Stratton - Karstetter Obituarie Archive

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

Obituaries for Year 2008

Former educator and long-time coach William "Gus" Moorhead, 79, died Sunday, December 21, 2008, at the Christ Hospital in Cincinnati. He was born January 18, 1929 in Madison, the son of Joseph and Helen Demaree Moorhead.

Mr. Moorhead was an accomplished educator serving 40 years in the Versailles and South Ripley schools. He retired in July of 1991 after holding the title of principal for 23 years, receiving the Principal of the Year award in 1981.

His years in education followed a very successful career as a coach for the Versailles Lions and then the South Ripley Raiders. Four straight sectional wins are credited to Moorhead. He coached for 17 years for Versailles/South Ripley schools where he held the first head basketball coach position in the history of the corporation.

His love for sports carried over into a column he wrote weekly for The Versailles Republican, The Ol' Coach Sez. This award-winning column appeared every week for 15 years with a variety of topics from his forecast for the most valuable players of teams to his opinion of basketball greats such as Hallie Bryant and Oscar Robertson. About writing for the local newspaper he told a reporter, "It was an honor, something I never expected."

Mr. Moorhead was a member and past president of the board of directors for the Ripley County Basketball Hall of Fame. He served two terms on the IHSAA Board of Directors, was inducted into the Indiana Basketball Hall of Fame in 1980, the Hanover College Athletic Hall of Fame in 1995, and the Ripley County Basketball Hall of Fame in 2002.

He was very involved in the Versailles Baptist Church where he was a member for 57 years. He served as a deacon, trustee, and Sunday school teacher. He was a volunteer for the American Cancer Society and was a Sagamore of the Wabash recipient in 1991.

He graduated from Madison High School in 1947, Hanover College in 1951, and held degrees from Indiana University. He was a former member of the Versailles Lions Club and past president of the Ripley County Retired Teachers Association.

Mr. Moorhead married his high school sweetheart, Mary Margaret Mills on August 14, 1949 and she survives. Other survivors include four children - all of whom followed in the footsteps of their father and are high school principals: a son, Rob Moorhead and wife Lisa of Aurora; three daughters: Mary Helen "Molly" Moorhead of Cincinnati; Jody Jordan and husband David of Naples, Florida; and Jane Rogers and husband, Jeff, of Versailles. They have seven grandchildren; two step-grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and two step-great grandchldren.

A celebration of Mr. Moorhead's life will be held Saturday, December 27 at 11 a.m. at the Versailles Baptist Church with Rev. Kurt Stutler, Rev. Rick Burcham and Rev. Don Humphrey officiating. Visitation will be held Friday, December 26 from 3 to 8 p.m. at the Family Life Center of the Versailles Baptist Church and from 10 a.m. until time of the celebration service on Saturday at the church.

Memorials may be given to the Versailles Baptist Church or the William H. "Gus" Moorhead Scholarship fund in care of the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles, who is in charge of the arrangements.

Thomas “Paul” Miller, 21, of Holton passed away Friday, December 19, 2008 at Children’s Hospital in Cincinnati. Paul was born at Batesville on October 11, 1987 the son of James and Bonnie Culley Miller. Survivors include his parents, his sister Lauren of Indianapolis, and his brother Chris Miller of Holton; paternal grandparents Ralph and Joyce Miller of Osgood; maternal grandfather William Culley of Indianapolis; several aunts, uncles, cousins, great-aunts and uncles, and many friends. He was preceded in death by his maternal grandmother Mrs. Bonnie Culley. Paul was a 2007 graduate of South Ripley High School where he participated as a student manager for the baseball and basketball teams. Paul was proud to have been associated with the Raider teams that won the 2004 boys basketball sectional and the 2006 and 2007 teams that won baseball sectionals. He was also a member of St. John’s Catholic Church in Osgood. A memorial mass will be held on Saturday, January 3^rd at 10:30am at St. John’s with Father Frank Eckstein and Father Shaun Whittington officiating. Rosary services will be conducted at 10am. Following mass, Paul’s family would like to have all their friends and family join them for a meal and a time of fellowship to celebrate Paul’s life at the South Ripley Elementary School at Versailles. Paul had fought a rare form of muscular dystrophy for many years so his body was donated to further the study of this disease. Memorials for Paul can be given to the Muscular Dystrophy Association or for a scholarship in Paul’s name through the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles.

Pauline L. Smith, 86, of Benham, formerly of Cross Plains, passed away Saturday, December 20, 2008 at her home. She was born in Switzerland County on June 2, 1922 the daughter of Henry and Mary Knollman Iceberg. She was married to Ervin Smith on June 6, 1942 and he preceded her in death on December 4, 1979. Survivors include two daughters, Phyllis Demaree of Versailles and Marsha (Gordon) Jones of Ft. Mill, South Carolina; 8 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, and one great-great grandchild. She was also preceded in death by her parents, her son Gary, her sister Irene Iceberg, and her brothers Harold, Leslie, and Melvin Iceberg. Mrs. Smith was a lifetime member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Dewberry. She was a homemaker and assisted her husband in farming. Funeral services will be held Tuesday, December 23^rd at 11am at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Dewberry with Pastor Ralph Campen officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Visitation will be Monday from 5pm to 8pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles and from 10am until time of services Tuesday at the church. Memorials may be given to St. Paul’s Cemetery in care of the funeral home.

Malcolm Roberts, 95, of Phoenix, Arizona passed away December 16, 2008 at the Hospice of Arizona in Peoria. He was born near Versailles on July 13, 1913 the son of Lester and Alma Roberts. He was married to Katherine Marie Doyle in 1938 and she preceded him in death on July 10, 2004. Survivor include one son Donald (Wanda) Roberts of Napoleon; one daughter Sandy (Don) Smith of Phoenix; 5 grandchildren. He was also preceded in death by his parents, and his brothers Raymond and Russell Roberts. Mr. Roberts was a retired carpenter and a member of the Versailles Baptist Church. Funeral services will be held Sunday, December 21^st at 1pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Rev. Rand Hooton officiating. Burial will be in the Washington Cemetery at Elrod. Visitation will be Sunday from 11am until time of services. Memorials may be given to the Versailles Baptist Church or the Washington Cemetery in care of the funeral home.

Josiah McMullen, one month old of Milan passed away Monday, December 15, 2008 at the Children’s Hospital in Cincinnati. He was born at Childrens on November 15, 2008 the son of Robert and Jennifer Crowell McMullen. Survivors besides his parents include one sister Cheyene McMullen; paternal grandparents Bob and Pam McMullen of Aurora and Cassie Metcalf of Sunman; maternal grandparents William and Judy Crowell of Plainfield and John and Mary Wilson of Martinsville; paternal great-grandparents Charles and Jo Metcalf of Sunman, Willie and Cosetta Davidson of Manchester, Kentucky, and Bob McMullen of Aurora; maternal great-grandfather Clarence Gunter of Napoleon. Funeral services will be held Saturday, December 20^th at the Cavehill Church of God near Versailles with Bro. Pearl Cornett officiating. Burial will be in the Hogan Hill Cemetery at Moores Hill. Visitation will be Saturday from 9am until time of services at the church. Memorials may be given to the donors choice in care of the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles.

Margaret R. Palmer, 83, of West Harrison passed away Thursday, December 11, 2008 at her home. She was born near New Marion on December 11, 1925 the daughter of Clarence and Flora Walter Kieffer. She was married to Glen Palmer on October 5, 1943 and he preceded her in death on January 25, 2005. Survivors include two sons Jimmy (Diana) Palmer of West Harrison and Darrel (Susan) Palmer of Harrison, Ohio; 3 grandchildren, Lori (Patrick) Trimble of Sunman, Jeni (Jeff) Christofferson of Indianapolis, and Dennis (Sarah) Palmer of Cincinnati; 6 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, brothers James and Raymond Kieffer, her sister Elnora Skeen, and her grandson Philip Palmer. Mrs. Palmer was a homemaker. She enjoyed gardening and fishing. Funeral services will be held Monday, December 15^th at 1pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles. Burial will be in the Marble Corner Cemetery at Versailles. Visitation will be Monday from 11am until time of services. Memorials may be made to the Dearborn County Animal Shelter in care of the funeral home.

Margaret C. Henneke, 94,of Osgood passed away Wednesday, December 10, 2008 at St. Andrew’s Health Campus in Batesville. She was born at Winchester on September 1, 1914 the daughter of Orval and Audra Rea Carroll. She was married to Dallas Henneke on October 18^th, 1938 and he preceded her in death on August 28, 2003. Survivors include one son Carroll (Josie) Henneke of Indianapolis; one daughter Audra (Butch) Gilmer also of Indianapolis; two granddaughters Shannon Milam of Carmel and Stacy Malone of Lakewood, Colorado; four great-grandchildren Cameron and Riley Milam and Jackson and Grace Malone; one brother Rea (Henrietta) Carroll of Osgood. She was preceded in death by her parents and her sisters Mabel Barth and Jean Chalk. Mrs. Henneke was a 1931 graduate of Osgood High School. She was a former bookkeeper for the Ripley County Farm Bureau and had been employed with the Osgood Journal and the Ripley County Bank. She had also assisted her husband in operating the State Farm Insurance Agency in Osgood. Funeral services will be held Saturday, December 13^th at 12pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles. Burial will be in the Tanglewood Cemetery. Visitation will be Saturday from 10am until time of services. Memorials may be given to the Tanglewood Cemetery in care of the funeral home.

George E. Andrew, 85,of Elrod passed away Sunday, December 7, 2008 at his home. He was born near Vevay on November 6, 1923 the son of Ethol and Mabel Rogers Andrew. He was married to Belva Hysell on June 11, 1948. Survivors include one son Rick (Sandy) Andrew of Elrod; two daughters Beverly Ellerman of Versailles and Darla (Joe) Eden of Milan; 5 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren; one sister Nell Jaynes of Anderson; brother-in-law John Lucas of Vevay. He was preceded in death by his parents, son-in-law James Ellerman, sisters Martha Burnett, Grace Jourdan, and Dorothy Lucas, and his brothers Ethol Andrew, Jr. and Dale Andrew. Mr. Andrew was an Army veteran of WWII and was a member of the Washington Baptist Church. He had worked as a district foreman for the Ripley County Highway Department retiring in 1999 and also had driven a bus for the Milan schools for nine years. He was a former 4-H leader for the Elrod Stars and had driven a milk truck. He enjoyed his garden and coon hunting. Funeral services will be held Thursday, December 11^th at 11am at the Washington Baptist Church with Rev. Bruce Fitzsimmons officiating. Burial will be in the Washington Cemetery with military graveside rites by the Versailles American Legion. Visitation will be Wednesday from 4pm to 8pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles and from 10am until time of services Thursday at the church. Memorials may be given to a fund for the family at the US Bank in Dillsboro or through the funeral home.

Belva D. Andrew, 80 of Elrod passed away Sunday, December 7, 2008 at her home. She was born near Vevay on June 15, 1928 the daughter of Clyde and Nora Phillips Hysell. She was married to George Andrew on June 11, 1948. Survivors include one son Rick (Sandy) Andrew of Elrod; two daughters Beverly Ellerman of Versailles and Darla (Joe) Eden of Milan; 5 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren; one sister Elma Jean Rayls of Vevay; one brother Lyonel Hysell of Madison. She was preceded in death by her parents, son-in-law James Ellerman, sisters Armeda Drake, Elaine Lock, and Saundra Hysell, and her brothers Meredith, Delmont, Lowell, Dorman, Dewayne, and Adrian Hysell. Mrs. Andrew was a 1946 graduate of Vevay High School and was a member of the Washington Baptist Church and the Ripley County Farm Bureau. She had been employed in housekeeping at the Waters of Dillsboro Manor for 27 years and had also worked at US Shoe in Vevay. She was a homemaker and a former 4-H leader for the Elrod Stars. She had also served as a custodian for the Washington Baptist Church. Funeral services will be held Thursday, December 11^th at 11am at the Washington Baptist Church in Elrod with Rev. Bruce Fitzsimmons officiating. Burial will be in the Washington Cemetery. Visitation will be Wednesday from 4pm to 8pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles and from 10am until time of services Thursday at the church. Memorials may be given to a fund established for the family at US Bank in Dillsboro or through the funeral home.

James “Pickle” Ellerman, 62, of Versailles passed away Thursday, December 4, 2008 at the Margaret Mary Hospital in Batesville. He was born at Milan on March 17, 1946 the son of Estol and Dortha Chance Ellerman. He was married to Beverly Andrew on August 9, 1969 and she survives. Other survivors include his father and mother-in-law George and Belva Andrew of Elrod; nieces Summer (Doug) Acra of Milan, Autumn Cameron of Hanover, Jennifer Mann of Bloomington, Susannah Mann of Versailles, and Jocelyn Eden of Milan; nephews Ricky (Mandy) Andrew of Dillsboro and Derick Cameron of Milan; two great nieces and one great nephew; friends Bill, Bobby, and Janie Browning. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister Marie Mann. Mr. Ellerman was a 1964 graduate of Versailles High School and was a member of the Tyson United Methodist Church. He was a 35 year employee of Seagrams and was also a farmer. He was also an accomplished guitarist having played music in the entire tri-state area. Funeral services will be held Monday, December 8^th at 11am at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles. Burial will be in the Ellerman-Blair Cemetery near Friendship. Visitation will be Sunday from 5pm to 8pm. Memorials may be given to the Diabetes Foundation of America or the South Ripley Classroom Teachers Scholarship Fund in care of the funeral home.

Sharon Rohrig, 68, of Osgood, formerly of New Marion passed away Tuesday, December 2, 2008 at the Manderley Health Care Center in Osgood. She was born in Three Oaks, Michigan on August 21, 1940 the daughter of Clarence and Izetta Harness Foster. She was married to George Rohrig on March 22, 1963 and he survives. Other survivors include one son Sammy Rohrig of Lakeland, Florida; three daughters Georgia Albury of Riverview, Florida, Sherri Higgins of Missouri, and Cindy Parker of Lakeland, Florida; two step-sons George Rohrig, Jr. of Osgood and Fred Rohrig of Pierceville; two step-daughters Sue Ellis of Dover, Florida and Rolena Newman of Seattle; 18 grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother Eugene Foster. Mrs. Rohrig was a member of the Holton Christian Church where she had served as church clerk and secretary. She was a also a member of the Mother’s Class. She had been a secretary for the Sterchy Furniture Company and a bookkeeper for Beard Real Estate both in Lakeland, Florida. Funeral services will be held Friday, December 5^th at 11am at the Holton Christian Church with Bro. Bob McCreary officiating. Burial will be in the New Marion Cemetery. Visitation will be Thursday from 5pm to 8pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles and from 10am until time of services Friday at the church. Memorials may be given to the Holton Christian Church or the New Marion Cemetery in care of the funeral home.

Betty E. Martin, 91, of Milan, formerly of Fairmount, passed away Tuesday, November 25, 2008 at the Ripley Crossing in Milan. She was born at Marion on January 4, 1917 the daughter of John and Inez Vetor Seigel. She was married to William Kenneth Martin in 1940 and he preceded her in death in 1973. Survivors include one son Michael (Marsha) Martin of Milan; 2 grandchildren and one great-grandchild; one brother George Seigel of Fairmount; brother-in-law Ralph Spence of Overland Park, Kansas; sister-in-law Jane Allen of Columbus. She was preceded in death by her parents and her grandson. Mrs. Martin was a 1934 graduate of Fairmount High School. She past president of the PIHICHI Sorority and a former manager of the OI Credit Union in Gas City. Graveside services will be held at 11am on Saturday, January 3, 2009 at the Fairmount Cemetery. Memorials may be given to Ripley Crossing or the American Heart Association in care of the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home.

Blaine Burchett, 96, of O’Fallon, Illinois, formerly of Versailles passed away Monday, November 24, 2008 at the Marka Nursing Home in Mascoutah, Illinois. He was born at West Liberty, Kentucky on March 5, 1912 the son of John and Louellen Combs Burchett. He was married to Edith Castle and she preceded him in death in 1981. Survivors include two sons Hezzie Burchett of Blanchester, Ohio and Bob Burchett of Florence, Alabama; two daughters Brenda Cornett and Janie Layson both of O’Fallon. Mr. Burchett was a self employed carpenter. Visitation will be Friday at 11am at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with graveside services following at 12pm at the Tanglewood Cemetery.

Shirley Lanham, 73, of Canaan passed away Monday, November 17, 2008 at the Clark Memorial Hospital in Jeffersonville. She was born at Springfield, Ohio on October 12, 1935 the daughter of Frederick and Florence Kyle Krumm. She was married to Paul Lanham on June 22, 1956 and he preceded her in death on September 11, 1996. Survivors include one son Charles Lanham of Madison; three daughters Ana (Magno) Lanham and Karen (William) De Freitas both of Goianai, Brazil, and Sharon Lanham of Atlanta; 10 grandchildren; one brother Homer Krumm of Fairborn, Ohio. Mrs. Lanham attended the Cincinnati Bible College. Her and her husband began missionary work in Brazil in 1959 where Mrs. Lanham specialized in teaching and translating from English to Portuguese. The work that her and her husband began nearly 50 years ago continues today through Christ’s Mission to Brazil. Funeral services will be held Friday, November 21^st at 11am at the Versailles Church of Christ with Bro. Joe McKay officiating. Visitation will be Friday from 9am until time of services at the church. Memorials may be given to the Christ Mission to Brazil in care of the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles.

Loredith (Bea) Rudd, 80, of North Vernon passed away Sunday, November 16, 2008 at her home. She was born at Cannel City in Morgan County, Kentucky on June 28, 1928 the daughter of G. B. and Ora Francis Nickell. She was married to Rev. Garland Rudd on April 17, 1948 and he survives. Other survivors include one son Ronald (Ginny) Rudd of Westport; one daughter, Sheila (Dennis) Schuler of North Vernon; 8 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren; four sisters, Lavodis Walton and Elizabeth McPherson both of Fairborn, Ohio, Lillian Perkins of Malone, Kentucky, and Catherine Ferry of Yellow Springs, Ohio; two brothers, Edsel Nickell of Fairborn, Ohio and James (Bud) Nickell of Lexington, Kentucky. She was preceded in death by her parents, her daughter Gail Leudeke, and her brothers Venice, Denzil, and Emzil Nickell. Mrs. Rudd was a homemaker and had worked by her husband’s side in pastoring the Cedar Creek Community Church near Osgood since 1963. Funeral services will be held Wednesday, November 19^th at 10:30am at the Cedar Creek Community Church. Burial will be in the Vernon Cemetery. Visitation will be Tuesday from 5pm to 8pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles and from 9:30am until time of services Wednesday at the church. Memorials may be given to the Cedar Creek Community Church in care of the funeral home.

Leona M. Middleton, 77, of Lawrenceburg passed away Tuesday, November 11, 2008 at University Hospital in Cincinnati. She was born near Elrod on April 17, 1931 the daughter of Orvin and Mary Peaslee Boyd. She was married to Robert Middleton on December 27, 1952 and he preceded her in death on November 9, 2001. Survivors include one aunt, Mrs. Rosetta Bradley of Rising Sun; cousins Mary Shockey of Versailles, Fern Day of Connersville, and Marie Gilmore of Rising Sun. Mrs. Middleton was a 1950 graduate of Versailles High School. She retired in 1990 as a medical secretary for Dr. Henry Conrad in Lawrenceburg. Funeral services will be held Friday, November 14^th at 11am at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Rev. Bruce Fitzsimmons of the Washington Baptist Church officiating. Burial will be in the Oakdale Cemetery at Dillsboro. Visitation will be Friday from 10am until time of services at the funeral home. Memorials may be given to the Dearborn County Animal Shelter in care of the funeral home.

Evelyn A. Menchhofer, 88, of Osgood passed away Monday, November 10, 2008 at the Margaret Mary Hospital in Batesville. She was born at Seymour on February 28, 1920 the daughter of Charles and Ethel Bare Parker. She was married to Floyd Menchhofer on March 23, 1941 and he survives. Other survivors include one son William (Emma) Menchhofer of Osgood; five grandchildren, Tom (Melissa) Menchhofer of Holton, Tammy (Randall) Miller of Versailles, Teresa (Alan) Kramer, Tina (Marvin) Kramer, and Todd (Sharon) Menchhofer all of Greensburg; 12 great-grandchildren; two sisters, Carolyn (Burton) Rodman of Florida and Marilyn (Roger) Christenson of Colorado. She was preceded in death by her parents and her half-sister Blanche. Mrs. Menchhofer was a 1939 graduate of Osgood High School and was a member of the Tanglewood Baptist Church. She was formerly employed with Banner’s 5 & 10, Walt’s Hardware, Vollmer’s Dairy Way, and the Ripley County Farm Bureau, all in Osgood. Funeral services will be held Thursday, November 13^th at 11am at the Tanglewood Baptist Church with Rev. Russell Stephens officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Visitation will be Wednesday from 5pm to 8pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles and from 10am until time of services Thursday at the church. Memorials may be given to the Tanglewood Cemetery in care of the funeral home.

Thomas C. Skelton, 84, of Versailles passed away Friday, October 31, 2008 at the Margaret Mary Hospital in Batesville. He was born at Mineral Springs, Indiana on September 24, 1924 the son of William and Edith Thompson Skelton. He was married to Betty Miller Hoeferkamp on November 10, 1984 and she survives. Other survivors include one step-son David (Lisa) Hoeferkamp of Mishawaka; one step-daughter-in-law Debbie Hoeferkamp of New Marion; 5 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and his step-son Dennis Hoeferkamp. Mr. Skelton was a 32 year employee of Arvins in Columbus and was a former resident Bartholomew County. He was a member of the Versailles Church of Christ. Funeral services will be held Tuesday, November 4^th at 11am at the Versailles Church of Christ with Dale Day officiating. Burial will be in the Cliff Hill Cemetery at Versailles. Visitation will be Tuesday from 10am until time of services at the church. Memorials may be given to the Versailles Church of Christ in care of the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles.

Joann R. Martin, 75, of Versailles passed away Thursday, October 30, 2008 at the Kings Daughters Hospital in Madison. She was born in Cincinnati on April 25, 1933 the daughter of Robert and Ann Hall. She was married to Orville Martin on January 11, 1963 and he preceded her in death on May 2, 2004. Survivors include four sons, David (Natasha) Martin of Versailles, Robert (Nancy) Martin of Madison, Ricky Simone of North Vernon, and Mike Simone of Houston, Texas; one daughter Sharon Wingfield of Humble, Texas; one step-son Gary (Kathy) Martin of Milton, Kentucky; one step-daughter Jeanie Martin Stroobandt of Lawrenceburg; 13 grandchildren, 7 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great grandchildren. She was also preceded in death by her parents, her son Russell, and 2 grandsons. Mrs. Martin was a former employee of South Ripley High School where she worked as a cook. She was also a homemaker. Funeral services will be held Monday, November 3^rd at 10:30am at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Dale Day officiating. Burial will be in the Grandview Memorial Garden at Madison. Visitation will be Sunday from 5pm to 7pm. Memorials may be given to the donor’s choice.

Shirley E. Rinear-Evans, 74, of Versailles passed away Tuesday, October 28, 2008 at the Ripley Crossing in Milan. She was born in Cincinnati on August 27, 1934 the daughter of Walter and Thelma Trouts Stevens and was raised by Peggy Leonard. Survivors include one daughter Pamela (Barry) Kermeen of Columbia, Kentucky; four sons William (Linda) Rinear of Cincinnati, Steven (Nilda) Rinear of Indian Springs, Ohio, Scott (Jennifer) Rinear of Osgood, and Kevin (Jodi) Rinear of Versailles; one step-son Gary (Shari) Evans of Cincinnati; 13 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren; two sisters, Joyce Scarbrough of Vero Beach, Florida and Gloria Wainscott of Kentucky. She was preceded in death by her husband Robert Evans and her parents. Mrs. Evans was a member of the Washington Baptist Church in Elrod and had worked as a communications operator for Providence Hospital in Cincinnati. Memorial services will be held Saturday, November 1^st at 11am at the Washington Baptist Church in Elrod with Rev. Bruce Fitzsimmons officiating. Visitation will be Saturday from 9am until time of services. Memorials may be given to the donors choice in care of the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles.

Roberta Fugate, 67, of Holton passed away Sunday, October 26, 2008 at her home. She was born at DeKalb, Illinois on February 9, 1941 the daughter of Robert and Marjorie Mae Elliott Meredith. She was married to Kenneth Paul Long in 1961 and he preceded her in death in 1980. She was married to William Edward Fugate on March 26, 1996 and he survives. Other survivors include one daughter SuElla (Randy) Jordan of Cincinnati; her mother Mrs. Marjorie Meredith of Hanover; step-daughter Carol Fugate of Osgood; step-granddaughter Abby Jordan of Cincinnati. She was also preceded in death by her father and her sister June Kelly. Mrs. Fugate was a 1958 graduate of Southwestern High School at Hanover and had attended the Spenserian Business College in Louisville. She worked for 15 years as a secretary in the engineering division of the Jefferson Proving Ground. Visitation will be Friday, October 31^st from 5pm to 8pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles. There will be no services. Memorials may be given to the Ripley County Humane Society in care of the funeral home.

Judith S. Eaton, 67, of Versailles passed away Tuesday, October 21, 2008 at the Hospice of St. Vincent’s in Indianapolis. She was born at Anderson on February 3, 1941 the daughter of Russell and Mary Phelps Shoemaker. She was married to Larry Eaton on June 1, 1963 and he survives. Other survivors include one son Nicholas (Stacey) Eaton of Carmel; one daughter Kristin (Paul, Jr.) Fasbinder of Vernon Hills, Illinois; four grandchildren, Ryan and Kyle Fasbinder and Ally and Seth Eaton; one brother William Shoemaker of Anderson; her mother-in-law Mrs. Thelma Eaton of Napoleon. Mrs. Eaton was a1959 graduate of Anderson High School. She received her BA degree in English from Butler University in 1963 and her Master’s degree from Indiana University in 1965. She taught school at Howe High School in Indianapolis, Sunman, East Central, and finished her teaching career retiring from Jac-Cen-Del High School. She was an accomplished water color artist and had shown her work in many art shows throughout the Midwest and had been named Color Artist of the year. She had also served as a director for the local Community Theatre. Mrs. Eaton was a member of St. Peter’s United Church of Christ at Finks Corner, a member of the Versailles-Osgood Associate Chapter of Tri-Kappa, signature member of the Water Color Society of Indiana, Kappa Delta Sorrority of IU, and the Southeastern Indiana Art Society. Funeral services will be held Saturday, October 25^th at 11am at St. Peter’s United Church of Christ at Finks Corner with Rev. Karyl Leslie officiating. Visitation will be Friday from 4pm to 8pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles and from 10am until time of services Saturday at the church. Memorials may be made to the Jac-Cen-Del Scholarship Fund, the church building fund, or the National Kidney Foundation in care of the funeral home.

Omer Powers, 71,of Holton passed away Sunday, October 19, 2008 at his home. He was born at Rodney in Decatur County on May 14, 1937 the son of John and Marjorie Giddings Powers. He was married to Judy Cole on October 5, 1979 and she survives. Other survivors include three sons, Richard Powers and Melvin (Brittany) Powers both of Lexington, Tennessee, and Thomas (Penny) Powers of Westport; three daughters, Marjorie (Sug) Reeves, Michelle Powers, and Sara (Armando) Martinez all of Lexington, Tennessee; 10 grandchildren, several step-grandchildren and great-grandchildren; his mother-in-law Mrs. Ruth Cole of Holton; two sisters, Bertha (Donnie) Dean and Ruth Ann Moore both of Greensburg. He was preceded in death by his parents, his children Janie and Paul, and his brothers Lester and Russell Powers. Mr. Powers was employed with Ames True-Temper of North Vernon for 37 years. Funeral services will be held Thursday, October 23^rd at 2pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles. Burial will be in the Greendale Cemetery at Osgood. Visitation will be Wednesday from 5pm to 8pm. Memorials may be given to the donors choice.

Emma Lue Michel, 88, of Osgood passed away Wednesday, October 15, 2008 at her home. She was born at Osgood on September 7, 1920 the daughter of Henry and Mercy Bilby Humphrey. She was married to Melvin Michel on July 5, 1941 and he preceded her in death on October 17, 1985. Survivors include two daughters, Carole Michel of Osgood and Jenny Lou (George) Schwipps of Milan; grandchildren Ben (Jessica) Schwipps of Osgood and Andi (Terry) Allison of San Ramon, California; great-grandchildren Ryan and Evan Schwipps; two nieces, Jamie Stratton of Lafayette and Janine Stratton of Holton. She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother James Humphrey. Mrs. Michel was a 1938 graduate of Osgood High School. She was a kindergarten teacher, having started a kindergarten in Versailles and later teaching in Osgood. She was a member of St. John’s Catholic Church in Osgood, Tri-Kappa, Red Cross, and the Ripley County Democrat Women’s club. She was also past president of the Osgood Entre Nous and the Ripley County chapter of the Indiana Federation of Clubs. Mrs. Michel enjoyed reading, traveling, and music. A memorial mass will be held Tuesday, October 21^st at 10am at St. John’s Catholic Church in Osgood with Father Frank Eckstein officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Visitation will be Tuesday at 9am at the church. Memorials may be given to the Ripley County Humane Society in care of the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles.

Russell McGuire, 77, of Versailles passed away Thursday, October 9, 2008 at his home. He was born at Caney in Morgan County, Kentucky on February 10, 1931 the son of Green and Monnie Bailey McGuire. He was married to Juanita Tinch on June 3, 1953 and she preceded him in death on October 31, 1999. He was married to Sheila Lee on December 27, 2001 and she survives. Other survivors include one son, Von (Vickie) McGuire of Versailles; two daughters, Guyeula (Olgust) Bowling of Middletown, Ohio, and Rhonda (Tim) Taylor of Rexville; two step-sons, Rick Humphrey of Indianapolis and Frank (Lisa) Humphrey of Greenwood; one step-daughter Kim (Rich) Woehler of Indianapolis; 7 grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren, 9 step-grandchildren, and 2 step-great-grandchildren; five sisters, Magdalene Robinson, Janice (Dean) Turner, and Shirley Willis all of Franklin, Ohio, Helen (Jim) Fletcher of North Vernon, and Ellarose (Gary) Johnson of Springboro, Ohio; five brothers, Ray (Annabee) McGuire, James (Cassie) McGuire, and Robert (Patricia) McGuire all of Franklin, Ohio, Jackie (Janice) McGuire, and Forest McGuire both of Rexville. He was also preceded in death by his parents, his brothers Clyde and Michael, and his great-granddaughter Savannah Woodham. Mr. McGuire was an accomplished musician having recorded various albums and cd’s. He was also well known in the local area for playing at many weddings and funerals. He attended the Cedar Creek Community Church and was a supervisor for Milestone Contractors. He was also an Army veteran of the Korean War. Funeral services will be held Monday, October 13^th at 10:30am at the Cedar Creek Community Church with Rev. Garland Rudd officiating. Graveside services will be held Monday at 1:30pm at the Wood Hill Cemetery in Franklin, Ohio with military graveside rites by the Franklin VFW post 7596. Visitation will be Sunday from 4pm to 8pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles and from 9:30am until time of services Monday at the church. Memorials may be given to the Hospice of South Central Indiana or the American Cancer Society in care of the funeral home.

Elizabeth Danner, 92, of Alexandria, Kentucky, formerly of Versailles, passed away Sunday, October 5, 2008 at the home of her niece. She was born at Alexandria on April 8, 1916 the daughter of Andy and Anna Hess Trapp. She was married to Claude Maggard in 1943 and he preceded her in death in 1972. She was married to Robert Danner in 1974 and he preceded her in death in 1987. Survivors include one nephew Tom Trapp and one niece Brenda Trapp-Johnson both of Alexandria along with several great nieces and nephews. She was also preceded in death by her parents and her brother Henry Trapp. Mrs. Danner was a 1935 graduate of Campbell County High School where she was valedictorian of her senior class and was a 1941 graduate of Eastern Kentucky University. She began her school teaching career in Kentucky in 1937 and retired at Versailles in 1980. She taught at Campbell County, Williamsburg, Ohio, Jacksonburg, Ohio, and locally at New Marion and Versailles. She was a member of the Versailles Baptist Church, Ripley County Retired Teachers, Campbell County Teachers Association, and the Northern Kentucky Teachers Association. Funeral services will be held Tuesday, October 7^th at 12pm at the Versailles Baptist Church with Rev. Don Humphrey officiating. Burial will be in the Cliff Hill Cemetery at Versailles. Visitation will be Tuesday from 11am until time of services at the church. Memorials may be given to the Versailles Baptist Church in care of the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home.

Virginia Risk, 56, of Hobart, formerly of Versailles passed away Friday, September 26, 2008 at the Porter Memorial Hospital in Valparaiso. She was born at Milan on March 5, 1952 the daughter of W. Gordon and Louise Batchelor Hughes. She is survived by her mother Mrs. Louise Hughes of Greenwood; daughters Jennifer (Rob) Vawter of Rock Hill, South Carolina, Kimberly (Scott) Funke, and Kaylene Wagner both of Hobart; sisters, Sally (Bobby) Wetzler and Joy (Ken) Cappel both of Versailles, Ethel Snyder of Grandview, Washington, and Dawn (Chris) Kamman of Greenwood. She was preceded in death by her father and an infant brother and sister. Ms. Risk was employed with Resorts Casino in East Chicago as a security guard. She was a 1970 graduate of South Ripley High School and was also a former employee of the Ripley County Area Planning Commission. Funeral services will be held Monday, September 29^th at 2pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles. Burial will be in the Benham Cemetery. Visitation will be Monday from 12pm until time of services. Memorials may be given to the American Cancer Society in care of the funeral home.

Kathie E. Sanders, 64, of Versailles passed away Monday, September 22, 2008 at the Margaret Mary Community Hospital in Batesville. She was born at Madison on December 30, 1943 the daughter of Clyde and Lillian Cracraft Smith. She was married to Ray Sanders on February 14, 1988 and he survives. Other survivors include one son Kevin (Cindy) Oleckniche of Hamilton, Ohio; grandchildren Chad, Hope Grace, and Faith Oleckniche; step-sons Dennis (Lisa) Sanders and Mike (Evie) Sanders both of Versailles; step-daughters Linda (Charles) Shockey of Indianapolis and Patricia Renfro of Kentucky; one brother Leroy Smith of Morristown; sister-in-law Helen Smith of Versailles. She was preceded in death by her parents, her brother Leon Smith, and her sister Joan Benham. Mrs. Sanders was currently employed with the Ripley County Clerk’s office. She was retired from the ASCS office in Versailles and had also been employed with Empire Gas in Osgood. She was a member of the Versailles Baptist Church where she served as a deaconess. Funeral services will be held Thursday, September 25^th at 11am at the Versailles Baptist Church with Rev. Don Humphrey officiating. Burial will be in the Cliff Hill Cemetery. Visitation will be held Wednesday from 5pm to 8pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles and from 10am until time of services Thursday at the church. Memorials may be given to the Cliff Hill Cemetery in care of the funeral home.

Theresa Jane Adams, 71, of Osgood passed away Friday, September 19, 2008 at the Manderley Health Care Center in Osgood. She was born near Versailles on July 15, 1937 the daughter of Charles and Theresa Beach Kemker. She was married to Herschel Adams on August 14, 1960 and he preceded her in death on June 28, 2004. Survivors include two sons, Kevin Adams of Concord, North Carolina and Alan Adams of Miami, Florida; one daughter Phyllis Holman of Seymour; 7 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren; two brothers, Bine Kemker and Lloyd “Butch” Kemker both of Osgood; three sisters, Cody Holt of Versailles, Norma Suttman of Oldenburg, and Pat Morris of Moores Hill. She was preceded in death by her parents, her brother Lee, and her sisters Doris Smith and Daisy Linzy. Mrs. Adams was a 1956 graduate of Versailles High School. She was a former resident of Greenwood and was a homemaker. Her and her husband attended the Dabney Baptist Church. Funeral services will be held Tuesday, September 23^rd at 11am at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles. Burial will be in the Dabney Cemetery. Visitation will be Tuesday from 10am until time of services. Memorials may be given to the donors choice.

Russell F. May, 84, of Hanover passed away Monday, September 15, 2008 at the Kings Daughters Hospital in Madison. He was born near Benham in Ripley County on January 28, 1924 the son of William H. and Alta Tunks May. He was married to Ottilie (Margaret) Kraus on June 28, 1969 and she survives. Other survivors include one son Fred R. George of Lawrenceburg; one daughter Lucia L. Landry of Pennsylvania; 5 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren; two brothers, Estol May of Dallas and Earl May of Rexville; three sisters, Lora Swinney of Versailles, Lila Ziegler of Greensburg, and Evelyn Meek of Madison. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brothers Stanley May and Leroy May. Mr. May was a veteran of WWII where he served with the 93^rd Cavalry Re-Con Squad in the Rhineland of Central Europe. He was awarded the Good Conduct Medal and the European Theatre Ribbon with two bronze stars. He had worked for the Ripley County Highway Department, Jefferson Proving Ground, and had farmed. He was a member of the Versailles American Legion, Ripley County Voiture 40 & 8, and attended the First Assembly of God at Madison. Funeral services will be held Thursday, September 18^th at 10:30am at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles. Burial will be in the Grandview Memorial Garden at Madison with military graveside rites by the Versailles American Legion. Visitation will be Wednesday from 5pm to 7pm. Memorials may be given to the donors choice.

Gary S. Champe, 59, of Dillsboro passed away Tuesday, September 2, 2008 at the University Hospital in Cincinnati. He was born at Knoxville, Tennessee on March 12, 1949 the son of Allen and Doris Case Champe. He was married to Beverly Chipman on May 17, 2003 and she survives. Other survivors include his mother Doris Champe of Dillsboro. Mr. Champe was US Army Retired having served 25 years in the military. He was a former POW and had served three tours of duty in Vietnam. He received three Commendation Medals, two Achievement Medals, and the Good Conduct Medal. He was also a five time World Champion skeet shooter. He was a gold medallist in 1992 in the United Kingdom Open and also in the 1993 Euro Cup. He was also a four time gold medallist in the 1994 world championship and was a member of the Skeet Hall of Fame. He was a member of the Tyson United Methodist Church at Versailles and the Versailles American Legion. Funeral services will be held Saturday, September 6^th at 3pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Rev. James Byerly of the Tyson United Methodist Church officiating. Burial will be in the Indiana Veterans Cemetery at Madison with full military honors. Visitation will be Saturday from 1pm until time of services. Memorials may be given to the Ripley County Humane Society in care of the funeral home.

Florence R. Cardinal, 91, of Versailles passed away Wednesday, September 3, 2008 at her home. She was born near Benham on October 6, 1916 the daughter of Charles and Julia Mathews Meisberger. She was married to Dale Cardinal on February 18, 1938 and he preceded her in death on December 27, 1991. Survivors include two sons, James (Aileen) Cardinal of Versailles and Ronald (Brenda) Cardinal of Deputy; three daughters, Wanda (Ben) Adams of Indianapolis, Leslie Elaine Rouquet of Versailles, and Janet (Dennis) Richardson of Pierceville; 18 grandchildren, 45 great-grandchildren, and 11 great-great-grandchildren; two sisters, Opal Day of Versailles and Millie (Damon) Webster of Cross Plains; one sister-in-law Gertrude Meisberger of New Marion. She was preceded in death by her parents, her son Harold Keith Cardinal, son-in-law Denny Rouquet, and her brothers Rom, Charles, and Howard Meisberger. Mrs. Cardinal was a cook at Lake Dilldear and had also managed Tom’s 50-50 grill at the Wye at Versailles. She was a member of the First Southern Baptist Church at Versailles and enjoyed fishing, quilting, and crocheting. Funeral services will be held Saturday, September 6^th at 10:30am at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Rev. Garland Rudd officiating. Burial will be in the Benham Cemetery. Visitation will be Friday from 5pm to 8pm. Memorials may be given to the Benham Cemetery in care of the funeral home.

Norma Brandes, 86, of Versailles passed away Thursday, August 28, 2008 at the Hospice of Cincinnati at Blue Ash. She was born near Benham on October 15, 1921 the daughter of George and Florence Westrick Vanosdol. She was married to Ralph Brandes and he preceded her in death on April 7, 2000. Survivors include one son Darrell Scott of Versailles; one daughter Diane (Roy) Carter of Alma, Georgia; 5 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, and 5 great-great-grandchildren; four step-sons, Linden Brandes of Brookville, Ralph Brandes III and Gregory Brandes both of Milan, and Gary Brandes of Batesville; her sister-in-law Virginia Vanosdol of Rushville. She was preceded in death by her parents, her brother Roscoe Vanosdol, and her daughter-in-law Janet Scott. Mrs. Brandes was a 1940 graduate of Cross Plains High School. She was a former employee of the Delaney Wood Heel Factory in Versailles, US Shoe at Osgood, Reliance Electric, and retired as a cook at South Ripley High School. She was a 51 year member of the Versailles Baptist Church where she participated and volunteered on many levels. She was also a member of the Versailles Chapter of the Eastern Star, the Do-A-Lot Home Economics Club, and the Ripley County Red Hatters. Mrs. Brandes enjoyed traveling and spending time with her family and was an avid card player. Funeral services will be held Monday, September 1^st at 10:30am at the Versailles Baptist Church with Rev. Don Humphrey officiating. Burial will be in the Benham Cemetery. Visitation will be Sunday from 5pm to 8pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Eastern Star services at 8pm. Memorials may be given to the Versailles Baptist Church building fund in care of the funeral home.

Edith M. Bree, 90, of North Vernon, formerly of Versailles, passed away Wednesday, August 13, 2008 at St. Vincent’s Hospital in Indianapolis. She was born near Napoleon on December 4, 1917 the daughter of Charles and Carrie Wagner Spreckelson. She was married to James J. Bree in 1935 and he preceded her in death in 1965. Survivors include two sons, James E. Bree of North Vernon and John (Diane) Bree of Lawrenceburg; four daughters, Janice Bree of Milan, Judy (Timothy) White of Florence, Kentucky, Barbara (Harry) Shomaker of Rowlette, Texas, and Ellen Ledford of Greensburg; also a granddaughter and great-grandchildren whom she helped raise including Deanna Haley of North Vernon, Chrishana Creech-Hadley, Tamra Roe, and Erica Kieffer. She was preceded in death by her parents, her sons Kenneth, Frederick, and Robert, and her daughter Carol. Mrs. Bree was the oldest living member of the Versailles Church of Christ where she participated in the Helping Hands women’s group. She enjoyed embroidering, quilting, and gardening. Funeral services will be held Saturday, August 16^th at 3pm at the Versailles Church of Christ with Dale Day officiating. Burial will be in the Forest Hill Cemetery in Moores Hill. Visitation will be Saturday from 1pm until time of services at the church. Memorials may be given to the donors choice in care of the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles.

Carlos L. Hardy, 63, of Seymour, formerly of Holton passed away Sunday, August 10, 2008 at the Dubois County Memorial Hospital in Jasper. He was born in Cincinnati on April 12, 1945 the son of George and Florence Pflum Hardy. Survivors include one daughter Carla Beverly of Holton; grandchildren Alax and Megan Furnish; brothers George Hardy, Jr. of Kentucky and Gary Hardy of Versailles; sisters Carol Stinson of North Vernon, Marlene Holloway of Ludlow, Kentucky, and Mary Lou Embry of Kentucky. He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Helen Hartbarger, and his brother Stewart “Pete” Hardy. Mr. Hardy was a former employee of the Jefferson Proving Ground and was currently employed with Crane Army Ammunition Activity at Crane, Indiana. Mr. Hardy was an Army veteran of the Vietnam War. Funeral services will be held Thursday, August 14^th at 11am at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles. Burial will be in the Cliff Hill Cemetery in Versailles with military graveside rites by the Versailles American Legion. Visitation will be Wednesday from 5pm to 8pm. Memorials may be given to the Versailles American Legion in care of the funeral home.

Vicki Chandler, 49, of Cross Plains passed away Saturday, August 9, 2008 at the Kings Daughters Hospital in Madison. She was born at Louisville on June 11, 1959 the daughter of Thomas and Anna Hazelwood Reed. She was married to Jeff Chandler on May 17, 1985 and he survives. Other survivors include three sons, Tim (Erin) Chandler of Campbellsburg, Charlie (Chasity) Chandler of Hanover, and Dylan Chandler of Cross Plains; grandchildren Jasmine, Austin, and Cooper; her step-mother Linda Reed of Litchfield, Kentucky; brothers Dale Reed, Tommy (Lisa) Reed, and Jason (Marci) Reed all of Litchfield; sisters Dee Dee Smith of Missouri and Stephanie (Roy) Hack of Litchfield. She was preceded in death by her parents, her son Michael Wayne Hockenberry, her granddaughter Emma, and her brother Wally Reed. Mrs. Chandler was a member of the Cross Plains Church of Christ and was a former employee of Mike and Ted’s Video in Versailles. She loved to read, raise flowers, and enjoyed her family vacations to the Atlantic Ocean in Myrtle Beach and Florida. She also enjoyed raising sheep on the farm she loved with her husband. Funeral services will be held Wednesday, August 13^th at 11am at the Cross Plains Church of Christ with Bro. Logan Fugate and Evangelist Barry Kermeen officiating. Burial will be in the Salem Cemetery at Cross Plains. Visitation will be Tuesday from 5pm to 9pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles and from 10am until time of services Wednesday at the church. Memorials may be given to the Salem Cemetery in care of the funeral home.

James J. Whitehead, 71, of Versailles passed away Friday, August 1, 2008 at the Methodist Hospital in Indianapolis. He was born at North Vernon on August 20, 1936 the son of George D. and Doris Taskey Whitehead. He was married to Sharon Vinson on October 25, 1963 and she survives. Other survivors include three sons, James D. (Natalie) Whitehead of Canton, Georgia, Gary (Amy) Whitehead of Murfreesboro, Tennessee, and Jay (Sandy) Whitehead of Sunman; grandchildren Jerel, Valaree, Baylee, Derek, Zakry, Jozephine, Margo, Emily, Taylor, and Carson; two brothers, Charles Whitehead of Westport and George Whitehead, Jr. of Clarksville. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister Helen Wilds. Mr. Whitehead was a 1956 graduate of North Vernon High School and received his CLU degree from American College in Washington DC in 1991. He was a 40 year member of the Tyson United Methodist Church in Versailles where he served as a Trustee, Sunday School teacher, and lay leader. He also attended the Sylvan-Abby United Methodist Church in Safety Harbor, Florida. He was a 50 year member of the Versailles Lions Club and had the unique distinction of 50 years of perfect attendance. He served in the Indiana National Guard, was president of the Harbor Town Condominium Association in Clearwater, Florida, president of the Central Indiana Investment Club, a member of the River City Classic Car Club, and helped organize and served as president of the NALU. Mr. Whitehead worked as an Agency Manager for Farm Bureau Insurance for 29 years retiring in 1995, serving at agencies in Osgood, Madison, Brookville, Batesville, and Vevay. In 1977 he earned the Governor Agency Manager Award. Jim’s passions included his grandchildren, fishing, golfing, traveling, his Florida home, classic cars, and having coffee with his buddies at the Versailles McDonalds and at the Paradise Restaurant in Florida. Mr. Jim Whitehead was an organ donor. Memorial services will be held Saturday, August 9^th at 11am at the Tyson United Methodist Church in Versailles with Rev. Jim Byerly officiating. Visitation will be Friday from 5pm to 8pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles and from 10am until time of services Saturday at the church. Memorials may be given to the Tyson United Methodist Church Endowment Fund for Scholarships in care of the funeral home.

Anna Mae Waldo, 91,of Versailles passed away Thursday, July 31, 2008 at her home. She was born at Spring Lake in Kenton County, Kentucky on March 16, 1917 the daughter of James and Martha Huffman Culbertson. She was married to James A. Waldo in 1935 and he preceded her in death in 1964. Survivors include one son James (Jim) Waldo of Versailles; one daughter Jean Thompson of Indianapolis; 7 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren; one sister Margaret Maxwell of Greensburg. She was also preceded in death by her parents, her son William Waldo, and her brothers James and Robert Culbertson. Mrs. Waldo was a former employee of the Spencer-Tyson Pharmacy, Hunter’s Hardware in Versailles, and also Seagram’s. She also had also operated an upholstery shop in her home. She had enjoyed quilting and through the years had made many cheerleading and majorette outfits for local children as well as prom dresses. Funeral services will be held Monday, August 4^th at 11am at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Randy Thieman of the Shelby Christian Church officiating. Burial will be in the Highland Cemetery in Fort Mitchell, Kentucky. Visitation will be Monday from 10am until time of services. Memorials may be given to the Diabetes Foundation or Rescue 69 in care of the funeral home.

Virginia Geisler, 85, of Versailles passed away Friday, July 18, 2008 at the Waters of Dillsboro Manor. She was born near Osgood on March 29, 1923 the daughter of Samuel and Josephine Hutson McClure. She was married to Delver Geisler on January 17, 1942 and he preceded her in death on May 16, 1981. Survivors include three sons, Jerry (Susan) Geisler of Lawrenceburg, Johnnny (Gloria) of Akron, Ohio, and Pastor Jeff (Vicky) Geisler of Fort Wayne; Ten grandchildren and ten great grandchildren. She was also preceded in death by her parents, her sisters Eva Curran and Carrie Stewart and one brother Aaron. Mrs. Geisler was a member of the Tyson United Methodist Church and a 61-year member of the Versailles American Legion Auxiliary. She was formerly employed with the Versailles IGA and Ohio Rod. Funeral services will be held Wednesday, July 23^rd at 1pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Rev. James Byerly officiating. Burial will be in the Cliff Hill Cemetery in Versailles. Visitation will be Wednesday from 11am until time of services at 1pm. Memorials may be given to the Tyson United Methodist Church in care of the funeral home.

William M. Gilliland, 95, of Olean passed away Saturday, July 12, 2008 at the Ripley Crossing in Milan. He was born near Cross Plains on November 20, 1912 the son of Rolla and Emma Kroeger Gilliland. He was married to Esther Linkmeyer Schwake on October 26, 1968 and she survives. Other survivors include one step-daughter Sharon Spencer of Madison; grandchildren Debbie (Robert ) Hudson of Columbus, Teresa (Shad) Gerth and Marsha (John) Uhl both of Madison; six great-grandchildren; sisters-in-law Dorothy Gilliland of Milan and Eleanor Gilliland of Indianapolis. He was preceded in death by his parents, his sisters Edna Tinker and Opal Stahl, and his brothers Howard and Russell Gilliland Mr. Gilliland was a 1930 graduate of Cross Plains High School and had been employed with Capital Coil in Cincinnati. He served in the Army during WWII from 1942 to 1945 as a cook with the 157^th Infantry. Mr. Gilliland received the EAME Theatre Ribbon with five bronze stars, the American Defense Service Medal, and the Good Conduct Medal. He served in campaigns in Sicily, Naples, Rome, Southern France, and the Rhineland. He was a member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Olean, the Brown Township American Legion, the Versailles Masonic Lodge and Eastern Star. Funeral services will be held Tuesday, July 15^th at 11am at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Pastor Dennis Zimmerman officiating. Burial will be in St. Peter’s Cemetery in Olean with military graveside rites by the Brown Township American Legion. Visitation will be Monday from 5pm to 8pm with Masonic services at 8pm. Memorials may be given to the Versailles Masonic Lodge, St. Peter’s Cemetery, or the Friendship Fire Department.

Charles A. Burford, 79, of Milan passed away Sunday, July 6, 2008 at his home. He was born at Owenton, Kentucky on June 7, 1929 the son of Paul and Julia Kenney Burford. He was married to Peggy Barenscheer on April 25, 1953 and she survives. Other survivors include one son Rick (Tonya) Burford of Elrod; five daughters, Barbara (Dennis) McLaughlin of Osgood, Judy (Doug) Russell of Milan, Cheri (Jr.) Schutte of Milan, Debbie (John) Eaglin of Elrod, and Amy (Scott) Stutler of Friendship; 15 grandchildren and 23 great-grandchildren; two brothers, Paul Burford, Jr. of Harrison, and Don Burford of Aurora; one sister Brenda Lozier of Marietta, Georgia. He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Wanda, and one great grandchild. Mr. Burford was a 28 year employee of Morton Salt in Cincinnati where he worked as a fork lift operator. He was an Army veteran of the Korean War and a member of the Washington Baptist Church at Elrod. Funeral services will be held Thursday, July 10^th at 11am at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Pastor Don Burford, Jr. officiating. Burial will be in the Washington Cemetery at Elrod. Visitation will be Wednesday from 5pm to 8pm. Memorials may be given to the Washington Cemetery in care of the funeral home.

Agnes L. Lovins, 71, of Versailles passed away Saturday, July 5, 2008 at the Kings Daughters Hospital in Madison. She was born at Vevay on November 7, 1936 the daughter of Chance and Blanche Spencer Steele. She was married to Kenneth Lovins on May 21, 1960 and he survives. Other survivors include one son Steven Lovins of Pigeon Forge, Tennessee; two daughters, Theresa (Ron) May of Versailles and Tina Lovins of St. Cloud, Florida; two step-daughters, Theresa Lovins of Wake Forest, North Carolina, and Cathy (Jerry) Sanders of Windell, North Carolina; two grandchildren and two step-grandchildren; two sisters, Genola Marsh of Tempe, Arizona, and Eva Goodpaster of Versailles; one brother Sam Steele of Little Rock, Arkansas. She was preceded in death by her parents, her sister Lil Schmidt, and her brothers Darrell and Verlin Steele. Mrs. Lovins served as Matron of the Ripley County Jail for sixteen years during the terms of sheriff of her husband and son. She had also been employed with US Shoe, Alco of Versailles, and the Ripley Publishing Company. She had been on the board of directors for SEIOC for 15 years. Funeral services will be held at the convenience of the family with burial in the New Marion Cemetery. Memorials may be given to the New Marion Cemetery in care of the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles.

Wallace Vincent Horton, long-time resident of Hamilton, died Thursday, July 3, 2008, in Delnor Community Hospital in Geneva, IL. Wallace was born in Versailles, IN, to Willa Belle Chandler and James Erby Horton on June 25, 1923. He celebrated his 85^th birthday the week prior to his passing. Wallace graduated from Versailles High School in 1941 and attended business school in Indianapolis. After Pearl Harbor Day, he went to work for a year at Austin Construction Company, a Naval ordnance plant in Indiana, until he enlisted in the United States Army, eventually earning a commission as a second lieutenant and becoming a pilot in the Army Air Corps. He was a mail carrier in Versailles and owned a Standard Oil route in the Dillsboro, IN, area before working at the Hamilton Fisher Body plant for 25 years. He enjoyed more than 30 years of retirement, spending time with family and friends, fishing, camping, playing cards, and building and fixing things. He was a lifetime member of Leora Ware post of the American Legion in Versailles and a past member of the Versailles Lions Club and the Ripley County Zoning Board. He married Edna Mae Collinsworth on November 29, 1944, in New Marion. They raised five children in Indiana and Hamilton, and moved back to Versailles in 1986, spending winters in Florida for a number of years. He nursed Edna through a long illness before her death in 1999. Wallace is survived by his loving and cherished wife of seven years, Marian Stoudt Horton, with whom he has resided in recent years in Shabbona, IL and Everglades City, FL. Also surviving are his children Sandra (Roger) Parrett, Liberty, IN; Joan (Russell) Fox, Liberty Township, OH; Marcia (John) Oke, Monroe, OH; James (Mary) Horton, West Point, VA; and Robert Horton, Liberty Township, OH. Left to cherish memories of their Papaw are 12 grandchildren: Lori Parrett Johnson (Frank Shoker) and Miranda Parrett (Ruben) Vasquez; Angela Fox (Mark) Heisten and Katherine Fox; Randy (Kristin) Gaspar and Evan Gaspar; Stephanie, Kathleen, and Emma Horton; and Alex, Carrie, and Sam Horton. Wallace was blessed with eight great-grandchildren, (Jacquie, Liza, Zac, Michael, Aidan, Ronan, Asher, and Griffin) and two great-great-grandchildren (Kaylee and Kyra). Wallace is also survived by his sister Maxine Jarvis and many other relatives and friends. Wallace was preceded in death by his brother Clifford Horton and a great grandson Levi. Funeral services will be held Wednesday, July 9^th at 11am at the Stratton Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Rev. David Shivers of the Hopewell Baptist Church officiating. Burial will be in the Tanglewood Cemetery with military graveside rites by the Versailles American Legion. Visitation will be Tuesday from 5pm to 8pm. Memorials may be given to the Tanglewood Cemetery.

Inez E. Elston, 84, of Cross Plains passed away Tuesday, July 1, 2008 at the Kings Daughters Hospital in Madison. She was born in the Marble Corner community in what is now the Jefferson Proving Ground near New Marion on December 8, 1923 the daughter of Rev. Arthur and Ina Irene Anderson Dilk. She was married to Raymond Elston on February 14, 1948 and he preceded her in death on September 4, 1993. Survivors include one daughter Pam Hicks of Cross Plains; grandchildren Tom Downey and Elizabeth Hicks both of Cross Plains and Heather (Ben) Kremer of Jeffersontown, Kentucky; one great-granddaughter Caitlin Downey. She was also preceded in death by her parents, her daughter Cheryl Elston, and her brothers Vernon and Charles Dilk. Mrs. Elston was a 1942 graduate of Cross Plains High School. She was retired from the Jefferson Proving Ground where she worked in Budget and Finance. Funeral services will be held Thursday, July 3^rd at 1pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Rev. Scott Elston officiating. Burial will be in the Marble Corner Cemetery at Versailles. Visitation will be Wednesday from 5pm to 7pm. Memorials may be given to the Marble Corner Cemetery or Rescue 69 in care of the funeral home.

Vinnie M. Black, 70, of Versailles passed away Thursday, June 26, 2008 at the Kings Daughters Hospital in Madison. She was born at Grundy, Virginia on October 2, 1937 the daughter of Luther and Maxie Osborne Mullins. She was married to William “Snapper” Black on August 6, 1955 and he preceded her in death on July 6, 1992. Survivors include three sons, Terry (Linda) Black and Todd Black both of Greensburg, and Tony Black of Versailles; 6 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren; five brothers, Vern Mullins and Frank Mullins both of Grundy, Virginia, Lonzo Mullins of Princeton, West Virginia, Warren Mullins of Bland, Virginia, and Homer Mullins of Bluefield, Virginia; three sisters, June Osborne and Gertrude Osborne both of Grundy, and Hazel Scott of Abington, Virginia. She was also preceded in death by her parents, her son Timothy Black, her brother Hassell Mullins, and one great-granddaughter. Mrs. Black was a member of the Bethany Baptist Church in Osgood. She was a 17 year employee of Hewitt’s Versailles Malt Shop and later Lafary’s Restaurant. Funeral services will be held Monday, June 30^th at 10:30am at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles. Burial will be in the Cliff Hill Cemetery in Versailles. Visitation will be Sunday from 5pm to 8pm. Memorials may be given to the Bethany Baptist Church, Cliff Hill Cemetery, American Lung Association, or the Jefferson County Hospice in care of the funeral home.

Charles R. Myers, 75, of Osgood passed away Thursday, June 26, 2008 at the Kings Daughters Hospital in Madison. He was born near New Marion on November 25, 1932 the son of Rufus and Lillie Mae Brown Myers. He was married to Elberta Farmer on July 22, 1965 and she preceded him in death on December 28, 2003. Survivors include one son Allen (Vickie) McIntosh of Brookville; three daughters, Debra Gregory of Fortville, Sarah (Mark) Chemo of Greeneville, Tennessee, and Lori (Kevin) Sturgeon of Osgood; 5 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren; one brother Russell Myers of Evansville; two sisters, Nettie Grigsby of Versailles and Rosie Burress of New Marion. He was also preceded in death by his parents, his brothers Jim and David (Pete) Myers, and his sisters Leah Swinney, Mabel Sexton, Betty Kieffer, and Mary Jo Lauber. Mr. Myers was a 1950 graduate of New Marion High School. He was an Army veteran of the Korean War where he attained the rank of Sergeant and received the National Defense Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, and the Army Occupation of Germany Medal. Mr. Myers had been a former employee of Empire Gas, McKittrick Contracting, and had worked for several years at the Halcomb Home Center in Versailles. He was a member of the Versailles Church of Christ and the Versailles American Legion. Funeral services will be held Sunday, June 29^th at 2pm at the Versailles Church of Christ with Dale Day officiating. Burial will be in the Cliff Hill Cemetery in Versailles with military graveside rites by the Versailles American Legion. Visitation will be Saturday from 5pm to 8pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles and from 1pm until time of services Sunday at the church. Memorials may be given to the Versailles Church of Christ in care of the funeral home.

Caroline I. Monroe, 85, of Versailles passed away Monday, June 23, 2008 at the Margaret Mary Hospital in Batesville. She was born at Iowa Falls, Iowa on May 4, 1923 the daughter of Ivan and Ethel Whitesell Hays. She was married to Marion Monroe in 1943 and he preceded her in death on March 9, 2000. Survivors include one daughter, Nancy Pickett of Versailles; one son David Monroe of Versailles; grandchildren Jeff Pickett of Versailles, Jennifer (Jeff) Smith of Versailles, and Laurie (Dwight) Kreig of Batesville, and 7 great-grandchildren; one brother, Ivan Hays of Rialto, California. She was also preceded in death by her parents and her sister Wilma Needham. Mrs. Monroe was a homemaker, had formerly worked for US Shoe, and was a member of the Tanglewood Baptist Church. She had attended the Pasadena Junior College in California where she studied nursing. She was a long time resident of the Colonial Manor of Versailles where she enjoyed playing cards with her neighbors. Funeral services will be held Thursday, June 26^th at 11am at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Rev. Becky Pohle officiating. Burial will be in the Tanglewood Cemetery. Visitation will be Thursday from 9:30am until time of services. Memorials may be given to the Tanglewood Cemetery in care of the funeral home.

David Roy Shaw, 70, of Versailles passed away Tuesday, June 17, 2008 at the Dearborn County Hospital in Lawrenceburg. He was born near Holton on October 28, 1937 the son of Leslie and Ethel Mercer Shaw. He was married to Barbara Holzer on November 22, 1957 and she survives. Other survivors include one son David (Kathy) Shaw of Versailles; two daughters, Cindy (Lanny) Burnham of Versailles and Patricia (Randy) Young of Osgood; 8 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren; two brothers, Donald Shaw of Nebraska and Robert Shaw of Milan. He was preceded by his parents and his brother Gene. Mr. Shaw, a veteran of the Vietnam War, served in the US Army from 1956 to 1978 retiring as a Master Sergeant. After his military service he owned and operated Shaw’s TV Repair in Versailles and also had been employed with Versailles Plastics and US Shoe. Funeral services will be held Friday, June 20^th at 11am at the Dabney Baptist Church with Rev. Michael Bell officiating. Burial will be in the Dabney Cemetery. Visitation will be Thursday from 5pm to 8pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles and from 10am until time of services Friday at the church. Memorials may be given to the Dabney Cemetery in care of the funeral home.

Kathryn M. Curran, 82,of Olean passed away Wednesday, June 11, 2008 at the Norton Hospital in Louisville. She was born at Olean on April 2, 1926 the daughter of Alfred and Hilda Smith Miller. She was married to Freeman Curran on October 2, 1943 and he survives. Other survivors include one daughter Pat (John) Halford of Olean; two sons, Randy (Susan) Curran of Burlington, Kentucky and Michael (Tanya) Curran of Pinehurst, North Carolina; 9 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. Mrs. Curran was a homemaker and a member of the Greendale Living Church of God. Funeral services will be held Monday, June 16^th at 1pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Edward Smith officiating. Burial will be in St. Paul’s Cemetery in Olean. Visitation will be Monday from 11am until time of services. Memorials may be given to St. Paul’s Cemetery in care of the funeral home.

John E. Hammon, 83, of Cincinnati passed away Sunday, June 8, 2008 at the Tri-County Health Care Center in Fairfield, Ohio. He was born near Versailles on May 17, 1925 the son of Elbridge and Erma Pratt Hammon. He was married to Ernestine Reuter on January 26, 1952 and she preceded him in death on March 19, 2006. Survivors include one daughter Janie Hammon and one son Wayne Hammon both of Cincinnati; granddaughters Amanda, Rebecca, and Sarah; one sister Mrs. Dorothy Kimball of Holton; one brother Frank Hammon of Republic, Missouri. He was also preceded in death by his parents, brothers Norman and Rufus Hammon, and his sisters Lucille Schlotman, June Hansen, Maebeth DeBurger, Blanche Ross, Dolores Hammon, and Edith Hammon. Mr. Hammon was a1943 graduate of Holton High School. He served with the Merchant Marines and was an Army veteran of WWII where he served with the 185^th Engineers Battalion, specializing in news photography. He worked as a conductor on the B & O and CSX Railroad for 30 years retiring in 1992. He was a member of the Columbia Masonic Lodge at Miamitown, Ohio and also a member of the Versailles American Legion. Memorial services will be held on Saturday, June 21^st at 11am at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Rev. David Shivers of the Hopewell Baptist Church officiating. Burial will be in the Tanglewood Cemetery. Visitation will be from 9:30am until time of services at the funeral home. Memorials may be given to the Alzheimer’s Foundation or the Tanglewood Cemetery in care of the funeral home.

Bonnie N. Ogden, 94, of Osgood, formerly of Versailles, passed away Monday, June 9, 2008 at the Golden Living Center at Hill Creek in Louisville. She was born in Decatur County near Westport on January 2, 1914 the daughter of Andrew and Etta Surface Hull. She was married to Thomas Ogden on June 23, 1940 and he preceded her in death on May 12, 1971. Survivors include one daughter Ruth (John) Oglesby of Louisville; one grandson, Gary (Deanna) Cundiff of Louisville. She was also preceded in death by her parents and one sister. Mrs. Ogden was a member of the Tyson United Methodist Church and also the Do-A-Lot Home Economics Club. Along with her husband Mrs. Ogden owned and operated the Dog-N-Suds in Osgood and later Tom’s 50-50 Grill located at the Wye in Versailles. Funeral services will be held Thursday, June 12^th at 11am at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Rev. James Byerly of the Tyson United Methodist Church officiating. Visitation will be Thursday from 10am until time of services. Burial will be in the South Park Cemetery in Greensburg. Memorials may be given to the Tyson United Methodist Church in care of the funeral home.

Steve Hoover, 42, of Versailles passed away Sunday, June 8, 2008 at the Mercy Hospital in Harrison, Ohio. He was born in Cincinnati on November 5, 1965 the son of Harlis and Wanda Prater Hoover. He was married to Susette Sexton on April 23, 1987 and she survives. Other survivors include one son Steve Hoover, Jr. and one daughter Kaylynn Hoover both of Versailles; five sisters, Kathy Fitzpatrick, Cheryl Hatter, Lyvonna Weigand, his twin sister Sherrie Hoover, and Denise McMillan all of Cincinnati. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister Sharon. Mr. Hoover was a construction worker for the Blay Real Estate Company in Cincinnati. He was a member of the Dabney Baptist Church. Funeral services will be held Wednesday, June 11^th at 11am at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Rev. Michael Bell of the Dabney Baptist Church officiating. Burial will be in the Dabney Cemetery. Visitation will be Wednesday from 10am until time of services. Memorials may be given to the donor’s choice.

Cletus Holzer, 88, of Versailles passed away Friday, June 6, 2008 at the Manderley Health Care Center in Osgood. He was born at Billings, Montana on January 24, 1920 the son of John E. and Lorean Jackson Holzer. He was married to Rosella Meister on May 25, 1940 and she survives. Other survivors include three sons, John (Carol) Holzer of Versailles, Cletus, Jr. (Kathi) of Trion, Georgia, and Mark (Janet) Holzer of Kernersville, North Carolina; four daughters, Marie (Don) Strobel of Franklin, Joan (Leon) Sarringhaus of Hollister, California, Patricia (Ray) Durlacher of Jacksonville, Florida, and Aletha (Owen, Jr.) Heaton of Cross Plains; 26 grandchildren and 54 great-grandchildren; one sister, Rita (Bob) Cline of Madison. He was preceded in death by his parents, and an infant son Lawrence. Mr. Holzer was a 1938 graduate of New Marion High School. He served in the Navy during WWII and after returning from the service operated a general store with his father in New Marion and later in Versailles. He also owned and operated the Court House Inn in Versailles for several years. He was a member of St. John’s Catholic Church in Osgood and was a fourth degree Knight of Columbus at Monsignor Brute Council 246 in Lawrenceburg. He was also a member of the Ripley County Voiture 40 & 8, a fifty year member of the Versailles American Legion, and a former member of the Versailles Fire Department. Mass of Christian Burial will be held Tuesday, June 10^th at 10am at St. John’s Catholic Church in Osgood with Father Rob Hankee officiating. Burial will be in the Cliff Hill Cemetery in Versailles with military graveside rites by the Versailles American Legion. Visitation will be Monday from 4pm to 8pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Rosary services at 8pm. Memorials may be given to the School of Gibault or the Cliff Hill Cemetery in care of the funeral home.

Irene Jacobs, 95, of Cross Plains passed away Tuesday, June 3, 2008 at the Ripley Crossing in Milan. She was born near Cross Plains on December 10, 1912 the daughter of John and Clara Berkemeyer Thomas. She was married to J. Melvin Jacobs on October 24, 1933 and he preceded her in death on February 1, 1994. Survivors include her daughter-in-law Alethea Jacobs of Versailles; granddaughters Debbie Tewmey and Darla Jacobs both of Versailles, Denise Jacobs, and Dee Ann Jacobs both of Indianapolis. She was also preceded in death by her parents, her son Glenn Jacobs, and her sister Laura Laker. Mrs. Jacobs along with her husband owned and operated Jacobs Grocery Store in Cross Plains for over 50 years closing in 1984. She was also a homemaker and a member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Dewberry. Funeral services will be held Saturday, June 7^th at 11am at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Dewberry with Rev. Ralph Canpen officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Visitation will be Friday from 5pm to 7pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles and from 10am until time of services Saturday at the church. Memorials may be given to the activities fund at Ripley Crossing or to St. Paul’s Lutheran Church.

Lee Grigsby, 85, of Versailles passed away Monday, May 26, 2008 at St. Vincent’s Hospital in Indianapolis. He was born at Hazard in Perry County, Kentucky on June 19, 1922 the son of Monroe and Susan Noble Grigsby. He was married to Catherine Chandler on July 19, 1947 and she survives. Other survivors include one son Ernie (Denise) Grigsby of Kent; one daughter, Cheryl (Leigh) Steele of Benham; 4 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren; one sister Nona Adams of Bennington. He was preceded in death by his parents, and his brothers Ned, Herbert, Will, and Alonzo Grigsby. Mr. Grigsby was a Navy veteran of WWII. He served as a gunner’s mate on the USS Yorktown where he participated in the Battle of Midway and the Philippine Islands Liberation Campaign. He was awarded two Silver Stars and also one Bronze Star for his service. He was a member of the Versailles American Legion. He was a retired farmer, a former employee of Seagram’s, and along with his wife had owned and operated G & G Sporting Goods in Versailles. Funeral services will be held Friday, May 30^th at 11am at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Rev. Karen Reynolds of the New Marion Baptist Church officiating. Burial will be in the Grandview Memorial Garden near Madison with military honors by the Versailles American Legion. Visitation will be Thursday from 5pm to 8pm. Memorials may b given to the New Marion Baptist Church in care of the funeral home.

Ruth C. Gloyd, 98, of Osgood passed away Saturday, May 24, 2008 at the Ripley Crossing in Milan. She was born near Batesville on January 10, 1910 the daughter of Charles and Anna Buchold Baylor. She was married to Oran Gloyd on November 21, 1926 and he preceded her in death on January 16, 2001. Survivors include two sons. Bill (Sandra) Gloyd of Osgood and Larry (Del) Gloyd of Rockford, Illinois; one daughter Marjorie Crum of Milan; one brother Chester (Ruth) Baylor of Milan; 9 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, her granddaughter Lisa Gloyd, her son-in-law Norman Crum, her sisters Marie LeGrand, Elsie Wysong, Opal Booher, and Martha Felix, and her brothers Leo and Charles Baylor. Mrs. Gloyd owned and operated along with her husband Gloyd’s Hardware in Osgood for several years and was also a homemaker. She was a 63year member of the First Baptist Church in Osgood and was a 55year member of the Osgood and Versailles Chapter of the Eastern Star. Funeral services will be held Wednesday, May 28 at 11am at the First Baptist Church in Osgood with Rev. Don Buck officiating. Burial will be in the Greendale Cemetery at Osgood. Visitation will be Tuesday from 5pm to 8pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles and from 10am until time of services Wednesday at the church. Memorials may be given to the Osgood First Baptist Church or the Greendale Cemetery in care of the funeral home.

Mary Elizabeth Karsteter, 95, of Lawrenceburg passed away Wednesday, May 7, 2008 at the Woodland Hill Nursing Center in Lawrenceburg. She was born at Rising Sun on April 27, 1913 the daughter of Henry Earl and Grace Hanna Williams. She was married to A. Creighton “Peck” Karsteter on November 14, 1931 and he preceded her in death on December 25, 2001. Survivors include one son A. Steven (Sue) Karsteter of Lawrenceburg; two daughters Barbara Harrison of Lawrenceburg and Patricia (Rodney) Kinzer of The Villages, Florida; 11 grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren, and 2 great great grandchildren. She was also preceded in death by her parents and her great- grandson Matthew Kinzer. Mrs. Karsteter was a 1931 graduate of Rising Sun High School. She had attended Cincinnati Conservatory of Music and Purdue University. She was a homemaker, an avid bridge player, and a member of the Bright Christian Church. She was also a 75-year member of Tri-Kappa and had been a 20-year volunteer for the Dearborn County Welfare Department. Funeral services will be held Monday, May 26^th at 2pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Mark Fugate officiating. Burial will be in the Riverview Cemetery at Aurora. Memorials may be given to the Lawrenceburg Public Library, Tri-Kappa Memorial Fund, P.A.W.S.

Emma Marie Shook Ridenour, 74, of Indianapolis passed away Sunday, May 18, 2008 at her home. She was born near Cross Plains, Indiana on April 27, 1934 the daughter of James and Elizabeth Whitham Shook. She had two adored older brothers Lawrence and Roscoe Shook and an older sister, Lorraine Francis, who died as an infant. Marie attended school in Cross Plains and later graduated from Central HS in Madison. She then took her first brave step and took a bus to Indianapolis at age 18. She was one of the first employees at the Western electric Plant where she started making dials for telephones in 1952. She lived in Los Angeles from 1963 to 1964, moved back to Indianapolis and then married Bobby Ridenour in Carson City, Nevada in 1967. Marie and Bob made their home in Salinas, California. Marie, ever the one to take the big challenges, spent one summer living in Jacksonville Beach, Florida in 1969 and then headed back to Salinas. One more big move in 1976 when Marie moved her family back to Indianapolis. All of these years she was working for the phone company (Western Electric, Pacific Tel, Southern Bell, and Indiana Bell). She retired after 40 years and spent the rest of her life in Indianapolis in her condominium with her beloved pets. She also managed to sneak in three summers living in Bryson City, North Carolina-some of her favorite times were spent in those mountains. Marie also demonstrated her strength when she gave birth to her first daughter, Jacqueline Kaye, in Greensburg, Indiana in 1954. With the support of family and many friends, Marie was a single mother to her daughter until she married Jackie’s father in 1967. The whole family was blessed in 1969 when Marie gave birth to Trina Marie in Salinas. The whole family was blessed again in 1987 when MaMaw’s first and only granddaughter was born in Indianapolis. Ashley Elizabeth Lockart was her pride and joy and lived and cared for her grandmother during the last seven months of her illness. Marie leaves her daughters Jackie and Trina and her granddaughter Ashley with a lifetime of wonderful memories. She leaves her sons-in-law Frank de Moss and Danny Lockart. Marie is also survived by her sister-in-law Virginia Shook and her nieces Cheryl Bentley, Wanda Shook, Libby Updike, and Donna Marie Shade. Marie’s friends were too numerous to mention. Some are still on this earth and many are already with her in Heaven. But none of them will ever forget her. Funeral services will be held Thursday, May 22^nd at 2pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home, 1114 South Ripley Estates Dr., Versailles, IN 47042. Visitation will be Thursday from 1pm until time of services. Marie will be laid to rest in the Cliff Hill Cemetery in Versailles. Memorial donations may be made to Father Flanagan’s Boys Town or the Cliff Hill Cemetery in care of the funeral home. Online condolences available at skfuneralhome.com.

Rita Young, 79, of Napoleon passed away Wednesday, May 14, 2008 at the Methodist Hospital in Indianapolis. She was born near Milhousen on June 26, 1928 the daughter of Lawrence and Catherine Menkedick Duerstock. She was married to Alfred Young on June 15, 1949 and he survives. Other survivors include two sons, Larry (Pam) Young and Dale Young both of Napoleon; two daughters, Janice (Kenny) Fry and Nancy (Bob) Obermeyer both of Napoleon; 8 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren; five brothers, Vincent(Ann) Duerstock of Shelbyville, Urban Duerstock of Greensburg, Cyril Duerstock of Napoleon, Marvin (Sabra) Duerstock of Guilford, and Kenny (Caroline) Duerstock of Batesville; one sister Helen Tebbe of Orlando, Florida. She was preceded in death by her parents, her grandson Brian Obermeyer, daughter-in-law Debbie Young, her brother Norbert Duerstock, and her sister Margaret Bedel. Mrs. Young was a homemaker and a member of St. Maurice Catholic Church where she participated in the NCCW of Napoleon. Mass of Christian Burial will be held Saturday, May 17^th at 10am at St. Maurice Catholic Church in Napoleon with Father Rob Hankee officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Visitation will be Friday from 4pm to 8pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles. Rosary services will be conducted at 8pm Friday at the funeral home. Memorials may be given to the St. Maurice Building Fund

Harold Mobrley, 66, of Elrod passed away Tuesday, May 13, 2008 at his home. He was born in Cincinnati on December 26, 1941 the son of Eugene and Fanny McIntosh Mobrley. He was married to Helen Mobrley on July 4, 1992 and she survives. Other survivors include two sons, Darrell (Nancy) Mobrley of Elrod and Larry (Tina) Mobrley of Milan; two daughters, Kim (Kevin) Johnson of Milan and Beverly Spurlock of Aurora; one step-daughter Cathy (Van) Mason of Pike Road, Alabama; two step-sons David (Nancy) Bull of Montgomery, Alabama and Gary ( LeAnne) Bull of Lowndesboro, Alabama; fourteen grandchildren and five great-grandchildren; one brother Vernon Mobrley of Cincinnati. He was preceded in death by one brother and his parents. Mr. Mobrley was a metal pattern maker for Reliable Casting Company in Cincinnati for 38 years. He was a member of the Hope Baptist Church and the Kilwinning Masonic Lodge in Cincinnati. Funeral services will be held Thursday, May 15^th at 1pm at the Hope Baptist Church in Dillsboro with Tom Holt officiating. Burial will be in the Washington Cemetery in Elrod. Visitation will be Thursday from 11am until time of services at the church. Memorials may be given to the Milan Fire Department or the Margaret Mary Hospice in care of the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles.

Leon Cole, 67, of Versailles passed away Thursday, May 8, 2008 at his home. He was born at Osgood on January 28, 1941 the son of Lawrence and Ruth Hardebeck Cole. Survivors include his mother Mrs. Ruth Cole of Holton; two sons, Dwayne (Marci) Cole of Hanover, Joe (Saradee) Cole of Versailles; two daughters, Michelle (Rodney) Sellers and Katrina (Jerry) Keck both of Versailles; 10 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren; one brother Lanny(Carolyn) Cole of Canaan; two sisters, Ruth (Phillip)Meisberger of New Marion and Judy (Omer) Powers of Holton. He was preceded in death by his father. Mr. Cole was a 1959 graduate of New Marion High School. He was an Army veteran of the Vietnam War serving with the 5^th Engineering Batallion. Mr. Cole was awarded the Silver Star, Bronze Star, Good Conduct Medal, Army Commendation Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, and Sharpshooter Badge. He was a self-employed timber buyer and had worked for Tru-Temper in North Vernon. He was a member of the Milan American Legion. Funeral services will be held Monday, May 12^th at 1pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home inVersailles. Burial will be in the Indiana Veterans Cemetery in Madison. Visitation will be Sunday from 4pm to 7pm. Memorials may be given to the Milan American Legion in care of the funeral home.

Gladys Steele Palmer, 82, of Osgood, Indiana passed away Thursday, May 8, 2008 at the Waters of Ross Manor in Dillsboro. She was born at Osgood on June 26, 1925 the daughter of Clyde and Bertha Rose Webster. She was married to Albert Steele and he preceded her in death on July 11, 1987. She was married to Sylvanus Palmer in 1996 and he survives. Other survivors include five sons, Ralph (Charlotte) Steele of Fairland, Leigh(Cheryl) Steele of Versailles, Glenn (Brenda) Steele of Versailles, Norman Steele of Stanford, North Carolina, and Terry Steele of Indianapolis; one daughter Sandy (Paul) Clayton of Holton; one step-daughter Betty Culp of Oregon City, Oregon;12 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren, 3 step-grandchildren; one brother Earl Beach of Midway, Ohio; one sister Esther Delay of Columbus. She was preceded in death by her parents, her daughter-in-law Jean, grandson Jeff Steele, and great-grandson Rion Dale Steele. Mrs. Palmer was a member of the Versailles Church of Christ. She was a former employee of US Shoe in Osgood and retired in 1988 after 18 years as dietician at the Muscatatuck State Developmental Center. Funeral services will be held Monday, May 12^th at 10:30am at the Versailles Church of Christ with Dale Day officiating. Burial will be in the Grandview Memorial Garden near Madison. Visitation will be Sunday from 3pm to 6pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles and from 9:30 until time of services Monday at the church. Memorials may be given to the Versailles Church of Christ in care of the funeral home.

Firth A. Shelpman, 71, of Versailles passed away Saturday, May 3, 2008 at the Christ Hospital in Cincinnati. He was born near Versailles on February 22, 1937 and grew up in the home of Lee and Mary Ann Firth Strubbe. He was married to Karla Naegele on November 26, 1971 and she survives. Other survivors include one son Fred (Ann) Shelpman of Cross Plains; one daughter, Dawndalyn (Robert) Stmichael of Hayes, Virginia; eight grandchildren. Mr. Shelpman was a 1956 graduate of Versailles High School. He had worked as a meat cutter in the Purdum grocery store in Versailles and also at Braley’s Clover Leaf Store. He retired from the Teamsters as a truck driver hauling heavy equipment. Funeral services will be held Wednesday, May 7^th at 11am at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles. Visitation will be Tuesday from 4pm to 8pm. Memorials may be given to F.A.M.E. or the Ronald McDonald House in care of the funeral home.

David A. Yeomans, Jr., 73 of Versailles passed away Monday, April 28, 2008 at the Margaret Mary Community Hospital in Batesville. He was born in Boston on May 2, 1934 the son of David Sr. and Edith Young Yeomans. He was married to Juanita Lovins on January 16, 1967 and she survives. Other survivors include two daughters, Danita Yeomans of Versailles and Robin (Steve) Fischer of Sunman; grandchildren Cory Yeomans, Lauren Copeland, Evan, Kyla, and Jalyn Fischer; one great-granddaughter Alexa Yeomans; two brothers Kenneth Yeomans of Boston and Richard Yeomans of Medway, Massachusetts; four sisters, Linda Walsh and Marilyn Morgan both of Boston, Betty Bowdish of New Mexico, and Edith Jasnocha of Arizona. Mr. Yeomans was a Navy veteran retiring in 1977 after serving 20 years. During his career in the Navy he was qualified as a Radarman First Class, Antisubmarine Air Controller, Air Intercept Controller, Operations Specialist First Class, and retired as a Chief Petty Officer. Mr. Yeomans was twice awarded the Navy’s Good Conduct Award. After his Navy career he worked in quality control for the Batesville Casket Company. Funeral services will be held Friday, May 2^nd at 10am at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Rev. Rick Burcham officiating. Burial will be in the Cliff Hill Cemetery at Versailles. Visitation will be Thursday from 5pm to 8pm. Memorials may be given to the Cliff Hill Cemetery or Rescue 69 in care of the funeral home.

Chase Aaron Carroll, 8 week old son of Aaron Carroll and Brandi Ahrens Eaton, passed away Friday, April 25, 2008 at the Margaret Mary Community Hospital in Batesville. Chase was born at Batesville on February 28, 2008. He is survived by his parents, his twin brother Lane David Carroll, sisters Taylor Carroll, Madelyn Eaton, and Hannah Eaton; paternal grandparents Dennis and Debbie Carroll of Osgood; maternal grandparents David and Brenda Ahrens of Batesville; paternal great-grandparents Rea and Henrietta Carroll of Osgood and Edward and Virginia Schneider of Sunman; maternal great-grandparents Mervin and Marjorie Ahrens of Batesville and Robert and Barbara Bishop of Moores Hill. Funeral services will be held Monday, April 28^th at 11am at the Adams Lutheran Church with Pastor William Powlen officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Visitation will be Monday from 10am until time of services. Memorials may be given to the donors choice. The Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles is in charge of arrangements

Margaret J. Elsen, 61, of Versailles passed away Thursday, April 24, 2008 at her home. She was born at Beatyville, Kentucky on October 8, 1946 the daughter of Hallister and Dorothy Perdue Johnson. She was married to Frank Elsen on May 28, 1963 and he preceded her in death on February 11, 1993. Survivors include one son Tony (Candi) Elsen of Versailles; four daughters, Angel (Gary) Hall, Missy Elsen, Lisa (Greg) Fisk, and Lora (Tim) Sexton all of Versailles; 16 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren; two brothers, Clyde Johnson of Perryville, Missouri, and Jesse Johnson of Cincinnati; six sisters, Etta Hardman, Mary Hobbs, April Hawkins, Cathy Johnson, and Ruth Barrett all of Cincinnati, and Susie Johnson of Jacksonville, Florida. She was also preceded in death by her parents and her brother Bob Johnson. Mrs. Elsen was a 1964 graduate of Western Hills High School and received her associates degree from Purdue University. She was employed with Interstate Brands as a District Supervisor retiring in 2004. Funeral services will be held Sunday, April 27^th at 3pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Randy Thieman of the Shelby Christian Church officiating. Burial will be in the Grandview Memorial Garden near Madison. Visitation will be Sunday from 12pm until time of services. Memorials may be given to the American Cancer Society, St. John’s Catholic Church, or the Shelby Christian Church.

Stephen B. Westmeyer, 59, of Paris, Kentucky passed away Wednesday, April 16, 2008 at the Margaret Mary Community Hospital in Batesville. He was born at the Margaret Mary Community Hospital on October 28, 1948 the son of Jesse and Josephine Curry Westmeyer. He was married to Ann Barkley on July 18, 1978 and she survives. Other survivors include one daughter Elizabeth Westmeyer of Paris; his mother Mrs. Josephine Westmeyer of Versailles; two brothers Jesse (Jane) Westmeyer of Versailles and David Westmeyer (Tulin) of Louisville. Mr. Westmeyer was a 1966 graduate of Versailles High School. He received his Batchelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice from Eastern Kentucky University. He owned and operated CS Claims Service in Lexington, Kentucky, an independent claims adjuster. He was an Air Force veteran of the Vietnam Era. Mr. Westmeyer was also a member of the Tyson United Methodist Church in Versailles, the Versailles American Legion, Lexington F&AM # 1, Henry Clay Chapter of the Order of the Eastern Star, was past president of the Blue Grass Claims Association, and was a board member of the Northern Kentucky Association of Insurance Professionals. Visitation will be held Friday, April 25^th at 1pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with military honors by the Versailles American Legion being conducted at 3pm at the funeral home. Burial will follow on Saturday, April 26^th at the Lexington Cemetery in Lexington, Kentucky. Memorials may be given to the Jesse Westmeyer Scholarship Fund in care of the funeral home.

Judy Ryle, 63, of Batesville passed away Sunday, April 13, 2008 at the Ripley Crossing in Milan. She was born at Saratoga, Indiana on September 18, 1944 the daughter of Delbert and Margurite Clear Isenbarger. She was married to William Ryle on August 13, 1974 and he survives. Other survivors include one daughter Shelly Winters of Batesville; one son, Brian (Kim) Romack of Cross Plains; grandchildren Madison Winters and Clay Romack; her parents Delbert and Margurite Isenbarger of Saratoga. Mrs. Ryle was a member of St. Mark’s Lutheran Church in Batesville and had worked as an aide for the Milan School Corporation. Funeral services will be held Thursday, April 17^th at 11 am at the Hope Baptist Church in Dillsboro with Bro. Tom Holt and Rev. Harris Long officiating. Burial will be in the Forest Hill Cemetery in Moores Hill. Visitation will be Wednesday from 5pm to 8pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles and from 10am until time of services at the church. Memorials may be given to the American Cancer Society in care of the funeral home.

Rose E. Barenscheer, 92, of Elrod passed away Wednesday, April 9, 2008 at the Dearborn County Hospital in Lawrenceburg. She was born at Addyston, Ohio on June 19, 1915 the daughter of Charles and Anna Eckstein Meeks. She was married to Rev. Lee Barenscheer on November 5, 1933 and he preceded her in death on July 28, 1990. Survivors include one son Andy (Linda) Barenscheer of Milan; one daughter Peggy (Charles) Burford of Dillsboro; 11 grandchildren, 27 great-grandchildren, and 19 great great grandchildren. She was also preceded in death by her parents, three brothers, and three sisters. Mrs. Barenscheer was a homemaker and a member of the Washington Baptist Church. Funeral services will be held Saturday, April 12^th at 11am at the Washington Baptist Church with Rev. Bruce Fitzsimmons and Tim Barenscheer officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Visitation will be Friday from 5pmt to 8pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles and from 10am until time of services Saturday at the church. Memorials may be given to the Gideons, Washington Baptist Church, or the Washington Cemetery.

Georgia Lee Centers, 62, of Rising Sun passed away Sunday, April 6, 2007 at her home. She was born on September 27, 1945 at Batesville the daughter of Everett and Betty Jean Stoneking Cox. She was married to Donald Centers on October 13, 2007 and he survives. Other survivors include one daughter, Rae Jean Auterson and her husband Michael of Versailles; one sister, Connie Dytmire of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina; two brothers Paul Cox and Manis Cox both of Orlando, Florida; two half-brothers Ralph Breeding and Andy Breeding both of Myrtle Beach. She was preceded in death by her son Randall Wayne Nealis, her parents, and her brother Damon Cox. Mrs. Centers was a 1963 graduate of Holton High School. She was employed with Grand Victoria Casino in Rising Sun and had been formerly employed with SETA and the Ripley County Welfare Department. She was a member of the Holton Christian Church, Versailles Chapter of the Eastern Star, and the Rising Sun American Legion Auxillary. Funeral services will be held Thursday, April 10^th at 11am at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Rev. James Byerly of the Tyson United Methodist Church officiating. Burial will be in the Holton Cemetery. Visitation will be Wednesday from 5pm to 8pm. Memorials may be given to the American Cancer Society, the Hospice of Decatur County, or the Holton Cemetery in care of the funeral home.

Nancy Pearl Bowling, 86, of Versailles passed away Saturday, April 5, 2008 at her home. She was born at Oneida in Clay County, Kentucky on October 25, 1921 the daughter of Elza and Minnie Webb. She was married to Sulvan Bowling on September 28, 1943 and he preceded her in death on August 13, 1974. Survivors include four sons, Richard (Diana) Bowling of Lebanon, Ohio, Sulvan Bowling, Jr. of Dillsboro, Michael (Barbra) Bowling of French Lick, and James (Vonda) Bowling of Moorefield; one daughter Betty Jo (Gene) Copeland of Breckenridge, Colorado; 16 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, several brothers and sisters, and her grandson Michael Bowling, Jr. Mrs. Bowling was a 1939 graduate of the Oneida Baptist Institute and attended the Fugaci School of Business in Lexington. She was a member of the Trinity Christian Center in Lawrenceburg and attended the Washington Baptist Church in Elrod. She was a former employee of the Delaney Wood Heel Factory in Versailles and retired in 1997 after 21 years as a cook at the South Ripley Elementary School in Versailles. Funeral services will be held Tuesday, April 8^th at 11am at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Pastor Bob Brigman of the Trinity Christian Center officiating. Burial will be in the Washington Cemetery at Elrod. Visitation will be Monday from 5pm to 8pm. Memorials may be given to the Hospice of Kings Daughters Hospital or the Trinity Christian Center in care of the funeral home.

Martha C. Williams, 97, of Osgood passed away Monday, March 31, 2008 at the Heritage House in Greensburg. She was born in the Flat Rock community near Osgood on June 7, 1910 the daughter of Leland and Lula Hull Rayburn. She was married to Glenn Williams on February 20, 1931 and he preceded her in death on August 17, 1994. Survivors include two sons, Milford Williams of Holton and Gerald (Carolyn) Williams of Greensburg; two daughters, Beverly (Charles) Newlin of Duluth, Georgia and Carolyn (John) Newlin of Lafayette; 10 grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren, and 17 great-great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, her granddaughter Sue, daughter-in-law Clara Williams, her brothers Ollie and William Rayburn, and her sister Annabelle Williams. Mrs. Williams attended the Bethel School in the Flat Rock community as a child and was the last living member of her Holton High School class of 1928. She was a homemaker and a member of the Union Flat Rock Baptist Church. She was also a member of the Ripley County Farm Bureau and a 51 year and past Grand Matron of the Eastern Star. Funeral services will be held Friday, April 4^th at 11am at the Union Flat Rock Baptist Church with Rev. Carolyn Williams and Malvin McCullough officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Visitation will be Thursday from 5pm to 8pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles and from 10am until time of services Friday at the church. The Versailles chapter of the Eastern Star will conduct services at 7:30pm Thursday at the funeral home. Memorials may be given to the Union Flat Rock Baptist Church in care of the funeral home.

Lonnie Reynolds, 66, of Versailles passed away Monday, March 31, 2008 at his home. He was born at Hamilton, Ohio on February 28, 1942 the son of Carmen and Edrie Dick Reynolds. He was married to Dianne Stutler on March 20, 1976 and she survives. Other survivors include one son Andrew Reynolds of Versailles; two brothers, Thomas Reynolds of Ohio and Doug Reynolds of Osgood; one sister, Judy Hughes of Delaware. Mr. Reynolds was retired from US Shoe and was a Navy Veteran of the Vietnam War. Memorial services will be held Monday, April 7^th at 10am at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Rev. Karen Reynolds of the New Marion Baptist Church officiating. Military honors will be given by the Versailles American Legion.

James Bolton, Jr., 29, of Rexville passed away Wednesday, March 19, 2008 as the result of an automobile accident in St. Louis. He was born in Cincinnati on April 2, 1978 the son of James and Deborah Mitchell Bolton. He was married to Sherrie Owens on March 26, 2005 and she survives. Other survivors include two sons, David and Joseph Bolton both at home; step-sons Isaiah Whiteney and Elias Whiteney both at home; his father James Bolton of Vevay; his mother Deborah Loughan of Holton; his brother Nicholas Bolton and his sister Anastasia Bolton both of Vevay; mother-in-law Jan Brunner of Frankfort, Kentucky; father-in-law David Owens of Old Town, Florida; paternal grandfather James Bolton of Greendale; maternal grandparents Jim and Jean Mitchell of Victorville, California. Mr. Bolton was a 1998 graduate of South Ripley High School and a graduate of Owens Community College. He served six years in the Army Reserves and was employed with Ironworkers Local 44. Funeral services will be held Tuesday, March 26 at 11am at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Rev. Don Buck of the First Baptist Church in Osgood officiating. Visitation will be Monday from 5pm to 8pm. Burial will be in the Grandview Memorial Garden near Madison. Memorials may be given to a fund for his children in care of the funeral home.

Earl Tingle, 69, of Versailles passed away Friday, March 14, 2008 at the Floyd County Memorial Hospital in New Albany. He was born at New Castle in Henry County, Kentucky on October 16, 1938 the son of Gilbert and Leona Raisor Tingle. He is survived by two sons, Freddie (Sandy) Tingle and Mike Tingle both of Madison; two daughters, Glenda (Shannon) Mayo of Tennessee and Brenda Baker of Madison; nine grandchildren and five great-grandchildren; two brothers, Charlie Tingle of Elrod and Donnie Tingle of Vevay; four sisters, Shirley Hewitt of Vevay, Shelby Garland of Madison, Leora Marsh of North Vernon, and Wilma Romans of Brooksburg. He was preceded in death by his parents, his son Robert, sister Lois Taylor, and brother James Everett Tingle. Mr. Tingle was a former employee of Thayer Farms at Osgood and of the Hanover Marathon. He was a member of the Bethany Baptist Church at Osgood, Amvets, Versailles American Legion, and the North Vernon Eagles. Funeral services will be held Wednesday, March 19^th at 11am at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Rev. Howard Wade officiating. Burial will be in the Grandview Memorial Garden at Madison. Visitation will be Tuesday from 4pm to 8pm. Memorials may be given to the Bethany Baptist Church or the Gideons in care of the funeral home.

Charles E. Lovins, 75, of New Marion passed away Thursday, March 6, 2008 at the Waters of Clifty Falls at Madison. He was born at Hazard, Kentucky on February 21, 1933 the son of Henry and Sallie Hadix Lovins. He was married to Melba Alford and she preceded him in death in 1970. Survivors include four sons, Dean (Robin) Lovins of Lexington, Edward (Debbie) Lovins of Fairmount, Charles Lovins, Jr. of New Marion, and Robert Lovins of Osgood; three daughters, Shawna (Butch) Poynter of Madison, Anita (Richard) Hamilton of Bennington, and Pam Lovins of Vevay; 12 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren; two brothers, Kenneth Lovins of Versailles and Jim Lovins of Milan; six sisters, Harriet Cleeter of Lawrenceburg, Jean Wilson of New Marion, Martha Smith of Pendleton, Geneva Napier of Madison, Dottie Woods of Cross Plains, and Juanita Yeomans of Versailles. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother John, and 2 great-grandchildren. Mr. Lovins was an Army veteran of Korea and a recipient of the Purple Heart. He was a former truck driver for Berry Materials and a member of the Versailles American Legion, Ripley County Voiture 40 & 8, and the VFW. Graveside services will be held Tuesday, March 11^th at 11am at the Liberty Baptist Cemetery at East Enterprise with Rev. Clifton Hartley of the Milton Christian Church officiating. Visitation will be Monday from 5pm to 8pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles. Memorials may be given to the Versailles American Legion in care of the funeral home.

E. Gayle Geisler, 85, of Versailles passed away Sunday, March 2, 2008 at the Manatee Memorial Hospital in Bradenton, Florida. He was born near Benham on May 3, 1922 the son of Edmund and Hattie Morrow Geisler. He was married to Joan Daily on September 14, 1947 and she survives. Other survivors include two daughters, Lynn (Charles) Baurley of Benham and Melody (Jim) Arney of Versailles; 5 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents. Mr. Geisler was a 1940 graduate of Cross Plains High School. He was a farmer, a former employee of Hunter’s Hardware in Versailles, and for several years he was an independent trucker along with Mr. Robert Underwood, buying, selling, and hauling grain for area farmers. He was a member of the Tyson United Methodist Church, a lifetime member of the Versailles Lions Club, and a member of the Bradenton, Florida Lions Club. He was also a member and director for the Indiana Lions Eye Bank and a former member of the South Ripley School Board. Funeral services will be held Friday, March 7^th at 10:30am at the Tyson United Methodist Church with Rev. James Byerly officiating. Burial will be in the Benham Cemetery. Visitation will be Thursday from 4pm to 9pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles and from 9:30am until time of services Friday at the church. Memorials may be given to the Tyson United Methodist Church or the Benham Cemetery in care of the funeral home.

Shirley Disbro, 74, of Versailles passed away Saturday, March 1, 2008 at the Jennings Health Care Center in North Vernon. She was born in Indianapolis on August 12, 1933 the daughter of Harley and Hilda Scalf Spann. She was married to Arthur Disbro, Jr. on June 16, 1949 and he preceded her in death in 1970. Survivors include one son Terry Disbro of Bedford; one daughter Bonnie Ann Welker of North Vernon; 5 grandchildren, 6 great-grandchildren, and 2 great great grandchildren; three sisters, Mary Lowder of Smyrna, Georgia, Kay Spann of Davies, Florida, and Joan Maydak of Homestead, Florida. She was also preceded in death by her parents, daughter Connie Jean Disbro, her granddaughter Traci Lovins, three brothers, and one sister. Mrs. Disbro was a member of the Tanglewood Baptist Church. She was a homemaker and had provided home health care for many elderly in the community. Funeral services will be held Wednesday, March 5^th at 11am at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Rev. Becky Pohle of the Tanglewood Baptist Church officiating. Burial will be in the Tanglewood Cemetery. Visitation will be Wednesday from 10am until time of services. Memorials may be given to the Tanglewood Cemetery or the Hospice of South Central Indiana in care of the funeral home.

Michael Huffmeyer, 42, of Osgood passed away Tuesday, February 26^th, 2008 at his residence. He was born in Greensburg on October 12^th, 1965 the son of Norman and Alice Bodenburg Huffmeyer and his mother survives. He was married to Angie Thayer on April 17^th, 1993 and she survives. Other survivors include one son, Spencer and one daughter, Shelbie, both at home; his in-laws, Doug and Jerri Thayer of Osgood, two brothers, Doug and Susie and Gary and Donna, one sister; Cindy and Larry Menkedick. Mr. Huffmeyer was a 1984 graduate of Jac-Cen-Del High School. He was employed for more than ten years at Stones Farm Service in Greensburg where he worked as Mechanic. He was a member of the St. John’s Lutheran Church in Napoleon. Funeral services will be held at 10am Friday, February 29^th at the church with Rev. Gary Groth and Rev. Don Buck officiating. Burial will be in the St. John’s Lutheran Cemetery in Napoleon. Visitation will be Thursday from 5pm to 8pm. Memorials may be given to the Huffmeyer Children Education Fund, Napoleon Vol. Fire Department and the St. John’s Lutheran Church in care of the funeral home.

John E. Lohrum, 76, of Versailles passed away Wednesday, February 20, 2008 at the Good Samaritan Hospital in Cincinnati. He was born near Elrod on January 16, 1932 the son of Albert and Eunice Elrod Lohrum. He was married to Frances M. Hankins on June 22, 1951 and she survives. Other survivors include two sons, Johnnie (Helen) Lohrum and Ronnie (Linda) Lohrum both of Osgood; two daughters, Nina Mae (Ron) McGill of Montgomery, Indiana and Rebecca (Doug) Hisel of Lexington, Kentucky; two brothers, Vic Lohrum and Carroll (Judy) Lohrum both of Elrod; two sisters, Linda (Merrill) Bruce of Versailles and Alice (Donny) Mathias of Dillsboro; 14 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother Albert (Red) Lohrum. Mr. Lohrum was a 1950 graduate of Versailles High School. He was a 36 year employee of Texas Gas where he worked as an A operator and also a clerk. He was a member of the Versailles First Southern Baptist Church. Funeral services will be held at 11am Saturday, February 23^rd at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Rev. Carter Corbey officiating. Burial will be in the Grandview Memorial Garden near Madison. Visitation will be Friday from 5pm to 8pm. Memorials may be given to the food pantry of the Hopewell Baptist Church in care of the funeral home.

W. Myrle Rodgers, 88, of Versailles passed away Thursday, February 7, 2008 at Ripley Crossing in Milan. She was born at Williamstown, Kentucky on March 25, 1919 the daughter of Jesse and Alice Smith Jacobs. She was married to Vincent Rodgers on September 1, 1936 and he preceded her in death on November 7, 1980. Survivors include two sons, Ted (Mary Ann) Rodgers of Dillsboro and David (Faye) Rodgers of Madison; four daughters, Ruth Ann (Phillip) Powell of Greensburg, June Skeen of Milan, Faye (Danny) Creigmile of Versailles, and Linda (Ronald) Cunningham of Aurora; 22 grandchildren, 41 great-grandchildren, and 14 great-great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, her son Andy, daughter Myrtle Sue, two grandchildren, five brothers, and three sisters. Mrs. Rodgers was a member of the Versailles Wesleyan Church. She was a former employee of the Delaney Wood Heel Factory, US Shoe, Aurora Casket Company, and had been a cook at the Big Wheel Truck Stop near Elrod. For several years she and her husband operated the “Rocking R” ranch at their home near Elrod where they hosted several horse shows. Funeral services will be held Monday, February 11^th at 10:30am at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Dale Day and Rev. Garland Rudd officiating. Burial will be in the Cliff Hill Cemetery at Versailles. Visitation will be Sunday from 2pm to 5pm. Memorials may be given to the Versailles Church of Christ or the Cliff Hill Cemetery in care of the funeral home.

Mary Lou Stevenson, 64, of Westport passed away Monday, February 4, 2008 at the Columbus Regional Hospital. She was born at Batesville on July 17, 1943 the daughter of Willard and Lillie Mae Baker Rose. She was married to J. B. (Jim) Stevenson on February 27, 1970 and he survives. Other survivors include two sons, James Lattire of Columbus and William Clay Stevenson of Milroy; one daughter Karla Marie Howard and her husband Mark of Athens, Tennessee; two step-sons, Gwen Stevenson and his wife Sharon of Munsfordville, Kentucky and Jamie Stevenson of Moorefield; One step-daughter, Connie Purdum of Denver, Colorado; six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren; one sister Christine Asche of Deleware. She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother Bill Rose. Mrs. Stevenson was a homemaker and a member of the Milan United Methodist Church. She was a 1961 graduate of Jac-Cen-Del High School. Funeral services will be held Thursday, February 7^th at 11am at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Rev. Roy Lambert of the New Day Community Church in Columbus officiating. Burial will be in the Adams Lutheran Cemetery near Batesville. Visitation will be Thursday from 10am until time of services. Memorials may be given to the National Kidney Foundation in care of the funeral home.

Deborah A. Young, 52, of Osgood passed away Friday, February 1, 2008 at her home. She was born at Greensburg on January 22, 1956 the daughter of Wallace and Betty Dugle Shafer. She was married to Dale Young on September 18, 1976 and he survives. Other survivors include three daughters, Lisa (Steve) Ruble of Connersville, Melissa (Barry) Pavy of Greensburg, and Teresa Young of Osgood; grandchildren Vincent and Elizabeth Pavy, Devin, Ashley, Sara, and Carmen Ruble, and Stephanie Young; one brother, David (Judy) Shafer of Greensburg; two sisters, Pamela (Jerry) Keller and Penny (Harry) Clift both of Greensburg; her father and mother-in-law Alfred and Rita Young of Osgood. Mrs. Young was a 32 year employee of Delta Faucet in Greensburg, retiring in 2007. She was a member of St. John’s Catholic Church in Osgood. Mass of Christian Burial will be held Tuesday, February 5^th at 10am at St. John’s with Father Shawn Whittington officiating. Burial will be in St. Maurice’s Cemetery in Napoleon. Visitation will be held Monday from 5pm to 8pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Rosary services at 8pm. Memorials may be given to St. John’s Catholic Church or the Decatur County Hospice in care of the funeral home.

David “Pete” Myers, 84, of Greenwood passed away Monday, January 14, 2008 at the Johnson County Memorial Hospital in Franklin. He was born at New Marion on December 17, 1923 the son of Rufus and Lilla Brown Myers. He was married to Bertie Lou Cole on August 31, 1946 and she survives. Other survivors include one son, Carlos (Patricia) Myers of Greenwood; one daughter, Delora Lynn Fox of Linwood, North Carolina; 6 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren; two brothers, Russell Myers of Evansville and Charles Myers of Osgood; two sisters, Nettie Grigsby of Versailles and Rosie Burress of New Marion. He was preceded in death by his parents, and his sisters Mabel Sexton, Betty Kieffer, Leah Swinney, and Mary Jo Lauber. Mr. Myers retired in 1985 after 40 years as a machinist with Mead Containers in Norwood, Ohio. He was an Army veteran of WWII where served with the 100^th Chemical Mortar Battalion as a truck driver, hauling supplies, ammunition, and personnel into combat zones. Mr. Myers attended the Calvary Baptist Church in Greenwood and was a member of the Versailles American Legion. He enjoyed his grandchildren and motor sports. Funeral services will be held Saturday, January 19^th at 10:30am at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Rev. Matthew Gibbs officiating. Burial will be in the New Marion Cemetery with military graveside rites by the Versailles American Legion. Visitation will be Friday from 5pm to 8pm. Memorials may be given to the New Marion Cemetery in care of the funeral home.

Purnia M Francis, 88, of Versailles passed away Wednesday, January 9, 2008 at the Kings Daughters Hospital in Madison. She was born at Whitesburg in Letcher County, Kentucky on February 18, 1919 the daughter of Arthur and Maude Taylor Sergent. She was married to John Francis on February 9, 1942 and he preceded her in death on February 9, 1988. Survivors include one son Fred (Candy) Francis of Elizabethtown; two daughters, Hazel (Dennis) Lemen of Zionsville and Nancy (Lee) Crocker of Waverly, Ohio; seven grandchildren, Natalie (Jerry) Gilpin of Versailles, Christopher Crocker of Columbus, Ohio, Elizabeth Crocker of Waverly, Ohio, Nicholas (Amy) Lemen of Indianapolis, Jeff Lemen of Palm Desert, California, and Tony Francis and Kylie Francis both of Elizabethtown; four great-grandchildren, and one great-great grandchild; one brother Willis Sergent of Paris Crossing; one sister, Mattie Bates of Sellersburg. She was also preceded in death by her parents, brothers Benton, Andrew, and Paris Sergent, and her sister Alia Fields. Mrs. Francis was a homemaker. She was a member of the Versailles Baptist Church where she participated in the Ruth Browne Circle. She was also a member of the Lamplighters Home Ec Club and was a volunteer with the Ripley County Chapter of the Red Cross and with the American Heart Association. Her hobbies included her grandchildren, quilting, and sewing. Funeral services will be held at 11am Saturday at the Versailles Baptist Church with Rev. Mark Walker officiating. Burial will be in the Grandview Memorial Garden at Madison. Visitation will be Friday 5 pm till 8 pm at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles. Memorials may be given to the Versailles Baptist Church Music Fund.

Mildred Rork, 82, of Versailles, formerly of Osgood, passed away Wednesday, January 2, 2008 at the Margaret Mary Hospital in Batesville. She was born at North Vernon on October 1, 1925 the daughter of Adolphus and Lydia Murphy Nealis. She was married to Jesse Rork on August 15, 1942 and he preceded her in death on December 27, 1986. Survivors include two sons, Gene (Judy) Rork of Versailles and Rick (Suzanne) Rork of Litchfield, Illinois; one daughter Rachel Mink of Fresno, Texas; 6 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. She was also preceded in death by her parents, daughter Carolyn Jean Rork, granddaughter Michelle Richter, her sister Frances Brooks, and her brother Harold Nealis. Mrs. Rork was a homemaker and enjoyed IU basketball. Funeral services will be held Saturday, January 5^th at 11am at the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles with Dale Day officiating. Burial will be in the Greendale Cemetery in Osgood. Visitation will be Friday from 5pm to 8pm. Memorials may be given to Rescue 69 in care of the funeral home.

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