacher in Chicago Heights for several years. She was a member of the Tyson United Methodist Church and the Ross Run Chapter of the DAR. Funeral services will be held Sunday, August 28^th at 2pm at the Tyson United Methodist Church with Rev. Michael Hendrix officiating. Burial will be in the Holton Cemetery. Visitation will be Saturday, August 27^th from 6pm to 8pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles. Memorials may be given to the Tyson United Methodist Church in care of the funeral home.

Ola Vae Simon, 65, of Osgood passed away Thursday, August 18, 2005 at her residence. She was born March 13, 1940 at Line Fork in Letcher County, Kentucky the daughter of Lou and Arnie Caudill Roark. She was married to Donald Simon on August 13, 1958 and he survives. Other survivors include three sons, James Simon and his wife Cindy, Wayne and Brenda, and Vincent and Krystal all of Osgood; five daughters Karen Carroll and her husband H.B., Shirley England all of Osgood, Donna Sparks and Lonnie of Holton, Barbie Bultman and Ryan of Greensburg, and Dana and Mark Montgomery of Aurora; five brothers Harley Roark and Jim Roark both of Holton, John Roark of Greensburg, Joe Roark of Osgood, and Mark Roark of Whitesburg, Kentucky; half-brother Richard Leach of Madison; five sisters Anna Mae Ahaus of Guilford, Eula Sizemore of Madison, Bonnie Kieffer and Georgia Sparks both of Osgood, and Thelma Osborne of East Enterprise; four half-sisters Lola Woods and Bonita Halcomb both of Kentucky, Tina Wingate of Pleasant, and Martha Hammond of Canaan; 22 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, granddaughter Chelsa Simon and her sister Dana Craig. Mrs. Simon was a homemaker and a member of St. John’s Catholic Church in Osgood. Mass of Christian Burial will be held Tuesday, August 23^rd at 10am at St. John’s Catholic Church in Osgood with Fr. Frank Eckstein officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Visitation will be Monday, August 22^nd from 5pm to 8pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Rosary services at 7:30pm. Memorials may be given to the donor’s choice.

Erma Jean Sizemore, 79, of St. Cloud, Florida, formerly of Holton passed away Wednesday, August 17, 2005 at Orlando Regional Hospital in Orlando, Florida. She was born at Manchester, Kentucky on August 29, 1925 the daughter of Roscoe and Ollie Mae Fraley Sparks. She was married to John Sizemore October 16, 1943 and he preceded her in death on May 2, 1998. Survivors include two sons, Johnny Sizemore of Holton and Tony Sizemore of St. Cloud, Florida; one daughter Charlotte Davis of Kissimmee, Florida; four grandchildren and six great-grandchildren; one sister Irene Reed of Manchester, Kentucky. She was also preceded in death by her son Glenn Sizemore, her parents, and her sisters Ina White and Evelyn Keith. Mrs. Sizemore was a homemaker and had owned and operated with her husband Sizemore’s Service Center in Holton for several years. Funeral services will be held Monday, August 22^nd at 11am at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Rev. Mark Walker of the Versailles Baptist Church officiating. Visitation will be Sunday, August 21^st from 5pm to 8pm. Burial will be in the Holton Cemetery. Memorials may be given to the Holton United Methodist Church in care of the funeral home.

Ernest Jones, 60, of Versailles passed away Wednesday, August 17, 2005 at the Kings Daughters Hospital in Madison. He was born at Barboursville, Kentucky on September 1, 1944 the son of John and Phema Grills Jones. He was married to Sharon Edwards on March 30, 1985 and she survives. Other survivors include one son Darrell Jones of Elrod; one daughter Linda Fox of Versailles; one step-son Timothy Sides and his wife Heather of Versailles; four grandchildren and four great-grandchildren; two brothers Clofus Jones of Versailles and Grover Jones of Pleasant; four sisters Ethel Mills of Versailles, Hazel Randolph and Bessie Clipp both of Jeffersonville, and Flora Cooper of North Carolina. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brothers Arnold, Otis, Shelby, Clifton, and Garnett Jones and his sisters Effie Day and Thelma Jones. Mr. Jones was a self employed carpenter and was a member of the Carpenters Local Union at Charlestown. He was a 1962 graduate of Cross Plains High School and was a member of the Osgood Masonic Lodge. Funeral services will be Saturday, August 20^th at 11am at the Stratton- Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Rev. Garland Rudd of the Cedar Creek Community Church officiating. Visitation will be Friday, August 19^th from 5pm to 8pm with Masonic services at 7:30pm. Burial will be in the Cliff Hill Cemetery in Versailles. Memorials may be given to St. Jude’s Research Center or to the Cedar Creek Community Church in care of the funeral home. Online condolences may be made at skfuneralhome.com.

Cleo Baker Smith, 83, of New Marion, formerly of Carthage, Texas, passed away Tuesday, August 9, 2005 at the Hospice of South Central Indiana in Columbus. She was born at Quail, Texas on February 17, 1922 the daughter of John and Donnie O’Hair Sorrell. Survivors include one son Jimmie Smith and his wife Brenda of New Marion; one daughter Caroletta Baize of Carthage, Texas; two grandchildren, Kenny Monk of Gilmore, Texas and Terri Peerenboom of Ruidoso, New Mexico. Mrs. Smith was a former bookkeeper and beautician. She was a member of the Carthage, Texas First United Methodist Church. Funeral services will be held Friday, August 12^th at 2pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Rev. Charles Cole officiating. Burial will be in the New Marion Cemetery. Visitation will be Friday from 1pm until time of services. Memorials may be given to the New Marion Cemetery in care of the funeral home.

Victor Pickett, 85, of Correct passed away Saturday, August 6, 2005 at the Kings Daughters Hospital in Madison. He was born at Correct on April 10, 1920 the son of Edward and Esty Hyatt Pickett and had spent his entire life on his home place. He was married to Ruth Graves on June 23, 1945 and she survives. Other survivors include two sons, Richard Pickett and his wife Tammy of Olean, David Pickett and his wife Ellen of Pendleton; one daughter Susan Craig and her husband Joe of Madison; grandchildren Jeffery, William, Samuel, and Joseph Pickett, Jennifer Smith, Patrick and Benjamin Craig. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Joel Pickett and his sisters Lucy Pickett and Evelyn Lewis. Mr. Pickett was a retired farmer and was employed with Cummins from 1966 to 1986 where he worked as a machinist. He also had owned and operated a milk truck which he contracted milk hauling for Nestles in Osgood. He was a member of the New Marion Baptist Church. Funeral services will be held Wednesday, August 10^th at 11am at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Bro. Earl Thomas officiating. Burial will be in the Cliff Hill Cemetery in Versailles. Visitation will be Tuesday, August 9^th from 5pm to 8pm at the funeral home. Memorials may be given to the Parsonage fund of the New Marion Baptist Church in care of the funeral home.

Tom Bush, 73, of West Harrison passed away Friday August 5, 2005 at his residence. He was born at Campton in Wolfe County, Kentucky on August 5, 1932 the son of William and Dollie Alexander Bush. He was married to Faye Barrett who preceded him in death on December 18, 1989. He then married Audrey Spence on August 6, 1990 and she survives. Other survivors include one son Travis Bush and his wife Debbie of Petersburg, Kentucky; one daughter Jan Haag and her husband Gordon of Harrison, Ohio; four grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren; one brother Glenn Bush of Holton. He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Ernestine Bush and his brothers Bill and Kenneth Bush. Mr. Bush was a retired forklift operator for DuBois Chemical and was a 36 year member of the AFL-CIO. Funeral services will be held Monday, August 8^th at 1pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Bro. Bob Shetler officiating. Burial will be in the Holton Cemetery. Visitation will be from 11am Monday until time of services. Memorials may be given to the American Cancer Society in care of the funeral home.

Selma R. Walsh, 91, of Holton passed away Thursday August 4, 2005 at the Dearborn County Hospital in Lawrenceburg. She was born at Holton on March 24, 1914 the daughter of Charles and Mayme Wright Stagg. She was married to Walter Walsh and he preceded her in death on November 7, 1981. Survivors include one son Dennis Walsh and his wife Bonnie and one daughter Janet Mack and her husband Travis all of Holton; three grandchildren, Kevin Mack of Anderson, Rhonda Tunny of Holton, and Terri Shelton of Pendleton; three great-grandchildren and two great-great grandchildren; one sister Mrs. Madge McClure of Martinsville. Besides her husband she was preceded in death by her parents, one brother Ralph Stagg and her grandson Scott Walsh. Mrs. Walsh was a 1932 graduate of Holton High School and was a homemaker. She had previously been employed with McNeelan’s Hardware in Holton and had worked as an attendant at Muscatatuck State Hospital. She had also worked as a Ripley County Deputy Auditor to her husband who was serving as Ripley County Auditor. Mrs. Walsh was a member of the Holton Christian Church and the Mother’s Class. Funeral services will be held Saturday, August 6^th at 10:30am at the Holton Christian Church with Rev. Robert McCreary officiating. Burial will be in the Holton Cemetery. Visitation will be Friday, August 5^th from 5pm to 8pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles. Memorials may be given to the Holton Christian Church in care of the funeral home.

Walter H. Busch, 82, of Osgood passed away Monday, August 1, 2005 at the Christ Hospital in Cincinnati. He was born near Osgood on August 19, 1922 the son of Henry and Mary Neihouse Busch. He was married to Annabelle Fry on April 14, 1947 and she survives. Other survivors include two sons, William Busch and his wife Melodie of Osgood and Robert Busch and his wife Mary of Batesville; one daughter, Barbara Elliott and her husband Jeff of Indianapolis; seven grandchildren, Eric, Angie, Ryan, Michael, and David Busch and Brian and Matt Elliott; one sister, Mrs. Ethel Stegemoller of Versailles. He was preceded in death by his parents, his granddaughter Carrie Busch, and his sister Esther Dean. Mr. Busch was a 1940 graduate of Osgood High School and had farmed his entire life. He was a member of St. Peter’s United Church of Christ at Finks Corner and also the Ripley County Farm Bureau. He had formerly worked as a tobacco base measurer for the ASC. Funeral services will be held Friday, August 5^th at 10:30am at St. Peter’s United Church of Christ with Rev. Carol Leslie officiating. Burial will be in St. John’s Catholic Cemetery in Osgood. Visitation will be Thursday, August 4^th from 5pm to 8pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles. Memorials may be given to St. Peter’s United Church of Christ building fund or to the foundation for Parkinsons Disease Research.

William S. Corning, 84, of Versailles passed away Monday August 1, 2005 at the Kings Daughters Hospital in Madison. He was born at Elmira, New York on May 31, 1921 the son of Roland and Martha Ann McKinney Corning. He was married to Barbara Travis on August 11, 1945 and she survives. Other survivors include two brothers R. Daniel Newhouse of New Orleans and E. Alan Newhouse of Urbana, Illinois. He was preceded in death by his parents and his son Roland Corning. Mr. Corning was a 1939 graduate of Lawrenceburg High School and was a 60 year member of the Lawrenceburg Masonic Lodge. He had attended Purdue University and was a member of the Purdue Alumni Association and the President’s Council of Purdue. Mr. Corning served in the Army Air Force during WWII as a supply Sergeant with the Engineering Corps. He was a retired sales supervisor for Stegner Foods and had also worked as a sales representative for General Foods. Mr. Corning was a member of the Hamline United Methodist Church in Lawrenceburg, the Versailles Lions Club, and the Versailles American Legion. He was currently serving on the SWCD board of directors, the board for Hoosier Historic Hills, and was a former board member of Oxbow Inc. in Cincinnati. He was also a charter member of the Muscatatuck Wildlife Refuge. Funeral services will be held at the convenience of the family with burial in the Cliff Hill Cemetery in Versailles. The Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home of Versailles is in charge of arrangements. Memorials may be given to the Roland S. Corning Memorial Fund for the Purdue University School of Civil Engineering in care of the funeral home.

Mildred Andress, 90, of Versailles passed away Saturday, July 30, 2005 at Ripley Crossing in Milan. She was born in the St. Magdalene community near New Marion on August 1, 1914 the daughter of Matthew and Stella Daffin Stark. She was married to Cecil Andress on October 10, 1931 and he preceded her in death on May 14, 1994. Survivors include one son Larry G. Andress and his wife Rita of Madison; one daughter LaVerne Day and her husband Dale of Versailles; seven grandchildren, Brandon Andress and his wife Jenny of Columbus, Kasey Felts and her husband Dan of Madison, Whiteny Ulm and Josh of Middleport, Ohio, Debra Stephen and J.R., Dawna Mathews and Keith, Dana Vest and James, and Danita Rogers and Bryant all of Versailles; + 17 great-grandchildren, and seven great-great grandchildren. Besides her husband she was preceded in death by her parents and her daughter Judy Kay Andress. Mrs. Andress was a homemaker and she and her husband had spent most of their married life on a farm near New Marion. She was a faithful member of the Versailles Church of Christ. Funeral services will be held Wednesday, August 3^rd at 10:30am at the Versailles Church of Christ with Dale Day officiating. Burial will be in the Cliff Hill Cemetery in Versailles. Visitation will be Tuesday, August 2^nd from 5pm to 8pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles. Memorials may be given to the Versailles Church of Christ in care of the funeral home.

Mary E. Kelly, 91, of Versailles, formerly of Elrod passed away Tuesday, July 26, 2005 at the Jennings Health Care Center in North Vernon. She was born at Allensville in Switzerland County on September 8, 1913 the daughter of Val Fred Myers and Ollie Fancher Myers. She was married to Myron Kelly on March 28, 1942 and he preceded her in death on September 4, 1997. Survivors include one son, Robert Kelly and his wife Glenda of Scipio; one grandson Brian Kelly of Scipio; one sister Pauline Richards of Vevay. Besides her husband she was preceded in death by her parents, brother George Wm. Myers; her sisters Elma Voris, Mildred Etherton, and Ruth Koons. Mrs. Kelly was a member of the Versailles Baptist Church. She was a homemaker and a former employee of the Milan Furniture Factory and US Shoe. Funeral services will be held Thursday, July 28^th at 11am at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Rev. Mark Walker officiating. Visitation will be Wednesday, July 27^th from 5pm to 7pm. Burial will be in the Oakdale Cemetery in Dillsboro. Memorials may be given to the Versailles Baptist Church in care of the funeral home.

Sylvia L. Asher, 60, of Louisville passed away Monday, July 04, 2005 at the Norton Southwest Hospital in Louisville. She was born in Cincinnati on July 20, 1944 the daughter of Roy and Elizabeth Begley Adkins. Ms. Asher is survived by her fiancee Johnny Lomax; four daughters; Betsy Asher Faulkner and her husband Larry (Shorty) of Rexville, Joyce Box and her fiancée James Seal of New Washington, Marsha Davis and her husband Norman of Chelsa, and Robyn Adcock and her husband Ken of Taylorsville, Kentucky; nine grandchildren and six great-grandchildren; two sisters, Sue Carol Myers of Milan and Betty Albin of Colorado Springs; five brothers, Houston Walker of Hebron, Kentucky, Chester Walker of Rexville, John Walker of Oklahoma City, Frank Walker of Versailles, and Donald Bowman of Lake Cumberland, Kentucky. She was preceded in death by her parents, her sister Elvira Kilgore, and her brother Tim Hagemann. Ms. Asher was a grill cook at Mike Linning’s Restaurant in Louisville and was a member of the Shelby Christian Church. Funeral services will be held Friday, July 8^th at 10am at the Shelby Christian Church with Randy Thieman officiating. Burial will be in the Shelby Cemetery. Visitation will be Thursday, July 7^th from 3pm to 8pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home. Memorials may be given to the Heart Fund or the Kentucky Humane Society in care of the funeral home at box 84 Versailles, IN 47042.

Earl E. Ballard, 71, of Versailles passed away Sunday, July 03, 2005 at the Christ Hospital in Cincinnati. He was born at Madison on March 11, 1934 the son of Lawrence and Georgia Amos Ballard. He was married to Helen Holaway and she survives. Other survivors include two sons, Eddie Ballard of Simpsonville, South Carolina and Robert Ballard of Versailles; one daughter Kathy Ballard of Versailles; two brothers Paul Ballard of Florence and Thomas Ballard of Rising Sun; half-brother Louis Coy of Cincinnati and half-sister Lois Konkle of Somerset, Kentucky. He was preceded in death by his parents and his son Michael. Mr. Ballard was a retired equipment operator for Cincinnati Building Supply. Graveside services will be held Tuesday, July 5^th at 2pm at the Cliff Hill Cemetery in Versailles. Visitation will be Tuesday at 1pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles. Memorials may be given to the donors choice.

Evelyn Smith, 94, of Versailles, died Sunday, June 26, 2005 at Hickory Creek Nursing Home, Madison. She was born March 11, 1911 in Benham, the daughter of Charles and Dora (McCoy) Ehlers, both deceased. She married Chancey Smith on October 21, 1937 and he preceded her in death on July 9, 1960. Survivors include two sons, Lamar and Mary Buchanan Smith of Versailles, Dennis and Barbara Smith of Madison; three grandchildren and four great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by one daugther, Jean McLean on May 20, 1996 and one brother Gilmore and one sister, Helen Smith. She was a homemaker and a member of the Benham United Methodist Church and the Correct Homemakers Club. Visitation will be held Thursday, June 30, 9-11 a.m. at the Benham United Methodist Church. Funeral services will follow at 11 a.m. at the church. Burial will be in the Benham Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Benham Cemetery or the Versailles Volunteer Fire Department. Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home, Versailles is in charge of the arrangements.

Hildegard (Hilde) Pollard, 73, of Versailles, passed away Sunday, June 26, 2005 at her residence. She was born September 3, 1931 in Susan, Germany, the daughter of Gotthilf and Babbette Beuttenmueller, both deceased. She married William 'Bill' Pollard on June 11, 1956 in Speicher, Germany and he survives. Other survivors include three sons, Bill Pollard, Jr., Rick Pollard, Ron Pollard; one daughter, Regina 'Gina' Pollard, all of Versailles; two brothers, Vernon Beuttenmueller and Albert Beuttenmueller of Germany and seven grandchildren. Two brothers and one sister preceded her in death. Mr. and Mrs. Pollard moved to Versailles in May of 1971 after husband, William retired from the Airforce after 20 years of service. They purchased what was then called the Gayway and renamed it Pollard's Bowl. She ran the youth program at the bowl for 34 years where she was a certified coach. She was a member of the Legion Auxiliary of Versailles and charter member of the Moose in Osgood. Visitation will be held today, Tuesday, June 28, 4-8 p.m. at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home, Versailles. The Leora Weare Unit #173 Auxiliary will hold services at 7:30 p.m. Funeral services will be held Wednesday, June 29, 10 a.m. at the funeral home with Brother Randy Thieman officiating. Burial will be in the Grandview Memorial Gardens, Madison. Memorials may be given to the Shelby Christian Church.

Katherine Hoffman Burton, 60, of Cross Plains, passed away Monday, June 20, at her residence. She was born September 1, 1944, at Cross Plains, the daughter of Harold Melton Sr. and Emma Mae Cooper Melton. She was married to George Burton, on June 12, 2004, and he survives. Other survivors include a daughter Tracy Hoffman Wood and husband Robert of Cross Plains; a son William "Bill" Hoffman and wife Shauna of cross Plains, five grandchildren; Erika and B.J. Wood; Billy, Jenna and Regan Hoffman; a sister, Marie Jolly of Versailles: nieces and nephews: Billy and Jeff Melton, Debra Lynn Woodfield, Pamela Bressert, Brenda Vaughn, and Mark McClure. She was preceded in death by her two brothers: Harold Melton Jr. and Lee Allen Melton and a nephew, Michael Lee Melton. Mrs. Hoffman was a delegate for the Republican State Convention, and Precinct Committeeman for Brown Township. She was a member of the Cross Plains Church of Christ. She was employed at the Dearborn County Hospital and King's Daughters' Hospital as a nurse’s aid. She worked at Ripley Publishing Company as the Advertising Manager from 1985 until 2004, when she retired. Visitation will be held June 23, from 4-7 p.m. at the Stratton - Karsteter Funeral Home, Versailles. Funeral Services will be held Friday, June 24, at 10:30 a.m. at the Cross Plains Church of Christ with Logan Fugate and Randy Thieman officiating. Burial will be in the Salem Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the family or the donor's choice in care of the funeral home.

Judy A. Hall, 50, of Milan passed away Thursday, June 16, 2005 at her residence. She was born at Indianapolis on July 19, 1954 the daughter of Don and Julia Patricia Grimes Gastino. She was married to Gary Hall on June 19, 1976 and he survives. Other survivors include her daughters Jennifer L. Hall of Indianapolis and Elizabeth “Liz” Hall of Milan; her parents Don and Pat Gastino of Indianapolis; her father and mother-in-law Clay and Audrey Hall of Milan; one brother Donnie Gastino of Mooresville; four sisters, Paula McCullough and her husband Bill of Mooresville, Donna Markowitz and her husband Wes of Winston-Salem, North Carolina, Kim Miller of Indianapolis, and Patty Overton and Jason of Mooresville along with several nieces and nephews. Mrs. Hall was a 1972 graduate of Ben Davis High School and a 1976 graduate of the University of Indianapolis where she received her Bachelors Degree in Elementary Education. She received her Masters Degree in 1980 from Ball State University. She had been an elementary teacher at Jac-Cen-Del since 1976. She was a member of the Tyson United Methodist Church in Versailles and also of the Delta Rho Chapter of Tri Kappa. Mrs. Hall had been a member of the Central House Players and the Ripley County Harmonetts. Funeral services will be held Monday, June 20^th at 11am at the Tyson United Methodist Church in Versailles with Rev. Michael Hendrix officiating. Burial will be in the Cliff Hill Cemetery in Versailles. Visitation will be Sunday, June 19^th from 2pm to 6pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles. Memorials may be given to the Judy Hall Scholarship Fund in care of the funeral home.

Richard Purvis, 36, of Versailles passed away Tuesday, June 14^,2005 at his residence. He was born at New Albany on November 27, 1968 the son of Ernie and Nancy Napier Purvis. He was married to Bobbi Shelton on July 18, 1998 and she survives. Other survivors include one daughter Megan Purvis at home; stepsons John Roark and Lucas Davis; parents Mike and Nancy Daugherty of Versailles; sister Denessa (Dee-Dee) Benkie of Versailles; brother Bryce Purvis of Cincinnati; half-brothers Steven Purvis of Lexington, Kentucky and Jeff Purvis of Bear Branch; half-sister Robin Naegele of Lanesville. He was preceded in death by his father Ernie Purvis and his maternal grandmother Ruth Napier. Mr. Purvis was a 1987 graduate of South Ripley High School and had been an equipment operator for the Southeastern Indiana REMC since 1987. He was a member of the Versailles Volunteer Fire Department and was currently serving as chief. He was also a member of the Ripley County Fire Chiefs Association, Indiana Fire Chiefs Association and had been a member of Rescue 69 and Task Unit I. Funeral services will be held Saturday, June 18^th at 11am at South Ripley High School. Burial will be in the Cliff Hill Cemetery in Versailles. Visitation will be held Friday, June 17^th from 4pm to 9pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles. Memorials may be given to a fund for Megan Purvis in care of the funeral home.

Marie F. Underwood, 77, of Correct passed away Thursday, June 9, 2005 at the Christ Hospital in Cincinnati. She was born on near Cross Plains on April 7, 1928 the daughter of Arnold and Elnora Schwake Werner. She was married to Max Underwood on June 21, 1952 and he survives. Other survivors include two sons, Bruce Underwood and his wife Mary Jean Wiegert of Bellingham, Washington and David Underwood and his wife Julie of Correct; one daughter Amy Underwood Kot and her husband Mark Kot of Raliegh, North Carolina; four grandchildren, Ryan and Dylan Underwood and Jessica and Stefanie Kot. She was preceded in death by her parents and her son Gary Underwood. Mrs. Underwood was a 1946 graduate of Cross Plains High School, a homemaker, and a member of the Correct Homemakers Club. She was also a member of the St. Paul Lutheran Church in Olean where she was a Sunday School teacher and a member of the Women of the ELCA. Funeral services will be held Tuesday, June 14^th at 11am at the St. Paul Lutheran Church in Olean with Rev. Marcus Felde officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Visitation will be Monday, June 13^th from 4pm to 8pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles. Memorials may be given to St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in care of the funeral home.

Walter Bricka, 96, of Versailles passed away Sunday, June 5, 2005 at the Silver Bell Nursing Home at Versailles. He was born near Milan on January 7, 1909 the son of Milton and Maggie Smith Bricka. He was married to Leona Ford and she preceded him in death on November 14, 1998. Mr. Bricka was a truck driver for Seagrams for 25 years retiring in 1960. He was a member of the Aurora Eagles Lodge and he and his wife owned and operated a farm in Minnesota for several years. Survivors include his niece Karen Hillig of Versailles. He was also preceded in death by his parents, 2 brothers and 3 sisters. Graveside services will be held Sunday, June 12^th at 2pm at the Cliff Hill Cemetery in Versailles with Rev. Charles Cole of the Dabney Baptist Church officiating. Arrangements are being handled by the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles. Memorials may be given to the donors choice.

Kenneth Bush, 80, of Middletown, Ohio, formerly of Holton passed away Tuesday, May 31, 2005 at the Middletwon Regional Hospital. He was born in Wolfe County, Kentucky on April 10, 1925 the son of William and Dolly Bush. He was married to Shirley Allee on April 15, 1971 and she survives. Other survivors include two sons Kenny Bush, Jr. of Rexville and Ernest Wade Bush of Rexville; daughters Rita Scroggins and Darla Rousch both of Madison, Jessie Meece of Mason, Ohio and Judy Walston of Versailles; eighteen grandchildren and thirteen great-grandchildren; two brothers, Tom Bush of St. Leon and Glen Bush of Holton. He was preceded in death by his brother Bill Bush and one sister. Mr. Bush was Railroad worker for Queen City Construction for 30 years. Funeral services will be held Friday, June 3^rd at 3pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles. Visitation will be Friday from 1pm until time of services. Burial will be in the Otter Creek Cemetery in Nebraska. Memorials may be given to the donors choice.

Chelsa D. Simon, 27, of Osgood passed away Saturday, May 28, 2005 near New Marion as the result of an accident. She was born at Batesville March 26, 1978 the daughter of Jim and Cindy Ahrens Simon. Survivors include her parents Jim and Cindy Simon of Osgood; her son Dalton Simon at home; paternal grandparents Don and Ola Simon of Osgood; maternal grandparents Mervin and Margie Ahrens of Batesville; brothers Dustin, Shane, and Kane Simon all of Osgood. Ms. Simon was a member of the Adams Lutheran Church and a 1997 graduate of Jac-Cen-Del High School. She worked as a receptionist for the Manderley Health Care Center in Osgood. Funeral services will be held Thursday, June 2^nd at 10am at the Adams Lutheran Church near Batesville with Pastor William Powlen officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Visitation will be Wednesday, June 1^st from 4pm to 8pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles. Memorials may be given to the Dalton Simon Fund in care of the funeral home.

Wilma R.Wagner, 87, of Madison passed away Friday, May 27, 2005 at the Waters of Clifty Falls at Madison. She was born near Holton, Indiana on October 28,1917 the daughter of John J. and Cordia Sporleder Harrell. She was married to Clarence (Dick) Wagner on April 25, 1942 and he preceded her in death on March 19, 1984. She is survived by three daughters, Valeria Thomas and her husband Jim of Madison, Sandra Ley of Indianapolis, and Denise Wertenberger and her husband Jeff of Huntington; grandchildren Stephen Ley, Christine Ley Gibson, Blythe Thomas Couch, Blake Thomas, Eric and Lindsay Wertenberger; great-grandchildren Christopher and Joshua Ley; sisters Hilda Aldrich and Leona Bennett both of Indianapolis. Besides her husband Mrs. Wagner was preceded in death by her parents, her grandson Brandon L. Thomas, brothers Irwin, Wilbur, Wilfred, and Clayton Harrell, and her sisters Zelma and Mary Harrell, and Mona Whitaker. Mrs. Wagner was a 1936 graduate of New Marion High School and was a homemaker. She was a member of the North Madison Christian Church. Funeral services will be held Wednesday, June 1^st at 11am at the North Madison Christian Church with Bob Hicks officiating. Burial will be in the St. Magdelene Cemetery at Madison. Visitation will be Tuesday, May 31^st from 5pm to 8pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles. Memorials may be given to the American Cancer Society or the North Madison Christian Church in care of the funeral home. Online condolences may be made at skfuneralhome.com

Laura Lucille Schlotman, 90, of Versailles passed away Friday, May 27, 2005 at her residence. She was born in Otter Creek Township on February 27, 1915 the daughter of Elbridge and Erma Pratt Hammon. She was married to Brent Schlotman and he preceded her in death on September 18, 1979. Suvivors include one daughter Doris M. Lewis and her husband Bill of Versailles; grandsons Bryan Schlotman of Holton and Greg Schlotman of Fairland along with two great-grandchildren; two brothers John Hammon of Cincinnati and Frank Hammon of Republic, Missouri; one sister Dorothy Kimball of Holton. She was also preceded in death by her parents, brothers Norman Hammon and Rufus Hammon and her sisters Blanche Ross, Maebeth DeBurger, June Hansen, Dolores Hammon and Edith Hammon, one granddaughter and one great-granddaughter. Mrs. Schlotman was a 1934 graduate of Holton High School and a 1966 graduate of Indiana University. She taught school for several years in the Holton, Milan, and Moores Hill school systems. She was a member of the Versailles Baptist Church and the Riley Cheer Guild. Funeral services will be held Tuesday, May 31^st at 11am at the Versailles Baptist Church with Rev. Mark Walker and Rev. Charles Cole officiating. Visitation will be Tuesday from 9am until time of services at the church. The Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home of Versailles is in charge of the arrangements. Memorials may be given to the Versailles Baptist Church in care of the funeral home.

Herman W. Jahnigen, 87, of Versailles passed away Monday, May 23, 2005 at the Hospitality Hall of the Margaret Mary Community Hospital in Batesville. He was born in the Cedar Creek community near Osgood on April 22, 1918 the oldest son of Arthur and Clara Diem Jahnigen. He was married to Thelma Koons on May 3, 1947 and she survives. Other survivors include one daughter, Jeanne Ison and her husband Jerry of Milan; grandchildren J.J. Ison of Lawrenceburg, Lauren Ison, and Nikki Whisman both of Milan; one brother Jerald (Butch) Jahnigen and his wife Helen of Osgood; two sisters, Mrs. Dorothy Black of Holton and Mrs. Jeraldine Humphrey and her husband Jim of Osgood; his brother-in-law Walter S. Lowe of Osgood. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Clem Jahnigen and his sister Virginia Lowe. Mr. Jahnigen was a 1937 graduate of Versailles High School. He was a veteran of WWII and was Ripley County’s most decorated veteran. He was a member of the 508^thParachute Infantry of the 82^nd Airborne Division and participated in the D-Day landing at Normandy. He also participated in the Battle of the Bulge and was wounded on June 9, 1944 in the European Theatre. Mr. Jahnigen’s citations included the Purple Heart, Bronze Star, Silver Star, European Campaign Medal, Victory Medal, Good Conduct Medal, Distinguished Unit Citation, French Fourragere, Netherlands Citation, and the Normandy, Belgium, French, and American Defense Medals. On June 27, 1945 he received a battlefield commission promoting him to Lieutenant. In civilian life Mr. Jahnigen, along with his wife owned and operated Jahnigen Dry Cleaners in Versailles from 1947 to 1978. He also worked for Berkel Electronics in Versailles from 1978 to 1983. He was a member of the Versailles Baptist Church, a former member and past chief of the Versailles Fire Department, the Milan VFW, and was a member and past commander of the Versailles American Legion. Mr. Jahnigen was also a past vice-commander of the American Legion’s ninth district. Funeral services will be held Thursday, May 26^th at 10:30am at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Sandy Becker of the American Legion officiating. Burial will be in the Cliff Hill Cemetery in Versailles. Visitation will be Wednesday, May 25^th from 4pm to 8pm. Memorials may be given to the Versailles American Legion or the Cliff Hill Cemetery in care of the funeral home.

Everta Speyerer, 91, of Lawrenceburg passed away Wednesday, May 18^th at the Dillsboro Manor. She was born in Cincinnati on October 5, 1913 the daughter of Everett and Jennifer Revere Dean. She was married to Norman Speyerer and he preceded her in death in 1981. She is survived by her daughter Sandra Curtis and her husband Danny of Dillsboro; grandchildren Kenny, Toby, and Carl Riley, Danielle Moman and Shannon Curtis; one sister Ilene Devanny of Cincinnati. Mrs. Speyerer was a retired bookkeeper. Funeral services will be held Saturday, May 21^st at 10 am at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Rev. Roger Dean officiating. Burial will be in the Arlington Memorial Garden in Cincinnati. Visitation will be Saturday from 9am until time of services. Memorials may be given to the donors choice.

Mary M. Buchanan, 85, of Belleville, Michigan, formerly of Benham, passed away Sunday, May 15^th at the Oakwood Memorial Hospital in Dearborn, Michigan. She was born at Canton, North Carolina on October 14, 1919 the daughter of Jesse and Ada Edwards Johnson. She was married to Emmett Buchanan on April 20, 1946 and he preceded her in death on March 17, 1989. She is survived by her son David Buchanan and his wife Ernestine and one daughter Linda (Susie) Gabrys and her husband Joseph all of Belleville; three grandsons, Jacob Reeder, Nathan Gabrys and Joseph Gabrys, Jr.; three sisters Lora Buchanan of Alabama, Edith Hamilton of Baltimore, and Opal Sprouse of Asheville, North Carolina. Mrs. Buchanan was a member of the Belleville Church of God and also of the Versailles Order of the Eastern Star. She was a retired nursing assistant having retired from Outer Drive Hospital in Lincoln Park, Michigan. Funeral services will be held Monday, May 23^rd at 11am at the Benham United Methodist Church. Burial will be in the Benham Cemetery. Visitation will be Sunday, May 22^nd from 4pm to 6pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Eastern Star services at 6pm. Memorials may be given to the Southeastern Indiana Alzheimer's Support Group in care of the funeral home.

Verland S. King, 84, of Versailles, formerly of Osgood, passed away Wednesday, May 18, 2005 at his residence. He was born at Osgood on September 28, 1920 the son of Edgar Steadman and Pearl Pruiett King. He was married to Ilene Meadows on October 21, 1948 and she survives. Other survivors include his sister-in-law Mrs. Evelyn King of Osgood. Mr. King was a 1940 graduate of Osgood High School and along with his brothers owned and operated King’s Machine Shop in Osgood. He was a member of the New Testament Christian Church in Osgood. Funeral services will be held at the convenience of the family with burial in the Greendale Cemetery in Osgood. The Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles is in charge of arrangements.

Madeline B. Lauber, 94, of the Hopewell community passed away Sunday May 15, 2005 at the Jennings St. Vincent Hospital in North Vernon. She was born at Allen’s Crossing near Osgood on April 6, 1912 the daughter of John and Hazel Sheets Daugherty. She was married to Dennis Lauber and he preceded her in death in 1988. Survivors include one son Denver Lauber and his wife Betty of the Hopewell community; six grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren, and four great-great grandchildren. Besides her husband she was preceded in death by her parents, her son Merlin Lauber, her sister Sylvestine Howard, and her brothers Howard and Robert Daugherty. Mrs. Lauber was a 1929 graduate of Holton High School and was a 75 year member of the Hopewell Baptist Church. She was a homemaker and farmed with her husband. Funeral services will be held Thursday, May 19^th at 11am at the Hopewell Baptist Church with Rev. David Shivers officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Visitation will be Wednesday, May 18^th from 5pm to 8pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles. Memorials may be given to the Hopewell Building Fund in care of the funeral home.

Walter F. Renfro, 89, of Holton passed away Friday, May 13, 2005 at King’s Daughter’s Hospital in Madison. He was born at Holton on August 5, 1915 the son of Fred and Rosa Buchanan Renfro. He was married to Mayme Sizemore on December 9, 1939 and she survives. Other survivors include two sons; Walter Jr. and his wife Linda of Holton and Fred and his wife Patty of Rexville; Three daughters; Myrtle Moberly and her husband Earl of Holton, Donna Hamilton and her husband David of Rexville, and Joyce Scott and her husband Keith of New Marion; Eleven grandchildren and eighteen great- grandchildren; one sister, Mrs. Zelpha Naylor of Holton. He was preceded in death by his parents, his sisters Bertha and Laura Renfro and his brother Daily Renfro. Mr. Renfro was a retired farmer and had owned and operated Renfro Farm Implements in Holton for several years. He was a 1933 graduate of Holton High School and was a life long Christian. Mr. & Mrs. Renfro enjoyed fishing and had spent several winters in St.Cloud, Florida. Mr. Renfro was a member of the Otter Creek Baptist Church. Funeral services will be held Tuesday, May 17^th at 1pm at the Holton United Methodist Church in Holton with Dale Day and Randy Thieman officiating. Visitation will be from 5pm till 8pm Monday, May 16^th at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles. Memorials may be given to the Holton United Methodist Church in care of the funeral home.

Esther Busch Dean, 89, of Cincinnati passed away Monday, May 09, 2005 at the Ripley Crossing in Milan. She was born at Cincinnati on March 1, 1916 the daughter of Henry and Mary Niehouse Busch. She was married to Frank Cooper who preceded her in death and was later married to Stanley Dean who also preceded her in death. Survivors include one brother Walter Busch and his wife Annabelle of Osgood; one sister, Mrs. Ethel Stegemoller of Versailles; six nieces and nephews and nine great nieces and nephews. Mrs. Dean was a 1934 graduate of Osgood High School and was a secretary for Standard Oil. Graveside services will be held Friday, May 13^th at 11am at the Rest Haven Cemetery in Cincinnati. Visitation will be Thursday, May 12^th from 5pm to 7pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles. Memorials may be given to the Jac-Cen-Del High School Scholarship Fund in care of the funeral home. Online condolences may be made at skfuneralhome.com

Anna Buffington, 83, of Versailles passed away Friday, May 6, 2005 at her residence. She was born at Arma, Kansas on November 21, 1921 the daughter of Alex and Rose Meranda Grimaldi. She is survived by two sons Steve Buffington (owner of Steve’s Bike Shop) of Versailles and Fred Buffinton of Carson City, Nevada; five grandchildren; one great-grandson; one brother Frank Grimaldi of Kansas City, Missouri. Ms. Buffington was preceded in death by one son; Ed Buffington and one brother Alex Grimaldi Jr. Ms. Buffinton was a retired school teacher. Funeral services will be held Tuesday, May 10^th at 11:00am at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Father Darvin Winters officiating. Visitation will be from 10:00am until time of services. Memorials may be given to the donors choice.

Ralph W. Shelton Jr., 77, Carrollton (formerly of Versailles) passed away Saturday, April 30, 2005 at the Wesleyan Hall in Cincinnati. He was born in Jennings County, Indiana on November 21, 1927 the son of Ralph W. and Ada Beech Shelton. He was married to Wanda DeBurger on June 11, 1952 and she preceded him in death on September 4, 2001. His survivors include two sons Randy Shelton of Erlanger, Kentucky and Ricky Shelton of Carrollton, Kentucky; six grandchildren; one great-grandchild: Two sisters; Janice Houston of Cincinnati, Ohio and Gloria Jim of Cincinnati, Ohio. Mr. Shelton also was preceded in death by one sister; Betty Ruth Parin. Mr. Shelton retired from Uniroyal Tire Company and was a Veteran of WWII and a member of the VFW in Carrollton, Kentucky. Funeral services will be held Tuesday, May 3, 2005 at 2:00pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Ronnie Harman officiating. Visitation will be from 12:00pm until time of services. Burial will be in the Shelby Cemetery. Memorials may be given to the Shelby Christian Church.

Vivian Irene Jackson, 82, of Versailles passed away Tuesday, April 26, 2005 at the Kings Daughters Hospital in Madison. Vivian was born on April 9, 1923 in Marion, Illinois the daughter of Augusta Lee and Helen Hartline Rendleman. She was married to Robert Guthrie of Kansas City in 1942 and on April 20, 1946 she was married to Willard Jackson and he survives. Other survivors include one daughter, Marcia McKenney and her husband Randy of Shelbyville; two sons, Robert Guthrie and his wife Peggy of Arlington, Tennessee and Danny Jackson of Versailles; 10 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, her baby brother Bobby, her first husband and her daughter Pamela Jackson. Mrs. Jackson was a member of the Tanglewood Baptist Church where she served in various capacities for over 50 years with many of those years as the adult class Sunday School teacher. Vivian and children always had a special connection. Mrs. Jackson was employed at and retired from the Muscatatuck State Hospital where her rewarding responsibilities included one of resident care taker and trainer/instructor. Visitation will be held Friday, April 29^th from 5pm to 8pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles. Funeral services will be held Saturday, April 30^th at 11am at the Tanglewood Baptist Church with Rev. Becky Pohle officiating. Burial will be in the Tanglewood Cemetery. Memorials may be given to the Vivian Jackson Memorial Scholarship Fund in care of the funeral home.

Ida Lucille Franklin, 83, of Osgood passed away Monday, April 18, 2005 at the Manderley Health Care Center in Osgood. She was born near Deleware on May 7, 1921 the daughter of Joseph and Lilly May Shorten Volz. She was married to James Franklin on June 12, 1938 and he preceded her in death on December 11, 2004. Survivors include one daughter, Joyce Miller and her husband Ralph of Deleware; five grandchildren, Jim Miller and his wife Bonnie, Jon Miller and Sharon all of Holton, Sheri Deaton of Vevay, Merri Price of Batesville, and Terri Stein and her husband Michael of Cincinnati along with 16 great-grandchildren. Besides her husband she was preceded in death by her parents, her brother Roy Volz and her sister Thelma Steinfort. Mrs. Franklin attended Osgood High School and was employed with the Southeastern Indiana REMC in Osgood, retiring in 1985. She was a member of the Osgood United Methodist Church. Funeral services will be held Friday, April 22^nd at 11am at the Osgood United Methodist Church with Rev. Robert Rixman and Rev. Maxine Rixman officiating. Burial will be in the Cliff Hill Cemetery in Versailles. Visitation will be Thursday, April 21^st from 5pm to 8pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles. Memorials may be given to the Osgood United Methodist Church in care of the funeral home.

Maralou Reid , 80, of Versailles passed away Tuesday, April 12, 2005 at the Dearborn County Hospital in Lawrenceburg. She was born at Bedford, Indiana on August 9, 1924 the daughter of Marion and Margaret Simeon Shackelford. She was married to Philip Reid and he preceded her in death in 1996. She is survived by one son, John Reid of Versailles; one grandson Max Geller and one son-in-law Steven Geller of Indianapolis. Besides her husband she was preceded in death by her parents and her daughter Martha Geller. Mrs. Reid was a homemaker. Funeral services will be held Thursday, April 14^th at 3pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles. Visitation will be Thursday from 1pm until time of services. Burial will be in the Cliff Hill Cemetery at Versailles. Memorials may be given to the American Cancer Society in care of the funeral home.

Patricia A. (Pat) Taul, 76, of Versailles passed away Sunday, April 3, 2005 at Ripley Crossing in Milan. She was born at Frankfort, Indiana on February 17, 1929 and raised in Detroit, Michigan, the daughter of Carl and Gail Lewis Broaders. She was married to Jesse Taul on June 1, 1947 and he survives. Other survivors include one son Carl H. Taul and his wife Katherine of Versailles; two grandchildren, Rachel Taul of Elkhart and Carisa Sexton and her husband Brian of Pittsboro; one great-grandson Kenny Sexton; two sisters, Rose Marie Sparling and her husband Don of North Hollywood, California and Wanda Kackley and her husband Lee of Michigan. Mrs. Taul was a 1947 graduate of Cross Plains High School. She was a former employee of Russell Braley’s Clover Farm store in Versailles, Delaney Wood Heel Factory in Versailles and retired from Conn Organ in 1978. She was a 40 year member of the Versailles Baptist Church choir and was currently a member of the Bear Creek Baptist Church in Friendship. She was also a 50 year member and past president of the Versailles American Legion Auxiliary and was a member of the Versailles Chapter of the Eastern Star. Funeral services will be held Wednesday, April 6^th at 10:30am at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Rev. Richard Burcham and Rev. Sherman Hughes officiating. Visitation will be held Tuesday, April 5^th from 4pm to 8pm with Legion Auxiliary and Eastern Star services beginning at 7:30pm. Burial will be in the Akers Friendship Cemetery. Memorials may be given to the cemetery or the Southeastern Indiana Alzheimer’s Support Group in care of the funeral home.

Madge L. Schlotman, 92, of Greensburg passed away Friday, April 1, 2005 at the Heritage House in Greensburg. She was born near Holton on September 22, 1912 the daughter of James and Susan Dobson Beach. She was married to Lester Schlotman on April 4, 1931 and he preceded her in death on November 2, 1984. Survivors include two daughters, Carolyn Williams and her husband Gerald of Greensburg and Donna Fernandez and her husband Guillermo of Gurabo, Pureto Rico; eight grandchildren, 27 great-grandchildren, eight great great grandchildren, three step-grandchildren and four step-great-grandchildren; one sister Mrs. Bernice Palmer of Holton. Besides her husband she was preceded in death by her parents, her daughter Betty Jane, her granddaughter Sue Williams Rice, brothers Wilbur, Henry and Melvin Beach and her sisters Edna Rose and Thelma Bostic. Mrs. Scholotman was a member of the Holton Christian Church and worked as a cook at the Billings School in Greensburg. Funeral services will be held Tuesday, April 5^th at 1pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Rev. Robert Johnson of the Free Methodist Church in Greensburg officiating. Burial will be in the Holton Cemetery. Visitation will be held Tuesday from 11am until time of services. Memorials may be given to the Gideons in care of the funeral home.

Betty Jean Struckman, 58, of Osgood passed away Tuesday March 29, 2005 at the Margaret Mary Hospital in Batesville. She was born at Milan on September 27, 1946 the daughter of George and Edna Beach Rose. She was married to Clifford Struckman on October 2, 1978 and he survives. Other survivors include two daughters, Carrie Dunaway of Osgood and Kim Foutch and her husband Jason of Dillsboro along with five grandchildren. Mrs. Struckman was a 1964 graduate of Jac-Cen-Del High School and was a former employee of US Shoe and Delta Faucet. Graveside services will be held Thursday, March 31^st at 11am at the Greendale Cemetery in Osgood with Dale Day officiating. The Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles is in charge of arrangements.

Bertie Sauer, 69, of Seymour, formerly of Versailles passed away Saturday, March 26, 2005 at the Columbus Regional Hospital. She was born at Keavy, in Laurel County, Kentucky on November 16, 1935 the daughter of Dillard and Mollie Lawson Witt. She was married to George Sauer on June 30, 1977 and he survives. Other survivors include four daughters, Susan Smith and her husband Joe of Versailles, Patti Saunders of Seymour, Donna Walls of Versailles, and Sherri Stolze and her husband Craig of North Vernon; one son Charles “Chuck” Bunch and his wife Janna of Hamilton, Ohio; one step-daughter Charlene Tillis and her husband Randy of Chicago; 19 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren; two brothers Robert Witt and his wife Violet of Brookville and Jerry Witt and his wife Wren of Indianapolis; one sister Katherine Shepherd of Citra, Florida. Mrs. Sauer was preceded in death by her son Tommy Bunch and her grandsons Michael and Nicholas Huber. Mrs. Sauer was a homemaker and a member of the Versailles Church of Christ. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, March 30^th at 2pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Dale Day officiating. Visitation will be Tuesday, March 29^th from 5pm to 8pm. Burial will be in the Cliff Hill Cemetery in Versailles. Memorials may be given to the Riley Hospital for Children or the Versailles Church of Christ in care of the funeral home.

William E. Smith, 50, of Versailles passed away Friday, March 18, 2005 at the Kings Daughters Hospital in Madison. He was born at Milan on June 14, 1954 the son of Alfred and Elfreida Meier Smith. Survivors include one daughter Megan Smith at home; one brother Kenneth Smith and his wife Jill of Lafayette; his uncle Elmer Meier of Dewberry; nieces Shannon Smith of Bloomington, Illinois and Shilo Smith of Las Cruces, New Mexico. Mr. Smith was a 1972 graduate of South Ripley High School and was a member of the St. Paul Lutheran Church in Dewberry. He owned and operated T S Auto Sales in Versailles and had worked in the community as a mechanic. Mr. Smith also enjoyed NASCAR racing and IU basketball. Funeral services will be held Monday, March 21^st at 11am at the St. Paul Lutheran Church in Dewberry with Pastor Donald Sauls officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Visitation will be Sunday, March 20^th from 3pm to 6pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles. Memorials may be given to the Meagan Smith College Fund in care of the funeral home.

Jeanette L. Kluemper, 74, of Osgood passed away Tuesday, March 15, 2005 at the Christ Hospital in Cincinnati. She was born near Osgood on October 20, 1930 the daughter of Albert and Clara Marie Kelly Hardebeck. She was married to Edward Kluemper on June 25, 1949 and he survives. Other survivors include three daughters, Carlotta Gunter and her husband Jerald of Batesville, Janet Orr and Harley of Osgood, and Patricia Ann Ferguson and Brady of Indianapolis; 22 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren; two brothers, Leo Hardebeck of Napoleon and Roy Hardebeck of Osgood; two sisters, Ruth Cole of Holton and Diana Shelton of New Mexico. She was preceded in death by her parents, her daughter Melinda Cook, and her sisters Vivian Sutton and Colleen Elston. Mrs. Kluemper was a homemaker and a member of the St. Maurice Catholic Church in Napoleon. Mass of Christian Burial will be held Saturday, March 19^th at 1:00 pm at the St. Maurice Catholic Church in Napoleon with Father Todd Goodson officiating. Calling will be at the convenience of the family and burial will be in the church cemetery. Memorials may be given to the donors choice. The Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home of Versailles is in charge of the arrangements.

Robert L. Williams, 73, of Osgood passed away Friday, March 11, 2005 at his home. He was born at Morrow, Ohio on April 24, 1931 the son of Clem and Mary Blankenship Williams. He was married to Wanda Riddle on February 14, 1990 and she survives. Other survivors include one son Richard Williams and his wife Terri of Morningview, Kentucky; one daughter Jeanine Crandall and her husband Craig of Milan; six grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, sons Hoot Williams and Clint Conway and his brothers Ted and Lester Williams. Mr. Williams was a veteran of the Korean War where he served in the 101^st Airborne as a paratrooper. He was a retired truck driver having logged more than four million accident free miles over the course of 43 years. He was a member of the Hopewell Baptist Church, the Milan VFW and was a member of the Boone Union Masonic Lodge in Union, Kentucky. Funeral services will be held Tuesday, March 15^th following Masonic services at 1pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Rev. David Shivers of the Hopewell Baptist Church officiating. Visitation will be Tuesday from 10am until time of services. Burial will be held at the convenience of the family. Memorials may be given to the Hopewell building fund in care of the funeral home.

Samuel M. Raney, 99, of Versailles passed away Thursday, March 10^th, 2005 at the Manderly Health Care Center in Osgood. He was born in the Tanglewood community near Versailles on December 22, 1905 the son of Robert Newton and Mary Alice Jackson Raney. He was married to Emma Melba Robertson on June 22, 1929 and she preceded him in death on September 4, 1994. Survivors include three daughters, Carolyn Galyean and her husband Robert of Richmond, Doris Kurtz and her husband August “Bud” Kurtz of Angola, and Barbara Kemp and her husband William Kemp of Osgood; fifteen grandchildren, thirty-nine great-grandchildren and five great-great grandchildren. Besides his parents and his wife he was preceded in death by his son Carl; four brothers, Glen, Floyd, Jack, and Hershel Raney; five sisters, Ethel Sheets, Edith Raney, Agnes Richmond, and Madaline Moody. Mr. Raney was a 1923 graduate of Versailles High School and graduated from the Fort Wayne School of Business. He was a 35 year employee of Coca-Cola where he managed a distribution center in Angola and was an Army veteran of WWII. Mr. Raney was a member of the Tanglewood Baptist Church and a member and past commander of the Versailles American Legion. He was a 70 year member of the Masonic Lodge having belonged in Angola and was currently a member of the Versailles lodge. Funeral services will be held Sunday, March 13^th at 1pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Rev. Becky Pohle of the Tanglewood Baptist Church officiating. Burial will be in Tanglewood Cemetery in Versailles. Visitation will be Saturday, March 12^th from 2pm to 4pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles. The Versailles Masonic Lodge will conduct services Saturday at the funeral home and military graveside rites will be given by the Versailles American Legion. Memorials may be given to the Versailles Masonic Lodge in care of the funeral home.

Clara Marie Schroder, 94, of Osgood, passed away Thursday March 10, 2005 at the Manderly Nursing Home in Osgood. She was born at Rising Sun, Indiana on January 20, 1911 the daughter of Jowell and Mary L. Gentry Rice. She was married to William J. Schroder in 1945 and he preceded her in death in 1975. Survivors include one brother Hartsell Rice of Osgood, one niece Mary Rice of Indianapolis, one nephew, Robert Rice of Fort Sill, Oklahoma. Besides her husband she was preceded in death by her parents, one brother Gentry Rice, one nephew Don Rice. Mrs. Schroder was a social worker for the Dearborn and Ohio Counties Welfare Department and a member of the Rising Sun United Methodist Church. Funeral services will be held Monday, March 14^th at 10:30am at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Rev. Rob Rixman of the Osgood United Methodist Church officiating. Visitation will be Sunday from 5pm to 7pm at the funeral home. Burial will be in the Fink’s Cemetery near Osgood. Memorials may be given to the Osgood United Methodist Church or the St. Peter’s United Church of Christ, Fink’s Corner in care of the funeral home.

Elsie Tingle, 92, of Benham passed away Thursday March 3, 2005 at the Jennings St.Vincent Hospital in North Vernon. She was born at Benham on June 21, 1912 the daughter of Chancie and Julia Whitaker Gelvin. She was married to Stanley Tingle on October 14, 1937 and he preceded her in death in 1970. Survivors include one daughter, Ruth Thornton and her husband Delza of Milan; two sons, Alton Tingle and Floyd Tingle and his wife Loydene all of Benham; one granddaughter, six step-grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren; one brother Troy Gelvin of Dayton and one sister Ramona Farrell of Versailles. Besides her husband she was preceded in death by her parents, son Ralph, grandson Michael Creigmile, daughter-in-law Bernice Tingle, sisters Dorothy Alexander, Mamie Elston, and Florence Pettit, and her brother Louis Gelvin. Mrs. Tingle was a homemaker and a member of the Concord Wesleyan Church. Funeral services will be held Sunday, March 6^th at 2pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Rev.Wayne Mahoney officiating. Visitation will be Sunday from 12pm until time of services. Burial will be in the Benham Cemetery. Memorials may be given to the Benham Cemetery in care of the funeral home.

Evelyn Hughes, 94, of Correct passed away Tuesday, March 1, 2005 at Ripley Crossing in Milan. She was born at Rexville on February 23, 1911 the daughter of Taylor and Daisy Noyes Brinson. She was married to J. Marion Hughes on November 14, 1930 and he preceded her in death on March 8, 2002. Survivors include two sons, William Hughes and his wife Wilma of Correct and Wayne Hughes and his wife Rosemarie of Monument, Colorado; two grandchildren, William J. Hughes and his wife Dale of Noblesville and Dianna Swinney and her husband Fred of New Marion; four great-grandchildren, Ryan Hughes, Jon Hughes, J. D. Swinney, and Adam Swinney; a cousin Alta Hall and her husband Art of Fort Wayne. Mrs. Hughes was a 1929 graduate of New Marion High School and was a 53 year member of the Versailles Baptist Church. She was also a homemaker and was employed as an attendant at Muscatatuck for 14 years retiring in 1976. Funeral services will be held Saturday, March 5^th at 11am at the Versailles Baptist Church with Rev. Mark Walker officiating. Visitation will be Friday, March 4^th from 5pm to 8pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles. Burial will be in the Cliff Hill Cemetery in Versailles. Memorials may be given to the Versailles Baptist Church or Ripley Crossing in care of the funeral home.

Roberta “Tootie” Haag, 92, of Lawrenceburg passed away Thursday, February 24, 2005 at her residence. She was born at Lawrenceburg on September 25, 1912 the daughter of Robert and Caroline Messang Miller. She was married to Robert Haag on May 25, 1931 and he preceded her in death on December 14, 1973. Mrs. Haag is survived by her son Bill and his wife Sonja of Lawrenceburg; one daughter, Sue Karsteter and her husband Steve of Lawrenceburg; five grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren; two sisters Jenny Burnett of Lawrenceburg and Mary Lou Getz of Madison; one brother Bob Miller of Memphis, Tennessee. Mrs. Haag was a mother and a homemaker and a member of the First Baptist Church of Greendale. She was also a member of the Eastern Star and Internationally Yours. Funeral services will be held Monday, February 28^th at 2pm at the First Baptist Church in Greendale with visitation being from 12pm until time of services. Burial will be in the Greendale Cemetery. Memorials may be given to the Greendale Rescue Unit or the First Baptist Church. The Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles is in charge of arrangements.

Ida M. Franklin, 92, of the Hopewell community died Friday, February 25, 2005 at the Manderley Health Care Center in Osgood. She was born near Dabney on April 30, 1912 the daughter of Abraham and Maude Jenkins Barricklow. She was married to Floyd Franklin on January 28, 1931 and he preceded her in death on September 20, 1990. Survivors include four sons, Allen Franklin and his wife Louella, Gene Franklin and his wife Shirley, and Frank Franklin and his wife Myrtie all of Holton and Ben Franklin and his wife Henrietta of Versailles; three daughters, Leota Conover of Holton, Eva Mae Wagoner and her husband Chalres of Lake Placid, Florida, and Rowena Sanders and her husband Robert of Murray, Kentucky; 28 grandchildren, 52 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great grandchildren. Besides her husband she was preceded in death by her parents, son-in-law Egbert Conover, granddaughter Lisa Franklin, ten brothers Ben, Henry, John, Joe, Louis, George, Cecil, Jim, Forest, and Tom Barricklow; sisters Marjorie Burns, Daisy Williams, and Althea Pickett. Mrs. Franklin attended the Dabney School and was a 1930 graduate of Holton High School. She was a member of the Dabney Baptist Church and attended the Hopewell Baptist Church. Mrs. Franklin had worked at Muscatatuck and also had worked as a cook at the Holton School. Funeral services will be held Monday, February 28^th at 1pm at the Hopewell Baptist Church with Rev. David Shivers officiating. Visitation will be Sunday, February 27^th from 3pm to 7pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles. Memorials may be given to the Hopewell Baptist Church or the Holton Fire Department in care of the funeral home.

Mary Raffignone, 78, of Elrod passed away Tuesday February 22, 2005 at the Margaret Mary Community Hospital in Batesville. She was born at Faubush in Pulaski County, Kentucky on January 20, 1927 the daughter of Marvin and Lula Pittman Johnson. She was married to Lovell Lee Raffignone on June 24, 1950 and he survives. Other survivors include one son Ron Raffignone and his wife Denise of Waynetown; one daughter Kathy Craig of Elrod; grandchildren Lori Sullivan of Elrod, Jeremy Stevens of Michigan, and Mandy Raffignone of Waynetown; great-grandchildren Brandon, Christian, and Jacob. Mrs. Raffignone was preceded in death by her parents and her brothers Earl, Bertram, and Arnold Johnson. She was a homemaker and a member of the Washington Baptist Church at Elrod. Funeral services will be held Friday, February 25^th at 11am at the Washington Baptist Church with Rev. Bruce Fitzsimmons officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Visitation will be Thursday, February 24^th 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 Gideons in care of the funeral home.

Daniel Peter Jachimiak, 17, of Versailles passed away Thursday February 17, 2005 at the Riley Hospital for children in Indianapolis. He was born at Madison on October 2, 1987 the son of Peter and Angela Montgomery Jachimiak and they survive. Other survivors include his brother Michael Highlander of Versailles; paternal grandmother Barbara Jachimiak of Versailles; maternal grandmother Carol Moody of West Harrison along with several aunts, uncles, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his paternal grandfather Carl Jachimiak and his maternal grandfather Earl Moody. Daniel was a junior at the Cavehill Christian Academy where he was a student of art. He was consistently on the honor roll and also the Pastor’s honor roll. He was a member of the Cavehill Church of God where he served as the sound technician for the church. He also participated in the church youth group and was on the drama team. Funeral services will be held Monday, February 21^st at 10am at the Cavehill Church of God with Pastor Pearl Cornett officiating. Visitation will be Sunday, February 20^th after 4pm at the Cavehill Church of God. Memorials may be given to the Ronald McDonald House, Riley Hospital cancer research, or the Cavehill Christian Academy all in care of the funeral home. The Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles is in charge of the arrangements.

Ralph Houston, 67, of Versailles, formerly of Milan passed away Wednesday, February 9, 2005 at his residence. He was born at Falmouth, Kentucky on December 11, 1937 the son of Barnett and Leo Mains Houston. Mr. Houston is survived by his friend Lorena Houston of Milan; son Anthony Powell of Shelbyville; daughter Virginia Lee Houston of Indianapolis; two grandchildren; He was preceded in death by his son James Russell, brothers Eddie, Jimmie, and Bill; sisters Carol and Betty. Mr. Houston was a self employed welder. He was a member of the Amvets at Versailles and the sons of the Legion at Osgood. Visitation will be held Sunday, February 13^th from 1pm to 3pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles. Funeral services will be held at the convenience of the family. Memorials may be given to the donors choice.

Tommy Davies, 66, of Farmers Retreat passed away Thursday, February 03, 2005 at his residence. He was born on Davies Hill in Clay Township, Dearborn County on December 4, 1938 the son of Franklin and Anna Jacobs Davies. He was married to Frances Randall on September 17, 1960 and she survives. Other survivors include one daughter, Tina Devers and her husband Chuck of Fairland; three sons, Michael Davies and his wife Amy of Dewberry, Patrick Davies and Heidi of Rising Sun, and Franklin Davies and his friend Marie Meyer of Cross Plains; ten grandchildren; one sister Dorothy Snyder of Cincinnati; sisters-in-law Helen Davies of Olean, Betty Davies of Dillsboro, and Ellen Ann Carroll of Ross, Ohio; brother-in-law John Rodolo of Madison. He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Nellie Rodolo, and his brothers Dale, Denver, and Floyd Davies. Mr. Davies was retired from Monsanto and was a Navy veteran. Funeral services will be held Sunday, February 6^th at 2pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Rev. Tom Fehrman officiating. Visitation will be Sunday from 12pm to 2pm at the funeral home. Burial will be in the St. Peter’s Cemetery at Olean. Memorials may be given to the American Cancer Society or the Hospice of Dearborn County in care of the funeral home.

Delbert E. Dilk, 77, of Versailles passed away Tuesday, January 25, 2004 at the Thornton Terrace Health Care Center in Hanover. He was born in the Marble Corner community of Shelby Township near New Marion on January 11, 1928 the son of Clarence H. and Sina Wright Dilk. He was married to Martha Boekankamp on November 17, 1951 and she survives. Other survivors include two daughters, Sandra Kay Howlett of Versailles and Betty Wirtz and her husband Steven also of Versailles; three grandchildren Chris Howlett and his wife Bobbie of Milan, Karen Hubbard and her husband Eric of Versailles, and Jeffery Wirtz of Versailles and great-grandchildren Conner and Anna Hubbard; two brothers, Floyd Dilk of Florida and Nelson Dilk of Versailles. Besides his parents he was preceded in death by his brothers Clarence and Ralph Dilk. Mr. Dilk was a retired farmer and had worked as a truck driver for Howard Lostutter and had also worked at the Delaney Wood Heel factory in Versailles. He was retired from Delta Faucet in Greensburg. He had belonged to the Marble Corner Methodist Church and was currently a member of the St. Paul Lutheran Church in Olean. Funeral services will be held Friday, January 28^th at 11am at the St. Paul Lutheran Church in Olean with Pastor Marcus Felde officiating. Burial will be in St. Peter’s Cemetery in Olean. Visitation will be Thursday, January 27^th from 5pm to 8pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles. Memorials may be given to the Improvement Fund of St. Paul’s or to St. Peter’s Cemetery in care of the funeral home.

Arthur “Doc” Turner, 64, of Versailles passed away Wednesday January 12, 2005 at his residence. He was born at Hazard, Kentucky on August 15, 1940 the son of Arnold and Ella Gibson Turner. He was married to Patricia Phares on July 4, 1970 and she survives. Other survivors include two sons Scott Turner of Osgood and Kenny Turner of Versailles; daughter Lana Turner of Ross, Ohio; step-daughter Karen Tope of Osgood; step-sons Charles Tope of Hamilton, Ohio, Dale Tope of Hebron, Kentucky, and Timmy Tope of Mason, Ohio; twenty grandchildren; Two brothers Bill Turner of Amelia, Ohio and Bobby Turner of Hazard; sisters Beulah Napier of Sun City, Arizona, Betty Cook of Hazard, and Diane Vogt of Hamilton.

Mr. Turner was a machinist for Lunkenheimers in Cincinnati and was a member of the VFW in Hazard and Sun City, Arizona. Funeral services will be held Friday, January 14^th at 1pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Dale Day officiating. Visitation will be from 11am until time of services. Memorials may be given to the donors choice.

Ella Rose McGuire, of Osgood infant daughter of Justin McGuire and Chrystal Bushorn of Osgood, passed away Saturday, January 8, 2005 at the University Hospital in Cincinnati, OH. She was born January 5, 2005. Besides her parents, she is survived by her paternal grandparents, Artie and Connie McGuire of Madison; maternal grandparents, Andy and Melanie Bushorn of Aurora and Scott and Mollie Manis of Osgood; paternal great-grandparents, Jackie and Janice McGuire of Madison and Mitchell Tussey of Franklin, OH; maternal great-grandparents, Betty Manis of Aurora, Clifford and Judy Bushorn of Milan, Barbara Clift of Holton; aunts and uncles Jonathan McGuire, Grant McGuire, Maranda Barrett, Ciara McGuire, Ryan Bushorn, Adam Bushorn, Scott Manis, Jr. and Kelly Manis. She was preceded in death by her uncle, Garrett McGuire; paternal great-grandmother, Joyce Tussey; and maternal great-grandparents, Ernest Clift, Sr. and Donzell Manis, Sr. Graveside services were held Monday, January 10 at Cliff Hill Cemetery in Versailles with Rev. Charles Cole of the Dabney Baptist Church officiating. The Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles was in charge of the arrangements.

Martha L. Brooks, 68, of North Vernon passed away Saturday, January 8, 2005 at the Columbus Regional Hospital. She was born at Hanover on March 7, 1936 the daughter of Albert and Reona Watson. She was married to Edward Brooks on September 25, 1954 and he preceded her in death on February 18, 1979. Survivors include two sons, Gary Brooks and his wife Cindy, Randal Brooks and his wife Brenda all of Versailles; one daughter Patti Brooks of Versailles; six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren; one sister, Inez Mitchum of Houston, Texas. Mrs. Brooks had worked at Ohio Rod in Versailles and had retired from the dietary department of the Muscatatuck State Developmental Center. Funeral services will be held Wednesday, January 12^th at 1pm at the Benham United Methodist Church with Jerry Brooks and Rev. Phil Meyer officiating. Burial will be in the Benham Cemetery. Visitation will be Tuesday, January 11^th from 6pm to 8pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles. Memorials may be given to the Jennings County Humane Society or the American Bible Society in care of the funeral home.

Richard Lee Ragan, 60, of Holton passed away Wednesday, January 5, 2005 at his residence. He was born at Dayton, Ohio on January 15 1944 the son of Lee and Lucy Kenner Ragan. He was married to Leta Green on January 5, 1976 and she survives. Other survivors include one son Timothy Ragan of Deleware and Kelly Jo Ragan of Holton along with two grandchildren. Mr. Ragan was a retired Carpenter and a veteran. Services will be held at the convenience of the family. The Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles is in charge of the arrangements.

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